Globalization in Canadian focus

Globalization is a common phenomenon in the 21^st century enterprise world. It brings with it both advantages and challenges to local industries. Globalization has created more opportunities while posing pressures to a number of firms that have not fully adopted innovative modes of conducting business (James 211). Companies have reacted differently to globalization, and being driven by a sole aim of making profits have aligned themselves to sound innovation to improve their competitive standing. The research paper is looking to explain the cultural, economic and technological advantages of globalization to Canada.

With the removal of trade tariffs and other protectionism measures, globalization has brought growth avenues and challenges for the local companies with the urgent need to embrace innovation to survive and thrive in the industry. Globalization is a term used to imply the increased nature of economic openness to increase relationships and businesses between countries (Roger and Berdahl 129). Most economic experts have often criticized protectionist measures applied by a number of countries to regulate the level of economic activities in their country. Due to sound reviews and international pressures, most economies have softened their previous stand to embrace globalization. Despite facing many challenges, globalization benefits have often been exaggerated with the minimalism of its disadvantages. In the contemporary society, little has been paid to the effects of globalizations in the domestic industries. However, its impacts to productive firms have captured a considerable attention from both policy makers and governments. Policy makers presume innovation to be a core factor of globalization that affects productivity of firms. To thrive in both local and international markets, companies need to adopt sound innovations that improve both the quality and quantity of their product. To achieve this, a firm needs to harness and use news ideas and methods in its operations. Innovation influence is widespread in economies and business industry alike. These innovations range from steel cars to creating a locomotive. In both the traditional and electronic businesses, innovation is considered a growth catalyst. This implies that companies that have adopted new technologies have an upper hand when it comes to competition in the industry (Roger and Berdahl 178).

According to economists, competition between firms, production efficiency and technology are important aspects that enhance economic growth of a nation (Peter 54). In accordance to this view, globalization advocates for industry competition and individual firm innovation to thrive an industry. Adoption of new technologies has often been associated with large firms. There is a common believe that large firms are important forces of progress that dictate the technology to be adopted in an industry. Competition between firms discourages monopolistic tendencies and foster innovation. Furthermore, scholars argue that firms’ innovation is guided by the level of its guiding technology. To be precise, industry competition agitates for new ideas for companies enjoying market efficiency while promoting a status quo for the inefficient ones. With the leniency of protectionist policies, traditional industries are forced to accept and apply new ideas when there is a new entrant i.e. foreign to help it retain its market position. However, inefficient firms are often locked out of competition as adoption of new technologies may end up eating up their profits. From the discussion, it is apparent that globalization has played an integral role in Canada in fostering the adoption of new technologies that benefit firms and the entire economy in both the short and long run.

Canada like other western economies is still recovering from the financial crisis shocks. Whereas the Asian tigers are enjoying a robust growth with increased levels of employment, Canada is still complaining of high unemployment and inflation rate. The unemployment and inflation issues have taken Canada to the drawing board as far as their international competitiveness and influence in the local economy is concerned. According to Canada policy analysts, globalization is largely to blame for the certain diminishing levels of its influence in the international economics (James 107). By embracing globalization and its opportunities, companies relocated out of their traditional countries. This move was necessitated by the reduced cost of doing business in these countries. This beats logic as the sole aim of business in to increase its revenues through the reduction of costs and improved quality.

Information technology and internet growth are the backbone of globalization. Most companies are able to operate at remote regions while maintaining lower communication and institutional costs. In addition, acceptance of English speaking countries in Asia to open up their economies to international companies has accelerated globalization (James 179). In relation to India, companies relocating there are able to harness cheap labor. While there is huge debate on the implications of globalization on the innovative activities of firms, there is an agreement that sound technology is the primary remedy of increasing jobs and improving the welfare of individuals. Innovation is guided by the production of quantity and quality goods. Therefore, its adoption could improve the citizens’ living standards from increasing products of choice to improved products and new ones. In addition, innovation is responsible for the creation of well-paying jobs that improve both firm and employees welfare in the long run. Moreover, consumers are also in the benefit trail. They realize this from improved product value and the availability of increased products of choice (Wallace and Vosko 184).

Considering the imminent need for innovation in today contemporary business world, many countries are concerned about the increased level of technology and production efficiency of competing countries. Initial industries concern is the loss of business to emerging economies who are fully exploiting innovation in their endeavors. The rate of adoption and the potential area of influence are some of the aspects considered during the design of an innovative system (Stephen and Wood 12). Innovation based on the aforementioned and rapid integrators to new technologies aid boost traditional efforts. In addition, globalization has changed the innovative activities of firms, both small and large in a huge way. Globalization has done a lot in enhancing specialization. In addition, it has enabled companies to enhance its productivity through the division of labor. By fostering division of labor, globalization has enabled individuals to be creative in their own field. This has relatively influenced the manner of operation of firms as any activity is guided by intensive research.

In the recent past, countries have found out that the only way to survive in the ever-changing business world is to be innovative. Each one of them is positioning itself to outdo fellow competitors. Most policy makers and company think tanks are in full support of this initiative of setting pace in technology. International markets are often considered open to innovative individuals. This implies only companies that are guided by consumer needs will thrive. To foster innovation, governments have lobbied private sector stakeholders as well as universities. The 20^th century acted as a transitional stage of some economies and companies (Stephen and Wood 36). The companies that adopted new technologies were rated well in terms of performance and time savings. However, despite failure to be reflected in statistical books, innovative firms have been able to increase its revenues base as well as its market. This will be looked in the preceding paragraphs where we will be looking at how Canada manufacturing industry embraced innovation in its quest for increased market presence.

Canada has been reluctant to embrace globalization fully. Many conspiracy theories have been advanced to scare away the public and business community. There worries been aggravated by it been considered a shadow to the United States of America in terms of resources and global influence. Opponents of globalizations argue that liberalized borders could dilute Canadian culture. However, proponents see globalization as an opportunity to repair and cement Canada relations with the south. Although a number of policy makers critique the size of the Canadian market, the business world sees protectionist measures as barriers and total nuisance to business. The FTA (Free trade agreement) and NAFTA together with other agreements that seek to open up the borders between Canada, the United States and the rest of the world are paramount in facilitating trade while enhancing domestic growth (Stephen and Wood 65). Canada industries are lacking behind in terms of innovation compared to its neighbor, the United States of America. In accordance to Canada competition muscle, experts see its country being a dumping zone for other country products and culture.

To limit the effects of Americanization, experts are calling for citizen protection through the revamping of social programs. There is an assertion that its association with America’s agenda is diluting Canadian culture. However, according to cultural experts, integration and exchange of culture is imminent in the 21^st century. In comparison to united states working culture, Canada workers enjoying the services of trade unions are half that of their immediate trade partner. However, Canadian trade unions are more powerful compared to the United States based firms. This is because they defend service sector and high tech firms in the industry.

Increasing local and international demand for Canadian products call for both short term and long term measures. Manufacturers need to inject much of their capital in infrastructure. They also need to engage in the development of production equipments that matches the increasing demand. In addition, new investments need to be in line with the expanding local economy. Moreover, due to economic predictions, the manufacturing industry needs to be preparing for international liberalization. To attract and retain consumers, manufactures need to go a notch higher in their strategies. With the sound production systems being operational, manufacturers’ introduction of commodity warranties will help the country compete on an equal footing with other states. This move will be a cracker to both the local and international market demonstrating the maturity of Canadian industry. With the level of confidence in the industry, banks will willing to offer financing services to new investors. The innovations and subsequent measures employed by the manufacturers and banks will attracted the world to invest in Canadian economy. Canadian companies need to harness globalized opportunity and established plants in some other countries that provided ready market for its goods and had reduced production costs (Rodney and Klassen 121).

Adoption of new technologies in the Canadian industries is to be credited for it rapid expansion and subsequently influencing the world. Traditionally, the united states of America were the largest customers of Canadian products. However, with continued innovation and improvements, the market demand for their products in other parts of the world has increased tremendously. The ever-improving technology aided Canada in its quest for new markets (Rodney and Klassen 143).

In their quest to conquer, the world, Canadian industry has experienced a number of pressures. However, the level of their response has kept them competitive while allowing them thrives in a populated market. Although globalization has opened up economies, it does not postulate a universal rule of engagement. Different states are guided by different rules and regulations. The satisfaction of all the regulations is a hurdle for most companies, those of Canada included. Most of these regulations often change with time and no company is able to conform to them fully at a go. These new social requirements range from lead pollution traffic safety measures. To address some of these social requirement issues, manufactures have designed industrial products that are environmental friendly to limit pollution and enhance user safety (Peter 117).

Despite the challenges facing Canadian manufacturing industry, its international presence i.e. to the United States of America and Europe has increased over the years. The interest of industrial manufactured products by the aforementioned nations is due to their performance and efficiency. Canada is also experiencing an increased demand of its human resource personnel from all over the world. This growing demand has led to the adoption of innovative strategies to establish plants in those countries. In addition, Canadian companies have enjoined in mergers and joint ventures to increase its presence in the global arena (Wallace and Vosko 357).

In conclusion, globalization of traditional industries is imminent, and the level of innovation in their primary activities is growing rapidly. With the need to increase international presence, firms need to reduce their production costs and employ sound and innovative activities that will keep them and edge in the ever-competitive environment. To survive rapid competition, firms need to merge or engage in joint ventures with other foreign companies. That way, a company is able to avoid several bottlenecks. Joint venture checks the operation costs while improving company efficiency levels. In addition, the interaction of personnel helps in the exchange of ideas and technical knowhow. The level of response of industries to social requirements of a state is also vital to its survival. The increased receipts of many economies are resulting from globalization. In addition, globalization has also provided an avenue of exchanging knowledge between states. This has led to political changes in a number of connected countries. From the discussion, it is paramount that for businesses and economies to increase their incomes, it has to embrace globalization fully. From Canada industries, it is imminent that countries that have embraced globalization by adopting sound business laws and legislations have thrived both locally and internationally. Protectionist measures are retrogressive and only aid to benefit monopolies at the expense of the public.

Works Cited

James, Bickerton. Canadian politics. Toronto, Canada: University of Toronto Press, 2009.

Wallace, Clement, and Leah Vosko. Changing Canada: political economy as transformation. New York, NY: McGill-Queen's Press - MQUP, 2003

Peter, Urmetzer. Globalization unplugged:sovereignty and the Canadian state in the twenty-first century. Toronto, Canada: University of Toronto Press, 2005.

Rodney, Haddow, and Thomas Klassen. Partisanship, globalization, and Canadian labour market policy: four provinces in comparative perspective. Toronto, Canada: University of Toronto Press, 2006.

Stephen, Clarkson, and Stepan Wood. A Perilous Imbalance: The Globalization of Canadian Law and Governance. Vancouver, Colombia: UBC Press, 2009.

Roger, Gibbins, and Loleen, Berdahl. Western visions, western futures: perspectives on the West in Canada. Toronto, Canada: University of Toronto Press, 2003.

International Relations

1. Individual Level Analysis on the Iraq war that started in 2003

For any action undertaken, there has to be a cause. In addition, to ascertain the real cause, it is paramount to analyze the reasons behind the action. In accordance to individual level analysis, it is essential to find in-depth facts about George bush for his decision to invade Iraq. Bush character, normally associated to his strong religious beliefs is believed to have influenced his decisions to invade Iraq. In addition, his ability view matters as they appear triggered the invasion.

2. United States as the only Super Power in the world today and its affects

The position has enabled the USA agitate for internationally accepted policies both in the economic, political and social arena. This has advantaged both the developing and developing countries and has therefore enhanced their trust in the US. However, being a super power has nurtured enmity east. This is solely because of the government continued fight of terrorism. Some Islamic nations feel the USA is over using its superpower abilities to intimidate them (Wilkinson 188).

3. Positive and negative effects of Nationalism in the United States

Positive effects of nationalism in the USA include the sense of national pride, where citizens cherish the state of their country. Cohesive state is another positive aspect, where each individual feel accommodated. Some negative effects are racism; this implies lack of tolerance by citizens. In addition, the exploitation of citizens is another negative aspect (Wilkinson 117).

4. Possibility of a two state solution in the current Israel Palestinian conflict

A two state solution is possible to solve the Middle East crisis. This is because the solution will leave the Jewish with their identity as a Jewish state while guaranteeing Palestine of their long fought independence.

5. The greatest benefit and the biggest drawback to cultural globalization

Knowledge transfers and information exchange are two major benefits of cultural globalization. On the other hand, dilution of unique cultures and subsequent elimination is a drawback to this globalization.

6. NGO’s and Global issues

To a large extend NGO’s have been effective in defending the plight of women globally. These organizations have advocated for the respect of women rights in not only social but also Political and economic affairs (Wilkinson 93). Apart from defending human rights, NGOs are better placed to address the issues of global warming. NGOs initiatives in both the developed and developing countries have seen the reduction in HIV/AIDs infections.

Works cited

Wilkinson, Paul. International Relations. New York, NY: Sterling Publishing Company, 2010.

Everyone should be Free to Wear Leather and Fur

Clothing made out of fur and leather can last longer than the life of the animal that produced them. Therefore, the use of fur and leather is one way of extending the productivity of animal products beyond the consumption of meat, milk and labor. It is important to view fur and leather clothing as animal products just like meat. Everyone should be free to wear fur and leather. Instead of arguing against the use of fur, concerned voices should be advocating for proper ways of animal management.

Why Everyone Should be Free to Wear Leather and Fur

According to Wenz (1989), carnivorous animals predate on other animals for their food. That is the natural way of their food chain. Humans are omnivorous and can eat both animal products and plant products. In addition, humans are civilized and have other needs such as clothing and shelter. The most natural way of obtaining resources to fulfill their needs is by mimicking the food chain. Thus, it is natural for humans to kill animals for fur, just as it is natural for them to kill for meat.

Humans rely on nature’s imagery to develop a symbolic life in line with their civilization. An examination of the human nature and civilization reveals several contrasts. The contrasts structure how humans regard the world such as purity and danger, the raw and the cooked sacred and profane. As long as humans are using their imagination based on the symbolic life of nature, they are bound to encounter many conflicts. The conflicts we revolve around the two principles of living an imaginative and meaningful life and on the other hand, doing no harm to animals (Wolfe, 1993).

Now basing on the above realization, it is okay for animal rights activist and theorists to state that there are patterns present in human living that are cruel to animals. Their argument, that people’s way of exploiting animal species to make their lives rich and meaningful is wrong, would suffice in this case. However, their argument fails short of the fact that in order for people to make the world rich and prosperous, they have to include fantasy, excitement and creativity. Without what the said cruelty to animals, then life would be numb. There are numerous examples of the ways in which human practices rely on some degree of animal cruelty to have a significant meaning and impact. They include religious practices, art, sport and cultural expressions (Wolfe, 1993). In the same manner, where society allows for rearing of cows and other animals for their meat products, it should allow the use of fur and leather to make clothing.

The debate on animal cruelty wrongfully advocates for the total avoidance of animal products. If that were truly a justified case, then it would be inappropriate and immoral to use any animal for any benefit. If activist campaigns against use of fur and leather were sincere then, they would also discourage wildlife tourism and bird watching as human activities that exploit animals and birds. Unfortunately, they do not and that serves as a container for suspicion in their arguments.

Animal cruelty is subjective depending on culture. It is wrong to assume that every fur and leather product comes from an animal that faced torturous conditions. There is need to recognize that animals have lifespans and one way or another they must die. Secondly, domestication of animals is product of civilization whose aim is to benefit from the animal products without having to endure the stress of hunting down animals like other predators.

Before industries were developed, humans lived in forage societies and had no capacity to manufacture alternatives to animal products through processing of plants and other materials. The advent of industrialization is good because it provides alternatives to fur and leather among other things. However, it does not present an absolute solution to the balance of species in the world. A scenario where there is no use of animal product or their derivatives for the sake of saving animals from cruelty appears noble but hides problems of population control that would arise.

In natural selection, predators help to keep species populations within numbers that their environment can support. When you remove a predator from an ecosystem, you allow the prey species population to grow without a check. The downside would be a rapid reduction of the species serving as food to the former prey species. The resulting food chain would be unstable and eventually collapse with the death of all species out of lack of food unless a new species appears to complete the food chain. Likewise, human predation of animals serves the natural order of maintaining their populations. On the other hand, as human population increases, it is only appropriate that other animal populations decrease so that a balance suffices on the food chain. Food chain in this case includes use of animal products other than food. Moreover, as the demand for certain animal products increases against their limited supply, their value increases. When the importance of such animals increases, then naturally it becomes apparent that their preservation is more profitable to the society than their destruction. However, this does not imply that such animals should not be killed. Instead, the harvest of their products, either meat of otherwise, needs a more sustainable approach.

The debate about the use and killing of animals should not be about cruelty, except in the extreme cases, but on the sustainability of their use to the ecosystem. According to PETA, an organization advocating against use of animal products such as fur, animals have their throats cut while they are still conscious (PETA, n.d.). That is true; however, it does not amount to cruelty in an extreme sense. Besides, any other way of killing the animals let blood remain in the animal’s body when the requirement is for a blood free meat. Moreover, PETA claims that it is cruel to skin animals alive (PETA, n.d.). What opinion would the same organization hold for a lion in the wild hunting and feasting on an antelope as it fought for its life?

Conclusion

It is natural for one species to kill another for food and other resources including pleasure (Wenz, 1989). People concerned with the cruelty of killing animals for fur and leather need to remind themselves that the industries producing the alternatives that they advocate for also guilty of animal cruelty as they define it. Just like fur production leads to the production of wastes that pollute the environment, the alternative products also pass through the industrial process leading to by-products that have negative environmental effects. Therefore, it is hypocritical to call for a stop on animal cruelty by discouraging use of fur and leather. Once again, everyone should be free to wear fur and leather. Concerns should be on sustainability of the environment rather than morality.

References

PETA. (n.d.). Animals used for clothing. Retrieved 5 July 2011, from http://www.peta.org/issues/animals-used-for-clothing/default2.aspx

Wenz, P. S. (1989). Treating animals naturally. Between the Species, 1-10. Retrieved 5 July 2011, from http://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1098&context=bts

Wolfe, A. (1993). The human difference: animals, computers and the necessity of social science. Los Angeles: University of California.

Comprehensive art education

The knowledge of the efficacy of art education is important for school tutors and their faculty who desire to have the best teaching methods. Additionally, parents are interested in having their kids go through the education system and graduate being well armed with skills to help them cope with the ever changing world and discourage jeopardy of their futures as adults (Steers, 2007). Communities also wish that the learned population were able to put into good use their acquired knowledge for the wellbeing of the society. The paper is looking to analyze in detail the art education and its importance to education stakeholders and society.

The sole aim of a teacher is to equip students with the necessary skills postulated by the curriculum. The transfer of knowledge from teacher to student often entails the use of different methods. However, several researches in the education sector agree that, students learning needs to be engaging if he/she is to grasp the details (Manzo, 2008). The use of art has been identified as one of the effective forms of engaging students and helps them think in a wider perspective. The application of art into the process of learning enables foster student creativity outside the learning material used in the course. In addition, a teacher who uses art in his/her course encourages student participation to an extent where the students are able to learn in an independent form. Moreover, the student emulating the teacher and the advanced examples in the learning tutorials is able to learn with a little personal effort. The ability of engaging individual knowledge to process given information individually is the nerve of the philosophy of art teaching. The intention of a teacher is to facilitate learning and he/she is required to lay a foundation for the student to construct it from there.

Learning is a mental process. Students need to be natured and shown the importance of art if the subject is to be accommodated with much ease. In addition, the students have a responsibility of changing their perspective and align it with the topic. The realization of the aforementioned is through cultivation of a cordial relationship between the tutor and the student in relation to art. In addition, there is need for the tutor to engage the mental and social state of the student to foster interest on the subject. Motivation is the result of mental engagement and it entails keeping the student spirits high at all time to enhance learning. There is a thin line between individual lives and art subject as the two are entangled to help student develop new dimensions of learning. This means that an art teacher is responsible of nurturing a mind that has ability to develop new horizons outside the learned areas. It is therefore paramount that the teacher is well versed with the knowledge limitations of the students to be able to maneuver easy learning techniques for them. Students look up to the teachers for motivation; this necessitates constant encouragements and rewards to keep art learning on track (Eger, 2008).

Conducive learning environment is essential for harnessing full potential of students. Tutors often have an urge to drive their students to reach set goals with ease; they use several methods to reach this ultimate goal. First, they encourage teamwork between different students. A team is made up of students with diverse modes of understanding. Working in a team means one is exposed to different challenges. In addition, groups enable the improvement of individual social conduct (LaPorte et al., 2008). Working in a team requires adherence to some etiquette, this therefore enhances the maturity of these persons. Secondly, tutors have the responsibility to give out exercises that are much engaging and require much individual analysis. The use of art enhances the thinking nature of students. The acquired knowledge enables them to analyze different issues critically demonstrating a skill of independent learning. With this developed mental state, the student is able to borrow from external learning resources for additional course learning.

Tutors are custodians of student inspiration and they often ensure that students vividly understand the initial stages of learning to prevent confusion on complex areas (Manzo, 2007). There is a considerable amount of challenges in the art learning process. They range from the amount of teacher interest on the subject to student inability to relate daily life with the subject matter. It is therefore paramount to ensure that the chosen tutor who is responsible for the dissemination of knowledge is passionate about the subject. There is a direct relationship between the level of teachers’ passion and the student understanding of the subject. It is considerably hard for a student to develop passion for an art when the teacher interest on the same is low. Developing students to appreciate the challenges experienced in the course of learning is important. This will eliminate the appetite of doing a task in a single manner and therefore enhance creativity. In addition, good teachers need to instill in their students that art is inbuilt and perspective on art is diverse. This will create an environment where students are motivated by individual development and innovations (Manzo, 2007).

Art education is an interesting area of learning. Students and teachers are always in a learning process. In addition, the amount of information and innovation developed in a daily basis are high. This has broadened the interaction arena between the tutors and students. The amount of critiques and appreciation of originality is amazing and it acts as innovation to the stakeholders. The capability of developing a design to tangible ideas and materials enhances maturity. Comprehensive art education is essential as it encourages responsibility. Students’ participation in several learning arenas will be improved and will encourage prudent use of time (LaPorte et al., 2008).

In conclusion, it is apparent that art education is essential learning tool as it levels the leaning ground of all students. Students have ability and opportunity of equal success in the field. In addition, art enables students to discover themselves and nature their talent with the guidance of an inspiring teacher. Several researches have advanced that, art is the only subject that unravels the uniqueness and potential of different students. However, the choice of teachers to advance the subject is important. This enhances the inspiration and urge of learning the subject. Student inspiration is important in the success of art education. Teachers need to undergo a thorough vetting during selection; this will ensure that the write people are handling the students. In addition, the sensitivity of a teacher is of utmost importance as it allows them gauge student abilities and relatively develops them. Given the aforementioned issues are taken into consideration, successful art education will be realized.

 

References

Eger, J. M. (2008). The arts in contemporary education. School Administrator, 65 (3), 32–35.

LaPorte, A. M., Speirs, P. & Young, B. (2008). Art curriculum influences: A national survey. Studies in Art Education, 49 (4), 358–370.

Manzo, K. K. (2007). House plan embraces subjects viewed as neglected. Education Week, 27 (3), 21 S12.

Manzo. K. K. (2008). Districts and partners coordinate on arts education. Education Week, 27 (42), 8–9.

Steers, J. (2007). The ever expanding art curriculum—is it teachable or sustainable? International Journal of Education through Art, 3 (2), 141–153.

Gay marriage legalization

Traditionally in the contemporary society, a relationship between a male and female was seen as both religious and legal way of relating (Mello 17). On the other hand, Homosexual relationships have always been at the receiving end of criticism and individuals who engaged in it were lambasted. Critics argue that a gay marriage is a social evil that ought to be condemned at all levels. However, the society is slowly finding gay relationships acceptable. In this essay, I am looking keenly at the evolution of gay marriages and the shaping of its legalization through public opinion.

Gay marriage is a love commitment between individuals of the same sex i.e. in this case, a man and a man (Mello 97). Most countries are skeptical about the legalization of gay marriage. In the United States of America, these relationships are illegal. However, individual states have the freedom to legalize these marriages. The United States constitution advances that states are mandated to recognize the laws of other states. This implies that, given the acceptance of gay marriage in a state and the couples move to a different state, the other state is under obligation to accept and recognize the marriage (Craig and Clyde 165). From the aforementioned, the legalization of gay marriage in a state legitimizes the marriage in an entire country.

Civil society and other movements who were is support of gay rights and marriages went public in the 1970s. However, 21^st century marked the climax of gay marriages crusades. During the first decade of 21^st century, public opinion was in favor of legalization of these marriages. However, policy makers were not keen to make readjustments to factor in the opinions of the majority (Craig and Clyde 267). The federal law for example fails to give a definition of marriage. In addition, despite the same law postulating that gay marriages are illegal, it has a provision that the country is obliged to recognize any marriage accepted by individual states.

The rights of gay individuals have always been jeopardized by ungrounded believes and arguments. Before rubbishing the fears of the opponents of the legalizations on these marriages, it is important to analyze their assertions before refuting their arguments as baseless. Of importance to note is that most opponents base their arguments in moral grounds other than the constitution. This is evident in their assertion that gay marriages are in violation of religious freedoms. However, demonizing gay marriage as sin does not remove individual rights off the constitution. The constitution in defends of individual rights asserts that every view or lack of it ought to be accorded much respect by parties (Craig and Clyde 153). Government is mandated to formulate legislation on behalf of all its citizens and allowing being arm twisted on religious grounding is unacceptable.

In my opinion, gay marriages need to be legalized and spouses allowed to enjoy all benefits that comes with it. Gay marriages is a lifestyle which is gaining popularity in the modern society and curtailing some privileges i.e. critical medical decisions is being insensitive to the plight of the civil couples. In addition, formulating laws to guide the establishments of gay institutions is being sensitive to the plight of minority in the society. In most countries, constitutions are devised in a manner that empowers the majority, however in light of democracy and to avoid discrimination of a mild grouping, protection of minority rights is important. In accordance to the discussion, I advocate for the legalization of gay marriages, as it poses no harm to either the society or individuals.

 

Works Cited

Craig, Rimmerman and Clyde Wilcox. The politics of same-sex marriage. Sassen, Saskia: University of Chicago Press, 2007.

Mello, Michael. Legalizing gay marriage. New York, NY: Temple University Press, 2004.

Generation Y Employee : The Demand for Innovative HRM?

The business society is rapidly changing. The evolution of the workforce is imminent. Generation Y is a group of individuals who have come into existence after generation X. Organizations have been forced to restructure their systems to enable them attract and retain the generation Y employee. The generation is characterized by familiarity with modern technologies i.e. social media and telecommunication technologies. . This group of individuals born between early 1980 to mid-1990 has a great number of demands. Their demands depend on a range of aspects i.e. growth environment and its socio-economic state. To satisfy their demands, innovative human resource management is paramount. The alignment of firm human resource management, top company management and resources are important in ensuring that companies realize their set goals (Roy 2008).in addition, internal company communication is a vital tool in ensuring generation Y employee is kept motivated toward achievement of company growth. Generation y employees have a universal believe that their work efforts ought to be measured by how it influences the society. The unpredictable nature of these individuals poses a management challenge to human resource managers. Their behavior is often shaped by events and life developments. Peer influence is evident in generation Y because of technology influence where individuals are able to maintain frequent communication with their mates through social networking sites i.e. Facebook and twitter (Kaufman 2011). The essay seeks to evaluate the innovative ways to be adopted by human resource managers to attract and retain this 21^st century employee.

While Woodruffe (2009) believes that significant changes are required in attracting, developing and retaining the millennial generation, Kyles (2005) believes companies should focus on finding strategies that appeal to all generations. However, the world is moving towards internet business. Social business advances a forum where consumers, employees and companies interact and ensure that each group needs are addressed fully. The swiftness of human resource in addressing the demands of firms’ employees will relatively lead to company gains on losses. The traditional methods of attracting and retaining employees are too formal and outdated. The changing business environment demands the adaptation of new dynamics that merge well with the modern demands. The productive capability of the generation y employees cannot allow firms to adopt a neutral ground to satisfy all employees. These individuals have access to real time developments in the business world and failure to address their issues in real time will lead to frustrations and subsequent resignations. Therefore, the traditional management structures of companies need to be restructured to ensure employees feel empowered. Moreover, several generation y employees are entering the job market annually and firms need to be well strategist to address their demands and harness their knowledge to enhance growth and increase revenue.

According to Cone (2007), despite entering the market with hyped self-worth, many generation y employees are well educated and well versed with modern technology. Existing employees find it hard to cope with their sense of personality. However, to address these challenges, existing leaders need to advance prudent management practices that ensure the recruited employees are trained and relatively retained by firms (McLean 2008). The existing job market is employees driven. This curtails cordial working relationship between employers and employees. Firms that are keen in nurturing their relationship with their employees ought to adopt a criterion that works well with generation y. Traditional human resource code of conduct and processes differ to a large extend with the believes and characteristics of generation y. From the aforementioned, it is apparent that generation y employees are rewriting the human resource norms and rules. Generation y is the sole individuals who will agitate and change the traditional ways of running firms. To survive in this rapid transforming environment, adopting new technology is a mild option. Adjusting company culture and aligning it with the latest market developments nurtures motivation. In addition, adopting modern processes and a culture that is in accordance to the new dispensation will attract and retain these smart productive employees.

While workforce planning has long been a function for many organizations, it has become of increased importance because of the emergence of globalization, changing demographics, and other factors (Gerry 2009). The world labor market is open to individuals who are willing and able to deliver. The generation y grew in an environment with acute changes in technology. They are well versed with the modern technology. This gives them an edge over generation x and past generations. They are able to work in any part of the world and still meet expectations of their employers. Information technology has enhanced globalization making the world a global village. In addition, generation y employees are keen in the final output. Their presence in the office is not a primary objective as they are able to achieve set company goals at their comfort. Workforce planning is important in ensuring firms have enough employees at a particular time. Competition for smart employees is rampant in the 21^st century. Therefore, to attract and retain employees while ensuring company growth goals are on course, prudent planning is important. Revolution of technology has opened up many employment avenues for generation y. This together with lenient labor laws between countries has enhanced access to new job opportunities. The developments drive employees to quit employment and seek for greener pasture in companies that offer better compensation. The demand for generation y employees in the labor market is in the rise, resting compensation bargains solely in their hands (Kehrli 2006). Thriving in such an environment call for sound workforce planning that will ensure right employees are recruited.

According to Kaufman (2011), while agitating for a good working environment, generation y employees are sensitive to social matters. Offering challenging tasks not only does it enhance their creativity but also create a sense of satisfaction. Generation y employees are attracted to employers who have a well-outlined corporate social responsibility plan (Kehrli 2006). Firms that have displayed their commitment toward various social aspects have been able to attract and retain these employees. The world is going green and most countries are agitating for reduction in greenhouse emissions. This implies that in the near future, most employees will be going green. Therefore, to attract highly qualified staff in the future, most firms will adopt green building environment.

Frequent feedback and freedom at work has been identified as important aspects that nurture cordial relationship between top management and generation y (Roy 2008). Many scholars have identified past generations to be lenient to authoritarian authorities and management style. However, generation y employees are intolerant to weak leaders. They demand timely clear communication from company management. The type of feedback is not limited to face-to-face communications. Emails and other social networking messaging may be used to transfer positive information. Traditional ways of running companies have always been associated with higher productivity. Existing employees always referred as generation x have devised ways of meeting company objectives despite insensitive leadership. Apart from constant communication from the top company management, generation y employees also like freedom. This implies that upon delegation of duties, they should be given personal space to work on the task at their own schedules. Taking breaks at their own ours and reporting to duty at their own hours. These requirements are huge for companies to bear. It is a big headache to firms’ management and calls for guidance and mentorship from senior management (Roy 2008).

While Eckle (2009) suggests that social networking sites are good recruitment sources, Solove (2008) believes that information gathered from such sites is unreliable, and therefore they are not a reputable source. Despite holding different view in relation to information reliability, the scholars agree that most of generation y information is found in social networking sites. According to Roy (2008), a company that seeks to recruit generation y employees ought to be well versed with the technology world. Furthermore, the scholar argues that any recruiting body that is not aware of the existence of social networking sites i.e. LinkedIn, my space and other sites are failing in their quest to recruit generation y employees. From the scholar, it is apparent that a good number of these 21^st century employees are found in networking sites. In addition, recruiting from social networking sites will give managers a wider pool of employees to select. Generation y employees are fully networked individuals. Harnessing talent from a networked pool cuts down recruitment costs while employing qualified individuals.

According to Jorgensen (2011), firms that break away from their traditional mode of operations and embrace a flexible attitude toward its employees thrive in maintaining its workforce. Maintaining a company culture that is insensitive to bonding and networking will gag generation y employee. Due to the influence of social networking sites, generation y employees seek companionship with workmates (Smith 2003). They relate well when their colleagues treat them as friends. With a networked workplace environment, where employees are allowed to work with the guidance of a qualified network, employees will complete their assignments timely. It is therefore apparent that to advance in such a working environment, managers need to establish teams that can relate efficiently to deliver allocated tasks at minimal costs.

Generation y employees are unique in a number of aspects. First, they prefer knowledge to job titles (Kim 2009). They subscribe to a common believe that upon harnessing additional knowledge and job skills, moving up the management ladder is an automatic constant aspect. This is contrary to the traditional structure where individual promotions are guided by the level of experience and the amount of time spent in a company. Rigidity by companies to adjust their structures to reflect the changing times and subsequent needs of generation y leads to mass job exit by this 21^st century employees. It is estimated that an average generation y employee quits employment in a span of two years. This implies that at age 40, the employee will have worked with nearly 16 companies (Kim 2009). This exposes companies to many risks as information may easily be transferred to their competitors. In addition, the statistic poses a challenge to companies looking to retain their employees for longer periods.

According to Smith (2003) in order for Australian organizations to attract and retain talent, as well as become globally competitive, investing in Training and development is crucial and requires developing a strategic, measurable and long-term Human Resource approach. Generation y is attracted to companies that value personal development. Australian companies that have been able to stay ahead in competition are those that have formulated measures to attract and retain employees. Additional training and room to advance academically are key aspects looked by the generation y employee. Understaffed companies are unable to meet their consumer target, relatively losing the market share to competing companies. Appropriate training keeps companies prospects on course. The company is able to budget well for the future and adjust its set strategies with a more stable employee base. However, with the behavior of these generation y employees, it is not certain that after training and development they will be loyal to the company for long periods (Kim 2009). It is therefore prudent to review human resource approach regularly to ensure companies policies are kept on course.

According to Jorgensen (2011), a good number of companies subscribe to the assertion that active social networking sites are a waste of company production time. Traditional companies have hired information technology specialists to block off social networks i.e. Facebook, twitter and YouTube from company machines. However, the drastic measures are a blow to comp-any development. Despite the social networking sites being a zone to refresh after mind-boggling tasks, it provides an avenue for information. Harnessing social network information benefits the firm in a large margin. Generation y employees use social networks to keep track of their friends and future activities. Sharing this information with company management implies that the company will be well poised to prepare well for future expectations. Human resource departments are able to acquire vital information about their employees if they are allowed to use social networks. Work frustrations, estate relocations and need to change jobs are some information that a company strategic organ can obtain from social sites (Eckle 2009). Therefore, from the aforementioned, it is apparent that to be well versed with information about the generation y employee it is important to encourage the use of social media.

Technology has changed the dynamics of traditionally managed companies. Company targets are important in gauging all employees. Most companies still confine workers in company premises. However, according to Roy (2008), generation y employees are able to meet the company targets without necessarily being present in the workplace. ‘Why confine me in a place when I can deliver and keep a production targets at a coffee shop’ are the words of a few interviewed generation y (Roy 2008, p. 9). Understanding the behavior of this generation is a big headache to human resource managers. However, according to MCGINNIS (2011), vital information about generation y employees can be obtained from their immediate family and peers. Generation y employee growth environment and experiences are likely to shape their way of operation. A good salary drives this most skillful generation of the century and they will not hesitate to look for firms that are keen in satisfying their desires. Generation y communication is limited to their friends at the social media. Most of them are unable to open up to company management. To be versed with their thoughts on various aspects, human resource managers need to befriend them at the social sites. Generation y employees share some attitude with their parents. Parents have been able to take them through the education system, ‘saving’ their children from ‘unfair’ tutors and circumstances. They share their feeling about every aspect of their life with their parents. It is therefore paramount that the parents contribute to a large extend their character traits. Providing mentorship and spending more time with them helps managers, understand their reaction towards a number of aspects.

In conclusion, companies that have successfully related well with generation y employees have been able to thrive in their respective industry (Andy 2008). Being able to multitask together with their unmatched stamina helps generation y increase their performance in the work place. Their speed of accessing and grasping information is remarkable. Generation y ability to focus on company results and their drive to change the world enable a firm increase its turnover. To attract and retain generation y employees, firms need to adopt sound policies i.e. the training and development programs. In addition, company traditional culture of promotions need to be shelved to ensure that promotions and rewards are triggered by merit. Generation y employees will continue to pose challenges to human resource managers. However, keeping pace with their demands will drive firm vision. Aligning companies to environmental and other social responsibilities will tend to interest these employees (Damian 2011). Moreover, allocating some time for mentorship and bonding enables firm managers understand their character. In addition, help in molding them to align with company values. In summary, this emerging workforce demands innovation in the human resource department.

List of references

Cone, E 2007, ‘Bridging the Generation Gap’, CIO Insight, no. 88, pp.18-27, 7.

Solove, D 2008, ‘The end of privacy?’, Scientific American.

Kaufman, BE 2011, ‘THE FIRM'S CHOICE OF HRM PRACTICES: ECONOMICS MEETS STRATEGIC HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT’, Industrial & Labor Relations Review, Vol. 64,no. 3, pp. 526-557.

Eckle, J 2009, ‘Get social, get a job’, ComputerWorld.

Kim, H 2009, ‘Generation Y employees' retail work experience: The mediating effect of job characteristics’, Journal of Business Research, Vol. 62, no. 5, pp. 548-556.

Damian, H 2011,’GENERATION Y IN THE WORKPLACE’, Estates Gazette, Vol. 1136, pp. 105-106.

Woodruffe, C 2009, ‘Generation Y’, Training Journal.

Gerry, H 2009, ‘Here They Come-Generation Y. Are You Ready?’, Journal of Financial Service Professionals, Vol. 63, no. 3, pp. 33-34.

Jorgensen, F 2011, ‘The HRM practices of innovative knowledge-intensive firms, International Journal of Technology Management, Vol. 56, no. 2, pp. 123-137.

Kehrli, S 2006, ‘Managing Generation Y’, HRMagazine, Vol. 51, no. 5, pp. 113-119.

McLean, R 2008, ‘ Recruiting and retaining the best of Gen Y’, Employee Benefit News, Vol. 22, no. 2, pp. 20-22.

Smith, A 2003, ‘Recent trends in Australian training and development’, Asia Pacific Journal of Human Resource Management, vol. 41, no. 2, pp231-244.

Roy, JG 2008, ‘Ten tips for retaining the next generation’, Utility Automation & Engineering T&D, Vol. 13, no.12, pp. 8-11.

MCGINNIS, J 2011, ‘THE YOUNG AND RESTLESS: GENERATION Y IN THE NONPROFIT WORKFORCE’,Public Administration Quarterly, Vol. 35, no. 3, pp. 342-362.

Andy,A 2008, ‘ Young, gifted and hired’, People Management, Vol. 14, no. 21, pp. 12-17.

Define productive efficiency. Does productive efficiency imply allocative effiency Explain.

According to Rasmussen (2011), productive efficiency is the ability of firms to maximize the utilization of their inputs at the minimal cost to realize maximum output. Productive efficiency is often realized by considering the minimal point Average cost (AC) that brings forth maximum output. From the aforementioned, firms that produce at the lower region in the long run are considered productive efficient and enjoy the economies of scale (Rasmussen 2011).

To a large extent, Yes. Allocative efficiency is a situation where individuals realize a better economic state by worsening off the economic state of other individuals (Mankiw 2011). This implies that for a positive impact in someone life, another person is paying the price i.e. is in a worst state. On the other hand, productive efficiency implies an economic state whereby to increase output of a product by a unit means a decrease or reduction of the production level of another good (Rasmussen 2011).

To realize allocative efficiency, the price that the consumers are willing and able to pay equals the unit cost of production i.e. Consumer price=Marginal Cost (Mankiw 2011). Given the aforementioned condition is realized, customer welfare is maximized. According to Rasmussen (2011), Productive efficiency entails the production of a given unit of output at the lowest unit per cost.

The lower unit per cost is realized when, MC=AC. Moreover, in the long run, Price = Marginal cost = Average cost (Mankiw 2011). This implies that, when a consumer is maximizing the state of their economic welfare i.e. at the point where Price = Marginal cost, firms are also producing efficiently at the same level where Marginal cost= Average cost. The illustration above clearly depicts that production efficiency imply allocative efficiency.

References

Rasmussen, S. (2011). Production Economics: The Basic Theory of Production Optimisation. New Mexico: Springer.

Mankiw,G.N.(2011). Principles of Economics. Michigan: Cengage Learning.