Handmaids Tale - Power and Control - 1210 Words

‘How is Gilead presented as a place of power and control in the opening chapters of The Handmaid’s Tale?’ The Republic of Gilead is the fictional country which Margaret Atwood chose as the setting for her dystopian novel, The Handmaid’s Tale. We can infer from the first chapter that Gilead is within the borders of the USA from the fact that ‘old’ blankets still said US: this hints that some sort of major catastrophe has occurred before the time of the novel to change this. The first few chapters suggest a lot about the setting, and also how the transition of the country from being the United States of America to the Republic of Gilead may not have been a particularly positive one. The novel of The Handmaid’s Tale is based on the†¦show more content†¦The different uniforms worn within Gilead are another example of the state using the power they have to control their citizens. All women in the Republic are defined by the colour of their uniforms. These uniforms remove all individuality from particularly the submissive women, as well as camouflaging all signs of shape and figure. Gilead sees women’s sexuality as dangerous, which is why the uniforms they have prescribed are so concealing and unflattering. When Offred walks by the young Guardians, she moves her hips when she senses them watching her, and then states her hope that ‘they get hard’ as a result of her doing this. This shows how she feels that her ability to inspire sexual attraction, despite her uniform is the only power she herself retains. Fear is obviously used in Gilead as the main form of control, made clear by the fact that there are ‘men with machine guns in the pillboxes on either side of road’ – this indicates how strict the rules within the country are, and how severe the consequences are if you break them. The Guardians’ sexual desire is controlled by the idea of the ‘floodlights going on, the rifle shots’ which illustrates the extent of the power the state has over them – they have not yet earned the right to a women, therefore would be totally sex-starved as masturbation is a sin and porn is forbidden. The only hope for them of this changing is if they were promoted to AngelShow MoreRelatedHandmaids tale1446 Words   |  6 Pagesï » ¿Marlyn Barroso ETS 192 October 3rd, 2013 Hierarchy in The HandMaid s Tale Margaret Atwood s The Handmaid s Tale is a interesting novel that will have you confused but also have you bitting your nails with intrigue. So many questions might go in your head, at the same time; Atwood wrote this novel so her readers can have curiosity, even after reading the last word of the last paragraph of the last page of the book. One of the main topics of this novel is the effect on society when aRead MoreMargaret Atwood s The Handmaid s Tale Essay1724 Words   |  7 PagesThe Handmaid’s Tale women’s bodies are used as political instruments. Because if the harmful pollution in the United States, a new Constitution has been made to address and correct the decline in birth rates. To do this the government has created Handmaids. Handmaids â€Å"are placed in the households of [army] Commanders whose Wives can no longer bear† babies anymore (Cameron 299). The future of the Republic of Gilead depends on the Handmaids ability to have a baby. The Ha ndmaids are kept underRead MoreThe Handmaids Tale By Margaret Atwood And Catching Fire By Suzanne Collins1522 Words   |  7 Pagesenvironmentally degraded one† (www.oxforddictionaries.com).The text, The Handmaids Tale by Margaret Atwood and Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins deal with the main idea of societal restraint. Both authors portray a protagonist who is living in a totalitarian society. The protagonists in both novels have harsh limitations which they must abide to. The authors use setting, oppression, and symbolism as restraint for societal control. Setting is a demonstration of restraint because in both novels the city/districtRead MoreIs Today s Society Becoming A Dystopian World?1313 Words   |  6 Pagesa dystopian world? Both the novels 1984 by George Orwell and The Handmaids Tale by Margaret Atwood provide warnings of how each author sees certain problems in society leading to dystopian states. Civilizations are forced to live by rules and for certain purposes to ensure the governments own goals and aspirations, but arise for different reasons. Atwood is concerned with political groups and aspects of feminism; The Handmaids Tale illustrates how declining birth rates could lead to a state whereRead MoreAbuse of Power in the Handmaids Tale1174 Words   |  5 PagesWithin the totalitarian society created by Margaret Atwood in the Handmaid’s Tale, there are many people and regimes centred around and reliant on the manipulation of power. The laws that are in place in the republic of Gilead are designed and implemented so as to control and restrict the rights and freedom of its inhabitants. In the republic of Gilead, there are many rules and restrictions within all levels of the community, wives, econowives, common men and handmaid’s included, which limit theRead MoreThe Handmaids Tale Essay968 Words   |  4 PagesAtwood’s ‘The Handmaids Tale’, we hear a transcribed account of one womans posting ‘Offred’ in the Republic of Gilead. A society based around Biblical philosophies as a way to validate inhumane state practises. In a society of declining birth rates, fertile women are chosen to become Handmaids, walking incubators, whose role in life is to reproduce for barren wives of commanders. Older women, gay men, and barren Handmaids are sent to the colonies to clean toxic waste. Fear is power. Fear is ever-presentRead MoreMargaret Atwood s The Handmaid Tale Essay1166 Words   |  5 Pagescertain amount of power and control of its citizens in order for a society to function properly. However, too much power and control in a society eliminates the freedom of the residents, forbidding them to live an ordinary life. In the dystopian futuristic novel, The Handmaids Tale, Margaret Atwood demonstrates the theme of power and control through an oppressive society called the Republic of Gilead. The government established power and control through the use of the wall, military control, the salvagingRead MoreEssay about The Handmaids Tale889 Words   |  4 PagesAtwood’s ‘The Handmaids Tale’, we hear a transcribed account of one womans posting ‘Offred’ in the Republic of Gilead. A society based around Biblical philosophies as a way to validate inhumane state practises. In a society of declining birth rates, fertile women are chosen to become Handmaids, walking incubators, whose role in life is to reproduce for barren wives of commanders. Older women, gay men, and barren Handmaids are sent to the colonies to clean toxic waste. Fear is power. Fear is ever-presentRead MoreThe Existence Of A Patriarchal Society1049 Words   |  5 PagesPatriarchal Society Throughout history, men have continued to hold the position of power and authority in society. Generally, men disregarded what women had to say and believed that women were incapable of making decisions on their own. Rather than creating a society, which established equal and fair power, the men wanted to control everyone including women. Some men even abused and manipulated women in order to get the power they desired. Men held more dominant positions in society and therefore had aRead More Margaret Atwoods The Handmaids Tale Essay1246 Words   |  5 PagesMargaret Atwoods The Handmaids Tale In The Handmaids Tale, Margaret Atwood tells a saddening story about a not-to-distant future where toxic chemicals and abuses of the human body have resulted in many men and women alike becoming sterile. The main character, Offred, gives a first person encounter about her subservient life as a handmaid in the Republic of Gilead, a republic formed after a bloody coup against the United States government. She and her fellow handmaids are fertile women that the

Dana Gioria Money Poem - 931 Words

Dana Gioia was once a business executive before become a writer, poet, and critic. He is much recognize, acclaimed, and awarded. President George W. Bush named him Chairman of the National Endowment for Arts in 2003. Money is a poem that is included in Dana Gioia’s book†The God’s of Winter.† This poem talks about something that everyone is very familiar with in their own way, money. No matter who you are, you know what money is and what money can do or cannot do for you. Dana Gioia illustrates in continuous metaphors that money can be earned, saved, shared, wasted, abused, and used, and that spending money is the prime objective of mankind. Dana Gioia starts off with a quote from Wallace Stevens that reads Money is a kind of†¦show more content†¦First off, he uses personification referring to money being able to talk, giving it human qualities. Money is something that travels from person to person and there is no way to keep track of where money is going or where it is coming from. It is a metaphor because money is something that is dirty and you would not be willing to put it in your mouth. However, people put money where their mouth is when they want to prove a point. Money has this certain sense of power. People know that you are very sure about a point you want to be made when you start to involve money. The poetic devices help to accomplish the purpose of relating money to different objects using metaphors to compare it with objects you may be familiar with, personification by giving money human qualities, visual imageries and paradoxes to show you the power that money possesses. Every single person has a certain kind of relationship with money whether it is because the y have plenty of it and like the rewards of having money. Or someone hates money because they do not have a lot of it and feels this hold them back from doing the things they want to do or obtaining items they want. This poem talks about every aspect of money. This poem tells about some good qualities and some bad qualities that money holds. I really enjoyed reading and figuring out the meaning of this poem, money can be used to help your needs and in some occasions hurt

The Nature of International Politics Free Essays

The Nature of International Politics The first principle that Thucydides addresses regarding the nature of international politics calls into question the conclusive goals that each individual entity in the world of international relations deems most important. Thucydides states that a country or state’s ultimate goal is to gain power and ruling over other nations. He illustrates this best in The Melian Dialogue through the actions of the war-loving Athenians. We will write a custom essay sample on The Nature of International Politics or any similar topic only for you Order Now In their effort to maintain their stance of power against their rival Spartans, they travel to the island of Melos with the goal of conquering the Melians; either through force or through the Melian surrender. The people of Melos wish to remain neutral friends of both Sparta and Athens, but the Athenians will not hear of it. In their eyes, staying on friendly terms with a neutral country would be construed as a sign of weakness and fear. The Melians refuse to surrender, resulting in the ultimate destruction of their society while the Athenians gain further rule and power for their empire. However, I believe that this principle need not to always hold true, especially in the terms of war through diplomatic countries such as the United States of America. The United States has always held its principles in the effort to spread democracy and morality in the international realm. In The Fog of War, John F. Kennedy disproves Thucydides first principle. In the midst of the Cuban Missile Crisis, the last thing Kennedy and his Secretary of Defense, Robert McNamara, wanted to do was to attack Cuba or go to war with the Soviet Union to gain power or ruling in any sense. They wanted to deal with the frightening presence of the Soviet Union’s extensive nuclear warheads on Cuban soil in the most diplomatic way possible in order to avoid nuclear war. While this was best for the self-interest of the American people, it was also for the benefit for the citizens of Cuba and the USSR, as nuclear war destroys nations. Thankfully JFK had the help of a man named Tommy Thompson on his team who personally knew the Soviet Premier Nikita Khrushchev. Thompson urged Kennedy to go forward with negotiations with Khrushchev in order to end the Cuban Missile Crisis peacefully. Luckily, it worked. Kennedy and Khrushchev reached an agreement that the Soviet Union would dismantle the weapons as long as the United States would not invade Cuba. Through the peaceful, yet stressful, negotiations, both JFK and Khrushchev went against the international principle that countries only aim to rule and conquer, and instead in the arms of a rational governing body most often the countries own self-interest for safety overrules the desire to prove their power over other countries. Thucydides’ second principle of international politics relates to the idea that between a world of expansive cultures and beliefs, there is no international moral code for war and relations between states. In the Melian Dialogue, Thucydides exemplifies this idea through the war practices that the Athenians practiced in regards to the Melian people. While some may argue that their initial attempt to discuss the impending attack while offering the option of surrender was â€Å"humane†, the brutal force they eventually brought upon the Island of Melos outweighed their weak attempts in the beginning. Once the Melian people surrendered, the Athenians put all men of military age to death and sold the women and children as slaves. The Athenians practiced the â€Å"might makes right† way of thinking about morality: that those who hold the most power also hold the ability to decide what actions are appropriate where they deem fit. In this case, they were the mighty ones. Their forceful actions toward the Melians were justifiable in their eyes, but across cultures such actions could easily be deemed excessive and radical. Therein lies Thucydides’ argument that there is no such moral code that every nation can be held accountable to. In The Fog of War, Robert McNamara is horrified with such a truth, and wonders aloud â€Å"What is morally appropriate in a wartime environment? † He illustrates his question by describing â€Å"Agent Orange†, a chemical that was approved for usage during the Vietnam War while he was acting Secretary of Defense. â€Å"Agent Orange† is a chemical that was often used to take the leaves off of trees, and after the war was discovered to be highly toxic and lethal. The usage of â€Å"Agent Orange† killed numerous citizens and soldiers who were exposed. He continues to ask whether those who issued the approval of â€Å"Agent Orange† criminals? Within the definition of the word ‘criminal’ is the assumption that there is a crime being broken that is made illegal by a system of written laws. But McNamara points out that there are no such kinds of laws in war to determine what is acceptable and what is not and ultimately there is no such thing as an international moral code that can be upheld, especially in the times of war. While there exists no international moral standard, does that mean that no state can be trusted? Thucydides’ third principle of international politics would answer â€Å"yes†. He believes that in the sense of self-interest, one state cannot rely upon alliances and only those alliances that are in line with national honor should be upheld. This principle is evident in the Melian Dialogue when the Melian people state their hope and belief in the Spartan people coming to their aid in the prospect of attack from the Athenians. They believe that if not solely for the Spartan’s will to preserve their neighboring allies (that will surely take note if they don’t come to aid Melos), then for the kinship of the Melian and Spartan race. Ultimately, the people of Melos are proven to have had too much hope in the Spartans, as no one comes to their aid. However, much like in the throes of friendship where not all can be trusted, surely some friends and allies can. The Fog of War displays a twisted sense of camaraderie between the USSR and Cuba, a bond that was forged in the joint disparage toward the United States. Their alliance built and housed nuclear weapons on Cuban soil, weapons that had the ability to destroy most of the continental United States. Once the American Government took hold of the dangerous situation and offered negotiations to the USSR in the hopes of avoiding destructive warfare, Nikita Khrushchev had a decision to make†¦and he had two major options. He could ignore the offer of diplomatic problem solving and strike the United States with the nuclear weapons or he could agree to the negotiations JFK brought to the table. On the one hand, attacking the United States guaranteed a responsive strike from the US that would undoubtedly destroy Cuba and kill thousands (not to mention create real problems between the USSR and the US). And on the other, he could agree to take out the weapons in return for the promise that the US would not attack Cuba. He could be known as the man who saved Cuba from an attack by the United States and could gain national respect for upholding USSR honor and morality. Despite the disturbing urgings from war-mongering Fidel Castro, Khrushchev decided to agree to negotiations. While his actions may have been solely done for self-interest and preservation of the USSR’s teetering relationship with the US, he ultimately had the interest of the people of Cuba in mind even when their own President did not. This act by Khrushchev, despite the reasons behind it, upheld the ideals of alliances: that one nation must be reliable and ready in the ability to protect the people and rights of the ally nation. How to cite The Nature of International Politics, Papers

Audit Opinion and Earnings Management

Question: Discuss about the Audit Opinion and Earnings Management. Answer: Introduction In this report, ethical principle related to the auditing and accounting professional are discussed and applied in the different situations. Accountants Code of Ethics in Australia is discussed to determine the accuracy in the acts of auditor and accountants. Apart from this, the type of auditor opinion is also discussed in this report to develop clear understanding regarding the ethical and legal limitation for the profession of auditor and accounting. In this situation, Accountants Code of Ethics (ACE) has been violated by accepting referral fee or commissions. In practice, accountant acceptance for the referral fee and commission is likely to cause threat of self-interest that violates objectivity and professional competence and due care principle of ethics. Harmon will get commission from the Computer Services Ltd (third party) if he would create sales for this company. In such circumstance, Harman can persuade the clients in wrongful manner for getting the commission fee (Al Momani and Obeidat, 2012). The accountant may likely to practice accountancy in favor of client, which would cause violation of ethical principle. The auditor has been violated the ACE in the given situation by disclosing personal information of the clients to the Allied Insurance. By this practice, David has been violated confidentiality principle of ACE. This principle imposes obligation on the accountants and auditors for avoiding disclosure of clients personal information to the third party without any legal or authentic duty. By disclosing clients information to the other parties without their consent, this auditor has violated the confidentiality ethical principle of accountant professional at the greater extent (APESB, 2010). It could create negative impact on the interest of clients. In the given situation, the accountant and the firm will violate the ethical principle of confidentiality by allowing clients to work on the computer in which it stores and maintains records details of the client. Due to this, any client can access the information of other, which is prohibited in the ACE. This is likely to cause legal obligations for the accountancy firm. The involvement of audit section in the auditing of client will not cause violation of any ethical principle as audit branch is ethically responsible for protecting personal information of the clients and their interest (Kung and Li Huang, 2013). In this way, access of client over the firms computer is likely to violate the ethical principles. Management service work is handled by another public accountant in Williams Pty Ltd, which is an audit client of Stephanie Barry. Barry shares information regarding management services of her firm with the client voluntary on monthly basis. By this act, Barry violated the ethical principle of integrity as due to this, the auditor behaves in dishonest manner in professional. By sharing firms information to the other accountancy firm shows unfair dealings and dishonesty in practice, which is likely to causes violation of ethical principle (Cohen et al., 2013). Thus, Barry will breech the ethics of accountancy profession of ACE. In the given situation, there has been a violation of ACE as Katrina is responsible for playing dual roles in the organizations. She is an audit manger as well as a member of the Board of Directors in a not for profit organization. Due to dual responsibility, objectivity principle of accountancy practice is likely to affect in negative manner. The dual responsibility of Katrina can cause conflict of interest or biasness due to which professional duties and business judgments can be compromised. By playing role of audit manager, she is responsible for depicting actual financial and operational performance of firm, whereas in role of board of directors, the person is accountable to work in interest of the stakeholders. This is likely to cause violation of ethical principle (APESB, 2010). Peter as public accountant provides range of services to the same client on frequently basis. By providing range of services to the client, the objectivity and professional behavior are some ethical principles violated by the accountant. Conflict of interest and biasness are some issues raised in this situation as the accountant would play several roles in a firm at a time. For example: Peter provides management advisory and auditing services to this firm. As a management advisor, public accountant may advice to the firm for avoiding taxes and it will cause biasness in performing the role of auditor (Gaffikin and Lindawati, 2012). This will have negative impact on the objectivity ethical principle of ACE. The Hornsby Auditors has violated professional behavior as the services are marketed in a way, which is quite inconsistent with this principle. In advertisement, the firm has made claims for service quality in exaggerate manner. It is inconsistent with the principle of professional behavior as in this self-interest threat is likely to appear. For attracting clients, it has overstated the service quality and gained experience. Apart from this, it also compared offered services to the other providers of state, which also opposes the ethical principle of professional behavior (). Due to self-interest, this firm has made unproven comparisons with the other. It also clearly shows the violation of professional behavior principle. The auditor fee of David Cheadle is due for a long time and this practice has violated ethical principle of objectivity. In accordance to the ethical principle of ACE, the audit fee should be paid to the auditor before the issue of audit report for the following year. This creates self-interest threat and it should be eliminated or reduced at the accepted level. The auditor has planned to start auditing for the next year without receiving the due payment of the last year, which may affect the quality of auditing due to the self-interest aspect. The ethical principle related to fee-overdue indicates that due payment of auditor for long time is likely to create self-interest threat and to affect the objectivity and integrity in the accounting profession (Avram and ?ogoe, 2012). Thus, the situation clearly indicates breech of ethical principle in the auditing practice. The type of opinion is qualified or except for as in this, the auditor stated that some part of the financial statement lacks adequate evidences. The auditor failed to find confirmation from the clients major customers and thus part related to them in financial statement cannot be true. The remaining part of the financial reports shows true and fair view. The auditor is responsible to follow confidential ethical principle and thus, the inclusion of any client as samples without their consent is likely to create ethical issues for the auditor. In the given situation, the auditor was able to eliminate the legal responsibilities by balancing accounts through the use of auditing procedures (CPA Australia, 2014). But, the use of auditing procedure for self-interest is likely to create ethical issues. The application of auditing procedure to conceal the wrongful act is unethical in the auditing profession. In this situation, the type of opinion is adverse as the client restrict auditor to evaluate the 20% of total assets in the firm balance sheet. Plant, properly and machinery is not evaluated by the auditors due to interference of the client in the auditing procedure. It causes negative opinions for the practices of management, which are used to develop financial reporting framework. In developing financial statement, the firm affects ability of auditor to make a clear opinion in the audit report (Blandn and Bosch, 2013). In this situation, auditor gives adverse opinions due to the lack of management support in developing audit report. Management has taken actions to exclude necessary disclosure from the financial report, which is likely to have material effect on the financial statement. This is adverse type of opinion as it indicates inappropriate tactics of management in terms of development and preparation of financial report (CPA Australia, 2014). The development of financial statement is not developed in accordance to the accounting standards, which indicates managements responsibility to disclose all relevant information of operations that has material effect on the financial statement. The misleading financial reporting framework of this firm shows lack of fairness and thus adverse opinion of auditor indicates that financial statement does not present true and fair view of firm financial and operational state (Tsipouridou and Spathis, 2014). The type of opinion in this situation is disclaimer as in this auditor indicates that they do not have certain view for the retailers sales. Due to the presence of adequate records regarding the cash base sales, it is quite difficult for the auditor to obtain enough evidences and to determine the accuracy of data. The absence of audit test also indicates that auditor has different view in terms of calculating the cash sales of retailer. The auditor founds accuracy problem only in the sales part of this firm and thus, it indicates ability of auditor to make an opinion regarding the fairness and adequacy of a firms financial and operational performance (CPA Australia, 2014). In this situation, adequate evidences are not obtained by the auditor and thus it indicates absence of accurate opinion regarding the fairness of financial statement. In this case, the auditor is asked to audit the financial statement of a new client. The auditor determines that there is no material misstatements found in the financial statement of the current financial year. But, there is absence of information regarding the opening balances of accounts at the start of the financial year. This indicates that expect to the opening balances of accounts, the rest of financial statement presents fair picture of financial and operational performance of the firm. This makes the qualified types of opinion for the financial statement of this firm. In qualified opinion, auditor gives assurance regarding the financial information apart from some part (Hammersley et al., 2012). The same happened in this case as the auditor did not find any misstatement in financial reports but showed concern for the opening balances of accounts. The type of opinion in this situation is adverse as in this auditor concludes that firm did not follow the Australian Accounting Standards from the starting of operations. It has been operating from the last five years. It is an adverse opinions as in this auditor believes that management has used inappropriate accounting standards for preparing and developing financial statement. This shows inaccuracy of the financial reporting framework. Due to this, the auditor believes that financial statement are not adequate in terms of presenting fair and true picture of the financial position of the firm as they are not developed and prepared as per the accounting standard of Australia (Pourheydari et al., 2012). It shows that the auditor has adverse opinion for the financial statement of this firm. Adverse type of opinions is developed in this situation as in this the auditor has different opinion for the calculation of inventory. Firm uses LIFO method of accounting for inventory and it is disallowed in accordance to the accounting standards of Australia. The calculation of inventory is made without the consideration of accounting standards, which may material effect on the financial reports (CPA Australia, 2014). Thus, the adverse opinion is provided by the auditor in this case regarding the financial statement of a firm. The opinion of auditor in this case is disclaimer as in this auditor indicates that there are no material misstatements. But, the clients continuation as going concern is in extreme doubt and thus it causes considerable concern. The effect of this issue on the financial and operational performance of firm is difficult to determine, which limits ability of auditor to make highly clear opinion (Xu et al., 2013). Conclusion It can be concluded on the basis of above answers that objectivity, integrity, professional competence and due care, professional behavior and confidentiality are some of the major ethical principles in accordance to the Australian Accountants Code of Ethics. Apart from this, qualified, disclaimer and adverse are three type of auditors opinion are common in the real world situations. References Gaffikin, M.J.R. and Lindawati, A.S.L. (2012) The moral reasoning of public accountants in the development of a code of ethics: the case of Indonesia. Australasian Accounting Business Finance Journal, 6(1), p.3. Al Momani, M.A. and Obeidat, M.I. (2013) The effect of auditors' ethics on their detection of creative accounting practices: A field study. International Journal of Business and Management, 8(13), p.118. Avram, M. and ?ogoe, G.D. (2012) Professional accountants ethics in the context of corporate governance. Annals of University of Craiova-Economic Sciences Series, 2(40), pp.245-250. Blandn, J.G. and Bosch, J.M.A. (2013) Audit firm tenure and qualified opinions: New evidence from Spain. Revista de Contabilidad, 16(2), pp.118-125. Tsipouridou, M. and Spathis, C. (2014) March. Audit opinion and earnings management: Evidence from Greece. In Accounting Forum (Vol. 38, No. 1, pp. 38-54). Elsevier. Hammersley, J.S., Myers, L.A. and Zhou, J. (2012) The failure to remediate previously disclosed material weaknesses in internal controls. Auditing: A Journal of Practice Theory, 31(2), pp.73-111. Pourheydari, O., Nezamabadi-pour, H. and Aazami, Z. (2012) Identifying qualified audit opinions by artificial neural networks. African Journal of Business Management, 6(44), p.11077. Xu, Y., Carson, E., Fargher, N. and Jiang, L., 2013. Responses by Australian auditors to the global financial crisis. Accounting Finance, 53(1), pp.301-338. Accounting Professional Ethical Standards Board Limited (APESB) (2010) APES 110 Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants. [Online]. Available at: https://www.apesb.org.au/uploads/standards/apesb_standards/standard1.pdf (Accessed: 21 January 2017). CPA Australia (2014) A GUIDE TO UNDERSTANDING AUDITING AND ASSURANCE: LISTED COMPANIES. [Online]. Available at: https://www.cpaaustralia.com.au/~/media/Corporate/AllFiles/Document/professional-resources/auditing-assurance/guide-understanding-audit-assurance.pdf (Accessed: 21 January 2017). Kung, F.H. and Li Huang, C. (2013) Auditors' moral philosophies and ethical beliefs. Management Decision, 51(3), pp.479-500. Cohen, J.R., Krishnamoorthy, G., Peytcheva, M. and Wright, A.M. (2013) How does the strength of the financial regulatory regime influence auditors' judgments to constrain aggressive reporting in a principles-based versus rules-based accounting environment?. Accounting Horizons, 27(3), pp.579-601.

A Close Analysis of the Opening to Scream Essay Example

A Close Analysis of the Opening to Scream Essay Example A Close Analysis of the Opening to Scream Essay A Close Analysis of the Opening to Scream Essay The opening to Scream sets the film up for a typical scary movie with the use of dark lighting, a night-time setting and the main character all on their own. Many other aspects of the clip such as camera shots and background music create a mysterious atmosphere, and an unnerving sensation that something is going to go wrong. The setting of the film is in a family home. This creates a comfortable setting to give the shock a bigger impact as well as creating an irony around the idea of being in the comfort of your own home and later being killed in it. The main rooms used in the opening are the typical family rooms of a house, the kitchen and living room, which tie in with the irony again. The scenes are set in the nighttime to give an impression of mystery and a sinister atmosphere. The lighting in the rooms is also quite dark and there is a lot of use of shadow and low lights to create this mood. There is a long shot of the setting outside of the house to show that the characters are in the middle of nowhere, and that they cannot run or be found which enhances the scary factor of the film. In certain clips, particularly where there is focus on the setting, there are sounds of crickets that give a evening silence to the secluded area. Throughout the clip, there are two main characters, one being Drew Barrymore, the victim and an unknown person who is the scary villain. Barrymore is portrayed as a young innocent teen left home alone while her parents are out for the evening. Her blonde hair brings up connotations of innocence and naivety and red lips suggest a flirty character in the young girl. She is dressed also in quite innocent clothing, as she is not accentuating any of her sexual assets, which again backs up the idea that she is in her teens. Furthermore, her costume is fairly plain, keeping the focus on her and not her outfit. For the beginning of the opening, while the scene and character is being set, the camera follows her around while she begins to make popcorn and walks around the house on the phone. By doing this, the director sets up a typical and natural image of someone doing day-to-day things in their house, which creates a greater impact when the violence and terror begins. The popcorn suggests t hat she may be settling down to watch a film and perhaps this could be a scary one as she tells the man on the phone later that she enjoys watching them. The voice of the villainous character is very husky, which suggests to the viewer that he is scary and mysterious, giving them an unsettling feeling. We do not get any images for this man until later on in the clip, leaving the viewer to base their interpretations of him solely on his voice. Once the voice on the phone begins shouting at Barrymore in a violent manner, some non-diagetic, dramatic music starts to play to entice the viewer and imply that things in the film are about to get bad. The camera gets a close-up of the girls face to focus on her scared facial expressions, helping the viewer to understand her emotions and begin to feel them too. While she is running around the house the music becomes louder and more dramatic making it even more suspense, while the camera shots change quickly to make the viewer panicked and unsure of what is going on. Running into the kitchen, we see that her popcorn is on fire, which then automatically brings up connotations of danger. This then intensifies as the character picks up a knife that was shown earlier in the clip, highlighted by the reflection of the light. The first shot of the villain is as he smashes through the window dangerously to scare and shock the viewer. We see him again through the girls eyes as she looks at him running across the living room. This is the first full-length image we see of him, clothed completely in black with a white mask on. Although we have now seen this man, we do not know anything about him because of his secretive costume, which is all very mysterious. All through the clip there are medium close ups of the girl looking very scared and feeling trapped because her body language is very introvert and recluse while shes crying. While the girl is being brutally killed, the camera shifts quickly again to give the same effect as before of panic and desperation for her. All the while this is happening, the male character does not speak which is quite ironic considering he kept on wanting to talk to her when they were on the phone to each other. This implies that the murder of this girl is very gruesome and yet he is immune to it all. The clip ends with the teenagers parents coming home to find their house completely chaotic and her daughter hung from a tree that was shown earlier. There is a final scream from the mother as the title Scream comes up on the shot to end the opening and introduce the rest of the film. To conclude, the film shows a dark secluded setting with a girl home alone. This is a good basis for a horror film and the build up of shock makes the viewer desperate to continue with the film, while also being so frightened that part of them wants to turn it off.

How to Become a Rehabilitation Counselor

How to Become a Rehabilitation Counselor When you hear the word â€Å"rehab,† it might conjure up images of celebrities disappearing for a few weeks while publicists release statements about â€Å"exhaustion.† But while rehabilitation centers certainly do the very important work of helping patients with additions and related health issues, they also exist for helping patients get back on their feet after surgeries, injuries, or other illnesses. Rehabilitation counselors are crucial in helping these patients, as well as people with disabilities, recover and overcome barriers. The Day-to-DayRehabilitation counselors are allied health professionals work with clients and families to help those clients to achieve personal, social, psychological, and professional goals. One of their main roles is helping people get back on track (or on track in the first place) after being diagnosed with a disability or illness, or as they recover from surgery or injuries. Counselors can work with clients of all ages and backgrounds , but may specialize in areas like patients with disabilities, patients coming back from military service or stress-related trauma, patients being treated for addictions, or patients dealing with work-related injuries. By creating treatment plans and coordinating services and accommodations, counselors help their clients make progress in their lives.Rehabilitation counselors typically work a standard 40-hour week, though these hours might include evenings or weekends to accommodate client needs. Rehab counselors can work in a variety of places, like community centers, youth centers, senior centers, hospitals, or private clinics.For more on what it’s like to be a rehabilitation counselor, check out these videos:Understanding Rehabilitation CounselingWhat is Rehabilitation Counseling?So You Want to Be a Rehabilitation CounselorThe RequirementsRehabilitation counselors typically have a master’s degree from an accredited program, though their undergraduate degrees can be i n a variety of fields like social work, psychology, or counseling. Clinical training is usually included in the master’s program, in addition to an internship and a practicum. Certification is usually optional, but you should check your state’s requirements (or potential future employers’ requirements) ahead of time.The PayPer the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, rehabilitation counselors earn a median salary of $34,380 per year, or $16.53 per hour.The OutlookDemand for rehabilitation counselors is expected to rise by at least 9% by 2024, reflecting a need for all kinds of outpatient follow-up care for people affected by injuries, trauma, stress, or illnesses.

American Beauty Movie Review Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

American Beauty - Movie Review Example In the 1920s Jung wrote a paper on 'The spiritual problem of modern man' addressing what he saw as an inevitable psychological/cultural response to an over-emphasis on the spirit or psyche as opposed to the body during that time. Feeling that the young profession of the cinema was very much a part of this response - a symptom of the imbalance, in a way - he wrote: The cinema, like the detective story, enables us to experience without danger to ourselves all the excitements, passions, and fantasies which have to be repressed in a humanistic age. It is not difficult to see how these symptoms link up with our psychological situation. The fascination of our psyche brings about a new self-appraisal, a reassessment of our fundamental human nature. We can hardly be surprised if this leads to a rediscovery of the body after its long subjection to the spirit - we are even tempted to say that the flesh is getting its own back. (Jung 1928, para. 195) Jung thought that all psychological life expressed itself in binary oppositions, and that a process of something turning into its opposite was common - and indeed was to be expected when it had gone too far one way, as his quote indicates. Jung also held that psychological health lay in allowing the psyche to bring about its own balance via the transcendent function - the process of 'holding and transcendin g the opposites' - something Blake attempted with his Songs of Innocence and of Experience. I want to put forward the following idea: two people can be in such a relationship with each other that they seem to stop themselves from actually being (or continuing to be) a couple, even though they appear, from the outside at least, to be one. Or rather, they act to stop the psychological development that being in an adult couple relationship will have triggered as part of the individuation process. Guggenb hl-Craig (1977) in his book Marriage - Dead or Alive puts forward a rather pessimistic view of the impact of marriage on the capacity of a man or a woman to individuate, which at first sight seems to endorse this view of the couple relationship. However, Guggenb hl-Craig's version seems to me to attend too little to the details of the unconscious interactions between the couple, preferring to focus instead on a broader-brush view of the needs of 'salvation' for one or other of the marriage partners. His work could be compared, unfavourably from my perspective, with that of Lyo ns and Mattinson (1993) who make use of the concept of the opposites and Jung's idea of marriage as a psychological relationship (Jung 1925) to look in detail at the interactions of a particular couple, Mr & Mrs Turner, who illustrate the individuation process in the couple in detail. At the Tavistock Marital Studies Institute, where Lyons and Mattinson worked, we are accustomed to think of couples as a kind of system. When we see a turning away from change and development by the couple, we think not so much of individuals each with powerful narcissistic defences operating separately but simultaneously, but more of an unconscious 'agreement' between the couple to stifle growth, for whatever reason. We focus on a shared interaction between them at an unconscious level: each one acts upon and relies upon the other to maintain a 'shared couple defence' against a

The Cost of War Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

The Cost of War - Essay Example As an economic student, the cost of war does not end in the battlefield but it also affects those who are not involved with the war. The question here is the cost of war and who bear the cost. Is it America, the jihadists or the world? This perspective will enable you to explore the issue from an economist point of view. Global economy is indicated by various parameters. Such parameters are the only tool that we can use to determine the cost of war. Jim: I think Sam is heading in the right direction since the issue of cost of war should be linked with the question of who bears the cost. It is unfortunate that since the end of World War II, most wars have been between America and the so called the Arab world. The Asian continent or the Arab world plays a big role in the world’s economy. Nearly 50% of the global oil comes from the Arabian countries particularly Iran, Iraq, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia that. These countries have either been involved or affected by the war. This proves why global oil prices escalate whenever there is a conflict involving the Arab world and the Western League. Inflated oil prices increases the cost of production since oil is used in various stages of production such as manufacturing and transportation. High oil prices are reflected in consumer products as increase in retail prices. I consider this to be the actual cost of war† Peter: â€Å"your argument is correct however, you are more biased to answering the question of who bear the cost of war instead of the cost of war. Wars happen in reality and therefore analysis needs a realistic focus. The cost of war is the immediate impacts of war that changes the financial status of the parties involved in war. In this case the cost of war will be evaluated from the cost of damages resulting from a conflict and the cost of maintaining combatants in the battlefield or maintaining a frontline†. Simon: â€Å"I think the issue is

St. Pauls Chapel Columbia University Campus Essay

St. Pauls Chapel Columbia University Campus - Essay Example It’s a triumph of the Chapel’s architecture that it manages to be both of and apart from the Columbia University campus that surrounds it. It’s also one of the most interesting things about the Chapel: the ways it uses architectural details to create a sense of sacred space on the bustling campus. You enter the Chapel through a columned portico (another departure from other University buildings, which have open porticoes). Above the portico, the Latin phrase Pro ecclesia Dei (for the Church of God) is carved in clean Roman lettering. The portico, though technically outside the building, functions as the Chapel’s narthex, or entrance. (Because the Chapel is designed according to the traditional cruciform — or Latin cross — plan, as befits an Episcopal place of worship, entering the Chapel through the narthex is on the western end of the building, opposite the liturgical east position of the altar.) It serves another purpose as well. With its exquisitely carved cherub-crested column porticoes, exquisitely tiled ceiling and inlaid marble floors, the portico is also a transition from the everyday to the sacred. Stepping between the columns, you enter a space of echoing silence and shadowy beauty, narrow like the path to heaven and as intricately detailed as a medieval painting. (I liked the scallop shells on either side of the portico; even if I hadn’t known they were a traditional symbol to welcome pilgrims, their mysterious presence amid the brick and limestone would have added to the otherworldly aura of the building.) The portico, which is both open and closed at the same time, inside and outside the Chapel, part of and not part of the campus, serves as an appropriate entrance to the spiritual space of the Chapel. Just walking the relatively short distance, you find your footsteps slowing down, the outside world receding almost like a dream. The interior is justifiably praised for its ornate loveliness, and

How Does Culture Impact On International Business Management Essay

How Does Culture Impact On International Business Management Essay Introduction The study of (Pothukuchi, Damanpour, Choi, Chen, Park, 2002) examines the effect of dimensions of national and organizational culture differences on the performance of international joint venture (IJV). They used the data from a survey of executives from joint ventures between Indian partners and partners from other counties to do the research. Finally, Pothukuchi, Damanpour, Chen, Park (2002) found that there is a negative effect from culture distance on the performance of international joint venture originates from differences in national culture and differences in organizational culture. Whats more, they found that the presumed negative effect from culture distance on the performance of international joint venture originates more from differences in organizational culture than from differences in national culture. Therefore, from the study of (Pothukuchi, Damanpour, Choi, Chen, Park, 2002), we can know that differences in national culture have a negative impact on the performance of international joint venture. Moreover, differences in organizational culture also have a negative impact on the performance of international joint venture. Now, we know that differences in national culture and differences in organizational culture both have a significant impact on the performance of the international business. Differences in culture between partners have a significant impact on the international business. Therefore, it is very important and necessary for the international business people to study and understand how culture impact on the international business. Moreover, Sirmon and Lane (2004) said that when the domain of a social group is closer to the value-creating activities of an alliance, cultural differences between the partners members of that social group will be more disruptive. From Sirmon and Lane (2004), we can know that when cultural differences between the partners are very relevant to the value-creating activities of an alliance, cultural differences will significantly affect the performance of the international business. Therefore, it is very important and worthy to study how the cultural differences between the partners impact the performance of international alliance. Whats more, Sirmon and Lane (2004) found that when the domain of a social group is closer to the value-creating activities of an alliance, organizational culture differences between the partners members of that social group will be more disruptive than national culture differences. Furthermore, they also found that professional culture is the most relevant t o the value-creating activities of an alliance. Therefore, when the domain of a social group is closer to the value-creating activities of an alliance, the professional culture differences between the partners members of that social group will be the most disruptive. From the study of (Pothukuchi, Damanpour, Choi, Chen, Park, 2002) and the study of (Sirmon and Lane, 2004), the culture differences have a significant impact on the international business when the domain of a social group is closer to the value-creating activities of an alliance. This essay will discuss how the culture impact on the international business. Moreover, this essay will discuss how the culture differences impact the international business based on three main readings: (Morrison, 2006, p.168), the study of (Pothukuchi, Damanpour, Choi, Chen, Park, 2002) and the study of (Sirmon and Lane, 2004). Section 2 is definition of culture and international business. Section 3 is discussion and analysis of how the culture differences impact the international business. Section 4 is the conclusion and some suggestions. Section 2 Definition of Culture and International business Culture In order to discuss how the culture differences impact the international business, we must understand what culture is first. Culture can be broadly defined as , a learned, shared, compelling, interrelated set of symbols whose meanings provide a set of orientations for members of a society (Terpstra and David, 1991, p.6). From (Morrison, 2006, p.169), we can know that culture has many aspects, for example, value, behavior, beliefs, communication, sport, music and customs. International Business In order to discuss how the culture differences impact the international business, we should also understand what international business is. From (Morrison, 2006, p.5), we know that an international business forms when business activities of a company straddle two or more countries. A global business forms when a company expands to the extent that a large portion of its business is outside its home country (Morrison, 2006, p.6). Salk and Shenkar (2001, p.163) said that International alliances reside at the confluence of different cultures which include national, organizational and occupational cultures. Therefore, it is very important to study and understand how different cultures impact on the international business. Section 3 Discussion and analysis of how the culture differences impact the international business. Pothukuchi et al. (2002) found that partners cultural differences may have more influence on the performance of international alliance as those differences become more directly related to the alliances primary value-creating activities. An international alliances performance is driven by the alliances effectiveness in achieving its primary value-creating activities. Moreover, Harrison et al. (2001) said that resource complementarity between partners of international alliance is often a necessary condition to optimize this value creation. Therefore, in order to share, combine and leverage complementary resources, the partners employees must interact effectively. Many researchers found that national and organizational culture differences between these employees affect their interactions. This means that differences in national and organizational culture have a significant impact on the performance of international business. It is very important and necessary for the international busin ess people to study and understand different national cultures and organizational cultures. (Morrison, 2006, p.168) also said that culture differences can directly impact the success or failure of a project. He also said that achieving a successful outcome will depend on sensitivity to differences in cultures between partners. This means sensitivity to differences in norms of behavior, value systems and languages between the partners will impact the success or failure of a project. Whats more, Trompenaars (1994) also said that for international business, grasping the interacting cultural dynamic between the global and the local is the key to be successful. Therefore, for international business, sensitivity to differences in cultures and grasping the interacting cultural dynamic between the global and the local is very important because culture differences can directly affect the success or failure of a project. Moreover, Sirmon and Lane, (2004) said that cultural differences stems from national, organizational and professional cultures. The differences in national, organizational and professional culture can inhibit international alliance partners employees ability to interact effectively. This essay will discuss how the culture differences affect the international business from three different aspects: national culture, organizational culture, and professional culture. National Culture We know that different countries have different cultures. From (Morrison, 2006, p.172), nations are distinguishable from each other by a shared cultural history, for example, religion, language, or racial identity. Moreover, all these distinguishing characteristics blend into a national culture. Common language, shared religious, shared moral values, shared history, relationship between the individual and group, and attitudes to education are all the elements of national culture. National culture relates primarily to deep-seated values (Hofstede et al., 1990). National culture influences family life, organizational culture, education, and economic and political structures (Morrison, 2006, p.172). Sirmon and Lane, (2004) also said that the influence of national culture is strong and long lasting. Organizations, while they may develop their own specific values and behavior, are also highly influenced by the national culture of their home country (Morrison, 2006, p.202). Moreover, Hofst ede (1991) found that national culture explains 50% of the differences in managers attitudes, beliefs, and values. Albert (1991) said that national culture differences are clearly seen in economic and political systems, educational systems, and other institutions. Therefore, Sirmon and Lane, (2004) said that national culture differences between partners of the international alliance can challenge the development of successful relationships. Park and Ungson (1997) said that these challenges stem partially from the lack of shared norms or values. Moreover, this lack of common understanding may undermine the partners interpretation of each others strategic intent, which is crucial in global markets and partnerships (Hitt et al., 1995). Whats more, Hennart and Zengs (2002) research findings also suggests that differences in national culture can disrupt collaboration and learning between partners of the international alliance. Furthermore, Sirmon and Lane, (2004) said that a lack of shar ed values and norms may reduce effective communication, trust and knowledge sharing in joint ventures. They said that all these problems have been found to lead to lower the performance of the international business. However, differences in national culture can be beneficial. For example, when the managers work with the foreign partners, they will spend more effort on avoiding misunderstandings in international alliances than they would in domestic alliances. In this case, differences in national culture can lead to high-level communication and a more sustained collaboration. Therefore, differences in national culture also have a good and positive impact on the international business. Whats more, Chui et al. (2002) and Gibson (1999) also said that National culture has been shown to impact on major business activities, from capital structure to group performance. Now, we know that differences in national culture have a significant impact on the international business. Therefore, it is very important to study and understand how the national culture impact on the international business. This essay will also discuss how the national culture impact on the international business by discussing and analyzing how language and religions impact on the international business. (1). Languages Common language is an element of national culture. Language is the basic means of communication between people. Language facilitates social interaction and fosters a system of shared values and norms (Morrison, 2006, p.174). If partners of international alliance cannot have common language to communicate, they cannot cooperate and interact because they cannot communicate. Business people cannot do business with the people who speak different languages. Nowadays, the importance of English as a global language extends far beyond the number of native speakers. English as a global language and common language helps people who speak different languages to communicate. English language is an intercultural means of communicating. Business people can use English in their international business activities. Business people now can do business with the people who speak different languages by using English. English helps the business people overcome the problems of intercultural communication in their international business activities. Therefore, having a common language is a very important necessary condition for international business. Today, most of South America is Spanish-speaking, moreover, in recent years Spanish companies have expanded in the region, attracted by a perceived affinity with these markets derived from a common language(Morrison, 2006, p.175-176). Moreover, in a low-context culture, communication is clear and direct, such as America. In a high-context culture, much goes unsaid because ambiguity is the norm and directness is avoided, such as Asian cultures (Morrison, 2006, p.174-175). Difference in language culture will also impact international alliance partners employees communication and inhibit their ability to interact effectively. Therefore, knowing and understanding the partners language culture well is also very important for international business. (2). Religions The system of values and beliefs that characterizes a culture may be embodied in a particular religion (Morrison, 2006, p.179). As well as religious power, religion may exercise considerable political power. It can form a major unifying force in society. In countries where religion is a major element of the cultural environment, sensitivity to local religious beliefs and practices is particularly important in building business relations (Morrison, 2006, p.180). Research has identified over 15,000 distinct religions and religious movements among the worlds population (Barrett, 1997). Therefore, there are many people who have religious beliefs in this world. Knowing the local religious beliefs and the business partners religious beliefs well is very important for the international business. Moreover, many social associations and political parties in many countries are commonly based on religious affiliations. Moreover, these form an essential dimension of the business environment. For example, the growth in membership and influence of large churches in parts of the US impacts on the social and cultural environment of the communities in which they are located. If there is an established religion in a location, a business must take account of its wide ramifications. If there are multiple religions in locations, a business as a good corporate citizen should not discriminate (Morrison, 2006, p.181-182). Knowing the business partners religious beliefs well will help to achieve good outcomes. Do not know the business partners religious beliefs well may lead to the failure of your business. Therefore, we can know that it is particularly important and necessary for the international business to know the business partners local religious beliefs well. Whats more, many aspects of business life are directly (or indirectly) affected by religious beliefs and practices. For example, particular foods that are forbidden such as beef for Hindus; ban or restrictions on consumption of alcoholic drink; religious festivals during which work may be forbidden; clothing requirements; requirement for women and men to be segregated in the work environment in Muslim societies; and the ban on Sunday shopping in some countries (Morrison, 2006, p.187). Organizational Culture From the study of (Pothukuchi, Damanpour, Choi, Chen, Park, 2002), we know that the negative effect on the performance of international joint venture originates more from differences in organizational culture than from differences in national culture. Whats more, from the study of (Sirmon and Lane, 2004), we know that when the domain of a social group is closer to the value-creating activities of an alliance, organizational culture differences between the partners members of that social group will be more disruptive than national culture differences. Therefore, from the study of (Pothukuchi, Damanpour, Choi, Chen, Park, 2002) and the study of (Sirmon and Lane, 2004), we can know that organization culture has more impact on the international business. Organizational culture is very important for the international business. Therefore, in order to discuss how the culture differences impact the international business, we must understand what organizational culture is. From (Morrison, 2006, p.195), organizational culture or corporate culture, like national culture, focuses on values, norms and behavioral patterns shared by the organization. An organizational culture is one that is deliberately fostered among employees, who may have come to the company from a variety of different cultural background. Characteristics of organizational culture include that, for example, common language, shared terminology, norms of behavior, and dominant values of the organization. Hofstede et al. (1990) said that whereas national culture relates primarily to deep-seated values, organizational culture relates primarily to shared beliefs in organizational practices and processes. Weber et al. (1996) found that different organizational cultures between acquirer and target could decrease top managers positive attitudes toward the merger and decrease their cooperation. Therefore, Sirmon and Lane, (2004) said that organizational culture is very important for the success of mergers and acquisitions. They thought that when the partners have the same organizational culture, satisfaction, learning and effectiveness of interactions will be increased. Therefore, same organizational culture between the partners has positive impact on the success of mergers and acquisitions. Whats more, they also thought that if the partners have different organizational cultures, satisfaction, learning and effectiveness of interactions will be decreased. Moreover, from (Sirmon and Lane, 2004), we know when learning, satisfaction and effectiveness of interactions are decreased, the business processes used to share combine and leverage resources will be inhibited. Sirmon and Lane, (2004) said that it will be more difficult for partners who have different organizational cultures to effectively achieve the primary value-creating activities. Professional culture From (Van Maanen and Barley, 1984; Jordan, 1990 ¼Ã¢â‚¬ ºBrown and Duguid, 1991; Lave and Wenger, 1991), we know that professional cultures develop through the socialization. Individuals receive the socialization during their training and occupational education. Then this socialization will be reinforced through the individuals professional experiences and interactions that lead to a broad understanding of how their occupation should be conducted. Moreover, Trice and Beyer (1993) said that professional cultures form as people, who span individual organizations, share a set of norms, values and beliefs related to their occupation. Sirmon and Lanes (2004) research findings suggests that professional culture differences are often the most relevant and salient cultural differences that the interacting employees face, and thus professional culture differences are the most disruptive to the alliances effectiveness in achieving its primary value-creating activities Section 4 Conculsion This essay discussed and analyzed that how the culture impact on the international business. Moreover, this essay discussed how the culture differences impact the international business based on three main readings: (Morrison, 2006, p.168), the study of (Pothukuchi, Damanpour, Choi, Chen, Park, 2002) and the study of (Sirmon and Lane, 2004). After discussing how the culture differences impact the international business, we know that: An international alliances performance is driven by the alliances effectiveness in achieving its primary value-creating activities. Moreover, resource complementarity between partners of international alliance is often a necessary condition to optimize this value creation. In order to share, combine and leverage complementary resources, the partners employees must interact effectively. However, national and organizational culture differences between these employees affect their interactions. Therefore, partners cultural differences may have more influence on the performance of international alliance as those differences become more directly related to the alliances primary value-creating activities. Achieving a successful outcome will depend on sensitivity to differences in cultures between partners. This means sensitivity to differences in norms of behavior, value systems and languages between the partners will impact the success or failure of a project. Therefore, culture differences can directly impact the success or failure of a project. Cultural differences stems from national, organizational and professional cultures. The differences in national, organizational and professional culture can inhibit international alliance partners employees ability to interact effectively. Differences in national culture lead to the lack of shared norms and value. The lack of shared values and norms may reduce effective communication, trust and knowledge sharing in the international business. Moreover, this lack of common understanding may undermine the partners interpretation of each others strategic intent, which is crucial in global markets and partnerships. All these problems have been found to lead to lower the performance of the international business. Therefore, differences in national culture can disrupt collaboration and learning between partners of the international alliance. Differences in national culture may have a negative impact on the performance of the international business. In some circumstance, differences in national culture can lead to high-level communication and a more sustained collaboration between the partners. Differences in national culture also have a good and positive impact on the international business. Therefore, differences in national culture can also be beneficial for the international business. Knowing and understanding the partners language culture well is also very important for international business. In countries where religion is a major element of the cultural environment, sensitivity to local religious beliefs and practices is particularly important in building business relations. When the domain of a social group is closer to the value-creating activities of an alliance, organizational culture differences between the partners members of that social group will be more disruptive than national culture differences. Therefore, the negative effect on the performance of international joint venture originates more from differences in organizational culture than from differences in national culture. Moreover, different organizational cultures between acquirer and target could decrease top managers positive attitudes toward the merger and decrease their cooperation. Organizational culture is very important for the success of mergers and acquisitions. Professional cultures form as people, who span individual organizations, share a set of norms, values and beliefs related to their occupation. Professional culture differences are often the most relevant and salient cultural differences that the interacting employees face, and thus professional culture differences are the most disruptive to the alliances effectiveness in achieving its primary value-creating activities. Some suggestion for the international business which reside at the confluence of different cultures: Morrison, (2006, p.202) said that in the international environment, a polycentric approach will make it easier for the international organization to adapt to the different cultural environments of foreign operations. (Morrison, 2006, p.168) also said that joint ventures is a good way to make international business relationships successful. Whats more, cultures are not fixed and static. Cultures can change. Therefore, organizations should be capable of change as they expand internationally because there are interactions between cultures and growth of international markets and global brands. Albert, M. (1991) Capitalisme contre Capitalisme, Paris: Seuil. Barrett, D. (1997) Annual statistical table on global mission:1997, International Bulletin of Missionary Research, 1 (1):24-5. Brown, J.S. and Duguid, P. (1991) Organizational learning and communities of practice: toward a unified view of working, learning, and innovation, Organization Science 2(1): 40-57. Chui, A.C.W., Lloyd, A.E. and Kwok, C.C.Y. (2002) The determination of capital structure: is national culture a missing piece to the puzzle? Journal of International Business Studies 33(1): 99-127. Gibson, C.B. (1999) Do they do what they believe they can? Group-efficacy beliefs and group performance across tasks and cultures, Academy of Management Journal 42(2): 138-152. Harrison, J.S., Hitt, M.A., Hoskisson, R.E. and Ireland, R.D. (2001) Resource complementary in business combinations: extending the logic to organizational alliances, Journal of Management 27: 679-690. Hennart, J.-F. and Zeng, M. (2002) Cross-cultural differences and joint venture longevity, Journal of International Business Studies 33(4): 699-716. Hitt, M.A., Tyler, B.B., Hardee, C. and Park, D. (1995) Understanding strategic intent in the global marketplace, Academy of Management Executive9 (2): 12-19. Hofstede, G. (1991) Cultures, Organizations: Software of the Mind, London: McGraw-Hill Hofstede, G., Neuijen, B., Ohayv, D.D. and Sanders, G. (1990) Measuring organizational cultures: a qualitative and quantitative study across twenty cases, Administrative Science Quarterly 35: 286-316. Jordan, A.T. (1990) Organizational culture and culture change: a case study, Studies in Third World Societies 42: 209-226. Lane, H.W. and Beamish, P.W. (1990) Cross-cultural cooperative behavior in joint ventures in LDCs, Management International Review 30(special issue): 87-102. Lave, j. and Wenger, E. (1991) Situated Learning: Legitimate Peripheral Participation, Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. Lyles, M.A. and Salk, J.E. (1996) Knowledge acquisitions from forging parents in international joint ventures: an empirical examination in the Hungarian context, Journal of International Business Studies 27(5): 877-903. Morrison, J. (2006), The International Business Environment, palgrave macmillan Parkhe, A. (1991) Interfirm diversity, organizational learning, and longevity, Journal of International Business Studies 22(4): 579-601. Park, S.H. and Ungson, G.R. (1997) The effect of national culture, organizational complementarity, and economic motivation on joint venture dissolution, Academy of Management Journal 40(2): 279-307. Pothukuchi, V., Damanpour, F., Choi, J., Chen, C.C. and Park, S.H. (2002) National and organizational culture differences and international joint venture performance, Journal of International Business Studies 33: 243-265. Salk, J.E. and Shenkar, O. (2001) Social identify in an international joint venture: an exploratory case study, Organization Science 12: 161-178. Sirmon, D.G., and Lane, P.J. (2004), A model of cultural differences and international alliance performance, Journal of international Business Studies (2004) 35, 306-319. Terpstra, V. and David, K. (1991) The Cultural Environment of International Business (Cincinnati: South-Western Publishing Co.). Trice, H.M. and Beyer, J.M. (1993) The Culture of Work Organizations, Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice-Hall. Trompenaars, F. (1994) Riding the Waves of Culture (New York: Irwin). Van Maanen, j. and Barley, S.R. (1984) Occupational communities: culture and control in organizations, Research in Organizational Behavior 6: 287-365. Weber, Y., Shenkar, 0. and Raveh, A. (1996) National and corporate culture fit in mergers/acquisitions: an exploratory study, Management Science 42:1215-1227.

Physics of Self Bailing Boats and How I Built One :: physics boat boating ship

The Basic Principle behind a Self Bailing Boat Actually the idea is quite simple really, it consists of a floor above the hull with open drain plugs in the rear of the boat and above the water line. By this simple method as water comes in to the boat it will drain right out of the back. If too much weight is in the boat then water will simply come in through the drain holes. This is no worry to me because I can always just put some plugs in the drain holes when carrying a heavy load. I made the decision to build the aluminum skiff 17ft long and strong enough to hold an outboard motor with a mass of 141kg (approx. mass of 90Hp Mercury). My Boat Dimensions I made the decision to build the aluminum skiff 17ft long and strong enough to hold an outboard motor with a mass of 141kg (approx. mass of 90Hp Mercury). Knowing the amount of material I would need; I then went on to estimate the mass of the boat when finished to be 239kg. I also made the decision to build a fuel tank in the front of the boat holding 141kg of gasoline (≈ 38gal). The design of the boat permits the boat bottom to have an estimated area of submersion of 5.55m2 (L= 3.7m W=1.5m). With these measurements in hand I knew I needed a way to determine the height from the bottom of the boat at which I should build my second deck and drain plugs. I got a value from a veteran boat builder but surely there was an equation to help me out. Archimedes’s Principle for Floating Objects: So hears the theory: Archimedes principle says that the magnitude of the buoyant force always equals the weight of the fluid displaced by the object. This buoyant force always acts upward through the point that was the center of gravity of the displaced fluid. In the case of floating objects the buoyant force is equal to the force of gravity on the object. Knowing that the change in pressure is equal to the Buoyant force per unit area (ΔP = B/A) we see that B = (ΔP)A and ΔP = Ï gH where Ï  is the density of the fluid g is the acceleration due to gravity and H is the height of the fluid displaced.

People Only See What They Are Prepared to See Essay

Ralph Waldo Emerson once said, â€Å"People only see what they are prepared to see.† A statement so veridical, that the people to whom it implies are either not capable of understanding it or simply cannot accept it. In fact, most of humanity can read the undeniably prodigious quote ad infinitum, without comprehending the profound meaning behind it. There are four types of individualities, each reacting to the quote in a different manner. And how individuals react to it, determines their general responses to the situations which life brings upon them. Innocent minds are unable to adequately understand the significance of the quote. Because of their naivety, they are neither able to respond intelligibly to the quote, nor to most situations in life. They are gullible and non-opinionative, thus, only seeing what others want them to see. The majority of people so caracterised are infants and young children. They fail to look at things from various perspectives because they have not yet had enough experience in life. For instance, if you speak of war with a child, he or she will not know how to respond. The mind of the person is too young for knowing what to do when spoken to about political conflicts, patriotisms, warfare, death and other serious matters. In most situations, their innocent, unsophisticated minds, simply cannot understand the difference between wrong and right until they develop into more sophisticated beings. Ignorant people avoid thinking about anything which does not concern them personally. These people apparently have the ability to see, but because of their personality, are unable to. Until they start caring, they will not be able to see things which demand care, because they are not yet ready. Many adolescents and unsuccessful people would fall into this category. And why I stereotype many unsuccessful people is due to the fact that they are ignorant to education and in time, fail to succeed in life. Education is the knowledge of life, and if avoided, results in failure at it. If again, you mention war to an ignorant being, he or she will dismiss the subject before it could reach the brain’s thinking process. These personalities could never go below the surface of the topic. Stubbornness is similar to ignorance, but not quite the same. The stubborn will not hesitate to dive into the ocean, but will never reach the bottom so they can examine it in depth. These people will hear a topic; they will think about the topic; but before looking at it from another viewpoint, their stubbornness will compel them to form a prejudice opinion. These would be the people who, when spoken to of war, will take a stand on one side before examining the other. For example, if America is warring with Iraq, many stubborn Americans will support their leader no matter how immoral his actions may be. Same would imply to the stubborn Iraqis, who will deny the fact that their leader was corrupt without visualizing him from his victims’ perspective. Because they are the citizens of their country, they will overlook its faults and never question their government’s actions, thus, diving into the situation, but only going half way down, because that is what they are prepar ed to see, therefore, that is what they see. The realists see everything and accept it as it is. They have the power to make unbiased decisions and opinions. These are the people who will stand up for what they believe in. They are logical and open-minded. A realist would dive into the ocean, go to the bottom, take time to look at everything in depth, then, and only then, will form an opinion backed by much reasoning. Realists can see everything. Their minds have no road blocks blocking information from entering and processing through their brains. A realist will look at Emerson’s quote and completely comprehend its meaning. To what depth you understand this essay will determine how ready your mind is to accept the facts stated in it. Literally, you will see everything on these pages. However, mentally, your mind will comprehend only the details herein, for which it is prepared to accept. If you have read this far, you certainly are not ignorant; you have already gone below the surface of the quote. If you have understood and accepted everything, congratulations, you are in fact, a realist! If not, time may be the remedy to your innocence or stubbornness.

A Psychological Perspective on Behaviorism

A Psychological Perspective on Behaviorism Free Online Research Papers John Watson was born in 1878 and at the age of 16, went to college. He attained a Masters degree at the age of 21, from where he went on to be a school principal. His job lasted a year and then he moved on to attend school once more at the University of Chicago. There he studied philosophy under John Dewey. He was not satisfied with Deweys teachings so he sought out a different advisor and settled on functionalist psychologist James Rowland Angell and physiologist Henry Donaldson (Wikipedia, 2007). Taking what he learned from Angell and Donaldson, Watson began forming his own theories about behavior, eventually known as behaviorism. John B. Watson was soon to become known as the founder of the school of behaviorism in psychology. According to Wikipedia, Behaviorism (also called learning perspective) is a philosophy of psychology based on the proposition that all things which organisms do- including acting, thinking and feeling- can and should be regarded as behaviors. Watsons theory was considered classical behaviorism otherwise known as classical conditioning. Watsons view on behavior was that it was purely elicited. He believed that people did not experience emotions, that they were a response to some other stimuli. Watsons goal for classical behaviorism was to create a more objective science. John Watsons most famous experiment was that of little Albert. Albert was a small child who was brought to work everyday by his parent, a laboratory worker. Everyday Albert would play with the lab rats to keep himself occupied. Watson viewed Alberts activity with the rat as a stimulus. Albert was given the rat (stimuli) which elicited the play behavior. In the experiment, Albert was given the rat to play with, only now the sound of a hammer hitting a metal bar was introduced when the play behavior began. After seven presentations of the rat and the loud sound that scared Albert, a new response was noticed, crying, whenever the rat was introduced back to Albert (Watson Rayner, 1920). This fear response generalized to a new stimuli: Albert also showed fear (CR) when things (CS) similar to the fuzzy lab rat were presented (e.g., men with beards, dogs, fur coats, Santa Claus masks) (Mclntyre, 2003). John Watson was an innovator as well as the father of the school of behaviorism. His work in classical conditioning continues on today in both psycholo gy and in the zoological society. B.F. Skinner, born in 1904, attended college at the Hamilton College in New York. He received a degree in English Literature in 1926 with the intention of becoming a writer. After a year of unsuccessful writing, he chanced upon a copy of Bertrand Russells recently published book An Outline of Philosophy, in which Russell discussed the behaviorist philosophy of psychologist John B. Watson (Wikipedia, 2007). After reading the book Skinner decided to seek admission to Harvard University as a psychology student. Even as a student at Harvard, Skinner became a forward thinker. While a graduate student, he invented the operant conditioning chamber and cumulative recorder, developed the rate of response as a critical dependent variable in psychological research, and developed a powerful, inductive, data-driven method of experimental research (Wikipedia, 2007). After attaining his Ph.D. in psychology in 1931, Skinner went on to create his own school of thought known as Radical Behaviorism. Skinners theory suggests that behaviors are a result of the environment, that the behavior exhibited causes effects, whether positive or negative, that determines the probability of the behavior being reproduced. His theory also paid heavy attention to the schedule of reinforcement. The reinforcement schedule suggests that the more that the behavior is rewarded, the higher the chances that the behavior will reoccur whereas the absence of a reward decreases the probability of the behavior repeating itself. Skinn ers type of conditioning has become known as operant conditioning.It is true that both Watson and Skinner have similar outlooks on behavior however; they do have one major difference. John B. Watson argued against the use of references to mental states, and held that psychology should study behavior directly, holding private events as impossible to study scientifically. Skinner rejected this position conceding the importance of thinking, feelings and inner behavior in his analysis (Wikipedia, 2007). In other words, Skinner believed everything was a behavior, including emotions and that they too should be considered. Edward C. Tolman, born in 1886, received a Ph.D. from Harvard University in 1915 and although Tolman firmly behaviorist in his methodology, he was not a radical behaviorist like B.F. Skinner (Wikipedia, 2007). Tolman believed that learning could occur without a rein forcer (such as a food reward commonly used with animals in both classic and operant conditioning). He believed that what was learned could be used in other environments, that the behavior was not just an automatic response to the stimuli. Tolman, even with a behaviorist view on his subjects, became known for his cognitive theory of learning, he thought of learning as developing from bits of knowledge and cognitions about the environment and how organisms relate to it (a2zpsychology, 2006). Tolmans experiments also involved lab rats but Tolman studied the results of the rats running mazes without the reward. This study introduced the theory of latent learning (that learning can occur with the absence of a reward). This theory relates to humans as well. Tolman believed that humans learn without being aware of it, only when the information is needed, does the person become aware of the learning that occurred. Tolman also believed that motive drives behavior and only when there is a shift in the motive, will there be a disturbance of that behavior. Eventually, Tolmans theories led him to chart cognition. Cognitive maps are a method we use to structure and store spatial knowledge, allowing the minds eye to visualize images in order to reduce cognitive load, and enhance recall and learning of information (Wikipedia, 2007). So even though Tolman studied behavior, he came upon other mental theories. In Conclusion In comparison, John B. Watson, B.F. Skinner, and Edward C. Tolman were all behaviorists of some sort. They all believed that behavior was the underlying reason that a person functioned the way that they did. It was only in the details that they differed. Watson, a classical behaviorist, believed that there was a connection between response and environment. According to Mclntyre 2003), Prominent researchers identified with this orientation noted that an event that formally did not elicit a behavior (known as a neutral stimulus) can be made to do so by pairing (presenting) it with an unconditioned (already present) stimulus. This newly effective stimulus (and the responses to it) are said to be conditioned (trained). Watsons theories continue to be practiced in modern psychology. When a patient has difficulty with certain behaviors, many psychologists will try to reverse it with behavior modification. For example, a person with a fear of planes may go to a psychologist who will then expose the person to pictures of planes, then move to exposing the person to a virtual flight, then take the person to an airport, on the second trip to the airport, the person will stand in a terminal, the next visit it may be to sit on a plane, then eventually, to take a short flight. All these exercises would gradually desensitize the person to their fears, thus changing the behavior. Skinners theory was a bit different from Watsons in that behavior was a result of consequence. He rejected the idea of inner causes for behavior, and placed emphasis on observable behavior as opposed to the theorizing, based on unverifiable evidence, often done by others (Mclntyre, 2003). He believed that the reappearance of a behavio r was based solely on the consequence received at the time the behavior was presented. Skinner also believed that a schedule of reinforcement could help or hinder the progression of the behavior. If the behavior was rewarded every single time, the behavior would eventually extinguish. Skinner believed that behaviors still needed to be driven; that there needs to be motivation in order for the behavior to occur again. Skinners theory is still a practiced psychology. His theory however, is used more frequently among animal trainers. Animal trainers use operant conditioning to elicit responses from animals. Trainers will usually take a natural behavior and turn it into a solicited behavior. Take for example, the dolphin that jumps out of the water. In a controlled environment, that behavior would be rewarded when it is observed. Eventually the animals behavior would be paired with a hand gesture or a whistle and be rewarded with a fish. After several pairings the animal will associate the whistle with the jump and the reward, this it has been conditioned to produce a beha vior motivated by reward. Finally, Tolmans theory of behavior, learning could occur even with the absence of a reward and could happen without knowledge that learning occurred. However, one of Tolmans greatest discoveries had to do with the cognitive map. While Tolman researched behavior, he noted the thought processes that occurred within his subjects. This lead Tolman to be seen as the father of cognitive theory. His cognition map is used in modern psychology as well as a number of other professions. Watson. Skinner and Tolman were all fathers in the field of psychology. Their ideas contributed to the way that behavior is seen. Their theories have helped to create many forms of behavior modification as well as the processes that occur during thought. Although psychologys theories grow and change daily, these three psychologists theories will maintain their values in modern psychology. References: A2zpsychology (2006). Edward C. Tolman (1886-1959). Retrieved on November 23, 2007 from a2zpsychology.com/great_psychologists/edward_c_tolman.htm B.F. Skinner (2007). In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved on November 24, 2007 from http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=B._F._Skinneroldid=173748857 Cognitive Map (2007). In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved on November 24, 2007 from http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Cognitive_mapoldid=171599404 Edward C. Tolman (2007). In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved on November 24, 2007 from http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Edward_C._Tolmanoldid=170339259 John B. Watson. (2007) In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved on November 24, 2007 from http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=John_B._Watsonoldid=172124112 Mclntyre, T. (2003). The History of Behaviorism. Retrieved on November 23, 2007 from behavioradvisor.com/BehavoristHistory.html Watson, J., Rayner, R. (1920). Conditioned Emotional Reactions. Retrieved on November 25, 2006 from http://psychclassics.yorku.ca/Watson/emotion.htm Research Papers on A Psychological Perspective on BehaviorismEffects of Television Violence on ChildrenStandardized TestingThree Concepts of PsychodynamicHip-Hop is ArtThe Relationship Between Delinquency and Drug Use19 Century Society: A Deeply Divided EraGenetic EngineeringQuebec and CanadaThe Spring and AutumnThe Hockey Game

These technology trends are changing retail HR practices -TheJobNetwork

These technology trends are changing retail HR practices -TheJobNetwork As a consumer, you’ve probably noticed how tech is creeping into the way we shop every day. Discount codes and sale notifications mysteriously appear in your inbox as soon as you get close to the store (â€Å"Well, I’m in the neighborhood anyway†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ). Customer service happens at the speed of a Tweet. Automated checkout kiosks keep the line moving. There’s no question that retail is an industry that has embraced the digital. But what about behind the scenes, in the back rooms and offices? Retailers are increasingly relying on high-tech HR solutions for their employees as well.Paperless hiringWith a high employee turnover rate, retail HR can create a never-ending blizzard of paperwork, as you probably know all too well. Intake forms, training manuals, performance management docs†¦those add up for a large, and likely ever-changing staff. Putting application systems online (like directing potential hires to a computer kiosk or an online portal to comp lete the application process) doesn’t just save you money on your file cabinet budget. It can speed up the time to hire, with fewer touchpoints between the candidate’s information and who needs to review it. Putting new employee orientation and training materials online also creates a more efficient pipeline, with information perennially ready to go and accessible.Keeping applicant metrics all in one place also improves your hiring process, weeding out candidates with weak skills and identifying strong potential applicants by comparing them to an existing pool of data. Automating applicant review (even to a small extent) can also help minimize bias in the hiring process by adding blind review steps.Digital performance managementDigital performance management programs can consolidate all of that work (and information) in one place- making it more efficient to manage employee data, and also giving you more actionable info in one place. This gives you visibility into the information that can help drive retention, development, and promotion. Having all of an employee’s information in one single profile can mitigate work issues or skill gaps before they become a significant problem, or help identify when an employee is ready to be groomed for the next steps.Having the process more automated and user-friendly also allows for more checkpoints between employees and management, and gives real-time information about employee engagement, morale, etc. It used to be that performance reviews and two-way feedback were rare in retail, but performance management platforms close that gap and make the communication easier.hbspt.cta.load(2785852, '9e52c197-5b5b-45e6-af34-d56403f973c5', {});Daily employee engagement and feedbackHaving a system for clocking employees in and out is hardly novel in retail, but having a digital platform for employees to give feedback about their day, or pass along information for the next shift, is relatively new. Automated schedu ling programs (typically used as part of a larger HR software suite) serve the main purpose of tracking employee time and creating schedules, but also expand an employee’s voice. Whether it’s asking employees to verify that something specific was completed before they leave, or leaving an open text field for direct feedback, these programs can collect more nuanced data than â€Å"Steve was here for 8 hours.† It gives the back office even more real-time insight into how employees are feeling, what their days are like, and other metrics that can be used to improve employee morale and retention.Digital tools give HR departments much more leeway in managing employees, and building stronger communication between the sales floor and the corporate life backstage. Integrating systems and software into everyday employee interactions increases efficiency, while also improving employee relations.

Brainwashed by Kashonia Carnegie Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Brainwashed by Kashonia Carnegie - Essay Example Dr. Kashonia stated that a person’s heart and the brain were contradictory in decision-making. She explains that the heart can make us decide on things that the head clearly defines wrong ideas. In the text, the writer tells of memories of her childhood and adult life. It helps us to understand the impacts, both positive and negative, of childhood life on developing our personality and behavior. Carnegia has suffered dreadful treatments from others during her lifestyle. Instead of her family being her crying shoulder, they also joined in mistreating her. The stories make her memories more painful. Dr. Kashon uses her knowledge gained from the University and her self-study to tell us how self-discovery helped her choose her ways. She also mentions on acceptance and self-analysis being critical factors in leading the journey of life. The concepts form the basis of a major lesson from the story. In agreement with the author, the way we lead our childhood life greatly influences our character later on in life. Our family shapes our thinking. As a child, one will always take everything from the family positively until later in life when you come to realize that your greatest enemy was your family. Most are only aware of physical violence like rape, forgetting psychological abuse. Our childhood life makes us learn to endure some suffering. If not for her life as a kid, she would not have accepted her very psychologically abusive marriage at the age of 20. It was until sixty-three that she came to realize that her family played a significant role in her future suffering. In disagreement with the writer, Carnegie, being an adult should have tried to find out from her friend what marriage involved. She should have asked for answers why some things happened the way they did. Being intelligent is a gift thing but perseverance is a choice.