Leadership Challenge and Charge Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Leadership Challenge and Charge - Research Paper Example Strategic thinking is similar to that of cognitive ability. Strategic thinking involves proper analysis of the problem. It does not end with mere analysis of the problem, instead planning and arriving at a solution is also considered as strategic thinking. The team leader or the manager should analyze the problems in all perspectives so that the corresponding decision or solution eradicates the problem. Another important factor is managing change and strategic thinking revolves around this concept which highlights the most prominent features of this concept. The cognitive ability, strategic thinking and analytical skills are considered as the basic requirement of a leader. Decision making skill is also one among the most important skills which a leader should possess. It is the ability to arrive at a decision based on the problem and in certain cases it might also depend on a particular situation. (Manning & Curtis, 2003). Apart from these factors, the skill to manage the difference in opinion among the team members is also required. This skill brings about several changes in the organization and hence it is considered as the crucial one. The scenario changes after every decision and this is the main reason why a leader is expected to possess the decision making skill. Though these skills play a major role in shaping up a leader, the interpersonal skills are also equally important. The Art of Leadership also includes coaching ability and learning skills that will help the leader to manage the team effectively. (Grint, 2001). Team leaders or managers must know how to coach the team members or the trainees. This in turn will enable the employees to perf orm in a better way. The interaction with the team increases the productivity of the organization as it motivates the employees to work towards achieving their goal. The art of leadership not only covers these skills, but

Social, Political, and Organizational Factors Essay

Social, Political, and Organizational Factors - Essay Example Though Hispanics constitute the major ethnic minority populace in the US, they have no access to health care provisions, and appropriate healthcare system In this regard, two important factors are to be considered (1). Hispanics are less expected to search for and obtain health-care services and system, which might donate to their inferior health status and high rates of mortality and morbidity (2). To evaluate dissimilarities in access to the most appropriate health-care facilities and precautionary services among non-Hispanics and Hispanics, with CDC examined 2001--2002 information from Behavioral Risk Feature Surveillance Scheme (BRFSS) surveys. 2. Briefly discuss the social and political influences behind this disparity. Does this population have one or more of the risk factors that Shi and Stevens (2010) identify? Offer evidence that supports your assertions. Social and political factors affect Hispanic’s admittance to preventive services as well as the major influences behind the disparity. Disparities in making use of various preventive services by ethnic or racial characteristics have been recognized; minority inhabitants, such as Hispanics, are less expected than non-Hispanics in getting preventive services. This report reveals that these disparities in access to screening practices and health-care among Hispanics and non-Hispanics still persist. Shi and Stevens (2010), identify that population as a whole have one or more risk factors. The health of a population is affected by its economic and social circumstances and the health care services it obtains. On an average, the socioeconomic position of Hispanics in the US is significantly lower than that of non-Hispanic whites. Hispanics also face various barriers in obtaining health care services of extremely high quality. Some of these obstacles occur due to their low socioecono mic position; others obstacle are due to various specific aspects of the Hispanic

Human Services for Child Welfare

Human Services for Child Welfare Human Services/Child Welfare/Child Abuse/Neglect Loretta McKelvey Abstract Human Services has several departments which are doing different functions. One department that has become a needed department would be child welfare. The following will help explain why it is needed. It will also be talking about the Human Services history and systems. Human Services has several department which are doing different things. One department that has become a needed department would be child welfare. The following will help explain why it is needed. Child welfare has been more involved with today’s society because of child abuse/child neglect is going on and being heard of more today than it was in the past of Human Services fields. Human services has evolved into a network of programs and agencies that provide an array of services to millions of Americans (Burger, 2014, p. 2). Primary social supports such as family, and friends, also play role in meeting human needs, and that role will be examined (Burger, 2014, p. 2). Early approaches to human services were cen tered on the hazards of illness, disability, and economic dependence. Programs were designed to help people who were unable to take care of their own needs. It was recognized that people with little or no income increasingly complex industrial societies were at risk of starvation or serious distress (Burger, 2014, p. 7). Human service background Colonial American times, it had been a commonly held belief that individuals should assist others in need by providing appropriate care and services. Early settlers from European countries to the American colonies believed caring for others to be a personal responsibility rather than a public duty the practice of charity has been a part of life since the first settlers. The laws and traditions prominent in England at the time were often adopted in early American communities (Norris-Tirrell, 2014).The statute sanctioned use of private monies for the benefit of the public good. Early American colonists incorporated these values as they shaped the roles of government, business and community (Norris-Tirrell, 2014). According to Norris-Tirrell â€Å"the population of the United States expanded, human service needs increased and changed role expectations for nonprofits. The impacts of disease, war, economic swings, and natural disasters were fertile ground for the creation of organizations such as the Ladies Aid Societies and the American Red Cross â€Å"(Norris-Tirrell, 2014). During the era of industrialization that followed the Civil War, voluntary organizations served many different functions including teaching vocation skills and advocating for reform (Norris-Tirrell, 2014). The latter resulted in the establishment of child labor laws and the creation of a juvenile justice system (Shields Rangarajan, 2011). In the late 1880s, Americans including Jane Addams advanced the settlement house model as a strategy for addressing urban poverty. This new movement embraced the progressive philosophy of the time emphasizing the importance of social science knowledge, compassion and expertise in creat ing solutions to social problems (Hall, 2010). After the American Revolution, the United States adopted laws based on the British Elizabethan â€Å"poor laws† to help people who could not economically provide for themselves (Van Slyke, 2002). Benjamin Franklin founded the first hospital for the care of persons with mental illness and devised a model of care that was practiced in hospital settings at the time (Van Slyke, 2002). Through the cooperative effort of community members, policy makers, and professionals from the medical field, this new model of care that arose during the â€Å"Moral Movement† was conceptually grounded in the belief that it was the responsibility of the general public to care for those in need (Van Slyke, 2002). The underpinnings of the Moral Movement therefore provided the framework for the establishment of the first mental health movement in America (Van Slyke, 2002). The Kennedy and Johnson Administrations followed with additional policies favorable for contracting out including The Public Assistance Amendments of 1962 and 1967 and The Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 (Van Slyke, 2002). Human services were prime candidates for privatization since existing nonprofit agencies held the necessary content expertise, thus â€Å"building on historical precedent to remove government from providing services that nongovernmental organizations already or can potentially provide† (Van Slyke, 2007, p. 159,) One agency of Department of Human Services is the Child welfare office that handles and deals with family and the charge of child abuse or neglect. The following will be discussing about Child Welfare and child abuse /neglect. Child welfare In the late 1930s, the network of child welfare professionals located in private agencies, public departments, advocacy organizations, and the U.S. Children’s Bureau, had grown optimistic that federal New Deal programs— such as Aid to Dependent Children (ADC), survivor’s insurance, and unemployment insurance—would eliminate (or at least sharply reduce) the role poverty played in separating children (like those of Morris, Collins, and Lane) from their families. Although these professionals did not always speak with one voice on all matters, they developed a general consensus around a number of issues (Rymph, 2012). Child welfare reformers believed that the 1935 Social Security Act would be a godsend for children in general, keeping families together and enabling more children to be raised in their own homes by their own parents (Rymph, 2012). With child welfare formed they started to see cases of child abuse. The following will discuss what is child abuse a nd child neglect and how the human services has and need to handle these clients. Child abuse Every child deserves a loving environment where they are not afraid of parental or elderly figures (Kiran, 2011). In recent years, the community has become increasingly aware of the problem of child abuse in our society (Kiran, 2011). Child abuse is prevalent in every segment of the society and is witnessed in all social, ethnic, religious and professional strata (Kiran, 2011). Human Services has several department which are doing different things. One department that has become a needed department would be child welfare. The following will help explain why it is needed. It will also be talking about the Human Services history and systems. One will work with children and families in need, many times they will deal with children that living in poor conditions, such as abuse, neglect, alcoholism, drug addiction, and poverty (Strolin-Goltzman, Kollar, Trinkle, 2010). Childhood should be a happy time, filled with memories of warmth, love, and carefree times (Child Welfare Social Work Careers, 2015).Unfortunately, not every child is blessed with loving parents and stable home lives (Child Welfare Social Work Careers, 2015). Some children are forced to cope with upheaval and problems at home, such as abuse, neglect, alcoholism, drug addiction, and poverty (Child Welfare Social Work Careers, 2015).Even in the United States, one of the most advanced countries in the world, some children still want for even the most basic of necessities, including food, shelter, health care, and appropriate clothing (Child Welfare Social Work Careers, 2015). Children who grow up in happy homes where all of their needs are met, typically grow u p to become happy, stable, and well-adjusted adults (Child Welfare Social Work Careers, 2015). On the other hand, those that grow up surrounded by unpleasant and dangerous situations often grow up suffering from mental and emotional unrest (Child Welfare Social Work Careers, 2015). They are plagued by the memories and images from their childhood, and some may even repeat the behavior that they witnessed, thinking that it’s normal (Child Welfare Social Work Careers, 2015). For example, studies show that children that grow up with abuse either go on to become abusers themselves or find themselves trapped in abusive relationships (Child Welfare Social Work Careers, 2015). Child Neglect Abuse and neglect, however, are major concerns for most child welfare social workers (Child Welfare Social Work Careers, 2015).The signs of both neglect and abuse can be very subtle at times and difficult to spot to the untrained eye (Child Welfare Social Work Careers, 2015). As a child welfare social worker, you will be trained to recognize signs of neglect and abuse in children and investigate. Below are a few examples of identifying signs of neglect and different types of abuse (Child Welfare Social Work Careers, 2015). Human service today Todays United States economy did not stand out until the 1970’s, nonprofit organization today offering a complex set of programs (Noris-Tirrel, 2014). Domestic violence shelters, job training and employment programs, child care centers, foster care, child protection these are a list of human services today provided by nonprofit organizations (Norris-Tirrel, 2014), Nonprofit organizations have been known to partnering with government, private business and communities in the delivery of human services (Norris-Tirrel, 2014). Conclusion Human Services has several department which are doing different things. One department that has become a needed department would be child welfare. The following will help explain why it is needed. It will also be talking about the Human Services history and systems. Human Services has several department which are doing different things. One department that has become a needed department would be child welfare. The following will help explain why it is needed. Child welfare has been more involved with today’s society because of child abuse/child neglect is going on and being heard of more today than it was in the past of Human Services fields. Human services has evolved into a network of programs and agencies that provide an array of services to millions of Americans (Burger, 2014, p. 2). Primary social supports such as family, and friends, also play role in meeting human needs, and that role will be examined (Burger, 2014, p. 2). Early approaches to human services were centere d on the hazards of illness, disability, and economic dependence. Programs were designed to help people who were unable to take care of their own needs. It was recognized that people with little or no income increasingly complex industrial societies were at risk of starvation or serious distress (Burger, 2014, p. 7). Human services are organized activities that help people in the areas of health care; mental health, including care for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities and the physically handicapped; social welfare; child care; criminal justice; housing; recreation; and education (Burger, 2014, p. 8). References Child Welfare Social Work Careers CareersInPsychology.org careersinpsychology.org/become-a-child-welfare-social-worker. What is child welfare social work? Childhood should be a happy time, filled with memories of warmth, love, and carefree times. Unfortunately, not every child is. Retrieved March 31, 2015 from http://www.bing.com/search?q=Child+Welfare+Social+Work+Careersqs=nform=QBLHpq=child+welfare+social+work+careerssc=0sp=1sk=cvid=d973557eab4640eb800fdf1ed3b9ee. Daulaire, N. (2012). The global health strategy of the department of health and human services: Building on the lessons of PEPFAR. Health Affairs, 31(7), 1573-7. Retrieved May 25, 2015 from http://search.proquest.com/docview/1027881787?accountid=39364.. Kiran, K. (2011). Child abuse and neglect. Journal of the Indian Society of Pedodontics and Preventive Dentistry, 29, 79-82. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4103/0970-4388.90749. Retrieved May 12, 2015 from http://search.proquest.com.proxycampuslibrary.rockies.edu/docview/915645247/62DE496DBE934DB3PQ/13?accountid=39364. Mathews, B. (2014). Mandatory reporting laws and identification of child abuse and neglect: Consideration of differential maltreatment types, and a cross-jurisdictional analysis of child sexual abuse reports. Social Sciences, 3(3), 460-482. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/socsci3030460. Retrieved May 12, 2015 from http://search.proquest.com.proxycampuslibrary.rockies.edu/docview/1615927520/62DE496DBE934DB. Mumpower, J. L. (2010). DISPROPORTIONALITY AT THE FRONT END OF THE CHILD WELFARE SERVICES SYSTEM: AN ANALYSIS OF RATES OF REFERRALS, HITS, MISSES, AND FALSE ALARMS. Journal of Health and Human Services Administration, 33(3), 364-405. Retrieved May 12, 2015 from http://search.proquest.com/docview/818931256?accountid=39364.3PQ/38?accountid=39364. Norman, R. E., Byambaa, M., De, R., Butchart, A., Scott, J., Vos, T. (2012). The long-term health consequences of child physical abuse, emotional abuse, and neglect: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS Medicine, 9(11), e1001349. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmed.1001349. Retrieved May 18, 2015 from http://search.proquest.com.proxycampuslibrary.rockies.edu/docview/1288095836/9B8C184D898A41CEPQ/9?accountid=39364. Norris-Tirrell, D. (2014). THE CHANGING ROLE OF PRIVATE, NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS IN THE DEVELOPMENT AND DELIVERY OF HUMAN SERVICES IN THE UNITED STATES. Journal of Health and Human Services Administration, 37(3), 304-326. Retrieved May 12, 2015 from http://search.proquest.com/docview/1644728239?accountid=39364. Norris-Tirrell, D. (2010). INTRODUCTION TO THE SYMPOSIUM: NONPROFIT ORGANIZATIONS AS KEY PARTNERS IN THE DEVELOPMENT, DELIVERY AND EVALUATION OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES. Journal of Health and Human Services Administration, 32(4), 374-9. Retrieved May 25, 2015 from http://search.proquest.com/docview/366286120?accountid=39364. Palinkas, L. A., Holloway, I. W., Rice, E., Fuentes, D., Wu, Q., Chamberlain, P. (2011). Social networks and implementation of evidence-based practices in public youth-serving systems: A mixed-methods study. Implementation Science, 6, 113. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/1748-5908-6-113. Retrieved May 25, 2015 from http://search.proquest.com.proxycampuslibrary.rockies.edu/docview/903976276/EFBF9FC159E247D5PQ/3?accountid=39364. Polinsky, M. L., Pion-Berlin, L., Williams, S., Long, T., Wolf, A. M. (2010). Preventing child abuse and neglect: A national evaluation of parent’s anonymous groups. Child Welfare, 89(6), 43-62. Retrieved May 12, 2015 from http://search.proquest.com/docview/865923677?accountid=39364. Raman, S., Maiese, M., Hurley, K., Greenfield, D. (2014). Addressing the clinical burden of child physical abuse and neglect in a large metropolitan region: Improving the evidence-base. Social Sciences, 3(4), 771-784. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/socsci3040771. Retrieved May 18, 2015 from http://search.proquest.com.proxycampuslibrary.rockies.edu/docview/1645151563/9B8C184D898A41CEPQ/40?accountid=39364. Rymph, C. E. (2012). From â€Å"Economic Want† to â€Å"Family Pathology†: Foster Family Care, the New Deal, and the Emergence of a Public Child Welfare System. Journal of Policy History, 24(1), 7-25. DOI: 10.1017/S0898030611000352. Retrieved June 1, 2015 from http://web.b.ebscohost.com.proxy-campuslibrary.rockies.edu/ehost/pdfviewer/[emailprotected]vid=19hid=101. Saini, M. A., Black, T., Fallon, B., Marshall, A. (2013). Child custody disputes within the context of child protection investigations: Secondary analysis of the Canadian incident study of reported child abuse and neglect. Child Welfare, 92(1), 115-37. Retrieved May 12, 2015 from http://search.proquest.com/docview/1509394874?accountid=39364. Strolin-Goltzman, J., Kollar, S., Trinkle, J. (2010). Listening to the voices of children in foster care: youths speak out about child welfare workforce turnover and selection. Social Work, 55(1), 47-53.Retrieved March 31, 2015 from http://web.b.ebscohost.com.proxycampuslibrary.rockies.edu/ehost/detail/detail?vid=4[emailprotected]hid=109bdata=JkF1dGhUeXBlPWlwLHVybCx1aWQmc2l0ZT1laG9zdC1saXZl#db=aphAN=47234130.

Her Family Seed :: Short Story Stories Farming Essays

Her Family Seed It is the dawn of summer; in a large open corn field, a tiny girl with skinny legs stands at the edge. Far from her, a giant tractor ravishes and cracks the earth. The sharp deadly blades cut deep. With each cut, a fresh color of the earth appears, much darker than the layer before. With each slash, the air fills with fresh earthy scents of dead-decayed corn plants. In another gash, another grasshopper flies into the air, away from danger. With each catastrophic advance, the tractor makes, a seed of corn is planted. In a similar way the tiny girl’s family seed is planted within her. Within the seed’s embryo lies her family history and individuality. At this tender age, community and family values are continually deposited on her without her realizing it. The seed is buried into a graveyard of corn plants; where she can’t see it, just as she does not feel her family seed being planted. Even worse, it was planted into a field of innocence, constantly haunted by desires to run around half-naked in the rain when the rains finally came and a ride on the tractor. She does not realize that her family depends on these corn fields for food. At nights, she sits by the open fire roasting corn with her many brothers. The tiny girl does not know that her many brothers are actually her cousins and sons of her mother’s friends. As there is plenty of corn, her mother provides a home for all her sons. The corn fields also provide food for her neighbors that do not have enough. Her neighbors, the Bulunga family, live in three beautiful stick and mud huts, with thatched roofs. Like a centripetal force, the corn fields pull together her sense of family. Her innocence nurtures the seed until it slowly crawls out and bursts into green. And grows. This is the story about the 'seedling hood' within her, a part of her childhood unearthed. Right now, standing here by the old thatched hut, she looks up and sees a carpet of green. Their corn plants. Like broken pieces of glass on a side walk, the droplets of dew on the leaves reflect early morning light. She picks up her hoe. With a single hand she places it on her tiny fragile shoulders.

Hershey’s Food Corporation: Erp Failure

REAL CASE STUDY I Hershey Foods Corporation: Failure and Success with Information Technology Point of View Managerial Point of View Objective To examine the reasons behind the SAP AG’S R/3 ERP implementation failure at Hershey’s Food Corporation Problem What could have done otherwise to avoid the SAP AG’S R/3 ERP implementation failure at Hershey’s Food Corporation? Areas of Consideration In late 1996, Hershey Foods Corporation the leading manufacturer of chocolates, confectionaries and beverages in United States of America began modernizing hardware and software systems in the company.In an attempt to manage Y2K issues, it chose to replace those systems and shift to client/server environment, which suggest that the company had pressing needs which forced the implementation. It was to switch over to the new ERP system by April 1999 as per original plan. It chose three software vendors – SAP, Manugistics, and Siebel for implementing different software modules. The com pany spent $112 million and 30 months on their ERP project. The project was running as per schedule till January 1999, and when it came to the final phase of the implementation, the company faltered.Time pressed, they went live in July 1999 which led the company experienced several problems pushing orders through the system, resulting in shipping delays and deliveries of incomplete orders. The retailers who ordered for Hershey's products could not get them on time, even though the company had ample supplies stocked at its warehouses. However, it was too late for Hershey to respond to this problem. As a result, Hershey's revenues dropped. Many reasons have been cited for the Hershey ERP failure. One, the project was originally scheduled to take four years, but the company forced the implementation to go live in just 30 months.Two, the company simultaneously implemented a customer-relations package and a logistics package, largely increasing the overall complexity and employee learnin g curve. Three, the company went live at their busiest time of the year, just before Halloween, and the resulting delays caused profits to fall. Though SAP was blamed for Hershey's disaster, the company's management viewed it differently. Hence, the top management of the company as well as industry analysts began looking at other reasons for the problems at Hershey.Alternative Courses of Action 1. Before opting to deploy a new ERP system, try to consider upgrading your old version of system rather than instantly launching for a new one. Before trying to replace those systems and shifting to new ones, try to know the factors affecting or contributing to success and failures that you might encounter along the implementation. Evaluate the needs first before making a decision. Also before opting to deploy a new system, try to stabilize first the phases of its implementation before going on live.Make sure that the old version of system is running standstill during the first phase of impl ementation of the new system. Lest the new system suddenly fall short, you still have the old version of system to back you up during mid-operations. 2. Never have multiple vendors within one project. ERP systems must be installed in a more staged manner, especially when applications from multiple vendors are involved. Roll out the modules in stages and don’t attempt to implement other applications simultaneously. 3. Choose the right time for implementation.Implementing it in a wrong time is a messed up. The company would have very well avoided this trouble if only they thought of going ahead with ERP during those occasions when the business process in the whole market experiences a slow movement. And never went to the extent of spending the whole time and efforts on implementing ERP. This will disrupt the normal functioning of the business and creates confusion in the company. Since attention was wholly diverted to ERP it was not possible to rectify the uncertainties that em erged in the business as a result of ERP. . Effective testing and scheduling. Effective testing in an ERP implementation can lessen exposure to failure risks and damages. Never opt to quicken the implementation process, where several modules are implemented simultaneously. The company must ensure that the system is fully tested and ready for implementation. If possible, plan the ERP project to go-live date during the company’s slow periods. Effective scheduling is important in ERP implementations because the process is lengthy, complicated and delays can increase large costs.However, management must review closely the need for extending the timeline to ensure success of the project. TOWS Threats ERP Implementation in Hershey Foods Corporation can be a difficult, time-consuming, and expensive project for the company. The technology is tightly integrated and requires a commitment from all division. It can take years to complete and cost risks. Moreover, there is no guarantee of the outcome. If not properly planned for, the investment may drive Hershey out of business. Opportunities Hershey made efforts to stabilize SAP and other systems. Hershey’s recent upgrade of its ERP system to R/3 version 4. was completed 20 percent under budget and without any of the order processing and product-shipment disruptions that marred the initial $112 million rollout in 1999. It was able to make more than 30 improvements to its core business processes within 60 days of going live.The company cited enhancements such as the automation of pick-list processing and materials management invoice verification, plus credit processing for distributors to military customers. These improvements have helped reduce costs and speed up processing times. It has also â€Å"achieved a near-zero-defect production environment† with R/3 4. and is using SAP’S business analysis tools to measure the impact of sales and marketing programs as they happen. Weakness Hershey would n’t specify whether the problems stemmed from its configuration of the system or the software itself. The top management of the company as well as industry analysts began looking at the reasons for the problems at Hershey. Though SAP was blamed for Hershey's disaster, the company's management viewed it differently: Hershey decided to take shortcuts since the project was originally scheduled to take four years, but the company forced the implementation to go live in just 30 months.Thus, Hershey’s experiences illustrate the fact that most troubled ERP rollouts are caused by project management issues, not faulty software. Strengths By experiencing this kind of failures Hershey Foods Corporation’s IT Staff was able to exceed its delivery commitments for the project because of strong program management and executive leadership, diligent planning and an extensive testing and training plan. This time the implementation underwent extensive testing. Hershey made sure to take the time and resources to thoroughly test the computer systems.Conclusion Consider alternative course of action no. 1 Failures in major business/IT projects continue to occur to large companies like Hershey Foods Corporation with so much IT expertise and financial resources. These mistakes cost the price in the long run. Hershey has learned valuable lessons from their SAP implementation and these lessons are to move slower and be more methodical. The lessons learnt can as well serve as indication for failure or bankruptcy by driving you out of the business path.Hershey’s failure should caution any company that chooses to implement such broad application and make sure that system will function smoothly before entering peak sales period. There is one final aspect to be considered in any degree of project failure. All success is rooted in either luck or failure. If you begin with luck, you learn nothing but arrogance. However, if you begin with failure and learn to evaluate it, you also learn to succeed. Failure begets knowledge. Out of knowledge you gain wisdom, and it is with wisdom that you can become truly successful.Recommendation Before committing to a specific ERP software package, companies like Hershey Foods Corporation need to take the time to evaluate their ERP needs. They need to define in advance: 1. How they want to run their business? 2. What problems need to be resolved? 3. What are their priorities? 4. What are the current processes – what works and what doesn’t in the implementation plan? 5. What software will best resolve their problems, meet their goals and priorities?

Inspiration of the Bible

Divine inspiration of Bible, its significance is taken out for one of the most important reasons is the usage of Bible inspiration as an important element in the Scripture. It develop together all the accounts of Scripture and provides the most with value. The notion of the disputes according the Scripture point and inspiration case is carried throughout Orton Wiley's Christian Theology. Wiley entered the dispute pretending to show the false meaning of the Bible . He clearly stated that â€Å"only three worthy monarchs, the kings have gathered a faith in their hands. It means that, they forced our Faith and put it into a false and unworthy position before God and man. † (Wiley, 6). He put the strong critique and abuse towards the Church's prerogatives: â€Å"The Reformers themselves have fought earnestly to maintain the balance between the formal and the material rules of every day life. At the end the formal principal has superseded the material, so people began unconsciously to substitute the written, God-breathed Word for Christ by the Living Word. They have divorced the written word from the Personal God's Word and thus were put into a false position. It was no longer the guidance from God, his speech, the Spirit's presence, but just a recorded speech which bound men by legal rather than spiritual bonds. Nowadays people knowledge became formal rather than spiritual. The understanding of God became less true and real. It is not a consequence that Christ appeared to them as a historical figure, but not a Living Reality; and people sought more for a Knowledge of God's will than for God Himself. They gave more attention to creeds than to Christ. † (Wiley 2). This paper is purposed discuss the importance of inspiration and the Bible as the God-breathed word. One of the most specific attentions in inspiration doctrine is paid to the content of the person's doctrine of Scripture. It indicates the divine activity bringing scripture to the real life. Generally the doctrine of inspiration shows us the role of God in the life process. Secondly the idea of inspiration stresses on the place where everyone stands in the whole critical enterprise. Nowadays it has become one of the most disputable topics of the modern theological field. The core point to disputes lays in the way to find out which doctrine has been used recently in the biblical researches. The objective of this work is to explore the inspiration theory's development and the position of the major part of modern theologians who support the Methodist tradition. Current field of study claims for more research and investigation to be done in the future. At beginning of the century an inspiration tradition experienced the powerful pressure from the side of different religious confessions. (Wiley 6) At those times it was difficult to find anyone who was willing to express their feelings combining a comprehensive and right account of inspiration. So there was a fruitful field for appearing the rival knowledge of doctrines related to inspiration theme and their development. In the early years of the twentieth century this tandem was replaced by pluralism and this fact was confirmed within the United Methodist Church of America. Olin Curtis (1850-1918) and Henry Sheldon (1845 – 1928) have brought us the blowing wind of changes. According to Dr. Curtis studying the special revelation as the very essence of the Christian faith helps us to recognize the traditional, rather apologetic claims for miracle. Here is a guarantee that revelation was inadequate as has been developed by his forebears. Dr, Curtis claims â€Å"the miracles are not created by a judicious defense or supernatural activity, he stresses that they are the acts of God, performed in his extraordinary way. The inspiration knowledge by Curtis seems to be a dynamic and essential system, which exists in the peace and consequence with God illuminating his inner life and acting vitally for Christian brotherhood and love. Dr. Curtis rejects the necessity of inerrant Bible implementing. (Curtis 177). In order to go through our investigation completely and to reach the target we need to answer the question: â€Å"What, actually, do we mean, by the inspiration? † The word inspiration firstly appeared in usage in Timothy 3:16, where we can read: â€Å"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness† (Henry 129). Following the word's etymology , we can assume that â€Å"inspired† is translated from the Greek as theopnuestos that means â€Å"God-breathed†. Some of translations give us the samples which could be adopted as â€Å"ex-spired† or â€Å"breathed out†. Looking through the Biblical sense of inspiration the firstly comes the idea that writers created exactly the things need to be written for God. This idea is supported in Peter 1: 20-21, where it is clearly stated that â€Å"no prophecy of Scripture is a matter of one's own interpretation, for no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will. Well known theologian Carl Henry gives the work definition to inspiration as â€Å"a supernatural influence upon the divinely chosen prophets and apostles. So, the Spirit of God assures the truth and trustworthiness of their verbal and written proclamation†. According to his definition the writers who created the manuscripts were divinely â€Å"supervised† by the Holy Spirit choosing the necessary words and phrases used in their works. Although some places were totally dictated to writers, Finally the process of inspiration has been spread to every word of every known book and of the Bible, as the main source of people's knowledge. Jesus opened this destiny to us, stating that inspiration is extended to the very words (Matt. 5:18). Following the discussion presented by Paul Merritt Bassett in his case study it is necessary to admit that Orton Wiley (our main opponent for current paper) shows us no slight doubt about the Bible as the primary source of Christian theology. He stated that â€Å"the Holy Scriptures constitute the quarry out of which are mined the glorious truths utilized in constructing the edifice of Christian doctrine† (Wiley 89). At the same time he has expressed some sort of ambiguity here because he told that â€Å"in a deeper sense, Jesus Christ, our Lord is Himself the fullest revelation of God. He is the Word of God-the outlived and outspoken thought of the Eternal. While we honor the Scriptures in giving them a place as our primary source.. Christ, must ever be held in proper relation to the Bible, the written Word. If the letter would be vital and dynamic, we must through the Holy Spirit, be ever attuned to that living One whose matchless words, incomparable deeds, and vicarious death constitute the great theme of that Book of books† (Wiley 90). Following our dispute I need to stress that even from the historical point of view the first place in the analysis of inspiration's doctrine belongs to Bible. Scripture has its important place in the investigation but before turning to Scripture it will be a right thing to do to look to the institute of church throughout the history. From this point of view the understanding of liberal scholars will be easier and we will receive the opportunity to see whose position is in going with our opponents in the faith. Until the 19th century the church, as the essential institute, traditionally held the principals of inspiration of Scripture. Dr. Warfield, the famous theologian, said that â€Å"Christendom has always reposed upon the belief that the utterances of this book are properly oracles of God† (Warfield 141). In the 16th century the great reformers Martin Luther and John Calvin expressed their recognition of the divine source and authority of Scripture. The importance of inspiration is expressed in 2 Timothy 3:17. It says that all Scripture is God-breathed, so there is no place for error in it. In 2 Timothy 3 Paul also states about the importance of protection against the false teaching, the apostasy. To be firm in the truth of our faith and in Christ we should obtain the firm basis, because there are many people who are opposed to truth, â€Å"the evil men and impostors will proceed from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived† (v. 13). All Christians â€Å"who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will be persecuted† (v. 2). The Bible as the faith foundation cannot contain any errors. The entire Bible as a God-breathed book teaches us â€Å"correct, reprove, and train in righteousness†. So following the Bible we are adequate, and equipped for every good work. From the very beginning the Christian Church led us to the doctrine of verbal, plenary inspiration. People who denied the fact that the Bible reflects the true word of God had no basis, no additional foundation un derneath their faith. The Bible is the standard to judge us and our activity and we are not the judges of Bible at any times. Summarizing the ideas it is necessary to admit that the people who read the Bible are led by Holy Spirit, who confirmed to every single person that the Bible is the inerrant word of God, the message from Him. One of the strongest evidences of the Bible as the God's word is the Book survival and influence during the last two centuries while all the multiplied attempts to destroy it have failed. The proclamations of Scripture are approved by our life experience, for example, the practical changes in the life of societies and individuals are evidential and true. The testimonial character of Scripture has found the confirmation in many areas and fields of the modern life. Even despite all these obvious evidences we have described above, if we were are not able to prove the inspiration of the Bible to anyone and to bring any serious foundation underneath our faith, we still can share its message, answer questions, help people to open their minds and hearts. Works cited: 1. Bernard, Ramm, Protestant Christian Evidences. Chicago: Moody Press, 1953, esp. chaps. 8 and 9. 2. Curtis, Olin. The Christian Faith. Boston and New York: Houghton Mifflin Co. , 1909, p. 177. 3. Henry, Carl. God, Revelation and Authority, vol. 4, The God Who Speaks and Shows. Waco, TX: Word Books, 1979, 129. 4. Warfield, God, Revelation and Authority, New York: Eaton and Mains, 1999), 4:141. 5. Wiley, Orton. Introduction to Christian Theology. Kansas City: Beacon Hill, n. d. 1929

5 Assorted Usage Errors

5 Assorted Usage Errors 5 Assorted Usage Errors 5 Assorted Usage Errors By Mark Nichol Using the right word for the job, or considering whether a word is needed at all, distinguishes careful writing from careless writing. Discussion and revision of the following sentences illustrate various ways in which writing can be improved by word-by-word attention to detail. 1. Here’s a list of several webinars that we have hosted that we think you may be interested in. The conjunction that is often optional in a sentence, but when it appears twice in a sentence, omit at least one expendable instance: â€Å"Here’s a list of several webinars we have hosted that we think you may be interested in† (or â€Å"Here’s a list of several webinars we have hosted we think you may be interested in†). 2. Smith snapped back in a rare display of emotion during an otherwise unflappable matter-a-fact testimony. Venerable idiomatic phrases a writer may have heard spoken but not seen written out may be misheard or misremembered and subsequently erroneously recorded, so always double-check the exact wording of such phrases: â€Å"Smith snapped back in a rare display of emotion during an otherwise unflappable matter-of-fact testimony.† 3. Jones’s teammates stressed how little he stresses in the postseason. Stress is often used as a synonym for emphasize, but it is better to employ it only to refer to physical or mental pressure, and emphasize is especially preferable if, distractingly, both senses of stress are used in the same sentence: â€Å"Jones’s teammates emphasized how little he stresses in the postseason.† 4. He’ll make his first scheduled public remarks at the state convention, where he is expected to address his future plans. Plans are, at least in the context of this sentence, something pertaining to the future, so future is redundant here: â€Å"He’ll make his first scheduled public remarks at the state convention, where he is expected to address his plans.† Always scan your writing to delete such extraneous wording. (See this DailyWritingTips.com post and this one for more examples.) 5. Depressed labor markets incent people to monetize their possessions, time, and talents in whatever ways they can. This sentence is a matter of aesthetic consideration rather than error, but avoid using neologisms when perfectly adequate (and often superior) antecedents exist: â€Å"Depressed labor markets incentivize [or â€Å"motivate†] people to monetize their possessions, time, and talents in whatever ways they can.† Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Usage Review category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:Definitely use "the" or "a"Precedent vs. PrecedenceParticular vs. Specific

Review of …So Goes the Nation movie

Review of †¦So Goes the Nation movie Introduction †¦So Goes the Nation is a political documentary that focuses on the US political processes. It specifically follows the 2004 presidential elections between President George W. Bush and John Kerry. The events that are described in the movie are set in Ohio State that became the political battlefield for the two candidates in their race for the United States presidential seat.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Review of â€Å"†¦So Goes the Nation† movie specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More It covers the last events of the Ohio presidential campaign. The movie shows how workers, representatives for both parties, Democrats and Republicans, arrived in Ohio from all over the country to support their parties at the climax of the 2004 elections. The movie demonstrates how one can win or lose an election by following or not following certain political concepts (†¦So Goes the Nation 2006). Politica l activism played a key role in deciding the winning candidate. President George W. Bush charisma and his strong campaign strategy helped him get enough votes from Ohio voters that enabled him to win a hotly contested presidential race (Bond and Smith 182). This piece of writing presents a review of †¦So Goes the Nation film. It explains political events that took place in Ohio before 2004 presidential elections. Moreover, it describes political science concepts such as democracy, political freedom, majority rule and political activism incorporated in the movie (Bond and Smith 380). This work concludes with my opinion on the movie and how it relates to my understanding of politics. Synopsis of the Plot and Main Characters The political campaign climax for 2004 US presidential elections took place in Ohio State. George W. Bush and his opponent John Kerry realized that Ohio was a neutral State that had a potential to influence the decision of people and define the nation’s president for the next four years. Therefore, the two parties committed their time and resources to convince voters to vote for them. However, both political leaders and voters had a fear that the controversies of 2000 elections would be repeated. Many people suspected that voter fraud, destruction of ballot boxes, and interference of registration rolls could take place (Bond and Smith 302). This made the filmmakers, Stern and Del Deo, to camp at Ohio with their cameras to capture the final events before the Election Day. As a result, †¦So Goes the Nation covers the campaign workers for the Democrats and Republicans as they strived to swing votes in their favor. It examines the possibilities of the behind-the-scene workers interfering with the elections.Advertising Looking for essay on art and design? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More However, its main focus is on the campaign styles the contestants made use of. Furthermore, it shows how their unseen campaign staff played their cards to convince voters to give their voices in favor of their candidates (Bond and Smith 210). John Kerry focused on domestic issues such as health, homosexuality and abortion, security, and economics, while Bush focused on national security and criticized Kerry’s un-seriousness in regards to security issues based on his record in Vietnam (†¦So Goes the Nation 2006). It was easy for Kerry to win because everything was in his favor, right from opinion polls to popularity of his political figure. However, when the voting day arrived, surprising trends took place that inclined the voters in favor of the unpopular, but charismatic George Bush. Aspects of the Movie and Political Concepts Stern and Del Deo documentary †¦So Goes the Nation examines the 2004 US elections through microscopic lenses and tries to discuss what went right and wrong for Bush and Kerry. Both candidates focused their campaigns on Ohio because they believed that it would be the deciding State in their final campaign (Bond and Smith 67). The film captures all the events, both small and big, that occurred during the election period. Moreover, it examines voters and their determination and excitement to elect their president. It takes the viewpoint of behind-the-scene campaigners who sought to persuade voters to vote for their candidate (†¦So Goes the Nation 2006). The majority of the Americans took keen interest in the 2004 elections. However, large numbers included those who seemed to be fed-up with George Bush administration because they felt that his governance was more of corporate than public interest. The film captures campaign events several months before the actual Election Day. Political activism is revealed as activists go door-to-door and make phone calls to make sure that their candidate becomes victorious (†¦So Goes the Nation 2006). These efforts explicitly demonstrate the extent to whic h individuals can go to ensure that their candidate wins the election. This shows political freedom in a democratic government.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Review of â€Å"†¦So Goes the Nation† movie specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Grassroots politics is paid a great attention in the film, however, it also detail the efforts made by political strategists and campaign managers of each candidate. Campaign managers and political strategists worked behind-the-scenes and they did a lot in selling their candidate to the public. The movie explains how John Kerry lost an election, despite being the most favorite candidate. It shows what role the techniques of political persuasion, advertisements and speeches play in determining how a political race will turn out. Moreover, it shows how effective and persistent marketing is, and how the situation can influence the public (Bond and Smith 102). Concepts of pol itical clarity and confusion are portrayed. Republican volunteers seemed to be consistent as they conducted actual door-to-door search for votes while the Democrats seemed confused and unprepared (Bond and Smith 160). Kerry’s campaign groups concentrated on the city votes and forgot about rural votes, which the Republicans capitalized on. Smart Republican campaigners did not depend on the swing vote, but recognized Ohio State that upholds Christian principles. Therefore, they campaigned against social issues of homosexuality and abortion supported by the Democrats. This made Christians in Ohio to cross party lines and vote for the Republican candidate. An interview with a Democrat supporter who finally voted for George Bush shows political freedom that voters enjoy in the democratic America. In a nutshell, the movie examines the 2004 US presidential elections, general public (voters), and the voting process (Bond and Smith 102). Bond, Jon R. and Kevin Smith. The Promise and Performance of American Democracy. 10th ed. Belmont, CA: Thomson Wadsworth, 2011. Print. †¦So Goes the Nation. Dir. Stern, James D., and Adam Del Deo. Perf. Paul Begala, Mary Beth Cahill, Thomas (Tad) Devine, Terry McAuliffe, and Matthew Dowd. IFC Films, 2006. DVD.Advertising Looking for essay on art and design? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More

Basketball Coaching

Coaches have to love the game. The team reflects the coach, if he’s successful so will you be. The coach needs to be disciplined and teach the fundamentals of the game. They should instill moral values into the team. Basic basketball will make the team better. Basic basketball includes ball handling, proper form, offense, and etc. It may seem boring and stupid but it really makes you a better team and player. Players want a coach who will teach them the game. If the coach is a stickler for defense, your team can beat anyone. The fundamentals of defense can make a good team great and lower tier teams competitive. The defense will lead to offense and things will come easier for your team. Once you’ve mastered the basics the goals that have been set for the team will seem reachable and easier. The confidence of the team will sky rocket and results will follow. â€Å"I teach the kids every aspect of the game and the basics that will make them successful,† said Coach Mike. Your coach needs to be dedicated and love the game. â€Å"I’m a gym rat, I’ll do anything to get into the gym and help the girls,† continued Coach Mike. You need to make touch decisions and sacrifices to be successful. Nothing comes easily especially in this profession. You have to outwork your opposition and be prepared. Being in the gym and loving the game gives you many advantages over other coaches. Being around the game teaches you more and makes you aware of every situation. Yelling isn’t the only way to motivate players. There are many other ways to do so. Sometimes yelling may do more harm than good and hurt the teams psyche. Players will start to resent the coach and start to distance themselves. Once the morale and confidence is broken down the team will start to suffer the consequences. There are certain times when yelling is appropriate but it shouldn’t be used all the time and coaches should never single players out in front of the entire team. The coach should yell for a purpose, but also bring your confidence up at the same time and encourage you to do better. There shouldn’t be false hope put into player’s heads because of the coach’s ego. Players would start to lose respect for him. They really listen to what the coaches have to tell them and take it to heart. It really means a lot to them what you tell them. One of the reasons John Wooden was successful as a basketball coach was because he was the best teacher at the sport and taught his players life skills. He didn’t win ten national championships because he had talent. He won because he taught fundamentals and basic basketball. He instilled in his players that fundamentals is the key to success. To this day his players still use what he taught them and take that with them as they move on with their lives. He was a coach and a father to the players. He always compared how life was like basketball and the players understood what he meant. John Wooden made the Pyramid of Success. The Pyramid of Success consists of twenty-five behaviors that Wooden felt you needed to be successful in not only basketball, but also in life. The top two behaviors are faith and patience. He followed those behaviors and taught his players those behaviors until his dying days. Phil Jackson is also another great coach. He is unique just like John Wooden. They never felt the need to yell. Jackson is the Zen Master and isn’t a yeller. He’s unique because unlike most coaches he trusts his team and lets them play instead of calling timeouts when his team gets into ruts. Most coaches would be infuriated and quickly call a timeout but not him. He sits back and lets them play through difficult periods. He doesn’t coach every player the same and understands the needs of what each player needs to succeed. Jackson knows his players and all their strengths and weaknesses. Another wonderful thing is he taught the two best players the game has ever had to offer: Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, that playing within the concept of the team is the only way to win. An excellent leader leads to an excellent coach. With the confidence and swagger that they have to offer it rubs off on the team. The team needs someone to follow and look up to. Players have to respect the coach. Respect is a major aspect of the game. The team should want to live and die by the coach. Conducting a great practice is a great aspect of any coach. Practice should be conducted with the needs of the team and show progress throughout the year. It is a way for coaches to see what you can bring to the team. Practice makes perfect and for every coach they live and die by that saying. All in all the coach is the catalyst to the team. They are everything to the team and the team thrives off their energy. The personality of the team reflects the coach. Coaches that drill the basics and fundamentals into the team are very successful. The team will succeed as a whole and improve as the season moves along. Basketball Coaching Coaches have to love the game. The team reflects the coach, if he’s successful so will you be. The coach needs to be disciplined and teach the fundamentals of the game. They should instill moral values into the team. Basic basketball will make the team better. Basic basketball includes ball handling, proper form, offense, and etc. It may seem boring and stupid but it really makes you a better team and player. Players want a coach who will teach them the game. If the coach is a stickler for defense, your team can beat anyone. The fundamentals of defense can make a good team great and lower tier teams competitive. The defense will lead to offense and things will come easier for your team. Once you’ve mastered the basics the goals that have been set for the team will seem reachable and easier. The confidence of the team will sky rocket and results will follow. â€Å"I teach the kids every aspect of the game and the basics that will make them successful,† said Coach Mike. Your coach needs to be dedicated and love the game. â€Å"I’m a gym rat, I’ll do anything to get into the gym and help the girls,† continued Coach Mike. You need to make touch decisions and sacrifices to be successful. Nothing comes easily especially in this profession. You have to outwork your opposition and be prepared. Being in the gym and loving the game gives you many advantages over other coaches. Being around the game teaches you more and makes you aware of every situation. Yelling isn’t the only way to motivate players. There are many other ways to do so. Sometimes yelling may do more harm than good and hurt the teams psyche. Players will start to resent the coach and start to distance themselves. Once the morale and confidence is broken down the team will start to suffer the consequences. There are certain times when yelling is appropriate but it shouldn’t be used all the time and coaches should never single players out in front of the entire team. The coach should yell for a purpose, but also bring your confidence up at the same time and encourage you to do better. There shouldn’t be false hope put into player’s heads because of the coach’s ego. Players would start to lose respect for him. They really listen to what the coaches have to tell them and take it to heart. It really means a lot to them what you tell them. One of the reasons John Wooden was successful as a basketball coach was because he was the best teacher at the sport and taught his players life skills. He didn’t win ten national championships because he had talent. He won because he taught fundamentals and basic basketball. He instilled in his players that fundamentals is the key to success. To this day his players still use what he taught them and take that with them as they move on with their lives. He was a coach and a father to the players. He always compared how life was like basketball and the players understood what he meant. John Wooden made the Pyramid of Success. The Pyramid of Success consists of twenty-five behaviors that Wooden felt you needed to be successful in not only basketball, but also in life. The top two behaviors are faith and patience. He followed those behaviors and taught his players those behaviors until his dying days. Phil Jackson is also another great coach. He is unique just like John Wooden. They never felt the need to yell. Jackson is the Zen Master and isn’t a yeller. He’s unique because unlike most coaches he trusts his team and lets them play instead of calling timeouts when his team gets into ruts. Most coaches would be infuriated and quickly call a timeout but not him. He sits back and lets them play through difficult periods. He doesn’t coach every player the same and understands the needs of what each player needs to succeed. Jackson knows his players and all their strengths and weaknesses. Another wonderful thing is he taught the two best players the game has ever had to offer: Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, that playing within the concept of the team is the only way to win. An excellent leader leads to an excellent coach. With the confidence and swagger that they have to offer it rubs off on the team. The team needs someone to follow and look up to. Players have to respect the coach. Respect is a major aspect of the game. The team should want to live and die by the coach. Conducting a great practice is a great aspect of any coach. Practice should be conducted with the needs of the team and show progress throughout the year. It is a way for coaches to see what you can bring to the team. Practice makes perfect and for every coach they live and die by that saying. All in all the coach is the catalyst to the team. They are everything to the team and the team thrives off their energy. The personality of the team reflects the coach. Coaches that drill the basics and fundamentals into the team are very successful. The team will succeed as a whole and improve as the season moves along.

UK Government in Encouraging Sustainability in Businesses Essay

UK Government in Encouraging Sustainability in Businesses - Essay Example This essay stresses that  the concept of sustainability first became prominent with the publication of the Bruntland Report in 1987. The report defines sustainability as â€Å"meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs†.From this paper it is clear that  the concept of sustainability has evolved overtime since it was first defined. In earlier days, it was mainly an operational concern that focused on defensive strategies to cut waste and reduce organizational footprint. It then evolved and took a more strategic stance with focus shifting to value chains and innovation from waste and cost reduction. Right now, the concept pervades all organizational decision making.  This trend clearly shows a move towards rendering the term sustainability in business redundant as it will simply be how business is done. However in the present, businesses are consciously incorporating sustainability into their business decisions.   Most businesses express their sustainability goals through corporate social responsibility (CSR) commitments. CSR within an organisation is often composed of practises, policies and programs that are integrated throughout the business’s operations from decision making, processes to supply chain, which aim at ensuring current sustainable business operations taking into consideration future impacts.  Governments around the globe have increasingly grown aware of the significance of encouraging sustainability in businesses.... hows that many organizations are actively integrating and incorporating sustainability principles into their business operations, and the reasons behind this go far beyond reputation management. A sustainable business hence genuinely delivers environmental, economic and social benefits simultaneously in its operations while minimising the damage to society and the environment (Nidumolu, Prahalad, and Rangaswami, 2009:1). Most businesses express their sustainability goals through corporate social responsibility (CSR) commitments. CSR within an organisation is often composed of practises, policies and programs that are integrated throughout the business’s operations from decision making, processes to supply chain, which aim at ensuring current sustainable business operations taking into consideration future impacts (Petrini and Pozzebon, 2010: 364; Baumgartner and Ebner, 2010:77). Companies are increasingly inclined to incorporate society’s expectations of ethical busines s practices into their business strategies as a way of not only responding to pressures from stakeholders such as employees and consumers among others, but also exploring opportunities that create competitive advantage for the company. Assessment of the role of UK government in encouraging sustainability in businesses as compared to other stakeholders Governments around the globe have increasingly grown aware of the significance of encouraging sustainability in businesses. In the UK, the government has played a critical role in encouraging sustainability in businesses. The government’s role in sustainability adoption often takes a regulatory approach. This is unlike other stakeholders of an organisation which have different key roles to play in encouraging sustainability, for instance, employees

Posing a problematic question Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Posing a problematic question - Essay Example Putting up a home requires flat and leveled ground. According to the picture, the area in question does not hold this characteristic as it is on a steep area hence making it not suitable for human habitation. Other details in the picture are controversial to these assumptions. The leaves could indicate the possibility of trees growing in the area. Another feature is the landscape that is steep in nature. Trees and steep landscape are usually associated with high rainfall that is essential for human existence. The boy in the picture shows human existence in the area despite the harsh conditions surrounding the boy. The boys’ good health demonstrates that there could be possible measures put in place rendering the area harmless by use of mosquito nets to prevent malaria (Oberlender 10). The area in question has more advantages for human habitation than hindrances. In conclusion, we see that with intervention, this area is able to support conditions required for good and healthy living

Macro Project Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Macro Project - Assignment Example Attributed to their low population, the two countries have achieved one of the highest employment rates in the world. As the statistics have it, the two countries have achieved above 90% employment rate and hence the economy grows rapidly. The rate of inflation in the two countries is very low, though some disparities are clear. When it comes to exports, the two countries export petroleum products as their principle source of foreign exchange. However, Qatar exports fertilizers and raw aluminum while Kuwait exports cement and ships. Their chief imports include cars, jewelry and aircraft; and food, construction material and vehicles for Qatar and Kuwait respectively. Qatar has favorable balance of trade as the difference between the export and import is very high. This means that the currency in Qatar is very strong against that of the trading partners. This implies that the country earn a lot in terms of foreign exchange. As such, it is important for the country to maintain its export at a higher level as it directly impacts its economic growth. Other significance of a higher net export is that the country will have better terms of international trade and higher bargaining power in international trade and other affairs, Hightower

See Description Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

See Description - Research Paper Example The paper would be critically looking at the ‘Child Protection Agency’ to find how successful it has been in tackling the challenges of the time. The welfare of the children has long been considered as the sole concern of the parents and the family with little intervention from the government. In the olden times, the corporal punishment inflicted on children was taken as justified actions of the father or parents and there was huge exploitation of children in the cases of inheritance, property cases and custodian rights. In the later 19th century, the English Common Law was introduced to include the inheritance and property cases and later expanded to take into account the wider interests of the children through Custody of Infants Act. The American colonies of 18th century followed the English Laws and especially emphasized two aspects of children related policies: ‘the common law rules of family government; and the traditions and child-care practices of the Elizabethan Poor Laws of 1601’ (Thomas, p. 299). In 1875, Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (SPCC) was founded in New York. It was dominated by the white population and targeted black families that resulted in huge number of black children separated from their family. In 1909, the White House acknowledged that ‘home life is the highest and finest product of civilization. It is the great molding force of mind and of character’(Tanenhaus, p. 550). Thus, the 20th century say dramatic shift in the outlook of children’s protection that was shifted from the family and private child protection services to government sponsored agencies with tremendous changes in the overall perspective to the children’s welfare. In 1912, Children’s Bureau was established to manage children’s welfare of the federal government. Social Security Act in 1958 made it a state subject and mandated funding of the child protection efforts

Corporate governance and ethical decision ion making Essay

Corporate governance and ethical decision ion making - Essay Example The board of directors, as the top management team, therefore plays a major role in defining a company’s corporate governance as well as the governance’s effectiveness in achieving the company’s objectives. Subject to legal provisions and a company’s memorandum, the directors guide their organizations through offering directives as the top managerial decision making organ. Simpler forms of businesses such as partnerships or limited liability partnerships and companies may have their top management roles vested in teams or persons (Kazmi, 2008). The roles and responsibilities of an organization’s top management centers on making macro organizational decisions that are then passed to line managers for implementation. One of the roles of the top management is developing an organization’s missions and values that define the organization’s overall direction. The management also determines major strategies to be adopted and lays down operational plans. Similarly, the top management acts as a supervisory body to â€Å"monitor and control† the organization’s managers and other officers besides evaluating the organization’s position and making recommendations to owners and other stakeholders (Kazmi, 2008, p. 398). In a small laundry repair business where a father is the technician and his son is the administrator, the son assumes top management responsibilities to make strategic decisions, communicate the decisions, and supervise the father and other employees, and report recommendations to the stakeholders (Kazmi, 2008). An organization’s top management, whether board of directors or individuals, are in their roles faced with social responsibility, which is the moral obligation to maximize benefits of all stakeholders to a strategic decision. The management’s decision should therefore consider possible adverse â€Å"economic, legal,

Report Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 1

Report - Essay Example There are recent examples of this mass socio-cultural shift: the arrest of the renowned â€Å"Queen of the Pacific,† Mexican drug lord Sandra Avila Beltran, and the portrayal of a brutal female drug kingpin by Salma Hayek in the soon-to-be-released Oliver Stone film Savages. Despite the unquestionably heavy feminine presence in the drug trade, the historically macho world of drug smuggling can still be said to have victimized women. Women, particularly in Latin American countries, have come to identify equality with access to commercial opportunity in the most lucrative business venture available to them: the drug trade. In this way, in their struggle for gender parity, women have wittingly become part of the same destructive cycle with which men have typically been associated. This may, in part, be driven by persistently high rates of violence against women in Latin America, with women seeking a measure of control amid the carnage (see graph, page 6). By asserting their femin inity, some achieve power but compromise their moral existence in what can best be characterized as a devil’s bargain. ... While this may once have been true, the burgeoning drug trade has carried women to power and international infamy on a scale heretofore unknown and unanticipated by many for whom females have always been the prototypical victims of the drug trade and the collateral damage it creates. New lifestyle, new opportunity This is not to argue that countless women are not thus victimized. But their increasing presence at the highest levels of some of the most powerful drug organizations indicates that women are susceptible to the same economic and psychological motivations that have previously been ascribed to men only. In his widely cited anthropological study of the Mexican drug trade, Hugh Campbell has ascertained that female drug smugglers enjoy â€Å"a pleasurable lifestyle and relative autonomy from men,† aggrandizing their power in the same violent and ruthless ways as men. Campbell examines a female subject he identifies as Zulema, whose pursuit of the high-risk, high-return li festyle is typical of the new breed of women in the trade. â€Å"Contrary to standard interpretations of women’s motivation for entry into drug smuggling, Zulema was initially attracted to crime, including drug-selling, by the opportunity it presented for adventure and revolt against bourgeois lifestyles† (antropologi, 2008). Such women have done more than simply reject poverty and a non-descript lifestyle; they seek the â€Å"high† that comes from a powerful adrenaline rush. There is an element of glamour to the drug underworld, and in a sense women have long been a part of the image it projects in mass culture. There is a long association between beauty and illicit activity. During Prohibition, bootleggers were famous for showing off beautiful female

Corporate governance and ethical decision ion making Essay

Corporate governance and ethical decision ion making - Essay Example The board of directors, as the top management team, therefore plays a major role in defining a company’s corporate governance as well as the governance’s effectiveness in achieving the company’s objectives. Subject to legal provisions and a company’s memorandum, the directors guide their organizations through offering directives as the top managerial decision making organ. Simpler forms of businesses such as partnerships or limited liability partnerships and companies may have their top management roles vested in teams or persons (Kazmi, 2008). The roles and responsibilities of an organization’s top management centers on making macro organizational decisions that are then passed to line managers for implementation. One of the roles of the top management is developing an organization’s missions and values that define the organization’s overall direction. The management also determines major strategies to be adopted and lays down operational plans. Similarly, the top management acts as a supervisory body to â€Å"monitor and control† the organization’s managers and other officers besides evaluating the organization’s position and making recommendations to owners and other stakeholders (Kazmi, 2008, p. 398). In a small laundry repair business where a father is the technician and his son is the administrator, the son assumes top management responsibilities to make strategic decisions, communicate the decisions, and supervise the father and other employees, and report recommendations to the stakeholders (Kazmi, 2008). An organization’s top management, whether board of directors or individuals, are in their roles faced with social responsibility, which is the moral obligation to maximize benefits of all stakeholders to a strategic decision. The management’s decision should therefore consider possible adverse â€Å"economic, legal,

Arming Pilots Essay Example for Free

Arming Pilots Essay After the September 11th attacks on America’s homeland, citizens became aware that action must be taken to protect passengers and pilots from terrorists. Although strict security measures have been put in place at all American airports, the only way to be certain that another terrorist attack does not occur using commercial aircraft lies in arming pilots with handguns. Not only will arming pilots help act as a preventative measure, it will ensure safer air travel and restore faith in America’s main form of long distance travel. Even though the number of hijackings is minuscule compared to the number of flights, arming pilots would be a first line of deterrence and a last line of defense. Some people may argue that other means should be used to stop hijackers, but as is the case with any illegal activity, if a person wants to commit a crime they will find the means. Therefore, the only way to prevent aircraft hijackings is with the use of guns. One alternative way that has been suggested is arming pilots with tasers, electric shock probes. These are considered problematic by many experts and do not guarantee bringing down a hijacker. As Criminal Justice expert Michael Swedemen said, â€Å"Had the pilots on the ill-fated planes on September 11th had stun guns, they might have dropped one of the hijackers, but the remaining three or four still would have overpowered the plane† (Dougherty, 2002, January 22). Arming pilots would also aid airlines in recovering from the economic downfall that has plagued the industry since the attacks. With armed pilots, passengers would know they are safe from any possibility of a hijacking and the only thing that might cause catastrophic damage would be an unforeseen mechanical problem. Should hijackers be among the passengers they could easily be brought down with guns similar to that of a defiant criminal. Opponents have argued that a stray bullet might penetrate the fuselage or inadvertently hit an innocent passenger. The Air Line Pilot’s Association has called for arming pilots using special ammunition that can kill an attacker but not pierce the fuselage (Dougherty, 2002, January 22). Hitting an innocent passenger is a risk that must be taken. One innocent life lost is far better than the possible countless losses on the hijacked aircraft and immanent destruction resulting on the ground. If passengers know that hijackers cannot take control of the plane, millions of Americans would once again begin flying which would improve economic conditions in a hurting industry. Other questions lie in the ability and mental state of a pilot to carry weapons. Senator Bob Smith (R-N. H. said, â€Å"Commercial pilots are trusted with the lives of thousands of Americans every day, and with proper training they could †¦ protect our skies from future acts of terrorism† (Dougherty, 2002, March 19). Pilots are some of the most mentally, physically, and psychologically tested people with hand/eye coordination that is among the best in any profession. Issuing firearms to pilots would, in effect, be like issuing a gun to a police officer. A pilot should be able to defend his aircraft instead of being left defenseless. The second amendment to the Constitution guarantees the right to bear arms. As this is true for a homeowner to protect his family and himself, this should be true for pilots and their aircraft should they come under attack. Although the idea of using air marshals still exists, they are seen as being less effective. Along with ineffectiveness, the cost of placing an air marshal on every flight is unrealistic. A pilot who has undergone the proper training can perform the same task while being paid by the airlines, rather than spending taxpayer’s dollars (Shaw, 2001, September 19). As support for handguns in the cockpit grows, we must ask ourselves if four guns had been in the cockpit on September 11th would 3,000 people be dead, two 110 story buildings have been brought down, the Pentagon attacked, and a nation left in shock? Americans must realize that committed terrorists will be able to get past security, leaving pilots as the last line of defense. Along with pilots, many Americans feel these measures have to be taken in order to make the friendly skies, friendly again.

Effects Of Mangrove Destruction In Mumbai Environmental Sciences Essay

Effects Of Mangrove Destruction In Mumbai Environmental Sciences Essay Rapid expansion of urban spaces has caused pressure on fragile ecosystem of the city. Uneven growth of various regions has made migration a serious challenge. Increasing population growth of metropolitan has created concretization of island city and clearing of vital floral resources. Thousands of people from various parts of the country come to Mumbai every month. Around 43 per cent of citys population considered to be migrant. The predominant migrants are of rural origin, coming from various parts of the country, with two-third to three-fourths of all migrants belonging to this category. There are migrants from other countries as well but these have been less than one per cent since 1981 (Census; 2001). This trend migration is a Destruction of mangrove that was the habitat of several species of fishes have combined to leave the citys fisher folk of around 50,075 (Marine Fisheries Census; 2005) gasping for survival. Among various reasons economic factors have been the major cause for migration to Mumbai. About 69 per cent of males stated that employment was the main motive behind their movement. The data show that the rate of migrants in search for better employment has been higher in the late 1990s. Social reasons such as marriage and accompanying the family con stituted about 90 per cent of female migration. (Singh 2001) Population pressure is continuously increasing in the coastal area, so because of this expanding population mangrove is facing significant pressure of destruction. Mangroves have been cleared and degraded on an alarming scale during the past four decades (Valiela et al., 2001; Wilkie and Fortuna, 2003; Duke et al., 2007), yet they remain an important source of wood and food products and provide vitally important environmental services for coastal communities throughout the tropics (Balmford et al., 2002). Climate and Rainfall Kolis of Mumbai Kolis are the traditional fishing community of Mumbai and are the original inhabitants of the island city. Fishing is still the main source of their livelihood. The interesting fact is that, Mumbai is derived from the Koli word, Mumba, which means goddess of water. Several records reveal that Kolis have been found in Mumbai from early times. Dr. Gerson da Cunha in the book Origin of Mumbai describes old Mumbai as the desolate islet of the Mumbai Koli fishermen. The Kolis are reported to have occupied the land in A.D. 1138 The Koli community has several subcastes, the prominent ones are Koli kolis, Mangela Kolis, Mahadeo kolis, Suryawanshi kolis, Vaity kolis, Koli Christians. Kolis are divided into two occupational classes; Dolkars Vatsad Dolkars are usually rich compared to Vatsad among Kolis. Dolkars practice fishing on large scale Vatsads, who are a poor class of fishermen usually in the employ of the richer members of the community. Men are mostly engaged in fishing while, women take care of housing activities and selling of fish in the local market. Lot of their daily activities depend on the fishing season and tidal movement. Koli is the main language spoken by the community, Marathi is another frequently used language among Kolis. What are Mangroves? Mangroves are a group of trees, palms, shrubs, vines and ferns that share a common ability to live in waterlogged saline soil. These plants have developed unusual adaptations to the unique environmental conditions in which they are found. Mangrove can be typically refered to an individual species. Terms such as mangrove ecosystem, mangrove forest, mangrove community and mangrove swamp are used interchangeably to describe the entire mangrove community (Smithsonian Inst. 1996). There are around 80 species of mangroves found throughout the world (Saenger et al., 1983). Mostly they occur within tropical and subtropical coastal areas subjected to tidal impact. Tidal area can be interpreted to mean a shoreline inundated by the extremes of tides, or it can more widely refer to river-bank communities where tides cause some fluctuation in water level but no change in salinity (Tomlinson, 1986). There are mainly two types of mangrove; exclusive and non-exclusive. Exclusive mangroves are the largest group, comprising around 60 species (Saenger et al., 1983). These mangroves are confined to intertidal areas. Rest 20 species are referred as non-exclusive. Non-exclusive mangroves differ from the exclusive mangrove in the sense that these grow preferably in drier and more terrestrial areas. Features of Mangrove Mangrove Distribution Mangrove forests comprise up to 50 species of woody halophytes restricted to sheltered saline tidal areas, and once occupied around 75% of tropical coasts and inlets (Ellison 1997). Mangroves are the plats of tropical sheltered shores. Mangroves are found throughout the world between latitudes 32 °N and 38 °S. The upper and lower limits of this range are determined by temperature (Chapman, 1976; Tomlinson, 1986). Source: (Source: ENVIS, 2008) Mangrove Distribution in India According to the Government of India, the total area of the mangroves in India was around at 6,740 sq. Km. this covered about 7% of the world mangroves (Krishnamurthy, 1987) and about 8% of the Indian coastline (Untawale, 1987). But recent 2005 data of Survey of India, Dehradun shows an extent of 4,445 sq. km. mangrove areas in India. Out of the total acreage, 57% of the mangroves are found on the East Coast, 23% on the west coast and the remaining 20% on Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Table: State/UT wise Mangrove Cover Mangrove Cover Assessment 2001(Area in sq. km.) SL No. State/UT Dense Open Total % of Geographical Area 1 Andhra Pradesh 14 319 333 0.12 2 Goa 5 0 5 0.14 3 Gujrat 184 727 911 0.46 4 Karnataka 2 0 2 0.001 5 Maharahstra 90 28 118 0.04 6 Orissa 194 25 219 1.39 7 Tamil Nadu 10 13 23 0.02 8 West Bengal 1651 430 2081 2.34 9 Andaman and Nicobar 709 80 789 9.56 10 Pondichery 0 1 1 0.21 Total 2859 1623 4482 0.14 (Source: ENVIS, 2008) Mangrove Distribution in Maharashtra Maharashtra has 720 km long coastline, which has various characteristic features of beaches and rocky cliffs flanked by estuaries and patches of mangroves. Maharashtra coastal zone extends between the latitude 15 52N and 20 10N and longitude 72 10E and 73 10E and falls under five districts of Thane, Mumbai, Sindhudurg, Raigad, Ratnagiri. The mangroves of Maharashtra are the most diverse among the west coast and according to the Forest Survey of India (FSI) covered 116 sq. km in 2003. The area under mangroves in Maharashtra was 200 sq. km. in 1972-75, which reduced to 108 sq. km. in 1997. Mangroves of Mumbai Mangrove along the coast of Mumbai always faced the challenge of various anthropogenic activities over the decade. In early nineties around 37 sq.km. Of mangrove existed in Mumbai, mostly in Versova, Gorai, Mahim creek, Thane and Ghodbunder. Some sparsely covered patches of mangrove are also found in Bandra, Colaba, Mahul and Malabar Hill. The most commonly occurring species of mangrove in Mumbai is Avicennia marina, this covers the almost 60 per cent of species diversity. The characteristic feature of Avicennia marina makes it tolerable for high salinity area. This species also tolerates pollution including heavy metals such as lead, mercury and chromium. Table: Some of the commonly found mangroves in Mumbai (Source: Kulkarni, 2007) Temperature Mangroves mostly occur in areas where the average temperature of the coldest month is higher than 20 °C and the seasonal range does not exceed 10 °C. Lower temperature and frost also limits the growth and distribution of mangrove (Tomlinson, 1986). Rainfall Coastal areas which receive ample amount of rainfall, heavy runoff and seepage into the intertidal zone from the hinterland are most suitable for mangrove. These areas receive extensive sedimentation which provides huge quantity of nutrients, which in turn are favourable for mangrove growth (Tomlinson, 1986). Importance of Mangrove Multifaceted importance of mangrove has been realised in recent times but its ecological importance is known to scientific community since hundreds of years. Importance of mangrove can be broadly classified under following heads: Ecological Importance Mangroves are considered to be the most productive natural ecosystem throughout the world. Mangrove ecosystem comprise of numerous varieties of flora and fauna. Mangrove forest consist of seventy taxonomically diverse tree, shrub, palm and fern species under twenty-seven genera, twenty families, and nine orders that share a suite of convergent adaptations to saline, anoxic habitats (e.g. Tomlinson, 1986; Stewart Popp, 1987; Ball, 1988; Duke et al, 1998). Economic Importance Mangroves provide a vast range of wood and non-wood forest products which are of good economic value such as timber, fuel wood, medicine, thatch, honey, fodder, charcoal etc. Legislative Framework for Conservation and Management of Mangrove in India The Indian Forest Act, 1927: Provide protection to flora and fauna. The Indian Forest Act has been applied to the mangrove forest of the Sundarbans, which have been declared as a Reserved Area. The Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Provide protection to flora and fauna. Although they do not specifically mention mangroves, these acts can also apply to the conservation of the flora and fauna of mangrove ecosystem. The Forest Conservation Act, 1980: States that No forest area shall be diverted for any non-forestry purpose without prior approval of the Government of India. This act has proved very effective in preventing diversion of mangrove forest area for non-forestry purpose. Coast Guard Act, 1978: The concern for Marine and Coastal waters has led to formation of a special force, The act stipulate that Cost guard should combat oil pollution beyond 5 km in the sea and perform surveillance duty against international dumping of oil or waste by ship/tanker. The Environmental (Protection) Act, 1986: It has a crucial role in the Conservation and Management of mangrove ecosystem. It declares a Coastal Regulation Zone notified in 1991, in which industrial and other activities such as discharge of untreated water and effluents, dumping of waste and land reclamation are restricted in order to protect the Coastal environment. Condition of Mangrove in Coastal Regulation Zone It is stipulated that in case of mangrove with an area of 1000 sq.m or more, would be classified as CRZ with a buffer zone of at least 50 m Mangrove is a tropical tree growing, along the coast and requires saline water for its growth. Expert in this field say that mangrove are very important along the coast for breaking of tides and it is valuable resources having several direct uses. Hence proper the protection of mangrove is very important. (Chauhan, 2004) Prohibited Activities in the Coastal Regulation Zone (a) Setting of new industries and expansion of existing industries (except those directly related to waterfront or directly needing for shore facilities). (b) Manufacture, handling, storage or disposal of hazardous substances. (c) Setting up and expansion of fish processing units including warehousing (d) Discharge of untreated wastes and effluents from industries, cities and other human settlements. (e) Dumping of cities and town wastes for the purpose of land filling. (f) Dumping of ash or any wastes from thermal power station. (g) Land reclamation bunding or disturbing the natural course of seawater with similar obstructions except those required for control of coastal erosion. (h) Mining of sands, rocks and others sub strain materials except other minerals not available outside the CRZ areas. (i) Construction activities in ecologically sensitive areas. (j) Any construction activities between the Low Tide line and high tide line except in permitted areas. (k) Dressing or altering of sand dunes, hills natural features including landscape changes. Regulation of Permissible Activities in Coastal Regulation Zone 1. Clearance shall be given for any activities within the CRZ if it requires waterfronts and fore shore facilities. 2. The following activities will require environmental clearance from Ministry of Environment and Forest Govt. of India. a) Construction activities related to defence requirements for which fore shore facilities are required (e.g. Jetties etc.). b) Operational constructions for ports and harbours and lighthouses requiring water frontage Jetty, waves quays etc. c) Thermal Power Plants (only foreshore facilities for transport of raw materials for intake of cooling water and out fall for discharge of treated waste water). d) All other activities with investment exceeding rupees Five Crores. 3. a) The Coastal states and Union territory Administration shall prepare Coastal Zone Management Plans at the earliest and approval be taken from Central Govt. in the Ministry of Forest and Environment. b) Within the Framework of such approval plans the State Govt./U.T. Administration or local Authorities shall regulate all development and activities within the Coastal Regulation Zone. Violation of Coastal Regulation Zone has been seen in various parts of Mumbai Metropolitan region. Several environmental activists have raised the voice against these violations. Coastal area is vital to the prosperity of country and usually most productive areas, supporting a wealth of marine resources. With rapid industrialization, urbanization, resultant pollutions and depleting resources along the coast have resulted in degradation of coastal ecosystem and diminishing the living resources. Environmentally effective coastal zone management requires accurate, up to date and comprehensive scientific data on which policy decision can be used. Mangrove Destruction and its Impact Importance of mangrove has been recognised by various stakeholders of the society viz. scientists, government, local populations of biotic and socioeconomic services. Accurate estimates of global deforestation rates of mangroves are not available; its well-known environmental and socioeconomic impacts are observed and increasingly documented in coastal communities that depend directly on mangroves, and in upland communities with economic links to the coast. The primary cause of destruction throughout the world is clear cutting, illegal dumping and reclamation; these are carried for the purpose of agricultural activities, aquaculture, urban expansion, and resort development and have threatened the majority of mangrove ecosystem. This destruction exacerbating economic stress of largely low-income, fast growing local population, who are driven to exploit mangroves despite clear signs of degradation. Mangrove forests are a source of livelihood for thousands of coastal communities in developing countries worldwide; these communities traditionally harvest fish, shrimp, timber, non-timber forest Products, and fuel wood from them. The importance of the mangrove ecosystem transcends provisioning services and includes regulatory, ecological, cultural, and aesthetic services. However, these services are diminishing globally, most especially the provisioning service, and this is putting the livelihoods of coastal communities at risk and increasing their vulnerability to tropical storms and surges. These trends are the outcome of mounting anthropogenic activities such as brackish water aquaculture, mangrove forest clearing for infrastructure development and varied levels of harvesting for subsistence. Because of these pressures, mangroves in coastal tropical developing countries are being degraded; for instance, 20-30% of mangrove forests have been lost in West-Central Africa since 1980 (UNEP-WCMC, 2007). Mangrove and Fishing Linkages Between Mangrove and Fishing Fishes and invertebrates use estuarine and inshore habitats in a number of ways: some are only occasional visitors; some use them only at certain life stages, whereas others reside permanently in the estuaries (Lenanton Potter 1987, Potter et al. 1990, Potter Hyndes 1999, Whitfield 1999). There are various groups of fishes and invertebrates which show distinct association with mangrove. Fishes which are found occasionally in estuaries are termed as marine stragglers (Potter Hyndes 1999, Whitfield 1999) and these stragglers have least dependence on estuaries. There are species which uses estuaries and inshore regions for significant time period especially during juvenile stage only. In some marine species juveniles are only found in mangroves and these are termed as mangrove dependent species; e.g., banana prawn P. merguiensis (Staples et al. 1985, Vance et al. 1996). Catadromous species travel between fresh and marine water also use mangrove habitats at certain life stages e.g., barramundi Lates calcarifer (Russell Garrett 1983). Some species spend their entire life cycle in estuaries and are termed as true estuarine species. The importance of mangrove for sustaining production of fishery in coastal ecosystem is a widely held paradigm that mangroves act as important nursery sites for fisheries species. The function of mangroves as nursery sites is widely accepted (e.g., Blaber 2000, Kathiresan Bingham 2001) and this paradigm is used for important management decisions on habitat conservation and restoration of mangrove (Beck et al. 2001). There are also theories that states; area of mangrove habitat in an estuary translates to the secondary production and catch of commercial fisheries (Baran 1999). There are clear cases of example which depict the correlation between the magnitude of commercial finfish catches and the extent of mangroves. For example, in the Philippines, a positive, but weak, correlation was found between mangrove area and the catch of four families of commercial fish (Paw Chua 1991). Freshwater Mangrove Marine Freshwater Mangrove Marine Figure Number of fish and shrimp species occurring in freshwater, marine and mangrove ecosystem showing higher species diversity in the mangroves (Islam Haque 2005). Mangrove as nursery site for fishes: Mangroves and estuaries share characteristic features such as shallow water, reduced wave action, high organic content in the sediment, high primary production and protection from predators, which may all contribute to their role as nurseries. Nursery areas for fishes have been regarded as any areas inhabited by the juveniles, often with the adults living in separate habitats. But, this definition of nursery is challenged by Beck et al, (2001); he proposes a different picture of fish nurseries a habitat is a nursery for juveniles of a particular species if its contribution per unit area to the production of individuals that recruit to adult populations is greater, on average, than production from other habitats in which juveniles occur. According to this definition nursery is that part of habitat area of juvenile which are most productive in terms of supply of recruits to adult populations and, therefore, to fisheries. Based on the reproductive pattern and its association with the mangrove fishes can be classified into following four categories: a) Regular spawners The spawning activity of the species occurs regularly in the mangrove. The species are not necessarily resident in the region, but they always use it to spawn. e.g. S. rastrifer, B. Ronchus b) Occasional spawners The spawning activity in the mangrove is merely occasional. This region can be used to spawn, but there is no evidence that a great number of individuals in this group of species use it. These species are not as abundant in the mangrove as those of regular spawners. e.g. C. parallelus, C. edentulus c) Matures in system The spawning activity of the species does not occur in the mangrove, but this region is frequented regularly during the final phase of maturation. e.g. I. Parvipinnis d) Do not mature in system The spawning activity does not occur in the mangrove, and the gonadal maturation, if present, does not occur in many individual. e.g. P. corvinaeformis, P. brasiliensis The exact role of mangroves as nurseries are not well understood but a number of hypotheses have been proposed to explain this role (Robertson Blaber 1992, Blaber 2000). The three main hypotheses are that mangroves provide juveniles with (1) Refuge from predators Numerous piscivorous fish enter mangrove during the high tide period (Blaber et al. 1989, Vance et al. 1996) thus smaller fishes escape their predators by entering in mangrove. This is attributed by various factors structural complexity of submerged vegetation, shallow water and turbidity can give significant refuges from predators, especially for small, mobile animals (Robertson Duke 1987, Robertson Blaber 1992). Mangroves provide the protection from prey by structural complexity as mangrove habitat is very complex structurally because of pneumatophores and fallen debris (leaves, branches and logs), prop roots, buttresses and branches. These structures provide protection in various ways: by reducing prey visibility, by lowering encounter rate of prey and predator, and by limiting the ability of predator to search for and capture prey (Rà ¶nnbà ¤ck et al. 1999). Shallow water condition does not favour the entry of large predators thus providing another form of refuse for small fishes and crustaceans (Boesch Turner 1984, Blaber 2000). It has been observed at various places that small fishes and prawns moved into more shallow waters while larger predatory fishes remained in deeper water at the fringes of the mangroves. High turbidity and shade beneath the mangrove canopy decreases the underwater visibility. The turbid and shaded water often found around mangroves may therefore provide an additional refuge from visual predators (Blaber Blaber 1980, Whitfield 1999). Juvenile fishes get attracted to turbid areas and may use the turbidity gradient to locate nursery areas. Abundances of some fish species have been found to be higher in areas of higher turbidity (Blaber 2000). Figure: Conceptual schematic diagram of the nutrient and energy fluxes in self-sustained mangrove ecosystem and the interaction of mangrove with adjacent freshwater and offshore marine ecosystem. (Source: Islam Haque, 2005) (2) Abundance of food Nutrient content and primary productivity are usually very high in mangrove area and food availability is more for fishes and crustaceans than any other coastal habitats. Nutrient comes to the mangrove system from upstream and from seaward and they are concentrated in mangrove area by trapping. Primary productivity in the mangrove forest itself attributed to several sources including epiphytes, phytoplankton, mangrove trees, and benthic microalgae (Rà ¶nnbà ¤ck 1999). Various fishes consume most of their feed when they come to the mangrove area. Primary productivity in mangrove forest forms the basis of a food web supplying abundant and varied trophic resources to higher consumers (Baran Hambrey 1998). Mangrove forest produce litter throughput the year, they have the ability to produce large quantities of litter, ranging from 10,000 to 14,000 kg dry weight/ ha/ year (Hamilton and Snedaker, 1984). Most creatures are unable to assimilate this directly and require bacterial enrichment before consumption. However, sesarmid crabs can directly consume mangrove litter and/or store 30-80% of the litterfall (Rà ¶nnbà ¤ck 1999). These crabs are eaten by fishes, creating a pathway for mangrove nutrients to enter food webs. (3) Shelter from physical disturbances Mangrove habitat is the area of low current, where impact of coastal tide gets reduced. This provides the small juvenile fishes benign physical environment to settle. Mangrove presence increases the residence time of water, especially in flat, wide mangroves with complex waterways (Wolanski Ridd 1986). The juveniles of few species of crustaceans, such as banana prawns Penaeus merguiensis and P. indicus ), are found exclusively in mangrove ecosystem (Staples et al. 1985, Vance et al. 1998, Rà ¶nnbà ¤ck et al. 2002) and are described as highly mangrove-dependent. It has been established from various studies that about two third of worlds fish and shellfish harvest are directly linked to estuarine habitat (Robertson Blaber 1992). Rà ¶nnbà ¤ck (1999) listed the proportion of mangrove-related species in fisheries in various parts of the world: Geographical Location % of fishes dependent on mangrove Fiji 60 Florida 80 India 60 Eastern Australia 70 Malacca Strait 49 Southeast Asian countries Fish 30 (Prawn 100%) Malaysia 32 Philippines 72 Products of Mangrove Ecosystem (Source: Saenger et al, 1983) Mangroves of Mumbai Mangrove Destruction Various studies confirm the destruction of mangrove throughout the globe and in particular have focused on estimating the total area cleared, rate of clearing, loss of sediments and erosion (Hatcher et al. 1989, Valiela et al. 2001, Alongi 2002). Figure: Proportion of existing global mangrove areas and areas in the South and Southeast Asia (Source: Islam Haque, 2005)