Global Warming Essay Example for Free

Global Warming Essay Introduction Usually when people think of global warming they think of hotter weather. This is not necessarily correct. Global warming is not something that happens over one season but happens gradually overtime. The term global warming is a bit deceptive because it leads people to believe the temperatures will get hotter, this is not the case. Climate change impacts the hydrology and biology of our planet. This can cause stormier, dryer and even in some cases, colder weather. (Maria Trimarchi, 2014) Cultural Relativism When we think of global warming we typically just think about how the climate change is affecting our society. We do not stop and think how the changes affect other under-developed cultures. The article discusses how many under privileged countries die a lot sooner because of climate change. Something that developed countries would not see as quickly. (Sarah DeWeerdt, 2013) Understanding that the carbons and methane we use here in the United States not only affects our air quality and climate control but can have effects in Africa and other countries. The article discusses how the changes in weather from really dry heat to instant down pours of rain affects the agriculture. (Sarah DeWeerdt, 2013) This not only means the region experiencing this change is burdened by the increase and decrease in the climate, but countries doing import and export exchange is also affected. Ethiopia already experiences social and economical problems; climate change will make this country suffer even greater problems. National Geographic states the country already loses thousands of people a year due to effects from the climate. If global warming continues the effects would be catastrophic. (Alan Corbis, 2007) Mechanical Social Solidarity The term social solidarity refers to how a society unifies as a whole in aspects like interests, standards, objectives and sympathies. (Book Reference) Society can take a mechanical or organic approach to this philosophy. A mechanical solidarity society shows high emphasis on religion, society’s interest and has relatively low population rates. An example of this population group would be small tribes in Africa, Ethiopia and South America. Organic Solidarity is the complete opposite. They focus more on secular religion, material possessions, and high population and are human-oriented. The biggest example is America but you could also list China and Japan under this category. (Webster’s Dictionary) The article discusses how global warming is caused by omissions of carbon and methane into the atmosphere. (Sarah DeWeerdt, 2013) Our bigger organic solidarity societies are causing the global warming problems for the mechanical societies. It is unfortunate that we are not only ruining the environment for ourselves but we are also ruining it for innocent bystanders. Ethiopia being one of the poorest countries is being the most hurt by our materialist greed. They do not have the resources to even try and make a difference. Conflict Theory Conflict theories put emphasis on social, political, or material inequalities of a social group. Conflict theories draw attention to power differentials, such as class conflict and generally contrast historical ideologies. (Book reference) Understanding conflict theory is important to see how developed countries are hurting and hindering the development of under-developed countries. Until we draw a full understanding of this, a resolution cannot occur. The article discusses the differences and challenges under-developed countries face compared to developed countries. The risk of disease like Malaria is higher because of contamination and the inability to vaccinate. The United States faces mosquito problems but we do not have the issues of contaminated water. Plus our country also has vaccines to protect our  population unlike most parts of Africa and other countries. (Sarah DeWeerdt, 2013) The article discusses the dry temperatures will cause an increase in mosquitoes and the risk of contracting a disease from insects will increase. Vaccines are a concern but also the inability to control the insect contamination. Major countries have preventatives to control the reproduction of insects. Smaller countries do not have the means to control this growing problem. (Sarah DeWeerdt, 2013) If global warming continues to increase, so will the dangers all from all the effects. Conclusion Our planet as a whole must come up with a solution that protects everyone from the effects of global warming. The countries that pose a risk of losing the most are the ones that do not have the resources to contribute much to the solution. These are also the countries that do not contribute to the problem. Generating lower carbon and methane technology is a must. We need our government and other high power governments to increase federal funding to programs that help in promoting this technology. REFERENCES Corbis, A. (2007). Global Warming Effects. National Geographic. Retrieved on April 24, 2014 from http://www.environment.nationalgeographic.com/global-warming/gw-effects DeWeerdt, S. (2013). Climate Change, Coming Home: Global warming Effects on Population. World Watch. Retrieved from http://www.worldwatch.org/global-warming Trimarchi, M. (2014). Top 10 Worst Effects of Global Warming. Discovery. Retrieved on April 24, 2014 from www.discovery.com/topics/worst_effects_global_warming

Importance Of Continual Self Development Management Essay

Importance Of Continual Self Development Management Essay One of the approaches to leadership is the traits approach as identified by Mullins, 1999 where the assumption is that leaders are born and not created based on the theory of the so-called Great Person theory of leadership. However most of the major existing theories provide the basis that leadership skills can be developed such as the contingency model analyses the leadership styles which can be identified and learned to develop leadership skills. Although leadership and management are seen similar but it has some distinction such as; leaders may not have a hierarchical position but the manager has which was identified by (Mullins, 1999); Leadership does not necessarily take place within the hierarchical structure of the organisation. To be an effective manager it is necessary to exercise the role of leadership (Mullins, 1999). The focus of my work will be on the personal development of managerial leadership where the manager is a leader within a formal hierarchical structure and the word manager and leader has been used interchangeably. For developing leadership and managerial skills the primary initiatives must come from the individual where the opportunities are provided by an organisation. 1. Be Able to Assess and Plan for Personal Professional Development (LO 1) 1.1. The Importance of Continual Self-Development in Achieving Organisational Objectives (AC 1.1) Continuous self-development is the continuous process of developing oneself by building his/her competencies and realizing his/her potential (Rothwell, 2010). Since leaders get others to follow (Mullins, 1999) a leader cannot build talent in others if the leader cannot do it her/him-self (Rothwell, 2010). A leader should realise the importance of continual self-development. The basic concept of continuous self-development has been derived from the concept of continuous development and its objective is to achieve organisational objectives through the recognition of the links between learning and performance (Martin, 2005). An organisation is a group of individuals and as individuals develop, so do the organisations that employ them (Martin, 2005). The performance of employees is directly linked to organisational performance hence the achievement of organisational objectives and the performance of employees can be improved through continuous self-development process. 1.2. Assessment of Current Skills and Competencies against Defined Role Requirements and Organisational Objectives (AC 1.2) Sainsburys is the second retail company in UK (Retail-Index.com, 2012) has various leadership roles and here is an assessment of the skills and competencies requirements against the roles of a cafà © department manager and related company objectives; Skills and Competencies Requirements Role Requirements of a Department Manager of a Depot Company Objectives Related to the Role of Department Manager Leadership skills; Leadership skills are required for the specified role since the department manager needs to lead a group of people in the department and the manager is responsible for them. Knowledge of health and safety requirements are important for the role as the manager will have to ensure safe and secure environment for both customers and other employees. Other skills related with the operations. And all the above skills are required to fulfil the responsibilities and to achieve the objectives. To lead the entire customer restaurant operation to provide a delicious range of meals, snacks and beverages. This will involve providing leadership and coach to colleagues, making sure everyone is in the right place at the right time, and ensuring a safe and secure environment (Sainsburys, 2012). The objective of the cafà © department is to delivering an ever-improving shopping experience for the customers of Sainsburys (Sainsburys, 2012). 1.3. Identifying Development Opportunities to Meet Current and Future Defined Needs (AC 1.3) Here the development opportunities have been identified to meet the current and future needs of the role of a department manager of Sainsburys; Current Skills Needs Future Skills Needs of 2020 Leaders of Sainsburys Development Opportunities The current skills that are required for a department manager are; Extensive leadership skills, Customer service knowledge, Operational knowledge. According to Sainsburys during the next decade, the retail sector will become a very different place (Sainsburys, 2012). To achieve the 2020 vision Sainsburys need the 2020 leaders with different skills and competencies such as; Individuals with; Outstanding intellect, Business acumen and ambition (Sainsburys, 2012). The development opportunities that will be provided by Sainsburys to meet the skills and competencies needs of a department manager under the 2020 leadership programme will be in two phases. First phase: The first phase will involve an introduction to various operational areas such as stores and logistics and then move to Sainsburys local where the manager will be trained on a wider range of retail issues than in a single department (Sainsburys, 2012). The second phase; involves developing the management skills as a Deputy Store Manager or Shift Manager, supply chain management skills, exceptional customer services etc. (Sainsburys, 2012). 1.4. Constructing a Personal Development Plan (AC 1.4) A personal development plan sets out the actions people propose to take to learn and to develop themselves (Armstrong, 2003). The responsibility is taken by the individual and the support is provided by the organisation and their managers. The purpose is to provide a self-organised learning framework as identified by Tamkin, Barber and Hirsh (1995) (Armstrong, 2003). A personal development plan follows the following steps as identified by (Armstrong, 2003); Analyse current situation and development needs Set goals Preparing an action plan Here a personal development plan as a cafà © department manager in Sainsburys has been constructed below; Analysis of current situation and development needs; Current situation; A newly graduate joined as a cafà © manager. No previous work experience Development needs; To obtain operational knowledge, To obtain leadership skills, To obtain knowledge about customer services. To improve innovative and creative skills to contribute to the performance of the Sainsburys cafà ©. (Challenging) Set goals; goals is set to the areas of development needs and they are SMART. Specific: the goals should not be vague. Measureable: the goals needs to be recognised when achieved. Achievable: setting realistic goals. Relevant: have a connection with the development needs. Time bound: there is a time period for achieving the goals. Here are the SMRT and challenging goals for the development needs identified in step one; To read through the operational manual over one month to obtain operational knowledge and perform an MCQ test on operational knowledge. To study books on leadership development and use of coaching and mentor to develop leadership skills for six months and to achieve feedback from the employees. To seek for training on customer services management form the company within six months. To talk with the customers and try to identify their needs and innovate new systems or product idea for improving the performance of the cafà © department. (Challenging) Prepare action plans; The action plan for achieving the operational knowledge might be for example; to collect the operational manual from the office and make copy of them and arrange timely discussion with the senior manager to clearly understand the issues. 2. Be Abel to Plan for the Resources Required for Personal Development (LO 2) 2.1. Identifying the Resources Required to Support the Personal Development Plan (AC 2.1) A personal development plan has been developed in the previous section here the resource requirement has been identified to support the personal development plan; The availability of operational manual and access to it and also online learning resources to so that the operational knowledge can be obtained quickly. An arrangement of training facilities with academic institutions to improve the leadership skills of employees and also different coaching and mentoring facilities to improve the leadership skills. Training and workshop facilities for improving knowledge on customer services. Facilities and options of customer survey to be conducted by the departmental manager so that the departmental manager can develop innovative ideas. 2.2. Developing a Business Case to Secure the Resources to Support the Personal Development (AC 2.2) A business case is a justification of pursuing a course of action in an organisational context to meet stated organisational objectives or goals (Remenyi, 1999). The business case will look at how investment on resources required to support the personal development plan will help achieving various objectives of an organisation; Investment on the resources as identified in section 2.1 will ensure that not only a departmental manager but also other employees will be benefitted to improve their skills and skilled employees will make organisational operations efficient and effective and organisational objectives will be achieved such as minimising costs by improving the efficiency of the organisation. The cafà © department of Sainsburys requires highly skilled employees and with good knowledge of customer services. Investment on personal development resources will help the employees of Sainsburys cafà © department to improve their skills and knowledge with their self-initiatives and in a self-managed learning environment. Employees will improve their efficiency and will reduce the wastage level and minimise the costs hence improve profitability. 3. Be Able to Implement and Evaluate the Personal Development Plan (LO 3) 3.1. Discussion of the Process Required to Implement the Personal Development Plan (AC 3.1) Due to its significant importance in achieving organisational objectives the implementation of personal development plan should be taken very strictly since it is not just mere filling up a performance review from or a guidance note of what employees should do to improve their importance. The introduction of personal development plan requires the following process; Informing the employees: If the employees do not know about the PDP clearly it will be impossible to implement such plan. Hence managers, team leaders and all individuals need to learn about personal development planning (Armstrong, 2009). Participation of employees in the PDP process: Employees should be involved in deciding how the planning process will work and what their roles will be (Armstrong, 2009). Developing a culture of self-learning responsibilities and allowing time and opportunities: It has to be recognised that everyone will need time and support to adjust to a culture in which they have to take much more responsibilities for their own learning (Armstrong, 2009). Providing guidance: Guidance should be given to all concerned regarding how to identify learning needs, the means of satisfying the needs identified and how they should use the available facilities. 3.2. Evaluating the Impact of the Personal Development Plan on the Achievement of Defined Role Requirements and Organisational Objectives. (AC 3.2) We have already considered the role requirements and departmental objectives of cafà © department in Sainsburys retail stores in previous sections which are; To lead the entire customer restaurant operation to provide a delicious range of meals, snacks and beverages. This will involve providing leadership and coach to colleagues, making sure everyone is in the right place at the right time, and ensuring a safe and secure environment (Sainsburys, 2012). The objective of the cafà © department is to delivering an ever-improving shopping experience for the customers of Sainsbury (Sainsburys, 2012). If the cafà © manager prepares a personal development plan such as to develop his/her leadership skills it will help him/her to fulfil his role requirements and achieving the departmental objectives for example the cafà © manager has the responsibilities for leading a group of people and the leadership skills will help him/her in this regard and the leadership skills for example will help the manager to motivate the working group under him to work hard and improve performance of the department hence achieving the objectives. 3.3. Review and Update the Personal Development Plan (AC 3.3) Personal development is a continuous process. Personal development plan is a systematic approach and follows sequential steps in a continuous way. The Scottish Qualifications Authority has identified seven steps process of PDP where the last step is the review and evaluation of the PDP. Review and evaluation of PDP assures that the concerned people have learned something from the PDP process and they can apply the process in the future personal development planning. In the case of Sainsburys cafà © depot the manager can review after frequent interval that the objectives relating to the needs from the PDP are met and take corrective actions and make new and revised plans. 4. Be Able to Promote Healthy and Safe Working Practices (AC 4.1) 4.1. Discussion of the Relationships between Healthy and Safe Working Practices and Organisational Objectives (AC 4.1) The relationship between health and safety working practices and organisational objectives seems very vague at first sight. If we could think an organisation without people there would be no need for this discussion. Organisational objective is a broad concept and there are lot of objectives which pursue an organisations aim, mission and vision. For a simplified discussion we will chose a practical departmental objective of Sainsburys and discuss the relationship between health and safe working Practices and organisational objectives. As it has been identified the objective of the cafà © department is; to delivering an ever-improving shopping experience for the customers of Sainsburys (Sainsburys, 2012). The objective of the cafà © department is very customer centric that the customer must be satisfied. The outcome of productivity inevitably make customer satisfied and in restaurant industries it is very obvious than others. The relationship between customer satisfaction and productivity in the restaurant industry is less ambiguous and customer satisfaction in many ways embodies the ultimate outcome associated with productivity (Gu, n.d.). Healthy and safe workplaces are fundamental to achieving productive work and high quality working lives (Minstry of Business Innovation and Employment, 2012). Hence health and safety practices in the cafà © department can improve the employee productivity which in turn can achieve Sainsburys cafà © departments objective of customer satisfaction. 4.2. An Explanation of the Process for Conducting a Risk Assessment (AC 4.2) According to the Institute of Risk Management risk assessment involves mainly risk analysis and risk evaluation; Risk analysis involves; Risk identification: involves identifying an organisations exposure to uncertainty. This requires detailed information about the companys environment, operation and clear understanding of organisations strategic and operational objectives. In Sainsburys cafà © department an identified risk may be the control of hazardous substances. Risk description: This involves displaying the identified risks in a structured way for better understanding. The above identified risk of Sainsburys can be described as; various cleaning materials used in the kitchen of the cafà © department which are hazardous to health such as; bleach must be used in a guided way. Risk estimation: This involves measuring the possibility of occurrence and the measurement can be qualitative and quantitative. There is a high chance that the cleaning chemicals might become in contact with food. Risk evaluation: involves making decision about the significance of risks. What will be the consequence if such incidents happen; chemicals in food! Causing ill health to customers sues the company resulting to penalty. 4.3. Identifying the Actions Taken by the Manager in Dealing with a Breach in Healthy and Safe Working Practices (AC 4.3) Health and safety in the workplace is a legal issue and in UK it is enforced by the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974. The breach of the law will have serious consequences such as significant amount of penalty and also it has been described how it will affect organisational objectives by worsening employee productivity. The following plan should be under taken if health and safety working practices are breached; To arrange for workshop to improve the knowledge of the employee about the healthy working practices. To give first performance improvement plan if breached after the workshop. To give second performance improvement plan. To give final performance action plan. To dismiss form the job. 4.4. Communicating Responsibilities for Healthy and Safe Working Practices to the Team (AC 4.4) A good communication is essential for ensuring the health and safe working practices without proper communication the whole purpose will be destroyed. Appropriate communication channel must be chosen to make sure health and safety initiatives are co-ordinated and well understood. This may include; Formal: Workplace inspections, health and safety committee meetings, training, incident investigations and reports, or hazard registers; and or Informal: Suggestion box, day to day interactions, tool box meetings or leading etc. 4.5. Relevant Records to Maintain to Demonstrate that Healthy and Safe Working Practices are Met (AC 4.5) Healthy and safe working practices records are both voluntary and mandatory. In UK under the Reporting of Injuries, Diseases and Dangerous Occurrences Regulations 1995 (RIDDOR) it is the duties of the employers, the self -employed and people in control of work premises to report serious workplace accidents, occupational diseases and specified dangerous occurrences (Health and Saftey Executive, 2012). To meet the legal requirements accident and incidents reporting books are maintained by the employers. Organisations also must keep record of health and safety policies manual, health and safety training manual etc. Conclusion Nothing can bring success unless done in a systematic and organised way. Although personal development plan is mostly practiced at organisational level it should start form personal life to decide at a career goal of life and this will bring enrichment in personal life and for the society as well and what would be the meaning of life going on like a rudderless boat when PDP can create a meaning of life.

Light Saber :: essays papers

Light Saber There was once a young man who set forth to accomplish a great feat. On a quest for enrichment and knowledge his journey led him to an institute of higher learning. There he was to amass an immense amount of knowledge and discover secrets only a small portion of society possessed. But this place was far away†¦ it was a new land of snow-covered hills and a beverage called Busch Light. No longer would he be surrounded by the comforts of Smog,, 7-Elevens’s, and drive-by’s. He prepared for his journey the best he could and equipped himself with but one item to insure his safety and well being should anything happen on his quest. Once in this new land he discovered many groups and social structures. One of these stood out from the rest, this one was not a click of hopeless losers but an organization that stood above the others with ideals and principles that forged its members into the highest quality of men, each a Balanced Man in every aspect of life. He knew this small kingdom in the middle of Pullman was where he needed to flourish to become the person his journey was striving to make him. Eventually he became a part of the brotherhood, learning about his new homes past and traditions he began to realize just how profound a decision he had made and was grateful he was experiencing all he was. One evening he was consuming the sacred drinks of his people, filling his body with fluids such as Skip’N’Go and Busch Light. They were having a great gathering that evening with females from all over coming to pay homage to the mighty SigEp house. A member approached this young man and gave him the responsibility to monitor the entrance of the mighty structure and prevent any men from entering and participating that were not of the brotherhood. It would be a difficult task†¦He knew he would need every advantage available to protect the house and prove his loyalty and worth. He went and retrieved the object he knew he would have to one day use†¦with it no man or beast or law enforcement officer would dare confront him or challenge his refusal to let them enter. He stood at the entrance and rejected countless individuals whom he later discovered were called â€Å"haters†.

The Moral Implications of The Pardoner?s Tale and The Nun?s Priest?s T

During the Middle Ages, England was a nation in social chaos. Deception of every kind was rampart throughout the lands. Many people felt that there was a great need for moral improvement in society. In Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales he clearly brings to light his thoughts and concerns of â€Å"ethical cleansing.† No tale more fully expresses this idea than that of â€Å"The Pardoner’s Tale† and â€Å"The Nun’s Priest’s Tale.† â€Å"The Pardoner’s Tale† suggests a profile of the Pardoner as a moral man, a man of God. The narrator is viewed as a wise, gentle, and truthful man who wants to share his story in a respectful tone. His story reveals his message, which is that greed leads to destruction and the corruption of all things good. The Pardoner appears to have beliefs that are consistent with the moral of the story. As he describes the journey of the three riders, he recognizes the evils of being greedy. â€Å"For it was utterly the man’s intent/ To kill them both and never to repent†(255). He is perceived as a holy man who values truth and honesty. His tale describes the downfall in man’s pride and arrogance. This is demonstrated through the irony of the three riders as they seek Death, whom they find when they plot against each other for selfish reasons and kill one another. â€Å"They fell on him and slew him, two to one†¦He took a bottle full of poison up/ And drank and his companion drank from it also and they both perished† (256). The Pardoner’s prologue, however, reveals a man dedicated... The Moral Implications of The Pardoner?s Tale and The Nun?s Priest?s T During the Middle Ages, England was a nation in social chaos. Deception of every kind was rampart throughout the lands. Many people felt that there was a great need for moral improvement in society. In Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales he clearly brings to light his thoughts and concerns of â€Å"ethical cleansing.† No tale more fully expresses this idea than that of â€Å"The Pardoner’s Tale† and â€Å"The Nun’s Priest’s Tale.† â€Å"The Pardoner’s Tale† suggests a profile of the Pardoner as a moral man, a man of God. The narrator is viewed as a wise, gentle, and truthful man who wants to share his story in a respectful tone. His story reveals his message, which is that greed leads to destruction and the corruption of all things good. The Pardoner appears to have beliefs that are consistent with the moral of the story. As he describes the journey of the three riders, he recognizes the evils of being greedy. â€Å"For it was utterly the man’s intent/ To kill them both and never to repent†(255). He is perceived as a holy man who values truth and honesty. His tale describes the downfall in man’s pride and arrogance. This is demonstrated through the irony of the three riders as they seek Death, whom they find when they plot against each other for selfish reasons and kill one another. â€Å"They fell on him and slew him, two to one†¦He took a bottle full of poison up/ And drank and his companion drank from it also and they both perished† (256). The Pardoner’s prologue, however, reveals a man dedicated...

The Days of the Bomb :: Essays Papers

The Days of the Bomb The main goal of the Pacific War was to stop the Japanese from getting out of control. The U.S. government needed to send a message that Japan cannot be allowed to carry out their military imperialism. By 1945, the War in the Pacific was turning quickly to the United States’ favor. The United States Army was island hopping, taking each island and moving on to the next, toward the Japanese mainland. However, the Japanese refused surrender. They withstood each attack and refused to run until fully defeated. Although, the United States Army was relentlessly and inevitably moving towards the Japanese mainland, the Army was still losing troops and equipment. Army officials estimated it would take until the fall of the following year to reach the main island of Japan. In that time, several hundred thousand lives would be lost on both sides. The Japanese were showing absolutely no sign of surrender. The United States had to do something drastic to end the war. They had just one optio n: the atomic bomb. An experiment had been conducted in New Mexico involving the harnessing of the power of the atom. This device would be used in the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki as the United States’ chance to end World War II quickly. The decision to drop the bomb on Hiroshima came directly from then President Harry S Truman. Additional American lives were lost each day. However, Truman knew about the successful testing of the atomic bomb. On the advice of his cabinet, he decided that the bomb was to be used as soon as humanly possible. The whole idea of the atomic bomb was to use it solely as a military weapon, just as any gun or grenade. Truman knew that unleashing the power of atomic energy in the form of a weapon would have serious consequences on the entire world. However, looking at the outcome of war, there was no doubt that World War II was already having that affect on the globe. The bomb was just part of the whole war. Truman, in his memoirs, even said, "I regarded the bomb as a military weapon and never had any doubt that it should be used."1 Any effects of the bomb would just be casualties of war. Winston Churchill, Prime Minister of Great Britain, also saw the bomb as the only way to end the war.

Ronald Reagan – Psychological Eval

He has been called the most significant President of the 20th century. Ronald Reagan’s devotion to the American people and his unwavering commitment to managing both domestic and foreign affairs with sincerity, composure and efficiency provided a beacon of hope in an era that was marked by economic turmoil on the homefront and an impending threat of nuclear war. An analysis of Reagan’s life history, from a psychological standpoint, seeks to reveal the significant factors and influential events that may shed light on how he acquired the distinctive characteristics and how the interplay of how these factors subsequently shaped the extraordinary person he became. It is necessary to consider the influence of heredity, certain family issues, social systems and environment on psychological development. Ronald Reagan was born on February 6, 1911 in the small midwestern town of Tampico, Illinois to Nell (mother) and Jack (father) and older brother Neil. Jack Reagan was a salesman, a staunch Irish- Catholic, a Democrat, despised bigotry and racial discrimination, supported blue collar workers and instilled in his sons the same values. Possibly more influential to Ronald’s psychological development was that his father was also an alcoholic (Gilbert, 2007). This was very difficult aspect of Reagan’s childhood and he struggled to cope with his reality and make sense of his father’s behavior. Ronald's mother, Nelle was a very patient and nurturing woman who doted on her sons. She can be credited for familiarizing Ronald to theater and the stage by sharing with him her love of acting, as she was an actress herself. Being on stage and performing proved to be enjoyable for Ronald, so much so that he went on to star in various Hollywood movies. He even confessed that, â€Å"for a kid suffering childhood pangs of insecurity, the applause was music† (Will, 1990). She made a concerted effort to help them recognize that their fathers alcoholism, while upsetting and hard to understand, was a disease. Nelle was sympathetic in helping her sons deal with their father’s affliction and urged them not to blame their father for succumbing to the disease. She functioned as the constant source of unconditional loving care that seemed to lessen, though not completely diminish, the impact of Jack’s disease (Gilbert, 2007). She reminded her sons how evident their father’s love was when he was not drinking and helped them to maintain love and respect for their father in spite of his weakness. Nelle was a faithfully eligious woman and frequently made visits to families in need, the sick and went out of her way to lend a helping hand to anyone she was able help. Her generosity, kindness and unconditional love had a profound impact on her sons and masked some of the pain and disillusionment associated with their fathers’ alcoholism (Gilbert, 2007). For Reagan, growing up in an environment marked by the staggering paradox of his parents left an indelible impact on his life. His mother was the dependable parent who provided consistent love and guidance. In contrast, Jack Reagan’s alcoholism caused his sons considerable grief and confusion as to why he was unable to conquer his disease. Nelle Reagan wanted to protect her sons by rationalizing Jack’s behavior hoping they would not develop resentment towards their father. These efforts by Nelle, while well intentioned, served to create the illusion that the Reagan home environment was less dysfunctional than it truly was. According to Psychodynamic Theory, her behavior could be interpreted as reflective of an unconscious need to protect her children. Making a consistent effort to assure her sons that their father was the victim of a disease and powerless against his alcoholism could be classified as an illustration of both denial and rationalization. Denial is defined as, â€Å"the persons refusal to acknowledge external realities or emotions† (Kowalski and Westen, 2009). Rationalization can be identified as, â€Å"explaining away actions in a seemingly logical way to avoid uncomfortable feelings† (Kowalski and Westen, 2009). The Reagan family moved many times as a result of Jack’s inability to maintain work. This made it difficult for Ronald to build friendships which inevitably took a toll on his social skills as a boy and his ability to have meaningful relationships as an adult. As a child, Ronald Reagan was an introverted child with low self esteem (Gilbert, 2007). This is highly characteristic of children with alcoholic parents. Many individuals in Reagan’s close knit inner circle observed his reluctance, even inability, to sustain intimate and meaningful relationships with very many individuals. This is consistent to what research suggests about children who grow up in families in which at least one of the parents is an alcoholic. According to an article in the International Journal of Social Sciences and General Studies, â€Å"since the family is the context in which children usually learn to express their feelings, to love and express affection and to trust and share intimate aspects of their lives; it is understandable that many adult children of alcoholics have significant problems with psychosocial adjustment. They show extreme difficulty in sharing themselves in intimate ways with other people† (2010). It seems unlikely that Ronald Reagan, or any child who endures such unfortunate experiences, would ultimately be an actor or the president of the United States! However, the attention that Reagan sought was passive attention. He did not necessarily have to interact with audience members or constituents on a level that forced him to create any intimate, personal bond with these persons. Rather, he was able to operate from a secluded platform where he was able to control people’s perceptions of him. While he proved to be an effective leader and loved President, his childhood and subsequent development were certainly noticeable and undoubtedly affected how he operated as the leader of the free world.

Developing Virgin Coconut Oil-Based Products

One of the definitions of â€Å"virgin† in the Merriam-Webster pocket dictionary is: â€Å"fresh, unspoiled; especially: not altered by human activity.† Virgin coconut oil (VCO or VCNO) is produced from fresh coconut meat (non-copra). This does not pass through RBD processes. It is produced without the use of chemical and heat and does not contain aflatoxin/PAH’s. It retains its vitamin content, especially Vitamin E, an antioxidant, after undergoing the natural process of producing the virgin coconut oil. It is rich in lauric acid, an acid naturally found in mother’s milk that helps develop and strengthen the immune system of newborn babies.It contains medium chain fatty acids that is easily digested by the body and converted to energy.   The virgin coconut oil is a truly unrefined coconut oil made from organic coconuts. Testing done in independent laboratories reveals a 50% – 53% content of lauric acid. No chemical or high-heat treatment is used, and this oil contains no trans fatty acids. The virgin coconut oil has been extracted in an old-fashioned traditional method that has been used for hundreds of years. The coconut trees where the coconuts are sourced by producers are certified organic according to strict USDA standards.This high-grade virgin coconut oil has a long shelf life due to coconut oil's natural anti-oxidant properties. It has the longest shelf life of any plant oil (Tropical Traditions Virgin Coconut Oil, 2005). This product is popular in tropical countries. However, marketing of Virgin Coconut Oil is still not well-established in the United States and Europe.Marketing DescriptionVCO can provide instant energy to the body. According to experts the medium chain (C8 – C12)   fats in VCO is similar to the fats in mother’s milk, that gives babies immunity from diseases. The medium chain fatty acids have antiviral, antimicrobial, antifungal and antiprotozoal properties. It was found out that the most potent is the lauric acid (C12) and its monoglyceride form monolaurin being mentioned as the most potent against lipid coated microorganisms which are not normally cured by ordinary antibiotics.Among the vegetable oils traded in the world, coconut oil is the richest source of medium-chain fatty acids (64%) and lauric acid (48-53%). The numerous health benefits of coconut oil are finally again reaching the mainstream. These benefits are reducing risk of heart disease, promoting weight loss when and if needed, supporting immune system health, reducing your risk of cancer and degenerative diseases, supporting a healthy metabolism, providing an immediate energy source, helping to keep skin healthy and prevent age-related damage, supporting the proper functioning of the thyroid gland, and preventing infections due to harmful bacteria, viruses, yeasts and other micro-organisms.These unique health benefits of coconut oil are directly related to its chemical structure, or more precisel y, the length of its fatty acid chains. That is, coconut oil is comprised of medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs), also called medium-chain triglycerides or MCTs. Coconut oil is nature's richest source of these healthy MCFAs. By contrast, most common vegetable or seed oils are comprised of long chain fatty acids (LCFAs), also known as long-chain triglycerides or LCTs.Objectives and IssuesPromoting VCO will be aimed at the three benefits of the product:Health BenefitsThere are several reasons to explain why long-chain fatty acids are not as healthy as the MCFAs in coconut oil. For one, LCFAs are difficult for the body to break down. They must be packaged with lipoproteins or carrier proteins and require special enzymes for digestion. Also, LCFAs put more strain on the pancreas, the liver and the entire digestive system. These LCFAs are predominantly stored in the body as fat. (That's why most people buy into the myth that fats are automatically â€Å"fattening†). LCFAs can be depo sited within arteries in lipid forms such as cholesterol. On the other hand, however, the MCFAs in coconut oil are healthier, because MCFAs are smaller.They permeate cell membranes easily, and do not require lipoproteins or special enzymes to be utilized effectively by your body. MCFAs are easily digested, thus putting less strain the digestive system. This is especially important for those of with digestive or metabolic problems. MCFAs are sent directly to your liver, where they are immediately converted into energy rather than being stored as fat. MCFAs in coconut oil can actually stimulate your body's metabolism, leading to weight loss (Mercola, 2006).Social BenefitsA noteworthy social benefit of the virgin coconut oil is in positive impact of the virgin coconut oil in obesity. When virgin coconut oil is used by people suffering from obesity, immediate response of the body can be observed. The metabolism of the person who took in virgin coconut oil in their system is chronically inhibited by something that was easily alleviated by â€Å"dilution† or molecular competition.Putting a tablespoonful of coconut oil on some rice during meals and half an hour later will result to normal breathing. The skin become pink and pulse may become normal. Over the next few months, the weight will be slowly and consistently decreasing. Eating more coconut oil lowered weight for some pounds. The anti-obesity effect of coconut oil is clear in the animal studies (Peat, 2004).Environmental BenefitsThere are a number of environmental benefits of virgin coconut oil. Farmers who attempted to use virgin coconut oil for fattening their animals found out that the virgin coconut oil made the animals healthy and active. The waste products excreted by these animals are not hazardous to the environment due to its organic and safe to the environment nature (Peat, 2004).An important thing to note in the production of the virgin coconut oil is that none of the products from this proce ss are wasted. The ground outer shells of the coconut are used for matting and packing fresh plants and flowers. The empty coconut shells are burned for fuel to supply heat for drying the meat. Other uses of the empty coconut shell is in cooking or heating for fuel for a variety of purpose. The exhausted meat as the waste product in the production of virgin coconut oil is often fed to livestock as a nutrient rich meal (Jamaican Gold: Raw Handpressed Coconut Oil, 2006).Product ReviewA.  Ã‚  Ã‚   Different Ways of Branding the ProductAlmost no product is perfect forever. And when the patent runs out, there is always someone who can make it cheaper. But even before the patent ends, there will likely be those who attempt an end run on your process. Most successful ingredient brands have continually refined their products to make them easier to use in manufacturing, or make them cheaper, or to perform better. This way, you will discover any opportunity to improve your product before so meone else does. Ingredient Branding is a different approach to building brand equity. This concept is a way to successfully introduce and market a radically new product.The usual way existing markets name the coconut oil is Virgin Coconut Oil. But this product being proposed here will have the name Coconut Virgin Oil or CVO for short. The CVO will be applied for trade marking that makes the logo come out as CVOTM.Branding the product as such will eliminate the basic idea that the product is of coconut virgin oil. This type of branding is called logo type branding. Marlboro didn’t name themselves Cigarettes or Pepsi naming their company as SoftdrinksTM. CVOTM  Ã‚   as a corporate ID will carry different types and forms of virgin coconut oil products. Each of these forms will have their own sub branding. For example:Product for medicinal benefits will be branded CVOTM   Medicinal.Product for beauty benefits will be branded CVOTM   Beauty.Product for culinary benefits wil l be branded CVOTM   Kitchen.Once the brands are decided and set, personalities will be chosen to partner these brands. A coconut tree will not be used to promote the product. A coconut tree may be developed as a mascot but personalities that can claim the benefits of the product will be more effective. These personalities will be chosen according to their credentials that are palatable and appealing to the target markets.B. Threat of SubstitutesThreats of substitutes are virgin olive oil, virgin pine oil, red palm oil, grapeseed oil, flaxseed oil and many others. Virgin olive oil is obtained only from the olive, the fruit of the olive tree, using solely mechanical or other physical means in conditions, particularly thermal conditions, which do not alter the oil in any way. It has not undergone any treatment other than washing, decanting, centrifuging and filtering.It excludes oils obtained by the use of solvents or re-esterification methods, and those mixed with oils from other s ources. It can be qualified as a natural product, and virgin olive oil can have a designation of origin when it meets the specific characteristics associated with a particular region. Virgin olive oils can have the following designations and classifications depending on their organoleptic (taste and aroma) and analytic characteristics. Tthe degree of acidity refers to the proportion of free fatty acids, not to the taste (Olive Oils Definition, 2006).Virgin pine nut oil (VPO) is the first and only natural and effective appetite suppressant currently known to man. When ingested – either in its pure form or as part of delicious foods – this tasty oil stimulates the abundant release of cholecystokinin (CCK). CCK is a substance naturally produced in the duodenum in the presence of fats and proteins. When delivered to the brain, it tells us to stop eating, thereby reducing the amount of food we consume, as well as our overall intake of calories (Organic Oils, Butters, and Nu t Butters, 2006).Red Palm Oil is produced from the fruit of the oil palm, Elaeis guineensis. It is a vegetable oil, not from an animal or dairy product and therefore does not contain any cholesterol (Organic Oils, Butters, and Nut Butters, 2006).Grapeseed Oils Infused with all-natural, fresh herbs, our Salute Sante! Infused Grapeseed Oils shine with delicious flavor and have a light texture and mouthfeel. A tasty substitute for butter, margarine and other saturated fats, use these oils as a delicious dip for bread, drizzle over salads and fresh vegetables, or use as a â€Å"liquid spice† in your favorite recipes (Organic Oils, Butters, and Nut Butters, 2006).Flaxseed oil contains linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid needed for survival (Thompson,   et al., 1996). According to the authors, unlike most oils, it also contains significant amounts of another essential fatty acid, alpha linolenic acid (ALA). They further mentioned that the effect of ALA as an isolated substance , and of flaxseed oil on the risk of cancer in humans remains unclear, with most animal and test tube studies suggesting protection, and some preliminary human trials suggesting cause for concern.They have stressed, however, that it is premature to suggest that ALA and flaxseed oil will either cause or protect against human cancer at this time (Thompson, et al., 1996). Flaxseed oil is not suitable for cooking and should be stored in an opaque, airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer. If the oil has a noticeable odor it is probably rancid and should be discarded (Flaxseed and Flaxseed Oil. Health Notes, 2006).C.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Competitive RivalryDespite the numerous organic oils that are available in the market, competitive rivalry is existing in the market. Since the introduction of the virgin coconut oil in the market, there is an observed potential and competitiveness of the virgin coconut oil in the international market (Virgin Coconut Oil, 2006).D.   Product Uniquen essCVO is a the brand that values and sells integration. The integration of all three benefits of the coconut virgin oil will spell originality of this product. Many sellers of virgin oil are in the market but all their existing brand marketing remains like the back yard type. CVO will be striking because it will project a global brand bringing all the benefits of CVO that can be accessed by different local and inter-nation markets, single consumers or bulk buyers that use the CVO in their businesses.The vision of CVO is to project a global brand that promotes the coconut and its organic benefits to human kind.Marketers should understand that when global brands are desirable, it is not simply because they are global, but rather because their globalness implies other traits, such as quality and prestige. ‘There's a certain cachet of quality that comes with being available around the world, but it's not automatic,' says third co-author, Dana L. Alden, a professor of marketing at the University of Hawaii. ‘The brands that tend to be successful around the world tend to be of higher quality and are promoted as such (The Global-Brand Advantage, Spring 2003).Action ProgramThe mission of the product is to earn from promoting a healthy lifestyle using the coconut virgin oil. The goals of the product is to sell through distributors and retail outlets the many forms of CVO packed in a variety of ways suited for different uses. Thus, CVO will be promoted as a product beneficial to the body, lifestyle and environment. Promotion will be focused on the internet, health stores and grocery stores. Three promotional strategies are explained below.The plan will use personalities to promote the product. Using this strategy is still a cut above the rest using personal testimonies from man on the streets. The product must find people from different fields to help promote it. A deemed scientist will be found to endorse its chemical stability and safety. A super star will promote its beautifying effects. A known woman – mother advocate will be helpful in promoting its cooking and lifestyle benefits.2. Another plan for promotion will include giving away trial samples for free. Each time they buy a certain amount of product, the clients will be awarded a free pack that they can share to their friends who would like to try. Advocates who believe in the product can easily promote it. Giving them resources to help their own little promotion will have good future effects.3. A good promotional activity is advertisement in the various media such as newspapers, television, radio, and other events. The advertising arm must maximize events that center on alternative lifestyle and venues that promote environmental consciousness. Sponsorships in cash or in kind is also a good way to help promote the product. Users who can give the advertising arm information that can lead towards the promotion of the product in their communities will be awarded free produ cts.Proposed Budget$ 50,000 – Product Development and Importation of processed virgin coconut oil$ 30,000 – Advertising Costs$ 20,000 – Miscellaneous (Salaries, Incidentals)$100,000 – TotalProfits will be earned through proper management of sourcing of raw materials. Processed and bottled can be bought at an average of $ 3.00 per 500 ml. Prevailing retail price without shipping costs is $17.00 per 500 ml on the average. Retail is more than five times the cost which makes it viable for product development.ControlThree scenarios are seen as the CVO product penetrates a market. One, it is well accepted. Two, CVO is generally rejected. Three, CVO becomes unnoticed.The first scenario is favorable. Promotions and marketing goes into the market, information is heard, the product is sampled, and the consumers love it. This will look and sound easy but the challenge in this scenario is how to make these CVO goers and users become advocates. A bigger challenge is h ow to sustain the quality of the product they liked. There will be times when a consumer who easily accepts a new product has also the tendency to easily change his mind when another product comes along. These consumers will always try something new and thereby one can describe their product loyalty at a minimum. Making these consumers loyal is the job of the company.Works CitedJamaican Gold: Raw Handpressed Coconut Oil.   29 Nov. 2006. Oregon: The Essential Oil Company. http://www.essentialoil.com/Jamaican%20Gold.html.Mercola, Joseph. â€Å"Pure Virgin Coconut Oil: The Healthy Fat That Ignites Weight Loss, Banishes Infection, And Heads Off Heart Disease† (Among Other Things †¦). 29 Nov. 2006. BBB Online.   http://www.mercola.com/products/coconut_oil.htm.Olive Oils Definition. 29 Nov. 2006. Greenbrae: The Olive Oil Source. http://www.oliveoilsource.com/definitions.htm.Organic Oils, Butters, and Nut Butters. 29 Nov. 2006. All Things Coconut. http://www.smartsupply.us/ oil-butter.htmPeat, Raymond. Coconut Oil. Virgin Coconut Oil Testimonials, 2004. 29 Nov. 2006.   Conuq, Inc. http://www.conuq.com/peat-art1.htmlThe Global-Brand Advantage. MIT-Sloan Management Review, Spring 2003. 29 Nov. 2006. MIT-SMR. http://sloanreview.mit.edu/smr/issue/2003/spring/1g/Thompson, L.U., Rickard, S.E., Orcheson, L.J. and. Seidl, M.M. Flaxseed and its Lignan and Oil Components Reduce Mammary Tumor Growth at a Late Stage of Carcinogenesis. Carcinogenesis, (1996)17:1373–6.Tropical Traditions Virgin coconut Oil. Holistic Beauty, 2005.   29 Nov. 2006. Natural Solutions-Holistic Beauty, Body & Bath. http://www.holisticbeauty.net/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=280.Virgin Coconut Oil Set to Enter U.S. Market. 29 Nov. 2006. Alternative Medicine. Best Health Options. http://besthealthoptions.com/alternative-medicine/2006/06/05/virgin-coconut-oil-set-to-enter-us-market/