Arc of Justice Essay Example for Free

Arc of Justice Essay Arc of Justice by Kevin Boyle does a lot more than tell an account of an incident in 1920s Detroit, it goes deeper into the problems of people within the city as well as the city itself. The story focuses on Ossian Sweet, a man from a small town called Bartow, Florida whose parents sent him up north so he could have a chance to make something of himself, which he did. This, however, did not change the fact that he was a black man living in early 20th century America, and moved into the city of Detroit which was known to be the most segregated city in the United States (p. 44) Boyle digs into the personal life of Sweet, as well as the lives of people around him- black and white- to give the reader a clear, realistic aspect of how life was like in 1920s Detroit. The beginning of the novel depicts Sweet’s transformation from a country boy in Florida to an up-and-coming successful doctor in the busy city of Detroit. At the mere age of thirteen, Ossian was sent from the small farm his parents Henry and Dora had to the college in Ohio by the name of Wilberforce. There Ossian began his learning on a campus that was now where near as greatly funded as the white colleges like Harvard. From there he moved on to Howard University, where Ossian got an eye opener about himself as well as the problems with race. When he began his teaching in Harvard in the late 1910s, the race riots were a constant threat, and by living in Washington DC, Ossian got to see a lot of it.

Cultural Events in Penang as a Tourist Destination

Cultural Events in Penang as a Tourist Destination Pulau Pinang or Penang is one of the unique and attractive places in Malaysia with its many cultures which make Penang one of tourists favorite places and tourists attractions. Basically, Penang is famous for their food, religions, cultures and tourism site. According to the UNESCO Worlds Heritage Site of Georgetown says that there are many religions, cultures and foods in Penang, therefore they can blend it well together to make Penang one of the well known states in Malaysia [1]. There is press statement by YB Danny Law Heng Kiang the Penang State Exco for Tourism Development and Culture said that Penang is ranked in the third place under Kuala Lumpur, and Genting Highland (Pahang) for their tourism destination in Malaysia [1]. At first, Malacca is on top of Penang as tourism destination because they receive approximately 8.9 million tourist arrival in the year 2009. Unfortunately, that statement by Datuk Seri Dr. Ng Yen Yen may be a mistake because as we can see from the table 2, Penang has more tourists arrival compare to Malacca [1]. According Britannica Concise Encyclopedia, Penang is an island with an area of 108 sq mi/280 sq km and it is known as one of the busiest ports in the past and it is located in the straits of Malacca, on the North-West Coast of Malaysia. Penang is very famous for their beautiful beaches and islands, foods, cultural, religions and many more [2]. During 16th century, Portuguese merchants Penang was travel from Goa (India) to Far East search for spices, fresh water so they stopped in Penang. In 1786, Penang was very popular among the pirates because they steal ships that cross along Straits of Malacca. At one point, Penang became popular in 18th century and at the same time, Captain Francis Light enter to Penang and start to have good relationship with the locals and also the Sultan of Kedah in 1771. Unfortunately, at that moment itself Sultan of Kedah handed Penang to Captain Francis Light in order to get protection against the threats of Burmese and Siamese. After that, they called Penang as Prince of Wales Island and after the settlement; Sultan Abdullah found out that he is being cheated by the British by not willing to offer protection thus he gathered his army to retake Penang. Lastly, after extensive years of struggling between the locals and the British, Malaysia achieves independence in 31st August 1957 and Penang is one of the 13 states. Penang now is known as Pulau Pinang [3]. What is the Culture in Penang? The cultures in Penang are very unique and most of the tourists interested to know more about Penangs culture. In 2008, the population is Penang approximately 2 million on the island and 1 million is in Seberai Prai which consists of 42% Chinese, 41% Malay, 10% for Indian and also 5% for the Peranakan or Baba Nyonya. Baba Nyonyas culture in Penang is different from Malacca. Baba Nyonyas in Malacca can speak fluent Malay whereby in Penang, the Baba Nyonyas speaks mixture of Hokkien, Malay and English and most of the Baba Nyonyas in Penang still practice their Chinese religion and ancestral worshipping [4]. Basically, language that being spoken in Penang is Malay language whereby English and the Chinese (Hokkien) also being spoken widely in Penang. And lastly the Tamil language is being spoken by the tamils among their community. Next is the religion in Penang which most of the people believes such as Buddhist, Islam, Hindu, Christian, and many more. Basically, Buddhism is one of the main religions in Penang whereby Islam still the official religion of the state. As you can see that Penangs culture is a mixture of Malay, Chinese Indian and it is very interesting for tourists attractions [4]. Furthermore, Penang is famous for their food and this is one of the Penangs cultures. The food in Penang can easily get almost everywhere and anytime in Penang. According the time magazine in 2004, Penang has been the best street food in Asia. Penang is the only place to find such a wonderful, tasty and nice food and also it is so cheap compared to Kuala Lumpur and sometimes people called Penang is the food heaven to eat. The food in Penang is an assortment of Chinese, Nyonya, Malay, India, Thai cuisine. There in Penang also famous for the hawkers food which they sell and served by the road side [4]. Besides that, one of the reason why Penang famous is because they have various of events and festivals that they celebrates such as Penang International Dragon Boat Festival, Chin-gay, Pesta Pulau Pinang, Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Thaipusam, Chinese New Year, Hungry Ghost Festival and many more. These festivals would attract many tourists from all over the world to come and experience throughout the festivals. Moreover, it would be nice if tourists from Malaysia or outside Malaysia to give support and celebrates together in these interesting events. The international dragon boat festival usually held around June and July during the school holidays. Chingay is one of the famous cultural events in penang because it is being celebrated because of the birthday of Kuan Yin or the Goodness of Mercy. Normally, this event is being celebrated every year and attracts tourists as far from United States, Japan, South Africa and also Netherlands. Chingay festival is a parade which teams of people wil l show their skills at balancing 40 foot bamboo flagpoles on their body such as heads, shoulder, hands, and knees. And lastly, Pesta Pulau Pinang is one of the cultural events that being celebrated by all races in Penang. Pesta Pulau Pinang is a carnival that being celebrated in December and it always be lively, happening and colorful carnival every year. There would have a lots of activity includes open air concerts, variety shows, food bazaars, fun fairs, pet shows, exhibitions, games and many more [5]. What is an event? Basically events is about to have a particular function or to inform our guest that when some exciting things is going to happen and going to celebrate. For example, book launches weddings, concerts, carnivals and many more. It is more like a preparations for that particular functions to make it runs smoothly and beautifully. It starts from the PA systems, music, VIP rooms, foods, red carpet, guests and many more [6]. Cultural events that being celebrated by in Penang Penang is famous for their cultures, ethnicities, foods and festivals. Penangs has so many events and festivals that being celebrated throughout the year. Hence, the entire tourist from every parts of the world celebrates together with colorful happenings events in Penang. There are few festivals that being celebrated by all races in Penang such As Chinese New Year, International Dragon Boat Festival, Penang Beach Carnival, Penang Cultural Festival, Malaysia Festival and Pesta Pulau Festivals. The purpose all these festivals are held because is to gather everyone and celebrates the harmonious and unique multi culture in Penang. Many activities are held on the festivals example fashion parades, inter-hotel competition, performance, sell handicrafts, and many more [7]. 1.2 The Problem Statement The purpose of me choosing this topic is because as we can see Penang is developing to one of the leading tourism states. Cultural and events tourism is a product which is difficult to be tested first before use, so by having the cultural events in Penang can also gives Penang recognition as a world heritage site and will be portraying the cultural diversity of Penang. On top of that, by having cultural events and festivals in Penang can analyze the number of tourists inbounds to Penang. Besides that, tourists can come over and try to experience and spread the news to everyone out there about the cultural events that being celebrated by all races in Penang. There are few popular cultural events that being celebrated such as Thaipusam, Chap Goh Meh, St. Annes festival, hungry ghost festival and many more. Basically, Penang is famous for their cultural diversity where they preserve their own traditions and performing arts. On top of that, Penang has own tradition of street culture, cel ebrations, festivals, and ethnic groups and it will be the most unforgettable moments for the tourists who come and experience the festivals. Lastly, the Visit Calendar 2010 has their plans to make Penang as the active tourism sector. Research Objectives/ Aims The objective of this proposal is: To analyze the number of tourists inbounds to Penang during the cultural events celebration. To unite all people together to celebrate cultural events in Penang to support the slogan Satu Malaysia. To investigate the number of tourists that visit Penang according their nationalities. To determine the most favorable cultural events to the least popular and why? To study the revenue or loses generated by tourists as to the cost incurred by the state government to these events. By accumulating these results, we can determine whether to sustain, preserve or to promote cultural events or festivals for the coming years. Research Questions What are the number of tourists inbound to Penang in the 2009? Should Ministry of Tourism Malaysia encourage more cultural events celebrations in order to give Penang recognition as a world heritage site? Should we preserve, promote and sustain our cultural events in Penang in order to pull more tourists from all over the world? What the pull factors are for tourists to visits Penang every year? Hypothesis Statement Hypothesis statement for this topic would be that Penangs culture has a unique attribute that brings people together by having cultural events and festivals throughout the year. To boast those cultural events and festivals requires financial capital, intellectual capital, cultural capital and also social capital to run the events [8]. The existence of cultural events makes people understand other peoples culture better so that they can understand one and another as well as supporting our Malaysias motto which is Satu Malaysia. According to Datuk Lim Guan Eng, the Chief Minister of Penang says that they have to give 100% commitment to protect, preserve, sustain and promote the cultural events in Penang so that it can bring the people together and unite the culture and celebrate it collectively. These would reflect the multiracial people and well preserve culture and heritage which is being listed in UNESCO World Cultural and Heritage Site lately [9]. In the past 6 years, there were twelve countries affected by Tsunami disaster on 26th September 2004 and one of the countries is Malaysia. There were two states in Malaysia was affected by Tsunami which is Penang and Kedah. Both these areas lost everything during the tsunami disasters. At that time, most of the people or tourists are in fear for travelling to other countries. Most of the fishermans village in Kedah is destroyed by the tsunami. On top of that, Penangs tourism slightly decline due to this unwanted disaster. The Government, Corporate, NGOs, and also individuals contribute millions of dollars to help the victims accommodation, medical and many more [9]. Furthermore, there was a change in politics, economy and society due to the tsunami disaster. Penangs economy slightly decline because lacking of tourists from outside and inside the country. Tourists afraid to come and visits Penang thus not much activity or celebrations can we held during that particular period of timer [9]. As we know that the mass media plays important roles in promoting any advertisement doesnt matter in the website or in the daily newspaper. By promoting and advertise something in the website or newspaper, radio, television and so forth may increase the number of tourists who come to Penang. This is one of the strategies to pull tourists to come to Penang after the Tsunamis tragedy. There are some advertisements that may push tourists out of their state or country to come to Penang by having Cheap Air Flight to Penang inclusive Hotel Rooms. For example, in figure 1.0 and figure 1.1 show that Air Asia offer or promotes cheap flight tickets inclusive a room for the tourists as below as Rm1.00 [10]. Tourists can choose to fly either Penang, Kuching, Kuala Lumpur, and Johor Bahru. The travelling period for the tourists is at any time in July 1st 2011 to November 10th 2011. This is because we want more tourists to come to Penang for vacation and also at the same time we can promote differ ent cultural events and festivals that are being celebrating every month [10]. Furthermore, Penang State Tourism is promoting their state as by the campaign goes Visit Penang 2010-1012. So there are many kinds of activities and events is held for example Esplanade in Action- an Evening of Cultural Performance, Penang Sakura Blossom, Chinese New Year cruise-Lili Marleen and many more. Besides that, the food is one of the attractions besides cultural events in Penang for example, Thai Food Fiesta 2010, Penang Durian and Fruits Festivals, Pesta Pulau Pinang and many more. According to Natalie Lee, one of the students from University New South Wales stated that Facebook is one of the top growing social networking in the world nowadays which has more than 140 million users in the whole world. It allows us to find and communicate with our friends and share photos, promoting tourism sites and many more. Penang promotes their tourism sites through Facebook, websites, blogs and many more to pull tourists from every parts of the world. They can share photos, promote hotel rooms, flight tickets to Penang, and update latest events in penang and promote it to all their family members, friends and many more. It is one of the best ways to promote Penang to outsiders [11]. . Theoretical/ Conceptual Framework Theoretical framework As what I have showed the conceptual framework below shows that the research is focus more on the cultural events that being celebrated by all races in Penang. It will be scoped into structural support and cultural infrastructure/ spaces for the cultural events. Next under structural support diagram it will be divided into few points such as handling promotions, ticketing, licensing, printing and distribution of flyers. Besides that, for the cultural infrastructure / spaces will be divided into two main points which is cultural hub and also communities. At the top part of the framework shows that some of the events and festivals that is being celebrated by all races in Penang. Cultural festivals that being celebrated in Penang is Pesta Pulau Pinang, Hungry Ghost Festival, Chingay, Bon Odori and many more. The purpose of celebrating these festivals is because to sustain and promote the cultural events in Penang thus promote it to tourists from every parts of the world. For the second phase of the framework, is the cultural infrastructure and spaces which can be divided into two parts which is cultural hub and communities. According to S.B.Tan, Professor School Of Art, University Sains Malaysia says that the cultural hub, is basically where the performances or festivals is going to carried out, for example museums, restaurants, and many more. Whereby, for the communities are basically about where the festivals or events should should be placed in areas where most of the people live,for example city in Georgetown or Balik Pulau. It would be much easier for the people in Penang to travel to those particular places to celebrate the events [12]. Moving on, on the third phase is the structural support for example handling promotion, ticketing, licensing, distribution flyers and printing. Conceptual framework Cultural Events Tourism For Penang Events and festivals Pesta Pulau Pinang Bon Odori Chingay Hungry Ghost Festival Cultural infrastructure/ spaces Communities It should be placed in areas where the people lives Eg: city of Georgetown or Balik Pulau. Cultural Hub where the performances/ festivals, events is going to carried out eg: museums, restaurants, and many more Scope and Limitations The scope for this study is mainly based on the Tourism Industry in Penang that is rapidly growing in this 21st century. The importance of this sector to the Malaysias economy is to pull more tourists to come and visits Penang through the 3 years campaign of the state government by promoting their VisitPenang 2010- 2012 [13]. According to hotel statistics, in 2008 [14], Penang received 6.3 million tourist inbounds excluding the excursionist who arrive on cruise or live with their family and friends. The figure is higher than previous year which is 5.1 million. Penang State Governments has a mission to target 10 million tourists in 2014 which is 4 years from now. Penangs most profitable income earner comes from tourism sector after manufacturing. According to Ministry of Tourism, Malaysia, the number of local and international tourists arrivals in Penang in 2005 is 48% international tourists whereby for the locals is 52% which comes up 4, 351,909 tourists overall. Every year, the numb er slightly increased doesnt matter it is international tourists nor local people. Regrettably, in 2009 the number of tourists declined sharply which is from 6,307,468 in 2008 but unfortunately in 2009, the number has dropped to 1,347,356 overall totals. Penang this is because Penang focuses more on developing medical tourism and eco-tourism in this few years [13]. This study will look at the statistics rate or the number of tourists come and visits Penang to celebrates and experience the cultural events and festivals thus food as well. There were limitation sources to find for this topic. To find for data and informations, researcher using Google Scholar with journals, articles, Pdftop.com, Kdu Library and online book. Some of the journals and articles need to be purchased or log in as a member in order to read the articles and journals. 1.8 Significance of the study Significance of studying this topic is to analyze the number of tourists inbounds in Penang during the cultural events celebrations whether it gives impacts towards Penangs economy or local environment. Besides that, it is important for us to know what is Penangs mission and target for the tourism sector. Currently, Penang is being ranked at no.4 in foreign and domestic tourists arrivals in Malaysia after Kuala Lumpur, Pahang and Sabah. YB Danny Law Heng Kiang, Chairman for the State Tourism Development Culture, Arts, and Heritage says that he really hopes one day Penang would be No.1 or No.2 in foreign and domestics tourists arrivals in Malaysia. According to statistics, the number of hotel guests is increasing rapidly from 68.8 million in 2008 compared to 61.6 in 2007 especially during the cultural events and festivals that being celebrated every month. It shows that the graph for tourism sector will increase every year [15]. Chapter 2 2.1 Literature Review Definition of cultural events Events are something that happens at a given place. An event is one of the top growing tourism industries and also most thrilling and yet it is connected to leisure. One of the reason why so many countries keeps on promoting their events so that they can pull more tourists from every parts of the world to come and visits their country. Basically, an event is more to persuade tourists to come or participate during their events and also can makes them stay longer in that particular area. According to Getz, events are one of the important roles in tourism industry because it can attract more tourists thus to fill up their free during their visits to that particular country (1991). Most of the tourists expects for festivals, events or attractions in a tourism destination. Events or festivals also can intensify tourists experience and perhaps can make tourists stay longer thus persuade them to extend their holidays in particular tourism destinations (Getz, 1991). Cultural events basically are for religious, public events such as arts, performances, crafts demonstrations, and many more (Richards, 1996).All the small towns are actively has cultural events for profit, or to boost the tourism industry (Goldblatt, 2002). Most of the tourists are attracted to unique cultural events and somehow they will participate when the event is held. Organizers would make the cultural events livelier to ensure that the tourists meet their satisfaction during the festivals thus to make sure that they gets more profit from the tourists. Why is it so because to increase the tourism industry and to promote our country to worldwide. 2.2 Statistics Rate Tourists Come to Penang Statistics plays important role in counting the number of tourists inbounds in Penang 2005 2009. How many tourists have been visiting Penang? To calculate and determine the actual statistics requires big costs of money to collect data, to analyze and to present it to the state government. The number of tourists visiting Penang announced by the Tourism Ministry is based on immigration cards filled with their profiles at the by visitors and have to show it at the port of entry. Tourists are freely to move everywhere within the country unless visitors did bad mistakes. According to Penang State Government, Penang has their own statistics rate number of international and local tourists arrivals in Penang in 2005 to march 2009. Within these 5 years, overall total number of tourists either locals or international is about 21, 881,848 people arrived in Penang .In 2005 the local tourists arrival is about 2,267532 people whereby the international tourists approximately about 2,084,377 people. Furthermore, the overall total number of tourists in 2006 is about 4,688,504 people which are in percentages 54% of local tourists and 46% of international visitors. Moving on, the overall total number of tourists arrivals in Penang in 2007 has increasing compared to year before which is 2006 which is 5,186,611 tourists. Among the 5 years between 2005- 2009, the highest amount of tourists arrival is in 2008 which is 6,307,468 visitors in percentages it would be 55% for the locals and 45% for the international tourists inbounds in Penang. Finally, in 2009 the total n umber of tourists inbounds in Penang was sharply dropped from 6,307,468 tourists in previous year whereby in 2009 the overall total number of tourists is 1,347,356 visitors arrivals in Penang (2010). As stated by the Tourism Minister, Datuk Seri Ng Yen Yen, tourists arrivals in 2009 has dropped from 6,307,468 to 1,347,356 tourists due to the Influenza a (H1N1) scare. On the other hand, international tourists from Europe and United Kingdom remained the same. She stated that the tourists are safe as health authorities helps to prevent the spread of the disease towards the tourists. On top of that, Datuk Ng.Yen Yen had a discussion with the directors of 44 Tourism Malaysia regarding promotional plans to persuade tourists to visits Malaysia because Malaysia is one of the countries safe from Influenza H1N1 (Bernama). As mentioned earlier, Malacca overtakes Penang as tourists destination in 2009. Statistics shows that tourists arrival in Penang dropped from 6.3 million in 2008 to 1.3 million in 2009. Compared Penang to Malacca, Penang has a lot and good accessibility and products for example foods, beaches, cultures, and many more. Datuk Seri Dr. Ng Yen Yen strictly wants the state government to do something in order to increase more tourists in 2010. She suggested that Penang has a potential to become one of the countrys leading tourists destination because Penang has 191 flights from 12 international airlines flying in Penang. Besides that, she recommend that state government should put more initiative in hiring well-trained tourists guides which experts in the field of Penang history and heritage. These tour guides, service counters, and restaurant employees should know very well and are able to share the history and stories behind heritage buildings. In this way, we can give the visitors speci al services and make them satisfy during their visits to Penang (Y.Y.Ng, Nov, 2010). 2.3 The Economic and Social cultural Impacts on Cultural Events in Penang According to Gawler Visitor Information Centre, cultural events is one of the most exciting festival celebrations that can pulls many tourists from every parts of the world to make revenues in the economy of tourism industry . On top of that, behind the significant of cultural events, it has its economic and also socio cultural impacts on cultural events in Penang. There are few factors will indicate the economic and socio cultural impacts on cultural events in Penang. Economic impacts on cultural events in Penang As stated above, there are few factors that show the economic impacts on cultural events in Penang and it can be divided into negative and positive. Negative economic impacts on cultural events in Penang are the revenue or loses generated by tourists as to the cost incurred by the state government to these events. According to Priscilla, Penang tourism sector requires approximately RM 50 million for tourism in Penang. Based on 2008 statistics, there were 6.3 million tourists arrivals in Penang and as what the Chief Minister said that RM 500,000 is not enough for the tourism to conduct an activities and events especially which is connected to the infrastructure, promotions, and also improving the facilities (2010). The RM 50 million are required in order to have events, festivals, upgrading the quality of beaches and many more as now Penang is the third highest contribution state in tourism sector. According to Ministry of Tourism Malaysia, in 2009, the tourists arrivals in Penang has dropped to 1.3 million due to the influenza H1N1 thus there were loses generated by tourists as to the high amount of cost incurred by the state government to these tourism sector (2010). The money that they use to upgrading the facilities, promotions, events and festivals is not balance with how much money the tourists spend during their visits to Penang thus it would be a lose for Penang. The positive economy impacts on cultural impacts in Penang are can increase the tourism economy and society development in Penang (Jafari, 2000). Positive impacts on cultural events in Penang would be the job opportunities in Penang. In 2008, hotels in Penang received approximately 6.3 million tourists which are locals and also international compared to 2007 about 5.1 million tourists arrivals in Penang. The statistics shows that there was slightly increase of 1.2 million visitors arrivals which would indicate that there are so many job opportunities out there for the people who really need to w ork (Administrator III, 2009). This is say that they need more labors to work in such places like hotels, restaurants, tour guides, and many more. Moving on, in 2010, Penang Tourism Minister target 10 million tourists arrivals in 2014. Indirectly says that they need more employment to work in this industry (Administrator III, 2010). Socio Cultural Impacts on Cultural Events in Penang In this part of literature review, one of the socio cultural impacts on cultural events in Penang is diplomatic relations. According to The Star Online, Penang Government and Russian Embassy are thinking to organize a Russian cultural event every year in order to remembrance of the Russian battleship (Zhemchug) close by Penang coast during the World War. Vorobyeva Lyudmila Georgievna the new Russian ambassador said that their sailors weve been buried in Western Cemetery on Jalan Utama in Penang Island and Pulau Jerejak. Besides that, she also expresses her gratitude to Penang State because the help to clean and uphold those 12 sailors that have been buried in Western Cemetery. Furthermore, she spoke to Datuk Seri Lim Guan Eng and said that it would be much better to organize a Russian cultural event in Penang every year. She suggests that the Russian cultural event would have interesting Russian folk performances, classical, Russian music, and also Russian food as well. Thus, Malaysi a can have bond relationships Russian and with the Russian cultural event it would help to encourage more Russian tourists to come to Penang in the future (2010). Conclusion In conclusion, cultural events are one of the pull factors to bring in tourists from every parts of the world regardless the international or the local tourists. To have such cultural events or festivals can increase our economy in tourism sector thus Penang can be one of the states to be recognize internationally with the uniqueness and amazing beaches, nice foods, great heritage and many more. The existence of cultural events can also promote and bond relationships between the locals and visitors by having lots of activities and know how to appreciate different cultures, religion and race. Chapter 3 Research design and methodology 3.1 Overview In Chapter 3, there will be 5 main points to highlight in this sample proposal. In the first part of this topic is the general idea on the research design and methodology. Next, it is the elaboration about the introduction of the research proposal. Basically, it talks about the purpose of doing this topic and explanation about the cultural events that s being celebrated by all races in Penang. Moving on, there will be a research design in this chapter 3 such as investigating the population and the sampling techniques that is going to apply. After that, it will be explanation regarding the procedures of data collection and data analysis which will be divided into 2 sections which is primary data and secondary data. And lastly, there will be a short explanation about the questionnaires design. References Administrator III (2009) boost in Penang tourists arrivals http://www.visitpenang.gov.my/portal3/penang-tourism-news/539-boost-in-penang-tourist-arrivals.html Administrator III (2010) Speech by The Rt Hon Mr Lim Guan Eng, Chief Minister of Penang- Launch of the Penang Investment Tourism Office (PITO), Singapore http://www.visitpenang.gov.my/portal3/penang-tourism-news/1187-speech-by-the-rt-hon-mr-lim-guan-eng-chief-minister-of-penang-launch-of-the-penang-investment-tourism-office-pito-singapore.html PRISCILLA DIELENBERG (2010) CM: Penang needs RM50mil for tourism http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?sec=nationfile=/2010/4/18/nation/20100418170830 Ministry of tourism Malaysia (2010)NUMBER OF TOURIST ARRIVALS FROM TEN LEADING COUNTRIES TRANSITING THROUGH PENANG AIRPORT 2004 2008 http://www.penang.gov.my/index.php?ch=16pg=44lang=eng Jafari, J. (2000). APEC international tourism symposium: the scientification of tourism. 65 Korea Tourism Policy, summer, Vol.2, No.3, 56-59. Seoul: Korea tourism Research Institute (KTRI). http://www2.uwstout.edu/content/lib/thesis/2002/2002kwonh.pdf Tourism facts sheet gawler visitor tourism centre http://www.gawler.sa.gov.au/webdata/resources/files/5_Gawler_Impacts_Tourism.PDF The star online (2010) Annual Russian fest proposed http://thestar.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2010/11/6/north/7320843sec=north

Examining methods of analysing a Companies Environment

Examining methods of analysing a Companies Environment There are factors within the environment that the organization operates that are beyond the control or influence of the organisation but these factors affect the business or strategy planning. The STEEPLE analysis is focusing on the external macro-economic environment that a business operates. This helps business to understand the environment, in which it operates, and the opportunities and threats that exist or are emerging within it. An understanding of the opportunities can help a business to take advantage of the opportunities that exist and reduce the threats to the barest minimum. The STEEPLE analysis helps to understand associated risk with growth in market or decline and thus the potentials and direction for business. STEEPLE is an acronym for Socio-cultural, Technological, Economic, Environmental, Policy, Legal and Ethical factors respectively. Some of these factors tend to overlap when conducting the analysis. Below is a STEEPLE analysis of the UK motor car market. Socio-cultural: the pattern of lifestyle affects demand of vehicles, availability and willingness of individuals to work and therefore the kind of vehicles are manufactured. The institution of marriage has fallen, there are more single parents, people are having fewer kids and consumer trends which include fashion ability, luxury preference, working population, spending power etc. Technological: new innovations and technologies keep emerging in the car industry and bring about new products and processes e.g. introduction of three-point seat belt, airbag, electronic stability control, Intelligent Transport System (ITS), Intelligent Speed Adaptation (ISA), E-call, Driver Assistance Systems such as E-call and Driver Assistance System such as Electronic stability control and Emergency Brake Assist. Environmental: according to SMMT, the climate change has had a great impact on the car industry and this has great impact on vehicle demand. This overlaps with the ethical factors because the car industry is trying to make vehicles environmentally friendly by trying to make 95% of vehicles recyclable by 2015 in order to comply with the End of Life Vehicle (EVL) Directive. Average CO2 emissions of cars bought through the scheme were 132.9g/km, which was over 27% below the CO2 figures of the outgoing cars that were scrapped. Also there is an effort to improve environmenta l standards at sites processing vehicles and limit the use of materials harmful to the environment in the new vehicle Climate Change Level (CCL). This has increased demand for hybrid cars. Ethical: some ethical issues have to be considered in the market, these include ethics in workplace, balancing stakeholder interests, human rights, reduction in CO2 emission from vehicle and manufacturing process (Farnham 2010). Also, the Climate Change Levy (CCL) agreement was signed by 11 UK vehicle manufacturers as co-ordinated by SMMT has effects on car industry. Political: policies that affect the car market include 2008 piece of legislation which committed European Vehicle manufacturers to cut average CO2 emission from cars to 130g/km by 2015, 2009 European Whole Vehicle Approval Directive, introduction of the Scrappage Incentive Scheme, taxation, congestion charges, other policy areas being formulated include alternative fuels, smarter driving technologies, and lower resistance tyres. SMMT has reported that 395,000 new vehicles have been registered under the Scrappage Incentive Scheme, which has now ended. There were 388,540 new cars and 6,959 new LCVs registered for the period, with 8.1% of all new car registrations and 2.1 LCV registrations in April being linked to the scheme Legal: this is closely linked to environmental political and ethical factors but includes health and safety, company law, consumer protection law. Manufacturers have to abide by policies formulated by government and regulatory bodies. This also affects the UK car industry either positively or negatively. Economic: macro-economic policy, markets and prices, price levels, global trends, market structure, public spending, wages and salaries, balance of payment, taxation etc. (Farham, 2010) the industry generates turnover approaching 52billion GBP so the Scrappage Incentive Scheme was introduced to support the industry because of its importance to the nation. Over 181,092 new vehicles had been registered under the scrappage scheme by the end of September. There is an order bank of a further 80,000 vehicles. The scrappage scheme is largely self-funding for government with the 15% VAT paid on a car bought for  £7,650 covering the  £1,000 government contribution (SMMT). The environmental, political and economic factors can be said to have the greatest impact on the strategy planning of the UK car industry. The product market, competitive structure and nature of competition of the UK car market cannot be analyzed without Porters five forces analysis. Threat of entry: The UK car market has high barriers to entry because it is extremely consolidated, well developed value added chain, RD capability, investment capability in terms of equipment which means existing manufacturers can make relatively high profits. Power of buyers: Buyers have little or no bargaining power in the market, households have no power at all but companies that buy fleet cars for official use have very little bargaining power. Power of Suppliers: there is a lot of power in retail and distribution of cars and this power depends on the price of the seller. The threat of substitutes within the industry also determines the power of the supplier as they can switch brands easily. Competitive rivalry: The UK car market can be said to be oligopolistic in nature because there are about 30 firms with the major rivals being are Ford, GM (Vauxhall), VolksWagen, Renault, Peugeot, Toyota, BMW, Citroen and Honda. Ford is Britains best-selling commercial vehicle (CV) brand and last year took over 24 per cent of the CV market. In a challenging market new models such as the ECOnetic Transit and ECOnetic FiestaVan, will play an important role in maintaining Fords competitive position (Ford). In oligopolistic markets there is a high degree of interdependence and so firms will think carefully how their rivals might react to any actions they take. This can lead to an emphasis on non price competition; a price change is relatively easy to imitate and so firms may rely more on methods such as branding or product development. The presence of powerful competitors with established brands creates a threat of intense price wars and poses strong requirement for product differentiati on. Also, there is cost of leaving the industry because of high levels of investments already on ground so firms fight hard to survive because resources are not easily transferrable and as the market is shrinking, these firms fight for a share of falling sales. Brand loyalty is very poor in this market because customers are likely to switch easily from brand to brand. Threat of substitute: this is linked to the power of buyers and sellers. The car market also faces direct competitors like public transport, air, rail, tubes, sea, bicycle and walking but the major source of substitute is the sale of second hand cars. It can be argued that the demand for cars is elastic because it is affected by substitute goods (as listed above) and complimentary goods (insurance, tyres, fuel, license, taxes, Ministry of Transport (MOT). Research two examples of how Human Resource Management in manufacturing has been influenced by and responds to changes in the environmental context as outlined in a. The automotive sector is highly flexible, dynamic and ever expanding. As a result of its flexibility and expansion, it responds to the global challenges which include GDP and trade growth, deep cultural shifts in the economic patterns and strong environmental aims. The automobile industry is constantly changing and adapting to challenging commercial, regulatory and technological trends, competition in the market, discrimination by customers, pressure from government and influence groups. So it can be argued that the car industry adopts the contingency or best-fit school of HRM which advocates the need to fit HR strategy into its surrounding context. The concept of E-V-R congruence as a measure of how well an organisation is attuned to its environment was developed by Thompson (2005). E- Represents the environment which includes the opportunities and threats that exist within it while R is the resources and V represents the value. The concept of congruence is very important and an organization achieves this when its resources, environment and values are mutually reinforcing. Its strategic position will be strong. The macroeconomic understanding is needed by organizations in order to predict and plan for changes in demand for their products, human resources, inflation and changes in investment. Human resource has to match external environment to the companys objectives. The most significant feature of HRM is the importance attached to strategic integration. Legg (1989) argued that one of the common themes of typical definitions of HRM is that human resource policies should be integrated with strategic business planning. As Baird and Meshoulam (1988) remarked, business procedures and systems are developed and implemented based on organisational needs that is when strategic perspective to human resource management is adopted. Human resource managers play a significant role in ensuring that the strategies adopted by the organization are fully supported by the required workforce so HR has to know how many staff needs to be recruited, retained and developed to satisfy consumer demand. In 2009, recession reduced demand for vehicles leading to a sharp fall in vehicle production and hence turnover. This year saw one of the biggest economic challenges of the automotive industry has ever seen with global sale plummeting, plants cutting production and RD budget at considerable risk. This means demand for cars will reduce because of economic meltdown, supply will reduce and labour needed will be cut. Employment in the sector has decreased despite continued efforts to protect the vital industrial capability by introducing short-term working, time banking etc. Despite the surge in sales towards the end of the year as car scrappage scheme kicked in, Toyota in the UK saw production plummet 40 per cent from 213,000 in 2008 to 127,000 in 2009(Robert Lea times online jan 28,2010http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/industry_sectors/industrials/article7006329.ece). Toyota had to adapt to its work share programme to fulfill orders incentive by the Scrappage Incentive Scheme. Later on, it led to cutting of 750 jobs, or around a fifth of the workforce, in the face of crashing car sales. The decision will come as a blow to Toyota workers who had already been rattled last year by workshare programmes, reduced hours and non-production workers. Over last year, Toyota also accepted 300 applications for voluntary redundancy. (the times February 19,2010) Toyota is to shut down its UK production plant next month leaving 3,500 workers idle. The unprecedented halt for two working weeks is a result of a collapse in its car sales amid consumer concerns over the safety of the Japanese companys vehicles. Sales of Toyotas are thought to be plunging worldwide after multiple recalls affecting 8.5million cars around the world. The company employs 3,900 workers at its main production site in Burnaston and 570 at its engine plant in Deeside. It has already cut 200 temporary jobs and opened a voluntary redundancy scheme last week. Toyota said in a statement: following extensive consultations with our employees representatives, and with input from all employees, it has been agreed that the best way to secure long term employment is to temporarily reduce working hours and base pay by 10pc. Toyota also scrapped the annual pay increase for employees and cancelled management bonuses, while its UK factories have just finished a fortnights shutdown. All these measures were introduced to reduce cost for the company because of the fall in demand for Toyota products caused by recession, the recall of Toyota cars due to safety issues etc. SMMT estimates that approximately 70% of the cars bought under the scrappage scheme represent additional sales which would not otherwise have happened in 2009. Since there was an increase in the demand for cars, this means that the demand for labour in Ford, whose engine plants in Bridgend and Dagenham employ 4,000 people, had to introduce extra shifts to be able to supply more cars. August output was up 36.5% at Dagenham and 18.3% at Bridgend, compared to 2008. Ford estimates that this resulted in positive knock-on effect for around 100,000 of their UK jobs in sales, distribution and sale supply. (SMMT) Also, due to the rapid change of technological advancement, new makes/models, reduction of CO2 emission and the introduction of the Scrappage Incentive Scheme, the car industry in UK now has a high demand for management/ leadership skills and technical skills. These changes have also made it necessary for the car industry to give staff constant training, since staffs with excellent sales skills are essential for the profitability and success of the sector. The ever-growing feast of technology and the need for constant on the job learning the sector specific product Automotive Technician Accreditation (ATA) was developed. To become ATA registered, an individual must pass a comprehensive and rigorous series of tests of practical skill and knowledge to ensure that they keep up to date with new technologies; technicians need to be assessed in order to maintain their accreditation. http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2010/jan/28/ford-announces-profits-2009 Andrew Clark in New York guardian.co.uk, Thursday 28 January 2010 17.01 GMThttp://www.smmt.co.uk/articles/article.cfm?articleid=20676 http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/industry_sectors/industrials/article7032980.ece http://www.ford.co.uk/AboutFord/News/CompanyNews/NewDirector ttp://www.oup.com/uk/orc/bin/9780199296378/01student/additional/page_11. htmhttp://www.oup.c.om/uk/orc/bin/9780199296378/01student/additional/page_10.htm http://www.oup.com/uk/orc/bin/9780199296378/01student/additional/page_12.htm http://www.smmt.co.uk/articles/article.cfm?articleid=20676 http://www.smmt.co.uk/articles/article.cfm?articleid=20676 http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/4972091/Toyota-cuts-production-and-pay-as-motor-industry-crisis-deepens.htmlhttp://www.investopedia.com/articles/economics/08/understanding-microeconomics.asp http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/industry_sectors/industrials/article7032980.ece http://www.smmt.co.uk/industryissues/index.cfm?catid=3725sid=259iicatid=P_1002 http://www.smmt.co.uk/industryissues/index.cfm?catid=3725sid=259iicatid=P_973 http://www.smmt.co.uk/industryissues/index.cfm?catid=3725sid=259iicatid=P_4093 http://www.smmt.co.uk/industryissues/index.cfm?catid=3725sid=259iicatid=P_982 http://www.smmt.co.uk/hottopics/index.cfm?catid=3725sid=259 http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/industry_sectors/industrials/article7006329.ece http://www.comparecontracthire.com/blog/index.php/2010/05/scrappage-registrations-totalled-395000-units-says-smmt/

Supervolcano :: essays research papers

Supervolcano 1. â€Å"Docudramas† like Supervolcano are valuable in the sense that they provide certain elements to the viewer that cannot be found in dramas or documentaries. For the drama enthusiast, it sparks an interest by presenting characters and a climactic plot to speed the informational aspect of the movie along. For the documentary enthusiast, it includes a plot â€Å"based† on factual information, and provides something to be learned. Supervolcano was a true â€Å"docudrama,† and appealed to a wider variety of people. Although it’s plot was fictitious, the information about Yellowstone’s volcanic potential, however far-fetched, was intriguing and urged the viewer to wonder about the future of Yellowstone. 2. The ratio of drama to documentary in Supervolcano was probably 80:20. Although there was factual evidence presented in the film, it seems as though it was manipulated to fit the plotline, and did not actually coincide with any scientific theory. It could easily be construed that the normal fluctuations at Yellowstone are indicators of looming volcanic activity, but those fluctuations have also happened throughout history without consequences. The film, however, noted this fact and stated through the characters that the prediction of a volcanic event is never concrete or dependable. I feel the producers of this film created a successful docudrama in that they were able to present scientific information in a dramatic sense; making the film more widely acceptable. 3. The information given to the viewer on the evidence of the coming volcanic activity seemed to be pretty accurately based on the knowledge of volcanoes presented in this course. The evidence included an increase in seismic activity/ earthquakes; caldera swelling and irregular growth; bulges above the caldera; vegetation death; and the release of toxic gases such as sulfur dioxide. These symptoms have been present on and around volcanoes that have erupted in the past, and are considered indicative of volcanic activity. -  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Hazards: inhaling volcanic rock dust/ash (essentially makes cement in the lungs); volcanic rock dust/ash accumulating on architecture (becomes twice as dense when mixed with rain); pyroclastic flow; volcanic gases and dust getting into the atmosphere; 4. Consider the specific scenes where seismic activity occurs, and when the scientists discuss the size and location of those earthquakes. Are those scenes realistic? Why/why not? -  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  It seems realistic enough. For example, the readings of the seismograph. However, the stuff with the hologram projection computer program seemed like something from Star Wars.

Engineering and National Defense :: essays papers

Engineering and National Defense Francis Dietz, a Government Relations worker for the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) in Washington, D.C., is calling upon engineers to help our policy makers in making decisions concerning defense research and design. In testimony to Congress given by the Department of Defense Task Force of ASME's Inter-Council Committee on Federal R & D, "†¦an increasing number of peacekeeping deployments to various parts of the globe, combined with relatively stagnant budgets, have combined to put a severe strain on the ability of the Department of Defense to appropriately plan for its future technology needs†¦" (Dietz 34). To further explain this claim of consequence, The group goes on to say, "†¦the basic research of today largely determines the technological advancements of a decade or more from now." (Dietz 34). This article states the importance of funding for national defense. It hopes to inform the reader about how the budget cuts in basic research have left the country vulnerable. In order to defend against the three major national security threats of nuclear proliferation, weapons of mass destruction, and breeches of information technology infrastructure, Congress will need to supply appropriate funds in science and technology (Dietz 34). In writing this article, the author hopes to gather enough support to lobby for more funds. The argument contains all three parts of the logic triangle. Logos is used when he states that a decrease in funding for R & D has made it harder to attract and retain talented engineers. Dietz also uses logos when he quotes Harry Armen saying, "If you don't design and build new systems, then someday when you need something new, there'll be nobody there who knows how to do it." (34). Ethos is found in the people and committees he gathers much of the information in the article. He uses groups like by the Department of Defense Task Force of ASME's Inter-Council Committee on Federal R & D and people like Rep. Julian Dixon as authorities to substantiate his claim. Pathos is used in the form of fear when the consequences of poor funding are realized. The article implies the US is leaving itself open to conventional, nuclear, and cyber attacks. The article was exactly right in my opinion.

Addition as Choice Essay

Substance abuse is a pervasive problem throughout the United States. It affects all populations, socioeconomic groups, ages, and races. Within the community of substance abuse treatment providers, there is an ongoing debate on whether addiction is a disease, or whether individuals who abuse substances choose to engage in the behavior. There is evidence to support both positions. This paper will examine the controversy surrounding the issue of whether addiction is a choice, and examine the arguments presented by both sides. Addiction is a Choice Many individuals view substance abuse and drug addiction as a choice. These individuals argue that addicts choose to put the addictive substance in their body, therefore triggering the subsequent chemical reaction that occurs (Schaler, 2000) Individuals who argue that addiction is a choice, do not dispute that there is a physiological reaction when the drug or alcohol enters the body, and that long-term use alters the addicts brain chemistry. What they take issue with is the disease concept of addiction. Proponents of the choice theory argue that by labeling addiction as a disease, personal responsibility is removed from the equation, thereby allowing the addict to justify continued use as they are â€Å"unable† to stop (Schaler, 2000). See more:  Social Satire in The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn Essay Experience with addiction treatment confirms the choice theory, according to proponents of this stance. The most frequently recommended and popular method of recovery from addiction is Alcoholics Anonymous and its various offshoots (Narcotics Anonymous, Cocaine Anonymous, etc.). Alcoholics Anonymous is a program that offers support to the addict and postulates that the individual must undergo a psychic and spiritual change in order to maintain abstinence and achieve physical and emotional sobriety. The 12-steps utilized by Alcoholics Anonymous primarily revolve around an individual becoming honest about their substance use, realizing the damage their use has caused to themselves and others, making amends for the damage, and developing skills to assist them in staying sober and maintaining a healthy life. Critics of the disease model argue that AA and its offshoots talk about an ethical and spiritual solution, not a medical one (Schaler, 2000). Primary treatment approaches utilized in substance abuse treatment centers revolve around a psychotherapeutic foundation, rather than a medical one. Skill building, cognitive behavioural treatment, psych educational groups, and process groups comprise the majority of treatment in drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers. These are combined with a healthy diet, treatment of any mental health issues, and plenty of exercise. Again, no evidence of treatment of any physical disease (Schaler, 2000). Perhaps individuals who are alcoholics are allergic to alcohol. They still possess choice in whether or not to take the drink, just as individuals who break out in a rash when they eat strawberries, can choose whether or not to eat a strawberry, knowing the potential consequences. Addiction as a Disease Individuals who subscribe to the addiction as disease model argue that there is a psychological as well as a physical component to addiction. Initially, the argument is made that humans are conditioned to do things that cause them pleasure. Humans will repeatedly engage in an activity that elicits a positive reward. Humans also repeatedly engage in behaviors that allow them to avoid or escape negative consequences or results. Addictive drugs have the ability to reinforce strong behavioral responses and compel conditioned memories (Young, 1999). Addictive drugs produce different effects on body systems and each has a different immediate or long-term health consequence. But what truly separates addictive drugs from other classes of drugs is their ability to alter brain chemistry involved in the processes of reinforcement, learning and memory. Addictive drugs hijack our system’s natural response to rewards (Young, 1999). Repeated drug use can significantly alter brain chemistry. Three different types of change are important for addictive drug use. Repeated use of the drug can increase tolerance, so that increasingly higher doses of the drug are required to produce the same effect. With some drugs, tolerance occurs because the drug begins to break down more efficiently, requiring more of the drug to experience the high, while in other cases, tolerance appears to occur at the level of the neurons. Another physiological change important to the development of addiction is that repeated use of some drugs can produce physical dependence, wherein the nerves in the brain and body only function normally in the presence of the drug. Failure to use the drug can result in physical withdrawal symptoms. A third way that brain chemistry is altered is in the reward pathways themselves. Repeated use of some drugs, such as methamphetamine, may cause the brain to decrease its production of dopamine and other pleasure i nducing chemicals. This can result in intense cravings when the drug is withdrawn, as the individual is unable to experience pleasure any other way (Young, 1999). One complicating variable with regard to the disease concept of addiction is that for many individuals, exposure to drugs and alcohol does not cause addiction. They are able to use opioids as prescribed and drink alcohol socially. Some individuals seem to be able to use drugs and alcohol recreationally, while others become addicted. Explanations vary. First, individuals vary in their biology, and there may be a genetic component to addiction. Second, the set of expectations associated with drug use may influence how easily one becomes addicted. Third, individuals may differ in learned vulnerability. For instance, an alcoholic, who never took pills of any kind, ceases alcohol use. After a substantial amount of time of sobriety, the alcoholic is prescribed pain medication as the result of the surgery. The alcoholic then becomes addicted to pain medication (Young, 1999). Statement of position After substantial research I am taking the position that addiction is a disease. It was initially concluded that people naturally seek out pleasurable experiences. Why else would individuals who are functional, sound decision-makers in every area of their life, be unable to control or manage their intake of alcohol or drugs, even in the face of tremendous and unpleasant consequences? Jail, loss of children, loss of jobs and homes, homelessness, engagement in criminal activities; it is hard to perceive anyone choosing to continue substance use in the face of these consequences. The chronic alcoholic or drug addict will continue use of the substance, regardless of consequences, to the point of death. This can only be the result of biochemical changes in the brain as the result of substance use, perhaps combined with a genetic predisposition to addiction. Chronic alcoholics and drug addicts should be treated with the same care that one treats a diabetic or someone with hypertension. Treatments involve behavioral changes, as well as medications, dietary changes, and exercise (McLellan, 2002). But like many with chronic disease, patients do not always cooperate with treatment. This is recognized in the medical community with regard to diabetes and hypertension, however when the alcoholic or drug addict behaves as others who have a chronic disease would, it is considered a moral issue. The argument concerning Alcoholics Anonymous and treatment centers does not hold water with regard to those with a chronic condition. Individuals enter treatment or AA programs with varying degrees of addiction. An individual may enter AA after receiving his first DUI, and decide that he has a problem and needs help to stay sober. He arrests the disease before it progresses. This is similar to the diabetic, who prior to be diagnosed with Type II diabetes, is warned by her physician that she is pre-diabetic. She proceeds to make lifestyle changes that arrest her disease, and she never becomes a full-blown diabetic. The AA program will help the addict change their lifestyle making it easier for some addicts to resist behaviors that encourage use, and eventually addiction. Multicultural Considerations Addiction is viewed differently in a variety of cultures. Within the United States, the African-American community experiences high rates of alcoholism and drug addiction. This is typically viewed as the result of genetics, combined with socioeconomic factors such as poverty, unemployment, and high educational dropout rates. The Native American community experiences rates of alcoholism much higher than any other North American culture. Hispanic culture, particularly Mexicans and Puerto Ricans show higher rates of substance use; however individuals from Cuba and Central American countries show a reduced rate of substance use (SAMHSA Office of Applied Studies, 1998). Cultural considerations need to be taken into account when providing treatment services to addicts, as different cultures view addiction differently. Some cultures, like Native American and African-American, tend to view addiction as a disease; while other cultures, like Asian or Hispanic, may view substance abuse as a mor al issue or an issue of choice. How the addict sees the disease can help determine a route of treatment. Critical Literacy The two primary positions presented in this paper regarding addiction, both attempt to determine causes of addiction. They utilize scientific methods, literature reviews, and deductive reasoning to come to their conclusions. There is a strong psychological component to addiction, combined with biochemical changes. Both views attempt to shape the existing science and research to support their positions; one from a medical framework and the other psychological/sociological framework. Civic Literacy Costs related to substance use and abuse is astronomical in the United States. The US criminalization of drugs accounts for millions of dollars spent annually on police forces, trial lawyers, judges and correctional facilities. Other financial factors to be considered are the rise in crime rates in areas where substance use is prevalent, the increase in theft and property damage; the cost in failed marriages and children neglected and abused; the cost to emergency rooms which are required to treat individuals who present in crisis, regardless of their ability to pay. Socially, substance use destroys families and undermines the values that the US was founded on.Citizens can help by educating themselves about addiction and understanding that it is a disease. The majority of addicts need treatment, jobs, housing and a variety of other services to assist them in staying clean and sober. Citizens can vote for legislation that provides funding for treatment centers and necessary social ser vices, rather than increasing the number of jails and correctional facilities. Science Literacy The medical aspects of addiction require that science be actively involved in contributing to a solution. Scientists study brain chemistry and are now able to take pictures of individual’s brains that demonstrate the dramatic changes that occur when substances are introduced to an individual’s body. Medications are being tested that may reduce the cravings that addicts experience when they withdrawal from drugs. The field of psychology contributes to the reduction of addiction by providing addicts with cognitive-behavioral restructuring with regard to substance use, and assisting with any co-occurring mental health disorders. Values Literacy Many people consider addiction a moral issue. They believe that if an individual just had enough willpower, they could choose to not use a substance they are addicted to. Many in North America believe this, and there are articles and books written regarding the topic of addiction as a choice. However, the science is clear, once a person is addicted, a variety of treatments are necessary to assist them in addressing the biochemical changes that have occurred in their body. Most of these treatments are not medical; they are psychological and involve restructuring an individual’s thought process as well as teaching them skills to cope with their addiction. Individuals with addiction should be treated as if they are a sufferer of a chronic disease, with the same level of care and compassion one would treat someone with diabetes or hypertension. Conclusion In conclusion, there exists within the United States, two views regarding addiction. Some believe that addiction is a choice and that individuals who are addicts can choose whether to use or not. Others believe in the disease model of addiction. While strong arguments are made on both sides, the science is clear with regard to the disease model, although it is likely that the truth lies somewhere in the middle.

Comparison of Themes: Exercise of Free Will Essay

The stories of Odyssey and Alchemist were brought into existence in two different periods of time and place; however, there are significant similarities that could be seen from the stories, in which one of these is the expression of the free will of the two main characters. In the story, both Odysseus and Alchemist were placed in a difficult situation that compelled them to act based on their philosophical view that guided them through the course of their journey. Free will produces determination. The best expression of free will is being unwavering in his decision. In the stories, Odysseus and Santiago went into a journey for the dream they most desired to achieve. At first, Odysseus had to be deceptive not to reveal his true identity in order to restore his kingdom and family; while Santiago had to experience being swindled during his journey to get his treasure. Free will is a manifestation of beliefs. The strategies made by the two characters are contradicting in views yet revealing their true conviction. As a warrior himself, Odysseus knew a lot of tactics to oust his enemy; thus, by hiding his identity, he was able to overthrow the suitors in the palace. While Santiago passively accepted his ordeal for he knows in that way, he could get what he desired most. Free will molds characters. The best decision is in most cases undergoes difficult process that molds character. Odysseus and Santiago had learned patience and courage, which brought them success in their endeavor. Indeed, the most desirable means to get something in life is exercising free will that manifests true self and conviction. However, the result may be desirable or undesirable but all depends on one’s philosophy in life. Decision making therefore requires careful planning founded on one’s belief and value system. Reference The Alchemist Summary/Plot Review. LitSum. http://litsum. com/alchemist/ The Odyssey: Themes, Motifs and Symbol. SparkNotes. http://www. sparknotes. com/lit/odyssey/themes. html