Gender Roles in Society Today - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 6 Words: 1687 Downloads: 7 Date added: 2019/04/26 Category Sociology Essay Level High school Tags: Gender Roles Essay Did you like this example? From the time we are born, we are placed into two distinct categories: Boy or Girl. Not by choice, but by genetics and what some would consider fate and there is no in between, no blurred lines. With the society that we live in today, there is a solidified stereotype placed on both men and women. Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "Gender Roles in Society Today" essay for you Create order This stereotype is known as Gender Roles. Gender roles often known as a sex role is a social role encompassing a range of societal norms that dictate what type of behaviors are considered acceptable and appropriate based on ones perceived sex. From a young age, children can classify themselves by gender and have to ability to differentiate boy activities from girl activities. These gender specific stereotypes are something which we were taught even before our adolescent years, following us into our adult lives subconsciously dictating the world around us. In recent discussions of gender roles in our society, a controversial issue has been whether the stereotypes of feminine and masculine qualities determine who is the man and who is the woman in a relationship. More specifically in same-sex relationships. On the one hand, some argue that there is no issue with categorizing an individual into a gender category based on their qualities and or sex. From this perspective, this point of view is suppressive to the way gender roles have changed and adapted in our society today. On the other hand, however, others argue that the stereotypes surrounding the topic of gender roles have created inequalities in different aspects of peoples lives. In the words of Stephen Mays, a multi-media editor, wrote an article for an independent student-run newspaper in 2013 geared towards University of Georgia students writes What About Gender Roles in Same-Sex Relationships, one of this views main proponents, A gay man may show effeminate qualities, but that doesnt make him the woman of the relationship. Just like the muscled, bearded gay man doesnt have to be the man of the relationship. According to this view, qualities possessed by and individual does not determine the role they play in a relationship, or society. In sum, then, the issue is whether gender roles have created inequalities for both men and women, or are these stereotypes placed rightfully so. My own view is that there should not be certain qualities about an individual that determines whether they are more masculine or feminine. Though I concede that for years we have been taught through school and knowledge passed on to us, as to what activities and qualities are for men and women, I still maintain that these assumed roles place a strain on the constant progression towards equality today. For example, according to studies, increases have been shown for women who are obtaining more prominent careers, while fathers of families have taken on the role of staying home and assuming the primary caregiver position. Although some might object that there have been changes in the fairness between men and women in the workplace, I would reply that there is still progress that can be made regarding this topic. The issue is important because with the changes in our society, there also needs to be change of peoples perception of the roles of gender and what they mean and how one cannot be placed into a singular category based on their qualities. When it comes to homosexual relationships as opposed to heterosexual relationships, one might say that upon observing a heterosexual relationship that it is obvious to determine who is the male and female of the relationship. So how does this work for same-sex relationships? This question is directly aligned with the topic of gender roles. In a same-sex male relationships to be more specific, the relationship is composed of two men. However, outside observers have questioned who assumes which roles in their relationship without considering the bigger picture; why must there be an assumed role in the first place? This leads me to believe we have been taught that there must be an either or, not equal. Consider two men in a relationship; one that enjoys sports activities and works for a fortune 500 company, the other enjoys shopping and cooking. Most would assume that the man who cooks and enjoys shopping would be considered the woman of the relationship. This perspective in my opinion sets us back as an entire society for all that we have worked for toward progression in equality for all. Throughout history men and women have been charged with certain individual functions. However, the 21st century has been a shift in gender roles due to several changing factors such as new family structures and women furthering their education and obtaining higher positions in the labor force. I believe that gender role equality allows gender qualities to become more neutral and according to Donnalyn Pompper, a Professor and Endowed chair in Public Relations, School of Journalism communication, and the University of Oregon teaches courses and researches in social responsibility and social identity, claims that is the reason men no longer own breadwinning identities, and like women, their bodies are objectified in mass media images. This example extenuates the idea that the high-profile careers are no longer just for men and staying at home raising children is not something that is just for women. For example, Richard Dorment, senior editor at Wired magazine and Esquire magazine writes an essay in 2013 called Why Men Still Cant Have It All. He believes in similar values as Anne-Marie Slaughter, but from the perspective of men and fathers. Dorment expresses his disappointment in the stereotypical view in which we automatically see staying home and putting the care of your children first as more of a womens role. The author explains that he made the conscious decision to stay at home and take care of their children and household responsibilities, while this gave his wife to further pursue her desired job opportunities. He claims that based on this decision, others may view him as not living up to his manly expectations, which falls under the stereotype that men, and men only are the sole breadwinners in their household. He opposes this opinion others have of him. Mays explains that this puts men and fathers at a disadvantage, suggesting that men dont enjoy spending as much time with their families as women do. I believe Dorment makes a convincing argument that not only do women feel they cannot have it all, men also share the burden of feeling unsatisfied because of the stereotypes placed upon gender specific roles. Anne-Marie Slaughter, president and CEO of the New America Foundation, professor of Princeton University and Harvard Law School writes Why Women Still Cant Have It All. Through this article Slaughter explains that she has the successful career that shes spent most of her life working toward, yet she still feels a sense of something missing. Slaughter further justifies this feeling by explaining that the position she currently holds takes away from the time shes able to spend with her husband and two sons. She then makes the decisions to resign from her position to allow her the freedom to be more attentive to her home life, though it was frowned upon by colleagues considering that she was a woman in a career mainly dominated by men and that she should stay. This article presents the idea that gender roles are so predominant, that both men and women feel like they are not allowed the decision regarding their family and work dynamic that will ultimately satisfy them because of this ide a of gender roles that they must maintain. This reading, coaligned with others regarding this topic, both address the issues men and women face when it comes to fulfilling their roles according to the standard of society. Raynard Kington, president of Grinnell College in Iowa, former director at the National Institute of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention writes an article in 2013 aimed towards the general population. This was featured in the Washington Post titled Im Gay and African American. As a Dad, I Stille Have It Easier Than Working Moms. Through this article Kington refers to the time it was announced that he would become the 13th president of Grinnell College. As he was making his speech he was interrupted by his youngest son, during that moment Kington couldnt help but wonder upon receiving praise for exposing his fatherly side, that if a woman would have got the same reaction. Kington couldnt help but feel that even with all the societal norms of a gay, African American man, that he somehow still managed to equate to more than women in our society. Furthermore, Kington recalls back to 50 years ago when he could remember his mother quitting a job that she loved to rais e him and his four siblings. When Kington would ask why she quit something she loved, she explains that nurturing her children for success in the future was more important, this being a priority lead his mother to quit her job, allowing his father to continue working while she became a full-time mother. This article is important for my paper because it is another contributing argument that gender is a heavy determination on what choices are considered acceptable for men and women. It further proves that gender roles do more harm than good, and more often women are forced into making decisions that society expects of them rather than continuing to live a life that is fulfilling to them. In conclusion, the idea that a persons sex determines what role they play in the world and how their personal traits define them as a specific gender is completely irrelevant in our modern society today. With the progress we are making, gender roles are no longer necessary because both men and women can do the same necessary tasks therefor making gender specific behaviors and traits irrelevant. In the long run these stereotypes can be detrimental to an individuals development. The current stereotypes places on men and women could potentially condemn and oppress a person that does not fit into the traditional definition of gender roles.

Impact Of Technological Advancement On Education - 1071 Words

Technological Advancement In Education. â€Å"Education is evolving due to the impact of Internet. We cannot teach our students in the same manner in which we are taught† –April Chamberlain. In the present generation, the technology available in comparison to the technology preceding this generation is great and powerful. It has changed tremendously in globalized system. Technology advancement made in education has made student to access stored information because of these development, it is easy to get by without learning and on the other, learning is more efficient and attainable. A survey in 2007 by the National Centre for Education Statistics (NCES) showed that 97% of classroom in the U.S.A had access to computer (Fast Facts).. With technology development, both teachers and students can access data in a simple form compared with educational system of 30 – 40 years back. The impact of globalization in education is undergoing constant changes under the effects of globalized system. The effect of globalization on education bring rapid developments in technology are foreseeing changes within school systems across the world as ideas, values and acknowledge, changing the roles of student and teachers, and producing a shift in society from industrialization towards an information-based society. It reflects the effect of culture and brings about a new form of cultural imperialism. It brings rapid developments in technology and communications are foreseeing changes within schoolShow MoreRelatedTechnology And Its Effects On Technology1411 Words   |  6 Pageshow to control fire and the Neolithic Revolution have played a major role in modern day technological advancements. Such ancient discoveries increased the availability of food resources and also helped man travel in and control their environment (Bender, 13). Technology has greatly improved efficiency i n service delivery especially in the fields of education, business, and healthcare. 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Technology Advancements in the Future and El Arco Introduction Read MoreHistorical Perspectives Of Health Care Delivery System926 Words   |  4 PagesTechnological advances Technology has been advancing every day, which has tremendous effects on the lifestyle of people. People are dependent on technology, and as a lifestyle of people change, a demand of advance technology grows. Technological advancement has both positive and negative effects, for instance, benefits of technological advancement are time saving, increases the production, simplifies the communication, improved the health care and education and others. On the other hand, technologyRead MoreThe Impact Of Technology On Patient Care957 Words   |  4 Pagestwenty-first century as it continues to improve everyday life. Technological benefits have expanded into the healthcare setting and has greatly impacted the medical field. 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Public libraries and hi-tech media Free Essays

Public libraries should only provide books and should not waste their limited money on expensive hi-tech media such as software, video, or DVD. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Some people hold a view that public libraries should allocate their budget on books only, rather than on the advanced facilities such as software, video, or DVD. In my opinion, the functions of modern libraries can be more diversified with the development of our technology. We will write a custom essay sample on Public libraries and hi-tech media or any similar topic only for you Order Now The hi-tech media brings lots of advantages and convenience to the readers. Firstly, with the assistance of software like information system, or self-service books borrowing and returning system, people are able to find any instruction of any book they want such as loan condition, exact location, series number and numbers left and most importantly, reduce the time spent on waiting in line and consulting the staffs. With this regard, fewer employers are needed in libraries, which save certain xpenditure of labors’ payment. Furthermore, such technology mediums store far more content than paper books, as well as enable readers to search for updated references that are beneficial for their works. Apart from this, it is a novel way of learning through resources from videos and DVDs. These mediums strengthen our further understanding and provide several proper solutions for questions generated during our reading. However, with the consideration of limited finance, some people’s proposal is educing the introduction of technological equipments. Virtually, this idea is such an old-fashioned one because books are far from enough to meet people’s demand for knowledge. If a library is filled with books only, the public are not so eager to study there as in other multi-functional libraries. In conclusion, public libraries should be subsidized by governments to the introduction and maintenance of modern facilities and have the collections of both the books and online sources. How to cite Public libraries and hi-tech media, Papers

Winning and losing free essay sample

They are mere words that define so much in this world. Defining the inevitable path one takes through the rules of competition, these rules depict the outcome of the choices a man or woman makes through life to win or to lose. The term to win originally, morally symbolized triumph in a persistent effort that usually stood for goodness and belief in the term work before play. In which, to win taught a valuable lesson to keep trying and to never give up, thereby dictating persistence.This way, the average loser hasnt lost entirely as his/her faith ND nobility of the competition has allowed one to develop a game spells. The game spirit can define other meanings in the term loser. Persistence to do well and succeed for a malice purpose can be a downfall in the worlds competition. This is because of a psychological interpretation. For example, the pride and Joy of winning Is an addictive emotion; so addictive that game players are known to cheat- this resulting in morally destroying that of which a winner (the best in fair play) has come to be known for. We will write a custom essay sample on Winning and losing or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page This persistence to win, mostly brought-on via pressure from billing I. E the Father, relinquishes the true meaning of competition. Competition has evolved over the years into this malice variation and, unsurprisingly has replaced it. This makes losing a blast of self doubt prior to failing. It is now, more than so, an eye opener for the world not being a safe, happy place, but a land where justice is not always served, despite the goodness you were fighting for.I can relate this variation of defeat to the story, Games of Twilight, where Rave- a young, enthusiastic boy ultimately falls to the crushing blow of defeat, whilst learning that is siblings and friends dont think of him as much as he thought. This is a lesson we must all learn in the course of life, along side the juices of victory. Apparent, though, that getting up after defeat and accepting Its terms Is a type of victory.This Is definable by somewhat conquering the fear, humiliation and most importantly, the dubbing of being called this century loser of this days game. Although Winning and Losing is the common conclusion to todays competition, it is the aftermath of more serious matters, such as War, and Death. In technical terms, War consequences start from freedom all the way down to slavery- thus standing for much more than social competition. Death on the other hand, is a far more serious and final variation of loss and even sometimes victory.This being the choice of taking one mans life to save anothers, thus being Wars malice, yet justified goal. Win In a competition, I see it to be the finishing line after the struggle to prove myself through the rapids of increasing skill. I see it to be the reward of my persistence to do well and furthermore Win. Whereas when I lose, sometimes I cannot help but feel angry that my opponent(s) didnt have the skill, co-operation and/or mind to be considered stronger than me. I suppose that Is what It Is to be human.However, If I feel that my opponent did show the same passion and mind for the game as I did, I cannot help feel proud of myself for finding someone who I can learn from and 1 OFF true loser simply because, you havent lost anything at all! In the correct circumstances though, I find it rather inspiring to lose. The fact that you can only get better is a modern, noble statement in which I feel (morally) that the world will never see. Even when you die through the black variation of competition (I. War), you have done it all in the name of faith and morality, and that can never be proven to be a sentimental, wrong thing (even in cases such as terrorism). I believe it to be wise; knowing that the world will never learn the significance of failing now and again. This is, as already stated, the evolution of loss. It is redefining the end as the beginning of a Journey to become better. Since the worlds citizens will always be shadowed by another mans negative opinion, it is hard for one to come to grips with he true situation at hand, and therefore fail to see the light of enhancement. As for competition itself, I feel strongly that everyone has (as vague as it may be) their own personal strength, and it would seem inaccurate to rank someone prior to their knowledge and understanding of their own skills. Sure medals and trophies are awarded to those who show signs of advanced skill in the eyes of others, but how can that be a fair, well thought out decision when the head of the competition cannot see sheer greatness itself? Untapped skill is a virtue, as it brings with it more experience after failing, and proves you should never give up.For that reason, I cannot see why it is fair to be dubbed 2nd to someone with the same characteristics- especially when they wont be noted for it until a later date. A loser, in this case, is a rather vague adjective as what it defines one as is debatable. Although I am a fan of competing, I feel it is rather unfortunate for someone to lose the game. My solution to this misfortune leads me back the Game Spirit. If you are a true wi nner, it comes natural for him/her to congratulate others who werent as experienced. This way, the apparent losers of the game will feel encouraged enough to keep trying and the so call winner has re-ignited the true, original term for the completions of this centuries day. In conclusion- to win and lose, they are biased definers in this century. People of today believe in the best simply being the best, and thats all there is too it, but, if you recall what it makes to be a champion, how can you possibly define someone who hasnt a loser? What is a loser in an unbiased mans eyes? These are questions no one will ever be able to answer.Their origins are from a people who see lifes paths more than a straightforward course everyone must follow. Their minds question who built the route so many get lost pursuing, and so therefore question lifes unreachable boundaries and beyond. Winning and losing is a mere title, thought up by one in a higher position; a person who has strayed beyond the path this century deals as the norm or the politically correct. We can only hope that the minds of the world will once again change for better as more and more people stray from the path that binds us.

Salome Review Essay Example

Salome Review Paper Essay on Salome Salome one of the books that I have no reservations call genius. Why? Perhaps the entire cause completely unique creation of the author, devoid of clichà ©s and abrasions? Perfect style? Maybe We will write a custom essay sample on Salome Review specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Salome Review specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Salome Review specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer greatness and high world the authors thoughts? Or depth, and even bottomless embedded philosophy? Yes! Of course, yes! But thats not all! Dramatically intense action, almost too immerses the reader in the book generates the desire to re-read the play immediately after its completion. From books Wilde breathtaking, and the intensity and sincerity of feeling shown makes the heart pounding harder. Unforgettable The beauty and elegance of style will satisfy gourmets language. lyricism and melodiousness will appeal to lovers of poetry, masterfully written out storyline will attract fans of action, rather than contemplation. An unusual, non-standard interpretation of the Christian legend allow you to see the new in the famous. Sharpened psychology inherent in the book achieved Wilde by truly incredible attention to detail and the emphasis in the speech of the characters. The luxury of colors, richness and elegance, which are d strength is not every artist words do play perfect, which side do not look. Sometimes it seems that the human tongue big enough for Wilde, so subtly, he chooses his words to transmit all colors and iridescence state of mind, emotional outbursts and impulses of his characters Elegance and aesthetics, not knowing borders, intricate and bizarre linguistic resources may seem unnecessary and unnatural, but who would think to accuse nature of that tropical colors are too bright and the sea so fascinating changeable and perfectly The phenomenon Wilde is that any person who is not devoid of chuvst va nice, just can not get past the fragile tie of images and thoughts, the atmosphere, which disintegrates into separate gems when you try to understand it and dissect him. After all, only in his integrity they form a crown on the brow of genius. Clean and defect in the play have merged in the divine dance and spawned masterpiece that can not be described as to convey to the full his epic and priceless. Salome Wilde I can compare with the jewelry. It seems ancient and magical, even though it was created just over a century ago. Bright, like its author, the play ever broke into my vision of a perfect product.

Free Essays on Goodnight Desdemona Goodmorning Juliet

Goodnight Desdemona, Good Morning Juliet The production of â€Å"Goodnight Desdemona, Good Morning Juliet† put on by Villanova University’s Theater Department captured the essence of Shakespeare combined with the humor of an intertwined modern world. The combination of fine acting, beautiful costumes, and impressive stage presence led to wonderful experience for everyone in the audience. Evident through multiple bursts of laughter and a few straining necks it was obvious that the production was very well received. The most striking cast member had to be Kyla Marie Mostello playing the part of Desdemona. Kyla had an amazing stage presence that immediately drew the eyes of an audience member. Kyla was able to convince the audience that she truly was from another world. Her facial expressions and tone of voice made believing her to be from the world of Othello amazingly easy. When the character of Constance Ledbelly played by Nina Donze explained to Desdemona that she was from another world, a world referred to by Desdemona as â€Å"Academia,† Kyla allowed the audience to believe in her curiosity about this strange world of â€Å"Academia.† Kyla forced the audience to wonder whether she really was curious about this strange new world. Kyla’s presence in the production added tremendously to each audience member’s overall experience. Not one of the characters stands out as weak link in the production. With exception to Kyla’s standout performance the rest of the characters did a fine job portraying their version of the characters. Taylor Williams playing the part of the Ghost forced to the audience to chuckle on more than one occasion with her amusing body movements, a wink of the eye, or a heart-felt laugh. Taylor opened up the production by getting the whole audience involved. Taylor even briefly interacted with a few audience members. It was clear from their reactions that besides being a bit stage fright the audience membe... Free Essays on Goodnight Desdemona Goodmorning Juliet Free Essays on Goodnight Desdemona Goodmorning Juliet Goodnight Desdemona, Good Morning Juliet The production of â€Å"Goodnight Desdemona, Good Morning Juliet† put on by Villanova University’s Theater Department captured the essence of Shakespeare combined with the humor of an intertwined modern world. The combination of fine acting, beautiful costumes, and impressive stage presence led to wonderful experience for everyone in the audience. Evident through multiple bursts of laughter and a few straining necks it was obvious that the production was very well received. The most striking cast member had to be Kyla Marie Mostello playing the part of Desdemona. Kyla had an amazing stage presence that immediately drew the eyes of an audience member. Kyla was able to convince the audience that she truly was from another world. Her facial expressions and tone of voice made believing her to be from the world of Othello amazingly easy. When the character of Constance Ledbelly played by Nina Donze explained to Desdemona that she was from another world, a world referred to by Desdemona as â€Å"Academia,† Kyla allowed the audience to believe in her curiosity about this strange world of â€Å"Academia.† Kyla forced the audience to wonder whether she really was curious about this strange new world. Kyla’s presence in the production added tremendously to each audience member’s overall experience. Not one of the characters stands out as weak link in the production. With exception to Kyla’s standout performance the rest of the characters did a fine job portraying their version of the characters. Taylor Williams playing the part of the Ghost forced to the audience to chuckle on more than one occasion with her amusing body movements, a wink of the eye, or a heart-felt laugh. Taylor opened up the production by getting the whole audience involved. Taylor even briefly interacted with a few audience members. It was clear from their reactions that besides being a bit stage fright the audience membe...

Kuwaits Foreign Policy Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Kuwaits Foreign Policy - Research Paper Example According to Robert Rothstein, Kuwait’s domestic resources are unable to provide necessary security to the people of Kuwait.3 Kuwait was interested in maximizing their independence and freedom.4 For that, it would be impossible for Kuwait to survive as a neutral country. It should be noted that America and its allies saved Kuwait from the invasion of Saddam recently. Kuwait’s foreign policy has been developed on different perspectives. Oil, Islamic Fundamentalism, Arab Nationalism, Protection from its neighbors such as Iraq and Iran are some of the basic tenants that shape Kuwait’s foreign policy. This paper briefly analyses these four basic tenants that shape Kuwait’s foreign policy It is estimated that Kuwait possesses around 8.6–9.7% of the world’s oil reserves at present.5 Oil revenues account for more than 75% of the governmental income in Kuwait. Moreover, oil constitutes almost 90% of Kuwait’s export earnings. From the above statistics, it is evident that oil revenues play a major role in the development of Kuwait. As in the case of many other Middle Eastern countries, oil has the ability to shape the politics in Kuwait. It should be noted that majority of the foreign countries, irrespective of developed or developing, are facing severe energy crisis at present. At the same time, Kuwait has abundant oil resources. Naturally, the eyes of the foreigners would definitely focus more on Kuwait even though Kuwait is only a small country. The political, social and economic developments in Kuwait will be watched curiously by the foreigners. It would be easy for the western countries to interfere in Kuwaiti politics since Kuwait is facing many threats from its neighboring countries such as Iran, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia. Westerners are providing protection to Kuwaitis while taking oil as the fees or payment for that protection. In short,

Research Project Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Project - Research Paper Example According to the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), there are several inconsistencies with the five scenarios mentioned. For instance, it is the sole responsibility of GAAP to evaluate and account on the transactions conducted in the company. In other words, it ensures that is correct presentation of the business income and expenses of the corporation in relation to realized profits and losses. On that aspect, for instance, the lease on technology assets on inflated prices constitutes a violation of the GAAP rule of accountability. Additionally, there is also the breach of the principle of full disclosure/materiality (Epstein & Saafir, 2010). In this principle, according to the umbrella of GAAP, the leasing of technology assets should have been made public in terms of the transactions and the records of the sales. There is also the breach of the principle of sincerity. For example, in making understatements of e-commerce state the tax payments, the organization goes aga inst the principality of GAAP that requires sincerity and honesty. Alternatively, this also violates the GAAP principle of regularity whereby a company should abide its sets rules and laws. The receivership of post-employment benefits by fictitious workers is also a sign of fraud in the organization. In accordance with GAAP requirements, the principle of non-compensation guards against the hiding of pertinent details that deal with financial information (Bragg, 2008). Therefore, there is an element of fraud because workers within the company are using proxies to award themselves heft payments. This is a breach against compensation by either asset or debt in the principle of non-compensation. Moreover, it also contradicts the GAAP principle of full disclosure that requires all financial information including payments and transactions to be disclosed in public through records. Another fraud that is apparent according to GAAP rules is that one involving the hiding of cash to help other future quarters. The earnings are meant to short change the expectations of an analyst in future reports. However, unknown to the corporation, this is a contravention of the principle of regularity that requires any company to conform to its stipulated rules and laws of financial transaction without making any monetary concealments (Epstein & Saafir, 2010). Furthermore, there is also the principle of utmost good faith that states that all the information pertaining to the firm should made public to its respective insurer before taking any policy. This is because such a move leads to shady dealings as one witnessed above to manipulate the judgment of a financial analyst. In the same view, there is also an element of fraud in the concealment of inventory shrinkage because it seems low for the industry. According to the GAAP rules, the principle of prudence if grossly violated and subjected to financial ridicule. The principle expects firms to abide with the reality of the company wit hout making things look contrary to the reality. On that account, there should only be recording of revenue and inventory shrinkage when sales have been made at their disposal value (Harrer, 2008). Additionally, this move by the company also goes against the principle of full disclosure/ materiality that requires the making of all financial inf

Relationship between one's principles,the investigation of truth and Essay

Relationship between one's principles,the investigation of truth and how to lead one's life - Essay Example The person would then conduct his life according to the principles discussed and the truth he finds out. The three are clearly related to each other as while living a person should be following those principles and he would be required to know the truth too. Socrates had been imprisoned due to speaking out his mind and was scheduled to be put to death. All because he had been investigating truth and said what he thought was right. He was not given the freedom of speech. However, when Crito asked him to escape and get away from the injustice, he did not agree and felt that he should follow the common principles of those times; he thought that the rules are for everyone and should be for him too. In Antigone we see a similar situation. Sophocles says God’s law is greater than that of man and he did that in order for the population to be safe from moral destruction (Johansen 96). Another theme is that of civil disobedience when Creon and Antigone have differing viewpoints. While Creon feels that the law should be followed whatever it is, Antigone feels that the state law is not absolute, and that the law of gods is much greater and more to be followed. In fact, his view is that the state law can be broken if need be to follow the law of gods. That is, he clearly prefers gods’ law over the state law which is made by mortals.

Inflation and Fiscal Policy in the UAE

Inflation and Fiscal Policy in the UAE Table of Contents (jump to) 1. Inflation in that existing economy then suggested an applicable solutions to cope these statement Political and Social Stability Oil and Mineral Resources Agricultural Resources 2. Evaluate advantage and disadvantages of the current fiscal policy and monetary policy being implemented in the chosen country 3. Find out and explain the effectiveness of various economic growth reforms that were carried out in the past years Dubai to sustain % GDP growth in 2014 DH953.2 Billion GDP estimates at current 2013 Abu dhabi’s GDP up 5.6% in 2012 Contribution of extractive industries to Abu Dhabi’s GDP amounted to 5% in 2011 4. Examine the effect of the balance of payment on the exchange rates in the chosen country explaining. How the chosen country manages its foreign debt 1. Inflation in that existing economy then suggested an applicable solutions to cope these statement Thirty years back the UAE was one of the slightest created nations of the world. Today, it has attained a wage level practically identical to that of the industrialized countries. The UAE did not pass through the speculative advancement organizes that most created nations appear to have encountered. Rather, its extensive oil incomes have permitted her to jump these stages to the phase of high mass utilization. Monstrous oil incomes have empowered the UAE to alternate way the normally troublesome and long procedure of sparing and capital amassing important for financial improvement. Given a wealth of common asset blessings (oil and gas), the UAE has grasped asset based commercial ventures (RBI) as an advancement procedure, a mechanical technique that is focused around use of characteristic assets. There has been a sending of windfall wage, to a great extent coordinated at a for the last time help to the social and investment foundation, which empowered the UAE to attain a critical lev el of investment advancement inside the exact concise time period of 1973 to 1982, a period of moderately high oil costs (Kandil, Morsy, 2011). Prior to the disclosure and fare of oil, the economy of the Trucial States (which today structure the UAE) depended predominantly on subsistence farming, itinerant creature cultivation, the concentrating of pearls and the exchange pearls, angling, and marine. The period before the revelation of oil, hence, reflected the nations restricted regular assets, and brought about a basic subsistence economy (Kandil, Morsy, 2011). Political and Social Stability Since its shaping in 1971 the UAE has appreciated a political steadiness. The current political structures seem to suit the tribal pop culture of the UAE and the dissemination of immense oil incomes as social and financial base, high compensations, an elevated expectation of social administrations, for example, wellbeing and training has raised the expectation for everyday comforts for UAE nationals and impressively decreased the probability of inward political and social turmoil. It is worth saying that the UAE Government has kept up a generally decent record on human rights since the creation of the state. This thus has pushed political and social strength (Alà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ mulali, Sab, Binti, 2011). The UAE is a dynamic part of numerous provincial and universal affiliations, for example, the Middle Easterner League, the United Nations, the Non-Aligned Movement, the Arab Gulf Cooperation Gathering, and the Organization of the Islamic Conference. Oil and Mineral Resources The UAE is blessed with incomprehensible stores of oil, both seaward and coastal. Co partnered gas from raw petroleum generation and non-partnered gas is likewise created. Since the early 1970s the UAEs incredible development has depended to a great extent on the revelation and abuse of oil. The oil and gas commercial ventures are generally overseen and the most recent innovation is persistently tackled to build beneficial productivity. As indicated by the UAE Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, the UAE most extreme reasonable every day limit of oil generation (greatest creation rate that might be managed day by day for one year in current states of misuse) is 2 million barrels a day (Alà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ mulali, Sab, Binti, 2011). Agricultural Resources The aggregate zone of area under farming and ranger service constitutes short of what 1.5 for every penny of the aggregate area territory of the UAE. Agribusiness has made just a little commitment to GDP (3.8 for every penny in 1999). There has, notwithstanding, been a reliable and significant expand in the measure of area committed to horticulture and ranger service in the course of recent years as the aftereffect of supported exertions by the UAE Government to advertise farming improvement utilizing the accompanying motivations (Osman, Louis, Balli, 2009): Agricultural plots are conceded allowed to any UAE national. Land is leveled and arranged mechanically for nothing. Production inputs, for example, seeds, manures, and insect sprays are given at half cost. Water wells are bored free of charge. There is procurement of free specialized administrations, for example, establishment of water pumps (Osman, Louis, Balli, 2009). 2. Evaluate advantage and disadvantages of the current fiscal policy and monetary policy being implemented in the chosen country Regardless of the UAEs pay rates positioning higher than the worldwide normal, supplementary expenses excessively are shooting up. As indicated by Dubai Statistics Center, on the premise of purchaser value information, expansion in Dubai rose to its most elevated amount in the most recent four years in October. Lodging and utility expenses, which represents just about 44 for every penny of purchaser costs, climbed 3.2 for every penny year-on-year and 0.2 for every penny month-on-month individually in October. Despite the fact that sustenance and drink costs climbed by 1.8 for every penny yearly, October costs fell 0.4 for every penny from the past month (Osman, Louis, Balli, 2009). In a Bayt.com compensation study of UAE experts, discharged not long ago, 28 for every penny of experts said their compensations expanded just hardly while an alternate 28 for every penny reported a moderate build. Around 19 for every penny of respondents said there was no change. The greater part of experts reviewed ascribed their pay climb to swelling and the climbing average cost for basic items while around 80 for every penny said that climbing rents constituted a significant a piece of their living costs. Be that as it may as business certainty gets in front of the Expo 2020 offer, Dubais lopsided climb in compensations in connection with rents could go about as a focused disservice in holding ability at later stages. It is important that as per the Bayt.com MENA Salary Survey (May 2013), 47 for every penny of UAE respondents accept that their steadfastness is 70 to100 for every penny connected to their compensation, consequently showing that pay is a key driver for corporate faithfulness for a lions share, said Suhail Masri, VP of offers, Bayt.com (al-Awad, 2013). This general pattern is seen over the Middle East that organizations must start to address; in doing thus, they will have the capacity to help building worker steadfastness and fulfillment, and will have the chance to decrease the amount of representatives looking to change employments inside the one year from now. Masri said that in spite of the lodging remittance given to UAE workers being the third most astounding in the district, climbing living expenses for occupants are a reason for concern. 3. Find out and explain the effectiveness of various economic growth reforms that were carried out in the past years Dubai to sustain % GDP growth in 2014 Billions of dollars worth of realty ventures to help economy Dubais economy is relied upon to develop around five for every penny not long from now, a comparable pace to 2013, the leader of its detail office said on Monday. Development in the Gulf emirate, the districts exchange and business center, grabbed firmly a year ago, floated by the possibility of government land ventures worth many billions of dollars. It is normal that development will arrive at around five for every penny in 2013,   official chief Arif Obaid Al Muhairi said on the Dubai Statistics the economy developed around 4.5 for every penny in the initial nine months of a year ago, he said. Dubai represents a quarter of yield of the UAE economy, with oil-fueled Abu Dhabi in charge of around 65 for every penny (al-Awad, 2013). The UAE, one of the worlds top oil exporters, has yet to discharge 2013 GDP information. DH953.2 Billion GDP estimates at current 2013 The Statistics Center-Abu Dhabi (SCAD) affirmed yesterday throughout a question and answer session held at the Abu Dhabi Economic Media Club, the last comes about and budgetary studies for 2012, which registered the GDP for the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, and GDP gauges for 2013 (al-Awad, 2013). The Conference was gone to by Mr. Nasser Dayan, Director of Economic Statistics Department, Dr. Mohammed Al Dhaheri, Director of Field Surveys, Ms. Shamma Al Rumaithi, Director of National Accounts, and Mr. Osama Al Zugbi, Assistant Director of Economic Statistics Department. Mr. Nasser Dayan expressed that the vital comes about and assessments arrived at by SCAD on investment advancements in Abu Dhabi a year ago demonstrated that all financial exercises and divisions, oil and non-oil, accomplished development (Termos, Naufal, Genc, 2013). Abu dhabi’s GDP up 5.6% in 2012 In its yearly report for 2012, the Department ascribed the slower development in 2012 to the slight climb in the oil division in both creation and costs contrasted and 2011. It demonstrated Abu Dhabis true GDP remained at Dh678 billion in 2012 and said that notwithstanding the loosening development in 2012, Abu Dhabis economy kept up its recuperated and came back to its solid pace, exploiting the powerful enhancement methodology received by the emirates legislature as of late. The report demonstrated the oil division accomplished a 3.8 for every penny true development in 2012, which was lower than past rates acknowledged by the action throughout 2010 and 2011 (Termos, Naufal, Genc, 2013). Interestingly, non-oil exercises reinforce the increases accomplished over the recent years, and transformed into a solid mainstay of budgetary execution in the emirate, it said. Non-oil investment exercises recorded true development of 7.7 for every penny in 2012, contrasted with 6.7 for every penny and 6.1 for every penny in 2011 and 2010 separately. This considered absolutely the commitment of non-oil exercises to the true GDP of the Emirate, which rose to 48 for every penny in 2012 contrasted with 44 for every penny in 2007. A breakdown demonstrated the land division developed by 16.7 for every penny in 2012, as an immediate consequence of the noteworthy recuperation of offers exercises in the land part in the Emirate (Basher, Elsamadisy, 2012). The assembling division stretched by 9.7 for every penny to a record Dh41.5 billion, the report indicated Contribution of extractive industries to Abu Dhabi’s GDP amounted to 5% in 2011 The extractive business is the spine of the economy of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, and a standout amongst the most vital parts of the national pay of the emirate, where oil incomes are utilized within development of base tasks, and in addition other monster national commercial enterprises. The commitment of extractive industry to the GDP of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi arrived at 58.5% in 2011, as an aftereffect of high oil costs in world markets, and the expand in creation of oil in Abu Dhabi. OPEC normal oil value rose from Us$77.45 for every barrel in 2010 to Us$107.46 for every barrel in 2011 (Basher, Elsamadisy, 2012). Aggregate Fixed Capital Formation: The aggregate altered capital framing in the extractive business movement rose from Dh 7.8 billion in 2006 to Dh 48.8 billion in 2011 at a yearly development rate of 44% on normal throughout the period, while settled capital shaping in the action developed by 11.6% in 2011 (Hamaideh, 2010). 4. Examine the effect of the balance of payment on the exchange rates in the chosen country explaining. How the chosen country manages its foreign debt Conversion scale administrations can harshly be characterized into three classifications: settled (pegged), adaptable (gliding) and moderate administrations. Before 1970s, most economies worked under settled conversion standard administration known as the Bretton-Woods framework. Under this framework, nations altered their trade rates against US dollar and the dollar was worth a settled measure of gold. All taking part coinage were certainly pegged to the gold. The framework was broken down following 25 years (1946-1971) yet the arrangement of altered conversion scale remained the favored administration in numerous nations. The fundamental inspiration for keeping trade rates settled is the conviction that a stable swapping scale can encourage exchange and speculation streams between nations by diminishing variances in relative costs and by lessening vulnerability (Hamaideh, 2010). Since 1971, economies have been moving towards adaptable conversion standard administrations, where the estimation of the cash is controlled by the business. In this setting, the residential coin, all else equivalent, devalues when interest for the remote money expands or supply of the outside cash diminishes and acknowledges when interest for the outside coin abatements or supply of the remote coin builds (Hamaideh, 2010). References Kandil, M., Morsy, H. (2011). Determinants of Inflation in GCC.Middle East Development Journal,3(02), 141-158. http://www.worldscientific.com/doi/abs/10.1142/S1793812011000351 Alà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ mulali, U., Sab, C., Binti, C. N. (2011). The impact of oil prices on the real exchange rate of the dirham: a case study of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).OPEC Energy Review,35(4), 384-399. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.17530237.2011.00198.x/abstract?deniedAccessCustomisedMessage=userIsAuthenticated=false Osman, M. A., Louis, R. J., Balli, F. (2009). Output gap and inflation nexus: the case of United Arab Emirates.International Journal of Economics and Business Research,1(1), 118-135. http://inderscience.metapress.com/content/h815u130l51p1493/ al-Awad, M. M. (2013). Ex Ante Inflation Rates in the UAE. http://repository.yu.edu.jo/handle/123456789/535773 Termos, A., Naufal, G., Genc, I. (2013). Remittance outflows and inflation: The case of the GCC countries.Economics Letters,120(1), 45-47. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0165176513001468 Basher, S. A., Elsamadisy, E. M. (2012). Country heterogeneity and longà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ run determinants of inflation in the Gulf Arab states† .OPEC Energy Review,36(2), 170-203. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1753-0237.2011.00208.x/abstract?deniedAccessCustomisedMessage=userIsAuthenticated=false Hamaideh, M. E. (2010).A Risk Management Strategy To Hedge Projects Against Cost Escalation Caused By Price Inflation(Doctoral dissertation, British University in Dubai). http://bspace.buid.ac.ae/handle/1234/328

Heal The World: Exploring Palmers the Case For Human Beings :: essays research papers

Human beings. We are an exclusive species. Humans are able to achieve abstract thought, while most of the creatures in the animal kingdon have an attention span of only minutes. We are able to extract the purest elements from the most barren lands. We are also able to destroy the fragile biodiversity that has taken the earth millions of years to create. Should humankind, however, be punished for pushing so many different species into extinction by becoming extinct itself? In Thomas Palmer's essay, "The Case For Human Beings", Palmer explores the topics of human accomplishment, the diversity of humankind, and the havoc that said diversity has caused on the environment. Using irony and sarcasm, with the occasional clever analogy, he burdens the reader with his cynical outlook on humankind in regards to its brutish treatment of the earth's delicate ecosystem. In one paragraph, Palmer states, "The only way to...restore biodiversity to its greatest possible richness, would be to arrange for every human being on earth to drop dead tomorrow" (323-24). Palmer's combative literary form, however, is not entirely lacking its own beauty and grace. When he uses human acheivements such as a Bach chorale, man's first journey to the moon, and three-masted schooners, he is bringing glory back to humankind. Although he explains the splendor of the Bach chorale, he still states, "Human consciousness...cannot, in this view, contribute to bio diversity, except by staying as far out of the picture as possible, so as to avoid tainting still-intact landscapes with unnatural influences" (324). No Bach chorale, no three-masted schooner, no Apollo landing, Palmer reveals, contributes to the ecosystem. Palmer isn't a misanthrope. He isn't out for the destruction of the human species. His writing strategies, such as comparisons, distortion of the opposition, and smokescreening the obvious issue at hand, which is the destruction of the ecosystem, indeed tell the reader of his belief in his writing. Palmer writes this to Everyman--an average person of average intelligence with only an average curiosity about the destruction of the species.

‘A complex character deserving sympathy.’ How far and in what ways do you agree with this view of Angelo in Measure for Measure?

In Shakespeare's Measure for Measure, Angelo emerges as a double-sided character; an appropriate focal point for such a ‘problem play', as many of Shakespeare's later works are considered to be. Shakespeare appears to have taken his inspiration for the story from sources such as Promos and Cassandra (George Whetstone) and Giraldi Cinthio's Hecatommithi, both plays in which a self-righteous deputy, be it Promos in Whetstone's version, or Angelo in Shakespeare's, seduces a woman (Cassandra or Isabella) by promise of pardon for her condemned brother. Scholars have argued for centuries whether Angelo, or indeed Promos, is a moral or an evil character. Those scholars who support the notion of Angelo as moral often cite the following factors in the play: the Duke obviously trusts Angelo; Angelo is disheartened enough by the end of the play to offer a sincere apology; and Angelo tries to resist the temptation that Isabella presents. On the other hand, others have argued that Shakespeare depicts Angelo as a purely evil man. These critics emphasise Angelo's treatment of Marian, the Duke's possible suspicion of Angelo, his desire for Isabella, and his broken promise to Isabella. By examining Angelo in both of these circumstances, it will become apparent that the most successful interpretation of Angelo's character is a combination of both of these facets. One of these critics, Leo Kirschbaum, suggests that the change in the structure of Measure for Measure is the result of a change in the characterization of Angelo. At the beginning of the play, Kirschbaum notes, Angelo is cruel and inflexible, but this is tempered somewhat by the fact that he is also noble in his consistent adherence to the law. But in the end he is a character who is no longer noble but who is instead â€Å"small-minded, mean, calculating (and) vindictive. † Therefore, a comprehensive analysis of the character and his significance is necessary to decide whether Angelo does actually deserve sympathy. Upon analysis of the early scenes, we, as the audience, would instinctively begin to consider Angelo a character not worthy of sympathy, as he has ostensibly fooled the Duke into trusting him enough to give him power over Vienna and then immediately condemns Claudio to death for impregnating his lover, despite his genuine love for her. By telling Angelo â€Å"Mortality and mercy in Vienna Live in thy tongue, and heart†, it is apparent that the Duke trusts Angelo, even more than his own right-hand man, Escalus, who is overlooked to be the Duke's deputy. This, however, is overshadowed by the Duke's conversation with the friar in I. iii where he says â€Å"Believe not that the dribbling dart of love Can pierce a complete bosom† and â€Å"I have on Angelo impos'd the office; Who may in th'ambush of my name strike home †¦ ; in both quotes we are led to believe that the Duke perhaps does not trust Angelo to the extent that is initially apparent. Instead, it appears to be part of a wider plan of which we are so far unaware. To make a moral judgement on Angelo at this stage of the play would be incorrect however; we have barely met him as a person, and only seen him in a brief exchange whilst accepting the position the Duke offers him. He is, however, â€Å"tyrannous† enough to promise Claudio's liberty in return for Isabella's virginity, such is his power in the Duke's place. These factors, along with his cruel treatment of Mariana, with whom he had plans of marriage which broke down because â€Å"her promised proportions Came sort of composition†, exposing his shallow and hypocritical nature, would point to Angelo not being worthy of the audience's sympathy, and simply a cold, emotionless character (â€Å"whose blood is very snowbroth†) created by Shakespeare to reflect the promiscuous evil of Viennese society at the time. For all the negative criticism of Angelo, there is in fact plenty of evidence to suggest he is a character with redeeming features who can be seen as reflecting the positive implications of punishment in a play so concerned with the theme of justice. His apology in the final scene is the prime example of his somewhat altered attitude, due to the events of the story. He is â€Å"sorry that such sorrow I procure And so deep sticks it in my penitent heart† – a quote which refers to the Duke's analysis that â€Å"the dribbling dart of love Can [not] pierce a complete bosom†. This apology, especially with its placement at the end of the play, does leave the audience with a slightly more positive view of Angelo than would be had otherwise. Angelo's initial refusal of Isabella's offering whilst carrying out the Duke's plan is another factor of the play which would lead the audience to sympathising somewhat with Angelo and not considering him an entirely malicious character. Despite the evidence of these two points, however, I firmly believe that Angelo is mainly a character undeserving of sympathy, whose reputation amongst the masses is well-founded by his selfish actions and hypocritical nature, as we learn that he has committed a crime far worse than Claudio's – something apparently known by the Duke, who soliloquises at the end of Act III, saying â€Å"He who the sword of heaven will bear Should be as holy as severe†. Although the best analysis of Angelo as a person would clearly be a combination of both malicious and beneficent, as many of the key characters in Shakespeare's ‘problem plays' would best be described as, he does appear to be vastly a malevolent being, not worth of the audience's compassion.

Issues in Sme Development in Ghana and South Africa

International Research Journal of Finance and Economics ISSN 1450-2887 Issue 39 (2010)  © EuroJournals Publishing, Inc. 2010 http://www. eurojournals. com/finance. htm Issues in SME Development in Ghana and South Africa Joshua Abor Department of Finance University of Ghana Business School, Legon Peter Quartey Institute of Statistical, Social and Economic Research University of Ghana, Legon Abstract This paper discusses the characteristics, contributions of SMEs to economic development, and the constraints to SME development in developing countries with particular reference to Ghana and South Africa. SMEs in Ghana have been noted to provide about 85% of manufacturing employment of Ghana. They are also believed to contribute about 70% to Ghana’s GDP and account for about 92% of businesses in Ghana. In the Republic of South Africa, it is estimated that 91% of the formal business entities are SMEs. They also contribute between 52 to 57% to GDP and provide about 61% to employment. Notwithstanding the recognition of the important roles SMEs play in these countries, their development is largely constrained by a number of factors, such as lack of access to appropriate technology; limited access to international markets, the existence of laws, regulations and rules that impede the development of the sector; weak institutional capacity, lack of management skills and training, and most importantly finance. The paper provides some relevant recommendations to policy makers, development agencies, entrepreneurs, and SME managers to ascertain the appropriate strategy to improve the SME sector in these countries. Keywords: SME Development, Ghana, South Africa 1. 0. Introduction There is growing recognition of the important role small and medium enterprises (SMEs) play in economic development. They are often described as efficient and prolific job creators, the seeds of big businesses and the fuel of national economic engines. Even in the developed industrial economies, it is the SME sector rather than the multinationals that is the largest employer of workers (Mullineux, 1997). Interest in the role of SMEs n the development process continues to be in the forefront of policy debates in most countries. Governments at all levels have undertaken initiatives to promote the growth of SMEs (Feeney and Riding, 1997). SME development can encourage the process of both inter and intra-regional decentralization; and, they may well become a countervailing force against the economic power of larger enterprises. More generally, the development of SMEs is seen as accelerating the achievement of wider economi c and socio-economic objectives, including poverty alleviation (Cook and Nixson, 2000). According to an OECD report, SMEs produce about 25% of OECD exports and 35% of Asia’s exports (OECD, 1997). International Research Journal of Finance and Economics – Issue 39 (2010) 219 SMEs represent over 90% of private business and contribute to more than 50% of employment and of GDP in most African countries (UNIDO, 1999). Small enterprises in Ghana are said to be a characteristic feature of the production landscape and have been noted to provide about 85% of manufacturing employment of Ghana (Steel and Webster, 1991; Aryeetey, 2001). SMEs are also believed to contribute about 70% to Ghana’s GDP and account for about 92% of businesses in Ghana. Similarly, in the Republic of South Africa, it is estimated that 91% of the formal business entities are Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) (Hassbroeck, 1996; Berry et al. , 2002). They also contribute between 52 and 57% to GDP and provide about 61% of employment (CSS, 1998; Ntsika, 1999; Gumede, 2000; Berry et al. , 2002). SMEs therefore have a crucial role to play in stimulating growth, generating employment and contributing to poverty alleviation, given their economic weight in African countries. How do SMEs in Ghana compare with their counterparts in South Africa and what policy lessons can be drawn for both countries to enhance the contribution of the sector remains the focus of this paper. The rest of the paper is organized as follows: Section two reviews the various definitions of SMEs. Section three discusses the characteristics of SMEs in developing countries. Sections four and five examine the contributions of SMEs to economic development and the constraints to SME developments. The paper concludes in section six. 2. 0. What is an SME? The issue of what constitutes a small or medium enterprise is a major concern in the literature. Different authors have usually given different definitions to this category of business. SMEs have indeed not been spared with the definition problem that is usually associated with concepts which have many components. The definition of firms by size varies among researchers. Some attempt to use the capital assets while others use skill of labour and turnover level. Others define SMEs in terms of their legal status and method of production. Storey (1994) tries to sum up the danger of using size to define the status of a firm by stating that in some sectors all firms may be regarded as small, whilst in other sectors there are possibly no firms which are small. The Bolton Committee (1971) first formulated an â€Å"economic† and â€Å"statistical† definition of a small firm. Under the â€Å"economic† definition, a firm is said to be small if it meets the following three criteria: †¢ It has a relatively small share of their market place; †¢ It is managed by owners or part owners in a personalized way, and not through the medium of a formalized management structure; †¢ It is independent, in the sense of not forming part of a large enterprise. Under the â€Å"statistical† definition, the Committee proposed the following criteria:: †¢ The size of the small firm sector and its contribution to GDP, employment, exports, etc. †¢ The extent to which the small firm sector’s economic contribution has changed over time; †¢ Applying the statistical definition in a cross-country comparison of the small firms’ economic contribution. The Bolton Committee applied different definitions of the small firm to different sectors. Whereas firms in manufacturing, construction and mining were defined in terms of number of employees (in which case, 200 or less qualified the firm to be a small firm), those in the retail, services, wholesale, etc. were defined in terms of monetary turnover (in which case the range is 50,000-200,000 British Pounds to be classified as small firm). Firms in the road transport industry are classified as small if they have 5 or fewer vehicles. There have been criticisms of the Bolton definitions. These centre mainly on the apparent inconsistencies between defining characteristics based on number of employees and those based on managerial approach. The European Commission (EC) defined SMEs largely in term of the number of employees as follows: †¢ firms with 0 to 9 employees – micro enterprises; 220 International Research Journal of Finance and Economics – Issue 39 (2010) †¢ 10 to 99 employees – small enterprises; †¢ 100 to 499 employees – medium enterprises. Thus, the SME sector is comprised of enterprises (except agriculture, hunting, forestry and fishing) which employ less than 500 workers. In effect, the EC definitions are based solely on employment rather than a multiplicity of criteria. Secondly, the use of 100 employees as the small firm’s upper limit is more appropriate, given the increase in productivity over the last two decades (Storey, 1994). Finally, the EC definition did not assume the SME group is homogenous; that is, the definition makes a distinction between micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises. However, the EC definition is too all-embracing to be applied to a number of countries. Researchers would have to use definitions for small firms which are more appropriate to their particular â€Å"target† group (an operational definition). It must be emphasized that debates on definitions turn out to be sterile, unless size is a factor which influences performance. For instance, the relationship between size and performance matters when assessing the impact of a credit programme on a target group (Storey, 1994). Weston and Copeland (1998) hold that definitions of size of enterprises suffer from a lack of universal applicability. In their view, this is because enterprises may be conceived of in varying terms. Size has been defined in different contexts, in terms of the number of employees, annual turnover, industry of enterprise, ownership of enterprise, and value of fixed assets. Van der Wijst (1989) considers small and medium businesses as privately held firms with 1 – 9 and 10 – 99 people employed, respectively. Jordan et al (1998) define SMEs as firms with fewer than 100 employees and less than â‚ ¬15 million turnover. Michaelas et al (1999) consider small independent private limited companies with fewer than 200 employees and Lopez and Aybar (2000) considered companies with sales below â‚ ¬15 million as small. According to the British Department of Trade and Industry, the best description of a small firm remains that used by the Bolton Committee in its 1971 Report on Small Firms. This stated that a small firm is an independent business, managed by its owner or part-owners and having a small market share (Department of Trade and Industry, 2001). The UNIDO also defines SMEs in terms of number of employees by giving different classifications for industrialized and developing countries (see Elaian, 1996). The definition for industrialized countries is given as follows: †¢ Large – firms with 500 or more workers; †¢ Medium – firms with 100-499 workers; †¢ Small – firms with 99 or less workers. The classification given for developing countries is as follows: †¢ Large – firms with 100 or more workers; †¢ Medium – firms with 20-99 workers; †¢ Small – firms with 5-19 workers; †¢ Micro – firms with less than 5 workers. It is clear from the various definitions that there is not a general consensus over what constitutes an SME. Definitions vary across industries and also across countries. It is important now to examine definitions of SMEs given in the context of Ghana and South Africa. 2. 1. The Ghanaian Situation There have been various definitions given for small-scale enterprises in Ghana but the most commonly used criterion is the number of employees of the enterprise (Kayanula and Quartey, 2000). In applying this definition, confusion often arises in respect of the arbitrariness and cut off points used by the various official sources. In its Industrial Statistics, the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) considers firms with fewer than 10 employees as small-scale enterprises and their counterparts with more than 10 employees as medium and large-sized enterprises. Ironically, the GSS in its national accounts considered companies with up to 9 employees as SMEs (Kayanula and Quartey, 2000). The value of fixed assets in the firm has also been used as an alternative criterion for defining SMEs. However, the National Board for Small Scale Industries (NBSSI) in Ghana applies both the International Research Journal of Finance and Economics – Issue 39 (2010) 221 â€Å"fixed asset and number of employees† criteria. It defines a small-scale enterprise as a firm with not more than 9 workers, and has plant and machinery (excluding land, buildings and vehicles) not exceeding 10 million Ghanaian cedis. The Ghana Enterprise Development Commission (GEDC), on the other hand, uses a 10 million Ghanaian cedis upper limit definition for plant and machinery. It is important to caution that the process of valuing fixed assets poses a problem. Secondly, the continuous depreciation of the local currency as against major trading currencies often makes such definitions outdated (Kayanula and Quartey, 2000). In defining small-scale enterprises in Ghana, Steel and Webster (1991), and Osei et al (1993) used an employment cut-off point of 30 employees. Osei et al (1993), however, classified small-scale enterprises into three categories. These are: (i) micro – employing less than 6 people; (ii) very small employing 6-9 people; (iii) small – between 10 and 29 employees. A more recent definition is the one given by the Regional Project on Enterprise Development Ghana manufacturing survey paper. The survey report classified firms into: (i) micro enterprise, less than 5 employees; (ii) small enterprise, 5 29 employees; (iii) medium enterprise, 30 – 99 employees; (iv) large enterprise, 100 and more employees (see Teal, 2002). 2. 2. The South African Situation The most widely used framework in South Africa is the definition of the National Small Business Act 102 of 1996, which defines five categories of businesses in South Africa. The definition uses the number of employees (the most common mode of definition) per enterprise size category combined with the annual turnover categories, the gross assets excluding fixed property. The definitions for the various enterprise categories are given as follows: †¢ Survivalist enterprise: The income generated is less than the minimum income standard or the poverty line. This category is considered pre-entrepreneurial, and includes hawkers, vendors and subsistence farmers. (In practice, survivalist enterprises are often categorised as part of the micro-enterprise sector). Micro enterprise: The turnover is less than the VAT registration limit (that is, R150 000 per year). These enterprises usually lack formality in terms of registration. They include, for example, spaza shops, minibus taxis and household industries. They employ no more than 5 people. †¢ Very small enterprise: These are enterprises employing fewer than 10 paid employees, except mining, electricity, manufacturing and construction sectors, in which the figure is 20 employees. These enterprises operate in the formal market and have access to technology. Small enterprise: The upper limit is 50 employees. Small enterprises are generally more established than very small enterprises and exhibit more complex business practices. †¢ Medium enterprise: The maximum number of employees is 100, or 200 for the mining, electricity, manufacturing and construction sectors. These enterprises are often characterised by the decentralisation of power to an additional management layer. The National Small Business Act’s definitions of the different categories of business may be summarised as set out in Table 1 below. 222 Table 1: International Research Journal of Finance and Economics – Issue 39 (2010) Definitions of SMMEs given in the National Small Business Act Number of Employees Fewer than 100 to 200, depending on industry Fewer than 50 Annual Turnover (in South African rand) Less than R4 million to R50 million, depending upon industry Less than R2 million to R25 million, depending on industry Less than R200 000 to R500 000, depending on industry Less than R150 000 Gross Assets, Excluding Fixed Property Less than R2 million to R18 million, depending on industry Less than R2 million to R4. million, depending on industry Less than R150 000 to R500 000, depending on Industry Less than R100 000 Enterprise Size Medium Small Fewer than 10 to 20, depending on industry Micro Fewer than 5 Source: Falkena et al. (2001) Very Small From the above, two key contrast can be drawn between the definitions of SMEs in Ghana and their counterparts in South Africa. First, Act 102 of 1996 defines SMEs in South Africa wh ereas there is no such legislation in Ghana. Secondly, the cut off points for the various SME size categories in South Africa are much higher than that of Ghana. This may be a result of the fact that South Africa has a much higher income levels than Ghana. 3. 0. Characteristics of SMEs in Developing Countries Fisher and Reuber (2000) enumerate a number of characteristics of SMEs in developing countries under the broad headings: labour characteristics, sectors of activity, gender of owner and efficiency. Given that most SMEs are one-person businesses, the largest employment category is working proprietors. This group makes up more than half the SME workforce in most developing countries; their families, who tend to be unpaid but active in the enterprise, make up roughly another quarter. The remaining portion of the workforce is split between hired workers and trainees or apprentices. SMEs are more labour intensive than larger firms and therefore have lower capital costs associated with job creation (Anheier and Seibel, 1987; Liedholm and Mead, 1987; Schmitz, 1995). In terms of activity, they are mostly engaged in retailing, trading, or manufacturing (Fisher and Reuber, 2000). While it is a common perception that the majority of SMEs will fall into the first category, the proportion of SME activity that takes place in the retail sector varies considerably between countries, and between rural and urban regions within countries. Retailing is mostly found in urban regions, while manufacturing can be found in either rural or urban centres. However, the extent of involvement of a country in manufacturing will depend on a number of factors, including, availability of raw materials, taste and consumption patterns of domestic consumers, and the level of development of the export markets. In Ghana, SMEs can be categorized into urban and rural enterprises. The former can be subdivided into â€Å"organized† and â€Å"unorganized† enterprises. The organized ones mostly have paid employees with a registered office, whereas the unorganized category is mainly made up of artisans who work in open spaces, temporary wooden structures, or at home, and employ few or in some cases no salaried workers (Kayanula and Quartey, 2000). They rely mostly on family members or apprentices. Rural enterprises are largely made up of family groups, individual artisans, women engaged in food production from local crops. The major activities within this sector include:- soap and detergents, fabrics, clothing and tailoring, textile and leather, village blacksmiths, tin-smithing, ceramics, timber and mining, bricks and cement, beverages, food processing, bakeries, wood furniture, electronic assembly, agro processing, chemical-based products and mechanics (Osei et al. , 1993; Kayanula and Quartey, 2000). Majority of SMEs are female-owned businesses, which more often than not are home-based compared to those owned by males; they are operated from home and are mostly not considered in official statistics. This clearly affects their chances of gaining access to financing schemes, since such International Research Journal of Finance and Economics – Issue 39 (2010) 223 programmes are designed without sufficient consideration of the needs of businesses owned by females. These female entrepreneurs often get the impression that they are not capable of taking advantage of these credit schemes, because the administrative costs associated with the schemes often outweigh the benefits. Prior empirical studies in Ghana have shown that female-owned SMEs often have difficulty accessing finance. Females are mostly involved in sole-proprietorship businesses which are mainly microenterprises and as such may lack the necessary collateral to qualify for loans (Aryeetey et al, 1994; Abor and Biekpe, 2006). Measures of enterprise efficiency (e. g. labour productivity or total factor productivity) vary greatly both within and across industries. Firm size may be associated with some other factors that are correlated with efficiency, such as managerial skill and technology, and the effects of the policy environment. Most studies in developing countries indicate that the smallest firms are the least efficient, and there is some evidence that both small and large firms are relatively inefficient compared to medium-scale enterprises (Little et al. , 1987). It is often argued that SMEs are more innovative than larger firms. Many small firms bring innovations to the market place, but the contribution of innovations to productivity often takes time, and larger firms may have more resources to adopt and implement them (Acs et al. , 1999). 4. 0. Contributions of SMEs to Economic Development There is a general consensus that the performance of SMEs is important for both economic and social development of developing countries. From the economic perspective, SMEs provide a number of benefits (Advani, 1997). SMEs have been noted to be one of the major areas of concern to many policy makers in an attempt to accelerate the rate of growth in low-income countries. These enterprises have been recognized as the engines through which the growth objectives of developing countries can be achieved. They are potential sources of employment and income in many developing countries. SMEs seem to have advantages over their large-scale competitors in that they are able to adapt more easily to market conditions, given their broadly skilled technologies. They are able to withstand adverse economic conditions because of their flexible nature (Kayanula and Quartey, 2000). SMEs are more labour intensive than larger firms and therefore have lower capital costs associated with job creation (Anheier and Seibel, 1987; Liedholm and Mead, 1987; Schmitz, 1995). They perform useful roles in ensuring income stability, growth and employment. Since SMEs are labour intensive, they are more likely to succeed in smaller urban centres and rural areas, where they can contribute to a more even distribution of economic activity in a region and can help to slow the flow of migration to large cities. Due to their regional dispersion and their labour intensity, it is argued, small-scale production units can promote a more equitable distribution of income than large firms. They also improve the efficiency of domestic markets and make productive use of scarce resources, thus facilitating long-term economic growth (Kayanula and Quartey, 2000). SMEs contribute to a country’s national product by either manufacturing goods of value, or through the provision of services to both consumers and/or other enterprises. This encompasses the provision of products and, to a lesser extent, services to foreign clients, thereby contributing to overall export performance. In Ghana and South Africa, SMEs represent a vast portion of businesses. They represent about 92% of Ghanaian businesses and contribute about 70% to Ghana’s GDP and over 80% to employment. SMEs also account for about 91% of the formal business entities in South Africa, contributing between 52% and 57% of GDP and providing about 61% of employment (CSS, 1998; Ntsika, 1999; Gumede, 2000; Berry et al. , 2002). From an economic perspective, however, enterprises are not just suppliers, but also consumers; this plays an important role if they are able to position themselves in a market with purchasing power: their demand for industrial or consumer goods will stimulate the activity of their suppliers, just as their own activity is stimulated by the demands of their clients. Demand in the form of investment plays a dual role, both from a demand-side (with regard to the suppliers of industrial goods) and on the supplyside (through the potential for new production arising from upgraded equipment). In addition, demand 224 International Research Journal of Finance and Economics – Issue 39 (2010) is important to the income-generation potential of SMEs and their ability to stimulate the demand for both consumer and capital goods (Berry et al. , 2002). 5. 0. General Constraints to SME Development Despite the potential role of SMEs to accelerated growth and job creation in developing countries, a number of bottlenecks affect their ability to realize their full potential. SME development is hampered by a number of factors, including finance, lack of managerial skills, equipment and technology, regulatory issues, and access to international markets (Anheier and Seibel, 1987; Steel and Webster, 1991; Aryeetey et al, 1994; Gockel and Akoena, 2002). The lack of managerial know-how places significant constraints on SME development. Even though SMEs tend to attract motivated managers, they can hardly compete with larger firms. The scarcity of management talent, prevalent in most countries in the region, has a magnified impact on SMEs. The lack of support services or their relatively higher unit cost can hamper SMEs’ efforts to improve their management, because consulting firms are often not equipped with appropriate cost-effective management solutions for SMEs. Besides, despite the numerous institutions providing training and advisory services, there is still a skills gap in the SME sector as a whole (Kayanula and Quartey, 2000). This is because entrepreneurs cannot afford the high cost of training and advisory services while others do not see the need to upgrade their skills due to complacency. In terms of technology, SMEs often have difficulties in gaining access to appropriate technologies and information on available techniques (Aryeetey et al. , 1994). In most cases, SMEs utilize foreign technology with a scarce percentage of shared ownership or leasing. They usually acquire foreign licenses, because local patents are difficult to obtain. Regulatory constraints also pose serious challenges to SME development and although wideranging structural reforms have led to some improvements, prospects for enterprise development remain to be addressed at the firm-level. The high start-up costs for firms, including licensing and registration requirements, can impose excessive and unnecessary burdens on SMEs. The high cost of settling legal claims, and excessive delays in court proceedings adversely affect SME operations. In the case of Ghana, the cumbersome procedure for registering and commencing business are key issues often cited. The World Bank Doing Business Report (2006) indicated that it takes 127 days to deal with licensing issues and there are 16 procedures involved in licensing a business in Ghana. It takes longer (176 days) in South Africa and there were 18 procedures involved in dealing with licensing issues. Meanwhile, the absence of antitrust legislation favours larger firms, while the lack of protection for property rights limits SMEs’ access to foreign technologies (Kayanula and Quartey, 2000). Previously insulated from international competition, many SMEs are now faced with greater external competition and the need to expand market share. However, their limited international marketing experience, poor quality control and product standardisation, and little access to international partners, continue to impede SMEs’ expansion into international markets (Aryeetey et al. , 1994). They also lack the necessary information about foreign markets. One important problem that SMEs often face is access to capital (Lader, 1996). Lack of adequate financial resources places significant constraints on SME development. Cook and Nixson (2000) observe that, notwithstanding the recognition of the role of SMEs in the development process in many developing countries, SMEs development is always constrained by the limited availability of financial resources to meet a variety of operational and investment needs. A World Bank study found that about 90% of small enterprises surveyed stated that credit was a major constraint to new investment (Parker et al. , 1995). Levy (1993) also found that there is limited access to financial resources available to smaller enterprises compared to larger organisations and the consequences for their growth and development. The role of finance has been viewed as a critical element for the development of SMEs (Cook and Nixson, 2000). A large portion of the SME sector does not have access to adequate and appropriate forms of credit and equity, or indeed to financial services more generally (Parker et al. , 1995). In competing for the corporate market, formal financial institutions have structured their products to serve the needs of large corporates. International Research Journal of Finance and Economics – Issue 39 (2010) 225 A cursory analysis of survey and research results of SMEs in South Africa, for instance, reveals common reactions from SME owners interviewed. When asked what they perceive as constraints in their businesses and especially in establishing or expanding their businesses, they answered that access to funds is a major constraint. This is reflected in perception questions answered by SME owners in many surveys (see BEES, 1995; Graham and Quattara, 1996; Rwingema and Karungu, 1999). This situation is not different in the case of Ghana (see Sowa et al. , 1992; Aryeetey, 1998; Bigsten et al. , 2000, Abor and Biekpe 2006, 2007; Quartey, 2002). A priori, it might seem surprising that finance should be so important. Requirements such as identifying a product and a market, acquiring any necessary property rights or licenses, and keeping proper records are all in some sense more fundamental to running a small enterprise than is finance (Green et al. , 2002). Some studies have consequently shown that a large number of small enterprises fail because of non-financial reasons. Other constraints SMEs face include: lack of access to appropriate technology; the existence of laws, regulations and rules that impede the development of the sector; weak institutional capacity and lack of management skills and training (see Sowa et al. , 1992; Aryeetey et al. , 1994; Parker et al. , 1995; Kayanula and Quartey, 2000). However, potential providers of finance, whether formal or informal, are unlikely to commit funds to a business which they view as not being on a sound footing, irrespective of the exact nature of the unsoundness. Lack of funds may be the immediate reason for a business failing to start or to progress, even when the more fundamental reason lies elsewhere. Finance is said to be the â€Å"glue† that holds together all the diverse aspects involved in small business start-up and development (Green et al. , 2002). 6. 0. Conclusion This paper has reviewed various definitions of SMEs and also discussed the characteristics, contributions of SMEs to economic development, and the constraints to SME development. In reviewing the definitions of SMEs, it was concluded that there is no single, universal, uniformly acceptable definition of SMEs. Several measures or indicators have been used to define the SME sector. The most commonly used is the number of employees of the enterprise. However, in applying this definition, confusion often arises in respect of the arbitrariness and cut-off points used by various official sources. The definitions of SMEs within the context of Ghana and South Africa were also examined, given that this paper focuses on these two countries. SMEs often fall into two categories, that is, urban and rural enterprises. The former can be sub-divided into â€Å"organized† and â€Å"unorganized† enterprises. The organized groups have registered offices and paid workers, whilst the unorganized ones are mainly made up of artisans. Rural enterprises are largely made up of family groups and individual artisans. The activities in the SME sector range from pottery and ceramics to manufacturing of spare parts and electronic assembly. SMEs in Ghana and South Africa have a lot of similarities in terms of their characteristics as well as the vital role they play in the two economies. However, they differ in terms of size and regulation. For instance, the cut off point for the various categories of SMEs in Ghana are much lower than they pertain in South Africa. Secondly, whereas a national legislation defines an SME in South Africa, no such Act exist in Ghana. The study also observed that SMEs constitute a vital element of the development process, and their contributions in terms of production, employment and income in developing countries is widely recognized. Hence, interest in the role of SMEs in the development process continues to be high on the agenda of policy makers in the two countries. Notwithstanding the recognition, the development of SMEs is always constrained by a number of factors such as, lack of access to appropriate technology, limited access to international markets, the existence of laws, regulations and rules that impede the development of the sector; weak institutional capacity and lack of management skills and training. However, access to finance remains the greatest concern for the majority of SMEs. This study suggests that, to improve access to credit to SMEs, entrepreneurs should be encouraged to form cooperatives since financial institutions believe peer pressure often reduces the risk 26 International Research Journal of Finance and Economics – Issue 39 (2010) of default, Secondly, the government through tax incentives can encourage certain training institutions and NGOs to provide training to entrepreneurs on simple record keeping and managerial know-how. Also, a national legislation in Ghana to define what constitutes an SME and their leg al as well as tax obligations will help to integrate a number of informal enterprises into the formal framework. This should be complemented with steps to minimize the legal procedures involved in doing business in both countries. It is also suggested that technology transfer through simple, inexpensive and adaptable technology should be promoted to enhance the productivity of SMEs. References [1] [2] Abor, J. and N. 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