Swot Analysis of Nike Essay Example

Swot Analysis of Nike Paper Strengths: †¢Brand name recognition, because Bike has been around so long, the brand is recognized and respected both international and domestically. †¢Brand loyalty, Nike has consistently produced quality products that appeal t its consumers both internationally and domestically. †¢Nike carries a wide arrangement of product with a large amount of options for personal preference. †¢Nike carries a wide arrangement of product with a large amount of options for personal preference. †¢Strong international presence, in the event that U. S sales continue to slack off or the economy continues to worsen, they have their international investment that consistently turns a profit. They are the number one consistently turns a profit. They are the number one footwear manufacturer in nine international countries; with distribution center both international and domestically. The ad agency that they contract out to has opened three offices in three different countries in order to reach their target audience on a local level. †¢Nike is costly trying to increases their international presence. †¢Low manufacturing cost Nike have an on-line store where custom shoes may be purchased †¢In such a competition environment Nike steps it up by investing a large portion of their into RD, with the formation of the Nike sport research laboratory in 1980, and the introduction of the advance product engineering department; Nike is making sure that they stay in control of their market share. There two departments ensure that Nike has new shoe styles and are constantly developing new product. Weakness: †¢Earlier Nike shoes and apparel were being manufactured through the exploitation of child labor. We will write a custom essay sample on Swot Analysis of Nike specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Swot Analysis of Nike specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Swot Analysis of Nike specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer The consumer response was so great that it had suffered a lot at its first, till it’s had made change its practices. †¢Contract manufacturing of shoes to low-wage factories makes Nike susceptible to laws, and economic problems abroad. Opportunities: †¢Product diversification, with new technology and increased earning they should be able to invest even more into R D †¢Increase their global presence by expanding their services to countries such as Chile, Peru, Bolivia, India, Mexico, and South Africa in an attempt to serve those with the largest populations. The key is more advertising, encourage young people to purchase Nike’s even if they are not sport’ players. †¢Increase marketing to the female consumer. †¢Increase manufacturing of products that the new generation is interested, specifically booth and sandals. Threats: †¢Increase competition both domestically and internationally. †¢Change in the young consumer preference to s andals and boots. †¢High inflation and unemployment in Asia and Pacific Rim, Latin America, and Russia may cause a decline in shoe sales. †¢The flections of region currency and interest rate may pose a treat to earnings. †¢Import and export regulations.

Free Essays on Gang Violence In The San Fernando Valley

Gang violence in the San Fernando Valley â€Å"My son, my son! He was a good boy, sure he hung around a bad crowd of friends, had a shaved head, and wore baggy pants, but he’d never hurt anyone. Why did they have to shoot him? Why?† It seems that that more and more parents all over the valley are crying out a similar cry. The significant increase in gang violence in the San Fernando Valley is one of the biggest problems that the valley suffers from. The streets of the San Fernando Valley appear to be the battleground for a Civil War between a numerous amounts of gangs. Too many young people are dying from gang violence, especially innocent by standers. Gangs in the San Fernando Valley appear not to diminish through the years, rather have increased. Despite the vast amount of programs offered or mandated around the valley focusing on gang prevention, such as the Jeopardy Program or the L.A.P.D. CRASH Unit, the killing of human lives continue in a rapid growth. Gangs and gang violence are a big problem in the Sa n Fernando Valley and will continue to be so, unless there’s a truce between all gangs marking an end to this deadly violence. Gangs in the San Fernando Valley date back as far as the 1920’s. Many of those original gangs were mainly formed by a group of adolescents merely socializing together in the same neighborhood. Many of these adolescents which had the same cultural background, language, and customs, could easily associate with each other. The unison between these adolescents manifested from the racial tensions that was created upon them by the military, with such events as the Zoot Suit Riots. These gangs were created as a form of protection amongst minorities. Slowly these gangs have turned to drugs and violence, in what is now seen as the present. In this century, adolescents are pushed to join gangs due to the lack of communication or parental guidance in the household. These adolescents grow up in search of comfor... Free Essays on Gang Violence In The San Fernando Valley Free Essays on Gang Violence In The San Fernando Valley Gang violence in the San Fernando Valley â€Å"My son, my son! He was a good boy, sure he hung around a bad crowd of friends, had a shaved head, and wore baggy pants, but he’d never hurt anyone. Why did they have to shoot him? Why?† It seems that that more and more parents all over the valley are crying out a similar cry. The significant increase in gang violence in the San Fernando Valley is one of the biggest problems that the valley suffers from. The streets of the San Fernando Valley appear to be the battleground for a Civil War between a numerous amounts of gangs. Too many young people are dying from gang violence, especially innocent by standers. Gangs in the San Fernando Valley appear not to diminish through the years, rather have increased. Despite the vast amount of programs offered or mandated around the valley focusing on gang prevention, such as the Jeopardy Program or the L.A.P.D. CRASH Unit, the killing of human lives continue in a rapid growth. Gangs and gang violence are a big problem in the Sa n Fernando Valley and will continue to be so, unless there’s a truce between all gangs marking an end to this deadly violence. Gangs in the San Fernando Valley date back as far as the 1920’s. Many of those original gangs were mainly formed by a group of adolescents merely socializing together in the same neighborhood. Many of these adolescents which had the same cultural background, language, and customs, could easily associate with each other. The unison between these adolescents manifested from the racial tensions that was created upon them by the military, with such events as the Zoot Suit Riots. These gangs were created as a form of protection amongst minorities. Slowly these gangs have turned to drugs and violence, in what is now seen as the present. In this century, adolescents are pushed to join gangs due to the lack of communication or parental guidance in the household. These adolescents grow up in search of comfor...

A View of the Impact of Technology on the Participation of Eligible Voters in an Election

A View of the Impact of Technology on the Participation of Eligible Voters in an Election The Effect of Modern Technology and Voter Turnout Today’s generation has seen the massive increase in modern technology, specifically in the aspect of media. As television and the Internet become more impactful on society, the more attention paid to the radio and newspapers decrease. One of the prominent effects from media use is displayed in the campaign techniques of the United States’ presidential election candidates. The trend change among media outlets is due to the modernizing times. Less American people find it important listen to talk radio and to read a newspaper everyday. It is clear, however, the need to be attached to the computers in their pockets and have their eyes glued to TV screens. I will be testing the idea that the people of the United States of America have a higher inclination to vote if they pay more attention to politics through television and the Internet than they do to the radio and newspapers. This hypothesis contradicts the general thinking among political scientists, however. Commonly, the higher the socioeconomic status of individuals, the more inclination there is to vote (American Psychological Association, 2015). A higher SES indicates the more educated, who are generally more involved in the political process, are more likely to read newspapers. The older generation also tends to rely more on newspapers, as well as talk radio. In order to test my hypothesis, I will use the control variable of education level, separating it into three categories (high school diploma, college graduate and graduate degree). Alexandra Pelosi (2005) inquires about the corruption of the media during the election season, which supports the fact that Americans are trul y less informed about the happenings in politics, even though they have more access. Henry Brady and Richard Johnston (2006) also argue the fact that the increased use in media greatly effects voter turnout. To create the graphs used to explain my hypothesis, I used data sets from ICPSR. The row variable was set to show the different media outlets in which voters paid attention, using the codes C02, C04, C06 and C08. The column variable represented the people that voted in the 2012 presidential election (A01) and the control variable is education (R04). The figures (Figures 1-12) show that the majority of the American population did not vote in 2012 election, regardless of education level. All except the figures regarding attention paid to television news (Figures 4-6). This not only proves the fact that there is a higher voter turnout from those that turn to modern technology for information, but also that television is the favored source of all four mediums. I was most surprised to notice the difference in voted versus not voted when attention was paid to politics in the newspaper (Figures 1-3) because regardless of the education level, the majority did not vote. It was also interesting to see how the voters with just a high school diploma, paying attention to the Internet news (Figure7), voted: the majority did not pay attention to the Internet at all, whereas the college graduate and graduate degree levels had more people paying attention to it. When analyzing the effects of radio news on voter turnout (Figures 9-12), I notice the lack in relationship. Most of the people surveyed either did, or did not, vote regardless of paying attention to the radio. In recent elections, the ways presidential candidates campaign have changed with the modernizing technology. Although all continue to travel around the country building the personal connection with the voters, more ads are put out on television, the majority of it being negative. According to Dingfelder (2012), the American population responds more to negative ads than positive ones. These TV campaigns are frequently used due to the fact that nearly every American home has a television, and is watched on a daily basis. This fact allows a wide range of coverage with minimal effort. When analyzing the data, it can be understood that when it comes to paying attention to media for national politics, the voters with an education level of at least a high school diploma that rely on television news are the ones which have a higher voter turnout, with the Internet of a person with a graduate degree coming in second. The other media outlets, the newspaper and radio, generally have the same outcomes, minimal effects of media outlet on voter turnout. While I used one control variable, education level, there was still the problem of age when focusing on the common knowledge that an older generation pays more attention to newspaper and radio. Age poses a problem because a college graduate can range from 21 to 45 years old, since anyone can have a higher or lower level of education. To further the study, the control variable of age can be tested to see if and how the relationship would change. Splitting the category into two subcategories of 18 to 44 and 45 to 65 will allow a simplification of the data for a clearer result.

3 discussion questions and participation questions I will post a Essay

3 discussion questions and participation questions I will post a couple more later. thanks - Essay Example The best way to protect intellectual property rights is for managers to utilize a mechanism called patents. A patent is a special type of license that protects your intellectual property rights up to 20 years. An industry that depends on protection for its survival is the pharmaceutical industry. Patents are a way to pay justice to investors or companies that believe in innovation. A pharmaceutical company can take up to 16 years and upwards of $800 million to develop a new drug. Managers have to establish control mechanism in order to protect tangible and intellectual property rights. For example the research and development people should work in an area separated from the rest of the staff. The internal security of the building is also important. A way for a corporation to improve its security is by installing various cameras around the building. Performing trimester audits can help increase the accountability of the managers and workers of an enterprise. The OSHA Act protects all parties that participate in the corporate world. Safety is something that companies cannot forget since we are dealing with the well being of human workers. If an Act such as the Occupational Safety and Health Act would have existed in India in 1984 the tragic events of Union Carbide which killed thousands of people may have been avoided. The government has to establish responsible regulation to protect workers from being the victims of abusive behavior to their patrons. The Family Act you mentioned is a very governmental initiative because it protects the basic right of people when they needed the most. A major illness to a family affects people emotionally which can hurt their profitability at work. An interest fact you mentioned in your post was that employer are obligated to place an ASHA poster visible to the employees. I believe a lot of companies may be violating this regulation. At my last place of work I did see such a poster anywhere in the building. The minimum wage in

Ethical Implications of Takeovers Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Ethical Implications of Takeovers - Essay Example From the case, it is clear that the Chief Executive Officer is unaware of this situation and thus may not be part of the investigation. Thus, Lisa can discuss the issue with the CEO and try to find the problem or compel the CFO to produce evidence of the entries in the financial information. Since Fragrance Company is under the Home and Care Product management, the CEO has the power to launch an investigation into the malpractices in financial reporting. Another course of action is that Lisa can consult an impartial accountant. The objective is to understand the various elements of the report. It is possible that Lisa may misunderstand several entries and thus consulting another accountant may shed more light. The accountant may also give Lisa more information regarding the possible action that she can take as a professional accountant. It would be better is Lisa can access an IMA Ethics Counselor to address this issue. The third option that Lisa has is to seek legal advice from an attorney. It is important to understand that accounting has its legal implications and thus Lisa must have the information at hand. The attorney should explain to Lisa the legal option that she has and how to go about them. In essence, the attorney explains the legal implication of the exposure and the possible legal suits. Of the three choices, the best choice is to report the issue to the top leadership of the company.

Legal framework for social work in United Kingdom Essay Example for Free

Legal framework for social work in United Kingdom Essay Social work is defined as a professional and academic discipline that will seek to have improvement on the individuals, groups’ and communities’ quality of life and their well-being through having policies, conducting researches, organizing communities and teaching for the good of the people affected by social limitations that may include poverty, mental and physical sickness, social injustice including violation of human rights. International (Federation of Social Workers 2000). These groups may include school dropouts, the elderly in the society, juvenile offenders, drug and alcohol abusers and the homeless Social workers will work in different settings within a set of framework of legislation and practices. The setting may include a school situation, the service users’ home, a hospital or a public sector premise Social work values Social work is argued to be value based. Since it is a profession on, social work ethics (values) thus refer to a set of guidelines that have to govern the way professionals treat the people they interact with and the sort of actions that are regarded as right or wrong. They offer a vision and discernment (Bernstein 1970) Social work in the United Kingdom occurs in four spheres. The first sphere is majorly a concept relates to the moral philosophy that creates the ethical arguments on social work. The second sphere is based on the legislation that has created an environment for practice of social work with reference to the social work cases. The third sphere is the political ideas and concepts and their influence in shaping and sculpturing the social work models, social work methods and practices. The last sphere presents the historical part of the beginning of social work as a profession and its struggle for professional identity. These spheres are extended, mid range and restricted definitions of social work ethics and values (Bernard et al 2008, p. 6) This paper will focus on the second sphere in reference to the United Kingdom. Social work and law Social work as a profession has to follow certain laws and regulations which govern the profession. The legal framework involves the statute laws and case laws and tries to explain the relationship that links them. Moreover, it details legislation of the government under acts of parliament, the international laws, policy guidance, and the local government circulars that articulate the purpose and guidance principles of legislation. The Health and Care professional Council code of practice As a social worker, it is paramount to be aware of the legal obligations required of them to cretae a healthy and safe working conditions. The General Social Care Council code of practice imposes more duties for employers of social workers. The code states that (Brayne Carr 2002, P. 49) The social worker shall protect and promote interests of the service users The social worker will strive to establish, maintain trust and confidence of the service users The social worker will promote independence of the service users while giving them protection from possible harm The social worker shall respect the rights of the service users while ensuring that their behavior will not harm other people and themselves The social worker shall uphold the public trust and confidence in the social care services The social worker shall be accountable for quality in their work and taking responsibility for maintenance and improvement of their knowledge ACTS OF PARLIAMENT The Carew standard Act 2000 This Act has a significant role in the social care work as it did extend the registration regime for the social care in England and that of Wales for provision of the children’s services, the Act requires the following: Registration of children homes Registration of family centre’sRegistration of the independent fostering agencies Registration of voluntary adoption agencies Registration of support agencies To be a permanent registered member one has to meet a set of regulations tailored to each individual service. In coming up to a decision whether the regulatory requirement shave been fulfilled, the registering authority must have a regard to minimum National standards. England’s registration authority is Office for Standards in Education, Childrens Services and Skills (OFSTED). The Social workers and the social care services cannot function without having satisfied the above requirements. As a social worker or a social care service provider, there is a need to have knowledge to avoid prosecution by Law The health and social care Act 2012 This bill was agreed upon by both houses and obtained the Royal Assent on the 27th of March to become an act of parliament. The bill created an independent National Health Service Board to promote choices made by the patients in regard to their health issues and reduced the administration tool of the National Health Service. A National Health Service Board was also created to allocate resources and provide guidance on commissioning of social care services. Powers of the government’s ability to commission services on behalf of patients were increased. The function of the Care Quality Commission was strengthened and Section 209 of this Act amended. The powers of the new law under Section 60 of the 199 Act gave her majesty the power by order in the council to regulate social workers and social care practitioners of England. This placed the role of social workers and the role of social health care providers directly under her majesty (Britain 2012, p. 9). This Act placed a lot of Significance on Social Care services being provided in the United Kingdom. A consideration on the adult social care was emphasized. For example, allowing the transfer of public health to the local authorities through local health and the well being boards. Various new bodies have emerged such as the Local health watches which have a function of checking on health and the social care standards. Children’s Act 2004. In England, the law protects the right of children. Section 11 and 12 of this Act places a statutory duty on all agencies to co-operate and promote the welfare of the children. The government guidance for social workers and other professionals that interact with children is that: the social worker has a duty of keeping the children safe. There should be constant feedback to the children social care local authority on suggestions and assessment and lastly every person who has a role should not think that he/she has the absolute right to the child’s needs. Professionals sometimes fail to report the abuse and neglect cases do not face penalties for crime however; they might be subjected to professional discipline Public Services (Social Value) Act 2012 The bill got a Royal Assent on 8th of March. The bill aimed to give strength to the social enterprise businesses sectors and make relevant the concept of social value and its importance in the placing and providing of public services. With this bill a National Social enterprise strategy was created to encourage the engagement in social enterprises. The local government act 2000 section 4 was then required to have a sustainable community strategy proposal that promote the engagement of social enterprise in their areas. The Local Authority Social Services Act 1970 This Act brought together the different fields of social work into a single Social service department in every local authority. With this establishment, an emphasis was laid on a co-ordinated and comprehensive system of approach to the social care, the support of families and identifying the need for people to seek aid. The formulated departments then became responsible for domestic aid, residential accommodation and recreational services. Care council of Wales All social workers should be registered. It is one of the bodies mandated to register and regulates the activities of the social workers and all other social care in Wales. The care council is set up under the Care Standards Act 2000. It includes the codes of professional practice, conduct rules, and a well established guideline on the complainant’s procedure. Some other features accessed include consultation services, annual reports, the newsletters and the e-bulletins. Registration of workers ensures that there is as constant data of available social workers and social health care workers in a given state or region. It is easy to verify a genuine worker and avoids imposters who might be out on criminal activities Care and Social services inspectorate Wales This is a body mandated to regulating and inspecting the establishment of agencies that offer social care services in Wales region. It carries out duties on behalf of the ministers of Wales. It has been given power under Act 2003 of the Social and Health care to look into the handling of social services by the local authorities. On their website, one is able to raise a query on social workers conduct for necessary action. Rights and freedoms of Social workers and limitations Guide to information sharing Social work is a professional duty. When dealing with children, England places emphasis on effective information sharing between the local agencies and the social workers on identification and assessment of service provisions. These are defined in â€Å"Working together to safeguard children (PDF). Under this guidance, paragraph 1.24 states clearly that fears that arise on sharing personal information should not hinder promotion of a child’s welfare and safety. All social workers and social care provider thus are required to have an efficient information discernment process to avoid a scenario of neglect in believe that another individual will do the task. Limitations to this guide These provisions however do have limitations. In Wales’s guidance on information sharing is found in chapter 14 of Safeguarding children working together under the Children Act 2004 (PDF). In these guidance paragraph 14.5 overlaps the guidance for professionals in England. It states that â€Å"The safety and welfare of a child or young person must be put into consideration first when making decisions about sharing information about them† and that must be, â€Å"an overriding public interest in disclosing information.† The guidance then further goes on to give the way forward in sharing on information. Paragraph 14.6 states that â€Å"the best way of ensuring that information sharing is properly handled is to work within carefully worked out information-sharing protocols between agencies and professionals involved, and taking legal advice in each case where necessary. Guide to Loss and damage Social workers have been mandated with a legal duty of caring and service providers. In essence these role places the employers with responsibility of paying up damages their employees suffer while in line of duty. In the event those being taken care of suffer adverse damage as a result of social work interference, then they are entitled to sue the social work company for negligence. These may be as a result of physical damage, emotional or psychological damage. While this is the case, the law prohibits the suing of social workers when performing certain statutory functions like safeguarding children. Employers need to understand the times which their employees may be liable to protection under the law and when not. Legislation on discrimination on Personal privacy In line of duty, social workers provide aid services. In order for them to carry out these functions effectively, it is paramount for them to have knowledge of the raft of legislation that protects individuals for discrimination basing on their gender, age, sexual orientation, religion, disability or ethnicity. These are domestic laws of the United Kingdom and are complemented by European Convention on human right which protects the citizens of the United Kingdom against unjustified state interference with their life. It is always possible for government and social work agencies getting into people’s life when they are not willing. In this event then the public can resort to the human rights protection of privacy and autonomy. Social workers and social work agencies need to have knowledge of the rights and privileges granted to the masses under the European convention for both parties to avoid violating them while at the same time helping individuals who have had their rights contravened The Human rights Human rights are legal obligations that are to be adhered to universally. Human rights are defined as â€Å"the universal right to standard living that is adequate for healthy and well being of individuals and their families.†(Roosevelt 2000, p.5). The global social work perspective embodies this by stating that â€Å"The struggle for dignity and fundamental freedoms, which allows for the full development of human potentials, boils down to two words: human rights.†(IFSW 1996). With this law, special work in the United Kingdom is bound to human rights which are considered sensitive to human race and collective citizenship. The social work must then be conceptualized and sensitized to the culture in which the services are offered. Thus a social worker in England should be able to accept the culture and laws of a state or region in which he/she is working in. Conclusion Social work and social care has a pivotal role in service delivery to the society. This view cannot go unnoticed. The values, ethics of social work such as respect for humanity, equality and service to all have played a major role in helping the less privileged in the United Kingdom. The beneficiaries have included the mentally ill, the old, women and children. The United Kingdom having realized the vital role of social care came up with various laws not only to check but to guide the professionals in their field of work. These laws have been defined in various Acts of parliament, Scholarly publications and various codes of ethics and conduct of the Social work profession. Social workers and social care workers interact with different people on daily basis. In order for a harmonious and efficient system of operation to uphold, these laws and various publications have played a major role. However the legal stipulations have also had a negative side of the story being felt where they h ave had to hamper the operations of social workers and social care practitioners. Technological advancements and constant reviews of challenges that have risen in the working environment of this profession I believe can act as a catalyst to new ideas to command this noble profession to greater heights in the United Kingdom References BRITAIN, G. (2012). Health and social care act 2012: chapter 7. [S.l.], Tso. BRAYNE, H., CARR, H. (2012). Law for social workers. Oxford, Oxford University Press. BRITAIN, G. (2012). Health and social care act 2012: chapter 7. [S.l.], Tso. BARNARD, A., HORNER, N., WILD, J. (2008). The value base of social work and social care. Maidenhead, England, Open University Press. ROOSEVELT, E. (2000). Universal declaration of human rights in English, Spanish, French, Chinese, Russian, Arabic. Bedford, Mass, Applewood Books. HEALY, L. M. (2008). International social work: professional action in an interdependent world. Oxford, Oxford University Press. REAMER, F. G. (2006). Social work values and ethics. New York, Columbia University Press. BERNSTEIN, P. (1997). American work values: their origin and development. New York, State Univ. of New York Press.BANKS, S. (2012). Ethics and values in social work. Houndmills, Basingstoke, Hampshire, Palgrave Macmillan. (2004). Children Act 2004: Explanatory notes. [S.l.], Stationery Office. Source document

The Catcher in the Rye Holden Gets Influenced :: Essays Papers

The Catcher in the Rye Holden Gets Influenced Everyone gets influenced by someone, even heroes do. The Catcher in the Rye, a novel written by J. D. Salinger, talks about Holden Caulfield, a 16 year old boy that is trying to live through his problems. Holden tries to learn from his experiences as well as from the ones of others. He goes through many hard times, but he always takes them as a chance to imagine how it could have ended if he had done something about them or what cold had happened if he was not so â€Å"yellow†. Many people influence him; especially Jane Gallagher, Phoebe, and Allie. Jane Gallagher has a lot of influence on Holden. For example he states, â€Å"†¦You never even worried, with Jane, whether your hand was sweaty or not. All you knew was, you were happy. You really were.† In this scene, Holden shows how Holden feels when he gets around Jane. Holden says that he feels good and happy when around Jane. Another scene where Jane demonstrates her influence over Holden, is when he states, â€Å"†¦Then I’d crawl back to my room and call up Jane and have her come over and bandage up my guts. I pictured her holding a cigarette for me to smoke while I was†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Here, Holden imagines Jane coming over to help him, which reveals that Holden feels secure and protected by her. It also shows how Holden feels about Jane, the girl of his dreams, who he feels in love with. Jane clearly has much influence over Holden. Holden’s little brother, Allie, also influences a lot on him. For example, Holden states, â€Å"†¦You’d have liked him. He was two years younger than I was, but he was about fifty times as intelligent†¦He was also the nicest member of the family in lots of ways. He never got mad at anybody†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Holden always thinks of his brother Allie as a good and intelligent boy. When Holden thinks about Allie, Holden shows his love for him and how much he likes him. Another important scene is when Holden says, â€Å"†¦I kept walking and walking up Fifth Avenue†¦Then all of a sudden, something very spooky started happening. Every time I came to the end of a block and stepped off the goddam curb, I had this feeling that I’d never get to the other side of the street.

The Clouds and the History of Peloponnesian War

Breaking down traditions: The â€Å"Clouds† and the â€Å"History of Peloponnesian War† Undeniably, the ancient Greek society places a heavy emphasis on values and traditions. The two texts of the â€Å"Clouds† by Aristophanes and â€Å"History of the Peloponnesian war† by Thucydides, although contextually divergent, are actually conceptually convergent. Both texts are built around the central theme of the collapse of conventional values. While the breakdown of traditional values in the â€Å"History of the Peloponnesian war† is presented in a more metaphorical and symbolical manner, the downfall of conventional values in the â€Å"Clouds† is on a more direct basis.Although both texts essentially convey across the same solemn message that the relinquishment of traditional values leads to dire consequences, Aristophanes also implicitly challenges the authority of old values, and hopes to improve upon these traditions. The â€Å"Clouds† by Aristophanes is a satirical play primarily concerned with the idea of new and old education. A satire is a composition or prose used to lampoon individuals or society. They usually make use of ridicules and irony for the ostensible purpose of exposing and discouraging vice or folly.In the â€Å"Clouds†, viewers are presented with a breakdown of traditionally accepted moral and ethical values, especially those that are related to education. Aristophanes is a staunch defender of old values. Through the comedy, he wishes to show his support for logical reasoning that is well rounded and grounded in practical experience. Simultaneously, Aristophanes also wants to deliver a message to the theater audiences of fifth century that certain philosophers, particularly the sophists, undermine traditional values and thus pose as a threat to Greek society.However, by deliberately satirizing the traditional model of education with the new model throughout the comedy, Aristophanes subtly suggests his belief that if a traditional system were to be left unexamined, it might lose sight of the convictions and values upon which it was founded. This also shows that Aristophanes believes the importance of criticism in the Athenian society, and that with criticism, a society can be improved upon. In comparison to â€Å"The History of the Peloponnesian War,† there are distinctions between the ways in which traditional values are broken down.In the latter, the Mytilenian debate and the Melian dialogues are based on the war between Athens and its empire against the Peloponnesian League led by Sparta. It is more concerned with the ethics of war and punishments rather than education in â€Å"The Clouds†. Warring sparks are ignited in the light of self-interest, as the Spartans fear the growth of the Athenian power. Many moral judgments, as dire consequences of the wars, are debated upon. There are increasing political and ethical confusions in Athens as a result of the revolt of the Mytilenians and the neutral position take up by the Melians.In the 2nd Mytilenian debate, the Athenians argue over the unprecedented brutality of their actions and some become hesitant about the hurried decision to kill and enslave the citizens of Mytileans. Democracy is an important concept for the Greeks. In Cleon’s speech, however, he begins by questioning the worth of democracy and this instigates a breakdown in the traditional values. â€Å"Personally I have had occasions often enough already to observe that a democracy is incapable of governing others, and I am all the more convinced of this when I see how you are now changing your minds about the Mytilenians. (Thuy 3. 37) Cleon believes that it is part of human nature to revere the strong and take advantage of the weak, and hence he pushes for the punishment of the Mytilenians. In his speech, Cleon also employs the art of rhetoric. He stresses that the Mytilenian are more than guilty and consequentl y deserve the punishment since they are â€Å"calculated aggressors† (Thuy 36. 13). Hence, Cleon suggests that the Mytilenians are not worthy of the Athenian’s sympathy votes. Such a way of argument is a sure fire case of guilt or innocence.Making use of rhetoric devices and compromising the ideals of democracy breach the ideals of traditions in the Greek society. Unlike that in the â€Å"Clouds†, Thucydides does not show any sign of flaws of the traditional values. Although based on different circumstances, the breakdown of traditional values in â€Å"The History of the Peloponnesian war† parallels to that in the â€Å"Clouds†. The â€Å"Clouds† also utilizes extensive use of rhetoric devices. Strepsiades decides to submit to the sophist’s way of education, so that he would be able to defend himself against his creditors.The first sign of erosion of traditional value is exposed when Strepsiades decides to enroll himself in the Thinke ry under the guidance of Socrates. The ability to manipulate language and turn everything into relativism erodes the principles of traditional Athenian beliefs. Indisputably, the new philosophy wins. Sophistry is the type of linguistic device that, in the face of the weakness of traditional beliefs, undermines the value of anything. Strepsiades opines, â€Å"Holy Earth, what a voice! How divine, how awesome, how fantastic! † (363) In which Socrates responds, â€Å"Yes, you know, these are the only real divinities, all the rest is bunkum. (365) In the new system of beliefs as advocated by the sophists, there is a rejection of the traditional religion and a belief in the new â€Å"gods†. The comical way through which ideas are portrayed may be witty, but the core issue lies at the heart of the play's moral indignation at what is happening in Athens. There are possibilities for that life is being systematically corrupted by the seductive power of words, of language itsel f. Language is now a tool of human beings, modified to accommodate human beings' desires, rather than directing those desires.The underlying basis here in the â€Å"Clouds† is a direct correspondence to the ideas as presented in the Mytilenian debate, that traditionally held values are now being gradually eroded in the light of self interest. As we progress on to the rest of the texts, the tension in breaking traditional Greek values further intensifies. This is evident in the â€Å"History of the Peloponnesian War† as we advance to the Melian dialogue. The true colors of human nature are exposed under desperate conditions. The Athenians have now completed the transition from democracy and are fully embracing the epitomes of imperialism.The Athenians, in a frank and matter-of-fact manner, offer the Melians an ultimatum: to surrender and pay tribute to Athens, or be destroyed. The Melian dialogue also opens up morality issues based on destruction of the Melos. Tradition al democratic ideas are fragmented as imperialistic ideas are introduced. â€Å"Our opinion of the gods and our knowledge of men lead us to conclude that it is a general and necessary law of nature to rule whatever one can. † (Thuy 5. 105). Abuses of traditional values are reflected throughout the dialogue as both parties act in the light of their own self-interests.The Athenians make extensive use of rhetorical speeches in an attempt to exert their points and subjugate the Melians. I quote the Athenians, â€Å"You, by giving in, would save yourselves from disaster; we, by not destroying you, would be able to profit from you† (Thuy 5. 93). The use of rhetoric embodies the concept of ethical and moral relativism. It follows the core belief of the sophists that nothing is absolute and men are the measure of everything. The breakdown of traditional values is also intensified and heightened in the â€Å"Clouds†, as presented in the fiery debate between the Right and the Wrong Arguments.The debate is a direct, head on clash of traditional values versus the new ideas. Right's arguments are centered around traditional values such as respect, justice and diligence. On the opposing end, wrong proposes the idea of moral and ethical relativism. This also symbolizes a debate between nomos and physis. Justice is now no longer an inborn characteristic of humanity (physis), but rather a convention invented by the weaker party as a defense against the stronger (nomos) counterpart. Right and wrong are now merely matters of convention. Right: â€Å"Simply by presenting the case for justice†Wrong: â€Å"It’ll crumble as soon as I open my mouth. My position is that there isn’t any such thing as justice† Right: â€Å"No such thing?! † Wrong: â€Å"Well, if there is, where is it to be found? † (901) In the debate, even the Right argument, who is supposed to follow the ideals of tradition, makes use of rhetoric devices. The fundamentals of the traditional Greek society are disintegrated. Also, Pheidippides' final decision to choose the Wrong argument also represents the younger Athenian generation's inclination to modernity and discard of tradition.Although both Aristophanes and Thucydides suggest the idea of the breakdown of traditional values, Aristophanes takes it to a higher level in the â€Å"Clouds†. He acknowledges the faults with traditional values while simultaneously criticizing the use of sophistry. He depicts the Right argument and an embarrassment that utters vacuous statements such as â€Å"Be ashamed when you ought to be ashamed,† (1013). This shows that Aristophanes feels that satire and criticism are no less important than traditions, as they allow the society to morph and flourish.This is different from the â€Å"History of the Peloponnesian War† as Thucydides simply portrays the breakdown of traditional values in a negative light. Nonetheless, both texts end on a similar note. The two writers present to the viewers/readers the dire consequences as results of breaching traditional values. In the context of the â€Å"History of the Peloponnesian War†, the Melians are destroyed. Also, the very next line is history begins with the decline of the Athens and the justifications of the Melos. About the same time the Argives invaded Phliasia and were ambushed by the Phliasians and the exiles from Argos, losing about eighty men. † (Thuy 5. 115) Thucydides presumably wants to show the calamitous consequences of the actions of the Athenians, as a result of going against the traditions. The Athenians are also completely defeated with the Syracusan victory. On the other hand, in the â€Å"Clouds†, we are presented with the protagonists’ (Strepsiades) frustration that leads to destruction at the end of the play. Both texts do not move us beyond their final, unsettling acts.In the case of â€Å"Clouds†, such a paradoxi cal ending to a comedy can be interpreted as an ominous warning. Divergence away from the traditional values may seem ridiculously silly, especially when it is presented in the form of a comedy. However, the consequences are far from amusing. The very fact that there is no choral closure after the burning of the Thinkery suggests that this ending is ironically serious. Despite the genre differences of the texts, they are dissimilar presentations and interpretations of the same theme—the breakdown of traditional Greek values.Both texts show the dire consequences as a result of breaking off from the tradition, and hence suggest the writers’ sense of disapproval. However, as Woody Allen once alleged, â€Å"Tradition is the illusion of permanence† As a society progresses, old traditions are bound to be challenged. Unlike in the â€Å"History of Peloponnesian war†, Aristophanes recognizes the limits of traditional values in the â€Å"Clouds†. While both texts show the grim effects of the breakdown, Aristophanes brings it to a whole new level. Works Cited Aristophanes, and Alan Sommerstein. â€Å"The Clouds† Lysistrata And Other Plays. Penguin Classics, 2002. Print. * Thucydides, and Rex Warner. History of the Peloponnesian War. London, England:Penguin Group, 1972. Print. * Schironi, Francesca. â€Å"Thucydides’ Social Theory (Athenian Plague ; Corcyra); The Melian Dialogue. † Classical Civilization 101 Lecture. Ann Arbor, Michigan. November 8, 2011 * Schironi, Francesca. â€Å"Philosophy, Scientific Enquiry and the Greek Artistic Canon† Classical Civilization 101 Lecture. Ann Arbor, Michigan. November 29, 2011

Ethical Issues with Sweatshops

Ethical issues regarding Sweatshops Michelle Rice Business Ethics Jacqueline Newkirk Remember when you were at the mall the last time and saw a pair of Nike shoes that you just couldn’t live without? You had to buy them, for a pricey cost, and just loved them, right? We all have owned a pair or two of Nike shoes in our life. They were the â€Å"cool† shoes to have back when I was in school. The thing that we may not have known is that Nike has been using â€Å"children as young as fifteen years old† (Jennings, 2012) as employees to make these shoes.In the following report I am going to go over some major ethical issues regarding using underage children and women in foreign countries for labor. I will tell about what the conditions that these people have to work in to get paid barely enough to survive from one day to the next. The first topic that I would like to talk about is a quote coming from Nike when questioned about the conditions of their facilities and th e employees that they had working in them. The quote was â€Å"We’re damned if we do because we exploit.We’re damned if we don’t because these foreign economies don’t develop. Who’s to know what’s right? † (Jennings, 2012) Well, let’s answer that question. First of all you are not damned if you make your product out of the country. Sure, as Americans we would like the opportunity to have the business be here where we could benefit from the jobs that it would create, but we also understand the need to help these other countries build and grow. Second, how is it helping these other countries if you are taking their children out of school at the age that they are able to work in a factory? Jennings, 2012) Wouldn’t the better way to help these countries be to pay them a fair wage and help their children get a good education so that they can grow up to help build their country the way that we are wanting them to? And finally, I don’t know who to say is right in this case, but I do know that Nike was found to â€Å"make women run laps around the factory for wearing no regulation shoes to work; payment of subminimum wages; physical beatings, including with shoes, by factory supervisors; and most employees were women between the ages of fifteen and twenty eight years old. (Jennings, 2012) After having that information, I think I can safely say that Nike cannot possibly think that they should be the ones that people think are right in this situation. Now, let’s go over child labor in general and if it should be allowed. I personally could never employ a child that was under the age of 15 whether it was legal or not. By making these children work in the conditions that they make them work in, for the pay that they give them for this work is not an ethical decision that I could ever live with.In a story about child labor that I found it stated that â€Å"In the 1990s, child labour has found a new niche in the rapidly expanding export industries of some developing countries. In one small carpet factory in Asia, children as young as five were found to work from 6 in the morning until 7 at night for less than 20 cents a day. † (Child Rights, 1995) Can you imagine you five year old child going to work and working for 13 hours? These children have absolutely no childhood and are giving up their education to work so that their families can survive.I think that it is important to have a limit to the hours that a person is allowed to work in one week and that there should be a required minimum wage. Even if it were not a law, if I owned my own company I would have these standards in place for every employee that I hired. While it is important for a company to make a profit, I believe that it is also important for their employees to be healthy and safe in their working environment. When it comes to the wages that are being paid, if you are not up to a standard of income tha t is expected or needed from employees, they are going to go and try to find work somewhere else.If this happens the turnover rate at the company would be incredibly high, therefore causing the company to lose money in the long run. If you are constantly having to hire and train more people you are taking time away from the product that should be being made. So, if you want to keep happy employees that are devoted to the company that they are working for and making a product that is up to standards that are wanted by the company then they should pay them a respectable wage and keep the hours at the amount that you would expect to work yourself.One of the things that I have stated a few times in this report already is that children are not getting the education that they should be getting because they are being taken out of school to work in these factories or they are just not being sent to a school to begin with. I would make it a top priority to make educational opportunities for these children in these countries if I had a business there. I think that it is important that these countries continue to grow and prosper to get as close to the conditions that we live in here in the United States.There is no way that this can happen if we are not sending their children to school. They will have no way to know what to do to run a successful business, only to work nonstop in them. How are they ever going to learn the necessities this way? In today’s businesses they are not thinking about this. They are thinking that they can continue to send the employees here from the United States over there to run the businesses. In which case they will never be an independent society able to function on their own.I think that the reason that society focused so much on the Kathi Lee Gifford and Nike issues are because of the fame that they already have and the popularity of the products that they are selling. We see Kathy Lee Gifford as a wholesome all American Actress th at we all love. We all loved the fact that she made a clothing line, and then sold it in an affordable place such as Wal-Mart. Then we realize that the clothes that we love and are finding affordable are being made in sweatshops in Guatemala. Of course this is going to upset people because it is something that no one would have suspected.When it comes to Nike, it is the company that every athlete endorsed and wears most of the time. It is probably one of the most recognizable shoe companies in the United Stated today. I think that the thing that upsets people the most is that it is such an â€Å"American† known shoe, that people feel that it should being produced in America. So as we have learned in this report is that if you want happy, healthy employees, you need to treat them right and pay them the wages that they are actually earning.Also, children are our future and if we want our future to be prosperous and continue that way we need to make sure that they are getting th e education that they need to run things when we are no longer here. Bibliography Child Rights. (1995). Retrieved 4 1, 2012, from Children pay high price for cheap labour: http://www. unicef. org/pon95/chil0016. html Jennings, M. M. (2012). Business Ethics. Mason, OH: South-Western Cengage Learning.

Climate Change is the Biggest Global Health Threat of the 21st Century. The WritePass Journal

Climate Change is the Biggest Global Health Threat of the 21st Century. Introduction Climate Change is the Biggest Global Health Threat of the 21st Century. IntroductionGlobal Implications of Climate Change.Health effects of climate changeClimate Change and Health ModelAdaptationOther Strategies and InterventionsConclusionRelated Introduction Climate change is one of the major environmental threats facing the world today. It is referred to as â€Å"any distinct change in measures of climatic condition that could last for a long period of time such as major changes in temperature, rainfall, snow or wind patterns lasting for a decade or longer† (Allen, 2010). Over the past century, there has been a continuous rise in the levels of carbon dioxide (CO2), methane and other green gases (Frumkin et al, 2008) as well as the earth’s surface being warmed by more than 0.8 °C and by approximately 0.6 °C in the past three decades (NASA, 2007). It has been estimated that by the year 2100, the world’s mean temperature will increase by an additional 1.8 to 4.0 °C, sea levels from 0.18 to 0.59m   and a significant increase in weather variability (Solomon et al., 2007). The warming of the earth’s surface has brought about severe weather conditions such as torrential rains and flooding, droughts and storm s which are as a result of human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels which are rich in carbon and combine with oxygen in the atmosphere to release carbon dioxide that traps heat in the atmosphere (Change, 2007).   The annual emissions of CO2 and GHG have increased by 80% and 70% respectively between 1970 and 2004 (Allen, 2010). Deforestation is another human activity that has brought about the continuous change in climatic conditions (Change, 2007). Global Implications of Climate Change. It has been estimated that by the year 2015, Global Millennium Development Goals and the assurance of a safe and sustainable future will be harder to obtain due to the changes in the climate (Allen, 2010). Instances of natural disasters that have happened recently are shown below: The first hurricane ever recorded in the southern Atlantic Ocean in Brazil in 2004 and the Cyclone Nargis which raised a tidal wall 12feet high and forty kilometres long that slammed into Myanmar (Burma) in 2008 are examples of the fact that the earth is changing fast (Epstein et al, 2011 ).   In 2003, a heat wave melted 10 percent of the ice in Alps and killed more than fifty two thousand people. One thousand people were killed as a result of a drenching rain in Mumbai which also contaminated water supplies and sickened hundreds. This has led to the spread of â€Å"malaria-carrying mosquitoes, the disappearance of mountain glaciers which threatens drinking water supplies on five continents and at least 150,000 additional deaths recorded worldwide each year as well as five million years of healthy life lost to disability† (Epstein et al, 2011). Health effects of climate change Climate change affects health in several ways namely: continuous change in disease and mortality patterns, severe weather events, food and water contamination, heat wave, melting permafrost and threats to housing and public infrastructure (Costello et al., 2009, Healey et al, 2011). The major factors affecting human health are â€Å"social, political, economic, environmental and technological factors as well as urbanization, affluence, scientific developments, individual behaviour and vulnerability in terms of genetic make up, nutritional status, emotional well being, age gender and economic status† (Allen, 2010). Other potential health effects of climate change include respiratory and cardiovascular disease related to worsening air pollution, infectious diseases related to changes in vector biology, water and food contamination, nutritional shortages related to changes in food production, allergic symptoms related to increased allergen production (Heinz and Patz, 2004, Heinz et al, 2006). The way pests, parasites and pathogens affect wildlife, livestock, agriculture, forests and coastal marine organisms can also alter ecosystem composition and functions, and changes in these life support systems carry implications for human health† (Epstein, 2005). The adverse health effects of climate change will also bring about migration from flooded and inhospitable places which will encourage population growth, thereby, resulting in â€Å"increased pressure and competition for scarce resources, such as food, water and shelter† (Costello et al., 2009).   The demand for more food production will give rise â€Å"to high land loss and as a result bring about industrialization, urbanisation, sea level rises and increased flooding† (Costello et al., 2009). Figure 1 summarises the major pathways through which population health can be affected by climate change. The right hand boxes show an increase in complexity of causal process where the likelihood that health effects may be deferred or protracted while the middle boxes show the main climatic-environmental manifestations of climate change (McMichael et al., 2006). Climate Change and Health Model The effect of climate change will be greatest on countries that have made little or no contribution to its cause and those with little resources. The implementation of mitigation and adaptation helps to reduce inequity caused by negative effects on social determinants of health in the poorest countries (Costello et al., 2009). Mitigation can be described as the true prevention/intervention to lessen adverse health effects (McMichael et al., 2006). One of the most important factors in mitigating the effects of climate change on health is to bring to focus the past, present and the future events which have contributed to the transition of land, environment and the way of life of people (Healey et al, 2011).   To avoid dangerous climate change, mitigation is required to â€Å"reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase carbon biosequestration through reforestation and improved agricultural practices as well as to ensure a rapid, sustained and effective coordination of global and regional action† (Costello et al., 2009). Adaptation Climate change adaptation is required for an improved coordination and accountability of global governance. Climate change health effects can be managed when all sectors of government, civil society and academic disciplines work together to get to an expected end. It is crucial that the local communities get involved in monitoring, discussing, advocating and assisting with the process of adaptation (Costello et al, 2009). Local action is required for the prevention of local flooding and global action to make funds available as well as the needed cooperation of government and international agencies to reduce health inequalities in communities (Costello et al, 2009). Some examples of adaptation measures to climate change are shown in table 1. Table 1: Some examples of adaptation measures to climate change. (Sourced from Bulto et al, 2006) Adaptation options Current activities Future activities Strengthening primary health care and the public health system Specific health promotion and preventive programs designed to reduce population vulnerability. Educational programs of environmental risks, including climate change and their effects on human health. Continuous development of health promotion and preventive programs, increasing community participation on health issues, increasing the participation of local governments and other sectors in developing the best conditions of life. Measures to improve health surveillance systems Providing forecasts of the main climate-sensitive diseases to all levels of the National Public Health System increase number of early warning systems to predict epidemics. Continuous research to improve forecast models using the necessary indices. Incorporating new diseases and risk factors in the forecast models. Decreasing uncertainty through improved data and research on climate, epidemic, ecologic and social variables. Immunization programs, especially   for high-risk groups Maintaining the current vaccination program and prioritizing new programs. Enhancing vaccination programs immunization program and develop a prevention program for diseases. Improve sanitary conditions Developing responses to increased sanitary demands in all fields (communal, drinking water, garbage, sewage, food, and others). Maintaining contingency plans. Developing educational programs about environmental care with the participation of the community, government, and all sectors. Increasing environment care projects. Improving contingency care projects. Educational programs on radio and TV and newspapers Develop educational programs on the health risks associated with climate change   Implementing new programs on climate-health associations and communicate results to the population, governments and others. Exchange information with international researchers working on climate change and health issues Participate in international meetings. Develop new projects with participation from other countries. Other Strategies and Interventions Public health services are very essential for reducing the challenges brought about by climate change. The services can help to â€Å"monitor the health status of the community, investigate and diagnose health problems and hazards, inform and educate people regarding health issues, mobilize partnerships to solve community problems, support policies and plans to achieve health goals, enforce laws and regulations to protect health and safety, connect people to required personal health services, ensure a skilled, competent workforce, evaluate effectiveness, accessibility and quality of health services, research and apply innovative solutions† (Allen, 2010). The health and well being of humans can be increased by developing a variety of strategies for coping with climate change and reversing its ill effects such as recycling materials. These would greatly help to improve personal choices, enhance sustainability, discourage waste and clean up communities (Healey et al, 2011). Another strategy is to create awareness about the effects of climate change by ensuring individuals are educated and well informed as well as engaging people in political action to strengthen communication and ensure more equitable access to facilities (Healey et al, 2011). Interventions put in place to reduce the declination of global freshwater resources caused by rising rates of water extraction and contamination are to scale up water and sanitation services which would help to reduce infectious diseases and   avoid the health impacts of decreasing water supplies. Community participation and social mobilization are needed for addressing health concerns and creating healthy environments. The public health community needs a realistic preventive strategy to make sure healthy environments are maintained and developed from local to global needs as well as a sustainable development and protection of ecosystem services which are very important for human health (WHO, 2005). Conclusion In conclusion, climate change should be addressed as an integral part of the big challenge towards a sustainable development. This can be achieved by encouraging communities to get more involved in working towards actualizing change at multiple and socio-ecological levels (Healey et al, 2011).   Further attention needs to be placed on this issue by the government as well as the maintenance of public health infrastructure by providing adequate funds for environmental and chronic disease surveillance systems and a well trained work force (English et al, 2009).

My personal Future plan Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

My personal Future plan - Essay Example My educational background and these skills ensure that I have the analytical abilities to address issues that arise along my career. I am passionate about science, and it will ease my fitting into the Engineering department. The engineering department needs employees that are thinkers, adore teamwork and are effective communicators. Given the commonly large workload in these departments, employees should be organized so as to save time in duty execution while achieving efficiency. Through my skills, I can develop reliable and dependable communication skills that would facilitate a peaceful coexistence with other employees. Effective communication is essential to an organization’s performance, and I can facilitate it through developing relevant presentation tools. My ability to interact with others will also ensure that we can work together with my colleagues in developing efficient coordination. Though I am an active team player, I possess the initiative to perform on personal tasks while ensuring that deadlines are met. In handling meetings, the opinion of every individual count and with this skill, I will influence fellow employees. My initiative is developed through confidence and the interest to challenge my abilities in achieving required success. The engineering department needs reliable individuals, and the flexibility I have ensures that I am available whenever the organization needs my services. I am also highly organized, a critical factor to the success of any engineer and employees in the

Question answer Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Question answer - Assignment Example Appropriate strategies to deal with the volatility of the risks could help the business survive and sustain in the long run. The effective risk management structure of the company focussing on restructuring of its operations, implementing risk mitigating procedures would help the company to deal with hazards. Executive Summary In our discussion, we have considered the operations and spread of markets of Howden Joinery Group. Howden Joinery Group. is a leading supplier of kitchens and joineries. Annual reports and financial statements have been analysed. The major risks identified for the company are the interest rate risk, counterparty risk and foreign currency risk. The company can hedge the interest rate risk by investing in hedging securities which would offset the devaluation of some securities due to change in interest rates. Counterparty risk which the company may incur due to default of payment obligations of the counterparties may be hedged by selecting counterparties above a certain credit rating. Foreign currency risk may be hedged by entering transactions at spot rate. Based on past experience, annual reports, Howden Joinery Group Plc must prepare appropriate strategies for risk management in order to align the business with market conditions and to maintain adequate cash flows and liquidity. Annual report for three years from 2009 to 2011 The Annual Reports are given below for the company under consideration, i.e. Howden Joinery Gr. Plc. The data given below represents the consolidated Income Statement, Cash Flow Statement and Balance sheet for the above-mentioned years followed by a comparative study of the performance of the company from 2009 to 2011. For the year 2009, the consolidated cash flow statement of the company is given. For the year 2009, the consolidated Income statement of Howden Joinery Group Plc. is given (Howden Joinery Group Plc, 2013, p.1). For the year 2009, the consolidated Balance sheet of Howden Joinery Gr. Plc. is given. For the year 2010, the consolidated Income statement of Howden Joinery Gr. Plc. is given. For the year 2010, the consolidated Cash Flow statement of Howden Joinery Gr. Plc. is given below. For the year 2010, the consolidated Balance sheet of Howden Joinery Gr. Plc. is given below. For the year 2011, the consolidated Income statement of Howden Joinery Gr. Plc. is given. For the year 2011, the consolidated Cash Flow statement of Howden Joinery Gr. Plc. is given. For the year 2011, the consolidated Balance sheet of Howden Joinery Gr. Plc. is given. A comparative study of the performance of the company from 2009 – 2011 is given below. Based on the financial statements of the Annual Reports of Howden Joinery Gr. Plc. the following aspects have been described. Different sources of risk and nature of those risks Some of the different sources of risk for Howden Joinery Gr. Plc. are - a) Interest rate risk b) Counterparty risk, and c) Foreign currency