New Paradigm for HR Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

New Paradigm for HR - Essay Example Most of the organizations are using human resources as an important source of competitive advantage, however Losey, Meisinger, & Ulrich (2005) have presented different challenges and dilemmas in this regard. COMPELLING ISSUES HIGHLIGHTED BY AUTHOR: Some of the main issues highlighted by the author are as follow: 1. Increased Diversity among the workforce: owing to increasing globalization and free trade there have been different cross cultural issues in the multinational organizations. The employees belong to different ethnic and cultural backgrounds and as a result makes it difficult for the management to control and manage the human resource. 2. New Logic for Human Resource: Losey, Meisinger, & Ulrich (2005) have presented new logic for human resource in order to avoid cross cultural and diversity issues. This includes the three Rs paradigm i.e. recognize, respect, and reconciliation. 3. The war for Talent: should there be fresh hiring or the old employees should be retained 4. Iss ues in Selection and Recruitment: old abilities versus new talent and potential EVALUATION OF THE AUTHORS POSITION: The authors are of the idea that the organizations should implement the principle of ‘think globally and act locally’. The organizations should strive to capture the international markets but at the same time should adapt to the local culture and preferences. The human resource personnel faces different issues and challenges while deciding for important human resource decisions. There is difference in the view points of people from different cultures and backgrounds. According to the authors, the HR managers and decision makers should focus on the three Rs framework i.e. recognize, respect, and reconciliation. The decision makers at first place should recognize the explicit and implicit differences in the approaches, ideas, and values. Secondly, they should respect the differences and viewpoints of other people. And finally, there should be reconciliation in all different views and opinions which in turn will eliminate all tensions and issues related to HR policies. SUPPORTING DATA: These difference in opinions because of diversity is not only restricted to the HR functions and decisions of the organization but is also faced by other functions like marketing. Trompennars and Wooliams (2004), in their article ‘A new paradigm for Marketing Across Cultures’ have presented the same three Rs framework i.e. recognize, respect, and reconciliation in HR. According to them in order to come up with effective and efficient marketing strategies and decisions for different cultures and nations, the marketing professionals should learn to recognize, respect, and reconcile different opinions and cultural viewpoints. Apart from this different researchers have presented the idea of managing the diversity among the organization by bringing a harmony among different views and opinions. OPPOSING VIEW POINT: There have been different researc hes in order to come up with effective and efficient strategies in order to combat with diversity management. There have been different viewpoints in this regard. According to the Roberge and Dick (2010), diversity among the workforce results in increasing the overall productivity and performance of the organization. The view presented by Roberge and Dick (2010), is different from that of Losey, Mesinger, and Ulrich (2005). The formers are of the view that the different opinio

Kaplan Higher Education Essay Example for Free

Kaplan Higher Education Essay

Urbanization Trends In American Cities

Urbanization Trends In American Cities Abstract Americas largest population dwells in town. Intermediate cities are regarded as places that promise sustainability in urban growth. This paper looks at recent urbanization trends in American cities. Privatization of urban planning is challenged by sustainable urbanization. Governmental harmonization lacks in the housing market along with urban growth thus has put stress on natural resources and livability of cities. It is suggested that the housing market ought to be made more striking in order to manage urban growth and prevent a saturate of novel luxurious middle-class homes in the margin. The objective of this question is to examine the reasons as to why people migrate to cities in the United States. This knowledge is used to deal with issues of importance to the Nation, such as quality-of-life, flora and fauna, environmental integrity, water quality and mass concerns, resource accessibility, exposure to natural hazards, atmosphere and terrain value, and ease of access to scientific information. Good record keeping and data generation, and good physical planning are made an integral part of the solution to growth of other urban towns. Introduction United States was predominately rural. In the 19th and 20th centuries, industrial revolution brought about urbanization thus transformed urban life and gave individuals higher expectation to improving their standards of living. . Development of streetcars, trolleys, and railroads enabled city boundaries to expand. Technological innovations in transportation and housing construction, increased number of jobs, and encouraged migration to cities. Urbanization is a process that refers to the change in a country when its rural population migrates to urban areas; the rate at which, the proportion of a region living in towns and cities is growing. Moving in U.S is brought about by issues like employment, shelter, water, social welfare, sewage, political machines, hygiene, role of government, etc. In the United States, even the rural population is urbanized since farmers are more efficient in buying manufactured goods and producing a surplus of materials for selling and a variety of essentially urban services. Urbanization is explained in terms of either push factors- conditions in the place of origin which migrants see as detrimental to their well-being or economic security (high unemployment, political persecution), and pull factors- state of affairs in new places that magnetize individuals to move there (job opportunities, good climate). Urbanization cannot be stopped for it exists and will continue to grow. Literature review The 2005 Revision of World Urbanization Prospects says that the world is expected to continue to urbanize as 60 per cent of the universal population is projected to live in cities by 2030. Urban dwellers increase in number gives the best sign of the scale of these exceptional trends: city populace augmented from 220 million in 1900 to 732 million in 1950, and is projected to reach 3.2 billion in 2005. Brugmann says that more than half of the world now lives in cities. A sustainable future for cities and nations can be achieved by using natural advantages of urban areas with an eye toward how corporate and individuals use and misuse advantages. Globalization and urbanization are connected in that, slums are vibrant and well running economic hubs (David, 2009). Urbanization is a process in which increasing populations of an entire population live in cities and suburbs of cities. In the United States, about 6% of the population lived in cities in 1800, but about 55% of the population lived in cities by 1930. US was urbanizing throughout the 20th century. Research methodology In this section of the research we look at the suggested methods of carrying out the research. This describes and justifies the analysis, and the interpretation of the results. This section also elaborates the sampling, design methods used, nature of the data collected, analysis made on the data and the interpretations and conclusion made. In this search on urbanization-what brings people to cities: various research methods were employed in carrying out the exercise to arrive at a more productive and informative search. One of the methods used in the study is the use of secondary data. However, this information was collected from the recent researches carried out by different interested parties. The other very vital data collection method was from the census information collected and compiled by the State agency responsible with the national statistics and enumeration commission (Beall Sean, 2009). At this stage of data collection it is worth noting that for full and more accurate information to be collected, a proper research design has to be put in place to enable researchers access more information and data as they may need. Data that was collected from the secondary sources was both qualitative (in word or text) and quantitative (numbers and statistics). This data was collected from different sources and at different time. This information was collected through the commonly used primary methods like the questionnaires that were distributed to the people to answer some questions on some particular issues of their concern and the use of interviews that were carried out among the authorities. Observations were also made on the current situation that the women were facing. When checked for accuracy and reliability of the findings, it was found out that the information would stand the test of time as it was reliable and valid. If another research was to be conducted on the same issue, the same results would be obtained. Sampling error was way below the expected minimum threshold and that if triangulation was also carried out; it could be found out that the data collected was accurate and timely (Beall Sean, 2009). After data has been collected it is analyzed, represented and discussed before arriving at the conclusion on the subject matter. Data can however be analyzed in different ways and represented in different forms like diagrammatic forms like the charts, tables and graphs. This analysis can be done in two different form either qualitative data analysis or the quantitative data analysis. These data need to be analyzed in order to obtain information that is usable and useful to the end users. This information irrespective of whether the data was qualitative or quantitative will describe and summarize the data. This information would later be used to forecast outcomes as well as comparing the variables. Diagrammatic representation is considered the best among the other form of representation s as pie charts would be used to represent the number of people who have migrated to cities. Graphs can also be used to compare the current information and the past that was retrieved from the secondary sources. After the results have been found and analyzed, it should be written in a particular format and stored for future reference. This can be done by having all the data arranged in the themes and categories for future reference. When you have the information present it clearly and logically and should have relevance in your research question. Discussion Agriculture and Policies People in the United States live in cities and large metro areas. Cities rather than states increasingly drive national economies. Agricultural products (flowers, coffee), and primary-sector goods (minerals, timber) become natural resource assets that can be traded to strengthen the general economy. Free market economics pursues economic effectiveness to deliver goods at the lowest price possible whereas government intervention diminishes this efficiency by eliminating farm programs such as farm subsidies, cheap credit policies, etc. which is intended to help the farmer, and maintain stable prices. A scenario like this leaves farmers shouldering the burden of farming leaving them with no other alternative other than to sell the land to foreign investors or domestic-owned enterprises, and move to the city, where he hopes for a better life. Congressional maps became more metro and less agrarian, meaning that the interests of metropolitan areas increasingly dominated national policy debates. A budget deficit spurs on economic activity in a time where activity is tremendously slow (Kenneth, 1997). In cities, things like traffic, cost of construction, and green policies begin to matter more to a states overall competitiveness than ever before. The strategy is maintaining urban food prices below market levels to reduce the cost of urban labor and urban life. These policies have made city life more attractive and hence have pulled people from other urban areas. Inadequate compensation of rural producers for the costs incurred to produce food products has aggravated rural poverty. Good infrastructure will mean that there will be no congestion in traffic, easy access to industries, reduced number of accidents, and thus individuals take a short time to get to their work places. Nowadays, trains are the dominant mode of transportation throughout the country. Industrialization on the other hand, gained prominence thus creating a national economy. A fast growing industrial nation was fueled by the natural resources from all parts of the country. Legal Firms Most of the Americans move to Washington, DC the capital of the nation, government dominates the city thus there is a huge legal market; large business; and multitude of institutions, museums, cultural activities, and hot spots in the city. Living in DC means that one is an hour away from the mountains, three hours from the ocean, and the beautiful Potomac River and Rock Creek Park for lovers of nature. A cross-section of society: lawyers, government employees, the homeless, business people, college students, and famous Hollywood actors are found occasionally on the streets. DC has a large population due to its vast availability of resources that enable people to improve their living standards. Job opportunities are also high as compared to other states (David, 2009). Delaware is the second smallest state, but has elegant beaches such as Bethany, Rehoboth, and Dewey are tourist attraction sites. Rehoboth beach has been transformed to a refined, cosmopolitan town which has enabled people to migrate to it as it has valleys like Brandywine which have blooming gardens, tranquil creeks, and mansions like Nemours, Kennett Square, home of the magnificent Longwood Gardens, and decorative arts and landscape. The legal community and the financial services industry are prevalent. Socio-economic changes and Industries Socio-economic changes affecting urban areas involving geographical mobility is enjoyed by the elderly middle-class society segment since they can transfer payments, such as Social Security, leasing or venture money, and corporation pensions away from their communities and splurge it elsewhere. People with helpful skills (service sector of the economy) also enjoy the liberty to move to more enviable places to reside. Areas with natural facilities, such as picturesque vistas, mild winters, and water-related leisure activities, attract countless people (Howard, Judith Peter, 2009). Spatial employment distribution has changed over recent decades. Environs primarily became retail centers. Over time, manufacturing- in terms of production and management-has grown rapidly in uptown and exurban areas. Industries in these areas are characteristically described as being light- are located near hauling or information-based admission points, which are near study facilities and /or main universities or high-tech- led by Microsoft are located in areas with abundant natural amenities. Industry management has left the metropolis center in favor of shared campuses- positioned near freeway interchanges or main airports. Housing and Business opportunities The aspiration for and cost of new housing are factors motivating the spread out and expansion around metropolitan regions. On the periphery of municipal regions, cost of land for new housing construction was less expensive. People who desired new housing to lived farther out from the urban core due to increased suburbanization of employment hence maintaining related commuting patterns of the environs to metropolitan center (Kenneth, 1997). Strict land use regulations in many suburban countries affected housing costs by limiting areas available for development. Las Vegas is well known for its artesian wells. It is a regional center for push and pulling out activities. The Federal Government spurred development as a result of the erection of Hoover block and Nellis Air Base. Gambling is legal, electricity is cheap, and its propinquity to southern Californias growing population fostered a ritzy resort economy. There is an increment in gaming, air, and auto access. Corporate ownership of casinos propelled the capital into a world-class amusement center. Women and Economy Todays women migrate from south to north for work as nannies, domestics, or sex workers. They participate in two sets of dynamic configuration; the global city and survival circuits. There activities implicated in management and coordination of the global economy has expanded, producing a sharp growth in the demand for highly paid professionals. Global cities have turned out to be places where large numbers of underpaid women and immigrants are integrated into strategic economic sectors. Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota has a diversified economy and perceived opportunities which continues to attract new residents. Glacial lakes attract development because of their desired natural amenity. A progressive metropolitan farmland protection program vulnerable to voluntary, short-term enrollments was established. Orlando is the trade center to a citrus-dominated agricultural region, construction f the missile/space facility at nearby Cape Canaveral, and the arrival of associated aerospace companies (Patricia Russ, 2008). Houston, Texas a city of big plans and no rules, humidity demands for an ice-cold martini and the biggest liquor store on the planet is found there. Houston is known for its aerospace, its metro area leads the state in employment growth as it has technology and medical companies, its living costs stand well under the general average, prices of housing are half those of other metro areas, and energy capital of the U.S. Its upgrading includes a stretched out convention center, a new arena, a spiffed-up Main boulevard, and a light-rail scheme. This has attracted Fortune 500 companies, couples, and empty nesters. Energy and Habits Elevated energy prices (gasoline) as well as heating oil and ordinary gas-could be the power that brings the ideas of urban planners to conclusion: a greener, more sustainable culture. High energy prices mean more U.S. cities join those ranks, growing thicker with inhabitants, shops, and workers. Gas prices will really take the gleam off the isolated environs. Experts are predicting that city homes could increase charge for being less pricey to heat and cool, their closeness to mass transportation, shops, and employers. The Washington metro area has a lower than average rate of plumpness, low smoking rate, and an average number of persons consuming fruits and vegetables (Patricia Russ, 2008). Recreational community centers and other places are well-endowed. Affluent Boston on the other hand, has a lower smoking rate and state-mandated fitness cover. Economic power used to denote the control of immense human and material possessions, but today it implies the capability to direct the route of skill and a few leaders of important open source projects. Cities provide an audience and a funnel for peers. In something like math or physics, audience does not matters except peers, and judging capacity is amply basic that hiring and admissions committees can do it reliably. In arts or writing or technology fields the larger surroundings matters. It helps to be in a great city: you need the encouragement of sentiments that people around you mind the kind of exertion you do, you have to find peers for yourself, and you need the much larger intake device of a great city (Brugmann, 2005). Conclusion This whole process has been challenging since in some cities people were not co-operating with me for fear of giving out personal information that can land them into trouble. The process involved traveling to various cities, interacting with people of different cultures and backgrounds. United States is one big nation hosting many people who have come from as far as Africa in search of livelihood. Majority of United States residents dont like the idea of staying in one state for a long period of time thus move to other cities. Others move because they want fame while others are in search of their loved ones. My feelings concerning the subject is well rooted on the persons reason for moving. As much as I enjoyed this research am well satisfied with the work done for not only did I get to learn a few new things concerning our nation, but also I answered the question. Research will be conducted on a regular basis since time brings about a lot of changes that affect the movement of people and the population at large. The literature in this case is not wrong as it has answered all the questions that arose during my research. My only question that I did not get an answer to was why people are moving to other cities instead of working to achieve what they lack in their own town for it is not a guarantee that they will get all that they need in that new town. Also, they should be aware of the fact that with time that new place will also encounter its own problems. It means that they will have to move again to another town. Urbanization Trends In American Cities Urbanization Trends In American Cities Abstract Americas largest population dwells in town. Intermediate cities are regarded as places that promise sustainability in urban growth. This paper looks at recent urbanization trends in American cities. Privatization of urban planning is challenged by sustainable urbanization. Governmental harmonization lacks in the housing market along with urban growth thus has put stress on natural resources and livability of cities. It is suggested that the housing market ought to be made more striking in order to manage urban growth and prevent a saturate of novel luxurious middle-class homes in the margin. The objective of this question is to examine the reasons as to why people migrate to cities in the United States. This knowledge is used to deal with issues of importance to the Nation, such as quality-of-life, flora and fauna, environmental integrity, water quality and mass concerns, resource accessibility, exposure to natural hazards, atmosphere and terrain value, and ease of access to scientific information. Good record keeping and data generation, and good physical planning are made an integral part of the solution to growth of other urban towns. Introduction United States was predominately rural. In the 19th and 20th centuries, industrial revolution brought about urbanization thus transformed urban life and gave individuals higher expectation to improving their standards of living. . Development of streetcars, trolleys, and railroads enabled city boundaries to expand. Technological innovations in transportation and housing construction, increased number of jobs, and encouraged migration to cities. Urbanization is a process that refers to the change in a country when its rural population migrates to urban areas; the rate at which, the proportion of a region living in towns and cities is growing. Moving in U.S is brought about by issues like employment, shelter, water, social welfare, sewage, political machines, hygiene, role of government, etc. In the United States, even the rural population is urbanized since farmers are more efficient in buying manufactured goods and producing a surplus of materials for selling and a variety of essentially urban services. Urbanization is explained in terms of either push factors- conditions in the place of origin which migrants see as detrimental to their well-being or economic security (high unemployment, political persecution), and pull factors- state of affairs in new places that magnetize individuals to move there (job opportunities, good climate). Urbanization cannot be stopped for it exists and will continue to grow. Literature review The 2005 Revision of World Urbanization Prospects says that the world is expected to continue to urbanize as 60 per cent of the universal population is projected to live in cities by 2030. Urban dwellers increase in number gives the best sign of the scale of these exceptional trends: city populace augmented from 220 million in 1900 to 732 million in 1950, and is projected to reach 3.2 billion in 2005. Brugmann says that more than half of the world now lives in cities. A sustainable future for cities and nations can be achieved by using natural advantages of urban areas with an eye toward how corporate and individuals use and misuse advantages. Globalization and urbanization are connected in that, slums are vibrant and well running economic hubs (David, 2009). Urbanization is a process in which increasing populations of an entire population live in cities and suburbs of cities. In the United States, about 6% of the population lived in cities in 1800, but about 55% of the population lived in cities by 1930. US was urbanizing throughout the 20th century. Research methodology In this section of the research we look at the suggested methods of carrying out the research. This describes and justifies the analysis, and the interpretation of the results. This section also elaborates the sampling, design methods used, nature of the data collected, analysis made on the data and the interpretations and conclusion made. In this search on urbanization-what brings people to cities: various research methods were employed in carrying out the exercise to arrive at a more productive and informative search. One of the methods used in the study is the use of secondary data. However, this information was collected from the recent researches carried out by different interested parties. The other very vital data collection method was from the census information collected and compiled by the State agency responsible with the national statistics and enumeration commission (Beall Sean, 2009). At this stage of data collection it is worth noting that for full and more accurate information to be collected, a proper research design has to be put in place to enable researchers access more information and data as they may need. Data that was collected from the secondary sources was both qualitative (in word or text) and quantitative (numbers and statistics). This data was collected from different sources and at different time. This information was collected through the commonly used primary methods like the questionnaires that were distributed to the people to answer some questions on some particular issues of their concern and the use of interviews that were carried out among the authorities. Observations were also made on the current situation that the women were facing. When checked for accuracy and reliability of the findings, it was found out that the information would stand the test of time as it was reliable and valid. If another research was to be conducted on the same issue, the same results would be obtained. Sampling error was way below the expected minimum threshold and that if triangulation was also carried out; it could be found out that the data collected was accurate and timely (Beall Sean, 2009). After data has been collected it is analyzed, represented and discussed before arriving at the conclusion on the subject matter. Data can however be analyzed in different ways and represented in different forms like diagrammatic forms like the charts, tables and graphs. This analysis can be done in two different form either qualitative data analysis or the quantitative data analysis. These data need to be analyzed in order to obtain information that is usable and useful to the end users. This information irrespective of whether the data was qualitative or quantitative will describe and summarize the data. This information would later be used to forecast outcomes as well as comparing the variables. Diagrammatic representation is considered the best among the other form of representation s as pie charts would be used to represent the number of people who have migrated to cities. Graphs can also be used to compare the current information and the past that was retrieved from the secondary sources. After the results have been found and analyzed, it should be written in a particular format and stored for future reference. This can be done by having all the data arranged in the themes and categories for future reference. When you have the information present it clearly and logically and should have relevance in your research question. Discussion Agriculture and Policies People in the United States live in cities and large metro areas. Cities rather than states increasingly drive national economies. Agricultural products (flowers, coffee), and primary-sector goods (minerals, timber) become natural resource assets that can be traded to strengthen the general economy. Free market economics pursues economic effectiveness to deliver goods at the lowest price possible whereas government intervention diminishes this efficiency by eliminating farm programs such as farm subsidies, cheap credit policies, etc. which is intended to help the farmer, and maintain stable prices. A scenario like this leaves farmers shouldering the burden of farming leaving them with no other alternative other than to sell the land to foreign investors or domestic-owned enterprises, and move to the city, where he hopes for a better life. Congressional maps became more metro and less agrarian, meaning that the interests of metropolitan areas increasingly dominated national policy debates. A budget deficit spurs on economic activity in a time where activity is tremendously slow (Kenneth, 1997). In cities, things like traffic, cost of construction, and green policies begin to matter more to a states overall competitiveness than ever before. The strategy is maintaining urban food prices below market levels to reduce the cost of urban labor and urban life. These policies have made city life more attractive and hence have pulled people from other urban areas. Inadequate compensation of rural producers for the costs incurred to produce food products has aggravated rural poverty. Good infrastructure will mean that there will be no congestion in traffic, easy access to industries, reduced number of accidents, and thus individuals take a short time to get to their work places. Nowadays, trains are the dominant mode of transportation throughout the country. Industrialization on the other hand, gained prominence thus creating a national economy. A fast growing industrial nation was fueled by the natural resources from all parts of the country. Legal Firms Most of the Americans move to Washington, DC the capital of the nation, government dominates the city thus there is a huge legal market; large business; and multitude of institutions, museums, cultural activities, and hot spots in the city. Living in DC means that one is an hour away from the mountains, three hours from the ocean, and the beautiful Potomac River and Rock Creek Park for lovers of nature. A cross-section of society: lawyers, government employees, the homeless, business people, college students, and famous Hollywood actors are found occasionally on the streets. DC has a large population due to its vast availability of resources that enable people to improve their living standards. Job opportunities are also high as compared to other states (David, 2009). Delaware is the second smallest state, but has elegant beaches such as Bethany, Rehoboth, and Dewey are tourist attraction sites. Rehoboth beach has been transformed to a refined, cosmopolitan town which has enabled people to migrate to it as it has valleys like Brandywine which have blooming gardens, tranquil creeks, and mansions like Nemours, Kennett Square, home of the magnificent Longwood Gardens, and decorative arts and landscape. The legal community and the financial services industry are prevalent. Socio-economic changes and Industries Socio-economic changes affecting urban areas involving geographical mobility is enjoyed by the elderly middle-class society segment since they can transfer payments, such as Social Security, leasing or venture money, and corporation pensions away from their communities and splurge it elsewhere. People with helpful skills (service sector of the economy) also enjoy the liberty to move to more enviable places to reside. Areas with natural facilities, such as picturesque vistas, mild winters, and water-related leisure activities, attract countless people (Howard, Judith Peter, 2009). Spatial employment distribution has changed over recent decades. Environs primarily became retail centers. Over time, manufacturing- in terms of production and management-has grown rapidly in uptown and exurban areas. Industries in these areas are characteristically described as being light- are located near hauling or information-based admission points, which are near study facilities and /or main universities or high-tech- led by Microsoft are located in areas with abundant natural amenities. Industry management has left the metropolis center in favor of shared campuses- positioned near freeway interchanges or main airports. Housing and Business opportunities The aspiration for and cost of new housing are factors motivating the spread out and expansion around metropolitan regions. On the periphery of municipal regions, cost of land for new housing construction was less expensive. People who desired new housing to lived farther out from the urban core due to increased suburbanization of employment hence maintaining related commuting patterns of the environs to metropolitan center (Kenneth, 1997). Strict land use regulations in many suburban countries affected housing costs by limiting areas available for development. Las Vegas is well known for its artesian wells. It is a regional center for push and pulling out activities. The Federal Government spurred development as a result of the erection of Hoover block and Nellis Air Base. Gambling is legal, electricity is cheap, and its propinquity to southern Californias growing population fostered a ritzy resort economy. There is an increment in gaming, air, and auto access. Corporate ownership of casinos propelled the capital into a world-class amusement center. Women and Economy Todays women migrate from south to north for work as nannies, domestics, or sex workers. They participate in two sets of dynamic configuration; the global city and survival circuits. There activities implicated in management and coordination of the global economy has expanded, producing a sharp growth in the demand for highly paid professionals. Global cities have turned out to be places where large numbers of underpaid women and immigrants are integrated into strategic economic sectors. Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota has a diversified economy and perceived opportunities which continues to attract new residents. Glacial lakes attract development because of their desired natural amenity. A progressive metropolitan farmland protection program vulnerable to voluntary, short-term enrollments was established. Orlando is the trade center to a citrus-dominated agricultural region, construction f the missile/space facility at nearby Cape Canaveral, and the arrival of associated aerospace companies (Patricia Russ, 2008). Houston, Texas a city of big plans and no rules, humidity demands for an ice-cold martini and the biggest liquor store on the planet is found there. Houston is known for its aerospace, its metro area leads the state in employment growth as it has technology and medical companies, its living costs stand well under the general average, prices of housing are half those of other metro areas, and energy capital of the U.S. Its upgrading includes a stretched out convention center, a new arena, a spiffed-up Main boulevard, and a light-rail scheme. This has attracted Fortune 500 companies, couples, and empty nesters. Energy and Habits Elevated energy prices (gasoline) as well as heating oil and ordinary gas-could be the power that brings the ideas of urban planners to conclusion: a greener, more sustainable culture. High energy prices mean more U.S. cities join those ranks, growing thicker with inhabitants, shops, and workers. Gas prices will really take the gleam off the isolated environs. Experts are predicting that city homes could increase charge for being less pricey to heat and cool, their closeness to mass transportation, shops, and employers. The Washington metro area has a lower than average rate of plumpness, low smoking rate, and an average number of persons consuming fruits and vegetables (Patricia Russ, 2008). Recreational community centers and other places are well-endowed. Affluent Boston on the other hand, has a lower smoking rate and state-mandated fitness cover. Economic power used to denote the control of immense human and material possessions, but today it implies the capability to direct the route of skill and a few leaders of important open source projects. Cities provide an audience and a funnel for peers. In something like math or physics, audience does not matters except peers, and judging capacity is amply basic that hiring and admissions committees can do it reliably. In arts or writing or technology fields the larger surroundings matters. It helps to be in a great city: you need the encouragement of sentiments that people around you mind the kind of exertion you do, you have to find peers for yourself, and you need the much larger intake device of a great city (Brugmann, 2005). Conclusion This whole process has been challenging since in some cities people were not co-operating with me for fear of giving out personal information that can land them into trouble. The process involved traveling to various cities, interacting with people of different cultures and backgrounds. United States is one big nation hosting many people who have come from as far as Africa in search of livelihood. Majority of United States residents dont like the idea of staying in one state for a long period of time thus move to other cities. Others move because they want fame while others are in search of their loved ones. My feelings concerning the subject is well rooted on the persons reason for moving. As much as I enjoyed this research am well satisfied with the work done for not only did I get to learn a few new things concerning our nation, but also I answered the question. Research will be conducted on a regular basis since time brings about a lot of changes that affect the movement of people and the population at large. The literature in this case is not wrong as it has answered all the questions that arose during my research. My only question that I did not get an answer to was why people are moving to other cities instead of working to achieve what they lack in their own town for it is not a guarantee that they will get all that they need in that new town. Also, they should be aware of the fact that with time that new place will also encounter its own problems. It means that they will have to move again to another town.

Albert Camus The Stranger and Samuel Becketts Waiting for Godot :: comparison compare contrast essays

Albert Camus' The Stranger and Samuel Beckett's Waiting for Godot      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Many differences and similarities are found between Albert Camus' novel, The Stranger, and Samuel Beckett's play, Waiting for Godot. The characters in each story is very different from their society and at the same time, thy are very similar to each other.   To understand in what ways they are similar, there must be and understanding of how they are different from the society in which they live in.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   First of all, the major difference from the novel and the play is their desire for God's salvation.   Recall when Meursault was in jail, he did not want the magistrate to pray for God to save his soul unlike Vladimir and Estagon, who waits many years for their god.   They both live their life for one reason:   to wait for Godot.   However, to wait for someone who is not going to come is just as pointless as not doing anything at all, just like Meursault who lives his life at the spur of the moment. Neither of them makes important goals in their lives.   Meursault can care less about his promotion and Vladimir and Estragon could have done something worth while with the last fifty years of their lives.   Because of this, they found ways of passing time.   Vladimir and Estragon tries hanging themselves and call each other names while Meursault goes smoking, drinking with Raymond, listen to Salamando and have casual sex all because they do not have anything else to do.   They all feel their very existence is insignificant.   Whether they live or died would not change anything.   One life is as good as another.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Vladimir and Estragon's expression of their emotions contrast to Meursault's lack of emotions.   After Vladimir and Estragon fight,   they resolve their disputes by embracing each other.   Meursault's honesty prevents him from showing any emotions that he does not have.   These ways of expressing their emotions reveals their views of life.   Meursault knows who he is in life but is just indifferent to it.   He did not care if everybody thought he was strange or his associates is a pimp.   However, Vladimir and Estragon does not know who they are in life.  Ã‚   To wait for someone who is not coming is pointless.

Air Pollution in Kuwait

Air pollution is one of the problems facing the international communities. Air pollution is known to have devastating effects on the environment. Kuwait has a long history of air pollution since the era of the Gulf War.   During the Gulf War, more than 600 oil wells were set on fire leading to loss of 6 million barrels of oil everyday and devastating air pollution. There were large pools and lakes of oil that led to water and land pollution.The burning oil wells of Kuwait, which were equated to Chernobyl disaster, emitted tons of green house gases like sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and oxides of nitrogen leading to devastating effects on plant and animals. Although the oil fires were put out, the imprint on the environment are still evident many more years after the Gulf War. Since the massive air pollution during the Gulf War, Kuwait has made progress in cleaning the environment but air pollution is still rampant.Policy ChallengeSince the Gulf War, air pollution is still a major problem in Kuwait.   The government has embarked on a massive program to clean the air but the policies adopted have not provided total solution to the problem.Kuwait Environment Public Authority has been on the frontline in fighting the air pollution problems which dates back to the Gulf War era. However, most of the environmental policies that were formulated by the government then were aimed at reversing air pollution effect of the Gulf War and most of them have not been able to tackle the current problems (Al Jeran and Khan, 2009).There has been tremendous growth in population in the country and the business environment has also grown in different ways. Large settlement in cities and towns has led to increased air pollution mainly from increase number of vehicles emitting tons of pollutant gases every day. Kuwait oil industry which is the mainstay economic activity in the country has also contributed to air pollution.Analysis of the problemAccording to the re sults of a study that was published in Al-Qabas Newspaper in June 2006, more than 86.9% of Kuwait population considers air pollution as the biggest environmental challenge they have to deal with (Al-Mutairi and Koushki, 2009). This is evidence of increased air pollution which shows that there has been little progress to reverse the effect of the Gulf wars more than a decade later.Air pollution in Kuwait has been contributed by two main sources including transport and oil industry. Studies have reveals that automobiles are the main mode of transport in the country with an average employed person making more than 6.1 trips every day with a mean length of 13.6 km.Studies also show an average individual is likely to be delayed for more than 68 minutes everyday in traffic congestion (Koushki, 2007). A study carried out in 2005 revealed that an average Kuwait resident traveling to and from work generated about: (Al-Mutairi and Koushki, 2009)a)   31,275 tons of Volatile Organic Compounds b)   247,764 tones of carbon monoxidec)   19,594 tons of oxides of nitrogend)   1,703 tons of sulfur dioxidee)   6 million tons of carbon dioxide  Traffic has been rated as the leading cause of air pollution in Kuwait urban areas.However, in the rural and urban areas, power stations and oil refinery plants makes a huge contribution to air pollution as well. Kuwait is one of the oil rich countries and oil contributed a large part to the country GDP. However, oil exploration has come with serious effects on the environment, notably grey clouds of smoke from oil refineries that goes up the sky.

Health Assessment and Health Promotion Plan Essay

Abstract Constipation is a common condition that affects people of all ages. It may be described as a variation in an individual’s normal bowel habit with discomfort and diminished quality of life. Medical assessment is required as the underlying cause may be due to a serious medical condition. Managing patients with constipation presents many challenges to the health care professional, not only overcoming communication barriers associated with bowel habits but also because there is no universally accepted definition. Constipation is usually multifactorial, often with complicated underlying patho-physiology and it can be influenced by physical, psychological, physiological, emotional and environmental factors. Chronic constipation is one of the most common lower gastrointestinal disorders affecting people in America and is a key health concern for healthcare providers. This is mainly accurate for patients in high-risk groups such as the elderly, patients suffering from immobility, neurologically impaired patients and those with multiple health-care needs, as well as and those admitted to the hospital or residing in a healthcare facility. Unfortunately, constipation may be regarded as less important than other conditions commonly seen in general practice. Constipation has cost implications in terms of medications, containment equipment and nursing time. The following paper will investigate a patient suffering from constipation while developing a better understanding and approach of management for such ailment. Health Assessment and Promotion Plan Mrs. Burns a 64 years old female presents with chief complaint of being â€Å"constipated†. She states she has a bowel movement about every 3 to 4 days, feels the need to strain at defecation and her stools are hard and painful to excrete. She also has stated having frequent headaches, fatigue, a feeling of bloatedness and loss of appetite. As mention in the book, â€Å"Physical Examination and Health Assessment† by Jarvis, the aging adult frequently reports constipation signs and symptoms, such as reduced stool frequency (less than 3 bowel movements per week), and other common and troubling associated symptoms like straining, lumpy or hard stool, feeling of incomplete evacuation, feeling of anorectal blockage and use of manual maneuvers. Common causes of constipation include decrease in physical activity, inadequate intake of water, a low-fiber diet, side effects of medications (opioids, tricyclic antidepressants, and antacids), irritable bowel syndrome, bowel obstruct ion, hypothyroidism, and inadequate toilet facilities. Upon obtaining subjective data it was found that Mrs. Burns lives by herself after the death of her husband 6 months ago. She states no longer being able to eat as she used to when her husband was still alive and she cooked every day; now she usually eats by herself. She stated she has lost over 20 lbs. since her husband’s dead. She also reported usually feeling lonely and very sad. Client also stated her usual meals of the day include breakfast starting with a cup of coffee and a slice of toast, lunch is usually eaten between 1 and 2 pm and include can soup or a tuna sandwich if she feels hungry and for dinner tea. Anorexia is a loss of appetite, and the purpose for obtaining information about signs and symptoms of anorexia is vital to prevent the dangerous psychological and behavioral effects on all aspects of an individual’s life. The individual can become seriously underweight, irritable and easily upset which can lead to depression and social withdrawal. Anorexia can also affect sleep and lead to fatigue during the day, as well as decrease attention and concentration (Prynn, 2011). Mrs. Burns does not often consume fruits and vegetables or other additional source fiber. She does not like the taste of water, so is very rare for her to consume it. She states not having trouble chewing, swallowing, or feeling nauseous or vomiting, but she likes to take naps after eating. Mrs. Burns also reported having signs and symptoms of abdominal pain located in the right and left lower quadrants of the stomach. The pain usually starts after the third day of constipation, which she describes as cramping (colic type) and usually relieved after she ambulates or has a bowel movement. Mrs. Burns describes her bowel habits as changed from going on a daily basis to only having a bowel movement every 3 to 4 days with a hard consistency. In her past abdominal history she reports not ever having an abdominal surgery. She brought an abdominal x-ray report, which concludes fecal matter to be present. She reports her list of medications including calcium, iron supplements and antacids, which she takes on a daily basis. The patient reports that being constipated all the time makes it really difficult for her to have a normal life. She reports her coping mechanisms as taking over-the-counter preparations especially laxatives, the use of digital stimulation and taking ibuprofen as necessary to relieve the pain when food or ambulation are not effective. A throughout functional assessment was performed and found that Mrs. Burns is able to ambulate, perform activities of daily living, including instrumental activities of daily living and has no problems with mobility. In the other hand, she has reported that she used to be much more active while her husband was alive and remembers walking the park for at least 20 minutes three times per week. Upon physical examination the following anthropometric measures and vital signs were obtained: Height: 162 cm (5†²4†²Ã¢â‚¬ ²), Weight: 65 kg (143 lbs.), Temperature: 36.2 °C (97.2 °F), Pulse: 82 BPM, Respirations: 20/minute, Blood pressure: 128/74 mm Hg, Active bowel sounds in all four quadrants and abdomen slightly distended without pain or tenderness at the present time. Gait and posture are normal for a patient of her age. There are no complaints related to lower back symptoms, perineal area observed free of any abnormalities or redness, perineal movement and anal sphincter squeeze noted with moderate muscle coordination. Digital rectal examination performed: hard fecal material noted, anal sphincter tone was normal, no rectal prolapse, no hemorrhoids, and no skin tags or anal lesions were noted. Labs results for hemoglobin, 11.8 and urinalysis, negative. Effective assessment provides nurses with the relevant information on which advice, interventions and management can be planned. In addition, it contributes to the path of outcomes measured and evaluation of care. Assessing patients with constipation presents many challenges to the health professional, not only by overcoming communication barriers associated with bowel habits and the embarrassment associated with an intimate rectal examination, but also because constipation may not result from a single straightforward cause. The subjective nature of constipation adds to the difficulty of the assessment, especially as nurses tend to use the objective measurement of bowel frequency rather than using a subjective symptom tool (Kyle, 2011). Assessment is based on a consideration of all the possible causes, while particularly assuring that it is not caused by an underlying undiagnosed medical condition. The aim of assessment is to establish a symptom profile in order to plan individualized bowel care. The main goal of treatment and management for constipation is prevention and relief. Establishing an ideal bowel action should prevent recurrence. Therefore, effective assessment provides nurses with the information on which advice and interventions of management can be planned effectively. Establishing a symptom proï ¬ le assist in identifying the most likely causes for the bowel symptoms based in the context of a more relevant medical/surgical/obstetric history and functional ability. Three main components have been identified as part of the plan of care developed for Mrs. Burns’ current chief complaint. These primary components include: the implementation of an exercise routine, as well as a dietary regimen that will include more ï ¬â€šuids and ï ¬ ber. This is better known as lifestyle advice or step one of a stepped approach to bowel care, which is often recommended for promoting a healthy bowel and is still considered the ï ¬ rst-line treatment for constipation (Kyle, 2010). The implementation of this approached will be monitor by a dietitian, along with the nurses who will provide Mrs. Burns with dietary education and lifestyle modification strategies. In addition, other very important components will be included as well. Mrs. Burns will have a psychological consult as she is at risk for depression as evidenced by her husband’s recent death and feelings of loneliness and sadness. Nurses should develop a more proactive and evidence-based approach to the prevention of constipation rather than continuing with the existing reactive response to this distressing symptom. Such an approach is dependent primarily on improving the education and the skill-base of nursing and those with whom they work. Finally, further research and discussions will add to the knowledge framework of such a significant condition, since so many complications are rooted from unhealthy digestive systems. References Jarvis, C. (2012). Physical Examination. (6th edition ed.). St. Louis: W B Saunders Co. Kyle, G. (2011). Risk assessment and management tools for constipation. British Journal of Community Nursing,16(5), 224-230. Kyle, G. (2010). Considering the options for treating constipation. Practice Nursing, 21(3), 124. Prynn, P. (2011). Managing adult constipation. Practice Nurse, 41(17), 23-28.

Comparative Paper: Beowulf and Batman Essay

A superhero is a fictional character who is noted for feats of courage and nobility, who usually has a colorful name and costume, a mastery of relevant skills, advanced equipment and/or extraordinary powers and abilities beyond those of normal human beings. More importantly, a superhero has a strong moral code, including a willingness to risk his own safety in the service of good without expectation of reward. Although superhero powers vary widely, the posession of superhuman strength, the ability to fly, and enhancements of the senses are all common.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   These abovementioned characteristics of a superhero are evident in Beowulf, the main character in â€Å"the longest surviving poem in Old English†, which is also entitled Beowulf, by an unknown author (Online Reference Book for Medieval Studies, 2006). Beowulf showed signs of being a superhero in what Wikipedia has cited as his three main battles: First Battle: Grendel – When Beowulf, being the prince of a Germanic tribe from southern Sweden called the Geats, led his men to rescue the kingdom of Hrothgar of Denmark from Grendel, a â€Å"solitary fiend† (line 165), who has killed men and brought fear to all in Hrothgar’s charge. Beowulf tears Grendel’s arm from his body and Grendel runs home to die, which caused the Danes and the Swedes to rejoice. Second Battle: Grendel’s Mother – When Grendel’s mother attacks that same night Grendel was defeated, and took one man to avenge her son’s death, Beowulf, along with his men and the Danes, traveled to the lake where this monster-woman lives, but the hero dives into the water alone, eventually defeating the â€Å"towering mere-wife† (line 1519) only by using a magic sword he finds in her cache of treasure (lines 837-1650). Third Battle: the dragon – Beowulf returns home and eventually becomes king of his own people. One day, late in Beowulf’s life, a man steals a golden cup from a dragon’s lair. When the dragon sees that the cup has been stolen, it leaves its cave in a rage, burning up everything in sight. Beowulf and his warriors come to fight the dragon, but only one of the warriors, a brave young man named Wiglaf, stays to help Beowulf, because the rest are too afraid. Beowulf kills the dragon with Wiglaf’s help, but dies from the wounds he has received. The dragon’s treasure is taken from its lair and buried with Beowulf’s ashes.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   These adventures of Beuwolf are somehow being resurrected in today’s superheroes such as Batman, although both represent an entirely different literary traditions. The former is a 10th century Anglo-Saxon epic poem with a touch of Christianity while the latter is a product of what is called as popular culture – movies, shows or comics that usually has a mass appeal. The classic hero possesses strength, ethics; and, above all, fights evil. This model applied in the time of Beowulf still applies today, only slightly modified. As a result of such innovations as television and fashion magazines, society has come to value physical attractiveness and sexual prowess, as evident in the example of Batman. In addition, humility has become a desired quality in modern times, whereas self-confidence to the point of arrogance was a favorable attribute in the time of Beowulf.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Despite the differences, similarities between the Anglo-Saxon hero and modern day hero can be seen through the comparison of Beowulf and Batman. Beowulf and Batman both possess the heroic quality of strength. We have seen Beowulf’s feat in the three battles described above.   Batman, on the other hand, single-handedly fights gangs of criminals on numerous occasions in the movie â€Å"Batman,† showing not only muscular strength, but endurance, much like that of Beowulf. Batman echoes the heroic strength of Beowulf. Another heroic quality shared by Batman and Beowulf is their commitment to fighting evil. When a villain attacks innocent citizens, the hero is there to protect them and fight the attacker.   This is where the fighting of Good versus evil becomes the next major component to the stories of Beowulf and Batman. The Anglo-Saxons were religious people and had a strong belief in God. The hero must kill the villain â€Å"face to face† and never stab it in the back. These heroes represent the Good; they are usually honest, clean, upright respectable people – an archetype for what a model citizen should be. Both the stories tell a tale of Good fighting against Evil and then dying for the people. Both Batman and Beowulf wear this heroic responsibility to fight evil well. However, as opposed to Batman, Beowulf, whose main asset was his amazing hand strength, not much mention was made of his wily good looks or his incredible intelligence (Rollins, 2006). As Christianity spread throughout Europe, feudal cultures told stories that combined their warrior ethos with Christ’s example of personal sacrifice. Despite developing a global culture theoretically no longer quite as dependent on national conquest, the Western world still tends to envision our savior hero as â€Å"someone who kicks butt† (think of Neo in The Matrix) (Wandtke, 2005). Alongside this pervasive trend, however, an interesting countercurrent developed in the Renaissance and has reached its peak in recent years. This countercurrent suggests the hero who rights the wrongs of the world with force might actually be destructive to general cultural development (as one culture’s hero will often be another culture’s villain). Do our warrior heroes provide us with examples of the heights we can reach as Christians? Or do they operate with moral principles that work in opposition to the teachings of Jesus?   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Even though the roles have changed for the heroes throughout time their importance to the countries has not gotten smaller. These heroes’ jobs are also as equally important as the ones of Beowulf’s day because they play a large role in our society. Television, radio stations and comic books are a form of entertainment that allows people to be introduced to heroes and escape their problems and lives, and pretend that these heroes would transport them into a world solely their own, a world where the good triumphs over evil – even for a moment. For as long as there are harsh realities, there is always a room for make-believe. Worls Cited: Abrams, M.H. â€Å"Beowulf.† The Norton Anthology of English Literature. Retrieved 22 Apr   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   2006, . â€Å"Beowulf.† Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. 23 Apr 2006, 12:11 UTC. 23 Apr 2006, 20:48   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   . â€Å"Beowulf: Introduction.† Online Reference Books for Medieval Studies. 08 Aug 2003,    Wandtke, Terry. â€Å"From Beowulf to Batman: Classic Heroism in Contemporary Contexts   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   (Or, Where’s My Jesus Action Figure?).† Imaginarium @ cornerstone festival. 30   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   June 2005,   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   . Rollins, Roger B. â€Å"True Blue Revolutionaries or Tired Beowulf Reruns.† MegaEssays.com.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Retrieved 23 Apr 2006, .