Management Essay

Essay Title: Suggest ways in which managers can choose to manage diversity in the workplace. Illustrate with examples from organisational practice. Gilmore, Williams et al, 2009. Human Resource Management. New York: Oxford University. Summary This book not only describes the knowledge of human resource management (HRM) but also illustrates numerous interesting examples with further discussion, such as discussion questions and case study that link the theories and practices. In chapter 11, it mainly discusses the equality, diversity, and dignity at work with real cases, it also provides the background of diversity and the main pieces of UK equality laws. Authority The book was written by Sarah Gilmore and Steve Williams. They are two principal lecturers at the University of Portsmouth in the UK. Dr. Gilmore’s research interests are HRM, training and development and psychoanalysis. In addition, Dr. Williams co-authored Human Resource Management and other three books. For instance, Contemporary Employment Relations: a Critical Introduction (Oxford University Press, 2nd edition, 2010). Two authors both have academic background and relate in those fields. Currency The book was published in 2009. It is current enough for my research. Accuracy This book includes abundant references, it not only states the knowledge of theoretical side but also provides practical aspects such as the real case of Tesco. On the other hand, this book have many information related the Internet sources that would be lower reliable than other information. Readership Managers would read it because it would help readers to improve the knowledge about this field. Relevance The information about the UK equality law is vital important for my research. It completed my whole picture of essay. Due to, in my research the legislation is a main element to reduce the discriminations in the workplace.

Discuss the training requirements for Higher Level Teaching Assistants Essay

Higher level teaching assistants (HLTAs) have an increased level of responsibility. They usually undertake more complex tasks and tend to work more independently than other classroom-based staff. Under the direction of a teacher, they often plan, prepare and deliver learning activities to individual pupils, groups and (in the short term) whole classes. They also assess, record and report on pupils’ progress. They act as a special assistant for a specific subject (f.e. literacy, ICT, sign language), group (young children, teenagers, special needs, gifted and talented) or department and help develop support materials. In order to do this effectively, the HLTA must understand the aims, content, teaching strategies and intended outcomes. They likewise need to have a solid knowledge of the curriculum to make sure they teach to a high standard as well as a diverse portfolio of learning strategies and styles to enable each pupil to fulfil their potential. HLTAs should always have hig h expectations of all their pupils and respect them whatever their background (be it cultural, social, religious, linguistic or ethnic). It is expected that they support the inclusion of all pupils in the learning activities in which they are involved. HLTAs should also be able to work collaboratively with their colleagues and to liaise sensitively with parents and carers, acknowledging their role in pupils’ learning. HLTAs should be aware of the legal framework underpinning teaching and learning and although not required to have a detailed knowledge of it, HLTAs should be aware of their statutory responsibilities and where to gain information, support and assistance when and if they need it.  They should be familiar with their school policies and procedures, f.e. equal opportunities policy or procedures for health and safety. They should know the legal definition of Special Educational Needs and be familiar with the guidance about meeting SEN given in the SEN Code of Practice. HLTA are also required to achieve a nationally recognised qualification at level 2 or above in English / literacy and maths / numeracy to demonstrate that they are confident in these subjects and in teaching them to others. It is also required that HLTAs have a sound knowledge of ICT to advance their pupils’ learning and to be able to use ICT tools for their own as well as the pupils’ benefit. The term ICT i s wide-ranging and includes internet, interactive whiteboards, cameras, printers, scanners, video and DVD. HLTAs should be familiar with age-related expectations of students, including being able to discuss development stages form birth to teenager including speech and language stages. To become an HLTA, the candidate must demonstrate that he / she has the skills, knowledge and experience to take on the role and that he / she is familiar and understands all 33 nationally agreed professional standards. Furthermore, he / she should also have previous experience of working with children of a relevant age. Last but not least, each candidate needs to have a recent enhanced DBS check done to comply with the UK legal requirements.

Case study 3 whole foods Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

3 whole foods - Case Study Example Whole Food Market Inc. operations are fully supported by its headquarters, distribution centers, commissary kitchens, regional offices, meat and produce procurement centers, bake-house facilities, as well as specialized tea and coffee procurement and roasting facilities (Whole Foods Market, Inc.). Whole Food Market Inc. deals in a variety of products that include meat, sea food, grocery, catering and prepared foods, cheese, tea, beer, coffee, body care, nutritional supplements, as well as lifestyle products such as pet and household products. Whole Food Market Inc. 365 and 365 Organic Every Day Value trademarks account for more than half of its trademark products. Other trademark brands include the Whole family trademark brands such as Whole Catch, Whole Foods Market, Whole Living, Whole Paws, Whole Pantry and Whole Fields, Engine 2, Nature’s Rancher, Allegro Coffee and Well-shire Farms (Whole Foods Market, Inc.). Whole Food Market Inc. also has a specialized health approach known as Health Starts Here. This approach is based on four simple facets aimed at building better meals. These facets entail Healthy Fats, Plant Strong, Whole Food, and Nutrient Dense. All in all, Whole Food Market Inc. is devoted towards promoting a healthy living by offering products that are free from artificial preservatives, color, flavor, and chemicals (Whole Foods Market,

Nursing research Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 3

Nursing research - Essay Example Savory and Bennett (2006) noted that effective management of pain starts with ensuring accuracy during the assessment and evaluation of pain in children. While the most fundamental approach of evaluating and assessing pain is through self-reporting, it is evident that children are not able to communicate the pain they experienced to their mothers and healthcare professionals. In effect, Savory and Bennett (2006) identifies the importance of effective training of nurses who took care of children in order to ensure that the nurses understood the behavioral and physiological approach towards assessment and evaluation of pain in children, which underlines the importance of a pain nurse who will be visiting the wards each day. On the other hand, Twycross (2010) identified the importance of a pain nurse visiting the pediatric ward and noted that the nurse provides support to other nurses in the ward to make decisions regarding the assessment and evaluation of pain in children. In effect, t he pain nurse reduces stress associated with decision-making in regard to the intervention measures that the nurses use to asses, control, and manage pain in children. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American Pain Society (APS) (2001) noted that effective pain management should â€Å"involve families and tailor interventions to the individual child† (p.794). In this regard, tailoring the interventions to the individual child requires the parents input since the parents understand their children more than the healthcare practitioners understood these children under their care. In support of this proposition, Savory and Bennett (2006) noted that parents can provide nurses with their children’s â€Å"likes and dislikes, hobbies, and home environment† in order to tailor the intervention to the individual child. On the other hand, it is evident that parents understand the level of their child’s cognition and they have an existing trusting rela tionship with the children. In effect, parents play an important role of helping the nurses assess their children’s pain. Conversely, it is evident that parents provide the essential therapeutic touch during the process of pain management and control by comforting their children. In effect, this improves the management and control of pain in children. Internal and external validity Twycross (2011) study was qualitative in nature and involved carrying out a literature review using the British Nursing Index, CINAHL, and Medline in order to develop the literature. In effect, the findings of the research have both internal and external validity since the literature conducted used peer-reviewed articles published in the last fifteen years before the research study. In line with this, the study evaluated pain assessment procedures, pain control procedures, and pain management approaches used in children. Importantly, the pain management approaches that the research provided are app licable in all children regardless of their location or any other prevailing factors such as race, ethnicity, and their parents’ economic class. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American Pain Society (APS) (2001) carried a similar research study to Twycross in terms of the research design. In line with this, the researchers engaged in carrying out the study investigated the issue of pain management

Prospective strategy for Copyfix Inc Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Prospective strategy for Copyfix Inc - Essay Example A lack of communication will also result in management becoming distant from the shop floor, and this is where all the work is carried out. The lack of communication has manifested itself in the management area and the production area. For instance: A look at the organisation chart revealed that the departments were fragmented and isolated from the shop floor. This resulted in the decision making excluding those who knew the processes. This isolation also resulted in inter-departmental conflicts, as each department was not aware of the other's roles and responsibilities, which had led to a series of problems. There are no clear lines of communication between managers with each of them reporting to one individual, and so there really is not much scope for discussion. This organisation is lacking in strategy as decisions are not thought out and rather spontaneous. For instance, a proposal was put forward that 50% of profits go towards shareholders. This figure does seem too high, and there is no mention of any discussion about this issue or where this proposal came from. The main emphasis seems to be on making the shareholders and not on improving products they manufacture. A long term strategy that is focussed is therefore required to help with managing the cash flow problem, as profits have to be diverted to the organisation in the first instance. The lack of a strategy has also resulted in massive quality problems at this organisation, and as a manufacturing organisation, the importance of quality cannot be emphasised (Hall 1987). The organisation is due to pay penalties for environmental standards, as their equipment and production line did not meet the required standards. Whilst this is tied in with strategy, as in value and quality are not built into the process, it is also a communication problem as it has not been addressed and remained undetected. Failure to build in quality will result in financial wastage (Slack et al 1997) which the new executive board are keen to avoid. The previous board also stated that they were old and had been with the organisation for a while and this may have clouded their judgement and affected the organisation. This is a call for new management styles and leadership, and the organisation really needs to look at major changes. The chair of the executive board was rotated on a regular basis and this resulted in an approach to the strategy that was inconsistent as the chair was never stayed in post long enough to see any changes or projects carried through to completion, which impacted on feedback, as the organisation has no way of finding out how well their systems are. The short-term costs also do not build loyalty, trust and are a disincentive to team working (Bartol and Martin 1998). Sales and Marketing This organisation is not maximising its marketing and sales, which is what gets their product sold. The graphs indicate that revenue is evening out, which means it is time to innovate, by either improving the product or introducing a new product (Slack et al 1998). However, this ties in with quality and it is evident that the lack of quality assurance

How and why did the U.S. emerge as a world superpower between World Essay

How and why did the U.S. emerge as a world superpower between World War Two and 1991 - Essay Example America gained its super power status immediately after the Second World War which saw America and the Soviet Union emerges stronger from the war than before they entered. The period between world war two and 1991 saw major events take place that led to the decline of previous great powers to the emergence of new superpowers. This was the â€Å"cold war† period. Cold war was a state of military and political tension between western bloc and eastern bloc. The western bloc was led by America and its NATO allies while the eastern bloc was led by the Soviet Union and its allies who were in the Warsaw pact. The war was described as â€Å"cold† because it was marked with no large scale direct fights but with regional wars that were supported with the two blocs. Some of the countries that experienced wars were Afghanistan, Vietnam, and Korea. Cold war was defined by several events that prompted the two superpowers to demonstrate their influence in their allied countries. Some of the events that shaped this war were consolidation of the eastern states by the Soviet Union which saw America retaliate by giving financial and military aid to the anti-communist side in the Greek civil war. Other events that marked this period are the Chinese civil war, Korean War, Cuban missile crisis, berlin crisis, Suez crisis and the Vietnam War. These events shaped the cold war and hence bringing to the fore the emergence of America as the superpower with the dissolution of the Soviet Union. The subsequent paragraphs will explore how and why America gained the superpower status between the period after world war two and 1991. Most of the war was fought far away from America’s boundaries. This gave it a competitive advantage over the other powers like Britain, France, and Germany who were close or experienced the war on their soil. With the war taking place away from their national boundaries, America did not suffer major losses and destruction

PESTLE Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

PESTLE Analysis - Essay Example analysis it is the hope of this particular author that the reader will gain a more informed and valuable understanding in terms of the way in which this particular industry operates and what its determinant factors are. In terms of the political influences and dynamics of the US automotive industry, it must be understood that a significant shift has occurred over the past several years. Beginning with the 2007/2008 economic downturn, the United States government made it clear and apparent that it was willing to step in and offer to be a lender of last resort for the struggling domestic auto manufacturers. This was, at least at that time, an unprecedented move that further cemented the relationship that the political system had to the industrial base of United States auto manufacturing (Townes, 2011). Another noted political involvement that the government has with the automotive industry is in terms of the way in which very large domestic orders are fulfilled by the three major US automotive manufacturers; Dodge, Ford, and General Motors (Hoke, 2011). As the United States government purchases only domestic made automobiles to fulfill its fleet inventory needs and to provide equipment for US personnel stationed overseas in embassies and other foreign environments, the interrelationship and involvement that the political and governmental process has to the automotive manufacturing sector is profound and connected at various points (Roberts, 2014). As indicated previously, the past six years have been an extraordinarily difficult period of time for domestic auto manufacturers. This is as a result of the fact that that their overall demand has dropped to record lows and the ability of consumers to afford and purchase new products has dropped commensurately. However, the past year has indicated a situation in which increasing demand has once again been exhibited and there is a steady but determinant increase in consumer interest for new products, new technologies,

Contemporary management issues Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words - 3

Contemporary management issues - Essay Example Though some of these values evolve to embrace the changing times and others may interpret it differently under different situation but the universal acceptance of what is right and what is wrong has given them a strong foothold to withstand the adversities of the time. Moral and ethical dilemmas are becoming frequent in one’s professional life. The cut throat competition coupled with diverse and multicultural fabric of the society, makes it difficult for a person to maintain a high level of personal integrity. Nonetheless, barring serious acts of omission and commission, the activities or behaviour that is not illegal has literally become a fact of life with the people making it very difficult to distinguish between the behaviour that persons think ethical or unethical. The main reason being that very often the personal values clash with the organization’s objectives and organization’s target based results. According to Joseph Badaracco, "We have all experienced situations in which our professional responsibilities unexpectedly come into conflict with our deepest values...we are caught in a conflict between right and right. And no matter which option we choose, we feel like weve come up short" (internet). The resolution of eth ical dilemma therefore requires a very careful consideration so that both the parties become gainers. Consequentialist ethics is defined as the acts or behaviour that is determined by the consequences of that act or behaviour which generally must be beneficial in content. Retailers take refuge in the consequentialist ethical code of conduct, in their support of the supply chain that provides flowers that are out of season at their point of sale in the United Kingdom. It is therefore important that to identify really unethical behaviour, one must be able to know whether that particular act or behaviour of the retailer is constitutionally unlawful or whether it is against the general code of values. Another most pertinent question is

Reading Plan Essay Example for Free

Reading Plan Essay Year 1 to 3: Reading Methodology: Oral Recitation Lesson * The Oral Recitation Lesson (ORL) is an instructional procedure that incorporates direct and indirect instruction during small-group reading instruction. ORL helps the teachers to use it easily with basal reading programs, especially with students who experience difficulty in learning to read. * ORL is a part of fluency improving reading program. The strategies of ORL will focus on improving fluency. This week we will focus on: a) ORL Format.Direct Instruction of ORL: Read, discuss, and analyze a story 1. The teacher reads the story aloud to the students. 2. After reading, the teacher works with students to discuss and analyze the story by constructing a story map that identifies the characters, setting, problem, events, and resolution. 3. The group uses the story map to write a brief summary that includes the critical information in the story. The teacher is careful to write down the students language.Indirect Instruction Component (5 minutes daily)Students reread the stories that they have read in the small group, direct instruction component of ORL. While students practice reading quietly to themselves, the teacher listens to individuals read to see if they have achieved master in word recognition (98% accurate) and fluency (75 words per minute in 2nd grade level text). | Reading plan for Year 4-5: Oral Recitation LessonYear 4: Follow Charlie and the chocolate factory (continue reading ahead)Year 5: Read Harry potter(continue reading ahead)How to use Oral Recitation Lesson technique: 1. Read a chapter and identify setting, problems, events and resolution. 2. Write a brief summary at the end of the week on the chapters read. 3. Teachers to follow Indirect Instruction Component mentioned previously to check the fluency and word recognition.Resource Material for Year 1: Ginn Reader (Level 6) â€Å"Time to Smile / Tales we like)Resource Material for Year 2: Ginn Reader (Level 8) â€Å" Through the year / Moonshine)Resource Material for Year 3: Ginn Reader (Level 8) â€Å" Festivals / Magical Tales)|

Steps in the Fracking Process Essay Example for Free

Steps in the Fracking Process Essay Step 6: Once the drilling gets about 500 feet above the shale formation, a downhole drilling motor with sophisticated measuring instruments begins the angle drilling creating a new horizontal path into the shale formation. Step 6: Once the drilling gets about 500 feet above the shale formation, a downhole drilling motor with sophisticated measuring instruments begins the angle drilling creating a new horizontal path into the shale formation. Step 4: The cement and casing are then pressure tested to ensure hydrocarbons and other fluids don’t seep out. Step 4: The cement and casing are then pressure tested to ensure hydrocarbons and other fluids don’t seep out. Step 3: Cement is then poured into this tubing throughout, displacing any remaining fluids and securing the casing in place. Step 3: Cement is then poured into this tubing throughout, displacing any remaining fluids and securing the casing in place. Step 2: The drill pipe and bit are removed and a steel â€Å"surface casing† tube is inserted into the well which stabilizes the well sides, creating a barrier. Step 2: The drill pipe and bit are removed and a steel â€Å"surface casing† tube is inserted into the well which stabilizes the well sides, creating a barrier. Step 1: Vertical well begins to be drilled with a drill pipe and drill bit past the ground water level a few thousand feet down. Step 1: Vertical well begins to be drilled with a drill pipe and drill bit past the ground water level a few thousand feet down. Steps In The Fracking Process Step 5: Both the drill pipe and drill bit are put back into the well and the drilling continues. Another layer of casing and cement is added for a second permanent behavior. The whole vertical drilling process costs about $663,000 Step 5: Both the drill pipe and drill bit are put back into the well and the drilling continues. Another layer of casing and cement is added for a second permanent behavior. The whole vertical drilling process costs about $663,000 Step 10: bridge plugs are inserted behind the fractures and the perforating tool continues to move backwards in the well whiles plugs are inserted behind each puncture in the shale. The entire fracturing process takes about $2.5 million. Step 10: bridge plugs are inserted behind the fractures and the perforating tool continues to move backwards in the well whiles plugs are inserted behind each puncture in the shale. The entire fracturing process takes about $2.5 million. Step 11: Plugs are then removed once all of the horizontal well has been punctured and the gas flows to the top of the well. Step 11: Plugs are then removed once all of the horizontal well has been punctured and the gas flows to the top of the well. Although we weren’t able to find exact figures for each of the steps, we did find that the entire process from beginning to end costs about $7 million dollars. Although we weren’t able to find exact figures for each of the steps, we did find that the entire process from beginning to end costs about $7 million dollars. Step 7: Once the desired horizontal path is at the desired length, the drill pipe and bit are removed and the casing and cement layers continue to the end of the well. The whole horizontal drilling process costs about $1.2 million. Step 7: Once the desired horizontal path is at the desired length, the drill pipe and bit are removed and the casing and cement layers continue to the end of the well. The whole horizontal drilling process costs about $1.2 million. Step 9: The tool is removed and fracturing fluid enters the well. The sand creates fractures in the shale and the fluid leaves with the sand remains in the fractures allowing the gas to flow into the well. Step 9: The tool is removed and fracturing fluid enters the well. The sand creates fractures in the shale and the fluid leaves with the sand remains in the fractures allowing the gas to flow into the well. Step 8: A perforating tool is inserted creating holes in the shale layer allowing hydrocarbons to the well stream. Step 8: A perforating tool is inserted creating holes in the shale layer allowing hydrocarbons to the well stream.

Deforestation Cause and Effects

Deforestation Cause and Effects Modern predictions and indicators paint a bleak outlook for the planet and unfortunately it is all due to human actions. Deforestation and the spread of barren, arid and useless land is increasing in pace and we are the only ones who can call it to a halt. The questions that need answering quickly before it is too late are how and when. When is obvious, unless we act immediately we will be too late, how is less clear but unless we find the answers soon then we could find ourselves left with nothing but a arid infertile desert of a planet and sooner than you might think. Perhaps we can blame the men who cut down or burn huge swathes of forest and watch the animals flee to die of starvation after their home and food supply has been destroyed, or those who profit from their actions. Only someone who was insane would do such a thing surely? You certainly wouldnt want to be associated with those that were involved in such wholesale destruction and slaughter and certainly wouldnt be involved yourself, right? Deforestation for Profit Forests contain many valuable natural resources and the land they cover is also valuable to an ever-increasing human population. People have been making use of these resources ever since we first appeared. Deforestation is a way of making a living, the timber can be sold, and the land can be used for growing crops or grazing herds or to provide land for homes and businesses. Why is this allowed to happen? Those people that are entrusted by us with the planet are those who are destroying it. Governments give permits and licenses to those who have the money to buy them they then strip the land and make their money. The governments are often poor and the land is more valuable to large corporations than used for conservation and tourism. But these governments are selling off the planets life support system and that cannot continue. We may be frustrated in the face of such insurmountable obstacles but we can challenge these large corporations by refusing to buy their products and lobby governments to protect forested areas. If enough people say no then they will be forced to act. The planet has been entrusted to all of us and it is up to us to save it even now at the 11th hour it isnt too late. Even small actions if done by enough people add up to a massive effect. Reversing Deforestation Nature on the whole is resilient and bounces back extremely fast if given the chance. However forests are slow to re grow and mature. Once the soil has been eroded it could take centuries for it to build up again and start supporting anywhere near the diversity of life it once did. Millions of species have been wiped out never to be seen again in fact most were never seen by human eyes before being driven to extinction. This does not mean we should not try to protect and restore these amazing and diverse habitats, which do so much for us and ask only to be left to exist in return. What is Deforestation? In recent times, mankind has felt the wrath of nature. More and more natural disasters are taking place due to human induced climate change. This has lead to an increasing awareness of our impact on the planet we call home and its natural resources. Forests are some of our most abused habitats due to the fact that wood is a raw material with a wide range of uses and fill virtually al of our basic needs particularly food, fuel and shelter. Another important influencing factor for deforestation is the need for more land, so forests are cleared to make way for industrial development, housing or agriculture (either livestock or crops) or even a dump. By Definition Deforestation is the clearing or removal of trees from an area of woodland or forest for many differing reason usually commercial. Deforestation usually doesnt apply to cases where the trees are replaced, usually as saplings, in the same or alternative location in order to replace those that were cut down. Also usually refers to large scale clearing of whole areas rather than limited or selective clearing. Man has cut down trees since we first appeared, changing and adapting the environment to suit our needs in order to provide the things we require to live successfully. For kindling, shelter, weapons and in more modern times paper, furniture and housing. Thousands upon thousands of acres of forest have disappeared worldwide to fill our insatiable appetite for wood and land, yet they also have to meet the demands of the vast majority of the worlds other species both plant and animal. Raising Consciousness Humans are roused to action when an issue directly affects them. This is undoubtedly the reason people are more aware than ever of the effects of deforestation as more and more people become affected by climate change and extreme weather events. It is these effects that are the most effective way of showing people the benefits forests provide and why it is so vital the little we have left be protected at all costs. The depletion of the forests has a number of detrimental effects on the environment and climate. There are two main thrusts to this argument. The first is the environmental services that forests provide such as maintaining our atmosphere and slowing global warming and protecting us from floods. The second is the need to ensure a reliable and sustainable supply of natural resources. I.e. if they are being used and managed properly and ensuring reforestation occurs. First the environmental benefits forests help maintain the balance of gases in the atmosphere particularly oxygen and carbon dioxide. The trees ability to take carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere and trap it is our most important weapon in the battle against climate change. Cutting down and burning trees releases the green house gas back into the atmosphere worsening the problem. It is these green house gases that are causing global warming and extreme weather events. In many cases the timber is simply burned to clear the land quickly which is the worst possible thing to do especially when it could be put to good use providing for those who might be in need of it. Finally woodland traps water and act as sponges when water levels are high reducing the chances of flooding. Why does Deforestation Happen? We are now learning the consequences of trying to battle against nature, yet change is slow and we are still abusing the natural world. With our knowledge we should be doing all we can to stop further deforestation so why does deforestation continue despite the harm we know it does to the environment and thus ourselves? The answers are not straightforward but undoubtedly lie with us and our desperate need for the resources the forest provides. The needs of a massive human population have to be met daily putting the natural world under enormous pressure. We constantly look for new ways to get what we need faster and more efficiently. But the more efficiently we exploit nature the quicker natural resources are used up and disappear. This leads to new ways of getting what we need or finding new resources to exploit depleting the natural world even faster, its a vicious cycle that leads to the devastation of our beautiful planet. The Global Man Made Phenomenon Man has been clearing woodland since ancient times but it is recently in the last century that the worlds forests and rainforests have been dramatically reduced shrinking in size year on year at an ever more furious pace. Until fairly recently there was little real opposition from the public or government as the seemed to be no real viable alternatives and so it continues to this day. Land is a finite commodity in a world with an ever-growing human population. Developed land is worth far more than forest so the forest is clear to make way for large-scale development and agriculture. Wood is unfortunately worth nothing standing growing in a forest but far more as a piece of paper, furniture or even a house. Profit driven by the high demand for these resources is the reason these forests are disappearing. There are many resources which can be gathered from the forest such as food and medicines though the main product is wood which has a wide variety of uses from paper to a building material and even as a fuel. With lumber having such a number of uses and a strong demand then it should have a strong impact on economic growth. But forest values are actually falling, a surprising trend given that forests are fast disappearing and mans propensity towards exploiting limited resources for profit. Why Does Deforestation Result in Devastation? Experts dont see deforestation as an all-bad thing as long as it is done in an environmentally sensitive and sustainable way. It is a matter of careful controlling how and where you clear areas of forest. A small area of clearing provides opportunities for opportunistic species and is quickly recolonized and breaks in the canopy quickly filled. Large areas take longer to recolonise and separate areas of forest previously joined. They also allow the wind and rain to erode the soil making recolonization by forest plants much harder. Rain forests typically have very thin soil which is held in place by the roots of the giant trees and with out which quickly disappears. Wildlife that lives in the forest cannot survive in the open and so has to retreat with the forest or if it cannot die. Under the canopy is a moist dank warm environment as the plants trap the heat and moisture from escaping, without these very specific conditions, which exist in few other places many species are unable to survive. So who is the culprit? You we all play a part in deforestation to a lesser or greater degree though the choices we make when shopping daily. We cant point the blame solely on governments and big corporations though they certainly play a big part but it is our willingness to block out the knowledge of where the things we buy come from and how they are produced that means they can carry on destroying the earth and it is unlikely to stop until we make it with our consumer choices. Effects of Deforestation Humans have always and probably always will depended on forests to a lesser or greater degree. Trees provide food, shelter from the elements and predators not just to humans but the vast majority of life on land. Unfortunately the forests resources and appeal is its downfall. Deforestation is probably one of the greatest challenges we face. We need the forests to maintain the atmosphere alongside the burning of fossil fuels our destruction of the forests is a major contributory factor to the rising levels of carbon dioxide and global warming, the effects of which we are only now beginning to feel. Large-scale deforestation for agricultural and industrial purposes transforms rich and diverse habitat in barren arid land. The resources are quickly repeated and another massive are of forest has to be destroyed to provide yet more. The damage to the land and soil has been done and little can grow on these areas once they have been finished with. Deforestation needs to be stopped before we end up with a planet that is little more than an arid wasteland incapable of supporting life. Effects of Deforestation on the Environment Rainforests are the richest and most diverse areas on the planet and are home to the vast majority of the worlds species, many yet to be seen or classified by science. Any one can wander into a rainforest and will fairly quickly discover a new species. This biodiversity took many millions of years to evolve and can be destroyed with the swipe of a powerful saw. There is no possibility of getting back the estimated 50,000 species that go extinct every year a that is increasing. The chance to explore this forest world is disappearing fast and wont come again once its gone, a chance future generations wont thank us for denying them. Not only are countless species being lost but also the chance to increase or knowledge of the world, chemicals and medicines unknown to science are out waiting to be discovered. The preservation of the rainforest also means the chance to explore these opportunities and make new discoveries and advance human knowledge. Effects of Deforestation on Society The indigenous people, whose home and way of life is turned upside down by the arrival of the lumber lorries, will feel much of the effects of deforestation. They survive by living in harmony with the forest and its inhabitants but are often forced to leave or change their way of living in order to survive. This displacement of people and the consequent loss of that culture makes the human race a little poorer. Those that live on the edges of the forest are also affected, as they can no longer gather resources from it for themselves. These people are unused to living in towns and cities a totally alien culture and are unlikely to have the money, skills or education to make a decent living having learned to live off the land. Nature cannot be completely replaced by our own efforts even after all our recent advances in technology she does it better than us. Nature serves us in far better ways than the best designed structures and industry, yet we treat her with nothing but contempt and unless we stop the consequences will be dire. Deforestation and Climate Change Throughout history forests have spread and retreated as the environment changed now they are fast disappearing. They shelter the vast majority of land animals and hold most of the land biodiversity. These beautiful and complex ecosystems are essential to the environment and help to regulate the atmosphere. Hence deforestation and climate change are closely connected and have the ability to control one another. Unfortunately the forests, which should be our first line of defense against rising carbon dioxide levels, are vanishing rapidly. 80% of our previously forested areas are gone drastically reducing the planets ability to absorb carbon dioxide and contributing to the high levels of the green house gas by releasing it after being cut down making the situation worse. The fact that deforestation can further affect the atmosphere should stir us into action to prevent any further reduction in the worlds forests. We will just be adding to the devastating effects of climate change if we dont take action to stop further deforestation. Major Carbon Storehouses It has become increasingly apparent that forests play a vital role in climate control by storing carbon and water and recycling it. It is a fact that the destruction of green areas is a contributory factor in climate change and eliminates their ability to regulate the climate. It has been estimate the 18% of all carbon emissions come from deforestation and we are effectively turning our prize weapon against global warming against ourselves instead. Mature forests are the largest stores of carbon dioxide though all plants store carbon. Other stores include the soil, vegetation frozen underneath the arctic permafrost even the algae in the sea. The world largest forests such as the Amazon represent our largest carbon stores, its destruction would undoubted lead to quick and devastating climate change. Carbon is released from plant life through burning and natural decay. Burning releases the carbon much faster and more efficiently than natural decay or rotting. If left to nature plants will rot slowly especially large trees and the carbon is often buried and the carbon trapped below ground where it slowly fossilizes to produce various compounds depending upon the conditions ranging from diamonds to fossil fuels over many millennia. This whole process traps the carbon and prevents it entering the atmosphere. Deforestation prevents this natural process from taking pace. Climate Change A combination of deforestation and the burning of fossil fuels releasing much larger amounts of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere than would occur naturally whilst simultaneously disabling the planets ability to absorb and cope with this influx in green house gases has lead to the current climate changes and noticeable global warming. The main effects of climate change have been a rise in temperature throughout the year leading to widespread environmental change species moving their ranges further north to follow the increase in temperature. Melting of the polar ice caps leads to a reduction in range for polar species. A consequent rise in sea levels leads to flooding of low lying land. More violent and extreme weather systems lead to the devastation of affected areas and causing huge loss of life. This isnt a prediction of what will happen in the future its happening now and maybe irreversible already. So now an immediate damage limitation exercise need to take place to ensure the climate doesnt get out of control this has to involve the protection and restoration of the worlds forests. Effects of deforestation. Retrieved Feb 15, 2010, from http://www.effects-of-deforestation.com/

Learning a New Language Essay -- Language Communication Cultural Essay

Learning a New Language Language is a matter that touches many American cultures. Cultures thrive on their languages and customs to define the people they are. However, second languages can divide not only people of a specific group but also members of a particular family. Several writers address the unvarying difficulty of learning a second language in America. Many rhetorical devices are used to sustain their assertions and to shape the reader. An Asian-American author speaks about multilingualism in American today. Tan (2002) uses rhetorical devices to support her claims about her frustrations with a mother who does not speak English very well. Throughout this paper, I will analyze Tan’s cause-and-effect structure, personal experiences, and pathos appeal. This essay will show how Tan supports her claim through these rhetorical elements. Tan (2002) shows cause-and-effect structure throughout the text. During her copy, Tan uses this rhetorical element to show her readers how hard it was for her to grow up knowing two languages in America. The following selection from Tan (2002) shows how cause-and-effect is used in her example: â€Å"I know this for a fact, because when I was growing up, my mother’s 1) â€Å"limited† English limited 2) my perception of her. I was 3) ashamed of her English. I believed that her English reflected the quality of what she had to say. That is, because she expressed them 4) imperfectly her thoughts were imperfect.† (37) â€Å"I think my mother’s English almost had an effect on 5) limiting my possibilities in life as well. Sociologists and linguists probably will tell you that a person’s developing language skills are more influenced by peers. But I do think that the language spoken in the fa... ...that she is happy in the end and therefore appeals to the reader’s emotions. Tan (2002) structures her claims about her bilingual life around cause-and-effects, personal experiences, and pathos appeals. She uses cause-and-effect to show how events in her past have led up to the person she is today. She uses personal experiences to explain where she is coming form when she shows her frustration about her family. Tan uses a pathos appeal to identify with her reader so they understand through their emotions how she really feels about her mother. Through her explanations and identifications, Tan shows how growing up in a multilingual family can change someone in to a more accommodating person. References Tan, Amy. â€Å"Mother Tongue.† Constructing Others, Constructing Ourselves; a reader. Sibylle Gruber. Dubuque, IA: Kendall/Hunt, 2002. 35-39

The Apprenticeship Of Duddy Kravitz :: essays research papers

The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz by Mordecai Richler In the novel The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz, Mordecai Richler punishes Duddy for his wrongs against others in several ways. Each punishment fits the crime, and there is an irony about each one. The three punishments inflicted on Duddy at the end of the novel are the loss of Simcha's love, the loss of his friends, and the absence of any funds to build on his property. The loss of Simcha's love is a devastating blow for Duddy. This is evident when Duddy confronts Yvette and asks her, â€Å" Why did you go to my grandfather? Of all the people in the world, he's the only one† (Richler, 1959, 313). Duddy did everything he could to get this land because his grandfather said that 'A man without land is nobody'. Duddy, in his own mind, did it all for Simcha, to earn his love and respect and in the end, he had neither. The loss of Simcha's love did not happen for nothing. It happened because of the way in which Duddy had gone about acquiring his land. Yvette told Simcha, and Simcha did not approve. He was, in fact, extremely disappointed with Duddy. His disappointment is shown when he tells Duddy, I can see what you have planned for me, Duddel. You'll be good to me. You'd give me everything I wanted. and that would settle your conscience when you went out to swindle others. (Richler 1959, 312) The betrayal of Yvette, her speaking to Simcha, and the loss of hers and Virgil's friendships also punishes Duddy. They are the only two people in the world who ever loved him for himself, and didn't want anything but his love in return. In the loss of their friendships, Duddy is being punished for his rotten treatment of other people, even his only friends. Duddy may not even know what he has lost, but he will one day, when he misses having someone to share his accomplishments and failures with, like he has had up until now. The loss of things human is not the only punishment inflicted on Duddy. He also ends up without money left to build anything on the land he has purchased. This is punishment for all the low down, underhanded things he had to do to get the money to buy the land. The irony of this is after doing everything imaginable to get his money, such as attempted blackmail, selling his uncle The Apprenticeship Of Duddy Kravitz :: essays research papers The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz by Mordecai Richler In the novel The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz, Mordecai Richler punishes Duddy for his wrongs against others in several ways. Each punishment fits the crime, and there is an irony about each one. The three punishments inflicted on Duddy at the end of the novel are the loss of Simcha's love, the loss of his friends, and the absence of any funds to build on his property. The loss of Simcha's love is a devastating blow for Duddy. This is evident when Duddy confronts Yvette and asks her, â€Å" Why did you go to my grandfather? Of all the people in the world, he's the only one† (Richler, 1959, 313). Duddy did everything he could to get this land because his grandfather said that 'A man without land is nobody'. Duddy, in his own mind, did it all for Simcha, to earn his love and respect and in the end, he had neither. The loss of Simcha's love did not happen for nothing. It happened because of the way in which Duddy had gone about acquiring his land. Yvette told Simcha, and Simcha did not approve. He was, in fact, extremely disappointed with Duddy. His disappointment is shown when he tells Duddy, I can see what you have planned for me, Duddel. You'll be good to me. You'd give me everything I wanted. and that would settle your conscience when you went out to swindle others. (Richler 1959, 312) The betrayal of Yvette, her speaking to Simcha, and the loss of hers and Virgil's friendships also punishes Duddy. They are the only two people in the world who ever loved him for himself, and didn't want anything but his love in return. In the loss of their friendships, Duddy is being punished for his rotten treatment of other people, even his only friends. Duddy may not even know what he has lost, but he will one day, when he misses having someone to share his accomplishments and failures with, like he has had up until now. The loss of things human is not the only punishment inflicted on Duddy. He also ends up without money left to build anything on the land he has purchased. This is punishment for all the low down, underhanded things he had to do to get the money to buy the land. The irony of this is after doing everything imaginable to get his money, such as attempted blackmail, selling his uncle

Negotiations: Methodologies for Unilateral and Collaborative Situations

Negotiation is the preferred method of communication instead because conflict creates unwanted effects to a working relationship. The articles outlined three essential uses and/or strategies of three different authors whom approach to negotiation fit their industries as well as their creative abilities. In Resolving Real Estate Issues, Gerald M. Levy (1999) addresses four primary steps of negotiation: pre-negotiation, presentation and negotiation, intense, agreement and closing phrase (p. 2). The outline is understandable and workable in any industry in which negotiation is relied upon for optimal results. Meadow discussed the basis of negotiation being an art and science that mixes a party’s ability to bargain with their opponents. The issues stated within the article addressed the basic needs of any individual involved; for instance, â€Å"skilled negotiators can separate the conceptual part of negotiation (the â€Å"science†) from the behavioral aspects of negotiation (the â€Å"art†) to solve the underlying problem that a lawsuit represents (Meadow 1).† This act of negotiation is very intriguing because you are approaching the aspect of negotiation in a law setting in which rules are outlined by the court, but your use of tactics are up to you and your opponents. In The Art and Science of Problem-Solving Negotiation, Meadow (1999) uses detailed examples to corner a creative negotiator’s ability to overthrow sessions (p.2). These tactics fit their personality and the structure increases negotiator’s chances of success in negotiations. Shaping perceptions of alternatives sets in the pre-negotiation phase of negotiation can lower the limits of acceptable agreements. For example, a web design company needs a copywriter with writing skills to boost their profits. The market price for a freelance writer is roughly $20/article, but they are offering a per project basis. In this negotiation, a copywriter will pull for the market price or higher due to years of professional experience. This is an example of Meadow’s (1999) belief in shaping the competition’s objectives to fit that of one’s intentions (p. 5). Without the proper game plan, the art and science of negotiation goes out of the window once more problems arise. As with my example, a negotiator can make commitments, threats, and focal points stick all irrelevant issues aside for a reasonable bargaining set to continue its process within a negotiation. This follows from their previous example. Their ability to highlight this point will make the company re-arrange their current ideal of what a copywriter should be paid per article. Not that it is a threat, but it is a reasonable explanation of why they need to pay the amount instead of losing the writer. In Resolving Real Estate Issues, Gerald Levy (1999) practices influencing aspirations are higher suggestions in return for a need can generate better results (p.2). Once I understand the dynamics and true market price of a copywriter, I may want more for their work. The web design company is trying to use their talents at a cheap price so I will leave them alone for a set period of time to see if their position changes. By contacting their competition about copywriter salaries, I can gain leverage by addressing it in our next meeting. I am boosting their aspirations to receive the payment I deserve and ‘more’ for their services. After I receive this information, I can develop a stronger position in what I deserve. Meadow (1999) and Levy (1999) believe that taking a position will cause an opponent to withdraw from their first perspective of the situation (p. 1 and 3). If one chooses to use strong positions, they must stand firm within decision making so opponents will understand and not budge from previous arguments. For example, if I were asked to accept a lower salary, I will not agree with the web design company and leave the negotiations. This puts my services as a valuable mean for a company’s success in their market. It is very important to keep this in mind while developing a stronger argument for future negotiations. I believe I must remain strong during these steps into a negotiation because companies try to manipulate prospects. These authors were correct in establishing a strong position for unilateral and collaborative situations. In order to create a better outcome on each end, it should remain essential to practice the art of negotiation without budging to the intense negotiation strategies thrown within the conflict. The preferred methods of Meadow (1999) and Levy (1999) can be implemented in numerous settings; one’s flexibility to establish rapport with an opponent without harming or burning bridges is very important (p.3). Meadow’s (1999) objectives can act as repetitive methodology to instruct new negotiators in the law scene. Many other methods can be helpful, but the ideal argumentation comes from the negotiator’s overall motivations. References Cited Menkel-Meadow, Carrie (June 1999). â€Å"The art and science of problem-solving negotiation.† Trial. Washington, p. 1- 7. Levy, Gerald M. (Fall 1999). Resolving Real Estate Issues. Real Estate Issues. Chicago.   Vol. 24, p.1-8.   

Natural and Moral Man in History

Immanuel Kant was one of the principal names and possibly the chief in the Western rationalism and enlightenment progress in the 18th century. He is the father of dualism in existence of ‘man and mind’. According to him, first, man has a natural side wherein his feelings or thoughts, inclination, desires, field of consciousness and emotions are incorporated. This possesses man to be under the natural laws, just like other creatures, but that is not enough to make him consider as human because what makes man human possessing will is his mental abilities, and this lifted him to be superior and better than to all other creatures.  Animals are born of whatever means are necessary for them to live as if â€Å"another intelligence had thought of everything they need† like horns or claws or teeth and needed knowledge and instincts. But man is born as â€Å"a creature gathering all the deprivations in his ego†. Man, equipped with intelligence and a â€Å"nature that doesn’t do anything unnecessary and doesn’t waste any material used for the attainment of goals†, must accomplish, himself, everything above the mechanical order of his animal existence without following his instincts. Because it is naturally, from the very beginning of his existence is equipped with intelligence which can be inherited from the parents and also the free will which only depends on his intelligence. He himself controls all his actions, because he depends on his consciousness about something.Kant’s case of existence has an area of â€Å"showing the qualities† which has been the subject of all body of systematic knowledge which are based on facts, namely, the part, showing the well-defined known attributes. And the other area is composed of the â€Å"metaphysical core†. In which one cannot learn if it is not perceived. This is only possible by developing the character or the personality of an individual. For example, the rel igion which is a matter of man’s basic make-up but not merely with its natural knowledge where he needs to supply all for himself from his basic needs like food he will eat up to clothing and any other thing he will use for his own protection.  According to Kant, man was brought out to this world with talents and skills but he still need to enhance those by trainings and by acquiring education. Man has a so called human growth and development stages which necessitates them to be trained and cared by other persons or simply by their parents. As mentioned by Aristotle, man is a rational being, which can discover lot of things by its own efforts of thinking and hard work. This made the transfer and preservation of discoveries and knowledge for future use. Due to learning and education, the species character of animal was develop to a man that clearly classify us from other lower forms, thus made man inclined to humanity and the purpose of existence. This is the barrier of huma ns to the unconscious minded creature. Due to discipline acquired from the human environment prevented man to become uncultivated or wild.From the existence, animals are naturally equipped with the capabilities to survive from their first breath. But they are not provided with aptitudes for good and evil. Meaning, an animal is not aware of the good and bad, while a human possesses aptitude for good and evil, because we are with moral standards. As man was given good education, his actions will probably show good things. Apparently, morality shall be learned and acted freely but away from evil sources. In short, the factors that makes a man a human is his intelligence and its discovery that depends on education.Kant’s morality is based on the off-putting of the physical-emotional side of man. He put both man and existence into two (2) different spheres, he thought that the principles of man must be traditional that should be found in man’s own being and conscience. As s aid by Kant, the intelligence that determines our conscience or action and direction is the practical intelligence that makes a man a human through its activities. Morality is very important. The universal and unchangeable moral honorable purposes in the mind make man analyze, then it will convert the animal side of a man into human.Practical intelligence or our will assigns us duties. These are duties directed toward realizing the purposes mentioned. He also alienated man as a â€Å"natural creature† and â€Å"an independent intelligent creature† into two existences; the visible world and the independent realm of intelligence. He thought that man is the center of everything. He focused on man’s humanity and happiness, also in the progress of changes and development of intelligence based on the universal and moral standards found in the conscience.Cosmopolitanism and Perpetual Peace by Immanuel KantThe ideal center of cosmopolitanism is that all human beings bel ong to a single community that is needed to be cultivated. According to Kant, all rational beings are members in a moral community which is similar to a republic that shares equality, freedom and independence. They are governing by the laws of morality, grounded in reason.   He advocated the weakest form of international legal order, namely, league of nation, or the so called uniting of all nations. From his book of Perpetual Peace, he argued that world-wide peace can be attaining by the internal organization of the state which is accord to the republican principles.Some reacted negatively against the proposition of Immanuel Kant, due to its inconsistency. He also presented the third sphere of the public law, which is the cosmopolitan law, in which, both the state and every citizen living in it have the rights as citizen’s of earth, rather than as a citizen of a specific state. Under moral cosmopolitanism is the valued equality of everyone most probably in terms of gender, this separated them from slavery, colonial exploitation, hierarchy of feudalism and tutelage of various sorts. Republic and its Relation to Nature and Morality A republic shares equality, freedom and independence. They are governed by the laws of morality, grounded in reason. Where every individual living in the same state is given rights, freedom, acceptance and independence. It is a state in which the sovereignty resides in the people or a certain portion of the people, and the legislative and administrative powers are lodged in officers elected by and representing the people; a representative democracy. It is applied to almost every from of government except kingdoms, empires and dictatorships. Meaning, it is a community of persons working freely in or devoted to the same cause.A republic is composed of the people living in a state devoted to the same cause. Every individual has the capabilities to survive by using their natural qualities powered up by their intelligence and cons ciousness to understand. As a man grows up and develops little by little he discovers his weaknesses and strengthens his abilities. He is taught by other humans I his environment about the good and bad things he might encounter in his life. There are lots of things to learn. Here enters education, this is what is being imparted to generation by generation for their own race’s progression of the future.Man is educated about the basic activities for survival. He is taught of the rules and laws embedded to his area or state. Once he became conscious about something, he will began be curious to know how to surpass a different situation. Together with his ability to think and rationalization, his intelligence will lead him to a plan for success in overcoming the scenario.To build a strong society, a state, we need to strive hard in molding our people. There is a need to start from the single citizen that composes a group. The state should make it possible for its member to attain education, for them to enhance their natural potentials, talents and abilities which can be useful for the economic growth of the country. The republic must promote solidarity with other nations and become an exemplar of a peaceful living.Everything is connected to everything else as stated in the Ecology’s seven principles. This is parallel to the relation between the republic, nature and the morality.   It is quite visible and perceivable that it is a cycle and a mutual relationship inside a county. Their foundation is each other.   They depend on each pillar. To start it, from the existence of an individual which is the simple unit of society, till he received and gained a support from the state through education, till he exercised his natural sense of thinking to solve circumstances and grew to experiences will produce him into a well competitive independent individual of a society bounded with the laws of morality, based on ethics.The responsibility of the elected pe ople in the republic is to help and support its people to discover and cultivate their own potentials and also contribute to the improvement of the society and also help other new existing little children equipped with their own intelligence which needs practice and cultivation.Immanuel Kant focused on the natural and morality of man in terms of its existence and role in the society. That a man becomes human when taught to be morally upright based on some standards together with the other man in the society with same will, will promote a republic that fall out into the same mean. That is to raise a man on its natural qualities and live in a moral society with better persons.Work CitedBohman, James. â€Å"Cosmopolitan Republicanism.† The Monist 84 (2001): 3-22Heater, Derek. World Citizenship and Government: Cosmopolitan Ideas in the History of Western Political Thought. New York: St. Martin's, 1996.Kleingeld, Pauline. â€Å"Approaching Perpetual Peace: Kant's Defence of a Lea gue of States and his Ideal of a World Federation.† European Journal of Philosophy 12 (2004): 304-325.Kleingeld, Pauline. â€Å"Six Varieties of Cosmopolitanism in Late Eighteenth-Century Germany.† Journal of the History of Ideas 60 (1999): 505-524.Kleingeld, Pauline. â€Å"Kantian Patriotism.† Philosophy & Public Affairs 29 (2000): 313-341.Rawls, John. The Law of Peoples. Cambridge: Harvard University Press, 1999.Schlegel. â€Å"Essay on the Concept of Republicanism occasioned by the Kantian tract ’Perpetual Peace’.† In The Early Political Writings of the German Romantics, ed. and trans. Frederick C. Beiser, 93-112. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1996.

Attitudes Towards War in A Farewell to Arms by Ernest Hemingway Essay

Ernest Hemingway was one of the most influential writers of the Modern period. After being rejected from the army, Hemingway entered the war in 1917 as an ambulance driver on the Italian front. Hemingway’s relationship with the war could have been his reason for writing his novel A Farewell to Arms. A Farewell to Arms takes place in Italy in World War I. The novel tells of the conflicts of an American ambulance driver on the Italian front, Frederick Henry, and his difficulties with war, love and death. In this particular novel, Hemingway expresses several different attitudes towards war through the characters Frederick Henry, Lieutenant Rinaldi, and Gino. World War I has no extreme effect on Frederick Henry. He feels as though it is not his war to fight since his country has very little to do with it. Henry does not even realize the seriousness of the war until it takes its toll on him. Frederick Henry mentions, â€Å"Well, I knew I would not be killed. Not in this war. It did not have anything to do with me. It seemed no more dangerous to me than war in the movies† (37; ch. 7). The war is no more than another adventure to Frederick Henry. It seems he is in the war just to have something to do. Catherine says to Henry † ‘Why did you join up with the Italians?’ ‘I was in Italy,’ I said, ‘and I spoke Italian'† (22; ch. 5). Clearly Henry does not care much for the war. He feels uncomfortable with the passion others feel for it, such as Gino, and Henry exemplifies this when he mentions, â€Å"I was always embarrassed by the words sacred, glorious, sacrifice and the expression in vainâ₠¬  (184; ch. 27). He goes on to say, â€Å"I had seen nothing sacred, and the things that were glorious had no glory†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (185; ch. 27). Lieutenant Rinaldi’s outlook on the war is depressing, and he feels as thought he war has torn his entire world apart. Rinaldi used to the happy go lucky man who always had a couple of drinks and a good time until the war truly takes its toll on him. â€Å"The war is killing me. I am very depressed by it† (167; ch. 25). He is telling this to Frederick Henry after a long separation period when Henry was in the hospital. Rinaldi has clearly changed and Henry notices right away. Unlike Henry, Lieutenant Rinaldi seems  to get a sense of belonging from the war, and he felt like he was needed as a talented surgeon. As soon as Rinaldi is no longer needed for operating anymore, he no longer feels he is needed in the war, and his place in society becomes unclear. Rinaldi comments to Henry, â€Å"I don’t operate now and I feel like hell. This is a terrible war baby. You believe me when I say it† (167; ch. 25). Gino is the man who shows Henry around Gozoria after Henry’s return from Milan. Gino thinks of the war as a big opportunity to show loyalty for his country. All he wants to do is make a difference in the army, and he almost refuses to admit to the harsh realities of war. Gino believes that all great acts are done strictly out of the goodness in people’s hearts and are done only to be loyal patriots. Gino says to Henry, â€Å"We won’t talk about losing. There is enough talk about losing. What has been done this summer cannot have been done in vain† (184; ch. 27). Gino clearly thinks all men should be as patriot as he is, and does not seem to understand those who are not. Henry realizes this and respects Gino’s opinions and beliefs. â€Å"Gino was a patriot, so he said things that separated us sometimes, but he was also a fine boy and I understood his being a patriot. He was born one† (185; ch. 27). Frederick Henry, Lieutenant Rinaldi, and Gino are very different characters with very different attitudes towards the war in the novel A Farewell to Arms. Hemingway uses his unique style to show the different opinions through his Hemingway heroes. All of these characters have different views on war, and this shows Hemingway’s respect for all of these opinions.

Anglo American Dissatation

Introduction Anglo American Plc is a mining conglomerate and is one of the largest companies within the mining industry. It originally started in 1917 as a gold mining company going by the name of Anglo American Corp; the name was created when the initial starting capital of ? 1million was raised from U. K. and U. S. sources (Forbes 2006). In 1999, following a major strategic review, Anglo American merged with Luxembourg headquartered Minorco to form Anglo American Plc, with its primary stock exchange listing and head office in London and secondary listings in Johannesburg, Switzerland, Botswana and Namibia (Anglo American 2012d).Anglo American â€Å"operates in Africa, Europe, South and North America, Australia and Asia† and is a global leader in the mining of both platinum and diamonds (Anglo American 2012c). They employ approximately 100,000 people (Anglo American 2012c) across the world, both in the mines and in local offices, with the majority of employees being based in South Africa, 79,000 (Anglo American 2011). Anglo American employs 10,000 people in South America, which is the second largest proportion of employees in the company, and employs 11,000 people in other countries across the globe (Anglo American 2011).South Africa produces the highest amount of revenue by origin, $17,855million in 2011, which accounted for 49% of the group’s total revenue for that year (Anglo American 2011). When comparing all the countries’ revenue for the year, South Africa has a very dominant position, as all the other countries have less significant revenues of $5,058million or lower (Anglo American 2011). This suggests that South Africa is the main country for production. They have a highly diversified mining portfolio, comprising of many metals and minerals.In 2011, Anglo American increased their shareholding to 85% in the world’s leading diamond company, De Beers (Anglo American 2012a), which accounted for 6% of the share of Anglo American ’s operating profit in 2011 (Anglo American 2012c). The company employs 16,000 people in the diamond division, in North America and Africa, which is the second largest percentage of employees across the group (Anglo American 2011). Another subsidiary of Anglo American is Anglo American Platinum Ltd. AAP), of which they own 80% and employ 55,000 people, which is the largest proportion of employees across the company, 55% (Anglo American 2011). AAP is the main producer of platinum in the world, accounting for 40% of the global supply (Anglo American 2012c). Iron ore is the most predominant area of Anglo Americans operating activities with the largest share of the group’s profit in 2011 of 41%, $4520Million (Anglo American 2011). This is significant in comparison with the second highest area of operating profit, copper, which attributed to $2461Million, 22%, of the operating profit.Anglo American also produce metallurgical and thermal coal, nickel and other materials, whi ch, although contribute to the company’s profits, are less significant in comparison to the more major operations of diamond, copper, iron ore and platinum. Anglo Americans main corporate aim is to, â€Å"be the leading global mining company becoming the industry’s largest employer, partner and investment of choice† (Anglo American 2012f). They believe a â€Å"sound strategy, sustainable development and good corporate governance are essential to achieve this goal†. (Anglo American 2012f) MethodologyAt the first meeting, the group decided that the company study was to be worked on two days a week and a table was drawn up in order to manage the time efficiently to ensure the deadline was met. The table comprised of a ‘plan’ and ‘achieved’ column for each date during the weeks leading up to the deadline of 14th December, see Appendix A. After the first meeting, the group went away to do some individual brief research on the given co mpany in order to get background knowledge of Anglo American and so the in depth research for each section could be carried out at the next meeting.In order to make the most of the time given, the group was divided so that each of the main sections were researched thoroughly in order to give a more detailed report. The group followed the recommendations, allowing a third of the time to carry out research, a third on writing up the report and a third on editing and producing the final piece. After the research had been carried out on all sections, different members of the group began writing up different sections of the report using the information previously obtained.The group then looked over each other’s sections in order to make sure all relevant information was included, to check for grammar and spelling mistakes and to make sure enough references had been used. This was important to ensure all members had a good understanding of each section. Anglo American’s webs ite and annual reports were the main source of information for the company study. The issues surrounding Anglo American during the past year allowed for many relevant news articles to be widely available for use within the financial management section.After the report had been completed, the group booked weekly sessions in the Techno booths with print outs of the completed report, to ensure all members of the group were familiar with all sections. The presentation was then brainstormed and the main points put on a PowerPoint, which then allowed for the presentation to be practiced over a couple of weeks prior to the deadline. Many rehearsals of the presentation were carried out to ensure it filled the time allocation required and it flowed well.Problems occurred with the methodology closer to the deadline, as members of the group had less spare time to work on the company study, due to other assignments being due in around the same time. Financial Accounting Corporate Governance As a global organisation it is crucial that Anglo American complies with the highest standards of corporate governance, to ensure any agency problems within the company are minimised and the company is well run. Anglo American aims to â€Å"direct and control its company in a transparent and accountable way. † (Anglo American 2012f).From the 2010 board effectiveness review, an action plan was created to improve the relationship between the board and management, which could have helped reduce the conflicts of interests and agency problem. The action plan was to Increase contact between directors and management between board meetings and â€Å"Introduce more ‘free flowing' informal discussions outside board meetings – the pre-board meeting dinners will be more ‘structured' whilst retaining an informal style† (Anglo American 2011). In 2011, this action plan was reviewed and changes within Anglo American were made. The flow of management information to the Board was enhanced and the frequency of dissemination of this was improved. † â€Å"Structured board dinners also took place during the year where matters such as strategy were discussed† (Anglo American 2011). This shows good corporate governance by Anglo American as areas of the business which need work are being identified by the company and being acted upon accordingly to improve the effectiveness and control. The Anglo American board is chaired by Sir John Parker and consists of two executive and eight non-executive directors. 0% of this board it made up by women, this suggests that the Anglo American board could be more diverse. In the current business economy, â€Å"Regulators, politicians and shareholders are each stepping up pressure on companies for greater board  diversity  as part of a drive for better governance† (Robertson 2012). The Lord Davies Women on Boards report set a target of 25% minimum of board members to be female by 2015. Anglo Ameri can stated in their annual report their â€Å"intention to increase the representation of women on the Board from 20% to about 30% by 2013† (Anglo American 2011), which is two years below the national expectation.This is an example of good corporate governance by Anglo American as it is adhering to policies and targets which are not compulsory and also has disclosed in its annual statement, its future intentions to increase diversity in the boardroom. Anglo American also has a nomination committee which â€Å"aim is to build on the existing diversity of the board by identifying and nominating suitably qualified candidates† (Anglo American 2011). This is viewed as being good corporate governance by the company as Anglo American is making sure before directors are appointed that they are right for the job and the best candidate is chosen.To do this, they are considering both men and women for the job roles which is widening the talent pool. The Government passed the UK B ribery Act 2010, under this act the â€Å"defence  for a company against this liability is to prove that it had ‘adequate procedures’ in place to prevent bribery† (Wilkinson 2010). To comply with this act, Anglo American have implemented the necessary procedures to ensure that its business integrity policy operates effectively, so the risk of bribery is minimised as far as possible (Anglo American 2011).During the year, Anglo American developed enhanced guidelines on the acceptance and provisions for gifts and entertainment and provided specific guidance on the procedures to be followed where risks were considered higher. This is a good example of corporate governance as this would reflect positively for shareholders and potential investors, as new laws are being adhered to. In accordance with the UK Corporate Governance Code, Anglo American continue to propose the re-election of all its directors on an annual basis (Anglo American 2011), which ensures good cor porate governance, as directors will always be of the highest quality possible.Within Anglo American â€Å"The Audit Committee plays a pivotal role in ensuring high standards of corporate governance and provides assurance to the Board on its reports to shareholders† (Anglo American 2011). In Anglo American, the audit committee comprises of four independent non-executive directors. The audit committee is also charged with reviewing the results of the key risk management process, â€Å"being involved in the risk management procedures of the company† (Anglo American 2011).However, to improve the governance in this area Anglo American could disclose the main risks to the company and the strategy it has in place to deal with these risks. The Audit committee is also responsible for the whistleblowing programme which the group has had in place for a number of years. It â€Å"is designed to enable employees, customers, suppliers, managers or other stakeholders, on a confident ial basis, to raise concerns in cases where conduct is deemed to be contrary to our values† (Anglo American 2011).This shows good corporate governance as there is a programme which has been set up by the group where stakeholders, can report failures and discrepancies within the company, to independent non-executive directors. However, Anglo American could disclose the procedures which are to be followed when issues are reported. Within Anglo American, the board delegates certain responsibilities to a number of committees; these include the Remuneration committee, Nomination committee and Audit committee.In coherence with the UK combined code of corporate governance there â€Å"should be a formal and transparent procedure for developing policy on executive remuneration and fixing individuals director’s remuneration packages, no director should be involved in deciding their own remuneration† (FRC 2012). Anglo American’s remuneration committee seeks advice fr om external advisers Pricewaterhouse Coopers LLP, Linklaters LLP, Mercer Limited and Deloitte LLP, to help determine the director’s remuneration packages.Anglo American describes its policy as being â€Å"formulated to attract and retain high-calibre executives and to motivate them to develop and implement the Company’s business strategy in order to optimise long-term shareholder value creation† (Anglo American 2011). The remuneration mix is an important part of good corporate governance as it ensures that the company has an appropriate blend of basic and performance related pay as the remuneration committee will see as suitable.This will ensure that the directors will strive to achieve the main goal of increasing shareholder wealth. At the present time, director’s remuneration is calculated on the industry median for the mining sector and is adjusted by the director’s performance and experience. Anglo American could improve their corporate governa nce by setting director’s remuneration packages at the industry averages only. Within Anglo American, each executive director’s total remuneration consists of basic salary, annual bonus, long-term incentives and benefits.This ensures that an appropriate balance is maintained between fixed and performance-related remuneration (Anglo American 2011). However, the sheer value of some of the bonus packages is likely to affect shareholders wealth and the willingness for potential investors to invest. An article from the Telegraph explains that the chief executive of Anglo American was handed a 38 per cent increase in pay last year, with a total package worth ? 2. 17m, however the cash element of her annual performance bonus was increased by 134 per cent to ? 962,000.Never the less, at this time shares in Anglo American fell by 14 per cent over the course of 2011 (White 2012). This could be viewed as bad corporate governance by the company as despite the share price falling t he chief executives pay has been dramatically increased. To help the directors ensure they have a meaningful stake in the performance of the company, in 2004 the remuneration committee devised a Bonus Share Plan (BSP), â€Å"which requires executive directors to invest a significant proportion of their remuneration in shares† (Anglo American 2011).This demonstrates good corporate governance, as it aligns the directors’ interests with that of the shareholders, reducing the agency problem. The bonus share plan also weakens independence of the directors within the company, as it is giving them greater interest within the company on a personal level. Training is offered to new directors in order to develop a comprehensive view of Anglo American’s company, continuous training is also available to directors throughout their employment.However, the governance could be improved by disclosing in the annual report the nature and the schedule of the training, so the stakeh olders know what is being covered in the induction training. Within the annual report for Anglo American there is a statement of director’s responsibilities, which sets out what is expected of the directors. The board should present a balanced, true and fair view of the company’s position and prospects. Under company law the directors should not approve the accounts unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the affairs of Anglo American.This shows good corporate governance from the company as in the annual report it breaks down the directors responsibilities, however this could be improved by giving details to the users of the annual reports about what responsibilities each director has. A breakdown of the separation of roles between the chairman and director could also be disclosed in the annual report, which will ensure that one person is not given too much power which could prove to be very risky for Anglo American.The skills and knowledge of all the board members are summarised in the annual report, to give the shareholders and stakeholders an idea of their previous experience and the wealth of knowledge they bring to Anglo American, which shows good corporate governance by the company. Overall Anglo American shows good corporate governance with compliance to the UK combined code of corporate governance. The company has disclosed majority of information but could improve by disclosing the strategies in place, especially for the risk management prospective and its whistleblowing and training schemes.Stating the responsibilities of the chairman and chief executives would also ensure that corporate governance is being applied at a continuous high level. Stakeholders UK corporate law requires companies to be principally accountable to their shareholders. However, Anglo American believe that their shareholders' best interests are served when the company makes sure all appropriate stakeholders are kept happy, not just the sha reholders (Anglo American 2011).It is in all stakeholders’ best interests that the company not only survives, but flourishes long term, Anglo American therefore seek to be the partner of choice for its stakeholders by operating in a way that is acceptable to them all (The Times 2012a). Anglo American needs their stakeholders to support them in order to meet the organisations objectives’, for example treating staff well and respecting local communities, will make it easier to recruit new people necessary for growth.In the long term, this will create more value for shareholders. Employees are possibly the most important stakeholder for Anglo American, employing approximately 100,000 people around the world (Anglo American 2012c), however working within the mining industry has been voted one of the top ten most dangerous jobs (Korch 2012). To help protect this stakeholder group, Anglo American has adopted strict health and safety regulations which are outlined in the safe ty way, ensure that employee’s working conditions are as safe as they can possibly be. The safety way is a comprehensive framework of roles and responsibilities supported by a set of safety principles and mandatory safety standards† (Anglo American 2012b). The strategy outlines Anglo American's risk-based approach to safety based on ten key factors that support effective safety management; leadership, risk management, culture, competence, assurance, monitoring, planning, standards, communications and learning (Anglo American 2012b). Employees in management positions are also seen as stakeholders within Anglo American, as they are esponsible for making key business decisions within the company and without the relevant information they will not be able to make reliable decisions. Unions are a very important stakeholder for Anglo American as they try to make the employees' time whilst working for Anglo American as safe and as beneficial as possible. Previously, Anglo Ameri can have clashed with unions and issues have been raised, as seen in The Telegraph (2011), resulting in negative media interest and damaging the reputation of the company (White 2011). This, in turn, has a negative impact on all stakeholders within the company.In 2010, Anglo American received an â€Å"Employer incentive award for good performance† due to their â€Å"sound labour relations with trade unions, as well as the implementation and enforcement of sound occupational health and safety practices and initiatives† at the South African trade unions solidarity awards for 2010 (Anglo American 2012k). Examples of some of the trade unions that are recognised within Anglo American are The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa, The National Union of Mineworkers, The United Association of South Africa and The Togetherness Amalgamated Workers Union of South Africa.Activist groups can be classed as stakeholders, as mining involves using the world’s natural re sources and in some cases can lead to long term damage to the environment. Such groups are passionate about protecting the environment and if they feel that Anglo American are not protecting the environment enough, they put pressure on the company. On 28 Sep 2012, War on Want released an article discussing the miner’s strikes in South Africa and the poor working conditions of the employees (War on Want 2012).This could create negative publicity and disrupt operations, therefore affecting shareholder wealth. In response to these activist groups, Anglo American has recently developed a Socio-Economic Assessment Toolbox (SEAT) as a means of further improving the impact of its activities, e. g. setting up training programmes for local communities (The Times 2012b). The contractors that work on the various sites across the globe are also seen as stakeholders within Anglo American, as they carry out the majority of the work on civil engineering projects, such as digging new mines.C ontractors are important stakeholders in Anglo American as they have a lot of responsibilities when undertaking projects and if these are not carried out properly, then problems can arise. If quality standards were compromised, due to disillusioned contractors, then this could have health and safety consequences in the future. Contractor management is also an important consideration when using contractors as external stakeholders, for example local communities may accuse Anglo American of poor social performance associated with these contractors.This is the reason that the social impact of contractors on the local area is managed professionally. Customers are a vital stakeholder within Anglo American, but due to the nature of the industry, the majority of Anglo American's customers are countries, â€Å"China is a key customer of Anglo American's products† (Anglo American 2012m). Anglo American has many different key performance indicators (KPI), divided into investing in worl d class assets in the most attractive commodities, operating safely, sustainably and responsibly, employing the best people and organising efficiently and effectively (Anglo American 2011).One of the main operating KPIs is the work related fatal injury frequency rate (FIFR). FIFR is calculated as â€Å"the number of fatal injuries to employees or contractors per 200,000 hours worked† (Anglo American 2011). This information is most relevant to the employees of Anglo American, and the unions representing them, as they are the ones who are directly affected by the injuries of co-workers. The FIFR for 2011 shows a small increase in fatalities from 15 to 17, however, in 2009 there were over 50 fatalities which shows that Anglo American is implementing the correct strategies in order to minimise these fatalities.Despite the downward trend, Anglo American targets 0 fatalities, showing that Anglo American show a keen interest in their employees' welfare. Another operating KPI is the lost time injury frequency rate (LTIFR), which is the amount of lost time from injuries (LTIs) per 200,000 hours worked (Anglo American 2011). An LTI is an injury which leaves the employee unable to perform their regular duties for a the period after the injury was incurred (Anglo American 2011).If Anglo-American have a higher FIFR or LTIFR than the industry average, it may put off possible employees from applying for a position, which could result in the company not being able to employ the most knowledgeable people, which can have a negative impact on shareholder wealth. Another operating KPI is greenhouse gas emissions which is measured in CO2 equivalent emissions (Anglo American 2011). Environmental activist groups, such as Greenpeace, are likely to be interested in this key performance indicator as greenhouse gases are very harmful to the atmosphere and have been linked with global warming.The annual report from 2011 shows a reduction in Greenhouse gas emissions than in 2010, s ignifying that Anglo American are moving in the right direction in terms of reducing their carbon footprint. Total water use is another operating KPI and includes water used for primary activities, which affect the people who live in the area surrounding the mine. Some of the regions that Anglo American work in, have sparse water supplies and therefore any water used by the company may result in less water for the local communities.Reducing this KPI is important to Anglo American, as if this is not managed it may put off potential employees within these communities from applying for a position within the firm, and may give Anglo American a bad reputation. The final key operating KPI is Enterprise Development, which is is defined as the number of companies supported and number of jobs sustained by companies supported by Anglo American enterprise development initiatives (Anglo American 2011). The stakeholder that is most closely linked to this key performance indicator would be the lo cal community in which Anglo American operates.Results from this KPI show that Anglo American is currently supporting 38,681 businesses which is much higher than their target of 3,500 businesses (Anglo American 2011). A key KPI relating to employing the best people is voluntary labour turnover, which is the number of permanent employee resignations as a percentage of total permanent employees (Anglo American 2011). In 2011, the percentage of employees who resigned was 3% which shows a decrease of 2. 3% from the previous year (Anglo American 2011).This shows the company is striving to improve employee morale and employee working conditions. This KPI is important for the employees of the company, as it indicates the number of people who may have been unhappy within their work. An important employment KPI in recent times is gender diversity, which represents the percentage of women and female managers employed by Anglo American (Anglo American 2011). In 2011, the group managed to incre ase the percentage of female employees from 14% to 15% and the total number of female managers from 14% to 21%.This KPI can be linked to both the employees and unions of the company, as both want to make sure Anglo American has equal opportunities for both genders in order to create a harmonious working environment. The first â€Å"organising efficiently and effectively† KPI is asset optimisation, which is defined as the sustainable operating profit benefit from optimised performance of the asset base of the core businesses (Anglo American 2011). An asset optimisation strategy is comprised of asset management and asset monitoring and a well organised strategy can reduce avoidable maintenance and interruption times.Managers of Anglo American will be interested in an effective asset optimisation strategy, as it will allow them to make effective decisions with regards to the best method of maintaining and using the company’s assets. The other organising KPI is the supply chain, which is the â€Å"operating pro? t and capital spend bene? ts to Anglo American resulting from centralised procurement from core businesses† (Anglo American 2011). An effective method of managing the supply chain is by local procurement, as it saves transport costs by supplying across the world.Therefore, managers of Anglo American will be interested in this KPI as it allows the company to build relationships with key contractors/ suppliers that can produce mutually beneficial outcomes. The results for the most recent financial year show an improvement to the supply chain of $472 million from the previous year. In the annual report Anglo American also have a section of investment KPI’s, these include return on capital employed and underlying earnings per share. The results from the annual report show an increase in both KPI’s from 2010 to 2011, 24. 8% to 26. 5% and $4. 13 to $5. 06 respectively.Investment KPI’s are only relevant to shareholders. I t enables shareholders to check how well Anglo American generates profit from the capital invested and provides them with a comparison to the previous year. Despite the fact that Anglo American has a fairly extensive list of key performance indicators, there are other factors that have not been accounted for that would benefit the company’s stakeholders. Antofagasta Plc. , another company within the mining sector, uses operational KPIs that state the volumes of the most important metals that has been mined during year and compared with previous years (Antofagasta 2011).Anglo American could create this form of KPI to ensure they increase the level of production for the most important materials each year, which would be useful to the majority of stakeholders as they would be able to see how much the company has expanded its' production over the year. Contractors would be able to use this information to estimate how the level of production will increase over the following year t o put aside enough resources in order to carry out any projects that Anglo American may have in the future. London Mining Plc. ave a KPI for number of employees trained, which gives the number of people who have undergone professional training within the year (London Mining 2011). Anglo American could use this as one of their KPIs to show whether the management have executed the relevant training schemes for employees. Customers would be the most likely stakeholder to benefit from this KPI, as if there is a high number of people that have been professionally trained, it implies that their staff are trained to the highest standard and will have the correct knowledge needed in order to carry out best practice.Employees would find this information useful to determine whether they might be entitled to be given professional training by the number of employees put on schemes within the year. hhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh Financial Management Figure 1 shows Anglo American Plc. ’s share price performance over the period 1 January to 30 September 2012 and the FTSE All Share performance. After analysing, it can be seen that both share price, and average share price of the FTSE All Share, have considerably similar movements over the given period with Anglo American’s share price being more erratic. [pic]On 6 January, Anglo American shareholders approved the change of holding from 45% to 85% of De Beers at the company’s general meeting. During the meeting the chairman voiced his expectations for an increase in shareholder value due to the expertise and leadership of De Beers (Anglo American 2012a). This shareholder approval was expected to result in an increase in demand for shares, which is represented by the increase in share price between 9 January and 23 January. This movement in share price seems to be autonomous from the FTSE All Share which would aid our analysis of this particular period as the event is internal to Anglo American. On 26 January Anglo American released their production report for the 4th quarter in 2011. Initially, the share price dropped from ? 27. 37 on 26 January to ? 26. 35 on 30 January which could have been due to the decrease in diamond and platinum production. This area of production is what the company is best known for, so a decrease in production of these would initially deter investors and create doubt for shareholders. Between 30 January and 3 February the share price shot up by ? 2. 5 which signified that the shareholders had looked into the report further to see that the production of all other materials had increased, including nickel production increasing by 125% from the previous year (Anglo American 2012). From figure 1, it can be seen that this increase is reflected in the movement of the FTSE 100 which could suggest that there may be external factors also affecting Anglo American at this time. On 23 March, Anglo American sold a â‚ ¬750m 10 year euro bond which could hav e been due to funds being needed more within the company (Euroweek 2012).Investing in the euro bond may have been to help create or strengthen values of the company, especially within Europe at this particular time of the European Sovereign Debt Crisis. As shown on figure 1 between 23 March and 29 March the share price fell dramatically. This could be due to shares being sold by shareholders that primarily invested in Anglo American, as they supported the Eurozone. On 1 June, Anglo American re-entered the euro bond market which â€Å"several bankers speculated that they returned out of prudence† Euroweek 2012). The share price shot back up, which could have been caused from the amount of demand for the deal, this suggested investors were pleased to see Anglo American again. Anglo American was in talks with Peru on 29 June in relation to a potential local sustainable development to accompany a mining project in the region, and had proposed a $118 million investment (Guerra 201 2). $36. 9 million of the investment was budgeted to install a pumping system in to two of the country’s rivers (Guerra 2012).The fact they are supporting and helping Peru is a sign of good corporate social responsibility for shareholders and potential investors which resulted in a ? 0. 66 increase over 4 days. Between 10 August and 30 August, there is a noticeable decrease in the share price which would seem to be an internal factor as the FTSE All Share does not seem to follow suit during this period. An outside article was realised on the 10 August stating that Anglo American were dismissing claims that a shareholder spring was expected to occur which was broadcasted in the Telegraph (2012).The article in the Telegraph (2012) stated that shareholders had contacted Sir John Parker, Chairman of Anglo American expressing their dissatisfaction with the CEO, Cynthia Carroll. Sir John parker sided with the CEO which fuelled the shareholders to take their complaint to one of the company’s directors. This highlighted to the shareholders the lack of support they were receiving, which therefore could be the internal factor forcing the share price down.When comparing Anglo American with other companies within the mining industry, the movements in the FTSE share price are mirrored more closely by Antofagasta than Anglo American, which may suggest that their beta is closer to 1. [pic] Throughout the period analysed, the share price movements for Anglo American is quite volatile in comparison to the FTSE All Share. Between 2 April and 7 June, the movement in share prices between both Anglo American and The FTSE is extremely similar with Anglo American’s movement being more responsive.This could signify that external factors affecting the whole market have affected Anglo American the same way but at a more severe rate, this is shown by their beta of 2. 08, see Appendix C. With the FTSE having a perfect market beta of 1 the beta value of Anglo American is in perfect correlation with the movement of share prices, see Appendix B, as in the majority of places the movement is the same but double as volatile. With the beta value being considerably higher than 1, shareholders or investors are likely to be risk seeking rather than risk averse.The further away from 0 the beta value is, the lower the shareholder value, but the potential for a high return is there. As seen in the London Business School Risk Measurement Services publication the commercial betas for the 3 quarters up to September 2012 are of a similar value, see Appendix C, with the average being 1. 55. This is significantly lower than our calculated beta of 2. 08. However the â€Å"Risk Measurement Service uses estimates based on an analysis of variable factors, and is therefore no way guaranteed† (London Business School 2012), whereas the beta of 2. 8 was calculated based on weekly data taken from Thomson Analytics. Although the beta of 2. 08 is the less favourable one, it is the more accurate out of the 2 so will give a better indication of shareholder value and the risk an investor may take. Both betas are aggressive in relation to the market beta however the commercial calculation is less so. Unless a serious investor were to calculate the beta themselves, using actual data for the company, they would be likely to base an investment decision on estimated inaccurate beta values.A shareholder’s decision to invest can be influenced by another confounding variable, the company’s investment rating. There are 3 main investment ratings that stakeholders use and rely upon these are Moody’s, Standard & Poor’s (S&P) and Fitch. Anglo American are rated on Moody’s with a long term investment rating of Baa1 and the equivalent long term rating on S&P of BBB+ which is noted to be a lower medium grade of investment. S&P define their BBB+ rating as the company having â€Å"adequate capacity to meet financial commitments, but more subject to adverse economic conditions† (Standard and Poors 2012).Although Anglo American’s ratings could be higher they seem to be in a good stable financial position and therefore an attractive investment for potential shareholders. The short term ratings for Anglo American are of a slightly better position than the long term ratings, with Moody’s being P-2, which implies they â€Å"have a strong ability to repay debt obligations† (Moody’s 2009). This shows the company is fairly liquid giving reassurance to shareholders because if the company was to enter default there would be a higher chance of shareholders getting a return.The S&P credit rating for Anglo American was the same in 2011 as in 2012 with a long term rating of BBB+ and a short term rating of A-2 for both. This gives investors the security of Anglo Americans stable credit rating and in turn ability to pay off debt. Although investment ratings can be used to help determine whe ther to invest or not they should not be relied upon, as companies with the same rating do not have absolutely equal credit quality. It does not take into consideration external factors such as a change in money rates and it ignores the length of maturity. Dividends |2011 |2010 | | |($) |($) | |Interim dividend |28 |25 | |Recommended |46 |40 | |final dividend | | | |Total dividends |74 |65 | Anglo American has a clear dividend policy in which a base dividend will either be increased or maintained from year to year (Anglo American 2011).An interim dividend of 28 US cents per ordinary share was paid on 15 September 2011, and for the 2011 financial year â€Å"The Board proposes a final dividend of 46 cents per share, giving a total dividend for the year of 74 cents, a 14% increase† (Anglo American 2011) see figure 3. During the year the Group paid dividends of $818 million to company shareholders, which is a huge increase on the $302 million paid out in 2010, and $1,404 million in dividends to non-controlling interests.Based on shares eligible for dividends at 31 December 2011, this will result in an estimated distribution of $557 million of shareholders’ funds, of which $350 million will be distributed by the parent Company. The interim dividend for 2012 has increased by 14% to 32 cents per share, which continues their policy of a base dividend being slightly adjusted after discussion to ensure the maintenance of their investment grade rating (Anglo American 2012n). Dividends are proposed to be paid out in cash and not scrip issues therefore the $557 million will be shown on the balance sheet, therefore affecting cash flows.Anglo American have a fairly attractive dividend yield of 3. 32% in 2011, when compared with other mining companies within the FTSE 100, see Appendix D. From the four companies analysed the dividend yield has increased from 2010 to 2011, apart from BHP Billiton. This suggests that either companies are issuing a higher divided or the value of shares has dropped. In Anglo Americans case the share price has fallen over the given period, but the annual dividend has also increased. As a percentage of earnings the dividend for 2011 was 14. 51%, which had increased from 11. 97% in 2010.Considering the high capital investments that Anglo American commit themselves to, this is fairly good proportion of earnings attributable to shareholders. The optimum dividend policy would offer shareholders a constant, steady dividend paid at regular intervals now rather than later; this is exactly what Anglo American has to offer. However due to the Group’s aggressive investment plans for future growth, which includes three major projects; Barro Alto, Los Bronces and Kolomela, the constant regular dividend policy is likely to cease or at least come under discussion at board meetings.Shareholders have questioned the decision to invest money into these projects, CEO Cynthia Carroll has announced that the 3 projects and anot her one expected to commence in 2013 will contribute $6bn to dividend pay-outs. Although the expected change in dividend policy has undoubtedly caused controversy with shareholders, the company has proven that investment into new projects is necessary to maintain a high profit and continue to pay a regular dividend in the future (Vuuren 2011).Over the past few years Anglo American have had a strong, fairly positive balance of debt and equity, which has allowed them to have the flexibility to attain more finance when necessary. Net debt at 30 June 2012, including related hedges, was $3,124 million which was an increase of $1,750 million from the net debt at 31 December 2011. Net debt at 31 December 2011 comprised $12,873 million of debt, partially offset by $11,732 million of cash and cash equivalents (Anglo American 2011).However a dramatic net debt decrease of $6,010 million occurred from 31 December 2010 to 31 December 2011 which reflects strong operating cash flows and proceeds o n the disposal of 24. 5% of Anglo-American Sur (Anglo American 2011). Anglo American is funded mainly by equity as shown by the debt and equity ratios in Appendix D. At 30 June 2012 for every $1 of capital invested by the shareholders $0. 655 is funded through debt, which is a slight improvement on the debt equity ratio of 0. 677 at 31 December 2011.The ratios indicate that the group should easily be able to generate enough cash to satisfy its debt obligations as the group has enough room to manoeuvre its current levels of finance. It is important that a company’s debt-equity ratio is not too high as this can lead to increased interest payments and an enlarged risk of damaging their credit rating. This is perhaps the reason that the group made efforts to decrease the debt-equity ratio from 31 December 2010 from which it was 0. 755. Anglo American has a sound equilibrium between debt and equity as seen by the gearing calculations in Appendix D.Over the past two years, the figu re has increased gradually from 45. 71% at 30 June 2010 to 50. 30% at 30 June 2012, which could be due to an increase in long term liabilities. The market value of equity has also increased but at a slightly lower rate, causing the gearing ratio to increase steadily. However, the value of equity is based on the market value of the shares at 30 September 2012 for each of the three years to ensure a more accurate comparison, so when considering each year in turn, it would not show the true value of gearing.Figure 3 shows the comparison of the percentage of gearing compared with the percentage of gearing using the market value of equity. Both show a similar pattern with gearing gradually increasing over the two years, but a steeper incline for the gearing based on the share price at that year. This could be a result of the share price dramatically decreasing from 25. 26 at 30 September 2010 to 18. 17 at 30 September 2012, in turn giving a lower value of equity when using the market sha re price.Calculating the gearing using the share price at that time, rather than the market value today, shows the gearing in a way that the company would have wished to portray. Overall, it can be seen that the share price movements of Anglo American Plc. generally follow the market trend, signalling that external factors are the main influence on any change in share price. The erratic behaviour of Anglo American’s share price makes an investment in this company quite risky. For example a variation in the market share price due to a change in regulation is likely to have more of an effect on Anglo American as their beta value is 2. 8. To lower the risk they could strengthen themselves against external factors by introducing or improving their internal control systems, minimising their exposure to the external environment and in turn lowering their beta. The beta of Anglo American demonstrated by how the share price movement is generally the same as the market but exaggerated , which shows that it is an aggressive beta. When comparing with other companies in the mining sector Anglo Americans beta value is higher than most but not an anomaly, see Appendix C.All the companies within the mining sector in the FTSE 100 have a beta value higher than 1, making them all aggressive, risky investments, with Anglo American being one of the more risky options. Anglo American may seem quite risky when using the beta, however when considering this alongside the company’s gearing it could be considered as an attractive less-risky investment. Anglo American’s gearing is fairly average, but it could be improved by minimising the amount of debt that contributes to the company’s finance, also decreasing the debt equity ratio.Although the company may be seen as becoming increasingly highly geared, they are constantly investing in new projects to increase shareholder wealth in the long term, which makes the level of gearing more acceptable. Anglo America n’s investment rating is fairly high on Moody’s credit rating table, which shows there are signs for improvement but also space for fault. The rating is based on many confounding variables, with Corporate Governance having a major influence on the overall rating. Although Anglo American has demonstrated fairly good corporate governance, there is still room for improvement in many areas.Another variable that could affect the rating is the dividend policy on offer to shareholders. Anglo American offer a very attractive policy with a base amount and regular payments, which is the optimum option for shareholders, as they know what to expect and when to expect it. After taking into account all aspects of the financial performance of the company, an investment in Anglo American would be recommended for a risk seeking investor expecting regular dividend payments. Anglo American is a worthy investment, as they have a number of new projects ined up for the future and have prove n to have had huge success with previous projects, leading to satisfied shareholders. However, the value of Anglo American has declined over the period analysed, with the share price falling from 22. 29 to 18. 17, but this is forecast to increase over the near future due to all the projects recently invested in. If the global economy was to enter a double dip recession, Anglo American is not likely to be affected much by this, due to the strong commodity values and derivatives. Strategic ManagementAnglo American is currently one of the world’s top mining companies and has held this position for a number of years. Their main goal is to be the â€Å"leading global mining company, becoming the investment, partner and employer of choice† (Anglo American 2012f). A way in which Anglo American wish to become the global leading mining company is to outperform competition, by their structure of organising efficiently and effectively (Anglo American 2012l). They aim to achieve t his from being more focused and performance orientated, and believes their Asset Optimisation (AO) programme will help to do this (The Times 2012).Anglo American wanted to enhance the health and performance of their operations, so designed an Asset Optimisation programme in order to achieve a holistic approach to this. It has allowed a more open working culture giving employees the encouragement to not only work together but contribute their own ideas to improve the business. A major contributor from the AO programme, that has added value across the group, is the development of the programme, in which it has been introduced into the day-to-day business of Anglo American.This programme has added value and strength to Anglo American as to date they have saved well over their target of $1 billion from their core operations and hope the strategy continues to present positive outcomes in the future (The Times 2012). To improve efficiency, each individual area of production is focused on lowering its costs, such as lowering excessive waste or managing the usage of natural resources. Water is vital to Anglo American in order to carry out their operations and also for the communities around them, especially as some areas are the most ater-stressed regions in the world. To reduce water usage, a 10 year strategy is in place which involves making projects water resilient, investing in new technology and building water infrastructure. By 2030, Anglo American hope to have reached the strategic objective of zero net water consumption. Not only does this strategy improve the efficiency of production, it also engages with stakeholders, which in turn benefits the community (Anglo American 2012l) and will reduce the agency problem between directors and the local population.Investment is a strong part of Anglo American’s strategy, and they feel that the investments they have made into large scale assets, with long life cycles, have given them a clear advantage through the low costs attached to them. The commodities that Anglo American specialises in are those that they believe hold the best returns over a long period of time, and even during the fluctuations that occur over an economic cycle.Anglo American also offers derivatives of their commodities which is a good strategic decision for them to take, in the sense that they are guaranteed a certain level of return for those derivatives. However if the demand and in turn the price dramatically rises for those commodities Anglo American could receive lower than the market value at that time. Therefore the option to offer derivatives not only allows for the opportunity of stability for an agreed amount of income, but also the threat to lose out on an increase of market value of that commodity. Operating safely, sustainably and responsibly is embedded in everything† (Anglo American 2012l) that Anglo American does. Employee safety is a huge part of any decision made by the company and they are per sistent on reaching their goal of zero harm. The 5 years prior to Cynthia Carol becoming Anglo Americans CEO there was a total of nearly 200 fatalities, whereas the 5 years following her position as CEO the number of fatalities dropped to 77.This could be down to the change in strategy and how the importance and safety of employees was considered invaluable to Cynthia; this was demonstrated by her drastic decision in 2007 to close the Rustenburg mine instantly due to the risky nature of it (Carroll 2012). The health and wellbeing of employees was taken a step further when HIV/AIDS and general healthcare services were not only provided to employees but also their dependents, spouses and other stakeholders.This has been recognised as world class and has received a number of rewards for it, ‘The Business Excellence Award for Best Workplace Program’ being one of many (Engineering & Mining Journal 2009). Minimising the effect that their operations have on the environment is something that Anglo American also considers in detail. Over the years Anglo American have received a number of awards that prove their commitment to the environment, in 2011 they received the three out of four awards at the ‘Three Nedbank Capital Green Mining Awards’.They were recognised for their rural research project at Sishen mine where management decisions were aligned with the long term sustainability objectives of the Taolo Gaetsewe District and the surrounding region (Nedbank 2011). Anglo American hope that this project will make a positive difference to community development, and in turn bring them closer together, building respectful associations within the society they work in (Anglo American 2012l).They believe that this strategy along with strong governance and solid risk management will create trust amongst the company and its stakeholders and fundamentally enable the delivery of long term returns to shareholders (Anglo American 2012l). Employing the best people is vital to the success of the company and also to achieving their main goal of becoming the leading global mining company. How effectively Anglo American operates depends on the people they employee which in turn contributes to the reputation they have with investors, partners and potential employees (Anglo American 2012l).To attract the best employees to the company, Anglo American; create a safe work place for all, have a clear strategy for success, offer stimulating work, are organised for effectiveness and efficiency and support employees in their career development (Anglo American 2012l). Not only does this strengthen the company, as employees have the help to progress and be motivated to progress and become the best employees, but it also offers opportunities for Anglo American to be the employer of choice.Although Anglo American has quite strong strategies in place, they should be aware of the external factors which are constantly changing that could affect these str ategies or future strategies. Due to the many countries that Anglo American operates in, they need to constantly monitor each country to ensure they are aware of anything that could affect them, for example, a change in government may have a drastic effect on the way they operate in that country. This could be managed by strong internal controls and contingency plans to react to any change as quickly as possible.The minimum wage rate for each country is something that also needs to be monitored and adhered to as they differ dramatically between the countries Anglo American operate in. The minimum wage for Australia in 2011 was ? 10. 13 compared to Kenya which was ? 0. 61, which is a dramatic difference so is hard to monitor, but it is essential to ensure all the different countries regulations are adhered to (Wage indicator 2012). Governments have also started to impose super profit taxes, where mining royalties increased in Australia, Chile and South Africa.Companies are charged su per profit taxes on revenue but now new legislation has been introduced where mining companies are charged on profits as well as revenue. To offset this, there are also discovery bonuses that Anglo American can be rewarded for, for finding natural resources within a country (Deloitte 2010). Anglo American should carefully consider the environment and the areas affected by their actions. There is a constant concern from the public, as appreciation of the environment grows along with the awareness of the harmful effects that mining can have on their surroundings (Australian Bureau of Statistics 2006).Activities at ground level constantly have an impact on the surrounding area, as bore holes, access tracks and sometimes even helipads are required. If the areas affected are left un-rehabilitated, this can have a long term effect on the environment (Australian Bureau of Statistics 2006). Anglo American has a strategy in place that is recognised internationally, and assists any mine-closu re planning. It focuses on the provision for finance necessary and rehabilitation â€Å"for long term sustainability through addressing complex socio-economic, physical and bio-physical challenges† (Anglo American 2012e).Stakeholder relations are constantly upheld throughout any project that Anglo American carries out; this ensures they have constant feedback from the community, government bodies and any other stakeholders affected by their actions. Mining is always going to affect the environment and the local communities surrounding each project, but Anglo American has strong strategies in place to deal and cope with these affects to the best of their ability. It is important for Anglo American to value the importance of society.Employees, their communities, and the population of host countries are all part of the society that Anglo American should embrace. â€Å"Every year Anglo American spend a percentage of their pre-tax profit on social investment projects and spend ti me working with communities† (Anglo American 2012j). In 2011, Anglo American increased their Corporate Social Investment by 15. 8% to $128. 6 million. The Anglo American Group Foundation is their own venture that operates globally, offering grants to countries where projects are carried out (Anglo American 2012j).Education is a huge social aspect where grant funding is used; assisting the development of maths, science and literacy as well as higher education and ensuring teachers are of a good quality. Health is also considered an important aspect on which to focus grant distribution, and Anglo American have a holistic approach when it comes to HIV/AIDS as not only do they supply internal counselling and testing but have also donated $4 million to external HIV/AIDS projects (Anglo American 2012j).Anglo American has outstanding generosity and strategies in place when it comes to the society and has strong and thorough planning for any operation carried out to improve their rela tions with stakeholders. However â€Å"community projects require creative marketing strategies and comprehensive business plans, and an external project consultant could be useful here† (Engineering and Mining Journal 2012), to eliminate any bias, and to make society relations a major variable for any decisions made.A large proportion of Anglo Americans workforce and mining is carried out in Africa â€Å"with nearly 1 billion people, Africa accounts for over a sixth of the world’s population, but generates only 4% of global electricity† (Salaam 2007). Anglo American need a lot of electricity to carry out day to day activities and with the strain of electricity available throughout Africa it was essential for Anglo American to find an alternative energy source due their large consumption of 102. 9 million gigajoules in 2011 (Anglo American 2011).In order for this level of energy to be available to them Anglo American have constructed five platinum based fuel cel ls which not only provides them with the necessary power for productivity but also â€Å"provided a significant economic and environmental development opportunity for South Africa by facilitating the provision of clean, reliable and cost effective power† (Anglo American 2012g). Anglo American consider technology and carbon reduction to be linked very closely and aim to have technology capable of running cost efficient, carbon neutral mines in 20 years (Anglo American 2012g).Although Anglo American have the aim in place to achieve this, a strategic report on how they aim to achieve it and a breakdown of steps, costs and research would be useful. It would not only be useful to the company and employees carrying out the strategy, but also for stakeholders, especially the African population and government. It may even be possible for the project to be supported, and maybe even assisted by the local Government to push forward the time scale. Being a multi-national company, Anglo A merican has to comply with many laws from each country they mine in.As well as these, some countries have individual legislation, which varies in different areas of the countries, USA & Canada (Garcia 2008). These can include environmental laws, e. g. water pollution, national laws e. g. minimum wages and safety laws. An example being that Anglo American has developed a safety and sustainable development committee in order to comply with South African safety law. This states that a company in South Africa must provide a committee with ambitions to â€Å"initiate, develop, promote, maintain and review measures to ensure health and safety† (Boshoff 2012).By having a safety committee they can try to minimise the lost time fatality rate and try to achieve their overall goal of zero fatalities within any Anglo American workplace. Anglo American has a sound collection of strategies in place to deal with external factors but it is also important for that they have strategies in plac e for internal factors. Figure 5 shows a value chain of Anglo American and allows for the internal factors that Anglo American could be affected by to be recognised. |Infrastructure: A multinational conglomerate with joint projects and subsidiaries.De Beers being the largest subsidiary of | |many. Extremely high capital investment, with lots of projects. Primary listing on LSE, secondary on JSE. | |Human Resources: Diversity among workforce across all levels of employment. Committed to International Labour Organisation. | |Development of talent remains a key priority. | |Technology: Research and develop their own technology. Link development of new technology with the ability for carbon | |reduction. | |Procurement: have a local procurement policy engaging local businesses in supply chain.Expect all suppliers to operate | |safely, sustainably and responsibly. Prefer suppliers who are engaged in China sourcing. | |Inbound Logistics: |Operations: Diamond, |Outbound Logistics: |Marketi ng and Sales: De Beers|Service: To maintain | |partner with Chinese |nickel, copper, iron |40% of worlds platinum|have their own diamond |the sites. Mines need | |suppliers to operate and |ore, thermal coal and |output. Own 85% of De |auction and shops. 70% of |to be maintained by | |maintain complex products|platinum mining. Beers, the global |platinum consum