Critical Analysis of Dualism, Monism, and Solipsism Essay Example for Free

Critical Analysis of Dualism, Monism, and Solipsism Essay November 12, 2008 Intro to Philosophy Critical Analysis of Dualism, Monism, and Solipsism In this report I will give my critical analysis of the strengths, weaknesses, and clarity of dualism, monism, and solipsism. According to dualists, a human being is both a physical body, and a non-physical mind. We can easily determine properties that are physical. Anything that takes up space can be considered a physical property. However, it is nearly impossible to determine exactly what non-physical properties are. Without knowing exactly what non-physical properties are, it is difficult to etermine if both physical and non physical properties can work together. If we can not see the mind or soul in nature, can we be sure it exists? If the non-physical soul does exist, can it affect the physical body? Can a non-physical mind cause the physical body to move? For example, if I decide to go to a football game, and do so, then physical energy must increase in and around my body, since I got up and went to the football game. Where did this physical energy come from? Since we know that energy can be neither created nor destroyed, in order for physical energy to increase n any system, it has to be transferred from another physical system. Dualism suggests that the mind is not a physical system. If the mind is not a physical system, how does energy transfer from it? If energy is not transferred, then it must be created. Can the soul create new energy to move the body? Since energy cannot be created, this would be impossible to prove. Maybe thinking that our mind is different from our body is similar to Lois Lane thinking that Clark Kent is different than Superman. Is it possible for the mind to exist without the body? According to dualists, yes, it is possible. So if the mind can exist without the body, can any part of the physical body exist without the physical body? No matter what we do to the body, the energy will still exist in some form or another. This would make it impossible for any part of the physical body to exist without the physical body. Since the mind can exist without the physical body, the mind is not part of the physical body. Can our physical body exist without the mind? For example, if someone dies and their body is still laying there, it is evident that the body still exists. But how can you tell if their mind still exists? At this point we can fgure that the mind must be somewhere else. Its hard to imagine ourselves becoming separate from the body. But believing in this separation is what determines the difference between one whole body and mind, and a body separate from the mind. According to monists, a human being is identical with their body. In a monist state of mind the body is made up of one whole, rather than of many pieces. The body originally exists as a whole, and particles can be derived from it. If this is true, how do we know which is prior? For example, imagine a circle. Now imagine it divided into two semicircles. Which is prior? The whole circle, or the two semicircles? Did the two semicircles adjoin to make a whole circle? Or did the whole circle divide to make two semicircles? According to monists have to disprove that the circle was originally two semicircles. This would be impossible to do, which makes the theory of monism unclear. If a monist believes that a whole circle is prior, this means that they believe the whole body is one prior. Since monists believe that only either mind or matter can make up existence, does this mean that the mind cannot exist? Or does it mean than the mind and body annot exist separately? Solipsism is the belief that only the self is real. Solipsists believe this because they suppose that we can only verify our own experiences, and no one elses. Therefore they believe that we create our own experiences. If this is true, where do the experiences come from? If they are self generated, how did the self come into existence? If the belief that creating our own experience is true, wouldnt that mean that only one person in the world can be a solipsist and be correct in believing so? If two Solipsists ever meet, one of them are wrong in their belief. For example, if I am a solipsists and I am standing in line at the grocery store, and I speak to someone else who claims to be a solipsist then one of us is Just a creation of the others imagination. There is no way to verify if I am correct, or if the other person is correct. Solipsists also believe that what we are currently experiencing is the only thing that exists. So the grocery store that I was standing in didnt exist until I made it exist in my mind. If all we have is what is current, how can we have built what is here? Another problem I see with the belief of solipsism is that t seems that solipsists believe that the world is more complicated than solipsism. If solipsism is true, then the world must be a dream in our own mind. If this is true, then our mind must be complex enough to stimulate an entire world. Wouldnt you believe that something strong enough to stimulate an entire world must be more complicated than the world itself? I believe that it is extremely difficult to validate solipsism. However, the only difficulty I have in refuting solipsism is that it is impossible to validate any experiences other than your own. Therefore it is mpossible to prove any life is actually alive and not Just a creation of our mind that acts as if it was alive. After collecting so many thoughts about dualism, monism, and solipsism it is easiest for me to identify most with dualism. I know that the theory has its blemishes, but I find it difficult for me to believe that our mind or soul does not exist. I believe that our physical being is made up of more than Just our body. I have trouble agreeing with monists that we can be made up of only mind OR matter. For me, it is unfathomable to believe that we exist primarily because we created everything ourselves.

The Differential Association Theory Criminology Essay

The Differential Association Theory Criminology Essay Theories within criminology try to explain why and how crime occurs. This is done through examining various facts that are related to the individuals criminal behaviour and the crime they commit. There are a wide range of theories which can be used to explain the causes of crime and deviant behaviour from youths. Youth crime is a major issue in society; this essay will discuss three theories, the differential association theory, the labelling theory and the rationale choice theory. The theories will discussed and how they can explain crime will also be discussed, then a comparison of the theories will be given in order to identify their strengths and weaknesses in explaining youth crime. The differential association theory is one of the most valued theories within criminology. This theory was first discovered by Edwin Sutherland (1947), he developed the differential association theory in order to explain how youths engage in acts of criminal behaviour. This theory defines criminal behaviour as learnt behaviour which is acquired through social contact with other individuals (Hollin, 2007:). This theory explains how individuals learn how to engage in criminal behaviour through their attitudes, drive and motive behind the criminal act. An individual is most likely to be involved in criminal behaviour if they spend numerous amount of time with a person who has a criminal background and believes that breaking the law is acceptable. Furthermore Sutherland (1974) identifies nine main factors that can be used to explain why a person engages in criminal behaviour. This essay will now explain the nine factors in detail. The first factor that Sutherland believes is the reason as to why an individual engages in criminal behaviour is because the behaviour is learned. Sutherland and Cressey (1960) believe that the actions of an individual are influenced by the people they associate with. It is believed that because the individual main association is with their family, as that is whom they have grown up and live with, so therefore the individual social values and norms are formulated from them. Sutherland also stated that learned behaviour is not invented, nor is it inherited The skills and techniques required for an individual to engage criminal activity are not automatically obtained from birth, or through association with criminals, instead they are acquired through a process of learning (Sutherland Cressey, 1960: 123). The second principle refutes the idea that criminal behaviour is learned through the individual witnessing deviant or criminal behaviour. Instead this believes that criminality is learned behaviour though interaction with others in the process of communication. At a very young age children are accustomed to the norms of society, they are taught the roles of both a genders by people around them. They also learn these roles by observing the male or female characteristics relating to the specific gender. For example an individual may learn about prostitution through witnessing the nonverbal responses of these others towards the activity, such as rolling the eyes or staring and through discussions with people who engage in that activity (Sutherland Cressey, 1960: 123). Also Curran (2001) stated that communication is an example of how criminals are misled into a life of crime and deviant behaviour (Curran, 2001: 143). The third principle states that individuals commit crime because they are influenced by the behaviour of intimate people such as family members and close friends. Methods of communication from television and or media are less effective in influencing the individual (Sutherland and Cressey, 1960: 123). The fourth factor from Sutherlands theory is that learning criminal behaviour involves learning specific techniques, drives, motives and rationalization. Having a primary group of people around does not necessarily mean that the individual will engage in crime, but it does mean that they have the resources into the criminal rationale. For example being around a person who is has been convicted of sexual offence, may give the individual knowledge into how to engage in the same crime, but the individual may choose not to engage in that crime because they know from their socialization of societal norms that a sexual offence is unacceptable (Sutherland and Cressey, 1960: 123). Curran (2001) believes that the specific direction of motives and attitudes is learned from definitions of legal codes such as favourable and unfavourable.The fifth factor can be noticed when considering cultures form the United Kingdom and the United States. Both countries have various cultures within them and eac h culture has different perceptions as to what is favourable and unfavourable within society and this can cause a cultural conflict. The individuals pro-criminal or anti-criminal intentions are developed based on learned conceptions of the law as either favourable or unfavourable (Sutherland Cressey, 1960:123) The most important principle within the differential association theory is the sixth principle, which is when individuals associate themselves with people that engage in criminal behaviour and believe it is acceptable. Sutherland argues that an individual becomes delinquent only when definitions favourable to violation of law exceed definitions unfavourable to violation of law (Sutherland Cressey, 1960: 123).The seventh and eight factor states that the association vary in duration, priority, frequency and intensity. (Sutherland Cressey, 1960: 123 124). For example, if a young child is raised by a drug user they will be exposed to stronger definitions of deviant behaviour and will be more to likely to engage in deviant behaviour, than a teenager who has witnesses someone taking drugs at a party.The final principle believes that even though criminal behaviour is an expression of needs and values, it cannot be explained by those needs because criminal behaviour is an expression of th e same needs and values (Sutherland Cressey,1960: 124). For example if two individuals where both motivated by a need to gain money and respect, but one person engage in criminal behaviour in order to get the money and respect. Whereas the other person engaged in conforming behaviour. So therefore the need for money and respect cannot be used as an explanation for an individual to commit crime. The second theory that will be discussed is labelling theory. This theory claims that deviance and conformity does not emerge from the individuals actions, but rather from how others respond to the actions. Marcionis and Plummer (2005) state that labelling theory highlights social response to crime and deviance. The labelling theory became dominant in the early 1960s and the late 1970s when it was used as a sociological theory of crime influential in challenging orthodox positivity criminology. The main academics in this theory were Becker and Lement. Lement (1951) first established the view of deviant, and later developed by Becker (1963). Labelling theory has become a dominant paradigm in the explanation of deviance. This theory is created by the assumption that deviant behaviour is to be not only by the violation of norms within society, but also by any behaviour which is defined as labelled or deviant. Deviance is not the act itself, but the responses other individuals give to th e act. Becker (1963) believed that social groups create deviance by making the rules whose infraction constitute deviance, and by applying those rules to particular individuals and labelling them as outsiders. He also stated that deviance is not the act that the individual commits, but the consequences of the application of others by rules and sanctions to an offender. And the deviant one is whom the label has successfully been applied to. Deviance has been distinguished into primary and secondary deviance by Lement (1951). Lement described primary deviance as little reactions from others which have little effect on an individuals self-concept and secondary deviance as people pushing the deviant individual out of the social circle, which can therefore cause the individual to seek the company of people who condone deviant behaviour. Lement (1951) further argued that instead of viewing crime as a leading to control, it may be more productive to view crime as something with control agencies structured. Secondary deviance leads Goffman (1963) to define deviant career. Goffman stated that people who acquire a stigma which is a powerful negative label which changes a persons self-concept and social identity. Criminal prosecution is one way in which an individual is labelled in a negative, rather than positive way. Scheff (1984) believes that stigmatizing people can often lead to retrospective labelling, which is the understa nding of an individuals past with the present deviance. Scheff (1984) also believes that retrospective labelling distorts an individuals life in a prejudicial way guided by stigma and this is an unfair thing to do. Stigmatizing young people may actually lead them into a deviant career. Howard Becker (1963) claimed that social groups create deviance by labelling individuals as outsiders. Through an application of infraction constitute deviance. Furthermore labelling theorys approach to deviance mainly concentrates on the social reaction to a deviant act committed by an individual as well as the interaction process that leads up to the labelling. This theory therefor suggests that too much attention has been given to criminals by criminology because criminology views criminals as types of people alongside the insufficient attention to the collection of social control responses. This therefore means that the police, law, media and public association help shape crime. This is supported by the conflict theory which shows how deviance reflects on inequalities and power. This approach may also signify that the cause of crime may be linked to inequalities of race, class and gender. The conflict theory links deviance to the power of norms and the imagery of the rich and pow erful, which the law society supports. The concept of secondary deviance, stigma and deviant career all demonstrate how individuals can incorporate the label of deviance into a lasting self-concept . Becker (1963) believes that labelling is a practical act that has made politicians aware of which rules to enforce and what behaviour they should regard as deviant. The effects upon an individual being publically labelled deviant have been examined by Becker (1963) he believes that a label is an unbiased onion, which contains an evaluation of the individual to whom it is applied. The labelling theory will be a master label in term of captivating over all other statuses the individuals are under. For example if one is labelled as a paedophile, criminal or homosexual it will be difficult for the individual to overlook these labels and see themselves in positive roles such a parent, friend, worker and neighbour. Other people will view that individual and respond to them according to the label, also they will assume that the indi vidual has the negative characteristics associated with the label. Eventually the individual will view themselves in that label because their self-concept is derived from the responses of others. This can then produce a self-fulfilling prophecy where the deviant becomes the controlling one. The third theory that will be discussed is the strain theory. Unlike the differential association and labelling, this theory believes that social structures within society can influence individuals to commit crimes. Merton (1938) suggests that there are two types of important elements of social structure. These elements are the cultural goals, the function of the goals and interests The second element is how phases of the social structure define how society can go about achieving these goals, by placing regulations and creating laws (Merton, 1938: 673). Merton (1938) demonstrates four responses to this strain. The first, conformity, Merton suggests that people who take this path subscribe to cultural goals and go about achieving these goals by using societys institutionalized means. The second path, innovation, suggests that when a person finds that an obstacle inhibits the ability to achieve the cultural goals, the person will not use institutionalized means; rather, they will emplo y other means. The third path, ritualism, describes a person that will reject the culture goals of society, but use its institutions as an avenue for advancement. The fourth, is the polar opposite of the path of conformity such that a person who is retreatist will reject cultural goals and its institutionalized means, people that take this path are people who essentially are not part of society (Tim Newburn, 2007: 176). The American dream is a popular culturally defined goal, Merton argued, which through honest-dedicated work, anyone can achieve this dream of wealth. Society defines what avenues are to be considered legitimate to achieve this goal, for example, earning a college degree and earning a high paying job would be a legitimate path as defined by our society. Since wealth in American is not distributed equally Merton (1938) argued that strain often occurs for those who are undercapitalized and do not have access to these legitimate means. (Tim Newburn, 2007:175 176). Strain theory can cause negative feelings from the outside environment. These feelings include fear, defeat and despair, the most applicable feeling that can occur is anger. Agnew (1992) emphasised that individuals become angry when they blame their negative relationships and circumstances on others (Agnew, 1992: 59). An individual is incited with anger, low inhibitions and they begin to create a desire for revenge (Agnew, 1992: 60). Agnew stated that individuals who are subjected to repetitive strain are more likely to engage in delinquent and criminal acts, this is due to the fact that the individual becomes aggressive because they are unable to cope and the negative strain may become too much for them (Agnew, 1992: 61). Overall all three theories give a good explanation of youth crime. The similarity between these theories is they all aim to give a detailed explanation as to why individuals engage in crime and deviance. Differential association theory believes that all behaviour is learned and so therefore deviant behaviour is also learned. This theory focuses on key variables such as the age of the learner, the intensity of contact with the deviant person whom they learn from and the amount of good and bad social contacts they have in their lives. Whereas the labelling theory explains deviance as a social process where individuals are able to define others as deviant. This theory emphasises on the fact that deviance is relative and the individual only becomes deviant when they are labelled. Alongside this strain theory explains deviance as the outcome of social strains within the way society is structured. Not all theories give a good explanation for tackling youth crime, the labelling theory states that the label is the route of criminal behaviour, this is not a good explanation because there is a reason an individual becomes a burglar, not because they have been labelled as one. The individual is aware that their actions are deviant and that they are breaking the law. Some academics believe that there should be more research into the labelling theory and why individuals engage in criminal behaviour. The left realist have stated that the idea of avoiding labelling in order to avoid deviance is unrealistic. Also Aker (1967) criticised the labelling theory for claiming that deviants are normal individuals who have been labelled. However the labelling theory fails to explain why some individuals are labelled and some are not. Another criticism of the labelling theory is that it is possible to reject the label. Becker (1963) claimed that once an individual is labelled and accepts the devi ant behaviour, all their other qualities become irrelevant and the label becomes their master status. However there are examples that show it is possible to reject the label. This example comes from Reiss (19610 study on young male prostitutes. Although the males engage in homosexual behaviour they regard this behaviour as work and still maintain their straight image despite working as prostitutes. This study shows that the labelling theory is open to negotiation as some individuals reject the label. Differential association theory and the strain theory can be used to tackle youth crime. The differential association accepts that criminal behaviour is evident across all social classes, and that criminal attitudes and behaviour is learned through interaction with influential groups. In order to tackle youth crime the government will need to introduce organizations that aim at using positive role models to encourage young individuals who do not have positive role models in their lifes. By doing so individuals can learn positive behaviour instead of deviant behaviour from people who engage in unacceptable behaviour. The differential theory has been criticised in Glueck (1956) article on Theory and fact in Criminology. Glueck stated that it is difficult to measure the frequency, duration, priority and intensity of an individuals association, so therefore this males it impossible to predict and measure how associations result in the learning of criminal behaviour. It could be argued th at the individual did not learn criminal behaviour from an intimate social group, because the duration, frequency, priority and intensity was not sufficient. Glueck (1956) argued that if there is no sufficiency then the theory is not falsifiable which therefore males it defective. Finally the strain theory can be used to tackle youth crime because it explains the strains with society that may influence individuals to engage in criminal activity. This theory can enable the government to improve the social structure within society, for example providing more employment and better education opportunities. Strain theory has been criticised by Cohen (1955) who stated that the theory can be accounted for some but not all deviant behaviour. Cohen also criticised Mertons theory of strain for being too individualistic in describing the adaptations to strain (Pfohl, 1994: 269).

Strategies to Increase Client Retention in Personal Training

Strategies to Increase Client Retention in Personal Training Devise and support a plan to increase long-term client retention and reduce turnover in a personal training context. INTRODUCTION Physical inactivity is one of the leading causes of non-communicable diseases such as Conroy heart diseases, diabetes, and specific types of cancer (World Health Organisation (2010). Withthe development of advance technology, transportation, and household tasks that involves less exertion; this figure is expected to increase (World Health Organisation (2010).With and   an large amount of growing evidence suggesting a positive association between physical activity and physical well-being, less depression, increased cognitive function and slowing down in advancement of Alzheumeirs disease( Rolland et al, 2008).Physical activity is used to define any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that result in energy expenditure (Caspersen, et al 1985)which involves walking, jogging, and rock climbing for example. With physical activity being a vital determinant of energy balance, and is therefore important to weight-weight and obesity. Regular physical activity is associated with both enhanced social and economic capital (Cadilhac, et al 2011).With Society being faced by the rising health care and economic costs in part as a result of physical inactivity, individuals, business government have a mutual interest in the promotion of physical activity. The Majority of adults are aware of the benefits of engaging in regular exercise, with 70% of adults proposing that they would like to do more physical activity(Craig, et al 2009). Regardless of knowing the advantages associated with engaging in regular physical activity, most individuals do not take sufficient exercise to accrue the physical and psychological benefits of exercise. For example, the Health Survey for England (2008) pointed out that only 39% of men and 29% of aged 16 and over met the governments recommendations for physical activity, based the data.   In children aged 2 to 15 years, 32% per cent of boys and 24% of girls were classified as meeting the government recommendations. Most individuals in 2013 (90%) did not know the existing guidelines for the physical activity in the UK. Certainly awareness and knowledge about the benefits of physical are arguably not enough to influence changes in physical activity behaviour. An example being, an evaluation of the gov ernments Change for life campaign suggests an increased awareness, but little change in attitude and behaviour (Croker, et al 2012). Wide arrays of cognitive and psychological variables have been examined as potential links of physical activity adherence (Trost et al, 2002). Between these variables, previous studies have shown that the following are most consistently associated with greater physical activity levels such as fewer perceived barriers, greater enjoyment of physical activity, greater expected benefits, better psychological health, and greater self-efficacy for physical activity, greater self-motivation for physical activity, greater readiness to change and better perceived health for fitness (Sallis Owen 1999) Self-efficacy for physical activity, is described as an individuals confidence in their ability to be physically active on a regular basis, has been one of the strongest and most consistent cognitive correlates of activity level (Rhodes et al, 1999). Both adoption and maintenance is related to self-efficacy in physical activity(Sallis et al, 2007). It has been correlated with physical activity in a variety of settings, which includeslarge population based community samples, exercise groups healthy individuals, and solid exercise programs (Trost et al, 2002). Previous longitudinal studies on Self-efficacy have been shown to predict future physical activity levels (Sallis Owen 1999).In addition, self-efficacy may be improved through training and Morey feedback and therefore could be particularly a vital target for interventions. Perceived barriers also have relate strongly within physical activity. Lack of time is the most common reported barrier within psychical activity among UK sam ples (Dishman, 1994). Other common barriers include lack of facilities, bad weather, safety, lack of exercise partner fatigue or lack of energy, poor health, and being self-conscious about appearance (Trost et al, 2002).Perceived barriers may include subjective and objective components. Objective barriers such lack of exercise facilities may be modified by policy interventions and subjective barriers may be altered through cognitive interventions that disprove beliefs that hamper activity. Therefore the aim of this study is to encourage behaviour change and to increase participation in exercise in client retention. This will be achieved using the trans-theoretical model and to propose strategies to increase long-term client retention and reduce turnover in a personal training. THE TRANS-THEORETICAL MODEL The Trans-theoretical model has been defined as an integrative and comprehensive model of behaviour change that has drawn from all the important theories of psychotherapy (Prochaska Norcass, 1999).The TTM is made up of five stagesprecontemplation, contemplation, preparation, action and maintenance. This Figure shows each stage of the changes of stage Model (Prochaska, 1992) STAGES OF CHANGE   Ã‚   Stage 1: Precontemplation stage Precontemplation is the stage in which an individual has no intention of adopting a physical activity program. Majority of the Bedford who are sedentary may not understand the value of introducing physical activity into their daily routine. When working with them at this stage, encourage them to consider thinking about change and the several benefits. This is a time to educate the individual about the health risks of inactivity and the value of being physically active. With a fitness professional, it is important for them to validate that fact that the Bedford citizens are not ready to make a change; however they should offer encouragement and information about the benefits of making positive changes to their lifestyle. Stage 2: Contemplation stage Contemplation is the stage where the individual who is currently not active but who have the intention of adopting a physical activity program. An individual in this stage is still sedentary, but has started to think about how a sedentary lifestyle is negatively affecting their health. This individual is not ready to make a change, but is starting to think about physical activity as an option. It is important f as the fitness professional to encourage the client to weigh the pros and cons of a healthy behavioural change, so they can start to understand the benefits and participate in physical activity and make other positive lifestyle modifications. Stage 3: Preparation stage The preparation stage is the stage where the clients are both mentally and physically preparing to adopt a physical activity program (Marcus Owen 1992). The individual is no longer sedentary. They now have begun to partake in some from physical activity (e.g. walking, going to the gym, however, there is no consistency or commitment in this stage (Prochaska et al, 1994). Its important for the fitness professionals to work with the client to create a plan for adopting healthy lifestyle changes and overcoming challenges. This plan may include how to fit physical activity into a busywork schedule, also making healthy food choices when eating out and identifying and creating a social support system. This stage is about creating plans adopt healthy behaviour changes that specific to the client. Stage 4: Action stage The action stage is where an individual has been engaging in regular activity for less than six months. This individual begins to carry out the plan created during the preparation stage. It is important for the fitness professional to offer continuous support and encouragement while helping the individual focus on the long-term advantages if making positive behaviour changes. This is stage goal setting particularly useful. It is also important to teach the client how to anticipate and overcome obstacles that could deter their motivation adherence. Stage 5: Maintenance stage The maintenance stage is where the citizens have been engaged in regular physical-activity program for over six months (Prochaska et al (1992).This client has progressed from the action stage into the maintenance stage, where they maintaining new healthy behaviour changes. It is important for the fitness professional to offer continued inspiration to the citizens so they can maintain the changed behaviour, and to identify those things that might cause a setback. The fitness professionals should take time to work with individual to identify things that could tempt or undermine the positive changes the individual decided on. Furthermore, helping the client to strategize how to prevent these recently identified causes for a setback. The goal of the fitness professional is to provide the citizens with the tools necessary for maintaining positive behaviour changes. Therefore, keeping in mind that citizens may hesitate back and forth between stages Prochaska et al (1992).The shift back and forth may be caused by internal such as changes in self-efficacy and external such as commitment to family, work factors. APPLYING THE SELF-EFFICACY THEORY TO INCREASE LONG TERM RETENTION Self-efficacy is defined as the strength of a persons conviction that they successfully execute those courses of behaviours necessary to bring about specific outcome (Bandura, 1979). According to(Bandura, 1989) self-efficacy affects thoughts patterns that can aid or hinder the individual. An individual with high-self efficacy within physical activity will feel better that they have the ability to be successful in exercise related activates. For example, Fitness professionals will help their clients be more successful if they can guide clients to higher levels of self-efficacy. Essentially, this theory is specific to individual tasks and situations, rather than general situations (Rhodes et al, 1999).The transferability of self-efficacy from one area to another depending comparable two domains is. (Maddux, 1995). For example, if a client has high self-efficacy in the area of sport, it is likely that they will high-efficacy within a similar domain, such as exercise, However, there clearly be less transfer of efficacy to domain that is less similar , such speaking to large group of people. The issue of the transferability is one that fitness professionals should consider when aiming to improve a clients sell-efficacy. Referring back to (Bandura, 2000),self-efficacy influences activity choices, effort of intensity  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚   at a task, and persistence when facing obstacles. For example, is the client has low self-efficacy within exercise, they are more likely to avoid exercise. If they do exercise, they be more likely to pic forms of exercise that do not seem challenging, also when obstacles do occur, the client will lower self-efficacy will give up before the client with higher self-efficacy, moreover a client with high efficacy will put more effort into an exercise and be more determined when obstacles occur Bandura, 1990).This difference between clients who have low self-efficacy within exercise and high self-efficacy within exercise is an important distinction personal trainers should contemplate constructing exercise programs and coaching clients. HOW SELF-EFFICACY IMPACTS EXERCISE BEHAVIOR Self-efficacy has been established to have a strong correlation with intense [physical activity. In a survey of 2,053 randomly tested Adults, self-efficacy was found to be the strongest relation to vigorous exercise  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚   (Sallis et al, 1989).Poag McAuley, (1992)found that at any exercise intensity, individuals with higher self-efficacy had a lower perceived exertion during exercise in their study that included 67 adult women, exercise efficacy accounted for 11.1% of variance in womens perceived exertion.   This research has direct consequences for health and fitness professionals trying to promote physical fitness and exercise adherence because effort and persistence are two relevant factors in devising a successful exercise program. HOW EXERCISE IMPACTS SELF-EFFICACY Remarkably, self-efficacy and exercise have a mutual relationship. Even though self-efficacy is a determinant of exercise behaviour, exercise is also a source of self-efficacy (McAuley, 1991). This creates situations because people who need the most encouragement to exercise work out the least, due to low efficacy. However, one of the best ways to increase self-efficacy is through exercise, this will also allow clients to maintain long-term exercise program. For example, in a study conducted by (Mihalko McAuley, 1996)94 middle aged participants who previously did not exercise completed a 20-week aerobic exercise program.   Feelings of self-efficacy during a graded exercise test significantly increased pre-program and post program. Self-efficacy and also be improved during the exercise session.   Moderate exercise can increase self-efficacy in clients when evaluated after a gym session (Treasure Newbery, 1998). A study conducted by (Rudolph and Butki, 1998) found that as little as 10 minutes of aerobic exercise could increase moods of self-efficacy. This has implications for fitness professionals who may deal with a hesitant new client during their first apportionment. If the fitness professional can a get a client to begin exercises that they are comfortable with, this will lead to increases self-efficacy and more willingness to try more challenging exercises later in that session or future sessions. RECOMMENDED STRATEGIES TO INCREASE SELF-EFFICACY WITHIN EXPRESS Fitness professionals and fitness clubs can use several psychological techniques to aid in the development of high self-efficacy with their clients. Because self-efficacy is impacted by mastery experience, vicarious experience, social persuasion, and physiological state, it is logical to develop individual and group strategies aimed at increasing self-efficacy through each of these factors. INCREASING SELF-EFFICACY THROUGH SELF PERSUASION Verbal and social persuasion from respected individuals or from positive self-talk is the third source of self-efficacy (McAuley et al, 1994). As proven through in the studies of Weinberg et al, (1994).Verbal persuasioncan is a powerful way to influence self-efficacy. Exercise professionals should actively look for health promoting behaviours that beginners in exercise are performing and then verbally recognise that behaviour. Personal trainers can also provide behavioural contract that exercise can sign. For example, an individual may sign a contract that they will exercise for at least 30 minutes 3 times per week. Finally, self-talk has recently been shown to increase self-efficacy, decrease anxiety, and increase performance during completion of an athletic skill (Mcauley et al, 1994). Personal trainers can educate their clients on positive self-talk routines to help improve exercise performance. Teaching clients use of affirmation statements such as I can do this and Ive done this before and I can do it again can help the client stay focused on a positive result of their routine. INCREASING SELF-EFFICACY THROUGH VICARIOUS EXPERIENCE Vicarious experience is the second source of self-efficacy, can be targeted through important strategies such ad modelling and imagery (McAuley, et al 1991).Using the idea of modelling, a person trainer could share success stories of people similar to their clients have successfully adopted an active lifestyle.   This would help encourage my clients to implant the idea of I can do it too their minds.   Beginning exercises can analyse the habits of successful exercisers to understand how they reach that level.   Personal trainers, whether recognising it or not, regularly use modelling to increase efficacy within clients. For example, a trainer may use a number of modelling techniques to teach an exercise.   When, discussing an exercise, a trainer may point out another exerciser that is performing the exercise properly, then, the personal trainer demonstrates the exercise (vicarious experience) , finally, the trainer may have the client perform the exerciseà ƒâ€šÃ‚  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚   properly in front of a mirror (mastery experience. If the fitness professional finds that the client has family members or a friend who have adopted exercise into the daily routine, this may good model to use to access vicarious experience. It should be noted that the more similar the client is to model, the greater impact that this model should have on the clients Fitzsimmons et al, (1991). INCREASING SELF-EFFICACY THROUGH MASTERY EXPERIENCE The mastery experience stage is the most powerful source of self-efficacy, it is very important to focus on developing the mastery experiences within a clients exercise program. Using past personal successes, goal setting, appropriate exercise program design, and exercise logs are sources of mastery experiences that can increase self-efficacy. Past mastery experiences within domains should be emphasized when increasing a clients self-efficacy for exercise.  Ãƒâ€šÃ‚   Having the mentally of Ive done it once, I can do it again is powerful thought process that should be used. If the person has not experienced many mastery experiences in an exercise-related environment, it is essential use to effective goal setting during the beginning of their exercise program to create mastery experiences. Proper goal setting is widely recognised as a powerful source of improved task, which is critical the first phase of an exercise program (Gould, 2001).Developing realistic short-term goals lea d to early exercise success can have effect on increase exercise efficacy throughout the mastery experience stage Fitzsimmons et al, (1991) INCREASING SELF-EFFICACY THROUGH PHYSIOLOGICAL STATE Educating clients about what is going on inside their bodies and the physical sensations to expect during exercise can help them decrease anxiety that they may be feeling about the gym session. Once the clients understand that the feelings as muscular fatigue, as well as reaching and maintaining a high heart rate, are involved in exercise, they more likely to cope with physiological states more effectively.   If a client doesnt point out that they are highly anxious while thinking of exercise, a personal trainer can teach them to use relaxation methods such as deep breathing and positive self-talk to ease anxiety (Gould Udry 1994). CONCLUSION Self-efficacy is an important factor within exercise behaviour for gym members. It can help beginners keep going in the face adversity. Furthermore, it can help the middle aged push to another level of fitness. Also help advanced gym members overcome dramatic relapses such as injuries. Due to the fact self-efficacy are both a predictor and an outcome of exercise, personal trainers and strength and conditioning coaches should understand the role that self-efficacy plays in behaviour and decision making. In addition, they should implement several research based strategies as discussed in this study. Finally, in effort to get the most effect from way to increase self-efficacy in gym clients, fitness professionals main focus in this regards should be creating mastery experiences that will create the foundation for positive exercise behaviour with their clients which also increase long-term client retention and reduce turnover. REFERENCES Bandura A. Human agency in social cognitive theory. Am Psychol 44: 1175-1184, 1989 Cadilhac, D.A., Cumming, T.B., Sheppard, L., Pearce, D.C., Carter, R. Magnus, A. (2011). The economic benefits of reducing physical inactivity: an Australian example. International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity, 8, 99. doi:10.1186/1479-5868-8-99 Caspersen, C.J., Powell, K.E. Christenson, G.M. (1985). Physical activity, exercise and physical fitness: Definitions and distinctions for health-related research. Public Health Reports, 100, 126-31. Craig, R., Mindell, J. Hirani, V. (2009). Health survey for England 2008: Physical activity and fitness. London: The Information Centre. Croker, H., Lucas, R., Wardle, J. (2012). Cluster-randomised trial to evaluate the Change for Life mass media/social marketing campaign in the UK. BMC Public Health, 12, 404. http://www.biomedcentral.com/1471-2458/12/404 Dishman, Rod K. Advances in exercise adherence. Human Kinetics Publishers, 1994. Fitzsimmons PA, Landers DM, Thomas JR, and Van der Mars H. Does self-efficacy predict performance in experienced weightlifters. Res Q Sport Exerc 62: 424-431, 1991. Gould D and Udry E. Pyschological skills for enhancing performance: Arousal regulation strategies. Med Sci Sports Exerc 26: 478-485, 1994. Gould DG. Goal setting for peak performance. In: Applied Sport Psychology. William JM, ed. Mountain View, CA: Mayfield, 2001. pp. 190-205. Maddux JE. Self-efficacy theory: An introduction. In: Self- Efficacy, Adaptation, and adjustment: Theory, research, and application. Maddux, JE, ed. New York, NY: Plenum Press, 1995. pp. 3-33. Marcus, B.H. and Owen, N., 1992. Motivational Readiness, Selfà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ Efficacy and Decisionà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ Making for Exercise1. Journal of applied social psychology, 22(1), pp.3-16. McAuley E, Courneya K, and Lettunich J. Effects of acute and long-term exercise on self-efficacy responses in sedentary, middle-aged males and females. Gerontologist 31: 534-542, 1991 McAuley E, Courneya KS, Rudolph DL, and Lox CL. Enhancing exercise adherence in middle-aged males and females. Prev Med 23: 498-506, 1994. Mihalko SL and McAuley E. Self-efficacy and affective responses to acute exercise in middle-aged adults. J Soc Behav Pers 11: 216-223, 1996. Poag KG and McAuley E. Goal setting, self-efficacy, and exercise behavior. J Sport Exerc Psychol 14: 352-360, 1992. Prochaska, J.O. and Norcross, J.C., 1999. Comparative conclusions: toward a transtheoretical therapy. Systems of psychotherapy: A transtheoretical analysis, pp.487-528. Prochaska, J.O., DiClemente, C.C. and Norcross, J.C., 1992. In search of how people change: applications to addictive behaviors. American psychologist, 47(9), p.1102. Prochaska, J.O., Velicer, W.F., Rossi, J.S., Goldstein, M.G., Marcus, B.H., Rakowski, W., Fiore, C., Harlow, L.L., Redding, C.A., Rosenbloom, D. and Rossi, S.R., 1994. Stages of change and decisional balance for 12 problem behaviors. Health psychology, 13(1), p.39. Rhodes RE, Martin AD, Taunton JE, Rhodes EC, Donnelly M, and Elliot J. Factors associated with exercise adherence among older adults: An individual perspective. Sports Med 28: 397-411, 1999. Rhodes RE, Martin AD, Taunton JE, Rhodes EC, Donnelly M, and Elliot J. Factors associated with exercise adherence among older adults: An individual perspective. Sports Med 28: 397-411, 1999. Rolland, Y., Abellan van Kan, G. Vellas, B. (2008). Physical activity and Alzheimers disease: From prevention to therapeutic perspectives. Journal of the American Medical Directors Association, 9, 390-405. Rudolph D and Butki B. Self-efficacy and affective responses to short bouts of exercise. J Appl Sport Psychol 10: 268-280, 1998 Sallis JF, Hovell MF, Hofstetter CR, Faucher P, Elder JP, Blanchard J, Casperen CJ, Powell KE, and Christenson GM. A multivariate study of determinants of vigorous exercise in a community sample. Prev Med 18: 20-34, 1989. Sallis JF, Kerr J. Built Environment and Physical Activity. PCPFS (Presidents Council on Physical Fitness and Sports) Research Digest. 2006;7(4):1-8. Treasure D and Newbery DM. Relationship between self-efficacy, exercise intensity, and feeling stages in a sedentary population during and following an acute bout of exercise. J Sport Exerc Psychol 20: 1-11, 1998. Trost, Stewart G., Russell R. Pate, James F. Sallis, Patty S. Freedson, Wendell C. Taylor, Marsha Dowda, and John Sirard. Age and gender differences in objectively measured physical activity in youth. Medicine and science in sports and exercise 34, no. 2 (2002): 350-355. Weinberg RS, Hughes HH, Critelli JW, England R, and Jackson A. Effects of preexisting and manipulated self-efficacy on weight loss in a self-control group. J Res Pers 18: 352-358, 1994. World Health Organization. Global recommendations on physical activity for health. Geneva, Switzerland: WHO Press; 2010.

Demand: One of the Pillars of Economics Essay -- Understanding Demand

Demand and Quantity Demanded There is a clear distinction between demand and quantity demanded; furthermore, they have their own significance in the economics arena. In economics, the term demand refers to the will associated with purchasing a product, which one can afford, meaning that the price must be contained within the fiscal reach of the consumer. Demand is also a combination of aspiration to possess something, capability to pay for it and the willingness to reimburse. An example is the ability of citizens to pay for education, as well as to buy basic-food staff. Quantity demanded (QD), on the other hand, refers to the entire number of commodities demanded at any one moment, for instance, people buying 3000 laptops when the price is $ 500 (Baumol and Blinder, 2008). QD depends on the worth of products, not considering market stability. Substitutes and Complement Products Substitutes are products that can replace each other and still gratify the desires that the intended product aimed at addressing (McKenzie and Dwight, 2006). A notable example is butter and margarine, which meet the same purpose of the consumers. It is notable that changes in price of one product will have a significant demand on the other. Complement products refer to a set of goods that are consumed jointly. A sole example is the printer and ink cartridges, which must be used together. Other examples include camera and film, together with computer and Microsoft programs. Amplification in price for one product will cause a decrease in demand of its complement. The Difference between Demand and Quantity Demanded Understanding the difference between the two aspects is critical in avoiding errors in economics. Demand is used to verify the marketplac... ...ed of another related product. Elasticity of demand is another fundamental aspect in demand since a proportionate change in one factor affects the demand of a product. There is price and income as well as cross elasticity of demand, in economics. Several factors do affect the demand of a product, and these include weather, price expectations, and the consumer count in the marketplace. Works Cited Baumol, William and Blinder A. (2008) Macroeconomics: Principles and Policy. 11th edition. Florence, Cengage Learning. McKenzie, Richard and Dwight R. (2006) In defense of monopoly: how market power fosters creative production. Michigan, University of Michigan Press Myers, D. (2004) Construction economics: a new approach. Oxford, Taylor and Francis Gwartney, James et al. (2008) Economics: Private and Public Choice. Florence, Cengage Learning.

Concepts Of Lifetime Fitness :: essays research papers

Concepts of Lifetime Fitness Homeostasis is the state of equilibrium in which the internal environment of the human body remains relatively constant.   Two excellent examples of homeostasis are how the body maintains a constant temperature and blood pressure during strenuous physical activity or exercise.   Although there are many other activities in the body that display homeostasis, I will only discuss these two.    Temperature in the human body is usually kept at approximately 37 degrees Celsius.   To maintain such a strict temperature, the body has a few functions to combat the outside elements.   People cannot make themselves cold as readily as make themselves hot, however I will mention both homeostasis functions.   When the external temperature decreases, a portion of the brain called the hypothalamus detects the drop by means of the blood.   To compensate, the brain sends chemical and electrical impulses to the muscles.   These impulses tell the muscles to begin to contract and relax at very high intervals.   This is commonly known as shivering.   The production of Adenosine Triphosphate or ATP in the mitochondria of the muscles produces heat.   If the body temperature does not rise immediately after this, then a second function begins. The brain will signal the blood vessels near the skin to constrict or narrow in diameter.   This occurs so the heat deep in the muscles is conserved.   Since the vessels are now smaller in diameter, less blood is needed to fill them.   Since less blood is needed through the vessels, the heart begins to slow.   If the body remains in this slowed state, hypothermia could result.   Hypothermia is the condition in which metabolic processes are inhibited.   The medical world has taken advantage of this by inducing hypothermia in patients that are undergoing organ transplants. To fight temperatures higher than normal, as in exercise or on hot days, the body reacts in the opposite way than with cold.   Again, the hypothalamus detects the change of temperature in the blood.   The brain signals blood vessels not to constrict, but to dilate.   This increases the diameter of the vessels, and results in the need for more blood. Since more blood is needed to fill the vessels, the heart pumps faster and that causes respiration to increase.   The increased respiration will make the body exhale some of the internal heat, like placing a fan in a window to cool a room.   The blood vessels are dilated so the heat deep in the muscles is easily released.   Another commonly known mechanism to fight heat is sweating.   Sweat glands found throughout the body are stimulated by the hypothalamus to excrete sweat and when the sweat evaporates,

Economic Recovery in UK Essay

Introduction Over the past few years, UK economy has been is a recession period characterized by decline in positive business conditions. This period indicated unfavorable business environment due to aspects of high taxation, reduced demand and high cost of imports. The period was also characterized by low cost of imports which results to unfavorable balance of trade in UK. Economic downturn in UK has great influence in business especially the high street brands (Holley, 2012). With that kind of economic, grow conditions there was increased concerns about the future of high street s. this trend threatened the long term survival and attractiveness of high street brands since the economic conditions undermined the ability to attract a range of potential customers and other businesses. However, signs of economic recovery are evident in United Kingdom. The United Kingdom is returning to economic growth, this is according to a range of economic indicators which reveal a stable housing market; firm’s raising confidence and employees’ readiness to hire (Irvin, 2006). According to economic data is growing faster where effects are felt throughout the economy. The data suggests that the economic recovery is evident in nearly all sectors in the United Kingdom economy. According to economic data in UK, the economy grew by 0.8 percent compared to last year economic grow denoted by 0.4 percent (Holley, 2012).  Ã‚   Considerably, economic recovery in UK has greatly boosted business in the country. For instance, many organizations have grown considerably in the current business environment that is ensured by the economy recovery. More precisely, companies such as Tesco has registered and increase in the total sales compared to recent past (Tesco annual report, 2013). This in turn has enhanced organizations strategic approach in regard planning in the current business environment. Most important, the constant economic recovery mood in UK is improving as most businesses are reacting to the increased business confidence through search of new markets. The situation has also encouraged investment and saving in United Kingdom. Increase in business confidence is accelerating; this is a fundamental financial performance signal in UK that indicates reported profit and turnover rise and is expected to improve further (Irvin, 2006). According to economic data, unemployment level has decreased drastically since the start of economic recovery in the country. This situation is characterized by increased demand, growth of most of sector especially retail. In addition, economic firing has ensured favorable balance of payment in UK (Holley, 2012). The economic recovery in UK also indicates enhanced future for high streets brands since it is improving its attractiveness and survival. According to economic data, improved economic conditions in UK will attract more potential investors and retailers to high street brands business. This because of the enhance business confidence and favorable business climate in United Kingdom. Generally, all sectors of United Kingdom economy are growing considerably showing continuing creation of employment opportunities by the government, educated workforce and enhanced living standards through reduction of costs of living (Irvin, 2006). According to economic data, there are indications of enhanced consumer confidence in United Kingdom. This phenomenon is precisely defined by the current economic recovery in  Ã‚   the country. According to Holley (2012), the level of consumer confidence is high indicated by the current economic conditions in a country. The improvement in consumer confidence is also ensured due the decline in unemployment in UK which helps to boost confidence. In addition, decline in house prices has also accounted for the improved consumer confidence in UK. Consumer confidence is fundamental as it influences economic policies in a country. Considerably, increased consumer confidence in UK has caused households to opt to invest instead of savings since they are confident of better returns with the prevailing economic conditions in the country. Positive trading conditions as a result of economic growth in U.K Growth in business confidence is a major indicator that enhances economic growth. This has lead many investors in the UK to invest in many sectors since they have confidence on the business has there is a confirmed stable growth that motivates them to even invest more in other different sectors. This trading condition has highly encouraged many businesses to search for new markets in the UK and this comes a result of them many investors within and outside UK having enough confidence on what they are investing thus, these has attributed much to enormous growth in their economy. In addition, they expect growth to create a huge pace now as the recovery continues to build steadily and business investment and net trade are also expected to offer increasing support to enhance over the coming years (Trade and investment for growth, 2011). Fairtrade sales in U.K have highly increases going up to â‚ ¬2.89bn globally towards the end of 2008 (Cofnas, 2012).   On the same line with the economic growth there is a high increase in demand that helped to avoid the economic crisis and demonstrate the difference that depict with Fairtrades. Consequently, Fairtrade is highly attributed towards enhancing the economic growth in UK. Many of the latest research prevail that through the mechanisms entailed, Fairtrade grants a positive economic opportunity for those individuals with smallholder farming families competent and ready to join producer associations and provide products of the right provisions for the required market. Consequently, numerous Fairtrade co-operatives are appropriate and are becoming stronger, frequently showing a higher capacity to survive in intricate times and becoming capable to grant important services to their members. This strengthening is mainly noticeable where producer ownership supplementary along the assessment chain is attained as demonstrated by the share ownership of producers (Cofnas, 2012). Increase in supply is another positive condition that has resulted from the economic growth in the UK. This came into consideration has the government offers and subsides to those producers of the necessary goods and services which generates external benefits that will diminish the cost of production as well has encourage more supply. This has been enacted to encourage the supply of merit goods in the UK. For instance in the education sector, health and those issues dealing with the housing finance and therefore, these particular merits can easily be funded from the local government taxation or from the nongovernmental organization and this has highly contributed to the economic growth over the last few years. This is basically because they focus on the public goods, for example they concentrate on building roads, bridges, airports and other more areas that are considered to be generating more income thus showing an increase in tax revenue. In addition, the food processing industry such as Cadbury plc is among those who have heavily benefited from the positive trading conditions, thus it noted to be among the largest leading confectionary with a wide range of products. Back in 2007, the Cadbury plc closed down the keynsham chocolate factory and this lead to about jobs closed. This was enhanced by the wake of wake of the global economic crunch, however, Presently, Hershey Chocolate Company, a US based plc is making tireless efforts to acquire Cadbury so as to enjoy broad world markets due to the positive tradition conditions that have been put in place and enhanced fully. Lastly, tariffs or free trade is another indicator that has enhances economic growth in the UK.   According to the economists, when high tariff was not formulated, UK was not economically productive as it was stuck in a huge economic depression in the early years. In contrast, the tariff has currently created appropriate economy in that there is large proportion of the entire population at the same time dependent on commerce and industry sector. The imposition of free tariff has highly promoted growth of several industries. According to the economists, the persistence in economic history, it shows the free trade provides long-run conditions for growth that maybe better than any other way (Aldridge, 2013). How positive trading conditions affects approaches to strategic planning Strategic planning is the process in an organization which leads the organization to coming up with news strategies and ideas and finding for means of achieving those strategies as one way of improving an organization or company. It deals with knowing what is to be done, how it is going to be done and for what purpose and the means of doing it. Strategic planning involves understanding a company’s mission, vision, strategies, aims, objectives, goals and achievements. The tools required for this include the pestle factors example economic, social, political, legal, environmental and technological and informatics factors. The construction industry which had been affected by the economic breakdown is now improving as various business strategies are being enhanced. United Kingdom’s GDP is pushed upwardly through enhancing the positive trading conditions. The trading conditions in the United Kingdom are currently improving amidst many challenges facing the economy of Britain thus if the GDP is to move upwards then the trading conditions must be improved. Last year November, the United Kingdom’s exports had a small positive change which made the imports to decrease thus enhancing positive trading conditions which in return reflected a positive change in the GDP (Great Britain & Great Britain, 2013). Change in trading conditions impacts greatly on the GDP thus it is determined by trading conditions. United Kingdom’s sterling pound is weakening which contributes to an increase in the amounts exported because of recovery in trade worldwide. Thus as the number of exports increases the GDP maintains a positive move thereby stabilizing the economy thereby maintaining the strategic planning in order to maintain that positive move in the economy. Trading conditions determines which strategies to be put in place, when they will be made, who will make those strategies and resources required for the strategies to remain successful. The United Kingdom’s trading conditions has suffered challenges over the last few years but lately the trading conditions are taking a positive direction. The manufacturers have learnt their lessons and identified their mistakes which enable them make strategic plans in order to avoid such mistakes in future. Strategic plans have been made in such a way that employment and investments remain balanced. By doing this, the economy of United Kingdom is getting boosted and the sterling pound is gaining value (Great Britain, 2007). Investors and employers are applying good strategic planning which is greatly reflected by improvement of trading conditions and economy at large. The manufacturers are now getting huge profits, importing less and exporting more which shows that the trade market is improving greatly. The United Kingdom is trying to balance its trade which is affected by a number of factors (Middleton, Rodger & MacCulloch, 2008). The production cost of the exports should always remain lower than the cost of importation for the economy to remain stable. United Kingdom is strategizing that there are enough and available raw materials instead of importing them. It has put restrictions on trade in terms of taxes and made sure that the trading environment is maintained inclusive of standards of health, safety of its people and conducive environment. Foreign exchange is a key strategy and a contributing factor in the economy of the United Kingdom. The high the foreign exchange the more stable the economy is and vice versa. In addition, it has come up with the strategy of minimizing the cost of the goods sold locally and increasing the cost of its exports. In addition, it has reduced the amount of imports in the country by producing most products locally. The commercial banks and investments banks were greatly affected by the economic decline then followed by the construction and insurance firms and companies. Through the good strategies enhanced the economic started to rise and is now growing to higher standards. The merits, effectiveness and relevance of prescriptive and emergent approaches to strategic planning in this improving economic climate The effectiveness on the strategic planning is based on the ability on how managers and leaders are able to establish concrete strategies which help them attain their vision and mission in the most appropriate means possible.   Strategic planning is fundamental to address long term issues which might which might be as a result of prescriptive and emergent approaches.   During hard economic times, strategic planning is vital for organization to draw up tangible strategies capable to enable the firm to reach out its desired goals and objectives. Prescriptive strategic planning can be defined as a strategy established before the whole implementation process starts (Jeffs, 2008). The whole idea revolves around investigation, planning, development and full implementation.   This approach is vital particularly to ensure analysis of a firm is stable in relation to the economic conditions. Prescriptive strategy is more focused towards developing enough ability to predict the changes occurring on the external environment. This approach makes it achievable to systematize difficult activities and conditions as a way of addressing the current environmental changes (Friend & Zehle, 2004). On the other hand, emergent approach is an appropriate alternative to the prescriptive strategic planning.   Emergent approach strategies are developed as time elapses but usually without any objectives or reasons.   This approach is a bit flexible because it allows creation of more creative and responsive process in relation to the present economic conditions.   This approach is not only important but also appropriate mainly to address the volatility evidenced in the present creative and responsive process. This approach is important because it can be easily altered in the best way possible to suit the current economic conditions (Rao, Rao & Sivaramakrishna, 2008). It is also be applicable in unpredictable environment in order to address some key issues of concern.   As evidenced the climate is changing rapidly, and therefore it is important to adapt good strategies to ensure and maintain firm’s survival. Effectiveness of both prescriptive and emergent approaches is based on the ability to establish clear business objectives and aims.   The level of flexibility between different companies matters a lot in relation to adaptation of these strategies.   Evidently, firms must develop tangible strategies to tackle the current changes in the environment in order to ensure their survival.   Effectiveness of the strategic planning is based on the fact how a firm is prepared enough to handle all maters presented by economic conditions (Jeffs, 2008).   The focus towards attaining business objectives is the key driver towards establishing effective strategic plan. The numerous changes happening in both developing and emerging countries have led to establishment and diffusion of efficient strategic planning.   The effectives of both prescriptive and emergent approaches are determined by how an organization is able to polish its operations and implementation of viable strategies. In other works it can be stated as the degree at which firms are able to successfully achieve its desired objectives in the most appropriate procedural.   The effectiveness of strategic planning is closely linked with its achievements as a result of established objectives.   Basically, strategic planning is more concerned with objectives and results despite presence of economic conditions (Rao, Rao   & Sivaramakrishna, 2008). Strategic planning is relevant to address all issues emerging as a result of economic trading conditions.   According to Friend and Zehle (2004), both prescriptive strategies and emergent strategies are so relevant to address the current situation as witnessed in the in the current economic climate of instability. There is need for companies and organizations to effectively implement and adapt these strategies mainly to ensure their survival.   The aim of these strategies is to ensure that an organization has proper mechanism put in place to handle changes which might be as a result of environmental changes (Jeffs, 2008). Strategic planning has gained more popularity with many companies adapting strategies with more efforts focused towards achieving the aims and objectives goals.   Evidently, strategic planning helps organizations to grow progress and successfully adapt effective strategies to address the constantly changing environment. Conclusion From the above paper it is evident that, over the past few years, UK economy has witnessed a recession period characterized by decline in positive business conditions. This period indicated unfavorable business environment due to aspects of high taxation, reduced demand and high cost of imports. The implication is widespread low imports hence attracting all trading businesses. The economic recovery in UK also indicates enhanced future for high streets brands since it is improving its attractiveness and survival. According to many indicators, UK economy appears to be emerging from the turbulence of the past five years; with its devastating impact on many businesses including well known high street brands. Strategic planning is vital to address long term issues which might which might be as a result of prescriptive and emergent approaches. Reference Aldridge, I. (2013). High-frequency trading: A practical guide to algorithmic strategies and   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   trading systems. Cofnas, A. (2012). Trading binary options: Strategies and tactics. Hoboken, NJ: Bloomberg   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Press/Wiley. Friend, G., & Zehle, S. (2004). Guide to business planning. London: Economist in association    with Profile Books. Great Britain. (2007). Success and failure in the UK car maunfacturing industry. London: The    Stationery Office. Great Britain., & Great Britain. (2013). The future of the European Union: UK Government   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   policy : first report of session 2013-14. London: Stationery Office. Holley, D. (2012). UK economic recovery: The long road : a political thesis. Guildford: Grosvenor House. Irvin, G. W. (2006). Regaining Europe: An economic agenda for the 21st century. London:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Federal Trust for Education and Research. Jeffs, C. (2008). Strategic management. Los Angeles: SAGE. Middleton, K., Rodger, B. J., & MacCulloch, A. (2008). Cases and materials on UK and EC   Ã‚   competition law. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Rao, C. A., Rao, B. P., & Sivaramakrishna, K. (2008). Strategic management and business   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   policy: Texts and cases. New Delhi, India: Excel. Trade and investment for growth. (2011). London: Stationery Office.      

Exposé of Hypocrisy of Imperialism in Conrad’s Heart of Darkness Essay

In his novella Heart of Darkness, author Joseph Conrad attempts to expose the hypocrisy of imperialism since its explorers emphasize the importance of helping natives, while actively exploiting them. He also depicts the Africans in the story as nothing more than mindless savages. During his journey to the Congo, Conrad witnessed the horrors firsthand that the Europeans inflicted upon the African natives. He shares his experiences through Marlow, the protagonist, who sees the evil side of humanity through its materialism. Conrad denounces the oppressive nature of those of his time by exposing their social darwinist thought. Imperialism is portrayed as a hypocritical tool used purely for the Europeans’ own benefit. Europeans began what is known as â€Å"the scramble for Africa† in the late 19th century. The major powers all fought each other to gain control, disregarding the Africans in the process. The Europeans believed themselves to be taking up â€Å"the white man’s burden†, which was the belief that the Europeans had a duty to gain control of Africa and civilize the inhabitants in order to help them. The hypocrisy of it was that what they deemed as helping and civilizing them was actually entirely against the natives’ wishes, as their culture was being destroyed as well as their people enslaved. Conrad depicts this throughout his novel, Conrad denounces oppression by showing racism to criticize the immorality and cruelty of enslaving others for personal gain. Inhumane treatment of the africans is expressed through how they wore rags, which gives a sense of desolation. Racism is conveyed through the dehumanization of the natives, revealing that their captors went as far to put them in collars, showing they were seen as and treated like dogs. Even Marlow refers to his helmsman as a piece of machinery. Nigerian writer Chinua Achebe, author of Things Fall Apart, famously criticized Heart of Darkness in his 1975 lecture An Image of Africa: Racism in Conrad’s â€Å"Heart of Darkness†, saying the novella de-humanized Africans, denied them language and culture and reduced them to a metaphorical extension of the dark and dangerous jungle into which the Europeans venture. All the European colonists desired was wealth and treasures, willing to go as far as completely exploit other human beings. The metaphor comparing colonists to burglars was used to convey that they had no morals and did whatever they please in order to achieve personal gain, including exploiting them. This is all very hypocritical considering they believed themselves to be helping and civilizing them. Conrad uses Mr. Kurtz to unveil how he feels about imperialism as a whole. Marlow describes how Mr. Kurtz says everything is his own, which shows that imperialists claimed Africa is theirs and it was okay to exploit the natives as slaves. Conrad uses the dehumanization of Kurtz to exemplify his beliefs to maintain one’s morals to avoid becoming caught up in a world of materialistic desires. Mr. Kurtz is described as having a bald head similar to that of an ivory ball, leading the reader to believe that all he thinks about is ivory. The fact that he is withered is to show Conrad’s belief of what greed will result in upon a person.