Sources of Internation Power Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Sources of Internation Power - Essay Example This angered the most of those in Afghanistan since Muslim belief was a strong belief in the country. Many Muslim leaders got arrested, and others fled the capital and went to the mountains escaping Amin's police. Amin led a government based on communists who rejected religion caused discontent within the government. Most Afghanistan Muslims joined a rebel force for Allah called Mujahideen. They wanted the overthrow of the Amin government. They declared a holy war on Amin’s supporters. This got stretched out to the Russians in Afghanistan attempting to maintain Amin’s power in government (Arnold 1985). Russians argued that they got invited in by the Amin government and were not attacking the country. Their claim was that their task was to help an authentic government and that their rebel forces were not terrorists. Amin got shot by Russians on December 27th, 1979. He got replaced by Babrak Kamal. For him to head the Afghan government, it was necessary for the Russian mi litary to support him and keep him in power. Most Afghanistan soldiers left for the Mujahedeen. The Kamal government required over 80,000 Russian soldiers for him to be in power. The Mujahideen were difficult opponents. They had old rifles with no knowledge of the mountains next to Kabal and the expected weather conditions (Clements 2003). The Russians decided to use poison gas, helicopter gunships and napalm against the Mujahideen. Unfortunately, they encountered the same military state the Americans did in Vietnam. The Mujahideen controlled most of Afghanistan by 1982 although they fought the second most powerful military authority in the world. Young Russian soldiers did not match against men with religious beliefs. Although the Russian army had a strong reputation, the Afghanistan war showed the world how poor it was aside military displays. Army strikes did not last longer than 10 days without failing in this harsh Afghanistan environment. Most Russian soldiers fled to the Muja hideen. Russian tanks did not have any use in the mountain passes. America banned the export of grain to Russia. It also ended SALT talks that were taking place and embargoed the Olympic Games that were to be due to take place in Moscow come 1980. America also did nothing since they knew Russia got itself into a Vietnam and it provided American Intelligence with a chance of acquiring new Russian military rifles to be used in Afghanistan. The Mujahideen fighters could access American surface-to-air missiles (Collins 1986). Towards the end of 1980's, the Mujahideen was fighting with itself in Afghanistan with hardcore Taliban fighters clutching the whole nation. It imposed strict Muslim law on Afghanistan’s. The Soviet invasion of Afghanistan was quite Vietnam-like in cruelty, killing millions of Afghans and tearing apart a country with little religious fanaticism and making advances to women. Afghanistan became a base for terrorists, in the disorder. When Ronald Reagan took of fice 1981, he upheld the Carter emphasis about the Persian Gulf-Arabian Peninsula sector which followed the Soviet attack of Afghanistan. His approach to the Middle East problems resulting from the assumptions different from initial assumptions of the Carter administration. He held that the major threat to peace in the region was not the Arab-Israeli disagreement but the Russian and its policies. It was necessary to restore American ability and reliability that could be enabled by building

RNA silencing for the prevention of Phytophthora root rot in avocado Literature review

RNA silencing for the prevention of Phytophthora root rot in avocado - Literature review Example So, the scientists and the concerned people have found out a way to tackle this menace [2]. It is the use of RNA. The RNA is used to inhibit specific gene expression of the plants to prevent Phytophthora root rot in avocado plants. It was further found that the growing population is causing a sharp increase in the demand of the avocado across all over the world [3]. In order meet the rise in the demand, the farmers or the cultivators are using a number of elements to increase the production of the avocados. Overuse of the elements is further affecting the plants. The plants are getting affected by pests. Among them the rot root fungi is the most common form of the pests. Excessive spread of the fungi would destroy the crop and highly affect the cultivation of the crops so the scientists have discovered a number of methods which would prevent this. Among them RNA slicing is one of the most common methods for the prevention of Phytophthora root rot in avocado. According to a study, it was found that the Phytophthora root rot in avocado is primarily caused by Phytophthora cinnamomi, which is an economically important disease in the avocados around the world [1]. The crops when affected with fungi and gets harmed with Phytophthora root rot, it completely destroys the crops and leaving co crop for sell and make money out of it. In Australian agriculture, economic cost of losing were estimated in previous 20 years to be more than AUS$200 million per year [] and around US$44million in California annually []. The RNA silencing is used to increase the resistance of the avocado trees with the help of transgenic rootstocks. It is expected to reduce the incidences of fungi attack on the avocado plants. It was found that the fungi attack on the avocado trees could be prevented with the help of RNA interference process [4]. The authors further explain RNA interference as a cellular process where the RNA molecules

Royal Engineer Regiment (RER) Leadership in the Military

Royal Engineer Regiment (RER) Leadership in the Military CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION 1.1 BACKGROUND The Royal Engineer Regiment (RER), being one of the combat support arms in the Malaysian Army has the role and tasks of assisting the Army in the field of engineering. This paper will highlight the command and control of RER Interpersonal Leadership in the construction projects management. The main role and task of RER is to carry out major construction tasks including improvement and maintenance beyond the capabilities of the Regiment or any engineering organization. There is normally an army engineer officer at all levels of command to advise the commander on engineering requirements Project management for engineering and construction presents the principles and techniques of managing engineering and construction projects from the owners study through design and construction to completion. It emphasizes project management during the early stages of project development because the ability to influence the quality, cost, and schedule of a project can best be achieved during the early stage of command and control. This paper will focus on the mental side of RER leadership for handling construction projects rather than the technology side of the projects. This paper integrates interpersonal dynamic of army engineer leadership dominating personal power enhancing numerous examples, experiences and comments to illustrate the material presented in the text. We will learn from the leaders of the past whose behaviors and actions shape our ever-changing world. Most important, is transformational of leadership approaches are the â€Å"secret† behind the success of our greatest leaders or the powerful Islamic teaching arouse the personal competence and loyalty? The intended audience of this paper is not limited to the today army leaders but for leaders of tomorrow who will hopefully benefit from the lessons of this research paper as they face the challenges of globalization in an increasingly interconnected world. With the discussions and illustrations, this paper is led through the multifunctional professionalism and confidence of RER linking the components of a project into a comprehensive work plan to guide the entire project to successful completion. 1.1.1 LEADERSHIP IS A PROCESS In my opinion, theres something quite different between army engineer leaders and civilian engineer leaders. An army engineer leaders must be able to handle multiples tasks. These groups work together in a superior-subordinate concept for command positions and formal leadership for engineering project management. All leaders take similar oaths upon entry to the Army. From day one, new Second Lieutenants are thrust into positions of significant responsibility. As a young nineteen to twenty-two years old leader, they are directly responsible for thirty to fifty-four soldiers. AsRER officers progress through the ranks, they continue to develop their leadership in RER design and construction projects. As a result, they will be given positions of increased responsibility and can eventually lead 120 to 318 soldiers. Where else would a young engineer with only a few years experience have the skill set to lead that many people? The corporate world, engineering consultant or construction would rarely ever let a new engineer university graduate supervise 30 peop le. In fact, some army engineer officers take their both technical expertise and army leadership skills and leave the RER. Their technical and army leadership skills are in such high demand, they can easily market themselves in the corporate world. As an army engineer officer, our duties will be diverse but extremely important. Army Engineer leadership is based on a concept of duty, service and perhaps importantly self-sacrifice. To join the army, we must pass a physical examination and sign the enlistment contract. With the enlistment contract, well agree to certain options such as the time frame of our active duty and our enlistment date. All army engineers participate in a course that introduces them to life as a soldier. The basic combat training centre at Kolej Tentera Darat and Pusat Asas Latihan Tentera Darat are a part of our course, will teach the same skills that are taught to other soldiers, so we will be prepared to fire weapons, engage the enemy in hand-to-hand combat, stay in good physical shape and otherwise succeed in a combat situation. As an Army field engineer (Jurutera Medan), we will work in a team to ensure that units dont have mobility problems when completing missions. We view our obligations to followers as a moral responsibility and we teach this value priority to junior leaders. We will be responsible for performing constructing bridges, demolition, clear routes, generating electrical power, constructing obstacles to serve as defense positions and training our team members including administrations, but our exact duties will vary from day to days. Our training will teach the skills we need to do our job as safely as possible. A useful skill to have and to become an army engineer is LEADERSHIP. We should be able to make quick and focused decisions to successfully complete our mission. Also, we need to be confident, intelligent, self-disciplined and enterprising. Army Field Engineering Institute or Institut Kejuruteraan Medan Tentera Darat (IKEM) role is to train all officers and soldiers in the RER as well as officers and other ranks from the Army in engineer related courses. With that concept in mind, IKEM developed a modular concept built around engineer staff/technical courses. IKEM was designed to train staff officer skills specialise in the field of engineering and these will allow the mind to better absorb and understand concepts and thus increase overall retention and depth of knowledge to the Army engineer. One of the keys to our success has been the many ideas, comments and concerns from the field. The diversity of the RER requires multiple assignments oriented training opportunities for its officers. Exposure to multiple and diverse jobs will provide breadth to an officers knowledge. Just as the Army Engineer transforms to the Objective Force to meet the challenges of the 21st century security environment, so too must the Army tran sform its education system to train and educate the leaders who will command and control that force. The Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (UPNM) is the first university in Malaysia that provided for the countrys need in modern armed forces educations transformation. The university is fully a military university. There are 11 courses that are offered and these are balance of the fields in management, sciences and engineering. But aside from the academics, the students though are graded through their military leadership and physical fitness. These changes seek to provide the right education in the right medium to the right leader at the right time and place. The RER must have an ability to read a changing situation and react fastest. The adage â€Å"first in, last out †aptly applies to its significance and manifestation of its importance in supportingthe Army in discharging its roles. During my short 17 years of army engineer experience, Ive had the opportunity to serve with several dynamic leaders. These leaders all possessed similar traits such as vision, leadership, decisiveness, technical and tactical expertise, intelligence and compassion. Ive taken bits and peaces from each leader and formed my very own leadership style.A commander must be a motivated achiever with a â€Å"can do† attitude. RER commanders qualities are formed in a progressive and sequential series of carefully planned training, educational, and experiential. RER project management requires a multi-discipline focus to coordinate the overall needs of a project with reliance on others to provide the technical expertise. RER commander must be able to delegate authority and responsibility to others and still retain focus on the linking process between disciplines. RER Commander cannot become overly involved in detailed tasks or take over the discipline they are educated in, but should focus on the project objectives. 1.1.2 DEFINITION OF RER ENGINEERING PROJECT The RER project includes both construction and major repair/maintenance project. RER construction project is defined as all military construction work or any contribution authorized necessary to produce a complete and useable facility or a complete and useable improvement to an existing facility. Generally, construction includes: The erection, installation or assembly of a new facility. The addition, expansion, extension, alteration, relocation, or replacement of an existing facility. Site preparation, excavation, filling, landscaping, land improvements, utility connections and installed equipment. Repair or maintenance project means to restore a real property facility, system or component to such a condition that it may effectively be used for its designated functional purpose. When repairing a facility, the components of the facility may be repaired by replacement and such replacement may be up to current standards or codes. RER project practice may be construction only or a combination of design and construction. A project consists of three components: scope, budget and schedule. When a project first assigned to a commander, it is important that three of these components be clearly defined. Scope represents the work to be accomplished, for example, the quantity and quality of work. Budget refers to costs and schedule refers to the logical sequencing and timing of the work to be performed. The quality of a project must meet the owners satisfaction and is an integral part of project management as illustrated in figure 1. Figure 1 is shown as an equilateral triangle to represent an important principle of RER project management. Any increase in the scope of work requires a corresponding increase in budget and schedule. Conversely, any decrease in scope of work results in a corresponding decrease in budget and schedule. For example, any adjustment in budget and/or schedule requires a corresponding adjustment in scope. It is the duty of an engineer commander to ensure that the project scope, budget, and schedule are linked together. Budgeting is important because it establishes the amount of money the owner will spend to obtain the project and the amount of money that the design and construction organizations will be compensated for performing the work. The construction phase is important because most of the project budget is expended during construction. Also, the operation and maintenance of the completed project is highly dependent on the quality of work that is performed during construction. Quality is an element that is integrated into and between all parts of a project: scope, budget and schedule. 1.2 PROBLEM STATEMENT Today, project management has reached a maturity level in which it is applied in the RER building and construction projects. Commander faces dilemmas that require choices between competing sets of values and priorities. The best commander recognizes and faces them with a commitment to do the right thing the right way. What does the right things mean? Does it mean the morally right things? The ethically right things? The right things for the squadron to be successful? and whos to say what the right things are? Effective team work is a key element in any successful project. Teamwork must be start early in the process, and it must be continuous throughout the live of a projects. Why do communications fail? Focus on personal power, there are therefore no easy answers to the questions from where and when did the powerful religious dimensions first begin to make an impact on interpersonal dynamic of RER spiritual power in the accomplishment of the project. RER linking specific challenges to be faced and overcome through professionalism and confidence to bring a project successful completion. In the concept of duty and service, RER must be fit and perform under mental and physical pressure. How does RER could organize one project in the multifunctional roles with multiple tasks continue to fit in the plan that had been scheduled? In the concept of human nature, how does the RER can survive by pushing them in the panic button in line with low spiritual power? Will the completion of the project help that organization accomplish its goals? 1.3 AIM OF RESEARCH The research will analyze the interpersonal dynamic of RER leaders and its relationship between his leadership and RER management in the construction project, as showing in the figure 2 1.4 RESEARCH OBJECTIVES The research will cover the following objectives: Explore interpersonal dynamic in organization for good management, powerful leadership, and effective project management team. Discuss leadership roles from an Islamic perspectivewhich taking the examples of the past leader feature. Establishes personal power for dominating the work as the key to success. Effectiveness study of project management countermeasure as an important point of reference for improvement projects planned for the future. 1.5 SIGNIFICANCE OF RESEARCH RER moves forward into the 21st century to meet the challenges of a changing strategic and operational landscape. RER commanders qualities are formed in a progressive and sequential series of carefully planned training, educational, and experiential. Commander in such circumstances must be led in ways that inspire, rather than require, trust and confidence to hold high levels of responsibility. When followers have trust and confidence in a dynamic commander, they are transformed into willing, rather than merely compliant, agents. Much of the leadership practiced in todays Army achieves compliance from followers. Unfortunately, the compliance is not enough. The process of influencing followers behaviors accomplished the commanders goal by pushing them in the panic button. Some RER projects end, either as a casualty because of excessive cost and/or schedule overrun, or failure to accomplish their performance expectations. Engineering situations had enforced some engineer leaders bringing strong technical skills to the job site, but few possess the management skills it takes to successful coordinate the many phases of a construction projects. Also some current army engineer officers required technical engineering skills improvement initiative for supporting their expertise to plan and organise each stage of the projects. These lack of managerial and technical expertise is often the underlying reason for project delay, excessive spending, and ultimately dissatisfied. The significance of this paper is to help us be more effective in leadership situations by helping us better understand the complex challenges of commander command and control in RER. 1.6 LITERATURE REVIEW Indeed, there are a few books and articles that gave a brief account on the activities related to the research which provide to be useful for the literature review in the preparation of this study. Some of the literatures reviewed are listed below: a. Achieving Effective Performance for Unit Commanders written by Brig Gen Abdullah bin Babu, Lt Col Allatif Mohd Noh and Lt Col A.Endry Nixon published by Ministry of Defence Malaysia, 2002. This book explained the development of human resource, organization, information of technology, logistic, policies and instruction become the sinews of a more professionally focused and pragmatic Army driven by knowledge. It also provides insights and suggestive tools for commanders to use astutely as a competitive advantage in their pursuance for effective performance. b. Management i n Engineering: Principle and Practice Second Edition written by Gail Freeman-Bell and James Balkwill by Prentice Hall, 1996. This book presents the principle and techniques of managing engineering and construction projects from the conceptual phase, through design and construction and to completion. Much of the information in this book is based on formal and informal discussions with these project managers who are actively involved in the practice of project management. It informations related to the research where it has common elements of effective project management that have been successfully applied in practice. c. Total Construction Project Management written by George J. Ritz by McGraw-Hill Inc, 1994. This book is designed to give a construction manager the essential tools to survive and prosper in a highly competitive environment. Its significance in developing construction management and technology skills where both of it parallel paths to total construction management. It also emphasizes the person who is in responsible charge of the field activities must practice total construction project management to meet their project and personal goals. In the RER, the mental side of constructions management is frequently been used. Thus, this book is extremely beneficial to this research. d. Military Review The Professional Journal of The United State-Leadership, August 1994. This journal is review about World War II almanac. The author discussed about the theory of leadership where provided unique perspectives on leadership in both traditional and nontraditional applications that have much to offer to those who would lead. The authors also present their views on the rule of law and human right where there are a few issues that need to be addressed. e. Manual Procedure of Regiment Engineer Regiment (MP 4.1.1 TD). This manual provided sufficient information for staff and commanders at all levels in the course of their planning with regard to employment and deployment of engineers. There are three parts in this manual which are Organization, Command and Employment of Engineers as a Part One, Conduct of Battle as a Part Two and Engineer Operations as a Part Three. Each part had clarified briefly any matters of engineer needs to fulfilled its roles and functions. 1.7 LIMITATION OF RESEARCH This paper sources limited to the common RER construction projects through my personal thoughts and opinions on the management aspect. This paper is designed primarily, offer just one persons views on how to be a better army engineer and commander. There are a limited numbers of publications by the Services on the subject.As an army engineer officer is under the rules to be safeguard of all information that maintained by the Government of Malaysia as defense strategic and security . It is not to be divulged to a non-security organization unless authorized by the Ministry of Defence. It is also not to be used for other than military purpose and it is strictly not to be released to another country without the consent of the Ministry of Defence. Hence, the appointment for discussions will depend on the time availability of correspondents. 1.8 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY The research methodology is based on the lessons of the past leaders features. As an army engineer experience in working with numbers of construction projects in the RER much of the information in this research is based on formal and informal discussions with these project army engineer officers and commanders, who are actively, involved in the practice of RER construction projects. A common example is used throughout this research to illustrate the project management. Secondary data and information were uses as qualitative methodology with source from Al- Quran and Hadis, books and articles in journals found in the libraries. Besides, the study also utilized the facility offered by the Internet, which is a rich minefield of information recent on views, issues and updates. 1.9 ORGANIZATION OF CHAPTERS The paper is divided into five chapters. Chapter One begins by interpreting interpersonal dynamic. Next, discuss of project leadership that is importance because commander states that leadership is not a property of the individual but a complex relationship among many variables. Finally, defines general principles related to project management and presenting RER major constructions, improvement and maintenance project review role of Engineer Command and Control. The basic principles must be fully understood because many of the problems associated with project management are caused by failure to apply them. Chapter Two seeks to propagate the idea that interpersonal dynamic from an islamic perspective. Defining personal power of commander as the capacity or potential to exert influence and influence tactics as the degree of change in a persons attitudes, values or behaviors. Take the example of the story of Salahudin Al-Ayubis victory in the re-capture of Jerusalem; the powerful religious dimensions of the army engineer should arouse the personal competence and loyalty (jihad fi-sabilillah). Chapter Three begin to discuss the important of personal management skill to be a good planner, delegator and communicator with the progress of the battle of Badr commanded by the Prophet Muhammad SAW. RER leadership must set priorities and develop a system to manage time. Next, this paper is highlight the successful project management can best be described as effective communications between the people who perform the work that is necessary to complete the projects. Finally, stress on the important of construction phase because the quality of the completed project is highly dependent on the workmanship and management of construction. Chapter Four focus on major conditions that must be present for building effective project teams where its becoming increasingly more important. Taken a lesson from the battle of Uhud, Engineer commander have to organize and manage their teams across organizational lines. This paper considerable attention has been given to the Total Quality Management (TQM) concept that emphasizes teamwork at all levels of an organization to improve the quality of the project and achieve maximum customer satisfaction. Chapter Five concludes that RER leaders has a duty to perform, preserve and enhance the unity, strength, tranquility and development of society through interpersonal dynamic and highlights the project management countermeasure as an important point of reference for improvement projects planned for the future. One of the most important points in this chapter is situational engineering which manages the interaction between the leader, the followers and the situations with a high level of lateral interdependence. CHAPTER 2 POWER AND INFLUENCE 2.1 BACKGROUND Power is like a coin. It has two sides. One side is the official authority or legal power that is given to an individual who is occupying an organizational position of RER such as Engineer Commander. On the other side of the power is the influence that an individual has with regard to the organization of RER. The first sides of power stated in this chapter are legitimate power, personal power, expert power and referent power. The second side cannot be delegated. It depends on the knowledge, skills and attitudes of the individual and the competency that there are able to develop and sustain in the management of the project and in their dealings with the higher commander in RER. Most failures in the management of the projects are as follows: Failure to define the specificity of authority and responsibility of the Engineer Commander in the RER project. Negative attitudes on the part of project, functional and Chief of Engineer (CE) and team members who support a sharing of authority and responsibility over the resources to be used to support that projects. Lack of familiarity with the theoretical construction and the context in which that organizational design is applied. Failure of Engineer Commander to promote synergy and unity within and between RER levels and with outside organizational so that resources, results and rewards can be shared. This type of promotion requires true team work, discussion, cooperation of all RER committee, education and the opening and maintenance of many lines of communication. 2.2 SOURCES OF LEADERSHIP Leaders who can reward and punish followers may have a greater capacity to influence followers than those leaders who cannot use rewards or punishments. Legitimate power depends on a persons organizational role. Legitimate power means a leader has authority because he has been assigned a particular role in an organization. For example, in military the colonel can order compliance with uniform standards. However, follower or situational characteristics may diminish a leaders potential to influence followers as when the leader has less his personal power. Expert Power is the power of knowledge. Knowledge has always been of paramount importance as a source of development. In the military profession, it is extremely important to be aware of the continuous changes in military affair. The RER needs to equip itself with relevant knowledge and skills to face these complex challenges. Powerful individuals enhance learning from experiences. One way to counteract the problems stemming from a lack of expertise is to build strong interpersonal ties with subordinates. Referent power refers to the behavior and religion practices together have due to the strength of the relationship between the leader and the subordinates. When subordinates admirer a leader and see him as a role model, he has referent power. The story of Salahudin Al-Ayubis victory in the re-capture of Jerusalem is an important part of history that Muslims must study. However, in studies on the history victories in the crusades, figurism or heroism in the army is emphasized. This is not necessarily the better approach. Such an approach distracts us from the real illnesses present among Muslims, which become the reason for our defeat waiting for the distances a person from the role that he should be playing even while waiting for the appearance of a leader figure to bring about solutions to problems. To quote Salahudin Al-Ayubi as an example: â€Å"Salahuddin Al Ayyubi was born to an aristocratic family in Tikrit (Kurdistan-Iraq) in 1138 CE. His education was simple: the Quran, Hadith, some mathematics, law, literature, genealogy: of men and horses. Initially, he did not seem to have any special interest in military sciences. In 1169 at the age of 31, he was appointed both Commander-in-chief of the Syrian troops and vizier of Egypt. He was the Muslim ruler of Egypt, Syria, Yemen, and Palestine and one of the most famous of Muslim heroes. Salahuddin was 26 when was sent as a commander to aid the Fatimid rulers of Egypt against the Crusaders who were joined by a unit of the Egyptian army. In wars against the Christian crusaders, he achieved final success with the disciplined capture of Jerusalem (Oct. 2, 1187), ending its 88-year occupation by the Franks. The great Christian counterattack of the Third Crusade was the stalemated by Salahuddins remarkable leadership and military brilliance. He had a great love for Islam and he tried hard to root out the Crusaders. For this purpose, he maintained a strong army. To Salahuddin, Jihad started from the inside. He had to watch himself and his aids and soldiers to make sure that they behaved in compliance with Devine commandments in all spheres of life, spiritual, moral and material. Hence, when his advisor suggested to him, why do you not save the money you give in charity to the poor and religious teachers, and spend it in our war efforts? Salahuddin replied: I could not do that because the prayers of poor people and religious teachers were such a source of strength in wars†. UsingSalahuddin Al Ayyubi as a role model of leadership, it is indeed time for the RER leadership to carry out a serious introspection and internal correction of oneself. Leaders must be aware of how good they can perform and how their behavior affects the performance. A leader may need to change his behavior before trying to change the behavior of his subordinates. Salahuddins singleness of purpose induced his subordinates to rearm both physically and spiritually. Salahuddins every act was inspired by edifying works especially on the jihad itself. Salahuddins personal power in religion practice and moralities had won the hearts of his subordinates, so that he could accomplished his goal. Today, the RER leadership uses the approaches of getting work done through fear, or centralizing decision making, or decentralizing decision making, and some even allow the group to establish its own goals and make its own decisions. By using these approaches, do not mean the goal is cannot accompli sh but they may separates harmonizes environments between the leaders and subordinates. Our current generation has so much to learn from Salahuddin. But first let us remind ourselves that history generally tells us about the bravery and leadership of commanders of war and rulers. Islamic History taught in school also tells us of the bravery and the rule of Islamic leaders, from the honourable Prophet Muhammad SAW to the fall of Islam in Ottoman Turkey. This finally created awareness among the people that in fighting for the Islamic cause, they should begin with the local power struggle. In the RER construction project this matter may affect the quality of work performance that will be presented project results as shown in Appendix A. The RER leadership must also prepare to take a new direction to explore and study some of the traits relate physical factor, some abilities, many to personalities and social characteristics to support the roles of activity, intelligence, knowledge, dominance and self-confidence. May be we can begin to learn and practice the first step by taking the example of Salahuddin which through assertive moral rejuvenation to fit a genuine part of own way of life. 2.3 INFLUENCE TACTICS AND POWER Influence tactics are the actual behaviors used by a leader to change the attitudes, opinions, or behaviors of a target person. Commanders who have only legitimate power may be able to use only legitimizing, pushing or pressure tactics to influence his subordinates. Dont threaten or dont push them in the panic button. I know its done by some of our leaders, but I dont go for it. If people are running scared or tension, theyre not going to make the good job or the right decisions. Theyll make the job or decisions to please the commander rather than recommend what has to be done. Commander should attempts to get in a good mood before making a request. People typically use soft tactics when theyre at a disadvantage, when they aspect resistance or when they will personally benefit if the attempt is successful. People typically use rational tactics (logical arguments or factual evidence) when parties are relatively equal in power and when resistance is not anticipated. Some leaders are able to influence others through their relative expertise in particular areas. We may not have state of the art technology or weapons in the region but having the best interpersonal leader who can think critically, analytically and professionally would make a difference in the management of the project. Soldiers who have been in combat or project before are valued for the lessons learned and wisdom they can share with others. Because expert power is a function of the amount of knowledge one possesses relative to the rest of the members of the group, it is possible for followers to have considerably more expert power than leaders in certain situations. For example, new RER officer often possess less knowledge of the jobs and task performed in a particular work unit than the followers do. In this case, the followers can potentially wield considerable influence when decisions are made regarding work procedures, new equipment or Royal Engineer Regiment (RER) Leadership in the Military Royal Engineer Regiment (RER) Leadership in the Military CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION 1.1 BACKGROUND The Royal Engineer Regiment (RER), being one of the combat support arms in the Malaysian Army has the role and tasks of assisting the Army in the field of engineering. This paper will highlight the command and control of RER Interpersonal Leadership in the construction projects management. The main role and task of RER is to carry out major construction tasks including improvement and maintenance beyond the capabilities of the Regiment or any engineering organization. There is normally an army engineer officer at all levels of command to advise the commander on engineering requirements Project management for engineering and construction presents the principles and techniques of managing engineering and construction projects from the owners study through design and construction to completion. It emphasizes project management during the early stages of project development because the ability to influence the quality, cost, and schedule of a project can best be achieved during the early stage of command and control. This paper will focus on the mental side of RER leadership for handling construction projects rather than the technology side of the projects. This paper integrates interpersonal dynamic of army engineer leadership dominating personal power enhancing numerous examples, experiences and comments to illustrate the material presented in the text. We will learn from the leaders of the past whose behaviors and actions shape our ever-changing world. Most important, is transformational of leadership approaches are the â€Å"secret† behind the success of our greatest leaders or the powerful Islamic teaching arouse the personal competence and loyalty? The intended audience of this paper is not limited to the today army leaders but for leaders of tomorrow who will hopefully benefit from the lessons of this research paper as they face the challenges of globalization in an increasingly interconnected world. With the discussions and illustrations, this paper is led through the multifunctional professionalism and confidence of RER linking the components of a project into a comprehensive work plan to guide the entire project to successful completion. 1.1.1 LEADERSHIP IS A PROCESS In my opinion, theres something quite different between army engineer leaders and civilian engineer leaders. An army engineer leaders must be able to handle multiples tasks. These groups work together in a superior-subordinate concept for command positions and formal leadership for engineering project management. All leaders take similar oaths upon entry to the Army. From day one, new Second Lieutenants are thrust into positions of significant responsibility. As a young nineteen to twenty-two years old leader, they are directly responsible for thirty to fifty-four soldiers. AsRER officers progress through the ranks, they continue to develop their leadership in RER design and construction projects. As a result, they will be given positions of increased responsibility and can eventually lead 120 to 318 soldiers. Where else would a young engineer with only a few years experience have the skill set to lead that many people? The corporate world, engineering consultant or construction would rarely ever let a new engineer university graduate supervise 30 peop le. In fact, some army engineer officers take their both technical expertise and army leadership skills and leave the RER. Their technical and army leadership skills are in such high demand, they can easily market themselves in the corporate world. As an army engineer officer, our duties will be diverse but extremely important. Army Engineer leadership is based on a concept of duty, service and perhaps importantly self-sacrifice. To join the army, we must pass a physical examination and sign the enlistment contract. With the enlistment contract, well agree to certain options such as the time frame of our active duty and our enlistment date. All army engineers participate in a course that introduces them to life as a soldier. The basic combat training centre at Kolej Tentera Darat and Pusat Asas Latihan Tentera Darat are a part of our course, will teach the same skills that are taught to other soldiers, so we will be prepared to fire weapons, engage the enemy in hand-to-hand combat, stay in good physical shape and otherwise succeed in a combat situation. As an Army field engineer (Jurutera Medan), we will work in a team to ensure that units dont have mobility problems when completing missions. We view our obligations to followers as a moral responsibility and we teach this value priority to junior leaders. We will be responsible for performing constructing bridges, demolition, clear routes, generating electrical power, constructing obstacles to serve as defense positions and training our team members including administrations, but our exact duties will vary from day to days. Our training will teach the skills we need to do our job as safely as possible. A useful skill to have and to become an army engineer is LEADERSHIP. We should be able to make quick and focused decisions to successfully complete our mission. Also, we need to be confident, intelligent, self-disciplined and enterprising. Army Field Engineering Institute or Institut Kejuruteraan Medan Tentera Darat (IKEM) role is to train all officers and soldiers in the RER as well as officers and other ranks from the Army in engineer related courses. With that concept in mind, IKEM developed a modular concept built around engineer staff/technical courses. IKEM was designed to train staff officer skills specialise in the field of engineering and these will allow the mind to better absorb and understand concepts and thus increase overall retention and depth of knowledge to the Army engineer. One of the keys to our success has been the many ideas, comments and concerns from the field. The diversity of the RER requires multiple assignments oriented training opportunities for its officers. Exposure to multiple and diverse jobs will provide breadth to an officers knowledge. Just as the Army Engineer transforms to the Objective Force to meet the challenges of the 21st century security environment, so too must the Army tran sform its education system to train and educate the leaders who will command and control that force. The Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (UPNM) is the first university in Malaysia that provided for the countrys need in modern armed forces educations transformation. The university is fully a military university. There are 11 courses that are offered and these are balance of the fields in management, sciences and engineering. But aside from the academics, the students though are graded through their military leadership and physical fitness. These changes seek to provide the right education in the right medium to the right leader at the right time and place. The RER must have an ability to read a changing situation and react fastest. The adage â€Å"first in, last out †aptly applies to its significance and manifestation of its importance in supportingthe Army in discharging its roles. During my short 17 years of army engineer experience, Ive had the opportunity to serve with several dynamic leaders. These leaders all possessed similar traits such as vision, leadership, decisiveness, technical and tactical expertise, intelligence and compassion. Ive taken bits and peaces from each leader and formed my very own leadership style.A commander must be a motivated achiever with a â€Å"can do† attitude. RER commanders qualities are formed in a progressive and sequential series of carefully planned training, educational, and experiential. RER project management requires a multi-discipline focus to coordinate the overall needs of a project with reliance on others to provide the technical expertise. RER commander must be able to delegate authority and responsibility to others and still retain focus on the linking process between disciplines. RER Commander cannot become overly involved in detailed tasks or take over the discipline they are educated in, but should focus on the project objectives. 1.1.2 DEFINITION OF RER ENGINEERING PROJECT The RER project includes both construction and major repair/maintenance project. RER construction project is defined as all military construction work or any contribution authorized necessary to produce a complete and useable facility or a complete and useable improvement to an existing facility. Generally, construction includes: The erection, installation or assembly of a new facility. The addition, expansion, extension, alteration, relocation, or replacement of an existing facility. Site preparation, excavation, filling, landscaping, land improvements, utility connections and installed equipment. Repair or maintenance project means to restore a real property facility, system or component to such a condition that it may effectively be used for its designated functional purpose. When repairing a facility, the components of the facility may be repaired by replacement and such replacement may be up to current standards or codes. RER project practice may be construction only or a combination of design and construction. A project consists of three components: scope, budget and schedule. When a project first assigned to a commander, it is important that three of these components be clearly defined. Scope represents the work to be accomplished, for example, the quantity and quality of work. Budget refers to costs and schedule refers to the logical sequencing and timing of the work to be performed. The quality of a project must meet the owners satisfaction and is an integral part of project management as illustrated in figure 1. Figure 1 is shown as an equilateral triangle to represent an important principle of RER project management. Any increase in the scope of work requires a corresponding increase in budget and schedule. Conversely, any decrease in scope of work results in a corresponding decrease in budget and schedule. For example, any adjustment in budget and/or schedule requires a corresponding adjustment in scope. It is the duty of an engineer commander to ensure that the project scope, budget, and schedule are linked together. Budgeting is important because it establishes the amount of money the owner will spend to obtain the project and the amount of money that the design and construction organizations will be compensated for performing the work. The construction phase is important because most of the project budget is expended during construction. Also, the operation and maintenance of the completed project is highly dependent on the quality of work that is performed during construction. Quality is an element that is integrated into and between all parts of a project: scope, budget and schedule. 1.2 PROBLEM STATEMENT Today, project management has reached a maturity level in which it is applied in the RER building and construction projects. Commander faces dilemmas that require choices between competing sets of values and priorities. The best commander recognizes and faces them with a commitment to do the right thing the right way. What does the right things mean? Does it mean the morally right things? The ethically right things? The right things for the squadron to be successful? and whos to say what the right things are? Effective team work is a key element in any successful project. Teamwork must be start early in the process, and it must be continuous throughout the live of a projects. Why do communications fail? Focus on personal power, there are therefore no easy answers to the questions from where and when did the powerful religious dimensions first begin to make an impact on interpersonal dynamic of RER spiritual power in the accomplishment of the project. RER linking specific challenges to be faced and overcome through professionalism and confidence to bring a project successful completion. In the concept of duty and service, RER must be fit and perform under mental and physical pressure. How does RER could organize one project in the multifunctional roles with multiple tasks continue to fit in the plan that had been scheduled? In the concept of human nature, how does the RER can survive by pushing them in the panic button in line with low spiritual power? Will the completion of the project help that organization accomplish its goals? 1.3 AIM OF RESEARCH The research will analyze the interpersonal dynamic of RER leaders and its relationship between his leadership and RER management in the construction project, as showing in the figure 2 1.4 RESEARCH OBJECTIVES The research will cover the following objectives: Explore interpersonal dynamic in organization for good management, powerful leadership, and effective project management team. Discuss leadership roles from an Islamic perspectivewhich taking the examples of the past leader feature. Establishes personal power for dominating the work as the key to success. Effectiveness study of project management countermeasure as an important point of reference for improvement projects planned for the future. 1.5 SIGNIFICANCE OF RESEARCH RER moves forward into the 21st century to meet the challenges of a changing strategic and operational landscape. RER commanders qualities are formed in a progressive and sequential series of carefully planned training, educational, and experiential. Commander in such circumstances must be led in ways that inspire, rather than require, trust and confidence to hold high levels of responsibility. When followers have trust and confidence in a dynamic commander, they are transformed into willing, rather than merely compliant, agents. Much of the leadership practiced in todays Army achieves compliance from followers. Unfortunately, the compliance is not enough. The process of influencing followers behaviors accomplished the commanders goal by pushing them in the panic button. Some RER projects end, either as a casualty because of excessive cost and/or schedule overrun, or failure to accomplish their performance expectations. Engineering situations had enforced some engineer leaders bringing strong technical skills to the job site, but few possess the management skills it takes to successful coordinate the many phases of a construction projects. Also some current army engineer officers required technical engineering skills improvement initiative for supporting their expertise to plan and organise each stage of the projects. These lack of managerial and technical expertise is often the underlying reason for project delay, excessive spending, and ultimately dissatisfied. The significance of this paper is to help us be more effective in leadership situations by helping us better understand the complex challenges of commander command and control in RER. 1.6 LITERATURE REVIEW Indeed, there are a few books and articles that gave a brief account on the activities related to the research which provide to be useful for the literature review in the preparation of this study. Some of the literatures reviewed are listed below: a. Achieving Effective Performance for Unit Commanders written by Brig Gen Abdullah bin Babu, Lt Col Allatif Mohd Noh and Lt Col A.Endry Nixon published by Ministry of Defence Malaysia, 2002. This book explained the development of human resource, organization, information of technology, logistic, policies and instruction become the sinews of a more professionally focused and pragmatic Army driven by knowledge. It also provides insights and suggestive tools for commanders to use astutely as a competitive advantage in their pursuance for effective performance. b. Management i n Engineering: Principle and Practice Second Edition written by Gail Freeman-Bell and James Balkwill by Prentice Hall, 1996. This book presents the principle and techniques of managing engineering and construction projects from the conceptual phase, through design and construction and to completion. Much of the information in this book is based on formal and informal discussions with these project managers who are actively involved in the practice of project management. It informations related to the research where it has common elements of effective project management that have been successfully applied in practice. c. Total Construction Project Management written by George J. Ritz by McGraw-Hill Inc, 1994. This book is designed to give a construction manager the essential tools to survive and prosper in a highly competitive environment. Its significance in developing construction management and technology skills where both of it parallel paths to total construction management. It also emphasizes the person who is in responsible charge of the field activities must practice total construction project management to meet their project and personal goals. In the RER, the mental side of constructions management is frequently been used. Thus, this book is extremely beneficial to this research. d. Military Review The Professional Journal of The United State-Leadership, August 1994. This journal is review about World War II almanac. The author discussed about the theory of leadership where provided unique perspectives on leadership in both traditional and nontraditional applications that have much to offer to those who would lead. The authors also present their views on the rule of law and human right where there are a few issues that need to be addressed. e. Manual Procedure of Regiment Engineer Regiment (MP 4.1.1 TD). This manual provided sufficient information for staff and commanders at all levels in the course of their planning with regard to employment and deployment of engineers. There are three parts in this manual which are Organization, Command and Employment of Engineers as a Part One, Conduct of Battle as a Part Two and Engineer Operations as a Part Three. Each part had clarified briefly any matters of engineer needs to fulfilled its roles and functions. 1.7 LIMITATION OF RESEARCH This paper sources limited to the common RER construction projects through my personal thoughts and opinions on the management aspect. This paper is designed primarily, offer just one persons views on how to be a better army engineer and commander. There are a limited numbers of publications by the Services on the subject.As an army engineer officer is under the rules to be safeguard of all information that maintained by the Government of Malaysia as defense strategic and security . It is not to be divulged to a non-security organization unless authorized by the Ministry of Defence. It is also not to be used for other than military purpose and it is strictly not to be released to another country without the consent of the Ministry of Defence. Hence, the appointment for discussions will depend on the time availability of correspondents. 1.8 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY The research methodology is based on the lessons of the past leaders features. As an army engineer experience in working with numbers of construction projects in the RER much of the information in this research is based on formal and informal discussions with these project army engineer officers and commanders, who are actively, involved in the practice of RER construction projects. A common example is used throughout this research to illustrate the project management. Secondary data and information were uses as qualitative methodology with source from Al- Quran and Hadis, books and articles in journals found in the libraries. Besides, the study also utilized the facility offered by the Internet, which is a rich minefield of information recent on views, issues and updates. 1.9 ORGANIZATION OF CHAPTERS The paper is divided into five chapters. Chapter One begins by interpreting interpersonal dynamic. Next, discuss of project leadership that is importance because commander states that leadership is not a property of the individual but a complex relationship among many variables. Finally, defines general principles related to project management and presenting RER major constructions, improvement and maintenance project review role of Engineer Command and Control. The basic principles must be fully understood because many of the problems associated with project management are caused by failure to apply them. Chapter Two seeks to propagate the idea that interpersonal dynamic from an islamic perspective. Defining personal power of commander as the capacity or potential to exert influence and influence tactics as the degree of change in a persons attitudes, values or behaviors. Take the example of the story of Salahudin Al-Ayubis victory in the re-capture of Jerusalem; the powerful religious dimensions of the army engineer should arouse the personal competence and loyalty (jihad fi-sabilillah). Chapter Three begin to discuss the important of personal management skill to be a good planner, delegator and communicator with the progress of the battle of Badr commanded by the Prophet Muhammad SAW. RER leadership must set priorities and develop a system to manage time. Next, this paper is highlight the successful project management can best be described as effective communications between the people who perform the work that is necessary to complete the projects. Finally, stress on the important of construction phase because the quality of the completed project is highly dependent on the workmanship and management of construction. Chapter Four focus on major conditions that must be present for building effective project teams where its becoming increasingly more important. Taken a lesson from the battle of Uhud, Engineer commander have to organize and manage their teams across organizational lines. This paper considerable attention has been given to the Total Quality Management (TQM) concept that emphasizes teamwork at all levels of an organization to improve the quality of the project and achieve maximum customer satisfaction. Chapter Five concludes that RER leaders has a duty to perform, preserve and enhance the unity, strength, tranquility and development of society through interpersonal dynamic and highlights the project management countermeasure as an important point of reference for improvement projects planned for the future. One of the most important points in this chapter is situational engineering which manages the interaction between the leader, the followers and the situations with a high level of lateral interdependence. CHAPTER 2 POWER AND INFLUENCE 2.1 BACKGROUND Power is like a coin. It has two sides. One side is the official authority or legal power that is given to an individual who is occupying an organizational position of RER such as Engineer Commander. On the other side of the power is the influence that an individual has with regard to the organization of RER. The first sides of power stated in this chapter are legitimate power, personal power, expert power and referent power. The second side cannot be delegated. It depends on the knowledge, skills and attitudes of the individual and the competency that there are able to develop and sustain in the management of the project and in their dealings with the higher commander in RER. Most failures in the management of the projects are as follows: Failure to define the specificity of authority and responsibility of the Engineer Commander in the RER project. Negative attitudes on the part of project, functional and Chief of Engineer (CE) and team members who support a sharing of authority and responsibility over the resources to be used to support that projects. Lack of familiarity with the theoretical construction and the context in which that organizational design is applied. Failure of Engineer Commander to promote synergy and unity within and between RER levels and with outside organizational so that resources, results and rewards can be shared. This type of promotion requires true team work, discussion, cooperation of all RER committee, education and the opening and maintenance of many lines of communication. 2.2 SOURCES OF LEADERSHIP Leaders who can reward and punish followers may have a greater capacity to influence followers than those leaders who cannot use rewards or punishments. Legitimate power depends on a persons organizational role. Legitimate power means a leader has authority because he has been assigned a particular role in an organization. For example, in military the colonel can order compliance with uniform standards. However, follower or situational characteristics may diminish a leaders potential to influence followers as when the leader has less his personal power. Expert Power is the power of knowledge. Knowledge has always been of paramount importance as a source of development. In the military profession, it is extremely important to be aware of the continuous changes in military affair. The RER needs to equip itself with relevant knowledge and skills to face these complex challenges. Powerful individuals enhance learning from experiences. One way to counteract the problems stemming from a lack of expertise is to build strong interpersonal ties with subordinates. Referent power refers to the behavior and religion practices together have due to the strength of the relationship between the leader and the subordinates. When subordinates admirer a leader and see him as a role model, he has referent power. The story of Salahudin Al-Ayubis victory in the re-capture of Jerusalem is an important part of history that Muslims must study. However, in studies on the history victories in the crusades, figurism or heroism in the army is emphasized. This is not necessarily the better approach. Such an approach distracts us from the real illnesses present among Muslims, which become the reason for our defeat waiting for the distances a person from the role that he should be playing even while waiting for the appearance of a leader figure to bring about solutions to problems. To quote Salahudin Al-Ayubi as an example: â€Å"Salahuddin Al Ayyubi was born to an aristocratic family in Tikrit (Kurdistan-Iraq) in 1138 CE. His education was simple: the Quran, Hadith, some mathematics, law, literature, genealogy: of men and horses. Initially, he did not seem to have any special interest in military sciences. In 1169 at the age of 31, he was appointed both Commander-in-chief of the Syrian troops and vizier of Egypt. He was the Muslim ruler of Egypt, Syria, Yemen, and Palestine and one of the most famous of Muslim heroes. Salahuddin was 26 when was sent as a commander to aid the Fatimid rulers of Egypt against the Crusaders who were joined by a unit of the Egyptian army. In wars against the Christian crusaders, he achieved final success with the disciplined capture of Jerusalem (Oct. 2, 1187), ending its 88-year occupation by the Franks. The great Christian counterattack of the Third Crusade was the stalemated by Salahuddins remarkable leadership and military brilliance. He had a great love for Islam and he tried hard to root out the Crusaders. For this purpose, he maintained a strong army. To Salahuddin, Jihad started from the inside. He had to watch himself and his aids and soldiers to make sure that they behaved in compliance with Devine commandments in all spheres of life, spiritual, moral and material. Hence, when his advisor suggested to him, why do you not save the money you give in charity to the poor and religious teachers, and spend it in our war efforts? Salahuddin replied: I could not do that because the prayers of poor people and religious teachers were such a source of strength in wars†. UsingSalahuddin Al Ayyubi as a role model of leadership, it is indeed time for the RER leadership to carry out a serious introspection and internal correction of oneself. Leaders must be aware of how good they can perform and how their behavior affects the performance. A leader may need to change his behavior before trying to change the behavior of his subordinates. Salahuddins singleness of purpose induced his subordinates to rearm both physically and spiritually. Salahuddins every act was inspired by edifying works especially on the jihad itself. Salahuddins personal power in religion practice and moralities had won the hearts of his subordinates, so that he could accomplished his goal. Today, the RER leadership uses the approaches of getting work done through fear, or centralizing decision making, or decentralizing decision making, and some even allow the group to establish its own goals and make its own decisions. By using these approaches, do not mean the goal is cannot accompli sh but they may separates harmonizes environments between the leaders and subordinates. Our current generation has so much to learn from Salahuddin. But first let us remind ourselves that history generally tells us about the bravery and leadership of commanders of war and rulers. Islamic History taught in school also tells us of the bravery and the rule of Islamic leaders, from the honourable Prophet Muhammad SAW to the fall of Islam in Ottoman Turkey. This finally created awareness among the people that in fighting for the Islamic cause, they should begin with the local power struggle. In the RER construction project this matter may affect the quality of work performance that will be presented project results as shown in Appendix A. The RER leadership must also prepare to take a new direction to explore and study some of the traits relate physical factor, some abilities, many to personalities and social characteristics to support the roles of activity, intelligence, knowledge, dominance and self-confidence. May be we can begin to learn and practice the first step by taking the example of Salahuddin which through assertive moral rejuvenation to fit a genuine part of own way of life. 2.3 INFLUENCE TACTICS AND POWER Influence tactics are the actual behaviors used by a leader to change the attitudes, opinions, or behaviors of a target person. Commanders who have only legitimate power may be able to use only legitimizing, pushing or pressure tactics to influence his subordinates. Dont threaten or dont push them in the panic button. I know its done by some of our leaders, but I dont go for it. If people are running scared or tension, theyre not going to make the good job or the right decisions. Theyll make the job or decisions to please the commander rather than recommend what has to be done. Commander should attempts to get in a good mood before making a request. People typically use soft tactics when theyre at a disadvantage, when they aspect resistance or when they will personally benefit if the attempt is successful. People typically use rational tactics (logical arguments or factual evidence) when parties are relatively equal in power and when resistance is not anticipated. Some leaders are able to influence others through their relative expertise in particular areas. We may not have state of the art technology or weapons in the region but having the best interpersonal leader who can think critically, analytically and professionally would make a difference in the management of the project. Soldiers who have been in combat or project before are valued for the lessons learned and wisdom they can share with others. Because expert power is a function of the amount of knowledge one possesses relative to the rest of the members of the group, it is possible for followers to have considerably more expert power than leaders in certain situations. For example, new RER officer often possess less knowledge of the jobs and task performed in a particular work unit than the followers do. In this case, the followers can potentially wield considerable influence when decisions are made regarding work procedures, new equipment or

Homosexuality, Nature or Nurture? Essays -- Homo Gay Lesbian

Homosexuality, Nature or Nurture? Homosexuality has become a large issue in our lives today. Gay Rights activists have been making their voices heard; this has attracted the attention of the population making them take notice of their cause. The church has not been able to get away from the powerful political and social pressure of homosexuality. Some churches have accepted homosexuality but many still do not accept homosexuals, saying it is unnatural and not what 'god' intended of man. The church claims that what ever decision has been made, it has been done so on the basis of Christian moral principles. The Old Testament clearly forbids homosexual practices and in Leviticus 20:13 it reads: "If there is a man who lies with a male as those who lie with a woman, both of them have committed a detestable act; they shall surely be put to death." (Pyne, 1992, http://www.probe.org/docs/homosex1.html) To address the issue of whether homosexuality derives from biological determinism (nature) or from the influences experienced from the environment around them (nurture), in 1973 the APA (American psychiatric Association) through much pressure from the Gay Rights Activists, classified homosexuality under the heading of sexual orientation disturbance. Sexual orientation refers to an individual's sexual attraction towards persons of a particular gender. Heterosexuals show this attraction to members of the opposite sex, homosexuals show it to members who are the same sex. According to Gross, McIlveen, Coolican, Clamp and Russell, 2000, three to four percent of men are exclusively homosexual compared to around one percent of women. Acc... ...new introduction: Hodder & Stoughton Pyne, 1992, http://www.probe.org/docs/homosex1.html, 04/2002 Saunders and Pickering, 1997, http://www.cmf,org,uk/pubs/nucleus/nucoct97/cause.htm : 04/2002 Bibliography Bailey, 1991, http://www-2.cs.cmu.edu/afs/cs.cmu.edu/user/scotts/bulgarians/nature-nurture/bailey-pil.html :04/2002 Blum, 1997, http://www.worldpolicy.org/americas/sexorient/twins.html : 04/2002 Bourne, Russo, 1998,Psychology: behaviour in context: Norton. Cameron, http://www.familyresearchinst.org/FRI_EduPamphlet5.html :04/2002 McIlveen, Coolican, Clamp and Russell, 2000, Psychology, a new introduction: Hodder & Stoughton Pyne, 1992, http://www.probe.org/docs/homosex1.html, 04/2002 Saunders and Pickering, 1997, http://www.cmf,org,uk/pubs/nucleus/nucoct97/cause.htm : 04/2002

Human Relations Movement Essay

In the first twenty-five years of 20th century owners and managers assumed that people came to work primarily because of economic needs which led to the development of classical management supported by Taylor and then to the scientific management of Fayol. However, by the 1930s, it has become a certainty, on the basis of research, that people have other needs primarily related not to financial fulfillment but to personal involvement. Since then, there were a lot of theorists that tried to explain what was that triggered and sustained human behaviour. As a result, the research of these â€Å"behavioural scientists† (kreitner 1999) became to what today is called the human relations movement. This study will be demonstrating the need for human relations movement and also if it has completely replaced classical and scientific management. (131) Before the human relations movement, companies were looking for a way to grow their profit by increasing the productivity and efficiency of the workers. The first and most important model user of the scientific method was F.W.Taylor. As an experienced worker, Taylor focused on the design of the manual tasks (David Buchanan, 1997) by rationalizing and standardizing production techniques. Taylor, in the words of Aitken, ‘was the first to synthesize and systemize the best that was known about the management of men’. (80) This researcher’s primary interest was the individual worker that was motivated by financial incentives. Although the planning, organizing and leading the worker’s tasks increased productivity and profit, when it came to methodology of people Taylor showed no concern. It is true that financial incentives kept workers motivated for a while but the closely controlled conditions of work which promoted a militaristic and mechanistic organization (Buchanan) led to a low employee morale. (70) Apart from Taylor, H. Fayol also analyzed the complexity of organizations . This theorist viewed organizations as akin to living organisms, possessing a life of their own and requiring the maintenance of harmony in order to function satisfactorily. As a result, he developed 14 principles designed to facilitate discipline and high productivity in a company. One of Fayol ’s principles was ‘Division of work’ which directed workers in completing certain tasks; other one was ‘Unity of direction’ which meant that all people in the organization had common goals such as making profit. Indeed, this code of principles is indispensable in organizations and seem to be of the utmost importance in the achievement of an effective organization. (113) However, the major disadvantage of both Fayol and Taylor’s ideas was the lack of concern with the interaction between people. Both theorists aimed to analyze and control the activities of people but did not include the employee in the decision-making processes of the organization. Also, these methods neglected the importance of other rewards apart from financial incentives such as job satisfaction, recognition between team-workers and personal achievement. As a result, the human relations movement needed to appear. (77) The notions of human relations movement and the social person, which gathered momentum through the 1950s, took shape in relation to the work of Elton Mayo. The theorist conducted the Hawthorne experiments which concerned the effects of scientific management on the worker in terms of absenteeism and fatigue (Cole). Therefore, Mayo did not exclude scientific management but wanted to help in improving the method. The experiment involved observing a group of six women in their workplace. Although there was some obvious criticism about the outcome of the research carried in five stages, the Hawthorne studies provided some important conclusions that contributed to a better understanding of human behaviour in organizations. (108) Probably the most important conclusion of the Hawthorne studies was that social relationships are at least as important as financial incentives and working conditions. Moreover, Mayo came to the conclusion that the person’s individual needs, supportive supervisors and team work had a powerful impact on job performance. Therefore, scientific management was not denied as an efficient method for the company but was questioned when it came to the social effects. (70) The Hawthorne studies were not considered important only for the conclusions provided but also for opening a path for other theorists who also focused on this approach. Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, McGregor’s theory X and Y and Herzberg’s motivation-hygiene theory brought to managers’ attention the important roles played by individuals in determining the success or failure of an organization. Moreover, Mary Parker Follett who was not only a woman management consultant (kreitner) but also a writer saw employees as complex combinations of attitudes, beliefs and needs. (85) The human relations movement began to expand in time and organizations started to understand the vital importance of groups and social relationships at work and managers began to attend to employees emotional needs. Therefore, the working conditions were improved and workers received recognition as a distinct human being. Social researchers and managers also created new techniques intended to improve employees motivation: job enrichment, employee of the month awards, self-managing teams, incentives and corporate entertainment programmes. (73) In the new millennium, scientific management is still alive and plays an important role by offering companies a way of meeting their technical, economic and social objectives.(Buchanan) Assembly line si today examples

As/Ad Model

Macroeconomics – Chapter 10: The Aggregate Demand/Aggregate Supply Model * Keynesian Economics – Economists who focused on the short run * John Maynard Keynes – their leading advocate the originator of macroeconomics as a separate discipline from micro * Classical Economists – economists who focused on long-run issues such as growth * Aggregate Demand Management – government’s attempt to control the aggregate level of spending in the economy * Equilibrium Income – the level of income toward which the economy gravitates in the short run because of the cumulative cycles of declining or increasing production * Potential Income – the level of income that the economy is technically capable of producing without generating accelerating inflation * Paradox of Thrift – and increase in savings can lead to a decrease in expenditures, decreasing output and causing a recession * Multiplier Model – the model that was meant to ca pture Keynesian economics * This model emphasized aggregate output fluctuations * Explored why those output fluctuations generally would not lead to wild fluctuations in output – depressions * Instead lead to smaller fluctuations – recessions * The AS/AD Model – aggregate supply/aggregate demand Is a pedagogical model – designed to give a framework to organize thinking about macro economy * Does not focus on problems that occur because of interactions between individuals * Consists of 3 curves * Short-run aggregate supply (SAS) curve * Aggregate demand (AD) curve * Long-run aggregate supply (LAS) curve – highest sustainable level of output * The price level of all goods is on the vertical axis and the aggregate output is on the horizontal axis * It is a historical model – starts at one point in time and says what will likely happen when changes affect the economy * Aggregate expenditures (demand) – the sum of consumption, investment, government spending, and net exports – p. 234 * Discuss the historical development of macroeconomics * The depression began in the 1930s and lasted 10 years * During he depression output fell by 30% and unemployment rose to 25% * This was the beginning of macro’s focus on the demand side of economics * Keynes started asking what short run forces were causing the Depression and what society could do to counteract them * This created the framework that focuses on short-run issues such as business cycles and how to stabilize output fluctuations * By the 1950s, Keynesian economics had been accepted by most economists and taught almost everywhere in the US * In the 1970s inflation became a serious issue which meant that the multiplier model was not very helpful * It assumed that the price level is fixed * The standard model taught in macro then shifted to the Aggregate Supply/Aggregate Demand (AS/AD) model * Explain the shape to the aggregate demand curve and what factors s hift the curve * Aggregate demand (AD) curve – a curve that shows how a change in price level will change aggregate expenditures on all goods and services * It is downward-sloping The reasons for the downward slope are due to the: * Interest rate effect – the effect that a lower price level has on investment expenditures through the effect that a change in the price level has on interest rates – p. 234 * International effect – as the price level falls (assuming the exchange rate does not change), net exports will rise – p. 234 * Money wealth effect (real balance effect) – a fall in the price level will make the holders of money richer, so they buy more – p. 234 * The multiplier effect strengthens each of these effects * Multiplier effect – the amplification of initial changes in expenditures – p. 235 * Shifts in the AD curve – means that at every price level, total expenditures have changed – p. 236 * Shift factors of aggregate demand: Foreign Income – recessions and expansions occurring in other countries cause demand for US goods decreases or increases respectively * Exchange Rate Fluctuations – when a country’s currency loses value, relative to foreign currencies, demand for foreign goods decreases and demand for domestic goods increases; exports also increase * Distribution of income – * Expectations – expectations of future output and future prices * Government Policies – spending policy, tax policy, etc – p. 238 * When consumption expenditures increase, the AD curve shifts to the right, when consumption expenditures decrease, the AD curve shifts to the left * Explain the shape of the short-run aggregate supply curve and what factors shift the curve – p. 39 * Short-run Aggregate Supply (SAS) curve – a curve that specifies how a shift in the aggregate demand curve affects the price level and real output in the short ru n, other things constant * The curve is upward-sloping which means that other things constant, an increase in output is accompanied by an rise in price level * When aggregate demand increases, the price level rises * Two reasons that the SAS curve slopes upward, other things constant: * Upward-sloping curves in auction markets * Firms’ tendency to increase their markup when demand increases * The shape of the SAS curve reflects two different types of markets * The auction market – markets represented by the supply/demand model * Posted-price markets – prices are set by the producers and change infrequently * Often called Quantity-adjusting Markets – markets in which firms respond to changes in demand primarily by changing production instead of changing their prices * Shifts in the SAS curve: – p. 239 Changes in input prices, such as wages or supply costs * If input prices rise, the SAS curve shifts up, if input prices fall, the SAS curve shifts dow n * Change in the productivity factors of production * An increase in productivity shifts the curve down * A reduction of input costs per unit of output shifts the curve down * Changes in import prices of final goods * Import prices are a shift factor because they are a component of an economy’s price level * When import prices rise the SAS curve shifts up * Changes in excise and sales tax * Higher sales tax shifts the curve up * How much will the curve shift: The percentage change in wages and other factor prices minus changes in productivity * If productivity rises by 3% and wages rise by 7%, we can expect that the price level will rise by 4% for a given level of output * Explain the shape of the long-run aggregate supply (LAS)curve – p. 241 * Long-run aggregate supply (LAS)curve – a curve that shows the long run relationship between output and the price level * The position of the LAS curve is determined by potential output * Just where to position the curve is somewhat in debate * The range is bounded by a high level of output and a low level of output and the LAS curve can be thought of as being the mid-point of that range * The shape of the LAS curve * The LAS curve is vertical At potential output all resources are being fully utilized * A rise in the price level mean that the price of goods and factors of production, including wages, will rise * Show the effects of shifts of the aggregate demand and aggregate supply curves on the price level and output in both the short run and long run – p. 243 * Short run equilibrium is where the SAS curve and the AD curve intersect * If the AD curve shifts to the right * Price level will rise * Output will increase * If the SAS curve shifts up * Price level will rise * Output will decrease * Long run equilibrium is where the LAS and AD curves intersect * AD curve can only determine price level, it has no effect on output * If the AD increases, price levels rise Explain how dynamic feedback effects can destabilize the economy – p. 246 * * Discuss the limitations of the macro policy model – p. 250 * Fiscal policy – changing government spending and tax policy is a slow process * Changes cannot be completed in a timely fashion * Potential output cannot be measured accurately * Many other interrelationships that the model does not take into account * Rate of unemployment fluctuates and is difficult to predict * Falling asset prices and falling price level on expectations of aggregate demand * When there are pressures for price levels to fall there are also pressures for asset prices to fall

Magnolia Essays - Culture Of The Southern United States, Magnolia

Magnolia Essays - Culture Of The Southern United States, Magnolia Magnolia In regards to the Magnolia Therapeutic Solutions Case Study and how my decision compared to the board members decision were closely the same. There were a few differentials that I feel that the full grant should have been issued to an extent but final decision of not being conducted. Mary showed substantial size of how much help was going to be needed during the September 11th attacks on America and with the experience of how Magnolia was conducted previously to help individuals with Post Traumatic Syndrome Disorder. When the board made their decision to approve the budget for Magnolia it was done in haste; the grant should not have been submitted to the board within their budget so the board members could have seen what the true submissions would have been. With the past acknowledgment of how Magnolia supported individuals before September 11th and the success it brought it was only natural to follow through with what the board members did. I think we base our decisions off of facts, recognition and references from what is brought to our attention. Being able to go off those facts will be able to make our minds up how we want our decisions to go. Mary had shown a challenged yet great organizational infrastructure when conducting this organization. The employees of Magnolia had grown in numbers which meant that their grant was going to exceed what asked for the previous years; going from six employees to thirty-four is a high increase of funds to be shelling out. I feel I would of asked Mary to produce the records that correlated with the budget submitted; Mary did nothing more than put her budget together by using the grants and fundraising from the previous grant. Mary made her budget with a grant she was not yet approved; not even taking into consideration if the grant was reinstated or not.

Full Sail University Online MBA Program no GMAT Essay Example

Full Sail University Online MBA Program no GMAT Essay Example Full Sail University Online MBA Program no GMAT Essay Full Sail University Online MBA Program no GMAT Essay Full Sail University  Online MBA Program no GMAT located in beautiful Winter Park Florida, Full Sail College is an educational leader for students pursuing careers in the exciting entertainment industry. Established in the late 19oos, the school’s online program provides our students with an innovative and accelerated yet unique of education specifically geared towards career opportunities in all facets of the  entertainment  industry. Online degrees as with the majority of online degree programs are offered at the bachelor’s and master’s level, each one is designed specifically to provide you the students with special knowledge and real world experiences that will help you realize your career goals. Our school’s unique approach to education  combines both of these elements of creativity, art, and technical  strength combined  with a very solid academic foundation. Full sail has a very unique approach to curriculum emphasizes a very intensive, real world education system, using the latest industry  technology,  equipment and production processes. Our Students develop their skills in real world class recording studios and online programs along with spacious film sound stages and a very professional performing arts hall, all housed in a 1o0+ studio, 185+acre complex. Click the Banner below for the Official:   : Full Sail University Online MBA Program no GMAT

The Platt Amendment and U.S.-Cuba Relations

The Platt Amendment and U.S.-Cuba Relations The Platt Amendment set the conditions to end the United States military occupation of Cuba and was passed at the end of the Spanish-American War of 1898, which was fought over which country should oversee the governing of the island. The amendment was intended to create a path to Cuban independence while still allowing the U.S. to have an influence in its domestic and international politics. It was in effect from February 1901 until May 1934.   Historical Background Prior to the Spanish-American War, Spain had control over Cuba and was profiting greatly from its natural resources. There are two major theories as to why the U.S. entered war: promoting democracy abroad and gaining control of the island’s resources. First, the War of 1898 was popular with Americans because the government promoted it as a liberation war. Cubans and the well-known liberation force Cuba Libre began revolting against Spanish rule much earlier, in the 1880s. Additionally, the U.S. was already involved in conflicts with Spain throughout the Pacific in the Philippines, Guam, and Puerto Rico, citing the European nation as an imperialist and undemocratic power. Therefore, some historians and politicians theorize that the war intended to promote democracy and extend the reach of the Free World, and the subsequent Platt Amendment was intended to provide a pathway to Cuban sovereignty. However, keeping Cuba in the U.S. sphere of influence had great economic and political benefits. In the 1980s, the U.S. was suffering one of the greatest economic depressions in its history. The island had tons of cheap tropical agricultural products that Europeans and Americans were willing to pay high prices for. Further, Cuba is only 100 miles from the southernmost tip of Florida, so keeping a friendly regime protected the nation’s national security. Using this perspective, other historians believe that the war, and by extension the Platt Amendment, was always about increasing American influence, not Cuban liberation. At the end of the war, Cuba wanted independence and self-government, whereas the United States wanted Cuba to be a protectorate, a region with a mix of local autonomy and foreign oversight. The initial compromise came in the form of the Teller Amendment. This stated that no country can permanently hold Cuba and a free and independent government will take over. This amendment was not popular in the U.S. because it seemingly barred the nation’s annexation of the island. Though President William McKinley signed the amendment, the administration still sought annexation. The Platt Amendment, signed in February 1901, followed the Teller Amendment to give the United States more oversight of Cuba. What the Platt Amendment Says The Platt Amendment’s primary stipulations were that Cuba became unable to enter into treaties with any foreign nation other than the U.S., the U.S. has a right to intervene if it is believed to be in the island’s best interest, and all conditions of the amendment must be accepted in order to end military occupation. While this was not the annexation of Cuba and there was a local government in place, the United States had much control over the island’s international relationships and domestic production of agricultural goods. As the United States continued to expand its influence throughout Latin American and the Caribbean, Latin Americans began to refer to this style of government oversight as â€Å"plattismo.† Long-Term Impact of the Platt Amendment The Platt Amendment and military occupation of Cuba is one of the leading causes of later conflict between the U.S. and Cuba. Opposition movements continued to expand across the island, and McKinley’s successor, Theodore Roosevelt, put a U.S.-friendly dictator named Fulgencio Batista in charge in hopes of countering the revolutionaries. Later, President William Howard Taft went as far as to say that independence would be completely out of the question if the Cubans continued to rebel. This only increased the anti-U.S. sentiment and propelled Fidel Castro to the Cuban Presidency with a communist-friendly regime after the Cuban Revolution.   Essentially, the legacy of the Platt Amendment is not one of American liberation, as the McKinley administration had hoped. Instead, it stressed and eventually severed the relationship between the U.S. and Cuba that has not normalized since. Sources Pà ©rez Louis A. The War of 1898: the United States and Cuba in History and Historiography. University of North Carolina, 1998.Boot, Max. The Savage Wars of Peace: Small Wars and the Rise of American Power. Basic Books, 2014.

International Finacial Analysis Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

International Finacial Analysis - Case Study Example The accounting and financial reporting standards in the United Kingdom are the responsibility of Financial Reporting Council (FRC). It is an independent professional entity consisting of three auxiliaries viz. the Accounting Standards Board (ASB), the Urgent Issues Task Force (UITF), and the Financial Reporting Review Panel (FRRP). In the year 2000, the European Commission advised all the European Union listed companies to prepare their financial statements in full compliance with the IFRS for the financial years starting on or after January 2005, so as to enhance the comparability and transparency of financial statements (European Commission, 2000). Ever since then, all the companies in UK are required to prepare the financial statements under the standards issued by International Accounting Standards Board. In the United States, the accounting standards are issued mainly by the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB). These standards are known as Generally Accepted Accounting Principles on the basis of which, companies in United States are required to prepare the financial statements (Nobes et al., 1997). ... These rules are produced both by the SEC itself and through SEC oversight of private standards-setting bodies such as the Financial Accounting Standards Board and the Emerging Issues Task Force". There happens to be considerable divergence between the US GAAP and International Accounting Standards, however FASB and IASB are collaborating to minimise the discrepancies (Malthus, 2004). The FASB has been continuously working for the improvements in the accounting standards prevalent in the United States. This importance to disclosure and transparency of information has helped on the way of harmonising the US GAAP with the IFRS. In the year 2002, it provided its support to IASB and both the boards signed an agreement to act united in the pursuit of harmonisation of accounting standards and thus the FASB has taken a leadership role second to IASB in the internationalisation of financial reporting standards (Halliday, 2003). Classification Of Accounting Systems Both these countries i.e., the United Kingdom and the United States belong to the Anglo-American model as proposed by Nobes and Parker (1998; 2000) (Wolk et al., 2001). The standards issued by International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) also come into the category of Anglo-American model. The six important factors of international differences with respect to accounting practices as proposed by Nobes and Parker (1998; 2000), both the countries have legal system based on common law, UK and US have strong equity system with greater shareholder influence, greater significance of stock exchange, both the countries have staunch power of accounting profession (Wolk et al., 2001) and both the countries demand

The impact of the internet an markting development a case study of Dissertation

The impact of the internet an markting development a case study of apple Inc. computers - Dissertation Example high end electronic gadgets like mobile phones with innumerable features, computers, laptops, tabs and many more items have drastically changed every aspect of human life (Hou & Rego, 2002, p. 1). Everywhere technology has taken a leap. From irrigation to the agricultural revolution, from scientific upheaval to the invention of nuclear power, technology has made its presence felt. The list is endless. In this era of globalization with the effect of technology, marketing has also evolved thoroughly in every sector. Earlier marketing used to be a part of business strategy where the main intention was â€Å"telling and selling† the product by force or by will through different mediums like advertisement, push selling, door to door selling etc. to achieve business target first and then to meet the customers’ need (Kotler, 2008). In short it would be defined as â€Å"meeting needs profitably†. (Kotlar 2007). But with time the strategy of marketing has changed and has taken a different form altogether. Nowadays the foremost aim of marketing is to satisfy customers’ needs by providing them with better services without comprising on the benefits of the company. Most of the companies with the help of technology and information started using marketing as an effective tool to build and maintain customer relationships in order to capture value from customers in return (Kotler, 2008). In topical time, technology is a vital influence and underlines the choice of implementation strategies of international marketing mix and furthermore â€Å"enables the more effective control of a firm’s diverse international activities.† (Bach, 2007, p. 3). From the above mentioned quotation it is understood that marketing has taken a new dimension with the emergence of the Internet. In this age of Information Technology (IT) most of the companies are exploring their business to another level by diversifying their resources and expanding their busines s on the global platform. With the help of the Internet, companies are utilizing this opportunity to go to every extent to increase their sales, promote their products and services. In simple words it can be explained that Internet marketing helps to market the business online. The increase in the number of online businessmen over a period of time made Internet marketing even more popular and important these days. With the emergence of the Internet, the traditional marketing idea has changed. The broad networking model helped to change the organizational function related to the marketing campaign, altering products or change in the service based on feedback from the customer, shareholders and others related to the companies. Today E-commerce has become important for every company starting from small ventures to MNCs, public or private sectors and common public in general, even to those who are not accessible to the Internet also by effective word of mouth or other medium like radio television etc (Costa, 2001; Keinan, 2000). The online medium provides a faster rate of innovation than the conventional channel (Lee, 2001, p. 12). Thus today's Internet marketing has transformed to a higher level with a lightning speed with respect to website design and usability advances, e-commerce facility, optimization of search engines, pay per click marketing strategy, web analytics initiative via social media, from the booking of bus-train-flight ticket to search for a holiday destination, from online education to online