Role of Women in Society Essay Example for Free

Role of Women in Society Essay Women’s Inequalities When you think of a CEO of a company or of world political leaders, do you think of a man or of a woman? Many, if not most of us, see these positions as being held by men. In this essay, I will explain why women are still not equal to men. In the first paragraph I will discuss inequalities that happen in the workplace. The second section will show the differences that occur within the athletic world. Thirdly, I will explain the differences in education and home life. The United States still seems to be reluctant, to grant true equality, even though we are approaching the twenty-first century, women are still not equal to men. In the workplace, women do not receive the same benefits that men do. Some women do the same job, for the same amount of hours, and still do not receive the same pay for their work. Is there a specific reason behind this? No, it is just one of the many inequalities that goes on the job. As pointed out in the essay by Susan Faludi, Blame it on Feminism, women earn less. The average women’s paycheck is twenty percent less than their male counterparts. Men with only high school education’s make more than some women who have graduated college. Most women are still working. Read more:Â  Role of Women in Modern Society Womens role in society A great deal of debating goes on concerning the role of women in society. How is it that in todays world, where everyone preaches about the value of equality, women still do not occupy the same social, economical or political position as men do? Women try relentlessly to mark their presence outside their kitchens and laundry rooms, yet in the same relentless manner they are being reminded of the true calling of their nature, which limits their perspective for a much more fulfilling life. Whether women ever stood equal with males on a physical and intellectual level in the eyes of society we dont know. Sure, in every era there are heroic and powerful women, but although equal of men, they became his inferior due to pregnancy, birth, etc., forcing them to look to men for protection and economic assistance This dependency, especially economic dependency, became the basis of womens slavery, which often existed, and still exists, after the dependent condition was long gone. In almost every family a man would be the sole provider for the entire family, and although this task comes with an enormous amount of responsibility.

National Integration Remains A Crucial Issue In Pakistan Politics Essay

National Integration Remains A Crucial Issue In Pakistan Politics Essay The present study aims to identify the important problems, which have been responsible for national disharmony and the negative impacts. The study is a stepping-stone, suggesting some concrete proposals, in order to achieve the objective of national integration. INTRODUCTION National Integration remains a crucial issue in Pakistan. There are various forces, which accentuate divisive factors like geography and culture of our country. Religious fundamentalism is one such force while linguistic diversities constitute another. Despite a shared culture for a long period, regionalism has remained a major force, which generates tension because of inequitable development amongst different provinces/regions of the Country. The FATA/FANA and Baluchistan are the best examples in this case, where people have been deprived of economic, political and social justice. All the above forces and factors pose a serious challenge for Pakistans integrity and unity. It is, therefore, necessary to make concerted efforts to strengthen the national integration. Quaid-e-Azam had envisioned that Pakistan would be a state, where all citizens would enjoy equal rights irrespective of caste, creed, sect, or place of birth  [1]  , but it could never become a reality. In a polarized and fragmented society like Pakistan, it is necessary to have the consent of all groups with regards to resolution of their genuine problems. This important aspect was never given a serious thought by political and military rulers. Despite all domestic odds, Pakistan has demonstrated genuine ability to survive as a viable Nation State. Considering the prevailing circumstances, the process of national integration has gained more significance and importance than ever. There is a need of following a correct and pragmatic approach with dispassionate analysis of all the issues jeopardizing the process of national integration. The task of national integration in a plural society like Pakistan is although arduous, yet it can be achieved by bringing in diverging forces together through a political system based on justice, equality and fair play. In order to find out a viable solution for achieving this objective, the following important questions need to be addressed:- Question 1. What are the disintegrating forces in Pakistan and how they can be brought together? Question 2. What are the pillars of national integration and how they can be strengthened? Question 3. What mechanism is needed to be devised to bring all the segments at par economically and politically? Question 4. Where lays our survival as a nation? Aim The identify the important problems being faced by Pakistan, which have been responsible for national disharmony, suggesting concrete proposals, in order to achieve the objective of national integration. PART 1 CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK NATIONAL INTEGRATION Nation and National Integration Nation. A nation is generally defined as a community knit together by common experience over reasonably long past, shaping a common religion, culture and tradition  [2]  . However, different societies have defined it differently according to their own environment. The word Nation comes form a Latin expression Natio, meaning birth or race  [3]  . Integration. The word in its literal sense means fitting together parts to make one whole or incorporation of disparate ethnic or religious elements of the population into a unified society, providing equality of opportunity for all members of that society  [4]  . Keeping in view the definition, Integration can be categorized in Functional and Psychological domains  [5]  . Determinants of National Integration National Objective. National goals are determined from time to time depending upon the national needs. National objectives are the specific Ends that a nation seeks in order to advance, support or defend its national interests.  [6]   Ideology. Ideology means the science or study of ideas. In general sense it refers to the specific manner in which a group of persons thinks  [7]  . Nationalism can develop into a uniting and sufficiently aggressive force, only if the requisite emotional and ideological base exists; but ordinarily, this sentiment takes centuries to mature.  [8]   Religion. Religion is one of the strongest bonds in an ideological state and an essential element of national integration being a sanction of unity. It provides an additional source of pride to the nation and affects national character and habits. In Islam, the loyalty o the Muslims to one another has been institutionalized by the concept of Ummah.  [9]   Language. Language is one of the most enduring artefacts of a peoples culture, and unless people are forced by any system of dominance or conquest, their language can always determine the peoples social physics and history.  [10]   Culture. National integration in multi-cultural states is untenable without an entrenched public culture because this comprises the values shared by all groups and constitutes the common grounds on which the diverse groups conceptualize and appreciate the state.  [11]   Leadership. An effective leader is naturally integrative, who brings together people of different culture, races, genders, personalities and stages of development and integrates them into a whole that is greater than the sum of its parts.  [12]   PART 2 NATIONAL INTEGRATION MOSAIC OF PAKISTAN Religious Facade of Pakistan It was clear as early as pre-independence times that, given the immense ethnic diversity of Pakistan and the strong centrifugal forces, the new state would urgently need a common denominator and that was Islam. Apparently, the religious ideology as the basis of the state was viewed as a tool for nation-building and thwarting possible Indian designs to reject the creation of Pakistan.  [13]   After independence, the religious differences were aggravated by the Ulemas on the basis of sectarianism. The saboteurs launched by anti-state elements fully exploited these differences and religious strength started turning into national weakness  [14]  . In retrospect, what we have now is a divided society on the lines of sectarianism, propagating extreme forms of de-faced shape of the Islam. Religion, instead of serving a unifying force, is now acting as a component of disunity and disharmony. Misconceived Perceptions. The rationale for Pakistans independence notwithstanding, we failed to identify and consolidate other factors that could have contributed towards national integration and societal cohesion in the newly independent state. We remained confused, and still are, as to be a Nation State or Religion State? The results are there in front of us i.e. FATA, FANA, Swat and Baluchistan. Large sections of the population, especially those in the minority provinces, have become increasingly disillusioned  [15]  . Weak Democratic Roots. Democracy could not establish its roots at the time of our independence due to short sightedness of our politicians. The leadership vacuum created in the early years of our history denied us the opportunity of developing a stable political system of governance during various periods ranging from parliamentary and presidential forms, authoritarian system and so on  [16]  . It was the incompetence of Pakistans post-Jinnah political leadership that drew the armed forces heavily into politics and policy-making  [17]  . Political instability, the rampant corruption of the political and bureaucratic à ©lite, and poor governance have given birth to public scepticism of the prevalent system  [18]  . Political/Constitutional Issues. Our political institutions have yet not grown strong enough on power sharing and to fight against the divisive force, which have been working to disintegrate Pakistan. The politicians of Pakistan have been engrossed with internal feuds group, religious sects, economic classes, and leading personalities  [19]  . Regional Diversity. For Pakistan, regionalism had emerged with different complexion. Even the common religion, flag and national ideology could not fully blend Pakistanis together as one entity until today. Ethnic Diversity. Pakistani nation is fairly diverse. Ethnically, Punjabis are dominating followed by Pathans and Sindhis. Punjab-based establishment is looked upon by the rest of the population as well as the dominance of the so-called migratory à ©lite, originating from regions in todays India. There are numerous macro level ethnic identities Lingual Diversity. The lingual diversity became apparent after independence. In case of East Pakistan, we failed to understand that nations are composed of human being, whose deep feelings about such questions as their mother tongue, should not be ignored easily  [20]  . The linguistic differences intensified the problem of national integration and result was riots in most parts of the Country,  [21]  that ultimately cost us separation of our Eastern wing. Economic Irritants. Defining the economic aims and selecting realistic objectives based on economic potential and framework is a pre-requisite for giving out attainable policies. Frequent policy changes due to vested interests of groups, have created instability and impaired credibility of macro economic measures. Social Justice. Inefficient state agencies, selective application of law, and ever-increasing corruption are breeding a culture of negativism in Pakistan. Disparity between the rich and the poor is leading to frustration, misuse of power, and lawlessness. Military Involvement in Civilian Affairs. Army influence in political decision making started with induction of uniformed Ayub Khan in the cabinet as Defence Minister, an since then it has had very negative effect on the society. This has been one of the major cause for the many ills in the society. Role of Bureaucracy. Bureaucratic traditions that came to influence after independence, were essentially a legacy from the British. It has now become a two Way Street where bureaucracy openly seeks political patronage for personal gains and in turn provides personalized service to the politicians. PART 3 PRESENT IRRITANTS TO NATIONAL INTEGRATION OF PAKISTAN FATA and Swat Situation. The Taliban movement in Fata and the NWFP wants to replace the FCR with a medieval legal framework, that is reminiscent of the Arab tribal era. Inability of successive governments to integrate the region into national mainstream brings to fore certain key issues, which have directly or indirectly contributed to its prolonged isolation. Negligence on the part of state institutions, parochial political interests and the naivetà © of the rural folk have given birth to a militant culture that thrives on vandalism, brutality and anarchy  [22]  . Baluchistan Issue. The situation in Baluchistan is a cause of major concern for national integrity. Baloch nationalists are mooting the insurgency as a struggle for greater political autonomy, more control over and royalties from the regions abundant mineral resources, chiefly the gas-fields and against the new cantonments in the Province. The weaponry and communication means being employed by the insurgents thumbprint the foreign power. Economic Turmoil. The current chaotic state of global finance has invalidated the existing orthodoxy in macroeconomic management.  [23]  We are once again on the mercy of IMF after conceding to a $7.6 billons Standby Arrangement signed in November 2008. Global recession has also added to the miseries of people who are vulnerable to be exploited by interest groups, for their vested interests. Worsening Law and Order Situation. Insecure citizens are vulnerable to anti-state and anti-social elements, thereby becoming a liability to national integration. Improving law and order is a major challenge for the nations socio-political integration. If the constitution and the rule of law are not adhered to, such a federation essentially turns into an empire that is controlled by powerful ethnic and social groups  [24]  . Judicial System. Post March 2007 Judicial Crisis, has added tremendously to the miseries of aggrieved people. In this vacuum, Islamic clerics, present their version of judicial system, which by no way, present the true picture of Islam. Recent Governments conceding to Tehrik-e-Shariat-Muhammds brokered deal with local militant leaders on the plea of shariat enforcement, should be an eye opener for rest of the society. Religious Militancy. The phenomenal increase in number of deeni madaris has not only increased sectarianism but also introduced militancy in the Country  [25]  . There are more than 50,000 madrasas operating in Pakistan  [26]  . Lal Masjid incident has been a turning point to the phenomena. Decayed Education System. The literacy rate of the Country is alarming at 49.9%  [27]  , especially in female population, which forms more than 50% of total population. Deep ingress of political parties into the educational institutions is causing divisions. Parallel education systems are segregating the society into classes. Federal Provincial Matters. Concurrent list, quota system, NFC awards, share of divisible pool etcetera and many other legislative provisions, work against the aspirations of the people of smaller provinces for socio-economic and political development. PART 4 THE WAY FORWARD Ideological Issues Ideological Orientation. Fresh ideas aimed at finding new common grounds should be explored and additional cohesive factors identified in order to hold the nation together. National integration in the case of Pakistan should mean establishing a common citizenry, common political and social structures, a common State, and an additional sense of identity, of belonging together. It means building commonality on top of the existing linguistic, ethnic, religious and geographical diversity, and not substituting an artificial new identity for the old ones. Concept of Unity in Diversity. We should subscribe to Weiners public policy strategy for achieving national integration through Unity-in-diversity  [28]  . With inter-provincial economic relations fast developing, unity in diversity appears a realistic national aspirations.  [29]  Rather than suppressing or subjugating the diverse elements, we must chisel these diversities into a fine mosaic. Inculcating Concept of Nationalism. There is a need to develop Pakistani nationalism which should give people the feeling that despite differences, they are people destined for common statehood. This can be done through:- Parity is an inalienable right of all the regions and provinces of Pakistan. The rights of the provinces and autonomy consonant with national interests and agreed in 1973 constitution have to be assured. Pay heed to Quaids motto: Unity, Discipline and Faith (in the same order). Political Issues Political Structure. After practicing all forms of governance, the draw is in favour of a parliamentary form of government, as envisioned in the 1973 constitution (in original shape). Following need consideration:- Pakistans leadership may need to update and even revise its strong centre ideology in favour of more pronounced regional autonomy. Re-demarcation and increase in number of constituencies. Establish autonomous and independent Election Commission. Establish powerful, reliable and neutral accountability body. Bar on minimum education qualification for candidates to contest the elections be lifted. Political Parties Political parties must be made to organize themselves on democratic lines with transparency in their party elections, discipline as well as accounts. If political party obtains less than five percent votes in general election its registration with Election Commission be terminated by law. Political parties must not be allowed by law to influence the working of political activities of student unions in college/universities. Politician elected to hold a government office to relinquish party portfolio. Governance Issues Changing the Administrative Model. We need to change British colonialism administrative model ruthlessly and invent our own. A step towards this direction has already been taken with adoption of Local Government Plan. However, some of the serious reservations of the provinces should be addressed in the new system, to make it more acceptable. Social Justice. Problem of rising unemployment needs to he tackled in a pragmatic manner. Social action programme for education, health, empowerment of women, and population control, is the need of the hour. To avert the social conflicts turning into communal conflicts, establishment of social equilibrium is an essential condition for national integration. Improvement of Judiciary System Judiciary be given constitutional guarantee of its independence to work free of pressure. Judges of superior courts be paid handsomely keeping in view the sensitive and critical nature of their duties. Appointment of superior court judges be on non party basis and free of political strings. Rationalization of NFC Awards. The centre should divide the divisible resources as per agreed formulas strictly in accordance with the awards as per the constitution. We have to revise NFC formula, wherein overt weightage on population should be rationalized by giving more weightage to backwardness, area and revenue generation. More Active Council of Common Interests (CCI). Constitutionally, CCI is just the right forum to discuss the various inter-provincial and federal-provincial irritants, like Net Proceeds Royalties, Concurrent Legislative List vis-à  -vis Provincial Autonomy, Representation of Federating Units in the Top Bureaucracy and Quota System etc. Cohesive Education Policy Cleavages between traditional Islamic educational institutions and modern educational institutions (including elitist pattern), be removed. Maximum incentive to private sector to open schools in rural areas. Their fees and standard may, however, be monitored. Curriculum be made realistic and uniform for all provinces with better quality textbook at subsidised rates. Mismatch between educational preparation and job specification be reduced through vocational training. Urdu language should also be employed as a vehicle to develop cultural unity, common identity and a shared future. Provinces may be allowed to retain the regional languages as a subject after primary level. Bolstering Religious Harmony Islams message of universal tolerance, of peace and respect should be propagated to foster harmony among various religious schools of thought. All the religious militant groups be disarmed with a highhanded policy. Steps be taken for tracking down verified terrorist groups and the concerned countries be diplomatically perused to take necessary steps against these groups. Already chalked out Madrasa Strategy be followed in true letter and spirit. FATA/FANA and Swat Situation We have to bring FATA/FANA into mainstream by initiating process of Land Settlement and promote urbanization, increased focus on Human Resource Development, exploit drivers of growth i.e. minerals and horticulture, development of industries on fringes of FATA and facilitate early creation of Reconstruction Opportunity Zones. We should also initiate dialogue with all the factions fighting against the state machinery in Swat and FATA to address their grievances through political means. Baluchistan Issue Instead of marginalizing the nationalist elements, we need to bring them on board. Two-pronged strategy of Dialogue and Development is the only way to address deprivation. Where applicable, selective use of limited force may also be undertaken as last resort. To address the grievance of the Province, there is a requirement for the Federal Government to invest heavily in raising more job opportunities in the Province. Economic Policies An increasing development budget is essential to overcoming the negative effects of social fragmentation and illiteracy-fed Islamic fundamentalism. Every effort must be made to do away with disparity and economic disequilibrium between the various classes, regions, areas and provinces. The economically backward areas should be brought into the mainstream through education, modernization, mass media of communication, general economic developments, well-being and progress and through an effective system of roads, transportation and communication. Eliminating Unemployment Economic Revival Package for the revival of industries to stimulate production and investment. Government should announce a package for the development of agriculture sector. More Technical and Vocational training facilities should be provided. With a view to reduce educated unemployment; self-employment schemes should be encouraged in true manners. CONCLUSION National integration permits a heterogeneous nation like Pakistan to live in peace, harmony and unity. It is an important element of the nations power potential and binds its military, economical and political strengths. Pakistan has sub-nationalist undercurrents, which run along ethnic lines, seeking their share of national pie and, at times, threatening secession from the federation. Whenever, Pakistans national integration suffered, the underlying causes were political expediencies and lust for power. This research will be a stepping-stone, suggesting some concrete proposals, in order to achieve the objective of national integration. In the wake of the current situation prevailing in the country, where the nation is in despair and gradually losing hope and optimism, the research is very significant to find out the way forward for coming out of the current crisis.

Setting Up A Dummy Corporation :: Get Rich Quick

How to get anything you ever wanted for free... The "system" is a series of checks and balances. It's an insiders club and unless you know the rules or are willing to break them, you'll probably never have a pot to piss in. Not.... Where does it say, we have to put up with, read about or watch on TV, the exploits of people like Donald Trump, Robin Leach or one of the "Kennedy's". Personally, I'm tired hearing about all their bullshit. Who gives a shit what Hillary or Tipper are wearing either? When people like "The Donald" make a poor business investment and can't pay their bills on time, what do they do? They renegotiate. Yep, that's right. They tell the bank "I can't pay" but I'm such a fabulous person you should renegotiate my loan. Bullshit! How fast do you think the bank would have you or me out on our ass? In record time, right? Money is power and unless you have money you're powerless right? Not... Money is an illusion. Power is an illusion. Both are projected by cunning and affluent people and organizations to get what they want. And, if they can't pay for it, they go bankrupt or renegotiate. Why should they have all that luxury and not us? Hell, I can default on a loan as well as any of them! Almost every company in America will ship you goods on credit if you project the right image, ask the right questions and have the right answers...People will kiss your ass if they think you have great wealth. The best resturants will seat you "up front" if they think "you're a player". Why not? Sounds good to me... Is this method for acquiring material things legal? Hell no! But half the shit Big Brother does to us everyday isn't legal either...Want to ride around town in a big black imported car for free? How about a brand new Pentium computer for the office? The kids want Mopeds? Nooooooo problem! Pay attention. Picking a company name... What's in a name? Business wise it could mean everything...if you want to get over. It also has a lot to do with what you want to acquire for free. Let's say you want to start a new business and need all-types of office equipment. You could call yourself "Sal's Pizzeria" but that wouldn't wash too well when you're trying to establish a $100,000 line of credit. Most credit managers will dump the application in the round file and require COD cash. Not the best choice of names. How about something like Tri-Star Industries Intl or RCA Electronics?

Investigation of the Yom Kippur War 1973 Essay -- Papers History Yom K

Investigation of the Yom Kippur War 1973 In this investigation one will find the long term and short term causes of the Yom Kippur war. This was achieved by reading various sources about the war and the events that were prior to the war. Thus for this investigation the research question is called "what were the causes of the Yom Kippur war of 1973." By researching about the war one came across various sources some very reliable and some not so dependable thus the evaluation of sources shows how reliable and valuable the investigation's two main sources are. From each source of the sources one took the liberty of extracting relevant information about the war thus all the events that were related to the war are shown in the summary of evidence section. Finally, the analysis and conclusion part of the investigation came about by taking all the evidence into account and analyzing each cause, and then making an over all conclusion relating to all the causes, analysis, and the whole investigation. SUMMARY OF EVIDENCE: The causes of the Yom Kippur war one can date it back all the way to November 2 1917. This day was the day when the British assured the Jews that in Palestine they would gain a national home which they could call as their own. The British assured the Jews this by issuing the Balfour Declaration (www.mideastweb.org). However, the day Israel gained its own state on May 15 1948 the majority of the Arabs felt insecure and unjust. Thus, the Arabs on the same day declared war on the newly Jewish state of Israel, which in the end the Israelis managed to win; one can say that this is another long term cause of the Yom Ki... ...e a state of their own which they could call home. This mainly due to prevent another holocaust from occurring again, thus the birth place of Judaism was given to the Jews as their own state, Israel was created. However, the Palestinians and the Arab nations surrounding Israel obviously were not pleased with this, thus Nasser's plans of putting aggression policies towards Israel were widely accepted in the region. Even though Nasser had failed over and over to achieve his aim of throwing out the Jewish state in an Arab "ocean" the Middle East. Thus after, Nasser had died his aggressive policies had given Israel a negative impression, thus when Sadat came to power his peaceful solutions were neglected, therefore Sadat's impatience got the best of him and thus he declared war on Israel and started off the Yom Kippur war.

Emily Dickinson and Charles Wright :: essays research papers

Faith and spirituality can be explored in the poetry of the New England poet Emily Dickinson and the Southern poet Charles Wright. Dickinson seeks for inspiration in the Bible, while Charles Wright looks to Dickinson as a source of information, guidance and inspiration. Wright suggest that â€Å"[Dickinson’s] poetry [is] an electron microscope trained on the infinite and the idea of God†¦. Her poems are immense voyages into the unknowable.†(Quarter) Charles Wright whose poetry captures a compilation of influences states that "There are three things, basically, that [he] writes about — language, landscape, and the idea of God." Dickinson and Wright centered their poetry in their belief in God and both share the influence of the Bible. Although, Emily Dickinson physically isolated herself from the world she managed to maintain friendships by communicating through correspondence. Ironically, Dickinson’s poetry was collected and published after her death. Dickinson explores life and death in most of her poems by questioning the existence of God. Dickinson applies common human experiences as images to illustrate the connection from the personal level of the human being, to a universal level of faith and God. This can be seen in Dickinson’s Poem (I, 45). There's something quieter than sleep Within this inner room! It wears a sprig upon its breast— And will not tell its name. Some touch it, and some kiss it— Some chafe its idle hand— It has a simple gravity I do not understand! I would not weep if I were they— How rude in one to sob! Might scare the quiet fairy Back to her native wood! While simple-hearted neighbors Chat of the "Early dead"— We—prone to periphrasis Remark that Birds have fled! Dickinson employs vivid impressions of death in this poem. In the first line, she employs the analogy between sleep and death; sleep is silent but death lives within silence. She uses the word â€Å"it† to help identify something other than human. She declares that â€Å"it†¦.will not tell its name† as thought it refuses to speak and then resents the dead for its stillness and laziness. Then she acknowledges the attraction she has to death by doubting its â€Å"gravity†. In the third stanza, she expresses that she would not cry for the dead because not only is it offensive to the dead but it might panic the soul to return to dust. Christians believe that from the earth we are made and once we die, we return to the dust of the earth.

Mental Models Essay

Mental models are how the mind stores memories and ideas relating to reality. These include opinions, attitudes, prejudices, and approaches to different objects, events, and situations. The manner in which one’s mental models work can limit one’s ability to succeed or improve his or her environment. Sometimes managers’ mental models limit a business because they choose to ignore certain factors. Sometimes people only see what they desire to perceive or deliberately ignore pertinent data (Crook & Wind, 2006). For large, vast, and fast-paced companies like Verizon Wireless, mental models and mindsets, especially in management, do more than shape the company culture; they drive the company to success or failure. The company’s rapid growth and enormous shares of the wireless communications market are evidence of beneficial mental models and positive mindsets, but there are a few weaknesses. Mental Models that Enable Verizon Wireless’ Decision Making Pro cess Verizon Wireless employs several strategies survive and maintain a competitive advantage over its competitors. One of the company’s most influential mental models is that scrutinizing data to gain insights into the most potentially successful business models is key to thriving in a competitive market. Verizon Wireless collects information about various wireless providers, individual clients, and client businesses to glean important insights. This mental model helps the company envision many important improvements, like programs to help grow small businesses into corporate enterprises and where to put the next set of communication towers (Verizon Wireless, 2013). This mental model helps Verizon Wireless to attract customers and maintain its client base (Bouncken & Sungspoo, 2002). Mental models are important in the understanding of various aspects of topics. Verizon wireless uses mental models to strategize and process, hence their success in business. Verizon Wirelessâ⠂¬â„¢ Mental Model of Employment One of the strategies that Verizon Wireless uses is a mental model of attractive employment conditions in the company, as a key to success. The belief is that happy employees help keep customers happy (Dean, 2013). For instance, the company provides support for working mothers and supports them in their endeavors to advance their careers, with offerings like tuition assistance. The mental model emphasizes positive inter-office interrelations, thus building trust within the workplace. Verizon Wireless is listed as one of the best companies for workers to seek employment because of this strong model of positive interrelations with its employees, flexible working schedules, and incentives for employees to further their careers (â€Å"Working Mothers names Verizon Wireless among 100 best firms,† 2008). By appreciating and encouraging individual interests within the company, Verizon Wireless builds a collective mental model of every worker’s success is a company achievement and, vice-versa, the company’s success contributes to the success of every individual (Computerworld, 2011). Mental Models Adopted From Mergers Verizon wireless is regularly involved in mergers with other companies within the communications industry. The mental model that drives this desire to purchase other successful enterprises is a vision of a company that grows ever-stronger by combining the best characteristics of each company into a better Verizon Wireless. In fact, the company started from the merger of two former Bell spin-offs, Bell Atlantic and GTE, along with a British company, Vodafone, deciding to merge Vodafone Wireless and GTE Wireless into a separate entity. The profitability and market leverage provided through the merger made Verizon Wireless a formidable contender, from its very beginning (Verizon Communications, 2013). Later, the company merged with Alltel Wireless to form the nation’s largest and strongest wireless communications provider (Verizon Wireless, 2009). Future mergers with established companies in foreign markets are likely to replicate the company’s successful â€Å"bigger is better† philosophy (FierceBroadbandWireless, 2012). The role of mental models is to aid in reasoning and problem solving, within the organization. Mental models provide imagery that aids in constructing and interpreting of issues (Rickheit, 1999). Mental models are how people’s minds represent reality and guide people’s decision-making processes, along with logical reasoning. The ideals and vision that Verizon Wireless embraces, in terms of latest technology as well merging with others, shapes strategy formulation and implementation. Mental Models that Disable Verizon Wireless’ Decision Making Process Every wireless phone company provides mental models and mindsets that disable the organization’s decision-making progress. One common mindset that hinders wireless providers and angers customers is the notion that a company must put attracting new customers before keeping current subscribers happy. Negative side effects of this mindset include reductions in renewal perks and adding charges without prior notification, as well as the addition of a $30 upgrade fee for each time the client switches to a new device. Already disgruntled customers are further enraged, when they call the customer service lines and discover the company’s unwillingness to compromise over fees and price hikes. Such a negative mindset encourages customers to look elsewhere for service; and, those whom terminate their business with Verizon Wireless are customers that the company must replace by enticing a new client with benefits and discounts. Furthermore, angry customers are not shy to tell their friends and acquaintances about their terrible experiences with Verizon Wireless, thus scaring off potential customers (Delsoft, 2012). Based upon revenues, Verizon Wireless is the most profitable wireless communications carrier in the United States, and poised to be the most profitable in the world. The company provides high-quality service and works endlessly to expand and improve upon its infrastructure. The model is very successful and creates the mindset that an ever-improving network is the only way to succeed. The limitation this mental model poses is that the company does not use the advantages of economies of scale to pass savings onto customers. Most customers would be happier to know that their bills were reduced than to know th at their phones will receive full 3G service on nearly every square foot of the North American continent. Five Forces Influencing Mental Models at Verizon Wireless Similar to other wireless companies, Verizon has five forces to conduct success against its competitors. The five forces illustrate a representation of the five powers to rise in a low economic environment. These forces, also known as Michael Porter’s Five Forces Analysis, consist of buyer power, supplier power, threat of substitute product and services, threats of new entrants, and finally, rivalry of existing competitors such as T-Mobile, AT&T, etc. Following Michael Porter’s analysis may give the company big accomplishment, there is also other forces that impose limitations to the decision-making process. Imposed forces obligate a company to switch gages from success to immediate failure, such as the Customer Relationship Management (CRM) services. A CRM service is a strategy that reduces any negative interactions that the customers pertain. Exploiting is a major discomfort for Verizon Wireless. Verizon Wireless does not like to bring undependable service upon its customers. One of the five forces that impose limitation to administrative decision process is threats of entrants. Threats of new entrants become an imposition because it conveys hard places to expand access of new entrants, creating threat of competition of which wireless company is highe r quality. Creative Intelligence at Verizon Wireless Verizon Wireless has become the leading cellular provider by creating a leadership team that allows integration within the company’s decision making process. Verizon Wireless recognizes that not all good ideas will be created within the company or marketed successfully internally. In the business community, network- related issues such as call quality and performance reliability, particularly among small and midsize companies, are important elements that impact the daily decision-making process. Verizon Wireless adapted a strategy known as crowd sourcing. Crowd sourcing became the decision making process for everything from product development to engaging customers in marketing decisions. As crowd sourcing succeeds and grows in popularity, innovators and businesses are taking more provocative and bold steps to drive innovation. The company’s most creative development for decisions is its open innovation strategy. According to Nine Sigma (2013), open Innovation, also kno wn as external or networked innovation, is focused on uncovering new ideas, reducing risk, increasing speed and leveraging scarce resources. With a better understanding of collaboration, a company is able to lower risk by combining external capabilities with internal innovation resources. Verizon Wireless created a program to collaborate with entrepreneurs and established companies. Through open innovation, Verizon Wireless will be able to form partnerships and generate the creative ideas that will keep them competitive in the future. Conclusion Mental models manipulate the mind to have imagery on several issues. Knowledge is crucial in creating a mental model in a business. When the mental model is one that promotes interrelations such as new ideas through support of advancement and education, new ideas then emerge that enable a company such as Verizon wireless to thrive. The management implements the ideas as the new ideas of the mental picture resonates with their personal goal. Thus, the importance of mental models in Verizon wireless decision making processes as it facilitates fast reasoning towards shared goals. References AT&T. (2013). Investor relations. Retrieved from http://www.att.com Bouncken, R. B., & Sungspoo, P. (2002). Knowledge management in hospitality and tourism. Binghamton, NY: The Haworth Hospitality Press. Computerworld. (2011). 100 best places to work in it 2012: Employer profile NO. 6: Verizon Wireless. Retrieved from http://www.computerworld.com/ Consumerist.com. (2007, October 15). Verizon’s Plan to Share Your Call Data Generates Blog Scrutiny. Consumerist. Retrieved from http://consumerist.com Crook C., Wind J., (2006, March 1). Changing Mental Models in an uncontrollable world. Retrieved from The Financial Times 2012 Dean, J. (2013, April 29). 10 of the Happiest Big Companies to work for. Career Alley. Retrieved from http://www.careeralley.com Delsoft. (2012, October 3). Why does Verizon not value loyal long term customers? Verizon Wireless Services. Retrieved from https://community.verizonwireless.com FierceBroadbandWireless. (2012). Global LTE: Verizon dominates today, but which operators will lead in 2016? Retrieved from http://www.fiercebroadbandwireless.com

Positive views of the International Monetary Fund Essay

Is there any harder job than regulating all of the international markets money? Probably not, the topic being discussed throughout this essay will be the international monetary fund and its involvement in the international market. Much has been said about the I. M. F whether it is positive or negative, neo-Marxist Che Guevara said â€Å"The interests of the IMF represent the big international interests that seem to be established and concentrated in Wall Street. Here he criticizes how the IMF is considered to be run by the United States which occupies a veto power in the decision making at the IMF, this is important to see because it brings up the other side to the IMF, the side that is not so positive and the one that people feel very critical of. Even though people like Che and Stieglitz bring up the negative characteristics of the IMF it is not the only qualities that the fund has. The IMF has also has many positive qualities, this essay will go over these qualities by looking at the IMF’s debt restructuring cases, looking at how the decisions are made in the fund and finally the long term positive effect that the IMF has on promoting democracy. As mentioned before the IMF has gone through much criticism in past years, yet the work they have done on debt relief has done much to boost up their reputation. Cases like Argentina, the Dominican Republic and much more show that the IMF is very capable of improving conditions within a country by debt restructuring programs. In 2005 the IMF started debt reconstruction in Argentina, the process was held back more that they would have liked due to court proceedings in New York. After this delay the IMF was able to do some real work in debt exchange with Argentina. The country participated 76% in the debt exchange and since then they have seen much improvements in their debt structure and debt-profile. In early may the Argentinean authorities regained market access for the first time since the year 2001. Also as a result of rebalancing of the countries credit rating, spreads of Argentina’s external debt fell tremendously from 6000 basis points to 462 basis points. ( ) The Dominican Republic is another country which was aided by the IMF for debt reconstruction, which ended in success. The Dominican Republic started on an economic recovery route by utilizing stand-by arrangements, which are†¦. The plan of this program was to eliminate the financial needs during 2005-06 through a debt exchange process and more, all of which being supported by IDB and the World Bank. The debt exchange ended on May 15th 2005, and had a very high participation rate by the Dominican Republic and this allowed for a large relief of overall cash flow (576 million US) for the government, an increase in the maturity profile of the debt and a decline in over 130 basis points which clearly outperformed the rest of the market ( ). These are great examples to how the IMF can have a positive influence on the economic conditions of a certain country. Apart from these cases there are many people who still oppose the IMF and its ways of intervening, like Joseph Stieglitz wrote in his book that the IMF set the bar so high for debt relief that few qualified (Stieglitz, 227), yet cases like Argentina and the Dominican do prove their potential for aid. Decisions can be crucial to one’s life, drawing the line between failures or success, same goes for the International monetary fund except their decisions could be the difference between saving a country and having that country’s economic system fail. When a person invests into a company or corporation and holds the majority of shares in it, that person can pretty much make all the decisions he wants. It is very similar in the IMF; the country becoming member attains a certain number of votes and then receives more voting power when that country invests more money. This is stated in further detail in the Funds article XII, section 5 â€Å" Each member shall have two hundred fifty vote plus one additional vote for each part of its quota equivalent to one hundred thousand U.  S dollars† (Gold, 18). The two hundred fifty basic votes were meant to give a chance to the countries who have just became members or were not largely developed, it was also intended so that countries were not entirely able to buy their voting power, as do most people perceive the United States did to gain its so-called Veto power. Gold (1972) brings a quote from an unstated source that brings up the argument of why all countries do not have the same amount of voting power. It is said that it would be unwise to have small countries have the same voting power as the larger ones, since it is for sure that there will be more small country members than there are large. Contrary to that point, he says that it would be unfair to give voting power on the solemn basis of how much money they put in. Although the exact figures of recent years are unavailable, the effect of the basic votes were quite visible in the 70’s, where 37 countries of the 137 members of the fund had basic votes that accounted for half or more of their total voting power (Gold, 19). The counter argument this type of voting formula could be that it resembles to much a private corporation, yet evidence shows that it has help the small countries to at least attain a sufficient amount of votes. People are very likely to pre-judge the outcome of a certain event, even without waiting to see what will happen in the end. This can also be the case for views against the IMF, judging its intervention or programs on the basis of the results produced in the first year. A study was done by Nelson and Wallace to see what type of influence the IMF lending plans had on democracy inside the country obtaining the loan. What they found in their study was that the impact of the IMF loans did not have very much effect on democracy within the given country in the time frame of one year, but the impact of IMF lending only took place between three and five years ( Nelson & Wallace, 24-25). Again this hints to the fact that anti-IMF people may be quick to judge the impact that the Fund has on whatever country being helped. Other results from the Nelson and Wallace research was that the impact of the IMF’s lending could vary from one region to another such as in Eastern Europe where one could see a 3. increase in polity[1] score over a period of 5-years and then in East-Asia there was a negative change of 1. 5 in the polity score (Nelson & Wallace, 27-28). Again these results presented shows that the IMF’s implication can have many different levels of influence depending on the region that is being lent the money. One thing is for sure, it is that there are more cases of improved polity 3:1 and having two regions that were not significant results (Nelson & Wallace, 27-28). Yet, anti-IMF people may say that it is unfair that that one country has a negative outcome and the IMF is unfair and bias towards the other countries. In conclusion, the IMF shows many positive characteristics to their involvement in the world. Their positive ranges from helping developing countries to reconstruct and eliminate their debt by means of a debt exchange with the IMF to the IMF having a positive influence on democracy when loaning money to a country. Also, the way that the IMF voting power is distributed shows a fair way to doing it by awarding all members of the fund with a start up amount of basis points to be able to have some power.