Research Paper on Steroids in Sports Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Research Paper on Steroids in Sports - Essay Example Needless to say, there is tremendous ground breaking pressure on athletes and sports representatives to make sure they bring home the gold; otherwise they might have to suffer dire consequences. With all the stakes that are involved, it is only prudent from the athlete’s point of view to make sure that they are the best in their competitive lot by hook or by crook. This is where the abuse of medicine to enhance their performance comes in; with evidently positive intentions, sports are now infiltrated with infamous scandals relating to doping and usage of steroids to enhance performance. The essay primarily discusses a brief history of the usage of steroids in sports, followed by an analysis of the reasons for the increase and the repercussions that athletes face after failing the test. This essay also analyzes if the repercussions are barring the use of steroids or if there is a need of a stricter policy to ensure that steroids are not abused in sports. Steroids: Steroids are similar to certain hormones present in our body and they act like those hormones and sometimes are introduced artificially in our body. The body in itself is able to produce this hormone to fight stress and helps in promoting growth and development. Therefore, they are a very important part of human body. Introduction of these hormones in the human body will help in increasing the development and stamina of athletes. Especially when people are injured, steroids can help in increase the speed of growth and development of the human body. Therefore, they are a complete hit in the sports arena and are allegedly used by athletes to increase man power and stamina to endure the immense physical strain they put their body through. History: One of the first cases of the usage of steroids in sports was reported in 1954. The Soviets, in the World Weightlifting championship, dominated more than anybody and it was revealed that they were given testosterone injections to enhance their sports perf ormance. However, enhancements had been tried before too; citations go back to Greece. It has been observed that athletes have taken extreme measures and followed stringent regimes in order to increase their physical efficiency and fitness nearing a tournament. Although, one might not want to judge the motives behind this action of theirs, it has been observed that more and more corruption came into sports are the financial stakes of the tournaments were increased. The more the prize money was, the more there was a chance for the athletes to experiment with medicine. Therefore, many athletes from as far as Greek times have been known to take extreme measures like eating meat for months before a tournament, in order to increase the presence of testosterone in their body. The story is not very different today; it might actually feel pretty similar to many of us. We are bombarded with dope tests and other kinds of drug tests that are found negative in players from all kinds of sports, from all over the world. The stakes are so high that even after extreme punishments, sportsmen and sportswomen still find the idea of pushing their body to a new level artificially through medicine. Steroids in High School Sports: The use of drugs that enhance physical capabilities is not only restricted to international sports. At the high school level sports, this problem is increasing, or so is quoted by the

Two Methods for teaching Third Grade students to appreciate Art Essay

Two Methods for teaching Third Grade students to appreciate Art - Essay Example This will enable kinesthetic learning which is so essential for this age-group. A hands-on approach to art in which the students not only look at different forms of art but also take part in creating them will enable the imagination of the children to be captured. The use of water to thin paint can introduce various elements of the basic science curriculum to the children. How water flows, what happens to it when other materials are put in it and what happens to it and other materials when it dries can be made an integral part of this learning experience. This will not only enable the students to understand how paint works but also that "science" is in fact fun and relevant to their actual lives. In the context of third-graders, this can be presented to them as how they can use the water in so many different ways. A second technique for the teaching of art is to introduce the children to the art of many different cultures, and have them try to create their own versions of it. Thus children may be encouraged to bring in pictures from their own culture if the classroom is diverse enough to enable this exercise. The third-graders will learn about other cultures (an essential element of the wider curriculum) and also be self-empowered through discovering that they can produce their own versions of that culture's art. As Gelineau (2003) suggests, the arts can provide opportunities for creative expression and self-fulfillment. The arts can and should be taught for their own sake as legitimate areas of study, but their link within the wider curriculum can also be stressed. Thus, as has been shown in this brief discussion, areas of the curriculum as diverse as science and cultural studies can be brought into the study of art. Most of all, the children should be taught that the appreciation of art is enjoyable, hopefully a lesson that will bring them a lifetime of pleasure in discovering the arts. _______________________________________ Works Cited Gelineau, Phyllis. Integrating the Arts Across the Elementary School Curriculum. Wadsworth, New York: 2003.

Are Ghosts An Illusion Of The Mind Philosophy Essay

Are Ghosts An Illusion Of The Mind Philosophy Essay Ghosts are just one of the many subtopics that reside within the topic of paranormal. Paranormal experiences are studied using parapsychology: a scientific approach to supposedly paranormal experiences. With the use of H. J. Irwins brilliant book called, An Introduction to Parapsychology Third Edition, and Bobby Elgees article called, Evidence of the Paranormal and Ghosts, we are able to deduce a theoretically sound explanation of what is paranormal and since when has the topic been studied. Then, we analyze the survival hypothesis and the ability of a soul to live outside the body. After, we proceed to the definition of ghosts and their usual whereabouts while setting the conditions that they usually appear in as well as to who they appear. Finally, we go on to claiming that these experiences are not really ghosts, but either hallucinations or just simply paranormal due to the witnesses wild conclusion that it couldnt be anything other than a ghost. Ghosts: An Illusion of the Mind Ghosts are not what you think they are, far from it. They arent the friendly little ghost you see in Casper, nor are they the Bloody Baron from SpongeBob Squarepants who haunts the ocean for eternity. They might not even be anything at all, just a word people exploit to an unknown object which might have a logical explanation. Yet, most cultures in the world believe in the body having a soul which like the heart, can exist and survive in another body. Yet, even if such an idea is generally believe by a large population of the world, it may not be true. Thought or belief proves nothing, for if it were, then a group could believe in radioactive helicopter bunnies and it would be fact. Yet, people need proof, therefore, to believe ghosts, we need proof that they exist. Life isnt neither what people see in movies, read in books nor see in pictures. Therefore, neither are ghosts. In order to prove ghosts dont exist, we have to analyze the parapsychological and the paranormal, the survival theory, the situations in which ghost usually appear and how most experiences are most likely fakes. According to Bobby Elgee, the word paranormal simply means not scientifically explainable.' (Elgee, 2009, pg 1) Meanwhile, parapsychology is known as the study of apparent anomalies of behavior and experience that exist apart from currently known explanatory mechanisms that account for organism-environment and organism-organism information and influence flow (Irwin, 1999, pg 1). Therefore, it is the commutation of a being to another, or a being to a surrounding. In other words, parapsychology is using a scientific approach to study experiences that may be paranormal and to determine whether or not the evident paranormal quality of a given class of parapsychological experience is authentic or ontologically real. (Irwin, 1999, pg 9) According to Irwin, recorded instances of parapsychological experiences of course may be found among all cultures and in all historic periods. (Irwin, 1999, pg 13) Yet, the testing of such experiences for accuracy and authenticity was slower to emerge. Some, such as Henry More and Joseph Glanvill showed themselves alert to the possibility of fraud, delusion, and unreliable observation, but their views more religious than scientific as they were endeavoring to ascertain the earthly presence of the devil and diabolical forces. (Irwin, 1999, pg 14) It was later that Francis Bacon made a call for objective scrutiny of parapsychological experiences (Irwin, 1999, pg 14) which was more scientific than More and Glanvill, but at the time society was not receptive to such a view and Bacons arguments went unheeded. (Irwin, 1999, pg 14) Then, a center in England called the Society for Psychical Research where parapsychologists are united in their conviction that the objective investigation of pa rapsychological phenomena was called for, despite the prevailing disinterest in such research among the established divisions of science. (Irwin, 1999, pg 13) Even today, most of society disregards the subject as scientific, yet parapsychology is under taken as a scientific endeavor regardless of its subject matter, flaws in any of its research procedures, and the skeptical rhetoric of its critics. (Irwin, 1999, pg 2) Therefore, Irwin states that, All ESP experiences thus are parapsychological, but we require proof that any of them could be paranormal. (Irwin, 1999, pg 2) How do parapsychologists know that an experience is truly paranormal? According the Elgee, Competent paranormal investigators will attempt to rule out the anomaly (Elgee, 2009, pg 1) or anything that seems abnormal or irregular. If someone captures a photo of a strange orb or mist, parapsychologists would ask all questions possible in order to rule out irregularities such as: is it a reflection? Is it a bug? Is it dust? Is it condensation on the lens of the camera? Is it a problem with the developing and/or printing process? (Elgee, 2009, pg 1) Yet, according to Irwin, parapsychologists focus of study is purely a matter of appearance, of how an experience seems to be. (Irwin, 1999, pg 2) Therefore, even if the survival hypothesis proves not to provide a legitimate basis for their conceptual integration, each of these experiences appears to entail the existence of a nonphysical or spiritual self (Irwin, 1999, pg 9) thereby, the experience is parapsychological. The authenticity of the experience relates to the question of whether the issue of underlying processes concerns the question of how? (Irwin, 1999, pg 9) For it to be paranormal, the question of must be raised. How is this possible? How did this come here? How did it happen? If the question of how cannot be answered, it is hence called paranormal. Yet, there are groups today that are causing a steadfast declination in the belief of the paranormal. They are damaging the credibility of legitimate and accomplished paranormal researchers and parapsychologists by posting photographs that are easily dismissed as well-known and easily identifiable camera malfunctions and other artifacts of the photographic process. (Elgee, 2009) If people keep on claiming that every small malfunction is an apparition or paranormal experience, then nobody would believe if a true paranormal experience emerged. It would be the boy who called wolf all over again, except with ghosts, orbs, mists and many other strange paranormals. According to Irwin, the survival hypothesis concerns the notion of postmortem survival, that is, that a disembodied consciousness or some such discarnate element of human personality might survive bodily death at least for a time. (Irwin, 1999, pg 175) Simply stated, the survival hypothesis is the notion that there is some element of human existence that survives death. (Irwin, 1999, pg 8) For an apparition or spirit to appear, it has to be able to survive outside the body. Due to the fact that apparitions, ghosts as a matter of fact, can be of the living, we can assume that survival does not necessarily imply immortality or eternal existence (Irwin, 1999, pg 175) after death of the body, but more of the soul being able to survive outside the body for a limited time. Therefore, when comprehending an experience in which an apparition is involved, parapsychologists must be able to believe that a disembodied consciousness or some such discarnate element of human personality might surviv e bodily death at least for a time. (Irwin, 1999, pg 175) Due to implications of an existence after death, the survival hypothesis has obvious religious connotations. (Irwin, 1999, pg 175) Yet, since the topic is being studied from a scientific point of view, these are of no concern. Therefore, when looking at the topic from a scientific point of view, we ask questions. In order to analyze, the first step is to ask questions in order to be able to understand all aspects of the situation. Becker asks, is there a nonphysical element of human existence that can separate from the physical body, can survive organic death, can reattach its organization as an integral personality after death, can appear before and haunt the living, [and] can be born again in another body? (Becker, 1993, pg 9) Yet, it cannot be scientifically proven that there is a life after death since there is no evidence. That is a question of faith at this point in time since there is no scientific evidence of the exis tence of ghosts or an afterlife. (Elgee, 2009) Therefore, we have to assume accordingly that in case of a life after death, we could thereby presume a ghost to be real. Yet, until then, all suggestions are merely that and nothing else. A ghost is a type of apparition. According to Irwin, an apparition is encountered in a perceptual-like experience and relates to a person or animal that is not physically present, with physical means of communication being ruled out. (Irwin, 1999, pg 243) Therefore, for it to be an apparition there has to be evidence that the figure is not there and has no possible means of a connection to the witness. Yet, Irwin states that it is held to be pointless to speak of apparitions unless we mean this term to refer to the hypothesis of an objective entity. (Irwin, 1999, pg 243) He goes on to say the having defined the term thus, it is up to parapsychologists to ascertain if these hypothesized objective entities actually exist. (Irwin, 1999, pg 243) Therefore, it is up to parapsychologists to study all rational explanations until there are no explanations, naming the experience as paranormal, but not necessarily an apparition. As Eglee states, If weve done a good job ruling out everything, w e may just be left with something paranormal. Thats it. (Elgee, 2009) We cannot call something unexplainable by a name other than paranormal, or seemingly an apparition. Otherwise, it would be metaphorical to calling someone you dont know Bob. You may assume it to be Bob, but he is just an unknown somebody until evidence proves otherwise. One problem that could be raised against any definition of the apparition (Irwin, 1999, pg 243) is that it could be a hallucination. Unless witnesses by more than one sanitary person, an apparition could be a persons mind playing tricks on the so-called experient. Therefore, parapsychologists have gone from studying the apparition to studying the apparitional experience in order to adopt a phenomenological approach (Irwin, 1999, pg 244) in the field of study. According to Irwin, so-called ghosts are recurrent haunting apparitions, that is, the same figure is witnessed in the same location on a number of occasions often by a number of different experients. (Irwin, 1999, 250) Here, we witness Irwin suggesting that for the figure to be a ghost, it has to be seen in the same location, more than once and by different witnesses. He also adds that some ghosts reportedly perform the same actions in the same location on each occasion they are experienced. (Irwin, 1999, pg 244) He states that they appear real and solid as well as that their appearance changes as the experient moves around it. They occlude objects they move in front of and are occluded by objects they move behind. (Irwin, 1999, pg 244) He also includes instances in which they may cast a shadow or when the experient may perceive their reflection in a mirror. (Irwin, 1999, 244) This disproves the transparent misty forms popularized in fiction (Irwin, 1999, 244) Irwin states that most figures are experienced within 10 feet of the subject and in the majority of cases (à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦) the figure is not recognized by the experient. (Irwin, 1999, pg 247) If an experience is defined as paranormal, is truly justifiable to be able to call the irregularity a ghost? Even Elgee proclaims, To take the next step and call a possibly paranormal photograph a picture of a ghost is a leap of faith that I, personally, cant swallow. A person can certainly make that statement, but at that point it becomes an opinion, a statement based on belief and faith. (Elgee, 2009) He goes on to proclaim that, At that point, I can choose what I believe. Theres simply no evidence backing it up. (Elgee, 2009) Even in spirit communication there are points where the truth simply depends on faith. The medium could be lying, unless it is one of the rare instances where the medium received some skill the personality demonstrably possessed while alive but which the medium himself/herself does not have. (Irwin, 1999, pg 177) Ghost recognition is simply to irrational to be studied scientifically. As Elgee proclaims, ghost hunting doesnt lend itself to a well-controlled scientific experiment. (Elgee, 2009) He goes on to state that, The methodologies are weak, the equipment used was never originally designed to detect ghosts, and it is nearly impossible to replicate the results. (Elgee, 2009) Therefore, how can it be proved that ghosts exist with the use of insufficient methods and equipment that was not made for ghost hunting? Even Irwin states that, in no way is there any presumption here of the existence of the paranormal even though many contemporary parapsychologists (à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦) actually regard parapsychology as the study of the paranormal. (Irwin, 1999, pg 1) If someone who has spent most of his life studying the paranormal refuses to proclaim the existence of it, then how can we believe the many who claim without proof that a minor irregularity is something major such as the ghost of dead perso n? Are there really such things as ghosts due to the fact that most of the apparitions seen are dead? According to Irwin, about 70% of recognized apparitions are of people whom the experient knew to be dead. (Irwin, 1999, pg 247) He goes on to proclaim that the number of ghost an experient witnesses may vary with the age of the individual or more precisely, with the number of deceased persons the individual knew. (Irwin, 1999, pg 247) Therefore, it assumed that the more dead people you know, the more likely you are able to see ghosts. Is it truly ghosts? Or is it the mind playing memories of actions you have seen the diseased performing in a certain place every time you pass by. For example, you see your dead grandmother planting flowers in the garden every time you walk by on a visit. Most experients are likely to lie or jump to conclusions, therefore, we can presume that the operation of fraud (à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦) remain potential interpretations (Irwin, 1999, pg 177) of such proclamations as the sightings of ghosts or other apparitions. It might even be a story used to increase the experients reputation in order to make him/her more interesting. One of Irwins students reported the experience of strolling along a deserted beach and feeling someone walking beside her. (Irwin, 1999, pg 247) Most of humanity gets the same feeling while walking alone, especially in the dark, yet, usually, there is no one there and it is a trick of the mind. The student goes on to proclaim, that she did not see or hear anything to indicate there was something there (Irwin, 1999, pg 247), yet, the sense of a presence was very strong and she felt very comfortable with it. (Irwin, 1999, pg 247) Could it not have been a cool breeze that caused the student to feel comfortable and, assuming it was warm since she was on the beach, the breeze was strong due to the oceans current? No, the student jumped to the conclusion that it was an apparition or spirit, but unfortunately, the student has no proof. Another experience is of one totally deaf man described hearing the rustle of an apparitional figures dress. (Irwin, 1999, pg 247) Is it really true, or is it the yearning of the man to actually hear something, that his mind played tricks on him? Since most experients whom are able to witness many ghosts or apparitions have known many deceased, could it not be assumed that it is just the mind projecting an image of that we wish to see? A similar analogy would be that of a man trapped in a desert seeing a mirage of a lake. What we see, is simply what we wish to see and nothing more. By analyzing the parapsychological and the paranormal, the survival theory, the situations in which ghosts usually appear and how most of those experiences are easily proven fakes, we have come to the conclusion that it is impossible for ghosts to truly exist unless evidence prove otherwise. Even if, later on, experients actually turn out to have a sixth sense that could perceive the dead, could it not be just that: a sixth sense?

The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz :: essays research papers

Question #3: Duddy hides his insecurities from himself and others. He is afraid to ask his father if his mother had liked him. What does this reveal about Duddy? Why do we often hide our fears? Two thousand years ago, Jesus had said,"Man does not live by bread alone." This is true, for other than physiological needs, man also has other basic necessities. As outlined in an article written by Professor A. H. Maslow called "A Theory of Human Motivation", these basic necessities include a person’s desire for security, love, esteem and self-actualization. Thus, when Duddy hides his fears from others and himself, he is only pursuing a sense of safety, which is one of the human fundamental needs. A person’s self-projected image is very important. We often hide our own fears because we do not want to acknowledge our dreads. We are afraid that if we show our dreads, our images as great persons will be ruined. People want to feel important, significant and superior; people do not want to feel inferior, subordinate and insignificant. We are afraid that if we concede our fears, others will dismiss us as unimportant. This is even more true for an ambitious young man like Duddy. He springs from humble beginnings, but clearly, he is very eager to become a successful and powerful man. "...his bony cheeks were criss-crossed with scratches as he shaved twice daily in his attempt to encourage a beard." This clearly indicates to the readers that Duddy wants and tries to be someone that he is not. He wants himself and others to think that he is of great significance. The fact that his friends, family and others reject him make his self-projected image even more preponderan t. He must convince himself and others that he is a very important figure and he does this by denying his insecurities. Duddy is not a very well-liked figure in the novel. He arouses readers’ sympathy because his family and friends do not appreciate him. There is much evidence of this throughout the novel. Perhaps the best illustration of this is when Duddy returns from St. Agathe with six expensive sport shirts for Max as a gift, but only to find out that his father is not interested in the gift. Duddy is not loved in his family, yet he needs love desperately. Since his father, uncle and brother do not love him, his desire for love is projected onto his dead mother. The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz :: essays research papers Question #3: Duddy hides his insecurities from himself and others. He is afraid to ask his father if his mother had liked him. What does this reveal about Duddy? Why do we often hide our fears? Two thousand years ago, Jesus had said,"Man does not live by bread alone." This is true, for other than physiological needs, man also has other basic necessities. As outlined in an article written by Professor A. H. Maslow called "A Theory of Human Motivation", these basic necessities include a person’s desire for security, love, esteem and self-actualization. Thus, when Duddy hides his fears from others and himself, he is only pursuing a sense of safety, which is one of the human fundamental needs. A person’s self-projected image is very important. We often hide our own fears because we do not want to acknowledge our dreads. We are afraid that if we show our dreads, our images as great persons will be ruined. People want to feel important, significant and superior; people do not want to feel inferior, subordinate and insignificant. We are afraid that if we concede our fears, others will dismiss us as unimportant. This is even more true for an ambitious young man like Duddy. He springs from humble beginnings, but clearly, he is very eager to become a successful and powerful man. "...his bony cheeks were criss-crossed with scratches as he shaved twice daily in his attempt to encourage a beard." This clearly indicates to the readers that Duddy wants and tries to be someone that he is not. He wants himself and others to think that he is of great significance. The fact that his friends, family and others reject him make his self-projected image even more preponderan t. He must convince himself and others that he is a very important figure and he does this by denying his insecurities. Duddy is not a very well-liked figure in the novel. He arouses readers’ sympathy because his family and friends do not appreciate him. There is much evidence of this throughout the novel. Perhaps the best illustration of this is when Duddy returns from St. Agathe with six expensive sport shirts for Max as a gift, but only to find out that his father is not interested in the gift. Duddy is not loved in his family, yet he needs love desperately. Since his father, uncle and brother do not love him, his desire for love is projected onto his dead mother.

Literary Device Essay

Bianca Lynch Literary device essay In the novel At First Sight by Nicholas Sparks He uses mood to help you understand the main character, this also helps you to empathize with his problems and correlate to how they may feel. Another literary device he uses to help you connect to the novel is imagery; he paints an elaborated picture of the town Jeremy Marsh now lives in with his new wife Lexi. The Author describes Boone Creek, a small town in NC Jeremy Marsh has recently moved to for his fiance Lexi Darnell, as a small country hick town that anyone coming from NYC would be ashamed to call home. As Jeremy starts to feel more at home, His perspective of the town is changed. It changes from being a hick town to somewhere refreshing where he could see himself settling down with Lexi and their Daughter to come he expresses this early on in ch. Four of the novel, â€Å"The last month in Boone creek, boring as it had been, was actually†¦refreshing† (Jeremy pg 52). In fact he gets so used to the town that when he went back home to NY for his bachelor party he felt out of place, as if something just didn’t fit. His brothers and best friend Alvin criticized his clothes, the â€Å"lumberjack† shirt Lexi bought him. Although Jeremy always did consider himself a somewhat â€Å"stylish† man and if he was still living in NY would have never been seen in those clothes by wearing it made him feel somehow connected to Lexi and his new home Boone Creek. As I read this novel I pictured a clean cut New Yorker moving so a small country town and becoming lost in all the small town gossip and unfamiliar country ways. † They’ll talk behind our backs, they’ll gossip, and it’ll take folks along time to forget that we ‘lived in sin’† (Lexi pg. 4) Lexi told Jeremy when trying to explain to him why they couldn’t live together before getting married. What Jeremy could not become accustomed to was the constant gossip about other people’s lives, although this did go on in the city it wasn’t as bad because new Yorkers don’t have enough time in the day to just sit around and talk about other people’s lives. Another literary device Nicholas Sparks used to absorb the readers attention is mood. Throughout the whole first half of the novel I was left in suspense s to how Jeremy and Lexis relationship would turn out. In the first four chapters the author tries to get the reader to think that there may be some kind of unfaithfulness going on between Lexi and Jeremy on Lexi’s part. Jeremy goes to Lexis job early one day to surprise her and she wasn’t there and did not mention getting off early to him beforehand. When he went to look for her he found her on the bench that overlooked the river with Rodney, her childhood love,† until , that is they shifted on the bench, and he then realized they were holding hands. (Jeremy pg. 73), this along with many other unexplained disappearances by Lexi leads to the suspense in the novel. As I read the end when lexi dies after labor it puts me in a doleful mood. With Jeremy mourning his wife’s death and the thought of their baby girl not having a mother in her life, he refuses to go see his daughter; in fact he said he never wanted to see her. Since Lexi died during Claries birth Jeremy feels animosity towards her, when asked if he saw her yet he said no. â€Å"Jeremy turned away. He didn’t want to heart that, didn’t want to hear anything about the baby†¦would he ever be happy again? †(Jeremy pg 258) Doris, Lexi’s grandmother finally convinces him to go see her, â€Å"And in that instance, while staring at his daughter through a thousand tears, he fell in love and wanted nothing more than to hold Claire forever. † (Narrator pg 263). Jeremy learns to accept Lexis death and accept the gift she left behind, Claire. Although the novel jumps from suspense to love to distressing times Nicholas Sparks still manages to consume the readers attention by using mood and imajery.

Positive and Negative Reinforcements

Positive and Negative Reinforcement Positive Reinforcement Positive and Negative Reinforcement What are Positive Reinforcement and Negative Reinforcemens? Positive and negative reinforcement are used in most of the three theories. Negative reinforcement is used in behaviorism, where it involves the removal of an unpleasant stimulus when a desired behavior occurs. Positive Reinforcement is a technique used to increase desired behavior and is used in operant conditioning.Positive reinforcement is offering of desirable effects or consequences for a behavior with the intention of increasing desired behavior. Positive and Negative reinforcement are used or used in the theories of learning whether it is innate or learned behavior (King 2010). Positive Reinforcement and Skinners experiment Skinner experimented using positive reinforcement, with a rat and came to the conclusion that with a stimulus or positive reinforcement a rat can learn to receive food by pressing a bar. With Skinners exp eriments with the rat he discovered law of effect.Skinners approach to operant conditioning involved the â€Å"Law of Effect† stating that behavior followed by positive outcomes is strengthened and that behaviors followed by negative outcomes are weakened. This means that positive outcomes for behaviors are strengthening to an individual and negative outcomes weaken the behavior of the individual, therefore receiving a positive reinforcement or reward will increase the likelihood of the behavior occurring (King, 2010). Shaping Shaping is one of the first steps of operant conditioning, which is rewarding approximations of a desired behavior.An example the book gives is a rat can be shaped or trained to press a bar to eat. It is not likely for the rat to receive food when being placed in the â€Å"Skinner box†. The experimenter began to give the rat food pellets when the rat is close to the bar. The rat begins to gain the reward and continues to press the bar, which is P ositive reinforcement. Later the experimenter only rewards the rat with a pellet when rat is 2inches from the bar. After rewarding for being within 2inches the rat will have to touch the bar for reward, leading to the rat, pressing he bar and receiving food. When the rat presses bar that’s where reinforcement comes in, which is the process by which a rewarding stimulus or event following a particular behavior increases the probability that the behavior will happen again, the rat now sees that if it presses the bar it receives food, therefore the rat continues to press the bar to receive food. The behavior continues to happen due to the stimulus of food, which is reinforcement (King, 2010). Positive and Negative Reinforcement There is positive and negative reinforcement within operant conditioning.Positive reinforcement is getting a positive result from the stimulus; in turn a negative reinforcement is a behavior of doing something due to a negative stimulus. There are two typ es of reinforcement primary and secondary reinforcement. Primary reinforcement is innate which is not learned or conditioned Secondary reinforcement (King, 2010). Generalization, Discrimination, and Extinction The next 3 key concept of classical conditioning is generalization, discrimination, and extinction. First is generalization which is performing a positive reinforced behavior in a different situation.An example of generalization is having three classes and deciding to study for one of the classes every night. Eventually an individual will begin to study every night in all three of their classes. The second discrimination is responding appropriately to stimuli that signal that a behavior will or will not be reinforced. The book gives an example of a restaurant that gives student discounts if the student shows there student identification card and how if someone who is not a student shows their identification card might get a puzzled look.The last is extinction, which is a decre ase in the frequency of a behavior when the behavior is no longer reinforced. Extinction is without the same stimuli and the reinforcement ceases to exist (King, 2010). Schedules of Positive and Negative Reinforcement The patterns that determine when a behavior will be reinforced positively or negatively are schedules of reinforcement, which can be negative and positive reinforcement. The four different types of schedules are; variable interval, fixed interval, variable ratio, and fixed ratio. Variable-interval is a timetable where behavior is reinforced after a certain amount of time has went by.A fixed interval applies to procrastination which is when the first behavior is reinforced after a fixed amount of time has passed. An example of fixed interval is a kindergartener that does not get a bad check mark all week receives candy at the end of the week. A fixed ratio reinforces a behavior after a set number of behaviors. Fixed ratio can be applied to the lottery, because you never know when you will win. The last is variable ratio that is when behaviors are rewarded an average number of times but on an unpredictable basis (King, 2010). Punishment Punishment is a consequence that decreases the likelihood that a behavior will occur.Operant Conditioning consists of two types of punishment positive and negative. Positive punishment is presentation of an unpleasant stimulus following a given behavior in order to decrease the frequency of that behavior. Yelling at your child until they clean their room would be an example of positive punishment, because if they clean their room the yelling will stop. Negative punishment is the opposite the removal of a positive stimulus following a given behavior in order to decrease the frequency of that behavior. Negative reinforcement can be telling your child if you don’t clean your room I will be taking your phone away.You will be removing the cell phone if they don’t clean their room, therefore it is more likel y for that child to clean their room. Both positive and negative reinforcement are used in punishment (King, 2010). Positive, Negative Reinforcement, and Timing Whether positive reinforcement or negative reinforcement timing is an important aspect in reinforcement and punishment. Immediate reinforcement is better than delayed reinforcement because delayed reinforcement means that an individual has to wait for their reward (reinforcement) and for young children that can be hard to comprehend.Immediate punishment is more effective with young children because if you delay their punishment the child is more likely to act that behavior again. The last type is immediate with delayed reinforcement and punishment. The book Experience Psychology gives an example of the three; â€Å"an individual putting off going to the dentist to avoid a punisher, such as pain, but waiting could contribute to greater pain later. Applied behavior analysis is applying operant conditioning to change human beh avior. This analysis looks for rewards that are creating bad behavior and enhances rewards to gain good behavior. King, 2010). † Three Theories Together Behaviorism, operant conditioning, and classical conditioning are different theories on how individuals learn and use positive or negative reinforcement. Behaviorism focuses on observable behavior solely, uses negative reinforcement and that is what makes it different from the other theories. Classical conditioning has two stimuli; (King, 2010) an example of classical conditioning is a child smelling a beautiful flower and is stung by a bee within the flower.Classical conditioning uses negative reinforcement, because it teaches the child that that flower caused the pain and they are more likely not to touch the flower again. The child associates the pain with the flower and is now fearful of the flower. Each theory has good and bad points, but my thought is behavior is learned with rewards, therefore human behavior is better w ith some sort of reward such as positive or negative (reinforcement) (King, 2010). Conclusion Positive and Negative Reinforcement Positive and negative reinforcement are used in behaviorism, classical conditioning, and operant conditioning.Many believe one works better than the other, but it depends on the situation whether negative or positive reinforcement will be used. I believe that Positive reinforcement is the best, because getting a reward makes an individual more likely to increase the desired behavior. Negative reinforcement to me can be stressful to an individual, because if they don’t do what they are supposed to do something could be taken from them (King, 2010). References King, L. (2010) Experience psychology: McGraw-Hill, Avenue of Americas. New York, NY 10020. (p. 167-177).

Managerial and Personal Effectiveness in Human Resources Management The WritePass Journal

Managerial and Personal Effectiveness in Human Resources Management Introduction Managerial and Personal Effectiveness in Human Resources Management ]. Douglas McGregor, J. C.-G., 2006. The Human Side Of Enterprise. McGraw-Hill Professional. Herzberg, F., 1987. One More Time: How Do You Motivate Employees? HBR, September. Katz, R., 1974. Skills of an Effective Administrator. Havard Business Review. Lindner, J. R., n.d. Understanding Employee Motivation. Journal Editorial Office. Malik, F., 2010. Productions and Operations Management. 1.1 ed. s.l.:s.n. Pat hargreaves, P. J., 2000. The human resource development handbook.Kogan Page Publishers. Schein, E. H., 1978. Career dynamics: matching individual and organizational needs. Addison-Wesley Pub. Co. Srivastava, M. Sinha, A. K., 2004. Individual Characteristic for Managerial Effectiveness in a Competitive Environment: An Exploration. Conference on Global Competition Competitiveness of Indian Corporate, pp. 119-131. Sutton, R. I. Ford, L. H., 1982. Problem-Solving Adequacy in Hospital Subunits. Human Relations, Volume 35, pp. 675-701. [1] http://books.google.com.pk/books/about/Career_dynamics.html?id=UyqB19IEM5gCredir_esc=y [2] joe.org/joe/1998june/rb3.php [3] http://books.google.com.pk/books/about/The_human_side_of_enterprise.html?id=0Td-U8yTjVECredir_esc=y [4] http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1744-6570.1987.tb00605.x/pdf

buy custom Self-Assessment Portfolio essay

buy custom Self-Assessment Portfolio essay Self-assessment helps an individual to evaluate his/her achievements in a given period. To write this portfolio, I did five tests: personality, motivation, team player, communication and leadership ones. Particular attributes of people define what they can do best and how they handle issues. In this self-assessment portfolio, I reflected the results obtained from assessment tests and evaluate how the results will apply in my business career. Results of the first test show that I have an ESTJ personality. It means that I am an extroverted person with honesty and good administrative skills. By being an extrovert, I am able to communicate with other people and learn from them. Social skills help a lot in business management since a person can interact with all the stakeholders of an organization. By interplaying with customers one can identify problems as soon as they happen. My personality proves that I am an assertive person when it comes to making decisions. This quality means that I am confident of actions that I take (ESTJ personality, n.d.). I want to be successful in business management in the future. Being in business requires one to be persistent and make wise decisions. Assertiveness also helps an individual to be a good leader. My personality results also show that while making judgment I would think critically to arrive at the solution rather than consider my emotions and feeling. One should always separate personal feelings from activities of the business. Emotions can cause wrong decisions and choices, thus they should take less consideration. The second test was the motivation one which shows that I am basically motivated by three main attributes: teamwork, autonomy and mastery (Motivational test, n.d.). I like to wor as a team player, and understand that the energy created within a group of people is crucial. In business such quality provides a channel of sharing ideas. The team gives a wide range of alternatives when solving a problem, and thus it helps the leaders in coming up with the most appropriate solution. Team-oriented managers win the loyalty of their employees, and, therefore, they are getting motivated to work harder. Therefore, being a team player will help me in my career as a businessman. I am a person who is motivated by challenging situations. They improve my mastery and help me to be knowledgeable in a certain field. I take advantage of working in a challenging environment thus it help me to enhance my skills and professional competence. I am proud of completing demanding and complicated task. By having such a quality, I can manage a business in a competitive environment. The third test was on communication style. According to its results I am aggressive and assertive in intercourse. I express my needs and ideas directly. This quality shows that I understand myself perfectly, and always know what I want. Being assertive means, I consider others while expressing a point of view by critically analyzing the importance of their opinion. With this type of intercourse any party can win; it is not necessary that people should follow my opinions at all times. Effective communication in business helps to build a strong partnership that is key to success of any company. Timely intercourse helps management to solve issues on time. Wherever there is effective communication there is good flow of information that integrates the organization and enables it to run efficiently (Communication style test, n.d.). The fourth test was a team-player one. It showed that I like working as a team because I understand that this helps in sharing ideas. While working in a team I listen to others but also want the same to be done in response. I always respect oopinions of every individual in a group and take advantage of learning from them. I am patient, kind and very responsible. I always take my time to ensure that everyone is doing well and help those who remain behind. Teamwork increases creativity in the workplace, it improves the quality and establishes a healthy relationship between employees and management. A group works more quickly rather than individuals. In business environment there are activities that require people to work alone, but most of the projects perform better n case of group work. (Are you a team player?, n.d.). The last test was on leadership. The results describe me as an ambassador, creative builder, truth-seeker, people mover and an advocate. As an ambassador, I can handle a lot of situations with patience and grace. As an advocate, I can represent a group of individuals and be their spokesman. As a people mover, I can motivate workers and build a team of hardworking employees. I am a leader who seeks the truth before making judgments. Being fair in judgment will help me while evaluating employees' actions. It is always important to understand individuals background and personality before judging their actions (Galford Maruca, n.d.). Thus, self-assessment portfolio has helped me to understand my position in terms of leadership, communication, teamwork, motivation and personality. My results show that I am on the right track of becoming a successful businessman in the future. With the above mentioned leadership skill, I can manage a corporation that is diverse in terms of production and human resource. I am a self-motivated person who is capable of stimulating others during the business process. I can also work well in a team and help to build good working relationships among individuals. Being an extroverted person helps an individual in socializing and learning from others (Reddy Appannaiah, 2010). Buy custom Self-Assessment Portfolio essay

Celsius to Kelvin Temperature Conversion Example

Celsius to Kelvin Temperature Conversion Example Here is  an example problem  that explains how to convert a temperature from degrees on the Celsius scale to Kelvin. Its a useful conversion to know  because many formulas use Kelvin temperatures, but most thermometers report in Celsius. Celsius to Kelvin Formula To convert between the temperature scales, you need to know the formula. Celsius and Kelvin are based on the same size degree, just with different zero points, so this equation is simple: The formula to convert Celsius to Kelvin is: K  °C 273 or, if you want more significant figures: K  °C 273.15 Celsius to Kelvin Problem #1 Convert 27 ° C to Kelvin. Solution K  °C 273K 27 273K 300300 K Note that the answer is 300 K. Kelvin is not expressed in degrees. Why is this? A scale measured in degrees indicates it references another scale (i.e., Celsius has degrees because its actually based on the Kelvin scale). Kelvin is an absolute scale, with an endpoint that cant move (absolute zero). Degrees dont apply to this type of scale. Celsius to Kelvin Problem #2 Convert 77 ° C to Kelvin. Solution K  °C 273K 77 273K 350350 K More Temperature Conversion Calculators Convert Kelvin to CelsiusConvert Celsius to FahrenheitConvert Kelvin to Fahrenheit

Jesus in the eyes of the American Jewish population in the 21st Essay

Jesus in the eyes of the American Jewish population in the 21st century - Essay Example A discussion of American Jewish attitudes towards Jesus can sensibly start with the small (but growing) sect of Judaism called Messianic Judaism which believes that Jesus was indeed the Messiah. Messianic Jews claim 47,000 followers and 280 congregations worldwide by the turn of the Twenty-First century (Kaplan, 2005). The idea that Jesus was the Messiah is seen as antithetical to the vast majority of American Jews. Kaplan succinctly states the problem that they have with the Messianic adherents: Christianity, which is perceived to be incompatible with any form of Jewishness . . . .Messianic Jewish groups are thus seen as antithetical to Judaism and are completely rejected by the majority of Jews. Thus Messianic "Jews" regard themselves as a culmination of Judaism rather than a branch of Christianity. Even their very claim to being Jewish has been rejected by nearly all Jewish denominations, organizations and the State of Israel itself. This is remarkable as Jews have been consistent throughout their history in being, as a whole, a tolerant religion used to adapting to various kinds of creed within their religion. The line that cannot be crossed, as far as most Jews are concerned, is regarding Jesus as the Messiah. It would thus seem that a majority of American Jews will not regard Jesus as the Messiah in the Twentieth Century, even though their Messianic brethren would claim this as a fact. The Central Conference of American Rabbis puts the situation in context: For us in the Jewish community, anyone who claims that Jesus is their savior is no longer a Jew and is an apostate. Through that belief she has placed herself outside the Jewish community. Whether she cares to define herself as a Christian or as a 'fulfilled Jew,' 'Messianic Jew,' or any other designation is irrelevant; to us, she is clearly a Christian. (Harris-Shapiro, 1999) Some have even related Messianic Judaism with an attempt to convert Jews, which is in reality an attempt to destroy Judaism through being a wolf in sheep's clothing. Or, to mix the metaphor, Messianic Judaism is seen as a Trojan Horse within this argument, designed to topple Judaism from within. Again, it is American Jews who seem to take this argument to its most extreme conclusions: ... Except in relations with Christians, the Christ of Christianity is not a Jewish issue. There simply can be no dialogue worthy of the name unless Christians accept - nay, treasure - the fact that Jews through the two millennia of Christianity have had an agenda of their own. There can be no Jewish-Christian dialogue worthy of the name unless one Christian activity is abandoned, missions to the Jews. It must be abandoned, moreover, not as a temporary strategy but in principle, as a bi-millennial theological mistake. The cost of that mistake in Christian love and Jewish blood one hesitates to contemplate. ... A post-Holocaust Jew can still view Christian attempts to convert Jews as sincere and well intended. But even as such they are no longer acceptable: they have become attempts to do in one way what Hitler did in another. (Fackenheim, 1987) (my emphasis) The idea that Christians trying to convert Jews to their religion, which often seems to

Importance of Theory Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Importance of Theory - Research Paper Example This paper will explore Nightingale’s theory which is based on systems, interactions and development, and to relate it to the nursing practice today. On a given day nurses utilize several nursing theories. Nursing theories are basic concepts that define the nursing practice and attempts to describe and explain what and why nurses do what they do (nursing). Nursing theory is important in differentiating nursing from other disciplines as its main purpose is to describe, explain, predict, and control desired nursing practice outcomes. These theories applied daily by nurses are guidance to how a nurse gives treatment to a patient, how nurses perform their tasks, complete their assessments, and establish interventions. By studying nursing theory, students are able to start thinking critically. For example, nursing theory can be termed as the foundation of good nursing and clinical practice. Even when building a house the foundation is the most important; a strong foundation means a long lasting house. Similarly when the foundation is cracked, the structure (nursing practice) is weakened. Therefore, having a good comprehension of the n ursing theories from the nursing education level topped up with intuition and compassion makes a strong nurse. Nursing theory is the foundation of nursing research which in return develops the nursing practice. It is essential in health care advancement, which allows patients to get the best possible nursing care. As medicine is trying to make a more multidisciplinary approach to health care, nursing has to aim at establishing a exceptional body of knowledge. For example, nurses are gradually increasing their practice scope by performing tasks that were previously carried out by doctors. It is therefore important for theory to define the position of nurses and their roles (Colley, 2003). By giving them this sense of identity,

Economic Theory - Airline Industry Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Economic Theory - Airline Industry - Essay Example This paper examines the economic profile of the airline industry paying attention to issues such as shifts and price elasticity of supply and demand, positive and negative externalities, wage inequalities and monetary and fiscal policies. The first part of the report provides an overview of the airline industry while the second part of the report focuses on the above listed variables. Air transport today is one of the largest industries in the world. For example, the scheduled airline industry generated revenues of nearly $375 billion in 2004 (British Airways Fact book 2006). According to BA Fact Book (2006), over half a billion passengers were carried on international scheduled services with this figure having grown at an annual average rate of more than 6% since 1970, when the then corresponding number of passengers was 75 million (British Airways Fact book 2006). Many commentators for example have long argued that, aviation has an overall economic impact far in excess of its turnover (Riggas 2001). Here, Boyd (2000) argues that the network of air transport services facilitates growth in output and employment, and at the same time international trade and investment, tourism, and living standards (Boyd 2000). BA Fact Book (2006) refers to Air travel as â€Å"a vital artery that reinforces the process of globalisation, allowing it to transform the way in which many other industries carry out their business† (BA Fact Book 2006:5). In response to the rapid growth in business travels in recent years, the airline industry has witnessed rapid growth in the last four decades. Rigaes (2002) postulates that, one argument in favour of the present state of the airline industry is positive externality. Thus such a higher growth in the sector is due to global mobility that outweighs the microeconomic losses and justifies continuing government intervention. The industry is also

The Pros and Cons of the No Child Left Behind Act Essay

The Pros and Cons of the No Child Left Behind Act - Essay Example Yet, along with the greater emphasis put on student performance has come nationwide accountability and the unethical measures that school districts have implemented to meet the new federal guidelines. The NCLB Act was designed primarily to aid poor, minority, and immigrant students by implementing testing standards and assuring no child was falling through the cracks and being left behind. To support this effort, the bill appropriated $650 million to be used by the states to instruct English language learners. This was a 50% increase in funding for these efforts over previous years (Crawford). In an era when education funding has suffered from so many cutbacks, the additional funding was a decided benefit for schools, especially with high immigrant populations. However, the new formula used to distribute the money resulted in the least populated states, such as North Dakota and Alaska, receiving a reduction in funding. This has resulted in fewer English Learner programs for Native Americans that are enrolled in public schools in these states (Crawford). The NCLB Act requires that all students be tested at regular intervals to measure their progress in Math and English. School district funding and administrative control are dependent on acceptable results of this testing. This approach is well intentioned and can benefit the student by holding the schools accountable to their purpose, teaching the students. While the results of this testing have been unimpressive for the general student population, it has benefited students in the lower grades that are enrolled in an English Language Learner program (National Center for Educational Statistics). While forcing the schools to produce results, especially among the most challenged students, the Act has also had unintended consequences in this area. Because school funding is based on these results, districts have been anxious to exploit loopholes that may exempt many students from the testing requirements. During the most recent reporting period it was reported that the scores of two mill ion students were omitted due to technicalities. These were the poorest performing students and it can be inferred that they were minority and immigrant students, the ones that NCLB was written to protect. (Bass, Dixon, and Feller). The NCLB has given the education system uniform guidelines and standards that can be used to compare our past performance and gauge the success of our schools. It helps to identify which programs work and which ones fail. The goal of testing all students fairly is a great advantage if implemented correctly. However, when school funding, bonuses, and school control depend on the results of these tests, it becomes known as High Stakes Testing. Teachers are put in a position to "teach the test" at the expense of other equally important material. Measuring student progress may become meaningless under the current guidelines as Armein and Berliner report, "... the harder teachers work to directly prepare students for a high-stakes test, the less likely the test will be valid for the purposes it was intended". It has also been reported that Latino students have been encouraged to drop out of school to avoid taking the test in a school's effort to raise overall test

The Clash of Civilizations Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

The Clash of Civilizations - Term Paper Example Huntington (1998, pp.19) has called this a rediscovery of â€Å"new but often old identities.† Huntington (1998, pp.21) has argued that world has become â€Å"multi-polar and multi-civilizational† which character has been replacing the bipolar world of the cold war period. He (Huntington, 1998, pp.21) has further stated that a new grouping of states has been emerging based on world’s major â€Å"seven or eight civilizations. These civilizations have been listed as the Western civilization, Latin America, former Soviet Union, Eastern world, Muslim countries, Sub-Saharan African nations, and also the lone countries (Huntington, 1998). It is also observed that â€Å"the balance of power among civilizations are shifting†, in favor of Non-Western countries as they are amassing more wealth, political strength and military base (Huntington, 1998, pp.21-23). Drawing attention to the â€Å"gap between Western principles and Western action,† Huntington (1998, pp.184, 21), opined that â€Å"west’s universalist pretentions† has escalated this conflict. He (Huntington, 1998, pp.103) has further suggested that in order to survive the conflicts, West should accept its identity as unique rather than universal and integrate what is called a western identity. Another assumption of this book is that the world is being split into two distinct and separate cultural entities, namely, â€Å"the peoples of Western Christianity, on the one hand, †¦(and)†¦ Muslim and Orthodox people, on the other†(Huntington, 1998, pp.28). Huntington (1998, pp.102) had believed that Aisan civilization and Isl amic civilization would be the two major forces that would put great challenges before the west against its present domination of the world. This analysis of world politics has also concluded that â€Å"Muslims have traditionally divided the world into Dar al-Islam and Dar al-Harb, the

Case#6 Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

#6 - Case Study Example With regard to its definition, a visionary leader is a leader who is able to articulate their dream for an organization and inspire followers, allowing them to move together towards a shared dream of the future. The basis of my definition is that the ultimate role of visionary leadership is facilitative and an ideal principal is often to merely facilitate the vision rather than single handedly transforming an organization (school) within a given period of time (Mendels, 2012, P.55, Column 2, L. 2). As seen in the case study, Susan is seen alluding to a community culture means she is indirectly calling to attention the important of the beliefs, values as well as the collective thoughts of those who belonged to the broader community of the school. This is likely to be based on her strong personal belief that developing a school vision is a collective responsibility that should be carried out by all members and stakeholders of the broader school community. Generally, the potential conflict between professionalism and democracy often take a number of forms. Democracies often require taking into account the opinions of other members of an organization before making decisions. However, this may result in a time consuming bureaucratic process that may negatively affect efficiency and professionalism in the school or organization as more time may be required and compromise may have to be reached. For Example, during administrative decision making, responsiveness may require adherence to professionalism while the principle of democratic accountability demands adherence to the popular will or democracy (West-Burnham, 2003, P. 10, L.7). Based on my knowledge of school administration, the role that the principal plays in the building of the school vision is simply be participate and facilitate reaching a consensus on a vision that reflect the collective thoughts of the broader school community as opposed to single handedly

The Clash of Civilizations Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

The Clash of Civilizations - Term Paper Example Huntington (1998, pp.19) has called this a rediscovery of â€Å"new but often old identities.† Huntington (1998, pp.21) has argued that world has become â€Å"multi-polar and multi-civilizational† which character has been replacing the bipolar world of the cold war period. He (Huntington, 1998, pp.21) has further stated that a new grouping of states has been emerging based on world’s major â€Å"seven or eight civilizations. These civilizations have been listed as the Western civilization, Latin America, former Soviet Union, Eastern world, Muslim countries, Sub-Saharan African nations, and also the lone countries (Huntington, 1998). It is also observed that â€Å"the balance of power among civilizations are shifting†, in favor of Non-Western countries as they are amassing more wealth, political strength and military base (Huntington, 1998, pp.21-23). Drawing attention to the â€Å"gap between Western principles and Western action,† Huntington (1998, pp.184, 21), opined that â€Å"west’s universalist pretentions† has escalated this conflict. He (Huntington, 1998, pp.103) has further suggested that in order to survive the conflicts, West should accept its identity as unique rather than universal and integrate what is called a western identity. Another assumption of this book is that the world is being split into two distinct and separate cultural entities, namely, â€Å"the peoples of Western Christianity, on the one hand, †¦(and)†¦ Muslim and Orthodox people, on the other†(Huntington, 1998, pp.28). Huntington (1998, pp.102) had believed that Aisan civilization and Isl amic civilization would be the two major forces that would put great challenges before the west against its present domination of the world. This analysis of world politics has also concluded that â€Å"Muslims have traditionally divided the world into Dar al-Islam and Dar al-Harb, the

Rosalind Franklin Essay Example for Free

Rosalind Franklin Essay When Watson came calling in January 1953, Wilkins revealed he had been quietly coping Franklins data. When Watson saw one of the photos, his mouth fell open. Ultimately, trial and error produced a working model of DNA, but the information they used was based on Franklins data. It was March 7, 1953 that Cricke announced to the patrons of a local pub, that he and his confrere had found the secret of life. (Parshall, 173) Soon after, the results were published into an article in Nature, along with a supporting article from Franklin. (Maisel, 1) Rosalind Franklin continued her previous work. She collaborated on studies of the structure of the tobacco Mosaic Virus and also helped determine that RNA is a single-stranded helical molecule. (Sayre, 1) While on a visit to the United States later in life, she experienced episodes of pain in her abdomen. In the autumn of 1956, she learned she had ovarian cancer. Franklin continued her research up until only a few weeks before her death on April 16, 1958 at the age of 37. (Sayre, 1) The Nobel Prize was awarded to Watson and Cricke, in 1962. Rosalind Franklin never received credit for the work she had accomplished with the structure of DNA. This prestigious award it cannot be given to the dead. Ironically Wilkins was also awarded for his collaboration with Watson and Cricke. The Nobel Committee credited him with Franklins stellar work as well as his own. (Parshell, 74) In Cricks view, If Franklin had lived, it would have been impossible to give the prize to Maurice and not to her, because she did the key experimental work. (Write, 172) Even though Rosalind Franklin is no longer alive, research continues due to her previous work. If the structure of DNA had not been discovered, biotechnology would not be where it is today. By 1952 it was known the DNA had an exclusive role, as the substance capable of storing all the information needed to create a living being. It is considered to be the fine line between the living and the nonliving. Watson went on to teach at Harvard and eventually headed the National Institutes of Healths Human Genome project. This Project was begun with the intention of mapping out every gene in a human, and eventually learn their functions. This is where the field of bioethics is introduced. Many beneficial things may result from this knowledge. For example, with this information we may be able to cure many diseases and birth defects. Studying how the DNA is altered to cause these conditions will help scientist develop what is necessary to prevent these things. This project was recently completed which caused the public to question where the line must be drawn. With this new information, a couple may be able to pre-select the gender of their baby or maybe even certain traits. The new question is, When has science gone too far? Even though the mapping of the human genome may bring enormous benefits, it can be assumed that someone will want to abuse this new knowledge. As always we must accept the good with the bad. Discovering the structure of DNA and thus how it is able to replicate has also made cloning possible. This was demonstrated with the sheep named Dolly. It was cloned using DNA extracted from an adult sheep and inserted into an unfertilized egg. This process could be very beneficial in the future. We may be able to keep certain species from becoming extinct. As with any other situation, there is also a negative side. What if people want to clone themselves? (As pictured in the movie Multiplicity) There is a fine line between what is ethical and can be allowed and what cannot. For example, it would be unethical for people to continue to clone themselves in an effort to elude death. (Assuming this would be possible. ) Would it be unethical the clone in order to produce needed tissues or a certain blood type? Without Rosalind Franklins work, this information would not have been discovered for at least several years until the technology caught up with the project. It is because of her work that we may one day be able to cure birth defects, cancer, or other genetically related diseases. Unfortunately she has not received the recognition she deserves for her contributions to the scientific field. She spent most of her short-lived life working in the laboratory and most biology classes do not attribute any of her hard work to her. She has greatly impacted the world and everyones future. Stephanie Luchenfield 1. Were there any parts of the Paper that need to be more clearly explained? (ie scientific terms)? I am familiar with scientific terms so I understood what you were talking about. 2. Did it adequately explain why she was such an important person in history? Yes 3. Was it easy to follow? I found a lot of it hard to follow mainly because there were some parts that felt like I was reading a textbook. 4. What was your favorite part of the paper? I liked the part when you really explain the cloning process on regular terms by related what you were talking about with the sheep and the movie. . It was also where she crossed paths with Maurice Wilkins. (maire, 1).

Promotion And Development Of Rail Tourism India Tourism Essay

Promotion And Development Of Rail Tourism India Tourism Essay In India, Railways play a vital role in the socio-economic life of the country. Today, the number of domestic as well as international travelers is increasing with an increase in the disposable income of Indians. To support the increasing traffic of travelers even Indian Railways have come out with few plans over last 10-15 years. They are trying to build their tourism wing as well but still travelers are not aware of the various initiatives taken by Indian Railways. Indian Railways have a totally new wing to handle this i.e. Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC). The first objective of the project is to bring awareness by designing the marketing plan for them. This will be used all over the country to promote rail tourism. The other objective of the project is to find the feasibility of new route which they can venture into. This would require both financial and operational strategy. The final deliverable for the MRR would be a combination of both the strategies mentioned above for Indian Railways to showcase the marketing plan and advantages and risk for investing in the new routes. Objectives of the study The objective of this study is as follows: To study Indian Railways especially tourism hand of it. To study changing tourism pattern in India. To study current IRCTC tourism plan. To understand the demographics of tourist To recommend a marketing strategy for already present plans Finding new route which IRCTC could venture. To develop financial and operational plan for this new route. To recommend a plan for the implementation of above strategy. Hypothesis of the MRR In India, numbers of tourist are increasing every year due to increase in the disposable income. Railway has a tourism wing which tries to satisfy the need of these tourist but still general public is not much aware various initiatives taken. Tourist are still competing with the general traveler to get a seat in rail instead of opting for various other special offers provided by rail tourism. We have an opportunity to start new route and promote both old as well as new routes by formulating a marketing plan for this. Scope and Limitation Scope: This study would help in promoting rail tourism in India. Also this would help them to generate extra revenue by venturing into new routes. It would help to satisfy the current increasing demand for transportation by tourist. Limitation: MRR would choose certain region based on selected parameters to search for new routes and to start with the marketing plan for the same. This selection does not mean that IRCTC would be willing to share all the data for the project. MRR would only deal in highlighting and describing important benefits associated with start of new routes. It would not cover financial and operational details of it. The financial plan would require valuations of new strategy. Limitations in data might lead to valuations based on assumptions and model. However both time and resource did not permit venturing into a study of other Railway systems in detail except through what was available on Internet and locally available article on the subject. Chapter 2: Brief overview of global Tourism Industry Introduction Tourism is travel for various purposes like recreational, business, leisure or pleasure. World Tourism Organization headquartered at Madrid defines tourists as people traveling to and staying in places outside their usual environment for not more than one consecutive year for leisure, business and other purposes. In recent times tourism has been recognized as an important social and economic phenomenon. At the World Conference on Tourism held in Manila in 1980, the importance of tourism and its widespread effects were recognized in the Manila Declaration on World Tourism, which stated, Tourism is considered an activity essential to the life of nations because of its direct effects on the social, cultural, educational and economic sectors of national societies and on their international relations. There are three forms of Tourism as per United Nations as follows: Domestic Tourism When a resident is travelling in its own country. Inbound Tourism When Non-residents are travelling in the given country. Outbound Tourism When residents travels to another country. History In earlier times, rich uses to travel to distant parts of the world, to see great buildings, works of art,  learn new languages, and experience new cultures and to taste different  cuisines. The word  tourist  was used by 1772  and  tourism  by 1811.  In 1936, the  League of Nations defined  foreign tourist  as someone traveling abroad for at least twenty-four hours. United Nations in 1945 have amended this definition by including a maximum stay of six months. United Kingdom was the first country to promote leisure travel which was associated with Industrial Revolution due to increase in Industrial population. This comprise of new middle class at that time. This model was then replicated in France, Continental Europe, and south pacific Asia and slowly in other parts of world. Mass tourism was developed with the development of technology and infrastructure, allowing tourist to move around in the world with ease. It was developed only due to new development in transport system around the world. Tourist Destination statistics The global tourism market is very concentrated at the top end; 45% of the world`s international arrivals in 2010 are accounted for by the top ten countries. However the future trends show a major shift in the share of tourist arrivals from developed European economies to emerging Asian markets. Following is the ranking of top destinations as per United Nations World Tourism Organization as per different categories: International Tourist arrivals by country of destination as of 2011 France 80 Million United States 62 Million China 58 Million International Tourism receipts as of 2011 United States $116 Billion Spain $60 Billion France $54 Billion Most visited cities by international tourist arrival Paris (France) 15.6 Million London (UK) 15.2 Million Antalya (Turkey) 10.5 Million Goldrush_big.jpg Source: Amadeus The above diagram shows a research conducted by Amadeus which shows that there will be a dramatic change of travel spend with Asia-Pacific visitor arrivals accounting for 22% of global traffic and Asia-Pacific residents representing 32% of global travel spend in 2020. Although Europe will dominate the tourism market overall but Asia-Pacific have shown a great improvement and is growing faster than other regions. Economic Factors Travel Tourism is one of the worlds largest industries. In 2011 Travel Tourism contributed 9% to the global GDP which values to more than US$6 trillion, and accounted for more than 255 million jobs. Travel Tourism industry is expected to grow by an average of 4% annually over the next 10 years, taking it to 10% of global GDP, or some US$10 trillion. It is expected that by 2022 Travel Tourism industry will account for 328 million jobs or 1 in every 10 jobs on the planet. As per a survey Travel Tourism is a key generator of employment across the European Union directly generating 10 million jobs across Europe, substantially more than the automotive manufacturing (3.2 million), mining (3.6 million) and financial services sectors (8.5 million). Employment is created in the sectors like transportation services like airlines, cruise, taxi, etc; hospitality services such as hotels, resorts, etc; and entertainment industry like amusement parks, casinos, shopping malls, theatres, etc. Ev en Asia Pacific region is now investing money in Travel Tourism to depict same figures in their economies as well. Below is the diagram showing how the contribution is made towards economy and employment through Travel and Tourism (TT). It is divided into three parts i.e. Direct, Indirect and Induced. Source: World Trade and Tourism Council research report The direct contribution of TT to GDP in 2011 was USD 1,972.8bn (2.8% of GDP). The direct contribution of Travel and Tourism to GDP is expected to grow by 4.2% pa by 2022. Total contribution of TT to GDP was USD 6,346.1bn in 2011 i.e. 9.1% of GDP and is expected to grow by 2.8% to USD 6,526.9bn i.e. 9.8% of GDP by 2022. Source: WTTC Negative factors affecting tourism Below are the factors which are affecting tourism in most part of the world: Terrorist threat is one of the biggest negative factors affecting tourism. Terrorist attack in London, US, etc has reduced the number of tourist going to these countries. Also there is  terrorist threat  to  tourist destinations, such as in  Bali  and several European cities. Tsunami in Asia had affected tourism in most of the Asian countries at that time. Thousands of lives were lost including many tourists. Tsunami, Katrina and other cyclones in other regions have slowed down the tourism industry in their respective countries. Virus attacks like H1N1 influenza virus have affected the tourism in several countries. Other factors like economic unrest and recession have affected the number of tourist going for vacation. Future Developments Tourism is expected to grow at a rate of 4% annually and all this requires constant development in the technology and infrastructure. Tourists can be divided generally as per their budgets and taste thus new different ideas are required to pull tourist towards a country or city. For example some people like to go on a hill while some people like to go out for a theme park. Thus various developments were done to cater all the segments as per their needs. Developments like airlines have made it very accessible to travel round the world. International organization WHO estimates that up to 500,000 people is on planes at any time. Internet development has brought a new revolution in tourism industry. One can book tickets (Rail, ship, airlines, etc), plans, packages, etc through internet. One can easily get a customized package as per their needs on a click of button. Due to competition these website gives competitive prices which is always beneficial for the end customer. Sustainable Tourism As the environmental condition of the world deteriorating every year this is an attempt by tourism industry to make as low impact on the  environment  and local  culture  as possible, while helping to generate future employment for local people. The aim of sustainable tourism is to ensure that development brings a positive experience for local people, tourism companies and the tourists themselves. There is a difference between Sustainable tourism and  ecotourism. Ecotourism  is a form of  tourism  involving visiting fragile, pristine, and relatively undisturbed natural areas, intended as a low-impact and often small scale alternative to standard commercial (mass) tourism. Purpose of Ecotourism is to educate the traveler, to provide funds for  ecological conservation, to directly benefit the  economic development  and political empowerment of local communities, or to foster respect for different cultures and for  human rights. A number of countries around the world are dependent on Tourism and consider Sustainable tourism as the important vehicle for economic and social development. Sustainable tourism is visualized as leading to management of all resources in such a way that social, economic and aesthetic needs can be fulfilled while maintaining biodiversity, cultural integrity, life support system and essential ecological processes. It  implies meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It is not just the responsibility of government but it is the responsibility of all the stakeholders in tourism sector as well as the tourists to ensure that what they are getting today is preserve for future generations to enjoy. All stakeholders are responsible to give a good quality of life to future generations and they shouldnt do anything which would affect the lives of future generation. For Sustainable tourism each country has to address various issues of policy-making, planning, management and the participation of the private sector and other stakeholders must be addressed in terms of opportunities for action and possible constraints that need to be overcome by concerted efforts. Sustainable-Development.png Sustainable tourism aims to reach a balance between the three factors mentioned above i.e. Social, Environmental and Economic factors without affecting the tourists expectations from their travel. Sustainable tourism integrates tourism with other factors like economic and growth policies so as to reduce the negative impact mass tourism. Sustainable tourism requires involving local community as well while developing any tourism plan as they are the people who will get affected by any kind of development in their area. Murphy promoted the use of an ecological approach while implementing the sustainable tourism development process. He considered both plants and people during the process. This is in contrast to the boosterism and economic approaches to tourism planning, neither of which considers the detrimental ecological or sociological impacts of tourism development to a destination. Chapter 3: Overview of Indian Tourism Industry Introduction India is a huge land with a variety of different flora and fauna. Each place has something new to offer. It has covered by Himalayas hilly region on one side and sea on the other sides. Tourism in India is one of the largest service industries. As India is a vast country so there are thousands of destinations and each destination is a tourist spot in itself. Whether you visit the metros, big cities or remote areas of India, you will experience something different and interesting alike. Besides, India is also dotted with a number of picturesque hills which draw tourists from world over and provide a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of cities. For those who are interested in history and architecture, India has a number of sites which have been designated as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. You can get a fine glimpse of the bygone era at these Heritage Sites.  UK and US tourists are among major tourist population that visit India. Most popular tourist destinations, in India, among Foreigners are Kerala,  Tamil Nadu,  Delhi,  Uttar Pradesh  and  Rajasthan. Most popular destination among Domestic tourist is Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Being oldest states of India, heritage Sites and most importantly Pilgrimage Sites, attracts Domestic tourist. According to  World Travel and Tourism Council, from 2009 to 2018, India will among top tourism destination,  having the highest 10-year growth potential.  The  Travel Tourism Competitiveness Report 2007  ranked tourism in India sixth in terms of price competitiveness and 39th in terms of safety and security. A 5000 year history, culture, religion and alternative medicine fascinates all segments of tourist. The focus of the industry is on Atithi Devo Bhavah campaign, targeted at the inbound foreign tourist. Translated literally it means Guest is God. Main attraction to India is its cultural and geographical diversity. It also had a rich history and each region has its own uniqueness which appeals to large and diverse tourist base. There are many tourist spots which come under UNESCO heritage. India provides heritage, sports, medical and business. India has one of the largest and fastest growing  medical tourism sectors. According to global hotel and hospitality consulting firm, HVS International, the strong performance in tourist arrivals in 2005 can be attributed to a strong sense of business and investment confidence in India inspired by: Indias strong GDP performance Strengthening of ties with developed world Reforms in aviation sector which led to better connectivity with many countries, and Opening of sectors of the economy to private sector/foreign investment. Other factors are: Development of infrastructure by government Indias emergence as an outsourcing hub Success of Incredible India campaign and other tourism promotion measures Indias growing recognition as an exciting place to visit. Ministry of Tourism National policies are planned by the Ministry of Tourism. They are responsible for the development and promotion of tourism in India. They are also responsible for the regulation of tourism industry as well as promotion of India as tourist destination to the world. They have to take consideration from all the stakeholders in the sector to execute any plan or development in any of the regions. All the stakeholders involved in this process needs to work collaboratively to function smoothly. Ministry is putting considerable effort to promote new forms of tourism like eco-tourism, medical, sports, water, etc.  The Ministry of Tourism also maintains the  Incredible India  campaign. As of January 2011, head of the ministry is the  Cabinet Minister Subodh Kant Sahay.  India  stole the limelight at the World Tourism Mart 2011 in  London  by winning two global awards Worlds Leading Destination and Worlds Leading Tourist Board,  Incredible India. Economic Factors Tourism contributes 6.4% to the national GDP and 8.8% to the employment in India. It is the 3rd largest foreign exchange earner in India. Travel Tourism (TT) directs contribution to GDP in 2011 was INR1,689.8bn (1.9% of GDP). By 2012, it is forecasted that it will grow by 7.6% to INR1,818.5bn. This shows how much economy can grow just with the help of hotels, rails and other form of transportation services (excluding commuter services). Not only this but it also includes the other industries which are dependent on the tourist such as restaurants and leisure industry. It is expected that by 2022 direct contribution of TT to GDP is expected to grow by 7.7% pa to INR3,805.2bn (1.9% of GDP). The Total contribution of TT to GDP was INR5,651.0bn in 2011 (6.4% of GDP) and by 2012 it is expected to grow by 7.3% to INR6,062.3bn (6.5% of GDP). Total contribution is further forecast to rise by 7.8% pa to INR12,891.2bn by 2022 (6.5% of GDP). % of whole economy GDP Source: WTTC Travel Tourism Economic Impact 2012 Direct TT generated by leisure travel spending (inbound and domestic) is 73.8% of direct TT GDP in 2011 (INR3,335.4bn) compared with 26.2% for business travel spending (INR1,181.3bn). Business travel spending is expected to grow by 4.1% in 2012 to INR1,229.6bn, and rise by 7.6% pa to INR2,562.2bn in 2022. Leisure travel spending is expected to grow by 8.6% in 2012 to INR3,622.3bn, and rise by 7.6% pa to INR7,554.3bn in 2022. Source: WTTC Travel Tourism Economic Impact 2012 Domestic travel spending generated 82.2% of direct Travel Tourism GDP in 2011 compared with 17.8% for visitor exports (ie foreign visitor spending or international tourism receipts). Domestic travel spending is expected to grow by 8.3% in 2012 to INR4,009.9bn, and rise by 8.1% pa to INR8,710.3bn in 2022. Visitor exports are expected to grow by 3.5% in 2012 to INR829.2bn, and rise by 5.2% pa to INR1,382.6bn in 2022. Source: WTTC Travel Tourism Economic Impact 2012 Below are the country rankings of absolute contribution for year 2011. We can see that under direct and total contribution to GDP India is ranked 11th and 12th respectively which is a good ranking. Compared to other Asian economies China is the only country ahead of India in ranking. If we consider employment parameter then India is ranked as 1st for direct contribution to employment while 2nd for total contribution to employment after China. If we see capital investment done with respect to other countries then India is ranked at 4th position. These rankings are in absolute term but if we consider relative value then India is way behind its neighbors. It is ranked as 126th as total contribution to the GDP. While contribution of tourism to employment is ranked at 102nd and capital investment at 97th. Compared to its competitive neighboring nation it is a poor ranking. C:UsersDellDocumentsAIMMRRDocsContribution.jpg Source: WTTC The tables provide brief extracts from the full WTTC Country League Table Rankings, highlighting comparisons with competing destinations as well as with the world average. The competing destinations selected are those that offer a similar tourism product and compete for tourists from the same set of origin markets. These tend to be, but are not exclusively, geographical neighbors. Below is the long term ranking on the same parameters as above. If we analyze the rankings then we can see that it is improving from the current relative rankings. C:UsersDellDocumentsAIMMRRDocsLong term.jpg Source: WTTC The above table highlights comparison with competing destination as well as with world average. It is a snapshot from WTTC country league table ranking. The competing destinations offer a similar tourism product and compete for tourists from the same set of origin markets i.e. geographic location. Statistics of Indian Tourism In 2010, numbers of foreign tourist arrival were 5.78 Million which shows the annual growth rate of 11.8%. This double digit shows that the number of tourist coming to India is increasing at a good rate because the global annual growth is just 6.6% while annual growth of entire Asia Pacific Region is 12.7%. Although this annual growth rate is comparatively high but the share of India in International tourist arrival is just 0.61% and India is ranked at 40th position. We can also see in the below chart provided by UNWTO that the inbound tourism in Asia and pacific region is going to grow faster than any other region of the world. So this gives a lot of potential for Asian countries to grow and develop their economy via medium of tourism. C:UsersDellDocumentsAIMMRRDocsunwto_general_assembly_10oct2011_slide8.jpg Source: UNWTO Maximum tourist comes from USA (16%) followed by UK (13%) and then Bangladesh (7.5%). Delhi (34.5%) and Mumbai airport (20.5%) is the main entry point for tourists coming to India. Below table shows the purpose of FTAs visit to India. C:UsersDellDocumentsAIMMRRDocs77.jpg Source: India Tourism Statistic 2010 In 2010, peak tourist month was December while on the lower side was May. In December there were around 11.8% tourist and in May there were 5.7% tourist only. The below graph shows that peak season were in Jan March Oct Dec in 2010. This is generally consistent with the pattern in 2008 and 2009 also. C:UsersDellDocumentsAIMMRRDocsMonth.jpg Source: India Tourism Statistic 2010 Peak months differ for countries to countries like for USA, Canada, Malaysia, Australia and Singapore, December was the peak month. For countries like UK, Germany and Korea January was the peak month. For few countries it is even August or July. But overall it is the winter season (October-December) where we see maximum FTAs in India i.e. 31.1% and minimum in summer season (April-June) i.e. 18.8%. Of all the FTAs in 2010, Male FTAs accounted for 59.3% while Female as 40.7%. Over the last 15 years the percentage of female visitors has increased in India. The trend among the age group which we have seen in the inbound tourist was that maximum comes from the age group of 35-44, followed by the age groups of 45-54 years and 25-34 years. Minimum were in the age group of 15-24 years. Domestic Tourism: Along with International tourism even Domestic tourism is increasing at a good pace. The compound annual growth rate of domestic tourist visits to all states/UTs from 1991 to 2010 is 13.5%. Below is the diagram showing year-wise domestic/foreign tourists visits to States/ UTs during 2000 and 2010 C:UsersDellDocumentsAIMMRRDocsDomestic.jpg Source: India Tourism Statistic 2010 Below is the figure showing the percentage share of Top 10 States/UTs in Domestic tourist visits in 2010. We can see that Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Tamilnadu itself comprise of roughly 55% of the total domestic tourist visit. In terms of foreign tourist Maharashtra is the state which is most visited i.e. 28.5%. C:UsersDellDocumentsAIMMRRDocsshare.jpg Source: India Tourism Statistic 2010 Chapter 4: Transport Industry in India Introduction Transport in the Republic of India is an important part of the nations economy. Since the economic liberalization of the 1990s, development of infrastructure within the country has progressed at a rapid pace, and today there is a wide variety of modes of transport by land, water and air. Indias transport sector is large and diverse; it caters to the needs of 1.1 billion people. In 2007, the sector contributed about 5.5 percent to the nations GDP. Public transport still remains the primary mode of transport for most of the population, and Indias public transport systems are among the most heavily used in the world. Indias rail network is the 4th longest and the most heavily used system in the world, transporting over 6  billion passengers and over 350 million  tons of freight annually. Good physical connectivity in the urban and rural areas is essential for economic growth. Since the early 1990s, Indias growing economy has witnessed a rise in demand for transport infrastructure and services. However, the sector has not been able to keep pace with rising demand and is proving to be a drag on the economy. Major improvements in the sector are required to support the countrys continued economic growth and to reduce poverty. Primary Mode of Transportation Railways.  Indian Railways (reporting mark IR) is an Indian state-owned railway enterprise, owned and operated by the Government of India through the Ministry of Railways. It is one of the worlds largest railway networks comprising a total of 114,500 kilometres (71,147 mi) of track over a route of 65,000 kilometres (40,389 mi) and 7,500 stations. IR carries over 30 million passengers and 2.8 million tons of freight daily. In 2011-2012 Railway earned INR104,278.79 crore (US$18.87 billion) which consists of INR69,675.97 crore (US$12.61 billion) from freight and INR28,645.52 crore (US$5.18 billion) from passengers tickets. It is one of the worlds largest employers.  The railways play a leading role in carrying passengers and cargo across Indias vast territory. However, most of its major corridors have capacity constraint requiring capacity enhancement plans. To reduce congestion on rail corridors along the highly trafficked Golden Quadrilateral and improving port connectivity govern ment is launching the National Rail Vikas Yojana (National Railway Development Program). The development of two Dedicated Freight Corridors from Mumbai to Delhi and Ludhiana to Dankuni is also in governments plan. Roads.  Roads are the dominant mode of transportation in India today. They carry almost 90 percent of the countrys passenger traffic and 65 percent of its freight. The density of Indias highway network at 0.66 km of highway per square kilometer of land is similar to that of the United States (0.65) and much greater than Chinas (0.16) or Brazils (0.20). However, most highways in India are narrow and congested with poor surface quality, and 40 percent of Indias villages do not have access to all-weather roads. Ports. India has a long coastline, spanning 7516.6 kilometres, forming one of the biggest peninsulas in the world. It is serviced by 13 major ports (12 government and 1 corporate) and 187 notified minor and intermediate ports. The latest addition to major ports is Port Blair on June 2010, the 13th port in the country. These ports serve the countrys growing foreign trade in petroleum products, iron ore, and coal, as well as the increasing movement of containers. Inland water transportation remains largely undeveloped despite Indias 14,000 kilometers of navigable rivers and canals. Aviation. India has  125 airports, including 11 international airports. Indian airports handled 96 million passengers and 1.5 million tons of cargo in year 2006-2007, an increase of 31.4% for passenger and 10.6% for cargo traffic over previous year. The dramatic increase in air traffic for both passengers and cargo in recent years has placed a heavy strain on the countrys major airports. Passenger traffic is projected to cross 100 million and cargo to cross 3.3 million tons by year 2010. Privatization and expansion of the Mumbai and New Delhi Airports and development of new international airports at Hyderabad and Bangalore. Transport infrastructure in India is better developed in the southern and southwestern parts of the country. PESTLE Analysis Political Context Many limitations were imposed by public transport sector. Also government has imposed many taxes which will further increase the prices of automobiles. Government has asked public transport vehicles in many cities to move to CNG instead of petrol which has affected many individuals. Launching the ambitious National Highway Development Program which has seven phases and is expected to be completed by 2012. It includes improved connectivity between Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata, popularly called the Golden Quadrilateral, in the first phase, North- South and East- West corridors in phase two, four laning of more than 12,000 km in phase three, two laning of 20,000km and six laning of 6,500 km respectively in phase four and five, development of 1,000km of expressway in phase six and other important highway projects in phase seven. Total expected investment is INR 2.2 trillion. Accelerated Road Development Program for the North East Region to provide road connectivi ty to all State capitals and district headquarters in the region. Economic Context Petrol prices are increasing every year at a sky rocket speed and this will surely hamper the transport industry as it will lead to increase in the travelling fare. Consumer confidence has decreased as a result of the economic downturn and people are seeking savings in their everyday life. Increase in the average disposable income of both families and individuals indicates that more people can afford to buy and use a private car. Tourism bring foreign exchange earnings of USD 14.19 Billion. The top-income households, the real consuming class with high disposable income, have been getting richer faster. It is for this reason that the boom in sales of virtually every consumer product from cars to bikes to TV sets is visible all over. Societies Context Growing population and numbers of visitors/tourists/immigrants imply increasing demand for transport Services. People are more time-poor and seek efficient ways of transport in the city, where public transport possesses advantages such as rail and bus lanes that avoid traffic jams. People seek the convenience, personal comfort and social status that mainly private cars or, to a certain degree, taxis can offer Technology Context Rapid development in communication and computer technologies, e.g. increasing use of videoconferencing, tele-working and the Internet