How green are electric car batteries Research Paper

How green are electric car batteries - Research Paper Example However, this trend is yet to be noticed as most of the vehicles in this 21st century are still powered by traditional fuels; electric cars are yet to become popular among the masses. The Electric Battery An electric car along with all its accessories is powered by its battery. The electric battery drives a controller which is used to run the main electric motor of the car. Cars driven by gasoline and diesel also have batteries, but they are mainly used to start the engine of the vehicle and also power some of its accessories like the radio, television or the air-conditioner. Just like fuel-driven cars need to be reloaded, once they are exhausted of their fuel reserves, the electric car batteries are required to be recharged when they are depleted of their initial power. Therefore, electric batteries need to be strong and enduring in terms of their power and longevity. Till recently, battery manufacturers were yet to invent dependable electric batteries that could bring electric vehicles at par with the fuel-driven cars. However, the production of electric cars have become more affordable in recent times and the main automobile manufacturers are expected to produce such electric cars on a large scale (Lampton, 2011). First Automobile powered by a Battery In 1873, R. Davidson of Edinburgh showed that a road vehicle could be driven by an electric battery. He experimented by driving a four-wheeler truck powered by a primary battery made of iron/zinc. After this, in 1881, G. Trouve of France constructed a tricyle, weighing 160 kilograms (350 pounds), which became the first vehicle to be driven with the help of a â€Å"secondary Plante battery†. Trouve utilized two customized Siemens motors to drive a huge propelling wheel with the help of two chains which in turn drove the tricycle. The Plante battery helped the motors to develop the strength of 1/10 horsepower which enabled the tricycle to move at a speed of 12 kilometres per hour (7 miles per hour). Later, Trouve demonstrated that electric batteries could be used to drive other forms of vehicles too. During the same year, he experimented by operating a motor boat on the river Sienne which was powered by electric batteries. In the following year (1882), Professors William Ayrton and John Perry of England, also demonstrated the utility of electric batteries in driving transport vehicles. They had also developed a tricycle powered by an electric battery which had a capacity of 1 ? kilowatt hour. This battery consisted of ten Plante type battery cells made up of lead/acid. Apart from this, the tricycle had a direct current (DC) motor having the strength of ? horsepower, which was fitted under the driver’s seat. The electric battery supplied a current of 20 volts to the DC motor which in turn propelled the vehicle. The tricycle could travel at a speed between 16 and 40 kilometers per hour (between 10 and 25 miles an hour), the speed varying according to the type of land terrain traversed. This speed could be regulated by switching the batteries sequentially in series (Westbrook, 2001, pp.9-10). How Electric Car Batteries are Made In the present-day world, the two most popular forms of electric car batteries are the â€Å"advanced nickel metal hybride ba ttery (NiMH)† and the â€Å"advanced automotive lithium ion (Li-ion) battery†. Majority of these two types of batteries are produced by firms in China,

Money as a Motivator Essay Example for Free

Money as a Motivator Essay This paper will discuss the subject of money as a motivator. In addition to research and a cohesive review of literature it will include two interviews with prominent managers which will be analyzed to further enrich the knowledge of the subject by taking advantage of their hands-on experience. I- Introduction: Money, A motivator?Money! That is the violent war between employers and employees. Indeed, motivating employees through the use of money as a material reward or motivator for work achievement is and has always been a matter of controversy. Many theorists tackling motivation theories, human nature in general and motivation in particular, have accordingly examined this issue and yet they did not give the same answer as whether money can motivate workers for work or not. This shall form the main core of this projectBut before tackling this sensitive issue, let us see what does Motivation in general entails? Motivation suggests the strong desire to do ones job well with an initiation to receive a complement either of moral or material satisfaction. Employers have employed material incentives in the form of extra hours with extra pay, some others give too much importance to the stability of the workers with satisfying their necessaries of life; whereas others have much stressed human relations, good contacts with prospective outcomes, promotion, and occupation with high responsibilities potential. There is no shortage of theories about motivation, and the relation between money and motivation in particular was central to most of them since money has always been held as the bread and butter of each worker and the carrot or the stick with which the employers control the goal achievement processes. Next we briefly review some of the most important motivation theories and there approach on money. II- Review of literature and previous studies:(A) Theories of Human motivation and their relation to money:* The Hierarchy of NeedsThis theory is probably the best-known motivation theory. It was coined by Abraham Maslow during the 1940s and 1950s. In essence, it states that our motivations are dictated primarily by the circumstances we find ourselves in, and that certain lower needs need to be satisfied before we are  motivated towards higher accomplishments. Maslow indicated five distinct stages, starting at physiological needs and ending at self-actualization needs. In practice, the first stage in the hierarchy, the physiological stage, which contains the needs the employee first tries to satisfy such as food, shelter†¦ indicates that pay is a good motivator within this stage. Money is the supplier of food, medicine, shelter, clothing†¦ but as soon as thee basic needs become satisfied and the employee moves to higher stages within the hierarchy, pay becomes less and le ss a motivator. Money cant buy safety, a sense of belonging, self esteem or self actualization. * Theory X and Theory YIn 1960, Douglas McGregor advanced the idea that managers had a major part in motivating staff. He essentially divided managers into two categories Theory X managers who believe that their staff are lazy and will do as little as they can get away with; and Theory Y managers who believe that their people really want to do their best in their work. Theory X managers believe that staff will do things if they are given explicit instructions with no wiggle room, and plenty of stick if they dont do what they are supposed to do. Theory Y managers believe their people work their best when empowered to make appropriate decisions. Managers who follow theory Xs approach, tend to rely greatly on money as both a motivator and a tool of control. Theory Y managers tend to focus also on non-monetary motivators and rely less and less on money in motivating their staff. With advances in management theories, Theory Y has begun to replace Theory X as the dominant management philo sophy in many organizations and money began to seem as a less effective tool for motivation as we will later see. * Dual Factor TheoryAnother theory to gain prominence at this time was Frederick Hertzbergs Dual Factor theory. He identified two separate groups of factors that had a strong bearing on motivation. He called the first group hygiene factors, because they strongly influenced feelings of dissatisfaction amongst employees. Hygiene factors include working conditions, pay, and job security. According to Hertzberg, they dont motivate employees as such, but if they are not there, they can adversely affect job performance. He referred to the other group as motivation factors because they had a role in positively influencing performance   such as achievement, career progression and learning. Hertzberg went on to state that you can forget about workforce motivation if you dont get the hygiene factors right first of all, so you have to get the pay part of the equation right. But he saw pay as not being an actual motivator in the work place. You can create disgruntle employees with less money, but you cant create a motivated employee with more cash. * Equity TheoryJohn Stacy Adams posited another theory in 1965, looking at how motivation was affected by the degree of fairness within an organization, particularly within a group of peers. Consider the situation where nine sales representatives are given a company Mercedes, but one of them is given a Toyota, even though that person believes he did just as good a job as his colleagues. How would that last sales representative feel? Now theres nothing wrong with a Toyota, but by comparing ones own circumstances to the treatment of others in a similar situation, very intense feelings can be experienced. These feelings could lead to intense positive or negative motivations. Its here that money can become a serious de-motivator or even a source of conflict if distribution was not seen as fair. No matter how insignificant the monetary value, a lower raise will be seen as an unfair evaluation of ones self-conceived performance relative to others and the intended motivating effect will be transformed into a strong feeling of inferiority and injustice. In practice, managers need to be careful in distributing money incentives within a group of peers because of the emotions this can engender. *Expectancy TheoryVictor Vroom in 1964 put forward the notion that people are driven by the likelihood of genuine success in achieving particular objectives. Three barriers need to be jumped by managers if they want to motivate their people to succeed. First of all, they need to connect the task to be performed to the likelihood of better results. Secondly they need to set expectations that there are positive benefits to the employee in achieving those results, and thirdly they need to ensure that these benefits are of value to the employee. For instance, there is no point asking your employees to be happy about coming in a half-hour early in future if you cant properly explain how this will lead to eventual real benefits for the  employees themselves. Benefits also should be properly assessed, some employees rank money low on their priority lists, and others give it precedence over other benefits. Setting expectations for benefits that are not valued by employees will not work, ma nagers should not take for granted that money is all that matters and probe for other benefits the employees may consider superior. * Money as a MotivatorThis theory states that all workers are motivated primarily by the need for money; so if you want to get the most out of your workforce, you pay them more. This has particular effectiveness in areas where payment is directly linked to the accomplishment of objectives. This theory is prevalent in many businesses in the form of performance-related pay, incentives, bonuses and promotion schemes. While few would argue that it does not have some validity (indeed it is the driver behind most sales forces the world over), it is not an all-encompassing theory. It doesnt really address the sometimes complex reasons why people are motivated by money. It excludes people who are not driven primarily for money. It does not, for example, apply to voluntary organizations. In addition, it may not work if meeting the financial objectives might threaten other entitlements, creature-comforts or rights, such as an employees location, network of friends, employment conditions or cur rent level of job satisfaction. Several other related theories such as the ERG and AAP theories also tried to find out what motivates employees the most, and where does pay rank among motivators. The motivational power of money is clear in the sense that more dollars buy more things (but not all things as we discussed before), but why is money sometimes seen as a low quality motivator?(B) Money, an Over Estimated MotivatorIn our research and readings we were able to identify several problems with using money as a motivator in the work place. These points are summarized below and should be taken into consideration by the manager in his efforts to promote effectiveness and efficiency. (1) Cash becoming compensation: The great thing about choosing a monetary reward is that theres no extra distribution method necessary. Employees view cash incentives and awards as part of their annual compensation,  Because those dollars just become part of what you take home, theres nothing special about them. The money tends to get spent paying bills, and you dont really do anything thats memorable, so theres no lasting effect relative to the dollars that youre putting into those incentive schemes. It just becomes a part of that pile of money that you find a way to spend every month and every year. (2) A Tough Incentive to Take Away: Beyond cashs poor ability to change behaviors, it actually can be harmful. In good economic times, when everyone is flush and goals are being reached, cash can be easy to give out, but when times are bad, and the cash goes away, employees will wonder where their money went. And studies show that they will consider it their money. Discontinuing a noncash incentive program has a considerably less negative impact on employee motivation than killing a cash program. (3) Buyers Remorse Affects Money Incentives: A family man receiving a cash award from his company is faced with a tough decision: Put the money in savings or a college fund, or use it to pay bills, or splurge on a family vacation or buy them something special. If he decides to splurge, he may regret the decision later on when a particularly large bill comes due. That quandary can have a negative effect on the overall quality of the award, an opportunity will be considered as wasted if the money is spent or saved. Many non-cash incentive awards are considered luxuries, and earning them through hard work can give employees a sense of achievement. (4) Low Trophy Value: Cash lacks trophy value and social reinforcement attributes that increase the perceived value of the non-cash award over cash, the trophy value associated with noncash incentives is just immense. An employee will always find it more pleasant to talk about a company all-expenses- paid trip, movie tickets or even a warm pad on the back from the boss, than a two hundred dollars bonus check. (5) Money Is Not Promotable: The trophy value associated with non-cash awards can have a positive effect on other employees who didnt reach their goals and take home the award. Its harder for the boss to say do better and you  will get a certain cash reward, than to advertise a position for the employee of the month award for example. Money is less promotable than other forms of motivation. (6) Cash Satisfies Needs-Not Wants: Cash is easy for companies to give away, and everybody needs it. But for true motivation, you need to give people something they want or desire, not something they need. A trip to Hawaii, on the other hand, generates memories, and a plasma-screen TV is something theyll look at every day for years to come-and remember how they got it, a hundred dollar bill gained for an extra ordinary selling week is soon not different from a hundred dollar bill received as wage. (7) Money Is Impersonal: Sure, everyone could use more money, but whats special about that? The best rewards cater to a particular groups interests, and having that personal edge makes a big difference in how effective your program will be. (8) One Size Doesnt Fit All: There are no average employees, average has become wider and wider around the means over the past few years, and will continue to do so. So one really cant provide one option and think that its going to be appealing or motivating to the entire staff. (9) Managers Prefer Noncash: A recent study of 235 managers by the Forum for People Performance Management and Measurement showed that managers prefer non-cash employee recognition programs. According to the study, managers view non-cash awards as more important, more effective and generally superior for achieving the majority of specific organizational objectives. (10) No Global Parity: In economic terms, its called purchasing power parity, which means, roughly, that the cost of living-everything from the price of a nice dinner for two to a months rent-can be vastly different in different parts of the world. Companies with worldwide footprints need to make sure their award offerings are equal on a global scale. A dollar, after all, goes a lot farther in some corners of the world than in others. Non-cash awards such as gift cards allow companies to offer parity in terms  of the overall worth of the award. (11) Money Is Insufficient for Some Employees: in addition for the individual idiosyncrasies of individual employees, money may not be sufficient for some people. Highly paid employees for example may prefer other benefits such as an award ceremony, a club membership, a parking space closer to the office†¦(12) Evaluation of Performance: its hard to put a price tag on performance. Even clear rules, such as: sell x items and y dollars, may be seen as unfair. Employees may complain about their store location, their shifts, and their managers†¦ to give an unfair flavor to a peers bonus. Non-cash motivators are less likely to be thoroughly criticized and have a greater motivational value. (13) A Trouble Maker: money may set employees against each other, leading to conflict in the company. Employees may also feel forced to compete and thus Money becomes a fosterer of a hostile work environment rather than a motivational tool. (C) Research Study results:Several research studies were done on the effects of money as a motivator, and its position relative to other motivational incentives. The results of a NOVA Group study under the title Factors employees Find Motivating re affirmed several previous studies in which employees ranked money as fifth among motivation factors. Money was proceeded by: Interesting Work, Appreciation and Recognition, Feeling of being in on things, and Job Security. A more recent study on done by the Hay Group on retention factors found that money ranked a staggering tenth among employee retention factors. A research study for 57 managers conducted by Meudell Rodham showed through analysis of questionnaires that managers saw an increase in performance among their employees for an average of just two weeks after a pay raise followed by a relapse into the prior performance levels. Several other research papers we saw which conduct research on the effects of money as a motivator on employees of various professions showed similar results. Although the position of cash as motivator varied slightly among different working groups, it still showed that money has limited motivational power. For example In a much publicized study, Gupta and her colleagues analyzed thirty-nine studies conducted over four decades and found that cold-hard cash motivates workers as expected, but the research team acknowledges that money is not the only thing that concerns employees, noting that beyond a certain point higher salaries will make employees happier, but it will not buy better performance. III- Interviews, Analysis and Findings(A) The interviewsIn the process of researching the motivational power of money, we were lucky to interview two prominent managers:†¢Mr. Sami Gheriafi , Process and Institutional Planning Manager -AUB†¢Dr. Saad Andary , Deputy General Manager -BBAC BankAs a basis for the interviews, we prepared a questionnaire to address all the questions that were raised during our review of literature. Through out the interviews many more clarifying questions were asked, the end result was put into a QA format, and both interviews are posted in the annex at the end of the paper. (B) Interviews analysisIt was striking how the answers of two managers from two different organizations overlapped in key issues. Of course one will find differences in some approaches, but the overlap in addition to the findings we uncovered in our literature review gave us confidence in our results. Both managers gave non-monetary forms of motivation priority over money. Whether sending over-performers out of the country for advanced training to show the organizations commitment in improving their career opportunity, or verbal and written appreciation, non-monetary motivators were found to be superior. Empowerment, delegation of authority and freedom of decision are also very important tools used in the organizations to motivate employees. On the other hand, and in compliance with our research, both managers agreed that money is important especially in a region under economic stress, but  they also argued against using it primarily. Dr. Saad Andary noted that money according to his experience may play a good role as a retention factor, noting the huge pay gap between Lebanon and the Gulf, but he doesnt consider it as motivating. Both Mr. Sami Gheriafi and Dr. Saad Andary also indicated that money has a timed impact that is they as managers notice an increase in performance whe n a monetary reward is handed out, but this increase tend to dwindle down as the raise is spent. Non-monetary motivators tend to have a longer lasting effect on performance. On the use of money, Dr. Saad Andary pointed out that in current economic conditions, money is the managements easy way out, and even though both managers disagreed on managements ability to put a financial tag on performance, both agreed that it is not productivity that should be an issue, but also commitment to work, enthusiasm and the feeling of belonging to the company that should matter to managers. Money has a tempting impact on new comers; it refreshes the employees and energizes their performance; is an expected part of the motivational basket and if used properly and in an accurate sense will boost performance in times when a push is needed. But the use of money has its negative side as well. Money has shorter lasting effect on employees, it is less effective with employees higher up in the organizational hierarchy, money is also coupled with the firms profitability rather the employees performance in a sense that a hard working employee may not get a raise because the firm is not profitable that year, a thing which will discourage the employee especially if in more profitable years less effort lead to more money. Money also will put a huge financial burden on the company especially when employees begin to see bonuses and raises as part of their pay, they will grow more dependent on monetary rewards and this will produce a high employee turnover rate and a decrease in performance. Money, and depending on the management approach, might easily become a tool for manipulation rather than motivation. For these reasons Dr. Saad Andary forecasts that management will try to limit the negativities of money as a motivator by making reward more institutionalized, in a sense that staff will become shareholders and be granted stocks rather than raises. This will give rise to a partnership between the staff and the firm, the employees will no longer feel as pones moved by management, but rather  they will develop a genuine sense of belonging, and a true interest in the well being of the organization. IV- Conclusion: Money as a MotivatorAll the popular motivation theories have their flaws and detractors, but they do give us an insight into some of the mechanisms at work in day-to-day organizational life. A number of key messages ring true: firstly, people are not automatons and their reasons for behaving in a certain way are more complex than just money or laziness. Secondly, different people are motivated differently there is no such thing as a simple, all-encompassing solution. Thirdly, its important to get the work environment right if you want to get the most from people; and finally, managing perceptions and expectations is very important if you want to help people get the most from their work. As a summary, Money is found not to be a default and automatic motivator, its importance is subjective and its effectiveness in motivating is relative to the type of job and the way management uses it, non-monetary motivational approaches are superior in many ways (as explained above) . So if we want to finish up with one message we think that the best conclusion might be Avoid the Cash Trap. V-Annex(A) Dr. Saad Andary interview1)What are the motivation techniques followed in your Institution?What is the role of money in the above techniques?†¢One major form of motivation is to send staff out for training ( specially out of the country : New York, London); this is major motivating because it enhances the employee career and gives exposure to more advanced markets ( only the outstanding people are selected) . The other form of motivation is to promote and to empower the staff (to give him the freedom of decision). Money incentives: an environment which is under economic stress with high unemployment and depressed salaries and wages and also coupled with price inflation required to have constant individual raises , although this does not compensate to the huge job pricing differential between Lebanon and the Gulf); so money plays the role of retaining employees here and not motivating. 2)Do you think Money is the easy way out?†¢In our environment, yes it is, until we have sufficient economic growth to benefit from the oil boom. 3)How can you put a price tag on performance?†¢The appraisals to be reflected in the annual raises. BBAC is an institution working in the financial market where jobs can be easily assessed and priced (especially jobs related to sales, dealing, treasury, marketing†¦) where the management can pinpoint revenues or loss leading to the evaluation of the employee performance. 4)Do you notice an increase in performance after a money raise (bonus, financial reward)? And how long does it last?†¢It gives an immediate improvement in performance and lasts until the raise fade according to its amount (depend on the value of the reward). The bad thing about this is that: if its regular bonus or reward then its no longer conceived as merit where it becomes more as a salary = thats why a money raise cant be that effective motivator to count on. 5)From your experience, how did the concept Money as a Motivator develop through the past years? And where do you see it going?†¢In the banking industry : money became a norm ( bonus at end of the year for example) which is reflected by the profit of the form , so staff is identified with the concept of the profitability = there is functional relationship between money as motivator and profitability . See it going : towards becoming more institutionalized , in the sense that staff will become share holders (partners) ; employees will not be granted money but stocks which is a way of partnership that involves the staff in ownership = develops sense of belonging and last relation of employees with the firm. 6)What are the positive/negative aspects in using money as motivator (conflicts and competition between employees)?†¢ Positive: refresh the employees and energize their performance (although for just a period of time). Negative: money is coupled with the firm profitability and not directly related to the employee performance and results; the criteria set  for the rewards are not usually clear and standardized; decreases the sense of belonging towards the firm. 7)Doesnt money trivialize work and weaken sense of belonging?†¢Yes, money trivialize work and stock option can be the right alternative for improving sense of belonging8)Money: Motivation or Manipulation?†¢Money is recognition of the surplus created by the staff; cant be considered fully motivation or manipulation. 9)What is your conclusion (experience personal opinion) about Money as a Motivator†¢Money cant be used as a direct and effective motivator due to several constraints mentioned above. (B) Mr. Sami Gheriafi interview1)What are the motivation techniques followed in your Institution?†¢It is at the discretion of the managers of each department to use various techniques to motivate employees. Among many, there is empowerment, delegation of authority, added responsibility commensurate with seniority and financial incentives, promotions, commitment to employee professional development (mostly through training and development of talent, skills and competencies), and appreciation either verbally or in writing (aka psychological support) or, as specific to AUB, attainment of Presidents Service Excellence Award, an annual award given to employees with exceptional and superior customer service and notable productivity over the prior 3 years. My personal experience has led me to the following equation Productivity = Satisfaction x Appreciation. What is the role of money in the above techniques?†¢Money is a major motivator, however, in my opinion it has a times impact! By virtue of human nature, people tend to feel motivated with money, but after a short period of time, usually not more than 3 6 months, people tend to forget about the financial increase. The money reward will certainly help improving the employees performance in the short term, but its impact will fade out as time passes. 2)Do you think Money is the easy way out?†¢The use of easy way out is a bit  on the negative side, as when you refer to a situation where people circumvent a process or get a way with minimal loss or damage. On the other hand, Money has a strong buy-in and buy-out impact in that it elevates the level of personal satisfaction notwithstanding the longer term fading effect. Money losses its value with time and so does the money based motivation techniques. 3)How can you put a price tag on performance?†¢In financial terms, No! However, performance is measured in productivity of an individual. If the individual is satisfied with the job responsibilities and is being appreciated (both soft and hard), the performance is priced and reflected by commitment to work, enthusiasm, and personal ownership (not physical but psychological). 4)Do you notice an increase in performance after a money raise (bonus, financial reward)? And how long does it last?†¢Performance increase is always noticed after a financial reward. What I would like to point at is that the financial reward should be the consequence not the pre-requisite for an improved or increased performance. In my business life, I have seen many people who work and enjoy what they do with lesser amount of money, but have a great working atmosphere and very appreciative bosses. 5)From your experience, how did the concept Money as a Motivator develop through the past years? And where do you see it going?†¢From what I have seen in the past +15 years, money may have a tempting impact on a new employee or a new comer, but as time passes, and as people grow in hierarchy and mature on the personal level, the more motivating is the work responsibilities, assignments, business setting, atmosphere, stability of the organization, etc. and this is where the motivation is heading. In some cases, money becomes a way to walk out when an offer is made! If the business setup, setting, culture, modus operandi is not appealing, people might not want to burn bridges by refusing an offer, but might as well increase their expectation to a higher level that the employer might and/or will not be able to afford. 6)What are the positive/negative aspects in using money as motivator (conflicts and competition between employees)?†¢ Absolute use of money as a motivator has significant negative impact on the employee and the organization equally. The organizations operating budget will inflate with sky rocketing salary budgets and employees will be heavily dependant on monetary rewards. There will be a high employee turnover, resultant reduced productivity, resultant impact on the organizations turnover, etc. This is a vicious cycle. †¢The basket of motivational techniques, including financial reward, is a healthy approach to the organization and the employee. Both will benefit from what each party will give to the other. Organizations will receive productivity, commitment, ownership, improvement on the part of the employee who in return will also enjoy the basket of appreciation, work atmosphere, investment in his/her professional development, etc. This is what I call a win-win approach. 7)Doesnt money trivialize work and weaken sense of belonging?†¢Yes, sometimes it does. 8)Money: Motivation or Manipulation?†¢Again, the answer depends on the approach. In absolute term of motivation, money will be manipulative. 9)What is your conclusion (experience personal opinion) about Money as a Motivator†¢Money is one of the motivating factors, but certainly not THE motivator. There are more for people to receive from organizations than money. Let us remember that people make money not the other way around. References http://www.forexprofitingpro.com/sites/ldintino/_files/Image/MoneyGlobeOnFinger.JPGClarifying moneys role in motivating- Lynn W. Robbins University of Kentucky- Journal of Food Distribution ResearchGetting more bang for your buck- Martin Price is the director of HR Equations Ltd- employment today NOVEMBER 2005Motivating the work force (chapter ten) McGraw -Hill/IrwinMoney not the motivator The Herald Sun Thursday, 08 December 2005Money can be a big demotivator- John Fisher, Managing director,

Gender Issues in Developing Countries

Gender Issues in Developing Countries Empowerment of Rural Woman in Bangladesh through Agriculture Introduction The gender issue in developing countries again highlighted at the World Conference on Women in Beijing in 1995 (Hicks, 1997). Women’s work in the productive and social sectors is a key aspect of development. Everyone has a unique classification of empowerment based on his or her life experiences, behavior, and ambitions, person has the power to decide about their things, their life, and their actions can be identified as empowerment. Rao and Kelleher stated that â€Å"the capacity of women to be economically self-sufficient and self-reliant with control over decisions affecting their life options and freedom from violence† (Rao and Kelleher, 1995). The disempowerment of women reflects upon their less education level income, control over their own income, bargaining power in selling their own produce and labor. This susceptible condition ended an overall dependency of women on their male relatives through their life cycle particularly in developing countries which lowers their value of life in the society. Bangladesh is a developing country, according to the United Nations Gender-related Development Index (GDI), Bangladesh ranked 105th out of a total of 177 countries worldwide (Grimm, Harttgen et al., 2008). A patriarchal social system dominate the life of women in Bangladesh, controls a women’s mobility, the roles and everyday jobs. In Bangladesh traditionally men dominate women in all spheres of life. The poor women in rural areas having the least power, have few rights, little choice about their lives, and very few chances to modification their condition. Women in Bangladesh in rural area are generally illiterate and often have the least to eat. Though, despite all of the problems, women do play a significant role in agricultural activities in Bangladesh. Agricultural activities includes crop production and processing, post-harvest operations, livestock husbandry, aquaculture and agro-social forestry. Figure – 1 The Ratio of economically active women working in agriculture, 1980-2010    Source: FAO (2003) LIFDCs: low income food deficit countries LDCs: Least Developed Countries The female contribution to the overall economy in developing countries have particularly 43% of the agricultural labor force in developing countries in the agricultural sector like Bangladesh but societal and economic constraints limit their further inclusion in this field. (Food and Organization, 2011). Around 84% of the total population lives in rural areas where agriculture plays vital role in the economy, this sector comprises crops, forests, fisheries and livestock, Women’s involvement to agriculture considered as unpaid family labor, is grossly underestimated. Bangladesh is a traditional Muslim country where women are hardly participate in agricultural activities outside home (Hossain and Bayes, 2009). In Bangladesh the women’s agricultural activities limited to homestead production and post-harvest operations but in recent years they are mostly involved in livestock and poultry rearing activities besides crop production. In Bangladesh women’s contribution to socio-economic development were not noticeable, because of a set of social standards which allowed men to dominate women Women’s contribution in agricultural production is processing and storage of grains and pulses with household based small-scale industry. Men specially worked in public space like the fields, roads and market place on the other hand restrictions prevent women from attending the market. The contribution of women remains socially invisible; control over the proceeds of their labor is transferred to male hands. In the case of rice, which is the main crops in Bangladesh provides a significant example of this process. Main responsible for preparing the fields, sowing the seeds, weeding and harvesting are men also carried the harvest home and help in the threshing. Women then conquest the process the paddy into rice, includes parboiling and drying the paddy, and storing the grain. In Bangladesh women spent an average of 3.1 hours per day on agricultural work while men spent 5.1 hours (Zaman, 1995). In Bangladesh the farm technologies are not adequately developed to handle although participation of women in agriculture increasing (Jaim and Hossain, 2011). Women’s role is changing from unpaid family worker to active worker which is called as â€Å"feminization of agriculture in the absence of male members in the family. Contribution of women in the agricultural sector has increased over time. Women’s work increased from 3.2 million in Survey 1985/86 to 21 million in Survey 1989 (Rahman and Routray, 1998). During 1999–2000 and 2005–06, the number has increased from 3.76 to 7.71 million (Asaduzzaman, 2010). Women more likely to be involved in the agricultural sector who has poor households and risk of being food-insecure, because there’s earnings are important to their families’ survival. Limited use of ownership, and control of productive physical and human capital emphasis on women’s ability to generate income in the agricultural sector. The disadvantage of Bangladeshi women relative to men with respect to assets brought to marriage, and human capital (Quisumbing, 2003). Women in Bangladesh lag behind in terms of education and the lack of education in adult women in Bangladesh live below half a dollar a day make them very poor (Ahmed, Hill et al., 2007) Development in poultry created many employment opportunity in poultry industry and poultry related products. The revolution in poultry industry has achieved more than 200 percent growth last 5 years because of new technology.(Shamsuddoha, 2005) Poultry rearing can be considered as an alternative income generating activity for the development of rural women of Bangladesh. Poultry farming is mostly homestead-based and contributes an important role to the agricultural sector in Bangladesh. Poultry rearing generates extra income for these families which is a part of agro-rearing practices of the village community of Bangladesh. Around 89% of the rural house-holds rear poultry (Fattah, 2000), mainly operated and managed by rural women on a small scale. Furthermore 70% of rural landless women are directly or indirectly involved in poultry rearing activities. Family restrictions, social and traditional barriers keep rural women unable to work outside their home. For these difficult circumstances, homestead poultry rearing is considered the best way to add contribution to the household. It requires least land, small amount of investment and traditional knowledge. Now a day’s one of the main sources of income for the rural women of Bangladesh is home-based poultry. They have the opportunity to spend the earnings for children, special occasions even educating their children. extra income from home-based poultry rearing provides the survival of rural families which empowered by decision making process and gives them freedom to take part in making family decisions. (Hadi, 1997). By increasing the food consumption and nutrient intake poultry projects help rural women (Nielsen, Roos et al., 2003). Now a days the growing awareness in Bangladesh is rural women can play a vital role to the socio-economic growth of the country and provide their families with a higher standard of living (Alam, 1997). In this way poultry rearing can provide significant benefits to rural women in Bangladesh which lead to better empowerment. Bangladesh is the most promising countries for freshwater aquaculture industry which is second only to agriculture in the overall economy for its abundant water resources and sub-tropical climate conditions. Women are involved in various aspects of freshwater aquaculture activities like fish feeding, on-farm feed preparation, pond fertilization, stocking and harvesting. Women’s participation in the fish industry the production has increased by up to 20% (Ahmed and Toufique, 2014). Aquaculture related activities are very important for the empowerment of rural women in Bangladesh. Most rural women have the absence of technical knowledge in aquaculture, heavy household tasks and socio-cultural constraints such as mobility restriction keeps out women’s participation in aquaculture activities. For this contribution in aquaculture by women is under expectation. Economic, nutritional and social benefits are interlinked in order to empower rural women in Bangladesh. Women have generally improved their standard of living, purchasing power and ability as an economic actor which enhance their position in families. Women’s participation in aquaculture improve empowerment which give them greater equity, mobility, more control over resources and political awareness helps to reduce incidents of domestic violence .The expansion of small-scale aquaculture in rural Bangladesh, the women are now breaking through the traditional norms and able to come forward for participate in the development activities outside their homesteads. Several rural women in Bangladesh have successfully adopted and developed with aquaculture production. They feed and harvest fish, also raise fry to yield fingerlings for stocking ponds, they are mainly responsible for the skilled and time consuming tasks that take place on-shore like making and mending nets, processing and marketing fish. Women are previously engaged in coastal area of Bangladesh where shrimp farming is a dominant occupation. Nearly 85% of the women are involved in fry collecting which does not interfere with their day-to-day household work, and helps addition the household income.(Shelly and Costa, 2002). Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) in Bangladesh works upon addressing poverty as well as rural development, gender equality, environmental preservation, tragedy management, human rights and other social issues. It also support communal and financial empowerment of the poor, microcredit, agriculture and related activities, water supply and sanitation, women entrepreneur development and other areas. Bangladesh is the most active NGO sector in the developing world, over 6000 registered NGOs are active and about 10 percent play a major role. (Rahman, 2006) The NGOs works on many programs to develop women development and sustainable development in the society, raise the capacity of the women to participate in national, social and democratic processes and to participate in national and local business activities. Most of the sectors are agro based due to most of the women are still engaged with the agro-based sectors like paddy production, poultry farming, dairy farming etc. Conclusion In recent year a great percentage women in Bangladesh are both directly and indirectly involved in agricultural activities . In crop production activities women involvement is mostly related to managerial activities. Women friendly pre-harvest as well as post- harvest technologies for crop production and processing. Participation of women in Livestock and poultry production activities as well as in homestead gardening has gradually increased to a substantial extent. A women in Bangladesh feel more comfortable in agricultural activities. If a woman achieve capability in 80% or more of the weighted pointed as empowered When economic activities incise the rural women benefit most in Bangladesh. Socioeconomic conditions rise within the households with increased participation in aquaculture, which give her increased decision-making power on household management and income making activities. Poverty is the main cause of difference in a rural phenomenon, for the impact of fisheries and aquaculture gender equity become very high. Most prominently visible economic benefits were able to originate from various activities has gained them suitable place in the decision making process. References Ahmed, A. U., et al. (2007). The world’s most deprived: Characteristics and causes of extreme poverty and hunger International Food Policy Research Institute. Washington, DC: 145. Ahmed, N. and K. A. Toufique (2014). Greening the blue revolution of smallà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ scale freshwater aquaculture in Mymensingh, Bangladesh. Aquaculture Research. Alam, J. (1997). Impact of smallholder livestock development project in some selected areas of rural Bangladesh. Livestock research for rural development 9(3): 1-14. Asaduzzaman, M. (2010). The next agricultural transition in Bangladesh: Which transition, why and how? conference on Understanding the Next Generation in Asia, Bangkok, April. Fattah, K. A. (2000). Poultry as a tool in poverty eradication and promotion of gender equality. Frands Dolberg and Poul Henning Petersen (eds.) 10. Food, U. and A. Organization (2011). The State of Food and Agriculture 2010–2011: Women in Agriculture: Closing the Gender Gap for Development. FAO Home, http://www. fao. org/docrep/013/i2050e/i2050e00. htm (accessed 1 November 2011). Grimm, M., et al. (2008). A human development index by income groups.World development 36(12): 2527-2546. Hadi, A. (1997). The NGO intervention and womens empowerment--the Bangladesh experience. Hicks, D. A. (1997). The inequality-adjusted human development index: a constructive proposal. World development 25(8): 1283-1298. Hossain, M. and A. Bayes (2009). Rural economy and livelihoods: Insights from Bangladesh, AH Development Publishing House. Jaim, W. and M. Hossain (2011). Women’s Participation in Agriculture in Bangladesh 1988-2008: Changes and Determinants. pre-conference event on â€Å"Dynamics of Rural Livelihoods and Poverty in South Asia 7th Asian Society of Agricultural Economists (ASAE) International Conference Hanoi, Vietnam. Nielsen, H., et al. (2003). The impact of semi-scavenging poultry production on the consumption of animal source foods by women and girls in Bangladesh. The Journal of nutrition 133(11): 4027S-4030S. Quisumbing, A. R. (2003). Household decisions, gender, and development: a synthesis of recent research, International Food Policy Research Institute. Rahman, S. (2006). Development, democracy and the NGO sector theory and evidence from Bangladesh. Journal of developing societies 22(4): 451-473. Rahman, S. and J. K. Routray (1998). Technological change and womens participation in crop production in Bangladesh. Gender, Technology and Development 2(2): 243-267. Rao, A. and D. Kelleher (1995). Engendering organizational change: the BRAC case. IDS bulletin 26(3): 69-78. Shamsuddoha, M. (2005). Poultry rearing-an alternative income generating activity for rural women development of Bangladesh.Chittagong University Journal of Commerce 19. Shelly, A. and M. Costa (2002). Women in aquaculture: initiatives of caritas Bangladesh. Penang, Malaysia, ICLARM-The World Fish Center: 77-87. Zaman, H. (1995). Patterns of activity and use of time in rural Bangladesh: class, gender, and seasonal variations. The Journal of Developing Areas: 371-388.

change Essay -- essays research papers

There are three types of people in this world. The ones who accept change as soon as the change happens, the ones who hate change and only think pessimistically about it, and the ones who are skeptical at first but then eventually accept the change and make something positive out if it. People should be more like this; doubtful at first but after much deliberation accept the change.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The first type of person is the person that accepts change as soon as it happens. In the short film, â€Å"Who Moved My Cheese,† the characters Sniff and Scurry, and Hem and Haw, are faced with a huge change when their cheese has been moved to a different area of the maze. Sniff and Scurry, two little brown mice, are upset at first, but after a short while they get their running shoes and right away go to look for the cheese, not wasting any time. They looked at the moving of the cheese as a great opportunity to explore the maze, and eventually they found the cheese. Meanwhile, Hem and Haw were still at the old area, where the cheese used to be, sulking away, not accomplishing anything.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Which brings me to the second type of person. Hem, a little person, a bit on the heavy side if you ask me, probably from eating too much cheese, is the type that does not like change at all and is very stubborn to accept it. When he and his friend Haw discovered that the cheese had moved, all Hem did was pout and complain that he was very hungry and that he w... change Essay -- essays research papers There are three types of people in this world. The ones who accept change as soon as the change happens, the ones who hate change and only think pessimistically about it, and the ones who are skeptical at first but then eventually accept the change and make something positive out if it. People should be more like this; doubtful at first but after much deliberation accept the change.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The first type of person is the person that accepts change as soon as it happens. In the short film, â€Å"Who Moved My Cheese,† the characters Sniff and Scurry, and Hem and Haw, are faced with a huge change when their cheese has been moved to a different area of the maze. Sniff and Scurry, two little brown mice, are upset at first, but after a short while they get their running shoes and right away go to look for the cheese, not wasting any time. They looked at the moving of the cheese as a great opportunity to explore the maze, and eventually they found the cheese. Meanwhile, Hem and Haw were still at the old area, where the cheese used to be, sulking away, not accomplishing anything.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Which brings me to the second type of person. Hem, a little person, a bit on the heavy side if you ask me, probably from eating too much cheese, is the type that does not like change at all and is very stubborn to accept it. When he and his friend Haw discovered that the cheese had moved, all Hem did was pout and complain that he was very hungry and that he w...

Prohibition of College Sports Essay

â€Å"On October 16, 1905, shocked by the level of violence in college football, President Roosevelt summoned the Harvard, Yale and Princeton presidents and the football coaches to the White House. † College sports have turned out to be a problem since over the last hundred years and today, although sports have been major entertainment events for students and money-spinner, there are also a lot of problems associated with such events. Several governing bodies regulate the college athletic events including the NCAA, NAIA and the NCJAA. Many of the college sports have become popular on the local, regional and the national scale and they turn out to occupy important places in broadcasting and newspaper coverage. The origin of American college sports dates make to more the 165 years ago. Harvard University was one of the first to get involved in major college sporting activities. During that period college sporting activities was just a pastime, and did not have the associated money, media coverage and the huge sponsoring. Today, American college sports events are facing several problems with online and offline gambling and betting, sponsoring from liquor companies and the swearing and violence that occur at such sporting events. The college sports events actually do not promote education, but makes the students take up wrong paths. Due to these reasons, many people suggest that college sports events should in fact be banned (Mendelson, 2008, Epstein, 2002, Associated Press, 2008, Kancher, 2000, The Associated Press, 2007). Body Legislatures are currently very much concerned about the increasing number of online and offline betting and gambling going on in the realm of college sports. The scale of the racket is so much so that people are shifting from the legal gambling hubs of Nevada to the online betting web sites, which offer much more profit. These illegal web sites would in fact corrupt college sports and cause the students to choose illegal pathways with the gambling companies. McCain came up with a bill in 2000 to ban college sports betting, but his proposal was turned down. However, one of McCain aide’s said â€Å"He’ll continue to look at good opportunities,† meaning that McCain would try another strategy to reduce gambling. Many of the illegal betting companies are picking up deals with the coaches and the sports officials of the colleges. Another huge concern is the use of lottery company advertisements in college sporting events. More than $ 385, 000 has been spent by a lottery company every year on sporting events. Experts feel that permitting lottery company advertisements may in fact cause students to pick up gambling as a habit (Epstein, 2002, & The Associated Press, 2007). Alcohol companies are sponsoring the American college sports events on a large scale. They are turning out to be huge moneymakers as alcohol and beer sells well at college sporting events. Besides, it also encourages fantasy sports events that had often disastrous outcomes at college. Earlier an effort launched by the NCAA committee to ban alcohol ads during sporting events turned out to be disastrous. Today, nothing can be done about the alcohol advertisements that come up during college sporting events. The NCAA has permitted advertisements of liquors that contain less than 6 % of alcohol in them for sporting events. Many of the college sports coaches and officials have urged the NCAA to gradually ban the alcohol advertisements over the next few years. Many of the alcohol advertisements permitted during college sporting events were irresponsible. George Hacker head of CSPI says â€Å"College officials say they want to deter underage and binge drinking, and stop the riots that disrupt campus communities and blot schools’ reputations,†, which can only be possible if the number of advertisements during sports events were reduced. Fantasy games on the other hand would create another league, often damaging the name and reputation of college sport stars and sports teams (CSPI, 2003, & Rivals, 2008, During college sports events, the scenes are turning out to be very ugly due to the occurrences of swearing, passing racist or sexist remarks, physical violence, etc. Fans often taunt opposite team fans and insult opposing team players. In the past, university campus officials have tried to ban the use of remarks and adjectives by the fans, but this has gone unheard. Today obscenity is very common during college sports events. Games are not played in the right spirit. In the past banning college teams that have notorious groups of supporters have also not worked. Hence, an immediate ban on college sporting events has been called for. Boston University Dean feels that sporting events should be held in the right spirit and says â€Å"But standing and shouting obscenities does not have a place. I don’t equate school spirit with the yelling of obscenities. † (Cramer, 2006 & Associated Press, 2007). Conclusion There have also been several other problems facing American college sports. The manner in which the players, officials and the coaches are being treated seem to be a problem. Students being put into sport teams complain of several inconsistencies. The GW Hatchet reports â€Å"The NCAA is investigating an incident involving Bobby Knight, the head coach of Indiana University who allegedly choked a player in practice and showed his feces to players during a halftime speech. † Incidents like these can be very traumatizing and can often lead to unpleasant experiences that should not at all turn up during a college sport event. The very idea of having college sports events is lost. Hence, a total ban on college sports events is called for to ensure that students can ensure full concentration on academics (Kancher, 2000).

Conservative Perspectives on Gun Control

Conservative Perspectives on Gun Control The second amendment to the U.S. Constitution is perhaps the most important amendment in the Bill of Rights, if not the entire document. The second amendment is all that stands in the way between American citizens and total chaos. Without the second amendment, nothing would prevent a duly elected president (who is also the nations commander-in-chief) from declaring martial law and using the nations military forces to systematically usurp and dismantle the remaining civil rights of its citizens. The second amendment is Americas greatest defense against the forces of totalitarianism. Interpretation of the Second Amendment The simple wording of the second amendment has been widely interpreted, and gun-control advocates have sought to obfuscate the language in order to further their agenda. Perhaps the most controversial aspect of the amendment, upon which gun-control advocates have rested much of their arguments is the part that reads a well-regulated militia. Those who seek to erode the amendment, claim that the right to bear arms is extended solely to militias, and since both the number of militias and the effectiveness of them have diminished since the 1700s, the amendment is now moot. Local and state government bodies have frequently sought to strip the amendment of its power by imposing draconian regulations and requirements. For 32 years, gun owners in Washington D.C. were not legally permitted to own a handgun or carry one within the districts territory. In June 2008, however, the Supreme Court ruled 5-4 that the districts law was unconstitutional. Writing for the majority, Justice Antonin Scalia observed that regardless of whether violent crime is a problem, the enshrinement of constitutional rights necessarily takes certain policy choices off the table ... Whatever the reason, handguns are the most popular weapon chosen by Americans for self-defense in the home, and a complete prohibition of their use is invalid. Perspectives of Gun Control Advocates While handguns were the issue in Washington, D.C., gun control advocates elsewhere have decried the access to and usage of fully-automatic weapons and other high-powered firearms by the general public. Theyve sought to limit or even prohibit ownership of these so-called assault weapons in a misguided attempt to protect the public. In 1989, California became the first state to pass an outright ban on fully-automatic rifles, machine guns and other firearms considered to be assault weapons. Since then, Connecticut, Hawaii, Maryland, and New Jersey have passed similar laws. One reason gun control opponents are so adamant about keeping these firearms on the open market is because the access to weapons by the American military has far outpaced the access to weapons by the American public in both number and power. If a nation is unable to defend itself against the forces of tyranny within its government because the right to bear arms is so badly eroded, it undermines the spirit and intention of the second amendment. Liberals also advocate legislation restricting the types of ammunition available for firearms, as well as the types of people who can own them. Ex-cons or people with prior mental illnesses, for example, are prohibited from owning or carrying guns in certain states, and the Brady Bill, which became law in 1994, mandates prospective gun owners undergo a five-day waiting period so local law enforcement authorities can conduct background checks. Every regulation, restriction or law that infringes upon Americans right to keep and bear arms, prevents America from being a country that is truly free.

Analysis Of A Christmas Carol Essays

Analysis Of A Christmas Carol Essays Analysis Of A Christmas Carol Essay Analysis Of A Christmas Carol Essay Essay Topic: A Christmas Carol I think this is very noble of him because Bob Cratchitt wouldve been very grateful to him and this also would have changed the rest of the Cratchitts family, especially Mrs Cratchitt (who expressed her great dislike of Scrooge on Christmas day) perception of him. However Scrooge does not want this glory because it defeats the object of sending the turkey he wishes to remain anonymous. He also learns that Christmas is a time for forgiveness and for being with family. He went to church, and walked about the streets, and watched the people hurrying to and fro, and patted the children on the head, and questioned beggars, and looked and looked down into the kitchens of houses, and up to the window; and found that everything could yield him pleasure. He already knows that there is no profit in celebrating Christmas, however he now realises that this is not the point and he should appreciate the joy that the Christmas season conveys. He finds delight in everything, even things that previously vexed him. He never dreamed that any walk that anything could give him so much happiness. Now with this quote it sounds pretty pointless with a lack of emphasis yet if you look it will become apparent that the little things are beginning to affect his beliefs on Christmas and what its consequences are (not in a bad way). Furthermore, it was showing that he would never even dream of changing his actions towards Christmas so therefore with that, it obviously shows with the dramatic information he has had inflicted on him, has really motivated him for the Christmas season. I think in general Dickens is trying to tell the Victorian audience that it is possible to change for the better. He shows this through Scrooge when he pays a visit to Fred, his nephew. He was at home in five minutes. Nothing could be heartier Wonderful party, wonderful games, wonderful unanimity, won-der-ful happiness! Here I think Scrooge is in disbelief that his nephew still wants to know him and doesnt denounce him because of what he said earlier when his nephew visited him in his office. And so we learn that there is change in everybody and sometimes it can be a surprise.

Free Essays on ATMs For Free

This is the 90’s. Well, not for long, but that’s supposed to mean we have progressed, things are better than they used to be, more â€Å"modern†, more convenient. One of the boons of today is that people almost never have to go to a bank anymore. We have electronic transfers and automatic deposits, and when we need our money quickly (which is always) we have the convenience of using ATMs. Of course, there is a price for this convenience. When using an ATM that is owned by a bank other than your own, one can expect to pay a fee, usually between one and two dollars. That’s outrageous! How can a bank charge a customer to withdraw his own money? Well, they are doing a service to their non-customers where, in the most grand of economic terms, the ATM customer hasn’t done anything for them. Sure, the fee is annoying, but the bottom line is people still use ATMs with full warning of the fee and therefore have no right to object to paying for services rende red. In the past few months city legislatures in Santa Monica and San Francisco, CA felt that the people of their cities should not have to pay service charges at ATMs where they did not have an account. The people voted to ban these fees. It is unclear what they think should be illegal about the ATM fees. The main contention seems to be that it is just unfair. Well, after hearing that they can longer charge non-customers for the use of their machines and will be expected to offer a service that costs them money for nothing, it is the banks that are crying â€Å"unfair.† â€Å"There are so many non-customers using a banks ATM, if you didn’t charge these fees it would start to get cost-prohibitive to provide this convenience,† said Harris Bank spokesperson Pam Kasser. (Rackl 23). In retaliation, two national banks, Wells Fargo and Bank of America are refusing transactions to non-customers in Santa Monica. They feel the people have no right to force them to offer free withdraws. So far... Free Essays on ATM's For Free Free Essays on ATM's For Free This is the 90’s. Well, not for long, but that’s supposed to mean we have progressed, things are better than they used to be, more â€Å"modern†, more convenient. One of the boons of today is that people almost never have to go to a bank anymore. We have electronic transfers and automatic deposits, and when we need our money quickly (which is always) we have the convenience of using ATMs. Of course, there is a price for this convenience. When using an ATM that is owned by a bank other than your own, one can expect to pay a fee, usually between one and two dollars. That’s outrageous! How can a bank charge a customer to withdraw his own money? Well, they are doing a service to their non-customers where, in the most grand of economic terms, the ATM customer hasn’t done anything for them. Sure, the fee is annoying, but the bottom line is people still use ATMs with full warning of the fee and therefore have no right to object to paying for services rende red. In the past few months city legislatures in Santa Monica and San Francisco, CA felt that the people of their cities should not have to pay service charges at ATMs where they did not have an account. The people voted to ban these fees. It is unclear what they think should be illegal about the ATM fees. The main contention seems to be that it is just unfair. Well, after hearing that they can longer charge non-customers for the use of their machines and will be expected to offer a service that costs them money for nothing, it is the banks that are crying â€Å"unfair.† â€Å"There are so many non-customers using a banks ATM, if you didn’t charge these fees it would start to get cost-prohibitive to provide this convenience,† said Harris Bank spokesperson Pam Kasser. (Rackl 23). In retaliation, two national banks, Wells Fargo and Bank of America are refusing transactions to non-customers in Santa Monica. They feel the people have no right to force them to offer free withdraws. So far...

Racism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 4

Racism - Essay Example They made them belief that some human beings are less human by the virtue that they shared a different language, colour, or place of birth. To date, some African tribes still hold onto those beliefs, which make them fight occasionally. The worst scenario was in Rwanda when a war between the two main tribes Tutsi and Hutu almost swept the nation. While you will hardly notice racial discrimination in some parts of the world, in some parts it is readable and accepted as a norm. For instance, in Europe, as African immigrants join different countries to trade, they are given different treatment by the natives, which cause confrontations at times. In the Middle East, Lebanon is the worst marked scenario where racism is practised openly. Foreign domestic workers receive poor treatment from their bosses who treat them as second-class citizens. Domestic workers from Asia and Africa cannot even use the Lebanese beaches (Shah Web). The major problem with racism is that it hinders development. When different tribes decide to live in isolation and refuse to interact with other communities, knowledge and used for innovations cannot flow. In addition, it hinders immigration of people from one place to another who carry expertise that is not with the natives. People fear poor treatments offered by other based on race and avoid immigration. UN’s World Conference on Racism in 2001 tried to prevent racism in the world. With the main agenda on ways to curb discrimination based on racism, xenophobia, and its related intolerance (Shah Web). European commission against racism and intolerance (ECRI) is a human right body that cannot condone racism. It has held different delegations in Finland, San Marino, Ireland, Ukraine and in other parts to make sure that every human being is treated with the dignity they deserves (Council of Europe Web) Although different non-governmental organisations

Compare and contrast Abraham as a religious figure in Judaism, Essay

Compare and contrast Abraham as a religious figure in Judaism, Christianity, and Islam How is he so And how might this build each religion - Essay Example Abraham is considered to be the first of three Biblical Patriarchs, who lived after the Flood. According to the book of Genesis, he was the first of Jews, and the founder of the Jewish people. â€Å"For Jewish commentators through the ages, the biblical story of Hagar and Sarah forces a choice between two central principles: reverence for their Jewish ancestors, through whom God creates the nation of Israel, and concern for the powerless, which is enshrined in biblical and subsequent Jewish law† (Trible, P., 2006, 102). According to Judaism Abraham is associated with opening of the idea of ​​monotheism and its development. When he was three years old, he understood that God is the creator of everything and smashed the idols of his father Terah. The "Land of Moriah" is revealed in the history of the sacrifice of Isaac and identified with the Mount Moriah in Jerusalem, where Solomon built the Temple. Therefore, it is believed that the temple was built in the place where Abraham created an altar for burning the offerings. In the Christian tradition the image of the patriarch Abraham is the prototype of the highest piety and righteousness, in both the Old and the New Testament. According to St. John, Abraham was the guardian and teacher of faith and morals of his people among the surrounding Gentiles. St. Augustine wrote about Gods promise to Abraham, the multiplication of progeny and his blessing, which refers to all mankind. The Islam religion considers that the Kaaba was built by Ibrahim (Abraham) together with his son Ishmael in Mecca, on the place, where it stood during the days of Adam. Ibrahim died in Jerusalem at the age of 175 years. Over the cave of Machpelah, where he was buried, Muslims built a mosque and protected it, as one of the holiest shrines. According to the Koran the son of Ibrahim - Ishmael was the progenitor of the Arabic people. Muslims state that Abraham was in Mecca together with

Management and Organizational Behaviour Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Management and Organizational Behaviour - Essay Example According to Mullins, "Organisational behaviour does not encompass the whole of management; it is more accurately described in the narrower interpretation of providing a behavioural approach to management" (Mullins, 1993, p.2). rganizational behaviour includes people behaviour, management processes, organizational context and processes, and the influence of external environment. The term "behaviour science" is used to explain "a selective, interdisciplinary approach to the study of human behaviour" (Mullins, 1993, p.2-3). The main disciplines, which help to explain the nature of organizations and human behaviour, are psychology, anthropology and sociology. 2. An organization can be considered as a single system. Organizational factors are interdependent, and "cannot be studied in isolation" (Mullins, 1993, p.2). The main headings include the individual, the group, the organization and the environment. The individual can be seen in isolation or as a part of a group, "in response to expectations of organization" or environmental influences (Mullins, 1993, p.3). For the college under analysis, an individual represents by a student and a teacher, a managerial staff member, etc. An important aspect of the study of organizations is the study of people -behaviour in groups. This can give indications of why certain groups are effective and others are not. Group members in an organization will have one or more goals in common, such as students groups, teaching and management staff. Communication is essential within each group and members of a group have roles to play in order to achieve the group task. Expected behaviour patterns are developed within each group and these are referred to as norms. The organization is the basic framework within which individuals and groups behaviour occur. A college itself represents a formal structure of organization within which individuals and groups interact in order to reach the common goal. The quality and nature of the decisions made are influence by the nature of the structure. The environment contains a range of influences that affect an organization. They include: socio-demographic, technological, economic and political factors. In general, the environment of the eastern European countries can be characterized as economically unstable and backward in contrast to leading European countries. For this reason, to stress the importance of how the college is positioned with respect to its environment is necessary. 3. An open-system view recognizes that the social system is in a dynamic relationship with its environment, whereby inputs are received, transformed and outputs are passed on. Morgan in "Images of Organization" (1986 cited Mullins 1993, pp.6-7) singles out "contrasting metaphors" which help to understand organizational behaviour. They include: machines, organisms, brains, cultures, political systems, psychic prisons, flux and transformation, instruments of dominance. According to Morgan "viewing organisations as machines can provide the basis for efficient operation in a routine, reliable and predictable way". The college structure can be viewed as a bureaucratic structure which consists of parts that managed in accordance with changing environment. Organisms mean leaving systems which are able to adapt changes of rapidly changing environment. The college structure is a flexible system which reacts on changes and adapts

Ron Kirshner vs.Flash Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

Ron Kirshner vs.Flash - Essay Example of the Bozapalooza but he told Kirshner that an SnS reunion concert was out of the question due to differences between Flash and fellow SnS member Axl. Flash made it clear that because of past arguments he would not perform on stage with Axl. These negotiations occurred in September. Flash also indicated that he would go to Thailand and therefore could not be reached for the time being. Flash informed Kirshner that he would be gone from Sept 23 to October 22; during that period he would be incommunicado. Kirshner sent a letter on September 21, via regular mail, stipulating their agreements. It arrived September 24 or after Flash had already left for his overseas trip. When Flash returned from his trip he was surprised to learn that he would be performing with Axl at the Bozapalooza against his express wishes. Kirshner informed him that because Flash could not be reached, he went ahead and booked the concert with Axl. Hence Flash wants to know if he is legally obligated to perform at the concert. A contract requires a meeting of minds between the parties involved. There must be an offer from one party and an acceptance of that offer on the part of the other party. In the present case, there appears to be a reciprocal obligation between Kirshner and Flash. There was an offer by Kirshner for Flash to perform at the Bozapalooza in exchange for a sum certain in money. Kirshner, as promissor, showed a willingness to be legally bound by the terms he specified in a way that would lead a reasonable person in the position of Flash to understand that an acceptance is being sought and, if made, would result in an enforceable contract. Now, an important matter to consider is what the stipulation of the contract was. On September 1, Ron made an initial offer involving an SnS reunion concert at Bozapalooza. The response of Flash was a counter-offer stating that while he was willing to perform at Bozapalooza, he would not perform with Axl. Negotiations resumed on September

How I Undertook the Conduct of Research Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4000 words

How I Undertook the Conduct of Research - Essay Example Where did you start with your research? b. How and why did you approach the various aspects of your work? c. How, why and where you found things? d. Why were some things useful, and why were others not? Where did you start your research? The research done in order to write the research paper was conducted with a view to analyse existing legal rules and jurisprudence on the law on assisted dying. I started my research by first reflecting and asking myself what I wanted to find out and how I wanted to proceed. Did I have a specific opinion on whether or not the law should be reformed and then find justification for such an opinion, or did I want my own opinions to be shaped by the data that I would come across in the course of my own research? The first thing I did was to acknowledge that I had a specific and definite opinion on the issue of assisted dying and it was that I believed the law was in great need of reformHowever, I also wanted to ensure that I started as objectively as pos sible, and thus it was important for me to get an accurate definition of assisted suicide. For this, I wanted not grey literature or advocacy literature, but something scientific and credible. Thus I relied on a book entitled â€Å"Medical Law and Ethics†. I found that the definition of euthanasia, or assisted dying is, the act of consciously assisting someone’s death in order to relieve that person of suffering as a result of terminal illness1. I also found that this can be broken down into even more classifications, such as passive and active, as well as voluntary and involuntary. After knowing what the definition of euthanasia, I then focused on finding what the law presently states on the subject matter. For this, it was of course helpful to not only look at the appropriate statutes and criminal code, but also to look at what eminent jurists were saying on the subject matter. It quickly became clear in the course of my research that while neighbouring countries lik e The Netherlands and Belgium – both in close proximity to the United Kingdom in more ways than geography -- have allowed euthanasia and in fact, many citizens of the UK and around the world have made the tip to these two countries to have assisted suicide performed on them, it is still illegal in our jurisdiction. How and why did you approach the various aspects of your work? Because I did not want to just focus on a general reform call, I wanted to be specific to a particular bill. To this end, I focused on the Assisted Suicide bill by Lord Joffe, which was priorly defeated in the House of Lords. As I stated in my reform paper, the bill, if enacted into law, would allow terminally ill patients to seek drugs from their doctors that would end their lives. The benefits of the act, if passed, will only be for those who have been medically diagnosed to live for six months, who are suffering from unbearable pain, and who are psychologically of sound mind and not depressed. I chos e this particular reform bill because it is by and large the most debated upon and controversial bill with respect to euthanasia and the debates on the merits of this bill have not abated even after its defeat. This research primarily relied on doctrinal methods. Paul Chynoweth defines the Doctrinal Legal Research as follows:

See my attchment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

See my attchment - Essay Example From decades this procedure was being followed in hospitals and Medicare centers which was a time consuming and hectic work. Healthcare Information database was thus the need and necessity of time according to the prevalent healthcare scenario in the country. To take care about patient’s health record and doctor patient fast interaction; National Health Services (NHS) took care the responsibility of introducing Health Information Technology (HIT) into hospitals and Medicare centers of United Kingdom. The key reasons of implementing this mega setup was to get rid of hardcopies of patient records, fasten the process, serve the patients well and ease the doctors as they would have previous health record of patients available all the time. United Kingdom government took immense steps for the implementation of this system by providing necessary funds. The purpose of this paper is to have a clear cut understanding of health information technology invasion, implementation, processes and position in United Kingdom Medicare setup. Discussion of the response from government in the adaptation of this idea and reaction attained from the relevant institutions etc. Providing best healthcare services is the intention of United Kingdom government and for this they take essential necessary steps. The progression of technology gave opportunity to humans to maintain healthcare records of patients online on an online portal. The involvement of United Kingdom government was massive in this regard thus National health Services was given the task to implant state of the art healthcare services. National health Services proceeded in taking significant steps about this matter and introduced Healthcare Information Technology (HIT) in the year 2002. The aim was primarily to maintain a centralize database of patients so that it would ease processes (Jha, Doolan & Scott, 2008‎, p.

Ron Kirshner vs.Flash Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

Ron Kirshner vs.Flash - Essay Example of the Bozapalooza but he told Kirshner that an SnS reunion concert was out of the question due to differences between Flash and fellow SnS member Axl. Flash made it clear that because of past arguments he would not perform on stage with Axl. These negotiations occurred in September. Flash also indicated that he would go to Thailand and therefore could not be reached for the time being. Flash informed Kirshner that he would be gone from Sept 23 to October 22; during that period he would be incommunicado. Kirshner sent a letter on September 21, via regular mail, stipulating their agreements. It arrived September 24 or after Flash had already left for his overseas trip. When Flash returned from his trip he was surprised to learn that he would be performing with Axl at the Bozapalooza against his express wishes. Kirshner informed him that because Flash could not be reached, he went ahead and booked the concert with Axl. Hence Flash wants to know if he is legally obligated to perform at the concert. A contract requires a meeting of minds between the parties involved. There must be an offer from one party and an acceptance of that offer on the part of the other party. In the present case, there appears to be a reciprocal obligation between Kirshner and Flash. There was an offer by Kirshner for Flash to perform at the Bozapalooza in exchange for a sum certain in money. Kirshner, as promissor, showed a willingness to be legally bound by the terms he specified in a way that would lead a reasonable person in the position of Flash to understand that an acceptance is being sought and, if made, would result in an enforceable contract. Now, an important matter to consider is what the stipulation of the contract was. On September 1, Ron made an initial offer involving an SnS reunion concert at Bozapalooza. The response of Flash was a counter-offer stating that while he was willing to perform at Bozapalooza, he would not perform with Axl. Negotiations resumed on September

See my attchment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

See my attchment - Essay Example From decades this procedure was being followed in hospitals and Medicare centers which was a time consuming and hectic work. Healthcare Information database was thus the need and necessity of time according to the prevalent healthcare scenario in the country. To take care about patient’s health record and doctor patient fast interaction; National Health Services (NHS) took care the responsibility of introducing Health Information Technology (HIT) into hospitals and Medicare centers of United Kingdom. The key reasons of implementing this mega setup was to get rid of hardcopies of patient records, fasten the process, serve the patients well and ease the doctors as they would have previous health record of patients available all the time. United Kingdom government took immense steps for the implementation of this system by providing necessary funds. The purpose of this paper is to have a clear cut understanding of health information technology invasion, implementation, processes and position in United Kingdom Medicare setup. Discussion of the response from government in the adaptation of this idea and reaction attained from the relevant institutions etc. Providing best healthcare services is the intention of United Kingdom government and for this they take essential necessary steps. The progression of technology gave opportunity to humans to maintain healthcare records of patients online on an online portal. The involvement of United Kingdom government was massive in this regard thus National health Services was given the task to implant state of the art healthcare services. National health Services proceeded in taking significant steps about this matter and introduced Healthcare Information Technology (HIT) in the year 2002. The aim was primarily to maintain a centralize database of patients so that it would ease processes (Jha, Doolan & Scott, 2008‎, p.

The audience can sympathise Essay Example for Free

The audience can sympathise Essay Arthur Miller wrote A View from the Bridge as a modern version of a Greek tragedy, therefore, Eddies death at the end of Act Two should be tragic. The audience have to feel pity, or pathos, towards Eddie when he dies to make the play a successful tragedy. According to 1.Aristotles definition of a tragic hero, the hero should be noble and of high status; he should have a flaw, or hamartia, which should lead to his tragic ending; his punishment should seem to be harsher than his crime; and he should realise that his flaw has led to his tragedy. By making his play a modern version of a Greek tragedy, Miller uses the character of Alfieri, his description of Eddie as a likeable and respected man and an extreme and violent death in the arms of his wife to make the audience sympathise with him and to make him a tragic hero. Throughout the play, Miller gives his audience many reasons to respect and admire Eddie. Although there is too much love (p. 48) for his niece, it is also obvious that he is very protective over Catherine and genuinely cares about her. Eddie and his wife have taken Catherine in and have given her a loving and caring home to live in. Also, Eddie seems popular within his community, is liked by Louis and Mike and is described by Alfieri as good a man as he had to be in a life that was hard and even. (p. 26) Eddie is respected both in the house, because he is head of the household, and in the community. This shows that he is actually a noble person, with high status in the Italian-American community. He is the only person in the family who works; he is the provider for the family. Miller shows how hardworking Eddie is because he has to earn a living for his whole family and despite the mistakes he makes, both Catherine and Beatrice love him until he dies at the end of the play. Many may feel sorry for Eddie even without the chorus, Alfieri, being there to lead the audience though the play. In the beginning of the play, when Beatrice tells Eddie, Shes got a job. (p. 18), Eddie seems shocked and says to Catherine Its not wonderfulYou cant take no job. Why didnt you ask me before you take a job? (p. 18). This quote shows the audience that Eddie disapproves of this and does not want his niece to leave him, even though Beatrice and Catherine had wanted Eddie to be happy about this. When Beatrice tells Eddie that Catherine will earn fifty dollars a week (p. 18), Eddie is taken aback and his jealousy of Catherine earning more than he does becomes more and more obvious throughout the conversation. Later on in the discussion, Eddie says I want you to be in a nice office. Maybe a lawyers office someplace in New York in one of them nice buildings. (p. 19). This contradicts what Alfieri says in his introduction to the play In this neighbourhood to meet a lawyer or a priest on the street is unlucky. Were only thought of in connexion with disasters, and theyd rather not get too close. (p. 11). Later on in the play, when Catherine fell in love with Eddie, Eddie gets even more envious and angry. In his conversation with Catherine, he says He [Rodolpho] marries you hes go the right to be an American citizenThe guy is lookin for his break, thats all hes lookin for. (p. 41). This shows how angry Eddie is at the fact that Catherine likes Rodolpho, and not him. Miller helps the audience sympathise with Eddie in this scene by making Catherine trust Rodolpho instead of Eddie. To a modern audience, there may be some features in Eddie that are hard not to dislike. His flaw involves love for a girl he has raised as if she was his own daughter, a terrible taboo. Also, Eddie is a parental figure who seems to expect women to do domestic work for him. Tragic heroes usually recognise their own mistakes. In Greek tragedies, this is the moment in a play when the tragic hero appreciates their own weakness and their own responsibility. However, throughout the play, Eddie does not admit to himself the truth about loving Catherine. Although Beatrice tries to make him face this truth by saying You want somethin else, Eddie and you can never have her (p. 83), Eddie seems truly shocked and grasps his head as though it would burst (p. 83). All throughout the play, Eddie never really seems capable of facing what he feels or admitting his responsibility. Even in the end of the play, Eddie says, Marco, tell them what a liar you are! (p. 84) To try and prevent the audience from making harsh judgements of Eddie, Miller uses Alfieri as a type of chorus in the play. In Greek tragedies, the chorus are observers who judge actions fairly. They help the audience to consider the elements of the play. As the chorus, Alfieri sympathises with Eddie, along with the audience. He expresses his feelings and thoughts to the audience about what happens throughout the play and provides judgement. In the play, Alfieri suggests that it is normal and human to sin. He also states that many people have hidden guilty secrets but there is something beautiful in a man whose sins are so public and so clear that he becomes wholly known (p. 85). Before Eddie calls the immigration department, Alfieri warns him that even those who understand will turn against you (p. 67), which shows that Eddies weakness is not special, but that other people still will judge him. Then, with Eddie dying on stage, Alfieri ends the play by saying, I confess that something perversely pure calls to me from his [Eddies] memoryfor he allowed himself to be wholly known and for that I think I will love him (p. 85) In other words, since we all have guilty secrets but manage to keep them hidden inside, there is something quite pure in a person whose guilty secrets are not unknown. An oxymoron Miller used, perversely pure (p. 85), shows that Alfieri wants us to think about our own weaknesses and not judge Eddie too harshly. Another common feature of Greek tragedy is that the death should seem predictable, and that it cannot be stopped. Miller uses Alfieri to suggest this to the audience, as if it is out of control of the character. Right from the beginning, Miller makes it obvious that Eddie would die in the end. Alfieri keeps giving clues to the audience about Eddie being destined to die, saying he felt powerless and watched it run its bloody course. (p. 12) Another quote from Alfieri is, I knew where he [Eddie] was heading for, I knew where he was going to end. (p. 50) These quotes make us feel more pity for Eddie because, even when he seems happy and loving, we still know he is heading towards a bloody (p. 12) end. Miller successfully makes Eddie a sympathetic character by making him fit the tragic hero he is supposed to be. The audience goes from admiring Eddie to getting to know his terrible guilty secret. Through the whole play we get the unescapable feeling that he is heading towards his bloody end and that it is his guilty secret that will cause it. Although for some modern theatre audiences, Eddie may seem to be an old-fashioned man and although he never really admits his own faults, Miller uses Alfieris character to make sure we can still feel the intended pity. I think this is Millers greatest achievement in this play, reminding us that we are all human, guilty in some ways, and that we should feel sorry for ourselves and Eddie for that.

Serotonin Function and Mechanism of Antidepressant Action

Serotonin Function and Mechanism of Antidepressant Action Neurotransmitters are chemicals located and released in the brain to allow an impulse from one nerve cell to pass to another nerve cell. There are approximately 50 neurotransmitters identified. There are billions of nerve cells located in the brain, which do not directly touch each other. Nerve cells communicate messages by secreting neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters can excite or inhibit neurons (nerve cells). Some common neurotransmitters are acetylcholine, norepinephrine, dopamine, serotonin and gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA). Serotonin is a monoamine neurotransmitter. It is synthesized, from the amino acid L-tryptophan, in brain neurons and stored in vesicles. Serotonin is found in three main areas of the body: the intestinal wall; large constricted blood vessels; and the central nervous system. The most widely studied effects have been those on the central nervous system. The functions of serotonin are numerous and appear to involve control of appetite, sleep, memory and learning, temperature regulation, mood, behavior (including sexual and hallucinogenic behavior), cardiovascular function, muscle contraction, endocrine regulation, and depression. It is a well-known contributor to feelings of well-being; therefore it is also known as a happiness hormone despite not being a hormone. Serotonin is an inhibitory neurotransmitter which complements excitatory sympathetic systems like adrenaline and dopamine in the Central Nervous System. The physiological activity of serotonin starts from the brainstem in groups of brain cells called Raphe nucleus. Serotonin brain cells then spread to various regions of the central nervous system by branching out throughout the brain. History In 1935, Italian Vittorio Erspamer showed that an extract from enterochromaffin cells made intestines contract. Some believed it contained adrenaline, but two years later Erspamer was able to show that it was a previously unknown amine, which he named enteramine.[4] In 1948, Maurice M. Rapport, Arda Green, and Irvine Page of the Cleveland Clinic discovered a vasoconstrictor substance in blood serum, and since it was a serum agent affecting vascular tone, they named it serotonin. In 1952 it was shown that enteramine was the same substance as serotonin, and as the broad range of physiological roles were elucidated, the abbreviation 5HT of the proper chemical name 5-hydroxytryptamine became the preferred name in the pharmacological field. Mechanism of action The activity of serotonin arises in the brainstem from clusters of neurons known as the raphe nucleus. From the brain, serotonin neurons extend to virtually all parts of the central nervous system making the branching of the serotonin network the most expansive neurochemical system in the brain. The importance of this network becomes apparent when considering each serotonin neuron exerts an influence over as many as 500,000 target neurons. Due to the widespread distribution of serotonin in the nervous system, it is not surprising that this neurotransmitter can be linked to many types of behavior. Of the chemical neurotransmitter substances, serotonin is perhaps the most implicated in the treatment of various disorders, including anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, schizophrenia, stroke, obesity, pain, hypertension, vascular disorders, migraine, and nausea. A major factor in the understanding of the role of 5-HT in these disorders is the recent rapid advance made in understanding the physiological role of various serotonin receptor subtypes. There are at least four populations of receptors for serotonin: 5-HT1, 5-HT2, 5-HT3, and 5-HT4. The physiological function of each receptor subtype has not been established and is currently the subject of intensive investigation. Effects as a neurotransmitter Most neurotransmitters are released from tiny synaptic terminal buttons at the ends of nerve cells, but serotonin appears to be different. It is instead released freely from serotonergic varicosities into the general neuronal space, diffusing over a much larger area to activate the 5-HT receptors of nearby neurons. This reuptake can be disrupted by agents like MDMA, cocaine, tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). The overall action of serotonin is very complex and not entirely understood. Peripheral effects Cardiovascular action The cardiovascular effects of serotonin are complex. They are variable depending on the dose injected, experimental conditions, animal species and vascular state. Action on vessels: Serotonin induces either a vasoconstriction by 5-HT2 effect, in particular of renal vessels, or a vasodilation. Serotonin constricts veins and seems to induce venous thromboses and promotes platelet aggregating effect. It increases capillary permeability. Action on heart: Serotonin has a positive chronotropic action by 5-HT4 receptor stimulation and could take part in the genesis of certain rhythm disorders. It has a positive inotropic effect. Action on blood pressure: It is complex, according to experimental conditions, serotonin gives either hypotension, or hypertension, or no modification. Action on smooth muscles Serotonin induces contractions of intestine, bronchi and uterus. Digestive effects: Serotonin increases intestinal motility, probably by stimulation of 5-HT4 and 5-HT3 receptors: in human beings, injected by intravenous route, it increases duodenum and small intestine motility. This effect explains diarrhea observed in patients with carcinoid syndrome. Bronchial effects: Serotonin has a bronchoconstrictive action and a serotonin aerosol induces dyspnea (difficult or labored respiration). Uterus effect: Serotonin induces contractions of the uterus. Other actions Researchers have also found evidence that serotonin may play a role in regulating milk production in the breast, and that a defect within the serotonin network may be one underlying cause of SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). Central effects Serotonin is involved in the regulation of sleep, mood (antidepressant action), temperature, appetite (appetite suppressant effect). Overstimulation of 5-HT2 receptors could induce productive and negative symptoms of psychotic disorders. LSD or lysergide, agonist of 5-HT2 receptors and also of D1 and D2 dopaminergic receptors, has hallucinogenic properties. Serotonin, thanks to its various types of presynaptic and postsynaptic receptors, modulates the activity of other transmitters. It plays a determining part in adaptation. Effects of Excess or Low Serotonin Serotonin is involved in allergic and inflammatory symptoms and in certain diseases: Carcinoid syndrome: The carcinoid syndrome is caused by metastatic tumors of enterochromaffin cells of the digestive tract which secrete various compounds, in particular a great quantity of serotonin. It is characterized by diarrhea, flushes (accesses of cutaneous vasodilation followed by a vasoconstriction), dyspnea and sometimes a damage to cardiac valves. The biological diagnosis of these tumors is based on the increase in serotonin concentration in blood and on the excretion of abnormal amounts of 5-hydroxy-indolacetic acid, 5-HIAA, in urines. Migraine: Migraine is a disease characterized by repeated accesses of headache in which vasomotor phenomena and serotonin play a determining part. In the first prodromic phase, there is a vasoconstriction, and in the second painful phase, a vasodilation. This vasodilation is reduced by vasoconstrictive drugs. Myocardial ischemia: Serotonin released from platelets seems to worsen the myocardial ischemia by vasoconstriction. Hallucinations occur due to increased levels of Serotonin. Generalized anxiety disorder People with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) experience excessive worry that causes problems at work and in the maintenance of daily responsibilities. Evidence suggests that GAD involves several neurotransmitter systems in the brain, including norepinephrine and serotonin. Deficiencies or excessive intake of certain dietary minerals and vitamins can disrupt the level of serotonin, causing disruptions in the production or reuptake processes surrounding serotonin. Several drugs that affect the serotonin system Several classes of drugs target the 5-HT system, including some antidepressants, antipsychotics, anxiolytics, antiemetics, and antimigraine drugs, as well as the psychedelic drugs and empathogens. When Serotonin is low, certain problems with concentration and attention can be experienced. People become scatterbrained and poorly organized. It takes longer to do things because of poor planning. When Serotonin is moderately low, the following symptoms and behaviours have been observed: Chronic fatigue. Despite sleeping extra hours and naps, fatigue remains. There is a sense of being worn out Sleep disturbance. Appetite disturbance is present, usually in two types. There is a loss of appetite and subsequent weight loss or a craving for sweets and carbohydrates when the brain is trying to make more Serotonin. Total loss of sexual interest is present. In fact, there is loss of interest in everything, including those activities and interests that have been enjoyed in the past. Social withdrawal is common not answering the phone, rarely leaving the house/apartment, stop calling friends and family, and withdrawal from social events. Emotional sadness and frequent crying spells are common. Self-esteem and self-confidence are low. Body sensations, due to Serotonins role as a body regulator, include hot flushes and temperature changes, headaches, and stomach distress. Clinical Depression This is perhaps the most common mental health problem encountered in practice. One in four adults will experience clinical depression within their lifetime. Serotonin acts as an important feel-good neurotransmitter, sending signals that an individual is relaxed and happy. In the absence of serotonin, patients feel sad and unwell and may even experience fear, anxiety and physical discomfort. serotonin acts as an important feel-good neurotransmitter, sending signals that an individual is relaxed and happy. In the absence of serotonin, patients feel sad and unwell and may even experience fear, anxiety and physical discomfort. Treatment for depression, as might be expected, involves increasing levels of Serotonin in the brain. Since the mid-eighties, medications have been available that attempt to specifically target and increase Serotonin. Known as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), these medications such as Prozac, Zoloft, and Paxil are felt to work by making more Serotonin available in the brain. Like all neurotransmitters, we can have too much Serotonin. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder The American Academy of Family Physicians explains that one of the disorders categorized as a serotonin deficiency-related illness is obsessive-compulsive disorder. In this psychiatric condition, patients feel obsessed with certain issues, like cleanliness or order, and are therefore compelled to engage in what they perceive as related behaviors, including rigorous and repetitive cleaning or hand washing. Researchers have determined that low levels of serotonin in the brain are responsible for many cases of obsessive-compulsive disorder, and physicians prescribe pharmaceuticals that help increase brain levels of serotonin. These drugs help reduce or relieve symptoms entirely, allowing individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder to live normal lives. Serotonin Syndrome While elevated levels of Serotonin produce a sense of well-being, bliss, and oneness with the universe too much Serotonin can produce a life-threatening condition known as Serotonin Syndrome (SS).Likely to occur by accident by combining two Serotonin-increasing medications or substances. These are some of its symptoms: Cognitive mental confusion, hypomania, agitation, headache, coma Autonomic shivering, sweating, fever, hypertension, tachycardia, nausea, diarrhea Somatic myoclonus/clonus (muscle twitching), hyperreflexia, tremor Emergency medical treatment is required, utilizing medications that neutralize or block the action of Serotonin as the treatment for Serotonin Syndrome (SS). Discontinuation syndrome Antidepressants such as SSRIs have some dependence producing effects, most notably a withdrawal syndrome. Their dependence producing properties (depending on the antidepressant) may not be as significant as other psychotropic drugs such as benzodiazepines, however, withdrawal symptoms nonetheless may be quite severe and even debilitating. SSRIs have little abuse potential, but discontinuation can produce disturbing withdrawal symptoms that may not be able to be distinguished from a reoccurrence of the original illness: Sexual side effects Cardiac side effects Suicide risk Post SSRI sexual dysfunction Aggression Permanent nuerophysiological changes Persistent pulmonary hypertension Bleeding tendencies Applications of Serotonin SSRIs Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly used as first-line therapy to treat mood disorders due to their demonstrated efficacy, safety, and tolerability profiles. SSRIs may play an intricate role in treating hormone-mediated disorders that disturb the quality of life for women. Selected uses of SSRIs, specifically in the treatment of hot flashes, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and postpartum depression, are explored in this article. Data from several studies support the use of SSRIs in these conditions, and therefore, these agents have the potential to significantly improve mood, cognitive function, physical symptoms, and social functioning in patients with these disorders. In addition, SSRIs may prove to be viable alternatives to current therapies that may be contraindicated, poorly tolerated, or lack efficacy in patients with these disorders. Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome PTSD is an anxiety disorder affecting individuals who have been exposed to a disastrous event, which may have threatened their lives or included witnessing tragic harm being afflicted. This disorder is most often related to individuals who have experienced combat. Patients are treated with an SSRI-Selective Serotonin Receptacle Inhibitors that have a calming effect on the body. The result for the patient is a calming effect on the body and reduction in the feeling of anxiety and aggression. Fibromyalagia Fibromyalgia is a disorder characterized by widespread pain of the muscles and tendons accompanied by varied tender points all over the body and general fatigue. Fibromyalgia affects more women than men and occurs in 2 percent of the population in the United States. As serotonin is a pain-fighting hormone, it is frequently used to treat fibromyalgia. Many medical professionals agree fibromyalgia is caused by low levels of serotonin. Besides taking supplements, serotonin can be taken from natural sources of tryptophan. Tryptophan is an amino acid that aids in the bodys production of serotonin and is found in soy, turkey, chicken, halibut, beans and cheddar cheese. General Stress Serotonins mood regulating neurotransmitters help alleviate stress in sufferers. People suffering from chronic stress benefit from supplementing their regular diet with serotonin, or tryptophan to increase its production. In some cases, using lavender can induce feelings of calm and happiness. Known as a feel good hormone, serotonin is actually lowered by high levels of stress and therefore must be added back. Ways to increase serotonin levels: Eat healthy Free Range Turkey Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that is present, in different amounts, in all protein foods. This amino acid is the building block for the neurotransmitter serotonin. Flaxseed/ Flaxseed oil As well as being great for fat loss, flaxseeds are great foods that raise serotonin levels because they contain both tryptophan and high levels of omega 3 fatty acids. 60 percent of the brain is made of structural fats, and omega 3 fatty acids make up a large proportion of brain nerve cells. Wild Fish and Sea food = Fatty fish like wild salmon, sardines and herring are rich in oils containing the essential fats EPA and DHA. Both of these long chain fats have been shown in trials both to smooth the mood swings of bipolar disorder and to ease regular depression. Whey protein = Whey protein has gained a greater and greater reputation as a super-food over recent years. Whey has been shown to regulate appetite, improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar levels, bolster the immune system and has been shown to be the ideal protein source to use around workout time. Bananas High quality Eggs Sour Cherries Free Range Beef Dark Chocolate Cocoa is well known to increase serotonin levels in the brain the trick is not to eat so much that you crash a few hours later. Similarly most chocolate is clearly high in sugar and will spike blood sugar levels causing serotonin levels to plummet when your blood sugar crashes.