Saturday, May 23, 2020

What is Curiosity - 1841 Words

What is Curiosity, why do babies differ in intelligence, personality and characteristics as they grow up? Some people become good citizens, and some grow up to be bad citizens who become dangerous to the community. Philosophers tried to find out and explain these questions that were observed in individuals. There are many developmentalists whom offered different theories to explain human development. Theories of development include, psychoanalytic, learning, cognitive, biological and evolutionary, and system theories (Boyd, 2009), and we are discussing Piaget’s cognitive theory below. Jean Piaget was a Swiss psychologist, and his cognitive- development theory is one of the most influential theories in history.†¦show more content†¦During this stage children are quite egocentric, that they see things likely from one point of view. For example: A child can hold a picture that only she/he can see, and she/he expects you to see at the same time (Boeree, 2006). The concret e operational stage: At this level of human development, children between the ages of seven to eleven focus on things that why and how they happen. Children first see connections around their surroundings, and can attach two and more symbols to an object or event (Macionis, 2009). Children age of seven or eight years, develop conservation of substance that they will know if we take a ball of clay and make it rolled rod or flat which is still the same amount of clay. By age of nine and ten, children can master conservation of area or conservation of mass. Children during this stage can be ready for formal education as well (Boeree, 2006). The formal operational stage: The last level of human development, at which people think critically and abstractly. Young people about the age of twelve start to reason and gain the capacity for abstract thought, and they learn to understand metaphors and more abstract symbols (Macionis, 2009). Observation: Observing children’s early development while multiple children are play is interesting to watch in terms of how they behave, play, talk, and act. This observation was done in the family event. There were few children gathered, all were playingShow MoreRelatedWhat does Nietzsche’s Mr. Daredevil-Curiosity report, when he metaphorically peers into the1700 Words   |  7 PagesWhat does Nietzsche’s Mr. Daredevil-Curiosity report, when he metaphorically peers into the workshop within which moral ideals are fabricated (GM I.14)? How convincing are his claims? Humanity, according to Nietzsche, is infected by an illness. It is the kind of illness that has infected every single man, religious or non-religious alike. It is his aim to release his readers from the illness. In much the same way as a doctor, he wishes to do so by primarily sourcing the cause of the illness, andRead MoreHow we came to know what we know now about anatomy and physiology has always been a great curiosity1000 Words   |  4 PagesHow we came to know what we know now about anatomy and physiology has always been a great curiosity of anyone interested in the medical field. Knowing the history can lead to even more discoveries in the future. When you think of anatomy you imagine something like this picture below. But here is where it all began†¦. The beginning of anatomy and physiology, ironically, began with a curiosity in biology. The first man to create an important contribution to biology was Alcmaeon, in the 5th centuryRead MoreScience And The Ethics Of Curiosity875 Words   |  4 PagesAccording to Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary, curiosity is simply defined as, â€Å"the desire to learn or know more about something or someone† (â€Å"Curiosity†). Most everyone is full of curiosity, but curiosity is a trait most commonly used to describe a child’s mind. This is most likely due to the fact that an innocent mind is undoubtedly a curious one. On the other hand, many adults and professionals are curious also, such as, scientists, historians, journalists, and any other person who wants to continueRead MoreThe Underlying Factors Of Curiosity1412 Words   |  6 Pagesto take root: Who is she? What is that? Where am I? This curiosity, or the desire to learn something, emerges uninvited when faced with the unknown, and is present from birth (Berlyne, 1950). In some cases, by following these mental itches, one can discover a facet of existence previously unbeknownst to her or possibly anyone else. However, sometimes there are dire consequences from taking an uncharted path. Through this paper, I consider the underlying factors of curiosity, including the neurologicalRead More Analysis of Curiosity by Alastair Reid Essay573 Words   |  3 PagesThe poem entitled â€Å"Curiosity† written by Alastair Reid is a symbolic poem that uses cats as a metaphor for humans. It relates felines to people in the sense of curiosity, and what could be considered actually living life to the fullest. Essentially, this work contradicts the popular phrase, â€Å"curiosity killed the cat† by placing it within a broader context. Instead of discouraging curiosity, Reid explains why people should embrace it. In the first stanza, the author argues that the cat may haveRead MoreHow Curiosity Can Be Addictive1049 Words   |  5 Pagesimpulsive and irresistible; it seizes us,† (5 Leslie). In context, this quote is describing diversive curiosity, but through analysis it can be see that this is how all of curiosity is. Curiosity drives away boredom. It makes people wonder about impossible ideas. With any kind of curiosity it’s hard to be bored. In the same way without curiosity, boredom will come easy. The thing that makes curiosity so impulsive is that it isn’t easily diminished. It can sometimes be directed towards something trivialRead MoreCuriosity Killed the Cat1348 Words   |  6 PagesCuriosity killed the cat Curiosity killed the cat is a proverb used to warn of the dangers of unnecessary investigation or experimentation. A less frequently-seen rejoinder to curiosity killed the cat is but, satisfaction brought it back.[1] The original form of the proverb, now little used, was Care killed the cat. In this instance, care was defined as worry or sorrow. An easier definiton of the phrase curiosity killed the cat would be that being curious can sometimes lead toRead MoreAlfred Lord Tennyson Curiosity Analysis912 Words   |  4 Pageswithout adventure and risks, is not a life worth living. Ulysses by Alfred Lord Tennyson and Curiosity by Alastair Reid both share the common theme that life must be lived to the fullest. The subjects of both poems are different despite having the same theme. Both poems present the theme in very different ways. Ulysses uses metaphors, similes, and a story like structure to get the theme across. Curiosity on the other hand presents the theme by using contrast, symbolism, tone and repetition. ReidRead MoreCuriosityity1082 Words   |  5 Pagessudden†¦ Twitch, Splat, Yelp†¦. While William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet shows that curiosity often leads teenagers to getting in trouble that could have been avoided, teenagers today still struggle with the battle between curiosity and making smart decisions. While curiosity can often be a good trait to have, a teenagers curiosity can’t be stopped. A teens mind doesn’t budge, and that leads to more curiosity. Romeo and Juliet are very curious teens. They never really see the world as it is, soRead MoreThe Deadly Sins By Flannery O Connor And Edgar Allen Poe1590 Words   |  7 PagesHave you ever heard that curiosity killed the cat or that greed is one of the seven deadly sins? Flannery O Connor and Edgar Allen Poe prove these two statements to be true. Both authors leave their readers thinking twice before they go peeking at the Christmas gifts under the tree or sneak that last piece of chocolate cake from the refrigerator. Their Catholic readers may even make a visit to a nearby confession box. A Good Man is Hard to Find and The Cask of Amontillado are short dark

Tuesday, May 19, 2020

Racial Disparities And Gender Disparities - 900 Words

When it comes to healthcare racial disparities continue to be an ongoing issue. In fact racial disparities have been a topic of discussion since desegregation. The US Department of Health and Human Services, in 1984 published a report that called attention to the healthcare disparities. The report was called Heath, United States 1983(Dougher, 2015). Within the context of the report there lies a passage that describes the major disparities that are within the burden of illness and death that is experienced by African Americans and other minorities, â€Å"despite significant progress in the overall health of the nation† (Dougher, 2015). It was evident that there was a serious lack of health care minorities. Low income neighborhoods are still witnessing a rising gap in healthcare coverage. For example, patients with diabetes are more likely to undergo limb amputation than those in higher income areas (Pearl, 2015). Also, research has shown the Caucasians women have and overall in cidence of breast cancer that is higher than that of African American women (Williams, Mohammed, Leavell, Collins, 2010). On the contrary there is a higher death rate of breast cancer in African American women than in Caucasians women. African American women are diagnosed with breast cancer at a rate of one-in-ten. Caucasian women see a rate of 1-in-8 however, 1-in-31 African American women are found die from their illness where 1-in-37 Caucasian die from breast cancer (ASPCS, 2014). These numbers areShow MoreRelatedDisparities Within The Health Care Environment1702 Words   |  7 PagesHealthcare Disparities Healthcare disparities have been an issue all over the world for a very long time. The purpose of this paper is to give you knowledge on disparities within the health care environment. This paper will discuss the definition of disparities, types of disparities, reasons for disparities, statistical data from trends and reports, and information on disparities elimination and improvements. What are healthcare disparities? Defining a disparity can eliminate confusion that disparitiesRead MoreThe Impact Of Geography On Mental Health Service Use And Care1552 Words   |  7 PagesThe study by Kim et al., (2013), examined racial and ethnic disparities in older black and white adults and the role of geography in mental health service use and care. The critique of this article examined disparities addressed but also the lack of other minorities suffering lack of mental health service use. Reducing racial disparities across the four regions in the South, Northeast, Midwest and West would support improving mental health access at the national level. The older blacks in theRead MoreCorrelation between Social Strata and Levels of Stress1614 Words   |  6 Pagesexperienced greater daily stress than their peers (Marmot, 2004). This has been extended beyond occupational hierarchies; experiencing racism—the result of a social hierarchy patterned around race/ethnicityâ⠂¬â€has been linked to poorer health outcomes for racial/ethnic minorities (Gee, 2002; Jackson et al., 1995; Karlsen Nazroo, 2002; Paradies, 2006). The literature confirms that occupying lower social strata and experiencing high levels of stress is deleterious for health (Aneshensel, 1992; Barr, 2008;Read MoreSocial Determinants Of Health And Health Disparities1724 Words   |  7 Pagesdeterminants of health influence health outcomes and disparities (Clarke, C. E., Niederdeppe, J., Lundell, H. C., 2012). They have also explored strategies for raising public awareness and mobilizing support for policies to address social determinants of health, with particular attention to narrative and image-based information Clarke, C. E., Niederdeppe, J., Lundell, H. C., 2012). The relationship between the social determinants of health and health disparities has been well researched. In developing policiesRead MoreThe Effect Of Life Expectancy1366 Words   |  6 Pagesexpectancy throughout t he second half of the 20th century. Although life expectancy increased from 49 to 80 years due to life and health enhancements, it has caused gender, religion, income and racial group disparities that impact the sustainability of the earth. II. Gender (Conflict Theory) Symbolic Interactionism Gender disparities are heightened through the life expectancy. Although men are created physically stronger, taller and faster, they face the issue of having a shorter life expectancyRead MoreHiring A Gender Wage Disparity Through The United States Awareness Bake Sale993 Words   |  4 PagesFor my activism project, I teamed up with Jada Rush to conduct a gender wage disparity in the United States awareness bake sale. On April 9, 2015, we pulled aside a table outside of the library, right in front of Starbucks and began advertising our bake sale. Our inventory included chocolate chip and oatmeal raisin cookies, they were two in each package and since it was a wage disparity awareness bake sale, each bag of cookies were fifty cents for females and seventy-five cents for males. On eachRead MoreDisparity and Discrimination Essay790 Words   |  4 PagesMany different situations occur within the criminal justice system. The situations that will be discussed in this essay are Pseudosp eciation, bigotry vs. racism, hegemony, social construction, and disparity vs. discrimination. There will be definition on these terms. After defining the all terms, I will apply these terms to the criminal justice system using examples to illustrate the understanding of the definitions. Pseudospeciation Pseudospeciation begins with the fact that cultural differencesRead MoreRacial Disparity in Sentencing1728 Words   |  7 PagesRacial Disparity in Sentencing Lori Raynor University of Phoenix Cultural Diversity in Criminal Justice CJA/423 Ron McGee September 06, 2010 Abstract In this paper I will illustrate racial disparity in sentencing in the criminal justice system. The causes of racial disparity and the reasons it is on the rise, the research statistics, and the proposed solutions are discussed. Racial Disparity in Sentencing The intersection of racial dynamics with the criminal justice systemRead MoreSentencing Of Sentencing And Sentencing Essay920 Words   |  4 Pagesbrings us to talk about sentencing disparities? In which a court case trial is not treated the same or it is treated differently than other cases. However, who faces the most disparities in sentencing? Could it be African American’s who face’s the most trends and Asian American’s the least trends in sentencing disparities? Or could it be Hispanic/Latino’s who are the least victims of sentencing disparities? Many authors have studied the trends of sentencing disparities, and they have encountered manyRead MoreThe New Eldercare Service Model Must Be One Of Inclusion1293 Words   |  6 Pages Chapter Health Disparities in America The new eldercare service model must be one of inclusion. We can no longer afford to marginalize any group of seniors. –Author Introduction I n the United States, wealth is the strongest determinant of health; and the strength of this relationship is profound and continues to increase. Wealth confers many benefits that are associated with health and quality of life outcomes. Wealth creates disparities in high quality education, employment, housing, childcare

Tuesday, May 12, 2020

A Wedding Speech By The Maid Of Honor And The Best Man

Friendship is one of the most important thing in this world. Friends are the people who support the decisions you make, encourage you to pursue your dreams, and love you despite your flaws. The loyalty and devotion between two friends are usually shown through real-life interactions. However, written words can also show how much two friends care for each other. Wedding speeches and text messages seemingly have no connections to one another; but through purpose, audience, and conventions such as tone, diction, and grammar choices we see that the two genres reveal how close two friends are. Furthermore, we see how the purpose and audience change the content of the two genres and how the audience change the tone and diction of the writing. In almost every wedding, a wedding speech is given by the maid-of-honor and the best man. These speeches are used to thank the parents for arranging the wedding and the guests for coming. The main purpose of the speech, however, is to wish the newly m arried couple all the happiness and luck with their marriage. While wishing the couple a happy marriage, the speaker includes anecdotes about the newlyweds, showing how strong the relationship between the bride or groom and the speaker. In Jenna Haas’s speech to Jillian Douwsma, she recounts a story about how Jillian’s groom, Seth, picked up an item that had fallen out of a girl’s backpack. He did not know that the item was a tampon and the two girl laughed about it. Anecdotes such as thisShow MoreRelatedWedding Speech By The Maid Of Honor And The Best Man1469 Words   |  6 Pagesthe friendships we have because there’s nothing more valuable than having your best friend’s presence through each decision made, through each important event, through each step you take in life. Without friends, we would be alone. The devotion and loyalty between two friends are shown through real life interactions. However, written words can also show how much two friends care for one another. Text messages and wedding speeches may seem to have no connection to each other, but through content, toneRead MoreI Met My Best Friend1396 Words   |  6 Pageswithout friends, we would be alone. I met my best friend when I was eleven-years-old. Our teacher forced us to sit next to each other after the first few days of school. We didn’t talk to each other much because we both had our own friends. However, one day, we decided to each lunch together and we started hanging out more and more. Soon, we became inseparable. People could tell that we were best friends by the way we acted around each other. Much like my best friend and I, the devotion and loyalty betweenRead MoreLife Of A Big Event843 Words   |  4 Pagesespecially my sister Fallon. She got married and I was her Maid of Honor. It was the most nerve wrecking yet amazing thing to be apart of. People who do not have fears of standing in front of a hundred people or so would not be bothered by it, but since I have this fear it was a struggle. From finding a dress, shoes, hair, etc. we struggled to get it all done, but we made it. When my sister first got engaged, her and Andrews wedding was not supposed to be until June of 2015. They both wantedRead MoreThe Representation Of The Speaking Model949 Words   |  4 Pagesalso addresses the norms of an event, the norms address the shoulds and the should nots that can occur at a wedding. Although every bride and groom follows not each of these practices, there are many norms to a wedding held in America. Many norms followed start even months or years before the ceremony takes place. It all starts with choosing a date. This forms the base for your entire wedding; it defines what colors to use, what materials to wear, if guests can attend, and many other factors. InvitationsRead MoreThe Ritual Of Marriage Essay1419 Words   |  6 Pagescountries espouse for other reasons. Whether Americans marry for procreation, wealth, or love, the rituals that dramatize the important themes in our modern society have evolved into a multibillion dollar industry. The economical ly fortunate often hire wedding planners to organize an extravagant ceremony, dinner, and party envious to all attendees. Alas, even those on tight budgets will spend well above their means for a beautiful and memorable night. While many couples dramatize the themes of love, familyRead More Humorous and Sentimental Wedding Speech by the Groom Essay1281 Words   |  6 Pagesand Sentimental Wedding Speech by the Groom I was going to begin with ladies and gentlemen but on looking around Im glad I didnt. So here goes. Distinguished guests, those of lesser distinction, and those of no distinction at all, family relatives, new and old, in-laws and out-laws, friends, friends of friends, and freeloaders, welcome to our wedding reception. First of all I would like to thank my brothers and my new sister for their kind words. I did have a speech all worked outRead MoreFeminist Criticism Of Bridesmaids1618 Words   |  7 Pageslovelorn, soon-to-be maid of honor, who attempts to mend her low self-esteem through sex with a hot, rich conceited narcissist. The bride, played by Maya Rudolph, who’s new beautiful, perfect friend, Helen, played by Rose Byrne, is threatening to take Annie’s place as the bride’s BFF. The supporting cast includes Melissa McCarthy, who plays Megan, the butch sister of the groom, adding to the array of humor throughout the film. The film is set up with long gags, like the speech-off between Annie andRead MoreOdysseus : The Characteristics Of A Homeric Hero1720 Words   |  7 Pagesand violence. No matter what challenges Odysseus faces, he always clearly demonstrates the characteristics of an epic hero. An important trait that an epic hero must have is intelligence. Odysseuss quick thinking, combined with his eloquence in speech and many other characteristics, has gotten him and his crew out of many tight situations. One situation, for example, was when Odysseus and his men were trapped in the Cyclops Polyphemoss cave. Although Odysseuss curiosity was what landed him intoRead MoreEntrapment Of Household: Analysis Of â€Å"A Doll’S House†.1657 Words   |  7 Pages(Mazur 30). Ibsen’s and Glaspell’s creative use of symbolism and speech acts when presenting the prejudicial class and gender roles of the Victorian Era correlate Nora Helmer’s and Minnie Wright’s newfound humanity to the modern notion of self and independence. In a time when women were unable to vote, pursue legal action, or own property, marriage was a sacred institution of which nearly every woman fantasized of her wedding day. A wife’s role was that of a highly submissive and restrictiveRead More How the Characters in Much Ado About Nothing Learn to Love Essay2994 Words   |  12 Pagesexplaining why he is asking Benedick about her.   He not only wants to know that his budding feelings are justified, but he wants to make sure that his choice of lady is indeed worthy of his honor.   Even if Hero is fair, if she will not compliment Claudio’s social status, he will not marry her (Ranald 74).   The notion of honor will come back to the forefront of this play later on. During this first scene, it quickly becomes clear that he knows he feels something for Hero, but he is unsure of exactly what

Wednesday, May 6, 2020

The African American Civil Right Movement - 1040 Words

The African American Civil right movement in the late 1950’s and throughout the 1960’s was a powerful fight for equal opportunities to the basic rights and privileges outlined by the US government. During this movement thousands of African American individuals and those who believed in the power of the movement, battled against the piercing white supremacy through various tactics including grass root movements. The grass root movements in the 60’s was characterized by organizations of individuals fighting for equality on the behalf of the African Americans, ultimately shaping American history. Such movements helped to raise awareness on a political level, of the injustice all African American’s endured. Grassroots activist during the 60’s were able to organize marches, rallies and protests in order to mobilize and strengthen the Civil Rights Movement. Grass rooting activism during the Civil Rights Movement in the 60’s shaped American History by aiding in the abolished laws restricting African American’s freedom to vote, the abolishment of segregation in school, and the passage of the Civil Rights act outlawing discrimination. As the Civil Rights Movement began to take root in the late 1950’s, many grassroots activist worked towards the creation of many freedom schools in the South to encourage the continuation of the fight for equality. As tension began to grow between those fighting in the Civil War Movement and those opposing it, many activist were looking for ways toShow MoreRelatedThe African-American Civil Rights Movement1295 Words   |  5 Pages The African-American Civil Rights Movement is arguably the largest and most successful push towards toward change in American history. The movement was influenced by some of the biggest figures in American history as well, led by Martin Luther King Jr. and influenced by others such as president Kennedy and Johnson. Amongst the numerous protests and powerful speeches during the Civil Rights Movement perhaps the most prominent is the series of three marches in 1965 known today as the â€Å"Selma to Montgomery†Read MoreThe African American Civil Rights Movement1450 Words   |  6 PagesThe African American civil rights movement was a long journey for African American nationwide. The success involved many people, hardships and time in order to advance the African American community in America. The purpose of the movement was to achieve their rights, cease discrimination, and racial segregation. During the start of the African American civil rights movement, Africans Americans still were faced with Jim Crow laws which segregated them from whites. Under the Jim Crow laws AfricanRead MoreAfrican Americans And The Civil Rights Movement1260 Words   |  6 PagesAfrican Americans have fought for equality for a long period of time against desegregation and racism. It was an era where blacks couldn’t have the same rights as a white individual. African American were treated with hate and anger. The Civil Rights Movement is embodied in dramatic recorded speeches. Speeches like â€Å"I have A Dream†, the â€Å"Black Revolution†, and â€Å"Black Power’ and Coalition Politics. These speeches were written by great leaders. Martin Luther King Jr, Malcolm X, and Bayard RustingRead MoreAfrican Americans And The Civil Rights Movement1624 Words   |  7 PagesDuring the early 1950’s and 1960’s, the civil rights movement defined how African Americ ans progressed from being considered second class citizens to a unified demographic who became more endowed to handle the high tensions between them and the white segregationists. After World War II, protests began to rise between the 1950’s and 1960’s. The large number of blacks that served in the military or worked in the war industry saw that they had a greater place in the world than they had been given inRead MoreAfrican Americans And The Civil Rights Movement1623 Words   |  7 Pages African Americans were brought to America during the colonial days by Britain, before the civil war, as slaves. They were the foundation of slave economy, being auctioned off and sold, with no thought given to their opinions, families, or lives. Throughout American history, African Americans have slowly fought their way towards where they are today. Their fight has developed into the Civil Rights Movement in the 1900s. Many historians would agree that the start of the Civil Rights Movement happenedRead MoreThe African American Civil Rights Movement756 Words   |  4 PagesAnother significant circumstance was the African-American civil rights movement in US in those years. Until the age of eighteen, he had never thought about ethnicity or cultural differences. After 1968, African-American movement turned to be seen in Milwaukee. He met with Father Grouppi*, but he did not support him and his followers. For a long time, he had not appreciated the African American civil rights movemen t. Moreover, he would think that this movement aggravates the racial segregation in societyRead MoreAfrican American Civil Rights Movement1594 Words   |  7 Pagesblack power movement in American Civil Rights Movement. Violence is a physical force intended to hurt someone. Politics is a platform where the wellbeing is thought for the citizens and in America the politics and laws have been placed in order for the betterment of the American citizens. In this essay I will unravel many factors arguing whether violence is legitimate or whether it is a mean that is necessary to a more equal nation mostly focusing on the American Civil Rights movement and the blackRead MoreAfrican American Civil Rights Movement1525 Words   |  7 PagesFollowing World War I, a new, militant spirit of resistance and activism burgeoned among African-American citizens across the United States. Empowered by the sense that blacks had played a crucial role in the conflict, the descendants of freedmen returned home to fight for their own rights only to find persecution; this dire situation called for immediate, decisive action. During the interwar years, African Americans in the southwest Georgia Black Belt fought for community empowerment and, through theRead MoreAfrican Americans And The Civil Rights Movement Essay2200 Words   |  9 Pagesequal rights. A perfect example of racial brutality was the summer of 1955 when Emmett Till was brutally murdered by two white men. This murder case promptly seized the attention of millions and modified the history of the United States. The Emmett Till murder case established itself as a defining event in the United States history because it became a spark to the Civil Rights movement, transformed people’s hearts and minds into realizing how dangerous segregation was, and it proved how African AmericansRead MoreAfrican Americans And The Civil Rights Movement1531 Words   |  7 Pagesstates for African Americans in the 1960, although it has been nearly 100 years since the Emancipation Proclamation. African Americans were still segregated from classrooms, restrooms, theatres, etc. due to â€Å"Jim Crow† laws; and in 1954, the â€Å"separate but equalà ¢â‚¬  doctrine was struck down by the U.S. Supreme Court. For hundreds of years African Americans fought for their civil rights, desegregation, and basic human rights. One significant movement in history that was major for the Civil Rights Movement

Challenges of Youths in Our Contemporary World Free Essays

string(23) " can lead to disaster\." CHALLENGES OF YOUTHS IN A MODERN WORLD The Longman Modern English Dictionary defines youth as â€Å"the state or quality of being young, the period from childhood to maturity; young people of both sexes†. A youth is characterized by features such as youngness, restlessness, strength, independence, curiosity; search fro greatness, vigor good, health etc. Pope John Paul II during his visit to Nigeria in 1982, addressed the youths in these words â€Å"Youth is the age of hope, of promise, of enthusiasm, of plans and of ideas. We will write a custom essay sample on Challenges of Youths in Our Contemporary World or any similar topic only for you Order Now Youth does not want to give up in the face of difficulties†¦ Youth believes in a better world and is determined to do something to help bring it about†. ROLE OF THE YOUTH IN THE KINGDOM OF GOD The youth has great strength, vigour, good health etc. These features should be channeled towards the propagation of the gospel. Let the children come to me, do not hinder them, for such belongs the kingdom of God (Lk. 18:16). In the church, the youths have the responsibility of evangelizing. It is their duty to witness Christ to their peers and to the remotest areas where Christ has not been preached. Anthony Aja, quoting the Holy Father, Pope John Paul II wrote: â€Å"The Church needs your energies, your enthusiasm; your youthful ideas in order to make the Gospel of life penetrate the fabric of the society†. â€Å"Besides, the Pope re-emphasized the part that youth can play in the call to evangelize the world as he addressed them in these words. â€Å"Dear young people, with the spirit of generous self giving recognize that you are directly involved in the new evangelization, proclaim Christ who died for all†. Where are our Youths today? Out there in search of worldly pleasure or working for the Lord. (Ref. to the past). To be good evangelizer, witnessing must be accompanied by good example, being like Christ in all ramification. The bible recorded many dynamic youths worthy of emulation. Two of such youths will be considered in this text. They are Joseph and David. Joseph had an encounter with God. He reverenced God. The fear of God was in his heart. Portipher’s household prospered because of the presence of Joseph. How about you? He hated sin. He successfully resisted the temptation from his master’s wife. To the sin-laden wife of his master Portipha, he asked, â€Å"how can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God†? (Gen. 39:9). To escape the wrath that might befall him as a result of this great sin, he ran and fled from this great evil, sin of fornication. Godless youth would take advantage of this immoral opportunity and yield to the temptation. It takes a heart that has been washed by the Blood of The Lamb, a youth who has experienced the salvation of the Lord Jesus Christ, a sanctified person and Holy Ghost filled to overcome such temptation. For the bible says â€Å"for the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world†. Titus 2:11-12. David the son of Jesse, the youngest of the eight sons of Jesse, rose and worked marvels for god right from his youth. He killed a lion, a bear and conquered the veteran warrior Goliath. He overcame the evil spirits that tormented Saul by his anointed fingers on the musical instruments. He was able to do all these exploits for God because of his personal knowledge of God and the power of the Holy Ghost that was upon him. Through the youngest of Jesse’ sons, his fear of the lord and his close relationship with God, made him to do the chosen one of God. †Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the midst of his brothers, and the spirit of the Lord came mighty upon David from that day forward (1Samuel 16:13). Above all learn from Jesus Christ, who from childhood went about doing the father’ business, â€Å"I must preach the good news of the kingdom of God to the other citizens also, for I was sent for this purpose? Make yourself available for noble use. Challenges Facing the Youth Today The general state of youth reveals spirituals, social and psychological crises and confusion. They are being affected by the effects and influence of the society, peer groups, parental neglect and the evil one. Many of our youths blindly follow the dictates of the secularization of Western culture. The effects of secularism on most people have even made them argue that churches should accepts the society’s new directions. To them, if the society accept the society’s new directions. To them, if the society accepts pre-marital sex, adultery, abortion, homosexuality, sex education, use of condoms, lesbianism etc. hey cannot see why the church has to keep calling them sins. The youth sees the youth state as a period of fun and freedom. However, they forget to recognize that this stage is important and transitory – a stage between childhood and adulthood. Mistakes youth make at his stage in life could be detrimental bearing with it a lifetime consequences. For example, Youths who take to armed robbery, prostitution, drug trafficking, political thruggery, and a ll manner of violent practices carry over such nefarious activities from their youthful stage into adulthood. At adulthood they become a problem to themselves, the society and invariably their children who may take after them. What a wasted life! In fact, they are unable to build a worthwhile foundation on which to rest their future. Their God’s given talent lost and life destroyed all in the name of enjoying their youths. In Paul’s letter to Timothy, he admonished Timothy in these words: Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue Righteous, faith, love and peace, Along with those who call on the Lord Out of a pure heart† 2Tim:22 The youthful stage when properly managed can lead to disaster. You read "Challenges of Youths in Our Contemporary World" in category "Essay examples" All youths should heed to Paul’s admonition to timothy. Flee from all evil desires and run after righteous. Many of our youths are compromising with worldly ideals. Compromise with the world brings corruption. It destroys the child of God’s testimony and makes his light grow dim. Learn from David and Joseph, the way to upright living. The youth is being influenced and challenged today in the following areas: 1. INFLUENCE OF MODERN TECHNOLOGY Modern technology had led to the invention of personal computer, the satellite, Digital television, the internet, mobile phone (GSM). These devices had in no small measure made the world a global village. However, the challenges facing our youths (Christian youth) is how to use them without abusing them. The truth is that these devices rather then being used for the advancement of knowledge which is capable of making the world a better place have become powerful tools in the hands of Satan for the perversion of morals. For example, the computer has both simplified and speeded up the operation in many fields of human endeavor – data storage, medicine, architecture, music and broadcasting industry. These are interactive computer software for learning of virtually any subject. The mobile telephone has made communication easy. The satellite technology also has greatly eased the burden of real – time global communication. The internet is a great source of information, Books; encyclopedias on any subject, theses, revise, online news, libraries are now available on the internet. Various school activities which were manually carried out in the past, such as purchasing of admission forms, payment of school fees, access to course outlines, result etc are now done online. Sources of information and different educational operations are now available on the internet. However, one must not lose sight of the evil associated with these devices (internet, GSM and computer). Many (including children, youth and even older people) are introduced to do world of deceit, indecency, immorality crime, sexual perversions, violence and many other vices through the use of these inventions of modern technology. The computer and the internet have more damaging influence on the youth. Youths spend long hours watching digital videos (DVD) or playing violent, even bloody and demonic computer games. Some youths spend hours or the whole night browsing forbidden site on the internet thereby getting exposed to inappropriate materials, such as pornographic and erotica because some youth get initiated into Satanism, Spiritism and other esoteric region. The TV and internet have taking over the place of the bible and prayers in a good number of homes. Youth treasure their wide exploration of the internet in place of reading their books and other intellectual activities. This a leading to a dramatic decline in the academic performance of the youth and a high rate of unproductively of the youth in all spheres of life. Wise parents should rise up to this challenge, and set up corrective measures to arrest this trend of self – destruction of the youth. 2. THE FILM INDUSTRY Many youths spend long hours watching the television denying themselves of meaningful activities that will promote heathy living and advancement in life. The danger of the film industry today is that it present a distorted African culture which negages godly virtues. For example, pre-marital sex is against God an abominable thing in African culture, but the film industry today presents it as the norm and what must follow or be part of a relationship. Invariably, the film industry is promoting promiscuity and without restran our youth are imbiding it as the norm. Similarly, traditional idol worship and allegiance to the devil which have been overtaken by Christainity is gradually being brought to light and encourage by the film producers. What about movies dominated with violent operations?. This negates God peaceful co-existence among men. Parents must therefore rise up to control what their children watch on the television. 3. NEGLECING OF HARD WORK Many youths want to go the easy way of life. No work but wants to be rich. They wish for success in life without paying the price of diligence. You need to see the coutless number of youths at the cyber cafe, browsing the internet looking for innocent preys to devour of thir hard earn money. Some Pentecostal pastors are not left out in the craze for prosperity through miracle galore at the expense of diligent labour. 4. SEARCH FOR GREENER PASTURE Many youths run the risk of searching for illegal means to go out of this country for better life. Experiences of those who attempted leaving this country reveal the agony many had to go though traveling through waste land to cross over to their â€Å"promised land†. In the process many had lost their lives and their sense of value of life. Those who made it to their dreamed land are out their doing menial jobs and worst still are out into crimes of various degrees. 5. Domestic Problems Many youth are confronted with Domestic problems ranging from hostility from parents, strife between their fathers and mothers, parents inability to provide the basic necessities of life. Youths from such homes run away from home, get involved in all forms of crimes such as 419, armed robbery, thuggery, prostitution or hired assassions. Parents should wake up to their responsibilities and make sustainable plans for their children. 6. INDECENT DRESSING AMONG YOUTHS We have been wonderfully made by God. Praise the Lord! Let us trace our dressing to the Garden of Eden. When Adam and Eve sinned against God, they realized that they are naked. They sewed fig leaves together to make themselves aprons (Gen3:7). This covered only a part of their bodies. This is fact was not proper clothing and so the Lord God made for Adam and his wife garments of skins and clothed them. This implies that the lord God covered their nakedness. Therefore, any clothing that does not cover the body fully is an indecent cloth. Let us also consider the demoniac in St. Luke’s gospel Chapter 8 ;26-35). The demon possessed man was naked. The bible described him as â€Å"a man from the city who had demon; for a long time he had worn no clothes, and lived not in a house but among tombs’. With encounter with Christ Jesus, he was delivered from the legion of evil spirit, he was clothed and he was in his right mind† (Luke 8:35). This implies that only people who are not in their right mind would go about without clothes not big enough to cover their nakedness. The modern day christains especially youths are without estrain imbiding and embracing worldly principles, values, culture and customs without making refence to the word of God. The bible says: â€Å"Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man loves the world, the love of the father is not in him. For all that is inworld, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the pride of life is not of the father, but is of the world†. I John2:15. Unholy attitudes or worldliness has become the culture of the church. Some church members tell you what you wear does not matte, after all religion is in the heart. However, they forget that there is a link between the state of man’s heart and the outward appearance. In fact, one’s outlook is greatly influenced by the condition of the heart. It is not uncommon today to find different kinds of immodest and indecent dressed worn by the majority of young people and some older people in the society, even in the church of God. These ladies wear transparent and body hugged clothes under the guise of fashion and civilization. In fact, you see girls of cheap and easy virtue wearing provocative or seductive apparels that partially expose sensitive reas of their bodies such as breast, navels, abdomen and thighs, such youth are not left out in their heavy make-ups. Their make-ups are so excessive and outrageous that the girls are not less than masquerades and cannot but be mistaken for prostitutes. Why would a Christain woman or lady imitate Jezbel? â€Å"When Jehu came to Jezreel, Jezebel heard of it and she painted her eyes, and adorned he r head and looked out of the window† 2King9:30. Some ladies dress in such way that they stimulate lustful desires in men. The harlot dresses shamefully only to advertise, comete and seduce the opposite sex. They wear revealing clothes which create in men some immoral desires. Mini-skirts are symbolic of those ladies who want to seduce men. Every mini-skirt is a fuel that sets the mind of a man to imagine the most debased thoughts. On the other hand, ladies who are seductively dressed are more likely to be harassed by men. In the actual sense, a lady who is immodestly dressed is simply adverstising herself, telling the male folk that she is available. No wonder, today that the rate at which women are raped is exceedingly alarming. The men folk are not left out of this craze for fashion. They fry their hair (jerry curls or perm0, weave their hair, wear earring, leave their shirits unbuttoned, exposing their beareded chest, have funny styles of hair cut, apply make up just to prove themselves as â€Å"senior guys†. 7. Sexual Immorality/ Fornication Many youths do not see sextual immorality/formation as sin. They see it as a way of expressing their love to a person of the opposite sex. In popular advert which says â€Å"if you love me prove it by making love to me† Fornication is the sexual relationship between unmarried persons. God condemns fornication; Do you not know that your body is a temple of he Holy spirit, who is in you whom you have received from god? You are not your own, you were received with a price. Therefore, honour god with your body (1cor 6:19-20) Anyone who destroy the temple of the Holy spirit which you are will face wrath of God. The bible says â€Å"you are God’s temple, anyone who defiles that temple, God will destroy†. Some youth who engage in fornication (pre-marital sex) tell you they are in search of happiness, pre-marital sex has brought shame, disgrace and to many, unfulfilled destiny and untimely death. According to Ibid: Pre-marital sex has many adverse effects surrounding it. By so doing expose themselves to many risks such as: pregnancy, abortion, death, death, veneral disease, fear, shame, disrespect, sterility, uncompleted career are grievous sins against God, your creator. These are what we risk ourselves for, Just a mere pleasure which does not last. Similarly, punch Newspaper had on one of its publication pointed out that †Pregnancy is just one of the ways one can reap on unpleasant harvest from fornication†¦ It is better to avoid pre-marital sex†. 8. Wild Ambition Youths, no doubt are very ambitious. Being ambitious itself should be commended. But when the ambition becomes obnoxious, wrong signals are elayed. It is not uncommon today to find youhs engage in all manner of nefarious activities that are opposed to Christain virtues in a bid to acquire great wealth, fame and success. They are usually recruited as political thugs, fake drug peddlers, armed robbers, hostage takers, murderers, assassins while others become cultists, prostitutes and so on. Some become involved in dubious and undefiled business. The bible tells us to flee from all appearance of evil. Whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are good report; if there be any virtue and if there be any paise, think on these thing (1 Cor10:31. Phil 4:8) Do not get involved in any activity that is contrary to the tenents of God. Anything contrary leads to hellfire. 9. Peer Group Influence Many Youth have been led astray by those they regard as friends. The influences of peers can bring about a positive or a negative change in one’s life. But today, such influences have been found to destroy the lives of those who keep had company. Thomas Martin as reported by Stan Ilo had this to say â€Å"What can be more dangerous to youth than bad company; what more fatal to all moral rectitude and feeling than influence of bad example. Bad company ruins good moral. It will be highly recommended youths can be involved in authentic friendship. John Chidi once classified friendship into 3: 1. Friendship based on unity 2. Friendship based on Sexual pleasure 3. Good griendship Youth should be encouraged to get involved in good friendship I =n which a man and a woman can be close friends without any sexual intercourse whatsoever. 0 Foul Language, noisy Music, Obscene Dance, pornography Music is an ancient means with which God’s people adored, exalted His Holy name and praised his majesty. This is still God’s expectation from us today. However, Christain music of today has assumed a new dimension from what obtains in the bible. Most Christain music today are emotional, sensual and noisy. The musical instrument soun d than the wordings as obtained in worldly music. Such songs do not give any inspiration, and it lacks modesty and moderation. So also is the obscene dance that accompanies the music. Flee from such music and from every apprearance of evil. 11. UNEMPLOYMENT There is a high rate of employment in this country. Many youths who had managed to go through thick and thin to obtain a university degree or other degrees are out there on the streets roaming about in search of anything to do for living. His has been the concern of both youths and their parents. Many parents have lost inetrest in investing into education of their children. This has increased the number of youths without any formal education or vovational training. One sees them in high dense areas/cities milling around motor parks, marj=ket places, in hide outs, practically doing nothing meaningful. Their daily existence depend on how much they can steal, extort from people or just waste away. Some engage in menial jobs that can hardly take care of them, while others become preys in the hand of evil men who take advantage of them by providing debase jpbs such as drug trafficking, prostitution. The self employed are faced with problems of generating power for tjose whose jobs require electricity. The question is, for how long then can we watch the leaders of tomorrow waste away. We all must rise up to this challenge and fight corruption, injustice that have premeated into the whims and caprices of this nation. 12. Marriage Many youths today are faced with the problem of getting a wife or a husband. This could be attributed to a number of factors such as parental influence or control, self, sin and the devil. Youths becomes so obsessed with their inability to be married that they now abadom God. To every man there is a wife and to every woman there is a man. Therefore wait on the Lord, and He will provide. THE WAY FORWARD In handling the problem of our youth and the difficulties confronting them in this perverse generation, parents, churches, society and the youth themselves have specific roles they must perform to bring sanity to our world. Let us reflet on the role of the youth themselves. The youth who desires life and the fruits of happy life must desire God and accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour. Seek first the kingdom of God and all its righteous and all other things will be added unto you (Matt. 6:33). To the youth who had turn away from the Lord, I say â€Å"come back with a repentant heart and the Lord will receive and have you back as his own. Repentance involves: a) Admitting your weakness, being sorry for your weakness b) Renouncing your weakness The Lord tell us in Issaiah, â€Å"come now let us reason together, says the Lord through your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow. Though they are red like crimson, they shall become loke wool† (Is. 1:18) Go for sacramental reconciliation. Having regained your relationship with God, He wants you to live a spotless life even in this era of godlessness. You are to stay unpolluted and unperturbed in the constantly changing world where you dwell. The unchanging God will substain you, for he has said. :For I am the Lord, I change not† (Malachi 3:6). This implies that God’s children have no excuse to allow themselves to be swayed by the rapidly changing world around them. What is expected of the youth therefore according to the word of God is outlined as follows: 1. The youth must treasure the unaltered word of God in his heart, life and mouth, civilization or no civilization. 2. He must constantly and diligently with prayer guard his soul so that he is not overtaken bythe whirlwind of globalization and modernization. . Must be resolved to live a holy life. This involves daring to be different with a resolution not to look back. 4. Depend on the grace of God. Paul tells the Ephesians, â€Å"for it is by Grace you have been saved through Faith and this is not from your selves, it is a gift of God (Eph 2:8) In the sane vein, Jesus tells us in Jn15:16 not to rely on our own strength but yo abide on the Vine 5. Invite the Holy spirit, the sanctifying power of God into your life. It is the spirit that gives life. In all thid fullness, live in the spirit. So I say, live by the Spirit and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. For the sinful nature desires swhich is contrary to the spirit and the spirit which is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that do not do what you want† (Gal5:16-17) 6. Associate with thos who love and fear God. Meditate on the passage â€Å"Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? What harmony is there between Christ and Belial? What does a believer have in common with an unbeliever? What agreement is there between the temple of God and Idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: I will live with them and walk amongthem, and I will be their God, and they will be my people† 7. Plunge into unlimited opportunities: The Lord urges us to plunge ourselves into unlimited opportunities that he has set us. Like Joshua, He was to be strong, courageous and to observe the word of God. Joshua did as God commanded and he prospered. Today God is saying to us that he has given us great opportunities to succeed in life and have all our needs met. However, many go through life dejected, defeated, defrauded, dominated and at the end doomed. you are a child of God. For success to come your way, start now. Do not be idle. You can still go back to school and get education; you can re-write your papers and improve on them. Are you unemployed, apply to place no matter how little, or you can create a job yourself. You need not suffer, the sky is the limit. Finally, do not stay away from sacraments (Eucharist and the Sacrament of Reconciliation). Heaven is real. What shall it profit a man if he gains the whole world and suffer the loss of soul. How to cite Challenges of Youths in Our Contemporary World, Essay examples

The solution on Myers Holding Ltd - Corporate Social Responsibility

Question: Discuss about the Corporate Social Responsibility for Myers Holding Ltd. Answer: Introduction Myer is considering as the biggest departmental store group of Australia and it has been closely associated with fashion and style for over 100 years. Over this time, it has also played a very crucial role in the life of all Australians that is from the international merchandising fashions and methods during the depression, celebrating fashion and establishing a memorable, ever changing, and retail experience. The company has a value footprint of around 66 stores in prime retail areas across Australia that is accompanied by its well-recognized brand and assisted by its recently developed digital, mobile, and online platforms (Myer, 2014). This combination facilitates a leading Omni-channel experience for the customers so that they can shop with the company. For this reason, Myer had generated $3.1 billion of total sales in 2014. Myer is a relevant employer and pursues a long history of local engagement of communities and philanthropy. It focuses on providing inspiration to everyone i ncluding customers, 54000 shareholders, 12500 team members, and around 1200 suppliers internationally. The merchandise offered by Myer comprises of eleven key categories of product that are mens wear, womens wear, childrens wear, intimate apparel, youth apparel, fragrance, cosmetics and beauty, electrical goods, home wares, footwear, handbags and accessories, toys and general merchandise (Myer, 2014). Mission Statement Myer aims to provide highest standards of service to the general people and it ensures to consistently meet and surpass the shopping anticipations of the customers. It also focuses on the maximization of shareholder value through its strategies. The company wants to make fuller utilization of its opportunities and therefore it continues to invest so that it can position itself at the front line of a quickly changing retail environment. Furthermore, it also focuses on strengthening its Omni-channel strategy, innovation of customer service, optimization of its exclusive brands strategy etc so that operational capabilities and importance can be delivered for long-term sustainable development (Myer, 2014). Myers vision As a market retailer in Australian retailing, its new owners, Newbridge/TPG, Myer management team and the Myer family, are reinvigorating the company. A crucial part of this journey includes the investment in the Myer brand so that the values and vision of its founder and the Myer family can be an international-quality retail business can effectively offer inspiration to each and everyone with a dynamic vision of the future for Myer. In the current scenario, Myers management is on right track through a well-articulated and clear strategy to develop the business globally (Myer, 2014). Triple Bottom Line Reporting (TBL) There is a growing requirement that businesses have a vital role in assisting Australia to become more sustainable. At Myer, sustainability is defined as a responsible business development and growth that addresses and considers the economical, social, and environmental impacts (TBL) of its strategies and operations. As a result, it is responding by minimizing its environmental risks and impacts by adhering to the compliance requirements of NGER (National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting) Act (Myer, 2014). For example, Myer reports publicly on minimization of greenhouse emissions, assessment of energy usage and energy saving opportunities. The company purposes to enhance the positive results and influences affixed on the stakeholders like investors, customers, suppliers, creditors, environment etc through its triple bottom line reporting. When such stakeholders consider social and environmental performance of the company in the investment and purchase decisions, they obtain robust inf ormation on the companys performance. Furthermore, when Myer reports on social and environmental performance, it achieves benefits like increased reputation, retaining and attracting staff etc that obviously adds to its financial bottom line. Concern for social and sustainable issues Myer wants its team to survive for the better performance of the company as a whole. It wants that its team members be filled with positive morale so that they do not feel bad about coming to work. Therefore, Myer had introduced a social group named as 800Thrive as a concern for social issues. In order to establish a sense of community, this group helps in organizing fun ways so that the team members can interact with each other apart from the day-to-day business activities. Myer also assists in protecting the rights of workers so that a better environment can be created. It has also established a whistleblower policy that encourages employees to report against immoral practices or breaches of its code of conduct. In relation to concerns for sustainable issues, the corporate commitment towards sustainability is clearly observable in the publicly disclosed standards of performance of the company like those provided by its GRI (Global Reporting Initiative). It follows the G4 index of s ustainable reporting that provides an effective understanding of its performance to the stakeholders. Furthermore, it reports about energy use, greenhouse emissions, and recycling of materials so that environmental impacts can be managed for long-term sustainable development (Myer, 2014). It also assures of International Standards Organization (ISO 31000) in its risk management framework so that strategies are frame to identify, evaluate, manage, and monitor risks consistent with AZ/NZS standards. General Financial Information The full-year sales of Myer had been very encouraging in the year 2014 but due to huge investments in the year, its performance and profitability were adversely affected. Moreover, on a comparable basis, Myer had obtained an increase of 1.2% of sales in 2014 that stands at $3143 million. Its NPAT (Net Profit after tax) reported a 22.6% decline in the year 2014 that indicates a drop in its operating gross profit and a formerly identified enhancement in cash CODB (cost of doing business). The operating gross profit margin reported a 57 basis point decline because of effect of the depreciation of Australian Dollar on the company, its exclusive brands, and investment in development of products. The cash cost of doing business of the company also grew by 3.3% and stands at $1033 million due to annualisation of variation in its store wage penalty structure as per the Fair Work Act and intended investment in labor hours of its additional stores. Considering the firm balance sheet and powerf ul cash generation of the company, it has decided to pay a fully marked final dividend of 5.5 cents per share that makes dividend for the whole year to 14.5 cents per share. On a whole, this portrays a dividend payout ratio of around 86% for the year 2014 that makes Myers confident for the upcoming years (Deggan, 2011). Financial Analysis Key Highlights and comparison with the previous year Particulars 2014 2013 percentage change ($) ($) Net Profit 98542 129887 -31.8 Total Assets (a) 19,32,664 19,39,705 -0.36 Total Liabilities (b) 10,39,251 10,34,063 0.5 Total Owners Equity 8,93,413 9,05,642 1.35 Dividend per share 16.6 21.6 23.1 Earnings per share 16.8 21.8 -22.9 Net Cash Flow from Operating Activities 1,91,576 2,25,525 -15.1 Net cash flow from financing activities -95232 -115157 -20.92 Net Cash Flow from Investing Activities -1,04,250 -66,956 55.7 As per the information provided in the above table, a fair estimate can be provide that the net profit decline by 31.8%. This indicates that the performance of the company dipped which is not a good indicator in terms of competition and performance. Further, the total assets declined and the liabilities increased which is not a good combination (Christensen, 2011). Cash flow from operating activities reduced indicating that the operations did not matched the last year performance and hence, a shortfall (Brigham Ehrhardt, 2011). Profitability Analysis Net Profit Margin 2013 2014 Net Income 1,29,877.00 98,542.00 Sales Revenue 31,44,904.00 31,43,027.00 Net Profit Margin [(Net Profit after tax/Sales Revenue)*100] 4.13 3.14 Gross profit Margin 2013 2014 Gross Income 13,04,530.00 12,85,870.00 Sales Revenue 31,44,904.00 31,43,027.00 Gross Profit Margin [(Gross Profit /Sales Revenue)*100] 41.48 40.91 In the profitability analysis, the major emphasis is on the gross profit margin, as well the net profit margin. As per the ratio computation, we can see that there is a decline in the gross profit margin and this can be attributing to an increment in the cost of sales (Horngren, 2013). The decline in net profit margin is due to the enhancement in the cost of overhead for the company like administration and selling expenses (Albrecht et. al, 2011). Liquidity Ratio Liquidity Ratio FY2014 FY2013 Changes Current Ratio 0.9 times 0.9 times NA Quick Ratio 0.14 times 0.17 times 0.03 times Cash Flow from Operations Ratio 0.48 times 0.57 times 0.9 times When it comes to liquidity, the major emphasis is on the current ratio, quick ratio. Liquidity analysis projects the ability of the company to repay the debt and meet the obligations. As per the analysis it is seen that the current ratio is stagnant that means the company has the same potential of the year 2013. It is not close to the standard ratio of 2:1 (Brealey et. al, 2011). This means that the current assets and liabilities varied in the same proportion. Hence, the same ratio is observed. However, the other two ratios, the quick ratio, and the cash flow from operations ratio indicates that both the ratio declined and is nowhere close to the base ratio (Horngren, 2013). The liquidity is weak and the management needs to take strong actions to improve it. Financial Gearing Analysis Financial Gearing Analysis 2014 2013 Percentage change Gearing Ratio 36.3% 36.1% 0.2% Interest cover ratio 131 times 129 times 3 times Financial gearing analysis projects the riskiness of the business (Brigham Daves, 2012). The gearing ratio is not very high for the company indicating that the company has persisted on consistency. This ratio implies the long-term lenders contribution to the capital structure of the long-term scenario. Hence, from the gearing analysis it can be predicted that the company is not a risky venture and hence, investment can be pour in it (Kaplan, 2011). The risk profile of the company is low which is a major advantage and will attract shareholders because the major concern always remains of the riskiness of the business (Graham Smart, 2012). Efficiency Analysis When it comes to efficiency analysis, average inventory turnover period, settlement period for debtors, asset turnover period. As projected from the table, the ratio has not shown a huge change and the difference comprises of few days that can be disturbed by a few debtors or creditors, as it is average ratio (Fields, 2011). The efficiency remain unchanged that operates the performance is in line. Efficiency Ratio 2014 2015 Difference Average Inventory Turnover Period 93 Days 95 Days 2 Days Average Settlement Period for Debtors 4 Days 3 Days 1 Day Asset Turnover Period 225 Days 224 Days 1 Day Comparison with Competitor Myers has a strong competition with the Target Corporation and some of the financial aspect of Target will be use to shed light on the functioning and operations of both. On the very first instance, it can be said that Target is a bigger concern and hence, the assets composition is huge and so the liabilities, equity, etc. As per the comparison, we can see that the liabilities composition in the total assets comprises of 66.2% whereas Myers constitutes only 53.8%. However, EPS and DPS are both negative in numbers for Target meaning it is incurring losses. This sheds light on the fact that the bigger companies face losses but the operations never discontinue (Choi Meek, 2011). However, as per fundamentals and overall scenario, it will be better that Myer will be selected as it has an edge over Target. Particulars Myer Target Difference Total Assets 1,932 41,404 (39,472) Total Liabilities 1,039 27,407 (26,368) Equity 893 13,997 (13,104) EPS 16.8 (258) 274.8 Ordinary Shares Issued 99 (1,205) 1304 DPS 16.6 (256) 272.6 EBIT 160 4,761 (4,601) Corporate Social Responsibility Myer aims to establish a socially responsible business by combining sustainability into its day-to day activities. It recognizes the significance of a meaningful and powerful CSR program. Its CSR initiatives include the following: Customers- Myer continues to develop several strategies so that its customers can be satisfied with the services provided and it rewards them for their faithfulness because they are consider very important for the success of its business (Albuquerque et. al, 2013). In the year 2014, Myer introduced a customer feedback initiative so that its quality of service can be evaluated. Such members of Myer one can provide feedback based on their experience through digital technology. Team members- Myer aims to establish a motivating and rewarding workplace that assists age, language, gender, and cultural diversity. In 2014, it gained a retention rate of around 75% and women comprised of 79.6% of the total members (Myers, 2014). Development and capability services are provided to team members through various courses. It also recognizes and rewards members based on their performance through recognition strategies. Myer gives safety concerns through safety hazard management, safety committees, awareness of team members etc. Even the LTIFR reduced from 14.5 since 2010 to 7 in 2014. Community- Myer continues to establish relationships with local communities and in 2014, it contributed around $2.3 million to them. Since 1924, the Myers Stores Community Fund assists disadvantaged youth, children, and women (Myer, 2014). For such purposes, the team members are offered $600,000 volunteer hours. Myer also supports fitted for work community partnerships by providing clothing donations, mentoring etc for disadvantaged women. Myer and Salvos Stores collectively introduced a national initiative for motivating customer-clothing donation for minimizing textile waste and enhancing clothing recycling. Environment- In 2014, Myer reported a 2.9% decline in energy usage through reporting requirements and system upgrades. It also minimized carbon emissions by 5% in comparison to 2013. For packaging stewardship, it purposes on minimizing consumer packaging and pursuing recyclable materials. Its Floor Ready Program aims to enhance packing design and minimize waste and in 2014, more than 70% merchandise complied with such floor ready requirements. Business- Myer aims for highest ethics, integrity levels in its operations and every member are bound to comply with its code of conduct, and they are inform about the prevailing whistleblower policy (Fields, 2011). In relation to ethical sourcing, Myer aims to produce merchandise in safe conditions where workers rights are respect and environmental effects are managing (Davies Crawford, 2012). Myer also pursues a shrinkage minimization program that purposes to lessen its losses. Furthermore, Myer assures of the quality and safeness of products provided and in 2014 such checks depicted a conformance of 95%. Conclusion The above report clearly implies that Myers is lacking in few ratios while in others it has remained unchanged. However, going by the current movement it can be commented that the management of Myers needs to lay stress on the ratio like liquidity that is one of the significant ratios when it comes to meeting the obligations. The other financial performance are just average and needs attention. However, on the social and environmental concerns Myer also complies with the Global Reporting Initiative (G4) requirements that assist it with easy and tangible methodologies so that its performance can be measured against the prime environmental indicators. This remains one of the unique factors in establishing a strong company. References Albrecht, W., Stice, E. and Stice, J 2011, Financial accounting, Mason, OH: Thomson/South-Western. Albuquerque, R., Durnev, A., Koskinen, Y 2013, Corporate social responsibility and firm risk: theory and empirical evidence, Boston University. Development Economics, vol. 5, no. 1, pp. 49-54. Choi, R.D. Meek, G.K 2011, International accounting, Pearson. Myers Holdings 2014, Myers 2014 Annual Report and accounts 2013, viewed 13 September 2016, file:///C:/Users/HP/Downloads/financial_report.pdf Brealey, R., Myers, S. and Allen, F 2011, Principles of corporate finance, New York: McGraw-Hill/Irwin. Brigham, E. Daves, P 2012, Intermediate Financial Management , USA: Cengage Brigham, E.F. Ehrhardt, M.C 2011, Financial Management: Theory and Practice, USA: Cengage Learning. Choi, R.D. and Meek, G.K 2011, International accounting, Pearson . Christensen, J 2011, Good analytical research, European Accounting Review, vol. 20, no. 1, pp. 41-51 Davies, T Crawford, I 2012, Financial accounting, Harlow, England: Pearson. Deegan, C. M 2011, In Financial accounting theory, North Ryde, N.S.W: McGraw-Hill. Fields, E 2011, The essentials of finance and accounting for nonfinancial managers, New York: American Management Association. Graham, J. Smart, S 2012, Introduction to corporate finance, Australia: South-Western Cengage Learning. Horngren, C 2013, Financial accounting, Frenchs Forest, N.S.W: Pearson Australia Group. Kaplan, R.S 2011, Accounting scholarship that advances professional knowledge and practice, The Accounting Review, vol. 86, no.2, pp. 367383.

Friday, May 1, 2020

Conflicts arise in the Workplace-Free-Samples-Myassignmenthelp.com

Question: Discuss about the Conflicts arise in the Workplace. Answer: Introduction: Respect is one of the most important features of a healthy productive work environment. In a proper functioning work environment every person has a specific job to perform and subsequently every person feels important and a contributor in the success of an organization. In such situations the employees feel valued by their employers and everyone is treated with a sense of fairness and dignity which helps in diffusing potential chances of conflict and stress. In case such a positive work environment is maintained, in difficult times like termination or disciplinary issues the employees can accept situational change positively and might avoid litigation or disruption of workflow. However the lack of respect in the workplace can have a toll on the employees. Work environments which are toxic have chances of leading to decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, high staff turnover, severance packages and even law suits. The challenges in this regard are that there is no clearly articulated legal duty on an employer to treat any particular employee with respect. There are laws for protection but no specific rules to denote what should be the exact behavior at the workplace. Increased instances of toxic work environments and problems in the workplace are a cause for concern and lead to issues which need to be prevented at all times. The discussed scenario: According to the case study provided, there were complaints regarding the morale issues in the workplace. A toxic work environment was discussed based on the employees and their concerns about existent favoritism were also mentioned. The issues of problems between the supervisor in the office and his boss were mentioned. Repeated change of staff and replacement of inexperienced staff for experienced ones were also mentioned resulting in the increased amount of workload and lesser productivity. The issue of favoritism was also mentioned which had a bad impact on the employees and resulted in an increased disinterest towards their work. All these issues contributed to the toxicity of the work environment and damaged the repute. Thus the mentioned issues need to be resolved to maintain positivity and in order to retain the employees. Power struggle: One of the most important issues which have been mentioned is that of a power struggle between the supervisor and his boss. The issues also persisted after the boss left and a new person came. Power struggle is a type of interpersonal conflict which might harm the company. The interpersonal conflict is not uncommon and is because of high competition and variable personalities of the persons that the power struggles arise (Forsyth). In cases when such power struggles are experienced by the other subordinate employees it is better that they step in the struggle and never take sides but try to bridge the gap. The interruption by a third party in certain cases might lead to a thoughtful and understanding approach by both the parties and the conflict might be resolved. No matter whatever the position of the employee who wishes to intervene, it is imperative that he or she steps in for management of the conflict. An appeal should be made to both the supervisor and the boss to reconsider their differences. A combined appeal should also be made to them on behalf of all the employees in order to resolve the conflict of the supervisor and his boss (Saundry, Richard and Wibberley). There needs to be a proper training program or sessions need to be conducted in order to train the supervisors to control and deal with different types of employees (Hillman). Distribution of Workload: Improper distribution of the workload is another issue in the workplace. It is the responsibility of the managers and the supervisors to be clear and concise about their work expectations and focus more on the optimal work performance and best individual achievement rather than divide work unequally which might lead to complacence of the employees. The managers should be trained in order to develop strategies for delegating tasks. The managers should also be trained to improve the performance of the weak employees rather than giving important work to the others and making the weak ones under confident about their work. A work culture of proper team work and collaboration needs to be encouraged (Forsyth). Unbalanced workload needs to be avoided by reviewing the total workload for a project as well as the amount of time required to complete it. It needs to be checked which members handle specific tasks and then the knowledge also needs to be accessed. There needs to be a rough workload redistribution plan based and additional input plan. There should also be a revaluation of the given workload at any instance of time for any sort of imbalance (Hillman). Favoritism: Favoritism in the workplace is extremely common and harmful for the work culture. The family members might be favored, or specific employees might be favored. This is harmful for the culture of the workplace. Favoritism highly influences the sentiments of the people and makes them questions their abilities. This should not be encouraged at any costs. The employees need to be trained and ordered to handle such favoritism and remain undeterred in their work. The first thing the employees need to do is to behave normally even after finding that their boss is favoring somebody else. The worst possible scenarios that is possible due to reacting and getting in the bad books of the boss need to be avoided at any costs. The employees suspecting bosss nature of favoritism needs to be trained to remain positive and act normal in order to prevent any chances of becoming least favorite of the boss (Brubaker). The next best thing that the person needs to do is to clarify with the boss what he or she is expected to do and try to get the feedback regularly. The focus should always be maintained on good performance and proper work done. The management systems should be trusted and in severe cases informed so that these can be addressed as soon as possible (Huan). The employee should also go the extra mile and influence oneself to show dedication towards work. The employee should remind oneself of the unique role they play for the company and request meetings, propose new items for the team, demonstrate respect and proper amount of appreciation for the boss as well. The employee should not get distracted by any feelings of neglect which cause more harm than benefit. The employee should take control of his or her work and make ambitions clear to the boss. Under no circumstances should any employee act emotionally. Emotions need to be kept aside and strategic evaluation of the favorites needs to be done in order to emerge as better employees. Often small favors can be asked for to garner a positive attitude from the boss. However proper research needs to be done before the matter is brought to the notice of the HR or higher authorities (Saundry). Lack of proper trust and issues with the staff with respect to the supervisors: Issues of mistrust and tension can also exist in the workplace. In case such situations arise there should always be clear and detailed instructions verbally. The spread of rumors need to be solved and clarified as soon as they start spreading in order to avoid problems of mistrust. There should be meetings which need to be arranged with those employees experiencing conflict in order to discuss the problems they are facing in the workplace. Without choosing a side they should guide a conversation to a discussion of positive conflict resolution ideas which can be discussed. The employees need to be encouraged to seek out explanations of situations which might show that there needs to be proactive interest in resolving the issues of the workplace. Conclusion: Workplace conflict exists between individuals and groups and might lead to a series of negative influence to the organization. In situations when people work together, the cultural differences, gender differences, style differences and others also occur. The resolution of the conflict and its avoidance in the workplace needs to be performed in order to increase the effectiveness for the work. The effectively managed work conflict has several positive effects for the organization and also for life. It is the responsibility of the employees in the workplace to properly tackle any possible situation that might arise and which has the probability of damaging the productivity of the workplace. The conflict management should be conducted including the steps of assessment or the stage of investigation, the acknowledgement or understanding stage, the proper attitude maintenance, the proper plan of action, the analysis of the results and finally the solution implementation. Thus it may be said that a conflict taking place does not always mean that something bad is going to happen. It also means that there might be innovation and a moir harmonious workplace. In case of a conflict in the workplace, it should not be hidden or ignored, instead it should be faced and resolved. The improved communication skill, developed emotional intelligence, respect towards others and the effort to work for the betterment of the organization are all helpful towards the avoidance of any sort of conflict References: Brubaker, David, et al. "Conflict resolution in the workplace: What will the future bring?."Conflict Resolution Quarterly31.4 (2014): 357-386. Forsyth, Anthony. "Workplace conflict resolution in Australia: The dominance of the public dispute resolution framework and the limited role of ADR."The International Journal of Human Resource Management23.3 (2012): 476-494. Hillman, Donald R. "Understanding multigenerational work-value conflict resolution."Journal of Workplace Behavioral Health29.3 (2014): 240-257. Huan, Lim Jin, and Rashad Yazdanifard. "The difference of conflict management styles and conflict resolution in workplace."Business Entrepreneurship Journal1.1 (2012): 141-155. Saundry, Richard Arthur, and Gemma Wibberley. "Workplace dispute resolution and the management of individual conflictA thematic analysis of five case studies." (2014). Saundry, Richard Arthur, et al. "Reframing Resolution-Managing Conflict and Resolving Individual Employment Disputes in the Contemporary Workplace."Acas Policy Discussion Papers(2014): 1-21. Saundry, Richard, Louise McArdle, and Peter Thomas. "Reframing workplace relations? Conflict resolution and mediation in a primary care trust."Work, employment and society27.2 (2013): 213-231.