Abraham Lincoln was the Greatest American to Ever Live

Throughout history, there have been many incredible Americans. So many phenomenal people have impacted this country. They have done incredible things to make their mark, and create a nation of freedom and liberty. However, there is one man that is the greatest American to ever live. He is a man who went through much suffering to make this country a better place. He faced much adversity, and overcame it to improve the lives of others. This man is Abraham Lincoln. Abraham Lincoln was born on February 12, 1809 in a log cabin in Hardin County Kentucky. His childhood was not an easy one, and he went through much loss, but he gained much character from it all. In 1816, the Lincoln family had to move because they were in debt. It is also believed that Lincoln’s father, Thomas Lincoln’s, strong beliefs against slavery had upset many, and had gotten him in some trouble. Lincoln’s fathers beliefs significantly affected him, and made him believe that African Americans shou ld be treated more fairly. When they were forced to move, they moved to Spencer County Indiana. Not many years after they had moved to Indiana, Abraham’s mother, Nancy Hanks Lincoln, died of milk sickness. When his mother died, Lincoln was only nine. About fourteen months after his mother’s death, his father married a woman named Sally Johnston. She ended up being an incredible mother to Lincoln. His new mother often encouraged him to read, and become smarter. He did just that, and he was extremely determined toShow MoreRelatedMore Than Just A Five Dollar Bill1429 Words   |  6 PagesJordan Ernst Mr. Wycislo American Government (1) Due December 19th, 2014 Government Term Paper More Than Just a Five Dollar Bill Compared to many other countries across the globe, The United States of America is defiantly one of the youngest nations. The nation is only 238 years old which is not a long time compared to other countries. Over the last 238 years a lot has happened in America. One thing that has not changed in the United States of America is the government. When people came overRead MorePresident Abraham Lincoln : Greatest President Of American History1516 Words   |  7 Pages2014 President Abraham Lincoln: Greatest President in American History President Lincoln said the following about the South in his Inaugural Address, In your hands, my dissatisfied fellow countrymen, and not in mine, is the momentous issue of civil war. The government will not assail you.... You have no oath registered in Heaven to destroy the government, while I shall have the most solemn one to preserve, protect and defend it.(Freidel and Sidey 2006) President Abraham Lincoln is look upon asRead MoreLincoln, Race, And The Spirit Of The 761247 Words   |  5 PagesPresident Abraham Lincoln was put into office March 4, 1861, and this would be the start of a significant change for America. Many people see Lincoln as one of the best presidents that was in office for America, but others have opposing views on how he was not the best president in office. In Lucas E. Morel’s, â€Å"Lincoln, Race, and the Spirit of ‘76†, he expresses, â€Å"Many people who consider Abraham Lincoln the greatest American president would be surprised to discover that he endorsed black colonizationsRead MoreThe Legacy Of Abraham Lincoln1728 Words   |  7 Pagesand passionate concern of dedicated individuals†. Slavery was a struggle that America had to overcome in the 1800s in order for America to progress. At the time, slaves were also going through hard times by getting separated from their families and going through excessive hard work on the plantations. Even though it was a struggle for the north, and the slaves, but not for the south since it was a benefit for them. In 1860, Abraham Lincoln was put into the Presidential office and would have a majorRead More Abraham Lincoln - President During the Civil War Essay741 Words   |  3 PagesAbraham Lincoln - President During the Civil War Abraham Lincoln was assuredly one of the greatest presidents in American history. This is demonstrated by his effective administration during the Civil War, the creation of policies that benefited everyone in the United States and the efforts that kept the United States from splintering during the Civil War and from its aftermath. Lincoln made excellent decisions in the Civil War. He guided his nation from being torn apartRead MoreA Brief Biography on Abraham Lincoln Essay1132 Words   |  5 PagesAbraham Lincoln â€Å"Abraham Lincoln caught the publics attention for a long time as he presented a great role model for all Americans. Even today, almost all political conversation mentions him as his achievements have spoken for him (Samuels,2012).† As an illustration, there are thousands of books, articles and web pages which talks about Lincoln and his own extra ordinary life achievements. â€Å"Lincoln was born in 1809 in small hut located on a farm called Skining Spring Farm in Hardin County, KentuckyRead MoreAbraham Lincoln and the Gettysburg Address1685 Words   |  7 PagesAbraham Lincoln and the Gettysburg Address History remembers Abraham Lincoln as one of the greatest leaders. He has made many significant contributions to the history of the United States and is considered one of the greatest presidents. He sacrificed himself for what he believed in, even if it meant starting a war against his own country. He believed in equality for everyone and that all men were created equal. As president he is best remembered for leading the Union through the Civil WarRead MoreAbraham Lincoln s Greatest Presidents1671 Words   |  7 Pagesopinion of the authors takes on whether Abraham Lincoln was one of America’s greatest presidents was that Paludan stated Lincoln was a president who wanted to defend and uphold the constitution of the United States, especially since President Lincoln always stated that all men are created equal and that meant blacks to in his opinion. He was the type of person who talked to the people not at the people when he spoke. Paludan believes Lincoln was a president tha t was greater than any other President inRead MoreAbraham Lincoln : His Fight For Freedom And Equality Essay1308 Words   |  6 PagesAbraham Lincoln: His Fight for Freedom and Equality Throughout history, slavery has been a controversial topic in the United States. There have been many revolts and rebellions, such as Gabriel’s Rebellion or Nat Turner’s Rebellion, fought over the abolition of slavery or for African Americans to be able to receive the same rights as those of white people. Many people have fought for this cause and one of those people is Abraham Lincoln. Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation, which is oneRead MoreThe Abraham Lincoln s Childhood1317 Words   |  6 Pages Summary The book starts with talking about Abraham Lincoln’s childhood. Abraham was born in Nolan Creek, Kentucky in 1809, to his parents Nancy Hanks and Thomas Lincoln. Abraham s father Thomas was described as â€Å"a tinker- a piddler- always doing but doing nothing great† (2). During his childhood, the family would move several times, first to Indiana and later to Illinois. Abraham’s mother, Nancy Hanks, died when he was still a boy. The following year his father, Thomas remarried to Sarah Bush Johnston

The Economic Crisis Of 2008-2009 - 1818 Words

The recent economic crisis of 2008-2009 that started in United States of America rapidly spread around the world due to the integration of the financial markets and the simplicity for investors to move throughout such markets. Therefore, countries had to deal with the economic effects of said crisis from a macroeconomic and regulatory perspective . From a regulatory perspective, governments realized the importance of the Prudential Banking Regulation and Supervision (PBRS) as a mechanism to control financial institutions and protect customers. However, in pursuing that purpose, regulators in the European Union (EU) and in the United States of America (USA or US) omitted a key aspect of the PBRS: incentives for the financial institutions†¦show more content†¦It was always a win- win situation . However, in 2008 the real estate bubble busted. The house market deflated and the prices of houses decreased sharply. Homeowners could no longer sell their houses at a higher price and creditors cannot longer receive a substantial payment for their mortgages. Banks will have now to manage lawyers, judicial process, and costs associated with the foreclosure. To make things more complicated, many of these loans (known as â€Å"subprime loans†) were sold to financial institutions. These financial institutions packaged several of these mortgages as a collateralized debt obligations (CDOs) and sold them to investors. The result, mortgages of all types from homeowners in the US were spread among investors all over the world. At the same time, CDOs turned to be a terrible investment for investors, so financial institutions could no longer sell packages of CDOs or at least repackage them: â€Å"Why? Because of the sheer scale of the housing bubble. Nationally, housing was probably overvalued by more than 50 percent by the summer of 2006, which meant that to eliminate the overvaluation, prices would have to fall by a third† . Then, investors started or at least threatened to start withdrawing their funds from the financial institutions, so financial institutions were force to liquidate their assets, generating a deleveraging process and a massive bank run. Furthermore, the general

Jennifer Lopez Essay Example For Students

Jennifer Lopez Essay Jennifer Lopez was born in the Bronx, New York on July 20, 1970. She is thedaughter of a computer specialist Kindergarten teacher. Lopez always knew sewanted to be a performer. She started her showbiz career by appearing in thechorus of dancer, singer and choreographer Hinton Battles Synchrocinicitymusical in Japan. Jennifer Lopez got her shot at acting in Connie KaisermansMy Little Girl where she perform a little part as Myra. She was selected as oneof choreographer Rosie Perezs fly girls after she won a national competitionof about 2,000 contestants. Lopez whose hip-hop dance numbers commanded a loyalaudience in Foxs in living color, parlayed her new visibility into roles onvarious T.V series and movies. In Living Colors was the first step for Lopez. Lopez was still living in New York and had to move to L.A. Lopez followed theshows producer Keenan Ivory Wayans Youll have more money and moreexperience advise to stick with the show. While she was shaking her bootyduring commercial on Living Color, one of her co-workers whose husband waswriting and producing South Central for Fox suggested her for a part. Lopez wasseen as a recurring character here. The show was practically over before itstarted. Melinda Lopez character which Lopez portrayed in CBS second chanceco-starring Connie Selleca and Megan Fallows was so popular that it wascontinued on Aaron Spelling series Malibu Road. She refused the development dealwhich was offered by CBS because she wanted a film career. Lopez introduced hertalent to top film-makers with the movie Mi Famillia. Following this movie shejumped on Joseph Rubens Money Train. Although, senator Bob Dole urgedAmericans to boycott the film and the co-stars Woody Harrison and Wesley Snipeswere trashed by critics. Lopez left the train with victory where she got on asGrace Santiago. Later on Lopez co-starred as Robin Williams latina teacherin the movie Jack. Despite having previously worked in Mi Famillia, Gregory Navaasked Lopez to audition as a part of nationwide search in Selena. No stranger tothe pressures of audition the former dancer came in, nailed her mark and won therole. Jennifer Lopez thrust into spot light with her performance in this movieand increased her Hollywood stock considerably. The film succeeded despite somegrumbly in the Mexican-American community that Lopez was of Puerto Rican decent. 56 Lopez who has a yen for pizzazz from childhood has made a terrificstart as star-crossed Selena with donning plenty of sequins and spandex. Selenamarked a new beginning for Lopez in more than just career terms. In the wrapparty of the movie In San Antonio, Lopezs boyfriend Ojani Noa took themicrophone and proposed on the dance floor. The couple married in early 1997. Lopez found out for sure that she had achieved stardom when false rumors of herdivorce where printed in mainstream newspapers after only two months ofmarriage. But, they divorced after a year in fact. Jennifer Lopez ranked 16th onthe People Magazines 1997s 50 most beautiful people list. Lopez ended JimCarreys Liar Liars spring box office sovereignty with her movie Anaconda. She revisited the same genie in the fall where she appeared opposite Sean Pennin Oliver Stones U-Turn.. Lopez beat out a bevy of A-list actresses to land arole in Out of Sight. Lopez who had signed a lucrative deal with Sony musicafter an intense bidding war will be next seen in Ants.

The Y2k Problem Essays - Calendars, Software Bugs, COBOL, Hazards

The Y2k Problem Y2K: Nearing Disaster or Minor Computer Flaw? By Pete Conti Imagine that, as you do annually, you are counting the minutes until the New Year arrives. You are watching Dick Clark announce that the countdown will begin soon, and you feel anxious. Finally, as you hear the offbeat 5-4-3-2-1-0, and let out a sigh of relief, something goes wrong. At precisely 12:00 A.M. on January 1 of the year 2000, computers across the nation crash, leaving the country in panic. Stores are looted, riots break out, 911 is dysfunctional, banks lose money, the stock market crashes, planes drop from the sky, and we are all left in the bitter darkness. Horror stories such as these are common among news broadcasts and the Internet, but many are wondering how the Y2K problem will, if at all, affect their lives. Some professionals say that the Y2K problem may only cause glitches in older, obsolete computers and mainframes, while others are warning the public, and urging proper preparedness for this imminent disaster. Although both sides of this conflict have very arguab le positions, the world is not taking the Y2K problem seriously enough. Before a valid position can be taken, one must first fully understand what the Y2K problem is, and how it might affect computers. Computer coding has always been constructed of zeros and ones, and the finished product is often called the computer language. Over the last thirty years, namely the early eighties, computer coding was much different than it is today. During this time, a string of zeros usually meant the end of a particular program. For these computers, which are very few, when the year 2000 arrives, the Central Processing Unit, or CPU, will determine that the zeros in the year 2000s date as the end of the software, and the computer will crash. This only makes up a very small percentage of the computers that will be affected by the Y2K problem, the others being the more modern computers that still are not compliant with the year 2000s date. These computers, unlike the earlier, primitive ones, would not recognize the year 2000 as the date in which the software stops functio ning, but instead as the year 1900. This is due to the fact that many date systems are set up using only two numbers, so for example, 01 would be read as 1901, because these computers are still set in the 20th century. Some argue that, because the computer would not crash, and simply believe the date was 1900, the Y2K problem is not a major dilemma; the vast majority of computers would still be fully functional, so fixing the problem doesnt require so much urgency. The problem could be fixed after the year 2000, so panic is unnecessary. This is obviously not the case, when you think about all of the computers that run on dates. Almost all of the systems that run schedule-keeping programs will be adversely affected if this problem is not fixed. What about the telephone company? What would happen if you were on the telephone at the date change? What about Travel agencies and package delivery systems? These questions remain unanswered, and will stay that way until the year 2000 arrives . The Y2K problem is very serious, but it is causing many more problems than simply computers. There are radicals supporting every viewpoint. Some people who are worried about the Y2K problem are withdrawing all of their money from banks, and stockpiling their houses with months worth of food, while others simply fail to acknowledge the Y2K problem. Others are actually trying to get rich off perhaps the biggest problem in computers short history. There are numerous fake, overpriced, and overrated Y2K survival kits on sale for ridiculous prices. Imagine what would happen if Y2K did cause major problems, what would the radicals do then? While it is obvious that many are over-preparing for this potential upcoming problem, the ones that are paying no attention to it may be in danger. NBC news stated that withdrawing money from banks is actually a bad idea, as many banks have already converted to Y2K compliant software, but having necessary items such as a radio, batteries, a flashlight,

Surface Chemistry free essay sample

It is the phenomenon in which a substance is uniformly distributed all over the surface. Difference between adsorption and absorption: Absorption (i) It is the phenomenon in which a substance is uniformly distributed throughout the bulk of the solid. (ii) It is a bulk phenomenon. (iii) The concentration is uniform throughout the bulk of solid. Adsorption (i) The accumulation of molecular species at the surface rather than in the bulk of a solid or liquid is termed as adsorption. (ii) It is a surface phenomenon. (iii) The concentration of adsorbate increases only at the surface of the adsorbent. 7. 8. Sorption: When adsorption and absorption take place simultaneously, it is called sorption. Enthalpy or heat of adsorption: Adsorption generally occurs with release in energy, i. e. , it is exothermic in nature. The enthalpy change for the adsorption of one mole of an adsorbate on the surface of adsorbent is called enthalpy or heat of adsorption. We will write a custom essay sample on Surface Chemistry or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page 9. Types of adsorption: Get the Power of Visual Impact on your side Log on to www. topperlearning. com 2 a. Physical adsorption or physisorption: If the adsorbate is held on a surface of adsorbent by weak van der Waals’ forces, the adsorption is called physical adsorption or physisorption. . Chemical adsorption or chemisorption: If the forces holding the adsorbate are as strong as in chemical bonds, the adsorption process is known as chemical adsorption of chemisorption. It is highly specific (ii) It is irreversible (iii) The amount of gas adsorbed is not related to critical temperature of the gas. Physical adsorption (Physisorption) (i) It is non-specific (ii) It is reversible (iii) The amount of gas depends upon nature of gas, i. e. easily liquefiable gases like NH3, CO2, gas adsorbed to greater extent than H2 and He. Higher the critical temperature of gas, more will be the extent of adsorption. (iv) The extent of adsorption increases with increase in surface area, e. g. porous and finely divided metals are good adsorbents. (v) There are weak van der Waals’ forces of attraction between adsorbate and adsorbent. (vi) It has low enthalpy of adsorption (20 – 40 kJ mol-1) (vii) Low temperature is favourable. (viii) No appreciable activation energy is needed. (ix) It forms multimolecular layers. 11. (iv) It also increases with increase in surface area. v) There is strong force of attraction similar to chemical bond. (vi) It has enthalpy hea t of adsorption. High temperature is favourable. (viii) High activation energy is sometimes needed. (ix) It forms unimolecuar layers. Factors affecting adsorption of gases on solids: a. Nature of adsorbate: Physical adsorption is non-specific in nature and therefore every gas gets adsorbed on the surface of any solid to a lesser or greater extent. However, easily liquefiable gases like NH3. HCl, CO2, etc. which have higher critical temperatures are absorbed to greater extent whereas H 2, O2, N2 etc. re adsorbed to lesser extent. The chemical adsorption being highly specific, therefore, a gas gets adsorbed Get the Power of Visual Impact on your side Log on to www. topperlearning. com 3 on specific solid only if it enters into chemical combination with it. b. Nature of adsorbent: Activated carbon, metal oxides like aluminum oxide, silica gel and clay are commonly used adsorbents. They have their specific adsorption properties depending upon pores. c. Specific area of the adsorbent: The greater the spec ific area, more will be the extent of adsorption. That is why porous or finely divided forms of adsorbents adsorb larger quantities of adsorbate. The pores should be large enough to allow the gas molecules to enter. d. Pressure of the gas: Physical adsorption increases with increase in pressure. 12. Adsorption isotherm: The variation in the amount of gas adsorbed by the adsorbent with pressure at constant temperature can be expressed by means of a curve is termed as adsorption isotherm. 13. Freundlich Adsorption isotherm: The relationship between x and m pressure of the gas at constant temperature is called adsorption isotherm and is given by ? k P 1 /n (n ? 1) m Where x- mass of the gas adsorbed on mass m of the adsorbent and the gas at a particular temperature k and n depends upon the nature of gas and the solid x first increases with increase in pressure at low pressure but becomes m independent of pressure at high pressure. Get the Power of Visual Impact on your side Log on to www. topperlearning.

The significance of power relations in communication in social work The WritePass Journal

The significance of power relations in communication in social work Introduction The significance of power relations in communication in social work IntroductionPower relations in social workParadigm shift for greater effectivenessEffective communicationHindrances to effective communicationConclusionReferencesRelated Introduction Effective communication is important in all spheres of human activity, in the interplay between human nature or individual agency and society or social structure. In this regard, the informal interactions form the basis of social work and effective communication helps coordinators relate better with subjects (Koprowska, 2008). Social work refers to multi-disciplinary endeavours that seek to improve the quality of life and wellbeing of individuals, groups or communities through interventions on behalf of those afflicted with poverty, real or perceived social injustices and violations on their human rights. Interventions could be through such mechanisms as research, direct practice, education, policy and community organizing (Trevithick, 2010). Social influence and/or control are concepts that refer to the means through which people’s feelings, thoughts, behaviour and appearance are regulated in social systems. This is achieved mainly through socialization, the effect on one’s opinions, behaviour and emotions by others through conformity, peer pressure, socialization, leadership and persuasion (Trevithick, 2010). Through this, individuals identify with the social system’s values and norms and thereby acquire stake in the maintenance of these norms and values. This ability to influence the behaviour of people is defined as power (Bar-On, 2002). Disparities in power between a social worker and the service user often result in the entrenchment of discrimination, oppression and non-involvement in practice. This paper explores the significance of power relations in communication in social work and contribution to the discrimination and oppression and ways in which this can be challenged including enhanced pa rticipation and involvement, especially through effective communication. Power relations in social work Social work is inherently political and is therefore all about power and, thus, it is essential that social workers understand the effects of power within the structures in which they work and the society overall (Bar-On, 2002). The term power is often used interchangeably with authority which is perceived as legitimate by the social structure, the patterned social arrangements present in society that both emerge from and determine the actions of individuals (Bar-On, 2002). The sociological examination of power is concerned with the discovery and description of relative strengths, whether equal or unequal, stable or subject to change. Given that it is not innate, and that it can be granted to others, power can be acquired through the possession or control of a form of power currency which include: formal authority delegated to a holder of a position (legitimate power); authority derived from particular skills or expertise (expert power); capacity for the application of negative influences such as threats and punishment (coercive power); as well as the ability to offer rewards and therefore to wield power over subjects (reward power); and the ability of the power wielder to attract others and build loyalty (referent power) (Bar-On, 2002). Lukes (1974), in developing the three-dimensional model of power, argues that power is socially and culturally located with the culturally patterned and socially structured behaviour or practices of groups or institutions significantly sustaining the bias in the system far more than the series of individual actions. Thus, there is a latent contradiction of interests between those exercising power and those affected, whose real interests are excluded. This argument challenges the views based on the idea of collective consent fronted by Arendts communications theory and the Webarian view of legitimate power which dispel the view that there is potential for powerlessness in social interactions. This has implications for social work including the view that social workers exercise power though in many instances are unaware of the wielded power, and that it is essential to examine the position of social workers as it may affect what they see as their role (Bar-On, 2002). This scenario exacerbates powerlessness with a person (service user) agreeing to an action due to the social structure of power which places authority on the social position of the professional rather than on the agreement or consensus between the two parties. This is heightened in such instances as the use of coercive power inherent in the legitimate power of the social worker conferred by statutory legislation (Askheim, 2003). Experiments in psychology suggest that the more power wielded by an individual, the less they can take the perspective of others, implying that they have less empathy. It was also noted that decreased power is related to enhanced constraint and inhibition (Bar-On, 2002). Stereotypes and prejudices inherent in social structure and culture therefore remain unchallenged resulting in possible discrimination, oppression or exclusions of sections of society or individuals requiring service (Thompson, 1993; Trevithick, 2010). The post-modernist view of power fronted by Michael Foucault (1980) gives a central role to communication and knowledge in the understanding of power within society. The guiding principle of modernity reinforces existing power structures thereby increasing the status of professionals, placing value on professional knowledge and marginalising local or subjugated knowledge.   This focus is what is referred to as professional discourse (Foucault, 1980). This exclusion is a reflection of the critical power imbalance within societal structure, and the legitimization of knowledge demonstrating the link between the exclusion for professional discourse and oppression (Pease, 2002). Users of services or clients often feel that social work endeavours are, in this regard, inappropriate or insensitive to their needs. Social workers occupy a unique position in society working for both the service user and the good of society overall. This often results in tensions between loyalties to service users and to service agencies or public authorities. Often, social workers acknowledge feeling powerless in their dealings with service providers, though their statutory powers make them believe they are overly powerful. Herein, an interesting paradox arises in the dichotomy of power in which social workers are often considered as either ineffective or extremely forceful (Pease, 2002). The dichotomous view of power is often exacerbated within social work as a result of the opposing structure between the worker and the client which forces the worker into the powerful position, controlling and directing the course of action often in a one-dimensional framework, while the client is forced into the position of powerlessness (Askheim, 2003). This is evident in the fact that despite the decade-long adoption of the anti-oppressive practice theme to guide teaching and practice of social work, recipients of such practice (clients) have not been significantly involved in discussions regarding the development of such anti-oppressive practice (Pease, 2002). Paradigm shift for greater effectiveness There is need for social workers to understand their position within the prevailing power structures, as well as to understand why they feel powerless in their work (Pease, 2002). This would enable the challenging of structures that perpetuate oppression and the development of solutions that aid the combat of negative effects of power differentials on the users of service (Askheim, 2003). Differences in power have to be taken into account and new procedures introduced so as to improve communication and, therefore, relations which can then foster the effective conduct of social work within communities. The key to taking account of the power by social workers in their work and relations with service users is empowerment. This entails the redistribution of knowledge and the uprising of other forms of knowledge which have been disregarded and subjugated as opposed to focus on professional knowledge as the only legitimate form (Pease, 2002). This would require the shift from such modernist focus towards a more critical approach to challenge the dominant discourse and to question the connection between knowledge and power enabling the enhancement of influence through social work approaches that aim to foster social transformation and change. Through this, the inclusion of service users in social processes, professional discourse and development of practice is legitimized (Askheim, 2003). This offers a more realistic approach to the challenge of prevailing power structures that tend to perpetuate and enhance discrimination or oppression of service users incorporating various dimensions including the oppressed, as well as the social workers. In order for social work to learn from its relations with service users and organizations (service providers), it is essential for their greater involvement to ensure true empowerment, balancing between gains from expertise and the empowerment of individuals involved in various aspects of social work (Askheim, 2003; Pease, 2002). Empowerment would reduce the inequalities in power relations in social work as well as challenging consequent oppression and discrimination. It would also enable the formation of meaningful professional partnerships with community organizations allowing for learning from both experiences and expertise. For significant change towards empowerment, there is need for focus and emphasis on social processes which encourage social workers to listen to the stories of service users, externalizing them and thereby enabling service users to retain greater control of the management and overcoming of the problems (Pease, 2002; Thompson, 1993). Focus is on the service user and the objective is their enablement to identify their own needs and solutions within the wider social context, rather than seeking to fit a pre-formed and set social model with its embedded ills (Askheim, 2003; Trevithick, 2010). Effective communication Emphasis on social process and the stories and experiences of service users requires the employment of effective communication to foster social work relations and essential partnerships. Communication is undoubtedly vital, an important part of human existence and is at the heart of all social work, in dealing with people and their problems (Thompson, 2011). Its skilful use by social workers can be hugely beneficial in empowering service users as it has the power to ensure the promotion of their well-being and equality. The basis of social work is informal interactions enabling better relations with service users, with the requirement for their trust and comfort essential to success of endeavour (Koprowska, 2008). This is only possible through effective communication. Effective communication skill does not just refer to verbal skills but also includes proficiency in non-verbal communication skills, especially in instances where service users may have difficulty communicating their problem verbally (Koprowska, 2008). There is need for such skill in communication which can enable the service user to build up confidence, incorporate friendship and good relations (reliability and compassion), as well as enabling them to feel that their problems are addressed in sincerity enabling them to open up in discussions which enhances overall understanding and formulation of solutions to problems (Thompson, 2011). Hindrances to effective communication With a number of complicating factors challenging communication, it is no justification to avoid making an effort to engage in social interaction. This would amount to the perpetration of discrimination and hindrance to the effectiveness of social work (Koprowska, 2008). There are various ways in which difficulties in communication tend to arise. First and most obvious is anxiety, the feeling of discomfort attendant to the lack of awareness of what is expected in a particular situation. This can lead to lower concentration and increased tension which hinders effective communication. The assumption of similarity is another hindrance and occurs often unintentionally, based on a lack of knowledge or awareness, when operations follow norms and rules of culture which are not universal and which may not be appropriate in other contexts (Thompson, 2011). Another hindrance to effective communication and similar to the assumption of similarity is ethnocentrism. This is based on distorted cultural assumptions and the belief that ones culture supersedes all others. The power dynamic in this case is significant hindering relations and interactions. Stereotyping and prejudice is also a significant hindrance to effective communication with rigidly held views and prejudgment hindering interaction and connection (Thompson, 2011). Other impediments include variations in language, misinterpretation of non-verbal communication often due to variations in cultures, as well as disabilities which among other difficulties hinder effectiveness of communication and interaction. To tackle these challenges and impediments, it is essential that root causes are identified early and dealt with before they significantly affect social interactions and outcomes of social work endeavours (Koprowska, 2008). Knowledge and skill in communication are closely interrelated with skill dependent and drawing upon knowledge, while knowledge is broadened and deepened through practice, ideally the application of skills. Building of skills ought to be premised upon the building up of knowledge (Thompson, 2011; Trevithick, 2010). Among essential skills for effective communication is the ability to tune in to various communication situations in varied contexts; as well as, sensitivity to potential difficulties and hindrances so as to enhance capacity for response and their prevention. There is also need for a balance between anxiety and complacency, being able to recognize potential difficulties but also making sure that anxiety is checked (Trevithick, 2010; Thompson, 2011). Conclusion Herein, the complexity of power has been demonstrated especially in light of social relations inherent and essential in the conduct of social work. For social workers to take issues of power into account, it is essential that three factors be considered: They must be aware of their power both within the social service structure and with regard to the power balance between them and the service user. This benefits them in enhancing their empowerment and approaches to practice. Secondly, empowerment is essential with the service user central to the process of change, and social workers facilitating, not directing the change. Reasons for feelings and powerlessness need to be addressed rather than being overridden through legitimate power in authority or expert power in knowing whats best. Third, there is need for social workers to take responsibility for their power acknowledging and valuing power differentials rather than viewing them as barriers to empowerment. These need to be incorporated in practice so as to enhance and encourage inclusivity in the social service structure, allowing for continuous critique and analysis. The development of effective communication skills for employment in effective social work requires the development of appropriate skills but also necessitates knowledge of issues involved that can enable a social worker to deal with challenges attendant to interactions essential in social work. Knowledge, unlike the other sources of power which can be used positively and negatively, can, however, also be used in a transformative way.    References Askheim, O., 2003. Empowerment as guidance for professional social work: an act of balancing on a slack rope. In: European Journal of Social Work, Vol. 6, No. 3, pp. 229-240 Bar-On, A., 2002. Restoring Power to Social Work Practice. In: British Journal of Social Work, Vol. 32, pp. 997-1014 Foucault, M., 1980. Power / Knowledge: Selected Interviews and other Writings: 1972-1977.’ London: Harvester Press Koprowska, J., 2008. Communication and interpersonal skills in social work (3rd ed.) University of York. Exeter: Learning Matters. Lukes, S., 1974. Power: a radical view. London: Macmillan Pease, B., 2002. Rethinking Empowerment: A Postmodern Reappraisal for Emancipatory Practice. In: British Journal of Social Work, Vol. 32, pp. 135-147 Thompson, N., 1993. Anti-Discriminatory Practice. The Macmillan Press Ltd.: London Thompson, N., 2011. Effective Communication: A guide for the people professions, p. 83. Palgrave: Hampshire Trevithick, P., 2010. Social work skills a practice handbook. Open University Press: Berkshire

Global Marketing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Global Marketing - Essay Example Many multinational corporations target customers from different parts of the world. It is imperative for marketers to customize their advertising efforts depending on the global market they are targeting. People from Europe have different taste than American customers. Global marketing has increased in popularity during the 21st century. Marketers today are using a wide variety of tools and techniques to reach the global masses. One of the most popular tools that global marketers are using to send messages to customers is the internet. The internet is a very effective marketing tool because marketers can run campaigns through the internet at lower costs in comparison with traditional media such as the television. Another advantage of the internet for global marketers is that anyone around the world can gain access to a website by typing in the URL. A lot of global marketers are taking advantage of the trend of internet surfers visiting a few times per day social media websites. The l argest social media website, Facebook, is estimated to have one billion users by the end of 2012 (Purdueexponent). The users on Facebook account for one-seventh of the world population. Another popular method global marketers use to reach the masses is television commercials during major sporting or social events. During 2012 global marketers paid up to $4 million for a 30 second ad during the Super Bowl (Yglesias, 2012). An important factor that global marketers must take into consideration is the culture of the country the firm wants to penetrate. The over 200 countries around the world have different cultures, thus marketers have to adapt their marketing campaigns to meet the taste and preferences of the global customers. Consumer Behavior Consumer behavior studies how individuals, groups, and organizations select, buy, use, and dispose goods, services, ideas, or experiences to satisfy their needs and desires (Kotler). To understand consumer behavior markers have to spend time an d resources doing market research. Consumer behavior varies depending on the age, race, and gender of the person among other factors. Companies from all industries must pay close attention to consumer behavior. Companies that are able learn about the consumer behavior of its target market are usually more successful. Understanding consumer behavior is a very challenging task. â€Å"Consumer may say one thing but do another.† (Kotler). Investing money to understand consumer behavior can be very beneficial because it can increase the total sales of a company. Time and experience are two factors that can positively influence in the efforts of companies to learn about consumer behavior. There are different stages of the buying process of customers. The six stages of customer behavior are: problem recognition, information search, evaluation of alternatives, purchase decision, purchase, and post purchase evaluation (Udel). Customers often change their purchasing behavior during the ir lifetime. The taste of teenagers, adults, and senior citizens are much different. The income capacity of a consumer influences their purchasing decisions. Many multinational corporations invest millions of dollars in marketing in order to attract customers. The fast food industry invested in 2010 $4.2 billion in advertising (Philpott). Advertising has the effect of creating interest of customers in goods and services. Many consumers are impulsive buyers. The use of discounts and specials is often used by the retail industry to attract customers. It is important for businesses to obtain customer retention. Based on Pareto’s rule 80% of a firm’s sales comes from 20% of its customers. Another way to increase customer retention is by