Theorizing Health Communication

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The author, Winnickoff, et al (2009), wanted to establish beliefs about the health effects of third hand smoke and home smoking bans, there was the sure intent to asses the health beliefs of adults on the issue of exposing children to third hand smoke, whether smokers and non-smokers have different views on the same. How does cigarette smoking affect people and mostly children? The author addressed issues such as the types of smoke to be able to fully understand and come up with concrete facts. There are different types of smoking, which are second hand smoking and third hand smoking.

There is no form of exposure that could label as safe. All levels of exposure have their own effects. States have then been compelled to form laws that govern cigarette smoking to protect other people who might be easily exposed to such environments. For instance, people who work in bars, workplaces and the like. Second hand smoking has been found to have adversely affect adults and causing a high rate of death. The third hand smoking has been found to affect the health of young children.
According to Winnickoff, et al (2009), beliefs about the effects of thirdhand smoking on health are independently connected with total restriction of smoking at home. It was clear that thirdhand smoking is a health hazard to young children and is an important fact to consider as a reason enough to push for bans on smoking at home. The health information on thirdhand smoke contamination can easily be placed in current tobacco campaigns, programs as well as clinical practices.
Types of cigarette smoke and their effects to the people exposed to them is also an important factor to understand to be able to find best ways of alienating the same and keeping on the low effects caused by the same. For instance if one has to smoke at home he should then ensure that the fans are on , windows are open or smoke from somewhere open and far from the house and wait until that smell of smoke is over.
How well are people exposed to facts concerning cigarette smoke and their effects? Healthcare (2008).  How do beliefs vary from different groups, what do they think about cigarette smoke and how willing are they to adapt to a healthier way of living was some of the important factors that the author had in mind.
If people are able to follow policies stipulated concerning cigarette smoke the lives of people will be in less danger. People will be in a position to avoid sicknesses arising from such smoke for instance, lung cancer or chest problems. The lives of children and their health will also be safe, as they will no longer be exposed to harmful smoke. People at work will also feel respected in that they will not be forced to inhale the smoke that comes from smokers especially from bars. There are obvious dangers if people literally ignore the obvious negatives of smoking. The number of death rates will increase as well as poor health conditions caused by cigarette smoke could be highly realized.
There was an effort to find out the major beliefs on the effect of third hand smoke to children, in that connection, there were varying differences between adult. Some of them felt that the third hand smoke affected children whereas others thought the secondhand smoke affected children. According to the author, it was arrived at that, third hand smoke was independently associated with rules prohibiting home smoking whereas second hand smoking was not independently connected to rules prohibiting smoking at home or in vehicle.

Patriarchal Religions

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  Religion is belief in God in a particular manner, which is particularly based on Gods will, what were His intentions when He created us, the universe? Religion involves a lot of spiritualism, observing various beliefs and commands, which are more like a behavior code that humans should follow as a sign of obedience to God or rather, follow given laws as stipulated by the word of God. The laws are identified as sharia in Islam, Halakhah in Judaism and the canon law in Christianity. Patriarchal simply means having a male dominant environment or rather male biasness. That means in the case of patriarchal religions the males dominate giving them the top seats. Obligating them to make major decisions and fully be in charge. It is very evident especially in the three religions that are Christianity, Judaism and Islam. The general overseers’ positions are given to male. The Christian religion is trying to embrace women and placing them as leaders though not all denominations approve the same

For instance the Roman Catholic who have their overall general as the Pope. They have literally refused to have women into priesthood the best they can do is have them as sisters or nuns. Judaism is also trying to incorporate female leaders but at a very slow pace. The Muslims do not allow their female counterparts into the mosque during their worship days.      The patriarchal religions can also be refereed to as Abrahamic religions. They differ as well as resemble one another in one way or the other. According to Eden (2006), Judaism refers itself as the religion of the offspring of Jacob the founder being Abraham or Moses. As for Christianity, it started as a section of Judaism, which was called Jewish Christianity, later it became a separate religion after differing on some beliefs its founder being Jesus. Islam was founded by Muhammad based on teachings of the Quran. The Christians use the bible, which also has the New Testament whereas the Jews use the bible without the New Testament and the Islam use the quran.

The three religions have some common factors such as monotheism, which is, to believe in one God. They believe in one God though they refer to Him using different names. All the same, Christianity differs slightly in that they believe in one God yes but they also believe in the holy trinity, which entails God the father, God the son, God the Holy Spirit. That is to say, God in three.

The Abrahamic religions also believe in one eternal God maker of heaven and earth who also functions as the supreme ruler. They believe that He gives His divine will through His holy word, which He was able to have it written by making use of prophets. He gave them visions as well as spoke to them giving them the ability to write the same. Also that there shall be a judgment day that will define where one will spend his eternity based on his conduct here on earth. People shall go either to heaven or to hell, heaven being for those who obeyed His commands whereas hell will be for those who disobeyed Him. The religions also resemble in that they believe in the word of God and that they have to make choices in life between good and evil concerning obeying God. There is also the story of creation to resurrection and finally judgment. There also were town that were very symbolic to the three religions. For instance, Jerusalem is a holy city for the Judaism believers, as for the Christians it was where Jesus was brought for dedication. In the Islam perspective, it was the city of David and Christ. They also have festivals that are also part of their religion. The religions also have similarities when it comes to issues pertaining to food. Judaism and Islam have very strict measures when it comes to the mater of food. The Christians also have some restrictions such as they are not allowed to eat blood but as compared to the other two Christianity is a bit loose on issues concerning food.

Worship is showing devotion, acknowledgment, praising and serving God. The Patriarchal Religions worship God in various ways. For instance, they worship God through their giving’s. Whereby they give offerings, tithe and first fruits of their produce. They also observe the Sabbath day, which is a day that is kept as a rest and worship day. The only difference is that the days differ. For instance, Christians have Sunday as their Sabbath day, Jews have Saturday and the Muslims have Friday as their Sabbath day. However, the Muslims do not refer to the Sabbath day as a rest day but rather a special worship day. They do not believe that God got tired after creation. They also have fasting periods to help intensify their talk and relationship with God. They all pray to God. Among the differences in worship are they pray to God but the Christians pray using the holy trinity whereas Judaism and Islam pray to a singular God as per Rolfe (2004). Their Sabbath day is not a common day they differ.  The clergy in all the three religions differ in names. For instance, the Muslims refer to their clergy as Imams, the Jews call them Rabbi while Christians call them Bishops, minister, priests or pastors. The Muslims and Christians believe that Jesus died by crucifixion but the Jews believe Jesus did not die but rather ascended to heaven during cruxification.only Christians believe that Jesus resurrected but the latter do not believe so. The three religions work hard to spread the good news through various ways. Christianity has managed to have the largest number of followers followed by Islam then Judaism. Judaism encourages conversion but does not have an active use of missionaries as Christians do. All the same, one is able to convert and become a Jew if he follows a given set of laws that he will be subject to. All the same, they put emphasis on being righteous.  , as they prefer a good person who is not a Jew other than a Jew who is labeled as being bad for the fact that he is not righteous. Christians put a lot of emphasis on missionary works so that they convert as many as possible in the whole world. Many churches, mosques and synagogues are being established as worship centers hence people have easy access of such centers. They are also using technology such as computer or telecast, whereby they have programs based on their religion, which preaches or teaches the word of God, discussions on that particular religion, they also come up with outreach programs such as open-air teachings. Giving out of written articles that emphasize on those religions. Articles such as magazines. In addition, establishing projects such as schools, digging of bore holes as an initiative to assist the society. This works as a good reminder to the society of a given religion. The religions are also taught in schools as part of the curriculum. The students are exposed to such religion study and are tested on the same. All the same, the students are only subject to take a religion study that he or she is part of. For instance if the student is a Christian the student will only take Christian religious education and not Islam or Judaism Sometimes due to differences disharmony has risen but if they are to spread the good news, they have to beat their differences as said by McClatchy, (2011).

Living in a Hazardous Environment

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The environment is a focal point for human existence. It becomes unsafe and inhabitable when we indulge in activities that are not Eco-friendly. As a result of continuous neglect of the environment pollution, desertification, soil erosion, famine and drought come up making human life unbearable (Smith & Petley, 2007). Besides human activity, the environment can become a hazardous place to be due to natural factors. Natural disasters like floods, landslides, hurricanes and tornadoes cannot be explained. There is a big hazard to the environment whenever natural calamities occur. Property destruction and massive loss of lives occurs following natural calamities. Smith and Petley (2007) in their book Environmental Hazards describe how land slides occur; mechanics involved, hazard and assess the risk.

Landslides are natural environmental hazards adversely affecting the environment and human life. Apart from having increased in the recent years, landslides cause loss of lives and property destruction. Given that developing countries lack financial stability, landslides have a negative impact on them as compared to developed ones. There is lack of governmental intervention to look into landslides and offer financial support on victims. Lack of strategies for future calamities are rarely available making the hazard worse. Recovery measures for those affected by landslides don’t exist making recovery impossible in some cases. We will attempt to look at land slides as environmental hazards, their effects and preventive measures.
Synthesis of 20 journal articles about the hazard

Causes of landslides

Karsli,F. Atasoy,M. Yalcin, A.& Reis, S. (2009). Effects of land-use changes on landslides in a     landslide-prone area (Ardesen, Rize, NE Turkey), Environmental Monitoring and   Assessment. Dordrecht: Sep 2009. Vol. 156, Iss. 1-4; pg. 241, http://proquest.umi.com

 

In their book Karsli, Atasoy, Yalcin, & Reis discuss the major causes of landslides as lithology, heavy rainfall, slope gradient and aspect, terrain roughness and vegetation cover. The book carries us through a research conducted in The North Eastern Turkey, Ardesen black region which has had increased number of landslides. They also explain how scientists use photogrammetric skills to detect and predetermine occurrence of a landslide. Geographical Information System (GIS) has also been explained as an applicable tool to detect landslides in the mountainous region of Turkey. This book is useful in addressing landslides occurrence in regions that are hilly and offering preventive measures. The authors have skillfully addressed crucial issues and specifically solve the hazard of landslides in NE Turkey to some extent.

Effects

Rautela, P. & Pande, R. (2005). Implications of ignoring the old disaster management plans:         Lessons learnt from the Amparav tragedy of 23 September 2004 in the Nainital district of            Uttaranchal (India). Disaster Prevention and Management. Bradford: 2005. Vol. 14, Iss. http://proquest.umi.com

The article by Rautela and Pande discusses how landslide has massive negative impacts on those who fall victim. It is an article that analyzes an Indian, Amparav case study recorded after the 2004 landslide. I find the article interesting because it reaches out to a specific group of people who have gone through the environmental hazard and aims to establish ways of dealing with a similar case in the future. It focuses on creating awareness of hazard prone regions so as to prepare those who face the risk of landslides later on. Documenting disaster solving strategies is proposed as one of the ways of dealing with future incidences.

Banker, P. (2011).Mudslide kills 3 girls, Lahore: Feb 13, 2011.http://proquest.umi.com

The severity of landslide and mudslide can be explained by the death rates reported annually following this hazard. The above article drew my attention as it sites how three young girls fro one family lost their lives as a result of a mudslide in Khapro tehsil of Mirpur Khas. This is just one of the many reported cases not to mention those that go unreported making the hazard a life threatening issue of concern.

Pokhrel, D.  Bhandari, S. & Viraraghavan, T.(2009). Natural hazards and environmental   implications in Nepal. Disaster Prevention and Management. Bradford: 2009. Vol. 18,      Iss. 5; p. 478, http://proquest.umi.com

Addressing the implications of a natural hazard is not an easy task. Pokhrel and Bandhari address issues that cause landslides and give evidenced details on the exact implications that landslides have had on Nepal inhabitants. The journal intrigues me as they explain that natural calamities claim a total of 1063 lives annually. Apart from landslides, earthquakes are prevalent in Nepal. Some of the reasons given are its rugged topography, varied climatic conditions, lying in an active tectonic zone as well as its geological complexity. These factors are relevant in the study of other regions that are similarly affected by landslides.

Business North Carolina, (2010).Landslide spooks foes of those so inclined, Apr2010, Vol. 30        Issue 4, p48-    48, 2/3p, http://www.ebscohost.com

The report is useful as it explains how landslides cause critical damage and loss of lives. It starts by narrating how a previous landslide took five lives in amusement park. Artificial slope act is a plan by top officials in North Carolina to reduce the dangers attached to constructing on steeply sloped regions at the ghost town. Poor engineered projects will be minimized to avoid collapsing in the future and destruction. The article reveals government commitment to protect citizens by curbing future incidents.

Vorenberg, S.(2011). West Hills landslide damage in Multnomah County a challenge to fix

            Daily Journal of Commerce (Portland, OR) 01/31/2011 Regional Business News ,             http://www.ebscohost.com

The article is an interesting review of the effects of landslide. It describes how the workers are stranded and unable to go to work as a result of the landslide leaving road sections closed. Whenever landslides take place there are damages that need to be fixed making the adjustment cumbersome as they distort the norm of life.

Science News. When Mountains Fall, Washington: Aug 29, 1992, Vol. 142, Iss. 9; pg. 136, 3 pgs             http://proquest.umi.com

This article makes us look at further effects of landslides. It covers the story of how mountains slide infrequently harming the population.

Brown, J. (2001).Researchers confirm link between landslides and soil porosity, Civil        Engineering. New York: Feb 2001, Vol. 71, Iss. 2; pg. 18, http://proquest.umi.com

The journal is an interesting review of recent researches conducted and how they indicate landslide behavior to be sensitive to any small variations of soil. It offers focus on results from research making it a valid source.

Detecting landslides

Lee, S. & Choi, J. (2004). Landslide susceptibility mapping using GIS and the weight-of  evidence model. International Journal of Geographical Information Science, Dec2004, Vol. 18 Issue 8, p789-814, 26p; http://www.ebscohost.com

Is an interesting book that explains how GIS is used for information and predetermining land slide. It has been effective in China and Korea. It thus helps in making urban planning possible.

Olsen, M. & Stuedlein, A. (2010). Discussion of ‘Use of terrestrial laser scanning f characterization of retrogressive landslides in sensitive clay and rotational landslides in          river banks’. Canadian Geotechnical Journal, Oct, Vol. 47 Issue 10, p1164-1168, 4p. http://www.ebscohost.com

Terrestrial laser scanning cannot be explained in a better way than what Olsen and Stuedlen have done in their journal of retrogressive landslides in sensitive clay. This journal lets the reader know of its purpose as a journal which provides great versatility before and after the landslide. The unique factor in using TLS is its role in assessing emergencies especially in sensitive clay locations. The case studies from Canada offer insight into appropriateness of using TLS for monitoring purposes in places like river banks and bed shores. TLS is one of the newest discoveries which have proved to be relevant in geomorphologic studies.

Rosin, P. & Hervás, J. (2005). Remote sensing image thresholding methods for determining          landslide activity. International Journal of Remote Sensing, 3/20/2005, Vol. 26 Issue 6,           p1075- http://ebscohost.umi.com

The international journal is relevant in solving issues related to landslides through using the remote sensing technology. The journal lengthily covers detection and monitoring of landslides and mitigates plans especially in hilly areas. It uses updated methods in detection making it possible to alleviate damage and destruction.

Hazard management

Ashish K. (2010).Landslide management: concept and philosophy, Disaster Prevention and          Management. Bradford: 2010. Vol. 19, Iss. 1; pg. 119, http://proquest.umi.com.

Ashish in his journal comprehensively covers the causes of landslide and how to manage them as natural disaster. He starts by explaining how the earth is a dynamic sphere with endogenetic forces which keep getting deformed as the force of gravity continually tries to reduce them, in a cycle that results to landslides. His journal addresses the severe effects that landslides have on human life and property destruction. One reason that this journal captures my attention is how he addresses the effects as setbacks to any human development thereby implementing means of managing the calamity to avoid future damages. He further employs management as a tool that sensitizes people on the dangers involved as well as educating them so as to offer hazard mitigation strategies. The journal is an incredible source in describing disaster management.

Vorenberg, S. (2010).Oregon agency reveals hidden landslide dangers. Daily Journal of    Commerce. Portland. http://proquest.umi.com

Vorenberg’s journal is an interesting source of information on prevalence of landslides. It attempts to explain the state of those inhabiting the environment as vulnerable as a result of the large water mass under the earth, best referred to as underground springs. Oregon and Portland is the article main focus and he reports how landslide rates have gone up. When the springs come up there are forces within the earth’s surface and the force results to slide of the surface or land. Human activity to suit needs such as constructing highways, are affected by landslides forcing them to close the routes they use for transport. The article is interesting as it explains how the transport industry has partnered with agencies to solve the problem through use of lidar scans.

 

Ravindra K. Pande, D. & Ravinder S.(2009).Landslide hazard zonation in Hanuman Chatti area of Uttarakhand, India Kumaun University, Nainital, India. http://proquest.umi.com

Most hilly and mountainous regions are prone to cases of landslides. It is traumatizing to go through the landslide once then again. Ravindra, Pandre and Ravinder explore how Hanuman Chatti in India has to deal with annual landslides cases. They distract normal activities and tourist traffic. The immense financial implications that landslides have had on this region is what interests me about this article. There have been around five new cases discoveries of landslides in the region. The article discusses the need to implement hazard management tools to help solve the problem.

Uniyal. A, (2008).Prognosis and mitigation strategy for major landslide-prone areas; A case         study of landslide in Uttarkashi township of Uttarakhand (India).Disaster Prevention and        Management. Bradford: Vol. 17, Iss. 5; pg. 622, http://proquest.umi.com

This article is interesting as it covers on a topic that is central to addressing the calamity hazard. It offers a prognosis and hazard alleviation in areas that are landslide zones. The main aim is trying to avoid environmental degradation. It encourages the community to comprehensively get involved in developing strategies of dealing with the hazard. in an attempt to minimize the impact of such disasters in the future. It explains the danger prone areas as those situated in fragile rocks and complex tectonics like Uttarkashi. Of importance is that the article urges residents to employ land use patterns that are friendlier to the environment.

Remedy

Anonymous. (2005).10 Consulting Geologists and Engineers, Canadian Mining Journal. Don       Mills: 2005 pg. 34, 4 pgs, http://proquest.umi.com

Consulting geologists and engineers are a group of professionals who deal with implementing preventive measures for natural calamities such as landslides. They have had long term experience in their fields and work to offer environmental assessment programs so as to develop ways of managing disasters. Piteau Associate Engineering interests me because they offer a range of environmental consultancies like hydro geological and geotechnical services to the world.

Brown, J. (2002).Satellite monitoring enhances landslide prediction. Civil engineering. New York: Jun     2002, Vol. 72, Iss. 6; pg. 22, 2 pgs, http://proquest.umi.com

Civil engineers who are directly involved in constructions on sloppy areas are essential in determining factors that cause landslides. The journal is useful as it analyzes how engineers use inclinometers and extensometers devices to measure land and its slopes to be able to predict which areas are likely to be affected by land slide. Researchers are also assessing land slides from outer space.

Sivitz, L. (2000). Chalk reveals greatest underwater landslide, Science News. Washington: Dec 9,             2000. Vol. 158, Iss. 24; pg. 373, http://proquest.umi.com

It has been said that the greatest underwater slides about 65m years, were following the cataclysmic event that eliminated the last dinosaurs. This is an interesting article as it gives us scientific explanation of landslides.

Ming-Chou,S. Daigee; S. & Yao-Chu Chiu. (2008). How Do Disaster Characteristics Influence    Risk Perception? Risk Analysis: An International Journal, Jun2008, Vol. 28    http://ebscohost.umi.com

The article suitably serves the purpose of explaining how risks are dealt with and those affected by them. It is a journal that offers comprehensive reports from credible sources like NRPS National risk perception survey.

Conclusion

Living in a hazard environment is not healthy for any living thing. As earlier discussed human beings are involved in making life risky through the activities they indulge in (Smith & Petley, 2007). It is also evident that natural calamities largely affect our lives in a great way. Land slides have had adverse effects to human life and property destruction. The above annotated bibliographies discuss effects, impact and remedies for landslides comprehensively. Each author has contributed immensely in defining the landslide hazard and its impacts. Activities such as transport are put to a stand still during such incidents (Vorenberg, 2011).   There have been developments of intervention measures to help eradicate the calamity by those affected. Business North Carolina (2010) reports that the Government has established an act to promote save developments and constructions and further avoid destruction of property. Geologists and engineers have formed associations to address the issue and offer assistance where needed (Anonymous, 2005).

Exclusive Oil and Gas Contracts: Domestic and International

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Abstract

Generally, this paper seeks to reflect more light on Oil and gas contract vis-à-vis the structuring of an oil and gas exploration and development scheme in Malawi. The government of Malawi hopes that this scheme will be a success owing to the fact that, Malawi’s neighboring Great Rift Valley in Uganda has oil. This is an indication that Malawi might be having some as well. This paper will give an introduction on the background of Malawi in relation to oil and gas; it will also give a review of the Myanmar PSC and make necessary recommendations as to whether Malawi ought to utilize it in attracting exploration and investment. Furthermore, an identification of some of the Myanmar PSC provisions will also be reviewed in determining whether they ought to be included in whatever contract the Malawi Government finally drops.

Introduction

Malawi is one of the landlocked countries geographically located in Nyasa land (Southwest Africa).This country can be categorized to be amongst the world’s least developed countries, as well as most densely populated countries. The economy of Malawi is largely based on agriculture to which the rural areas occupy most. The economy of Malawi historically depended on aids from World Bank, individual nations (foreign aids) and the International Monetary Fund.  By 2009, it was estimated that Malawi had a $12.81 GDP with per capita GDP worth $ 900. Furthermore, the inflation was estimated to be approximately 8.5 % during this same year. Since Malawi is largely populated, and yet faces these economic challenges, it is vital that the oil and gas sectors be looked at to verify any chances of increasing the general economy of the country. This could be a significant strategy in the entire economy of Malawi as a nation, and thus effecting the structuring of an oil and gas exploration and development scheme in Malawi (Background Note: Malawi, 2010).

Despite the evident fact that the Malawian economy is determined by the performance of its agricultural sector (particularly in tobacco production which is Malawi’s top fore earner), oil is a very vital aspect of the said economy. Malawi has for a ling time lacked both gas and oil reserves and thus depended mostly on imported petroleum products from its neighboring countries. Several international oil companies are said to have their marketing activities as well as distribution in Malawi which imports all its petroleum products in a refined state. Oil industry in Malawi is under the regulation of the Petroleum Control Commission (PCC) which is mandated to regulate both the distribution and regulation of fuel. According to statistics, 74% of Malawi’s commercial energy needs are supplied by the oil products, to which the market exceeds 20,000 tonnes in each given month. For a long time, the industry player in this sector has been the Energem and Nyasa Investment Oil and Transport Company, BP Malawi, Total Malawi, Chevron Malawi, Injena Petroleum ltd and Petroida (Malawi Economy Profile, 2010).

In 2004, a team of US climate researchers raised Malawian’s hope of ever owning oil reserves in Malawi. The country is said to have a potential chance of having oil in its land. The team of researchers alleged that there could be some oil under Lake Malawi. This is however contrary to previous researches which concluded to the effect that, oil and gas have not yet formed under the said lake. The structures as well as age of Lake Malawi’s sediments scientifically suggest that it is capable o harboring oil. More evidence of oil has been found previously in the Great Rift Valley lakes `such as Lake Albert in Uganda. Therefore, although there exists no evidence to the contrary, it is evident that Malawi has the potential or the high chances that it could be having oil underneath its lake. Malawi’s lack of adequate funding has thus prevented it from embarking on an intensive search for oil in its regions, which would consequently increase their low economy. Below is a diagram illustrating on the drilling sites of Lake Malawi.

Source: Lake Malawi Drilling Project.

Utilizing the Myanmar PSC in attracting exploration and investment

The PSC contract contains some clauses which can be varied after some time upon exceptional circumstances. A model agreement provides the basis for negotiating an ultimate contract; however, changes may take the form of clarifications attached to the model type. There exist several clauses under the PSC, which could be necessary in attracting exploration and investment within Malawi. These clauses make the contract viable and worth embracing (Oil Sector, 2010).

By virtue of clause 2.2 under scope of the PSC, the contractor is given responsibility over MOGE for purposes of executing Petroleum operations but within the provisions of the contract itself. The contractors are further mandated to provide both technical and financial assistance necessary for petroleum operations. Since the given contractor will carry the risk of petroleum costs needed, he shall also have an economic interest in the development of the said petroleum within the contract area. This clause has a great significance to which the Malawi government might be interested in adopting. This is because the contractor benefits directly from the said contract having an economic interest in the general development of the petroleum contract. However, this clause is also challenging by nature because it gives the risks of the petroleum costs to the contractor (Oil Sector, 2010).

Basing on clause 3.1, the contract remains effective even during the exploration and production period. This would be very beneficial to Malawi as a government because it can be able to demand its contractual rights arising during the exploration as well as production. This will in turn attract investments and more explorations on the same. Furthermore, clause 3.2 gives the contractor discretion to extend the six month study period and the three month extension. This is very essential because it gives the contractor time to satisfactorily study the given exploration area and sufficient fulfillment of his obligations. Investors are most likely to be attracted to such a contract because of the said reason which could also enhance the exploration activities (Effect on Malawi economy, 2010).

Clause 4.1 of the PSC reflects on the relinquishments of contract areas exclusive of production, discovery and development areas. Upon the lapse of the exploration period, and the all contractual areas will\be relinquished with an exception of the excluded areas. If a contractor decides to enter into another extension of the said exploration period, (as described under clause 3.2), he can select 75 % of the contract area to conduct further petroleum operations. This is also an attractive bit of this PSC because it gives the contractor the opportunity to conduct any other activities in relation to the exploration of the petroleum. This ought to attract explorations and investors because any and many petroleum operations are allowed as stipulated in this contract.

With respect to clause 6.6, the contractor is given a right to alter the details of a work program upon given circumstances. This right shall be exercised by the contract as long as the alterations made will not change the general objective of the wok program or add on expenditure. This is also a vital factor because a contractor is able to make changes where something is not efficient or fails to meet intended purpose. This is another attractive aspect of the PSC, which can enhance exploration and attract more investors (Malawi, 2010).

Furthermore, clause 6.7 of the contract also eliminates any restrictions that might hinder attempt to\ protect contractual interests upon emergencies. This clause gives parties the right to take necessary action during extraordinary circumstances or emergencies. This should be done for protection of contractual interests of the parties and employees in question. The costs incurred are to further be added in the petroleum costs. This clause is very good by the fact that it allows protective actions to be taken during emergencies. Some contracts are known to place very strict rules that apply even during emergencies. Exploration and investment will be magnetic to such a contract because these terms reflected in the said clause are attractive (Central Intelligence Agency, 2010).

The clauses reflected above are most likely able to attract exploration and foreign investors by the nature of the wording and terms stipulated therein. From the given clauses and the other mentioned clauses in the contract, it is evident that under a PSC, both the government and companies share the gas and oil output. If they fail to find deposits, the risk is on the concessionaires. Reimbursement however can be effected for both exploration and production costs if the vital reserves are found to be exploited. However, many governments that have used PSC for a while have witnessed some difficulties in calculating the definite revenuer of concessionaires which reflects on the amount of royalties it was entitled to. The weakness of PSC is further manifested in the contract by its costly recovery scheme (Professional Services Contract, 2010).

Today PSC contracts are utilized by many nations in oil and gas companies such as Malaysia, Libya, Russia and Vietnam. The major advantage if embracing a PSC contract is the fact that, the government of Malawi will be able to have control over the gas and oil found in the country. This will further enable the government of Malawi to decide as to whether a particular gas deposit ought to be sold either in the local markets or via exportation. This is very important in guaranteeing them the domestic availability of both oil and gas in Malawi. This type of contract is widely accepted and encouraged by countries like Iraq. Iraq is a major producer of oil and is said to have a petroleum law that requires the utilization of PSC.

Basing on all that has been discussed and pointed out from the contract itself; I would encourage the Malawi Government to adopt the PSC contract. However, I would also ensure that they look at the disadvantages that may accrue from its adaptation, to balance which contract will best suit their needs (PSC is not always the Best Type of Petroleum Contract for Governments, 2008).

Vital Myanmar PSC provisions

Under the given Myanmar provisions, some clauses ought to be placed in whatever contract the government of Malawi might ultimately utilize. Clause 2.2 is very vital in that, it gives the contractors a direct involvement in the exploration operations. This clause makes the contractor the exclusive company allowed to conduct petroleum operations in the given contract area. The contractor is legally allowed to have an economic interest in the general development of the said petroleum. This clause is very essential in any given contract that the government of Malawi may opt to adopt and will thus be prudent to include it in any contract they will choose.

Clause 2.4 is also of great significance by its provision. This clause states to the effect that, MOGE will assist contractors in their work performance by supplying all relevant data as well as information that relates to the contract area. This provision is essential and ought to be including I any contract that the government of Malawi will finally choose. The importance of this clause is that, the contractor is given a right to have access to all relevant information that will be necessary for the exploration activities within the contract (Simbolon, 2010).

Basing on the terms stipulated under clause 3.1, the contract remains effective to both parties until and unless terminated by the terms stipulated therein. This contract remains in effect even during exploitation period, production period and any development period whatsoever. This clause is also important in the contractual agreements that the Malawian government seeks to adopt. This clause therefore gives the stipulate contractual obligations and rights to take effect throughout the mentioned period (Cebu, 2006).

Clause 3.2 further reveals the rightful discretionary right accorded to a contractor to extend exploration period. Although the exploration period has a definite period, a contractor is given an option to extend the period at his own discretion so that he can fulfill his intended obligations and any other business needed in the study. This clause also reveals an important aspect that ought to be included in any kind of contract that the government of Malawi may decide to undertake.

 

Conclusion

In a nutshell, the Myanmar PSC contract reveals a lot of good terms that may be able to facilitate and accommodate more exploration and investments in Malawi. However, the PSC contract evidently has loopholes that need to be addressed to suit the intended needs of the Malawian government in they contract.

People Resourcing

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A person resourcing basically covers on the various modes of approaches utilized by employers in resourcing their respective organizations so as to meet their goals. Resourcing therefore comprises of a set of management activities which bring about success to the four groups of P& D objectives. These objectives include; performance, administration, staffing as well as change management. Staffing objectives `are to the effect that, the organization ought to have sufficient number of staff for the intended good of the organization. In this case, it is vital that an organization retains existing employees, recruit new employees and where necessary dismiss some of the said employees. The performance objectives come into \place after the staffing objectives where the employed personnel are expected to perform their duties effectively so that they can meet the organization’s goals. This be achieved by ensuring that these `employees `are less absent and are well motivated to work accordingly.

When it comes to administrative objectives, we see that the organization management ought to ensure that the existing employment relationship is sufficient. This means that they ought to apply their managerial tactics guided by the laws, natural justice as well as professional ethics. It is thus vital that, P&D policies be written in documents of employment such as job description, contracts and disciplinary warnings. This will in turn develop accepted procedures in the field of management. Under change management objective, there ought to be proper recognition and appreciation or change in a given organization. The resourcing function is thus vital playing the role of an agent who attracts, motivates and retains staff in a given organization.

The Twin Sickness: Absence and staff turnover

1. Staff Turnover

Basing n Ralkes and Vemier, 2004, the key strategy in achieving financial success of an organization is attraction and retaining. When a turnover occurs, an organization is greatly affected in terms of inter alia costs. Turnover affects even humanitarian organizations to which the decrease of performance in relief and aid agencies is evidenced. Retaining staff members can be very challenging, majorly because today the youth have a change of attitude towards work. This consequently makes them have a lower degree in terms of loyalty. The youth today respect knowledge and expertise as opposed to titles, and thus would not have much interest working for an employer who does not give them this challenge. Over the years the turnover rates that have been evidenced have been calculated using the formula as below;

Total number of leavers over period x 100

Average total number employed over period

In computing the rates and main trends, it is vital that the total figure includes all leavers; this also applies to persons who left the organization in question voluntarily, retirement, dismissal and redundancy. The formula further makes no significant distinction between turnover dysfunctional and functional turnover. By virtue of the UK (CIPD 2005b) research, turnover is of recent around 15% and the fact that, the biggest share is consists of the voluntary turnovers. This is contrary to previous assumptions of majority of turnovers being as `a result of termination of contract or even retirement.

Basing on the CIPD (2005b) report, one of the factors that cause turnovers is the attraction of new jobs outside the work force. Furthermore, dissatisfaction is also another reason that leads to turnovers so as to find alternative employment. In the humanitarian sector, it is evident that dissatisfaction with the employing agency has contributed much in resignation. According to Loquercio, 2005, the issues relating to turnovers that are more evident in the humanitarian sector include inter alia, the quality of life. Most employees under humanitarian agencies work in areas that are mostly in conflict and characterized with heavy workload. This hence gives them a limited privacy as well as comfort. Therefore, the employees usually accept such working conditions for a particular amount of time. Furthermore, under humanitarian agencies, the turnover is caused by the aspiration of workers to have a family. This aspiration is incompatible with the reality of the nature of the work they do, which limits them family time. Moreover, Loquercio’s research reveals that, majority of the young adults perceive their engagement with the aid sector to be a limited part o their professional \life. This is majorly because b y the fear of letting their market value suffers from their prolonged absence from their countries of origin.

Having realized the main causes of turnovers in humanitarian organizations, it is vital that such an organization considers the maintenance of employees so that the organization can succeed in its goals. However, when looking at the issue as to whether or not to retain staff, it is important that one looks at the quality o staff in place. Since Hansen’s research (2005) reveals on the fact that voluntary turnover is low, involuntary turnover is much higher today owing to the managerial reluctance in discharging poor performers. A report by Deloitte (2004) reflects on the fact that, people stay put in their jobs due to the economic state that has proved to be very low and thus creating less job opportunities. Organizations ought to find out which profiles, position and skills are considered most vital to them. They should further put effort in the reduction of turnovers in the given categories. The retaining of staff members that have long lost motivation is very detrimental for any given organization. However, it is also evident that the degree of motivation accrues from the management and HR actions of an organization. Organizations therefore ought to increase the engagement of their workers so as to increase productivity and boost the general success of their organization.

Basing on the results accruing from Towers Perrin report, it is vital that employees gain the willpower, passion, sense of mission and pride that will consequently give them motivation in their work performance. Furthermore, workers need to be facilitated with the necessary resources, tools and support from the organization so that they can effectively act on their sense of passion and mission.

In the child care sector related to humanitarian organization, it is evident in the sectorial level that  staff turn over in the said sector causes skill shortages. Despite the fact that the child care sector is expanding, the labor from which to recruit is diminishing. According to Simon et al, 2003, this causes by inter alia, the fact that there exists low pay as` well as low status for the workers. Childcare worker have low academic qualifications and have thus joined child care due to the few carrier options available for them toady. Due to the fact that 99 % of the persons to be recruited are females, the current education system that has made women study more and gain higher qualification makes the child sector less attractive to them. Consequently, these women have higher career expectations and have a wide range of better-paying jobs to choose from. Child care jobs have become less attractive by virtue of their low payments which are less `desirable and thus turnovers in such sectors have become rampant. Furthermore, some researcher like Smith et al., 2004 came to the fact that, the child care work does not easily support with the act of one caring for one’s own children. Conclusively, staff turnover in humanitarian organization has for long been a major=r threat to development. As discussed above, there are many reasons that cause staff turnovers in humanitarian organization, these reasons are can either be general or specific as portrayed in the above discussion.

2. Sickness Absence

According to statistics, thousands of workers each year leave their employments due to injuries or illness. It is also evident that less has been done in the HRM literature in terms of policies `and strategies to which an organization can utilize to reduce such job losses. This working climate exists despite the fact hat; employers are capable of placing arrangements that may enhance the employee’s return to work. The fact that HRM literature has committed such strategies is against the background accruing from policy developments as ell as debates that are for purposes of facilitating the return to work of the sick. The existing Disability Discrimination Act of 1995 gives an employer the obligation to provide reasonable adjustments in supporting the continued employment for workers who become disabled.

The most common cause for employee long-term absence are acute medical conditions, stress, musculoskeletal injuries and mental ill-health. Basing on statistics, approximately 86% of employers often record the cause of absence in their respective organizations. In comparison, the private sector is likely to this 81-84% as compared to the public sector 94%.The man cause of most short-term absence in organizations (a month or less), is minor illnesses for non-manual workers and inter alia musculoskeletal in juries for manual workers. The factors that influence an employee’s absence in an organization includes the fact that older workers may be more reliable, some of the personalities may be more prone to absence than others. Moreover, the culture, work ethics transport difficulties and home commitments may also affect ones absence from work. Fear of being unemployed can however encourages diligent attendance. Conclusively, the other factor that greatly affects humanitarian organizations is absenteeism from workers. As discussed above, this absenteeism may be as a result of sickness or any other factors that have been reflected above.

Remedial Recommendations

1. Staff Turnover

As revealed in the given discussion above, staff turnover has become an issue of concern in organizations today. There is thus a great need to maintain workers in such an environment by management. Distinct managerial approaches towards retention can be employed to humanitarian organizations. It is thus vital that a retention strategy is first designed to find out the reasons why people leave their employment, why they stay and what could consequently make hem stay even longer in their jobs. This has been proven vital basing on the research conducted by Hinkin et al. (2000) who observed that, where it is seen that a significant share of workers stay only for a limited period before leaving their jobs, then this is a symptom of a problem that ought to be addressed.

Organizations ought to create encouragement at greater levels of communication as well as trust between the employers and their employees. This can be accomplished through involving the employees more in the organization band empowering them. The organization can adopt practices such as staff association, self-managed teams, circulation of information, staff surveys and staff association. Furthermore, the human resources practices ought to target creating of skills within the given organization via appraisals, mentoring, training, job performances and review of training needs. The organization can also embrace reward and commitment practices that should be aimed at creating a greater sense of belonging for the employees and consequently commitment to the organization. These practices may include job rotation, flexibility of job descriptions as well as family-friendly policies that have non-pay benefits.

Deloitte (2004) recommends that humanitarian organizations ought to put emphasis on developing, connecting and deploying their employees. The development should be in terms of skills not only through training but also teaching them hoe to find information that could sharpen their skills. This can also be enhanced by coaching and mentoring. The report further explains on the need for deployment. Employees  require lateral experiences which result to growth and have challenges. An organization therefore should encourage greater mobility so that it can be able to inspire a more committed workforce thus promoting greater strategic flexibility. Organizations should have strategies that enable them to stay engaged with alumni because persons who are granted latitude so that they can explore new jobs may often return with new insights and vigor. On the aspect of connection, Deloitte urges organizations to develop rich networks on both internally and externally. This for instance can b e done via informal discussions over a cup of tea or coffee.

Human resource strategy ought to be an integral part of an organization’s strategic and operational plans. It is vital that action be taken at agency level in order to make recognition of the role of HR function as well as integration in strategic planning. Funding is also an issue that needs to be addressed so that poor HR practices are not able to negatively impact on the quality of agencies programs. Agencies in humanitarian sectors get more turnovers and thus ought to train their employees to gain more knowledge and skills. Some of these agencies are more reluctant in investing in staff training due to fear that if the particular employee does not stay with them at the lapse of his untenured, they would have lost their investment. Organizations need to realize the fact that, training is very beneficial if adapted to the needs. Lack of staff ought to be an incentive for them to have even greater likelihood of leaving. This is because such a policy will be perceived `as unfair and also endangering the existing employability of the employees.

CIPD (2005b) further recommends that, organizations should maximize opportunities so that individual employees develop their skills so that they can move to their own careers. Despite the fact that the traditional approach was via career progression as well as advancement, this may not always be possible but employees can accept this if the selection process for promotion is viewed as fair. Another option that the organization can adopt is the redesigning of job descriptions and the promotion of laterally as opposed to vertically. Humanitarian organization should also take steps in offering more possibilities `for staff development as well as training. This can be done through encouraging employees in taking a year off to further their studies in University (Loqurcio)

The adoption and development of the increasing use of advanced IT technology is another way of allowing affordable and much easy contact between field offices in a given organization, and its headquarters. Headquarters can in this way avoid the form o0pf expatriate presence in the field while allowing a more flexible distance management. This can greatly improve the interactions and relations with national staff that can in turn make better use at the local level and longer commitment to the same agency and location by staff members.

2. Sickness Absence

Sickness absence can be managed by humanitarian organizations in various ways depending on whether the sickness is that of short-term absence or long-term. Incase it is short-term, an organization can conduct return-to-work interviews that will consequently trigger modes of reviewing attendance, provision of disciplinary measures for unacceptable absence and supplying sickness absence information to head managers. In case of long-term absence, return to work interviews are carried out, disciplinary methods for unacceptable absence as well as occupational health involvement are often utilized in management of long-term absence.

The punitive approaches in managing absence could b inform of disciplinary sanctions, reduction of pay or docking pay for the period not work for. Furthermore, punitive measures may also include the taking of attendance records into account when deciding on whom to promote. Incentive approaches involve the issuance of lotteries, attendance bonuses; well pay plans, team bonuses and profit sharing. An organization may also take preventive approaches by adopting to work rotation, better supervision  and training, team working, job enrichment, encouraging employee participation, , psychological contract that is based on both confidence and trust, giving employee well-being benefits ,change the cultural way of working for long hours to working towards intensification and improve on employer-employee communication. The above mentioned strategies can be employed in ensuring proper management of absenteeism due to sickness within organizations.

Emergency Operations

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An emergency response plan is crucial for management and avoiding risks in any given city. The capacity of people living in the city has relentlessly increased meaning that the vulnerability to accidents or emergencies has shot up too. There is need to cautiously formulate strategies that respond to unexpected catastrophic events brought by human activities or natural disasters. The strategies will work to protect people, save property and lives in case tragedies occur (Baker, 2008, p.24).

The recent years have seen emergency response plans significantly improved through coordinated efforts of departments involved in emergencies as well as the government (Nudell &Antakol, 1988). This has increased funds and support making preparations swift. Institutions that work in managing emergencies are expected to be alert and ready to respond to emergencies at any time. Amongst the oldest departments involved in managements are the fire departments (Siarnicki & Gist 2010).

The fire departments are well organized and have a heart for protection of human life. Following the enacted fire code enforcements they are able to inspect and note violations which are risky (Ruckriegel, 2011, p.65).They risk their lives through the fierily hot furnace to save human lives. Whenever there are cases that pose as a threat to human life for instance open boreholes and ditches, fire fighters are there to cover up the dangerous holes and protect further threat to life. Their efforts are recognized in every city as they work day and night to ensure safety prevails. Fire departments understand all steps that need to be followed incase of an emergency so as to rescue lives (Nudell &Antakol, 1988). Bearing this in mind makes fire departments worth the opportunity of leading disaster management in the city.

The fire departments are organized in a hierarchical system making it easier to coordinate the sub departments through a chain of command system. The top authority is fire chief who heads the agency, followed by deputy chiefs, battalion chiefs who act as middle men, company chiefs and firefighters who work directly in the fire company (Marsar, 2010). Having such an organization ensures efficacy in delivery of safety services as well as coordination. Responsibilities are evenly distributed making management of crisis a shared responsibility.

Emergencies and accidents are always astonishing they endanger life and make it difficult to live normally again. The fear instilled in individuals can be traumatizing and make the recovery process challenging. However, since a department like fire has dealt with many emergencies they are able to adjust and recuperate well after the emergencies. Departments have also developed therapies that will help in adjustment after dealing with emergencies. I feel that the process of moving from normal operation would do well outside the scope of duties assigned to fire departments (Baker, 2008).It has already been dealt with by fire departments.

Deciding policy and identifying resources largely require s approval from higher authority. Since the decision made will affect the city the government and law have to give a go ahead for the formulated policies. If the policy is found unfit to deal with emergencies or resolve threats it is terminated. Good policies must put the city interests first (Siarnicki & Gist 2010, p.163). Identifying resources requires intervention from donors, activist groups and governments so as to implement suitable strategies as well as buy machines and emergency kits.

Assessing threats is a critical factor since we are dealing with handling emergencies which are a threat to life and property. The extent of threat will give a link to resources required for dealing with it, the people who will be involved amongst other crucial emergency details. Each of the mentioned factors works collaboratively to yield successful results and help manage crisis and emergencies in the city diligently.

Why we should All Be Vegetarians

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Whether someone is vegetarian or not the body requirements for meat related nutrition’s remain constant, vegetarians base their anti-meat diets on varying reasons like its against some religious doctrines, the pain caused to the animal, animal suffering and related diseases that an individual can acquire from consuming meat, digestive cancer that is caused by red meat such as of colon ,pancreas, esophagus , and stomach, fuel the chances of suffering from heart diseases not to mention the fatal risky of red meat been a catalyst of premature dead. Therefore if the meat nutrients can be substituted and have less harm than the harm caused by the meat, we should all be vegetarian.

According to UN Food and Agriculture Organization it takes 2400 liters to produce hamburger, and 7000 liters of water to produce a beefsteak! In contrast to 40 liters of water required to produce a slice of bread therefore meat industry is causing a lot of environmental impacts due to the water consumption. Too animal keeping is substantially contributing to global warming due to the emission of green house gases to the environment.  Five percent of American consider themselves as vegetarian as shown by CNN poll in 2002, this is due to the fact that health related risks reduce drastically such as digestive cancer, stroke and hypertension

Pain caused by human to non human is enough to turn someone to a vegetarian, this can be argued out that plants do not feel pain in contrast to what animals go through in the event of trying to get meat from them,it is a process that involves killing the animal as Singer (1990, P. 235) argues, that “nonhuman animal can feel pain”, and human should refrain from inflicting pain. In consideration of diets the one containing meat based products is not in any comparison better than that of vegetarian as the latter one is lighter and too its cholesterol free, not forgetting that meat contains less amounts of iron compared to beans. But if one is not eating meat products then he/she should take supplements of protein B12

Plant related diets makes somebody live longer, while on the other hand meat products causes clogging of the arteries  where by this gives kidney functions to be strenuous with excess  protein. Accordingly vegetarian diet is pocket friendly, economical and almost anyone can afford to put it on the table as compared to meat related diets

The Rise and Decline of Global Powers

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US has been a dominant world economy for many years but following the rapidly advancing technology the probability of losing its supreme position is not a thought far from reality. After the global recession of 1960 which resulted due to oil crisis there was a marked rise in world prices and increased competition on world economies. This shook the strongest economies at the advantage of oil producing states. Investment, growth and consumption became consequences of the grave economic depression. Having been a dominant state economically and politically in the West, US would have never thought that it would be overthrown by another country as evident in the recent past (Mark, 2010).

Is US economic and political hegemony vulnerable?

            Watson in his works suggests that US economy and hegemony is vulnerable as other global powers are quickly taking up the lead positions. Perhaps the election of Obama may have raised hope for brighter economic days but that was just an illusion in the mind of hopeful citizens. As a new president expectations were high and the hope to fix loopholes in the US economy became elevated (Watson, 2010).

Some aspects that US may have overlooked can be highly attributed to the present financial crisis. The former president Bush for instance was well known for unilateralism unlike Obama who came up with multilateralism. Pursuing financial socialism to rescue private and public finance in was an unprecedented step taken in an attempt to save the US from recession by the former government. This has forced Obama to follow the steps though with a lot of difficulties. The past committed mistakes have led to crisis that may never be easily recovered especially when we talk about US as a supreme state. It is evident that American policies have more than what meets the eye leaving severe effects for the future of America. Foreign governments also hold millions and billions of debts squeezing the US economy. The potential rival of US hegemony China being the one holding a large debt only worsens the situation. The US can therefore not hope to keep China as a subordinate bearing in mind its economic situation (Haore, 2008).

The use of unilateral military power in Iraq led to distortion of its image making it to be labeled as a leading terrorist state. US hegemony is vulnerable as it has to deal with the negative image it has created making other nations view its culture with hostility. The display of violence by US has on the other hand been viewed as projection of its hegemony having brought intervention between Iraq and Afghanistan (Ikenberry 2008).

The economy and political hegemony of the US is vulnerable due to its isolation from European allies and international communities. For US to succeed there is need to employ good relations with other nations as setting itself apart only makes it harder to interact and trade. For it to establish new relations Obama may have to open a whole new chapter something that may need lost trust to be recovered. Relationship building however is something that Obama has openly aimed to achieve. It may not be easy for Obama to solve single handedly all the deep rooted problems so as to avoid US from being overthrown by the new emerging powers. He may try to recover the political and economic hegemony but nature will take course giving credit where best deserved (Watson, 2010).

China becoming a formidable global power

            Being the worlds most populace country only puts China in a position to be better than the other powers. At that rate that this country is technologically advancing US may have to join and if not beat them. Notable to the entire world is the accelerated speed of new invention and innovations taking place in China everyday. It is one of the dominant states manufacturing multibillion dollar electronics and heavy industrial plants. The fact that technical and managerial skills are more needed as compared to labour is to the advantage of this world power. Investment in public work and industrialization has opened many job opportunities for the young generation leading to a rapid growth of the economy.

China has steadily been growing at a rate of 9.5%annually. IT and access to internet is another factor that has made globalization prevalent having its origin in China. China has shown an interest in the middle east which the world s largest oil producing state and Africa. Its military will have an advantage when it comes to challenging US dominance in the pacific. The young population in China is literate, graduating around 60,000 engineers and scientists annually as compared to the US which graduates fewer students. There is also rise in consumer class having the biggest base of cell phone consumers and expecting to be the best in passenger car sales. Being a permanent member of the UN also puts China in which is central if one is to successfully build the universal body and a great power (Ikenberry 2008).

Historical uniqueness implies the ability to retain ones original roots and practice so as to base it for a greater future.

Contrast the different ideological positions regarding the US

Watson in his work seems uncertain about the US power winning the battle for supremacy ahead. He is also says that the fact that US has secluded itself from other nations and prefers to work unilaterally may be a threat to its future as a power. China may be advantaged being a permanent member of the UN as it is safely guarded and has the potential to relate and interact well with other states standing a greater chance. Ikensbury on the other hand is optimistic viewing every opportunity as a chance to make better what is not there.

The fact that US have been a world power for many years will not stop China from taking over. Of importance is the peaceful agreement between the two states as conflict has been used in the past by world powers. Accepting defeat and giving room for the incoming world power should be easier said then done. Viewing the success of another state as an advantage to the world economy is the ideology that should prevail especially as we plan to welcome the new economic world power. China on the other hand should play its game diligently and avoid any intentions that may provoke the US bearing in mind that they still own a lot of money which belongs to the US government (Harman, 2006).

Taking over from US to China should not be something that causes blame and views of inferiority. Obama for instance would have done little if anything to prevent this from taking place due to many internal and external factors that come tied to government’s policies. A change is as good as rest and we should be open for the new power so as to embrace the advantages tied to it.

History Advocacy, policy making process

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Reformation of divorce laws has strengthened marriage by making it difficult to get a divorce. Couples who easily get into marriage will be unable to walk out the same way. They area now faced with a long process that makes them reconsider their urgency to attain a divorce agreement. The strict laws have enabled family to thrive and develop virtues such as perseverance in the society. Activists and lobby groups are emerging daily with an aim to help save the marriage institution. Factors like how divorce affects the family and children gives more reason to address the issue.

In the US for instance divorce is no longer viewed as a pariah. Sociologists have discovered that though divorce is higher in developed countries the developing ones are quickly following the trend (Gregory, Swisher and Wolf, 2005). The inclination by states to establish laws that will sustain marriage longer is now in effect.

Victorian England for instance views marriage as a sacred act which is life long. Those who get married have to bear one another ‘for better or worse’. The society frowns on any factor that tries to encourage divorce. Philippines and Malta are renowned Nations that have banned divorce. The Catholic Church which is wide spread forbids divorce. The Louisiana legislature went ahead to create a new divorce law in 1997 to give couples two options which entail two marriage contracts. One was the no fault divorce and the covenant marriage that allows divorce under fault conditions (Knox and Schacht, 2009). The goal of the fault option is precisely portray to the public positive regard of marriage. Arizona and Arkansas opt for the covenant marriage so as to encourage marriage. There has been a proposal by California that if successful will amend the constitution so as to divorce amongst married (Brown, 2008).

Societal factors influencing divorce, impact, implications

Vast technology advance has to a large extent contributed to increase in divorce cases especially in developed countries. Liberty and championing for equality has led to women empowerment. This as a result has changed societal roles and women are able to do what men once would exclusively do. The men on the other hand feel threatened and are not taking the changes politely (Knox and Schacht, 2009).

Changing times present opportunities for society to advance. Growth of the economy for instance creates room for empowerment and impacts. As a result of this the cost of livelihood tends to rise and opportunities such as education and jobs are open for all. Equality means that we all have capacity to be what we want to be. Women for instance no longer have to wait at home for the man to provide. The high demand of a better life cannot be met by the man alone forcing women to get into professions and careers. Social awareness increases as women form liberation movements. Social norms are interfered with and so are marital relations.

Infidelity has largely caused divorces in the world. The offence was termed so serious such that even religious teachings agree to a couple divorcing if there have been cases of unfaithfulness in the marriage. With the increase of social networking and interactions the problem has gone from bad to worse. The act has been viewed as a societal vice and led to the issue of divorce being debated (Brown, 2008).

Financial problems still are top on the list when we have to deal with family and causes of divorce. Stability of finances does not usually come unless one has a source of income or has taken time to invest. As the man he is expected to meet all household demands and sustain the welfare of his family. Material wealth contributes to the status of a man. Needless to say how will he manage to keep his partner comfortable if he has an empty account/ pocket?  Most women will not put up with continuous neglect of family duties from the head of the family.

Physical and emotional abuse is one of the most callous acts especially when spouses are involved. When getting into the marriage the man vows to love his wife unconditionally. Beating her and inflicting body / emotional harm is not one way of expressing that love. Due to increased rates of stress people especially in the marriage have to develop ways of coping. In some cases small arguments amount to physical abuse which is ground for divorce especially if continuous. Emotional abuse on the other hand has serious consequences as it leads to trauma and mental instability.

Incompatibility is when partners are no longer fit for one another. These may come up as a result of individual and personality trait differences. It includes intellectual, sexual, religious and financial incompatibility (Wylie, 2001). If two people do not agree on basic issues they cannot live harmoniously. It is hard for them to solve conflicts and make progress since they don’t share any common interests.

Poor or lack of communication in the family is a great challenge and threatens marriage institutions. The only way one can express their disappointment, anger and pain is through communication. Discussing issues and letting the other person know what your ideas and plans are helps establish a strong family. If one partner for instance suspects behavior that is questionable they can tell their partner and have that problem solved rather than live on quiet suspicions. Partners who opt to inhibit their feelings suffer quietly and damage their emotions. Their spouses are never able to tell if they have wronged them and may continue with the same offensive behavior unknowingly. This thus contributes to separation.

Marriage age determines if the couple will live together for a long time. Research has evidence that couples who got marry at the age bracket of 23-27 in comparison to those who marry in their teen years, the rate of divorce was higher in the latter age group (Brown, 2008). Children who had experienced divorce were also likely to divorce their partners when they grew up as contrast to those who came from families that did not go through divorce. This may have been attributed to the fact that it is not big deal once you experience it.

Disease and illness has influenced societal decisions on divorce cases. The responsibility of taking care of a sick spouse especially for a long time is burdensome. In a case where one spouse becomes infected with an incurable disease, the life of their partner is put at risk. Instead of waiting to get transmitted with the same disease they opt for separation.

Impact of divorce

Divorce impacts severely on society as it creates voids that only marriage can fill. Parents get separated from their children and no longer are role models. The couples have to deal with a whole number of factors that drain them (Gregory, Swisher, and Wolf 2005).

Emotionally; accepting reality that they no longer have confidants to rely on,

Financially: there is no support for the family left behind, if children are involved,

Socially: some people still blame and find fault in those who have been divorced,

Psychologically: they have to adjust their minds start thinking and behaving as a single parent, Geographically: they face adjustment issues as they have to vacate to new residential areas,

Physically: may have to deal with body harm inflicted by spouse and be on medication (O’Neill and Leo, 2000).These amongst other factors come with divorce making it an unpleasant thought.

Children involved in termination of a marriage spend sleepless nights blaming themselves. Not only are they psychologically traumatized but have to live with the sudden changes of living with single parents.

Case study

Let us examine the case of Kerry, a woman who is unable to have children though married for the last 20 years of marriage. Though there are new adoption laws facilitating adoption of children her husband has refused to adopt a child with her. All her efforts to involve relatives have yielded no fruits. The worst part of it is that her husband now wants to divorce her and marry a younger woman who can bear him a child. This inconsiderate decision has left Kerry destroyed as she no longer considers getting married at her age. The court has found the reason for divorce selfish as Kerry refuses to sign the divorce papers.

The policy states that time to put the divorce in place will be longer. It greatly helps given the situation in this case as Kerry has not committed any offence that should lead to her being divorced.

Activist groups

‘Sisterhood’ is a women activist group that champions for equal divorce rights. It is a movement that aims at achieving success through ensuring that women firmly stand after divorce. They state that it is wrong for a woman to endure a painful marriage (Morgan, 1996).

Men/father right movements have also come up. These mostly aim at custodial duties especially after divorce so as to protect and have access to the children. They can be able to visit them and continue to fund for their fees though separated from their mothers (Mclean, 1999).

My personal view of divorce would be determined by the impact it has on those involved. If divorce brings positive effects to the society I will go for it but if there are some loop holes created it becomes an issue to be considered before accepting it.

Pros and cons

The family is a core unit and from it we have society. The society as a result cannot thrive if we accept divorce to take prevail otherwise how will we live in a fragmented society? Divorce not only disillusions but puts to an end hopes and shatters dreams. Those involved always go through emotional, physical, social and financial problems. It may come as a relief to the spouse who wants justice but they cannot help experiencing the loss of marriage (Herman, 2010).

Divorce to some extent serves as a relief to many people who have endured oppression in marriage. The liberty it gives sounds like letting a caged bird fly away. For most couples it is puts to an end years of physical and emotional abuse. Perhaps marital deaths which occur as a result of physical abuse would have been saved by a simple divorce. When things don’t work out one can walk away.

The family unit needs to be sustained and protected. Harmonious living is the main issue we should aim at. Couples should learn the importance of family and go through premarital counseling to be sure if they want to start a family or not. Things are not getting simpler with the impact of globalization and technology advance. Couples have to mature with the times and decide what the future will be wisely.

Play Therapy

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The interaction between a child and trained therapist with an aim of relieving harbored or distressful feelings in a systematic process defines play therapy. The major tenets of play therapy are relationship (making the child feel accepted) release, (catharsis release is used), recreation (exploration of important events that cause pleasant feelings), re experiencing (linking past events and connecting it with current behavior) and resolving (acting on the understanding of acquired therapy) (Henderson and Thompson, pp 567).

When the Helen a five year old girl walked into the room it was evident that she was in distress and fear. Her shy look indicated that she had gone through cruel upbringing and was never able to recover from the harsh life in her past. The therapist started by letting her sit down then gave her a big do. She does not pick it and stares blankly indicating no connection and interest of play. No indication of sensory and projective play. The lack of attachment shows that she lacks connection to play.

In another case I attempt to establish parent child interaction therapy. This therapy aims at eliminating behavior that is mutinous and aggressive from children. Conduct disorder in this case is rebellion while social learning theory is applicable. The theory mentioned is relevant in that it suggests parenting styles which result to good or bad conduct of the child. The sessions are weekly where I start by counseling parents on the importance of creating time to play with the child while ignoring negative attitudes and focusing on the positive behavior also referred to as a child directed interaction. They promise to set apart every Wednesday afternoon for play with their daughter. On the following sessions I instruct the parents to create and develop compliance rules also referred to as parent directed interaction. The following two weeks mark tremendous results with decline in the rebellious attitude and more compliance to set rules. Besides that I am able to achieve better communication, the child can freely release strong inhibited emotions and a strong relationship is build (Carroll, 2002).