Wednesday, July 31, 2019

Memorandum – for Hospitality

Memorandum To: Kitchen Operations Staff From: Human Resources Date: 30th February 2013 Subject: Prevention of food poisoning. This memo is intended to inform and update employees on the work practices in the kitchen that are important in the prevention of food poisoning. Employees are expected to have a clear understanding of The Food Act 2003(NSW) and Food Regulations 2004(NSW). A copy of the Act is available with your supervisor for reference. Food handlers are legally obliged to follow these requirements. Please ensure a HACCP process is followed during the production of food.Periodic checks and audits from internal and external teams are necessary to ascertain proper HACCP processes are followed. (It should be noted that HACCP process is a legal obligation for food handlers). Employees must maintain proper personal hygiene. This is inclusive of some golden rules such as good personal grooming, treating cuts and wounds and washing hands regularly. Personal health issues that pose a risk in the workplace (food borne/airborne diseases, illnesses such as influenza or infections from open cuts/wounds) should be treated as soon as possible.Food preparation procedures include proper maintenance of the food preparation areas and food service areas. Particular care must be taken to the correct hand washing technique and the usage of gloves when handling food. Safe food storage is a legal obligation. Goods should be stored according to the manufacturer’s instruction, temperature controlled , properly packed and labelled, checked for expiration, follow stock rotation, avoid storing chemicals in old containers and store substances in separate well-lit and ventilated storerooms.Ensure that the bins are sanitised and emptied regularly. Be sure to categorise the waste storage area so that waste and recyclable items are separated. Objects and areas such as work benches , utensils , dinnerware and glassware should be cleaned and sanitised thoroughly to prevent contam ination. Regular checks to be done on temperature controlled equipment. Maintaining temperature is an important aspect of food preservation.Any malfunction of these equipment should be immediately reported and rectified. All of the above if not followed can cause food contamination which could possibly lead to Food poisoning which broadly falls under Chemical (caused by the presence of chemicals – such as cleaning agents ), Biological (harmful bacteria that is formed on food due to food spoilage from incorrect preservation of food) or Physical ( caused by glass fragments or metal shavings from incorrect preparation process) food poisoning.Signed, General Manager Human Resources Riya Jude __________________________________________________________________________________ All employees must read this memo and sign the declaration below: I read and understood the work practices in the kitchen that are important in the prevention of food poisoning. Name:| Signature:| Date:| | | | | | | | | |

Tuesday, July 30, 2019

Ernest Hemingway’s ‘Cat in the Rain’

Moya, Jon Enc1102 February 27, 2013 Midterm Essay The story I will be analyzing is ‘Cat in The Rain’ By Earnest Hemingway. The story tells a story of an American couple staying at a hotel, presumably in Italy because of the mentioning of Italians and the dialogue sometimes having the Italian language. Hemingway uses good imagery to describe the room the couple stayed in. He wrote that it faced the sea, a public garden, and a war monument. He goes on to describe the beauty of the garden and how if there was a good weather, there would always be an artist admiring it and painting it.He then mentions that Italians â€Å"come from a long way off† to visit the war monument. He does this probably to show that Italians really respect the monument and what it stands for. It then begins to rain and all the cars were gone around the monument which means that everyone was probably inside. Then story then introduces the American Wife and how she notices a cat trying to stay d ry in the rain by sheltering itself under a table. She says that she wants to get the â€Å"kitty†. After her husband offers to do it for her, she declines the offer and goes on to do it herself while her husband goes back to reading.She goes downstairs and as she passes the front desk she has small talk in Italian with the hotel owner about the weather. I presume Hemingway made it in Italian to confirm that the setting was indeed in Italy. In this time Hemingway writes about the wife’s feelings towards the owner, saying this â€Å"The wife liked him. She liked the deadly serious way he received any complaints. She liked his dignity. She liked the way he wanted to serve her. She liked the way he felt about being a hotel-keeper. She liked his old, heavy face and big hands†.Hemingway used many likes to contrast the hotel-keeper to the Husband. Hemingway makes it a point to have so many â€Å"likes† in that section to show that the wife is most likely unhapp y with her husband because she’s paying close attention to what she likes in a man. After the conversation, she goes out into the courtyard to look for the cat. A maid that was sent from the hotel-keeper then offers her an umbrella. They go on to have a conversation on how the wife was looking for a cat and that it was no longer there and that she really wanted â€Å"kitty†. The story begins to address the protagonist as â€Å"American Girl† now. Most likely to emphasize her increasing childlike behavior stated by her use of the word â€Å"kitty† now rather than cat. The girl then returns to her room passing by the office and feeling special and important when the owner bows to her. Hemingway most likely wrote that to emphasize that she really doesn’t get much attention if a simple bow would make her feel special. Back in the room, the wife has a conversation with her husband on how she wants to grow out her hair.The husband tells her she looks fin e but she goes on to say that she wants to brush her hair, and she wants a kitty, and her own silverware and candles and some new clothes. After saying this, George just tells her to shut up and get something to read. This reaction that George has to his wife is also contrasting with what the wife liked from the owner. She liked the way the owner listened to her complaints and wanted to serve her, this instance further contrasts what she has in a marriage and what she wants.The list of things wanted by the wife shows that she is unhappy with the marriage and that she wants things that are common in every marriage. She then says even if she doesn’t get those things, she still wants a cat. The story then abruptly ends with the maid knocking on the door holding a cat saying it was sent by the owner to the wife. This ending contrasts the actions of the husband and the owner even more than before. There has been much speculation as to what the cat represents in the story.One theor y that scholars and professors have is that her want for a cat shows her desire for a child. [1] In the story there is also mention of a man in a â€Å"rubber cape† passing by the square. Scholars know it isn’t Hemingway’s style to add pointless interludes in a story so they speculate that it could represent a rubber condom preventing the wife from becoming pregnant. [2] In the biography â€Å"Hemingway’s Cats†, the author writes that â€Å"Cat in The Rain† was a tribute to Hemingway’s wife Hadley.According to biographer Gioia Diliberto, Hemingway based this story on an incident with his wife when she was two months pregnant and saw a cat under a table and told Hemingway that she wanted a cat. [3] Cat in The Rain is an extremely ambiguous story and really demonstrates Hemingway’s skill of using very simple items to portray much more complex ideas. Sources [1]   Hemingway, Ernest (1925, 2006). In Our Time. New York: Scribner. [2]   Hamad, Ahmad S.. Post-Structuralist Literary Criticism and the Resisting Text. [3]   Brennen, Carlene (2006). Hemingway’s Cats. Sarasota, FL: Pineapple Press.

Space meets knowledge The impact of workplace design On knowledge sharing ?

Abstract An examination of the role the physical workplace plays in creating opportunities and barriers that influence knowledge management has become a matter of substantial debate. Design of good workplaces for knowledge sharing is considered a major challenge for any organisation. This study provides an insight into the impact of the design and use of the physical workplace on knowledge sharing. Evidence presented in this study substantiates the position that the physical presence of an employee has the potential to impact performance and knowledge management. This assessment will be of use to researchers seeking to further examine the area of knowledge management. Introduction Knowledge management, described as the intentional management of information has become increasingly important to organisations (Nonaka and Takeuchi, 1995; Alavi, 1997; Garvin, 1997; Wiig, 1997; Davenport and Prusak, 1998; Ruggles, 1998; Hansen, 1999; Zack, 1999a). In large part this has been fuelled by the exponential growth of the knowledge economy and the increasing number of knowledge workers who have become as essential for many firms competitiveness and survival (Tallman and Chacar 2010). For many emerging organisations face to face contact is essential in the dissemination of knowledge within that infrastructure (Ibid). The process of internal knowledge management is a dynamic element that must be maintained in order to produce results. Literature Review Knowledge is defined as a dynamic human or social process that allows a justification of personal belief as regards the truth (Nonaka 2011). Interaction between people, employees and consumers is one of the primary methods of communicating innovative and inspirational progress. Modern studies in the field of knowledge management have begun to shift focus from the importance of the physical workplace to those engaged in knowledge work (Becker 2004). The recognition of inherent value in the employee base adds incentive to capitalize on the low cost innovative opportunities that knowledge sharing creates (Tallman et al 2010). With critical insight established through the direct contact of the employees, the means of communication becomes a critical concern (Dakir 2012). International companies are recognizing this same value of face to face interaction as the social interaction between management sections, benefits production and development levels world-wide (Noorderhaven and Harzing 2009). In their discussion of social capital, Cohen and Prusak (2001) emphasise the importance of the physical workplace for the exchanging of knowledge, specifically the distribution of ideas amongst individuals in a situation where they could not assume that others knew what they were required to know. Becker (2004) hypothesises that the choices an organisation makes about how space is allocated and designed directly and indirectly shapes the infrastructure of knowledge networks – the dense and richly veined social systems that help people learn faster and engage more deeply in the work of the organisation. This corresponds with the Dakir (2012) argument that technology is no substitute for live interaction among the members of the organization. Davenport et al (2002) undertook a study among 41 firms that were implementing initiatives to advance the performance of high-end knowledge workers who were regarded as critical to the company’s aims. They focused upon determining th e elements that affected the knowledge work performance. Surprisingly, the issue that was most frequently dealt with by these firms involved the physical workplace – â€Å"the other common ones were information technology and management† (Davenport 2005, p. 166). Davenport (2005) emphasises that the recognition of the importance of knowledge work has grown in recent years, but that our understanding of the physical conditions in which knowledge can flourish has failed to keep pace. The inclusion of emerging communication technology has been argued to provide a better opportunity for employee interaction (Rhoads 2010). This same element of improved long distance communication is credited with diminishing the valued impromptu inspiration that many firms rely on during day to day operations (Denstadli, Gripsrud, Hjortahol and Julsrud 2013). According to Davenport et al (2002) workplace design should be seen as a key determinant of knowledge-worker performance, while we largely remain in the dark about how to align ‘space’ to the demands of knowledge work. Davenport (2005) emphasises the point that â€Å"there is a good deal said about the topic, but not much known about it† (p. 165). Most of the decisions concerning the clima te in which work takes place have been created without consideration for performance factors. This fact continues to diminish opportunities for in-house knowledge sharing and effective dissemination of intelligence (Denstadli et al 2013). Becker (2004) points out that the cultivation of knowledge networks underpins the continuing debate about office design, and the relative virtue of open versus closed space. Duffy (2000) confirms these views when he admits that early twenty-first-century architects â€Å"currently know as little about how workplaces shapes business performance as early nineteenth-century physicians knew how diseases were transmitted before the science of epidemiology was established† (p. 371). This makes every emerging decision regarding effective knowledge sharing critical to the development of any organisation. Deprez and Tissen (2009) illustrate the strength of the knowledge sharing process using Google’s approach: â€Å"one company that is fully aware of its ‘spatial’ capabilities†. The spatial arrangements at Google’s offices can serve as a useful example of how design can have a bearing on improving the exchange of knowledge in ways that also add value to the company. The Zurich ‘Google engineering’ office is the company’s newest and largest research and development facility besides Mountain View, California. In this facility, Deprez and Tissen (2009) report: â€Å"Google has created workspaces where people literally ‘slide into space’ (i.e. the restaurant). It’s really true: Google Is different. It’s in the design; it’s in the air and in the spirit of the ‘place’. It’s almost organizing without management. A workplace becomes a ‘workspace’, mobilizing the collectiv e Google minds and link them to their fellow ‘Zooglers’ inside the Zurich office and to access all the outside/external knowledge to be captured by the All Mighty Google organisation† (2009, p. 37). What works for one organisation may not work for another and this appears to be the case in particular when it comes to Google (Deprez et al 2009). Yet, some valuable lessons in how the workplace can be used to good effect can be gained from Google’s operations. For this precise reason, research was carried out at Google Zurich to provide both theoretical and managerial insights into the impact of the design and use of the physical workplace on knowledge sharing (Ibid). Studies comparing the performance of virtual and co-located teams found that virtual teams tend to be more task oriented and exchange less social information than co located ones (Walther & Burgoon 1992; Chidambaram 1996). The researchers suggest this would slow the development of relationships and strong relational links have been shown to enhance creativity and motivation. Other studies conclude that face-to-face team meetings are usually more effective and satisfying than virtual ones, but nevertheless virtual teams can be as effective if given sufficient time to develop strong group relationships (Chidambaram 1996). This research implies the importance of facilitating social interaction in the workplace, and between team members (virtual and co-located) when the team is initially forming. Hua (2010) proposes that repeated encounters, even without conversation, help to promote the awareness of co-workers and to foster office relationships. McGrath (1990) recommends that in the abs ence of the ability to have an initial face-to-face meeting other avenues for building strong relationships are advised to ensure the cohesiveness and effectiveness of the team’s interaction. So although interaction alone is not a sufficient condition for successful collaboration, it does indirectly support collaboration. Nova (2005) points out that physical proximity allow the use of non verbal communication including: different paralinguistic and non-verbal signs, precise timing of cues, coordination of turn-taking or the repair of misunderstandings. Psychologists note that deictic references are used in face-to-face meetings on a regular basis, which refers to pointing, looking, touching or gesturing to indicate a nearby object mentioned in conversation (Ibid). Newlands et al (2002) analysed interactions of two groups performing a joint task in either face-to-face or a video conference system. They found that deictic hand gesture occurred five times more frequently in the face-to-face condition the virtual interaction. More recent research has found that extroverts gesticulate for longer and more often in meetings than introverts (Jonnson 2006). Barbour and Koneya (1976) famously claimed that 55 per cent of communication is non-verbal communication, 38 per cent is done by tone of voice, and only 7 per cent is related to the words and content. Clearly non-verbal communication is a key component of interaction and virtual interaction systems need to replicate this basic need, especially in the early stages of team forming or when the team consists of a high proportion of extroverts. The physical co-location of teams also facilitates collaboration (Ibid). A seminal piece of research carried out by Allen (1977) demonstrated that the probability of two people communicating in an organisation is inversely proportional to the distance separating them, and it is close to zero after 30 metres of physical separation. Furthermore, proximity helps maintain task and group awareness, because when co-located it is easier to gather and update information about the task performed by team members (Dakir 2012). A recent survey of workers at highly collaborative companies found that most â€Å"collaborative events† are short (with 34% lasting fewer than 15 minutes) and the majority take place at the desk (Green 2012). It is likely that these impromptu interactions relate to sharing information (perhaps on the PC) or answering queries rather than lengthy intense discussion and development of joint ideas. Interactions at desks may facilitate tacit knowledge sharing by overhearing relevant conversations between team members, but such interactions can also be considered a distraction if not relevant (Denstadli et al 2013). Methodology There are two acknowledged methodological approaches: quantitative and qualitative (Creswell 2005). The quantitative method involves identifying variables in a research question which are then utilized in order to collate numerical data (Ibid). The qualitative research is open to interpretation allowing personal answers to be incorporated into the study (Creswell 2005). The researcher considered both options in order to complete the necessary goals.Types of DataThere are two forms of data: primary, or newly generated data, or secondary, previous data generated within existing studies (Creswell 2005). This study required the acquisition of primary data creating the need for relevant instruments. A survey with 5 open-ended questions has been created and subsequently conducted with centred on 548 employees working at Google Zurich. This was done in order to explore the perceptions of Google employees with regard to the environment in which they work with a focus on factors that affect knowledge sharing in the work environment.Methods of Data CollectionThe qualitative data analysis employed a Content Analysis technique to reveal participant perceptions of their work environment. The survey questions were designed to explore employee perceptions regarding the following dimensions: 1) Activities that allow for increased exchange of knowledge; 2) Advantages of frequent interaction with colleagues; 3) Individuals or groups dependent on the frequent interaction with co-workers orgroup members; 4) Factors that facilitate interaction within the workplace 5) Factors that inhibit interaction with others in the workplace. Survey participants responded to five open-ended questions and rated their answers using a five-point Likert scale where 5 was ‘most important’. Using a Content Analysis approach (Creswell 2005; Leedy and Ormrod 2005; Neuendorf 2002), the interview responses were analysed. Content Analysis is a qualitative data reduction method that generates categories from key words and phrases in the interview text; it is an evidence-based process in which data gathered through an exploratory approach is systematically analysed to produce predictive or inferential intent (Creswell 2005). Content Analysis was used to identify themes or common concepts in participants’ perceptions regarding the culturally and environmentally distinctive factors that affect interaction in the workplace (Neuendorf, 2002). This process permitted the investigator to quantify and analyse data so that inferences could be drawn. The Content Analysis of survey interview text was categorically coded to reflect various levels of analysis, including key components, words, sentences, or themes (Neuendorf 2002). These themes or key components were then examined using relational analysis to determine whether there were any relationships between the responses of the subjects. The analysis was conducted with Nvivo8 ® software which enables sorting, categorising, and frequency counts of invariant constituents (relevant responses). Content Analysis was used to critically evaluate the survey responses of the study participants, providing in-depth information regarding the factors related to workplace interaction. Sample Respondent Characteristics The invited population consisted of 675 individuals and a total of 548 individuals participated in the survey resulting in a response rate of 81 per cent. Of these 548 completed surveys, 35 responses were discarded because the respondents only partially completed the survey. The final sample consisted of 513 respondents. The key characteristics of these respondents are summarized in Table 4-1.Table 4-1 Sample Respondent Characteristics FactorDescriptionFrequency EducationHigh School Bachelor Degree Certificate Degree Master Degree PhD Degree Other:15 118 19 231 121 9 Tenure< 2 years 2-5 years > 5 years153 331 29 Time Building Use< 1 year 1 year 2 years > 2 years140 102 271 0 Time Desk Use< 3 months 3-6 months 7-12 months > 12 months143 159 126 85 Age< 20 years 21-30 years 31-40 years 41-50 years > 50 years0 216 255 35 7 GenderMale Female428 85 MobiltyZurich Office Other Google Office Home Office Travelling Other88.9% 3.9% 3.9% 2.7% 0.5% PositionEngineering Sales and Marketing GandA Other:428 12 14 59 NationalityGermany Switzerland United States France Poland United Kingdom Romania Hungary Netherlands Sweden Spain Australia Russian Federation < 10 respondents73 62 35 33 28 27 24 23 17 16 14 13 12 136 Survey Findings In order to provide an audit trail of participant responses to the thematic categories that emerged from the data analysis, discussion of the findings precedes the tables of data, within a framework consisting of the five survey questions. An overall summary is provided at the conclusion of the discussion of findings. During the analysis of data, common invariant constituents (relevant responses) were categorically coded and associated frequencies were documented. Frequency data included overall frequency of occurrence as well as frequencies based on rating level (5 = most important to 1 = least important). Invariant constituents with a frequency of less than 10 were not included in the tables. Study conclusions were developed through an examination of the high frequency and highly rated invariant constituents in conjunction with the revealed thematic categories.Question 1: Main Activities that Allow Exchange of KnowledgeTable 4-2 provides high frequency invariant constituents (relev ant responses) by survey participants demonstrating themes within the data for Question 1. Thematically, the analysis revealed the following primary perceptions of participants in terms of main activities that allow knowledge exchange: (a) meetings of all types; (b) whiteboard area discussions; (c) video conferencing; (d) email, and (e) code reviews. These elements demonstrated a high frequency of importance ratings, and a moderate percentage of respondents rated these elements as ‘most important’ (rating 5). Other themes revealed through the analysis included the importance of writing and reading documentation, Instant Messaging (IM) text chat, Internet Relay Chat (IRC), and extracurricular/social activities. All other invariant constituents with a frequency of greater than 10 are shown in Table 4-2.Table 4-2 Data Analysis Results for Question 1: Main Activities Allowing for Exchange of Knowledge Invariant ConstituentOverall number (Frequency)By Rating 5=Most important n=51354321 Informal discussion/face to face mtgs/stand ups35114977603332 Formal planned meetings/conference room mtgs2184061563823 Email207747432216 Lunches/Dinners64910151812 Whiteboard area discussions/brainstorming5822131094 Video Conferencing (VC)5841620144 Code Reviews515162046 Writing/Reading Documentation476813164 IM/Text Chat/IRC4610161073 â€Å"Extracurricular Activities† (e.g., pool, socializing, Friday office drinks, etc.)4522151016 Writing/Reading docs specifically wiki pages/sites34210697 Chat (unspecified in person vs. text)3387873 Techtalks2745675 Training/presentations23133106 Mailing lists21102522 Shared docs/doc collaboration1703554 Read/write design docs specifically1202505 Telephone/phone conversations1203243Question 2: Main Advantages of Frequent Interaction with ColleaguesTable 4-3 provides high frequency invariant constituents (relevant responses) by survey participants demonstrating themes within the data for Question 2. Thematically, t he analysis revealed the following elements representing the primary perceptions of participants in terms of the main advantages to frequent interaction with colleagues: (a) knowledge and information exchange and transfer; (b) staying current on projects and processes; (c) social interaction; (d) learning from others; (e) faster problem resolution; (f) efficient collaboration; and (g) continuous and early feedback. The following themes received a high frequency of importance ratings and a large percentage of ‘most important’ and ‘important’ ratings (rating 5 and 4, respectively) included: knowledge sharing, staying in touch and up to date, learning from others, faster resolution/problem solving, better collaboration, and feedback. Although socialising was revealed to be a strong overall theme, it also demonstrated lower importance ratings. Other themes revealed through the analysis are provided in Table 4-3.Table 4-3 Data Analysis Results for Question 2: Ma in Advantages of Frequent Interaction Invariant ConstituentOverall number (Frequency)By Rating 5=Most important n=51354321 Knowledge sharing/exchange of information/Knowledge transfer149753919124 Staying in touch/up to date/ more info on projects and processes11358281782 Socializing/social interaction7451035186 Learning/learning from others/learning new things/increased knowledge base7217281485 Understand problems/needs – faster resolution and quicker problem solving7025241146 Better/more efficient collaboration67428953 Feedback/continuous feedback/early feedback661729893 New and better ideas/flow of ideas/creativity/ brainstorming6525151474 Teamwork/being part of a team/teambuilding5110121892 Get work done/efficiency/speed462613241 Fun4421115115 Better understanding of what others are doing and how/workloads4415171002 Everyone on same page/shared vision/focus on goals of team32109652 Better personal contact and easy interaction27561123 Avoid misunderstanding/work duplication27810441 Helping others/getting help (when stuck)26391031 Good/happy atmosphere/work environment2412858 Networki ng2219624 Motivate each other/inspiration2151582 Other/new perspectives/viewpoints18210312 Improving quality of work/performance1615910 Work synchronization1628141 Productivity1231431 Knowing latest news/innovations1203216 Better communication1011521Question 3: Individuals or Groups that are Dependent on Frequent InteractionTable 4-4 provides high frequency invariant constituents (relevant responses) given by survey participants demonstrating themes within the data for Question 3. Thematically, the analysis revealed the following elements representing the primary perceptions of participants in terms of individuals or groups that are dependent on frequent interaction of the participant: (a) my team/project teammates/peers; and (b) managers. The first theme demonstrated a high frequency of importance ratings with a moderate percentage of ‘most important’ and ‘important’ ratings (rating 5 and 4, respectively). Although the theme of managers was revealed to be a relatively strong overall theme, it also demonstrated lower importance ratings. Other themes revealed through the analysis are shown in Table 4-4.Table 4-4 Data Analysis Results for Question 3: Individual/groups dependent on frequent interaction of participant Invariant ConstituentOverall number (Frequency)By Rating 5=Most important n=51354321 My team/project teammates/peers12887191435 Managers/PMs484241163 Users/customers/clients357121042 All reports/related teams34717442 Engineering teams (various)28188200 Recruiting team/staffing1753630 Geo Teams1576200 Operations teams1423522 All of them1191010 HQ1133122 Other engineers using my project/peer developers of my tool1015310Question 4: Factors Facilitating Easy InteractionTable 4-5 provides high frequency invariant constituents (relevant responses) by survey participants demonstrating themes within the data for Question 4. Thematically, the analysis revealed the following elements representing the primary perceptions of participants about factors that facilitate easy interaction: (a) common, proximal, and open workspace areas; (b) common functional areas; (c) sufficient and available meeting facilities; (d) excellent communication tools; and (e) video conference facilities. The theme of open and common workspace areas/shared office space demonstr ated a high frequency of importance ratings with a very large percentage of ‘most important’ ratings (rating 5). Other revealed themes, particularly the second listed theme, demonstrated relatively high overall frequency, but these themes did not demonstrate the strength of importance that the first theme did. Other themes and invariant constituents revealed through the analysis are shown in Table 4-5.Table 4-5 Data Analysis Results for Question 4: Factors Facilitating Easy Interaction Invariant ConstituentOverall number (Frequency)By Rating 5=Most important n=51354321 Open and Common workspace areas/shared office space/desk locations/sitting together175103342594 Common shared Areas (e.g., Kitchen, play/game rooms, lounges, library, etc.)173406642178 Enough facilities for meetings/availability of meeting and conference areas90192730122 Great communication tools (email, VC, chats, dist. Lists, online docs, wireless, VPN, mobile†¦)80113014187 Video Conference meeting rooms/facilities78192518124 Onsite lunch/dinner/common dining area (free food and eating together)5071511134 Whiteboard areas for informal meetings431018771 Corporate culture/open culture/ open communication culture431811932 Email421113954 Casual and social environment/open atmosphere36195921 People: easy going, friendly, smart, knowledgeable, willing to help35149336 Social Events2836577 Company calendar/planned ops for meeting/ scheduled meetings1937621 Geographic co-location/same time zone1374200 Travel/trips to other offices1212135 Chat (non-specific t ext or in person)1124302 IM/internet chat1051112 MOMA/social networking/wiki pages/company docs1010342Question 5: Factors Inhibiting Interaction with OthersTable 4-6 provides high frequency invariant constituents (relevant responses) by survey participants demonstrating themes within the data for Question 5. Thematically, the analysis revealed a single strong element and several elements with less relevance as inhibiting factors. The physical geographic differences – specifically the time zone differences – were noted by a majority of participants as the most important element that inhibited interaction with others. Study participants perceived their overscheduled and busy work lives, noise levels in their workspaces, and shared work environments to be contributing inhibitory factors with regard to interaction with others. These elements also demonstrated high frequencies of importance ratings with a moderate percentage of ‘most important’ ratings (rating 5). Other themes revealed through the analysis are shown in Table 4-6.Table 4-6 Data Analysis Results for Question 5: Factors Inhibiting Interaction with Others Invariant ConstituentOverall number (Frequency)By Rating 5=Most important n=51354321 Physical Geographic distance/ timezone differences16411536931 Very busy/Overscheduled people/ overbooked calendars/ too many meetings4517161020 Crowded/noisy environment/ noise in shared space33196440 Defective VCs/ VC suboptimal/ VC equipment not working2597720 No meeting rooms available2286620 Too few VC rooms in some locations / lack of available VC rooms1949501 Open Space: no privacy, interruptions/ disruptions1958321 Information overload/ too much email1562610 Large office building/building size and layout/ too many people, difficult to find people15114000 Team split between multiple sites or large distance between team members in same bldg1545420 Need more whiteboards/lack of informal areas with whiteboards1135210 Language barrier: lack of correct English/not knowing colloquial lang. or nuances1151311 Lack of time/deadlines1152121 Different working hours within same time zone1053200 Discussion Both the literature and the survey have illuminated interesting facets of the work environment and the need for personal communication. The analysis of the 513 participants’ responses to five open-ended questions from the employee perception survey revealed patterns of facilitating and inhibiting factors in their work environment. Nonaka (2011) clearly illustrates this point with the argument that the communal environment promotes a standard of communication not found in the technological alternatives. Further, the shift away from the organization to the person orientation provides a fundamental benefit to every employee (Becker 2004). With a rising recognition of individual value, the organisation is building employee trust. Participants in this study preferred frequent, informal opportunities for the exchange of knowledge. The opportunity for growth was centred on the capacity to exchange concepts in a free and easy manner (Nonaka 2011). The evidence presented in this study demonstrates that these opportunities were more valued by team members with high knowledge exchange needs. This is line with the increased depth of knowledge and ability to meet technical needs through employee communication (Tallman et al 2010). A combination of professional advice can benefit the entire production and development process. In this study, transactions among participants were often brief, and were perceived to require limited space – often just stand-up space – with noise-regulating options not found in open-office environments. Dakir (2012) demonstrates the environment has the potential to add to or detract from employee communication, making this factor a critical consideration. Spontaneous and opportunistic knowledge-sharing transactions were valued, and technology provided a platform for this type of knowledge exchange to occur. This evidence from the survey corresponds with the literature illustrating that increased communication and sharing in the workplace enhances the entire operation, as well as providing new and fresh opportunities and innovations (Tallman et al 2010). The research at Google provides further support for the view of some leading companies who strongly believe that having workers in the same place is crucial to their success (Noorderhaven et al 2009). Yahoo’s CEO Marissa Mayer communicated via a memo to employees that June 2013, any existing work-from-home arrangements will no longer apply. Initial studies theorized that the work at home system would provide a better platform for workers, even on a local level (Dakir 2012). Many points of the memo cited in this Yahoo example, parallel the literature presented in this study. Her memo stated (Moyer 2013): â€Å"To become the absolute best place to work, communication and collaboration will be important, so we need to be working side-by-side.† This is clearly in line with the Coehen and Prusak (2001) assertion that the physical workplace is a critical element of the dynamic business. â€Å"That is why it is critical that we are all present in our offices. Some of the be st decisions and insights come from hallway and cafeteria discussions, meeting new people, and impromptu team meetings.† This element of the her reasoning is nearly identical to the argument presented by Dakir (2012), that a successful company do so, in part, by promoting communication and teamwork in the office, the technical alternatives are not enough. â€Å"Speed and quality are often sacrificed when we work from home. We need to be one Yahoo!, and that starts with physically being together†¦.Being a Yahoo isn’t just about your day-to-day job, it is about the interactions and experiences that are only possible in our offices† (Moyer 2013). This section is directly in line with emerging studies citing the vital nature of the interaction and face to face employee contact (Heerwagen et al. 2004). This study has clearly demonstrated that Mayer is not alone in her thinking; Steve Jobs operated in a similar fashion as well (Davenport et al 2002). Despite being a denizen of the digital world, or maybe because he knew all too well its isolating potential, Jobs was a strong believer in face-to-face meetings. â€Å"There’s a temptation in our networked age to think that ideas can be developed by email and iChat,† he said. â€Å"That’s crazy. Creativity comes from spontaneous meetings, from random discussions. You run into someone, you ask what they’re doing, you say ‘Wow,’ and soon you’re cooking up all sorts of ideas† (Isaacson, 2011, p. 431). This assertion by Jobs closely resembles the argument presented in the Rhoads (2010) study that found a clear correlation between the communication capacity and opportunity for successful innovation and progress. Following this philosophy led Jobs to have the Pixar building designed to pr omote encounters and unplanned collaborations.Mayer’s former colleague at Google agrees (Ibid). Speaking at an event in Sydney February 2013, Google CFO Patrick Pichette said that teleworking is not encouraged at Google. This reflects the consensus that is emerging that time in the office is not only valuable but necessary to sustained competition in the industry (Denstadli et al 2013). Pichette believes that working from home could isolate employees from other staff. Companies like Apple, Yahoo! and Google are holding on to (or have started embracing) the belief that having workers in the same place is crucial to their success (Dakir 2012). This appears to be based on the view that physical proximity can lead to casual exchanges, which in turn can lead to breakthroughs for products. Heerwagen et al (2004) illustrates that it is evident that â€Å"knowledge work is a highly cognitive and social activity†. Non-verbal communication is complex and involves many unconscious mechanisms e.g. gesture, body language, posture, facial expression, eye contact, pheromones, proxemics, chronemics, haptics, and paralanguage (Denstadli et al 2013). So, although virtual interaction can be valuable it is not a replacement for face-to-face interaction, particularly for initial meetings of individuals or teams. Furthermore, the increase in remote working has indicated that face-to-face interaction is important for motivation, team-building, mentoring, a sense of belonging and loyalty, arguably more so than in place-centred workgroups (Deprez and Tissen 2009). Conclusion The role of knowledge management in the workplace has become an increasingly valuable segment of a company’s resources. This study examined the practice of working remotely versus employee interaction in the work place providing many illuminating developments. Despite the early optimism that emerging technology was going to provide the end all to employee work habits have proven less than fully realized. The evidence in this study has continuously illustrated an environment that requires the innovative, face to face interaction in order to maintain a competitive edge in the industry. Further, the very environment that promotes this free exchange of ideals is not adequately substituted by technology. In short, the evidence provided in this study has clearly demonstrated the advantage that the in house employee has over the remote worker. The impromptu encounters between employees are very often the elements needed for progress. What is clear is that in order for a business to capitalize on their full range of available resources virtually requires, face to face personal interaction in order to fully realize the firms full potential. In the end, it will be the combination of leadership, teamwork and innovation that provides business with the best environment, not necessarily how much technology is available. References Dalkir, K. 2005. Knowledge management in theory and practice. Amsterdam: Elsevier/Butterworth Heinemann. Denstadli, J., Gripsrud, M., Hjorthol, R. and Julsrud, T. 2013. Videoconferencing and business air travel: Do new technologies produce new interaction patterns?. Transportation Research Part C: Emerging Technologies, 29 pp. 1–13. Nonaka, I. and Takeuchi, H. 2011. The wise leader. Harvard Business Review, 89 (5), pp. 58–67. Noorderhaven, N. and Harzing, A. 2009. Knowledge-sharing and social interaction within MNEs.Journal of International Business Studies, 40 (5), pp. 719–741. Rhoads, M. 2010. Face-to-Face and Computer-Mediated Communication: What Does Theory Tell Us and What Have We Learned so Far?. Journal of Planning Literature, 25 (2), pp. 111–122. Tallman, S. and Chacar, A. 2011. Knowledge Accumulation and Dissemination in MNEs: A Practice-Based Framework. Journal of Management Studies, 48 (2), pp. 278–304.

Monday, July 29, 2019

Personal&Professional Development Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Personal&Professional Development - Essay Example I should not wait for a prompt to do action. I should be able to initiate it especially if I want my team to do the same. Creating an action plan for both myself and for my team will clearly guide everyone of the expected outcomes and there is no excuse to just wait for the others and waste time. As a manager, I should be aware not only of my own learning style but that of my team members’ so we can figure out a way to work together better. Learning Style (Honey & Mumford 1986) Reflective Practice (Schon 1983) Stages of Reflection (Moon 1999) Interpersonal Interaction Managing Conflicts I come from a very peace-loving family. We get to resolve our personal issues quickly. However, stepping into the real world entails knowing how to adapt to various personalities and being able to manage the conflicts that may inevitably crop up. I am inconsistent in my competence in handling conflicts, and that depends on the gravity of the issue and the strength of the personalities and the p ositions of the people involved. A manager needs know how to establish and maintain harmonious relationships with diverse people and groups. He possesses high emotional intelligence, maturity and understanding of people coming from various backgrounds and temperaments. To quote Buckingham & Coffman (1999) again, â€Å"The key to excellent performance, of course, is finding the match between your talents and your role.† A manager should know how to blend the talents and personalities of his team. Mastering such combinations will result in excellent performance of the whole team. Styles of Managing Interpersonal Conflict (Ruble & Thomas 1976) First, break all the rules: What the world's greatest managers do differently. (Buckingham & Coffman, 1999) Strategies and techniques for self-development Reflective Thinking From my youth, I have come to value self-introspection. I always analyze the things I have done, have said and have felt and thought to be lessons for me to learn fro m. This greatly helps me in my next moves. Most of the time when I do reflect on my actions, I come up with the right outcomes. As for my weaknesses, I need to keep reflecting on my performance to know where I need improvement on. My self-evaluation will help me identify these weaknesses and turn them into strengths. I know I am continuously evolving, and self-actualization is my goal. I need to be able to encourage my team members to likewise be more reflective in their tasks as this leads to good planning and foresight necessary in accomplishing goals successfully. Reflective Practice (Schon 1983) Stages of Reflection (Moon 1999) Learning Cycle (Kolb 1984) Personal leadership approaches Empowerment I am known to be an encourager and people have told me I have the ability to bring out the best in them. This may be due to the positive disposition I have that I mostly focus on the goodness and the potentials of people instead of their flaws. I, myself would want to be led by someone who inspires me to be better and not to settle for mediocrity. I believe that a manager should be an enabler. He sees the potentials of the people under him and harnesses their strengths. People may manifest varying degrees of greatness. The manager sees

Sunday, July 28, 2019

Effective parenting Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Effective parenting - Essay Example This essay is a critique of effective parenting. It highlights the practices that can enhance proper parenting, and the behaviors that parents need to avoid for the growth of their children. It is important for parents to realize that the manner in which they speak and the gestures they make amongst other expressions are significant for the growth of their children. Self-esteem in children largely depends on the behavior of parents Brooks (1997 p 67). For example, a little congratulation for good actions among the children means a lot in their development of self esteem. Self esteem is accomplished especially when the children are allowed to undertake tasks independently, which makes them realize their potential. This means that parents need to avoid trivializing the efforts of their children. The initial steps of a child mean a lot in the development of walking ability (Snow et al. 2001 p 103). It is therefore important for parents to ensure that they do not discourage their children by not showing appreciation of their efforts. Insults and quarrels are a major threat to effective development of children. Parents need to ensure that they use simple words when they warn the children concerning undesirable behavior. Rather than using insults, they need to use strong but controlled words to avoid generating frustration amongst the children (Ranga & Denise, 2006 53). Words such as â€Å"your brain must be very thick!† need not be used. Rather, parents are supposed to offer an understandable explanation of why children should act in a particular way and not the other. In essence, human beings learn from mistakes. Children should be allowed to learn effectively from their mistakes. Rewards are important in encouraging repetition of desirable actions. Children need to be reminded often regarding particular actions that were desirable to parents or other grown ups. Their initiatives also need to be

Saturday, July 27, 2019

UK General Elections Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

UK General Elections - Assignment Example Basically, this is achieved through awarding political freedom to all people as it is the main platform for the masses to express themselves. The values of liberal democracy are reflected in its basic system where continuous efforts are undertaken to see that no group enjoys special privileges in the society. The values of liberal democracy can therefore be found in a society which struggles to develop through talent and merit rather than rank, privilege and status. The values of liberal democracy are also seen in programmes and policies aimed at restricting the Government intervention in political, economic and moral matters of the citizens. To enrich a democracy with these values, the political system is generally supported by a written constitution which clearly defines the powers and responsibilities of the executive, judiciary and legislature (liberal democracy). Presently, the UK general elections are held as per the First Past the Post (FPTP) voting system. It is also known as plurality system, relative majority system or winner- take-all system. In this, a voter votes for a single candidate and the majority vote-getter among all the contesting candidates would be the winner in a particular constituency. For example, in a 1000-voter constituency, a candidate getting 4oo votes would be the winner if the other 3 contesting candidates receive 200 votes each. Though 400 out of 1000 votes is a clear minority, the number is higher than that of any of the other 3 candidates. It indicates that this system is endowed with the flaw of electing candidates / parties with minority vote, as the majority vote is divided among several contestants / parties. This is the most disadvantageous system but unfortunately most of the world democracies have been adopting this system for many years. This has brought embarrassment to the English in several elections including the 1983 general election in which Conservatives bagged 397 seats in the House of Commons with a minority vote (Hallowell, 2002, P 103). This situation has repeated in 2005 general elections too in the UK with the Labour party gaining power with a minority vote. The resulting disadvantage is that, though it is a representative government, majority voice is not heard in legislatures. This system has the capacity to curtail the political freedom of the majority of people, the basic ingredient of the liberal democracy. To put it the other way, the total number of seats gained by a particular party in the general elections would not be proportionate to the total number of votes received by it. 3 The alternative systems Preferential voting system There are some alternative systems too with regard to voting in a democracy. Let us discuss some of them. The preferential voting system is a method in which the voters are asked to express their preference of candidates in order of priority. In this, voters generally cast their votes by ranking the participating candidates in order of their priority. On the voting slip or card, the names of all candidates are printed and empty boxes are provided against each candidate. When there are 5 candidates, a voter provides rankings for all of them indicating 1,2,3,4 and 5 depending on his/her preference. Most

Friday, July 26, 2019

Juvenile Justice Laws Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Juvenile Justice Laws - Essay Example "Juvenile justice workers fulfill a dual role: a public safety and accountability role, which involves the management of youths' behavior, and a rehabilitation and youth development role, which involves mentoring and coaching youths in pro-social skill development. This duality is a source of frustration as well as opportunity among the juvenile justice workers." (Howe, Clawson, and Larivee, 2007, p 35). Therefore, an effective juvenile justice worker has great scope for assisting the society through the management of the behavior of the youths as well as helping the rehabilitation and youth development through mentoring and coaching youths in developing various pro-social skills. In other words, for juvenile justice workers to work within the field of juvenile justice means a way to contribute to the development of the society as well as the correction and rehabilitation of the youth. One of the fundamental duties of the juvenile justice workers is make sure that the young offenders follow all the strict rules and laws that apply within this field and the effectiveness of a juvenile justice worker depends on how competently he carries out this duty. It is essential to comprehend that juvenile justice falls into the area of corrections and human services work which offer these workers the opportunity of helping the society and the youth. In ensuring the strict obser

Thursday, July 25, 2019

Business law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 2

Business law - Essay Example Another person was warned about the same issue. The three employees were Alison, Darren, and Peter. Alison had been with the organisation from the beginning itself. She is coloured (Algerian/French origin) and also suffers from dyslexia. Alison is a case worker and occasionally (and unofficially) doubles up as an accounts secretary though she does not relish the work. It appears that one of her duties in this area is to be in charge of petty cash. Peter who works in the stores department as an assistant clerk had been with the organisation only for the past six months. Peter is also an assistant clerk even though his position or duties are not mentioned here. Alison was also subject to discriminatory remarks by Peter and Darren when they addressed her â€Å"that she is fat, black and blind and should go back to the refugee camp she came from†. It is assumed that Alison has become a citizen of UK since she has been with the organisation for since its inception and that enough t ime has passed for her to obtain one. With regard to a legal angel there are three issues here. The first is that a dismissal has occurred here for two employees. The statutes of the UK Employment Act and the Employment Rights Act 1986 can be valid in this case. The second is that one of the employees (Alison) may be covered under the Disability Discrimination Act 1995 (DDA) because she suffers from Dyslexia. As per the Act, â€Å"Subject to the provisions of Schedule 1, a person has a disability for the purposes of this Act if he has a physical or mental impairment which has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on his ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities† (Disability, Part I). David’s’ Cave can come under the preview of the Act because, â€Å"The DDA covers different sorts of situations, for example, employment, goods, services and facilities, transport, education and premises† (What is the DDA). Many managers do not appreciate

Wednesday, July 24, 2019

Colonial America between 1492-1763 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Colonial America between 1492-1763 - Essay Example King Philip’s War, also known as â€Å"Metacom’s Rebellion,† a war between the colonists of New England and the various tribes of the surrounding areas, was but one example of the clash of cultures between Native Americans and Europeans; however, it is significant in history as a clash of cultures for a number of reasons, including its number of casualties, the fact that there were no clear divisions along cultural lines, and that it marked the end of hope that the Native American could be integrated into European society in the New World. In 1675, the Wampanoag chief Metacom resolved to drive the settlers out of what he saw as his land. His father, Massasoit, had ruled with gentle wisdom during his time as sachem (chief) of the Wampanoag, going so far as to befriend the settlers and set up trade with them, but Metacom saw things differently.3 It was up to him, he felt, to drive the settlers off his lands, or else he would one day be left with nothing.4 He told E uropean authorities very simply, â€Å"I am determined not to live until I have no country.†5 The preceding years of peace and harmony, of trade and prosperity between settlers and Native Americans were quickly coming to an end. Ironically, this great conflict was almost avoided. A man by the name of John Sassamon, who had grown up as a Wampanoag but attended Harvard College where he had been given his English name, warned the governor of Plymouth Colony that Metacom had sent word to various tribes to gather and attack.6 Sassamon pleaded with the governor to be allowed to stay at Plymouth Colony, fearing revenge for his warning; the governor heartily dismissed him and sent him back to his tribe.7 This action would prove to be dire in starting the conflict between the two cultures. It did not take long for hostilities to come to a climax. Sassamon was discovered a week later, his body found in a frozen pond with the neck broken.8 The governor was alarmed, and recalling the war nings he had been given, decided to assert his authority over the Native Americans.9 When he received reports that it was two Wampanoag warriors that had been seen murdering Sassamon, he entered the village of Metacom, dragged the warriors back to Plymouth Colony, and had them tried and executed in short order.10 To Metacom, this was seen as a gross injustice of his power, and only served to reinforce his belief that the settlers intended one day to take over both his tribe and all lands.11 Revenge was the only option left, and therefore, it was the option that was taken. The attacks began immediately. First to fall was the southwestern Plymouth settlement of Swansea, which was quickly burned and the settlers driven off. 12 Over the next months, Metacom took his war to various tribes and settlements all around New England.13 Skirmishes and battles erupted within Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut, with tribes rallying around both sides.14 More than twenty towns and settlem ents were attacked in Massachusetts alone.15 It would not be an exaggeration to say that everyone had chosen sides, both settler and Native

Article Review #2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Article Review #2 - Essay Example The writer is the author of several books on German and Soviet history during the World War II period, so he draws upon a thorough knowledge of the history of the region and period concerned but does also make use of some other valuable sources such as foreign affairs documents. In On August 22, 1939, Adolf Hitler directed his foreign minister, Joachim von Ribbentrop, to go to Moscow for a nonaggression pact with Soviet Union involving the signing of a treaty and a secret protocol for immediate effect. The German delegation conversed with Stalin and his commissar for foreign affairs at the Kremlin, and â€Å"an agreement was reached on all points†. The pact, to initially last ten years, and the secret protocol were both signed, and this occasion was celebrated as it marked a new era of German-Soviet friendship. The terms stipulated that neither country would attack the other subject to certain conditions. The secret protocol carved Europe into German and Soviet spheres of interest. Some remaining details were settled a month later along with another friendship treaty, â€Å"later supplemented by a boundary protocol†, â€Å"a confidential agreement on the exchange of populations across the borders separating the Soviet and German spheres in Ea stern Europe†, a secret protocol pertaining to non-tolerance of Polish agitation, and extensions of several economic agreements. These agreements were seen as providing â€Å"the Germans with a green light for an attack on Poland†, and whereas previous nonaggression pacts signed by the Soviets were invalidated in the case of either party attacking a third country, this was not the case in this pact. Moreover, the economic agreements were designed to maintain the German war effort through acquisition of raw materials, and enabling Germany to concentrate all its forces on the western front. It is pertinent to note that the friendship was actually â€Å"cemented with blood† given that both had attacked and divided Poland

Tuesday, July 23, 2019

Violation Early Childhood Code of Ethics Research Paper

Violation Early Childhood Code of Ethics - Research Paper Example Secondly, it also discusses some of the appropriate ways that could be taken to avoid such a violation. One of the most challenging ethical issues while dealing with children is food. Ms. Devan, an early childhood development teacher was implicated in an ethical case whereby the parents argued that she went beyond her ethical boundaries by allowing children to used food as playing tools. Precisely, Ms. Devan was using pudding as finger paint while teaching children how to paint. According to her, they preferred using edible pudding as finger paint since they discovered that the children were putting it on their mouth. Although there are ethical codes demanding that the health of the children should be given the first priority, she preferred using food pudding since it was safer than finger paint (Swim & Freeman, 2008). Although her actions were well intentioned, so many ethical questions are raised from such an action. For instance, the children developed a habit of licking the puddi ng paint directly from the table. This is certainly not hygienic. However, it is better compared to swallowing the regular finger paint that is sold commercially. The ethical case came into the limelight when one of the child’s mothers scolded her child for licking sandwich jelly that had spilled on the table at home. When she asked the child, the child affirmed that their teacher let them do it at school. Certainly, the child had learned a different thing from what was initially intended. The parent was worried that the teacher was not exercising the children code of ethics. The teacher also failed to realize that children could have learned that playing materials are good for consumption. This is certainly a violation of early childhood code of ethics, which demands that children be taught the right code of behavior especially during this important stage of cognitive development. Actually, the parent was even more worried that the teacher was wasting food while there were t housands of other children all over the world dying of hunger. Some of the ethical concerns raised from the situation demand a critical thought and consideration. Was the teacher acting safe by allowing children to play with food? Was it safe for the children after all? Did the teacher think about other lessons learned in the process? So many questions of ethical concern can be raised from this case. Undeniably, there is no clear cut difference between what should be done or what should not be done. This is even made more complicated because of the differences in ethical values between different stakeholders. Early childhood codes of ethics may not suffice enough to handle such ethically complicated issues. According to National Association for the Education of Young Children, it is necessary â€Å"To create and maintain safe and healthy settings that foster children’s social, emotional, intellectual, and physical development and that respect their dignity and their contribu tions† (2012). It is evident from the ethical principle that the teacher failed to maintain healthy settings, failed to consider the overall social development of the children’s behavior, as well as intellectual development. Needless to say, there are several measures that can be taken to avoid similar ethical violations. Firstly, the teachers need to expand their knowledge on childhood cognitive development. This would enable the teacher to make better decisions when choosing

Monday, July 22, 2019

History and Philosophy Essay Example for Free

History and Philosophy Essay The Federalist is the greatest contribution ever made on the Constitution of United States. According to Chief Justice John Marshall in the case Cohen’s v. Virginia (1821) ‘The Federalist is a complete commentary on our Constitution. ’ Since 1790 lawyers, politicians, students and even judges have all studied The Federalist to know more about the Constitutional issues. In United States the ideas of The Federalist are at the heart of the civic culture. Work on The federalist papers was started in 1787 and finished in 1788. It was written to contradict the arguments of the Anti-federalist against the ratification of the U. S Constitution in 1787. This work was originated by Alexander Hamilton who wrote 51 essays of this literature. Another author was James Madison who wrote 26 essays and the remaining were written jointly by the two and by John Jay. Overall, The Federalist comprises of 85 essays written by three authors who wanted to persuade the voters to support them in ratifying the proposed constitution of U. S. In their papers these three people outlined how this new government will operate and what type of government is best for United States. These papers were written and published under the name Publius. Although Hamilton, Madison and Jay had different and at times conflicting ideas about the government they did agree on some important points like, republicanism, federalism, separation of powers, and free government. According to them Republicanism is based on the ‘consent of the governed’ because power is divided between few people who are elected by the public to be on the top. Federalism is power divided between federal government and state government. They are two different powers at different levels and can make decisions separately and directly. â€Å"State governments can neither ignore nor contradict federal statutes that conform to the supreme law, the Constitution. This conception of federalism departed from traditional forms, known today as confederations, in which states retained full sovereignty over their internal affairs† In The Federalist Paper No. 47 Separation of Powers is mentioned as, The accumulation of all powers, legislative, executive, and judiciary, in the same hands may justly be pronounced the very definition of tyranny. Free government was another aspect which was agreed by all three authors of The Federalist. Free government is made up of the remaining three points that have been discussed above, republicanism, federalism, and separation of powers. According to the Federalist, the popular government is the free government, in which, security, property, and liberty of people are guarded by the government. This type of government is so strong that it can protect against the internal and external threats, yet it is sufficiently narrow to prevent tyranny. It can be said that free government was designed in such a manner that it could prevent against the cruelty, of the dictators, to the public. The Federalist Papers served a dual purpose. Where it outlined the requirement for a strong central government, emphasized the weakness of Articles of Confederation, and portrayed the power of the proposed Constitution, at the same time, the paper alleviated doubts about the new federal government becoming too powerful. The authors argued that that the Confederation government was too weak and the new proposed Constitution will never be too strong. The federalist had two main objectives. First, was to convince the people of New York to ratify the Constitution and the second objective was to convince the people of all 13 states to endorse the constitution. A major concern for the authors of the Federalist was federal taxation, which is obvious in their assessment of the Articles and Constitution’s justification. â€Å"At various points, they expounded on the efficacy and fairness of consumption taxes, specifically customs duties. They insisted, however, that the federal government be granted unlimited taxing powers, including the authority to assess domestic excise taxes. Debates over direct vs. indirect taxation received considerable attention, as did the constitutional requirement for tax uniformity† . Nine of the Federalist papers discuss federal taxes and federal revenue topics. Classical Influences in Federalist Papers-Madison James Madison was the fourth President of the United States and was honored with the title of ‘Father of the American Constitution. ’ Madison is the epitome of intellectual forces, which came together in American politics by the end of the eighteenth century. Bernard Bailyn has hypothesized that the classics in colonial America was ‘illustrative, not determinative of thought. ’ To defy this notion and explain Madison’s ability to perform the role of an architect of a system that successfully integrated political and philosophical views, an assessment of Madison’s life and education will be important. A complex synthesis of classical, modern, philosophical, and rational thought has been revealed by the foundation of the American Republic, as well as, the impact of classical antiquity that was considered thoughtfully. In this regard, a combined political wisdom of thousands of years of human experience was reflected by the implementation of the abovementioned complex synthesis for the formation of a system of government. Simplistic theories of interpretation have been defied by a degree of reflection and contemplation that completed that republican government, which is accounted as one of the most purposefully design by the history of mankind. In two years, after the completion of his first year’s exams, the degree was finished by the Madison in English, Greek, mathematics, and Latin. During this time, Reverend John Witherspoon considered Madison as one of his favorite students, and it was an honor as the Reverend was the president of the college. Employing a syllabus that was classical and Christian Witherspoon taught Madison moral philosophies which greatly affected him for the rest of his life. Tangible manifestation in the Federalist Papers was found by the ability of Madison regarding the classical, as well as, modern political philosophy, which was often referred as quasi-Calvinist cognizance. Wherein the plan for a fractured government was described and advocated by Madison. In addition, any individual person or entity sought precluding of usurpation of the power of governance. This theological system of belief also reveals itself in an existing political philosophy. As per the political thinking of the Calvinist, the grace of God is responsible for all the authority. In this regard, due rights are received by both authority and liberty, when the relation between the citizens and rulers is standardized unbridled authority on the part of rulers lead to despotism, autocracy, and tyranny; unbridled liberty on the part of citizens generates into license, revolution, and anarchy. License, anarchy, and revolution have been generated by the unbridled liberty on the part of the citizens. Stewards from the God are found in the rulers, as proper constitution is formed in the government according to the principles of Calvinism. For God’s sake, the highest motives are considered for the obeying of the rulers by the citizens. An example for the understanding of development of the political, classical, and philosophical amalgamation for the debates that were performed during the formation of the American Constitution was presented by a strong proponent of the classics, Calvinist, and the Scottish Enlightenment Witherspoon. The diverse approach of Witherspoon to education provides an important explanation for understanding Madison’s talent of successfully merging classical and modern political theory into a feasible plan for a secure democratic state. In other words, an extensive intellectual focus was maintained by Witherspoon, by which, discordant philosophical, as well as, theological concepts were blended into an educational program effectively and coherently. When Madison came into politics his instant tasks were clear, first he wanted to put up a proposal for a democratic republican government acceptable to the representative body at the Constitutional Convention, and second, to assure the ratification of the proposed Constitution. From an extensive view point, Madison wanted to produce a classic dissertation on the American system of government, which would enlighten future generations about democratic republicanism. Madison was able to attain both of these goals through one channel and that was The Federalist Papers. This information helps in understanding how extensive knowledge of the classics was acknowledged by Madison and the other two authors. In Federalist no. 14 Madison presents a question, which can function as a good outline of his approach concerning the issue of the significance of the classics to the American people: It has been the glory of American people, as a blind veneration for antiquity, custom, knowledge, experience’s lessons, and objections of their senses has not been suffered by them, as the opinions of former times, as well as, other nations have been paid with a decent regard by these people. The Federalist has considered this thinking approach an obvious thing, since ancients have been referenced frequently by Madison, and their strengths and weaknesses have been borne in mind. When Thomas Jefferson sent the published texts of Polybius from France, the issues of the proposed government were considered by Madison, while positive and negative examples were considered and utilized from the ancient sources by him. Therefore Madison opposes the objections of people who mention the example of Ancient Greece as a sign of un-workability of a permanent republic. He argues that Greece was a democratic system that was often confused with a republic; Madison distinguishes between the two by mentioning that a democracy requires the people to be in assembly in order to carry out the business of the state, whereas a republic requires only the assembly of legislative body to work effectively. Hence he includes both democratic and republican doctrines in his government blueprint. The importance of the classics in the American Republic origin was demonstrated by the evaluation of specific sections comprising of papers of the Federalist, and specifically, the Madison. In addition, classical antiquity’s major references were also included in these sections as mentioned before, Madison frequently opted for classical tradition method to convey his political message, yet Madison often referred to antiquity as a negative prototype for a political culture. One area in which Montesquieu’s political philosophy complements Madison’s tactic is the issue of religion. After historical bigotry of the religion was criticized, and trade was meddled with it, it was commented by him that when the established religion satisfied the state, the establishment of another religion is not allowed. In this regard, establishment of any state religion was banned by the framers of the Constitution. Few smart and wise individuals should be communicated with the important political truths for their wise implementation, which was provided by the writings of the political philosopher, as the relationship between the political community and philosophy was considered as volatile. At the same time, harmful truths were concealed from these individuals by these writings as well. This concept was well aware by the student of Montesquieu, Madison. In the result, the classical and modern political philosophy was concealed by the furthering of his project. In this sense, the role of a crucial link in the chain of thoughts of the Romans and Greeks was played by the Madison, who was served by the Montesquieu. Classics are where Madison’s popular audience was at a majority and this is one fact that he used to his benefit in writing The Federalist Papers. In addition, major references to classical antiquity were contained in six out of eighty-five of the Federalist Papers. Passing references and explicit references regarding the specific indebtedness with a clear sign were contained in the twenty-three Federalist Papers. If these facts are considered, the link between classical antiquity and the origins of the American Republic appears to ignore a serious question. Mark Diamond states that the most immediate kind of political work was the Federalist, which was a piece of campaign propaganda. In addition, a view to the permanence of its argument was also provided to thoughtful men. The widest electorate was at once addressed by it, but able and educated men were also considered, by whom, the fate of the Constitution could be determined. Short-term objective was accomplished by the Federalist, in which, public opinion had to be influence with the relation of political system of the United States. Federalist As mentioned before, the people of New York were persuaded by the publishing of the Federalist for the ratification of the Constitution. It also made an attempt to elucidate different provisions of the Constitution and to enlighten the people by giving reasons, as to why other provisions like bill of rights had been excluded. It was argued by the Publius that an exceptional opportunity of reason and choice had by the Americans for the creation of own type of government. In contrast, earlier constitutions were determined by the chance of force. Publius argued that the Constitution shaped a republican style of government which was effective and sound in nature, but yet was controlled by checks and balances Advocates of the American Constitution obtained a strategic advantage over those who opposed it by taking up the name Federalist for themselves and by identifying the adversaries Anti-Federalists. Federalists supported state rule and disagreed with a central national government. By holding the title Federalist, Hamilton and other authors got an additional advantage for their position and got around an extreme conflict over the issue of state versus national power. They emerged as advocates of states rights and this idea was clearly explained in The Federalist Papers, yet they were also evidently advocating for a strong national government. The essays were signed â€Å"Publius† after Publius Valerius who was the state builder and who rebuild the Roman republic following the removing from power Romes last king called Tarquin. Plutarch measured Publius favorably against Solon who was Greeces law giver. And at that instant a modern Publius would have helped erect the new American republic. By opting for a name like Publius, the authors of the Federalist were following a practice which was common among the eighteenth-century writers. The writers used to publish a combined work under a fictitious name instead of a byline. If Hamilton, Madison, and Jay had revealed their identity in The Federalist Papers then they would have been known as advocates of specific positions instead of being recognized by their arguments, and also this would have become a part of the argument over the Constitution. Further more; choosing secrecy was also because of the enmity between Hamilton and George Clinton the New York Governor. Interestingly Hamilton was the single New York ambassador who signed the Constitution. On the contrary, Clinton was an Anti-Federalist who was heading a state where people opposing the new Constitution were in majority. Therefore, opting for Publius was somewhat an effort to shift the discussion away from the personal bitterness between Hamilton and Clinton. As the need of unification has been signified, and the Articles of Confederation had arrears, it was explained by the Publius that a strong republican government was shaped by the Constitution, yet checks and balances controlled it. This type of government, which was strong and had checks, would maintain freedom and assets, and bring back respect for America overseas. Although an un-amended Constitution was opposed by two thirds of the nominated representatives at the New York conventions, the provision of other political writers was done by the Publius. At the same time as replying to explicit Anti-federalist arguments, The Federalist presented an integrated theory of the philosophies upon which the new Constitution was based. History, experience, and reason were the bases of this philosophical foundation, and the long existence of the republican government was verified by this foundation in relation with the examples of failed governments in the past, which were unable to survive. Countering the belief, which is often ascribed to Montesquieu, that republics could stay alive only in small areas taken by identical inhabitants, Madison in The Federalist no. 10 argued that republics could flourish best in large areas where different groups constantly competed with each other. During the constant struggles of these groups the independence of both majorities and minorities would be preserved. This republic would provide better leadership by expanding the group of qualified persons from which delegates would be selected. The Federalist no. 10 by Madison, as mentioned before, was very influential in U. S. political history and philosophy. The separation of the three branches of the federal government had to be done, as the role of a check upon the other was played by each branch in the government Although these three branches were not completely separate the practicality of each division was assured by assigning it enough power to protect itself against the actions of the other division. Furthermore, if any branch exceeded its role as defined in the Constitution then the other branches could proceed by checking on the misuse of power. Moreover, it was also stated by the Publius that freedom was protected by the new Constitution by the provision of power to the central, as well as, state governments. Specific areas of power and simultaneous powers were determined by this new federalism. It was mentioned by the Publius that a central government with restricted powers was created by the Constitution. In this regard, identification of the Congress’s, as well as, President’s powers was also done. The people and the states were left with all the remaining powers completely. If the legislative body dishonored their power and authority bestowed on them then the people could substitute them during the regular elections ensured by the Constitution. On the other hand, if the President or the judiciary breached the confidence of the people, Congress could prosecute them and if convicted Congress could remove them from their designation and from their office. The debate that was going on was based on vocabulary that is circling around the gist of the thoughts constitutive of republican dialogue. They are liberty, tyranny, virtue, corruption, representation, and even republic. It has been said before, along with rationalizations, that the new created American republic was the combined efforts of Federalists and Anti-federalists. A new political system was created not by ordains of a single lawmaker but instead was fought to bring it to life and was constructed jointly by having a powerful discussion between supporters of different political affiliations and theoretical standpoints. â€Å"The ratification debate produced an enormous outpouring of newspaper articles, pamphlets, sermons, and tracts, both for and against the new design. Of the former The Federalist is by far the most famous and certainly the most widely read in our day. The Anti-federalist case against the Constitution, by contrast, is today rarely read or even remembered. Once described (and dismissed) as mere nay-Sayers and men of little faith, the Anti-federalists are now more often regarded as the other founders. † Knowledge of this debate over the ratification of the Constitution illustrates that Publius was from time to time vanquished by its adversaries. The views supported by Publius occasionally differed from the point of view of Hamilton and Madison in the Constitutional Convention and a large portion of the Americans and the delegates did not consent with The Federalist. Nonetheless, from the beginning Americans have depended on The Federalist as being the most reliable source for understanding the objectives of the framers. The essays presented a number of arguments. The essays convincingly made the case for a strong unification of the states in Federalist number 1 to 14, highlighted the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation in Federalist number 15 to 22, argued about the benefits of a strong energetic central government in number 23 to 36, and mentioned the republican governments capability to provide political steadiness as well as freedom in numbers 35 to 51. The essays following shortly after these scrutinized the roles of the three branches of government: the legislative numbers 52 to 66, the executive numbers 67 to 77, and the judicial numbers 78 to 83 along with the question of a bill of rights in Federalist number 84. The authors of the Federalist also reasoned the benefits of federalism. Furthermore, an impact on the United States law was done by the essays, which were written on the role of the federal judiciary for a long time now. Federalist essay number 78 consists of a vital defense of the belief of the judicial review that is the power which permits the U. S. Supreme Court to eliminate laws passed by Congress. In Federalist number 80 it is argued by Hamilton that it is important to establish system of federal courts, which are separate from state courts. The theories of the European philosophers of the Enlightenment have built the political philosophy of the Federalist. In addition, the Articles of Confederation, as well as, their experience by the United States, and historical examples have also been included. The treatise not only presented historical arguments and philosophical theories about the human nature and government, but also presented strong analysis of the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation. The general aim of the paper was to persuade the people that an energetic and strong centralized government would be more caring towards their freedom and independence. The philosophers’ thoughts were consideration of natural rights, and illustrated the kind of government best capable of protecting the rights of the people. They recognized that a person’s inclination towards self-protection, freedom, and selfishness would primarily come into conflict with the opposing needs of other people. Therefore, these philosophers maintained that the best type of government is one which balances the selfish needs of the human beings with the need of self-protection. The speculative thought that too much liberty can be terrible for an organized society was confirmed by the U. S government during the years of the Articles of Confederation. A shoddy amalgamation of independent states, as well as, the national government was provided by the articles. A specific legislative body was considered for the positioning of the articles. Affairs relating to the mutual defense were discussed and decided by the bestowed powers on this legislative body, which has been referred as the Congress. The creation of a strong central government has been fearfully taken like the Great Britain, a significant power with the state governments has been placed by the delegates, and national government has been restricted with the powers greatly. Lack of power for the enforcement of law, funds collection, trade regulation, and uniform judgment’s provision has been responsible for the hampering of the Congress. What is more, many intuitive leaders identified that the self-centeredness of the states would ultimately break the union and they also recognized that the Articles of Confederation presented no legal means to stop this collapse. States had clashes with each other over land, commerce regulations, and imposts against nearby states. States set up relations with foreign nations and declined to send tax money to Congress. The Virginia legislature called a delegate for the production of uniformity in trade, as well as, in the commerce. The meeting was meant for the discussion of uniform trade regulations with the interested delegates from the different states. In spite of the small presence of states at the Annapolis Convention, the meeting motivated states to hold another meeting for the explicit reason of modifying the Articles of Confederation. Sufficient power was not within a weak central government for the provision of security and protection of the civil liberties of individuals, as assumed by the delegates with the help of guidance from the Article of Confederation experience. Therefore, the delegates decided to entirely abolish the old system. The convention presented a new plan of government at the end of the summer of 1787, which was titled the U. S. Constitution. A strong central government was requested by this manuscript, in which all the other state governments will depend on this authoritative body and laws will be enforced, judged, and legislated by the bestowed powers to this body. The document was highly praised by the Federalists for the creation of energy in a centralized body. However, it was feared by the Anti-federalists that their rights and liberties would be infringed by the new plan. Strong and rational justifications were provided for each choice of the Constitution Convention by the Federalist papers. Citizens were also persuaded by the papers that greater protection could be provided by the government for the people, if the hands of people will be placed with less power. Although the concern about ratification of the U. S. Constitution in the New York state by Alexander Hamilton was originated with the document, ratification of the Constitution and its related essays were supported by the arguments of leaders in many states. Since the role of delegates to the Constitutional Convention was played by both Hamilton and Madison, the name Publius was used for all the published essays. As a large part for the constructing of document was done by the arguments, criticism as a subjective by these arguments was felt by them. Even after nine out of thirteen state approvals were received by the Constitution, two of the most powerful states, the New York and Virginia continued their struggle for the ratification. Technically, ratification of New York or Virginia did not have any effect on the Constitution. However the writing down the federalist essays was not a futile assignment, even though the Constitution turned out to be successful without New Yorks support. While an effort was made by them for the persuasion of the American audience, an opportunity was received by them for being associated with the first federal republic. A distinctive political philosophy was conveyed successfully by the Publius. Practice was possible, and philosophical theories and historical examples instituted this philosophy. Moist importantly, the experience during the accomplishment of the balance between order and freedom was the bases of this philosophy. â€Å"The Federalist Papers reflect the end of an era in America, a chapter that began with the Mayflower Compact of 1620 and the various covenants, declarations, and state constitutions that followed, and culminated in the Declaration of Independence and Constitution. During that period of more than a century and a half, American political thought was formulated and tried, and arguments were rehearsed and refined in press, pulpit, and legislative chamber, often to express opposition to the British crown, but also to give an expanding country a workable government. It was against such a background that The Federalist Papers emerged, combining the traits Robert A. Ferguson ascribes to the Constitution: generic strength, manipulative brilliance, cunning restraint, and practical eloquence. † The essays presented in The Federalists are fundamental and ground-breaking statements of sound rational political thought, which carefully progress ahead the essential thoughts mentioned by theorists Hume, Locke, and Montesquieu. Rather than radically deposing off the old theory and practice, the authors of the Constitution cautiously studied it and took its finest aspects and gave them a new meaning altogether. The essays of the Federalists had more life and were more strongly remembered than material written by Marx, Lenin, Mao, Castro, or Metternich. If there would have been no credible arguments against the proposed constitution then there would have been no need for the intense material of The Federalist. And, if there would have been no Federalist then understanding the Constitution would have been significantly reduced. The Constitution is a concise manuscript which is not suitable for an argument or for an explanation. The Federalist makes us understand the minds of the creators. Madison commented that The Federalist offers â€Å"the most authentic exposition of the text of the Federal Constitution, as understood by the Body which prepared and the authority which accepted it. † The Federalist justifies why the authors found the Articles of Confederation unacceptable; why they wanted to separate the powers of the government’s branches; why they split the national legislature into two different houses; why they thought that a federal court for the final appeal was desirable and necessary; why they banned titles of nobility; why they said that a bill of rights was a needless addition, and why a lot of other permissions and prohibitions were written into the Constitution or excludes completely. â€Å"As a contribution to the ratification debate, The Federalist is an extended exercise in exposition, explanation, and persuasion. As a work of political theory, then, The Federalist flies fairly close to the ground, rarely soaring into the stratosphere of philosophical abstraction. † Articles of Confederation If the Articles of Confederation would not have failed then there would have been no Constitution and surely no Federalist Papers. After two centuries it is not easy to picture the hectic state of America in the post revolutionary era. There was so much going on. America won a war but still the eastern seaboard was susceptible to attackers. Then the economy was weighed down by numerous currencies and tariffs, the state governments were bankrupt, and the central government was only central in name. Everything was hap hazard and nothing was going right. Since 1776 till 1787 America was an uncontrolled union of states which were ruled by the Articles of Confederation, which had a serious defect and that was the individual states had power and that power remained with them. The central government was just there to be called central. It could do nothing. It could neither increase revenues nor pass and ratify legislation necessary for independent states. To pass laws, nine votes out of thirteen states were necessary and an undisputed and agreed by all votes was essential to effect any basic change in the Articles. Making a central government with such weakness was deliberate because the American colonists had angrily rejected the British crowns authority to control trade and collect taxes. The governmental body created under the Articles of Confederation was basically immobilized, and there was no executive or judicial branch as well. What is more, the thirteen states had distinct political and commercial concerns and therefore a brief duration of artificial harmony among these states proved to be unsuccessful in producing a nationalized identity. What is surprising is that nine states had navies; seven printed their own currency, and the majority had tariff and customs laws. Also, New York was charging duties on ships transporting firewood or farm produce to and from neighboring states such as, New Jersey and Connecticut. When the soldiers mentioned that â€Å"New Jersey is our country, they were endorsing the prevailing emotions of other states. The insolvent state governments also contributed largely to the political turmoil of the 1780s. Hamilton harshly attacked the Articles of Confederation when he stated in Federalist No. 9 that the states promoted little, jealous, clashing, tumultuous commonwealths, the wretched nurseries of unceasing discord. Madison when writing Federalist No. 10 had the insolvent states in mind as well because he portrays the requirement to secure the national

Sunday, July 21, 2019

Environmental Changes and Economic Growth Relationship

Environmental Changes and Economic Growth Relationship CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION 1.0 Background of the Study Over the past two decades, the issue of climate change due to increased global warming has been a major environmental challenge. Rising levels of carbon dioxide emissions is considered one of the principal causes of global warming and climatic instability. In order to investigate the climate change concern, this research examines the cointegration and causal relationship between economic growths and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in selected five Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries for the period 1980 to 2010 namely Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand. The research focus on the relationship of these two variables, from the increasing effects of energy on economic development. This research aims to discover the linkage of these two variables as emissions and economic growth are related in contributing the global warming or climate change. This issues has been discussed frequently and become a bigger concern globally. The Research specifically focus on ASEAN five, and not to all ASEAN countries as these five countries sharing the similarity in the level of economics development since 1980 that coincided with significant increase in fossil fuel usage. The pressure exists for ASEAN five to achieve a balanced level of energy that control the CO2 emissions to the environment but at the same time ensuring the country’s sustainable economic growth. Thus, the issue regarding how increased fossil fuel consumption and economic growth influence carbon dioxide emissions is currently one of the most interesting topic. Over the past two decades, the menace of climate change due to increased global warming has been a major environmental challenge. Rising levels of carbon dioxide emissions is considered one of the principal causes of global warming and climatic instability Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) includes almost all of the Southeast Asian countries. Its key position in the Asian Pacific proclaims dedication toward peace and stability in the region, these Region contributed a significant economic input through integrated energy management. ASEAN was first officially established in 1967 in Bangkok, Thailand, with the signing of the Bangkok Declaration by the five original member nations: Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand. Further on Brunei Darussalam, Vietnam, Lao People’s Republic, Burma/Myanmar, and Cambodia joined, making the ASEAN a group of 10. ASEAN region lies within the waters of the Pacific Ocean, Indian Ocean, Andaman Sea and South China Sea, and stretches more than 3,300 kilometres from north to south (latitudes 30 ° North to 11 ° South) and 5,600 kilometres from west to east (longitudes 92 ° West to 142 ° East). ASEAN borders from China to the north, India and Bangladesh to the northwest, and East Timor and Papua New Guinea to the southeast. ASEAN also has a long coastline, measuring about 173,000 kilometres in total, and is surrounded by major seas and gulfs such as the South China Sea, the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. In view of its proximity to the equator, the region enjoys a warm and humid climate throughout the year according to Letchumanan (2008). In ASEAN from the period from 1980 to 1999, its economy grew by nearly 5 percent a year and energy consumption by 7.5 percent. The economy is expected to continue to grow at this rate over the period from 2000 to 2020, and it is estimated that annual energy supply must increase by 4.2 percent a year to sustain this growth, Balce et al. (2001). As Karki, Mann, Salehfar (2005) the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is one of the most dynamic economic regions of the world. The economy in ASEAN is linked with its diverse energy resources, high-level urbanization, and rapid industrialization. ASEAN’s growing economy in the last two decades has increased the concern of sustainable development in the face of deteriorating energy security, environmental pollution, and economic hardship in energy investment. In the last two decades ASEAN’s faces a growing economy and it has increased the concern of sustainable development in the issues of deteriorating energy security, environmental pollution, and economic hardship in energy investment Karki et al. (2005). ASEAN-5, namely Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Philippines and Thailand have progressed economically well compared to other members of ASEAN. Among the ASEAN countries (excluding Brunei), in terms of per capita income in 2008, Singapore (USD 39,991) ranked the highest followed by Malaysia (USD 8032), Thailand (USD 4103), Indonesia (USD 2245) and the Philippines (USD 1840). The average GDP growth of ASEAN-5 between 2004 and 2009 was 5.9% with Singapore and Indonesia recording over 5% growth rates. The rapid growth of the ASEAN-5, specifically for Singapore and Malaysia compared to the rest, poses an interesting question among policymakers. Thus, it is essential to investigate the long-run and short–run relationship and causality issues between the variables for these countries. Furthermore, according to ACE (2002) The ASEAN makes up one of the largest regional markets in the world, and contributing a combined gross domestic product (GDP) of US$578 billion in 2000.The region hosts approximately US$53 billion in direct US investment, and it is the third largest overseas market for US exports with two-way ASEAN–US trade totalling US$120 billion in 2001.The rapid economic growth for ASEAN can be seen since Hence, the environmental, social, and economic issues in the region are very significant and widespread for the rest of the world. 1.1 History of C02 Emissions in ASEAN ASEAN comprises of ten countries. These countries have contrasting energy demand profiles, levels of access to modern energy services, and energy resource endowments. The demand for energy in the region has continuously increased over the past four decades, driven essentially by high economic growth, underpinned by increased urbanisation and industrialisation. The development has resulted in increased greenhouse-gas emissions. A large proportion (approximately 60%) of these emissions have come from fossil-fuel combustion taken from WRI (2011). According to Sandu, Sharma, Vaiyavuth (2009) the historical development in CO2 emissions for the ASEAN countries over the period 1971 to 2009, show that: (1) population growth and increased levels of affluence are the largest contributors to emissions growth in most countries; (2) fossil fuels have increasingly become the major fuel source in the region despite recent global environmental pressures – reversing this trend will be a challenging task; (3) production structures for most countries have increasingly become concentrated towards energy-intensive industrial sector; (4) the region has achieved energy efficiency gains at both end-use and conversion levels – in fact this is the only factor that led to reduced emissions; and (5) the effect of changes in carbon intensity of primary energy was only negligible and no meaningful trend can be observed. As fossil fuel as a major CO2 contribution in the air, it is relevant to reinvestigate whether the CO2 emission have a causality effect to GDP and how these two variable react .My research will answer the direction interplay between CO2 and GDP. Notwithstanding the large growth in energy consumption, energy consumption per capita in the region (0.9 tonnes of oil equivalent), however it still considerably lower than the developed world average. Moreover, almost 30% of the population in the region still do not have access to electricity IEA (2009). With expected increases in population (by 30% by 2050; UN 2011), coupled with ever increasing urbanisation and industrialisation, energy demand is expected to increase substantially. Unless there are fundamental changes in the patterns of economic production and fuel-mix, the greenhouse-gas emissions are expected to became higher and grow significantly in the years to come. For example, according to IEA (2009), the region’s share of global emissions could reach 5% in 2030. Currently this share is around 3%. The implication of CO2 emissions comes in positive and negative manners respectively. One important detail to be considered is that the effect of this occurrence varies from one country to another depending on the level of social, economic as well as political developments. As such, it is important to analyse the history of CO2 emissions, according to specific country rather than assuming the impact as an overall. This section will discuss further the history of CO2 through the perspective of ASEAN countries. This current research focus on CO2 emission only because this emission is the most listed in the IPCC (revised in 1996) and most effect to climate changes according to world-nuclear (2014).Latest updates are 72% of the totally emitted greenhouse gases is carbon dioxide (CO2), 18% Methane and 9% Nitrous oxide (NOx). CO2 is inevitably created by burning fuels like e.g. oil, natural gas, diesel, organic-diesel, petrol, organic-petrol, ethanol. The emissions of CO2 have been gradual ly increased within the last 50 years and are still increasing by almost 3% each year. According to Luukkanen Kaivo-oja (2002) the general observation on the basis of decomposition analyses provided that development of energy sectors in ASEAN countries is to an increasing extent based on fossil energy use. Decomposition analyses is quantifying the contribution of each group of energy use to the aggregate index.This type of development is mainly due to the fact that the ASEAN countries are industrializing economies and are following the Western pattern of development. This summarize that each countries responsibilities and participate of the developing countries in emission reductions is central and for ASEAN countries economic constraints can deplete the environmental concerns. 1.1.1 History of CO2 in Malaysia Malaysia experienced a rapid economic growth from the past four decades. From the year of 1961 to 1997 (before financial crisis) Malaysia economic growth increased by an annual average growth rate of 7.26%.and from the year of 1999 to 2008 (before Asian financial crisis), Malaysia experienced 5.55% increase in its annual average growth rate. Malaysia are categorise as a high income developing country in South East Asia. From the statistics energy consumption in Malaysia increased by average annual growth rate of 6.76% in 2010 to settle at 72646 kilo tone of oil equivalent (ktoe) from 6093 ktoe in 1971 (World Bank, World Development Indicator). Chik, Rahim, Studies (2012) conclude that CO2 emission intensity in the energy sector, Electricity has contributed the highest CO2 emission, while in non-energy sector; Transportation has contributed the highest CO2 emission in 2005. Malaysia’s initiative to combat the environmental issue based on energy use is by limiting and minimize the new energy intensive sector but will promote the energy efficiency and high production industries. According to Saboori, Sulaiman, Mohd (2012) Malaysia has experienced rapid transformation from an agriculture based economy to industrialization, and a significant rise in pollutant emissions, specifically CO2 emissions. In 2007 CO2 emissions in Malaysia were at 7.32 metric tons per capita while the world average was only 4.63 tons. It is proven that real GDP per capita and per capita CO2 emissions move closely together over time, implying a long-run or cointegrating relationship between them, as such econometric testing has been applied in my research to evidence the existence of the relationship. Thus it is justifiable to investigate the cointegration and causality issues between these two variables. 1.1.2 History of CO2 emissions in the Philippines CO2 emissions started in Philippines is a archipelago located in Southeast Asia and as a country that is full of islands and a sensitive ecosystem, Philippines also no stranger to the effects of global warming. Slightly changes in the environment can give big environmental disasters in Philippines. In 1994, 10,603 ktons of CO2 were released Industry sector. A major fraction (86%) of the industrial CO2 emissions comes from the cement and metal industries .Those emissions comes directly from industrial processed associated with manufacturing cement and metals, and excluded the power generation activities of these industries which are already accounted for in the Energy sector. This is related to the combined effect of GHG emissions came from the four sectors of Energy, Industry, Agriculture, and Wastes, and the net uptake (sink) of from the greenhouse gas emissions. Globally, this national amount is still minimal relative to the CO2 emissions from other developed countries parties to the UNFCCC. The greenhouse gas emissions in the energy sector which is largely from CO2 come mainly from fuel combustion. From this sector alone emitted 50,038 kt tons of equivalent CO2 in 1994 by Bureau Resources (2004). Fabian (2009) reported that local air pollution problems and the impacts of climate change as well will continue to plague the Philippines unless a new program for land-use and transportation planning is implemented. In Philippines transportation sector plays a main role in economic development and cities are often cited as the â€Å"engines† of growth of a country. Recent estimates of CO2 and particulate (PM) emissions in the Philippines show that in 2008, emissions of CO2 totalled 30 million tons and 56 thousand tons of particulate matter. CO2emissions from the transport sector accounted for 38 per cent of the total from fuel combustion in 2000. If the business-as-usual scenario prevails, the number of motorized vehicles will become double before the year 2020. Indoor air pollution in ASEAN member countries caused by incomplete burning of biomass and coal while the people cook in traditional cook stoves. As much as 90% of the biomass is consumed in the household sector in Philippines as Bhattacharya, (2000). A study done by Bhattacharya (2000) shows that 29.1Mt of CO2 was emitted from biomass combustion, whereas 50.2Mt was emitted from fossil fuel combustion in the Philippines in 1995. The increasing high emissions from the cook stoves are due to low efficiency and high emission factors. The average efficiency of the most widely available cook stoves is about 16 percent, using charcoal as fuel. A typical cook stove used in Thailand has an efficiency around 14 percent and emission factors (g/kg of fuel used) of 26.4 CO, 1596 CO2, 10CH4, and 0.120 Nox Bhattacharya et al. (2002). The emissions are not only is the heat from the burning wasted, but because of poorly designed chimneys, the indoor air pollution is more severe 1.1.3 History of CO2 emissions in Singapor Kluver and Weber (2003) stated that Singapore, is an island country has existed since 1965, when it was separated from the newly formed Republic of Malaysia, as a result of a fear by Malays of Singapore’s dominant Chinese ethnic group as well as a strategy in order to keep communism at arm’s length. Singapore done very well in the past decades of the twentieth century to rise from an enter port centre to be a global city and finally become a developed nation country. It had resolved most of the issues relating to underdevelopment and had developed the needed institutions to prepare its survival in the twenty-first century. Tan, Lean, Khan (2014) indicate a significant rise in CO2 emissions as GDP rose. Another study on a possible turning point shows that continuous growth will be necessary for a long time before we experience any trickle-down effects on environmental pollution. The results of causality analysis conclude that CO2 emissions indeed have caused decline in Singapore’s growth. It is therefore argued that strict regulatory regimes on environmental protection in the city–state must remain in force. Tan, Lean, Khan (2014) indicate a significant rise in CO2 emissions as GDP rose over the years confirming a short-run trade-off between environment and growth. Furthermore according to Sam (2010) with the absence of any significant agricultural land or landfill sites, Singapore has no problems with methane gases. CO2 is the primary greenhouse gas emitted in the city state is produced by the use of fossil fuels in power generation. Singapore’s CO2 is produced by industry (54%), transportation (19%), buildings (16%) and consumer households (9%).CO2 emissions in Singapore rose from an average 5.26 million tonnes per capita between 1970s to 1980s to 10.29 million tonnes per capita in the mid-1990s, and stabilizing at an average of 10.19 million tonnes per capita for the period of 1995 to 2008. Comparing with total global emissions, CO2 emissions in Singapore accounted for less than 0.2% although Singapores contribution has increased from an average of 0.07% in the 1970s and 1980s to 0.17% in 1991 to 2008. For instance Singapore has been considered a high emitter of greenhouse gases. The Energy Information Administration (EIA), which provides energy statistics to the United States government, indicated in its 2006 data that Singapore emitted 141 million tonnes of CO2. The EIA ranked Singapore as the 33rd highest emitter of greenhouse gases among 215 countries. Bradshaw, Giam (2010) indicate that from the recent study ranks Singapore as the worst environmental offender among 179 countries in terms of proportional environmental impact. Singapores poor ranking is attributed to its drive for economic development and urbanization that has led to high proportional natural forest loss and greater release of CO2.