The Relationship between Generation Y Work Value with Job Satisfaction Research Paper

The Relationship between Generation Y Work Value with Job Satisfaction and Work Stress at Hong Kong - Research Paper Example The main purpose of conducting this research project is to study the relationship between generation y‘s work value with job satisfaction and work stress at Hong Kong. There are some work values in this report have covered to study with and examine those work value will influence job satisfaction level and work stress level of generation Y or not. Some variables moderators like age, marital status and number of kids might moderate the relationship between the factors. The proposed mechanism based on previous empirical researchers and six hypotheses had been set up. Those hypotheses will be tested by Pearson Correlation in a convenient sample of generation Y who is taking a full-time job in Hong Kong at the moment. (N = 72, Male = 50, Female = 22). The result showed that good salary, job interest, prestige and variety diversion of work had the strongest relationship with the work value of generation Y. The job satisfaction can rise significantly and work stress can reduce when t he work value match with generation Y’s expectation. Furthermore, the study finds out there is the negative relationship between work stress and job performance. Heavier work stress will bring a negative effect to generation Y and bring down their job performance. From the test conducted, found that age is a greatest moderating effect on the relationship job satisfaction level and work stress level of generation Y. Also, marital status and number of kids give different moderating effect to generation Y on the job value, job satisfaction, and work stress. For further study of a similar topic on generation Y in Hong Kong, it is suggested that personality, work overtime, a part-time study can be the focus on and the result or findings should be taken into account of. Generation Y is a dynamic workforce that holds specific expectations with regards to work factors, to understand generation Y’swork value is important to the employer when they make recruitment to the new com er to their company. Around 14% of total workforce in Hong Kong are generation Y and increasing rapidly. To determine what are the main value or factors to encourage them to work hard, which reason, why they need to work, is important for management level to setup up policy in their company.

English Language Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

English Language - Essay Example When we talk about present day society, we are actually focussing the significance of the domains of English language in a cultural context, where global popular culture in the name of 'globalisation' is challenging the essential mythologies of English language (Mair, 2003, p. 19). The way English language is misused in the cultural context does not necessarily refer to culture-specific aspects, although it is obvious that many of the concepts in this category are alien to many Third World cultures and the corresponding texts are imported from the First World (Greenbaum, 1996, p. 188). English as a world language serves all the world's citizens irrespective of caste, culture or creed and its postulated universality makes it equally relevant everywhere, as though it can function independently of contemporary power balances, both global and local (Mair, 2003, p. 20). Although globalisation in the international spread of English language may be regrettable and undesirable but we cannot ignore that global English today has become an agent of reform and fairness. Despite a 'globalised language', the pressures of a rights-oriented culture may one day enable English to become the vehicle for articulation while maintaining certain worldwide standards of protection. English language from economic perspective has been able to bridge the gap between various cultures and economies; therefore it has served as an exchange-facilitating institution, where 'exchange' is not the only economic function English language has performed (Reksulak et al, 2004). English language development has been shaped by revealing the constellation of economic and other forces. However, the impact technology upholds in the innovation, trade, and economic growth on the English-speaking world is evident in the rising share of nouns in new words added during the past two or three centuries which make up 58% of the words originating in the 19th century and more than 70% of the words originating in the 20th (Reksulak et al, 2004). There is no doubt that English language blames grand scale globalisation factor and put all the enthusiasm and vitriol on its shoulders, but it is this language that is responsible for the growth in regional interactions from trade to travel. These interactions have long engaged in promoting the spread of English language among other regional languages (Fishman, 2000, p. 13). The significance of English language lies in the notion that it is present in societies where local languages are disappearing, in cultures where local languages are not considered, English is understood and spoken (Moritoshi, Nov 2001). References Bryson Bill, (1990) The mother tongue: English and how it got that way. New York: HarperCollins. Fishman A. Joshua, (Spring 2000) "English: The Killer Language OR A PASSING PHASE" In: Whole Earth. Greenbaum Sidney, (1996) Comparing English Worldwide: The International Corpus of English: Clarendon Press: Oxford. Mair Christian, (2003) The Politics of English as a World Language: New Horizons in Postcolonial Cultural Studies: Rodopi: Amsterdam. Moritoshi Paul, Nov 2001,Perspectives on the Role of English as an International Language, Accessed from Reksulak Michael, William F. Shughart Ii & Tollison D. Robert, (2004) "Economics and English: Language Growth in Economic Perspective" In: Southern Economic

Impact of E-commerce on the Hospitality Industry

Impact of E-commerce on the Hospitality Industry Face of consumerism through e-commerce has radically changed in the last few years. Buying or selling through Internet and online shops depending on websites, has become an ordinary part of consumer life today. Higher expectations, less tolerance, more demanding and choosy customers are becoming more common. Economic, social and technological factors have created a highly competitive business environment in which customers are becoming more powerful, Turban and King (2003, p.25). The highly professional search machines make this possible for them. E-Commerce is becoming a steadily bigger part of life without our realising it. To make e-commerce work well, constant development and improvement of adjoining functions is necessary. E-commerce solutions are varied, and seller, buyer compatibility with it is necessary to work with a chosen one. Also it should be affordable for the provider. Online selling is the main growth area for the Internet. Elegant sites, easy requirements, less cumb ersome process, more information sharing, animation, attractive information presented in the most fascinating ways are bases of a sound e-commerce. E-commerce website should offer a stimulating experience with reliable information that could motivate the customer. Easy Channelling and navigating the customers to full portfolio of all necessary and essentially correct information is very important. Websites should be searchable, price should be competitive and eShop information should be easily available. E-Commerce has brought revolutionary changes in tourism and hospitality industry. Tourism as one of the biggest industries is a natural partner of Internet. It is a major component of most economies and community-based tourism is steadily increasing popularity. Tourism also has potential to induce local development and increase the income. It is essential to keep in mind the local environmental sensibilities. Applying the concept of e-commerce for tourism and hospitality has become the most natural outcome in recent years. Advantages are many. It facilitates local community access to tourism market and minimises the financial information leakage. It links local communities and hospitality industry directly with the tourists. It could help building up local finance along with the national foreign exchange. It increases small enterprises by directly marketing the local products and industries anywhere in the world. Local communities get a direct share in the income while traditional cultures, social structures of the hosts get appreciated and extraordinary skills make a come back. Tourism and hospitality mainly depend on the natural scenes and wildlife, for which locals or governments need not spend much other than maintaining them, along with effective hospitality facilities. Tourism and hospitality industry are interlinked. The hospitality industry and leisure industries are widely regarded as being extremely competitive and fast moving. Given this situation, it is hardly surprising that there are so many examples of established organizations acting entrepreneurially, according to Morison et al (2001, p. 68). Hospitality is a booming industry all over the world today and through Internet, selling their hotels, facilities offered, picturesque backgrounds, food, comforts, cultural attractions, social functions, religious peculiarities are showcased without much expense or difficulty. Tourists have all information through search machines with the current data and rates. They could directly talk, write, book and pay for their stay much in advance, with all information about reaching, being welcomed, how and where, meeting points, weather, forecasts, dangers, attractions and day-today itineraries intact with them months in advance. Availability of souvenirs, food requirements, comforts, access to religious places, historical sites, internal travelling, places of attraction, are all managed by people at hospitality points. Trade opportunities, reservations, tickets, transport, instantaneous information about any place nearby are provided through hotels. Travellers pay up front for travel services and in exchange for cash they receive all the facilities. Tourists and business travellers come from all over the world on visits and holidays. Once they have arrived they have to be able to pay for the goods and services which they require This is done by creating a market in foreign currencies operated by the worldsà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ banks who are prepared to buy and sell currencies on behalf of their customers, Messenger and Shaw, (1993, p.232). Internet can offer buyer-seller information, eliminate expenses, improve business, and can give clear location details, with other much needed competitive and quality information. Through Hospitality industry, it develops economies, improves trade competitiveness, expands scope and arena, and facilitates people to have direct access to the marketing destinations. The marketing process, as indicated earlier, begins with customers. Specifically, process starts with a particular group of customers, often called the target market, Hsu and Powers (2002, p. 4). It monitors, evaluates, creates faster transactions, empowers the participating communities, makes information interchangeable through organised and flexible web services. It builds up visions, motivates people to venture into far off destinations, popularises hotels, inns, and serviced apartments. It romanticizes castles and palaces changed into hotels, privately owned villas, sells properties or lets them out for the season, familiarizes the tourists with other alternatives like accommodative farms for real and actual local life. Thinking clearly, using and analysing the best information available, synthesizing and evaluating it, explicating and articulating are what the real world is all about, says Lewis, 1999, p. xxviii). Does that mean that there are no disadvantages at all in applying E-Commerce into Hospitality Industry? Yes, there are many. It gives unnecessary and complete personal information of the tourist, which might not be appreciated in an underdeveloped part of the world. A gay man going into a rural area with his partner could create unfortunate situations in that society where gays and lesbians could be a rarity. It gives information like home addresses, telephone numbers to all people, who might venture into misusing them in future in some way or other. It could give easy access to all information to terrorists. It could spread terrorism and violence by providing information about the possible targets and their travelling. Information gone into Internet becomes public property. Confidentiality is never maintained in such cases and this could result in potential danger for tourists. It can create suitable atmosphere for killing, vengeance, robbery, stealing, waylaying, kidnapping and oth er criminal activities. It is foolish to expect that the information given would be kept confidential. With a vast number of people working on the internet, having access to the same data, and data being transferred all the time, tourists become sitting ducks to violence. Hospitality industry itself could be a target like in Bali. Hospitality industry has to be thoroughly aware of its own labour market and its problems. It should not happen that there would be an eruption of unhappiness when tourists arrive, because the data could be used against the industry itself. Labour markets run on information, but they are invariably less than perfect mechanisms. What both buyers and sellers are left with is their perceptions and assumptions of supply and demand, Riley, (1991, p.7). More information leads to more influx of tourists that might result in environmental imbalance and deprivation of local livelihood, creating a long-term crisis for locals. Over usage of facilities and nature, historical and heritage spots could result in their perpetual degradation. The eco-sensitivity of the region is of paramount importance. It can also result in a false and temporary market for goods, which might plummet down as the tourism season vanishes. Over popularising the area could result in local difficulties, if it is unprepared for welcoming hoards of tourists. If the culture is a hostile one, it could neither be comfortable for the hosts nor the guests. Glorification of facts could result in disillusionment of tourists. Their content bears little relevance to either the realities of work experience in the industry or actual labour management practices, Wood (1992, p. 2).

anger in communication Essay -- essays research papers

Anger In Communication Communicating is the means of transmitting or the exchange of information. These types of exchanges usually occur in many different forms or means. Humans communicate both verbally and nonverbally. The term also refers to sharing or to make common and is defined as a process of understanding. (Pearson & Nelson, 2000 p.18). This process is an activity, an exchange, or a set of behaviors.(Pearson & Nelson, 2000 p.170). These processes or exchanges can lead to anger, which may in some cases, produce results of serious consequences. Anger can be defined as a great feeling of displeasure, wrath, fury, or indignation. Misunderstanding during the exchange of information will create conflicts. These conflicts must be resolved to enable communication in a mundane atmosphere. Disagreements and misunderstandings in communication may result in substantive conflict. These substantive conflict or intrinsic conflicts as defined in human communication, are disagreement over ideas, meanings, issues and other matters, will all lead to communicative anger. (Pearson & Nelson, 2000 p.145). Anger in our communicating with others can be confrontational. These occurrences may result in physical abuses or mental abuses. The venom of anger rages throughout our society today, regardless of culture or elegance or community standings. Today I will examine the interpersonal communication within my cohabiting relationship. I will discuss the confrontations, the displayed behaviors, the physical attacks, and the reprisals. For interpersonal relationship to be successful, there must be mutually positive communication present at all time. My relationship is far the opposite and is continuously plagued with confrontations. The underlying reason stems from the very aggressive behavior of my partner. There seems to be no behavioral flexibility in the ability to adapt to new situations and to relate in new ways when necessary. (Pearson, 2000). These adaptations are an integral part of communication in any interpersonal relationships. In my relationship there seems to be a confrontational attitude each time that we discuss any state of affair that may exist in our daily living. A recent confrontation took place, when she asked to â€Å"borrow† a sum of money, which I promptly loaned her until such time as she had requested. The time came when the loan should be re... ...ative behaviors that may have exploded in anger could be from our failure to divulge to our partners information that we may consider to be negative. Defensiveness and being self-centered are causes that lead to destructive relationships. Because of the anger and failure of communication in our relationship I eventually decided to call it quits. But after further discussion I suggested to her if she would seek counseling for her aggressive behaviors, I would be willing to try, and continue if there is improvement. She is now in counseling for the second time thru my company’s counseling program. She seemed to calm down, and her communication has dramatically improved. We all want to have successful interpersonal relationships. We want to be able to trust others and to self-disclose to them. We must be able to handle conflicts, and to use conflict resolution techniques that are mutually satisfying for all. Controlling our anger will eventually lead us to communicate more effectively. We must ultimately learn that communication is dependent on the interaction between two or more persons, and one person cannot guarantee its success (Pearson & Nelson, 2000 p.178).

Abraham Lincoln – Short Essay

In 1828, Andrew Jackson was elected for president because he was a common, well-known man who was involved in the world and has acted profoundly throughout the years. In 1829 Andre Jackson became the seventh president of the United States until his term ended in 1837. During his presidency, President Andrew Jackson had several accomplishments. To begin with, Jackson was the first to introduce the Spoils System to the national government. This gave him a chance to fire everyone in congress and just hire anybody that supported him to give the presidents more power and favor. Many disagreed with this system but he did it anyway. Jackson vetoed more bills in his presidency than all the presidents put together. He was the first to use pocket veto and used the power extensively. While in office Jackson defied the Supreme Court leaving everyone confused. In the Worcester Vs. Georgia in 1832 the supreme court ruled for Georgia. President Andrew Jackson defied the decision that the court made and ordered a removal. He was against the court and he vetoed their decision in a blink of an eye. Jackson was a man with various opinion and he also took a stand in what he believed in. The Second bank of the United States was full of fraud and corruption and President Jackson wanted it to end as soon as possible because of that. It did indeed end and Jackson was considered completely responsible for that. He vetoed several bills to get it done and did not rest until the bank went bankrupt and ended. President Andrew Jackson was a great President, a great husband, son and father but most importantly, he was a good all around person who accomplished so much in his life.

Low Fat Diet and Cancer Link

Cancer is a very concerning and alarming concept in the present society mainly because of its negative implication on the lives and health welfare of the people afflicted with the ailment. As such, the health society and other concerned organization channel much interest, efforts and resources to study the range and biological nature of cancer together with its likely causes, contributory factors and the long-awaited treatment for the problem. Among the targeted issue is the low fat diets and their link to certain cancers particularly the breast cancer. In the general health field concern, it is dominantly established that diet has a significant effect to the health of an individual namely the likeliness of breast cancer to women. This concept is already strongly accepted with the support of many scientific studies and researches. However, on a particular view, how is low-fat diets actually related to breast cancer problem and whether this is on a positive or negative perspective. Most of the studies in this context relate the diet nature to the reduction of the chances of each women of having breast cancer. A particular study conducted by the Breast Cancer Research Foundation establishes that low-fat diet significantly reduces breast cancer chances for women as according to their study, fat content of the women is directly related to the amount of estrogen she has to be converted to estradiol. This estradiol in particular is the biologically active form of estrogen that can promote the growth of breast cancer cells (Paskett, 2004). On another perspective, other studies have also established that low-fat diets can also significantly reduce breast cancer relapse. A particular experimentation conducted by the Women’s Intervention Nutrition Study (WINS) has found that women who reduce their consumption of dietary fats have affected their breast cancer condition developing them to become estrogen receptor negative (ER-negative) (National Cancer Institute, 2005). These studies and other have indeed linked low fat diet to be a significant preventive mean against breast cancer. On the other hand, other studies and scientific journals claim a different look on the context, as their researches have found no significant link between low-fat diet and cancer. On the perspective of low fat diet as a preventive mean, the results of the Women’s Health Initiative Dietary Modification Trial have established that there are no significant benefits to be gained in a low-fat diet. Their subject assigned to this diet strategy did not gain natural defense or protection against known cancers such as breast, colorectal, and even cardiovascular diseases (Harvard School of Public Health; 2007). Another report derive from the findings of the American Medical Association states that the reduced risk with low-fat diet and the occurrence of breast cancer is not statistically significant to have a preventive effect or solution offering to the problem (Bhattacharya, 2006). However, it must be noted that the claims derive from this studies, though contradicting the benefits of low-fat diets, are not sufficient reasons to stack up on dietary fats and oils. It is still established and widely accepted that low-fat diets have a significant effects to the cancer problem and health aspect though still not specified by scientific supports and research findings. It is still important to follow help advices and intuition in pursuing low-fat diets that is high on rich-carbohydrates, minerals, vitamins which are equally beneficial to the overall health and the natural protection against certain diseases and health problems. Bibliography Bhattacharya, Shaoni (2006). Low-fat diet may not reduce cancer and heart risks. NewScientist.com News Service. Reed Business Information Ltd. http://www.newscientist.com/article/dn8697.html. October 11, 2007. Harvard School of Public Health (2007). Low-Fat Diet Not a Cure-All. http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/low_fat.html. October 11, 2007. National Cancer Institute (2005). Low-Fat Diet May Reduce Risk of Breast Cancer Relapse. U.S. National Institutes of Health. http://www.cancer.gov/clinicaltrials/results/low-fat-diet0505. October 11, 2007. Paskett, Electra D. Ph.D. (2004). Low Fat Vs. Low Carb Diet Studied in Breast Cancer. Ohio State University Medical Center. http://medicalcenter.osu.edu/mediaroom/press/article.cfm?ID=1746&i=64. October 11, 2007. Â  

Greece working Conditions Essay Example

Greece working Conditions Essay Example Greece working Conditions Essay Greece working Conditions Essay Introduction Business moralss examine the ethical. moral and principle jobs that occur in a concern environment. and its application applies to all facets of a concern. which include scheme execution. policy preparation. organisational civilization and legal proceedings. merely to advert a few. Business determinations are best explained by the usage of ethical models. which include ; the useful regulation. societal justness. deontology and moralss of virtuousnesss. The undertaking in the presentation is to research working conditions in Greece and so figure out which ethical model is being used by the leaders of that state in that issue. A careful analysis of the affair indicates that the leaders employ the useful model. which states that given two or more picks to take from. a individual must take the 1 that yields maximal benefits to the largest figure of people ( Windelband et. Al. 1958 ) . In other words. if a given pick is traveling to profit a little figure of people. it is of great importance. : John Stuart Mill modified the jurisprudence of utilitarianism and came up with a new useful regulation which stated that. one determines what is right by contrasting the result of all related agents of alternate policy for a peculiar status ( Quinton. 1973 ) . Issue: Greece Working Conditionss To understand the on the job conditions. informations from the Institute of Employment is used. The information was provided by the Social Insurance Foundation and Labor Inspectors in Greece. This institute carried out a research in the twelvemonth 2003. The aim of the research was to look into the wellness and safety statute laws in Greece. Questionnaires handed out to 324 people of assorted fortes. 35. 8 per centum specified that there were no wellness and safety commissariats in the house and 48. 7 % stated that. to their cognition. there was no doctor assigned to the house. A little per centum acknowledges the being of a wellness and safety commission in their house was merely 32. 4 % . In the building sector. 53. 5 % had a wellness and safety proviso papers while 58. 9 % in the fabrication sector had the same. 66. 1 % of the respondents in the populace sector said they lacked such a papers ( Aizenman. 2012 ) . Harmonizing to ( Bentham 1948 ) . it is right to exert what is good for the largest population of people. The survey reveals that the greatest figure of people in the work environment had the wellness and safety papers. Companies in Greece seem to value policies that yield the greatest benefit to the greatest figure of people. However. James Rachel. critic of the useful regulation. would hold argued otherwise. In his unfavorable judgment. he points out that. everyone is equal and that everybody’s felicity is of import ( Rachel. 1986 ) . The group of people who lack the papers in this instance can claim that concerns in Greece did go against the concern moralss. This so violates useful moral model. ’One issue in peculiar is already in danger of being capable to all sorts of populist rhetoric instead than nonsubjective appraisal: free motion of people in general and of workers in peculiar. in the European Union . says President Boroso while turn toing the European crisis. which pioneered legion reforms in Greece labour Torahs. The reforms led to limited protection of workers in the labour market. This aspect profaned concern moralss and indispensable societal rights. Law figure 3863/2010 introduced cardinal alterations in the labour market. The major countries changed included: The period given as a notice to the expiration of white-collar workers significantly shortened. The aureate handshaking for white-collar workers reduced by a half due to the reforms made. Operational costs must be kept between 5 % and 10 % . The minimal pay rates for workers under the age of 25 old ages reduced to 84 % of the set lower limit pay. For minor workers. the minimal pay rate set at 70 % of the set lower limit pay ( Lynn. 2011 ) . Harmonizing to ( Bentham. 1948 ) these alterations can non give maximal benefits to the society because they merely cater for a few persons. In fact. are in contrast with the labour curate. Algimanta Pabedinskiene. vocalizations. and I quote. Tackling NEET jobs will necessitate a assortment of steps easing the passage of these immature people into the universe of employment. or their return to the instruction system. In using these steps. a particular focal point should be placed on vulnerable groups . The jurisprudence set by the authorities aimed at protecting the community from mass unemployment by doing the labour Torahs weak. but by making so. single involvements were non considered. Harmonizing to ( Allison. 1990 ) a rational person wants to do more money from their employment. and the same person does non desire to work in conditions. which make him/her feel underpaid. This is to state that the authorities is making more harm than good by presenting weak labour Torahs. However. the authorities encourages minor working. which is a manner of striping bush leagues their rights. This is non in line with the utilitarianism because it violates the moralss ( Thilly. 1957 ) . Apart from the labour market reforms. the authorities instituted in 2010. service cuts in pension and other of import reforms in the societal security ordinances ( Pryce 2012 ) . The cardinal points to observe are as follows: Zero addition in the current pension over the following 3 old ages For the uninsured individuals over the age of 65. their basic pension standards underwent reforms. The sum of the pension is set at ˆ360. The national budget will finance the pension from the twelvemonth 2018. With regard to minimal rewards. the decrease of wages in now to the full permitted for all workers who are having the minimal pay rate in the state. This is now possible after an understanding in the National General Collective Agreement ( NGCA ) . Signing of the understanding on 15 July 2010 was by the societal spouses. This understanding proof was to be effected after three old ages ( Feldstein. 2011 ) . Salary cut for employees between 25 old ages was set between 22 % and 32 % . The employer can enforce this cut without the consent of the employee. These reforms further demo how the authorities violates useful rule. A salary cut without the consent of employees is unethical. and violates useful regulation. Harmonizing to ( Goodin. 1995 ) . utilitarianism as a public doctrine has been broken. Goodin explains utilitarianism as a rule which should steer political leaders while doing determinations that affect the society at big. He points out that leaders must take into history the impacts of the policies they pass on the full society. other than concentrating on a little group of people. In add-on. ( Copleston. 1975 ) states that people’s determinations and rights must be respected whenever the authorities passes policies that has direct impacts on citizen’s public assistance. He farther states that failure to exert this. the authorities will be conflicting citizen’s rights. which is unethical. Decision The authorities and companies in Greece tend to go through Torahs and policies in line with the useful model. but there are many cases where the leaders go contrary to the rules of the model. Using quotation marks and unfavorable judgments of the jurisprudence and informations collected. it is apparent that there exists violation of the useful regulation. The Government of Greece ought to utilize this analysis to rewrite its policies. It is ironical that the authorities wants zero unemployment while it continues to go through Torahs and ordinances that do non give greatest benefit to the greatest figure of people. The felicity of citizens and their rights must be respected if the authorities aims at cut downing unemployment. Mentions Aizenman. J. ( 2012 ) . Developing countries’ fiscal exposure to the euro crisis an event survey of equity and bond markets. Cambridge. Mass. : National Bureau of Economic Research. Allison. L. ( 1990 ) . The Utilitarian response: the modern-day viability of useful political doctrine. London: Sage Publications. Copleston. F. C. ( 1975 ) . A history of doctrine. Westminster. Md. : Newman Bookshop. Feldstein. M. S. ( 2011 ) . The euro and European economic conditions. Cambridge. Mass. : National Bureau of Economic Research. George. S. K. ( 2005 ) . The moral doctrine of John Steinbeck. Lanham. Md. : Scarecrow Press. Copy A ; PasteParenthetical Goodin. R. E. ( 1995 ) . Utilitarianism as a public doctrine. Cambridge University Press. Havard. W. C. ( 1959 ) . Henry Sidgwick A ; subsequently useful political doctrine. Gainesville: University of Florida Press. Copy A ; Paste Lynn. M. ( 2011 ) . Flop: Greece. the Euro. and the autonomous debt crisis. Hoboken. N. J. : Bloomberg Press. Copy A ; PasteParenthetical Nardo. D. ( 2006 ) . Ancient Greece. Detroit: Aglow Books. Pryce. V. ( 2012 ) . Greekonomics: the Euro crisis and why politicians don’t acquire it. London: Biteback. Copy A ; Pastearenthetical Quinton. A. ( 1973 ) . Utilitarian moralss. New York: St. Martin’s Press. Thilly. F. ( 1957 ) . A history of doctrine ( 3d ed. ) . New York: Holt. Windelband. W. . A ; Tufts. J. H. ( 1958 ) . A history of doctrine. New York: Harper A ; Brothers.

Business Plan

Business Plan Corporate Objective Visite Brazil Company has the objective to be a leading provider of best-of-breed adventure and tour services to world tourist market. The company believes in offering the best quality services unmatched by other tour agencies in the industry.Advertising We will write a custom proposal sample on Business Plan Visite Brazil Company specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Divisional Objectives The company embodies a culture of inclusivity that promotes the unity of purpose and teamwork. The core facet of the company is to offer the best environment for staff, customers and suppliers. Through this critical factor, all units endeavor to provide the best service within the provisions of harmonious coexistence. Marketing Objectives The company’s emphasis will be underpinned by the need to provide completely specialized services based on the market knowledge of the vacation destination and the services that shall meet th e demands of the customers. Visite Brazil company shall rely on the market research undertaken to underscore its market obligations. Market Forecasts The company projects that its sales shall increase substantially following the detailed market analysis based on the segment needs. According to Euro Monitor International (2009), the historical estimates indicate that tour needs have been neglected by lack of provision of customer-led services. Sales estimates anticipate gaining a larger market share compared to its competitors. Using historical figures, the company has projected sales of over $500, 000 for the coming activities in Brazil and its environs. Additionally, Visite Brazil believes that the number of unit services shall increase to about 5,000 single-person unit services and 1000 corporate-based unit services. Profitability of the company would increase to register profits of 65% as a percentage of the total unit sales. Direction The company assessment suggests that the ind ustry shall remain competitive in the next four years and later. While these challenges offer pressure for better business approaches, the company believes that its recognition of value and quality through provision of unique services shall aid to push it to an advantaged level (Euro Monitor International, 2009). Currently, the company’s valuation and strategic market analysis has shown that its ability to beat the market lies in the eventful provision of first-class tour and travel services. Additionally, the company underpins its performance on the nature and quality of its employees in delivering these services.Advertising Looking for proposal on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Rationale VB believes in respecting the varied cultural needs of its customers. Similarly, the company shall ensure that its service provision conforms to the legal and political legislations. The good relationsh ips shared between the company and the legal bodies will enable its proper functioning without bridge of the provisions of the law. Program Objective Pricing The concept of pricing is a critical component in the general progress of the company. To design the most sustainable pricing model, the company shall rely on the market surveys and research. The researches taken by its marketing team will be essential in modeling a price package that appeals to the economic needs of its customers as well as the cost aspects of the company. These sets of information have proven that pricing shall be undertaken in a differentiated manner (Jeanine, 2010). This is because of the heterogeneous nature of the clientele projected as the target market. Advertising and Promotion The promotional strategy depends mainly on making the right information available to the right target customer. The company shall make sure that those who have the budget and appreciate the product know that it exists, and know where to find it. The marketing team has to convey the sense of quality in every picture, every promotion, and every publication. The company anticipates shaping itself to appear in second-rate catalogs with poor illustrations that make the product look less than it is. They also need to leverage their presence using high-quality catalogs and specialty distributors. Sales and distribution Therefore, the service provision of the company shall follow a segmented marketing strategy. This is because the customers that shall be served by our company have varied needs and demands. The marketing unit has prepared inclusive approaches to help in boosting the sales of the business. Individualized and generalized marketing and distribution shall be helpful in meeting the marketing and sales prospects. Service The company has received an appointment as an agency for major suppliers of tour vacation packages throughout Brazil. The company is still negotiating for the lucrative alliance and part nership with the leading and major travel tour companies in the region. This plans aim at ensuring that the company affords a wide service portfolio in order to maximize its profits during the festive period of world cup. Apart from provision of the ordinary services, our company anticipates to differentiate its service offering from the rest of the competitors by promising safety and enjoyable customer service with a lasting experience. Some of the services shall include insurance, service directory, and informational services from both pre and post vacation packages.Advertising We will write a custom proposal sample on Business Plan Visite Brazil Company specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The company believes that selling tour related products would have far-reaching influence on the company’s overall profits. In conjunction with other service providers, Visite Brazil projects to offer inclusive services that would render it a one-stop tour agency. Monitoring and Controls Secondary Data In ensuring that the business gets on the right footing, the company has made use of the available historical records and data concerning the tour business. Comparative analysis of the previous sales, costs, profitability, and number of visitors shall serve to benefit the firm in respect of its projections. Sales reports To succeed in monitoring its sales and measuring them against the projected sales, our company shall utilize the periodic sales reports in evaluating its progressive movement. All the respective units of the company shall remain committed to market the company’s services and goods to meet the expected goals. Information Sources Primary Data The company has focused on gaining market knowledge in order to approach it from a market-led perspective. This aims at making Visite Brazil a tour agency firm of choice by all the prospective visitors visiting Brazil and other neighboring countries for both fo otball festivities and other recreational activities (Euro Monitor International, 2009) and (Mancini, 2009). The company shall undertake a market research and surveys in order to demonstrate the need for gaining first-hand information about the customers. The market surveys shall offer the company with requisite data, which shall be analyze. The analysis will aim at achieving themes necessary in explaining the market scenario. Although the secondary, records and data are relevant in informing the company, the survey data shall display the real demographics necessary in developing strategic decisions. Sales Records Actual sales reports shall be essential in enabling the sales and marketing department to estimate continuous progress in the company’s profitability and market share. The company estimates that it will achieve an average market share of about 20% of the total tour and travel market. Specialized Consulting firms The business of tour agency cannot be approached from a unidirectional perspective. Analysis of the industry reveals the industry needs in tour agency and progress shall rely on the strategic business alliances and partnerships. In order to strategically position the businessAdvertising Looking for proposal on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Consumer Panel Contingency Plans and Other Miscellaneous Documents Contingency Plans Although Visite Brazil has enacted strategic business plans that will take it through its operations, it believes that the challenges of the contemporary tourism industry. In order to enable Visite to cope with these inherent challenges, the management believes that setting up strategic plans capable of sustaining future uncertainties remain relevant to Visite Company. Visite Brazil Company is unique in its discovery and utilization of the high quality, executive level tour and travel niche. Therefore, it is possible that with our success and superior services, other well-established tour firms will release a competitive service line. However, VB focuses specifically on the high-end, technologically integrated aspect of tour services. With this exclusive concentration, VB can continue to focus its resources on producing the best executive level tour and travel services. Another possible challenge wo uld be the emergence of a new company in our niche. This however, would not constitute a great threat, as their initial market share would be minuscule, allowing us to strategize further for continued success. Finally, and tour and travel company may choose to begin marketing to our target market. This would not be overly threatening because VB products and services are inherently the best available due to the true artisanship and design involved coupled with its well-known excellent customer service (Singh, 2008). Alternative Strategies Strategic business positioning demands that affirm develops alternative business models that would help to leverage it in the future. Although there are many other players in the industry, VB believes in its reserved strategies and their ability to offer best alternatives in beating the market. The primary strategies shall include strategic expansion and differentiation in reaching the target markets and favorably competing (Mancini, 2009). However, the company believes that the application of the price leadership strategy would offer the best fallback means for positioning the business on a more competitive edge. This strategy shall be achieved by customizing the services in order to appeal to the loyalty of the customers (Jeanine, 2010) and (Singh, 2008). References Euro Monitor International. (2010). Travel and Tourism in Brazil. Retrieved from https://www.euromonitor.com/online-travel-sales-to-residents-in-brazil/report Jeanine, P. (2010). Brazil Wants You Clients. Retrieved from https://www.travelagentcentral.com/destinations/brazil-wants-your-clients Mancini, M. (2009). Selling Destinations: Geography for the Travel Professional. New York, NY: Cengage Learning. Singh, L.K. (2008). Marketing in service industry: airline, travel, tours and hotel. New York, NY: Gyan Publishing House.

Early Religion in Ancient Mesopotamia

Early Religion in Ancient Mesopotamia We can only speculate about early religion. When the ancient cave painters drew animals on the walls of their caves, this may have been part of a belief in the magic of animism. By painting the animal, the animal would appear; by painting it speared, success in the hunt might be guaranteed. Neanderthals buried their dead with objects, presumably so they could be used in the afterlife. By the time mankind was banding together in cities or city-states, structures for the gods- like temples- dominated the landscape. Four Creator Gods Ancient Mesopotamians attributed the forces of nature to the workings of divine forces. Since there are many forces of nature, so there were many gods and goddesses, including four creator gods. These four creator gods, unlike the Judaeo-Christian concept of God, were NOT there from the beginning. The forces of Taimat and Abzu, who had emerged from a primordial chaos of water, created them. This isnt unique to Mesopotamia; the ancient Greek creation story also tells of primordial beings who emerged from Chaos. The highest of the four creator gods was the sky-god An, the over-arching bowl of heaven.Next came Enlil who could either produce raging storms or act to help man.Nin-khursag was the earth goddess.The fourth god was Enki, the water god and patron of wisdom. These four Mesopotamian gods did not act alone, but consulted with an assembly of 50, which is called the Annunaki. Innumerable spirits and demons shared the world with the Annunaki.​ How the Gods Helped Mankind The gods bound people together in their social groups and were believed to have provided what they needed to survive. The Sumerians developed stories and festivals to explain and harness help for their physical environment. Once a year came the new year and with it, the Sumerians thought the gods decided what would happen to mankind for the coming year. Priests Otherwise, the gods and goddesses were more concerned with their own feasting, drinking, fighting, and arguing. But they could be prevailed upon to help on occasion if ceremonies were performed to their liking. The priests were responsible for the sacrifices and rituals that were essential for the help of the gods. In addition, property belonged to the gods, so priests administered it. This made the priests valuable and important figures in their communities. And so, the priestly class developed.

DB1 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

DB1 - Essay Example Forecasting is the practice of predicting the sources of expected revenues while budgeting details the use of the expected revenues (Dlabay & Burrow, 2007). Forecasting data is mainly used in preparing the budgets. Budgeting allows the organization to control the cash flow of the organization (Shim, Siegel & Shim, 2012). In summary, budgeting entails preparing a financial plan while forecasting involves predicting the future revenues and expenditure. Budgeting is mainly done for a financial year unless forecasting that can take longer periods (Crosson & Needles, 2011). There are certain differences between operating budgets and cash budget. Operating budget is mainly prepared for each income statement components such as the production budget, sales budget (Crosson & Needles, 2011). Operating budgets mainly provide a blueprint on how the business will conduct its operations in a certain period of time like the expected production level, the sales volumes (Dlabay & Burrow, 2007). On the other hand, cash budgets are prepared after the preparation of operating budgets. The cash budget contains the receipts, disbursements, the cash deficit or surplus (Burton & Thakur, 1998). Zero based budgeting approach requires each cost element to be justified. The budget allowance is usually zero. Each budget is prepared from zero based instead of the previous year’s budget as the base (Crosson & Needles, 2011). Each manager must justify the need for spending through detailed proposals of costs, purpose, alternative courses of action and measures of budget performance. Zero based budgeting will improve efficiency through detecting inflated budgets and recognizing obsolete operations (Crosson & Needles, 2011). The budgeting approach leads to greater incentives for responsible decision making and increases communication and coordination in the organization (Burton & Thakur, 1998). Forecasting is predicting the future events,

Contrast between Japanese Ninja Anime and American Ninja Cartoon Essay

Contrast between Japanese Ninja Anime and American Ninja Cartoon - Essay Example This is because if the movies lacked the bad people, then it would not have achieved the current audience level. The main difference between the two films is the level of engagement between characters. For instance in Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow, the characters maintain a fair relationship without getting into extreme action. In the first scenes, Naruto and his accomplices are assigned the role of protecting an actor during a filming procession. At first, the characters have a fair relationship and there is not much to report in terms of action and conflicts. Real action begins soon after the characters reach the land of snow where they were attracted by bad guys. Unlike TMNT, the Naruto the Movie: Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow has proactive action (Wiater 98). In this approach, the main characters only attract after they have been attacked. On the other hand, TMNT characters display active action. Through this approach, the characters go out in search of bad guys. The film is set in a crime-ravaged New York City where the ninja turtles are out to fight crime. Unlike the previous movie, the ninja turtles go out in search of criminals and engage them. The movie is more action packed than Ninja Clash in the Land of Snow. The action scenes in the film are fun to watch and they have a comic approach. Indeed, the action in the movie lacks a definite story of a purposeful theme (Rahimi 34). The turtles are involved in street fights to secure the place in the city and to curb lawlessness. However, the titles attack crime suspects even before confirming their involvement in crime. The films have striking artistic features. At the beginning, both movies have stunning colors. Unfortunately, things begin to... The two movies are related yet very different in terms of presentation and use of cinematography techniques. Moreover, the films have different ways of creating and presentation of characters. Nevertheless, the movies have a similar audience and their plot developments are almost similar. The two films use different approaches character creation. Although both films use hypothetical characters, there was a tendency to create a sense of reality among the directors. The American Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle uses cartoons while Japanese Anime Ninja uses amines to develop its characters. Unlike cartoons, amines have distinct facial expressions that can be used to create a wide variety of physical characteristics. Thus, amines are closer to reality than cartoon (Eastman 123). On the other hand, cartoons have features that are far from being real (Wiater 98). Moreover, cartoons do not have proportional physical appearances. Amines can be used to tell real human stories while cartoons are us ed specifically for comic purposes. The attributes of cartoons and amine as described above create distinctive element between the two films. Moreover, the different approach to character development audience and plot. Indeed, plot and theme development in both movies was determined by the differences in character developments and creation. The movies have significant levels of similarity despite having different set up, themes and character selection. Both films tell ninja stories and elimination of crime and bad guys. The films also have disparities in their selection of colors and background structures. This makes them to attract different audiences and following.

James Rachels The Challenge of Cultural Relativism Article

James Rachels The Challenge of Cultural Relativism - Article Example The cultural outcomes can be argued using facts about a particular culture, creating an argument that has an end result. But the argument itself is relative because it focuses on each culture has its own moral code which is not objective because opinions are formed based on experience and opinions are in themselves subjective and subject to different cultures. Rachels argues that cultural relativism has three unacceptable consequences. What are they? Rachels argues that cultural relativism has three unacceptable consequences and they are that we can’t feel superior to a different culture, we can question the moral conduct of our culture upfront by asking whether one thing is right, or wrong and then stick to that response and risked being looked down upon and finally, we begin to doubt whether progress is possible, necessary, and even important through venues such as social reform.1. What does Kant mean by saying that a good will is the only thing that is good without qualification? He means that a good will is the only thing that can’t be measured by how much one does or does not do. Intelligence, talent, courage, and diligence are all good things but are useless unless you have good character or will. If you have a positive desire to do and use your talents, they what you produce will be out of good, and not used incorrectl y. We are all given power, and this power can be put to good use or bad use but it is still power. A goodwill allows the power to be put essentially to good use. When does an action have moral worth? An action has moral worth when it is done for the sake of duty and not for the sake of conforming to duty. This means that if we do something, we should do it for the sake of duty or right.not for the sake of sympathy.

Critical thinking Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Critical thinking - Assignment Example to use simple dictions that can be understood even by the common reader who is not so much specialized and familiar with medical issues and, most importantly, his desire and strong determination to obliquely make would-be-doctors of the great perils that surround the career for which they have plumped. Unlike other journals that look badly organized in so far as the form is concerned, Tien’s journal seems well organized and well developed given the effective and efficient writing techniques he deployed in his addressing of the issue. There is an introduction, a body and even a conclusion, all of which make his journal purposeful and worth-reading. What is more is that the presentation he attended paved the way for him to better approach the field of medicine he is engaged in and helped him a lot discover some striking and dangerous facts of which other would-be-doctors were heedless. Last but not least, I think that Tien’s journal seems coherent in that it abides by the linguistic rules. Besides, his critique is by no means very constructive. Initially, He started from something general and was capable of narrowing down the topic to reach the aim after which he was hankering. Thus, after the presentation, he did develop many good ideas that utterly changed his view of the work and these ideas shall unmistakably lead him to be so successful in his

Supreme court cases and the concept of Federalism. How they relate to Essay

Supreme court cases and the concept of Federalism. How they relate to the Federalists 10, 46 or 78 arguments - Essay Example Raich (2005), South Dakota V. Texas (1987) and Lawrence V. Texas (2003). Moreover, the discussion will also highlight how these cases relate to the Federalists 10, 46 or 78 arguments. The case of Gonzalez v. Raich (2005) is mainly related to the legal medical use of marijuana. In relation to this case, it can be ascertained that during the year 1996, California law passed the ‘Compassionate Use Act’, authorizing the use of marijuana for medical treatment. On the other hand, Controlled Substances Act (CSA) banned the use of the same. This difference in the viewpoints persisting between California law and CSA eventually led towards a conflicting situation. The major issue, which emerged in relation to the case, is mainly determining whether Congress is having the power to regulate marijuana production agreeable to the interstate commerce clause. Specially mentioning, this case addresses the federalism concept in the form of witnessing the involvement of both federal government and individual states concerning the regulation of producing and consuming marijuana (Oyez, Inc., â€Å"GONZALES v. RAICH†). South Dakota v. Dole (1987) is related to the case wherein South Dakota sued district court against Dole and the US government in relation to the violation of Section 158. This particular Section sets the constitutional limits on Congress regarding the power based on â€Å"21st amendment to the US constitution.† In accordance with the South Dakota law, individuals aged 19 and above are permitted to buy beer having 3.2% alcohol. The case illustrates the dispute regarding the state and the power of federal government in relation to the implementation of a minimum drinking usage. Again, the involvement of state as well as the federal government in this jurisdiction issue relates the aforesaid case with the concept of federalism (Thomson Reuters, â€Å"SOUTH DAKOTA v. DOLE, 483 U.S.

Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 33

Case Study Example Political risk: After the NATO bombing of Chinese embassy in Belgrade in 1997 there were demonstrations in China. The Chinese protestors attacked KFC since it is US based; KFC is hence faced by political risks in its operations in oversea countries. Adoption strategy: KFC has been able to adapt to changes in customer tastes and to suit new environments. It has changed its menus to suits the Chinese tastes and eating styles; it has close ties with the Chinese government, hires local managers and also sources for food within the country. To suit the Chinese culture of eating in groups it has introduced large sharing dishes. Unethical practices: KFC has been accused of unethical practices, for example, when slaughtering the birds they cut their throats and through the birds in scorching water while they are still conscious. KFC has failed to heed to its animal welfare advisors advice on abolishing this cruel practice. KFC uses oil containing Tran’s fatty acid increasing cholesterol intake, obesity and risk of heart

Supreme court cases and the concept of Federalism. How they relate to Essay

Supreme court cases and the concept of Federalism. How they relate to the Federalists 10, 46 or 78 arguments - Essay Example Raich (2005), South Dakota V. Texas (1987) and Lawrence V. Texas (2003). Moreover, the discussion will also highlight how these cases relate to the Federalists 10, 46 or 78 arguments. The case of Gonzalez v. Raich (2005) is mainly related to the legal medical use of marijuana. In relation to this case, it can be ascertained that during the year 1996, California law passed the ‘Compassionate Use Act’, authorizing the use of marijuana for medical treatment. On the other hand, Controlled Substances Act (CSA) banned the use of the same. This difference in the viewpoints persisting between California law and CSA eventually led towards a conflicting situation. The major issue, which emerged in relation to the case, is mainly determining whether Congress is having the power to regulate marijuana production agreeable to the interstate commerce clause. Specially mentioning, this case addresses the federalism concept in the form of witnessing the involvement of both federal government and individual states concerning the regulation of producing and consuming marijuana (Oyez, Inc., â€Å"GONZALES v. RAICH†). South Dakota v. Dole (1987) is related to the case wherein South Dakota sued district court against Dole and the US government in relation to the violation of Section 158. This particular Section sets the constitutional limits on Congress regarding the power based on â€Å"21st amendment to the US constitution.† In accordance with the South Dakota law, individuals aged 19 and above are permitted to buy beer having 3.2% alcohol. The case illustrates the dispute regarding the state and the power of federal government in relation to the implementation of a minimum drinking usage. Again, the involvement of state as well as the federal government in this jurisdiction issue relates the aforesaid case with the concept of federalism (Thomson Reuters, â€Å"SOUTH DAKOTA v. DOLE, 483 U.S.

Air Asia Essay Example for Free

Air Asia Essay A. Late Submission A 10% deduction per day of total coursework marks (excluding weekends and public holidays). Late submission between 5 to 10 days, results in a 50% deduction of total coursework marks. Late submission past 10 days results in an automatic 0% for coursework and the student will be barred from the final examination. B. Deliverables Students must submit all materials supporting their coursework listed in the deliverable section. The coursework must be done individually and must be entirely your own work. Please make sure that you are aware of the rules concerning plagiarism. If you are unclear about them, please consult your program coordinator/lecturer. The coursework should exhibit formal research skills i. e. with a table of content, proper citations, references, and appendices. The coursework write up must be able to demonstrate critical analysis and application of both theory and practical issues to the company that you have selected. Student may include additional relevant data/information apart from the proposed guidelines in conjunction to your research. Additional marks will be awarded for such attempt. A CD containing the softcopy version of your coursework should be submitted as well (if required). BACHELOR OF BUSINESS MANAGEMENT (HONS) BACHELOR OF ACCOUNTING (HONS) COURSEWORK QUESTIONS Choose one of the strategic change and management framework highlighted below and critically analyze and evaluate with supporting examples. PEST Analysis Porter’s 5 Forces Porter’s Value Chain Your report should attempt the following tasks: a) Discussion of the principles underlying the framework. b) A critical evaluation on the application of the framework in actual business context. c) Relating the framework to an organization of your choice. Your report should include: Cover Page Grading Scheme Executive Summary Table of Content Questions (a) (c) List of References/Bibliography Appendices (if relevant) BACHELOR OF BUSINESS MANAGEMENT (HONS) Guidelines (1) Your mark in this coursework will carry a 25% weight in the assessment of your overall performance in this module. (2) You will be working on this coursework individually. (3) The assignment will be in a report format of not more than 1,500 words. (4) Appropriate APA referencing system will be employed where applicable. (5) Your assignment should be type written, 1 ? line spaced, font 12 Times New Roman and justify aligned. Please staple and do not comb bind. (6) Please provide an executive summary, table of content, page number, proper heading title for each part answered and references. (7) Use an appropriate cover sheet. (8) Please attach a copy of the grading scheme at the front of your coursework (after the Cover Page) during submission. (9) The assignment will be submitted on 25th October 2012 (Thursday) in class. Assignment of Grades for Written Work Written assignments will be graded according to the following distribution: 70%: Content (thoroughness of preparation, information, and content) 20%: Style (grammar, writing quality, clarity of writing at the sentence level) 10%: Presentation (organization, clarity of writing at the paper level) What this means in practice is that if you do the work, but dont organize your thoughts or write clearly, you will end with at most a B. However, you will not be given full credit for content if the lecturer cannot understand what youre saying, so if you dont write clearly, you will probably end up losing points on content as well. BACHELOR OF BUSINESS MANAGEMENT (HONS) Academic Dishonesty As stated in the faculty Handbook, cheating, including plagiarism will not be tolerated. All written work, including paper summaries, must be your own work. If you wish to quote a source, you must do so explicitly, and with proper attribution. Any work that does not meet the requirements set out above will be treated as a violation of the academic honesty policy for the class, and dealt with accordingly.

Management Strategies Of World Heritage Site In Mauritius Tourism Essay

Management Strategies Of World Heritage Site In Mauritius Tourism Essay 2.1 Introduction Growing interest in culture and heritage by tourists has led to such an increase in the number of visits to cultural heritage destinations in the world that cultural tourism has become one of the fastest-growing market segments in tourism. The preservation of cultural heritage through tourism receives more and more recognition and at the same time, collaboration and stakeholder involvement are increasingly used in the tourism development process (Aas, Ladkin and Fletcher, 1999, p. 29). Bramwell and Lane (2000) add that collaboration and partnerships have come of age in the field of tourism. Although it is understood that in order for conservation efforts to be sustainable, there is a need to work closely together with the local communities, site managers and other stakeholders (IMPACT, 2004), practice still shows that heritage management often does not involve any of the local counterparts (Imon, DiStefano Yin, 2006; Taylor, 2006). This chapter offers a literature review of the most important concepts related to the topic of the research upon the management of world heritage site. Firstly, some definitions of the basic terms used, such as cultural and heritage tourism. Then, it examines heritage management in depth, the main elements of the management and the challenges that managers have to face. Finally, the link between the management of built heritage and natural attractions and the key issues of this management is established. Within these issues conservation and protection by different bodies such as UNESCO, Local Community and stakeholders and also an empirical review management of another heritage site, are covered. 2.2 Heritage tourism With growing economy, tourism is one of the biggest phenomena that the world is experiencing today. Heritage tourism is one of the significant commodities and a great marketing tool that has the power to influence all forms of tourism. Heritage tourism helps to understand and appreciate the past of a country. According to the World Heritage Council of 1996, they have put forward this definition for the word heritage, heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live today and what we pass on to the future generations. Swanbrooke( 1994:222) state that tourism is based on heritage, where heritage is the core product that is offered , and heritage is the main motivating factor consumers. A review of approaches to defining heritage tourism shows that this concept is extremely complex. Academic world has not yet found agreement over the issue of understanding the nature of Heritage tourism in a unified and specific way. Some studies have define Heritage tourism as leisure trip with the primary purpose of visiting historic, cultural, natural, recreational and scenic attractions to learn more about the past in an enjoyable way Understanding of heritage can be all encompassing and features many viewpoints, such as visitor experience (Poria et al., 2001, 2003); supply and demand (Apostolopoulos and Gayle, 2002); and the perception of social, natural and cultural history (Christou, 2005). Some authors emphasize the importance of motivations of heritage tourists, who act in accordance with their perceptions of their own heritage (Poria et al., 2001). Heritage tourism is also described in terms of tangible objects and resources (Garrod and Fyall, 2001) and intangible experiences and elements of the culture of a social group or nation (Timothy and Boyd, 2002). 2.3 Cultural Heritage Tourism During the 1990s, cultural tourism was identified as one of the major future growth areas in tourism industry (Zeppel and Hall, 1992). This fast-growing segment of the industry attracts visitors who tend to stay longer, spend more, and travel in the off-season (Calhoun, 2000, p. 92). The growing proportion of cultural tourism within tourism, according to Richards (2001) is due to the fact that more and more tourist attractions are now being defined as cultural. Thus, it is hard to define the concepts of cultural tourism and cultural tourist since they have a broad sense. Cultural Heritage tourism is commonly regarded as tourism with the main purpose of viewing tangible representations such as historic and cultural elements of the built environment (e.g. colonial architecture, monuments, houses of worship) and the physical landscape, but also includes intangible components including myths, folksongs and value systems, for example (Halewood Hannam, 2001: 566; Prentice, 1993: 8; Smith, 1989: 5; Timothy Boyd, 2003: 4). The term of cultural tourism is so broad that it covers concepts such as heritage, arts, creativity, urban, culture, rural culture, indigenous culture and popular culture. Attention will be paid to the heritage aspect of cultural tourism. After investigating cultural tourism, the subject will be narrowed down to concentrate on built heritage. Given the large variety of forms that cultural tourism can have, it is unrealistic to provide only one definition, as broad as it could be. However, Richards (2001, p. 7) suggests that cultural tourism covers not only the consumption of the cultural products of the past, but also of contemporary culture or the way of life of a people or a region. Cultural tourism therefore covers heritage tourism (related to artefacts of the past). Heritage tourism is widely concerned with the representation of the past. . 2.4 World Heritage Site UNESCO adopted the Convention Concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage in 1972. The purpose of the convention is to ensure the identification, protection, conservation, presentation and transmission to future generations of cultural and natural heritage of outstanding universal value. The outstanding universal value is translated into ten criteria for evaluating sites nominated for inscription on the World Heritage List. The Convention states that the World Heritage Committee (WHC) should coordinate the process of designating the sites through a system known as inscription, which includes an evaluation of the resources by experts against a set of known criteria. The aim of the inscription is to encourage conservation of the resources within designated sites and surrounding buffer zones on a local level and also to foster a sense of collective global responsibility via international 25 cooperation, exchange and support (Leask 2006). As of April 1, 2009, 186 countries are party to the Convention; 878 properties are inscribed on the list 679 of which are cultural, 174 natural and 25 mixed (Engelhardt 2009). Moreover, WHS are the testimony to the natural wealth of the earth and the cultural excellence of human kind. They represent the best and most important examples of our cultural and natural heritage. Hall and Piggin (2002: 402) stated that the bestowing of WHS status on a Heritage attraction is a significant factor on the basis of the inherent qualities of the property. Throughout the world there are natural and man-made heritage sites that are considered to have a very great importance to the humanity. By giving those sites an importance, we are protecting our most valuable heritage. According to the operational guidelines for the implementation of the World heritage convention, WHS can be classified as natural or man-made. 2.4.1 Natural Heritage site Natural Heritage designates outstanding physical, biological and geological features; habitats of threatened plants or animal species and areas of value on scientific or aesthetic grounds or from a conservation perspective.   Types of natural heritage Physical and biological formations or groups of such formations, which are of outstanding universal value from the aesthetic or scientific point of view. Geological and physiographical formations and precisely delineated areas which constitute the habitat of threatened species of animals and plants of outstanding universal value from the point of view of science or conservation. Natural sites or precisely delineated natural areas of outstanding universal value from the point of view of science, conservation or natural beauty. 2.4.2 Cultural Heritage Site   Cultural Heritage designates a monument, group of buildings or site of historical, aesthetic, archaeological, scientific, ethnological or anthropological value. Types of Cultural Heritage: Monuments: architectural works, works of monumental sculpture and painting, elements or structures of an archaeological nature, inscriptions, cave dwellings and combinations of features, which are of outstanding universal value from the point of view of history, art or science; Groups of buildings: groups of separate or connected buildings which, because of their architecture, their homogeneity or their place in the landscape, are of outstanding universal value from the point of view of history, art or science; Sites: works of man or the combined works of nature and man, and areas including archaeological sites which are of outstanding universal value from the historical, aesthetic, ethnological or anthropological point of view. 2.5 Impact of tourism on WHS There has been an increasing interest in the impact of tourism on World Heritage Sites (WHSs) over the past 20 years. This is motivated in part by the commonly held view that World Heritage Listing increases visitor numbers. While the reality of this view is still subject to debate (Buckley, 2005), an expectation of substantial growth in tourist interest has been noted as a driving factor in recentWorld Heritage nominations (Jones Munday, 2001; Rodwell, 2002).Impact is a change (whether environmental, economic or social change) in a given state over time as the result of external stimulus (Hall and Lew 2009). Tourism impacts, according to Ritchie and Goeldner (1994) and Mason (2003), include economic, social, and environmental impacts. In tourism, the impact of tourism is experienced in all elements of tourism system. Tourism system refers to various sectors involved in facilitating travel to and from a destination, and the inter-relationships between these sectors (Hall 2008). Ther e are several approaches to analyzing tourism system. Tourism system from a geographical point of view includes four elements, i.e. generating region (the source region of the tourists); transit region or route (the region the tourist must travel through to reach their destination); destination region (the region that the tourist chooses to visit and where the most obvious impact of tourism occur); and the environment (encompassing the overall travel flows and with which the tourist interacts) (Hall 2008). There are two more approaches to tourism systems, one focuses on the supply and demand dimension of tourism, whereas the other one emphasizes the systems functioning for particular stakeholder groups (ibid.). This particular study focuses on tourism impact occurring in the destination region. According to Frechtling (1994), studying the economic impact of tourism means analyzing travels activity impact on resident wealth or income in a defined area. Stynes (1997), on the other hand, said that economic impact analysis of tourism traces the flows of spending associated with tourism activity in a region to identify changes in sales, tax, revenues, income and jobs due to tourism activity. Frechtling (1994) acknowledged that many studies of tourisms economic impact emphasize on travel spending, similar to Stynes view above. However, Frechtling stresses that travel expenditure studies tend to obscure the impact on residents income and wealth because tourists spending sometimes has little to do with resident earnings and employment. Therefore, travel expenditures are best viewed as merely the initial monetary activity that stimulates the production process and initiates economic impact (ibid.) 2.6 The Management strategies of WHS The management of WHSs was first addressed as a specific field of interest in 1993 by Fielden and Jokilehto in the Management Guidelines for World Cultural Heritage Sites. Reference is made in the Management Guidelines to giving heritage a function in the life of the community, discussing objectives with local authorities and tourism boards and the need for a comprehensive tourism development strategy for individual sites (Fielden Jokilehto, 1998). However, given that the primary aim of the World Heritage Convention is to ensure . . . the identification, protection, conservation, presentation and transmission to future generations of cultural and natural heritage (UNESCO, 1972, Article 4), it is not surprising that the emphasis of the Management Guidelines at that time was on the conservation of tangible heritage rather than the management of intangible heritage and visitor activity (Rodwell, 2002; Wilson Boyle, 2006). Moreover, according to the Article 5 of World heritage convention which states that to adopt a general policy which aims to give the cultural and natural heritage a function in the life of the community and to integrate the protection of that heritage into comprehensive planning programmes This approach changed in 1997 when a standardised format for the nomination of sites for inscription on the World Heritage List was adopted. A management plan became a pre-requisite for all new nominations and sites inscribed before then were required to submit plans by 2005. Since 1997, the requirements for a formal planning approach and stakeholder participation have been further developed in the Operational Guidelines for the Implementation of the World Heritage Convention (UNESCO, 2005). The Operational Guidelines suggesting an effective system of management should include a continuous cycle of planning, implementing, monitoring, evaluating and feedback, together with the active involvement of stakeholders in the planning process (UNESCO, 2005, Article 111). The expectation of a holistic and integrated approach to achieving . . . an appropriate and equitable balance between conservation, sustainability and development, and ensuring . . . the active involvement of [. . .] Local communities is further accentuated in the Budapest Declaration on World Heritage (World Heritage Committee, 2002). However,in keeping with the preceding discussion, little guidance or advice is provided on how to achieve this in practice (Wilson Boyle, 2006). 2.6.1 Preservation and Conservation The object of conservation is to prolong the life of cultural property and, if possible, to clarify the historic and artistic messages therein without loss of authenticity. This is the definition given by the Organisation of World Heritage Cities (www.ovmp.org) of conservation. Heritage attractions are considered historic documents, suppliers of architectural, social and economical historic information about the past that is not available from any other source, and this makes conservation even more important. Another definition similar to the previous one, but that emphasizes the ultimate effort of conservation was given by Cunliffe (1997), arguing that conservation has to ensure that the important aspects of a site are understood if it is to be retained in the context of future change or development. Conservation of these site are very important in case of eventual change or development that may occur in the future. Historic building differ from new one as they are expected to last forever in other words as long as it is wanted. Worthing and Dann (2009) stated that in an historic context, the terms maintenance and repair cannot be exchangeable as they might be for other building types. Moreover, cost of maintaining and repairing an historic feature is not usually huge however when cost arises it is usually due to a poor management. Pearson and Sullivan ( 1995, P.11) outline the aims of conservation management as the explanation of all the values of heritage places, the development long-term preservation and the implementation of management practices that safeguard the fundamental nature and physical form of the place. Conservation is, without doubt, one of the most important tools in heritage management. According to Millar (1989) it is the first stage in heritage management; she considered that conservation is the critical issue in world heritage site management long-term planning (Millar, 1989:10) now that heritage tourism is in its greatest growth. Other authors, such as Shuhaimi, agree with her statement arguing that realizing that tourists will bring about substantial negative impact on heritage sites, the management of these sites must have a master plan that will emphasize on conservation (Shuhaimi, 1997: 127). To implement the right management policy, Du Cros (2001) argued that the priority between the two basic elements involve must be clear. One of those elements is conservation, while the other is commodification and promotion of the site. The author stressed that this management priority should be used as a guide for converting, in the appropriate way, places into heritage attractions. This statement shows again the importance given by professionals to the conservation issue. Conservation is, probably, the heritage management issue more in conflict with tourism since its objective is to preserve and to protect heritage, while tourism interests want to market sites and generate economic benefits by attracting as many visitors as possible. However, tourism is also one of the basic issues if not the basic one. 2.6.2 Visitor management Visitor management is becoming an increasingly important issue in world heritage site for those responsible for heritage sites, particularly those that have achieved WHS status. Shackley (2006) states that the number of visitors have been increasing due to the accessibility to facilities by the society such as reduced travel costs, extensive media publicity given to sites. On the one hand, visitors bring is not only source of revenue, through admission fees, but also these sites provide them both educational and recreational opportunities. However, those visiting the site brings in the risk of harmful impacts upon the site and other artefacts found there ( Shackley,1998; Garrod, 2008). Encouraging more visitors may be at the same time a blessing as well as a curse for a typical heritage site. While some sites are relatively robust and can withstand increased levels of visitation, others will be more susceptible to damage. It is important, therefore, for those responsible for the heritage site to undertake visitor impact balance and design strategies that will be appropriate for the site. The visitor management is mostly important to sites that inscribed on the World Heritage list, enabling them to result in greater awareness on the part of prospective visitors and for higher visitation levels to result (shackley, 1998; Fyall and Rakic, 2006). Visitor management strategies are designed in such a way to contrl the number of visitors as well as their flow on the site. In order, to minimize the the management should restrict the visitors access to certain areas by establishing pathways, controlling the time of visits and by limiting the size of group of groups ( WTO, 1997) 2.6.3 Buffer zone The concept of buffer zone has been treatedin every version of the Operational Guidelines from the first version produced in 1977, forward to the present. The initial concept, then defined as one which may be applied, appears as an optional inscription requirement, and one without a clear purpose. The Operational Guidelines 1977 state: 26. When setting the boundary of a property to be nominated to the List, the concept of a buffer zone around the property may be applied where appropriate. In such instances the nominations would include: a) a precise definition of the surface area of the property itself, including the sub-surface area where necessary b) an indication of the buffer zone around the property itself (i.e. the natural or man-made surroundings that influence the physical state of the property or the way in the property is perceived). Such buffer zones will be determined in each case through technical studies and provided with adequate protection. 2.7 Organisation involved in the management of WHS Heritage management has been described as the process by which heritage managers attempt to make sense of the complex web of relationships surrounding heritage in a manner which meets the values and interests of many of the key stakeholders (Hall and McArthur 1996: 19). This raises questions, however, as to what occurs in situations where the management of heritage sites is shared by various organizing bodies with different functions and status and where there is no single coordinating body to bring these organizations together. Contrary to broad expectations, the UNESCO designation does not involve an overarching control of the management of sites (Bianchi 2002; Bianchi and Boniface 2002; Evans 2002). Rather, World Heritage Site status inevitably exposes designated areas to a complex web of national and regional policies and regulations (Hall 2006). These policies tend to arise from a discourse of heritage as having primarily a cultural tourism purpose, thus necessitating that the heritage sites be conserved and presented appropriately for international tourist consumption. Leask (2006: 13) argues that the key dilemma here is that it is difficult to balance tourism activity with the conservation role, often creating a tension or conflict between the usually large numbers of stakeholders involved. In particular, this emphasis on conservation and presentation to cultural tourists often means that less heed is paid to local community issues, including local community contemporary use and practice relating to t he site (Garrod and Fyall 2000). 3. World heritage Site in Mauritius 3.1 Le Morne Brabant Le Morne Cultural Landscape, a rugged mountain that juts into the Indian Ocean in the southwest of Mauritius was used as a shelter by runaway slaves, maroons, through the 18th and early years of the 19th centuries. Protected by the mountains isolated, wooded and almost inaccessible cliffs, the escaped slaves formed small settlements in the caves and on the summit of Le Morne. The oral traditions associated with the maroons, have made Le Morne a symbol of the slaves fight for freedom, their suffering, and their sacrifice, all of which have relevance to the countries from which the slaves came the African mainland, Madagascar, India, and South-east Asia. Indeed, Mauritius, an important stopover in the eastern slave trade, also came to be known as the Maroon republic because of the large number of escaped slaves who lived on Le Morne Mountain. It is a symbol of slaves fight for freedom, their suffering, and their sacrifice, all of which have relevance beyond its geographical location, to the countries from which the slaves came in particular the African mainland, Madagascar, India, and South-east Asia- and represented by the Creole people of Mauritius and their shared memories and oral traditions. Management of the Landscape At present there are two heritage legislations which govern the management of the Le Morne Cultural Landscape; The Le Morne Heritage Trust Fund Act of 2004 and the National Heritage Act of 2003. Copies of these legislations may be obtained at the seat of these two institutions and they may be contacted for any queries regarding management issues related to the landscape. The vision of the Fund for the cultural landscape is as follows: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦to serve as a focal point for current and future generations to celebrate resistance against oppression anywhere in the world as well as commemorate the suffering of humans through slavery and other systems of exploitation. It should be a living example of oppressed people achieving freedom, independence, dignity and respect for their values and cultures. It will do so by becoming a centre of excellence in terms of research, in particular the history of maroons in the wider context of slavery, and by playing a prominent role in unlocking cultural and economic opportunities for those who have suffered most under the system of slavery. The Mission To preserve and manage the cultural landscape of Le Morne so that it can be used in a wise and sustainable manner without compromising its authenticity and integrity. To develop Le Morne as a focal for celebrating resistance to slavery by furthering high quality research on slavery in general that will not only be made available to the public but in which the latetr can also participate; To utilize Le Morne as a tool for local economic development and capacity building so that it will play an important role in opening up opportunities for those who have been left behind in terms of economic development. To cherish Le Morne as a symbol of reconciliation and forgiveness, not only nationally but also on a global scale, so that humanity will combine forces to resist exploitation of one human by another; and To rally around Le Morne in support of those who continue to be oppressed and exploited by other human beings, so that it is not only a symbol of the past but a living reminder of the present. 3.2 Aapravasi Ghat Aapravasi Ghat is the site through which 450,000 indentured labourers from India first set foot in Mauritius between 1830s and the 1920s, marking one of the great waves of migration in recorded history. Set on the bay of Trou Fanfaron, in the capital Saint Louis, Aapravasi Ghat is the remains of a cluster of three stone buildings dating from the 1860s, built on the site of an earlier immigration depot. The remaining buildings represent less than half of what existed in the 1860s. The nominated site is tightly drawn around the buildings and covers 1640 sq metres. It is surrounded by a buffer zone which is part of the heart of the rapidly expanding city and a busy harbor. The island of Mauritius was chosen as the site for the first recipient of this new indenture system in 1834 (year of the post-abolished of slavery occurs), as it was perceived to be an expanding plantation economy unlike the exhausted West Indian sugar producers, and also because of its proximity to India. In Mauritius, most indentured workers were recruited from North India, especially Bihar and the Northwest Provinces such as Uttar Pradesh, although smaller numbers came from the Tamil and Telugu districts of South India. In the almost 90 years that the system was in operation, the British authorities in India handled around 1.2 million indentured labourers through emigration depots. Protection and Management Legal provision: The Aapravasi ghat site is owned by the Ministry of Arts and Culture. The core area is protected as a national monument in terms of the National Heritage Fund Act of 2003 and earlier legislation. This provides for the consent of the National Heritage Fund to be sought for any work done on the site. The Buffer zones are regulated by the Municipal Council of Port Louis as part of their overall regulation of their area under the Local Government Act. Management structure: The day-to-day management of the site is the responsibility of the Aapravasi Ghat Trust Fund. The Board of the Trust consists of representatives of key member institutions such as national Heritage fund, and the Ministries of Arts and Culture, Tourism and Finance. A technical team drawn from the Board reviews all site work. On 15th February 2006 a more detailed Draft Management Plan was submitted by the State Party on 15th February 2006. The Plan details what needs to be addressed in terms of management structure, and legal protection. Currently there is no national policy on World Heritage sites which impact on decisions by local authorities. 4. Methodology 4.1 Introduction This chapter deals with the different methods and instrument that were used in order to conduct this survey and also elaborate upon the methods chosen. It evaluates the management strategies which were being used to manage those WHS, Le Morne and Aapravasi Ghat. The objective is to show the different methods used to collect information and the reason why they have been used. Consequently, the research aim is to recalled and the objectives are shown so that the research framework is established. The survey was conducted at National Trust Fund, Aapravasi Ghat Trust Fund, Le Morne Trust Fund and Ministry of Arts Culture with the members responsible for managing both sites. Moreover, this chapter is devoted on the limitations of the methods used and the general limitation encountered during the gathering and analyzing data. 4.2 Sources of data Once the objectives were identified, a research plan was developed to gather the information. For this study, both primary and secondary data were used in order to gather information for analysis. Primary data: new information collected for the specific purpose of a particular research project. Secondary data: data that already exist and which have been collected to fit the purpose of other studies. First of all, Primary data are new data collected specially for the current study. Such data were collected through questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. On the other hand, secondary data was useful in finding out what have been done in previous research and theoretical information to grasp the real meaning of subject. The information gathered for this particular study was mainly done on the management strategies being used by the different bodies responsible Le Morne and Aapravasi Ghat. 4.2.1 Primary Data Primary data as stated before is a set of new data collected from the survey itself for purpose for the research. There are two approaches of primary data; the quantitative ad the qualitve approach. The first approach is mostly scientific method, while the second is more flexible, while the second is more flexible. Both, qualitative and quantitative approaches were used to conduct the survey. Qualitative approach was much more appropriate for the investigating into the problem. Moreover, Finn et al,2008, states that, qualitative approach tends to examine reality in all its complexity because they are free to ask question a qualitative researcher cannot easily pursue. This approach enable to gather rich information about small number of subjects from a small number of people can be collected ( Veal,1997). To investigate more the research, quantitative approach was also needed. This was used in order to gather information from workers of the different parastatal bodies. 4.2.2 Secondary Data A vital step, in any research process begins, is the review of previous research on which the topic was chosen. Secondary data was essential for the topic chosen. It is useful in finding out what have been done in previous research and theoretical information to grasp the real meaning of the subject. In fact, an important part of nearly all research is a review of the literature review ( Veal, 1997: 96). Information gathered was about the management of heritage site especially world heritage site as conservation and preservation, management strategies and visitor management. Thus, in this project, secondary data was mainly used in order to develop the research idea and to get information required to answer to the main question. Questionnaire Design The questionnaire used for this survey comprises of 27 questions divide in four sections namely; section A the respondent profile, section B based on attributes of the WHS, secti

My Philosophy of Education Essay -- Philosophy of Education Statement

Philosophy of Education What is my philosophy of education? For hours I have tried to decide what exactly that is. However after much thought I have not been able to come up with an exact answer. After much consideration I have decided that I have no real philosophy but I have goals that one day I will achieve. Although the goals sound simple I know that they will be difficult to attain. I have almost always wanted to teach. I grew up in a single parent household and my mother was an elementary school teacher. When I was younger I didn’t really appreciate what my mom was doing for her students. I only liked what it meant for me. I was allowed to leave with my mother at lunchtime and go out to eat, and I always received special privileges like using the principal’s computer. However as years passed I began to see the impact my mother had on students. Peers in high school would always tell me that my mother was their favorite teacher or how she sparked an interest in a specific subject or how she helped to understand a difficult subject. Therefore, my mother has always been an influence on why I wanted to teach. Even today when my mother asks or when I have time to I will go help her with school functions, classroom projects, or assistance in anything else my mother might require of me. Another reason I wanted to teach is because of the teachers I had in high school. I saw how respected and approachable they were, and ho... My Philosophy of Education Essay -- Philosophy of Education Statement Philosophy of Education What is my philosophy of education? For hours I have tried to decide what exactly that is. However after much thought I have not been able to come up with an exact answer. After much consideration I have decided that I have no real philosophy but I have goals that one day I will achieve. Although the goals sound simple I know that they will be difficult to attain. I have almost always wanted to teach. I grew up in a single parent household and my mother was an elementary school teacher. When I was younger I didn’t really appreciate what my mom was doing for her students. I only liked what it meant for me. I was allowed to leave with my mother at lunchtime and go out to eat, and I always received special privileges like using the principal’s computer. However as years passed I began to see the impact my mother had on students. Peers in high school would always tell me that my mother was their favorite teacher or how she sparked an interest in a specific subject or how she helped to understand a difficult subject. Therefore, my mother has always been an influence on why I wanted to teach. Even today when my mother asks or when I have time to I will go help her with school functions, classroom projects, or assistance in anything else my mother might require of me. Another reason I wanted to teach is because of the teachers I had in high school. I saw how respected and approachable they were, and ho...