ENTREPRENEURSHIP, ENTERPRISE, AND ETHICS Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

ENTREPRENEURSHIP, ENTERPRISE, AND ETHICS - Essay Example I enjoyed reading about the accomplishments of John Patterson and his decisions that led the company in a specific direction. The paper is a quick yet detailed biography of Patterson’s, and inspires in terms of strategic decisions. Formatting is good and so is works cited page, but in-text referencing is erroneous. The paper is a detailed description of patent law that saved Farnsworth and gave him credit for his accomplishment. The author has mentioned all necessary facts. However, the presentation of the paper is not very impressing, as the writing has not made considerations about correct formatting. Referencing has not been done correctly. Page numbers are missing. Quite impressive information about Ruth and Eliot’s achievements is found in the paper. I loved reading about how Ruth gained the idea of creating a Barbie with changeable outfits. The presentation of information is correct, but the formatting of the paper is bad. No page numbers, no headers, and incorrect

Economic Indicators' Impact on Different Stock Categories Research Paper

Economic Indicators' Impact on Different Stock Categories - Research Paper Example While every indicator is an important measure of a facet of the economy, do all of them influence the stock markets equally? Hence the importance to know is which of these indicators influence the stock markets most, and probably more importantly which economic indicators most influence which types of stocks. For an investor, knowing which key economic affect the stock prices most can be of paramount importance, especially if they are in the stock market for the short-term. Different families of stocks provide different returns, which means that different investors, based on their appetite for risk, will opt for different investment strategies for which type of stocks to keep in their investment portfolio. This means that a â€Å"one-size fits all' theory on economic indicators affecting the stock prices may not be particularly relevant. Hence the need to identify whether (or not) the same set of economic indicators similarly influence the stock prices of small cap stocks as for lar ge cap stocks. Finally, a revelation from research that the small cap stocks are indeed influenced differently and/or by different economic indicators than those for large cap stocks, could have significant implications for governments - especially in formulating their economic policies with regard to small cap companies and even start-ups in the country. 2 Literature Review Stock markets depend a lot on the economic activity in the country. The health of the economic activity is presented through the economic indicators. Several studies have therefore been done on the linkage between stock markets and macroeconomic variables. While some studies have focussed on industrialised and developed economies others have focussed on the developing economies. Also, while some studies have attempted to see the impact of one macroeconomic variable on the stock prices, others have used two or more variables to see the link between macroeconomic variables and stock markets. Some of the economic i ndicators that influence stock prices as suggested in various studies include: Inflation, Unemployment, Interest Rates, Exchange Rates, Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Industrial Production, M2 Money Supply, and so forth. The subject of how economic indicators influence stock prices or stock returns has been studied regularly over the years. Ibrahim (1999) found that macroeconomic forces have systematic influences on stock prices via their influences on expected future cash flows. Chakravarty (2005) also viewed that stock exchange prices are highly sensitive to fundamental macroeconomic indicators. Mehr (2005) observed that the effects of public policies on economic growth can be measured by the increase in stock exchange prices. Some of the other researches to have been conducted on studying the link between one or a combination of several economic indicators and stock markets are Feldstein (1983), Thorbecke and Coppock (1995), Chang, Yeung, & Yip (2000), Sellin (2001), Boyd, Hu & Ja ganathan (2002), Tessarotis (2002), Bernanke & Kenneth (2005), Desislava (2005), Vygodina (2006), Maskay (2007), Bartolini, Goldberg & Sacarny (2008), Mahmudul & Gazi (2009). These studies have dealt with the subject with different approaches - from considering one of the economic indicator’s effect on stock market to considering a bunch of up to 25 economic indicato

European Central Bank Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

European Central Bank - Essay Example Inflation is a rise in the price of goods and services within an economy which results in a decline in the purchasing power of every subsequent unit of currency and this causes a loss in the real value of exchange within an economy. The main measure of inflation is the Consumer Price Index which provides an indication of the price level of consumer goods and services which are purchased by households, business firms, the government as well as the rest of the world (in case of an open economy). The CPI in the United States is defined by the Bureau of Labor Statistics as â€Å"a measure of the average change over time in the prices paid by urban consumers for a market basket of consumer goods and services.† As per the current happenings within the German economy, the prices of goods and services naturally saw a hike due to the holiday season; this period mostly witnesses an increase in demand of goods and services which is met by an almost equivalent amount of supply. In order t o understand the price indices of an economy, the CPI can be understood because it helps to measure the level of increase in the prices of goods and services within the German economy, which is now being maintained at a 2.3% increase. However, this is better than the 3% that it had risen to. Most governments, especially in the European zone, had been able to recover well from the financial crisis that took place world over in 2008-2009 but the repercussions of that are lingering on as inflation in the same economies.... German consumer prices nonetheless, harmonised to compare with other European Union countries, showed a rise of 2.4 percent on the year in December, down from 2.8 percent in the previous month. The German economy took to cutting down interest rates, a primary step undertaken by any economy in the world in order to slow down the persisting amount of inflation. The resulting inflation indicates the rise in general prices for typical German consumers, and consumers investing within the economy of Germany. This entire process works according to the demand pull theory according to which interest rates within the economy need to be cut down in order to counter inflation. If the government is able to increase the rates of interest being charged on commodities being sold within the economy, then it will have a way of getting back financial resources. Low interest rates within the German economy have put more borrowing power in the hands of the consumers. Interest rates refer to the rates at which a borrower is able to borrow money in order to have greater purchasing ability. Since loans and smaller debts can be taken from the European Central Bank at lower rates, consumers have been able to increase their purchasing powers and have been thus causing the economy to slow down considerably. Due to increased spending by the consumers, the economy has witnessed a growth and expansion which has almost led in the demand outpacing the supply. The holiday season witnesses a peak in consumer shopping and indulging in goods and services more than any other period because of increased and extremely affordable tours and travels. If the demand rises faster than the supply within the economy

Why did the U.S. government target Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945 Research Paper

Why did the U.S. government target Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945 - Research Paper Example Why did the United States choose to bomb Japan, and what factors led to the targeting of these particular cities, and the consequential high loss of human life? One argument for this use of deadly force is that the United States wanted to end the war with Japan quickly, before the planned invasion which was to occur a few months later. The bombs acted as a show of strength, as well as devastating the resources of the cities that were targeting and dealing a severe blow to the morale of the Japanese people. Understanding the factors that influenced the nuclear attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki is important, as the world is currently in a nuclear age, where many countries have nuclear capability but other countries do not. Additionally, understanding the behavior of the United States, and what influenced the decisions that occurred during this period is crucial, as the United States currently exists as the primary world superpower. This essay discusses the factors that drove the United States to use nuclear weapons on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, with the focus that these attacks were focused on the nuclear weapons in Japan, rather than the citizens. How are nuclear weapons currently perceived? Nuclear weapons are extremely powerful, and have the ability to decimate cities, destroying buildings and killing people with no prior warning and no method of defense (Krieger 2003, 3) The devastation that occurred from Hiroshima and Nagasaki

Robert Frosts The Road Not Taken Essay Example for Free

Robert Frosts The Road Not Taken Essay Robert Frosts THE ROAD NOT TAKEN talks about the everyday choices that one makes while traveling down the road of life. In the first stanza the speaker introduces the poem by saying Two roads diverged in a yellow woodThis is interesting because it is suggests that there are two actual roads, as opposed to figurative roads. Then the speaker goes on to say And sorry I could not travel bothThis is one of the most powerful lines in the poem; because no matter whom the reader is they will relate to the feeling of regret, and sadness over a missed opportunity. When one reads something that they are able to connect with the piece of work then becomes that much more meaningful. And be one traveler, long I stood And looked down one as far as I could To where it bent in the undergrowth. These last three lines in the first stanza are almost comical, because they paint such a clear picture of human nature. You as a reader can actually see yourself standing at the cross roads of life; trying to foresee what obstacles and opportunities you will have, as a result of the decision you are being forced to make. But try though you may, you will never really know for certain what the outcome of your decisions will be. In the forth and fifth line of the third stanza the speaker says Yet knowing how way, leads on to way I doubted if I should ever come back. This line verbalizes a sense of nostalgia that the speaker has, as well as a sense of determination not to look back at the same time; this is quite interesting and could only be the result of meticulously chosen words. In the forth (final) stanza the speaker again relays a felling of nostalgia, when he says I shall be telling this with a sigh Somewhere ages and ages hence. The speaker closes the poem with a sense of pride and accomplishment by announcing Two roads Diverged in a wood, and I- I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference. By ending this poem the way that Robert Frost chose to, it is apparent that he is trying to send a message to his readers, through the lips of the speaker. This message is one that everyone should not only read, but  embrace. The message is to follow you instincts and listen to your conscience, and you will be led to a future that is filled with happiness and success. Far too many people are afraid to find their own way, and are much more content going along with the crowd. But in the end it is those that follow their hearts that end up where the want to be.

Consideration of baseline in EIA

Consideration of baseline in EIA Consideration of baseline in EIA Chapter one: Introduction 1.1 EIA and Baseline Environmental impact assessment, EIA was developed in order to provide decision makers with an understanding of the environmental consequences of a proposed development. It provides information on the nature and extent of impacts arising from the construction and operation of proposed projects. This is presented in environmental reports that contain information required by the EIA directives. These required information may include; a description of the proposed project, an outline of main project alternatives, description and assessment of aspects of environment likely to be significantly affected by the proposed development and a description of measures established to manage significant adverse effects on the environment. A key element of EIA is to provide adequate description of the current environment condition, otherwise referred to as baseline assessment. They are often referred to as the environmental setting, existing conditions, affected environment, background environment, environmental conditions, environmental receptors, and baseline data (Shepherd, 2006, Canter 1996, Eccleston, 2001). The need for its consideration in EIA is a topic raised by several researchers (Wood 2003, Glasson et al., 2005, Carroll and Turpin 2009, Lawrence 2003, Morris and Therivel 2009, Wathern, 1992). For them baseline can be regarded as the main support for the EIA process, which identifies existing environmental conditions and relevant potential areas that may be affected by a proposed project. The importance of baseline is also manifested in EU regulations. It is moreover set in EIA directives (schedule 4, part 11) that the current environmental conditions of the study area, its possible future evolution and tech nical deficiencies/ limitation experienced while carrying out the study should be reported in an environmental statement. Studies (Wathern 1992, Glasson et al., 2005; Andre et al., 2004, Wood, 2007) revealed that despite its roles and benefits in the EIA process, the aspects of baseline considered remains substandard. Questions on the definition, methodology, specific aspects to be considered, remain an issue. 1.2 Contextual review Baseline is a preliminary step in the EIA process which is implemented in the UK through the Town and Country planning (SI 1999 N0 293) Regulations 1988 and the subsequent 1999, 2000, 2006, 2008 amendments. Theories have revealed though it is recognized that collection of appropriate and sufficient, baseline data can be time consuming and expensive. In spite of this, the value of this information can produce a significant outcome on the quality of the overall EIA process. 1.3 The research This research intends to address the subject of baseline in EIA process. It will look specifically at the influence of baseline on the EIA process. It begins by describing the origins and principle of EIA with particular reference to its legislative beginnings, secondly, the issue of good quality baseline and effectiveness of EIA is discussed, research approach is then outlined and the findings of the studies are presented and analysed. The findings of the research are considered in comparison with the literature, with reference to its more substantive purposes before drawing conclusions and possible recommendations. Moreover, there has been limited investigation to date on baseline and how it influences the out come of EIA process in practice. It is therefore expected that this dissertation would add to the knowledge on baseline and make recommendations on baseline implementation in EIA process. 1.4 Aim Overall aim is: To determine how baseline influence EIA process decision making and promote the importance of baseline in EIA process. 1.5 Research questions and Hypothesis In order to pursue the aim identified above, a set of research questions have been developed which when answered enable the research aims to be achieved. Responding to this question is the focus of the dissertation. Questions to be answered include: How are baseline currently addressed in ES? Does adequate baseline study influence EIA decision making process? For this research the hypothesis has been formulated that: Good baseline quality contributes to effectiveness of the EIA process The formulation of this hypothesis was influenced by the EIA regulation requirement for baseline information and also limited knowledge on baseline influence in EIA decision making process. 1.5 Dissertation structure Based on the research aims and hypothesis the structure of the dissertation is divided into seven chapters and is set as follows: Chapter 1: Introduction The dissertation begins with an introductory part to set out an overview of EIA process, explaining how the baseline fits into the EIA process. The research aim is then identified and hypothesis is formulated and justified for the purpose of this research. A brief summary of the research approach and contents of subsequent chapters are then revealed. Chapter 2: Methodology This chapter outlines the research methodology, the parameters of the literature search, selection of relevant information and research limitations. Provides details of evaluation framework developed to analyse the chosen environmental statements, relevant planning files and interview approach and structure. Chapter 3: Background Following the methodology, this chapter sets out a literature review as the backbone of this research. The structure of the literature review is based on EIA and baseline. It starts by examining the concept of EIA and it various steps; attention is based more on how baseline fits into the overall EIA process. Chapter 4: Criteria for effective EIA process and good practice baseline This chapter sets out the first stage of the methodology. It explores the terms used in developing the research hypotheses i.e. effective EIA and good quality baseline in order to develop a checklist for the review. This was achieved by information from various researchers who have studied EIA effectiveness and good practice baseline and also notes from existing guidance documents and existing EIA/EIS review criteria. Chapter 5: Presentation of result and analysis This chapter Outlines presentation of results and analysis of the interviews and reviews of EISs. Details on results and findings of the 3 research are then discussed, linking the theoretical perspectives and frameworks discussed to that of practice. Chapter 6: Conclusion Finally, the conclusion is drawn whilst connecting the research hypothesis and literature review to the content of the dissertation, limitation is outlined and recommendations are drawn. Appendices: Relevant appendices of supporting information follow a bibliography of information sources. Appendix A lists acronyms used in this research, Appendix B lists EIA directive requirements of information to be presented on the ES. Appendix C lists the summary of the four statements reviewed, a summary of the interview together with their individual responses are attached as appendix D. A summary of the findings of the review are then attached as appendix E. 1.7 Relevance of the research topic to course of study The course of study Environmental assessment and management deals with natural resource management and planning. Specifically, management of the environment and project coordination. EIA was introduced as an environmental management tool its purpose and principle plays an important role in planning system of UK environment. It involves assessment of a specific environment to identify impacts and develop measures of controlling the impacts that may occur as a result of a proposed development in order to enhance the environment. Baseline is an initial step in the EIA. There have been numerous questions on how EIA achieves its primary purposes. In this case, it is important to evaluate baseline which is one of the initial steps to highlight how it helps achieve its purposes. In general, the course aims to provide student with an understanding of principles methods and procedure in EAM. EIA is central to environment assessment and management. Hence, it is evident that the research topic is relevant to the course of study and its proposed aim is expected to be achieved. 1.8 Overview In summary, the EIA regulation indicates that the data required for any project which is likely to generate significant environmental effects must be assessed and stated in an environmental statement. In addition, the influence of baseline on outcome of EIA is limited. This research sets out to address this issue. For this purpose, research aim and hypothesis have been developed, to set out research questions in order to identify a focus of the research. A methodology adopted for this purpose is exposed in the next chapter. Drawing generalization from research investigation and providing information for subsequent replication of studies, suggestions are made about the types of information to include when describing baseline conditions in this research.

Natural Language and Computer Programs :: Computers Technology Technological Essays

Natural Language and Computer Programs Anyone who has tried to explain the workings of a computer, or even a VCR, to an older relative has a very good idea of why natural language operation is a goal of computer science researchers. Simply put, most people have no desire to learn a computer language in order to use their electronic devices. In order to allow people to effectively use computer-based systems, those systems must be programmed to understand natural language – the language a regular person speaks – and respond in kind. Most natural language-processing systems break that task down into two parts, comprehension and production. Some systems, like the search engine ask.com, where the user types in a whole interrogative sentence instead of a few terms to search for, are programmed to take commands in English and so have comprehension as their goal. Others, particularly those designed to pass the test proposed by Alan Turing in which a computer must pass as a human in conversation with an interrogator, are designed to simply produce realistic responses, sometimes without bothering to break down the input at all. For the purposes of simplicity, most natural language programs operate through typed input and printed or on-screen output, since speech recognition and production are just complications at this point and can always be integrated later, simply by having the program convert the speech to text and vice-versa. By working only with typed input, a whole host of obstacles to understanding are avoided. People, when speaking, have accents, slur words, change sentence structure mid-thought, stick in â€Å"like† anywhere they want, and do many other things that make everyday speech much less straightforward than the slightly more formal process of typing. Even typed, however, an English sentence is not an easy thing to parse. An example of this difficulty can be seen in the sentence â€Å"I left a job for my wife†. Out of context, it is impossible to determine which of two possible meanings is the correct one. Did the speaker leave a job (i.e. quit) because of his wife, or did he leave a job (i.e. let one remain) for his wife? A computer must be able to refer to the context around such a sentence in order to extract the meaning from it.