The Rain Came by Grace Ogot

The title of the story is The Rain Came by Grace Ogot. The author of the story is Grace Ogot or also known as Grace Emily Akinyi. She was born on 15 May 1930, near Kisumu, central Nyanza Region in Kenya. In achievement, she became the first African woman writer in English who published fiction by the East African Publishing House. Her stories such as Land Without Thunder (1968), The Other Woman (1976), and The Island of Tears (1980) provides the traditional Luo life.Most of her fiction stories are according with the customs, history and traditions of the Luo tribe in Kenya, which has the second largest ethnic group. The Luo tribe lived for most part near Lake Victoria. Her formal writing reflects the addition of her formal learning with the traditions in her life. All her collections of writings reflect her personal love towards the stories of her culture. Grace Ogot passed away in April 2010.Character AnalysisThe main character or the primary character is Oganda which means â€Å"b eans† due to her very fair skin. She is the chief’s only daughter around at the tender age to married and also the protagonist in this story. She is a very traditional and great woman where she willing to sacrificed herself so that the Luo will have rain.She also loves to imagine her future where she imagined which man should be the best man to married. Oganda is very disappointed on her people which they willing to give her up to sacrifice. Lastly, she also a person who easily to give up where she never fight for her life to run away or hide herself but choose to accept the fact that she is the chosen one and ready to be sacrifice.The supporting character would be Labong’O. He is the chief of Luo. He has 5 wives and 20 children, among all Oganda is his daughter. He is the bravest man and a great leader of the village. He always holds his promise to the village where he promised would sacrifice himself or his family for the sake of the tribe. Other than that, he is also a loving father and loves his daughter very much but he could not bear the risk to safe Oganda.Another minor character would be Minya which is the chief’s fifth wife and Oganda mother. She is a loving mother where she is not willing to sacrifice her only daughter. Grandmother has a characteristic of a protective grandmother where she protect Oganda by not allow her to leave her hut and listen to the truth that she have to be the  sacrifice.Furthermore, Oganda lover which is Osinda, he is a very brave man and would will to do anything to save her lover. In the story, Osinda went into the sacred land to save Oganda and take care of her until she wakes up from the faint. Kech is son of a neighboring clan elder. He is a very handsome guy with sweet meek eyes and roaring laugh but he is too short for Oganda. Dimo, a tall young man which is brave and a great wrestler but he is too cruel where always quarreling and ready to fight.The selfish one would be the villager, frie nds and relatives where they are so happy that the chief’s daughter have to sacrifice to have rain. They are also very naà ¯ve, traditional and believes in animism where they believes sacrifice would bring them torrent of rain. Another supporting character is the little child which is very naà ¯ve. The little child broke the silent and gives the earring to Oganda before she enters the sacred land. Lastly, Ndithi, the witch man and Podho is the ancestor of Luo.Setting (Place, Time, Atmosphere, Social Condition)The setting of place is in Kenya, near the Lake of Victoria. The time is drought season, where everyone in the village is anxiously waiting to hear when it will rain. Besides that, all their cattle are dying in the fields as there is no water. The atmosphere of the story is very anxious, tensed and confused. In paragraph 2, ‘ the atmosphere in the village was tense and confused’. The social condition is people believing in tribal law where they believe in their ancestors as gods.The chief of tribe believes whatever the ancestors of Luo told him and sacrifices of his daughter is a must to the lake monster in order to have rain. In paragraph 7, ‘Let her offer herself a sacrifice to the lake monster! On that day, the rain will come down in torrents. Let everyone stay at home on that day, lest he be carried away by the floods.’ In paragraph 9, ‘but he continued, ‘the ancestors have chosen her as a sacrifice to the lake monster in order to that we may have rain’PlotThe plot applied the Freytag pyramid where in the exposition start when the chief come back from the witch man house and was told that his only daughter will be the sacrifice where his heart is totally doomed but no any other choices but sacrifice her daughter to the lake monster. Rising action is  when Labong’O declared that Oganda will be the sacrifice. Oganda feels very sad and the villager prepared a big feast for her before she went on the journey to the Victoria Lake.The climax of story is when Oganda goes to the lake and she is very terrified as she thinks that she has been followed by the Lake Monster and run, finally fainted. In the falling action, Osinda appears and comes to save Oganda and the resolution is the thunder come and the rain came. ThemePeople generally are very selfish.The theme of the story is sacrifice for the benefits of others. Oganda is selected to die for the villager’s benefit in which they will have rain. When one person is being sacrifice to the lake monsters, everyone in the village will have rain and they will survive form drought. The cattle will also not die.Another theme is the family ties. In the story, the Chief, his wife and their daughter has the strong bonding of love and care for each other. Labong’o loves his daughter so much that he weeps as he knows that she is going to be sacrificed to the lake monster for the villagers. His wife also faints when hears th e news of their daughter being sacrificed.Moreover, the belief in customs, traditions of the tribe is also one of the themes. In this story, the villagers of Kenya believe their ancestor as their gods and will pray for the ancestors for help. They believe that when a person, Oganda is to be sacrificed to the lake monster, rain will come.Point of viewIt is a third person omniscient point of view. When something happened to the character, the readers can actually feel and sense the feeling and emotion of each character because they have been told in detail while they are needed through the story. The readers know what the character thinks and feel. In the story, the reader can feels the sad and depressed emotion of Minya, Labong’o, Oganda and her grandmother. Besides that, we can feel the happiness of villagers when they dance joyfully after knowing that Oganda will be a sacrifice for the lake monster and they will have rain soon.SymbolismIn paragraph 16, ‘they have been like three cooking stones’ which represents  the relationship between the parents and daughter. In paragraph 7, ‘a young woman who has not known a man’ represents a virgin. ConclusionThe story ends in a good ending in which Oganda is not being sacrificed and can run away together with her love ones, Osinda. Besides that, the rain came in the end. The story affects us in the responsibility and the strong beliefs in customs and traditions. In the story, although the chief has dearly loved his only daughter very much but he takes his responsibility as the head of the Luo tribe to obey their ancestors and sacrifice the daughter to the lake monster for rain.I have learnt to be a responsible person and be strong like the chief in all obstacles in life. He takes his responsibility as a chief to bring benefits to his villagers. He has undergone a huge pain in which he has to offer up her daughter as sacrifices for the whole village’s needs, which is the rain. He puts his tribe as priority before everything else as a leader and representative. We should have personality like the chief which is responsible as a leader and head. It brings you as a liable and trustworthy person. Besides that, we can see the strength of the villagers in following their customs and traditions.The Luo (a tribe in Northern Kenya and Uganda) believes in their ancestor as gods. It is even stronger when they turn to their ancestors for help when in time of great needs. In paragraph 2, ‘The chief had prayed daily to the almighty through the ancestors to deliver them from their distresses. The highest priority in their life is to obey and pleasing the gods (lake monster) and ancestors.It strikes us that the villages are following their customs and unlike most of the society nowadays that they do not follow their traditions and have neglected it. The family ties are very strong in this story. We can see it from the love and care of the three family members, who ar e Oganda ( the daughter), Labong’o ( the father) and Minya ( the mother).Three of them love each other in which the father and mother are very depressed and sad when they know that their daughter’s life is at stake. In paragraph 4, ‘ Labong’o did not care anymore. He assumed the position of a simple father and wept bitterly’. In paragraph 16, ‘for a long time the three souls who loved on another dearly sat in darkness. It was not good speaking. In the past, they had been like three cooking stones, sharing their burdens.’ This shows that they are as one in spirit and their bonding is very strong. From this, we learn the importance of family love and being as one.

Selling Class Assignment

In this case, Margaret Sprunger is handling the sales rep Jenner is accused of passing confidential information. Firstly, Margaret should take further investigation on this case. She should investigate clearly that did Jenner pass the confidential information to Orthopedics. After the investigation, if she finds out that he really pass the confidential information to Orthopedics, the company can fire Jenner. It is illegal for any staff to participate in trading on the confidential information. And this case should send a memo to the whole company.This shows the employees that passing confidential information to others is a serious issue and can remind them the consequence of doing this If Margaret didn’t have any evidence to proof Jenner is convicted, she should explain to Bob Heckman about this issue. And also need to explain to Jenner the whole issue. Jenner may be upset by this issue and loss morale. The company should motivate Jenner. After that, the company should take so me action to minimize the possibility of sales rep to leak some confidential information to others. This is related to the ethical and legal responsibilities of the staff.The first thing is to set up the code of ethics in the company. A code of ethics  is a written ethical guideline to let the employees to follow. Having a code of ethics can show that the organization cares about whether its employees behave in an ethical manner. The company is responsible for establishing, communicating, and enforcing the ethical standards they expect their salespeople to follow. They should provide some training for them to understand the code of ethics as they may not know how to follow the ethical standard in some situation.In the training lessons, they will face some ethical dilemma, this gives them a guideline to handle it when they face in the selling process. Besides that, sales managers must ensure that their salespeople are aware of their legal responsibilities. They must provide trainin g with regard to their legal responsibilities. This can prevent them to do some illegal things. Sometimes they may not even know they are committing crime and don’t know the seriousness of some action like passing confidential information to others. The company should update them with the most recent court case and the enactment of laws.

The Black Panther Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The Black Panther - Essay Example However, time and events have impacted the American Dream as well as the nature of people that have believed in it. During the last several decades, the transforming nature of the American Dream has demonstrated the development of the American character, which has left many analysts and observes quite mystified, worried and at times utterly annoyed (Blanc, 2003). However, principally the American Dream is said to be deeply ingrained in a utopian conviction relative to the world’s perfectibility, which for all practical purposes could just be present in the eye of the beholder. But in the context of the American psyche, worldly imperfection ought to be removed and rectified by adopting measures through individual and collective actions. American citizens have developed a reputation for reacting quickly, spotting deficiencies and are known to make efforts in finding the right options in order to endeavor to endlessly strive towards achieving perfection. However, critics argue th at the American Dream has remained a myth for working class Blacks in America, at much higher levels as compared to working class whites. A major proportion of the Black population is characterized with suffering from poverty and low pay, which is evident from the fact that a large percentage of Blacks are still classified as poor. Unemployment amongst Blacks is double as compared to whites and they stand twice the number of chances of dying early from diseases and crime at every stage in life. It was in view of these circumstances that the Black Panther Party for Self Defense became very powerful and popular during the 1950s and 1960s and embodied the highest level in terms of the large scale rebellions that swept across the US during this period, against the prevalence of poverty and racism. It can be said that the extent and severity of poverty and racism presently experienced by Blacks in America is not much different from what it was during the 1950s and 1960s. It is also true that the numbers of affluent people amongst Blacks have increased significantly and there is now a Black minority that has also entered the elite class in US society. The ruling parties during the 1950s and 1960s had acted in response to the revolts during the 1950s and 1960s by taking conscious decisions of developing the Black middle classes in order to prevent the revolutionary movement from escalating further. More essentially, the move was to develop a realistic adaptation of the American Dream for Blacks in America. In fact, the Second World War had impacted the civil rights movement in America during this period. The large numbers of Black soldiers who had fought in favor of American imperialist policies were surprised at the hypocrisy surrounding the war propaganda. On the one side American capitalists fought to remove racism practiced by the Nazis and on the other hand there was cruel racism being practiced in their own country. Moreover, the economic prosperity in America implied that larger numbers of Blacks were relocating to cities and becoming part of the working class. By the year 1970, almost 75 percent of the Black population in America was living in cities, and in view of their large majority their confidence

Disorders of Red Cells Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Disorders of Red Cells - Case Study Example It is quite clear that the patient is anemic. Usual signs and symptoms of anemia are lower hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, and reduced blood cell count causing fatigue, shortness of breath, hypotension, dizziness, headaches, and irritability. The condition eventually leads to tachycardia (the heart rate exceeding normal range) and tachypnea (breathing rate over 20) in due course of time. The hematocrit indicates about the volume of red blood cells in proportion to the total blood volume (total of plasma and red blood cells) and for women, it has to be between 36 and 48% (Eckman, 2013). The laboratory reading of the patients hematocrit has been shown 32% that is certainly less than the normal level. Moreover, the patients blood smear test reveals microcytic and hypochromic cells in her blood. This gives an indication of Microcytic Hypochromic Anemia in the patient. Usually, iron deficiency is the cause of hypochromic microcytic anemia. Microcytic Hypochromic anemia results when "a r educed amount of iron is delivered to the marrow erythroid precursors" (Eckman, 2013). Usually, efficient recycling of iron or a good balance maintained between losses and absorption keeps iron deficiency in control. It is estimated that a menstruating female loses approximately 2.0 mg of iron per day (Eckman, 2013). Ms. A’s age is 26 years and being in menstruating age, her iron losses are likely to be around 2.0 mg of iron per day. Her intake of iron appears to be not adequate enough to maintain losses or otherwise, the underlying cause of low hemoglobin lies somewhere else. Ms. As reticulocyte count (immature blood cells) makes up a higher percentage of the blood count and that appears to be due to low hemoglobin in red blood cells. A reticulocyte count is a blood test that reveals how fast bone marrow makes and releases red blood cells into the  blood.  

How Globalisation Affect Our Economic System Essay

How Globalisation Affect Our Economic System - Essay Example Hence globalization cannot be abandoned for sure, but a multidimensional approach might help in dealing with the economic problems associated with globalization. Due to the enhancement of the technology and globalization, the countries are able to increase the production basket in their economy. In addition to these, the benefits that have been reaped from it are improved consumption choices, employment opportunities, and enhanced lifestyle patterns. (Thorsby, 2001, pp 155-156) However, a more analytical view may be provided regarding the effect of globalization on the economy. To support this analysis the paper has focused on extensive secondary research and two primary sources. The basic advantages that globalization brings in are the improvement in the labor forces, the efficient structuring of organizations and the exchanges that take place between workers from various cultures. Since labor forces are the human resources and sometimes the intellectual capital of the organization we need to assess its impact on the organization as a whole. Globalisation has caused workers to associate with other workers across vast geographical distances. In addition to these the constantly changing needs of consumers across the globe is a big issue. Organizations have to utilize their human resources in a meaningful way to get the optimum productivity and efficiency. Only this will enhance the competitive advantage of an organization in the dynamic global market. In relation to this, the socio-demography plays a very important role. People who belong from different communities do have certain mannerisms. Language and culture also play a very vital role in it. All the thre e elements (labor force, organization and social demography) are correlated to one other. The absence of any one of them can prove to be fatal for each.  

SWOT Conversion Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

SWOT Conversion - Essay Example They thus provide impetus for strategic changes within the managerial and marketing processes for improved performance. As Marketing Manager of Tesco Plc, I would be evaluating the SWOT analysis tools of Tesco against that of its competitor, IKEA, UK, in its furniture segment. Overview of Tesco Tesco Plc. is one of largest global supermarket chains with workforce of 472000 strong people in more than 4811 outlets across 14 countries (tesco, 2010). As a leading food and non food supermarket, it has created a niche market position in UK and across the globe. Its non food segment, especially the furniture segment directly competes with IKEA which is a leading home furniture retailer with a global presence. Though a relatively recent entrant into this area, Tesco has been able to make significant inroad into this market and compete with the market giant like IKEA through sustained efforts to diversification based on changing preferences of people. Tesco strength lies in its strategic plan ning that has effectively relied on marketing tools like SWOT and Porter’s five force analysis to gain leverage against its competitors in the field. Critical analysis of SWOT theory vis-a-vis IKEA SWOT analysis IKEA’s major strength is its global brand with emphasis on sustainable business practice and cost consciousness. It extensively uses renewable materials through design innovation, reducing wastage and promoting environment conservation in its supply chain management. Tesco, on the other hand has long since been a promoter of sustainable development and has continuously strived for highly indigenous techniques for carbon footprints. It has increasingly introduced organic food and non food item in its ever widening product lines. It is committed to carbon neutral policy by 2050 and diligently helps its customers to considerably reduce their carbon footprints by 2020 (ibid). Tesco has also been a leader in providing its customers with quality products at very comp etitive prices. Tesco’s Clubcard is testament of its huge database of satisfied and committed clientele which boasts of over fifteen million active members! Clubcard is a unique way of rewarding its customers through discounts vouchers and reward points. It has in fact become one of major elements of competitive advantage against IKEA. The IKEA’s KPI or key performance indicator broadly relies on its IWAY process for defining its social and environmental compulsions for its products and its various supply chain partners. Tesco has formulated stringent guidelines under ETI or ethical trading initiatives that promote sustainable practices across all its business partners. IKEA’s design initiatives for its furniture and furnishing, is highly creative. NORDEN and LACK tables, OGLA chairs etc are exemplary examples of waste management. It has also refined its transportation logistics to reduce carbon footprints. TESCO’s ergonomically designed state of the art furniture are cost effective but it nevertheless needs to improve its waste management policies on production through more creative inputs. Not many of its items are made from waste but introduction of products made from paper mache has increasingly become popular amongst the masses. Tesco believes in forging alliances with local

The Big dig Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The Big dig - Essay Example o leave a gift for my future relatives in a form of buried treasure, I decided to choose such a gift for them which will not only give a solution to their financial worries but will also give them a spiritual and emotional fulfillment in life. The item that I have chosen to bury is a book called â€Å"The One Minute Guide To Prosperity And Enlightenment† by Sri Siva. This book is available on amazon.com. The price of the brand new book is $11.14. Looking at the price, one might think that the book is not of much value and hence, has lower price compared to the popular blockbuster novels, which are usually priced above $15. However, the price of this book has nothing to do with its value. This book is valuable not because of its entertainment element but because of the treasure of knowledge hidden in every word of this book. The price of the book should be ignored and the value should be understood. I was aware that 200 years from now, one of my relatives is going to dig the place which is my backyard now and as a token of love and blessing, I wanted to bury a gift which should be of immense value even at the time it is going to be found. I chose the book â€Å"The One Minute Guide To Prosperity And Enlightenment† by Sri Siva to bury in my backyard (â€Å"The One Minute .†, n.d.). This book has all the qualities that I was looking for in the gift that I wanted to leave for my future relatives. The reasons for which I chose this book as a gift are as follows: When I was given an opportunity to bury a special gift for my future relatives, I was very excited and tense at the same time. I have realized that wealth is not the only solution to financial problems. For example, doing a business or a job that does not give you pleasure leads to unhappiness. If a person does a job not because he likes it but only because that particular job pays well and takes care of the material desires, then doing that job leads to unhappiness. What is necessary is the wealth that comes

Forthcoming Enlargement of European Union Essay

Forthcoming Enlargement of European Union - Essay Example As the experience of enlargements demonstrates what was beneficial for one members put the others in front of challenges. As 2007 will obviously be the time for Black-sea basin countries to join the Union, their joining will have the profound effects on Mediterranean basin as a whole, particularly on Greece, Italy, Spain and Portugal that are already EU members (Dauderstdt, 2003). The Mediterranean region has always been one of the most specific and vulnerable areas on the planet (Lannon and Maresceau, 2001). Being the cradle of world civilization, Mediterranean countries, particularly Middle East and Northern African states (East and South Mediterranean), have also been the homes for world's major problems associated with terrorism, migration, drug and human trafficking and crimes. Also these countries are out of this research analysis, their factor need to be included while assessing specificity of the region and effects EU forthcoming enlargement may have on the EU-Mediterranean members. Additionally, the Balkan states also sharing Mediterranean basin and remaining one of the most problematic "hot spots" in Europe can not be underestimated (Aydin, 2004). With concern of the role of Mediterranean basin in the global politics EU has a specific program for the region (The EU's Mediterranean & Middle East Policy, 2005) In this project I will evaluate... I will provide the all-round analysis of effects of EU enlargement on existing member-states which includes political, socio-economic, and other angles. General effects on EU enlargement on current Mediterranean member-states The challenge of Eastern European states preparing to join the EU for current members is historic not only because it will enlarge the boarders of the Union but primarily because it will align two different types of cultures. Historically Europe has never been homogeneous; the most common understanding implies coexistence of at least two different "Europes", i.e.: Western and Eastern Europe (Dauderstdt, 2003). The watershed between "two Europes" is historical, cultural, economical, political, yet, mental. Most conventionally they are contrasted as catholic and protestant vs. orthodox countries, capitalist states vs. former communist entities, and democracies vs. totalitarian states. Turkey is an exception here as its major difference from the rest of the Europe is religions and mentality-related (Lannon and Maresceau, 2001). In the recent decade the EU will be joined by a group of countries which are dramatically different from the rest of the Europe (Welfens, 2004). However hereinafter I will directly address two countries for which the integration into EU seems to be the most probable, i.e.: Romania and Bulgaria. I will indicate specially when other countries (Turkey and Croatia) will be included in research analysis Both states, as mentioned before, are located in the eastern Mediterranean (Black-sea) basin; they both are orthodox Christian states that represent the former Soviet camp. In a word, they are

Ecology and the Environment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Ecology and the Environment - Essay Example The rise in temperature also contributed to the melting of glaciers, increase in floods and hurricanes. Plants and trees are much important in retaining the temperature of the earth by consuming carbon dioxide to make food for them. If the number of plants and trees lessens, there will be an in increase in the carbon footprints as conceived by the current carbon foot print ratio. A research on the forests shows that the forests remained only coving the 6% of the earth and the research notifies that the 6% of the land of forests will last for 40 years if the current forest cut down rate is considered (Rain-tree.com 2010). Local and surrounding ecology and environment Canada is a wealthy country in terms of having various types of ecosystems like forest ecosystem, mountainous ecosystem, arctic ecosystem and grassland eco system, while the forests of the region contribute heavily to the 6% portion of forests with temperate as well as boreal forests (Natural Resources Canada 2009). Canad a is linked with the three major parts of the world by oceans. The climate of the regions is supports the forests and forests retains a healthy climate in the region. Forests not only contribute in making the country’s atmosphere better but share in the country’s economy also. ... Mountainous ecosystem is important in retaining the water and releasing it to use after treating the water. Human activities and ecology The human activities as agricultures and other such related activities are supported by the forests as it provides water and other naturally healthy land for the agriculture. In the response, such human activities became a big trouble for the forests and the habitat. As the inorganic fertilizers and pesticides utilized by the farmers are not well accepted by the forests habitat. The water that is utilized for the forests became poisonous by the chemical fertilizers and pesticides and other such chemical compounds. The urban environment is now a biggest threat for the forests, as the urban environment contributes much in producing green house gases emissions. However, as the country has in total 0.2% urban areas, the pollution and green house gasses form the other regions of the world mainly the surrounding regions influences the forests. Water and a ir pollution affects not only a single habitat of the earth but it affects the whole food chain (Environment Canada 2010). Global warming and ecosystem Due to the legitimate policies considering the forests, the process of cutting down the forests is slowed and it influenced the reduction in the harmful fumes from the factories and vehicles that are endangering the humans and other habitat of the vicinity (Health Canada 2006). In a research that is conducted to verify the level of toxic fumes showed that the presence of hundred and sixty chemical toxics in the region. The toxic chemicals are so much influencing the human habitat that about five thousand children die before even they are born in the region of Ontario. Due to the

As an ecologically concerned engineer or anthropologist, critically Essay

As an ecologically concerned engineer or anthropologist, critically assess the current Japanese nuclear disaster using academica - Essay Example The Fukushima Daiichi facility was apparently unable to withstand the dual shocks of the earthquake and tsunami within a short timeframe and entered into a situation which can be described as nuclear meltdown of the reactors. The information about the Fukushima disaster was initially limited and possibly misrepresented by TEPCO and Japanese government administrators in order to downplay publicly the degree of seriousness of the situation, and this has led to difficulties in academic or public verification of the ecological and social threats that the meltdown portends for Japan. It is not overestimating the situation to state that in the worst instance a significant portion of Japan could have become uninhabitable due to the disaster, and currently there is an evacuation zone in effect around the facility. This essay will examine the ongoing nature of the Fukushima Disaster, highlighting the fact that the facility may still not have been properly brought under control and the degree of uncertainty that exists because of this in determining the over-all consequences of the event. The Fukushima Nuclear Disaster There is now little doubt that a full nuclear meltdown occurred at the Fukushima nuclear plant in Japan this year. According to Julian Ryall in an article published in the Telegraph as "Nuclear meltdown at Fukushima plant" (12 May 2011), â€Å"Engineers from the Tokyo Electric Power company (Tepco) entered the No.1 reactor at the end of last week for the first time and saw the top five feet or so of the core's 13ft-long fuel rods had been exposed to the air and melted down. Previously, Tepco believed that the core of the reactor was submerged in enough water to keep it stable and that only 55 per cent of the core had been damaged. Now the company is worried that the molten pool of radioactive fuel may have burned a hole through the bottom of the containment vessel, causing water to leak. ’We will have to revise our plans,’ said Junichi Matsu moto, a spokesman for Tepco. ‘We cannot deny the possibility that a hole in the pressure vessel caused water to leak’. Tepco has not clarified what other barriers there are to stop radioactive fuel leaking if the steel containment vessel has been breached. Greenpeace said the situation could escalate rapidly if ‘the lava melts through the vessel’.† (2011: p.1) One of the problems with the design of the Fukushima plant is that it had been storing depleted nuclear fuel rods on the same site as the reactor, cooled with water. After becoming exposed, this fuel may have added to the critical mass of the meltdown reaction and also caused additional radiation to be released into the environment during the initial period of the disaster. The additional force of this reaction may have been sufficient to burn or melt through the very bottom containment layer of the reactor itself, the final protection layer that prevents a meltdown lava flow from entering the l ocal environmental system through the earth and water systems. The use of sea water to flood and cool the reactor following the meltdown has inevitably led to groundwater radiation being released into

A Personal Take on the Debate Between Rationalism and Empiricism.Doc Essay Example for Free

A Personal Take on the Debate Between Rationalism and Empiricism.Doc Essay The study of knowledge, or epistemology, contains theoretical methods by which information is learned. Of these methods, two are most widely accepted. These two methods, rationalism and empiricism, are also the most widely debated methods of knowledge acquisition. Rationalism claims that knowledge is gained by a priori processes and intuition. Rationalism claims that knowledge is innate; however the level of innate knowledge contained by humans varies amongst rationalists. At the other end of the spectrum, empiricism claims that knowledge is gained largely by experience, observation, and sensory perception. These views pose a striking contrast and controversy within the theory of knowledge. Which view is correct, or is there even a correct view? As rationalism and empiricism are studied and compared, it becomes evident that empiricism is the more correct theory of the acquisition of knowledge. However, in order to believe so, there must be a differentiation between knowledge and behavior. According to the empirical scientific process, bodily behavior and function is rationalist. That is, it occurs without humans first learning how to breathe and pump blood with their heart. Knowledge however, refers to The British philosopher John Locke is credited with formulating the complete modern doctrine of empiricism. Locke proposed that, upon entrance into the world, the mind is a white paper upon which experiences leave their marks. According to Locke in his Essay Concerning Human Understanding the predominant sources of ideas and knowledge are sensation and reflection. It seems that after receiving knowledge empirically, the human mind resorts to reflecting on the information. This reflection could ultimately lead to the internalization of knowledge, therefore making it seem innate upon recall of the information. Scottish philosopher David Humes thoughts and theories regarding empiricism are the basis of what is understood as empiricism today. Humes studies on empiricism took empiricist ideas to a whole new level. Hume divided all of knowledge into two categories: relations of ideas and matters of fact. Relations of ideas encompass logical propositions such as mathematics and geometry, while matters of fact are pieces of knowledge dependent on observation. Hume goes even further in saying that ideas, commonly understood as arising from human intuition (rationalism), are empiricist. According to Hume, ideas are merely remembrances of impressions or sensations gained by experience and observation. Humes ideas here are not unreasonable. While ideas can be new or innovative they generally do build upon the knowledge already possessed by experience. For example, the iPod was a new idea; however the idea itself was a remembrance of previous portable music devices such as the Walkman or Discman. In effect, Hume seems to be saying that new ideas are simply improvements made to existing ideas gained through impressions and sensations. While rationalism and empiricism are generally recognized as opposing views, it is important to remember that they are not mutually exclusive when understood in a general sense. However, when a philosopher is looking for the fundamental source of all knowledge, then one view must be discarded in favor of another. By separating human knowledge from human body function, it is reasonable to conclude that all human knowledge and ideas are gained empirically and through experience.

Present and future of glaxosmithkline pakistan

Present and future of glaxosmithkline pakistan We have a challenging and inspiring mission: to improve the quality of human life by enabling people to do more, feel better and live longer. This mission gives us the purpose to develop innovative medicines and products that help millions of people around the world. We are one of the few pharmaceutical companies researching both medicines and vaccines for the World Health Organizations three priority diseases HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria, and are very proud to have developed some of the leading global medicines in these fields. Headquartered in the UK and with operations based in the US, we are one of the industry leaders, with an estimated seven per cent of the worlds pharmaceutical market. But being a leader brings responsibility. This means that we care about the impact that we have on the people and places touched by our mission to improve health around the world. It also means that we must help developing countries where debilitating disease affects millions of people and access to life-changing medicines and vaccines is a problem. To meet this challenge, we are committed to providing discounted medicines where they are needed the most. As a company with a firm foundation in science, we have a flair for research and a track record of turning that research into powerful, marketable drugs. Every hour we spend more than  £300,000 (US$562,000) to find new medicines. We produce medicines that treat major disease areas such as asthma, virus control, infections, mental health, diabetes and digestive conditions. In addition, we are a leader in the important area of vaccines and are developing new treatments for cancer. KEY FACTS ABOUT GSK Every second We distribute more than 35 doses of vaccine Every minute More than 1,100 prescriptions are written for GSK products Every hour We spend more than  £300,000 (US$562,000) to find new medicines Every day More than 200 million people around the world use a GSK brand toothbrush or toothpaste Every year Our factories produce 9 billion Tums tablets, 6 billion Panadol tablets and 600 million tubes of toothpaste PAKISTAN OVERVIEW GlaxoSmithKline Pakistan Limited was created on January 1st 2002 through the merger of SmithKline and French of Pakistan Limited, Beecham Pakistan (Private) Limited and Glaxo Wellcome (Pakistan) Limited- standing today as the largest pharmaceutical company in Pakistan As a leading international pharmaceutical company we make a real difference to global healthcare and specifically to the developing world. We believe this is both an ethical imperative and key to business success. Companies that respond sensitively and with commitment by changing their business practices to address such challenges will be the leaders of the future. GSK Pakistan operates mainly in two industry segments: Pharmaceuticals (prescription drugs and vaccines) and consumer healthcare (over-the-counter- medicines, oral care and nutritional care). GSK leads the industry in value, volume and prescription market shares. We are proud of our consistency and stability in sales, profits and growth. Some of our key brands include Augmentin, Panadol, Seretide, Betnovate, Zantac and Calpol in medicine and renowned consumer healthcare brands include Horlicks, Aquafresh, Macleans and ENO. In addition, GSK is deeply involved with our communities and undertake various Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives including working with the National Commission for Human Development (NCHD) for whom we were one of the largest corporate donors. We consider it our responsibility to nurture the environment we operate in and persevere to extend our support to our community in every possible way. GSK participates in year round charitable activities which include organizing medical camps, supporting welfare organizations and donating to/sponsoring various developmental concerns and hospitals. Furthermore, GSK maintains strong partnerships with non-government organizations such as Concern for Children, which is also extremely involved in the design, implementation and replication of models for the sustainable development of children with specific emphasis on primary healthcare and education. GSK PAKISTAN UK (HQ) CEO M. SALMAN TECHNICAL DIRECTOR DR. MUZAFFAR IQBAL DIRECTOR MEDICAL SERVICES DR. ATIF MIRZA DIRECTOR MARKETING AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENTMS. ERUM DIRECTOR FINANCE, IT, AND LOGISTICS DR. JAWED HEAD OF HR AND OD MS. FARIHA DIRECTOR SALES MR. PERVAIZ, MR. MAQBOOL DIRECTOR LEGAL AND REGULATORY AFFAIRS MR. SHAHID MUSTAFA QURESHI HEAD OF QUALITY MR. Z.U KHAN HEAD OF PROCUREMENT MR. HAJI MUHAMMAD HANIF DOTTED LINE REPORTING: Quality Assurance, procurement and HR reports to technical director Muzaffar Iqbal. SOLID LINE REPORTING: Quality Assurance, procurement and HR reports to UK. MERGER AND ACQUISITIONS OF GLAXO COMPANY: In 1957 Glaxo started working in Pakistan.than in 1996 glaxo merged with Wellcome and became GlaxoWellcome.in year 2002 Wellcome acquired SmithKline French and beecham and company became GlaxoSmithKline.2 months back GSK has acquired the branded generics business of Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS) in Lebanon, Jordan, Syria, Libya and Yemen and also acquired Sirtris pharmaceuticals. PRODUCTS Leading products: à ¢Ã¢â€ž ¢Ã‚ ¦ Augmentin  Ã‚     Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€ž ¢Ã‚ ¦ Amoxil à ¢Ã¢â€ž ¢Ã‚ ¦ Panadol   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€ž ¢Ã‚ ¦ Ventolin à ¢Ã¢â€ž ¢Ã‚ ¦ Ampiclox   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   à ¢Ã¢â€ž ¢Ã‚ ¦ Betnovate à ¢Ã¢â€ž ¢Ã‚ ¦ Calpol  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   à ¢Ã¢â€ž ¢Ã‚ ¦ Zantac à ¢Ã¢â€ž ¢Ã‚ ¦ Septran Vaccines include: à ¢Ã¢â€ž ¢Ã‚ ¦ Engerix  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€ž ¢Ã‚ ¦ Typherix à ¢Ã¢â€ž ¢Ã‚ ¦ Infanrix  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€ž ¢Ã‚ ¦ Mencevax à ¢Ã¢â€ž ¢Ã‚ ¦ Fluarix  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€ž ¢Ã‚ ¦ Havrix à ¢Ã¢â€ž ¢Ã‚ ¦ Varilrix  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€ž ¢Ã‚ ¦ Hiberix à ¢Ã¢â€ž ¢Ã‚ ¦ Tritanrix  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â€ž ¢Ã‚ ¦ Priorix Tooth pastes include: Mcleans Sensodyne STAKEHOLDERS OF GSK: A stakeholder is best defined as a person, group or organization that has direct or indirect stake in an organization because it can affect or be affected by the organizations actions, objectives, and policies The major stakeholders include: Employees Communities Shareholders Investors Government Suppliers Labor Unions Government regulatory Agencies Industry Trade Groups NGOs Prospective employees Prospective customers Local communities Public (Community) Competitors The relationship they have with a wide range of other organizations is an important part of their business. GSK has a number of policies and initiatives that enable us to work effectively with these stakeholders. STAKEHOLDER CONFLICTS: GSK do not face conflicts with stakeholder but there are two operating units where conflicts usually arises they are: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Commercial unit à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Global manufacturing and supply Commercial unit includes sales and marketing whereas global manufacturing and supply includes engineering department and quality assurance. Sales department frequently demands more supply from the manufacturing department which is main problem between the two heads because often the demand is much higher while the employees are less. So at that time often the conflicts occur. Commercial unit is the one who directly faces the customers both the departments have to report separate heads. EVALUATION OF EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE: At GSK employee performance is evaluated at the end of the year. They develop a plan known as performance and development plan (PDP) in which each employee sets two objectives: Hard core objectives Soft core objectives Hard core objectives are the targets that the employee has to achieve till the end of the year. Soft core objectives are based on the 12 high performance behaviors. Outstanding achievements of employees in any of 12 High Performance Behaviors underpin the continual success as individuals and collectively as an organization.   High Performance Behaviors Information Search Creating Business Solutions Flexible Thinking Influence Building Confidence Communication Building Relationships Teamwork Developing People Enable Drive Change Continuous Improvement Customer Focus GSK Spirit provides employees with an opportunity to recognize or be recognized for outstanding achievement where Top Achievers can receive significant monetary awards for both individual and team achievements. For each role, in addition to relevant experience and qualifications, GSKA is looking for employees that can demonstrate the attributes of our High Performance Behaviors. Innovative Thinking Information search Creating business solutions Flexible thinking Collectively describes how to collect and share relevant information which helps GSK people to form new ideas and create innovative options whilst taking into account the complexity of the context in which we operate. It maximizes the chances of creating and sustaining increased performance for GSK. Achieving Excellence Enable and drive change Continuous improvement Customer focus Describes the ways in which continuously improved performance by keeping focused on ways of achieving GSKs goals and delighting the customers. This ability to deliver performance levels beyond expectations distinguishes us from competitors. Leading People Influence Building confidence Communication Describes how engaging and inspiring others to embrace the ideas by communicating effectively. It results in generation of shared and collective belief in GSKs future success. Engaging and developing others Building relationships Team work Developing people   Describes ways in which GSK can develop open, trusting and collaborative relationships with a diverse mix of people both across and outside GSK, and ensure that these relationships develop collective capability to perform better. Through engaging each other and truly working together we will grow and enrich GSKs potential. After developing the objectives each employee discusses it with the manager and after agreeing the plan is signed by the manager and the employee. Midyear review of the plan is also done to check whether the plan is going on the track. EMPLOYEE MOTIVATION: Rewards Recognition GSKs remuneration and reward programs are competitive with some of the best companies within and across our industry. Superior performance is recognized with both financial and non-financial rewards. Thanking people for a job well done is central to GSKs culture. Performance and reward GSK reward systems support high performance and help to attract and retain the best people. Performance-based pay and bonuses, share rewards and share options align employee interests with business targets. Compensation Benefits GSKA adopts a Total Compensation and Benefits approach in the design of its salary packaging model. This aim to provide: Optimum flexibility Choice; and Targeted incentive programs to provide us with the best opportunity to attract and retaining world class employees.   Bonus Plans are an integral component of the GlaxoSmithKline Total Compensation and Benefits Philosophy. A Long Term Incentive Scheme is offered to Senior Managers.   Employees are able to participate in the GlaxoSmithKline Australia Employee Share Plan on reaching the eligibility criteria. Employee Assistance Program GSK values the well being of its employees and, as a result, has made available an Employee Assistance Program to enhance well being, both personally and in the workplace. The Employee Assistance Program provides professional assistance and counseling for any work related or personal problems. The service is fully confidential and free of charge to employees and their immediate families.   Professional Development GSK recognizes that our people determine the success of the business and we are committed to developing this precious resource. Whatever your role, you will be supported through our Performance Development Planning process in your efforts to enhance your core capability, performance and ability. You will be assisted to achieve both your short and long term career goals through GSKA talent management initiatives. Training Development In order to reinforce the Performance Development Planning process GSK offers employees the opportunity to participate in a range of external and internal development courses as well as offering support for further Tertiary Education. Leadership Development Program   GSK Leaders set the tone for employees experience of GSK as being a place where they are truly valued. GSKA Leaders ensure the organizations business strategy and people practices are aligned with the GSK Mission, Strategic Intent and Spirit. This is achieved through the consistent application of our 12 High Performance Behaviors. Furthermore, a suite of high performance leadership development programs, including Foundations of Leadership has been developed to support all people management roles at GSK and will be linked to the recruitment and succession planning of future leaders. Talent Review The Talent Review process is a component of the GSK Performance Development Planning Program. It is one of GSKs Talent Management initiatives and consists of a series of workshops where GSK Leaders come together as a team to review and discuss their employees performance, development and career aspirations. CHALLENGES FACED BY GSK: The environment in which the Consumer Healthcare business operates has become ever more challenging: consumers are demanding better quality, better value and improved performance retailers have consolidated and globalised which has strengthened their negotiation power Cycle times for innovation have reduced. The pharmaceutical industry is experiencing a time of unprecedented challenge. Patent expiries, regulatory issues and increased pressures from healthcare providers have combined to create an environment where pharmaceutical sector is associated with lower growth and higher risk. KEY CHALLENGES The patents on many medicines that have driven sales growth in our industry over the past decade are coming to an end. These medicines may not be replaced by products of equivalent financial size. In addition, there are increasing pressures on pharmaceutical companies to deliver products with demonstrable benefits over current treatments. No longer do we merely have to discover and develop products that help people do more, feel better and live longer. We now have to justify that our products represent the greatest value for healthcare providers. At the same time, the pharmaceutical sector has been exposed to controversy regarding ethical and patient safety issues. As an industry, we are in danger of eroding what trust we already have when we actually need to be building stronger relationships with governments, regulators and the general public. These factors have combined to move the industry from one which was expected to deliver high growth at low risk, to the very opposite. These challenges are being tackled through three key strategic priorities that will transform GSK into a company that delivers more growth, less risk and an improved financial performance. Three strategic priorities In 2008, the following three strategic priorities were established: Grow a diversified global business Deliver more products of value Simplify the operating model These priorities will enable the organization to navigate the coming years successfully and retain the leading-edge position as a company able to meet patients and healthcare providers needs into the future. GROW A DIVERSIFIED GLOBAL BUSINESS GSK is reducing risk by broadening and balancing the portfolio, diversifying into new product areas that show potential, while also fully capturing opportunities for products across all geographic boundaries. Specifically, to generate future sales growth by strengthening core pharmaceuticals business and supplementing it with increased investment in growth areas such as vaccines, biopharmaceuticals and consumer healthcare. GSK is also seeking to unlock the geographic potential of the businesses, particularly in emerging markets and Japan. PLANS Drive growth in the pharmaceutical business in the core markets Deliver ambitious vaccines forecast Fulfill the potential of emerging markets Expand business Grow the Consumer Healthcare business DELIVER MORE PRODUCTS OF VALUE We are striving to build one of the strongest pipelines in the industry. We are transforming RD to ensure that we not only deliver the current pipeline but are also able to sustain a flow of new products for years to come. As we move towards a more diversified business we will concentrate on developing a higher volume of mid-size products for more clearly-defined patient populations. This will help develop a lower risk portfolio which is not dependent on the performance of one or two large products. Positive steps have already been taken, with 30 late-stage assets currently in our pharmaceuticals and vaccines pipeline. Our objective is to sustain this throughput of products over the long-term. PLANS Focus on the best science Diversify through externalization Re-personalize RD Focus on return on investment SIMPLIFY THE OPERATING MODEL GSK is a complex organization. We recognize that we need to simplify our operating model further, changing the way we work, removing unnecessary processes and structures which slow us down and distract us from our mission. Our global restructuring programme is a vital catalyst of our strategy. We believe it will radically change our business model giving us the capability to support a more diverse, growing business that is also expected to be more profitable in the long-term. PLANS Evolve the commercial model Re-shape manufacturing Streamline processes Reduce working capital For GSK brand pull is already present in the market as it is the #1 pharmaceutical company in the world. It is a most preferred company in terms of prescription by doctors and more than 1,100 prescriptions are written for GSK products every minute.GSK is preferred by doctors only because of their quality standards. GSK has a good quality management system. CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILTY: GSK is considered as one of the most active player in the corporate social responsibility. Some of the societal activities conducted by GSK are as follows Partnering with the National Commission for Human Development for Primary Healthcare Extension: GSK Pakistan has provided a grant of  £144,000 sterling (Rs.12.96 million) to the NCHD Primary Healthcare Extension Program making GSK the largest corporate donor to this cause. The purpose of this grant is to contribute at the grass root level towards healthcare improvement of the Pakistani people. The great thing about the primary healthcare extension program is that it will be implemented in the areas generally recognized as difficult to access, hence often neglected due to harsh terrain, high levels of illiteracy and confined social setups. Concern For Children Trust (CFC) The Concern For Children Trust (CFC) is a non profit, non government trust established in 1997. Their mission is to promote the health and welfare of the Children of Pakistan, paying special attention to preventive and primary healthcare, education, infrastructure, maintenance and support and to create general awareness about various child healthcare issues. The Trust is partially self-sustainable in that, its operational costs are covered by a Trust Fund. SmithKlineFrench to SmithKline and French of Pakistan Limited donated the initial seed money and now GSK Pakistan continues to be the major donor. International Programme for HIV Education Positive Action Programme It is estimated that more than 36 million adults and children are living with HIV/AIDS with approximately 15,000 more people being infected each day. Globally, more than 21 million people have died from AIDS, resulting in 13.2 million orphaned children. Positive Action is GSKs international programme of HIV education, care and community support. In this, GSK works in partnership with individuals, community groups, healthcare providers, international agencies and others to encourage HIV prevention as well as education, care and treatment of people living with, or affected by HIV/AIDS. Since its inception in 1992, positive action supported and implemented a wide variety of projects at both national and international levels throughout the world. EARTHQUAKE RELIEF: In this time of need and despair, GSK Pakistan was very quick to respond to the calamity affected areas with Rs. 20 million worth of antibiotics, analgesics and topical anti-bacterial supplies, delivered within 24 hours of the disaster having struck. Carefully selected emergency treatment packages were developed by the Crisis Management Team established, and a donation of up to 350,000 doses of Hepatitis A vaccine was given to health authorities to cope with the arising health concerns in the wake of the earthquake. This was all delivered within 24 hours of the disaster due to the urgent medical need. PROGRAMMES AND OPPORTUNITIES TO ENCOURAGE ACTIVE EMPLOYEE INVOLVEMENT: GSK encourages employees to become involved with deserving causes in their local communities around the globe.   GSK support their time and dedication with various internal programmes and opportunities to encourage active employee involvement. The PULSE Volunteer Partnership Programme is the newest corporate responsibility initiative. Starting in 2009, PULSE will empower GSKs high-performing employees to volunteer using their professional expertise, lasting for a period of three to six months. A PULSE volunteer will work full-time with one of our partner non-governmental organizations (NGO) to make a significant impact in impoverished communities around the world. With their skills and knowledge, PULSE volunteers will work to build positive, sustainable change within the NGOs programming and service delivery in developed and developing countries ORANGE Day, introduced globally in January 2009, has enabled thousands of employees to make a significant difference through engaging with their local community. Give as You Earn (GAYE), is a payroll giving scheme where an employee or pensioner can donate to any charitable organization in the UK, straight from their pay. APPROACH TOWARD SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY: PROACTIVE APPROACH: GSK has a proactive approach towards social responsibility. Managers at GSK actively participate and engage themselves in different social activities which include awareness regarding diseases, PULSE campaign, malaria, AIDS etc. ABOUT GSKs CORPORATE ETHICS AND COMPLIANCE PROGRAMME GSKs Corporate Ethics and Compliance Programme were established by the Board of Directors to support GSKs commitment to high standards of ethical conduct. The programme is under the direction of the Corporate Ethics and Compliance Officer, who reports to the Chief Executive Officer. Through the programme the Corporate Ethics and Compliance staff provides oversight and guidance to ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and company policies, and to foster a positive, ethical work environment for all employees. GSKs Code of Conduct is the foundation for all the company policies. It sets out the fundamental principles that the company values and that employees should apply in their daily work. Supporting the Code of Conduct policy is a range of corporate policies providing specific guidance in areas such as competition law, marketing practices, non-discrimination, share dealing, and conflicts of interest. GSKs employee guide to business conduct highlights the Code of Conduct, core compliance policies and provides guidance to employees. It is the responsibility of each employee to implement the code and follow the employee guide to sustain the trust and confidence of all GSK stakeholders. The six pages of code of conduct document clearly define the Purpose, scope, responsibilities, policies and communication of issues to all GSK employees. The policy covers the following function in GSK. Audit, Compliance, Quality Communications Govt. External Affairs Finance Global Procurement HR IT Legal Manufacturing Supply Marketing, Sales Support Medical Research / Development Supervisors Management Purpose The purpose of this document is to state GSKs Policy on the fundamental standards to be followed by GSK Staff in their everyday actions on behalf of the Company and to promote honest, legal and ethical conduct. Details relating to specific actions will be provided in the GSK Standards of Conduct. Scope This policy applies to all GSK Staff (includes employees, complementary workers, students and interns) world-wide, within all sectors, regions, areas and functions. GSK Staff must ensure this policy is followed by any contractors or other third-parties whom they engage. FORCES FROM SPECIFIC GENERAL ENVIRONMENT: SPECIFIC ENVIRONMENT COMPETITORS: GSK faces huge competition in Pakistan. It has many competitors that are affecting the sales if GSK. Competitors include Pfizer Johnson Johnson Bayer Abbott Novartis Competition from generic products generally occurs as patents in major markets expire. We believe that remaining competitive is dependent upon the discovery and development of new products, together with effective marketing of existing products. Within the pharmaceutical industry, the introduction of new products and processes by our competitors may affect pricing or result in changing patterns of product use. There is no assurance that products will not become outmoded, notwithstanding patent or trademark protection. In addition, increased government and other pressures for physicians and patients to use generic pharmaceuticals, rather than brand-name medicines, may increase competition for products that are no longer protected by patent. CUSTOMERS: The main customers of any pharmaceutical are the doctors. The brand name of GSK is so reliable that most of the doctors prefer only the GSKs product. GSK continuously spent money on RD so to satisfy the customers need. SUPPLIERS DISTRIBUTORS: Worldwide GSK buy goods and services from around 90,000 suppliers. Our supply chain is complex: it ranges from strategic relationships with suppliers that manufacture active pharmaceutical ingredients, intermediates, raw materials and packaging for GSK medicines to contracts for goods and services such as office equipment, cleaning and security. The Primary supply sites supply high quality, competitively priced bulk actives and focus on improvements in primary technologies and processes. GSK does not own any of the suppliers or distributors. New product and global supply sites work closely with RDs development teams to ensure that the right technical competencies are in place to support rapid and successful new product GOVERNMENT: As such GSK dont face any issues with the government because they have their code of ethics which GSK strictly follows. GSK also play part in the welfare of society and avoid any of the illegal acts that can affect the GSKs reputation. GENERAL ENVIRONMENT: In general environment technological forces affect the GSK in the sense that new technologies are coming which are resulting in the new methods of producing the products. But GSK due to its huge business easily replace old technology with the new one for making the product in the much better way than the previous methods. FUNCTIONS AND DEPARMENTS AT GSK: The main functions and departments at GSK are: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Production à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Engineering à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Environmental health and safety (EHS) à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Operational excellence à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Supply chain à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Finance à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Human resource à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Procurement à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Quality assurance à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Supply chain CUSTOMER REQUIREMENTS CUSTOMER VALUE FASTER LOWER COST BETTER LEAN SIGMA INPUTSCULTURE AT GSK: CULTURE AND VALUES GSKs  mission  is to improve the quality of human life by enabling people to do more, feel better and live longer. GSK place great emphasis not only on what we achieve, but also on how we deliver our achievements. Integrity and transparency are critical in our decision making and underpin everything that we do. GSKs  culture is summed up in the  Spirit of GSK  that defines the  values  we expect all our employees to embrace: Respect for People Patient Focused Transparency Integrity GSKs  values  are pivotal to the way they operate and employees are people with high integrity who make good, honest decisions with patients in mind. GSKs  mission  and  spirit  help employees deal with new challenges and maintain a clear focus. CORE COMPETENCY OF GSK: The core competency of GSK is their consumer health care, consumer health standard their quality standard. These factors give the core The sources of GSK are due to their huge efforts in R D to bring continuous innovations in the products. Our scientists are working hard to discover new ways of treating and preventing diseases. Our success depends on a vibrant and productive RD function. To this end, we have established an innovative RD structure that encourages creativity and facilitates the accelerated discovery and development of new medicines and hence gaining the competitive advantage. We also build collaborations and links with other research groups, biotechnology companies and academic institutions to help develop transformative scientific concepts. SOURCES OF CORE COMPETENCY: Sources of core c

Analysis of Marxist Theories of Crime

Analysis of Marxist Theories of Crime According to Karl Marx, crime is as a result of the social structures and the economic system that is implemented Karl Marx is a renowned scholar who came up with different kinds of theories to explain the various situations in the world of sociology and economics. In his school of criminology, he largely focuses on conflict criminology and why things change and the role of society in these changes. He acknowledges that the shift from one society to another is not at all smooth as there are obstacles for example, crime. According to Marxism, for the different societies in the world, there exist different social classes. These are based on what each group owns and what it is therefore in control of. The conflict was persistent due to the ownership of the means of production which included land, labor and tools. Hence, the conflict was between the owners and the non-owners of the various means of production. As a result, there was a rise of the two social classes; the working class (less powerful) and the ruling class (more powerful). In a capitalist economic system, the main means of production include factories and machineries. As a result, the owners of these means of production are out to gain all that they can from the implementation of these means of production. However, they still need labor in order to complete the production process. Their main objective is to maximize profits and as such, they result to minimization of the labor costs as much as possible. As a result, the working class is angered by the low wages and is ultimately tired of the exploitation by the persistent means of production owners. Eventually, the working class tends to alienate itself from the overbearing production process. The working class will therefore try anything in its power so as to overthrow the owners who have continuously been exploiting their labor. (Crutchfield, 2000) In their continuous endeavor to overthrow the dominating ruling class, there is competition among them and things become harder. Karl Marx notes that in due course, the working class realizes that the means of production owners also dominate the political divide. As such, their needs are well catered for in the formation of the laws that govern them. They not only have economic control, but also political control. It is then that the working class realizes that they are trapped in their course for freedom and equality. The working class therefore becomes vulnerable and results to crime. After all, there is hardly any way out as the owners of means of production have completely dominated the economy. The poor continue to be poor while the rich become richer. Marxist argued that it was only through theorists like them coming out to clearly inform the working class of who their enemies really are that the conflict resolution would advance and eventually the working class would achieve their sole objective of having some form of control. He argued that with the underpinnings of the capitalist system being brought to light, the fall of this system would be hastened and a communist system would be eventually reached. A system where there were no rights to private property and hence, a society free of classes and oppression. (Tibbetts Hemmens, 2009) Though he did not largely dwell on deviance, Karl largely mentioned about criminal tendencies. He even ironically mentions that had there been no criminals, then personnel such as judges and the police would have no jobs. Marx largely dwells on the societal pressures in doing wrongs other than the individual motives of being immoral. This is largely supported by some scholars for example, Merton who argues that the problem of alienation is mainly due to the social structure other than social change since the society presents equal goal to be achieved yet there are no equal means of achieving the set out goals and objectives. It therefore becomes a form of survival for the fittest. Deviance therefore, is as a result of incompatibility of what the society expects of the working class and the social structure that is in existence. It is accepted by all sociologists that for a society to function effectively, there needs to exist some sort of social order. Laws that govern a state should be for the sole interest of the state. However, there seems to emerge a group that is always leading. This could be as a result of the power that they solely possess. The emergence of such a group could be as a result of efficiently and effectively using power. According to Marx, it is also a huge possibility that the group owns the means of production and is hence in control. A good example is the case of British Colonialism Law in East Africa that resulted in the ruling class having complete control over the coffee plantations. As a result crime becomes on the rise as the working class, though wrongfully, fights for its right. According to the sociologist researchers, it is evident once a group of people have political power, they end embedding all ownership rights of property to themselves and the working class is left at their mercy. As a result, crime rises. Marx was for the idea that means of production should be communally owned in a communist system. As a result, there would be less crime being committed. The only solution to the crime issue is to have a socialist revolution. For example, in Western Europe there is very minimal crime since that part of the world is more socialist as compared to the United States of America. (Marsh Melville, 2006) On the issue of crime, Karl Marxs theory of alienation is also applicable. Over the years, some types of crime have continuously been labeled working class crime. The only question that is commonly left out is whether or not there are certain reasons that make these crimes to only be mostly committed by the working class group. Critically looking at it, it becomes clearer that there are certain factors that leave the working class as the sole victims of these crimes. We also note that crimes in the society do vary depending on different elements for example, age. In case a crime has been committed, it is evident that the judgment passed is highly dependent on the social class that one belongs to. Marxism argued that the final judgment is highly dependent on ones ability to be represented by a good lawyer. However, it is notably difficult for an individual from the working class group to be able to hire a good lawyer due to the limiting factors such as financial limitations. The same analysis is persistent in terms of the punishment that the offender receives. This leads to bias and inequality. Therefore, the main causes of criminality are hugely as a result of capitalism. For instance, the huge economic inequalities whereby the powerless (working class) are exploited by the powerful (ruling class). It is also vividly evident that the values imposed by capitalism push the working class to committing crimes. There is also the tendency of laws to imply that working class groups are the more likely wrong doers than the ruling class. As a result, there exists conflict between the working class individuals who also believe that they are enemies yet it is the ruling class who continuously exploit them every other day. (Greenberg, 1993) The Marxist theories do not at all rely on the available statistics on crime. They insist on the fact they are actually biased and do not at all in a clear way represent the actual distribution of criminality. They also argue that the statistics do not include the crimes of the ruling class because the laws governing such information are hugely biased. They do not allow access to some crimes; those committed by the ruling class are protected. As a result the Realists have criticized these views by the Marxists. They agree that the official statistics may be inaccurate but they still argue that the dismissal is too readily done. They argue that the statistics would be a huge basis for the explanations of crime and deviance. This therefore is a major weakness of the Marxist theories. Another major criticism is based on the fact that the Marxist theories do not deal with matters of gender and crime. As such, the theories are viewed to be inconclusive. For instance, in terms of gender, the theories would have dealt with issues on domestic violence. It is more likely that the working class women would be more prone to domestic violence as compared to women of the ruling class. This could be partly because the available incomes do not meet the needs that present themselves and arguments therefore ensue resulting in domestic violence. Generally, the level of crime is highly propagated by the fact that in our societies there exist classes and as a result there result conflicts between the different classes. The ruling class, which is more powerful, uses law to cover for their evil deeds that go unpunished. On the other hand, the working class is always punished for any crime because they are just mere subjects. These crimes are majorly as a result of the capitalism system which only dehumanizes the individuals who have hardly any power and are therefore helpless. The only solution to all the suffering so that everyone will feel that they are receiving equal treatments is the capitalism system being scrapped off. This way, crime will be largely decreasing. For as long as people are not treated equally, criminal behavior will never cease since there will always be one group of people that will be being exploited. (Akers, 1999) There have been suggestions by several scholars on peaceful solutions to criminology. This is such that in place of imprisonment, offenders should be practice of mediation so as to solve the arising problem. There should also be a theory why women commit less crime as compared to men, even in situations where the women are also part of the ruling class. From the above evaluation, we all anticipate that the findings of the Marxist would be put into practice so as to ensure that there is equality all over the world. This is a free world and no one should be discriminated against just because they are not of a particular social divide. Policy makers in states should carefully choose the best economic system to ensure equality of its people. The interest of the people should always be prioritized. The Marxists findings are a basis for a better tomorrow.

Chinese Footbinding Essay -- China Culture Cultural Essays

Chinese Footbinding In addressing the subject of footbinding, one primary difficulty becomes apparent - that much remains within the realm of the unknowable. Any factual knowledge about the practice may only be drawn from 19th- and 20th-century writings, drawings or photographs. In addition, many of these documents represent a distinctly Western point of view, as they are primarily composed of missionary accounts and the literature of the various anti -footbinding societies.[1] The historical origins of footbinding are frustratingly vague, although brief textual references suggest that small feet for women were preferred as early as the Han dynasty. The first documented reference to the actual binding of a foot is from the court of the Southern Tang dynasty in Nanjing, which celebrates the fame of its dancing girls renowned for their tiny feet and beautiful bow shoes.[2] The practice apparently became the standard for feminine beauty in the imperial court, spreading downward socially and geographically as the lower classes strove to imitate the style of the elite. [3] In its most extreme form, footbinding was the act of wrapping a three- to five-year old girl's feet with binding so as to bend the toes under, break the bones and force the back of the foot together. Its purpose was to produce a tiny foot, the "golden lotus", which was three inches long and thought to be both lovely and alluring.[4] It is believed that the origin of the term "golden lotus" emerged in the Southern Tang dynasty around 920 A.D., where the emperor Li Yu ordered his favorite concubine, Fragrant Girl, to bind her feet with silk bands and dance on a golden lotus platform encrusted with pearls and gems. Thereafter, women inside and outside the court ... ...ive (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1990). Jaschok, Maria. Concubines and Bondservants (London: Oxford University Press, 1988). Ko, Dorothy. "The Body As Attire: The Shifting Meanings of Footbinding in Seventeenth-Century China". Journal of Women's History. Winter 1997, Vol.8:4. Levy, Howard S. The Lotus Lovers: The Complete History of the Curious Erotic Custom of Footbinding in China (Buffalo, NY: Prometheus Books, 1992). Llewellyn, Bernard. China's Courts and Concubines (London: George Allen & Unwin, 1966). Lloyd, Carol. "These Shoes Pinch". New York Times Magazine. Oct. 27, 1996. p. 25. Mackie, Gerry. "Ending Footbinding and Infibulation: A Convention Account". American Sociological Review. December 1996, Vol.61, Issue 6. Paulshock, MD, Bernadine Z.. "Chinese Footbinding". Journal of the American Medical Association. August 12, 1992.

Salvador Dali :: essays research papers fc

(1904-1989) Salvador Dali was born into a middle-class family on May 11th, 1904 in Figures Spain. In 1921 he entered the San Fernando Academy of Fine Arts in Madrid where he made friends with Federico Garcia Lorca, Luis Bunuel, and Eugenio Montes. He pursued his personal intersest in Cubism and Futurism. In June of 1923 Dali was suspended from the Academy for having indicated the students to rebel against the authorities of the school. He was let back in October of 1925, and a year later Dali was permanently expelled. In 1924 he was imprisoned in Figures and Gerona for political reasons. Dali joined the Surrealists in 1929 due to the influence of metaphysical paintings, and his contact with Miro. Dali developed his method over the next few years. He describes his method as 'paranoic-critical, a 'spontaneous method of irrational knowledge based on critical and systematic objectivation of delirious associations and interpretations.' Works he produced at this time include The Lugubrious Game 1929, The Persistence of Memory 1931, and Surrealist Objects, Gauges of Instantaneous Memory 1932. Salvador Dali was the top Surrealists of this time. Surrealism explored the subconscious, the dream world, and irrational elements of the psyche in the belief that the discoveries to be made from such exploration would be of more fundamental importance to the human condition than any other form of social analysis. Salvador Dali was very fascinated by the fleeting state of the mind between sleep and consciousness, dream and reality, sanity and insanity, as one in which the mind functioned purely, free from the constraints of logic and social behavior. He read psychological case histories, hoping to represent neuroses in an ultra-realistic style, objectifying the irrational with photographic accuracy. In 1936, Dali began painting in a classical manner again, switching between Italian, Spanish and pompier styles. Dali was very politically involved, and had some extreme opinions. He was fascinated with Hitler, and his relations with the rest of the Surrealist group became strained after 1934, breaking away in 1939 when he declared his support for Franco. He moved to the USA, living there from 1939-1948. Dali held many one-man shows during his career. He directed and was a part of many films including the first surrealist film "Un Chiea A Dalou A Andalusian Dog", with the director Luis Bunuel. In 1945 he designed the surrealistic dream sequence for Hitchcock's Spellbound, and filmed Don Juan Tenorio, in 1951. Salvador Dali :: essays research papers fc (1904-1989) Salvador Dali was born into a middle-class family on May 11th, 1904 in Figures Spain. In 1921 he entered the San Fernando Academy of Fine Arts in Madrid where he made friends with Federico Garcia Lorca, Luis Bunuel, and Eugenio Montes. He pursued his personal intersest in Cubism and Futurism. In June of 1923 Dali was suspended from the Academy for having indicated the students to rebel against the authorities of the school. He was let back in October of 1925, and a year later Dali was permanently expelled. In 1924 he was imprisoned in Figures and Gerona for political reasons. Dali joined the Surrealists in 1929 due to the influence of metaphysical paintings, and his contact with Miro. Dali developed his method over the next few years. He describes his method as 'paranoic-critical, a 'spontaneous method of irrational knowledge based on critical and systematic objectivation of delirious associations and interpretations.' Works he produced at this time include The Lugubrious Game 1929, The Persistence of Memory 1931, and Surrealist Objects, Gauges of Instantaneous Memory 1932. Salvador Dali was the top Surrealists of this time. Surrealism explored the subconscious, the dream world, and irrational elements of the psyche in the belief that the discoveries to be made from such exploration would be of more fundamental importance to the human condition than any other form of social analysis. Salvador Dali was very fascinated by the fleeting state of the mind between sleep and consciousness, dream and reality, sanity and insanity, as one in which the mind functioned purely, free from the constraints of logic and social behavior. He read psychological case histories, hoping to represent neuroses in an ultra-realistic style, objectifying the irrational with photographic accuracy. In 1936, Dali began painting in a classical manner again, switching between Italian, Spanish and pompier styles. Dali was very politically involved, and had some extreme opinions. He was fascinated with Hitler, and his relations with the rest of the Surrealist group became strained after 1934, breaking away in 1939 when he declared his support for Franco. He moved to the USA, living there from 1939-1948. Dali held many one-man shows during his career. He directed and was a part of many films including the first surrealist film "Un Chiea A Dalou A Andalusian Dog", with the director Luis Bunuel. In 1945 he designed the surrealistic dream sequence for Hitchcock's Spellbound, and filmed Don Juan Tenorio, in 1951.

OConnor’s Greenleaf :: Flannery OConnor Greenleaf Essays

O'Connor’s Greenleaf O'Connor’s story, "Greenleaf," is a dramatic and violent exposition of the workings of grace. The story takes its title from the name of a family who work on the property of a Mrs May. Throughout the story, contrasts are built up between Mrs May's children, who haven't been terribly successful, and Mrs Greenleaf's children, who somehow seem to have succeeded even though Mrs May regards them as very low down on the social scale. Mrs Greenleaf becomes the subject of some satire in the story in terms of her fundamentalist Christianity. For example, there is an instance in which Mrs May comes across Mrs Greenleaf sprawled on her hands and knees on the side of the road with her head down: "Mrs Greenleaf!" she shrilled, "what's happened?" Mrs Greenleaf raised her head. Her face was a patchwork of dirt and tears and her small eyes, the colour of two field peas, were red-rimmed and swollen, but her expression was composed as a bulldog's. She swayed back and forth on her hands and knees and groaned, "Jesus, Jesus." (31) Mrs May, of course, doesn't like this very much and feels that Mrs Greenleaf is, so to speak, "over the top." As we are told: She was a good Christian woman with a large respect for religion, though she did not, of course, believe any of it was true. "What is the matter with you?" she asked sharply. (31) We feel in the story that while O'Connor doesn't approve of Mrs May's lack of any real Christian spirit, she probably doesn't approve of Mrs Greenleaf's excess of spirit either. The end of the story focuses on a bull which keeps breaking into Mrs May's property. This bull takes on a symbolic function when we find Mrs May pursuing the bull trying to get it off her property: She looked back and saw that the bull, his head lowered, was racing toward her. She remained perfectly still, not in fright, but in a freezing unbelief. She stared at the violent black streak bounding toward her as if she had no sense of distance, as if she could not decide at once what his intention was, and the bull had buried his head in her lap, like a wild tormented lover, before her expression changed. One of his horns sank until it pierced her heart and the other curved around her side and held her in an unbreakable grip.

The Vernissage

This short story was written in 2008, so it is a quite new one. It is about Alex and his family. At the beginning of this short story, Alex’ mother is picking him up from school; they are talking about everyday experiences about his school and her new bought dress. The mother has bought a new dress for the Vernissage she is going to attend to with her husband the following evening. Therefore Alex is going to stay home and doing his homework with company of his babysitter Anne-Marie. At six o’clock his father is coming home. At this hour Alex is laying in his parent’s bedroom underneath his parent’s bed listening to his mother getting ready for the coming evening. When his father gets in to the room a conversation with few words begins. At the ending Alex’s parents walks out and he goes into the bathroom and begin brushing his teeth even though he is soon going to have dinner. As we already know has Alex been for school and he gets into his mother’s car with a bit trouble because of the group of mothers waiting outside the school gates. He is still a boy who loves banana sandwiches. Yet he still wants to grow older and no longer be considered a child (p. , l. 48) â€Å"There was something about banana sandwiches, sweet and soft, that made him think of babyfood. Maybe he was getting too old for banana sandwiches,† He loves his mother and has a better relationship to her than he has to his father, he talks and has a lot more contact to his mother shown throughout the whole short story. Considered his bad relationship to his father a nice example is shown (p. 3, l. 100) â€Å"He hoped his father would not come looking for him – but that would be unusual,† Therefore it seems like his father doesn’t care that much for his son. Alex is also a very curious boy, or else he wouldn’t be asking so many questions to his mother so many times. After Alex has slipped into his parent’s bedroom he lies underneath the bed, and he is watching his mother while she is getting dressed and ready. In this scene we see the relationship between Alex’s parents. His father is going up the stairs to meet his wife. They are married, yet it feels like there is some sort of distance between them (p. 3, l. 107) â€Å"The two pairs of legs kept their distance, about three feet between them,† Alex’s mother is ery supportive towards her husband, he seems to be quite nervous for this evening (p. 3, l. 109) â€Å"â€Å"How are you feeling about tonight? † â€Å"OK. It should all go OK, I think. † â€Å"Of course it will. It will be great, John. †Ã¢â‚¬  Alex’s mother is searching for some sort of accept from Alex’s father whom she cannot achieve; she bought the purple dress for his sake, to look good for his special night and because he once said, the colour suited her, she listens to her husband, and it means a lot to her to come close to him. He does not listen to her (p. 3, l. 18) â€Å"â€Å"I told you I was going to buy a new dress; for tonight. Remember? † â€Å"Oh, right. † â€Å"Do you like it? † â€Å"The dress? †Ã¢â‚¬  In this line we can see how he seems not to care that much for his whole family. Alex’s father keeps a certain distance to his own wife, and perhaps she feels shut out of his mind. She tries to get closer to him, (p. 4, l. 148) â€Å"The woman took the hand and cupped it round her left breast. She held it there, as though it were a weak runt of a thing. † She wants her husband to touch her, but still this seems not to make the biggest impression on him either. As the main theme I believe we have lost love. We see a mother, a wife who wants her husband’s accept and she wants to feel him touching her not to reject her hand and begging. The mothers dress is purple; this stands for spirituality and is connected with the blood of sacrifice. Therefore I see the dress and the colour stands for her sacrifice to her husband. She truly wants to be a good and caring wife, support him in every way, she can. The white crepe paper stands for pureness and a new beginning. It can also mean loneliness and despair.

The Host Chapter 53: Condemned

The Seeker's host body was named Lacey; a dainty, soft, feminine name. Lacey. As inappropriate as the size, in my opinion. Like naming a pit bull Fluffy. Lacey was just as loud as the Seeker-and still a complainer. â€Å"You'll have to forgive me for going on and on,† she insisted, allowing us no other options. â€Å"I've been shouting away in there for years and never getting to speak for myself. I've got a lot to say all stored up.† How lucky for us. I could almost make myself glad that I was leaving. In answer to my earlier question to myself, no, the face was not less repugnant with a different awareness behind it. Because the awareness was not so very different, in the end. â€Å"That's why we don't like you,† she told me that first night, making no change from the present tense or the plural pronoun. â€Å"When she realized that you were hearing Melanie just the way she was hearing me, it made her frightened. She thought you might guess. I was her deep, dark secret.† A grating laugh. â€Å"She couldn't make me shut up. That's why she became a Seeker, because she was hoping to figure out some way to better deal with resistant hosts. And then she requested being assigned to you, so she could watch how you did it. She was jealous of you; isn't that pathetic? She wanted to be strong like you. It gave us a real kick when we thought Melanie had won. I guess that didn't happen, though. I guess you did. So why did you come here? Why are you helping the rebels?† I explained, unwillingly, that Melanie and I were friends. She didn't like that. â€Å"Why?† she demanded. â€Å"She's a good person.† â€Å"But why does she like you?† Same reason. â€Å"She says, for the same reason.† Lacey snorted. â€Å"Got her brainwashed, huh?† Wow, she's worse than the first one. Yes, I agreed. I can see why the Seeker was so obnoxious. Can you imagine having that in your head all the time? I wasn't the only thing Lacey objected to. â€Å"Do you have anywhere better to live than these caves? It's so dirty here. Isn't there a house somewhere, maybe? What do you mean we have to share rooms? Chore schedule? I don't understand. I have to work? I don't think you understand†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Jeb had given her the usual tour the next day, trying to explain, through clenched teeth, the way we all lived here. When they'd passed me-eating in the kitchen with Ian and Jamie-he threw me a look that clearly asked why I hadn't let Aaron shoot her while that was still an option. The tour was more crowded than mine. Everyone wanted to see the miracle for themselves. It didn't even seem to matter to most of them that she was†¦ difficult. She was welcome. More than welcome. Again, I felt a little of that bitter jealousy. But that was silly. She was human. She represented hope. She belonged here. She would be here long after I was gone. Lucky you, Mel whispered sarcastically. Talking to Ian and Jamie about what had happened was not as difficult and painful as I'd imagined. This was because they were, for different reasons, entirely clueless. Neither grasped that this new knowledge meant I would be leaving. With Jamie, I understood why. More than anyone else, he had accepted me and Mel as the package deal we were. He was able, with his young, open mind, to grasp the reality of our dual personalities. He treated us like two people rather than one. Mel was so real, so present to him. The same way she was to me. He didn't miss her, because he had her. He didn't see the necessity of our separation. I wasn't sure why Ian didn't understand. Was he too caught up in the potential? The changes this would mean for the human society here? They were all boggled by the idea that getting caught-the end-was no longer a finality. There was a way to come back. It seemed natural to him that I had acted to save the Seeker; it was consistent with his idea of my personality. Maybe that was as far as he'd considered it. Or maybe Ian just didn't have a chance to think it all through, to see the glaring eventuality, before he was distracted. Distracted and enraged. â€Å"I should have killed him years ago,† Ian ranted as we packed what we needed for our raid. My final raid; I tried not to dwell on that. â€Å"No, our mother should have drowned him at birth!† â€Å"He's your brother.† â€Å"I don't know why you keep saying that. Are you trying to make me feel worse?† Everyone was furious with Kyle. Jared's lips were welded into a tight line of rage, and Jeb stroked his gun more than usual. Jeb had been excited, planning to join us on this landmark raid, his first since I'd come to live here. He was particularly keen to see the shuttle field up close. But now, with Kyle putting us all in danger, he felt he had to stay behind just in case. Not getting his way put Jeb in a foul mood. â€Å"Stuck behind with that creature,† he muttered to himself, rubbing the rifle barrel again-he wasn't getting any happier about the new member of his community. â€Å"Missin' all the fun.† He spit on the floor. We all knew where Kyle was. As soon as he'd grasped how the Seeker-worm had magically transformed into the Lacey-human in the night, he'd slipped out the back. I'd been expecting him to lead the party demanding the Seeker's death (I kept the cryotank always cradled in my arms; I slept lightly, my hand touching its smooth surface), but he was nowhere to be found, and Jeb had quashed the resistance easily in his absence. Jared was the one to realize the jeep was gone. And Ian had been the one to link the two absences. â€Å"He's gone after Jodi,† Ian had groaned. â€Å"What else?† Hope and despair. I had given them one, Kyle the other. Would he betray them all before they could even make use of the hope? Jared and Jeb wanted to put off the raid until we knew if Kyle was successful-it would take him three days under the best circumstances, if his Jodi still lived in Oregon. If he could find her there. There was another place, another cave we could evacuate to. A much smaller place, with no water, so we couldn't hide there long. They'd debated whether they should move everyone now or wait. But I was in a hurry. I'd seen the way the others eyed the silver tank in my arms. I'd heard the whispers. The longer I kept the Seeker here, the better chance that someone would kill her. Having met Lacey, I'd begun to pity the Seeker. She deserved a mild, pleasant new life with the Flowers. Ironically enough, Ian was the one who took my side and helped hurry the raid along. He still didn't see where this would lead. But I was grateful that he helped me convince Jared there was time to make the raid and get back before a decision was made about Kyle. Grateful also that he was back to playing bodyguard. I knew I could trust Ian with the shiny cryotank more than anyone else. He was the only one I would let hold it when I needed my arms. He was the only one who could see, in the shape of that small container, a life to be protected. He could think of that shape as a friend, something that could be loved. He was the best ally of all. I was so grateful for Ian, and so grateful for the obliviousness that saved him, for the moment, from pain. We had to be fast, in case Kyle ruined everything. We went to Phoenix again, to one of the many communities that spun out from the hub. There was a big shuttle field to the southeast, in a town called Mesa, with several Healing facilities nearby. That was what I wanted-I would give them as much as I could before I left. If we took a Healer, then we might be able to preserve the Healer's memory in the host body. Someone who understood all the medicines and their uses. Someone who knew the best ways to get to unattended stashes. Doc would love that. I could imagine all the questions he'd be dying to ask. First the shuttle field. I was sad that Jeb was missing this, but he'd have so many other chances in the future. Though it was dark, a long line of small snub-nosed shuttles drifted in to land while others took flight in an endless stream. I drove the old van while the others rode in the back-Ian in charge of the tank, of course. I circled the field, staying clear of the busy local terminal. It was easy to spot the vast, sleek white vessels that left the planet. They did not depart with the frequency of the smaller ships. All I saw were docked, none preparing to leave immediately. â€Å"Everything's labeled,† I reported to the others, invisible in the dark back. â€Å"Now, this is important. Avoid ships to the Bats, and especially the See Weeds. The See Weeds are just one system over-it takes only a decade to make the round trip. That's much too short. The Flowers are the farthest, and the Dolphins, Bears, and Spiders all take at least a century to go one way. Only send tanks to those.† I drove slowly, close to the crafts. â€Å"This will be easy. They've got all kinds of delivery vehicles out here, and we blend in. Oh! I can see a tank truck-it's just like the one we saw them unloading at the hospital, Jared. There's a man looking over the stacks†¦ He's putting them onto a hover cart. He's going to load them†¦Ã¢â‚¬  I drove even slower, trying to get a good look. â€Å"Yes, onto this ship. Right into the open hatch. I'll circle back and make my move when he's in the ship.† I pulled past, examining the scene in my mirrors. There was a lit sign beside the tube that connected the head of the ship to the terminal. I smiled as I read the words backward. This ship was going to the Flowers. It was meant to be. I made a slow turn as the man disappeared into the hull of the ship. â€Å"Get ready,† I whispered as I pulled into the shadow made by the cylindrical wing of the next enormous ship over. I was only three or four yards from the tank truck. There were a few technicians working near the front of the Flower-bound vessel and others, farther away, out on the old runway. I would be just another figure in the night. I cut the engine and hopped down from the driver's seat, trying to look casual, like I was only doing my job. I went around to the back of the van and opened the door a crack. The tank was right at the edge, the light on top glowing dull red, signifying that it was occupied. I lifted it carefully and closed the door. I kept up an easy rolling pace as I walked to the open end of the truck. But my breathing sped up. This felt more dangerous than the hospital, and that worried me. Could I expect my humans to risk their lives this way? I'll be there. I'll do it myself, just like you would. On the off chance you get your way, that is. Thanks, Mel. I had to force myself not to keep glancing over my shoulder at the open hatch where the man had disappeared. I placed the tank gently atop the closest column in the truck. The addition, one among hundreds, was not noticeable. â€Å"Goodbye,† I whispered. â€Å"Better luck with your next host.† I walked back to the van as slowly as I could stand to. It was silent in the van as I reversed out from under the big ship. I started back the way we'd come, my heart hammering too fast. In my mirrors, the hatch remained empty. I didn't see the man emerge before the ship was out of sight. Ian climbed into the passenger seat. â€Å"Doesn't look too hard.† â€Å"It was very good luck with the timing. You might have to wait longer for an opportunity next time.† Ian reached over to take my hand. â€Å"You're the good-luck charm.† I didn't answer. â€Å"Do you feel better now that she's safe?† â€Å"Yes.† I saw his head turn sharply as he heard the unexpected sound of a lie in my voice. I didn't meet his gaze. â€Å"Let's go catch some Healers,† I muttered. Ian was silent and thoughtful as we drove the short distance to the small Healing facility. I'd thought the second task would be the challenge, the danger. The plan was that I would-if the conditions and numbers were right-try to lead a Healer or two out of the facility under the pretext that I had an injured friend in my van. An old trick, but one that would work only too well on the unsuspecting, trusting Healers. As it turned out, I didn't even have to go in. I pulled into the lot just as two middle-aged Healers, a man and a woman wearing purple scrubs, were getting into a car. Their shift over, they were heading home. The car was around the corner from the entrance. No one else was in sight. Ian nodded tensely. I stopped the van right behind their car. They looked up, surprised. I opened my door and slid out. My voice was thick with tears, my face twisted with remorse, and that helped to fool them. â€Å"My friend is in the back-I don't know what's wrong with him.† They responded with the instant concern I knew they would show. I hurried to open the back doors for them, and they followed right behind. Ian went around the other side. Jared was ready with the chloroform. I didn't watch. It took just seconds. Jared hauled the unconscious bodies into the back, and Ian slammed the doors shut. Ian stared at my tear-swollen eyes for just a second, then took the driver's seat. I rode shotgun. He held my hand again. â€Å"Sorry, Wanda. I know this is hard for you.† â€Å"Yes.† He had no idea how hard, and for how many different reasons. He squeezed my fingers. â€Å"But that went well, at least. You make an excellent charm.† Too well. Both missions had gone too perfectly, too fast. Fate was rushing me. He drove back toward the freeway. After a few minutes, I saw a bright, familiar sign in the distance. I took a deep breath and wiped my eyes clear. â€Å"Ian, could you do me a favor?† â€Å"Anything you want.† â€Å"I want fast food.† He laughed. â€Å"No problem.† We switched seats in the parking lot, and I drove up to the ordering box. â€Å"What do you want?† I asked Ian. â€Å"Nothing. I'm getting a kick out of watching you do something for yourself. This has to be a first.† I didn't smile at his joke. To me, this was sort of a last meal-the final gift to the condemned. I wouldn't leave the caves again. â€Å"Jared, how about you?† â€Å"Two of whatever you're having.† So I ordered three cheeseburgers, three bags of fries, and three strawberry shakes. After I got my food, Ian and I switched again so I could eat while he drove. â€Å"Eew,† he said, watching me dip a french fry into the shake. â€Å"You should try it. It's good.† I offered him a well-coated fry. He shrugged and took it. He popped it into his mouth and chewed. â€Å"Interesting.† I laughed. â€Å"Melanie thinks it's gross, too.† That's why I'd cultivated the habit in the beginning. It was funny now to think how I'd gone out of my way to annoy her. I wasn't really hungry. I'd just wanted some of the flavors I particularly remembered, one more time. Ian finished off half my burger when I was full. We made it home without incident. We saw no sign of the Seekers' surveillance. Perhaps they'd accepted the coincidence. Maybe they thought it inevitable-wander the desert alone long enough, and something bad would happen to you. We'd had a saying like that on the Mists Planet: Cross too many ice fields alone, and wind up a claw beast's meal. That was a rough translation. It sounded better in Bear. There was a large reception waiting for us. I smiled halfheartedly at my friends: Trudy, Geoffrey, Heath, and Heidi. My true friends were dwindling. No Walter, no Wes. I didn't know where Lily was. This made me sad. Maybe I didn't want to live on this sad planet with so much death. Maybe nothingness was better. It also made me sad, petty as it was, to see Lucina standing beside Lacey, with Reid and Violetta on the other side. They were talking animatedly, asking questions, it looked like. Lacey was holding Freedom on her hip. He didn't look especially thrilled about this, but he was happy enough being part of the adults' conversation that he didn't squirm down. I'd never been allowed near the child, but Lacey was already one of them. Trusted. We went straight to the south tunnel, Jared and Ian laboring under the weight of the Healers. Ian had the heavier one, the man, and sweat ran down his fair face. Jeb shooed the others back at the tunnel entrance and then followed us. Doc was waiting for us in the hospital, rubbing his hands together absently, as if washing them. Time continued to speed up. The brighter lamp was lit. The Healers were given No Pain and laid out facedown on the cots. Jared showed Ian how to activate the tanks. They held them ready, Ian wincing at the stunning cold. Doc stood over the female, scalpel in hand and medicines laid out in a row. â€Å"Wanda?† he asked. My heart squeezed inward painfully. â€Å"Do you swear, Doc? All of my terms? Do you promise me on your own life?† â€Å"I do. I will meet all of your terms, Wanda. I swear it.† â€Å"Jared?† â€Å"Yes. Absolutely no killing, ever.† â€Å"Ian?† â€Å"I'll protect them with my own life, Wanda.† â€Å"Jeb?† â€Å"It's my house. Anyone who can't abide by this agreement will have to get out.† I nodded, tears in my eyes. â€Å"Okay, then. Let's get it over with.† Doc, excited again, cut into the Healer until he could see the silver gleam. He set the scalpel quickly aside. â€Å"Now what?† I put my hand on his. â€Å"Trace up the back ridge. Can you feel that? Feel the shape of the segments. They get smaller toward the anterior section. Okay, at the end you should feel three small†¦ stubby things. Do you feel what I'm talking about?† â€Å"Yes,† he breathed. â€Å"Good. Those are the anterior antennae. Start there. Now, very gently, roll your finger under the body. Find the line of attachments. They'll feel tight, like wires.† He nodded. I guided him a third of the way down, told him how to count if he wasn't sure. We didn't have time for counting with all the blood flowing free. I was sure the Healer's body, if she came around, would be able to help us-there must be something for that. I helped him find the biggest nodule. â€Å"Now, rub softly in toward the body. Knead it lightly.† Doc's voice went up in pitch, turned a little panicky. â€Å"It's moving.† â€Å"That's good-it means you're doing it right. Give it time to retract. Wait till it rolls up a bit, then take it into your hand.† â€Å"Okay.† His voice shook. I reached toward Ian. â€Å"Give me your hand.† I felt Ian's hand wind around mine. I turned it over, curled his hand into a cup, and pulled it close to Doc's operation site. â€Å"Give the soul to Ian-gently, please.† Ian would be the perfect assistant. When I was gone, who else would take such care with my little relatives? Doc passed the soul into Ian's waiting hand, then turned at once to heal the human body. Ian stared at the silver ribbon in his hand, his face full of wonder rather than revulsion. It felt warmer inside my chest while I watched his reaction. â€Å"It's pretty,† he whispered, surprised. No matter how he felt about me, he'd been conditioned to expect a parasite, a centipede, a monster. Cleaning up severed bodies had not prepared him for the beauty here. â€Å"I think so, too. Let it slide into your tank.† Ian held the soul cupped in his hand for one more second, as if memorizing the sight and feel. Then, with delicate care, he let it glide into the cold. Jared showed him how to latch the lid. A weight fell off my shoulders. It was done. It was too late to change my mind. This didn't feel as horrible as I'd anticipated, because I felt sure these four humans would care for the souls just as I would. When I was gone. â€Å"Look out!† Jeb suddenly shouted. The gun came up in his hands, pointed past us. We whirled toward the danger, and Jared's tank fell to the floor as he jumped toward the male Healer, who was on his knees on the cot, staring at us in shock. Ian had the presence of mind to hold on to his tank. â€Å"Chloroform,† Jared shouted as he tackled the Healer, pinning him back down to the cot. But it was too late. The Healer stared straight at me, his face childlike in his bewilderment. I knew why his eyes were on me-the lantern's rays danced off both his eyes and mine, making diamond patterns on the wall. â€Å"Why?† he asked me. Then his face went blank, and his body slumped, unresisting, to the cot. Two trails of blood flowed from his nostrils. â€Å"No!† I screamed, lurching to his inert form, knowing it was far too late. â€Å"No!†