Blue Remembered Hills Essay

When I first read the script of Blue Remembered Hills I thought it was quite naturalistic and it was well written from a child’s perspective. The characters were all very believable and it seemed like a fun play to perform. I thought it would be easy to do because the characters are all children and I can still remember how I was at that age. In the performance I played the part of Peter, a young boy of about seven or eight years. He is the bully of the group and he tends to use his strength to get his own way over the others. He is not very intelligent and some of the characters use this to their advantage to get out of situations e.g. in scene two when Peter tries to steal Willie’s apple but Willie convinces him one bite would kill him. To get into our roles of young children, we did various exercises like childhood games and hotseating. I found hotseating particularly helpful because afterwards all of the class give their opinions and constructive criticism so I could improve my character. Playing childhood games helps to put you into the mind of an eight year old. After a few weeks we looked at the subtext of the play. This means you go through the script and look for the true meaning of the words that are spoken. For example if somebody says something sarcastically, you know to say it in a certain tone. Doing this helped with the language and how to speak the words in accent using the correct tone so that the true meaning is given across to the audience. I found the best way to improve voice, movement and gesture was to keep rehearsing it and talk to each other about how it looks and what could be improved. All of the characters wore similar clothing, as they’re all children of the same age living at the same time. For Peter I chose a pair of dirty, grey shorts and a plain dirty white shirt as this was typical for the time. He did not have any props specific to his character. I think that together as a group we worked very well. I found that constructive criticism and feedback from the other people in my group helped me greatly because it tells you what you look like to others and how the character comes across to the audience. We didn’t experience many major problems throughout the project and other problems were easy to solve. Last minute rehearsals were just to polish off the scripts and make sure that all the scenes ran smoothly together. In the run-up to the final performance we would just act out each scene over an over and confirm that we had the play how we wanted it. I was quite pleased with the final performance but despite weeks of learning the lines, I still managed to make a few slip-ups, which I and the other character made up for by improvising. I thought that each person in the group fitted very well into their characters and worked very well together. We all added a bit of our own personality, which made the characters more believable. If I did the play again I might have made it more physical and at a faster pace. I didn’t see any other groups’ performances so I can’t compare ours to anyone else’s. Over the past few weeks I have learned new techniques of character development and I feel my ability to work in a group has improved. I think I need sometimes to put in a bit more effort in the lessons and do every rehearsal as if it were the real thing as I lacked motivation in some lessons. It has prepared me a bit for the written exam because I have been analysing the performance, which is exactly what I have to do for the exam.

Indian Independence Movement and Modern India Essay

I am Chandini C Kurup of class IX B standing here to speak to you on this auspicious occasion of Republic Day As we are celebrating the 64th Republic Day of India, we students have some responsibilities to shoulder, and some duties to plunge ourselves. The contribution of students in the struggle for Indian independence and thereafter in the making of modern India can never be negated. From the prehistoric times to the recent years, students in India have played a significant role in shaping the history, culture and demographics of our beloved motherland. Students are not moved by greed, nor touched by the fanaticism and bigotry between brothers and sisters, in religion or otherwise, nor engulfed by the violence that seems to be a standing libel on the world all around. We students are the most pure, the most energetic. And it is the time for us once more to take the oaths and help the nation march forward. Let us take an oath to explore our country in its history, geography, culture and literature as much as we can. It is a pity that we can name several novelists, artists and musicians of England, France, Germany, Russia and many more foreign countries without much thoughts, but need to reach our notebooks and laptops to name even a few of them from our neighboring states. Let us take an oath to understand the immense power of the Indian culture and tradition that have always been the unity in our rich diversity. India was never a nation before the British rule. Our country was forever decided in numerous political pockets, in fact the very concept of a nation is purely Western, yet the concept of a country united through her culture was always there. Only that culture has been the lifeline of India, despite the number of invasions and aggressions on our motherland. If we forget that culture altogether and rush with closed eyes to imitate the West, the end is near. Let us take an oath to do our duties for the country and the environment. If we do all our rough works in the electronic media, we would save lot of papers and trees to make a difference. We can choose not to accept plastic carry bags and request our friends and relatives to follow us. Once in a week, we can offer free tuition to our needy brothers and sisters. Lots of medicines, old books, and old clothes go waste every year; we can donate them to these organizations as well. Our years old shirts that we hate to put on now will bring smiles to many of our friends in need. Morality is the basis and we must not forget that too. We don’t need to be religious and in fact the maker of modern India, Swami Vivekananda, used to hate the manifold rites and customs that make the gap between religions and the common man. But we need to have faith – faith on God, on the essential goodness of man, on the strength and future of our country, and last but not the least, in ourselves. Our nation is made of none but us, and if we can enlighten ourselves we can enlighten the whole nation. We are the future of India, and the way we make ourselves ready for it will decide the fate of the country in the years to come. All good deeds and attempts are mocked by a class of people we must not be afraid nor ashamed of them. All good deeds are achieved through hardships, and we must toil. But all good deeds bring forth a joy to the core of our heart that none can snatch away, and to our last days of lives, that pleasure is going to be our precious possession for sure. Let us respect our country, our nation, our brave soldiers, our Constitution, our national anthem, and our national flag. As we will follow our ways back to home after this ceremony, we might see paper made tricolor flags torn down from ropes and poles and lying on the street dust like garbage; let us spend a few minutes on our way, today at least, to stop and pick them for a better and respectful disposal. The road ahead is a long one, where we have miles to go. With determination and unity we can move forward. On this special occasion, I urge all of you to show the unity and strength and develop the nation where citizens live with peace and mutual understanding.

PEMEX Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

PEMEX - Coursework Example The company comprises of four subsidiary entities that practices production, exploration, commercialization and transformation activities for natural gas and oil in the local and international markets (Blowfield, 2013; p. 67). The company also conducts refinery of crude oil and supplies petrochemicals on top of conducting business overseas via PMI Comercio Internacional. This paper explores the sustainability of the company in the global business with major focus on environmental sustenance and economic stability. The country has positioned to provide assurance of the distribution of primary energy products and has therefore input to considerable change and growth in Mexico. In order to guarantee that the company would proceed to contribute significantly to the development of the nation, the company created a business plan in 2010 where the strategies were approved. The government aims to transform and recognize the company as an efficient, safe, modern, profitable, sustainable, transparent and modern firm is set forward. Through the organization the government has established a business plan which is the result of an attempt to focus on the fundamental plans that deal with the major aspects integral to describe the course and objectives of the organization. The business plan can be summarized by the diagram below. In satisfying the company’s and government’s objectives the company has recognized four routes of actions with various specific strategies. These include the growth, corporate responsibility, efficiency and management modernization (Lourdes, 2012; p. 3). The society has so much expectations and attitudes towards the organization and its contribution to sustainability. As a major element of achievement, the society expects that the government through the company to transparently comprehend the effect of their activities at the economic, social and ecological

Etruscan - Byzantine Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Etruscan - Byzantine - Essay Example It is also characterized by neighboring columns, superimposed and engaged, serves as an embellishment to the structure. Roman style is also characterized by an elevated high base steps rising to a deep portico which was a strong influence of the Etruscan style of architecture. Hagia Sophia, which is located in Istanbul formerly Constantinople, on the other hand, is one of the best examples of the Byzantine architecture. Although there are a lot of existing styles that concentrated on a religious theme, Byzantine architecture’s strong feature is that the structures built during this time were meant to glorify the church. This style is set apart by great domes, smaller domes and half domes supported with pedentive, huge columns, round arches and abundant use of color, decorative and glass mosaics. Both architectural styles have a distinct characteristic that distinguish it from others. Pantheon has a top heavy appearance and an imposingly large entrance like most temples in this era. Hagia Sophia, however, is somewhat inviting. Although Byzantine also uses columns in their architectural design, the Roman style has more columns that somewhat overlaps each other just by looking at it. Both structures made use of domes, the difference however was that Pantheon has only one while Hagia Sophia has several. Initially, Pantheon was believed to be created as a temple for the gods.

The key principles of human resource management Essay

The key principles of human resource management - Essay Example This essay discusses that there are more similarities between personnel management and human resource management than difference and this is mainly assumed by different number of authors. According to Torington, a personnel management is continues process of growth and evolution where more expertise people are required. In this evolutionary process HRM is adding only a dimension to a multi faceted role and is not assumed as a revolutionary concept. But the concept of HRM should not be undervalued or underestimated. Storey has regarded HRM as different approach and philosophy for the management. HRM provides a new platform for managing personnel. Difference between Personnel management and HRM are mainly comprises of meaning than of substance. Thus the real difference between personnel and HRM is not actually what the concept are but who are defining the concepts. Another important difference between the two approaches is appreciation towards the employees. Personnel management believ es that employees are the key to improve the performance whereas HRM assumes that the employees are essential for success of the organisation. HRM concentrates on strategic fits unlike personnel management; HRM emphasis on individuals whereas personnel emphasis on collectively; Personnel management provides a generalised HR solution and HRM a much more tailored solution; There is an increase need of HR specialist in case of personnel management whereas in HRM senior mangers perform the work of an HR. Personnel is associated with trade union and managing conflict and HRM with performance, capabilities and outcomes. HRM has a strong emphasis over horizontal and vertical integration. It operates at a strategic level and personnel management is more operationally oriented (Banfield & Kay, 2008, p.40). Function of the human resource management in contributing to organisational purposes The functions of HRM have changed over the years and are continuing to change. The function of HR is to enable organisation to achieve the objectives by way of taking initiatives and providing the required guidance as well as support on matters relating to the organisations employees. The main motive is to develop HR strategies and policies in the organisations. HR functions also play an important part in creation of the organisation environment which enables the employees to utilise their capabilities to benefit both the organisation and the individual. The function of HRM also tends to provide advice and services which enables the organisation to get work done through individuals. The sophisticated HRM aims to achieve a strategic integration (Armstrong, 2006, p.54). The HRM concerns most of the managers as well as

Organizational Behaviour Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3250 words

Organizational Behaviour - Essay Example A leader influences others by his qualities, viz. confidence, communicative ability, awareness of his impact on others as well as perceptions about the situation and his subordinates. The effect of a leader's background experiences, his communication ability, self-awareness, confidence, his perceptions of subordinates, the situation and the self are shown below. (Prasad, 2006 264) Almost every aspect of work is influenced by, if not dependent on, leadership. The leader is the chief communicator to people outside the group as well as within the group. The leader's attitude and behaviour affects the motivation of the group. The leader is responsible for seeing that the group's objectives are clearly understood and are accomplished. The planning and control mechanisms are designed or modified by the leader. How the leader behaves influences employees' satisfaction and affects the quality and quantity of output. All leaders have three limiting factors to contend with. Firstly, they are limited by their own ability, by their knowledge, skills, attitudes, weaknesses and inadequacies. Secondly, they are limited by the level of experience, skills, proficiencies and attitudes of their subordinates. Finally, they are limited by their environment. This includes the resources and conditions, which are available to them in their effort to achieve their objectives. All these factors are constantly changing. Leadership is a vital and dynamic function in organizations. The quality of leadership is a key factor in the accomplishment of the organization's objectives. It is generally recognized that certain types of leaders suit certain situations better than others. For example, some leaders perform better in a prosperous, or growth, period, others in an austere or contracting period. LEADERSHIP STYLES Leadership styles are the patterns of behaviour, which a leader adopts in influencing the behaviour of his followers (subordinates) in the organisational context. These patterns emerge in the leader as he begins to respond in the same fashion under similar conditions; he develops habits of actions that become somewhat predictable to those who work with him. There are many dimensions of leadership styles: power dimension where superior uses varying degree of authority; orientation -employee or task-oriented; motivational-where superior affects the behaviour of his subordinates either by giving a reward or by imposing a penalty. All these styles are leader of oriented. Leadership style is the result of leader's philosophy, personality, experience and value system. It also depends upon the types of followers and the organisational atmosphere prevailing in the enterprise. There may be situations and follower-oriented styles. However, such a classification may not be strict because

Questionnaires for dissertation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Questionnaires for dissertation - Essay Example .......................................................................................................................... Why?.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Why?........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ Why?.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Why?........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ Why?.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Explain........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ Why?.................................................................................................................................................................................................

Interview of Michaelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci Essay

Interview of Michaelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci - Essay Example The following interview functions as an effort of gaining a greater perspective on these thoughts and perspectives. Leonardo: After my birth my father took primary custody over me. Still, I remained in contact with my mother. Both of my parents continued to have children after they separated and I ended up with the unique situation of having a total of 17 half sisters and brothers. During my youth growing up with my father I think greatly contributed to my later development. He always had scholarly texts around that I was able to read. You’ll remember that during this period the Internet wasn’t readily available so having access to this information was quite a privilege. Additionally, there were many members of my family that were painters, so I sort of fell into painting from that point (‘MOS’). Michelangelo: After I was born my mother became sick. I was immediately given to a wet nurse from a family of stonecutters. I know it sounds crazy, but I always felt that early influence contributed to my later intellectual disposition. Unfortunately my mother would die when I was very young. Indeed, I sort of had a depressing childhood and became very introspective, focusing on art. I soon developed a skill in this avenue and my father sent me to Francesco Galeota from Urbino, a masterful instructor (‘Michelangelo’). Leonardo: Well, I was always very confident about my work, but I guess the first time I received really great social recognition for my work was with even with one of my own paintings, but my instructor Andrea del Verrochio. Instructor Verrochio allowed me to paint an angel in his work Baptism of Christ. This work would later come to be recognized as a seminal painting (‘MOS’). Michelangelo: For me it was when I was sixteen years old. At this age I produced the Madonna of the Stairs. This work featured Mary, the mother of God, sitting on a

Organizational Environment Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Organizational Environment - Case Study Example The link between innovation and the competitiveness of a business depends on the ability of the business to adapt strategically to the market it is in. Adaptation to a particular market is a dynamic process and can only be achieved as a long-term project and must consider other factors that may be external in nature and may also be affected by previous decisions on strategic positioning in the market. The ability to innovate is one key factor that dictates whether a business will be able to survive in the market and its performance. Therefore, a business must be able to conceptualize an adaptation strategy by having the correct strategy, structure and internal alignment that will position it competitively in the market both through the internal and the external environment (Eunni, Post and Berger 2003). HKM can develop can develop a functional structure as its organizational structure as the company is set to grow into a larger company but is interested in the economies of scale thro ugh the production of large quantities of the products but at a lower cost. This can be achieved by having highly efficient and specific divisions with specialized tasks, in this case the production of designs. Being dependent on the environment or the market to dictate the sale of the designs, HKM must adopt the open system in order to know what is going on in the business market especially concerning the customers, the suppliers and the competitors. The fact that the market seems stable for HKM in that he is assured of constant market for the designs; he can adopt a mechanist management system in the organization structure. In this kind of arrangement, HKM will consider the specialized differentiation of the functional tasks facing the partnership and break them down. He will also have to distinguish the abstract nature of each task that may be pursued with techniques or purposes that are different from those of the business as well as reconcile each level in the hierarchy. This f orm of structure that applies to HKM must also determine the precise definition of the rights and obligations attached to each party and how they transit to responsibilities of a functional position (Burns and Stalker, 1961). Harold and his partners must therefore be aware of the environment they operate in so as to survive as well as to know its domain or field of action. Daft (2010) states that this will be dependent on the products, services and the markets that the business is intending to serve as compared to its business objectives. Assuming that the product and the market that are to be produced by Harold and his new partners are perfectively competitive, the price is one of the most important factors that are to be considered. The price should be set at the market level through the interaction of supply and demand in that all the organizational structures put in place must consider the demand and the supply of the targeted market. Further before increasing the quantities of the goods in the market, the firm must decide how much labor that will be required for the business that will ensure that there is maximization of the profits in line with the objectives of the business (Plantes and Finrock, 2009). Before increasing the quantities of production of the products, Harold must identify and evaluate the competition, their number, size, location, strengths and weaknesses and how the business can overcome the

Childcare studies (Working with Children) Assignment

Childcare studies (Working with Children) - Assignment Example The international desire to improve the quality of childcare and pre-school provisions has contributed a great deal in ensuring that children receive high quality education and childcare as they start their journey of life in educational set-ups (Shaw & Brewer 2012, pg 60). This paper will delve into details of the several provisions needed for childcare, the various types of environments and establishments relating to child development, the skills required as well as the training needed for the numerous childcare roles and working environments. There are various types of childcare and educational provisions. These provisions fall under both formal and informal sectors. These provisions include nursery education, playgroups, child-minders, crà ¨ches, pre-school, care homes, just to mention but a few. Nursery education is aimed at giving additional physical, social, emotional and cognitive support to children when they are outside the home. Nurseries are normally attended by children aged between two and five. These facilities are normally offered free of charge by Local Education Authorities (Dates 2004, pg. 54). However, if offered by private institutions or organizations then are subject to fees. Nursery schools are normally staffed by teachers who are trained. They are normally assisted by nursery nurses as well as other support staff comprising of volunteers, nursery and teaching assistants (Dallimore 2004, pg. 98). Pre-school is another provision offered to children. These facilities are usually attached to primary schools and are meant for children of ages four. Pre-schools are normally staffed by highly trained teachers and support staff. They are charged with the responsibility of preparing children for school (Laming 2003, pg. 43). It is important for children to attend pre-school before joining primary school since it gives them an insight of what to

Education and Recess Essay Example for Free

Education and Recess Essay Since public schools have started recess it has been set in place to allow students time to express their energy, become active and socialize. Although within the past years, most schools have removed recess from their schedules. School administrators argue that recess wastes time, causes problems and is dangerous. But it is actually a good thing for students. In most schools, the average school day is about eight hours long. During the elementary school year especially, students are bursting with energy that causes their minds to wander. Recess is a great way to allow students to wind down and expel some of their pent-up energy. Also during this time it was usually the teacher who went outside with the class. So while the kids are taking a breather the teachers can too. A growing problem in America today is obesity. Many school cafeterias have switched to a healthier menu and schools have removed snack machines, in an attempt to improve students eating habits and weight. Meanwhile, the same school boards are removing recess from their schedules As a result, obesity rates have tripled in the past forty years. School administrators believe that recess is not needed because the students are required to take Physical Education. Although P.E. is physically active it does not give students many options. Students are graded on their performance and participation so P.E. is not much of a relax and recoup time. In school, it is important for students to develop necessary social skills. In class, students are unable to communicate because they are busy doing their work. Recess allows students to develop relationships, experience and deal with confrontations and learn about other people. These skills will be extremely important in almost every job. You may have noticed all of the big time business men or woman, and they got that job by being a good people person. That’s because when they were kids, recess was an every day thing. In conclusion, recess should be a thing student’s experience everyday. It should be something students think back on as adults and think of how it helped them. If schools go on with out recess for too much longer the obesity and people skills of the future could not be good. If I ever become  an important member of the school board you know what my vote for recess is going to be. What’s yours?

New Zealand Film Industry Essay Example for Free

New Zealand Film Industry Essay Why did the New Zealand government offer Warner Brothers incentives to film â€Å"The Hobbit† in New Zealand? Analyse how this will affect the New Zealand film industry and New Zealand society. Warner Brothers, one of Hollywoods most famous studios, was founded in 1923 by four actual brothers: Jack, Sam, Harry Albert Warner. On April 4, 1923, with help from a loan given to Harry Warner by his banker Motley Flint, they formally incorporated as Warner Bros. Pictures, Inc. I believe that production of H0bbit movie is benefit for New Zealand economy and New Zealand Government provide that incentives to Warner Brothers. Warner Brothers is the front of any entertainment industry with its films to television, home entertainment/DVD, and inter-active creativity. New Zealand has a reputation of being in the Top Ten filming locations in the universe. Warner Brothers choose to make the film in New Zealand because they know that New Zealand infrastructure is pleasing and natural. New Zealand is an open economy and it is cost-effectively workable and attractive for large budget international productions. Firstly, it is important to know that what kind of advantage to New Zealand with the Hobbit movie. New Zealand has a both advantages comparative and absolute. Comparative advantage means â€Å"A situation in which a country, individual, company or region can produce a good at a lower opportunity cost than a competitor.† (Gans, King, Stonecash, Mankiw, 2011) And Absolute advantage means â€Å"The ability of a country, individual, company or region to produce a good or service at a lower cost per unit than the cost at which any other entity produces that good or service.† According to new Law New Zealand have low labour cost means lower opportunity cost. And New Zealand has land, resources and pervious knowledge. For this two reason New Zealand have both advantages. Warner Brothers has reached a deal with the New Zealand government to keep The Hobbit in New Zealand. As part of the agreement, the government will â€Å"introduce in parliament legislation sought by Warnerà ¢â‚¬â„¢s that would clarify the employment status of film industry workers.† It is being presumed that the intended effect is to, â€Å"make unionization of the film industry more difficult or impossible. â€Å"Ever since Jackson’s LOTR trilogy put New Zealand on the map, so to speak, the country has benefited greatly from the rise in tourists. Indeed that has been factored into a â€Å"long-term strategic partnership† the country has struck with Warner Brothers which will see joint promotion of New Zealand as a film production and tourism destination. The incentives provided to Warner Brothers committed more New Zealand taxpayer money to the movies. (Cheng, 2010) As well as broadening the criteria for its large-budget incentive program – which will give WB an additionally rebate of up to US$15 million – the NZ government will also provide up to US$10 million for marketing costs. On top of the obvious benefit of keeping The Hobbit on home ground, New Zealand will also host one of the world premieres for one of the films. All this just goes to show just how important The Hobbit is for New Zealand. It has been said that the production will pump U.S. $200 million into NZ’s economy. (Cheng, 2010) It is important to know the reason as to why the incentives were offered to Warner Brothers. It is stated that â€Å"the Key Government thinks that this little country can and should afford to pay these subsidies to a giant foreign corporation.† (Roger, 2010) It was highly noticeable of the government when it cowardly agreed into Warner Brother’s demands for limited and striking subsidies saying they were worth it because New Zealand’s opportunity to grow in the economy was at stake as other countries waited in the line for ‘The Hobbit’ movie. The Government was under so much pressure from the other film businesses as rivalry was intense from the UK, USA, Canada, Australia and many more countries as they all wanted a movie like ‘The Hobbit’. That was the reason the incentive of changing labour laws was undertaken in such an urgency as the government did not want to further deviate expenditure of public money while having to fight back to match the massive tax breaks offered by other countries. Warner Brothers received tax subsidies of $100 million and â€Å"government agreed to give up to $34 million of tax breaks† (Cheng, 2010) through civility of New Zealand’s tax payers. More compromises were approaching as the Government eluded the standard democratic process to move forward with Parliament legislation that undermined the Employment Relations Act, and also benefited the international film company with $25 million. The government flaunted this as triumph for the film industry in New Zealand. The New Zealand government or national party is ideologically placed on the right wing of the spectrum. Right wing means In politics, right-wing describes an outlook or specific position that accepts or supports social hierarchy or social inequality. Social hierarchy and social inequality is viewed by those affiliated with the Right as inevitable, natural, normal, or desirable, whether it arises through traditional social differences or from competition in market economies. It typically accepts or justifies this position on the basis of natural law or tradition. Therefore favors free trade, globalization and open markets. They also want more FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) such as the Warner Brothers Hobbit investment. (rejuvenation) The NZ Film Industry will be affected both positively and negatively. â€Å"A 2008 report found that film and television industry injected $2.5 billion into NZ’s economy† (TVNZ-One news, 2010) The positive thing is that the more contractors get to keep their jobs; New Zealand has been able to build its flexible status again after the boycott scenario with The Hobbit. If the movie was not made in NZ then there would have been long term damage to the NZ Screen production sector and the economy. The negative consequence is that Film industry will be affected by the reductions in rights of NZ workers in Film Production as the Warner Brothers do not want to go through any cases regarding employment regulations after losing a case in the Supreme Court during their previous movie production. Warner Bros. has closed its office in New Zealand. The distribution office shut down at the end of May although Warner Bros. reaffirmed its commitment to business in New Zealand and, they said the work would be outsourced to a local company. The shutdown will raise questions in New Zealand because the Government changed employment law and provided tax breaks to get Warner Brothers to make The Hobbit there. For that The Prime Minister John Key said, â€Å"The Hobbit films have created 3000 jobs. They were crucial to New Zealand for our movie industry; it was a very positive step that the Government took. I’m not sure what has happened in Auckland, but I don’t imagine it’s many jobs.† Warner Bros. have had an office in New Zealand since 1947. (News, 2012) If the Hobbit was move from New Zealand than tourism is decrease and most of societies and their livelihood based on the jobs in tourism sectors are may be close and it’s affected very badly. One society in particular would have been drastically affected and that’s the people in Matamata near Waikato region. This would have been a major hindrance as after the Lord of the Rings movie, that place had been made world famous with its Hobbiton set. Although it’s been seven years since the release of The Lord of the Rings, Matamata and the society persist to bring in benefits after the production of The Lord of the Rings attracting more than 200 000 people each year. So by providing incentives to Warner Brothers government has saved the local societies from being drained out of tourism revenues. Changes to labour law were considered unacceptable and unfair law change. The New law was seen to create a default position, categorizing all film production workers as independent contractors. With my evidence now I know I have clear my doubts about what kinds of incentives are provided to the Warner Brothers. I am used the different sources and it’s quite helpful for increase my knowledge on globalization infusion on our economy, government role in economy, etc. I agree that there is an on-going debate with National party in the Parliament since the Green and Labour party continue to oppose the changes of the Employment laws that accommodate the foreign transnational companies’ demands which affect the tax payers either directly or indirectly in our country. The evidence have however raised a question for me and that is whether the NZ Government that poses a nation-state will be able to keep hold of its decision making powers or whether the power will be soon shifted in the hands of dominant international corporations. Bibliography TVNZ-One news. (2010, october 4). Retrieved from http://tvnz.co.nz/entertainment-news/australia-lobbying-hobbit-3816847/video : http://tvnz.co.nz/entertainment-news/australia-lobbying-hobbit-3816847/video Cheng, D. (2010, oct 27). Hobbit to stay in NZ. Retrieved from http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1objectid=10683486 Gans, J., King, S., Stonecash, R., Mankiw, G. (2011). Interdependence and gains form trade. In Globalisation and Business Enterprise (pp. 266-267). Auckland: Custom for AUT University, Faculty of Business and Law. News, O. (2012, June 19). Warner Brothers shuts down NZ office. Retrieved from http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/warner-brothers-shuts-down-nz-office-4937753/video rejuvenation, M. (n.d.). Ideology The New Zealand Legion. Retrieved from http://www.nzhistory.net.nz/politics/the-new-zealand-legion/ideology Roger. (2010). Retrieved from Roger Award Winner. for the worst Transnational Corporation operating in Aotraroal?New Zealand : http://canter bury.cyberplace.org.nz/community/CAFCA/publications/Roger/Roger2

Importance of Infrastructure Investment in the UK

Importance of Infrastructure Investment in the UK Acknowledgements In 1999, I completed the 1st year of the full-time Quantity Surveying course at Glasgow Caledonian University before moving to America in 2001. After a five-year stay, I returned to Glasgow in September 2006 and re-enrolled in the Part-time Quantity Surveying course. Ten years on from the first experience of the QS course, it gives me great pleasure and pride to be submitting one of the last pieces of work in the honours year. It has been an amazing and unexpected journey. I would not be in this position if it were not for the incredible levels of support and encouragement shown by so many and would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge some of these people. First, I would like to thank Raymond McCafferty Michael Heggarty of Cruden Building Renewals for employing me and giving me this opportunity. Their continued support and encouragement throughout this process has given me the focus and drive to continually improve my work. My colleagues at Cruden also deserve a special mention for their support during the dissertation and without the laughs during the day; this process would have been so much more difficult. Thanks guys!!! I would also like to thank Halbert Mills at Glasgow Caledonian University for accepting me back into the course and believing that I had the potential to get to this stage. During the course of this dissertation, I had some challenging times when I felt like I did not know how to develop my chosen topic. I would like to give my sincere thanks to my supervisor, Dr. John Lowe, for his inspirational input when I had these difficulties. Unfortunately, I cannot name everyone but I want to thank all my friends and family who without their support I would never have completed this piece of work. Mum, Dad, Gran, thank you so much for everything. Finally, the love and support shown by my Wife, Brooke, during this process has been a major source of inspiration. We will both be glad when the late night studying and completing of projects is finally over. Peter McLellan 1. Chapter 1 Introduction 1.1 Rationale for the Study Infrastructure forms the economic backbone of the UK. It is the fabric that defines us as a modern industrialised nation. The standard and resilience of infrastructure in the UK has a direct relationship to the growth and competitiveness of our economy. (Skinner, 2010) For the UK to retain its competitive edge, a longer-term view of investment in infrastructure must lead policy making. (Stewart, 2009) This dissertation offers an opportunity to explore and research a highly topical issue. The United Kingdom finds itself still in the midst of one of the worst economic downturns in recent memory and in a period of fiscal consolidation. As a result of this depressed economic situation, difficult decisions have had to be made by all sectors within the UK to work together to drive the country out of the recession. The recent edition of the Economic and fiscal Strategy Report and Financial Statement and budget by the Chancellor of the Exchequer, highlights the importance of implementing measures that will promote sustainable growth. Despite modest growths to GDP of 0.4 per cent in the final quarter in 2009 (NSO, 2010), the general consensus is that the United Kingdom is in the early stages of recovery. The 2010 budget, called Securing the recovery, outlines ways in which it aims to support this vision. One of these policies, is to invest in infrastructure, including additional funding for transport and local roads and creating a Green Investment bank. (UK Budget, 2010) Also, the Eddington Report, published on 1 Dec 2006, was a study jointly commissioned by the Secretary of State for Transport and the Chancellor of the Exchequer. Its role was to analyse the long-term relationships, within the boundaries of the Governments wider commitment to sustainable development, between transport and the UKs growth, stability and economic productivity. The findings of this study will be discussed and compared to the investment required to meet the future demands of the UK. Furthermore, in a recent study carried out by the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), it revealed that inadequate energy, transport, and communications infrastructure continues to reduce the opportunity for UK businesses to grow. It also outlines that during this period when businesses play a vital role in the recovery of the economy, productivity is being affected as a result of lack of capacity, thus restricting the UKs economic potential. (BCC survey, 2010) In response to the survey carried out in 2010, David Frost, the Director general of the BCC stated the following: A countrys infrastructure is crucial to the success of its businesses. In the current environment of economic uncertainty and public spending constraints, our energy, digital, and transport networks must be up to the job if business is to deliver growth and create employment. The intriguing situation that the UK Government now face is deciding the best way to stimulate economic growth without increasing the deficit. One of the issues with increasing deficits is the Government will have to borrow to service the debt. As a result of the world-banking crisis over the last few years, there is reluctance to increase the UK debt further and therefore this might have an impact on infrastructure investment in this country. This dissertation provides an opportunity to research the level of infrastructure required in the UK and review the part it plays to the long-term sustainable growth of the UK economy. Furthermore, in doing so, the author intends to see if further investment in Infrastructure works is viable in the current economic climate. 1.2 Aim The aim of this dissertation is to assess the importance of infrastructure investment in the United Kingdom and how this impacts on the long-term sustainable growth of the UK Economy given the current economic constraints. 1.3 Objectives To review Fiscal and Monetary policy theories available to the UK Government. To review the current and future demands for infrastructure works in the UK. To understand the level of importance of infrastructure work investment to the UK economy. To understand the roles, responsibilities and options available to public and private bodies in raising capital to invest in infrastructure works in the UK. To highlight the economic and social benefits gained as a result of increased investment in chosen infrastructure sectors by utilising hypothetical cost model projections. 1.4 Outline Methodology of the Research 1.5 Dissertation Contents Chapter 2 Provides an extensive Literature review on the topic area. The author will provide a general overview of economic theory, introduction to infrastructure, and a review of the relevant studies published worldwide that reveal intellectual thoughts on infrastructure investment impact on the economy. This will be carried out in the way of both descriptive and an analytical approach to all the appropriate literature sourced to aid in this dissertation. Naoum (2007) states It is descriptive in that it describes the work of previous writers and it is analytical in that it critically analyses the contribution of others with a view of identifying similarities and contradictions made by previous writers. According to Naoum (2007), the literature review will serve two purposes. First, it allows for gathering of information to allow development of issues and themes within the chosen topic that ultimately shape the research design. Second, the literature review will help form the basis of the research design by analysing previous research designs. Chapter 3 Chapter 3 introduces the reader to the numerous research techniques available to the author and will highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each and merits of each approach, before indicating the chosen methods of quantitative analysis technique Chapter 3 examines the various research techniques that were available to the author and describes the strengths and weaknesses of each of the approaches in respect to the available data. In particular this chapter presents the reasoning behind the authors decision to adopt the quantitative analysis technique and explains how this approach was applied. This chapter also describes the source of the data and highlights any potential bias or limitations that the author experienced within the analysis. Furthermore this chapter explicitly explains the process for selecting and categorising the appropriate data prior to analysis in a consistent manner. John Hannah paragraph Chapter 4 Chapter 4 builds upon the process described in the previous chapter and examines the primary source of data to assess what trends are evident with each of the particular categories. This section goes on to expand upon the original quantitative analysis and examine a series of quantitative case studies to assess the extent of early warning events and compensation events that occurred on completed projects. John Hannah paragraph Chapter 5 In conclusion, chapter 5 summarises the findings of this research and consider if the original aim and objectives have been achieved. Finally, this chapter discusses the authors findings and proposes a list of recommendations for future studies. John Hannah paragraph 2. Chapter Literature Review 2.1 Introduction The purpose of research is to make a contribution, however small, towards understanding the phenomenon being studied and ultimately towards the total body of knowledge (Parahoo, 2006) The intended purpose of the following literature review is to provide a general background to the chosen topic that will aid in the understanding of the following areas: How the UK Economy functions and what factors drive it. Description analysis of previous research on the impact of infrastructure investment on the economy. The role the construction industry plays in the UK Economy. The information presented within the literature review will enhance the readers knowledge of the topic with a view of providing clarity and understanding on the findings presented in chapter 4. Economic Theories There are conflicts of opinion on economic theory. For instance, monetarists argue that rises in the money supply cause inflation whereas Keynesians argue that it is changes in inflation which cause changes in the money supply (Stanlake Grant, 1995) Keynesian Economics John Maynard Keynes was a British economist whose ideas have been a central influence on modern macroeconomics, both in theory and practice. He advocated interventionist government policy, by which governments would use fiscal and monetary measures to mitigate the adverse effects of business cycles, economic recessions, and depressions. His ideas are the basis for the school of thought known as Keynesian economics. Keynes solution to poor economic state is to introduce impetus spending or as the US President Franklin Roosevelt described, prime the pump. Keynes argues that the government should step in to increase spending, either by increasing the money supply or by actually buying things on the market itself. A supporter of Keynesian economics believes it is the governments job to smooth out the bumps in business cycles. Intervention would come in the form of government spending and tax breaks in order to stimulate the economy, and government spending cuts and tax hikes in good times, in order to curb inflation. Alternative Economic Theories Since Keynesian economics advocates for the public sector to step in to assist the economy generally, it is a significant departure from popular economic thought, which preceded it â‚ ¬Ã¢â‚¬  laissez-fair capitalism. Laissez-fair capitalism supported the exclusion of the public sector in the market. A number of laissez faire consequences are drawn from Says law. Say also advocated public works to remedy unemployment. Say argued against claims that business was suffering because people did not have enough money and more money should be printed. Say argued that the power to purchase could be increased only by more production and is also best known for coining the phrase supply creates its own demand (Curwen, 1997) James Mill used Says Law against those who sought to give economy a boost via unproductive consumption. Consumption destroys wealth, in contrast to production which is the source of economic growth. The demand for the product determines the price of the product, but not if it will be consumed. Alternatively, Keynes is an advocate of trying to stimulate consumption by government intervention. Views on Economic thoeries Cutting support now, as some are demanding, would run the real risk of choking off the recovery even before it started, and prolonging the global downturn. (Darling, 2009) If consumers, markets and businesses get the message that government wants to carry on spending and isnt serious about dealing with the deficit, they will start to conclude that the UK is no longer a safe place to invest in, spend in or build a business in, (Cameron, 2009) Importance of Construction industry to UK Economy A recent survey commissed by the UK Contractors Group and carried out by LEK Consulting to demonstrate the impacts of the Construction industry on the UK Economy was distributed September 2009. The main aim of this report was to specifically highlight the benefits of investing in construction. The report covered 3 main areas: Contribution of the construction industry at national and regional level. Key contribution that construction makes to national employent levels. The role that the construction industry plays in the broader economic and social objectives. The reports contention is that the construction industry is vital to the overall UK economy while still being in a recession as it provides the following: Construction is a major contributor to the UK DGP. Construction sector employs circa  £3m people throughout 300,000 firms. Construction is also an important driver for other sectors, without which there would be a loss of domestic production capacity and skills. The report, Construction in the UK economy: The Benefits of Investment, shows that construction is the best sector for stimulating employment. It also shows that every  £1 spent on construction leads to an increase in GDP of  £2.84, as the spending not only creates construction output worth  £1, but also stimulates growth elsewhere in the economy worth  £1.84. With the Chancellors Pre-Budget Report looming, the CBI is continuing to press the case for protecting capital spending by government. (John Cridland, CBI Deputy-Director General, 2009) A strong economy needs fit-for-purpose schools and hospitals, and it will be the construction industry that builds the new transport and energy infrastructure needed to shift to a low-carbon economy. (John Cridland, CBI Deputy-Director General, 2009) Introduction to Infrastructure Works Infrastructure investment impact: Previous Research Over the last 30 years there have been various economic models developed to help in the research of the impact of infrastructure investment on the economy. The in-depth empirical studies have mainly utilised macro-economic level data, which includes cross-state and cross-country data. (Straub, 2007) edinburgh paper According to the studies carried out by Aschauer (1989) he states that when analysing the importance of public investment to the productivity improvement and economic growth, added weight must be attributed to the public investment decisions made by the Government. Furthermore, the study indicates increased productivity and growth in the economy by investing in areas such as highways, sewers, streets, and water systems. To ascertain these findings, Aschauer took the average annual growth rates of total factor productivity and the non-military public capital stock in America over the period 1950-1985; Aschauers data indicated a close relationship between level of investment in non-military infrastructure and productivity. Put in Tables from study Further research in the United States carried out by Munnell (1990) analysed the impact of the stock of public capital on economic activity at the regional and state levels. In conclusion, Munnell found that the US states that had invested in infrastructure had greater output, increased levels of private investment, and high levels of employment growth. The study highlighted above, Aschuer (1989) estimated an elasticity of output with respect to public infrastructure capital in the United States during 1950-1985 of between 0.38 and 0.56. These results have been shown to be econometrically suspect and subsequent work suggests the elasticity is much smaller. The average elasticity across OECD countries for the period 1960-2001 has recently been estimated to be 0.2 (Kanps, 2004). Aschauers paper has, however, proved very fruitful in terms of subsequent research, which it stimulated. (Crafts Leunig, 2005) A number of empirical studies have looked at the relationship between all public infrastructure investment and GDP growth. On average these studies seem to indicate a positive elasticity of output to public capital of around 0.20. Put another way, a ten per cent increase in public capital stock increases GDP by around 2 per cent. (Eddington report 2006) The eddington report suggest that there are limitations to these empirical studies and the results should be viewed with caution. OECD (2003) argues that early empirical work on the link between infrastructure investment and economic performance overstated the magnitude of the impact on GDP and productivity growth (The sources of economic growth in OECD countries, OECD, 2003) In particular, studies that focus on public investment in capital and infrastructure in a broad sense, rather than on transport specifically, do not really distinguish between types of investment in terms of new build, upgrade, maintenance etc although some do make specific conclusions about the value of transport infrastructure investment. Later studies using more complex modelling suggest a positive, albeit weaker relationships between infrastructure and GDP. These include: Kocherlakota and Yi (1997), Demetiades and mamuneas (2002), OFallon (2003), and Nijkamp and Poot (2004). (see figure 1.5 eddington report 2006) In 1993, Easterly and Robero carried out further research to expand on the work in this field. Called Fiscal Policy and Economic Growth: An Empirical Investigation, it details several conclusions that support the findings expressed by Aschauers research in 1989. It tackled areas such as the rate of growth and the level of development by employing historical data and recent cross-section data. The main findings outlined that there is a strong relationship between a countries fiscal structure and the development level and that investment levels in communication and transport is consistently correlated with growth. This therefore indicates that infrastructures are important in the economic prosperity of a nation (Easterly, Robelo 1993). Put in reference Eisner (1991) highlighted that public infrastructures not only serve as an intermediate good in physical goods production, they can also be final consumption goods. For example, water and sewage systems benefit environment, better transportation saves time spent on travelling, public parks give people pleasure, etc. Canning, Fay, and Perotti (1994) found substantial effects of physical infrastructure on economic growth based on the international data set. The strategy for national infrastructure also states, The majority of empirical research indicates that there is positive relationship between infrastructure and economic growth (strategy for national infrastructure, 2010). Introduction to Infrastructure What is Infrastructure? Set-up in December 2009 to help meet the infrastructure requirements in the UK for the next 10-20 years, Infrastructure UK defines Infrastructure as key economic sectors which include: Water, Waste, Energy, Transport and communications (strategy for national infrastructure, 2010). Infrastructure networks enable people, goods, energy, information, water, and waste to move efficiently around the UK and, in some cases, across its borders. The extent, capacity and quality of these networks has a direct bearing on the economy of the UK, the environment and the quality of life of everyone who lives in or visits the UK. Infrastructure Studies in the United Kingdom Extensive research carried out in the United Kingdom has indicated the level of infrastructure required for each sector and this can be cross-referenced with studies highlighted in the previous section. For example, the findings from the research carried out by Eisner, 1991 and Easterly, Robero 1993 indicated a relationship between transportation and its impact on the growth of the economy. The Eddington report was published on the 1st December 2006 and was carried out by Sir Rod Eddington under the instruction of the UK Government. The report is an examination of the impact transportation decisions will have on the UK environment and economy. The report analyses the current global economic demands and how our current transportation infrastructure must meet the demands of the 21st century. It states that with rising population and resultant greater demands on the country, higher levels of congestion and issue with reliability will have adverse effects on the economy if the correct infrastructure is not in place. It contends that by not having the required infrastructure in place it costs businesses more money while also effecting peoples social environment (Eddington Report, 2006). As well as utilising the Eisner, Easterly and Robero findings, the Eddington Report drew on research carried out in more recent times. The studies used in the development of the Eddington Report comprised: The historical significance of Transport for Economic growth and Productivity (Crafts Leunig, 2005), Step change transport improvements (Mann, 2006), and transport and labour market strategies (Gibbons Machin, 2006) Assessing transports contribution to the economy Transport can impact on the performance of the economy in a number of different ways: Transports impact on GDP Transport can impact on the economy and will ultimately impact on overall output. Gross domestic product (GDP) is currently the best measure of the size of the economy as it measures the total value of goods and services provided. Transport can have an impact on economic output (GDP) thorugh two channels: Firstly, transport can affect GDP though a number of inputs that are used, for example transport may increase employment either by allowing greater access to labour or stimulating the creation of new firms, which can increase the number of goods and services produced and lead to an increase in GDP. Secondly, transport can improve the efficiency with which firms use inputs, in other words transport can have an impact on productivity. For instance, a well functioning transport network can raise productivity by redusing journey times. Transport investment can impact on the drivers of productivity by encouraging prictae investment through raising its profitability; facilitating labour mobility and thereby increasing the returns in investment skills; and enabling effective competition even when economic activity is geographically dispersed. Identifying the impact of transport on productivity is important because improving productivity is a key to determinant of long-term growth and living standards. These effects can either have a one -off effect on the level of productivity or a sustained impact on the growth rate of productivity. Transport can impact on the growth rate of productivity by stimulating innovation through its impact on agglomeration economies, trade and foreign direct investment. In practice these dynamics are very difficult to measure, but are nevertheless extremely valuable, as they determine how quickly the economy grows and therefore the rate of growth in GDP. Transports role in supporting quality of life Critically though, GDP measures alone fail to capture the impacts of transport on the environment or its contribution to the wider well being of society. Transports impact on the environment, for example through carbon and other emissions, can increasingly lead to unsustainable growth, as well as impacting on peoples quality of life. Transport improvements that free up wasted travel time allow people to spend more time with friends and family, and enjoy more leisure activities. An economic welfare measurement would seek to measure such broader impacts of transport on society and the environment rather than just a pure GDP measure. These benefits to general well being are known as economic welfare, or welfare. The use of existing transport networks: What benefits do provide Erenburg (1994) finds that policy measures that make more efficient use of existing transport infrastructure through pricing mechanisms or other traffic management solutions can have a significant impact on growth (linking public capital to economic performance, Erenburg, 1994) Hulten and Schwab (1996) estimate that a 1 per cent increase in infrastructure effectiveness would have an impact on growth seven times larger than a 1 per cent increase in the rate of public infrastructure investment. (the public capital hypothesis: The case of Germany, Hulten and Schwab, 1996) OECD/ECMT (2001) paper on the benefits of transport concludes that wider economic benefits may be achieved more efficiently by introducing prices which correspond more closely to costs, or by reallocating existing infrastructure more efficiently between users, or by adopting other transport policies. (Assessing the benefits of transport, European Conference of Ministers of transport, OECD, 2001) Victoria transport policy institute (2003) argues that investment in alternative modes of transport and in management strategies to encourage more efficient use of existing road capacity tends to provide greater economic benefit than expanding existing highways to reduce congestion. The study also argues that the benefits of transport improvements are heavily dependant on local circumstances, in that they will only increase economic development where inadequate transport is a significant constraint on economic activity. EVIDENCE OF CONDITIONS NECESSARY FOR TRANSPORT TO IMPACT ON THE PERFORMANCE OF THE ECONOMY Caning and Fay (1993) assert that infrastructure should not be seen as a factor of production but as a condition for high growth. Kessides (1993) notes that infrastructure does not create economic potential; it only develops such potential where appropriate conditions exist, i.e. other inputs such as labour and capital are available to drive output growth. Indeed, lynde and Richmond (1993), Trinder (2002), and OFallon (2003) assert that public and private capital are complements; that physical infrastructure requires the existence of available productive private capital in order to realise economic growth potential, and that infrastructure investment can boost the productivity of such private capital. Infrastructure investment may also feed through to increased labour productivity. Canning and pedroni (1999), banister and berechman (2000), Trinder (2002) and OFallon (2003) highlight other important underlying conditions that will influence the impact of transport investment on the economy (SEE REFERENCES FIGURE 1.7 EDDINGTON REPORT) In summary, these include: Economic conditions, a stable macroeconomic policy climate, local market circumstances, agglomeration, and labour market conditions Investment conditions; available funds, timing and structure of investment, type of infrastructure investment, location of investment in terms of network structure and political and institutional conditions, decision making, planning, sources, and methods of finance, level of investment, supporting legal and organisational policies and processes, and method and governance of infrastructure delivery and provision. Funding and delivery mechanisms for UK national infrastructure The National Infrastructure is funded and delivered in a number of ways: Commercially driven, user-paid infrastructure e.g. unregulated airport and ports where it is for the developer to decide what and when infrastructure is built. Any developments is then paid for by consumers (but prices are not regulated because competition exists) Commercially driven, user paid but price-regulated infrastructure with a stronger role for Government. Regulated airports are an example. Government supports investment in additional capacity but this is a commercial decision for airport operator (and where prices are regulated to protect from monopoly power). The energy sector also largely follows this model but prices are set by the market or thorough Government intervention. Price regulated businesses where independent regulators play a stronger role in determining the level and nature of investment. For example, water, where the regulator has an input into the nature of the investment programme but infrastructure investment in funded by users. Price regulated business that is funded by the taxpayer and users e.g. Network Rail. This is a model where the business is funded both by users and taxpayers where the DfT have a central role in setting out the outputs it wants from the railways and the level of funding to achieve that. The regulator sets the efficiency targets and prices for the company. Publicly decided and publicly funded infrastructure e.g. roads. Government decides where they should go, when they should be built and pays for them. This may include some provate finance but ultimately government rather than users pay. Clearly Government enjoys much greater control over infrastructure, but only a small part of the overall picture. Infrastructure essential for supporting economic activity and growth Many key investment projects rely on private finance either as direct investment or through mechanisms such as PPPs. In the current economic climate the Uk faces stiff competition in securing investment from private investors and from within Government budgets. In this environment, there needs to be a clear vision from Government about the future and needs for infrastructure. This will be essential to persuade the provate sector to invest in the national infrastructure and, in particular, provaste sector investors need long-term certainty in order to judge whether to commit major funds. Chapter 3 This chapter gives a brief description of the methods used for collecting independent data and why they are relevant to the research objectives. Research Strategy Quantitative Quantitative research is objective in nature. It is defined as an inquiry into a social or human problem, based on testing a hypothesis or a theory composed of variables, measured with numbers, and analysed with statistical procedures, in order to determine whether the hypothesis or the theory hold true (Cresswell, 1994). This statement is expanded on further by Bouma and Atkinson (1995), who state Quantitative data is, therefore, not abstract, they are hard and reliable; they are measurements of tangible, countable,

Star Trek :: Science Fiction Media Television Essays

Star Trek When most people hear William Shatner split the infamous infinitive: â€Å"to boldly go†¦,† they conjure a mental image of middle-aged men, donning tight Starfleet uniforms, perusing immense Trekkie conventions; they picture these fans buying things like hand-phaser television remotes and costumes for their pets and discussing the recent Klingon translation of Hamlet. Few people, however, take the time to investigate the phenomenon that could spawn such fandom. The truth: for 30 years Star Trek has delighted audiences around the world with over 600 television episodes, hundreds of books, ten full length movies (to date), dozens of games and computer software applications, and an assortment of merchandise. The television franchise, winner of several Emmy Awards, has at times been the highest rated show on television. It is no surprise that among the thousands inspired by show, the International Astronomical Union and those responsible for the first space shuttle stand apart; the Union named a star â€Å"Roddenberry† after the show’s creator and the shuttle bore the designation of its legendary star ship: Enterprise. Truly, Star Trek has captured the hearts and imaginations of the people, yet most people dismiss the franchise as another cheesy science fiction melodrama. Aside from the shows’ obvious allures--the exciting, suspenseful, and complex plots and beautifully rendered characters—the weekly interstellar adventures provide a unique forum for literary exploration. Through the creation of one possible future, Gene Roddenberry forwards the most noble quality of his secular humanist philosophy: its notion of the inherent capacity of humanity to mold its future as one as glorious as Roddenberry’s fictional one. The shows’ investigation of gender and race relations, intricate metaphysical themes, and skillful literary allusions, Roddenberry nurtured his show into the ongoing masterpiece it is now. As its significance has evolved from literary to cultural, Star Trek has come to embody the best parts of its creator and his philosophy: the embrace of all forms of di versity and its implications, the necessity for philosophical inquiry in all parts of life, and the beauty of humanity and the art which represents it. Star Trek, when it aired in the 1960's, presented the public with a revolutionary conception of science fiction; for the first time, science fiction forwarded a positive message. Replacing the scenes of science gone awry found in Shelley’s Frankenstein or the terrifying imagery of alien conquest in Wells’ War of the Worlds were scenes of peace and comfort.

Cloning - Well, Split My Embryo! :: Cloning Argumentative Persuasive Argument

Cloning – Well, Split My Embryo! Genetic engineering, altering the inherited characteristics of an organism in a predetermined way, by introducing into it a piece of the genetic material of another organism. Genetic engineering offers the hope of cures for many inherited diseases, once the problem of low efficiencies of effective transfer of genetic material is overcome. Another development has been the refinement of the technique called cloning, which produces large numbers of genetically identical individuals by transplanting whole cell nuclei. With other techniques scientists can isolate sections of DNA representing single genes, determine their nucleotide sequences, and reproduce them in the laboratory. This offers the possibility of creating entirely new genes with commercially or medically desirable properties. While the potential benefits of genetic engineering are considerable, so may be the potential dangers. For example, the introduction of cancer-causing genes into a common infectious organism, such as the influenza virus, could be hazardous. We have come to believe that all human beings are equal; but even more firmly, we are taught to believe each one of us is unique. Is that idea undercut by cloning? That is, if you can deliberately make any number of copies of an individual, is each one special? How special can clones feel, knowing they were replicated like smile buttons. "We aren't just our genes, we're a whole collection of our experiences," says Albert Jonsen. But the idea, he adds, raises a host of issues, "from the fantastic to the profound." When anesthesia was discovered in the 19th century, there was a speculation that it would rob humans of the transforming experience of suffering. When three decades ago, James Watson and Francis Crick unraveled the genetic code, popular discussion turned not to the new hope for vanquishing disease but to the specter of genetically engineered races of supermen and worker drones. Later, the arrival of organ transplants set people brooding about a world of clanking Frankensteins, welded together made from used parts. Already there are thousands of frozen embryos sitting in liquid nitrogen storage around the country. "Suppose somebody wanted to advertise cloned embryos by showing pictures of already born children like a product," says Prof. Ruth Macklin, of New York's Albert Einstein College of medicine, who specializes in human reproduction. Splitting an embryo mat seem a great technological leap, but in a world where embryos are already created in test tubes, it's a baby step. The current challenge in reproductive medicine is not to produce more embryos but to identify healthy ones and get them to grow in the womb. Using genetic tests, doctors can now screen embryonic cells for hereditary diseases.