The second World War Essay Example for Free

The second World War Essay D-day was heralded as first enormous invasion of the allied on German claimed soil. The army generals and the government wanted to give the impression of complete power and might in their final push to abolish the Nazi slavery of Europe now they had the backing of America and Canada. It was perceived as almost a religious crusade, as though God was supporting their every move so it couldnt possibly fail. This confidence and sense of glory made the war seem more justifiable as people felt they were serving the righteous side. People on the home front were well informed of the fact the British were not defending but were on the offensive, this change in situations inspired people on the home front who were growing tired of the continuing news on the Atlantic battles and artillery battles. This mighty push was seen as courageous and raised peoples hope that the end was nigh. Churchill was in charge and was organising the campaign at this crucial juncture so the whole nation was on tenterhooks to receive his commands. The nation was made to feel everything depended on this mission, as it flooded the press. This encouraged the country to work even harder to achieve this goal and also worry less about the long-term situation as they were focusing on the present. When the troops landed on the coast of France and Normandy it was seen as histories greatest oversees operation which was true, but also glossed over the fact that they still had a bloody battle at a disadvantaged position once they reached mainland. Evacuation The war was expected several years before 1939 and preparations were already taking place before its declaration to move children into more rural and predicted safer areas. Away from the densely populated cities and industrial places where German bombers would likely target when the war commenced. Other preparations were made to limit causalities in the of air raids and predicted gas attacks; gas masks were compulsory items to have, thousands of Anderson shelters were erected for people to hide in during raids, rationing began to help soldiers and make sure everyone was kept healthy, the local defence volunteers and many other similar organisations were established to help and warn people in raids, signals e. g.sirens were created and the blackout was enforced to prevent German pilots from pinpointing a certain location. The community were encouraged to be involved in all these preparations, which also made them aware of the imminent threat posed by bombing thus persuading them to leave their children in the houses of strangers. In 1939 there was the largest mass evacuation of people in Britains history, from major cities and 3. 5 million people were arranged to be evacuated to reception areas. Most were normal children, others from schools and hospitals etc. This huge amount of people who were confused and uneducated about the situation inevitably posed many problems to the process. For a start most people had no idea of where they were heading, for they were not told before hand and the number of evacuees far out numbered the people willing to house them. This was all due to poor organisation by the government, despite notifying people about the plans months before. But considering the sheer amount of people involved the process run smoothly in the governments perspective and many evacuations worked with out a hitch. The government had also set up first aid stations showing they were obviously attempting to cope with all the inevitable problems that would arise. Many very poor children would arrive at reception areas with various health conditions such as scabies, lice and due to cold weather and lack of adequate clothing cold burns often formed. The clinics provided basic care before they were sent to hosts. On their identity cards they has health related information and often the kids that appeared unhealthy would be unfairly treated and hosts would be less likely to want them. The government tried to persuade families to separate from their loved ones by using propaganda. The predictions of casualties e. g. 4,000,000 in London far surpassed the actual figures and were there fore grossly exaggerated. Britain had been expecting air attacks for many years as the hostilities and threats had been building for several years before the war. Leaflets and Posters were important techniques of spreading their message about the evil extent Hitler would undertake to achieve his aims. This, initially discouraging and potential fear mongering way, proved to be effective as people were more intensely willing to participate in order to save their people and foil Hitlers plans to destroy public morale. The fact they used propaganda so wide spread proves people obviously needed a lot of convincing and the dark nature of the propaganda ( as in source B7 ) suggests the government were desperate to make an impact in order to attain their goal of the complete evacuation of children from cities. Subsequently when dealing with three million people there were many cases of disaster where the propaganda had inflicted panic instead of the hoped controlled movement. Sir John Anderson who as organising evacuation did not help this emotional upheaval, as he had a cold and detached not understanding nature. Evacuation was established to firstly protect people especially children from the threat of bombing. Children were obviously the most crucial group of people for they would continue the next generation. This also kept morale high as people in battle and working at home knew their children were safe and didnt have to worry about them being killed or injured in air raids. It also allowed rural communities not involved so much in the war effort feel occupied and of use thus supporting positive morale in these areas too. However, the fact that children were sent to random homes meant that they had to deal with whatever situation they were landed in, often their were clashes of class and social statue, sometimes this resulted in a positive outcome as poor children found themselves in welcoming circumstances. This sudden mix of classes had never occurred before, as people who lived totally separate and different life styles had to live side by side and deal with the prejudice that had been fed to them through society over countless generations. This new perspective to life sometimes highlighted the conflicts between people but often created a sense of unity in the face of a common enemy. This mystery of a new experience often initially excited children and many had a very interesting and free time when away from the city and the stress and restraints that went with it. Others, particularly younger children missed their homes and parents dreadfully and did not enjoy the peculiar circumstances they were forced into. The children themselves were all labelled so they could be identified and told to take a few essential possessions. When they reached the trains stations and bus stations they were filed onto the transport and many were separated from their parents and placed into groups with a guardian of one of the 100,000 teachers participating. Over 3,000,000 were evacuated in the first 4 days of September, which by any terms is an astonishing feat of organisation and co-ordination. When the order was sent at 11:07 August 31st few imagined that within a week a quarter of the population would have been evacuated. The stations were dense with people saying their good byes or finding luggage or lost siblings, this caused great confusion and the distress of moving to an unknown location built up tensions of fear resulting in anger. Smaller children who didnt understand the situation must have felt distraught at leaving their parents, these early traumatic experiences must have left deep impressions, especially as many were ignorant to when they would return. Others simply found it an exhilarating adventure and treated it like a holiday, particularly those who went to boarding schools. Those in the poverty stricken slums of the cities jumped at the opportunity to go to the country. Obviously in a movement this massive there was a great variation in opinions and attitudes towards evacuation but the underlying intension was similar for most people as they had seen the effects of severe bombing in other parts of the world-; do whats best for the country and its future unsurprisingly seemed the most important plan of action. This overall idea allowed stereotypical images to develop in peoples minds over how children had to deal with the situation e. g. Grin and bear it and dont complain. When reaching the reception areas local councils would line up the children and hosts simply picked their favourite. As this was often based on superficial first impressions many children were left feeling rejected and humiliated, this seemed a rudimentary way of selecting people, but in the end left no muddle over names and identities and matching people up. This random selection and the lack of restriction to who hosts could be occasionally left vulnerably children in dangerous hands of abusers. Because it was simply luck of the draw some had equally great experiences as expected and it is clear that only a minority, once settled had a miserable time. Ministry of health reporters issued statements declaring a glossy positive outlook of evacuation, so as not to worry the people and also the government, allowing people to begin concentrating no the more imminent problems of combat in war. Generally this statement is true as the main motivation to evacuate such large numbers was to save lives and this certainly worked, as the millions of estimated causalities did not happen and the country could run more smoothly because of this conclusion. In most cases people were more at ease with their childrens safety and there fore could focus on work and soldiers on the battle front. Women The Second World War affected the lives of women dramatically. Since the late 1800s women like the suffragettes had been protesting for womens rights as they were discontented with societies attitude to women as being inferior and demanded more equality between the sexs. Although through the early 1920s women did gain the right to vote and became more acceptable in some work arenas e. g. nurses clerks typists (jobs considered appropriate for women), the opportunities had only opened slightly, but the reality was most women performed exactly the same role as previously. However, many women were settled in the traditional way of life they led and felt the home was their first priority and there fore didnt particularly feel the necessity to change. The government realised that due to the unusual circumstances it would be most practical to enrol the services of women to fill the occupation vacancies in industry whilst vast numbers of men were recruited into war. Originally many government ministers were reluctant to conscript women in to work, arguing that a womans responsibilities were in the home caring for children. However, as more men left it became more important to keep the country producing munitions etc. instead of women simply staying at home, so the government lead by chamberlain agreed to ask for womens volunteer assistance. They made a national campaign advertising for help in a huge range of jobs, using posters, billboards, leaflets etc and encouraged applicants by saying it was imperative for the war effort. Many people were initially surprised at the unprecedented mass surge of women who signed up for industry working and the land army. Particularly after the depression of the thirties many working class women jumped at the new opportunities that had aroused and were motivated by the promise of money of their own. A minority of women objected to war work believing it detracted from their house work and others detested the prejudice that occurred and the lack of equal treatment; the fact women were paid 60% of an equivalent male employer, this proves how women were seen as less productive and skilled as a man. It also shows how society expected women to work for the good of the nation even with lower wages and how most women just accepted this. Many women who enrolled for work had never been away from home or worked for an income before and took on the new opportunities with enthusiasm and determination. The country was finally willingly giving women the chance to show their capability to perform in areas they had never had access to previously, this encouraged women to work to their limits. Government officials made reports of the exceptional standard of work occurring in the factories by newly appointed women and how it equalled if not excelled that of the prior male labourers. The new work and money entitled women to be more independent and opinionated. As they become more liberated and confident in their positions, some began to demand more equality for they realised the worth of their aid. The whole population became more and more involved in the war effort and the new workforce was described as soldiers with different weapons, hence the name given to this condition total war. Women in the home looking after the family also found themselves in new situations as the head of the family was always the man or husband and in most cases he had been sent to war. These women now had to organise and take the responsibilities of the man; they were now the dominant figure in the family, which had hardly ever occurred before. The decisions women made were complicated by the limitations of the rationing of food, clothing and general materials. They were in charge of the ration booklets for the family and had to pool all the coupons they received to obtain food and other items. Because civilians were targeted during the war they also had to deal with temporary housing, evacuation and ensuring everyone was safe during bombing raids. Often women like this joined the local civil defence or nursing posts to help their community. They were depended on to manage serious situations in bombing raids and such like, that before the war would have been considered too important to be arranged by a woman. Many women there fore felt more appreciated and occupied than previously, so wanted to contribute. The government enthused this attitude by using positive propaganda suggesting how useful and essential womens work was. Posters of physically fit women doing hard jobs and showing satisfaction in their work were often used. This rose the morale of many women and made them more unified with the war effort which obviously helped in the manufacturing of munitions, saving food for soldiers, keeping the economy stable and saving lives on the home front. Many were encouraged to attend USO balls where they danced and befriended lonely soldiers, young women had freedom social as well, and this also allowed them to enjoy the war and the new experiences it entailed. Due to the new independence women had acquired some found themselves more sexually liberated and due to their uneducated and ignorant ideas of sex found themselves in difficult positions with no one to understand or express their feeling to. The government at the time did not think to inform women about sex and its possibly consequences, so occasionally there were cased of illegitimate children being born and mothers being shamed by their peers. However, the government did publish leaflets containing information on ways to become self sufficient e. g.growing vegetables making food that was healthy and of good value, being resourceful with all house hold equipment, making suitable cloths and recycling materials etc. all these suggestions aided women in their duties and showed how they could be generally more efficient. Government posters were used to make people, especially women aware of the consequences of wasting products in a time of shortages e. g. the cartoon character squander bug. Posters were also produced highlighting the significance of not discussing the war in public in case German secret agents were listening. All these legitimate warnings kept peoples minds focused on why they were doing what they were doing and there fore prevented opposition from other people who didnt agree with women having the authority they did. All the concerns and anxieties over what was socially acceptable made the war an exciting yet confusing time for women. They had to combine their traditional values with this new independence, but also keep in mind it was a temporary situation and whatever happened in their lives now was likely to change again when the men returned from war.

Micro Credit In Mauritius Social Work Essay

Micro Credit In Mauritius Social Work Essay Abstract In this study, the impact of micro-credit as a poverty alleviation strategy in Mauritius is analyzed. A close link is made between microcredit and empowerment of women through different chapters and how it helps to empower Mauritian women. Women are empowered when they are able to take decisions, have their own roles and responsibilities, are independent, educated and are ready to face discriminations which exists due to deep norms and values of society. Income is the main concept of this study because data collected have proved that microcredit helped to increase income generated through these women business. This study has raised many questions because it is observed that microcredit tend to empower economically but very less in social terms. Findings have showed that women situation have changed but not that far compared to other countries where microcredit is very popular. Still, microcredit has encouraged women be follow trainings and develop their skills, and promoted participa tion in activities of society mainly economic activities. On the other side microcredit is also a vicious circle of debts for women who face difficulties to repay their loans which shows how microcredit create impoverishment of women which very is far from reducing poverty. CHAPTER 1.0: INTRODUCTION Poverty is usually defined as the lack of opportunities, lack of education and skills, and also in terms of standard of living. Poverty in Mauritius is not similar like other countries, whether someone lives in urban or rural areas is not valid to categorize him as poor. Poor people in Mauritius (mainly women) are often denied access to resources, to opportunities, education and training for development of skills. This is often the main reason why these people cannot cope with changes occurring in our Mauritians society, in terms of social and economical transitions (IFAD). There is a real concern to alleviate poverty a ministry of social security and social welfare has even been set up to tackle this problem. It is clear cut that poverty is not just an economic problem but also a social problem affecting life of Mauritians. The government work closely with NGOs and other institution, a National action plan has even been set up to promote economic growth. This includes improving educational system, providing financial support for investment ad micro-enterprises and micro-finance institutions (IFAD 2011). 1.2 Micro credit in Mauritius Microcredit started in July 2001; it was a project by the IFAD to promote Mauritian women through microenterprises. The aim of this project was to provide financial facilities and support to needy women and promote income-generating activities. Micro-credit is known as the key tool to poverty alleviation (Grameen bank). Micro-credit scheme in Mauritius has brought progress and attracted women there are more than 3,500 women registered as entrepreneurs (Nwec 2010). They are even given financial facilities like Microcredit loans for their business. The Development Bank of Mauritius (DBM) and cooperative bank provides with loans at lower interest rates Trade fairs are organized to these women to expose their product and even Awards ceremony are organized every year to reward the best women entrepreneurs. The ministry of Gender Equality and child welfare set up micro credit programmes to target women in poverty. Together with other institution like NGOs and banks, which provide further contributions to assist needy women. In Mauritius, the National Women Entrepreneur Council is responsible for women entrepreneurs, providing trainings in their incubators found at Phoenix. Empowerment of women is very important for economic growth, that is why an empowerment programme has been set up in 2006 and the National empowerment Foundation (NEF) in 2008 to ensure the good purpose of the empowerment programme (NEF 2009). There are very few reports that 1.3 Problem statement It is a fact that micro-credit is very important to fight poverty and many studies have shown its positive impact in terms of standard of living, income, education, and health. However despite these strategies, poverty still remains (Mosley 2002). The main question is that has it really empowered women? By empowerment we mean women being emancipated, taking and participating in decision making access to employment and trainings. But statistics show a different result because women in the active economy represent only 43.7 % compared to men 75.5%, only 35.5 % of women in Mauritius work (CSO 2011). Microcredit was supposed to help in creating job opportunities for women, Statistics show that there is a population of 645 875 women, and the number of female-headed household in Mauritius and this wage gap which exist between men and women make them less economically active compared to men. Only 30% of women work in government services in Mauritius, it has been observed that 61% of women are unemployed and the rest that is 33% receive an income of Rs 4,000 compared to the 8% of men. Women income is around Rs 8,350 compared to men Rs 12,560, we are very far from reaching gender equality. How far has microcredit helped in poverty alleviation, are these strategies enough to combat poverty, how did it change or not image that society set on women and their role, responsibilities and economic activities are the questions this study will try to answer. Aim of study To assess the impact of micro-credit programme in poverty alleviation among women in Mauritius. Objectives of the study To evaluate the benefits of microcredit as poverty alleviation tool in Mauritius. To determine how microcredit promoted socio-economic development in Mauritius. To describe how micro-credit alleviate poverty through income-generated activities. To analyze how women empowerment through micro-credit helps to alleviate poverty in Mauritius. 1.4 Layout of study This study is organized as follows: Chapter 2 give deep explanations about main concepts used in this study and how they are linked. Another part of this chapter describes studies conducted on the impact of micro-credit on women and how it helps to alleviate poverty in other countries and how different authors view it, its effect on these countries and also problems they faced. Chapter 3 describes methods used to collect data for this study and why it is appropriate. Different parts of this chapter define the problems faced during data collection, how data will be analyzed and ethical considerations to be respected for this study. Chapter 4 provides an in-depth explanation of all findings during data collection and is followed by the discussion part where findings will be linked with other authors explanations from chapter 2.Chapter 5 is the conclusion, a summary of this study followed by recommendation which might help to bring better improvements to this field or encourage other research. CHAPTER 2.0: LITERATURE REVIEW This chapter provides an in depth analysis of concepts used in this study and how different authors assessed microcredit effectiveness on women and poverty, how government and Ngos help to promote women. There are also various studies conducted across the world showing its impact on socio-economic development in many countries in contrast with Mauritius. 2.1 Concept of Poverty Poverty is defined in different terms and it is difficult to have an exact definition of it. The UN (United Nations) defines poverty as a denial of choices and opportunities, a violation of human dignity (Langmore 2000: 37). It means lack willingness and opportunity to participate effectively in society. UN also relate poverty to lack of income to enable survival, social discriminations that the poor face, and by denial of opportunities, it means that they are denied to participate in decisions in society (UN, 1995: Para. 19). In the Beijing declaration it was mentioned how poverty is characterized: lack of participation in social and cultural life, this occurs in many developing countries forming pockets of poverty: regions where poor lives. A poor is not poor because of lack of participation in civil society but also due to economic problems such as recession which prevent people below the poverty line from having a decent life. Sen. (1981), who is a famous researcher on the subject of poverty, explains poverty as the lack of basic needs essential for survival and fails to participate in social and economic activities. Poverty can be categorized into two that is absolute poverty and relative poverty. Absolute poverty refers to a situation where an individual is unable to satisfy his basic needs that are food, shelter and clothing and health. Peter Townsend (1979) defines relative poverty as a situation where an individual standard of living is below the level that they are unable to enjoy normal way of life (Reporting poverty in the UK p 15). It is more about standard of living where there is an individual possess a big villa, new brand car, high income whereas another one is at medium level and can at least satisfy his basic needs and stay healthy. 2.2 Women and poverty More than 1.3 billion of people live in poverty in the world and most of them are located in developing countries like Asia and Africa (UNDP 1996). Women are the one who bear all the burden, they have to manage their household which means work and cater for their family at the same time which is not an easy task. A woman is described as a human being of female sex who can be distinguished through her gender roles and responsibilities in society (Wikimedia 2005). 70 % of women are poor and they mostly come from female-headed households (UNIFEM 2010). Poverty among women keep on increasing, that is why it was conceptualized as Feminization of poverty; an increase in female-headed household (Buduwski 2002). There are various reasons which explain why women, one because there are gender based values like gender roles (housewife/nest builder) which prevent women to emancipate, the increase of divorce increases female-headed families (GAP 2008). There are gender-based inequalities which re strict women to have access to resources and opportunities; which failed to empower them. There were more than 22 millions of unemployed women in the world in 2008 and in developing countries like African countries and south Asia women engaged in insecure jobs (UN 2009). Empirical studies conducted in Poland showed that there are more than 90% of women who are engaged in household work and also their paid, which is a real burden for them (Mandal 2008:163).In Mauritius, Women are more likely to face poverty than men; a report of the CSO showed that 8.9% of women compared to 8.1% of men live in relative poverty in 2009. There is a gap in income between male and female employee only Rs 7,100 for female and Rs 12, 330 for male (ESI 2010:11). 2.3 women and Poverty alleviation Poverty alleviation is based on different strategies to reduce poverty at individual, group and community level. These strategies include education facilities to promote socio-economic development and break down barriers leading to disparities in our society (Barder 2009). Greenberg (2005) defines poverty alleviation as set of strategies to reduce the impacts of poverty on vulnerable groups. In 2000, the millennium development goals were set up to reduce poverty (UN 2000). It was followed by a guideline for poverty alleviation to better help organizations over the world to achieve this objective (DAC 2001). To alleviate poverty barriers which restrict access and participation in society have to be removed (UNDP 2011). These barriers include; problem of unemployment, promoting human capital through educational facilities, trainings for development of skills, health facilities, support to family in difficulty through social benefits, promoting access to services through financial support and building up of self help groups to create solidarity and policies to reduce discrimination and inequalities towards the poor (Headey 2006). 2.4 Poverty alleviation among women through empowerment During the Women conference of the United Nations, it has been declared that to have stability in terms of social, economic, politic, culture and environment, achieving gender equality and empowerment is the essential keys (UN 2009). Empowerment refers to creating opportunities so that individual can develop their capacities in terms of skills and knowledge to face social prejudices in society (Waterhouse 2003). It is the 3rd goal of the Millennium Development Goals which aim to reduce poverty till 2015. Empowerment takes place through decision making, building up of self-esteem in women, improving their status in society and at home (Cheston and Khun 2002). Kabeer (2003) focus on empowerment as being able to make own choices and taking decision to achieve goals. A report from Unifem declares that to achieve women empowerment, access to all basic resources is important (Unifem 2008). Women do not only face money problems but also social ones through exclusion education, politics, and the world of work. Empowerment of women is very important to promote their participation in economic activities of society (Eyben 2008). Women are the ones who are most engaged in work and produce more but yet they only 10% of the income (Clinton 2009). Women tend to invest more even at home, a study done in Brazil showed that all household where women were in control improve the chances of survival of their children by 20% (OECD 2010). Why is empowerment important? It is because women are the one who are less educated, denied access to resources, support (financial), education and are mostly vulnerable in society, they are discriminated and exploited both at work and at home (Mayoux 2009). To achieve empowerment there are intervention from both government and Ngos working together to reduce poverty and promote women. In Mauritius, the NEF has been set up to promote empowerment of women through 2.5 Women and microcredit Micro-credit is too wide which makes it difficult to define (Oikocredit 2011). It is generally define as small loans granted to people from poor background to help them improve their income (income generating activities) and way of life (Grameen bank 2011). In the 1800s, Lysander Spooner found out that providing credit facilities to small famers was very successful that where came the new term micro-credit today, poor population have accessed to loans and payment facilities. In 1976, Muhammad Yanus (winner of the Nobel Prize in 2006) created micro-credit facilities in the Grameen Bank in Bangladesh. At first it was only meant to assess the facilities which can be provided to the poor but later proved to be a key tool to reduce poverty. This was followed by the United Nations declaring the year 2005 as the international year of Micro-credit with five main goals among which were to promote contribution of micro-credit facilities and enable accessibility to these facilities (UN 2005). Micro-credit has been proved to promote social development and a tool to struggle against poverty in both developed and developing countries (Da Silva et al. 2007). MFI reports showed that 70 % of women are beneficiaries of micro-credit loans, this give an overview of women vulnerability and how they consider micro-credit loans as a way to get out of poverty. One main question is raised: Why women? Evidence have showed that women are the ones who are less paid and work in secondary sectors where they are at risk and do not have benefits compared to men in society (ILO 2008). Women face too many inequalities such as unemployment and discriminations based on gender, it has to be noted that Mauritius gender statistics showed that we are ranked 63rd  out of 146 countries on the Gender Inequality Index of the UN (CSO 2011). That is why micro-credit scheme has been introduced to promote access to resources such as land and infrastructure and also access to credit facilities. Besides Micro-credit programme also include training of women so that become independent and confident in their business (CIDA 1995). Micro-credit help women to improve their income household and build a safety-net which secure them and reduce their vulnerability to fall into traps of poverty., they become more mature to deal with issues of their business and make their o wn decision and choices (Mends 2000). Through entrepreneurship, Women have the opportunity to overcome cultural norms which trap them into their housewife role. (Swain and Wallentin 2007). 2.6 Empowerment of women through microcredit Many authors find a link between credit and empowerment. Cornwall and Edward (2010) consider empowerment as crucial to overcome economic and social dilemmas in society. Micro-credit is a system which gives access to finance through loans and savings for entrepreneurships. Studies have shown that micro-credit has been useful to the poor household due to low cost (Miller, Morhnee, Stephens and Tazi 2006). It is a fact that micro-credit programme improved women situation (economic, social, political, cultural) and also in terms of education (trainings) allowing them to develop their skills (Johnson Rogaky 1997).Empowerment has two dimension one in terms of household, women tend be at home doing housework and taking care of their family. With micro-credit programme they work and earn their own money which improves their status and their role at home compared to their previous role. They feel in a better position to apply their own decision (Osmani 2007). There were extensive debates about women and poverty and the impact of micro credit as a poverty alleviation tool. Many literatures have referred to the micro-credit scheme as the best alternative to reduce poverty and to empower women (Bernasek, 2003, Bhatt 2001, Khand Ker el al 1998, Leach and Sitaram, 2002). An assessment on the role of micro-credit schemes conducted through a survey in the South Asia together with Ngos showed that these schemes have improved economic status of women in society through education and training to acquire professional skills in entrepreneurship so that they become self-efficient and this has improve their social status in their household and improved awareness (Hashemi, Schuler and Riley 1996). Micro-credit programmes include Income-generating strategies, increasing awareness and empowering women. This help to socio-economic development of the country through education, participation in decision making, improving quality of health, sanitation and nutrition but most important of all to alleviate poverty through food security, income, improving literacy rates among women, thus leading to social inclusion of women in social, economic and political activities (Bernasek and al. 2003). Halkias, Nwajiuba, Harkiolakis, Caracatsanis (2011) study targeting the Challenges facing women entrepreneurs in Nigeria with a sample of 62 females entrepreneurs a self-administered survey showed that women showed more devotion and effort for their entrepreneurship compared to male entrepreneurs. Another result was that female entrepreneurs can professionally control their entrepreneurship and maintain their household effectively. Micro-credit had also an impact on savings made each month to improve standard of living of their families (Siringi 2011). Kabeer (1998) found out that micro-credit is an opportunity for women to bring their own contribution in terms of money. Policies should target more social and educational spheres to encourage women in the combat to alleviate poverty. Besides (Rogers and Youssef, 1988; Consultative Group to Assist the Poor CGAP, 2004: 6) findings showed that a rise in women income has positive influence on education, and health of children in the hous ehold. A study conducted in Nepal showed that more than 68% which represent more than 89 000 women over 130 000 who were involve in empowerment programme and experienced a change in their role at home and towards their own community, they have become someone who is respected for efforts and sacrifice don to reach this target of women with confidence and esteem (Ashe and Parrot 2001). Micro-credit has open new avenues for women in terms of education and development of skills. Having access to credit is more secure for women and they are able to take care of their family. Reports have shown that women are the one who spend more for the welfare of their family; in-depth interviews conducted in Rwanda with women benefiting from micro-credit scheme have shown that more than 54% of them are now able to manage on their own in their business without men (URWEGO 1994). It also helps to build up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Self-confidence is part of the aims of empowerment of women. It is the based to change women perception on various patriarchal aspects that exist in society and this also enable them to develop skills for the success of micro-credit. Micro-credit is a programme which train women to become professional business women and to be able to control their own business. Microcredit programme have empowered women leading to a change women role, status and relationship at home and in society. In-depth interviews conducted in Rwanda showed that there was an increase of 69 % in self-confidence and self-esteem of women (Ashe Parrot 1994). Studies conducted by Gobezie (2007) showed that more than 54% of women (micro-entrepreneurs) feel more at ease to deal with decisions both at home and their enterprise with the increase in self-esteem and self-confidence. 2.7 Government contribution The government plays an important role in promoting welfare through programmes and policies to better address the problem of poverty and promote equity (Cawthorne 2008). Funds from taxation help for development of the country and the government establishes a framework to know how to use funds efficiently (Serpa 2008). There is a belief that government intervention in micro-credit to give access to credit facilities only. But reality is that it acts as facilitator which provides access to service to the poor without ceilings. Another question usually asked is how micro-credit helps the poor? It increases income of poor household and improve patterns of consumption. When the needy people have access to credit, it helps them to maintain basic standard of living and have cash for emergencies. The government has an aim to promote welfare of citizens mostly needy ones; through micro-credit policies to better target and assist them but also programmes, which create opportunities to poor peo ple to develop skills and gain experience in entrepreneurship and learn how to manage their business. Several reports have shown positive impacts of micro-credit on women but there is big dilemma, political influences which exist and result to abuses, giving privileges to others and drainage of funds to be allocated to micro-entrepreneurs (CGAP 2002). Such influences affect good running and success of these programmes. Similarly to others countries like Bangladesh where the government work together with banks like BRAAC, in Mauritius there is the DBM which provide micro credit loans to people which also aim at socio-economic development and empowerment of women but through financial facilities. Micro-entrepreneurs (women) benefit from loan facility of Rs 150 000 with a period of five years for repayment, only women willing to create a small enterprise. These women are registered at the NWEC where they follow trainings to become independent wage earners (Nwec 2010). 2.9 Constrains of Micro-credit Micro credit was supposed to play a vital role in reduction of poverty but it also has its dark side. This strategy is seen as being too simple to reduce the problem of poverty (Endeley and Thompson 2005). Explanations provided to justify the failure of Micro-credit programme is that it failed to target real needy groups, it can observed that non-poor are taking most advantages of this programme and poor are becoming poorer, criteria of selection are not appropriate and this causes abuses (Copestake, Morduch, Dugger 2004). For Duvenduck (2011), until now there have not been valid evidence which prove that microcredit positively affect women. Abuses are not only from rich people but also from male in households where women benefit from micro-credit schemes. They are aware of their wives eligibility to access micro-credit loans and use them for their own business having nothing to do with women entrepreneurship (Goetz and Gupta 1995). This raises the question of gender equality which e xists in society and men always getting involved in female activities. Furthermore, the main purpose of micro- finance was supposed to provide credit a facility in terms of loan to the marginalized group to help them to generate income for their own business, the state has failed in its mission. (Swain et al 2008:193). It has rather created a vicious cycle of indebtness among women; they get trapped and become dependent on the state and banks. The problem is that they often failed to have the level of profit expected and have to work double to save for loan repayment (Copestake 2001). A report published by business week (2005:4) showed that interest rates are higher and failure to repay loans means closure of their business and huge debts to clear. It can be seen that intervention and contribution of private and public sectors are thin. There is a lack of continuous assistance to women entrepreneurs which makes the safety net very vulnerable as any mismanagement and low profitability can put the business at risk (Neff 1996). All these shortcomings of micro-credit have raised a question; is micro-credit really a tool to reduce poverty? Findings from different surveys showed that it really reduced poverty in the world but to some extent. Kandler (2005) found out that 31 % of women participating in micro-credit programs have been out of their abject poverty in Bangladesh. Another fact of micro-credit success is the increase and improvement of consumption patterns of poor people together with the increase in income this has lead to economic development. Kah (2005) reject the positive results of micro-credit in the developing countries. After a study in different countries with different methods like interviews, surveys and ethnogra phic surveys, Kay found out that it is a too optimistic assumption to classify micro-credit as a tool to alleviate poverty. Micro-credit programmes also have short-comings which tend to be ignored. Antaitwe (2006) claimed that there programmes have failed to meet their aims and objectives. The reason provided was that the fact that people who deserve this service and assistance were excluded from these programmes (Hulme 2003). Another short-coming of micro-credit is whether these programmes are accessible to extremely poor people. Reports from the United Nations (UN) showed that these programmes are inaccessible to extremely poor because of high interest rates and lack of infrastructures and structural patterns to better assist needy people so that they develop their skills and become efficient in society. Peredo and Chrisman (2006) focus on the fact that network should be created to enable better sharing and also facilities in terms of resources and management of enterprises including cost of resources, methods of distribution after production and how to value their products. Pollin (2007) consider microcredit as undervaluing entrepreneurship because it has rather encourage short-term income activities. Entrepreneurship is more based on investment of profit (Harper 2007), however micro-enterprises profit are used for personal matters like luxuries, education, health and other emergencies rather than for development of the country. The main problem with micro-credit shemes is that they deal with economic problems than social ones. It is clear that poverty is the socio-economic problem for most of the world. The male dominance which exists in the most societies acts like a barrier for women success. Men have control over everything in society, even incomes earned by their wife in their enterprise are used for other purposes and women barely have access to it (Omorodion 2007). All these deep-rooted perception, values and customs prevent women to protest because they fear to be harassed, beated up, humiliated by their husband. To some extent micro-credit create tensions in households in most developing countries. For example Mauritius is a country where men power prevails both at work and home. Men refuse to accept women emancipation and recognize their capacities which are very essential for the success of micro-credit programmes (World Bank 2006). This might explain the high rate of domestic violence which was 3 9% in Mauritius in 2011 (ESI 2011). It seems that micro-credit programmes have been introduced only to increase economic activity and supply of labor through job creations (Pitt and Khandler 1998). Micro-credit programmes were supposed to increase income of poor households but it failed because most of the money saved goes in loan repayment and in case of emergencies access to money become a big issue (Brett 2006). The fact that women have low status and are seen as weak ,ignorant and low skilled in society they tend to take loans to move further on the social ladder of society (Lucas 2001). They are trapped to being dependent on their husband and even more when they fail to repay their loan. This ideological image of women responsibility being at home to bring balance is a barrier to success, and though the effort to achieve gender equality in society it has failed. All government strategies for integration of women in society have failed and have provoked misconceptions about women failure in micro-credit programmes and confirming stereotype on women weakness and incapacity (Nesbitt 2006). Too little concerns are attached to empowerment of women (Bellman 2010), it is not only based on increasing their income and developing skills but it is based on changing deep perceptions. It is very difficult to change perceptions people make on women (Swain and Wallentin 2007:25). 2.8 Summary of literature review Through the previous paragraphs, in-depth explanations about the impacts of micro-credit have been given by different authors. It seems that micro-credit programmes have been very efficient in terms of income-generating, development of professional skill to manage own business, emancipation of women in the World. Women have been empowered by these programmes through increase of confidence and assertiveness and independency. The importance of empowerment to alleviate poverty is pointed by many authors; micro-credit increases their awareness and make women more efficient in society. It has brought changes in family income and standard of living and a change in roles that women become entrepreneurs this imply devoting time to both their business and their family which is very hard and often end into conflicts. The government and Ngos also play an important role to promote development and emancipation of women together with policies to protect and respect their rights and programmes to m ake them successful women in the future. Despite all positive impacts of micro-credit on women, there are also short-comings. Micro-credit encourage women to take loan to build their own business and are also trained for it but there is not enough assistance for mentors to make sure these women are on the right track and to counsel them in case of problem to tackle within their business. The problem is when these businesses are unable to make enough profit to repay their loan, there went to deficit and loses their business, all their efforts, time and sacrifices made to achieves this. This result to women becoming dependent on their husband again and men control them again which means empow

Communication Technologies For Health And Social Care Information Technology Essay

Communication Technologies For Health And Social Care Information Technology Essay In this unit the term assistive technology encompasses all technologies high tech, low tech and no tech which aid people disabled or normal to go about their daily life effectively and independently. In order to properly understand the uses and importance of Assistive Technology, some examples are sited below: A short sighted student puts on glasses so he/she can read, thus, the glasses are an assistive technology. A dyslexia patient cannot read the prescribed course texts and hence needs text-to speech software to scan and hear the words. Therefore both the scanner and the text-to-speech software are assistive technologies. Also it has being noted that managing money is not the only problem that we are being faced with in this present society. There are also problems of facilities, technologies and the need for health care professionals to work efficiently in satisfying clients wants and demands, which tends to be a vital issue. Scenario: You have been recruited to work in a care home for 3 months. The care home has a limited access and availability of todays assistive technologies. The manager introduces you to staff and residents as an experienced and valuable member of staff who has a good background in todays assistive technology that is used within the health and social care sector. Your main role is to develop an understanding of the value and the use of the assistive technologies, its applications and implications on service and service users. In relations to the above scenario write a detailed assignment covering the following points: 1 Investigate the use of and access to appropriate assistive and communication technologies for health and social care by: Describing a range of technologies and devices available for use within health and social care. Firstly, a brief introduction should be made on the meaning of Assistive Technology. These devices can be devices that substitutes or enhances physical or mental ability. According to Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Assistive Technology devices are termed as any item, piece of equipment, or product system that is used to increase, maintain or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities. These devices can be any homemade or commercially sold device which helps individuals perform some daily tasks and hence ranges from low tech to high tech (pencil grips, Braille readers, etc) In the UK, the government tend to encourage equal participation of all individuals especially those with disabilities and thus, extends the use of AT in the health and social care sectors. Prior to this, disabled personnels are considered as priorities in all cases which then lead to the term called Accommodation in the use of AT devices. WHAT THEN IS ACCOMODATION? It might sound rather daunting in using this word here, but it also plays a vital role as it relates to a way of modifying tasks for the disabled so that they can participate equally regardless of the nature of their condition. For instance, the use of calculator for a disabled student that cannot remember mathematic figures is a way of accommodating his/her present conditions. Describing a range of communications technologies available to services and service users. Analysing barriers to the use of assistive technologies in health and social care Poor short term memory in elderly ones Lower motivation and learning level present at elderly age Explaining benefits of technologies to organisations and individuals. Wellford in (Birren, J. 1959) agreed with the importance of AT which makes life easier for the elderly, but was pessimistic as well saying that these devices deteriorates rapidly as the complexity increases. also, Benefits of AT to individuals We are all aware that whenever change is being made, everyone wants to know the benefits of it to us. For instance, in the political field, different parties campaign for election, but before people cast their vote, they will like to know the manifesto and intentions of various candidates and what they have to offer which will be beneficial. Similarly, these disabled ones will like to know the benefits of these devices before they can accept it and listed below are some of the benefits of AT to individuals; Benefits of AT to an individual This can be categorized into different sections as illustrated below; Activities of daily life Inner relations Outer relations   The category applicable to individuals is the inner relations which encompasses of; Helping individuals to have a good self-esteem Building up their confidence by the use of the devices By also ensuring that they are safe from harm and risks By relieving them of some or all of their initial pains By eliminating discomfort in their lives Below are list of devices and products of different assistive technology been used. Ambulation Architectural Access Child Care Communication Computer Hardware Computer Software Ergonomics Farm Management Adaptations Health/Medical Equipment Hearing Technology Home Management Mobility Orthotics Personal Care Prosthethetics Recreation Seating Switches Therapeutic Aids Transportation Vision Technology Vocational/Educational Working Animals Ambulation canes cane accessories crutches crutch accessories walkers walker accessories Architectural Access bath tubs bathroom remodel bathroom sinks cabinets ceiling track lift chair stair lift doors/auto open drinking fountain elevators house plans kitchen remodel kitchen sinks/appliances lighting pool lifts ramps safety/security showers toilets wheelchair lifts Child Care cribs/playpens high chairs mattresses/bedding monitors strollers walkers Communication augmentative communication devices (electronic) book holders communication boards electric page turners head wands light pointers manual page turners mouth sticks personal voice amplification reading machines signal systems telephone access television adaptations typewriters typing aids writing aids Computer Hardware Braille printers computer supplies computer work stations cursor control expanded keyboards interface adaptation keyboards key guards mini keyboards other keyboards printers special computer systems tactile printers visual accessories/modifications voice recognition systems voice synthesizers Computer Software assessment/evaluation/training communication educational large print recreation/games special access switch operated talking tools/word processing/database voice recognition Ergonomics arm/wrist supports back supports CRT access ergo joystick industrial workstations office workstations seat/chair tools Hearing Technology alert/signal systems audio loop systems FM amplification systems Hearing aids infrared amplification systems personal amplification systems TDDs/TTYs telephone adaptations TV amplifiers TV decoders Home Management beds/mattresses food preparation housekeeping lift chairs/lift cushions other furniture protective bed/padding shopping aids special pillows Health/Medical Equipment blood pressure/pulse diabetic equipment dispenser aids other medical equipment pressure monitors scales signal systems stethoscopes thermometers Mobility adult bikes/trikes adult light weight adult travel chairs car seats/bed child light weight hand operated trikes manual stretchers manual wheelchair patient chairs portable ramps power stretchers powered standing wheelchair powered wheelchair recliner sports/racing standing wheelchair strollers three-wheeled mobility devices travel chairs Orthotics braces foot orthotics helmets restraints splints supports Personal Care bathing accessories carrying dishes/utensils drinking feeding accessories feeding devices grab bars/grips/handles grooming hygiene incontinent supplies mechanical transfer lift reaching shower/bath chair smoking stationary commode toileting accessories transfer board wheeled bath chair/commode Seating bolster chairs corner chairs decubitis cushion other cushions other therapeutic seats postural support hardware postural support systems pressure monitors wheelchair cushion Switches mounting hardware other switches wheelchair controls Therapeutic Aids ambulation training balance training crawling/scooting elevated mat tables exercise equipment fine motor gross motor hydrotherapy mats pain relief Para podiums perceptual motor positioning prone standers rolls/inclines sensory integration sexual aids side lying boards stand tables strengthening supine standers treatment tables upright frames Transportation assistive accessories driving controls motorcycles/conversions ramps seat belts vehicle access vehicle conversions vehicles wheelchair lifts wheelchair loaders/carriers wheelchair restraint systems Vision Technology braille clocks/watches labeling large button phone large print books magnification systems magnifiers sensors/safety/security speaker phone taped/audio books calculators other devices talking equipment Vocational/Educational adjustable tables classroom equipment education/instruction literature/books office equipment tools vocational assessment/training work station/desks (Word Count: 1250 Words) 2 Analyze how technology can be applied to support independent living by: 2.1 Analyzing how the use of assistive technologies may support independent living. As we all know, AT can only be beneficial if the solutions have a usability value for the individual end user. Prior to this, clients who also are humans have different needs in life which they will want to be respected and considered when introducing any device to them. These needs are classified as below: Physical (body) -Basics (food warmth, shelter), Protection, Medication Intellectual (Mind) Education, Stimulation Emotional (feelings) Support, love, respect Social (people) friends, mixing with others, seeing friends family, translators, Cultural-Ethnicity, religion, festivals, dress, language, diet, prayer times, community magazine From the above, we can now ensure that all or some of these needs are considered when providing devices for them. Fortunately for us and them as well, different ATs have being developed which supports them in the following ways; Different ways in which AT supports individuals Moving about in the home Knowing what clothes to put on Lifting up and holding a child Getting up in the morning Opening and shutting windows Understanding and being understood Dressing and undressing Managing incontinence Moving about for shopping and banking Making food to eat Managing medication Driving Playing various games Access to educational material and school Access to media Access to computers and regular software Weeding of garden, etc. 2.2 Evaluating the use of assistive technology for one specific health and social care service user. Making recommendations of how assistive technologies might enhance services for individuals with specific health and social care need Conclusions cannot just be made on how AT is important to the disbled without firstly, acknowledging that its efficiency is based on some criterions like; Characteristics of the individuals user Characteristics of the AT in use The service delivery process The integration of provision services into rehabilitation strategy (Word Count: 1000 Words) 3 Evaluate implications of developments in assistive technologies which have potential for application in health and social care by: Describing health and safety considerations in the use of assistive technologies. Analyzing ethical considerations in the use of assistive technologies. Describing the impact of recent and emerging technological developments on health and social care services, organizations and workers. Suggest how assistive technologies might influence the role or workers in health and social care in the future. (Word Count: 1000 Words)

Occupational Stress Essay -- essays research papers fc

Occupational Stress Opening Statement: This paper will examine some causes and some of the effects of stress on individuals in the work environment. Role overload will be discussed as a major agent of stress at both work and home. Role Underload, Role Conflict, Role Ambiguity will be discussed briefly for comparison. Examples of stress in the work place will be used to illustrate the broad ramifications of stress in the occupational setting. Examples of Electromyography (EMG) will be given as a means of biologically diagnosing occupational and personnal stress cases as opposed to occupational soft muscle tissue diseases. Finally, interventions such as stress management programs will also be explored, as well as the benefits such programs can deliver to an organization. What is Stress?: "Stress - The confusion created when one's mind overrides the body's basic desire to choke the hell out of someone who so desperately deserves it" (Author unknown). There are many biologic al, engineering and physiological definitions of stress but, the definition above is the most simplified and applicable in today's fast moving business world. More classical "engineering" definition cited by R. Kahn (1992) use during the 18th and 19th centuries described stress as "A force or pressure exerted upon a material object, or person". Stress as defined by Quick, Horn and Quick (1987) "is a naturally occurring experience essential to our growth, change development both at work and at home. Depending on the way stress is handled it may have a detrimental effect on our health and well-being or it may have a beneficial effect". In order to have stress there must be a stressor, or a physical or physiological stimulus to encourage the onset of stress response. A physical stressor in a manufacturing setting may be noise, heat, dust, mist, fumes, poor lighting etc (Evans, Cohen 1987). Psychological stressors could be items such as conflicting views wi th your manager or, seemingly unattainable deadlines. Problems at home may compound these issues when they are presented in an occupational situation. Stress may be caused by many different situations in the various environments that we are a part of each day. Some social stress factors may be measured by Life Crisis Units (LCU) (Holmes and Rahe, 1967). This scale is used to aid in evaluation of, but n... ...ournal of Organizational Behavior Jan vol 12, 39-53 Golembiewski, Robert & Munzenrider Robert (1991) Burnout and Mental Health: A Pilot Study Organizational Development Journal, Sum Vol 9, 51-57 Heirch, Max (1989) Making Stress Management Relevant to worksite wellness Advances Spr Vol 6, 36-40 Hendrix William H; Steel Robert P & Schultz Sherryl A (1987) Job Stress and Life Stress Journal of Social Behavior & Personality Aug Vol 2, 291-302 Klintzman Susan; House James s; Israel Barbara A & Mero Richard P (1990) Work Stress, Non-work Stress & Health Journal of Behavioral Medicine, Jun Vol 13, 221-243 Murphy L R; Dubois David & Hurrel, Joseph (1986) Accident Reduction Through Stress Management Journal of Business and Psychology Fall Volume 1, 5-18 Newsweek Publication Business Section (1988) Newsweek April 25, 42-45 Penton Publication Workers' Comp Update (1992) Occupational Hazards, Oct, 173-178 Quick, Jonathan D; Hoin Rebecca S & Quick, James (1986) Hea lth Consequences of Stress Journal of Organizational Behavior Management Fal-Win Vol 8, 19-36 Electronic Media National Council on Compensation Insurance, Inc. Available http://www.ncci.com/html/ncfoj2.htm

Writing about Love Essay -- Love Poems Poetry Literature Essays

Writing about Love Love poems have always been very popular because love is one of the deepest emotions that people can feel and poetry is a good way to express such an emotion. When people think of love, they think of a typical romantic love but an exploration of pre-1914 love poetry shows other types of love such as unrequited love and obsessive love. The poems I will explore in depth are ‘To his Coy Mistress’ by Andrew Marvin, ‘The Garden of Love’ by William Blake, and ‘How do I love thee’ by Elizabeth Barrett-Browning. Blake’s poem ‘The Garden of Love’ is his view of being deceived by the perception of marriage. He has shown this by using the Chapel to symbolize marriage. When he gets there he finds ‘Thou shalt not’ written over the door and he thinks this symbolizes restrictions. He uses the language of the Ten Commandments to emphasize this. He also finds a gate around the Chapel, symbolizing yet more restrictions. The tone of the poem is negative and this is unlike the other poems which show a more optimistic view of love. This negative tone is shown by the ‘tombstones’ being where the flowers of the ‘Garden of Love’ should be. This may have been influenced by the fact that Blake was writing in the time of the French Revolution which was a time of great social upheaval and uncertainty. Also this poem is part of Blake’s ‘Songs of Experience’ where he goes back to some earlier ideas and finds hat things that seemed good when he was younger are not so good when you grow older. Another poem with a negative tone is ‘Villegiature’ by Edith Nesbit who was writing after Blake. This poem is not about the restrictions of marriage but about a possible romance that has fallen apart. Blake’s poem seems... ...at if they stay together their love will never die. In Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s ‘How Do I Love Thee?’ there is also use of hyperbole. For example in the last line she says ‘I shall but love thee better after death’ Barrett Browning uses the hyperbole to show romantic love. The love is so strong in this poem it can almost become unrequited love as she almost idolizes this person. Barrett Browning tries to measure her love for this man. The use of repetition of ‘I love thee’ may give a tedious tone to this poem but it really emphasizes her point. As her love in this poem is so large to explain she compares it to situations showing strength or other emotions such as joy, but even sadness is involved from the reference of tears. I think this shows that all her life and after goes into this kind of love not just the good times and it is hard work.

Criticism of Philosophers

There are many great philosophers who have had many great ideas over the centuries. These philosophers have had their ideas passed down to many people through the centuries, decades, and years. Fredric Nietzsche, Rene Decartes, and Socrates are philosophers that many philosophy students study. However, not everybody likes or agrees with these philosophers philosophies. The purpose of this paper is to provide information about the three philosophers’ lives, work, and philosophies. Also, in this paper there will be criticism of each of the philosophers.Let’s begin with a discussion of Socrates. Socrates was a Greek philosopher who taught another Greek philosopher named Plato. Even though Socrates is thought to be a great Greek philosopher, we have none of his writings. Therefore, many Greek scholars are not sure whether what is on the page is what Socrates taught Plato or Plato’s own thoughts. Socrates’ background is interesting, but now let’s talk ab out some of Socrates’ philosophical views. Derek Johnston claims that Socrates thought that there was much good in the world; however he believed that virtue was the ultimate good.Johnston goes on to claim that Socrates firmly believed that no outside source could deprive people of virtue (Johnston, 2006, 11). In short, Socrates was mostly concerned with the branch of philosophy called ethics. Socrates also firmly believed that the quest for knowledge was the most important thing and by obtaining knowledge about things is the only way people become truly virtuous. Johnston also claims that Socrates was also attempting to find the true meaning of ethical words such as â€Å"true†, â€Å"good†, and â€Å"beautiful† using the question and answer method of inquiry.He also held firm that Socrates’ main belief was that knowledge equals virtue which can and is obtained through reason. In fact, Socrates held strongly that any opinion that someone had that wasn’t based on reason should be discarded (Johnston, 2006, 11). Rene Descartes’’ philosophy seemed to be based on doubt and certainty. Decartes began to build his philosophical stance by doubting everything that could be doubted. But, even Decartes believed that there were things that couldn’t be called into question.The things that Decartes believed couldn’t be called into question were his existence and the existence of God. Decartes believed that his existence couldn’t be doubted because he was sitting down thinking about whether or not he existed, among other things. Therefore, he believed that if he doubted things then, he must exist. In other words, Decartes believed he thought therefore he was. He more famously put it as;† I think therefore I am. † The Latin for this saying is Cogito Ergo Sum (Johnston, 2006, 76).This argument is sometimes simply known as Cogito. Decartes also was a rationalist. Rationalists believe that there are things that have to be true and that there are things that have to be false. He also believed in the existence of God. His argument for the existence of God basically says that imperfect beings, which are humans, depend on their existence both beginning and continuing upon a perfect being which is God. In addition, according to Johnston, Decartes believed that minds are separate things from bodies (Johnston, 2006, 77).Both Socrates and Friedrich Nietzsche had a philosophical view that was based on ethics. Nietzsche was big on morality. He wished to locate a materialistic basis for his moral principles. At the beginning of his ethics, he believed that both good and evil were simply ways of illustrating that some actions were good for society and other actions were bad and didn’t benefit society. But, later he thought of good and evil in absolute teams (Johnston, 2006, 142). Nietzsche attacks philosophy from an ethical standpoint; however, he promoted only two sets of ethical values.One ethical value was pride in oneself and ruthlessness and philosophy, music, and poetry. Nietzsche thought there were some good ethical qualities that human beings could achieve however; he believed that all human beings could strive to get the good moral qualities but only a few exceptional human beings could actually get those good moral qualities. According to Johnston, Nietzsche’s noble man will have a cruel will and will sacrifice his fellow men. In addition, his noble man will be both disciplined and cunning in war (Johnston, 2006, 145).Nietzsche’s greatest philosophical view is called the Will to Power. Nietzsche’s Will to Power is the ultimate source of both what is and what will be for human beings. Strong people will be able to get the will to power and weaker people will not be able to get the will to power. According to Johnston, Nietzsche’s will to power allows people’s current moral judgments and values which are the moral judgments and values of society to be washed away forever. Then, and only, then can a new set of pure moral values and judgments emerge (Johnston, 2006, 147).In addition, a hero for Nietzsche is a man who rises above and beyond his fellow humans by the strength and will of his own powers be them physical or mental or both. His hero will never be sorry for his superiority; in fact he should relish and rejoice in it. Compare and Contrast It may seem as if because Socrates, Rene Decartes, and Fredric Nietzsche were born and lived at different times and in different centuries that none of these three philosophers’ philosophical views would have similarities to them. However, there are similarities to these three philosophers’ philosophies.Rest assured that there are differences in these three philosophers’ philosophies, but first let’s focus on the similarities of these three philosophers philosophical viewpoints. Both Socrates and Fredric Nietzsche su bscribe to the school of philosophy called ethics. In fact, according to Johnston, Socrates view of life centered mostly on ethics and ethical concerns (Johnston, 2006, 11). Also, both Socrates and Nietzsche tried to find the real meaning of ethical terms such as good, trust, bad, and beautiful by means of asking questions and getting answers.In fact, Socrates used the question and answer method to inquire into many moral definitions and many moral issues such as justice. Nowhere is this question and answer method of philosophical inquiry more apparent than in Plato’s dialogue called The Republic. In Plato’s dialogue The Republic through Socrates Plato explored both the definition of justice and the concept of justice itself. Plato also talked about what philosophy is and the many types of government that is used to run a state. Plato even talked about what he believed was the best form of government.Both Socrates and Nietzsche believed that there was one thing that wo uld make people virtuous. Socrates believed that possessing knowledge and Nietzsche believed that having the strength of will was the ultimate virtue. In addition, both Socrates and Nietzsche also believed that few people will ever achieve either virtue. These are the only similarities between the three philosophers Descartes, Socrates, and Nietzsche. These three philosophers had more differences between them than similarities. Let’s look at thee differences between them now.

Production Strategy in China

Mattel outsources its production to China through its Vendor Operations Asia (VOA), based at Hong Kong. VOA outsources to suppliers who are based at Hong Kong having their production setups in mainland China. These suppliers have the wherewithal to cut through the complex regulations and bureaucracy in China.Mattel outsources only its non core products and short life cycle products to China, which can respond very fast to product changes and modifications due to its strengths in material processing and expertise in toy manufacturing.In House Production vs. Outsourcing:In house production offers significant control over quality, product safety, because of the direct control over the supply chain by the company. It protects the IP rights of the company by not giving the manufacturing expertise and designs to any supplier. On the other hand, in house production can cost significantly more than outsourcing. Also, the company has to acquire a wide management knowledge base, to excel in su pply chain management and manufacturing practices.Outsourcing significantly reduces production cost because of lower labor costs, lower inputs and material processing costs, and an existing infrastructure in manufacturing. So Mattel has better operational efficiency and reduced capital requirements. On the downside, quality is difficult to monitor, especially where there are secondary and tertiary suppliers who supply to the main vendor. A manufacturing plant needs to operate in an efficient manner. The support that is necessary for this is the supply chain, the costs of running a factory, including labor costs, and regulatory aspects of the country. The supply chain available in the country must be able to supply to this industry. Labor costs must be low and the local Government must be supportive of the venture.Offshoring and Outsourcing:When Mattel closes it American and European plants to set up its own manufacturing facilities in China, it is Offshoring. Offshoring happens when the company wants to manufacture by itself, but at a lower cost.When a Mattel factory in UK contracts out a portion of manufacturing to Poland or Mattel contracts an outside entity to completely manufacture a toy, it is outsourcing. Offshoring is a factory or operations shifting to some other country. Outsourcing is contracting an outside entity to do certain operations.Environmental Factors affecting Offshoring and Outsourcing in China:C hina has lax IP rules. Hence a supplier could end up manufacturing a look alike of Mattel toys and get away with it. China is very sensitive about labor issues and rights. Mattel’s suppliers and the VOA sit in Hong Kong and production happens in mainland China. Hence, it is very difficult to maintain and monitor quality. Rising costs in China are making suppliers evade safety standards.Amazon:Value Creation to Customers:Amazon creates value through its exceptional supply chain practices. These practices enable Amazon to offer a wide variety of products, at the lowest cost, with the best offers, at the fastest delivery time, with free shipping. These are achieved by   excellence in supply chain management, by establishing DC’s to cater to large demand groups and thus be able to serve customers quicker and better, generating higher sales.Amazon’s Strategy Evolution:Amazon started as a pure virtual e-marketing company, which will not stock its products but will o perate with strategic alliances and only shipping and sorting operations are done.To effectively serve its customers and to create value, the company has moved to becoming an e-marketing company which stocks, sorts and ships material with a very complex and sophisticated own supply chain and allied operations. It allows customers to sell their own products and partners with other sites that are looking for a channel. It has moved from an e-marketing company to a global internet channel brand.Amazon’s US and European Strategy:The US is a large market with no differences in terms of culture. So Amazon is dealing with customers who have the same language and lifestyles. In Europe, the company can not replicate its US strategies in totem. There are three different large markets in Europe: UK, Germany & France.Each has a different language, lifestyles and requirements. While in the US, the DC’s can effectively stock the same items and supply them to the target geographies. But in Europe, with three different portals supplying different products, the strategy is different. Also, Europe has different regulations to be complied with in terms of pricing. So Amazon relies on postal agencies, for their efficiency and low costs to provide free shipping and thus show a saving for the customer.Amazon started taking checks and postal orders to increase market penetration. In Europe, there were book wholesalers, so Amazon had to enter into direct partnerships with hundreds of publishers, unlike the US. Vendors do not operate on EDN, so time taken for fulfillment of orders is more and also uncertainty of shipped quantity.