Discretionary Benefits

A company providing products and services needs its human resources for its operations and directions. This is why human resources practitioners are always looking for ways to make sure that employees are rewarded amply for their performance while at the same time ensuring that the status of the company finances is not jeopardized.The government protects the rights of employees for commensurate salary and compensation. This is why employees have the right to join a trade union and negotiate with employees about their salary and benefits. It is in the interest of businesses to deal with their employees in a fair and just manner. Otherwise, operations would be compromised. After all, an unhappy workforce would also lead to less productivity and efficiency. In addition to the government-sanctioned salary and compensation scheme, there are also discretionary benefits that the company will have to decide if they will provide to the employees.Employee BenefitsThe benefits of employees may vary from employer to employer. They are non-cash benefits that employees enjoy during their term with the company on top of their salaries or wages. The most common forms of benefits are group insurance for life, dental or health; disability income protection, daycare, sick leave, vacation leaves, retirement benefits, profit sharing, stock option, educational funding and tuition reimbursement among others. These benefits are either provided by the employer or they are paid for by the employer. Employers provide these benefits to make the employees more economically secure.There are also other benefits that are left to the discretion of the employers. This may include providing company car, leisure activities and outdoor meetings, food and transportation allowance, stationery and more. There are several determinants and factors that companies consider when providing discretionary benefits. If they decide that they will provide discretionary benefits, they also need to establish what types of benefits they can offer without compromising the financial situation of the company.In the United States, these employee benefits come in the form of relocation assistance, vision and dental plans, health care for dependents, pension plans, insurance, child care benefits, legal assistance, transportation benefits, discounts for shopping and resort accommodations, as well as wellness programs. There may also be fringe benefits offered to employees. If this is the case, such benefits may be excluded from the total annual income of the employee, which means greater savings on income tax. Fringe benefits also tend to be seen as a cost to the company for keeping their employees within the company.The Importance of Non-wage BenefitsIn the early twentieth century, employees were not given any benefits beyond their salaries. With the economic developments in the United States such as the Great Depression and the World War II, the government and labor unions worked together in brin ging about non-wage benefits for the workers. Non-wage benefits have grown in the past decades and now accounts for 30% of the total labor costs of This trend helped create a workplace and organizational culture that valued employees more and gave them what they needed (Marshall, 2003).Benefits given to employees are usually tax-deductible to the employer and are not taxable to employees. The exception would be the benefits for executives with access to benefits with very high amounts. In some cases, corporations in America may also offer the employee a set of benefits to choose from and the employee will choose which of the benefits will he avail of. This provides a flexible choice for the employee who may wish one type of benefit over another. The difficulty of implementing this, however, is that if employees chose different types of benefits, record-keeping would be more complicated.The benefits for employees may come in three forms (Martocchio, 2005).(1) One is the protection pr ograms, which helps employees be protected from any illness and ensure their physical and economic security.(2) Benefits may also fall under the pay for time not worked for, which includes vacation and sick leaves, as well as maternity and paternity leaves. Some companies even offer to pay the employees at the end of the year if they chose not to use up all of their leaves.(3) Lastly, there are also services, wherein the company offers to provide various services to the employees.Protection ProgramsThe income of employees is protected by the company in the form of disability insurance, life insurance and pension programs. Through this, the employees may feel economically secure and the assurance that part of the money provided by their employers is invested into their future. In case, they are declared as no longer fit to work, or that they may befall accidents directly or indirectly related to work and if they choose to retire, they are covered by the protection policies of the com pany.Health Protection is also an important aspect of protection programs. This may include health and dental insurance, enrolment into Health Maintenance Organizations or Preferred Provider Organizations, or self-funded plans. Pension plans are also important in ensuring the peace of mind of employees. This program is usually participated in by both employer and the employee. If and when the employee becomes unable to perform his or her job because of disability, the company cannot terminate his employment right away. Both short-term and long-term disabilities are considered by the employer (Martocchio, 2005).Health care programs for employees usually include fee-for-service, managed care, point of service and customer-driven health care. The cost of hospitalization is usually covered together with doctor’s fees, and other related expenses. If the employee pays own money, there is also a provision for reimbursement up to a certain amount. For some employers, HMOs may be a mo re or less costly approach because these are prepaid services. PPO’s are being used by other companies because there is no prepaid service and the company pays for the actual fees related to the health care of an employee. Furthermore, physicians, clinics and hospitals must meet quality standards for them to be recommended.The introduction of flexible benefits for the employees can lead to a higher level of job satisfaction, which can also help improve the productivity and efficiency of the company (Barber, Dunham & Formisano, 2006). When employees feel that they are cared for by the company they are serving, they tend to appreciate that and they will in turn do their best in performing their jobs (Belous, 1989).Paid Time OffAn important aspect of non-wage benefits now is providing paid time off to workers. This helps maintain work-life balance among employees because their domestic lives also have an impact to their performance of their jobs. If employees were too loyal to t heir jobs at the expense of their family, they might not be able to perform effectively. Stress would settle in and a previous high performer may crumble under the weight of such stress (Kossek & Lambert, 2005).The number of paid absences or leaves may be determined through the collective bargaining agreement between the labor union and management. When this has been settled, the employees then have to follow certain rules and procedures in the company to avail of this benefit. Pregnant women who want to give birth to their babies and nurse them are also given maternity leave of absence while a father whose wife is pregnant may also apply for a paternity leave. These schemes help communicate to the employee that their own personal lives are important too and that the company is not only after the services that they can render.Paid time off also helps the members of an organization to redefine themselves and their connection with the company and align their priorities and thoughts to the organization. Hence, it helps them take a break and think of what the work means to them (Ford & Locke, 2002). With a paid time off, the employees may have more time for themselves, for replenishing lost energies due to work and pause for a while and think about their jobs and how they can help contribute to the company for its growth and improvement.ServicesSome companies also realize that they need to provide services to employees so that they will not have to pay for such services outside of the company. As such, the company can choose to provide such services for the convenience of employees and minimal distractions to the way they perform their duties.These services may be in the form of family assistance programs, or the company can also assist in the education of an employee or the dependents of an employee. When moving and relocating, an organization may also bear the costs of moving, especially if such move is directly related to the job performed by the employee. Anot her popular service being offered by organizations is wellness program. The employees may enroll in a gym or a fitness class for free or for a discount courtesy of the organization.Such wellness programs can help ensure that the employees are physically fit. This can help prevent incidences of heart attacks, hypertension and stress-related sickness. In the long run, this can reduce the health care costs of an organization. What is needed, however, is strong implementation and encouragement for employees to participate in such wellness program (Gebhardt & Crump, 1990).The convenience that employees will experience through the services being offered by the company will contribute to efficiency and savings in time and resources. Employees will also generate a stronger appreciation for the company and will foster a stronger sense of company loyalty in employees.Laws and Legislations Concerning Employee BenefitsThere are three major legislations governing the benefits of employees and th e responsibilities of the employers: The Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) of 1974; Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) of 1985; and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).ERISA establishes the minimum standards and requirements of pension plans in the private sector. In addition to this, it also regulates the fringe benefits that employees receive such as disability insurance, medical and life insurance and most importantly, the pension of employees. The Act also monitors the reporting and disclosure of employers concerning such fringe benefits as well as the funding and fiduciary responsibilities of both employers and employees.COBRA, on the other hand, prescribes that health care coverage be extended to 36 months. However, the cost may be as high as 102% of the premium of the insurance. If employers do not comply with this, the law also prescribes the penalty. Companies with less 20 employees, however, are exempted from COBRA, together with the federal government and churches.Lastly, HIPAA guarantees the health coverage of all employees. Should there be pre-existing conditions, HIPAA prescribes appropriate action and handling. Health information and privacy are also important concerns; that is the reason why HIPAA regulates the transfer, the disclosure and the use of information given to health care practitioners for the purposes of health care delivery. HIPAA, however, has been a cause of contention regarding the responsible use of health care information (Wilson, 2006). Yet, it still helps ensure the protection of the rights of both employees and employers. These three legislations help define the rights of workers for their benefits and the responsibilities of employers to their employees. Non-compliance is punishable by the laws.ConclusionWith the increasing competition and globalization of the business environment, so will the needs and concerns of employees change. More and more demands and skills are needed. In addition to this, companies are hard put to retain their best employees because of the intense competition for excellent employees. As such, offering employee benefits will also change.Human resource personnel and the management need to device effective compensation and benefits scheme so as to attract the best and the brightest workers and retain the existing ones. The main concern, however, is making the employees secure physically and economically. If this were ensured, then they can perform their jobs better and they can contribute to the overall growth of the organization (Rosenbloom, 2001). By providing the three different types of benefits, employees can cultivate a deeper sense of company loyalty, which will redound to better employee retention and organizational performance. As the challenges of the workplace are addressed, the employers and the employee will enjoy better relationship and better organizational performance.

In India, the Micro and Small Enterprises Essay

It has been our commitment to develop a strong and vibrant SMEs segment that acts as the backbone of India’s industrial sector. SMERA has been contributing to this goal by providing ratings to these firms, to enable their sustained and vibrant growth. SMERA recognises this potential of the SME segment and the benefits it holds for our nation. It is in this context SMERA, jointly with Dun & Bradstreet India, is proud to launch the publication series, Emerging SMEs of India. The high fragmented nature of the SME segment makes availability of information difficult. A one-point reference document listing SMEs was imperative at this juncture. We hope to fulfil this long felt need. The publication has attempted to provide critical information on 370 companies and provide a concise profile of their activities. It aims to bring out the best SMEs and project them before domestic corporates outsourcing their needs to SMEs and also potential importers on the lookout for reliable SMEs to source their requirements. The current endeavour is an effort to fill the void and provide Indian SMEs a platform where they can interact, learn and do networking with stakeholders in associated events together with brand building. We are sure that this publication will benefit many individuals, banks, corporates, government institutions and agencies that provide support and promote the SMEs. Through this pioneering initiative, SMERA re-dedicates itself to serving the small and medium enterprises of India. | The Ministry of Small Scale Industries (SSI) is a defunct Indian government ministry. It was merged with the Ministry of Agro and Rural Industries to form the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises. The ministry was tasked with the promotion of micro and small enterprises (MSEs). The Ministry of Small Scale Industries and Agro and Rural Industries (SSI&ARI) was created in October 1999. In September 2001, the ministry was split into the Ministry of Small Scale Industries (SSI) and the Ministry of Agro and Rural Industries (ARI).

Cloudstreet Essay

Cloudstreet: Religion and Spirituality | A Novel by Tim Winton| â€Å"From separate catastrophes, two rural families flee to the city and find themselves sharing a great, breathing, shuddering joint called Cloudstreet, where they begin their lives again from scratch. For twenty years they roister and rankle, laugh and curse until the roof over their heads becomes a home for their hearts.† (Winton, 1991) Tim Winton’s critically acclaimed novel, Cloudstreet is a masterful tale of love, meaning and heartbreaking tragedy that speaks strongly of a post war Australian society that was essentially rebuilding itself after years of political upheaval and financial struggle. Good Morning/Afternoon Ladies and Gentleman. I am a representative of the National English Curriculum board and today I am here to demonstrate to you how Cloudstreet is authentic and believable, and as Marieke Hardy suggests: â€Å"It is Australian. Reading it felt like coming home.† Throughout Cloudstreet, there are numerous concepts that portray the Australian cultural identity; and the theme of religion and spirituality is especially prominent and appealing. The concept of luck, Aboriginal spirituality, and the search for the meaning of life, are all Australian ideas that Winton expertly portrays. Spirituality can be defined as â€Å"a concern for that which is unseen or intangible; as opposed to physical or mundane.† (Greenberg, 2008) It encourages a sense of peace and purpose within an individual and promotes a feeling of belonging. Additionally, religion can be defined as â€Å"the belief in, and worship of a superhuman controlling power.† (Religion) Both concepts are widely integrated into the core of the novel and are depicted through the Australian notion of luck. Luck, which some would argue has long been etched into the Australian consciousness as a common working class superstition, is, whether th ey are conscious of it or not, a form of religion for both families. The Pickles family, most notably Sam, rely on the â€Å"shifty shadow of God† (p 12) to warn them about future events, while the Lamb’s simple game of â€Å"spinning the knife† (p 53) acts as their metaphorical life compass. â€Å"The Lucky Country† (Horne, 1964) is a phrase that originated from a book of the same name written in the 1960’s, and since then, has gained widespread popularity and thus, been attached to the Australian culture for a long time. Winton has  cleverly examined this historical background to incorporate an accurate facet of the Australian identity into the novel and its characters. Also related to the concept of luck, is the fact that after Fish drowns, Oriel, once a devoted and â€Å"god fearing† Christian, begins to question her faith and the reliability of believing in God. When Fish is resuscitated, but only â€Å"some of him comes back†, (p 32) both she and Lester are emotionally forced to abandon God and Christianity and instead, turn to luck, hard work and the idea that â€Å"life and death, was all there was,† (p 65) in order to endure their circumstances. This draws on the common â€Å"Aussie battler† tradition, of which a working class person overcame challenging situations through perseverance, faith and steadfast determination. In terms of the Australian cultural identity, Winton has again taken an important and recognized historical Australian idea and shaped it to evoke feelings of familiarity and intimacy between the readers and the characters of Cloudstreet. The frequent appearance of the â€Å"Blackfella† is yet another example of how the Australian cultural identity is portrayed through examination of Aboriginal Spirituality. However, in many scenes throughout the novel, the blackfella signifies both Christian and Aboriginal spirituality through allusion and comparison. For example, he is likened to Jesus by walking on water and again when he produces a never ending supply of wine and bread in Quick’s car. This comparison is particularly effective as it symbolises the â€Å"coming together† of Christianity and Aboriginality, which was a particularly delicate Australian issue during the time period of the novel, due to Aboriginal marginalisation and the rise of Christian ideals. Essentially, the Blackfella acts as a reminder of the original religion inherent to Australia and its development, during a time when social and political change was overtaking that of its native beliefs. The â€Å"Blackfella† also ac ts as the conscience of the characters when they have lost their way or their family unit is threatened. This can ultimately be seen when he leads Quick back to Cloudstreet after he runs away to the country, knowing that Quick feels secretly lost without his family, and needs them to feel fully alive. He also persuades Sam not the sell the house and states that â€Å"you shouldn’t break a place. Places are strong and important,† (p 406) referring to not only the house and its tragic Aboriginal history, but also to the fragile  families who live inside it. In doing so, he ensures that the families stay whole and together, which is an important and dominating religious value for Aboriginality and Christianity, both during the time period of the novel and in our modern Australian society. Consequently, the â€Å"Blackfella’s† role in Cloudstreet is a significant contribution to the novel’s relevancy to the Australian cultural identity. The Australian cultural identity is also illustrated in Cloudstreet through the spiritual symbolism and personification of the river, and its connection to the character’s search for the meaning of life. This is particularly significant for Quick Lamb, who, is spiritually linked to the river in a number of ways. The river acts as a place of peace, purpose and belonging for Quick. Connecting with his mother when they go prawning, glowing after fishing in the country, and most importantly, falling in love with Rose Pickles, are the most significant spiritually defining events that Quick experiences while on the river. Through realising just how symbolically important the river is to him, Quick finally understands the true meaning of his life, and gains a feeling of belonging that allows him to finally shed his self-degrading title of â€Å"the lost lamb.† (p 310) Australia is a country that values the water. Geographically, we are surrounded by it, with most of our population residing close to the shores. As a result of this, the water is seen as a common gathering place, from which one cannot easily escape nor regard as irrelevant to the Australian way of life. Winton has taken this idea and incorporated it into Cloudstreet, to emphasise and promote a relevant part of Australian culture. Finally, the river’s spiritual and religious connection to Fish Lamb is perhaps the most important concept of the novel. After Fish drowns and has his soul ripped into two separate pieces (spiritual fish and physical fish), the river that he so desperately longs for, essentially becomes his gateway to the spiritual world; to the place where he belongs. It is not until the end of the novel when Fish is finally free to reunite with the water that he is truly whole again. â€Å"I burst into the moon, sun and stars of who I really am. Being Fish Lamb. Perfectly. Always. Everyplace. Me.†(p 424) For many, water in Australia is culturally considered to be the blood of the country; a place of c leansing and rejuvenation. Likewise, for Fish, the river embodies the epitome of the spirit of Australia in the form of life giving water. Although his life was initially taken by the water, it is eventually returned to him when his physical self re-joins his spiritual self. In conclusion, Winton flawlessly encapsulates the cultural identity and spirit of Australia in Cloudstreet through symbolic representations of luck, Aboriginal spirituality and the search for the meaning of life. The characters’ connection with religion and spirituality resonates strongly with the reader and successfully evokes feelings of belonging and familiarity that confirms Cloudstreet is indeed a classic Australian novel. Bibliography Associates, R. Q. (2008, September 16). Ideology in Cloudstreet . Retrieved 2013, from www.englishcurriculum.com.au Cloudstreet Notes. (n.d.). Retrieved 2013, from Sydney Home Tutoring: http://www.sydneyhometutoring.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Details-Cloudstreet-notes.pdf. Dot Point Notes Cloudstreet. (n.d.). Retrieved 2013, from Sydney Home Tutoring : http://www.sydneyhometutoring.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Dot-Point-Notes-Cloudstreet.pdf. Greenberg, N. (2008, October 8). Retrieved 2013, from Can Spirituality Be Defined: http://notes.utk.edu/bio/unistudy.nsf/935c0d855156f9e08525738a006f2417/bdc83cd10e58d14a852573b00072525d Horne, D. (1964). The Lucky Country. Penguin Books Australia. Religion. (n.d.). Retrieved 2013, from Google Definitions: https://www.google.com.au/search?q=religion+definition Winton, T. (1991). Cloudstreet. McPhee Gribble.

Identify on a local or national level how terrorism is financed Research Paper

Identify on a local or national level how terrorism is financed - Research Paper Example Since contemporary age has witnessed large scale terrorism particularly in the wake of cold war between the USA and the former USSR and the advent of purported New World Order, which has divided the globe into different groups on the basis of religion, economic condition and geographical location. The 9/11 catastrophe has determined new dimensions of international relations, where different nations and societies declared their opponents as terrorists in the light of the attacks on WTC, New York. Though the intellectuals view the catastrophe as a nefarious act designed by the US intelligentsia to capture the resources existing in the Islamic world, the western world found the hand of Osama Ben Laden and his companions in the entire catastrophe, which looked for taking revenge of the American and Israeli atrocities on the Muslim population of various countries. Tarpley (2004) observes that 9/11 was an example of state-sponsored, false-flag, synthetic terrorism, and hereinafter called s ynthetic terrorism. Consequently, the Gulf based Al Qaeda was unanimously declared as the most notorious terrorist organization busy in challenging the very peace of the world. ... Somehow, it is also is a reality beyond suspicion that no corporate firm or organization intentionally provides any terrorist group with the financial support; rather, the planning cell of terrorist organizations manages to receive the same in the sacred name of religious institutions, humanity, health, education and other humanistic purposes; the same is applied on the anti US reactionary militant group Al Qaeda. Financial Action Task Force (2008) is of the view that terrorist financing requirements fall into two general areas: (1) funding specific terrorist operations, such as direct costs associated with specific operations and (2) broader organizational costs to develop and maintain an infrastructure of organizational support and to promote the ideology of a terrorist organization. Like all other militant groups, the organization under investigation also requires financing to run its administrative or structural as well as operational activities. The administrative activities inc lude the expenditures spent on the establishment of offices, staff recruitment, co-ordination with media, communication and propaganda activities and payments and salaries of staff members. They also include the payments of utility bills, sharing and exchanging of information and recruitment and hiring of the militants. Moreover, arrangement of residence, health and medical facilities related to the top leadership is also the part of administrative expenditures. While discussing the operational activities, allocation, appointment and placement of the militants is one of the most significant operational activities of the terrorist organization. Since Al Qaeda has to

Kiosk Technology paper Research Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Kiosk Technology - Research Paper Example Kiosk point-of-sale systems provide 24 x 7 availability to the customers where they can make transactions in an easy, user-friendly manner (Silicon Landmark, n.d.). The ease, with which transactions can be made, provides an important element towards an organization's ability to attract customers; as the customers look for user-friendly and always available systems that can take care of their needs. Kiosk promises to be the technological advancement that can take care of this need. In addition, kiosks provide customers with product information and interactive features that improves the overall image of the company in customers' minds. Kiosks are available in various types and for various purposes. Ranging from a simple cash register to a complex and integrated ATM (Automated Teller Machine), kiosks are believed to improve customer relationships, reduce headcounts for manual/ traditional operations, to take benefit of technology boom, to achieve accuracy and efficiency in operations and to improve customers' perception about the company by providing various marketing and product/ services information on the kiosk terminals. However, as yet no study has been conducted to verify the above claims of kiosk vendors. Whitech Solution (n.d.) has explained the process through which the customers are relieved from standing in the queue for getting a product or service; rather they can use the self service feature that is provided by the kiosk system at POS sites to reduce the response time that is otherwise on a higher side in traditional systems. The kiosk software communicates directly with organization's database systems from where it fetches information to the customer at the kiosk site. 1.2 Implementing a Kiosk at POS A company needs to adopt an organized approach for implementing a kiosk system at its POS sites. This strategic IT decision should be taken after careful analysis of costs and the perceived expected benefits of the implementation. The site, technology, type of kiosk to implement the hardware and software requirements, the vendors and strategic partners for the implementation are needed to be identified well before the actual implementation gets underway. As with any strategic IT implementation, the Return On Investment (ROI) must be calculated for this decision as well. However, since a number of qualitative factors are involved in this scenario, it is relatively a bit difficult to do a quantitative analysis to determine the degree of effectiveness and efficiency that a kiosk will provide to the business. This inherent limitation requires the organization to apply a focused effort to carefully examine and evaluate different criteria that it believes will have an impact on the overall implementation. 1.3 Managing the Change Although it is believed that kiosks add value to the business, yet the implementation needs to be monitored and supervised. The importance of using the right technology for the business can not be undermined; however, Mitra (2007) has pointed out the importance of employees' and customers' support towards introduction of new technology.

Oracy in Teaching Maths and Science Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Oracy in Teaching Maths and Science - Essay Example The teachers use different strategies to provide opportunities to allow different types of discussions. Spoken language skills need to be developed in all subject areas, as different curriculum areas require different speaking and listening skills. There are different aspects that need to be observed relating to the different processes involved in talking, thinking and interthinking. For example, in assessing a child's ability to analyse a problem, his or her skills at speculating, questioning and hypothesising have to be observed. In assessing a child's ability to communicate, his or her skills at describing, explaining and clarifying have to be observed. This requires that the teacher observe a set of pupils of just two or three per session so that an appropriate observation of skills and a proper planning of talk experiences can be made. It is useful to involve pupils in the planning process so that they can participate in discussions as to what skills are needed in different area s such as math problem-solving, science experiments, etc., and the different kinds of talk, the outcomes and the resources available. Children should be made to work in different groups, playing diverse roles, so that stereotyping can be avoided and their different skills can be observed. Participation in diverse groups helps the children understand the functioning of group dynamics and the benefits of team work. Lalljee cites the example of 6-year-old children working in pairs for producing a free form class poem where the discussions of their ideas inspired them enough to produce an illustrated booklet which was read with enthusiasm by them (Lalljee 1998, p.6). Encouraging students to make suggestions on problems and ideas allow them speaking and listening space within the curriculum. Development of problem-solving skills According to the National Curriculum, teachers are expected to provide pupils opportunities to develop seven common requirements - Curriculum Cymreig, Communication Skills, Mathematical Skills, Information Technology Skills, Problem-solving Skills, Creative Skills, Personal and Social Education - through their study of the National Curriculum subjects (Common requirements n.d.). The Education Act of 2002 stipulates that a balanced and broadly-based curriculum should prepare pupils for the "opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of later life" (Skills framework 2007, p.2). Future Skills Wales 2003 Generic Skills Survey reports that of skills gaps reported by employers, lack of IT skills is the most common problem "followed by communication skillsshowing initiative, problem solving and ability to learn" (cited in Skills framework 2007, p.2). The skills framework developed for oracy moves on a continuum of different levels and stages for developing and presenting information an d ideas. The problem-solving skills in oracy are developed through several key stages. For developing oracy, the first key stage involves using talk to develop thinking by exploring, developing and clarifying ideas, predicting outcomes and discussing possibilities. The second stage involves talking for a range of purposes, including planning, predicting and investigating. The third stage involves t

Management Information Systems Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

Management Information Systems - Essay Example These include expert system, decision support systems, and executive information systems (Laudon & Jane 12). 1. The changes of information system I learnt that the field that covers the general information systems and changes in the management theories, processes, models, and emphasis. It expounds on problem solving as well as strategies that deal with the business. Information system is bringing about increasingly changes in people’s lives. This includes relationships, decision making, data collection, and communication. IT change leads to innovation, thus new business services and models. The leaders in different organization need to understand the impacts resulting from changes within the organization. Organizations have to also examine their performance, processes, and strategies in order to identify the changes within their organizations. This concept of change management is gaining attention among organizations and human behavior, operation management, business administr ation, and information systems. Technological advancements as well as, business improvements are essential in modern societies, and finding effective strategies to manage processes of change (Laudon & Jane 33). 2. Information Systems and Organizations We also learnt higher education institution is working hard to ensure that information technologies are effective in al spheres of life. This is this through ensuring efficient information system and operation in organization. They are doing this by effecting the eve of education. All graduates currently have the basic knowledge concerning the field; thus organizations can run effectively with the adequacy in operations and systems. On the other hand, processes within organizations are proceeding at high speed thus increasing the output together with the efficiency. Security has also increased thus expanding the reach of the organizations. This is because the organizations can expand confidently. The above is one of the key items that have been brought about by information systems. 3. Information, Management, and Decision Making I learnt that information system also facilitates decision making. This is because it comes along with mechanisms which simply human labor. The role of management is to use their sense to make decisions. However, with information systems, programs that run and facilitates their role. I therefore, appreciate the innovations behind information systems. 4. The Strategic Role of Information Systems to businesses I have learnt that Information Systems support business operations and processes. They assist managers in efficiently conducting their routine functions and activities properly. For example, different bank activities such as statement generation, withdrawal of money and account creation are efficient due to Information Systems. These systems help managers conduct such activities timely and accurately. Information Systems can also analyze data about information on customers (Laudon & J ane 63). Information Systems are useful in supporting strategic decision making that contributes to competitive advantage. Analysis of data by information systems provides critical information in decision-making. A company can decide to launch products or services in different locations basing their decision from results of analyzed data by Information Systems. The strategic role of Information Systems cannot be ignored since they help in planning a business’

Global Marketing Plan Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Global Marketing Plan - Research Paper Example How my decisions support the overall goal of growth and expansion? And last but not the least that How would I convince someone with the opposing perspective? In the end I would present my own views to support my decision and findings so far. Global Marketing Plan As I am supposed to present my thoughts regarding the globalization issue for the company, so in my views we should definitely move for globalization of our company. Since, our company has a wide range of clientele in Phoenix and Boston. People already know us here and our company is one of the most renowned furniture selling companies in town. Therefore, we would definitely have to take the opportunity like other companies and try to build the same repute in other locations as well. Moreover, I think we can do much better in other areas of the world as well. Therefore, in my point of view, it is the right time when we should expand our business internationally as well. Main reason behind this decision is to increase the ma rket share of our company. Moreover, if we expand our business in various regions across the globe then it will increase our sales and revenue as well. It will help our company to make its name in more locations, thus creating diversified customer range as well. One more factor to think about globalization is to search for more capable labor source from multiple areas of the world. This diversity will not only give us varied work force but also different minds to think for the benefit of the company in a better way. This is one way we can multiply our profits as well. As far as my rationale behind this decision is concerned, I stated already that globalization is truly good for our company at this moment. I don’t want to wait and let other competitors to take the advantage of this process. We have examples of many companies that have expanded their business to almost every side of the globe such as Coca-Cola, McDonalds, KFC, and so on. All these companies have not only gained lots of popularity around the world but also multiplied their revenues in a well-organized manner. If we lose the opportunity now, then some other company will lead us in this regard and gets all the benefits of globalization prior to us. When it comes to target any specific location then Europe is the best place to aim for. I have suggested Europe because we can gain a wide range of customers and competent workers from that place. Especially from Sweden we can get proficient workers and true furniture lovers from all over the continent. As per my studies people there are fond of good furniture. They like to give their homes a classy and trendy look. They follow trends and if we provide latest and chic styles designs of furniture then we can surely increase our clientele in that area. I have worked out enough to trace the location, where our company should target? The information I gathered using all my efforts, clearly shows that people in that area needs a good job with higher sa laries. We can easily target those areas to give them a good job and hence can upsurge our resources as well. It will also cut down our production cost because the salaries we are paying here in Boston and Phoenix are comparatively higher than the amount we would pay there. Not to compromise on the quality side, I would suggest that instead of making the furniture at other locations, we make them

People Republic of China Constitution Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

People Republic of China Constitution - Essay Example But the Chinese people had yet to fulfill their historical task of overthrowing imperialism and feudalism. After waging hard, protracted and tortuous struggles, armed and otherwise, the Chinese people of all nationalities led by the Communist Party of China with Chairman Mao Zedong as its leader ultimately, in 1949, overthrew the rule of imperialism, feudalism and bureaucrat capitalism, won the great victory of the new-democratic revolution and founded the People's Republic of China. Thereupon the Chinese people took state power into their own hands and became masters of the country. After the founding of the People's Republic, the transition of Chinese society from a new- democratic to a socialist society was effected step by step. The socialist transformation of the private ownership of the means of production was completed, the system of exploitation of man by man eliminated and the socialist system established. The people's democratic dictatorship led by the working class and based on the alliance of workers and peasants, which is in essence the dictatorship of the proletariat, has been consolidated and developed. The Chinese people and the Chinese People's Liberation Army have thwarted aggression, sabotage and armed provocations by imperialists and safeguarded China's national independence and security and strengthened its national defense. ... nternational economic relations in the service of Chinese development." (Potter, 2001) An independent and fairly comprehensive socialist system of industry has in the main been established. There has been a marked increase in agricultural production. Significant progress has been made in educational, scientific, cultural and other undertakings, and socialist ideological education has yielded noteworthy results. The living standards of the people have improved considerably. Both the victory of China's new-democratic revolution and the successes of its socialist cause have been achieved by the Chinese people of all nationalities under the leadership of the Communist Party of China and the guidance of Marxism-Leninism and Mao Zedong Thought, and by upholding truth, correcting errors and overcoming numerous difficulties and hardships. The People's Republic of China is a socialist state under the people's democratic dictatorship led by the working class and based on the alliance of workers and peasants. The socialist system is the basic system of the People's Republic of China. Sabotage of the socialist system by any organization or individual is prohibited. All power in the People's Republic of China belongs to the people. The organs through which the people exercise state power are the National People's Congress and the local people's congresses at different levels. The people administer state affairs and manage economic, cultural and social affairs through various channels and in various ways in accordance with the law. The state organs of the People's Republic of China apply the principle of democratic centralism. The National People's Congress and the local people's congresses at different levels are instituted through democratic election. They are responsible to

Project Implementation, Control, and Termination Paper Roofing Project Essay

Project Implementation, Control, and Termination Paper Roofing Project - Essay Example This will involve the planning and discussion about the project major steps and operations. In this report, I will provide a review and adjust the previously established constrains and plans. This report will present the detailed evaluation of the triple constraints and their proper settlement for the project working and handling. This project is initiated by the Adams family for the restoration of farmhouse and its roof. This farmhouse roof is a historical place and Adams family has decided to restore the project through the assistance of the Michigan Historical Society. Michigan Historical Society is an association that directs for the rehabilitation and restoration of the old places. Here this project report is aimed to provide a deep insight into the old farmhouse roof restoration project and its controlling. Adams family has started a project for the restoration of their old farmhouse and its roof. This project involves the Michigan Historical Society who has agreed to assist in maintaining the property upon completion of the restoration project. Michigan Historical Society is society that facilitates the better preservation of the old places. Michigan Historical Society will work with our development and construction team for the handling of this project. This section of the repot covers the basic reasons and aims that are established by the Adams family and Michigan Historical Society regarding the restoration of the farmhouse to its original splendor. They have established the main goal on the subject of the preserving old roof 80% to the authentic structural design. Successful completion of this project will allow the Adams family to appreciate family tradition and actively take part in their heritage now and in future years. This project will restore the farmhouse to its original splendor. This project will also preserve 80% of the authentic structural design of the old work on the farmhouse.

IT - Bluetooth Technology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

IT - Bluetooth Technology - Essay Example Development of Bluetooth technology Bluetooth technology is a key short-range communications technology or wireless protocol, which can be used to connect wide range of electronic devices including mobile phones, laptops, etc, when they are close to each other. After the connection is made, the technology can be used to securely transfer various types of files or data, and also can be used as a form of communication. â€Å"Bluetooth is a proprietary open wireless technology standard for exchanging data over short distances (using short wavelength radio transmissions) from fixed and mobile devices, creating personal area networks (PANs) with high levels of security.† (â€Å"Bluetooth†). Short wavelength radio transmission in the sense, the data to be sent is broken down into small parts, and then sent through number of bands, without any synchronization issues. That is, Bluetooth adopts a â€Å"radio technology called frequency-hopping spread spectrum, which chops up th e data being sent and transmits chunks of it on up to 79 bands (1 MHz each; centered from 2402 to 2480 MHz) in the range 2,400-2,483.5 MHz (allowing for guard bands).† (â€Å"Bluetooth†). This technology was first developed by the telecom company, Ericsson in the year 1994 with the main intent of developing a wireless technology that can be an alternative to the RS-232 cables. ... SIG only oversees the formulation of the various Bluetooth specifications and importantly manages the standards for the qualification program. That is, companies can market their electronic devices as a Bluetooth-enabled device only if they fulfill the standards set by the SIG. â€Å"Bluetooth is an open technology standard, meaning that anyone who joins the Bluetooth Special Interest Group and adheres to well-outlined standards can create Bluetooth devices.† (McClain). Since its establishment in 1998, the SIG has been modifying and upgrading its technology and the features associated with it, in order to facilitate faster and better performance. Starting from Bluetooth v1.0 and v1.0B, the versions have evolved over the years, with v4.0 being the latest one and it has high speed and low energy features. The speed is based on Wi-Fi and so it is optimum and its low energy feature can operate the devices for many months or even years using just a small coin-cell batteries. (†Å"Bluetooth 4.0†). With these advancements, the capabilities of the many electronic devices can be accentuated. More and more electronic devices are being introduced in the market, with advanced technologies and optimal features. The Bluetooth technologies and the related features are being incorporated in maximum of these devices. Because of that incorporation, the people using these devices are getting optimal benefits. Thus, it is important to study this key technology and how it can provide advantages over other wireless technologies. Comparison of IrDA and Bluetooth Infrared Technology functions with the aid of certain hardware incorporated with software, both of which will be used to send as well as receive data through

Thistles and Tall Nettles Essay Example for Free

Thistles and Tall Nettles Essay The poems Tall Nettles by Edward Thomas and Thistles by Ted Hughes contain similar yet different themes. Both of them contain not one but many themes of their own. The Tall Nettles contains a theme of abandonment, a theme of nature fighting back against man, and man-made objects, as well as the theme of inner beauty i. e. , beauty that is not obvious to the eye. The poet is showing that the plant is fierce, yet protective over a place that belongs to them, simply because no one else wants it. It portrays how the nettles have triumphed over man by covering the machines. Thomas shows this conquest over man in a positive light. It portrays the nettles as beautiful, yet they are not aesthetically pleasing. This seems to show that Thomas sees the inner beauty of the nettles; he portrays their resilience and strength. Thistles also contains the theme of nature fighting back against man as well as the theme of survival. Unlike in the previous poem, the thistles are fighting over land which is still desired by man. Hughes, unlike Thomas, portrays these battles in a negative light, and seems to portray the plants as the enemy. This poem is a lot more violent than the previous one, as it actually portrays the epic battle that the thistles fight to survive. Both these poems portray themes of nature fighting against man, and survival. Analysis of Thistles Thistles is a poem about survival and triumph. It portrays how thistles have to fight to stay alive, but they in fact conquer over their aggressors. In order to fully understand this one must analyze the poem stanza by stanza. In stanza 1 the very first word, Against, gives us the first clue to the plight of the thistle. It has many things which are against it, such as the rubber tongues of cows and the hoeing hands of men. The fact that the hoeing hands of men is used as an example of one of the thistles enemies, is ironic, because even though the men have hoes and mean to destroy, the thistles still survive. The use of spike in line 2 gives us a sharp, jagged image of artillery. Crackle in line 3 gives us this same effect. These war-like images are continued throughout the poem. The use of the word crackle gives us the idea that the thistle is tough, not gently opening, but crackling open, as if preparing for battle. In stanza two the poet introduces the idea of revenge. (Every one a revengeful burst) The poet uses the word burst to describe the purple exploded head of the thistle, and the spikes that protrude from this. The use of the word resurrection in line 2 supports the idea of the thistles never really dying. The grasped fistful of splintered weapons and Icelandic frost also refers to the head of the thistle, and how it appears to be like a hand that has grabbed a handful of weapons. The introduction of Icelandic frost brings in the first idea of the war between the Scots and the Vikings. Thrust up brings in the idea that the nettles are like the soldiers sent by nature to fight against man. In stanza two our idea of the thistles being sent by nature is continued. (From the underground stain of decayed Viking This is a reference to the Scots/ Vikings war again, but also a reference to the amazing ability of thistles to get nutrient from any soil, even using the nutrients of the dead body of a Viking. Another war-like image is apparent in the plume of blood referring to the plume of feathers traditionally worn by soldiers in a war. The final stanza begins in contrast to the other stanzas. These strong, unbeatable thistles are growing old and dying. They grow grey, describing how they age before death. But in the second line feud is used, describing how even though the thistle has died the war is not over. Their sons appear, ready to continue the battle over the land. They are stiff with weapons, making them seem unbeatable, almost over-laden with weapons. This poem is full of war-like images and references to historical events. It describes the way thistles never seem to die, and will keep fighting against man until they win. This poem is deeply emotional and metaphorical.

Types of Deposits and Bank Accounts

Types of Deposits and Bank Accounts Banks receive money from the public by way of deposits. The following types of deposits are usually received by banks: Current deposit Saving deposit Fixed deposit Recurring deposit Miscellaneous deposits Current Deposit Also called ‘demand deposit’, current deposit can be withdrawn by the depositor at any time by cheques. Businessmen generally open current accounts with banks. Current accounts do not carry any interest as the amount deposited in these accounts is repayable on demand without any restriction. Banks usually charge a small amount known as incidental charges on current deposit accounts depending on the number of transaction. HSBCs current account takes the hassle out of managing your daily finances. You wont need to rush around to pay your bills; simply arrange for direct debit payments or issue a cheque and mail it at your convenience. Whats more, youll have access to your account and a wide range of banking transactions, 24 hours a day, seven days a week with our ATM Cards. MCB make your everyday banking simple. It is also a perfect gateway to a world of products and services designed to meet your needs.MCB’s current account is like a swiss army knife: easily accessible, it comes with multiple features that are perfect for your daily banking needs like cheque books, overdraft facilities, credits cards, mobile banking and so on. Savings deposit/Savings Bank Accounts Savings deposit account is meant for individuals who wish to deposit small amounts out of their current income. A saving account can be opened with or without cheque book facility. There are restrictions on the withdrawls from this account. Savings account holders are also allowed to deposit cheques, drafts, dividend warrants, etc. drawn in their favour for collection by the bank. To open a savings account, it is necessary for the depositor to be introduced by a person having a current or savings account with the same bank. MCB ‘s retirement plan offer a comfortable retirement to old people. Start today by putting aside as little as Rs 1,000 each month in your Retirement Plan. This can help old person to better enjoy their lives peacefully without depending on others.MCB also offer educational plan by which it can offer a good future to your children. Education is key to your childrens future. But have you thought about the costs of higher studies? Start planning today by investing in our Education Plan. Planning your child’s future, with the Education Plan, you only have to contribute a monthly minimum amount of Rs500. Our financial experts will help you choose the investment funds that best suit your needs in our wide range of products. Barclays offer junior saving account. As a parent, you know its never too early for your child to learn to save. And it’s a better way to teach them with a fun, easy way – saving the junior way, enjoying high interest rates. Your child will be able to see his money grow faster, thanks to a higher interest rate than a normal savings account. Interest is calculated daily and credited half-yearly. Enjoy attractive interest rates as high as 1 months FD. Your Child is protected. MCB offers Junior 12-17. Teenagers have different expectations. Junior account 12-17 caters for their fast evolving needs while enabling you to save for their future and benefiting from: Fresh and rewarding Start saving with a minimum deposit of only Rs 500 Earn interest on your savings Let your child learn to manage money with a MCB Junior Card Register for MCB Refill and your child can reload mobile credits on the go (Emtel and Orange) Fixed deposit The term ‘Fixed deposit’ means deposit repayable after the expiry of a specified period. Since it is repayable only after a fixed period of time, which is to be determined at the time of opening of the account, it is also known as time deposit. Fixed deposits are most useful for a commercial bank. Since they are repayable only after a fixed period, the bank may invest these funds more profitably by lending at higher rates of interest and for relatively longer periods. The rate of interest on fixed deposits depends upon the period of deposits. The longer the period, the higher is the rate of interest offered. Barclays Bank- A Fixed Deposit Account can be a great way to save as it helps to remove the temptation to dig into your savings, all the while earning a higher rate of interest over a fixed term. As a Premier Banking customer you earn a significantly higher interest on your Fixed Deposits, with accounts available in both local and foreign currencies. With your Fixed Deposit Account you get: A fixed rate of return over an agreed period of 3 to 12 months calculated flat on the principal, Choice of account currency (SCR, GBP, EUR and USD) Minimal cost on breakage of the deposit before maturity You may apply for this account along with another applicant, where you may choose to have both parties be required to sign any instructions to debit the account or any of the parties sufficing for the transaction to be accepted. In addition, you may request for other parties to operate your Fixed Deposit Account on your behalf. We call such a nominated person an authorised signatory. To open a Fixed Deposit Account, you are required to have a current or savings account with us. Upon applying for your Fixed Deposit Account, you can provide us with instructions on how to manage the principal and interest in the account upon maturity of the deposit or provide the instructions when you receive your Renewal Notice. You may ask us to roll over the deposit plus interest at current rates, to roll over the deposit only and credit the interest your current or savings account, or to credit the principal plus interest to your current or savings account. While you are guaranteed a fixed interest on the principal, should you break your deposit prior to maturity, you will be charged a breakage fee and the pro-rated interest calculated based on the prevailing Instant Savings Account interest rate and the period over which the deposit was held. SBM Our term deposit gives you the option of placing your money for a fixed term, thereby earning a higher rate of interest. Features: Minimum deposit of Rs 50,000 Interest payable monthly, quarterly, half yearly or at maturity Interest paid to Current / Savings account (CASA) / by cheque Term Deposits offered for periods of 12, 24 and 36 month What happens if I want to withdraw the money prior to the maturity date? Floating Rate Deposit Encashment of deposit prior to maturity is at the discretion of the bank. Interest may be forfeited if funds are withdrawn within 3 months of date of deposit. A penalty of either 1% or the cost incurred by the Bank for replacement of the Deposit (whichever is higher) may be charged at the Bank’s discretion. Fixed Rate Deposit Encashment of deposit prior to maturity is at the discretion of the bank. In addition to 1% penalty, customer opting for fixed rate of interest will have to bear the cost of replacement of funds in case of premature encashment. The penalty to be levied for encashment of a fixed rate deposit will be determined at the time of encashment. The penalty will depend on the market rate prevailing on the date of encashment. Recurring Deposits Under this type of deposit, the depositor is required to deposit a fixed amount of money every month for a specific period of time. Each instalment may vary from Rs.5/- to Rs.500/- or more per month and the period of account may vary from 12 months to 10 years. After the completion of the specified period, the customer gets back all his deposits along with the cumulative interest accrued on the deposits. Miscellaneous Deposits Banks have introduced several deposit schemes to attract deposits from different types of people, like Home Construction deposit scheme, Sickness Benefit deposit scheme, Children Gift plan, Old age pension scheme, Mini deposit scheme, etc. ATM An Automated Teller Machine (ATM) is a computerized machine that permits bank customers to gain access to their accounts with a magnetically encoded plastic card and a code number. It enables the customers to perform several banking operations without the help of a teller, such as to withdraw cash, make deposits, pay bills, obtain bank statements, effect cash transfers. Advantages of ATM in Mauritius Get 24 hour access to your money Free of charge to any HSBC accountholder Saves time since no need to queue up at the Bank counter Withdraw or Deposit Cash Transfer Funds Balance Enquiries Banks ATM points in Mauritius MCB Around 91 SBM Around 44 HSBC Around 16 BARCLAYS Around 33

Cultural Policy in the UK

Cultural Policy in the UK CULTURAL POLICY IN THE UK: Mid-1960s to late 1980s Cultural Policy in the UK: Critical overview of the last 30 years MARCH 2010 In the last three decades (approximately 1980 to 2010), cultural policy in the UK has taken a generally questionable direction. Overall, cultural policy and practices of the past 30 years have been overwhelmed by new neo-liberal discourses and ideologies, namely: economic rationalism, monetarism, neo-conservatism, commodification of culture, managerialism and performativity. Examining each of these in turn, it becomes apparent that a market-driven, neo-liberal approach to UK cultural policy has largely failed in each of its stated aims: economic growth, artistic excellence, increased access to the arts, and social justice. The mid-1970s were a real turning point in terms of cultural policy, with broad policy changes occurring from this time on both within and without the cultural sector. In many ways, the earlier 1970s epitomised cultural and political concerns with the general welfare of the public, and some support of the arts for their own sake rather than as an instrument of broader political and social change. The early 1970s saw, in many ways, a political climate of idealism. Cultural policy of the time reflected this atmosphere. However, there were drastic political, cultural, and ideological changes made later in the 1970s which have, to a degree, continued to shape the cultural policy discourse of the next thirty years and up to the present day (Gray, 2007). In the cultural sector as a whole, Gray describes the development of what he calls instrumental policies (Gray, 2007, p.5) since the mid-1970s. By this term Gray describes the shift in cultural policy from an arms-length, distanced governm ental approach to the arts and culture; to a political interest in using the cultural sector as an instrument, or instruments, of social, economic, and political change. In the first decades of state patronage of the arts, the Arts Council saw itself not as a source of direction, not as a source of artistic policy, but as a kind of enabling body (Stevens, 1998: 10, quoted in Caust, 2003, p.52). By the late 1970s, however, this attitude on the part of the state had changed dramatically. Instead of standing back and simply allowing the arts to develop and flourish via generous state subsidy and support, many Western governments including that of the United Kingdom developed the ideology that they could and should instead expect outcomes for their investments (Caust, 2003, p. 52). The overwhelming shift to a market-based, market-driven ideology in terms of cultural policy has had many negative effects upon the arts themselves, and several tangentially-related areas of the social and political landscape. In the last thirty years, it is economic change which appears to have been the states prime concern in terms of cultural policy, despite public assertions to the contrary. Gray states that the ideological and organisational changes toward instrumental policy-making have had an effect upon what the state does, how it does it, and the justifications and reasons that have been put forward to explain them (Gray, 2007, p.5). The reforms that have taken place in the realm of cultural policy in the United Kingdom have been summarised by scholars as variously representing a mode of privatisation (Alexander and Rueschemeyer, 2005, pp. 71-4), or one of commodification (Gray, 2000). Privatisation concerns, variously, a heightened level of interventionism in the management and administration of public assets (Gray, 2007, p.5) by private entities or actors; or the sale of previously-nationalised state industries and assets to the private sphere. Commodification is a term used to describe wider ch anges in political actions and ideology, concerning the replacement of cultural value derived from its usefulness, to value derived from its exchangeability (Gray, 2007, p.5). Commodification results from an ideological shift within the state, and this can be seen as a driving force in cultural policy developments within the last thirty years. Despite government assertions that artistic excellence and broadened public access to the arts are prime concerns of the state, economic concerns are also often of perhaps overriding concern to the Thatcher, Major, Blair and Brown administrations which governed Britain between 1980 and 2010. Tony Blairs opening statement in the government publication Culture and Creativity: The Next Ten Years (____) makes the economic preoccupation of the government in relation to cultural policy quite explicit. Blair acknowledges a connection between creativity and production and then makes an economic justification for his governments investment in supporting creativity in its broadest sense (Caust, 2007, p. 55). With reference to both culture and creativity, Blair states: [t]hey also matter because creative talent will be crucial to our individual and national economic success in the economy of the future (Smith, 2001: 3; quoted in Caust, 2007, p.55). Economic Rationalism Economic rationalism is a term first coined in Australia with regards to economic policies and ideologies which favour privatisation of state industries, a free-market economy, economic deregulation, reduction of the welfare state, increased indirect taxation and lower direct taxation (Pusey, 1991). Such policies were particularly widespread in a global context during the 1980s and 1990s. The policies of Thatcherism provide an example of economic rationalism in action. The origins of the term economic rationalism were actually favourable, in describing market-oriented policies of various administrations in Australia, the UK and the US in the 1970s and 1980s (Pusey, 1991). In the 1990s, the term started to be used with an unfavourable tone, toward the Third Way policies of both the Australian Labour Party and the UK New Labour party of the 1990s. Both these parties initiated market-driven reforms within their political ideologies, which placed them closer to Thatcherite economic rationalism via increased emphasis upon the private sector in economic, political, and cultural arenas (Pusey, 1991). These were parties which had not traditionally placed a relatively great emphasis upon the free-market economy, and therefore the term economic rationalism has been used somewhat disparagingly to indicate that these parties have, to a degree, abandoned their historically leftist roots, when social justice and expansion of the welfare state took precedence over sheer capitalism. In terms of cultural policy, economic rationalism is evident throughout the 1980s and 1990s in the United Kingdom. Thatcherist policies in the 1980s placed unprecedented ideological and practical emphasis upon the free market, and in terms of cultural policy this translated to cuts in arts and education budgets, and the development of private-public partnership in cultural funding. The logical effect of such policies was that the arts, in particular, became increasingly monetised and reliant upon market and mass appeal in order to survive economically. The UK governments of the 1980s and 1990s placed great ideological and political emphasis upon the economic potential of the countrys cultural sector. Bennett (1995) views such economic potential as being used as a prime justification for state action and interventions within the cultural sector (p. 205-7). However, as Gray (2007) points out, this is not necessarily the same as seeing culture as a mechanism for economic regeneration (p. 16). The governments of the 1980s and 1990s appear to have sought to use various pretexts, including economic arguments, in order to justify their interventions in the sphere of cultural policy, however their true intentions most of the time were to stimulate broader economic growth through such cultural policies. As we shall see later, attempts at stimulating economic growth through cultural policy have, by and large, failed overall. Caust (2007) asserts that more recent government policy debates have been dominated by an economic paradigm (p.52). Arguments which focus upon the economic value of the arts have developed, and thus a political atmosphere is created in which the intrinsic value or worth that society may place upon the arts is trumped by the arts purely economic value. Economic rationalism, through its emphasis on the free market and upon the private sector, speeds the development of such an atmosphere, which permeated the UK cultural policy sector throughout the 1980s and 1990s. Although Causts discussion (2007) focuses on cultural policy in the Australian context, there are many parallels with UK cultural policy during the same time period. Caust describes a changing climate in which less emphasis came to be placed on the definition of art itself and upon value judgments of a particular art piece or art form by acknowledged experts.   Instead, market theory is emphasised, and increased importance is placed upon those art forms which can achieve the greatest commercial success. In the realm of cultural policy, such a change in the mode of arts valuation by the state leads to the desire to support arts activity which was commercial, exportable and cost-efficient (Caust, 2007, p.52). In the realm of cultural production, the natural result of such cultural policies is the emergence of mass cultural products which satisfy the market. Simon Cowell, and the massive, global Pop Idol and X Factor talent-show franchises he created, epitomises the result of two decades of economic rationalism. These programs, in which amateur singers compete in a televised, viewer-voted series, are vastly commercially successful and have been licensed in the US and many European and Latin American countries. Cowell has made a fortune, and it is typically a given that the winner of Pop Idol or The X Factor will have the Christmas number-one single in the UK (2009/2010 was an exception to this rule, when a social-media campaign deliberately pushed a reissued single by agit-rock group Rage Against The Machine to the top of the UK charts in a display of protest against the blandness and ubiquity of Cowells cover-song artists). While a huge success in economical terms Cowells franchises combine all the government-desired traits of exportability and mass-market appeal, while stimulating sales of music media in addition to generating signifi cant revenue via paid telephone voting and merchandise it could hardly be argued that the format of these shows stimulates artistic originality, experimentation, or musical development in any significant way.   The example above demonstrates that to give the market what it wants often leads to a lowest-common-denominator approach to cultural production and a bland stifling of the development of new and exciting art forms. Such effects of economic rationalism on cultural policy and therefore upon culture itself reflect Causts discussion of economic concerns and their effects on culture. As Caust states, such market-oriented cultural policy creates a compromising role for artists since serving the state as an economic generator is very different from taking risks artistically, or being innovative and creative generally. It could be argued this objective is little different from the expectations of a totalitarian state, in which its artists serve the states political aims. (Caust, 2007, p.54) Managerialism Prior to the late 1970s and early 1980s, governments had on the whole aimed to effect an arms-length approach in terms of arts management. One of the founding principles of the Arts Council itself was that it should be relatively independent of the government itself, and not directly under government control. Gray (2007) noted the general tendency of governments to adopt relatively indirect forms of involvement (p.11). Gray states that this role can be advantageous for governments, as they are not especially held accountable for the results of such policies implemented at arms-length: they can have some effect on the sector by producing general policies but, at the same time, they can avoid being held directly responsible or accountable for the specific policy choices that are then made on their behalf. (Gray, 2007, p.11) However, with the political, ideological, social and economic changes which took place when Thatcher was elected, the governments of the 1980s onwards adopted an increasingly managerialistic approach to the arts and cultural policy. Increasingly, the arts management implemented by successive administrations over the last three decades has been moved towards a new style of management that has been influenced by private sector models (in the form of mission statements and marketing, for example) (Gray, 2000, p. 112). It certainly follows logically that governments which prioritise capitalism and the free market would be attracted to the idea of imposing private-sector management models upon spheres they were hoping would become economically productive. Hence, successive governments have attempted to run the arts and cultural spheres, to some degree, as if they were private commercial enterprises. In many cases, this is a misunderstanding or misrepresentation of the inherent nature of m any areas of the arts. Generally, the start of managerialism in UK cultural policy can be seen during the reforms taking place under the label the New Public Management (NPM) (Gray, 2007, p.6). NPM emphasised several core concepts, which were put into action via UK state intervention in the cultural sphere. Under NPM, managers in the arts realm were empowered to make more decisions relating to their sphere of management; results were prioritised, and valued, over processes; managerial control was more generally decentralised; competition in terms of public service provision was actively encouraged; new emphasis was placed upon performance measurement; and management appointments now tended to be made through contracts rather than through seniority or hierarchy within the sector (Osborne and McLaughlin, 2002, p. 9; Pollitt, 2003a, pp. 27-8; Gray, 2007, p.6). Following the 1988 Ibbs Report, new managerial bodies were created by the government for example, the Executive Agencies (or, more formally, Non-Departmental Public Bodies) (Gray, 2007, p. 8). This led to a general decentralisation of government arts management, but also to issues regarding accountability, managerial responsibility and the relationship of elected politicians and appointed managers with the prime example being that of the clash between the then Home Secretary Michael Howard and the then head of the Prison Service, Derek Lewis. (Gray, 2007, p. 8) Local Strategic Partnerships and Regional Development Agencies were newly-instigated modes of arts management, which further emphasised both the decentralisation of government cultural policy during this period. Additionally, these agencies show evidence of overall managerialism towards the arts in that they demonstrate a devolution of power to local and regional arts managers. (Gray, 2007, p. 9) In later years, a somewhat different (modernizing) model of public management (Gray, 2007, p.6) was implemented, although the more general emphasis upon the concept of managerialism with respect to cultural policy did endure. Commodification of Culture In keeping with governmental emphasis upon the economy and the free market within the last three decades, there has followed an increasing commodification of culture. An obvious example of such commodification is enclosed within the phrases cultural industries and creative industries, which were hailed by New Labour in the 1990s and 2000s as a means of economic regeneration in the United Kingdom. Caust (2007) argues that the development of a view of cultural activity and production as an industry grew not only from the government, but also from the cultural producers themselves: When it became increasingly difficult in the early eighties to successfully argue the arts to government purely on the basis of the community welfare model, bureaucrats, practitioners and academics began the shift towards using a language that described the arts as an industry and developed the economic/cultural industry model. This led to the use of the terms cultural industries in Australia or in the United Kingdom, creative industries to describe all activities connected with the arts, as well as sectors far removed (Caust, 2007, p. 54) These cultural industries had been growing throughout the latter part of the twentieth century, aided by technological advances and global economic factors. In the northern hemisphere, populations were enjoying increased economic prosperity; leisure time was on the increase generally; television allowed mass cultural consumption in unprecedented fashion; and consumer electronics including audio and video equipment were becoming widely available and affordable (Hesmondhalgh Pratt, 2005, p. 3). By the early 1980s, the state was increasingly aware of these growing cultural industries both within the UKs own economy, and on a more global level. A path of increasing commodification of public policies was followed since the mid-1970s, with resultant changes in a broad range of cultural spaces. Ideologies prior to this mass commodification of culture had identified society as a whole as the primary intended beneficiary of government cultural policy. Increased commodification led to a shift, as the intended beneficiary of cultural activity and policy was now the individual consumer (Gray, 2007, p.14). Whereas cultural policy had previously been judged upon a broad range of criteria including social justice, access, and excellence; increasing commodification led to a narrowing of the criteria for judging cultural policy (ibid). Increased emphasis on the market value of cultural products and industries leads to an assessment of cultural policy in primarily, if not exclusively, economic terms. Again, this demonstrates a political preoccupation with the outcomes and outputs of cultural policy rather than the processes and inputs re lated to such policies, and a clear link between managerialism in cultural policy and the concomitant overall commodification of the culture produced under such a system. Performativity Just as the language and aims of commercial private industry were adopted for the cultural policy sphere via managerialism, economic realism, and the commodification of culture, so too the cultural sphere adopted measures and concerns regarding performance during the last three decades. Again, policies were judged on their results, their output and their products, and the economic success of cultural endeavour. In the realm of education, standardised performance tests have been increasingly introduced into the state schools, with the frequency, scope and range of educational tests increasingly greatly throughout the past thirty years. Likewise, in the sphere of cultural policy, tests of performance have also been increasingly implemented. These include Comprehensive Performance Assessments, and the Comprehensive Area Assessments replacing them in 2009, Best Value Indicators, Key Lines of Enquiry for Service Inspection, Local Area, Funding and Public Service Agreements, all of which p rovide explicit criteria against which service provision can be assessed (Gray, 2007, p. 8-9). The driving ideology behind such a raft of new tests to measure cultural and educational performance would appear to be a notion of accountability. The government wants to prove to an often sceptical public that its policies, whether in education or in culture, are working. Decentralisation of managerial power, and increased managerialism in cultural policy, provide a layer of accountability, or at the very least a scapegoat for failed or disappointing policies. Again, this move towards evidence-based policy-making and assessment reflects the belief of successive governments that the models that work for business can be applied to the cultural sphere. It is uncertain whether this is in fact correct. Culture does not function in the same way as manufacturing or other private business enterprises, and the outputs or achievements of the cultural industries and creative industries may be relatively intangible and ultimately difficult to measure with performance tests. Here, again, the inappropriateness of applying capitalist, market-driven ideals to the sphere of cultural policy is exposed. Also, the possibility is raised that such performativity in the cultural sphere serves two, largely unstated functions for the government: firstly, regular testing encourages increased cultural production, which within the confines of cultural industry could be expected to increase economic production; secondly, such emphasis on performance provides a form of justification for government policy in the cultural sphere. There has always been dissent regarding state arts spending in the United Kingdom how much public money is spent, what it is spent on, and what return the British taxpayers can exp ect on their investment in the arts. Performance tests in the cultural sector allow the state to point to demonstrable success, progress, or productivity in the cultural sector, which can be interpreted as proof of successful cultural policy implementation. Instrumentalism Instrumentalism the use of cultural institutions and cultural policy to achieve specific political aims is in many ways as old as cultural policy itself. For as long as there has been state arts patronage in the United Kingdom, the state has attempted to utilise the institutions, activities and sectors it sponsored to make political, social and economic changes to society. In the most recent three decades, the emphasis has been upon the latter, whereas earlier in the twentieth century, more importance was perhaps placed upon concepts of social change and nation-building. The roots of the Arts Council the organisation CEMA which was instituted during the Second World War were in morale-building, increased public access, softening of Britains class divisions, and fostering patriotism and a sense of the unified nation. As such, state intervention in the cultural sphere has more often than not been with at least some intention of using said intervention as a political or other tool. Gray states that the museums sector, in particular, is effectively being used as a tool for the attainment of the policy objectives of actors and concerns that have traditionally been seen to lie outside of the museums sector itself (Gray, 2007, p. 3). Museums are particularly susceptible to political manipulation, as they occupy a unique cultural space in terms of creating a nations sense of history and heritage, and fostering ideas of nationhood and the future of a country. What is included or excluded in a museum, and the manner in which it is displayed and framed, has a huge effect upon its reception and the ideas it can inspire. Vestheim (1994), talking of cultural policy, defines instrumental policy as being to use cultural ventures and cultural investments as a means or instrument to attain goals in other than cultural areas (p. 65). In broad terms, all cultural policy, and by extension all public policy, can be viewed as instrumental policy. All policy is intended to achieve something (Gray, 2007, p. 205). So, while instrumentalitsm has always been a feature of cultural policy in the United Kingdom, it is in recent decades that it has come to the forefront of the cultural discourse. Thatcher, Major and New Labour under Tony Blair and Gordon Brown have all emphasised cultural policy as an instrument of economic regeneration, and achievement within the market. As such, they have acknowledged that their cultural policies are more baldly instrumental in nature than those of preceding administrations which at least paid lip service to ideals of social justice, welfare, and development of the arts for their own sake. Neo-Conservatism After the industrial and economic woes of the 1970s in the United Kingdom, the tide was ready to turn to neo-conservatism, and this was a change mirrored in many of the Western societies. Reagan, for example, was president of the United States during the Thatcher regime in the UK, and both pursued Conservative policies within a capitalist framework. In cultural policy and artistic thinking, neo-conservatism was perhaps the ideological opposite to the Romanticism of the preceding century. In the nineteenth century, cultural discourse was dominated by the ideal of the lone, genius artist who would be successful only posthumously (a striking example of this would be many of the great Romantic musical composers). Romantic ideology lauded the isolated artist-genius who was inspired to work purely because of artistic passion, rather than economic concerns. In fact, to be a poor and starving artist conveyed perhaps relatively more artistic credibility. It was believed that the true value of art is transcendent and can be determined by experts, commonly accompanied by the idea that the monetary value of art is false and the market cannot decide (Hesmondhalgh Pratt, 2005, p. 5). Concomitant with this was the Romantic belief that art was for all, and that culture has the power to act as a civilising force upon society as a whole. Neo-conservatism tuned these ideas on their head. The lauded artist of the 1980s through 2000s is economically successful, creating a cultural product or commodity that appeals to, and responds to, the demands of the mass capitalist market. Ideals of the civilising powers of high culture upon society as a whole have been largely abandoned in practical terms, in favour of economic concerns (despite state assertions to the contrary, the prime goal in recent years appears to be financial rather than social). Limited positive effects of neo-conservative cultural policies and ideologies can be appreciated in some spheres. Caust argues that, in a society which is dominated by capitalist values (Caust, 2007, p.54), an economically successful artist will likely receive greater respect for their work, as well as more money. Furthermore, the market-driven, neo-conservative emphasis on the exportability of cultural product can have the positive effects of creating national pride and highlighting the value of cultural production to the wider world (ibid, p. 54). Monetarism Conclusions In recent times arts funding agencies have been restructured to reflect a market-driven agenda rather than an arts-driven agenda. (Caust, 2003, p. 51) Overall in the last thirty years, cultural policy in the UK has looked increasingly to capitalism, the free-market economy, and the so-called cultural and creative industries in terms of cultural policy direction. Models from the world of business and commerce have been applied over several decades to the cultural sector: managerialism; instrumentalism; monetarism; economic realism; performativity; and the overwhelming commodification of all kinds of culture. In implementing these policies, many of the more socially-just aims of prior generations of cultural policy-makers have been neglected or abandoned. In an era of increasing globalisation, successive UK governments of the past thirty years have pushed for cultural production, economic viability and profitability, and the creation of exportable cultural commodities for mass cultural consumption. Applying such concepts and organisational structures from private industry to the cultural sector has its drawbacks. Caust states that, when it comes down to dollars, the arts cannot in any way compete with many other components of the broad cultural industry spectrum such as the communications or IT areas. (Caust, 2007, p.55). Overall, the forces of neo-conservatism have not succeeded in making the UK cultural sector an economically productive and independently viable industry. In attempting to fit the arts and culture into a capitalist mould, UK cultural policy of the past thirty years has failed in many arenas cultural, social, economical, and political. Bibliography ACGB, records: 1928-1997. http://www.vam.ac.uk/vastatic/wid/ead/acgb/acgbb.html (London: Victoria Albert Museum) Alexander and Rueschemeyer, 2005 _________________________________ Alexander, David (1978), A Policy for the Arts: Just Cut Taxes, (London: Selsdon Group, 1978) Amis, Kingsley (1979). An Arts Policy? ( London: Centre for Policy Studies, 1979). Barnes, T. (2001) Retheorizing economic geography: from the quantitative revolution to the cultural turn. Annals of the Association of American Geographers 91, 546-65. Pusey, Michael (1991).   Economic Rationalism in Canberra: A Nation Building State Changes its Mind. Cambridge University Press. Bennett, O (1995), Cultural Policy in the United Kingdom: Collapsing Rationales and the End of a Tradition, European Journal of Cultural Policy, Vol. 1, pp. 199-216 Bilton, Chris (____).   Cultures of Management: Cultural Policy, Cultural Management and Creative Organisations _______ Caust, Jo (2003).   Putting the Art back into Arts Policy Making: How Arts Policy has been Captured by the Economists and the Marketers, The International Journal of Cultural Policy, 2003 Vol. 9 (1), pp. 51-63 Cormack, Patrick ed., Right Turn ( London: Leo Cooper, 1978) Croft, Andy (1995) Betrayed Spring: The Labour Government and British Literary Culture, in Labours Promised Land? Culture and Society in Labour Britain, 1945-51, ed. Jim Fyrth (London: Lawrence Wishart, 1995) Elsom, John (1971), Theatre Outside London ( London: Macmillan, 1971) Fisher, Rod (2010) United Kingdom/ 1. Historical perspective: cultural policies and instruments, Compendium of Cultural Policies and Trends in Europe, 11th edition, 2010. Council of Europe/ERICarts. Retrieved from http://www.culturalpolicies.net/web/unitedkingdom.php Fyrth, Jim (1995). Labours Promised Land? Culture and Society in Labour Britain, 1945-51, London: Lawrence Wishart Gray, C. (1995), The Commodification of Cultural Policy in Britain, pp. 307-15 in J. Lovenduski and J. Stanyer (eds), Contemporary Political Studies 1995 (Belfast, Political Studies Association) Gray, Clive (2007).   Instrumental Cultural Policies: Causes, Consequences and Museums, Paper to the Arts and Humanities Research Council Instrumental Museum and Gallery Policy Workshop, University of Glasgow, October 2007 Gray, Clive. (2000). The Politics of the Arts in Britain.   Palgrave Macmillan, UK. Haines, Joe (2003) Glimmers of Twilight. London, Politicos Publishers. Haney (2010). Britpop, Retrieved March 17, 2010 from http://uweb.cas.usf.edu/~dslone/pathfinders/haney.htm Harris, John S. (1969), Decision-Makers in Government Programs of Arts Patronage: The Arts Council of Great Britain, The Western Political Quarterly, Vol. 22, No. 2 (Jun., 1969), pp. 253-264. Western Political Science Association, University of Utah Hennessy, P. and Seldon, A. (eds.) (1987) Ruling Performance: British Government from Attlee to Thatcher. Oxford: Basil Blackwell. Hewison, R. (1998), New Cultural Models for Old, International Journal of Cultural Policy, vol. 5(1), 99-107. Hull, Robin (1958). Subsidised Music: 1. Th

Political Dilemmas and the Theories of the German Idealists :: Politics Political Science Papers

Does the Solution to our Present Moral and Political Dilemmas Lie in the Theories of the German Idealists? ABSTRACT: In the wake of the postmodernist onslaught one thing is certain: morality is in crisis. Where are we to look for answers? Perhaps to the German idealists—that is, to their bold synthesis of right and freedom. This paper seeks to bring the timely issue of absolute freedom and the possibility of its total realization back into ethical-political discussion. Through a close comparison of the theories of Fichte and Hegel via a critique of the former by the latter, I show that the antidote to many of our political, moral and theological distresses may well be found in Hegel’s concept of the State and Sittlichkeit-i.e., truly understood as the realization of absolute freedom, or the "We that is I." In the wake of the postmodernist onslaught one thing is certain: morality is in crisis. Where are we to look for answers? Perhaps to the German idealists.—That is, to their bold synthesis of right and freedom. This paper seeks to bring the timely issue of absolute freedom and the possibility of its total realization in today's world back into the center of ethical-political discussion. Through a close comparison of the theories of Fichte and Hegel via a critique of the former by the latter, I hope to show that the antidote to the bulk of our political, moral and theological distresses may well be found in Hegel's concept of the State and Sittlichkeit—i.e., truly understood. Namely, as the realization of absolute freedom, or the "We that is I." In a recent interview, Derrida was asked the following question: "We are . . . in a period of highly perfected, nearly consummate nihilism. Everyone is waiting to know where we are going, toward what should we be moving ourselves. Toward what does work such as yours lead?" Derrida responded: "I don't know. . . . I have no message."(1) In the wake of the postmodernist onslaught—or charade—one thing is certain: morality is in crisis. Where are we to look for answers? Perhaps to the German idealists—and to their bold synthesis of right and freedom. This paper seeks to bring the timely issue of absolute freedom and the possibility of its total realization in today's world back into the center of ethical-political discussion. Through a critical comparison of the theories of Fichte and Hegel I hope to show that the antidote to the bulk of our political, moral and theological distresses may well be found in Hegel’s concept of the State and Sittlichkeit—as truly understood.

Terrorism and Morality Essay -- September 11 Terrorism Essays

Terrorism and Morality      Ã‚   In the wake of the Sept. 11 attacks of 2001 and the U.S. military action in Afghanistan, moral questions have arisen. This essay will consider such questions.    Many Church leaders and leading thinkers in the United States have strongly defended the U.S. use of military force in the wake of Sept. 11. Yet outside the States the talk is less about just-war and more about economic and social inequalities. The first and overriding inequality Americans face at the moment is this one: The real murderers, the architects of these murders, are alive and determined to kill again, while the murder victims have been robbed of their lives, their futures, their hopes, dreams and families. More than 5,000 innocent people died at the hands of extremist killers in a single day in September(CNN), and others continue to die through what appears to be bioterrorism(Bio).    Americans see this more clearly, and feel it more keenly, than outsiders because Americans are directly engaged as the target of the violence. Outsiders are not, so their perspective is predictably different.    I think that reminders of the social and economic inequalities in the world serve an important purpose. But no government can keep its legitimacy if it fails to defend its people. The injustices in the world can never be used to "contextualize" or excuse mass murder. And the United States is by no means the only source of the world ´s social and economic inequalities. America bears heavier moral obligations for its actions because of its prosperity and power, but in the Muslim countries and throughout the Third World, rulers have consistently exploited their own people, with or without Western involvement. Sin isn ´t a... ...ht to a life without fear. The irony, of course, is that hundreds of thousands of Arab-Americans are actually Christians whose families often came to the United States to escape economic discrimination and religious intimidation in the Muslim countries of the Middle East.    I believe that despite our flaws and sins, Americans are a good people -- and also a great people. We have a chance in the United States to show the world that Christians, Jews, Muslims and people of other faiths and no faith can live together in mutual respect and peace. Whether Americans today have the character to accomplish that goal remains to be seen. It has to be proven again in every new generation.    SOURCES CITED:    Bioterrorism Articles. http://pubs.ama-assn.org/bioterr.html    CNN Online News. http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2001/memorial/      

‘Hide and Seek’ by Vernon Scannell and ‘Half-past Two’ by U. A. Fanthorpe Essay

‘Hide and Seek’ concerns a boy hiding cautiously whilst playing hide and seek with his peers. Gradually, he realises he has been abandoned, and fear overcomes him due to being isolated in the dark surroundings. The tone is incredibly certain and positive at the beginning. However, his confidence gradually fades away as the realisation of his abandonment occurs. The mood is analogous to the tone. At first, we can sense the excitement. This modifies to anxiety and nervousness towards the end. The poet uses language features to portray the tone. On the first line, exclamation marks are used to show the enthusiasm of the boy. Scannell uses personification and the senses to describe the surrounding atmosphere in a vivid way. Therefore, the reader gets a clearer image. Occasional rhyme is used to add a sense of rhythm to the poem. The poem is one continuous stanza. It is like dramatic monologue in that it creates character, but it is actually second person. The structure emphasises the unbearable length of waiting time. The adult speaks to his childhood self in second person, explaining feeling and thoughts. There are short sentences to build up tension and create stillness. The themes explored in ‘Hide and Seek’ are childhood experiences, reflection, isolation and abandonment. These themes are also explored in ‘Half- past Two’. This poem also explores various other themes such as time restriction and criticism of teaching methods. Half-past two is about a child who has been naughty. The punishment given by his teacher is to stay in the room until half- past two. She forgets that she hasn’t taught him time. He only understands his routines and throughout the poem we see how the child escapes time because he doesn’t know it. The poet uses tone and language methods to portray the way the child is treated. The mood for the majority of the poem is quite dreamy and we get the feeling that the boy is confused. In terms of language, personification is used effectively to show the child’s view of time. The use of senses creates the surrounding atmosphere like in the previous poem, ‘Hide and Seek’. Compound words are used to show the routines of the boy and the only time concepts he understands. Rhythm is produced by the repetition of compound words and by the fact that they are said in a child’s sing- song voice. Half-past two is divided into eleven three lines stanzas. Irony is expressed through the organised structure, as it contrasts with the boy’s feelings. In ‘Hide and Seek’ the child is hiding carefully, checking ‘feet aren’t sticking out,’ and taking precautions such as not risking ‘another shout.’ Gradually, we realise his friends have purposely abandoned him, but the child is very naive and thinks he is ‘the winner.’ He realises in ‘the darkening garden’ that he has been neglected. The poem is written in second person. ‘They’ll never find you in this salty dark.’ This gives us the impression that the narrator is an adult looking back on the experience. The senses are used in order to describe the surrounding atmosphere in a more vivid way. ‘The sacks in the tool shed smell like the seaside.’ Scannell also uses personification, which causes us to imagine how the child is feeling at that particular point. ‘The cold bites through your coat.’ Personification is effective at portraying the child’s feelings as it is easier for us to understand something if it is described to us in a more physical way. The majority of personification is used towards the end to give a sense of foreboding. ‘The darkening garden’ watching emphasises his isolation in a scary place whereas ‘the bushes hold their breath’ can show what the child may be doing because he is scared. In extreme circumstances when people are very scared, they hold their breath without knowing. Scannell applies punctuation to portray the tone and mood of the poem. ‘I’m ready! Come and find me!’ The exclamation marks highlight the excitement of the child. We detect a positive attitude and certainty due to the use of the imperative rather than taking orders. A question is used at the end to portray the uncertain and anxious emotions the child is feeling. ‘But where are they who sought you?’ This is the voice of the adult reflecting on a bitter experience. It is symbolic that the poem begins with the imperative and exclamation marks and conspicuously ends with confusion and question marks. It emphasises the gradual change from having a positive attitude to realisation of isolation. An alternative point that proves that the mood is positive at the beginning  is that the child compares the current situation to a typical, happy one the majority of children’s experience. ‘The sacks in the tool shed smell like the seaside.’ This gives the impression of a dazzling, sunny beach with a lot of happy children playing without constraints and restriction. This is ironic as the child is isolated in a dark, begrimed place with restricted space. The poem is one continuous stanza. The dramatic monologue symbolizes the unbearable length of waiting time. The character is speaking directly to us, explaining his different feelings and thoughts. The poem can be divided into two parts. They are positivity and certainty, and negativity and realisation. The first line of the second part is, ‘it seems a long time since they went away.’ Previously, the child attempts to convince himself they are still looking for him. ‘They must be thinking you’re very clever.’ The effect of this is to emphasise the naivety and innocence of the child. For the majority of the poem, the child is positive, but only for a minority is he negative. This can accentuate the fact a child may spend more time with fallacious ideas than in actual reality. Short sentences are used to build up tension. ‘Don’t breathe. Don’t move. Stay dumb.’ These sentences are said slower than the rest of the poem, creating a tense stillness. The pace slows down. Occasional rhyme is present in ‘Hide and Seek’. ‘Out, shout,’ ‘coat, throat.’ A sense of rhythm is added to the poem. I think there are four main themes explored in the poem; childhood memories, isolation, abandonment, feeling unwanted and reflection. Reflection and childhood memories can be connected as the whole poem is about an adult reflecting on a childhood memory. This is proven by the fact that the whole of the poem is written in second person. ‘You’ve never heard them sound so hushed before.’ This is more personal than using ‘he’ or ‘him.’ Isolation is another theme. The innocent child doesn’t think so, but for the  whole of the poem, he is alone. In the positive part of the poem, he believes that his friends are outside, but close to him. ‘They’re moving closer, someone stumbles, mutters;’ The child believes his friends are so close, he can even hear they’re discreet actions, usually unnoticeable. Like the last theme, it emphasises the naivety and innocence of the boy. An alternative point to verify that the boy is in isolation is the fact that he is in ‘the darkening garden’ as he emerges from ‘the tool shed.’ There is emphasis on the amount of darkness in his surroundings. This can be interpreted as a symbol of loneliness. This brings about fear, especially in young children. The fact that ‘the sun is gone’ is another symbol for darkness being present. For children, the sun and brightness are indications of happiness and contentment within a group. The theme of abandonment can be associated with isolation because he is alone. It is clear to us that his friends purposefully abandon the boy. ‘Their words and laughter scuffle, and they’re gone.’ We realise this a considerable time before the boy does. This emphasises that most of the time, children are left in the dark, and elders know beforehand. Feeling unwanted is another major theme of ‘Hide and Seek’. This is how the child feels when the realisation of his abandonment occurs to him. ‘Yes, here you are. But where are they who sought you?’ It is likely that the child feels his peers abandoned him because they do not like him. This action and the subsequent emotion are common with children. The child is left confused thinking that there is something wrong with them. I can tell by the bitterness of the adult’s tone that this is how the child feels. ‘You’re legs are stiff, the cold bites through your coat.’ He is trying to show that all the pain he went through was not worth it because he was unwanted. Similarly to ‘Hide and Seek’, ‘Half- past Two’ is about a young child. He has done something naughty in school and is told by his teacher to stay in the room until ‘Half- past Two’. In her rush, she forgets that ‘She hadn’t taught him Time.’ The only time concepts he is aware of and understands are daily routines such as ‘Gettinguptime,’ ‘Timeyouwereofftime.’ Whilst  waiting, he escapes into a ‘clockless land’ ‘out of reach of all the timefors.’ The teacher returns, slots ‘him back into school time’ and tells him to leave, or else he’ll be late. Contrasting with ‘Hide and Seek’, ‘Half- past Two’ is written in third person. ‘He did Something Very Wrong.’ I think the narrator is the adult looking back on a childhood experience. The poet doesn’t make it very obvious by using first person, or second person like ‘Hide and Seek’. Fanthorpe uses personification to portray the child’s view of the clock. ‘The little eyes, and two long legs for walking.’ This view is a child’s typical perception and establishes how naive a child can be, a comparison to ‘Hide and Seek’. Personification is used further when Fanthorpe uses the pun, ‘He couldn’t click its language.’ She is progressing further from the point that a child views a clock as a living object. A clock produces a ticking noise. To the child, this is how it talks. The pun stresses the point that he can’t understand a clock, and therefore time. Personification is used in ‘Hide and Seek’, but for different purposes. It is to give a clearer image, rather than show a child’s perception of an object. A comparison to ‘Hide and Seek’ concerning language is that the senses create a clearer atmosphere for the reader. ‘The smell of old chrysanthemums on Her desk.’ Another reason for the use of senses differing from ‘Hide and Seek’ at this particular point is to show how people, especially children notice insignificant things when they are alone. Their concentration increases due to minimal distraction. ‘Into the silent noise his hangnail made.’ The senses are used when he escapes into the ‘clockless land of ever’. A significant stanza of the poem is where ‘she slotted him back into schooltime.’ An image of this is created in our minds of a mechanical action. It is as if he is being taken out of one zone and put back into another instantly. The alliteration on this line causes the poem to be more rhythmic. Subsequent to escaping the timeless world, the teacher’s words are in  italics. ‘I forgot all about you.’ I think this is to make her lines prominent. These lines are important because they emphasise the fact that the child was neglected. Compound words are used to portray the child’s routines, the only time concepts he understands. ‘Gettinguptime, timeyouwereofftime, timetogohomenowtime.’ I think his parents and other carers in his life say these. The repetition of compound words creates a sense of rhythm. They seem to be said in a sing- song tone, emphasising the patronizing tone to the child because of his age. A patronizing tone is used previously towards the boy. ‘He did Something Very Wrong.’ The title case states the words that are emphasised. She thinks that if she uses a normal tone, the message won’t get through to him. In the last stanza, we can sense the wistful tone of the narrator. ‘Where time hides tick- less waiting to be born.’ He wishes he could escape into this land where he isn’t restricted by time, like most adults. The narrator shows bitterness by using a satirical and sarcastic tone. ‘(I forget what it was.)’ This mocks the teacher by trying to show that she was making a big deal out of something insignificant. The mood in the poem is dreamy, especially when the boy escapes into the timeless zone. ‘Beyond onceupona.’ The mood emphasises his confusion by the unfamiliar concept of time. The dreamy mood is also indicated by the fairytale references. ‘Once upon a schooltime.’ The word ‘time’ is substituted for alternative words or none at all. Not only do fairytale references portray the mood, but also the fact that fairytales are childish and contain fantasy aspects. The moods in ‘Half- past Two’ are a contrast to the mood in ‘Hide and Seek’. The poem is divided into eleven three-line stanzas, showing organisation. Irony is expressed through the organised structure, as it contrasts with the boy’s feelings. This is a very noticeable difference to the structure of ‘Hide and Seek’. A  further distinction is that occasional brackets are used in ‘Half- past Two’ as opposed to none in ‘Hide and Seek’. One stanza is dedicated to criticizing teaching methods and sarcastically mocking her. ‘(Being cross, she’d forgotten she hadn’t taught him Time. He was too scared of being wicked to remind her.)’ The brackets represent the insignificance of the teacher’s actions. The themes explored in ‘Half- past Two’ that are also explored in ‘Hide and Seek’ are childhood memories, isolation, abandonment and reflection. Also, restriction of time and freedom of childhood. Like in ‘Hide and Seek’, the themes of childhood memories and reflection can be closely tied together because in my view, the poem is about an adult looking back on a childhood experience. Unlike ‘Hide and Seek’, this isn’t indicated by the use of second person as the poem is written in third person, a less personal approach. It is indicated by the tone in the final stanza. ‘But he never forgot how once by not knowing time†¦Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ The tone is pensive and regretful. The adult wishes he had the power to escape into the ‘clockless land of ever.’ This brings me to my next point that restriction by time is a theme explored in ‘Half- past Two’, but not ‘Hide and Seek’. The last stanza is the adult reflecting. ‘He escaped into the clockless land of ever, where time hides tick- less waiting to be born.’ The quote emphasises the fact that an innocent child isn’t restricted by time as oppos ed to adults. An additional theme is isolation. Contrary to ‘Hide and Seek’, the child is aware of his isolation, but confused at how to escape it. ‘So he waited†¦Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ His child like qualities are emphasised by the fact that he needs an older responsible figure to help and guide him. Abandonment, another theme, occurs when his teacher as opposed to friends in ‘Hide and Seek’ deserts the child. In both poems, the child is abandoned, but the teacher and the friends have different intentions. The friends do it as a joke and assume the child will find his way back, whereas the teacher ignored and forgot the boy. ‘Stay in the schoolroom till half- past two.’ In conclusion, I think the differences outweigh the similarities. An important similarity is that both are about adults reflecting on childhood experiences. In ‘Hide and Seek’, the adult is regretful and despises the experience, whereas in ‘Half- past Two’, the adult wishes he could relive the experience. Another difference is the structures of both poems. ‘Hide and Seek’ is one continuous stanza, whereas ‘Half- past Two’ consists of eleven three line stanzas. Regarding language, both poems use personification and senses to vividly describe the surrounding atmosphere. Unlike ‘Half- past Two’, ‘Hide and Seek’ uses punctuation to portray the change in tone and mood. Regarding themes, all themes explored in ‘Hide and Seek’ are explored in ‘Half- past Two’ as well as more. A noticeable difference is the content of both poems. The experiences are totally different as are the reactions a nd personal opinions of them. I enjoyed reading ‘Hide and Seek’ more than ‘Half- past Two’. This is because I thought ‘Hide and Seek’ was more effective at vividly portraying the experience. In ‘Half- past Two’, it was harder to get a grasp of the content and symbolism within the poem.