Music Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words - 1

Music - Research Paper Example This kind of music is highly inspired by the music of Appalachia (Peterson). Example of Bluegrass Music: Blue Moon of Kentucky is a beautiful composition by the bluegrass musician, Bill Monroe. It is basically a waltz which was written in 1946. Later, this song was sung and recorded by different other artists including Elvis Presley. It is an official song of Kentucky. The song starts with slow smooth tunes and then picks it pace a bit faster on the notes of banjo and acoustic guitar. The song discusses the moonlight and the romantic aura it creates in the night. The lyrics are simple but very captivating. It has different expressions of love, sadness on saying goodbyes to the loved one and a prayer that this moon will always shine brightly on the one who has just said goodbye. In simple words, it’s a beautiful bluegrass musical composition ( Blue Moon of Kentucky). c- Hanks Williams: Hanks Williams was an American country music artist. He was famous for his excellent musical compositions and song writing. ‘Your Cheating Heart,’ ‘Hey Good Looking,’ and ‘I am so Lonesome I Could Cry’ represent some of his magnificent musical work. His songs have been sung and recorded by different musicians and singers. He was associated with the band Grand Ole Opry. He gave 11 number-one hits in his musical career. His song, Hey Good Lookin’ is a simple musical composition on guitar and banjo. It contains simple lyrics and simplest musical notes. d- Bob Wills: Bob Wills was an American Western swing musician. He was an excellent songwriter. By many musical figures, he is considered as the co-founder of the western swing. He is often known as the ‘King of the Western... This paper shows some kinds of country and western music such as hillbilly music, bluegrass music, new grass, country pop, cajun music, western swing. Hillbilly Music is a specific term used to refer a certain group of people who lives in rural and mountainous areas of the Unites States. Hillbilly is closely associated with country music. The term refers to denote the old-country music or bluegrass. Hillbilly boogie was the first musical tune that contained the word, hillbilly. It was composed by Delmore Brothers in the year 1946. Bluegrass Music is another form of American music which is a subgenre of country music. It is a musical composition of different regions such as it contains musical influence of Scotland, Ireland and England’s traditional folk music on the other hand; it has some musical touch of African American compositions due to the combination of few jazz elements. This kind of music is highly inspired by the music of Appalachia To sum up the paper talks that new grass is one of the major subgenres of bluegrass music. It is a musical revival and combination of different genres used with each other to create a new kind of music. Electric instruments and other genres especially, rock and roll has played a significant role in creating this type. It became known in late 1960s and early 1970s. Gospel music defined the personal, spiritual or communal belief related to the Christian life. It gave new dimension to the musical industry and musical compositions Country pop is a subgenre of country music. Cajun Music is a symbolic music that represents Louisiana. Western swing music is a subgenre of ever-green American country music.

Why There Would Be No People Without Plants Assignment

Why There Would Be No People Without Plants - Assignment Example Plants are an important part of the ecology and help in the maintenance of the normal environment on Earth. They are essential to life because they help in cleaning the atmosphere, maintain an appropriate balance of gases on Earth and also they serve as a source of food for the human beings as well as other living beings. Plants have been endowed with a very special property which makes them unique and assists them in performing their functions. The plants take up energy in the form of light from the Sun and a set of reactions ensues within the leaves of the plants. This sequence of reactions leads to the formation of food sources in the form of carbohydrate from the carbon dioxide which is captured by the leaves from the atmosphere. The leaves possess this property due to the presence of a green pigment known as chlorophyll. At the same time there is release of oxygen from the leaves of the plants. This process is known as photosynthesis as it uses up light and it occurs during day time because of the availability of sunlight during the day and at the same time there is synthesis of carbohydrates. Hence this function of the plants assists in the utilization of carbon dioxide which is produced in the atmosphere by human beings during breathing and also during other processes. The plants also utilize oxygen like all living matter for the carrying out of the process of respiration. This oxygen is used to drive the processes a t the cellular levels to provide energy for the appropriate usage of energy. Hence the plant has a complex mechanism in which it utilizes carbon dioxide and produces oxygen in the process. But they also then utilize oxygen for carrying out essential reactions. The plants basically carry out the process of photosynthesis mainly during the day and the process of respiration and utilization of oxygen is at peak during the night. Therefore it can be seen that the plants form

Corporate Strategy of Emerson Electric ACP Company Case Study

Corporate Strategy of Emerson Electric ACP Company - Case Study Example It is evidently clear from the discussion that profit pools are the highly relevant business strategy which analyzes organizational activities and managerial processes to provide the firms with the competitive advantage by creating a value chain for the product and services. According to Porter, the value chain comprises of five primary and four secondary activities. Primary activities are inbound and outbound logistics, operations, marketing and sales, and services. Secondary activities include procurement, human resource management, technology development, and infrastructure. The firm’s analysis of these factors helps it to develop the appropriate strategy to maintain its market position and gain the competitive advantage in the industry. Few of the various activities that the firm analyzes and then implements the changes to improve and improvise its performance outcome can be briefly described as under. The process facilitates the creation of effective logistics for the sup ply chain of raw materials and the network of wholesalers and distributors so that the quality goods and services can reach the consumers timely and efficiently. The core business strategy of any business heavily relies on the market and sales strategy that facilitates its products and services to meet the needs and requirements of the people at large. Competitive pricing and a strong market position are major business compulsions that are need driven. They use various types of marketing metrics in order to gauge the preferences of the people and help evaluate the strength and weaknesses in its strategies to improve its business performance.

Russian revolution Papers Assignement Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Russian revolution Papers Assignement - Essay Example Kaiser entitled, â€Å"The workers revolution in Russia, 1917†, the article â€Å"The rise and Fall of the soviet Union† by Laurie Stoff and the academic website, â€Å"Seventeen moments in Soviet History, primary and secondary sources covering 1917 through 1936†, the paper gives also greater insights into the advantages and disadvantages that came with the revolution. In the year 1917, the workers in Russia who were angry, hungry and tired of war carried out a revolution against the government of the then Tsar, Nicholas II 1. The revolution was fuelled by the antagonism of the lower class workers against the high class members of their society. Metalworkers involved in the revolution had radical perceptions in the struggle and called for the creation of a soviet power while the unskilled laborers in the country were fighting for better pays2. The revolution brought forth the birth of the communist state in the year 1922 that eventually collapsed in the early 199 0’s3. Before the formation of the communist state there were various other previous attempts to harmonize all the ethnic communities living within the country. The seizing of power after the revolution was done by the Bolsheviks. They empowered the poor and ethnic minorities with the power to rule the country along with the guaranteeing of greater women rights within their society4. The Bolsheviks also gave the people the opportunity to access universal education and self-improvement alternatives5. The ruling Bolsheviks have also been deemed responsible for the bloodiest crimes against the state that the world has witnessed6. Their crimes were committed through the imprisonments of their political rivals, nonconformist thinkers, the killing of many revolting people and the exiling of whole communities. In spite of all the bloody crimes that the Bolsheviks are responsible for instigating, their economic systems have been accredited with making the country the economic giant it currently is7. However, this was done at the expense of the citizens of the country who were greatly impoverished. The Bolsheviks had seized power from the Mensheviks who had gotten to power through their revolution in the month of February 1917 and created an interim government8. The seizing of power by the Bolsheviks took place in the month of October and was referred to as the Bolsheviks Revolution. The entry of the Bolsheviks into power saw the suppression of all politics along with beliefs that were not communist9. This is because the Bolsheviks claimed that they represented the voice of the workers in the country. In the years between 1917 to 1923, the country was involved in world war I and the Russian civilian war which pitted the Bolsheviks against the opposing white army along with foreign armies from France, the US and the UK (United Kingdom). The Bolsheviks won the civil war and rapidly established itself while spreading its policies throughout the rest of the country10 . The Bolsheviks fought under the leadership of Vladimir Lenin who passed away in the year 1924 only to be succeeded by Joseph Stalin who carried the leadership of the country to the 1950’s11. Previous reports indicate that the country had suffered from famine and a collapse of the economy during the Tsar’s regime in the World War I period12. The communist republic of Russia fought against the Polish Republic whose leader wanted

The Automated Teller Machines

The Automated Teller Machines Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) have gained prominence as a delivery channel for banking transactions in India. Banks have been deploying ATMs to increase their reach. As at the end of December 2007 as per the RBI circular, the number of ATMs deployed in India was 32,342. More people are now moving towards using the automated teller machines (ATM) for their banking needs. According to a survey by Banknet India, 95% people now prefer this modern channel to traditional mode of banking. Almost 60% people use an ATM at least once a week. Increased ATM usage is also helped by the fact that customers have now the flexibility of using ATMs of other banks, as most of the banks are part of major interbank networks like National Financial Switch (NFS), Mitr, BANCS, Cashtree and Cashnet. The interbank networks have brought together ATMs of several banks so that consumers would gain access to any of the participating banks ATMs. Banks find it cheaper to pay membership fees to these networks as against setting up additional units in expensive-to-deploy areas. ATMs are now seen to be more than mere cash dispensing machines. Customers use ATMs to recharge their mobile phone pre-paid connections, pay their utility bills, even mutual fund transactions making them at par with flexibility given in internet banking only more secure. Of the value-added services provided at ATMs, bill-payment is the most used service, followed by prepaid mobile talk-time recharges. However, still about one third of the respondents do not use any value added services at ATMs. The ATM market in India is not yet saturated. Though the concentration of ATMs is greater in metros, the demand is increasing for other cities and even rural areas. ATMs per million people approximately is 33 units is very low. Experts forecast that the growth rate (CAGR) is expected to grow 18 percent up by 2013. Banks going into a self service model can have huge saving potential for banks and may also increase the convenience for the customers. Following is a representative trend taking into account the growth in the number of ATMs in three of the largest Indian banks: ATM Supply Chain Network Activities Following are the major activities carried out as part of the ATM supply chain or in supporting the ATM services of a bank Maintenance Activities Site Telecommunication Link Cash Refilling ATM Monitoring Handling Customer Complaints Reconciliation of Cash And Interbank Transactions Following is a sample ATM Supply chain network: Bank Head Office ATM Vendors Outsourced Agent Bank Branch 1 Bank Branch 2 ATM As can be seen from the network above, the major participants in the ATM supply chain network are: ATM Vendors If the bank ATM and the related IT infrastructure is outsourced then; the ATM infrastructure is operated and maintained by the ATM vendors for a fees. It provides the advantages of cost efficiency and scalability for the banks Outsourced Delivery agents They are the ones who supply cash to the ATMs. They either have a Vault Cash account where the vendors themselves maintain some cash balance or they have an Overdraft Account with the Bank itself, which gets debited after each withdrawal and credited after the deposit at the ATM. Bank Branches These are the Bank branches in-charge of the various ATMs in a particular area Bank Head Office This is the main office branch of a bank in a particular city or district ATM supply chain IT infrastructure ATM Infrastructure Information flow Delivery Channel Coordinator Switch Network Outsourced Delivery Agents Card Issuers Server ATM Information flow for cash withdrawal and for Credit Cards Information flow for cash replenishment MIS Info ATM It interfaces with the switch network to exchange cash withdrawal, cash replenishment and credit card information Outsourced Delivery Agents They receive information from the delivery channel coordinators to replenish the ATM cash Delivery channel coordinator They receive cash replenishment and MIS information from the switching network. There is always more than one ATM under each Delivery channel coordinator to take advantage of the economies of scale. Also, the channel ordination can be either manually managed or automated. Switch Network The switch server authenticates the user, as well as exchanges cash replenishment related information with the individual ATMs Card Issuers Server The banks host server interacts with the switch network to obtain card withdrawal and credit card information while at the same authenticating the credit card transaction from the Card Issuers Server Delivery Channels Delivery channels are medium for information transmission or cash transmission in a banking context. They are also known as touch-points, which deliver service to the end-user in his convenience. The primary medium of touch-point was the brick-mortal form of banking. However as time passed, and information technology proliferated banks were able to extend the touch-points to various other forms such as: Automated Teller Machines (ATM) Point of Sale (POS) Mobile Banking Internet Banking The delivery channel innovation was started by private banks foreign banks after the 1991 reforms when many banks were allowed to carry out operations in India. Advantages of Delivery Channels Deliver channels provide the following benefits to users Easy access 247 availability Security, Reduced transaction costs Options of access per convenience Acceptance Implementation Old generation banks with little or marginal systems have acceptance issues with the disruptive technologies of internet. The acceptance issue also comes with many of the old generation customers who believe in losing the personal touch of banking. Implementation issues center around the following: Centralization of Data Multiple technologies for different systems Security issues (Customer end/Banking end) Multiple interface for different channels Synchronization of information across channels Currency Distribution Banks need to maintain a certain level of cash in order to service its daily withdrawals. There is an entire supply-chain in place which helps in ensuring the same. Below is a diagram of how money travels from the press to the various banks ATM Presses/Mints Public Press-linked offices Currency Chest offices (Banks) An overview of the supply-chain of Banks The presses and mints where notes and coins are printed are under the RBI. The money from the mints and presses is moved daily to the 19 press-linked offices. These are sent to the nearby zonal currency-chest banks, essentially Banks which store current called as Chest offices. There are in all 4279 chests and 4040 coin depots. Functions of the Chest office Fulfills the requirement of peoples funds Withdrawal and acceptance of unfit notes Payments to Governments Operates with minimum balance at all times Each day the records are maintained for the issue/acceptance of currency. It also has to maintain the asset-liability position in cash management. Currency in Circulation Just as a manufacturing supply chain deals with product varieties also known as SKUs, the currency supply chain also has its SKUs through various denominations. The shift towards higher denominations was observed since the wide-usage of ATMs. Various steps were also taken to phase out Rs .5/- notes and replacing with coins for many such low denominations Source:RBI Docs, Currency Management, Section VIII, Dt. 27/08/2009 Clean-Note Policy To ensure the life of currency notes, RBI issued a directive to all bank offices to cease the stapling of notes and instead band them and the soiled notes be returned to RBI. But devalued stapled notes were still lying with banks. IT systems were used to create a Currency Verification Processing (CVP) system. This categorized notes into Fit, Unfit, Reject and Suspect categories. A Citizens charter was also issued providing guidelines on how to identify soiled notes and steps to be taken to return to RBI. However due to implementation issues kept the proportion of soiled notes in circulation from 15.9 million pieces (2002-03) to 10.9 million (2008-09). Logistics Distribution Challenges Each bank generally arranges for personal logistics service with police protection. Security vans are used for short-distances and train for longer distances. The extent and size of the country poses a significant problem in meeting need for currency at various pockets in India. Following are some of the issues faced in distribution Security availability of railway wagons Political boundaries that inefficiently defining jurisdiction of Issue offices which lead to suboptimal logistic services Moving currency across touch-points an exercise that is avoidable is generally carried out Private security is not desirable and police cant be dedicated for this exercise Various existing distribution systems of milk-cooperatives, post-offices, coin-dispenser mechanisms and a directive to issue bulk users with a certain proportion of coins was made. Supply Challenges With 4 printing presses, supply after 1999 was not a problem, but the pace of notes replacement made quality of notes deteriorate. Since the notes that were returned came unsorted there were inefficiencies in understanding the outflow of currency from system. In order to develop capacities to free-up vault space in banks various measures like shredding systems in all offices were setup. Demand-forecasting among banks Banks carry out demand-forecasting using statistical analysis using long-term historical demands to calculate forecasts. These aim to serve the following needs: Incremental needs As and when money is needed by RBI, the presses supply Replacement needs Money is needed to replace specific notes, which are soiled or disfigured Reserve needs Emergency requirements to fulfil reserve requirements by banks Technology in Currency Operations With such a vast network of banks, the Reserve Bank established Integrated Computerized Currency Operations and Management Systems (ICCOMS) which helped in error-free reporting and accounting of chest-level transactions. Security in distribution and ATM Security is increasingly becoming more significant in network environment with the emergence of the internetworking technology. The internetworking technology can act as or provide the communication channels across networks so that machines in different networks can talk to each other. But such kind of technologies like ATM is exposed to all kinds of attacks in such an accessible environment. Most of the network technologies, without integrating with security mechanism originally, are being redesigned to provide some security services. ATMs attempts to be secure by keeping the customers personal identification number (PIN) and other information safe by using encryption software such as Triple DES (Data Encryption Standard) Threats to ATM networks Like other such networks, ATM networks suffer a lot of threats like eavesdropping, spoofing, service denial, VC stealing and traffic analysis etc. And VC stealing and traffic analysis happen only in ATM networks. Eavesdropping Eavesdropping refers to the threat that the attacker connects or taps into the transmission media and gain an unauthorized access to the data. It is one of the most common attacks to the network. Service Denial ATM technology is a connection-oriented technique managed by a set of signals. By sending some anti-signals frequently, the attacker can disturb the communication between user A and user B to a great extent which can disable the Quality of Service(QoS) in ATM. Combining this technique with other tricks like eavesdropping, the attacker can even completely block one user from another. Stealing of VCs If two switches in an ATM network compromise, the attacker can even steal a VC from another user. Some argue that possibility of compromising of the switches is quite low but that is true only if the ATM network is owned by one organization. But this is not the case today since in ATM internetworking, in which case cells travel through different ATM networks, it becomes very easy for two switches to compromise. Traffic Analysis Its a kind of threat in which a hacker can get information by collecting and analyzing the information (not the actual content of communication) like the timing, volume and about the parties communicating through a Virtual Circuit. Encryption effects only the content and not the timing and volume of the communication. So gaining access to even these can reveal a great deal of information to an attacker. Generally this attack doesnt happen but can happen when ATM is used in a highly stringent and securitised environment. Major requirements/functions of an ATM security system User Identity Verification: The system should have the facility to establish and verify the identity of all the users and players in an ATM network. Controlled Access and Authorization: The system should ensure that any player without authority to gain access to some information or resources should not be able to access it. Protection of Confidentiality: Every data that is stored or used in communication should be kept classified. Protection of Data Integrity: Guarantee regarding the integrity of the stored communicated data should be given by the Security system. Strong Accountability: The system should ensure that No entity is able to deny the responsibility of its any of the actions or efforts carried out by her. Activities Logging: The security system should support the capability to retrieve information about security activities in the Network Elements with the possibility of tracing this information to individuals or entities. Alarm reporting: Provision of generation of alarm notifications regarding certain selective events related to security. Audit: Provision of analysing of data logged into the system in case of any security violation so that required measures can be used and checks can be installed. Security Recovery: Provisions of recovery from successful or attempted security violations. Security Management: Proper management of the security services required as a part of above requirements. Suppliers of cash main source: Central bank The most important requirement of an ATM is one major motive behind the technology i.e. making money easily available to the customers. Traditionally there have been a number of suppliers of cash starting from unorganised money lenders in the past to the modern banks today. A bank is a financial intermediary that accepts deposits and gives loans to customers using those deposits. Can be commercial or retail banking or the money can be lend either directly to the customer or also through the use of markets. Banking channels Apart from their branches, bank offers many different channels to access their banking and other services. Among these, few channels help the customers in carrying out transactions without the involvement of real cash. These are E- Mail, Telephone, Call banking, Mobile and Video banking etc. In addition to all these channels, banks provide a source of real cash called ATM through a machine that dispenses cash and sometimes takes deposits without the need for a human representative from bank side. Major source of money: Central Bank A central bank is a banking institution with an exclusive privilege to lend to its government. It behaves both as a normal commercial bank wherein it charges interest on the loans made to borrowers, majorly the government of the country the bank exists for and also as a lender of last resort wherein it lends to the banks when situation is not too good or as a part of the statutory requirements. But Central bank has a monopoly on creating the currency of that nation and it is the kind of bank that can lend money to other banks in times of need. It is the major source of money in a market and acts as the regulator of money supply too. Security in Distribution on and ATM Security is increasingly becoming more significant in network environment with the emergence of the internetworking technology. The internetworking technology can act as or provide the communication channels across networks so that machines in different networks can talk to each other. But such kind of technologies like ATM is exposed to all kinds of attacks in such an accessible environment. Most of the network technologies, without integrating with security mechanism originally, are being redesigned to provide some security services. ATMs attempts to be secure by keeping the customers personal identification number (PIN) and other information safe by using encryption software such as Triple DES (Data Encryption Standard) Major requirements/functions of an ATM security system User Identity Verification: The system should have the facility to establish and verify the identity of all the users and players in an ATM network. Controlled Access and Authorization: The system should ensure that any player without authority to gain access to some information or resources should not be able to access it. Protection of Confidentiality: Every data that is stored or used in communication should be kept classified. Protection of Data Integrity: Guarantee regarding the integrity of the stored communicated data should be given by the Security system. Strong Accountability: The system should ensure that No entity is able to deny the responsibility of its any of the actions or efforts carried out by her. Activities Logging: The security system should support the capability to retrieve information about security activities in the Network Elements with the possibility of tracing this information to individuals or entities. Alarm reporting: Provision of generation of alarm notifications regarding certain selective events related to security. Audit: Provision of analysing of data logged into the system in case of any security violation so that required measures can be used and checks can be installed. Security Recovery: Provisions of recovery from successful or attempted security violations. Security Management: Proper management of the security services required as a part of above requirements. Suppliers of cash main source: Central bank The most important requirement of an ATM is one major motive behind the technology i.e. making money easily available to the customers. Traditionally there have been a number of suppliers of cash starting from unorganised money lenders in the past to the modern banks today. A bank is a financial intermediary that accepts deposits and gives loans to customers using those deposits. Can be commercial or retail banking or the money can be lend either directly to the customer or also through the use of markets. Banking channels Apart from their branches, bank offers many different channels to access their banking and other services. Among these, few channels help the customers in carrying out transactions without the involvement of real cash. These are E- Mail, Telephone, Call banking, Mobile and Video banking etc. In addition to all these channels, banks provide a source of real cash called ATM through a machine that dispenses cash and sometimes takes deposits without the need for a human representative from bank side. Major source of money: Central Bank A central bank is a banking institution with an exclusive privilege to lend to its government. It behaves both as a normal commercial bank wherein it charges interest on the loans made to borrowers, majorly the government of the country the bank exists for and also as a lender of last resort wherein it lends to the banks when situation is not too good or as a part of the statutory requirements. But Central bank has a monopoly on creating the currency of that nation and it is the kind of bank that can lend money to other banks in times of need. It is the major source of money in a market and acts as the regulator of money supply too. nation and it is the kind of bank that can lend money to other banks in times of need. It is the major source of money in a market and acts as the regulator of money supply too. Demand Projections for ATMs Most ATMs are connected to international bank networks, enabling people to withdraw and deposit money from machines not belonging to the bank or country where they have their account. Serving the ATMs network is a costly task: it takes employees time to supervise the network and make decisions about cash management and it involves high operating costs (financial, transport, handling, insurance etc.). As interest rate rises and greater operating efficiencies become paramount. Some banks typically maintain as much as 40% more cash at their ATMs than whats needed, even though many experts consider cash excess of 15% to 20% to be sufficient. Cash related costs represent about 35-60 % of the overall costs of running an ATM. Through currency management optimization, banks can avoid falling into the trap of maintaining too much cash and begin to profit by mobilizing idle cash. Effective currency management and control starts with an automated solution that uses advanced algorithms to accura tely predict currency supply and demand, allowing banks to forecast demand and pro-actively manage currency throughout their network. Transportation and servicing cost increase can be substantial for banks. To achieve the lowest cost of distribution based on accurate supply and demand forecasting and optimization procedures is critical for a bank to lower its operational expenses and improve the return on its cash assets. What is expected of a forecast model of the ATM network is that it simulates historical demand by using data from actual cash-in transactions and cash-out transactions. The historical demand model is overlaid with additional factors, such as paydays, holidays, and seasonal demand in a specific area. Analytical models are aligned with the experience of resources that have intimate knowledge of the banks daily operations and are used to determine the optimum cash amount for each ATM by calculating the transport and money upload costs against interest rates. Cash drawings are subject to trends and generally follow weekly, monthly and annual cycles. An appropriate model for a bank and its branches or ATMs should estimate optimal amount of stocked money plus efficiently manage and control day-to-day cash handling, transportation with reducing of currency transportation and servicing costs. The system should be flexible enough to allow the bank to reforecast future demand, perform WHAT IF analyses, and optimize the network as the cash distribution environment evolves. Cash demand forecast for every ATM is based on linear regression models with seasonality coefficients. The development of such models is relatively complicated and differs for various ATM. Therefore preparation of forecasting models for whole ATM network is difficult task for owners of machines. The parameters of forecasting models are determined in the system implementation stage and are held constant during the operation phase. However, business environment changes continually in real world and, therefore, the model parameters must be also adapted to the changing environment. A recent paper on the optimization techniques proposes the use of artificial neural networks combined with existing what-if analysis tools and simulation modelling procedures. This advanced method will handle the drawbacks of simple regression models but will be more accurate in projecting the demand. Off-late a few advanced software packages developed by traditional financial network giants like Visa are also available that provide powerful cash management facility. Publicly available data regarding these software packages suggest that they also use multi-regression models for prediction purposes. Network optimization models for cash distribution to various ATMs are also important to reduce the costs across the supply chain. In the first instance, it can be very valuable to coordinate cash uploading and service procedures while visiting the ATM network. Coordinated route planning for maintenance of various ATMs could also reduce the ATM networks management costs significantly. Issues in Currency Identification Counterfeit currency notes is one of the biggest problems that are currently plaguing the cash distribution network. A lot of people suffer from this while withdrawing cash from an ATM when they inadvertently receive a fake note in a bundle of proper bills. It is difficult to prove accountability in case of such an incident and fix blame. Of the 48,963 million pieces of currency in circulation in 2009 398,111 pieces were found to be counterfeit. RBI has come with a set of recommendations to be implemented across the distribution network that forms the supply chain of cash distribution to check counterfeit, maintain quality of notes in circulation, strengthening of security systems and procedures and fixing accountability in case of human error. These recommendations are as given below: (A) Measures for facilitating detection of counterfeit notes and maintaining quality of notes in circulation (i) Note Sorting Machines (NSMs) / Desktop Sorters may be installed in all bank branches in a phased manner for early detection of counterfeit notes. (ii) Banks may ensure the quality of the notes fed in ATMs. They may conduct periodic audit of the agents used for outsourcing this activity viz. the CIT companies. Banks may switch over to the cassette swap system for feeding the ATMs. New ATMs installed may be provided with in built note detectors. Over a period existing ATMs may also be required to have in built note detectors. (iii) Performance parameters of NSMs may be standardized by RBI to ensure that all NSMs installed adhere to the laid down standards for detection of counterfeit notes. (iv) RBI may ensure that the plan for withdrawal of notes of old series is implemented strictly as formulated and that the new series of banknotes with more robust security features be introduced as early as possible. RBI may also facilitate R and D efforts for development of new security features. (v) Where any person inadvertently in possession of counterfeit notes upto five (5) pieces tenders the same at a bank counter, the requirement of filing FIR may be done away with. A simple report may be filed with the branch which in turn may include this in the Counterfeit Currency Report (CCR) to FIU-IND / RBI. (vi) RBI may review the system of incentives and disincentives for detection and disclosure of counterfeit notes while assisting the enforcement agencies in dealing appropriately with those involved in making and distribution of counterfeit notes. (B) Measures relating to cash holding and distribution (vii) RBI may stipulate suitable cash holding limits for all currency chests beyond which the cash should necessarily be moved to a chest with larger limits or to RBI. (viii) Each RBI office may undertake a review of the requirement of currency chests in their jurisdiction based on the volume and nature of transactions, accessibility of the chest and other factors including security so as to rationalize the number of chests and upgrade the facilities thereat for better security and efficiency. (ix) To tap advantages arising out of economies of scale, minimize overnight cash risks at bank branches and to benefit from sophisticated logistics techniques banks may be encouraged to establish Currency Processing Centres, which should be permitted to charge other banks for processing services. (x) As NSMs have to be installed at all branches for sorting notes before dispensation, banks will have to make necessary investments. The cost of such investments will need to be recovered from the bulk tenderers of cash. Banks may put in place a transparent policy for such charges of cash handling/processing with the approval of their respective boards as already advised by RBI vide its DBOD directive DIR.BC.86 / 13.10.00 dated September 7, 1999. (xi) RBI may take initiatives in promoting use of cards and electronic means of payment. (C) Measures for strengthening security systems and procedures (xii) RBI may explore enlisting the services of a specialized and dedicated force / other approved agencies to provide security at chests and for movement of treasure. (xiii) RBI may explore upgradation of the security systems in currency chests and RBI vaults incorporating electronic bio-metric access, electronic locking of bins, and surveillance through Closed Circuit Television (CCTVs). Networking of CCTVs at chests within the jurisdiction of a controlling office of the bank may be explored for better surveillance. (xiv) Tamper-proof shrink wrapping of soiled notes with bar coding of details of the branch remitting them may be introduced. (xv) A system of quarterly security audit of currency chest branches by controlling offices may be introduced. Comprehensive guideline / format may be prepared by RBI /IBA. (xvi) A system of risk based inspection of currency chests may be introduced by banks / RBI taking into account various parameters for evaluating the extent of risk. (xvii) Banks may draw up a contingency plan / disaster management plan in consultation with local police. (xviii) RBI may explore the possibility of introducing a defacing system of self inking / marking of banknotes in transit or in chests, which would automatically trigger-in if there is an attack / attempted robbery/ theft etc. (D) HR Measures (xix) Banks may modify their transfer pricing policy or equivalent policy so as to pass on the benefit on account of having a currency chest to the branch where the chest is maintained. (xx) Rotation of staff posted at currency chests may be ensured to prevent vested interest and entrenched non adherence of laid down systems and procedures. (xxi) Where deviations and irregularities are found, controlling offices may take immediate punitive action after fixing accountability. (xxii) Bank may accord recognition to currency handling operations as a sensitive and skilled activity and provide necessary incentives and training. A. Dis

Psychodynamic Theory Founded By Sigmund Freud Psychology Essay

Psychodynamic Theory Founded By Sigmund Freud Psychology Essay The following essay will analyse the Psychodynamic theory founded by Sigmund Freud. It will focus on the components of the mind including the Conscious, the pre-conscious proper and the Unconscious. It will then examine his contribution into the structure of Personality with reference to The Id, Ego and Super-ego. Following this, the essay will discuss Freuds proposal of stages within his psychosexual development. The essay will then focus on the Humanistic theory of Carl Rogers. It will explain his concept of the Actualizing tendency and incorporate his creations of Self concept, the Organismic self and the Ideal self. As a contribution to Rogers work, the essay will also highlight the Hierarchy of needs by Abraham Maslow. The two theories will then be compared and contrasted. This essay will focus on the human developmental stage of childhood. According to Freud there are three levels of Consciousness within the mind. The conscious, this holds thoughts and feelings that we are fully aware of at any one time, it can be verbalised and logically thought about. The pre-conscious proper holds memories that only when they are thought of can they be brought back into the Conscious part of the mind. Information is easily shared between the conscious and the pre-conscious proper. Finally the Unconscious. Material here is deemed too painful and is repressed (locked away) yet still has the strength to influence our actions. We have conscious thoughts that we are aware of and unconscious thoughts that appear in our mind in the form of dreams. Moreover, what happens in our conscious mind in turn influences what thoughts filter through to our unconscious mind (Gross, The Science of Mind and Behaviour, 2010) (Ingleby, 2006, p. 7) Freud related this idea to a model of an Iceberg. The tip acts as 10% relating to the Conscious as only this is visible, the rest being submerged acting as the Pre-conscious and the Unconscious. (Kazlev, 2004) Freud furthered his concept of personality of which he proposed was devised into the Id or intrinsic drive, the Ego and the Superego The Id obeys the pleasure principle. It holds no morals and seeks instant gratification containing mostly sexual or aggressive impulses. a cauldron full of seething excitations†¦it is filled with energy †¦ but†¦ has no organisation†¦ only a striving to bring about the satisfaction of instinctional needs subject to observance of the pleasure principle (Freud, New introductory lectures in psychoanalysis, 1933, p. 73)Within the id lies the Eros (life or pleasure drive) and Thanatos (death instincts). Eros helps the child to survive, it directs life-sustaining activities such as respiration, eating, sex and the fulfilment of other bodily needs In contrast Freud believed Destructive acts such as arson, fist fights, murder, war and even masochism were outward expressions of the death instincts (R.Shaffer, 1946, p. 43) The Ego Acts as the mediator between the Id and the super-ego. It is the rational part of the mind. It is governed by the reality principle. Freud Created defence mechanisms in an attempt to protect the ego from constant threat from the super-ego. These include Repression meaning re-directing negative thoughts to the Unconscious . As well as Projection this being the shifting of blame or thoughts and feelings onto someone or something less intimidating. The idea of psychological defence itself was not problematic; it was a normal operation of the human mind faced with unpleasant events. But normal defence did not generally lead to total forgetting: though usually absent from consciousness, unpleasant memories could be recalled by fresh perceptions. (Freud, The origins of Psychoanalysis, 1954) The super-ego acts as the negative parent. This is learned from others and seen as the internalisation of social morals. It criticises decisions made by the ego and makes negative judgments. (Freud, The origins of Psychoanalysis, 1954) (Gross, Psychology- The Science and Mind of Behaviour, 2010) According to Freud, sexuality is apparent in babies from birth allowing sexual pleasure and frustration. The progression of the Psychosexual stages depends on the biological maturity but is influenced greatly by how individuals are treated, most importantly by their parents. If excessive frustration or gratification occurs during a stage, the individual will remain fixated. (Gross, The Science of Mind and Behaviour, 2010) The Oral stage (0-1year) Sensitive nerve endings in the mouth and lips allow the baby to gain pleasure from Sucking and swallowing. Disturbances throughout this stage will lead to Oral fixation such as thumb sucking or over-eating The Anal stage (1-3years) Muscles of the bowel are the source of pleasure. Whilst potty training, the parents love becomes dependent on the childs actions. The child is in control of where and when it defecates. The Phallic stage (3-5/6 years) introduces a new source of pleasure in the genitalia. The child focuses on their opposite-sex parent. In males the Oedipus conflict suggests a young boy gains sexual feelings for his mother. In females the Penis envy or Electra complex suggests sexual feelings for the father in which time she is jealous of the mother. a tragedy of destiny. Its tragic effect is said to lie in the contrast between the supreme will of the gods and the vain attempts of mankind to escape the evil that threatens themIt is the fate of all of us, perhaps, to direct our first sexual impulse towards our mother and our first hatred and our first murderous wish against our father. (Freud, The interpretation of Dreams., 1900) The Latency Period (5/6 to puberty) involves the decline of sexual instincts. The traumas of the phallic stage are repressed thus allowing social skills to develop. Finally, the Genital stage. The earlier sexual thoughts have been repressed; however the focus on the genitalia returns, enabling the control of the Id and its heterosexual demands. (Gross, Psychology- The science of Mind and Behaviour, 2010) The Humanistic approach founded by Carl Rogers was a direct reaction to behaviourism and psychoanalysis, with the idea that both theories related more to the testing and the treatment rather than the perceptions/interpretations of the individuals external stimuli. (Gross, The science of the Mind and Behaviour, 2010) In accordance to this, Rogers created the Person Centred theory. Thus being a theory based more on the client and their potential for personal growth. He adopts a holistic approach, considering all aspects of the individual and external stimuli. He stipulates an individuals equilibrium is based upon being congruent; However outside influences can cause incongruence (an unbalance in one self). not from the point of view of simply accepting the standard view of science as postulated in myriad academic texts, but rather of creating a newer view of science as a human endeavour which calls on the whole person rather than just on the intellect (Rowan, 2001, p. 291) Rogers believed each living being had the ability to develop and reach their maximum potential. This introduced The Actualising Tendency. Rogers developed this idea whilst observing a bin of potatoes stored in the basement during his childhood. In the unfavourable conditions the potatoes began to sprout, desperately reaching toward the light from a small window. Thus giving the example that regardless of the conditions, everyone and everything can strive to self actualise. the mainspring of life it is the urge which is evident in all organic and human life- to expand, extend, become autonomous ,develop and mature (Rogers, 1961, p. 193) Rogers put forward his concept of personality, categorised into The self concept, The Organismic self and the Ideal self. The self concept, described as how we perceive ourselves and the environment. This is acquired through childhood and can reflect on the care given during such time. The Organismic self is who we truly are with the ability to act how we please once free from judgement and social conformities. The Ideal self is in continuation with the self concept. It is something we desperately want but will never achieve as once the goal is reached a new one is created. the organized consistent conceptual gestalt composed of perceptions of the characteristics of I or me and the perceptions of the relationships of the I or me to others and to various aspects of life, together with the values attached to these perceptions. It is a gestalt which is available to awareness though not necessarily in awareness. It is a fluid and changing gestalt, a process, but at any given moment it is a specific entity (Rogers C. , 1959) (Gross, Psychology- The science of Mind and Behaviour, 2010) any given moment it is a specific entity.at any given moment it is a specific entity.the organized consistent conceptual gestalt composed of perceptions of the characteristics of I or me and the perceptions of the relationships of the I or me to others and to various aspects of lifethe organized consistent conceptual gestalt composed of perceptions of the characteristics of I or me and the perceptions of the relationships of the I or me to others and to various aspects of life, together with the values attached to these perceptions. It is a gestalt which is available to awareness though not necessarily in awareness. It is a fluid and changing gestalt, a process, but at any given moment it is a specific entity. In conjunction with Rogers, Abraham Maslow introduced the Hierarchy of Needs. He devised a model in the shape of a pyramid into stages of human development. Before progressing to a higher level, the previous needs to be fully attained, beginning with the foundation which includes basic Physiological needs such as food, oxygen and sex. Other levels include safety needs, love and belongingness, Esteem needs, cognitive needs, aesthetic needs and finally Self actualization, this being the ultimate an individual can become. However it can only be gained through experience rather than the prominent biology found in the lower levels. (Gross, Psychology- The Science and Mind of Behaviour, 2010) With regards to similarities between Freuds Psychoanalysis and Rogers Humanistic Approach both theorists include a division of personality. Freuds Id can be compared to Rogers Organismic self in the sense that the Organismic self is who we truly are, this however is contained once in public, much like the Id of which the desires are controlled by the Ego, both related to the true self and what it desires. Much like Freuds Ego, Rogers Self Concept is logical and the part of personality both shaped by external stimuli built from childhood. The Eros Within Freuds concept of the Id is similar to Rogers Self Actualising Tendency for the reason that the Eros directs life sustaining activities enabling us to progress and develop to fulfil our life potential. Both are male perspectives and may be biased, most noticeable in Freuds concept of Penis envy, implying that not having a penis makes women feel inferior. In relation to the differences, Freuds idea of the development of personality includes psychosexual stages, these directly relate to childhood and uses specific ages throughout, whereas Rogers disregards age as an importance and focuses primarily on the individual in a holistic manor. Rogerss concept of Self Actualization relates to all living beings from humans to potatoes; however Freud only concerns himself with humans. Freud believes babies are born with bad psychic energy in order to satisfy basic needs referring to them as a Seething cauldron. However Rogers expressed the process of becoming a fully functioning person meaning how they become is all that is relevant. This essay has identified key aspects of both Freuds Psychodynamic theory into personality and also Carl Rogers Humanistic theory. It Focused on Freuds perception of the Mind including the conscious, the pre-conscious proper and the Unconscious. As well as his structure if personality broken into the Id, the Ego and the Super-ego and finally the stages into his conception of the Psychosexual stages. The essay then focused on Carl Rogers Humanistic theory, explaining The Actualising Tendency, the three Selfs and also briefly highlighted the work of Maslow as a continuation to Rogers theory. Whilst focusing on Childhood it finished by emphasising the similarities and differences within the two theories. However it may be prominent to believe the events of its first years are paramount importance for its whole subsequent life. (Freud, An Outline of Psychoanalysis., 1949, p. 283)

Healthy Grief Essay

The Book of Job is a profound story about a man who was â€Å"perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed evil† (Job 1:1). Job was a man who had a loving family, prospered and was very wealthy. For whatever reason, Satan challenged God regarding Job. Satan told God that if everything were taken away from Job, he would surely curse God. It was a â€Å"bet† of sorts. So God gave Satan the power to destroy everything Job had with the exception of Job’s life. Satan took away Job’s possessions, family and health. Unbelievably, even after all his loss, Job still fell to the ground and worshipped God. Job 1:2-20) The trials and hardships that Job suffered were inconceivable, yet Job seemed to persevere and demonstrate resilience beyond what is human. What made the difference? Was it his faith? This paper will discuss the five stages of the Kubler-Ross grieving process. It will examine the successful example of Job’s own grieving process as it relates to the Baha’i faith. The Five stages of Kubler-Ross can be seen throughout the story of Job. According to Kubler-Ross (2013), the grieving process is comprised of five formal stages: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and finally acceptance. The first stage, denial, actually enables the person to initially endure an incredible loss. While it may seem counterintuitive, denial is actually a critical aspect of the healthy healing process. It is comparable to entering a stage of shock. The act of denial actually is a protective mechanism that helps a person cope with the overwhelming situations. (Kubler-Ross & Kessler 2013) One could interpret Job’s statement, â€Å"Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away†(Job 1:21) as a form of denial. Others may interpret it as his unwavering faith in God’s plan. Anger is the next stage, and is absolutely essential to the grieving process. Job is seen voicing his anger, â€Å"Therefore I will not restrain my mouth, I will speak in the anguish of my spirit; I will complain in the bitterness of my soul. † (Job 7:11) Pain is the emotion most closely related to and buried under anger. So, in essence, the pain drives anger and anger drives change. As it relates to the grieving process, anger instigates a form of strength and can provide the backbone and structure necessary to move on to the next stage. Kubler-Ross & Kessler 2013) Although Job voices his anger it isn’t directed to God but rather the situation. Bargaining in the third stage and is the stage of negotiating. In their mind, a person will remain in the past, and try anything to return to the way things were before. (Kubler-Ross & Kessler 2013) At first glance, it appears Job doesn’t ever go through the bargaining stage, he clearly expresses his sadness. He continues to praise and worship God in spite of the losses he is going through. However, one can observe how he clearly wishes he could return to the way things were before. He is wise in heart, and mighty in strength, who hath hardened himself against him, and hath prospered. † (Job 9:4) But his sorrow could certainly be seen as a type of bargaining with God to relieve his sorrow. The fourth stage is depression, the stage where one will experience feelings of emptiness and hopelessness. Some people worry that their feelings of despair will last forever. Yet this stage is part of the natural order of loss, and a critical component of the five stages. When someone is depressed they become withdrawn. They sometimes question whether or not they should go on themselves. The depression stage is part of the natural healing process and is a necessary step one must experience in order to heal. (Kubler-Ross & Kessler 2013) Job reveals his own deep depression he says, â€Å"My days are swifter than a weaver’s shuttle, and are spent without hope. â€Å"(Job 7:6) â€Å"Let that day perish wherein I was born, and the night in which it was said. † (Job 3:3) and continues to question why he survived birth and should probably never have been conceived. (Job 3:3-11). Job is feeling hopeless and is becoming depressed. He also feels his problems are ith no end in sight, and he is experiencing the thoughts of giving up. Acceptance of his trials is evident in Job 13: 15-16 â€Å"Through he slay me, yet will I trust in him, He also will be my salvation. † Job accepts that God is wise and puts his trust in him. This stage is about the acceptance of a new reality; people change, learn and develop empathy from their grief to move on. Acknowledging the pain and moving on doesn’t mean the past is forgotten, rather it enables the person to move forward with an open heart and a broader perspective. Job didn’t fully understand the purpose of his trials, but he accepted the omnipotence of his God. His faith sustained him just as faith sustains people today. Job’s faith is similar to that of the Baha’i faith. Those of the Baha’i faith believe that the body, mind, and spirit grow when they are tried by suffering. Trails or tests are viewed as a gift from God. Those who have these tests and persevere will have happiness while those who don’t are cowards. They are asked to turn to God and pray when enduring these tests and be thankful. Grief and sorrow do not come to us by chance, they are sent to us by the Divine Mercy for our own perfecting† (Baha’i International Community 2013). Job persevered and believed there was a reason to why God was putting him through these trials. Studies have shown that those who attend church, pray, and actively practice their faith actually suffer less depression and resolve their grief sooner than those with little or no faith at all. (Quick, 2012) Clearly, there appears to be a correlation between spiritual beliefs or faith, and the ability to handle stress and accept tragedies in a more positive way. Healthcare providers, counselors, and clergy have all recognized that having a faith to cling to or a greater belief in life after death can ease the grieving process. In conclusion, having a belief in a greater power and life after death can make dealing with loss much easier. When a person has something to cling to, it can make dealing with trauma or loss more manageable. If there was no belief in life after death or no belief in a greater power, life’s tragedies would be far more difficult to deal with. It’s actually healthy to cultivate a belief in something. Like Job, we will all experience some type of loss in our lives. Grief is a common thread to each and every person on the planet. Identifying the stages of grief, and having the resources and skills to cope with grief is crucial for handling grief in a healthy way. Everyone experiences the stages of grief. The difference seems to be faith. People who have a deep sense of faith are better equipped and more quickly navigate the stages of grief. As with Job, their faith allows them to go forward and successfully help others through the grieving process.