Character Analysis of Shylock from The Merchant of Venice

William Shakespeares The Merchant of Venice is a classic play that has also brought about some issues revolving around the antagonist of the story Shylock. The purpose of this essay is to discuss the character of Shylock in the play and also introduce the uses of that name throughout history down to the present day. Shylock in Shakespeares work is a money lending Jew who pursues money with strong vigor and attachment. Shylock is also portrayed as literally bloodthirsty as he demands punishment of mutilation as retribution for delinquency. Shylock is not portrayed very well in this story as he is duped in the end and eventually his owed debt is erased by the court as he exits in shame and defeat. Understanding the character of Shylock requires some knowledge about the history of money lending and the term usury. Usury is the practice of charging interest when lending money. This practice was usually despised throughout history beginning with Jesus throwing his fit in the temple in protest of this practice. The morality of practicing usury is certainly debatable, but what is not in dispute, is the tendency for people of Jewish heritage to become involved in this practice. Shakespeares Shylock was indeed based on truth, Jews have a history of dominating the banking and financial sectors of society. This trend certainly continues today. Many Jewish individuals are at the top of the ladder in the leading financial firms of today. Companies such as Goldman Sachs, JPShow MoreRelatedThe Merchant of Venice939 Words   |  4 PagesContrast of Shylock and Claudius Introduction This essay looks into the lives of Shylock and Antonio. These are two of Shakespearean antagonists of all time. They are alike in more ways than one. Shylock in Merchant of Venice is a Jewish moneylender based in Venice. He has been tormented and repressed mainly by the Christian population. One finds it easy to sympathize with him mainly because he has his own reasons to be loathing, greedy, and miserly. This ends up making the entire ‘Merchant of Venice’Read MoreRacism And Prejudice By William Shakespeare s The Merchant Of Venice Essay1699 Words   |  7 Pagesreligion and what they believe in, however there is racism and prejudice present in the world. William Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice is one of his most controversial plays. Written in the 16th century England, the play poses many questions concerning racial, religious and human differences due to anti-semitism being very common at the time. The story is set in Venice where a merchant named Antonio lived. His poor friend Bassanio wants to charm and marry a lovely, rich girl of Belmont called PortiaRead MoreWilliam Shakespeare s The Merchant Of Venice2059 Words   |  9 Pagesin The Merchant of Venice resembles a folktale known as â€Å"A Pound of Flesh† (325). Artese supports his supposition with background context and parallels between the two story lines. Literary versions of the pound of flesh story circulated during the sixteenth century and were collected since the nineteenth century because of the plot’s longevity and populairity Shakespeare would have been familiar with pound of flesh stories (326). Human commodification is a central issue in both The Merchant of VeniceRead MoreWilliam Shakespeare s The Merchant Of Venice989 Words   |  4 PagesThe Play Analysis of The Merchant of Venice The Merchant of Venice is one of Shakespeare Comedy’s published in the First Folio. (McDonald 212) This analysis will review the written work of the play and the production from the Sweet Tea Shakespeare Theater Group. An overview on a few on the main stories within the play: the animosity in the relationship between Antonio the merchant and Shylock the Jewish moneylender, the courtship of Bassanio and Portia, and the secret eloping of Jessica and LorenzoRead MoreMerchant of Venice - Plot Structure1714 Words   |  7 Pagesof ‘The Merchant of Venice is apparently fanciful but in reality exactingly structured./b/center br brThe Merchant of Venice is a fairy tale. There is no more reality in Shylocks bond and the Lord of Belmonts will than in Jack and the Beanstalk. brH. Granville-Barker, in Prefaces to Shakespeare. br brThis is one way of looking at the play, reading it or enjoying the performance. But it can be a contradiction to our actual feelings about this complex play. ‘The Merchant of VeniceRead More Shakespeares Presentation of Shylock in The Merchant of Venice831 Words   |  4 PagesShakespeares Presentation of Shylock in The Merchant of Venice This essay is an analysis of how the character of Shylock, in the play The Merchant of Venice, is presented to the audience, by Shakespeare, in different ways. The riveting play shows the best and worst aspects of human nature and contains one of Shakespeares most reviled, complex and compelling characters. Love and romance end this play, yet before that come bigotry, racism, hatred, death threats andRead MoreMerchant Of Venice Essay Outline956 Words   |  4 Pages The Merchant of Venice Essay Outline Introduction: Hook: The theme is the main subject or message of a story. It is used to give depth and enhance the plot. The themes of The Merchant of Venice are used throughout the story of the play to make the plot move along and to encourage the characters into action. Bridge: When you read The Merchant of Venice by William Shakespeare there are many themes throughout the play and many lessons to be learned. Main Ideas: The most important themes are hatredRead MoreIs Shylock The Villain Or Victim In The Merchant Of Venice By William Shakespeare1411 Words   |  6 PagesCharacter Analysis Shylock Is Shylock the villain or the victim in the Merchant of Venice? In the play the ‘Merchant of Venice’ by William Shakespeare the antagonist Shylock is both the victim and the villain. Shylock is a Jewish moneylender and is initially portrayed as anger filled and bloodthirsty but as the play continues we begin to see him as more human and his emotions become more evident. As the antagonist, Shylock is a fearful adversary to Antonio, the protagonist. But as good begins toRead MoreAnalysis of The Merchant of Venice Essay513 Words   |  3 PagesAnalysis of The Merchant of Venice William Shakespeares play The Merchant of Venice is based on a simple enough plot, but it gives a more complex view of the characters involved. It portrays each characters attitude, opinions and actions and shows how they affect the other characters. ====================================================================== Shylock is perhaps the most noteworthy character. He is centred on most of the plays events. Throughout theRead MoreLiterary Criticism Of William Shakespeare s The Merchant Of Venice 850 Words   |  4 Pagesanalyze all other disciplines associated with the play in question. Some have also criticized Shakespeare as being a master of only one single genre of drama as in relation to other plays. Feminist criticism Feminist approach applied to the Merchant of Venice is relatively a new area of study. The fundamental idea is that the western world is entirely patriarchal (created, ruled, and viewed through the eyes of men) (Janik 170). During the 1960s, the movement began to form a new approach of criticizing

Edgar Allan Poe - A Complicated and Disturbing Author Essay

Poe is a very complicated author. His literary works are perplexed, disturbing, and even grotesque. His frequent illnesses may have provoked his engrossment in such things. In 1842 Dr. John W. Francis diagnosed Poe with sympathetic heart trouble as well as brain congestion. He also noted Poes inability to withstand stimulants such as drugs and alcohol (Phillips 1508). These factors may have motivated him to write The Tell-Tale-Heart, The Cask of Amontillado, and The Black Cat. All of these stories are written in or around 1843, shortly after Poe became afflicted. His writing helped him to cope with his troubles and explore new territory in literature. Poes interest in the supernatural, retribution, and perverse cause them to be included†¦show more content†¦This can be related to the ever-looming question of why people become afflicted with disease. Is it punishment for wrongdoing? Some religions find this to be the answer. Poes intrigue in reincarnation may have been in tha t of his own immortality. Metaphysical events take place in The Tell-Tale-Heart. The perpetrator is driven by some unknown source to reveal his evil deed. The paranoia he feels is very real to him. I fancied a ringing in my ears†¦[it] became more distinct†¦I found that the noise was not within my ears†¦It is the beating of the hideous heart [of the old man] (Poe 3). Ringing is heard only in the mans head, but because a impetus has compelled him to believe otherwise he is inclined to reveal his misdeed. The source of the mans voices is from a force within himself. Ones soul is an unexplainable power, which governs over the body. The murder of the old man is committed in passion. Disregarding any rational thoughts the narrator is engaged in his own desires. His unconcern for mankind causes his own insanity. Even he can not live with his actions. The mind as a supernatural force, that dictates life, can only cope with so much. Poe himself experiences hallucinations from his illness, and abuse of alcohol. Years of defilement caused his body, and mind to break down. At one point in time Poe raved †¦for protection from an imaginary army of conspirators disguised as loungersShow MoreRelatedA Life Of Misery Becomes Misery As Literature1859 Words   |  8 PagesLiterature: The Influence of Edgar Allan Poe Stefan de la Cotera Ms. Lee; Cubby E12 AP American Lit. Lang. Period 8 April 2015 A Life of Misery becomes Misery as Literature: The Influence of Edgar Allan Poe Dark, haunting, and eerie novels don’t sound like the staple for a famous American Novelist, but Edgar Allan Poe helped change American literature as it is by centering his novels, short stories, and poems around these points. Edgar Allan Poe was an American author, poet, editor, and literaryRead MoreAnalysis of A Dream Within a Dream by Edgar Allen Poe Essay850 Words   |  4 Pages ‘A Dream Within A Dream’ was written by Edgar Allan Poe on 1849, the year that he was found dead because of substance abuse. Considering that the author had gone through many hard times throughout his life with the loss of his beloved ones, this poem might refer to the emotional pain he suffered that let him to question the reality of life. The poem is written in despair as the tone is a mixture of mystery, loneliness and despair. The poem deals with the speaker’s troubling idea that reality isRead MoreAnalysis Of Edgar Allan Poe s The Raven Essay3338 Words   |  14 Page sIntroduction Edgar Allan Poe was an American author, poet, editor, and literary critic, also considered the part of the American Romantic Movement. He is best known for his short tales of mystery and macabre. Poe was one of the earliest American practitioners of the short story, and is generally considered as the inventor of the detective fiction genre. He was the first well known American writer who was known for trying to earn his living by writing, resulting in a financially difficult life andRead More Biography of Edgar Allan Poe Essay11890 Words   |  48 PagesBiography of Edgar Allan Poe Edgar Allan Poe was born at 33 Hollis Street, Boston, Mass., on January 19, 1809, the son of poverty stricken actors, David, and Elizabeth (born Arnold) Poe. His parents were then filling an engagement in a Boston theatre, and the appearances of both, together with their sojourns in various places during their wandering careers, are to be plainly traced in the play bills of the time. Paternal Ancestry The father ofRead More Allegory, Symbolism, and Madness – Comparing the Demons of Edgar Allan Poe and Nathaniel Hawthorne3842 Words   |  16 PagesMadness – Comparing the Demons of Edgar Allan Poe and Nathaniel Hawthorne As contemporaries of each other, Edgar Allan Poe and Nathaniel Hawthorne endeavored to write about man’s dark side, the supernatural influence, and moral truths. Each writer saw man as the center-point in his stories; Poe sees man’s internal struggle as madness, while Hawthorne sees man as having a â€Å"secret sin.† Each had their reasons for writing in the Gothic format. Poe was not a religious man; he was wellRead MoreImpact of Science on Society38427 Words   |  154 Pagesinvention to that of expected future scientific advances. The papers are edited transcripts of these speeches. Since the talks were generally given extemporaneously, the papers are necessarily informal and may, therefore, differ in style from the authors’ more formal works. As the included audience questions illustrate, the topic raises far-reaching issues and concerns serious aspects of our lives and future. Donald P. Hearth Former Director NASA Langley Research Cente r 111 ... Contents ForewordRead MoreImpact of Science on Society38421 Words   |  154 Pagesinvention to that of expected future scientific advances. The papers are edited transcripts of these speeches. Since the talks were generally given extemporaneously, the papers are necessarily informal and may, therefore, differ in style from the authors’ more formal works. As the included audience questions illustrate, the topic raises far-reaching issues and concerns serious aspects of our lives and future. Donald P. Hearth Former Director NASA Langley Research Center 111 ... Contents

3D Printing Mars Mission

Question: Discuss about the3D Printingfor Mars Mission. Answer: 3D printing has rapidly evolved the aviation, safety and automotive industries and has created a revolution on cost, time and result of production to a maximum level. I am going to present you examples that will highlight the potential of 3D printing and define its market demand. As your esteemed organization uses the 3D printing for developing delicate engineering structure and complex geometric modules for mechanical and automotive industry, I would like to provide you few cases that outline the market opportunity of 3D printing. NASA uses CATIA to develop the structural components of the vehicle prototype that is targeted to go for a Mars mission. The vehicle prototype is the size of a Hummer containing a pressurized chamber. I am not asking you to build a rocket ship category vehicle but if your esteemed organization develops 3D printing technology to produce bicycle frames it would be a great success as it will reduce manpower and increased rate of production and you can target the bicycle manufacturing firms. Advanced Contrast Imaging System Technology is another manufacturing organization of injections that are used for studying human body. Their new product EmpowerCTA injection system contains around 35 3D printed modules. Thus if your organization manufactures similar complex components for other medical units, it might create a sustainable market. Rietveld Architects LLP., another renowned organization creates 3D printing models to brief their customers regarding their products. It is an excellent opportunity as engineering civil drawings can be easily drafted using AutoCAD, analyzed using STAAD.pro and finally converted to CATIA and printed easily. Thus, the organization can make profit by selling those architectural miniature-building prototypes to contractors and construction firms. Robert Seuffer GmbH and Co. KG, a producer of electronic components uses 3D printing for producing switches, appliances, vehicles and automobiles parts. Thus, I suggest to tap into the potential market and create a simplified software so that instead of CATIA, common people are able to create their design and use it when required such as fix a broken dishwasher or wheels when required. I also recommend using 3D printing to repair damaged tissues due to injury and accidents in which the delicate tissues are ruptured and can only be replaced by fiber material of the 3D printer. I also recommend using 3D printing for replacing broken tissues as the dimensions are easy to adjust and can be accurately detailed using computer software. Bone scaffolds when printed using 3D printing will also allow replicating models of ears, nose, lips or any other body parts that can be used as precise cosmetic surgery replacement using coated cells that are fully functional; to multiply and grow. Thus, the bottom line is if your esteemed organization uses the 3D printing technology into medical, engineering, automotive and healthcare sectors, you can tap into a sustainable and potential market of extreme profit. I also recommend using special encrypted software and a different materials rather than the waterproof material used by 3D printer so that the technology is not replicated. Moreover, it should also be kept in mind so that common people are not allowed to use the software for commercial purpose.

What are the most important components of an effective high performance work system

Introduction Organizational performance remains a major concern among managers and business owners around the world. As a result, there is a continuous change in the manner in which certain things are done by the management to maintain good and competitive performance. Nevertheless, it is argued that the creation of a high performance work system is undoubtedly a significant approach in augmenting organizational change.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on What are the most important components of an effective high performance work system? specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Although various strategies have been adopted by different organizations around the world, it is double noting that there are effective components of high performance work system shared across companies and organizations. This research essay explores these effective components which have been applauded by scholars and business experts in defining org anization performance. To achieve this objective, a wide range of sources have been consulted including but not limited to authentic books, journals and online articles to have a wide spectrum of arguments. For better comprehension of the concept, the analysis draws some ideas and conclusions from the human resource management of Vodafone. High Performance Work System What is high performance work system? Many researchers agree that the concept of high performance work system can be viewed from a wider perspective, allowing several definitions. However, all these definitions narrow down to the involvement of employees in management and day-to-day running of the business. High performance work system can therefore be defined as a set of management approaches within an organization which give employees higher responsibilities and involvement. According to Armstrong (2011, p. 155), high performance work system usually sets out the intentions of a company on the best ways to achieving a competitive advantage through the improvement of individuals’ performance within the organization. Such a system further spells out the exact process of ensuring that the aspirations defined by the organizations are attained. Of importance however is the fact that all these efforts are geared towards augmenting employee knowledge, flexibility, commitment and skills. This understanding is important in selection of effective components which would result into the creation of an environment which promotes employee participation and good performance (Armstrong, 2008, p. 116). As discussed below, a high performance work system comprises of:Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Participation of employees in decision making Training Employee motivation and incentives Technological advancements Respect Creation of a goal-oriented environment among others Employee Participation Employees play a major role in the overall performance of any organization in the world. As a result, many companies like Vodafone which have gained pinnacle global recognition put more emphasis on excellent human resource management. Moreover, the ability of a company to involve its employees in decision making is considered a major ingredient for not only good performance but also in promoting a high performance work system (Armstrong, 2008, p. 117). According to researchers, employees who get involved in decision making by the management get motivated and develop a positive attitude towards work and remain focused on achieving set goals and objectives. It is also a source of empowerment to workers as they end up feeling part of the management (Armstrong, 2008, p. 117). Although managers understand the need for employee involvement in organization management, implementation of this component remains a major task. The manner in which employees are involved in the process significan tly determines its impact on the entire organization. As a way of ensuring that employees remain part of organizational management, their involvement in parallel suggestion is highly considered. This involvement allows managers to incorporate the views of the entire workforce in making final decisions and strategies for better performance (Armstrong, 2011, p. 157). Additionally, allowing employees to participate in job-related processes motivates them, thus closing the leadership gap which may exist between the management and the workforce. Training For employees to perform their duties effectively, relevant knowledge and skills cannot be overlooked. Although this may seem obvious since companies assume that employees get hired when they are already competent, customized training is quite significant. Besides promoting effective performance of duties within an organization, training further imparts employees with technical skills which could give them a chance to take up other highe r responsibilities within the organization. Consequently, employees get inspired to aim for higher leadership roles by being in possession of required skills and expertise (Armstrong, 2011, p. 157). Through these training programs, employees are able to have a wider range of skills which are necessary for not only performing a single task but also to engage in other duties aimed at promoting good performance. This understanding of organizational roles allows employees to deliver within the shortest time thus saving on resources like time. Lastly, training reduces the risk of employees from being involved in accidents emanating from lack of technical knowhow and skills. This is common in production firms where machines and chemical processes make the basis of production.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on What are the most important components of an effective high performance work system? specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn M ore Rewards and Incentives Another approach through which organizations promote high performance work system is through recognition of employee achievements and efforts. With existing variation in the productivity of employees, it is equally important for managers to identify individual and group efforts demonstrated by employees within the government. By monitoring regular performance results, it would be easy but extremely useful to appreciate outstanding performance among employees without partiality. There is always need for organizations to associate its remuneration with performance in order to motivate their employers to focus on the realization of both organizations and individual benefits (Dubrin, 2011, p. 254). Notably, there are countless incentives which could be considered as a way of creating a high performance work system depending on the nature of the organization. They may include stock options, sharing of company profits; pay hikes, bonuses in cases where perform ance targets have been achieved and money. It has been observed that a number of organizations like Vodafone employ such approaches in motivating their employees. Equivalently, non-monetary options have been considered by other organizations as a way of promoting high performance work systems. These options include special employee benefits, time offs and flexible time (Dubrin, 2011, p. 255). It is clear that these efforts augment environmental flexibility for employees who may find time to attend to other personal issues when they are away from work. This increases motivation among workers through self satisfaction and by feeling a sense of concern from managers. Free time could also be utilized by employees to advance their careers through part time studies. Technology With the advancement in technology, many organizations have considerably changed their operations in order to meet the demands of the market and promote efficiency among employees. Besides promotion of productivity, technology is viewed as a key component of high performance work system. It is a major driving exercise which has led to summit performance among companies like Vodafone in recent years with its expansion taking the centre stage for most organizations in every part of the world. Among other ways in which technology transforms organizational performance is through facilitation of communication and sharing of information (Dubrin, 2011, p. 254).Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Managers and employees are able to effectively communicate and make decisions promptly through a communication infrastructure that is necessary. A part from allowing smooth flow of information, it can further be argued that a well established communication infrastructure results into a high performance work system. How can an organization perform without good communication? Any breakdown in communication of an organization broadens the gap among employees and employee-employer relationships. Based on the fundamental role played by technology, its integration in the daily operations of a company is quite essential. For organizations which may have complicated production processes and procedures, adoption of certain technological techniques could be important in promotion of employee efficiency and flexibility (Creating High-Performance Work Systems, n.d., p. 1). As a result, managers are tasked to identify existing technological needs and address them in order to develop a competitiv e advantage within the market and motivate its employees. With the role played by technology being considered to be immense, there is no doubt that any management has to appreciate the challenges which arise. Technology comes with challenges and costs which have to be incurred by individual organizations before its integration is implemented (Creating High-Performance Work Systems,.d., p. 1). Problem Solving To achieve a high performance work system, there is every need for companies to establish mechanism to handle everyday challenges. Work problems are normal and part of the running of an organization. However, the manner in which such challenges are handled has a significant impact on the performance of the entire working environment. A high performance work system therefore advocates for preparedness by having operating procedures which have to be followed in addressing particular issues (Ramsay, Scholarios Harley, 2000, p. 505). It is further important to reiterate the incompa rable role of good communication in problem solving. By establishing these channels, suggestions among stakeholders can easily be realized and communicated to employees before a situation gets out of hand. Respect An effective working environment comprises of managers and employees who hold and value respect for each other. Although many people focus on the respect between employees and managers alone, this recognition is equally significant among managers and employees. Respect among employees allows each to see other’s responsibility as important as any other. It eliminates managers from despising junior employees of the organization by promoting mutual existence within the working system (Ramsay, Scholarios Harley, 2000, p. 504). Respect promotes the virtue of cooperation towards the realization of set goals and objectives. Many of the employees are able to embrace a sense of obligation to a given organization in enhancing a friendly working atmosphere necessary for inten ded successful results. Based on the above analysis of the components of an effective high performance work system, it is more evident that the need to implement such a plan is inevitable especially in order to realize profitable performance within an organization. Many of the major organizations like Vodafone have significantly implemented these plans, causing them to rise to globally recognized peak levels. With Vodafone as a model organization, it is important to understand how the company has worked towards promoting of a high performance work system in the telecommunication industry. Vodafone Vodafone is one of the leading telecommunication companies in not only the United Kingdom but also across the world. This is measured by its annual revenues and the total number of customers who place it at second position after China Mobile (Hill, 2011). With its operations extending in more than twenty countries around the world, Vodafone continues to thrive in the market due to several factors which favor it. The company has for long remained committed to winning customers through their sustainable strategy which promotes ethical behavior, honesty and responsibility. Additionally, reduction of environmental effect drives its operation making it outstanding among other telecommunication companies. The achievement of credibility within a competitive market has been of great significance. Although these efforts have been mainly towards its success, the company has also promoted a high performance work system for its employees. Ethical Environment Vodafone employees operate in an honest working environment which has been nurtured by the company’s top leadership since its inception in the year 1982. By operating in this honest environment, employees are motivated to be devoted towards service delivery in an ethical and disciplined manner. This eliminates cases of unethical practices like bribery and corruption (Shetty, 2011). Upholding ethical business strategie s further promotes respect among Vodafone employees and managers. Managers have nurtured the art of respecting each other and leading other employees practically. Its honest history has also played a key role in winning customers through customer satisfaction through strategies which seek to establish better connection with its customers. Through surveys and feedback analysis from customers, the company prides in a massive loyalty of customers within the telecommunications industry. Training of Vodafone Employees Another important component of an effective high performance work system employed by Vodafone is training of its employees. The company holds high value for its employees, an approach which has led to the training of most of its employees in order to meet the challenges and demands of the telecommunications market. This training further aims at ensuring that every employee achieves his or her full potential in terms of service delivery and efficient productivity (Shetty, 20 11). Through continuous training programs, Vodafone Group has created a workforce that embraces diversity in skills and cultures to operate around the world. Training of employees has highly been enhanced by the establishment of a Learning Academy which offers instant solutions for learning and advancement solutions. IT Incorporation Besides an ethical environment and training of its employees, Vodafone has identified technology to be a major requirement for its global operations. Information Technology has helped the Group to gain a competitive advantage platform in the market through effective business operations which solely targets employee efficiency and customer satisfaction. This has been considered as one of the strategies of achieving set objectives. IT capabilities within the company further allow employees to have access to learning services within the company’s intranet. With a variety of online courses for the employees, advancement within Vodafone workface is hi ghly encouraged to meet the needs of employees in order to serve in other involving capacities. To address IT needs, the company has adopted cloud computing which is vital in sharing of data globally through wireless connection of personal computers. Conclusion Based on the above effective components of a high performance work system and the manner in which Vodafone Group has fully implemented these strategies, it suffices to say that a good working environment has far reaching benefits. As a matter of fact, the above effective components support the need to motivate employees in any given organization and environment (Jeffrey, 1995, p. 29). Employees who are involved in decision making, well paid, trained for new tasks and equipped with technology to meet upcoming challenges get motivated to work productively for the success of the company. It is however important to appreciate the fact that every component can be adopted depending on the existing organizational demands. It remains the role of managers to have strategies in place which should be implemented in order to achieve intended objectives. Of significance is the importance to have a harmonious relationship between the management and employees. Through a good communication and employee motivation approaches, there need not be a communication gap that may hinder company growth. Nevertheless, recognition of employee should be emphasized through a scheme which gauges employee performance. Besides inspiring employees to have a positive attitude towards their job and perform better, employee incentives create performance competition within the company. This competition is quite important in ensuring that employees give their best in terms of their abilities and skills. In addition, an understanding of the organizational culture is essential in adopting a list of components to be incorporated in the strategic plan (Armstrong, 2011, p. 165). As such, any high performance work system has to be inclined to the culture of the company. References Armstrong, M., 2008. Strategic Human Resource Management: A Guide to Action. London, UK: Kogan Page. Armstrong, M., 2011. Armstrong’s Handbook of Strategic Human Resource Management. London, UK: Kogan Page. Creating High-Performance Work Systems., n.d. Creating High-Performance Work Systems. Web. Dubrin, A., 2011. Essentials of Management. New York, NY: Cengage Learning. Hill, S., 2011. Vodafone case study. Web. Jeffrey, K., 1995. High Performance Work Systems and Firm Performance. 118 Monthly Lab. Rev. 29. Ramsay, H, Scholarios, D Harley, B., 2000. Employees and High-Performance Work Systems: Testing inside the Black Box. British Journal of Industrial Relations. 38:4 December 2000. pp. 501-531. Shetty, N., 2011. Leadership Style at Vodafone. Web. This essay on What are the most important components of an effective high performance work system? was written and submitted by user Abbie D. to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Homosexuality and Single-Sex Schools

Homosexuality and Single-Sex Schools Unfortunately, for many American students, insults and accusations are part of everyday life. All to often, students, as young as elementary school, are faced with criticism and judgment from their peers, and despite great efforts by many, there are still people in our country who are not the diverse, tolerant people wed like to surround ourselves with on a daily basis. This unfortunate truth means that some students look elsewhere to find supportive and welcoming environments for their middle and high school educations. This is where private school comes into play, as many private schools embrace the many facets of diversity that exist within students, creating vibrant communities unlike what most high school students embrace. However, there is debate among many about the role of single-sex schools when it comes to homosexuality. While some believe that schools that cater to just one gender provide a supportive place for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) students, others believe that these schools  have a hidden side effect: they promote homosexuality. Scientific Studies Surprisingly, there are few scientific studies available to provide conclusive evidence, but no limit to personal opinions. The debate topics include whether or not single-sex schools promote gender stereotypes, if homosexuality is learned or genetic and, particularly, how single-sex schools may impact students if it homosexuality is, in fact, learned. Debate.com has a page dedicated to whether or not single-sex schools promote homosexuality. The outcome of those who have contributed to date shows a majority of debaters (59 percent) feel that single-sex schools do not promote homosexuality. Many single-sex school graduates claim that their experiences, be it high school or even college, were empowering and helped them grow as individuals. Others agree, but say that they discovered their gender identity in that environment because it was the first time they were allowed to experience something different than the stereotypes they grew up with of only male-female couples being acceptable. Unfortunately, for many children stereotypes are all they see in their daily lives and become what they understand simply because they are not exposed to diverse views. Most certainly, no child wants to be intimidated or ostracized simply because they are different. These difference sometimes mean that students are subject to bullying by peers who dont understand or accept them, and these actions can be especially harsh when adults look the other way or are not present. While some claim that single-sex schools promote gender stereotypes, others adamantly disagree, stating that the single-sex school breaks down the stereotypes and better educates students on a more diverse set of viewpoints. The Value of an Open and Affirming Culture What many people dont know is that boys and girls schools often  play to the strengths of students. These open and affirming cultures can provide better support, counseling, and education, empowering students to embrace who they are more than ever. When students can walk around their school community openly without fear of discrimination or bullying, they are able to grow as individuals and achieve more success. Both boys and girls have to deal with their sexuality, understanding their feelings and inclinations mean and how to handle them. If they havent thought of it themselves, the American entertainment industry will certainly put all those gender debates and discussions right under their noses. What any good private school is able to do is to provide some serious mentoring and discussion of issues like teenage sexuality. The tightly wrapped sense of community which most of these schools have makes young people feel comfortable discussing these and other issues. Teens are under enormous stress under normal conditions. Add to the mix worries about sexuality and grades and you potentially have a recipe for extreme measures of dealing with the stress. For some, this can lead to eating disorders, cutting, or even suicide. Heed the warning signs, no matter how insignificant you think they may be, and talk to someone if there are concerns about the physical, mental, or emotional health of a child. If students feel as though they cannot confront their classmates, they should alert an adult and make sure she follows through. Supporting a peer struggling with an issue often means going against their wishes to deal with issues privately in favor of getting help from a qualified individual.   Edited by Stacy Jagodowski

Free Essays on American Airlines

american airlines By: helen kninich Helen Khinich Individual Project Outline: American Airlines Introduction: American Airlines is the biggest airline in the United States since 1991. American Airlines was pioneer in many fields gaining competitive and advantage over the other airlines. American has also pioneered several policies including that affected the industry’s structure and standard practices. In the 1960’s, American introduced the first computerized reservation system, revolutionizing the marketing and distribution of the travel industry. In 1977, they introduced â€Å"the super saver† fares, which was the first program of discounts for leisure travelers and in 1981, they launched the first frequent-flier program. AMR, the parent company for American Airlines, has a number of businesses within its corporate structure including: American Airlines whose success is rooted in the airline’s greatest asset – its people, all 101,706 of them. In the rapidly changing markets where Am erican competes in the United States and abroad, American Eagle which was established in 1984 as American Airlines' regional airline affiliate. The American Eagle network is the largest regional airline system in the world, with over 1,400 flights a day to more than 101 cities throughout the United States, Canada, The Bahamas and the Caribbean. AA Cargo, a division of American Airlines, which provides more than 14 million pounds of daily lift capacity to major cities in Europe, Canada, Mexico the Caribbean, Central and South America, Asia and throughout the United States. Through cooperative interline agreements, AA Cargo can transport shipments to virtually any country in the world. Manufacturing A Severe Manufacturing Problem: Flight 587 crashed last November and investigation determined that it was due to mechanical failure, as if September 11th didn’t scare the people enough. There were other problems with this Airbus A300 prior to this ... Free Essays on American Airlines Free Essays on American Airlines Introduction The National Transportation Board has recommended to the Federal Aviation Administration that all FAR Part 121, 125, and 135 passenger-carrying aircraft be equipped with cockpit video recorders, cockpit voice recorders and digital flight data recorders (Rimmer, 2000). The use of flight data information has been very useful to the National Transportation Safety Board for solving countless aircraft accidents and mishaps. The recent surge for the upgraded equipment, especially the cockpit video recorders, stems from the crashes of ValuJet Flight 592 in the Florida Everglades, Swissair Flight 111, which crashed off the coast of Halifax, and more recently the EgyptAir 990 crash (â€Å"Safety Board Favors Cameras For Cockpits,† 2000). The current equipment used in the aircraft today is the Cockpit Voice Recorder and the Flight Data Recorder. The cockpit voice recorder records the radio transmissions between the pilots and the air traffic controllers who guide the planes to their des ignated areas in the air and on the ground. The cockpit voice recorder also records the sounds inside the cockpit between pilots, stall warning signals, engine noise, landing gear extension and retraction, weather briefs, and any other abnormal noises (Barker, 1999). The flight data recorder monitors certain parameters of the actual airplane such as the altitude, airspeed, compass heading, vertical acceleration and time (Maharry, 2000). Definition The National Transportation Safety Board wants to upgrade existing flight data recorders and implement cockpit video recorders for safety reasons and to help solve commercial airline crashes. The airline pilots are against the idea of the cockpit recorders due to the fact that they will be on camera at all times and feel that this is a breach of privacy and the film could be leaked to the media (Sher, 2000). Affected Principles The National Transportation Safety Board has cited that with the help of the cock... Free Essays on American Airlines american airlines By: helen kninich Helen Khinich Individual Project Outline: American Airlines Introduction: American Airlines is the biggest airline in the United States since 1991. American Airlines was pioneer in many fields gaining competitive and advantage over the other airlines. American has also pioneered several policies including that affected the industry’s structure and standard practices. In the 1960’s, American introduced the first computerized reservation system, revolutionizing the marketing and distribution of the travel industry. In 1977, they introduced â€Å"the super saver† fares, which was the first program of discounts for leisure travelers and in 1981, they launched the first frequent-flier program. AMR, the parent company for American Airlines, has a number of businesses within its corporate structure including: American Airlines whose success is rooted in the airline’s greatest asset – its people, all 101,706 of them. In the rapidly changing markets where Am erican competes in the United States and abroad, American Eagle which was established in 1984 as American Airlines' regional airline affiliate. The American Eagle network is the largest regional airline system in the world, with over 1,400 flights a day to more than 101 cities throughout the United States, Canada, The Bahamas and the Caribbean. AA Cargo, a division of American Airlines, which provides more than 14 million pounds of daily lift capacity to major cities in Europe, Canada, Mexico the Caribbean, Central and South America, Asia and throughout the United States. Through cooperative interline agreements, AA Cargo can transport shipments to virtually any country in the world. Manufacturing A Severe Manufacturing Problem: Flight 587 crashed last November and investigation determined that it was due to mechanical failure, as if September 11th didn’t scare the people enough. There were other problems with this Airbus A300 prior to this ... Free Essays on American Airlines American Airlines American Airlines Marketing cases AMERICAN AIRLINES 1. Issues 2. American Airlines’ objectives 3. The airline industry 4. Market 5. Consumer needs 6. Brand image 7. Distribution system 8. Pricing 9. Marketing related strategies 10. Assumptions and risks 1- Issues The main issue of this case is the lack of profits of the airline industry, an industry that should be more than profitable due to the large amount of customers, the necessity of using airlines’ services and the high prices charged by most of these airlines. What we are going to deal with is, why is this happening? And how is American airlines dealing with this problem?. To be able to discuss how American airlines wants to regain profitability, we must identify and analyse different issues such as, the company’s background, the airline industry as a whole, the demand for air travel, the marketing strategies, the distribution systems, pricing policies etc. 2- American Airlines’ objectives American Airlines’ prime objective is to bring back value to air travel, through stimulating business travel, lowering prices etc. So in other words American Airlines’ main objective is to become as profitable as possible. To understand better the company’s objectives we first have to focus on the company’s background, this way we will find out why the airline is not as profitable as it should, and what kind of a change is needed. American Airlines had been the largest airline in the United States for a long time. In 1990 and 1991 due to a recession and the Gulf War, demand for air travel dropped drastically, for this reason, fare wars started and all the airlines incurred massive losses. 3,4- The Airline industry and the market The airline industry is large, specially in the United States, mainly due to the â€Å" Deregulation† of the industry. In 1938, the Civil Aeronautics Board was created to control the growth of the air transportation industry. This b o...

Literature review Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words - 2

Literature review - Essay Example The model is basically represented in a mathematical equation which is equated with the â€Å"expected rate of return on a stock to risk free rate plus a risk premium for the stock’s systematic risk† (Keown, 1998, p.242). Risk premium for a particular security is basically defined as the required return after deducting the risk free rate existing in the market. Total risk which is calculated as a standard deviation of return is generally fragmented into two parts. They are unsystematic and risk systematic risk, Beta () (Strong, 2008, p.168). The investors are rewarded bearing through this risk only and is very crucial. The equation for CAPM can be given as follows: †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. (1) The above equation is a CAPM equation and it is also known as the security market line. In this equation, is the expected return, is the risk free return, is the required return for a particular market portfolio. , measure the systematic risk (Keown, 1998, p.242). 1.2 Application T he model provides a logical approach for analyzing the return that an investor should receive from an investment. More interestingly, the model is applied in a wide spectrum in the field of modern finance for the purpose of estimating the cost of equity and the performance of a company. Evaluating performance of companies in a particular industrial area is of great importance as it reflects the economic functioning of the area and further decides the strength of investor’s attraction in that particular area (Armitage, 2005, p.278). 2. Research Aims and Objectives The rationale thus created is that the CAPM model helps to calculate expected return of an investor and evaluate the performance of the companies. The concentration in this paper will be on the later trajectory i.e. performance of the companies. The aim of the paper is to find proper application of CAPM model in a real world scenario. The objective of the paper is centered on finding out the intensity of the companie s creating value for their shareholders with data on ten US companies listed in the New York Stock Exchange. 4. Research questions The research questions that will be discussed in this paper are discussed below: 1. What is the importance of CAPM model in corporate finance? 2. What are the fields where the model is applicable and what important results it yield? 3. What decision criterion the model generates that drives the financial managers to take important business decisions? 3. Research hypothesis The research hypothesis that will be tested in this paper can be represented in a tabular format as given below: H0: The companies selected are not performing strongly to create value for the shareholders H1: The companies selected are performing strongly to create value for the shareholders H0 is the null hypothesis which will be tested against the alternative hypothesis H1. The data and testing procedure will be explained in a detailed manner in the methodology section. Now, the subs equent section will focus on a brief literature review on this particular financial model i.e. CAPM. 4. Literature Review Rigorous testing has been employed with CAPM model in the last three decades. Studies of Jensen and Scholes in 1972, Blume and Friend in 1973, Reinganum in 1981, Banz in 1981 founded that there exist a positive correlation between the realized return and as well as that between risk and return is a linear function. Through the