The world’s population is increasing at a rapid rate....

The world’s population is increasing at a rapid rate. According to Worldometers, by 2050 there will be a need to feed 9.2 billion people globally (http://www.worldometers.info/world-population/). This translates to an increase in global food production by 70 percent to meet the global goal (http://www.populationinstitute.org/resources/populationonline/issue/1/8/). However, current food production methods are not sustainable and the amount of arable lands is decreasing. The agriculture industry experiences different challenges ranging from global to technological aspects. The global aspect is the most prominent challenges experienced and influenced by different factors such as dramatic economic growth in developing nations and urbanization†¦show more content†¦Food production imposes additional stress on natural resources such as soil nitrogen and phosphorus content. This affects the quality, productivity and sustainability of food production as crop growers turn to su pplementing their land with necessary soil nutrients for their crops. This has negative effect on the ecosystem as the ‘agricultural run-off’ can pollute the nearby waterways. According to Kleinman, et al., (2011, p. 170), â€Å"nutrient pollution is a global phenomenon readily witnessed in developing and developed worlds alike† and affects the waterway and lake systems that serve as a source of food production. Land cultivation and management techniques that had been employed for centuries are not sustainable. Practices such as over-tilling and lack of crops rotation can strip away important nutrients thus affecting soil quality and productivity. Moreover, the option of expanding arable lands to meet increasing demand for food production is no longer possible. According to World Bank (2010), 29.4 million hectares of farmlands were lost in developed and developing countries due to economic development and urbanization (Table 1). This adds to the challenge in meet ing the need to increase higher food production for the growing global population. Agriculture biotechnology organizations are committed to solve crop production problems and enhance agriculture productivity to sustainable levels to keep pace with the rapidly

Animal Farm - Napoleon and Boxer Act in Ways to Destroy...

The novel, Animal Farm, was written by George Orwell and published in 1946. George Orwells Animal Farm is a political satire of a totalitarian society ruled by a mighty dictatorship, in all probability an allegory for the events surrounding the Russian Revolution of 1917. The animals of the Manor Farm overthrow their human master after a long history of mistreatment. Led by the pigs, the farm animals continue to do their work, only with more pride, knowing that they are working for themselves, as opposed to working for humans. Little by little, the pigs become dominant, gaining more power and advantage over the other animals, so much so that they become corrupt and power-hungry as their predecessors, the humans. Napoleons and Boxers†¦show more content†¦The great cart-horse Boxer devotes himself to the cause, taking I will work harder as his maxim and committing his great strength to the prosperity of the farm. Boxer then pledges hi allegiance to Napoleon; his speech is indi cative of the discourse fed to him day in and day out. Boxer says aloud, Napoleon is always right, intones the horse at just the crucial moment when a sign of his disapproval or even doubt might have stalled, if not thwarted, Napoleons bid for sole power. Boxer was dedicated to the completion of the windmill. One day while building the windmill, Boxer falls and hurts his lung. Napoleon knows he has gained all of Boxers trust. Napoleon sells his most loyal worker to a glue-maker for whisky-money, while claiming to have sent him to a human hospital, where, according to Squealer, he died in peace. br brWhile life following a dictator might have proved to be successful and reasonable for a short amount of time, after the actual conditions are understood by its inhabitants, it is almost impossible for it to prosper. The lack of voice and resources Napoleon provided for the other animals was simply leading to another rebellion. Power through the people is the only successful was for a society to prosper, as the people are the only ones who can complete the grudge work for the community to

Concepts of Self-Efficacy and Self-Handicapping- myassignmenthelp

Question: Discuss about theConcepts of Self-Efficacy and Self-Handicapping. Answer: Self-descriptions found in American college students and Japanese college students According to Gelfand, Chiu, and Hong, the majority of American college students tend to provide self-descriptions based on personality traits. In contrast to that, Japanese college students are more inclined towards describing themselves in terms of group membership and social roles. In a study conducted in the late 20th century, around 58% American students considered personality traits to be amongst the top-five self-descriptors whereas only 18.6% Japanese college students chose the personal self as the parameter for self-description. This contrasting behavior is largely due to the society both American and Japanese college students live in. Concept of Self-handicapping Many authors have defined self-handicapping in their own ways. However, the term generally means the attitude of individuals towards the certainty of the outcomes of their tasks. It refers to the instantiation of failures by individuals who are uncertain about the results of their ability in any task. Higgins, Snyder and Berglas, have illustrated it with an example of a drunkard man who lives a lavish life. He externalizes his failure of being a socially active person to his lavish upbringing, having no need to carry out responsibilities. The aim of self-handicapping, especially amongst students is to protect their self-esteem by externalizing the reason for their failure (Aka 288). Dialectical synthesis of nature and nurture The dialectic involves three elements, the thesis, the antithesis and the synthesis. Thesis is the generation of an idea or a concept, antithesis is the contradicting argument opposing the thesis and synthesis is the understanding of thesis and antithesis. It can be demonstrated with an example where students in a class are asked to debate on the importance of nature that is biological characteristics and nurture that is upbringing (Smith and Korydon). While debating on both issues, students reach a point where they discover that both nature and nurture influence human psychology. The nature is the thesis and nurture is the antithesis. When these two extremes are coalesced, it forms the dialectical synthesis of nature and nurture. Three Neurological systems defined by reinforcement sensitive theory J.A. Gray was the first to devise the Reinforcement Sensitivity Theory (RST) in the year 1970 where he talked about the three neurological systems that emphasize personal differences in individuality and psychology. First is the behavioral approach system (BAS) where behaviors anticipated to seek rewards are motivated. Activation of this system results in the desiring for exhilaration, demonstration of extraordinary perseverance and elation when rewarded. Second is the fight-flight system (FFS) where behaviors expected to avoid fear, panic and anxiety are motivated. Third and final one is the behavioral inhibition system (BIS) that involves resolution of conflicts between challenging goals. Differences between problem-focused and emotion-focused coping There are many differences between problem-focused and emotion-focused coping. However, the one basic difference may be outlined here. When a person copes with a certain situation causing stress through engagement in or active planning to overcome the stress situation, he uses the problem-focused coping strategy. Taking help from mentors, managing time to tackle situations are included in problem-focused coping. On the other hand, emotion-focused coping involves a persons engagement in activities like meditation to cope with a stressful situation. Other ways of emotion-focused coping also includes distraction, eating comfort foods, drinking alcohol and so on. Evolutionary psychologists on difference between men and women Evolutionary psychologists believe that the basic difference between men and women arouse from their different reproductive status and abilities. Women, they say, possess traits that allow them to protect their offspring because they are responsible for its birth. According to the theorists, women in three past were exceedingly good in perceiving and hence evolved traits softer to that of men. On the other hand, men are less interested in reproduction are less selective about their mates. In addition, they were exceptional hunters with their superior throwing skills and thus were considered physically superior to women. Banduras concept of self-efficacy in relation to self-determination theory Self-efficacy, in simple terms, is the belief of a person that he or she can influence a situation or make a difference. Albert Bandura related self-efficacy to motivation, which is a psychological activity. When one feels motivated that his or her actions can change the outcome of a situation, he or she is said to be self-efficacious. Self-efficacy has inherent connection with the self-determination theory. Proposed by Edward L. Deci and Richard M. Ryan, the theory encourages human motivation. The motivation that ones choices and actions can influence the results of a particular situation is the basic principle that underlies this theory (Deci and Ryan 95). The hopelessness model of depression According to the hopelessness theory of depression, an individual who attributes any negative situation as his or her own fault is at a bigger risk of being depressed. To elaborate it further, those who point a pessimistic event to inner, constant, and inclusive causes were at bigger probability of developing depression. A person who had a heated argument with an acquaintance attributes it to his own weaknesses such as poor communication skills (inner) that is not likely to change (constant) and that is more likely to affect future communications with others as well (inclusive), is an example of this theory. Problem of self-regulation and its intervention One has to focus on the three vital psychological needs, as per the self-determination theory- autonomy, competence and relatedness. In order to achieve desired results in studies, one has to take control of his or her own behavior. To give an example, while studying in-group, one can develop the skills to motivate other peers that the specific subject is fruitful and interesting. Secondly, having the belief that one has the capability to direct the result of an activity can largely help in developing good study habits. Lastly, connecting with peers and exchanging ideas would greatly benefit the outcomes of the activity, group study in this case. Internal and external locus of control Yes, it is better to have an internal locus of control than possessing an external locus. Internal locus of control is the idea that an individual feels that he or she can control the events or situation. External locus refers to the idea that a person always blames external factors for any negative situation. Thus, it is better to have control over things and situations rather than blaming others. However, internal locus can be damaging to ones own well being as it has a may lead to depression. It is an established fact that too much control over anything is negative. There must be a balance in both internal and external locus of control. According to learned helplessness, repeated contact to uncontrollable and adverse situation leads to the belief that the situation is inescapable even though that might not be the case. This leads to a deteriorated mental health that is depression (Ncbi.nlm.nih.gov). Evaluating the ways that ensures equal opportunity for men and women Apart from the biological differences, men and women have visible psychological differences that evolved with time and as per situation. It is thus imperative to state that although, the perception of men and the society overall towards women has changed, still there are areas where women must be given a chance to display their skills and be acknowledged equally. One area where the change can be brought is the difference in wage of both. Men are paid higher for the same work as done by women. This must be changed. Challenges and unique aspects of same-sex relationships Challenges The primary challenge faced by same-sex couples is the unacceptable attitude of the society that includes family and peers as well (Bigner and Wetchler). Another challenge is the openness of couples in same-sex relationships. It may happen that one couple might openly accept their relationship status and preferences whereas the other might be reluctant to do so. This leads to internal disturbances that are unlike heterosexual couples. Uniqueness Results of numerous studies on same-sex relationships have shown that these relationships have certain unique aspects that heterosexual couples can learn. It has been found that same-sex couples are more affectionate and humorous when it comes to solving an argument (Gottman 132). The power of control amongst gay and lesbian couples is more balanced than that of heterosexuals. References: Aka, Figen. "An investigation into the self-handicapping behaviors of undergraduates in terms of academic procrastination, the locus of control and academic success."Journal of Education and Learning1.2 (2012): 288. Bigner, Jerry, and Joseph L. Wetchler.Relationship therapy with same-sex couples. Routledge, 2014. Deci, Edward L., and Richard M. Ryan. "Motivation, personality, and development within embedded social contexts: An overview of self-determination theory."The Oxford handbook of human motivation(2012): 85-107. Gelfand, Michele J., Chi-yue Chiu, and Ying-yi Hong, eds.Handbook of advances in culture and psychology. Vol. 5. Oxford University Press, 2015. Gottman, John Mordechai. "Gottman couple therapy."Clinical handbook of couple therapy(2015): 129-157. Higgins, Raymond L., Charles Richard Snyder, and Steven Berglas.Self-handicapping: The paradox that isnt. Springer Science Business Media, 2013. Ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. 2017, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4689589/ Smith, Korydon, ed.Introducing architectural theory: debating a discipline. Routledge, 2013.

The Major Business Excellence Models

An analysis of the major business excellence models demonstrates a number of factors that should always be observed by business unit as a way of maintaining products quality. These business excellence models demonstrate a number of issues that should be taken note of by business units in order to be considered as operating optimally.Advertising We will write a custom assessment sample on The Major Business Excellence Models specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More These business models have a number of key learning points as shall be discussed in this research paper. The paper will focus on the key learning points from major business excellence models, with specific focus on ISO 9000 Standards and EFQM. One of the key learning points from the major business excellence models is that there is need to have a management team within a firm that is committed to monitoring, controlling, and constantly improving quality of employees’ perf ormance. IS0 9000 emphasizes on the need for the management to remain focused on making employees deliver high quality. The performance of an organization will always be determined by the performance of individual employees. The performance of these employees will be determined by the kind of management that is employed by the senior officials of the firm. If employees realize that the top management is committed to delivering quality, then they will always try to deliver the best output for their assignments. Another learning point from these major business excellence models is the need to have constant improvement of quality of products that a firm delivers. ISO 9000 emphasizes on the need to have constant improvement of products quality in the market. According to this model, the world is changing due to changes in various factors, especially in the field of technology. Firms should always strive to improve quality of their products constantly, in line with the changing environme ntal factors.Advertising Looking for assessment on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More EFQM business excellence model emphasizes on the need to be able to determine the current position on the journey towards success. According to this model, it is not possible to define the future if the present is not known. This means that the only way that a firm can achieve business excellence is by understanding its current state as far as issuing business excellence is concerned. Another major learning point from these business excellence models is the need to have a shared language that will allow various stakeholders to exchange knowledge or pieces of information within an organization as a way of enhancing performance. These models emphasize on the importance of teamwork. In order to have a successful teamwork, it is important to have a common language that can be used to disseminate ideas or knowledge to various pla yers within the industry. This is emphasized by EFQM business excellence model. ISO 9000 emphasizes on customer experience. This is another important learning point that should always be given enough emphasis by firms to ensure that they are sustainable in the market. The ultimate aim of any business unit is to deliver high quality products or services to its customers. This is the only way through which customers will remain loyal to the firm. Finally, the need to integrate activities that are already in existence and those that are under planning within the firm and continuous improvement of structural efficiency is another key learning point. This means that the planned activities should be in line with the current activities in order to ensure that there is consistency in delivering quality. This assessment on The Major Business Excellence Models was written and submitted by user Houston Hendricks to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.