Auditor’s Legal Liability to Third Parties

Increased liability of other professionals to nonprofits users of their services II. Lack of fairness of Imposing the burden of economic loss on Innocent financial statement users Ill. Assumption that expanded liability will cause auditors to improve their auditing procedures v. Auditors have the ability to obtain liability insurance v. Increased audit and insurance premium costs can be passed on to the client 4. Reasonably foreseeable third parties (used by MS, NJ, WI) a. Ore expansive definition regarding the legal standing of who can sue the auditor I. Allows broader class of (stockholders or stockbrokers, for example) might say regarding accuracy of financial reports Reflection While WI, NJ and MS have a very expansive definition of who ought to be able to have legal standing to sue auditors for audit reports of financial statements if the auditor appears to have been negligent or committed fraud, there must be some balance struck to protect both auditors and third parties that m ay rely on audit reports.The Restatement Standard, as used by most states, appears to strike that balance, holding auditors accountable for potential negligence or fraud, while still allowing them to obtain liability insurance to limit their exposure to legal claims. Chapter 20, problem 20-27 a. What elements must be established by Musk to support a cause of action based on negligence?Since state law applicable to this action follows the Ultramarine decision, which sets the standard for auditor negligent liability by a third party according to priority, in which a contract or specific agreement exists between the two parties, Musk would need to show that a contract existed between Apple and Musk to have legal standing to bring a suit against Apple. B. What elements must be established by Musk to support a cause of action based on a Rule lob-5 violation?If Musk has established that it can sue under Section II(b), it must prove the following: 1 . Apple made a material, factual misrepr esentation or omission 2. Musk relied on the financial statements . Musk suffered damages as a result of reliance on the financial statements 4. Sciences (Apple acted with intent to deceive, defraud, or with knowledge of a false representation) c.Is Apple's assertion regarding lack of priority correct with regard to Musk's causes of action for negligence or fraud? Regarding negligence, Apple's assertion regarding Musk's lack of priority is correct according to the standard set by the Ultramarine decision. There was no contract between Apple and Musk. However, regarding the fraud charge, the priority requirement does not apply. If the plaintiff an show gross negligence or fraud, the auditor can still be held liable for damages.As stated in the problem, Apple was aware that Astor was selling inventory at prices substantially less than cost, so it should have known that the inventory valuation provided by Astor should not have been trusted, and should have conducted its own valuation o f inventory. While the application of the Ultramarine decision will make it difficult to hold Apple liable for negligence under common law, that decision does not hold weight when considering fraud or gross negligence. In that case, Musk may be able to collect damages on the basis of Rule bib-5.

Wolf and Moose Predator Prey Relationship in Isle Royal

Service director Stephen Matter inspected the Island, deeming it fit for a national park. In a report on the field study of the potential for Isle Royals as a national park, Adolph Muriel wrote: â€Å"To administer Isle Royals as a wilderness area, It Is Important to secure a personnel which has a feeling for wilderness and an understanding of wilderness values; otherwise the desire to be doing something to the areas will be hard to curb. The administrators should be told that their success and achievements will be measured, not by projects accomplished, but by projects sidetracked.In the management of a wilderness area, we must somehow depart from the 20th century tempo of activity†¦ † In 1931 President Hoover signed the bill, making Isle Royals a national park, although formal dedication was delayed until August of 1946 due to World War II. Isle Royals National Park would become a natural laboratory to study the predator prey relationship between wolves and moose. The p ark Is free of roads, development and hunting. These conditions created a rare opportunity to research the moose and wolves Inhabiting the Island, In a nearly untouched environment.Wolves not originally native to Isle Royals, migrated on an ice bridge between Thunder Bay, Ontario and the island in 1949. Moose had come to the island some 50 years before by swimming through the icy Lake Superior. There was concern among the National Park Service that the wild wolf population would get out of hand. Robert Line, for the National Park Service, became the first naturalist for Isle Royals and began a study on wolves in 1956. Linen's study focused on how many wolves inhabited Isle Royals and how their activities might affect the moose population.Linen's letter and reports based on his study revealed that wolves were indeed not a threat to people and subsequently helped establish a policy through the National Park Service that would support the existence of an unmanaged wolf population. In 1 958 Outward Allen and his graduate student Dave Minch met Line when they first visited Isle Royals when they began a 10-year study to evaluate the role of the wolf with funds from the National Geographic Society and the United States Forest Service. Line would also become a huge supporter both morally and financially. Historically wolves have been systematically hunted, trapped and poisoned byAmericans and Europeans. The United States government via the United States Biological Survey was involved in a wolf eradication program for years. Humans have been fearful and loathe of wolves and have almost completely stamped them out of the ecosystem. Outward Allen writes â€Å"The wolf doesn't live in the forest; he infests it. You don't Just kill a predator; you execute him. You don't hunt him for sport; you track him down in a crusade for moral reform. † The goals of the project were and are; wolf predation patterns, wolf behavior and ecology and moose population dynamics.Studies of wolf predation patterns have accentuated the age and sex of the moose killed, other prey species, effect of snow depth and hunting success. Hierarchy in the packs, breeding, territoriality and relationships with other neoprene species has also been detected. Moose field observations included age and sex ratios, population size, productivity, habitat relationships, food habits and mortality factors. Without predators for nearly 50 years, the moose population thrived. Their diets consist of much of the vegetation on the island and did not have ample competition from other herbivores.The wolves began to be seen as a worthy component that could help control the overly large moose population. The base for research was initially out of the Winding Ranger Station; Flights were made everyday to observe the natural habitat of wolves and moose. Aerial observation became the prime method of research for both of the species. In 1975 Allen decided to retire and handed the project over to on e of his last Ph. D. Students, Roll Peterson. At this time the headquarters were also moved to Michigan Technological University in Houghton, also the mainland headquarters for the park.The wolf population grew from one alpha female and two male wolves that migrated on the ice bridge. For years the population grew steadily and hunted moose on the island, helping control the population. The wolves' primary diet on the island is beaver, moose and hare. An interesting connection between wolves and ravens was also observed which is uncommon in other carnivores. Even in folklore the relationship between wolves and ravens has been recorded, where the wolf goes the raven will follow. Ravens scavenge wolves' prey, sometimes leading wolves to a circus to tough for the raven's beak to penetrate.Ravens can steal up to one-third of the circus leading to Just one reason as to why wolves hunt in packs- to minimize the portion of the circus lost to ravens. Wolves and ravens have also been seen pla ying together. In 1980 the wolf population grew to 50, an all time high. During this same time the moose also appeared to be much healthier than before. Just nine years later, in 1989 the wolf population fell drastically to only 12 members. It is not entirely clear as to why this decline happened but there are a couple of suspects. There was a ovoviviparous outbreak among dogs and wolves in the mainland of Michigan.Dogs are not allowed on the park but are occasionally brought over illegally by boaters. The disease is primarily transmitted through oral-nasal contact and can even be spread by feces on hikers boots. There has also been a concern for genetic diversity, because the entire wolf population is derived from one alpha female, the wolves may be loosing 10-15% moose lived without predation for nearly 50 years their population soared. When the wolves arrived the moose population and vegetation on the island became much healthier. Yet their population soared once again. Through A llen, Minch andPeterson research it still has not become totally clear as to why the populations shift so drastically. The main reasons appear to be because of climactic factors, tick outbreaks and food shortages. Although there are fluctuations in the moose population of Isle Royals it stays at a steady pace and has no sign of dying out. As of 2014 there are only nine wolves left on the island. Due to inbreeding and the ovoviviparous the wolf population has grown weak and has begun to die off. The ice bridge that once formed regularly between Thunder Bay, Ontario and the island does to form as often as it used to due to rising temperatures in the region.Now the question is being asked if scientists should intervene and introduce new wolves to create stronger genetic variation. On April 9th, the National Park Service stated it would not take any immediate actions to bring new wolves to Isle Royals. Opinions vary as to what should be done; some believe intervention would corrupt the study and others think wolves should be reintroduced to the island. Roll Peterson, the head scientist studying Isle Royals insists that letting Mother Nature take her course old imply that Mother Nature is intact, but, â€Å"we have been cutting her fingers off for a long time. Most likely there will be no intervention and the pack will go extinct for scientific purposes and then the National Park Service may reintroduce wolves to Isle Royals. This would be a unique experience for scientific observation and give insight to what populations around the world are headed for. Outward Allen described the study as â€Å"one of those continuous searches into the unknown that has no foreseeable end. † The long-term wolf/moose research at Isle Royals has provided unique and one of a kind opportunity for science. It has provided an important insight to the unpredictability of ecosystems.Long-term research is a vital component of understanding long-term processes that could help secure our long- term existence and the well being of the planet. To avoid disturbance the park is legally closed by the National Park Service between November 1st and April 1 5th, it is also zoned for visitor use and about 50% of the island is closed to camping. Isle Royals has been in countless news stories and has received wide support from the public. At one time the island was seen as America's greatest moose refuge and now attracts attention because of the wolves.This study has also massively changed the public opinion on wolves in general; people widely support the reintroduction of wolves into parks such as Yellowstone. Wolves are a part of the ecosystem as much as moose or any other animal, they are not villains. Isle Royals is a prime example of wilderness values. The island provides a rare opportunity to observe biodiversity and its impact on ecological balance. Isle Royals maybe more so than other wilderness areas is kept as untouched by man as can be in order not to disturb t he wolves and moose.

Roles of Communication

There are three different roles of communication in the society. The first role of communication in the society is political role. Here, the role of communication is to provide the people information about the government or with the leaders. Like the issue about the RH Bill that are still talked about by many. Media are giving much attention on this and disseminate information on this. Many people depend on media so they will be aware of what is happening in the government. Almost every move of the government or the persons who are involved in politics are always in the news and being talked about. It also creates public opinion. After they had disseminate the information and the mass has received it different reaction or opinion of these people were made. The opinion of the people regarding the RH Bill is very crucial because we all know that the Catholic church is against it and this is issue is a great deal with our beliefs. After creating the opinion the mass media also reflects the opinion of the public. Somehow creating an image of the reaction of the people. About the RH Bill the opinion of the people can also be seen by the government in mass media and this is how the government somehow asses their decisions. The next role of communication in society is economic role. Communication is also has great effect on the economy of a country because we know that one to sell a product is to advertise in this mass media. The new tagline of the Department of Tourism â€Å" It’s More Fun In The Philippines† and it’s video can always be seen in television, can be heard over radio and can be seen in newspapers and because of these advertisements many tourist can be interested in the Philippines. With these the economy can grow and increase the income of the country and this can help the Filipino people. Last role of communication in the society is the social role. This role helps to strengthen the social fabric of a nation. The Filipino people is fund of listening to tha k-pop of Korea and it is a Pop Culture in the Philipiines. Teens are emulating how they dress and different hair style. We can see that Filipinos are affected by it. It also builds a nation and great example is when Manny Pacqiuao has fights the Filipino people stay at their home or pay paper views to watch it. Even this short period of time Filipinos are one in supporting him. It elps a nation much because being as one can help a nation grow. Entertaining the nation is also a part of social role. It is very obvious that mass media entertains us and it is important so people can be relaxed. In the coming Metro Manila Film Fest many Filipino films created by Filipinos can be watched and this films entertains many people. This time of the year make the Filipino somehow relaxed because of holidays. It helps a nation to be more productive because its workforce has somehow refreshed and has the capacity to do their job efficiently. And this are the 3 roles of communication in the society

The Broadway fountain in Madison Indiana Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The Broadway fountain in Madison Indiana - Essay Example This fountain is known as the Broadway Fountain (Save Our Heritage Organization 1) A sculptor known as Felix Peano made a design for the bronze eagle finial and three panels. Above the columns of the plaza is a decoration proclaiming â€Å"Broadway Fountain for the People† (Gresham 2). Architect Gill had won the job to design the plaza again beating twelve other entries. Gill’s design was beautiful and was welcomed and accepted by the community. However, after a few years other people started to present other plans for redesigning the plaza and the fountain (Gresham 8). In the period of the World War II, it was recommended the removal of the grass walks, palm trees and chains to enable conversion of the plaza into a bus depot for workers during the war. City Parks in San Diego opposed this move, but their opposition bore no fruit in 1943, the City Council modified the building amidst heavy opposition from the public. The sidewalks were widened on both sides and the grass was removed. Asphalt paving was laid around the trees and around the information booths (Save Our Heritage Organization 2) When the Second World War was over, the Park Commission decided to the remove the amenities that had been set in the plaza for the war. Their view was to put a closed off plaza street inside the plaza. Their idea, however, required the removal of the fountain, the palm trees, markers and cannon. These plans and many other plans presented alongside them were not approved by the city (Gresham 10). For several years, the focus was on how to change the design of the plaza or remove it and thus its condition and maintenance were not taken into consideration. By 1955, the state of the plaza had depreciated so much that it could not be ignored. (Save Our Heritage Organization 1) This time, the chamber of commerce was proposing the removal of the fountain, palm trees and the

NEWS CORPORATION CASE STUDY Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

NEWS CORPORATION CASE STUDY - Essay Example NC has existence in six media domains that include Cable Network Programming; Filmed Entertainment; Television; Direct Broadcast Satellite Television; Publishing, and Other (Reuters, 2012). This essay is based on the case study analysis regarding the overall expansion strategies of NC. Based on the information in the case study, it explores corporate level strategies of NC and discusses attempt it undertakes to add value to its overall portfolio. For the purpose, strategy matrixes of Ansoff product and market development matrix and corporate parenting matrix have been applied; analysis and suggestion for improvement has also been provided. Analysis for the criticism on Ansoff product development has also been made part of the essay. News Corporation media conglomerate initiated its journey in 1923 with publishing of a local newspaper The News in Adelaide, Australia by Ruport Murdoch’s father. The corporation continued growth and by year 1980 News Corporation had success in cre ating country’s only national newspaper The Australian, also two national magazines and 20 Provincial newspapers. Major developments in the journey of NC have landmarks. NC in 1968 expanded beyond its homeland Australia and entered UK with purchase of News of the World and to US in 1973 with purchase of The Express Publishing Company. Since then, journey for constantly increasing global footing is on way. News Corporation attempted first diversification strategy with major shift to US and bought Film Company Twentieth century Fox in year 1984. In 1989 NC entered into satellite broadcasting business in UK. It further expanded to Asia In 1993 acquired STAR TV followed by developing foothold in internet media with acquisition of My Space.com in 2005. NC has been following the technological development at each stage successfully except few exceptions. Its overall strategy has been to size the unanticipated and unique opportunity with agility no matter how much risky the new ventu re get. It carried strategy of providing customised product. Throughout journey in case study, NC has been managed by Ruport Murdoch. Ruport Murdoch has been described as person with intention to rule the world and so is reflected in the risky moves taken by NC. RM also has been very dominant in guiding the deep down operations and in order to get the positive results he had was free to use his political terms to support his ventures. NC has been successfully leveraging its financial, personnel and knowledge resource to expand and control the business that has international presence in various media related domains. Though financial conditions have had some difficult times but NC has been able to strengthen it with its strategy. The Ansoff (1965) developed strategy matrix using two dimension of development; first product development and other being market development. This matrix gained much popularity in business literature. The matrix with former variable on horizontal axis and la tter one vertical axis provided four strategies which are: product development, market development, market penetration and diversification (Cravens and Piercy, 2008). Individually both variables have been given the credit to play crucial role in leading firm’s success; since pioneering study by Stopford and Wells (1972). Moreover, there have been large numbers of studies developing the success stories with strategies developed by combining the two variables in matrix (Constantinides, 2004; Watts, Cope, and Hulme, 1998; Delios and Beamish, 2002) (Constantinides, 2004) The Ansoff matrix being the combination of important variables of international literature has its own success levels; however, four strategies develo

Strategic Management Aspect Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Strategic Management Aspect - Essay Example However, it should also be noted that each of these techniques has its own weaknesses and limitations. Thus, in evaluating the Loftmeister's strategic performance through the use strategic management tools, this report will also state its weaknesses and limitations. The report is organized as follows. The first section will look at the internal environment of the Loftmeister through the use of ratio analysis in order to assess its profitability. Next, the external factors in the company's environment will be looked into through the use of PESTLE analysis. The last section will present a SWOT analysis which will integrate the previous analyses. Financial ratio analysis is a very essential tool in assessing the financial health of a business entity. Specifically, it enables a financial analyst to spot trends in a business and to compare it with the performance of similar business enterprises within the same industry. Financial ratios are grouped into four categories, each showing a different aspect of a company's financial operations. These are profitability ratios, financial leverage ratios and liquidity/solvency, and activity ratios. Due to the limited availability of data, this report will only look at Loftmeister's profitability ratios from 2001-2004. Profitability ratios measure the ability of the company to generate income from its investments less the costs incurred. The gross profit margin ratio tells us the profit a business makes on its cost of sales, or cost of goods sold. The computed operating profit margin, which is the ratio of operating income to sales measures as a percentage of sales, the excess revenue from sales over cost of normal operation excluding financing. (Analyzing Company Reports 2005). Logically, higher profitability ratios indicate a healthier financial condition. The table above shows the computed profitability ratios of the Loftmeiser Plc from 2001-2004. It should be noted that both gross profit and operating profit margins are declining through the years. The company's gross profit margin declined by 9% during the five year period attributing to the rise in the demand for lower margin off-trade products coupled with the decline of higher margins on-trade offerings. On the other hand, operating profit margin also slid by 10% indicating Loftmeiser's inefficient cost management. Financial ratios are commonly used to assess the financial performance of a business organization. However, this type of analysis is limited only in evaluating the financial aspect of a company and not the whole industry. Financial analysis should always be accompanied by benchmarking in order to fully determine how each industry player fared during the financial year. It should be noted that numbers don't tell all and attention should also be focused on other relevant qualitative issues in the market. PESTLE Analysis PESTLE analysis stands for Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Legal, and Environmental. This strategic management tool is noted for its ability to capture almost all the variables in the environment where the business

Qualitative Market Research Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Qualitative Market Research - Essay Example The researcher aims to develop primary research and gain first hand information from the customers for the launch of Kit Kat chocolate slab. Hence, employed in this research are two techniques of primary research to update perception of Kit Kat among chocolate eaters. Findings of the primary data have been presented. In addition the researcher has discussed in detail the various aspects of the research techniques employed. Researcher has also shed light on other techniques (that have not been employed due to resource constraint) identifying aspects that could have been explored based on employment of other techniques. Research Method 1- PRIMARY RESEACH Among two broad categorization of research is primary and secondary research. Primary research refers to research methodology with analysis and fact finding from data that has been collected for the first time and has not been through application of any techniques before (Glass, 1976). Among many techniques designed for primary researc h, two that have employed in this research are individual interview and focus group interviews. Both techniques have been employed face to face. Interview method of data collection refers to oral and verbal response to oral and verbal queries. ... The other method of unstructured interview provides interviewee with freedom to response but increases deviations resulting difficulty in comparing responses (Sekaran, 2006). 1.1.1- EFFECTIVENESS Effectiveness of personal interviews is dependent on the level of contribution from both sides; i.e. interviewee and interviewer. Interviewer shall provide comfortable environment providing ease to interviewee to openly and comfortably present his/ her views. Moreover, interviewer possessing dominant attitude affect the effectiveness of overall methods. Interviewee is usually asked for prior consent and hence, shall be true in information provision. 1.2- FOCUS GROUP SESSION Focused group discussion is conducted to explore responses of individuals' to any existing products, concept or ideas. It is based with degree of formal discussion usually among group of 6 to 8 participants. Participants are directed by moderator towards point of discussion acting as a psycho-therapist. During discussion moderator avoids reflecting any of personal views and encourages participants to provide increased response. This format also is generally initiated by moderator; however, rigidness of the order of question is somewhat relaxed in this format. 1.2.1- EFFECTIVENESS Effective focused discussion can be achieved with moderator playing role in true spirit, avoiding taking side of either participants and encouraging entire group to participate almost equally. Moreover, participants must also maintain to present their view than dominating the group. Effectiveness of the focused discussion can also be achieved with carrying discussion in well defined flow: initially warming up participants with thoughts; exploring important

Consumer Chemistry Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Consumer Chemistry - Essay Example Land degradation, global warming and resistant organisms have limited the adequate food supply through traditional plant breeding (McKinney & Schoch, 322). These problems have called for the introduction and development of genetically modified food or transgenic crops, which are resistant to disease causing micro-organisms and drought. However, this technology has met strong critics due to the health risks it has on the population. This limitation has slowed down the rate of its adoption and implementation in several countries, especially in the third world countries (McKinney & Schoch, 322). Most people, including some biotechnology specialists, feels GM foods are potential inducers of new allergen in the human body. This is evident in some people and children who are highly resistant to GM foods and peanuts (Jensen & Malter 2). Genes can originate from different species, for example, when an animal gene is introduced into plan genome. With the GM foods, the human body is at risk of developing resistant bacteria, which may become extremely difficult to control using the normal antibiotics. This can lead to increased spread of diseases (Jensen & Malter 2). In conclusion, despite the health risks imposed by the GM foods, it should be understood that it only has negative effects on a small percentage of the population. Most of the supermarkets are stocked with GM foods, and only a small percentage of shoppers complain of their side effects. This, therefore, is an indication that GM foods are the future sources of food. Biotechnology advancements should be supported, and adopted by all nations, so as to address the problems of drought and crop resistant organisms on the traditional plant breeding method. This will ensure adequate and better food is supplied to the ever-growing population (Evenson & Santaniello

Macroeconomics & International Finance for Business Essay

Macroeconomics & International Finance for Business - Essay Example us and significance in the 21st Century, when globalisation and e-commerce-induced technological advancement have rendered corporate existence and future growth subservient on marketing competitive advantages and better skills in a rapidly changing global business environment. There are several factors that could determine a country’s economic progression. It could be as diverse aspects as the availability of roads and infra-structural facilities as the quality of education and the significant technological prowess the country is able to wield in the comity of nations. Resorting to Foreign Direct investments and equity participation of foreign governments or public/ private agencies in investments of government and/or private sectors and also capital repatriation from NRI’s In the context of capital accumulation, the Harrod-Domar Model assumes significance since it is a determinant of the growth rate G. If Y could be represented as GDP and S=Savings, then the growth of savings is determined by GDP-S=SY. The Investments represented by I is an important determinant for the produce as well as increase in capital. Thus, ∆K = ÏÆ'∆Y. Thus, it could be said that for the equilibrium point to be reached, a consensus needs to be made between demand and supply of a country’s produce. Hence I = S. This model is important since the equilibrium growth rate of the output = Ratio of the marginal propensity to save and the capital=output ratio. How the economy is growing is based on the growth of the capacity of the economy to produce as compared with the demand of the produce of the state. If, in this hypothetical instance, the marginal propensity to consume out of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is 0.7, then the marginal propensity to save is 0.3, which is inclusive of all types of savings. The equilibrium growth rate = propensity to save/capital output ratio, and in this case, it would be 0.3/3 or 10% annual growth rate. Thus, the position in this hypothetical

Realm Human as Person Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Realm Human as Person - Essay Example The research will prove that personality is subject to biology and spirituality combined. Accordingly, Christian personalism has a philosophical difference inspired by Blystone nurtures a post-modernist thought. However, it is clear from the research that personalism has not been subject to religion. Blystone attempts to define a common ground for personalism as a philosophy, in an anthropological manner rather than theological terms. The basis of a definition of a spirit is the violence of heroic self-overcoming in the creative act, with founding members who would soon work out in the precise social-economic principles. According to Blystone, there is an on-going dialogue between Christian, Jews and Muslim as long as other interreligious dialogue. Essentially, the practice of these different dialogues needs a further theoretical work into both theological and Jewish-Christian dialogue as well as theologia religionum. Based on religion, humankind is engaged to a wider dialogue of the heart metrics. According to Blystone, studying religion in that context is monumentally and even indispensably important anthropologically. For that reason, religion becomes a human foundation. Bylstone further notes that the religious ethical calling of humankind is to create â€Å"personae and their persons, which creates a community of persons in the systems of personhood 4. In simpler words, the personalism that pervades the document is a transposition of natural law into philosophical anthropology. The transportation marks a renewal within the traditional of natural law itself, hence enabling reasoning about the human person as new key. According to the Blystone, personalism is a perspective that places anthropology at the centre, the human person, considered in his or her entirety in what is unique to the individual human person and the common to the human conditions, which then promotes

Problem solving Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Problem solving - Essay Example techniques that has been majorly studied, scientifically, involves skin penetration with thin metallic needles which are either manipulated by hands or electricity to bring about pain relief. Acupuncture has been traditionally used in China and other Asian countries; however, it is steadily gaining grounds all over the world in the wake of globalization. NCCAM (2012) confirms this fact by stating that millions of Americans use acupuncture every year to relieve pain. It is evident that acupuncture is being used to relieve pain among patients, but we should ask ourselves whether it is really effective. NCCAM (2012) documents that researchers have studied the effects of acupuncture in managing neck pain, osteoarthritis, shoulder pain, and chronic headache and established that it is an effective pain reliever. This finding defeats the notion that acupuncture is a mere placebo and calls for more clinical referrals and research to improve it. Considering that convectional medicines, p ain killers, have myriad of side effects, some of which may be fatal, it is my opinion that alternative medical practices like acupuncture should be explored and developed to accord medical solutions. Further, research has given robust evidence that acupuncture is useful in pain management, and it is imperative that the same be embraced. However, acupuncturists should take serious precautions to deter its negative effects like allergic reactions and nerve damages. There has to be more research to make acupuncture more effective and to manage its side effects. NCCAM. (2012). Acupuncture; Acupuncture May Be Helpful for Chronic Pain: A Meta-Analysis. National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Retrieved from:

Different Types of Database Management System Essay Example for Free

Different Types of Database Management System Essay A database can be a set of flat files stored on computer tape or disk or it could consist of database tables that are managed by a Database Management System (DBMS). There are different types of DBMS products: relational, network and hierarchical, multidimensional, object. The most widely commonly used type of DBMS today is the Relational Database Management Systems (RDBMS). Database management systems (DBMS) are designed to use one of five database structures to provide simplistic access to information stored in databases. The five database structures are: the hierarchical model, he network model, the relational model, the multidimensional model, and the object model. Inverted lists and other methods are also used. A given database management system may provide one or more of the five models. The optimal structure depends on the natural organization of the applications data, and on the applications requirements, which include transaction rate (speed), reliability, maintainability, scalability, and cost. Hierarchical Model The hierarchical data model organizes data in a tree structure. There is a hierarchy of parent and child data segments. This structure implies that a record can have repeating information, generally in the child data segments. Data in a series of records, which have a set of field values attached to it. It collects all the instances of a specific record together as a record type. These record types are the equivalent of tables in the relational model, and with the individual records being the equivalent of rows. To create links between these record types, the hierarchical model uses Parent Child Relationships. These are a 1:N mapping between record types. This is done by using trees, like set theory used in the relational model, borrowed from maths. For example, an organization might store information about an employee, such as name, employee number, department, salary. The organization might also store information about an employees children, such as name and date of birth. The employee and children data forms a hierarchy, where the employee data represents the parent segment and the children data represents the child segment. If an employee has three children, then there would be three child segments associated with one employee segment. In a hierarchical database the parent-child relationship is one to many. This restricts a child segment to having only one parent segment. Hierarchical DBMSs were popular from the late 1960s, with the introduction of IBMs Information Management System (IMS) DBMS, through the 1970s. The hierarchical structure was used in early mainframe DBMS. Records’ relationships form a treelike model. This structure is simple but nonflexible because the relationship is confined to a one-to-many relationship. IBM’s IMS system and the RDM Mobile are examples of a hierarchical database system with multiple hierarchies over the same data. RDM Mobile is a newly designed embedded database for a mobile computer system. The hierarchical structure is used primarily today for storing geographic information and file systems. Network Model The popularity of the network data model coincided with the popularity of the hierarchical data model. Some data were more naturally modeled with more than one parent per child. So, the network model permitted the modeling of many-to-many relationships in data. In 1971, the Conference on Data Systems Languages (CODASYL) formally defined the network model. The basic data modeling construct in the network model is the set construct. A set consists of an owner record type, a set name, and a member record type. A member record type can have that role in more than one set, hence the multiparent concept is supported. An owner record type can also be a member or owner in another set. The data model is a simple network, and link and intersection record types (called junction records by IDMS) may exist, as well as sets between them . Thus, the complete network of relationships is represented by several pairwise sets; in each set some (one) record type is owner (at the tail of the network arrow) and one or more record types are members (at the head of the relationship arrow). Usually, a set defines a 1:M relationship, although 1:1 is permitted. The CODASYL network model is based on mathematical set theory. The network structure consists of more complex relationships. Unlike the hierarchical structure, it can relate to many records and accesses them by following one of several paths. In other words, this structure allows for many-to-many relationships. Relational Model (RDBMS relational database management system) A database based on the relational model developed by E. F. Codd. A relational database allows the definition of data structures, storage and retrieval operations and integrity constraints. In such a database the data and relations between them are organised in tables. A table is a collection of records and each record in a table contains the same fields. Properties of Relational Tables: Values Are Atomic Each Row is Unique Column Values Are of the Same Kind The Sequence of Columns is Insignificant The Sequence of Rows is Insignificant Each Column Has a Unique Name Certain fields may be designated as keys, which means that searches for specific values of that field will use indexing to speed them up. Where fields in two different tables take values from the same set, a join operation can be performed to select related records in the two tables by matching values in those fields. Often, but not always, the fields will have the same name in both tables. For example, an orders table might contain (customer-ID, product-code) pairs and a products table might contain (product-code, price) pairs so to calculate a given customers bill you would sum the prices of all products ordered by that customer by joining on the product-code fields of the two tables. This can be extended to joining multiple tables on multiple fields. Because these relationships are only specified at retreival time, relational databases are classed as dynamic database management system. The RELATIONAL database model is based on the Relational Algebra. The relational structure is the most commonly used today. It is used by mainframe, midrange and microcomputer systems. It uses two-dimensional rows and columns to store data. The tables of records can be connected by common key values. While working for IBM, E. F. Codd designed this structure in 1970. The model is not easy for the end user to run queries with because it may require a complex combination of many tables. Multidimensional structure The multidimensional structure is similar to the relational model. The dimensions of the cube-like model have data relating to elements in each cell. This structure gives a spreadsheet-like view of data. This structure is easy to maintain because records are stored as fundamental attributes in the same way they are viewed and the structure is easy to understand. Its high performance has made it the most popular database structure when it comes to enabling online analytical processing (OLAP). Object/Relational Model Object/relational database management systems (ORDBMSs) add new object storage capabilities to the relational systems at the core of modern information systems. These new facilities integrate management of traditional fielded data, complex objects such as time-series and geospatial data and diverse binary media such as audio, video, images, and applets. By encapsulating methods with data structures, an ORDBMS server can execute comple x analytical and data manipulation operations to search and transform multimedia and other complex objects. As an evolutionary technology, the object/relational (OR) approach has inherited the robust transaction- and performance-management features of it s relational ancestor and the flexibility of its object-oriented cousin. Database designers can work with familiar tabular structures and data definition languages (DDLs) while assimilating new object-management possibi lities. Query and procedural languages and call interfaces in ORDBMSs are familiar: SQL3, vendor procedural languages, and ODBC, JDBC, and proprie tary call interfaces are all extensions of RDBMS languages and interfaces. And the leading vendors are, of course, quite well known: IBM, Inform ix, and Oracle. The object oriented structure has the ability to handle graphics, pictures, voice and text, types of data, without difficultly unlike the other database structures. This structure is popular for multimedia Web-based applications. It was designed to work with object-oriented programming languages such as Java. Object-Oriented Model Object DBMSs add database functionality to object programming languages. They bring much more than persistent storage of programming language objects. Object DBMSs extend the semantics of the C++, Smalltalk and Java object programming languages to provide full-featured database programming capability, while retaining native language compatibility. A major benefit of this approach is the unification of the application and database development into a seamless data model and language environment. As a result, applications require less code, use more natural data modeling, and code bases are easier to maintain. Object developers can write complete database applications with a modest amount of additional effort. The object-oriented database (OODB) paradigm is the combination of object-oriented programming language (OOPL) systems and persistent systems. The power of the OODB comes from the seamless treatment of both persistent data, as found in databases, and transient data, as found in executing programs. In contrast to a relational DBMS where a complex data structure must be flattened out to fit into tables or joined together from those tables to form the in-memory structure, object DBMSs have no performance overhead to store or retrieve a web or hierarchy of interrelated objects. This one-to-one mapping of object programming language objects to database objects has two benefits over other storage approaches: it provides higher performance management of objects, and it enables better management of the complex interrelationships between objects. This makes object DBMSs better suited to support applications such as financial portfolio risk analysis systems, telecommunications service applications, world wide web document structures, design and manufacturing systems, and hospital patient record systems, which have complex relationships between data.

Technical aspects of tourism

Technical aspects of tourism Executive summary: This report deals with the introduction and usage of ICT (Information and communication technology in the field of tourism. This report discusses all the technical aspects of the tourism industry and its impact on consumers. First it discusses various basic factors relate to the ICT and how it has been used by the customer and the tourism sector to interact with each other and also stress on various other benefits arising out of it. It discusses the topic of e-business in detail and explains how it has affected the consumers across the world. The topics like decision making by the tourist and various models by different analysts have also been taken into consideration to assess the topic in depth. Competitive advantage of E- commerce has been brought into light. To analyse the impact of ICT on the tourism industry, we have taken an example of a tourist agency called Thomas Cook. It one of the premier tourism agencies in the word, that has achieved a lot of success through effective implementing the ICT system in their firm. This report has analysed the strategies adopted by Thomas cook for their success in tourism sector. One of the major factors called mySAP consumer relations management has been discussed in detail. This paper also deals with the advantages of the benefits that a consumer has through e-commerce as well as the barriers of e-commerce. Introduction: Information and communication technology (ICT) is the Contemporary style of doing business in an effective manner. This process was being used since the early 1930s but in recent times i.e., the past 15 years this system is been followed extensively in various sectors. Major sectors like retail, banking, telecommunication, governments of various countries, Tourism, etc is using this system effectively. This concept covers vide rang of appliances like internet, wireless, Digital Cameras Wi-Fi, VIOP, GPS, Digital Radio, etc. Every sector is trying to implement this process through one way or the other to improve their business performance. It is been so extensively these days that an article in the Daily Telegraph IT supplement said that, many large organisations would not survive 24 hours without the help of ICT. This attitude change towards ICT was always expected and is of no wonder. This development was inevitable as this made the work easier and faster. This is the main reason why outsourcing of work began. The cost of production was reduced and so was the cost of goods. This technological development has eliminated the national boundaries and helped various businesses to go global, thus integrating markets as well as economies across the world. This rapid growth in the technology has lead to the concept of E-Business and E-Commerce. With e-business there are various advantages due to the presence of global audience, online transaction, etc. This is playing a major role in reshaping the tourism sector across the world. This concept of ICT has brought people much closer to the tourism service providers. Now, customers do most of their holiday or travel plans online. Many tourism companies are adopting this technology. The tourism sector being one of the traditional sectors it was not a smooth ride in taking up this technological advancement. Many small could not afford this kind of investment. They had to terminate a lot of workers as after this advancement there was minimal response to the traditional high street travel agencies. Although physical services are the core products of industry, it is dominated by information systems. (Shankar, 2008) ICT and tourism sector: Tourism is a fast growing and information intensive sector. In traditional tourism sector the customer has to all the way to the travel agency to get the information about the journey or trip. Now, it has become easy for the customers to just sit in their home and browse through various sites and compare different packages provided by different travel agencies. The ICT tools for organising, Marketing, Managing the customer is known. Advertising, promotions, managing sales, use of GIS and GPS to monitor and manage the customer can be considered as some of the ICT tool among many. There are various reasons as to why the tourism industry is adopting this approach: (According to Avison and Fitzgerald, 1995) To expand the industrial boundaries. Reduce expenses. Improve relations with the customers. To deter the new entrants in the market. With the ICT technology been used in various sectors like Airways, Railways, Tour operators, Hotels etc has made is essential for the tourism sector to adopt this system and later an advantage for the sector (Inkpen and Sheldon, 1997). Various kinds of business are using social media to do their business through networking sites and other ways: Web 2.0: It has gained immense popularity in the web world and its users. This is been extensively used by the tourism industry. It has brought a new face to the industry. It has a lot of technological web applications like social networking groups, blogs, podcasting, online video, etc. RSS: RSS (Really Simple Syndicate) is used by the tourism industry to communicate with its customers in person. This simple syndicate enable the customer to receive information on the relevant tourism topic of his choosing. Through this a customer receives the links of different or best travel deals. (Nelson, 2006) Blogging: A person creates a blog and updates it with all the information and text. Then the blogger encourages a discussion on his blog by posting comments. This system of blogging is been used by tourism firms, where they post some information and encourage discussion between customers and keep their customer attracted. Social networking: This is the most accessed or most popular mode of sharing information on internet. As the majority are youngsters this has flourished. The most known social networking sites are Facebook, Hi5, Orkut, Twitter, etc. A person has access to various communities and has a chance to be part of different groups and to enter into discussions online (Boyd and Ellison, 2007). One of the fastest growing travel web sites is WAYN. It helps people to exchange information on their travel experiences and to share their interests online. Online videos and podcasting: When it comes to this mode the most famous site that pops in our mind is YouTube. It is of great help in the tourism as a visual is provided so as to inform/communicate with the customer in an effective manner. A social networking provides called metaverses enable the customers to interact while doing business. Virtual websites are also coming into existence where we can create a personalised avatar and go for a virtual holiday on web. (Hay, 2008) Tagging: This process saves a lot of time for the customer as many travel agencies are tagging different item from different sites so that the customer doesnt have to search in multiple places. Like tourism website may tag the location of the place from Google maps, information taken from encyclopaedia and video from YouTube. (Oconnor et al, 2008) Tourist Decision Making: This is important factor on how a tourist thinks and what are the factors that determine or influence the decision making of the tourist? There were many models which tired to explain the consumer behaviour but failed as they were regarding the tangible goods and did not take into consideration the intangible factors or the feeling part of the customer. (Gilbert, 1991) All the models were criticised that they were just an extension of other models. Let us take into consideration Schmoll (1977) which is based on decision making process in tourism. Motivation, desires/needs, and expectations are said to influence the final destination. There are other factors also which influence the decision making that is, travel stimuli, external and internal variables. (Swarbrooke and Horner, 1999) The process of decision making includes 5 points as proposed by Mathieson and Wall (1982). A desire to travel. The potential of the customer in obtaining information from the respective tourist agency, broachers, advertisements, etc. Other factor like cost of the trip, availability of alternative tours, facilities available in that region, etc. Accommodation type, travel mode and ultimately the final destination. Travel preparations like packing of clothing and equipment and the travel begins. Evaluation of past travel experiences and the result of this will obviously effect future tours. All these models have tried to analyse the behaviour of the tourist and the factors (tangible and intangible) that affect their decision making. Competitive Advantage of E-Business: There are a lot of competitive advantages that arise out of e-business and information technology. The customer can find out about the product, its various uses and compare with other products online sitting at home rather than going all the way to the store. Sometime lot of product comparison may go against the firm so they can adopt the method of product bundling. As various services can be added to the bundle and keep the customer away from individual product comparison. (Schiesel, 2001) Innovation and introduction of niche products which deals with the issues related to product substitutes and new entries into the market. (Sinha, 2000) Consumer centric strategy that is, gathering of information from the customer and developing the packages or products accordingly. (Viehland, 2000) Transfer of skills and sharing of activities and be exploited via extending to related product lines. (Porter, 1980) Price lining and smart pricing: Selling the same product at different price levels to reach people of different standard is price lining. In smart pricing, different price is charged at different market and also according to the value of the product in that region. (Sinha, 2000) Price discrimination must be done to save the profit margins, so that when the competition intensifies then they dont have to lower their prices. Dialogue based marketing must be done in order to explain the customer about the product as well as to obtain a feedback on the packages and upgrade accordingly. (Sealey, 2000) Establishing revenue sharing strategies with other web sites so as to provide customer with subsidiary requirements and fulfilling their needs to the maximum extent. For eg, dell computers is already doing this and has been successful in providing better services. (Hoffman and Novak, 2000) Completely automated delivery system so as to meet the customer desires. About Thomas Cook: It is a leading leisure travel group with 22.1 million customers. It operates around 21 countries across the word. It operates with 31,000 employees all over the world with a fleet 95 aircrafts and 3400 franchised office all over the world. (Thomas Cook Group). It has captured 30% of the UK, Ireland, India and Middle East market, with a fleet of 43 planes and a controlled distribution of 68.6%. Their strategy is to focus on their main business that is, the travel agency and to strengthen it. They also want to invest in travel related sectors and financial sectors through mergers, acquisitions and investing with partners. Ultimately their aim is to become the largest individual travel service provider in the world. They are also planning on becoming independent financial service provider in the world market. To attain this they are with the implementation of highest standard of corporate governance to have an effective decision making mechanism. (Thomas Cook Group Ltd.) Challenges for Tour Operators: All the major tourism companies after 1980 are focused on increasing their profit margins by vertical integration. Although this did not produce anticipated results as the tourism companies expected due to high costs of integration and less returns on their investment or expenditure. Due to rapid growth of travel eMediaries and commission erosion at that time had a negative impact on the travel industry. (Dombey, 2005) Due to this Crisis Thomas cook changed its strategy from an ideal integrated leisure travel group as this model was outdated. In 2006 CEO of Thomas cook announced a new business model where they will be offering optimum flexibility to the customer at the expense of low investment. (Karstadt Quell, 2006) With the vast usage of internet by the consumers and the presence of eMediaries in the market, Thomas Cook had to rethink its strategies. Although not completely abandoning of the traditional integrated vertical system, the advantages of the traditional system were integrated with that of the new dynamic and flexible system that is the system of ICT. This model was also known as hybrid model. (Chaffey, 2004) Changes in organisation as a whole: Thomas cook had to go through a lot changes on the organisational level as they have now opted for a new model of performing their business. The traditional system was more human with minimal technological involvement in the process of customer service. Now, the new model was highly sophisticated and technical so the whole organisation had to go through a change in terms of structure, work culture, workers mind set, technical changes etc. Structural changes: The traditional system followed a hierarchical structure where everything was strictly departmentalised. But as they went for e-business this kind of traditional structure was considered as barrier in performing e-business. So, they went for a system which was more like an informal networking (Shand 2000). For eg the number of directors was reduced to 8 from 40, to ensure that decisions were taken quickly in the organisation. Cultural changes: With adoption of internet and a highly technical based system it changes the whole organisation, how it thinks, how it does things and it completely effects the organisational. When a company is about to adopt e-business then it must take into consideration the two most important factors that is, the organisational culture and technical skills. The high level management was up for the rapid implementations of e-business techniques but the annual report was suggesting that it would take some time to completely adopt. It was found was part of the organisation was running fast and the rest of the organisation jus looked like they were trying to catch up. With e-business they were able to concentrate more on the consumer and their need therefore, by obtaining the loyalty and also deepening the relationship with the customers. (Siegel, 2000) Technical Changes: E-business required knowledge of skills at both the managerial as well as the operational level. Now in this scenario there will more knowledge based jobs available and there is a possibility that the manager could be less competent than his employee as he may be update with all the new technological skill. (Mahesh and Hartman, 2005) It was also observed that some of the junior managers were training or giving suggestions to their superiors. As a result 80% of the recruitments in the e-business section were made outside the organization as they didnt have the ability as they lacked technical knowledge. One of the biggest challenges to Thomas Cook was to make the technological changes that is, updating or installing new softwares, purchasing of high end computers, etc. Thomas Cook has announced a  £64 million replace it s legacy reservation systems to multi channel reservation platform. Thomas Cook and ICT: We have discussed on the information and communication system, its implications in tourism sector and the competitive advantages arising when then system is followed. Now, let us take an example of a tourism agency and analyse how the ICS has benefited them. Thomas Cook has started using the ICS from February 2000. It has made huge investments on the technical development of the firm. After they entered the online system their business was up by 15% and 30% of the customers were using the online services. It has invested a lot in e-business development and training and is now reaping the benefits of it. Thomas cook adopted the strategy of direct marketing which is nothing but an interactive use of the advertising media to stimulate and to modify in such a way that the behaviours can be recorded, tracked, understood, stored for the future use of the information. (Jacobs R. and Stone B., 2001) They first adopted the Communicating Sequential Processes (CSP) which was then proposed by the IT project manager in the firm. This is a Formal Language that was used to describe patterns in interaction between concurrent systems. It was a failure because of the following reasons: CSP complicated the process for error search and made it very tedious. It delayed the process of generating the campaigns and market segment reports as, by 2004 its database was full and was unable to accommodate or manage further data/information. In travel world each customer has a different choice and the CSP database was not sophisticated enough to handle these issues as it was an outdated method. The cost of campaign was increased due to the use of CSP as it was outdated and did not serve the purpose of the dynamic future needs. As cost of maintenance was increasing and thus were unable to use the profits for various aspects of their business. They were now looking for a cost effective, and a system which could enable the smooth processing of the information, effective campaign, etc. Their answer to all these problems was one solution an thaw was mySAP CRM. This was a product of SAP global for customer relations management (CRM). What is mySAP CRM? This software unlike other CRM software helps in not only in formulating and achieving the short term imperatives but also in the process of decision making and in reducing the cost of managing or maintenance. It can also help a company in achieving differentiated capabilities to compete in the market. SAP CRM covers various aspect of the tourism industry and helps them in various ways like: (According to SAP Global) Marketing: It helps in achieving the organisational goals. Better understanding of market spending and the returns on them. Visibility and control of operations is increased which accelerates the process of marketing. High value customers can be identified and retained with the help of Customer loyalty programmes. A central marketing platform could be established. Sales: Profits can be increased. Customer interaction and be initiated and their demands could be met more efficiently. The focus on sales is increased Enterprise sales process can be initiated across channels. Personalised experience to the customers can be provided. Service: With the help of in spot information and other resources there shall be an improvement in first contact resolution. Service employees are provided with tools and the information that is requires to retain the customer and to prevent a churn. Easy access to resources and information boosts field utilization. Product based services are provided to the customer to increase the revenue. Issues related to product defects can be handled effectively. A unique and consistent user experience is possible with various interaction channels like voice mails, text messages, e-mails, etc. Contact Centre: The number of relevant calls can be increased. Personalised telemarketing campaigns can be initiated. Customer services can be improved from the first call itself. A proper analysis on contact centre is possible and insight is attained on the current trends. E-Commerce: Improving sales and to extend market with relevant offers. Personalised and targeted e-marketing campaign to attain the customer loyalty. Intuitive self services could be provided to increase customer convenience. The cost of sales can be reduced by following proper and consistent ways of pricing and customer information across channels. Reliable commitments are made using streamline end to end order to cash. Possibilities of analyzing the actions and trends of e-business. IT Services: IT service agents and track and solve the problems easily through streamline service desk. Management of IT financials by the use of native integration of SAP ERP financial solutions. Built in analytics and add on tools enable to get a insight into the IT service desk. Both the customer and the stakeholders are satisfied as there is a transparent process in defining and enforcing agreements on service levels. Web 2.0 supports native integration with SAP solution manager so all the SAP and non SAP related IT support services are managed appropriately. With all these advantages of mySAP CRM in providing effective services in the tourism industry has enabled Thomas cook to attain a superior level in the tourism sector then its counterparts in the same sector. The major competitive advantage that Thomas Cook attained from mySAP CRM are: To integrate campaign between various departments and partners this in turn helped in maintaining the brand consistency. The marketing department have streamlines and standardized the process for creating or approving a particular campaign. Complex segmentations and database operations have become faster with the use of high speed segmentation and also provide new insights into customer behaviour. Thomas Cook was able to provide campaign relevant data for the execution of a campaign due to highly flexible customer structure. It reduced the cost of reaching the targeted customer and now Thomas Cook and reaches more customers without any increase in spending. (Reiner Wegmann, IT Project Manager, Thomas cook, 2006) Thomas Cook was now independent and not relying on any other IT department for third party subscription. Interactive drag and drop phase and graphic visualisation has speeded up the process of market segmentation and listing. The process of decision making was faster due to personalised portals. This also enables the players to take wise and quick decisions as important information is already there in there portals. Thomas cook was able to make long term business propositions as well as to focus on the operational business objectives. (SAP customer success story retail, Thomas cook, 2006) Benefits of E-commerce to Customers: From the above analysis we can say that there are a lot of benefits to the customers: The web provides ample information about every destination and the facilities over there. Through e commerce the tourism agencies are able to provide all the information about the desired destination. The products or packages can be compared and the customer can take a decision accordingly. The customer can use the social networking and discuss the tour experiences or enquire about them or to know about them. It provides flexibility to the customer. The customer no longer has to go all way to the agency to gather information about his desired destiny. E-commerce provides various packages and concessions online which are not available otherwise. E-commerce has user friendly web sites that are designed for the targeted customers. Barriers of E-Commerce: We have discussed all the various factors that influenced the tourism industry to adopt ICT system and e-commerce played an important role. There also some barriers associated with e-commerce that has to be taken into consideration by the tourism industry and to work on them to get better results in the future. It cannot functions without the basic requirements like backup services and required hardware. These can be an expensive investment in the company at the time converting from a traditional system. The trust factor of the e-commerce must be given preference and both the government and the private sector should work together in increasing the safety of e-commerce. Confidentiality should be provided to the customers personal information, safety of credit card details must also be ensured. The existence of regulations and presence of international laws prevents e-commerce from being an effective source. Conclusion: From the above analysis we can conclude that, Information and communication system plays an important role in the development of the tourism industry. Social networking and various other options on web have taken the tourism industry to the next level. The web has provided a huge marketing source for the tourism sector in cost effective manner. (Armstrong and Hagel, 1996; Kozinets, 1999; Wang et al, 2002) It is also evident that the latest upgrade in information systems has clearly given Thomas Cook an edge over the other tourism agencies. Although it has gone through rapid changes in the organisational structure but it has effectively managed its resources and is able provide one of the best services in the world to desired tourists. In the process of adopting new skills and systems, the mindsets and cultures have to develop and resistance at any level of the organisation need to be handled with lot of care. (Jackson and Harris, 2003) Thomas Cook has effectively used mySAP Consume Relation management system to provide quality services to the customer and at the same time limiting their expenditures on publicity or promotion of the product. The process of innovation and implementing new methods in work place has paid off for Thomas Cook. It was a bold step to adopt the ICT system into a traditional tourist sector. Thus, we can conclude by saying that ICT has played an important role in the development of the tourism industry and enable the customers to enjoy better services that they deserve. Although there is this trust issue regarding e-commerce and its uses but more people are using this facility every day. References: Arusha, T. (2000, february). Information Communication Technologies (ICT) and Tourism. Retrieved may 23, 2010, from www.nric.net: http://www.nric.net/tourism/sidebar/ICT.pdf Boyd, D. M. (2007). Journal of computer mediated communications , 210-230. Fitzgerald, A. . (n.d.). INtroduction to information systems in business. Retrieved may 23, 2010, from www.comp.glam.ac.uk: http://www.comp.glam.ac.uk/pages/staff/tdhutchings/chapter1.html Global, S. (n.d.). Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software From SAP. Retrieved may 24, 2010, from www.sap.com: http://www.sap.com/solutions/business-suite/crm/index.epx Group, T. C. (n.d.). www.thomascookgroup.com. Retrieved may 23, 2010, from Business segments and brands: http://www.thomascookgroup.com/segments Jackson, P. (n.d.). Ebusiness and organisational change. Journal of organisational change management , 497-511. Juline E.Mills, R. L. (2005). Handbook of Consumer Behavior, Tourism and the Internet. Haworth press. Kozinets. (1999). Staregic implications of virtual comunities of consumption. European mamagement , 252-264. netstarter. (n.d.). e commerce barriers and opportunities. Retrieved may 22, 2010, from www.netstarter.com: http://www.netstarter.com.au/Content_Common/pg-ecommerce-Benefits-Barriers.seo Roberto daniele, A. j. (n.d.). Tour operator in an ebusiness world. Retrieved may 23, 2010, from www.googlebooks.com: http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=s9f5_kvYrZoCpg=PA207lpg=PA207dq=thomas+cook+information+and+communication+technologysource=blots=KkiM3J5HGosig=iL2qLClFWLyN8wzC6Dgx3PXScUchl=enei=1vykS5jQFIS80gTFitT1CQsa=Xoi=book_resultct=resultresnum=9ved= SAP customer success story, Reatil-tourism marketing. (n.d.). Retrieved may 22, 2010, from www.sap.com: http://www.sap.com/solutions/business-suite/crm/pdf/CS_ThomasCook%20.pdf Seveg, M. B. (1997). The Impact of Electronic Commerce on the Travel Industry. California. Shanker, D. (n.d.). ICT and Tourism: Challenges and Opportunities. Retrieved may 24, 2010, from www.dspace.iimk.ac.in: http://dspace.iimk.ac.in/bitstream/2259/536/1/50-58.pdf Shin, N. (n.d.). STRATEGIES FOR COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE IN ELECTRONIC COMMERCE. Retrieved may 22, 2010, from www.csulb.edu: http://www.csulb.edu/web/journals/jecr/issues/20014/paper4.pdf Sigala, m. (n.d.). Tour operators in an e business world. Retrieved may 23, 2010, from www.books.google.com: http://books.google.co.uk/books?id=s9f5_kvYrZoCpg=PA207lpg=PA207dq=thomas+cook+information+and+communication+technologysource=blots=KkiM3J5HGosig=iL2qLClFWLyN8wzC6Dgx3PXScUchl=enei=1vykS5jQFIS80gTFitT1CQsa=Xoi=book_resultct=resultresnum=9ved= Thomas, D. (2002, june 27). Holidaymakers take plunge into Internet booking pool. Retrieved may 22, 2010, from www.computerweekly.com: http://www.computerweekly.com/Articles/2002/06/27/188052/holidaymakers-take-plunge-into-internet-booking-pool.htm

Solar Energy What Will Save Our Earth Environmental Sciences Essay

Solar Energy What Will Save Our Earth Environmental Sciences Essay Around the world, everyone seems to have green on their minds. However, this isnt green as in money, this green deals with the green movement. The green movement was started by environmentalists, whose goal it was to make known we are damaging our earth and that we need to make changes to save it. The main focus of the green movement is to create alternative energy sources for the world to use instead of depleting our fossil fuel energy resources. With fossil fuels being non-renewable resources, we all must recognize the energy problem and work towards other options. Eric McLamb, in his online article on energys future today, states non-renewable fossil fuels were  formed from plants and animals that lived hundreds of millions of years ago and became buried way underneath the Earths surface where their remains collectively transformed into the combustible materials we use for fuel.  (McLamb, 1) Without our supply of fossil fuels, society would fail to exist as it does today. Our most common fossil fuels today are oil, coal and natural gas, giving us our heat and electricity. Eric McLamb continued on to state,  This means that fossil fuels, along with nuclear energy-a controversial, nonrenewable energy source- are supplying 93% of the worlds energy resources.  (McLamb, 1)   We obtain most of our fossil fuels through a mining process. During the various mining processes, the surrounding environment can be highly damaged. Numerous oil spills have occurring while mining, damaging large areas of our ocean ecosystems. In addition to damaging water, the mining of coal strips enormous pieces of land, destroying our land ecosystems. Our ecosystems are being destroyed, as well as our atmosphere. When burned, fossil fuels release large amount of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. The carbon dioxide in turn contributes greatly towards our planets global warming epidemic, which then creates other issues. With global warming causing temperatures to rise, ice in places such as Antarctica, is melting causing ocean water to rise and negatively impact its surrounding ecosystems and other bodies of water.  Rising sea levels alone can impede processes ranging from settlement, agriculture and fishing both commercially and recreationally. Air pollution is also a direct r esult of the use of fossil fuels, resulting in smog and the degradation of human health and plant growth. (McLamb, 1)   By the year 2020, world energy consumption is projected to increase by 50% If the global consumption of renewable energy sources remains constant, the worlds available fossil fuel reserves will be consumed in 104 years or in the 22nd century.(McLamb, 1) With our non-renewable resources depleting and our population continually growing, the need for other energy sources will not be decreasing anywhere in the near future. The energy sources being considered today center around natural elements; wind, solar, and water energy sources. All of these sources are efficient, renewable, and healthy for our environment. For the purpose of this essay, I chose to focus strictly on solar energy. More specifically, I chose to focus on the benefits and detriments of solar energy on the U.S environmentally.  I strongly believe that the U.S. needs to make the switch to solar energy and would environmentally benefit from doing so. Solar energy is radiant energy from the sun, which is then harnessed and used to produce electricity. Solar energy began in the 7th century, using glass and the sun to make fire. Through the years the need for solar energy has increased and is used today to heat rooms, heat water, and generate electricity. In order to heat rooms and water, the radiant energy from the suns rays must be captured. It is difficult to capture rays because they are so spread out, the concentrations very dramatically. NEED, The National Energy Education Development Program, shares about how much solar energy that is available depends on  the time of day, the season of the year, and the clearness or cloudiness of the sky.  (Solar, 40) Once the energy is caught, it needs to be transformed into usable energy. The main processes to transform the rays into energy are photovoltaic, solar power towers or by burning biomass. Photovoltaic cells are the most common and efficient way to convert solar energy. An enthusiast, Marissa Schiff, states in her article Why the U.S. Should Rely More Heavily Upon Solar Energy, The photovoltaic effect occurs when sunlight is absorbed by the cells that are similar to computer chips. The solar energy in this instance gets the electrons moving by separating them from their atoms which allows the electrons to move through the material and thus creates electricity.(Schiff, 2) Silicon is the most common material used in photovoltaic cells and they are most efficiently used in rural settings. Another way to convert solar into energy is through solar power towers, also known as central receivers. Schiff continues on to address solar power towers that generate energy from sunlight because they concentrate solar energy onto a tower which has a receiver on the top that converts energy and creates steam.  (Schiff, 2) Solar power towers are ideally for more populated areas, such as large cities. Lastly, a common way to convert the harnessed energy is through the burning of biomass. Schiff states,  the biomass produces usable energy because it contains energy stored from the sun through the process of photosynthesis.  (Schiff, 2) The burning of the biomass releases heat, which in turn can heat up buildings and can be used to create steam to generate electricity. When speaking of solar power, people tend to think of the positive effects it has on our environment. However, there are many detriments when it comes to the existence of many solar power plants. For example, the Solar Energy Development Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement website states, All utility-scale solar energy facilities require relatively large areas for solar radiation collection when used to generate electricity at a commercial scale, and the large arrays of solar collectors may interfere with natural sunlight, rainfall, and drainage, which could have a variety of effects on plants and animals.  (Solar Energy, 1) The loss of land could damage many animals habitats, as well as stop current land use. For example, the land may currently be used for the grazing of sheep or even an archeological site. Also, most solar power plants would chose to use photovoltaic cell panels to capture the suns rays. These photovoltaic panels, although they have a coating on them, cou ld be damaged and release harmful chemicals into our environment. As the Solar Energy Development PEIS points out, concentrating solar power systems may employ liquids such as oils or molten salts that may be hazardous and present spill risks.  (Solar Energy, 1) In addition to damaging the land, the water sources surrounding the solar power plant may be damaged. Many solar power plants use turbines to generate the electricity after captured by the panels. These turbines use water for cooling purposes. As many solar power plants would be located in arid, hot climates, the water sources would already be limited. If a solar plant was to be built in such a place, there would be an increased strain on the water reserves. Another thought is if the water was contaminated accidently while cooling in the turbine, it could contaminate the entire water supply. Overall solar power plants could possibly cause a lot of damage to our environment. They are massive facilities that would have to be treated much like that of a construction site, with extreme caution. Although there are several possible detriments to our environment, if we choose to convert to solar our environment would be greatly saved. Solar energy, along with all renewable resources, does not pollute our air and is quiet efficient. Solar energy would reduce global warming due to carbon dioxide emissions because it doesnt emit any at all. Solar energy also does not release nitrogen oxide or sulfur dioxide into our atmosphere, which would reduce smog and acid rain. (Schiff, 1) Also, as previously addressed, we must make the switch to solar energy in order to conserve our remaining fossil fuels so that we dont run out within the next 104 years as proposed. Fossil fuels must be mined; solar on the other hand does not. Solar would reduce the waste that occurs through these mining processes that negatively effects our environment, such as dust, drainage and emissions. Finally, the efficiency of fossil fuels for electricity is relatively low. McLamb states,  When you burn these fossil fuels to create electricity, we only convert about 35% of the energy produced into electricity; the other 65% is lost mostly in heat.  (McLamb, 1) As our fossil fuels are steadily depleting we need a reliable energy source with a higher efficiency. Although single solar cells have relatively low efficiency, when millions are combined to create an entire solar power system, the efficiency increases. Since the sun is everlasting, the efficiency isnt as big of a deal as in the case of our fossil fuels. As our fossil fuels continue to deplete, everyone from environmentalists to national oil companies, are recognizing the fact that we must decide on an alternative energy source for our nation.  Ã‚  Through the evidence collected here, it is clear solar energy has its benefits and detriments, but it is understandably the best energy alternative.  Although solar energy does present some detriments to our environment, they are only possibilities, not proven facts.  Ã‚  The fact is that solar energy is dramatically better for our environment than todays fossil fuels.  Ã‚  Initially expensive, yet worthwhile in the long run, environmentally-friendly solar energy is the direction the U.S. should be heading.     Ã‚   MLA Works Cited McLamb, Eric. ecology.com | Fossil Fuels vs. Renewable Energy.  The Ecology Global Network | Ecology News and Information for Residents of Planet Earth. N.p., n.d. Web. 21 Nov. 2012. . Schiff, Marissa , and Jason Vaupen. Economic Benefits.  Why the U.S. Should Rely More Heavily Upon Solar Energy. N.p., n.d. Web. 22 Nov. 2012. . Solar.  Solar at a Glance 2008. The NEED Project, n.d. Web. 21 Nov. 2012. . Solar Energy Development Environmental Considerations.  Solar Energy Development PEIS Information Center. N.p., n.d. Web. 25 Nov. 2012. .

Business Ownership Types :: essays research papers

There are different types of ownership within the business sector. Sole tradership is when the business is fully owned and managed by one person, though others can be employed to help run the business. As the sole traders only financial income is from the business and/or bank loan, they do not have the resources to expand and cover regional or national areas. These types of businesses are located in the small business sector and usually cover local areas. Such businesses could be hairdressers, corner shops or market stalls etc. Sole traderships have unlimited liability so if the business fails to pay its debts the financial responsibility falls on the owner/s to pay the debts in full even if they have to sell their business, personal possessions and assets. Another example of business ownership is a partnership. Examples of partnerships used in business are accounting firms and solicitors firms. A partnership has two or more owners. They work, manage and are responsible for the running of the business. Individual partners may concentrate on a certain aspect of the business where they have expert knowledge. As there is more than one owner, larger amounts of capital can be fed into the business via personal funding or bank loans. Partnerships have an unlimited liability. There are two types of limited companies: Private and public. Shareholders own private limited companies. Members of the public cannot buy the shares and the shareholders cannot buy or sell their shares without agreement from the other shareholders. Family owned businesses or larger businesses such as Virgin would fit into this category. Public limited companies have shares on the stock market and can be bought and sold by any member of the public, this way the company can raise further capital and expand their resources. Tesco and British Telecom are such examples. Both these types of limited companies have limited liability, which means the owners of the business are only liable for the amount they invested in the business (unless the debt is so large that the business has to be sold to repay the debt). Co-operatives are companies that are owned by a group of people (members) who have shares in the company. Shares can start as little as  £1 and each member has a share in the Co-operative. It is the members (shareholders) who finance the co-operative and they control on how the business and profits are run.

Chemistry: Acid-base Titration Essay -- essays research papers

Chemistry: Acid-Base Titration Purpose:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The objective of this experiment were: a) to review the concept of simple acid-base reactions; b) to review the stoichiometric calculations involved in chemical reactions; c) to review the basic lab procedure of a titration and introduce the student to the concept of a primary standard and the process of standardization; d) to review the calculations involving chemical solutions; e) to help the student improve his/her lab technique. Theory:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Titration was used to study acid-base neutralization reaction quantitatively. In acid-base titration experiment, a solution of accurately KHP concentration was added gradually to another solution of NaOH concentration until the chemical reaction between the two solutions were completed. The equivalence point was the point at which the acid was completely reacted with or neutralized by the base. The point was signaled by a changing of color of an indicator that had been added to the acid solution. Indicator was substance that had distinctly different colors in acidic and basic media. Phenolphthalein was a common indicator which was colorless in acidic and neutral solutions, but reddish pink was result in basic solutions. Strong acid (contained H+ ion) and strong base ( contained OH ) were 100% ionized in water and they were all strong electrolytes. Procedure: Part A. Investigating solid NaOH for use as a possible primary standard First o...

Financial Institutions Essay

The best financial institution for the high debt and high income professionals looking to obtain insurance and investment advice and services is a financial planning services company such as Ameriprise Financial. Financial planning looks at life events and life goals such as retirement and estate planning and offers advice and provides products to help meet those goals. Many financial planning services companies also offer loans and deposit banking accounts. Generally one representative who is licensed to sell insurance, investments, and loans will work with this couple throughout their relationship with the company. The representative’s goal is to periodically review changes in life events and modify the couple’s insurance and investment portfolio to meet their changing goals and objectives. For this couple, the representative may suggest a product that combines insurance and investment such as an annuity or universal life insurance. The couple can establish a relationship with a financial services firm in a local branch or through an interactive website maintained by the company. In some cases the bank that they are already established with may have a financial planning division that they can access in the local branch or through the bank website. Scenario B The best financial institution for a student looking to establish a checking or saving account, establish credit, and develop a relationship with a financial institution should consider a credit union. A credit union is similar to a bank in that it offers deposit accounts and loan programs, but differs from banks in that credit unions are non-profit organizations that are owned and operated by members as opposed to being owned by stockholders and operated by executive boards. Credit unions generally offer higher interest rates on savings accounts, lower fees on checking accounts, and lower interest rates on loans and credit cards. Credit union membership is generally tied to an organization such as a labor union, many large corporations have employee credit unions, some churches or communities have credit unions for members. This student can establish a credit union relationship through parents or may become employed in a local business that offers credit union membership as an employee benefit. Organizations like the Credit Union National Association provides resources and information for consumers. Scenario C The best financial institution for a small business owner who needs multiple deposit and checking accounts, investment services, and access to branches in other cities should consider a national bank such as Bank of America that has branches nationwide as well as online account access. Bank of America, and similar national banks, offer online payroll processing, credit card processing for retailers, and provide businesses with the option of importing bank statement information into popular accounting software formats such as Quicken, QuickBooks, and Microsoft Money. National banks have departments dedicated to small business lending and offer various types of Small Business Administration (SBA) loans. They also have services to meet the needs of specialty industries including financing and leasing partnerships with auto dealers. The business owner can establish a relationship with a banking professional at a local branch or can establish accounts online. National banks generally have extensive, interactive websites which provide information and guidance on establishing the business banking relationship. References Ameriprise Financial. Financial planning advice and financial advisors. Retrieved March 11, 2009, from http://www. ameriprise. com/default-home . asp Bank of America. Small business loans, payroll services & other small business services. Retrieved March 11, 2009, from https://www. bankofamerica. com/smallbus iness/index. jsp Credit Union National Association, Consumer Info. America’s credit unions: where people are worth more than money. Retrieved March 11, 2009, from http://www. creditunion. coop/what_is_a_ cu. html

Philosophy: On the Elucidation of various Philosophers Essay

The Age of Reason is an impetus for arrival of new stance regarding cosmogenesis or natural philosophy since new scientific advancements are being discovered. During this time, Age of Reason becomes the emancipating precursor from shackles of dogmatism that held the classical skepticism and religious perspective of the cosmos. The principal precursor in the change of thought is Rene Descartes who rebels against the dogmatism of his present time, while providing valid arguments on doubting and on ideas in relation to Providence, thus his philosophy landscaped a new philosophical stance during the Age of Reason. Descartes is the first philosopher who goes against a prevalent thinking established during the Dark Ages, which only accepts ideas bounded by the church. Descartes’ definitive doubt is the mirror image of his definitive certainty. Having raised, as he claims, all possible doubts, he will be able subsequently to claim that whatever principles survive his skeptical scrutiny has been established with metaphysical finality. Classical skepticism, even if used as a methodological device, could support no such claim. With the emergence of a new idea, the balance, even if at present dramatically tipped, might always be restored or even tipped the other way. Ordinary doubting, and its sophisticated extension, classical isosthenia, are always contingent on the current state of knowledge. They offer no test for absolute certainty. The first point Descartes makes is that he cannot trust his senses without qualification, because they have often deceived him about objects that are barely perceptible or very far away. Nevertheless, this leaves untouched beliefs about objects close by and in plain view. To call these in question, he needs the dreaming argument. But even the dreaming argument, as Descartes understands it, leaves unscathed beliefs about things that are ‘very simple and very general’, and to undermine the credibility of these, he has to raise questions about his origin, nature, and relation to Providence, a line of thought encapsulated in the conceit of the evil deceiver. Moreover, even this final, hyperbolical doubt seems implicitly to concede Descartes some knowledge. This stratification of doubt imposes a corresponding stratification of knowledge. Through the progressive development of his doubt, Descartes effects a context- and subject-matter-independent partitioning of his beliefs into broad epistemological classes, ordered according to how difficult it is to doubt them. First in the order come the beliefs that are never doubted, subsequently to be identified as those that involve Descartes’ immediate knowledge of his own ‘thoughts’, whose exemption will be retrospectively justified on the grounds of their supposed incorrigibility. The progressive development of Cartesian doubt insinuates, without ever directly arguing for, a foundational conception of knowledge, the view of knowledge that sees justification as constrained by just the sort of context- and subject-matter-independent order of epistemic priority that is implicit in Descartes’ stratified doubt. One of the major criticisms in Descartes philosophical stance is its appeal to epistemological solipsism, which means that everything an individual thinks is to be considered as truth. In epistemological solipsism, all ideas that reside in the mind are indubitable truth, and those that exist in the external world are nothing but unnecessary hypothesis. The problem here is that Descartes failed to realize that the there is a certain extent wherein human mind cannot explain or elucidate certain ideas that can be elucidated through empirical ways. On Hegel Geist makes itself what it implicitly is, its deed, and its works; in that way it has itself before its own eyes as object. So is the spirit of a people. . . . In these its works, its world, the spirit of a people finds enjoyment of itself and is satisfied. Lectures on the Philosophy of History) We come to self-awareness by finding ourself in our ‘Other’, that which is distinct from us, set over against us. So if the Idea is to rise to self-consciousness, as the ultimate purpose of things demands, there will have to be something set in opposition to it which is its ‘Other’, and yet which is at the same time a reflection of it. And so there is: nature, concrete where the Idea is abstract, particular where it is universal, thing where it is thought, but none the less its embodiment and manifestation, in Hegel’s vocabulary ‘identical’ with it. Geist, the third element of the great triad, arises out of this opposition of intimately related items which provides the necessary basis for the emergence of self-consciousness. The better Geist’s grasp of this ‘identity’ the closer has the Idea come to full consciousness of its own essence. The dialectical progression which Hegel saw in cultural forms and social institutions, in short in the life of the human race, he also saw in the life of the individual; the fall from childhood happiness and its reattainment so hardly won, the suffering that goes with nobility of soul and the subsequent recovery of joy. He is also able to assimilate the story of the fall of man, treating it as mythical representation of aspects of the history of mankind which are then played out again in each human life. It tells of a fall from a state of unthinking, unknowing wholeness to one of separation and the pain that comes from consciousness of it. And in his diagnosis Hegel seizes another chance to link arms with a theme of romantic as well as religious literature: what brings this fall about is the increase of knowledge. ‘Would I had never gone to your schools! is Hyperion’s cry; and what so afflicted the graceful youth of Kleist’s tale was knowledge as well, the realization of his own beauty; for Schiller, writing ‘Die Gotter Griechen-lands’, it was the knowledge of the natural scientist which had banished spirit from the world and left it alien and hollow. Historicism for Hegel is defined as a means of understanding the world and all human activities in terms of the histo rical context of the world and such activities; anything is circumstantiated based on the history of a given phenomenon. Historicism is important because it concretized the mechanism of dialectical materialism such as the thesis, antithesis, and synthesis of the event. Organicism is a means of understanding a single developing organism operates on its interdependent parts, in order to grasp its whole meaning in terms of human psyche and behavior. Hegel develops this idea along lines indicated by his highly individual conception of logic and strongly encouraged by the communal romantic metaphysic. Precisely because the dialectic works, in Hegel’s view, with fluid boundaries, the connections it reveals to us are invisible to the understanding. Reason, by virtue of its appreciation of fluidity and its disdain for divisive conceptual barriers, in short by its acceptance of the romantic principle of Unity-in-Difference as a principle of logic, is to let us see the aspect of identity between items which Verstand had hitherto represented as unalterably different and opposed. Hegel’s dialectics influenced Karl Marx in conceiving a utopian society with his structuring of Dialectical Materialism. Hegel also influenced Marx in terms of his stance on master-slave relationship, which is viewed by the former as the prevalent form of government. Hegel rebels against it because the person is deemed as a thing. On Husserl My transcendental method is transcendental-phenomenological. It is the ultimate fulfillment of old intentions, especially those of English empiricist philosophy, to investigate the transcendental-phenomenological â€Å"origins† †¦ the origins of objectivity in transcendental subjectivity, the origin of the relative being of objects in the absolute being of consciousness. Husserl’s lectures of 1923–1924) Edmund Husserl’s transformation of phenomenology from an unfortunately named â€Å"descriptive psychology† to transcendental idealism thus extended the earlier critique of naturalism and psychologism in logic to philosophical naturalism generally. The crucial move in this transition is the methodological procedure of the pheno menological reduction, the suspending or â€Å"bracketing† or â€Å"putting out of action† all of the existential posits of the natural attitude. Considered as a â€Å"transcendental†, this operation first opens up the â€Å"absolute being of pure consciousness†, the â€Å"residuum of the world’s annihilation† (Residuum der Weltvernichtung). With it, phenomenology necessarily becomes transcendental inasmuch as phenomenological investigation is concerned to give an exhaustive description of this revealed region of â€Å"transcendental subjectivity† together with its structures of intentionality. Consequent to the phenomenological reduction, all reality (Realitat), ideal as well as actual, is exhibited as having being in virtue of â€Å"sense-bestowal† (Sinngebung), and indeed, the notion of an â€Å"absolute reality† independent of consciousness is as nonsensical as that of a â€Å"round square†. By the same token, â€Å"pure consciousness†, the ultimate origin of all â€Å"sense-bestowal†, â€Å"exists absolutely and not by virtue of another (act of) sense-bestowal†. It is the ultimate conferee of sense or meaning, the source of all representations, and so of all objectivity. Martin Heidegger position on second intuition is greatly influenced by Husserl. Like Husserl, Heidegger also espoused that in order to elucidate a phenomenon, one must take into account all the descriptive experience of that phenomenon, and this understood in Husserl’s term as intentionality and for Heidegger it is care. Hence, for Heidegger phenomenology is encapsulated in the catchphrase: â€Å"to the things in themselves†. Jean-Paul Sartre Transcendence of the Ego is greatly affected by Husserl’s intentionality. Sartre elucidates how the power of consciousness and intentionality can unravel or show the authenticity of object in relation to the being, and of course of the ontology of the being-for-itself. For Sartre, constitution should not be misconstrued as means of â€Å"creation† because the former should only be viewed in context of consciousness. Hence, constitution is a way of conceiving things that surrounds the being, or when being makes sense of the things that surrounds him/her. And through constitution, being is able to individuate himself/herself from other beings and the tings that surround the being. Thus, objects are elucidated in their own-ness and the object of consciousness is ego, which is a departure from Husserl. On the other hand, Soren Kierkegaard influenced Sartre in terms of objectification the being, which can lead to angst or nausea, and bad faith. Kierkegaard posits that the crowd can lead to the objectification of the being that can cause fear, and eventually leads to untruth. Sartre postulates that once the being is consumed by the others and being-in-itself, the being is automatically in bad faith and objectified, thus losing its authenticity. On Plato and Aristotle Plato’s theory of forms suggests that the world that we know of and that which we live in is not the real and objective world. This world is where the material objects exist, and the very material objects are not the essences of these very objects. Rather, in the Platonic view, real objects are the forms, such that latter is the very essence of these objects, that it is where objects of the material world are framed upon. These forms are not of this material world but exist instead in the world of forms or ideas. Thus, real knowledge for Plato is not the commonsensical notion of knowledge derived from what we directly experience through our senses but is rather the knowledge of the forms. To know and understand the forms is to know the very essence of things. Hence, this leads to the dichotomization of world of object and world of ideas, in which the latter is the end-all of all things, or the truth in-itself. Quite on the contrary, Aristotle believes that knowledge can be obtained empirically and that a grasp of the nature of things can be acquired through careful observation of phenomena. The senses of man, then, pose great centrality to Aristotle’s method of arriving at the understanding of objects. Through the use of sensory perception, one can obtain the critical facts which are directly observable from the object and are constitutive of its physical existence. The observation on objects allows one to acquire the basic information about the object. The corresponding sensory experience on the object creates the very core of what seems to be the ultimate components that comprise the very form of the object of the perception. The way the objects represent themselves before the senses is the real way things are as they are. Roughly speaking, the very form of the object is its unique characteristic which is primarily constitutive of its overall existence. The very essence of objects for Aristotle cannot be separated from the object itself and, hence, the way to understand the essence of a thing is to experience the object through sensory perception. Aristotle tries to arrive at generalizations out of specific observations. More generally, he attempts at proceeding to the general knowledge on the essences of things from an analysis of specific phenomena. This ascent from particulars to generalizations is considered to be inductive in principle and deductive to a certain extent since these generalizations derived can then be utilized as the general claim upon which specific claims can be inferred from. Yet, broadly speaking, Aristotle’s logic revolves around the notion of deduction (sullogismos). Aristotle then says of deduction: A deduction is speech (logos) in which, certain things having been supposed, something different from those supposed results of necessity because of their being so. (Prior Analytics I. 2, 24b18-20) Thus, the form of an object for Aristotle is its specific characteristic, its very essence or essential attribute manifested by its physical existence or the very fact that it is tangible, and this we can derive principally through the use of deduction and of logic in general to our immediate sensory perception of objects. On the other hand, Plato’s method of philosophizing is seen to be as deductive in nature. From an understanding of the universals or generalizations, specifically that of the forms, man can derive the particulars through contemplation on the objects, objects which are mere imitations of the forms in the Platonic sense. Thus, Plato’s mode of inference can be seen as a descent from the general a priori principles down to the specifics.