How policies and procedures promote health, safety and security in a health and social care setting Essay

The employer’s position is to supervise the health, security and safety of all the staff, visitors, volunteers to the grounds of the building and also its service users. Employers may assign accountability for health and safety to the employees, health and safety agents, administrators and the service users as well. But, it is still the employer’s job to have supreme accountability for health and safety . Another of the employer’s roles is to make sure that all of the staff that is working under the employer is CRB checked. For under the Independent Safeguarding Authority’s’ (ISA) Vetting and Barring Scheme all staff also including any volunteers that work with people that are vulnerable have to be CRB checked. The reason for this is to make sure that the staff or volunteers are appropriate for the part that they are applying for and have not beforehand injured a child or a vulnerable adult or put then in danger of injury. It is a criminal offence for a person that is barred by the ISA to apply to work or work, with vulnerable adults or to work with children. It is also the employer’s role to reduce the risk of abuse and the way that the employer does this is by the CRB checks because it stops or reduces the chance of the staff harming the service users. Another way that the employer could stop this is by training the staff so that they will work better and so (for instance) not to be tempted to abuse a service user because the staff member is angry. The employer should also monitor the staff so that they are not doing things that they should not be doing. The ways that the employer can monitor the staff can be by monitoring the staff’s phone calls, their computers and also their accounts to see if they are doing things that they should not be doing and which could harm the service users . It is also the employer’s role to report abuse from the employees to the police The Employers responsibilities The Employers are accountable for the health and safety of employees, any visiting workers from other institutes and also visitors when they are on the grounds of the building. There are legal and organisational requirements that they have to abide by to keep people safe. In an organisation an individual will be selected to supervise health and safety for the employer. Who to make sure that they can do this say that it is vital that the person selected to supervise health and safety has to have or is keen to start a Health and Safety at Work qualification. This will obtain for the person a detailed understanding of legislation and also how to succeed in health and safety in the place of work. This will make the individuals will have a bigger chance of being safe . Records have to be maintained of all incidents and accidents as after an occurrence, the employer has a duty to evaluate the settings policies and procedures and reflect on whether the reason the occurrence was because of a fault in the system. This will stop the same hazard from happening again and also to see who is at fault for if an employee is badly hurt, because of a fault in the system, recompense would be required to be paid to the person hurt for any charges gained or loss of salary consequently because of the damage. This is why an employer should make sure that the place of work is entirely insured. The â€Å"Employers Public Liability Insurance and Compulsory Liability Insurance† is what will have to be taken out . The employer has to foresee any hazards and put into position dealings to decrease these risks from happening. To do this they do a risk assessment. This is when they observe a service user doing something and then decide the possible dangers that there are and how to overcome these dangers. ( This job can be given to suitable employees) For example, they could observe manual handling, where the capability of a service user to move themselves, possibly from their chair to their bed, will be viewed by the employer, and the best appropriate gear recognized to reduce the danger of the service user falling or acquiring uncomfortable skin from the abrasion . The employer has to make sure that the setting has health and safety procedures and policies written specifically for it. Which the employer has to check frequently to certify that the procedures and policies are keeping staff, service users and visitors safe from coming to any harm. The employer also has to put on training sessions for staff. All the staff ought to be given health and safety training in the first week of have being employed, to make sure that they will know what to do in the case of any immediate hazards to a person’s health and safety. The employer should ensure that any staffs do not manually handle any service users minus the proper training. This will ensure that that people do not pose a risk to another person because they do not have the knowledge to deal with the problem. The employer is also accountable for making sure that hazardous waste is got rid of properly, this means that it is put into specialist containers and then be put into lockable bins outside the building where certain members of staff can put the waste when the specialist containers are filled. The local council or a specialist private company will pick up these containers. This is all done to stop the spread of infection. The employer must also provide safety equipment like throwaway protective aprons and gloves for the staff to get rid of and transport the bodily waste. It is also the employer’s duty to make sure that all the staff is appropriate or fit for the job. Under the Department of Health’s Protection of Vulnerable Adults order all staff working in care homes, adult placement and domiciliary care has to be CRB checked against the Department of Health’s Protection of Vulnerable Adults list, to check if they have before injured a vulnerable adult or placed a vulnerable adult at risk of any harm. It is furthermore the duty of the employer to foresee danger or harm to a person and to install ways to decrease a risk occurring . Employers have to make a fire evacuation plan in case of any fires to ensure that the people the setting are safe and that they know what to do. To achieve this the employer have to make sure that fire evacuation regulations are on display so that everyone can see then and will know what to do in cause of an emergency so that they can get out as quickly as possible. The employer ought to make a member of staff a fire chief who trains all new staff on the evacuation design. The employees in charge of the evacuation plan have to have a comprehensive evacuation map and have precise information on evacuation as they are probably going to be the last persons who are left in the construction. There must also be evacuation actions, fire principles and fire exits in place. There furthermore should be routine fire drills. Employers have to make available suitable accommodations to preserve personal sanitation and have the kitchens designed suitably to evade contamination from other food supplies. This will stop/hinder the spread of infection. The employer has to keep a safe atmosphere for the staff and theservices users and have to track abuse and violence against employees and other professionals. They have to certify the safety of prescription medications and other supplies. Employers return to assessments yearly and proceed to confirm control procedures are in home. Employee’s roles in a care setting Employees also have the responsibility to keep safe themselves, their co-workers, service users and visitors from injury. It is the role of the employees to keep themselves, their colleagues, visitors and service users safe from harm. There are legal and organisational requirements that they have to abide by to keep people safe. The Employees responsibilities Employees must follow organisational policies and procedures otherwise the money financed in health and safety by the employers will be irrelevant. Also Employees will not be able to claim compensation if they have an accident or incident because they were not following procedures. So an employer has to use the equipment given, be present at the training sessions, and follow all the guidance that is there for their safety. This will ensure that they are safe and the people under there care are as well. All the employees have to sign in and out of the workplace so that it is known whether or not they are in the building. Employees have to be careful that everyone who entering the building has a genuine reason for being there. Employees must always ask who the person is and why they are there and who there are to visit. An employee should know what to do if a visitor arrives who is not allowed access to a certain service user . An employee must recognize hazardous circumstances and must not ignore it. For instance, a spillage might cause a person to slip and fall, or if it is a hazardous material, it might cause an infection to spread. An employee must report the spillage and put up a sign warning people. Any Items that will obstruct fire exits or will produce a tripping risk must always be moved and put away. And any defective equipment should be reported, so that accidents may be avoided in the future and also so that maintenance can be done on the faulty equipment. As an employer you have to shut and lock any external doors that have been left open or unlocked, and then check why/what it was open for. This will stop strangers getting in and children or patients with problems (like dementia) getting out. As an employee it is vital that you use and store supplies and gear as stated by the producer’s instructions, policy, guidance and legislation. An employee has to make sure that any dangerous materials are stored away in a suitable place when people do not use them. For instance, combustible ingredients have to be kept away from a heat supply. Staff that are in charge for medication have to make sure that the cupboard where the drugs are kept is locked and that the trolley with the drugs on is locked also to the wall when not in use. Also employees have to make sure that the distributing of medication is recorded so that if someone steals any it will be found out quicker as there will be inconsistencies. And furthermore employees have to make sure the temperature where the medication is stored is reserved at the right temperature as the wrong temperature can change the nature of the medication making it poisonous to the patient. When service users do their own medication it has to be unreachable for the other residents. Some groups give the service users a key to a little drug cabinet which will be in their room. This is all done to stop others from gaining access to the person’s drugs. All medical stocks, like needles and syringes, have to be locked away. Certain substances might be required to be kept in a refrigerator, like liquid drugs. Neatness is vital when you are working in a care setting, as it will stop people tripping and falling over but also so that objects may be found rapidly in an urgent circumstance. Furthermore dry things have to be stored in a place that does not contain any moisture as this will make them unusable. It is moreover an employee’s duty to inform of every threat that they recognize. They should not leave is so that someone else can deal with it. Employees have to uphold hygiene in their work place this is very important as it is very easy to get ill and pass on infections through food so to prevent this, employees have to cook food at the right temperature to stop the food being undercooked to throw away food when it pass its use by date, to wear personal protective gear to stop infection increasing/spreading and using separate knives and cutting boards for vegetables, fish and meat. Lone workers still have to abide by rules and regulations to keep themselves safe and the people that they work for. Lone worker have to comply by the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 which state that lone workers have to recognize dangers of the work that they are doing and Measure the hazards encompassed and furthermore they must put in place actions to gauge and limit these hazards . Sources: Health and Safety book 1

Comparative of the Great Gatsby, Casablanca and Translations Essay

The texts which I have studied in my comparative course are â€Å"The Great Gatsby† (G.G.) written by F. Scott Fitzgerald. â€Å"Casablanca† (C.B.) directed by Micheal Curtiz and â€Å"Translations† (T.) written by Brian Friel. The cultural context of all three texts impacts on how and why the people behave the way they do. In this essay I will examine the elements which I thought had the most significant impact on the characters which contributed to their behaviour throughout the narratives. The first aspect I will examine is the setting of all texts – how it impacts on the way in which the main characters act and the consequences it has on their behaviour. G.G. is set in the â€Å"Roaring Twenties† in America. Fitzgerald set G.G. in an altered version of Long Island and Manhattan where Great and Manhasset Neck became East and West Egg and the large landfill site at Flushing is renamed the ‘valley of ashes`. This glamorous decade of the 1920à ¢â‚¬â„¢s was one of great cultural, artistic and social developments. WWI had ended in 1918 and left people disillusioned. This generation that fought and survived were ‘the lost generation`. At this time, America seemed to throw itself headlong into a decade of madcap behaviour and materialism. This era, also known as ‘The Jazz Age` was improvised and wild, jazz broke the rules of music just as ‘The Jazz Age` thumbed its nose at the rules of the past. Now, the ‘American Dream` became prominent and the idea of America being a land of opportunity was challenged and people came to believe that a determined and able individual could achieve anything, regardless of their social background. This was a pursuit of wealth. G.G., unlike the other two texts is set in a time where although having just came out of war, no other country imposed on America’s freedom, which I think led to freer morals and loser behaviour among the people (for example, the widespread infidelity). Unlike G.G., C.B is set in Morocco’s real costal city of Casablanca under Vichy French rule (a puppet administration for the Germans) during the early days of WWII. At this time, people from all over the world, especially Nazi occupied Europe, came to Casablanca. Some trying to escape and others, scam artists trying to get rich. It is described as a â€Å"torturous refugee trail† to reach Casablanca where they â€Å"wait† for passport visas (letters of transit) to escape. The social setting of C.B. is presented to us as we see a globe revolving slowly at the beginning of the film. An authoritative male voice gives us the time setting for the film. The main action of the film covers three days in the life of Rick Blaine, an American who has fled from Paris as the Nazis occupied it. He has set up a cafà © in CB as he tried to forget his past and a disastrous love affair. â€Å"Rick’s Cafà © Americano† is the most popular hang out, a place where shady dealings and gambling take place. T. differs from both texts as it celebrates the day-to-day and the wit and humour the mundane. Unlike G.G. and CB, T is not remotely glamorized. However, T and CB are alike in the sense that both texts contain people who strive to gain their countries independence. The setting of the play T. is a small rural Irish speaking community in the fictional townland of Baile Beag in County Donegal. The year is 1833 and Ireland is under British Rule and part of the British Empire. It is a community of tenant farmers and fishermen where inhabitants eke out a living from the land by growing potatoes by fishing or by rearing livestock. The local people worry about the possibility of potato blight, unlike the people in CB and GG who are hungry for achieving money through business and corrupt practices. The people of Baile Beag are dependent on the land, this is poignant considering the play is set not long before the Great Famine. There are very few employment opportunities in the area and people are shabbily dressed, whereas in both alternative texts the main characters have a demure fashion sense and look to be rich. However, like CB the people are eager to flee their county in T. Emigration is among the options available to those who want to better their situation. The British army arrives in Baile Beag to conduct a survey of the area in order to make a new map and the soldiers are required to anglicise the place names as they go along. The changing of the ancient place names will have a ruinous destructive effect on the culture of the area. The new English names are both meaningless and empty. Another aspect which I feel is a central factor in all three texts is the role of both men and women and how each sex act towards each other. The three narratives reflect similar values in relation to males being the dominating sex and often in a negative context. They are commonly the bread winners and superior to women. In GG, Tom Buchannan is very negatively portrayed. He is powerful and aggressive. We see Tom’s belligerent personality when he is physically abusive to Myrtle by breaking her nose with his open hand. Myrtle and Tom are both married to other people, but have an affair together. Tom is self absorbed and selfish, he does not give his wife Daisy a second thought when being unfaithful. This theme of negatively portraying men is also prominent in CB, Rick is selfish â€Å"I don’t stick my neck out for anyone†. In CB, Rick is shown not to respect Yvonne. He sends her on her way with a bar man who works for him because he thinks she is â€Å"too drunk†, Ugarte responds to this action, â€Å"you cannot throw women around like that, some day they may be scarce†. In all three texts alike, men fight for the love of a woman, which is illustrated in a macho sense. In GG Tom and Jay fight for Daisy’s love., in CB Rick and Laslo fight for Ilsa’s love and in T George and Manus fight for Marie’s love. Aspiration and optimism i s a common factor across the three texts. Daisy aspires to make it work with Tom, Ilsa wants to work her relationship with Laslo out and Marie will rekindle her love â€Å"when George returns†. All three women live in hope for a better tomorrow. The role of women is a common feature in each the texts. In all three women have no independence; they rely on the men to provide for them. They do not work and are all seen as weak. They are all dominated by men and accept this fact. In GG, Daisy is rich and lives a luxurious lifestyle. Daisy is a lazy character, â€Å"She made an effort to rise† when Nick entered the room but was â€Å"paralysed with happiness†. Daisy states, â€Å"I’ve been lying on that sofa for as long as I can remember† and says â€Å"We ought to plan something† to Jordan. However, she is presented as being unhappy â€Å"she cried and cried†, she describes her own daughter is seen as being a â€Å"beautiful little fool†. Daisy also engages in an affair wit h Jay Gatsby, the culture causes Daisy to behave in this immoral manner. In CB, women rely on men to make a life for them and free them from the confinement of Casablanca. They are portrayed as being vulnerable. Ilsa relies on the men, Rick or Lazlo to get her the letters of transit. The women in CB conform to the traditional roles In T. again, women have no independence, they depend solely on men to work and provide for them. Sarah succeeds in overcoming speech difficulty, but is then worse at the end of the play. She is presented as being weak and shy. She has a â€Å"waif-like† appearance. In my opinion, Sarah symbolizes the suggested fragility and vulnerability of women. But, Marie on the other hand is a strong character. She is a hard worker â€Å"look at the blisters† and makes an outspoken decision not to marry Manus, solely as a means of survival. Similarly in all three texts, we capture a soft and loving side to the women; Ilsa loves both Rick and Lazlo. But these loves are very different. Daisy loves her daughter tenderly and Marie falls in love with George. Although the three texts are alike in a sense, there is a great variation in the types of women we encounter across the three texts. In GG Myrtle is a feisty character, she stands up for herself to Tom â€Å"I’ll say whatever I like† but is dominated by him, the man whom she is having an affair with. He breaks her nose and she carries on meeting with him. Myrtle’s feisty independence has only a contradiction on itself however, as she only moves from ones mans dominance to another. She is under the control of her husband who has to provide for her. Jordan also has an incurable dishonesty; I don’t think she comes across as a nice character but I do not blame the characters for engaging in such dishonesty but only the culture in which they live. Another aspect of the cultural context which I feel contributes to how and why the people in the texts behave the way the do is religion. In the world of the three texts, religion is not an integral part of everyday life. It is not significant in their lives. Interestingly, in GG a dominant symbol within this novel is the billboard eyes of Dr. T.J. Eckleburg. The eyes symbolize the loss of spiritual values in America. The billboard was erected to promote the business of an optometrist in Queensborough – the eyes symbolize the growing commercialism of America – life in America is all about making money, a lot of money as evidenced by the wealth of people like Tom Buchanan – a man’s success is measured in terms of how much money he is worth, not on what kind of person he may be morally. The billboard, like the spiritual values of America, is neglected – â€Å"But his eyes, dimmed a little by many paintless days, under sun and rain, brood on over the solemn dumping ground.† The old-fashioned values of America, which Nick Carraway returns to reconnect with in the mid-West are completely absent from the East, God seems to have abandoned America, leaving only Dr. T.J. Eckleburg behind to stare down with his empty eyes on people who have abandoned their spiritual values in the quest to achieve material wealth. In â€Å"CBâ€Å", religion is irrelevant in their lives. They have no time for religion. We see one reference to religion throughout this film which was when Ilsa said to Rick a heartfelt â€Å"Bless you†, however this still does not suggest a religion had a major role in the text. The lack of religion, I think is due to the diverse multi-cultural society. CB is a temporary destination for people fleeing. In stark contrast, in â€Å"T† we see an abundance of religious references which show us the extent of their faith. In this society, religion plays an integral part and influences their behaviour. It is a constant feature of their everyday lives and conversation – â€Å"God save us† and â€Å"The God’s truth†. All the characters have a strong, unflinching catholic faith. Religion is used as a crutch to help people get through the harsh realities of their lives. â€Å"Sweet God did the practise crop ever fail in Baile Beag†¦ Never†, this is an emphatic statement. â€Å"Never† shows their trust and faith in God it is a solace from their meagre and primitive existence. Religion fortifies them. Religion takes place in baptisms, wakes and funerals. There is a big difference in the prevalence and strength of religion in the three texts. There is another aspect which I feel impacts significantly on how and why the people in the three tex ts act the way they do, alcohol. There is a parity across all three texts. Alcohol is used for both celebration and comfort. In GG, alcohol is prohibited. Although it is illegal, it can be seen everywhere throughout the text. People who stayed sober were regarded as â€Å"deplorable and boring†. The ban of alcohol (â€Å"The Prohibition†) created a thriving underworld designed to satisfy the massive demand for bootleg liquor among rich and poor alike. Alcohol is seen as a source of comfort for Daisy on her wedding day to escape the harsh reality of not having Tom â€Å"as drunk as a monkey†. The reckless abuse of alcohol is also something that contributed to the death of Myrtle. â€Å"GG† is unlike â€Å"CB† where alcohol is seen as a way of socialising in this society. All the action throughout the film takes place in Ricks cafà © where alcohol plays a major role. Similarly to â€Å"GG†, we see alcohol being consumed for both celebration and comfort. Ricks toast to Ilsa â €Å"Here’s looking at you kid† with champagne is seen as them using alcohol to celebrate their future. Although we see Rick angry, bitter and so deeply hurt by the return of Ilsa that he drinks heavily. In Ricks time of despair he lashes out at Ilsa as a result of alcohol which is the only time we see the abuse of alcohol. However, in â€Å"T† alcohol is used as a sign of celebration whether it religious or social. When Owen returns home he promises his father â€Å"You and I are going to get footless drunk†. Hugh is seen to always of has consumed an amount of alcohol and never appears sober. I feel alcohol is a key factor that results in the people of the narratives acting the way they do. The final aspect I will explore which I think influences the varied societies to behave in certain ways is their social status, wealth and poverty. There is a stark contrast in the event of wealth in all three texts. In â€Å"GG† there is an abundance or wealth, opulence and extravagance. The majority of the characters live in an area of over indulgence. We learn that Tom gave Daisy a â€Å"string of pearls valued at $3500†. Social snobbery is prevalent for instance, servants. Jay Gatsby hosts lavish parties an there is no expense spared. His ostentatious mansion was bought to only please Daisy to try and woo her. George Wilson is an example of complete contrast to Jay, he lives in extreme poverty. The interior of his garage is described as â€Å"un-prosperous and base† In â€Å"CB† we see an obvious affluence in formal dress and gambling but not to the same extent as in â€Å"GG†. However, â€Å"CB† is similar to â€Å"GG† in the sense that wealth grants one power and freedom. Rick’s lucrative business puts him in the position of authority but in my opinion the transit papers appear to be the most valuable currency. â€Å"T† is the antithesis to the other two texts. The society is present as primitive and destitute. People are poor peasants who are dispossessed. The annual salary for a teacher is 56 pounds, thus highlights the poverty in contrast to the other two texts. I think there is a strong sense of stagnation in this text. There is a lack of finance reflects in the lack of health care and â€Å"infant mortality†. Maire knows she has to learn English to move forward economically. There are gedge schools where children are educated in comparison to the mansions in the â€Å"GG†. Malnourishment is prominent and is due to the lack of proper food. Sarah is described as â€Å"waif-like†. Through my study of the comparative texts, I have found that the cultural context of the narratives impacts on how and why the people behave the way they do. It allowed me to establish a greater understanding of the characters themselves and to appreciate the circumstances at a deeper level in the lives of the protagonists.

Cuba’s Environmental Problems

When socialism was introduced to Cuba, the idea was that it would be more eco-friendly than capitalism. Instead, the Revolution to quickly controlled two major factors that eventually led to environmental problems in developing countries: population growth and poverty. Contributing to the issue of poverty in Cuba are the financial, economic and commercial blockades imposed by the United States. In order to preserve the environment in Cuba and combat these issues, serious action was necessary. The amount of environmental damage falls into two categories: a) small-scale environmental destruction committed by individuals through illegal hunting, deforestation, dumping of waste into aquatic ecosystems, etc. ; or b) large-scale environmental destruction resulting from major projects and industries approved by governmental agencies and owned by international companies, like hotel chains and mining companies after the Special Period, and agriculture before the Special Period†. [1] The opportunity for Cuba to protect its environment came after the fall of the Soviet Union and the strengthening of the US blockade in 1990. This period, referred to as the Special Period (1990-2000), witnessed a decrease in many environmentally damaging activities both by choice and by necessity, but also resulted in many decisions to resuscitate the Cuban economy. After the Earth Summit in 1992, following Fidel Castro’s speech regarding the condition of the environment on a global scale, Cuba designed and implemented a variety of programs, administrative structures, and public awareness activities to promote sound environmental management and sustainable development. What is most important is the damage that ahs already been done and the efforts to reverse these conditions. Currently, there are many efforts to bring the Cuban environment to a sustainable level. When the former socialist countries of Eastern Europe ended trade and financial relationships with Cuba, the island was forced to make severe adjustments. The emergency measures implemented by the Cuban government aimed at preventing the total economic collapse of the regime, have been referred to by the leadership as the â€Å"special period in peacetime. † This Special Period brought about â€Å"the creation of the Ministry of Science, Technology and Environment (CITMA) in 1994 [which] provided an important impetus for environmental policy and management on a national scale. †[2] In 1995 the National Environmental Strategy (EAN) was designed, but was not approved by the government until 1997. Since then the EAN â€Å"is the guiding document of Cuban environmental policy, establishing the principles upon which the national environmental efforts are based. †[3] The strategy identifies the main environmental issues in Cuba and proposes ideas and various methods to prevent, solve or minimize these problems. The strategy goals are to improve environmental protection and the use of natural resources in an attempt to meet sustainable social and economic development objectives. Evaluations of Cuba's environmental record in comparison with Eastern European records shows â€Å"that environmental deterioration in Cuba over more than three decades of socialist rule responded to specific conditions not usually found in developing countries†¦ but were present in the former Soviet Union and the former Eastern European socialist countries. [4] As a result of this, Kirwin Shaffer states that: Consequently, central planning ignored local environmental concerns. Also, the absence of private ownership and the lack of citizen input in decision making meant that all decisions affecting the local level were made with regard to how they fit with the overall national plan. Results and impacts at the local level were secondary. Which leads to these conclusions: Cuban agricultural and industrial development following the Soviet models have had similar consequences for water, soil and air pollution as found in Europe. 5] The current Cuban stance that attempts to blame the USSR for these effects in Cuba benefits Cuba’s political system because it takes the blame away from the state, but it is not served by the historical record. The glorified â€Å"greening† of Cuba during the 1990s has beneficial impacts over the short term, but, according to Diaz-Briquets and Perez-Lopez, economic costs and turns toward a development model based on tourism may soon erode those short-term gains. Cuba's pollution and contamination problems are widespread, and not completely the result of Soviet-style development projects. Yet, there is no doubt that many of the current environmental problems in Cuba result mainly from sovietization of the Cuban economy. Soil erosion and soil degradation are the main problems in agriculture. These problems started primarily due to the intensification of mechanized agriculture and the use of petrochemical herbicides and pesticides. [6] Agriculture is just one of the many environmental issues the island faces. In terms of the land, â€Å"the harm caused by permanent crops to these lands is primarily due to a lack of crop rotation causing soil depletion, poor agro-technical management and insufficient fertility measures. †[7] In 1970 La zafra de los diez millones, took place, in which the Cuban government attempted to break all historic sugar production records by producing a ten million ton sugar harvest. [8] The government fell short of their goal by two tons, but by this point the damage was already done. Because crops take so much nutrients from the land, farmers alternate crops each year to allow the land to recover. During la zafra de los diez millones crops were not alternated which took a heavy toll on the land. In Cuba, poorly designed and implemented agricultural development policies have been a major contributor to the degradation of the country’s soils: Soil degradation continued apace with the agricultural practices that came to prevail in Cuba during the first half of the twentieth century as more and more virgin islands were brought under sugarcane and livestock production. There is mounting evidence that the pace of soil deterioration intensified during the second half of the century, principally because of the widespread adoption of modern agricultural practices, particularly from the 1960s to the late 1980s. As in the Soviet Union and other socialist economies, the collectivization of the rural sector was regarded as necessary for achieving the goals of a centrally planned command economy. Collectivization would make possible economies of scale and bring the advantages of mechanization and modern scientific agriculture. 9] After the collectivization of land agrarian reforms were implemented to return the land to the state and to its’ citizens. But this shift in land ownership could have major environmental implications, especially after the fall of the Soviet Union. After the Soviets left Cuba, Cuban farming suffered a shortage of imported agricultural goods; leaving Cuban farmers to use traditional farming practices and some more modern techniques (such as rip irrigation) that are more environmentally friendly: The post-Soviet agricultural model is less dependent on imported agricultural practices that had been abandoned for their alleged backwardness: the large-scale use of beasts of burden, increased reliance on organic fertilizers and biological pest controls, the abandonment of marginal soils that had been brought under cultivation and made productive only by the intensive use of agricultural inputs, and a shift of urban labor to the countryside. [10] According to Diaz-Briquets and Perez-Lopez, more important than this change in agricultural practices, is that transferring the control of lands to farmers who are closely tied it, â€Å"and whose economic well-being will depend on the stewardship of the natural resource base, there is the expectation that the trend of soil deterioration†¦. may at least be slowed down†¦. [but] it is too early tell how successful the new agricultural policies will be. †[11] At this point, many of Cuba’s natural resources are in danger of extinction. Because Cuba has exported sugarcane as its main commodity, sugarcane has replaced natural flora and fauna. There was a time before 1959 when over 30 different kinds of bananas grew on the island, but most of the banana trees have been replaced by sugarcane. Cuba’s crops and animals have been affected by pests and diseases introduced from abroad; coastal pollution and excessive hunting also present severe threats to wildlife populations. [12] Water aquifers have been contaminated by pollutants (and saltwater on the coasts) and their levels are declining due to nearly unrestricted use. Similarly, waterflows reaching the coasts are also highly contaminated, which constantly hurts coral reefs and breeding grounds. Dam and reservoir construction has hurt coastal lagoons and mangroves: Cuba’s fresh water system (rivers/lakes/aquifers) has very serious problems. Under Castro’s policy of voluntad hidraulica, which called for not a single drop of fresh water to â€Å"be lost† to the ocean, the government has built over 1,000 large and small dams throughout the entire island, covering 1. 4% of Cuba’s territory. Although the benefits to Cuban agriculture are clear in terms of increased irrigated land (close to 1 million hectares), the ecological effect has been quite negative in terms of lowering the water’s oxygen level and increasing salinity. Dams have also blocked the dispersal of sediment and fresh water runoff over mangrove areas, contributing to a 30% average reduction of mangrove coverage and biodiversity loss[13] In fact, â€Å"the bays of Cuba are some of the most polluted in the world. Industrial, agricultural and human discharges into the sea, as well as deforestation for strip mining, have contributed to the pollution. [14] Water diversion to reservoirs is linked to the â€Å"virtual destruction of the oyster bed and major decline in the fish catch in the Casilda coastal region of southern Santa Clara Province. †[15] These factors, along with the excessive use of aquifer waters and wells used for sugar and citrus irrigation are contributing to the salinization of the water in Cuba. â€Å"Extensive water logging of coastal aquifers has lead to salinization and soil erosion. It has been estimated in 1991 that 600,000 ha have light to modest salinization levels, while the remainder show high levels of salinization. [16] The main source of water pollution lies in the industrial facilities, warehouses, and workshops and service entities located around the bay. Fifty-three industrial facilities are located in the immediate proximity of the bay, and another 84 industries produce waste that indirectly discharges into the bay through tributary streams. [17] These industrial areas include the port and the nickel industries that add to the contamination of the water supply. The port activity itself is also one of the major sources of contamination for the bay. It is estimated that the ships served in the port generate 150,000 tons of refuse per year. 18] Deforestation is also a factor contributing to the poor state of Cuba’s environment. Forests have not suffered nearly as much as the land, with conservation efforts bringing Cuba's forests back to their 1945 levels, but conservation of forests has not meant saving all woodlands. One of the main problems environmentalists have with deforestation in Cuba is the fact that many of the available estimates regarding how much of the original forest cover remained before the revolution are based on rough figures made by observers with no credible statistical information. According to Eudel Eduardo Cepero: The irrational use of forests has become common practice under the Castro regime. As no current data are available on the actual total area of cover forest, the value of Cuba’s forest resources is unknown. Most of the remaining natural forests are in poor condition from being overexploited. An average of 200 forest fires occur each year, affecting some 5,000 hectares of forest. Reforestation has been precarious, due to poor quality seeds, a low survival rate of plantings, and a narrow range of forest species utilized. 19] The National Environmental Strategy offers statistics to support Cepero’s claims by offering statistical information, but not listing sources to verify its facts; it also states that the forests in Cuba have grown over the last few years, but that there is still much work to be done with regards to improving the forest cover in Cuba: Although the forest cover has increased constantly in the recent years – in th e last 43 years increasing to a total coverage of 2, 696, 587. 9 hectares, bringing us to a forested index of 24. 54% in 2005 – after-effects still persist from years of irrational exploitation of Cuban forests which practically eradicated our most valuable woodland resources†¦. Problems persist with the quality of most native forests as a consequence of prior mismanagement and exploitation – particularly in the most important watersheds. Problems also exist in the nation’s seedbed sources, which do not meet productivity or quality expectations. In addition, a lack of updated forest management plans, insufficient silviculture of forested areas, and insufficiencies and deficiencies in management plans continue to present challenges[20] The EAN suggests that more work be done to investigate invasive plant species that re threatening the native plants. It says that the survival rate of tree plantations and the success rate of trees growing to full maturity have improved over the last few years, but that the numbers are still substantially low when compared to the anticipated numbers. Also, the range of forest species used in â€Å"forestry activities† has been inadequate. Also suffering from the effects of sovietization and the special period is the biological diversity of the island. â€Å"A substantial, unquantified loss of biodiversity exists, due, among other reasons, to improper management of certain ecosystems, the application of intensive farming, the marketing of endangered species, as well as conditions making it easy for important genetic resources to leave the countryâ€Å". 21] Coral reefs, mangroves, the original forest (which used to cover most of the island) and rainforests are ecosystems that are suffering in Cuba. According to the EAN, the leading causes of this loss of biodiversity are: [1] Changes, fragmentation, or destruction of habitat/ecosystems/landscapes due primarily to changes in land use and inadequate practices employed in fishing, harvest, and agricultural soil preparation, among others. Overexploitation of resources, for example fishing and forestry resources. [3] Degradation and contamination of soils, water, and the atmosphere. 4] Introduction of exotic invasive species that displace or affect the functioning of ecosystems and native species. [5]Insufficient regulatory and control mechanisms to prevent and punish illegal activities, including unlawful hunting and fishing, trade in threatened species and other natural resources. [6]Climate change and the resulting intensification of dry periods, the incidence of torrential rains, temperature increase, sea level rise, in addition to the intensity and frequency of extreme natural disasters such as hurricanes. [7] Forest fires. [22] The EAN lists the goals it wishes to achieve and the necessary steps that should be taken in order to achieve these goals. Among these goals are increasing the amount of forest coverage to 26. 7% of national territory; have one million hectares of forest maintained by the National System of Criterion and Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management; complete National Forestry Planning in 2007; reduce amount of lands affected by forest fires; 69% of forest cover used as a buffer to protect coastal areas, soils, water and conservation forests; management program for invasive plant species. 23] Before the Special Period much of the air pollution in Cuba was the result of its’ dependence on Soviet and Eastern European vehicles and factories that were contaminating the air: Urban pollution, could be partly traced to Cuba’s extreme reliance on inefficient and highly contaminating Soviet and Eastern European-built vehicles and factories. In the agricultural sector, a practice that resulted in much environmental damage was the promotion of Sovietstyle, large-scale state farm production model based on widespread mechanization, heavy chemical inputs (e. . , fertilizers and herbicides), and extensive irrigation[24] Air pollution in Cuba has increased significantly in the years since the Soviets left the island. â€Å" The absence of mitigation measures for emissions, inadequate control measures on the levels of noise generated by different activities, scarce information about the harmful effects on health and social behavior, the poor technical state of transport, and a lack of standards for emissions are also present. [25] There are few environmental reports available to the public that are based on analytical information that is collected systematically in the field and processed in laboratories. Cuban scientists state that: The two main sources of sulfuric gases within the city limits are the old thermal power plants of Tallapiedra in the Old Havana neighborhood and the Antonio Maceo plant in Regla, across the Bay of Havana. In both of these neighborhoods they recorded the highest level of environmental pollution, measuring up to 7. milligrams of sulfides per square decimeter per day at the Tallapiedra Power Plant†¦. Three secondary sources in the metallurgic, chemical and construction ind ustries were also associated with air pollution, all of them located in the environs of Havana Bay. [26] The Ministry of Public Health, better endowed for this purpose than other branches of government, has produced or published few precise documents dealing with health conditions and environmental degradation. Sulfur oxides, undesirable residues of combustion that are produced mostly in power plants when sulfur-rich fuels are burned, create respiratory problems and cause acid rain. Cuba replaced part of the vanished Soviet fuel imports of the late 1980s with domestic crude containing roughly six percent sulfur. It is used mostly in power plants and to run cement factories. [27] Diaz-Briquets and Perez-Lopez point out that the means of transportation in Cuba are getting old and, due to poor maintenance and inadequate resources to obtain parts, they are polluting and becoming harmful to the environment. Their conclusion is that â€Å"As long as the economic crisis continues, Cuba will not be able to modernize its fleet of cars, trucks, and buses (other than for those few vehicles serving the tourist industry)†. [28] If the Cuban government would allow media to spread environmental education to the citizens of Cuba and to the rest of the world, not only would it help efforts within Cuba to protect and improve the environment but it would also help efforts to improve the environment on a global level. The strategy points out that Article 27 of the Constitution of the Republic says: The state protects the nation’s environment and natural resources and recognizes their close relationship with sustainable economic and social development to make human life more rational and to ensure the survival, well being and security of present and future generations. It is the responsibility of proper governmental agencies to apply this policy. It is the duty of the citizens to contribute to the protection of the water, atmosphere, and the conservation of soil, wild flora and fauna and all the rich potential of nature. [29] Since Cuba has declared a national sovereignty over its natural resources and is actively working to restore and protect them, the state must also exercise rights over the country’s environment and resources. Similarly, Cuba must develop a national tendency towards â€Å"integrated natural resource management, commercial environmental management, and urban environmental management as fundamental traits of Cuban environmental management. †[30] The current embargo the United States has placed on Cuba keeps the island from growing economically. Which means that , since the economy is not changing or being stimulated, the people of Cuba are suffering. Meaning, because man poor, urban people cannot afford daily necessities, they resort to alternate ways to get everyday goods; even if it means depleting the natural resources. With the current government in Cuba and the restrictions caused by the embargo, it is hard to think that the Cuban environment will improve much in the next decade or two; but the National Environmental Strategy offers hope to the idea that Cuba’s environment will improve. The â€Å"National Environment Strategy 2007-2010† is dedicated to improving the environmental conditions of Cuba and finding a way to meet sustainable social and economic development goals. The eradication of extreme poverty is an achievement rooted in the very foundations of the revolutionary process. Achieving this is essential to the pursuit of environmental sustainability, first and foremost because extreme poverty cannot coexist with a healthy environment. The solution to this challenge is one of the principal achievements that Cuba can effectively show to the world. 31] The future of environmental reforms in Cuba will be influenced by a variety of cultural, economic, social, and political factors. Ultimate success or failure, however, will likely depend more on thorough laws, money, human capital, public involvement in environmental decision making, use of incentive-based tools, and international support. Strong environmental laws are a necessary foundation for sustaina ble development, but success will only occur with the continuing political will to implement and enforce them.

When International Buyers and Sellers Disagree Case Study - 1

When International Buyers and Sellers Disagree - Case Study Example The nature of this case is complex. This is because; the conflict involved in this case entails two different perspectives on the shipment of the livers, with both sides having the conviction that they are right in their argument. The American shipped pork livers to a German importer after ensuring that the shipment meets all the requisite standards of liver quality for an American. While the shipment is received by the German, he observes that the shipment consists of 40% of livers that do not meet his description. Consequently, he sought to let the American understand that in Germany, the livers not meeting such specifications can fetch a lower price, and thus needs to be compensated for the price reduction. On his side, the American believes that his shipment has met the required standards and therefore, cannot compensate for the loss incurred by the German (Cornell, 2001). This conflict call for arbitration. At this point, the grounds for ruling should emanate from the analysis of who breached the agreement, and then, he be required to take the responsibility. The fact that the German importer stated that the liver shipment should be of customary merchantable quality, does not indicate whether he explained the requirements for a customary merchantable quality of liver, in terms of sex of the animal from which the livers should be obtained (Frank, 2009). Since customary merchantable quality may refer to the conditions of the liver without entailing the description of the animal from which they were obtained, then the arbiter has two considerations to make. If the German had included the information to the effect that animal sex of the animal is a consideration to make in shipping the livers, then the American would have been on the wrong. On the other hand, having been told to provide customary merchantable quality livers to a foreign country, then the American had

Why testing is important in mobile application Literature review

Why testing is important in mobile application - Literature review Example The researcher asserts that mobile application testing is important in the creation of applications that are free of bugs. To highlight the specific importance of mobile application testing, the study has evaluated the importance of the kinds of mobile application testing. These types of testing as stated in the study include, installation, memory leakage, performance, laboratory, functional, interrupt, certification, and usability testing. According to the study, the installation testing helps verify the success of the installation procedure. Nimbalkar (2013) asserts that the problems that may arise when the application is using data are checked out during the laboratory testing. For the mobile application to be certified, its compliance has to be assessed, the certification testing helps in evaluating the compliance level. Nimbalkar (2013) notes that mobile phones are faced with certain varying conditions that may affect the performance of the application. As a result, performance testing aids in examining how well the application performs under these conditions. The conditions include low network coverage, battery, and

Assessment of Risk Management Perceptions and Practices of Dissertation

Assessment of Risk Management Perceptions and Practices of Construction Contractors - Dissertation Example 7 Methodology †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. 7 Ethical considerations †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. 10 Conclusion †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. 11 Introduction The construction industry is a source of risks and uncertainties. This is true in any country, especially in Saudi Arabia, which has experienced a construction boom these past three decades because of the vast oil revenues poured into government coffers. Risks account not only in physical terms, but also in abstract terms like financial and economic outcomes. Contractors devise plans to manage risks and to pre-empt problems and risks during and after construction. Managing risks involves taking care of the safety and security of the construction project or the finished building and the workers and em ployees therein. Risk management also involves analysing problems or surprises that will occur during and after project construction. Risks include environmental hazards caused by construction and demolition wastes, the health and safety of the workers, and risks associated with the design of the structure whether it can withstand natural disasters. Other risks include insurance and value for money or the business side of the construction project. Saudi Arabia has a long, hot summer, with a short, cool, winter season with very minimal rain. Some parts of Saudi Arabia have some of the extreme climatic conditions, which are most unfavorable for contractors to work with. This is very detrimental to the operations of any project, and could lead to loss of productivity on the part of the owners and contractors. Risk management should consider this aspect. (Shublaq, 1999, p. 277) Another aspect contractors have to include in risk management is the importation of laborers who are from othe r countries. Laborers have to adjust to the kind of unique culture Saudi Arabia has. Culture shock on the part of the laborers affects the kind of work they produce. Significance of the study This paper provides a brief assessment of how construction contractors in Saudi Arabia employ risk management perceptions and practices. The significance of the study brings to light the common practices of contractors in managing risks, and future problems and possible delays that may occur while construction is ongoing. The research will therefore seek to answer the following questions What risk management techniques are available to construction contractor in Saudi Arabia? What is the level of usage of these risk management techniques by the construction contractors? What is the importance of organizational risk management among construction companies in Saudi Arabia? What are the challenges faced be construction contractors in Saudi Arabia in using risk management techniques? Aim of the res earch The aim of this paper is to determine the extent to which risk management techniques are used construction contractors in Saudi Arabia and also determine the perception of construction professional to various construction risks. Objectives To identify risk management techniques used by contractors in Saudi Arabia To determine the level of usage of identified risk management techniques among Saudi construction companies To determine the importance of organizational risk management among Saudi construction companies To identify challenges faced by Saudi construction companies in using risk management techniques To recommend effective ways to limit the challenges identified in the

Physiology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

Physiology - Essay Example This pathway consists of A & A fibers characterised with high velocity (30 to 110 m/sec) of impulse conduction. The dorsal column-lemniscal pathway has also high degree of spatial orientation of the nerve fibres; particularly the medial fibers convey the information from the lower parts of the body while the lateral fibers related to higher segments. The spasticity in the muscles is related to the pyramidal insufficiency. This condition can occur if pyramidal pathways controlling voluntary movements are damaged by the mechanic or other agents. Intoxications, chronic neurodegenerative diseases, traumas, and metabolic disorders can play role in the origin of muscular spasticity. The attenuation reflex is important protective mechanism providing the best sound perception. The contraction of the stapes muscle protects the inner ear from damaging. The role of outer ear structures is important also - they can reduce resonance in the middle ear. Summation is a process of gradual release of the transmitter and the transmission of the impulse from several presynaptic neurones to one postsynaptic neurone (spatial summation) or from only one presynaptic and one postsynaptic neurone (temporal summation). The summation leads to the release of sufficient the impulse is transmitted across the synaptic cleft. The pain control system of CNS is represented by three major components: the periaqueductal grey and the nucleus raphe magnus (in the brain) and the pain inhibitory neurons of the dorsal horns in medulla spinalis. The opioid receptors of these structures are activated by endorphins or exogenous opiates and block the spreading of pain impulses. 3.3 Why is it difficult to localize slow, chronic pain (2) Chronic pain usually irradiate to other areas thus its localisation could be difficult. Furthermore, the efferent pain stimuli are conducted to CNS

Reflective Report- Oticon the disorganised organisation Assignment

Reflective Report- Oticon the disorganised organisation - Assignment Example This research enabled Oticon to keep up with the pace of technology, as well as recognize customer’s demands and make the correct adjustments where required (Perlitz 2007, p.26). This case study is about Oticon that is undergoing or has undergone a change between the years 2010 and 2014. In addition, the essay will provide the description of the organization and industry in which the change happened, and the particular information. Moreover, it will give the environmental elements that impacted the change and chronology of the milestones. Furthermore, nine more reflections on the analyses associated to the topic of the week will be noted. The reflection will be based on Kolb Model of Learning. The Kolb’s cycle is the procedure that expands ideas from the way of encounter. In most situations, the procedure is comprehended on the basis of the events. In this model, there is a circle of reflective observation that evolves to solid encounter of occurrences in abstract conceptualization (Moon 2013, p. 24). The figure below represents the Kolb’s cycle of learning. This case study’s information is obtained from the annual records of the Oticon company and personal conversation with Lars Kolind the initiator of spaghetti organization between the year 2010 and 2011 (Cattani 2011, p.68). Oticon is a Danish corporation that began in 1904 and specializes in behind the ear hearing aid devices. The project-based organization (PBO) change happened in the company in a big way. A project based organization process plays the function of reacting to the unknown environmental factors. The Oticon Company indicated this form of organization change through spaghetti organization (Cattani 2011, p.61).The spaghetti organization assisted the company to manage it in a particular time of industry unstableness. In addition, it assisted the managers in their quest for a better framework to arrange innovation inside the corporation. The spaghetti organization got tests on two

Maths and Excel exercise Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Maths and Excel exercise - Essay Example The horizontal dotted line indicates that the blue curve and the green curve have the same maximum. The vertical dotted lines indicate the maxima for the three curves, respectively. g) The weight of the heads of household appears to be normally distributed. Wages however are extremely skewed, resulting in many households with low wages and a few with high wages. The education level is a symmetric, discrete distribution, with both highly educated and less educated heads of households being rare. Since weight is the only symmetric distributed variable in the table, only in its case are the sample mean and median close to each other. Another indication that weight is indeed normally distributed is the proximity of the actual percentages of weights falling within the three given intervals to the empirical percentages. This is because the empirical percentages are calculated assuming normality of the data. An interesting observation is that the size of the 95% confidence interval for clothing and recreational expenses is actually much higher than that of more basic expenses such as food and housing. It is also interesting to note that clothing and recreational expen ses are more tightly correlated with net income than food and household expense are, as indicated by the marginally higher correlation coefficient of TOTEXP2 with FINC than TOTEXP1 with FINC. ... TOTEXP2 10.82 109.38 Note: 95% Confidence Interval has been calculated for the left tail, since all 3 variables show skewed distributions. e) Correlation coefficient r = 0.9927 Correlation coefficient r = 0.9979 f) The regression equation for TOTEXP1 Vs FINC is y = .59x + 1.5, while the regression equation for TOTEXP2 Vs FINC is y = .16x + .088 g) The weight of the heads of household appears to be normally distributed. Wages however are extremely skewed, resulting in many households with low wages and a few with high wages. The education level is a symmetric, discrete distribution, with both highly educated and less educated heads of households being rare. Since weight is the only symmetric distributed variable in the table, only in its case are the sample mean and median close to each other. Another indication that weight is indeed normally distributed is the proximity of the actual percentages of weights falling within the three given intervals to the empirical percentages. This is because the empirical percentages are calculated assuming normality of the data. An interesting observation is that the size of the 95% confidence interval for clothing and recreational expenses is actually much higher than that of more basic expenses such as food and housing. It is also interesting to note that clothing and recreational expens es are more tightly correlated with net income than food and household expense are, as indicated by the marginally higher correlation coefficient of TOTEXP2 with FINC than TOTEXP1 with FINC. One possible interpretation is that spending on less basic needs is more constrained by income than spending on more basic needs

Sino-Japanese relations Essay Example for Free

Sino-Japanese relations Essay Sino-Japanese relations are destined to have a profound impact on Southeast Asia. After all, as noted by Stephen Leong, For Asia to be secure, Japan and China have to be getting along† Otherwise the security architecture of Asia will change. China, Japan and the US may not enjoy the most comfortable of partnerships, considering each nation’s competitive streak and occasional differences over trade, global governance and security issues. But the partnership works and is improving, with the potential for resolving many regional and global problems, explains Morton Abramowitz, former US ambassador and senior fellow at the Century Foundation. In analyzing major issues confronting the three nations, Abramowitz also offers specific recommendations: Japan and the US should refrain from forming â€Å"values† alliances against China; China should end opposition to a seat on the UN Security Council for Japan; and East Asia should form more consultative forums for planning and integration. Ongoing integration and consultation can only improve the relationship, according to Abramowitz, creating a multilateral policymaking model for the century ahead. China grows rapidly, deriving significant clout and thereby assuming a new world role. Despite a recent leadership transition, Chinese leaders remain preoccupied with mitigating massive distortions of growth, ensuring a successful Olympics and preventing regime change. Its military modernization arouses American. Yet China continues to be out of step with the political morality of leading countries. China has a long way to go in exercising international leadership. Japan is a major world economic player, but wants to be a â€Å"normal† nation without its postwar defense limitations. It remains fearful of China’s competition, even as both economies become more entwined. Japan and China have one major concrete dispute – maritime claims. The US and Japan each value their alliance, influence in Southeast Asia –but the absence of which was clear when most East seat. In recent years, China has increased its assertiveness in pursuing territorial claims in the South China Sea. This development can most likely be traced to Chinas need to find sources of oil since China switched from being an oil-exporting nation to an oil-importing nation a few years ago. While Southeast Asian nations have essentially agreed to disagree by postponing resolution of their territorial disputes, China continues to insist on its rights to drill for oil on these islands. These actions exemplify the need to establish a multilateral resource development regime whose prerequisite for admission could be the resolution of territorial disputes. . 6Devout Muslims, particularly in Indonesia and the Philippines, saw themselves marginalized by secular (Indonesian) or Christian (Filipino) governments. This produced a sense of victimization that meshed with the message from Osama bin Laden and others. Money from the Persian Gulf (particularly Saudi Arabia) has flowed into Southeast Asia, propagating a strict, doctrinaire version of Islam through schools and mosques. Mujahideen were indoctrinated into a militant jihadist returned to Southeast Asia ripe for recruitment into local terrorist organizations dedicated to the destruction of non- Muslim communities, Western influence, and secular governments. There are three types of international terrorist groups- al Qaeda, Jemaah Islamiyah (JI), whose agenda includes attacks on U. S. interests and the establishment of a pan-Islamic caliphate; and traditional Muslim separatists, such as the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) in the southern Philippines and the Pattani National Liberation Front in southern Thailand, that seek a separate Muslim state. One of the questions affecting the security future of Southeast Asia is whether the predominantly Muslim societies in the region can find a way to neutralize and absorb the militants into a moderate body politic. The picture is greatly complicated by linkages between groups including JI and al Qaeda, between Abu Sayyaf and al Qaeda, and between JI and the MILF. Further complications arise from alleged links between elements of the Indonesian 8 military and Laskar Jihad and another similar group, the Islamic Defenders Front. In short, terrorism in Southeast Asia would depict interactive networks with multiple agendas. The October 2002 bombings in Bali forced Jakarta to acknowledge the reality.

A Study Of Interest Group Lobbying Politics Essay

A Study Of Interest Group Lobbying Politics Essay The introduction of organized interests is nothing new in American politics. Political scientists, politicians, and scholars alike all agree that interest groups are natural phenomena in a democratic regime. Political interests have played a central role in American politics since James Madison first warned the framers of factionalism. Since then, the last five decades have seen an alarming rise of interest groups, changing fundamentally accounting the ongoing transformation of American politics and the pressures of campaign reform. Modern parties as well as established interest groups have demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability. The 20th century saw an increase in penetration of political and economic interests in the legislative, executive and judicial branches of government, leading to the growth of political activity that have opened doors while closing others. With these changes, interest groups have adjusted their strategy and tactics to adapt to the opportunities and constraints among the decision-making arenas. In line with these changes in American politics, it has revolutionized the representation and success of social movements. With the continuing need for more representation, politicians have come to recognize the impact groups can have when they mobilize support. Though they have impacted American politics in various ways, it is important to understand the methods they have used accounting the changing political environment. These strategies however, are not limited to one particular decision-making arena, but are the most commonly used. Interest groups are involved in American Politics in various ways. This especially is true within the judicial processes. When it comes to strategies used by interest groups, testifying before the Senate Judiciary Committee has become the most formal strategy pursued by interest group representatives. This process provides opportunity for interest groups to express their opinions directly to the people who have the power to accept or reject a nominee. While the former has been the most popular tactic for groups, it requires a high level of national prestige to acquire an invitation to this committee. In the case of Roberts and Alito nominations, the absence of interest group participation did not reflect their unwillingness to testify. Instead, their influence was mitigated by the committees refusal to allow interest group participation. While the former method has been one of the most effective ways to be represented, it requires prestigious interest groups which often require abund ant human and financial capital. Position taking on the other hand, is a low-cost alternative tactic used to support a judicial nominee. These actions serve to mobilize members and help generate contributions. Advertisements, on the other hand, have been the most common tool used in all decision-making arenas. As a result, interest groups have used television, radio, and billboards to support or oppose a judicial nominees. The growth in communication technologies has increased the number of strategic opportunities for interest groups. In fact, during the Bush administration, nearly all ads for or against Bush nominees were aired on cable new programs, which appealed to audiences who are more likely to be engaged in political affairs. Interests groups are also likely to also participate in mass mailings containing nominee information to fundraising support. More recently however, with the ongoing changes and development of technology, interest groups have begun using technology as a tool in electoral campaigns. Technological advancements have complemented traditional strategies. Websites, e-mails, and blogs, have become a cheap and effective approach over the last decade. When it comes to Interest group influence in elections such as the presidency, parties and candidates must have enough money to communicate and mobilize properly. Candidates seeking funds have found organized interests willing to contribute to those who share their political view. Interest groups involved in campaign contribution have seen the most constraints. Fortunately, federal campaign finance laws have been largely ineffective in limiting the role of special-interest money. Following the federal regulations after 1971, the Federal Elections Commission (FEC) has administered and enforced numerous federal campaign laws. By setting hard money contribution limits, it subsequently led to the rise of political action committees. Since hard money was defined as money contributed directly to a candidate of a political party (Loomis, 285), it was opportunity for interest groups to donate unregulated (soft) money to the political party as a whole. Subsequently, the Bipartisan Campaign Re form Act in 2002, prohibited unregulated contributions to national party committees. With the ongoing constraints by the FEC, PACs have become vey creative in allocating their resources. One strategy they have used is bundling, when PACs collect checks made out to a particular candidate and then send each candidate the checks all at once (Loomis, 191). Morgan Stanley, for example, bundled nearly $600,000 to the reelection campaign for Bush. In addition, PACs have also funneled money by giving contributions to other PACs or organizations that support their interests. 527 groups which refer to the groups that are not regulated by the FEC found various methods for advocating issues. As a right to free speech, groups were allowed to spent unlimited amount of independent money. They are able to do this by avoiding the use of specific words that include: vote for, elect, support, oppose. As special interest seek to influence government policy and members of Congress, two main strategies are commonly used; electoral and access. Most elected officials want to be reelected therefore they listen to people who can help or hinder that reelection. Interest groups take advantage of this situation by rallying voters to their cause and contributing money to reelection campaigns. Most interest groups cannot legally encourage their members to vote for or against a particular candidate, but they can achieve the same effect by informing their members of candidates stances on issues. For example, for years the Christian Coalition have issued voter pamphlets which describe the candidates positions on issues that are particularly important to group members, such as abortion. Other groups play the ratings game by publishing the positions of all members of Congress on key issues with the hope of swaying voters. Unfortunately, Electoral strategies are highly ambitious and risky which ca n often backfire in future elections. Access strategies however, are known as risk-averse strategies. These are techniques in which interest groups work to get access to directly influence an official. Unfortunately, given how busy members of Congress and other government officials often are, getting access pose major challenges. Sometimes a lobbyist can only get a few minutes of the officials time, so the lobbyist must be prepared to make a pitch very quickly. Some types of people have an easier time getting access than others. Some lobbying organizations use these types of people to help gain access. Actor Michael J. Fox, for example, has lobbied for increased funding for Parkinsons disease research. Both Angelina Jolie and Bono have also successfully lobbied Congress for their causes. When looking at social movements in the 21st century, one of the most successful has been the contemporary environmental movement. While interest groups have had more success in American decision-making institutions in the past, social movements have utilized similar tools to get their voices heard. Through coalitions with interest groups, private funding, technological advancements, the environmental movement has become a formidable force in American politics.

Evidence Based Practice in Nursing Essay

Evidence Based Practice in Nursing Essay Introduction Evidence based practice is a complex experience that requires synthesizing study findings to establish the best research evidence and correlate ideas to form a body of empirical knowledge (Burns Grove 2007). There are many definitions but the most commonly used is Sackett et al (1996). Sackett et al (1996) as cited in Pearson, Field, Jordon, (2007) describes evidence based practice: â€Å"the conscientious, explicit and judicious use of current best available evidence in making decisions about the care of individual patients. The practice of evidence based medicine means integrating individual clinical experience with the best available external evidence from systematic research†. (Sackett et al 1996 page 5). The author will discuss the importance of evidence for practice, different types and levels of evidence. The research process, dissemination of evidence, barriers and will conduct a critique of two research articles. The importance of evidence based practice is to enable nurses to provide high quality care, improve outcomes for patient and families and to run a more efficient health service. Therefore other agencies within the health service will benefit when interventions and care is based on research (Burns Grove 2007). According to the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) code nurses are accountable to society to provide a high quality of care so therefore it is important that nurses reflect, evaluate the care and keep abreast of new knowledge and evidence that is available (Burns Grove 2007). Providing a streamlined service, which is cost effective and based on current evidence based practice has shown to reduce cost but also to enhances the quality of care the patient receives (Melnyk et al2010). Working in partnership with the nurse the patient is able to participate in decisions about their care. This is not only beneficial for the patient but also increases the satisfaction of the nurse treating the patient (Craig Smyth 2007). Furthermore Craig Smyth (2007) suggests evidence based practice is a problem-solving approach to the delivery of health care. In using a problem solving approach the nurse is able to integrate clinician expertise and patient preferences to provide individualized care suitable for the patient. To acquire knowledge in the past, nurses have relied on decisions based on trail or error, personal experience, tradition and ritual. Parahoo (2006) suggests learning by tradition and ritual are important means of transferring knowledge, for example learning the ward routine. According to Brooker and Waugh (2007) Students learn from effective colleagues who practice safety and on the basis of best evidence. However, a disadvantage of this method of learning may lead to transmission of invalid information and may put the patient and nurse at risk (Brooker Waugh 2007). According to Burns and Grove (2007) to generate knowledge a variety of research methods are needed. The two different research methods are quantitative and qualitative. According to Burns and Grove (2007) quantitative research is an objective formal systematic process and demonstrates its findings in numerical data. According Munhall (2001) qualitative research is gathering information to describe life experiences throu gh a systematic and subjective approach and does not use figures or statistics to produce findings. In nursing practice the quantitative approach has been considered to provide stronger evidence than qualitative (Pearson, Field, Jordon, 2007). Pearson, Field, Jordon (2007) suggest health professionals and servicer users require a variety of information to facilitate change and to include evidence not only of effectiveness but feasibility, appropriateness and meaningfulness to achieve evidence based health care practice. Evidence based practice promotes the application of research evidence as a basis on which to make health care decisions so it is important to search for the truth and knowledge logically. Robust research which may draw on expertise and experience represent a higher level of evidence because of the discipline involved (Burns Grove 2007). There are thirteen steps in the quantitative research process and one step gradually builds on another (Burns Grove2007). The beginning of the research process starts with a problem which usually highlights a gap in knowledge (Melnyk Fine-Overholt 2005). The next step is the purpose of the research. This is produced from the problem and identifies the aim of the study (Burns Grove2007). To build a picture up of what is known or not known about the problem a literature review is conducted. This will provide current theoretical and scientific knowledge about the problem and highlight gaps in the knowledge base (Burns Grove 2007). This is followed by the study framework and research objectives, questions and hypotheses. This continues to the end till all the steps are covered. The final step is the research outcome. Hierarchy of evidence is generated from the quality of information from different evidence. Practitioners are able to use the hierarchy of evidence to inform them on which information is most likely to have the maximum impact on clinical decisions (Leach 2006). Leach (2006) suggests hierarchy of evidence may be used to discover research findings that supersede and invalidate earlier accepted treatments and change them with interventions that are safer, efficient and cost-effective. If findings from a controlled trial are inadequate, choices should be guided by the next best available evidence (Leach 2006). According to Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN 2009) the revised grading system is planned to place greater weight on the quality of the evidence supporting each recommendation, and to highlight that the body of evidence should be considered as a whole, and not rely on a single study to support each recommendation. The grading system currently in use with the SIGN guidelines starts with 1++ and ends in 4. For the evidence to be rated at 1++ it must include a high quality meta-analyses, systematic reviews of random controlled trails (RCT) or RCT with a low risk of bias. Level 4 is based on expert opinion (SIGN 2009). There are many barriers to implementing evidence based practice. One of the common barriers is staff information and skill deficit. Health professionals lack of knowledge in regarding results of clinical research or current recommendations may not have the sufficient technical training skill or expertise to implement change (Pearson, Field, Jordon 2007). Nurses have also highlighted lack of time as a barrier in applying research to practice. As the number of patients increases nurses face the challenge of providing safe, high-quality care within a short time frame. Nurse educators and researchers have developed a â€Å"toolkit† to ease the implementation of evidence based practice into nursing (Smith, Donez Maghiaro 2007). According to Gerrish and Lacey (2006) dissemination is a process of informing people about the results of a particular research. There are many ways to present results, video, seminars and the most accepted is through professional journals. However with the internet being more assessable the researcher is able to post details on the website hosted by NHS trust or university. One disadvantage in using the internet is that it provides no guarantee of quality (Gerrish Lacey 2006). SIGN guidelines are circulated free of charge throughout Nation Health Service (NHS) Scotland. For this to happen they must be made widely available as soon as possible to facilitate implementation. Furthermore guidelines on their own have proved ineffective and more likely if they are disseminated by active educational intervention and implemented by patient-specific reminders relating directly to professional activity (SIGN 2009). Critique 1 Rydstrom I, Dalheim-Englund A, Holritz-Rasmussen B, Moller C, Sandman P-O (2005). Asthma quality of life for Swedish children.Journal of Clinical Nursing 14, 739-749. Blackwell Publishing Ltd. As the title suggests this was a research to find out how Swedish children with asthma experience their quality of life and to look for potential links between their experience of quality of life and some determinants. This study was accomplished by using a quantitative research approach which adhered to the aims and objectives. Quantitative research is formal, objective, systematic inquiry that involves numerical data (Burns Grove 2007). The two stages used in the quantitative research were correlation and quasi-experimental (Burns Grove 2007). This is an acceptable method to use as the study was trying to explore the relationship between two variables and the findings were produced in a numerical format. In previous literature it was noted investigations in children with asthma around the world all had similar experiences (Rydstrom et al2005).It also highlighted that girls and boys perceived asthma in a different way and girls were more likely to include asthma in their social and personal identities where boys would exclude the condition (Williams 2000). The researchers wanted to ask the children how they experience their life living with asthma. Also to look at possible links between childrens quality of life and determinants such as age, sex, pets, siblings, location and social status (Rydstrom et.al. 2005). Some common types of sampling used in quantitative research are random and non-random samples (Burns and Grove 2007). In the article for the purpose of this study all hospitals and clinics were used and fifteen were chosen randomly for the study (Rydstrom et al2005). Both children and parents were asked to participate in the study but children had to meet the inclusion criteria before being selected (Rydstrom et al2005). By using a random sample the general population becomes representative of the larger whole (Parahoo 2006). Validity was established by cross-matching Paediatric Asthma Quality of life Questionnaire (PAQLQ) with About my Asthma (AMA), by Mishoe et.al.(1998). Warschburger (1998) recommended that PAQLQ was a reliable instrument and Reichenberg Brogerg (2000) found that there was no difference concerning reliability between the Swedish and the original PAQLQ. The study was approved by The Ethics Committee at the Medical Faculty of Umea University in Sweden and consent was received from parents and children. Burns and Grove (2007) define sampling as a process of selecting groups of people who are representative of the population. Data was collected through self administration questionnaires. There advantages and disadvantages in using questionnaires. Advantage firstly, the data is gathered is standardised and therefore easy to analyse. Secondly, respondents can answer anonymously which may produce more honest answers. A disadvantage is the responses may be inaccurate especially through misinterpretation of questions in self completing questionnaires. (Gerrish Lacey 2006). Children age seven to seventeen were required to fill in Paediatric Asthma Quality of life Questionnaire (PAQLQ) which was used to measure the childrens quality of life in different domains. Parents were required to fill in Paediatric Asthma Caregivers Quality of life Questionnaire (PACQLQ) (Rydstrom et al2005). Children and parents filled in questionnaires separately and a nurse was on hand to help children who could not manage on their own. The researchers clearly identify what statistical tests were undertaken. However the results are presented in a complex manner. The results showed the majority of children estimated their quality of life at the positive end of the scale. Children reported impairment in the domain of activities than emotions and symptoms for example not being able to run around. Living in the south of Sweden and being a boy were reported to have a better quality of life. Furthermore children living with a Mum over forty or with cohabiting parents had a better quality of life (Rydstrom et al2005). The researchers brought to the attention of the reader the laminations within the study. Children view friends and their social environment being important to them however there were no questions relating to this and also it did not take into consideration the childs stage of development (Rydstrom et al2005). Also the research was done within a week, therefore would the results be different if it was done over a longer period. This was not a controlled research so there is a possibility that some data may be missing as nobody was checking to see if the children had filled in all the questions. The findings highlight it is important for the nurse to look at all aspects of the child development. Furthermore caring tends to focus on the patients limitations, another important issue for nurses is to try to discover those aspects in a childs daily life that contribute to a high QoL in order to improve and maintain the childs wellbeing. Critique 2 Lyte, Milnes, Keating Finke 2007. Review management for children with asthma in primary care: a qualitative case study.Journal of Nursing and Healthcare of Chronic Illness in association with Journal of Clinical Nursing 16, 7b, pp123-132 As the title suggests this research article will focus on review management for children with asthma within a primary care setting. This study was accomplished by using a qualitative case study design. In using a qualitative case study design it can provide much more comprehensive information than what is available through other methods, such as surveys (Neale, Thapa Boyce 2006). Neale, Thapa Boyce (2006) suggest case studies also allow one to present data collected from multiple methods (i.e., surveys, interviews, document review, and observation) to provide the complete story. Qualitative research is systematic, subjective approach (Burns Grove 2007) which describes life experiences, meanings, practices and views of those involved (Craig Smyth 2007). In the UK one in eight children suffers from the effects of asthma and the majority of cases are now being managed in the primary care setting (National Asthma Campaign 2001). With improvement in management of asthma over the years there is still a high level of morbidity and mortality (Lyte et al2005). Out of Sight, Out of Mind (Asthma UK 2005) agrees with Lyte et al(2005) that death rates are high. In Scotland the death rates due to asthma vary each year. Furthermore inquires have shown at least 90% of those deaths could have been avoided. However child admissions to hospital due to asthma have fallen slightly (Out of Sight, Out of Mind Asthma UK 2005). Furthermore it was highlighted through a systematic review of literature published at the time of research that it was unknown whether primary care based asthma clinics were effective. Additionally it concluded that patients views on asthma clinics were also unknown (Fay et al2003). One cannot ignore the fact that there are evident gaps in generic knowledge of primary care asthma services for children in the UK (Lyte et al2005). Therefore the aim of the study is to investigate current review management of childrens asthma in one primary care trust and to consider the views of children, their parents/carers and the role of the practice nurse in asthma care in one primary care trust (Lyte et al2005). For the purpose of this research Lyte et al(2005) used purposive sampling to gather information. Craig Smyth (2007) suggests there are various methods can be applied to data collection. Lyte et al(2005) used interviews, observations and reviews of available documentation regarding asthma (Artefactual). In using this type of sampling the researchers can be specific on the groups they wanted to target. However they may be an element of bias as the practice nurse selected the parents and children for this research. To strengthen the research the researchers used triangulated methods for data collection. According to Craig Smyth (2007) the theory behind triangulation if multiple sources, methods, investigators or theories provide similar findings their creditability is strengthened. The study was approved by the Local Research Ethics Committee and the Universitys Senate Ethics Committee. Throughout the research during the data collection consent was treated as an ongoing process. However there was difficulty in communicating with children. To solve this problem, when meeting with the children the researchers would go through the informed consent and voluntary participation again. Confidentially of all participants were protected and guaranteed by the Data Protection Act. Children expressed a wish to participate and share information in the research (Lyte et al 2005). However some children felt through the research of not being involved. Lyte et al (2005) suggested it is the childs personality that determines how much response the practice nurse receives. It is often said good communication in nursing is crucial and is the foundation of building trust and encourages children to seek advice. It is important to communicate with children appropriately to match the stage of development (The Common Core of Skills Knowledge 2010). Ultimately effective communication allows for the exchange of information, needs and preferences of the patient between herself and the patient (The Common Core of Skills Knowledge 2010). However Hobbs (1995) suggests that some practice nurses may not have the training in regarding complexities of caring for children and their families. One cannot deny that it is important for practitioners to have the appropriate training (Alde rson 2000) because children have equal rights to contribute to their care as well as adults (Save the Children 1997). It was noted that children did not have sufficient knowledge about asthma. Furthermore parents and children highlighted that there was insufficient information on asthma in the primary care setting. For children and adults to make informed choices regarding their asthma they require having up to date information to help them in making decisions. Equally in one practice it was identify that the practice nurse lack confidence in caring for children with asthma and Hobbs (1995) confirms this lack of confidence and points out that practice nurses deal with arrange of illnesses. Parents and children in the study both agreed that one area for improvement was the waiting room (Lyte 2005). Some children may find going to the doctor a very frightening experience. The first expression needs to be reassuring and non-threatening. (Making Your Waiting Room Kid-Friendly 2006). The waiting room should be child friendly and also have books, television/video for older children. With todays technology many children use computers in the classroom. Some computer programs are touch-screen driven, making them friendly to all levels. Providing a computer in the waiting room may be ideal opportunity to encourage children to show off their technical skills by accessing the computer for health-related information (Making Your Waiting Room Kid-Friendly 2006). It might be concluded from this research the strengths outweigh the weaknesses, despite the research being conducted in one primary care trust. The most satisfactory conclusion that can come from this, to facilitate children and parents a comprehensive package of care needs to be put in place in order to manage their asthma effectively. References Burns N, Grove S, (2007). Understand Nursing Research, Building an Evidence-BasedPractice. Fourth Ed Craig J V, Smyth R L (eds). (2007). The Evidence-Based Practice Manual for Nurses. China: Churchhill Livingstone Elsevier. Leach M J (2006). Evidence -based practice: A framework for clinical practice and research design. International Journal of Nursing Practice. 12, pp 248-251 Lyte, Milnes, Keating Finke 2007. Review management for children with asthma in primary care: a qualitative case study.Journal of Nursing and Healthcare of Chronic Illness in association with Journal of Clinical Nursing 16, 7b, pp123-132 Melnyk, Mazurek , Fineout-Overholt, Ellen, Stillwell, Susan, Williamson, (2010). Evidence-Based Practice: Step by Step: The Seven Steps of Evidence-Based Practice. AJN, American Journal of Nursing: January 2010 Volume 110 Issue 1 pp 51-53 Mishoe SC, Baker RR, Poole S, Harrell LM, Arrant CB Rupp NT (1998). Development of an instrument to assess stress levels and quality of life in children with asthma.Journal of Asthma 35, 553-563. Munhal (2001) cited in Burns N, Grove S, (2007). Understand Nursing Research, Building an Evidence-BasedPractice. Fourth Ed Questionnaires a brief introduction [online]. (2006) [Accessed 15th March]. Available from: . Reichenberg K Broberg AG (2000) Quality of life in childhood asthma: use of the paediatric Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire in a Swedish sample of children 7-9 yearsold. Acta Paediatrica 89, 989-995. Roberts P et al(2006). Reliability and Validity in research. Nursing Standard. 20,44, 41-45 Rydstrom I, Dalheim-Englund A, Holritz-Rasmussen B, Moller C, Sandman P, (2004). Asthma quality of life for Swedish children. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 14, pp739-749. Sackett et al (1996) pp 5 cited in Pearson A, Field J, Jordan Z (eds). (2007). Evidence-Based Clinical Practice in Nursing and Health Care. Singapore: Blackwell Publishing. Williams (2000) cited in Rydstrom I, Dalheim-Englund A, Holritz-Rasmussen B, Moller C, Sandman P, (2004). Asthma quality of life for Swedish children. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 14, pp739-749. Warschburger P (1998) Measuring the quality of life of children and adolescents with asthma The pediatric asthma quality of life questionnaire.Rehabilitation 37, XVII-XXIII.

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As-salamu Alaikum to the Reader Bismillah Hir Raá ¸ ¥man Ir Raá ¸ ¥im†¦ Without an advocate for the poor, without a new state of mind in America, the country lies on the brink of anarchy. - Louis Farrakhan Economic independence for our people is the primary goal of the Nation of Islam. The Most Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan’s Economic Blueprint is a catalyst for the changes needed in our Nation so that economic independence can stop being a distant, future goal. If our people do not collectively amass our resources as in the time of Noah, we will be washed over with the debt and burden of our discrepancies and disbelief. The ECONOMIC Blueprint will aid in eradicating the mental, physical, and spiritual chains that come with economic dependency on a people that work to marginalize and oppress you. The knowledge of a blueprint for economic independence however, can only benefit a nation that implements their knowledge. The Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad says, â€Å"Mere belief accounts for nothing unless carried into practice.† Although, knowledge is powerful it can only work to the peoples b...