Social Media as Marketing Tools-a Case of Coca-Cola

Back ground of Coca-cola Coca-cola started in Atlanta, Georgia, on May 8, 1886 by Dr. John Stith Pemberton. He was a local Pharmacist. After producing Coca-cola syrup he carried it down to another pharmaceutical store on the street, where it was sampled and pronounced as exceptional. The sales of the drink called Coke thereafter, began. It was not at first sold as bottled drink; rather it was sold from the fountain for five cents a glass. Carbonated water was later combined with the newly discovered syrup to produce the drink known as coca-cola today.Coca-cola is known all over the world for its unique taste which its competitors have not been able to beat. Dr. Pemberton partner with a man called Frank M. Robinson-a bookkeeper- to create the name Coca-cola. After considering the advertising aspect of the product, Robinson came up with the unique name known as â€Å"Coca-cola† today. Coca-cola was first advertised in The Atlanta Journal, through the journal the citizens were in vited to taste â€Å"the new and popular fountain drink†. While the product tasting were ongoing, series of advertising campaigns were also put in place to aggressively promote the newly found drink.The people passing by were invited to try the drink with the hope of passing the message across after tasting. During the first year, the average sales of coca-cola rose to nine drinks per day. Dr. Pemberton never realized the future prospect of the drink he created; therefore, he sold a portion of his business to different partners. In 1888 before his death, he sold the remaining part of Coca-cola to Asa G. Candler-An Atlanta business guru, who later proceeded to buy additional rights and completely took over the operation of Coca-cola (The chronicle of Coca-cola). Coca-cola brand imageCoca-cola is a leading name brand in the carbonated drink industry therefore; the name plays a major role in the sales of the product. With a very strong distribution channel that makes the product s readily available everywhere in the world and a unique brand image that places the product on the mind of it targets audience so much that, Coca-cola becomes an addiction within some quarters. This background knowledge gives Coke the greater opportunity to service a larger geographical population in various capacities (Coca-cola marketing mix 83). Coca-Cola’s brand personality reveals the positioning of its brand.Coca-cola strategically positioned it products in the mind of it targets group that they see the product as part of their daily lives and this strategic brand positioning often plays a major impact in taking decision. The association between the brand and the consumers sometimes result in brand loyalty and invariably makes the purchasing decision easier for the consumers. Coca-cola packaging system remains one of their strengths in the market. Although the bottling of Coca-cola has undergone series of transformation all through the years throughout the world but th e brand remains consistent in its distinctive taste all over the world.In other words, the product remains the same both in taste and packaging globally (Coca-cola marketing mix 83). The age of social media marketing Social media marketing is the process or strategy of using social media websites like, facebook, twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, MySpace etc. to promote a company and its products. Over the years technology has brought about changes in the way we do business. The new age of technology has undoubtedly altered the ways most companies also conduct their business activities. This technology inclined age therefore, makes buying decision easier for the target market segment.Earlier before the advent of social media; media outlet were limited to radio, TV and various print media, this made it easier for the advertiser to reach their â€Å"mass audience† using promotions through these available medium then. The media proliferation gave birth to various media channels which i n turn have allowed consumers to have options when it comes to media usage as a result of modern invention. It is very germane to note at this point, that the media availability really have a sporadic impact on consumers’ behaviors. Such impact include: Interactivity, Customization and Social interaction (Social marketing meet interactive media).The social media network has therefore, becomes so important that it is a must have for any company that wants to be relevant in the 21st century. It has contributed to the development and success of many companies in various ways. The case of Coco-cola is not an exception among the companies who are strategically using the social media marketing tools to draw followers to their brands. According to Jack Yan, The purpose for brands in any social media approach must be to serve the organization both internally and externally†¦ He went further to state the nine goals of social media usage by a brand.Such goals include: * Building a sense of membership or citizenship with the organization * Promoting communication and acceptance of the brand * Encourage the audience to engage in dialogue about the brand * Building positive brand association * Building brand awareness * Acting as a channel through which information about the brand can be obtained * Inform the consumers of the vision behind the brand * Help the organization to maintain a competitive ground * Act as a channel to know if the brand is been properly communicated to the consumers and * Build a perceived quality of the brand (Social medial in branding).Coca-cola effectively combines the above mentioned goals in its social media usage through the huge numbers of followers on its social medial page. Its continuous utilization of social medial marketing tools like Facebook, Twitter and Youtube, has undoubtedly given the company an insight into what the consumers are saying about its brand. Coca-cola facebook utilization Facebook is one of the fastest gro wing social networks with over 400 million users all over the world, it has both young and grownups as active users (Facebook: challenges and opportunities for Business communications students).Coca-cola is one of the most popular brands on Facebook along with celebrity artiste icons like Lady Gaga, Rihana and Eminem. Coke has over forty-one million fans (www. facebook. com/cocacola). Coke is the 15ht most popular Facebook page†¦ (usatoday. com) On Facebook, Coca-cola has over 35 million â€Å"like†Ã¢â‚¬ ¦according to Wendy Clark-Coke senior vice president of integrated Marketing, she says†¦Ã¢â‚¬ having all the fans respond to coke is meaningful. This is because; such responses are likely to generate more sales for the brand coke.She went further to lay emphasis on how such colossal responses from the fans on face book are to the advantage of coca-cola (usatoday. com). The nature of the social media networks site deliberately makes it possible to share information among the users. Facebook has a high utility growth and this allows sharing of information among† all friends in one-place solution† achievable (Too many Facebook â€Å"Friends†Ã¢â‚¬ ¦). More so, through its viral distribution of messages, Facebook allows target consumers to pass messages and ads to friends with ease.The online messaging allows comments to be passed on transmitted messages like ads (Viral advertising in social media†¦). Coca-cola understands this behavior, therefore, it virally engaged its targets audience through series of information about its brand. Coca-cola twitter utilization Twitter was introduced in 2006 as a blogging site that permits users to share different kinds of messages online vial medium called tweets (Follow me! Global Marketers’ Twitter use). Through these medium users are able to share messages and comments on various issues going on around them.Twitter has one hundred and sixty million users and send an upward of n inety million message everyday (Twitter as a medium of message). Coca-cola has over five hundred and thirty thousand followers on twitter (Twitter, Inc). These followers are constantly engaging in various topics about the brand coca-cola on the webpage. Through the twitter page consumers are informed about any ongoing promotion and program of Coca-cola. Twitter also stands as one of the avenues through which the consumers get information about any new ads message concerning the brand.The twitter –verse according to Clark, has a profound impact on how coke deal with consumers feedback. Coke monitors the questions posted on Twitter and answers them. Clark says twitter has brought changes to coke customer service approach. More staffs are now been put on twitter’s page to respond to the ongoing traffic demands of the twitter page (usatoday. com). Coca-cola YouTube utilization YouTube is a none-paid for social media website that enables users to upload their videos and sha re them through the internet (Peers or expert? ). It was created in 2005; it has over a 100 million videos per day.This massive number account for 60% of all online videos. The nature of YouTube broadcasting allows the users to share their opinions online concerning the videos they have seen through rating (Social interaction and co-viewing with YouTube: Blending Mass Communication†¦). Coke employs the use of YouTube for advertising purpose through which the viewers can pass comments on their advert. The use of YouTube by Coca-cola gives the viewers the opportunity to view and pass comments on their ads. These commentaries generated helps coke in furthering their creativity when else they plan another advert.The reason has been that such commentaries are not immediately receivable under the traditional TV adverts. Though there are many other sites through which one can upload videos but coca-cola YouTube engagement gives better viewing opportunity in terms of marketing to the l arger audience. A scene from an advertisement provided by coca-cola on YouTube†¦ Result of the brand The social media world has invariably changed the nature of the modern day business approach and it has so far brought so many challenges and success to those brands using them to promote their products at different stages.Coca-cola through the social media utility has been able to generate millions of followers and viewers all over the world. These viewers in turn promote the brand through their spending on Coca-cola brands. Coca-cola has over 2 billion people drinking coke globally. A success story that is linkable to its creative prowess and leveraging with social media network sites like Facebook, twitter and YouTube (Coke’s social media success†¦). Coca-cola through the usage of these media continues to build an empire of loyal followers.Coca-cola having built these enormous followers does not just live them to communicate in isolation, rather the company strate gically put a monitoring body in place that responds to the followers queries and provide immediate response. Wendy Clark in an address recognized that â€Å"social listening† is very important in social media; it is necessary to communicate back to the followers. She said†¦Ã¢â‚¬ forget about the† like† button. It’s all about the â€Å"share†. It’s the most important. She concluded by saying that whatever content the company has to create must be shareable.She shared the story of a man who through immediate response from the Coca-cola twitter’s team went ahead and purchased a Vitamin water drink-an extended brand of Coca-cola (Coca-cola VP Talks†¦). A result oriented communication! Connectivity Coca-cola through it social media connect various groups via online activities. This engagement gives the opportunity to the consumers to share their experiences about the products among themselves. It also allows Co-ca cola to have fe edbacks on how the brand is doing in the market place.These feedbacks help in developing marketing strategies for the brand. From the ongoing, it is certain that Coca-cola social medial presence and engagement with its consumers has not only created awareness and loyalty for the brand; it has also generated increase in sales for the brand through its huge cyber group followers. As a result of its involvement with its followers, the brand is able to connect globally with the consumers at various locations all over the world within a particular circle-the social network.It is therefore, very necessary within this paper to recognize the fact that, social media as a marketing tool plays a significant part in the brand’s ability to reach its target audience. References 1. The chronicle of Coca-cola: Birth of a refreshing idea: Retrieved on 05/02/2012, from http://www. thecoca-colacompany. com/heritage/chronicle_birth_refreshing_idea. html 2. Coca-cola marketing mix 83: Retrieved o n 05/02/2012, from http://www. bilara. hubpage. com/hub/coca-cola-0 3. Coca-cola Fans page: Retrieved on 05/03/2012 from http://www. facebook. com/cocacola 4.Twitter, Inc (us): Retrieved on 05/03/2012 from http://www. coca-cola. com/en/index. html 5. Coke’s media success makes a lot out of little: Retrieved on 05/03/2012 from http://www. millwardbrown. com/global/blog/post/2011-12-19/coke-s-social-media-success-makes-a-lot-out-of-a-little. aspx 6. Coca-cola VP Talks about the keys to social media success: Retrieved on 05/03/2012 from http://www. marketingpilgrim. com/2011/04/coca-cola-vp-talks-about-the-keys-to-social-media-success. html 7. Brandtzaeg, P. , Luders, M. , & Skjetene, J. (2010). Too many Facebook â€Å"friends’?Content sharing and sociability versus the Need for privacy in social Network sites. International Journal of Human-computer interaction, 06-, 26(11/12), 1006-1030. doi: 10. 1080/10447318. 20010. 516719 8. Chu-chuan, C. (2011). Viral Advertising i n social media: Participation in facebook Group & Responses among college-Age users, Journal of Interactive Advertising, 12(10), 30-34 9. Decarie, C. (2010). Facebook: Challeges & Opportunities for Business Communication Students. Business Communication Quarterly, 73(4), 449-452. doi: 10. 1177/1080569910385383 10. Harisdakis, P. , & Hanson, G. 2009). Social Interaction and co-viewing with YouTube: Blending Mass Communication Reception and Social Connection Journal of Broadcasting & Electronic Media, (53(2), 317-335. doi: 10. 1080/08838150908270 11. Hye-Jin P. , Hove, T. , Hyun Ju. , & Mikyyoung, K. (2011). Peer or expert?. International Journal of Advertising 30(1), 161-188. 12. Hill, R. P. , & Moran, N. (2011). Social marketing meets interactive media. International Journal of Advertising. 30(5), 815-838. doi. 10. 2501/IJA-30-5-815-838. 13. Kwon ES & Sung, Young Jun (2011), Follow me! Global markers ‘Twitter’ Use.Journal of Interactive Advertising, 12 (10), 4-16. 14. S avage, N. (2011). Twitter as medium and message communication of The ACM, 54(3), 18-20. doi: 10. 1145. 1897860. 15. Yan, J. (2011). Social media in branding: Fulfilling a need. Journal of Branding Management, 18(9), 688-698. doi: 10. 1057/bm. 2011. 19 Abstract The social media group is very relevant in the modern day marketing strategy, it is very crucial for any brand that wants to be successful in today’s marketing operation to fully utilize the numerous advantages associated with this viral tool in marketing communications.This paper examines the results of, and the utilization of three social media tools by Coca-cola to connect, and create awareness among its target audience. The strategic use of these social media tools-Facebook, Twitter and YouTube eventually leads to more sales for Coca-cola brand. Table of contents Background history of Coca-cola———————————————â₠¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€-i Coca-cola brand image—————————————————————-ii The

Hobbes: Human Nature and Political Philosophy Essay

Thomas Hobbes writes in his 1651 masterpiece Leviathan of his interpretations of the inherent qualities of mankind, and the covenants through which they enter in order to secure a peaceful existence. His book is divided up into two separate sections; Of Man, in which Hobbes describes characteristics of humans coexisting without the protection of a superior earthly authority, and Of Commonwealth, which explains how humans trapped in that primal ?state of nature’ may escape and, through agreements, be able to live peaceably among one another without fear of unjust actions being taken against them. I too will discuss these elements of society as Hobbes intended them to be, with special emphasis on how human nature played a role in determining most of Hobbes’ basis for his political theories. In the introduction to Leviathan, Hobbes casts a highly mechanized view of humans by theorizing that they are simply a motion of limbs and simple machines that come together to produce a living, breathing, working human. â€Å"For what is the heart, but a spring; and the nerves, but so many strings; and the joints, but so many wheels, giving motion to the whole body, such as was intended by the Artificer? † (Leviathan, Introduction) Although this is a depiction of how Hobbes views the dynamics of the human body, he contends that human actions work in a similar, mechanistic way. According to the text, specific wants and appetites produce within the human body and are experienced as discomforts or pains (or to be more general, degrees of happiness or sadness) which must be overcome. Thus, each person is geared to act in such ways as we believe likely to relieve our discomfort, to preserve and promote our own well-being. (Leviathan, Pt. I Ch. 6) Thus, basically everything we decide to do is determined by a natural desire to avoid things that give our bodies negative feedback responses, and the opposite for things which our body tells us is good. Essentially, in this aspect Hobbes asserts that human decisions in this environment are guided only by our strongest desires at that given time and place. The idea being introduced here is pivotal. It is the notion of self-preservation; that in a state of nature in which there is no rule of law, and each man answers only to himself, people will do (an are fully entitled to do) anything they deem necessary to further their own existence. This animalistic view of human interaction yields Hobbes to conclude that each person (or grouping, such as a family) lives independently from every other person or group, and acts in their own self-interest without regard for others. Hobbes calls this a â€Å"state of war†, in which life is â€Å"solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short. † (Leviathan, Pt. I Ch.13) Hobbes later identifies three main causes of conflict in the state of nature which prevent man from entering into peace with one another. The first is competition, which makes people invade for their personal gain. The second is diffidence (distrust) which makes people invade out of fear; a mutual sense of insecurity forces one to anticipate an attack from someone they cannot trust (who likewise feels the same way), so pre-emptive measures are taken. This makes sense because one renders it better to be a surprisor, and not a surprisee, since being surprised meant an almost certain death. The last cause of conflict is glory, which makes people invade others for their own merit. Knowing these sources of problems, Hobbes then declares; â€Å"Hereby it is manifest, that during the time men live without a common power to keep them all in awe, they are in that condition which is called war; and such a war, as if of every man, against every man. † (Leviathan, Pt. I Ch. 13) Therefore, at this point it is safe to conclude that human nature in this sense is essentially dangerous and evil. However, assuming that all humans are rational individuals, Hobbes believes that mankind would naturally want to escape this hellish state of existence and live under agreements that ensure the rational causes of quarrel could be avoided (albeit the third cause of quarrel, glory, is noted as an irrational cause of conflict). By establishing a commonwealth, contends Hobbes, we essentially remove the structural causes of conflict and foster the conditions for humankind to prosper under its own benevolence through mutually beneficial agreements. (Leviathan, Pt. I Ch.14) Although Hobbes had indicated that the state of nature is horrific, he acknowledges the counter-argument that people might not want to leave it because they would have to surrender certain rights granted to them solely while in the state of nature. But Hobbes’ response is rather simple; for it is â€Å"the foresight of their own preservation, and of a more contented life thereby; that is to say, of getting themselves out from that miserable condition of war which is necessarily consequent, as hath been shown, to the natural passions of men when there is no visible power to keep them in awe, and tie them by fear of punishment to the performance of their covenants. † (Leviathan, Pt. 2 Ch. 17) What he is saying is that rational individuals would understand that life under a common authority would allow for better means of self-preservation, because it creates an entity that can punish people who do not play by the game fairly. Also, people would be unable to rely on their individual autonomous powers in the effort to secure livelihood and happiness. Hobbes calls the necessary central authority the Sovereign (the institutional embodiment of an orderly government), and those over whom it presides are the Subjects. Thus, Hobbes’ perception of human nature led him to develop his vision of an ideal form of rule that would govern these autonomous individuals. He believed that a sovereign power was required to keep men united, who would work to maintain the peace among the people as well as protect them from foreign enemies. The people would have to make an agreement among themselves to all submit to this ruler. The people would then submit their wills to the will of their ruler who would in turn assure their self-preservation, giving the ruler absolute control over his or her subjects. Assuming the people all do submit to this higher authority, the next step is determining the most appropriate form this sovereign entity must undertake. Hobbes offers three examples of governance in the text: a monarchy, an aristocracy, and a democracy. Although the sovereign can be a legislature or an assembly of citizens or a monarch, claims Hobbes, the commonwealth will run smoothest under a hereditary monarch, which to the reader sounds like an unusual choice given all the conditions of human nature previously mentioned. Hobbes defends this notion though, by explaining that investing power in a single person who can choose advisors and rule consistently without fear of internal conflicts yields the best fulfillment of our social needs. (Leviathan, Pt. II Ch. 19) With a hereditary monarch there is hardly any internal conflict, whereas in a democracy, aristocracy, or any other assembly of citizens there is constant conflict among individuals trying to advance their own private agendas. Logistically, Hobbes says the sovereign will exercise its authority over its subjects in the form of civil laws that are either decreed or implicitly accepted. (Leviathan, Pt. II Ch. 26) Those who violate the laws handed down will be appropriately punished by the sovereign authority. The end result of it all is the creation of the actual Leviathan; biblically, a monstrous sea creature, but in Hobbes’ scope, it was a metaphor for a fully functioning, healthy society. Just as he previously used references to the mechanistic view of how man functions to further explain the conditions of how humankind and society work in general, Hobbes employs the use of metaphor to tie it all together. Imagine the sovereign ruler as literally the head of a man, not only the point at which the ideals of the society are created, but the commander of the rest of the body. The hands and limbs are the administrators of the law, whoever they may be under the various examples of government Hobbes previously offered. The subjects of the sovereign are the cells of the body that basically construct it and make it what it is, and allow for everything else to take place. There’s no doubt that Hobbes’ view on human nature shaped the way his political theories were formed. His works were, and still are highly influential to political philosophers that followed after him, which allowed for further, more concise theories to be generated and debated. And despite the shortcomings of some of Hobbes’ philosophies (such as the feasibility of installing such a government under the premises offered), his work was revolutionary for its time and laid the foundation on which other later significant philosophers built their political ideologies.

Analysis on Empire of the Sun

G. Ballard who Is portrayed as Jamie In the movie(Breadline 1). At the beginning of the movie. While the mall character Jamie Is In his hotel room, he sees that the Japanese ships are attacking American ships that are docked at the harbor in Shanghai(Breadline 1). Japan also used aircrafts to bomb China(Dunn 1). Like most Americans, when a war begins they are scared, running for shelter and trying to get out of harms way. At any place or time when a war would begin, the actions of people would be the same as this movie portrayed it to be.In Empire of he Sun, people were screaming, running down streets and ducking from bullets as they were flying through the air. Since the war took place In 1941 the ships are very old, not as equips as they are today nor are they technologically advanced as the ships are now. Airplanes in this movie were also less sophisticated then they are today. The older aircrafts randomly dropped bombs in hopes of hitting a target, since then,aircrafts can drop b ombs with pinpoint accuracy(Dunn 2). In one scene, when planes were flying so low Jamie had to duck while he was standing on a alcohol.Today's airplanes can be thousands of feet In the alarm but still get the Job done on the ground. Near the middle of the movie, right after Jamie meets two American Merchant Seaman named Franks and Basis, all three get captured by the Japanese soldiers and are sent too detention center where they lived for four years. Japanese soldiers went around capturing civilians who were not Japanese. There were more than 14,000 white people in these camps(History on the Net 1). The detention center In the movie Is portrayed exactly how they were In the war.The centers are ridden with diseases, no food or water, ripped or warn out clothing and very tight quarters. For example, there could be as many as 10 men in a 16 X 16 foot room at the camp(Harris 1). One in every three people died of starvation(History on the Net 1). That is exactly how it was in real life f or captured civilians. The movie showed how horribly harsh it was to live in a detention center during the war, but Jamie seemed to like it. The scene Is historically accurate because the American planes had bombed the camp to gain control.At the end of the movie James camp was rescued by American soldiers that took all the kids from the POP camp to a hospital camp to find their parents. Waiting outside the camp, Jamie is hoping his parents would arrive. Being captured for that many years, people's appearances changes especially one of a child. The scene depicted many happy kids being reunited with their parents as was Jasmine's feeling when he finally found his parents. Being separated from his parents at ten Declining AT ten war Ana Delving alone Tort Tour years, en may now want to stay lose to their side until he is an adult.Sometimes there is good that comes out of a war as in this movie where soldiers and nurses will do whatever it takes to reunite love ones. In all, the movie is a historically accurate film based on a true story from war time. It shows scenes that the director wants to portray correctly. The director shows how a child must learn to grow up very quick and learn how to survive. This director also showed how war was different in 1941 to today in regards to how the ships and airplanes differ from then and now.

Attacking Cryptography Computer Security Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Attacking Cryptography Computer Security - Essay Example Operating Systems store information about commonly used programs and through the network, programs such as KeePass can read encrypted files, posing a serious attack to cryptography as a data protection technique. Even so, the challenge for KeePass is that it operates for a limited duration beyond which it does not have the capability to read encrypted files. A number of encrypted data files stored in the various cache locations are at risk of attacks by such malicious program as KeePass. These programs can study the number of times a cryptographic system used the same cache locations (Dong & Chen, 2012). This study investigates and presents cryptographic attack trees which illustrate the methods Charlie can use to read Alice’s data files in the data transfer channel. KeePass can use the memory address information in the network to access the locations of the files using a set of secret coded access keys in the operation (Vacca, 2012). The attack trees demonstrate a clear and r eliable procedure for studying the access keys considering the information on the patterns of memory access. The trees have to show the possibility of KeePass increasing its speed of data search in order to access the secret keys within a fraction of a second to enable the actual attack on cryptographic process to be successful. 2. Possibilities of Attack Out of the study, the expectation is to discover ways of improving cryptography as a means of data protection. Various computer security firms provide information about data protection methods, encryption and decryption being one of them (Echizen, Kunihiro & Sasaki, 2010). The experts in the field of information security use special software applications to block hackers from accessing information from their servers and in the entire unsecure channels in the networks. These hacker-proof programs are the targets of cryptography attack, using the same strategies as KeePass. Another common open source hacker-proof application in the g lobal network is triple-DES security. In essence, it is intriguing to realize that secure channels are also at risk of being broken into at any time. Cryptography has for a long time been among the safest methods for transferring information in the global data transfer networks. With the possibility of breaking through the unbreakable security calls for newer ways of improving the cryptographic designs apart from discovering other alternative options of data protection (Handschuh & Hasan, 2005). The capability of KeePass and other key cracking software programs is a real proof that even strong cryptography keys get broken into. This implies that there are attacks that are beyond the capability men. Information security experts must first exhaustively identify the sources of cryptographic attacks (Anupam, 2009). This can be done through designing ways of modeling threats of attacks against computer systems. This requires a god understanding of all possible ways through which system a ttacks can be possible. This study focuses on ways of designing counterattacks methods such as access key protection in order to frustrate the possible attacks. 2.1. Key Protection The possibility of information attacks emerges as a result of ignorance of information

First nation studies - R. V. Sparrow case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

First nation studies - R. V. Sparrow - Case Study Example As the categories of Aboriginal rights in Section 35 were not clearly mentioned in the Act, it was claimed that the aboriginal right to fishing was not extinguished before implementation of the 1982 Constitution Act and hence, the arrest of Ronald Sparrow in this case was unjustified (Binnie 217). The claim was put up in the court of British Columbia with the full support of Musqueam band who viewed the arrest of their member, Ronal Sparrow to be unjustified. They opposed that the government had no rights to infringe upon the aboriginal rights of people in undertaking activities of fishing, hunting, etc as the these rights were not extinguished before the Section 35 of 1982 Constitution Act was passed (Tennant 375). The claim received support from the scholars and human rights activists. The supporters of this case were of the view that the provincial regulations in British Columbia discriminated the aboriginal rights of the people as opposed to the non-aboriginal rights which were unjustified in terms of law of the land. The court case of Ronald Sparrow continued for about six years starting from the initial point of claim in the lower courts to the final verdict being given by the Supreme Court. After the arrest of Musqueam band member, Ronald Sparrow in 1984, the case was filed which eventually moved to the Supreme Court in 1988 and continued till 1990. The proceedings of the court case started with the conviction of Ronald Sparrow as he accepted the fact that he was fishing with a net larger than that mentioned in his food license. However, in his defense Mr. Sparrow argued that he was at the same time executing an aboriginal right of fishing which has been inherited by him from his ancestors. The Crown on the other hand tried to establish that the aboriginal rights have been regulated from the time the Constitution Act of 1982 has been

Drug addiction Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Drug addiction - Research Paper Example Drug addiction has negative consequences to both individuals and society. One of the main consequences is the increased burden to the community and individuals (Conrad & Anggard, 1977). Moreover, drug abuse affects the health status of the individual and other forms of their social life. This paper seeks to focus on drug addiction. Drug Addiction Drug addiction is a persisting problem and affects the brains resulting into compulsive drug seeking and use even when there are negative outcomes to the individual and society (NIDA, 2011). Initially, individual take the drug for casual, recreation, leisure, or entertainment. However, continuous use of the drug affects the brain in a way that the affected individual is unable to overcome the temptation of taking more drugs. Treatment is available for this condition. Most of the treatments are behavior oriented coupled with appropriate recommendations. Most of the treatment focuses on changing the social behavior of the individual involved. This means drug addiction can be managed successful reducing further damage to the individual involved. The management of drug addiction is similar to those of other chronic diseases (Conrad & Anggard, 1977. This means such care requires more attention and absolute obedience to the individuals undergoing such form of therapy. Effects of Drugs to the Brain The problem of drug addiction starts from the brain. Drugs contain chemicals that affect the brain communication system and configure the nerve cells (NIDA, 2011). This happens in two ways. They mimic the brain natural messengers and overstimulation of brain functioning system (NIDA, 2011). Some drugs have similar components as the chemical messengers found in the body. These chemical messengers are known as the neurotransmitters. Such drugs include cannabis and heroine. These drugs configure the brain receptors and stimulate the nerve cells to send abnormal messages (NIDA, 2011). Other drug causes abnormal production of chemical messengers in the brain. An example of such drug is cocaine. They prevent the normal recycling of the brain chemicals that are supposed to stop connections between neurons (NIDA, 2011). This disfigures dopamine that is responsible for controlling movement, emotion, motivation, and feelings of pleasure (NIDA, 2011). This leads to ecstatic events in response t o psychoactive drugs. Consequently, such individuals are accustomed to repeating the beneficial behavior of abusing drugs. Those that abuse such drugs are unable to enjoy the drugs and other events in life. Consequently, this decrease in satisfaction forces leads to more use of drug in order to maintain the function of dopamine to normality (NIDA, 2011). This means high amount of drug is required to maintain normalcy. In addition, other changes occur in the brain due to continued abuse of drugs. Such change affects the glutamate. The neurotransmitter affects the system functionality and the ability to learn (NIDA, 2011). When the normal amount of the neurotransmitter is affected by drug abuse, the brain tries to bring normalcy, and this may reduce the cognitive function (NIDA, 2011). This defect has been shown to affect brain processes such as learning and memory (NIDA, 2011). These challenges make the abusers seek out and continually use drugs even when there are widespread

American Creation by Joesph Ellis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

American Creation by Joesph Ellis - Essay Example Writing about great historical personalities without idolizing or condemning them had been his style. The book under review, American Creation, Which details events from 1775 to 1803, is thus another typical work by Joseph Ellis. American Creation is a critical revisit to the founding years of America. This country and its ideals were formulated by the bold and creative experiments in political ideals by a group of men highly dedicated and determined, in the last quarter of the nineteenth century. There were historical occasions when they triumphed, but there were tragedies too. Both triumphs and tragedies contributed to the shaping the United States. The book takes us through the first shots fired at Lexington to signing of the Declaration of Independence to the Louisiana Purchase. As the process of history unveils, some philosophies emerge, some alliances get shifted, and some personalities fade in who later are to become the iconic leaders of the nation ----Washington, Jefferson, Madison, Hamilton, and Adams. Ellis argues that the American Revolution, unlike the French Revolution, was more an evolution. The gradual and slow pace at which it happened makes it extra ordinary. In the prologue of the book Ell is makes this point clear thus: â€Å"In terms of creativity, the control of pace was almost as impressive as the control of space. The founders opted for an evolutionary rather than revolutionary version of political and social change, preferring to delay delivery of full promise of the American Revolution rather than risk implosion in the mode of French Revolution.† (American Creation—Prologue) .The American experiment in freedom and democracy was unique. America rejected monarchial system of the old world, and experimented with democracy and republicanism. This uniqueness was what President Abraham Lincoln expressed when he called America, â€Å"the last, best, hope of earth†. The two-party

Cocaine effects on a newborn Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Cocaine effects on a newborn - Essay Example Another risk is â€Å"placental abruption†, a premature separation of the placenta from the uterus wall which may cause excessive bleeding and death risk to both the mother and baby (â€Å"Cocaine Addiction and Pregnancy: Effects on Newborns†). Cocaine effect on newborns is serious. The pregnant woman’s use of cocaine can decrease the supply of nutrients and oxygen to the growing fetus. Cocaine-exposed babies have low birth weight, low Apgar score, shorter length and smaller head circumference than unexposed babies. These consequences can be a sign of future developmental delays and abnormalities. Babies from mothers using cocaine have greater possibility of being born prematurely. These babies experience breathing difficulties which may cause stroke even before birth or immediately after birth. Stroke can lead to the development of lifetime brain and developmental disorders (â€Å"Cocaine and Pregnancy†). newborns are often irritable, hyperactive, sleepless and have a low frustration tolerance, muscular stiffness, visual disturbances, low feeding and sucking abilities and sensory incapacities. There have been reported cases of loose bowels, vomiting, and seizure occurrences. A number of these problems may last for 2 to 2  ½ months after birth (â€Å"Cocaine and Pregnancy†). Cocaine-exposed newborns may go into deep sleep for longer than usual (Gorski). Pregnant mothers who uses cocaine for an extended duration may deliver babies that have birth defects and abnormalities in the face, brain, heart, eyes, limbs and muscles. Some babies may be born with intestinal, genitals and urinary problems (â€Å"Cocaine and Pregnancy†). When cocaine enters the placenta, it disturbs the circulation inside the fetus’ body. Cocaine stays in the body of the developing fetus for an extended duration. That is why evidences of cocaine can be found in the urine and hair

HRIS Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3250 words

HRIS - Essay Example This resulted in inconsistent outcomes and the cost of the human resource was also increased to a great extent. Consequently, the manager is desperate to find out appropriate solutions to overcome these issues due to which he is looking for different vendors that would make things better within the organization. There were basically two choices of vendors that could work well for this business. It includes; the pro staff files and the Auxillian West Human Resource Software. The pro staff files works well for huge organization like Castle’s Family Restaurant whereas the HRnet source is applicable on the small or mid-size organizations. As far as my opinion is concerned I prefer that Mr. Morgan selects the pro staff files as this a high profile business. Knowing the fact that the HRnet could only be used for smaller organizations it is likely to be disqualified. Henceforth, this is a time where Mr. Morgan should lead form the from the front and take a decision that should make things better and produce consistent and efficient results along with creating a diverse environment within the workplace. One thing that plays a significant role for an organization to be successful is its well organized Human Resource Department. The Human Resource Department can either make or break the organization. It helps to operate the business smoothly along with improving the information and technology processes. With the rapid advancements in the technology it is essential for any organization to maximize their focus on the technology and produce effective results. It has been witnessed that the introduction of Human Resource Information System obliged to set up a computerized system rather than depending much on manual work. Castle’s Family Restaurant has also decided to maintain a HRIS in order to create diversity within the workplace. However, this was not very easy as the company had to go

Towards Effective Diversity Communication at ABC Assignment

Towards Effective Diversity Communication at ABC - Assignment Example According to the report the American Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) is also keen on reflecting America’s cultural and ethnic diversity and this inevitably calls for broadening the diversity of its workforce. For instance, as part of its diversity initiative, the corporation now broadcasts programs that represent America’s diverse ethnic and cultural identities including shows by African Americans, Latina, as well as Asian lead hosts. With the widening ethnic and cultural diversity at the ABC, there are innumerable points of conflict that may easily provoke conflicts due to disagreements or misunderstandings within the organization.From this discussionn it is clear that  the increasing ethnic and cultural diversity at ABC poses critical communication challenges, especially because the corporation’s diverse workforce espouses varied and often opposed cultural values and beliefs, which exert a profound impact on their communication styles.  In light of the many communication challenges that arise among workforces, as a result of the increasingly multicultural workplaces and diverse communities, it is imperative for the ABC to initiate and incorporate multicultural communication strategies within its organizational communications framework. Generally, the news agency should initiate multicultural communication workshops to teach its diverse workforces about cultural differences and cross-cultural competences that are critical for interacting with people from diverse cultural background.

Human Rights and the Privacy law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Human Rights and the Privacy law - Essay Example The rights contained within the law are based on European Convention on Human Rights articles. It also gives further effects to freedom and rights that are guaranteed under the European Convention. This means that judges must study and give effect to the legislation in a way that is compatible with the convention rights. It also implicates unlawfulness for a public authority to act in an incompatible way with the conventional right. The Human Rights Act protects; the right of life, the prohibition of torture and inhumane treatment, protection against forced labor and slavery, the right for freedom and liberty, the right for fair trial and no punishment without law and freedom of thought belief and religion. The act also gives respect privacy and family life providing the right to marry.Privacy and freedom of speech are important human rights that have not been strongly protected in English law. The freedom of speech has been a residual liberty traditionally because it existed only wh en the statute did not restrict its exercise. Liberty law on the other hand, is largely governed by the common law and is concerned with the protection of individual rights to reputation. This is vital for freedom of press and speech. However, there has been no explicit right of privacy. Even though the European Convention guarantees both rights, the English courts must take account of decisions of the European Court of Human Rights in order to interpret and apply Convention rights under HRA (Human Rights Act 1998).

American Fast Food in Korea Essay Example for Free

American Fast Food in Korea Essay 1. Base on market information for Asia Pacific, we can made conclusion that business future in Asian region has to have bright future. With 33% of the worlds GDP and 50% of its population, Asia has emerged as a rapidly growing force in the global economy. Due to the cultural diversity, regulatory controls, growing base of consumer power and its own set of business rules, the multinational corporations (MNCs) find it challenging to enter the Asian market successfully. Most MNCs are reassessing their existing strategies or formulating new strategies to sustain their growth (4). With regional exports exceeding $1. 3 trillion, the East Asia and Pacific region’s share of trade in GDP is the highest in the world. (Global Development. Finance Report. 2006). The economy of South Korea has grown in the last 35 years. Per capita GNP only $100 in 1963, exceeded $20,000 USD in 2005. South Korea is now one of the worlds largest economies (as of 2006, it is 14th in the world according to GDP). (2). If we will compare Korean market to East Asian countries (Exhibit 1 p. 12). From report I have strong understanding that mane fast-food market in any Asian countries is in big cities. Let’s check urban population level in all Asian countries. Based on Exhibit 1 we can clearly see that Korea has one of the best Urban Population level-total population level 47. 6 million and urban population is 82%. Check GDP and GNI level. We can see that Korean level one of the highest in the Asia. Nominal GDP (2005 est. ): $811. 1 billion. GDP growth rate: 2003, 3. 1%; 2004, 4. 6%; 2005, 4. 0%. Per capita GNI (2004): $14, 162. (5). In 1997 Korea had some serious economic crises and faced sever difficulties. After some structural reforms in Korean government, economy starts to recovery. Already In 2001 Korea was 13th largest economy in the world with GNP of $398 billion. So based on all information from above I can make conclusion that Korea has good future and it is one of the most promising market in Asian region. 2. Porters Five Forces have become a yardstick for assessing industry profitability. They are ?Buyers/customers power ?Suppliers power ?Rivalry among competitors ?Threat of new entrants ?Threat of substitute products I will try to analyze each one, for Korean fast food market. Buyers ‘power. The power of buyers is the impact that customers have on fast food industry. Buyers could be powerful in different circumstances. I believe that in our case we can say that buyers are concentrated. As I could explain earlier, main per cent of population in Korea are in the big cities. Its give us good idea that for fast food industry in this region will be easier to delivery product to the customers. Buyers purchase the significant proportion of output. Suppliers power. A fast food industry require raw material for there business-labor, components. It leads to buyer-supplier relationship between the fast food industry and the firms that provide it the raw materials used to create products. Suppliers are powerful if they are concentrated- it will be really expensive to switch the supplier. From another side suppliers are week if it will be many suppliers with standard product on the market Korean agriculture sector includes forestry and fisheries. National products are rice, vegetables, fruit, root crops, barley; cattle, pigs, chickens, milk, eggs, fish. About 20% of the land used for agricultural busyness (5). From here we can understand that for fast food companies will be easy to find or switch the suppliers without problems for there businesses. Threat of new entrants. The possibility that new firms may enter the industry also affects competition. In theory any firm should be able to enter and exit market. And if free entrance and exit exists, than profit always should be nominal. There are some barriers of entry. Easy to entry if: little brand franchise; access to distribution channels; common technology. On Korean market steal not allot firms with brand franchise. And it is big requirement in new choices for customers. It let us know that it will be easy to enter to the market. Threat of substitute products. Product price elasticity is affected by substitute products-as more substitute become available, the demand becomes more elastic since customers have more alternatives. A close substitute product constrains the ability of firms in an industry to raise prices. In our case we can see example of some firms, Lotteria and McDonalds, who easy change there recipes for Korean customers which needs more healthy national ingredients for there food. Rivalry among competitors. In pursuing an advantage over its rivals, a firm can choose from several competitive moves: changing prices; improving product; creatively using channels of distribution; exploiting relationship with supplier. For firm who will try to enter Korean market, I would say more realistic and more helpful move will be to improve products. Improving quality of materials, quality of services, and probably quality of food preparation technology (healthier environment), will be most important key to success on the Korean fest food market. 3. Urban Koreans eat out frequently. Fast paced lifestyles are driving Koreans to choose western-style fast-food, but healthy eating is a concern. These factors are driving a fast growing market for sandwich store franchising (3). Another important factor is that about 75%-80% fast food customers are young people whose age less than 20 year old. It is mean that â€Å"along with westernization of Korean taste, western chain gained in popularity†. In the past, people seeking a fast meal would have been satisfied by fast-food giants like McDonalds or Burger King, but it is changing. Consumers are seeking different choices. This new requirements has opened doors for a steadily growing market for fresh and healthy sandwich businesses. Lotteria is a local hamburger franchiser and is the fast-food market leader in Korea. From 2002 to 2003 Lotteria experienced a sharp sales drop of 40%. However, a strong contrast was seen in the South Korean sandwich market, as its $41. 20 million1 market value in the second quarter of 2003 doubled to $82. 40 million in the fourth quarter. This dramatic growth is forecast to continue, and the anticipated market value for 2004 is $117. 71 million (3) Besides Lotteria, the local franchisers include Sandday, Sandpresso and Sand Food. In response to the aggressive foreign companies, they are also coming up with strategies to secure their position within the market, and the competition is about to heat up. Based on all this information I would say that fast food business in Korea growing and this will continue until people need more choices. 4Globalization is the key to sustained growth for Yum Company! Brands, the world’s biggest quick-service restaurant company headquartered in the United States and managing five fast food brands KFC, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell, AW and Long John Silver’s. Demand for fast food is rising because lifestyles are changing,’’ said Allan, who leads overseas operations outside of the U. S.and China, in a recent interview with The Korea Times. More Koreans are being time pressured than they were historically. This trend is happening here. The number of people eating ready made food is continuing to increase. ’’(Graham Allan, president of Yum! Restaurants International. 11. 06. 2006) (6). As a socially responsible company, the 51-year-old executive said Yum will provide more optional dishes to health-conscious consumers amid a well-being spree in the nation, but will not abandon its traditional concept of great taste. ’’ Under his leadership, Allan said he will target an annual growth of 10 percent or more in operating profits. There are about 250 Pizza Hut delivery outlets in the nation, which are set to expand to over 400. Korea makes up about 5 percent of Yum’s international division sales, which amount to some $11 billion half of the group’s overall system sales. If I were business consultant, I would recommend starting making money on Korean fast food market. The new trend is propelling growth in the franchising market. It is anticipated that the market will experience intense competition for the next couple years. New fast food companies should be able to take advantage of the situation and enter the market without much difficulty, while it is still at an early stage of development. Reference page: 1. http://www. iff. com/Internet. nsf/0/B7A5C7E9B662B52685256D02006683DA 2. http://www. answers. com/topic/economy-of-south-korea 3. http://ats. agr. ca/asia/3879_e. htm 4. www. berkeleyabc. org/2006/ 5. http://www. state. gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/2800. htm 6. http://times. hankooki. com/lpage/biz/200611/kt2006110617463411890. htm.

A Child Protection Social Worker Social Work Essay

A Child Protection Social Worker Social Work Essay Upon a social service department receiving the initial referral a decision will be made by the manager whether to act upon the information received. In the case of Samantha and her children the referral offers enough information to meet the criteria for a social worker to undertake an Initial Assessment. Local Authority (Social Services) Act (1970), places a duty on authorities to provided social services. It sets out a legal framework for local authorities and social work responsibilities in a statutory role, this being continually updated. In the case of Samantha and her children the authority in which the family reside in have a legal responsibility to undertake an assessment and a corporate obligation to provide services to children in need and adults, if necessary. Powers grant Local Authorities to act in certain ways but there is no obligation to do so and there is a degree of discretion of how powers are applied. In relation to the case study, the social worker would have the power to initiate contact with the family and other professionals they felt may provide valuable information to assist in the assessment process (Brammer, 2010). When carrying out the assessment, the social worker would refer to legislation which governs what they can do in order to safeguard children. The Children Act, (1989) sets out that the welfare of the child is paramount, the child being the primary client (Brayne Carr, 2010). The Act provides the legal framework within which social work practice with children and families is situated and promotes the family as being the best place for the child to be brought up in, where it is safe and possible to do so. The Act also includes principals with regards to welfare, childrens rights and introduced the concept of parental responsibility (Children Act, 1989, s.3, Brammer, 2010). The Act states that the local authority is required to provide services for children in need, their families and others (Children Act 1989, sec.17) and investigate if they have reasonable cause to suspect a child is suffering or is likely to suffer from significant harm (Children Act 1989, sec.47). It also gives the authority the power to apply to the court if they believe the child is suffering or is likely to suffer significant harm, placing the child in local authority care (Children Act, 1989, sec 31). The Children Act (2004) was introduced following an enquiry into the death of Victoria Climbe by Lord Laming. The Government responded by producing a green paper Every Child Matters and Wales Rights to Action, this led onto pass the Children Act 2004. Its main focus is to highlight the importance of multi-agency working placing a duty on local authorities and their partners including health, schools, and the Police to work responsibly and collaboratively to promote the wellbeing and safety of children. A common assessment framework was introduced so that social workers and partner agencies could provide better preventative support for families deemed not to reach child protection thresholds. The introduction of the Common Assessment Framework (CAF) considers a holistic view of the child and their family, incorporating the childs developmental needs, parenting capacity and family and environmental factors (Brammer, 2010). In relation to the case study there have been concerns regardin g Callum and Claudia from their school. The Education Act 2002 also includes a provision requiring school governing bodies, education authorities and further education institutions to safeguard and promote the welfare of children (NSPCC, 2012). Using the CAF will also allow the social worker to explore family issues concerning the childrens father, older siblings and immediate family. The CAF will also consider the families identity and promote any welsh language needs in accordance with the Welsh Language Act 1993 (CCW, 2002, 1.6). In response to the Children Act, 2004 the Welsh Assembly Government (WAG) produced, Safeguarding Children; Working Together under the Children Act 2004, providing local authorities with guidelines and descriptions of roles of partner agencies and focused on working responsively and proactively (WAG, 2004). The All Wales Child Protection Procedures, 2008 were also introduced upon recommendations from Lord Lamings report requesting that governments strengt hen their child protection procedures (WAG, 2008). The Human Rights Act 1989 also plays an important role in the social work assessment. Professionals are required to uphold and defend the rights of individuals whilst seeking to meet their needs. The Act has also heavily influenced the Disability Discriminations Act, 2005 and Equality Act, 2006 2010 (Brayne Shoot, 2010). Wales have also implemented their own introducing The Equality and Human Rights Commission in 2007 (BASW, 2011). This legislation will be relevant when taking into account the needs of Samantha in relation to her historical mental health problems. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child 1989 (UNCRC), is an international agreement that protects the human rights of children under the age of eighteen and recognises children as possessing rights on equal footing with adults. This along with the Human Rights Act 1989 is instrumental in the CAF as it requests that the child is to be seen and a consideration of their needs and wishes recorded. The children, along with Samantha have the right to have their wishes and feelings known in relation to any assessment or intervention undertaken (Children Act, 1989 sec. 22 Human Rights Act, 1989, UNCRC, 1989 article 12). There are also national bodies that provide social care professionals with common guidance on their practice. These are the British Association of Social Workers (BASW), the General Social Care Council (GSCC) and in relation to Wales the Care Council of Wales (CCW) and the National Occupational Standards of Social Work (NOS). The legislation and guidance discussed will assist the social worker in undertaking an initial assessment of Samantha and her children. Using the CAF will help to establish what support if any the family requires. The assessment should show the strengths, difficulties and impact of the situation on the family (Parker Bradley, 2008). The social worker will need to determine from an analyses of the assessment whether the children are children in need (Children Act, 1989 sec. 17) or children in need of protection (Children Act 1989 sec.47). The worker will be required to work alongside other professionals in a multi-agency approach in particular education, possible mental health agencies and recognising that the children, in particular Callum maybe a young carer (Children Act, 2004, Disability Discrimination Act, 2005, Equality Act, 2006 2010, Carers Recognition Services Act 1995). The social worker would also be abiding by statutory bodies codes of ethics in recognising and promotin g services users rights, working open and honestly and respecting their views and wishes (BASW, 2012 CCW, 2002, CCW, 2003 GSCC, 2002). Section B. Upon receipt of this further information from the Health Visitor, the Local Authority would have a duty under the Children Act 1989 to initiate Sec.47 enquiries. The Children Act 1989 Sec. 1b states that, If the local authority have reasonable cause to suspect that a child who lives or is found in their area is suffering or is likely to suffer significant harm. The authority shall make or cause to be made such enquiries as they consider necessary to enable them to decide whether they should safeguard or promote the childs welfare. Following this legislation the social worker in consultation with a senior manager would undertake a strategy discussion at the earliest opportunity. Information would be gathered from the referrer and also the consultant paediatrician and discussed with the police; this can be done via telephone (WAG, 2008). Any other relevant information about the family should also be shared during this time. Information should be given to the Police regarding Samanthas partner David and checked against the police national database, although this should have been done as part of the Core Assessment process. Pertinent questions should be raised regarding the consultants assessment of the alleged burn marks; How did the hospital visit come about? Why did the consultant not make the referral themselves? Was Claudia sent home after the examination? The strategy discussion should agree the course of action to be taken; if a medical examination is needed, whether the investigation would be a single or j oint agency response (social services alone or in conjunction with the police) and what information should be shared with the family at this time. It should also take into consideration the needs of any other children who may be affected, in this case Claudias brother Callum (WAG, 2008). As part of the Sec.47 enquiries it is a statutory requirement for the social worker to see the child unless there is enough evidence and information to proceed (Children Act, 1989 s47.4). It is important that any discussions with children are done in a way that minimises the distress and maximises the likelihood of them providing clear and accurate accounts (Brayne Carr, 2010). Due to the seriousness of the information regarding Claudia and Callum and the presence of a potential non accidental injury, the decision needs to be made whether emergency action is needed. This may be because access to the child is being refused; parent is refusing a medical examination or deliberately delaying enquiries. Legal advice should also be available through the local authoritys legal service (WAG, 2008). Following this there are a range of options available to the local authority for securing the protection of Claudia and Callum. Samantha may agree to David leaving the household and sign a safe-care agreement for him not to have contact with the children. Although this may not be possible as there are allegations of a non-accidental injury with no reasonable explanation to the cause. Claudia and Callum may be cared for be extended family subject to safeguarding checks (WAG, 2008). The children may be looked after by the local authority with parental agreement (Children Act, 1989, sec. 20). Social services can also make an application to court for an Emergency Protection Order, allowing them to accommodate the children for up to eight days without parental consent. The last option is Powers of Police Protection whereby the Police have the power to remove the children (WAG, 2008, Williams, 2008). Although there must be no delay in safeguarding children who are at risk, it is important to be aware of the possible trauma and disruption such proceedings may have on the children involved and every effort must be made to minimise this. Section C. Under the Human Rights Act 1998, Claudia has the right to respect for a family life and privacy and local authorities have to justify any interference in family life with any involvement being necessary and proportionate (HRA, 1998 article.8). This is also supported by the UNCRC 1988. These rights can be compromised when there are concerns regarding child welfare and child protection. Local authorities exercising their legal duties and functions must do so without violating the rights of children and their parents. In relation to Claudia and the escalating concerns for her welfare and safety, social services are legally justified in intervening in family life if it is to protect her health and wellbeing (Laird, 2010). This must only happen in accordance to the law, Children Act 1989 and must not interfere with the convention law, beyond what is absolutely essential to prevent some kind of harm (Laird, 2010, p150). The case study highlights incidents of escalating seriousness with regards to Claudia, she has suspected non accidental injuries and her brother Callum has alleged that David has slept in her room on occasions, this alongside on-going issues of neglect. This information would be sufficient to trigger compulsory measures by the local authority under sec.47 Children Act 1989. Section 47 enquiries and powers of police protection to remove children in an emergency do not require a court order. A court order ensures that there is a forum in which the rights of those who are involved and what is needed in order to safeguard the child can be considered by a judge, this ensures that in most cases compulsory measures will not normally breach Article 8 ECHR (Williams, 2008). In situations of extreme urgency where the child is at risk of significant harm, relating to the case study and the non-accidental injuries to Claudia, the local authority can apply to the court for an emergency protection order (EPO) which can be granted by a single magistrate without the prior knowledge of the parents (Laird, 2010). Courts must regard Claudias welfare as paramount and must be satisfied that making an order is better than making no order at all. Local authorities must look to identify family placements for the child before opting for foster care. Laird (2010) uses an example of X Local Authority v B (Emergency Protection Orders), whereby the local authority where the children lived did not take into account the viability of placements with extended family members before applying for an EPO. This contravening article 8, as removing the children from all their relatives into foster care is the most extreme interference in family life. In relation to Claudia, if she was to be removed from the care of her mother, into foster care and possibly separated from her brother, without giving prior consideration to any immediate or extended family may breach her rights under article 8 or the Human Rights Act 1998 and UNCRC 1989. Working in partnership with professionals during child protection procedures is guided through legislation and agency roles, powers and duties. The difficultly can be working in partnership with parents especially when they are not in agreement with the process. In child protection work the relationship between parent and social worker can be fraught and tightly directed by legal and procedural requirements (Pinkerton Devaney, 2009). If Claudia was to remain in the care of her mother, she would be the subject of an Initial Child Protection Conference. WAG (2008) states that where possible parents and others with parental responsibility should be invited to attend and helped fully to take part. They also have the option of bringing an advocate or legal representative. Family members and professional should be able to share information in a safe and non-threatening environment and for family members to speak to the chair in the absence of other relatives, especially if there is a risk of violence or intimidation (Brammer, 2007 CCW, 2002, 1.3, 3.1). This could be apparent in relation to Samantha if Claudias father having parental responsibility also attended the conference. The social worker should also meet with the parents beforehand to share the report which highlights the concerns bringing them to conference. The chair should also meet before the conference to ensure that they understand the procedure and purpose of the event (Brammer, 2007). At six years old, Claudia is able to voice her wishes and feelings and this should be done through direct work with the social worker, not to obtain a disclosure about possible abuse, but to build a trusting relationship between worker and child with the child being able to feel safe and secure whether they remain at home or in placement (Milner OByrne, 2009, CCW, 2002 1.2, 2.1 UNCRC, 1989, article 12). Studies show that children are capable of understanding complex situations and are able to construct ways of dealing w ith them, so an honest explanation of the situation is more productive, however young they are. However issues can arise when the child knows only too well the seriousness of the situation. Claudia may hesitate and feel unable to talk freely as she may worry how the information discussed will be used. If she is to return home to her mother, she may be questioned over what she has said (Milner OByrne, 2009). Although the worker will respect the confidentially of Claudia, it is not wholly guaranteed and this should be explained to her in an age appropriate manner, ensuring her understanding (BASW, 2011, CCW, 2002, 2.3, Children Act 2004 sec. 12). Any disclosures from Claudia which could potentially put her or others at risk will require compulsory action under sec. 47 Children Act 1989. Whilst working with Claudia and her family the social worker will be guided by legislation and statutory guidance which will on times conflict with human rights and ethical values. The very nature of child protection work can be oppressive with a distinct power imbalance. The power and status is firmly with the worker who is advantaged by being someone of the authority. It is also likely to be reinforced by the parents and children being disadvantaged by gender, class, race and age (Pinkerton Devaney, 2009). Childrens rights to protection are clearly laid out in international and domestic law (Human Rights Act, 1998, UNCRC, 1989, Children Act, 1989/2004) and promoted in national and international codes of ethics and practice guidance (International Federation of Social Workers, British Association of Social Workers Care Council of Wales). In relation to Claudia the Human Rights Act 1989 and UNCRC 1989 article 8, supports her right to remain in the care of her mother. In contrast to this article 19 ensures that Claudia is protected from violence, abuse and neglect by her parents or anyone else who looks after her. Article 9 goes on to support the removal of the child for their own protection but promotes contact with parents if safe to do so (UNCRC, 1989). The social worker would encounter ethical dilemmas during her work with Claudia and have to balance her needs and interests where they may conflict with those of others, especially other professionals, and child protection issues in regards to her safety (CCW, 2002, BASW, 2011). The worker would apply the relevant codes of ethics and practice around issues of information sharing and confidentiality (CCW, 2002 2.3, 6.5, 6.7). However in relation to child protection and the law, the welfare of the child would always be paramount over any rights of confidentiality (Children Act, 1989). The social worker would need to give due consideration regarding Claudias life-skills and knowledge and promote her participation in the process that concerns her (BASW, 2011, 2.1, CCW, 2002, 1.1, 1.2, 3.1). Although consideration of a childs wishes and feelings does not impose a duty to act upon them (Brayne Preston-Shoot, 2010). Overall this assignment highlights the complex nature of social work in one of the most demanding areas, child protection. The need to follow legislation and statutory guidance and to balance that with the individuals human rights, taking into consideration ethics, non-oppressive and anti-discriminatory practice can, on times be a highly contentious process but one that hopefully has the desired outcome, the child has been protected and is safe from harm. Children have a right to live in this world and be protected from violence, abuse and neglect and child protection should be the business of everyone. There have been incidents when things have gone wrong and unfortunately children have died as a result, lessons have been learnt and law and policy nationally and internationally has been changed to hopefully prevent this in the future.

Current Macroeconomic Environment And Policy Of Australia Economics Essay

Current Macroeconomic Environment And Policy Of Australia Economics Essay A strong economy displays characteristics of maximizing growth as well as internal and external balance whilst minimising inflation, foreign debts and liabilities. There are various policies in Australia governing the macroeconomics including Fiscal and Monetary policies. Both these policies influence the economy through altering aggregate demand. In the last three years, since the onset of Global Financial Crisis, Australia has applied both expansionary monetary and fiscal policies to increase aggregate demand. There seems to be a general agreement amongst the economists with regards to the success of the monetary policy implemented. However the only general consensus with regards to the effectiveness of the fiscal policy is that there is no consensus. Key macroeconomic indicators Australias macroeconomic health same as the rest of the world is governed by factors of Gross Domestic Product(GDP),unemployment, price fluctuations, total nations income per year, interest rates, inflation, government spending, tax system, exchange rates, Consumer Price Index(CPI), consumer credit, foreign trades and value of currency. As oppose to Microeconomics, Macroeconomics deals with totals or aggregates. Gross Domestic Product Gross Domestic Product (GDP), is the single best measure of a nations economic wellbeing. It measures the total value of goods and services produced in a country in one single year (Liu,EC 5103 lecture notes,2009). GDP = Consumption + Investment + Government Spending + Net export. There are three approaches to calculating GDP Expenditure approach calculates the final spending on goods and services. Product approach calculates the market value of goods and services. Income approach sums the income received by all producers in the country. Problems with using GDP alone as a measure of economic wellbeing is that by itself, GDP does not give any information on income distribution in the country nor takes into account the effect of negative externalities on economic growth such as pollution or the effect of positive externalities such as health and education( Trading Economist, n.d). Taxes and interest rates influence GDP over time. Non economical factors influencing GDP include war, drought, natural and man made disasters. Figure 1. Australia GDP growth rate- Period 2006-2010 Source: http://www.tradingeconomics.com/Economics/GDPGrowth.aspx?Symbol=AUD#ixzz0i0dpV4ucConf_2009.htm Consumer Price Index The best price index measure is the Consumer Price Index (CPI). CPI is used to calculate the inflation rate and is also a measure of the change in cost of living over time. Business Cycle Fluctuations in economic activity over a period of time are reflected in the business cycle. Figure 2: Business Cycle Different stages of economy over a period of time Source: http://www.thebluecollarinvestor.com/blog/wpcontent/uploads/2008/11/business-cycle-graph-better.jpg The growth rate of Real Gross Domestic Product is used for measuring the fluctuations in the business cycle. Economists argue that higher interest rates can motivate the households for savings, and supply more loanable funds in the market, in form of bank deposits. Increased savings results in reducing foreign dependence which in turn accelerates economic growth due to higher investments. McKinnon (1973) and Shaw (1973) cited in Shrestha, M. B., Chowdhury, K. 2005, further assert that higher real interest rate also helps channel the capital to the most efficient industries and help development and technological advancement leading to economic growth. The aforementioned reiterates the fact that both fiscal and monetary policies are used to smooth out the business cycle. Commodity Prices and Trade One of the key contributors to Australias economic condition is the international economic activities in particular the commodity prices which is reflected in the Terms of Trade i.e. ratio of exports to imports prices (White, 1994). Since Australias export of commodities is large and the import is relatively stable, the world economy trades more with Australia hence strong Term of Trade is one of the key reasons for an increase in standard of living in Australia. The recent rise in global commodity prices due to increase demand in China and a drop in the price of imports mainly from China has allowed Australia to achieve a higher Term of Trade above its average. In 2005 Australia entered into an agreement with the US on Free Trade (Australian US free Trade Agreement- AUSFTA). Other countries that have FTA with Australia include New Zealand, Singapore, China, Japan, Malaysia and South Korea (Travel Document System, n.d). Farm output Farm output also appears to be a key determinant of the economic activity of Australia. This is influenced by factors such as drought. For instance, the major drought of 1980s was one of the key contributors to the disparities between the growth in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries and Australia (White, 1994). Government spending Government spending in infrastructure such as water, transport, telecommunication, education and health are aimed to expand Australias supply capacity such as plans to improve irrigation infrastructure and buy back unused water allocation along the Murray-Darling river. Environment: climate change Climate change must also be mentioned in this context. A report commissioned by the former Howard government recommended a domestic carbon emission scheme emphasizing that Australia should have an active role in developing a global carbon emissions trading scheme. The Rudd government aims to introduce a carbon trading system by 2011 and reduce emissions by 5% by 2020 (from 2000 levels). Interest Rates Interest rate is defined as the percentage rate per annum that a borrower pays to the lender or the cash rate which is the rate charged on overnight loans between the financial intermediaries. Interest rate has a negative effect on the money demand as shown below. Australia is a price-taker in global capital markets, so the Australian interest rates move with the global financial market trends. Interest rates are generally higher in Australia and New Zealand compared to the international standards largely due to strong fiscal policies relative to other developed countries (Kirchner, 2007, p. 11-15). In Australia, the Reserve Bank (RBA) determines the interest rate. It does so by changing the amount of money supplied, in other words by altering the equilibrium quantity of money supplied and money demanded. Australias interest rate is currently at 4.0 percent according to the data published by the Trading Economics in March 2010. Table 1. As at 31.03.2010, Australia has the highest interest rate amongst developed countries. The Reserve Bank of Australia 4% Bank of Canada 0.25% Bank of England 0.5% Bank of Japan 0.1% European Central Bank 1% Federal Reserve 0.25% Swiss National Bank 0.25% Source: http://www.fxstreet.com/fundamental/interest-rates-table/ Figure 3. A graphical demonstration of the effect of change in money supply on the interest rate. Source: Source: (Liu, EC 5103 supplementary notes, 2009) Figure 4. Australias Interest Rate- Period 2000-2010 Source: http://www.tradingeconomics.com/Economics/Unemploymentrate.aspx?Symbol=AUD#ixzz0i0ejiErm Unemployment rate Unemployment rate refers to the % labour force that are unemployed and actively pursuing a job. The unemployment rate is negatively related to the real GDP i.e. falling GDP results in an increase in unemployment and vice versa. As at January 2010 based on data published by Trading Economics the unemployment rate is 5.30 percent. Figure 5. Australia unemployment rate Source: http://www.tradingeconomics.com/Economics/Unemploymentrate.aspx?Symbol=AUD#ixzz0i0ejiErm Inflation rate Inflation rate refers to the % rate of increase in the average level of prices measured against a standard level of purchasing in the economy. According to the latest figures published by the Trading Economics the Inflation rate was 2.10 percent in December 2009. Inflation rate is best reflected in the CPI or the GDP deflator. Figure 6. Australia Inflation rate based on CPI- Period 2008-2010 Source: http://www.tradingeconomics.com/Economics/InflationCPI.aspx?Symbol=AUD#ixzz0i0eRh6VH Consumer Credit One of the major contributing factors that led to the recent Global Financial Crisis was the lack of regulation with relation to consumer credit originating in the United States. Money for institutions to borrow and lend was easily accessible which eventuated in sub-prime mortgages and what has come to be known as NINJA loans (No Income No Job or Assets). This toxic debt was then sold globally through various hedge funds. Although affected by the rest of the world through the freezing of credit markets, Australia has managed to remain in relatively stable position in comparison to the rest of the major economies. This, in part, can be attributed to the regulations enforced through the Consumer Credit Code (Appendix 1). Constant reviews and amendments of macroeconomic policy in relation to consumer credit regulation have contributed to Australias robust financial system in comparison to the majority of other developed nations  [1]  . Gold and Foreign Currency reserves The Reserve bank of Australia (RBA) has the responsibility of owning and managing the foreign currency and reserves for Australia  [2]  . On average, countries hold 10 per cent of their reserves in gold, although the proportion varies widely from one country to another. The Reserve Bank of Australia holds just 80 tones of gold, or 6 per cent of its total foreign reserves. The bank sold down its gold holdings in 1997 and its reserves are now largely held in US Treasuries and other government bonds. The reserves are used, when required, to keep the Australian dollar steady in times of volatility. (Bourlioufas,N. 2008). Several reasons exist for the reduction in gold holdings for Australia such as: Lack of income that it produces The cost of storage/security Inability to put value behind the Australian Dollar. Appendix 2 displays the RBAs current reserve holdings for 2009/2010. The amounts are displayed in Australian dollars and are subject to movement based on current exchange rates. Taxation (GST) One of the many aspects in taxation is the Goods and Services Tax (GST), which is a value added tax on the supply of goods and services in Australia. Until the introduction of the GST, Australia operated a Wholesale Sales Tax (WST), which imposed a tax on wholesale of goods. The GST was introduced to bridge the unfair tax gaps between service based businesses and suppliers of goods (GST Australia, 2009). In Australia the GST is levied at a flat 10%, which is collected from the buyer, which shifts the demand curve downward by the size of the tax, which effectively means both buyers and sellers share the burden of the tax (Mankiw, 2008). National income and output Measures of national income and output are used as an estimate of total economic activity by including Gross domestic profit, gross national product, and net national income. Each of these aspects is in relation with the total amount of goods and services within a country. The National income and output values are of importance for a variety of users such as the Reserve bank, academics, and private as well as the Australian government to allow the government to make interventions into the economy based off current and accurate information, as well. (Australia Bureau of Statistics, 2008) Macroeconomic Policies in Australia The goals of economic policy makers are: Maintaining real GDP growth constant and positive Maintaining unemployment rate low Minimising inflation The most important contributor to the economic growth is aggregate demand (effecting GDP). Both monetary and fiscal policies effect aggregate demand. How is this game being played? Should RBA consider a looser fiscal policy when determining interest rates? Or should the government consider the possibility of a rate cut when deciding on fiscal stimulus? Aggregate Demand (AD= C+I+G+NX) is effected by factors such as: Capital investment boom Rise/fall of exchange rate Consumer boom in a country that Australia has trade agreement with A boom in housing market A share price slump Unexpected cut/rise in interest rate Monetary policy Monetary Policy through the effect of the exchange rate influences the economy. Exchange rates also influence the inflation which in turn affects the trade (export and import). Exchange rates are influenced by factors such as commodity prices and interest rates. This reiterates how the determinants of macroeconomics are intertwined. Monetary policy is set by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) to influence the supply (availability) of money and credit within the economy in an effort to stimulate growth and stabilise the financial system. Monetary policy influences the interest rates through purchasing and selling of government bonds. When RBA purchases government bonds to increase liquidity, it results a lower interest rate and lower unemployment. During the periods of high inflation, RBA sells government bonds resulting in an increase in interest rates. Effects of monetary policies are: In short term, a tight monetary policy results in a decrease in the prices of Goods and Services as well as higher disposable incomes hence an increase in the households demands. In long term, household demands decrease due to reduced income and increased unemployment. Reserve Bank Act 1959 establishes the objectives of the monetary policies  [3]  . Fiscal Policy: Fiscal policy targets both consumption and capital spending. It influences economic activities through government budget. The budget is announced yearly in May stating the government Revenue (T) and Expenditure (G). By varying the amount of spending, a fiscal policy may achieve one of the following: Fiscal surplus- when G Fiscal deficit- when T Balanced budget- when T=G When government wishes to stimulate economic growth, it applies an expansionary fiscal policy through increase in government spending and tax cuts which in turn increase consumption and investment. On the contrary, if government decides to slow down the economy, it applies a contractionary fiscal policy. Global Financial Crisis and Australias Response Deteriorating housing market in the US was the trigger to the onset of GFC in the world. Banks tightened lending policies; credit became more expensive and this led to a restrained aggregate demand resulting in weakness in world economic activity. The policies of governments around the world in response to GFC were aimed to address these weaknesses. Since the onset of GFC in 2007 Australia has responded by conducting monetary and fiscal policies. Both Short term and long term implications of these policies have to be considered to determine their effectiveness Analysis of Australias Monetary Policy in response to GFC During the GFC, expansionary monetary policies were implemented in Australia in response to the contraction in aggregate demand. RBA increased liquidity through multiple purchases of government bonds resulting in a decrease in interest rate through shifting the LM curve down and IS curve left. Figure 7. Shifts in LM and IS curve reflecting on the interest rate Source: http://www.rba.gov.au/econ-compet/2009/pdf/second-prize.pdf The lower interest rate led to a decrease in cost of borrowing which resulted in lower incentive for saving and ultimately led to an increase in consumption which resulted in the aggregate demand curve to shift to the right (figure 8). Figure 8. Expansionary Monetary Policy and its effect on Aggregate Demand Source: http://www.wcc.hawaii.edu/facstaff/briggsp/Macroeconomics/Chap_34_MonetaryFiscal.pdf Analysis of Australias Fiscal Policy in response to GFC The $42 billion economic stimulus plan of Rudd government between December 2008 and February 2009was intended to stimulate aggregate demand (Treasury, 2009). The focus of this package was mostly on investment in infrastructure which was predicted to have a larger effect on the economy in long run than in short run (Australian Government, 2010). It also provided incentives to housing as well as cash bonuses to stimulate consumption in short run. The inherent weakness of such cash bonuses is where people save their bonuses instead of spending it. Figures published by ABS demonstrate that immediately after the stimulus payments were made, there was a massive hit on spending by Australians households but this slowed down after 3 months (Insider retailing, 2010). According to the latest figures published by Trading Economics on 03.03.2010 and ABS, Australias economy grew at the fastest pace in the last quarter in almost 2 years. Table 2 demonstrates some of these figures published in this report. Table2: Australias economic figures March 2010. Percent Increase/Decrease % Comparison Period GDP à ¢Ã¢â‚¬  Ã¢â‚¬Ëœ 0.9 Last Quarter Growth à ¢Ã¢â‚¬  Ã¢â‚¬Ëœ 2.7 Last Year Current Account à ¢Ã¢â‚¬  Ã¢â‚¬Ëœ 19 to $17,459 b at December 2009 September 2009 Machinery Equipment spending à ¢Ã¢â‚¬  Ã¢â‚¬Ëœ 10.9 Last Quarter Households spending à ¢Ã¢â‚¬  Ã¢â‚¬Ëœ1.8 Last Quarter Unemployment rate à ¢Ã¢â‚¬  Ã¢â‚¬Å" to 5.3 Last 11 months Australian Dollar à ¢Ã¢â‚¬  Ã¢â‚¬Ëœ against $US and  £ British 25 year high against  £ British Interest rate à ¢Ã¢â‚¬  Ã¢â‚¬Ëœ by 0.25 Source: http://www.tradingeconomics.com/Economics/GDPGrowth.aspx?Symbol=AUD#ixzz0i0diuCw6 Also http://abs.gov.au/AUSSTATS/[emailprotected]/mf/5302.0/ Economists believe that the underlying reason for Australias Economic performance is Rudds Government stimulus package as well as increase in export however the widened account deficit of 19% in December 2009 figures is mainly due to an increase in imports. One of the consequences of this is expected to be a 1.3% decrease in Australias GDP therefore the recovery period is going to be weak (Market watch, 2010). Figure 9.Effect of fiscal stimulus on real GDP (forecasts from May 2009 Budget) Source: http://www.treasury.gov.au/documents/1686/HTML/docshell.asp?URL=Australian_Business_Economists_Annual_Forecasting_Conf_2009.htm The unemployment rate has dropped by 5.3% and the number of people employed has increased by 52700. This will put more pressure on RBA to increase interest (The Australian, n.d). Figure10. Effect of fiscal stimulus on the unemployment rate (forecasts from May 2009 Budget) Source: http://www.treasury.gov.au/documents/1686/HTML/docshell.asp?URL=Australian_Business_Economists_Annual_Forecasting Treasury secretary Ken Henry warns of the adverse shocks to financial markets despite the fact that GFC seems to have passed. Further more he explains that fiscal circumstances improve as the economy strengthens. As the economy strengthens, other things being equal, there is increasing upward pressure on prices and monetary responses to that (The Australian, n.d). In his book The Great Crash of 2008, the economic advisor Ross Garnaut, warns Kevin Rudd of hard times ahead in terms of lower living standards and economic wellbeing as a result of stimulus response to GFC (The Australian, October2009). Garnauts point of view is also shared by many other economists who consider the stimulus package a dangerous revival of a discredited Keynesianism which focuses on the short term aggregate spending as the source of growth in the economy. Some point out that fiscal policies result in an interest rate rise which has a crowding out effect on the expansion due to export and import. Hence they argue the ineffectiveness of Australias fiscal policy. The supporters of Stimulus package on the other hand argue that the spending avoided further economic contraction at the right time boosting consumers and businesss confidence and hence avoiding a recession. They also argue back with regards to trade issue pointed above, in the sense that Australias trade share is 47% of GDP which is less than the 60% quoted in previous studies as a benchmark of ineffectiveness of fiscal stimulus. They therefore argue that because of the lower trade share the fiscal stimulus has been effective in Australia (The Australian, n.d). Irving Fischer, the renowned American economist contributed to the economics in many ways one of which is his theory of Inter-Temporal Choice, which describes that through time savings, interest rates and investments are related(The Australian, n.d.). His theory highlights that present economic decisions have to have the future in mind  [4]  . Discussion There has been increasing concern amongst the economists in Australia about the sustainability of the fiscal policy in particular with regards to a solution for the current government deficit of $17.459 billion (Table 1). Australia has had challenging times in maintaining a stable economic condition. The recent Global Financial Crisis (GFC) that started in 2007 imposed great pressure on the economy. Nevertheless implementation of the fiscal and monetary policies achieved a better than expected performance by the economy (Budget, 2009-10), with forecasts of stronger growth and lower unemployment. Rudds Stimulus package through its fiscal expansionary characteristics seems to have been an appropriate response to the GFC in stabilizing the output levels however there is great concerns regarding the future of the economy. Did our politicians throw in a Keynesian based fiscal stimulus package without consideration of future consequences of it? Was there any vote buying elements incorporated in the design of it? There is a general consensus amongst the economists on the effectiveness of lowering interest rates as a monetary response to GFC by RBA which was also assisted by a depreciated exchange rate. On the other hand the fiscal policy has generated a lot of debate amongst the economists with no consensus on its effectiveness in sight. This is mainly due to the long lasting effect of the fiscal stimulus as oppose to short term, temporary and more reversible effect of the monetary stimulus. Kevin Rudds Fiscal stimulation concentrated on aggregate spending in short term to boost economic growth as per the Keynesian model. This has been proven to be the case in Australia however the unproductiveness of this large scale spending and the deficit resulting from it is far from a perfect economic condition. Does Kevin Rudd share the thought with John Maynard Keynes of in the long run we are all dead? If so are we, the Australian people supposed to suffer the consequences of his 17 billion dollars debt through our taxes, higher interest rates and higher inflation? If Irving Fisher was alive and if he was with Kevin Rudd when he was signing on the stimulus package, perhaps he would have reminded the prime minister that although his short term fiscal stimulus policy would increase public spending, it would show no regards to achieving long term high standard of living for Australian people. The side effects of the fiscal cash out include: Increasing future taxes to pay for the debts Higher interest Likelihood of inflation (as history shows us that the easiest way out of public debt has traditionally involved money creation). So was Kevin Rudds big night out worth the next days hangover of a budget deficit that adds to public debts which would further drain the economy? Or has the government designed an appropriate fiscal rebalancing strategy that it hasnt shared with Australian public yet?

Mise en Scene in the Film Yellow Earth :: Movie Film Essays

Mise en Scene in the Film Yellow Earth The Film Yellow Earth uses its own unique style of editing within the frame to portray its aesthetic qualities, which is known as mise en scene. The scene where father is plowing the land with Gu by his side is the best example of mise en scene. This scene is important because of its possession of a unique camera angle, loose framing, and deeper hidden meaning, which contribute to the overall effect of the movie. First and foremost, this scene uses a low angle shot. In the shot the camera tilts the camera upwards while getting a whole shot of father and Gu in the frame while also getting the yellowish hills and sky in it as well. The director uses a low angle shot in order to convey the meaning of how important the land was to the people. If he would of chosen to do a high angle shot it would have denied the reader of viewing the yellowish hills in the background. Those hills are symbolic of the trapping qualities of both fates, nature and society, the core principle of the movie. It was the spectator’s figurative position that was closely tied to the views of father and Gu. Next, Yellow Earth uses editing in the movement through its use of loose framing. In the scene, the characters had full motion. The director used this full motion of father and Gu in order for the viewer to get a glimpse of the actual work that took place. This strenuous manual labor would be grueling for any man. This work showed the viewer that the family was trapped in a life chained to the fields of rural China, a fate that young Cuiqiao wished to escape. Lastly, this scene does a great job by creating a symbolic, underlying meaning of what father actually believed in.