Types of insurance and performance measurement of insurance companies Essays

Types of insurance and performance measurement of insurance companies Essays Types of insurance and performance measurement of insurance companies Essay Types of insurance and performance measurement of insurance companies Essay Chapter 3: LITERATURE REVIEW Insurance concern involves a batch of hazard because it provides screen against future uncertainness that clients will confront either in their ordinary life or in the class of making concern. Insurance services vary with the types of hazard against which a client wishes or intends to see. This chapter is a reappraisal of literature concentrating on the types of insurance and public presentation measuring of insurance companies. The remainder of this chapter is organized as follows. Section one is about categorization of insurance. Section two discusses the public presentation of insurance companies based on grounds on extant literature. Section three briefly discusses the impact of corporate administration on insurance companies’ public presentation. Section four reports the research spread. 3.1 Insurance Categorization Insurance can be grouped into three chief classs viz: ( 1 ) Life Assurance, ( 2 ) General Insurance and ( 3 ) Re-Insurance ( Financial Stability Forum, 2000 ) . Life Assurance Life confidence purposes to counterbalance the insured beneficiaries’ in the event of his/her decease. Unlike general insurance, life confidence is different ( Brockettet Al., 1994 ) . The fund to counterbalance life confidence client is generated from the premium contributed by the insured. Because mortality rate is comparatively low in many states ( both developed and emerging ) unanticipated eventuality as loss of life is besides comparatively low. In this vena Carson ( 2000 ) contends that life confidence companies are financially stable and that could be seen from their fiscal studies. The growing of industry at all degrees ( runing from primary, secondary to third ) has entailed the demands for new insurance services under the umbrella of life confidence. For case Gracia ( 2001 ) suggests that industrialisation has called for the demands for employee pension fund, cash-back life confidence policy and life confidence with place loans installations. In developed economic systems there are newer merchandises in footings of investings which possible life insured can put. General Insurance General insurance covers all insurances other than life confidence ( Meador et al, 2000 ) . Because of the assorted merchandises that general insurance offers and the chance of the hazard is unsure, risk-taking is higher ( Mansor and Radam, 2000 ) . Recent concern development in emerging economic systems like India, China, Brazil and Russia has significantly driven the general insurance market. Yao et Al ( 2007 ) contends that China has recorded an one-year addition of about 25 per centum in general insurance over the last decennary. Re-insurance Existing literature provides different definitions of re-insurance and re-insurers. This is because of its complex characteristics ( Cole and McCullough, 2008 ) . In a nutshell, reinsurance is the insurance for insurance companies. It provides an insurance screen to the insurance companies which have undertaken a legal contract to see clients for life or general intent insurance. Reinsurance may be regarded as the intensive attention unit of the insurance companies. By buying reinsurance, the insurance companies have taken protection against immense losingss that could lure to bankruptcy. It is compulsory for all insurance concern across the Earth to buy re-insurance policy. 3.2 Performance Measurement Extant literature in accounting and finance has chiefly used the fiscal studies to measure public presentation of any concern organisation in any sector including the insurance sector. Some have used the conventional ratio analysis attack whereas others have tended to sophisticate their attack by utilizing a set of selective indexs which they argue pertain to a specific sector. For case the CARAMELS theoretical account which is besides used by the World Bank to find public presentation of houses in the non-banking fiscal services sector. CARAMELS comprise of a series of ratios computed from the fiscal studies to measure public presentation. Both faculty members and practicians argue that fiscal studies are the most appropriate and relevant beginning of informations to measure public presentation of a house ( Nguyen, 2004 ) because they are prepared harmonizing to proper accounting criterions every bit good as audited in conformity with relevant auditing criterions ( Boolaky, 2012 ; B oolaky, et Al, 2013 ) . Ratio Analysis Conventional fiscal ratios are used to mensurate the underwriting public presentation of insurance companies. Harmonizing to Angoff ( 2005 ) the loss ratio represents the pure cost of insurance coverage as opposed to the disbursal ratio which is the non-claims-related activities of the insurance company. The amount of these two ratios the combined ratio therefore reports the effectivity and efficiency of underwriting operations ( Bergeret Al., 1992, Cummins and Danzon, 1997, and Hoyt and Powel, 2005 ) . Ratio analysis is a fiscal analysis tool to dissect a fiscal study in instance one needs to cognize how good or bad a company is making. They provide utile indexs for determination devising ( Watsonet al. ,2002 ) . Management uses ratios to measure public presentation in each map of the company whereas analysts use them to make up ones mind on their pick of investing. Regulators use ratio analysis as one of their supervisory tools. Ratios provide signals about hazard degree in the company. Using ratios it is possible to find public presentation during both good and bad old ages. Frequently analysts use a set of ratios when carry oning clip series public presentation analysis of companies ( Worrell, 2004 ) . Hirao and Inoue ( 2004 ) uses cost ratio to measure efficiency and effectivity of insurance sector in the Nipponese context whereas Bikker and Bos ( 2008 ) use the conventional ratio of profitableness to measure efficiency of Bankss. Fiscal Reporting for insurance concern has some extra revelation demands over and above the normal revelation model. In this context any insurance company has to follow with the International Financial Reporting Standards ( IFRS ) 4: Accounting for Insurance Contracts. However, ratios remain the footing for analyzing the public presentation of these companies ( Liu, 2009 ) . Below is a description of some cardinal ratios used in the literature to measure insurance company public presentation. Long Term Stability Any company has to hold sufficient capital to go on concern. In the instance of insurance concern, it is required by jurisprudence that each insurance company meets the capital adequateness threshold. Any company in the industry will be considered insolvent if it does non hold the minimal capital demand ( Sterling, 2000 ) . Klumpes ( 2004 ) uses a set of public presentation benchmarking in fiscal services sector with particular mention to the life insurance industry in the UK and draws attending on the importance of solvency, reinsurance every bit good as investings made by the insurance companies when measuring the fiscal wellness of an insurance company. Solvency is measured by comparing the assets and the liabilities of a company. Brockett et Al ( 1998 ) suggests that it is the safety valve of the insurance company which it can utilize to protect itself against any unanticipated vagaries. In the context of Mauritius any company including insurance has to go through the solvency trial set by the companies Act 2001 in add-on to the capital adequateness trial of the Insurance Act. The intent of modulating solvency both for the long and short term is to extenuate the hazard associated with market failures ( Fenn et al, 2008 ) . In general insurer‘s capital must be capable of supplying screens to any hereafter hazard event ( Daset Al., 2003 ) . Asset Backing The strength of a company rests in its assets. This implies both non-current and current assets of the companies. In the context of insurance sector because insurance is itself investing concern, the more diversified is its investing portfolio the more stable and less hazardous is the concern. Generally insurance companies would be given to follow a low geartrain policy in order to guarantee that is assets may be used in the event of a ruinous state of affairs. In this context all insurance companies are led to follow a conservative fiscal geartrain policy. Furthermore variable such as investing in existent belongings and its possible to bring forth hard currency are of import. If the ability to bring forth hard currency from existent belongings is low so the hazard associated with those assets are considered high. However if they can be easy converted into hard currency to settle debts so they will be considered as less hazardous ( Jeng et al, 2007 ) . Profitableness Profitableness is defined as the ability of a concern entity to bring forth net income. It is measured by a figure of ratios such as net net income border, return on assets, return on equity, assets turn over. Extant literature has used these ratios to show public presentation of concern entities including insurance concern. In the insurance sector Berger and Mester ( 1997 ) concentrate more on standard net income efficiency instead than normal net income. They argue that the efficiency of net income is a more comprehensive step of insurance public presentation than cost efficiency. Harmonizing to them gain efficiency measures the firm’s ability to recognize maximal net income under a given status. Yuan and Phillips ( 2008 ) argue that alternate net income efficiency assesses alteration in a firm’s net incomes adjusted for random mistake. Efficiency alterations depend on direction attempts and environmental variables. When comparing standard net income efficiency with alternate net income efficiency, the latter uses the variable end product measures than variable end product monetary values. Many other research workers have worked on net income efficiency of insurance companies ( see Berger et Al, 2000 ; Ward, 2002, Klumpes, 2004 ; Jarraya and Bouri, 2013 ) . 3.3 Corporate Administration and Performance There are several surveies which have investigated the consequence of corporate administration on insurance companies’ public presentation. Cummins and Weiss ( 2000 ) suggest that stock companies and common financess public presentation differs because of different corporate administration attack. They argue that common companies are characterized by lower managerial discretion as opposed to stock companies. Greene and Segal ( 2004 ) reveal that common companies and stock companies are both cost efficient. But others argue that common companies are least efficient than stock companies ( Diboky and Ubl, 2007 ) . Hardwick et Al ( 2004 ) look into the relationship between size of the board of managers and insurance houses efficiency and infer that there is a direct relationship between the two variables. Hyraxet Al. , ( 2003 ) suggest that effectual direction is an of import driver of the fiscal strength of an insurance company. Furthermore, unsound efficiency indexs could bespeak possible jobs in the direction of proficient and investing hazards. Boolaky ( 2007 ) investigates how conformity with corporate administration codification by the fiscal services sector in Mauritius contributes towards effectual public presentation. His survey was based on the whole population of the fiscal services houses and he drew informations from their one-year studies. His findings suggest that houses with higher conformity degree are more effectual and efficient. 3.4 Research Gap Research on the insurance sector is really rich around the universe. Some research workers have investigated the bureau hazard in the insurance concern whilst others have delved into determiners of public presentation. But bulk of these surveies were confined to big economic systems including developed, emerging and developing economic systems. As yet there is no published survey on the insurance sector of Mauritius and in peculiar on the public presentation development of this sector. My undertaking aims to make full the spread by carry oning a clip series analysis on the public presentation of three cardinal insurance companies in Mauritius over a period of 50 old ages. Ratio analysis is used to calculate the public presentation indexs and unit root trial to look into for stationarity. More inside informations are given in chapter 4- Research Methodology.

What Does a Home Health Aide Do

What Does a Home Health Aide Do If you’re looking for a highly sought after, exceptionally stable job in the growing field of healthcare, you’ve come to the right place: home health aides are poised for remarkable success in the years ahead. Not sure whether a career as a home health aide is right for you? Read on to learn everything you need to know about this important job. The 411 on Home Health AidesHome health aides offer a variety of assistance to people with special needs, including those who are cognitively impaired, chronically ill, or disabled. They also care for seniors in need of assistance. Depending on the particular job, the responsibilities of home health aides include everything from helping clients with personal hygiene tasks and checking vital signs to shopping, light housekeeping, and arranging for transportation. Home health aides also offer another vital service to the people for whom they care: companionship.Unlike personal care aides who may be directly employed by their client s, home health aides usually work for agencies. With specialized training, home health aides may also provide simple medical care, such as administering medication and working with ventilators, although these functions must be performed under the direct supervision of a registered nurse or other trained healthcare professional.Home health aides also play a vital role in the continuum of care. Not only do they track the condition and progress of their clients, but they are also tasked with reporting any changes to a client’s physical, mental or emotional state. This can help ensure that they receive the treatment they need as it arises.Why Become a Home Health Aide?With a projected growth rate of 48 percent between 2012 and 2022, home health aide positions offer unprecedented job security with a minimal investment of time and training. In fact, there are no formal education requirements to work in this field, although some employers - typically certified home health and hospi ce agencies - do require that employees undergo formal training and are certified by the National Association for Home Care Hospice.While you may not need a college degree, some other attributes are particularly important when it comes to working as a home health aide. These healthcare workers are detail oriented, skilled at time management, and have strong people skills. They should also be comfortable with performing physical tasks, as clients who are disabled may need to be lifted or turned.And while the current salary for a home health aide is relatively low at $20,820 a year, as demand continues to skyrocket due to the aging â€Å"Baby Boomer† population and their increasing preference for â€Å"aging in place,† so is the potential that salaries will rise in relationship to demand.Coming in behind industrial-organized psychologists (53 percent growth) and personal care aides (49 percent growth), home health aides claim the third spot on the U.S. Department of La bor’s list of the â€Å"10 Fastest Growing Jobs.† For many people, the combination of job security and the chance to make a difference in the lives of others adds up to a career that doesn’t just offer financial stability, but also professional fulfillment.

Argument Paper on Gay Marriage Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Argument Paper on Gay Marriage - Essay Example Gay marriage should not be allowed because it is unnatural, does not provide a child with both a mother and father, and does not fall under the jurisdiction of the government. Also, a counter argument will be given to the view that not allowing gay marriage is discriminatory. Marriage has always been thought of as between one man and one woman. The reason for this is simple—the main objective of marriage is to continue the human race. Gay people cannot make a child together because it is not physically possible. Of course, gay couples can adopt children or use a surrogate, but this is not the same as producing a child themselves. There is a reason why only one man and one woman can make a baby, and that is because they have the necessary means to do so. A man and a woman getting married further cements their relationship and helps confirm to their children that they will remain committed to one another for a very long time. Gay couples cannot have children together, so there i s no reason to allow them to marry. They should be thought of along the same lines as a heterosexual couple who choose to have a fling. They do not want to have a child together, and that is why they do not get married. Gay people should be able to act in the same way, but demanding marriage is going too far. How a child is brought up plays a significant role in how they act when they become adults. Parents have the greatest single influence over a child because they have the most to do with them. While it cannot be denied that having two parents is better than one, it can also be argued that having a parent of each gender helps a child to grow more. Recent research has shown that â€Å"fathers make some unique contributions† in their children’s lives (Eggebeen). Each gender has certain qualities that they can offer a child, and a child should benefit from all of these qualities rather than just one set of them. Two fathers or two mothers cannot fulfill a child’ s emotional needs because there will always be something missing. This is not to say that gay parents don’t try hard, it’s just that two parents of the same gender can only offer so much. Having parents of different genders means that one parent will make up for where the other one lacks and vice-versa. There has always been fierce debate among many religions over their different points of view, but one thing that nearly every major world religion can agree on is that gay marriage should be prohibited. The reason why virtually every religion believes this is because marriage is something that was invented long before any government came around. Thus, it should not be up to the government to decide who can and cannot get married; marriage is a religious institution. Senator Jim DeMint says that â€Å"the government [is] legitimizing and promoting behavior that culturally we have always considered wrong† (Mantyla). Besides being a religious institution, marriage i s also a cultural institution. It is true that culture is something that can evolve over time, but the concept of marriage has been set in stone for many thousands of years, and there is no reason to change that now. For the government to claim ownership of marriage, it would have to prove that it invented the institution of marriage. However, it did not. The only thing that the government does is legally recognize marriages so as to offer tax breaks and provide

Perceptions of performance feedback Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Perceptions of performance feedback - Essay Example ent follows though busy with commitments" and out of 15 people, no one strongly agreed, 14 agreed, 1 neither agreed nor disagreed and no one chose the rest of the options. The eleventh question was "Receive coaching and training" and out of 15 people, no one strongly agreed, 9 agreed, 6 neither agreed nor disagreed and no one chose the rest of the options. Questionnaire # 2 Perceived Perception of Change The first question was " I am part of the decision making process" and out of 15 people none strongly agreed, 2 agreed, 8 neither agreed nor disagreed, none strongly disagreed and 5 chose not applicable. The second question was "Thoughts and ideas are taken seriously" and out of 15 people, 1 strongly agreed, 10 agreed, 4 neither agreed nor disagreed and no one chose the rest of the two options. The third question was "Encouraged to offer solutions" and out of 15 people, none strongly agreed, 15 agreed and no one chose the rest of the options. The fourth question was "I take pride in working for the company" and out of 15 people 2 strongly agreed, 13 agreed and no one chose the rest of the options. The fifth question was "Promotes a family atmosphere" and out of 15 people, 12 strongly agreed, 3 agreed and no one chose the rest of the options. The sixth question was "Company values are compatible with my values" and out of 15 people, 12 strongly agreed, 2 agreed, 1 neither agreed nor disagreed and no one chose the rest of the options. The seventh question was "Company contributes to the community" and out of 15 people, 1 strongly agreed, 14 agreed and no one chose the rest of the options. The eighth question was "Would recommend the company to my friends" and out of 15 people, 4 strongly agreed, 6 agreed, 5 neither agreed nor disagreed and no one chose the rest of the... The third question was "Management makes frequent positive comments" and out of 15, 4 chose strongly agree, 9 chose agree, 2 chose neither agree nor disagree and no one chose strongly disagree and not applicable. The sixth question was "Supervisor cares about personal development" and out of 15 people, 5 chose strongly agree, 5 chose agree, 2 chose neither agree nor disagree and no one chose the rest of the two options. The seventh question was "Expectations are the same for everyone" and out of 15 people, 2 strongly agreed, 7 agreed, 5 neither agreed nor disagreed, 1 strongly disagreed and no one chose the last option. The tenth question was "Management follows though busy with commitments" and out of 15 people, no one strongly agreed, 14 agreed, 1 neither agreed nor disagreed and no one chose the rest of the options. The first question was " I am part of the decision making process" and out of 15 people none strongly agreed, 2 agreed, 8 neither agreed nor disagreed, none strongly disagreed and 5 chose not applicable. The first question was "I always have the supplies to do my job well" and out of 15 people, none strongly agreed, 6 agreed, 3 neither agreed nor disagreed, 6 strongly disagreed and no one chose the last option. The survey

The Scarlet Letter Essay Example for Free

The Scarlet Letter Essay Doesn’t redemption require more than just a simple sorry? Nathaniel Hawthorne uses the letter â€Å"A† to prove redemption may be possible through one’s admirable actions. As stated in The Scarlet Letter, Many people refused to interpret the scarlet A by its original signification. † (Hawthorne 111) meaning Hester Prynne changed the view that others had of her because of her scarlet letter. The punishment from a women’s wrongdoing was soon interpreted from a symbol of sin to a symbol of kindness due to redemption. Hester engages in a variety of acts that turned her from being classified as a horrible human being, into being an idol to the majority of the town. Hester demonstrates what it is like to be an outcast in society. When the town finds out that Hester had committed adultery, everybody views her differently than before. They only see her as a sinner and they all gather to watch her be humiliated and punished in front of the rest of the town. Although Hester did not regret committing her sin, the opinions of others still affect her in a certain way. She is shameful, but not remorseful. As proven, Hester’s thoughts are revealed as, â€Å"Like all other joys, she rejected it as a sin. † (Hawthorne 57) Hawthorne mentions that â€Å"The exception indicated the ever relentless vigor with which society frowned upon her sin. † (Hawthorne 57) This quote proves that society has an entirely different view on Hester just because she will now have a scarlet letter on her breast. During this time, Puritans viewed Hester’s sin in the same way present day society views murder, which is why everybody is repulsed with her because of her act of adultery. The following quote demonstrates Hester’s shame towards having to wear the letter â€Å"As if the letter were not of red cloth, but red-hot iron. I shuddered, and involuntarily let it fall upon the floor. † (Hawthorne 60) This quote displays the severe emotional scarring Hester feels from a small, but extremely significant physical designation handed down from the Puritans. It seems that she is ashamed of the fact that there is going to be an obvious difference between her and the rest of society now. Society thought Hester’s embroidering was too lenient of a punishment. One of the old townspeople even says â€Å"At the very least, they should have put the brand of a hot iron on Hester Prynnes forehead. (Hawthorne 36) At this point in the novel, Hester will not be forgiven nor liked by anyone. Hester suffers in ways that other people do not see, though. The letter â€Å"A† had lead up to Hester almost losing her daughter, Pearl, â€Å"No, my little Pearl! Thou must gather thine own sunshine. I have none to give thee! † (Hawthorne 71) The governor had ordered his servant to take Pearl away once and for all which was all relevant to Hester having the letter A on her bosom. Although people may think Hester’s punishment wasn’t severe enough, her guilt ate at her more than the letter put on her chest. Pearl is also walking proof that is a constant reminder to Hester of her sin and wrongdoing. Many puritans, including Hester herself, view Pearl as the Devil’s child because she was created by sin and is said to be the Devil’s work. Hester’s sin resulted in more consequence than what only lied on her breast. Hester begins to no longer feel humiliated and wears her scarlet letter with pride. She does this to show she is not keeping her scarlet letter a secret any longer. It is said that â€Å"On the breast of her gown, in fine red cloth, surrounded with an elaborate embroidery and fantastic flourishes of gold-thread, appeared the letter A. It was so artistically done, and with so much fertility and gorgeous luxuriance of fancy, that it had all the effect of a last and fitting decoration to the apparel which she wore; and which was of a splendor in accordance with the taste of the age, but greatly beyond what was allowed by the sumptuary regulations of the colony. (Hawthorne 37) This quote is very meaningful to who Hester becomes. It brings out her character and exemplifies her attitude towards her embroidering. She made an effort to show that the opinion of others would not affect her because of this beautiful letter she created for herself. Her creation symbolizes pride and confidence. Dimmesdale also proves this by telling Hester, â€Å"Happy you are, Hester, that we ar that scarlet letter openly upon your bosom! Mine burns in secret!! † (Hawthorne 131) This provides the information that Hester in fact does almost show off her scarlet letter. Hester uses her skill and unleashes her pride to show society that she is no longer affected by wearing the letter and more importantly, she does not care for their opinions. Society not only becomes accepting of Hester, but they forgive and begin to admire her. The townspeople declares that Hester’s â€Å"A† â€Å"Meant Able; so strong was Hester Prynne, with a women’s strength. † (Hawthorne 111) This signifies that Hester has changed the meaning of the letter â€Å"A† from the original meaning of â€Å"Adultery† to meaning â€Å"Able† because she is so strong and helpful in her society. Hester becomes well-respected in her town by the admirable acts she commits. She becomes involved in charity work although the poor doesn’t show compassion towards her; it does not matter because she enjoys helping and doing a good deed from her heart. Not only does Hester partake in charity work, but she also puts her skills towards helping out the needy by knitting clothing for them. Because of these kind acts, it is commonly known that Hester â€Å"Is so kind to the poor, so helpful to the sick, so comfortable to the afflicted! † (Hawthorne 111) Hester changes the view of herself in society’s eyes as a person who is seem as a poor and sinful human being to being honorable and admirable. At the end of Hester’s life she is known as a happy, capable, and honorable legend. You know that Hawthorne is presenting the peak of Hester’s redemption when the town debates as to whether or not Hester’s letter can be removed. Hester’s reply to the debate over the removal of her letter is It lies not in the pleasure of the magistrates to take off this badge. Were I worthy to be quit of it, it would fall away of its own nature, or be transformed into something that should speak a different purport. (Hawthorne 116) Through this quote, Hester is saying the letter can’t and shall not be removed. Furthermore, that only God’s word and the course of nature can result in the letter vanishing from her bosom, not the townspeople’s words. Hester is an honorable woman even after she passes away. She is remembered and served as a legend. It is said that â€Å"As if the dust of the two sleepers had no right to mingle. Yet, one tombstone served fo r both. † (Hawthorne 180) This quote summarizes all of societies view on Hester. Even though Hester had committed infidelity, they still bury her next to her true lover with a shared gravestone. Even in the strictest of all environments, Hester was able to make an exception to Puritan rules and values. Redeeming yourself may take long and require hard work, but if you are committed to turning yourself around, you can. In the beginning of the novel, people are ashamed of Hester’s immorality and they think that her punishment is not nearly as severe as her sin. Society wanted nothing to do with Hester because they saw her as nothing, but a sinner and no longer a Puritan. Throughout the novel, Hester begins to make something of her, beginning with not dwelling on her sin any longer and lifting her chin up high. She commits great acts of kindness for the poor and for the needy to the point where people begin to admire Hester for her acts such caring deeds. All throughout the novel, Hester proves that redeeming yourself is a process. You cannot just apologize for the wrong you have done and be forgiven; you have to take one step at a time. Once you reach the top of the staircase, you have proven you are worthy and capable of being fully redeemed.

All Quiet on the Western Front Essay: Nature of War :: All Quiet on the Western Front Essays

All Quiet on the Western Front:   Nature of War  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In the books All Quiet on the Western Front by Erich Maria Remarque and The Wars by Timothy Findley, there is clear evidence of the nature of war. With all the efforts of preparation, discipline, and anticipation, false hopes were created for the young individuals, who leave the battlefields with numerous emotional and physical scars. The propaganda and disciplinary training to convince naà ¯ve young men to go to battle to fight for their country, the death of their comrades, and the physical breakdown are all part of twentieth century warfare.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Paul Baumer is the main character in All Quiet on the Western Front, and Robert Ross is the main character in The Wars.   Both boys were at a very young age when they were exposed to World War 1.   The war was getting worse as the days went by, and the soldiers were dying quickly.   The commanding officers felt it was best to convince young men to enter the war to support and fight for their country.   They were not told whom they were really fighting for, or the cause.   In Paul’s case, Germany was under attack from many sides, and it was best for him to head for the front lines and defend his fatherland.   Paul was almost â€Å"brainwashed† and was completely convinced that he was doing the right thing. Once it was different.   When we went to the district commandant to enlist, we were a class of twenty young men, many of whom proudly shaved for the first time before going to the barracks.   We had no definite plans for our future.   Our thoughts of a career and occupation were as yet of too unpractical a character to furnish any scheme of life.   We were still crammed full of vague ideas which gave to life, and to the war also an ideal and almost romantic character.   We were trained in the army for ten weeks and in this time more profoundly influenced than by ten years at school (Remarque 25).      However, in Robert’s case, he felt neglected by his family, and sought refuge in the war as a way of escaping his family and the death of his sister. Robert envied him because he could go away when this was over and surround himself with space.   (It was then, perhaps, the first inkling came that it was time for Robert to join the army (Findley 24).

Malaysia Chinese Culture

Malaysia's cultural mosaic is marked by many different cultures, but several in particular have had especially lasting influence on the country. Chief among these is the ancient Malay culture, and the cultures of Malaysia's two most prominent trading partners throughout history–the Chinese, and the Indians. These three groups are joined by a dizzying array of indigenous tribes, many of which live in the forests and coastal areas of Borneo. Although each of these cultures has vigorously maintained its traditions and community structures, they have also blended together to create contemporary Malaysia's uniquely diverse heritage. Populated by the three (3) major races found in Asia, Malaysia culture is a melange of Indian, Malay and Chinese influence The Spring Festival is the most important festival for the Chinese people and is when all family members get together, just like Christmas in the West. All people living away from home go back, becoming the busiest time for transportation systems of about half a month from the Spring Festival. Airports, railway stations and long-distance bus stations are crowded with home returnees. The Chinese character â€Å"fu† (meaning blessing or happiness) is a must. The character put on paper can be pasted normally or upside down, for in Chinese the â€Å"reversed fu† is homophonic with â€Å"fu comes†, both being pronounced as â€Å"fudaole. † What's more, two big red lanterns can be raised on both sides of the front door. Red paper-cuttings can be seen on window glass and brightly colored New Year paintings with auspicious meanings may be put on the wall. Waking up on New Year, everybody dresses up. First they extend greetings to their parents. Then each child will get money as a New Year gift, wrapped up in red paper. People in northern China will eat jiaozi, or dumplings, for breakfast, as they think â€Å"jiaozi† in sound means â€Å"bidding farewell to the old and ushering in the new†. Also, the shape of the dumpling is like gold ingot from ancient China. So people eat them and wish for money and treasure. Burning fireworks was once the most typical custom on the Spring Festival. People thought the spluttering sound could help drive away evil spirits. However, such an activity was completely or partially forbidden in big cities once the government took security, noise and pollution factors into consideration. As a replacement, some buy tapes with firecracker sounds to listen to, some break little balloons to get the sound too, while others buy firecracker handicrafts to hang in the living room. People in different places follow various customs, but all show their love and longing for a better life. Today people will enjoy the full moon and eat moon cakes on that day. The moon looks extremely round, big and bright on the 15th day of each lunar month. People selected the August 15 to celebrate because it is a season when crops and fruits are all ripe and weather pleasant. On the Mid-Autumn Festival, all family members or friends meet outside, putting food on tables and looking up at the sky while talking about life. How splendid a moment it is! | There are many legends about the evolution of the festival, the most popular of which is in commemoration of Qu Yuan. People will dragon boat racing, eating zongzi and drinking realgar wine on that day. On Dragon Boat Festival, parents also need to dress their children up with a perfume pouch. They first sew little bags with colorful silk cloth, then fill the bags with perfumes or herbal medicines, and finally string them with silk threads. The perfume pouch will be hung around the neck or tied to the front of a garment as an ornament. They are said to be able to ward off evil. | The Qingming Festival sees a combination of sadness and happiness. This is the most important day of sacrifice. Both the Han and minority ethnic groups at this time offer sacrifices to their ancestors and sweep the tombs of the deceased. Also, they will not cook on this day and only cold food is served. On each Qingming Festival, all cemeteries are crowded with people who came to sweep tombs and offer sacrifices. Traffic on the way to the cemeteries becomes extremely jammed. The customs have been greatly simplified today. After slightly sweeping the tombs, people offer food, flowers and favorites of the dead, then burn incense and paper money and bow before the memorial tablet.

Creating an immersive video game environment Essay

People play video games for a wide variety of reasons today. They are fun, exciting, and challenging. They are also extremely popular among the generation of digital natives. Digital natives today rely heavily on electronics and computer devices to keep them entertained and interactive. So as a game developer, how do you create an immersive video game environment that is invigorating, interactive, and unique? There are tons of different types of video games out there, which appeal to different age groups, genders, hobbies and interests. Games designed today should feature a number of effects that would rank the particular game high on the recommendations and most played lists. Video games today should feature transformations on 3D models, striking visual effects, and should incorporate all of the newest technologies in order to create some of the best and most unique effects that appeal to all, regardless of the kind of video game, or the target age audience. Many would argue that video games are considered works of art. One would agree that there are various interpretations of what is considered â€Å"art†. However, despite popular belief, an extensive amount of technical knowledge and graphic design experience and knowledge goes on behind video game development. If this wasn’t true, video games wouldn’t become the industry that we all know it as today. As a result, the knowledge of color schemes and visual effects is extremely necessary and essential. In fact, many screenshots of video games today can appear as individual works of art. Of course there is also a great deal of technical knowledge involved, particular in the programming area – such as HTML or JavaScript, and even coding in some cases – but all in all, graphic design and art are underlying areas of video game creation and development. All in all, video games should be exciting experiences that are both stimulating and interactive and with the right amount of adventure and challenge tied into them. Video games should enhance the adventures and capabilities that one wish he or she could experience in real life. Sometimes when we are stuck in traffic or stuck at a traffic light, we sometimes envision ourselves monster trucking the other cars, or in any scenario where we wish we had the powers of a super hero, or that we could fight our enemies in battles and almost always win. Therefore, creating an immersive video game environment truly is a spectacular feat. This is the opportunity for video game designers – whether you are advanced or a beginner – to truly create the ultimate universe where anything and anything is possible. It takes an artistic and creative mind to be able to really create the desired immersive video game environment. However, diving into the world of video games gives us the power to be a part of a world that isn’t reality but perhaps is our dream worlds, where we become a version of our character that we wish we could be. That is the true art, and the true immersive experience.

Definition and Examples of Primary Sources in Research

Definition and Examples of Primary Sources in Research In research  activities,  a primary source refers to information collected firsthand from such sources as historical documents, literary texts, artistic works, experiments, surveys, and interviews. It is also called primary data and is very different than a secondary source. The Library of Congress defines primary sources as actual records that have survived from the past, such as letters, photographs, or articles of clothing, in contrast to secondary sources, which are accounts of the past created by people writing about events sometime after they happened   Examples of Primary Sources [Primary sources] provide the raw data that you use first to test the working hypothesis and then as evidence to support your claim. In history, for example, primary sources include documents from the period or person you are studying, objects, maps, even clothing; in literature or philosophy, your main primary source is usually the text you are studying, and your data are the words on the page. In such fields, you can rarely write a research paper without using primary sources. (Wayne C. Booth et al. The Craft of Research. University of Chicago Press, 2008) Chief Characteristics The chief characteristics of  primary sources are: (1) being present during the experience, event or time and (2) consequently being close in time with the data. This does not mean that data from  primary sources are  always the best data. . . . Data from human sources are subject to many types of distortion because of such factors as selective recall, selective perceptions, and purposeful or nonpurposeful omission or addition of information. Thus data from primary sources are not necessarily accurate data even though they come from firsthand sources. (Natalie L. Sproull,  Handbook of Research Methods: A Guide for Practitioners and Students in the Social Sciences, 2nd ed. Scarecrow Press, 2002) Methods of Collecting Primary Data If the information you need is unavailable or hasnt yet been gathered, youll have to gather it yourself. Four basic methods of collecting primary data are field research, content analysis, survey research, and experiments. Other methods of gathering primary data include historical research, analysis of existing statistics, . . . and various forms of direct observation. (H. Dan OHair et al. Business Communication: A Framework for Success. South-Western, 2001) Secondary Sources and Their Bibliographies By identifying basic facts, such as year of construction, secondary sources can point the researcher to the  best primary sources, such as the right tax books. In addition, a careful reading of the bibliography in a secondary source can reveal important sources the researcher might otherwise have missed. (Alison Hoagland and Gray Fitzsimmons, History.  Recording Historic Structures, 2nd. ed., edited by John A. Burns. Wiley, 2004) Original Sources The distinction also needs to be made between primary and original sources. It is by no means always necessary, and all too often it is not possible, to deal only with original sources. Printed copies of original sources, provided they have been undertaken with scrupulous care (such as the published letters of the Founding Fathers), are usually an acceptable substitute for their handwritten originals. (E. J. Monaghan and D. K. Hartman, Undertaking Historical Research in Literacy, in Handbook of Reading Research, ed. by P. D. Pearson et al. Erlbaum, 2000) Finding and Accessing Primary Sources This one is entirely dependent on the assignment given and your local resources; but when included, always emphasize quality.  . . . Keep in mind that there are many institutions such as the Library of Congress that make primary source material freely available on the Web.  (Joel D. Kitchens, Librarians, Historians, and New Opportunities for Discourse. ABC-CLIO, 2012)

Is Ghost Blogging Unethical

Is Ghost Blogging Unethical You didnt write that post, but you put your name on it. You hired a ghost blogger. Ghost blogging: one person writes the blog posts, but another person gets the credit, with or without disclosure that the blog uses ghost written posts. Does that seem wrong to you? Unethical? Some say thats an easy yes, but others, particularly in the public relations industry, say no. It depends on how you see your content, and how comfortable you are with a lie. 1. Ghost Blogging Ruins The Relationship Social media and blog content–its all about the relationship now, isnt that right? Were talking, were conversing, were engaging. Its all inbound marketing and in order for that to work, we have to be transparent and open and above all else, be concerned with connecting personally to our readers. In this strict definition, ghost blogging seems like a home-wrecker in our relationship with our audience. Blogger Dave Fleet has written an article about the  ethics of ghost writing  in social media, stating outright that it is unethical if it is undisclosed because it harms the relationship. Unlike ghost-written speeches, where the spokesperson lends their name and approval to the writing by actually saying the words, ghost-written blogs can be published without the named person ever seeing them. Fleet later wrote an article addressing ghost blogging directly, stating that it was wrong. Writing blog posts was part of relationship-building. When did outsourcing your relationships become  okay? Dave Fleet Maybe the question isnt whether ghost blogging is ethical or not, but instead, whether your blog is about relationships or information. Not All Blogs Are Relationships To play devils advocate, let me suggest that not all blogging is relationship building.   Some blogs are purely for information. Just as a writer publishes a book (paper or ebook), you buy it, you read it, you dont assume the author wants to start a transparent relationship with you. The information was the thing. Consider the many reasons people create blogs: Create and cultivate relationships. Develop their image and platform. Frame and speak on issues that affect them or their brand (self PR). Show themselves as thought leaders. Media catching (journalists contact them because of what they found on their blog) for attention. Communicate with the rest of the organization, or shareholders. A pure love of writing. Earning money from ads, sales, affiliates, etc. Attract search engines to their website where their business and products are found. Do all of these reasons really have to be considered relationships?  I know we are trained to think that way now,  but is it the only route? The trend and best practices youll hear now is that all content is framed in a relational and social approach. To be the devils advocate for a moment, I would suggest that it is also possible that you are only interested in relaying information and arent looking for a relationship (ask any seriously introverted writer about this). While you might see significantly different results than someone who views their content as relational, you are, at least, getting content on your site. If its good, youll still be found by search engines. Maybe thats enough for you.

Business Report Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 1

Business Report - Coursework Example We will also ensure that we maximise our profit. There are financial risks that occur in this type of business. Furthermore, some problems with the customers may occur. All these problems should be solved in order to achieve our goals. 2. Introduction Through our research, we found out that Witney; in Oxfordshire do not have an independent shop that sells toys. Our main targets are the kids. We realised that the demand of electronic and traditional toys at this town is very high. Jay and I have decided to run this new business venture. We agreed to start a partnered business. This business will have two stakeholders i.e. Jay and me. Our vision in this business venture is to ensure that our customers are served with the best products in the market as well as ensuring that we achieve our business goals which maximising profit with minimal costs. It is our responsibility to ensure that this vision is achieved without incurring unnecessary costs. We will also ensure that risks are reduce d to the best of our ability. Our starting cost will include ?25,000 that we borrowed from the bank and ?25, 000 from my savings account. Jay will not contribute anything from his account. This report will deal with the type of business we chose and the research we have done on this business. It discusses the reasons why we chose this business. It will also touch on our target customers and the possible problems that we will face in this business. 3. Main body The type of business we decided to operate in is the general partnership business. This is a business entity that involves two or more partners who agreed to do a business. We chose this business entity because it is easy for two of us to run. We will be sharing profit and losses equally. In addition, both of us are liable to any debts that may occur. This business entity was also the best for us because it does not require a notarial deed. We will make our agreement private i.e. the agreement will only be between me and Jay. 3.1 Procedures for General Partnership establishment Weiss et al. says there is no formality in forming our general partnership. This is because our agreement is private. We decided to write an agreement in order to avoid future misunderstandings. However, there are rules that govern the business partnership. For our partnership to exist, we must first register it by following the rules from Company Act 2006 (Van, 2007:21). For us to form this company, we must first give our names to the memorandum of association and ensure that we comply with the requirements that are needed for one to register our company. The registrar must receive the memorandum of association form our company. For us to be registered, we must submit our company name, postal address location and business entity of the company. We should also state that our company is a private one. After all these, the application will to be delivering to the England’s registrar of companies (Degenhardt, 2010:54). After o ur company has been approved, Partnership act 1890 should also be adhered to. For our partnership to exist, there rules that must be followed. The partnership should ensure that we share profits equally as stated by our agreement. Both of us will be liable to all company’s debt. Our partnership will now have a firm name. We will manage our business fairly. Profits and control of assets will be done equally (Degenhardt, 2010:59). 3.2 Financial risks There are possible financial risks that are likely