The Bench Essay free essay sample

I saw workers bringing in cut down trees to manufacture merchandise for millions. The routines of mankind have devastating affects on nature! As I looked upon the trees, I could see them choking on the thick fumes that came from the city. Clutter and trash suffocated their trunks as they began to weep for their kinsfolk that were taken away. The wise man reminded me that Trees give us the breath of life, without them we would not be here, we would not have fruit and there would be a missing link in the circle of lifeThen we looked to our right toward the sea and rivers. I could see how the creatures in the water were struggling to survive as their movements became a battle and soon the tide was the only element moving them around. Their numbers started to decrease as their tiny poisoned bodies began to wash up on the shore. We will write a custom essay sample on The Bench Essay or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page The seagulls innocently indulged on their toxic remains as the remainder of the fish were getting trawled by fisherman. We saw the poisoned seagulls fly away back to their nests where their pure white eggs lay.The days went by and the seagulls began to disappear. Their eggs were left unattended and unmatched. The poisoned seagulls had been eaten by the beasts. We soon came to realism that those beasts were the same that are taken to the butchers that give us the food we need on our plates. The wise man then said When the well dries, we know the worth of water ? Benjamin Franklin I realized that we will also only realism the worth of the environment when it is too late. Soon mankind will suffer the consequences of their actions.We will see major climate changes; we will witness the crying faces of our starving children and hear the groans of our neighbors as a result from our damaged environment. There will be no rich and no poor. We will gaze upon cloned disintegrating houses and only then will we think What have we done? If we exploit nature, the more our As we sat on the bench looking at the works of our fellow man we realized that we have exploited nature for too long and soon it will be too late. We sat on the bench quietly before he left me, he quoted these words MIM must be the change you wish to see in the world ?

Animal venoms Essay Example

Animal venoms Essay Example Animal venoms Essay Animal venoms Essay Mass spectrometric appraisal of bioactive peptides in European wolf spider venom Hazard Appraisals Literature Review Introduction: Animal venoms have been identified as playing a cardinal function in find and development of new drugs as they contain a big sum of unknown pharmacologically active molecules.1 Deadly animate beings subdue their quarry by utilizing their venoms which are rather complex mixtures that contain a big sum of peptide toxins.2 Some of these toxins are thought to hold pharmaceutical and insecticidal effects due to the selective and effectual manner they target receptors.2 This theory led to an addition in the figure of new toxins being identified and characterised.2 Spiders are thought to be the most successful deadly animate beings as they contain the largest figure of peptide toxins when compared to other deadly animals.2 Spider venoms are turn outing to be highly utile doing them to be â€Å"recognized as one of the most exciting beginnings of novel tools for pharmacological research and curative leads†.3 Spider venoms: There are about 39,000 known species of spiders, with even more needing charcterisation.4There are two chief groups of spiders and these are the Orthognatha ( mygalomorphs ) and the Labidognatha ( anaeomorphs ) .5 The differences in these groups are characterized by the place of the chelicerae and the motion of the Fangs. About all spiders are marauders and largely feed on insects and other arthropods.5 Larger species of spiders can besides feed on little birds, serpents, chiropterans, rats, lizards and frogs.5 Most spiders have venom secretory organs and the venoms secreted from them tend to be colorless liquids that can be dissolved in water.5 In most instances these venoms are impersonal or alkalic, but some are known to be acidic.5 Venoms from spiders are diverse as they differ between species and within the same species.5 The chief intent of a spider s venom is to enable it to disable and kill its prey.5 It besides may assist the spider digest its quarry and can move as a self-d efense tool against other predators.5 Spiders can either assail their quarry utilizing their Fangs or gaining control it by utilizing their webs, but normally either manner the quarry is killed as a consequence of the venom s effects.5 A bulk of spiders are in fact harmless to worlds but there are a few species that can do fatal bites.5 Spider venoms are thought to incorporate about several million peptides1, although merely a few spider venoms have been to the full investigated go forthing a huge figure still to be studied and identified.4 Spider venoms provide the perfect focal point for analytical probe as the scope of their constituents varies greatly in molecular weight and pharmaceutical function.6 These venoms contain active biological molecules which can aim a scope of of import normal maps in insects and mammals.5/7 Spider peptides differ well in their pharmacological activity and structure8 and a really little sum of venom can exercise a powerful biological effect.3 Spider venoms are a really complex â€Å"cocktail† of low molecular weight constituents, polypeptide toxins and proteins,9 but peptides are the chief constituents in about all spider venoms.4 The low molecular weight compounds include inorganic salts, free amino acids, biogenic aminoalkanes, enzymes, neurotransmitters and nucleic acids.5/9 These toxins are known to aim a scope of receptors.3 Classs and maps of spider peptides: Deadly animate beings contain a figure of molecules that have effects similar to receptors and enzymes which comprise the two chief categories of marks for the action of drugs.10 These compounds found in their venoms contain a scope of bioactive molecules that have certain pharmacological effects at peculiar targets.9 Spider venoms have been shown to possess a huge beginning of peptide ligands that mark ion channels such as K, Ca and Na and these toxins have been studied to find the construction and roles these channels have in cells.5 The toxins in spider venom can be classified on their chemical nature, their pharmacological effects and their molecular degree effects.10 These toxins can be divided into two chief groups and these are neurolysins and non-neurotoxic peptides.7 Neurotoxins act against neuron receptors, neuron ion channels and presynaptic membrane proteins that affect neurotransmitter release.5/7 Non-neurotoxic peptides are peptides with antimicrobic or necrotic effects .7 The chief intent of a spiders venom is the palsy of their quarry, so this venom contains a figure of toxins which act on the nervous system.5 The neurotoxic activity of these venoms is due to the consequence they have on cellular receptors such as ion channels.8 To day of the month a bulk, if non all spider neurolysins identified are proteins, peptides or acylpolyamines.5 The neurolysins isolated from spider venoms can hold assorted manners of action such as impacting glutamatergic transmittal, exciting sender release and barricading postsynaptic cholinergic receptors.5 They act by upseting the basic cell map and impact the cell membrane receptors.5 Due to these actions they could be good in the survey of these receptors by modulating their map in a manner that is the same as the drug action.5 Polypeptide toxins are known to move as ion channel inhibitors and pore- forming peptides.9 Acylpolyamines act by barricading the insects neuromuscular junction taking to paralysis.9 They w ork by barricading the ion channels that target glutamate receptors, voltage-activated Ca channels and nicotinic acetylcholine receptors.9 Polypeptides and acylpolyamines are the chief constituents in spider venoms.9 Two illustrations of antimicrobic peptides that have been characterized within the last 10 old ages are Lycotoxins I and II and they came from the venom of the wolf spider ( Lycosa carolinensis ) .4 European wolf spider venoms: European wolf spiders are the â€Å"giants of the spider world† and are normally feared due to their big size.3 They belong to the mygalamorph group11 but lone spiders within the Theraphosidae household are classified as true tarantulas.3 There are about 860 theraphosid species and they can be found worldwide from tropical rain forests to comeuppances or savannas.3 Although there are a little figure of exclusions, European wolf spiders are non peculiarly harmful to worlds with most bites doing symptoms such as mild to severe hurting, itchiness, stiffness of articulations and conceited limbs.3 Tarantula venoms represent an copiousness of new pharmacologically active molecules for a scope of cell receptors and ion channels.3 Like about all other spiders, European wolf spiders are marauders and provender on a assortment of insects and little animate beings such as rats as prey.3 A European wolf spider s ability to capture quarry that is larger than it without the usage of webs, s uggests that these animals are both strong and possess venoms that are really efficient at moving rapidly on the quarries nervous system.3 Tarantula venoms are complex mixtures of constituents such as peptides, polyamines, free amino acids, salts, proteins and enzymes.3 The hurting experienced after a bite can be due to a figure of things such as local hurting caused by the Fangs, the venom s low pH and effects of biogenic amines.3 These venoms seem to change in authority depending on whether the quarry is a craniate or an invertebrate.3 The Chilean European wolf spider ( Grammostola spatulata ) was one of the first species to be studied as it was highly popular as a pet and because it produces big sums of venom.3 Cobalt Blue European wolf spider ( Haplopelma lividum ) : The Cobalt Blue European wolf spider belongs to the Theraphosidae household and is found in the rain forests of South East Asia.8 This burrowing spider prefers warm temperatures with a humidness degree of around 80 % .12This European wolf spider has a leg span of 4-5 inches and is really popular among tarantula enthusiasts8, particularly because of its electric blue coloring. The Cobalt bluish European wolf spider is known to be rather fast and is one of the most aggressive tarantulas.8This aggressiveness is a common trait in Asiatic European wolf spider. These European wolf spiders are antisocial by nature and be given to be rather shy.13 Cobalt blue European wolf spider can remain in their tunnels for hebdomads on terminal merely go forthing in hunt of nutrient and water.14 They favour crickets to other signifiers of quarry but they will besides eat cockroaches and other big insects.12The Cobalt blue, unlike other European wolf spiders do non hold urticating hairs so they use seize with teething as agencies of defense.13 The authority of their venom can be indicated to some grade from studies of pet proprietors who have experienced painful bites from these tarantulas.6 Their venom is non really likely to do any terrible effects in worlds and no deceases have been reported for this species. When the Cobalt Blue European wolf spider feels threatened it will raise up on its dorsum legs as warning before biting, which is their lone signifier of self-defense.12 In an experiment carried out by Pierre Escoubas and Lachlan Rash, it was noted that the mice died after 10 proceedingss when they were given an intracerebraventricular injection with 0.1 µl of the venom from this tarantula.3 Decision: There are about 39,000 species of spiders that are recognized to day of the month but merely a little sum of these species have been investigated so far, for the potentially utile toxins they may incorporate. The aim of this undertaking is to utilize MALDI-TOF/Q-TOF/ion trap mass spectroscopy to place and qualify the bioactive peptides in Cobalt Blue European wolf spider s venom. Plan of Probe Purpose: The purpose of this undertaking is to measure the bioactive peptides in the venom from the Colbalt blue ( Haplopelma lividum ) European wolf spider from the Theraphosidae household utilizing ion trap, matrix-assisted optical maser desorption ionisation time-of-flight ( MALDI-TOF ) and quadruplicate clip of flight ( QTOF ) mass spectroscopy. Method: 1. The European wolf spider venom that will be used for appraisal will come in pre-fractionated samples. 2. MALDI-TOF mass spectroscopy will be used in order to measure the molecular weight of the peptides. This will supply accurate mass findings and primary sequencing information that will assist infer unknown peptide sequences. 3. Additionally QTOF and ion trap mass spectroscopy will be used to set up the atomization profiles of the peptides. 4. Vinyl pyridine is a protein alkylating agent that will be used to observe the presence of disulfide bonds in the peptides. 5. A chemical alteration trial will be carried out to place cysteine rich peptides. 6. MS/MS techniques will be used to find the construction of the peptides. 7. A database hunt will be conducted to find if there is any homology with bing peptides. 8. Last the pharmacological function of these peptides as venom constituents and their possible pharmaceutical map will be postulated. Experiments and controls: In this undertaking the bioactive peptides are analysed utilizing a figure of mass spectroscopy processs.  · Mass Spectrometry Mass Spectrometry is an analytical technique that is an of import tool used in the analysis and word picture of biomolecules such as peptides.15 How it works: A mass spectrometer is made up of three cardinal parts which are the ionisation beginning, the analyzer and the detector.16 1. The sample is loaded into the ionisation beginning of the mass spectrometer instrument. 2. The sample molecules undergo ionisation in this country which consequences in formation of positively charged ions. 3. These ions are accelerated by a magnetic field and are extracted into the analyser country of the mass spectrometer where they are detached harmonizing to their mass to bear down ratios ( m/z ) . 4. The detached ions are detected and this signal is sent to the information system where the mass to bear down ratios are stored together with their comparative copiousness for presentation in the format of an m/z spectrum. The Mass Spectrometer, accessed 2009 December 1, cited at hypertext transfer protocol: //www.chemguide.co.uk/analysis/masspec/howitworks.html  · MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry Matrix assisted laser desorption ionisation time-of-flight ( MALDI-TOF ) mass spectroscopy is an of import analytical tool used in life sciences for protein and peptide analysis.16This instrument enables mass to be determined accurately15 and due to its truth it is really successful in protein designation and characterization.17 In MALDI mass spectroscopy the sample is bombarded with a optical maser to bring forth ionisation. MALDI mass spectroscopy vaporizes and ionise both little and big molecules without damaging them.17The time-of-flight ( TOF ) analyser accelerates the ions utilizing an electric field and measures the clip they reach the detector.15 Control: This instrument will be calibrated with a known sample that will be analysed independently each twenty-four hours before the venom samples are analysed. Diagram: A diagram of a MALDI-TOF mass spectrometer MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry, accessed 2009 December 3, cited at hypertext transfer protocol: //www.psrc.usm.edu/mauritz/maldi.html  · Q-TOF Mass Spectrometry Quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectroscopy uses hovering electric Fieldss to go through the ions to the sensor. This instrument is rather similar to the MALDI-TOF mass spectrometer in that it has the same sample demands but it has better declaration leting more information to be given for protein individuality via MS/MS experiments.18/19 Control: This instrument is calibrated in the same manner as the MALDI-TOF mass spectrometer. Diagram: A diagram of a Q-TOF mass spectrometer runing in MS and MS/MS manners Q-TOF mass spectrometer Ashcroft A.E, An Introduction to Mass Spectrometry, accessed 2009 December 3, cited at hypertext transfer protocol: //www.astbury.leeds.ac.uk/facil/MStut/mstutorial.htm  · Ion trap Mass Spectrometry Ion trap mass spectroscopy is an instrument that is able to place little and big molecules and is used to happen their molecular mass.20This instrument takes the ions that were created, in this instance from matrix assisted laser desorption ionisation procedure and uses an electrostatic lens system system to put them in the ion trap.20 Control: This instrument does non necessitate calibrated on a day-to-day footing or every clip it is used, as it merely needs calibrated one time a twelvemonth. Diagram: A diagram of an Ion trap mass spectrometer Janscher K.R, Yates J.T, The Why and Whies of Quadrupole Ion trap Mass Spectrometry, accessed 2009 December 3, cited at hypertext transfer protocol: //www.abrf.org/ABRFNews/1996/September 1996/Sep96iontrap.html Costings  · Equipment: The equipment that will be used for the continuance of this undertaking is MALDI-TOF, QTOF and ion trap mass spectroscopy. The cost for each is shown below and includes the cost for all chemicals needed for its usage.  · MALDI-TOF Cost per usage ten figure of times needed = sum cost ?1.70 x 10 = ?17.00  · QTOF Cost per usage ten figure of times needed = sum cost ?18.04 x 4 = ?72.16  · Ion trap Cost per usage ten figure of times needed = sum cost ?3.74 x 5 = ?18.70 * Total cost for equipment use = ?17.00 + ?72.16 + ?18.70 = ?107.86  · Reagents: The reagents that will be used for the continuance of this undertaking are 4-vinyl pyridine, dithiothreitol ( DTT ) , ammonium hydrogen carbonate and trypsin. The costs for each is shown below in the measures needed. * 4-vinyl pyridine-This is used as a protein alkylating agent Cost for 100ML= ?18.30 * Dithiothreitol ( DTT ) This is used for cut downing the protein disulfide bonds Cost for 50ML = ?31.80  · Ammonium Bicarbonate Cost for 25g = ?8.60 * Trypsin- This hydrolyses the proteins into smaller amino acids Cost for 1VL= ?42.20 * Total cost for reagents = ?18.30 + ?31.80 + ?8.60 + ?42.20 = ?100.90 * Total cost for undertaking = entire cost of equipment + entire cost of reagents = ?107.86 + ?100.90 = ?208.76 Mentions 1. Escoubas P, King G.F, Venomics as a drug find platform, Expert Review Proteomics, 2009, Volume 6, Issue 3 ; 221-224, accessed 2009 November 28, cited at hypertext transfer protocol: //www.expert-reviews.com/doi/pdf/10.1586/epr.09.45? cookieSet=1 2. Wood D. LA et Al, Arachno Server: a database of peptide toxins from spiders, BMS Genomics Journal, August 2009, Volume 10, Issue 375, accessed 2009 November 29, cited at hypertext transfer protocol: //www.biomedcentral.com/content/pdf/1471-2164-10-375.pdf 3. Escoubas P, Rash L, Tarantulas: eight-legged druggists and combinative chemists, Toxicon Journal, 2004, Volume 43 ; 555-574, accessed 2009 November 5, cited at hypertext transfer protocol: //www.sciencedirect.com/science? _ob_MImg A ; _imagekey=B6TCS-4BWW8PS-2-G A ; _cdi=5178 A ; _user=126978 4. Liu Z.H, Qian W, Zhang Y, Liang S, Biochemical and pharmacological survey of venom of the wolf spider Lycosa singoriensis, Journal of Venomous Animals and Toxins including Tropical Diseases, 2009, Volume 15, No 1, accessed 2009 November 30, cited at hypertext transfer protocol: //www.scielo.br/scielo.php? script=sci_arttext amp ; pid=S1678-91992009000100008 5. Rash L.D, Hodgson W.C, Pharmacology and biochemistry of spider venoms, Toxicon Journal, 2002, Volume 40 ; 225-254, accessed 2009 November 11, cited at hypertext transfer protocol: //www.sciencedirect.com/science? ob=MImg A ; _imagekey=B6TCS-44D3TCN-1-7 A ; _cdi=5178 A ; _user=126978 6. Moore S et Al, Mass spectrometric word picture and quantitation of selected low molecular mass compounds from the venom of Haplopelma lividum ( Theraphosidae ) , 2008, accessed 2009 November 5, cited at hypertext transfer protocol: //www3.interscience.wiley.com/cgi-bin/fulltext/122380578/PDFSTART 7. Choi S.J et Al, Isolation and word picture of Psalmopeotoxin I and II: two novel antimalarial peptides from the venom of the European wolf spider Psalmopoeus cambridgei, 2004, Volume 572 ; 109-117, accessed 2009 November 5, cited at hypertext transfer protocol: //www.sciencedirect.com/science? _ob=MImg A ; _imagekey=B6T36-4CX6SFO-1-1 A ; _cdi=4938 A ; _user=126978 8. Escoubas P, Diochot S, Corzo G, Structure and pharmaceutics of spider venom neurolysins, 2000, Volume 82 ; 893-907, accessed 2009 November 23, cited at hypertext transfer protocol: //www.sciencedirect.com/science? _ob=MImg A ; _imagekey=B6VRJ-431B1CT-C-7 A ; _cdi=6236 A ; _user=126978 9. Escoubas P, Bosmans F, Spider peptide toxins as leads for drug development, Expert Opinion Review, 2007 ; 823-835, accessed 2009 November 19, cited at hypertext transfer protocol: //informahealthcare.com/doi/pdf/10.1517/17460441.2.6.823 10. Pimenta A.M.C, De Lima M.E, Small peptides, large universe: biotechnological potency in ignored bioactive peptides from arthropod venoms, Journal of Peptide Science, 2005, Volume 11 ; 670-676, accessed 2009 November 5, cited at hypertext transfer protocol: //www3.interscience.wiley.com/cgi-bin/fulltext/110579667/PDFSTART 11. Shirey K, Jones S, Rayburn J, Toxicity of venom from two European wolf spider species, Journal of the Alabama Academy of Science, April 2009, accessed 2009 November 30, cited at hypertext transfer protocol: //findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_hb178/is_2_80/ai_n35695049/ 12. Information on Cobalt Blue Tarantula, accessed 2009 November 26, cited at hypertext transfer protocol: //www.spidy.goliatus.com/ /article-cobalt-blue-tarantula.php 13. Colbalt Blue Tarantula, accessed 2009 December 1, cited at hypertext transfer protocol: //www.exoticpets.co.uk/cobaltbluetarantula.html 14. The Cobalt Blue Tarantula, accessed 2009 November 26, cited at hypertext transfer protocol: //www.orkin.com/other/spiders/the-cobalt-blue-tarantula 15. Lennon J.L, Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry, accessed 2009 December 5, cited at hypertext transfer protocol: //www.abrf.org/abrfnews/1997/june1997/jun97lennon.html 16. Ashcroft, A.E, An Introduction to Mass Spectrometry, accessed 2009 December 1, cited at hypertext transfer protocol: //www.astbury.leeds.ac.uk/facil/MStut/mstutorial.htm 17. Lewis J.K, Wei J, Siuzdak G, Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionisation Mass Spectrometry in Peptides and Protein Analysis, Encyclopedia of Analytical Chemistry, 2000 ; 5880-5894, accessed 2009 November 30, cited at hypertext transfer protocol: //massspec.scripps.edu/publications/public_pdf/64_art.pdf 18. Cornelis E.C.A, Application of Quadrupole-Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry to Facilitate Metabolite Identification, accessed 2009 November 30, cited at hypertext transfer protocol: //americanpahrmaceuticalreview.com/ViewArticle.aspx? contentID=31 19. Q-TOF Mass Spectrometry, Skirball Institute of Biomolecular Medicine, accessed 2009 December 5, cited at hypertext transfer protocol: //saturn.med.nyu.edu/facilities/paf/qtof.html 20. Janscher K.R, Yates J.R, The Why and Wherefore of Quadrupole Ion Trap Mass Spectrometry, accessed 2009 December 5, cited at hypertext transfer protocol: //www.arbf.org/ABRFNews/1996/September1996/sep96iontrap.html

Common law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words - 1

Common law - Essay Example Wirral Utilities has dug a trench along the pavement and so as to prevent anybody falling in the trench, placed at one end a long handed hammer and at the other some picks and shovels. One end of the hammer lay on the pavement, and the other was hooked on to some railings. These precautions would have been sufficient for the public at large who used the pavement, but the claimant was special, in that he was blind. While walking to his work along the pavement as usual, he had a fall because he tripped over the end of the hammer lying on the pavement. Normal people would have seen the danger, but the claimant did not. He was himself not negligent. His white stick had passed over the hammer. As a result of the fall, he banged his head against the pavement. In the resultant injury, he became deaf and had to retire early from the job. The claimant has sued Wirral Utilities for the tort of negligence. The case is founded on four scenarios or likely turns of event. First is whether Wirral Utilities owed any duty of care to the public at large who utilized the pavement. The next question is whether Wirral utilities breached that duty owed to the claimant. It is the third point to be considered whether the damage to the claimant i.e. the injury caused to him arising from such negligence was foreseeable by a party in a position as Wirral utilities. Ultimately the essay will address the possible defences that Wirral utilities may have against the action brought by the claimant. People have rights in law apart from those arising out of contract. These rights can be enforced by the injured party. When these rights are infringed by somebody out of which the person is injured, and a damage results out of that injury, the party whose act or omission led to the tort is liable to the person aggrieved. Law imposes a duty upon everybody to take care that no one suffers as a result of his act or omission. Thus, in law, a person is duty bound to keep his dog on a

The Jurisdiction and National Security Policy Assignment

The Jurisdiction and National Security Policy - Assignment Example With limited types of cases that it can hear, The Federal Court hears cases that involve the United States as a party. The jurisdiction of the Federal Court System also includes cases that violate the U.S Constitution or general federal laws. Some of these laws are on copyright, patent, bankruptcy and maritime law cases. Another area of difference with the jurisdiction of State of California and the Federal Court System is that whereas the State of California Court System is not mandated to hear cases in which one or both parties live outside California, the Federal Court System is allowed to hear cases between citizens of different States, especially with the amount in contention exceeds $75,000. Finally, there are instances where both the State and Federal Courts have jurisdiction. It is the case, the parties involved choosing which of the two courts they would want to use. 2. Explain what national security policy is and identify the key policy-making actors in U.S foreign policy T he National Security Policy is a guiding principle of strategic national security plan prepared on a periodic basis by the executive arm of the United States Government. The policy is made up of major national security issues and ways by which the Administration plans to handle them. Though prepared by the Executive Arm of government, the National Security Policy is prepared for Congress.

Rural nursese and Inteavenous rehydration in paediatric Research Paper

Rural nursese and Inteavenous rehydration in paediatric gastroenteritis - Research Paper Example In order to know the quality, rigor and weight of evidence presented in a research paper, tools such as (COREQ) are used depending on the research design used (Agustin 7). (COREQ) is used in assessing qualitative studies. Other tools used to assess qualitative studies are MOOSE for Meta analysis of observational studies in epidemiology while the TREND is used for Quasi-experimental or non-randomized assessments (Finlay and Gough 22). Journal The study is reported in the Journal of Advanced Nursing, which is a leading international journal that is peer reviewed and is highly rated on Impact factor of 1.54. The target audience for the journal is health care professionals in pursuit of advanced practice and professional development. It provides knowledge and evidence. The journal is published by Blackwell Publishing Ltd, which has offices in many locations in the world, one of them being in Melbourne, Australia. The journal provide a wealth of knowledge and information that addresses is sues of international interests and concern and present them as research findings, research-based reviews, discussion papers and other articles from practitioners, administrators, researchers, educators among others in the field of nursing, midwifery and health sciences, and therefore, I would apply this information into practice. Authors The study conception and design was done by Jane Mills who is a research fellow in the School of nursing and midwifery at the Monash University, Victoria, Karen Francis a professor in rural nursing at the School of nursing and Midwifery of Monash University and Ann Bonner who is a senior lecturer and the School of nursing, Midwifery and Nutrition at James Cook University, Victoria, Australia. Mills drafted the manuscript and performed data collection and data analysis while Francis and Bonner made the vital revisions to the paper and supervised the whole study. The authors are researchers and educators in nursing with Francis being a professional r esearcher in rural nursing, and therefore, they bring a wealth of knowledge into rural nursing and specifically mentorship, and therefore, would apply this information into practice. Title The title of this research is ‘Live My Work: Rural Nurses and their Multiple Perspectives of Self.’ A good research title is described by Simera, Moher, Hoey, Schulz and Altman 37) to be explicit. It clearly states the general idea of the research without leaving any doubts, questions or room for clarifications while remaining exact and to the point. It is also intriguing enough to make readers want to continue reading the paper. This title achieves all this in that it is short, clear and to the point and gives, the general idea of what the study is all about, mentorship in rural nursing practice. Background and explanation of rationale Mentoring has been cited internationally as a solution to the problem of retaining rural nursing workforce. Rural nursing has been described well by t he RRMAS Index of remoteness in terms of distance to the service centres and distance from other people. Research has also helped in outlining the characteristics that distinguish rural and urban nursing practice. From these characteristics, the implications of living and working in the same community for the rural nurses worldwide have been identified as the most significant. In Australia, recruiting and retaining rural n

Smog Pollution And Problems It Causes Environmental Sciences Essay

Smog Pollution And Problems It Causes Environmental Sciences Essay Smog pollution is a major problem that this planet is suffering from everyday. It has affected our homes, weather, and health. It is a very dangerous situation for us if we do not do anything about it. Smog pollution is caused by chemicals, automobiles, factories and corporations. The greatest thing we can do as a society is try to find a way to help prevent and stop smog pollution. If the people on this planet do not do anything to stop smog pollution we are going to have a BIG problem and it will hurt us in the future. We need a plan and we need to put a stop to smog pollution. The American Lung Association (ALA) has been trying to find ways to help stop and prevent smog pollution from hurting us and the environment. If we can just do our part and find a way to prevent this problem from getting any bigger, it will benefit us all. We all have heard of smog pollution, but do we really know what it is. Smog pollution has many causes that can be hazardous and dangerous to our health and well being. The term smog pollution is also known as photochemical smog. It is formed by the interaction with sunlight with different types of chemicals in earths atmosphere (Oblack). The main component of smog pollution or photochemical pollution is ozone. Ozone is in the earths stratosphere, which the shields the earth from dangerous UV radiation from the sun. The problem with ozone is when it touches down on the earths surface it can be very dangerous and can cause serious health problems for people on the planet (Oblack). The ground level ozone is made by the emissions of automobiles that put nitrogen oxide into the air, which is caused by the vehicles exhaust fumes (Oblack). The organic components from the fumes combined with the ozone and fume evaporation that combines with sunlight, causes smog pollution on the planet (Oblack). Many people try to find ways to help avoid smog in a more planet friendly environment, so some people use substitutes for their everyday use. There is just one problem with that, and that is the sun. Many people dont understand that sunlight and warm climates cause pollution. For example, places like California, Florida, and Arizona and even North America are some of the most polluted places in the country (Oblack). Another problem that causes an increase in smog pollution is the increased usage of fossil fuels for industrial, heating, and of course transportation purposes (All that smog). Also, cutting down, burning trees, and disposing of agricultural and organic waste can also lead to emissions of smog pollution and harmful problems for the planet (All that Smog). Sunlight mixed with different types of dangerous chemicals (se condary pollution) also makes it difficult to stop smog pollution from occurring on the surface of the planet (All that Smog), which creates another big problem. Climate is a major factor for the cause of smog pollution. Many places in the world can try to be more environmental friendly to help save our planet. Some people ride bicycles instead of driving cars. Other people try to reduce their use of using fire to warm themselves. The only problem that these people cannot get away from is something that they cannot control, and that is the sun. California is ranked in the top 10 most polluted areas in the United States. Ozone pollution that is caused by the sun has a major affect on this planet. Smog and air pollution is having a serious impact on the environment and can condemn all ecosystems (seirraclub). The reason why the sun causes so many problems is because the ozone layer that is supposed to protect planet earth is practically destroyed. Without the protection, the sun is able to shine radiation onto the planet and is the main reason for many health issues that people go through every day. Issues like skin cancer, radiation poisoning, and sun burn are having fatal affects on people. This type of pollution not only harms humans, but it can also harm wild life and the environment. Smog can harm different plants, which can lead to damaging consequences. Because the plants are damaged, it makes it hard for plants to make and save food for themselves in their living environment (seirraclub). In addition, the sun and smog can destroy leaves and plants it would make many of the plants vulnerable to getting diseases. And, they cannot defend themselves from different types of bugs and insects that can cause a huge decrease in plant life (seirraclub). Smog pollution is a yearly problem for places like Texas, Georgia, Florida, and many other southern and sunny parts of the world, but there is also a big increase in smog pollution in the summer (seirraclub). This is caused by strong sunlight that burns the earths surface. However, the one thing that is helping smog pollution is all of the problems that are on this planet. A ll of the power plants, automobile emissions, industrial, and chemical vapors are other causes of pollution (seirraclub). Climate changes are part of the problem as well. Within the months of June, July, and August, it makes it harder to try and control the smog pollution, due to the sun. This planet has gone through billions of years of evolution. It survived dinosaurs, the ice age, and the black plague, but because of smog pollution this planet might not be able to survive this new attack. A major problem smog pollution is causing is health concerns for the public. Smog pollution is affecting human health because it is making it harder to breathe the smog induced air. Because of this and sun radiation, this is resulting in many fatalities, including skin and lung cancer. Peoples lungs and hearts can be dangerously affected by smog and air pollution (Oblack). Many people are still skeptical about smog pollution, but one thing that is known is long term exposure can result in dangerous and even fatal heath affects to people (Oblack). Some of the long term affects caused by exposure to smog pollution are problems breathing, coughing, wheezing, pneumonia, bronchitis, inflammation of the pulmonarys, lung cancer, heart problems, asthma like symptoms, pre mature aging of lungs, and last, but not least, death (Oblack). Smog pollution, even in small doses, can be very dangerous and harmful to all people. The American Lung Association estimated that 48 percent of people in the w orld live with very high levels of smog (seirraclub). Even though exposure to smog is dangerous, there are three types of people who can be severely damaged from smog, which include children, the elderly, and people with respiratory problems (seirraclub). The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has created the Air Quality Index which lets you check the air density and pollution level around your areas (seirraclub). Furthermore, The Department of Motor vehicles have been trying to develop a plan to reduce vehicle emission and try to improve on air quality for the planet and help save the planet (Malone). The DMV has also been trying to encourage the residents of the United States to help stop smog. They are trying to do their part by asking people to report anyone who has visible exhaust coming out of their automobiles (Malone). If we can all do our fair share and help support this plan we can be able to help stop smog pollution. In all, smog pollution is a major concern for our environment and this planet. If we do not find a way to try and stop smog pollution, we will have many more health problems. Fortunately, there are people who are trying to find ways to stop smog pollution. Many people who are trying to create plans that can help bring this planet back to a healthier state. In 1996, smoking vehicle program was passed that stated that anyone who sees smoking exhaust coming from cars, trucks, or any other motor vehicles were to voluntarily report it to the authorities as a way of preventing polluted air (Malone). It is also there to help educate people about smog pollution and what they can do to help stop it (Malone). The American Lung Association (ALA) also came up with certain help to bring attention to the issue of smog pollution. They advised people to pay more attention to the Air Quality Index (AQI) around their area. They tried to educate people about Ozone action days and how not to ignore them . Finally, ALA attempted to help people get familiar with how smog adversely affects their health (Oblack). The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) takes it upon them to check evidence every five years to see whether or not the situation of smog pollution has changed for better or worse (seirraclub). It is very simple to stop smog pollution. We can all use our cars, trucks, and motorcycles, sparingly. We all must try to do our fair share and we must be able to bring awareness to how dangerous the sun can really be. We need to fight back against smog. If we do not do anything about it, this planet and everything on it will suffer. Group against Smog and Pollution (GASP) is a non-profit citizens group in Southwestern Pennsylvania working for a healthy, sustainable environment. GASP was founded in 1969, with a group of volunteers who were worried about air quality issues here in Pennsylvania. GASP has been a diligent watchdog, educator, litigator, and policy-maker on many environment al issues, with a focus on air quality in the Pittsburgh region. Their objective is to teach and enlighten the public about pollution and its remedies. Their Mission Statement is will act to obtain for the residents of Western Pennsylvania clean air, water, and land in order to create a healthy, sustainable environment and quality of life to which we are entitled (Groups against Smog and Pollution.) Obviously GASP is doing their part, but what are we doing as individuals to help?

Jarok as a Traitor :: Star Trek Defector Essays Papers

Jarok as a Traitor A creator of a web page has good intentions to display to the viewer the correct information, but there is no way to tell if the creator gives an accurate representation of the information. In the episode "The Defector", Jarok does not appear to be a traitor through his actions, but the way he represents himself clearly makes him a traitor. A traitor, as defined by Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, is one who betrays another's trust or is false to an obligation or duty. A defector is defined as one who leaves a situation often to go over to a rival one. During the course of the episode, Jarok is a traitor to the Romulans, the Federation, and his daughter, although he is labeled in the title of the episode as a defector. During the episode, Jarok physically joins with the Federation, which can lead one to believe he is a defector. He may have crossed over for the good of everyone, but he betrayed his country at an ideological level. He gave information to the Federation, including details of the Romulan fleet, technology, and offensive. "Jarok said that he had seen reports, fee receipts, and work orders for the construction of a military base." (Smith 30 Jan. 1996) He, also, stole a ship and claimed he had no other option, but there were, most likely, other options he could have resorted to. Tomalak, the head of the Romulans remarked at the end of the episode, " You see, Picard, after we dissect your enterprise for every precious bit of information, I intend to display its broken hull in the center of the Romulan capitol as a symbol of our victory. It will inspire our armies for generations to come. And serve as a warning to any other traitor who would create ripples of disloyalty." ("The Defector" 1 4 Jan. 1990) The Romulans planted misinformation knowing Jarok might betray their trust. Jarok believed he had valid information, which placed even greater value on these top secrets he shouldn't have revealed to the Federation. When one obtains information from a web page, the information may not be the truth. After betraying his own country, he could have come over to the rival to act as a defector; instead he represented himself as a traitor to the Federation. By using a false name, it seemed he wanted to conceal his true identity to the Federation.

A brief history of science education in Ghana Essay

Science education is the cultivation and disciplining the mind and other faculties of an individual to utilize science for improving his life, cope with an increasingly technological world, or pursue science academically and professionally, and for dealing responsibly with science related social issues (Akpan, 1992). Ghana, formerly known as the Gold Coast, was the first African country to the south of the Sahara to gain political independence from colonial rule in 1957. This former British colony of 92,000 square miles (about 238,000 square kilometers) shares boundaries with three French-speaking nations: the Cote d’Ivoire to the west, Burkina Faso to the north and Togo to the east. The Gulf of Guinea of the Atlantic Ocean is to the south of the country. EARLY HISTORY OF EDUCATION BEFORE INDEPENDENCE As was the case in many colonies during the early colonial period, the main goal of education was to ‘make civilization march hand-in-hand with evangelization’ (Anum –Odoom, 2013). This statement gives a clear description of how education in Ghana was implemented at that time. The formal, western-style education in Ghana is directly associated with the history of European activities on the Gold Coast The Portuguese were the first Europeans to arrive at the Guinea coast in 1471. Their intention to establish schools was expressed in imperial instructions that, in 1529, encouraged the Governor of the Portuguese Castle at Elmina to teach reading, writing, and the Catholic religion to the people. It is imply proven that the Danish, Dutch and the English merchants also set up schools in their forts and castle to educate their mulatto children by native women. Unmistakably linked to the implementation of formal education in Ghana with the Christian missionaries, who realized that in order to spread the word of God, they needed well- educated local assistants. Following the consolidation of the coastal region as the British Gold Coast Colony, the administration became more aggressive in pursuit of its educational policy. This was precipitated by the British purchase of the Danish property at Christiansborg in 1850 and the Dutch Elmina Castle in 1872. To help redress problems faced by the mission schools—such as training local teachers and improving the quality of education—the administration made grants to both the Wesleyan and Basel missions in 1874. In the Educational Ordinance of 1882, government grants to denominational schools were made dependent on an assessment of the level of efficiency. The schools receiving grant-in-aid were defined as â€Å"government assisted schools,† but their primary funding was to come from the missions themselves and from other private sources. On the Gold Coast, the appointment of Brigadier General Gordon Guggisberg as governor brought its own advantages. During his tenure from 1919 through 1927, Governor Guggisberg initiated several major developmental programs that included educational improvements as a critical ingredient in his construction of a modern Gold Coast. While the previous administration had seen the provision of elementary schools by the various Christian missions as adequate, Guggisberg was of the conviction that the current system could not sustain future developments. In fact, only a few months after his arrival, the governor presented a 10-year development plan for the Gold Coast. Among other things, funding was aggressively sought for post elementary education for boys and girls. Even though the administration proposed a technical college for Accra, the Prince of Wales College (now Achimota College) was the real trophy of the administration’s educational program. This non denominational school catered for students from kindergarten to the pre university level. THE BIRTH OF SCIENCE EDUCATION The inadequacies inherent in the system of education were observed in the post-World War I appeal made by the Foreign Missions Conference of North America to the Phelps-Stokes Funds for a review of the state of education in Africa. The Phelps-Stokes Commission on Africa issued reports in 1922 and 1925 in which educators were criticized for inadequately catering to the social and economic needs of the continent. The commission of which James Emman Kwegyir Aggrey was a member, called for instructions in the mechanical operations necessary for the improvement of the condition of the mass majority of the people. This included science education and character training. The Phelps-Stokes fund’s founded in 1920, is an African Education Commission represented one of the early attempts to link black Africa with Negro America. The attempt to forge this link represented a concerted policy on the part of a number of missionary and philanthropic groups in the United Kingdom and the United States to draw attention to what seemed to be analogous situations-politically, socially, and economically. Ghana is said to be the first independent sub-Saharan African country outside South Africa to embark on a comprehensive drive to promote science education and the application of science in industrial and social development (Anamuah-Mensah, 1999). Science Education after Independence After Phelps- stokes commission had pushed for the birth of science education in Africa in general and in particular, Gold Coast, there has not been any clear cut national policy for science education in Ghana up to date (Ahmed, 2013). Dr Kwame Nkrumah who aimed at achieving Free Compulsory Universal Basic Education instituted an Act called 1961 Act, (Act 87) . This Act was to make Basic education free and Compulsory and anyone who fails to send his or her child to school was made to pay a fund by the Minister for education. The education system at that point consisted of six year of primary education, followed by four-years of secondary education. At the end of the four years suitable students went on to do a two-year sixth form course that could lead to a three year University course. Students, who were not suitable to continue, completed two- year of pre-vocational classes. The Nkrumah government encouraged the learning of science by instituting a special scholarship scheme which enabled science and agriculture undergraduates to enjoy scholarships a little higher than those of their counterparts in the humanities. This facility was withdrawn after 1966. Science and mathematics teachers were also paid a little more than their colleagues in the humanities. (Djangmah, 2007) The Reforms The seven year development plan instituted by Dr. Kwame Nkrumah was short lived. The system was later regarded as too long and too academic. Thus Dzobo Education Reforms of 1974 saw a reform of the system, instating the Junior Secondary School (now Junior High School) on an experimental basis. The Junior Secondary School introduced practical subjects and activities allowing students to acquire occupational skills, which after an apprenticeship lead to the qualification for self-employment. Due to a wide range of factors such as the economic decline, bureaucracy and sheer lack of interest the JSS-system never went beyond the experimental phase. By 1983 the education system was in a state of crisis. It faced drastic reductions in Government financing, lack of educational materials, and deterioration of school structures, low enrollment levels and high dropout rates. With the assistance of several development partners (World Bank, Department for International Development (ODA) and international grants) the education system was reviewed and proposals were implemented in 1987 known as Evans-Anfom reforms. In 1987, Ghana’s Ministry of Education introduced a restructured educational system that gradually replaced the British-based O-level and A-level system. The transition was completed in June, 1996, when the last class took A-level exams. The last O-level exams were administered in June 1994, although a remedial exam was offered through 1999 (Keteku, 2013) The 1987 Reforms had strengths as well as weaknesses. One of the strengths was that it provided a comprehensive Basic Education which improved access to education for more children of school-going age. Junior Secondary Schools were provided throughout the country and this helped to increase literacy levels. The reform also introduced Continuous Assessment which formed part of the final examination. This ensured that internal assessment in schools was included in the final examinations and this ended the single-shot examination existing in the old system. The Anamuah-Mensah Report recommended similar structure of education just like the Evans-Anfom Report of 1986. The difference was the inclusion of two (2) years of Kindergarten education as part of Basic Education and Apprenticeship training for leavers of the Junior Secondary School who unable to or do not want to continue in the formal sector. The implementation of the Anamuah-Mensah Reforms began in September 2007, and it was faced with initial problems. These problems included delay in the supply of syllabuses and textbooks for the smooth take-off of the programme, and teachers were not adequately prepared in terms of training to implement the reforms. These problems were later dealt with as the implementation of the reforms progressed. The next major problem being anticipated is the inadequate classrooms and other facilities as students will enter the fourth year of Senior High School in September 2010. The Way Forward For Science Education Promotion of science education in the country will depend on three drivers of change, namely, funding, teaching and interventions, and research (Akyeampong ,2007) Funding Knowledge is not cheap. Science, technology and mathematics knowledge required to move the country into the knowledge society can never be cheap. Government’s commitment to science education should be demonstrated in the level of resources allocated to science and technology. Laboratories and workshops in the schools, teacher training colleges, universities and polytechnics should be well equipped and new ones constructed to take into consideration the increasing student population. Research The knowledge society thrives on the creation of new knowledge. Research provides the means by which new knowledge is created. Resources, both material and human, for research in science and technology are woefully inadequate or non-existent. This has had a profound effect on the development of post graduate research in the universities. A number of measures need to be taken to strengthen research in science and technology in order to meet the demands of the country. The following are being suggested: †¢Research in research institutions and the universities should be adequately funded. †¢Most researches carried out in the universities are those that interest the researchers and are hence supply-driven; the Government should challenge our scientists and provide funds to carry out research on problems confronting the country. This can be done through the provision of research funds to be competed for by all scientists in the country. †¢Establish a National Science Research Facilities Centre equipped with world class specialized facilities which are normally expensive and therefore beyond the means of single institutions, to provide opportunities for Ghanaian researchers to carry out scientific research and development and retain local researchers as well as attract foreign ones. †¢To improve the quality of science education at all levels, research in science and technology should include research on teaching and learning science, technology and mathematics. †¢Institute special awards for best researchers and science teachers. This could be termed the President’s Award for Science to be given annually. We need to celebrate achievement. †¢Set up a formal scheme for mentoring the Youth- This is critical to the development of a career path in science for the youth. Mentors excite interest in junior colleagues and help them to â€Å"walk the path†. This experience is however rare in the universities. These days, newly recruited scientists struggle to keep afloat with little or no support. A formal mentoring system should be established in all institutions to ensure that young scientists recruited into the universities or research institutions are attached to professors and senior scientists in their fields of study to receive advice and support. The mentoring can take the form of joint research, publications and presentations at conferences and seminars. †¢To raise the level of awareness of science and technology innovation (research) and foster a synergy among education, industry and research institutes, a project referred to as SMART. MOVES in some countries should be established in secondary schools. This project will involve encouraging schools through visits, presentations and seminars to work on problem solving projects with support from the community. The projects will be assessed and students with innovative and creative projects will be invited to present their projects at a Junior Scientist Conference which will be attended by senior scientists who can later act as mentors for the students. Prizes will be given to students based on the quality of project and presentation. The Ghana Academy of Science and Arts can take up this. Conclusion The vision of the National Science and Technology Policy is: â€Å"to support national socio-economic development goals with a view to lifting Ghana to a middle income status by the year 2020 through the perpetuation of a science and technology culture at all the levels of society, which is driven by the promotion of innovation and the mastery of known and proven technologies and their application in industry, and other sectors of the economy†. (MEST, 2000) This vision can become a reality when science education is given a boost at all levels of education. It has been suggested that the promotion of science education hinges on three pillars – funding, teaching and intervention, and research. Without adequate funding, quality teachers, supportive intervention activities and research to illuminate our understanding, science education will have no impact on the everyday lives of Ghanaians; and the observation made by the National Development Planning Commission will remain true. Our national vision for science and technology will be therefore be meaningless. REFERENCES Ahmed, M. (2012). Ghana to launch National Science policy. Retrieved 4th October, 2013, from http://www. ghanaweb. com/GhanaHomePage/NewsArchive/artikel. php? ID=235350. Akpan, O. E. (1992) Toward Creative Science teaching and learning in West African school. Ghana: catholic Press Akyeampong, K. (Centre for International Education, University of Sussex, England) in his lecture on â€Å"50 Years of Educational Progress and Challenge in Ghana†, at Parliament House, London, England; 2007 Anamuah-Mensah, J. (1999). Science and Technology Education in Ghana. A paper delivered at the National education Forum on the theme: Towards Sustaining an Effective National Education System, held at the Accra International Conference Centre, Accra, 17-19th November. Anum-Odoom, A. K. M . Educational Reforms in Ghana, 1974-2007. Retrieved on 12th October, 2013, from http://www. ghanaweb. com/GhanaHomePage/blogs/blog. article. php? blog=2091&ID=1000004125- Djangmah, J. S. Clarifying Ghana’s national vision for the application of science and technology to development. Retrieved on 12th October, 2013, from http://www. ghanansem. org/index. php? option=com_content&task=view&id=234 Keteku, N. W (EDUCATIONAL REFORM IN GHANA: THE SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL). Retrieved 10th October, 2013, from http://www. bibl. u-szeged. hu/oseas_adsec/ghana. htm Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology (MEST) (2000). National Science and Technology Policy Document. Accra: MEST.

Summary of Organizing Genius The Secrets of Creative Collaboration was by Warren Bennis and Patricia Ward Biederman

Summary of Organizing Genius The Secrets of Creative Collaboration was by Warren Bennis and Patricia Ward Biederman The book is divided into eight topics that explore the concept of personal organization. Bennis and Biederman (1997) elaborate how good organization can lead to improved performance. It may also result into enormous success by an individual.  The first chapter discusses the importance of combined efforts in dealing with a challenge.Advertising We will write a custom book review sample on Summary of Organizing Genius: The Secrets of Creative Collaboration was by Warren Bennis and Patricia Ward Biederman specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The authors are completely against individual success. Unfortunately, they note that most Americans believe in the ideal of individualism. They argue that through the American world can achieve a lot through teamwork. They propose that as the world continues to become a global village, individualism cannot prevail. The second chapter analyses a film industry with the aim of ascertaining the importance of group work. For a movie to be successful, a lot of group work is needed. No individual person has the capability of producing a movie or a film. The combined creativity in these areas can produce impressive results. The level of collaboration witnessed in the film industry was instrumental in attaining the greatest levels of creativity. This chapter also demonstrates how good leadership skills and competences can lead into significant growth in any business enterprise.  The third chapter analyzes the growth and development of computing knowledge. The emergence of major industry players in computer technology is also elaborated in this chapter. This reinforces the importance of great leadership in the success of a business venture. A collection of individuals with expertise skills and knowledge alongside great leadership have enabled the evolution of computing technology. Competition is also mentioned in this chapter as a major way through which creativity and innovation activat ed.  The fourth chapter explores how positive co-operation can build hope. A case study of President Clinton’s campaign teams has been used to elaborate the importance of collaborating. For instance, Clinton’s campaign teams brought harmonized great minds together for the sole purpose of convincing the Americans that he was the best candidate for presidency. The achievement realized in this collaboration is attributed to proper organization. In addition, excellent leadership skills also played a vital role. These case scenarios highlight the significance of collaborating whenever certain goals have been set to be achieved.Advertising Looking for book review on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The 1960 scientific research project has also been noted as another example of significant achievement that resulted from co-operation among individuals with a common goal. The achievements of this project revolutionized the defense forces in America.  The Manhattan project wasted a lot of talent when it excluded women in executing its functions. This chapter explores how women can play a vital role in the success of business organizations. Moreover, inadequate educational opportunity for women has led to great loss of the talent female population.  The last chapters expound the lessons learned from the case scenarios and how they can be applied in leadership. Various ways through which these lessons can be applied within groups of people have been discussed. The authors assert that the book offers a rich source of information that can be used to guide team work and small groups in organizations.  This final chapter offers general advice on how to guarantee success of a business venture. The authors are quite categorical that managers should hire people who are skilled and talented. The management should also ignore gender bias when recruiting employees. Reference Bennis, W. Biederman, P. W. (1997). Organizing Genius: The Secrets of Creative Collaboration. New York, NY: Addison Wesley Publishing Company.

Caribbean Governance the Impact of the Global Economic Crisis Essay Example

Caribbean Governance the Impact of the Global Economic Crisis Essay Example Caribbean Governance the Impact of the Global Economic Crisis Essay Caribbean Governance the Impact of the Global Economic Crisis Essay ABSTRACT: The importance of an efficient and effective Caribbean in the delivery of economic and social development is a long-standing theme of development policy. This however has not always been the case and the result is a Caribbean repeating past mistakes and compromising in some cases the theme of the development strategy. Global recession has consistently tested the resolve of the Caribbean and to this end there is a need to address the factors that have consistently led to the economic decline of the island states. This paper examines the recent experience of the Commonwealth Caribbean in dealing with the current Global economic crisis with a particular focus on Jamaica, Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago. It begins by examining the signs and the effect on each island. The paper then identifies five key issues that have emerged as factors contributing to and needing the attention of the heads in order to ameliorate against an occurrence in the future: regionalism, integration, transparency and governance are examined as being overarching themes the fundamental problems are dealt with individually within the essay. In each case the background to its contribution to the problem is given along with the solution to the problem. A history examining the recession as a new phenomenon and by extention unprecedented is assessed. The paper concludes by discussing one key dimension of the global economic crisis experience: globalisation and the importance of politics in promoting and sustaining a successful relationship with the rest of the world. The final section sums up the main points. The opinions expressed in this paper are those of the author (Jepter Lorde) and do not necessarily reflect the views of The University of the West Indies Cave Hill Campus or its Board of Directors and/or Board of Governors. It is a fact that the world economy is facing the worst financial crisis since the great depression. It can be argued the crisis is taking place at a time when Caribbean countries are grappling with over arching themes of structural adjustment, transparency and governance as well as globalisation, integration and regionalism issues indicating a Caribbean challenged. It is clear that these reoccurring themes are a reflection of the global economic situation and can threaten to reverse the few gains made by the region in recent years. The general consensus therefore is that the near unprecedented period of national recession currently being experienced in English and non English speaking Caribbean islands should be confronted with bold, swift and concerted actions to reduce the potential negative effects of the crisis on these developing states. ECLAC or The Economic Commission for Latin America and Caribbean clearly articulates five main channels of impact or signs that can serve as lead indicators to the crisis they are financial contagion, excessive external borrowing, and reduction in foreign direct investment, external demand reduction of goods and services, reduced workers’ remittances as well as changes in relative prices (particularly commodity prices). It is the position of this essay that the present situation is not unprecedented, this essay will seek to clearly identify the signs of the crisis and the corollary effects, as previously articulated by ECLAC, while at the same time outlining the factors that account for the exposure of the national state to this current state of affairs. Attention will be paid to three Caribbean islands where the issues are current and dynamic; they are Jamaica, Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago. In order to clearly identify the signs of the crisis it would be intuitive at this time to contextualise the framework within which the essay is structured; the contributing key terms are global recession, crisis and unprecedented. Global recession is widely accepted and can only be confirmed if GDP (Gross Domestic Product) growth is negative for a period of two or more consecutive quarters, by extention a national recession can be defined using the same parameters and be the recipient of a knock on effect attributed to the Global situation (Willis Peterson 2002). A crisis is an end product, manifesting itself after showing signs the organs central to the operation of a system begin functioning erratically; in extreme cases they stop functioning entirely. The result, if the system is to be salvaged, is a slow and painful adjustment. (Barry Eichengreen 2002). External borrowing and the payment of interest rates is not new to the Caribbean and is described by Norman Girvan as being responsible for the single largest movement of money out of the region towards satisfying the myopic, parasitic appetite of an elite imperialist class. This movement has contributed to the perpetual cycle of poverty, dependency and the corollary criminality due to high debt servicing arrangements and the inability of Governments to invest in the social and welfare development of its people, Jamaica therefore is no stranger to this. The lack of good Governance however has lead to a further exacerbation of the condition. In examining good governance and the effect of external borrowing two items of note, the JLP win in 1981 coincided with the election of Ronald Reagan and the Neo-Liberal approach to global economic relations, an ideology the Edward Seaga administration was sympathetic to, the approach signalled not only a change in economic policy direction but also renewed contact between the government of Jamaica and the IMF (Davies 1996). Having articulated a new policy direction the expectation therefore would be a turnaround in the fortunes of the Jamaican economy-this was not to be. The record showed a slowdown in key production sectors of bauxite, agriculture and textiles – to put it bluntly the country was in a worst position than was the case with the former PNP administration after having received more than preferential terms under the JLP administration. One aspect of the relationship was clear; it could not continue (Davies 1996). Clive Thomas offers some insight to the situation, he makes an observation concerning the class relations in the Caribbean but the analysis in the Poor and the Powerless is collectively intuitive, salient and reflective of the relations taking place: â€Å"A fourth observation is that the petty bourgeoisie that presently controls state power is not a homogeneous group, but includes several fractions professionals, political administrative, state-economic, and private and although fractional conflict exists generally, in the absence of an entrenched ruling class, its self-interest leads it to develop closer relations with national private capital. Because of these considerations the state takes on the characteristic of being a state for itself, and in the absence of bourgeois democratic constitutional restraints, it can proceed rapidly to the institutionalization of all forms of corruption. This, we believe, is the central explanatory factor behind the rise of corruption, and the pattern which it has taken in the region, i. e. , it constitutes a means of facilitating the consolidation of an economic base and the enlargement of property held by this class. † The socioeconomic fallout from the association with the International Monetary Fund has stymied the development of the island and as undermined the limited gains made in the post independence era, is the current situation facing Jamaica unprecedented the answer is simply no. The year is 2009 and the incestuous relationship between aspects of the governing elite and unsavoury elements of the society has not so subtly festered to the surface. The JLP is once again in office and scandal of epic proportions has gripped the party with the arrest of Christopher ‘Dudus’ Coke, drug lord, reputed strongman and ‘don’ to the JLP. Horace Campbell Professor of African American and Political studies at Syracuse University had this to say: â€Å"The arrest of Christopher ‘Dudus’ Coke in Kingston has reopened the issues of the use of thugs and gunmen to intimidate the poor in Caribbean. From Mexico to Guyana and from Brazil to Trinidad, gunmen and criminal elements integrated into the cocaine, guns, politics and banking business terrorise the poor and ensure that international capitalism thrives on the backs and bodies of the most oppressed. Dudus had inherited a criminal infrastructure from his father (also known as Jim Brown) that had been organised by politicians to coerce and intimidate the working poor. † The phenomenon of Garrison politics has been around since the 1970 in Jamaica, no doubt having the blessing of the political elite; it has however bought into sharp focus the inability of a Government to govern and to tackle the pressure of a Global and National recession in the face of excessive external borrowing and the filtering of Government funds to support an underworld dominated by gangsters and social parasites. Thirty years later Christopher Coke operates a state within a state funded by Government largesse, patron Clientilism and the sale of illegal drugs. It takes the action of a grand jury in the USA and pressure to be brought to bear on Jamaica’s political elite to expose the attempts made by Prime Minister Bruce Golding to prevent the extradition and his relationship with the Jamaican ‘Don’ by contracting the services of Manatt, Phelps and Phillips to lobby the US Government to discontinue extradition proceedings against ‘Dudus’. While grappling with this the country has found itself in the hands of the IMF to restructure the economy-a familiar refrain. Some seventy three died and prior to this latest embarrassment to the Caribbean hundreds if not thousands dispersed in 1980 in an attempt to settle differences between international capital, the local elite and the lumpenproletariat. Given the present state of affairs it would appear that many more will die but what is more alarming is their lack of knowledge of that fact. The Caribbean and its association to the metropole can be traced back to about five hundred years, from the inception the colonial states were established only to serve the hegemonic and self serving ambitions of a ruling class far removed from the economic deprivation visited upon the inhabitants of the Caribbean. The relationship was brutal and coercive and structured to extract the maximum by way of output while at the same time perpetuating and maintaining constant dependence on the metropole (Eric Williams 1970). Barbados, given its geographic location at the time, had become a victim of the economic structure and showed signs of this during the early stages of the national recession from 1991-1994. The country suffered reduction of foreign direct investment and external demand reduction for goods and services, led by the then DLP administration under the leadership of then Prime Minister Lloyd Erskine Sandiford. This structured economic isolation has its genesis not within the context of a dynamic global economic arena in which Barbados is a contributing player but from a system, long established by the former colonial masters, of Plantation Economy which posits that plantation slavery and specialization in export of primary commodities, in this instance Tourism, has marked the evolution of the societies in which it existed. The plantation economy theorist Lloyd Best explains, â€Å"The legacy of institutions, structures and behaviour patterns of the plantation system are so deeply entrenched that adjustment tends to take place as an adaptation within the bounds of the established framework† (Best 1968, p. 32). The Caribbean economist Norman Girvan contends that the transnational corporation (TNC) is an institution that exists within the â€Å"rules of the game† of the plantation economy. He points out that the historic continuity of foreign ownership, terminal stage of production, limited domestic linkages, repatriation of profits, and persistence of the incalculability of value flows with transfer pricing by TNCs are similar to slave plantation–metropole flows. The tourism product in Barbados resembles exactly the description advanced by Girvan. Undiversified for almost fifty years it depends solely on the England, USA and to a lesser extent Canada for annual tourist arrivals. Major players Hilton, Marriott, Sandy Lane and Four Seasons with the all inclusive package leave most if not all of the spend in the country of origin. Specialist areas within the culinary arts are held by foreign professionals with limited or no transferable skills to local workers. The results are unapologetic; with the fall in investment capital demand as a consequence shifts inward due to the exogenous shock resulting in reduced output in consumption and government spending. With this shortfall in potential output as opposed to actual output unemployment is the result with all of the social ill associated with it. Unprecedented therefore cannot describe the present occurrence because Barbados has experienced it before. The year is 2008 and the Barbados government led once again by the DLP administration has found itself in the unenviable position of managing an economy with reduced output, falling external demand for the mono crop tourism, increase in unemployment and marked increases in criminality as well as reduction in foreign direct investment. This situation has been highlighted by the inability of the country to restart the famed Four Seasons project; it is not difficult to understand the dynamics between International finance capital and local investment. With the impact of the world economic crisis tightening its grip flight of capital was seen as an understood result. The sector depends heavily on the foreign visitor who has stopped travelling, with reduced spend the sector is not seen as attractive by way of investment. The result is a contraction of the industry and the flight of the funds to the metropole of origin the past has once again repeated itself. It is no doubt therefore that civil assignments such as the Four Seasons project valued currently at US five hundred million has been on hold for two years, Merricks Beach Resort and Residence development project unable to secure the funding but also valued at some five hundred million US dollars and the long overdue Bridgetown to Hilton development project are all victims of the dependence on International finance capital and foreign direct investment. These projects are substantial and impact directly on the tourism sector the chief pillar of economic growth to the island. â€Å"It’s outrageous and insane, those crazy prices in Port of Spain†¦. It’s sad, and getting so bad, Oh Lord, capitalism gone mad. This was the cry of the Mighty Sparrow former Calypso King of Trinidad and Tobago in 1983. Prices were described as among the highest in the Caribbean. The latest style from the United States catches on with the unspoken assumption the rest of the Caribbean is be hind the times (Barry et al 1984). An editorial in an Antiguan paper sums up Trinidad at the time: â€Å"Port of Spain is a hustlers paradise, a fair ground with pirates at large, music booming, New York trinkets on the side walk, everybody on a hustle†¦Our diseased and destitute sprawled on the roadsides, our mad directing traffic or otherwise engaging with their demons and quoting the song ‘Capitalism gone mad. † Certainly not the paradise the Caribbean is known for however this clearly shows a Trinidad embracing the negative aspects of both a developed and underdeveloped world. A number of social ills to consider: increased criminality, alienation, decadence and as previously mentioned consumerism of the industrial metropole alongside perpetual poverty, social decay, economic dependence and foreign domination. This essentially summed up what Trinidad had become in the wake of a slump of global oil prices that had once catapulted the island ahead of its regional counterparts (Barry et al 1994). Trinidad had adopted a laid back approach to ownership only seeking tax dollars and production sharing contracts as the basis of relations with the TNC instead of direct ownership of the non renewable. Barry, Wood and Preusch describe the results: â€Å"The in rush of foreign exchange, as a result of petrodollars, into the economy has been largely wasted on lavish import bills rather than transformation of the economy. â€Å"There is no morality left,† wrote one Caribbean commentator. â€Å"It is now a free for all. The paramount value today is money. † The economic expansion ended as prices and demand for oil in global markets retreated. In1982, for the first time in eight years, the country suffered a trade deficit which totaled some two hundred million dollars. Put bluntly by the then Prime Minister George Chambers in the 1983 budget report, â€Å"The fete is over. The reality of a situation having its genesis in the global arena but with contributing factors locally saw the economy and most importantly people of Trinidad suffering then as they do now. The contributing factors are that of transparency and good governance on the part of the then Eric Williams admi nistration and an ethnic and class divide that is the result of the imposition of colonial domination has sought to divide and separate the groups (Harewood and Henry 1988, 1989). Once again another island state and once again precedence is set. The year is 2008 many in the Caribbean depend on the charity of friends and families to supplement incomes as well as to serve as a depository for the hard earned foreign currency. Trinidad and Tobago is no different; two major dynamics are being played out the first is the challenge for developing countries to create economic opportunities for trained nationals and second the marginalization of the said countries as a result of globalisation. The result has seen aging economies such as Canada and Europe attracting younger skilled labor from the Caribbean. For these reasons, it is certain that the phenomenon, that is remittances, will be with us for a long time. In Trinidad for example, these remittances have impacted the economy as they represent, although undocumented at some levels, a proportion of foreign exchange earnings, contributing to an improvement of the standard of living of many Trinidadians and Tobagonians, provide finance for balance of payments support, and aided economic growth and development of the economy (Solas 2001). The Inter American Development Bank has lauded the efforts of the Caribbean in this area, it is in fact one of the instances where the thrift of Caribbean people is put to sound economic use. The analysis does not end there, Solas goes on to make three telling summary observations: The profile of a typical recipient in the State mentioned, is lower to lower-middle income or unemployed persons, the frequency of the remittance also speaks to the vital role it plays. For many households, the remittance is the means by which the basic necessities are met and finally income from offshore investments and migrant capital repatriation are typically handled within the formal banking system which consist of finance and insurance services. If for any reason this process is disrupted for any length of time it could therefore have debilitating consequences for the sender, recipient and the economy. With the advent of CL Financial and a viral form of finance capital establishing itself throughout the Caribbean this option of investment has found favour with local as well as foreign Trinidadians hoping to create wealth within the Caribbean by way of remittances, in 2008 hopes of maintaining that discipline were dashed as CL Financial as well as subsidiaries CLICO and BAICO all declared some level of financial distress of varying proportions and the financial contagion once localized to the United States had arrived in the Caribbean. Norman Girvan Professor Emeritus University of the West Indies gives an analysis: â€Å"What we need to think about is the meaning of the facts that have been disclosed in the statement. What these facts tell us about the state of corporate governance in what was one of Caricom’s largest conglomerates and ‘star performers’ in engaging with globalisation. What they tell us about the gaps in regulation and supervision of financial institutions in individual country jurisdictions, and across Caricom as a whole. And what they tell us about the costs of these defects- in corporate governance and in government regulationto governments and to taxpayers. Trinidad has once again found itself in an undefined position and unable to act with the decisive and determined forcefulness needed to bring to heal the pervasive rot that has encircled the Caribbean, this time from within and compromising at the micro level the immediate well being of its citizens. On examining the iss ues class relations must be of importance as this once again has shown itself resilient and poignant with respect to an explanation of the results direction taken by the present administration led by Prime Minister Kamla Persad Bissessar as opposed the decision taken by the then PNM led by Patrick Manning. Initially the PNM seen as a party representing the interest of the black community positioned a 100% payback on all monies deposited, this is however not the case with the present coalition UNC identified with the ethnic Indian population. The entire picture is very confused, which seems to be deliberate. The two investments made in this situation – firstly, the basic and traditional insurance products such as pensions; life, health and general insurance and secondly, the depositor who was seeking high returns. The pension products offered a 12% rate of return, but the short-term depositors were much higher. The current discussion and argument is actually about the repayment of the depositors, not the traditional insurance policyholders. The fate of the policyholders is often invoked by depositors arguing for the return of their own deposits and that is why the separation between the two, which Winston Dookeran Minister of Finance makes, is so important. To quote â€Å"†¦The number of traditional, long term policyholders affected by this crisis, covering pensions, life and health insurance, is around 225,000 persons and accounts for $6 billion in liabilities†¦Ã¢â‚¬  That is an average of $26,666 per policyholder. Again – â€Å"†¦There are approximately 25,000 customers holding these short term contracts, and the liability to this group is in the region of $12 billion†¦Ã¢â‚¬  That is an average of $480,000 per depositor. It is observed however, the voice of the traditional policyholders, who outnumber the depositors nine-to-one, is silent. But then again, it is clear that by far the greater liability lies with the depositors and further, that they appear, on average at least, to be owed about 18 times more than the typical policyholder. The question must be asked who composes the ordinary shareholder and the answer is intuitive it would be the black working class of Trinidad and Tobago who by assessment by Harewood and Henry dominate the class of citizen in Trinidad unable to own the factors of production, have available to them large tracts of cash and therefore could not invest in dubious short term annuities as depositors. Trinidadians who did not invest are faced with the idea of taxpayers’ funds being used to rescue those who placed bets on high-return deposits it by extention will not end there because if the financial sector is seen as dubious and questionable in its operation then small incremental investors will find alternatives thus impacting the industry overall and GDP. CL Financial chiefs and the depositors are being spared the consequences of their decisions by the bailout process. Afra Raymond concludes by making some telling points of identifying those groups as being differently treated from each other. â€Å"Duprey and his cohorts negotiated a Blank-Cheque Bailout at zero interest, without losing any of their assets. That deal is absolutely unique. Our taxpayers have effectively made a huge single loan (probably the largest in the Region’s history) to the wealthiest individual in the Region at Zero interest virtually every relevant professional body and Civic Society organisation has remained silent on this bold-faced attack on our Treasury. Nothing from the Accountants, Lawyers, Bankers, Economists, Trade Unionists or Religious bodies the one recent exception to this has been the call by the Trinidad Tobago Transparency Institute (TTTI) for investigations into the Angostura disaster. The CL Financial bailout has been cloaked in the robes of benevolence and stability, resulting in a situation which has minimized the floods of lawsuits which would have been confronting some of those responsible parties – Auditors, Attorneys, Company Directors and Officers In reality, the common-wealth of our entire society has been pledged to rescue a fortunate few. The CL Financial bailout is in urgent need of re-negotiation, to say the least, it wrong like a biscuit. † It is a refrain that has haunted the island state for many years and each ime the mistakes of the past are repeated the results are more debilitating, it is therefore necessary for the Caribbean to reassess the position and to chart a new way forward. It wil l be intuitive to examine what was done wrong and implement what can be done right. It is by no means an easy undertaking addressing the problems of the Caribbean these problems are complex and entrenched in the colonial relationship of the past, it is believed however that if the attempt is genuinely made by leaders in the region to engage five key areas of interest the effects of the present global recession and any future business cycle fluctuation can be managed and at the same time reducing the impact on the socially vulnerable groups. CARICOM can be described as the world’s second deepest regional integration scheme and as such set the framework for further structural development with the signing of the revised treaty of Chaguaramas creating the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME). Its mandate sets out the free movement of goods, services, capital and certain categories of skilled labour. It also envisions harmonization and coordination of economic policy and eventually a single currency. While ambitions under the CSME are very high, the institutional structure remains minimal. To a greater extent, the CSME still operates in an intergovernmental framework and as such its relevance to a Caribbean faced with exogenous shocks, the likes of which has the ability to erode decades of hard won gains, should be called into question. The link between economic and political integration remains a contentious issue in a region where failed attempts at political unity still haunts the political landscape and where national sovereignty is guarded suspiciously. Decisions are still made by unanimous voting in both the Heads of Government Conference the highest decision making body- and the Council of Ministers. Even the newly created Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) lacks supranational authority in the form of direct effect of decisions. To date Barbados, Guyana and Antigua are signatories to the court but what is even more scandalous is the location of the court within the twin island of Trinidad and Tobago a non signatory and critic to its establishment. The devil therefore is in the details, the lack of commitment on the part of the leaders has left the Caribbean exposed. If the Caribbean had shown the maturity at the time of the West Indian Federation under the leadership of the then Grantley Adams the community would have been more than able to weather the global economic storm and mitigate against a rise in unemployment and foreign direct investment having forged closer ties under the banner of Integration and regionalism. The reasoning is intuitive; with free movement labour will gravitate to where there is effective demand thus alleviating the pressure where there is no effective demand. This is further buttressed by the industrial and merchant capital in the region being able to plan and invest in sectors in the Caribbean collectively thus spreading the risk and directing investment where it is most needed at preferential interest rates and sharing in the profits. The governance debate in the region is currently in abeyance. The lack of application of sound and consistent standards to the operation of the regions administrative business has prevented its ability to adapt to dynamic changes in the global economic environment. The belief therefore is that it should be revived, this time however in a manner which gives greater prominence to the development dimension and provides a broader interpretation of the elements of good governance (Payne and Sutton 2000). This will mean both more deliberative and purposive action by the state at the national and regional levels and more generally a reconsideration of the role of the state in the region. This brings into focus the Jamaica situation in handling the Coke affair. In so doing, the Commonwealth Caribbean must look beyond what Clive Thomas has described as the post colonial development state and the successor neo-liberal state (Thomas, 1998) to a new form of state with greater CSO involvement, a more supportive public sector and a wider vision, characteristics that are sadly lacking in a Caribbean that should know better given its colonial past and association with self serving hegemonic system. It must also be a more pro-active state, given the generally weak record of the private sector outside of a few enclaves in relatively few countries and the Trinidad and CLICO affair is bought into focus. The company was allowed to grow without regulatory control throughout the Caribbean; excuses were made from Trinidad to Barbados to Bahamas with the result being the disadvantage of the working class in the Caribbean. The key here is to build state capacity in state management and planning in addition to the delivery of more effective and efficient public services to its citizens. In short, the role played by the state in the process of governance is another matter that has to be rethought in every dimension if Commonwealth Caribbean development is to proceed. ( Payne and Sutton 2000) Globalisation is not a new problem to be solved and in as much as it is not new the solutions to the problem are just as illusive now as they were more than five hundred years ago. Indication of such a time line confirm that the Caribbean is in fact no stranger to the concept, the Caribbean has had a longer and more direct relationship with the modern economy than any other peripheral sections of the world. It must be noted that identifiable characteristics derive in large part from the extensity, intensity, velocity and impact of its interactions with the core countries of the world systems over the last five hundred years (Payne and Sutton, 2001: 11-20). It is therefore important that the concept is embraced and the extent to which the embrace is to be made articulated in clear and concise terms to the population. The debate and it must move from the realm of debate if it is to have meaningful impact on the way the Caribbean engages the rest of the world is the concept of Strategic Global Repositioning SGR a formula coined by Richard Bernal, Jamaican ambassador to the USA during most of the 1990s. He advanced this concept in a series of presentations from 1996 onwards, defining it as: a process of repositioning a country in the global economy and world affairs by implementing a strategic medium to long term plan formulated from continuous dialogue of the public service, private sector, academic community and the social sector. It involves proactive structural and institutional transformation (not adjustment) focussed on improvement and diversification of exports and international economic and political relations. Achieving SGR requires changes in both internal and external relations. (Bernal, 2000: 311). It required the following disparate and demanding actions: abandoning the traditional mind-set; diversifying exports; adjusting pro-actively; improving human resources; supplementing the skills pool with overseas nationals; developing strategic corporate alliances; creating a business-facilitating environment; improving physical infrastructure; modernising international marketing; and garnering capital, technology and skills (Bernal, 1996: 7-14). Although a vital role was obviously assigned to a dynamic private sector in this vision, SGR also envisaged an important redefinition of the capacity and purpose of the Caribbean state, with a view to making it more effective and generally bringing it into line with the good governance modalities of the PWC. The concept of SGR unquestionably struck a chord with mainstream Commonwealth Caribbean political leaders and was widely embraced, especially by Owen Arthur, the prime minister of Barbados, who gave it voice in a number of forceful speeches delivered in the latter part of the 1990s (Arthur, 1996; 1999). This lapse in economic prudence has left the island state with little option to attempt stabilization and hope that the global environment to which it is inextricably tied improves. In the preceding sections, the essay has had a long, critical look at the period of national recession, identifying the signs of the crisis and an analysis of the factors that might have caused the exposure of the national state. An important aspect of the discussion was the establishing the possible unprecedented nature of the crisis this was seen as important to give a historical land mark for discussion and a benchmark for future recommendations. These signs are not constrained exclusively to any one state and reflect the economic dynamic taking place at the particular time. ECLAC or the economic commission for Latin America and the Caribbean has been able to give a contextual framework by way of identifying the signs of the crisis and the overarching themes served as a bulkhead of both reasons for the crisis and possible solutions for the future. The essay to some extent has tried as well to draw a quantitative picture of the extent and nature of the crisis impact with reference to the research of Harewood and Davies and to a lesser extent Raymond. The signs as articulated by ECLAC begin with, the major findings from the existing literature nothing new to the Caribbean, the issues of financial contagion, excessive external borrowing, and reduction in foreign direct investment, external demand reduction of goods and services, reduced workers’ remittances as well as changes in relative prices (particularly commodity prices). First and foremost, in spite of differences in the vantage points chosen and the theoretical constructs utilised to explain these phenomenon interested observers generally grant that the underlying forces dictating progress in the Caribbean or lack thereof has had a strong element from within. Evidence was presented of failed IMF bailouts, ineffectual administrations, and questionable governance issues. It should be no surprise that academic within and without the Diaspora have raised their voices in opposition. In assessing the signs the positions taken by Davies and Thomas with respect of the class system brings into focus how Caribbean treat to each other and its contribution to the undermining of economic development. Where does the analysis lead by way of conclusion? The essay drew attention at the outset to the importance of Bernals argument about the Commonwealth Caribbeans need for strategic global repositioning, but argued that his formulation of this conception had not been given sufficient critical scrutiny within the region and thus remained underdeveloped intellectually and politically. We identified competitiveness, diplomacy and governance as the formative elements of SGR and have sought in this study to take the debate about SGR forward by working through in turn the key issues that arise in relation to these three policy agendas. They manifestly constitute the most pressing, and intractable, aspects of the Commonwealth Caribbeans current development problematic (Bernal 1996). They also feed off each other in a series of ways that have been repeatedly highlighted. : Eichengreen, Barry,. Financial Crises and What to Do about Them: New York, Oxford University Press, 2002. Peterson, L Willis,. Principles of Economics: IL 60430, Irwin Homewood, 199. Davies, Omar. 1986. The Debt problem in Jamaica: situation and solutions. Mona, Jamaica: University of the West Indies, Dept. of Economics. Thomas, Y Clive. The Poor and the Powerless: Economic Policy and Change in the Caribbean London: Latin America Bureau, 1988) Williams, Eric, Capitalism ; slavery: Chapel Hill, Univers ity of North Carolina Press, 1944. Best, Lloyd. , The mechanisms of plantation-type economies: outlines of a model off pure plantation economy, Social and Economic Studies 17 (3): 283-323. Barry et al. The Other Side of Paradise. New York: Grove Press, Inc 1984. Harewood Henry.. Inequality in a post-colonial society :Trinidad and Tobago, St. Augustine, Trinidad : Institute of Social and Economic Research, The University of the West Indies. | | Payne and Sutton, Repositioning the Caribbean within Globalisation 2001: 11-20 Bernal, Richard. Strategic Global Repositioningand Future Economic Development in Jamaica, North-South Agenda Papers, no. 18, Dante B. Fascell North-South Center University of Miami. TITLE: â€Å"We are currently experiencing a near unprecedented period of national recession in almost every English Speaking Caribbean country. † Clearly identifying the signs of the crisis, what factors in your informed view account for the exposure of the national state to thi s current state of affairs? NAME: Jepter Y Lorde COURSE NAME: Caribbean Governance 1 COURSE NO. : GOVT 3017 INSTRUCTOR: Cynthia Barrow-Giles UNIVERSITY: University of the West Indies Cave Hill Campus. DATE: 1st November 2011.