Social Media Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 4

Social Media - Essay Example Social media differentiates from traditional/industrial media in many aspects such as usability, reach, frequency, quality, permanence, and immediacy. There are many effects, which stem from internet usage. The role of social media in marketing is to use it as a communication tool that makes the companies accessible to those interested in their product and makes them visible to those that do not know their result. It ought to lie used as a tool that creates a personality behind their brand and creates relationships that they otherwise may never gain. This not only creates repeat-buyers, but customer loyalty as well. Fact is social media is so diversified that it can be used in whatever way best suits the interest and the needs of the business (Tini, 2011). Social media depend on mobile and web-based technologies to create highly interactive platforms through which individuals and communities co-create, share, discuss, and modify user-generated content. It introduces pervasive and sub stantial changes to communication between relative communities, organizations, and individuals. Various statistics account for social media usage and effectiveness for individuals worldwide. Some of the most recent statistics have it that Facebook remains the most-visited social network in the U.S. and all over the world. It receives over 152.2 million visitors via P.C and is multiple times the size of the next largest social site across this platform. Similarly, statistics state that Consumers continue to spend more time on social networks than on any other category of sites. To be more precise, they spend roughly 20% of their total time online via, and 30% of total time online via mobile (Smith, 2011). Social media can have tremendous benefits but also can have serious security risks for organizations. Two of the greatest risks to organizations are malware and inadvertent disclosure of sensitive information. The security risks are often cited by companies as a reason they do not a llow social media use. Seventy-two percent of companies believe employees’ use of social media poses a threat to their organizations. Their concerns are justified. Companies in the west are investing increasingly in SMM to get in touch with their customers (Capriotti, 2009). They indulge in constant interaction with their prospects in order to understand their needs and hence make products better. It lies as the best way to learn from ones customers about their needs and your own shortcomings. Nonetheless, SMM is a very personalized way of advertising and promotions can lie targeted only to specific groups, which are interested in a particular domain, quite unlike conventional advertising. According to a report by researchers, the incidence of malware is increasing on the most popular social media sites including Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter (Smith, 2011). There are currently more than one thousand companies compiling comprehensive databases about individual consumers, a va st increase in just five years. Rather than engaging in mass marketing, they focus on gathering as much information as possible about specific people to engage in targeted or profile marketing. By compiling layer upon layer of information about specific individuals, they are able to produce a profile based on income, lifestyle, and an enormous variety of other factors. By making use of these databases, it is possible to identify people by what many would

Fashion provides one of the most ready means Essay

Fashion provides one of the most ready means - Essay Example The paper "Fashion provides one of the most ready means" explores what fashion is, from several perspectives, and highlights a number of difficulties in equating fashion with the expression of individual identity. The term â€Å"fashion† derives from the French verb faire which means simply â€Å"to make,† and it came to be used at first by the upper classes of Europe who began to mingle more freely with each other and exchange influences during the Industrial revolution. This connection with class, and with expanding European capitalism, continues into modern discourses about globalization and the dominance of Eurocentric ideas in the modern world. There is something about travel that encourages waves of imitation to cross from one culture to the next. It became obvious that different countries â€Å"fashioned† their everyday objects differently, and so the adoption of a â€Å"fashion† which imitated that of a distant place became an indicator of wealth a nd sophistication. An English aristocratic woman’s purpose in buying the latest pattern for dressmaking or interior design in Paris was therefore a celebration of difference, setting the owner apart from others of her own circle, and creating an insurmountable social gap between those who could afford such luxuries, and those servants and workers who could perhaps glimpse such wonders but never hope to ever own them. Already, then, it is obvious that the adoption of new fashions, from whatever source, is a complex undertaking that involves economic and social factors.

Rationale for Work Placement Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Rationale for Work Placement - Essay Example Physical strength is one of the principle fitness skills that a good trainer aims at imparting to the clients. Football players need strength in order to gain position advantage in front of the defenders and maintain versatility for a longer time. The training involved targets mostly the legs, with an aim of physically lowering the player’s centre of gravity. Strength enables the player to attain high balance capacity needed in stability. Stability is not only needed in running and fighting for the ball but also in dribbling towards the opponent’s net (Kraemer and Zatsiorsky, 1995, p105). The other part of the body targeted in strength training is the upper body, which enables the player to coordinate aerial contests for the ball as well as ball control. Contact with the opponents must be solidly positioned to avoid unnecessary face-offs. The torso fitness training includes muscular ability enhancement. Strength endurance is particularly important in games with high tem po and contact like football. Endurance training involves improvement on the players’ ability to use sub-maximal energy in the entire game duration, to enable the muscles gain tolerance to extended energy taxing. It is not necessarily aimed at muscle mass but the ability of the muscle to endure long durations of workouts. Training includes use of three types of exercise; body weight tolerance, machine weight resistance as well as free weight (objects). Training controls the factors that limit strength and endurance abilities some which include reps.

Stereotypes of women in the play Essay Example for Free

Stereotypes of women in the play Essay Woman in Aeschylus’s Agamemnon are perceived as untrustworthy and ignorant characters. The role of women in ancient Greek life, was considered to be insignificant compared to that of Greek men. And yet, in tragedies, women were often written as major characters, revealing insights on how women were treated and thought of in society. Many well-known Greek plays contain several well-written, complex, female characters. Each female character takes upon herself, the role of villain, the role of victim, and the role of heroine. Drama and theatre in the ancient Greek world expresses the communities’ concerns in regards to their ambitions, fears, hope and their deepest sympathy. In Greek drama, playwrights often included pivotal female roles, despite the fact that the cast was strictly male. The role of women in ancient Greek life is deemed irrelevant compared to that of Greek men, however, in tragedies, women are often written as major characters, revealing important insights on the perceptions and treatment of women in society. For a woman to possess qualities such as leadership and strength is not typical, in fact it is seen as masculine and un-ladylike. Many Greek plays contain several complex female characters; Aeschylus is a playwright whom incorporates a very complex female character, Clytemnestra in his play Agamemnon. Although Clytemnestra is one of the most recognizable and noted female villains due to her involvement in the murder of her husband and his concubine, one can argue that her actions are justifiable. Whether her vengeful actions are triggered by the death of her daughter Iphigenia, her love for Aegisthus or the jealousy of her husband’s mistress Cassandra, either is motive enough to make her turn to evil. There is a quote made by the chorus that suggest evidence that women are incompetent and over emotional for leadership, It is very like a woman in command to concede gratitude before the facts appear: too ready to persuade, a female ranges beyond her boundary, quick to move; but doom is quick for rumour when a woman spreads it, and it is destroyed. (483-487) With these words, the Chorus expresses a stereotyped view of women as emotional and irrational. From my reading of the play as a whole, I asked myself the question did the female characters in the play actually live up to this stereotype? As I pondered upon this I knew the answer was No. The women in this play are fierce and merciless, and do as they wish. Even though they have a dark cloud of gender prejudice overhead they go against this and stand above all. As for the male characters, their are clearly some who are very rational and dont get their hopes up too early; both the Watchman and the Herald seem to fit this description. Based on the way all of the characters in the play are depicted I personally think Aeschylus does not agrees with the Choruss opinion of women. Just like many explore argumentative themes, Aeschulus decided to explore gender inequalities and hierarchies in a time when this topic was importantly relevant. In a patriarchal society like that of ancient Greece, it would be pretty hard to have a play with a fearsome female villain like Clytemnestra and not have the issue of gender play a prominent role. At many points in Agamemnon, we hear characters utter stereotyped views about women, but it isnt clear how much Aeschylus endorses these. For example, the Chorus frequently remarks on how women are irrational and dont pay attention to the facts. The Chorus members intend this as a criticism of Clytemnestra, but do we really see her being irrational or making factual mistakes? Evil though it is, Clytemnestras murder plot definitely required careful (i. e. , rational) planning, and she was right about the signal fire from Troy, which the Chorus doubted. Also, the Chorus is majorly wrong in mistaking the appearance of Clytemnestra for what it really means, when they cant believe she will be Agamemnons killer. Clytemnestras actions do, however bear out another cultural stereotype in the play: that women are untrustworthy. (Of course, it could also be said that Agamemnon is untrustworthy, since he sacrificed his own daughter. ) At the end of the play, when the Chorus makes fun of Aegisthus by calling him a woman for not going to war and using deception to get back at Agamemnon, does this question or reinforce stereotypes? Absolutely. There is many similarities between Aeschules’s Play on gender inequality and stereotyping and experiences of those of the 1950’s. The role of women in the 1950 was repressive and constructive in many ways. Society placed high importance and many expectations on behavior at home as well as in public. Women were supposed to fulfill certain roles, such as a caring mother, a diligent homemaker, and a obedient wife. The mother was supposed to stay at home and nurture so society would accept them. The basics of the inept woman were: the woman driver, the over-spender who cannot budget, and the basic downfall of man. This all ties back to the women in Agamemnon, despite the male characters never ending humility and doubtfulness of intelligence the women, there is a strong prevalence and honor for the female sex among woman. Here is a poignant example of strong clystamnestras femininity†¦ I cried out my joy long ago, when the first night-messenger of fire came telling of Ilions capture and destruction. And someone said in reproof, Have beacon-watchers persuaded you to think that Troy is now ransacked? Truly like a woman to let her heart be lifted! Words such as those made me seem astray; nevertheless I went on sacrificing, and people in all parts of the city shrilled cries of joy in womens custom, in grateful triumph, lulling the fragrant flame that devoured their sacrifice at the gods seats. And now, for the longer account, what need have you to give it me? I shall learn the whole story from my lord himself; and I must hasten to give my revered husband the best of welcomes now he has come back. For what light of day is sweeter to a wife to see than this, with the gates opened up when god has brought back her husband safely from campaign? Take this message away to my husband, to come as soon as possible; he is the citys beloved darling. As to his wife, I wish he may find her when he comes just as faithful in his home as the one he left behind, the houses watch-dog to him while hostile to ill-wishers, and similar in everything else, with no seal broken in the length of time; and I know no more of pleasure from another man, nor talk of blame, than I do of dipping bronze. There you have my boast; its fullness with the truth makes it no shame for a woman of my nobility to proclaim. (587-614)| | I’ve quoted this entire long speech by Clytemnestra because of the sheer wealth of conflicting images of femininity it offers. At the beginning of the speech, we see her offering a counterargument to the sexist stereotypes presented by the Chorus in the previous quotation. Contrary to how they claim women typically behave, Clytemnestra says that she was right about the fact that Agamemnon was coming home, and so hadnt gotten her hopes up for no reason. She drives this point home by saying that she doesnt want to hear any more secondhand information, but will wait to hear what her husband has to say when he gets home. For the rest of the speech, she interweaves various ideas of traditional femininity, pointing out how much she loves her husband, and how faithful she has been to him while he was gone. Aeschylus’s Greek tragedy, Agamemnon stereotypes of women in the play are quite evident. There is no rug sweeping of this topic at all, instead the reader is greeted with this issue at the beginning of the play. It seems like every male character especially the chorus are brash on the females and encounter them is unworthy, unintelligent and forgetful subhuman. Male characters in Agamemnon do not in the slightest take anything women say seriously and believe the right place for them in caring for baby and the home, similarity to that of the stereotypical housewife of the 1950’s. To much astonishment the women in the play prevail against all preconceptions about them. Probably the most is Clytamnestra, who killed her husband because he sacrificed her beloved daughter to succeed his army. Clytamnestra was a strong woman and never apologized for what she did, but admitted to it with dignity and honor. Women of Agamemnon serve as a fine example to the idea that even though women might be placed in a situation that has placed in a unfair hierarchy of gender, we women must triumph and overcome biases just like our sisters have done for millenniums; we must be brave and endure so we can succeed and show that we can do and be just about anything.

Conflict Resolution And Transformation

Conflict Resolution And Transformation Conflict resolution and transformation are issues which have become very topical in debates and discussions on Zimbabwe. This is not only because Zimbabwe is characterised by many conflicts, but much more so due to the realization that in most cases the conflicts have negative impacts the a nations socio-economic and political development. Thus conflict resolution and peace building processes have become very essential in solving the problem of conflicts in the country. This chapter intends to examine the grassroots conflict resolution and peace building processes in Zimbabwe with a focus on Tongogara district as case study. It will also seek to explore the context, in which traditional leaders operate, the processes that link them to the people as well as how other scholars view them in terms of their effectiveness. Saunders (2000) defined literature review as a search and evaluation of the available literature in a given subject or area. Reviewing related literature helps the researcher gain insight on what other researchers have done and establishes existing gaps which the research seeks to ultimately fill. Punch (1998) considers the review of related literature as a researchers roadmap in the quest to convert tentative research problems to a detailed and concise plan of action. Lincoln (2005) augments the same notion by suggesting that it is of importance to be guided by related literature as this will equip the researcher with requisite skills to evaluate various viewpoints basing on the work that other researchers have done. The literature reviewed in this chapter seeks to analyse the role of traditional leaders in conflict transformation, the concept of conflict transformation, the common conflicts experienced at grassroots level and more importantly the approaches that are used by the traditional authorities in transforming conflicts. It further seeks to examine the theoretical and scholarly perspectives on the effectiveness of community processes that are employed in conflict management and peace building. 2.1 Background to conflict theory The period from 1970 to the present, has witnessed a remarkable interest in studies in conflict management and transformation. This was motivated by a number of factors which include ideological changes in the international system, the independence of most African states and the rise of many civil wars in Africa and the rise of new actors in conflict resolution paradigm. Interestingly however, most of the literature produced focuses mainly on the documentation of conflicts, their nature, and types of resolution that can be achieved neglecting the area of conflict prevention, resolution, transformation and management; hence the need to research on the practical ways that can help in the achievement of sustainable peace especially at grassroot level. Gaps have also been noticed in terms of the level at which conflict analysis is taking place as many scholars tend to place conflict resolution and transformation at the high level of governance not considering that many causes of conflict are deeply rooted in the grassroots and require the grassroots level actors to act on them to achieve sustainable peace and development. Sandy (2004) places emphasis on the conditions that are necessary for the transformation of conflicts. He argues that any attempt to articulate the nature of conflict and conflict resolution, must address those conditions, which are favourable for its emergence. He mentioned participation, engagement, freedom, justice and human rights as pre requisites for the achievement of conflict transformation. Sandy (2004) also mentioned the need for Community building and democratization as important strategies in conflict resolution and transformation .However Sandy does not unpack on how the democratization and community building can be used to achieve conflict transformation at the lowest level of governance where there are traditional leaders and councillors as key actors in governance. This therefore leaves out players like the grass root leaders and other influential people in the communities who are also important in peace building. The Online Journal of Peace and Conflict Resolution (2 010) focuses on definitions of peace and conflict, bringing the different kinds of peace that are there and the pre-requisites for conflict transformation and peace , the mechanisms of achieving this peace is however often overlooked. This therefore leaves a gap in terms of literature that explores practical ways of resolving conflicts and peace building, Rumel (2004) looks at alternative concepts of conflict resolution and the principles underlying those concepts. He mentions peace, as being a state of mind, that is, if the mind is at rest, then it follows that there will be peace and vice versa. Rumel (2004) views the human mind, as major contributor to conflict as he points out that, for as long as one has unsatisfied desires he/she wont be at harmony with the others. He brings out an important aspect in conflict transformation when he states that a human being needs to be satisfied with oneself and the outcome of any resolution exercise that maybe employed. Harris and Reilly (2005), emphasize the need to build a strong grassroots background as critical in addressing deeply rooted conflicts. They emphasise on the importance of addressing the root causes of conflicts through the involvement of parties involved in the conflicts. Their focus is however more inclined to ethnic conflicts and tribal conflicts, as they believe these conflicts are more a result of identity than anything else. This work is important, as it looks some of the practical ways in conflict resolution that are needed to achieve peace more so at grassroots level as most ethnic and tribal conflict are noticed at lower levels of administration like the districts and the villages. Most of the literature on conflict turns a blind eye on the role of grassroots actors in conflict transformation as usually their focus is large scale level, this often does not bring sustainability and progressive development, moreover this also leads to the extinction or decline in relevance of the grassroots approaches that are being used in the rural communities in developing countries. 2.2 The concept of Conflict transformation Conflict transformation is the term that has come into common usage over the years from the early 1980s, as a concept and a process that encompasses various aspects of conflict prevention, peace building, supporting local capacities for peace and transformational development. Conflict transformation arose as an alternative to the dominant paradigms of conflict resolution. As advocated by Lederach (1995), conflict transformation was conceptualized to provide a comprehensive framework for addressing conflict throughout its phases, that is from the initial stages of indirect conflict, to full-scale direct conflict to lastly, its resolution. Conflict transformation seeks to address questions often neglected on conflict resolution; structural violence, culture and cultural identity and the role individuals can play in diminishing conflict intensity and duration (Miall et al 1999). However, conflict transformation has also been articulated as an extension of current practices incorporated in peace-building (Miall et al 1999). This distinction does not however, affect the primary goals and objectives of a transformational approach. A number of conflicts theorists like Lederach (1998) advocate for the pursuit of conflict transformation as opposed to conflict resolution and conflict management, this according to Lederach (2000) is because conflict transformation reflects a better understanding of the nature of conflict itself. Conflict resolution implies that conflict is bad hence something bad should be ended thus conflict can be resolved permanently though mediation and other intervention processes, conflict management on the other hand correctly assumes that conflicts are long term processes that people can be directed or controlled as though they were physical objects (Lederach 2000). Furthermore Conflict transformation as put by Lederach does not suggest that we simply eliminate or control conflicts but rather work with its dialectic nature, this takes into cognisance the fact that conflict is social and naturally created by humans who are involved in relationships, it changes (transforms) these events, peop le, relationships that created the initial conflict. The cause and effect relationships thus goes both ways from the people and relationships to the conflict and then back to the people and the relationships (Vayrnen 1991), thus in this sense conflict transformation describes a natural occurrence. Conflict Transformation also involves transforming the way conflicts are expressed, it may be expressed competitively, aggressively or violently or it may be expressed through nonviolent advocacy, coalition or attempted cooperation (Lederach 1998) .The Centre for Conflict Dynamics(CCD 2009) views conflict transformation as a process by which conflicts such as ethnic conflicts are transformed into peaceful outcomes , it is therefore a process of engaging with and transforming the relationship, interests, discourses and if necessary the very constitution of society that support the continuation of violent conflict. In support of this view by CCD (2009), The Search for Common Ground (SFCG 2010) sees conflict transformation as initiatives that are often characterised by long time horizons and interventions at multiple levels, aimed at changing perceptions and improving relationships and addressing the roots of the conflict including inequality and social justice. Conflict transformation theory recognises the need to transform the conflict at a number of levels. Vayrnen (1991) identifies five transformations that need to occur in order to have a positive shift in the conflict. These are context transformation, structural transformation, actor transformation, issue transformation and individual / group transformation. This approach to conflict transformation acknowledges the multi-dimensional nature of conflict. 2.2.1 Principles of conflict transformation Burton 1996 identifies several principles to which he argues form the backbone of a conflict transformation process. Conflict should not be regarded as an isolated event that can be resolved or managed but as an integral part of societys on-going evolution and development. Conflicts should not be understood sorely as inherently negative and destructive occurrence but rather as a potentially positive and productive force of change if harnessed constructively. Conflict transformation goes beyond merely seeking to contain and manage conflict, instead seeking to transform root causes of a particular conflict. Conflict transformation is a long term gradual and complex process requiring sustained engagement and interaction. Conflict transformation is not just an approach and set of techniques but a way of thinking about and understanding conflict itself. Conflict transformation is particularly intended for intractable conflicts, with deep rooted issues. 2.3 Background to Traditional Leadership in Zimbabwe Ranger (1996) poses that the institution of traditional leadership has been around in Africa from time immemorial, traditional leaders are according to ranger the politicians of the pre-colonial age. At independence in 1980, Chieftainship was retained as a symbol of traditional values but the chiefs themselves were stripped of all their administrative and judicial functions. The chiefs and headman even lost their tax collecting functions as well as some administrative customary functions. District Councils assumed the administrative functions previously performed by traditional rulers whilst community courts took over the judicial functions. Ncube (2011) posts that the failure by the new government to incorporate and co-opt traditional institutions into formal state institutions in the first decades of independence lies at the heart of the confusion surrounding local administration in the communal areas after independence, this confusion was characterised by lack of clarity on the roles and functions between the Traditional institutions of Chiefs, Headman and Village Heads and the elected leadership of Village Development Committees (VIDCOs) and Ward Development Committees WADCOs in land matters. This precipitated a crisis of communal leadership in the communal areas of Zimbabwe whereby the legitimacy of the traditional institutions began to be questioned .Ncube (2011) further states that the powers of the traditional leaders were becoming defunct in many areas of the country, some chiefs, headman and village heads required some of their defunct authority over land proceeded to clandestinely allocate land, this land allo cation has become the common source of conflicts in Zimbabwes rural areas, thus the crisis of communal leadership sufficed itself in many land conflicts which occurred throughout the country The Zimbabwe governance system like in most African countries is characterised by co-existence of hereditary chieftainship and a democratically elected leadership. Traditional leadership is active at all levels of governance in Zimbabwe from the national level to the village level. At the highest level of the institution is the Chief, at the middle of the hierarchy is the office of the Headman and at the lowest tier which is village level is the Village Head , These institutions are established by the Traditional Leaders Act which recognises the role of each office in community development and peace building. The institution of traditional leadership is also recognised by the constitution, unlike local government that is created by statutes of Parliament. There are however conflicting claims to legitimacy and uneasy co-existence between traditional and elected leadership. Traditional leadership and local government officials occasionally trade accusations of abuse of power, non-compl iance with laws; customs and traditions, especially regarding allocation and management of resources such as land which forms the prevalent source of most conflicts in communal areas The Headman has functions similar to those of the Chief on a delegated basis but he is also the chair of Ward Assembly meetings. Since the Village Head chairs both the VIDCO and Village Assembly, the VIDCOs survive on the hard work of the Village Head and in a number of cases the VIDCOs no longer operating with all VIDCO functions being performed by the Village Head whilst in some cases VIDCOs are only seen to be operating when land disputes and resource conflicts emanate (Moyo, 2006) 2.3.2 The rural Governance nucleus The above diagram gives an explanation on the relationship in rural governance. The people form the core of governance and everything that is done at local level. The Africa Community Publishing and Development Trust (ACPDT 2010) explains that the authority in the rural areas rise with rank from the ordinary citizen or resident of a local area until it reaches the level of the rural district council. Which form the overall leadership in terms of development policies in Zimbabwean rural areas? the powers of the village heads are less than that of the headman as given in the traditional leaders Act cap 29.17(111) section 11, whilst those of the Headman are more than those of the Village heads but less than those of the chief in terms of the same Act (section 6 and 8; Traditional Leaders Act). Matibenga (2010) Asserts that in conflict resolution, if a village head fails to solve a community conflict issue, they refer it to the headman and if a headman fails again that same issue is referred to the Chief, the Chief is the highest traditional authority in rural areas. Ncube (2011) however argues on the same line but stating differently that these hierarchies in the rural areas are the primary causes of conflicts in rural Zimbabwe, this is because there are conflicts between these traditional leaders themselves in terms of responsibilities as one can easily see that the Chief has no limits over his jurisdiction in the discharge of traditional authority, The chief has the power according to the Traditional Leaders Act and the Customary Law and Local Courts Act to deal with issues even those that can be adjudicated by the lower authority of traditional leadership as such this causes dissatisfaction amongst the headman and village heads, as a result if the lower authority try to adjudicated the same type of conflicts in future, their authority is easily undermined and as such this reduces their relevance in dealing with traditional matters. This duplication of duties has been going on well for quite some time and has thus undermined the co-existence of these traditional leaders and as such reduced the impact of the grassroots approaches to conflict transformation by the traditional authorities. 2.4 Aims of grassroots conflict resolution 2.4.1 Empowering the community Kubasu (2008) observes that grassroots approaches to conflict resolution by traditional leaders seek to re-empower communities to make vital decisions and address the needs of their people as well as create an environment more conducive to lasting peace. This is because empowering the traditional leader is empowering the community as the community banks on its leadership for progress, opinion and development. 2.4.2 Restoration of Order and Relationships From a traditional point of view, conflict is perceived as an unwelcome disturbance of the relationships within the community. Hence traditional conflict transformation aims at the restoration of order and harmony of the community. Cooperation between conflict parties in the future has to be guaranteed. Traditional conflict management is thus geared towards the future (Mare. 2004). Consequently, the issue is not punishment of perpetrators for deeds done in the past, but restitution as a basis for reconciliation. Reconciliation is necessary for the restoration of social harmony of the community in general and of social relationships between conflict parties in particular. The aim as put by Kubasu (2008) is not to punish, an action which would be viewed as harming the group a second time. The ultimate aim of conflict transformation thus is the restoration of relationships Another immediate objective of such conflict resolution is to mend the broken or damaged relationship, and rectify wrongs, and restore justice (Moyo 2009). This is to ensure the full integration of parties into their societies again (Bob-Manuel: 2006), and to adopt the mood of co-operation for progressive development. 2.4.3 Transforming societies Other long term aims are based on building harmony in the community. It has been realised that tolerance is not maintained automatically, and should purposefully be aimed at and worked for. The Kpelle people of Liberia of West Africa are known for their ad hoc local meetings called moots or community palavers, where the conflicting parties arrive at mediated settlements through the use of experienced traditional leader (Bob-Manuel 2006). Bob-Manuel (2006) further tells that among the Ndendeuli of Tanzania, grasroot actors play active roles in conflict solving by suggesting an agreement and get as far as pressurising the parties into accepting it. Pressurising can be done through talking or singing: shaming and ridiculing. This special method can be used in contexts where it is acceptable and in instances where the cause of the dispute is self- evident. 2.5 The importance of Grassroots actors Grassroots actors are well positioned to address matters of community building, and identity formation. This is so due to a number of reasons as noted by Wilson (2001). Firstly, grassroots actors are positioned within the communities that they are working. These places them in close proximity to each individual which builds trust, respect and confidence between those directly involved in the conflict. Wilson (2001) points out that the Volunteer conflict transformation project in the rural provinces of Rwanda was widely accepted because grassroots actors were integrated into the local planning processes which catered for developmental needs of the community. Traditional approaches focus on the psycho-social and spiritual dimension of violent conflicts and their transformation. This dimension tends to be underestimated by actors who are brought up and think in the context of western enlightenment (Dore 1995). Conflict transformation and peace-building is not only about negotiations, political solutions and material reconstruction, but also about reconciliation and mental and spiritual healing. Traditional approaches have a lot to offer in this regard. They do not only deal with material issues, reason and talk, but also with the spiritual world, feelings and non-verbal communication. Thus Dore (1995) further highlights that reconciliation as the basis for the restoration of communal harmony and relationships is at the heart of customary conflict resolution. When dealing with conflicts based in a Third World or non-Western society, action or interference from external factors, such as International Non-Government Organisations, is often regarded as culturally insensitive or an act of Western imperialism (Solomon and Mangqibisa 2000). This perception of outside interference affects the prospects of conflict transformation as external actors intervening in the conflict often have established methods of interaction that often disregard traditions of conflict resolution that are evident in conflict-ridden societies (Solomon and Mngqibisa 2000). Grassroots actors are however, often familiar with particularistic traditions of community-building. As these are more likely to be positively received by the people, traditional methods are more conducive to peace promotion and enduring stability and cooperation within the society. Traditional approaches are holistic, comprising also social, economic, cultural and religious-spiritual dimensions. This is in accordance with the entirety of traditional lifestyles and world views in which the different spheres of societal life are hardly separated. (Kubasu 2008)The conflict parties can directly engage in negotiations on conflict termination and in the search for a solution, or a third party can be invited to mediate; in any case the process is public, and the participation in the process and the approval of results is voluntary. It is carried out by social groups in the interest of social groups (extended families, clans, village communities, tribes, brotherhoods, etc.); individuals are perceived as members of a group, they are accountable to that group, and the group is accountable for (the deeds of) each of its members. Kubasu (2008) advances that grassroot action provides an invaluable contribution to the process and substance of conflict transformation. Through their position in the socio-political hierarchy, Traditional leaders are well placed to address issues of identity and may often initiate change in an environment generally un-conducive to larger scale attempts at conflict resolution. Whilst the activities engaged by grassroots actors is largely context specific, conflict transformation theorists and practitioners can look to the success of different grassroots initiatives to build upon the current literature. 2.5.1 Comparison between grassroots conflict transformation and Morden conflict resolution Table 1(Adopted from Kubasu 2008) Traditional conflict resolution values Morden Judgement handed down by the traditional leader whose throne is hereditary and his assessors selected on their merits Judgement handed down by judges whose office is conferred on them through formal qualifications Peaceful resolution and recourse to justice Frequent recourse to revenge and violence, without waiting for justice Concern to reconcile the parties in conflict Judgements are categorical. There is no concern to bring together the parties to the conflict, nor for any later outcome The traditional leaders act out of a spirit of honesty, impartiality and fairness They offer their services voluntarily Bureaucratic and (at times) corrupt mentality Paid work Justice by the people involving everyone (everyone can come to listen and give an opinion)at the dares or village circles Justice is the province of a particular group of people (those with formal qualifications) Lengthy judicial process Disputes settled quickly or over a period of time(transformative) Moral and social sanctions Physical punishment and material fines Torture and imprisonment(does not create social harmony) Divesting individuals of their functions Being discredited in others eyes Being marginalized Paying fines Once the penalty has been paid, no further reference made to offences committed 2.5.2 Conflict Mapping and Analysis Processes of conflict resolution in Africa are characterised by three dimensions which include the nature of conflicts, conflict resolution mechanisms and the outcome of such mechanisms. In understanding the nature of conflicts, first there is need to identify types of conflicts (Maruta and Mpofu: 2004). There have been different ways of identifying types of conflicts. One way is in terms of complexity. It has been observed that in Zimbabwe there are simple and complex types of conflicts (Alexander 1995). Most of the conflicts have been and continue to be complex. The second way is in terms of duration. In this context there are short lived and protracted conflicts. Protracted conflicts are the most common in rural Zimbabwe these include conflicts of resources especially land and well as ethnic or tribal issues .In the Midlands and Matabeleland were protracted conflicts and civil wars that came after independence . The third way is in terms of violence. There are conflicts which are violent and those which are non-violent. Some people have characterised the non-violent conflicts as latent or structured conflicts (Fisher 2007). However, most conflicts which have been studied and which have drawn greater attention are violent conflicts which have involved bloodshed. Although most conflict resolution measures have been taken on violent conflicts, there have also been situations when conflict resolution measures have been made on latent conflicts. For example the latent conflict between traditional leaders and elected councillors in the Zibabgwe district of Kwekwe gave rise to a process of peace negotiations under the auspices of the Centre for Conflict Management and Transformation (Mpangala, 2000). The fourth way of identifying types of conflicts is in terms of the scale of the conflict. In this context conflicts in rural areas have been categorised as either resource or political conflicts, with a few tribal and household conflicts 2.5.3 The effect of political involvement Sometimes the role of traditional leaders as champions of conflict transformation and good governance is compromised by their involvement in politics, this motivates the people to challenge their legitimacy and the validity of their judgements, and as such this affects their leadership capabilities. The Newsday(2012) reported that the institution of the traditional leadership has come under spotlight following the governments intention to bestow greater powers on the traditional leaders , the argument here is that the age old concept of traditional leaders remaining mere custodians of cultural values and interceding with the ancestors has been turned head on as a ruling government seeks to enhance their political expediency though influencing traditional leaders, Kubatana(2012) supports this by quoting President Mugabes speech when he said chiefs should no longer remain repositories of oral history You should be guardians of our national sovereignty and guard against those who delight in associating with our detractors and those who work in cahoots with the powers that seek to mislead our people(Kubatana :2012) Mararike (2011) observes that although there is need to improve the role and operations of chiefs , greater caution should be taken to prevent abuse of any authority guaranteed , traditional leaders are unable to operate effectively because of the dualism of using the Roman Dutch Law as the basis of our legal system and the traditional system hence there could be serious problems unless the traditional system of government is clearly separated from the political party system whereby traditional leaders are separated in a non-partisan way Few traditional leaders have legal remaining to despise Morden forms of justice their judgement and authority can be easily contested and overlooked, the Chief Negomo vs. the Prime minister Tsvangirai issue is one such example of a situation where traditional leaders are oblivion to address community issues but go on to fight the politicians, however they end up with their decisions overlooked and their legitimacy questioned, Mararike (2011) further argues that the current crop of traditional leaders have no capacity , he argues that young ,educated and professional men should be appointed as chiefs otherwise the current crop would need support staff to dispense justice without biases among rural communities. 2.6 The Traditional Conflict Transformation approaches During the years of traditional leadership in Africa various conflicts caused by different issues attracted various approaches to their resolution. Most conflicts and their resolution methods at that time were predominantly local. Conflicts were between individuals, villages, communities or tribes who lived in the same or adjoining areas. Those who intervened were often local elders and /or tribal leaders. When kingdoms developed about the 17th and 18th century in southern Africa, stronger and wider authority came into power, but the traditional methods of instigating and resolving conflicts had gone through very small changes and are now gradually starting their process of decline. 2.6.1 Mediation Mediation is defined as an attempt to settle a dispute through an active participation of a third party(Mediator) who works to find points of agreement and make those in conflict agree on a fair result. The Harvard journal of Conflict Studies (Nov 2008) defines mediation as an act of reconciliation that is trying to unite and reach an agreement between conflicting parties. The chiefs and headman are respected as trustworthy mediators all over Africa, because of their accumulated experience and wisdom as they are usually of an elderly age. Their role as mediators would depend on traditions, circumstances and personalities, accordingly of their society. These roles include: pressurising or manipulating conflicting parties to reach an agreement, making recommendations, giving assessment, conveying suggestions on behalf of a party. Behaviour used is facilitation, through clarifying information, promoting clear communication, interpreting standpoints, summarising discussions, emphasising relevant norms or rules, envisaging the situation if agreement is not reached, or repeating of the agreement already attained. The mediators can also remain passive, as they are there to represent important shared values. There is no predetermined model, so they are entitled to change their roles fr

FOOTPRINTS IN THE SAND :: essays papers

FOOTPRINTS IN THE SAND Tears rolled down my face as I tried to smile. Prolonging the dreaded good-bye, I kept busy organizing the small stuff in her new home. Her home with out me. It was one of those moments I anticipated but would not accept the reality until the time finally came. I had never been good with good-byes. An hour later, my dad looked at me and I knew this time we were leaving. I had given her a hug without looking at her and we whispered I love you’s to each other. She was having a hard enough time leaving everything behind so I wanted to stay strong for her. I wanted to stay. Walking from that dorm room felt like I was saying good-bye to my very best friend. As I reached the car and we drove off I began to cry, trying hard not to let my dad see. I did not want to talk about it. Through life, many people turn away but family is always there. When you are away from the ones that mean the most to you, it is then when you realize how much they mean to you. Just like the old saying goes, â€Å"absence makes the heart grow fonder†. I found this saying to be true when my oldest and only sister moved away for the first time to go to college. Losing one mom was hard enough but when I had to say goodbye to my second I thought I was going to die. On March 12, 1992 my mother passed away of acute leukemia and my older sister moved up in the family tree. She became my mother, my sister, and my best friend. When she left, it was hard to imagine life without her around. We seem to be the perfect age apart to completely understand each other. She is the person who keeps me going. She is my conscience and role model. She teaches me everyday to live and learn and always try my best. My friends and father all mean so much to me but whenever anything goes wrong my very first reaction is â€Å"What will Allison think? What would she say?† In 1936, many say that 14 year-old Mary Stevenson wrote the poem

Effects Of Smoking Ban On Students Education Essay

AbstractionThe school smoking prohibition policy has been recommended and even implemented in assorted establishments but many inquiries are still being raised about its significance and how effectual it is to the targeted population. This survey seeks to happen out whether it is necessary to hold smoking prohibition policy in schools and whether it has an consequence on the overall life of the pupils. The survey besides aims at happening out how effectual smoke prohibition policy can be and the appropriate scheme that should be applied to do it effectual. In order to happen out these the survey will affect aggregation of informations both from primary and secondary beginnings which will so be verified, analyzed, and a study prepared. The result of this research will be of import to the implementers of smoking prohibition in schools as it will assist them maximise the benefits associated with such a policy.IntroductionThe execution of tobacco-free environments in school is now a comm on tendency in most parts of the universe and this follows a recommendation by the Center for Disease Control ( CDC, 1994 ) . This recommendation was one of the tools that was aimed at commanding smoke among the young persons therefore it was a scheme that targeted the young persons and included the prohibition of smoking within the school premises or belongings including at events that involved schools even when taking topographic point off from the school ( CDC, 1994 ) . It non merely restricted pupils but besides school forces and visitants were included in this bracket provided they were within the restricted zones and events. This policy has nevertheless been defined otherwise from one part to another, either manner the above elements must be addressed and included in the definition ( Small et al, 2001 ) .PurposesIt is a common pattern that before any policy is recommended or implemented significant grounds must be provided to demo that it is truly important and will run into t he intended ends non burying to advert the effects that it may hold on the targeted group and the community at big. Such issues have ever led to many inquiries being asked most of which can merely be answered through research or related surveies. The smoke prohibition is one of such issues and has ever faced a figure of unfavorable judgments and support in about equal proportion since it is an issue that touches the day-to-day lives of many. The fact people are free to smoke anyplace and at anytime greatly affects the life of non-smokers negatively while is enjoyed by tobacco users ; conversely, smoking limitations is good intelligence to non-smokers but bad intelligence to tobacco users therefore such policies need appropriate and in-depth analysis before they are implemented. The chief purpose of this research will be to happen out the relationship between the smoke prohibition and the academic public presentation of pupils and to assist in this the undermentioned inquiry will be answered ; is school smoking prohibitions helpful or harmful to pupils? This will so take to other sub-questions which include ; is there a relationship between smoking prohibitions and smoking prevalence among pupils? Does school smoke prohibitions relate to the academic accomplishment of pupils? What is the best scheme to censor smoke in schools? Does the socioeconomic position of the pupils have an consequence on the result of smoking prohibition policy?AimsPresently there are many instances of school agitations caused by pupils through work stoppages which lead to break of activities and even devastation of belongings. Such actions have more frequently been associated to drug and substance usage among pupils which include smoke, imbibing and other manners of administrating dr ugs. This has besides led to the drastic decrease on public presentation degrees of pupils. Since all these are unwanted occurrences there has been changeless hunt on the possible and most effectual agencies of commanding and at best wholly conveying to an terminal the usage of drugs in schools and all educational establishments. Smoking prohibition in schools has been one of the recommendations that have been put frontward but has faced several challenges with a batch of inquiries being raised on the effectivity of such a move, this has truly affected the execution of this smoke prohibition policy. It is hence really necessary that the arising inquiries be answered and put clearly to be understood so as to ease its execution and the best manner to happen these replies is through research. Given that this survey will non merely happen out the importance of smoking prohibition on schools but besides seek to work out the mystifier on the effectivity of such prohibitions, it will be a really important tool to the implementers of such policies. Through the usage of the consequences of this research schools will be able to place whether it is deserving presenting such a policy, where they have non been, or keeping the policy, in a instance where they exist. At the same clip, the concerned implementers will place the right schemes to be used to implement smoking prohibition policy in schools. Sing these benefits, it is obvious that this research will be important to the community at big since it addresses an issue that is of great concern among the communities in all districts. Since it touches on the young person who are ever looked upon for future prosperity of any state, the significance will finally be felt all through the state and even beyond boundary lines.Literature reappraisalMany young persons get initiated into smoking through many ways and by different persons, this is a wont that they continue with and ne'er program to discontinue about throughout their lives and many factors have been pointed out to do this ( Abernathy et al, 2002 ; Conrad et Al, 1992 ) . Even though school smoke prohibition is the cosmopolitan recommendation towards halting this wont, there is no touchable grounds that this policy when implemented in isolation leads to a lessening in the prevalence of smoke among pupils and the young person ( Moore et Al, 2006 ; Darling et Al, 2006 ; Kumar et Al, 2005 ; Pentz et Al, 1989 ) . Current surveies have suggested a figure of defects related to the execution of school smoking prohibition such as ineffectualness and the fact that such regulations may be unkind. Smoke and the related wellness behaviours are influenced by such factors as socioeconomic position, instruction, and the general societal environment ( Evans et al, 1994 ; Harris et Al, 2009 ; Lowry et Al, 1996 ) . It has been argued that there are pupils who find themselves initiated into smoking through agencies beyond their control, hence, such pupils may be victims of the unintended load brought by school smoke policy ( Martin et al, 2000 ) . Records late presented indicate that there has been a decrease in smoke in developed states over the past decennary, the states that have had this noteworthy alteration include Canada, Australia, the United States, and a figure of states within Europe ( CDC, 2003 ; van der Wilk & A ; Jansen, 2005 ) . This decrease is nevertheless non due to the school smoke prohibition but is attributed to the extended control schemes that have been applied in these states which include Torahs on revenue enhancement and location of smoke, and societal selling. The fact that many schools have implemented the school smoking prohibition policy since its debut by the Center for Disease Control, irrespective of whether it is effectual or non, has shown that many schools recognize the inauspicious effects of smoke and are ready to work with the wellness sector in making a society which is ‘smoke-free ‘ .MethodologyThis research aims at following a population wellness model of adolescent smoke a s this is viewed to be the perfect population given the aim of the research. With mention to the work of Leatherdale and others ( 2005 ) , a theory was formulated saying that there is a direct connexion between the smoke of young person within the school premises and the subsequent smoke of other pupils. This theory echoes the sentiments expressed by the â€Å" contagious disease theoretical account of adolescent substance usage † which indicate that substance usage among striplings is extremely caused by one-on-one interaction and besides those expressed by other surveies. This research intends to use the multi-level analytical analysis techniques to help in proving for the impact that smoking prohibition has on smoking abetment, these techniques will be used to analyze both school-level and single factors at the same time. The research will besides concentrate on disaffection and school drop-out through the usage of academic public presentation which will move as an alternate index of the former and as a precursor to the latter taking to a hypothesis associating the academic public presentation and being of regulations against smoking in schools. The hypothesis is that the academic public presentation of pupils in schools holding regulations on smoke or smoke prohibitions will be better compared the academic public presentation of the pupils in schools that do non hold such regulations or policies. This besides includes consciousness of the pupils in such schools of the being of such regulations or policies. It will besides be necessary to explicate m ulti-level theoretical accounts holding in head the guidelines given by Aveyard et Al ( 2004 ) which advise on the application of single -level features over-controlling. In these guidelines they argue that it is non in order to command for single degree features in a instance where the multi-level surveies are school-based this is because such characteristics are linked both to the person and the school environment.Research designThe research intends to establish on pupils in different parts, such as different states, and utilize a sample design which is single-stage. In this sample design categories are indiscriminately selected and the stratification is done harmonizing to class and school territory and attempts to integrate all pupils who are present on the twenty-four hours of the survey. Before transporting out the research though, it will be of import to acquire consent from the parents of such pupils which follow the demands put frontward by the several heath and instruction sections. In order to roll up equal information, the survey will utilize questionnaires consisting several points ; these points will seek to happen information sing school regulations, smoke and substance usage, mental wellness, and societal and demographic features. To guarantee that the information collected will be dependable and valid, a really broad population of pupils will be covered and the respondents will be accorded namelessness unless otherwise they do non necessitate it. The information will besides be compared to the available informations from similar studies to look into for consistence particularly where estimations are involved. The survey may nevertheless confront restrictions which may include inability to roll up information about school smoke policy from the decision makers therefore the information provided by the pupils will be indispensable every bit limited as they may look.Inclusion/exclusion standardsIndividual-level variables The primary single degree variable that would be considered is the being of regulations censoring smoking harmonizing to the consciousness of the pupil, this will be found out by presenting a inquiry that straight asks this and giving the pupil an option of giving a straightforward reply to the inquiry. The other variables that will be taken into consideration at the single degree during the research will be grade, gender, abode, socioeconomic position of the household, and highest degree of instruction of one of the parents, sooner the female parent, which is besides a socioeconomic degree index. All these variables are viewed to hold a direct consequence on the pupil as an single therefore are of import to see ( Fagan et al, 2005 ) . School-level variables There are variables that will be considered at school-level and these will be generated from the responses or informations collected from the single variables. The first variable in this instance is the prevalence of regulations or policy censoring smoke in schools and this will be deduced from the responses given by the pupils as persons and will bespeak the mean per centum of schools that have such regulations. This research is expected to take three hebdomads divided into three subdivisions that are back-to-back and each enduring a hebdomad. The subdivisions will be the pre-study hebdomad, the intercession hebdomad, and the post-study hebdomad in that order. The pre-study hebdomad will be utilized by detecting the smoke behaviours of persons in all the targeted groups and their interaction with pupils, the intercession hebdomad will be for roll uping the needed information through the agencies that have been identified, and the post-study hebdomad will be for analysing the information collected and coming up with a study.Ethical considerationSmoke is a wont that has been embraced by many and more are still fall ining the conference of tobacco users therefore it is an issue that is really sensitive to manage. Apart from holding a societal consequence on persons, it besides touches on the economic system since the concern of coffin nails generates high degree of gross and besides provides em ployment to a good figure of persons. Recommending and implementing any policy that seems to deter of hinder the sale and usage of coffin nails ever draws assorted reactions from the general population ; school smoke prohibition is one such policy. It is therefore the consideration of the survey non to disregard such possible reactions and will avoid being personal on any issue throughout the research procedure. The survey will lodge to the issues that it targets without affecting on other issues that are non connected in any manner to the survey.ResultsThose back uping smoking-free school policies argue that pupils are straight affected by the smoke of those persons who they view as their function theoretical accounts in the community and these include non merely grownups but besides fellow young persons who are ever around them. Their attitudes and development of involvement are based on the mode in which people around them handle smoking and how they talk about it and most of the times they will be given to emulate them. There is experimental grounds that have been put frontward with respect to this which indicates that most pupils tend to copy other young persons who smoke within school belongings Oklahoman or subsequently. With respect to this so it is right to province that schools holding smoking prohibitions should register low smoke rates among the pupils both within and outside school. Given that it is non easy to state precisely what per centum of success of non-smoking sum pupils is attributed to smoking prohibitions, there have been assorted grounds with respect to the effectivity of smoking prohibitions. In order to stop this statement so there should be a manner of turn outing that smoking prohibitions have really discouraged the young persons from smoking or affecting in smoking related activities. A figure of surveies have been carried out to happen this and a few have come out with the decision that there is a relationship between smoking prohibitions and decreased smoke among pupils and farther stressing that this greatly relied on the mode in which such a policy is enforced. Conversely, other surveies did non successfully show the nexus that exists between smoking prevalence in schools and smoking prohibition policy in schools. The differences that appear in these are surveies are due to several factors such as the fluctuations in the schemes of implement ing and implementing the policy, the purpose behind such policy, and the extent of coverage in footings of population and length of clip. In add-on to these it has been found that there are great fluctuations in the countenances imposed on lawbreakers and the degree of their enforcement, this is apparent both within and outside a individual authorization. The undermentioned hypotheses were therefore put forward: All the pupils who said that their schools had non adopted the school smoke prohibition policies, or those who were non cognizant of the being of such policies would be extremely exposed to the hazard of smoking induction when compared to their chaps who were in schools where the policy was embraced and the pupils were cognizant of its being notwithstanding the rates of smoke. Students who were in schools with regulations on smoking would appreciate the significance of holding protective mechanisms on smoking induction as compared to pupils from schools that do non hold such regulations. This implies that smoking prohibition would impact positively on the pupils in footings of attitude which would interpret to cut down smoke rates among the young person. The socioeconomic position of the pupils would be of great influence to the consequences without sing the handiness of the smoke prohibition policy in schools.