DreiserS Sister Carrie Essays - Fiction, Literature, Carrie

Dreiser'S ?Sister Carrie? I think it is very difficult to define the exact character of Dreiser's ?Sister Carrie?, and his original intention. I would say, ?as many eyes, so many opinions?, so no wonder there are different approaches and interpretations towards the novel which is influenced not just by the reader's reading or personal experience, but also by their particular philosophy of life as well as knowledge about the historical background. ?Sister Carrie? can be read as a novel of desire, seduction, or the critique of capitalism and consumerism. It's definitely not the plot or characters which are dominant elements of it. The taste and the literary value of Dreiser's novel is shaped and created by its setting and the author's tone. Chicago and New York have almost as organic and important role in the novel as the characters. They do not just form the simple environment for the novel, but they influence its character and a very strong impression. Chicago's character is kind of more ?positive?, it is a city of promise, luck, rise (Carrie). We can say that in Chicago, Hurtswood means something. New York ?s character is different. It's a city of lies, fall, impersonal isolation of ?walled city where surviving is much more difficult than in Chicago. In New York, Hurstwood means nothing. The setting creates different expectations to people. During the reading of ?Sister Carrie?, I was interested in searching and revealing the different kinds of desire. Generally we can say that Dreiser deals with the desire of wealth, social status, material things which are represented by money. Within this generalization, we can find and identify many other faces and forms of lust and longing. Carrie, as an ambitious and strong woman embodies the social values of the consumer culture. All she longs for is a material wealth, which represents power. She can be seen as a symbol of money. But Carrie lives in a world of prices. Her labor costs $4.50; board $4 a week; car fare $.60; cheap lunch $.10; etc. She imitates everything perfectly and that's why she is becoming what people want her to become. Her desires come from other people's desires. It is exactly Drouet, who introduces her to the world of wealth, to materialism. He gives her money, flat even ?name when she enters the world of theater. She plays her role according to Drouet's desires ? once acts as his mistress or ?wife?. She plays a kind of role for him and by imitating whatever the ?drumm er? desires in women, she becomes merely a reflection of ?masculine? desire. It seems to me that she is never allowed to express any desire of her own ? except for her desire for consumption (admiring and buying clothes). I think in her relationship with other people, she feels bigger pleasure fro being desired than for feeling desire of her own. The question is wheter Dreiser's attitude towards women is negative or positive? Are his women just objects or active characters? Or does Dreiser reinforce the conventional belief that the essence of a woman is just a performance of a role? I think we can also talk about a kind of ?prostitution? as for the female characters, namely Carrie and Julia. Carrie sells herself for $20, and she is paid far more for her body than she is for her labor. Julia also demands money which makes her marriage also as a form of prostitution. Is sex in this world, consumption society, a woman's most marketable product? Do these women have or even can they have their own faces? Hurstwood's desire is to possess, to possess a quiet and peaceful life with exciting ?episodes?. He views marriage as a contract that gives him a right to control both women without questions. He thinks he has the absolute power to make decisions. Does Dreiser want to stress that power is a natural and singular masculine right? Dreiser's attitude towards his characters is pretty confusing. He tries to manipulate his readers and throughout the novel, he makes comments judgements on the characters and their actions. Definitely, he feels more sympathy towards his male characters. His opinion on women is not ?pleasant?, he is putting them to a position of creatures who are

Fiduciary Duty Essays - Loans, Fiduciary, Mortgage Loan, Creditor

Fiduciary Duty Essays - Loans, Fiduciary, Mortgage Loan, Creditor Fiduciary Duty A fiduciary relationship is defined as a relationship in which one person is under a duty to act for the benefit of another on matters within the scope of the relationship. A fiduciary is defined as a person who is required to act for the benefit of another person on all matters within the scope of their relationship. In the seminal case Garrett v. Bankwest, Inc., the Supreme Court of South Dakota held that a fiduciary relationship exists between a lender and a borrower only if, (1) the borrower reposes faith, confidence, and trust in the lender, (2) the borrower is in a position of inequality, dependence, weakness, or lack of knowledge, and (3) the lender exercises dominion, control, or influence over the borrower?s affairs. All three of the elements must exist in order to establish a fiduciary duty between a lender and a borrower. The court also held that the relationship between a lender and borrower is generally viewed as a debtor-creditor relationship which imposes no special or fiduciary duties on a bank. The courts have generally ruled that when a fiduciary duty does exist, it is because the relationship between the lender and the borrower goes beyond typical contractual agreements. The majority of cases in Alabama show that the courts hold that lenders do not owe a borrower a fiduciary duty out of a basic creditor-debtor relationship. In Lee v. United Fed. Sav. The buyers applied for and received a loan from the United Federal Savings and Loan Association to purchase a house. After purchasing the house, the buyers found several structural problems and went to United Federal concerning them. United Federal referred the buyers to the firm that had inspected the house, and they then learned that the inspection report written prior to the purchase had identified the structural issues. The buyers filed suit against United Federal and others claiming that they had established ?a confidential relationship, or special circumstances between the parties, under which the law imposed a duty on United Federal to disclose all material information it possessed about the condition of the house.? The court ruled that that just because a financial institution lends money for the purchase of a house, it does not create a confidential relationship which imposes a duty to disclose facts at their disposal (even if they have knowle dge of defects in the house). The court stated that, ?We decline to recognize any such duty between United Federal and the Lees (the buyers) under the facts presented, which indicate to us an arm?s length transaction. Absent a confidential relationship, no duty to disclose exists The court determined that only a debtor-creditor relationship existed and the circumstances do not create a confidential relationship. Therefore, the lender owed no fiduciary duty to the borrower. In McIntyre Electric Serv., Inc. v. SouthTrust Bank of Mobile, McIntyre Electric filed suit against SouthTrust Bank after the bank cancelled the company?s credit and demanded payment on all outstanding loans. McIntyre Electric had conducted business and borrowed money from SouthTrust for eight to nine years prior to filing suit. In 1980 and 1981 the company experienced financial difficulties, was extended credit by SouthTrust and was assured that the bank would ?stand behind McIntyre financially in order that McIntyre Electric might reach financial stability.? McIntyre had contemplated going out of business but had decided to continue operating after receiving the commitment from SouthTrust. In their argument to the court, McIntyre asserted that those circumstances created a fiduciary relationship with SouthTrust. The court ruled that only a debtor-creditor relationship existed and that SouthTrust had no control or influence over McIntyre?s business except as a creditor. In thi s case, even though the lender had pledged to help the borrower remain in business, a relationship establishing fiduciary duty did not exist. Another case which addresses fiduciary duty is Ex parte Ford Motor Credit Co. In this case, the buyer of an automobile filed suit against the automobile dealership and the credit company when he learned of the existence of a commission on his loan between the two. The buyer

Wireless fan (high level design) report Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Wireless fan (high level design) report - Essay Example This document, once it is approved, serves as the basis for: The scope of this project is to architect, design and create Wireless fan. The fan has four switches one of them is turn on/off (A), and the others which are (B,C,D) to change the speed levels of the fan. So I have: The wireless has an exposed antenna. This antenna serves the purpose of boosting transmission of the trigger towards movement of the fan. The components would be light and not jammed because there is meager use of connecting wires. It is vital to note that the switches will possess an indirect link to the decoder. This is to enable the usability of switches. In addition, the switches will possess an angle of 90 degrees to the motor. This is to enable the compatibility of the switches to the motor fan. It is vital to note of the idea that the wireless fan system possesses two core components. These two components have more than a functional separation. The core parts possess a physical and functional separation between the sending and receiving components. This has a first antenna and a second antenna that link to transmit signals between the same. The decoder is segregated to send and receive signals through the system of antennae. The antennae have a relationship between the two links in a sense that the two signals shift between entities. Therefore, the decoder connects to the motor that rotates to trigger the movement of the blades. The system has four switches that connect to the four sections of the decoder. The decoder connects to the antenna and the LDE. In this sense, the antenna sends a signal to the receiving antenna. The antenna transmits a signal that triggers three levels of the decoder. The decoder, thus, transmits a signal to the motor that

Literature Review on IQ Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Literature Review on IQ - Essay Example In Stephen Ceci’s IQ to the Test. Psychology today, he explains that the history of IQ testing first started technically in 1905 by Alfred Binet and later it evolved into different methods. Now over 100 years old, IQ testing is now one of the primary tools that are used for identifying children who have mental retardation and also learning disabilities. IQ testing has also helped many governments, companies, and organizations all over the world today place their new recruits in positions which suit their skills and abilities (Ceci 11). Malcolm Gladwell, in his book Outliers, weighs in on nature versus nurture debate and tries to argue that all the other things i.e. our cultural legacy, our parents, our time of birth and where we come from help to shape our success. The book deals with the societal and cultural forces which bring about opportunistic individuals. By using a series of case studies, Gladwell argues that most people believe in the myth that successful individuals a re self made but instead, he says that they are always the beneficiaries of extraordinary opportunities, cultural legacies and hidden advantages which makes them able to learn and work hard in ways that others cannot. He defines an outlier as somebody out of the ordinary i.e. one who does not fit into our ordinary understanding of achievement (Gladwell 16). Gladwell tells us that once a person reaches a certain IQ, then he is likely to be successful just like somebody with a much higher IQ score. It turns out from his argument that IQ is a minor gauge of success since most successful people usually have an IQ that is above average but IQ alone cannot predict success. There are other factors such as creativity that may come into play. Gladwell shows this using several examples like a creative test that is given to two children and it occurred that the child who scored high marks on an IQ test was in fact much less creative than the other child i.e. the child with a high IQ gave corre ct answers but they didn’t have the glimmer of creativity that the other child provided in his answers (Gladwell 84). This is to say that IQ is just one small piece of the solutions that make someone to succeed and that having a high IQ does not necessarily mean one will succeed, though there may be a lowest amount IQ threshold required for success. Gladwell suggests that the connection between success and IQ only works up to a certain point and that once somebody has attained an IQ of about 120 then having extra IQ points does not translate into any advantage.Here,I believe the author makes two incorrect inferences (Gladwell 86). Gladwell argues that great men and women are beneficiaries of collaboration, time, specialization, culture and place. An outlier’s way for success isn’t personal myth but it is the combination of time and opportunity on task. Outliers is divided into two parts i.e. part one and part two. In Part one, which is entitled opportunity, Glad well tries to discredit several notions that geniuses are born not made, that people succeed mostly through their own ideas, and that courage trumps luck when explaining life outcomes. This part Contains five chapters which are organized around stories based on unsystematic research intended to prove that outliers, including geniuses are mainly products of one or another kind of

Week Two LT Assignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Week Two LT Assignment - Essay Example By integrating the quality program to the core process of their manufacturing of CD changers, BJB will be able to produce durable components. The products target market already exists; hence the main issue with the product is durability and better sound quality for vehicles. High end CD-changers should be of appropriate size saves on power and has the appeal for various car markers. Cost effectiveness would be applied by using affordable and durable electronic parts from countries like Japan. The recommended quality management approach to use for various projects is a Quality Philosophy methodology. This method is beneficial; firstly, because it guides and influences the way directors of the company applies strategy and innovation (Hoyle, 2008). By reducing staff turnover and improving quality assurance, this approach can be deemed most appropriate. Additionally, the organization will be in a position to motivate itself to meet their clients’ demand of quality products and services. A quality philosophy system will help BJB to enhance their productivity by engaging the organization divisions and the external contributors like suppliers and lenders. This usually creates a culture of continuous innovation in problem solving of technical matters. In conclusion, by adopting this philosophy, BJB can easily adapt to the ever consumer needs and this will promote efficiencies and quality on higher level (Hoyle, 2008). This is the basis of creating excellence and a healthy team that not only promotes business success but also sustains continuous

Styles of Leadership in Different Cultures

Styles of Leadership in Different Cultures Executive Summary There are various motivational theories and styles of leadership which are being practiced by organizations worldwide. Certain motivational theories and styles of leadership would only be applicable based on factors such as the culture within which the organization operates. Sri Lanka being a country where power culture has been dominant has to follow less flexible, more extreme motivational theories and styles of leadership such as McGregors XY Theory and Autocratic or Authoritarian Leadership style respectively. It has been identified that there are various advantages and disadvantages of pursuing certain leadership styles. However, it is clear that independent of the style of leadership used, if the leader is an effective leader, this would be a great strength for an organization. Standard Chartered Bank having reported seven successive years of record income and continuous expansion of market share, despite the existing global economic condition, has been recognized as one of the worlds leading banks. The success is entirely a result of the effort of employee groups and leaders of the bank who have been exposed to a unique culture which has been brought up at the bank. Table of Contents Table of Figures Introduction An organization can be defined as a group of individuals working together to achieve a common goal or objective. To achieve these common goals and objectives an organization would require leadership as well as motivation. There are various styles of leadership and motivational theories which are practiced by organizations in order to achieve the desired result. Above all, effective leadership could be identified as one of the best motivational factors. An extensive analysis regarding Standard Chartered Bank has been done with the purpose of analyzing functions of groups, teams and leadership within organizations. Standard Chartered PLC is a British financial services company headquartered in London, England with operations in more than seventy countries. It operates a network of over 1,700 branches and outlets (including subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures) and employs 80,000 people. Despite its British base, it has few customers in the United Kingdom and around 90% of its profits come from Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Motivational Theories and Leadership Motivation could be defined as a psychological process where internal and external factors influence a person to be continuously interested in pursuing and achieving goals. It could be said that motivation influences a persons behaviour at work and ultimately how he performs during the job. There are various motivational theories followed by organizations to motivate their employees and some of these theories are discussed below. Motivational Theories Douglas McGregors Theory X and Theory Y Douglas McGregor has developed two models which are known as Theory X and Theory Y. These two theories were formulated through examination of theories on individual behaviour at work. Douglas McGregors Theory X states that an average human being dislikes work, prefers to be directed, avoids responsibility, has little or no ambition, works for money and mainly security. Theory X has given rise to two management approaches, which are the soft and hard approach. Under the soft management approach, managers seek harmony with the employees under the impression that employees would cooperate with them when necessary. Where, under the hard management approach an employee has to be coerced, controlled, directed and threatened till the expected result it achieved. However, it should be noted that none of the extremes are suitable as employees require more than monetary rewards, they require fulfilling their higher order needs. It is understood the main reason for organizations to use this approach is to ensure that employees behave in the expected manner. Theory Y, unlike Theory X looks at an average human being from a more optimistic angle. Theory Y states that an average human being likes work, directs himself, accepts and seeks responsibility. Theory Y would be more valid and is used by organizations as this would result in higher levels of motivation for employees through matching organizational goals with personal goals. Further, this would lead to employee empowerment as creativity and opportunity to exercise initiative is allowed. Maslows Hierarchy of Needs Theory Maslows Hierarchy of Needs Theory speaks of five groups of basic needs which usually motivate behaviour in many cultures. These basic needs are Physiological, Safety, Social, Esteem Needs and Self Actualization. Figure (Maslows Hierarchy of Needs) In Maslows Hierarchy of Needs Theory, once a need has been satisfied, the desire to satisfy a higher need rises. Hence, a person would be motivated to perform better. Organizations would use this theory to decide on what type of motivation needs to be given to its employees. Organizations use this theory by identifying, Behaviour of an individual at a given moment depends on his strongest need Physiological needs have the highest strength and a majority of employees would work to satisfy this level only An unsatisfied need acts as a motivation factor Once a need is satisfied the desire to achieve a higher order need rises A satisfied need would no longer act as a motivation factor ERG Theory ERG Theory resembles Maslows Hierarchy of Needs Theory. ERG Theory has three groups of needs. Where the first group would be Existence Needs (i.e. physical and material wants), second group would be Relatedness Needs (i.e. desire for interpersonal relationships) and third group would be Growth Needs (i.e. desire to be creative and productive). However, unlike Maslows Hierarchy of Needs Theory, the ERG Theory states, if frustrated in trying to satisfy Growth Needs, Relatedness Needs will re-emerge (frustration regression process). Organizations would use ERG theory to help them identify their employees dynamic needs and help the organizations to understand why employees have such dynamic needs (i.e. once satisfaction progression occurs the needs change and once frustration regression occurs needs change once again). Herzberg Two Factor Theory or Motivation Hygiene Theory Herzberg after carrying out many surveys concluded that to understand employee satisfaction or dissatisfaction work had to be divided into two categories. Motivation Factors: Factors which are strong contributors to job satisfaction. Hygiene Factors: Factors which are not strong contributors to job satisfaction but which must be present to meet an employees expectations and prevent job dissatisfaction. Hygiene Factors: Job security Relations with others Physical working conditions Company policies Pay Quality of supervision Motivation Factors: Achievement Responsibility Recognition Opportunities for personal growth Promotion opportunities Organizations use Herzbergs Two Factor Theory firstly to identify if their employees hygiene factors are met through which an assessment could be made regarding whether the employee is satisfied with the job or not. If not, the organization can identify which factors need to be adjusted so that this may alleviate job dissatisfaction. However, to motivate someone to perform better or to increase satisfaction motivation factors must be addressed by the organization. Using this theory, an organization would be able to identify which form of motivation would be necessary to motivate an employee as motivation factors relate to the nature of the work itself and the way the employee performs it. It should be further noted that this theory has a twofold approach of eliminating dissatisfiers and enhancing satisfiers. Victor Vrooms Expectancy Theory According to Victor Vrooms Expectancy Theory employees will work hard to achieve rewards that they values and that they consider obtainable. Further, Victor Vroom states that an employee will be motivated to exert a high level of effort to obtain reward under three conditions. The employee believes that his or her efforts will result in acceptable performance. The employee believes that acceptable performance will lead to the desired outcome or reward. The employee values the reward. (Karen Collins, 2007 cited in Flatworld Knowledge, n.d) Figure (Expectancy Theory Model) (Karen Collins, 2007 cited in Flatworld Knowledge, n.d) Organizations would use this theory as it would help the organization to understand and interpret, How employees decide to work The effect of planned rewards programs The effect of such planned rewards on the productivity of employees Sri Lanka is a country within which power culture is dominantly seen not only within society but also within organizations. As a result of this culture which has not changed much throughout the years, work force of an organization would naturally await orders from the top and are not interested to take initiative in most situations even when given the chance. Hence, when considering motivational theories which are now widely practiced through the world where a technique of motivating employees in a natural manner is used, it could be understood that such motivational theories if applied within organizations of the country may not result in the expected outcome. Based on this information it is possible to arrive at the conclusion that the most suitable motivational theory to be used by organizations operating within Sri Lanka is McGregors XY Theory where Theory X assumptions have to be used. Leadership Leadership Styles Leadership could be defined as a relationship through which one person influences the behaviour or actions of other people. There are various factors which should be considered when selecting a style of leadership. For example, nature of task (i.e. Urgency, Complexity), type of people being led (i.e. Maturity, Technical Experience, Competence), etc. There are mainly three types of leadership. The Authoritarian or Autocratic Style: A leader exercising this style would make decisions alone without advice from their followers and would state what has to be done and how. Such a style would be suitable in an occasion when all the required information to solve a problem is available, there is a lack of time and the employees are well motivated. The Participative or Democratic Style: A leader exercising this style would involve employees in the decision making process. The leadership functions are shared with members of the group resulting in greater interactions within the group. The group members have a greater say in decision making, determination of policy, implementation of systems and procedures. (Laurie J. Mullins 2007, p. 371) However, it should be noted that the leader maintains the final decision making authority. A Laissez Faire (Genuine) Style or Delegative Style: A leader exercising this style would allow the employees to make decisions after observing how employees work on their own. This is done when employees are able to analyze a situation and decide what has to be done and how. However, the leader would still be responsible for the decisions made. Beyond these leadership styles, it should be understood that leadership behaviour could either be directive or supportive. Advantages and Disadvantages of Leadership Styles Leadership Style Advantages Disadvantages The Authoritarian or Autocratic Style More group productivity while leader watches Decision making process is quicker as the leader makes the decision individually The organization may respond to danger quickly The level of dependence on the leader increases The level of hostility among employees may increase Work force may dislike being ordered around resulting in employee de-motivation The Participative or Democratic Style A positive work environment could develop Motivates creative thinking Reduces employee turnover as a result of less friction between the work force and the leaders Slower decision making Arguments may arise A Laissez Faire (Genuine) Style or Delegative Style Results in employee empowerment Promotes independent thinking Motivates creativity Employees can misuse the freedom given to them and perform poorly Figure (Advantages and Disadvantages of Leadership Styles) Leadership and Motivation Distinguished An authoritarian or autocratic leadership style is followed when employees are dependant and resist change. The efficiency of such employees would be low. Through high levels of supervision, command and control which is exercised by such leaders would motivate employees mainly in three forms. They are, Peer Motivated: As employees would like to be like others Authority Motivated: As employees would follow policies Threat and Fear Motivated: As employees would react to force When a participative or a democratic leadership style is followed there would be greater interaction within the group and hence the personality and efficiency of employees depends on the leaders skills and the work environment which he has created. When following such a leadership style, employees would be motivated in three forms. They are, Goal Motivated: As employees may recognize some opportunity Reward Motivated: As employees would recognize some opportunity for some material reward Recognition Motivated: As employees would recognize an opportunity for change in social status A Laissez Faire or delegative style is followed when employees take up leadership, thrive on change or opportunity, are independent and are achievers. Such employees would be very efficient compared to employees under other leadership styles. Leaders following this style would have limited supervision and would delegate decision making responsibility to employees. When following such a leadership style, employees would be motivated in two forms. They are, Self Motivated and Team Motivated: As employees are allowed to practice creativity When the above three types of leadership and motivation associated with them are analyzed, naturally a participative or a democratic leadership style is best to follow because in a team-motivated environment, dependant employees will be inspired and will strive to be acceptable with independent thinking co-workers. However, as it was mentioned before, due to the culture element of the country work force of an organization would naturally await orders from the top and are not interested to take initiative. Therefore, a leadership style where high levels of supervision, command and control is practiced would be more applicable for such an environment meaning, the most suitable leadership style to motivate employees within organizations would be the authoritarian or autocratic leadership style. Effective Leaders; A paramount to an Organization It could be said that effective leaders are the key for success of any organization. There are many characteristics an effective leader should have. Based on the information given below it is possible to understand that an effective leader is strength to an organization in many aspects. Given below are five factors which make an effective leader a paramount to an organization, An effective leader would be able to influence and inspire people to accomplish a goal, or an objective of an organization. It should be understood that leadership is not about power and has no relationship with driving employees to accomplish their tasks and duties out of fear. It should further be understood that an effective leader would help to encourage or motivate other employees to take up leadership, forming a successful and a powerful workforce. An effective leader would be a visionary person meaning awareness of organizational goals, objectives and vision. Only if employees see that their leader is aware of the direction which he must head they will follow him. This could be an advantage to an organization as such a person would be able to lead the employees of the organization in such a manner that they would achieve organizational goals and objectives. An effective leader would be a trustworthy person. It should be understood that trust if a leader is trustworthy his employees would have confidence in him even at tough times. Hence, it should be understood that if an organization has such a leader who has good relationships, is trustworthy and follows ethical standards that this would be a massive strength for the organization as this could be considered the base for an effective organization. Further, this would help the organization to develop a good impression through the community in which it operates. An effective leader would be able to communicate the organizational goals, objective, vision, knowledge and technical expertise to the organizations employees. This would help the employees of the organization to become effective too as they would gain the required knowledge, skills and an idea about organizational goals, objectives and vision. An effective leader would be able to make successful decisions based on intuition. This could lead an organization to success as at times there may be a need to make decisions quickly which maybe of very high importance and value when time for gathering information may be very limited. Groups, Teams and Leadership It is no secret that behind the success of Standard Chartered Bank, the staff of the bank has played a very important role. Effective leadership and well motivated staff has been the key for this excellent performance. To support and improve leadership development within the bank, Standard Chartered Bank now has seven core leadership development programs along with feedback programs such as the 360 feedback tool. Standard Chartered Bank gives special consideration not only for leadership but also for aspects such as employee relations, team building, culture and values, etc. Nature of Groups and Team Roles Nature of Groups A group could be defined as a collection of people who interact with each other over time in order to reach goals. These groups can either be formal or informal, where both types of these groups are seen at Standard Chartered Bank. One note worthy feature of these groups at Standard Chartered Bank is that the groups consist of individuals who come from various backgrounds, cultures and have different skills. However, Standard Chartered Bank has made sure that no conflict among bank staff occurs but instead understanding and development in multiple fields occurs; great example for this will be the employee exchange program (first time in 2008, between India and China) which the bank launched recently. Through this approach, Standard Chartered Bank has been able to, Align teams with business vision and objectives Build staff engagement and commitment Create opportunities for open and courageous conversations Clarify dependencies Accelerate high performance by leveraging strengths Team Roles A team role is, a pattern of behaviour, characteristic of the way in which one team member interacts with another whose performance serves to facilitate the progress of the team as a whole. (Laurie J. Mullins 2007, p.332) As Belbin has stated, even though there are nine team roles, it is rare to find members who are strong in all nine team roles. Standard Chartered Bank too has recognized this and in order to build up teams who are skilled in multiple ways the bank follows job rotation programs and also as it was mentioned above employee exchange programs. Through the employee exchange program or rather the talent exchange program the bank expects to forge stronger working relationships and cultural understanding between the two strategically important markets All our development is based on the philosophy of being a strengths-based organisation. We encourage individuals, managers and teams to identify and focus on their distinctive talents, and constantly challenge them to achieve more with them. We recognise that individual strengths are unique, and that each employee will deliver in a role in a different way. (Standard Chartered Bank, 2009) As it is quoted above, the bank encourages recognition of individual strengths through which the bank expects to achieve greater strengths. Through the interaction of individuals of such nature the bank expects to develop a highly talented work force through team work. Even though an individual member may not be highly talented he will be motivated to achieve and develop new strengths when he would be allowed to interact with people talented in multiple fields. Therefore, it could be understood that team roles play a vital part in the development process of the bank. Stages of Team Building Given below are the stages of team building or team development, Forming formalities are preserved and members are treated as strangers (polite but untrusting). Storming members start to communicate their feelings but probably still view themselves as part of their parent department rather than part of the team. They attack others insular attitudes while guarding their own (testing others). Norming people feel part of the team and realise that they can achieve work if they accept other viewpoints (valuing other types). Performing the team works in an open and trusting atmosphere where flexibility is the key and hierarchy is of little importance (flexibility from trust). (Carter McNamara, 1999) The above four stages of team building or development are very evident at Standard Chartered Bank. The initial two stages would be very clearly seen at the beginning when an employee would be newly selected and/or when they switch branches (consider the employee talent exchange program for example). However, as time passes by (a period of three months for the employee talent exchange program) employees would learn about each other, would value each other especially their culture and would be able to perform with flexibility which would build up from trust. An example for the last stages of the team building process would be when top executives frequently fill in for one another, whether leading regional celebrations, representing Standard Chartered Bank at key external events, or initiating internal dialogues with employees. They make their collaborative behaviour visible through extensive travel and photos of leaders from varied sites working together. Beyond the above mentioned four team development stages, there is one additional step which is known as adjourning. This would mean disbanding of the group due to completion of a task, members leaving the organization or moving on to other tasks. Team Cohesiveness It is one of the main responsibilities of a leader to ensure that the members of his work group cooperate so that the work group would be able to achieve the expected results. It is clear that cooperation among members of work groups is likely to be greater in a cohesive group resulting in beneficial effects for the organization. There are many factors which affect group cohesiveness. These factors could be categorized under four major headings as shown in the diagram below. Figure (Factors Contributing to Group Cohesiveness Performance) (Laurie J. Mullins 2007, p.307) Even though it is stated that there are disadvantages of cohesive groups such disadvantages have been minimized at Standard Chartered Bank through the unique culture which has been bread. The disadvantages of cohesive groups have been overwritten by the advantages of cohesive groups at Standard Chartered Bank resulting in an overall positive outcome. These groups have helped the bank through increased interaction between members of diverse cultures and ethnicities, growth of skills and knowledge of members through mutual help, lower turnover as the member feels that the organization has become a part of him, etc. Motivational Tools and Techniques Standard Chartered Bank follows a range of methods to encourage or motivate their employees. Motivation at Standard Chartered Bank takes place through, Learning and Development: Learning and Development process at Standard Chartered Bank starts once an employee joins the bank and this will continue till the employee resigns the organization. Standard Chartered Bank uses advance new technology to make this process an interesting one and gives encouragement for members to participate. Examples for Learning and Development at Standard Chartered Bank: Right Start, Job rotation, Talent Exchange, Core Leadership Development, 360 feedbacks etc. Employee Relations: Standard Chartered Bank follows an approach where it would deal with employees on an individual basis rather than a collective basis. This approach focuses on direct communication, managing organisational change and involving and motivating employees. Reward and Recognition: There are two elements to remuneration within Standard Chartered Bank; an annual salary and a performance based element. At Standard Chartered Bank performance would not mean just achieving goals instead it means how employees demonstrate the banks unique culture and values in their working lives. Employees would receive individual ratings but those with lowest values of ratings will not receive any performance related bonus even if they have achieved their final targets. Great Working Environment Other Facilities: Standard Chartered Bank has an environment which could be stated as one of the best environments to work at. The structures have been constructed according to expected standards and latest technology has been used where possible. Further, the bank provides other facilities, such as the day care centre where various forms of education would be given for the children of the employees, freeing the employees from the burden of worrying about their children during working hours. Impact of Technology on Team Building It is clear that technological changes have enabled Standard Chartered Bank to achieve new heights in many fields. When considering team building, as it was mentioned above in the previous section, Standard Chartered Bank uses technology right from the beginning of an employees career. Right Start is the new induction process which the bank uses for new employees. It is clear, that even this simple step will help the organization to develop better teams within shorter time periods resulting in more effective outcome. Hence, it is understood that technology has a massive impact on team building process. Our induction process for new employees was enhanced during the year with the launch of a new online virtual world. The Right Start Learning Journey offers access to critical information about our history, core businesses and supporting functions, sustainability agenda and much more in a fun and interactive way. New employees can visit the site, which was created by our Learning and Development Team, as often as they like while a discussion forum allows them to communicate with other new recruits. (Standard Chartered Bank, 2009) It should further be understood, that this same process of new employees getting to know other employees and building up successful teams would have been a very slow process causing possible inefficiencies for the organization in indirect ways. Even though technology has had its positive impact on the team building process it could be said that there are drawbacks if excessive technology is used as it may decrease person to person interactions resulting in lower awareness or understanding regarding one another. However, this situation is not yet seen at Standard Chartered Bank as the bank arranges certain social events where employees can get to know each other better, independent of their position at the bank. Conclusion Due to the strong cultural effect persisting within Sri Lanka, employees would naturally require high levels of supervision, command and control resulting in the usage of leadership styles such as authoritarian or autocratic leadership and extreme motivational theories such as McGregors XY Theory (Theory X assumptions), neither of which could not be considered as the best choice. To overcome this situation, changes to the culture within the organization could be done through an eventual process and in such a manner that employees would not feel threatened. Further, it could be understood that an effective leader could bring about the desired change even in such a culture. Behind every successful organization there would always be a highly talented and committed work force as at Standard Chartered Bank. Based on the information which was stated in the body of the report, it was possible to arrive at the conclusion that due to the unique culture which has been brought up at Standard Chartered Bank where technology and many other elements have played an important role, every employee would have an opportunity to either be an excellent team player or to be an excellent leader. To further improve, the bank can integrate more team based discussions and such activities where technology could be used in a balanced manner.

Narmers Palette :: essays research papers

As Egypt grew and flourished to a powerful and rich nation, it left behind for today's historians, clues and artifacts of a once distinctive, well established and structured society. Proof of this is clearly depicted in king Narmer's Palette. This Palette shows historians the unification of Upper and Lower Egypt, which signified the beginnings of a civilized era centred around the Nile. The unification of Egypt occurred around 3100 B.C., under the First Dynasty of Menes(3100-2850 B.C.). This age is commonly know as the Protodynastic era, which is known for the establishment of a firm political structure of the land which was unified in the hands of the king. The glorification of Lower and Upper Egypt uniting was portrayed in Narmer's Palette, which was found in the ancient southern capital of Hierakonpolis. The general function of Narmer's Palette was to commemorate a victory over his human foes. With Narmer's victory, the Palette also depicts his successful claim and conquest of all of Egypt, thus establishing unification of Lower and Upper Egypt under his rule. The dominant them however, is the victory of the god incarnate over the forces of evil and chaos. The Narmer Palette, while depicting several social aspects and tendencies of the Egyptian society, also reveals and emphasizes their structured positions within a hierarchy of command. Both sides of the Palette reveal, at the top, the name of king Narmer, which first documents, in the written history of Egypt, that we now are dealing with a civilized state. When the scribes wanted to write king Narmer's name, they placed a small fish called a 'nar' over a chisel, pronounced 'mer'. This combination of the words gave them 'Narmer'. The Palette also depicts king Narmer(probably the legendary Menes) wearing the Red Crown of Lower Egypt and the White Crown of Aphroditopolis, which represented Upper Egypt. Since Narmer had claimed victory over the northern king, thus becoming the first Pharaoh, the unification of Egypt was completed. The reverse of the Palette portrays Narmer clubbing a foeman. Narmer is then followed by his foot-washer, which should be noted is shown on a smaller scale and standing on a separate register line, as suited to his relative rank and position in Egypt's hierarchy. Narmer stands before the supreme sky-god Horus, of whom Narmer is also an incarnation, represented as a falcon with a human arm holding a papyrus thicket. On the obverse of this palette, Narmer inspects a battlefield near Buto, with several decapitated bodies of his foemen. Narmer is then preceded by his four standard-bearers and his priest. The middle register of this highly organized recording shows two long-

Narcotics †Research Paper Essay

Narcotics Thesis Statement: Narcotics have valuable medical uses, however, illegal and excessive use of narcotics can endanger people’s lives because of its damaging effects on the mind and body. I.Narcotics Education A.Narcotics B.Kinds of Narcotics C.Characteristics and Medical Uses II.Narcotics Abuse A.Causes of Abuse B.Tolerance and Withdrawal III.Effects of Narcotics Abuse A.Effects on the Person B.Effects on the Family C.Effects on the Community IV.Treatment of Drug Abuses INTRODUCTION Narcotics play a big role in the field of medicine. It has a capability to reduce pain that you are feeling and even helps you to avoid anxiousness. But these drugs should be use properly or else it can cause a big damage in your health. It is very important for us to know something about these things. The study and findings that I have done regarding narcotics is really an important thing because you will be able to know how bad it can affects you when too much used and you will know how to avoid and fight against it. BODY NARCOTICS EDUCATION There are many kinds of drugs, and narcotics are one of them. Narcotics don’t always have bad results in one’s health. In fact, it’s one of the drugs that help ill people to reduce tension, anxiety and aggression. They are also effective pain relievers, used in cough medicine preparation and can induce sleep. These effects are really helpful when it comes on therapeutic setting but when improperly used, narcotics have adverse effects that may lead to abuse, and it will have a big effect on health of an individual who is involve. It can endanger people’s lives because of its damaging effects on the mind and body. The effects of narcotics abuse is felt not only by the individual but by the family, community, and society as well. NARCOTICS The term â€Å"Narcotic† was derived from a Greek word which means â€Å"to make numb.† Narcotics are drugs that relieve pain and induce sleep by depressing the central nervous system. Narcotics, primarily analgesics, produce several affects that relieve pain and induces narcosis that causes sleep. Narcotics, if administered prior to an operation, can enhance sedation and reduce apprehension and anxiety. These drugs have a very high potential for abuse. KINDS OF NARCOTICS, CHARACTERISICS, AND THEIR MEDICINAL USES 1.OPIUM – It is extracted from the seedpod of the poppy. It produces a gummy resin that creates narcotic effect. It can relieve severe pain, induces sleep, relieve anxiety and depression. 2.MORPHINE – It is extracted from opium in 1805 and later synthesized in its pure form. It is sold as a white powder in the drug market which is also called Dreamer or Miss Emma. 3.CODEINE – This is produced from gum of opium and has much milder effects. The common street name for codeine is School Boy. 4.HEROIN – It is synthesized from morphine but more powerful. It is used to help people to overcome their addiction to morphine. It is commonly called Horse, Junk Smack, and Scag. CAUSES OF ABUSE According to the National Statistics Office (2005), about 56.35% of the cases of drug abuse had friends or peers as the primary source of drugs. The causes of drug abuse are: 1.Pressure from peers; 2.Form of escape from problems and woes; 3.Relief from chronic pain caused by cancer and other diseases; 4.Psychological disorders, such as depression or emotional distress; 5.Use as a way out from stress of family life, work, and other concerns; and 6.Thrill and enjoyment in seemingly routine life. NARCOTICS ABUSE Narcotics abuse is the nonmedical use of narcotics. Narcotics abuse is widespread among the young people and the adults, as well as the poor and wealthy. It is, indeed, harmful and even life-threatening. It can ruin one’s life and one’s family. It can break down a person’s character, thus leading to the commission of criminal acts and even suicide. TOLERANCE AND WITHDRAWAL Tolerance is the condition where the standard doses of narcotics produce less effect or a person develops a state of resistance to the effects if the drug. Because of tolerance, the effect of narcotics diminishes with their chronic use. Thus, to maintain the same level of narcotic effect, a person must take more of it. Withdrawal is the reaction of the body when the regular use of narcotics is stopped. The narcotics dependent person experiences a withdrawal syndrome. In general, the symptoms of withdrawal include cramp, defecation, vomiting, and an increase in systolic blood pressure. A person who is excessively dependent may experience convulsions, respiratory failure, and death. EFFECTS OF NARCOTICS ABUSE The effects of narcotics abuse are similar but they differ in the degree of intensity, rate of onset, and the development of dependence. A.EFFECTS ON THE PERSON 1.Drowsiness 2.Loss of appetite 3.Inability to sleep well 4.May develop diseases such as hepatitis, tetanus, AIDS. 5.Skin abscesses 6.Inflammation of the veins 7.Congestion of the lungs 8.Loss of enthusiasm for work or study 9.Loss of personal care and hygiene 10. Psychological and physical dependence upon the drug B.EFFECTS ON THE FAMILY 1.Neglected responsibilities 2.Difficulty in keeping a job 3.Financial difficulty 4.Shame and embarrassment to the other family members 5.Disorganized and unhappy family C.EFFECTS ON THE COMMUNITY 1.Increased incidence of crime 2.Occurrence of different kinds of accidents, especially if the narcotic dependent is driving a vehicle. 3.Rampant stealing 4.Economic destabilization due to less manpower TREATMENT OF DRUG ABUSES Detoxification is the most common form of drug treatment. This is a process of eliminating a person’s dependent on drugs. Part of the detoxification process is to decrease the daily dose of drugs that the dependent person takes and thus gradually reduce withdrawal symptoms. Another method of dealing with drug dependent people is to form a support group of fellow drug dependents. They share their experiences and learn from one another. Together, they recover from their dependence and get better. 1 Agripino G. Darilag, Enjoy Life with P.E, and Health (Manila: SD Publications, Inc., 2009), pp.192 – 201.s BIBLIOGRAPHY Darilag, Agripino G. Enjoy Life with P.E. and Health. Manila: SD Publications, Inc., 2009.

Drought Causes, Stages, and Problems

Drought Causes, Stages, and Problems Every year as summer approaches, areas around the world grow concerned about seasonal drought. Throughout the winter, many places monitor precipitation and the snowpack to prepare for what the warmer, drier months may bring. In addition, there are areas where drought is a regular year to year occurrence that lasts longer than just the summer. From hot deserts to the freezing poles, drought is something that affects plants, animals, and people worldwide. What Is a Drought? Drought is defined as a period in which a region has a deficit in its water supply. Drought is a normal feature of climate which happens in all climate zones from time to time. Usually, drought is talked about in one of two perspectives- meteorological and hydrological. A drought in terms of meteorology takes into account deficiencies in measured precipitation. Each years measurements are then compared to what is determined as a normal amount of precipitation and drought is determined from there. For hydrologists, droughts are monitored by checking stream flow and lake, reservoir, and aquifer water levels. Precipitation is also considered here as it contributes to the water levels. In addition, there are agricultural droughts that can impact crop production and cause changes to the natural distribution of various species. The farms themselves can also cause droughts to happen as the soil is depleted and therefore cannot absorb as much water, but they can be impacted by natural droughts as well. Causes Because drought is defined as a deficit in water supply, it can be caused by a number of factors. The most important one though relates to the amount of water vapor in the atmosphere as this is what creates precipitation. More rain, sleet, hail, and snow can occur where there are moist, low-pressure air systems. If there is an above average presence of dry, high-pressure air systems instead, less moisture is available to produce precipitation (because these systems cannot hold as much water vapor). This results in a deficit of water for the areas over which they move. The same can also happen when winds shift air masses and warm, dry, continental air moves over an area as opposed to cooler, moist, oceanic air masses. El Nino, which affects the oceans water temperature, also has an impact on precipitation levels because, in years when the temperature cycle is present, it can shift the air masses above the ocean, often making wet places dry (drought prone) and dry places wet. Finally, deforestation for agriculture and/or building combined with the resultant erosion can also cause drought to begin because as the soil is moved away from an area it is less able to absorb moisture when it falls. Stages of Drought Since many areas, regardless of their climatic region, are prone to drought, different definitions of the stages of drought have developed. They are all somewhat similar, however, usually ranging from a drought warning or watch, which is the least severe. This stage is declared when a drought could be approaching. The next stages are mostly called drought emergency, disaster, or critical drought stage. This final stage begins after a drought has occurred for a long period and water sources begin to be depleted. During this stage, public water use is limited and oftentimes drought disaster plans are put into place. Short and Long Term Consequences Regardless of a droughts stage, there are short and long term consequences with any drought because of nature and societys dependence on water. Problems associated with drought can have economic, environmental, and social impacts on both the areas where they occur and areas that have relations with those where the drought happens. Most of the economic impacts of drought are associated with agriculture and the income generated from crops. In times of drought, the lack of water can often cause a decline in crop yields, and thus a reduction in income for farmers and an increase in the market price of products since there is less to go around. In a prolonged drought, unemployment of farmers and even retailers can occur, having a significant impact on the economy of the area and those with economic ties to it. In terms of environmental problems, drought can result in insect infestations and plant diseases, increased erosion, habitat and landscape degradation, a decrease in air quality and that of what water is present, as well as an increased risk of fire because of drier vegetation. In short-term droughts, natural environments can often rebound, but when there are long term droughts, plant and animal species can suffer tremendously, and over time desertification can happen with an extreme lack of moisture. Finally, droughts have social impacts that can cause disputes between users of available water, inequalities in water distribution between wealthy and poor, disparities in areas in need of disaster relief, and a decline in health. In addition, in rural developing countries population migration can begin when one area experiences drought because often people will go to areas where water and its benefits are more prevalent. This then depletes the natural resources of the new area, can create conflicts among neighboring populations and takes workers away from the original area. Over time, increased poverty and social unrest are likely to develop. Drought Mitigation Measures Because severe drought is often slow in its development, it is relatively easy to tell when one is coming and in areas that are capable, there are several mitigation measures that can be used to reduce the impacts felt by drought. The most important steps in lessening the effects of drought though are soil and water conservation. By protecting soil, it is better able to absorb precipitation, but it can also help farmers to use less water because it is absorbed and not as much run off. It also creates less water pollution by the pesticides and fertilizers present in most farm runoff. In water conservation, public use is often regulated. This mostly includes watering yards, washing cars and outdoor fixtures such as patio tables, and swimming pools. Cities such as Phoenix, Arizona, and Las Vegas, Nevada have also implemented the use of xeriscape landscaping to reduce the need to water outdoor plants in dry environments. In addition, Water conservation devices like low-flow toilets, shower heads, and washing machines can be required for use inside the home. Finally, desalination of seawater, water recycling, and rainwater harvesting are all things that are currently under development to build on existing water supplies and further reduce the impacts of drought in dry climates. Whatever method is used, however, extensive monitoring of precipitation and water usage are the best way to prepare for a drought, inform the public on the problem, and implement conservation strategies.

Product Dumping and Its Effect on Foreign Markets

Product Dumping and Its Effect on Foreign Markets Dumping is an informal name for the practice of selling a product in a foreign country for less than either the price in the domestic country or the cost of making the product. It is illegal in some countries to dump certain products into them because they want to protect their own industries from such competition, especially because dumping can result in a disparity in the domestic gross domestic products of impacted countries, such was the case with Australia until they passed a ​tariff  on certain goods entering the country. Bureaucracy and International Dumping Under the World Trade Organization (WTO) dumping is a frowned upon international business practices, especially in the case of causing material loss to an industry in the importing country of the goods being dumped. Although not expressly prohibited, the practice is considered bad business and often seen as a method to drive out the competition for goods produced in a particular market. The General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade and the Anti-Dumping Agreement (both WTO documents) allow for countries to protect themselves against dumping by allowing tariffs in cases where that tariff would normalize the price of the good once its sold domestically.   One such example of a dispute over international dumping comes between neighboring nations the United States and Canada in a conflict that came to be known as the ​​Softwood Lumber Dispute. The dispute began in the 1980s with a question of Canadian exports of lumber to the United States. Since Canadian softwood lumber was not regulated on private land as much of the United States lumber was, the prices were exponentially lower to produce. Because of this, the U.S. government claimed the lower prices constituted as a Canadian subsidy, which would make that lumber subject to trade remedy laws that fought such subsidies. Canada protested, and the fight continues to this day.  Ã¢â‚¬â€¹Ã¢â‚¬â€¹ Effects on Labor Workers advocates argue that product dumping hurts the local economy for workers, especially as it applies to competition. They hold that safeguarding against these targeted cost practices will help detract the consequences of such practices between varied stages of local economies. Oftentimes such dumping practices result in increased favoritism of competition between workers, a sort of social dumping that results from making a monopoly of a certain product. One such example of this on a local level was when an oil company in Cincinnati attempted to sell below-cost oil to diminish profits of competitors, thereby forcing them out of the market. The plan worked, resulting in a local monopoly of oil as the other distributor was forced to sell to a different market. Because of this, oil workers from the company who outsold the other were given preference in hiring in the area.

Jacques Derrida Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Jacques Derrida - Essay Example The book wa' tran'lated in Engli'h and publi'hed in U'A in the year 1970. (Gla', John , Leavey and Richard , 86-98) 'ection' of the book and what they contain:Thi' i' no ordinary writing. The common man would not be able to gra'p the import of the content' of thi' book. Even for the intellectual', it i' a tough reading exerci'e. The fir't half of the book contain' the famed e''ay on De'carte' and Foucault. It focu'e' on the development of Derrida'' method of decon'truction. Derrida carefully elucidate' the traditional nature of 'ome nontraditional current' of modern thought. The 'econd half contain' Derrida'' intelligent analy'i' 'howing how and why metaphy'ical thinking mu't exclude writing from it' conception of language. The'e e''ay' are on Artaud, Freud,Hegel, Bataille and Leve-'trau'-'ort of Derrida'' rejoinder to their argument'. Thi' i' the untran'latable formulation of a metaphy'ical 'concept' which doe' not exclude writing. We find Derrida at work on hi' 'y'tematic decon'truction of We'tern metaphy'ic'. The book'' fir't half, which include' the celebrated e''ay on De'carte' and Foucault, 'how' the development of Derrida'' method of decon'truction. ... Hi' new way' of thinking, reading and writing are ba'ed on the total under'tanding of the old way', in their pure and unadulterated form. The chapter-wi'e content' of the book are1. Force and 'ignification, 2. Cogito and the Hi'tory of Madne'', 3. Edmond Jab'' and the Que'tion of the Book,4. Violence and Metaphy'ic': An E''ay on the Thought of Emmanuel Levina', 5. "Gene'i' and 'tructure" and Phenomenology, 6. La parole 'ouffl', 7. Freud and the 'cene of Writing, 8. The Theater of Cruelty and the Clo'ure of Repre'entation,9. From Re'tricted to General Economy: A Hegeliani'm without Re'erve 10. 'tructure, 'ign, and Play in the Di'cour'e of the Human 'cience', and 11. Ellip'i'. Jacque' Derrida wa' born to 'ephardic Jewi'h parent' in Algeria in 1930. He did military 'ervice in France. He began hi' 'tudie' in philo'ophy at the Ecole Normale 'uperieure in Pari' in 1952. Derrida attended Harvard on 'cholar'hip in 1956-57. What the author i' pre'enting in the book:Derrida advocate' for the rejection of We'tern metaphy'ic' 'tating and 'howing that written word' did not 'tand for the 'poken word'. 'poken word' on the other hand did not 'tand for thought. Thought proce'' doe' not 'tand for Truth or God. All thought proce'' end' at the barrier called mind. The thought' can not have any exi'tence beyond the mind-level. That i' the domain of 'piritual experience, where thought' have no role to play becau'e at that level they are not there at all. (Gla', John , Leavey and Richard , 86-98) How it ha' been utilized in the field of communication:Derrida'' contribution to the communication enterpri'e i' mixed one -it i' negative and po'itive. A' for the po'itive 'ide, hi' argument' contribute to the awarene'' of mankind'' common apprehen'ion of being mi'under'tood. No writer can

What does assimilation mean when it comes to second generation Essay - 1

What does assimilation mean when it comes to second generation immigrants studied in BECOMING NEW YORKERS - Essay Example Though incorporation of immigrants from all over the world has been a great accomplishment of America, especially New York, deliberations on how far these immigrants will be able to assimilate have been continuing over the years. According to the authors, social scientists of the mid-twentieth century felt assimilation to be closely connected to, if not to be the same as, acculturation and upward mobility. Assimilation or â€Å"becoming American† meant giving up one’s home-country ties, and the key concern was, â€Å"to what extent?† Social scientists believed that the ties to the home countries would gradually disappear leaving behind a culture which would be more American and less ethnic. This belief has proved to be true as, over the years, conflicts between American and immigrant identities has almost always led to the disappearance of the ethnic identity. The authors quote Tuan’s definition of assimilation as â€Å"becoming a white American,† and those who could not assimilate remained in some ways always foreign. However, ties to their home countries do not play an active role in the lives of the new generation immigrants. While the immigrants make it a point to teach their offspring their ethnic culture, they do not wish for marriage alliances from their home countries, but rather from among the immigrant Americans. Most of the new generation immigrants, especially the Asians, cannot speak their parents’ language, while those who can cannot read or write their native language. They distinguish themselves from their parents so much so that today there are ABCs (American-Born Chinese) and ARCs (American-Raised Chinese) as well as FOBs (Fresh Off the Boat). American-raised Koreans are referred to as 1.5 generation, while the New York-raised Dominicans are Dominicanyorks, and New-York-raised Puerto Ricans are Nuyor icans. In the second chapter of the book, â€Å"Unravelling the Race-Gender Gap in