Friday, July 26, 2019
The self-esteem movement has caused young people to overvalue their Essay
The self-esteem movement has caused young people to overvalue their actual skills and has set many of them up for disappointmen - Essay Example 1). In considering this argument, it is important to note that studies have revealed that only about 12% of fourth graders are reading at grade level; and telling young learners that they are beautiful and gifted has not necessarily translated to higher test scores or better spelling skills (Colvin, p. 1). For which reason, various scholars have emphasized that the self-esteem movement has not achieved ideal goals for the students and for the educational system in general. It has instead gone too far in crediting children and other young people with skills which would not get them through the harsh realities of life. The self-esteem movement has also created an illusion for many young learners. It has overblown their self-concept and has seemingly given them more than a healthy dose of self-esteem. In other words, the movement has given them a bloated self-concept which seems to skate closely towards egotism and self-centeredness. This may be apparent in the case of bullies who have been ââ¬Å"discovered to highly rate themselves in their academic performance and interpersonal relationships, and typically hold unrealistically positive self-esteemâ⬠(Tseng, p. 24). College professors also note that while citing spelling and grammatical errors, their students often claim that it is just the professorââ¬â¢s opinion. And these professors emphasize that wrong grammar and wrong spelling is not merely an opinion ââ¬â it is just really bad writing (Jayson). Moreover, in assessing the different interests and values of teenagers and young learners, a survey was able to establish that when teenagers were asked about their biggest issues to date, one of their main issues is on "whether or not to have sex" and another concern is on their "popularity" (Psychauthors, p. 4). They expressed little concern for other issues like global warming, war, or politics. As compared to their parents' generations, these teens appear to display more self-confidence and self-est eem; but these qualities have not translated to happier and healthier teens. In fact, depression among teens seems to register at higher rates now than in the 1960s or 1970s; and not to mention, the number of teens suffering from eating disorders, anorexia and bulimia, have risen to alarming rates over the years (Psychauthors, p. 4). These numbers hardly express major gains in instilling improved self-concepts for young people; and if their academic gains were to be assessed, these show hardly any improvement at all. The self-esteem movement was conceptualized in order to give young learners the psychological tools to ward off bullies and other people who may underestimate their capabilities. These goals are to be admired; however, the overall impact that the movement has had on young people cannot be considered as major gains which can be used in the outside world. In the classroom, the movement emphasized that even if children made multiple grammatical and spelling mistakes in the ir schoolwork, these should be overlooked because it might damage their self-esteem (Jayson). However, as many of these young learners enter college where the merit system is based on strict and realistic standards, they often break at the slightest
Thursday, July 25, 2019
Rise and Fall of the Hyksos in the Egyptian Civilization Research Paper
Rise and Fall of the Hyksos in the Egyptian Civilization - Research Paper Example Their power was enhanced every time any Asian force entered Egypt, whom they greeted as allies . Hyksos were declared to be a large force, and managed to invade Egypt without much resistance. They were able to accomplish this because they took advantage of a time when the dynasty of Pharaohs was nearing its end, and the Pharaoh had no son to succeed him. They crushed the ruling regime, and burnt the cities and temples to the ground. The natives were treated brutally, and some were even made slaves. Finally, they appointed a member of their army, Salitis, as king and established a new city called Ausaris . The Hyksos ruled in a period which is commonly known as the Second Intermediate Period, in which the Asians were known as ââ¬ËAamuââ¬â¢ by the locals. The Fifteenth Dynasty (1663-1570 BC) is usually assigned to these Hyksos kings. The Hyksos, started by ruling the eastern Delta, and later they spread their power to the middle and southern parts of Egypt. During the Second Inte rmediate Period, Egypt was in a state of turmoil, as opposing groups were rising from different areas. Among these emerged two strong leaders, the Hyksos kings, ruling from their capital Avaris, and the Theban Dynasty. During their rule, the Hyksos kings continued to attack the southern region, in order to gain control over the Theban Kingdom, which they eventually managed to do but for a short time period. The ethnic origins of the Hyksos have always been a controversial topic. There is plenty of evidence to support that they were from Palestine, as their culture was very similar to that of the last stage of Middle Bronze Age II from the Syro-Palestinian region. But there are also indications of Mesopotamian culture in the Hyksos kingdom. Objects such as composite bows and chariots used by the Hyksos, were part of the Mesopotamian civilization. But it was odd that these objects were of the old design when used by the Hyksos, as compared to the new ones which were being used in Meso potamia at the time. Thus, it can be concluded that the Hyksos were not directly influenced by the Mesopotamians3. The Hyksos were grand builders and craftsmen, and their method of governance was almost similar to that of the Egyptians. Although the Hyksos brought a few of their gods when they invaded Egypt, they also displayed respect to the idols of the Egyptian natives, some of which also became a part of their own religion. Egypt already had various interactions with the forces from Asia. These included several wars and trade to a certain extent; therefore it would not be startling to notice that mix cultures did exist in different areas in Egypt at that time. The Hyksos belonged to the Semitic tribe who gained control of Egypt from the leaders of the Second Intermediate Period, which took place after the 13th Dynasty. Their names largely come from the West Semitic languages and there also have been hints that these people were Hurrian. It is difficult to verify the origins of t hese people in Asia, and at Tell el-Dab'a, as their culture was not steady, but kept on changing. According to one theory, the local Egyptians allowed, settlers from the region of Lebanon and Palestine to settle down on their lands. The leaders of these settlers gradually established matrimonial relations with the local Egyptians. This is supported by the fact that foreign features of the Hyksos at Tell el-Dab'a have been excavated at sites to the south of Palestine such as Tell el-Ajjul, at the Syrian site of Ebla and at Byblos in modern Lebanon. Hence, the Hyksos ended up ruling Egypt mainly because of the the huge number of Asians who travelled to
Wednesday, July 24, 2019
To compare and contrast representation of class in two media texts Essay
To compare and contrast representation of class in two media texts - Essay Example Set in a post-industrial society era (early 1900's), Titanic depicts the wide gulf that existed between the bourgeoisie (the first major industrialists of our age, e.g. among the main characters in the First class berth, it included a "Pittsburgh Steel tycoon, the owner of the fleet that commissioned Titanic and the nouveau riche e.g. a character called Molly Brown) and the proletariat who sell their labour power (the stokers in the boiler room, menservants and most steerage passengers depicted as people who harbour dreams of emigrating to the USA to better their lives). The differences lie everywhere, from the treatment meted out to passengers based on their class, from the snobbish upper-class attitudes and stereotypes about steerage passengers, to the final sinking of the ship where upper class passengers invariably, enjoy first privilege in rescue efforts. Where it concerns applying class theories, there's hardly a more monumental movie ever built than Titanic. Notting Hill in comparison, is a humble and subtle portrayal of the same class sensibilities with a modern, urban twist. It's about similar attitudes in question here, only the message is more indirect and attributive. Both movies are immensely popular in their own right, and hold a special place in the genre of Romance cinema. So inevitably, in this paper, we shall explore class depiction in media through the perspective of the universal theme called "Love", of opposites attracting, poor guy meets rich girl, and how class differences come in the way of their strong craving for each other. The most significant work on class studies was performed by Karl Marx, a famous German philosopher, along with Engels. It is important to know that Marxist class theories drew heavily on the political science beliefs of Adam Smith, the father of capitalism, the only difference being in the perspective of opinion. Whereas Smith justified his theories on "wealth creation" as a cause for the common good, Marx looked down upon it as the root cause of all evil. Seen from this end, we can apply class theories of Marx to connect audience sensitivity with the poor male protagonists in both movies, as must have been aimed by the moviemakers. The fundamental tenet of Marx class theory is that any class identity is forged in relation to means of production, of wealth (Wikipedia). That because of wealth creation, there exist two distinct classes, the bourgeoisie (those who control means of production), and the proletariat who must labour in order to survive. This, Marx argues is the fundamental reason for all class differences to originate. Since the proletariat
MKT Assignment 01 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words
MKT Assignment 01 - Essay Example Bob Iger has set an example of excellent leadership along with Steve Jobs and Hervey Weinstein. These diversifications involved purchasing Pixar, Miramax and now recently Marvel. What makes this deal a major eye-opener is the change in Disney's outlook as an entertainment studio for young children. Where, acquisition of Marvel introduces Disney to a more mature market which involves teenagers and adults as well. Analysts see the deal in a very positive light as both companies have very popular brands and are equally established. It also brings much curiosity how Disney plans to bring Marvel characters and mix with Disney characters, or make their presence in Disney theme parks and movies. This article explains an excellent example of a tactic in in global market entry strategies which is mergers and acquisitions. Although Marvel and Disney belong to similar national boundaries, their global reach makes them indifferent to culture differences and national boundaries. The article first highlights previous marketing ventures such as acquiring Pixar animated studios, which brought out a more flourishing output for market of younger children such as, Toy Story and Finding Nemo. Bob Iger then took a major step of acquiring Marvel Entertainment which is also an indirect competitor of Disney. There were two things that motivate Bob Iger to make a more risky decision. Firstly, Pixar made four releases since acquisition from Disney that grossed $ 2 billion in worldwide ticket sales. Secondly, Marvel made a major success from the movie Iron Man, increasing their market value through popularity. This popularity allowed marvel to sell off at a significant premium market price, a benefit which would not have come without major successes such as Iron Man and X-Men. The article highlights a major example as to how companies assess valuation before striking a major business deal. One of the possible challenges in international marketing of Disney comes from their target market. The attributes of Disney's market is young and below or early teenage compared to Marvel and this may clash with Disney's existing brand image as an entertainment production only for children. Disney may choose to take both companies separately, showing no sign of any link between brands of either company, but the acquisition brings immense opportunities. Acquisition of Marvel will allow Disney to reach out to a larger market under their domain without affecting its own brand image. Speculations claim that Disney may also take the opportunity of taking characters from both the companies and bring out more creative combinations in their coming movies, which projects enormous profits with as much risk. The article concludes however, this is a win-win approach for both the co mpanies as it not only broadens their opportunities for future movies but the benefit of sharing resources for future productions. Global market entry strategies also aid in competing with rival companies, such as in this case, Time Warner. Time Warner however made a major merger with AOL which now makes them the world's largest media and entertainment conglomerate, owing to its large number of subsidiaries. Two of many AOL Time Warner subsidiaries are Warner Bros. Entertainment and DC comics which are direct competitors of Disney Entertainment and
Tuesday, July 23, 2019
Secularism in British Society Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words
Secularism in British Society - Essay Example For centuries in Britain, monarchs ruled by Crown and Church. There is also the belief that the pope is the god on earth and must have supreme authority over the state. The pope has the right to depose the king throughout the ages. Around the year 1900, English people believed in social progress. "Public drunkenness became rare and alcoholism ceased to be an accepted fact of private life. Literacy became nearly universal, sanitation and diet improved at every level of society. People put great effort into staying clean, and governments built infrastructure that enormously increased the availability of water to common people. Wages nearly doubled in a generation"(Himmelfarb and Knopf 1995). Britain was so powerful empire with colonies. She was rich commercially as well as in military. It was the era of rapid industrialization and urbanization. On the second half of 19th century, Britain was on the verge of "moral and social collapse". The country was in chaotic condition. Himmelfarb and Knopf noted that "society was riddled with class and racial prejudices that most people today would find gruesome." There was economic crisis, poverty, ignorance and diseases. Crime was so common that they even have to transport criminals to other state such as Australia. Furthermore, "cities were growing in an almost unregulated fashion as the impoverished peasantries were driven off the land." The government was so corrupt even making the parliament as the tool of aristocratic factions. There was a sense of moral degradation in the state. Many professed to be Christians yet denying its true essence. Poor workers were asked to work for long hours at low wages. The society was separated from the religious world and religion becomes a personal matter. The idea of the sacred that was long a tradition was lost. People were increasingly concerned on achieving worldly things for personal gains. Secularization has progressively pervaded Britain. Theocracy ceased to have influence or authority on the Englishmen's social and political life. Religion lost its role in shaping political and social policies. It has become even irrelevant to the lives of ordinary people. Levels of Christian observance are even becoming lower than they used to be. The good "Victorian values" people used to follow were viewed as despotic and hypocritical, and gathered too much intellectual reaction. This cultural change could be traced back to the age of enlightenment. It was the era of philosophy and intellect as well as scientific and cultural development that promoted reason as the prime source and rightful for authority. It gradually created a crisis of faith in Britain. Some of these newly-bred philanthropists were non-believers. Some liberal churches rejected some traditionally known doctrine such as the doctrine of Hell. There was widespread absence at churches, which they normally do every Sunday.
Monday, July 22, 2019
ASQ Agile v Waterfall Essay Example for Free
ASQ Agile v Waterfall Essay Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management Lisa Sieverts, PMP, PMI-ACP Phil Ailes, PMI-ACP Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management Agenda â⬠¢ â⬠¢ â⬠¢ â⬠¢ What is a Project Overview ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Traditional Project Management ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Agile Project Management The Differences ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Product Life Cycle ââ¬ââ⬠¯ The Teams ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Requirements ââ¬ââ⬠¯ WBS/Product Backlog ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Schedule ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Risk ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Quality QA 2 à ©Lisa Sieverts Phil Ailes 1 Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management What is a Project? â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Temporary â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Goal â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Constrained 3 à ©Lisa Sieverts Phil Ailes Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management What makes projects special? â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Projects are characterized by uncertainty 4 à ©Lisa Sieverts Phil Ailes 2 Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management Traditional Waterfall Projects â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Traditional Waterfall Projects ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Dates from the end of WWII ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Grew out of Defense industry ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Based on Deming Cycle of Plan-Do-Check-Act ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Emphasizes heavy up-front analysis ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Lots of documentation ââ¬ââ⬠¯ PMBOK versions 1-4 à ©Lisa Sieverts Phil Ailes Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management Traditional Waterfall Project High Medium Requirements Low Optional High Design Medium Low Optional High Development Medium Low Optional High Testing Medium Low Optional High Deploy Medium Low Optional 6 à ©Lisa Sieverts Phil Ailes 3 Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management Waterfall Advantages 7 à ©Lisa Sieverts Phil Ailes Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management Waterfall Advantages â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Established Processes- Project Management Body of Knowledge â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Management Controls â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ (Apparent) Predictability â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Great for low uncertainty/high dependency projects ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Construction ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Update of established product ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Maintenance projects 8 à ©Lisa Sieverts Phil Ailes 4 Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management Waterfall Disadvantages 9 à ©Lisa Sieverts Phil Ailes Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management Waterfall Disadvantages â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Sometimes is more about the Process than the Product â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Keeps the customer at bay ââ¬â by the time they see the end results it may be too late â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Project teams often become rigid and resistant to change: ââ¬Å"Those darn users keep changing their minds.â⬠â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Long product development time 10 à ©Lisa Sieverts Phil Ailes 5 Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management Agile Project Management â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ The Agile Way ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Experiments in the 1990s ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Values self-organizing teams ââ¬ââ⬠¯ No formal ââ¬Å"project managementâ⬠ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Iterative approach ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Flexible à ©Lisa Sieverts Phil Ailes Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management Manifesto â⬠¢ The Agile Manifesto for Software Development ââ¬ââ⬠¯ ââ¬Å"We are uncovering better ways of developing software by doing it and helping others do it. Through this work we have come to value: â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Individuals and interactions over processes and tools â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Working software over comprehensive documentation â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Customer collaboration over contract negotiation â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Responding to change over following a plan ââ¬ââ⬠¯ That is, while there is value in the items on the right, we value the items on the left more.â⬠12 à ©Lisa Sieverts Phil Ailes 6 Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management The Agile Way Sprints ââ¬â High Priority Features Integrate Test Sprints ââ¬â Low Priority Features Integrate Test Integrate Test Design Test Test Develop Integrate Test Demo Feedback Develop Requirements Test Test Develop Sprints ââ¬â Optional Priority Features Demo Feedback Requirements Design Test Design Test Demo Feedback Develop Requirements Test Demo Feedback Requirements Design Test Sprints ââ¬â Medium Priority Features 13 à ©Lisa Sieverts Phil Ailes Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management Agile Advantages 14 à ©Lisa Sieverts Phil Ailes 7 Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management Agile Advantages â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Shorter development cycles â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Customer participates, providing direct feedback â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Team-ownership ââ¬â developers, testers, analysts and customers work together â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Process encourages and easily adapts to change â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Improved quality because testing is continuous 15 à ©Lisa Sieverts Phil Ailes Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management Agile Disadvantages 16 à ©Lisa Sieverts Phil Ailes 8 Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management Agile Disadvantages â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Lack of established processes â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Management resistance to change â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Reduced (apparent) predictability â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Requires culture change â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Itââ¬â¢s new ââ¬â there isnââ¬â¢t a lot to draw upon 17 à ©Lisa Sieverts Phil Ailes Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management Project Life Cycle â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Traditional: waterfall ââ¬ââ⬠¯Initiate ââ¬ââ⬠¯Plan ââ¬ââ⬠¯Define ââ¬ââ⬠¯Design ââ¬ââ⬠¯Build ââ¬ââ⬠¯Test â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Agile Projects: iterative ââ¬ââ⬠¯Envision ââ¬ââ⬠¯Speculate ââ¬ââ⬠¯Explore ââ¬ââ⬠¯Adapt ââ¬ââ⬠¯Close ââ¬ââ⬠¯Repeat as necessary 18 à ©Lisa Sieverts Phil Ailes 9 Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management The Team â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Waterfall ââ¬ââ⬠¯Sponsor ââ¬ââ⬠¯Product Manager ââ¬ââ⬠¯Project Manager ââ¬ââ⬠¯The Team ââ¬â defined roles â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Agile ââ¬ââ⬠¯Sponsor ââ¬ââ⬠¯Product Owner ââ¬ââ⬠¯Scrum Master ââ¬ââ⬠¯The Team ââ¬â variable roles 19 à ©Lisa Sieverts Phil Ailes Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management The Requirements â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Waterfall ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Large Document ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Formal, based on analysis ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Performed by Business Analyst ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Completed before any development begins â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Agile ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Small Index Cards ââ¬ââ⬠¯ User Stories, based on conversation ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Performed by the Product Owner ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Completed ââ¬Å"just in timeâ⬠20 à ©Lisa Sieverts Phil Ailes 10 Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management The Foundation Documents â⬠¢ Waterfall ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Work Breakdown Structure 100 % of Scope 21 à ©Lisa Sieverts Phil Ailes Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management The Foundation Documents â⬠¢ Agile ââ¬ââ⬠¯ The Product Backlog Roman Pichler, Agile Product Management 22 à ©Lisa Sieverts Phil Ailes 11 Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management The Schedule â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Waterfall ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Built before work begins ââ¬ââ⬠¯ End date is often â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Agile ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Rebuilt every sprint ââ¬ââ⬠¯ End date evolves based on team velocity ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Focused on nearterm accuracy ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Emphasizes regular delivery of working features predetermined ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Strives to predict the future ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Emphasizes delivery of the entire product 23 à ©Lisa Sieverts Phil Ailes Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management Risk â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Waterfall ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Inherently high-risk based on long product cycles ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Emphasizes the ability to predict the future ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Risk Register â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Agile ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Inherently low-risk based on customer feedback ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Emphasizes adaptation to changing environment ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Risk Register 24 à ©Lisa Sieverts Phil Ailes 12 Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management Quality â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Waterfall ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Testing is at the end â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Agile ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Testing begins before development of the project ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Testers work separately from developers ââ¬ââ⬠¯ User Acceptance occurs at the end of the project ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Testers and developers work together simultaneously ââ¬ââ⬠¯ User Acceptance occurs at end of every sprint 25 à ©Lisa Sieverts Phil Ailes Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management Whatââ¬â¢s Different? â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Waterfall ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Plan all in advance ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Work Breakdown Structure ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Functional specs ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Gantt chart ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Status reports ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Deliver at the end ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Learn at the end ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Follow the plan ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Manage tasks â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Agile ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Plan as you go ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Product Backlog ââ¬ââ⬠¯ User stories ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Release plan ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Story boards ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Deliver as you go ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Learn every sprint ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Adapt everything ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Team ownership 26 à ©Lisa Sieverts Phil Ailes 13 Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management Summary â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Both Waterfall and Agile have the same goals: ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Delivering a well- tested product that satisfies the customer within an efficient time frame that doesnââ¬â¢t leave the team worn out 27 à ©Lisa Sieverts Phil Ailes Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management Questions 28 à ©Lisa Sieverts Phil Ailes 14 Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management Thank You 29 à ©Lisa Sieverts Phil Ailes Waterfall vs. Agile Project Management Contact Us â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Lisa Sieverts ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Facilitated Change ââ¬ââ⬠¯ www.lisasieverts.com ââ¬ââ⬠¯ 603.762.0235 â⬠¢Ã¢â¬ ¯ Phil Ailes ââ¬ââ⬠¯ Ailes Consulting ââ¬ââ⬠¯ www.ailes-consulting.com ââ¬ââ⬠¯ 603.903.7051 30 à ©Lisa Sieverts Phil Ailes 15
Sunday, July 21, 2019
The Issues Of Forest Fires Environmental Sciences Essay
The Issues Of Forest Fires Environmental Sciences Essay In the 21st century, influences of forest fires from demographic rapid changes, increase in human activities and unpredictable change in climate have become a crucial environmental problem in the ecosystems of the Southeast Asia region. It has unfavorably affected the natural environment and has put to risk the sustainable development as well as the management of resources (ADB, 2001). Indeed, haze pollution has been seriously affecting Indonesia and its neighboring countries due to the extensive burning of forests that arises in almost every year in Indonesia during the last 25 years. In 1997-1998, the global community raised its awareness on the critical conditions of constant haze and burning of forests. The occurrence of forest fires continued over long periods of time since the year 1998. The worst circumstances happened during 2001 and 2002 where the forest reserves and plantation areas of Riau province, West and Central Kalimantan and Sumatra burned. These corresponding areas were also affected by forest fires in 2003. The widespread forest fires happened in Sumatra and Kalimantan during March-July 2004 led to the increase of air pollution in Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei, and especially in Indonesia. To determine the extent of burning is by knowing the extent of deforestation in Indonesia given that it is greatly caused by fire and not the destruction through spraying of chemicals. Estimates on the loss of forests have been compiled since 1985 and is evident in the report of World Bank in 2001. According to the reports, beginning at 1985 to 1997, the range of forest cover has been reduced from 119 million hectares to approximately 100 million hectares. The forest fires happened in 1997 to 1998 desolated 1.7 million hectares in Sumatra, 6.5 million hectares in Kalimantan, 1.0 million hectares in Irian Jaya and 0.4 million hectares in Sulewesi, and brought about air pollution in Indonesia and its neighboring countries. From the given information on the annual loss of forests during 1985 to 1997, it is expected that the forest lands in Indonesia is now just over 90 million hectares from 1.7 million hectares. Causes of forest burning The sources of forest burning in Indonesia are divided into three groups: traditional cultivators, small scale investors, and large scale investors. The most long-lived source of forest burning is the subsistence and semi-subsistence traditional cultivators. Some of these are the inactive farmers who burn their small lands after harvest in order to kill the pests or weeds and also to refresh the soil to be used for planting. Others are known as the shifting cultivators who practice the common slash and burn methods to empty a small plot of the forest for crop cultivation. The second source of forest burning is the pioneer and migrant farmers. These farmers are given the authorization to acquire several hectares of forested land for them to clear by burning and of course to plant commercial tree crops. The third source of forest burning is the timber and palm oil plantation companies. Timber plantation companies first select trees of commercial value for cutting in an area and then the other remaining trees and bushes are burned in order to make way for the planting of trees that grow much faster and are used for commercial purposes. The oil plantation companies also apply the similar process of forest burning in order to create widespread palm oil plantations. The Indonesian government grants these companies of additional land concessions because these sectors such as logging and palm oil companies contribute significantly to the external trade of the Indonesian economy and thus provides a major source of foreign revenue. Apart from the three main sources of forest burning, there are other factors that contribute to the forest fires. These are political, economic, physiographic, sociocultural, and institutional factors as well. The most important of these are the policies and institutions. According to the Asian Development Bank (2001), lack of political will, inappropriate and poorly specified policies, weak legislation, ambiguous regulations, bureaucratic procedures, land-use conflicts, and inadequate resources for enforcement of laws and regulations were again and again crucial and crippling constraints. Harmful effects of forest burning It has indeed proved by the international environmental and health organizations that forest burning and air pollution have serious destructive consequences. The harmful effects are both seen in the areas of burning and in other areas and countries far from the fires (Jones, 2006). These impacts have several dimensions- economic, environmental, ecological, social, and others that may be onsite and offsite, direct or indirect (ADB, 2001). It is widely considered that the most serious effect of forest burning has been on public health, particularly as a result of people breathing in pollutants from burning of forests. Inhaling the smoke from the fires result in respiratory ailments such as upper respiratory tract infections, bronchial asthma and decrease in lung functioning. Also, it is evident that the smoke has serious effects on the skin and on the cardiovascular system. According to the estimations made by the Friends of the Earth in 1997, the haze has already claimed the lives of 19 people in Indonesia and over 40,000 people have been hospitalized. Up to 70 million people across the region are being affected, and health experts have warned that up to 20 % of all deaths in the region could be caused by the smog. Furthermore, press reports in June 2003 stated that thousands of people admitted to hospitals in Central and Kalimantan complained on breathing difficulties as well as eye irritation, while in 2004, health clinics and hospitals on the island of Sumatra mentioned that several patients seek for medications on respiratory problems. Forest fire impacts have also affected the social welfare through the displacement of communities, loss of income sources, and decreasing livelihood opportunities (ADB, 2001). Another serious effect of forest burning has been on climate, agriculture and bio-diversity. Further decrease in rainfall combining with effects of El Nino and decrease in sunlight that affected the photosynthesis of plants are due to the smoke brought about by forest burning. Besides this, forest burning has also led to soil erosion and flooding that ultimately reduced the productivity of agriculture. Furthermore, the Indonesian rain forests are home to a wide variety of plants and animals where in some of these are rare or endangered. According to the World Bank and Friends for the Earth, as a result of widespread forest burning, it has threatened the lives of numerous rare or endangered species. Forest fires also contribute to the global climate change and warming due to its greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere. These harmful effects, definitely, have detrimental economic and financial impacts on Indonesia and its neighboring countries. Evidently, the costs of these impacts include loss of forest timber, reduced agricultural production, losses resulting from soil erosion, medical expenses caused by ailments directly related to the haze, increased proneness to pests and diseases, need for new investments in forest rehabilitation and fire protection measures, costs arising from disruption to air travel and transport, and decreased revenue from tourism (ADB, 2001; Jones, 2006). It also had serious impacts on the means of livelihoods of indigenous people and it threatened the ability of the poor to improve their lives (ASEAN STRATEGY). According to the estimations made by the Asian Development Bank, the incident during the 1997-1998 alone cost the people and the Indonesian government around US$8.9 to US$9.7 billion. Linkage between climate change and social development Undoubtedly, the major impacts and threats of transboundary haze pollution that can contribute to climactic change are widespread. The most vulnerable to haze pollution (or climate change) are the poor because of the inability to adapt and recover to certain changes due to low income and limited access to basic services and needs. Also, the areas that they live in are highly exposed to natural hazards and are linked with their sources of income such as agriculture and forestry which are known to be climate-sensitive sectors. That is why it is necessary to come up with an immediate action. One solution is the need for adaptation where it is a process through which societies make themselves better able to cope with an uncertain future. It calls for taking the right measures to reduce the negative effects of transboundary haze pollution (or climate change) by making appropriate adjustments and changes. There are several options and opportunities to adapt such as technological options, b ehavior change at individual level and early warning systems for extreme events. As a result of the speed at which change is happening, it is important that the vulnerability of Indonesia and other neighboring countries to haze pollution (or climate change) is reduced and their capacity to adapt is increased and national adaptation plans are implemented. Although adaptation to haze pollution (or climate change) is essential and is considered as an urgent priority, the affected countries have limitations that make adaptation difficult. These limitations are human capacity and financial resources. The major barriers for adaptation are the lack of funding in various forms and difficulties in accessing the funds which are available. In order for these affected countries to understand the impacts and vulnerabilities of the issue, as well as facilitating better policy decisions and management, it is necessary for research and training to be included in adaptation. However, these affected countries still face difficulties in incorporating concerns regarding the haze pollution into national policies because of lack of resources and institutional capacities. Despite the difficulties, in order for effective adaptation measures to work, the stakeholders must consider integrating the issue of haze pollution in all levels of decision making espec ially in planning and budgeting. Objectives The purpose of this paper is to present a framework analysis in such a way that it will be applied to the social issue being discussed, specifically the transboundary pollution in Southeast Asia. The framework tool to be used will be based on the polycentric approach in order to enhance policy actions regarding the widespread haze pollution in Indonesia and other affected neighboring countries. Also, one of the objectives of this paper is to discuss the stakeholders using the stakeholder analysis wherein it will identify the people, groups, and institutions involved that will influence the issue positively or negatively. Throughout the paper, included in the objectives, still, is to come up with a conclusion based on the analysis and recognize the failures that the framework tool was not able to elucidate. Finally, it also aims to give recommendations for the improvement or success of the issue. Stakeholder Analysis Secondary Stakeholders Stakeholders Interest(s) in the issue Assessment of Impact Influence of the group Global Agencies -World Bank, IMF, UNDP, UNEP, WHO, WMO, UNICEF Adaptation measures on haze pollution Prevention of haze pollution across the globe High High Regional Organizations -ASEAN, APEC, ADB Prevention of haze pollution in Indonesia and affected countries particularly in Asia High High Concerned institutions -health care, environmental protection, schools, religious organizations, charitable institutions Prevention of haze pollution Low Medium Concerned nongovernmental institutions -emergency associations (e.g. Red Cross, Medicins sans Frontieres) -Development NGOs -Environmental NGOs Prevention of haze pollution Low Medium Primary Stakeholders Stakeholders Interest(s) in the issue Assessment of Impact Influence of the group Victim State governments -Singapore, Brunei, Malaysia Indonesia -relevant central government agencies (Health, Environment, Tourism) -local authorities (agencies representing small farmers) Increase in response capacity on haze pollution Prevention of widespread haze pollution Adaptation measures High High Victim Industries -tourism recreation -airlines -ancillary industries Prevention on widespread haze pollution Medium Low Low-income groups; farmers; minor forest users Increase in adaptive capacities High Medium Culprit state governments -Indonesia -central government agencies (agricultural, environment) -regional/provincial agencies -local authorities (agencies representing small farmers) Decrease in source of foreign revenue High High Culprit Industries -Forestry -Palm oil -ancillary (e.g. haulage) Decrease or loss in plantation business Medium Medium III. Analysis Framework of Analysis The framework to be used on the social issue of haze pollution in Indonesia is the polycentric approach. According to Ostrom (2010), polycentricity is a useful analytical approach for understanding and improving efforts to reduce the threat of climate change. Furthermore, polycentric implies the independence of many centers of decision making to each other. These centers of decision making take each other into account in competitive relationships, engage in all manners of contractual and cooperative projects or aid in to central mechanisms to resolve conflicts and various political jurisdictions and function in an organized manner to which consistency and predictable patterns of interacting behavior are involved. Rather than a monocentric unit, polycentric systems are characterized by multiple governing authorities at differing scales. Each unit within a polycentric system exercises considerable independence to make norms and rules within a specific domain (such as family, a firm, lo cal government, a network of local governments, a state or province, a region, a national government, or international regime)(Ostrom, 2010). Participants involved in this system have the advantage to use local knowledge and learning from other sectors who are engaged in trial and error process. Problems identified with non-contributors, local tyrants and inappropriate discrimination can be addressed and major investments made in new scientific information and innovations when larger units get involved. Polycentric systems are believed to have considerable advantages because of their mechanisms for mutual monitoring, learning and adaptation of better strategies. This system also enhances innovation, learning, adaptation, trustworthiness, levels of cooperation of participants, and the achievement of more effective, equitable, and sustainable outcomes at multiple scales, even though no institutional arrangement can totally eliminate opportunism with respect to the provision and production of collective goods (Ostrom, 2010). Through this framework tool, adaptation measures and prevention of haze pollution in Indonesia and its neighboring countries would be much easier to be implemented because of its ability to solve such problems in a collective manner that includes all its stakeholders rather than focusing only on one central stakeholder.
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