Extensive Notes: Role of Operations Management

Business Studies Notes Role of operation management: Strategic role of operations management- Operations refer to the business processes that involve transformation or, more generally, ‘production’. Applies both to the manufacturing and services sector. Turning raw materials and resources into outputs of finished goods or products. Qantas operations are strategically important because most organizational activity comprises the day to day activities within the operation function. * Cost leadership- Cost leadership involves aiming to have the lowest costs or to be the most price-competitive in the market.Qantas; Economies of scale, these are minimizations of cost because of the size of the business. Standardization, the more variations Qantas’ services like the types and frequency of the routes the higher production cost per unit. Technology, the adoption and application of advances in technology directly impact on production costs, reduction in labour costs. Waste, minimizing waste will deliver the lowest production costs, excess production, underutilization of labour or equipment, faulty or defective production and excess inventory. Goods/service differentiation- this approach does not mean competing on cost but by adding features to differentiate its products or service from its competitors. Qantas, Australia’s largest airline offering the most comprehensive domestic and international coverage. City flyer express service means that there are flights every 30 minutes in peak periods between the major capital cities in Australia. Also 76 international destinations. Qantas budget airline Jet star.Goods and services in different industries- manufacturing- standardized or customized products, perishable or non-perishable products, intermediate goods service- standardized (fast food) or customized (doctors, legal services etc. ) or even self-service. Interdependence with other key business functions- human resources, finance and marketing –exist because of and to support the operations function. However, operations cannot succeed with out their contribution to and direct participation in the transformation of inputs into the final outputs.Qantas recruitment- for everyone from pilots to baggage handlers and cleaners. Training and development- newer planes need to retrain pilots, maintenance crews and cabin staff to effectively integrate the new craft. Retained staff- invested heavily in training pilots and maintenance staff to the high level required in this industry, so they want to retain them. Influences Globalization; refers to the removal of barriers of trade between nations, creating new market opportunities.Characterized by integration between national economies, transfer of capital, labour, financial resources and technology. Qantas- launching new airlines in Asia, cost minimization to be more internationally competitive Technology: innovation of devices. Communication, keeping up with competitors, supp ly chain management, quality expectations. Qantas- newer planes, newer operational processes, more training required Quality expectations- how well designed, made and functional goods are, and the overall degree of competence with which service are organized and delivered.Qantas- new generation check in, new Q bad tags, newer planes, specially designed menus Cost-based completion; recognizes that prices cannot keep increasing and reducing cost is a way to maximize profits when revenues are fixed. Qantas- outsourcing, reform to HR practices employing more labour saving techniques, online bookings Government policies; political decisions affect the businesses rules and regulations, which in turn, directly affect the management of various key business functions.Qantas- more resources devoted to compliance Legal regulation; the regulations that shape business practices and procedures must be followed at the risk of penalty, hence the term compliance. Environmental sustainability; enviro nmental sustainability means that business operations should shaped around practices that consume resources today without compromising access to those resources for future generations. Qantas- purchasing new, environmentally sensitive aircraft, recycling, fuel conservationCorporate social responsibility; (CSR) is an important influence on business and its integrates financial social and environmental goals. Qantas- health surveillance program, energy and water conservation, recycling. * The difference between legal compliance and ethical responsibility; legal compliance refers to business abiding by the word of the law, where as ethical responsibility encompasses a much broader integration of social community and environmental concerns * Environmental sustainability and social responsibly:. Businesses are being asked to take increasing responsibility for the protection of the environment.The Earth is a fragile system, and needs high levels of support and informed intervention so tha t it may sustain itself. Qantas cultural diversity, reconciliation action plan is a program, which focuses on employing indigenous Australia’s. Also new aircraft now being delivered use less fuel per passenger. Social responsibility is good business — customers eventually find out which businesses are acting responsibly and which are not. Customers can react and stop buying a business’s product if they learn that the business is exploiting employees, accepting bribes or polluting the environment.Operations processes Inputs; labour, Energy, raw materials, machinery and technology (capital equipment) * Transformed resources: materials, information and customers. Are those inputs that are changed or converted in the operations process. The operations processes transform them. Transformed resources are also considered the resources that give the operations process its purpose or goal * Materials: Are the basic elements used in the production process and consist of t wo types: raw materials and intermediate goods. Raw: normally substances in their natural state such as mineral ore, timber oil and water. Qantas is the expensive fuel they use. * Intermediate good: which are goods manufactured and used in further manufacturing or processing. Qantas: examples are the food and ingredients for their catering services, stationary and computers * Information: is the knowledge gained from research, investigation and instruction, which result in an increase in understanding. The value of information lies mainly in its ability to influence behavior or decision-making.Qantas: in individual bookings (information) made by the customers are analyzed and transformed into decision as to which aircraft to use, which services are to offer. * Customers: Customers are generally thought of as being relevant to outputs, not inputs. Customers become transformed resources when their choices shape inputs. Qantas: customers are transformed by having their location changed from their starting point to the new destination. * Transforming resources (human resource, facilities): which are those inputs that carry out the transformation process.They enable the change and value adding to occur * Human resources: These are the people who assemble the inputs, operate and maintain the machinery and equipment used in the processes, fulfill the sales function, distribute the output and deal with the customers. Qantas this means everyone from cleaners and baggage handlers to the pilots and sales managers. * Facilities (capital): refer to the plant (factory or office) and machinery used in the operations processes.Major decisions include the design layout of the facilities, the number of facilities to be used, their location and their capacity. Qantas this includes the terminal buildings and their contents, maintenance facilities, spare parts holdings, aircraft, and even computers and motor vehicles. * Transformation processes: The main concept of operations proc esses is transformation, which is the conversion of inputs (resources) into outputs (goods or services). * The influence of volume, variation in demand and visibility (customer contact) * Volume: Volume refers to how much of a product is made.Volume flexibility refers to how quickly the transformation process can adjust to increases or decreases in demand. Standardized products. * Variety: The influence of variety on transformation processes is: the greater the variety made, the more the operations process needs to allow for variation. * Variation in demand: a variation in demand can impact significantly on transformation resources. An increase in demand will require increased inputs from suppliers, increased human resources, increased energy use and increased use of machinery and technology.Predicting demand. Qantas, experiences a predictable major increase in demand for school holidays and special events. * Visibility: Customer contact may be direct or indirect. Direct contact tak es the form of customer feedback given through surveys, interviews, warranty claims, letters, Indirect feedback comes through a review of sales data that gives an indication of customer preferences and market share data, through an observation of peoples’ decision-making processes and through consumer reviews.Because businesses seek to maximize sales, customer contact is essential and ultimately shapes the transformation processes. Qantas is high visibility because there is customer contact throughout the whole process. * Sequencing and scheduling: Sequencing and scheduling are two very important aspects that assist with structuring and ordering the transformation processes. Sequencing refers to the order in which activities in the operations process occur. Scheduling refers to the length of time activities take within the operations process.Qantas: flight schedule that a customer sees shows departure and arrival times. It also includes making sure that each flight has crews. (pilots, cabin, catering) * Grantt Charts: The Gantt chart outlines the activities that need to be performed, the order in which they should be performed and how long each activity is expected to take * Critical path analysis: The Critical Path Analysis (CPA) is a scheduling method or technique that shows what tasks need to be done, how long they take and what order is necessary to complete those tasks. Technology, task design and process layout: Qantas: a major business expense for Qantas is the terminal, hanger and maintenance space is which the operations process takes place. Optimum process layout at Qantas is where machines and equipment are grouped together by function. This enables Qantas to utilise space and labour efficiently and eliminate bottlenecks. * Technology: technology is the application of science or knowledge that enables people to do new things or perform established tasks in new and better ways.Qantas: has facilitated increase productivity, very often by direct ly replacing human capital. Examples include online check in, online booking, and electronic bag tags. * Task design: Task design involves classifying job activities in ways that make it easy for an employee to successfully perform and complete the task. Qantas: the break down of the full transformation process into the individual tasks to be preformed. * Process layout: The process layout is the arrangement of machines such that the machines and equipment are grouped together by the function (or process) they perform. Monitoring, controlling and improvement: Monitoring and control lead to improvements when there is a focus on quality and standards. Qantas involve detecting and discrepancy between planned and actual activity, taking corrective action and intervening to impose new plans if necessary. * Monitoring: Monitoring is the process of measuring actual performance against planned performance. Monitoring involves the measuring of all aspects of operations, from supply chain man agement and the use of inputs, through to transformation processes and outputs. Controlling: Control occurs when KPIs are assessed against predetermined targets and corrective action is taken if required. This means controlling compares what was intended to happen with what has actually occurred. * Improvement: Improvement refers to systematic reduction of inefficiencies and wastage, poor work processes and the elimination of any bottlenecks. A bottleneck is an aspect of the transformation process that slows down the overall processing speed or creates an impediment leading to a backlog of incompletely processed products. Outputs: Essentially outputs are the result of a business’s efforts — the final good or service that is delivered or provided to the consumer * Customer service: f a customer expresses dissatisfaction with a product on account of it being defective, not meeting quality expectations, finds wait times/lead times too long or returns the product or makes a warranty claim, then the operations processes need review. Qantas: meets the needs of customers. Also has adopted the ‘net promoter score’ as a key measuring of customer service.Qantas closed loop feedback program enables direct feedback from its 1100 frequent flyers. * Warranties: Warranty claims are made against goods that have defects arising from an issue in transformation. Although a small proportion of warranty claims are false, the number of claims made against a business on a particular product line or product range will give an indication of problems in the processing. Operations strategies: * Performances objectives: Performance objectives are goals that relate to particular aspects of the transformation processes.These objectives or targets will be set so that the business becomes more efficient, productive and profitable. * Quality: consumer expectations, which are used to inform the production standards applied by the business often determines Quality. Qu ality of design, conformance, service. Qantas: means consistently producing its services to customer expectations, doing things right. Includes, clean and tidy aircraft, staff are courteous, helpful and friendly and their website is user friendly. * Speed: Speed refers to the time it takes for the production and the operations processes to respond to changes in market demand.Speed requires that changes in input levels and processing times can be made in response to demand. Qantas: customer asking for their service and getting it. Things to increase speed of service are booking flights on line, on-line check in, check in kiosks and Q bag tags. * Dependability: dependability, as a performance objective, refers to how consistent and reliable a business’s products are. Dependability, in respect of goods, refers to how long the products are useful before they fail. Dependability refers to consistency of service standards and reliability.Qantas: time departures and arrivals, Qantas has outperformed its rivals in these statistics its dependability has been seriously eroded in recent years because of mechanical failures, and industrial disputes. * Flexibility: flexibility refers to how quickly operations processes can adjust to changes in the market. Time and flexibility are related; the quicker the processing time the greater the likelihood that processes can be adjusted quickly. Qantas: ability to respond to changes in market demand, either by changing the products offered, changing the mix of products, changing the volume of product or by changing the delivery times.Jet Star is Qantas’ response to the competition of low cost airlines. * Customization: Customization refers to creation of individualized products to meet the specific needs of the customers. Services are generally customized, although aspects of services can be standardized as seen in the fast-food sector. Customization means giving Qantas customers more options by varying the product in minor ways. It varies its products by offering jet start and a more no frills alternative and offering different classes of seating. Cost: Cost as a performance objective refers to the minimization of expenses such that operations processes are conducted as cheaply as possible. Qantas has interest in keeping their cost as low as is compatible with the levels of quality, speed, dependability and flexibility that their customers require. * Supple chain management: Supply chain management (SCM) involves integrating and managing the flow of supplies throughout the inputs, transformation processes (throughput and value adding) and outputs to best meet the needs of customers.Supply chain management refers to controlling the flow of supplies though Qantas’ whole operations process from sourcing the raw materials like fuel to final delivery to and service of the service. Increased transaction speed and increased customer satisfaction. Inventory is a major expense in the operations pr ocess. Raw materials such as fuel must be sourced and purchased, they must be stored and be available, they must be moved and they must be transformed. * Global sourcing: modern operations involve increasing levels of global sourcing –obtaining suppliers with out being constrained to local sources.There are some risks involved because of changing exchange rates and coming under laws and customs, which apply in other countries. Qantas has employed some pilots in New Zealand and some cabin staff in Asia at lower wages that paid in Australian and has some engine maintenance carried out in Malaysia on a cost benefit basis. * E-commerce: This is simply buying and selling on the internet. This technology has had a major impact on SCM. It has replaced time consuming and costly manual processes of the past.It provides for real time information on Quantity, Quality, availability, source and price of all goods and services to be instantly accessible from a range of suppliers local and international. * Logistics: this is the task of ensuring tat Qantas has al the Physical inputs in the quantities needed in the right place at the right time (e. g. pilots, cabin crew, baggage handling, maintenance and catering) for the operations process (fights) to take place undisrupted and hence at optimum efficiency. * Outsourcing: Outsourcing involves the use of external providers to perform business activities.The theory behind outsourcing is that when an external provider that specializes in a particular business function performs a service, it will do so at a lower cost and with a greater effectiveness than the same task done within the business hierarchy. * Advantages of outsourcing for Qantas: * Saving capital outlay-factory space and machinery are provided by another business at their expense * Saving in labour-staff management and expenses are born by the other business * Increased dependability- more than one external supplier can be accessed, thus ensuring security of supply. Saving in cost- the other business can provide the input at a lower price than it can be done in-house. * Access to higher level skills- the other business contains skills that do not exist in-house * Increased flexibility- variations in demand are managed by other business * Saving in management- having set up contracts, management can concentrate only on the tasks it does perform in-house. * Disadvantages of outsourcing for Qantas: * Dependency-the operations process is now dependent on another party for supply of inputs; failures in that external supply chain can cause major internal disruption and expense. Loss of control and security- there can be loss in control of standards and vulnerability to proprietary and patent data and information accessible by the supplier * Quality- control is no longer exercised over the inputs used by the outsourced supplier * False economy- outsourced inputs can become more expensive over time so constant review of the decision is warrante d * Cost- the one-off expense of redundancies to staff no longer required is an offset to the savings from outsourcing. Technology: Technology in the operations function may be classified according to whether it applies to and improves inputs, transformations processes and outputs; or whether it makes the managerial and administrative functions smoother. * Leading edge: Leading edge technology is the technology that is the most advanced or innovative at any point in time. Operations managers can distinguish their operations processes by utilizing the best available technologies. This can help businesses to create products more quickly and to higher standards, with less waste, and also help a business to operate more effectively. Established technology: Established technology is the technology that has been developed and widely used, and is simply accepted without question. Such technologies include the use of computers and various software packages in managing business operations an d functions. Established technologies are functionally sound and help to establish basic standards for productivity and speed. Qantas was one of a number of airlines who placed advance orders for the new airbus A380, but they opted to make sure they were NOT the airline to receive the very First one. Inventory management: inventory refers to the raw materials, work in progress (unfinished goods still undergoing the transformation process) and finished goods held by the business at a point in time. The extent of these holdings is an important operational strategic decision, because they represent significant capital outlay (cost), which is yet to yield revenue. To hold excess quantities adds additional cost on production, but to hold too little can result in disruption to production and loss of sales because customer demand cannot be met.This is more of an issue for manufacturing businesses than for Qantas because they do not ‘store’ product to meet customer demand like a manufacturing one does. Inventory management is the system that manages the ordering, storage and recovery of the material inputs used in production. * Quality management: Quality management refers to those processes that a business undertakes to ensure consistency, reliability, safety and fitness of purpose of product. In operations, quality management includes quality controls at each stage of processing.Qantas has marketed as a high quality, perfect safety record, full service airline and commanded premium fares; at the other end of the spectrum is jet star which has traded quality for price and markets as a no frill low cost airline. * Quality control: programmed inspections are carried out at key stages of Qantas’ service (on a continuing basis) to ensure the process is meeting specified standards. If not, then management intervenes and corrective action is taken to bring the process back within standards.It attempts to solve the root cause of Quality problems at Qanta s * Quality assurance: the minimum level of satisfactory quality at all stages of the process is continually monitored at Qantas by actual measurement and comparison against pre-determined standards. It attempts to broaden the organizational responsibility for quality at Qantas. * Quality improvement: Maintaining competitive advantage is not only a matter of maintaining quality of output; the aim must be to improve quality over time by reducing error, and finding better ways of performing the tasks leading to lower cost or higher quality at the same cost.All staff are invited to participate with suggestions and ideas. It also involves Qantas’ customers and suppliers. It attempts to make quality both central and strategic within Qantas. * Overcoming resistance the change. : All businesses are subject to change from the external environment. Legislative and regulatory changes, changes in economic conditions, social changes over time and technological breakthroughs all impact on the business and shape its operations.Moreover, change can also come from within the business through the initiative of staff or the application of technology and a focus on innovation. * Financial costs: One major cause of a resistance to change from managers and business owners is that of financial costs. The main financial costs associated with change include the:, cost of purchasing new equipment, cost of redundancies, costs of retraining employees, costs associated with structural reorganisation of the business, including changes to plant and equipment layouts. Purchasing new equipment: Qantas plan to spend $US 22 billion in new technology and equipment between 2011 and 2018. * Redundancy costs: to implement staff reductions incurs mandatory redundancy payments to the workers retrenched. The alternative to redundancies is to rely on attrition and recruit casual and part time workers. * Retraining costs: significant change incurs retraining expenditure. The adoption of the new reservation system, introduction of new business class, annual security training and engineering and maintenance for are aircraft. Plant layout cost: acquiring new aircraft requires re-organization of maintenance operations to seek increased capacity and efficiency. Jetstar is replacing Boeing 717s with airbus A380s so a new heavy maintenance base becomes necessary because the existing one cannot accommodate the larger planes. The A380 also requires refurbishment of the Qantas Jet base. * Inertia: the unenthusiastic response of some managers, some staff and even some of the owners is an impediment to change and will be evident and will have to be overcome.

Late Adulthood and End of Life Paper

Late Adulthood and End of Life Paper Late Adulthood and End of Life Paper Throughout a human beings lifespan, an individual experiences many pivotal changes both physically and mentally. Of all of these life stages, none is more difficult a reality as late adulthood. Individuals are given a taste of youth and vitality, and must watch as it is slowly taken away. In some cultures, the elderly are treated with respect and care, and in others, the elderly are considered a burden and receive little respect and poor care. How do perceptions of death and dying vary from culture to culture? The ancient Egyptians spent their entire lives preparing for death and the afterlife, but how do other cultures perceive these experiences? To gain a better perspective on late adulthood and the end of life, this paper will provide information on the areas of concern during these life stages such as health and wellness, stereotypes associated with late adulthood, and cultural view of death and dying. Health and wellness in late adulthood As individuals age the human body experiences many physical and mental changes. Aging or senescence represents these changes that the human body goes through which diminishes the body’s capacity to regenerate making it vulnerable to illness and disease (Berger, 2008). According to Berger (2008), â€Å"Gerontologists distinguish between primary aging, the universal changes that occur with senescence, and secondary aging, the consequences of particular diseases† (p. 620). The physical changes associated with aging are typically gradual with noticeable declines in hearing, vision, taste, and smell (Mesa Community College, 1997). In addition to the decline in sensory functions, some elderly individuals experience more prominent health concerns such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and a decrease in lung function. Other more serious health concerns that typically arise in late adulthood are those of cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s. Often depression can be a main contributor to failing health as increases in health issues and experiencing the death of family and friends makes one’s own mortality more apparent. Not all individuals in late adulthood suffer from these health ailments. There are numerous lifestyle factors that can contribute to illness, and can be altered to provide an individual with a healthier more active life. There are numerous simple lifestyle changes an individual can make that can assist in his or her health and wellness and also decrease some of the negative effects of aging such as healthier eating habits, exercise, and regular medical checkups. Healthier eating habits involve consuming the proper amounts of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy, and protein every day. Balanced meals and healthy snacks can increase energy and ward off potential illness and disease. Exercise is also an important factor in contributing to wellness in late adulthood as exercise increases blood flow, builds healthy heart muscle, increases lung functions, and increases mobility. Mobility is often a factor in older adults who become sedentary causing muscles to atrophy and increase the likelihood of blood clots and heart-related problems. Routing medical checkups can also promote health and wellness by monitoring current medical issues and diagnosing new health issues. This allows doctors to diagnose properly and treat illness and disease early. Ageism and stereotypes Ageism refers to prejudice against elderly individuals by the use of stereotypes. According to an article provided by Net Industries (2011), â€Å"Ageism occurs throughout society in varying degrees, in television, advertising, movies, stores, hospitals, and jobs† (p. 62). Society assumes that with the increase of age comes a decrease in faculties, which is an assumption that is not always true. Younger individuals typically hold negative stereotypes regarding elderly people (Net Industries, 2011). Often older individuals are considered to be slower, more costly, and less adaptable to change than younger individuals making tasks such as finding employment and receiving equal treatment difficult. According to an article provided by Net Industries (2011), â€Å"Studies consistently demonstrate that there is no correlation between age and job performance, despite the common stereotype that productivity declines with age. Indeed, research reveals that some intellectual functions may even improve with age† (p. 62). Often older adults are treated as children by society making assumptions of their abilities and mental functioning. Viewpoints of death and dying Death at any stage in life is personal and holds different meanings to different people. Society places a great deal of meaning on death based upon age, situation, and their personal experiences and beliefs. The viewpoints of death and dying in early childhood are limited; however, children have a basic understanding of death by the age of two through their own observations of family members (Berger, 2008). Children who are dying often fear death as they do not have a fully developed concept of dying and associate death with abandonment (Berger, 2008). At this life stage, it is important to have guidance from his or her parents to gain a better understanding of death and dying. Death and dying in adolescence is often a second thought as adolescents in this life stage place less value on life and ore often reckless and irresponsible with their lives and the lives of others. A different viewpoint of death and dying is seen in adulthood as the reality of their own mortality is acknowledged and the lives of their family members. Typically adults do not fear death because of maturity and knowledge of death. The fear and concern is for leaving unfinished business such as raising their children. Anxiety builds in adults regarding death as they come to the realization of their age and becoming closer to death as they continue to age. Adults have established a healthy respect for life and the tragedy of death. In late adulthood, older adults have the least anxiety about death and dying as they are aware of and accept their mortality and often have an established spiritual belief of an afterlife after their mortal death. Often death is associated with relief when an older adult has a serious illness or a great deal of physical pain or failing mental health. Cultural attitudes towards death and dying Attitudes toward death and dying are often different based upon cultural and religious differences. Some cultures base their feelings toward death on spiritual beliefs whereas other cultures believe in a higher power and a promised eternity. In Buddhism, death is just a process in which an individual must endure to be reborn (Berger, 2008). Buddhists do not dear dying but believe that it brings peace and enlightenment. In Hinduism, death is also a process of new life. Death involves the entire family preparing for their loved one and bear witness the individual’s descent to rebirth. In Judaism, little significance is placed on the physical body of an individual. Individuals are buried within one day after death, and the individual is mourned by family and friends together at home for one-week (Berger, 2008). Jewish individuals believe in the celebration of life more than that of death. Christianity and Islam are very similar in beliefs as death is considered merely the means of their mortal lives ending and their eternal life beginning whether it is heaven or hell. Death in Christianity and the Islamic faith can be good or bad depending on the individual’s devotion and faith in God. All individuals regardless of culture or religion hope for death without pain that comes quickly after living a long life in the company of family and friends (Burgess, 2008). Conclusion Late adulthood is a period in an individual’s life span that creates physical and emotional difficulties. Illness and disease cause serious health issues that can affect an individual’s quality of life; however, healthy eating habits, exercise, and proper medical care can assist in improving and increasing an individual’s life. Death is an inevitable part of life that everyone must face. When that time comes, death can be a peaceful release from pain or a journey to spiritual enlightenment. References Berger, K. S. (2008). The developing person through the life span. (7th ed. ). New York: Worth Publishers. Mesa Community College. (1997). The developmental psychology newsletter: Late adulthood. Retrieved from: http://www. mesacc. edu. Net Industries. (2011). Ageism – Stereotypes about age and older persons. p. 62. Retrieved from: Ageism – Stereotypes About Age And Older Persons

Our Bodies, Our Technologies Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Our Bodies, Our Technologies - Essay Example A correlation persists between the evolution of life and the technological evolution. Life evolved from the genetic material the DNA and the RNA which are prevalent in all life forms, in the similar manner as computers are the spine of the information system. As a rule of the evolution process the initial phases takes time but advances acquire the faster pace, which could be witnessed in both the forms of the evolution. As the selection of the software is individuals choice, it could be correlated with the 23000 genes present inside the body which could be switched off or on depending upon the requirement and aids in combating major diseases as well as aging process. Every disease has got something to do with the gene or its expression, understanding the mechanism of genetic expression dreaded diseases like cancer, heart attacks, neurological disorders, diabetes etc could be resolved prior to their advancing stages (The Human Machine Merger: Why We Will Spend Most of Our Time in Virt ual Reality in the Twenty-first Century; Our Bodies, Our Technologies: Ray Kurzweil). Technical knowledge paves the way to bring innovation. Rob Freitas has designed nanorobotic RBCs which could enhance the potential of an individual, Research is on the way to make computers work faster than human brain! (Our Bodies, Our Technologies: Ray Kurzweil). Considering all the technical advances which are heading to make a human an immortal being on the planet, devoid of diseases and sufferings, combating the process of aging and hence challenging age, is human species really thinking about the burden they are putting on the planet and nature? Is human race lost in the technical world that has closed the doors to think beyond the technology? Is human race able to justify the rule of nature? Being immortal and creating the world devoid of disorders with just touch of a button, is going to validate the

The Templars were certainly adept at making money even though they Essay

The Templars were certainly adept at making money even though they existed as part of the church - Essay Example Over the time, Templars amassed huge money and property, first as donations and then through their commercial dealings and political machinations. The Templars owned lands in France, Portugal, Scotland, England, Spain, Italy, Austria, Germany, Aragon and Hungary (Baignet & Leigh 1991, 43). To a great extent the position of the Church as a primary spiritual guide to the kingdoms of Europe, eventually passed on to the Templars, in practice if not in theory. The Templars who came into existence to serve the Holy See and to establish the writ of the Church in the Holy Land, in the later days emerged as a parallel power centre to the Catholic Church, which though professed allegiance to the Church, in practice did not hesitate to assiduously indulge in unscrupulous dealings and arrangements. Thus the Templars undermined the political hold and power of the Church over the Christian kingdoms of Europe. Since the times of Christ and the apostles, the true strength of the Church had been its message of love and austerity. However, Templars initiated various steps that diluted the very essence of the message of Christ. In 1153-4, the Templars in England attempted a translation of the Old Testament into the vernacular (Baignet & Leigh 1991, 44). This translation sounded like a chivalric romance, very unlike the simplicity and piousness of the original work. One could certainly conclude that Templars must have attempted many other such unknown translations, which were explicitly worldly and compromised the crux of Christian dogmas. Also, though knowing that usury was abhorrence to the Church, Templars arrogantly indulged in financial operations and transactions, hiding their rapaciousness under the garb of â€Å"semantics, euphemism and circumlocution (Baignet & Leigh 1991, 48)†. So, the biggest damage that Templars inflicted on the Catholic Church was by being the living examples of the distortion and pollution of both the Word and the Way. The lifestyle, business and politics of Templars must have definitely disheartened and discouraged the lay believers, who were earlier attracted to the sobriety and humility of the Church. No doubt, the very existence of Templars was a visible mockery of the Christian values. Both, owing to the military and temporal power of the Templars and their massive financial clout, the feudal lords and the kings and queens of Europe became more than vulnerable to their influence. The sovereigns not only relied on Templars for safety and military assistance, but also hired Templars to collect taxes. Templars in turn, exhibited such a savagery and ruthlessness in their operations that they conveniently surpassed the excesses of their political customers. One other reason, the sovereigns became a toy in the hand of Templars was because of their need to procure loans. Hence, Templars’ alliance with the Mammon, proved more effective and utilitarian than the piety and poverty of the Church. Not to mention, the Crus ades which were initiated with much religious zeal and fervor, in a way weakened the Church in the sense that from being Holy Wars, they eventually degenerated into cheap Witch hunts. The

The US Troop Presence in East Asia Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

The US Troop Presence in East Asia - Essay Example After World War II, and throughout the Cold War, the United States occupied and maintained large bases in South Korea, Japan, and the Philippines. Political realities and social sensitivity has resulted in a significant draw down of the US presence in the Eastern Asian sphere, and there have been continued objections to the remaining US forces. However, the remaining US forces serve an honourable and necessary part of the common goals that are shared by Australians and the Americans. US troops are necessary in Eastern Asia as a means to maintain stability in the region and discourage social upheavals that could threaten to disrupt trade with the dynamic economies in the area. The issue of a US troop presence in Eastern Asia has been very much in the public's eye in recent years and is a topic that has reached legitimacy in the mind of Australian voters. Anti-US feelings are gaining exposure and have seen a decline in US popularity due to, "Bush Administration policies; the view that the United States is a self proclaimed world watch dog; the war in Iraq; and U.S. foreign policies" (Vaughn (a), 2007, p.4). Still, whilst a majority of Australian voters believe that China will be Australia's biggest trading partner in the coming decade, "some 92% of Australians believe that the U.S. will be a very close or close security partner over the next decade, and some 79% still believe that the U.S. alliance under ANZUS is "very important" (37%) or "fairly important" (42%) to Australia's security (Vaughn (a), 2007, p.4). The historical mutual support that the ANZUS treaty has invoked in the past continues to be a widely popular policy, and will demand that US troops are stationed within the region. The alliance with the US and US allies in the region is built upon a common culture and common political and social goals. Analysts view Australia as a very important partner and ally that is the equivalent of a Great Britain in the Pacific (Vaughn (b), 2007, p.18). Australian foreign policy likewise favourably views U.S. presence in Asia and the Australian Defence Department recently reported that the alliance has been "the foundation of the region's strategic stability and security since World War II, and is no less relevant sixty years on" (cited in Vaughn (b), 2007, p.18). Australia has relied on the US for security, as well as trade, and there is a growing need to provide collective security in the 21st century world of globalisation. The cultural traditions and ethnicity of Australia makes it a natural partner for the West and the US. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has been a lukewarm replacement for SEATO that was abandoned in the 1970s. ASEAN has as an obj ective to "promote regional peace and stability through abiding respect for justice and the rule of law in the relationship among countries in the region and adherence to the principles of the United Nations Charter" (Overview ASEAN). However, Leong, Ho, and Ku (2005, p.166) warns that, "It still remains to be seen whether ASEAN would truly accept Australia and New Zealand into the East Asian Community". Without US troops in the region and security arrangements with the West, Australia could become isolated in the region. The post Cold War period had presented Australia with trans-national extremism and an increased probability of terror attacks.

My View of Adult Learning Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

My View of Adult Learning - Essay Example For example, I was able to learn numerous, different factors that are the driving forces behind these individuals’ drive for education achievement. Additionally, I also learned about some of the many factors that can distract or affect negatively the process of adult learning. It was clear from these course materials that adult learning is based on andragogical model of learning. This model is build upon the assumptions that adults have a need to know and learn adults also have a need to be learners who are self- directed and a need to have a self- concept that reflects that they are responsible for the decisions that they make. Therefore, adult learning programs are special as they are designed in such ways that allow them o set goals by themselves and organize their learning around the responsibilities each has as an adult. More specifically, I can relate my journey in education to the course content material of unit one. I am an adult learner who just recently went back to school, and traditionally my daily routines and responsibilities would not have fit with my education program. This is because my education would have a conflict with my responsibilities such as taking care of my family, and eventually one of the two would be neglected. However, with such programs as online education, I am able to satisfy all of my responsibilities. ... Up to now, this unit has taught me that the many challenges that we face as adult learners are as a result of some of the factors associated with adults going back to school and taking up education once more. My Current View of Adult Education Much of the view and thoughts I have on adult education currently are derived from my course content of unit two. As I went through the assigned content for unit two, I was able to learn numerous things about adult education I did not know of, and I was surprised to find out that there are numerous theories on the processes through which adults learn. Before hand, I was only familiar with the theory on adult learning by Knowles called the Andragogy theory, and with my limited knowledge I had assumed that this was the only theory through which adult learners like myself and my colleagues learned through. To my surprise, I became familiar with other adult learning theories such as the theories by such individuals like Jarvis, McClusky, and Illeri s. All these theories were in one way or the other related to the processes and styles through which I was able to learn and also related to many of my learning style methods. However, I was able to realize that my learning style methods were more related to the McClusky model or theory more than the other theories. This particular theory argues that there is always a constant need for one to strike a balance between the energy they need and the energy that is available to them. I thought this theory was more related to me because I had many facets in my life that struggled for my attention such as my children, work, friends, church, and even my

The sports industry Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The sports industry - Essay Example a sport or entertainment source, but also as an economic tool, the levels of professionalism, the industry’s profitability and income improvement levels in various nations where the sport is recognized and respected has risen tremendously. Primarily, the value of sports is a crucial topic for anyone trying to understand this industry must review. Considering a study by Deloitte, which was conducted first in 1992, and the last time it was conducted in 2013, the football industry has grown by 14 times from its initial  £170 million to its current value, estimated to be  £2.3 billion. Such growth levels indicate that this is probably one of the greatest drivers of the economy. In Europe, the football industry is one of the biggest industries with even venture capitalists investing in it. The value of the football industry has changed over a short period of time and this can be attributed to a number of features which range from exposure to increase in global interest in the sport (Sports Business Group, 2013). This growth in profits and revenues is not only accounted for by ticket sales, but also from endorsements from other companies and the invisible aspect of how much the football industry has improved other industries as well. Pay TV, for instance, is one of the industries that has greatly benefitted from football, with the increase in numbers of viewers and the development of more programs for the game. Media companies such as Super-Sport, ESPN, SKY sports and ITV digital are some firms that have reaped profits from football seasons impressively. Commercialization of the industry has also boosted its value appreciably. In 2012, the premier league was ranked as one of the highest grossing organizations in the UK. In just a mere season, the domestic rights for the broadcasting of soccer games were sold for over  £ 1 billion per year, which amounts to 18% of all domestic media rights in the UK. Secondly, the game attendance levels for the previous season were

Louise Slaughter Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Louise Slaughter - Research Paper Example The term Congress in the United States has two applications (Kura, 2001). First, Congress refers to the Senate or national bicameral legislature. Secondly, Congress refers to the House of Representatives. In the Senate, members are referred to as senators while Representatives are the members in the House of Representatives (Heath, 1999). Persons who are members of both the Senate and House of Representatives are members of congress. Representatives are also referred to as congressmen or congresswomen. The current congress is the 113th and was elected in November 2012. The House of Representatives has 435 members while the Senate has 100 members. The members of US congress are elected to represent people in fifty states. Since the congress representatives are elected, it is possible to have a Congress whose representatives have unequal racial representation. The two Congress chambers are separate. However, they both participated equally in the enactment of legislation. The congress m ust hold one joint meeting in a year to agree on the convening and adjourning dates and count the presidential votes. The ability of the Congress to enact laws is the sanction of that effects other congress actions. The discussion in this paper focuses on the congresswoman named Louise Slaughter. In the discussion, Louise Slaughter is analyzed for her key achievements, voting records, important committee assignments, and leadership positions. Current position of Louise Mclntosh Slaughter Louise was born on 14 August 1929. Today, Slaughter is the New York’s representative for 28th congressional district. She has served in this position since 1993. The political party membership is Democratic Party. Slaughter’s district of representation is found in Rochester, New York. This district partially comprises of counties of Orleans and Monroe in New York. Since 1987 to 1993, Slaughter represented New York’s 30th District. The United States Congressional elections were h eld in November of the year 2012. In these elections, Slaughter’s victory was over Maggie Brooks who had been county representative since 2004. Her representation is now in the restructured 25th District. This District is entirely found in Monroe County except for Rush, Mendon, Hamlin, Wheatland, and part of Clarkson. Slaughter has formerly been the chairperson of the House Rules Committee. Her leadership in this Committee lasted from 2007 to 2011. Other membership roles include ranking minority member as from 2011. After her reelection, Slaughter vowed to fight for issues of Medicare and Social security. She also vowed to fight for the Violence against Women Act renewal (Alaimo, 2012). In most of her career, Slaughter has spent time fighting for the safety, opportunities and health. In addition, Louise is the co-founder of the Bi-partisan Pro Choice Caucus and Co-author of violence against Women Act. Slaughter has also greatly advocated for the protection of the nationâ€⠄¢s troops by ensuring that troops have the needed armor. According to slaughter, she feels that those responsible for protecting the nation should also be protected. Louise has been considered as a true reformer. For now, Slaughter is fighting to pass the Stock Act in her efforts to clean up Washington. Through this act, Congress members will not be in a position to make money in the stock market using insider information. This move will protect million of citizens since her support will not be

Federal Subsidized Housing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3250 words

Federal Subsidized Housing - Essay Example The CHA is governed by commissioners who are appointed by the mayor. The first Executive Director of the CHA was Elizabeth Wood. Who served for 17 years. During the Wood years the CHA became immersed in perpetuating an obvious pattern of institutional racism: The federal Housing Act of 1937 in conjunction with the Chicago Public Works Administration were successful in completing four low-rise (two to four story building prior to World War II. Three of these projects were opened in 1938: Jane Adams House, on the near west side, comprising of 32 buildings which housed 1,027 families; Julia C, Lanthrop Homes on the north side housed 925 families and Trumbull Park Homes on the far south side for 426 families. These three complexes were built primarily for whites (although 2.5 per cent or 60 units were set aside for African Americans). In 1940 The CHA embarked on a pattern which would later be challenged as a social, moral and legal travesty. In 1941 the CHA completed construction of its first public housing project exclusive for African Americans and situated it in the heart of an African American (Ghetto) neighborhood. The Ida B. Wells House was considerably larger than the CHA’s previous projects, and it accommodated 1,662 families.... a myth which permeated every (white) neighborhood in Chicago. Not only did the CHA promote its promulgation on the local level, the federal government under the"Neighborhood Composition Rule", gave tacit approval for the furtherance of institutional racism, when it stipulated: that the tenants of a housing development be of the same race as the people in the area in which it was situated. (Hilliard1966) Many northerners took a special type of "white" pride in decrying the antics and overt racism of their southern brothers, while declaring that they (northern whites) were all liberals, who believed in the absolute provisions of the Declaration of Independence, The Bill of Rights and the Constitution, which provides human and civil rights for all men, regardless of their race or skin color. In his pre World War II study of the race situation in America, Gunnar Myrdal presented his findings on the heightened hypocrisy which existed in the souls and minds of most white Americans in general and in this instance of Chicagoans in particular; Another form of discrimination in the North against Negroes is in the market forHouses and apartments; whites try to keep Negroes out of white neighborhoods by Restrictive covenants. The legality of these covenants is open to dispute, but in soFar as the local courts uphold them, the discrimination is in the legal principle, not In the individual cases brought to court. (Myrdal 527)This study by Myrdal is required reading (at least passages and