Analysis of Social Movements in the Egyptian Revolution

The Egyptian Revolution can undoubtedly be considered one of the significant events of the 2011. However, even after three months since the 18-day revolution, people are still unable to determine whether or not this revolution will bring about positive amends to Egyptian society. Having said that, the Egyptian Revolution has shown to be a convenience to many sociologists, as it offers a promising case study on social movements. Throughout this three-month revolution aftermath, it has become clear that the January 25th Revolution has brought about symptoms of virtually all sorts of social movements. In the typical sociological perspective, social movements are collective efforts to bring about social or political change. Characteristics of a social movement include it being goal-oriented, having a unified ideology, and having an organized, sometimes bureaucratic, system. Social movements can be characterized by the type of change they promote. There are six major types of social movements: expressive social movements, progressive social movements, resistant social movements, reformative social movements, revolutionary social movements, and utopian social movements. Expressive social movements attempt to change individuals, rather then directly trying to change institutions or laws. Evangelical groups and Alcoholic Anonymous groups offer examples. Members of such movements believe that because institutions are people-created, they can only be changed by changes in people. Progressive social movements attempt to improve society by making positive changes in institutions and organizations. The Labor Movement and Civil Rights Movement exemplify progressive social movements. Resistance movements, rather than advocating change, seek to hold it back and keep the status quo. For instance, an example of this type of movement is the anti-gun control movement. Reformative social movements attempt to make a major change to some aspect of society or politics in general. For instance, efforts to end the death penalty, or efforts to apply gun control in a society are considered reformative social movements. Revolutionary social movements advocate a radical shift in the fundamental structure or practice of a society. Such types of social movements tend to involve violence. Almost all revolutionary social movements arise when a specific segment of the population is strongly oppressed or generally dissatisfied with the society they inhabit. Examples of revolutionary social movements include the American Revolution, the French Revolution, and the Bolshevik Revolution. The last type of social movement is the utopian social movement. Such movements seek to create an ideal social environment from an image of a perfect society. They tend to reject violence as a method to gain its goal. Examples of such revolutions include Gandhi’s Peaceful Revolution and the counterculture movement in the United States in the 1960s and 1970s. First and foremost, the Egyptian Revolution, according to its name, can obviously be categorized under a revolutionary social movement. During the 18-day uprising, people, people assembled in the now distinguished, Tahrir Square, for a simple, yet drastic agenda. They called for the resignation of the President as well as his staff, substantial amendments to the constitution, and a promise for a democratic nation that grants its people their human rights. The protestors remained devoted to their aims until they eventually had them fulfilled. The fact the protestors’ agenda was realized makes the January 25th incident a revolution and not a revolt. Furthermore, unlike in reformative social movements, participants of the Egyptian Revolution called for drastic change in the ruling system. Reformative social movements tend attempt to gain rights and protection for some segment of society without changing other aspects. The Egyptian Revolution brought forth a change to the whole system. Furthermore, among the participants of the Egyptian Revolution, there were undoubtedly protestors that exemplified the symptoms of a utopian social movement. Evidently, many of the protestors zestfully chanted â€Å"Selmeya! Selmeya! † (Arabic roughly meaning, â€Å"Remain peaceful! †). Despite the eventual violence and chaos that emerged in streets all around Egypt, there is sufficient evidence to prove that many protestors did in fact call for non-violent demonstration. After the resignation of President Hosni Mubarak, symptoms of other social movements began appearing. For instance, having had their nationalist spirit replenished, many citizens took part in expressive social movements to better themselves and abide more strictly to their moral codes. Such campaigns can easily be observed by watching the television, as there have been many advertisements urging Egyptians to take better care of their nation. Additionally, progressive movements sporadically appeared after the resignation of the 83 year-old President. After the ouster of the President, minority groups in the population, such as the Copts, began calling for better treatment by the government. Also, groups that were previously subjugated by the government, specifically Islamist groups, began appealing for the Islamic amendments they asked for before. Such groups eventually came up with more stringent demands, that their progressive movements became reformative movements. For instance, the Copts who protested at the State’s ‘Maspiro’ building initially called for better conduct towards Coptic Christians in Egypt, however they eventually began calling for the change in the article of the constitution that states that Egyptian law is mostly derived from Islamic ‘Sharia’a’ Law. Ultimately, it is without a shadow of a doubt that the Egyptian January 25th revolution brought about the trend of desiring change. Hence, Egypt is commonly seeing all sorts of social movements nowadays. Having said that, although the change-urging groups in Egypt all claim to have the good of the country as their top priority, it must be acknowledged that a large number of these groups of conflicting ideologies. On top of that, many participants of these social movements derive their ideologies from religion, and thus this makes the matter delicate. Throughout the past few months, Egypt has seen a number of incidents involving sectarian strife. Such incidents gave a warning signal to what this revolution may very well lead to. The question to ask now is will Egypt remain â€Å"2eed wahda† (Arabic for â€Å"one hand†) as they fervently chanted during the 18-day uprising, or will contradictions in ideologies and demands for change lead to a theological strife within Egypt.

Aids India

Matter of Life or Death India is the seventh largest Country in the world, home to one billion people and vast ethnic diversity. It has been making great leaps with education, industrialization and technology. Literacy rates are continuously going up along with life expectancy. India has been making continuous progress in many aspects for a country that has been relatively poor and extremely poverty-stricken. India is also one of the world’s largest democracies meaning that citizens have a great deal of political freedom.The average Indian citizen lives in a rural area and consumes 30 times less resources than an American citizen consumes. Although India is making many improvements, there are certain issues that continue to creep around and into the lives of Indian people and will continue to do so for a very long time. HIV/AIDS is one of these issues, an issue that has been taking millions of lives and affecting the lifestyles of many Indian people. HIV/AIDS is one of the mos t concerning problems for India; it continues to manifest regardless of the many efforts made by the Indian government.HIV/AIDS is not just a problem that India must deal with; it has affected nearly every region in the world but every country and population responds to epidemics with a different approach and one must consider all the different aspects. In India, many unique factors have been linked with the growth, prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS. The causes for the emergence of HIV/AIDS in India are still unclear however; some believe that foreign visitors that had sexual contact with the sex workers in India are to blame. Many believe this because initial cases were found in sex worker and truck drivers.HIV/AIDS emerged into India later than most other countries and the first cases were reported in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Studies also indicate that heterosexual sex was the method in which most initial cases occurred through. It was first identified in the early 80’s in s ex workers from Tamil Nadu. The infection rates of the disease peaked in the early 90’s and it had made its way into low – risk individuals across the whole country in just ten years. (Avert, 2011) The most recent estimates state that there are currently 2. million individuals living with HIV in India and of that, 39% are females and 3. 5% are children. Considering age as a factor, the highest infection rates occur in people aged 30-34 in India. HIV rates for the nation have been decreasing according to recent studies (NACO, 2007) and the area of southern India which was impacted the most by this epidemic has shown a decrease in infection rates (Kumar R. , Jha P. et al. , 2006). Seventy percent of infections are reported in six states: Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Manipur, Nagaland and Karnataka.Currently the state of Andhra Pradesh holds the highest prevalence rate (1%) out of the 28 states and out of the high-risk groups in this Andhra Pradesh; the highes t rate is among MSM (17%) (Avert, 2011). In recent years the rate of injection drug users has been increasing in many states and has given HIV an opportunity to spread. One of these states are Punjab in the northeast of India where a third of the population is addicted to drugs and has become one of the world’s leading areas in drug trafficking and usage (Glut, 2011). In the Punjab’s capital city Amritsar, the prevalence rate among IDU’s is as high as 30%.In many states of India drug use has become another concerning phenomenon that is helping with the spread of HIV/AIDS. Although the nation’s prevalence rates of HIV have decreased, it does not mean that the situation is getting better. This disease will continue to claim millions of lives because India does not have the equipment or resources needed in most areas; along with that the taboos, and stigma in India will negatively affect the treatment and prevention of HIV/AIDS. The way that Indians think ab out HIV/AIDS plays a major role in treatment and prevention efforts.There are many parts of the world where one with HIV/AIDS is able to go to a doctor, friend or family member to get support. In India, this is not the case for the most part. It is a country with a strict social hierarchy and most Indian people still believe in arranged marriages. The people of India stigmatize HIV/AIDS, which often leads to discrimination, denial, humiliation and rejection from family/community and medical staff. HIV/AIDS is not just any disease in India, since it is linked to controversial behaviours HIV/AIDS comes with a lot more baggage than for instance cancer does.HIV/AIDS is extremely under reported due to the many psychological hardships one must face in order to get the help that they need. Currently 50% of people with HIV are aware of their status; people that seek treatment often face traumatizing experiences with the medical staff. The government of India supports voluntary testing howev er, a very high percentage of cases have been reported in which the patient had been tested against their will, which in return would dictate the quality of medical care they would receive.In many cases, individuals have been denied medical services because of their status and people that are HIV+ and belong to a high-risk group face double the discrimination and stigma because they are a part of a controversial group. There is a direct correlation with Indian culture and the identification of HIV/AIDS in India. In order to successfully educate and treat the Indian population we must take into account the very sensitive cultural values of Indian people and customize action plans accordingly. Sex in India is highly discouraged amongst non-married couples and the topic is hushed.Indians greatly value marriage and hold the lowest divorce rate in world (Divorce Mag, 2011). Woman are seen as disgraceful, worthless and disgusting if they engage in sex with a partner before marriage and in most cases are disowned or face harsh consequences for their actions from family members and other social groups. For Indian people it is ideal to have and maintain one sexual partner although woman in India face double standards while men are able to participate in sexual intercourse with multiple partners there for the HIV status of women is highly dependent on the behaviour of their partner(s)/spouse.The taboo of talking about sex publically and sex in general is the main reason for the hardships faced by educators, organizations and other public figures who try to make efforts with the awareness of HIV/AIDS. India is a place where a bar can possibly be shut down if any public display of affection is shown. There can be many explanations for the way Indian people think about sex that date back to the history of the first civilizations and religious texts that may have influenced and shaped the ideology of Indian people today.This is a way of thinking that has existed in India fo r thousands of year and will continue to do so for a very long time. Education and communication is extremely difficult in a place where the population is not willing to listen, Indian people tend to ignore and underestimate HIV/AIDS because they are unwilling to talk about it. Most Indian people are unaware of the facts that in return cause them to link it to unacceptable behaviours creating stigma, discrimination and denial due to lack of knowledge.People are hesitant to expose their HIV status and discuss issues with people. HIV/AIDS has claimed many lives in India, more so then many other parts of the world. The world fact book estimated 170 000 deaths in the year 2009 (ranked third highest in the world). Causality rates of HIV/AIDS related deaths have been decreasing in recent years. Many efforts have been made to prevent the spread of the disease by the government and other organizations yet India ranks as one of the top countries on HIV/AIDS hit list.The people of India have a hard time explaining and discussing the impact that HIV/AIDS has left on their country. People often are surprised and thrown off when they are presented with actual statistics, they see the disease as someone else’s problem with the attitude that it is a disease that infects the â€Å"scum of society† but once they are presented with the statistics they are immediately appalled. Indian youth is continuously encouraged to ignore such topics and refrain from talking about sex by their families.Another interesting issue is the misleading statistics that the government of India presents which understates the real statistics, Indian people lose trust in the government and don’t know which statistics to believe (Drynan, 2001). Indian people that live in poor areas with very low income believe that the spread of infection is mainly because a family member has to migrate to another location for a long period of time to find work and make an income to support his/her family. Since the majority of the population in India is poor, this is the leading explanation that most families will have.Indian people that are HIV + believe that the spread of the disease is linked to the decision of keeping HIV statuses a secret. Some sex workers admit that they do not expose their status to clients in fear of losing their job. Indian people are aware that health care systems need to improve in order to stop HIV/AIDS from spreading. There also a large portion of people who believe in fate and that if someone is infected with HIV/AIDS it is in their fate to die that way. â€Å"In the past I never thought that I would contract such a big disease, or neither would my husband.I had that much faith in him because we wouldn’t do such things. Now I don’t talk to my husband, I don’t know his whereabouts. God gave me this disease, what God metes out, Only God can judge. I have a daughter who is HIV + as well. I feel bad that my child has it but wha t can one do. I have a lot of problems at work, my co-workers tease me and shun me. They do not come near me† Anita who is HIV+ explained her thoughts about her status (Lets Break Through, 2006). Since the creation of antiretroviral therapy (ART/ARV) many lives have been extended and maybe even saved.In India these drugs are becoming more available and the price of these drugs is declining as time goes by how ever not everyone has access to these drugs. Many areas of India where these drugs are needed are poor areas where Doctors refuse to practise due to lack of income available. Many villages do not have access to someone who can administrate these drugs. The main factor is money, these drugs are expensive and many families simply cannot afford them. Recently the government has been focusing on distributing free antiretroviral drugs but it is impossible to reach everyone in need with the available funds.India is also actively manufacturing generic low-cost ARV’s. Out of all the people that need treatment only ? are receiving it (Avert, 2011) and many are not adhering due to high costs of drugs/testing, poor counselling, inadequate understanding and intolerance to drugs. Treatment centres are located in every state where HIV/AIDS is prevalent, screening is voluntary (ideally) and counselling is provided. The types of screening available are: Western blot test, ELISA, viral load test, CD4 count and blood biochemistry.Luckily India has a strong pharmaceutical industry and is taking advantage of it by reaching out to its patients. Another issue is drug resistant people; in Mumbai 18% of newly diagnosed people were resistant to at least one drug (World Bank, 2011) so second-line therapy is required. Another concerning problem is that therapy in India is unstructured. Although these drugs are becoming more available in India, those in need are often denied access by the health care providers. The poor are ignored and usually do not have the funds or t he resources to obtain the drugs. HIV/AIDS Treatment and Prevention in India, 2011) Some other popular alternative traditional therapy in India includes Chinese medicine, Homeopathy, acupuncture and siddha medicine (Life Positive, 2011).The impact that HIV/AIDS will have on India in the future may be devastating if the current trends do not change. Treatment needs to be made more available, Health care providers need to be trained adequately and the general population needs to be educated. Many organizations and government have helped with the control of this epidemic such as promoting condom use are making improvements. Condoms are now used among many sex workers who ecite the policy of â€Å"no condom, no sex† to their customers and this is important because as of today condoms are the single most convenient and effective way of preventing the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases. There is no doubt that India is putting resources towards organizations that will pro vide services for the Indian population but this alone is not enough, Indian people themselves will need to accept and face this issue in order to make progress. Since India has a large portion of High-risk groups, there is always going to be danger and opportunity for HIV/AIDS to spread.The rates vary from state to state but World Banks estimates that by 2033 mortality by infectious diseases will increase and of that, AIDS will represent 22% of total deaths. India has economic, cultural and other demographic factors that hamper prevention efforts. Discrimination, denial and stigma will continue to cause damaged relationships, torn families, physical isolation, desertion, economic implications, lower quality of life and death. This disease will continue to control the lives of people that are infected.

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Demography and Health - Scholarship Essay Example Only a few differences exist where white non Hispanic groups has suicide as one of the top ten causes of death, and another difference is that Homicide and legal intervention is not a top ten cause of death among the white non Hispanic. .. erences exist where white non Hispanic groups has suicide as one of the top ten causes of death, and another difference is that Homicide and legal intervention is not a top ten cause of death among the white non Hispanic. Question 5: In which Hispanic subgroup is the neonatal mortality risk the highest Hispanic subgroups include Mexicans, Puerto Ricans and Cubans, the subgroup with the highest neonatal mortality risk is the Puerto Ricans group with a total high of 7.9. Answer: Puerto Ricans Question 6: In which group is the post-neonatal mortality risk the highest: The group with the highest post neonatal mortality risk is the blacks, the blacks have a total high of 6.3, while the Cubans have the lowest post neonatal mortality risk which is 2.0. Answer: blacks Reference: US Department of Health and Human Services Public Health Service Monthly Vital Statistics Report. Vol 43, No.

Nursing skills Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words - 1

Nursing skills - Essay Example I chose to discuss this skill as I noted that I was assigned a patient who refused treatment, and I wanted to know what and how I could manage a depressed patient refusing further care. For this critical analysis, I will apply Driscoll’s reflection model. It is a model which asks three main questions: What? So what? and Now, what? (Driscoll, 2007). These questions would help me assess my actions and the justification for these nursing interventions and skills. In accordance with the mandates of the Nursing and Midwifery Council (2008), the names of the clients and other involved health personnel shall not be used, instead, assumed names would be assigned to these patients in this paper. Mildred was a 36 year old woman who was assigned to me during my clinical placement in the mental health unit. She was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and often manifested aggressive behaviour during the manic phase of her disease. Bipolar disorder is a mental health issue wherein individuals go back and forth between very good or highly energized moods and depression (Goodwin and Sachs, 2004). The mood swings may in some cases be quick, but for some, it may take up to days or weeks. As discussed by (Goodwin and Sachs, 2004), bipolar patients can sometimes be severely depressed at one time and later on be highly charged, have poor temper control, be reckless, have little need for sleep, and be easily distracted. Their short temper and reckless behaviour can sometimes lead to aggressiveness and anger especially when they do not get what they want (Goodwin and Sachs, 2004). During my placement, my mentor asked me to administer to Mildred her due medications. As soon as I approached Mi ldred with the medications, she was already glaring at me, showing signs of aggression, like she wanted to hit me. She was also shouting for me to get away from her. When approached by other health providers, she also refused to calm down and turned even more

The Issues for TFL Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The Issues for TFL - Essay Example London being named as the official host of Paralympics and Olympic games, also presented a great challenge to the transport sector of London. Due to the number of people that will use the transport sector and to be in particular, tubes and buses, the transport route must be both effective and efficient. This paper explain how the adoption of Google maps technology in the form of an innovation to make TFL effective and efficient. To work out this, Google maps have been integrated into the transport system. With the implementation of Google maps, there will be saving of time due to excellent organization and information between the transport users and the transport sector. Introduction Google map is a service that involves mapping technology and application by Google, freely that empowers services that are based on maps. It deals in street maps as route planner used by trekkers, public transport and a locator for urban business in many countries. Google maps give high resolution satell ite or aerial images in most urban areas. Various countries have complained that terrorists have invaded the use of Google in locating their target sites (Mitchell, 2010). Up to four transportation modes are available in any given area. Like many application of Google web, it makes a great use of java script. As the map is dragged by the users, there is the downloading of the grid squares from the server and into the page. In search of a business by the users, results are then downloaded for insertion at the background into the map and side panel. Locations are dynamically drawn by placing a red pin at the map images top. Google maps can also be customized by the introduction of tools into its interface. Using the map images and core engine can introduce location of customized icons. The grease monkey, an insertion tool, provide scripts on the client side which are large numbers hence data in the Google map is customized. After having a rough idea of implementation of Google maps an d their customization, the integration into the transport sector of London can be possible. This is especially in the buses and tubes routes. Advantages and disadvantages of Google maps The main advantage of using Google maps is that it provides a variety of map views that it supplies. These include a view of the terrain, view of satellite image and the normal one and this depend on the user need. According to this paper, the variety can be used in TFL effectively. This is because uses of bus and tubes will be effective as the networking of these two can be viewed by the three viewers. This makes the users to be aware of the position of a particular bus or tube hence efficiency in time. Google map also provides multiple destinations of routes for instance in the transport sector. TFL with the help of Google maps, especially during the time of Olympics, will be vital in essence that there will be the presence of a lot of people and availability of routes to ply on the Google maps in the tools will be of great help (Wilson, 2009). Another advantage is that Google maps provide for simplicity. This is because it is easier and simple for a user to install the Google maps in a gadget as the criteria is very clear. The last advantage is that one can choose a travel type. This implies that, one is in a position to choose which mode of transport to use, buses or tubes. Although, Google maps have advantages, there are also disadvantages that are accompanied by it. The main disadvantage

The Origin of the Concept of Logistics Research Paper

The Origin of the Concept of Logistics - Research Paper Example This research will begin with the statement that the origin of the concept, Logistics, was noticed before the birth of Christ and was employed by the Greek generals (Leon, the Wise and Alexander, the Great) to procure food, ammunition, and clothing for their army. It has been noticed that for years, the concept of logistics had been an issue of war affairs. History has recorded which shows that what people wanted were not available or produced in the place of its consumption. These goods were not accessible even when they had the urge to consume them. The food and the commodities were dispersed widely and were also available in abundance, during certain times of the year. Earlier, people had the tendency to consume their choice of food or commodity at the location or after moving the goods to a preferred site and hoarding them for later use. However, the absence of well-developed storage and transportation systems had brought in difficulty for them to consume these goods. As a result , the movement of the goods was limited to an individual depending on how he/she moves it. The main problem that was faced by them was the perishable nature of the goods, which forced them to gather the needful frequently. The restrictions faced by the people in storage and transportation had made them live in places closer to the source of production in order to facilitate easy consumption (Ferrell and Hartline, 2010). Thus, the concept of logistics was not prominent and proficient in those days because of its cost. The cost of logistics was quite high which therefore restricted the traders and the business to transport the goods and commodities from one place to another. It was a big problem for the mass to stay close to the source of the production since the traders or the business did not provide them with the facility of transportation of the goods to their homes. The concept of logistics would have eliminated these problems if it had been introduced and properly utilized then. The goals of the traders were to acquire higher productivity and earn good profits from their business and thus, they did not emphasize much on logistics (Dess, Lumpkin and Eisner, 2009). However today, with the passage of time, logistics have become the heart and the success of every business. It is used as the most important strategic weapon by the companies for transporting their goods from one part of the world to another so that every person has the right to use or consume it. However, it can be noticed that today, in a few areas, the production and consumption take place in the same geographic region. So that marks for an exception. There are striking examples that can be observed in different parts of the worlds like, South America, Australia, Asia, and Africa. Here, the population resides in small, self-sufficient villages and most of the goods that are used by them are acquired or produced in close proximity. Few essential goods are imported from other areas and thus, the production efficiency of the companies is low and the economic standards of living are not even noteworthy. In this type of an economy, a well-developed logistics system can bring positive changes to the exchange of goods among several countries (Dooley, et al., 2006). Logistics – Defined Logistics can be defined as the management of the flow of resources, which exists between the point of consumption and point of origin, for meeting the requirements of the corporations or the consumers. The resources that are managed in the logistics include materials, food, equipment, liquids, and staffs as well as the abstract items like, information, particles, time and energy. The logistics of the items usually take into account the integration of flow of information, production, packaging, material handling, inventory, warehousing, transportation and also, security (Clifton, 2012).  

The effect of China's less stringent trade policies on the global Essay

The effect of China's less stringent trade policies on the global economy - Essay Example rogress in conforming to WTO norms has been slow and a number of issues still to be resolved before China can be considered fully integrated into the international trade regime. Both China and her trading partners are reaping full advantage of their trade liberalisation but not to an extend due to a liberal trade regime and strong protection for foreign intellectual property requirements. Moving China’s economic system from central planning and command to market socialism has had to undergo several changes making her international trading and domestic regulatory regimes to undertake fundamental changes as a result of its WTO accession commitments. In this way, China has had to reduce or eliminate a wide range of trade barriers and open its domestic industries to increased competition, the modification and addition of sections of her domestic legislation such as those relating to the protection of intellectual property in order to be in compliance with WTO protocols (USTR, 2003a). The central government has also committed itself to reduce the state’s role in the economy in order to satisfy both domestic and international calls for a more and better market-based system. These changes will mean separating government from business, leading to the privatizing additional state enterprises, fostering a more independent central banking system and reducing corru ption (The Economist, 2001a). The Chinese economy is expected to grow by 9% per year from 2006 – 2015 (even though a slow in growth is expected in 2015 – 2020) since her government began dismantling its command economy in favour of markets and opening its markets to foreign goods and investment. It is further predicted that by 2020 China’s GDP would have grown to US$10 trillion. Since 1990, the Chinese economy has not witnessed a GDP of less than 4%. In 1992, the growth rate peaked at 14 percent (The Economist, 2000). Between 1997 and 2000, the economy grew by 24.7 percent. The growth rate for each year

Is Iran planning to build nuclear weapons See GI 2012, page 18, or GI Research Paper

Is Iran planning to build nuclear weapons See GI 2012, page 18, or GI 2013 page 203 - Research Paper Example This show, Iran does not aim at building the stockpile that would be dangerous and hazardous to the global peace and regional security. The original traces come forth in form of the U.S supported government that was in place in Iran in the 1950s after a coup that took place in 1953 (Dabashi, p 73)). Although at that point, the United States of America facilitated it based on the need for civilian purposes, yet with time the role and intentions towards building this stockpile grew suspiciously awkward. In the post 1979 Iranian scenario, Iran has had a mixed reaction towards the acquisition of nuclear arsenal. Considering the Islamic outlook of the government, the official policy maintained by the government stated that the actions and building of the nuclear arsenal is against the values and spirit of Islam, for it causes direct damage and destruction to humanity, it therefore was officially declared that Iran does not aim following the nuclear ambitions (Parsi, p. 144). However, time and again the indications have been such that Iran is pursuing the silent acquiring of the nuclear stock pile. This has been reported number of times in the intelligence reports that have been collected based on the evidences and other factors through the works of the intelligence agencies. The large number of nuclear power plants and some of them are underground and have not been declared publically, this fact castes aspersion over the Iran’s intentions and brings about suspicion with regard to its actual motives behind the overall nuclear conundrum created. In the presence of such large number of nuclear power plants, one of the most critical one controversial one that has raised eye brows is that of Bushehr 1 reactor which has been built in association with Russia(Cordesman and Seitz ¸p 219). It has been center of attention for the West and they suspect it is center to military

Channel Strategies and the Value Chain Assignment

Channel Strategies and the Value Chain - Assignment Example he different channel strategies and value chain within an organization is essential in improvising the advantages of the process units with a functional or operational unit. An example is that is single input is required by different organizational units, the benefits which can be obtained here will involve creating one function to purchase, store and distribute that single unit to other business units within the organization. Further, this will aid towards cost reduction processes within the organization making the role of the channel strategies indisputable within the value chain (Osterwalder, Pigneur & Tucci, 2005). Automotive industry is affected by the effects of growth going global and supply chains. An analysis into the effects of growth going global reveals that unlike before where automotive industries would assemble their products in one place, the change towards growth going global has led to shift within the automotive industry as they now diffuse their products, services, technology and employees across national borders therefore decreasing their supply chain. When there is a reduction in the supply chain, it means a considerable reduction in the distribution strategy is realized therefore automotive industries benefits from this as their revenue is increased because of the affordability of their products to consumers. Most automotive industries therefore obtains leverage within the channel and the value chain by opening up their sub branches in different areas to help in cutting down the costs associated with such things like transport and distribution of products therefore making th eir product effective in the market as prices charged on these products are always proportional to the cost incurred in the production process (McClendon & Robinson, 2013). A good example is that increased consumption of automotive products, leads to an increase in demand to order variability in the supply chain which is being amplified as it moves up the supply chain

Research Methods for Social Epidemiology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Research Methods for Social Epidemiology - Essay Example In looking at Beaglehole’s work on Basic Epidemiology a general understanding of the discipline can be comprehended. The World Health Organization (2002) defines social epidemiology as â€Å"the study of how society and different forms of social organization influence the health and well-being of individuals and populations†. The appearance of social inequalities in the way that economic related issues are concerned are ways in which the study of a society can reveal needs that must be addressed to thwart the way in which disease affects the lives of members of a social group in comparison to the way it affects those of another group. It has been shown through the work of social epidemiologists that inequities within the economic social structure of a nation can lead to inequities within the medical care that is available and provided. By looking at the ways in which this research is approached, an understanding of the impact of these kinds of studies can be assessed for merit and for future responsibility toward social change. Dennis Raphael (2000) has created a study of the inequities that exist in the health care within the United States. His research is based on U.S. statistical information on economics and health, correlating the two to create conclusions about the way in which economic inequalities create diverse general health implications. With the use of secondary research to prove his hypothesis, he is able to create support for his points of interest and create strong connective dialogue for his theories. However, one of the weaknesses of this use of secondary research is that much of the information is not recent to his publication date of 2000. As an example, in the section that makes a connection between health differences in relation to race, the statistics that are being used are from 1985 and 1987. With this topic, the way in which

Computers Are an Important Part of Most People’s Everyday Lives Essay Example for Free

Computers Are an Important Part of Most People’s Everyday Lives Essay Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Nowadays, computers are an important part of most people’s everyday lives. This change has improved the way people live. By advances in the technology, especially invention of computers, human beings can do their works much easier than the past. They have improved the way of our lives (life) dramatically. The number of advantages that computers can bring us is very much so that its disadvantages can be ignored (Advantages of using computers are so much that disadvantages could be ignored). Cases such as save (saving) time or facilitate (facilitating) job and affairs and improve(ing) our communications are my reasons which will be illustrated in details as following. To begin with, by using of computers we can save the time (more time). In todays’ community, it is told that time is money. With the huge advancements in technology, people’s life has more (become) complicated as it seems. Each of us hasn’t enough time to do all works on time (No one has enough time to do everything on time). The advent of computers in our lives(life), we can save time and do a big part of works more efficiently. For example, instead of going to shop and buying cloths, I (you) can buy it from my home by going to its website and even I (you) have this chance to see which cloth is the top-selling. (or) As an another example, I(you) can choose my (you) favorite five-star restaurant or hotel a couple of weeks before my(your) trip to a certain place. hat shows that I can better manage my affairs(It shows that people can better manage their life and schedule everything). The last example is that I even can control my home or personal room by using of my workplace’s computer (The last example is that home or personal room can be controlled or and monitored by using of a computer in workplace). These examples show computers have revolutionized our lifestyle. The last but not the least, computers improved our social behaviors. For the very first time in the history, Social networks and websites have given this opportunity to people to find friends and know people they never met before. Nowadays, there are a few internet-organizations by which we can find our future wife. It shows that computers even affect our lives (life) emotionally. To take these into consideration, I can confidently draw the conclusion that there are a lot of advantages which computers donate us such as finding new friends or saving the valuable time so that its drawbacks can be ignored.

Reflection on Personal Development Plan

Reflection on Personal Development Plan For those who intend to discover and to understand, not to indulge in conjectures and soothsaying, and rather than contrive imitation and fabulous worlds plan to look deep into the nature of the real world and to dissect it for them everything must be sought in things themselves. (Sir Francis Bacon). It is base on the wise saying that I reflect on my personal development plan. Everybody has dreams but not every person work to achieve their child wood dream. I have always which to become a successful business executive and I know it could only be achieve by knowing and studying the foundation of business, that is the reason I choose to go for my postgraduate studies in Masters in business Administration, it serves as basiss for my ongoing personal development plan. To be able to discuss my ongoing personal development plan there is need to first discuss what my swot analysis are ,as this will form the background to any developmental plan. STRENGTHS Developing strong people skills Using the power of other peoples help Planning ahead to reduce stress Widening the search for solutions Generating many radical ideas Weighing the pros and cons of a decision WEAKNESSES Lack of effective managerial experience Ineffective Public Speaking and Presentation experience In adequate job experience Lack of in depth knowledge on the way business is being run. OPPORTUNITIES testing the viability of a financial decision Making learning a happier experience Memory Improvement Techniques Choosing by projecting possible outcomes THREATS Using backward planning to set goals Surviving the crises that come with growth Coping with uncertainty Reaching for the top with everyday tools Communicate complex ideas successfully Having tried to analysis my swot analysis to the best of my understanding there is need to identify how it has contributed to my personal development plan. And a constant review of the stages of development will help guide to achieving our dreams. I have this dream of being an accomplished business entrepreneur. This I believe could only believe achieve by gaining managerial experience in work place ,and going for my MBA.I believe it would help me get the required managerial experience and experts that is required to be a successful business entrepreneur. 1.1 WHERE I AM NOW This is a long journey that stated 2004, when I was given admission to study Public Administration at OLABISI ONABANJO UNIVERISTY. While studying Public Administration I was taught managerial and administrative course which includes the following: Leadership foreign policy organizational behavior political economy administrative law conflict management This course has enhanced my knowledge on how several aspects of organization management is being runned which includes: Improved my decision making abilities Analysising work pattern in the work place Effective level of organization leadership and motivation Organizational structure and process of delayering. At the end of my studies I was awarded B.Sc Public administration in April 2008. The next step was to put all the academic knowledge I have gained into use and gain experience on the job. 1.2 Work Experience From May 2008 -march 2009 Company Name: D WAY SYSTEM AND TECH LTD Title: Assistant Operation Manager. My role in the organization is to create stability and used my academic knowledge to enhance productivity, sales and the running of the admin and sales department. My job includes the following: Handling of client request, compliant and comment about product sold to them. Managing the company cyber cafà © Working with the sales department in delivering good service to the clients. Filling of client problem report book, transferring those report to appropriate department Getting feedback from client about service rendered Coordinating the daily running of the cafà © business of the organization. Apart from my role, I still work in the following capacity in the organization Involved in the strategic preparation on company proposal Involved in new project execution Business proposal preparation for the organization 1.3 Strengths/experience gain Creating efficient systems: This skill was significantly developed while working for the organization; I was made to create a structure that allows for effective running of the organization. Comparing and evaluating information: I gain this experience as I have to look into the comparism of different product, using several parameters which includes: pricings, productive specification, market value, client popular demand. Working well in a team: I was able to function very well as a team players, as I work in almost all the department of the organization. Strategic thinking on problem solving: I gain experience on strategic and manipulation of problems in other to get the best solution, and how best to create alternative and exceptions. Areas of further Development Presentation skills: While working for the organization I discover I am very poorwith my presentation skill which need further development. Setting up and keeping to time schedules: My time management skill was way beyond the organization standard and it require prompt development and evaluation. Interpreting plans diagrams: due to my background in administration ,I was in experience in plan and diagram interpretation, since the organization is basically engineering related . 1.4 WHERE I AM GOING Long term objectives My long term aim is to develop my career in the information technology sectorand be a successful business executive in the information technology sector. I discovered that the world is going digital every seconds, and it is going to be a very good business in the third world country like Nigeria that is still struggles to catch up with the facet of technology development. My aim and goal is to work establish business in the e-business, software development and media/data digitalization aspect of the information technology world. This sector i believe is the most lucrative sector in IT, and I believe the experienced gained in the organization I have worked for will be of great help combined with my administrative knowledge. Short Term objectives To develop my business and administrative knowledge in relation to the information technology world. To develop my Information Technology Skills as related to e-bussiness, software and data development. 1.5 HOW WILL I GET THERE In other to achieve my objectives I am embarking on the following Developing my business and administrative knowledge Furthering my studies my going for my masters in business administration in one of the universities here in London. I am doing my postgraduate diploma in management studies with LONDON MILLENIUM COLLEGE, which is a two/third of mba. After completing my pgdip in Management studies, I would use the certificate to gain entrance to a university to finish my MBA. Developing my Information Technology skills I am a student of Oracle university (newyork) studying databases management. I registered with Home learning College to study Microsoft certified system Engineer.(MSCE) I am developing my knowledge of the following application which is widely used by organizations: SAP, ERP, and DASHBORD. Etc. 2.1 TASK2 The course advance professional development have being of great impact to my career development. The course has impacted greatly on getting of managerial competencies and to know the underlying techniques and approaches required to gain personal competency behavior and skills in order to achieve effective performance in the organization have being able to align and differentiate my skills and know my strength and weakness. The course has set out possible source for the development of my desired skills or competence, related to my personal and professional skill enhancement. There is therefore a need to do an analysis of the skills I have gain personally and professional. STRENGHTS Developing strong people skills Using the power of other peoples help Planning ahead to reduce stress Widening the search for solutions Generating many radical ideas Weighing the pros and cons of a decision WEAKNESS Lack of effective managerial experience Ineffective Public Speaking and Presentation experience In adequate job experience Lack of in depth knowledge on the way business is being run. Opportunities testing the viability of a financial decision Making learning a happier experience Memory Improvement Techniques Choosing by projecting possible outcomes Threats : Using backward planning to set goals Surviving the crises that come with growth Coping with uncertainty Reaching for the top with everyday tools Communicate complex ideas successfully 3.1 Assignment 2 task1 In new businesses, management is often considered whatever needs to be done just to keep things afloat. However, for your business to grow and remain healthy, you must master certain basic skills in management and leadership skills that will help you avoid the crisis situations where you have to do whatever it takes to stay afloat. Developing effective management skills to deal with specific challenges and problems of each organization is the urgent needs of many businesses and organizations in the global competitive environment, rapid change of technology and environment. 2.2 SKILLS REQUIRED FOR EFFECTIVE MANAGEMENT building power and influence; (ii) communication skills (iii) goal setting; (iv) managing conflict; (v) decision making; (vi) Creative Problem Solving Skills (vii) Task Execution(viii)People Skills;(ix) Inventing products and processes   The quality of manager and effective management styles can determine the culture of the organization, the productivity of its staff, and, ultimately, success or failure of the organization. A manager should have the ability to direct, supervise, encourage, inspire, and co-ordinate, and in doing so facilitate action and guide change.   Three personal and professional skill a manager must possess. This includes Creative Problem Solving Skills: A good and effective manager must possess good and accurate problem solving skills, it is believe that a manager always got problem to solve daily at the work place, proactiveness and have an in depth knowledge of problem solving is a great tool in creating stability A good manager must have good descriptive and analytical skills of solving problem, identifying the cause of the problem, developing and creative options and choosing the best course of action. he best method for implementing and evaluating to determine the effectiveness and efficiency of the decision must be known. During my brief stint working with D WAY Systems and Tech limited as an assistance operational manager, there was a time when the cafà © division of the company develop serious technical issues that requires us changing our Internet Service Provider (isp) and then reconnection process which requires high quality work and it take time for us to switch, this process created serious problem for us satisfying our customer, I was able to solve this applying the rule of problem solving. Communication Skills: A good manager must have a very good communication skill such as: listening skills, presentation skills, feedback skills and Report writing skills. All this communication skills mentions are part of what a good manager should posses to be effective at workplace. The ability to listen to suggestion, compliant, and several issues at the workplace give room for a good manage to eliminate easily the sources of problems. The presentation skills must be very good cause it is an effective to for business growth. Effective managers always give feedback openly this creates an environment of trust and encourages staff to be open with you in return. And not all feedback is critical its just as important to comment when someone has done something right. Employee feedback is critical in managing change. Holding focus groups with employees is a great way to gauge reaction and monitor the progress of change. You also can encourage employees to provide feedback through email or the company intranet. Communication is the cornerstone to successful change management. Talking to your employees is not a one-time event, and you need to reinforce your message by communicating early and often. People Skills Being a skilled people manager includes having the integrity to foster trust and the emotional intelligence to deal with different people successfully. Effective managers are also good at empowering, coaching, motivating and developing people. Managers act as catalysts by bringing the right people together for a wide range of tasks. They know who can do what and who will work best with other people. They are also good facilitators, able to ask the right questions to draw solutions out of others. They ask stimulating questions in a supportive manner rather than behaving like a police interrogator. Management effectiveness requires clear communication and good listening skills. 2.3 THE PROFESSIONAL SKILLS A MANAGER NEED TO BE SUCCESSFUL AT WORK INCLUDES Task Execution To execute complex tasks, manage projects and run an efficient operation, it helps to be able to plan, organize and monitor performance. It is also important to have a strong results focus, to be someone who conveys a sense of urgency and has the perseverance to get things done under tight time pressures. This includes the resilience to bounce back following setbacks, to be someone who is not easily defeated. Trust is an essential element in the relationship of manager and his or her team. You demonstrate your trust in others through your actions how much you check and control their work, how much you delegate and how much you allow people to participate. Organizing and coordinating (the manager organizes subordinates behaviors around tasks and coordinates interdependent relationships to accomplish organizational goals). Commercial insight: This set of skills emphasizes efficiency and, in the case of private sector managers, profitability or return on investment. Managers use strategic thinking to ensure that they focus on the right tasks, those that will add most value. They use their planning skills to prioritize in combination with the ability to understand how value is created. This means understanding the financial aspects of running an organization and allocating all resources at their disposal wisely. Leadership and motivation: A mark of a good leader is to be able to provide consistent motivation to his team encouraging them to attain excellence and quality in their performance. A good leader is always looking for ways to improve production and standards 2.4 HOW THIS SKILLS CONTRIBUTE TO MEET BOTH ORGANIZATIONAL AND PERSONAL GOALS Having analyze both the personal skills and professional skills a manager need to have to be effective at work, for effectiveness in the work place a good manager need to possess both personal and professional skills, both skills are inter related as both help in meeting both organizational and personal goal and objective. A manager that has both skills will possess this following attribute. Enthusiasm: If Managers are negative they bring staffs down. Manager with enthusiasm, with a bounce in their step, with a can-do attitude. Many people tend to follow people with a can-do attitude. Enthusiastic Managers are committed to their goals and express this commitment through optimism. Competence: Managers will be chosen based on their ability to successfully lead others rather than on technical expertise, as in the past. Having a winning track record is the surest way to be considered competent. Expertise in management skills is another dimension in competence. The ability to challenge, inspire, enable, model and encourage must be demonstrated if managers are to be seen as capable and competent. Ability to Delegate Tasks: Trust is an essential element in the relationship of manager and his or her team. You demonstrate your trust in others through your actions how much you check and control their work, how much you delegate and how much you allow people to participate. Cool under Pressure: In a perfect world, projects would be delivered on time, under budget and with no major problems or obstacles to overcome. A leader with a hardy attitude will take these problems in stride. When leaders encounter a stressful event, they consider it interesting, they feel they can influence the outcome and they see it as an opportunity. Team-Building Skills: A team builder can best be defined as a strong person who provides the substance that holds the team together in common purpose toward the right objective. In order for a team to progress from a group of strangers to a single cohesive unit, the leader must understand the process and dynamics required for this transformation. He or she must also know the appropriate leadership style to use during each stage of team development. The leader must also have an understanding of the different team players styles and how to capitalize on each at the proper time, for the problem at hand. Communicate the big picture: If you want your employees to work hard and be committed to your business, you have to keep them in the loop. Open communication helps foster loyalty and gives employees a sense of pride. It helps them understand how their work contributes to the companys success. 4.1 SKILL AUDIT Knowledge and skills which I consider to be important for my future career My Ability Rating strong / weak / somewhere in between Using the power of other peoples help Moderate: I am relatively able to use other peoples help to get things done. Lack of effective managerial experience Weak: i dont have effective managerial experience Ineffective Public Speaking and Presentation experience Weak I do not have enough experience when it comes to public speaking Developing strong people skills Moderate: I am able to demonstrate strong peoples skills to a good extent. In adequate job experience Weak: due to non-adequate job consistency. Lack of in depth knowledge on the way business is being run. Weak: due to my limited exposure on how an organization is being manage in the real world 4.3 A detail action Plan Area of further Development and leadership development Reason How to achieve further leadership development/Review date:dec 2011 Ineffective Public Speaking and Presentation experience I am not good at public specking and paper presentation due to my lack of exposure. I will undergoing constant training and being participative in speech presentation and would love to achieve it by dec 2011 In adequate job experience Having work for a short period I have not being able to gather the relevant experience I need for my development I intend to get a job that will enhance my development and improve my leadership style.so as to gather more job experience Developing strong people skills I have develop my peoples skill to a certain extent due to my constant interaction with people I will keep relating with people to enhanve my peoples skill the more Lack of in depth knowledge on the way business is being run. Due to my inexperience on the job, and my non-involvement in management make me to lack and in depth knowledge on the way business I intend to enhance my knowledge by reading books on business development ,going to seminars and being involve in the management of an organization. 4.4 Impact of learning style on personal development. Personal development of individual depends on the the type of learning styles that best sooth the the individual, while some people are sensory learner others may be intuitive.but for personal development the best approach to achieving a stated goal is to follow the learning style that best enhance its development. Developing your style of learning to cope with different environments takes time and effort, but is an essential skill for both academic study and career development. It is therefore necessary to test the following in achieveing the best learning style for personal development. identify the style of different learning environments you experience; work on the development suggestions in the learning styles reports; when starting new learning tasks, think about what styles will be most productive dont just use your preferred style; when working in groups, think about how each person contributes in terms of their learning style; think about your learning style in group tasks what effect does this have on others?

Business and Economic Environment in Lagos | Analysis

Business and Economic Environment in Lagos | Analysis 1.0  INTRODUCTION Business is seen to operate within an environment. This environment could either present a threat or an opportunity to the organizations that operate in it. This essay aims to describe the business environment in the city where the researcher lives. The first section will give an overview of what business environment is all about. Furthermore, Lagos state will be used as a case study to examine the business environment where the researcher lives. Then, different forces or conditions that encourage or inhibit business activities in Lagos state will be discussed 2.0  AN OVERVIEW OF BUSINESS ENVIRONMENT According to Nyandat (2013) Business environment can be defined as forces or surroundings that affect business operations. These forces may include customers, competitors, suppliers, distributors, industry trends, substitutes, regulations, government activities, and economy, social, political and cultural factors. Ogunro (2014) explained business environment as the combination of all environmental conditions and influences that are capable of affecting or influencing business activities. Furthermore, Obiwuru et al (2011) also defined environment of business as the aggregation of the pattern of all the external and internal conditions and influences that affects the existence, growth and development of the business. For the purpose of this essay, Lagos state in Nigeria will be used as a case study to analyze the business environment in the city where the researcher resides. Lagos state is the former capital of Africa’s largest country, Nigeria; it is the most populated city in sub-Saharan region with more than 15 million people. Lagos is called center of excellence because of its reputation of housing the very best of Nigeria’s skilled workforce. It is also home to the country’s top industries and businesses with over 65% of imported goods passing through its ports and 80% of manufacturing being handled within or around its vicinity. With such massive economic facts, Lagos is the life-wire of the Nigerian economy. This is best explained by the fact that no macro-economic activity can ever succeed with Lagos being alienated. There are forces or conditions that encourage or inhibit business activity in Lagos and these include: 2.1  Human Capital: The population of Lagos is a very good advantage for business entrepreneurs because both skilled and unskilled workforce is available and very cheap. Lagos state has a population of more than 15 million people of which 75% of them are youths and eager to work in order to earn a living. The city has the best of skilled workforce from diverse regions including foreign experts. This has helped the business activity because you can get any expert you want at a very affordable price. 2. 2 Inadequate Power Supply: Inadequate power supply is one of the major challenges that affect the business activity in Lagos. Every company has a standby power generator which is being used when there is power failure .Firms expenditure on diesel and petrol (as the case may be) is unbearable and this is affecting the productivity. This development is impacting negatively on the business investment due to increased expenditure on diesel and petrol by enterprises. This also comes with the consequences of declining productivity and competitiveness. Many companies have been closed down due to inadequate power supply while some companies where forced to relocate to the nearby country. Nigeria has lost very huge amount of money due to inadequate power. â€Å"In 1990, the World Bank estimated the economic loss to the country from power inefficiency, at about N1 billion† (Adenikinju, 2005, p.3). Using telecom industry in Nigeria as an example; which is an Oligopolistic market where we have very few telecom industries; their major challenge is power which they use to power all the base stations across the country. Most of them spend an outrageous amount of money to power these base stations because they cannot afford to have network failure due to power outage. â€Å"Telecom Operators Spend N10 Billion Annually to Power BTS† (Nurudeen, 2014, p.1) 2.3  Security Situation Insecurity is another major concern that affects businesses in Lagos, there is very high rate of insecurity in the city and this made some foreign investors to decline from investing in the country. The security agencies are trying to ensure a secure and peaceful society but the government still needs to do more in order to give the foreign investors courage to come in and invest. Using Oil and Gas sector as an example, where we have Oligopolistic market structure and the price is being controlled and regulated by the government, there is a lot of oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the downstream sector which affects the economy. â€Å"The latest estimates by the Finance Minister, Dr Mrs. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala put the oil theft at about 400,000 barrels per day; the environment of the affected communities also suffers serious degradation as a consequence of this problem†. (Ibru, 2014, p.2) 2.4 Poor Infrastructures Lack of good infrastructure in the city is another major challenge; many companies have their industries located at the industrial layout which is quite far from the metropolis. Commuters find it very difficult to access some remote places to buy products due to bad roads. (Gilbert, 2009) Access to raw materials for the company use is a major challenge; also distribution of goods and services to the metropolis is also a big problem due to bad roads. There is a lot of traffic congestion in the metropolis and valuable hours are being lost due to traffic which is caused by bad roads. There is no good health care sector for the poor masses, many people could not have access to medical care because of widespread poverty in the country and this is causing very big negative impact to the country due to high mortality rate. 3.0 Conclusion: The economic environment in Lagos state has been facing a lot of challenges but despite all that, they were able to create jobs, wealth for individuals, as well as revenue for the government through employment and taxation. 4.0 References: Adenikinju, F. (2005) Analysis of the cost of infrastructure failures in a developing economy: the case of the electricity sector in Nigeria. Volume 148 of AERC research paper, African Economic Research Consortium. Gilbert, C. (2009). Nigerias Bad Roads Are Getting Worse. Available: http://www.voanews.com/content/nigerias-bad-roads-are-getting-worse-74805987/415952.html. [Accessed 4th June 2014] Ibru, G. (2013) Press conference on the economy by the Lagos chamber of commerce and industry. 2nd Quarter [Online] Available from: [Accessed 27th May 2014]. Neyandat, C. (2013) how do you analyze the business environment? Gakus, 21st Oct. Available from: http://www.gaksu.com/allpdf/140_notes.pdf [Accessed 4th June 2014] Nurudeen, A. (2014) Interview with the C.E.O of Airtel Nigeria, Daily Trust, [Online] 10th February.p.1. Available from: http://allafrica.com/stories/201402100424.html?viewall=1 [Accessed 28th May 2014] Obiwuru T. Oluwalaiye, B. Okwu, T. (2011) External and Internal Environments of Businesses in Nigeria: An Appraisal in International Bulletin of Business Administration (12) OGUNRO, O. (2014).International Journal of Academic Research in Business and Social Sciences. 4th ed. Rufus Giwa Polythecnic, Owo, Ondo state, Nigeria: HR Mars. Question 2 1.0 INRODUCTION: Macroeconomics can be defined as study of economics that is more concerned with government structures, behavior and decision making which affects the country as a whole. It deals more with the country’s economy which includes; gross domestic product (GDP), unemployment rate, price indices, exchange rate, Inflation. When a country is experiencing macroeconomic stability, it means that the country’s economy is very stable; the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is very good, unemployment is reduced to the minimal rate and low inflation. The aim of this essay is to examine the effectiveness of various approaches that may be used to reduce macroeconomic instability; while exploring different policies which a country’s government could use to achieve macroeconomic goals 2.0 AN OVERVIEW OF MACROECONOMICS: Macroeconomics is concerned with government economic performance, it focuses on the economic trend of a nation. Macroeconomics deals with factors that that affect the country’s economy. Macroeconomic instability is major concern to any government and all possible measure must be taken to ensure that economic stability is maintained. Any country that suffers macroeconomic instability will possibly have a high rate of inflation, unemployment, low GDP or total recession. Different kinds of measure are taking by different countries to ensure that they maintained a stable economy. Below are some highlighted measures/policies which can be used to ensure that macroeconomic instability is reduced. 2.1 Privatization Privatization can be defined as a process by which some inefficient and ineffective sector is being transferred to be managed by more efficient private sector for the benefit of economic growth. This will allow the government to perform its primary functions, that is administration of law and order thereby leaving the actual running of business enterprise to private sectors. Nwoye (2012) defined privatization as the transfer of ownership and control of enterprise from state to the private sector. The main reason why government privatize the public sector is because of economic stability and this could be explained below: To enhance efficiency in the public sector: there are so many inefficiency in public sector due to nonchalant attitude of the workers. Most of the public servants believe that government are for the people, so they can do whatever they want without being fired and this affect the governments economy, there are so many ghost workers being paid by the government which affects the expenditure. But when handed over to private sector, they become more efficient and generate more revenue for the government because the private sector cannot afford to lose money like the government, they will cut down the cost overhead to the barest minimum to be able to generate revenue which will help in the economic growth of the country. To decontrol the economic system by reducing unnecessary administrative controls of the government : deregulating the economic system helps the government to focus more on the administration of the nation by implementing law and order and good policies that will help in the economic growth. The government handing over the business management to the private sector will reduce their cost overhead and also increase efficiency in the administration of the nation. To decrease the volume of unproductive instruments in the public sector: as mentioned earlier, there are a lot of unproductive people and instrument in the public sector, nepotism and godfathers has contributed to inefficiency in the public sector where round peg is been put in a square hole. But when these sectors are being privatized, all these unproductive people and instrument will be removed and replaced with more productive instrument which will increase the employment and delivering of the goods and services thereby generating sufficient revenue for the government. To fortify the role of the private sector in the economy which will warranty employment and higher capacity utilization: Fortification of the role of the private sector in the economy is very important as this will help in decreasing the level of unemployment in the country and which helps in economic stability. Reduction of political interference in the public sector: politicial interference in the public sector increases the rate of corruption which affects the economy, but without the interference of the politicians when privatized, the sectors will be more productive with less corrupt practices. 2.2 Public Private Partnership (PPP) Omoh (2012) confirmed that government across the globe have come to terms with the fact that public sector cannot provide the needed infrastructure and have come to the conclusion that private sector participation in the provision of infrastructure in inevitable. Public private partnership is where the government and private sector goes into partnership to bring economic growth through building and construction of infrastructures, managing them for a shot term or long term and finally hand them over to the government after a stipulated period as agreed. This partnership helps to increase the gross domestic product and it can be done is so many ways; it could take the form of Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT), Build-Operate-Own (BOO), Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT), Design-Build-Operate-Transfer (DBOT), Design-Build-Finance and Operate (DBFO). Other less common ones are; Build-Rent/Lease-Transfer (BRT or BLT) Build-Transfer and Operate (BTO). Omoh (2012) The Scope for the public private partnership ranges from Power generation plant and transmission, roads and bridges, ports, airports, railways, inland container depots and logistics hubs, gas and petroleum, water supply, housing, educational facilities (e.g. Schools, Universities) and healthcare facilities. This helps the government to spend less money on these areas while the partners will finance and manage these sectors for some time to recover their invested money. 2.3 Fiscal Policy Heakal (2013) defines fiscal policy as the means by which a government adjust its spending activity and tax rates in order to monitor and influence a nation’s economy. Heakal (2003) also confirms that fiscal policy is based on the renowned British economist, John Mynard Keynes, who is known as Keynesian economics; his theory shows that government can influence macroeconomic stability / productivity level by increasing or decreasing tax levels and public spending. This influence will in turn curb inflation, increase employment and maintain a healthy value of money. Gbosi (2008) says that fiscal policy entails the government’s management of the economy through the controlling of its income and spending power in order to achieve certain desired macroeconomics objectives in which economic growth and stability is among them. Jhingan (2006) also acknowledges the power of fiscal policy as an instrument of macroeconomic stabilization. Iyeli Ijomah (2013) also established that if fiscal policy is used with circumspection and synchronized with other measures, it will possibly smoothen out business cycle which leads to economic growth and stability. Based on the above explanations, it could be said that Fiscal policy is a way or method the government is using to control economic goals in order to maintain stability in the nation’s economy. Fiscal policy can come as increase in taxation or government expenditure in order to influence aggregate demand (AD) and level of economic activity. AD can be defined as the total level of planned expenditure in an economy (AD= C+ I + G + X – M) where C= Consumer spending, I= Investment, G=Government Spending, X= export, M= Imports) The government might implement the fiscal policy in order to stimulate economic growth in a period of a recession, the government can also use fiscal policy to keep inflation low. Mainly, fiscal policy aims to stabilize economic growth in order to avoid boom and bust economic cycle. 2.4 Taxation Anyanwu (1997) defined taxation as the compulsory transfer or payment from private individuals, institutions or groups to the government. Nzotta (2007) stated the four key issues that must be understood for taxation to play its function in the society; first, a tax is a compulsory contribution made by citizens to the government and this contributions is for general common use. Secondly, a tax imposes a general obligation on the taxpayer. Thirdly, there is a presumption that the contribution to the public revenue made by taxpayer may not be equivalent to the benefits received. Finally, a tax is not imposed on a citizen by government because it has rendered specific services to him or his family Anyanwu (1993) also pointed out that there are three basic objectives of taxation; these are to raise revenue for the government, to regulate economic activities and to control income and employment. Nzotta (2007) also confirmed that taxes generally have allocation, distribution and stabilization functions. The allocation function of taxes talks about determination of the pattern of production, the goods that should be produced, who produces them, the distribution function of taxes relates to the manner in which the effective demand over economic goods is divided among the individuals in the society while the stabilization function of taxes deals with attaining high level of employment, a reasonable level of price stability and appropriate rate of economic growth, with allowances for effects on trade. Conclusion: The above listed methods/ policies has been used by so many countries to maintain economic stability and Nigeria as a country has introduced these policies which is now helping the government to stabilize the economy. References Anyanwu, J.C., 1993. Monetary Economics: Theory, Policy and Institutions. Hybrid Publishers, Onitsha Anyanwu, J.C., 1997. Nigerian Public Finance. Joanne Educational Publishers, Onitsha Gbosi, A.N (2008) Contemporary Macroeconomic problems and stabilization policies, Portharcourt, Automatic Ventures. Heakal. R. (2013) Investopedia. What is fiscal policy? [Online] Available rom: http://www.investopedia.com/articles/04/051904.asp [accessed 2nd June 2014]. Iyeli I.I Ijomah M.A (2013) A Re-examination of fiscal policy applicability in Nigeria’s economic growth process: An econometric policy evaluation from empirical evidence. Vol 3. (4 July 2013) P.180 – 188 Jhingan, M.L (2006) Macroeconomic Theory. New Delhi. Vrinda Publishers. Nwoye .I. 2013, Privatization of Public Enterprises in Nigeria: The views and counterviews. [Online] Available from: http://www.globalizacija.com/doc_en/e0062pri.htm [Accessed 3rd June 2014] Nzotta, S.M., 2007. Tax evasion problems in Nigeria: A critique. Niger. Account. 40(2): 40-43 Omoh G. (2012) Public Private Partnership: The new way to infrastructural provision, Vanguard, [Online] 17th December. P.7. Available from: www.vanguardngr.com/2012/12/public-private-partnershi-the-new-way-to-infrastructural-provision [Accessed 30th May 2014]

The Comparison and Contrast of I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud & The Prese

‘I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud’ and ‘The Preservation of Flowers’: two notable poems, two very different styles of writing. This essay will look at their contrasts and similarities, from relevant formal aspects, to the deeper meanings hidden between the lines. We will look at both writers use of: rhyme scheme, sound patterning, word choice, figurative language and punctuation. The essay will also touch a little on the backgrounds of the writers: themselves, and their inspiration, with the intention of gaining a greater understanding of both texts. The structure and form of both poems is evidently dissimilar. Wordsworth’s poem follows a clear rhyme scheme: ABABCC; and contains four stanzas of six lines each. In each stanza, the first line rhymes with the third, the second with the fourth and the stanza concludes with a rhyming couplet. Bird’s sixteen line- narrative verse does not follow any formal rhyme scheme. She describes full rhyme as being â€Å"too strident†E1 for her personal taste. Choosing instead: to use consonance and near rhymes. Despite this seemingly unconventional style with which the poem is written, it does follow an iambic pentameter, with every line containing five stressed syllables, except line 13 which contains six. ‘Cer-tain cus-to-mers, he slips an ex-tra rose’13. This is a very clever play on words, using the term ‘extra rose’ to mirror the extra syllable in the line. This patently demonstrates Bird’s astute understanding of structure and form. She explains – â€Å"There's a poetry joke in there too - each line has five stresses, but the 'extra rose' line has six stresses. An extra rose, an extra stress.†E2. This again presents another parallel to Wordsworth’s lyric, where the meter is not u... ... he has a point. Contrary to this statement however, there remains the reality: that without dissection and close analysis, the true meanings encoded within these two texts, might remain perpetually esoteric. Bibliography .T Furniss & M Bath. 1996. Reading Poetry: an introduction. Harlow: Pearson Education Limited. .Preface to Lyrical Ballads, in Wordsworth (1968) Lyrical ballads, pp. 241-72, 246. ‘Organic sensibility’ refers to the responsiveness of the senses. See ‘The Tables Turned’, in Wordsworth (1968) The Lyrical Ballads, pp. 105-6. .Internet 1 http://www.enotes.com/william-wordsworth/q-and-a/what-elements-nature-daffodils-poem-144087 .Internet 2 http://www.wordsworth.org.uk/poetry/index.asp?pageid=101 .Internet 3 http://rpo.library.utoronto.ca/poem/2337.html .Internet4 http://academic.brooklyn.cuny.edu/english/melani/cs6/rom.html

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz Essay -- Fantasy Literature, L. Frank Baum

People start their lives with open eyes and open hearts, but society corrupts them, turning them into shadows of what they once were. Children enter the world not judging anyone, and having no limitations; they believe anything is possible. As they grow and mature, they loose this valued quality in exchange for limitations, and settling into the status quo set by society. Children, at an early age, are fascinated with fairy tales, featuring princes and princesses living â€Å"happily ever after† and are instantly drawn to beauty and bright, colorful worlds, which in reality have been shaded by society. Authors began to grasp the imaginative quality we all once embodied, and channeled those thoughts and desires into fantasy novels, creating utopias and ideal societies for characters to experience. These fantasy novels address the American dream as well- living a successful, blissful life, and usually, finding love. Authors such as L. Frank Baum, J.M Barrie and J. K Rowling wrot e these fantasy books to capture the desires and reams of Americans. Fantasy novels blossomed into an ideal method for authors to express the ideal society and American dreams of the era in which they were written. In The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, by L Frank Baum, a young girl, Dorothy Gale, is thrown into Munchkin County, a small city in the Land of Oz, when a cyclone comes ripping through Kansas, her hometown. She is immediately greeted by the munchkins, and Glenda, the good witch of the north, who informs her that she has killed the Wicked Witch of the East. Dorothy only wishes to return to her farm in Kansas, however, this is only possible if she travels to â€Å"Emerald City† to plead for help from the mighty Wizard of Oz. Along the way, she encounters various o... ...so courage in themselves to speak up, and the Tin Woodman’s desire for a heart typifies Americas want for compassion from a leader and from each other. Another classic children’s book, Peter Pan and Wendy, commonly known as Peter Pan also presented a new, limitless world, where there was eternal youth and innocence, and good triumphed over evil. In addition to these early classics, the Harry Potter series, written by J. K Rowling, also created a magical world where good and innocence defeated evil and corruption. Harry Potter, an honest and clever young boy is idolized for his intelligence and power; Two commendable traits every leader should possess. Americans have been drawn to fantasy novels, similar to fairy tales all through history, and even today because they amuse their desires for innocence, the past, and the domination of good over evil- a greater world.

The Affects of Illage Chemical on The Human Body :: social issues

The Affects of Illage Chemical on The Human Body Marijuana is a popular, and illegal, drug. Its largest consumers are young adults. Marijuana is smoked in a pipe, bong, or rolled in a joint. Thirty-seven percent of people between ages 12-17 have tried marijuana. Marijuana gives a slight buzzing feeling of light-headedness. Experimentation with marijuana is dangerous because studies show that 60% of people who smoke marijuana on a regular basis move on to try harder drugs soon after. Marijuana tends to diminish the ambition and motivation in the user. In the long run, it may cause lung cancer and other respiratory problems. There is compelling medical evidence that marijuana smoking is more harmful than cigarette smoking.In addition, the main active chemical in marijuana produces has hallucinative effect when used in any amount. Marijuana has many effects on the human body. Nausea, headaches, dizziness, confusion, coughing, asthma, upper respiratory problems. Difficulty with short term memory during effects and during periods of frequent use, racing heart, agitation,tenseness, mild to severe anxiety panic attacks at very high doses by smoking. These may last for 1-6 weeks after cessation of use and can include anxiety, anhedonia headaches, general unease/discomfort, difficulty sleeping, and a desire to smoke pot. Cocaine is another popular, illegal, street drug. Cocaine is snorted or smoked as crack. A cheaper and, as a result of being so affordable, more addictive way. Cocaine gives the user a sense of well-being and extra energy. Cocaine is one of the most dangerous drugs. In 1995, over 500,000 emergency room accidents were cocaine related.Cocaine is one of the worst drugs because it causes respiratory illness and kills mucus membranes. Cocaine has the effects of physical, psycholgical, withdrawal, and overdose. The Physical effects are inceases heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature. Increases the blood pressure, temp, pulse, and resp., dilates the pupils, decreased sleep and appetite, seizures, strokes, heart attacks, death. The Psycholgial effect is increases alertness, wakefulness, elevates the mood, mild to high degree of euphoria, increases athletic performance, decreases fatigue, clearer thinking, increases concentration, increases energy, increased irritability, insomnia, restlessness. With high doses may exhibit a pattern of psychosis with confused and disorganized behavior, irritability, fear, paranoia, hallucinations, may become extremely antisocial and aggressive. wirhdrawal symptoms Intense cravings, hunger, irritability, apathy, depression, paranoia, suicidal ideation, loss of sex drive, insomnia or excessive sleep. Often, more cocaine is taken to reduce these effects.

The Vampire Diaries: The Fury Chapter Twelve

Stefan looked at Elena, snow crystals dusting his dark hair. â€Å"What about Matt?† â€Å"I remember-something. It's not clear. But that first night, when I wasn't myself -did I see Matt then? Did I-?† Fear and a sick sense of dismay swelled her throat and cut her words off. But she didn't need to finish, and Stefan didn't need to answer. She saw it in his eyes. â€Å"It was the only way, Elena,† he said then. â€Å"You would have died without human blood. Would you rather have attacked somebody unwilling, hurt them, maybe killed them? The need can drive you to that. Is that what you would have wanted?† â€Å"No,† Elena said violently. â€Å"But did it have to be Matt? Oh, don't answer that; I can't think of anybody else, either.† She took a shaky breath. â€Å"But now I'm worried about him, Stefan. I haven't seen him since that night. Is he okay? What has he said to you?† â€Å"Not much,† said Stefan, looking away. † ‘Leave me alone' was about the gist of it. He also denied that anything happened that night, and said that you were dead.† â€Å"Sounds like one of those individuals who can't cope,† Damon commented. â€Å"Oh, shut up!† said Elena. â€Å"You keep out of this, and while you're at it, you might think about poor Vickie Bennett. How d'you think she's coping these days?† â€Å"It might help if I knew who this Vickie Bennett is. You keep talking about her, but I've never met the girl.† â€Å"Yes, you have. Don't play games with me, Damon-the cemetery, remember? The ruined church? The girl you left wandering around there in her slip?† â€Å"Sorry, no. And I usually do remember girls I leave wandering in their slips.† â€Å"I suppose Stefan did it, then,† Elena said sarcastically. Anger flashed to the surface of Damon's eyes, covered quickly with a disturbing smile. â€Å"Maybe he did. Maybe you did. It's all the same to me, except that I'm getting a little tired of accusations. And now-â€Å" â€Å"Wait,† said Stefan, with surprising mildness. â€Å"Don't go yet. We should talk-† â€Å"I'm afraid I have a previous engagement.† There was a flurry of wings, and Stefan and Elena were alone. Elena put a knuckle to her lips. â€Å"Damn. I didn't mean to make him angry. After he was really almost civilized all evening.† â€Å"Never mind,† said Stefan. â€Å"He likes to be angry. What were you saying about Matt?† Elena saw the weariness in Stefan's face and put an arm around him. â€Å"We won't talk about it now, but I think tomorrow maybe we should go see him. To tell him†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Elena lifted her other hand helplessly. She didn't know what she wanted to tell Matt; she only knew that she needed to do something. talk about it now, but I think tomorrow maybe we should go see him. To tell him†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Elena lifted her other hand helplessly. She didn't know what she wanted to tell Matt; she only knew that she needed to do something. Elena looked at him hard. â€Å"Are you sure?† â€Å"Yes.† â€Å"But-will you be all right? I should stay with you-â€Å" â€Å"I'll be fine, Elena,† Stefan said gently, â€Å"Go on.† Elena hesitated, then nodded. â€Å"I won't be long,† she promised him. Unseen, Elena slipped around the side of the frame house with the peeling paint and the crooked mailbox labeled Honeycutt. Matt's window was unlocked. Careless boy, she thought reprovingly. Don't you know some-thing might come creeping in? She eased it open, but of course that was as far as she could go. An invisible barrier that felt like a soft wall of thickened air blocked her way. â€Å"Matt,† she whispered. The room was dark, but she could see a vague shape on the bed. A digital clock with pale green numbers showed that it was 12:15. â€Å"Matt,† she whispered again. The figure stirred. â€Å"Uh?† â€Å"Matt, I don't want to frighten you.† She made her voice soothing, trying to wake him gently rather than startle him out of his wits. â€Å"But it's me, Elena, and I wanted to talk. Only you've got to ask me in first. Can you ask me in?† â€Å"Uh. C'mon in.† Elena was amazed at the lack of surprise in his voice. It was only after she'd gotten over the sill that she realized he was still asleep. â€Å"Matt. Matt,† she whispered, afraid to go too close. The room was stifling and overheated, the radiator going full blast. She could see a bare foot sticking out of the mound of blankets on the bed and blond hair at the top. â€Å"Matt?† Tentatively, she leaned over and touched him. That got a response. With an explosive grunt, Matt sat bolt upright, whipping around. When his eyes met hers, they were wide and staring. Elena found herself trying to look small and harmless, nonthreatening. She backed away against the wall. â€Å"I didn't mean to frighten you. I know it's a shock. But will you talk to me?† He simply went on staring at her. His yellow hair was sweaty and ruffled up like wet chicken feathers. She could see his pulse pounding in his bare neck. She was afraid he was going to get up and dash out of the room. Then his shoulders relaxed, slumping, and he slowly shut his eyes. He was afraid he was going to get up and dash out of the room. â€Å"Yes,† she whispered. â€Å"You're dead.† â€Å"No. I'm here.† â€Å"Dead people don't come back. My dad didn't come back.† â€Å"I didn't really die. I just changed.† Matt's eyes were still shut in repudiation, and Elena felt a cold wave of hopelessness wash over her. â€Å"But you wish I had died, don't you? I'll leave now,† she whispered. Matt's face cracked and he started to cry. â€Å"No. Oh, no. Oh, don't, Matt, please.† She found herself cradling him, fighting not to cry herself. â€Å"Matt, I'm sorry; I shouldn't even have come here.† â€Å"Don't leave,† he sobbed. â€Å"Don't go away.† â€Å"I won't.† Elena lost the fight, and tears fell onto Matt's damp hair. â€Å"I didn't mean to hurt you, ever,† she said. â€Å"Not ever, Matt. All those times, all those things I did- I never wanted to hurt you. Truly†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Then she stopped talking and just held him. After a while his breathing quieted and he sat back, swiping his face with a fistful of sheet. His eyes avoided hers. There was a look on his face, not just of embarrassment, but of distrust, as if he were bracing himself for something he dreaded. â€Å"Okay, so you're here. You're alive,† he said roughly. â€Å"So what do you want?† Elena was dumbfounded. â€Å"Come on, there must be something. What is it?† New tears welled up, but Elena gulped them back. â€Å"I guess I deserve that. I know I do. But for once, Matt, I want absolutely nothing. I came to apologize, to say that I'm sorry for using you-not just that one night, but always. I care about you, and I care if you hurt. I thought maybe I could make things better.† After a heavy silence, she added, â€Å"I guess I will leave now.† â€Å"No, wait. Wait a second.† Matt scrubbed at his face with the sheet again. â€Å"Listen. That was stupid, and I'm a jerk-â€Å" â€Å"That was the truth and you're a gentleman. Or you'd've told me to go take a hike a long time ago.† â€Å"No, I'm a stupid jerk. I should be banging my head against the wall with joy because you're not dead. I will in a minute. Listen.† He grabbed her wrist and Elena looked at it in mild surprise. â€Å"I don't care if you're the Creature from the Black Lagoon, It, Godzilla and Frankenstein all rolled up into one. I just-â€Å" â€Å"Matt.† Panicked, Elena put her free hand over his mouth. â€Å"I know. You're engaged to the guy in the black cape. Don't worry; I remember him. I even like him, though God knows why.† Matt took a breath and seemed to calm down. â€Å"Look, I don't know if Stefan told you. He said a bunch of stuff to me -about being evil, about not being sorry for what he did to Tyler. You know what I'm talking about?† â€Å"I know. You're engaged to the guy in the black cape. Don't worry; I remember him. I even like him, though God knows why.† Matt took a breath and seemed to calm down. â€Å"Look, I don't know if Stefan told you. He said a bunch of stuff to me -about being evil, about not being sorry for what he did to Tyler. You know what I'm talking about?† Matt nodded. â€Å"So it was your basic crap. I should have known.† â€Å"Well, it is and it isn't. The need is strong, stronger than you can imagine.† It was dawning on Elena that she hadn't fed today and that she'd been hungry before they'd set out for Alaric's. â€Å"In fact-Matt, I'd better go. Just one thing-if there's a dance tomorrow night, don't go. Something's going to happen then, something bad. We're going to try to guard it, but I don't know what we can do.† â€Å"Who's ‘we'?† Matt said sharply. â€Å"Stefan and Damon-I think Damon-and me. And Meredith and Bonnie†¦ and Alaric Saltzman. Don't ask about Alaric. It's a long story.† â€Å"But what are you guarding against!† â€Å"I forgot; you don't know. That's a long story, too, but†¦ well, the short answer is, whatever killed me. Whatever made those dogs attack people at my memorial service. It's something bad, Matt, that's been around Fell's Church for a while now. And we're going to try to stop it from doing anything tomorrow night.† She tried not to squirm. â€Å"Look, I'm sorry, but I really should leave.† Her eyes drifted, despite herself, to the broad blue vein in his neck. When she managed to tear her gaze away and look at his face, she saw shock giving way to sudden understanding. Then to something incredible: acceptance. â€Å"It's okay,† Matt said. She wasn't sure she'd heard correctly. â€Å"Matt?† â€Å"I said, it's okay. It didn't hurt me before.† â€Å"No. No, Matt, really. I didn't come here for that-â€Å" â€Å"I know. That's why I want to. I want to give you something you didn't ask for.† After a moment he said, â€Å"For old friends' sake.† Stefan, Elena was thinking. But Stefan had told her to come, and come alone. Stefan had known, she realized. And it was all right. It was his gift to Matt-and to her. But I'm coming back to you, Stefan, she thought. As she leaned toward him, Matt said, â€Å"I'm going to come and help you tomorrow, you know. Even if I'm not invited.† Then her lips touched his throat. December 13, Friday Dear Diary, I know I've written that before, or thought it at least. But tonight is the night, the big one, when everything is going to happen. This is it. Stefan feels it, too. He came back from school today to tell me that the dance is still on-Mr. Newcastle didn't want to cause a panic by canceling it or something. What they're going to do is have â€Å"security† outside, which means the police, I guess. And maybe Mr. Smallwood and some of his friends with rifles. Whatever's going to happen, I don't think they can stop it. I don't know if we can, either. It's been snowing all day. The pass is blocked, which means nothing gets in or out of town on wheels. Until the snowplow gets up there, which won't be until morning, which will be too late. And the air has a funny feeling to it. Not just snow. It's as if something even colder than that is waiting. It's pulled back the way the ocean pulls back before a tidal wave. When it lets go†¦ I thought about my other diary today, the one under the floorboards of my bedroom closet. If I own anything anymore, I own that diary. I thought about getting it out, but I don't want to go home again. I don't think I could cope, and I know Aunt Judith couldn't if she saw me. I'm surprised anybody's been able to cope. Meredith, Bonnie-especially Bonnie. Well, Meredith, too, considering what her family has been through. Matt. They're good and loyal friends. It's funny, I used to think that without a whole galaxy of friends and admirers I wouldn't survive. Now I'm perfectly happy with three, thank you. Because they're real friends. I didn't know how much I cared about them before. Or about Margaret, or Aunt Judith even. And everybody at school†¦ I know a few weeks ago I was saying that I didn't care if the entire population of Robert E. Lee dropped dead, but that isn't true. Tonight I'm going to do my best to protect them. I know I'm jumping from subject to subject, but I'm just talking about things that are important to me. Kind of gathering them together in my mind. Just in case. Well, it's time. Stefan is waiting. I'm going to finish this last line and then go. I think we're going to win. I hope so. We're going to try. The history room was warm and brightly lit. On the other side of the school building, the cafeteria was even brighter, shining with Christmas lights and decorations. Upon arriving, Elena had scrutinized it from a cautious distance, watching the couples arrive for the dance and pass by the sheriff's officers at the door. Feeling Damon's silent presence behind her, she had pointed out a girl with long, light brown hair. â€Å"I'll take your word for it,† he replied. Now, she looked around their makeshift headquarters for the night. Alaric's desk had been cleared, and he was bent over a rough map of the school. Meredith leaned in beside him, her dark hair sweeping his sleeve. Matt and Bonnie were out mingling with the dancegoers in the parking lot, and Stefan and Damon were prowling the perimeter of the school grounds. They were going to take turns. â€Å"You'd better stay inside,† Alaric had told Elena. â€Å"All we need is for somebody to see you and start chasing you with a stake.† â€Å"I've been walking around town all week,† Elena said, amused. â€Å"If I don't want to be seen, you don't see me.† But she agreed to stay in the history room and coordinate. It's like a castle, she thought as she watched Alaric plot out the positions of sheriff's officers and other men on the map. And we're defending it. Me and my loyal knights. The round, flat-faced clock on the wall ticked the minutes by. Elena watched it as she let people in the door and let them out again. She poured hot coffee out of a Thermos for those who wanted it. She listened to the reports come in. â€Å"Everything's quiet on the north side of the school.† â€Å"Caroline just got crowned snow queen. Big surprise.† â€Å"Some rowdy kids in the parking lot-the sheriff just rounded them up†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Midnight came and went. â€Å"Maybe we were wrong,† Stefan said an hour or so later. It was the first time they'd all been inside together since the beginning of the evening. â€Å"Maybe it's happening somewhere else,† said Bonnie, emptying out a boot and peering into it. â€Å"There's no way to know where it's going to happen,† Elena said firmly. â€Å"But we weren't wrong about it happening.† â€Å"Maybe,† said Alaric thoughtfully, â€Å"there is a way. To find out where it's going to happen, I mean.† As heads raised questioningly, he said, â€Å"We need a precognition.† All eyes turned to Bonnie. â€Å"Oh, no,† Bonnie said. â€Å"I'm through with all that. I hate it.† â€Å"It's a great gift-† began Alaric. â€Å"It's a great big pain. Look, you don't understand. The ordinary predictions are bad enough. It seems like most of the time I'm finding out things I don't want to know. But getting taken over-that's awful. And afterward I don't even remember what I've said. It's horrible.† know. But getting taken over-that's awful. And afterward I don't even remember what I've said. It's horrible.† Bonnie sighed. â€Å"It's what happened to me in the church,† she said patiently. â€Å"I can do other kinds of predictions, like divining with water or reading palms†-she glanced at Elena, and then away-â€Å"and stuff like that. But then there are times when -someone-takes me over and just uses me to talk for them. It's like having somebody else in my body.† â€Å"Like in the graveyard, when you said there was something there waiting for me,† said Elena. â€Å"Or when you warned me not to go near the bridge. Or when you came to dinner and said that Death, my death, was in the house.† She looked automatically around at Damon, who returned her gaze impassively. Still, that had been wrong, she thought. Damon hadn't been her death. So what had the prophecy meant? For just an instant something glimmered in her mind, but before she could get a grasp on it, Meredith interrupted. â€Å"It's like another voice that speaks through Bonnie,† Meredith explained to Alaric. â€Å"She even looks different. Maybe you weren't close enough in the church to see.† â€Å"But why didn't you tell me about this?† Alaric was excited. â€Å"This could be important. This-entity-whatever it is-could give us vital information. It could clear up the mystery of the Other Power, or at least give us a clue how to fight it.† Bonnie was shaking her head. â€Å"No. It isn't something I can just whistle up, and it doesn't answer questions. It just happens to me. And I hate it.† â€Å"You mean you can't think of anything that tends to set it off? Anything that's led to it happening before?† Elena and Meredith, who knew very well what could set it off, looked at each other. Elena bit the inside of her cheek. It was Bonnie's choice. It had to be Bonnie's choice. Bonnie, who was holding her head in her hands, shot a sideways glance through red curls at Elena. Then she shut her eyes and moaned. â€Å"Candles,† she said. â€Å"What?† â€Å"Candles. A candle flame might do it. I can't be sure, you understand; I'm not promising anything-â€Å" â€Å"Somebody go ransack the science lab,† said Alaric. It was a scene reminiscent of the day Alaric had come to school, when he'd asked them all to put their chairs in a circle. Elena looked at the circle of faces lit eerily from below by the candle's flame. There was Matt, with his jaw set. Beside him, Meredith, her dark lashes throwing shadows upward. And Alaric, leaning forward in his eagerness. Then Damon, light and shadow dancing over the planes of his face. And Stefan, high cheekbones looking too sharply defined to Elena's eyes. And finally, Bonnie, looking fragile and pale even in the golden light of the candle. â€Å"I'm just going to look into the candle,† Bonnie said, her voice quivering slightly. â€Å"And not think of anything. I'm going to try to-leave myself open to it.† She began to breathe deeply, gazing into the candle flame. And then it happened, just as it had before. Bonnie's face smoothed out, all expression draining away. Her eyes went blank as the stone cherub's in the graveyard. She didn't say a word. That was when Elena realized they hadn't agreed on what to ask. She groped through her mind to find a question before Bonnie lost contact. â€Å"Where can we find the Other Power?† she said, just as Alaric blurted out, â€Å"Who are you?† Their voices mingled, their questions intertwining. Bonnie's blank face turned, sweeping the circle with sightless eyes. Then the voice that wasn't Bonnie's voice said, â€Å"Come and see.† â€Å"Wait a minute,† Matt said, as Bonnie stood up, still entranced, and made for the door. â€Å"Where's she going?† Meredith grabbed for her coat. â€Å"Are we going with her?† â€Å"Don't touch her!† said Alaric, jumping up as Bonnie went out the door. Elena looked at Stefan, and then at Damon. With one accord, they followed, trailing Bonnie down the empty, echoing hall. â€Å"Where are we going? Which question is she answering?† Matt demanded. Elena could only shake her head. Alaric was jogging to keep up with Bonnie's gliding pace. She slowed down as they emerged into the snow, and to Elena's surprise, walked up to Alaric's car in the staff parking lot and stood beside it. â€Å"We can't all fit; I'll follow with Matt,† Meredith said swiftly. Elena, her skin chilled with apprehension as well as cold air, got in the back of Alaric's car when he opened it for her, with Damon and Stefan on either side. Bonnie sat up front. She was looking straight ahead, and she didn't speak. But as Alaric pulled out of the parking lot, she lifted one white hand and pointed. Right on Lee Street and then left on Arbor Green. Straight out toward Elena's house and then right on Thunderbird. Heading toward Old Creek Road. It was then that Elena realized where they were going. They took the other bridge to the cemetery, the one everyone always called â€Å"the new bridge† to distinguish it from Wickery Bridge, which was now gone. They were approaching from the gate side, the side Tyler had driven up when he took Elena to the ruined church. Alaric's car stopped just where Tyler's had stopped. Meredith pulled up behind them. â€Å"Where are you taking us?† she said. â€Å"Listen to me. Will you just tell us which question you're answering?† â€Å"Come and see.† Helplessly, Elena looked at the others. Then she stepped over the threshold. Bonnie walked slowly to the white marble tomb, and stopped. Elena looked at it, and then at Bonnie's ghostly face. Every hair on her arms and the back of her neck was standing up. â€Å"Oh, no†¦Ã¢â‚¬  she whispered. â€Å"Not that.† â€Å"Elena, what are you talking about?† Meredith said. Dizzy, Elena looked down at the marble countenances of Thomas and Honoria Fell, lying on the stone lid of their tomb. â€Å"This thing opens,† she whispered.