Why The Courts Can Not Deem An Act Of Parliament - 2336 Words

In light of the above statement by Lord Reid, it is evident that UK courts do not have the power to strike down an act of parliament as unconstitutional due to a variety of factors. Having a political constitution in the UK the efficiency of the Government overpowers the strict separation of powers and upholds the sovereignty of parliament, leading to the courts being unable to go beyond the power of Parliament and striking down acts that are unconstitutional. Majorly unlike that of the legal constitution of the United States, who allow the courts to strike down any Act they deem unconstitutional. This essay will look at the why the courts cannot deem an act of parliament unconstitutional in comparison to that of the United States.†¦show more content†¦Parliamentary supremacy is a fundamental aspect in the UK’s unwritten constitution, whereby it can be argued that parliament has no limits to the exercise of power. Pickin v British Railways Board highlights the suprema cy of Parliament constitutionally â€Å"The idea that a court is entitled to disregard a provision in an Act of Parliament on any ground must seem strange and startling to anyone with any knowledge of the history and law of our constitution† This case shows fundamentally how the Judiciary has no powers to disregard and Act of parliament. The history and law of our constitution portrays the point that parliament is supreme; historically the judiciary’s role has never allowed them to question any parliamentary proceeding as the Bill of Rights set out in 1688. However even in modern day times the prospect of Parliamentary Sovereignty is regarded as Lord Steyn states in Regina (Jackson and others) v Attorney General â€Å"Supremacy of Parliament is still the general principle of our constitution† Showing how even up to present day, Parliamentary Sovereignty is regarded as a strong principle within our constitution. Showing how our principles within a political co nstitution, does not allow judges to overrule an act of Parliament

Mental Health and Mood Disorders

Question: Discuss about the Mental Health and Mood Disorders. Answer: Introduction Mental illness is used to describe many behavioral disorders and mental health problems which vary in duration and severity. The most common mental illness includes depression, anxiety as well as substance abuse disorders. In Australia, the Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing which began in the 1990s give evidence on the prevalence of mental illness, comorbidity, its associated disability, and the available health services for people with mental problems (MHSA, 2016). According to the National Institute of Health 2016, depression is a common and a serious disorder that causes severe symptoms which affect the way a person thinks, feel and handle day to day activities such as working, sleeping and eating. Diagnosis for depression depends on symptoms that last for more than two weeks. In this essay, depression, and related mental disorder; suicide is comprehensively discussed based on the first scenario. Mental Illness and Depression Mental illness is a common disease in Australia. Black Dog Institute (2012) indicates that every year, about 20% Australians between the ages 16 to 85 suffer from a mental illness. The three common disorders depression, anxiety as well as use of the substance of abuse a lot occur in combination. Among the 20% of people with mental illness in Australia, 11.5% have experienced one disorder while 8.5% have at least two disorders. Depression is the third highest disease burden in Australia at 13.3%. It is the leading cause of disability in Australia at 24% (Black Dog Institute, 2012). Interestingly, there has been an upward trend in prevalence of depression in Australia. This disorder affected people between the ages 45-54 years old. In an extended period study between 1998 to 2008, Goldney, Eckert, Hawthorne Taylor (2010) reported a significant rise in prevalence of depression from 6.8% to 10.3%. In this study, there was a substantial increase in males of age between 15 to 29 and between 30 to 49 years in females. However, the study did not show any significant increase among other subgroups. In this study, Goldney et al., (2010) reports that health status as the primary predictor of depression in Australia. In another study by Mitchell et al., (2011), the prevalence of all types of depression, when combined, was 24.6%, and all kinds of mood disorders were 29.0%. In this study, there was no the consistent correlates of depression were few. Also there no effects of sex, age and clinical settings in depression cases. Wood et al., (2012) reports 18.5% prevalence among patients suffering from multiple sclerosis. In the study, he indicates that anxiety fatigue and depression cluster together and are common in people with multiple sclerosis; findings which are vital for managing individuals with multiple sclerosis and in the study of the involved biological pathways. Luppa et al., (2012) also indicates the prevalence rate of depression at 4.6% to 9.3% in a study of gender and age specific study of depression in elderly. Prevalence of Suicide In addition to about thirty people attempt suicide, more than six people die from suicide in Australia every day. Though suicide is only about 1.6% of deaths in Australia, it does not contribute to the bigger percentage of deaths in particular age groups. Men are highly exposed to the risk of committing suicide, though they are less likely to seek help. Out of the suicide-related deaths in 2010, men accounted for three-quarters 76.9%. In addition to men, other categories such as indigenous Australians, transgender people, children and individuals who live in remote and rural areas have a greater risk of suicide (Black Dog Institute, 2012). According to the Bureau of Statistics 2015, the highest age-related suicide deaths among male in 2013 occurred in people with at least 85 years. In this group, 38 out of 100, 000 people died of suicide. The second group with the high rate of age-related suicide belong to the 40 to 44 year age group. In this category, 25 out of 100,000 males died of suicide. However, lowest percentages were observed in men belonging to the 15-19 age groups. Prevalence in female was highest among the 40-44 age group and lowest rate observed among 80-84 age groups. Causes of Edwards mental state and Depression Based on the issued highlighted in scenario A, it is evidently clear that Edward is suffering from depression and other mental disorders. According to the National Institute of Mental Health 2016, certain symptoms are associated with depression. These include anxiety, persistent mood, pessimism, guilt, and irritability, reduced interest in activities, decreased energy, slow speech, difficulty sleeping, weight loss, pains and thoughts of suicide. In this scenario, Edward is seen to present with most of these symptoms. Among the symptoms seen in Edward include; thoughts about suicide, unexplained weight loss of about 6kilos. He also experiences difficulty in sleeping as he wakes up early at four in the morning, reduced energy that caused inability to work in the field leading to low productivity, hopelessness, feeling of guilt because of failure to attend his father and mother's funerals. Edward is anxiously waiting to meet his younger brother and sister who live in Malta. Based on the se features, it is clear that Edward is depressed. Depression is caused by a combination of factors. These factors can be genetical, environmental and stress at school, work or home. According to Ekanayake, Ahmad Mckenzie (2012), family and relationships, socioeconomic factors, culture and migration are causes of depression. In their study, they also indicate domestic abuse, interpersonal problems and marital problems in the family as the primary cause of depression. That said, in this scenario, Edward seem to have stress emanating from many factors. To begin with, emotional distress arising from the death of his son, Thomas. Since Thomas committed suicide by poisoning himself with carbon monoxide, Edward is left wondering what might have prompted him to take his life. Due to his old age, he cannot work in the field as before, a situation which has resulted to low produces and loss of business. Poor self-esteem is a possible cause of Edwardss depression. The fact that Collins decided to move and stay in Sydney and leave his fathers farm is an indication of the ununited family. Edwards think that he, his wife and his son are socially apart. Also, anxiety might have caused the depression in Edward. Having failed to attend his parents funeral and his dire need to meet his two siblings in Malta stress him a lot thus causing the depression. One ethical issue arising from this scenario is the act of suicide by Edwardss son and thoughts about suicide by Edward himself. According to Danaher (2014), there are four ethical frameworks that relate to ethics of suicide. First is the theological framework which bases its values on the ground of religious premises. A theist believes that we are Gods creation and deciding to end our lives is ethically wrong in that it violate Gods authority over us. Secondly, the libertarian framework views the ethics of suicide based on political and moral theory. Libertarians believe that we have legitimate authority over ourselves. Therefore we have the right to end our life if we wish. The third approach is based on the consequential framework which uses the consequences of suicide to judge whether it is a permissible or a forbidden act. However, one disadvantage of this context is its association with counterintuitive conclusions. Lastly, ethics of suicide is judge based on Kantian framework. It is a consequentialist approach that focuses on our personal duties to others in line with the concept of dignity. Danaher (2014) further indicates that in dealing with Edwards case, the nurse needs to adhere to the fundamental guiding principle. Which require psychologists to require that the client supported and their safety promoted while waiting for a better assessment of the patient's situation. Psychologists must address patients autonomy in the process of delivering their assistance. The particular ethical guiding principles for psychologist handling potential suicide clients need to ensure adequate protection of consumers rights, need to maintain patients confidentiality and avoid work beyond their professional competence as per the code of ethics. Another ethical issue is the possibility of leaking the information about the patients intent to commit suicide. This action can be unethical because the people who are mentally challenged require privacy and if they learn that their details are leaked to third parties may only worsen their situation. The legal aspect of suicide in Australia is a bit different compared to other countries. According to the Australian Criminal Code Amendment Act of 2005, attempt to commit suicide or committing suicide is not an offense in South Australia. However, assisting someone to commit suicide is a serious criminal offense. There the fact that Edward thinks of committing suicide is not punishable in the law court. We note that despite Edward having such thoughts, he doesnt know how to do it. If someone gives advice to him, then it becomes a criminal offense to the adviser. There are two categories of nursing problems identified in this scenario; first, the physical problems may include neglecting personal hygiene and inability to eat or drink. The risk associated with neglect of health includes dental caries, body odor and infections, infestations, development of low self-esteem and social rejection (Dean, 2011). The risk associated with the inability to eat or drink includes dehydration, constipation, loss of weight and general weakness. In this scenario, we choose exhaustion and loss of energy as a physical problem. Exhaustion is of particular concern because if not managed timely, it can deprive body energy hence risking the client's life. Secondly, there are psychological nursing problems associated with depression are connected to Edwards personality, circumstances environment, and relationships. Specific problems in depressed patients include hopelessness, guilt, anxiety and low self-esteem (Dean, 2011). According to this scenario, Edward admits that he had thoughts of suicide. This condition is particularly a psychological problem because if not managed well, the client may end up taking his life. Nursing interventions are essential for depressed patients because it helps to prevent the condition from worsening. Suffering from depression can affect a persons diet leading to loss of energy and exhaustion. This situation can threaten a patients life if not managed early enough. Lack critical nutrients may make people tired then run down (Lill, 2015). Malnutrition problems can be solved by providing for and encouraging the client to eat enough balanced food with plenty of vegetables and fruits. Energy giving foods such as carbohydrates should be given in appropriate amounts to provide energy. Second intervention required is to allow the patient enough rest and provide counseling. Depression is related to tension, anxiety, and stress. Relaxation is the best solution for stress. Encourage the patient to listen to relaxation tapes, yoga or read some interesting literature. Let the patient decide what the best relaxation method is for them. Giving enough rest and counseling allow hel ps to reassure the patient and ensure the patient regain strength. Depressed people may take their life through suicide. Having hinted of thoughts of suicide. Edward needs to be monitored closely to ensure he is as safe as possible. To begin with, proper risk assessment needs to be carried out to understand Edwardss situation before commencing ant treatment. This risk assessment is particularly important for it helps in the diagnosis of the problem and provision of appropriate help (Lill, 2015). To solve this problem, psychological therapy will be done. Guidance and counseling can help treat the patient from bad thoughts about suicide. Also provide social support. When people experience depression, they might feel no energy to socialize. This support will prevent the patient from negative thinking which might lead to suicide. Conclusion Summing up, indeed Edward is in depressive condition which requires urgent attention. Depression being the third highest prevalent medical condition in Australia, more need to be done to reduce the occurrence of cases. Suicide in particular is a serious cause of many deaths in Australia, and Edward being in this mental state, proper risk assessment on her condition need to be done to help after him assistance. It is worth noting that family issues right from the death of his younger son, relocation of his elder son to Sydney as well as his current poor performance in business is the cause of his depressive condition. References Australian Bureau of Statistics (2015). Causes of Death, Australia, 2013: Summary of Results, 3303.0, 2013. ABS: Canberra. Black Dog Institute. (2012, October). Facts and figures about mental health and mood disorders. Retrieved August 25, 2016, from https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/docs/Factsandfiguresaboutmentalhealthandmooddisorders.pdf Criminal Code Amendment (Suicide Related Material Offences) Bill 2005 Parliament of Australia. (2005). Retrieved August 26, 2016, from https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Bills_Legislation/bd/bd0405/05bd133 Danaher, J. (2014, May). The Ethics of Suicide: A Framework.Institute for Ethics and Emerging Technologies. doi:10.1007/978-94-017-7264-8_8 Dean, E. (2011). Major study shows nursing care benefits patients with depression.Nursing Standard,25(52), 8-8. doi:10.7748/ns.25.52.8.s10 Ekanayake, S., Ahmad, F., Mckenzie, K. (2012). Qualitative cross-sectional study of the perceived causes of depression in South Asian origin women in Toronto: Table 1.BMJ Open,2(1). doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2011-000641 Lill, S. (2015). Depression in Older Adults in Primary Care: An Integrative Approach to Care.Journal of Holistic Nursing,33(3), 260-268. doi:10.1177/0898010115569350 Luppa, M., Sikorski, C., Luck, T., Ehreke, L., Konnopka, A., Wiese, B., Riedel-Heller, S. (2012). Age- and gender-specific prevalence of depression in latest-life Systematic review and meta-analysis.Journal of Affective Disorders,136(3), 212-221. doi:10.1016/j.jad.2010.11.033 Mental Health Services in Australia (MHSA). (2016). Prevalence, impact and burden. Retrieved August 25, 2016, from https://mhsa.aihw.gov.au/background/prevalance/ Mitchell, A. J., Chan, M., Bhatti, H., Halton, M., Grassi, L., Johansen, C., Meader, N. (2011). Prevalence of depression, anxiety, and adjustment disorder in oncological, haematological, and palliative-care settings: A meta-analysis of 94 interview-based studies.The Lancet Oncology,12(2), 160-174. doi:10.1016/s1470-2045(11)70002-x National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). (2016, May). Depression. Retrieved August 25, 2016, from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression/index.shtml Goldney, R. D., Eckert, K. A., Hawthorne, G., Taylor, A. W. (2010). Changes in the prevalence of major depression in an Australian community sample between 1998 and 2008.Aust NZ J Psychiatry Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry,44(10), 901-910. doi:10.3109/00048674.2010.490520 Wood, B., Mei, I. V., Ponsonby, A., Pittas, F., Quinn, S., Dwyer, T., Taylor, B. (2012). Prevalence and concurrence of anxiety, depression and fatigue over time in multiple sclerosis.Multiple Sclerosis Journal,19(2), 217-224. doi:10.1177/1352458512450351

The Legalization Of Marijuana Has Been A Long Debated Subject In Ameri Essay Example For Students

The Legalization Of Marijuana Has Been A Long Debated Subject In Ameri Essay ca since the 1970s. The pro-marijuana society in America has made several claims as to how marijuana can help cure or lessen the effect of some diseases and that by legalizing the drug; the use of pot will actually decline. The fact of the matter is that marijuana is a drug that can be placed into a similar category as cocaine or heroine. Like these other drugs, pot (marijuana) smoking carries with it serious side effects that can effect the user forever, and sometimes-even cause death. Marijuana was first cultivated in America during the colonial time period and was used as a fiber for rope and even clothing. The plant was not used for its psychoactive properties until 1910, when Mexican farmers began smuggling it across the boarder for poor black and Mexican workers in the Southern states (Abood Me 202). By the 1930s marijuana was widespread throughout the U.S., before the Federal Government in 1937 outlawed the use of it. However, marijuana use continued to spread, even with these restrictions and in 1970 the Controlled Substance Act was passed. This act basically categorized marijuana as being a harmful and addictive drug. Presently, marijuana use, especially among teenagers is on the rise once again. Pro-marijuana advocates must ask themselves the question that if marijuana is so great, why is it causing so much damage to the body? Marijuana is comprised of cured leaves and flower clusters from the hemp plant called Cannabis sativa. Cannabis sativa is known as a psychedelic drug because it creates a break from reality. The chemicals found in marijuana are actually much more harmful than chemicals found in other addicting drugs, such as those found in tobacco. The inhalation of any kind of smoke is unhealthy, whether it is in cigarettes or joints (marijuana). The particles found in the smoke of joints and cigarettes collect in the lungs and over time can cause damage. The marijuana plant has over 400 known chemicals that break down into some 4,000 when smok ed (Zweben Je 123). Only a few of these chemicals, such as THC, create the actual high that pot smokers look to for their enjoyment, but the many of the others are toxins, or poisons that have been proven to cause cancer. One such cancer-causing chemical is called a carcinogen. An average joint contains 30 monograms of carcinogen in comparison with an average cigarette, which contains only 21 monograms (Kleber 4). Carcinogen has been proven to break down a gene that controls the growth of cells and over time makes the lungs 70% more susceptible to lung cancer. The way that marijuana cigarettes are smoked- by inhaling and holding the smoke in the lungs creates an even greater risk for exposure to these poisonous chemicals. Other cases are quickly developing that show chronic marijuana users also develop mouth or larynx cancer. If such a drug can cause such devastating health problems, then why legalize it?Besides causing cancer, other long-term side effects can occur. Flu like sympto ms can occur that includes eating disorders, chronic bronchitis, and mood swings that may not dissipate for up to 18 months. There is also the psychological effect that marijuana has on the user. Many studies have shown that long time users who tried to quit could not do so, not necessarily because of a powerful withdrawal like that of crack cocaine, but because they missed the actual high that marijuana offered. The high is actually causing mental problems as well. Studies done have shown that pot smoking can cause short term memory loss, as well as creating a sort of fog in the mind of the user. More serious mental effects include depression and suicide. As one doctors journal stated: It is generally agreed that there is a progressive increase in depressed mood from abstainer to substance user and a corresponding increase in suicide attempts.(Berman 313) A final problem that marijuana poses is that it is considered a gateway drug. A gateway drug is one that leads to the use of hig her risk substances like cocaine. In a recent study, children (ages 12-17) were 266 times more likely to use cocaine after using gateway drugs then those who did not (Alaskans for a Drug Free Youth Summer). Promoting a drug that can potentially lead to the use of even worse drugs, is not the right way to go about fixing the problems of everyday America. .ue373a18858c103b67ca28d228068d1f4 , .ue373a18858c103b67ca28d228068d1f4 .postImageUrl , .ue373a18858c103b67ca28d228068d1f4 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .ue373a18858c103b67ca28d228068d1f4 , .ue373a18858c103b67ca28d228068d1f4:hover , .ue373a18858c103b67ca28d228068d1f4:visited , .ue373a18858c103b67ca28d228068d1f4:active { border:0!important; } .ue373a18858c103b67ca28d228068d1f4 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .ue373a18858c103b67ca28d228068d1f4 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .ue373a18858c103b67ca28d228068d1f4:active , .ue373a18858c103b67ca28d228068d1f4:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .ue373a18858c103b67ca28d228068d1f4 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .ue373a18858c103b67ca28d228068d1f4 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .ue373a18858c103b67ca28d228068d1f4 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .ue373a18858c103b67ca28d228068d1f4 .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .ue373a18858c103b67ca28d228068d1f4:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .ue373a18858c103b67ca28d228068d1f4 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .ue373a18858c103b67ca28d228068d1f4 .ue373a18858c103b67ca28d228068d1f4-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .ue373a18858c103b67ca28d228068d1f4:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: International Business Law, Go Essay We will write a custom essay on The Legalization Of Marijuana Has Been A Long Debated Subject In Ameri specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now Many pro-marijuana advocates are pushing for the legalization of marijuana strictly for medical purposes. They feel that through certain studies, marijuana can help improve patients with certain diseases. The idea that marijuana can do more good than harm has been proven a worthless theory. One obvious way marijuana can not be effective was explained earlier when it was stated that smoking marijuana could be harmful to the lungs as well as other parts of the body. The reality is that this is very true and was backed by William M. Bennett M.D., who is listed in the Best Doctors in America. He remarked that The idea of using smoked marijuana containing carcinogens as medicine, particularly for patients who have suppressed immune systems like those with aids, should be unthinkable. Thus, prior to considering marijuana, one must abide by the old edict, first do no harm' (Kleber 6). In looking at this from a governmental position, the FDA never complied with the theory that one can smoke a medication. The United States Court of Appeals backed the FDA in 1992, by deciding that marijuana is not a medicine (http://). Several alternatives have also been available to avoid the smoking of marijuana. Chemicals such as THC, that are said to be needed for medical purposes can be found in oral forms. Nasal sprays and suppositories are just some suggestions that anti-marijuana advocates are pushing. These alternatives allow the patient to receive the needed THC without taking in the thousands of harmful chemicals found by smoking marijuana, which would be much less harmful to the body of the patient. Overall, there is a multitude of legitimate facts, from a wide array of researchers and doctors that prove marijuana is harmful. Several questions must be answered if the legalization of marijuana is to be taken with any seriousness. What kind of marijuana would be legal and who would it pertain to? Would it only come from the government? If one says that marijuana should only be legal for a medical purpose than vehicular trauma and DUI problems could not only increase but also a medical marijuana defense could easily be used (http://). Medical users of marijuana could smoke the drug and then drive or operate some type of machinery. If an accident did occur, the user could justify the accident with a medical excuse. How will it effect a teen-age society that continues to have a no big deal attitude toward smoking pot? How can one say that marijuana smoking will decline if more and more people are using it, and more people have a laxidasical attitude toward its use? These questions ar e at the very least, difficult to answer. They prove that the American society is in no way ready to think about legalizing marijuana.

Innovation in Business Development

Innovation in Business Development Innovation refers to a new method of handling processes. An innovative business seeks to create or develop new ideas with the aim of making a niche in the market.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Innovation in Business Development specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This implies that innovation plays a very important role in the development of businesses across the globe. In any case, contemporary economies demand dynamism that can only be attained trough innovative processes. This paper explores the roles of innovation in the growth and development of a business entity. Strategic planning and creation of wealth Innovation lays the platform for strategic planning and creation of wealth in a business entity (Kindstrà ¶m, Kowalkowski, 2014). It is crucial to mention that strategic planning is central to the work of an organization. Without a strategic framework, it may not be possible to understand the position and direc tion being taken by an organization. Strategic planning is designed to prepare strategic options in order to successfully implement the strategy set by the decision maker. Different options are available to the decision-maker and the option selected is sent to different managers in order to be translated into business terms through operational planning. The manner in which organizations are managed in the contemporary works is rapidly changing. The increasing complexity of the environment requires decision makers to have proper anticipation. New technologies and management methods ought to be adapted. Through innovation, corporate governance spurred by the systemic and effective leadership can facilitate the growth if an organization. Thus, governance is no longer attached to the only goals of short-term profitability, but is fully consistent with the overall concept of sustainable development. An innovative business should embrace performance management and steering in order to imp lement a strategic planning process. Innovation assists in setting the strategic vision of a business and constantly adapts then overall strategic indicators to achieve the strategic objective.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More In the absence of innovation, strategic planning can be a rigid tool that seeks to foresee growth since it may leave the decision maker surprised by the unexpected occurrences. A strategic planning process that is too rigid may always lead to strategic break because it probably lacks an innovative idea. Undeniably, an innovative strategic planning has its virtues in the planning of business activities and designing growth agenda of an organization for a desirable future. The objectives set for the future cannot be easily attained if innovation is absent. An innovative process of strategic planning is an indispensable tool for the decision-make r in an organization. It concerns the determination of the overall objectives of the company and the long-term commitment. It is prudent to note that the operational planning refers to the allocation of resources for each function of an organization. Any planning process is formalized using methodologies that emphasize efficient decision-making that eventually contributes to the gradual and successful construction of a business plan. When innovation is put into consideration during strategic planning, it can be helpful in understanding the purpose and long-term strategic goals of a business unit. An innovative strategic planning has yet another benefit. It plays a mobilizing and stimulating role. Among its key factors of success is the necessary adhesion of managers (Broring Herzog, 2008). Hence, it is essential that they are involved in developing the plan and adhere to its letter and spirit. Competitive advantage Innovation is also instrumental in boosting the competitive advanta ge of a firm. Theorized by Michael Porter in 1985 in an eponymous book, competitive advantage is the element that fundamentally differentiates the offer of a company relative to its competitors, and therefore constitutes its power of differentiation (McAdam, Reid Mitchell, 2010). The strategy implemented by a company must contribute to the creation and the sustainability of this advantage. Besides, an absolute advantage gives the company a dominant position which it may be tempted to abuse within the limits of the law. Five forces were defined by the author in 1979 and are a clear depiction of how innovation can be beneficial to an organization (Rae, 2007).Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Innovation in Business Development specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More While the concept of Porter Five Forces initially targeted the growth factors of an organisation, it is also used extensively to characterize the advantage of a g eographic area of ​​a country or an individual. The sustainability of competitive advantage is related to the establishment of barriers that are similar to distinctive competencies. Favorable historical conditions, causal ambiguity, the quality of relationships within an organization serve to engender heterogeneity of skills within the business sector and maintains the sustainability of competitive advantage (Broring Herzog, 2008). Comparative advantage and competitive advantage should not be misconstrued when it comes to the roles and benefits of innovation in a business. Generally, a competitive advantage that has been curved out of an innovative mind generates a lot of value in a business. Innovation is key to a favourable sales performance when marketing goods and services. This argument is particularly true when competitive advantage results from a differentiation strategy. For example, in the case of the so-called top differentiation, price / quality ratio incre ases due to an increase in the quality perceived as more than proportional to the corresponding increase of price. The comparative advantage is often the result of a strategic and innovative differentiation during the process of generating value (Belenzon Berkovitz 2010, p.520). The latter allows a differentiation strategy and the buying value to increase. In most cases, comparative advantage does not lead to a differentiation of the offer if management teams fail to devise innovative measures towards the same process. Innovation enhances business focus An innovative business is usually motivated to remain on track irrespective of the severe and difficult times. Hence, it is necessary for a business entity to continually invest in innovation and communication in order to withstand hard or challenging economic times. When the 2007/2008 recession struck, several businesses were negatively affected by the economic downturn. However, businesses that were innovative enough withstood the rough times and remained on the right course of growth and development.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Innovation and assessing the business situation In times of crisis, the internal environment of the company becomes a sensitive issue since trust in management is crucial. Competitors are unequally equipped to face the challenges especially as the market changes and new trends emerge. Brands and their priorities change as well (Cassia, De Massis Pizzurno 2012, p. 231). However, innovation plays a major role of reinventing business skills and tactics. For instance, communication should be changed accordingly in order to match the growth prospects of a business. In tense period, consistent messaging is crucial. If corrections are not revolutionary in practice, customers’ expectations may not be met as anticipated. By optimizing communication media and centralizing management, significant annual savings and increased efficiency can be attained with a lot of ease (Maslova, 2013). Innovation and brand management The brand image of a business organization is a vital marketing fact or that cannot be ignored by contemporary firms. This implies that branding should be done in an innovative manner. A well innovated brand increases the net value of a business. Moreover, innovation enhances close positioning between brands of the same portfolio. There are also a number of innovative attributes that strengthen and promote the brand of a business organisation (Mullins, 2010). Business managers can make the right decisions on the maintenance of a brand or changing its position in the market if dynamic innovation is embraced all the time. Knowledge of the value placed by the customers to the brand is a vital lever to make the right choices. This explains why innovation can be used to streamline business portfolio at any given time during the lifetime of its operations (Rajala, Westerlund Mà ¶ller, 2012). Innovation promotes effective marketing Optimizing the web presence of a business is one of the innovative marketing tools that contemporary organisations employ. To ugh times are an opportunity to review the policy of Internet and virtual communication. Internet is a major tool of accessing to information. In addition, Internet tools have the advantage of flexibility, segmentation or personalization in real time with techniques that are becoming increasingly dynamic (Doppelt, 2010). Markets continually expect and fear an economic slowdown. However, not all companies suffer as a result of poor economic performance (Holtzman, 2008). Managers who see an opportunity and vividly understand how to capitalise on their brand often succeed in forging a vibrant competitive both in the medium and long term. However, establishing a web presence with lasting impact requires an innovative mind. One of the benefits of an innovative online presence is the reduction of exorbitant promotion and high advertising costs. Lack of innovation can lead to millions of investment in marketing (Mieres, Snchez Vijande, 2012). In the laws of competition and saturation of m arkets, business managers may sometimes be compelled to work with the available resources. Since return on investment is not always an obvious occurrence, it is the responsibility of business managers to come up with measures that can cushion their organisations against unprecedented losses (Campbell, Edgar Stonehouse, 2011). Rigorous but effective marketing campaigns designed from innovation can minimise the chances of financial loss on investments. Innovation defines the strategy of a firm It is obviously not possible to achieve objectives without a set strategy. Innovation is a precursor to strategy. Having a strategy in place assists in identifying essential actions that can boost turnover and retain key customers. Focusing on the customer base of a business may be more profitable than seeking new customers (Lin 2008, p.69). Hence, customers who are loyal to a firm should be retained as much as possible. A business process that is innovative enough can attract and retain custom ers. For example, innovation should be used by managers to meet the changing tastes and preferences of customers. Through innovation, managers are in a vantage position to: Focus on current customers. Optimize and circumscribe the services already offered to their best satisfaction. Extend the benefits offered to customers since they are able to optimize sales from repeat customers Focus on the media and be able to reach their targets Adopt a concise and effective operational marketing (Kindstrà ¶m Kowalkowski 2014, p.98) It is always better to build a business strategy around what will work best after the elements of innovation have been applied to the letter. Innovation cab also be instrumental in shaping the relationship between customers and a business enterprise when the needs of the former are met as per the expectations. When relating with customers, direct communication should be chosen and adopted. Direct communication allows a business entity to meet the needs of custo mers in order to satisfy them (Belenzon Berkovitz 2010, p.519). Innovation also ensures a thorough and effective control of marketing activities in a firm. Control may not necessarily entail checking if the costs of a given transaction are reasonable. It also involves evaluating actions to determine which ones are not worth the process so that they can be separated from those that are most effective (Lasserre, 2012). In conclusion, innovation and positive business development cannot be separated from each other. New ideas are required all the time for business growth. Owing to strong competition in the modern markets, businesses are being compelled to devise their development chains on a regular basis. As a matter of fact, the natural laws and factors that affect demand and supply cannot permit static strategies. Dynamic business ideas are fundamental. This calls for innovation throughout the lifetime of a business organisation. Furthermore, customers’ tastes and preferences are always changing. Unless a business unit remains focussed on these needs through innovation, return on investment cannot be guaranteed. References Belenzon, S. Berkovitz, T. 2010, Innovation in Business Groups, Management Science, vol. 56, no. 3, pp. 519-535. Broring, S. Herzog, P. 2008, Organising new business development: open innovation at Degussa, European Journal of Innovation Management, vol. 11, no. 3, pp. 330-348. Campbell, D., Edgar, D. Stonehouse, G 2011, Business Strategy: An Introduction, Palgrave Macmillan, Basingstoke. Cassia, L., De Massis, A. Pizzurno, E. 2012, Strategic innovation and new product development in family firms, International Journal of Entrepreneurial Behaviour Research, vol. 18, no. 2, pp. 198-232. Doppelt, B 2010, Leading change toward sustainability: a change-management guide for business, government and civil society, Greenleaf E-book, Sheffield. Holtzman, Y. 2008, Innovation in research and development: tool of strategic growth, The Journ al of Management Development, vol. 27, no. 10, pp. 1037-1052. Kindstrà ¶m, D. Kowalkowski, C. 2014, Service innovation in product-centric firms: a multidimensional business model perspective, The Journal of Business Industrial Marketing, vol. 29, no. 2, pp. 96-111. Lasserre, P 2012, Global Strategic Management 3rd ed, Palgrave Macmillan, Basingstoke. Lin, H. 2008, Empirically testing innovation characteristics and organizational learning capabilities in e-business implementation success, Internet Research, vol. 18, no. 1, pp. 60-78. Maslova, N.V. 2013, Impact of Risk on Entrepreneurial Activity in the Small Innovation Business. Varazdin Development and Entrepreneurship Agency, p. 68. McAdam, R., Reid, R. Mitchell, N. 2010, Longitudinal development of innovation implementation in family-based SMEs, International Journal of Entrepreneurial Behaviour Research, vol. 16, no. 5, pp. 437-456. Mieres, C.G., Snchez, J..L. Vijande, M.L.S. 2012, Internal Marketing, Innovation and Perform ance in Business Services Firms: The Role of Organizational Unlearning, International Journal of Management, vol. 29, no. 4, pp. 403-429. Mullins, L 2010, Management Organisational Behaviour, 9th ed., Pearson Education, Harlow. Rae, D 2007, Entrepreneurship From Opportunity To Action, Palgrave Macmillan, Basingstoke. Rajala, R., Westerlund, M. Mà ¶ller, K. 2012, Strategic flexibility in open innovation designing business models for open source software, European Journal of Marketing, vol. 46, no. 10, pp. 1368-1388.

An Evaluation of Human Productivity Using Computer and Internet

Both technology and Computers are more than ever present in our daily routines helping us achieve our objectives in a faster, secure and more professional way. The aim of this report is to evaluate whether Computers and Internet make people more productive. According to the information gathered, it turns out that in most cases they do in fact improve the overall productivity of people. It†s amazing how many new communications discoveries have improved the way people work, behave and conduct their lives. The term productive can be explained as â€Å"Yielding favorable or useful results; constructive. Or involved in the creation of goods and services to produce wealthy or value†. 1 Let me start by providing some of the new technological terms that have been changing the lifestyle of many people. Internet, or Information Super Highway, is aimed to improve accesses to information and corporate resources. â€Å"This communication will allow people to move faster, control communications costs, and overcome distance. It can also make your people more productive, empowering them with new tools to help meet business objectives.†2 Thanks to the Internet, people are more than ever able to share their information, thoughts and ideas faster. Another technology being used nowadays is called telecommuting. A simple explanation is that employees can now work from home, without having to go to their offices. According to many surveys, the number of people whom will adopt this working method will reach 45 millions people in the United States by the Year 2000. â€Å"Telecommuting provides me with a lot of flexibility†Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ â€Å"And it allows me to balance my work load with my personal life. I feel that I’m definitely more productive.†3 This can only be accomplished by the lower price of hardware and software available in the market today. In addition, with lower-cost high-tech home office equipment available, the approach saves employers money on office space and overhead. This is only the tip of the iceberg, compared to the endless ways of how the use of Computers integrated with an Internet connection can make people more productive. Furthermore, lower software prices together with very well designed computer interfaces can also increase the productivity of workers. I can certainly say that well-designed user interface helps me better accomplish my daily tasks at work. Why? One of the major changes in computer technology has been the development of icons instead of command driven interfaces. According to the use of Human-Computer Interaction Studies, â€Å"only 5% to 20% of user interactions typically involve help, but although this reflects a small percentage in terms of data collection it can be very substantial one in terms of effort and frustration!†4 â€Å"GUI (Graphical User Interface) also provides interface options not available in character mode. The chance that they’re all irrelevant is slight; some will let you make people more productive.†5 An image is easier to be recognized by humans; thus well-designed software facilitates the tasks included in performing your job. This method yields constructive results, which is one of the definitions for productivity. In addition to that, many changes have been made in the way in which people connect themselves. The terminology LAN (Local Area Network) and WAN (Wide Area Network) are the methods used for people to connect in an office, within their houses or with friends around the world. Network Structure is related to the people working under the same building but not in the same area. The connections between different floors within a company can be achieved by using LANs. By means of LANs and WANs, people can contact their co-workers within the same building or the other side of the world by only sending them an e-mail message. Not only does this kind of information technology give people the ability to do their jobs more effectively, but also allows them to respond faster, yielding more productivity. â€Å"So, for instance, if your company has internal web sites in London, Singapore, Seattle, and New York, someone with a web browser could retrieve information from any of those sites with equal ease.†6 Again, this technique produces, in my opinion, favorable results not only for the user but also for the company. The aim is to make people more productive, to reduce cost and provide the best quality possible. To achieve this stage, such tools are necessary today. Not only e-mail messages make things simpler but also improve the speed in which people received/send their answers. A valid example where a user needs faster help is when a computer problem arises or you need to find out the next flight to â€Å"Spain†. Instead of calling the Telephone Company and asking for the telephone number of the carrier, one can just check the Internet for a fast, reliable information. Another example is when you need to fix your computer. You need that information as fast as you can get it. Nowadays, the use of on-line help has been proven a true value. Problems with printers, files and computers bugs can arise at any time. On-line help can easily provide that information for you or your company faster than spending time finding the number to call to customer service for help. Less time to fix the problem means more time to be productive. This example explains the ability to generate services, another explanation of productivity. Much has been said about the Internet and computers. But can computers without the Internet increase people†s productivity? I strongly believe that computers have increased the speed in which we accomplish our activities. According to many studies, my assumption is not always correct. A report states that †¦ â€Å"Information processing continues to be the principal task undertaken by America’s work force. Over half the labor force is employed in information-handling activities. Overall productivity growth appears to have slowed significantly since the early 1970s and measured productivity growth has fallen especially sharply in the service sectors†¦Ã¢â‚¬ 7 But it also states that computers helped people to be more confident and therefore to feel more comfortable making decisions on their own. Computers are able to provide people with resources and material to facilitate their decision-making. They are becoming user-friendly enough for all to be able to use. This is one of the main reasons why the hi-tech companies today are facing such a state of grace, with outrageous revenues and endless room for new development of products. Many others believe that what is happening now is just the beginning and that we are entering in a new era as described by Peter Schwartz. He states that†¦ We are watching the beginnings of a global economic boom on a scale never experienced before. We have entered a period of sustained growth that could eventually double the world’s economy every dozen years and bring increasing prosperity†¦Ã¢â‚¬ 8 With all this new technology emerging is not difficult to agree that much more is yet to come. If all the new technology will make tasks easier, improve quality and increase productivity, let this technology be part of the world and accessible by people. As stated before, computers are becoming a very important piece of equipment in our lives. Much can be done with computers. They are only tools that need to be driven by a smart, intelligent individual to generate the best outputs possible. An Evaluation of Human Productivity Using Computer and Internet Both technology and Computers are more than ever present in our daily routines helping us achieve our objectives in a faster, secure and more professional way. The aim of this report is to evaluate whether Computers and Internet make people more productive. According to the information gathered, it turns out that in most cases they do in fact improve the overall productivity of people. It†s amazing how many new communications discoveries have improved the way people work, behave and conduct their lives. The term productive can be explained as â€Å"Yielding favorable or useful results; constructive. Or involved in the creation of goods and services to produce wealthy or value†. 1 Let me start by providing some of the new technological terms that have been changing the lifestyle of many people. Internet, or Information Super Highway, is aimed to improve accesses to information and corporate resources. â€Å"This communication will allow people to move faster, control communications costs, and overcome distance. It can also make your people more productive, empowering them with new tools to help meet business objectives.†2 Thanks to the Internet, people are more than ever able to share their information, thoughts and ideas faster. Another technology being used nowadays is called telecommuting. A simple explanation is that employees can now work from home, without having to go to their offices. According to many surveys, the number of people whom will adopt this working method will reach 45 millions people in the United States by the Year 2000. â€Å"Telecommuting provides me with a lot of flexibility†Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ â€Å"And it allows me to balance my work load with my personal life. I feel that I’m definitely more productive.†3 This can only be accomplished by the lower price of hardware and software available in the market today. In addition, with lower-cost high-tech home office equipment available, the approach saves employers money on office space and overhead. This is only the tip of the iceberg, compared to the endless ways of how the use of Computers integrated with an Internet connection can make people more productive. Furthermore, lower software prices together with very well designed computer interfaces can also increase the productivity of workers. I can certainly say that well-designed user interface helps me better accomplish my daily tasks at work. Why? One of the major changes in computer technology has been the development of icons instead of command driven interfaces. According to the use of Human-Computer Interaction Studies, â€Å"only 5% to 20% of user interactions typically involve help, but although this reflects a small percentage in terms of data collection it can be very substantial one in terms of effort and frustration!†4 â€Å"GUI (Graphical User Interface) also provides interface options not available in character mode. The chance that they’re all irrelevant is slight; some will let you make people more productive.†5 An image is easier to be recognized by humans; thus well-designed software facilitates the tasks included in performing your job. This method yields constructive results, which is one of the definitions for productivity. In addition to that, many changes have been made in the way in which people connect themselves. The terminology LAN (Local Area Network) and WAN (Wide Area Network) are the methods used for people to connect in an office, within their houses or with friends around the world. Network Structure is related to the people working under the same building but not in the same area. The connections between different floors within a company can be achieved by using LANs. By means of LANs and WANs, people can contact their co-workers within the same building or the other side of the world by only sending them an e-mail message. Not only does this kind of information technology give people the ability to do their jobs more effectively, but also allows them to respond faster, yielding more productivity. â€Å"So, for instance, if your company has internal web sites in London, Singapore, Seattle, and New York, someone with a web browser could retrieve information from any of those sites with equal ease.†6 Again, this technique produces, in my opinion, favorable results not only for the user but also for the company. The aim is to make people more productive, to reduce cost and provide the best quality possible. To achieve this stage, such tools are necessary today. Not only e-mail messages make things simpler but also improve the speed in which people received/send their answers. A valid example where a user needs faster help is when a computer problem arises or you need to find out the next flight to â€Å"Spain†. Instead of calling the Telephone Company and asking for the telephone number of the carrier, one can just check the Internet for a fast, reliable information. Another example is when you need to fix your computer. You need that information as fast as you can get it. Nowadays, the use of on-line help has been proven a true value. Problems with printers, files and computers bugs can arise at any time. On-line help can easily provide that information for you or your company faster than spending time finding the number to call to customer service for help. Less time to fix the problem means more time to be productive. This example explains the ability to generate services, another explanation of productivity. Much has been said about the Internet and computers. But can computers without the Internet increase people†s productivity? I strongly believe that computers have increased the speed in which we accomplish our activities. According to many studies, my assumption is not always correct. A report states that †¦ â€Å"Information processing continues to be the principal task undertaken by America’s work force. Over half the labor force is employed in information-handling activities. Overall productivity growth appears to have slowed significantly since the early 1970s and measured productivity growth has fallen especially sharply in the service sectors†¦Ã¢â‚¬ 7 But it also states that computers helped people to be more confident and therefore to feel more comfortable making decisions on their own. Computers are able to provide people with resources and material to facilitate their decision-making. They are becoming user-friendly enough for all to be able to use. This is one of the main reasons why the hi-tech companies today are facing such a state of grace, with outrageous revenues and endless room for new development of products. Many others believe that what is happening now is just the beginning and that we are entering in a new era as described by Peter Schwartz. He states that†¦ We are watching the beginnings of a global economic boom on a scale never experienced before. We have entered a period of sustained growth that could eventually double the world’s economy every dozen years and bring increasing prosperity†¦Ã¢â‚¬ 8 With all this new technology emerging is not difficult to agree that much more is yet to come. If all the new technology will make tasks easier, improve quality and increase productivity, let this technology be part of the world and accessible by people. As stated before, computers are becoming a very important piece of equipment in our lives. Much can be done with computers. They are only tools that need to be driven by a smart, intelligent individual to generate the best outputs possible.

Gender Roles and its Effect Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Gender Roles and its Effect - Essay Example The gender roles as defined by society therefore fail to pay attention to such groups who identify themselves as intersexual and transgender. Intersexual are individuals having male/female anatomical characteristics that deviate from the normal while transgender are those that identify with or express their gender identity through a gender that does not correspond to the sex at birth. In a society where a lot focus is placed on this gender binary, these individuals with characteristics that do not neatly fit the clear-cut male/female dichotomy face similar problems as socially constructed gender roles fail to accommodate them. Perceptions and judgments people hold about others are generally informed by social norms, which consequently leads to them gravitating to individuals that are least hostile to a society’s norms. To perceive and understand reality, people rely on senses, intellect and generally, held social constructs which makes them able to label certain objects and co ncepts. For example, a man is differentiated from a woman according to gender roles and behaviors that have been assigned to genders and are expected of them. Individuals who posses’ characteristics and behaviors regarded as ‘masculine’ by the society are identified as man, and vice versa. There is a complexity when individuals who do not identify themselves within the constraints of this gender binary fail to fit into the male/female duality. In her article, Judith Butler explains that through intelligibility, humans are able to recognize other humans based on â€Å"normal† human social and physical characteristics that are defined by the society. ... at a definable gender is necessary for understanding someone to be human, people hold dominant gender perceptions, which dictate that intersexed persons must conform to either male or female gender roles. Butler rather subverts gender roles, as she asserts that â€Å"justice is not only or exclusively a matter of how persons are treated or how societies are constituted. It also concerns consequential decisions about what a person is, and what social norms must be honored and expressed for ‘personhood’ to become allocated† (Butler, 58). She goes out of the norm to define justice not in terms of law but as the capacity to overlook the social norms that define an individual’s self-worth. According to her, justice is defined by the decisions held by a particular society in defining what it considers ‘human’. These include the accepted appearance, characteristics and behaviors of an individual. Individuals who portray characteristics and behaviors t hat deviate from what the society considers as the ‘normal’, their identity is questioned. A quandary arises since perceptions held by a society are not flexible to change for accommodation of such individuals, rather it is expected of the individuals to readjust and conform to the predefined gender roles. Gender roles are acquired through socialization whereby a society trains individuals to conform and practice certain values and behaviors. Judith Lorber states that, â€Å"gender construction start with assignment to a sex category on the basis of what the genitalia look like at birth†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦..a sex category becomes a gender status through naming dress and the use of other gender markers† when a child is born as sex is assigned to the child depending on the anatomical characteristics in particular the sex organs. As

Distinct varieties of masculinity Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Distinct varieties of masculinity - Essay Example ne, by concurring or differing with different scholars; the conclusion, entailing a summery outline of the main points discussed and a stand on the things discussed and how masculinity manifest. In gender studies, feminist theories concern the discrimination of women by men because of womanhood feminists opine that men suit themselves by controlling sex; women get denied personal choice and exploited on labor issues. The feminists believe that the discrimination curtails women rights and seek to see the situation changed. (Piper 2009) Masculinity refers to masculine which denote something related to a male who include men and boys. (Piper 2011) defines masculinity as an expression to serve and not to be served expressing a sacrifice for the woman, which requires giving direction and having a final say. While looking at the distinct values of masculinity arises from the comparison of feminist and masculinity where feminist seek for equality between men and women, but some things constitute for womanhood and others manhood. The essay below discusses the comparison of the two in regard to distinct variety of masculinity. Distinct varieties of masculinity To begin with thoughts and experiences of men, they help in understanding gender in terms of the masculine variables, as opposed to feminist. (Rotundo, p. 106) argues that women beauty lured men from their known pleasure and secure culture to following women. Therefore, opining that gender gets socially construed with masculine thoughts and behaviors arising from social and cultural processes. The scholar opines that the new complex culture, give rise to the conception of self made manhood. (Rotundo, p. 80 ) Explains the boy’s culture, which prepared boys, for rough and competitive world of politics and business, also the youth culture characterized by debating clubs, where they learned new skills and how to compete in socially acceptable ways. Similarly, (Rotundo, p 86) expresses the idea of masculinity by