Bus 560 Business Ethics - 1873 Words

BUS560 Module 2: Organizational Ethics BUS560 Module 2: Organizational Ethics Check Your Understanding 1. Consider the functional departments reviewed in chapter 3. Which department do you think faces the greatest number of ethical challenges? Why? It would seem that the finance or bookkeeping department of any company faces the greatest number of ethical challenges because the opportunity to manipulate the accounting and misrepresent or otherwise take money from the company is ‘ever-present.’ However, there are opportunities for unethical behavior in all areas of a business – and in all businesses in the economy. 2. Provide three examples of unethical behavior that you have observed at the company you work or (or worked†¦show more content†¦A second example of unethical behavior was exhibited by the business owner himself – who regularly employed ‘illegal aliens’ who were not lawfully permitted to work in this country. Certainly observing the desperation of these individuals firsthand – and their willingness to do any type of work – fanned a swell of empathy in me for the situation – but it is strictly against the law to employ undocumented workers and it actually results in manipulation and exploitation of these works that is akin to slavery. Further, these workers are willing to be paid little for their efforts and they take jobs from people who are here legally and need work. A third type of unethical behavior that I was surprised to see was sexual harassment in the workplace. There were few women employed by the business but those who were there were regularly submitted to off-colored comments and some actual requests for sexual favors – that, although said ‘in jest’ – caused the women to feel uncomfortable and that keeping their jobs relied upon them laughing it off or taking it in stride. Sometimes the employer engaged in the inappropriate humor and flirtations and this seemed extremely dangerous. It was obvious that this activity is easy to â€Å"fall into† and then not take seriously as it progresses and becomes more and more blatant. 3. Philip Kotler argues that professional marketers â€Å"should have the same ambivalence as nuclear scientists who help build nuclear bombs.† Is that a valid argument?Show MoreRelatedKkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkk6406 Words   |  26 PagesModeling Dynamic Systems Linear Systems Theory (AERO 550/EECS 560) Vehicle Control Systems Control of Advanced Powertrain Systems Introduction to MEMS Integrated Microsystems Digital Communication Signals and Systems Fiber Optical Communications Mechatronic Systems Design Microelectromechanical Systems 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 4 3 3 3 3 4 3 3 4 3 4 3 3 3 6. 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Case Study China Losing Its Allure - 863 Words

TO: Mary Teresa Barra, CEO FROM: [Student’s name] DATE: December 14, 2015 SUBJECT: China Losing its Allure Since the early 1980s, China has been one of the fastest growing markets. Policy shifts by the Communist government opened their doors to foreign firm investment in the country. The purpose of this memo is to inform you that firms foreign to China, like us in General Motors, will have a difficult time doing business there moving forward. The reasons why are mainly because of a government becoming increasingly hostile to foreign firms and the emergence of local competitors. At an International Corporate Finance presentation at Baruch College on December 8th, we learned that the Chinese marketplace is losing its allure.†¦show more content†¦Na Li made the point that China accounted for 8% of global private consumption during 2011-13. This is of particular importance to us because our GM International Operations accounted for over 4 million cars sold of the nearly 10 million we sold in 2014, according to Statista. We are engaged in several joint-ventures, most notably with state-owned Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (10K, 2015). GM cannot be a cost leader in the automotive industry because of the expense of our production costs related to the United Auto Workers union. Recently GM exported its Buick brand to the states using cheaper Chinese labor (Nagesh Stoll, 2015). But as the presentation pointed out, wages for talented workers are going up. Of which we employ 58,000 in China (10K, 2015). One suggestion during the presentation was that we need to automate the manufacturing process. As Alan Tang pointed out, firms that invest in China are exposed to both political and financial risks. He presented examples of high tech firms being singled out by the Chinese government for political reasons. For us, the Chinese government institutes high taxes on what it deems luxury cars (BMI, 2015). This means Chinese consumers need to travel to bypass these expensive taxes on our goods. We do avoid these taxes through sales of our Chinese joint-venture cars like the Baojun, but our wholly owned divisions suffer.

Summary of ‘the Gardener’ Free Essays

When Helen Turrell became pregnant she was ashamed because she was not married. She left her home in England to have the baby in the south of France. When she returned to England, she pretended that the baby was really her brother’s child. We will write a custom essay sample on Summary of ‘the Gardener’ or any similar topic only for you Order Now The brother, George, lived in India but he had died falling off his horse. This meant that Helen had to look after the child. Helen told other lies. She said that she had to go to the south of France because she was ill. More Summary of Devil at My Heels She said the child had been born in India, but had been brought to the south of France by a nurse who had been dismissed when the child became ill, and she also said that she had given the child’s mother some money. The child was called Michael. Helen didn’t tell him that she was his real mother. She said that she was his aunt, and that he was her nephew. Michael was sent to a private school. At school, he was told that he was born outside mirage /illusion/ vision. When the First World War began, Michael joined the army. He did not have to do much fighting, but he was killed by an exploding shell that completely buried his body. After the war, Michael was reburied in a huge cemetery in Belgium. After that, Helen decided to visit the grave of Michael. On her way to cemetery, she met a woman named Mrs Scarsworth, who said that she visited graves for her friends who could not come herself. She took photographs of the graves. Late at night, Mrs Scarsworth came into Helen’s hotel room. She said that she was telling lies. Her real reason for visiting the cemetery was to visit the grave of someone special to her (probably a secret lover). On the next morning, Helen visited the cemetery. It was huge; there were thousands of black crosses that all looked the same. Helen did not know how she would find her son’s grave. A gardener approached her. Helen said that she was looking for her nephew’s grave. The gardener said he would show her the grave of her son. How to cite Summary of ‘the Gardener’, Papers

Review of Performance Management Process

Question: Prepare a written report that describes and provides a critique of the performance management process of an organization. Answer: Background of Organization McDonald is considered as the largest chain of fast food restaurant in the world. It provides service to around 68 million consumers in 119 nations with 35,000 outlets. The revenues of McDonald's are generated from royalties, rent and payment of fees by franchisees. Mission To be at favorite place of customers and provide effective way to drink and eat and bring a smile and happiness on the faces of customers To strive for continuous improvement To operate business ethically To deliver better customer experience Business Strategy The business strategy followed by McDonald is Play to Win to maintain their brand value. In addition, the company majorly focuses on people, products, place, price, promotion and improving customer experience and operations and opening new outlets (Blogs.unive.it, 2015). Objectives and purpose for performance management process The major aim is to coordinate the activities of employees in order to attain the organizational goal. It helps in identifying and measuring the performance of the individual employee and also improving the fewer efficient employees for strategic goal of McDonald, Canada. On the other hand, gaps in the performance can be known so that strategic steps can be taken. The process can be effective in providing learning and development skills to employees so that their effort can be best utilized for the growth and expansion of McDonald. Through this process, the production, operation, supply chain can be improved that can help in engaging large customer circle and better work environment (Ellis, Margalit Segev, 2012). For this reason, the performance management can be valuable for employee growth and recognizing best employee. Organization Approach Planning: The unit strategy has to be established, and the goal of the employee has to be aligned. Further, for assessing the employees' performance, performance appraisal plan has to be developed so that their effort can be used for the organizational purpose. In addition, performance expectation has to be set for each employee or groups in order to channel their skills for the betterment of McDonald. On the other hand, a performance standard has to be planned so that each performance can be assessing on that basis of standard. The standard has to be in such manner that it can be understood, measured, achievable and verifiable (Jackson, 2012). For this reason, it can help in achieving the objectives of organizations. The performance plan for the employee has to be flexible so that adjustment can be made as per the work requirements. Facilitation: The leader or manager of the McDonald has to encourage and motivate the employees to give their best so that they can register growth and better future. The Individual Development Plan can be effective in acknowledging the leadership competencies of employees so that they can gain success in their current field. The manager has to engage the employees in training program in order to improve their performance and enhancing efficiency skill (Ahuja, 2012). On the other hand, the managers can make employees recognize their skill so that common objectives can be fulfilled. In addition, the employee has to be trained and supported so that they can unite their individual goals with the goal of the company and register success. Assessment: The performance plan has to be assessed by generating feedback from the employees so that it can be known whether the employees were able to match up to the performance standard or not. Apart from that, McDonald can build assessment team so that group performance can be judged on the basis of productivity. This would help in segmenting the best performing group and low-performing group. On the other hand, the managers can conduct a meeting for sharing the responses of employees regarding the performance appraisal so that their feedback can be sought for the better development of performance management plan (Pichler, 2012). Apart from that, a rating system can be adopted to rate the employees on the basis of performance, and it can help in motivating the employee. Development/Improvement: In this process, the manager can be able to know the till how much level the employees can achieve the performance standard. If the employees are not able to attain average standard the management can either sack them or provide training to them so that they can develop their skill and work can be done in more productive manner (Krats Brown, 2012). On the other hand, the management can deliver motivation speech to employees of McDonald so that can identify their inner skill and put their effort in the organizational activities. Apart from that, the employee that has excelled in their work then reward or promotion has to be provided. This would help better future development of employees. Detailed Description and Critique of performance appraisal criteria In order to conduct the performance appraisal, the management of the McDonald considers production. The production details help in knowing how much the particular employee has contributed to producing number of units. On the other hand, the production helps in providing information about the efficiency of the employees and their effort put into production and providing the best service to employees (Ahuja, 2012). Apart from that, production in given time can be known so that low performer can be segmented from the best performer. On the other hand, efficiency is also acknowledged so that their effort can be also assessed in order to develop the performance appraisal. The efficiency can help in knowing the competency of workers and bringing quality service to the company. As a result, effectiveness can be evaluated towards the organizational goal. Apart from that, training is useful as the criteria of performance appraisal. Through training, the management can know which employee is taking longer or shorter time to gain learning (Ellis, Margalit Segev, 2012). As a result, the employee who takes long time is considered as inferior and superior to those that takes shot time to learn. The behavior of employees at job is considered as performance appraisal criteria. The employees are rated on the basis of ineffective and effective behavior in relation to resulting produce. In addition, the leaders are judged on the basis of leadership skill applied by them for guiding and directing the employees. Also, the approach of employees towards work is effective in ranking the employees and forming performance appraisal (Jackson, 2012). The involvement of the employees in the group activities is regarded as one of the criteria to assess their performance and role in the activities. Apart from that, performance appraisal and development form is distributed among the employees so that their feedback can be known. On the other hand, in order to conduct the periodic performance reviews, the management adopts graphical rating scale and 360-degree feedback. The graphical rating scale helps in knowing the trait of each employee and on that basis the employees are rated. (Refer to Appendix 2) On the other hand, 360-degree feedback is effective in having better understanding of strengths and weakness of leaders and managers and further it helps in forming development plan (Krats Brown, 2012). Additionally, the behavior and competencies can be measured, and skills of the people of McDonald can be addressed so that their skills can be aligned towards the goal of the company. Apart from that, the performance appraisal process that is adopted by McDonalds: Identify: The dimensions of performance are being identified for determining successful job performance. For this reason, job analysis is considered for identification of performance dimension at McDonalds. Measure: In this process, the performances are evaluated in order to recognize the requirements of staff. Thus, the performance is calculated, and employees are motivated to engage themselves in the work with more effort. Manage: The managers of McDonalds try to find the cause of the problem in performance so that the skills of the employees can be developed for the better productivity and company's performance (Pichler, 2012). Recommendations The goal of McDonalds has to be clearly communicated to the employees in order to gain higher benefit from them. The goal can be higher income, better service, and quality productivity in a particular period. In order to improve the employee performance, the managers of McDonalds has to share information about the company's work plan and also the contribution made by employees so that employees can focus more on the effective performance. The employees should not be forced to do the job. This would decrease the efficiency of the staff, and they may not feel satisfied with their work and performance. As a result, flexible work opportunity has to be provided to them so that they can carry their work in better and productive way. The values and ethics have to be actively promoted among the employees so that they can conduct their work for the organization betterment and future development. This would also help the employees to grow as a person and professionally. The manager of a leader has to enforce feeling of trust in employees so that they can share their feeling with seniors and seek guidance from them without any fear or hesitation. For this reason, it will help McDonalds to have quality work environment. The constant feedback has to be provided to the staff about their performance so that the staff can know their level of performance. On the other hand, the low performing staff can get motivated from the staffs that are performing exceptionally well. References Ahuja, I. (2012). Total quality management implementation for reducing percent process defects in a manufacturing organisation. International Journal Of Business Performance Management, 13(1), 1. doi:10.1504/ijbpm.2012.044861 Blogs.unive.it,. (2015). Performance management of McDonand's Corporation. . Retrieved 6 February 2015, from https://blogs.unive.it/sandbox/groups/economicsmanagement/wiki/af526/attachments/4f654/PW%202%20_%2023_Facebook%20Inc.pdf?sessionID=168fa9043b224f031ccbadd7d585d65fa36533a6 Ellis, S., Margalit, D., Segev, E. (2012). Effects of Organizational Learning Mechanisms on Organizational Performance and Shared Mental Models during Planned Change. Knowledge And Process Management, 19(2), 91-102. doi:10.1002/kpm.1384 Jackson, S. (2012). Five secrets to success in business strategy. Journal Of Business Strategy, 33(2). doi:10.1108/jbs.2012.28833baa.003 Krats, P., Brown, T. (2012). Unionised employee's reactions to the introduction of a goal-based performance appraisal system 1. Human Resource Management Journal, no-no. doi:10.1111/j.1748-8583.2012.00205.x Pichler, S. (2012). The social context of performance appraisal and appraisal reactions: A meta-analysis. Human Resource Management, 51(5), 709-732. doi:10.1002/hrm.21499 Appendix Appendix 1: Why performance appraisal is important? The performance appraisal helps in separating the performing employees from the non-performing employees. Therefore, it helps in deciding the training program for those non-performing ones so that can contribute more to organization and enhance their efficiency. Moreover, it helps in taking decision regarding increment in salaries, rewards, promotions, etc. Does the employee provide enough information about the work delivered? Yes, most of the employees provide details about work that helps in providing recognition to them. The employees provide the details such time taken in completing task, problem faced while doing job, etc. On the other hand, some employees forget to provide details as they are new to the industry and they are not completely aware about it. Thus, through regular supervisor and training, the requirement of work delivery is passed on to them. What appraisal method do you mostly concentrate on? The three methods are mostly focused that are Management by Objective, Graphical Rating Scale and 360 degree feedback. These methods are followed from past may years which regularly provide details about the employees performance and engagement. Moreover, the appraisal methods are effective in providing training and development program to the employees. What do you think about the appraisal system in McDonalds? The appraisal system is well-organized at McDonalds. It helps in reviewing performance and setting expectations and goals for each individual. Moreover, the employees are satisfied with the current performance appraisal process as it helps them to develop and grow in McDonald and improve performance. Appendix 2: McDonalds Cashier performance appraisal and development form EMPLOYEE NAMELOCATION NAME NUMBER APPRAISAL PERIODFROM://TO:// MDYMDY APPRAISAL REASON (CHECK ONE)3 MONTH6 MONTH9 MONTH1 YEAR RATER NAME TITLE PERFORMANCE FACTORS Attendance: clocks in on time and is ready to work Attendance: clocks in on time and is ready to work 12345 Almost neversometimesalmost always Comments Has documented reason for calling off work 12345 Almost neversometimesalmost always Comments Comes to work when scheduled to work 12345 Almost neversometimesalmost always Comments Customer service Greets customers with a friendly attitude and with a smile 12345 Almost neversometimesalmost always Comments Appearance Wears clean and appropriate uniform to work (shirt, pants, hat, hair pulled back) 12345 Almost neversometimesalmost always Comments Knowledge of operating cash register knows the basics of the register with out the seeking help from management or other employees 12345 Almost neversometimesalmost always Comments OVERALL RATING ___________________________________________________________________ OVERALL RATING SCALE _______ - _______ = BELOW STANDARD/EXPECTATION _______ - _______ = MEETS STANDARD/EXPECTATION _______ - _______ = EXCEEDS STANDARD/EXPECTATION _______ - _______ = EXCEPTIONAL RATER SIGNATUREDATE EMPLOYEES COMMENTS: EMPLOYEE SIGNATUREDATE

Western Culture free essay sample

This article is about the influence of Western culture. For the eye surgery, see Epicanthoplasty. [hide]This article has multiple issues. Please help improve it or discuss these issues on the talk page. This article needs additional citations for verification. (February 2010) This article has an unclear citation style. (November 2011) The examples and perspective in this article may not represent a worldwide view of the subject. (November 2011) The neutrality of this article is disputed. (November 2011) An example of Westernization: Meiji period, Japan, Prince Yorihito Higashifushimi in typical Western naval dress uniform with white gloves, epaulettes, medals and hat Similarity with US General John C. Batess uniform. Westernization or Westernisation (see spelling differences), also occidentalization or occidentalisation (from the Occident, meaning the Western world; see occident in the dictionary), is a process whereby societies come under or adopt Western culture in areas such as industry, technology, law, politics, economics, lifestyle, diet, language, alphabet, religion, philosophy, and values. We will write a custom essay sample on Western culture or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Westernization has been a pervasive and accelerating influence across the world in the last few centuries, with some thinkers assuming westernization to be the equivalent of modernization,[2] a way of thought that is often debated. The overall process of westernization is often two-sided in that Western influences and interests themselves are joined with parts of the affected society, at minimum, to change towards a more Westernized society, in the hope of attaining Western life or some aspects of it. To assume, however, Western societies are not affected or changed by this process and interaction with non-Western groups is misleading. Westernization can also be related to acculturation and enculturation. Acculturation is the process of cultural and psychological change that takes place as a result of contact between cultural groups and their individual members. [3] After contact, changes in cultural patterns are evident within one or both cultures. Specific to westernization and the non-Western culture, foreign societies tend to adopt changes in their own social systems relative to Western ideology, lifestyle, and physical appearance, along with numerous other aspects, and shifts in culture patterns can be seen to take root as a community becomes acculturated to Western customs and characteristics – in other words, westernized. The phenomenon of westernization does not follow any one specific pattern across societies as the degree of adaption and fusion with Western customs will occur at varying magnitudes within different communities. Specifically, the extent to which domination, destruction, resistance, survival, adaptation or modification affect a native culture may differ following inter-ethnic contact. In a situation where a native culture experiences destruction as a result of a more powerful outside force, a shock phase can often result from the encounter. Such a phase is especially characteristic during expansionist or colonialist eras. During a shock phase, repression using military force may lead to a cultural collapse or ethnocide, a culture’s physical extinction. According to Conrad Phillip Kottak, the Westerners will attempt to remake the native culture within their own image, ignoring the fact that the models of culture that they have created are inappropriate for settings outside of Western civilisation,[5] just one representation of the possibly harmful effects of Westernization. Contents 1 Definition of the West 1. 1 Territorial 1. 2 Different views 1. 2. 1 Samuel P. Huntington and Westernization 1. 2. 2 Edward Said and Westernization 1. 3 Personal Process of Westernization 2. 1 Colonisation (1492–1960s) 2. 1. 1 Europeanisation 2. 1. 2 Westernization in Asia 2. 2 Globalization (1960s–present) 3 Consequences 4 Examples of Westernizing Leaders 5 See also 6 References 7 Further reading Definition of the West Main article: Western world Territorial The West was originally defined as the Western world. Ancient Romans distinguished between Oriental (Eastern, or Asian) cultures that inhabited present-day Egypt and Occidental cultures that lived in the West. A thousand years later, the East-West Schism separated the Catholic Church and Eastern Orthodox Church from each other. The definition of Western changed as the West was influenced by and spread to other nations. Islamic and Byzantine scholars added to the Western canon when their stores of Greek and Roman literature jump-started the Renaissance. Although Russia converted to Christianity in 10th century, the West expanded to include it fully when Peter the Great deeply reformed the countrys government, the church and modernised the society thanks to the ideas brought from the Netherlands. Today, most modern uses of the term refer to the societies in the West and their close genealogical, linguistic, and philosophical descendants, typically included are those countries whose ethnic identity and dominant culture are derived from European culture. However, though sharing in similar historical background, it would be incorrect to regard the Western world as a monolithic bloc, as many cultural, linguistic, religious, political, and economical differences exist between Western countries and populations. Western civilisation is commonly said to include Northern America (U.S. A. and Canada), Europe (at least the European Union, EFTA countries, European microstates), Australia and New Zealand. The definition is often widened, and can include these countries, or a combination of these countries: European countries outside of the EU and EFTA Due to mainly their membership in the Council of Europe, the European Neighbourhood Policy, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe and other organisations, these countries are included in the definition of the West. They also share general European culture with countries forming of EU. Latin America. Some countries in Latin America are considered Western countries, largely because most of its peoples are racially descended from Europeans (Spanish and Portuguese settlers and later immigration from other European nations). And thus their society operates in a highly Westernized way. Indeed, most countries in Latin America use their official language, either in Spanish or Portuguese. According to the CIA -The World Factbook-, there has also been considerable immigration to Latin America from European nations other than Spain and Portugal, (For example, from Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, etc. See Immigration to Argentina, Immigration to Chile or Immigration to Brazil. ). [7] Turkey. Although geographically only 3% of Turkey lies in Europe, Turkey has a similar economic system, has a customs union with the European Union in addition to being an official candidate for membership, and is a member of typical Western organisations such as OECD, Council of Europe, and NATO. It is usually a member of European organisations for sports and cultural events such as UEFA and the Eurovision Song Contest. Israel. Although geographically Israel is located in the Middle East south of Lebanon, Israel had many Jewish immigrants who were from Western countries like the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, France and Germany. It is a member of the OECD. It is usually a member of European organisations for sports and cultural events such as UEFA and the Eurovision Song Contest. According to Sammy Smooha, a professor emeritus of sociology at Haifa University, Israel is described as a â€Å"hybrid,† a modern and developed â€Å"semi-Western† state. With the passage of time, he acknowledged, Israel will become †more and more Western. † But as a result of the ongoing Arab-Israeli dispute, full Westernization will be a slow process in Israel. [9] Lebanon. Although geographically Lebanon is located in the Middle East north of Israel, Lebanon has almost 40% Christians who are heavily influenced both culturally and socially by Western countries (particularly France with whom they share historical ties dating as early as the Crusaders state of County of Tripoli founded by Raymond IV of Toulouse that encompassed most of present day Lebanon. The French legacy within the whole Lebanese society is the widespread fluent knowledge of the French language). Western influence brought in by the countrys Christians spread to the rest of its population, making todays Lebanon a unique blend of East and West. Lebanons comparatively progressive society and the culture and features of metropolitan Beirut, known as Paris of the Middle East,[10] are a testament to its westernization. It is usually a member of European organisations for cultural events such as the Eurovision Song Contest. [11] South Africa. Due to the high influence of European culture in places like South Africa, it could be said that the country is Western or has achieved Westernization. Moreover, White South Africans of European origin make up about 9% of South Africa. Another 9% are of mixed race. Unlike Black South Africans whove maintained their own native languages, most mixed South Africans speak Afrikaans as a first language. Likewise, most Indian South Africans speak English natively today. Therefore, it can be argued that this collective 20% of native English and Afrikaans speakers (both European-derived) live in heavily Western influenced cultures. Similarly, whites and coloureds are over 10% of Namibia. They primarily speak Afrikaans and German as a first language. In addition to that, many Black South Africans and Namibians speak European languages, e. g. Afrikaans and English, fluently and are also considered speakers of those languages. [citation needed] Widening the definition may cause controversies. Different views Samuel P. Huntington and Westernization In contrast to territorial delineation, others, like the American political scientist Samuel P. Huntington (see The Clash of Civilizations), consider what is Western based on religious affiliation, such as deeming the majority-Orthodox Christian part of Europe and North America the West, and creating 6 other civilizations, including Latin America, Confucian, Japanese, Islamic, Hindu and Slavic-Orthodox, to organize the rest of the globe. [12] Edward Said and Westernization In Orientalism Edward Said views Westernization as it occurred in the process of colonization, an exercise of essentializing a â€Å"subject race† in order to more effectively dominate them. Said references Arthur Balfour, the British Prime Minister from 1902-1905, who regarded the rise of nationalism in Egypt in the late 19th century as counterproductive to a â€Å"benevolent† system of occupational rule. Balfour frames his argument in favor of continued rule over the Egyptian people by appealing to England’s great â€Å"understanding† of Egypt’s civilization and purporting that England’s cultural strengths complimented and made them natural superiors to Egypt’s racial deficiencies. Regarding this claim, Said says, â€Å"Knowledge to Balfour means surveying a civilization from its origins to its prime to its decline—and of course, it means being able to The object of such knowledge is inherently vulnerable to scrutiny; this object is a ‘fact’ which, if it develops, changes, or otherwise transforms itself [the civilization] nevertheless is fundamentally, even ontologically stable. To have such knowledge of such a thing is to dominate it. The act of claiming coherent knowledge of a society in effect objectifies and others it into marginalization, making people who are classified into that race as â€Å"almost everywhere nearly the same. † Said also argues that this relationship to the â€Å"inferior† races, in fact, works to also fortify and make coherent what is meant by â€Å"the West†; if â€Å"The Oriental is irrational, depraved (fallen), childlike, â€Å"different † then â€Å" the European is rational, virtuous, mature, normal. Thus, â€Å"the West† acts as a construction in the similar way as does â€Å"the Orient†Ã¢â‚¬â€it is a created notion to justify a particular set of power relations, in this case the colonization and rule of a foreign country. Personal A different view on the Western world is not defining it by its territory, but by its people group, as these tend to differ in an increasingly globalised world. This view highlights the non-Western population in countries with a Western majority, or vice versa. The Boers for instance can be regarded as Western inhabitants of South Africa. Process of Westernization King Amanullah Khan of Afghanistan attempted to Westernize his country in the 1920s, but tribal revolts caused his abdication Colonisation (1492–1960s) Main article: Colonialism Europeanisation From 1492 onward, Europeanisation and colonialism spread gradually over much of the world and controlled different regions during this five centuries long period, colonising or subjecting the majority of the globe. The two World Wars weakened the European powers to such extent that many colonies strove for independence, often inspired by nationalistic movements. A period of decolonisation started. At the end of the 1960s, most colonies were autonomous. Those new states often adopted some aspects of Western politics such as the adoption of a constitution, while frequently reacting against Western culture. [citation needed] Westernization in Asia General reactions to Westernization can include fundamentalism, protectionism or embrace to varying degrees. Countries such as Korea and China attempted to adopt a system of isolationism but have ultimately juxtaposed parts of Western culture into their own, often adding original and unique social influences, as exemplified by the introduction of over 1,300 locations of the traditionally Western fast-food chain McDonalds into China. Specific to Taiwan, the industry of bridal photography (see Photography in Taiwan) has been significantly influenced by the Western idea of love. As examined by author Bonnie Adrian, Taiwanese bridal photos of today provide a strike contrast to past accepted norms, contemporary couples often displaying great physical affection and, at times, placed in typically Western settings to augment the modernity, in comparison to the historically prominent relationship, often stoic and distant, exhibited between bride and groom. Though Western concepts may have initially played a role in creating this cultural shift in Taiwan, the market and desire for bridal photography has not continued without adjustments and social modifications to this Western notion. In Japan, the Netherlands continued to play a key role in transmitting Western know-how to the Japanese from the 17th century to the mid-19th century, as the Japanese had opened their doors only to Dutch merchants before US Navy Captain, Commodore Perry’s visit in 1852. After Commodore Perrys visit, Japan began to deliberately accept Western culture to the point of hiring Westerners to teach Western customs and traditions to the Japanese starting in the Meiji era. Many Japanese politicians have since also encouraged the Westernization of Japan using the term Datsu-A Ron, which means the argument for leaving Asia or Good-bye Asia. In Datsu-A Ron, Westernization was described as an unavoidable but fruitful change. After Japans surrender to the USA and its  allies ended World War II, the Westernization process of Japanese culture was further intensified and today, Japan is notably among the most Westernized countries in Asia. [citation needed] However, in contrast, despite many advances in industrial efficiency, Japan has managed to sustain a culture of strict social hierarchy and limited individualisation. [15] Furthermore, Irans attempt to westernize, which was dictated by the Shah, was partly responsible for the Iranian Revolution. Globalization ( 1960s–present) Westernization is often regarded as a part of the ongoing process of globalization. This theory proposes that Western thought has led to globalisation, and that globalisation propagates Western culture, leading to a cycle of Westernization. On top of largely Western government systems such as democracy and constitution, many Western technologies and customs like music, clothing and cars have been introduced across various parts of the world and copied and created in traditionally non-Western countries like Japan, China, India, etc. The main characteristics are economic and political (free trade) democratisation, combined with the spread of an individualised culture. Often it was regarded as opposite to the worldwide influence of Communism. After the break-up of the USSR in late 1991, many of its component states and allies nevertheless underwent Westernization, including privatization of hitherto state-controlled industry. With debates still going on, the question of whether globalization can be characterized as Westernization can be seen in various aspects. Globalization is happening in various aspects, ranging from economics, politics and even to food or culture. Westernization, to some schools, is seen as a form of globalization that leads the world to be similar with Western powers. Being globalized means taking positive aspects of the world, but globalization also brings about the debate about being Westernized. Democracy, fast foods, American pop-culture can all be examples that are considered as Westernization of the world. Consequences Due to the colonisation of the Americas and Oceania by Europeans, the cultural, ethnic and linguistic make-up of the Americas and Oceania has been changed. This is most visible in settler colonies such as the United States  of America, Argentina, Australia, Chile and New Zealand, where the traditional indigenous population has been predominantly replaced demographically by non-indigenous settlers. This demographic takeover in settler countries has often resulted in the linguistic, social, and cultural marginalisation of indigenous people. However, even in countries where large populations of indigenous people remain or the indigenous peoples have mixed (mestizo) considerably with European settlers, such as Bolivia, Guatemala, Mexico, Peru and Ecuador, marginalisation still exists. But continued immigration to eventual white majority regions like Costa Rica made these cultures have a castizo or a more Europeanized-mestizo background. [citation needed] Due to colonisation and European immigration, the prevalent native languages in the Americas, Australia, New Zealand, Northern Asia and part of South Africa and Central Asia, are now usually European languages or creoles based on them: English (United States and Canada without French-speaking Quebec) English Australia and New Zealand or English along with English-based creole languages (Jamaica and most of the West Indies, Guyana). French (Quebec, New Brunswick and parts of Ontario in Canada and Saint Pierre and Miquelon); French along with French-based creole languages (French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique and Saint-Barthelemy). Spanish (Hispanic America, although in Paraguay most people are bilingual with Guarani and there are more Guarani speakers than Spanish speakers). Portuguese (Brazil). Russian (Northern Asia and parts of Central Asia). Dutch along with creole languages (Suriname, Aruba and the Netherlands Antilles). Afrikaans along with English (parts of South Africa). Many indigenous languages are on the verge of becoming extinct. However, some settler countries have gone to lengths to preserve indigenous languages, for example, in New Zealand the Maori language is one of three official languages, the others being English and New Zealand sign language. Examples of Westernizing Leaders Emperor Meiji Peter The Great Mustafa Kemal Ataturk Guangxu Emperor Sun Yat-sen Deng Xiaoping Mikhail Gorbachev Reza Shah Pahlavi Mohammad Reza Pahlavi Emperor Gojong See also Acculturation Africanisation is the modification of names to better reflect an African identity. Americanisation is the influence the United States of America has on other cultures. Anglicisation is the process of making something English. Anti-Americanism represents a hostility towards the government, culture, or people of the U. S. A. Anti-globalisation Arabisation transforms an area into one that speaks Arabic and is part of the Arab culture. Colonial mentality Colonialism Colonisation Colourism Creolisation Cultural assimilation Cultural cringe (Cultural Alienation) Cultural diversity Cultural genocide Cultural identity Cultural imperialism Culture of Europe Romanisation, the spread of Roman culture and language. Culture of the United States Datsu-A Ron Democratic peace theory is a theory which holds that democracies (almost) never go to war with one another. Democratisation de-Russification is a process in the post-Soviet countries to reverse the process of Russification. Diseases of affluence are diseases thought to be a result of increasing wealth. Enculturation Ethnocide Europeanisation can either mean the process of transforming a society into a more European society or the process of growth towards a European identity in Europe. Francisation is the process of giving a French character to something or someone. Germanisation is defined as either the spread of the German language and culture, or the adaptation of a word to the German language. Gharbzadegi Globalisation/Mundialisation Hellenisation, the spread of Greek culture and language. Intercultural competence Islamisation the process of a societys conversion to Islam. Japanisation is the process in which Japanese culture dominates, assimilates, or influences other cultures. Kicking Away the Ladder Korenisation or Korenizatsiya was the early Soviet ethnicity policy. Language shift Magyarisation or Magyarization is spreading the Hungarian language and culture in general. McDonaldization Melting pot Modernization Multiculturalism Non-Westernized concepts of male sexuality as opposed to Westernized concept of sexual orientations North-South divide is the socio-economic division which exists between the wealthy developed North and the poorer developing South Paper Bag Party Passing (racial identity) Polonisation is the assumption or assimilation of the Polish language or another Polish attribute. Race Racialism (Racial categorization) Racism Latinisation is a system for representing a word or language with the Latin alphabet, or the traditions of the Latin Rite into Eastern Catholic Church Liturgies and practices. Romanianization is the process of giving Romanian attributes to something non-Romanian. Russification is an adoption of the Russian language or some other Russian attribute by non-Russian communities. Sinicisation is the process in which Chinese culture dominates or influences other cultures. Slovakisation is the policies of Czechoslovakia then Slovakia against the ethnic Hungarians there. Social interpretations of race Syncretism Turkification is a cultural change in which something or someone who is not a Turk becomes one, voluntarily or by force. Ukrainisation was the policy conducted by the Bolshevik party and the Government of the Ukrainian SSR during the 1920s and 1930s to increase the presence of Ukraine.

Ma Huang essays

Ma Huang essays Ma Huang (Ephedra) as a Dietary Supplement: "Lose weight fast", "thermogenic fat burner", "rapid weight loss", these are just a few of the guarantees that manufacturer's are using to promote the now widely used and highly controversial dietary supplements containing ma haung (ephedra). Sounds great; a simple way to stimulate weight loss and increase energy, can this really work or are these companies suggesting the impossible? Ma Huang, or ephedra sinica, is an ancient Chinese herb indigenous to temperate climates, in northwestern India, Pakistan, Mongolia and China, usually on sandy seashores. The plant dates back to 5,000 years ago as a medicinal agent for asthma and hay fever, quite possibly making it the world's oldest medicine (Gurley, Gardner, White et al., 1998). In 1923, scientists discovered that the plant has two active ingredients: ephedrine (EPH), and pseudoephedrine (PSE); the central nervous system stimulants. Ephedrine is a sympathomimetic alkaloid agonists that causes cardiac stimulation and vasoconstriction, which may produce short term increases in blood pressure and heart rate, insomnia, vertigo, madras's, and nervousness. Pseudoephedrine, also an agonist, enhances bronchodialation, relieving symptoms of nasal congestion (Tyler, Brady, So what exactly does ephedra do to the body? The active natural ingredient, ephedrine acts as a sympathetic nerve stimulant similar to adrenaline, but not as potent as amphetamine. It has an energizing effect hence its usefulness in dieting. Ephedrine opens bronchial passag...

Benefits of Single Gender Education Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Benefits of Single Gender Education - Essay Example Girls perform better in single sex schools than boys. Therefore, people choose single gender school for bright future of females. Female students also avoid sexual harassment in single gender schools. Research shows that boys and girls have different ways of learning because of difference of mind. Single gender schools are the solution to this problem. Few researchers provided conflicting evidence on importance of single gender schools. Financial aspects, race and moral values like issues are easy to handle in single gender schools and to overcome class difference. Therefore the research of decades has proved that single gender schools are beneficial than co-education institutes. Research proved definite decline in distraction in single gender schools. According to Hubbard & Datnow (2005), in teenage students, lose focus on their work due to attraction in opposite sex (pp. 121). This declines their progress in educational activities. Boys and girls spend more time in attracting each other and give more importance to their getup and outlook. Mostly girls are found lost in the classrooms as they reach their puberty. Boys are more distracted in the presence of girls as it is part of their nature and personality. Therefore, single gender schools are vital for good educational output from the boys. ... Girls and boys can come with normal dressing and makeup in single gender schools due to non-availability of opposite sex (Hubbard & Datnow 122). This saves time and keeps the mind committed in their work. Research has proved better performance of girls in single sex schools. Parents are now attracted towards single gender schools for females for making them better educated for future challenges. Girls with mathematical and scientific expertise can produce even better results in schools (Datnow, Hubbard & Conchas 186) Girls are highly affected by the sexual harassment from the opposite gender (Hubbard & Datnow 122). Their mind always works to take safety measures to avoid sexual harassment. Boys show more confidence towards this activity and tend to attract girls and tend to sexually harass them in coeducation schools. Single gender schools have the advantage of protecting girls from sexual assaults and harassment. Girls and boys have different mind structure and hobbies that become p ermanent part of the personalities. Gender difference has connection with the initial lifestyle and habits and priorities. This creates a lot of difference in approach of both sexes towards education. Hence, it is always difficult to observe same understanding of a subject in both genders. One will understand the subject matter easily and the other gender may feel it difficult. Uniformity of understanding of scientific and mathematical subjects be best achieved in single sax schools and colleges. According to Datnow, Hubbard & Conchas (2001), â€Å"some argued that the single gender educational settings promote stereotypical attitude towards the opposite sex†. (pp. 186). The conflicting evidence of single gender