Evolutionary Account of Female Mating Preferences

Evolutionary Account of Female Mating Preferences Introduction Evolutionary psychology has long been a dominant approach for describing and explaining the mating preferences of females. It places emphasis on the idea that women pay more attention to a male’s status, his ability to provide resources to the family, the income of this person or his education.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Evolutionary Account of Female Mating Preferences specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More More importantly, evolutionary psychology implies that women’s mating strategies and preferences are not strongly affected by culture. In my opinion, this theory does not fully account for the behavior of women. In particular, it does not explain why women choose to end their relationship with a partner. Furthermore, evolutionary framework does not account for the existing of cross-sex friendships. In this literature review, I would like to discuss empirical studies that examine attraction, changing preferences of women, and their values. These studies are primarily based on the use of interviews and surveys. These are the main themes that should be explored. Overall, many researchers believe that women’s mating strategies cannot be fully attributed only to the forces of evolution. Values Overview of the theme One of the issues that should be discussed is the values of women. Special attention should be paid to the way in which these values can change with time passing. Secondly, it is important to remember that values can be dependent on cultural background of a person. The thing is that they are closely related to mating decisions of women. Evolutionary account of female mating strategies cannot account why females can leave their partners, even if their socio-economic status has not changed. Subtheme: the change of values and the end of relationship In their article, Nasrin Abedinia et al (2012) examine the factors that contribute to divorce. One of the goals is to understand the circumstances that prompt a person to end a relationship with his/her spouse (Abedinia et al, 2012, p. 65). Their study involved the use of the structured interview, and researchers and the sample included 300 participants who were both males and females (Abedinia et al, 2012, p. 65). According to the findings of these researchers, women are more likely to consider divorce when their partners cannot meet their psychological needs (Abedinia et al, 2012, p. 69). For instance, one can mention the need for self-esteem. This is they may leave their mating partner. Similar findings have been derived by Oluyemi Stephens (2012) who also examines the perceived causes of divorce. This research was based on the interview of family counselors who worked with couples or divorced individuals (Stephens, 2012, p. 115). The sample of the study included 150 counselors (Stephens, 2012, p. 115). The results of this research indicate that the change of socio-economic s tatus is not the only reason why women want to divorce.Advertising Looking for research paper on psychology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More For example, they refer to the difference in perception of gender roles and lack of communication between partners (Stephens, 2012, p. 115). Overall, the results of these studies suggest that income or financial stability do not always play the most important role of women. The data, provided by Oluyemi Stephens (2012) and Nasrin Abedinia et al show that there are exceptions to evolutionally account of female mating preferences. Nevertheless, one should not suppose that resources and status of the male partner is of no importance to women. One can refer to the research article written by Hendrix Lewellyn and Willie Pearson (1995) who explore such a concept as spousal interdependence. These authors carried out a meta-analysis of empirical studies that examined the cause of divorc e (Lewellyn Pearson, 1995, p. 118). They have found out that women, who were financially dependent on their husbands, were less likely to divorce. Thus, the availability of resources is of great importance to women. Gender roles and power It should be noted that the values of women can greatly depend on their perception of gender roles and power of women within the family. This perception is shaped primarily by social forces. Again, one can refer to the study by Hendrix Lewellyn and Willie Pearson (1995). The findings of these authors suggest that mating preferences of women greatly depend on their social status. For example, they can value the economic prosperity of their partner more provided that they cannot maximize their wealth independently (Lewellyn Pearson, 1995, p. 225). The study carried out by David Schmitt (2005) can also throw light on the values of women. This researcher surveyed 14,059 participants from 48 countries (Schmitt, 2005, p. 247). In particular, the schola r looked at self-reports of both male and female participants. To a great extent, this research confirms the premises of evolutionary theories, because it suggests that women, who may belong to different cultures or societies, place more value on the economic status of their partners and their ability to care about children (Schmitt, 2005, p. 279). Still, the role of cultural differences should not be disregarded. In her study, Devendra Singh (2004) examines the mating preferences of American men and women whose age ranged between 19-60 (Singh 2004, p. 52). According to this scholar, women are set higher standards for their physical appearance of their partners, if they consider themselves to be attractive (Singh 2004, p. 46). These examples indicate that evolutionary biology cannot fully explain the mating preferences of women.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Evolutionary Account of Female Mating Preferences specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Theme B: Attraction Overview of the theme The discussion of female mating preferences should include such a concept as attraction. Evolutionary approach implies that women attach more importance to physical condition of the partner at the beginning of their relationship, but later they attach more importance to such factors as socioeconomic status, education, or stability. In this section, I will try to examine how women regard attraction and what factors influence their views. Sub-theme: Various aspects of attraction There are several studies suggesting that mating preferences of women cannot be reduced to the paradigms of evolutionary theory. For example, the study carried out by Andrew Lehr and Glenn Geher (2006) who interviewed 32 female students (p. 423). One of the issues that these researchers have identified is that women consistently pay attention similarity in attitudes and tastes (Lehr Geher, 2006, p. 438). If there are no common inter ests or attitudes, they are not likely to start a relationship with a male. These preferences cannot be attributed only to evolutionary forces. Additionally, I would to discuss the study done by Devendra Singh whose findings have been discussed in this paper. (2004). This researcher points out that women tend to value the physical appearance of a partner, even if one is speaking about long-term relations (Singh 2004, p. 52). Finally, one can refer to the research article written by Nasrin Abedinia et al whose findings have been mentioned before (2012). These researchers point out that women value communication, emotional attachment, and ability of their partners to meet their psychological needs (Abedinia et al, 2012, p. 65). These choices and preferences contradict the principles of evolutionary psychology that emphasizes on security and availability of resources. Sub-theme: Physical health Another aspect of attraction is physical health of the mating partner. One has to admit that women can be attracted by a partner, he leads a healthy lifestyle. Nevertheless, there are some notable exceptions to this rule. In his study, Christiaan Monden (2007) examines the health habits of married couples (p. 392). The researcher used such a method as unstructured interview in order to examine the impact of health preferences on people’s mating choices (Monden, 2007, p. 392). His findings suggest that women may prefer males who have the same health problems as they do (Monden, 2007, p. 407). For instance, the scholar points out that many cohabiting partners can have similar diseases like diabetes or asthma (Monden, 2007, p. 403). These findings do not support the premises of evolutionary psychology. They suggest that mating preferences can be very complex.Advertising Looking for research paper on psychology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Certainly, there are opposite examples. In particular, the study done by David Schmitt (2005) suggests that women are usually very concerned about the lifestyles of their male partners (p. 286). Furthermore, according to Devendra Singh (2004) for many women, physical attractiveness can be an indicator of health (p. 43). Therefore, some premises of evolutionary psychology cannot be disregarded. Yet, one should not suppose that this theory tells us everything the behavior of women. Theme C. Education Overview of the theme The education level of a mating partner is also believed an important factor for women. The general premise is women usually seek a male who have high levels of educational attainment. However, one should understand how females regard education. This discussion of these issues is important for understanding the mating preferences. Additionally, one should take into consideration that education greatly affects a person’s perception of gender roles. In this sect ion, I would like to determine whether males’ perception of gender roles affects women’s mating preferences. Equality of education level The supporters of evolutionary psychology argue that irrespective of cultural background, women choose males who are intelligent and educated. For instance, David Schmitt’s study (2005) indicates that such a pattern exists in countries that may have different cultures, political systems, or religions (p. 256). Nevertheless, this rule should be specified. Such a researcher as Christiaan Monden (2007) says that females also want their partners to have similar education (p. 392). In other words, they value equality of conditions. To a great extent, this phenomenon can be explained by the fact that women value the similarity in attitudes and beliefs (Lehr Geher, 2006, p. 438). This is why they value the equality of education. Perception of gender roles Finally, researchers note that women also pay attention to perception of gender roles. For instance, Abedinia et al (2012) point out that women usually prefer mating partners who share their views on gender roles (p. 67). Moreover, such a conflict can be observed in many countries. In his research article, Oluyemi Stephens (2012) argues that many Nigerian families can be broken because partners have a different understanding of gender roles (p. 116). Nevertheless, one should take into account that not every scholar supports this point of view. In particular, David Schmitt’s study (2005) believes that the perception of gender roles does not produce a significant effect on the mating preferences of women. Thus, some of the choices that women make can be affected by social environment, rather than evolutionary forces. Conclusion Overall, this literature review indicates that the mating preferences of women cannot be described only by the terms of evolutionary theory. In particular, one can speak about the following behaviors and values: 1) the ability of a partner to meet women’s psychological needs; 2) their willingness to live with men who have similar educational level or even similar health problems; and 3) the importance of common attitudes and beliefs for them. The studies that have been reviewed have certain strengths. Each of them is based on empirical evidence that has been accurately codified and analyzed. Secondly, these sources show the complexity of women’s behavior. Nevertheless, one should remember about the limitations of these studies. Most of them do not take into account cultural aspects of marriage. Furthermore, they do not fully explain how the change of social norms affect women’s mating preferences. There are several questions that psychologists may consider: How are mating preferences of women affected by their age? What are the cultural aspects of mating and marriage? How do the attitudes of women change their mating preferences? What are the advantages and disadvantages of evolutionary theory as an explanation for the mating preferences of women? Reference List Abedinia, N., Bolhari, J., Ramezanzadeh, F., Naghizadeh, M. (2012). Comparison of Predisposing and Effective Factors on Divorce Application between Men and Women. Journal Of Family Reproductive Health, 6(2), 65-72. Hendrix, L., Pearson Jr., W. (1995). Spousal Interdependence, Female Power and Divorce: A Cross-Cultural Examination. Journal Of Comparative Family Studies, 26(2), 217-232. Lehr, A. Geher, G. (2006). Differential Effects of Reciprocity and Attitude Similarity Across Long- Versus Short-Term Mating Contexts. Journal Of Social Psychology, 146(4), 423-439. Monden, C. (2007). Partners in health? Exploring resemblance in health between partners in married and cohabiting couples. Sociology Of Health Illness, 29(3), 391-411. Schmitt, D. (2005). Sociosexuality from Argentina to Zimbabwe: A 48-nation study of sex, culture, and strategies of human mating. Behavioral and Brain Sciences, 29 (120), 247-3 11. Singh, D. (2004). Mating Strategies of Young Women: Role of Physical Attractiveness. Journal Of Sex Research, 41(1), 43-54. Stephens, O. (2012). Student Counsellors Perceived Causes of Divorce among Couples in Lagos Metropolis. IFE Psychologia, 20(2), 113-118.

Health Sector in Ghana and Investment Opportunities Essay Example

Health Sector in Ghana and Investment Opportunities Essay Example Health Sector in Ghana and Investment Opportunities Essay Health Sector in Ghana and Investment Opportunities Essay AFRICAN LEGACY FINANCE LIMITED| ANALYSIS OF GHANA’S HEALTH SECTOR| AVAILABLE INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES| | JONAS HLOMADOR| 1/18/2011| This research document covers issues about the development of the health sector, cost/revenue analysis and investment opportunities available | INTRODUCTION The health sector of a nation is a major contributing factor to sustainable development. Issues about health policy, cost of health, health revenue and investment opportunities in the health sector are among the vital issues that are considered by any government that wants to achieve sustainable development. Among the eight international development goals dubbed (Millennium Development Goals) goals 4, 5, 6 talk about health care. These goals talk about reducing child mortality rate, improving maternal health care and combating HIV, Malaria and other diseases. Ghana is no exception. This research document captures the development of the Ghanaian health sector, a cost/revenue analysis, cost of health care, the challenges in the health sector and the investment opportunities available. PURPOSE OF THIS DOCUMENT The purpose of this document is to inform investors and other stakeholders about the * State of the health sector * Performance of the health sector * Investment opportunities available in the sector This document is first of all very informative concerning health issues. It also aims at forecasting the state and performance of the health sector in the next five years and beyond whiles highlighting areas of potentially viable investment opportunities. Further, serves as a good material for â€Å"Situational Analysis† or â€Å"Environmental Scanning† when embarking on health projects. THE HEALTH SECTOR IN GHANA HISTORY In the late 1970s, the Government of Ghana adopted the primary health care strategy as the vehicle for achieving â€Å"Health for all† by the year 2000. However the economic crisis in the early 1980s drastically reduced resources available to the health sector, resulting in deterioration in the population’s health status. Ghana then embarked on a Medium-Term Health Strategy (MTHS) that aimed to achieve â€Å"Health for all†, by improving service quality and efficiency. As the Ministry of Health (2000) states â€Å"Since 1995, health policy has been based on Ghana’s MTHS which sought to promote greater equity in access to health and outcomes. In pursuit of this objective, Ghana’s MTHS aimed at strengthening district health services, promoting community involvement in the delivery of health services, redirecting health resources to the needy or deprived areas. Although it is difficult to discern the factors that have contributed to the improvement in some health indicators, there was no doubt that the health reform had, to some extent, contributed to the improvements. Based on World Bank data, between 1990 and 1998, infant mortality decreased by a total of 16 percent while life expectancy at birth increased by 5 percent in Ghana. The HIV pandemic then surfaced in the late 90’s and early 2000,s putting more strain on health care. More funds had to be channeled into fighting this deadly disease. HIV awareness became top issue. Money had to be spent to import anti retroviral drugs. A major change occurred in the health services in October 2003. A new health bill was passed. The National Health Insurance Bill was been passed into law by the parliament of Ghana on the 2nd of October. This set up a National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), which enabled residents in Ghana to obtain, at least, basic healthcare services without paying money at the point of delivery of the service. This replaced the â€Å"cash and carry† system currently in place. The Bill also provided a policy and regulatory framework in the country for health insurance that would enable the nation to achieve the goal of equitable access to basic healthcare in relation to need rather than socio-economic or socio-cultural status The year 2007 marked the beginning of the third 5 Year Programme of Work based on the health policy developed by the Health Sector since 1995:‘Strengthening Health Systems for effective and efficient delivery of services to households and communities with a focus on improving maternal and child health outcomes’ is the theme of the Ghana Health Service Strategic Framework. This framework which aimed at driving the work of the Service for the next five years was based on the belief that the desired rapid progress cannot be made without a strong functioning health system. SECTOR OVERVIEW The institutions or organizations in the health sector can be put under two categories * Administrative, Control Regulatory Bodies * Service Delivery Organisations Administrative, Control Regulatory Bodies The health sector is managed by two offices, the Ministry of Health and Ghana Health Services (GHS). Ministry of Health is the office responsible for budget allocation and policy definition, while Ghana Health Services, with branch offices at both the regional and district levels, is mainly responsible for the implementation of the budget and policies. The MOH also provides mobile health services, including immunization and family planning, to rural residents. Salaries are distributed by the Controller Accountant General (CAG) directly to the public health personnel through the banking system. Other recurrent expenditures are mostly distributed by the District Health Offices to health facilities. In addition, nongovernment entities are also very active in the health sector. Service Delivery Organisations The Service Delivery Organisations include government hospitals, polyclinics and private hospitals clinics. Ghana also has missionary health facilities, which are mainly hospitals of limited scale and health clinics. The higher-level health providers, in ascending order, are health centers or clinics, district hospitals, regional hospitals, and tertiary hospitals. Ghana also has a network of maternal homes, although they are mainly privately owned. All these organisations are supervised and funded by the administrative, regulatory and control bodies listed above. The vision of the health sector is to create wealth through health and to contribute to the national vision of attaining middle income status by 2015. THE MARKET COST/REVENUE ANALYSIS COST OF HEALTH FINANCING There are many sources of funding for the health sector. They include * Funding by the Government of Ghana through budget allocation to the health sector * Internally Generated Funds Funds from the growth in the National Health Insurance Scheme * Health Funds * Financial Credits * MDA funds Funding by the Government of Ghana While the total allocation to health, in nominal terms, increased by 33. 4% from 2007 to 2008, the proportional Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) allocation increased only slightly by 2. 1% in the same period which results in a neutral outcome of this indicator. Based on the Budget statement of 2009, the allocation to the health sector as a percentage of the total fiscal space for 2009 was 14. %. In 2010 the allocation to the health sector was †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. The computation of the budgetary allocation to the health sector as a percentage of the national budget is made difficult by the fragmentation of budgets at both national and sector level. . It is further hampered by the significant level of off-budget funding in the health sector. With that said, allocation to the health sector as a percentage of the national budget from 2006 to 2009 is as follows MTEF ALLOCATION| 2006| 2007| 2008| 2009| MTEF ALLOCATION| 16. 2%| 14. 6%| 14. 9%| 14. 6| The GOG provides free public health services for immunization and certain communicable diseases. It also provides free health services for certain vulnerable groups such as children under 5, people over 70, and pregnant women. Internally Generated Funds The IGF are the fees collected from the patients who use the services and buy drugs provided by the health facilities. Health Funds Donors-pooled Health Funds are one of the many health funds the finance government projects. In addition, donor earmarked funds and donor-managed funds (projects) also contribute to total health expenditures Funds from Health Insurance Scheme The health insurance scheme now entered its 8th year of operation. Though there are challenges it has generally been a successful project. It seems to be serving its purpose both to the government and the citizenry as well. The wider the scope of the scheme more revenue is generated REVENUE By contrast, real health revenues (after adjusting for inflation) increased as reflected off the Financial Statements of health service organisations leveled off in 2006 and 2007 while falling in 2008. There has always been a tradeoff between quality health care and revenue generation especially in the public health sector. The public health sector has many challenges in delivering quality health care. The equipment and infrastructure available cannot support the demand for health care. The utilization of funds from the health insurance scheme in financing the health service sector has not been able to keep up with the increasing demand. Most of the substantial revenue generated from the health sector comes from the private sector where patients can access quality health. Presently the profit levels are very small. However there is potential for growth. Some challenges faced by the health sector are outlined below Challenges * Some health centre’s lack the necessary tools and devices especially for their clinical engineering unit and other vital service units * Non-computerized systems resulting in slow pace of work and health delivery. The recent computerization of most parts of the service industry has not really caught up with the health industry. * Inadequate residential facilities for health staff in certain regions. Inadequate ambulances for effective health service delivery * General lack of standby generators. The management of Millennium Development Account is doing their best to curb the challenge in this area by providing generators to hospitals to improve health service delivery. * Refusal by health professional to accept postings to certain places (e. g. the north) * Ghana’s brain drain of doctors and nurses is substantial a nd does seriously affect the capacity of the country to improve its human resource base in the health sector. Cost of Health Care Private health care is relatively more expensive since the cost of adequate medical equipments and highly trained and dedicated professional staff for delivering quality health care comes at a cost. The challenge in the private health sector is to seek to improve on operational efficiency or minimize operational cost to keep on doing business at an affordable rate. However people have become more health cautious in recent times. The health culture in Ghana is changing very fast. Ghana is by far becoming a middle income country with many of its citizenry having more disposable income. This situation has led to the demand for better health care; and consumers are looking at private health care. Cost of public health care has been fairly affordable with the help of the National Health Insurance Scheme since 2003. However the assistance offered by the insurance scheme is limited to basic health needs. Health care services outside the basic health care bracket are still a subject of concern in the public health area. Players in the public health care sector must however improve on their quality of service by motivating public health workers through the setting up of reward systems and consistent review of salary levels to meet the demand of changing times. INVESTMENT INCENTIVES GUARANTESS Ghana is a safe investment destination. Guarantees against expropriation of private investments under law are buttressed by the Ghanaian Constitution. Some investments guarantees are detailed below 1. Free transferability of capital, profit and dividends. 2. There are import duty exemptions on imported machinery for the health industry. 3. Capital allowances are granted to persons who own depreciable assets and use these assets in the production of income. Depreciable assets are grouped in Classes and the applicable capital allowance rates implemented. E. g. Computers and Data Handling Equipment have a rate of 40% 4. It has been argued that the development of information and communication technology (ICT) provides leapfrogging opportunities for developing countries. Ghana has not been left out in this revolution. According to the Data Development Group of the World Bank, ICT infrastructure in Ghana is progressing better than other low-income countries and above the 1. % average for Sub-Saharan Africa. ICT infrastructure is also very favourable although there is room for improvement. The  Kofi Annan ICT Centre of Excellence, a joint Ghana/India project has been commissioned with a responsibility to produce the human resource capacity needed for the emerging ICT industry in Ghana and the sub-region. The  Multi-Media Centre is also to serve as an incubator where new private companies in the industry can be nurtured and relocated to the Technology Parks Business Centre, which is to be set up at Free Zone enclave at Tema. These notwithstanding, various investments in ICT infrastructure by existing Internet Service Providers and telecommunication companies are helping to improve communication service delivery in the country. Others too are launching systems that aim at enhancing the provision of high-speed access to the internet and multimedia capabilities. Recently, the Government signed an agreement with Microsoft Corporation under which the largest ICT Company in the world would provide resources to improve ICT education in Ghana. Vodafone Ghana recently launched the fastest internet cafe in Africa with over 40 megabytes per second. The Vodafone internet cafe and retail store, with its WiFi area can seat up to 100 customers in air conditioned comfort plus the outdoor seating area. Top of the line graphic card and multimedia kits are also installed for those that love online gaming. The new Vodafone Internet Cafes Retail stores are located in Cantonments, Accra North, Accra Central, Accra Mall, Tema, Kumasi, Koforidua, Ho, Tamale and Takoradi . The effect of all these has been the modest growth in ICT activities in Ghana. A host of foreign companies has been attracted to Ghana. Some of these are Affiliated Computer Services, Data Management International Inc. , Rising Data Solutions, Global Response, Busy Internet, AQ Solutions and Supra Telecom. Indications are that a lot more are in the pipeline. GHANA’S COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE * Availability of Skilled Professionals Doctors, nurses, lab technicians and other workers are highly skilled professionals with many years of experience who are very good at their job. There are policies that govern the work of health professional to ensure that the life a patients are safe guarded against in experienced new junior doctors in special service areas. Improved Academic and training Institutions The University of Ghana Medical School, The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, The Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital and The Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospitals are well known institutions that are noted for churning out quality doctors, lab technicians and other health professionals. There are many nursing training institutions the supply the health sector with quality nurses and paramedics * Peace and Stability in Ghana Ghana has a very stable political climate. * Developed Legal and Regulatory Environment Ghana has a relatively developed legal and regulatory environment compared with neighboring countries. * Macro Economic Policies The macroeconomic policies of the government are designed to accelerate the progress of growth and transformation of the economy under competitive conditions * Excellent Work Force As previously said, the work force includes highly skilled and experienced professionals who are very good at what they do. There are also systems that help to improve the efficiency of this work force * Availability of fund sources There are many sources of funding in the health sector as stated above. They incude health funds, funds from government budgetary allocation, internally generated funds, MDA funds, financial credits and funds from the national health insurance scheme. * Availability of land There is adequate land availability to put up more health service facilities and centers. * Foreign Ownership Foreigners are allowed to own substantive equity share s in hospitals and clinics countrywide. * High Safety Standards Investing in Ghana is very safe due to the highly stable political environment for nearly 30 years. INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES ICT infrastructure and Computerization in the health sector The recent ICT integration in most service sector industries is yet to take a full swing in the health sector. Investment opportunities are there for investors who want to supply health centers with software and hardware needs that will speed up work and improve the quality of delivery. As stated earlier, such investors will benefit from tax incentives and investment guarantees the government has provided. The initial capital for a comprehensive ICT enablement of private hospital project ranges from GH? 10,000. 00 to GH? 40,000. 0 depending on the scale of work and the equipments, resources and materials used (computers and other network gear, level of technical knowhow of IT contractors and other environmental factors such as computer literacy level of hospital staff among others). Establishment of Competitive Private Hospitals Clinics The work load on the government hospital units are too much for public health service wo rkers. Investors with adequate capital can invest in private hospital ventures that are well managed and work at achieving high operational efficiency while incurring low operational cost. The capital requirement for an ideal ultra modern hospital or clinic will range from US$8 million to US$15 million depending on such factors as size of clinic/hospital, diversity of delivery services, number of equipments to be stocked etc. With adequate corporate finance advise investors can obtain returns in adequate amounts and with these cash flows occurring within adequate time frames whiles minimizing risk of the whole investment to acceptable levels. Establishment of Specialized Clinics Recently, acupressure and acupuncture clinics are taking a significant stage in health care delivery. They offer curative and palliative treatment to their target groups who are mainly the aged in society and the affluent. The Spa service companies are also there for people who can afford a little luxury. There are a few of such spa services companies already in the system. They are making significant profit (e. g. Allure Ghana Spa Services). The Capital requirements for such projects are very varied depending on the scale/size or the project. It ranges between US$10,000. 00 to US$20,000. 00 for a typical start up. With a thorough situational analysis and business plan, investors can invest in such ventures and make significant gains Importation of Pharmaceutical Drugs Though the health insurance covers the purchase of some drugs, the pharmaceutical industry makes billions every year selling drugs that are not covered by the NHIS. Building Of Nursing Training Centers Private nursing training schools are also very good investment areas. More than ever before there is an increase in the shortage of nurses across the world, and this trend is expected to even become worse. Ghana needs more nurses for her health services. Every country needs nurses. Almost every country is scrambling to find and keep them. The International Council of Nurses notes a shortage that spans the world. As of 2009, U. S. medical facilities were in need of an additional 100,000 nurses. By 2012, there could be up to 1. 1 million unfilled nursing positions in the United States. Australia, the UK, and the US receive the largest number of migrant nurses to fill the employment gap in the health sector. Australia received 11,757 nurses from other countries between 1995 and 2000. The U. S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) records show that more than 10,000 foreign nurses were given H-1A visas to enter the United States within the same time frame. Saudi Arabia also depends on the international nurse supply with 40 nations represented in its nurse workforce. In only four years, the U. K. admitted 26,286 foreign nurses from 1998 to 2002. Netherlands needed to fill 7,000 nursing positions in the year 2002, England needed to fill 22,000 positions in the year 2000, and Canada will needed about 10,000 nursing graduates at the beginning of this year 2011. Meanwhile tens of thousands of Ghanaians especially the youth seek non existing employment opportunities as many students application for admissions are turn down year after year by nursing training institutions. Ghana stands to gain tremendously if stake holders in education, health, Employment and Social welfare and society can deploy a program to train more nurses for the countrys healthcare facilities and for export to other countries where there are increasing shortages of nurses such as UK, Austria, Norway, Japan, Australia, Netherlands, and Saudi Arabia. A nurse in Ghana earns between $3,600 and $4,800 annually after tax but with rising transport and food costs, many are forced to take on a second job in private health and then to work back-to-back shifts working between 15 and 18 hours a day. As of 2002, salaries for registered nurses in the United States were around $48,090, with the top 10% earning more than $69,670. Salaries for Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVNs) were around $31,440 with the top 10% earning more than $44,040. The working period for both RN and LVN is 6 hours and a nurse who works at two jobs earns a double of these salaries. International recruitment and nurse migration are increasingly being seen as solutions to nursing shortages. Historically, nurse migration has been mostly opportunistic or based on individual motivation and contacts. During the past decade, however, active large scale planned international recruitment has occurred with developed countries recruiting nurses from both other developed countries and developing countries. In addition, developing countries are recruiting from each other, even within the same geographic region according to the International Council of Nurses. Currently there are 10 public nursing training colleges accredited by the National Accreditation Board in Ghana. These are Government sponsored institutions and trained nurses from these institutions would be required to serve the country for 5 years before they can have the release of certificate for them to work abroad. This is because in theory a nurse wishing to work abroad would have to produce a certificate as proof of qualification and so until any fine has been paid, the Health Ministry can withhold the certificate. There are good business prospects for Private Nursing Training Outfits that can develop recruitment programs for their trained nurses to work abroad while such nurses pay a percentage of their earning to the institutions once they are gainfully employed outside. Foreign or local investors with huge capital who are ready for long term investments can look into Private Nursing Training Projects. Importation of Hospital machinery The import duty exempt and the high demand for hospital machinery make investments in such ventures very lucrative and profitable. Government Partners to improve quality of service in the public sector The sources of funding to the public sector is in adequate to support the needed pace of growth. Investors with substantial capital can partner with government to undertake developmental projects in the public health sector that aims at improving the quality of service. CONCLUSION The health sector is a vital part of a nation’s development. Adequate and feasible policies which will help improve the sector attract investor interest and eventually ensure a steady and significant development of the sector.

How has the cultural identity of China responded to and adapted to Essay

How has the cultural identity of China responded to and adapted to contact with foreigners - Essay Example Evidently, this goes to show that despite the achieved modernization of China in its economic, socio-political state of affairs, among others, it proved to the world that it has truly maintained its cultural identity. Maybe one inquisitive critic would like to know the factors how China kept its culture through all these years amidst the salient events that led to the great transformation of China from what it was before, having a weak economy, to what it has become today, a sprawling economic giant in East Asia and these are the issues which this paper intends to present. China’s achievements all these years may be traced from a number of significant events in its history that involved politics, culture and economic reforms that shaped China’s destiny and these can be viewed separately in four phases. First phase involved Ancient China. In its early beginnings, China started to be governed by feudalism and monarchy altering one dynasty after another. In fact, â€Å"it was the Han dynasty which was considered the East Asian counterpart of and contemporary of Rome’s golden age rule† (Cultural Essentials 2004). â€Å"Ruling China for more than 400 years was reasonable enough to expect that it left lasting legacies in China and to the world like the invention of the first ‘paper’ and the adoption of Confucianism. ... â€Å"This probably explains why it was so difficult then for China to accept modernization.† (Wu, J. n.d.). It was also during the â€Å"four decades of Mao Tse Tung’s rule and his declaration of ‘self-reliance’ marked the deepest period of withdrawal from the international economy.† (Schenk 2006). â€Å"Contacts with the outside world were treated as risks to come with political destabilization; economic exploitation and cultural subversion thus, must be totally restricted and regulated† (Harding 1993). It took so many years for the traditional China to keep its state of affairs closed from the Western world. The third phase begins with Western intrusion to China’s affairs whereby there were sporadic internal uprisings opposing to foreign encroachments, for example the â€Å"Opium Rebellion in 1839-1842† (Ebrey, 1993) and â€Å"Boxer Rebellion in 1900† (Rosenberg 2013). â€Å"Milestones also occurred between 1899-1900 w hen US Secretary of State John Hay first initiated the ‘Open Door Policy’ through Notes†( US Department of State, n.d.) which actually was a scuttle for concessions in China, so to speak ,among superpowers. This was also the period of Cultural Revolution as well as the momentum when China opted to adopt new economic and political reforms. The fourth phase is Contemporary China. Presently, China sprawls as the largest country in East Asia dealing with approximately almost â€Å"1.4 Billion people† (China: World Statistics 2013). Finally, it was during â€Å"the era of Deng Xiaoping that changed the course of the world by steering China’s class-oriented revolutionary struggle into tangible, economic development† (Chihua & Lin 2007). â€Å"Actually, it was considered a period of sustained reforms under his leadership† (Kau &

Machiavelli's view of human nature in The Prince Essay

Machiavelli's view of human nature in The Prince - Essay Example Machiavelli's view of human nature in The Prince In chapter 15, Machiavelli writes, â€Å"men†¦and princes†¦, are remarkable for some of those qualities which bring them either blame of praise† (Machiavelli, 1961). The princes show those characters that will not deprive him of his state. In this case, men follow what brings them benefit even if it is a vice – â€Å"it will be found that something which looks like a virtue, if followed, would be his ruin; whilst something else, which looks like a vice, yet followed brings him security and prosperity.† Being in the highest position of the land, and with the highest authority, the prince should put in effect policies that will serve his best interest (Machiavelli, 1961). This shows that Machiavelli supported any action of princes that will give them satisfaction, even if it will hurt the citizens. He believed that the prince’s followers are sometimes unreliable, and the prince might lose their loyalty. This is indicated in chapter 11: â€Å"For such a prince cannot rely upon what he observes in quiet times, when citizens have need of the state, because then everyone agrees with him; they all promise, and when death is far distant they all wish to die for him; but in troubled times, when the state has need of its citizens, then he finds but few† (Machiavelli, 1961). The prince should therefore ensure that at every moment citizens are in need of the state, and they will always be faithful to him.

Strong relationships Essay Example for Free

Strong relationships Essay Dreams can be described as reflections, unconscious wishes, and a by-product of mental house keeping or interpreted as a brain activity. Guiley (1998) says, â€Å"Dreams are the inner powers that project out creativity which has changed lives†. All these descriptions may be true or false depending on which type of the dream that has occurred during the night. In is interesting that a greater percentage of dreams occur at night. Then the question is why do many dreams occur at night? Noticeably, this it the time of resting and every body part or organ rest or relax. This means organs like the heart, lungs and the brain do not rest but they relax. Therefore, this time of the day, that is during rest some crucial brain activity goes on and in many occasions it is a reflection of what might have happened during the day. There are many types of dreams, some of them turn out to be nightmares where some people may walk at night, others scream and few have lucid dreams for instance some people dream of playing football and they throw legs at night as if they are kicking the ball they had watched or they had played during the day whereby some end up kicking anything near them only to be awakened and find they are not injured. Other dreams may be about relationships especially among lovers. Parker (1999) says, â€Å"There is believe that the mind consists of three things that is the ego, the super ego and the id. The unconscious side that is the id consists of instinctive drives called pleasure principle† et al Freud (2001) agrees, â€Å"that most desires expressed in dreams are sexual†. This is may be the reason why people experience sexual arousal and wet dreams. There are strong relationships between physiological theories and psychological theories. It has been concluded by the scientists that many dreams occur during the Rapid Eye Movement (REM). Every person dreams, right from the toddlers or infants to the aged but dreams differ. This means a teenager’s dreams may not be same as of the elderly dreams. Averagely everybody dreams every night but the intensity of the dreams differ depending on the reflective stance of the brain at that time. Time is also a factor for dreams, some dreams are short and others are long winded depending on the time taken in dreaming. Parker (1999) observes that, â€Å"a dream takes roughly 30- 45 minutes and those awakened during the REM are able to remember or recall their dream at that moment†. Some dreams are so vivid that they can be revealed immediately a person wakes up. Many of the dreams are forgotten before or immediately a person wakes up. Them memory plays an integral role on dream remembrance as Christos (2003) concurs, â€Å"Neural network models suggest that memories are constantly competing with each other, they change with time and some memories are easily displaced† Dreams are extremely important in many ways, for instance, prophets during the ancient times were able to discern events to come and or befall people or a community through dreams. Lukeman (2001) says that, â€Å"in some dreams, we tap into prophecy and other kinds of information that cannot be known in the ordinary sense. † Parker (1999) agrees that, â€Å"whether old superstitions can help you see the future is questionable but a great deal of empirical evidence suggest that dreams can be prophetic. The most interesting dreams of the future can come through a phenomenon called lucid dreams. † A good number of musicians confess that their greatest musical hits appeared in dreams at night. One day I dreamt on how to manufacture a pistol and if I had the time I could have drawn the sketch just the way I saw it in the dream but unfortunately three day passed and I forgot the whole sketch. The dream came about after one of the family members had regularly thwarted my good plans to go overseas for further studies. So, I was extremely annoyed and I could think of any way to eliminate him. Luckily I did not do it and today the family member is a good neighbor. This dream falls under the psychological theory. I had suffered psychological torture after losing a golden chance to go overseas for further studies. Therefore good things produce good dreams while bad and stressful things cause bad or evil dreams. Conclusion Dreams are essential for psychological and physiological aspects of life. Lukeman (2001) says, â€Å"Dreams are crucial to every day health and well being. Studies have shown that bizarre things start to happen when people are prevented from dreaming. Things like confusion, exhaustion and physical illnesses start to manifest. † References: Christos, G. (2003). Memory and Dreams: The Creative Human Mind. New York: University of New South Wales. Freud, S. (2001). On dreams. New York: Dover Publications. Parker, C. H. (1999). The Hidden Meaning of Dreams. Carlsbad: Sterling Publishers Guiley, R. H. (1998). Dreamwork for the Soul. Boston: New York: Berkely Trade Publishers. Lukeman, A. (2001). What Your Dreams Can Teach You. New York: M. Evans and Company Inc.

The Spherical Image as the Central Paradox in Valediction: for Weeping

The Spherical Image as the Central Paradox in Valediction: for Weeping    In John Donne's "A Valediction: for Weeping," the speaker consoles his lover before leaving on a sea voyage and begs her not to cry.   Crying, the speaker tells his lover this poem at the docks before he boards his ship going abroad.   Donne uses a spherical image as the central metaphor in his poem. When Donne uses irony, paradox, and hyperbole including the use of round images such as: coins, globes, and tears he strengthens the spherical conceit.   By comparing two "seeming" opposites like tears and love as his conceit, Donne uses the spherical image as the central paradox in "A Valediction: Of Weeping."        Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Donne opens the poem with the speaker crying while talking to his lover before his departure abroad.   His first spherical images are in the first stanza,   and they are tears and coins:      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   "Let me pour forth   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   My tears before thy face whilst I stay here,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   For thy face coins them, and thy stamp they bear,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   And by this mintage they are something worth," (1-4)    Both the coins and his tears have "worth," literal and figurative values respectively.   His tears fall from his face because he hurts for leaving, something no amount of coins can pay to alleviate. Like coins being stamped out of a sheet of metal, his tears are pressed from his eyes.  Ã‚   Because water reflects her image and tears are made out of water, the stamp image has a double meaning too.   The tears equal the lover.   The mintage mentioned in line four has an expanded meaning.   A set of pressed coins is a mintage as is the set of the speaker's tears, but the impression on the coin (the lover's face) can also be a mintage.      ... ...he other's death." (26) As they sigh, their sighs create wind which upsets the water.   The rough water, on which the speaker is sailing, could drown him.      Ã‚  Ã‚     Donne's mastery of comparison allows him to create an in-depth metaphor comparing spherical images to two lover's love.   He uses some of the same images as he does in his other poems for example: holy love and tears in "The Canonization," spheres in "A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning" and "The Sun Rising," and two worlds becoming one in "The Good-Morrow" and "A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning."   Also in the other valediction poem Donne includes the line "No tear floods, nor sigh tempest move." (6) This idea is mentioned in   "A Valediction: Of Weeping" too.    Donne uses the simple round images to symbolize a deeper meaning coupled with metaphor and paradox to create a complex love poem.   

Describe how health and safety is implemented in your setting

The policy states that they as a school they do not administer medication to children as most medicines are 3 times a day and it possible administer this without the schools help. However if it is required then parents/carers must complete a permission slip for this to happen. All medication is kept in the school office. Treatments for something life threatening such anaphylactic shock, parent must have completed a consent form to allow a named and trained member of staff to administer should it be necessary. There is a school medical register and a copy of this is in all classrooms.Accident reportingThe policy defines that all accidents must be reported to the headteacher and also to the health ans safety co-ordinator. Any accident must also be written in the accident book which is in line with a council policy. It states that the accident must report the following detail name and address of injured person time, date and place the accident occurred what happened what injury it was t reatment given any witness information and finally any other information that is relevant If the child involved has had a bump to the head, a letter is sent home that day and the child would have a red dot sticker on their collar to alert the parent/carer.Chemical safety The most hazardous chemicals found in school are used by the caretaker. These are kept in a locked cupboard and only a small quantity is kept in school. They must always be in the original bottle and never in food or drinks containers. Chemical data sheets for such substances are kept in the office and offer advice on protection needed for using each chemical and the procedure for accidents with chemicals or in case of fire. Conduct and behaviour around school Children are made fully aware of how they should behave in and around the school through the use of school and also classroom rules.Any behaviour that is unacceptable is dealt with according to the school behaviour policy. Children are required to walk within the school, open doors carefully, line up inside the classroom quietly to await further instructions and ensure that their belongings are stored safely on their peg to avoid trip hazards. During playtime, the children are expected to be aware of people and their surroundings, know that they are not allowed to climb on walls/fences, play in areas that are not play areas for example the toilets and not to lift each other up, even during a game. Electrical safetyElectricity is one of the most dangerous things within the school and most people know how dangerous it is. The following points are the main part of the policy and are adhered to all times all portable appliances are electrical tested staff must visually check equipment before use and any faults at any time must be reported to the headteacher and site manager no one in school is permitted to work on electrical items there must be no trailing cables and if using 4 way gang adapters they should be secured by the wall so not to c reate a trip hazard all fixed electrical items are to be tested every 5 yearsFire safety The first action required in the policy is, if you discover a fire to sound the alarm at once. It states that if you are free to do so, use the appropriate fire extinguisher to tackle the fire however you must not take a personal risk. If the continuous sound of the fire alarm is heard teachers and children are well practised at following the procedure which is practised at least once a term. During the fire drill the headteacher will record the time it takes and it is in the policy that St Luke’s ensure that a complete evacuation is done within 2 minutes.The class teachers remain responsible for getting the children to the assembly point, whilst the teaching assistants check all areas of the school and the office is responsible for calling the fire brigade should it be necessary. Each classroom has a fire exit which is to be kept clear at all times, fire exit sign, the blue fire notices, and exit route map must be next to the door for all persons to read. The site manager has responsibility to carry out regular fire inspections and take any action needed. The school has an electrical fire system which is regularly checked by an approved contractor.First aidThe school aims to have at least 4 members of staff who have all attended a 3 day first aid course and where possible to have all other members of staff attend a 1 day training. First aid should be carried out when necessary by a qualified first aider but it should not prevent someone helping if the situation requires. A list of first aiders is situated around the school in places such as first aid room and staff room. It states that all members of staff including supply need to know who the first aiders are. There are first aid kits within school and they are kept up to date by the nominated first aiders.The school also has portable first aid kits for trips and visits away from the school grounds. The policy sat es that if a serious incident occurs such as unconsciousness, severe allergic reaction, suspected fractures etc. , 999 must be called along with the parents immediately. Food safety It is stated in the policy that before any food handling by the children can happen that written permission must be given from the parent/carer. The school has a no nut policy. When doing a food activity, the school highlights that the children need to be taught basic safe food handling and procedures.The children are encouraged to do the following wash their hands, tie back their hair and remove watches etc. to remember not to touch their faces while working with food wear aprons wash hands at the end of the activity work in small closely supervised groups Food hygiene standards must be followed to ensure that food is stored correctly and that the guidelines within the policy are followed. Helpers in classrooms The school welcomes parent helpers to help with all aspects of school like and to assist the teacher where necessary.They must be willing to pass on their details so that security checks can be carried out to maintain the safety and security if the children within the school. At each time on visiting the building they must sign in and out and wear the correct badge that is always visible. Any helper must ensure that they report to the class teacher anything they deem to be inappropriate or unsafe. PE Safety Children are required to dress appropriately according to the dress code specified for indoor and outdoor PE.The children are also expected to abide by the rules, some of these are as follows no running unless instructed to do so  children must participate in the warm up and cool down session children are able to use the apparatus under close supervision mats are to be carried by 4 children the children will learn the clear STOP procedure and obey when told by the teacher, this consist of STOP said by the teacher with a hand signal and then all children will sit on the floor. The policy also sates that teachers will dress appropriately for sport and wear sensible;e footwear when teaching PE. Playtimes According to the policy, there will always be 1 teacher and 1 teaching assistant on duty for playtime.They are to ensure they stand so that they have the best view of all of the playground so that the children are monitored carefully. Any accidents that happen will be dealt with by a first aider. Risk assessment The risk assessment record is held in the school office. They are carried out by the headteacher, health and safety co-ordinator and the group organiser of an off site activity. The risk assessment outlines any potential hazards, who could be affected and how, and also the measures needed to take place in order the make the activity as safe as possible.Road safety The school aims to develop and promote road safety to its pupils. Children are encourage d to use the school crossing patrol and other pedestrian crossing available. The children a t school are never allowed to leave school on their own unless written consent from the parent has been received. All children must be collected from school at the end of the day by a responsible adult or a nominated older sibling. Children are advised about the dangers of not wearing a seatbelt in the car and are asked to remind others to do so.Technology safetyThe policy states that a safe and controlled environment must be available for children to use the internet and computers safely. It is the staff responsibility to ensure that children are taught to use the equipment correctly and carefully supervised throughout. This policy also refers to children using equipment relating to design technology and the tools that they may be required to use for a specific project. Again all tools mus be stored safely, the children must receive precise instructions on how to use the equipment provided and be closely monitored throughout.Learning valuesAt St Luke’s school the children le arn through out the school day using the following learning values:1. Faith in me. 2. Spirituality 3. Interdependence 4. Creativity 5. ThinkingThe school states that this policy is designed to enable the school to run efficiently and be able to assist the pupils learn effectively.

In the Devil’s Snare Essay

There have been several interpretations of the Salem Witchcraft Crisis of 1692. Like every issue that has come up, everyone has their own take on it. Mary Beth Norton chose to lay out her version of the witchcraft trials in her book, In the Devil’s Snare. It is a tremendously ambitious book. Throughout the book, Norton is trying to lay out connections between the experiences of settlers in Maine, the accusations of the afflicted in Salem, and the actions and decisions of the colony leaders. I’ll admit, I don’t know much about the Salem Witchcraft Trials, if anything at all. I had the choice of reading The Crucible in high school, but I turned it down and chose to read a different book. Therefore, I really had not choice but to believe Norton when she said that her approach to examining the witchcraft crisis was a new one. Instead of looking at events case-by-case, she starts at the very beginning (the first whisper of an accusation) and moves chronologically through the entire episode. When it was needed, Norton would pause to add background information. Mary Beth’s point of view of the Salem Witchcraft Crisis is that it all was triggered by from the results of the Indian Wars. She believes that the only way this crisis could be understood, is if you looked at the military conflict between the English settlers and the Native Americans from that region. By the specific attention paid to Tituba, Martha Corey, and Abigail Hobbs, Norton shows how these individuals contributed to the linkage between the witchcraft crisis and the military conflict with the natives. In my opinion, I think Norton’s conclusion should have been put at the start. This is where she explains her thesis, which was that witchcraft crisis of 1692 was in large part a reaction to King Philip’s War and King William’s War, clearly and concisely. Mary Beth does a good job at connecting the participants to the Wars; however I don’t think she’s very convincing when it came to showing how the lack of military and leadership in the w ar was a driving force to the creation of the Salem Witchcraft Trials. Mary Beth Norton’s, In The Devil’s Snare, was very well written piece of literature. I commend her on stepping outside of what other authors had written about and creating her own version of the Salem WitchCraft Crisis of 1692. Norton has a substantial amount of supporting material that she’s gotten from other sources. The amount of the research involved to write her 304 page book is quite impressive and is ultimately breathtaking. I can only imagination how time consuming it was to lay out all the researched material and piece it together with her side of things. Just the thought of management needed to piece this book together gives me a headache. However, all this information did make the book less interesting to me. To be honest, I don’t think I’ve ever picked up a book that had 86 pages of endnotes! It made the book a drag because I had to continuously keep flipping back and forth between the story itself, and the side notes. Sometimes a reader can get away with skipping the end notes; however, I felt it was necessary to going back and forth because if I didn’t, I don’t think I would have understood most of it. Sometimes Norton’s side notes helped clarify what I was reading. All in all, In The Devil’s Snare was a decent book. I don’t think I ever found it really interesting at any point, nor was there a place that made me want to keep reading and not push the book aside for a little. My recommendation to others would be limited. This isn’t a book I would recommend to those that want something to read in their free time. I feel like all of her background information, and the tedious amount of flipping back and forth would put many people to sleep. I had a hard time reading more than 30 pages at a time! I think the only people I would recommend this book to would be those who take certain interest in this time frame of history. I think this would be a book they’d like, just because it’s given at a different angle.

3 Strategies for Finding a New Job in 2015

3 Strategies for Finding a New Job in 2015 The last noisemaker has been blown, and the final piece of confetti has been cleared away. 2014 is gone, and the year ahead beckons with equal degrees of uncertainty and promise - particularly for job seekers looking to make a change in the new year. Consider these three essential strategies when positioning yourself to find the job of your dreams before 2015 makes its glittering exit. Make the Most of Your â€Å"Passive† SearchAccording to a recent survey, a staggering two-thirds of employed Americans are open to new employment opportunities. Known as passive job seekers, this portion of the population - 110.5 million people, to be exact - represent an increasingly important part of the hiring process.If you’re dragging your feet on putting out feelers because you don’t want to alert your current employer that you’re looking or if you just don’t have time to devote to a full-time job search, the latest websites and mobile apps do the work for yo u. It’s no longer about sending out a bunch of resumes in the hopes that one will end up in the non-shred pile. Instead, it’s about an intuitive process through which your skills and characteristics are matched with the needs of a particular employer. This saves time for both entities, and increases the odds of a successful fit.Be Prepared To Show Them What You’ve GotSkills on a page are one thing, but real-world ability to solve problems and inspire innovation? That’s more difficult to judge. Job hunters entering the market in 2015 should be prepared for human resources professionals who are attempting to look beyond their on-paper qualifications in order to determine how they’ll meaningfully integrate into the workplace.From on-site simulations to phone interview assessments and challenges, these â€Å"tryouts† mimic the responsibilities of a role in order to offer hiring managers a clearer picture of how a candidate’s skill set tra nslates to the real world.By thinking of these tests as an opportunity to show off your skills, you can position yourself to make a positive impression. And these tryouts don’t just benefit the employer: they also give job seekers the chance to vet a potential employer, in return.Use Your NetworkSocial media is here to stay as an increasingly popular means through which job seekers find employment. In fact, a full half of job seekers use social networking when looking for new jobs.But we’re not talking about using Facebook or LinkedIn to bombard your contacts with pleas for employment. Rather, it’s about establishing yourself as a consistent and appealing presence.Consider this: nearly 40 percent of employers screen potential job candidates through social media. Does your social media presence say what you want it to say? If not, now is the time to determine your message and start communicating it through multiple channels. Of course, this means removing any neg ative or unprofessional photos and comments, but it also means the opportunity to nurture your professional relationships.Participating in industry-related groups, job boards, and forums give you even more of a chance to position yourself as a thought leader - a sought after skill set by today’s forward-thinking employers.The brave new world of job seeking may be different than it was 50, 25 or even five years ago, but applicants willing to adapt and evolve are likely to see promising results in 2015.

Homiletics Definition and Examples

Homiletics Definition and Examples Homiletics is the practice and study of the art of preaching; the rhetoric of the sermon. The foundation for homiletics lay in the epideictic variety of classical rhetoric. Beginning in the late Middle Ages and continuing to the present day, homiletics has commanded a great deal of critical attention.But as James L. Kinneavy has observed, homiletics isnt just a Western phenomenon: Indeed, nearly all of the major world religions have involved persons trained to preach (Encyclopedia of Rhetoric and Composition, 1996). See Examples and Observations, below. Etymology:From the Greek, conversation Examples and Observations: The Greek word homilia signifies conversation, mutual talk, and so familiar discourse. The Latin word sermo (from which we get sermon) has the same sense, of conversation, talk, discussion. It is instructive to observe that the early Christians did not at first apply to their public teachings the names given to the orations of Demosthenes and Cicero, but called them talks, familiar discourses. Under the influence of rhetorical teaching and the popularizing of Christian worship, the talk soon became a more formal and extended discourse . . ..Homiletics may be called a branch of rhetoric, or a kindred art. Those fundamental principles which have their basis in human nature are of course the same in both cases, and this being so it seems clear that we must regard homiletics as rhetoric applied to this particular kind of speaking. Still, preaching is properly very different from secular discourse, as to the primary source of its materials, as to the directness and simplicity of style whi ch become the preacher, and the unworldly motives by which he ought to be influenced.(John A. Broadus, On the Preparation and Delivery of Sermons, 1870) Medieval Preaching ManualsThematic preaching was not directed at converting the audience. The congregation was assumed to believe in Christ, as the vast majority of people in medieval Europe did. The preacher instructs them about the meaning of the Bible, with emphasis on moral action. Just as dictamen combined features of rhetoric, social status, and law to meet a perceived need in writing letters, so the preaching manuals drew on a variety of disciplines to outline their new technique. Biblical exegesis was one; scholastic logic was anotherthematic preaching, with its succession of definitions, divisions, and syllogism can be regarded as a more popular form of scholastic disputation; and a third was rhetoric as known from Cicero and Boethius, seen in rules for arrangement and style. There was also some influence from grammar and other liberal arts in the amplification of divisions of the theme.Handbooks of preaching were very common in the late Middle Ages and Renaissance. No one o f them, however, was widely circulated to become the standard work on the subject.(George A. Kennedy, Classical Rhetoric Its Christian Secular Tradition. University of North Carolina Press, 1999) Homiletics From the 18th Century to the PresentHomiletics [in the 18th and 19th centuries] increasingly became a species of rhetoric, preaching became pulpit oratory, and sermons became moral discourses. Less bound to classical rhetorical models, zealous fundamentalist and 20th-century homileticians adapted various inductive, narrative-based sermon strategies derived, respectively, from biblical models (jeremiad, parable, Pauline exhortation, revelation) and theories of mass communication.(Gregory Kneidel, Homiletics. Encyclopedia of Rhetoric, ed. by T.O. Sloane. Oxford University Press, 2001)African-American PreachingAfrican American preaching, unlike some of the straitjacket preaching of traditional Eurocentric homiletics, is an oral and gestural activity. This does not mean that it is not an intellectual activity, but in the tradition of African American preaching and the language of the Black church, the activity of the limbs contributes to the meaning of preaching by creating a dialogue with the self and the hearer. This is a critical, albeit ancillary, element of African American preaching and often helps to make the more substantive theological and hermeneutical ingredients more palatable because they become integrated into the whole preaching process.(James H. Harris, The Word Made Plain: The Power and Promise of Preaching. Augsburg Fortress, 2004)Active voice is more alive than passive.Dont use a 50 ¢ word when a 5 ¢ word will do.Remove unnecessary occurrences of that and which.Remove unnecessary or assumable information and get to the point.Use dialogue for added interest and life.Dont waste words.Use contractions where appropriate.Verbs are more alive than nouns.Accentuate the positive.Avoid the literary sound.Avoid clichà ©s.Remove forms of the verb to be whenever possible. Rules for Contemporary PreachersHere . . . are the Rules weve come up with for writing for the ear. . . . Adopt them or adapt them as you see fit. And with each sermon manuscript you write, pray the Lord will make you clear, concise, and directed toward the needs of your flock.(G. Robert Jacks, Just Say the Word!: Writing for the Ear. Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, 1996) Pronunciation: hom-eh-LET-iks

Marcus Mosiah Garveys Movement Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Marcus Mosiah Garveys Movement - Essay Example According to the report findings Garvey visited Ecuador, Costa Rica and Panama, where he worked as an editor for some radical newspapers, during the early moments of service. Garvey’s keen interest in Africa and that of its history came about after his visit to England, where he mingled with several African nationalists. In a number of the countries that Garvey visited, he acknowledged that the black man was on inferior levels, subject to the continuous changing ideals of stronger races. The writings of Booker T. Washington on â€Å"Up from slavery† also contributed greatly to the interventions that Garvey sought to bring. His endeavors got a boost after meeting a Sudanese-Egyptian supporter of Africa self-rule, Duse Mohammed Ali, who employed him, thus ensuring his interaction with other black activists. As the the essay stresses the organization appealed to the black community to return to Africa for the development of a great nation. He knew that until this was attainable, Africans had to make themselves economically stable and independent in their respective areas of residence. He further encouraged black communities to start their own business in the various ghettos that they dominated. In accordance to his basic principle and the belief that each race had to see God through its own racial eyes, Garvey together with Archbishop George McGuire started the African Orthodox Church. Official announcement of the Black Madonna and the Black Christ then took place in the UNIA convention of 1924.

Navy Seals Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Navy Seals - Research Paper Example nd air.) My stance on this paper will be that the NAVY Seals are a viable, necessary part of the Modern military not only in history but today as well they are a much needed force in today’s wars to combat terrorism and conflicts (Navy Seal History, N.D.) In the Second World War when Japan attacked Pearl Harbor, America wanted to retaliate, however they were facing unknown, unseen enemies. Their soldiers became the target of landmines and other hazards. Thus the need of a force was felt which can clear the ground for the forces and comeback with enemy intelligence. They were called Naval combat demolition units. They underwent heavy training focusing mainly on physical endurance. Their training included carrying heavy leads, running, swimming and maneuvering small boats. Later they came to be known as Underwater Demolition Teams (UDT). In 1961 when an ally of America was fighting with an ally of Russia, US wanted to help his or her own ally. The Navy felt the need of a Special operations Unit building on the basis of UDT. Hence, Navy Seals was born. Their primary task was to clear the way for the Navy, obstruct enemy communication and destroy enemy ammunitions. (Obringer, Navy Seal History, N.D.)Â   The US Navy Seals are approximately 2200 in numbers, worldwide and they have special divisions within them who specialize in a particular territory. SEALS risk their lives and as per their motto of serving the country first and not individuals. They are called quiet professionals because most of their missions are highly secret and they cannot discuss their lives even with their wives. They get special training for in water demolition and scuba diving as most of their operations are in and around water-bodies. This is of strategic importance because in today’s world majority of the population in cities live within close range of water bodies. SEALS fight enemies of US all over the world. It can be a task to free hostages, or fighting with terrorists all over the