Ishikawa

A Forefather of TQM Principles: Kaoru Ishikawa Total Quality Management (TQM) principles are based off of the philosophies of numerous individuals – W. Edward Deming, Joseph Juran and Philip Crosby, to name a few. One such individual is Kaoru Ishikawa. Touted as the â€Å"Father of Quality Circles and as a founder of the Japanese quality movement† (Beckford, 2002), his philosophy on quality control is critical to understand TQM in general. Knowing the fundamentals/ building blocks of TQM can be used to shape the future direction and improvement of TQM.Ishikawa hoped his philosophy would improve quality in work, which in turn would lead to improvement in quality of life (Beckford, 2002). Ishikawa was born July 13, 1915. He graduated from the University of Tokyo where he received an engineering degree in Applied Chemistry. Later he would become a professor of the same University. After graduating, he joined the Union of Japanese Scientists and Engineers (JUSE) in 1949. Th is could be seen as the first steps he took towards developing his quality control philosophy and following in the footsteps of his father in Management Science (Hutchins, 1989. The core ideas of Ishikawa’s philosophy on quality control – companywide quality control (CWQC) – can be divided into three main concepts (Beckford, 2002). The first is that quality is based off of a holistic approach. The second core idea of Ishikawa’s philosophy is that there is active participation in the quality program amongst the employees. The third core idea is that there is direct, simple communication between management and workers. A holistic approach means that not only is the end product/service a quality product/service but also extends to the process that developed it.The end is just as important as the means. The company has a program in place that strives for quality management, quality workers and quality processes within all levels of the company. I think this c oncept of quality at all levels within a company is especially important in today’s society where it is not enough to know a company provides a quality product but is socially and environmentally conscious. For example, if a company has a quality process in place when choosing and working with certain suppliers – they lessen the chance of being surprised that the supplier uses child labor or contaminates the environment.Ishikawa’s second core idea of active participation among employees emphasizes the importance the workers. It’s not enough to have a quality program in place; the employees (including leadership) have to be involved and to have a voice within the company. This is based off of the idea that employees not only can recognize the problems in a process but also the solutions (Beckford, 2002). One of the main complaints that employees have is that management is not in touch with what they actually do so they don’t listen when there is a p roblem or a solution. Ishikawa’s second core idea looks to avoid this phenomenon.The last core idea of direct, open communication between workers and management rounds out Ishikawa’s philosophy on quality control. It stresses the importance of group communication to be understandable and in â€Å"layman terms† so it can be pertinent for all levels of the company. Ishikawa’s contributions to quality management were numerous. He wrote 600+ articles and 31 books (Smith, 2011). He had 2 English translated books – â€Å"Introduction to Quality Control† and â€Å"What is Total Quality Control? The Japanese Way†. He was also behind the concept of quality circles and the Fishbone Diagram.Quality circles can be seen as a method of creating active participation within a company. It shows how Ishikawa believed that â€Å"all workers must be involved in quality improvement through teams to enhance the capability of individual workers and improve work processes† (Watson, 2004). Quality circles are groups of workers within a company that is formed to review, analyze and make recommendations for issues and problems. The Fishbone diagram was developed in 1943 as a problem-solving tool and was used to identify possible root causes to problems in a simple and straightforward presentation.It is one of the seven tools of quality control that is recognized worldwide (Smith, 2011). While all the tools of quality control is important, this diagram can be used in numerous disciplines ranging from not only quality management, but science, education, etc. The other tools of quality control is Pareto Charts, Stratification, Check sheets, Histograms, Scatter graphs and Control charts (Beckford, 2002) Throughout his career, Ishikawa was the recipient of numerous awards. Per Beckford, he received the Deming, Nihon Keizai Press and Industrial Standardization prizes and the Grant Award from the American Society for Quality Control.Ishik awa’’s work also prompted an award to be given out in his honor. In 1993, ASQ established the Ishikawa Medal where it is awarded â€Å"to an individual or a team whose work has had a major positive impact on the human aspects of quality† (ASQ, 2012) Ishikawa passed away April 16, 1989. Although he is no longer with us, his work and his philosophy is still vibrant and in use today. Understanding the core concepts behind Ishikawa’s CWCQ sheds light on TQM principles. His philosophies help shape how companies today develop their quality control programs.Maybe from the lessons and philosophy of Ishikawa, a future TQM guru could emerge, giving the world another individual that further advances quality in work and ultimately in life. References Beckford, J. (2002). Part two: The quality gurus: Chapter 8: Kaoru Ishikawa. Quality (Routledge), pg. 93 – 104. Watson, G. (2004). The Legacy Of Ishikawa. Quality Progress, 37(4), 54-57. SMITH, J. (2011). The Last ing Legacy OF THE MODERN QUALITY GIANTS. Quality, 50(10), 40-47. Kaoru Ishikawa 1915-1989. (2010). Quality Progress, 43(11), 19. Bauer, K. (2005). KPI Identification With Fishbone Enlightenment.DM Review, 15(3), 12. Hackman, J. , & Wageman, R. (1995). Total Quality Management: Empirical, Conceptual, and Practical Issues. Administrative Science Quarterly, 40(2), 309-342. Hutchins, David. (1989). Obituary: Professor Kaoru Ishikawa. The Independent. April 26, 1989. http://asq. org/about-asq/who-we-are/bio_ishikawa. html http://asq. org/about-asq/awards/ishikawa. html (Evans, James R.. Managing for Quality and Performance Excellence, 8th Edition. South Western Educational Publishing, 01/2010. p. 110). <vbk:1111509360#outline(3. 7. 2)>

Nuremberg Trials

Where Nazi officials judged fairly during the Nuremburg Trails that followed World War II? Twenty-four major political and military leaders of Nazi Germany, indicted for aggressive war, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. Of the twenty-four twenty-one were taken into custody and put on trial; these were known as the Nuremberg Trials. These trials started on November 20th 1945 and were the first ever war crime tribunal. The Trials were held by the Allied forces of World War II and were held in the city of Nuremberg in Bavaria Germany out of the Palace of Justice.Accusations placed against them were for their involvement in the Nazi Party during World War II. Nazi officials were judged unfairly during the Nuremburg Trails for a continent wide genocide that occurred within WWII and the world watched as Nazi officials got what they deserved. Lead by Adolf Hitler the Third Riech, the government in Germany at the time, adopted policies of aggressive war and persecuted minorities. Hitl er started a Europe wide systematic killing of approximately six million Jews called the Holocaust. â€Å"Holocaust† is a word of Greek origin meaning â€Å"sacrifice by fire†. USHMM). The Nazis, who came into power in Germany in 1933, believed that Germans were the superior race and deemed all others inferior, mainly the Jews, and viewed them as a threat to the community. Nearly two out of three Jews that lived in Europe at the time lost their lives due to the systematic killing. (USHMM). After establishing concentration camps to detain political and people of importance in opposing forces, Germany’s SS and police officials detained Jews and other victims of ethnic and racial hatred in these camps.The idea was to concentrate and monitor the Jewish population and also to make later deportation of the Jews easier. These camps changed into labor camps and eventually assisted in the systematic killing. Germany invaded territories and began to expand early into Hitl er’s reign, such as Czechoslovakia and Poland. After the victory in Poland, Germany began to make its way into Denmark, France, and many others making concentration camps along the way to assist in the genocide. One of the most infamous concentration camps was known as Auschwitz, based in Poland under the command of Rudolf Hoss.Auschwitz eventually became the largest Nazi camp and had an estimated total of over two million victims. The killing and building of concentration camps continue throughout 1941 and eventually become or were determined to be extermination camps. Germans begin experiments and other inhumane practices on prisoners which grows the tension throughout Europe. Towards the end of the war Nazi officials order liquidation of Jews in ghettos, a city locked down by German SS containing Jews, and in some camps, this meant the execution of the prisoners and workers. During the era of the Holocaust, German authorities also targeted other groups because of their per ceived â€Å"racial inferiority†: Roma (Gypsies), the disabled, and some of the Slavic people (Poles, Russians, and others). Other groups were persecuted on political, ideological, and behavioral grounds, among them Communists, Socialists, Jehovah's Witnesses, and homosexuals (USHMM). During the final months of the war, SS guards moved camp prisoners by train or marches, often called â€Å"death marches,† to try to stop and prevent the Allied liberation of large numbers of prisoners.As Allied forces moved across Europe in a series of offensives against Germany, they began to encounter and liberate concentration camp prisoners, as well as prisoners en route by forced march from one camp to another. The marches continued until May 7, 1945, the day the German armed forces surrendered unconditionally to the Allies. In the aftermath of the Holocaust, many of the survivors found shelter in displaced persons camps administered by the Allied powers. Between 1948 and 1951, almo st 700,000 Jews immigrated to Israel, including 136,000 Jewish displaced persons from Europe.Other Jewish DPs emigrated to the United States and other nations (USHMM). The twenty-two officials were being tried for aggressive war, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. Herman Goring, the second highest ranking Nazi Official, he was the Commander of the Luftwaffe, Germany’s air force. Goering was perhaps the most influential person, next to Hitler, in the Nazi organization. He was one of only 12 Nazis elected to the Reichstag in 1928. He orchestrated the Reichstag fire on February 27, 1933 and, with Goebbels assistance, used the fire as a propaganda tool against the communists.In the mid-1930's Goering was in charge of the â€Å"Aryanization† of Jewish property (JVL). Goring was sentenced to death but committed suicide the night before his execution with a cyanide capsule. Rudolf Hess served as Hitler’s deputy minister and was next in line if Goering should be u navailable for any reason. Rudolf Hess was sentenced to life imprisonment. He served over 40 years of that sentence at Spandau Prison and committed suicide in 1987 at age 93 (JVL). Hans Frank, Governor-General of the general government in Poland during World War II, was sentenced to death.Under his administration the approximately 2. 5 million Jews in the occupied territories of Poland were exploited in slave labor. Also during his administration, the extermination camps in eastern Poland were constructed implemented (JVL). Wilhelm Frick, Hitler’s Minister of the Interior, was sentenced to death due to his significant role in the formation of Nazi racial laws. He was credited with the creation of Nuremberg Laws of 1935 and 1938; laws were intended to take away rights and privileges formerly allowed to Jews.However, Julius Streicher was non-military, he was not part of the planning process of the Holocaust, nor of the invasion of Poland or the Soviet Union. But his role in pro voking the massacre of Jews was momentous enough; he was sentenced to death by hanging. Walther Funk, Hitler’s Minister of Economics and was head of the Reichsbank, which funded the economic planning for the war; he was sentenced to Life Imprisonment. Fritz Sauckel was a general for the allocation of labor. Sauckel was involved in using 5 million laborers that were imported and forced to work.He was charged with the solicitation of slave labor and sentenced to death by handing. Alfred Jodl was Chief of Operations for the German Army, he was charged with aggressive war for invasion of the Soviet Union and the destruction of Czechoslovakia. Martin Bormann was known to be uncivilized, ruthless, and brutal. His whereabouts were unconfirmed during the trials but he made such an impact that he was sentenced in absentia to death by hanging; his reputation was based on the expulsion of millions of Jews to Poland and the exploitation of Ukrainian women as slave labor.Going down the li st we find Franz von Papen, Vice Chancellor of Germany, he supported views of Hitler but the prosecution had serious difficulties linking Papen to conspiracy to initiate an aggressive war. He was eventually one of the few that were acquitted. Joachim Von Ribbentrop had recommended and supported the deportation of Jews from France and Italy to the camps in the east and urged their extermination. Under cross-examination by the British assistant prosecutor, Ribbentrop admitted that he knew of Hitler’s intention to deport all Jews from German territories and that he assisted in that process.Ribbentrop was sentenced to death by hanging (JVL). The International Military Tribunal finished its work and handed down its verdicts on October 1, 1946, ironically, on the Jewish Day of Atonement. Of the 22 defendants, 11 were given the death penalty, 3 were acquitted, 3 were given life imprisonment and four were given imprisonment ranging from 10 to 20 years. Those sentenced to death were h anged at Spandau Prison on October 6, 1946. Those acquitted were placed in the inept de-Nazification program following the trial. Those who received prison sentences were sent to Spandau Prison.The death sentences were carried out 16 October 1946 by hanging using the standard drop method instead of long drop. The U. S. army denied claims that the drop length was too short which caused the condemned to die slowly from strangulation instead of quickly from a broken neck. But evidence remains that some of the condemned men died agonizingly slowly taking from between 14 minutes to choke to death to as longs as struggling for 28 minutes. The executioner was John C. Woods. The executions took place in the gymnasium of the court building which was demolished in 1983. In his closing remarks Robert Jackson, said â€Å"The reality is that in the long perspective of history the present century will not hold an admirable position, unless its second half is to redeem its first. These two-score years in the twentieth century will be recorded in the book of years as one of the most bloody in all annals. Two World Wars have left a legacy of dead which number more than all the armies engaged in any way that made ancient or medieval history. No half-century ever witnessed slaughter on such a scale, such cruelties and inhumanities, such wholesale deportations of peoples into slavery, such annihilations of minorities.The terror of Torquemada pales before the Nazi Inquisition. These deeds are the overshadowing historical facts by which generations to come will remember this decade. If we cannot eliminate the causes and prevent the repetition of these barbaric events, it is not an irresponsible prophecy to say that this twentieth century may yet succeed in bringing the doom of civilization†Ã¢â‚¬  (JVL). For most of the world, the Nuremberg Trials were a symbolic expression of outrage over the atrocities of the Nazi organization.Once done, however, it seems that the major co ncern was to put the whole matter in the past and forget it. To use Justice Jackson’s words, that we have eliminated â€Å"the causes† and laid the basis for preventing â€Å"the repetition of these barbaric events. † In words that might portray his view today, what happened was now in history books around the world, and if something like this ever did happen again we would have a basis to be able to punish them correctly and more effectively. Not only having the basis but also having this also as a deterrent to those in later generations who may try something like this again.The question if justice was actually served can be debated for centuries because of the amount of devastation the men were involved in. Two distinct punishments of history and justice during the examination and action of Nazi war crimes and crimes against humanity has been the theme of debate ever since the Nuremberg International Military Tribunal. This was particularly debatable, and more times than not it was poorly understood, by the role of historians in the trials of National Socialist perpetrators of genocide.Addressing this issue in its logical, practical and real-world scopes, even though the objectives were similar, a comparative analysis demonstrates that both law and justice benefited from this interaction. Assuming that the humanities and injustices were served correctly and done so in a civilized manor, which in my views it was, but I believe it almost wasn’t enough. The Nazi officials had no problem knowingly and publicly displaying their views to the entire world and were not afraid during war time.Once war was over and they were at the mercy of the world they publicly embarrassed, the officials knew nothing of the plans or how they were executed, almost like they were never involved. Said best by Henry David Thoreau, â€Å"It is not a man’s duty, as a matter of course, to devote himself to the eradication of any, even the most enormous wrong; he may still properly have other concerns to encourage him; but it is his duty, at least, to wash his hands of it, and, if he gives it no thought longer, not to give him practically his support.If I devote myself to other pursuits and contemplations, I must first see, at least, that I do not pursue them sitting upon another man’s shoulders† (RWLA). In other words, as a man, he has the knowing ability to dedicate himself to what he wishes; it was the Nazi official’s choice to stand with Hitler and support his ideas. Maybe some were afraid of death if they didn’t comply but as a man it is his obligation to own up to it and not blame the views of Hitler of his actions.The action and paths these men picked put them down a dark road and they paid for it. Millions of people exterminated to support one mad man’s views, and when all was said and done and defeat was admitted no one wanted to admit the monstrosities they assisted in. James Fenimore Coo per’s The Slaughter of the Pigeons, Cooper talks about the sport of killing pigeons becoming more for business and less for sport. â€Å"This expident produced the desired effect , for every urchin on the ground went industriously to work to wring the necks of the wounded birds.Judge Temple retired towards his dwelling with that kind of feeling that many a man has experienced before him, who discovers, after the excitement of the moment has passed, that he has purchased pleasure at the price of misery to others. Horses were loaded with the dead; and ,after this first burst of sporting, the shooting of pigeons became a business, for the remainder of the season, more in proportion to the wants of the people. I liked this excerpt especially because I believe as it was almost written with the Nuremburg Trials in mind. Pigeons can be interchanged with those killed during the Holocaust. To an extent, the killing and â€Å"purification† went on for so long that it, at least in my eyes, became a business for many of these officials. With the world watching, 22 defendants, 11 were given the death penalty, 3 were acquitted, 3 were given life imprisonment and four were given imprisonment ranging from 10 to 20 years.Nazi officials had no problem expressively and openly displaying their views to the entire world and were not afraid during war time but once war was over and they were at the mercy of the world they publicly embarrassed, and they were treated fairly and got their just deserts, maybe not enough sprinkles. Works Cited De Nevers, Renee. â€Å"Modernizing the Geneva Conventions. † The Washington Quarterly 29. 2 (2006): 99-113. Project MUSE. Web. . Haberer, E. â€Å"History and Justice: Paradigms of the Prosecution of Nazi Crimes. Holocaust and Genocide Studies 19. 3 (2005): 487-519. Project MUSE. Web. . James, Missy, and Alan Merickel. Reading Literature and Writing Argument. Boston: Longman, 2011. Print. Henry David Thoreau, Civil Disobedi ence 245-259 James, Missy, and Alan Merickel. Reading Literature and Writing Argument. Boston: Longman, 2011. Print. James Fenimore Cooper, The Slaughter of the Pigeons. 277-283 Prusin, Alexander V. â€Å"Poland's Nuremberg. † The Seven Court Cases of the Supreme National Tribunal, 1946-1948 24. 1 (2010): n. pag. Project

October Sky Hero Essay

Some people say you have to do something special to be called a hero, but Miss Riley just has to be herself. She was Homer’s teacher and was very encouraging. Miss Riley believed in Homer before he thought he could build the rocket. I think she acted as an inspiration to Homer and the Rocket Boys. To begin with, Miss Riley is heroic because she was an encouraging teacher. When she taught Homer, she seemed to support him very much. As a teacher, that meant she was helpful to her students including Homer. I believed she was lionhearted- meaning when she taught and also when she wasn’t Miss Riley always cared for others. For example, I knew someone who always cared for other people. She always remembered other people’s birthday’s, sent cards for all occasions, and put other people first. This person is my great- grandma, she acted as if I had a Miss Riley in my life only we were related and I was lucky for that. Furthermore, Miss Riley is heroic because she believed in Homer before he did in himself. Homer’s father- Jon put him down and showed no support towards what he wanted to do. His father wanted Homer to become a coalminer like everyone else in the town. But Miss Riley knew that is not what Homer should do, and he had a special potential to succeed by making the rocket ship. Although Miss Riley was sick when Homer was awarded 1st place- she was still very optimistic. Miss Riley had a disease called Hodgkin’s disease. This deathly disease would not allow her to live much longer. With that said Miss Riley always looked in the future, even though she was vastly ill. To continue, I feel Miss Riley acted as an inspiration. But not only for Homer, but many other people in the town. Like I said before she was a positive person and looked into in the future. Other people could take that as a lesson. I think Homer looked up to Miss Riley. I also look up to my great grandma. They both share similar traits that people don’t always have. In my opinion, my great grandma had a special power of making someone feel like they were worth living and they had a purpose in life. On the other hand Miss Riley made people feel like they could succeed. All in all, Miss Riley is heroic because she was encouraging, she believed in Homer, and she acted as an inspiration. Unfortunately, Miss Riley passed away from the disease, but of course she will be remembered, and Homer and the Rocket boys could never forget her.

Issues in Educational Research Article Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Issues in Educational Research - Article Example The coded information included the source, respondent, episode any other information that was emerging. Sorting out, which was the second stage involved using the unitized data in identification of learning areas and relating them to the components of learning. The third stage of analysis sorted out the components of learning into the learning categories that had been predetermined. During the analysis enabled establishment of the key identified areas used for learning in the science and mathematics sector. The in-depth analysis procedures were adequate in that they gave an avenue through which knowledge construction of the pre-service teachers could now be understood in a better way (Johnson&Christensen, 2011). The adequacy of study results The study results were adequately equipped. This is because; the results indicated the numerous elements that were interacting in the environment that this study was conducted. The results gave the required insights on how the system functions an d how it affects learning of science and mathematics in elementary schools for the pre-service teachers. The results provided the most active and influential elements in the learners system cohort. The methods of improving learning methods were also established in the study results which were the most important factor for the study. Learning venues like incorporating models in learning process, the use of reflection before, during and even after teaching and incorporating collaborative learning are a good strategy for learning mathematics and sciences in elementary schools. More so, predetermined methods for both teaching and learning experiences were defined like learning from children, teachers, instructors and course methods, self and peers. Therefore, the... This paper makes a conclusion that going through this study, we have acquired the basic knowledge that is required for elementary school pre-service teachers for better teaching and learning of science and mathematics in elementary schools.The issues that are unexpected during the process of research may came up and proper measures should be put in place in case of such an event. The report approves that the study has also given me an insight on the proper ways of carry out data collection procedures. Through this study, I have established that primary sources are very reliable methods of collecting data. This is because, from the study, the institution contributed to the insights that have been projected out from the study. The results are reliable due to the active involvement of the correct participants. According to the paper the study has also enabled my understanding of the appropriate data analysis procedures in the process of carrying out any educational research. Data analysis methods contribute to effective results hence proper recommendations for any educational research. Teaching elementary school teachers who are specializing in mathematics and science for elementary schools has been enhanced through this study. This is because, while preparing students for elementary schools, it will be possible to apply the recommended strategies to these future elementary teachers. This means that better pre-service teachers in the area of mathematics and science for elementary schools will be produced.

Project Management Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Project Management - Assignment Example Processes responsible for managing a project, establishing reliability and regulation that can as well allow for accountability in project scope. Retrieval and dissemination of information is an important factor in management and hence management results records and deliberations, coming up with schedules are bent on time management. Concise follow up of these knowledge areas will benefit the project ensuring a success at the end especially in monitoring and evaluation. Project Work Breakdown Structure Part 2: Scope of the project The developers of this project need to put into consideration the various processes involved in the achievement of appropriate technological method to detect tsunamis in the future in Japan. Input such as obtaining capital and authentication to set up the project; carrying out information storage on the project resource expenses and use. Tools like expert critical analysis plus coming up with new ideas and improving them with the concerned team. Verdict of the experienced and knowledgeable personnel are considered. The team manager and its team must deliberate on the possible outcome; the ending of the project should culminate into the development of a deliverable that will meet the required detector. There must be a consideration of time limitations and possible solutions. Factors influencing the project These factors include the availability of human resource; that is, well trained personnel with competent skills in the technical skills and knowhow. Capital plus charter that will authenticate its implementation considering good will from the Japan government. Finally, knowledge areas such as project time management, information services, quality and/or risk and procurement management. Reasons for probable failure Lack of necessary skills, technical attributes and knowledge by the team manager and his/her team. There is a possibility that if the project manager and assigned team do not have vital competencies, skills and concerned ap praisals, then the technological approach targeted for this project may not prosper. The team needs to acquire necessary skills, appraisals and motivations plus right interpersonal skills and important team networking skills. Failure to define the probable risks such as undetected malfunctioning of the technology developed, unforeseen tsunami trends that could be undetectable. Insufficient information retrieval and dissemination may lead to misinformation and a division between project managers and the team. Communication is a vital component any process especially projects. Part 3 Lists of paths shown: B: 6, E: 3, G: 2 and H: 3 is the critical path. These paths may include: earliest path for project completion, Latest path for project completion, slack path for activities that lie in the critical path and subjective time estimate paths. Importance of critical paths According to Roberta R and Bernard WT (2006), critical path has various benefits to the project team. Critical path is a path that interlinks the vital activities of a project. It helps the management to focus on the tasks that fall along it and are critical towards the completion of a project; while helping management to identify which paths to shorten, it enable crash program in which project completion period may be reduced and hence lead to earlier finishing. In the network shown, critical path is B: 6,

Beck Depression Scale Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Beck Depression Scale - Essay Example One final goal of assessment is to get a clear understanding of the structure and functioning of the family. The MFT has specific information that he is looking to obtain during the assessment process. First and foremost, the MFT wants to gather as much information as possible on the problem the family is faced with. This includes the length of the current problem, the family's history of conflict, the family's history of solutions, and the family's motivation to rectify the current problem. The MFT also wants information about the structure of the family, such as any cultural or religious influences, socioeconomic status, and the hierarchy of the family. At the same time, the MFT wants to understand how the family functions; their conflict resolution strategies, how well they communicate with one another, each member's role in the family, and individual and collective goals. Finally, the MFT is interested in finding out what the family's goals are for therapy. There are many different ways in which the MFT can gather this assessment information, but they all fall into two broad categories: qualitative and quantitative. Qualitative assessment allows the therapist to make inferences about certain behaviors and reactions of family members during an assessment task, whereas quantitative assessment is in the form of a standardized instrument, usually a pencil-and-paper questionnaire or scale. There are many advantages of using qualitative assessments. The family plays a larger, more important role in the assessment process, the assessment becomes part of the treatment process since this type of assessment tends to be therapeutic in and of itself, the therapist can pick and choose different techinques that fit nicely with his specific theoretical orientation, it allows the therapist and family to work together in assessing the information obtained, the family is often more committed to therapy because of the vital role they play in the assessment process, individual family members learn from one another and can learn how each member is affected by the family as a whole, allows the family to be viewed in a three-dimensional context, and it can be used with families from various cultural, ethnic, and religious backgrounds (Deacon & Piercy, 2001). There are many qualitative techniques available for the MFT. Qualitative assessments include the use of art, guided imagery, photographs, role playing, sculptures, free association, metaphors, and circular questioning. The idea behind this type of assessment is that it takes the focus off of the individual, and places it on the task at hand, often making the clients less defensive and more emotive (Deacon &Piercy, 2001). While there are many advantages to qualitative assessment, it is not for everyone. Some therapists and clients may not feel comfortable with such exercises, and these exercises may in fact exacerbate any anxiety felt towards therapy instead of relieving it (Deacon & Piercy, 2001). In such a case, these exercises should not be pushed. If these activities are forced, the information gathered will most likely be scarce. Deacon and Piercy also note that while qualitative assessments can provide the therapist with a wealth of information, it cannot provide certain informa tion that can only be obtained through quantitative asse

Letters of Appreciation to Caregivers Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Letters of Appreciation to Caregivers - Essay Example This letter should have been something I wrote months ago. But hopefully it can serve instead as a small indication of the gratitude so many feel but have not had opportunity to express to you. I have kept a close eye on events in New Orleans. I was particularly moved to hear how you tried to speak with and reassure people still trapped in the floodwater. So much of the media tends to focus on negative elements in general - especially in the event of a natural disaster - that virtuous acts are frequently overlooked. That small act of kindness is, I'm sure, just the tip of the iceberg of long hours and sleepless nights you must have spent through the course of the last year. Please ignore any slander the press may say. The most notable commendation of your efforts has been your re-election - coinciding with the advent of this year's hurricane season. Whatever anyone else may say, the people of New Orleans trust you to have their best interests at heart - and remember, you were re-elected by those who have returned to New Orleans and know most directly all that you have done for them. And although, I am not currently there, It warms my heart to know that someone is taking good care of my home so that I might one day return.

Loosening Credit Standards Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Loosening Credit Standards - Research Paper Example ods and services that implies some form of consumer credit (meaning the credit extended is for eventual consumption) by the borrower and the lender expects to be repaid either in money or in kind later on. Credit had been used since immemorial times back to Biblical periods or even extending back to antiquity as shown by the Hammurabi Code of ancient Babylon in which there was the provision for punishment for people who do not pay their debts or try to escape their financial responsibility by absconding or running away. The purpose of credit had always been the same; it is used to facilitate the exchange of goods and services long before modern economics came into being as a distinct academic discipline and as a legitimate profession itself. The Hammurabi Code consisted of about 282 laws with approximately half of these laws dealing with commercial contracts in which there is a graded punishment for contract violators. In modern free-market capitalist economies today, the sanctity of contracts is always upheld to help promote trade and commerce by creating conditions of trust in which parties to a transaction are assured of payment and other stipulations by which to ensure compliance by the other party. The loosening of strict credit standards can lead to serious, unforeseen, and dire consequences for an entire economy because it causes higher credit default rates as borrowers cannot pay. Credit is used in perhaps ninety percent of all commercial transactions compared to the use of cash. This is because cash can be limited at times which can hinder the completion of any contemplated transaction; credit provides the necessary link for the transaction to push through despite the absence or lack of sufficient cash on the part of the buyer. If the seller is willing to be trusting or take a risk as to the trustworthiness of a buyer, then credit is extended. People trusted other people to honor financial obligations in such ways as a mere handshake to seal a deal.

In a culturally diverse word, the universality of human rights remains Assignment

In a culturally diverse word, the universality of human rights remains unsettled. Discuss - Assignment Example The UK has enacted several legislation that safeguard the human rights of its citizens such as the Human rights Act 1998 that introduced in to domestic law the human rights safeguarded by the international law like European Convention of Human Rights like the right to life, right to a fair trial, freedom of expression, right of education, freedom from slavery and forced labour and freedom of religion. Key development was the Declaration of Human rights in 1948 by about 50 of the United Nations member countries and subsequent ratifications by other countries. Other international conventions that followed aimed at expanding the doctrine of human rights to include civil and political rights, cultural rights, sociol-economic rights and prohibition of all forms of discriminations (Claude and Weston, 2006). For instance, the International Covenant on economic, social and cultural rights was adopted in 1966 and ratified by several states. Human rights refer to the recognition and respect of human dignity. Human rights entail a set of moral principles and legal guidelines that promote and protect the identity, values and abilities of individuals in order to enhance the standards of living (Claude and Weston, 2006). ... This paper will discuss the contents and principles of human rights, the universality versus cultural relativism of human rights and finally outline the current trend in protection of universal human rights. In the conclusion, the paper will offer a recommendation on whether universality can exist with cultural relativism and ensure universal human rights. Contents and principles of human rights The first guiding principle of human rights is equality and non-discrimination. Non-discrimination acts as the basis of international human right law and is outlined in all the human rights treaties. International human rights conventions such as the International Convention on the Elimination of discrimination especially racial and women discrimination requires all state governments to enact legislations that protect the citizens from such discrimination (Claude and Weston, 2006). This principle is applicable to all human beings regardless of non-exhaustive criteria that include sex, religio n and other identifiable status of the individuals. According to Article 1 of the Universal Declaration of Human rights, all human beings are born free and equality in their dignity should be respected (Talbott, 2005). The second content of human rights is interdependent and indivisible nature of human rights. This principle asserts that human rights are interrelated and interdependent since enforcement of one rights leads to advancement of the other rights and the ultimate increase in the general standards of living (Claude and Weston, 2006). Accordingly, civil rights such as the right to life and political rights lead to equal protection by the law and fair trial. In addition, a violation of one right such as the

Human resource management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words - 1

Human resource management - Essay Example An independent analysis of the online recruitment models at Price Waterhouse Coopers, Marks and Spencer and Barclay’s was conducted to determine whether these models are properly aligned to gain the best talent required. Marks and Spencer significantly emphasises the corporate culture that resides at the firm as a means of differentiating the business from competing retail recruiters. The website is constructed for extreme ease of navigation through the various informational pages, providing clear and distinct weblinks to explore the many diverse values portrayed by the organisation. On the â€Å"Our Values† page, Marks and Spencer clearly lists the core foundation of culture, including elements of trust, innovation, commitment, and quality of service (Marks and Spencer 2012). From this page, the candidate is able to navigate easily to learn of the many benefits of gaining employment with the firm, including employee discounts, receipt of bonus scheme outcomes, and pens ion opportunities for long-term reward (Marks and Spencer 2012). In every detail, this organisation wants the candidate to understand the dynamics of business operations and human resources philosophy at the organisation, providing ample information on leadership at the firm and the strong emphasis on diversity prevalent in this business model. No proverbial stone is left unturned in relation to providing comprehension of organisational culture and business mission and vision to assist the candidate in determining whether they would be a proper fit for this business model. The image portrayed by Marks and Spencer is one of leadership-based competence and one in which candidates should expect human resources models to contain much emphasis on social belonging and professional development. An independent candidate that prefers individualism rather than collective work groups, after assessing the sizeable basket of information about the company, might select a competitor with a more ce ntralised business model. However, the blend of knowledge portrayed on the corporate recruitment site leaves little to the imagination about what should be expected upon gaining employment. Barclays and Price Waterhouse Coopers take a different approach to the online recruitment process, with much less emphasis on transformational leadership and cultural development. As both of these companies operate in the financial sector, in generally centralised hierarchies, the content of these two recruitment websites are more professional-centric describing values associated with meeting strategic corporate goals rather than focusing on the interpersonal dynamic of inter-office relationship development. Offers Price Waterhouse Coopers, â€Å"Our culture is all about our people. The development of our people is key and though we are all driven by different aspirations, we share the same commitment to quality† (pwc.co.uk 2012, p.1). Price Waterhouse Coopers attempts to illustrate that h ard work is the cornerstone of meeting service needs and achieving long-term goals with much less emphasis on the psycho-social dynamic of employment. Though the website is easy to navigate with ample weblinks leading to job-related information, the focus of recruitment is navigation through many web pages describing domestic and international career positions with well-developed and thorough job descriptions. Barclay’s, as well, places much less emphasis on the dynamics of existing organisational cu

Tribal Warfare Essay Example for Free

Tribal Warfare Essay Addressing the threats of tribal warfare and proposing alternatives for resolving such issue were given by Neuhauser in his article.   In the summary, Neuhauser elaborated on the issue and definition of tribal warfare.   Moreover, he pointed out the positive and negative effects of having tribes in the work environment.   The author exposed the issue of tribal warfare with regard to its origin and linked it to how it generates conflict among members of the workforce. With that argument in place, Neuhauser pointed out on the different points in determining the presence of tribal warfare in a workforce.    After giving out possible scenarios for the occurrence of conflict between co-workers, Neuhauser indicated the need for addressing tribal warfare by explaining possible alternatives and solutions in resolving the issue among co-workers and groups. Furthermore, Neuhauser pointed out the important traits and strategies needed by a manager to overcome and bridge the gap caused by tribal warfare; migrating and tribal management skills.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In reaction to the article made by Neuhauser, the paper sees that the author made a good summary of the issue of tribal warfare.   The issues were clearly pointed out and elaborated for the readers to have a clear idea of the whole picture.   Another thing that was good about the summary is Neuhauser gave certain examples by showing a diagram of how tribal warfare can be existent in certain work industries.   In this light, I will have to agree to what the author says that managers should address this issue primarily because if unattended, it will be the company who would suffer losses. Moreover, in response to the points given to address the problem of tribal warfare, the paper sees that Neuhauser limited his scope on the ways managers can effectively solve the issue.   The author just pointed out certain distinct traits that a manager should posses to resolve such issue.   It would have been better if the author elaborated on these concepts a little bit more so that readers might get important points regarding the issue.   On a high note, the methods and skills given by the author was sufficient enough for readers to comprehend and understand the ways of tackling tribal warfare.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   After giving a brief summary and personal response to the article, the paper will now elaborate on the ways of tackling the issue of tribal warfare.   This next section seeks to explain further a concept that the paper sees is vital for a positive interaction between tribes and prevent the escalation of conflict between these groups.   The concept that the paper will choose and elaborate is the creation of a team-based organization.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     The activity of a group of people working cooperatively to achieve shared goals via differentiation of roles and using elaborate systems of communication is basic to our species. (Blackwell Publishing, p.1) With this thing in mind, the idea of creating an organization based on teams is important in a workforce. Firstly, the paper will justify why such concept is important.   This form of collaboration is vital to solving complex problems fast, gaining commitment to change, and tapping the full reservoir of latent energy and ideas possessed by most organizations. (Hastings, p.1) Moreover, â€Å"Organizations worldwide are using teams as a business strategy to increase quality and customer service, improve productivity, and decrease costs.† (Kricher, p.1) Thus, the overall objective of this concept is to promote teamwork among the workforce and groups to facilitate a better outcome for companies. Also, in addressing the issues of tribal warfare, applying this concept means that the manager must be able to link each team/tribes that work independently on specific tasks to harmoniously coexist together to achieve the goals set by the company.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   With the justification of the use of a team-based organization, the issue now at hand is how must the leader act in accordance to this concept and what particular methods must he/she establish to attain such endeavors.   â€Å"The leader of the change process will have to manage and tolerate the conflict, resistance and pain associated with the introduction of such a major change within the organization.† (Blackwell Publishing, p.6) In terms of addressing tribal warfare, the managers must use their necessary skills to influence groups to collaborate. â€Å"As a manager, your job is to reduce your organization’s tribal warfare primarily by building communication bridges between the tribes.† (Neuhauser, 1988, p.5) The next section elaborates on these methods and techniques that a manager can use to promoting a team-based organization.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   An initiative that can be made on the part of the manager is setting an organizational support for teams.   â€Å"One important factor in building high-performance teams is the level of support for a team-based approach that exists throughout the organization—starting with senior managers.† (Kricher, p.1) In this process, proper and constant communication is vital among workers and managers to facilitate a more progressive work.   Thus, teamwork is vital in this process as each members of the group must interact to know what processes need to be done and accomplished.    Furthermore, a manager must be efficient enough to create methods for employees to understand and be incorporated to the actual working process. â€Å"In addition, senior managers need to model the values of teamwork and empowerment, because others in the organization will be looking to see if they â€Å"walk the talk.†Ã¢â‚¬  (Kricher, p.1) This method prevents the concept of tribal warfare because it prevents the catalyst of the escalation of this conflict; lack of communication.   With managers currently updated to the current events surrounding the team, issues that may cause tribal warfare with other teams can be prevented or negotiated.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The next method that can be implemented is narrowing or focusing the processes that each team should do. â€Å"In order for teams to succeed, the organization’s structure and people must be oriented to support core business processes.† (Kricher, p.2) This means that manager must be capable enough to create teams that cater to the process that defines what the company stands for.    â€Å"Success is more likely when teams include people with multiple skills who share responsibility for all or at least a significant portion of the overall business process.† (Kricher p.2) Moreover, the manager must be able to address the idea on keeping the business process as each ones focus rather than prioritizing on the interests of the group. Having this in mindset, tribal warfare can be prevented among groups.   Mainly because each one will be focused on the business process rather than their each individual’s group process which may lead to conflict.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Another important method to look into is the clarification of roles by each group.   â€Å"Clarity begins with making sure that every team member understands the purpose of the team and how that purpose fits in with the overall organizational vision and objectives.† (Kricher, p.2) The failure of a manager to clarify each team’s roles may lead to problematic consequences.   â€Å"When roles and responsibilities of team members and managers are unclear, confusion and discouragement often follow.† (Kricher p.2) Thus, it is very important for a manager to inform their team what roles and objectives one plays in the overall business process.    â€Å"The best team-based organizations determine a â€Å"how far/how fast† plan that specifies which responsibilities will be assumed by teams and at what pace.† (Kricher, p.2) Tribal warfare can also be prevented by applying effectively this method.   When managers get the roles of groups straight, there will be no pin-pointing of failure to get the job completed because each groups are given the roles and objectives to fulfill and prevent conflict.   Moreover, since roles are clear for each group, passing around jobs to other groups which impede efficiency and effectiveness at work will be prevented.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Next thing that the manager should do is enforce innovations among members of the group to promote continuous learning.   A commitment to being a â€Å"learning organization†Ã¢â‚¬â€ where continuous learning and skill development are expected and encouraged—is critical.† (Kricher, p.3) Managers should be aware that skills need to be improved so that the group will grow and progress to address the current demands in the company. With regards to the issue of tribal warfare â€Å"if several members’ tribes migrate and works together to figure out how to implement a new idea, the possible advantages of a tribal system are often accomplished.† (Neuhauser, 1988 p.7)   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Having elaborated on the four methods, the next section of the paper seeks to address certain strategies that can make a manager’s team successful.   Moreover, the paper will also link these strategies on how it can prevent the existence of tribal warfare.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The first strategy is having an efficient communication to achieve business objectives. â€Å"By effectively communicating a clear and compelling business case for teams, organizations mobilize support for teams from every level in the organization.† (Kricher, p.4) Lastly is creating quick and effective solutions for the team if ever they encounter conflict. â€Å"When teams have already been implemented and an intervention is announced to increase their effectiveness, that intervention should also be implemented as quickly as possible.† (Kricher, p.4) In terms of tribal warfare, these strategies can also help prevent and at the same time solve the issue. Having an efficient communication among each members of the group is vital in preventing tribal warfare.   This strategy can help each members of the group to harmoniously work together to achieve the business objectives set by the company. Furthermore, coexistence among groups striving to achieve goals will create an environment suitable for every party with one aim in mind.   On the other hand, the latter mentioned strategy is also an important element in addressing tribal warfare. Imposing immediate and effective solutions to the problem can help prevent the workforce from losing its focus on objectives that need to be accomplished.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   To conclude, the paper showcased the ways of addressing the negative implications of tribal warfare with the concept of creating team-based organizations.   The paper elaborated on the different methods and strategies a manager can implement to further improve the members of the workforce. As a manager, tribal warfare must never be taken for granted since it creates a barrier among the groups who should work harmoniously and collaboratively to address the needs of the company; growth and devekopment References Blackwell Publishing. Introduction to team-based organizations. Retrieved September 22, 2007 from http://www.blackwellpublishing.com/content/BPL_Images/Content_store/Sample_chapter/9781405106115/001.pdf Hastings, C. Creating a team-based organization. Retrieved September 22, 2007 from http://www.gowertraining.co.uk/docs/teambased.pdf Kricher, L.D. Best Practices of Term-Based Organizations in Development Dimensions International. Retrieved September 22, 2007 from http://www.ddiworld.com/pdf/ddi_bestpracticesteambasedorganizations_wp.pdf Neuhauser, P. (1988). Tribes Still Flourish: Tribal Warfare in Organizations (USA:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Soundview Executive Book Summaries)

The anti communist feelings Essay Example for Free

The anti communist feelings Essay I think Arthur Miller has been very successful in the character of Parris because although he doesnt actually cause any of the damage directly he still makes him a thoroughly unpleasant character and I think that the audience would feel the same. I personally feel sorry for Parris because he isnt a bad man hes just a pathetic one.  I think a scene which shows a lot of the worst behaviour is act three in the court. The obvious examples are from Abigail and the girls when they pretend to be bewitched by Mary who gets terrified at their act. Their reason for doing this is that Abigail is angry with Mary for betraying them and wants her to be accused of witchcraft so that she has no choice but to go back and join them. The audience I think would have particularly drawn into the scene because it is very tense and a lot of things happen. When Elizabeth lies for John and when John is arrested I think would have been parts that made the audience particularly angry with Abigail. Miller creates tension in this scene especially in the part where Mary is getting hysterical with the girls repeating every word Mary says and stamping their feet. This makes they play come alive and be more exciting for the audience. But in this act the climax of the tension is John Proctors hysterical speech; A fire, a fire is burning! I hear the boot of Lucifer, I see his filthy face! And it is my face, and yours, Danforth! For them that quail to bring men out of ignorance, as I have quailed, and as you quail now when you know in all your black hearts that this be fraud God damns our kind especially, and we will burn, we will burn together! and the stage direction of insane laughter makes even more exciting. The best of behaviour is shown from Act three onwards because the characters consciences catch up with them and they have to take responsibility for their actions. One of the best cases of this is in reverend Hale, when he arrives he seems intent on finding witchcraft; I mean to crush him utterly if he has shown his face!(When talking about the devil. Act 1) but as the play progresses Miller changes the characters views completely. He goes from the accuser to helping the accused lie and Miller does this so subtly that the audience dont feel uncomfortable about this change. In act two he is beginning to waver by going to see the Proctors even though hes not on official business. In act three he announces I denounce these proceedings, I quit this court! and in act four we hear the defining quote of this character; There is blood on my head! Can you not see the blood on my head? referring to the lives of innocent people he has taken and is now feeling the strain on his conscience. I think that the audience would probably feel that Hale is someone who just tries to do his best and would not feel the same animosity towards him as Parris. Another example of the best of human behaviour is in Rebecca Nurse. She is a small character but helps give the play depth because all of the characters lives are intertwined which makes the audience feel like the characters are more personal. Rebecca is one of the only consistent characters in The Crucible she never changes her mind or lies to save herself even when faced with extremely gruelling circumstances. She never compromises her conscience by signing a false confession neither does she turn in her friends. When asked to sign a confession she replies Why, it is a lie, it is a lie; how may I damn myself? I cannot, I cannot.(Act 4) I think the audience would have liked Rebecca because she is the sort of character who doesnt change so is someone you can get comfortable with. I myself found Rebecca to be the most responsible of all the characters in the play despite having a small part. Eventually Rebecca is hanged which I think the audience would have been shocked and angry because she is a pure soul. Another person in this situation was Giles Corey who like Rebecca chose to be crushed to death rather than get other people in trouble. The most obvious example of the best behaviour is found in John Proctor in both the third and the fourth Acts. Where Miller makes him the hero by letting him confess to his sins and become a martyr. Miller creates the hero character for Proctor by letting have one final emotion filled speech about being true to your conscience and despite his admittance of an affair with Abigail the audience would like him and feel sympathy for him. The emotion of this final scene is only really shown when it is performed because of the stage directions Miller gives is what really creates tension. At first after seeing Elizabeth he decides to confess in order to stay with his family but when he is asked to sign the confession he finally snaps and his conscience takes over. His defining speech of the whole play is this final one; Because it is my name! Because I cannot have another in my life! Because I lie and sign myself to lies! Because I am not worth the dust on the feet of them that hang! How may I live without my name? I have given my soul; leave me my name! One of the other reasons he decides to die rather than sacrifice his morality is when he sees his friends go off to be hanged and their looks of surprise at seeing him lying. Another thing he says which also contributes to the decision was this; I have three children how may I teach them to walk like men in the world, and I sold my friends? this shows that he was thinking about how his family would feel if they knew he had lied. I personally found this scene the most emotionally draining of the entire play because you really get involved and start caring about the characters and I think that final speech is the best of the entire play. This essay has discussed many things that featured in The Crucible such as conscience and the way Arthur Miller made his characters either liked or disliked. All of the characters in this play were put under extreme pressure and in these situations the best scenes in the play arise. Overall I think that the best of human behaviour was presented more strongly than the worst because the characters that have the best behaviour are more strongly presented. But saying that Arthur Miller does successfully portray the worst of behaviour also because none of his characters are two-dimensional they all his separate lives which intertwine and so you feel for all of them even those who responsible for the deaths. In my introduction I aimed to show the parallels between puritan Salem and the anti communist feelings of right wing America. I have done so. The audience at both the time this was written and in the present day would find this play both emotionally challenging and exciting. The reaction to the last scene probably would have been tears, as I myself was close to tears when watching the film version. I also have achieved the link between the interrogation of Arthur Miller over his political beliefs and the witch hunts in Salem 1692, His reaction to the hysteria and how he wrote the play in protest to the somewhat ludicrous questioning of people in Salem.

Statistical Analysis: Causes and Death and Illness

Statistical Analysis: Causes and Death and Illness Meagan Atcheson The statistics around causes of death are imperative as well as vital in determining and monitoring the health status of populations as well as for identifying critical priorities for various health systems. Most industrialized countries have effective systems in place to determine the main causes of death. In contrast to this, developing countries are not as advanced in placing such systems which proves detrimental in trying to improve the overall health of the nation. Indeed, there are vast differences in the top causes of death within developed countries versus the developing countries. This essay will compare and contrast the top five causes of death in the United States of America and in South Africa as well as provide evidence and explanations for these differences. Moreover, it will critically discuss the risk factors, health policy, disease progression and treatment advances or lack thereof with regard to particular causes in each context. Finally, it will address certain app roaches needed to improve the health of populations. The most fundamental aspect of any health policy looks at methods to maintain as well as improve the health status of a population. Defining the health of a nation as well as how health is measured is critical to any health care system (Kronenfeld, 2002). The World Health Organization defines health not only in terms of the negative definition where health is seen as the absence of disease but also incorporates physical, mental and social well being (World Health Organization, 1948). Mortality rates are the basic form of measurement needed to asses health status. By counting the number of deaths in a year and comparing it to preceding years, the health status of various populations can be determined (Ogden, 2007). Health statistics have shown that diseases, their occurrence as well as mortality rates differ from one country to the next; more specifically developed countries as opposed to developing countries (Tool Tool, 2004). Developed or industrialised countries such as the USA are typically more economically advanced with a high level of economic growth and standard of living as well as advanced technological infrastructure. In contrast to this, developing countries like South Africa have a lower standard of living, are under industrialised and have poorer economic growth (Szirmai, 2005). Ranking causes of death is an extremely useful method for representing mortality statistics (Ogden, 2007).The U.S department of health and human services released a report at the end of 2009 on the leading causes of death in the United States by age, sex and race. The top five causes death in rank order were found to be; diseases of the heart; malignant neoplasms; chronic lower respiratory diseases; cerebrovascular disease and accidents (unintentional injury). It is imperative to note the differences in ranks for age. For example the leading causes of death for infants were accidents; congenital malformations; deformations; chromosomal abnormalities and malignant neoplasms. This differed to the age group of between 2-44 years where the leading causes were unintentional injuries, homicide as well as suicide. For individuals over 45, the primary causes of mortality respectively were heart disease and cancer. Certain variations and similarities exist between the different genders. For b oth genders, heart disease and cancer were the first and second leading causes of death. The third cause for men was unintentional injury versus stroke for women. The fourth leading cause for both sexes was chronic lower respiratory disease followed by stroke for men and Alzheimer’s for women. Little deviation was found among the different races (Heron, 2012). These results remained the same for data collected in 2011 (Hoyert Xu, 2012). The South African statistical release for 2010 showed Tuberculosis (TB) to be the leading natural cause of death. The second leading cause of death was influenza and pneumonia. The third primary cause was intestinal infectious diseases followed by other forms of heart disease (not Ischaemic) and then cerebrovascular diseases. The first two causes; tuberculosis and influenza and pneumonia were the top two causes for both male and female. The third leading cause for women was cerebrovascular disease followed by intestinal infectious disease and then other forms of heart disease. This differed to that of the male group whose third leading cause of death was intestinal infectious disease followed by other forms of heart disease and then cerebrovascular disease. The age group as well as the various provinces in South Africa were included in this statistical report to illustrate slight differences in the top causes of death. In the Free State as well as in Limpopo, the leading cause of dea th was influenza and pneumonia unlike all other states where tuberculosis remained the main cause of death. The major death cause for children below the age of fifteen years was intestinal infectious disease compared to the age group 15-64 whose main reason for death was due to TB. For those aged over 65, cerebrovascular disease caused the most deaths (Statistics South Africa, 2010). Being a developing country, South African individuals face a high risk of contracting and dying from Tuberculosis. Tuberculosis is a disease where bacteria enters and invades various body tissues such as the lungs, brain and kidney. It is spread from individuals who contain the untreated, active form of the Tuberculosis bacteria through droplets releases into the air via coughing, sneezing or speaking (Wouk, 2010). Although there are numerous risk factors for TB, it mostly affects poorer individuals who are living in rural areas with a lack of affordability for transport as well as treatment, people with weak immune systems, those who lack access to Directly Observed Treatment, Short course (DOTS) as well as those who are uninsured. Furthermore, the strongest risk factor for the development of TB is HIV. These two diseases continue to have a deadly association as each drives the development of the other. Drug resistant strains of the TB bacteria is a huge risk factor leading to the e normous amounts of deaths in South Africa (Davies, 2005). Moreover, the poor health care system as well as the limited number of properly trained health workers in South Africa threatens the majority of people who contract Tuberculosis (Downing, Gwyther, Mwangi-Powell, 2012). The National Department of Health in South Africa implemented the National Tuberculosis control programme which aimed to reduce mortality due to TB as well as prevention of drug resistance development by 2005. However, the health policy surrounding TB in South Africa needs to be strengthened considerably in various areas. Firstly, public health services need to improve DOTS implementation as well as more emphasis needs to be placed on access and utilisation of health services (World Health Organization, 2009). Moreover, different approaches need to be taken in regard to the HIV on TB relationship. Furthermore, higher quality strategies are needed for better TB diagnosis and treatment (South African Department of health, 2004) Although TB is curable, it is the progression from latent TB infection to multidrug- resistant TB that results in the high mortality figures in South Africa. Individuals with latent TB infection show no signs and symptoms of the disease as it is still in the harmless stage. However, if these individuals do not receive proper treatment, reflecting majority of the cases present in South Africa, it develops into TB disease. It usually starts out with damage to lung tissue but often lands up affecting many body tissues and organs. Moreover, TB is extremely resilient and adaptable. Often in developing countries, the right combination of drugs are not taken for the right amount of time due to a large number of reasons such as poverty and this then leads to multidrug-resistant TB. If left untreated multi-drug resistant TB can be fatal (Dyer, 2010). There have been major efforts to improve TB control and treatment in South Africa. Fixed dose combination tablets (FDC’S) were introduced in 2000 in the hope of prevention of resistance and easier administration. Together with the combination tablets, directly observed treatment is enforced to ensure treatment adherence and to help prevent emergence of drug resistance (South African Department of health, 2004). Despite these efforts, the TB incidence and fatality rates still continue to increase. It is therefore not a lack of treatment that hinders South Africa from reaching their target for TB control, but rather a lack of appropriate infection control measures in public health settings together with the high prevalence of HIV that results in increased numbers of drug resistant TB cases (Weyer, 2007). Heart disease in developed countries like the United States is mostly attributed to individual behaviour and lifestyle unlike TB in South Africa. This disease can be linked to risk factors such as smoking, unhealthy diet, alcohol abuse, diabetes, lack of physical activity as well as high blood cholesterol and blood pressure. Age, heredity and gender also play a role in the development of heart disease (Brannon Feist, 2010). In contrast to developing countries, Americans face very different risk factors which can often be attributed to their fast paced and busy lifestyles. America implemented a public health action plan to prevent heart disease and stroke which addresses an urgent need for the action of prevention. This is in contrast to South Africa’s health policy that still needs to be strengthened. Public health agencies together with the general public of America are needed to help promote the national goals of preventing heart disease as support for these health programmes continue to remain low. The American health action plan aims to improve cardiovascular health through prevention, early detection as well as treatment of various risk factors. This plan also includes developing new health policies that includes innovative intervention programmes for especially high risk groups that will result in measurable impacts (U.S. department of health and human services, n.d.) Heart disease is a chronic condition that tends to get worse over time. Unlike TB, heart disease is not infectious and cannot be spread from one person to the next which is often the case in small areas such as the townships in developing countries. Heart disease is mostly a direct result of lifestyle choices. Furthermore, the progression of heart disease can become extremely unpredictable as it is different for each person. In some instances, the symptoms of the disease can remain stable over months or even years before becoming worse, while in others these symptoms may rapidly development. In America, early stages of heart disease are seen as early as age 15. Hypertension as well as other cardiovascular risk factors has all been linked to the progression of heart failure (Abraham, 2001). New treatments for heart disease have dramatically improved the life expectancy of these individuals in America. Drugs such as statins, antihypertensive agents, thrombolytic agents, anti-platelet as well as anti-coagulation therapies have all proved to be effective treatments. Moreover, novel device based therapies is an advancement in treatment that has contributed to a decline in cardiac mortality in the United States. Through being a developed country, they have access to modern genetics and genomics that will allow for more targeted use of drugs to emerge in the future which will greatly improve the effectiveness of therapy. This is in contrast to South Africa’s limited resources and modern medical advances that still allow drug resistant TB to be a major cause of death (Weisfeldt Zieman, 2007). Apart from cerebrovascular disease and some forms of heart disease, the leading causes of mortality differed significantly between the United States and South Africa. These variations can be explained by the different risk factors, health policies, disease progressions as well as treatment advances or a lack thereof between the two countries. In contrast to developed countries, developing countries have vastly different health priorities due to a diverse set of risks. The many factors such under industrialization, high unemployment rates, underdeveloped health care system as well as the low standards of living is the answer to why causes of death are so unalike. Moreover, the problems in the quality of health care need to be addressed in order to see the health of South Africans improve. In America, additional intervention programmes need to be introduced to help better the health status of the nation. Furthermore, through the comparisons of the approaches South Africa takes in regar d to Tuberculosis versus the approach to heart disease taken in America, proper explanations of the mortality cause differences can be seen. References: Abraham, W. T. (2001). Anti- adrenergic therapy in hypertensive patients with concomitant  disease. In L. Ryden (Eds.). Disease progression throughout the cardiovascular continuum. (pp. 25-26 ). Germany: Springer- Verlag Berlin Heidelberg. Brannon, L., Feist, J. (2010). Health psychology: an introduction to behaviour and health  (7th Ed.). USA: Wadsworth Cengage Learning. Davies, P.O. (2005). Risk factors for Tuberculosis. Monaldi Arch Chest Dis, 63(1), 37-46. Downing, J., Gwyther, L., Mwangi- Powell, F. (2012). Public health and palliative care: a  perspective from Africa. In L. Sallnow, S. Kumar, A.Kellehear (Eds.). International perspectives on public health and palliative care. (pp. 69- 84). Oxon: Routledge. Dyer, C.A. (2010). Biographies of disease: Tuberculosis. California: Greenwood Press. Heron, M. (2012). Deaths: Leading causes for 2009. National vital statistics reports, 61(7).  Hyattsville, MD: National Centre for Health Statistics. Hoyert, D.L., Xu, J.Q. (2012). Deaths: Preliminary data for 2011. National vital statistics  reports; vol 61 no 6. Hyattsville, MD: National Centre for Health Statistics. Kronenfeld, J.J. (2002). Health care policy: issues and trend.USA: Praeger Publishers. Ogden, J. (2007). Health Psychology (4th Ed.). England: Open University Press. South African Department of Health. (2004). The South African National Tuberculosis  Control Programme: Practical guidelines. Retrieved from http://www.kznhealth.gov.za/ Statistics South Africa. (2010). Mortality and causes of death in South Africa: findings from  death notification (P0309.3). Pretoria: Statistics South Africa. Retrieved from www.statssa.gov.za/publications/P03093/P030932010.pdf Szirmai, A. (2005). The dynamics of socio-economic development. UK: Cambridge  University Press. Toole, G., Toole, S. (2004). Essential AS Biology for OCR. UK: Nelson Thornes Ltd. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for disease control and  Prevention.(n.d.). A public health action plan to prevent heart disease and stroke. Retrieved from www.cdc.gov/dhdsp/action_plan/pdfs/action_plan_full.pdf Weisfeldt, M. L., Zieman, S.J. (2007). Advances in the prevention and treatment of  cardiovascular disease. Health Affairs, 26(1), 25-37. doi: 10.1377/hlthaff.26.1.25 Weyer, K. (2007). Case study: South Africa. Bulletin of the World Health Organization,  85(5), 325-420. World Health Organization. (1948) Preamble of the Constitution of the World Health Organisation as adopted by the International Health Conference. Geneva: Switzerland.   World Health Organization. (2009). WHO policy on TB infection control in health care  facilities. Geneva: WHO Wouk, H. (2010). Tuberculosis.NY: Marshall Cavendish Corporation. Is Globalisation Undermining State Sovereignty? Is Globalisation Undermining State Sovereignty? Is globalization undermining state sovereignty? Throughout the years it has been argued that globalization has a significant effect on state sovereignty. That ongoing debate between scholars and social scientists is trying to determine whether or not state can still maintain its own sovereignty. Weiss (1998) suggests that there are certain factors such as investments in international economy, multinational corporations and non-governmental organizations which undermine the state sovereignty. On the other hand, Krasner (2001) argues that in the past similar things such as free trade existed and state sovereignty was able to dominate. The essay will focus on defining globalization and sovereignty. Then it will observe how multinational corporations, inter-governmental organizations, open market economy and international crime can reduce state’s power and therefore undermine sovereignty. Sovereignty is a very broad term which Barkin and Cronin (1994, p.107-30) simply defines as the power of state to make and amend any law within its own state boundaries. Moreover, sovereignty is defined as the â€Å"absolute supremacy over internal affairs within its territory, absolute right to govern its people, and freedom from any external interference in the above matters† (Martinez, 1996; Wang, 2004, p.473). The state is the supreme political authority within its territory and therefore it does not recognize any higher political authority outside it. With this definition it would be easier to determine whether or not globalization affects certain aspects of it. Beekens (2003, p.130) illustrates globalization as the â€Å"world-wide interconnectedness between nation states supplemented by globalization as a process in which basic social arrangements (such as power, culture, markets, politics, rights, values, norms, ideology, identity, citizenship, and solidarity) become disembedded from their spatial context (mainly, the nation-state) because of the acceleration, massification, flexibilisation, diffusion, and expansion of transnational flows of people, products, finance, images, and information.† Therefore, first we are going to observe how economic factors of globalization – free market, increasing power of multinational corporations affect the state sovereignty. The end of the World War Two and the Cold War led to a more open world economy market to countries and individuals as a result of globalization. Therefore, international trade between countries increased significantly where foreign direct investments and multinational corporations participated too. Since there was an open free market some countries reached GDP as never seen before. For example, a drastic changes can be seen in countries such as France where the GDP export ration rose almost four times and in the United States where it doubled (Michie, 2011, p.30-40). Michie (2011, p.40-43) also mentions that these examples show us that international trade has grown with time leading to economic dependency between countries which undermine state sovereignty. This dependency gives the power of other countries to manipulate and control the economy of another country. For example, in order to attract more consumers for its goods and services, China buys US bonds to maintain the US dollar currency high. This undermines states sovereignty, because it undermines the â€Å"absolute power of a state over internal and foreign affairs within its own boundaries† (Wang, 2004, p.474-76). In this way US is dependent on China to buy their bonds. Multinational corporations and their foreign direct investments are another part of globalization which undermines state sovereignty. The investments only in the developed countries have risen from 17 to 25 percent between 1990 and 2000 which simply shows that the multinational corporations are a big part of the production and manufacturing of goods and services in few countries (Michie, 2011, p.45-50). Furthermore, between 1960s and 1970s there was an increase in foreign direct investments by EU and US multinational corporations which attracted other countries to get involved too. Strange (1996, p160-80) argues that globalization has increased the powers of multinational corporations making the state sovereignty weaker. Furthermore, Strange notes that the advancements in technology, wider communications, international trade and transportation are parts of the globalization process which is also seen as an impact on state sovereignty. For instance, states do not have full authority o ver individual businesses which operate in the free market economy. As a result of globalization there is an increased competition between international businesses and therefore, state sovereignty is undermined because it questions the power of the state over its internal affairs (Strange, 1996, p181-99). The biggest challenge which state sovereignty is facing even now is international crime. This is when the state cannot protect its citizens from external or internal affairs as for example terrorism. To prevent that governments form inter-governmental organizations. These organizations are not profit organizations and their target is to resolve concerns and problems that affect the world. Such organisation is the United Nations. A good present example of an international group which pose a threat to state sovereignty is Al Qaeda. As Aydinli (2006, p.35-45) says, the attacks on US and Spain in 2000 undermined their state sovereignty because they were not able to protect their citizens. On the other hand, in the same year the United States also intervened Iraq and Afghanistan ignoring the United Nations. This could also be seen as international crime because they ignored state sovereignty and just went into these Middle East countries blaming them for supporting terrorism. Despite the fact that the inter-governmental organizations are supposed to promote peace, sometimes they violate state sovereignty too. For example, in 1999 NATO intervened Federal Republic of Yugoslavia in order to prevent more â€Å"humanitarian suffering and more repression and violence against the civilian population† (Solana, 1999). This can be seen as an example of countries, members of NATO, trying to stop this humanitarian catastrophe. Although NATO’s actions were legal and justified, the government of Yugoslavia undermined sovereignty by putting its own citizens in danger. This contradicts to one of the aspects of state sovereignty in which the state should protect its own population. Another example is Mali. France, which is a key ally in NATO and UN, started a military campaign in Mali again the jihadists which led to an â€Å"intensive airstrikes† in order to block them (Hammond, 2013). In this case NATO affects the state sovereignty because they intervene to protect the people, whereas the state has to govern and protect its own citizens. This intervention might lead to further violations of human rights or even ethnic conflicts, even though the purpose of this intervention was to stabilize the country. Therefore, as Albala (2005) says, the actions of these inter-governmental organizations undermine the aspects of state sovereignty as they move into other state`s territory and also participate in the internal and external affairs of the state. Also the international community is currently condemning Russia for undermining the sovereignty of Ukraine. It is unclear if internal sovereignty will be possible. Furthermore, Russia will support protests against the new government even if they have to use military power. Russia has also withdrawn their loans from Ukraine making them dependent on Western financial support. At the same time, the territorial integrity of the country is partly at stake as long as pro-Russian parts of Ukraine might feel threatened by the clear pro-Western course of the new intermediate government.This can also be seen as another example of undermining state sovereignty. Globalization is not just a threat to state sovereignty, it is more like a threat to culture and national identity. For example, at no point in the history of the EU or ECC as it was called erasing borders and merging states have been seriously considered. Despite the fact that the European Union is an inter-governmental organization seeking for peace and development, it opens the borders between the member countries. Free market economy, free trade and immigration have shaped the EU more as one state than an organization. That occurs because the open boundaries lead to merging the cultures and national identity is fading away. All this can raise questions to Member states whether or not their national identities and state sovereignty are undermined. Moreover, it does undermine the state sovereignty but in a different way – throughout international law. International law has been affected by globalization in terms that it makes the international law into a global public law (Garcia, 2005, p.1-2). What it means is that globalization is actually trying to expand the â€Å"domain of justice† (Garcia, 2005) from domestic to global. An example is the European Union. When a country in the EU wants to make a law, firstly they have to follow the agreements on European Law and regulations. Garcia (2005, p3) says that â€Å"International harms to individuals are understood within a framework of harm to a state’s rights†. Simply, the state cannot claim laws as it wishes and it also has no sovereign power on internal and external affairs Furthermore, other form of international organizations are the international non-governmental organizations. They start as small community groups where some of them work also with the government, aiming to help where the government is struggling (Baylis, Smith Owens; 2011). However, these organizations have spread their work on a global scale and their influence has risen. Inter-governmental and international non-governmental organizations have one target which is global governance – where transnational actors aim to solve problems that affect more than one state. Such organizations are the Red Cross, Care International, Oxfarm International. When one of these international NGO goes into a country with a stated purpose as for example to give medical help or fight against violence as Amnesty International does in Somalia, they agree not to get politically involved in anyway. If their work is, for example, then stopped by the government who accuses them of showing a bias in whi ch they treat and expel them from the country then the NGO can complain to the UN and ask for support to continue their work. Recently, Amnesty International has requested the UN Security Council to â€Å"tighten arms control embargo on Somalia† (Amnesty International publication; 2014). Last year the UN Security Council allowed Somalia to import small arms and light weapons (Amnesty International publication; 2014)). The intergovernmental organization weakens the state sovereignty in that case because despite the fact that they have stabilized the country on first place, their actions have made the government weaker to defend its sovereignty. To summarize, we first looked at what state sovereignty and globalization mean followed by criticism about the influence of globalization over states. We saw how foreign investments by the multinational corporations and the increasing dependency between economics markets as such as the case with United States and China. State sovereignty was undermined because governments became more unstable and lost control over international businesses becoming dependent on them for proving jobs and taxes. This also undermines one of the main principles of state sovereignty which was the absolute power of the state over its internal affairs, citizens and freedom (Martinez, 1996; Wang, 2004, p.473). Globalization has also brought international crime and international organizations which undermine state sovereignty in different aspects. Terrorism as we mentioned weakens the state making it unable to protect its own citizens. Globalization has been also seen to undermine national identity and state v alues as with European Union where the European Supreme Court acts as highest law within the European Union. Since some governments cannot guarantee protection there are inter-governmental and international non-governmental organization such as NATO, Amnesty International, United Nations which intervene to help those countries such as Yugoslavia, Mali and more recently Ukraine and Somalia. Although they have been also seen to undermine state sovereignty because sometimes as with Somalia, the international organizations have even worsen the situation. With all these factors of globalization – free market economy, multinational corporations, foreign direct investments, international crime and international law it can be concluded that state’s sovereignty and control over its territory has declined throughout the years due globalization. Bibliography: Amnesty International, (2014) â€Å"UN Security Council urged to tighten arms embargo on Somalia† Press release: 04/03/2014; Available on: http://amnesty.org/en/news/un-security-council-urged-tighten-arms-embargo-somalia-2014-03-04 Last accessed: 05/03/2014 Albala, N. (2005) â€Å"‘We the peoples’, not the states†, Available on http://mondediplo.com/2005/09/06people Last Access on 04/03/2014 Aydinli, E (2013): Assessing violent nonstate actorness in global politics: a framework for analysis, Cambridge Review of International Affairs, DOI:10.1080/09557571.2013.819316 Available on: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/09557571.2013.819316#.Uxez-Pl_uSo Last Accessed on 04/03/2014 Barkin, J. and Cronin, B. (1994). The state and the nation: changing norms and the rules of sovereignty in international relations. International Organization, 48, pp 107-130. doi:10.1017/S0020818300000837. Available on: http://journals.cambridge.org/action/displayAbstract?fromPage=onlineaid=1583540fulltextType=RAfileId=S0020818300000837 Last accessed: 04/03/2014 Baylis J., Smith S. and Owens P. (2011) â€Å"The globalization of world poltics†; Oxford University press Dr. Javier Solana, (1999); Press Statement on Yugoslavia case Available on: http://www.nato.int/docu/pr/1999/p99-040e.htm Last accessed: 05/03/2014 Garcia, F. (2005) â€Å"Globalization and the Theory of International Law† International Legal Theory 11, (2005): 9-26. Available online on: http://lawdigitalcommons.bc.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1093context=lsfp Last accessed: 05/03/2014 Hammond, J. (2013) â€Å"Mali: Disregarded Lessons in ‘Humanitarian’ Intervention† Available on: http://www.jeremyrhammond.com/2013/01/23/mali-disregarded-lessons-in-humanitarian-intervention/ Last Accessed: 05/03/2014 Krasner S. SOVEREIGNTY.Foreign Policy[serial online]. January 2001;(122):20. Available from: Business Source Complete, Ipswich, MA http://web.a.ebscohost.com/ehost/detail?vid=2[emailprotected]hid=4214bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ==#db=bthAN=3934097. Accessed March 5, 2014. Michie, J. (2011), The Handbook of Globalisation, e-book, accessed 05 March 2014, http://rhul.eblib.com/patron/FullRecord.aspx?p=685074>. Strange, S. (1996). The Retreat of the State. 1st ed. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. Who is really in charge of the world economy? Not only governments, argues Susan Strange in The Retreat of the State. Big businesses, drug barons, insurers, accountants and international bureaucrats all encroach on the so-called sovereignty of the state. Professor Strange examines the implications of this rivalry and points to some new directions for research in international relations, international business and economics. Cambridge Books Online. Web. 05 March 2014.http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/CBO9780511559143 Wang, G. (2004)† The Impact of Globalization on State Sovereignty†; JF Chinese Journal of International Law; Available on: http://chinesejil.oxfordjournals.org/content/3/2/473.short Last Accessed: 04/03/2014 Weiss, L. (1998) â€Å"Themythofthepowerlessstate: governingtheeconomy in a global era†; Oxford Polity Press

Shakespeare: The Best Playwright that Ever Lived :: Biography Biographies Essays

Shakespeare: The Best Playwright that Ever Lived William Shakespeare was a supreme English poet and playwright, universally recognized as the greatest of all the dramatists. A complete, authoritative account of Shakespeare's life is lacking; much supposition surrounds relatively few facts. His day of birth is traditionally held on April 23, and he was baptized on April 24, 1564. He was the third of eight children, and was the eldest son of John Shakespeare. He was probably educated in a local grammar school. As the eldest son, Shakespeare would of taken over his father's business, but according to one account, he became a butcher because of reverses in his father's financial situation. According to another account, he became a school master. That Shakespeare was allowed considerable leisure time in his youth is suggested by the fact that his plays show more knowledge of hunting and hawking than do those of other dramatists. In 1582, he married Anne Hathaway. He is supposed to have left Stratford after he was caught poaching in a deer park. Shakespeare apparently arrived in London about 1588 and by 1592 had attained success as a playwright. The publication of Venus and Adonis, The Rape of Lucrece and of his Sonnets established his reputation as a poet in the Renaissance manner. Shakespeare's modern reputation is based mainly on the 38 plays he wrote, modified, or collaborated on. Shakespeare's professional life in London was marked by a number of financially advantageous arrangements that permitted him to share in the profits of his acting company, the Chamberlain's Men, and its two theaters, the Globe and the Blackfriars. His plays were given special presentation at the courts of Queen Elizabeth I and King James I. After about 1608, Shakespeare's dramatic production lessened and he spent more time in Stratford. There he established a family in and imposing house, the New Place, and became a leading local citizen. He died on April 23, 1616, and was buried in the Stratford church. Although the precise date of many of Shakespeare's plays is in doubt, his dramatic career is divided into four periods: (1) the period up to 1594, (2) the years from 1594 to 1600, (3) the years from 1600 to 1608, (4) the period after 1608. In all periods, the plots of his plays were frequently drawn from chronicles, histories, or earlier fiction. Shakespeare: The Best Playwright that Ever Lived :: Biography Biographies Essays Shakespeare: The Best Playwright that Ever Lived William Shakespeare was a supreme English poet and playwright, universally recognized as the greatest of all the dramatists. A complete, authoritative account of Shakespeare's life is lacking; much supposition surrounds relatively few facts. His day of birth is traditionally held on April 23, and he was baptized on April 24, 1564. He was the third of eight children, and was the eldest son of John Shakespeare. He was probably educated in a local grammar school. As the eldest son, Shakespeare would of taken over his father's business, but according to one account, he became a butcher because of reverses in his father's financial situation. According to another account, he became a school master. That Shakespeare was allowed considerable leisure time in his youth is suggested by the fact that his plays show more knowledge of hunting and hawking than do those of other dramatists. In 1582, he married Anne Hathaway. He is supposed to have left Stratford after he was caught poaching in a deer park. Shakespeare apparently arrived in London about 1588 and by 1592 had attained success as a playwright. The publication of Venus and Adonis, The Rape of Lucrece and of his Sonnets established his reputation as a poet in the Renaissance manner. Shakespeare's modern reputation is based mainly on the 38 plays he wrote, modified, or collaborated on. Shakespeare's professional life in London was marked by a number of financially advantageous arrangements that permitted him to share in the profits of his acting company, the Chamberlain's Men, and its two theaters, the Globe and the Blackfriars. His plays were given special presentation at the courts of Queen Elizabeth I and King James I. After about 1608, Shakespeare's dramatic production lessened and he spent more time in Stratford. There he established a family in and imposing house, the New Place, and became a leading local citizen. He died on April 23, 1616, and was buried in the Stratford church. Although the precise date of many of Shakespeare's plays is in doubt, his dramatic career is divided into four periods: (1) the period up to 1594, (2) the years from 1594 to 1600, (3) the years from 1600 to 1608, (4) the period after 1608. In all periods, the plots of his plays were frequently drawn from chronicles, histories, or earlier fiction.