Hope Springs Eternal: Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption by Stephen

Hope Springs Eternal: Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption by Stephen King A wise man once said, â€Å"Memory is the library of the mind.† All of the events in one’s life, ranging from birth to the present, are stored in this complex catalog of experience. There they remain untouched and collecting dust until a time of need, much like the scores of books found in today’s libraries. No matter how obscure, their topics represent the various trials of life that build one’s character and forever serve as the most reliable source of the human psyche. The novella, â€Å"Hope Springs Eternal: Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption†, is part of a collection of stories that comprise Stephen King’s book Different Seasons which was first published in 1983. It is the story of Andy Dufresne, a successful banker incarcerated, despite his innocence, for the murder of his wife and her lover. Leaving behind not only his status, but every known aspect of his life up until this point, Andy is submerged in a culture he knows not hing about. However, he manages to adapt to these unfamiliar surroundings through the use of his former knowledge and keen intellect. King uses Andy’s character as a liaison to convey the concept of memory within the novella. He outlines the stages in Andy’s journey throughout his time in Shawshank Federal Prison by highlighting the many channels in which his wisdom aids him. Furthermore, King shows the reader how this passage develops Andy as a person through the different ways he utilizes this remembrance, both for his benefit and that of others. Andy’s heroic metamorphosis provides a template for the different perceptions of memory within the text; such as that of a self-fulfilling resource, liberating gift to othe... ...ins the reader in experiencing the transformation of Andy as a character and the unavoidable sentiments that ingrain themselves into the human psyche. By delving into this unique harmony between the feelings of both author and reader, one can come to further comprehend the questions King is bringing to the table and his premeditated goal for this work. What does it mean to truly become a legend and why does Andy Dufresne so beautifully embody this definition? These are queries that we can only begin to answer and are an active ingredient of what makes Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption the literary marvel that it is. Works Consulted Cormier, Robert. I am the Cheese. New York: Dell Laurel-Leaf, 1991. King, Stephen. â€Å"Hope Springs Eternal: Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption.† Different Seasons. New York: New American Library, 1983. (15-107).

Core Ideas Of Liberalism and Conservatism

Struggle between liberal and conservative tendencies is, perhaps, the key element for understanding the political life of the west in the last three centuries. So, in order to understand this struggle one needs to understand what are the core ideas of liberalism and conservatism. This paper aims to investigate some of the most prominent example of liberal and conservative political thought. The first basic ideas of liberalism have been explained by John Locke, who explained that â€Å"Adam had not, either by natural right of fatherhood, or by positive donation from God, any such authority over his children, or dominion over the world, as is pretended† (1. 84). Later the state of natural freedom has been replaced by different forms of unjust oppression, and freedom can be restored only by agreement of free individuals making a civil society.   In the world of monarchism this idea sounded revolutionary, but was still far from practical application. Liberal concepts gained much popularity between the Founding Fathers of the United States, as well as later American publicists. Among others they have been explained and practically developed in the Federalist Papers. For example in Paper 51 James Madison investigated the system of checks and balances as a foundation for independent and responsible state power and a guarantee of reservation of liberty and against usurpation. The source of power for Madison is not God or king, for â€Å"the supreme executive, legislative, and judiciary magistracies should be drawn from the same fountain of authority, the people, through channels having no communication whatever with one another† (1. 118). However, liberalism concerns not only the formation of political power, but relations inside the society as well. British philosopher Thomas Hill Green in 1861 wrote about â€Å"the liberation of the powers of all men equally for contributions to a common good† (1.132). And so paradoxically liberalism restricts some forms of civil transaction such as trade of slaves or, for example, those, which jeopardize public health. Liberalism is understood as general state of freedom in the society, which is limited only by freedom of the others and the function of the state in such society is only to protect freedom and never exercise more power, than needed for the interests of liberal society. In contrast to liberalism, conservative ideas gained more popularity in the XIX century and were a sort of reaction to the spread of revolutionary ideas, especially after American and French revolutions, therefore, they have been aimed to limitation of liberalism. As explained by Michael Oakeshott, â€Å"adults who do not consider themselves under any obligation to justify their preferences for making their own choices; and that it is beyond human experience to suppose that those who rule are endowed with a superior wisdom† (1.193). Humans are week, and too much freedom is likely to corrupt the power and ruin the society. Oakeshott’s example is brutal but very persuasive: â€Å"we tolerate monomaniacs, it is our habit to do so; but why should we be ruled by them?† (1.194) Conservatism can be helpful at unstable times and conservative methods of rule like cutting tax rates in order to stimulate steady economic growth or taking control of the media may sometimes serve the public good. Liberalism and conservatism are therefore the two opposite political foundations, neither of which can be obviously preferred of disfavored. The application of liberal and conservative ideas is not a matter of principle, but a matter of current situation. Works Cited: 1. Nancy S. Love. And Dreams: A Reader In Modern Political Ideologies. (CQ Press; 3 edition, 2005)

Beethoven Essays - Age Of Enlightenment, Ludwig Van Beethoven

Beethoven Essays - Age Of Enlightenment, Ludwig Van Beethoven Beethoven Ludwig van Beethoven was a German composer who is considered to be one of the greatest musicians of all time. He was born in Bonn. Beethovens fathers harsh discipline and alcoholism made his childhood and adolescence difficult. After his mothers death, at the age of 18, he placed himself at the head of the family, taking responsibility for his two younger brothers, both of whom followed him when he later moved to Vienna, Austria. In Bonn, Beethovens most important composition teacher was German composer Christian Gottlob Neefe, with whom he studied during the 1780s. Neefe mostly used the music of German composer Johann Sebastian Bach in his instruction. He later encouraged his student to study with Austrian composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, whom Beethoven met briefly in Vienna in 1787. In 1792 Beethoven made another journey to Vienna to study with Austrian composer Joseph Haydn, and he stayed there the rest of his life. Having begun his career as an outstanding improviser at the piano and composer of piano music. Beethoven went on to compose string quartets and other kinds of chamber music, songs, two masses, an opera, and nine symphonies. Perhaps the most famous work of classical music in existence is Beethovens Symphony No.9 in D minor op. 125. Like his opera Fidelio and many other works, the Ninth Symphony depicts an initial struggle with adversity and concludes with an uplifting vision of freedom and social harmony. Yet just as his success seemed assured, he was confronted with the loss of that sense which he depended on, his hearing. This impairment gradually put an end to his performing career. However, Beethovens achievements did not suffer from his hearing loss but instead gained in richness and power over the years. His artistic growth was reflected in a series of masterpieces, including the Symphony No.3, Fidelio, and the Symphony No.5. These works were from his second period, which is called his heroic style. Beethovens fame during his lifetime reached its peak in 1814. The enthusiastic response from the public to his music at this time was focused on showy works, such as Wellingtons Victory. During the last decade of his life Beethoven had almost completely lost his hearing, and he was increasingly socially isolated. Plagued at times by serious illness, Beethoven nevertheless maintained his sense of humor and he often amused himself with jokes and puns. He continued to work at a high level of creativity until he contracted pneumonia in December 1826. He died in Vienna in March 1827. Beethovens music is generally divided into three main creative periods. The first, or early. Period extends to about 1802, when the composer made reference to a new manner or new way in connection with his art. The second, or middle, period extends to about 1812, after the completion of his seventh and Eighth symphonies. The third, or late, period emerged gradually; Beethoven composed its pivotal work, the Hammerklavier Sonata.

Challenges in Managing Service Quality within the Knowledge

Challenges in Managing Service Quality within the Knowledge Abstract Numerous opportunities and challenges exist for service organizations and their customers concerning knowledge-based economy along the effects of information technologies. Knowledge-based economy can impact on management of quality services in the companies.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Challenges in Managing Service Quality within the Knowledge-Based Economy specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The purpose of the current report is to look at some of these influences. The study aspires to elicit the enormous prospects obtained by players in the service sector, especially in areas of value, co-creation and communication. At the same time, the report reveals various problems that face managers as a result of the poor quality provided by services providers. The value of this report consists of revealing the logical links between transformations in the society, changes in the service sector, and improvements in the management of quality service. The report will highlight the increasing importance of service quality management within the knowledge-based economy in the comparison to the industrial economy. Net-working and collaboration, constant development, and value co-creation are factors that determine realization of sustainable competitive advantage through service quality management. A desktop review literature is the basis of this report. The effort dedicated to the improvement of management of service quality and the value of managers in service quality management within service organizations is analyzed in the conclusion of the report.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Introduction Knowledge-based economies are witnessing tremendous changes in management of service quality as a result of information technology and Internet, having arrived into the market. When servi ce organizations communicate directly to customers, networks that are crucial to dissemination of new types of services are created. The purpose of this report is to reveal the impact of knowledge-based economy on management of service quality within organizations as well as the major tests and chances faced by providers in quality service management. The function of developing service quality which is attributed to the management to develop service management process within the confines of knowledge-based economy has constantly generated a lot of debate. The report brings out the influence of the knowledge-based economy on the service quality management through recognizing logical links between transformations in the society, service, and service quality management. Numerous opportunities and challenges exist for service organizations and their customers because of a combination of knowledge-based economy and influence of information Communication and value co-creation offer positi ve prospects to come while serious problems are posed by the need for managers to provide quality services. There has been a change in business operations as a result of fast growth in the use of information and communication technology within society. Information technology is made up of various components including computers, hardware, software, telecommunications, and the ensuing technologies. This technology can be measured through the stock of applications that organizations have (Ruiz-Mercader et al. 2006). Information and communication technology includes the use of computers, networks, and other equipments and software that process and transmit data (Plumb Zamfir, 2009).Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Challenges in Managing Service Quality within the Knowledge-Based Economy specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Exploitation of information and communication technologies requires skills and competence. Growth of the knowledge society has amplified demand for competences (Plumb Zamfir, 2009). Societies have witnessed a significant change in structure and in ways of accessing information (Plumb Zamfir, 2009). Consequently, the service sector has witnessed new challenges as methods of doing business change. Increased service-value networks within high value areas have resulted in surfacing of high-tech services (Qiu 2008). High-tech services include information outsourcing, online sharing of information and knowledge, and demand for innovations consulting like automated business. Electronic services are excellent types of service for the knowledge-based society and economy, contributing heavily to general productivity and development. Conventional service providers, such as travel agencies, have established service-value networks intended at achieving competitive advantage (Qiu 2008). This need has stemmed from their dependence on extremely extensive public information infrastructures and c omplex services systems meant to gratifying their international customers needs. Delivery of knowledge-based services is reacting to explicit customer demands through extremely educated and informed workers. This is achieved through offering and delivering customized value-added answers and relations (Dubosson Fragniere 2008). Changes in Conceptions on Service Quality Management The determinant factor in ways changes in the way service organizations are managed is the knowledge-based economy. Service quality is a basic problem for service organization managers. In the knowledge-based economy, there is an increase in Service quality management.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More According to Yoon and Ekinci (2003), provision of quality services is among the most difficult lasting strategies for business set up. According to Paton and McLaughlin (2008), large organizations sell or procure services on an international scale order since they have established corporation with numerous stakeholders globally. When there is integration of customer knowledge into the operation of the organization, it is possible to understand the needs of the customer fully. This helps the incorporation of the link and contribution of capital as well as boosting satisfaction of the customer. Consequently, service quality management may be a major factor for the triumph of service organizations. Service-dominant logic is the basis of service quality management transformations of within the knowledge-based society. Service-dominant logic portrays service as a process while services were portrayed as units of output in the goods-dominant logic (Vargo Lusch, 2004; Vargo Lusch, 2008). According to Lusch et al. (2006), this new approach is responsive and centered on customer needs. This approach has different effects on the management of services. It envisages ultimate co-creation of value due to connections between the service organization and prospective customers, and joint business between them and other associates (Lusch et al. 2006). According to Vargo et al. (2008: 148), it is imperative to acquire Knowledge and skills if one is to gain competitive advantage in service-dominant logic. The process of value co-creation involves every member (Lusch et al. 2006). The assessment of value-in-use helps the customer to co-creates and determine value of service offered (Plumb Zamfir, 2009). Lusch et al. (2006), asserts that a firm can only acceptable value proposition if the customer is involved in the value co-creation. Vargo and Lusch (2008) argue that alterations of philosophies on value creation have consequence on service organizations and their clients. Figu re 1 Value co-creation in service-dominant logic Source: Vargo and Lusch (2008:257) Within the knowledge-based economy, these changes about service, value creation and services management seem to control actions in the service quality management. The growth and rising acceptance of information and communication technology has caused changes to business processes. A case in point is the formation of e-business due to the application of information and communication in business processes (Plumb Zamfir, 2009). Competency in rapport determines the feat of the inter-organizational coalitions and their capability to associate and to create value. Networks within service organizations could be strengthened through better knowledge. This could end up impacting on the outcome of such connections (Eikebrokk Olsen 2007). Fuentelsaz et al. (2002: 303), argues that fundamental endeavors must be prepared in the route of learning those activities that are creators of value. Support should be sou ght with the purpose of seeking to support and promote them so as to sustainably create value. According to Fuentelsaz et al. (2002), knowledge-based economy is endowed with unique features that make it possible electronically create value and in so doing offers different ways of doing business compared to conventional methods. However varied the types of services provision are, open networks link people. Management this fact has to be taken into account. Service quality management in both theory and practice is of great significance within knowledge-based economy. Lovelock (1991), suggests that a rise in competition encourages consequential competitive differentiation in the service sector. This differentiation is based on the quality of services to customers. Global financial crisis have created powerful adjustments to management service quality. Because of erosion of purchasing power, customers are more selective when choosing services. They settle for services that would give th em value for money in terms of quality and price. Current economic crisis resulted in reduced demand for services, especially non-vital services like restaurants and theatres. For the reason mentioned above, service quality has long stopped being a market differentiation but rather an essential survival component for the service providers. Perceived value satisfaction, trust, and loyalty are usually linked to quality of service. To illustration, Cronin and Taylor (1992) undertook a study in which they concluded that perceived service quality improved levels of satisfaction. They also discovered that increased levels of perceived satisfaction increased the desire to purchase. According to Bei and Shang (2006), a service organization has put forward comparatively better perceived qualities and mainly those important to customers to do better than its competitors and thus gain competitive advantages. According to Hrtel et al. (2008: 24), customer satisfaction is linked to affective rea ctions generated when one come across a service. A customer’s perception of the success of the result is also related to satisfaction. According to Hsu (2008), the connection between customer loyalty and perceived quality is acquiescent to customer satisfaction. Customer dissatisfaction is as a result of customers not meeting their expectations. This is as opposed to good experiences that result in customer satisfaction Kim et al. (2008). Managers can adopt a higher standard of service quality than the customers’ deserved expectations so as to avoid customer dissatisfaction (Yoon and Ekinci, 2003). Managers should aim at improving service quality and customer satisfaction as well as perceived customer value. Customer satisfaction may dwindle as a result of ignoring customer value. Repeat business may also reduce due to the same reason. Kim et al. (2008) proposes a holistic technique that incorporate enhancement of service value enhancement if an organization is serious about improving service quality and customer satisfaction Customer satisfaction is even more vital regarding electronic services since networks permit knowledge sharing between customers. In the case of service providers, a dissatisfied customer may spread negative publicity to probable customers when he is exposed to low level of service quality than he or she expected. This contrary to conventional settings where this danger is minimal (Hsu 2008).Therefore, online service providers must ensure that they have a full understanding of factors that influence online customer satisfaction (Plumb Zamfir, 2009). Customer satisfaction, loyalty, and perceived value are boosted by trust. Customers who are not in a position to physically inspect the quality of a service they want normally have high level of doubt as regarding the outcome of the purchase. They do not trust that they will get the equivalent of their expectations. According to Hsu (2008), levels of perceived risk reduce with i ncreasing levels of trust. The production, exchange and analysis of information is made possible through enabling providers and clients to scrutinize, assess, and negotiate the conditions of their relationship (Plumb Zamfir, 2009). Therefore, it is imperative to maintain good information channels so as to enable sustainable interaction and networking of people and technology (Blomberg 2008: 213). A full understanding of a customers’ perception and evaluation of the service quality of an online service provider is crucial for the successful implementation of superior service quality. Hsu (2008) suggests several areas that when improved may have significant impact within an online service organization. The exact areas include; improved customer service, accurate order fulfillment, increased Web site attractiveness, and on-time delivery. Value co-creation is established on the principle of capability to acquire knowledge about other members in the service system. According to B lomberg (2008: 221), the capacity to offer extremely proficient and useful service is improved through gathering information on partners operations, providers, and customers. Where this is the case, service quality should be approximately equal to or higher than the desired expectation to improve perceived quality or customer satisfaction (Yoon Ekinci 2003: 20). A superior way of assessing service quality and customer satisfaction is by use of an expectation scale together with general satisfaction and service quality. This would offer more legitimate information and advance a managers’ decision making (Yoon Ekinci 2003). Practical Implications It is hard to make constructive generalizations regarding the quality management of service organizations because of multiplicity of service. New business surroundings have recently embraced sophisticated information and communication technologies, increased globalization of trade, increased automation, and rapid technological innova tions (Plumb Zamfir, 2009). According to Qiu (2008), service sector has progressed from traditional labour intensive industry to sources of innovation, partnership, and value co-creation. These factors are crucial for managing service. Knowledge is the fundamental of competitive advantage within the knowledge based economy. It is also the heart of innovations in service organizations and originates from making sense of data and transformation of information. Consequently, it is crucial for clients and managers of service organizations to have information as it allows them to make proper, rational, and quick decisions. A rational decision-making process is shaped by the pace of information exchange, the ease of access to information, and the potential to look for and store of information. Large quantities of information may not necessarily translate into a smooth decision-making process because the bulk of information may be irrelevant. Therefore, effective management of information is vital to ensure that the value of information is taken into account (Dubosson Fragniere 2008). When people perceive information as being valuable, their response is immediate. The immediate response causes an increase in the ability to innovate, adaptability, and flexibility to market dynamics. Information and communication technologies advancement has resulted in improved inter-organizational cooperation and communication as well as cooperation and communication between organizations and their customers. This has eased global services delivery and thus facilitates globalization of services and opening up of international markets. The result is increased profits for service organizations that are now able to compete with top-notch opponents (Cunningham et al. 2004: 421). According to Anderson et al. (2008), information may be an important tool for managers. Managers may appeal to particular clients or even enact diverse co-production processes through redesigning the concept of service organizations. The service revolution is different from the industrial revolution as it encourages value as opposed to material. This is a manifestation of sustainable underpinning for the knowledge-based economy (Chan Hsu 2009). Service-dominant logic is founded on variation of the prototype of value delivery to value propositions and of value-added to value co-creation (Vargo Lusch, 2004; Vargo Lusch, 2008). According to Chan and Hsu (2009), increase of internet-based economic activities result in novel value propositions and value co-creation. These originate from three main sources: increase of digital relations between organizations and clients, the accumulation of fresh digital relations, and the interrelation of layers of digital relations across and along a person’s and an organization’s life cycle tasks. Thus, because networks combine clients and value-oriented organizations, their application allows service organizations to provide quality service s since (Plumb Zamfir, 2009). Customer needs may be customized to be in tune with flexibility and adaptability of services by employing information and communication technologies. Competitive services may be fostered through effective integration of new technologies in the service process. This may occur as a result of active support of growth tachniques related to innovation, partnership, and value co-creation. Given that perception of service quality by customers is mostly dependent on the relations between the service provider and the customer, knowledge sharing through networks could improve these relations and thus increase customer satisfaction and loyalty. Conclusions Service quality management is greatly undergoing change as a result of Knowledge-based economy. This economy is not only knowledge-driven, but relies on constant development of people and also entails deep network collaboration. The economy also involves value co-creation geared towards achievement of sustainab le competitive advantage. Despite the many opportunities enjoyed by service organizations and their customers within the knowledge-based economy, there are challenges posed by stringent requirements regarding the quality of provided. The main opportunities related to solutions delivery include: communication, intense network cooperation, value co-creation, and customized value-added services (Plumb Zamfir, 2009). There are various challenges in the service organizations such as changes in client demand for service quality, competences necessary for proper exploitation of information and communication technologies, and the requirement for acquisition of skill and development. Another challenge is the need to transform traditional service organizations into contemporary service organizations. Recent financial crisis has shrunk opportunities and amplified problems in the service organizations. Investments for innovation my help in resolving the challenges brought by financial crisis. Within the service sector, innovations may positively influence service quality and customer satisfaction. The conclusion defends the devotion of effort aimed at raising the service quality management standards. The conclusion is important to service organization managers who are working in highly sensitive area similar to the service quality management. There is need to conduct extensive studies in the area of service quality management so as to recognize and assess definite facets of managing service quality for diverse circumstance of service organizations and for diverse categories of services provided within the knowledge-based economy. Studies in this field could also test the conclusions laid down in this report. This may possibly be achieved by questioning service organization managers and then contrasting the information gathered to the conclusions made in the current report. References Anderson, S, Pearo, LK Widener, SK 2008, ‘Drivers of Service Satisfaction: Linkin g Customer Satisfaction to the Service Concept and Customer Characteristics’, Journal of Service Research, vol.10 no.4, pp. 365-381. Bei, LT, Shang, CF 2006, ‘Building Marketing Strategies for State-Owned Enterprises Against Private Ones Based on the Perspectives of Customer Satisfaction and Service Quality’, Journal of Retailing and Consumer Services, Vol. 13,pp.1-13. Blomberg, J 2008, ‘Negotiating Meaning of Shared Information in Service System Encounters’, European Management Journal, vol.26, pp. 213-222. Chan, WKV, Hsu, C 2009, Service Scaling on Hyper-Networks. Web. Cronin, JJ, Taylor, SA. 1992, ‘Measuring Service Quality: A Reexamination and Extension’, Journal of Marketing, vol. 56, pp. 55–68. Cunningham, LF, Young, CE, Ulaga, W Lee, M 2004, ‘Consumer Views of Service Classifications in the USA and France’, Journal of Services Marketing, vol.18 no.6, pp. 421-432. Davis, MM 1991, ‘How Long Should a Custom er Wait for Service?’, Decision Sciences, vol. 22,pp. 421–434. Dubosson, M, Fragniere, E 2008, ‘The Consequences of Information Overload in  Knowledge Based Service Economies: An Empirical Research Conducted in Geneva, Service Science’. Web. Eikebrokk, TR, Olsen, DH 2007, ‘An Empirical Investigation of Competency Factors Affecting E-Business Success in European SMEs’, Information Management, vol.44 no.4, pp.364-383. Fuentelsaz, L, Maicas-Là ³pez, JP, Polo, Y 2002, ‘Assessments of the â€Å"New Economy† Scenario’, Qualitative Market Research: An International Journal, vol.5 no.4, pp. 301-310. Harris, LC, Goode, MMH 2004, ‘The Four Levels of Loyalty and the Pivotal Role of Trust: A Study of Online Service Dynamics’, Journal of Retailing, vol.80, pp.139-158. Hrtel, CEJ, Gough, H Hrtel, GF 2008, ‘Work-group Emotional Climate, Emotion Management Skills, and Service Attitudes and Performance’, As ia Pacific Journal of Human Resources, vol.46 no.1, pp. 21-37. Hsu, SH 2008, ‘Developing an Index for Online Customer Satisfaction: Adaptation of American Customer Satisfaction Index’, Expert Systems with Applications, vol.34, pp. 3033–3042. Kim, KH, Kim, KS, Kim, DY, Kim, JH Kang, SH 2008, ‘Brand Equity in Hospital Marketing’, Journal of Business Research, vol.61, pp.75–82. Lin, WB 2007, ‘The Exploration of Customer Satisfaction Model from a Comprehensive Perspective’, Expert Systems with Applications, vol.33, pp.110-121. Lovelock, C 1991, Services marketing, 2nd ed., Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Prentice Hall. Lusch, RF, Vargo, SL Malter, AJ 2006, ‘Marketing as Service-Exchange: Taking a Leadership Role in Global Marketing Management’, Organizational Dynamics, vol.35 no.3, pp. 264–278. Lusch, RF, Vargo, SL O’Brien, M 2007, ‘Competing through Service: Insights from Service-Dominant Logic, Journal of Retailing’, vol.83 no.1, pp. 5-18. Paton, RA, McLaughlin, S 2008, ‘Services Innovation: Knowledge Transfer and the Supply Chain’, European Management Journal, vol. 26, pp. 77-83. Plumb, I Zamfir, A 2009, Managing service quality within the knowledge-based economy: opportunities and challenges, Quality Management in Services, vol. 11, no. 26, pp. 373-382. Qiu, R. G 2008, Service Science: Scientific Study of Service Systems. Web. Ruiz-Mercader, J, Merono-Cerdan, AL, Sabater-Sanchez, R 2006, ‘Information Technology and Learning: Their Relationship and Impact on Organisational Performance in Small Businesses’, International Journal of Information Management,  Vol.26 no.1, pp. 16-29. Vargo, S. L., Lusch, RF, From Goods to Service(s): Divergences and Convergences of Logics, Industrial Marketing Management, 37: 254-259, 2008. Vargo, SL Lusch, RF 2004, ‘The Four Service Marketing Myths: Remnants of a Goods-Based, Manufacturing Model’, Journ al of Service Research, vol.6 no.4, pp. 324-335. Vargo, SL, Maglio, PP Akaka, MA 2008, ‘On Value and Value Co-creation: A Service Systems and Service Logic Perspective’, European Management Journal, vol.26, pp. 145-152. Yoon, TH Ekinci, Y 2003, ‘An Examination Of The Servqual Dimensions Using The Guttman Scaling Procedure’, Journal of Hospitality Tourism Research, vol.27 no.1, pp. 3-23.

Dams and Reservoirs

Dams and Reservoirs A dam is any barrier that holds back water; dams are primarily used to save, manage, and/or prevent the flow of excess water into specific regions. In addition, some dams are used to generate hydropower. This article examines man-made dams but dams can also be created by natural causes like mass wasting events or even animals like the beaver. Another term often used when discussing dams is reservoir. A reservoir is a man-made lake that is primarily used for storing water. They can also be defined as the specific bodies of water formed by the construction of a dam. For example, the Hetch Hetchy Reservoir in California’s Yosemite National Park is the body of water created and held back by the O’Shaughnessy Dam. Types of Dams One of the most common types of major dams is the arch dam. These masonry or concrete dams are ideal for narrow and/or rocky locations because their curved shape easily holds back water via gravity without the need for a lot of construction materials. Arch dams can have one large single arch or they can have multiple small arches separated by concrete buttresses. The Hoover Dam which is on the border of the U.S. states of Arizona and Nevada is an arch dam. Another type of dam is the buttress dam. These can have multiple arches, but unlike a traditional arch dam, they can be flat as well. Normally buttress dams are made of concrete and feature a series braces called buttresses along the downstream side of the dam to prevent the natural flow of water. The Daniel-Johnson Dam in Quebec, Canada is a multiple arch buttress dam. In the U.S., the most common type of dam is the embankment dam. These are large dams made out of soil and rock which use their weight to hold back water. To prevent water from moving through them, embankment dams also have a thick waterproof core. The Tarbela Dam in Pakistan is the world’s largest embankment dam. Finally, gravity dams are huge dams that are constructed to hold back water using only their own weight. To do this, they are constructed using extensive amounts of concrete, making them difficult and expensive to build. The Grand Coulee Dam in the U.S. state of Washington is a gravity dam. Types of Reservoirs and Construction The first and usually largest type of reservoir is called a valley dammed reservoir. These are reservoirs that are located in narrow valley areas where tremendous amounts of water can be held in by the valley’s sides and a dam. The best location for a dam in these types of reservoirs is where it can be built into the valley wall most effectively to form a water tight seal. To construct a valley dammed reservoir, the river must be diverted, usually through a tunnel, at the start of work. The first step in creating this type of reservoir is the pouring of a strong foundation for the dam, after which construction on the dam itself can begin. These steps can take months to years to complete, depending on the size and complexity of the project. Once finished, the diversion is removed and the river is able to flow freely toward the dam until it gradually fills the reservoir. Dam Controversy In addition, the creation of a reservoir requires the flooding of large areas of land, at the expense of the natural environment and sometimes villages, towns and small cities. The construction of China’s Three Gorges Dam, for example, required the relocation of over one million people and flooded many different archaeological and cultural sites. Main Uses of Dams and Reservoirs Another major use of dams is power generation as hydroelectric power is one of the world’s major sources of electricity. Hydropower is generated when the potential energy of the water on the dam drives a water turbine which in then turns a generator and creates electricity. To best make use of the water’s power, a common type of hydroelectric dam uses reservoirs with different levels to adjust the amount of energy generated as it is needed. When demand is low for instance, water is held in an upper reservoir and as demand increases, the water is released into a lower reservoir where it spins a turbine. Some other important uses of dams and reservoirs include a stabilization of water flow and irrigation, flood prevention, water diversion and recreation. To learn more about dams and reservoirs visit PBSs Dams Site. Rogun - 1,099 feet (335 m) in TajikistanNurek - 984 feet (300 m) in TajikistanGrande Dixence - 932 feet (284 m) in SwitzerlandInguri - 892 feet (272 m) in GeorgiaBoruca - 876 feet (267 m) in Costa RicaVaiont - 860 feet (262 m) in ItalyChicoasà ©n - 856 feet (261 m) in MexicoTehri - 855 feet (260 m) in Indialvaro Abregà ³n - 853 feet (260 m) in MexicoMauvoisin - 820 feet (250 m) in SwitzerlandLake Kariba - 43 cubic miles (180 km ³) in Zambia and ZimbabweKuybyshev Reservoir - 14 cubic miles (58 km ³) in Russia

The Soviet Afghanistan War Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

The Soviet Afghanistan War - Research Paper Example The international involvement in the war prepared an unsophisticated and unorganized guerilla force for sustained combat operations that lasted over 9 years and demoralized one of the world’s largest superpowers, consequently paving the way for its downfall (Arnold, 1985). Afghanistan enjoyed a healthy relationship with the Soviet Union during most of the 20th Century. Ever since the Russian Revolution in 1919, The Union of Soviet Socialist Republics had taken an active role in the military and economic functioning of Afghanistan. In fact, it was widely acknowledged that USSR and Afghanistan were very close allies and this often worried other political strongholds such as the United States of America and China. This relationship became official in the early 1950s when USSR sent billions in economic and military aid to Afghanistan. In 1978, the Afghan Army, which favored the PDPA (the voice of the masses of Afghanistan), caused overthrew and murdered Mohammed Daoud Khan, the ru ler. Soon after, Nur Muhammad Taraki, Secretary General of PDPA became President and Prime Minister as well. Once again, PDPA was divided internally into factions, Khalq (the masses) lead by Taraki and Hafizullah Amin and Parcham (flag) by Babrak Karmal and Mohammad Najibullah (Arnold, 1985). These conflicts resulted in violence, kidnappings and executions of many Parcham members and further deteriorating relations between the two factions. The problems that Afghanistan faced regarding ethnic and sectarian friction and violence deteriorated in the PDPA regime. Ever since the 1970s, Daoud Khan had neglected and angered the Pashtun populace of Afghanistan. Furthermore, Afghanistan had cemented problems with Pakistan as well after Daoud had urged his hardline Pashtunistan policies to Pakistan. Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, the Pakistan president at the time reacted by training the Jamiat-e-Islami militants against Daoud’s secular regime. Although these rebels were unsuccessful in overthr owing the government, the roots of an organized Islamic Rebellion had been put in place and their power would be seen in the years to come. During the first two years of his time in office, Taraki employed a liberal approach to governance by modernizing reforms. Many of these changes were seen by the masses as being anti-Islamic, something that greatly inflamed many. For example, the changes put forth by Taraki regarding land reforms and marriage rules were seen as going against the tradition in which this Islamic country was so deeply immersed. So infuriated was the populace that soon rebellions broke out in the country in mid 1978 with people attacking public buildings and military strongholds. Soon civil war had spread throughout the country. So dire was the situation that in September 1979, President Taraki was killed after a palace shootout; Hafizullah Amin took power. The Taraki and Amin governments were similar in practice; both employed Soviet-style governance, establishing reforms that hurt property owners and Islamic sentiment. Inevitably, there was great opposition to these reforms and major unrest through the country which was dealt violently by the government. Large parts of the country went into open revolt against the government. By 1979, 24 of the 28 provinces of the country had surges of violence and instability. The situation was worsened when an American Ambassador to Afghanistan, Adolph Dubs, was kidnapped and killed by militants with the help of the Soviet Union communists. Afterwards, the United States officially expressed its disapproval to the Soviet Union putting strain on

Mood disorders Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Mood disorders - Research Paper Example These signs and the effects of having mood disorders can deeply affect a person’s life. The people who suffer from constant experience of mood disorders might have a hard time in adjusting to their social environment and in getting along with others. Mood disorders can also affect and even destroy relationships with family, friends and other loved ones. Because of this, it is important to immediately and as soon as possible, take action in order to cure it. The most common treatment is through taking medication. There are several prescriptions that are taken depending on the mental disorder experienced, such as eskalith, risperidal, seroquel, depacon, valproic acid and plenty of others. Information about Mood Disorders The word mood means what a person feels within such as the emotion, whether happy, sad, excited or bored.  The term mood disorder is the abnormality or the strangeness of the mood of a person in a circumstance or condition. It would be unusual that a person wo uld have temper tantrums for no reason at all. There are various types and kinds of mood disorders, but all are characterized by an abrupt change in behavior. There are two major groups of mood disorders. First is the unipolar disorder. ... e extreme depression causes one to stop eating, to have a lack of enthusiasm of about life, and when it is already a serious condition, it can even lead to the suicide of that person. Another common example of a unipolar disease is seasonal affective disorder or SAD. This is a kind of mood disorder that is distinguished by the occurrences of major depression only happening during a certain time of the year or season such as during the summer or winter. The other major group of mood disorders is the bipolar disorder, which is also referred to as manic-depressive disorder, manic depression or bipolar affective disorder. This is defined by the existence of extreme levels of mood swings varying from intense unhappiness and the feeling of hopelessness to over joy, exhilaration and hyperactivity in the way the person feels and acts. There are also several other types of mood disorders that are also common. Some of them are mood disorders that are only effects from the presence of a medical condition. One of the most common mood disorders is substance-induced mood disorders. The substance that has been taken in to the body could be either medication such as pills, tablets, and other forms of medicine. It could also be intoxication from the intake of certain drugs and also when the person is trying to withdraw from an intoxicating drug in the body. There are many causes as to why a person might be suffering from mood disorders. Several studies have concluded that genetics can play a part in the person’s susceptibility to this condition. One of the key causes though for the occurrence of mood disorders in several people is the environment that he or she might be living in. It could have been from traumatic experiences from that person’s childhood. Hurtful incidents that