Teenagers Essays - Teenager, Teen, Adolescence, Teen Dramas

Teenagers The teenager is a creature far different from that of any other. These strange beings are classified into the species of the homo sapiens ranging from thirteen to eighteen years of age. Through the years, it seems that a teenager has grown more to be a separate class in itself rather than a certain time period in life. Although teenagers are really almost a separate sub- species of the human race, none of them are really quite the same. The teenager may be divided into three separate categories ranging from the radical, moderate, and conservative. The "radical" teenager may be best described as one going to all extremes to try and prove something that nobody else can really understand. Punks, stoners, new- wavers, skaters, surfers, and other similar people fall into this category. The "moderate" sub-species of the teenager may best be described as the classic teenager, or really a teenager who epitomizes most of the qualities of a "normal" teenager. This category comprises the widest range of people and could definitely be sub-divided within itself. This particular category of teenager is slightly vague as it can range from teenagers such as "jocks" to "brains". The last of these categories, the "conservative" teenager describes the class of teenagers who follow the rules and teachings of the adult world without a complaint or rejection. One will most likely find a "conservative" teen in the front of the classroom trying to get as close to the teacher's desk as possible. One will find that this person is usually quite timid and quiet the majority of the time. The description of any of these abstract creatures is quite difficult because of the vast difference in each one's features. These beings may range from 3 feet in height up to around 7 feet. They can be either tall, fat, thin, short, ugly, attractive, intelligent, slow, fast, responsible, irresponsable or a variety of several more features humanly possible. The "radical" and "moderate" teenagers are usually quite unpredictable and can usually never be trusted. The vast majority of teenagers begin to actually think and reason for the first time in their life and begin to have contrasting beliefs from what they have been taught by their elders for 13 to 18 years. Before hitting the teenage years, most every person accepted just about everything taught by their parents as they had no reason not to believe in their parents, and also knew no better. As these teens begin to think, they find logic in new and different beliefs and find many old beliefs obsolete. Teens could be a major advantage to the human race if it were not for their tragic flaw in which they think that they have had so much experience in life that they are ready to handle it all and take on the world with their "vast knowledge of life". Although teens are far from perfect, they are still not treated to the best of the older generation's ability. The average teenager is "abused" by their elders. Teens are forced to do miscellaneous odd jobs not respectable to the human race. One may find a teenager doing such degradable chores ranging from taking out the garbage, doing the dishes, to sacking groceries at the local grocery store. Although for the most part teenagers are mistreated, being a teenager has its definite advantages. For in being a teenager, not much is mentally expected of you, for the elder generation has accepted the fact of the difference between them and the teen. As the elder generation was also forced to go through this demanding time in life, they realize how "difficult" it is, thus a teenager can practically get away with "murder". As the teenager can never fully be described because of their wide variety of qualities both mentally and physically, many people struggle to find out exactly why teenagers act as they do. As one may see, the differences of the teenager are quite obvious and contrasting to that of any other period in life.

The Poor Performance of the Employees and Organization

The Poor Performance of the Employees and Organization The Executive summary The CEO of the organization asked me to submit a report with recommendations on how my department could solve a number of problems within the organization.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on The Poor Performance of the Employees and Organization specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The objective of this report, therefore, is to articulate the problems affecting the performance of the organization and devise ways of solving them in order to get the organization back on performance excellence. My team employed a number of methods in the study. We used observation methods, camera surveillance, interviews and discussion. We identified the following problems: increased customer complaints, poor data entry and record keeping, generational groupings among the Baby Boomers, generation Y and X, dissatisfaction among the employees, stress among the employees, poor communication in the organization, high attriti on rates in generation Y and X and a general lack of motivation among the employees. After a careful study of the origin of these problems, we decided on a few changes that, if implemented, would remedy the situation in the organization. The high rate of bureaucracy in the organization needs to be scrapped and replaced with a more liberal model which gives the employees and customers a priority over the organization. The rigid system of operation will also be neutralized with a more flexible approach than the existing one. Communication within the organization also needs to be improved, with the employees being involved in the decision making process. Communication among the employees will also be encouraged in order to avoid the existing stereotypes and suspicion. Motivation strategies will be instituted, with more concern given to employee needs and satisfaction. Non-cash incentives will be issued as rewards for good performance to employees and all employees will be treated fairl y. Introduction Background: Our organization has been experiencing problems among the employees for some time now. This seems to have adversely affected its overall performance. This is reflected by the feedback we receive form our customers and the government. The employees have demarcated themselves into generational groups, each of which acts with suspicion of the other. This has bred a culture of hatred among the senior, middle and young employees, thus, the lack of effectiveness in the organization’s performance. The organization is highly bureaucratic and employees operate under rigid rules and procedures. This system breeds a system of controls and hierarchy which is detrimental to effective execution of tasks within the organization.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More These have led to lack of motivation among the employees, almost grounding the organi zation’s performance (Barrows and Powers, 2008). This creates the need to come up with mechanisms that will help contain the situation. Aims and scope: This report undertakes to investigate the reasons for the poor performance of the employees and organization in general. The report also recommends ways by which the problem can be dealt with and possibly eliminated. It will study into details the generational demarcations and the effect they have on employee performance. It will also take a critical look at the concept of bureaucracy and possibly recommend better procedures within the organization that will reduce the amount of bureaucracy (Galbraith, 1977) and (Schermerhorn et al, 2011). Discussion Data entry and record keeping There has been a rising concern by the government about poor service delivery of the organization to the public. This has led to a partial cut in funding of the organization by the government. Government auditors have been complaining of poor, untimel y and inaccurate data entry into the books of the organization. My team investigated this matter by observing the accountants found out that they are largely to blame for the menace. The head accountant, who is a Baby Boomer, is quite aged and of poor health. Most of the time, he is away from work due to health complications. However, he cannot delegate his responsibilities to his assistants of generation X and Y. This is because he believes that they are not as qualified to handle the task and that they are not serious at work. The organization’s strict bureaucratic procedures also cannot allow these duties to be relegated to someone else apart from himself. There are some forms that have to await the government auditor’s signature for days and even weeks. All the work has to be piled up awaiting his return to office in order to be done. This explains the untimely entry of data. Another observation we made was that the conduct of the junior accountant staff is wanting . My team, in disguise, found out that the junior accountants, all belonging to generation Y, did not take their work seriously and with the caution it deserves. They listened to radio and engaged the social media during work. In one of the incidents, he gave my â€Å"man† a receipt with the wrong figure and did not realize to rectify this error.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on The Poor Performance of the Employees and Organization specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Generation Y This is the generation of persons born between the 1970s and early 2000. This generation is generally characterized by increased use of and familiarity with the communication technology, media, digital technology and neoliberal approach to almost everything (Strauss and Howe, 1991) This explains why, in our observation, most of the younger staff broke most rules within the organization code of conduct. They seemed to be always at logge rheads with the Baby Boomers arguing about the right thing to do in every circumstance. This explains the sharp division between the Baby Boomers and the generation Y. When interviewed about the sluggish nature of their working, the generation Y confessed that they did not find the organization objectives and mission fulfilling to their individual desire of growth and a feeling of self worth (Martin and Tulgan, 2001). Most of them were in the look out for other jobs and were willing and eager to leave immediately another job opportunity came up. They also said that the staff was biased against them. The much older employees and management were pointed out as the most biased. They treated them unfairly and did not give them a chance to explore their capabilities. They also found out that work in the organization was boring, applying same procedures quite repetitive, no creativity was allowed and there were strict timelines and reprimands by their superiors over petty mistakes. The em ployees also spent most of their times in ‘exciting’ activities like listening to music and chatting in the social media as a way of eliminating the boredom. Generation X This is the generation born after the Baby Boomers from the early 1960s to 1980. They are defined as a group of people without identity, who face an uncertain, ill defined and hostile future. The older generations view generation x as reactive people who are more focused to money than anything else (Stephey, 2008). These employees, when interviewed, expressed concern that the management did not factor in their needs. Most of them were parents and needed time to be with their families. They left work for home earlier than the rest and were never willing to work overtime. Because of this, many fell out with the management for neglecting their duties and showing no real concern for responsibility at work.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More This makes the employees feel that the management does not understand their needs. This has led to a negative attitude among these employees with the management. This has contributed to poor work relations and the entire performance of the organization. Baby Boomers This is the generation of persons born in the post war period of between 1946 and 1964. These come with privileges since most of them are brought up in the period when there is great affluence. They regard themselves as a special generation that values traditions and rules. This generation sharply contrasts generation Y who does not value traditions, and would be better off doing new things and applying new techniques at work. Because of this, the two groups seem to be in perpetual conflict with each other. The Boomers do not approve of most things that the generation Y does. They feel that they are lazy, spending most of their work time on activities that distract them from work. This, to them, is unethical of work and should not be allowed. The generation Y, on the other hand, feels that the Boomers do not like them, and are out to make their life at work difficult. Observations carried out in the study found Boomers and generation Y in consistent conflict and confrontations. At meetings, Boomers opposed almost all of generation Y suggestions, rubbishing them as childish. The Boomers are the only group that upheld the concept of bureaucracy, therefore, perceived by generations X and Y as frustrating their efforts at work and as responsible for the poor performance of the organization. Stress This was found to be a common feature for all employees. They are generally dissatisfied with the organization. While people in generation Y want a place where they can explore their talents further and exhibit their expertise, generation X want a place where the management can understand and provide for their needs, giving them ample time to tend to their families. The Boomers are fine with the organization procedures. However, they have a problem with their fellow employees, who they feel are antagonistic to work procedures, therefore, jeopardizing the performance of the organization. The management is facing a hard time while coordinating these employees who have divergent views and ideas about working. The generation X and Y view management as hostile towards them and not understanding their needs. Communication Communication in the organization is lacking. Most of the instances when employees talk, there is always confrontation and blame game. According to Fletcher and Major (2006), teams report greater team work and success rates at work when they work and communicate face to face. The media richness theory points out that communication in the work place increases the degree of effectiveness in the organization (Daft and Lengel, 1986.) In this organization, effective communication is lacking. Therefore, a lot of misunderstanding occurs among employees and with the management. This explains the high number of conflicts witnessed in the organization, with some employees not talking to each other t all (May and Mumby, 2005). The employees also feel left out in the decision making process. They are alienated in the formulation of work procedures. Their consent and suggestions for working procedures and suggestions for effective changes is never sought by management. Instead, rules of operation are imposed on them and they are expected to adjust and accommodate the rules and changes without opposition (Suh, 1999). Customer complaints This organization has for a long time maintained an effective customer feedback program. For some time now, we have been receiving negative feedback from our customers concerning the organization’s service delivery and customer care. Surveillance cameras were secretly put in places where employees interacted directly with customers. What we observed was a number of cases where the employees were rude to the customers. Some emp loyees take longer to attend to customers, while others engage in gossip with other employees or using their mobile phones. Some even get to the extent of sending the customers to the next available teller while they do nothing. It was noted that the employees discriminated against some customers. This was based on sex and looks. Most of our employees are women. They treated women customers rudely compared to the male customers. At the same time, customers who seemed highly sophisticated in terms of looks and dress were treated better than others. Conclusion This organization has been adversely affected by the bureaucratic mode of operation. Operations are carried out in a strictly rigid framework. When one component of the process is lacking, the whole process becomes paralyzed and nothing can be done to continue the process of operations. Another factor that is detrimental to the operations of the organization is the problem of communication. There is a general lack of communicati on among the workers and with the management. There is no instituted mechanism of solving conflicts among the employees and with management. Employees are also not able to freely express themselves, as they are not included in the decision making process or consulted on work procedures. They are treated as passive actors. Another problem within the organization is the problem of groupings and factions. The employees are divided into three distinct groups: the Baby Boomers, the Generation X and Y. These groups have demarcated themselves, with each group feeling superior to the others and downplaying the role the others play in the organization. This has led to a proliferation of conflicts among the employees and a lack of unity in achieving the organization goals. The final and most important factor lacking in the organization is motivation. The employees lack motivation and the reason to work well and effectively. They come to work late and only perform what they have to, without pu tting extra effort to do well or even better. The management seems to be lacking the right strategies to tackle these problems. It has remained hard on the employees without attempting to change their approach towards their needs, applying the right motivational strategies and understanding their needs. Recommendation After a careful analysis of these problems and reference to scholarly material, we came up with the following recommendations of what needs to be done in order to remedy the situation and get the organization back on performance excellence. Our recommendations were arrived at bearing in mind that there is a moratorium on employing of additional staff. Therefore, they are geared towards finding viable solutions that will work with the existing employees without laying any one of them off. Bureaucracy Customers view bureaucratic organizations as not aimed at satisfying their needs. The employees attribute this inefficiency to the idea that all policy is similar for all c ustomers. This organization is unresponsive to customers’ individual needs and situations. The policies of the organization are solely designed to benefit the organization and not the customers. It does not admit the mistakes it does, rather shifting the blame onto the customer. The organization is slow to innovativeness and reluctant to change, as dictated by time and events. They view the organizations products and services as inferior. Employees in such organizations are not enthusiastic about working in the organizations. They are not friendly and do not care much whether the customer is satisfied or not. In the organization, departments and employees do not cooperate to get the job done. The executives strive more for personal advancement and power. Promotions are made based on politics rather than merit. Information is hoarded and used as a basis for power. Mostly, the responsibility for failure is denied and the blame shifted to others, especially the junior employees. Bureaucracy is generally detrimental to organization’s effectiveness. It weakens employee morale and divides people within the organization setting each against the other. This misdirects their energy into conflict with one another and destructive competition that does not work to achieve the mission statement. Because of these inherent problems associated with bureaucratic model, we recommend that the model be scrapped and replaced with a more flexible and liberal model of operation. Employees should be allowed some freedom at work. They should be left to work without thorough supervision and compulsion by the supervisors. Procedures should be neutralized and simplified to allow for more relegation of duties and responsibilities. The clear cut demarcations between employee ranks should also be neutralized so that all employees feel equal and important to the organization despite their rank. Communication Most executives will agree that communication is an essential part for the success of the organization. Information should be clearly communicated to enhance role clarity for the employees. The problem of role clarity leads to stress, tension, anxiety, dissatisfaction, lack of job interest and lack of job innovation. In most bureaucratic organizations, information tends to flow downwards. It is unusual for information to take another route, like from the subordinate to the superior. Unfortunately, this organization falls under this framework, characterized with a rigidity of information flow. According to Leavitt (1958), one way communication is faster than two way communication channel. However, the latter is more accurate than the former and should be adopted. Differences in the organization should be taken seriously by allowing the other to speak openly and accept the possibility that the other’s perspective may override your own. I would therefore recommend that, the organization’s management introduces a system of openness in the pr ocess of decision making that involves all the employees, either wholly or in representation. Debates about various implementations should be carried out freely, with no intimidation or victimization of criticism. Among the workers, healthy communication should be encouraged and gossip discouraged. Workshops and seminars to enlighten the employees on the strength of diversity should be organized by the management. Through this, the employees will learn to appreciate one another and compliment each other. Motivation One of the roles of the manager is to get employees to do their job well. Rather than use of coercion, he should motivate employees to perform their duties voluntarily. An understanding and appreciation of human nature is vital to the process of motivation. Various theories like the theory Y by Douglas McGregor, two factor motivation hygiene theories by Fredrick Herzberg, Abraham Maslow’s theory Z hierarchy of needs and Elton Mayo’s experiments can be used. These theories generally posit that human beings should be treated with dignity and respect of all forms at workplace. Motivated employees are more productive and innovative. The inverse is true. As a result, I would recommend the following measures by management as a motivational strategy for the employees: The employees should be reinforced positively with high expectations of them by the management and customers. This way, they will feel self worth and motivated to uphold the high expectations. Discipline and punishment should be applied effectively, and by no means should it be applied in excess or unfairly, or used to coerce the employees. All employees must be treated fairly, without favoritism and discrimination on generation group or sex. Employee needs also need to be factored in at work and be met. Individual needs should be addressed with individual concern and given the right attention. Work related goals should be set, which when met, the employees are rewarded. The rew ards may not necessarily be financial but they could be holidays or trips (March and Simon, 1958). Theory Y In general, we recommend an approach of theory Y to the management of the organization. Employees are people who are ambitious and exercise self-control. They enjoy their physical and mental work. The management should support them on this basis. The organization should let them use their creativity in problem solving by applying their talents. They should develop trust among the employees by communicating freely with subordinates. Decision making should be done with the involvement of both the subordinates and their seniors. Reference List Barrows, C. W. and Powers, T., 2008. Introduction to Management in the Hospitality Industry. Hoboken: John Willey and Sons. Daft, R. L. and Lengel, R. H., 1986. Organizational Information Requirements, Media Richness and Structural Design. Management Science, 32(5), 23-57. Fletcher, T. D., and Major, D. A., 2006. The Effects of Communicatio n Modality on Performance and Self-ratings of Team Work Components. Journal of computer mediated communication, 11(2), 15-18, article 9. Galbraith, J., 1977. Organization Design. Reading, MA: Addison-Wesley. Leavitt, H., 1958. Managerial Psychology. Chicago: University of Chicago Press March, J. G. and Simon, H. A., 1958. Organizations. New York: Wiley. May, S. and Mumby, D. K., 2005. Engaging Organizational Communication Theory and Research. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage. Schermerhorn, J., Davidson, P., Poole, D., Simon, A., Woods, P., and Chau, S. L., 2011. Management Foundations and Applications-value pack. New York: Wiley. Stephey, M. J., 2008. Gen-x: The Ignored Generation time? New York: Wiley. Strauss, W. and Howe, N., 1991. Generations: The History of America’s Future, 1584-2069. New York: William Morrow and Company. Suh, K. S., 1999. Impact of Communication Medium on Task Performance and Satisfaction: an Examination of Media-Richness Theory. New York: Cengage Learning. Tul gan, B and Martin, C. A. (2001). Managing Generation Y: Global citizens born in the  late seventies and early eighties. Harvard: New York Times.

The Industrial Revolution Essay by BestEssay.Education

The Industrial Revolution Essay Any student in a modern western civilization or history course will of course reach those units related to the Industrial Revolution – the early Industrial Revolution (1750-1850) in England and the ensuing second Industrial Revolution that spread to the rest of Western Europe and America. This was a fascinating time in man’s journey, for it brought changes in lifestyles that no one could have imagined, along with social, economic, and political upheaval. It is no wonder, then, that instructors and professors love to assign essay and research papers on a huge variety of topics related to both Industrial Revolutions. If you have options for topics, you will have no problem finding one that interests you, because they are so varied. And almost any type of essay can be written as well – descriptive, definition, comparison/contrast, cause/effect, and persuasive/argumentative. Here are some topic ideas for essays of each type. Descriptive Describe the working conditions in specific industries – meat packing, coal mining, steel or automotive factories. Describe the impact of the invention of the steam engine on industries other than transportation Describe the exodus from rural to urban areas and the living conditions in urban areas surrounding factories Definition What is an industrial revolution? Can we say that mankind, throughout all of history, has had mini industrial revolutions beginning with the invention of the wheel? Provide an extensive definition of the term division of labor both during the Industrial Revolution and today How did Henry Ford define the factory system that he created? Comparison/Contrast Contrast the manufacturing systems that used steam engine power with those that later came to use coal and hydroelectric power? Compare and contrast the lifestyles of so-called â€Å"native† Americans with those of newer immigrants who came from Eastern and Southern Europe. Contrast the public educational systems between the years 1875-1945 and today. Cause/Effect What were the effects of the Industrial Revolution on the family unit? What changes in governmental economic policies occurred as a result of the industrial revolution? What conditions and pressures resulted in child labor, work hours, and working conditions laws that restricted powerful industrial leaders? Persuasive/Argumentative Write a persuasive essay that supports or rejects the notion of laissez-faire capitalism. Minimum wage laws in the U.S. began in 1938. Make a case that they are or are not necessary today. Government regulations of industry and commerce began as early as the 1920’s. Are we-over-regulated today? What single invention during the Industrial Revolution (first or second) do you believe has, over time, had the greatest impact on man? Writing the Industrial Revolution Essay These essays, like those for any other courses, will require the same basic structure – introduction, body and conclusion. As well, be certain that you have included the following: A strong thesis statement in your introduction. Why is this topic important? The answer to that question will give you your thesis. You must have supportive detail for each point that you make in your body paragraphs. This means that you will need facts and figures from research – don’t’ scrimp! Begin your essay with a startling statistic or a short anecdote from your research. Be creative. Your essay can utilize interesting formats. For example, an essay that describes life on the factory floor might be written in the form of a letter that a new immigrant is writing to his family back in Europe. Writing the Industrial Revolution Research Paper Any of the topics above could be expanded to produce an excellent research paper. And, because of the time period involved, there are innumerable primary resource materials available. Use those, rather than secondary source materials. They are easy to find, and your instructor or professor will be greatly impressed! For these and any other essays or papers for which you need help, be sure to contact the helpful folks at .

Development of mathematical model to calculate fuel consumption of Essay

Development of mathematical model to calculate fuel consumption of passenger cars - Essay Example The NEDC was simulated under laboratory conditions, and driving parameters together with the fuel consumption were measured. A few driving phases were identified so that any drive cycle may be composed by these phases; and mathematical relationships have been fitted on measured data for each of the phases. The world population is 6.5 billion at the moment and rising. Climate change has caused widespread greenhouse effects like global warming, higher acid levels in oceans and reduced ice cover at the poles (Harrabin, 2013). The major causes of greenhouse effect are the by-products of industrialization, and especially carbon dioxide (Samimi & Zarinabadi, 2011). The level of carbon dioxide, the main constituent of emission by vehicles, is linked to consumption of fuel by the vehicle. Due to this there is need to regulate the amount of greenhouse gases that are emitted into the atmosphere and this is effective by fuel economy. The fuel economy (FE) of any vehicle can be calculated as a r atio of distance travelled per unit volume of fuel consumed or as the ratio of fuel consumption per distance travelled (GFEI, 2013). Fuel economy standards can be of various forms such as litres of fuel consumed per hundred kilometres of distance travelled or distance travelled per unit volume of vehicle fuel (An, et al., 2011, p. 4). The regulations pertaining to fuel economy followed by the four largest automobile markets, namely, the US, the EU, Japan and China differ significantly from each other leading to a lack of global standards on the issue.

Strategy implementation and context Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Strategy implementation and context - Case Study Example This strategy should be supported by a different structure that would carry on the fulfillment of various responsibilities and tasks to achieve the organization's objectives. However, in implementing a chosen strategy which requires restructuring within an organization, various strategic human resource management issues should be addressed. In the case of VSM, where the recommended strategies are to induce inorganic growth and to consolidate fragmented markets through acquisitions, potential barriers to the implementation of these strategies are discussed below. Capacity talks about the ability of the environment of an organization to promote growth, which is measured through relative abundance or scarcity in the market. In the case of VSM, researchers suggest in their recommendation acquisitions in the market in order for the company to strengthen its presence, due to scarcity of resources. There is little growth in some parts of the market that it needs to be consolidated for VSM to maintain profitability and acquire new resources for its expansion goals. Stability and dynamism is what the volatility dimension is about-the degree of instability in the environment of the company.... The third dimension is determined by relative homogeneity and dispersion of elements which make an environment either simple or complex. VSM operates in a relative heterogeneous environment with dispersed elements, given that its sewing machine production is coupled with the changes in technology, which we all know is more rapidly-changing. When it incorporates information technology in its offering, the company becomes subject to changes in technology in the market place. Also, the company faces relative threat of new entrant as competitors that fight in terms of costs. All these comprise the complexity in VSM's environment. P&G P&G is in the business of fast-moving consumer goods-as it offers a diverse range of products that consumers use and consume in their daily lives. From abundant to scarce--the amount of resources that are available to the organization determines the degree of an organization to sustain growth; this is the capacity dimension of the organization, as Robbins has put it. The fast moving consumer goods is an abundant environment for P&G, as basically as the people in the world are consumers. The world market has a lot of opportunities in terms of untapped market where P&G can offer the vast range of its products. In terms of volatility, the second dimension in the environment which Robbins described as the degree of instability in the environment, P&G's surrounding environment is relatively dynamic. From stable to dynamic: the degree of high unpredictable change a company faces makes forecasting and testing various probabilities becomes imperative for managers when making decisions. The 'consumer' factor, or the

Globalisation And National Security The Effects On Malaysia Politics Essay

Globalisation And National Security The Effects On Malaysia Politics Essay Security is a fickle concept, the level of which is both relative to the observers position and subjective to the observers stance. Many factors influence the security of a nation state and a rise in security in one state may be balanced by a corresponding reduction in another. Conversely, universal actions or events may alter the whole system either upwards (periods of hegemonic rule) or downwards (financial crisis). Overall, the intricate balance of the global and individual security status is swayed by many issues such as globalisation, international economics and international politics on both micro and macro levels. Globalisation is an omnipresent process that involves an increasing level economic activity, interdependence and trade between countries. As the effects of globalisation increase throughout the world, the power of the state has been diminished as the influence and control levels of international governmental organizations, non-government organizations and trans-national corporations has increased. As such a shift in control and influence occurs the level of national security within any state must shift, but in which way? Proponents of globalisation postulate that globalisation increases security by reducing the likelihood of war by the promotion of trade, but if reviewed at a macro level, individual state national security may be adversely affected by globalisation. Problem Statement Malaysia, as one of the Asian Tigers has carried out major change to its economy via its New Economic Policy programs since 1971. This program of encouraging industrialization of the Malaysian workforce and economy has been matched in recent decades by the emergence of globalisation as a world-wide phenomenon. Together, both have altered Malaysias national security relative to both Asia and the world, but to what effect? The aim of this paper is to review the effects of economic globalisation on the national security of Malaysia with specific reference to recent events in the global economy and financial system, such as the Asian Financial Crisis of the late 1990s and the Global Financial Crisis that is still affecting the world. Objective The objective of this paper is to ascertain whether economic globalisation is eroding or strengthening the national security of Malaysia. In doing so this research will examine economic globalisation and its effects on national security; to assess the impact of the effects of economic globalisation using the Asian Financial Crisis (AFC) and the current Global Financial Crisis (GFC) as test cases; and to review Malaysias national security as affected by economic globalisation. Significance of the Study The significance of this study is the due to the lack of specific literature relating to economic globalisation and national security caused by the current GFC in a Malaysian context. This is due to timeliness and the fluid nature of both the current GFC and globalisation as a whole. Additionally, this study will provide an external view point on a little discussed and published topic of the links between economic globalisation, geo-politics, growth and development. Most literature on the national security of Malaysia concentrates on the internal security of the country, the regional security provided by ASEAN and the internal military and defence capability. This research paper seeks to review the effects of the global economic changes on Malaysia and her security and to review the level of security internally looking outwards at the world and outwardly looking in towards Malaysia Literature Review This paper is on Malaysian national security. However to properly review this subject this paper will cover a number of interrelated topics. Therefore a variety of writings, including some on international relations theory, national autonomy, geo-economics theory and globalisation will be used. Contemporary articles and media will update current discussions on economic globalisation in a Malaysian context. Books Joan M Nelson, Jacob Meerman and Abdul Rahman Embong, Globalization National Authority: The Malaysian Experience, Singapore: Institute of South East Asian Studies Malaysia has long had an uncertain relationship to globalization, yet it has been held as a shining example of the second tier of Asian Tigers, leading the way with export-led growth and the positive role for foreign direct investment. Despite the near continuous growth, up until the Asian Financial Crisis of the late 1990s, Malaysias political leadership has regularly expressed doubt about the role of the prevailing international political and economic order, regardless of the benefits economic globalisation has had on the country, its growth and its development. The authors bring together a group of Malaysian and foreign scholars to discuss and dissect the effects of globalisation on Malaysian development over the long-run. They full spectrum of issues is considered, from economic and social policy to new challenges from transnational Islam, and they are unafraid of voicing doubt where the effects of globalisation are overblown. Geoffrey Till, Emrys Chew and Joshua Ho, Globalization and Defence in the Asia-Pacific: Arms across Asia, New York: Routledge, 2009. This volume examines the impact of all forms of globalisation on the economies, military-industrial complexes and national security policies of the Asia-Pacific region. The work is divided into three main parts. The first explores globalisation and its general outcomes on the policy making of the nation-state; the second section reviews how globalisation affects a states threat perception and defence posture within the context of the Asia-Pacific region; while the third examines how it impacts on a states apportionment of resources to defence, and how economic globalisation influences the defence industry, with specific reference to the defence procurement policies and practices of the different states across the Asia-Pacific. Ganguly S, Scobell A and Liow J C, The Routledge Handbook of Asian Security Studies, Abindon: Routledge, 2010 This publication provides a detailed examination of security dynamics in the distinct sub-regions that make up Asia, and also links the study of these regions by examining the geopolitical ties between each of them. There are many interwoven and complexity of security issues throughout Asia, this publication deals with all foremost security issues in the area which range from unresolved territorial disputes (maritime and inland), unredeemed claims and intra-state conflicts to transnational terrorist movements and nuclear rivalries. Andrew Sheng, From Asian to Global Financial Crisis: An Asian Regulators View of Unfettered Finance in the 1990s and 2000s, New York: Cambridge University Press, 2009 Something Here Baylis J. and Smith S., The Globalization of World Politics, An Introduction to International Affairs, 3rd Edition, New York: Oxford University Press, 2005. The relationships between globalisation, international economics, international politics and security are discussed at length in The Globalization of World Politics, An Introduction to International Relations by John Baylis and Steve Smith, first published in 2001, updated in 2005 and again in 2008. While providing a comprehensive and detailed understanding of contemporary international relations overall, it is more an excellent generalist publication that a specialist work dealing with security and economics. The version available is from 2005; yet later versions exist that contain more up to date data, references and interpretations of the effects of globalisation on world politics. Nathan K., 1998, Malaysia: Reinventing the Nation, in Alagappa, M. (ed.), Asian Security Practice: Material and Ideational Influences, California: Stanford University, pp. 513-548 This pivotal book chapter asks how is national security thought of and conceptualised in Malaysia. It analyses Malaysias conceptions of national security, showing the importance of historical legacies and the nations multi-ethnic composition. Given these intrinsic obstacles to national identity creation, the nations elite have focused on economic growth and modernisation as the methods of unifying and securing its population. Recent crises, however, may challenge this strategy and force the leadership to redefine its concepts of national security. Malaysian national security concepts are inseparable from the countrys historical experience with British colonialism. This legacy precipitated the formation of the state ahead of the creation of a nation. As a result of this history, elite authority and state sovereignty have run ahead of a self-conscious national identity and cultural integration. Nonetheless, it has been the difficult task of post-independence policy makers to form a nation out of the pluralist, multi-ethnic state received from the British. The significant influence on national security policy is shown by the constitutional, political, and economic arrangements that the ruling elite have made and used to protect and promote the complex interests of a multi-ethnic society. Recent claims of repression of minorities demonstrate the difficulties inherent in balancing and managing competing interests in the pursuit of national security and national identity. Norrin M. Ripsman and T. V. Paul, Globalization and the National Security State, New York: Oxford University Press, 2010 Recently, many have postulated a correlation between the extent of globalisation and the erosion of the nation-state. In the sphere of national security, supporters of the globalisation thesis have argued that a states power has diminished compared to international governmental institutions, non-governmental organisations and trans-national corporations. At first they pointed to reductions in both global military expenditure (which has risen significantly in recent times) and interstate war. This book tests the proposition that these trends are indicative of the reduction of nation-states role as a guarantor of national security against the evidence available and finds that globalisation proponents have largely gotten it wrong. The reduction in interstate warfare can mostly be attributed to the end of the Cold War, not globalisation. Additionally, the great powers of the US, China, and Russia continue to pursue traditional nation-state policies and strategies. Regional security arran gements such as the European Union and ASEAN have not realised much, and weaker states, the ones most impacted by globalization, are significantly more traditional in their policies and approaches to national security, choosing to rely on their own resources and abilities rather than those of transnational and regional institutions. Jonathan Kirshner, Globalization and National Security, New York: Routledge, 2006 Though much has been published on the topics of globalisation and national security, there has been little in the way of a methodical examination of the impact that globalisation has on the national security of states. In Globalization and National Security the top scholars of the international relations realm evaluate the consequences of globalisation on national security. This book identifies three distinct processes of globalisation the flow of information, the intensification of economic exchange, and marketisation and explores how they can influence the capacity and power of nations and states, as well as clash within and among them. Most significantly, the book deals with how non-state actors, such as terrorists and smugglers, use the benefits of globalisation changes and how this, in turn, changes the nature of the security game. Failure to incorporate for the influence of globalisation will make it increasingly harder to understand variations in the prospects for conflict, t he balance of power, and the strategic choices made by states. Barry Buzan, Ole Waever and Jaap de Wilde, Security: A New Framework for Analysis, Boulder: Lynne Rienner Publishers, 1988 This book describes how two schools of thought now exist in security studies: traditionalists wanting to restrict the subject to just politico-military issues and while liberalists who want to extend it across the societal, economic and environmental sectors. This book sets out an all-inclusive statement of the new security studies, founding the case for the broader agenda. The authors contend that security is a particular type of state politics applicable to a much wide range of issues. In answering the traditionalists ideal that this model makes the topic incoherent, they offer a constructivist operational model for differentiating the process of securitisation from that of politicisation. Their method includes the traditionalist agenda and dispels the artificial boundary between international political economy and security studies, opening the way for a productive interplay between the two fields. It also illustrates how the theory of regional security arrangements remain relevant in todays world. Articles Mark Thirwell, The Return of Geo-economics: Globalisation and National Security, Lowy Institute for International Policy, September 2010 One concept that has previously been used to try to encompass the various connections between international economics, geopolitics and security is the idea of geo-economics. Mark Thirlwell, Director of the Lowy Institutes International Economy program argues that if one wants to try to understand many of the most important strategic developments facing the world over the next couple of decades, then one is going to need to devote a reasonable amount of time to thinking about what is going on in the international economy. He discusses the tangle of international economics, geopolitics and security, and assesses whether we are heading for a new era of geo-economics. Theoretical Framework Not sure what goes in here but will have to find outà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ The theoretical framework for this research will be based on literature reviews and collation of data from journals, articles, media and the internet. The intention of this paper is to bring together the concepts of economic globalisation, geo-economics and national security and review the contemporary situation in South East Asia in order to provide a better understanding of the status of Malaysias national security. Limitations Quite possibly the most significant limitation for this research paper is obtaining up to date and timely material in order to carry out the review. With the current global financial crisis still occurring around us and no end in sight, no publications exist that can comment comprehensively on this topic. The selection of books and articles for the literature review has been chosen due to their relatively recent publication, but will need to be supplemented with less scholarly sources such as more recent wed and news media articles. Additionally, some of the books that have been obtained are not the most recent editions; however various internet resources have been employed where possible to ensure ideas and concepts gained from older editions have not been superseded. In general, more recent sources have been chosen in order to gain the most up to date views and data on the processes of globalisation and security. To further limit resources the significant time constraints preclude seeking material from beyond the sources discussed in the methodology section below. Methodology This research paper will focus mainly on a review and analysis of data collected from the resources available at the time in the libraries of Maktab Turus Angkatan Tentura (MTAT), Malaysian Armed Forces Ministry of Defence, the University of Malaya, Malaysian and New Zealand bookshops. Various journals and articles sourced from on-line databases will also be used as well. Chapter Outline This paper is structured into five chapters. Chapter one presents an introduction to the study to be undertaken, includes background information, problems statement, hypothesis and a review of the literature available in compiling this research. The methodology undertaken in order to obtain the required information is also outlined in Chapter one along with the limitations of the research. Chapter two focuses on the theoretical concepts of economic globalisation and national security. This chapter will define each of these terms and discuss the wide ranging issues with each concept. In doing so it will examine the effects of economic globalisation on national security Chapter three will assess the impact of the effects of economic globalisation using the Asian Financial Crisis (AFC) and the current Global Financial Crisis (GFC) as test cases. Chapter four will detail Malaysias response to the recent financial crisis, review its national security as affected by economic globalisation and assess any changes in national security that occurred because of these events. Chapter five concludes the paper by drawing together the concepts of economic globalisation and national security in Malaysia and reviews Malaysias national security trend due to these influences.

A study of Influence in Online Shopping Essay

Research Question: How online shopping influence purchasers buying decision? Research Objective: To investigate how online shopping might influence purchasers’ decision. ___________________________________________________________________________ Online shopping is the procedure of purchasing products and services from vendors over the Internet. In view of the fact of the emergence of the World Wide Web, merchants have wanted to market their products to potential purchasers who occupy their time on online. Purchasers are able to visit website stores from the amenity of their residences as well as shop as they take a seat in front of their electronics via online. Purchasers are able to purchase a massive assortment of products from online stores, plus just about anything are able to be purchased from companies that provide their products or services online. Clothing, reading materials, hardware, household appliances, toys, software, and health insurance are just a number of the thousands of products or services purchasers are able to purchase from an online store. Individuals are getting more contented upon the concept of online shopping. This may perhaps be endorsed to a variety of factors, for example, hectic modern lives, longer working hours, ability to look through products from the amenity of one’s home, as well as a wide range of alternatives are available.(Quinn,2013) Adding on, online review influences purchaser’s buying decision. From the reviews, purchasers are educated with the quality of the product, the rate of shipping, the efficiency of refundable or exchangeable term, the past customer’s review, the variety of options, the incoming of new product and last but not least, which most people are facing, the special size matter. According to the recent survey carried out by Dimensional Research, an overpowering 90% of respondents stated that buying decisions are influenced by positive online reviews. Despite the fact that, 86 % said negative online reviews influenced buying decisions. (Gesenhues, 2013). â€Å"Customers are firmly in the driving seat in today’s  rapidly changing retail landscape; with more choice and information at their fingertips than ever before. As retailers, we have to change with them and ensure we’re offering a more personalized, inspirational shopping experience which fits in with their busy lifestyles†, Laura Wade-Gery, the Executive Director E-Commerce Multi-channel of Marks & Spencer quoted. Furthermore, according to the researcher of marketingcharts.com in the year of 2013, one of the strongest influences that determine the purchasers’ buying decision are deals and discounts. According to the researcher of RetailMeNot.com, a survey carried out by Ipsos, 56% of US respondents stated that promotions on the products they are purchasing influences their judgements or decisions, meanwhile 51% takes in reviews , ratings or opinions of customers who have bought the same product as an influence on their purchase into account. Respondents were asked their preferences to shop online rather than shopping in store for the identical product, 47% of US respondents stated that they prefer to be able to weigh against costs at different retailers effortlessly, and an equivalent percentage stated that it is because they are able access stores that are far from them. However, 16% stated that it is because they find online shopping a rather pleasurable process and experience. â€Å"It’s now very clear: consumers prefer to shop through bits and bytes, with the majority of shopping behaviours and expectations shaped by online sources. To shift shoppers into buyers, retailers need to merge online and physical services to meet the demands of today’s digital shoppers†, Dick Cantwell, the Vice President and Global Lead, Retail of Cisco Internet Business Solutions Group quoted. Purchaser personalities that are important in understanding why purchasers online shopping consist of demographic aspects and characteristics. Four related demographic aspects which are age, sex, income and education have a moderating result on the affiliation among the three essential determinants â€Å"usages†, â€Å"convenience†, and â€Å"pleasurable† and purchasers’ approach towards online shopping. The inï ¬â€šuence of age is obvious throughout the detail that compared to elder purchasers, younger adults are more fascinated in using latest technologies, to know new products, explore for product details, and judge and weigh up alternatives. While a large number of purchasers that shops online, the study on what makes purchasers to shop online has naturally been patchy. The review explains that the approach towards online shopping and purpose to shop online are not only influenced by ease of use, usefulness, and enjoyment, as well as by aspects like purchasers’ personality, situational aspects, product quality, online shopping experiences, promotions, and online reviews. Bibliography â€Å"Eight Out of 10 Consumers Shop Through Bits and Bytes, According to Cisco Study.† Network. (2013): n. page. Web. 27 Jan. 2014. . Gesenhues, Amy. â€Å"Survey: 90% Of Customers Say Buying Decisions Are Influenced By Online Reviews.†Marketing Land. (2013): n. page. Web. 27 Jan. 2014. . â€Å"HOW SOCIAL MEDIA INFLUENCES PURCHASE DECISION WHEN BUYING ONLINE.†Sovedo. (2013): n. page. Web. 27 Jan. 2014. . Jusoh, Zuroni Md, and Hai Ling Goh. â€Å"FACTORS INFLUENCING CONSUMERS’ ATTITUDE TOWARDS E-COMMERCE PURCHASES THROUGH ONLINE SHOPPING.†International Journal of Humanities and Social Science. Vol. 2 No. 4. (2012): n. page. Web. 27 Jan. 2014. . Katawetawaraks, Chayapa, and Lu Wang Cheng. â€Å"Online Shopper Behavior: Influences of Online Shopping Decision.† Asian Journal of Business Research. Volume 1.Number 2 (2011): n. page. Web. 27 Jan. 2014. . KIM, JONGEUN. â€Å"UNDERSTANDING CONSUMERS’ ONLINE SHOPPING AND PURCHASING BEHAVIORS.† (1996): n. page. Web. 27 Jan. 2014. . Ruyter, Ko de, and TonËÅ"ita Perea y Monsuwe ´, Benedict G.C Dellaert. â€Å"What drives consumers to shop online?.† International Journal of Service Industry Management. Vol. 15 No. 1. (2004): pp. 102-121. Web. 27 Jan. 2014. . â€Å"Top Influence on Online Purchase Decisions? Deals and Discounts.† Marketing Charts. (2013): n. page. Web. 27 Jan. 2014. . Quinn, K.J. â€Å"Consumer research: How social media influences purchasing decisions.† Floor Covering News. Volume 27/Number 7. (2013): n. page. Print. . Veronika, SvatoÃ… ¡ovà ¡. â€Å"Motivation of Online Buyer Behavior.† Journal of Competitiveness. Vol. 5.Issue 3 (2013): pp. 14 – 30. Web. 27 Jan. 2014. .