Sunday, December 29, 2019

The Effects of Smoking Bans on Victims of Exposure to...

The Effects of Smoking Bans on Victims of Exposure to Second Hand Smoke Exposure to second hand smoke, which for the purposes of this report will be designated SHS, poses extremely detrimental health risks for any and all individuals who consider themselves non-smokers, especially young children and pregnant women. SHS is estimated to contribute to heart attacks in nonsmokers and causes nearly 53,800 deaths in the United States alone on an annual basis.1 According to the United States Surgeon General’s report from 2010, tobacco use remains the single largest preventable cause of death and disease in this country, causing approximately 443,000 adult deaths from smoking-related illnesses each year.2 Additionally, smoking has been†¦show more content†¦Lung cancer was the most common cancer mortality in men and the second most common in women.6 The study also noted smoking differences in each of the three major language/cultural regions of Switzerland, with the mortality rates higher in the French and Italian speaking regions of the c ountry, reflecting the habits and mortality rates of both France and Italy, where smoking is much more prevalent, and the German region (which is by far the largest) having significantly lower smoking mortality rates, due to Germany’s increased anti-smoking campaigns and laws protecting citizens from SHS.7 Although not as stringent as the US laws forbidding smoking in almost all indoor spaces, Europe’s leading countries are now attempting to curb the use of tobacco products, many for the first time in their histories. All studies have pointed to the extreme dangers SHS provides for pregnant women and children, especially adolescents. In a report published by the Center for Global Tobacco Control, it was demonstrated that efforts to curtail indoor exposure to SHS was working. The results of the study showed that the proportion of US middle and high school students who were exposed to indoor SHS actually declined from 65.5% in 2000 to 40.5% in 2009, with significantS how MoreRelatedSex And Age Disparity Among Teenagers1101 Words   |  5 Pagesand Age Disparity in Teenage Exposure to Secondhand Smoke Anthony Kiprono PH 5302 04/30/2016 Second hand smoke is defined as the combination of smoke emitted by the burning end of cigarette or any other tobacco products and smoke emitted by the smoker. Individuals can be victims of secondhand smoke in various ways and places inkling the safety of being at home, vehicle, workplaces, parks and various public places. According to Jonathan, smoke contains over 200 poisonousRead MoreThe Negative Effects of Smoking1151 Words   |  5 Pagesyou love for the very last time. Smoking is a life-threatening addiction that has brought this tragedy to millions of families at an accelerated pace and not all have been those who do smoke. No one wants to have to deal with tragedy, but nowadays there may be no way to avoid it. Unless, that is, our government intervenes, and puts something into place to end the threat of Secondhand Smoke exposure. I believe the one thing that can be done to avoid this exposure, leading to the unwanted tragedy,Read MoreSmokers in the U.K. and U.S.A. and the Tr eatment of Social Pariahs1773 Words   |  7 Pagesyears, antismoking campaigns has increased due to the harmful effects that are caused by smoking. People smoke not caring about the consequences that it has not only on them, but also on other people. In the U.K and U.S.A, campaign might or might not be effective. This essay seeks to illustrate the cause and effect of antismoking campaigns, T.V advertising, campaigns against smokers not being allowed N.H.S treatment, and the ban of smoking in public places and also illustrating the reasons why similarRead MoreSmoking Is Bad For Your Health749 Words   |  3 PagesSmoking is bad for your health Thesis Statement: Not only is smoking cigarettes bad for the person both short and long term but those around are affected by the secondhand smoke. Summary: With over 300 million smokers around the globe it begs the question how is their choice to smoke cigarettes affecting not only themselves in the short run but also overall. Short term effects include frequent cough, colds, bronchitis, as well as pneumonia. The long-term effects are much grimmer than the short termRead MoreEssay on Contaminated Air: Secondhand Smoke907 Words   |  4 PagesDid you know that you could easily be a victim of breathing toxic fumes and having cancer? As of right now, countless people are being poisoned from the effects of second hand smoking. Many people have heard or seen the effects of smoking and yet they still do it. In this case, it’s not about them but about us. There should be certain areas where smokers can go that won’t affect others because it’s a nuisance and cause unrepairable damage to everyone. Have you ever tried catching your breathRead MoreSmoking Life Away: The Harmful Effects of Smoking Cigarettes1403 Words   |  6 PagesSmoking Life Away Smoke travels far. After the smoke is released, it diffuses and travels in the atmosphere reaching just about anything at a reasonable distance. When one smoker puffs out, it affects that person, somebody across from that person, and the clean air around that person. Ever wonder why warnings and disclaimers are always present with anything that concerns smoking? This is because it is dangerous, and it is harmful , and it should warn you about the lasting impact it leaves youRead MoreEssay on Smoking Risks1748 Words   |  7 Pagesin today’s society is smoking. Yet each year, cigarette smoking kills more Americans than AIDS, alcohol, car accidents, homicides, suicides, illegal drugs and fires combined. Smoking is an extremely bad pastime, practiced for centuries, for an individual’s health and those surrounding him/her. People start for many different reasons and get addicted to the nicotine in cigarettes. Smoking cause many fatal diseases, but help is available to those who seek it. Cigarette smoking is a disgusting and unhealthyRead MoreSmoking in Public Places Essay1923 Words   |  8 PagesWhy Smoking Should be Banned in Public Places. His bald head rests on a pillow. His bones from his cheeks and shoulders protrude under his skin. His mouth is open, but he cannot respond to his mother, wife or three-year-old son anymore. Doctors say there is no hope for Bryan Lee Curtis, a lung cancer victim. He started smoking when he was 13 years old and he never imagined that 20 years later, smoking would take his life away, leaving his wife and child alone. ‘’I can’t fight anymore’’, Bryan saidRead MoreSecondhand Smoke Kills : Should Smoking Be Banned?1798 Words   |  8 PagesSecondhand smoke kills: Should smoking be banned in public? Cigarettes have caused harm to society and the economy for the past twenty years. They’re not causing a harm to just the people who proceed to use them, but to those who are around it as well. Cigarettes have copious effects on active smokers, and even have tremendous long-term effects on nonsmokers. The entryway that causes effects for active smokers is called ‘mainstream smoke’ and what causes effects for nonsmokers is called ‘secondhandRead MoreThe Cost Of Smoking Cigarettes1833 Words   |  8 Pagesare pivotal in generating more than half of the money they earned from exports, $165 million. So, would we be doing more harm than good by banning the smoking of cigarettes? When investigating the true cost of smoking cigarettes there is an overwhelming amount of research into the multiple effects smoking has on health. The smoke inhaled when smoking a cigarette contains 4,000 compounds which often leave toxic traces in the lungs and other organs. This is one of the biggest contributing factors as

Saturday, December 21, 2019

The Church s Responsibility Of Persons With Same Sex...

The Church’s Responsibility to Persons with Same-Sex Attraction â€Å"†¦Finally, Jesus and the woman were there alone. Jesus stood up and asked her, Where is everyone? Isn t there anyone left to accuse you? No sir, the woman answered. Then Jesus told her, I am not going to accuse you either. You may go now, but don t sin anymore.† John 8:5-11 (Contemporary English Version Bible) Unfortunately in the currently society, one of the many terrible situations that is seen is the situation of same-sex attraction. This issue has caused tremendous stress, not only on a part of society that somehow has kept many of the existing moral principles, but this issue has also affected the individuals who were are affected and all those who are around them, either by the shame that this entails, or simply by the ignorance that exists among many who did not want to accept this terrible reality. Now, when is talk about that there is ignorance in this type of situation, it is necessary to take into account that this ignorance came from the type of action that many usually takes when the they know about this issue in certain individuals who are facing this issue, and sadly the first action taken is to judge them, and discriminating against others. However, what is most unfortunately is when this comes directly from the church, which often does not give them any hope of restoration to their issue of same-sexual attraction. Nevertheless, something that is fundamental to understand is about whatShow MoreRelatedBiblical And Contemporary Views Of Marriage And Family1618 Words   |  7 Pagesof marriage and family Introduction In this postmodern society, it is not easy to establish a strong marriage and a strong family. One of the main reasons for this tendency is the changed view of marriage as a companionship grounded on individual s freedom and self-fulfillment rather than as a social institution designed to meet economic needs and provide a place for rearing children. However, as people tend to expect more personal freedom and fulfillment in their marriage, they ironically resultRead MoreThe Debate Over The Right Of Consenting Adults1513 Words   |  7 Pagesthe preservation of this right not only ensures human prosperity through such acts of benevolence, but strengthens the concept of traditional marriage held most by those who oppose the extension of this civil right to our fellow Americans. No one person or government has the authority to prevent a citizen from experiencing a sense of attachment to another in any way. Further, aside from cases of public safety such as restraining orders, no citizen may be limited or controlled in their selection ofRead MoreCovering Information During the Civil Rights Movement1816 Words   |  7 Pagesdown your outsider identity in order to blend into the mainstream. To me the biggest one it relates to is homosexuality and gender identity. Although there has been a tremendous amount of progress over the years with giving the LGBT community the same rights as straight people they still are not considered equal in the eyes of the law and some people. For 17 years homosexuals were not allowed to openly serve in the military due to the â€Å"Don’t Ask, Don’t tell† policy implemented by President ClintonRead MoreA Christian Approach to Homosexuality7265 Words   |  30 PagesHomosexuality 2a. Stories of Sodom and Gibeah 2b. Levitical Texts 3. New Testament on Homosexuality 3a. Paul’s Statements in Romans 3b. Other Pauline Texts II. BIOLOGY AND HOMOSEXUALITY III. LAW AND HOMOSEXUALITY IV. CHURCH AND THE HOMOSEXUAL CONCLUSION BIBLIOGRAPHY 2 INTRODUCTION On 2nd July 2009, in a landmark judgement, the Delhi High Court struckRead MoreThe Views On Gay Marriage3556 Words   |  15 Pagespaper explores the differing views on homosexual same-sex marriages coming from the views of our governments as opposed to religious groups’ views. It goes into detail to see which religions are opposed, which support and which have no official position on the topic of gay marriage. It also takes into account how the state governments have opposed and supported the legalization of same-sex marriage over the course of our history. Keywords: same-sex marriage, homosexuality, religion, government, gayRead More Homosexuality, Nature or Nurture? Essay1911 Words   |  8 Pagesvoices heard; this has attracted the attention of the population making them take notice of their cause. The church has not been able to get away from the powerful political and social pressure of homosexuality. Some churches have accepted homosexuality but many still do not accept homosexuals, saying it is unnatural and not what god intended of man. The church claims that what ever decision has been made, it has been done so on the basis of Christian moral principlesRead MoreWomen s Role During The Twentieth Century1884 Words   |  8 Pageswork different types of jobs other than just staying home doing housework. Also, women held many responsibilities during the westward expansion, such as managing the movement of households overland, establishing social activities in pioneer settlements, and sharing the hard labor of farming new land. Eventually, frontier towns attracted women who worked as laundresses and seamstresses, and organized church societies and other reform movements. In other words, the born of Feminism took place and wasRead MoreChallenges Facing Modern Christians5546 Words   |  23 Pages 2. Scandals in churches B. Sexual immorality 1. Sex before marriage 2. Sex outside of marriage 3. Homosexuality C. Misinterpretation of doctrines 1. Christianity and other religions 2. Creation versus evolution D. Advancement in technology 1. Warfare 2. Abortion 3. Sex change E. Negative influence of the media 1. TelevisionRead MoreRomantic love is a poor basis for marriage.2917 Words   |  12 PagesThe decline of marriage in the West has been extensively researched over the last three decades (Carmichael and Whittaker; de Vaus; Coontz; Beck-Gernshein). Indeed, it was fears that the institution would be further eroded by the legalisation of same sex unions internationally that provided the impetus for the Australian government to amend the Marriage Act (1961). These amendments in 2004 sought to strengthen marriage by explicitly defining, for the first time, marriage as a legal partnership betweenRead MoreSame-Sex Marriage and Religion: An Inappropriate Relationship8330 Words   |  34 PagesSame-Sex Marriage and Religion: An Inappropriate Relationship Brittney Baker Key words, names, terms, concepts: California s Proposition 8, Prop 8; morals legislation; same-sex marriage, gay marriage; religion, religion and politics; separation of church and state; police powers; equal citizenship, equality; 2008 election. Introduction and Thesis The debate over same-sex marriage has been a prominent issue in our society over many years now, appearing in several ballot initiatives such as California

Friday, December 13, 2019

Public Bank Berhad Free Essays

Public Bank Berhad The Public Bank Malaysia was founded in the year 1966. The logo, in modern geometric design, is conceived from two interlocking octagons denoting the domestic and international connections of the Group. The interlocking of the two octagons also suggests security, strength and stability. We will write a custom essay sample on Public Bank Berhad or any similar topic only for you Order Now As per the latest reports Public Bank Malaysia is the largest domestic bank in Malaysia after Malayan Banking Berhad. The Public Bank Malaysia, in terms of its market capitalization, is the largest corporation in Malaysia that is not linked with the Government. The expansion and progress of the Group are symbolised by the edges of the octagons pointing outwards at various directions. Additionally, the graphic formation of the two interlocking octagons also creates an â€Å"eye† of foresight of the organisation. Industry Of Public Bank Berhad Public Bank Berhad is an industry leader in hire purchase financing, home mortgage financing and commercial lending to SMEs in Malaysia. The bank has a strong distribution network comprising 248 full service branches in Malaysia and 109 overseas in Hong Kong, China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Sri Lanka. Public Bank Product Range Of Public Bank Berhad Public Bank Berhad in one of the leading providers of integrated financial services in Malaysia. It primarily focuses on providing banking and financial services. The bank is engaged in offering various financial products and services, which includes investment banking, commercial banking, wealth management products, and Islamic banking services. Target Market Of Public Bank Berhad The whole Malaysian, Hong Kong, China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Sri Lanka. Aimed at providing customized banking services and products to individual customers in addition to small business concerns. Consumer Groups The core business areas of the Public Bank Group are consumer and retail commercial loans. Individuals and families can find a range of lending solutions to buy residential unit, vehicle or a consumer good. The bank offers home loan, car loan, passenger vehicle hire purchase financing and personal loan at easy terms and conditions. The small and medium sized enterprises, too, can find simplified procedure here to apply for a commercial loan. Position of The Company In Relation To Other Competitors Public Bank Berhad operates in the Commercial banks sector. This analysis compares Public Bank Berhad with three other companies: Malayan Banking Berhad (2011 sales of 18. 28 billion Malaysian Ringgits [US$5. 85 billion] of which 25% was Consumer Banking), Cimb Group Holdings Berhad (2010 sales: 16. 06 billion Malaysian Ringgits [US$5. 14 billion] of which 19% was Foreign Banking Ope), and AMMB Holdings Berhad (2011 sales of 5. 83 billion Malaysian Ringgits [US$1. 87 billion] of which 46% was Retail Banking). Company| Sales(blns)| P/E| P/B| Mkt Cap(RMm)| Revenue(RM’000,000)| Public Bank Berhad| 10. 345| 13. 1| 3. 10| 45,067. 8| 10,523| Malayan Banking Berhad| 18. 278| 13. 0| 1. 90| 62,592. 67| 18,397| Cimb Group Holdings Berhad| 16. 059| 13. 5| 2. 07| 55,597. 16| 16,635| AMMB Holdings Berhad| 5. 831| 12. 2| 1. 69| 17,904. 26| 6,343| Market Capital Revenue Ratio For Public Bank | 2008| 2009| 2010| Current ratio| 120,700,000,000/34,789,000,000=3. 47| 137,600,000,000/41,835,000,000=3. 29| 156,500,000,000/45,911,000,000=3. 41| Quick ratio| 60,656,000,000/34,789,000,000=1. 97| 67,986,000,000/41,835,000,000=1. 63| 59,269,000,000/45,911,000,000=1. 29| Average age of inventory | Impossible since PBB is not involved in trading. No inventories| Impossible since PBB is not involved in trading. No inventories| Impossible since PBB is not involved in trading. No inventories| Average Collection Period| Impossible since PBB is not involved in trading. No sales hence no receivables| Impossible since PBB is not involved in trading. No sales hence no receivables| Impossible since PBB is not involved in trading. No sales hence no receivables| Average payment period| Impossible since PBB is not involved in trading. No purchases| Impossible since PBB is not involved in trading. No purchases| Impossible since PBB is not involved in trading. No purchases| Total asset turnover| 10,500,307,000/196,163,106,000=0. 054| 9,715,568,000/271,136,154,000=0. 045| 11,035,597,000/226,328,976,000=0. 049| Debt ratio| (185,934,374,000/196,163,106,000)x100=94. 79%| (205,420,830,000/217,136,154,000)x100=94. 60%| (212,643,888,000/226,328,976,000)x100=93. 96%| Time interest earned| 18,790,015,000/4,562,396,000=4. 12x| 17,068,609,000/3,316,609,000=5. 15x| 19,149,128,000/3,516,111,000=5. 45x| Gross profit margin| (3,948,155,000/10,500,307,000)x100=37. 60%| (4,015,055,000/9,715,568,000)x100=41. 33%| (4,738,265,000/11,035,597,000)x100=42. 4%| Net profit margin| (2,622,660,000/10,500,307,000)x100=24. 98%| (2,551,540,000/9,715,568,000)x100=26. 26%| (3,099,077,000/11,035,597,000)x100=28. 08%| ROA| (2,622,660,000/196,163,106,000)x100=1. 34%| (2,551,540,000/217,136,154,000)x100=1. 18%| (3,099,077,000/226,328,976,000)x100=1. 37%| ROE| (2,622,660,000/10,228,732,000)x100=25. 64%| (2,551,540,000/11,715,324,000)x100=21. 78%| (3,099,077,000/13,685,088,000 )x100=22. 65%| Analysis Of Public Bank Performance Liquidity Ratio Current Ratio = Current assets/current liabilities 2008| 2009| 2010| 120,700,000,000/ 34,789,000,000 =3. 7| 137,600,000,000/ 41,835,000,000 =3. 29| 156,500,000,000/ 45,911,000,000 =3. 41| The ratio is mainly used to measure the company’s ability to pay back  its short-term liabilities with its short-term assets. As we seen the company current ratio for these 3 years, there are decreases from year 2008 to year 2009 but they increase back when come to year 2010. These 3 years current ratio is significant higher than the acceptable ratio. The acceptable ratio is 2:1 but for the public bank, the current ratio are (2008 1 : 3. 47, 2009 1 : 3. 29, 2010 1 : 3. 41). These shows that the Public Bank is not using its resources as efficiently as it could be. Public Bank should reduce its current assets so there are no excessive current assets. Quick Ratio = (current assets-inventories)/current liabilities 2008| 2009| 2010| 60,656,000,000/ 34,789,000,000 =1. 97| 67,986,000,000/ 41,835,000,000 =1. 63| 59,269,000,000/ 45,911,000,000 =1. 29| Quick ratio  measures  a company’s ability to meet  its short-term obligations with  its most liquid assets. The higher the quick ratio,  the  better the position of the  company. From the company 3 years quick ratio, the quick ratio are (2008 1 : 1. 7, 2009 1 : 1. 63, 2010 1 : 1. 29) These shows that the company quick ratio is slightly higher than the acceptable ratio that are 1:1. But the quick ratio for the company are getting better year to year. The company should reduce its current account to reach the desirable ratio that are 1:1. Activity Ratio Average age of inventory =(Average invento ries/Cost of sales)x365 2008| 2009| 2010| N/A| N/A| N/A| Impossible to compute since Public Bank Berhad is not involved in trading. No physical inventories are involved. Average collection period = (receivables/sales) x365 2008| 2009| 2010| N/A| N/A| N/A| Impossible to compute since Public Bank Berhad is not involved in trading. No physical inventories are involved. Average payment period =(Payable/Cost of sales)x365 2008| 2009| 2010| N/A| N/A| N/A| Impossible to compute since Public Bank Berhad is not involved in trading. No physical purchases are involved. Total assets turn over= Operating revenue/total assets 2008| 2009| 2010| 10,500,307,000/196,163,106,000 =0. 054| 9,715,568,000/271,136,154,000 =0. 045| 11,035,597,000/226,328,976,000 =0. 049| Asset turnover  measures  a firm’s efficiency at using its assets in generating sales. The total assets turnover over for the 3 years, there are decrease in year 2009 but increases in year 2010. For each RM1 of assets for the year 2008, Public Bank only manage to generate RM0. 054 of sales. For the year 2009 and 2010, for each RM1 of the assets, Public Bank only generates RM0. 045 and RM0. 049 of sales. The amount are worsen but there are increases for year 2010. This is because the company have higher profit margin, so they would have lower assets turnover. Financial Ratio Debt ratio=(Total liabilities/Total asset)x100% 2008| 2009| 2010| (185,934,374,000/196,163,106,000)x100=94. 9%| (205,420,830,000/217,136,154,000)x100=94. 60%| (212,643,888,000/226,328,976,000)x100=93. 96%| A ratio that indicates what proportion of debt a company has relative to its assets. The measure gives an idea to the leverage of the company along with the potential risks the company faces in terms of its debt-load. Time Interest Earned Ratio=EBIT/Interest 2008| 2009| 2010| 18,790,015,000/4,562, 396,000=4. 12x| 17,068,609,000/3,316,609,000=5. 15x| 19,149,128,000/3,516,111,000=5. 45x| Ensuring interest payments to debt holders and preventing bankruptcy depends mainly on a company’s ability to sustain earnings. However, a high ratio can indicate that a company has an undesirable lack of debt or is paying down too much debt with earnings that could be used for other projects. The rationale is that a company would yield greater returns by investing its earnings into other projects and borrowing at a lower cost of capital than what it is currently paying to meet its debt obligations. Analysis : The company have a high time interest earned ratio in this few year and the ratio keep increase. This suggests that this company is less burdened by debt expense and the company has no problem in settling its interest expenses in the future. Profitability Ratio Gross Profit Margin=Gross profit margin/Net sales 2008| 2009| 2010| (3,948,155,000/10,500,307,000)x100=37. 60%| (4,015,055,000/9,715,568,000)x100=41. 33%| (4,738,265,000/11,035,597,000)x100=42. 94%| The gross margin is not an exact estimate of the company’s pricing strategy but it does give a good indication of financial health. Without an adequate gross margin, a company will be unable to pay its operating and other expenses and build for the future. Net Profit Margin=(Earning to common stockholders/sales)x100% 2008| 2009| 2010| (2,622,660,000/10,500,307,000)x100=24. 98%| (2,551,540,000/9,715,568,000)x100=26. 6%| (3,099,077,000/11,035,597,000)x100=28. 08%| Net profit margin is the ratio of net profit to revenues a company’s pricing strategy and operating efficiency. Return On Assets=(Earning to common stockholders/total assets)x100% 2008| 2009| 2010| (2,622,660,000/196,163,106,000)x100=1. 34%| (2,551,540,000/217,136,154,000)x100=1. 18%| (3,099,077,0 00/226,328,976,000)x100=1. 37%| Return on assets is an indicator of how profitable a company is relative to its total asset, the ratio measures how efficient management is at using its assets to generate earning. Return On Equity=(Earning to common stockholders/total equity)x100% 2008| 2009| 2010| 2,622,660,000/10,228,732,000)x100=25. 64%| (2,551,540,000/11,715,324,000)x100=21. 78%| (3,099,077,000/13,685,088,000)x100=22. 65%| Return on equity  measures a corporation’s profitability  by revealing how much  profit a company generates  with the  money  shareholders have invested. Analysis : Public Bank Berhad have a very high net profit margin and the profit increase from 24. 98% in year 2008 to 26. 26% in year 2009. When in year 2010, it rise to 28. 08% again. It’s mean this company generate 24. 98% in year 2008, 26. 26% in year 2009 and 28. 08% in year 2010 for every RM100 sales. Furthermore, the return on assets are in the high rate. In the year 2008, the ROA is 1. 34% and it decreased to 1. 18% in the year 2009. However, in year 2010 the ROA increases to 1. 37%. It’s because of Public Bank has expanded its self –service channels such as Automated Teller Machines, Cheque Deposit Machines and Cash Deposit Terminals to 1,400 machines to serve its large customer base. The ROE for this company in year 2008 is 25. 64%. However it drops to 21. 78% in the year 2009. The ROE increases again in the year 2010 to 22. 65%. It’s mean this company is more capable of generating cash internally. For the example, Public Bank Berhad is able to pay its shareholders the return he interest of 25. 64% in the year 2008. Conclusion The Overall of our research about Public Bank Berhad have a very good performance. The Public Bank group should seek to tap all growth opportunities arising from the improving economic and business environment, with the aim of delivering superior shareholder value over the long-term. Reta il consumer and commercial banking should remain the core focus of the Group. In consumer financing, the group should continue to promote home mortgages, passenger vehicle hire purchase financing and personal financing. Recommendation Overall all our research about Public Bank Berhad and its competitors, Public Bank Berhad was performance very well in this 3 years. Especially when come to the year 2010, the profit before tax increases by 23. 0%. The Group’s gross loans, advances and financing recorded strong growth of 13. 8% in 2010, with the Group’s domestic lending business growing 15. 6% during the year. However, Gross impaired loans ratio drop by 0. 03%. The financial pandemic in late 2008 and 2009 that threatened to push the global economy into a deep recession was largely contained through the concerted efforts of the world’s major government and central banks. How to cite Public Bank Berhad, Essay examples

Thursday, December 5, 2019

A Review of Exploring the Therapeutic free essay sample

The article explores the concept of incorporating spiritual practices in the clinical practice of counseling. One of the primary elements the article wishes professional counselors to consider is the idea that the values and practices of religious clients deserve the same level of respect and sensitivity as any other ethno-cultural aspect of a clients life (Eck 266). In order to accomplish this, the author identifies the ethical, cultural, and professional practice parameters that all counselors should onsider. Eck points out that many professionals receive training to better assist clients from diverse ethnic backgrounds, but very few incorporate any spiritual framework within sessions with a religious client. The research he analyzed indicates that between fifty and ninety percent of clients seen highly value their spiritual orientation, yet it seems that many counselors prefer to leave spirituality out of the sessions. There are several reasons he believes this may happen, but advocates strongly that proper training with regard to incorporating religious practices in the ounseling session would help counselor competence in the area and provide a better tramework tor assisting religious clients He also recommends proper assessment to determine if spiritual interventions would even benefit the client. We will write a custom essay sample on A Review of Exploring the Therapeutic or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page In addition to discussing religious practices with the client, he also suggests the utilization of standardized measures. In addition to taking an assessment of the clients spirituality, the article recommends that professionals be aware of their own level of spirituality and how those beliefs may affect any interaction with a client. There are many ways to incorporate spiritual interventions into practice, but deciding on the best practice depends on the client and on the therapists level of training. On the whole, spiritual intervention is a method that helps the client live the life their religion advocates when the client is unable to do so alone. The article does suggest more research needs to be done to help build better model of therapeutic practices, but indicated many therapists would benefit with simply training more thoroughly with the knowledge we already have. Reflection I was interested in analyzing this particular article because I have always been urious as to why spirituality and modern medicine seem to be mutually exclusive. I especially appreciated how Eck distinguished between the clients level spirituality and that of the therapist. Much like any other ethno-cultural aspect, a clients religion should be incorporated into therapy if it is warranted despite the therapists personal viewpoints. According to APA, religion is recognized under the code of ethics, but many therapists seem to leave the spirituality aspect of their clients lives to religious leaders in their clients lives. Since so many people highly value the spiritual omponent in their lives, it seems that a therapist is doing the client a disservice by not incorporating this aspect into their sessions. Another interesting aspect he presented in the article is the difference between implicit and explicit interventions. A therapist needs to be able to properly assess their own inclinations and beliefs in order to make sure the session is compatible with the needs of the client. This can be especially beneficial to the client when the therapist is trained to determine what avenue to take in assisting the client. There were several works that Eck referred to as being essential resources for the linician seeking to develop ethno-religious competency (Eck 267). The most recent work is listed as Richards and Bergins (2000) Handbook of Psychotherapy and Religious Diversity. In addition to reading this one, I would like to find a copy of Millers (1999) Integrating Spirituality into Treatment. I think these texts will provide more information on current models of treatment that incorporate spirituality into therapy sessions while also serving to enhance my understanding of religious practices that differ from my own. Application The information from this article can be easily applied to virtually any counseling etting. First and foremost I would make sure that I was aware of my own spiritual identity and any prejudices I might harbor about differing practices. Additionally, I would want to make sure I had a basic understanding of the major religions and a competent mentor that I could turn to if the occasion presented itself. I would begin by asking the client open ended questions about their religious views and practices to help determine whether spiritual intervention is appropriate. I would make sure to help the client feel comfortable talking about their religion in addition to all the other spects of their lives. I would also make doubly sure to refrain from talking to them about my preterences so there are no unintended teelings ot religious coercion. My next step would be to assess the level of the clients spirituality with standardized measures along with any other assessment appropriate for their concerns. If a spiritual intervention is warranted, I would find the appropriate spiritual discipline to address the clients condition. Eck has identified thirty-nine different spiritual disciplines from various authors that address common themes in therapy. Ultimately hat means identifying the religious ideal and discovering what is preventing the client from reaching that goal. In doing so, I can help the client move past these barriers and help them build a life more congruent with their faith. I would also encourage the client to be open with their religious leader about their struggles and progress as that can have a very positive affect for highly religious individuals.

Thursday, November 28, 2019

Shell Company Oil Spills in Nigeria free essay sample

Shell Company believes that oil and gas will remain an important aspect of economic and development of the world for many eras. They seek to maintain high standards of performance and to conserve long-term relations with the environment in which they operate . The Shell Company is one of the major providers of energy and petroleum in the world. Its operation started almost 200 hundred years ago in a small shop where they were selling antiques and see shell and now Shell company is one of the largest firms which provides energy and petroleum services. According to Shell Global (n. d. ) the headquarter of Shell Company is situated in Hague of Netherlands and the parent company of Shell is situated in England and Wales and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Shell Company is Mr. Peter Voser. Shell Company branches are located in 130 countries and has employed more than 93 thousand employee globally. In Nigeria, Shell Company is involved in Niger Delta to produce onshore oil and gas. We will write a custom essay sample on Shell Company Oil Spills in Nigeria or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page This Company also produces offshore oil and gas in Gulf of Guinea and operates the first ever deep-water project of Nigeria. According to Shell Global (n. d. ) one of the largest branches of Shell Company is Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) in Nigeria which has joint venture with Nigerian Government’s Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). The ratios are divided in a method of 55% to Nigerian Government, 30% to Shell Company, 10% to ELF Petroleum Nigeria Ltd and 5% to AGIP. The operation of SPDC in Nigeria has added $38 billion to the Nigerian Government in the past five years (2007-2011) together with the taxes and royalty payments. The Nigerian Government receives 95% of its profit from SPDC onshore oil and gas production in Niger Delta. In relation to Shell Company’s relation following are some key aspects. 1. 1. 1 Ethical Standards and Code of Conduct: The outlay of Shell Company’s ethical standards and issues are noted under the Company’s ethical code of conduct. The Shell Company employees cannot make decision which can involve conflict of interest. It is written in code of ethics that the employees of Shell Company cannot receive gifts or payments from the contractors or other involved parties with Shell Company. The employees should behave fairly with the customers and should understand the nature of their diverse work and should never discriminate. The employees of Shell Company cannot take part in financial interest activities. They are strictly forbidden to interact with the contractors because they might transfer confidential information in times of bidding to the contractor. The Shell Company employees are required to maintain highest standards of honesty and integrity at work. 1. 1. 2 Social Investments: Shell Company supports the community both directly in community development projects and indirectly through Shell independent foundation. The company aim is to understand the needs of local communities and to address the local community’s social and economic needs which is access to energy, there business development etc. Shell Company’s staff voluntarily contributes on different social and environmental projects around the world. The programs offered by Shell Company aims to support the young people so that they can set up their own business. Shell Company expended about 13 billion dollars to the poor people with lower income on different humanitarian services. Maximum number of Shell Company employee in Nigeria is local Nigerian which is a good indication of job creation for the Nigerian citizens. 1. 1. 3 Environmental Contributions and Responsibilities: Shell Company works to avoid any sort of hazardous, this means that they strives to operate safely and according to the community inspection and maintenance. SPDC is dedicated and loyal in cleaning of the oil spills in the Niger Delta. In the last five year (2008-2012) under a quarter of the oil spillage from SPDC was because of the operational causes such as human error or machinery miscarriage and for this operational spill Shell company has compensated people who has suffered. 1. 1. 4 Economic Involvement: The local Nigerian communities is being benefited in a wide ranged through the finances and supports of Shell Company and mean while the company pays a great portion of taxes and royalties to the Nigerian Government. The Nigerian Government have earned about $38 billion form the taxes and royalties since 2007-2011 from Shell Company and this is a major contribution for the Nigerian Government in monetary terms. The Nigerian Government can use the funds in development sector, to increase the economic stability and to reduce the the poverty in the community. Adding to this Shell Company has donated $76. 3 million to Nigerian Government to enhance the community development projects, enhance skills training, agriculture and to support health care and small businesses. In 2010 local Nigerian companies have earned approximately $947 million contracting number of awards with Shell Company. 1. 2 Background of the Study: For those who lives in third world country it is really disturbing to acknowledge and understand that the whole country is organized to serve a small group of people. The Nigerian Government is ignoring all the oil spill and pollutions harmed by Shell Company. The Shell Company does not have any way to estimate the amount of oil spills in Nigeria. Shell Company power has influenced the Government of Nigeria and it’s people which has increase the hatred perception of people affected from the oil spills towards Shell Company and the Government because the people do not get anything from the revenue given by the Shell Company while on the other they are being affected through the destruction of their land, agriculture and other sources. The Government of Nigeria should compel Shell Company to commit the payment compensation of all the affected people in Nigeria. 1. 3 Objectives: 1. To provide Shell Company Introduction, its operation in Niger Delta, its ethical issues and social responsibilities. 2. To provide concerns of different Stakeholders in Shell Oil Spillage as a wicked problem. 3. To provide literature sources and references of theories regarding the Shell Company’s oil spills in Niger Delta. 4. To illustrate the stakeholders (Investors, CEO and local Nigerian employee) responses to the oil spills in Niger Delta. 5. To create productive understating for the stakeholders about the oil spills of Shell Company. Chapter 2 2. Wicked Problem and Stakeholders Sense Making Process: Wicked problem is a social or cultural problem which is very difficult or impossible to solve. In wicked situation the problem is not clearly defined due to which it is impossible to make solution for the problem. According to (Ezigbo, O. Bassey, O. , 2010) The Shell Oil Spills in Nigeria is also said to be a wicked problem because media is spreading news that the Government is not taking any action against the Shell Company because the Government is influenced by the power and revenues given by Shell Company. This also increases the hatred perception of the people towards the Shell Company. Another major problem is that the people affected by the oil spill are concerned and curious that whether they will receive the compensation against the disaster happened in their lands and agricultures or will Shell Company clean the places affected by the oil spills. The People is also curious to know that even if the oil spills are cleaned by the Shell company the effects of oil spills will remain there for several years. In order to solve this wicked problem multiple approaches should be used. Conklin, E. and Weil, W. (1997) states that â€Å"There are many stakeholders-people who care about or have something at stake in how the problem is resolved†. Following are the explanations to this wicked problem in respect of the three stakeholders of the Shell Oil Company. 1. The Shell Investors Viewpoint 2. The CEO Viewpoint 3. The Local Nigerian Shell Company Employee Viewpoint 2. 1. 1 The Shell Investors Viewpoint: The Investors in Shell Company being caught up in such a disaster situation of oil spills is a great concern. The Investors will be more concerned about their investments in the Nigeria due to which they would not be able to see what the situation is in community and if the investors does not take this substantial seriously and does not approach the problem correctly it will be a great loss both in short term and long term. The investors can take social responsibility approach by cleaning the environment from the oil spills disaster which will help the investors in long term by securing their investments. The benefit of cleaning effort is that it will establish good reputation of the organization and it will be a good investment for the investors because it will enhance the credibility and can lead the organization to better position within the industry. The investors can agree to the terms of Government and accept the compensation payment this will enhance the company’s image among the people of Nigeria. 2. 1. 2 The CEO Viewpoint: Leading the organization and controlling such wicked problem in a company requires serious and demanding leadership and the CEO should give full attention to this needs and concern of the company. The CEO can use sense-making and can involve other parties in order to find possible solution for solving the problem. The CEO should deeply measure the situation and the needs and anxiety of stakeholders associated with the situation. If the CEO applies resilient questioning the can find a common ground where all the associated parties with the problem will be considered. If the Shell Company takes the lead, accept its environmental responsibility and start the cleaning effort, it will benefit both the company image and credibility among the society and also while doing the cleaning effort they will hire employee from the local community which will indirectly benefit the local economy. The CEO can make a promise to public that the company will add new technologies and machineries in the company and can instruct the operational management to quickly handle this disaster. This action will give the stakeholders an image that the company is considering the rules and regulations of the Government as well as they care for the public. It will reassure the Shell Company image among Nigerian Government considerably that Shell Company is taking into consideration the ethics and operational standards of Nigeria. If the CEO approaches this way it will compel the investors to think that the company is going on the right way and if the company achieves this approach the company will attain the public acclaims and praises which will benefit Shell Company in long term as the public will assume that even in time of disaster Shell Company is fulfilling their responsibilities and is caring for the Nigerian Government and Public. The Local Nigerian Shell Company Employee Viewpoint: For local Nigerian Shell employee this issue will be very difficult because the employee will not be able to make decision regarding whether he/she should take the organization side or the Nigerian Government and Nigerian public side. The employee reaches to state where on one side the public and Government will develop thoughts the employee is working against the community they are harming the local community and destroying the environment through exerting oil spill pollutions and on the other side the employee should work in order to compensate the needs of their family members, their living costs and by working in such a Global organization the employee can earn more and can easily fulfill the needs of family members. In Such situation the employees cannot make decision regarding the company because the employee themselves tries hard to hide their identity because everyone is pointing finger on the company they works which may result to conflict between the employee and community members. The employee cannot decide to be on which side because such situation can affect the employee’s loyalty as well as can develop questions on the ethical and moral standards of the corporation. If the organization makes a social responsible response such as starting the cleaning effort so in that situation the employee will get encouraged and will take the responsibility to work both in company and will also take active part in the social context which will be a great approach for solving this wicked problem. If the organization does not consider the social responsible response then it will affect the employee’s loyalty and ethical standard and will produce a state in which the employee is forced to choose one among the company and the public. 2. 2 Literature Reviews and Sources: Decision Making: Brook (2009) states that â€Å"Poor decision making is often the result of short-term target setting, which is a particular feature of the decision processes of chief executives who are on fixed-term contracts†. In week seven I have learned different approaches of decision making process and the approach that I think the CEO should use is ‘bounded rationality decision’ because in bounded rationality the CEO will make the decision that the CEO first come across which is the CEO should compensate the people affected by the spillage and to clean the oil spillage. The CEO should use ‘bounded rationality decision’ because on one side the CEO have limited information about the problem that what the stakeholders will if the CEO do not compensate them or do not clean the oil spillage and on the other side the CEO has finite time to make decision. Donaldson, T. Preston, L. E. (1995) defines that in a survey it was found that 80% of the senior manager were not working to according to ethical code of the organization because the managers, employees and customers were thinking that they are not being valued by the organization instead the organization was giving values only the shareholders. If the organization do favoritism in decision making process it will harm the organization in long term because after the decision is made the employee will not implement the decision which will decrease the organizational productivity. If the organization involves all the stakeholders in decision making then after the decision is made everyone will agree to the decision will favorably implement the decision. 2. 2. 2 Shell Oil Spill a Wicked Problem: Shell Company oil spills are clear indicator of wicked problem and as we have studied in past weeks regarding wicked problems there is no true solution because the problem is not definitive. In order to solve the wicked problem a leader should first understand the problem that what is the problem and to understand the problem the leader should analyze and gather data regarding the problem. When the leader gathered data then he/she will implement that data in order to solve the problem. The shell company wicked problem solving involves following process. 1. Data Gathering: The CEO should gather data regarding the oil spillage the stakeholders associated with oil spills so that the CEO can find a solution. 2. Data Analysis: When the CEO gathered data regarding the oil spillage and associated stakeholders the CEO should analyze the data and form multiple solutions for this wicked problem. 3. Implementation of Solution: The CEO should consider and implement the best solution regarding the wicked problem. The CEO should consider the approach step by step. The CEO should not implement the gather data regarding the oil spillage without analyzing the data. The CEO should find solution and implement that solution which will not be effective. For a wicked problem there is no clean solution because the bases of such problem are not defined and that is why every wicked problem is managed differently. 2. 2. 3 The Associated Stakeholders: Stakeholders are people who have some sort of interest in the project or company. The primary stakeholders of the company are the investors (Shareholders), the employees, the company customers and suppliers while the secondary stakeholder’s are those who are associated with the company in one way or the other. The Stakeholders can affect the organization as well as can be affected by the organization actions. In case of Shell oil company the identified stake holders are the investors, local employees, CEO, the Nigerian Government and the community’s members who are affected from the oil spills. It is really important that while making decision the CEO should consider all the different stakeholder of the organization. The CEO should make sure that when the decision is made it should involve all the associated stakeholders. 2. 2. 4 Primary and Secondary Stakeholder Perspectives: In case of investors they should decrease the efforts of the charges on the company and should pay the compensation of $20 billion to the affected community members and Nigerian Government. In case of local Nigerian employee they want that all the charges regarding the oil spills gets solved so that they can state freely with no fear among the community that they are working with Shell Company because now they are also affected with this oil spill, the community members threat them badly because they think that these employees is also involved in the oil spillage process. In case of CEO, he/she should make a decision that should favor everyone an as per the case study the best decision to pay the compensation and clean the areas affected by the oil spillage. In case the Nigerian Government, they want to compel Shell Company to compensate the remedies of the oil spills. In case the community members; they want the affected area clean from oil spillage. They also want to be compensated for oil spillage because they consider that even if the affected area is cleaned by the Shell Company still for few years the oil spillage will have effect on the environment. Chapter 3 3. 1 Contrast between Various Leadership Styles: Throughout this module we have studied different types of leadership styles and approaches in relation to resolve wicked problem. This project will define the following three Leadership types. 1. Charismatic Leadership 2. Transactional Leadership 3. Transformational Leadership 3. 2 Charismatic Leadership: Charismatic Leadership is one of the best ways to boost and motivate the employees in order to achieve the organizational goals. Charismatic leaders use their charms to handle and solve a problem. They have strong influence over the followers though which the can make the followers accomplish the given task. Charismatic leaders energize the environment and inspire the followers to give their best while performing an action. Charismatic leaders enhance the moral of the employees and decrease the anxiety of the employee in wicked situation. In many organizations it is observed that during difficult situation the employee moral gets down so is the case with Shell Company oil Spills. The employee’s moral is depressed since they are in position where the community feels that they are working with a company which is harming the environment by exerting pollution in the society. The Community threats them and their family members gravely. In such case the employees can get offended from the situation and can damage the organization. The CEO should use charismatic leadership and should make the employees understand the oil spillage situation that it is not done intentionally by the company. The CEO should make employees realize that the company feeling regretful for the happened situation and the company will attempt hard to solve this wicked problem. This way the employees moral will get motivated and boosted and they will strive in resolving the situation. 3. 3 Transactional Leadership: Transactional leaders set goals and objectives for the organization and require the followers to attain the goal and objectives with in the specified time. If the employee achieves the goals and objective they get reward otherwise they are punished by the leaders in order to remain in compliance with the goals. In this leadership style the relationship between leader and manger is more of give and take which is if the employee achieve something he/she will receive something in return of it. The leaders closely monitors and controls the work of their followers that whether they are going on the right path or whether they are working in accordance to the plan given on not. In case of Shell Company oil spillage the CEO can sit objectives to employees that the employees should spread good image of the Shell Company among the community by informing the community that Shell Company will fulfill it social responsibility of cleaning the oil spill and is also committed to do the compensation payment to those who are affected by this oil spills. This way the employee will receive appreciation from the Shell Company and Shell Company will sustain its good image among the community by fulfilling the ethical standards of the community. Transformational Leadership: Transformational leaders are those who changes and transforms individuals. Transformational leadership is the skill to make the followers accept a changed and make them recover from a given situation. Transformational leadership can increases the organizations productivity and can result in organizational success because in this leadership styles the leaders give values to it followers. Transformational leaders are enthusiastic and passionate for the work they and is also concerned for others in helping them to perform well. Transformational leadership highlights that leaders should consider individualized needs and should support the individuals. The transformational leaders create vision and inspire the individuals to achieve the vision. The transformational leaders engage there followers in a way so that they get committed and the follower also become a leader in future. In case of Shell Company the employees are really discouraged because of their association with the company which has harmed the environment. The CEO can use transformational leadership and can energize the employees by making them participate in cleaning of the oil spills in one way or other. The CEO should require the employees to check all the machines and equipment’s that is used in manufacturing of oil so they company finds the discrepancies and divergence related to the machines. This will enhance employee morale and will energize them to work for the community’s bitterness. The CEO should also consult with the community heads which are affected by oil spillage and should assure them that their compensation will be paid the Shell Company. Chapter Four 4. 1 Conclusions and Recommendations: According to (Ezigbo, O. Bassey, O., 2010) the Shell Company is not only considered responsible for by the local community, the Nigerian Government, the environmental association for this environmental tragedy happened due to oil spill but also Shell Company was blamed for environmental devastation that has happened over the 50 years by Nigerian Government. The Shell Company reaction to this situation will have a crucial impact over shaping its business reputation in Nigeria for long-term. Taking this into consideration Shell Company is going through a serious problem which will not only have impact on Shell Company but also to the entire nation of Nigeria. In order to solve this issue Shell Company should work closely with the Nigerian government and the local community to find a common path. Shell Company should carefully use the leadership skills and strategies while dealing with the Nigerian Government and local community. Considering the stakeholder’s needs and distress, the CEO should manage to agree to the deal with the situation which is to accept its social responsibility and should deliver the compensation payment to the affected community and Nigerian Government as well the Shell Company should clean the environment in order to quite the media and NGO protest regarding Shell Company. It is true that committing the compensation payment to the affected peoples and fulfilling the social responsibility of cleaning the oil spill will be costly to Shell Company upfront but this action will benefit the company in long-term and will establish a good image of the company among the society they operate and also in global market. It is true that the oil spillage has happened by Shell Company but the oil spillage was not done intentionally. It is clear to everyone around the globe that Shell Company has either contracted or they by themselves have performed many of the humanitarian projects in order to enhance the social developments in the community. Shell Company has donated large amount of money to many communities for the betterment of that communities. The situation in Nigeria is very delicate and in order to resolve this delicate situation the CEO should use certain powers such as expert power, reward power and referent power.

Sunday, November 24, 2019

Why You Should Not Follow Your Passion

Why You Should Not Follow Your Passion Who would ever suggest that you should not follow your passion on your blog?  Surely this post is about to commit some kind of blogging sacrilege. But bear with me. Passion about blogging is an admirable thing. We are passionate about it here; thats why we build . But when it comes to the actual content marketing and writing, you might do well to be cautious about letting your passion be your guide. Why Passion Can Be Dangerous It seems to go against the zeitgeist of content marketing now, suggesting that you might approach passion cautiously. But passion can be deceptive and can get you into trouble if it is what youve based your entire blogs existence on. Passion is the quickest to develop, and the quickest to fade. – Robert Sternberg 1. Passion Isnt Always Consistent Passion is like the moon; it waxes and wanes (though not as consistently). When you only blog what youre passionate about, youll find you might have 10 posts in one week and then nothing for a month. If passion is your sole motivation and guide, youll never make it blogging. Youll start, but not finish. Youll be inspired once in a while, and flounder the rest of the time. 2. Passion Gets Bored Are you passionate about getting in shape? After months at the gym, if passion is your only motivation, youll get tired of the repetition. Passion quickly gets bored with how things are. Passion is too often motivated by measurable results. It isnt always interested in the day-to-day building blocks; it prefers the exotic dream, the what if. 3. Passion Is Inspired By Big Moments Passion is motivated by Big Moments. It is motivated by the day you lose 60 pounds, or the day you close the deal at work. Its motivated by the thought of getting 500,000 visitors to your blog every day. It isnt motivated by the unsexy work it takes to get to those big events.

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Catastrophism or Uniformitarism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Catastrophism or Uniformitarism - Essay Example From this perspective, the general amount of resources that has been incorporated into geographical studies is quite huge. Researchers develop initial findings where developments continue to explain on a certain sequence. i) The two scientists, who came up with a new geographical phenomenon might as well not only cause unending controversy, but a consequent period of regret for all the involved professionals. Apparently, such kind of possible ideas that might have been neglected at the very start of the development of evolution theories would result into a whole new understanding of the earth. ii) Just as resources were allocated for the Georgian theory, so should necessary authorities address this upcoming idea; its strength, proof and influence might give a realistic approach to catastrophes. The possibility of craters that made an impact over 250 million years ago would result into a new definition on the aftermath that the then species experienced. It might be a sad situation for a majority of the geologists, consequent blame among themselves, for basing their ideas on one orientation without consideration for the contrary. iii) According to Rampino, the effects discussed could be due to a huge catastrophe as asteroids could have caused dust expulsion that would have resulted in loss sunlight and could have caused a drop of temperature and chilliness, which, in turn, could have led to extinction of life on Earth for a considerable period of time. However, numerous scientists argue that these mysterious changes could explain the gravitational pull in all circular geological structures and the entire underground. It is a difficult situation, not only for the two scientists fighting for their theory, but also to the geographical institutions globally. Earthquakes, volcanoes, batholiths, loppoliths, dykes, craters, plateaus, mountains among other geographical structures, might have a very

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Week 8 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 2

Week 8 - Essay Example In fact, the inner structure of organization now is â€Å"a forum for its 193 Member States to express their views, through the General Assembly, the Security Council, the Economic and Social Council and the other bodies and committees† (â€Å"UN at a Glance†). And so, the main functions of organization are concentrated around protecting peace and security in the world by providing humanitarian assistance, public information and discussions, recommendations and other measures in order to complete the leading tasks of the organization. In this context, the role of Security Council is crucial. In particular, its body is composed by fifteen states (The Republic of China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and the United States of America as permanent states and ten non-permanent members) who should provide an affirmative vote for nine members; moreover, Security Council has a â€Å"primary responsibility for the maintenance of intern ational peace and security† (â€Å"Charter of the United Nations† Ch. V). And so, the UN in general and Security Council in particular are created in order to keep the world protected and harmonious. Nevertheless, during its existence the UN had met numerous obstacles on its way. In particular, the current situation in Africa shows that significant humanitarian aid granted by Western countries does not solve the continent’s problems at the root. In fact, the inability to compromise with African leaders turns the UN assistance into the political weapon that is used by local leaders as the tool to blame others in the inner problems. Moreover, the inner structure of Security Council causes problems in making all the decisions due to the necessity to provide an affirmative vote for all the permanent members. At first, in the bipolar system of the Cold War the friendly atmosphere was impossible to be set in conditions of the struggle between permanent members (USA and USSR) who had blocked all the

Monday, November 18, 2019

Work-Related Communication Problem in Corporate Communication Essay

Work-Related Communication Problem in Corporate Communication - Essay Example Signals of this prolific growth have been evident since 2003, which has resulted in a constant drive by retailers to introduce new delivery mechanisms to broaden customer reach (Diamond and Pinter, 2004). As such, this has seen a shifting approach in multi-channel retail strategy from bricks and mortar to multi-level formats including home shopping and mobile commerce (Levy and Weitz, 2008). With increasing and improving technology, various steps are taken for the improvement of communication because businesses run on the basis of good communication skills. For understanding the problems of communication, individual performance is very important to understand. Various assessment tools and theories-based on human nature provide perspectives in understanding individual performance in the workplace. To this end, the consideration of the social exchange theory and social penetration theory highlight the underlying motivation in social relationships. It is further submitted in the corporate context that a comprehensive understanding of the social exchange theory and social penetration theory are key organizational development going forward. The corporate communication is very significant for the development and establishment of businesses all over the world. The communication problems such as work-related communication problems are very crucial as they affect the organization negatively if handled carelessly. Leading sociologist George Caspar Homans is usually hailed as the central consolidator of Social Exchange Theory works in his work â€Å"Social Behaviour as Exchange† (1958). In general terms, the social exchange theory posits that social change and stability is a process of negotiated exchanges between parties (Homans, 1958).  

Friday, November 15, 2019

How Should They Practice CSR Activities Efficiently Commerce Essay

How Should They Practice CSR Activities Efficiently Commerce Essay The current focus of corporate social responsibility for corporations is no longer on how they implement CSR activities, but on how should they practice CSR activities efficiently and effectively (Roberts, 2003). During the last three decades, more and more companies, especially the large multinational corporations, have implemented and set up series of voluntary codes of conduct, formulated sustainability strategies and also announced and implemented environmental annual reports to engage in corporate social responsibilities. Indeed many multinational corporations have made efforts to engage in their corporate social responsibility by dealing with environmental and social issues in global supply chains. However, there is still a gap between the desirability of supply chain sustainability in theory and the implementation of sustainability in practice (Bowen et al., 2001; Andersen Skjoett-Larsen, 2009). In discussing the different aspects of corporate social responsibility; one issue needs to be particularly pointed out that this study cannot cover every single aspect of corporate social responsibility practices in terms of definition, application as well as management aspects. After all, corporate social responsibility cannot be easily disentangled from the companys operations. Since CSR is a complex concept and issue, it is embedded within the organisation from top to bottom and also across the global span of operations. This study focus on the key issues related to CSR practices in the global supply chains. Research questions and purpose This study is going to identify a conceptual framework for understanding and analysing CSR practices in global supply chains. The purpose of this study is going to address following research questions: Understanding corporate social responsibility and supply chains in the global context. How is corporate social responsibility related to and applied in global supply chains? How are corporate social responsibility activities and practices implemented and managed in a specific chosen multinational corporation- Primark? Structure of this study Chapter two explains the broad literature review on corporate social responsibility and supply chain management. In chapter three, methodology and data collection will be explained. Chapter four contains a theoretical framework of globalisation, corporate social responsibility as a challenge of business in a global context, supply chain in the globalisation, corporate social responsibility in global supply chains as well as the motivations of implementing CSR practices within supply chains. And how these concepts are interrelated will be also discussed in this section. Chapter five will provide empirical findings from a case study-Primark. Chapter six includes analysis of this study. Chapter seven will consist with conclusions, discussions, and limitations of this study as well as the academic and practical recommendations. Chapter eight is mainly followed by a reference list and the appendixes. The overall structure of this study is showing in the Figure 1. Figure 1. The structure of this study Literature review The main purpose of this section is going to provide a theoretical framework. It basically identifies the literature achievements and some current social issues that organisations confront with. Firstly, this section is going to explain three different concepts respectively including globalisation, corporate social responsibility and supply chain management. Then this section will explain how the process of globalisation influences the corporate social responsibility and global supply chains. This section is going to summarise the main motivations of implementing CSR practices in the global supply chains. An interrelated relationship between these concepts will also be identified. Globalisation Globalisation has become a common social phenomenon. Hines and Bruce (2007) provide a description of globalisation as the ways in which markets have converged throughout the world and the ways in which production poles have shifted geographically to satisfy global consumers. Levy (1995, p. 353) also presents the definition of globalisation from the economic point of view as the increasing internationalisation of the production, distribution and marketing of goods and services. Some academic researches argue that one motivation of globalisation could be the deliberate political decisions (Scherer Palazzo, 2009), supported by technological, social and economic development. The growing cross- area and cross- country transfer of resources in terms of assets, capital as well as knowledge, also foster the progress of globalisation (Scherer Palazzo, 2009). Along with globalisation, multilateral agreements and intergovernmental organisations are increasingly developed during the last three decades to regulate and maintain growth, stability and a minimum standard of living in the context of globalisation. The members of these intergovernmental organisations all agree to secure and maintain fair and human working conditions in home countries and countries where they have economic relationships with (Crane, Matten Spence, 2008). Although there are many agreements, regulations and intergovernmental organisations, in this section is going to discuss three of them which are most related to this study, including International Labour Organisation (ILO), General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) and also International Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO). The following portion is going to give a brief introduction and description of these multilateral agreements and intergovernmental organisations, identifying their potential to regulate gl obal standards for all nation states as well as multinational corporations. International Labour Organisation (ILO) General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) The General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) developed at the end of WWII leads to the breakdown of trade barriers and encourages cross-border trade and investments (Scherer Palazzo, 2009). International Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO) International Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO) are non-official, non-profit, professional organisations with a distinctive legal character, focusing on engaging and maintaining public welfare (Crane, Matten Spence, 2008; Clarke, 1998). The main public issues NGOs focus on are human rights, gender discrimination, social welfare, working and living conditions, the environmental issues, agricultural development and so on (Clarke, 1998). NGOs play an important role in working with national governments, international organisations as well as multinational corporations by using the net work of members to collect information related to specific issues (Ottaway, 2001). Many multinational corporations increasing confront with pressures from NGOs, to govern their behaviours based on various international agreements and codes of conduct. However, empirical studies and reviews suggest a link between corporate social responsibility, NGOs, and organisational performance (Doh Guay, 2004). As long as the multinational corporations believe those codes that NGOs provide could become uniform standard in their industry, they are willing to obey and agree those codes to gain global first mover competitive advantages which could improve efficiency and performance as well as build positive image in the long term. Researches in the role of NGOs in development of global corporate responsibility focus on the increasing growth in NGO influence as well as the involvement of government and corporations (Doh Guay, 2004). Corporate social responsibility Definitions of corporate social responsibility Corporate social responsibility is a debated subject and study concept in contemporary business and academia. It is also regarded as an important topic for research and worth for study (Burton Goldsby, 2009). Since the beliefs and cognitions about the relationship between corporations and larger society vary with the relevant issues of the day, there is lack of strong consensus on a definition for CSR. The most commonly cited definition is described by Archie Carroll (1979) as the social responsibility of business encompasses the economic, legal, ethical, and discretionary expectations that society has of organisations at a given point in time. Whats more, Matten and Moon (2004) offer further description of CSR as a cluster concept which overlaps with such concepts as business ethics, corporate philanthropy, corporate citizenship, sustainability, and environmental responsibility. It is a dynamic and contestable concept that is embedded in each social, political, economic and institu tional context.'(Crane, Matten Spence, 2008) Maignan and Ferrell (2004) develop a brief overview of conceptualisation of corporate social responsibility by summarising four different perspectives on CSR. The first perspective stated by Maignan and Ferrell (2004) is to view CSR as social obligation. Bowen (1953) states that organisations should take social obligations to pursue those policies, to make those decisions, or to follow those lines of action which are desirable in terms of the objectives and values of society. Whats more, in the later literatures, Carroll (1979) distinguished social responsibility into a pyramid (Shown in the Figure 2.) with four different layers which are economic, legal, ethical and philanthropic responsibilities. Companies should make profit with obeying the law, as well as act ethically in the business activities. Philanthropic responsibility is about corporate actions in response to societys expectations at the same time engaging in promoting goodwill or welfare (Gronvius Lemborg, 2009; Maas, 2010). Another perspective of corporate social responsibility is to view as stakeholder obligation (Maignan Ferrell, 2004). Stakeholder trust has a significant impact on the contribution to the long term success of the corporation. It is important for the organisation to take stakeholders interests into account. A stakeholder is defined by Freeman (1984:46) as any group or individual who can affect, or is affect by, the achievements of organisation objectives. Henriques and Sadorky (1999) identify four main stakeholders of organisations which are organisational stakeholders (including employees, customers, shareholders and suppliers), community stakeholders (including local residents and special interest groups), regulatory stakeholders (such as municipalities, regulatory systems and governments) as well as media stakeholders (Chung, 2005). Basically, the corporation has the responsibility and obligations to meet the rights and interests of all legitimate stakeholders, simultaneously, stak eholders place ethical expectations on business because they have a reciprocal relationship. However, how to balance the competing interests of these stakeholders is a crucial issue to organisations. The corporation has the responsibility for balancing delicately the multiple claims of conflicting stakeholders. However, the complex stakeholder terms make the decision-making process more complicated. It is also a major CSR challenge that companies could face during managing global supply chains. The third perspective mentioned by Maignan and Ferrell (2004) is CSR as ethics driven which implies that CSR practices are driven by the self-interests of a company. However, according to Jones (1995), when CSR is viewed as ethical driven, there is a lack of normative criteria to evaluate whether the business practices and activities should be considered as socially responsible. Thus CSR should be viewed as a self-developed regulatory mechanism based on its own interest independent of stakeholders obligations. The forth perspective stated by Maignan and Ferrell (2004) is that CSR is managerial processes. Under this perspective, Ackerman (1975) identified three main activities of corporate social responsiveness including monitoring and assessing environmental conditions, attending to stakeholder demands, designing plans and policies aimed at enhancing the firms positive impacts. Whats more Wartick and Cochran (1985) as well as Wood (1991) pointed out that issues management and environmental assessment could contribute to achieve a proactive social responsibility stance. Figure 2. Carrolls (1991) pyramid of corporate social responsibility By summarising the literatures of corporate social responsibility, there are two main characteristics of corporate social responsibility (Maas, 2010; Andersen Skjoett-Larsen, 2009; Crane, Matten Spence, 2008). The first one is the voluntary activities of companies in the realm of social and environmental issues that go beyond the law. Corporate social responsibility offers a more voluntary approach to address the role of corporations in society and manage externalities coherently, comprehensively and professionally. Another core characteristic is the relationship between business and larger society. Corporate social responsibility includes a wider consideration of interests and impacts of different stakeholders rather than just shareholders. The group of stakeholders and interest groups include customers, suppliers, employees, NGOS, the local community representatives, etc. The evaluation of capabilities and competences of companies is not just limited in a matter of making profits . Corporate social responsibility: a global challenge In a global context of corporate social responsibility, the literature on the study concept, both academic and practitioner, is wide and considerably large (Crane, Matten Spence, 2008). Various international institutions have set up guidelines and standards to make sure companies observe certain rules of conducts. Corporations pursue growth and market share through globalisation, they have confronted with several challenges that may limit the ability of gaining potential profits and organisational growth. These challenges may come from government regulations, environmental restrictions, tariffs and trade barriers. Crane, Matten and Spence (2008) conclude three main challenges for CSR in a global context. The first one is building new social capacities. In a global context of corporate social responsibility, the social meaning and definition differ in different regions of the globe. Thus, managing corporate social responsibility is not just enforced by the companies themselves and the legal framework issued by national government, it is also essential to consider and acknowledge the specific global standards and regional actual circumstances in which corporations practice and manage CSR. This current issue requires companies establish new roles or even found new operational department beyond their traditional expertise to develop partnerships with NGOs and local governments to address these issues. The second challenge mentioned by Crane, Matten and Spence (2008) is the involvement in rule-making. Under the nature of global governance, in a certain extent, corporations are involved in setting the rules of trade agreements, standardisation efforts as well as economic agreements. The participation in rule-making process makes corporations become the rule-maker as well as the rule-taker which could better implement and observe the regulations and standards they have agreed upon. The third challenge for CSR is broader accountability (Crane, Matten Spence, 2008). The accountabilities of CSR involve human rights, health care and education, global poverty and environmental issues such as global warming. At the global level, the accountabilities of CSR become more complex, broader and delicate. As mentioned above, it cannot merely focus on the local social and environmental issues, corporations also have responsibility and obligation on the countries they have economic relations with. However, more and more companies see corporate social responsibility as an opportunity rather than a threat in the global context, in order to increase market share, innovative power and employee motivation as well as cost advantages, Corporate social responsibility in a global context is no longer only on the agenda of large, multinational corporations, some small and medium enterprises which are involved in the network of international suppliers and customers also hold accountable for certain activities within the supply chains (Cramer, 2006). The way in which CSR is institutionalised, harmonised and practiced in the global context is fluctuating. Review of different motivations for CSR Supply chain management Handfield and Nichols (1999) present a definition and description of supply chain as the supply chain encompasses all activities associated with the flow and transformation of goods from the raw material stage through to the end-user, as well as the associated information flows. Material and information flow both up and down the supply chain. Supply chain management (SCM) is the integration of these activities through improved supply chain relationships to achieve a sustainable competitive advantage (Handfield Nichols, 1999, p.2; Cited in ). The supply chain management consists with various interdependent activities from sourcing and purchasing, production, distribution and transportation as well as sales that operate and manufacture in both the developing and developed countries around the globe (Chung, 2005) , as shown in the Figure 3. Figure 3. Key activities in the supply chain management cycle (Chung, 2005) QQà ¦Ã‹â€ Ã‚ ªÃƒ ¥Ã¢â‚¬ ºÃ‚ ¾20120820202923.png Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, the practice journals in the apparel sector developed the term pipeline to explain the whole process of raw materials through manufacturing processes to the final customer (KSA, 1987; Hunter, 1990; Hunter et al., 1993; Hunter and Valentino, 1995; Hines, 2007). More recently, demand chains and value networks (Hines, 2007) are used to describe supply chains which emphases the role of customers and adopts the trend of rapid changing customer demands. Figure 4 shows the supply chain process cycles. Figure 4. Supply chain process cycles (Hines, 2004; Cited in Hines Bruce, 2007) There are numbers of different perspectives on the development of the concept of supply chain management. Based on the analysis of Hines (2007), there are mainly four perspectives of managing supply chains. First one is to focus on improving productivity internally of supply chain management. The second perspective extends the first concern with productivity to improve operations. The third wave, which was developed in the transport and distribution literature and now is synthesised in the logistics literature, mainly concerned with moving goods efficiently. The forth and latest perspective emphases the important role played by customers within the demand chain. The development of supply chain increases the complexity and flexibility requiring organisations to deal with. During the last decades, active responsiveness to the supply chain has is becoming more and more important. Table 1 shows the main shift in analytic focus of supply chain over time (Hines Bruce, 2007). Table 1. Analytic focus From (pre-1990) To (post-1990 to present) Predominantly internal focus Operations (Internal efficiency) Exchange/transactional focus Functional processes (silo mentality?) Cost efficiency (inputs/outputs) Physical processes Product quality (only major concern) Simple (e.g. dynamic structures and relationships) Traditional linear supply chains Inventory management Predominantly external (dyadic, chain, network) Strategies (external market orientation) Relationship/structure focus Integration Value added (outputs/inputs) Financial, informational and virtual processes Service quality and total quality approaches Complex structures (e.g. networks) Digital supply chains (value nets) Information and customer service Source: Hines, 2004, Purchasing and supply chain literature from 1930s to present day (Cited in Hines Bruce, 2007). Until recently, most of the literatures and practice of supply chain management emphases on issues that relate to cost-efficiency of supply chains, relationships with supply chain partners, supply chain strategies, customer services as well as different types of supply chains. However, the increasing sourcing organisational activities and building partnership in developing countries as well as the increasing concern about environmental and social issues has led new social concepts which is normally recognised as sustainable supply chains, aiming at improving and protecting the companies and employees within the supply networks. The focus of sustainable supply is not only on the local optimisation of environmental factors, but also on the consideration of the entire supply chain processes. During the last decade, the study concept of supply chain sustainability has been received great interest in both academia and the practitioners (Hassini, Surti Searcy, 2012). Since companies are s uffering great pressures from various stakeholders, particularly from government regulators, non-government organisations (NGOs), as well as the global competition, a large number of companies have engaged in the commitment to corporate social responsibility practices. Hassini, Surti and Searcy (2012) provide a definition about sustainable supply chain management by summarising different academic and social concepts including business sustainability (Crane Matten, 2007) and the triple bottom line (Elkington, 1997), as the management of supply chain operations, resources, information, and funds in order to maximise the supply chain profitability while at the same time minimising the environmental impacts and maximising the social well-being. These definition emphases the importance of balancing and satisfying conflicting interests of multiple stakeholders. By analysing and summaries the literatures on the supply chain management and sustainable supply chains, there is a lack of appropriate and systematic performance measures and framework for supply chains which makes it difficult to evaluating the sustainability initiatives in supply chain management (Lehtinen Ahola, 2010; Hassini, Surti Searcy, 2012). The internationalisation of supply chains The process of globalisation creates competitive pressures for clothing and textile producers to search for ways to lower production costs, especially for the fast fashion, which is required quick respond to customer demands, high seasonal variation and creative design. Organisations improve and take efficiency measures from internal to a single organisation or network of organisations locked in a continuous supply chain. The second way that organisations to lower their production costs is to search lower cost sources of supply throughout the globe in order to find locations where conditions are more favourable than in the home market (Hines and Bruce, 2007). This process will create the global supply chains. Under conditions of globalisation, products are no longer manufactured and produced in just one country, but designed and produced in different production sites in various locations around the world which is a result of global investment (Homann, Koslowski Luetge, 2007). Globalisation has two facets which are globalisation of production and globalisation of markets, which means globalisation is present at the production stage as well as the retail stage. Primary products are increasingly manufactured in different production sites around the globe to benefit from lower labour costs, raw materials as well as the lower cost of transportation, which could increase the degree of division of labour. Homann, Koslowski and Luetge (2007) illustrate that division of labour could take place when manufacturers of primary products at different locations. Globalisation accelerates the process of international division of labour both in vertical integration and in the supply chain. Apparel manufacture is one of the areas that globalisation has offered significant cost reduction opportunities, due to high labour content and cost- effective to transport. As a result of globalisation, both multinational companies and local manufacturers in the apparel industry have benefited tremendously from cost reduction. Based on the statement of Cramer (2006), the globalisation of supply chains has led to heavy social criticism, especially when companies using child labour or working in countries that violate fundamental human rights, which damages companies reputation. During the last decade, one of the key business trends resulted by globalisation is the outsourcing key business and operation activities to suppliers and subcontractors. Based on the description of GEMI (2001), this trend has made certain suppliers more critical, extends liability throughout the lifecycle, and the result is a significant shift of corporate environmental, health and safety risks and opportunit ies off siteà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ As a consequence, some of those business risks and opportunities may become Procurements responsibility (Cited in Roberts, 2003) Based on the statement of Dicken (1998, p. 283), the textiles and clothing industries are the first manufacturing industries which are shifted by globalisation. The phenomenon of globalisation has shaped the structure, strategies and consequences in the textile and clothing industries. Global shifts in these industries also increase the trade tensions between developed and developing world (Hines Bruce, 2007). During the last three decades, many corporations restructure organisations and outsource many functional and traditional activities to the companies in the developing countries. Efficient and effective supply chains are essential to manage customer demand and brand operations, especially for the high-changeable fashion and apparel industry. The reasons that organisations pay attention on the supply chain management are due to the trend of globalisation, the reducing time of pushing into the market, as well as the rising standard of customer demands. Globalization has significa ntly changed the international market. Traditional supply chain is moving to the direction of the development of the globally integrated supply chain, becoming a cross-functional and cross-regional supply chain. Sustainable supply chain management plays an important role in maintaining brand integrity, ensuring business continuity and controlling operating costs. The main purpose to promote sustainable supply chain is to build long-term environmental, social and economic value. By continuing construction of the supply chain, companies could protect their long-term capabilities. The process of globalisation is one major reason of increasing reliance of corporations on suppliers and sub-suppliers (Welford, 2002). Thus the supply chain is more and more complex and international. This is what makes global supply chains within fashion markets and fashion marketing worth to study. The traditional supply chain management (SCM) is the process of the business operations in terms of supply chain planning, execution and control in order to maximise its efficiency. In general, the whole process of supply chain management could range from raw material acquisition, components, manufacture, logistics, quality services to pre-retail services including labelling and packaging (Hines Bruce, 2007). In order to reduce costs and improve efficiency, most of modern multinational corporations choose supply chain outsourcing services, namely, as the identity of the buyers chooses the most cost-effective suppliers (including foundries and logistics companies, etc.) to complete their production as well as enhance the marginal benefit. However, to maximise the efficiency as a prerequisite, the traditional supply chain management ignores the social and environmental factors, and therefore in the past decades, corporate social responsibility in supply chain management became a new m anagement philosophy in many organisations. Therefore how to better manage the supply chain performance and enhance their capacity is very worthy of study. Many well-known multinational enterprises, taking the cost of production into account, come to the Asian countries like China, India, etc., to corporate with local companies to manufacture their products. Since the majority of suppliers in developing countries are labour-intensive enterprises, and the relevant enforcement of laws and regulations needs to be improved, therefore working conditions are unsatisfactory. Frequent overtime, unpaid wages, under minimum wage standard happen consistently. Along with media exposure and NGOs fierce criticism of sweatshops in especially Europe and the United States as well as other countries, multinational enterprises are beginning to require suppliers to comply with the Code of Conduct (CoC) and the relevant laws and regulations in the location of the suppliers (environmental protection law, labour law, etc.) to conduct the labour and environmental requirements and policies. Subsequently a lot of industrial standards, such as the garment industr y, WRAP, EICC of electronic industry, the ICTI of the toy industry, and chemical industrys Responsible Care. In order to ensure the performance of suppliers in terms of labour and environment performance, internal staff or third-party would be sent to the supplier factories for review and evaluation. If the quality and feature of products are dissatisfaction, the suppliers will be asked to provide assistance to make improvements or even cancel the order. Corporate social responsibility in supply chain management For suppliers, the meaning and definition of CSR is relatively narrow, is merely about how to meet customers needs, achieve social and environmental compliance, such as timely payment of wages, make sure working hours, in order to maintain operational order and ensure efficiency and effectiveness. CSR for the majority of suppliers is only about law-abiding, however, they do not properly understand the benefits of the implementation of CSR, and thus they just implement the so-called CSR improvement involuntarily. Despite the long history of CSR, applications of CSR concepts to supply chain management have only emerged in the last few years. Sustainable supply chain management is about management of supply chains where all the three dimensions of sustainability, in terms of the economic, environmental and social sustainability, are taken into account. Supply chain relationships have a critical impact in a global world. In order to advantage from low labour wages, more and more companies frequently outsource part of or even whole business activities to companies in developing countries. When sustainable SCM principles are adopted, the companies are accountable for the social and environmental impacts along the supply chain, and are compelled to integrate ecological and social aspects into their decisions and actions along their supply chains. When supply chain relationships involve developing countries, companies also need to take responsibility for the well-being and performance of small upstr eam producers that work in those countries. The Figure 5 shows some CSR issues that companies may confront with in managing their global supply chains. Figure 5. Examples of CSR issues in supply chains (Neergaard and Pedersen, 2005, p. 103; Cited in Pedersen Andersen, 2006) Therefore, helping supplier social responsibility should focus on how to make suppliers understand the business value of CSR, how to reflect the return on invest