East of Eden Biblical Allusions

Parker Hoshizaki Tully English 2 (H) 10; 1 10/5/2003 Cain and Abel: The Symbolic Trio of Pairs â€Å"Why are you so angry? Why is your face downcast? If you do what is right, will you not be accepted? † so flows verse 7, genesis 4. In John Steinbecks novel, East of Eden several allusions are made to the biblical story of Cain and Abel, the most significant of which revolves around the idea of â€Å"timshel:† which is embodied within this quotation. Repeated through the two generations the novel spans are three examples of this, patterned first by Charles and his brother Adam, then through Adam and his troubled wife Cathy, and finally through the aforementioned couples offspring Aron and the controversial character Caleb (Cal). The vicious cycle of Cain against Abel, Brother against Brother, in the Trask family destroys these generations and yet a glimmer of hope remains through the idea of â€Å"Timshel†. Moving chronologically, Adam and Charles are the first Cain and Abel pairing in the novel. Logically, they show the closest parallelism to the original story; this parallelism can be drawn down to three main events in the storyline. The first of these events is the acceptance and denial, respectively, of gifts presented by Adam and Charles to their father, the god figure in their version of the story. This event is followed by the attempted murder of Adam by his own brother Charles, as a direct result of the previous incident. The third event is much later in the story, as Charles is trying to move a large boulder with a crowbar he slips and cuts his forehead, an injury that will leave a large scar symbolic of the mark the Lord put upon Cain after Abels murder. The second pairing in the symbolic Cain and Abel trio is that of Cathy and Adam. Cathy and Adam are an unusual Cain and Able pairing in East of Eden but are important nonetheless. The pairing of Cathy and Adam does not express its symbolisms through key events like the other two do; instead they are expressed more through their personalities then their actions. Cathy symbolizes all the most evil parts of the biblical Cain, all the evil and malice that he possessed is expressed through Cathys malicious personality. Meanwhile the innocent and happily-in-love Adam is symbolic of the purity and contentment of the Abel; that is, up until the climactic shooting of Adam by Cathy marking the end of this Cain and Abel pairing. Before introducing the third pairing there is an important character that must be analyzed. Known simply as Lee, Adams highly educated Chinese manservant is a key character in the symbolic Cain and Able cycle. After being assaulted by his wife, Adam is bedridden and empty; at this point Lee begins to act as a caretaker for his employer, looking after him and caring for his twin sons Cal and Aron. Thus it is fitting that Lee should be the one to counsel Cal in his most vulnerable moment, and plant the seed of hope in his mind. In respect to the novel, Lee serves primarily as a physical embodiment of the idea of individual ability and freedom, he preaches this to Cal through the idea of â€Å"Timshel†, a Hebrew word meaning â€Å"thou mayest†. Lee believes that Cal is not inherently evil, is not destined to follow the same path as his ancestors, and has a choice as to how he will lead his life. The third Cain and Abel pairing and perhaps the most important one is, ironically, that of Adams twin boys, Caleb and Aron. The biblical symbolism of Cal and Arons generation is simultaneously the most unusual and the most significant to the novel. With this third example returns three symbols of the original story. First is the two gifts, and once again the symbolic Abels gift is accepted while the symbolic Cains is denied, a repetition of Adams fathers favoritism. Following this event Caleb is so enraged he tells the emotionally fragile Aron of their mothers’ true identity, a whore employed in a brothel. So emotionally affected by this is Aron that he runs away and joins the army the following day. Aron is later killed in the war thus fulfilling the second symbolic Cain and Abel event. The final and most significant event in the novel is the next step in the Cain and Abel story, the marking of Cain. Cal is horribly disturbed by what he has caused his brother to do, and he is convinced that he has inherited his mothers’ evil blood and is destined for a life of evil. However through the timely and wise council of Lee, he is made to ask his father, his god, for a blessing. To which Adam responds with a single word, Timshel, symbolically breaking the families’ vicious cycle of Cain and Abel pairings. If you do not do what is right, sin is crouched at your door; it desires to have you, but you must master it. † (Genesis 4, Verse 7). Thus ends the cruel cycle of blood and malcontent that plagued the Trask family. Armed with the belief of Timshel given to Cal by Lee one may see that there is hope for the final Cain character in the book, that he may not be bound by blood and by history to be evil and that he may gain the freedom to blaze his own path i nto a future unmarred by his past.

Development of Political Theories Essay

This paper seeks to discuss what two philosophers say about feminism and the importance of what they have said or the effect of their ideas to the policy of life. The two persons are Mary Wollstonecraft and Simone de Beauvoir. Mary Wollstonecraft states that unwilling submission to any person, institution, or custom is not good to women as the same could limit, degrade and destroy the person. The philosopher in effect believes in reason so that she further asserts that infallible and God-given reason should control all human thought and action (Philosophy Professor, 2008a). In support for having reason, she further argues that women must have the freedom to cultivate reason, which she believes be to the key to self-improvement and social change. Wollstonecraft has also her strong belief in environment and education which shape character and morality. In support of her belief, she forwards that idea that education is the right of all humankind, including women, so that through education women can gain independence and equality (Philosophy Professor, 2008a). The ideas of Mary Wollstonecraft are very important to making policies on life particularly or equality of humankind regardless of gender because unwilling submission connotes lack of freedom and necessarily of reason. That education is important is beyond question since the same opens up the minds of people to knowledge about the truth that would lead them to perform their roles according to the dictates of said truth and reason. Her dream to have independence and equality is consistent with basic human rights. Simone de Beauvoir, on the other hand, believes that human beings tragically live under an ambiguous condition but still they must assume responsibility for the direction of their lives. She also believes that every person is originally free and that women have been compelled by men to be the second sex (Philosophy Professor, 2008b). Implying loss of freedom of women, there is strong basis for her assertion that historical and cultural conditions under which women have been oppressed should not stop these women from assuming their human dignity as free and independent persons (Philosophy Professor, 2008b). In other words, losing the freedom need not be a hopeless for she believes that not doing anything to restore that lost freedom that will lead these women to become free and independent indeed is an abject of failure for in the end fate is still a matter of choice. The philosopher’s position is important for it reasserts responsibility of humankind, not only women to whatever is happening to them. It can be concluded that each thinker had a part in having promoted the cause of feminism which basically include equality, freedom and independence. Mary Wollstonecraft may have put it more dramatically by describing what is not to have freedom by making an unwilling submission while Simone de Beauvoir essentially has pointed responsibility for lost freedom– that is if women suffer their fate, it was because of their failure to assume responsibility in invoking that lost freedom. While Wollstonecraft states the importance of education that would lead to opening up the minds of women to knowledge, truth and dictates of reason, Simone de Beauvoir was still assuming a freedom of choice to be reasserted by women because of her premise of human beings having to live tragically under an ambiguous condition. It could be deduced that both thinkers have their own followers who are led to the common objective of women to get what they deserved as human beings. References: Philosophy Professor (2008a) Mary Wollstonecraft (1759-1797){www document} URL http://www. philosophyprofessor. com/philosophers/mary-wollstonecraft. php, Accessed November 30, 2008 Philosophy Professor (2008b) Simone de Beauvoir (1908-1986) {www document} URL http://www. philosophyprofessor. com/philosophers/simone-de-beauvoir. php, Accessed November 30, 2008

A Definition Of Social Justice

A Definition Of Social Justice Before considering social justice, it is important to understand why it matters. Social justice is a powerful idea in society today, buts its origins and meanings are partially unclear. There is perhaps little if any doubt about the significance of this question among people in poor and rich countries. The following research in regard to what I am going to discuss within this essay is looked upon at the concept of justice in regard to the issues and the impact of justice as of reducing the balance between rich and poor. Subsequently the overall concept of justice will appeal in my contention about fairness. As this meaning isnt controvertible it will demonstrate that patterns which are indecencies as embodied in the developing countries demanding another way to deal with justice between the rich and poor nations. However, in today’s gig economy this is not the case with reference to case studies it enables to try bringing out the possibilities and limitations of social justice as of what can be achieved to make it a better outcome. It also talks about the conventions and principles as stated as to what the society is doing to protect the individuals that are of in need of supporting their conditions. It even defines detailed definitions as opposed to every definition being merely different as from the perspective of the person in rich and poor countries such as social justice and fairness each word described having its own meaning. However, no one can deny the gap between rich and poor, but it is becoming progressively wider. Throughout the essay I even have concluded 1 context of justice distributive which is to do with fairness but in contrast it is said to be successful but is still being criticized. It is even argued that social justice is perceived as protecting individuals ensuring that they are treated fairly. The definition stated by Susan Torres offers a useful starting point for explaining the key individual elements of each word as opposed to the context within this definition under international law. As stated social justice is the key fundamental in valuing of ‘fairness and equity in resources, rights and treatment for marginalized individuals and groups of people, who do not share equal power in society because of their immigration, racial, ethnic, age, socio economic, religious heritage, physical ability, or sexual orientation status groups’ . As prior to clearly being a member of society, each member deserves to have all the same rights and opportunities and fairness within because the key components and aspects of social justice are entirely to do with society fairness. Therefore, it concludes to be the very essence of all great spiritual teachings throughout the society and without justice they cannot be any greater justice. To an extent it is even basically trying to create a society so that all members can lead fulfilling lives and have access to all the institutions prior to helping members of society realize potential in the community. Besides that, the meaning of justice is pretty well captured in a more familiar term, because social justice takes the core idea of justice as fairness and fairness often has been used with regards to an ability to judge without reference to ones feelings or interests and it can be heavily debated and is defined differently depending on whether it is from the perspective of the rich or poor. The law is moderately being a characteristic instrument as it can both increase and decrease legal aid. A particular example of the law diminishing legal aid is Equality Act 2010 which legally protects individuals from segregation in the work environment and wider society. However, they are numerous occurrences where this isnt the case in the law protecting individuals against discrimination. However, individuals are still being segregated example women may not get a job position due to becoming a pregnant mother and after that taking a paid leave. Besides that, additionally there is still a compensation pay gap amongst men and women and essentially, they should have right to equal pay. It is very common as to the gender pay gap being a potential topic of interest as of it being reduced within the UK it is still suggested it is still in favor for men. However as indicated over the UK it is said to be that men earn more than ladies as indicated by the national statistics and therefore the equality act must work on the grounds claiming that in April 2017, the sex pay hole for full time representatives diminished to 9.1% as in 1997 it was 17.4% as indicated by ONS. Although over time it has decreased, it is yet not socially on the grounds that people arent dealt with similarly and are contrarily negatively discriminated till day. In R (SG) v Secretary of state for work and pensions (2015) UKSC 16, (2015) 1 WLR 1449, the inquiry was whether the advantage cap was justifiable. The cap limits total of household income from welfare benefits to a fixed sum, irrespective of the subsistence needs of the family. The parties come to terms that it was by implication prejudicial against women. Lady Hale stated that what must be considered is whether the benefit cap applies to lone parents and it can be justified independently of its discriminatory effects. In considering that, Lady Hale concluded that the cap will deprive children of their basic needs which cannot be in their best interests and therefore the indirect sex discrimination inherent in the cap’s implementation is not a proportionate way of achieving its aims. Therefore, the most unfavorably influenced were single guardians with at least 3 or more children living in generally costly leased accommodation. They were adversely influenced as of the fact tha t they were less likely to get away from the impact of the cap and by moving to a new house and getting a job. Overwhelmingly these lone guardians were women and statistics demonstrated that 90% of single guardians are women in the UK. It is even seen that agreements representing those working in the gig economy are an example of exploitative new work patterns, and authoritative commitments in the common law. And sense they can never longer convey justice as shown by Uber and Deliveroo. These two organizations could control business law to profit them, Uber workers are categorized as independently employed working in a gig economy in view of adaptable work hours as they have little to none business security or assurance. Looking at the discussion of social justice in relation to distributive justice in a national and international context, distributive Justice is more concerned with the fair allocations of resources among diverse members of a community. The principles in regards to this are normative principles designed to allocate goods in limited supply relative to demand. The principles vary in what goods are subject to distribution income, wealth, opportunities and on the nature of subjects of the distribution and on the basis the goods distributed. One of the simplest principles of distributive justice is that of strict or radical equality. The principle even says that every person should have the same level of goods and services .However distributive justice is therefore best thought of as providing moral guidance for the political processes and structures that affect the distribution of benefits and burdens in societies. Beyond that the UN often refers poverty as a vicious cycle made up of a r ange of factors associated making it hard to overcome. As opposed to many societies are preventing individuals from enjoying their rights simply either as to who there are or cannot afford. Discriminatory laws, policies and practices may suggest that these groups are even denied the right to high standard of health, to work and adequate housing. Within case study the concept of social justice can have an impact as the laws can affect the opportunities of the freedom of citizens. The laws likewise control the delivery and influence whether assets e.g. education, healthcare and housing are or are not accessible to people based on their racial, ethnic, to age, socio economic, religious, heritage physical ability, or sexual orientation . To an extent at a point when laws discriminate people based on their enrolment to a specific social gathering, they have a substantial impact not just on who but on how people can embody and perform their personality, however likewise they can influence whether they can get to welfare benefits that addresses converging types of poverty. Besides that, what comes into place also is referred with refugees and they are more to do with an individual being given security of protection. Therefore, asylum seekers become a refugee when the immigration authority decides on the outcome whether the individual fits within the international definition of a refugee. Besides this the international law states that for an individual to become a refugee the individual clearly needs to have met the criteria for the refugee status as stated by the article convention 1951. International and European law on a refugee basis is an example of the law being socially just and a measure of reducing balance between the rich and poor claiming the law is giving asylum seekers and refugees the chance to a superior life by enabling them to dwell in their country of origin, if their life is in danger in their country of origin. The Dublin Regulation is one measure of the European law which does this. Article 6(4) of regulation (EU) No604/2013 expresses that a part state in which an unaccompanied child has held up a case for asylum, the best interests of a child must be protected. The law instantly promotes social justice because it is taken account of the prosperity and the best interests of the child into thought before anything else. Within the 1951 convention Article 31 even states that refugees are secured against penalties for reason of illegal entry. The law encompasses human rights and it even promotes social justice and sustainability since it ensures that individuals who are in danger or at risk by aiding them to move to a safe country. Furthermore, Whether the applicant the home countries are ‘safe’ it can be assessed by examining the definition in Annex I of the Procedures Directive, which stipulates that taking into account: the legal situation of a country, the application of the law within a democratic system and the general political circumstances†¦there is generally and consistently no persecution†¦, no torture or inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment and no threat by reason of indiscriminate violence in situations of international or internal armed conflict . Although the 1951 article convention sets out an obligation on states to treat refugees without discrimination in view of their nation of origin , the asylum procedures directive and its recast have enabled the EU nations to partition asylum seekers into various categories, with nationals of certain third nations justifying less favorable procedural treatment than others. This may raise basic strains with obligation to regard of the convention as the foundation of refugee protection in the EU4 and to refrain any elucidation of the EU refuge acquits which would undermine it. According to lady hale speech case study is entirely linked as many infection diseases are killing millions of people each year of whom are in the developing world. The leading cases of illnesses and deaths are in Africa, Asia and south America regions that accounts for the world’s population which are HIV/AIDS, The crisis of aids has especially drawn the attention with respect to the way that numerous number of people in the developing world dont appear to get to the medications that are expected to treat disease or alleviate suffering. Consistently many more people are killed due to the aids in this developing society. The situations behind this is because of the lack of access to essential medicines being manifold, however in many cases high cost of medications is particular barrier to required medicines or treatments. As from knowing excessively the drug prices are often due to strong intellectual property protection. Therefore, the governments within the developing countr ies try and attempt to bring the cost of the medicines down prior to having come under pressure from industrialized countries and the multinational pharmaceutical industry. As to joining WTO it equals to lower tariffs meaning more money for the owner of the medicines. In terms of this the world trade organization partially sets out standards for the overall protection of intellectual property, including patents for pharmaceuticals, which has come under criticism because of the effects that increased levels of patent protection will have on drug prices . Several number of new medicines are vital for the survival of millions they are already too costly for most people in poor countries either because the medicines are unaffordable, have become ineffective due to resistance, or are not sufficiently adapted to specific local conditions and constraints The law as of opposed does not deliver a socially just outcome as of those in a less economically developed nations and wont have the capacity to afford the cost of medicines by owners who have a monopoly because of licenses required by trips. Nonetheless, it does protect individuals property rights so individuals cant copyright their work so nobody else can assume the acknowledgement for it without the owner’s consent. From this, one could come to a conclusion that the Doha Declaration takes a large step toward ensuring that intellectual property protection serves the public interest and lays out the options countries have available when prices of existing patented drugs are too high for their populations .Also that the law protects property more than it does therefore people’s lives are wasted due to patent laws being practiced. It can even be said that law undermines social justice and that law will never be socially just as opposed to the current system of the intellectual property. However as to considering a different context such as human rights, the law still protects people as much as it possibly can as to a certain extent where these laws will allow citizens to flee their country if they feel they are being persecuted. The UK legislation in the 1940s recognized rights to universal free education up to age14.This helped poorer children have free access to schools. The underlying principle was social justice as to those not being able to look after themselves should be looked after by the community from the cradle to the grave. Besides that, in relation to this what emerged in 1942 was a Beveridge report which was a method of reducing the balance between rich and poor as the rich paid into scheme to help the poor. This is an example of the law from the cradle to the grave as to the whole community looking after those in need of help. Referring to lady hale speech from the comments they are ought to be applauded as she has an obligation to secure the task and access the law in the UK. However, she considers it to be her obligation to alert those along these lines and if not, it would be ethically off-base. I feel that the access to justice is a vital issue and if these progressions imply then those with no capital cant challenge those with huge money saves the suggestions for us as a general public are appalling. However, take cases of evidence against huge pharmaceutical organizations for instance without legal aid are currently now impossible. Besides that, there have been hi profile cases of absurdity, for example, the Maxwell Brothers when all is said and done in the arrangement of legal aid it has prompted fairness and equivalent access. In the event the judges say nothing in regard to the approaches about the policies it will therefore destroy natural justice issues. I would recommend that they have failed t he promise they took towards the beginning of their profession and should hang their heads in disgrace. The main thing is that it is basic if they criticize such plans wherever they originate from and are not divided in their complaints. This lady’s balance is a careful critique to me as an indication of her exceptional honesty and faith in the law and access to it for all. I applaud her activities and expectation it causes a genuine verbal confrontation. Overall each case study raises significant questions about the balance between rich and poor in terms of advantages and disadvantages. Besides that, the law does have an important part in promoting social justice, but it is limited. Numerous people would state that the law adds to the realization of a more socially and sustainable society because of human rights and legislation and international and European law, however this isnt altogether true. Whilst the law is encompassing human rights it has promoted social justice in past when incorporated but it isnt always generally for the underprivileged. Property law is a key example of how the law doesnt change the harmony amongst rich and poor rather it builds it. The conception of social justice refers more broadly to fairness and equality, but it additionally speaks to a worldwide structure for human rights, recognition and dignity, however patent laws are utilized for instance peoples dignity and human rights are not regarded. Also crediting individuals for their work is considered more vital than saving a life, therefore it isnt altogether. Just, it can be esteemed ethically wrong while social justice is tied in with being ethically right and moral. Further on in regard to the laws having an impact on these circumstances changes have been implemented but it doesnt have much of a big impact as to balance. Beyond that referring to lady hale speech every context in social justice has a different meaning in poor and rich countries because of the world we live in and prior to the difficulties faced. However, at a point we understand justice drives from ensuring that all individuals and countries have equal opportunities to exercise their talents and be rewarded for their efforts. Also, as to the 1951 conventions being in place it helps provide a good framework within which decisions can be made and it can at least help with decisions and help individuals.

Sabmiller Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Sabmiller - Case Study Example From the above tabular form, it is apparent that more than pursuing organic growth, SAB Miller has concentrated on consolidation and expansion; the latter achieved through acquisitions and strategic alliances. Porter's five forces model helps in analysing the forces or aspects that influence an industry. This analysis, however, is relevant for a particular industry and not in assessing the performance at the company level. This model thus helps in studying the effects of the external factors that drive a company's performance and output in terms of the other elements operating in the same industry. The five forces constituting the model - competitive rivalry, threat of new entry, bargaining power of suppliers, bargaining power of buyers and threat of substitutes. All these forces ultimately affect the profitability of the company. However, these forces that affect the profitability of a company make up the business environment of any organization and are beyond the sphere of influence of the company's control. So, it is important for the company to develop and adopt tactics to combat these competitive forces and keep a tab on them to foresee the upcoming trends and accordingly brace thems elves with suitable strategies. Following are the forces described individually. (Ehmke C. et al, September 2004) Competitive Rivalry- The main competitor of SAB Miller was Anheuser-Busch.

Abstract for technical report about biofules in aviation Essay

Abstract for technical report about biofules in aviation - Essay Example These emissions are relatively high and cause pollution that affects both the society and the technical growth in the aviation industry. This includes the destruction of the O-zone layer and clogging of the environment (Kemp, 2006). The objectives are achieved through the use of bio-fuels to reduce pollution to the environment and reduce the costs of running the aviation industry. The methods used in the research included both primary and secondary data collection methods where the necessary data was gathered, recorded and analyzed. The use of bio-fuels help in reduction of carbon IV oxide and other greenhouse gases discharged for the period of its use. This minimizes pollution to the environment. Furthermore, it reduces the costs of running freights in the aviation industry due to its cheaper production process as compared to fossil fuels (Kemp, 2006). The subject of usage of bio-fuels in the aviation industry is a vital matter to everyone on the planet. Basically, it involves saving the environment from the gaseous hazards while reducing costs of running the industry by producing a cheaper source of energy for the

Do we posses free will and are we ever morally responisble Essay

Do we posses free will and are we ever morally responisble - Essay Example Furthermore, the denial of free will leads to the fact that morality as a science of human responsibility and freedom of ethical choice loses its value. Not having the freedom of will, a person cannot take a free moral choice. Consequently, regardless of human actions including bad ones no one can punish a person because in this case the man is not morally responsible. From my point of view, these two arguments in favor of the existence of free will are sufficiently convincing. Nevertheless, opponents of the idea of free will can bring two rather serious counterarguments that have scientific and ethical character. According to the first scientific counterargument, human free will cannot exist for one simple reason. Every human act can be explained on the basis of the reason, which leads to its implementation. Specialists who deny free will demonstrate that regardless of what people do one can find reasons for their behavior and actions. Not by chance that many philosophers who had the opportunity to conduct scientific studies have concluded that human life, actions, and even thoughts are deterministic, since they have a cause. Therefore, free will cannot exist because determinism defines human life. For example, in addressing the issue of the relationship between free will and determinism, a well-known English philosopher Thomas Hobbes emerged as an opponent of the doctrine of free will (Duncan). Hobbes defined the will as the desire stemming from the preceding act of deliberation. The will is not arbitrary, said Hobbes, thus Hobbes denied any free will. Hobbes consistently and persistently p ursued the idea that the will itself is caused by other factors that do not depend on it. Therefore, all voluntary actions are caused by necessary reasons and are compelled. This logic may seem to be rather convincing and able to justify the denial of the existence of freedom. Nevertheless, if one continues to

Program Planning, Research, and Evaluation Research Paper

Program Planning, , and Evaluation - Research Paper Example The disease shows various signs and symptoms that constitute hot flushes, breathlessness, restless legs, headaches, nausea, vertigo, abdominal pains, dry mouth, hyperventilation and palpitations. In a case, for example, students experience various anxieties resulting from their academic interactions (Cassady, 2010). In real sense, students’ assessment in particular areas of educational field results to the beginning of educational anxiety that hampers their potential to achieve success in a particular field. 3 Anxiety illness is partially passed on from parents. Several researches prove that high emotional, strung and nervous is experienced throughout a family. A perfect example is that sixty percent of children whose parents experience anxiety develop an inhibited temperament and fear (Coon, Mitterer, Talbot & Vanchella, 2010). These children have a character that is wary and irritable when young and when they become toddlers they are fearful and shy. When they enroll in the elementary they are often cautious and quiet and when they are adults they are at high possibility of anxiety difficulties for example panic attacks (p. 486). 3 This community needs the health promotion program because there is a possibility of anxiety illnesses in girls during adolescence. According to Weiner (2003), studies confirm that African American girls suffer from a higher number of anxieties (p. 40). An anxiety disorder is caused by integrating environmental and biological factors. Most families in Everett are poor which would then imply that their children can develop anxiety disorder resulting from state of poverty. 4 This health promotion program will be developed in conjunction with Everett Community Health Partnership (ECHP). The mission of ECHP is to enhance health and the standard of life of the community of Everett by generating chances for

Aviation Safety Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Aviation Safety - Essay Example now and ice plan is in place; adopting new HAMZAT handling/storage and ARFF regulations; proper emergency plan, traffic/wind indicators, self-inspection, and ground vehicle operations management; assuring public protection, NAVAIDS, obstruction, construction and unserviceable; undergoing airport reporting and wildlife hazard management (FAA, 2009). 1. Contracted Airports: The issue of some cash strapped cities selling their airports to private businesses has been in practice for many decades. However, this arrangement won’t hinder an airport from being certified (Wolfe & NewMyer, 1985). That is, a privately managed airport can still receive its certification if all safety precautions and FAA’s requirements have been satisfactorily put in place. Normally, the FAA officials often conduct elaborate inspections on airport facilities before recommending it for certification. For the fact that an airport is being managed by privates businesses doesn’t indicate that the operational safety at the airport would improve more than natural or deteriorate. However, examples in recent years have shown that private owners of airports have invested so much in the airports with hope to make them attractive to passengers, and then make more money from other airport-related services (Wolfe & NewMyer, 1985). 2. Public Safety: Public safety can be simply defined as the processes undertaken by public and private establishments to protect the lives and property of ordinary people. At the airports, there are fire equipment, emergency medical aids staff and information staff to quickly help ordinary people that use the airport every time (Wells & Young, 2004). It is a good idea to have public safety procedures implemented at the airports because this practice would reduce the exposure of passengers to hazards and dangers. 3. Safety versus Security: It may true that there is sometimes an overlap between public safety and security at the airport. However, in a well-planned airport,

Respond post Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 3

Respond post - Essay Example Safety remains essential aspect in engineering. A company is trying to cut its production cost while comprising the safety of the user is a huge mistake, especially automobile company. The life of the driver of a vehicle is dependent on the efficiency the vehicle when the safety of the driver is not put into consideration while manufacturing the car, and it exposes the driver to any risk. Competing in a market where profit is incurred in cost reduction have result companies like GM not recall faulty cars in order to protect their market share from dropping.This method should not be the best when the business products involve human safety. There should be measure that control business operating in product that risk to human beings The business that is leaving the market due financial loss that lead them been bankrupt is questioning that has no answer. Many of these instances occur due to poor management. The business has failed in providing quality products. This obligation is neglected in search of financial gain. Customers are making their decision on purchases based on the value and quality. If a business fail to meet the demand, it is likely to have a drastic reduction in its sale. Business should put quality as a core of its operation to survive the dynamic

UAE and Oman labour laws Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

UAE and Oman labour laws - Essay Example UAE and Oman Labour Laws UAE is the second biggest by population in the GCC and the second biggest economy of the region and transshipment hub. It is the largest gas exporter in the world. On the other hand, Oman is relatively poor in the region and relies on the mineral industry. However, nationalization is highest in this country. The GCC countries have categorized employment visa into to maid visa, farming visa, and employment visa. A common feature in the region is that farmers and housemaids are not part of the labor laws. Officials issue employment visa to establishments and companies and bases it on the size and the company’s capital. ‘Hire and fire’ is the underlying principle of GCC countries (Latham & Watkins, 2009). These countries have nevertheless failed in establishing standards for migrant workers that are intentionally acceptable. Most of the GCC countries’ labor and immigration laws are famous for enhancing and validate inhuman treatment to wards migrant workers. For instance, the Khiraj (exit permit) is a requirement for employees who want to leave the region. The employer must grant the employee permission to leave the country. This is a common practice in the region with the exception of UAE and Kuwait. The employees do not have freedom to change their jobs unless they receive permission from their present employers (Latham & Watkins, 2009). Comparison of the UAE and Oman Labor Laws Statutory Authority In the UAE Federal Law No. 8 of 1980, Regulatory Labour Law Relations govern labor matters, which are simply the Labour Laws. In this country, the Ministry of Labour is the one charged with the responsibility of dealing with labour matters. While in Oman, regulation of labour matters are by Sultan’s Decree No. 35/2003. The state recently amended the statute in October 2011 by Royal Decree No. 113/2011. Unlike the UAE, in Oman the Ministry of Manpower is in charge of labor matters (Latham & Watkins, 2009). Worki ng hours Under the UAE Labour Law, eight hours is the set maximum working hours per day for an adult employee. After five consecutive hours of work, an employee gets to have a rest break. The working week is made of six days. On the other hand, for the Oman Labour Law provides for a five-day working week. The maximum working hours in a week are 45 hours (article 68 of the Oman Labour Law) as opposed to the 48 hours in the UAE (Latham & Watkins, 2009). The daily working hours for each employee is nine hours. During the month of Ramadan, the set maximum working hours per week are 30 hours per week. This means that one has to work for only five hours per day. Contrary to this, the UAE Labour Law sets 36 hours per week as the maximum working hours during the month of Ramadan (Latham & Watkins, 2009). However, the maximum number of hours worked per day is the same for both countries. About overtime, in accordance to the Oman Labour Law the maximum overtime per day is three hours. This is because an employee only receives a total of 12 hours to work per day. The UAE Labour Law provides that overtime hours should not exceed two hours per day. The exceptions for extended overtime hours include a case where the work to be done involves prevention of the occurrence of a serious loss or accident, or removal or

An analysis on leaderships’ effect on culture Essay Example for Free

An analysis on leaderships’ effect on culture Essay Facts ConnectCo is an outbound call center in Toronto, Ontario and is the Canadian Subsidiary of a U.S. marketing and sales consulting practice. The parent company has provided services to Fortune 500 companies over its five years of operations and employs approximately 75 people. ConnectCo has annual revenues of $29.4 million, with Symbol Office Solution as their biggest account at $20 million annually, for a contract length of three years. This contract awarded ConnectCo net profits as high as 35% of sales. What ConnectCo offers to clients is the convenience and cost savings of removing a costly field sales force and replaces them with a more cost efficient outbound call center. These call centers help customers with technical problems, provide new equipment updates, and disseminates knowledge about new technologies or equipment. The Symbol account, as previously mentioned, provides a significant sum of ConnectCo`s total revenue and was first negotiated by Charlie Gallagher, the vice-president of Canadian operations, and is managed by Chad Macdonald. Joe Davis is a passionate and experienced consultant that has worked closely with clients to identify and implement solutions to very specific problems. He joined ConnectCo hoping to learn from the pool of experience that he saw within the organization, with the majority of them being former Xerox employees with considerable knowledge in increasing sales. His role in the organization was to ensure that the level of service that ConnectCo provided met or surpassed the needs of clients. As per his position within the company he was the first to notice the discrepancy within the Symbol account. The contract that was signed between ConnectCo and Symbol required that there be a certain number of Inside Account Executives (IAE) that be trained at all times and at a phone making calls in the client`s interests. The recent decline in the IAE pool has left several seats open, with no calls being placed on behalf of Symbol, however they were still billing the customer as if the seats where all operating at full capacity while they should only be billing them for filled operators. The amount of the discrepancy totals $81000. The terms of the contract have been modified several times over its effective term with the first being an extension of the contract and the notice of intent to develop mutually agreed to service levels. Service level targets were never established. Symptoms The four factoring symptoms are communication, trust, accountability, responsibility and integrity. These symptoms are the leading cause for Connectco’s inability to run operations smoothly and effectively. The lack of communication within Connectco is causing headaches for Davis as information continues to be blocked by â€Å"noise† within the company. The communication is next to nonexistent from the top of the hierarchy to the department managers within the company. The lack of trust throughout the company is not helping their cause when trying to create an effective and demanded product for fortune 500 companies. There is little trust betwee the top managers and employees that they will complete their respected jobs at hand with the level of trust level between employees and managers decaying over time and as the situation worsens. Accountability is near nonexistent within the organization. Davis is not able to hold his manager accountable because of his past record in doing so. Accountability is crucial in order for Connectco to run smoothly in the future. Conflict frequently causes employees to look to offload their work onto others to not be responsible for failure, as in the case of Chad Macdonald passing the role of dealing with the Symbol account off to Joe Davis. Finally, there is little integrity. Dealing with the account neither Chad nor Charlie believe that the best solution would be to deal with the problem and would both prefer to make a decision that would go against the main values of the corporation that includes trustworthiness. There is a valid case of values incongruence within ConnectCo. These four main symptoms are major attributes to the problems faced within Connectco and are the four elements that may be the solutions to solving Connectco’s organizational problems in the near future. Problem Statement ConnectCo`s current situation is the direct result of the poor corporate culture as evidenced by the symptoms that are present. This culture stems from the leadership`s poor ethics and lack of values and has cascaded to the rest of the organization. Joe Davis, the new manager of the Planning and Reporting department for ConnectCo, began his new job about a month ago finds himself in the uncomfortable situation of questioning the morals of his coworkers that has led to the jeopardized relationship between ConnectCo and their largest client: Symbol Office Solutions. Joe must decide how to approach this conflicting situation as a new member of the company without compromising his own morals and values. Analysis In evaluating the relevant models to address the problem statement there is one model in particular that effectively incorporates several of the models needed to perform an analysis of the corporate culture at ConnectCo; Edgar H. Scheins Model of Organizational Culture. Schein’s model is the most relevant to identify the reason for the symptoms and problems currently facing ConnectCo. The incorporation of the many different aspects to identify the culture of an organization including atifacts, shared values, and shared assumptions enables a thorough review of the culture present at ConnectCo. The following analysis will break down Schein’s model and evaluate each section with the following relevant analysis to get a better understanding of the situation. It will be presented in the following order; artifacts, shared values, shared assumptions. Artifacts Communication within the ConnectCo organization does not represent the ideal scenario for a well-run organization. This lack of proper communication and clarity is unfortunately spilling over into its business dealings with clients. Both represent one of the most evident aspects of the artifacts of the company, the cultural norms that are evident to others and neither is impressive. To begin, this analysis will focus on internal communication and then shift focus to the external communication with other organizations. â€Å"Davis opened up a new message and types a simple e-mail, in case Gallagher picked it up with his Blackberry†. This is but one example of the many e-mail conversations that take place within the ConnectCo organization. The situation that ConnectCo finds themselves in is extremely complicated, owing a client a credit for $81000, yet the medium with which Joe Davis chose to use to relay his message was e-mail. A quick analysis of the media richness hierarchy model shows that in this particular situation, which can be easily identified as non-routine and ambiguous, this medium carries too little data-carrying capacity. If ConnectCo is going to come up with a solution they are going to need to switch to a much richer medium such as face-to-face to get a better understanding of the issue and come up with better outcomes. A second occasion that warrants investigation is the initial email from Joe Davis to Charlie Gallagher. In this initial email he again used to wrong medium to convey the breadth of the issue that is ambiguous and non-routine. Charlie chose to respond in an email as well, with nine words. This will play a factor again in the analysis of the shared values, more specifically the espoused values that leadership (Gallagher) conveys. Communication between the organizations is also very weak, speaking to the weak cultural artifacts of the ConnectCo organization, and possibly Symbol. It has been acknowledged that they do indeed have face to face communications with their customers, Gallagher does meet with Puhl for golfing events face to face, this does not represent an ideal time, however, as the venue is much to informal to discuss business matters as public meetings contain significant noise, literally and figuratively, that may lead to the message being decoded incorrectly. The rest of the communication between the two parties, even between the account relationship manager Chad MacDonald and Steve Puhl was done either by telephone or by email. Another aspect of the artifacts of communication that deserves attention is the construction of the contract. Again, the communication process model is most relevant and one of the simplest ways to word the breakdown is that the contract contained too much noise and was not properly decoded by ConnectCo. The ambiguity of the contract comes from many revisions, some of which were not even available to the relevant employees such as Joe Davis and using words such as â€Å"notwithstanding† which was interpreted differently by Joe Davis, Chad MacDonald, and Charlie Gallagher. This occurred because the contract was not descriptive enough. Another aspect to the artifacts portion of the model of organizational culture is the ceremonies that take place within the organization. These ceremonies are used by certain employees and management to get the attention of an audience. In this particular situation the most evident are the golfing trips that Gallagher takes with clients to cement his position as the most important contact to the clients. And finally, the organizational structure, which has a great effect on culture. ConnectCo currently has a client structure, as negotiated within the contract agreement, the organization will maintain a set number of staff specifically to service that account. Espoused Values â€Å"Our values reflect what is important to us. They are a shorthand way of describing our individual and collective motivations. Together with beliefs, they are the causal factors that drive our decision-making.† (http://www.valuescentre.com/values/?sec=values_overview) The above quote reflects what should be the core of any business, the values shared by all of the different employees congruent to the plan laid out by management for the success of the organization. In Schein`s model shared or espoused values represent the second of the 3 components and the first of the invisible dynamics, as in they cannot be easily observed by others. Richard Barrett, author of Building a Values-Driven Organisation: A Whole System Approach to Cultural Transformation believes that values can be either positive or negative and each can have an equal and opposite effect on the corporations culture. The espoused values must begin as an individual value through some authority figure, such as a founder, senior management, or even an individual with significant power within an organization. These individuals` culture then influences their immediate coworkers, the teams with which they operate, then the organization as a whole. These individuals can therefore set the values for the whole organization regardless of what the dominant culture of the organization through countercultures. The culture of an organisation, or any group of individuals that share a common identity, is a reflection of the values and beliefs of the leaders. (http://www.valuescentre.com/leadership/?sec=leadership__culture) With limited information on the dominant culture of ConnectCo as established by its American head company, which include integrity and trustworthiness, it can only be assumed that the culture that prevails at Connectco is a subculture of the organization as a whole. The following analysis suggests that the counterculture present in ConnectCo is the direct result of the actions of Charlie Gallagher. As the leader in the organization Charlie has had a profound effect on the values and ethics present within the organization. His handling of the Symbol account clearly demonstrates his values and ethics. His position as leader and culture setter warrants investigation based on several components. First, the competency of his leadership will be analyzed incorporating an analysis of his personal values and the source of his power. To begin, Charlie possesses several characteristics of an effective leader. He has significant self-concept, his personality skills are high, he has the motivation to be a leader, and significant knowledge of the business. These competencies push those that work for him to have the same skills as demonstrated in Chad MacDonald; however, his low integrity has also been transmitted to other co-workers. By encouraging Davis to p lay with the numbers and do things that were out of the contract he shows his low integrity. This has led to a lack of trust that is evident from Joe Davis and several other members of the ConnectCo staff throughout the handling of the symbol account. This is not the only negative quality that has displayed. Gallagher also exhibits limited cognitive and practical intelligence. His recommendation to simply `go with the lowest cost` shows a lack of understanding of the situation (and going back to communication) the ambiguity of the situation , this has pervaded to his employees where Chad was more than willing to agree to a band aid solution going against ethical business practices. Neither fully understands the situation and Chad was more than happy to hand off the problem to Joe Davis even though he was the relationship manager on the account and dealing with clients is outside of the scope of work for Joe Davis. The reason for Gallagher`s lack of integrity can be easily explained through the Swartz values circumplex. Clearly, Gallagher is more focused on self-enhancement, his need for achievement is evidenced through the fact that everyone must know that he is the one that negotiated the Symbol account and demonstrated through his golf business trips, as well as his refusal to accept responsibility for poorly negotiating a contract and failing to adhere and communicate the contents of the contracts that he signed. He is also a leader that craves power and prefers significant power distance, as proven by his screening of his employees’ calls and not showing up to the meeting with Joe Davis and Chad MacDonald to clarify the contract for them. Both of these values compromise his integrity and unfortunately those values are only two that his leadership has caused the rest of the organization to adopt, the need for security security being another. Gallagher`s aforementioned need for power is also affecting the culture of the organization. His handling of the Symbol account and the contract shows that he uses a wheel formation of information control to maintain power within the organization. By him going golfing with the big shots at Symbol rather than relationship manager Chad, shows that he needs to maintain that control of information which in turn gives him control over Chad and the account. This is combined with Joe Davis` perception of an upward appeal within the organization that made him rethink his ability to go to the higher ups with the information because he believes that the management will take the side of Gallagher given that they are both MBA graduates. Fear is an influence tactic that Gallagher has wielded to maintain order and obedience from his employees through his connection with the president. The effect on culture is that because employees cannot contact upper management the values that he imposes on the organization will be the ones that dictate how operations are carried out. Indirectly, this is what has causes the problem with ConnectCo and Symbol. Gallagher controlling the information has prevented Chad from acting in the best interest of the company to ensure the contract is followed and that there are no issues. It also means that now since the contract has not been followed the persons involves will use the cultural aspects of poor integrity and dodging that he has used with his employees as Chad demonstrated by dodging Steve Puhl and pushing the problem onto Joe Davis. Shared Assumptions and Values Analysing the shared assumptions of ConnectCo with the Schwartz’s Values Circumplex, we notice that the company talks about wanting to keep their most important client Symbol satisfied by valuing self-transcendence and conservation however their actions and dealing of the contract with Symbol do not reflect those values. The appropriate way to describe the values that ConnectCo tend to go by is self-enhancing. They are working for the client to provide them with everything listed in the contract, in this case a sufficient amount of IAEs, but are hiding information from Symbol to protect their own well-being. This seems to be enforced by Charlie Gallagher as he is telling Joe Davis that they should not have to pay any penalty fees to Symbol for empty seats at the IAE position if there are current individuals in training for that position. Now we will look at the ethical values and behaviour the moral intensity of ConnectCo, more specifically Charlie Gallagher’s ethical s ensitivity to the issue. The degree to which they should be applying ethical principles should be is high because Symbol is their biggest client and has trusted ConnectCo for a few years. However, the intensity being put forth is minimal as they are trying to get out of paying money to Symbol for not having staffed enough IAE’s and they are forcing Joe Davis to go against his values and follow suit. This shows how little Charlie Gallagher cares about ethically conducting operations with clients and co-workers, as Joe Davis is being pressured into complying with Charlie’s demand because he does not want to risk losing his job even though what Charlie is telling him to do is illegal. Taking a look at the conflict process model we find our sources of conflict between, Gallagher, Davis and Steve Puhl from Symbol. The most obvious source is the communication between Gallagher and Puhl. First of all the contract between the two is too vague and open for interpretation as the service level targets have not been defined for almost two years. Charlie is also not communicating the issue of his understanding of the contract, as he is just assuming that they should not have to pay Symbol credit for not having the specified amount of IAE’s because he is claiming that during those times they had individuals in training to fill those positions. Another issue is that even if what Gallagher interpreted was true, he does not have any data to prove that he had employees in training because he failed to communicate to Chad MacDonald, Joe Davis and to Carole Lam the exact details of the contract. This puts Joe in a uncomfortable situation when he receives a call from Steve Puhl and is unsure what the contract requirements. Another source of conflict is the incompatible goals and differentiation between Charlie and Joe. Joe is simply trying to do the right thing because he is new to the company and wants to make a good impression by doing things ethically however Charlie is trying to make it seem like he is fulfilling the terms of the contract by making assumptions of the contract to get away with not having to pay Symbol their deserved credit. Another source of conflict is the scarcity of important resources. As mentioned previously Carole Lam the analyst was never told to keep data on the amount of days and which days that employees were in training. Joe needed this data to complete his work but obviously was unable to retrieve complete and accurate data on employee training. The way that Charlie seems to be handling this conflict is by avoiding communication with clients and co-workers. He is notorious for screening calls, he failed to show up to a meeting with Chad MacDonald and Joe Davis, and when asked how to calculate the credit owed to Symbol he simply tells Davis to use the lowest cost to save ConnectCo money and make himself look good. He also does not seem to be of much help to Joe Davis as Gallagher is the one who began this lack of communication which has led to faulty handling of Symbol’s credit account, and seems to be avoiding Joe Davis. This is causing the rest of the employees to obey his ideas beca use they have no idea what the contract actually calls for and even if they did know, would likely be unwilling to challenge his decisions because he is higher up in the company. Alternatives Alternative #1: Bring these numbers and issues to the President and CEO Pros| Cons| * Issues dealing with the Symbol account get addressed * Issues with the culture of the organization get addressed * Issues are addressed to an authority that can fix these problems and remove the negative counterculture * Keeps the organization from committing accounting fraud like other companies (Enron) * Brings to light all the ethical issues surrounding Charlie Gallagher and Chad MacDonald * Addresses turnover issues that have become routine in the company| * This act could cause tension between Joe and his direct superior (Gallagher) * There is a risk that the President sees this act as disloyal * Working with Gallagher and MacDonald after bringing their issues to light will be difficult moving forward * President/CEO may share the same dysfunctional attitude towards the culture in the organization| This alternative should include him making an appointment with the President/CEO and bringing analyst Carole Lam to help support his findings. She is well aware with the financial numbers and how Gallagher is letting ConnectCo take money from their top client. This meeting needs to be face-to-face in order to bring about the severity of the conflicting situation. The meeting needs to include all facets of the organizations current lack of corporate ethical values and which individuals must be held accountable. Joe must conclude that if there are immediate corporate culture changes, he would still like to keep working with Gallagher and MacDonald and build a trusting and functional working relationship with both. This will help ease the tension between himself and his immediate superior as well as showing the President that he is capable of handling mismanagement. This alternative is highly recommended and addresses all the facets of this situation. Alternative #2: Quit and find another job Pros| Cons| * Joe no longer has to deal with the resoundingly shaky ethical structure and poor communication at ConnectCo * Joe doesn’t become a â€Å"part of the problem† * Joe no longer has to deal with Gallagher’s lack of trust and consideration with their top clientele at his cost * Joe doesn’t become an accomplice to committing accounting fraud| * Leaving an organization after only one month doesn’t look good to future prospective employers * This would go against his newly engaged fiancà ©e who wanted to see him â€Å"get off the road† * No severance package * No recommendation or verbal support from ConnectCo once he leaves| This alternative does not come recommended as it leaves Joe and ConnectCo with an uncertain future. Should Joe decide to leave the company, he would not get a severance package and future employers will wonder why he lasted only a month at his previous job making it more difficult to find employment opportunities. Also, his fiancà ©e did not want his moving around for work a lot and two jobs in less than two months will leave his situation at home stressful. Also, should prospective employers contact ConnectCo, they would have no reason to support Joe for his limited work. Although Joe does not have to deal with this poor corporate culture, running away from the situation does not help in any positive way. Alternative #3: Try to resolve issue without Chad MacDonald or Charlie Gallagher Pros| Cons| * Helps ease relationship between ConnectCo and Symbol * Steve Puhl does not have to deal with Chad (who he is getting nowhere with) * Joe can try to incorporate cultural changes to those he can * Has Carole Lam to help him fix the financial disparities of the comapny| * Leaving Chad and Charlie in the dark is risky * Steve Puhl may accidently contact Chad or Charlie and miscommunication may occur * Does not address how to fix the imminent turnover issues surrounding the IAE’s * Not reporting these changes with his superior could cost him his job| Because Joe handles the reporting side of the company, it would go against his responsibilities as an employee to bring up any new information regarding Symbol and can be subject to his employment being terminated if Gallagher was to find out. This alternative is incredibly risky, but does see some rewards. These rewards include easing the relationship between ConnectCo and Symbol and slowly changing the culture in the corporation as best he can. Unfortunately, he is only just a manager and a new one, so it would be hard for him to get others to respond to his command when there hasn’t been enough relationship development between his other employees. With this in mind, it is best to look at other alternatives. Recommendation Our recommendation is based off of Alternative #1, in which we suggest brining the financial statements and issues to the attention of the President and CEO. This will allow us to ensure that all problems in relation to the Symbol account and the culture of the organization are addressed accordingly. This will also shed light on the ethical issues that need to be addressed, surrounding Gallagher and MacDonald. As well, it will prevent any consequences from occurring, resulting from accounting fraud. Once Joe Davis meets with the President and CEO to inform them of his findings, it will be up to the President to create and urgency for change within the organization. In order to implement this change we would recommend the use of Lewin’s Force Field Analysis Model. By implementing this model the President could unfreeze the current situation, change the organizational culture and ethics of the company, and then freeze the company in that state. By doing so the company would chan ge into operating with a more socially responsible client first attitude. By creating urgency for change the President could use client satisfaction as a driving force to push the employees, in order to ensure each client receives the customer service they deserve. By ensuring the client is always receiving social and ethical treatment, it will drive away any restraining forces, such as lack of integrity, which can be attributed to the accounting fraud. Now we can consider how the President could unfreeze and re-freeze the company in order to complete the change. The President should focus on creating an adaptive culture, in which the company will have an external focus. By creating an external focus the employees will realize that the organizations success depends on continuous change to be a more stakeholder and client oriented company. In this situation it means focusing on changing into a more socially and ethically aware organization to better serve the clients. There is also an internal focus that must be implemented as well. This includes employees working towards the organizational goals that are set. In this situation the organizational goals would be to provide better customer service. As well by creating an adaptive culture, employees would have a stronger sense of ownership within the organization, and therefore take more responsibility for their performance and tasks. Therefore we believe that since a company’s culture often reflects the leader’s personality, it really is up to the President to make the steps necessary to change the organization. One final step we would recommend taking, is to fire Charlie Gallagher. The basis of firing Gallagher is the fact that he was trying to commit accounting fraud. Therefore the company would have just cause for his dismissal. By firing Gallagher, this would also be the first step towards creating a socially and ethically driven company; Gallagher is simply a restraining force that is preventing the organization from making that move towards a better organizational culture. Action Plan Our recommendation is often referred to as whistle blowing, which is when a company employee goes public or to his superiors with private information that could hurt the company. This technique is usually used when social and ethical responsibilities are being neglected or ignored. While it may seem simple enough, the process is far from smooth and the employee doing the whistle blowing is often made out to be a burnt out low level employee who is unhappy. So before Joe does anything of the sort he must be prepared for anything to happen. The best way to approach this alternative would be: 1. Collect all relevant information and be prepared to present your case and be able to answer any and all questions 2. No president of CEO wants to hear that their company’s values and ethics are being compromised, so he must prepare a plan B in order to protect himself from media and personal scrutiny. 3. Joe must schedule a face-to-face meeting with the CEO to ensure that there is no outs ide noise or misinterpretations with his information and language 4. When presenting his findings, Joe must deliver his message in a way that is not an attack or critique. He must not point out what is wrong but what needs to be improved and why. 5. As part of his presentation Joe needs to incorporate his own recommendations and action plan. Once he goes through with this meeting there is not turning back. The recommendation and action plan should follow a similar tone to what was mentioned above, it should not only identify the problems but what needs to be done to fix them and how to go about fixing them. 6. After the meeting is over all Joe can do is wait for the decisions by the CEO and board of governors. At this point in time a lot of different things can happen and Joe needs to be prepared for any outcome. The optimistic outcome would be to have your action plan ready to implement and begin fixing the company. The pessimistic outcome would be that they reject his action plan and making his career a nightmare. If this were the case Joe should be prepared to look for another job, or be prepared to defend himself from public scrutiny. Joe is caught in the middle of a lose-lose situation, so his best alternative is the lesser of two evils. It is difficult being the new guy in a company, especially when you’re the one telling that what they are doing is wrong. However, sometimes it takes an outside perspective to identify the problems that have gone unnoticed for too long. If Joe can present a clear and strong case that does not personally offend the CEO, and present the opportunities for improvement, the process should run as smooth as possible.

Effects of Drugs and Alcohol to the Body Essay Example for Free

Effects of Drugs and Alcohol to the Body Essay The effects of drugs and alcohol may vary on the kind of drug, the dosage, the frequency, the persons’ body element and metabolism, and the type of personality. According to the American Academy of child and adolescent psychiatry, 20 million adults in the United States abused alcohol and half of these abusers were teenagers. Teens usually perceive drugs and alcohols as a solution to their problems, to gain popularity, to become active, to have pleasure and at times due to curiosity and peer pressure. They simply disregard the fact that this will only harm their bodies, mess up their entire lives, and could even lead them to death. The effects of these substances are danger to human brain and body. Drugs are considered pervasive. It compromises the ability of the body to function well. It affects both physical and psychological aspects. Over consumption or tolerance to this effect can lead to physiological problem. Pathophysiology traces alcohol primarily on blood. Because alcohols are permeable to the cell membrane of the body, it can easily diffuse to the bloodstream and causes â€Å"blood-sludging† of which blood vessels are being plug up while the tissues and oxygen of the body are being starve, thus causing cell death. Further breaking of the blood vessels and cell death causes malfunction of the system of the body causing excessive bleeding or hemorrhage, predisposing factor of cancer and leading to death. Other effect of high concentration alcohol level on the blood is the depletion of red and white blood count which is the main component of the blood. Common blood disorders are anemia, bone marrow depression, and inability to fight infections. The first step in alcohol abuse treatment is detoxification. A doctor will give a prescription for one to have a high dose of medication for the first day of not drinking alcohol. In the succeeding days of the week, the patient will slowly lessen the dose of the medicine. The medicine usually reduces withdrawal symptoms â€Å"A breathalyser may be used to confirm that you are not drinking† (http://www.patient.co.uk/showdoc/27000488/What is detoxification?). It is important for the patient to have the support of his family amidst his medication process in order for him to gain motivation and inspiration. In treating drug addicts, it is advised for them to undergo Cognitive behavior therapy. This kind of therapy is also used in treating alcohol abuse. Many drugs and alcohol users are from a situation of hardships and problems in life. They find drugs and alcohol as coping mechanism. â€Å"Cognitive behavior therapy is based on the idea that feelings and behaviors are caused by a persons thoughts, not on outside stimuli like people, situations and events† (http://alcoholism.about.com/od/effect/The_Effects_of_Alcohol_and_Drugs.htm). In this kind of therapy, the therapist will make the patient recognized the situations and reasons why he is taking drugs and alcohol. The first thing taught in this therapy is how to do away from situations like those and how they can cope with it. The Cognitive Therapy may lasts until 12 sessions or depending upon the progress of the patient. Again, family support is vital in the process of treatment. BIBLIOGRAPHY Dunlap, M. P.. Biological Impacts Of Alcohol Use: An Overview. Retrieved August 6, 2007 from http://www.oregoncounseling.org/ArticlesPapers/Documents/ETOHBIOFx.htm Effects of Alcohol on the Body. Retrieved August 6, 2007 from http://www.therightmix.gov.au/pdfs/EffectsOnBody.pdf Teens: Alcohol and other Drugs. Retrieved August 6, 2007 from http://www.aacap.org/page.ww?section=Facts+for+Familiesname=Teens%3A+Alcohol+And+Other+Drugs Alcohol detoxification. Rtrieved August 8, 2007 http://www.patient.co.uk/showdoc/27000488/What is detoxification? http://alcoholism.about.com/od/effect/The_Effects_of_Alcohol_and_Drugs.htm

Occupational Safety Analysis for Pilot

Occupational Safety Analysis for Pilot For a pilot, there are many risks in his working environment to which he is exposed to. A pilot while operating an airplane might be exposed to ultraviolet radiations, ambient noise, various communicable diseases etc. The main aim of Occupational Safety and Health Act 1970 was majorly towards a safer and healthier working environment that could be insured for the workers (association, 2012). The main reasons for which Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) were created was for development and enforcement of health and safety norms and standards for the workplace. OSHA works to provide employers and airline industry workers with information and assistance to help create a healthy and safe working environment.Under this act it is the responsibility of the employer to provide a safe and healthy workplace which is free from serious recognized hazards to all its employees. According to Canada Labor Code (the Code) it is required that employers under federal jurisdiction provide their employees for health and safety of their lives. There are many committees for the purpose of ensuring healthier and safer working environment also there is a representative who is being appointed for the same purpose concerned to health and safety . The Canada Labor Code also provides that a health and safety officer should be appointed by the labor minister . The officer has investigation right to investigate upon the workplace conditions and various related issues towards health and safety of employees and the officer can also recommend noncompliance prosecution . The Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSH Act) 1970 was created for ensuring safe and healthy working environment for all workers in The United States (OSHA, 2010) . The OSH led to the establishment of The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) for the purpose with authority to develop and enforce desirable standards for health and safety in the workplace. Under the OSH act there was also establishment of The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) as an active Disease Control and Prevention centers. NIOSH is responsible for conducting various researches and for providing recommendations with regard to workplace for the prevention of injuries and illness. There are many environmental hazards to which the flight deck crews are found to be exposed to, one of them is galactic radiation; which is very much harmful with exposure to higher level of altitudes and latitudes. It has been indicated by studies that there is an increase in malignancies with increasing exposure among the flight crew members. Another hazard to which they are exposed to is ozone, which at typical flight levels might exceed the federal limits. It can even cause headaches and some kind of respiratory illness, it has even been even linked to cancer. Airborne contagious diseases if exposed to is also a health threat, which can be caused if being exposed either to passengers or to crew members and can be even caused by making use of contaminated oxygen mask. Apart from these environmental hazards, there are many operational conditions to which flight crew members might be exposed to over a period of time, that could be harmful to health. For example, for pilots combating fatigue is the matter of constant battle, in various short haul operations with mainly short flight legs (Geneva, 2013) . It has been determined by the FAA that the workplace for on-board crew members in civil,commercial aircrafts is different significantly from the non-aviation workers’s workplace and the FAA must take up steps for setting up regulations for the purpose of addressing these concerns. The regulations and guidance material has been issued by the FAA that affect the flight attendants workplace and the workplace of other persons for whom his workplace is an aircraft in operation. This kind of regulatory material pays attention towards addressing protective equipment of breathing for crew members; crew members’s emergency exits; seat belts for crew members ; characteristics of various materials in the workplace of crew member ; reducing noise; smoke evacuation; concentration of carbon monoxide, cabin zone and carbon dioxide; proper heating, ventilation, and pressurization; proper availability of required first aid, various medical equipment, protective gloves; and interference with the crew members to be prohibited. FAA advisory materials also addresse the issues related to exposure to radiation of the crew members, first-aid programs in an air-carrier, and blood borne pathogens exposure. The FAA has not yet enforced regulations and adequate guidance material for addressing safety and health issues that are associated with the working conditions in an aircraft for employees, even including the flight deck crew. The mission of FAA’s Aerospace Medicine (AAM) office is to enhance safety of aerospace through surveillance, education, medical standards, research and prevention of illness. The AAM, headed by the federal air surgeon, under the oversight of the associate administrator for aviation safety has a vision for promoting aviation safety for the American public and many people who are totally relying upon the aviation industry for business, pleasure, and commerce. The Civil Aerospace Medical Institute (CAMI), of the FAA is located in Oklahoma, is an occupation, medical certification, education,research wing of Aerospace Medicine. The FAA has developed various health standards to ensure the safety of all crew members and all people who fly. It is necessary that all aviators should be medically certified to be fit to fly; annually about a half million of medical certificates have been issued. The FAA and OSHA, signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) at the urging of Congress in which they agreed that both the FAA and OSHA would work collectively in the airline industry to enhance their employee safety and health. Both the FAA and OSHA in the MOU have agreed to the establishment of a procedure for employees working conditions in operation in the airline. In the MOU, an aircraft has been defined by the FAA as being â€Å"in operation† from the time the first crew member boards it in preparation for flight till the time after completion of flight last crew member leaves that flight. It has been recognized by the MOU that for the FAA and OSHA it is very important to work together in order to ensure that one agency does not block the other agency’s regulations application unnecessarily. The FAA and OSHA have been called by MOU for the establishment of a procedure for enforcing OSH through proper coordinating and supporting each other. Act with regard to improving upon the working conditions of employees in operation in aircraft and resolving various jurisdictional questions has been required. A team of representatives of FAA and OSHA is required to identify the factors which are to be considered for determining OSH requirements that can be applied to the employees working condition on aircraft in operation . It is required by the Congress that the FAA should promote the use of U.S. airspace in a safe and efficient way. CAMI promotes aviation safety through various number of medical education programs of aerospace. The Occupational Safety and Health Act and Executive Order Occupational Safety and Health Programs for Federal Employees is responsible for mandating theses programs. They even provide professional advice and advice related to technical knowledge to various federal air surgeons and various other officials of agency . Bibliography association, A. p. (2012). Enhancing Pilots’ Occupational Safety. Washington. Geneva, I. l. (2013). Kenya. OSHA, F. /. (2010). Application of OSHA’s Requirements to Employees on Aircraft in Operation.

Professional Advertising Agency and British Airways Promotional Campai

A Professional Advertising Agency Contributes to British Airways' Promotional Campaign A professional campaign can contribute to a promotional campaign in many ways which could help BA to establish a stronger message to the public, an advertising agency depending on its experience in dealing with big company like BA can contribute a professional handling of all BA’s advertising needs. This means handling BA’s advertising campaign from start till finish, the agency even deals with the expenses of their clients promotional campaign. An agency guarantees a professional and fresh approach to advertising because a big company like BA who handles its own advertising after years can run out of ideas, that’s where a professional agency comes into picture it enables the company to offload some of its advertising responsibilities so that the business can focus on other aspects of the company without having to worry about their promotional campaign. An advertising agency can contribute to their clients in terms of successful promotional campaign by helping their clients to: Â · Use innovative approach – this means an agency can help a company to look at other aspect of approaching customers, other ways of getting the message across. An agency can make a company more effective in communicating with customers. Â · Plan media – this means an advertising agency also contributes key areas such as media selection. Advertising agency also involves around media planni...

The Significance of The Blue Dress in Hurston’s Their Eyes Were Watchin

The Significance of The Blue Dress in Hurston’s Their Eyes Were Watching God and Seraph on the Suwanee Their Eyes Were Watching God: Janie (talking to Phoebe about Tea Cake): â€Å"He done taught me de maiden language all over. Wait till you see de new blue satin Tea Cake done picked out for me tuh stand up wid him in. High heel slippers, necklace, earrings, everything he wants tuh see me in. Some of dese mornin’s and it won’t be long, you gointuh wake up callin’ me and Ah’ll be gone.† (pp. 109-10) Seraph on the Suwanee: â€Å"Over her mother’s outraged protests, Arvay put on the blue mull dress the next day. She thought that it was very becoming to her looks. She was ready away ahead of time, but ate no dinner. She was excited and curious about this buggy ride, and besides her corset was laced very tight. She put on the new leghorn-intention hat with the big pink rose on the floppy brim and waited.† (pp. 47-8) Two impatient brides-to-be, puttin’ on the blue dress – but what different wedding nights and marriages await them. From the moment Janie and Tea Cake meet in Chapter 10, they delight in each other’s company and conversation. By Chapter 12, Janie joyfully acknowledges him as her partner and her teacher. His â€Å"lessons† consist not of imparting new information, but of reinstructing Janie â€Å"all over again† in something that she formerly possessed: â€Å"de maiden language.† This phrase recalls the biblical origins of the world (â€Å"In the beginning, there was the Word†), suggesting that through her relationship with Tea Cake, Janie’s own world and even her relation to the cosmos are being reordered. â€Å"Language† also refers to the verbal delight that Janie and Tea Cake take in each other. In contrast with Arvay and Jim, whose communi... ...e can, however, signal her virginal status by dressing in a way that represents its equivalent: as a southern belle. In addition to her low-cut blue dress, with its feminine, puffed sleeves, Arvay wears a floppy-brimmed â€Å"leghorn-intention† (straw hat), decorated with a â€Å"big pink rose† (suggestive of reproduction). Most tellingly, we are told that she is wearing a corset that is â€Å"laced very tight† – so tight that she cannot eat her dinner. Corsets hold in the flesh and nip in the waistline to an attractively small diameter. By narrowing the waist, they emphasize the swellings of the hips and breasts, a contrast intended to stimulate sexual arousal. Thus Arvay’s wedding/reception attire emphasizes her fragility and innocence while highlighting her desirability. The clothing signs her as an object for consumption, rather than celebrates her as a beautiful companion.

compression :: essays research papers

Due to compression, TV audio and video require less bandwidth and multiple digital TV channels can fit unto one satellite transponder as oppose to a single analogue channel occupying the whole transmission line. A TV signal is captured by a camera and then manipulated during program production. At this point the video must be at its highest quality and full bandwidth for recording, editing and special effects purposes. Then the TV signal needs to be compressed for economical transmission and storage. The possible efficiency of compression depends on a couple of factors. If a signal will be further edited and manipulated in the receiving studio it must maintain a relatively high quality and therefore can’t be compressed as much as a signal that will be sent directly to the viewer’s TV set. Also, the extent to which a signal can be successfully compressed depends on the type of program (E.g. movies can be compressed more than sports). Nevertheless, a typical program mix will fit up to 10 digital television channels on one transmission line. Furthermore, compression techniques that fall into two categories: lossless (reversible, no data loss) and lossy (irreversible, greater data reduction). Effective compression is best achieved with a combination of data reduction techniques such as bit rate reduction and compression. The difference is that bit rate reduction eliminates unnoticeable data, and compression removes unnecessary and excessive data through mathematical algorithms. Due to different forms of redundancy and the fact that the human visual system is unable to detect certain details, information can be altered or removed causing changes that are imperceptible to the human eye or brain. After compression, the structure data, audio and video must be multiplexed. A number of compressed TV signals are combined by a multiplexer and put unto a shared transition medium. This is done by one of the two possible kinds of multiplexers that result in either a transport or a program stream, which is suited for secure transmission paths since it can contain large amounts of information. In addition multiplexing can be done using various methods. Time division multiplexing allocates a distinct time interval for each channel in a set; with the help of synchronization and a fixed interval order the channels take turns using the common line.

Thorn Queen Chapter Twenty-One

I woke up the next morning, lying on top of my covers, with sunlight streaming in through the eastern windows. It was barely sunrise, but already the air was warming up. It was, as the saying went, going to be a hot one. If I truly was connected with the land, I wondered what a heat wave said about my mood. Was it indicative of my preparedness for battle? I squinted up at the play of sunlight on the stone ceiling, unsure of that question, just like so many lately. With a sigh, knowing I needed to get up, I rolled over and came face-to-face with Kiyo. I yelped in surprise. His dark chocolate eyes were open, wide awake. I think he'd been watching me while I slept. He smiled that sexy, smoky smile of his, eyes crinkling slightly. He was bare-chested, clad only in navy blue boxers. â€Å"When did you get here?† I asked. â€Å"I didn't notice a thing.† â€Å"I know,† he said. â€Å"You were sleeping pretty heavy. Didn't even budge when I slid into bed.† He rested a hand on my hip and slid it along my bare leg. I'd fallen asleep in a T-shirt. Seeing his eyes and feeling his hand on my skin warmed something in me. Surely all would be right in the world-worlds, even-so long as I had Kiyo. There was just something so overwhelmingly strong and secure about him, a steadiness in the midst of that dangerous sex appeal. I reached out and touched the side of his face, a bit surprised at just how happy I was to have him here with me. â€Å"I didn't know for sure that you'd come,† I admitted. â€Å"Eugenie, how can you think that?† He continued stroking my leg, but his other arm pulled me close. â€Å"I said I would. I won't let you go into danger alone.† â€Å"I know you don't approve of some of the things I do. Roland doesn't. We had a huge fight.† Kiyo kissed my forehead, then my nose, and then my lips. â€Å"He's worried about you. I am too. But I understand what you have to do here and why you want to help these people.† I looked at him and felt something lighten up within me, some lonely and aching part that so desperately needed someone to get me. Before, I'd felt like Dorian could. I prayed Kiyo was able to as well. â€Å"You do?† â€Å"Yes.† He kissed me again, his mouth warm and searching. The hand that had been on my leg moved up to my breast. â€Å"I know what it's like to live in two worlds. You're brave and do what you think is right, and I'm not going to let anything happen to you,† he breathed in my ear. â€Å"Neither are any of the people gathered downstairs.† He moved his mouth back to mine, but I wiggled out. â€Å"Wai-what? Who's gathered?† He gave a half shrug, hands still roving over my body. â€Å"Everyone. Rurik's got the guards there. Jasmine's up and cuffed. Even Dorian's here.† I sat up. â€Å"Kiyo! We have to get downstairs then. We can't-ah.† He'd moved one hand up my inner thigh-up, up, and up. â€Å"We've got time.† â€Å"No†¦we†¦don't,† I managed as his fingers moved in and out of me. For a moment, I thought of how Dorian had done almost exactly the same thing, but then I shoved the memory away. â€Å"They're waiting†¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"Five minutes, Eugenie,† Kiyo murmured. His other hand shoved up my shirt, and he leaned down to kiss one of my breasts, slowly moving on to suck the nipple, harder and harder. I flinched slightly at the feel of his teeth, and he lifted his face up. â€Å"I've missed you, Eugenie, no matter what else you think. I've missed you and I love you.† He slid his fingers out of me, and I whimpered at their loss. He smiled. â€Å"And I think†¦I think maybe you missed me too†¦Ã¢â‚¬  And with no other preamble, he rolled me over to my knees and moved up behind me. I don't know when his boxers came off, but suddenly, he was in me, hard and swollen and grunting with each thrust. I gripped the sheets with my fists, keeping my body arched for him so that he could take me even deeper. His hands clutched my hips, letting him bury himself as far as he could go. I moaned and tipped my head back, my body wanting to take more and more of him into me. Leaning his body over mine, he reached forward and managed to cup my breasts without breaking his rhythm. His fingers caressed them, thumbs rubbing against the erect nipples. The sensations in my body were dizzying, every piece of me feeling like it was on fire. At last he shifted back to his kneeling position and returned his hands to my hips, giving him the best position to fully take me. His strokes grew even harder and faster, shoving himself into me with such force that I could hear our bodies hitting each other. With a great groan, his nails dug into my hips and his whole body jerked as he came. Hands still tight on my hips, he held himself there for several moments, taking his full release. Finally, he pulled away and collapsed onto the bed. Flipping over, I sprawled beside him. â€Å"Okay,† I gasped. â€Å"Now I think I'm ready to fight some demons.† I don't think anyone really noticed that Kiyo and I had just had sex when we came downstairs. Mercifully, it didn't even rain. If anyone suspected anything, it was Dorian, with that uncanny way he had of reading people. The guards were drawn up in formation outside, but Dorian was in the parlor sipping tea with Shaya while Ysabel all but sprawled on his lap. Girard was there as well, testing the weight of Dorian's old sword while Dorian himself studied the drawing of the new sword. â€Å"Eugenie,† said Dorian, arching an eyebrow. â€Å"Don't you look radiant this morning. Why, you're positively glowing.† Ysabel scowled at his praise. â€Å"It's the leather,† I said, tugging self-consciously at my shirt. I'd argued against needing armor, but Shaya had nonetheless obtained a sleeveless top for me made of lightweight leather, good for deflecting blades. It wasn't porn-star leather or anything, but it wasn't something I was used to. â€Å"And this,† Dorian continued, pointing to the drawing, â€Å"is exquisite. Thank you.† â€Å"What is it?† asked Kiyo. â€Å"A sword from legends. One to slay evildoers everywhere. Eugenie's having it made for me.† Kiyo gave me a wordless look that was nonetheless full of questions. â€Å"It's a thank-you gift. Dorian's done me a lot of favors lately,† I explained. â€Å"I assure you,† said Dorian straight-faced. â€Å"I take as much joy in the giving as you do in the receiving.† â€Å"Okay,† I said hastily. â€Å"Are we good to go? I saw the guards out there. I'd like this done sooner rather than later.† The biggest impediment turned out to be Ysabel, who threw her arms around Dorian and begged him to be careful. He patted her hastily on the shoulder, assuring her he'd be fine. His eyes were impatient, though, and he didn't look back when he strode out with the rest of us. Poor Ysabel. I was almost starting to feel bad for her, despite her hopes that I wouldn't come back. She really was nothing more than a bed warmer to Dorian, and while most of his women knew that, she just couldn't accept it. Jasmine was ready as well, still bound and looking angry. Volusian was with us, and he had standing orders to subdue her if she tried anything-which I felt pretty sure she would. Unfortunately, I also needed Volusian to fight demons, which meant he couldn't watch her all the time. None of us could, and I was going to have to do some tricky maneuvering to keep the gun on her while still attempting banishing. Kiyo frowned disapprovingly when he saw her, more so when she had to be helped on to her horse. â€Å"This is wrong, Eugenie,† he said softly, once we were all riding. He was going in human form today. â€Å"Which part? Bringing her or keeping her prisoner?† â€Å"I don't like any of it.† â€Å"What happened to you saying you understood the choices I have to make?† I hissed. â€Å"Was that just to score sex?† Dorian had ridden up on my other side. I had no doubt he'd heard the sex comment, but he didn't acknowledge it. â€Å"How would you suggest she handle it then? Let the girl go?† â€Å"No,† Kiyo said, giving Dorian a dark glance. â€Å"But there are more humane ways of dealing with her.† â€Å"I gave Jasmine her own room and got her better cuffs! What else can I do?† I asked. â€Å"I don't know,† admitted Kiyo. â€Å"Then don't criticize if you can't offer a solution,† said Dorian. â€Å"It's easy to want peace and love in hypothetical situations-then reality sets in, and sometimes we have to do what's ugly.† â€Å"I don't recall asking for your input here,† snapped Kiyo. â€Å"As it is, Eugenie, you've got a hard choice ahead.† Dorian was speaking like Kiyo wasn't even there. â€Å"What are you going to do when you've finally taken care of this rabble? What will you do with the prisoners?† I shrugged. â€Å"Send them off to work details.† â€Å"Even their leader, Cowan? The one who summons these demons? Surely you don't want him out and about, even if it is digging ditches.† â€Å"Don't listen to him,† said Kiyo. â€Å"He's baiting you. There are prisons, even in the Otherworld. You can send him there if he survives.† â€Å"A charming act of mercy, no doubt,† mused Dorian. â€Å"One that will terrify future enemies.† â€Å"I'm not going to kill everyone who gets in my way,† I exclaimed. â€Å"I'm not my father, no matter how much you want me to be.† â€Å"I wouldn't quite say that's what I want,† chuckled Dorian. â€Å"But as a leader, you need to make examples sometimes.† â€Å"Mercy's not a horrible thing,† I argued. â€Å"Storm King never showed any,† said Kiyo. â€Å"Indeed,† agreed Dorian. â€Å"And I just want to make sure his daughter doesn't show too much. You aren't the only one who protects her, master kitsune. We all just do it in different ways.† â€Å"Enough,† I ordered. Rurik was drawing the group to a halt up front, meaning it was time to go on foot. I was grateful, seeing as I was getting sick of listening to Kiyo and Dorian's pissing contest. Just like before, we went on foot, the whole experience giving me a strange sense of deja vu, even though the bandits had changed location. I also had odd recollections of the time I'd defeated Aeson. Dorian and Kiyo had been with me then, about as thrilled to be with each other as they were now. Shaya had been there too, but Rurik had nearly had a fit when she offered today, and I couldn't help but recall Girard's words. I certainly hadn't had an army at my back when we'd gone after Aeson. Rurik sent men with a knack for moving stealthily to scope out the camp and dispatch any enemy scouts. The waiting made me restless, and a tense silence settled over everyone. I glanced at Jasmine, still bound. I wouldn't uncuff her until the last possible moment and still didn't trust her. â€Å"You know what you have to do?† I asked her. She'd been staring off thoughtfully at the guards ahead, taking in the sloped land and scattered pines. Probably planning her escape, I thought ruefully. Like before, these brigands had chosen the best cover they could find in this barren land. She turned to me, immediately putting on her standard scowl. â€Å"Yes.† â€Å"And you know what'll happen if you try anything?† â€Å"Yes.† Pure malice looked at me from her eyes. â€Å"Good,† I said, shifting my hold on the gun. Her eyes flicked briefly to it, and if it scared her, she made a good show of still looking defiant. â€Å"I hope you hold true to your word,† murmured Dorian, walking up to me. â€Å"Stop poisoning her,† growled Kiyo. â€Å"And both of you let me make my own decisions,† I said. The scouts returned shortly thereafter, giving us the all-clear. We headed toward the encampment, circling it and descending in full force. Thankfully, no one announced our presence, and we had a brief element of surprise before the bandits mobilized. I unfastened Jasmine's cuffs, hoping I wasn't making a mistake. My right hand firmly held the gun against her back-holding it to her head had seemed a little too cruel-while the left held my wand poised and ready. Kiyo and the other fighters were going in for the hand-to-hand combat while the other magic users and I stayed back and waited-not that I intended to use magic today. I was strictly in shamanic banishing mode. And there they were. A deep swell of magic permeated the air, and fiery forms materialized on the far side of the camp. I saw Rurik's gaze travel to the spot they'd come from, his attention not on the demons but on what was potentially the demons' summoner. Circling around, he headed toward that area. The demons were my job. I nudged Jasmine with the gun. â€Å"Do your thing. Volusian-attack.† I held my breath, wondering what Jasmine would do. A moment later, I felt magic well up in her, a magic similar to my own but with a slightly different feel. Some part of my brain tried to grasp it, hoping I could learn it for later. The rest of me watched as there was a ripple in the air-an opening to the Underworld. Two forms stepped out from the slash in our world. Much like the water elemental from the other night, these two demons were composed of water, sloshing with each step yet maintaining a solid form. They were bigger than the elemental, though, adorned with horns and glowing yellow eyes. â€Å"Only two?† I exclaimed. â€Å"There are five of the others!† Jasmine didn't respond but held up her hand like a conductor drawing a powerful note from her musicians. For a heartbeat, I wondered if the water demons would come charging toward us. They didn't. Their attention turned to the fire demons, their ancient enemy from the Underworld. Nearby, Dorian was wielding magic of his own, ripping up the earth from underneath the fire demons so that they stumbled and sank into great holes, making them easy prey. â€Å"Demons aren't that easy to summon,† he said in her defense, eyes on his handiwork. â€Å"In fact, this will be it for the fire demons. There's no way that man can summon any more. I'd be surprised if he's still conscious.† Well, that was something. Jasmine's servants had two of the fire demons in a deadlock, which meant none of them were going after my people. Volusian was making good work on one of the demons as well, though the other two were rampaging forward. It was time for me to step up. I drew up the human power I'd used my entire life, the power that was based on will and not emotion like gentry magic. My wand focused it, and I sent it out toward one of the loose fire demons, encircling him and summoning up the strength of Persephone to open up a way to the Underworld and suck him back. He sensed the banishment happening, and I felt his power surge as he tried to fight it. I steeled up my own strength, and what seemed like a land mine suddenly went off near him, showering him in dirt and rock as he stumbled. Thank you, Dorian. The Underworld opened up, and the demon dissolved back to his domain, unable to fight my strength. And like the last time I'd fought these guys, the power required for that banishing took a lot out of me. Surveying the rest of the battle, I saw with pleasant surprise that one of Jasmine's water demons had defeated a fire demon. That water demon had then joined his partner, and it appeared as though they would make quick work of their target. Kiyo and the other soldiers were doing a good job of killing or subduing the rest of the bandits. I turned back to the fire demons, assessing my next strategy. One was unengaged and starting to move toward my soldiers. This banishment was going to be harsh. I drew up all my strength and repeated the process, calling out to Persephone and reciting the words to send the demon back to the Underworld. It distracted him from my soldiers, and he started lumbering toward me. Fuck. â€Å"He. Is. Coming,† said Jasmine stiffly. I couldn't see her face with my gun to her back but got the impression she was as strained as I was. â€Å"Yeah, I kind of noticed.† He was pushing back at me with his own strength of will. I clenched my teeth. No, no. I am stronger. I am Storm King's daughter. I needed another distraction to slip him up, but everyone else was busy. Dorian's attention was on the demon that Volusian battled. That demon was moderately stronger than my minion, but seeing that Volusian couldn't really die†¦well, it made it hard to destroy him. So, neither was gaining ground until Dorian used some of his magic to attack the demon with a nearby chunk of rock, letting Volusian move in for the kill. My demon was still approaching, and I needed a distraction of my own. Iron didn't dampen my powers anywhere near as much as it did Jasmine's, but it could sometimes affect me a little. I could still work my gentry powers while in contact with it, but it was easier without. In an act I was certain I'd regret, I dropped the gun and immediately called upon my storm magic. I would have given anything to blast this demon with lightning, but that was still beyond my control. Instead, I reached up toward the sky, calling on water and air. To my astonishment, I was able to bind them together. Thick, leaden clouds formed, whirling into a weak funnel cloud that descended on the demon. It was the most powerful force of weather I'd ever-consciously-summoned, and it knocked the demon over. I couldn't maintain my hold on it, and the ministorm dissipated instantly. It was enough, though, and I sent out the banishing before he could respond. It felt like my insides were being ripped out, but I manag ed it, kicking him out of this world. Gasping and woozy, I looked around, realizing there were no more demons left-well, no fire demons at least. The water demons, victorious, were still there-and they were charging toward us. Shit. I realized then what I'd potentially unleashed. I cuffed Jasmine on the shoulder, nearly knocking her over, and reached for my gun. â€Å"I warned you not to try anything,† I cried, pointing the gun at her. â€Å"Send them away!† â€Å"It's not me,† she exclaimed back. â€Å"I can't control them!† Stepping forward, I got a good look at her face. She was covered in sweat, skin pale. Dorian had said demon summoning was hard, and the full weight of what I'd done hit me. She'd summoned them but no longer had the power to control them. I had no more strength left for banishing, but I could feel Jasmine still trying to work her magic, weak as it now was. It was impossible to sense every part of what someone else was doing with their magic, but I got a strong feel for hers. These creatures were bound to water. They were part of my domain. Doing my best to mimic her, I joined my strength to hers, sending commands through my magic, willing them to leave this world. They were nearly on us, and I almost laughed at the irony as my own death approached. Then, suddenly, I felt my magic sync up perfectly with Jasmine's. Control of the demons slipped into place, and they froze. Together, she and I ordered them back, and there was a tear in the fabric of space, an opening to the Underworld. It was almost like a banishing, but not quite. The demons were willingly-well, with our urging-returning, and our magic helped them with the passage. A moment later, they dissolved from our world. After that, I felt like I'd run a marathon. Every part of me ached and was wearied. Yet, as bad as I was, Jasmine was worse. â€Å"I guess blood really is thicker than water,† she whispered in a very bad attempt at a joke. She swayed on her feet, eyes rolling back in her head, and then she collapsed. I barely managed to catch her in my own weakened state, but then stronger arms took hold. Kiyo. He barely had a scratch, and relief poured through me. â€Å"Thanks.† He lifted her easily into his arms. â€Å"Are you okay?† â€Å"Fine,† I said, looking down at my sister-who hadn't betrayed me after all. â€Å"She's bad, though. Get her to a healer.† Kiyo hesitated, not wanting to leave me. Then, he gave a quick nod and loped off in that way that was half-human and half-wild animal. Looking around, I saw that the others were rounding up the remaining rabble. My losses looked light. Rurik was leading a man who seemed to be in the same shape as Jasmine. The demon summoner. Dorian was with Rurik and gave me a quick glance. I knew what was in the look. Kill the summoner or not? I gave a sharp shake of my head. Dorian grimaced and then turned back to help Rurik with his prisoner. No one seemed to notice or need me, and I sank gratefully to the ground, waiting for my strength to return. I wondered if I'd be able to call up the magic again that I had used with Jasmine. Trying to piece it together seemed like too much work now, and I contented myself with watching my people work. Then, out of my peripheral vision, I saw movement. I stood up and looked far to my side, toward a stony bluff covered in cacti. A face peered out at me and then ducked back. I knew the face. It was the scarred gentry who'd come to my house the other night. With no further thought, I started to hurry after him. Then, to my astonishment, I paused and did what Rurik would have wanted. A couple of my soldiers were lingering nearby. â€Å"Hey, come here,† I called, gesturing. They immediately followed as I set off at a brisk pace, moving as fast as I could to reach the bluff. When I turned around the side of it, I saw no sign of the gentry warrior I sought. The ground rose sharply here, beginning to turn into foothills reminiscent of the ones near my house in Tucson. The vegetation was thicker, though still a far cry from a true forest. It was mostly cacti, shrubs, and scraggly trees. Going up the small hill was a narrow path, and on impulse, I headed up it in search of my prey. The footsteps of my soldiers sounded behind me, their boots crunching in the gravel. Who was that guy? And why was he here now? Was he one of the bandits? I hadn't seen him in the fight. Was he some sort of spy, perhaps, which was why he'd come to my house and- Snick. Snick. Two arrows came out of nowhere as we reached the crest of a hill. Each one hit one of my soldiers in the chest, dropping them to the ground. I came to a screeching halt, waiting for my arrow, peering around the trees for the mystery gentry to reveal himself. But he didn't. Art did. He smiled, stepping forward. â€Å"Eugenie, nice to see you again. You've been very busy around here, I hear.† He waved vaguely toward where I'd come from, though my people were nowhere in sight. Eugenie, I thought, you are a fucking moron. Beyond Art, I saw the gentry I'd chased emerge from the cover, along with two others-all wearing leather armor like Jasmine had described. They carried bows and wore red shirts under the armor. â€Å"Roland called me last night and nearly bit my head off about getting you involved in gentry politics.† Art shook his head, amused. â€Å"I wonder what he'd say if he only knew just how involved you were-your majesty.† I was exhausted as hell and devoid of magic. But-I was still human and not without human implements. The gun was still in my hand, and I jerked it up toward him. I needed to distract him until some of my own people came. Fuck. I shouldn't have come rushing up this hill, even if I had had the sense to bring some backup. The question now was, would the rest of my people notice I was gone? Usually, I could hardly step outside the castle's door without a dozen people in tow. Art tsked me. â€Å"Would you really do it? Would you really kill one of your own kind? Or are we even your own kind?† Magic suddenly filled the air-familiar magic. Shamanic magic. It encircled me like fog, thick and heavy. Forgetting Art, I turned abruptly around, toward the sound of words being chanted-words I knew by heart. Abigail was standing there, wand in hand. And so help me, she was banishing me. I felt her will shove up against mine, just as I'd grappled with the demons. The world around me began to tear open as a vortex started to pull my essence apart. I fought it, fought it with every ounce of strength I had-but there was just none left to give. When it came to traveling the worlds, crossroads and gateways were the way to go. They made for a smooth transition. Or, one could travel like I often did, journeying to some item imbued with your essence, an item that couldn't help but draw your soul to it. And rarely, if you had the strength, you could tear open a gateway by force and shove your way into another world. That wasn't recommended. It hurt like hell. And essentially, that's what a banishing was-only it wasn't your choice. It was someone ripping you out of the world and shoving you into another. I felt the fabric of this world open up, felt the unstoppable pull of another. I couldn't fight it. I tried. I kicked, I screamed, but I was too weak. I felt like I was shattering into a million pieces, sucked into a whirlwind and then, I was gone.