Computerized Financial Mangement System

Chapter I Introduction Nowadays one of the major lending businesses that exist today is money lending. It has entered different institutions like banks, government, lending companies and even cooperatives which they offers the kind of business in order for them to gain more profit in an easy way and also to help client by giving loans for special purposes. As the world moves in a globally competitive electronic place, there’s a lot of competition in a technological way but many infrastructure and establishments were still not upgrading their own computers to the latest modern features.They just assure their clients satisfaction by giving a quality service and a friendly environment to every client which is not good enough. Majority of the lending companies nowadays are still using a manual transaction which were indeed a time consuming problem. More on these facts there is also a hard time in computing monthly dues, and balances that made the data not that accurate. This happe ns because of manual calculations in the computer. The proponent is very much concerned in conducting proper studies and implementation of better processes.The proposed system is for Sifcor Lending incorporation by using an automated transaction solution for lending and financial management to improve the current existing method of manual operations. With the advancement of the technology most of the tasks are done in an instant to be competitive nowadays we must experience what really the technology can do. 1. 2 Background of the Study The Sifcor Lending Inc. is a company who let out money for temporary use on condition of repayment with interest. Like other existing loan transaction process Sifcor is also manually operated.They give loans to those who will comply to their requirements, one of these is that an applicant should have shown monthly pay slip and income for the past months or a proof of managing any business. Due to manual operations of the company they are having a har d time in recording and calculating the loans of their clients in a fastest way, but this can be lessen by the use of computer system which could facilitate any operations at faster and easy way. The company only uses their computers for documentation and client’s record keeping purposes and not for their system.Were in fact they are just using Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel that are usually used Microsoft Office work today and not merely doing the exact specific task they wanted to happen, in this case using of their computer does not help to make their process faster and accurate. Manual calculations were indeed a burden and consume a lot of time on the part of the employees. By developing a Finance Management system the company will have more time in giving emphasis to their other works and responsibility in the company. 1. 3 RationaleNew technologies have become integral to lives of children and young people in the home, industry, business, leisure and communication w ithin a global society. The internet and other digital and information technologies are powerful tools, which open up new opportunities for everyone. As technology grow, so do the demands for better services. The primary reason why the proponent pursue this study is to provide financial management system that will provide the proponent the best chance to apply the knowledge they learn in their years of studying at AMA Computer College.It also gives them opportunity to enhance and practice their ability and creativity. The proposed system will organize the process in which the school conducts its business. The main reason why the proponent came up to an idea of implementing Finance Management System for Sifcor Lending Inc. The proponent proposed a system which can develop a finance management system that will integrate it with the present technology to make transaction easier, faster and user friendly to the employees that will answer the needs of the locale. 1. 4 Information Technol ogy innovationSystem integration is the process of bringing together the different component subsystem into one system and ensuring that subsystem s function together as a system. In information technology, system integration is the process of linking together different computing systems and software application physically or functionally, to act as a coordinated while. In today’s generation technology plays a vital role in our society. The computer technology changes the way we communicate. SIfcor Lending Inc. adapts a system that helps them in managing its company The proponent will be using different kinds of software to develop the proposed system.The technologies used to develop the system are programming language such as Microsoft Visual Basic 6. 0 and My SQL for the database. The proponent will also use Adobe Photoshop CS5 in creating the graphics for the system. This software’s will help the proponent to easily finish the proposed system with the help of their function. 1. 5 Statement of the Problem This section stated the problem being encountered in the existing system. 1. 5. 1 General Problem The general problem as seen by the proponent is to generate a Financial Management System for Sifcor Lending Inc. that will provide an easier, faster and a useful way of lending. . 5. 2 Specific problem The purpose of the study is to generate a Financial Management System for Sifcor Lending Inc. that will provide an easier, faster and a useful way of lending. Specifically, this should be able to solve the following: 1. 5. 2. 1 How to develop a system that will computerized the payment process of SIFCOR Lending Inc. 1. 5. 2. 2 How to develop a system that will enhance security of client records/information? 1. 5. 2. 3 Computation of loans is time consuming and inaccurate due to the use of manual system in computing the loans of the clients using the calculator, paper, and pen. 1. 5. 2. Hard copies of client information are vulnerable to theft, alte rations and misplace. 1. 6 Objectives of the Study 1. 6. 1 General Objective The general objective of the study is to develop a Financial Management System for SIFCOR Lending Inc. 1. 6. 2 Specific Objectives 1. 6. 2. 1 To develop a system that will computerized the payment process of SIFCOR Lending Inc. 1. 6. 2. 2 To develop a system that will enhance security of client records/information? 1. 6. 2. 3 The system will develop a quick and accurate computation of loans by making a system that will automatically compute the loans of the client. . 6. 2. 4 Securing client loans and information. * To develop a system that is secured and free from unauthorized person. 1. 7 Scope and Delimitation 1. 7. 1 Scope The focus of this study is mainly directed towards the design and development of Finance Management for Sifcor Lending Inc. which includes the following procedures1)automatic data calculations 2) loan management; 3)balance inquiry; 4)monthly dues notices; 5) list of clients with approv ed loans; 6) and a loan ledger for the customers payments and balances. 1. 7. Delimitation Transaction such as passing of requirements, loan application, signing of contract, issuance and printing of receipts are no longer included in the system. These are done manually and they need physical appearances of the borrowers. 1. 8 Significance of the study The significance of the study is to give the lending company owner and employees a knowledge and awareness about the new and smart way of using computerized system in their financial management which until at present they are still using manual method.This study will simplify the employee’s workload by automatic calculations of their client’s loans and will minimize their time spent. Doing this automation they could able to finish their other important task timely. 1. 8. 1 Educational The proposed study will serve as a basis of learning for all Information Technology students, this will give an understanding to the Finan cial Management for Lending Companies and will inspire students to develop and make research with the same concept. This will also serve as a reference or related study for future researchers. 1. 8. 2 SocialThe proposed system is socially significant in a way that it is user friendly and is convenient to use. The completion of this research gave the proponent the opportunity to develop his own confidence as he was able to express himself and his ability as an Information Technology student with numerous people who submitted themselves for an interview. 1. 8. 3 Economical The use of the proposed system will help Sifcor Lending Inc. to reduce paper based system like using many ledger cards and to lessen administrative works because the system will automatically compute the clients loan and balances on the expected date of payment. . 8. 4 Technological The proposed system is technologically significant to the proponent and also to the user it’s because with the use of new improv ised system in the computer. The proposed system will help the user to update their knowledge about computer and system use for the benefit of their financial management in Lending to be fast and easy. 1. 9 Definition of terms These terms are defined and included in this chapter for the readers to understand the whole documentation easily. Lending. Disposing of money or property with the expectation that the same thing (or an equivalent) will be returned. Financial.A branch of economics concerned with resource location as well as resource management, acquisition and investment. Simply, finance deals with matters related to money and the markets. To raise money through the issuance and sale of debt and/or equity. Client. Customer  of a  professional  service provider, or the  principal  of an  agent  or  contractor. Chapter II REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURES AND STUDIES This section contains materials, summary and excerpts of researches and related literatures about the proof of the current study about the proposed solution the proponent deems relevant to the conceptualization of the whole researches. . 1. 1 Foreign Literature According to the thesis of Kristine Mae Mallari, Carissa Garcia the development of development of technology through the years has enabled us to do more with less effort. (Ralph M. Stair; 1999) As the technology continues to advance, computer is becoming more part of our lives. Computers are everywhere at work, at school, and at home. Many daily activities now may involve the use of computer maybe because computers are used in almost every field and profession like education and office works to perform large number of computer application.According to the thesis of Kristine Mae Mallari, Carissa Garcia the database system makes faster for every institution. For the mere fact that instead of doing things manually, with the use of computer technology everything is done faster (Dan Gurewich; 1999) Database management system (DBM S) consist of a collection of interrelated and set of function to access data. DBMS provides an environment that is both convenient and efficient to use in retrieving and storing information. It is also consist of programs for storing, retrieving and manipulating large amount of data.With this article the proponent decided to use a database in storing thee large amount of information taken from the clients profile. It can also enhance manual way of record keeping by having a database. An article found to be linked at http://www. nos. org/htm/sad1. htm, stated that System is created to solves problems. One can think of the systems approach as an organized way of dealing with a problem. In this dynamic world, the subject system analysis and design mainly deals with the software development activities. System life cycle is an organizational process of developing and maintaining systems.It helps in establishing a system project plan, because it gives overall list of processes and sub-pr ocesses required developing a system. 2. 1. 2 Local Literature With the development of the computers, almost half of the business establishments, commercial companies, schools and computer center in the Philippines are completely automated – airlines, hotels, supermarkets and department stores are computers to provide instantaneous and accurate data. And it seems that companies are now taking notice of society’s changing lifestyle. Computers are being compared with the human brains.Like the Brain the advised if, the computer can take data and process it, it can store the data either in raw form or in processing result and can deliver the raw processed data to the outside world demand. Computer works in a very fast way that you can ever imagine. It involves almost everything especially in work like business or school or we can just say a very large population of people. Our country here in the Philippines we can say that we can compete because new technology from other countries has flowed to us. Imagine running a school with large population of students and how will you handle it.Also it affects the kind of environment we have. Here in our country not all business people can provide the needs of their companies. But still with the help of other technology we create a strategy on how will we go on with this kind of problem. People create a system that supports either big or small company. It will be reasonable because these systems meets the requirements of the company and best solutions are suited both environment and networked environment. 2. 2 1 Foreign Studies According to the thesis of Gascon,Arcely M. , Pamintuan, Joseph Carlo C. In an Advance Data System Corporation entitled information and Billing System supports medical Billing Systems, 2011 stated that â€Å"Medical Billing System allows the practice to manage all patient billing and accounting seamlessly and efficiently. It is fully integrated with the EMR, appointment system and charg e capture. Taking advantage of the information flow, it allows quick and easy billing while ensuring a high degree of accuracy and traceability. The system interfaces with leading electronic clearinghouses for electronic claim submission and tracking.With a comprehensive set of reports, it presents all practice management information in an effective manner for analysis and tracking. According to the thesis of Franco,George Ferman M. , Mariano Jr, Romeo C. , Yambao,Mary Grace M. , Automation of the system prove that it generates aped and accuracy, lessen the errors done by manual means and eliminate wasted time that will result for a better service that will cater the company and the employee as well. According to the thesis of Grona, Rusell, manlapaz, Joana Marie M. Business use data processing for such tasks as payroll preparation, accounting, record keeping, inventory control sales analysis, and the processing of bank and credit card account statements. Engineers and scientist use data processing for a wide variety of application, including the processing of seismic data for oil and mineral exploration, the of new product designs, the processing of satellite imagery, and the analysis of data from scientific experiments. Data processing is divided into two kinds of processing: database processing and transaction processing.A database is a collection of common records that can be searched, accessed, and modified, such as bank account records, school transcripts, and income tax data. 2. 2. 2 Local Studies According to the thesis of Elsie Punsalan, Criz Angel Garcia, stated that â€Å"to maximize the usefulness of information, business must manage it correctly, just as it managed other resources manages need to understand that costs are associated with the production, distribution security, storage and retrieval of all information. Although information is all amount us; it is not be taken for granted.In the unpublished thesis entitled manila central cooperative accounting System with Decision Support System by Bautista Catherine and Dela Cruz Juliet A. , Septerber 1996 stated that: â€Å"Computerized Accounting System ffor MMC. Intended to replace the existing manual system in order to make a accounting office work more efficient and beneficial to the members of the employees as well as to the cooperative†. In the unpublished thesis entitled Billing System for Castro Maternity and General Hospital by Maglonzo and Cruzon, 2005 stated that: The system is a major leap forward in computing. It makes computation easier and more fun to use with many user interface and performance enhancement. It will get more work in less time. Professional in every field is discovering knowledge to meet thus change†. Chapter3 3. 1 Theoretical Framework of the Study The Theoretical framework of the study is used to show how the existing and proposed system works. It also illustrates how the proposed system evolved from the existing system. 3. 2 Con ceptual Framework of the Study Figure 3. 2 illustrate how the system flows.Conceptual framework is a group of concept that are broadly defined and systematically organized to provide a focus, a rationale, and a tool for the integration and interpretation of information. 3. 3 Research Setting The proponent conduct a research in SIFCOR LENDING INVESTOR INC. who are also the intended beneficiaries of the proposed system. SIFCOR Lending Investor Inc. is located at Sindalan, City of San Fernando. 3. 4 Research Population The Research Population composed of the company’s employee who gives information that helped the proponent in developing their system.Respondents answered question which expressed their perspectives about the current and proposed system that helped the proponent to further analyze the flow of the system. The Research Population of the proponent composed of the employees and as well the consumers, who are the intended beneficiary of the proposed system. 3. 5 Resear ch design the proponent aim is to satisfy the needs of the users of the study by providing the users with the reliable information which could be a great help. It also discusses the methods uses by the proponent to come up with he procedures on how to identify existing problems in the current system and the procedures on how to develop the proposed system. 3. 5. 1 Descriptive Method This method of research is a fact-finding technique with sufficient meaning. It can help the proponent understand how the current system is supposed to work and determine the comparison and analysis of the existing and the proposed system. It is a way of gathering information to complete the study. This shows the activities that will observe for the development of the existing system.Descriptive Research, also known as statistical research, describe data and characteristics about the population or phhenominon being studied. Descriptive research answer the question who, what, where, when, and how. Althoug h the data description is factual, accurate and systematic, the research canno9t describe what caused a situation. Thus, Description research cannot be used to create a casual relationship, where one variable affect another. In other words, descriptive research can be said to have a low requirements for internal validity. The description is used for frequencies, averages and other statistical calculations.Often the best approach, prior to writing descriptive research, is to conduct a survey investigation. Qualitative research often has the aim of description and researchers may follow-up with examinations of why the observations exist and what the implications of the finding are 3. 6 Methods of Research Used This type of research, as the definition implies, will helps the proponent to collect all the necessary information needed for the implementation of the project. To provide an accurate, fast, efficient and a more convenient way for applying loans is the objective of this project . . 6. 1 Creative Method This research method implies the stylistic approach and aesthetic concept of human experiences that the proponent must acquire in order to develop the proposed system. The proponents used this method in such a way that they made sure that the system would look enticing to its users yet serve the same expected funntionality. 3. 6. 2 Library Method 3. 6. 3 Internet Research Method 3. 7 Data Gathering Techniques and Instrument 3. 7. 1 Observation. The observation of current operating procedures is another fact-finding technique.Seeing the system in action gives the proponents an additional perspective and a better understanding of the system procedures. A personal observation also allow them to verify the statements made in the interviews and determine whether procedures really operate as they are describe. Through observation, they discover that neither the system documentation nor the interview statements are accurate. It provide important advantages as the d evelopment process continues. 3. 7. 2 Interview. The proponent personally interviewed some of the respondents.Personal interview is usually the most expensive fact-finding technique because it is a costly time consuming process. An interview is more familiar and personal than a questionnaire. Respondents who are unwilling to put critical or controversial comments in writing might talk more freely in person. 3. 7. 3 Questionnaires. The proponent used this method because it gives the respondents an opportunity to provide inputs and suggestion. This methods helps distinguish the viewpoint of the respondents who are mainly concern in collecting valuable information about the existing system.Questionnaire construction is critical to the success of a survey. 3. 7. 4 Evaluation These are forms with criteria that evaluate the performance of the existing study. These forms are given to the users that will evaluate the existing system with respect to their efficiency, reliability and effectiv eness. With the help of evaluation form, the proponent were able to analyze the feasibility of the proposed system based from the ratings given by respondents. 3. 8 Analytical tools 3. 8. 1 Ishikawa Diagram 3. 8. 2 Data Flow Diagram Is a graphical representation of the â€Å"flow† of data through an information system.DFD’s were introduced and popularized for structured analysis and design. DFD’s show the flow of data from external entities into the system, showed how the data move from one process to another, as well as its logical storage. The proponents considered the following: In creating the DFD, where does the data that passes through the system come from and where does it go, what delays occur between the inputs and outputs. Using DFD, the proponents can easily analyze the flow of the system that will enable to describe what part of the processing needs to be prioritized. 3. 8. 3 Visual Table of ContentIt is a pictorial means of preventing data. It helps the proponents to display the information needed. It illustrates present systems and describes a proposed system to the user, programmer or operations. 3. 8. 4 Input – Process – Output IPO Model  is a  functional model  and  conceptual schema  of a general  system. An IPO chart identifies a program’s inputs, its outputs, and the processing steps required to transform the inputs into the outputs. Along with a definition, many times you will be asked to draw a diagram to show the stages. It is essential that you learn the diagram below, along with the direction of information flows.You need to be able to reproduce it exactly. 3. 8. 5 Flow Chart 3. 8. 5. 1 Program Flow Chart A program flowchart is a diagrammatic representation that will illustrates the sequence of operations to be performed to get the solution of a problem. The flowchart is a means of visually presenting the flow of data through an information processing systems, the operations perform ed within the system and the sequence in which they are performed. In this lesson, we shall concern ourselves with the program flow chart, which describes what operations are required to solve a given problem.The program flow chart can be likened to the blueprint of a building. As we know a designer draws a blueprint before starting construction on a building. Similarly, a programmer prefers to draw a flow chart prior to writing a computer program. 3. 9 Method Used in Developing the System 3. 9. 1 System Planning. To create a project basic thing to do is to create a plan. The system analyst determines and identifies the planning phase. Identify meaning, to identify the project goals and needs of the system. 3. 9. 2 System analysis. This phase refines project goals into defined functions and operation of the intended application.It analyzes end-user information needs. This is used by the proponent in integrating the lending system to understand and document in detail the business nee ds and the processing of requirements of the proposed system. 3. 9. 3 System Design. A sample structure of the entire study is created in the phase and all necessary data are gathered. It describes the describe features and operations in detail, including screen layouts, business rules, process diagrams and other documentation. The output of this stage will describe the new system as a collection of modules or subsystems.This is used by the proponent to design the proposed system based on the requirements defined and decisions made during the analysis. 3. 9. 4 System Implementation. Modular and subsystem programming code will be accomplished in this phase. Unit testing and module testing are done in the phase by the proponent. This phase is intermingled with the next in that individual modules will need testing before integration to the main project. It is used by the proponent to build, test, and install a reliable system with trained ready to benefit as expected from use of the sy stem. 3. 9. 5 System operation and support. . 10 Justification of Method Used. 3. 11 Method for Product Evaluation. 3. 11. 1 Technical Feasibility. Determines the verification and proving of system accessibility and availability in the local market of the system requirement peripherals such as software and hardware. 3. 11. 2 Operational feasibility. This method determines if the proposed system gives the satisfactory result and output for its target users and market, whether there will be problems in applying and implementing the system in its operational environment in determining the operational feasibility. 3. 11. 2. 1 Efficiency.The ability to complete the result without wasted energy and effort. 3. 11. 2. 2 Reliability Refers to the dependability of the system in performing its intended functions and giving satisfactory results. 3. 11. 2. 3 Effectiveness The degree to achieve the usability of the system and its ability to solve problems encountered of the locale’s curren t system. The Likert’s was applied to the qualitative data collected because its appropriate in evaluating the feedback obtained from respondents. A Likert’s scale measures the extent to which a person agrees or disagrees with the question. Scale| Range of Mean| Verbal Interpretation(VI)| 5| 4. 1-5. 00| excellent| 4| 3. 41-4. 20| Very Satisfactory| 3| 2. 61-3. 40| Satisfactory| 2| 1. 81-2. 60| Fair| 1| 1. 00-1. 80| Poor| Table 3. 1 Likert’s Scale 1. Mean. This was used to determine the average rating of each criteria that was set in the proposed system that the respondent evaluated. The formula for getting the mean is as follows: M= f(X1+X2+X3+†¦Xn) N Where: F=refers to the frequency (f) or the number of times that a given number (x) was chosen by the respondents. (X1 + x2 + x3 + †¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦. Xn) or any of the numerical ratings (5,4,3,2,1) representing the evaluator’s rating n= represents the sample size of the total number of respondents. . Weigh ted Mean. The weighted mean was used to describe the perception of the respondents concerning the proposed software. To determine the weighted mean, the proponent used the following formula: E f (X1+X2+X3+†¦Xn) N Where: Ef(X1+X2+X3+†¦Xn) = summation of means of all criterion. N= Total number of respondents 3. 12 Statistical treatment of Data This study is essential in order to make used of data in right form by computing them mathematically. The proponent used z-test, this is use by the proponent to make comparative studies between two samples. (See to Appendix M) 1. Formula for Frequency Mean (FM): (X1 + X2 +X3 + †¦ Xn)FM = f _________________________________________ n Where: f = product of the frequency and a particular numeric rating for a given criteria. n = sample size represented by the total number of respondents (X1 + X2 +X3 + †¦ Xn) = any numeric rating 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 representing the evaluators rating option for each given criteria. 2. Formula for Wei ghted Mean (WM): ? f(X1 + X2 +X3 + †¦ Xn) WM = _______________________________________________ N Where: ? f (X1 + X2 +X3 + †¦ Xn) = the summation of all frequency mean N = total number of criteria 3. T-Test Computation __ __ t =X1 – X2 n1-1(S1)2+ (n2-1)(S2)2n1+ n2-2 1n1+1n2 3. 13 System Development Cost The following formulas are used in computing the total cost in developing the proposed system. Salvage value = (Total Hardware Cost/Life Expentancy)*(Development Period) Months per year Annual Depreciation Cost = (Total Hardware Cost-Salvage Value) Life Expentancy Monthly Depreciation Cost = (Annual Depreciation Cost) Months per year Hardware Development Cost = (Monthly Depreciation Cost * Development Period) Software Development Cost = (Monthly Depreciation Cost * Development Period) Labor Cost = (Developer’s Fee per Month * Development Period)KWh used by Computer = (number of watts * number of hours per month) 1000w KWh used by Electric Fan = (number of watt s * number of hours per month) 1000w KWh used by Light = (number of watts * number of hours per month) 1000w Total Monthly Power Consumption = KWh used by Computer + KWh used by Electric Fan + KWh used by Light Total Basic Charge = Generation Change + Transmission Change + System Loss Change + Distribution Change + Supply Change Total Development Cost = Hardware Cost + Software Cost + Labor Cost + Miscellaneous Cost + Total Overhead Cost

John Updike`s A&P Essay

â€Å"A & P† is first-person narrative revealing the delusively ordinary story related by the checkout boy in the grocery store named in the title. In â€Å"A & P† the first-person narrator is defined largely by his tone and vocabulary. Updike molds his protagonist through the use of specific writing style, thus Sammy is casual and colloquial. The customers in his grocery are referred to as â€Å"the sheep† the commonness of which has been one day disturbed by the appearance of a sexually uninhibited, young ladies in bathing suits. Surveying the three girls as they wander the aisles, Sammy describes the girls, and here Updike’s style is prolifically intoxicated with the description of the girls with the flights of slang language, trying to show why these teenagers deserve the sacrifice: chunky with â€Å"a sweet broad soft-looking can†, breasts, on the other hand, become â€Å"two smooth scoops of vanilla†, the shoulder bones become â€Å"dented sheet of metal tilted in the light†. Besides, Sammy’s narration is lard with the discourse markers that make his flow of narration softer and folksy: â€Å"kind of jerk†; â€Å"she kind of led them†; â€Å"she had sort of oaky hair† The colloquial style is expressed not only in the vocabulary of the protagonist but in the violated sentence structures. Updike’s uniqueness lies in his process of detachment. Coming in adjective or adverb modifiers rather than main sentence elements, the ironic posture emerges without affecting plot: â€Å"and a tall one, with black hair that hadn’t quite frizzed right, and one of these sunburns right across under the eyes, and a chin that was too long–you know, the kind of girl other girls think is very â€Å"striking† and â€Å"attractive† but never quite makes it, as they very well know, which is why they like her so much† Not rare are also broken structures like: â€Å"She had on a kind of dirty-pink–beige maybe, I don’t know–bathing suit†, or â€Å"The sheep pushing their carts down the aisle–the girls were walking against the usual traffic (not that we have one-way signs or anything)–were pretty hilarious. † The story is presented through the present-tense narration. Such choice of grammar technique imparts narration the sense of immediacy, makes it a chronicle of one event, so that reader feels as if he himself is a witness of that event. â€Å"IN WALKS these three girls in nothing but bathing suits†, â€Å"The girls, and who’d blame them, are in a hurry to get out, †¦ †, â€Å"Lengel sighs and begins to look very patient and old and gray. † Updike’s striking adjectives appear often: â€Å"kind of dirty-pink–beige maybe†, â€Å"chubby berry-face†, â€Å"long white prima-donna legs†, â€Å"the cat-and-dog-food-breakfastcereal-macaroni-rice-raisins-seasonings-spreadsspaghetti-soft-drinks-crackers-and-cookies aisle†; Their intrusiveness increases and besides literary irony, they produce an ambiguity of intent or author’s attitude (hence diction) in his story, which is matched somewhat by unexpected metaphors or visual comparisons, like â€Å"two smoothest scoops of vanilla†, â€Å"outside the sunshine is skating around on the asphalt outside the sunshine is skating around on the asphalt†, â€Å"his back [was] stiff, as if he’d just had an injection of iron†. All of these figures, although appropriate functionally to the text, often call attention to themselves and piece out Updike’s style. Updike, John (1962) Pigeon Feathers, and Other Stories. New York: Alfred A. Knopf.

Homeostatic Balances Essay

Homeostasis is maintaining an Internal Balance. If we fail to maintain an internal balance every system inside of our body will be disrupted. Hypertension To explain to a 65 year old man with an 8th grade education, that he has hypertension, I would begin explaining, in a manor I believe that he would understand, what hypertension is and how it can affect him. ‘Hypertension is when your blood pressure is high on a daily basis. Blood pressure is considered to be high when the reading is 140/90 or higher. When your heart beats harder your blood pressure rises. High blood pressure can be caused by an imbalance in the Circulatory System and can lead to many other health problems including stroke and heart disease. Treatments that can lower blood pressure include lifestyle changes and medications. Lifestyle changes that can lower blood pressure are, but not limited to, diet changes, exercising and relaxation. There are a very wide variety of different medications that can be taken for hypertension.’ The homeostatic imbalance that causes hypertension is something that would raise blood pressure such as stress, being overweight, older age, ect. The organ system involved with hypertension is the heart. The feedback system cannot maintain homeostasis because the heart is working too hard to get the blood pressure to a normal range. The consequences for not maintaining homeostatic balance can be major health problems associated with the heart such as stroke and heart disease. Reference: Some of the information I found was in a YouTube video- Hypertension Explained Clearly! 1 of 2 @ http://youtu.be/OmKVteeuQj0 Diabetes To explain diabetes to a 13-year old middle school honors student who has just been diagnosed with it, I would begin with what diabetes is. ‘Juvenile-onset/Type 1 diabetes is a disease that is caused by your body not being able to produce or use insulin. For unknown reasons your body’s immune system, as well as others with type 1 diabetes, attacks various cells in the body which causes a deficiency of the insulin hormone. You will now need to monitor your food intake and check your blood sugar levels.’ The  homeostatic imbalance that causes type 1 diabetes is a metabolic disorder where the body does not produce enough or produces too much insulin. The organ system involved with diabetes is the pancreas, but the entire body can be affected by diabetes. The feedback system cannot maintain homeostasis because the body cannot create enough, or creates too much insulin. Even though the receptors are telling the control center that the effector needs to produce more i nsulin the body cannot create it or creates too much of it. Consequences of not maintaining homeostatic balance include problems with eyes, heart, kidneys, feet, nerves and even the reproductive system. References: http://diabetes.webmd.com/guide/type-1-diabetes http://www.webhealthcentre.com/Healthcorners/diabetes_organs.aspx

Spiritual Beliefs as a Factor in the Performance of Nursing Staff Research Paper

Spiritual Beliefs as a Factor in the Performance of Nursing Staff - Research Paper Example These questions are significant to nursing practice; in order to meet the demands of the population and increase both patient chances of survival and patient satisfaction the role of spiritualism as a factor considered motivational has been studied to evaluate its efficiency. Following a literature review nursing practices have been identified which contribute to better patient outcomes and advanced education has been noted to increase the ability of the nurse to provide spiritual care. Those nurse’s with more experience and those working at a higher grade have a greater understanding of spirituality (Noble, & Jones, 2010). The value of communication with non-verbal cues is necessary and spiritual care must be guided by the patients themselves. Communication has been identified as a strong factor in the ability to deliver appropriate spiritual care in Milligan, 2004; McSherry, 2006; and Ross, 2006 by Noble and Jones. A lack of time is also considered a barrier to providing spi ritual care and the need for better education and training would be welcome by many. Spirituality among nurse’s is related positively to education levels and those having a Master’s degree. It is also related to 11-19 years clinical experience and having received spiritual education and training (Wu, & Lin, 2011). In Lind, Sendelbach, & Steen, (2011) nurses were described as feeling unprepared and unable to meet the spiritual needs of patients. Patient satisfaction surveys in a Minnesota cardiovascular progressive care unit determined that meeting the spiritual needs of patients in the unit was an area that needed improvement. The unit first analyzed the 2001 Joint Commission of 2001Press Ganey national inpatient data which indicated that there is a high value placed on emotional and spiritual care while patient’s are hospitalized. Second, there is a very strong correlation between meeting a patient’s emotional and spiritual needs to their overall satisfa ction and third, this is area in most hospitals that provides opportunity for a significant improvement. Spiritual distress has been named as an appropriate nursing diagnosis by The North American Nursing Diagnosis Association and it is a recommendation of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing that spiritual care is included in all education programs. Despite this fact education and training seems to be lacking to many nurses. Only a small number of nurses feel that they are able to meet the spiritual and emotional needs of patients. The unit began offering a two hour voluntary education program to the nurses with time paid and which 37 or 70% of the nurses attended over the period of a year. The instructor who taught the class was from a local faith affiliated University and the hospital Chaplain participated in each training class. This education program included concepts such as defining spirituality, what spiritual care is, what prevents spiritual care, when to call th e Chaplain and nursing interventions for spiritual care. Sessions were based on literature and staff surveys. The unit implemented a new survey, the HOPE survey, in order to provide spiritual assessment. The survey was taken from a teaching tool that was developed for Physicians. Likert type survey scores which measured patient satisfaction with spiritual and emotional care went up from 65% and 62% to 74% and 71% the two months following implementation of the training program. Pastoral care consultancies were increased from 16 to 27 per month and spiritual care plans were increased from 1 to 4 per month. The success of this program in the

Business opportunities in the leisure goods and activities industry Essay - 5

Business opportunities in the leisure goods and activities industry - Essay Example This research will begin with the statement that leisure goods and services are one of the sectors with the fastest level of growth in the UK. However, Business Link further points out that spending on recreation and leisure is discretionary, varying in line with disposable income, and that the sector responds quickly to recessionary pressures. It is for this reason that expenditure in the industry is highest where consumers are able to devote time and money to leisure activities and goods. Business Link also indicates that the key drivers for this sector include: inexpensive air travel; the aspirations for higher lifestyle and increasing disposable incomes Increasing opportunities in countries experiencing increases in disposable incomes but where the sector is still in the developmental stages, for example, Eastern Europe. This industry has the ability to increase employment, attract revenue and therefore drive domestic development in the UK. The paper indicates that the total expenditure increased every year over the six-year period. However, the percentage increase varied. The total expenditure increased by 3% in 2003, 4.2% in 2004, 3.7% in 2005, 2.5% in 2006, and 4.1% in 2007. The food and drink the sector with the highest expenditure accounting for 41% of the total expenditure in 2002 and 2007. This sector was followed by family outings and holidays with 23% in 2002 and 25% in 2007. The culture sector was the sector with the lowest expenditure showing a mere 4% in 2002 and falling to 3.5% in 2007.

Critical review and evaluation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Critical review and evaluation - Essay Example ) have the major task of presenting the financial statements which can fulfil the requirements of all the users of financial statements and not only the investors. This report is presented by CFA Institute as guidance to these standard setting bodies to incorporate some major changes in the existing set of financial statements with respect to the investors. The following discussion holds a critical approach as to whether the proposals suggested under this report by CFA Institute are considered and incorporated in the most recent advancements made by FASB and IASB. CFA institute provided this proposal to protect the stake of investors whether equity or debt investors. The aim of the institute was to prepare the financial statements that can achieve the objectives of the investors. However, the financial statements do provide the necessary information upon which the investors can take their decisions, but CFA institute failed to provide more investor specific information which should be included in the financial statements by FASB and IASB. From the above proposal, CFA institute wanted to secure the equity investors as they have the last claim on the assets of the company after creditors and other suppliers of finance. CFA institute holds the view that the equity investors should have the most recent information regarding the off-balance sheet transactions, contingencies and other claims to which they are liable but they are unaware regarding their amounts and magnitude. Similarly, those assets, which act as revenue generating units should also be come on the face of financial statements to provide the equity investors specific information about these matters. If the existing standards are taken into consideration, it can be noted that the amounts in respect of contingencies, off-balance sheet transactions etc are still not provided as the standard setting bodies believe that these areas still lack of measurement due to which they cannot be recognized.

Total SA Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Total SA - Essay Example The investors generate dividends from their investments. Investors receive dividends based on the prior year’s net income performance. With higher net income, the investors will automatically receive higher dividends (Warren, 2009). Further, the investors can also generate gains from the selling of their TOTAL SA investments (Crosson, 2011). If the investors are able to sell their investments at a bid price that is higher than the investors’ cost of investing in the TOTAL SA stocks, the investors generate gains. When economic depression or unfavorable economic constraints crop up, the investors may be persuaded to sell their investments in TOTAL SA investments at prices at an amount that is lower than the investment price. When this occurs, the investors generate stock exchange losses (DuBrin, 2009). TOTAL SA Company’s structure in relation the organisation’s goals, aims and objectives. The TOTAL SA organisation structure fittingly enhances the accomplishm ent of organizational s goal, aims and objectives (Daft, 2011). With more investors, the amount of investment is higher. The investors’ money plus TOTAL SA Company’s use of long term loans increase the amount of assets. The TOTAL SA Company maximizes the total assets to generate revenues (Weetman, 2006). Further, the stockholders’ investments and loans ensure accomplishment of the company’s goal, aims and objectives (Ferrrell, 2010). The company is able to establish oil and natural gas exploration development contracts in different strategic locations around the world. The cash inflows from loans and stockholders’ investments are successfully used to refine petrochemicals. The same finance amounts are used to manufacture the chemical product needs of the TOTAL SA Company’s current and future customers (Nutt, 2010). Specifically, the TOTAL SA Company specicalises in selling elastomer-based products (Total, 2012). The company also sells adhesi ve products. Another major product of TOTAL SA Company is classified as electroplating items. The bulk of the company’s profitable products falls under the petroleum market segment. The investments are used to foster company’s trading and shipping of petroleum chemical finished goods (products). Moreover, the investments and loan amounts are used to sell the finished goods (Baumol, 2009). The raw petroleum extracts are processed into finished goods. The TOTAL SA Company finished goods include the top selling Liquefied Petroleum Gas products. Another finished product is home heating gas. A third finished product is asphalt petroleum products. The fourth finished good type, asphalt, is used in the paving of the highways and smaller roads. The fifth finished good classification, lubricants, is a very popular lubricating product group (Total, 2012). Further, the investments and loans are used to generate a big share of the global energy market segment. The funds are used t o realize generating an increase of 2.5 percent production output every year (Total, 2012). The funds are used to maximize the company’s scarce asset resources. The scarce resources are used to expand the oil production facilities (Fabozzi, 2011). The company continues to set up new oil production facilities in new oil fields. The investments and loans are used to quickly set into motion cost reduction activities. With cost reduction, the

The Impact of the Automobile on Society Research Paper

The Impact of the Automobile on Society - Research Paper Example From the discussion it is clear that in 1895, during a newspaper interview, Thomas Edison, an American inventor, stood at the edge of time and gazed into the horizon. They saw a future of unbounded potential in which the horseless carriage would reign. They added that it would only a question of time before their prophecy happened. At the time, many would have dismissed Edison as an idle dreamer. Carriages driven by horses were the main means of transportation then. As one would suspect, these were pricey and a preserve of the rich. Today, over a century after Thomas Edison pronounced their prophecy, the automobile is the dominant means of movement. This paper examines the impact of the automobile on society at a global scale. By the term "automobile" is meant widest scope to include public transit and heavy commercial vehicles.This paper declares that  the modern car was born in 1886 when Karl Benz, a German inventor, built the Benz Patent-Motorwagen. However, the car had to wait until the early 1900s to become widespread. Ford Motor Company’s Model T was one of the earliest cars to be produced en masse for the public. In the United States, cars rapidly replaced carriages and carts drawn by animals. Soon afterward, there were about ten thousand cars on American roads. It had taken much longer before cars were embraced in Europe and elsewhere in the world. The commencement of production of cars on a large scale by Henry Ford in 1914 ushered in an era of ever-increasing affordability for the automobile.

Inputs and Outputs Devices Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Inputs and Outputs Devices - Essay Example The essay "Inputs and Outputs Devices" talks about the various input and output devices used while working with computers and presents the overview of advantages and disadvantages of such devices. Computer output entails any type of information that is being provided by the computer after processing. An output device is a hardware piece that is used to display or output data which has been processed or has been stored on the computer. Examples of output devices are speakers, speech synthesizers, plotters, printers, and the Visual Display Unit. Once information has been fed to the computer, it is in electronic form. This information is in a form that can only be handled and understood by the computer, and not by human beings. The information will, therefore, need to be converted into a form that is understood by a user. This is mostly done in two ways: by printing out the information and by displaying the information on the visual Display Unit. If a user is using a machine with multimedia, he or she can have sound as an output. In this case, the sound is emitted through the speakers. These are all benefits and roles of having output devices connected to one’s computer.A peripheral device is defined as that which can be attached to a computer to increase its functionality. These devices are used in conjunction with the output devices. The output devices are used regularly by students to do their projects and assignments, and they also help to perform basic logical and arithmetic operations.

Explain the evolution of the portrait of the Arab in Modern Hebrew Essay

Explain the evolution of the portrait of the Arab in Modern Hebrew Literature Nation and nationalism in Haim Hazaz's 'The S - Essay Example Consequently, the formation of an independent state has produced a series of new conditions that have heightened the flourishing of Hebrew literary works in Israel in the not so distant past. While this narrative has frequently been recounted, the continuity between the development of Hebrew literature and the formation of the state has altered the historiographic viewpoint on the era (Band 2003). The perspective has been basically natural: the Hebrew literature and the Arabic identity are depicted as parallels maturing together. Credit is given to the pre-state literary works of Haim Hazaz and other established authors. Although it is customary to focus upon what appears to be the new attempts to provide expression to the developing reality of Arabic identity and statehood, the consequent reality is unfinished. Even when creating a literary narrative distantly, most scholars prefer to group the authors of a literary era together and afterwards interpret authors and literary works in dependently, mapping out their growth from time to time in their lives. This is perhaps the most logical means to address the diversity and evolution of artistic output (Band 2003). If we aspire to make sense of the contemporaneous nature of a literature in a particular period, how authors and spectators of different periods interrelate in reality, how social and political circumstances might have influenced them as a generation, we should delve deeply into the dominant themes, such as the evolution of Arab identity and nationalism in Haim Hazaz’s seminal work ‘The Sermon’. These initial remarks on the development of Israel literature present a fundamental perspective for this essay: an interpretation of how Haim Hazaz contributed substantially to the formation of the Zionist story, as well as the modern representation of the Arab identity and nationalism. Although a great deal has been written on the development of Zionism and Hazaz, there has been a lack of suf ficient evaluation of his important contribution in this vital project. Recognition is frequently given to his essay ‘The Sermon’, yet the unrelenting position of Hazaz in the heart of the literary period as the standard, well-liked author of the Labour Party, the major cultural and political strength of the state and the Yishuv in its initial decades (Band 2003), has not been acknowledged. This limitation is the reasonable consequence of the widespread historiographic prejudice that emphasises the revolutionary in each period to the abandonment of the general image of literary construction in any generation. Authors are part of the generation when they initially made a radical difference. Evolution of the Arab Identity and Nationalism in Haim Hazaz’s ‘The Sermon’ The portrait of the Arab in Modern Hebrew literature as shown in ‘The Sermon’ is a remarkable illustration of the Arab cultural and political development. To be examined in Haz az’s essay is the degree to which Modern Hebrew literature acknowledges Arab identity or distinctiveness. Particularly, to what level does Yudka’

Financial Statement Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4500 words

Financial Statement Analysis - Essay Example The Task III is an overall performance report with particular reference to effects of performances on market prices of each of the companies. Wal- Mart Stores Inc is largest organization in the corporate sector in the world. At present it is also the largest retailer, generating three times revenue of number two retailer France’s Carrefour SA. Wal- Mart originated in 1962 when its founder Samuel Walton and his brother J.L.(Bud) Walton opened their store in the city of Rogers in Arkansas. Its stocks began over the counter trading in 1970 and were listed with New York Stock Exchange in 1972. In US itself Wal- Mart has around 1500 discount stores, 1471 Super centers, 538 Sam’s club, and 64 neibourhood markets. Its business has now spread to 13 countries including Argentina, Brazil, China, Canada, Germany, Mexico, UK, and others. In all there are around 7800 stores in 14 markets, and they are serving more than 176 millions of customers in a year. The objective of Wal- Mart is to serve the customers at large with far reaching range of goods at cheaper prices. In words of Sam1 â€Å"if you think about it from the point of view of customers you want everything: a wide assortment of quality merchandize; the lowest possible prices; guaranteed satisfaction; friendly knowledgeable service; and a pleasant shopping experience. You love it when a store exceeds your expectations, and you hate it when a store inconveniences you, gives you a hard time, or pretends you are invisible.† These were the thinking of founders of Wal- Mart; and that’s the reason that Wal- Mart was bound to reach at a level of success where it stands today. Wal- mart is relentlessly indulging in social responsibility activities and that shows the commitment and responsibilities of Wal- Mart towards the society at large. Its environmental goals are to be supplied by 100% renewable energy; to create zero wastage through activities of its

Theory Nike Essay Example for Free

Theory Nike Essay Moreover , decentralization is a matter of degree, since all organizations are decentralized to some extent out of necessity. At one extreme, a strongly decentralized organization is one in which even the lowest-level managers and employees are empowered to make decisions. At the other extreme, in a strongly decentralized organization, lower-level managers have little freedom to make decisions. On the other hand, in a centralized organization, the decisions are made by top executives or on the basis of pre-set policies. These decisions or policies are then enforced through several tiers of the organization after gradually broadening the span of control until it reaches the bottom tier. Centralization is said to be a process where the concentration of decision making is in a few hands. All the important decision and actions at the lower level, all subjects and actions at the lower level are subject to the approval of top management. According to John R. Schermerhorn(2002) , â€Å"Centralization† is the systematic and consistent reservation of authority at central points in the organization. The difference between a centralized and a decentralized system of organization is that in a centralized structure all the decision making and authority are focused on the top tier of management. These few people are the ones that dictate company policy and make all the crucial decisions. A decentralized system, on the other hand, delegates authority throughout the organization and to all levels of management. Advantages of centralization include an organization’s ability to be able to keep a tight grip on all aspects of the business.

Formal Informal Social Support Systems Health And Social Care Essay

Formal Informal Social Support Systems Health And Social Care Essay Realising that it is the natural right that all those who labour should enjoy to the fullest extent the fruits of their labour the Colonial Government of the Gold Coast initiated a package for public service workers who went on retirement after serving in the public service for over 30 years, passed an ordinance as part of the reforms in the colony. That ordinance came to be known as CAP 30. The following category of workers were entitled to enjoy this package, Ghana Armed Forces, Police Service, Fire Service, Ghana Education Service, Ghana Health Service, Civil Service etc. However, by 1972 the law was amended to allow another body, SSNIT to take responsibility of some category of workers contribution towards their retirement. After 1972, employees of the Ghana Education Service, Ghana Health Service, and Judiciary Service amongst others were directly under the SSNIT Pension Scheme with the exception of the Security Services. The Social Security Pension Scheme was established under the PNDC Law 247 of 1991. The Scheme is administered by the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) to cater for Civil and Public Servants, Employees in the private sector, Professionals, Traders, Artisans, Farmers and also the self-employed. The Social Security Scheme is the only basic Social Security Scheme that insures a worker against the following contingencies: Old Age, Invalidity and Death. The worker contributes 5% of his/her basic salary and the employer adds 12.5% of the workers basic salary, making a total of 17.5% which is paid to SSNIT. The rate of Contribution for Self-Employed or Voluntary Contributor is 17.5% of declared income. It would interest you to know that Government Pension or cap 30 attracts a huge sum of money than the SSNIT pension which is relatively lower. This disparity in the pension administration has brought about workers agitation for fairness in their retirement benefits. In the public sector a person qualifies for full pension at the age of 60years and you must have made a minimum contribution of 240 months in aggregate but can voluntarily go on retirement at age 55years for reduced pension and must have made a minimum contribution of 240 months. As a result of ill-health one qualifies for invalidity pension. In that case you must have made contributions for not less than 12months in aggregate within the last 36 months and you must have been declared permanently invalid and incapable of any normal gainful employment by a qualified and recognized medical officer and certified by a Regional Medical Board on which a SSNIT Medical Officer is represented. Since 1957 when the country gained independence expatriate officers in the Ghana Civil Service opted to retire and many vacancies occurred. This created the opportunity for Ghanaians who were on pension to be re-engaged in the Civil Service on contract. These officers enjoyed their pension in addition to their remuneration as contract officers. However, in 1968, the Government of Ghana ordered the cessation of the payment of the pension package in addition to the salaries attached to the contract appointment. This measure obviously did not go down well with the affected pensioners who considered it a stab at the back and a breach of faith. ( Tachie-Menson, 2003). In Accra, a group of pensioners engaged the services of lawyers to fight their cause for them. They succeeded and thus the emergence of the Ghana Government Pensioners Association for Accra which also assumed a national status. The way was then opened for branches in all the regional capitals to register members and make payment of part of their monthly dues to Accra. In Wa the pensions Association was formed in 1986 to cater for retired workers in the municipality. Pensioners under the Government Pensions Association are over six hundred as the number keep dwindling due to death. Pensioner with the SSNIT, as at February, 2010 stood at one hundred thousand four hundred and fifty eight with a retirement rate of 0.65%. It was my doubt that some retired public service workers would live uncomfortable lives after long years of contributing meaningfully to mother Ghana as those kinds of assumptions, suggestions, and my personal experience of my aged parents that prompted me to undertake this proposal in this area. STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM There is a general perception out there that retirement from active service in Ghana renders one jobless and with nothing to do which often leads to frustration and early death in life if one does not plan life properly. This is attributed to the fact that people on retirement who do not plan well use their benefits to find shelter for themselves after which they end up living on their meager monthly allowance. It is claimed because most workers are not able to put up shelter during their working lives before they go on retirement. This has been the situation over the last decade and more and has rather impoverished retirees. Such claims are not hard to find in the municipality if one visits these retired workers at their homes. Therefore retired workers whose family members are not there to support them are left to their fate or are forced to put up with neighbours. It is also worrying to find frail looking pensioners go to their banks every fortnight to struggle for their allowance s. In some situations those incapacitated to the extent that they cannot make the journey to the bank would not have access to their money unless they prepare an authority note to be endorsed by the Association and countersigned by the Accountant Generals representative for the bank to effect payment, a process quite laborious. Calculation of retirement benefits of Government Pension which was originally based on the pension constant of 1/960th of ones terminal salary multiplied by the number of years served in months was reviewed in 1946 by the Harragin Salary Commission to 1/600th and has since been increased to 1/480th. The amount arrived at is spilt for 25% to be paid as gratuity and the remaining 75% as pension which is spread over 20 years and is payable monthly. On the death of a pensioner what is due him/her from the remaining period out of the twenty years is paid to his/her beneficiaries as commuted pension. (Tachie-Menson, 2003) For beneficiaries of a deceased pensioner to claim the unexpected portion of the twenty years pension there are three approaches towards that end:- (a)The nomination form filed with his Department while a civil servant in which he indicated his beneficiaries is the first to be used as authority for disbursement. However, the nomination forms can be revised at any time that the person wishes. (b)The will is the next authority to be used for disbursement, if it super cedes the nomination form. (c)In the absence of the two above, Letters of Administration prepared jointly by the head of the pensioners family on one side and the wife and children on the other, must be obtained from the Law Courts with which to claim the commuted pension. As the years roll by for inflation to set in adjustments are made to salaries by the grant of allowances in various forms to the basic salaries of Civil Servants. However, when allowances are added to the basic salaries to mitigate the effect of the rising cost of living, it does not reflect in the pension calculation. This prompts the Ghana Government Pensioners Association to enter into serious negotiations with the Government for pension to be increase. When the consolidated salary was introduced pensioners were left in the lurch. The Associations negotiating machinery was put to the test with the bargaining power of the Public Services Workers Union of which the Association is a Division; Government then consented to the grant of 50%. Therefore to address the issue of social support for the retired public sector workers in the municipality, it is important to know that the enormous concern of this essay is focused on the poor adoption of measures on the part of local authorities and community members to provide additional welfare resources and other social interventions to support the retired. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY: This research would give an in-depth knowledge of the formal and informal social support systems of retired workers and to know the plight of retired workers so as to come out with remedies to assist these aged citizens. It would also contribute to prepare would- be retirees to adequately plan for their future retirement. Furthermore, before a research of this nature is meaningfully carried out in the municipality of Wa, it is imperative to have some knowledge about what the area under study is made up of. OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY The objectives of the study are as follows: Specific objective: A. To evaluate the adequacy of available formal and informal support and welfare resources to the retired persons at the community level. The investigation will be directed toward the identification of social support systems that would meet the growing and changing needs of the retired. GENERAL OBJECTIVES: 1. To determine, in some Ghanaian communities, social support systems for elderly persons. 2. To study both support providers and the beneficiaries comprehensively in order to understand how poverty and the needs of the retired are distributed, and how they are dealt with in practice. 3. To determine the degree of success of formal interventions of support provision to the elderly. 4. To ascertain the social pattern of relief and support, and to draw the social implications of the existing and changing patterns so that appropriate and adequate social policies may be formulated. RESEARCH QUESTIONS: These specific objectives above will be framed around the following specific and general questions: How adequate are the formal and informal social support and welfare resources of retired public sector workers? GENERAL QUESTIONS: 1. What are the general cultural expectations about the retired person in the community and how are these changing? 2. What resources are available to them? 3. To what extent do retired persons avail themselves of the community resources and at what cost? 4. What factors encourage or discourage utilization of such resources? 5. To what extent do the resources available complement one another to meet the needs of the retired and what needs are left unmet? 6. What are the principles of reciprocity involved in these various support arrangements in the family and the community? LITERATURE REVIEW: In reviewing literature, the study will triangulate conceptual and theoretical frame work of the topic understudy. The operational definition of key concepts include the terms formal, informal, social support systems and public sector workers. I am interested in defining formal as the official government situation in the line of events. Informal means private and unofficial initiative. Social support system means social interventions to the vulnerable. My construct of these concepts is similar to other concepts that are in use. However, in the past Social welfare protection, in the form of insurance and assistance programmes, emerged in Europe in the 1800s in order to provide citizens with an economic safety net during periods of illness, economic hardship, and other shocks as discussed (Palacios Sluchynsky, 2006). Today, nearly every country has some form of social protection developed to provide economic support in times of need (International Social Security Association, 2005). Assistance comes in the form of old-age pensions, survivor benefits, family allowances or other supports. In Africa, the author suggests that social welfare programmes were originally developed in the 1950s and 1960s as a safety net for white workers (Dixon, 1987). Employer-based contributory pensions were the dominant model. Still today, these pensions primarily serve the wealthiest workers who live in urban areas and have secure careers in the public sector (Palacios Sluchynsky, 2006). Those who are excluded from these benefits are left to rely upon the traditional safety net of family aid, mutual support, and communal living. For example, in Kenya, the clan system has operated as a labour union world, pooling resources and providing extra support during vulnerable periods (Dixon, 1987). This informal system has eroded. However, as countries have developed and urbanized, sources of livelihoods have diversified, family sizes shrunk, and the population aged. Moreover, throughout sub-Saharan Africa, poverty has further destabilized households, changed demographic patterns and orphaned enormous numbers of children (UNICEF, 2006). Vulnerable populations face a social protection vacuum when both formal programmes and informal practices fail to provide the safety nets that families need to survive, even though social protection is a proven component in fighting poverty and responding to families overwhelmed by disease or other shocks (Barrientos DeJong, 2004; Bourguignon, Ferreira, Leite, 2002; Chronic Poverty Research Centre, 2005; Skoufias di Maro, 2006). Throughout Africa, social protection programmes could well be mechanisms that enable families to economically survive and help children reach their potential. The reality that social welfare schemes in Africa exclude more people than they cover, has been established (Dixon, 1987; Fultz Pieris, 1999; Taylor, 2001) and yet there are important reasons to revisit this topic. He argues that in the last decade, a growing number of countries have expanded or developed new programmes in an effort to reduce poverty as well as to invest in human and economic development. Evidence of the growing momentum around social protection schemes include the Livingstone Call For Action (2006) where thirteen Eastern and Southern African governments pledged to draft costed national social transfer plans within two to three years. In a related situation, the African Union is driving and supporting efforts to promote the development of better social welfare systems; while heads of states throughout the world, have committed to building, where needed, and supporting the social security systems that protects the aged (United Nations General Assembly, 2006). The purpose of this paper is to investigate the characteristics of existing social welfare policies in Ghana and countries throughout Africa. These policies are described and the characteristics of existing social welfare schemes are analyzed in order to facilitate dialogue on how governments, supported by the international community, can improve current welfare schemes and build new systems that are better aligned with the needs of vulnerable populations, in order to provide a meaningful social safety net. METHODOLOGY: In order to examine the characteristics of government and employer provided social support schemes to retired workers, the research must conduct an enquiry aimed at increasing knowledge based on facts. Therefore to achieve this, a systematic method and instruments of collating and collecting data should be used since the appropriateness of these methods and instruments to a large extent determine the validity and reliability of the data. Also the sample used should be a true representation of the population as well as the instrument utilized in the research. STUDY AREA The Wa Municipality is one of the oldest districts in the region, and the biggest of the nine districts. It is the capital town of the region. The estimated population of Wa Municipality for 2008 is 124,476 as against 105,065 in 2000, an increase of about19%. The population density of the area is 38 persons per square kilometers. It has about 32 communities. Because Wa doubles as the Municipal and Regional capital, it has a high population growth rate of 4% per annum with a greater proportion of the total population of the Municipality and the Region concentrated in it. Wa Municipality covers the Southwestern parts of the region. It stretches from longitude 1Ù’Â °40N to 2Â ° 45N and from latitude 9Â ° 32W to 10Â ° 20W. It covers an area of approximately 5899.30 square kilometers, which is about 32% and 2.56%of the region and the nation respectively. To the South, Southwest and Southeast, Wa Municipality shares common boundaries with Wa West/Wa East, Wa West and Wa East Districts respectively. To the north, Wa Municipality is bordered by Nadwoli District. It has more retired civil and public servants and also suitable in terms of providing sufficient sample sizes of retired persons. TARGET POPULATION The target population for this research is the retired civil and public sector workers in the municipality and their families. Retired civil and public sector workers are of two categories. The first category is made up of pensioners under Government Pension scheme and the second category is made up of pensioners under SSNIT Pension scheme. SAMPLE A number of samples will be drawn for the study. Unlike Census, where the entire population is covered by the study, sampling enables a researcher to study a relatively small part of the target population and yet obtain accurate and detailed data that are representative of the whole at a lower cost (Sarantakos, 2005). . The first sample of respondents will be made up of community members who are 60 years and above. The second respondents will be made up of family members, kin relationship and local authorities. SAMPLING PROCEDURE A snowball sampling procedure will be used. By this method a retired public sector worker is identified within the community and interviewed. This first respondent then leads the researcher to the next respondent who also falls with the target group. The process is continued until the required number of respondents is interviewed. CHOICE OF RESEARCH METHOD Considerable interest is shown in the choice of research methods to use in this research proposal. There is the quantitative data and method approach which often is associated with positivism, the prevailing paradigm in recent times. Under this approach scientific methods can more or less readily represent and measure concepts which seek to predict and explain causal relations among key variables. However, some critics are of the view that positivistic methods reduce the contextual meanings in the process of developing quantified measures of phenomena. Though the issue of empirical approach to research has been justified by its success in measuring quantitative research, in more recent years, scientists have been challenged to explain phenomena that defy measurement and their inability to quantitatively measure some phenomena, and the dissatisfaction with which the results of measurement of other phenomena have led to an intense search for other approaches to study human phenomena. A modern approach, which came to be known as post positivism, is a recent evolution of positivism which focus has been on qualitative methods, and is modeled on positivistic methods and experimental designs (Miles and Huberman, 1993). This approach has led to the acceptance of qualitative research approach which does not need empirical data to discover knowledge. However, one cannot help but to stuck by the success of qualitative research methods in the market place of academic ideas (Atkinson, 1995, p. 117). The tradition of using qualitative methods to study human phenomena is grounded in the social sciences. The tradition came about because aspects of human values, culture, and relationships were unable to be described fully using quantitative research methods. More recently, the practice of qualitative research has expanded to clinical settings because empirical approaches have proven to be of limited service in answering some of the challenges and pressing clinical questions, especially where human subjectivity and interpretation are involved (Thorne, 1997, p. 28). However, the use of qualitative research has its own flaws as well. It is unable to study relationships between variables with the degree of accuracy that is required to establish social trends. For the purpose of this proposal a triangulation of qualitative and quantitative methodology would be used to analyse data. However qualitative method has a more flexible approach in pr ocedure to construction of research design in the sampling, data collection and processing and reporting. DATA COLLECTION Data will be collected from a variety of sources within the selected community, from families, kin, neighbours, educationists, legal and health practitioners, from neighbourhood and community associations, religious groups, welfare agencies, specialised groups such as trade unions, from local councils and other organised groups. Further information gathered will come from retired persons themselves, from their families/kin, extra familial networks, neighbourhood, their community and from state agencies. The material gathered from these levels will be in a complementary relationship to one another in order to approximate a high degree of reliability and validity. The principal data that will be gathered include the followings: (a) Community profile: geographic, demographic, historical, political-social and economic conditions of the community, placed within the national context. (b) Prevailing cultural norms and the expectations concerning the retired persons and their care, conceptions about reciprocity and exchange, family and kinship relationship etc. (c) Inventory and detailed descriptions of indigenous informal support systems and of formal support systems available within the community. Another source of data collection will be a historical review of formal and informal support systems available in the community and local levels. At the formal level, data will include the public services and programmes instituted by the government at different levels. At the informal level, data will include information on the traditional supporting roles played by family, kin, patrons and others. Data collection will proceed by means of primary sources of data such as interviews, questionnaire, and focus group discussions. Secondary data through existing literature will be used by the researcher. In terms of priorities, it is expected that questionnaires will be constructed and pretested. INTERVIEWS The interview is a face to face meeting between a questioner and a respondent, or an oral presentation of an opinion or attitude scale (Zikmund, 1994). Structured interview will be used for meeting the respondents. It will however be inter space with unstructured interviews when interacting with non pensioners. QUESTIONNAIRES A questionnaire is a written instrument that contains a series of questions or statements called items that attempts to collect information on a particular topic. It is useful for large scale surveys that involve collection of data from literate respondents. Questionnaire will be administered to pensioners as well. FOCUS GROUP DISCUSSION Another source of data collection will be focus group discussions. This third phase about 9-12 pensioners will be grouped for discussions about their personal experience before and after active service. The selection of participant will be balance in terms of sex to give it a fair representation. DATA ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION In recording the information or data gathered, I will employ both quantitative and qualitative analysis. Data will be described and in other cases subjected to quantitative analysis regarding trends in each dimension of the topic. Correlations between aspects of the topic and a series of other variables to establish more detailed results will be conducted. Beyond this, the researcher is expected to explain behaviours more extensively and more accurately. Where data needs empirical analysis quantitative model will be used and where it needs description and collection and analysis occur simultaneously, qualitative model will be suitable. INTENDED BENEFITS The Government under the Ministry of Employment and Social Welfare is seriously considering the development of a national policy for the aged. Local authorities should compliment government effort by initiating social and community activities to engage the elderly in the community as well as supplement government efforts of finding welfare resources for them. The results of this study should identify and address gaps in existing interventions. My contribution to the study is to draw to attention that every worker dreams of going on retirement one day. Therefore adequate preparations should be made for the aged who have live most of their life working to develop the country so that they dont retire and still wallow in poverty. My motivation stern from the very experience of having to handle my aged parents who were once public servants and are now on retirement and in addition to relations and friends who are affected in one way or another of their aged relatives. The intention of spending time and money on this exercise is to bring about an improvement of the status quo. TIME PLAN PHASE 1 PHASE 2 PHASE 3 FROM TO FROM TO FROM TO DATA GATHERING METHOD 1 use of questions 2 interviews 3Focus grp Dis. June-July. Pre test Decem.-Jan. Retired workers. June-July Cap 30 Retired Workers Oct. Nov. August-September Commty. profile Feb-Mar. Families Kin. Commty mmb August Sept. SSNIT Retired Workers Octob.- Novem. Prevailng cul. Norm April.-May edu, Leg., Health workrs ANALYSIS METHODS 1 Qualitative Mainly descriptive analysis of data. Often collection and analysis will occur simultaneously. METHODS 2Quantitative Mainly statistical analysis of data. Correlation between aspects of the topic and a series of variables will be established. BUDGET. Activity Quantity/number Frequency Unit Cost Total Cost GHÂ ¢ Internet Browsing Browsing and printing 20.00 Documents acquired 40.00 Travel expenses Fuel for local movement 20.00 Feeding accommodation Rent for two years and food GHÂ ¢ 120.00 240.00 Printing and photo copying questionnaires 15 pages 100 respondents 100.00 Printing 80 pages 8 copies 60GP 384.00 Binding of books 8 copies GHÂ ¢10.00 80.00 Grant Total GHÂ ¢884.00

International Customs Law Case Study

International Customs Law Case Study Natasha Joseph Candoma and Rutamu are two neighbouring States along which the river Hope runs. This river contains a rare fish that both States regularly seek out. Due to the river being narrow, the two States have created a system that allows one State to fish, while the other waits until the first has left. One day, a vessel from Candoma was fishing when a vessel from Ruatmu approached. The latter vessel refused to halt, thus resulting in a collision of both vessels. The Rutamuan captain was arrested and tried in Candoman court (Abass, 2012, p. 66). The issue, in this case, is whether Rutamu breached International Customs Law when its vessel encroached upon Candomas vessel as the Candoman crew was fishing in the river Hope. The principles discussed within the chapter will be used as an aid in advising how both parties should argue their respective cases. According to Article 38(1) of the International Court of Justice, the governing rule of law in this dispute is Customary International Law (Abass, 2012, p. 27). Customary International Law is defined as the general and consistent practice followed by States, from a sense of legal obligation (Abass, 2012, p.34). The dispute between Candoma and Rutamu meet the criteria for customary international law, as without this custom, there were severe sanctions that followed. Consistent is defined as conforming to a regular pattern that is unchanging in agreement (Oxford Dictionary, 2010).   In this case, consistency and uniformity of practice are required to prove custom (Abass, 2012, p.39). Candoma constantly abided by the rules that were set out when the custom was created. Although, Rutamu, was not as consistent given the vessel breached waiting, a small degree or frequency will not prevent the formation of this customary rule (Abass, 2012, p.39). Therefore, the practice by Candoma a nd Rutamu over the course of several years demonstrates consistent behaviour. The two criteria for proving the existence of customs in International law are general state practice and opinio juris. General state practice is defined as the total sum of how States behave in respect of a particular issue or situation (Abass, 2012, p.37). In this case, the State of Candoma participated in general state practice. The party which relies on a customà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦must prove that this custom is established in such a manner that it has become binding on the other party (Abass, 2012, p.39). Since Candoma relied on this custom by practicing it, they proved to Rutamu that there was a custom to abide by. Therefore binding Rutamu to participate in the custom. Although it may be argued that, Rutamu did not participate in general state practice. According to Akehurst a number of States participating is more important than the frequency or duration of the practice. Even a practice followed by a few States, on a few occasions and for a short period of time, can create a custom ary rule (Abass, 2012, p.38). In this case, both States needed to participate in the action of this custom in order for there to be a customary law. As this custom is a regional custom, all States against which a regional custom is claimed must have accepted it (Abass, 2012, p. 37). Therefore, this shows that general state practice has not been established. Opinio Juris is defined as the psychological element underscoring States belief that they are under a legal obligation to do, or to refrain form doing, an act (Abass, 2012,p.42). Official statements are not required when determining opinio juris; rather it may be gathered from, acts or omissions (Abass, 2012, p. 40). In this case, the State of Condoma expressed opinio juris through accepting the custom of waiting as law, believing that they were under a legal obligation to fulfill such an act. They reaffirmed opinio juris through general state practice. Although it may be argued, that Rutamu did not express opinio juris. This can be seen through the States actions. Rutamu had previously objected once to the waiting custom by writing to Candoma. The act of writing justifies that Rutamu did not believe in the custom of waiting. In a regional custom, States must demonstrate customary acceptance. In other words, it can be considered as an opt in process. Meaning, a particular State must have demonstrated acceptance of this law through State practice and opinio juris to participate in such a custom (Braley Rattai, 2017). Seeing that Rutamu did not express opinio juris, and wrote to Candoma justified the State was not bound to any law. This demonstrates that Rutamu did not breach waiting; therefore this shows that opinio juris has not been established. In conclusion, both parties have strong cases in relation to this dispute. Although, Rutamu did not breach the custom of waiting as it failed to express opinio juris and general state practice, which are required in participating in a regional custom. Therefore, this State did not participate in the waiting custom and was thus not bound to it making them eligible to freely fish at any given time they want. References (APA Style): Abass, A. (2012). Complete International Law: Text, Cases, and Materials (2nd ed.). Oxford: Oxford University Press. Braley Rattai, A. (2017, January 10). International Law: Theories and Sources. Lecture presented at University of Toronto, Scarborough. Oxford Dictionary of Current English. (2001). New York.

One of the Greatest Concerts Ever :: Music Bands Essays

One of the Greatest Concerts Ever It was a cold windy day in late November. The sky was blue, but the air had a chill to it. It was a typical Colorado fall day. My friends and I stood in a circle lightly bouncing trying to keep ourselves warm. It has always been our tradition to get to an arena at least an hour before a concert starts and wait for the doors to open. This day was no different we refused to let the weather break our tradition. We ended up paying for it because our nose and cheeks began to turn rosy red and our fingers and toes were going numb. When the doors to the arena finally opened we all breathed a sigh of relief and rushed inside to warm up. Inside the arena, the excitement of all the fans could be felt. People were talking about how much they liked the bands that would be performing, and many were amazed to be there because it was their first concert. Many other people also seemed to be doing the â€Å"pre-concert ritual† which is seen at many concerts, and that is getting as much beer in them as possible. Everyone seemed to be having a good time preparing for the concert ahead. The arena was separated into two different sections; the reserved seating section which goes all along the arena and then the general admission section which is all along the floor of the arena closest to the stage. My friends and I were on the floor; this is our traditional spot and seems to be where all of the action takes place. This is where people mosh in the mosh pits and fans can try and get as close to the stage as possible. Not only is being on the floor the liveliest and most fun spot to be, it is also the most dangerous. People will begin moshing and run into the rest of the crowd, and many fights will break out because people want to get as close to the stage as possible. Being a smaller girl is a huge disadvantage at a concert like this. It is really easy to get pushed and sometimes it is hard to see over other people because they are taller. My friends and I were as close to the stage as we could get and we were having a great time listening to the band Trust Company.

Australopithecus :: Informative, Anthropology

Australopithecus There are many types of the hominid called australopithecus, which means southern apes. These were small ape-like creatures(with a height between 107cm and 152cm) that showed evidence of walking upright. It is difficult to tell whether these begins are "humans" or "apes". Many of their characteristics are split between humans and apes. The many species of australopithecus include A.(australopithecus) ramidus, A. anamenesis, A. afarensis, A. africanus, A . acthiopicus, A. robustus, and A. boisei. The oldest known and identified species of australopithecus that roamed the earth was a. ramidus who lived about 4.5 million years ago. Next came A. Anamensis, A afarensis, A africanus, A. acthiopicus, a boisei and a. robustus. Ausralopithecus boisei roamed the earth as early as 1.1 million years ago and was on earth at the sametime as homo habilis and homo erectus. Most of the australopithecus fossils that have been discovered have been found in eastern africa and have been dated between 4.5 million and 1.1 million years old. There has also been evidence that the australopithecus "man" lived in australia where fossils have also been found. The first discovery of an australopithecus fossil was made in 1924. The body of the australopithecus is smaller than humans, but biffer than chimpanzees. Also, The brain size of australopithecus is bigger than humans at about 475 cubic centimeters. This is also biffer than the chipanzees, but the brains were not developed in most areas. For example speech. The australopithecus species all had mostly the same features with a low forehead, a "bony ridge"over the eyes, a

Homosexuality in Christianity Essay

The most common form of marriage everywhere in the world is the marriage of man and woman, or heterosexual marriage. John Edmiston quoted the Holy Bible (New King James Version) to justify this kind of marriage: â€Å"a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and they shall become one flesh† (Genesis 1:27). In a Christian perspective, the Holy Bible always seemed to be one of the best references for issues concerning Christians, and non-Christians. In the Christian perspective, Edmiston further explains that the sacred union of the male and female reflects the perfect expression of God’s power, with His image as both man and woman. Thus it is justified that heterosexual marriage is intended for a man and a woman and is meant to be life-long. This union, he says, is characterized by sexual intimacy, a normal method by which a man and a woman bonds and interacts both emotionally and physically. It is especially because man and woman both correspond to each other’s bodies and this is the very way couples produce their own offspring. Contrary to heterosexual marriage, homosexual marriage is highly debated ever since. Majority of Christian denominations do not allow same-sex marriages, deny sacred union between two men or two women. Rey Will discussed the institution of marriage as originating from religion, and not from the civil origin, justifying the major denial of marriage to homosexuals in the churches. But Edwin Lukens does not only refer homosexual or same-sex marriages to formal rites of the church or of civil marriage but it also refers to homosexual couples who live together and consider themselves as ‘married’ even if they are still unrecognized by the formal institutions of church and state. As for most Christian denominations man and woman marriage is seen to be godly, sacred, as it is natural and biblical, and is hailed for its purpose of procreation. Homosexual marriage on the other hand is viewed as unnatural, immoral, and is damaging. It is also observed to cause role confusion in the family framework. As Lukens had put it, men and women were intended to be made different from each other, coming together in a balanced state. Rick Santorum in an interview stated that homosexuals advocating for equal marriage rights do not know what same-sex marriage can do to ecology, religious liberty, and the mental and physical health of children. The clash between heterosexual and homosexual marriages is echoed throughout the references being used for this project. Homosexuality Homosexuality is basically attraction to the same sex. But where does this attraction come from? Mark Copeland discusses the origin of homosexuality. In his article he clashed two sides of homosexuality, genetic and environmental. In the case of the genetic side, homosexuals see themselves as ‘born’ homosexuals. They see their homosexuality as something natural. If it was so, homosexuality is just as acceptable to anything else and is not considered a sin to the Christian faith. A study was highlighted in Copeland’s article, where 110pairs of identical twins were separated from each other and raised differently. It was observed that if one was gay, the other twin would most likely be gay too, only at a 52% chance. However, Copeland had a different analysis of the result. He said that if homosexuality is truly genetic in origin, both twins should always be 100% straight or gay, and just the fact that it does not, it means that there are other factors contributing to homosexuality. These factors may make it easier to become entrapped in homosexuality, he explains. Copeland also discusses in his article the causes of homosexuality, based on a book by Tim LaHaye entitled â€Å"The Unhappy Gays: What Everyone Should Know About Homosexuality.† LaHaye listed components that may contribute to develop predisposition to homosexuality. Copeland discussed that the list mostly contains environmental factors such as permissive childhood training, childhood sexual trauma, childhood associates., which may begin early in life causing the person to feel that he or she was born in that way. However, this predisposition, as LaHaye puts it, must be added with other factors like repetitive homosexual experiences and pleasurable and positive homosexual thoughts. Therefore, Copeland in his article defines a homosexual as someone who â€Å"already has a ‘predisposition†¦, exposure to homosexual experiences and pleasurably reflecting upon them.† Another issue with homosexuality is health. A lot of studies has been done that proves that homosexual behavior makes homosexuals more vulnerable to disease and thus decreases their lifespan. Sexually transmitted diseases are known to be of high occurrence in homosexuals. This becomes another reason why they are seen as immoral and damaging to the society. Christian Opinons on Homosexuality It interests me to learn that Christians clash when it comes to their opinions regarding homosexuals. Some denominations see homosexuality as a sin while others do not see it as a sin but rather as something natural and acceptable. But most, according to Kelli Mahoney, fall into those who condemn the sin and not the sinner, or explained more thoroughly, homosexual behavior is condemned while homosexuals themselves are allowed and often encouraged to join as members of congregations. Most Christian denominations view homosexuality as a sin, where   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   homosexual behavior is immoral. Homosexual relationships are viewed to be something horrible and shameful. They point out to the story of Creation where God only created Adam and Eve for each other. As Copeland stated it, â€Å"if God made them that way, then it is not their fault they are homosexual and it must not be a sin to act out their desires.† Homosexuals then defend themselves as ‘born that way’. Rey Will said that the premise is that â€Å"gay [or homosexual] marriages or unions will not affect society as a whole and will only be like a normal union.† Homosexuality, Bible, and Current Christianity According to Lukens, the Bible says little about homosexual or same-sex marriage, but it says a lot about homosexuality and the immoralities connected with it. Denial of the marital union between homosexuals is justified by God’s plan for sexuality, in the Creation story in the Bible, where only man and woman are created for each other. Edmiston argues that if it was natural for homosexuality, our bodies would have been designed to be able to reproduce new offspring with the same sex, in a healthy and natural way. In the Bible, homosexual passions and acts are posed as unnatural and shameful, immoral, and it denies the practitioner entrance to the Kingdom of God. Edmiston states that this, unity outside eternal salvation, is the reason why same-sex or homosexual marriage can never be sanctioned by the church. Edmiston further states that â€Å"marriage is a fundamental social institution that does not exist just for the emotional satisfaction of two individuals but for the greater good of the community which stands under the blessing or curse of God.† As I have read from Religion Facts, the United Methodist Church sees that homosexual behavior and practice is not compatible with teaching, and that practicing homosexuals should not be ordained as ministers. However, some local congregations, especially those members of the Reconciling Ministers Network, have challenged this ruling of the church authority through putting certain homosexuals in minister power, and they have fought this policy in church courts. The Methodist Church has also supported civil rights for gays, but the issue of support for same-sex marriage is still not clear. Another interesting Christian denomination regarding homosexual issues is the Metropolitan Community Church. According to Religion Facts, it is an international fellowship of Christian congregations, with a specific outreach to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender communities. An important aspect of its faith is the acceptance of homosexuality. They had challenged the legal heterosexual definition of marriage in Ontario. Two couples in Ontario used an old legal procedure to marry without a license. As soon as same-sex marriage was legalized in Ontario, their marriages were recognized. The Metropolitan Community Church has always been attacked by bombings, desecrations, vandalism, threats, and arson, mainly due to its huge membership of homosexuals and its views on homosexuality. My last example of Christian denomination in the issue of homosexuality is the United Church of Christ, all facts again according to Religion Facts. It is organized according to congregational principles, causing views on controversial matters vary among congregations. A minority of the United Church of Christ has adopted an open and affirming statement that welcomes homosexuals in all aspects of church life. Other congregations on the other hand openly oppose homosexual practice, and many of them have no official policy at all. It had even publicized a TV commercial in 2004 promoting the policy of ‘radical hospitality’, which dramatized minorities and homosexuals that were turned away from a typical church.   However, it was not able to persuade any major U.S. TV network to air the commercial. In 2005, they encouraged their member congregations to adopt wedding policies that do not discriminate gender, and to support legislation of same-sex marriage. Homosexuals may see the approval of same-sex marriage as freeing of social and religious constraints. Jonathan Rauch said in an interview that homosexuals â€Å"need the same safety. They need the same caregiving anybody else does.† Pointing out to the unruliness of some Christians, he stated that â€Å"gay people are the only people in America who have to follow Biblical law† and â€Å"Gay people should deal with the same standards as straight people.† Still, some people see the approval of same-sex marriage as damaging. Rick Santorum said that â€Å"marriage then becomes †¦ meaningless. If anybody can get married for any reason, then it loses its special place.† Conclusion In Conclusion, Most of the Christians are against homosexuality, but some of them are not. â€Å"Are emotions a sufficient basis for marriage?† I think this question raised by Edmiston would help Christians think properly of their view of homosexuality and homosexuals. Christians may execute to follow the rules which are created by God.   Different rules are set for different Christians. Different beliefs of sex and homosexuality are also given to them. At one point, it is not different from the non-Christians because there is moral opinion and the society. At another, it is different from the non-Christians because they always focus on the religious and biblical background of homosexuality.