analysis of the training requirements of disease surveillance professionals. Summarize your findings and complete the “Self-Assessment Grid”; make sure to attach the grid to your Discussion posting. Describe the training you would need, list the resources that are available to enhance your competence in this area, and explain how you would evaluate the effectiveness of the training you complete.
SAMPLE ANSWER
Summary of Findings
The UN is dedicated to the reduction of economic, health and social problems caused by communicable diseases (Lombardo & Buckeridge, 2007). To achieve this end, it has committed lots of effort to supporting Ministries of Public Health in different countries. The aim of this support is to improve their capacity to survey and monitor every communicable disease as required by the regulations of international health policies. According to them, this will strengthen alert and systems of response in case of emergencies and epidemics (Lombardo & Buckeridge, 2007).
The training
The training I need is how to facilitate proper surveillance of communicable diseases, managing information, analyzing collecting information about the diseases and writing reports and financial cooperation with the Ministry of Public Health (M’ikanatha, 2013).
Resources for Enhancing Competence in this Area
· Good communication skills-a good mastery of language
· Computers connected to information databases
· Trainers from the United Nations
· Reading materials-books and handouts
· Sponsorship by the United Nations to go to countries affected by many communicable diseases for the purpose of practically dealing with them
Evaluating the effectiveness of the training
I would evaluate the effectiveness of the training basing on my ability to collect and analyze information about communicable diseases, make follow-ups to the information: attend to the victims of the diseases. My ability to write reports about the diseases will also help determine the extent of the training’s success. In other words, if I will be able to get the information from my sources and act on them for the benefit of the victims, I will consider the training effective. On the other hand, if I cannot do that by the end of the training, then the training failed.
For this project you are to conduct an Experiment. You will need to provide a detailed description
of your project, highlighting how the data were obtained, the variables used (including units), and
your objective. Your project needs to be typed and plots can be made using any software of your
choice. Only one project (with each member’s name) per group needs to be submitted. After
providing the description, please answer in detail the four questions below. Your project should
include all the observations used.
1. (25%) State your experiment’s objective in terms of the Null and Alternative Hypotheses.
2. (25%) Test your Null hypothesis at the 5% level of significance. Make sure to check that all the
conditions/assumptions have been met.
3. (25%) Construct a 90% confidence interval for the parameter of your null hypothesis.
4. (25%) What is the probability that you observe a value of 0 that is 1 standard deviation greater
than your estimated value (based on your sample) of the parameter.
SAMPLE ANSWER
Statistics project
Introduction
Following the recent trend on the global systolic blood pressure, it became imperative to conduct an experiment with an aim of identifying the factors that cause blood pressure. As a result, an experiment was conducted to identify whether age in years and weight in pounds are significant predictors of an individual’s systolic blood pressure. It is notable that it was important to use data collected from secondary sources because of the difficulties involved in collecting data for some variables. Simply put, it is difficult to collect data on the systolic blood pressure (manually) of individuals because of the instruments used in measuring the same variable. It is undeniable that only professionals in the health and medical industry have the capacity to collect data on systolic blood pressure. It follows that data used for the upcoming analysis was retrieved from (http://college.cengage.com, n.p). This paper uses multiple regression analysis to identify whether age in years and weights in pounds are significant predictors of an individual’s systolic blood pressure.
State your experiment’s objective in terms of the Null and Alternative Hypotheses
In order to complete the experiment successfully, the null and alternative hypotheses were used. In simple terms:
H0: Age in Years and weight in pounds are not significant predictors of systolic blood pressure.
Against
H1: Age in Years and weight in pounds are significant predictors of systolic blood pressure.
Test your Null hypothesis at the 5% level of significance. Make sure to check that all the
conditions/assumptions have been met.
It is crucial to point out that the following assumptions were made.
Assumption 1: for i=1, 2…N. this assumption could be understood as the expectation
for the error terms or deviations is assumed to be zero.
Assumption 2: for i=1, 2…N. That is, the variance of the error terms is constant.
This assumption is termed as homoscedasticity, or homogeneity of variances.
Assumption 3: . This could be explained as the error terms have a normal distribution with mean zero and variance.
Assumption 4: There is a linear relationship between the independent variable and the
independent variables.
The following graphs were used to check for the assumptions made in the analysis.
Assumption 1 and 2
It can be seen that the number of observations are balanced in both graphs i.e. the number of observations above and below tend to balance. This implies that taking the average of the error terms will almost be equal to zero (Montgomery, 78). It is also evident the distance from the line Zero does not have any outliers in both graphs. This is an indication that the data has a constant variance.
Assumption 3
The normal probibility plot above clearly indicates that both age in years and weight in pounds follows a normal distribution (Montgomery, 78). Thus the third assumption is fullfilled.
Assumption 4
The plots indicate that both age in years and the weight in pounds have a linear relationship with systolic blood pressure (Montgomery, 79). This is highlighted by the reality that the observations fit on a straight line.
Construct a 90% confidence interval for the parameter of your null hypothesis.
The null hypothesis for the 90 percent confidence interval is that the y intercept minus the coefficient for age minus the coefficient for weight is equal to zero at α=0.10. The following output was obtained after running a multiple linear regression on age and weight on the systolic blood pressure.
Regression Statistics
Multiple R
0.988356
R Square
0.976847
Adjusted R Square
0.971059
Standard Error
2.318211
Observations
11
ANOVA
df
SS
MS
F
Significance F
Regression
2
1813.916
906.9581
168.7646
2.87357E-07
Residual
8
42.99282
5.374103
Total
10
1856.909
Coefficients
Standard Error
t Stat
P-value
Lower 90.0%
Upper 90.0%
Intercept
30.9941
11.9438
2.5950
0.0319
8.7841
53.2041
Age in Years
0.8614
0.2482
3.4702
0.0084
0.3998
1.3230
Weight in Pounds
0.3349
0.1307
2.5627
0.0335
0.0919
0.5778
What is the probability that you observe a value of zero that is one standard deviation greater than your estimated value (based on your sample) of the parameter.
From the output above it is clear that the probability of observing zero for age in years is 0.0084. The probability of observing zero for the y intercept is 0.0319 and for weight in pounds is 0.0919. Considering, the level of significance of all the variables, it is evident to conclude that both age and weight are significant predictors of systolic blood pressure. This owes to the reality that both variables have p values, which are less than 0.05.
In conclusion, this paper uses multiple linear regression analysis to identify whether age in years and weights in pounds are significant predictors of an individual’s systolic blood pressure. It is evident that both age and weight are significant predictors of systolic blood pressure.
Works Cited
Montgomery, Douglas C. Introduction to Linear Regression Analysis. Oxford: Wiley-Blackwell, 2011 Print.
Systolic Blood Pressure Data. (n.d). Web. 9 June 2014.
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Theologically evaluate John Calvin’s account of divine providence.
To be written at 2nd year university undergraduate student level.
SAMPLE ANSWER
A Theological Evaluation of John Calvin’s account of Divine Providence
The term providence or divine providence is a theological term that is used to refer to God’s intervention in the world and the resultant care and foresight with which his influence is manifested. Given the complex nature of the universe and human existence, this term has different closely related applications which are distinguished through the way the word is written. If the entire word is capitalized and written as ‘PROVIDENCE,’ it is used in reference to God’s ability to direct and govern the universe as well as mankind through his immense wisdom. When only the first letter is capitalized making the word appear as ‘Providence,’ what is being referred to is God’s ability to see the future and the application of this in his care for all creatures in the world (VanderMolen, 1978). One of the most important contributors to the discourse of providence is John Calvin. His contribution to the then debate on providence was mainly focused on the manner in which this theological concept is manifested in people’s day to day lives.
Calvin’s understanding of divine providence contains three major themes. The first of these is the fact that divine providence is based on a mysterious and secret plan known to God alone. This secret plan that is intertwined with divine providence is designed in such a manner that necessitates faith on the part of believers. This is because Biblical scriptures acknowledge divine providence but not in a specific way. Much of it is covered up or too complex for humans to fathom yet they are still expected to believe in it. The second theme that comes out through his account is the unique and specific nature of divine providence. This is to say that God’s will is often manifested through specific events in a person or a group of people’s life experience. While God has control over virtually everything, he still pays attention to individual occurrences. The third theme arises from Calvin’s account of divine providence is that divine providence seeks to elicit the proper human response to God’s fatherly favor. According to Calvin (2001), the concept of providence goes well beyond theory and theoretic discussions. It is in fact a very practical thing give that God continues to care for people’s needs to this day. Because of this consistent care being given by God, it is in order for believers to exhibit their acknowledgement.
According to Calvin and Calvin (2008), Divine providence first saw the light of day at creation as recorded in the book of Genesis. According to him however, God’s role as the creator is not confined to the first six days of creation. God continues in his creative role on a daily basis and this is what is manifested as divine providence. Given that God possesses immense wisdom; he saw it wise to continue with his providence as this is the only way that the world would maintain order. If the world were to be left to its own devices, chaos would ultimately be reigning supreme, a situation that would reflect negatively on the creator.
From the scriptures, Calvin highlights the fact that Divine providence is something very different from luck whether good or bad. This is because good luck or fortune as well as bad luck or fate are random in nature and their occurrence is something that is more of superstitious than faith-based. Divine providence is in fact a very deliberate phenomenon. The reason why many people are led to believe in the existence of fate or fortune is the nature of many things that God created and the manner in which God’s secret plans are manifested through them. The apparent randomness of these events will often baffle humanity into thinking that these are isolated events, while in reality, they are all instruments that the creator uses so as to bring to fulfillment all the plans he has for humanity. The fact that humans experience acts of divine providence is not at all meant to baffle them. While he dismissed the idea of fate and fortune as being rooted in Pagan practices, he concedes to the fact that the mystery that surrounds them as an element of divine providence. This therefore leads to the conclusion that a person will experience Divine Providence whether he believes in its existence or not. The perspective one takes with regard to such issues therefore has a direct bearing on the spiritual experience he or she will have. They are designed in such a manner that will lead us to recognizing the creator for who he really is. This way, people will learn to put their trust in God since he is the one ultimately in charge of their destiny.
While God has the power to design laws that are to be obeyed by the tangible and intangible aspects of human life, Calvin highlights that God’s providence does much more than that. This is to say that Divine providence is active rather than passive and this means that its manifestation is highly subjective to the different scenarios that humanity experiences on a daily basis. This is because Divine Providence is a clear reflection of God’s nature of being omnipresent, omnipotent and omniscient. The very definition of Divine providence is made possible because of a God who is ever-present, ever-powerful and also all-knowing.
Calvin’s account of Divine providence also discusses the purpose of God’s influence in today’s world. The main purpose of divine providence according to Calvin is for the purpose of redirecting human attention towards God and not on the things of this world as is the case. This is in light of the potential argument that will state that divine providence as defined here makes human responsibility obsolete. Humans should therefore bow in adoration of God’s plans which are unfathomable to them.
Another counter-argument that Calvin raises in his account is with regard to the problem of evil which is part and parcel of the human experience (Stump, 2011). From the perspective of theology, God is seen as the very manifestation of perfection. However in light of the concept of Divine Providence, it appears that God is also responsible for the Evil that exists. Calvin is quick to point out that even the Devil’s actions fall within the limits of Divine Providence. As humans we can neither condemn nor exonerate the creator since it effectively amount to us putting ourselves at a position higher than the Lord. Everything whether good or unpleasant is configured in such a manner that facilitates the fruition of the will of God
Reference
Calvin, J. (2001). Calvin’s Institutes. Westminster John Knox Press.
Calvin, J., & Calvin, J. (2008). Institutes of the Christian religion. Hendrickson Publishers.
VanderMolen, R. J. (1978). Providence as Mystery, Providence as Revelation: Puritan and Anglican Modifications of John Calvin’s Doctrine of Providence.Church History, 47(1), 27-47.
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INSTRUCTIONS ATTACHED IN FILE.
you have to come up with a topic and prepare the questions before the interview can be done
SAMPLE ANSWER
The Experience of Writing a Dissertation
Data Production and Method
Interviews are significant in getting the story or the reason behind the experiences of the respondent. As such, interviewers can manage to use interviews in pursuing in-depth information on a given topic. Interviews may be vital as follow-ups to certain participants to questionnaires such as further investigation of the respondents’ responses. In order to gain adequate information on a given topic, interviews should ensure that they use open-ended questions as opposed to closed or rigid ones (Mason, 2002). Open-ended questions are vital as they provide the respondent with a suitable platform on which he or she can give various opinions on the questions asked. Interviewers should ensure that they are articulate their problem of research clearly prior to the designing of the interview process and questions. This step is significant in ensuring that the interviewer keeps a clear focus on the purpose of each question. My interview involved one of my course-mates as the interviewee. I chose this person because being that we were doing the same course and I had selected a research topic within my course, this interviewee could be in a suitable position of providing me with relevant answers. In the process of conducting my interview, I had to follow several steps, which enabled me to perform a successful interview. The first step involved the selection of a suitable setting that had minimal distraction. This setting was significant in ensuring that the interviewee was comfortable during the interview (Nuttall, 2011). I then proceeded to explain the purpose of the interview to the interviewee followed by addressing the terms of confidentiality. In relation to this, I pointed out the parties that will have access to the answers provided by the interviewee and how such answers could be addressed. This step was vital in ensuring that the interviewee was made comfortable in responding to the questions asked without fear. In addition, I illustrated the format of the interview to the interviewee and indicated its duration. Consequently, I informed the interviewee on how I could be contacted after the interview in case it was necessary. Prior to the interview, I asked the interviewee if there was any question to be asked and asked for the permission to record the interview. As an ethical guideline, seeking the permission of the interviewee prior to the recording of the conversation was aimed at ensuring that the aspect of the interviewee’s consent was addressed (Saunders et al, 2006). As such, the recording process could not hinder the interviewee from issuing appropriate answers. The process of recording was conducted using a mobile phone, as it was convenient to use at that time.
In this study, semi-structured interview was employed. Semi-structured interviews are often conducted with an open model that allows for a focused two-way communication, which is conversational. Such interviews can be used to give and receive information between the interviewer and interviewee (Quesenberry et al, 2012). Unlike the questionnaire model, where detailed or in-depth questions are formulated ahead of the interview time, semi-structured interviews often begin with more general topics or questions. Once the topic has been identified, the relationship existing between these topic and issues like expense, availability, and effectiveness become the basis for more specific questions that do not require advance preparation. It is vital to note that in semis-structured interviews not all questions are designed and phrased before the time of interview (Silverman, 2001). As such, many of the questions are developed during the process of interview, thereby allowing the interviewer and interviewee the flexibility of probing for more details or discussing issues. Semi structure interviews are always aimed at obtaining certain qualitative and quantitative information from the sample of the population to be studies. Besides, such interviews are focused on obtaining general information that is relevant to certain issues under study. Consequently, semi-structured interviews are significant in ensuring that the researcher obtains a series of insight on certain issues. Semi-structured interviews are less intrusive to individuals being interviewed as they encourage two-way communication. Semi-structured interview allows for the interviewees to ask questions of interviewers. As such, this form of interview can be employed as an extension tool. Furthermore, semi-structured interviews serve to confirm what is known apart from providing an opportunity for learning. In many cases, the information obtained from semi-structure interviews provide answers and reasons for such answers. As such, these interviews provide a suitable platform on which an in-depth understanding of the issue under investigation can be achieved. When people are interviewed using such form of interviews, they often find it easy to discuss or deliberate on sensitive issues. It is significant to note that interviewing outsiders using semi-structured interviews is often appropriate as such respondents are considered objective. In the use of this tool, the first step involved the designing of the interview model in which the questions to be asked were included. This step was followed by the establishment of the sample size in which one respondent was selected. The selected respondent happened to be my course-mate. The interview was then conducted followed by the recording of the responses obtained from the interviewee.
The data obtained from the interview was then analyzed qualitatively. Qualitative data analysis aims at uncovering or creating an understanding of the big picture by using the data to illustrate the phenomenon and what this implies (Silverman, 2001). Just like in the case of quantitative analysis, qualitative analysis involves coding and labeling of all the gathered data so that differences and similarities can be identified. In relation to this, responses from unstructured qualitative interviews as in the case of the data obtained from this study can be entered into the computer and processed. Since qualitative researcher lacks a pre-coding system, a mechanism of labeling and identifying or coding data should be developed. Such a mechanism is known as content analysis. Content analysis involves the categorization of behavioral or verbal data for the purpose of research. This process takes into consideration the aspect of coding and grouping data, also known as categorizing and indexing. The principle objective of content analysis is to create sense out of the gathered data and highlight the significant messages, findings and features. In relation to this, the data obtained from the study was analyzed using two methods that included the latent level and basic level. In the latent level, data was analyzed in relation to the responses obtained and what was implied or inferred by the interviewee. On the other side, basic level evaluation involved the descriptive or illustrative account of the gathered data. It focused on the analysis of what was said by the interviewee but not supported by theory.
Transcription
Interviewer: Hello, how are you doing?
Interviewee: I am doing fine, what about you?
Interviewer: I am doing fine too. I would like to interview you on the effectiveness of integrated marketing communication in organizations. Before we start I would like to ask if you are comfortable with the interview.
Interviewee: no problem, I am fine with it. We can proceed.
Interviewer: Okay, first I want to let you know that the information that you will give will be kept private and confidential. Besides, in the process of conducting this interview, your name will remain concealed from any third party. The only person that will have access to the information provided will be me. However, my supervisor can have access to the data that you have provided but your name will be kept confidential so you will not be identified by anybody. So you do not have to worry about the issue of privacy. Is that okay with you?
Interviewee: Yes, I am okay with that. I think we should begin
Interviewer: Well, prior to that, do I have your permission to record the conversation that we will have?
Interviewee: Sure, you are free to do that
Interviewer: Well, what do you know about integrated marketing communication?
Interviewee: Yes, this is a marketing strategy that incorporates other elements of marketing such as direct marketing, advertising, public relations, advertising and sales promotion into a single marketing plan.
Interviewer: how effective is this marketing strategy?
Interviewee: it enables various elements of marketing to be brought together, which is vital in ensuring that the brand message is sent to buyers in an effective manner.
Interviewer: What can you say about the cost of this marketing strategy?
Interviewee: it is cheaper than other strategies as it involves all marketing promotion methods being conducted jointly at the same time. Conducting each of these promotions separately is expensive as opposed to conducting them jointly.
Interviewer: What can you say about the reliability of this marketing strategy?
Interviewee: it is reliable as various capabilities of different promotion methods are exploited. As such, organizations must benefit from the impact of any of those methods.
Interviewer: How can companies enhance the effectiveness of this strategy?
Interviewee: Firms should channel adequate resource into this marketing strategy and conduct proper trainings to the promotional teams.
Interviewer: What are some of the weaknesses of this marketing strategy?
Interviewee: It demands many resources and time in its planning and execution. It is also complex and requires high technical skills for the realization of its benefit.
Interviewer: What can you say about the efficacy of this marketing strategy?
Interviewee: it is efficient as it provides a suitable platform on which organizations can exploit the potentials of different promotional elements at short time and reduced cost
Interviewer: Can you mention some of the marketing strategies that can be used as substitutes to this one?
Interviewee: No, I do not see any marketing strategy that can be employed as a substitute to this marketing strategy as it integrates several promotional elements, which is not the case in other marketing strategies
Interviewer: How can firms adopt this marketing strategy and benefit from it?
Interviewee: Organizations that are not using this marketing strategy need to restructure their marketing plans so as to provide room for this marketing strategy. Besides, once the firms have adopted this approach, they need to conduct frequent reviews on this marketing strategy in order to determine areas of weaknesses. Necessary measures such as investment of adequate resources into such areas should be adopted.
Reflection on Research Process and Findings
Without appropriate research consumer group would be unable to take firms to courts, advise the public on the best products to purchase or call for legislation changes in a credible manner. Besides, without effective research solutions to many issues that are significant in human lives could not have been established (Callegaro, 2013. As such, effective research should take into consideration four stages that include preparation, selection of the research method, collection of information and data, and evaluation of the research findings alongside putting them into good use.
In the preparation stage, the researcher should focus on conducting a preparatory study. Once the problem of study has been identified, the researcher should embark on organizing suitable means and mechanisms of executing the research (Bryman & Bell, 2007). In case the researcher lacks adequate knowledge on the area of study, he or she should focus on conducting a further research on the selected topic. This goal can be accomplished by means of consulting experts in the chosen field or going to libraries for books that focus on the subject, issue, or topic to be investigated. At this stage, the researcher should ensure that he or she makes crucial decisions on issues such as the study’s objectives, scope of the study, research methods to be employed in the study, timetable for the research activities and costs involved in the execution of the research. It is vital to note that the implementation and preparations for the research should be linked strongly to the purpose of the study (Weijters, 2012). I remember incorporating most of these approaches in the early stage of my preparation for the study. The first step that I undertook prior to commencing the study was conducting an in-depth research on the research topic that I had selected. I read various books and scholarly articles that addressed the research topic so as to have adequate knowledge on the study I was to undertake. At this stage, I focused on addressing the scope of my research and the resources that I could need during the process of its execution or implementation. I also prepared a timetable that could provide a guideline for the execution of the various operations involved in the research. Besides, I read about the suitable methods that can be employed in executing a successful interview, as my study had to involve an interview. This undertaking was significant in ensuring that my interview was a success. I managed to select a suitable site for the interview alongside following other guidelines that are necessary for the execution of a successful interview. As a result, the interviewee managed to corporate effectively during the interviewing process, which enabled me to obtain adequate information on the topic of study. The effective corporation on the part of the interviewee resulted from the fact that he was assured of the privacy or confidentiality of the information that he had to provide. Thus, the interviewee answered the questions asked without fear or bias.
In the second stage of a successful research process, the researcher should focus on selecting the appropriate research methods that can be employed in executing the study. In order to ensure that the data gathered are significant or meaningful for the objectives of the study, the researcher should decide on the appropriate method of conducting the study (Eriksson & Kovalainen, 2008). My study was not complex in relation to the selection of the sample population as I had to select only one respondent that happened to my course-mate. In selecting this respondent, I had to inquire from some of friends about somebody who could participate effectively in an interview. As a result, one of my friends referred me to the respondent that I had selected. In addition, my research employed a semi-structured interview as a method of data collection. I selected this method as it associated with several benefits. The use of the semi-structured interview enabled me to develop flexibility in probing for extra details on the topic of study from the respondent. It also helped me in obtaining specific qualitative data on the issue under study, and general information that was relevant to the issue that was under investigation. Furthermore, the use of this form of interview enabled me to obtain a sequence of insight on certain matters that related to the topic of study (Gummesson, 1991). Taking into consideration the fact that semi-structured interviews are less intrusive to persons being interviewed, this form of interview ensured that there was a two-way communication between the interviewee and I. As a result, the interviewee was also put an advantage of asking me questions on the areas that were not clear. Moreover, my research was an explanatory one as opposed to being a correlative research. A correlative research aims at establishing whether there is a correlation or link between two or more variables in the research. On the other hand, an explanatory research seeks to establish why a given a variable causes the impacts or effects highlighted alongside measuring this variable against others.
The third stage of a successful research process involves the collection of the data. Methods that researchers use in the collection of data are determined by the relations and variables of the research (Denzin & Lincoln, 2005). Data types are categorized into two groups that include secondary data and primary data. Primary data is gathered and targeted specifically for the project of the research. On the other side, primary data takes into consideration extra data that is gathered for other reason but with some application in the study. In addition, data collection can be grouped into various forms such as cross-sectional research, longitudinal research, non-participant observation, participant observation and oral among others. Cross-sectional research occurs when data is gathered simultaneously with the happening of events of the study, and thus is relatively easy to gather or collect. Longitudinal research is the collection of data over time to enable researchers to prove that there is a predictable end. Non-participant observation occurs when the researcher is involved in the recording of actions, behaviors, and events as an outsider. Participant observation occurs when the researcher conceals the real reason of his or her presence as a participant (Marschan-Piekarit & Welch, 2005). An example of this form of data collection is mystery shopping. Oral data collection method is often conducted using personal interviews and group discussions, and is mostly employed in the gathering of qualitative data as in the case of my research. In relation to this, my study employed the oral method of data collection in gathering information from the respondent. During the data collection process, the oral communication between the interviewee and I was recorded using a mobile phone for further analysis and safe storage of data. I also remember obtaining some information that I had forgotten from the recorded version of the interview. As such, recording of data plays a significant role in ensuring that all the relevant data is gathered and stored safely. The last stage of a successful research involves data analysis.
My research focused on the investigation of the use of integrated marketing communication in organizations. As such, the findings of the research focused on the areas of cost, efficacy, reliability, alternatives, effectiveness, and weakness of the integrated marketing communication approach. In relation to the findings of the study, integrated marketing communication strategy was noted to be efficient and cost-effective as it incorporates various promotional elements such as advertising, personal selling, and public relations among others. As such, marketers can manage to execute different marketing activities within a single marketing concept at the shortest time possible (Chen, 2011). Consequently, this marketing strategy was noted to be reliable as organizations could benefit from certain promotional elements in case of failure of others. Some of the disadvantages that were associated with this marketing approach were high levels of skills and resources that are required for its successful implementation (Spiller, 2013). In addition, the study identified that integrated marketing communication approach lacked suitable alternatives as it incorporates several strategies that are working towards a common marketing objective.
Reference List
Bryman A & Bell E (2007) Business Research Methods 2nd Edition Oxford University Press
Callegaro, K., M. (2013).” From Mixed Mode to Multiple Devices,” International Journal of Market Research, 55(2), pp317-320.
Chen, W., (2011). “Integrated Marketing Communications and New Product Performance in International Markets,” Journal of Global Marketing, 24(5) 397-416
Denzin N & Lincoln Y (2005) The SAGE handbook of Qualitative Research London: Sage
Eriksson, P & Kovalainen, A (2008) Qualitative Methods in Business Research London, Sage
Gummesson E (1991) Qualitative Methods in Management Research London: Sage.
Marschan,-Piekarit, R & Welch, C, (2005) Handbook of Qualitative Research Methods for International Business London: Edward Elgar.
Mason, J. (2002) Qualitative Researching. London: Sage
Nuttall, P., (2011). “Mapping the Unarticulated Potential of Qualitative Research.” Journal of Advertising Research, 51(1), pp. 153-163.
Quesenberry et al.,(2012). IMC and The Effies: Use of Integrated Marketing Communications Touch-Points Among the Effie Award Winners. International Journal of Integrated Marketing Communication, 4(2) 60-72
Saunders, M et al (2006) Research Methods for Business Students London: Financial Times/Prentice Hall
Spiller, D., (2013). Using Metrics to Drive Integrated Marketing Communication On Decisions: HI-Ho Silver. Journal of Integrated Marketing Communication, 5(1) 24-38
Weijters, T.,B. (2012). Miss-response to Reversed and Negated Items in Surveys: A Review. Journal of Marketing Research, 49(5), pp737-747.
Cross cultural communication, according to Clarke et al. (2001), implies the interaction between people of varied ethnic, cultural, gender, racial, religious and sexual orientation, age, and backgrounds of class. This communication entails a process of negotiating, mediating and exchanging the varied cultural differences between the persons involved through space relationships, verbal and non-verbal cues and language in general. The prerequisite to its success relies on the readiness and willingness of the people to stay open to an experience involving various cultures.
Before getting to really understand the essence of this theme, there is need to get a clear understanding of the two terms: culture and communication. Culture may be defined as the shared behaviours, values, attitudes and communication techniques that are passed within a community from one generation to the next (Thompson, 2011). It is a very complicated subject that encompasses a several aspects of day to day life from music, philosophy, art, customs amongst others. Communication, on the other hand implies a context-bound and goal-directed the exchange of ideas or meaning amongst a group or just two people: it occurs for a specified reason between people, in a certain environment and by a specified medium (Sandberg, 2005).
The context in which the communication between people takes place may imply the same culture or different cultures. In a work context, the talk on cross-culture usually involves cultural discussions with regards to such issues as the belief systems of a group, their values and day to day behaviour (Weber et al., 2011). For instance, in a case whereby a Japanese and an American are negotiating a business deal, it is very obvious that the negotiation is across different cultures, and as such, the communication is culture-bound. In communication, there is the expression of the uniqueness of the cultural heritage of a person: it not only includes non-verbal and verbal peculiarities, but also the context and medium of communication.
Such a communication is usually very challenging as one’s cultures provides one with varied ways of hearing, interpreting, thinking and seeing the world, and as such, the same word would inevitably imply very different meanings to people from varied cultures, even in a case where the language is the same. The problem even worsens where there is the use of different languages as translation is needed, whish, more often than not, leads to a very tremendous misinterpretation, thus, misunderstanding.
As outlined by Stella Ting-Toomey, there are three main ways by which culture gets to interfere with the effective understanding in a cross-cultural context. She calls the very first one ‘cognitive constraints’, which are the settings for references or perceptions which provide a backdrop upon which all the new information is inserted or compared to. The second are the ‘behaviour constraints’, which she argues that is very distinct upon cultures as each has a set of rules governing a proper behaviour that impact both the verbal and non-verbal communication (Cultural Barriers to Effective Communication). Whether a person looks at the other right in the eye, hits the nail on the head or beats about the bush, hoe close people stand when conversing, the facial expressions, as well as the gestures-all are rules governing politeness, and are very varied across cultures. The third and the last of Toomey’s factor is the ‘emotional constraints’, whereby she asserts that the emotional display is very varied across cultures. In some cultures, in the discussion of an issue, there is usually too much emotions involved and people yell, cry, exhibit anger, frustration and fears openly, whereas the other tend to keep emotions hidden and only sharing the factual or rational aspect of the involved situation. All the factors tend to bring about communication problems, and in case the involved people are not really aware of the problems potentials, there is more likeliness of them falling victim to them (Cultural Barriers to Effective Communication).
With regards to this, let us view the following two scenarios to assist in the complete discerning of the cross-cultural communication and the possible remedies in curbing or complete avoidance of the problems.
Scene 1. A manager on assignment in Japan
Firstly, this case involved a culture-bound communication as the manager is not of Japan origin, and between people of different hierarchical levels, since the manager is on a higher rank than the team members. The problem that arises may be described by a number of models which have been put forward to the difference in the value systems in countries. There are five key dimensions that explains the national culture (De Mooij & Hostede, 2010).
Hierarchy
According to Hofstede, this is the ‘power distance’, which explains the extent of acceptance of unequal power distribution by people within a given culture. On one side of the continuum are the cultures that have value for hierarchy, while at the other end are those that do not give too much attention to authority and can easily question it. The case above displays a culture that values hierarchy (Hofstede, 1996). Due to this, the team members are so glued to culture that they feel a very open brainstorming session like the case is not acceptable. The team members therefore feel it unethical to openly talk to a person in authority. Instead, they feel that the manager should just pass the laws, which they then follow.
Individualism
This dimension describes the degree to which people value self-determination. In a culture characterized by individualism, a lot of value is placed in personal success and the need to only look after personal self (Sandberg, 2005). The other case is collectivism, whereby people tend to place group loyalty at the forefront as well as serving the group interest. This case is of individualistic society, whereby the team members believe in keeping to themselves and not exchanging ideas.
The use of language
This encompasses the use of vocabulary that at some point may lead to too much confusion. This comes in the form of pronunciation, use of idioms and slang (DuPraw & Axner, 2007). There is the possibility that the manager may have used some slang, which to the team members, according to their culture, was not acceptable. The choice of words may also be very critical in the language. In the case above, the manager may have started off in a very hit on the head approach, whereby he pinpointed out directly the mistakes and the weaknesses of the team members. This may have turned off the team members as they may have recognized this as being too rude.
Scene 2. The banning of the U.S. TV airing in China
Firstly, this case uses two dragons and a Fung Fu master as being annihilated, which is very ironical as they stand out as very significant figures in China. Obviously, the citizens of China were bound to perceive this as a mockery of their culture, which would eventuate animosity and hatred towards the programme.
Possible remedies in the two cases
The following key principles may be used in curbing the problems that arise in the two cases.
Avoid making assumptions
It is very important that assumptions are not made about an individual in terms of their values and beliefs, and instead, there is the need to get to know a people very well in case you are to deal with them (Swann et al, 2009). This involves finding the precise information. Stereotypes influence our behaviours, however, we should never let them do it to an extent of tampering our habits. In the first case, the manager may have assumed the team members as collectivists. At the same time, the team members may themselves have had opinion of the manager, no wander the non-cooperativeness.
Check out if unsure
The manager may have been not very aware of the customs in the firm. In this case, there was the need for him to check out (DuPraw & Axner, 2007). At the same time, the U.S. TV should have checked out properly to understand the values that are placed on the Kung Fu master and the dragons in the customs of China.
Share information
This principle is very vital for an effective cross-cultural communication as it gets people involved very aware of the other’s culture and values. In a system, there is the need to be willing to openly share information about your culture in order to avoid any future misunderstanding (Swann et al, 2009). In the case of the manager, there was the need for him to provide a session for sharing on the team members’ cultures before settling down in the brainstorming. The second scenario also require the same as this could have avoided the clash that occurred which led to the ban.
References
Cultural Barriers to Effective Communication (2014). Retrieved from: http://www.colorado.edu. [Accessed on 5th May, 2014]
De Mooij M, Hostede G (2010). The Hofstede Model – Applications to Global Branding and Advertising Strategy and Research. Int. J. Advert., 29(1): 85-110.)
Hofstede G (1996). Cultures and organizations; software of the mind. Intercultural co-operation and its importance for survival. McGraw-Hill (Revised edition).
M.E. DuPraw & M. Axner. (2007). Working on Common Cross-cultural Communication Challenges, 2007.
Sandberg, J. (2005). Monitoring of Workers Is Boss’s Right but Why Not Include Top Brass? The Wall Street Journal, p. 1.
Swann, William B., Jr., Ángel Gómez, D. Conor Seyle, J. Francisco Morales, and Carmen Huici, (2009). “Identity Fusion: The Interplay of Personal and Social Identities in Extreme Group Behavior,” Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, Vol. 96, No. 5, 2009, pp. 995–1011.
Thompson LL (2011). The Mind and Heart of the Negotiator (5th Ed.). New Jersey: Prentice Hall.
Weber Y, Belkin T, Tarba SY (2011). Negotiation, Cultural Differences, and Planning in Mergers and Acquisitions. J. Transnatl. Manag., 16(2): 107-115.
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Cross cultural communication, according to Clarke et al. (2001), implies the interaction between people of varied ethnic, cultural, gender, racial, religious and sexual orientation, age, and backgrounds of class. This communication entails a process of negotiating, mediating and exchanging the varied cultural differences between the persons involved through space relationships, verbal and non-verbal cues and language in general. The prerequisite to its success relies on the readiness and willingness of the people to stay open to an experience involving various cultures.
Before getting to really understand the essence of this theme, there is need to get a clear understanding of the two terms: culture and communication. Culture may be defined as the shared behaviours, values, attitudes and communication techniques that are passed within a community from one generation to the next (Thompson, 2011). It is a very complicated subject that encompasses a several aspects of day to day life from music, philosophy, art, customs amongst others. Communication, on the other hand implies a context-bound and goal-directed the exchange of ideas or meaning amongst a group or just two people: it occurs for a specified reason between people, in a certain environment and by a specified medium (Sandberg, 2005).
The context in which the communication between people takes place may imply the same culture or different cultures. In a work context, the talk on cross-culture usually involves cultural discussions with regards to such issues as the belief systems of a group, their values and day to day behaviour (Weber et al., 2011). For instance, in a case whereby a Japanese and an American are negotiating a business deal, it is very obvious that the negotiation is across different cultures, and as such, the communication is culture-bound. In communication, there is the expression of the uniqueness of the cultural heritage of a person: it not only includes non-verbal and verbal peculiarities, but also the context and medium of communication.
Such a communication is usually very challenging as one’s cultures provides one with varied ways of hearing, interpreting, thinking and seeing the world, and as such, the same word would inevitably imply very different meanings to people from varied cultures, even in a case where the language is the same. The problem even worsens where there is the use of different languages as translation is needed, which, more often than not, leads to a very tremendous misinterpretation, thus, misunderstanding.
As outlined by Stella Ting-Toomey, there are three main ways by which culture gets to interfere with the effective understanding in a cross-cultural context. She calls the very first one ‘cognitive constraints’, which are the settings for references or perceptions which provide a backdrop upon which all the new information is inserted or compared to. The second are the ‘behaviour constraints’, which she argues that is very distinct upon cultures as each has a set of rules governing a proper behaviour that impact both the verbal and non-verbal communication (Cultural Barriers to Effective Communication). Whether a person looks at the other right in the eye, hits the nail on the head or beats about the bush, hoe close people stand when conversing, the facial expressions, as well as the gestures-all are rules governing politeness, and are very varied across cultures. The third and the last of Toomey’s factor is the ‘emotional constraints’, whereby she asserts that the emotional display is very varied across cultures. In some cultures, in the discussion of an issue, there is usually too much emotions involved and people yell, cry, exhibit anger, frustration and fears openly, whereas the other tend to keep emotions hidden and only sharing the factual or rational aspect of the involved situation. All the factors tend to bring about communication problems, and in case the involved people are not really aware of the problems potentials, there is more likeliness of them falling victim to them (Cultural Barriers to Effective Communication).
With regards to this, let us view the following two scenarios to assist in the complete discerning of the cross-cultural communication and the possible remedies in curbing or complete avoidance of the problems.
Scene 1. A manager on assignment in Japan
Firstly, this case involved a culture-bound communication as the manager is not of Japan origin, and between people of different hierarchical levels, since the manager is on a higher rank than the team members. The problem that arises may be described by a number of models which have been put forward to the difference in the value systems in countries. There are five key dimensions that explains the national culture (De Mooij & Hostede, 2010).
Hierarchy
According to Hofstede, this is the ‘power distance’, which explains the extent of acceptance of unequal power distribution by people within a given culture. On one side of the continuum are the cultures that have value for hierarchy, while at the other end are those that do not give too much attention to authority and can easily question it. The case above displays a culture that values hierarchy (Hofstede, 1996). Due to this, the team members are so glued to culture that they feel a very open brainstorming session like the case is not acceptable. The team members therefore feel it unethical to openly talk to a person in authority. Instead, they feel that the manager should just pass the laws, which they then follow.
Individualism
This dimension describes the degree to which people value self-determination. In a culture characterized by individualism, a lot of value is placed in personal success and the need to only look after personal self (Sandberg, 2005). The other case is collectivism, whereby people tend to place group loyalty at the forefront as well as serving the group interest. This case is of individualistic society, whereby the team members believe in keeping to themselves and not exchanging ideas.
The use of language
This encompasses the use of vocabulary that at some point may lead to too much confusion. This comes in the form of pronunciation, use of idioms and slang (DuPraw & Axner, 2007). There is the possibility that the manager may have used some slang, which to the team members, according to their culture, was not acceptable. The choice of words may also be very critical in the language. In the case above, the manager may have started off in a very hit on the head approach, whereby he pinpointed out directly the mistakes and the weaknesses of the team members. This may have turned off the team members as they may have recognized this as being too rude.
Scene 2. The banning of the U.S. TV airing in China
Firstly, this case uses two dragons and a Fung Fu master as being annihilated, which is very ironical as they stand out as very significant figures in China. Obviously, the citizens of China were bound to perceive this as a mockery of their culture, which would eventuate animosity and hatred towards the programme.
Possible remedies in the two cases
The following key principles may be used in curbing the problems that arise in the two cases.
Avoid making assumptions
It is very important that assumptions are not made about an individual in terms of their values and beliefs, and instead, there is the need to get to know a people very well in case you are to deal with them (Swann et al, 2009). This involves finding the precise information. Stereotypes influence our behaviours, however, we should never let them do it to an extent of tampering our habits. In the first case, the manager may have assumed the team members as collectivists. At the same time, the team members may themselves have had opinion of the manager, no wander the non-cooperativeness.
Check out if unsure
The manager may have been not very aware of the customs in the firm. In this case, there was the need for him to check out (DuPraw & Axner, 2007). At the same time, the U.S. TV should have checked out properly to understand the values that are placed on the Kung Fu master and the dragons in the customs of China.
Share information
This principle is very vital for an effective cross-cultural communication as it gets people involved very aware of the other’s culture and values. In a system, there is the need to be willing to openly share information about your culture in order to avoid any future misunderstanding (Swann et al, 2009). In the case of the manager, there was the need for him to provide a session for sharing on the team members’ cultures before settling down in the brainstorming. The second scenario also require the same as this could have avoided the clash that occurred which led to the ban.
References
Cultural Barriers to Effective Communication (2014). Retrieved from: http://www.colorado.edu. [Accessed on 5th May, 2014]
De Mooij M, Hostede G (2010). The Hofstede Model – Applications to Global Branding and Advertising Strategy and Research. Int. J. Advert., 29(1): 85-110.)
Hofstede G (1996). Cultures and organizations; software of the mind. Intercultural co-operation and its importance for survival. McGraw-Hill (Revised edition).
M.E. DuPraw & M. Axner. (2007). Working on Common Cross-cultural Communication Challenges, 2007.
Sandberg, J. (2005). Monitoring of Workers Is Boss’s Right but Why Not Include Top Brass? The Wall Street Journal, p. 1.
Swann, William B., Jr., Ángel Gómez, D. Conor Seyle, J. Francisco Morales, and Carmen Huici, (2009). “Identity Fusion: The Interplay of Personal and Social Identities in Extreme Group Behavior,” Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, Vol. 96, No. 5, 2009, pp. 995–1011.
Thompson LL (2011). The Mind and Heart of the Negotiator (5th Ed.). New Jersey: Prentice Hall.
Weber Y, Belkin T, Tarba SY (2011). Negotiation, Cultural Differences, and Planning in Mergers and Acquisitions. J. Transnatl. Manag., 16(2): 107-115.
We can write this or a similar paper for you! Simply fill the order form!
I need an essay at least with 5 paragraphs for each point and plus one introduction and one conclusion that in total be 7 paragraphs. The following is what I need to write about it:
3. You have been asked by a local community organization to give a one hour presentation on the development of the American political economy, from 1950 to the present. Outline at least 5 main points and the information you would include to explain those issues to an audience. The focus of your presentation can be any of the following: consumerism, foreign policy, production, military engagements, or views of the citizens of the United States.
Note: focus should just be on one of the followings: (consumerism, foreign policy, production, military engagements, or views of the citizens of the United States) which it should be concluded from 5 main points about that focus.
SAMPLE ANSWER
At the stop of World War II, the American military went back home to a nation rather united from the one they had left behind. Wartime production assisted lift the American economy out of the depression, and from the late 1940s, young adults witnessed outstanding increase in their spending clout. Jobs were abundant, salaries were higher, and since the lack of consumer goods at the time of the war, Americans were keen to spend. At the same time, young couples were marrying and having children at extraordinary levels. Fresh and increased federal systems comprising of the G.I. Bill of Rights, permitted many young families to buy their own homes, frequently situated in fast growing environs. After World War II, consumer spending no longer meant only fulfilling an indulgent material want. In reality, the American consumer was applauded as a patriotic citizen in the 1950s, contributing to the final success of the American means of life (Gindin & Panitch, 2012)
Americans invested in goods found around home and family life. Nowhere in the history of America has consumerism turned out to be prevalent as in the 1950s. The 50s was an age known as the Golden Age of Capitalism, a time of unexpected economic expansion that benefited both the capitalists and employees, as a consequence of higher wages (Gindin & Panitch, 2012). The economic success amounted to an expanding middle class that demanded applications and products that would facilitate them enjoy more leisure. Inventions like the refrigerator, vacuum cleaners, amid others, became household items.
The 1950s witnessed the TV grow in popularity. By the end of the 1950s, almost nine out of ten American households possessed a television set. This radically transformed American life. Individuals began utilizing the television as a basis of information. The work that one time belonged firmly to the newspapers was shifting on to other plans. America as well started utilizing TV as their preferred choice of leisure activity. In the twentieth-century, the advancements in the standards of living of the community and the resultant emergence of the middle class, extensively applies the phrase “conspicuous consumption to all citizens who owned the optional earnings that permitted them to carry out the patterns of economic consumption of goods and services. The years unfolding following World War II were collectively ones of solidity and success for Americans. The state retransformed its war equipment into a consumer culture nearly suddenly and established for 12 million returning veterans (Gindin & Panitch, 2012).
The American economy increased remarkably in the post-war time, increasing at a rate of 3.5 percent per year between 1945 and 1970. At this time of success, many earnings doubled in a generation. The considerable raise in average household earnings inside a generation amounted to millions of office and factory employees being pushed into an increasing middle class. Between 1946 and 1960, the U.S. saw an important growth in the consumption of goods and services (Gindin & Panitch, 2012). Consumption grew by 36 percent and individual consumption expenses by 42 percent. Educational outlays were as well greater than in other nations whilst a higher percent of young individuals were graduating from high school and universities than anywhere in the globe. America produced a progressively increasing demand for better cars, clothing, applications, household vacations, and higher education.
One of the aspects that drove the success of the 50s was the growth in consumer spending. Americans enjoyed a standard of existence that was unimaginable to the rest of the globe. The period was mature for Americans to transform their spending habits. The adults of the 50s had been raised in circumstances of economic deficiency, first as a result of the collective poverty of the Great Depression and then as a result of the rationing of consumer products World War II. During the 1930s, with the lack of jobs and the economy in shambles, most American citizens could merely not afford much beyond the essentials (Gindin & Panitch, 2012).
Consumerism was fueled by advertising. Spending on goods promotion increased from $6 billion yearly in 1959 to more than $13 billion by 1963. There is little skepticism over advertising fueled the buying of new goods, which as result kept the nation’s economic wheels turning. Advertisements were now being witnessed on a mass range, as a result of the amount of television that was being watched throughout the nation. In present day consumption is deflating the environmental bases. Conversely, the nation’s economic wellbeing is calculated more according to how much American’s are ready to spend, the consumer benefit, and less in how much is yielded, the gross national product, or how even we invest (Gindin & Panitch, 2012).
Consumerism these days characterises Americans and as well separates them from one another. A consumer economy functions if consumption of products offers just temporary pleasure such as happiness is infinitely deferred, so that consumers continue to purchase more and more products and services (Gindin & Panitch, 2012). By explanation, the consumer can never be fulfilled. The pursuit of this type of contentment generates a vicious circle of expanding nervousness and displeasure.
I need an essay at least with 5 paragraphs for each point and plus one introduction and one conclusion that in total be 7 paragraphs. The following is what I need to write about it:
3. You have been asked by a local community organization to give a one hour presentation on the development of the American political economy, from 1950 to the present. Outline at least 5 main points and the information you would include to explain those issues to an audience. The focus of your presentation can be any of the following: consumerism, foreign policy, production, military engagements, or views of the citizens of the United States.
Note: focus should just be on one of the followings: (consumerism, foreign policy, production, military engagements, or views of the citizens of the United States) which it should be concluded from 5 main points about that focus.
SAMPLE ANSWER
At the stop of World War II, the American military went back home to a nation rather united from the one they had left behind. Wartime production assisted lift the American economy out of the depression, and from the late 1940s, young adults witnessed outstanding increase in their spending clout. Jobs were abundant, salaries were higher, and since the lack of consumer goods at the time of the war, Americans were keen to spend. At the same time, young couples were marrying and having children at extraordinary levels. Fresh and increased federal systems comprising of the G.I. Bill of Rights, permitted many young families to buy their own homes, frequently situated in fast growing environs. After World War II, consumer spending no longer meant only fulfilling an indulgent material want. In reality, the American consumer was applauded as a patriotic citizen in the 1950s, contributing to the final success of the American means of life (Gindin & Panitch, 2012)
Americans invested in goods found around home and family life. Nowhere in the history of America has consumerism turned out to be prevalent as in the 1950s. The 50s was an age known as the Golden Age of Capitalism, a time of unexpected economic expansion that benefited both the capitalists and employees, as a consequence of higher wages (Gindin & Panitch, 2012). The economic success amounted to an expanding middle class that demanded applications and products that would facilitate them enjoy more leisure. Inventions like the refrigerator, vacuum cleaners, amid others, became household items.
The 1950s witnessed the TV grow in popularity. By the end of the 1950s, almost nine out of ten American households possessed a television set. This radically transformed American life. Individuals began utilizing the television as a basis of information. The work that one time belonged firmly to the newspapers was shifting on to other plans. America as well started utilizing TV as their preferred choice of leisure activity. In the twentieth-century, the advancements in the standards of living of the community and the resultant emergence of the middle class, extensively applies the phrase “conspicuous consumption to all citizens who owned the optional earnings that permitted them to carry out the patterns of economic consumption of goods and services. The years unfolding following World War II were collectively ones of solidity and success for Americans. The state retransformed its war equipment into a consumer culture nearly suddenly and established for 12 million returning veterans (Gindin & Panitch, 2012).
The American economy increased remarkably in the post-war time, increasing at a rate of 3.5 percent per year between 1945 and 1970. At this time of success, many earnings doubled in a generation. The considerable raise in average household earnings inside a generation amounted to millions of office and factory employees being pushed into an increasing middle class. Between 1946 and 1960, the U.S. saw an important growth in the consumption of goods and services (Gindin & Panitch, 2012). Consumption grew by 36 percent and individual consumption expenses by 42 percent. Educational outlays were as well greater than in other nations whilst a higher percent of young individuals were graduating from high school and universities than anywhere in the globe. America produced a progressively increasing demand for better cars, clothing, applications, household vacations, and higher education.
One of the aspects that drove the success of the 50s was the growth in consumer spending. Americans enjoyed a standard of existence that was unimaginable to the rest of the globe. The period was mature for Americans to transform their spending habits. The adults of the 50s had been raised in circumstances of economic deficiency, first as a result of the collective poverty of the Great Depression and then as a result of the rationing of consumer products World War II. During the 1930s, with the lack of jobs and the economy in shambles, most American citizens could merely not afford much beyond the essentials (Gindin & Panitch, 2012).
Consumerism was fueled by advertising. Spending on goods promotion increased from $6 billion yearly in 1959 to more than $13 billion by 1963. There is little skepticism over advertising fueled the buying of new goods, which as result kept the nation’s economic wheels turning. Advertisements were now being witnessed on a mass range, as a result of the amount of television that was being watched throughout the nation. In present day consumption is deflating the environmental bases. Conversely, the nation’s economic wellbeing is calculated more according to how much American’s are ready to spend, the consumer benefit, and less in how much is yielded, the gross national product, or how even we invest (Gindin & Panitch, 2012).
Consumerism these days characterises Americans and as well separates them from one another. A consumer economy functions if consumption of products offers just temporary pleasure such as happiness is infinitely deferred, so that consumers continue to purchase more and more products and services (Gindin & Panitch, 2012). By explanation, the consumer can never be fulfilled. The pursuit of this type of contentment generates a vicious circle of expanding nervousness and displeasure.
Human Dignity and the forced adoption policy in Australia in the 50?s, 60?s and 70?s.
How is the case study on forced adoption in Australia in the 50?s, 60?s and 70?s and issue of human dignity?
From the case study presented.
Explain why you believe this to be an issue where human dignity is a critical factor.
Analyse at least two perspectives on this particular case. The following questions should act as a guide in your analysis.
1. What understanding of the concept of human dignity appears to be at work in each perspective?
2. What are the social attitudes, norms, or circumstances that may have influenced each perspective? To what extent do these social attitudes, norms, or circumstances impact on the understanding of human dignity in each perspective?
3. How does each perspective justify particular actions or choices with reference to human dignity?
4. In this unit, we have considered human dignity and the human person as multidimensional. If you consider in isolation the argument of each perspective in turn, what aspects of human dignity could be jeopardised by any actions arising from those perspectives?
5. Evaluation of the implications and consequences of adopting a perspective in isolation
Perspectives are:
Perspective 1: The practice of forced adoption makes a false distinction between the capacity of young, largely unwed, mothers to raise their own children, and the capacity of married, more financially secure, mothers, to do the same. The practice of forced adoption hindered these young mothers from demonstrating their innate dignity.
Perspective 2: The shame and guilt, felt by women who found themselves pregnant out of wedlock and were forced or coerced into give up their babies, resulted in their loss of dignity. The national apology was intended to restore this lost dignity.
Perspective 3: Social mores in the 1950s, 60s and 70s deemed women in particular situations to be unfit mothers. The perceived immoral actions of unmarried pregnant women led them to be treated without dignity.
SAMPLE ANSWER
Human Dignity and Forced Adoption
Life is all about getting a life that one would be proud of and would like our future generations taking part in. Majority of people would love to get married and have a family with their spouses and enjoy the fruits of their labor, however, there are those that are not able to enjoy that luxury. There are the ladies and girls that had boyfriends that did not want to wait for marriage or take part in safe sex. These ladies are those that society has come to look down upon because they most often than not end up being ladies that have children out of wedlock. However, despite the fact that society would look down upon them, they still would love to be the proud mothers of their own children. There is the freedom in today’s society that one is given that allows them to put up their children for adoption of their own free will. But take a step back and imagine the lady that does not have the luxury of making such a choice for herself. She is forced by society to give up her child because she is not married (Quartly, Swain & Cuthbert, 2013). The act is inhumane and goes against all the threads that a mother would have on her body. It is a sign that the lady was not dignified in having a child and being called a mother because she is not married. Such was the case in Australia. The aim of this thesis is to echo the fact that the forced adoption of children that was carried out in Australia was an action of human indignity.
The idea that there was a form of distinction between a mother that was unwed and young and one that was married and more financially secure in their capacity to be good parents was a distinction that was entirely false (Marshall & McDonald, 2001). In the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s, there was the belief that a child would be better raised by parents that were married and in a family. It was a belief that emerged when majority of the children that lived in the streets were mainly from broken or single parent households. This resulted in there being a different understanding to the life that a child would have. It may be true that a parent that is more financially secure and married is able to give their children a better life than one that is unwed. However, this is just a distinction that is made based on the size of bank that the mother may have and the things that may be bought with the money, but such is not always the case (Kateb, 2011). Some parents that are well off should be able to give their children the love and care that they deserve but such is not always the case.
These parents may give their wealth to other vices that would make their children turn to other vices and works so as to get the things that they do not receive at home. Thus is the reason why girls look to relationships with older men to find love that they should receive at home (Spark & Cuthbert, 2009). Most mothers that are unwed most of the times give the best care to their children because they know the difficulties that lie in the world better than the parent that is financially secure. These mothers would be better in the care of these children but the forced adoption that was enacted between the 50s and 70s was a sign that the Australian government did not believe in this. Thus pointing to the false distinction in the care offered by unwed mothers and those that were wed and financially stable (Josephs, 2008). The distinction was one that was baseless. It as an act that hindered these ladies from proving their capability of being parents and this stripping them of their dignity.
Society believes that it is unacceptable to have a child that is out of wedlock. This has pushed the second perspective on forced abortion. The fact that society has come up with a norm that there has to be a family that will readily take care of the child when born, us something that has pushed most women that have become pregnant from premarital sex to look down upon themselves (Frame, 1999). This is a fact that has resulted in the perception that most women that become parents from premarital sex are not fit to be parents of any child and thus being coerced into giving up their children up for adoption despite the fact that they too can raise the children as their own (Swain, 2011). These words and norms that society has had engraved into their brains has led to the breaking up of prospectively peaceful and model homes for people and children. Furthermore, in claiming that single mothers could not provide for their children, the government and the people in Australia were generally but indirectly claiming that these women did not have what it takes to be parents. Thus they too last dignity for themselves as parents as well (Ford, 2013).
1950s, 1960s and 1970s were the times when life was cheapest and that the minds of people were geared towards a particular thought and were not ready to question them for being’ old school.’ The activities that were carried out during these years were those that looked down upon the people that had managed to get pregnant from the men that they had in their lives. These very thoughts that people had been brought up believing and holding dear to their hearts were the very same ones that would break these mothers. When a mother that was not married was identified by society, she was termed and labelled as an immoral person that the people would end up avoiding and looking down up as being people that were not acceptable in the society that was meant to be growing (Cuthbert & Quatly, 2012). The treatment that they were exposed to as far from dignified because the public could not dare to question the norms that they have brought up with but could only just look at the norms and judge based on what they would have seen as being regular. These actions would not only break the spirits of these mothers but as well make them to look down upon themselves and be treated without dignity. The norms are the pillars that led to the improper treatment that the women were exposed to.
In the study of the forced adoption that the mothers were being put through, a deeper understanding of the dignities that were being deprived from the women. To do so, a quadrant understanding of human dignity is employed. First there is the dignity that humans already have which is further split into two aspects: being human and the possession of one or more human capacities. Under being human the lady should be given the dignity that by being a human she has the right to still be able to give birth to a child despite the fact that she is not married or financially stable. The second is that although she has gone through with the act of having sex before she is married, she still has the capability of being a good mother. The second half of the quadrant is the fact that she has dignity that may be lost or acquired. This is further classified as being in a position whereby she has a sense of self-worth. These ladies in Australia were stripped of this dignity because the pride of being a mother was taken away from her because society did not see her fit to parent because she was pregnant before wedding. Finally is the moral or immoral aspect of the dignity quadrant. The mothers were deprived of their civic duties of ben loving mothers. It would have been better that if society looked down upon these mothers it still allowed them to raise their own children because this is what any mother would love to do.
Finally, dignity should not be viewed from one dimension but from multiple aspects. While human dignity is inherent, we are also called to realize our dignity from the way in which we lead our lives and thus the fact that dignity was being looked at from one scope, it deprived the mother of raising her child as her own ad looking at her life and the decisions that she has made and cause her to change her view of her actions, resulting in a different state of mind in future.
In conclusion, the acts of forced adoption were acts if indignity and were not things that had basis. The ladies were treated badly there is nothing that is more flimsy than an apology. These women would be better dignified if they are given information on the whereabouts of their children rather than an apology. Forced adoption was an act that should not have been in existence but the fact that it was carried out for more than 30 years, these mothers need to be treated well, despite the fact that nothing can undo the mental, psychological and maternal pain that they endured (Brugger & Kristen, 2013).
References
Brugger, W., & Kirste, S. (2013). Human dignity as a foundation of law (1st ed.). Stuttgart (Franz Steiner Verlag).
Cuthbert, D., & Quartly, M. (2012). “Forced Adoption” in the Australian Story of National Regret and Apology*. Australian Journal Of Politics & History, 58(1), 82–96.
Australian Senate should not be abolished because it is a very important role in holding the government accountable on everything and ensuring that the legislation with the Parliament is correctly examined
SAMPLE ANSWER
Should Senate be Abolished?
Australian Senate should not be abolished because it has a very important role in holding the government accountable on everything and ensuring that the legislation with the Parliament is correctly examined. The senate plays the role of a house of advice, review, and consent. Although the senate in Australia has limited control over the practice of the government, it is the one mandated to pass any legislation introduced by the government before it can become a law (Russell & Benton, 2010). Senate has to review all proposed legislation to ensure that the under-represented groups are not completely excluded from the parliament’s attention. There are instances in the past and recently when the senators from the minor parties and the independent senators have held the balance of power in the senate (Browne, 2012). By teaming up with the opposition to block passage of legislation, they are able to exert immense influence that ensures proper debate of amendments to legislation. This paper champions the thesis that the Australian senate is completely unalienable due to the mundane role it holds in the process of legislation, representation, and monitoring the excesses of the government.
As Taylor (2014) notes, the senate committee system is the centre of review activity in the Australian Federal Parliament. Committees offer in-depth scrutiny of proposed legislation. They consider evidence and information from other sources by allowing people to give testimony in person or organizations with special expertise to specific evidence. Consequently, they take a long-term view of the public issues since committee members have the time to become experts in the area of interest as well as to consider a broad array of issues. Committees provide a transparent and open way for the parliament to conduct their policy debates and the evidence is availed for the public to access (Russell & Benton, 2010).
The senator has great potential in informing the government and the parliament concerning matters of public importance by the Parliamentary Inquiries. It is widely recognized that checks and balances are a necessary prerequisite for fair running of any system of government to ensure that power is not abused. The parliament to which the ministry is responsible for its actions is one necessary where checks are required. Parliament being the law-making arm of the government entails representation of interests, beliefs, and opinions of the people (Taylor, 2014). As such, it is perceived as the foundation upon which the modern democracy is built, and it is required to ensure that the government is answerable to the people. However, in the federal parliament this is not the case. The opportunity for the House of Representatives to assume its effective role of checking on the government are significantly reduced since the coalition or parties forming the government in most cases forms the majority seats and controls the House (Lee, 2013). However, the development of the system of responsible government in Australia under which the federal government is now responsible to the House of the Representatives as well as the Senate ensures that the federal Parliament is capable of performing its role of checking on the government.
The Senate has the power to force the government to account for its practices by withholding finance from it. This can occur through rejecting the appropriation bill for the annual services of the government. The Constitution allows the Senate to fulfill this role in relation to the government by scrutinizing and judging its legislation, activities, and policies (Ghazarian, 2012). The Senate is able to check on the government through scrutinizing government administration, delegated legislation, bills, and government policy in general.
The Senate is effective in its role to check the government and ensuring it is accountable since the government unlike in the parliament case rarely possesses a Senate majority. The adoption by the federal Parliament of a system of proportion representation for the Senate elections in 1948 made it possible for parties to gain representations in proportion to the vote’s share (Ghazarian, 2012). Moreover, independents and small parties have gain substantial representation in the senate. As a result, the government has to win the support of non-government Senators before the Senate can agree on passing a government bill. Contrastingly, if the opposition wins the support of the independents and minor parties, the Senate has the ability to reject or amend government bills.
The Senate can also undertake activities which the government is not in support of such as directing a Senate committee to look investigate an activity, legislation, or policy of the government. For instance, a bill must be passed in identical terms by both the House of Representatives and the Senate being enacted to become a law. Although most bills are initiated by the government, the Senate scrutinizes all of them to ensure that they further the interest of the public. Ultimately, senate can pass a bill with amendments, pass it without amendments, or reject it. Bills are first read three times during their process of passage through the Senate. In this phase, the broad policy of the bill is put under debate. The Senate then adopts the form of a committee as a whole to examine the details of the bill. They also engage in debate with ministries and move amendments (Bach, 2008). This whole procedure offers an opportunity to ensure that all the aspects of the bill are examined in totality before the senate can vote to pass, amend, or reject it.
The senate committee system significantly enhances the ability of the senate to review bills and bills that are considered to require more and detailed examination are then referred to the appropriate Legislative Standing Committees for further inquiry (Olivier, 2012). The inquiry process concludes with a presentation of their report to the senate. The report can recommend amendments or passing of a bill without amendments. Notably, the committee on the scrutiny of bills informs the senate of any bill that could trespass on individual liberties or a failure to observe the required legislative safeguards, for instance, the right of appeal. All delegated legislation must also be tabled in the senate. To enhance the effectiveness of the senate function of oversight, the Standing Committee on Regulation and Ordinances scrutinizes all delegated legislation. It then follows up on any problems with the minister in charge while any unresolved problems may result in disallowance of the regulation by senate (Olivier, 2012). Other times that the senate plays a critical role of scrutinizing the government is during for instance, time set aside for raising matters of public importance as well as during debates of a general nature.
The senate through the Estimates Committee is able to review the operations of the agencies and government departments, which are mandated in developing and implementing the policies of the government (Tsang, 2013). For instance, they review the estimates of the annual expenditure of the government agencies and department in detail to establish if revenue is being spent efficiently and appropriately. The estimates are presented in parliament in May in appropriation bills as part of the Budget. There are six committees with each having the responsibility for a given number of departments (Bach, 2008). The Senate minister concerned and other senior department officials have to appear before the senate examining their department to explain expenditure proposals and answer questions in regard to the efficiency and effectiveness of the various programs. The estimates committees then report to the senate following completion of their inquiries.
Although the senate has been faulted for numerous reasons, the big question would be directed towards strengthening it, so that is capable of conducting its crucial duties more effectively instead of efforts to abolish the senate. For instance, mechanisms could be put in place to abolish the likelihood of governments to weaken the powers of senate as happened during the Howard government. The role and powers of the senate should also be enhanced so that it is able to inform the nation by broadening of its investigative powers. It should also be provided with resources and staffing to effectively carry out its roles.
The democratic election process and strategic political function coupled with its extensive constitutional powers have provided the senate with the foundation on the role to check on the government. Although the Senate is faced with numerous challenges and limitations as has been established in the discussion, it is still to a great extent performing its role and function as envisaged in the Constitution; of ensuring that laws are supported by the majority and are properly representative of the entire country, and ensuring that ministries are accountable of their activities and conduct to the people of Australia.
References
Bach, S. (2008). Senate Amendments and Legislative Outcomes in Australia, 1996-2007. Australian Journal Of Political Science,43(3), 395-423.
Browne, E. (2012). Reflections on Former Forced Adoption Policies and Practices: Report of the Senate Community Affairs References Committee, 2012. ISAA Review: Journal Of The Independent Scholars Association Of Australia, (2), 57.
Ghazarian, Z. (2012). The Changing Type of Minor Party Elected to Parliament: The Case of the Australian Senate from 1949 to 2010. Australian Journal of Political Science, 47(3), 441-454.
Lee, A. (2013). How Senate report changes Australia FDI. International Financial Law Review, 32(6), 61.
Olivier, E. (2012). Proroguing the Parliament of Australia: The Effects on the Senate and the Conventions That Constrain the Prerogative Power. Federal Law Review, 40(1), [69]-88.
