Author: chris

UNIX Shells

UNIX is an operating system of a computer that allows multi-user and multitasking functions in diverse variants. UNIX has evolved with time, a function known by the UNIX philosophy. A shell refers to programs that allow users to engage commands that are typed. A shell in most cases hides the background computer operations, only showing the kernel interface. Linux and OS X used in Apple are the common forms of UNIX in the market (Nemeth et al, 2010).

Users of the Unix-like operating systems are exposed to diverse choices of interactive sessions through command-line interpreters. A shell program is executed in the computer once a user logs into the system, some of the login shells are customized depending on the needs and wants of the users, mainly in the form of chsh program or on passwd file and customized through passwd-e (Nemeth et al, 2010). Different shell programs can be executed interactively depending on context. UNIX shell is used as a scripting programming language, interactive command language and also in controlling shell script. UNIX systems use shell for system startup script implementation language, controlling system that works on the windowing system and facilitating internet by regulating the relevant program among other functions (Robbins, 2005).

C shell and Bourne shell are the common forms of UNIX shells. Surveys have shown that Bourne shell, sh , was developed at AT&T by Stephen Bourne. C shell was derived from Thompson shell that is the 6^th edition of UNIX shell. Bourne shell , sh, is the original command line interpreter at Unix, hence considered as the de facto standard and part of the Version 7 Unix located at /bin/sh. Bourne shell, sh, is considered the initiator of the common features found in Unix shells which includes command substitution, control structures, here documents, piping and variables engaged in looping, condition testing and filename wildcarding (Nemeth et al, 2010). ALGOL 68 facilitates reversed keyword language marking the end of a block. The C shell is commonly used for control of the operating system and for scripting the systems control basing on the diverse interactive commands (Sarwar & Al-Saqabi, 2002).

C shell, csh, was developed by Bill Joy. Surveys indicated that control structures, language and expression of grammar use C to model it. C shell facilitated diverse features that encouraged editing mechanisms, interactive work, aliases, history, tide notation, directory stacks, cdpath, path hashing and job control among other functions (Robbins, 2005). A terminal emulator is applied in interacting modern UNIX shell with the older versions of the UNIX shell (Peek et al, 2001). GNOME Terminal and xterm are the common terminals. C shell and Bourne shell for years have been applied as a model for work-alike shells with diversity of feature sets and also as a coding base for modern technology in UNIX (Powers et al, 2002).

Graphical cells or visual cells are the graphical user interface designed for UNIX; examples are KDE, GNOME and Xface. The Bourne shell is compatible with Busybox, Z shell (zsh), Korn shell (ksh), Bourne shell (sh), Almquist shell (ash), Bourne-Again shell (dash), Public domain Korn shell (pdksh), Debian Almquist shell (dash) and MirBSD Korn shell (mksh). The C shell is compatible with Hamilton C shell, C shell (sch) and Tenex C shell (tcsh). Exotic shells identify with zoidberg, es, Perl Shell (psh), Friendly interactive shell (fish), pysh, rc, wish and scsh. Historic shells are Marshey shell (sh) or PWB shell (sh) and Thompson shell (sh) (Nemeth et al, 2010).

Unix shell is a shell or command-line interpreter offering a traditional user interface for Unix-like systems and Unix operating system. Commands are entered into the computer as text which directs the computer operations, text is entered at the command line interpreter through creating text scripts. There are diverse commands that are executed on forms of text.

 

References

Nemeth, E. et al. (2010). UNIX and Linux System Administration Handbook. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Prentice Hall.

Peek, J. et al. (2001). Learning the UNIX Operating System. Sebastopol, CA: O’Reilly Media.

Powers, S. et al. (2002). Unix Power Tools. Sebastopol, CA: O’Reilly Media.

Robbins, A. (2005). Unix in a Nutshell. Sebastopol, CA: O’Reilly Media.

Sarwar, S. & Al-Saqabi, K. (2002). LINUX & UNIX Programming Tools: A Primer for Software Developers. Boston: Addison-Wesley.

 

 

 

Research Critique of a Quantitative Study in Nursing

Protection of the human participants

According to the authors, participation was necessary so as to find out whether maltreatment of the elderly in nursing homes in the Israeli framework was associated with licensed homes, not-for-profit or for-profit homes, service fees levels, or work environment. The authors did not identify any risks for participating in the study.

No. this is attributable to the fact the fact that the study followed random sampling. After the researcher had received approval to continue with the research, he sampled various departments at every care facility during different times of a day. This was done randomly. Self- administered questionnaires were then distributed to at most ten employees in every sampled department at every home.

The subjects did not participate voluntarily. There was a ninety five percent response rate since after 600 questionnaires were issued out, only 510 were completed successfully and returned. If the participants had participated voluntarily in the study, there would have been a one hundred percent response rate.

Yes. During the first stage, meetings were arranged with the individual who represented elder abuse in the long-term facilities. This was done in both the ministry of social affairs and ministry of health. This was aimed at receiving consent to carry out a study in the facilities that were under their supervision. Later, there were meetings with the facilities’ directors so as to present the study’s aims, the proposal, and questionnaires. The local ethics committee’s consent was obtained in each facility (Natan & Lowenstein, 2010). Following approval, the researcher gave the questionnaires to the participants personally. Every participant was guaranteed anonymity and the fact that the findings would be used solely for the research’s goals.

Data collection

The authors identified the two dependent variables as maltreatment existence and the various manifestations including physical neglect, mental neglect, financial exploitation, sexual violence, mental abuse, and physical violence. The independent variables involved in the study were not identified and defined (Graneheim & Lundman, 2004). Data was collected through information from every facility and staff questionnaires.  The researcher use questionnaires since it was possible to fashion or design them depending on the goals of the study. The first part asked about the facility’s details and the respondents’ professional and demographic details. The second part contained questions about Iowa Dependent Adult Abuse Nursing Home. The data was collected at various times of the day. After approval and sampling of the departments, self- administered questionnaires were given out to approximately ten employees in every department at every home. The participants then completed the questionnaires on their own and returned them (Natan & Lowenstein, 2010).

Data management and analysis

Owing to the fact that the variables did not produce a normal distribution, the analysis used non-parametric tests; (MW-test) Mann-Whitney test and KS-test (Kolmogorov-Smirnoff test). Findings dealing with independent variables which were quantitative, discrete variables were examined through calculating the Spearman-coefficient correlations (Burns & Grove, 2011).   This is a statistic that is utilized as a correlation measure in non-parametric statistics in cases where the data appears in nominal form. The authors do not discuss how the process’ rigor was assured.  SPSS 14, a statistical computer program that includes research variables, the research population’s descriptive statistics, and inferential statistics for assessing the hypotheses was used. To reduce the researchers’ bias effects, M-W tests were used to compare findings dealing with independent variables.

Findings and interpretation of the findings

More than half of the workers involved in the study reported that they had abused the elderly and a majority of the incidents involved mental, physical, and neglect (Leininger, 1985).  The interpretation for this finding was that neglect involves an omission act where the patients’ needs are not met. Respondents viewed neglect as systemic as opposed to personal denial of basic needs. Respondents do not possess a moral qualm to report such incidents and the acts originate from institutional challenges as opposed to malicious and personal intents.

The findings of the study are valid and an accurate indication of the present reality. My take is that the findings are confident since the study is a confirmation of the need for protecting the vulnerable and elderly individuals living in long-term care facilities. The researchers do not mention any limitations associated with the study (Burns & Grove, 2011).

There exists a coherent logic towards the findings’ presentation (Leininger, 1985).  Maltreatment and abuse are evident and there is a need for establishing enforcement facilities and extrinsic government systems to examine facilities’ orientation periodically. This will prevent maltreatment and promote patient satisfaction. It will form an unequivocal policy decisions’ foundation to close down facilities that do not meet standards.

Policymakers and consumers in search of workforce stability involving long-term care need to advocate for increased advancement opportunities, benefits, and wages for front line workers. This is because immense hard work is required from them and they are entrusted with delicate care roles (Graneheim & Lundman, 2004).  Relatives have a role in preventing and reporting elder mistreatment and abuse that paid caregivers are associated with in long-term care. Relatives need to be trained so as to ensure that they identify abuse and its signs. The researchers do not offer suggestions for future studies.

 

 

References

Burns, N., & Grove, S. (2011).  Understanding Nursing Research (5^th ed.).  New York: Elsevier.

Graneheim, U. H., & Lundman, B. (2004). Qualitative content analysis in nursing research: concepts, procedures and measures to achieve trustworthiness. Nurse education today, 24(2), 105-112.

Leininger, M. M. (Ed.). (1985). Qualitative research methods in nursing. New York: Saunders.

Natan, M. B., & Lowenstein, A. (2010). Study of factors that affect abuse of older people in nursing homes. Nursing Management17(8): 20-24.

Daoism

Daoism makes naturalness and conceptual play central to the transformation of self that is crucial to human living. This is a concept that I am a proponent to due to the various effects and influence that Daoism (previously called Taoism) has had on me. In this paper, I will argue towards the importance of Daoism to human living as it is central to the transformation of self. The criticism against Daoism will also be discussed on this essay.

United States has recently embraced philosophy from the eastern world. Daoism is one of the most important and appreciated philosophies by the Americans. Feng-shui is also equally considered an interest, which is the balancing of energy by organizing ones living space in a given way. It can be termed as a new culture in young people. It enables them change their ways of life by setting their homes, standards and values in different versions or classes.

It’s usually a common thing to notice many western people in parks use the Chinese art to try and balance their energy. Many Americans are familiar with the symbol of yin and yang. Some time back, it was used by Ocean Pacific (PO) as their icon or symbol. I learned later while still an adolescent what its source was and intended meaning. Its origin can be traced back to the ancient Chinese people who lived in china with its religious philosophy being derived from Taoism (Fowler 35).

Most people do not have even the slightest clue pertaining to the origin of Taoism but are aware of the elements it advocates and what it tends to communicate to the people. This symbol of Yin and Yang is often virtually viewed to contain everything. Its contents are the reality in the current world.  The main theme Taoism philosophy focuses on is reality. In the Chinese language, it can be referred to by the name Tai Chi Disk. Tao’s source can be defined as the way of the universe, nature and balance (Fowler 35). This is the reality that neither written and spoken language nor thought can understand. The main purpose of life is to adapt human lives to the way of the universe. A state of being is by being itself (Cooper and Joseph 62). To critically understand the basics of Taoism, we first have to look at its foundations through analyzing its foundations and its principles.

In china, Taoism is one of the most crucial strains in the minds of the Chinese people. Unlike Christian and Islam traditions, Taoism by itself has no single origin. Its sources can be traced back to the philosophers of Civil War Period whose interest was on the Tao or way of nature rather than the Tao of society. Another likely source of Taoism is the Shamans and magicians. The two groups of people played very important roles to the lives of Chinese people during the Shang Dynasty (Hubbard 25).

The creation of Taoism can be associated with two main philosophers. First is Lao Tzu, who is estimated to have been in existence between the sixth and third century BCE. He is the creator and founder of the foundation of the Taoist philosophy. Sources from the legends indicate that Lao Tzu was mysteriously conceived by a shooting star. He lived all his life as a scholar at the Ying-Yang school of philosophy (Rosenthal). In his old age, which was after retirement, Lao Tzu wished to live a simple life out in the mountains. He was, however, forced by one of his guards to document his life’s wisdom. Within two days, he presented the guard with a short script titled The Tao Te Ching (Cooper and Joseph 62). In it, he observed that people should transform back to their original condition of nature with complete personal tranquility. Not much is known of his life including whether he contributed to the authorship of the book Tao TeChing. It’s also thought that he was not the sole writer of the book. Fellow teachers at Ying-Yang school assisted him. He is, however, given credit and acknowledgement for the authorship of the book Tao TeChing. Chuang Tzu, who lived between 369-286 BCE, is the other probable philosopher of Taoism. He authored a book with the same teachings to that of Lao Tzu. The book is, however, viewed as complicated in its outlook compared to TaoTeChing (Hubbard 24).

The third and equally important source of Taoism is Shamanism. With regard to shamans, it was written by many people who remain unknown to date. Shamans were designated religious people who gave varied services to the society. They were healers and destroyers of evil spirits. In other words, they were people associated with the spiritual world. Shamans constituted both men and women (Hubbard 24) Women were significantly better shamans. They performed exorcism rites at given times of the year when calamities like drought hit the society. The involvement of women in shamans was essential because the ideal society in Taoism observes issues to do with feminist and matriarchy. This was due to the fact that women formed the core of the larger Chinese community. Shamans made Taoism have more of a religious outlook than a philosophical one (Hubbard 26). All these foundation of Taoism have a sense of naturalism and simplicity in man’s daily life.

There is a slight variation between Laozi and Zhuangzi as described by Moeller. First, it is thought that Laozi came before Zhuangzi with his work Tao Te Ching. Laozi is also considered to be the father of Taoism (Moeller) and mostly the religious part based on the mystical nature of Laozi. Zhuangzi on the other hand is considered to be the person who advanced the philosophical Taoism. Laozi is respected in the religious nature of Taoism and ofeten refered to as Taishang Laojun which in simple terms means one of the three pure stones. The legends indicate that Laozi’s philosophy was quickly adopted by the people of his time and thus formed a religious organization with Laozi being regarded as a god. The works of  Laozi are in paradox, with numerous appropriation of ancient sayings mixed with repetition, rhyme and symmetry that give it a rythm thus can be read as an analogy. The philorophy is also marred with meditation, self awareness and myriad creatures. Laozi describes the Tao as the foundation of all existence which the core characteristics of being entirely humble while at the same time being unseen and omnipotent.

Zhuangzi on the other hand is known for his philosophical concepts of Taoism based on his detailed works (with 33 chapters) that also bear his name. The work was therapeutically sceptical with elements of western relativism (Van Norden 143) and promoted various aspects of Daoism as it is clearly illustrated by Bryan W. Van Norden in his book Introduction to Classical Chinese Philosophy. The philosophy emphasized that life is limited but the knowledge to be gained during a lifetime is not limited. as such, Zhuangzi found it foolish for one to use the limited in the persuit of the unlimited. the Zhuangzi philosophy talks of life and death (that life is good and death is bad) and concepts such as beauty which are relative. The people who lived after Laozi and Zhuangzi however put their works together and were able to bring up Taoism to be what it is today. However, there were slight variations as illustrated above on the philosophies. The similarity between the philosophies is what promoted the unification of the ideas into the philosophy and religion of Taoism. The critical aspect of the conformity of these philosophies to my thesis is the aspect of naturalness in the integration of self and the accomplishment of happiness in humanity.

Taoism can also be referred to as the nameless philosophy. Other themes it concentrates much on are; theme of intuition, theme of spontaneity, theme of simplicity and the way of nature. According to Taoism philosophy, the universe works in its own mysterious ways. In case a person tries to pressure the world with self-motives, harmony is distorted (Moeller).  In my life, the application of these principles brings about peace of mind, patience and the understanding of other people’s lives and principles. Naturalness helps in the human development as the self does not suffer strife through wanting more than enough. The simple life is adequate to everyone with not fights for resources or disputes among the people. Being one with the universe crates a sense of belonging and thus transformation of self.

There are various forms criticism that Taoism faces including the opinion that the philosophy does not promote the concept of an individual’s wants claiming that it is either a cause of the problem or the problem itself. Taoism philosophy, however, does not propose that what one wants or insist will cause or be the problem. Contrary to that, it tries to assert that one needs to consider the universe and place will in respect and the way that accommodates all. For ones’ aims to be achieved, one has to consider the wellbeing of others (Cooper and Joseph 62). The consideration of other while making important decision furthers the mission of happiness in my life. Taoism doctrine is The Way and its Power. This philosophy is thought to have been authored by Lao-Tzu is quickly getting global admiration and audience. The key concepts of Taoism include; the flowing power, living simply, winds and waters, cosmic energy and action–less action (Moeller). Integration of these concepts in my life has been greatly beneficial.

Taoism is very popular philosophy. The practice has over thirty million followers. The basic nature of Taoism is sharing peace and energy. Through this religion, people learn to live peaceful lives with harmony. People around the world continue to open their minds and embrace the religion as it brings peace.  United States has recently embraced philosophy from the eastern world. Taoism is one of the most important and appreciated philosophies by the Americans. It can be termed as a new culture in young people. It enables them change their ways of life by setting their homes, standards and values in different versions or classes.

However, most people who try to practice the concepts and principles of Taoism do not have even the slightest clue pertaining to its origin. The fact that they are aware of the elements it advocates and what it tends to communicate to the people makes them happy enough to practice it. Personally, I would propose that any follower of Taoism should dig dipper into the philosophy to be able to understand and put it into full practice. The moment and understand the question of how Taoism came to be what it is today, they will be able to understand why they are doing things the way they are. What one wants is promoted by the Taoism philosophy. The philosophy does not propose that what one wants or insist will cause or be the problem. Contrary to that, it tries to assert that one needs to consider the universe and place will in respect and the way that accommodates all. Once you put your wants in line with the universe, conformability and a happy life will come your way.

 

Works Cited

Cooper, J. C., and Joseph A. Fitzgerald. An illustrated introduction to Taoism: the wisdom of the sages. Bloomington, Ind.: World Wisdom, 2010. Print.

Fowler, Jeaneane D.. An introduction to the philosophy and religion of Taoism: pathways to immortality. Portland, Ore.: Sussex Academic Press, 2005. Print.

Hubbard, Benjamin Jerome, John T. Hatfield, and James A. Santucci. An educator’s classroom guide to America’s religious beliefs and practices. Westport, Conn.: Libraries Unlimited, 2007. Print.

Smith, Huston. The illustrated world’s religions: a guide to our wisdom traditions. San Francisco: Harper San Francisco, 1994. Print.

Moeller, Hans-Georg. Daoism Explained: From the Dream of the Butterfly to the Fishnet Allegory. Open Court Publishing Company, 2013.

Norden, Bryan W. Van. Introduction to Classical Chinese Philosophy. Hackett Publishing, 2011.

 

Virtues and values

When is the right time to shut down breathing machines? Who has the right to make decisions when the patient cannot communicate due to their condition? These are tough questions and need guidance to make the right move. Healthcare professionals face difficult decision-making processes. The decision they make observe medical treatments, religious believes, professional attributes and moral principles. Healthcare ethics large revolve around virtues, values, heath, suffering, and death. The deeds and stance of a person vastly determines their disposition (Hurka, 2001). Those deemed ethically upright have strong values and virtues. In this paper, we find the disparity between these qualities and relevance in different areas of discipline. Acquiring a habit is not easy since it needs discipline, determination, and a constant reminder. Surprising, some people have natural virtues and values, which make it easier for them to adapt in different environments.

On a proficient setting, the virtues and value of a personage goes a long way in aiding them to unravel problems and become great in the society. In this paper, we elaborate in detail, the application of virtues, and values in solving health care ethical dilemmas.

Difference between virtues and values

There are different types of values. This includes personal, subjective, cultural, or principle. Some values are inborn and some up pick along the way, in the matter of cultural or subjective values. Values are a large predilection dealing with apposite course outcome or action. It guides the mindset of an individual in aiding them determine right from wrong. Some values are inborn whiles some are adapted. They influence the behavior and attitude of an individual. Examples of values include ‘excellence deserves admiration’, ‘equal rights for all’, and ‘people should be treated with respect and dignity’ (Brady, 2005).

A virtue is a positive attribute, brings out good perceptions. Anyone, who has a virtue has good values, principles, and defined as a good moral being. The opposite is a vice. This means that one lacks direction, good ethics, and principles (Keller, 2007). Benjamin Franklin developed the moral perfection to describe virtues. In his autobiography, he stated virtues included resolution, order, frugality, silence, temperance, justice, and humility.

Characteristics of values

Based on universal human experience, five characteristics of values are evident. They are a litmus test for behaviors and attitudes in the society. Values create self-awareness to judge behavior. When in conflict, our bodies act differently. This creates a conflict between our values and behaviors. However, when your mind is conscious, you can control the behaviors of your mind and body to make informed decisions (Keller, 2007). We can express values by word of mouth or in writing. This creates the guideline of languages, in order to command attention from others. However, the tone of the voice or choices of words give an authoritative voice, and commands respect. Values include continuous choices made to resolve any situation one is facing. Some issues demand urgent attention; this is called the range order relationship.

Characteristics of virtues

Virtues define the character of an individual. This applies in different areas like the workplace, family setting, and social gatherings. The moral virtues highly determine the reaction one has in different situations. Virtues are acquired through experience. It is necessary to acquire them in for the benefit of living in harmony with other people and solving different situations you face (Hurka, 2001). Adapting the proper motive, when reacting to situations defines ones virtue. Motives like goodwill, generosity, and wishing success to another person, show positive intent. In order to live well, it is important to have different virtues. This is because they play a central role in our lives. They include honesty, objectiveness, fairness, and truthful to ourselves and to others.

Resolving health care ethical dilemmas

Health care ethical dilemmas involve choosing between two or more morally acceptable action. In this case, one choice hinders you from choosing the other option, or chooses between evenly undesirable alternatives. Many medics find it hard to make decisions due to economic stress, advance in technology, and continuous renewals in team based approaches. This complicates the ethical issues in the healthcare department. Dealing with ethical dilemmas is not an easy task even for seasoned clinicians. This is an involving and emotional process, leading to numerous decision-making processes. Applying the ethical theories like moral relativism, Kantian absolutions, and utilitarianism give guidance to the medic in clarification, and solving conflicts (Chappell, 2006). Other ethical principles which medical adapt before making major decisions include justice, beneficence, autonomy, and non-malfeasance. This only works when the values are adapted on a step-by step basis. It simplifies the process and aids in resolving healthcare dilemmas.

Medical case

A 40 year old man is rushed hospital after a hit and run accident. He does not have any close family members or friends to assist him. The doctors start the first aid process and they find him bleeding profusely and need permission to operate him or end up paralyzed. When the patient regains consciousness, the doctors inform him of the condition and want the go ahead to continue with the surgery. The blood tests how he has a high percentage of drugs in the system. The patient does not want to remain paralyzed nor undergo the surgical operations. The medics are in a dilemma since they do not have any relative to consult about the procedure and his current state of health. However, the doctors decide to go forth and stop the bleeding even though the patient will remain paralyzed all his life. When he is awake, the patient cannot recall anything that happened and is grateful the doctors saved his life.

In the above example, the medics employed medical ethics. The values they adapted included deciding right from wrong, following the rulebook of medicine, and justice.

Did the doctors do justice by going ahead with the medical procedure?

Ethical analysis does not have foundations for religious beliefs. It sets views in order to make decisions one will recognize as true, regardless of their religious views. The patient in this case did not want to live. If the doctors listened to him, they would have let him die. However, they employed social justice. The current law implies everyone has the right to live when there is a chance for saving, even in the most serious medical cases (Sugarman & Sulmasy, 2010).

Why did the doctors not listen to the patient?

In the medicine world, when a patient is conscious, they do have the rights to make decisions about their condition, and procedures they can undergo in the presence of a doctor or family member. In a case where they are unconscious, they cannot partake in decision making. In such cases, the medic seeks counsel from close relatives. The doctors’ advice the family accordingly based on the procedures they want to conduct and the situation facing the patient. In this case, the patient did not have any family member present; hence, there is no need for consultation. Before the patient is involved in major decision-making processes, they have to undergo tests. This guarantees they are in the precise state of intellect. Factors like shock, drug influence, and illness make it hard for patients to make wise resolution. In this case, they found existence of drugs. According to law, this state hinders the patient from making any conclusion (Sugarman & Sulmasy, 2010).

How were values and virtues adapted in this case?

Truthfulness and honesty- the medics elaborated the true nature of the patient’s ailment

Justice-each patient has the right to treatment regardless of religion, social status, or financial abilities. Beneficence- medics are required by law to serve in the best interest to save the life of the patient through all means necessary.

Conclusion

In the medical world, medics face numerous challenges. Applying and adapting to medical ethics and general rule of life, they manage to make decisions. Failing to observe medical guidelines leads to scuttle decisions in medical procedures, devoid of caring for the welfare of the patient, and inconclusive results. All medics should apply values and virtues, and ensure each decision made reflects ethical laws in medicine. Medical law paves way for formation of medical teams, ethical committees and applies the medical law.

 

References

Brady, M. (2005). The Value of the Virtues, Philosophical Studies, 12(5), 85–144.

Chappell, T. (2006). Values and Virtues. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Hurka, T. (2001). Virtue, Vice, and Value. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Keller, S. (2007). Virtue Ethics is Self-Effacing.  Australasian Journal of Philosophy, 85 (2):         221–32.

Sugarman, J. & Sulmasy, D. (2010). Methods in medical ethics. Philosophy, 76: 239–50.

 

 

 

 

U.S.-EUROPEAN UNION (EU) BEEF HORMONE DISPUTE

 

Overview of the dispute

For the past fifteen years, the United States and the European Union have been having disputes on the use of growth hormones in Cattle. This disagreement was over a ban on the use of growth promoting hormones in cattle. In 1989 when the European Union placed a ban on the importation of beef from cattle treated with growth hormones. This effectively cuts out the United States from exporting its beef. The United States asserted that beef from cattle treated with the approved growth hormones did not pose public health risks, therefore, proof wrong the EU ban. There are several studies conducted in addition to the studies carried out by the EU, international food safety standard setting body as well as codex supporting the United States position.  This dispute took a positive turn in 1996, after the United States presented its case against the European Union to the World Trade Organization (Crump & Odell 2008).  Following a thorough review presented from the scientific studies, the World trade Union ruled in favor of the United States, following the evidence of no proven data to back the EU allegations.

The imposition of the EU ban is not consistent with the World Trade regulations and principles, therefore after the ruling the EU were given three years, until 1999 to bring their measures to compliance. The current debate is on EU compliance with the World Trade Organization rulings honoring its obligations under the international agreements. For example, during the Uruguay negotiations, the European Union made a commitment to uphold the principles and obligations set by the World Trade Organization. B y maintaining its ban the EU does not further the objective of protection of the public, instead it undermines the World Trade Organization agreements on sanitation (SPS), inviting other countries to break their international obligations.  In 2009, the United States trade representatives of the outgoing Bush administration announced the transformations on the European Union products subject to the increase of tariffs under the disputes.  Following the increase in the tariffs, the EU alleged that this action was more punitive, than the currently imposed trade sanctions. However, the EU made a decision to hold further actions until the beginning of the Obama administration. Finally, in May 2009, following the negotiations carried out the settlement to resolve this long dispute.

United States argument in favor of the beef hormone

Growth hormones are widely used in production of beef in the United States and in other meat exporting countries. The US maintains that the Federal Food approves all the drugs administered to the animals under the Cosmetics Act 21 U.S.C. 301. In the current market, there are approximately 30 animal growth-promoting products. In addition, several other countries have approved the use of the growth promoting hormones. For example, countries such as Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Japan amongst other countries have approved the use of these hormones. The use of hormones is not allowed in the EU countries following the several rights and regulations set by the EU single market ban. However, the EU has continued to ban the imports of hormone treated meat restricting most export of meat to limited quantity certifies without the use of hormones. (Johnson & Hanrahan 2010)

The Food and Drug Administration as well as the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) maintains that the use of these hormones have no significant impacts on the  physiological safety of the foods for  humans. In the United States, hormones have been used in the meat production since the 1950 (Johnson & Hanrahan 2010).  Most of the large-scale cattle producing companies use the growth hormones because they allow the cattle to grow faster on less feed and produce leaner meat. The leaner carcasses are in line with the consumer preferences for diet reduction and reduced fat. The hormones used in the cattle include the compound naturally occurring in the body of the animals; hence, the hormones mimic these naturally occurring compounds. For example, other hormones such as the melengesterol acetate improved weight gain in cattle and it is approved for use as a feed additive.

The EU beef hormone ban

The European enacted its ban on both the production and the importation of meat derived from the animals treated with growth promoting hormones. This ban restricted the use of natural hormones, due to the therapeutic purpose, banning the use of synthetic hormones and the importation of animal beefs, until 1989.  Initially the ban only covered the meat products from animals treated with more than six growth hormones, which are alternatively approved in the United States. In 2003, the commission amended the policy to ban the use of all the hormones, to pave way to seek for complete scientific approval. This ban also restricted the trade of meat products in the EU countries, from the countries that regularly treat the farm meat with growth hormones. (Thomsen 2010)

The EU justifies its ban on the reasons of protection of the consumer’s health and safety. This ban followed the initial ban in the 1970’s on the illegal use of one of the growth hormones referred to as the diethylstilboestrol in France and in consumers. This raised concerns about the possible negative effects of hormones in livestock production. Furthermore, during the 1990s, the EU consumer meat demands were adversely affected by the outbreak in British cattle of bovine spongiform encephalopathy. This is a fatal disease of mad cow disease. Scientifically, the established disease correlation with the other diseases decreased the consumer safety of the food. Many of the transgenic types of plants and other forms of biotechnology foods are restricted from entering the food chain.

The EU maintains that there is no enough data on the type, and amount of growth hormone residues in meat. Therefore, due to the lack of enough quantitative data, it is not possible to understand the risks associated with the hormones. The EU maintains that their claim is backed by their scientific research data, though there is no conclusive testing done on the issue. From 1999 to 2002, the European Commission Committee on Veterinary Measures relating to the public health issued a series of opinions on the potential risks of hormone residues on meat product. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) conducted most recent studies on the topic in 2007. The study covered the recent scientific evidence that emerged from the previous studies carried out between 1999 and 2002, relating to the use of natural and synthetic growth hormones. From their results, the consumption of red meat from the alleged cattle with residues of the growth hormones and their metabolites pose health risks to the consumers. Some of their evidence mentions that estradiol growth hormone is a potential carcinogenic compound.  Based on these scientific reviews the EU reaffirms public health concerns about the large-scale use of hormones in the EU.

Other factors such as the political and economic considerations have contributed to the commissioner’s decisions to continue with its policies to the ban on hormone treated beef. The producers and the consumer’s interests continuously exert pressures on the EU trade policy officials to hold their position banning the hormone treated beef. The EU beef sector benefits from the support of its domestic products and the trade policies on the EU Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), which have resulted in the accumulation of large to store surpluses. Most of the EU import ban also resulted in the accumulation of large beef surpluses. On the other hand, the majority of the European cattle owners support the European Union ban because they are concerned about competition from cheaper imported beef from the United States and other countries. In this effect, the domestic policy issues and the rules of settlement and other SPS measures have restricted the policies on the rules disputing the settlement or the customs regulations.

The hormone dispute in the WTO status

The EU and the US have continued to challenge the EU beef ban in the WTO, questioning whether the ban is consistent with the obligations under the EU policies. After several series of consultations, appealing to the cases, the EU and the US claims that the formal proceedings the EU and the US have stated their respective positions on the case. The case has proven to be an intractable as it involves the internal national regulation as well as policy issues, and the SPS measuring to restrict trade rather than commercial disputes over the trade and customs regulations (Crump & Odell 2008). In 2009, further consultation between the US and the EU has not yielded any fruits, with EU expected to seek a dispute from the settlement panel on whether the ban was consistent with the SPS agreements. Although the WTO has issued decisions that have questioned the validity of the ban, the EU has voted repeatedly in the favor of the ban (Hofmann & Kim 2009).  The EU has concerns on the worries questioning the animal welfare, the quality of meat and the effects of the hormones on the EU beef and milk stores.

The laws set in place to govern the ban have been reissued, with several updates since 1988 to 2009. The EU maintains that its claims to support the ban have support from the several studies on the potential human and health associated risks with the hormone treated beef (Ford 2001). On the other hand, the United States has backed up their claim on the adequate risk assessment, maintaining that there is a clear worldwide scientific consensus supporting the safety of the consumers after eating hormone treated meat. In return, the United States started the trade sanctions as authorized by the World Trade Organization, in the form of importing high tariffs of EU agricultural products. To complicate the matters further, the WTO issued a mixed ruling in 2008, allowing the United States to proceed with the trade sanctions while also allowing the EU to maintain its ban (Daugbjerg & Swinbank 2008).  Resulting from this the United States has continued with its trade sanctions, while the EU has continued to maintain its ban. The WTO body reversal on the scientific evidence has led to some people arguing that this has led to more differential national government risk assessment (Grimmett 2011).

From the dispute, I support the US in their stand that the beef from cattle they export are only treated with approved growth hormones, therefore pose no health risks. There is a clear worldwide scientific data to back up their claims, as there are many other countries supporting the safety of the approved and licensed hormones (Wallach & Sforza 2011). These hormones are used according to the veterinary doctor’s prescriptions in addition to good animal rearing husbandry. The US claims that their position is supported by enough scientific reviews, and the international standards and the long-term administration of the hormones to cattle to enhance their growth. The use of hormones in cattle is safe, when applied following good veterinary practices. The US claims are also supported by other safety assessments done by the FDA, comparable to the results from other countries. The EU own scientific conference in 1995 concluded that there was no possible health risks to the consumers due to the use of natural sex hormone for growth.

 

Conclusion

The conflict has made significant impacts on the trade relations across the Atlantic, affecting directly and indirectly the trade system. Some of the present choices include the removal of the EU ban, with or without a policy   on allowing the EU consumers to make a choice of the meat products. The beef hormone is a test on how the WTO’s dispute settlement procedures put in place work, and how the provisions can face interruptions resulting from lack of understanding of member countries. To the US, their beef poses no health risks; while the EU claims that the enacted ban is to protect the beef market in Europe.  The SPA Agreements need clarification, as the members consider adequate scientific justification for the trade restriction and the ways in which the specific obligations will be corrected. One of the most significant aspects of the SPS is to give prominence to the uses of the international standards in the setting of the international standards.

 

References

Crump, L & Odell, JS 2008, Analyzing complex US trade negotiations.Negotiation Journal, 24(3), 355-369.

Daugbjerg, C & Swinbank, A 2008, Curbing agricultural exceptionalism: The EU’s response to external challenge. The World Economy, 31(5), 631-652.

Ford, RA 2001, Beef Hormone Dispute and Carousel Sanctions: A Roundabout Way of Forcing Compliance with World Trade Organization Decisions, The. Brook. J. Int’l L., 27, 543

Grimmett, J 2011, WTO Dispute Settlement: Status of US Compliance in Pending Cases. DIANE Publishing.

Hofmann, T & Kim, SY 2009, The Political Economy of Compliance in WTO Disputes. In International Political Economy Society Conference in College Station, Texas.

Josling, T, Roberts, D, & Hassan, A 1999, The beef-hormone dispute and its implications for trade policy. Working Paper.

Johnson, R, & Hanrahan, CE 2010, The US-EU beef hormone dispute.Congressional Research Service (CRS) Report, 40449.

Shaffer, GC, & Pollack, MA 2008, The EU regulatory system for GMOs.Uncertain Risks Regulated, 269.

Thomsen, PM 2010, US EU beef hormone and poultry disputes.

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Taylor, CR, Walsh, MG, & Lee, C 2003, The US/EU beef controversy and a proposed framework for resolving standards disputes in international trade.Journal of Consumer Affairs, 37(1), 101-122.

Wallach, L, & Sforza, M 2011, The WTO: Five years of reasons to resist corporate globalization. Seven Stories Press.

 

Organizational Development and Leadership

Averaging each member’s DISC profile gave us a dominance of 45%, an influence of 70%, a steadiness of 40% and a compliance of 20%. There are several implications of having a group with the above DISC profile. Ours is an I group which means that it is characterized by an energetic environment, where much time is spent socializing and in meetings where discussions on innovations are done. The most dominant characteristic for people this group is that they value teamwork and like to craft their own solutions for any problems that arise. They value trust and respect those that are expressive and open because they appear honest and worthy of attention. Experts assert that a group that has a high influence rate usually has people who value socializing and therefore have superior social skills as well as being charismatic (Duck, 2006).

The downside of having a high influence in a group like ours is that those among us who are not people-oriented are usually frustrated by the attempts at socializing since they do not value niceties and activities that are done publicly. The other disadvantage of having an emphasis on influence is that the group tends to have little attention to details and therefore prone to poor planning meaning that it becomes difficult to actually implement the bold ideas that we keep discussing.

Since the group culture pulls towards constant generation of new ideas, it is possible that the group changes directions too often to ever be able to accomplish one goal. This means that some members are prone to becoming impatient as they may be keen on seeing through a particular project that appeals to them. Members could also disagree on the responsibility of ensuring that details are tended to since some of them have difficulty in this area. Potential risks might also be overlooked as group members move onto the next idea or project before the existing one has been thoroughly completed.

Member A has a very rich imagination which makes him excel at promoting ideas. He is therefore very key during brainstorming sessions as he always thinks outside the box. His blind spot is that he does no seem to ever dwell on a single idea to its logical conclusion. He is prone to gliding over ideas as he never pays attention to details.

Member B is the most engaging person as he continuously challenges others to better themselves. He is open and has a clear thought process which means that if he is asked a question, he usually gives straightforward answers. He is usually willing to give solutions to problems as they arise. His blind spot is that he tends to overemphasize his status. He is also a little nagging as he tends to push people who are unwilling hence overwhelming them.

Member C has a very strong sense of duty. She creates an atmosphere of comfort and is usually reliable and dependable to carry out her responsibilities to the best of her ability. She likes to get things done in the right manner. Her blind spot is that she is not competitive and indecisive in matters that need quick decisions. She does not challenge the group members as she dislikes confrontation and therefore does not offer constructive criticism.

Our group has a rich composition of personalities. Therefore, members only need to be more accommodating in order to work in harmony. As some group members are strongly opinionated with some preferring to avoid criticisms, it is important that each member work on improving their strengths and also on compromising so as to harmoniously coexist with others.

References

Duck, J., (2006). Making the connection: Improving virtual team performance through behavioral assessment profiling and behavioral cues. Developments in Business Simulation and Experiential Learning, 33: 358-9

 

 

 

Which are the Most Beneficial Cut between the GST/HST and Income Tax?

The federal government decided to cut the generation skipping transfer tax (GST) in the recent years. GST is the tax imposed on gift, bequest and inheritance transfer. Ontario later decided to blend in with the ProShares Ultrashort (PST) and created the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) by two percent. Different individuals believe that the government should have transferred the cut to income tax such that the income tax costs would be reduced. This means that people will enjoy their hard-earned money because their labor pay and investment earnings would have increased. This scenario has raised the question on which taxation between the reduction of GST/HST and the reduction of income tax is more beneficial for long growth of the economy when the taxes are cut.

An income tax cut would be more beneficial than the GST and HST cut because of various reasons. According to theory, personal income tax is a reasonably inefficient tax, which penalizes savings (Pratt, Kulsrud & Carnes, 2011). This means that the earners receive less pay because the GST cut results to double taxation. The first taxation is when they receive the income and secondly when the interest is being paid back. Thus, the GST would be more efficient because it taxes expenditure only once. However, in real practice, the income tax does not penalize the savings. This is because of the widespread and prevalent use of tax-deductible investment plans such as RPPs and RRSPs. Moreover, the new plan, Tax-Free Savings Plan (TFSP) has provided an extra shelter to income tax. Hence, when more income tax is saved, individuals would come up with new plans that result to economic growth as compared to GST cut.

Businesses do not pay the GST/HST (Pratt, Kulsrud & Carnes, 2011). The money earned from businesses is subsidized and added to personal income of individuals. This means that reducing income tax is more beneficial for economic growth than GST cuts. The money acquired from income tax can be used for creation of more businesses thus leading to more income. As a result, a cycle of income earnings is formed and this means that more businesses are being created. In the end, the economy grows and this trend is maintained for many years.

On general grounds, reduction of taxes results to two scenarios. The first is an increase on the return of capital and secondly, more money for private consumption is freed (Pratt, Kulsrud & Carnes, 2011). This is because individuals would have saved enough more that they end up using it as capital for their next businesses. The economy would in turn rise because more businesses would be set up and eventually economic growth would be actualized. If the occasion is present for more years, then it means that the individuals would come up with more business plans. Hence, a chain of businesses would be created and economic growth would be experienced.

In addition, people are motivated to save up more of their money for investment purposes when there is reduction on value added tax and income tax. When individuals save up a lot of money, they are inspired to come up with their own businesses. Moreover, when they identify that they are not being taxed on VAT, they end up being more inspired by their work. This fact assumes that public spending does not suffer from any loses which might results to negative effects on economic growth in the end. Therefore, their businesses ten to expand and eventually the economy growth are actualized.

 

References

Pratt, J. W., Kulsrud, W. N., & Carnes, G. A. (2011). Federal taxation. Mason, OH: Cengage Learning.

 

 

Lineups and show-ups

The law allows citizens the right not to incriminate themselves whether they have information that may do so or not. Basically, lineups and show-ups include a form of methods used by the prosecution to collect evidence against a defendant.  Requiring one to stand in front of a commoner, posing as a suspected criminal waiting to be identified is a form of self-incrimination on its own.  More so, it is has been observed over the years that eyewitness identification is one of the major perpetrators of miscarriage of justice.

As much as one has the right to avoid self-incrimination, the government rules out lineups and show-ups as a form of violation of this right. It views lineups and show ups as simply a procedure that the prosecution is entitled to in the quest to gather evidence. The lineup is placed in the same category as scientific analysis of the suspect’s blood samples, hair, and clothing among others. Lineups are therefore not considered as a way of incriminating oneself.

The fact that is a bit challenging is the violation of the Sixth Amendment right with regard to the lineups and show-ups. The law clearly requires the presence of counsel at all crucial stages of an ongoing criminal case as well as a lineup, should it pose a threat to the defendant’s case. Nevertheless, the government states that it is not necessary for a lawyer to be present during a lineup as it is merely a procedure in pursuit of evidence. A lineup is not considered to be a critical stage as the presence of counsel is least likely to affect the process of the lineup.

In my opinion, there is much needed clarity in matters to do with lineups and show ups as to whether it really violates the fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination or not.

References

Stern, S. & Wermiel, S. (2010). Justice Brennan: Liberal champion. Boston, Mass: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.

99 designs

Introduction

Businesses around the globe follow specific steps and formulae to appear unique and attract customers. Their unique design is what keeps them competitive in the market. 99 designs is a company that does not run the way other organizations do. This is because unlike other business, 99 designs doe not employ human resources. Rather, the organization has created a platform in which any willing designer can show case his or her talent to its customers. The company acts as a link between the customers and designers around the world. Although the customers come to the site that the company has created for services, the company does not employ designers directly.

Analysis

In his business model, the customer may get designs at a cheap prize, but he or she may not get the design that the organizations require. This is because the company does not give expectation but freedom of exploration. In 99designs, a client just launches a contest and waits for the best design to emerge. In this case, the client looses because he or she may get the best design at the site, but not the most needed design(Kearns, 2003).

Additionally, professional designers lose their chance to work for the clients who visit the site. 99designs is a site open for students and amateurs. Moreover, the low prices offered at the 99designs site can not attract any professional designer. Because of this, 99designs is a disadvantage for professional designer’s who lose their chance of working for clients who visit the site.

Unlike the traditional business model of processing products from raw materials, and gaining value as they move to the next step, 99design’s primary business model in its value chain does not follow that protocol.  99design’s value chain is nuanced because the firm does not create physical end products (Juon & Greiling, 2012). 99design’s raw materials are the web users that are attracted through the internet to use the services offered at the site.

99design advertises using social media to attract the uses from advertising partners. Customers then flock to other sites as directed to buy their designs (Juon & Greiling, 2012).  In addition, the company offers the attractive prizes to ensure that once a person visits the site, the probability of buying their products is high.

99 designs is different from other business models like logo Works. Logo Works employs employees who work on designs that the customer requests. The difference in the business model is that Logo works is a full organization with its employees. In this case, at Logo Works is more successful as an organization because it has management and planning. Although 99 designs is not a fully functional organization with employees and a management system like the rest of the organizations, the company avoids certain responsibilities. Logo works has to maintain professional relationships with its employees. The management has to ensure that its employees are well managed to avoid problems. They also have to carry out motivational practices, promotions, strategic management and performance appraisal. Logo works also take the responsibility for poorly done work by their designers. Conversely, 99 designs organization does not shoulder any employee responsibility.

The major function of strategic management in Logo Works is to mix various functional branches of an organization fully and ensure they are harmonised (Kearns, 2003). Well harmonised departments correlate to produce efficiency and effectiveness. Through strategic management, the progress of Logo Works is kept under watch. The realization of goals and objectives is clearly marketed and monitored through strategic management.

 

 

 

It appears that 99 designs have made a large customer base with regard to services that they offer at relatively cheap prizes. In this regard, every company with such as customer base has the ability to expand the range of services to be offered to its customers. Many companies and individuals can use such a platform to get their business proposals done as well as their software’s developed (Kearns, 2003). Because of this, 99 designs should evaluate the market and strategically magnetize new customers. Seybold & Marshak, 1998 observe that for a business to expand its market share, the management needs to strategize. Therefore, they need to come up with a new business design to cater for their customers in software development and business proposals.

Conclusion

99designs does not employ any employees but utilizes internet resources to solicit for employee services. 99design’s value chain is nuanced because the firm does not create physical end products. 99design’s raw materials are the web users that are attracted through the internet to use the services offered at the site.  99 designs is different from other business models like logo Works. Logo Works employs employees who work on designs that the customer requests. On the other hand, the organization has created a platform in which any willing designer can show case his or her talent to its customers. The company acts as a link between the customers and designers around the world. Human resource in an organization consists of 80% of success. Well managed human resource creates the best out of an organisation.

 

 

References

Juon, C., & Greiling, D. (2012). Internet marketing: start-to-finish. Indianapolis, Ind.: Que.

Kearns, P. (2003). HR strategy business focused, individually centred. Amsterdam: Butterworth-Heinemann.

Seybold, P. B., & Marshak, R. T. (1998). Customers.com: how to create a profitable business strategy for the Internet and beyond. New York: Times Business.

 

 

 

 

 

The benefits of studying American Literature

American literature identifies with written materials covering United States of America in the earlier times including the colonies. United States was colonized by the British which relates to colonial literature. There are a number of benefits attached to studying American literature which dates to centuries.

The literature reflects on beliefs, human ideas and societies which is essential in the American literature. It has been noted that literature has different claims on life and on the world. Reading American literature will be critical in understanding the value attached to the human beings. Considering the Christian perspective on life, American literature concurs with Christianity in that human life has a worth and inherent in nature as defined in the doctrines of incarnation and Creation (“Why Study American Literature?” Par. 1). Literature is useful in letting people discover and understand the human ways and how it has evolved with time. Modernization has changed the way people view the world and how they respond to stimulus (“Why Study American Literature?” Par. 2). Literature has also enabled people comprehend significant differences in people. Literature in this context enables people understand multicultural aspects and in exploring other people’s life or message without the limitations of the social barriers and time barriers (“Why Study American Literature?” Par. 3,4).

Literature is characterized with human reactions to diverse stimulus in the environment expressed in essays, poems, narratives, diaries and the characters involved in the narratives. Learners are exposed to the human psyche through literature as they engage in analysis and respond to the issues addressed in the literature. Literature enables human beings gain advanced knowledge relating to the mode of response depending on the environment. Learners in most cases compare their lives to that of the literature. Human reactions develop in learners through literature basing on self responses. Literature enable learners in becoming more self awareness and deeper in the understanding of issues (“Why Study American Literature?” Par. 4, 5).

Literature enables learners to discover pride behind culture and community, which culminates to respect to other human beings in the society. Learners are armed with humility, respect and virtues in dealing with people from diverse cultures. Literature allows learners to develop critical analysis where learners test the truth against the literature and compare to the current context in the world view. Literature enable learners to cultivate wisdom by learning what is evil and good; literature in most cases emphasizes on justice which is also emphasized in the worldview in diverse issues (“Why Study American Literature?” Par. 6-8).

Literature in diverse ways offers learners with beauty of stories, literary texts and through messages. It has been noted that God’s glory has been expressed to the learners through narratives, language and materials on creation. Literature also acts as a source of entertainment to self willing readers, mainly at leisure time. Literature is also critical in offering cultural literacy through plots, figures, motifs, genres and movements in expressing heritages in different cultures. American culture is critical in facilitating Christendom and Christian faith which allows readers to respect other religions in the society. American literature has generated diverse controversies of doubt and faith in which learners find the truth by reading literature. Surveys have indicated that learners are exposed to hidden talents and interests necessary in life (“Why Study American Literature?” Par. 9-14).

Studying American literature is influential in understanding earlier life and the current life and the diverse stimulants that shaped the human behaviors. American literature emphasizes on societies, ways of comprehending life, understand human differences, comprehending human reactions, source of knowledge, respecting diversity in cultures, enhancing critical analysis, building wisdom, source of entertainment, understanding of creation, explaining issues of faith and bringing out hidden talents among other benefits.

 

Work Cited

Why Study American Literature? 2013. 26 November 2013 <http://www3.dbu.edu/mitchell/newpage13.htm>.