Transhuman Megalomania

Transmute Megalomania Transmutation Deflation: The belief or theory that the human race can evolve beyond Its current physical and mental Limitations, especially by means of science and technology. Megalomania Definition: A psychopathology condition characterized by delusional fantasies of wealth, power, or omnipotence; an obsession with grandiose or extravagant things or actions. Causes the afflicted to believe that they have great or unlimited power or importance. Definition: Not a new mental illness. Refers to victims of megalomania whose edified abilities Justify the subject's sense of Importance.Due to the ubiquitous nature of moods, cybernetic, nanotechnology, bioengineering, picnic, or transubstantiation, It Is Inevitable that certain megalomaniacs are also high-powered madders. Ascertaining whether the Illness Induced the subject's extensive modification or if nodding cements the illness has generally been dismissed as a chicken-or-the-egg conundrum. There is little to be don e for treatment of hyper- megalomaniacs, other than necessary acts of subdued and detainment. Treatment an begin after the subject is forcibly deprived of moods and demoted to a baseline megalomania status.Definition: The belief or theory that the human race can evolve beyond its current physical and mental limitations, especially by means of science and technology. Wealth, power, or omnipotence: an obsession with grandiose or extravagant things or modified abilities Justify the subject's sense of importance. Due to the ubiquitous nature of moods, cybernetic, nanotechnology, bioengineering, picnic, or modification or If nodding cements the Illness has generally been dismissed as a reinvestigation, it is inevitable that certain megalomaniacs are also high-powered madders.Ascertaining whether the illness induced the subject's extensive Natural Computing Natural Computing is an interdisciplinary field of research that investigates human- designed computing inspired by nature as well as computation taking place in nature, I. E. , it investigates models, computational techniques, and computational technologies inspired by nature as well as it investigates phenomena/processes taking place in nature in terms of information processing. One of the research areas room the second strand of research is the computational nature of biochemical reactions.It is hoped that this line of research may contribute to a computational understanding of the functioning of the living cell, which is based on interactions between (a huge number of) individual reactions. These reactions are regulated, and the main regulation mechanisms are facilitation/acceleration and inhibition/ retardation. The interactions between individual reactions take place through their influence on each other, and this influence happens through these two mechanisms.

No Good Reasons To Believe in Dualism Essay

Are there any good reasons to believe in dualism? Dualism, the philosophical theory that states that there are two kinds of substance: mental and physical, is now largely discredited by the world’s leading philosophers. It first came to prominence through Renà ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ Descartes in his Meditations as he tried to come to terms with the fact that most of his knowledge was either false or that he did not have enough evidence to believe in it firmly enough. For many centuries the idea was debated and reclassified, changing slightly from philosopher to philosopher and being totally rejected by others. The alternative to dualism is monism, the idea that mental and physical substances are one and the same; that is that the mind is or is contained within (in the tissue of), the brain. At first it appeared that dualism was indeed a logical conception, as features of the mind and the body seemed very different indeed. Descartes pointed out that while one could imagine oneself without physical features, it was impossible to imagine oneself without a mind; indeed the very action of attempting this was enough to prove that a mind was present. This was the basis of Descartes’ theory to draw out basic knowledge that he could not be deceived about. Due to this distinction it seemed logical to conclude, using Leibniz’s Law, that physical and mental entities were indeed separate. However, Descartes had made a mistake in assuming that his clear and distinct perceptions of a thing made that thing possible. For example, I can clearly and distinctly conceive of a unicorn, but that does not mean that they exist. (Lewis Carroll parodied this in Through the Looking Glass, in which the Red Queen tells Alice she imagines several impossible things before breakfast. Presumably she has a clear and distinct perception of these things, as when Alice attempts it, she is told she is not trying hard enough.) Also, I can just as clearly perceive of something not being as of it being, and as something cannot both be and not be, it would seem that this theory for basing something upon an unalterable internal proposition falls down. So, the argument from clear and distinct perception cannot be used here as it is just as easy to conceive of the mind and body being separate as it is for them to be one and the same. There are many scientific and logical arguments in favour of monism, Occam’s Razor, for example, a theory which asks us to take the simpler solution to a problem over the more complicated theory. For example, before the biology of animals was worked out scientifically, it was believed that all living creatures had an attribute called vitalism, which kept it alive. Now we know the biology, we can use this much simpler explanation. Here it can be applied easily: obviously it is simpler to believe in one substance than two, one of which does not conform to the laws of physics. There is also scientific evidence that shows us how damaging or experimenting with the brain, which is undeniably physical, can affect a person’s mental behaviour. Performing a lobotomy, for instance, can totally alter a person’s personality – turning them from being calm and rational to being crude and rash, or vice versa. Similarly, stimulating neurons on the Thingybob Strip, which crosses the top of the brain, can cause sensations all over the body. It may be that prodding a part of this strip can make your elbow tingle in a most delightful manner or make your thumb feel as if it is being dragged through warm treacle. It would seem from this that the these feelings are to be found in the prodded part of the brain and this is where the mental is to be found within the physical. These reasons show that monism is probably the more scientifically favourable position, but are there any reasons that can show Dualism to be the more logical choice? Leibniz’s Law might argue for dualism in that there being differences between the physical and the mental, they must therefore be separate substances. For example, having a chunk of the physical removed does not mean a part of the mental has also been removed. In fact, an awful lot of the physical body can be harmed, even in the brain, before there is a definite mental side effect. Surely, say the dualists, if the some parts of the mental were contained within certain parts of the brain, for example, if the capacity to taste lentils were located solely in a small part of the brain, and that part were to be removed we would no longer have the capacity to taste lentils. But a lot of the brain can be removed, and so, if there were set areas we would be removing certain abilities of the mental. Therefore, the mental must be separate from the physical. However, it is true that removing some areas of the brain will prevent the mental from performing certain capabilities. It is possible to find out which areas of the brain are functioning when fuelled by particular stimuli, and if, when doing this we slice out those areas of the brain, in some (but not all) cases, those functions will no longer be possible. Also, the left side of the brain and the right side provide vastly different functions – one being more practical and other being more intellectual. This would seem to back up the monist theory that the mind is located within certain parts of the brain. Another counter argument to Dualism could be contained within Feigl’s concept of Nomological Danglers. If the mental is indeed distinct from the physical it cannot be present within the same world as the physical things we know of, as removing physicals things would inevitably reveal the mental substance. Therefore it follows that it is connected to this physical world in some other way. However, Feigl tells us that it is ridiculous to believe that there is a separate type of law for these substances, which allows them to exist dependently of the rest of physics. Surely the mental substances cannot be ‘dangling’ outside of the realms of reality? These masses of arguments for monism overwhelm the poorer, outdated arguments for dualism, which stem from a less scientifically advanced age, in which the solutions appeared to work logically, based on a more internal philosophy of contemplation, which is now being replaced by a more practical philosophy, backed up by the sciences. Hence it is not unfair to say that previous ideas that worked in favour of dualism are no longer good reasons to believe the theory and that as we have better reasons to take the theory of monism seriously, we must subscribe to it, and not dualism, as the correct theory.

Can Blake Be Considered To Be a Romantic Poet

Romantism was an artistic movement, which took place between 1770 and 1848. It highlighted a significant change in society. Before, people generally believed in the neo-classic system, which was extremely authoritarian, there was no belief in the power of imagination, paintings were realistic portraits or landscapes and literature was inflexible. Everything was more or less constrained. Signs of romatism were evident in writers such as Mary Shelly and ETA Hoffman who both alluded to the darkly mysterious aspects of life. Slowly writers started to portray nature in relation to mans sentiments (Gray was a fine example of this). This is displaying imagination, as it is associated with the individuals' state of mind. Rousseau was a great influence in the Romantic Movement, his literature showed adventure and a clear use of imagination. William Blake was an ardent follower of Rousseau and his beliefs. This is evident in his poems, such as The Tiger taken from Songs Of Innocence. In this poem there is a contest between the tiger and the blacksmith, the tiger being a natural, powerful, instinctive and full of energy and imagination while the blacksmith ruins, crafts and reconstructs natural materials. It is clear in the poem that Blake had a great degree of respect for the tiger and this is shown where it says: â€Å"On what wings dare he aspire? What the hand dare seize the fire.† This is taken from the second stanza of the poem, which consists solely of questions. These questions are evidence of Blake's fascination with this creature that is individual in thought and action, that isn't influenced by Urizen and is not affected by the mind forged manacles. It is evident in this poem that Blake was a believer in the power of imagination. He loathed anything that limited or constricted imagination. This is partly from the influence of Jean Jacques Rousseau's The Social Contract, the opening sentence resembles key words that appear in Blake's poems: â€Å"Man is born free but everywhere he is in chains.† Here, the key words are â€Å"free† and â€Å"chains†. Chains are mentioned a countless number of times in Blake's poems, most noticeably in The Tiger where it says: â€Å"What thy hammer? What thy chain?† A hammer is a weapon that shapes (resembling how the church/monarchy shaped society) and a chain is a weapon that restricts and Blake obviously felt that people were being oppressed. As well as having respect for individual and instinctive creatures like the tiger, Blake was also very fond of children. Many of his poems are based on children with a particular emphasis on childhood memories, for example: The Chimney Sweeper and The Nurses Song. Both of these poems appear in two parts, each with one in Songs of Innocence and the other in Songs of Experience. This emphasises the value of individual experience. If we look at The Nurses Song (Innocence), it is clearly portraying a feeling of joy and optimism; this is evident where it says: â€Å"When the voices of children are heard on the green And laughing is heard on the hill.† Here, the words: â€Å"voices† and â€Å"laughing† tell us that children have a voice and are allowed to have a voice, and be expressive. Also, the emphasis on the surrounding environment makes the setting very idyllist (like that of fairy tale). The key concept to this poem is authority. In this poem the nurse is benevolent and lenient. However, in the NUSRSES song (experience), the key figure (the nurse) becomes jealous and self-centred, this is portrayed where it says: † The days of my youth rise fresh in my mind, My face turns green and pale.† Now the nurse has envy in her soul, she wants to be like a child again because experience has made her so cynical. Here, there are two important points, one is experience, Blake is showing us how people change with experience, after being constrained and oppressed people became self – centred and envious like the nurse. The other factor is childhood, he is emphasising the sacredness and vitality of that part of life. As this is the only time when we can be completely frank and voice our thoughts without hesitation and its accepted. By analysing Blake's poetry and imagery it is clear to see that he can be considered a romantic poet. It is clear to see in The Tiger that he believes in the power of imagination and this is also evident in all his work. He emphasises on the value of experience a great amount and this is most obviously shown by the composition of Songs of Experience. All his work shows a subjective point of view, which is expressed through the intensity of the language he uses. He has linked together man and nature (most noticeably) in The Sick Rose and The Clod and the Pebble. All his work reflects his state of mind, he is conveying his point of view through his literature and art forms, and this makes him a romantic poet.

Wine Market (ALDI Group) Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Wine Market (ALDI Group) - Case Study Example In 2008, ALDI's global revenues reached an estimated $65,700.0 million in tendered sales. Distribution of revenues across markets reveals growth in some regions of the world, and retraction in others. Adequate analysis of sites for aggressive advancement of wine varietals within ALDI stores across the board requires data on the overall picture of the various market regions and segmentation analysis of both the wine industry and its customers, for future integration of operations and knowledge sharing with industry partners toward realization of the Group's planned expansion in this product area. One of the strengths of ALDI's German based operations has been the Group's flexible approach to strategic opportunities during moments of economic downturn. A company known for its vision of offering the 'cheapest' high caliber products to its markets, ALDI has brought its 'home,' national and international brand grocery product lines to customers at the lowest possible prices while retaining the select-assortment concept indicative of specialty stores. ALDI's philosophy of grocery retail is based on a 'less-is-more' approach; from supplier selection to store location development and operations, each step in the distribution to market chain is managed to facilitate savings substantial enough to impact the everyday lives of consumers. The Group is reliant upon a tri-partite model of conducting retail business, which includes concentration on: 1. Purchasing power which translates to customer savings, by a large grocery retailer with focused attention on a limited number of 1,400 grocery and household items, of which are mostly ALDI 'select brands'; 2. Streamlined operations that enable the corporation to reduce costs; 3. Adherence to stringent quality standards dedicated to matching or exceeding the leading national brand in taste, appearance, and/or performance. In the context of the most recent global financial crisis, ALDI is looking for ways in which to expand its market share in the retail wine sector. Strategic planning toward this vision must acknowledge points of saturation in the wine market, as well as the total competitive picture in the retail grocery industry. For instance, ALDI's market share in its home country, Germany, has actually seen a reduction recently due to a high level of competition from other compatriot corporations. In efforts to retain the Group's 19% share of the German national market, the stores have begun to offer shoppers more in the way of international brands, and better incentives through semi-weekly promotions in order to capture a larger segment of the middle-class consumer population. Despite the challenge faced at home, ALDI's operations in over 15 other countries continue to be successful, and while hit and miss in 'hot' markets in Eastern Europe sustained by youth demographics, ALDI has recently opened stores in Hungary and Poland. The Commonwealth countries of South Pacific offer a similar demographic operations in Australia now

Accounting for Liquidation of a Partnership Essay - 1

Accounting for Liquidation of a Partnership - Essay Example Hence, the balance sheet is the document open in the liquidation process (Delaney & Whittington, 2005). Liquidating a partnership necessitates selling noncash assets for cash and recognition of gain or loss on realization, allocation of the gains or losses to the partners based on their profit/loss ratios, cash payment of the liabilities of the partnership and distributing the remaining cash to the partners based on their capital balances. The aforementioned steps of the partnership liquidation process must be executed sequentially (Kimmel, Weygandt & Kieso, 2011). The other options available for partnership include placing the business under receivership where an administrative receiver is appointed to oversee the recovery process of the business in case of a limited liability partnership (Delaney & Whittington, 2005). In addition, the partners may decide to undertake an individual voluntary agreement with the creditors so that the secured creditors can be assured of their security enforcement before their final decision on forcing the partner into bankruptcy (Reeve, Warren & Duchac,

Why racial and sexual discrimination are immoral Essay

Why racial and sexual discrimination are immoral - Essay Example For example, when one is looking for a job and he/she is said by maybe the management or the person dealing with the recruitment drive that he/she doesn’t fit into the job just because of gender or race means that the organization is not after someone who can deliver but after someone to just fill the vacant position. To the organization, performance of the individual is not the hinge as it should be in normal circumstances. Also, when one seeks treatment in a hospital and he/she is denied medical services just because he does not belong to the right race or gender then the hospital fails in the mandate of its existence. The hospital is meant to offer medical services to people who in turn make payments which mean continuity. If the hospital fees are not accruing due to discrimination, then it means the hospitals existence is at threat which translates to many loosing their jobs and others loosing the opportunity to be get services. Again, when one is treated with bias in business matters, he/she may be the unexploited opportunity which other business partners have not discovered and which could take them a notch higher. In this case, such opportunity is given to the least deserving thus minimizing the returns of the venture. This means that, the main objective of the venture is not the driving force which will lead to more profits and thus the continuity of the venture. The three examples above confirm that, discriminating a person due to gender or race has nothing beneficial. According to Kantianism, an activities worth is measured according to its beneficial aspects. The number of good deeds resulting from the action should surpass the bad ones and if possible bad outcomes should be non-existent in any action that is taken by human beings (Jeremy, B 2007). When you get someone as an employee due to his/her race (as yours), then performance is compromised in this case. Giving a person an opportunity without regard of gender of race means that the

Both Young Goodman Brown ad Rip Van Winkle Have a dreamlike experience Essay

Both Young Goodman Brown ad Rip Van Winkle Have a dreamlike experience in the wildernessmountains versus woods what do both stories reveal to the reader ab - Essay Example As one might imagine, it took a while for American literature to develop as an independent genre: the tasks of taking a continental wilderness and turning it into a habitable region, and then into an independent country, left scant leisure time for the generation of literature. However, as the young United States of American began to enter its fourth and fifth decades, some of its first major authors began to emerge. Two of these were Washington Irving and Nathaniel Hawthorne, and their writings began to define the American experience for the rest of the world, and show how the North American continent had shaped its colonists and citizens. "Rip Van Winkle" and "Young Goodman Brown" are two different takes on the changes that the American experience had on European sensibilities. According to John Hardt, both "Rip Van Winkle" and "Young Goodman Brown" contain examples of "paradisal skepticism," or "a retreat from the paradisal ideal with a recognition of limits in human knowledge" (Hardt, p. 249). In other words, both works show an attempt by the protagonist to encounter some sort of paradise on Earth, and both see that such a paradise is not possible, because of the restrictions that human nature places on our possibilities. In "Young Goodman Brown," Hardt suggests that the woods that Brown enters were once the Garden of Eden. However, the serpent (here, represented by the old man) has taken over the wilderness. When Brown leaves his wife, Faith, he also leaves his religious faith behind. The ensuing journey is one of instability, one that examines his knowledge (Hardt, p. 255). Once Goodman Brown emerges from this experience, he realizes the limits of his knowledge, and lives the rest of his life in fear. If one relates this to the idea of the American Dre am, one can see Young Goodman Brown as the symbolic pioneer, heading out into the unknown, trying to make his fortune in an untouched wilderness. While he may have bold aspirations, his inner fears weaken him and keep him from fulfilling that promise. One can interpret this as meaning that the context in which most Europeans lived before coming to colonize the New World ensured that they would encounter failure in at least some of their ideals. Indeed, the same petty beliefs that held sway in Europe followed their holders across the Atlantic Ocean, as one might guess. Walter Shear has a somewhat different look at the significance of Young Goodman Brown's journey into the woods. He sees the separation of Young Goodman Brown from his wife as the creation of a psychological individual. Not only does he symbolically abandon faith, but he also leaves behind orthodox belief and worship practices (Shear, p. 545). He must fight with those that he encounters in the forest if he wants to retain his own morals and values. After this conflict, he returns to mainstream society, more conscious of himself and the way that he interacts with those around them. His transformation, according to Shear, is analogous to the transformation of Puritanism over time in North America, as the purity of its religious beliefs decreased over time, ending

Identify the defining features of Realist perspective and assess their Essay

Identify the defining features of Realist perspective and assess their relevance to the analysis of contemporary world politics - Essay Example This easy explores the defining features of realist perspective such as state actors, egoism, anarchy, power, security, and morality with the aim of presenting an assessment of their relevance to the analysis of contemporary world politics. In their analysis of international politics, realists assert the central role played by the state in dictating international relations as opposed to other theories of international relations like liberalism that accepts international institutions as being part of the actors day (Kegley, 2013). Realists saw the state as triumphant over other forms of political authority like feudal principalities, city-states, and empires such as the Soviet Union. According to the views of realists such as Hobbes, the state enjoys a distinctive monopoly of legitimate violence given that in the global arena, all the people regardless of nationality, language, culture, ethnic background or religion have accepted or have a state that force them to resolve their confli cts. Such a people also look for the state to protect their interests against aggressions from other states and international actors (Kolodziej, 2005). The assertion of the state as the main player in international relations means that actors in the international politics will put the importance of state interest the centre of any interactions with other players in the global area. Realist conception of the state as the central actor in international relations through its exercise of power in certain ways has far-reaching significances on the relationship between states and other actors on the international arena (Kaarbo & Ray, 2011). Such assumptions are essential in the contemporary world politics where such bodies as multinational corporations have no legal or political right to act as independent or autonomous actors in the international economy since they are only part of state power or instrument of foreign policy. Multinational corporations are not in themselves, substantial economic and political force, in their exercise of power and influence, they are only an extension and reflection of the power and might of specific states under which they act (Steans, Pettiford, & El-Anis, 2013). The main concern for realist is the state of anarchy, which stands for a situation where there is no international government to intercede on interstate conflicts. Realist believes that the main concern in international relations is the condition of anarchy, which is based on their view that the world lacks a central sovereign power to regulate relations between states. The absence of international body with the authority to create and enforce regulatory measures on interstate relationships, realists argue, means the states as main players put in place their own scheme for survival and are free to define their own interests and pursuit of power day (Kegley, 2013). Anarchy in the international politics therefore, leads to a circumstance where power has the superseding role of dictating interstate relations (Steans, Pettiford, Diez & El-Anis, 2013). Realists point out the failure of international institutions like the Permanent Court of International Justice and the League of Nation is because such international organizations exert minimal pressure on behaviour of states. This realist assumption is clear in the way contemporary states peruse their interests by choosing to overlook international

Training and development Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words - 1

Training and development - Essay Example Their area ranges from workplace promotion safety to succession planning. In the light of fast changing trends in the event industry, it would be really difficult for an event management organisation to remain competitive unless its employees are competent enough to deliver an exciting attendance experience to the participants. Evidences suggest that employee satisfaction can be met and employee performance may be improved in the event sector paying specific attention to HR activities. This paper will analyse the HRM approaches and policies of the Wizcraft International Entertainment giving particular focus given to the firm’s training and development practices. Event management can be simply referred to a management process that involves planning, creation, and direction of all kinds of events. â€Å"Event Management is the application of project management skills to the creation and development of events like conferences, symposiums, seminars, fairs, exhibitions, concerts, festivals, and functions† (MIT International School of Broadcasting and Journalism). Today event management is essential in most of the areas of life such as entertainment, business, finance, fashion, sport, and music. Event planning is an integral part of event management, and it includes budgeting, fixing dates, booking event site, acquiring legal licenses and permits, managing transportation, developing a theme for the event, arranging facilities like chairs and speakers, and co-ordinating event support, decor, catering, security, emergency tams, and cleanup. Today the event management industry deals with events of all sizes ranging from even a breakfast meeting to Olympics. Nowadays the corporate sector gives emphasis to the concept of event management, because it is widely considered as a strategic management and communication tool (Anih, 2012). Hence corporations create promotional events, from product launches to press conferences, to

Quantitative method for finance Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Quantitative method for finance - Essay Example 2. Probability models are models that become relevant when the outcome of interest is not continuous (such as wages per week or stock prices) but rather binary in nature such as, work/not work, survive/not survive etc. In such cases, the simplest possible methodology adoptable is that of the linear probability model or LPM. The response variable of interest, say Y takes the values 0 and 1 only and the approach is to model the expected value of this variable as a linear function of the independent predictor variables X: (ii) The variance of y will be dependent on x. That is, the model will suffer from conditional heteroscedasticity. This violates the homoscedasticity assumption of OLS. Thus, even though estimates will still be unbiased, the OLS estimator will not be efficient and the estimated standard error will be biased. (iii) The error terms are also binary. They can only take the values of or and thus cannot be normally distributed. Therefore, the assumption of normality of errors is also violated and this in turn would imply problems for typical inferential procedures. (iv) Finally, due to the binary nature of the dependent variable, diminishing returns cannot hold. Therefore, the functional form restricts the possibility of obtaining diminishing marginal impacts of the independent variable on the dependent variable. 3. (i) If the condition does not hold, then applying OLS is no longer optimum. The assumption implies the error covariances are zero. This is necessary for OLS estimates to have the â€Å"Best, Linear, Unbiased† properties. If the error covariances are not zero, then the assumption of the Gauss-Markov theorem are not satisfied and thus, the OLS estimates are no longer best, although they are still unbiased and consistent. The main problem arises in the context of inferences. 4. (i) If then the series is said to have a unit root. This implies that the series is non-stationary. This essentially translates to the mean and

Ratio Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Ratio Analysis - Essay Example The paper uses Profitability, efficiency, liquidity and shareholder ratios as the basic tools. The more complex tools like IRR, WACC etc are ignored to keep the analysis simple and meaningful. In addition, the paper identifies the Key Performance indicators (KPIs) of the company and highlights the basic steps taken by the company to achieve the KPI targets. The company’s current year’s results with respect to the KPI targets are also discussed and highlighted. To:  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Board of Directors of Go Ahead group Plc. From:  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Robert Frost, Accountant Re:  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Ratio Analysis and KPI discussion Date:  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  February 25, 2013 With regard to your concerning the analysis of organizational financial performance and position, I would like to present this report which summarized, analyzes and properly interprets the basic financial ratios of the co mpany. I hope it will be of great help for you to understand and target the areas where improvement is required and further take strategic actions to improve and sustain the strong growth areas of our business. Introduction Go Ahead Group Plc is a leading company in the public transport industry. The company has a high regard in the industry for having social, financial and environmental aims working together at its core strategic plans. The company aims at providing transportation in the urban and other areas with less delays, high environmental targets and social responsibility. The company has captured the highest share of the transportation industry by focusing on the KPIs it has set. The company has also improved its efficiency and effectiveness in operations by reducing waiting times, increasing punctuality, spending more on security and comfort of the people and availability of their services with proper schedules and plans. The company’s financial analysis and discuss ion on its core competences is given below. Ratio Analysis Current & Previous Year The Return on Net Assets ratio reveals that the company is using the net assets very efficiently in carrying out its operations. The company is employing and making higher than expected profits by properly allocating the assets. The Return on Shareholders’ Funds in 2011 and 2012 shows significant returns to meet the company’s profit demands. Moreover, it completely satisfies the shareholders on the use and allocation of their shareholdings as per the returns generated in the two years under consideration. The operating profit margin, although slightly lower than previous year, is satisfactory. Moreover, if the one-off benefit is eliminated, the company shows an increase of ?8.1m in operating profit. Hence, the actual operating profit margin is higher than the previous year further showing a strengthened financial position of the company. The ROCE of 17.6% and 19.2% is satisfactory in 201 2 and 2011 respectively (Appendix 1). The slight reduction is not worrying, yet it should be stopped from recurrence to maintain the position that the company holds. The net asset

Blood Brothers Essay Example for Free

Blood Brothers Essay My initial example is where Eddie is advising Mickey what to say when he asks Linda out. Eddie: Linda my loins are burning for you. Let me lay my weary head on your warm breast; Linda, I love you, I want you, the very centre of my being calls out for you! Eddies environment has obviously affected the way that he could just think of something to say which is very romantic. You could not imagine Mickey saying such things. Eddie is more confident and knows how to use his vocabulary well in order to get people to do things. When Mickey tries to, his outcome is abysmal. Mickey: Erm er, well the thing is the centre of my being cries out for erm, my knees, loins are (snaps) Linda for Christs sake will you go out with me? Linda agrees. Mickey cannot find the right words to say even if he is told what to say. Mickeys vocabulary is retarded because of his environment. His school is worse than Eddies so he tries to copy Eddie but still cannot do that. I put this under humour because I thought it was quite funny but it could also go under language as both of the boys language has been affected by their environment. My next example is when the policewoman asks Eddie what he is doing. Eddie replies Adolf Hitler. Then the policewoman asks him what his name is and he says that he is waiting for the 92 bus. For one moment I think Eddie wanted to be like Mickey and tried to be cheeky to the police officer but because of his family and environment he was unable to do that and it ended up the wrong way around. This example is like my original but the other way around. Now, I am going to discuss the way that Russell uses plot to stress the point that family and environment have an effect on peoples lives and opportunities. The whole of the story is based around two males who are separated at birth. One of the twins had been told that there was a twin brother and that he died at birth, the other had been told that he was an only child. Now they are isolated from each other their lives begin to change because of their background and environment. My first example is when Mickey and Linda are married and are looking for a house from the council. They had been waiting for approximately five years for a new house and still had not got one! When Linda was passing the Council Offices she stepped into the housing officers office and asked to speak to him. When he arrived Linda was surprised as the man was Eddie. She pleaded once again for a house to live in, and because of Eddies environment he said that all he needed to do was to make one phone call. Then Mickey and Linda would be at the top of the list and could have a house very soon. Because of Mickey and Lindas environment, they were forced to go to the council for a cheap or free house and considering Eddies status he could do this extremely quickly. My second example for plot is where Linda turns out just like Mrs Johnson, (Mickeys mum. ) In Educating Rita, another of Russells work, Rita was expected to have a baby as soon as they got married. This is just like Linda with Mickey. In their family and environment they are expected to have a baby young and to traditionally stay around the house. This reduces their opportunities in life as they do not work once they have had a baby. The man of the house, in their environment, is foreseen to do all of the work and bring all of the money in. This is exactly what happens in this story. Now, I have completed plot, I will go on to analyse the staging devises Willy Russell uses to show the effect that family and environment have on the two boys lives. There was a recent performance at a local theatre, which I went to see. I found that by going to see the acted story I found how even the way you dress, your family and your environment were involved in some way. My leading example through set is costume. I noticed Mickey was wearing clothes too big for him which have most likely been passed down through the family. Eddie is the complete opposite to Mickey in the way that he is wearing smart, new school clothes and looks very sharp in his uniform. Russell shows how even clothes have an effect on family and environment. At the play it showed the brothers in completely different houses. One at the rough end of the village and the other at the very high end of social environment. They live in different ways and houses because of their environment. Their family either reduces the opportunity to live in a high class house or improves the opportunity. There are certain changes in the acted story, the first being where Mickey helped his brother complete a crime which went wrong. People in Mickeys environment often resort to this as they need the money, but people in Eddies environment would never be constrained to doing this sort of thing as they always have money. When Mickey went to jail he had to be put on anti-depressants to help him cope with the stress and loneliness of prison. This was the final straw for Mickey because all of his life he had been pushed to the limit craving for food and money, lots of things also go wrong in Mickeys environment. When he finally reached confinement he felted that was enough. If Eddie had been placed in jail he would probably be able to cope as he has had less to put up with than Mickey but would most likely be bailed anyway! I conclude that every little detail which Willy Russell has put into his well crafted book, and performance, has something to do with family and environment. Because of his own experiences he was able to complete the task of writing this book and include very graphic details of how family and environment effects peoples everyday lives and opportunities.

Serviced Apartments On Beach Resorts Tourism Essay

Serviced Apartments On Beach Resorts Tourism Essay A preliminary model of business development factors was created from both literature review and interviews conducted with international serviced apartment operators in Singapore. Subsequently, the model was being tested in a case study visit to Pattaya. The field study encompassed observations, interviews with government officials, serviced apartment operators and facilities operators. Through these modes of information gathering, the pilot model of business development factors was modified. A post model was drawn up to present the final list of business development factors, as well as three other complementary factors which affect the setting up of serviced apartments indirectly. Primary findings include the importance of extended stay markets, sources of expatriates, a viable and thriving tourist market, good transport connectivity, availability of facilities, proactive government support, high level of security and safety, warm and stable climate as well as affordability of the location. The future development of serviced apartments on beach resorts is also explored to include the possibility of venture into timesharing, vacation club, fractional property ownership or hybrids of the above mentioned. The history of beach resorts, or seaside resorts, dates back to Great Britain in the mid 18th century. Back then, visitors often went to beach resorts for their fashionable practice of sunbathing in a belief that it will help in disease treatment (The great British seaside resort: a brief history, 2009). However, times have changed and this trend has shifted from Europe to Asia Pacific. Hobson (1994) identified that future growth in the Asia Pacific region will be focused on the expansion of resort-type destinations, particularly in countries such as Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. With the development of beach resorts in Asia Pacific, accommodation has changed within different stages of development, as reflected in the Beach Resort Model (Smith, 1991). Serviced apartments are one of the newer accommodation types found on beach resorts, arising from the needs of modern travellers such as expatriates who are seeking an extended stay in a location, and families who intend to stay in a location for a longer holiday. As few studies have been done on serviced apartments on beach resorts, a case study on Pattaya beach resort was done to better comprehend the business development characteristics for establishing serviced apartments there. Objectives This paper firstly aims to provide insights on the current growth and penetration of serviced apartments on beach resorts. Secondly, it seeks to recommend a model of business development factors that lead to the growth of serviced apartments in Pattaya and also brings across how these factors may influence beach development and vice-versa. Finally, the implications of the business development factors to various stakeholders of serviced apartments are studied. Scope This paper is written in the context of beach resorts in Asia Pacific. Value of Research This paper provides knowledge about the different business development factors in contributing to the success of serviced apartments on beach resorts. Various stakeholders, especially developers and operators who are interested in establishing serviced apartments in Pattaya, will find this knowledge useful. For owners and operators of existing properties, this knowledge can enhance their management abilities. Limitations Being full-time undergraduates, this study was conducted on a part-time basis. As such, only one case study was conducted due to time and budget constraints. Additionally, the topic of serviced apartments on beach resorts is still relatively new and not widely explored. Therefore, there is limited information available. Furthermore, available publications mostly focused on the Western context, hence not specific to Asia Pacific. CHAPTER 2 LITERATURE REVIEW Serviced Apartments Definition While there is no standard definition of a serviced apartment, serviced apartments are typically considered to offer self-contained accommodation with additional services. The apartment will generally include a small kitchen or kitchenette, with a living room in addition to the bedroom(s), or a studio bedroom (Foxley, 2001). Apartments are cleaned weekly and more often if client prefers, and a round-the-clock reception desk for queries and advice is usually available (Collins, 2007). The appeal of serviced apartments is that they offer the comfort and facilities of a hotel, with the privacy and facilities of home (Foxley, 2001). In addition, it is a cost-effective accommodation solution as guests staying for longer periods of 7 nights or more will normally benefit from a reduced price per night (The Association of Serviced Apartment Providers, 2009).  Globally, serviced apartments are sometimes referred to as serviced residences, condotels, extended stay hotels, and the like (Servi ced Apartments Association Singapore, 2005). Target Segments With changing work practices and increased globalisation of business, business executives are increasingly required to work away from home on a short to medium term basis (Foxley, 2001). Hence, serviced apartments provide the perfect solution for this group of professionals, who form the primary segment for serviced apartments. With a relatively long stay away from home, these business executives seek more space and a friendly home-from-home feel (Fearis, 2006). Besides business travellers, leisure markets with an extended stay intention are also targeted by serviced apartment operators (Harris, 2008). Greater international leisure travel and a growing trend towards taking extended breaks between jobs, vacations and working-holidays are also resulting in the demand for temporary accommodation (Foxley, 2001). Families form an integral part of the leisure market as the space and facilities serviced apartments offer suits their needs. Current Trends and Growth Serviced apartments business has been growing at 15-20% annually compared to a modest 6-8% notched by hotels (Choudhury, 2009). According to STR Global, demand for extended-stay accommodation had been growing by 4.9% in 2004, the fastest rate since 2000, and surpassing the 4.6% jump reported for the overall hotel industry (Ligos, 2005). One key driver for this trend is tight corporate budgets. The recent global economic turmoil forced many companies to reduce their travel expenses in an attempt to minimise costs, allowing serviced apartment operators to ride on this by matching limited budgets with competitive prices (Chinmaneevong, 2009). This was reflected in Asia, where demand for serviced apartments remains high despite the crisis (Harris, 2008). The increase in supply of serviced apartments is further bolstered by the predicted continuous growth in global business travel, with Asia Pacific being poised for substantial growth between 2008 and 2013 (NBTA/IHS Global Insight, 2009). Another driver for this surge in popularity of extended-stay hotels is that more companies are willing to pay to relocate new employees (NBTA/IHS Global Insight, 2009), or send them for cross-border corporate training programmes (Foxley, 2001). Employers regard this as an investment due to the lack of qualified and skilled labour (NBTA/IHS Global Insight, 2009). The percentage of such willing employers has increased from 2007 to 2008 by 14% (Fryson, 2008). Locations The locations of serviced apartments will determine the mix of studios, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments (Geieregger Oehmichen, 2008), as well as the quality of accommodation and service (Foxley, 2001). Typically, serviced apartments are found in urbanised locations (Harris, 2008), where many multinational companies establish their headquarters or manufacturing plants. This facilitates movement of business executives in cities for meetings and conventions. However, serviced apartments can also be found along beaches. Beach Resort Development Beach resorts are defined as geographic areas offering a variety of facilities, services and activities which are orientated towards seaside recreation for the accommodation, use and enjoyment of visitors (Smith, 1991). Resort morphology goes through a predictable sequence of stages: from pre-tourism low through high-density development to an urbanised state (Andriotis, 2006; Smith, 1992). Barrett (1958) first noted the significance of the seafront in the structure and location of the commercial core, distinct zonation of accommodation types which expands in a semi-circular fashion inland from the commercial core and an elongation of settlement parallel to the coast. Stansfield (1970) later observed the development of the Recreational Business District (RBD) consisting mainly retail, food and beverage and entertainment services along the beach front. The Commercial Business District (CBD) is distinctly separated from the RBD and commonly found more inland. Pigram (1977) noted that improved public transport played a significant part in the arrangement and evolution of zones of land-use. In addition, recreational businesses and accommodation establishments tend to orientate themselves on major access routes to the resorts. Smith (1991) created the Beach Resort Model (BRM) which describes ad-hoc beach development from stages 1 to 8. The stages were determined by 6 categories of change morphology, physical, environmental, social, economic and political. Four coastal resorts in Asia Pacific were studied in developing the BRM; however, it can still be applied at large to other coastal resorts. BRM documents the start of a beach resort from a settlement in pre-tourism datum to a fully urbanised city resort. Accommodation Development on Beach Resorts Accommodation at resorts fall into two groups: traditional and self-catering (Stallibrass, 1980). Traditional accommodation includes personal service both in the private rooms and public areas while self-catering accommodation is self-contained, with its own kitchen facilities. Accommodations on beach resorts frequently start with second homes, followed by hotels which are the traditional accommodation (Smith, 1991). There would be structural changes to accommodation typically at the last two stages of the BRM, because resorts mature and narrow accommodation bases diversify to include significant components of all classes of accommodation (Smith, 1991). In addition, changes experienced when a beach matures, such as greater accessibility and new facilities, results in visitor profile changes (Strapp, 1988). This also affects the type of accommodation in demand. Multi-titled tourism accommodations (MTTA), which include serviced apartments, have been on the rise due to lower financial risks compared to single-titled properties, and the larger target market available due to its mixed use (tourists and residential) (Warnken, Guilding, Cassidy, 2008). MTTA complexes now represent an integral part of, or even dominate many popular seaside and ski resorts in many parts of the developed world (Warnken Guilding, 2009). Serviced Apartments on Beach Resorts In later stages of beach development, beach resorts may start to see year-round residency. The area could become more of a residential community with people staying well past the traditional tourist season (Strapp, 1988). Anecdotal evidence suggests an increase in demand for self-catering short holidays (long weekends up to one week) amongst young families and self-catering accommodation for increasingly wealthy retirees (Warnken et al., 2008). Together with increased demand for accommodation, suppliers are encouraged to add higher quality infrastructure typified by a shift from inexpensive motels to resort apartments such as serviced apartments (Prideaux, 2000). Majority of internet accommodation search engines for major destinations returned listings with MTTA-style complexes (Warnken et al., 2008), and these include serviced apartments. Reasons which could have spurred the establishment of serviced apartments on beach resorts encompass the following: Presence of an expatriate market working in nearby industrial hubs requiring temporary accommodation (Appendix A, B C) Presence of a retired silver-haired market moving to beach resorts during winter months in order to stay in warmer climates (Foster Murphy, 1991; Williams, King, Warnes, Patterson, 2000) Transport connectivity for convenient access to the beach resort (Appendix C) Top-notch facilities such as schools, medical care and entertainment (Appendix B) Serviced Apartments on Beach Resorts in Asia Pacific Serviced apartments were the fastest growing segment of the tourist accommodation sector in Australia during the late 1990s (Foxley, 2001). The number of serviced apartment properties in Gold Coast has been increasing over the past few years. In 1998, the number of serviced apartment guest rooms was 3,180 (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 1999), while in 2007, this number was 5,371 (BusinessGC, 2007). In the year ended June 2009, serviced apartments saw the strongest increase in establishments (0.9%) and room nights available (2.4%) out of all accommodation types, while the motel and hotel sector experienced a contraction of 4.7% and 6.1% respectively in number of establishments (Tourism Queensland, 2009). Currently, here are not many major international operators located on beach resorts in Asia Pacific. Some international operators feel that there are opportunities for serviced apartments to be located on beach resorts in the region. With news releases indicating the plans of Ascott and Oakwood to enter Pattaya, Thailand (The Ascott Limited, 2005; Viboonchart, 2009), it suggests that development of serviced apartments on beach resorts in other parts of Asia Pacific is gaining momentum. Currently, Frasers Hospitality already has a property in Pattaya named Fraser Resort Pattaya. CHAPTER 3 PROPOSED MODEL OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT FACTORS FOR ESTABLISHING SERVICED APARTMENTS ON BEACH RESORTS The role of the market has not been the main focus in existing research for the development of beach resorts. The following section takes a closer look at market conditions and operation of the supply side in spurring beach resort development, specifically the development of accommodation to include serviced apartments. The three most important stakeholders in a beach resorts are guests (who are the main cause for induced development); hosts (who by supporting development and by being involved in tourism contribute to the success of a destination); and politics (which influence overall development) (Andriotis, 2006). As such, the factors which are considered below are greatly influenced by characteristics of these three stakeholders. Industrial areas and city centres Relocation of corporate personnel would generate demand for serviced apartments. For beach resorts, there would usually be a presence of expatriates if there are nearby industrial areas and busy city centres (Appendix A C). Moreover, coastal areas are emerging as major centres of economic activity and new powerhouses of tourism interest (Prideaux, 2009), possibly bringing in an expatriate market. Viable and thriving tourist market During weekends, serviced apartments target leisure travellers to fill rooms. This is supported by Foxleys (2001) observation of a trend amongst the international leisure travellers to take extended breaks. In addition, there is seemingly an increase in demand for self-catering short holidays amongst young families (Warnken et al., 2008). Hence, a viable tourist market should also be present for serviced apartments to tap on. Medical tourism Medical tourism has grown rapidly in the past decade (Connell, 2006). People travel long distances overseas to obtain medical, dental, and surgical care while simultaneously being holidaymakers. Reasons for the growth of this niche tourism are high costs of treatment in developed countries, long waiting lists, relative affordability of air travel, and favourable exchange rates (Connell, 2006). Medical tourism has grown in Thailand who deliberately linked medical care to tourism, thus boosting beaches attractions (Connell, 2006). The Phuket Health and Travel website states that it aims to combine health and holiday aspects of travel. Their health and holiday package could include hotel accommodation, pre-doctor appointment, sightseeing, island tours and night entertainment attraction bookings (Phuket Health Travel, 2009). As medical tourism gains popularity, operators may establish serviced apartments next to large hospitals to cater to this kind of demand (Sharma, 2005). Transport Connectivity Transport access to the resort is likely a key determinant of the resorts rate and size of growth. Kim (1998) mentioned that the assessment of tourism potential would place great emphasis on transport communications and general access to the area. As accessibility improves through new road, rail, sea and air services, new and more distant markets will become accessible (Prideaux, 2000). In addition, a good transport system is essential in bringing customers to the apartments doorsteps, and bringing customers to their destinations in the day. Facilities Guests of serviced apartments require nearby facilities for basic living essentials and recreational activities. Recreational activities include sports, shopping and entertainment (Prideaux, 2000), while basic essentials encompass healthcare and educational institutions. Healthcare and educational institutions are especially important for expatriates who have brought their families along when they are relocated by their companies (Appendix B). Political aspects Government policies can hasten the development of beach resorts (Prideaux, 2000) and also implement favourable conditions to boost tourism which potentially encourages serviced apartment establishments due to healthy tourist market prospects. National Tourism Organizations are also responsible in wooing tourists to the country. Ooi (2002) discovered that the political environment can have a significant influence on the image of the destination and tourism promotion policies. Safety and Security Safety is a major concern for tourists (Kim, 1998). Davidoff and Davidoff (1994) concluded that people would not travel to a location believed to be unsafe. Given that expatriates can stay up to a considerable period of time and may bring their families along when they are relocated, security for the family and self becomes an important concern. A summary of the above mentioned factors are integrated into the table below: Table 1.png The factors identified above can possibly shape future growth and development of beach resorts. Additionally, they also aid in future planning by recognising supply short-comings and predicting rising needs of the market, allowing sufficient time and space for operators to cater to these trends. CHAPTER 4 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY Case Selection The case method (Yin, 2003) is used in this study and the unit of research is a beach resort. The case selected in this study is Pattaya. In Pattaya, there is one major international serviced apartment operator, Fraser Resort Pattaya. Interestingly, a huge industrial development is located east of Pattaya. As a developed beach resort, Pattaya has good facilities and infrastructure in place to support its tourism activities. These indicators provide an inkling of the entry of more international operators eventually, thus providing adequate data for this study. Data Collection Formal interviews were conducted with major international serviced apartment operators headquartered in Singapore to gain a better understanding of the industry. A preliminary model was created through book, journal and internet research, newspapers and interviews in Singapore. A field study to Pattaya was then conducted from 8 to 11 December 2009 to collect primary data. Details of the site visit are: Interview with an international service apartment operator several local operators an official from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Chon Buri (Pattaya) international hospitals Physical observations of the facilities, establishments and general environment Subsequently, a post-trip model was constructed. This is a refined and condensed model after further knowledge gathered through the field study. Complementary factors which contribute to the listed factors are also identified to provide a wider perspective. CHAPTER 5 PATTAYA CASE A seaside province located on Thailands east coast, Chon Buris scenic views earns itself a reputation as one of Thailands popular sanctuaries for holiday retreats. Situated near the city of Chon Buri is Pattaya, a holiday paradise for fun-lovers. As Thailands premier beach resort that attracts a large number of tourists, Pattaya is charmed by a tropical resort atmosphere suitable for total relaxation. Besides its blessed natural beauty, Pattaya also offers a wide range of water sports and vibrant nightlife (TAT, 2006). Today, it boasts the unique distinction of a beach resort with a city status (TAT, 2007). 5.1 Accommodation Development in Pattaya The increasing influx of visitors over the years has stimulated changes in accommodation types. Most of the large hotel chains, resorts and serviced apartments are located in two regions north and central of Pattaya city. In the stretch right in front of the coastline, the smaller hotels or budget accommodations are found. This stretch is also the region where there are many restaurants, bars, pubs and a number of shopping malls spread out along the coastline. Although most of the serviced apartments are in the north and central region of the city, there are still a few serviced apartments located in the beachfront stretch (Appendix T). This occurrence as described by the BRM model is due to development saturation of the original beachfront strip causing subsequent accommodation to develop along the same strip but extending further inland (Smith, 1991). As serviced apartments are only recently developed on beach resorts, their locations are thus further away from the beachfront. In addition, beachfront region is considered to be nosier with activities ongoing till late. Since serviced apartments are targeted at long-term stay visitors who might want a more conducive environment, serviced apartment operators have thus established the apartments away from the noise. The contrasting location of some serviced apartments in the beachfront stretch is due to their smaller sizes and absence of a serviced apartments full capacities. CHAPTER 6 CASE EVALUATION The business development factors in the preliminary model are assessed against observations and interviews conducted at Pattaya. Further findings are also indicated. Evaluation of Preliminary Model Industrial Areas and City Centres As business executives are the primary target audience of serviced apartments, the existence of sources generating expatriates, such as industrial areas and city centres, are vital. In Pattaya, industrial areas are of notable importance as a driving factor for guests in serviced apartments. Chon Buri province is located in the industrial development region of Thailand, a short drive to southeast Bangkok (Tanvatanakul, Saowakontha, Amado, Vicente, 2007). Business executives who work in both Bangkok city and Chon Buri are thus able to commute to Pattaya quickly. Besides Chon Buri, Rayong province also houses several industrial areas and is approximately 220 kilometres from Bangkok (Bangkoksite.com, 2009). Five main industrial areas (Appendix N) situated in both provinces Laem Chabang , Map Ta Phut, Eastern Seaboard, Amata City and Pinthong, are sources of the expatriate market who seek accommodation in Pattaya city (Appendix I). Some local operators revealed that the bulk of their customers come from the industrial areas. The close proximity to both provinces makes Pattaya a preferred place for many expatriates to stay in (Thailand Guru, 2007). This spells business opportunities for serviced apartments. Positive statistics draw links to a possibly burgeoning expatriate market coming to Pattaya, as reflected in the rise in tourist arrivals in Pattaya for business activities over the years. Arrivals based on business purposes increased by 38.08% from 349,010 in 2006 to 481,916 in 2007 (TAT, 2007). In addition, the proportion of these business arrivals out of total arrivals also increased from 5.7% in 2006 to 7.21% in 2007. For conference/seminar purpose, figures rose from 95,887 in 2006 to 260,695 in 2007 (TAT, 2007), representing an astounding 171.9% increase. The proportion of this conference/seminar-driven tourism out of total tourist arrivals increased from 1.6% in 2006 to 3.9% in 2007. These trends may further spur the growth of serviced apartments in Pattaya. Viable and Thriving Tourist Market Apart from business travellers, serviced apartments may also serve leisure travellers who are on extended holidays. A promising inflow of tourists is likely to affect the growth of serviced apartments. The following section assesses the tourist market in Pattaya based on figures retrieved from TAT for years 2005 to 2007. TAT indicated that figures for 2008 and 2009 are not available. Tourist Arrivals Table 2.png Table 3.png Figure 1. Internal Tourism in Pattaya Tourist arrivals have been increasing steadily from 1997 to 2007. It increased by 14.55% in 2006 as compared to 2005, to a decade high of 6,680,658 in 2007 (+9.25%). The main purpose of visits has been for leisure, which comprises about 83 90% of tourist arrivals in years 2005 to 2007. This shows a thriving leisure tourist market. Table 4.png Interviews conducted with local serviced apartment operators revealed that their main customers are Europeans. Figures have shown that out of the 4,481,630 international travellers who visited Pattaya in 2007, 40% are Europeans. As Pattaya remains a popular beach resort destination for European visitors, the European tourist market in Pattaya will either maintain its size or expand in the future. Local operators also mentioned that these Europeans customers can stay for long periods ranging from a few weeks to a few months. Aside from Europeans, Pattaya is also a popular destination amongst Asians due to its location and reputation for providing a beach getaway. A dip in figures is expected for 2008 and 2009 due to the global economic recession and H1N1 pandemic. Other sources suggest that following a 5% increase in tourism numbers in the first half of 2008, international tourism began to slow down rapidly in mid-2008, reflecting rising oil and commodity prices, volatile exchange rate fluctuations, political instability, and the impact of the global economic recession (UNWTO 2008; UNWTO 2009a; UNWTO 2009b). However, as the world emerges from the recession, tourism in Pattaya is expected to pick up in late 2009 or early 2010 onwards. Tourist Receipts Table 5.png Accommodation expenses generally comprise the bulk of tourist expenditure. Furthermore, tourist receipts have been increasing from 48,522.13 million baht in 2005 to 59,347.61 million baht in 2007. As both tourist arrivals and expenditure increase, this means more business opportunities for serviced apartments in Pattaya. Average Length of Stay of Tourists Table 6.png The average length of stay has decreased from 3.41 days in 2005 to 3.13 days in 2007. However, local operators revealed that the average length of stay ranges from a few days to a few months for leisure travellers, while the average length of stay can be up to 2 years for expatriates. Major Attractions and Future Plans The two principal beaches are Pattaya and Jomtien beach, which offer a range of recreational and entertainment services. Aside from the beaches which saw 61% and 31% of total tourist arrivals in 2007 respectively, other key attractions include bars and nightclubs (30%) and shopping malls (13%) (TAT, 2007). As beaches remain the most visited place in Pattaya, plans are proposed for a large new pier and marina for sporting and leisure craft on Pattaya beach (Channgam, 2008), rejuvenating the beach and thus keeping it attractive for tourists. In addition, the Pattayas mayor wishes to shift the image of Pattaya away from a red-light district to one full of other exciting activities such as a possible indoor ski resort which could attract more international business chains and induce more long-stay guests (Appendix J). Hence a viable and thriving leisure tourist market helps to raise occupancy rates in serviced apartments. Nonetheless, the tourism industry needs to keep improving to sustain or develop new interest in tourists. Medical Tourism The presence of international hospitals may stimulate the establishment of serviced apartments next to them to cater to potential medical tourists who stay for long-term treatment. Three international hospitals dominate Pattaya, namely Bangkok Pattaya Hospital (BPH), Pattaya International Hospital (PIH) and Pattaya Memorial Hospital (PMH). Of these hospitals, only BPH is programme certified by Joint Commission International. It also has 400 beds, having the ability to accommodate more patients as compared to PIHs 70 beds, and PMHs 80 inpatient beds. However, from interviews with the hospitals, it was revealed that patients are largely locals and to a lesser extent, international visitors. Medical tourists are hence an insignificant contributing long-stay market. Nonetheless, it may grow in significance in the future. Transport Connectivity Favourable transport connectivity helps visitors and locals to orientate their way to and around Pattaya easily, a basic essential factor required to draw guests to stay. Features affecting transport connectivity are analysed below: Distance and time to airport Located approximately 110 kilometres away, Pattaya has close proximity to Suvarnabhumi Airport, with travelling time around 1.5 to 2 hours. This relatively short distance and travelling time makes Pattaya a desired city to visit. Modes of transport to Pattaya Visitors can access Pattaya conveniently via air, rail, taxi, coach or local buses. Modes of transport around Pattaya The most commonly seen transport is the Baht Buses, which are transformed from pickup trucks. Other forms of transport include motorcycle, bicycle, car, local bus and taxi. Local buses, however, are not easy to spot and thus often underutilised. Road InterconnectivityC:UsersLoyAppDataLocalTempRoad Map.jpg Figure 2. Pattaya Road Map The road system can be complex and confusing for first-time visitors. However, after gaining familiarity, it is simpler to navigate around. From North to South, there are Beach Road (also known as First Road) which faces the sea, Pattaya Second Road and Pattaya Third Road. Beach Road is a one-way road which runs southwards, while Second Road runs northwards. These one-way roads pose inconvenience and a hassle to travel. In between these roads are smaller and busier streets which connect the three roads together. From East to West, there are the North Pattaya Road, Central Pattaya Ro

The European Neighbourhood Policy Politics Essay

The European Neighbourhood Policy Politics Essay Because of the big-bang enlargement to the East, in May 2004 the European Union acquired ten new member states and simultaneously several new neighbours. At about the same time, it began to flesh out a European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP) to make sure that the newly enlarged Union would be surrounded by a ring of friends.  [1]  Specifically, in March 2003 the Commission presented its Communication Wider Europe Neighbourhood: A new Framework for relations with our Eastern and Southern Neighbours,  [2]  followed by a Strategy Paper on the ENP in May 2004.  [3]   In general, the ENP is the EUs mechanism for ensuring the maintenance of shared values beyond its borders. In other words, it provides the EU with additional tools for fostering new neighbours. Its objectives like stability, prosperity and co-operation help the EU to develop a privileged relationship with its neighbours while it also offers many other advantages to them, building upon a mutual commitment with them. On the other hand, it must be underlined that the EU faces some daunting challenges in its relations with its neighbours. Because of this, not only the ENPs aim to bring some order to the EUs relations with its neighbours but also the effort to develop a privileged and mutual relationship between them, are prevented in a great extent. So, does the ENP really provide the suitable structure for dealing with the main challenges? This essay will first present and analyse the substance of the ENP. It will then scrutinize its results and, finally it will criticize and evaluate the ENP taking into consideration the invectives that it offers and the challenges that the EU faces in its relations with its neighbours. The substance of the ENP The ENP framework is proposed to the 16 of EUs closest neighbours Algeria, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Egypt, Georgia, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Moldova, Morocco, Occupied Palestinian Territory, Syria, Tunisia and Ukraine. Russia has its own special relationship with the EU and it is not part of the ENP. More precisely, the ENP was developed in 2004, with the objective of avoiding new dividing lines between the enlarged EU and its neighbours and instead strengthening the prosperity, stability and security of all.  [4]   The 2004 enlargement brought the EU closer to the east and as a result created an instant need to ensure that the wider neighbourhood was stable to avoid the risk of instability overflowing into the larger EU.  [5]  As the European Commission has noted: Existing differences in living standards across the Unions borders with its neighbours may be accentuated as a result of faster growth in the new Member States than in their external neighbours; common challenges in fields such as the environment, public health, and the prevention of and fight against organised crime will have to be addressed; efficient and secure border management will be essential both to protect our shared borders and to facilitate legitimate trade and passage.  [6]  Moreover, the enlargement fatigue was established and the EU wanted to fend off yet another round of enlargement. Hence, the ENP was launched to deal with all of these challenges.  [7]   The ENP also includes the countries of the southern Mediterranean, though the dividing line between the EU and these countries was not shifted with the 2004 enlargement, and the problems posed by those borders have long been a concern. The southern Mediterranean countries were included in the ENP to balance the EUs southern and eastern dimensions, responding to concerns of southern member and non-member states.  [8]   The ENP, which is primarily a bilateral policy between the EU and each partner country, is further enriched with regional and multilateral co-operation initiatives: the Eastern Partnership (launched in Prague in May 2009), the Union for the Mediterranean (the Euro-Mediterranean Partnership, formerly known as the Barcelona Process, re-launched in Paris in July 2008), and the Black Sea Synergy (launched in Kiev in February 2008).  [9]   The ENP is first and foremost an attempt to create good neighbours, who conform not only to EU values (democracy and human rights, rule of law, good governance, market economy principles and sustainable development) but also the EU standards and laws in specific economic and social areas. A secondary aspect of the ENP is to prevent the emergence of new dividing lines as mentioned earlier, through a variety of means including more cross-border cooperation.  [10]   Specifically, in attempting to stop the emergence of new dividing lines in Europe, the Commission has two broad approaches: firstly, to encourage and support financially the inclusion of the neighbours in European networks of all kinds such as transport, research and education, energy, environment, culture and so on and, secondly, to foster cross-border cooperation and specially concrete projects to link neighbouring regions across the EUs new border. The Commission is simplifying as well the funding of such programmes, which has been complicated.  [11]   In this point, it must be mentioned that, the ENP remains distinct from the process of enlargement. However, it does not prejudge for European neighbours how their relationship with the EU may develop in future in accordance with Treaty provisions. According to the ENP framework, the EU offers all but institutions to the neighbours: as much it can do without actually enlarging.  [12]   Plus, in early 2004 the Commission began preparing Actions Plans for the most advanced neighbours. The Action Plans are central to the ENP (12 of them were agreed) and they set out an agenda of political and economic reforms with short and medium-term priorities of 3 to 5 years. The ENP is not yet fully activated for Algeria, Belarus, Libya and Syria since those have not agreed Action Plans.  [13]   The Action Plans are supposed to be differentiated according to the various neighbours specific circumstances, and drawn up after held with each neighbour. Promoting joint ownership of the plans should better ensure that the neighbours will meet the objectives set out in them. Each country individually determines the nature and strength of its relationship with the EU.  [14]  In addition, other political objectives prominent in the Action Plans are cooperation in the fight against terrorism and on non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and ensuring international justice through support for the International Criminal Court.  [15]   Furthermore, from January 2007 the European Neighbourhood Policy and Strategic Partnership with Russian Federation are financed through a single instrument the European Neighbourhood and Partnership Instrument (ENPI). It is designed to target sustainable development and approximation to EU policies and standards supporting the agreed priorities in the ENP Action Plans, as well as Strategic Partnership with Russia. In detail, it encourages economic integration and political cooperation between the EU and the neighbours, promotes sustainable development and poverty reduction, and addresses security and stability challenges posed by geographical proximity to the EU.  [16]   The results of the ENP The ENP has shown that it offers a solid basis for strengthening ties between the EU and its neighbours. It has opened the policy to all eastern and southern neighbours who share EUs commitments to democracy, open society and economic prosperity. And, as countries go further down the reform path more possibilities (more financial support, integration with the EUs internal market, participation in the EUs policies and programmes) for closer cooperation with the EU open up to them.  [17]   Since the ENP policy was proposed, good progress has been made on developing and implementing the main instruments of the ENP the presentation of 12 Country Reports, the adoption of 12 ENP Action Plans, implementation and monitoring through relevant subcommittees, adoption of a new instrument (Neighbourhood Investment Facility -NIF) to better provide assistance to these countries in support of the objectives agreed in the Action Plans.  [18]   The NIF was established at the end of 2007 and it is a significant source of funding for the neighbourhood. The Facility funds projects of common interest focussing mainly on energy, environment and transport. A Governance Facility has been set up too. It provides additional support to countries that have made most progress in implementing governance reforms.  [19]   Moreover, for the Financial Framework 2007-2013, about à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬12 billion in EU funding are available to support partners reforms, an increase of 32% in real terms as compared to 2000-2006 Financial Framework. Until 31 December 2006, EU assistance to the countries of the ENP and to Russia was provided under various geographical programmes including TACIS (for eastern neighbours and Russia) and MEDA (for southern Mediterranean neighbours), as well as thematic programmes such as European Initiative for Democracy and Human Rights (EIDHR).  [20]   Additionally, new forms of technical assistance have been extended to ENP partners. A large number of twinning and Technical Assistance and Information Exchange (TAIEX) arrangements, is in place with countries across the neighbourhood.  [21]  Neighbourhood countries joined also the EUs programmes and agencies like the Competitiveness and Innovation Programme.  [22]   Furthermore, it must be stated that, to the east the reforming government of Moldova is being rewarded with generous aid. In the meantime, the EU has frozen assets and restricted visas for Belaruss leaders after they rigged elections and suppressed protests.  [23]  A border monitoring mission was also in place along the Moldovan-Ukraine border to help address the frozen conflict in Transnistria while an agreement on easier visa procedures for Ukrainian citizens and others was in the works.  [24]   In May 2011 the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and the European Commission suggested a new policy response to a changing EU neighbourhood based on more for more, less for less, a mutual accountability and a shared commitment to the universal values of human rights, democracy and the rule of law and involving a much higher level of differentiation.  [25]  New policys items are money, market access, and mobility. This approach has been authorized as well by the European Parliament and the European Council.  [26]   The Economist justified the new policy as follows: Policies should be better tailored for each neighbour. Europe cannot change geography, so it will have to deal with countries on its rim, democratic or autocratic. But in its circle of neighbours, it must always demonstrate that its best friends are the democrats.  [27]  Along this line, the EU responded to the Arab Spring and sent an obvious message of unity and support to the people of the southern Mediterranean. Moreover, it responded to EU eastern neighbours efforts towards closer political association and deeper economic integration.  [28]   The evaluation of the ENP Undoubtedly, the ENP should be seen as one of innovative efforts undertaken so far in the history of the European Communities external relations. This exposes it to a great deal of controversy in a vast diversity of opinions thereupon. Indeed, the ENP has been evaluated in most different ways, from very critical in which it is seen as an ineffective project, to statements saying that this is one of the EUs foreign policy that really works correctly. If we take into account the aforementioned results of the ENP, we realize that it does promote good relations between the enlarged EU and its neighbours. It definitely has an interest in promoting prosperity, stability and security among its neighbours by working with them to support their transition. But what about the group of people who support that the ENP is an ineffective project? Why do they strongly believe it? Those who believe that the ENP is an inadequate policy claim that the EU has to deal with three serious challenges: that of confronting the ghost of enlargement, which haunts EU relations with its neighbours, the challenge of influencing positively the serious problems distressing several of those neighbours and, that of building a neighbourhood with some degree of cohesiveness.  [29]   The unavoidable consequences of admitting some countries to full membership of the EU and excluding others produce insiders and outsiders. This dimension inside the ENP, make awkward bedfellows, especially given that east European countries are reluctantly seen as potential member states while the Mediterranean countries have not been considered appropriate for EU membership.  [30]  The hope of EU membership is a major incentive for reform amongst members. As it has already been mentioned Europes neighbourhood policy remains distinct from the process of enlargement as it offers countries everything but institutions. And this does not mean as stated earlier that neighbourhood countries have no chance of being official members of the EU. For instance, Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine could be considered as candidates for EU membership at some point in the future. All have experienced a democratization process and have moved away from the direct political influence of the Russian Federation.  [31]   Nevertheless, these states represent a low priority on the enlargement agenda because of the likely impact on the EUs budget, the poor state of their economies, and the need to strengthen political reforms at home before considering accession. So, there is a large development gap between the EU and some potential members, which makes meeting membership conditions increasingly difficult. Thus, the EU is becoming more diverse.  [32]   The second challenge facing the EU is how to deal with countries of concern. Generally speaking, the challenges facing EUs neighbours often go beyond their borders. It is a fact that, the partner countries are faced with poverty, unemployment, mixed economic performance, corruption, weak governance and frozen conflicts in certain regions.  [33]   Countries of concern include Belarus and Libya, but several other neighbours like Syria are also problematic mainly because of their lack of respect for human rights and democratic principles and, because of security concerns. Even more, the list of sites of conflict in the Middle East is tragically long. In this point, someone could wonder if the ENP gives the EU more leverage or more possibilities to exercise influence in these cases than it had before.  [34]   For fostering fundamental reform in the neighbours, Action Plans should provide a real incentive for reform. The truth is that, clear benchmarks linked to clear benefits are being absent in Action Plans. There has to be a real effort so that Action Plans lend a serious concentration to the ENP and enable the focus to be on specific, measurable and time-bound objectives.  [35]   The third challenge for the EU is how to connect the dissimilar countries and regions included in the ENP. The ENP is a policy based on strengthening the bilateral links between the EU and each neighbour a policy for neighbours rather than a neighbourhood policy. And while there is an undeniable need for reform in the neighbours, there is also an undeniable need for all the neighbours to cooperate with one another. In relation to this statement, we realize that strengthening the multilateral and/or regional elements in the ENP would help to tackle not just the cross-border problems that affect the EU but also those that affect all of the neighbours.  [36]   Additionally, some analysts consider that the new policy to a changing EU neighbourhood after the emergence of the Arab Spring, based on more economic benefits for more democracy with the new policys items (money, market access, and mobility) is not bold enough to make an important difference.  [37]  Regarding money, at times of austerity there is no more for foreign-policy aims while concerning markets, many north African countries already enjoy free trade in industrial goods, and the southern Europeans want to restrict some agricultural products. As for mobility, with anti-immigrant parties gaining ground, few governments are ready to open up to north Africans.  [38]   There is little doubt that the Arab awakening was a priority for European foreign policy in 2011. Europe used a collection of instruments, including active diplomacy, special envoys, sanctions and military action. However, its technocratic response fell dramatically short of Marshall Plan for which some initially called.  [39]  Plus, the Arab Spring has shed light on the close personal and business ties between governing elites in EU member states and their Mediterranean counterparts. For example, Frances Foreign Minister Michà ¨le Alliot-Marie was forced to resign due to public outrage over her links to the ousted Ben Ali regime in Tunisia.  [40]  In 2008, the EU tried to negotiate an association agreement with Libya and earmarked à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬60mln in ENPI funds to the country over the 2011-2013 period.  [41]   To sum up, in the south the promotion of democracy and the rule of law has been an illusion. Arab neighbours have no the ambition of returning back to Europe while eastern neighbours, know that the EU is not ready to expand beyond the Balkans. Without the lure of membership, the EU struggles to find effective foreign-policy. Conclusions The ENP is a useful policy promoting stability, prosperity, welfare and security in the post 2004 era between the EU and its neighbours. But is the ENP sufficient to deal with the aforesaid challenges? This challenge is undoubtedly enormous and requires more ambitious policy response. Not only should the ghost of enlargement be vanished but also the serious problems distressing several of the neighbours. Furthermore, the EU should try hard through the ENP to build a neighbourhood with some degree of cohesiveness. As we all know, on 12 October 2012 the Nobel Prize Committee decided to award the 2012 Nobel Peace Prize to the European Union for over six decades contribution to the advancement of peace and reconciliation, democracy and human rights in Europe. Although the EU is at present undergoing serious economic difficulties and considerable social unrest the award served as a reminder that the EU had largely brought peace to a continent which tore itself apart in two world wars in which tens of millions died. According to this, the EU should focus on what it sees as the EUs most important result: the successful struggle for peace and reconciliation and for democracy and human rights. No one would disagree that one way for the EU to enforce its struggles for achieving the aforementioned goals, is through the ENP. It is an ambitious policy, which has the potential to make an enormous difference to the prosperity and stability of both the EU and its neighbours. So, the EU has to strengthen the ENP in order to provide concrete and credible incentives for reform. Hence, a strong ENP has to be set out. The vision contained in the ENP the real and mutual relation of EU to its nearest friends and vice versa should be a reality for the stability and wealth of both.

Practicing Theory :: essays research papers

Putting Theories into Practice In politics, humans seem to be very contradictory towards one another. Many situations allot for disagreement as well as interesting discussions and conversations. I was watching the presidential debate when my girlfriend started shedding her opinion, which I didn’t quite agree with. It was as if she ignored what one candidate said and believed the other because there was a bias in her thinking. That, along with what each candidate was saying was causing sway in my opinion and I felt discomfort. I chose Cognitive Dissonance Theory for this incident due to the conflicting ideas going on in my head during this situation. When she started making biased comments about whatever a particular candidate said, I had conflicting thoughts that go right along with the dissonant relationship aspect of the Cognitive Dissonance Theory. I thought that in order to make a decision you need to know everything that happens not just bits and pieces of it, but what conflicted with this thought was her biased comment that was based solely on one statement. What I was after to make my own thoughts and judgments agreeable was to arrive at some level of consistent thoughts within myself as to how I can alleviate the tension. The reason for this dissonance was because of outside sources that led me to take action that caused an effect. But after the discussion with the other person I found myself trying to achieve consonance and reduce dissonance because of my discomfort. In essence I was trying to co nvince myself that I should try and find some compromise with what she was saying so the conflict would cease to exist. In order for the conflict to stop and cope with the dissonance my attitude had to change, which led me after the conversation to seek out selective exposure. This meant I had to seek information not present at that time to help reduce the dissonance within myself and stop the arguing between her and myself. From what she was saying I also sought out a different type of perception, selective interpretation. From the ambiguous information she offered I tried to compromise and make some of it consistent to my own thoughts that could help further to end the dissonance. The ultimate tactic I used that I wasn’t even aware of until I saw this term was minimal justification. The minimal incentive given in this case was just me saying, â€Å"I’m not saying you are wrong, I just want you to see the whole picture before you pass judgment.

Distance Learning Essay -- Essays Papers

Distance Learning Many institutions of higher education are experimenting with changes having to do with class offerings. According to Keegan, â€Å"It is not easy to define distance education.† An early descriptive definition states that distance education learners are usually taught as individuals and not in groups (Rossman 8). Distance education can be thought of as instructional delivery that does not constrain the student to be physically present in the same location as the instructor. Distance learning is a newly emerging trend that many institutions are taking advantage of. At the present, this type of learning is primarily used for those people who cannot attend courses on a campus. Distance learning is just another sign pointing towards the emergence of a worldwide electronic university. Through these programs, institutions are creating truly â€Å"global classrooms.† In today’s technologically advanced society, the term â€Å"classroom† has a new meaning. In distance learning, one’s classroom could consist of a television classroom, a â€Å"virtual classroom,† a teleconference, a â€Å"virtual reality† classroom, and others. The traditional classroom is being substituted for classrooms that accommodate each different distance-learning program. Virtual classrooms take place on the computer and can be accessed anywhere. Teleconferences take place on the telephone. On-line courses are held anytime on-line, which makes it easier for the student taking the course. Another form of distance education is visual learning, which includes using video systems and broadcast television. Television broadcasts are used for one-way video and audio presentations. Radios and tapes can also allow the student to listen to lectures one way and audio-... ... to the educating of today’s society. Distance learning is thought to be able to increase global unity, create an easier, less stressful way to receive a quality education, and overall create a greater passion for learning(Rossman 138). Works Cited Hodgson, Vivien E, Sarah J. Mann, and Robin Snell. Beyond Distance Teaching-Towards Open Learning. Philadelphia:Open University Press, 1987. 1-181. Kennedy, Kristen. â€Å"Intellectual Property in the Digital Age.† Technology and Learning 22(2001):8 Porter, Lynette R. Creating the Virtual Classroom:Distance Learning with the Internet. New York: John Wiley and Sons Inc.,1997.1-83 Rossman,Parker.The Emerging Worldwide Electronic University:Information Age Global Higher Education.Connecticut:Greenwood Press, 1992.1-89. â€Å"The Army Marches Into Online Learning.† Black Issues in Higher Education 24(2001):17

Applying Ethical Frameworks in Practice Essay

Patient confidentiality is essential in developing a trusting relationship between a healthcare worker and the patient. Confidentiality means that the patients personal and medical information that is given to a health care provider will not be disclosed to others unless the patient has given permission for the information to be released (â€Å"Confidentiality,† 2014). There are situations where a breach of confidentiality may occur and is acceptable. These situations include information when an individual has been diagnosed with a specific disease, such as Tuberculosis or an injury, such as a gunshot wound. Other situations may be when there is evidence that the patient may cause harm to himself or others. The nursing profession is one that promises to abide by the laws of patient confidentiality. Protecting the patients’ rights is guaranteed by both common law-which is the decisions of the courts, and statute law-which is passed by Parliament (O’Dowd, 2014). This commitment to the patient helps preserve high quality care for that patient, as disclosing important information between the patient and nurse, is essential for the patient to receive the appropriate medical care. Patients put their trust into the nurse, as they expect the nurse to respect their privacy, when that trust is broken, the relationship between the nurse and patient declines. Losing the trust is one of the ethical implications that may occur when a breach of confidentiality occurs. Other ethical implications that can occur are disciplinary action by the employer, disciplinary proceedings under the health professionals regulatory statute, and a fine may be imposed (â€Å"Patient Confidentiality,† n. d. ). Pamela G. Nathanson wrote an article in reference to an episode of NBC’s ER which reveals an ER nurse who faces an ethical dilemma in regards to patient confidentiality. The ER nurse has made a promise to two fourteen year old girls that she will not disclose any medical information to their parents. The girls trust the nurse that she will keep her promise; therefore, they disclose their personal concerns. One of the girls test positive for a serious medical condition, at this point, the ER nurse has reached an ethical dilemma. She needs to make an ethical decision as to whether or not she should disclose the information to the young girls’ parents. In this situation, the ER nurse has made the appropriate decision to have a breach of confidentiality and inform the young girls’ parents of their daughters’ medical condition. In understanding ethical theories and/or ethical principles, this has assisted the ER nurse in making the correct decision. Ethical theories and principles guide individuals in making decisions. When using ethical theories to determine an appropriate decision, the theory must be directed towards a common set of goals, which are ethical principles (Rainbow, 2002). The ER nurses’ goal is to ensure that the young girl receives the appropriate medical treatment for her condition. Ethical principles that can relate to this situation are beneficence, which is to do what is good and least harm, which is to do the least harm to an individual. In looking at ethical theories, using Deontology and Utilitarianism is useful in that Deontology relates to the nurses obligations and duties to disclose the information and Utilitarianism relates to being able to foresee the consequences of actions if the information is not disclosed. A utilitarian looks at what is the greatest benefit for that individual (Rainbow, 2002). When an individual is confronted with an ethical dilemma, using an ethical-decision making model is useful. This type of model assists in breaking down all the facts and individuals’ involved in the dilemma and helps to develop possible alternatives to address the dilemma. It guides ones’ decision making from an objective, cognitive perspective, rather than an emotional perspective (â€Å"GCU,† 2014). In the article discussed, the ER nurse can incorporate an ethical-decision making model to make the most appropriate decision. First is to address who is involved and what the actual dilemma entails and identify the ethical dilemma. Next, she can look at the situation at hand and determine how her own personal values see this issue and determine what alternatives can be used to help resolve the dilemma. Once the alternative actions are decided upon, the ER nurse can look at each one and decide if they conflict with her own personal values. If so, she may need to get another health care provider involved to eliminate any biases. In the article, the nurse is advised by the physician that the girls’ parents need to be informed; therefore, guiding her into making the appropriate decision. The next step is to prioritize the acceptable alternatives from most acceptable to least acceptable. The alternatives in the articles dilemma can be 1). The young girl informing her parents herself. The implication with this alternative is that most likely she will not inform her parents. 2). The nurse informing the parents of their daughters medical condition. The implication here is that the patient will not feel she can trust the nurse; however, by choosing this alternative, the decision is in the best interest of the child and 3). Not disclosing information at all. The implications here is that the minor child will not receive the appropriate care needed which will cause further harm. The significance in using this model is to ensure that the appropriate ethical decision is made. Ethics committees are available as well to assist and guide when ethical dilemmas occur. In regards to the article, an ethical committee can discuss the alternatives and make recommendations, still keeping in line with the patients’ rights. These committees focus on issues of morality, patient autonomy, legislation, and states’ interest. They have a significant influence on decision making and the power to influence a judge or jury (â€Å"GCU,† 2014). Ethical dilemmas will always be in a health care professionals’ daily work. Using ethical theories and principles will guide health care professionals in making the most appropriate ethical decision. Following these theories and principles will ensure that the patient is receiving the best quality care that they deserve. References