Monday, December 30, 2019

Values, Morals, And Culture Essay - 1497 Words

Everyone has their own unique culture that they identify with which plays a huge role in shaping a person’s identity. Our values, morals, and experiences are structured by the society and culture that surround us each day. A person’s beliefs and morals are formed by culture and remains throughout their entire life. Culture varies from one place to another and it makes people throughout the world similar but very different as well. It made you the person you are today and determines who or what you choose to associate yourself with in the future. One element of culture is the learned behavior patterns and associated with it that we develop as we grow up living within the culture. Learned behavior isn’t something that is only exhibited by humans, but as well as animals such as dogs and cats that follow what their owner teaches them. Learned behaviors represent a crucial part of culture which can mean almost anything, from the way choose to dress to what we decide what is edible and inedible. Whenever we listen to music, celebrate holidays with others, cross our legs, or go out for relaxation we are practicing parts of our culture. We are not born behaving like we belong to that culture. To be socially acceptable citizens of a culture, we are taught from childhood of what is acceptable and unacceptable behavior. Along with this, we are trained to become a part of our surrounding culture. Apart from what we are taught, we also learn from people around us, from situations weShow MoreRelatedMoral Values are Influenced by Culture, Religion, Technology, Economy, Society, and Politics1351 Words   |  5 PagesGroup process: The three (3) moral values exists in a person are highly influenced by culture, religion, technology, economy, social and politics. These six (6) factors, inter-related each other. When a person starts a family, the spouse will share their beliefs and will possibly influce each other behaviour then they will apply the relevant values into their kids. This will be passed from generation to generation, creating a culture. The culture molded is usually influenced by religion. For exampleRead MoreCultural Relativism Essay1475 Words   |  6 PagesMoral principles being determined by each culture can be described as conventional ethical relativism. Every culture is entitled to have their own moral laws, beliefs and values, and these will differ from culture to culture. What is moral in one culture could be considered immoral in another, which is something that we must accept. With subjectivism, every individual is given the ability to determine their own morals, which often lead to chaot ic consequences. Ethnocentric, involves elevating otherRead MoreCultural Relativism And Morals And Codes883 Words   |  4 PagesDifferent cultures have different moral codes and values, therefore culture is subjective and arbitrary. When given a closer look at cultural relativism we come to the conclusion that it is not as plausible as it first appears and that certain moral values are needed in creating a sustainable and thriving society (57).In This paper I will begin with a short analyst briefly stating the beliefs of a cultural relativist, explaining their values and examining their views on cultural morals and codesRead MoreWhat Moral Relativism Are All Moral Opinions True? Essay1118 Words   |  5 PagesIf Moral Relativism is true are all Moral Opinions true? Inroduction: Say a person was asked to investigate a range of cultures ethics and their reasoning to come to a conclusion as to what is the ethical ideal that should be universalized. No matter how much depth and reasoning provided, it is most likely this person will conclude that their own cultural ethics will prevail. Not because the person is unsympathetic to other cultures, but because their own culture is most justified in their eyes.Read MoreA Relativist Is More Tolerant?1314 Words   |  6 Pagescontrast morally contradictory cultural values. A Universalist proposes values that are based on his or her own set of values. This can promote intolerance because it provides a basis to make moral judgments between cultures. This is also an example of ethnocentrism, or judging another culture by the values of one’s own culture. Essentially, moral rightness and wrongness are expressions of conventions and norms that vary between cultures. There is no objective or moral truth because actions cannot be judgedRead MoreConcepts Of Ethical Absolutism And Relativism1644 Words   |  7 Pagesterms of right and wrong constantly throughout life. The moral values that we decide to indoctrinate into our everyday lives are strongly motivated by cultural constraints in the eyes of some, to include anthropologist Dr. Ruth Benedict. Ethical relativism is defined as moral values being strongly dependent on time, place, and standards of a given culture. A contrasting theory to relativism is absolutism. The concept of a single, unwavering moral code used by all humans universally is absolutism. DrRead MoreCriticism Of Cultural Relativism1216 Words   |  5 PagesCultural relativism is the theory where there is no objective truth in morality, and moral truths are determined by different cultures. The primary argument used to justify cultural relativism is the cultural differences argument, which claims different cultures have different moral practices and beliefs, therefore, there is no objective truth in morality (Newton). After reading James Rachels The Challenge of Cultural Relativism, I find his criticisms to be persuasive because the argument made forRead MoreValue Pluralism and Absolute Moral Judgments Essay1565 Words   |  7 Pagesand deep moral disagreements are persistently resistant to rational solutions and thus allow for continuing debate over the validity of moral judgments. This paper will discuss prominent positions regarding whether moral judgments may be true and false in an absolute sense or a relative sense, in light of the diverse and intense disagreement in moral judgment. This paper will defend the pluralistic conclusion that if there are not specific universal values, there is at least a minimum value of humanityRead MoreEthics And The Argument On The Existence Of Subjective Moral Value1184 Words   |  5 PagesNo matter what culture you are apart of, or where you live, or what you believe, there is one underlying factor to which every human makes their everyday decisions in life: morality. A moral is defined as concerning or relating to what is right and wrong in human behavior. Many philosophers have argued and debated about moral subjectivity and objectivity from the start of philosophy. However, I will focus in on and agree with one particular philosopher, J.L. Mackie, and his argument on the existenceRead MoreMoral Relativism And Moral Truth1405 Words   |  6 Pages‘Is there such a thing as moral truth? What bearing does this have on law?’ Some would say that moral truth is another word for moral objectivism, since if something is true, then it means it’s an unchanging fact, hence it’s objective. Moral objectivism is the view that what is right or wrong is not dependent on individual or societal opinion, but instead is grounded on facts that are external to human society. It’s opposite is moral relativism which states that what is right or wrong varies according

Sunday, December 22, 2019

The Potential Impacts of Upcoming High-Stakes Testing on...

This research was both preliminary and exploratory, with intent to explore the effects of standardized tests in the area of teaching and learning science. The purpose of the research was clearly stated under a sub-heading. The goal was to collect data to indicate teachers’ perceptions and concerns about the high-stakes standardized science testing being implemented in the elementary school. Data of a qualitative nature was collected through surveys. Data about previous standardized testing instruments used in the district and a rationale and brief history of the teaching of science in the district was presented first. A significant amount of primary research regarding standardized testing, test preparation activities, science teaching†¦show more content†¦They used a sample of 10 suburban Florida schools within one district. These schools were selected due to accessibility and ability to obtain permission from principals and school boards. The researchers also believed that using schools from one district would decrease variability that might exist due to local policies. There were 100 teachers given samples with 38% returning valid responses. It was noted that the limited sample was problematic. The sample represented teachers teaching 1st to 5th grade, with 1 to 10 years of experience (with an average of 7.6 years), and educational backgrounds including all with undergraduate degrees in education, twelve with masters degrees, 2 with additional specialists degrees, and one participant with a doctoral degree. Data was collected using a questionnaire that was designed by the researchers. The procedures used to create this instrument were not included in the study. However, it was noted that time was a factor that prevented piloting and validation of the questionnaire. Details of the instrument included that it was a three-part instrument with 16 questions. Part I asked for demographic information and part II was designed to collect data on frequency and methods of teaching science and their own perceptions of their preparedness to teach science effectively. Part III was open ended and required teachers to elaborate on areas of concern in regard to impending standardizedShow MoreRelatedStrategy Safari by Mintzberg71628 Words   |  287 Pagesits many different tendencies, not the isolation of each. To enrich the experience of this safari, we hope to follow up with a Guidebook. We have also prepared an Instructor s Manual to facilitate the use of this rather unconventional book in the cla ssroom. We owe many thank-yous. Bob Wallace of The Free Press must be especially singled out. In the musical chairs world of publishing these x EMBARKATION days, to be able to work with someone of his caliber, dedication, and experience is mostRead MoreContemporary Issues in Management Accounting211377 Words   |  846 Pages Contemporary Issues in Management Accounting Edited by ALNOOR BHIMANI 1 Great Clarendon Street, Oxford ox2 6dp Oxford University Press is a department of the University of Oxford. It furthers the University’s objective of excellence in research, scholarship, and education by publishing worldwide in Oxford New York Auckland Cape Town Dar es Salaam Hong Kong Karachi Kuala Lumpur Madrid Melbourne Mexico City Nairobi New Delhi Shanghai Taipei Toronto With oYces in Argentina Austria Brazil ChileRead MoreStephen P. Robbins Timothy A. Judge (2011) Organizational Behaviour 15th Edition New Jersey: Prentice Hall393164 Words   |  1573 PagesFoundations of Organization Structure 479 v vi BRIEF CONTENTS 4 The Organization System 16 Organizational Culture 511 17 Human Resource Policies and Practices 543 18 Organizational Change and Stress Management 577 Appendix A Research in Organizational Behavior Comprehensive Cases Indexes Glindex 637 663 616 623 Contents Preface xxii 1 1 Introduction What Is Organizational Behavior? 3 The Importance of Interpersonal Skills 4 What Managers Do 5 ManagementRead MoreDeveloping Management Skills404131 Words   |  1617 PagesManager: Kelly Warsak Senior Operations Supervisor: Arnold Vila Operations Specialist: Ilene Kahn Senior Art Director: Janet Slowik Interior Design: Suzanne Duda and Michael Fruhbeis Permissions Project Manager: Shannon Barbe Manager, Cover Visual Research Permissions: Karen Sanatar Manager Central Design: Jayne Conte Cover Art: Getty Images, Inc. Cover Design: Suzanne Duda Lead Media Project Manager: Denise Vaughn Full-Service Project Management: Sharon Anderson/BookMasters, Inc. Composition: IntegraRead MoreFundamentals of Hrm263904 Words   |  1056 Pages This online teaching and learning environment integrates the entire digital textbook with the most effective instructor and student resources With WileyPLUS: Students achieve concept mastery in a rich, structured environment that’s available 24/7 Instructors personalize and manage their course more effectively with assessment, assignments, grade tracking, and more manage time better study smarter save money From multiple study paths, to self-assessment, to a wealth of interactive visual

Saturday, December 14, 2019

Intermediate Accounting 14th Chapter 5 Free Essays

string(47) " should be shown as such in the balance sheet\." Questions 1. The balance sheet provides information about the nature and amounts of investments in enterprise resources, obligations to enterprise creditors, and the owners’ equity in net enterprise resources. That information not only complements information about the components of income, but also contributes to financial reporting by providing a basis for (1) computing rates of return, (2) evaluating the capital structure of the enterprise, and (3) assessing the liquidity and financial flexibility of the enterprise. We will write a custom essay sample on Intermediate Accounting 14th Chapter 5 or any similar topic only for you Order Now 2. Solvency refers to the ability of an enterprise to pay its debts as they mature. For example, when a company carries a high level of long-term debt relative to assets, it has lower solvency. Information on long-term obligations, such as long-term debt and notes payable, in comparison to total assets can be used to assess resources that will be needed to meet these fixed obligations (such as interest and principal payments). 3. Financial flexibility is the ability of an enterprise to take effective actions to alter the amounts and timing of cash flows so it can respond to unexpected needs and opportunities. An enterprise with a high degree of financial flexibility is better able to survive bad times, to recover from unexpected setbacks, and to take advantage of profitable and unexpected investment opportunities. Generally, the greater the financial flexibility, the lower the risk of enterprise failure. 4. Some situations in which estimates affect amounts reported in the balance sheet include: (a)allowance for doubtful accounts. (b)depreciable lives and estimated salvage values for plant and equipment. (c)warranty returns. d)determining the amount of revenues that should be recorded as unearned. 5. An increase in inventories increases current assets, which is in the numerator of the current ratio. Therefore, inventory increases will increase the current ratio. In general, an increase in the current ratio indicates a company has better liquidity, since there are more current assets relative to current liabilities. 6. Liquidity describes the amount of time that is expected to elapse until an asset is converted into cash or until a liability has to be paid. The ranking of the assets given in order of liquidity is: (1) (d) Short-term investments. (2) (e) Accounts receivable. (3) (b) Inventory. (4) (c) Buildings. (5) (a) Goodwill. 7. The major limitations of the balance sheet are: (a)The values stated are generally historical and not at fair value. (b)Estimates have to be used in many instances, such as in the determination of collectibility of receivables or finding the approximate useful life of long-term tangible and intangible assets. c)Many items, even though they have financial value to the business, presently are not recorded. One example is the value of a company’s human resources. 8. Some items of value to technology companies such as Intel or IBM are the value of research and development (new products that are being developed but which are not yet marketable), the value of the â€Å"intellectual capital† of its workforce (the ability of the companies’ employees to come up with new ideas and products in the f ast changing technology industry), and the value of the company reputation or name brand (e. . , the â€Å"Intel Inside† logo). In most cases, the reasons why the value of these items are not recorded in the balance sheet concern the lack of faithful representation of the estimates of the future cash flows that will be generated by these â€Å"assets† (for all three types) and the ability to control the use of the asset (in the case of employees). Being able to reliably measure the expected future benefits and to control the use of an item are essential elements of the definition of an asset, according to the Conceptual Framework. 9. Classification in financial statements helps users by grouping items with similar characteristics and separating items with different characteristics. Current assets are expected to be converted to cash within one year or one operating cycle, whichever is longer—property, plant and equipment will provide cash inflows over a longer period of time. Thus, separating long-term assets from current assets facilitates computation of useful ratios such as the current ratio. 10. Separate amounts should be reported for accounts receivable and notes receivable. The amounts should be reported gross, and an amount for the allowance for doubtful accounts should be deducted. The amount and nature of any nontrade receivables, and any amounts designated or pledged as collateral, should be clearly identified. 11. No. Available-for-sale securities should be reported as a current asset only if management expects to convert them into cash as needed within one year or the operating cycle, whichever is longer. If available-for-sale securities are not held with this expectation, they should be reported as long-term investments. 2. The relationship between current assets and current liabilities is that current liabilities are those obligations that are reasonably expected to be liquidated either through the use of current assets or the creation of other current liabilities. 13. The total selling price of the season tickets is $20,000,000 (10,000 X $2,000). Of this amount, $8,000,000 has been earned by 12/31/12 (16/40 X $20,000,000). The remaining $12,000 ,000 should be reported as unearned revenue, a current liability in the 12/31/12 balance sheet (24/40 X $20,000,000). 14. Working capital is the excess of total current assets over total current liabilities. This excess is sometimes called net working capital. Working capital represents the net amount of a company’s relatively liquid resources. That is, it is the liquidity buffer available to meet the financial demands of the operating cycle. 15. (a)Shareholders’ Equity. â€Å"Treasury stock (at cost). † (b)Current Assets. Included in â€Å"Cash. † (c)Investments. â€Å"Land held as an investment. † (d)Investments. â€Å"Sinking fund. † (e)Long-term debt (adjunct account to bonds payable). Unamortized premium on bonds payable. † (f)Intangible Assets. â€Å"Copyrights. † (g)Investments. â€Å"Employees’ pension fund,† with subcaptions of â€Å"Cash† and â€Å"Securities† if desired. (Assumes that the company still owns these assets. ) (h)Shareholders’ Equity. â€Å"Premium on capital stock† or â€Å"Addition al paid-in capital. † (i)Investments. Nature of investments should be given together with parenthetical information as follows: â€Å"pledged to secure loans payable to banks. † 16. (a)Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable should be deducted from accounts receivable in current assets. b)Merchandise held on consignment should not appear on the consignee’s balance sheet except possibly as a note to the financial statements. (c)Advances received on sales contract are normally a current liability and should be shown as such in the balance sheet. You read "Intermediate Accounting 14th Chapter 5" in category "Essay examples" (d)Cash surrender value of life insurance should be shown as a long-term investment. (e)Land should be reported in property, plant, and equipment unless held for investment. (f)Merchandise out on consignment should be shown among current assets under the heading of inventories. (g)Franchises should be itemized in a section for intangible asset s. h)Accumulated depreciation of plant and equipment should be deducted from the plant and equipment accounts. (i)Materials in transit should not be shown on the balance sheet of the buyer, if purchased f. o. b. destination. 17. (a)Trade accounts receivable should be stated at their estimated amount collectible, often referred to as net realizable value. The method most generally followed is to deduct from the total accounts receivable the amount of the allowance for doubtful accounts. (b)Land is generally stated in the balance sheet at cost. (c)Inventories are generally stated at the lower of cost or market. d)Trading securities (consisting of common stock of other companies) are stated at fair value. (e)Prepaid expenses should be stated at cost less the amount apportioned to and written off over the previous accounting periods. 18. Assets are defined as probable future economic benefits obtained or controlled by a particular entity as a result of past transactions or events. If a building is leased under a capital lease, the future economic benefits of using the building are controlled by the lessee (tenant) as the result of a past event (the signing of a lease agreement). 19. Battle is incorrect. Retained earnings is a source of assets, but is not an asset itself. For example, even though the funds obtained from issuing a note payable are invested in the business, the note payable is not reported as an asset. It is a source of assets, but it is reported as a liability because the company has an obligation to repay the note in the future. Similarly, even though the earnings are invested in the business, retained earnings is not reported as an asset. It is reported as part of shareholders’ equity because it is, in effect, an investment by owners which increases the ownership interest in the assets of an entity. 20. The notes should appear as long-term liabilities with full disclosure as to their terms. Each year, as the profit is determined, notes of an amount equal to two-thirds of the year’s profits should be transferred from the long-term liabilities to current liabilities until all of the notes have been liquidated. 21. The purpose of a statement of cash flows is to provide relevant information about the cash receipts and cash payments of an enterprise during a period. It differs from the balance sheet and the income statement in that it reports the sources and uses of cash by operating, investing, and financing activity classifications. While the income statement and the balance sheet are accrual basis statements, the statement of cash flows is a cash basis statement—noncash items are omitted. 22. The difference between these two amounts may be due to increases in current assets (e. g. , an increase in accounts receivable from a sale on account would result in an increase in revenue and net income but have no effect yet on cash). Similarly a cash payment that results in a decrease in an existing current liability (e. g. , accounts payable would decrease cash provided by operations without affecting net income). 3. The difference between these two amounts could be due to noncash charges that appear in the income statement. Examples of noncash charges are depreciation, depletion, and amortization of intangibles. Expenses recorded but unpaid (e. g. , increase in accounts payable) and collection of previously recorded sales on credit (i. e. , now decreasing accounts receivable) also would cause cash provided by o perating activities to exceed net income. 24. Operating activities involve the cash effects of transactions that enter into the determination of net income. Investing activities include making and collecting loans and acquiring and disposing of debt and equity instruments; property, plant, and equipment and intangibles. Financing activities involve liability and owners’ equity items and include obtaining capital from owners and providing them with a return on (dividends) and a return of their investment and borrowing money from creditors and repaying the amounts borrowed. 25. (a)Net income is adjusted downward by deducting $5,000 from $90,000 and reporting cash provided by operating activities as $85,000. (b)The issuance of the preferred stock is a financing activity. The issuance is reported as follows: Cash flows from financing activities Issuance of preferred stock| $1,150,000| (c)| Net income is adjusted as follows:| | | Cash flows from operating activities| | | Net income| $90,000| | Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:| | | Depreciation expense| 14,000| | Premium amortization| (5,000)| | Net cash provided by operating activities| $99,000| (d)The increase of $20,000 reflects an investing activity. The increase in Land is reported as follows: Cash flows from investing activities: Investment in Land| $(20,000)| 26. The company appears to have good liquidity and reasonable financial flexibility. Its current cash debt coverage ratio is 1. 20, which indicates that it can pay off its current liabilities in a given year from its operation. In addition its cash debt coverage ratio is also good at . 80 which indicates it can pay off approximately 80% of its debt out of current operations 27. Free cash flow = $860,000 – $75,000 – $30,000 = $755,000. 28. Free cash flow is net cash provided by operating activities less capital expenditures and dividends. The purpose of free cash flow analysis is to determine the amount of discretionary cash flow a company has for purchasing additional investments, retiring its debt, purchasing treasury stock, or simply adding to its liquidity and financial flexibility. 29. Some of the techniques of disclosure for the balance sheet are: (a)Parenthetical explanations. (b)Notes to the financial statements. (c)Cross references and contra items. (d)Supporting schedules. 30. A note entitled â€Å"Summary of Significant Accounting Policies† would indicate the basic accounting principles used by that enterprise. This note should be very useful from a comparative standpoint, since it should be easy to determine whether the company uses the same accounting policies as other companies in the same industry. 31. General debt obligations, lease contracts, pension arrangements and stock option plans are four items for which disclosure is mandatory in the financial statements. The reason for disclosing these contractual situations is that these commitments are of a long-term nature, are often significant in amount, and are very important to the company’s well-being. 32. The profession has recommended that the use of the word â€Å"surplus† be discontinued in balance sheet presentations of owners’ equity. This term has a connotation outside accounting that is quite different from its meaning in the accounts or in the balance sheet. The use of the terms capital surplus, paid-in surplus, and earned surplus is confusing to the non-accountant and leads to misinterpretation. Brief Exercise 1. Current assets| | | Cash| | $ 30,000| Accounts receivable| $110,000| | Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts| 8,000| 102,000| Inventory| | 290,000| Prepaid insurance| | 9,500| Total current assets| | $431,500| Exercise (a)If the investment in preferred stock is readily marketable and held primarily for sale in the near term to generate income on short-term price differences, then the account should appear as a current asset and be included with trading investments. If, on the other hand, the preferred stock is not a trading security, it should be classified as available-for-sale. Available for sale securities are classified as current or non-current depending upon the circumstances. (b)If the company accounts for the treasury stock on the cost basis, the account should properly be shown as a reduction of total shareholders’ equity. c)Shareholders’ equity. (d)Current liability. (e)Property, plant, and equipment (as a deduction). (f)If an asset in process of construction is being constructed for another party, it is properly classified as an inventory account in the current asset section. This account will be shown net of any billings on the contract. On the other hand, if the asset is being constructed for the use of this particular company, it should be classified as a separate item in the property, plant, and equipment section. (g)Current asset. (h)Current liability. (i)Retained earnings. j)Current asset. (k)Current liability. 4. GULISTAN INC. | Balance Sheet| December 31, 20XX| Assets| Current assets| | | | Cash| $XXX| | | Less: Cash restricted for plant expansion| XXX| $XXX| | Accounts receivable| XXX| | | Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts| XXX| XXX| | Notes receivable| | XXX| | Receivables—officers| | XXX| | Inventories| | | | Finished goods| XXX| | | Work in process| XXX| | | Raw materials| XXX| XXX| | Total current assets| | | $XXX| | | | | Long-term investments| | | | Preferred stock investments| | XXX| | Land held for future plant site| | XXX| | Cash restricted for plant expansion| | XXX| | Total long-term investments| | | XXX| | | | | Property, plant, and equipment| | | | Buildings| | XXX| | Less: Accum. depreciation— buildings| | XXX| XXX| | | | | Intangible assets| | | | Copyrights| | | XXX| Total assets| | | $XXX| Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity| Current liabilities| | | | | Salaries and wages payable| | $XXX| | | Notes payable, short-term| | XXX| | | Unearned subscriptions revenue| | XXX| | | Unearned rent revenue| | XXX| | | Total current liabilities| | | | $XXX| | | | | | Long-term debt| | | | | Bonds payable, due in four years| | | $XXX| | Less: Discount on bonds payable| | | (XXX)| XXX| Total liabilities| | | | XXX| | | | | | Stockholders’ equity| | | | | Capital stock:| | | | | Common stock| | XXX| | | Additional paid-in capital:| | | | | Paid in capital in excess of par—common stock| | XXX| | | Total paid-in capital| | | XXX| | Retained earnings| | | XXX| | Total paid-in capital and retained earnings| | | XXX| | Less: Treasury stock, at cost| | | (XXX)| | Total stockholders’ equity| | | | XXX| Total liabilities and stockholders’ quity| | | | $XXX| 7. Current assets| | | | Cash| | $ 92,000*| | Less: Cash restricted for plant expansion| | 50,000| $ 42,000| Equity investments (fair value) (cost, $31,000)| | | 29,000| Accounts receivable (of which $50,000 is pledged as collateral on a bank loan)| | 161,000| | Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts| | 12,000| 149,000| Interest receivable [($40,000 X 6%) X 8/12]| | | 1,600| Inventory (lower-of-cost ( determined using LIFO)-or-market)| | | | Finished goods| | 52,000| | Work-in-process| | 34,000| | Raw materials| | 187,000| 273,000| Total current assets| | | $494,600| 8. a. Dividends payable of $1,900,000 will be reported as a current liability [(1,000,000 – 50,000) X $2. 00] b. Bonds payable of $25,000,000 and interest payable of $2,500,000 ($100,000,000 X 10% X 3/12) will be reported as a current liability. Bonds payable of $75,000,000 will be reported as a long-term liability. c. Customer advances of $17,000,000 will be reported as a current liability ($12,000,000 + $30,000,000 – $25,000,000). 12. VIVALDI CORPORATION| Balance Sheet| December 31, 2012| Assets| Current assets| | | | Cash| | $197,000| | Debt investments| | 153,000| | Accounts receivable| $435,000| | | Less: Allowance for doubtfulaccounts| 25,000| 410,000| | Inventory| | 597,000| | Total current assets| | | $1,357,000| | | | | Long-term investments| | | | Debt investments| | 299,000| | Equity investments| | 277,000| | Total long-term investments| | | 576,000| | | | | Property, plant, and equipment| | | | Land| | 260,000| | Buildings| 1,040,000| | | Less: Accum. depreciation| 352,000| 688,000| | Equipment| 600,000| | | Less: Accum. epreciation| 60,000| 540,000| | Total property, plant, and equipment| | | 1,488,000| | | | | Intangible assets| | | | Franchises| | 160,000| | Patents| | 195,000| | Total intangible assets| | | 355,000| Total assets| | | $3,776,000| Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity| Current liabilities| | | | Accounts payable| | $ 455,000| | Notes payable (short-term)| | 90,000| | Dividends payable| | 136,000| | Accrued liabilities| | 96,000| | To tal current liabilities| | | $ 777,000| | | | | Long-term debt| | | | Bonds payable| | 1,000,000| | Notes payable (long-term)| | 900,000| | Total long-term liabilities| | | 1,900,000| Total liabilities| | | 2,677,000| | | | | Stockholders’ equity| | | | Paid-in capital| | | | Common stock ($5 par)| $1,000,000| | | Paid-in capital in excess of par| 80,000| 1,080,000| | Retained earnings*| | 210,000| | Total paid-in capital and retained earnings| | 1,290,000| | Less: Treasury stock| | 191,000| | Total stockholders’ equity| | | 1,099,000| Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity| | | $3,776,000| | | Sales| | $7,900,000| Investment revenue| | 63,000| Extraordinary gain| | 80,000| Cost of goods sold| | (4,800,000)| Selling expenses| | (2,000,000)| Administrative expenses| | (900,000)| Interest expense| | (211,000)| Net income| | $ 132,000| | | | Beginning retained earnings| | $ 78,000| Net income| | 132,000| Ending retained earnings| | $ 210,000| Or ending retained earnings can be computed as follows: Total stockholders’ equity| | $1,099,000| Add:Treasury s tock| | 191,000| Less: Paid-in capital| | 1,080,000| Ending retained earnings| | $ 210,000| How to cite Intermediate Accounting 14th Chapter 5, Essay examples

Thursday, December 5, 2019

Communication and Basic Interpersonal Needs free essay sample

In, today society we communicate in several ways through verbal communication, text or email, listening and even body language. I would say our most common communication is demonstrated through body language. Interpersonal communication and conflicts tend to happen in our daily lives with emotional connections to anyone we would meet. Everyone has point’s in time that a conflict of interest, points of view are difference in the way one should behave. According to K.Sole, interpersonal communication is the process of exchanging messages, usually between two people, to create and share meaning. In the movie â€Å"Hitch† one is shown that    through nonverbal communication, how the characters listen to themselves as well as one another and through the changing perceptions of the characters. At the beginning of the movie we are introduced to Alex Hitchens who is considered the date doctor; he gives a narrative on how we as women may say one thing with our mouth but in our head and hearts we want the guy to try harder to make a stronger connection in the relationship . We will write a custom essay sample on Communication and Basic Interpersonal Needs or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page In the first examples of the opposite sex interactions we see three different men who have tried to get the interest of three different women but have failed on their own. Hitch, teaches the men how to have confidence, play to their characteristics, and to really listen to what the women are really saying with their objections and to go beyond the normal to sweep you love interest off her feet. The main interpersonal conflict in the movie Hitch is the miscommunication and misunderstanding between the characters and their relationships: Sarah and Alex and Allegra and Albert. In the beginning Hitch states how sixty percent of all our communication is told through our body language along with how communication is the most important aspect of any relationship and how communication builds the relationship or how the of lack of communication can destroy the relationship. Hitch demonstrates how relationships can be complicated, but by expanding our knowledge and learning of new skills. We can improve our lives with interpersonal relationships. There are three basic interpersonal needs that are satisfied through interactions with others. These needs are becoming involved with others, affection or ,holding emotions for a person, and having control to influence others. These needs can be fulfilled through a complementary or symmetrical relationship. A complementary relationship, is a relationship between people who are unequal in status or authority and a symmetrical relationship are relationship where the participants are equal to each other, or are highly similar, and the differences in communication people tend to develop interpersonal conflicts. Romantic relationships have aspects of both relationship styles. Throughout the movie interpersonal conflict is demonstrated within the relationships of Alex and Sarah. In the movie their relationship takes a turn for the end when Sarah discovers that he is the so-called date doctor and whom she believes is responsible for her best friend being dumped. After, that she sets out to expose him which causes some friction in his most recent clients Alberts relationship with Allegra. Sarah felt that Hitch was giving the men on advice how to hide their real intentions when dating the women only to falsely cause the women to fall in love with men. The conflict continues when Hitch tries to explain exactly what he does is only prepare the men on how to communicate effectively with the opposite sex. I do believe if Sarah and Hitch would have only listened to one another that a great deal of their conflict could have been avoided. If you are going to be in a relationship you need to be prepared to communicate your thoughts and feelings to have any successful relationship.

Thursday, November 28, 2019

The Term “Art” Essay Sample Essay Example

The Term â€Å"Art† Essay Sample Paper The subject matter of this essay is based on the original article The Trouble with (the term) Art written by Carolyn Dean (professor of History of Art and Visual Culture at the University of California) and published in the Art Journal, Vol. 65, no. 2 (summer 2006), pp 25-32. As the title indicates, the theme of that article and of this essay should be â€Å"art† or, perhaps, more precisely the concept of â€Å"art† itself â€Å"for what art seems to be at the very heart of the issue† (Carolyne Dean). The author of the article emphasizes the fact that the term â€Å"art† has been used by many scholars in various disciplines with different connotations. Carolyn Dean focuses on the â€Å"so-called AOA fields (Africa, Oceania, America)†, that is on cultures often categorized as â€Å"primitive†. The scholars working in these fields often incorrectly describe the products of these cultures as being â€Å"primitive art†, by contrasting them with what is commonly seen as West-European art. What is the  major question  in Deans article? The major question points to the error of using the term â€Å"art† simply for anything that is touched, moved, used or produced by mankind anywhere and at any time on the planet. The greatest problem is that we keep calling things â€Å"art† without regard to the objects original purpose as given to them by those indigenous people who used or fabricated them in the first place. It is a fact, that in the many cultures whose products we call â€Å"primitive art,† there has been no concept of â€Å"art† in the contemporary West-European understanding of this word. Certainly, there have been cultures that have developed a different understanding and appreciation of objects. Though, in many cases, their primal role and worthiness stay hidden in the history because there is no one left to be asked if there was an aesthetic evaluation present or if there was any concept of â€Å"art† at all. So, when we find the remains of an older culture, we simply appl y our â€Å"Western† values and use our â€Å"Western† points of views. Instead, we should try to look at it through the eyes of the culture we are trying to study, on the basis of our findings. Unfortunately, we tend to have a commercial approach to it: how valuable is this piece of â€Å"primitive art†?. Even worse, it is not only the bygone cultures that we approach in this manner but also those cultures we have discovered in the colonized territories since the late Middle-Ages. We will write a custom essay sample on The Term â€Å"Art† Essay Sample specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on The Term â€Å"Art† Essay Sample specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on The Term â€Å"Art† Essay Sample specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Can we ever possibly undo the damage that has already been done to all these cultures? What kind of action should be taken when a culture with a concept of â€Å"art† and one without such a concept meet? Should this concept be introduced to the culture where such a concept is missing? Should it be implanted at all costs? What if there is a reason why the concept of â€Å"art† has not jet evolved in that culture or, perhaps, what if we do or did not recognize it has already been there? Then the remains of cultures which had known the concept of â€Å"art† may in a way be called â€Å"art†. On the other hand, there may have been cultures that never developed aesthetic feelings, then nothing these cultures would have left behind could be â€Å"art†. However, it is not for us to decide on such a thing and therefore we simply apply our concept of â€Å"art† to what may or may not be â€Å"art†. Has mankind learned from any of its mistakes? â€Å"This is art!† I have always had a problem with this term and much more trouble with its interpretation. It usually leads me to an inner dispute where, on the one hand, there stands subjective me designating everything that has been adapted and created by man as â€Å"art†, and, on the other hand there is an objective me recognizing as â€Å"art† only a few things accepted as â€Å"art† collectively by the whole human society. Here is a short demonstration: The subjective me says: When I draw a sketch, paint a picture, take a photograph, using a random melody, prepare a meal, walk, dream, etc., I consider myself it producing or even being an object of â€Å"art†. Why shouldnt everything I say and the way I say it be approached as â€Å"art?† Everybody is unique! We all are in a way a form of â€Å"art† and there are many aesthetic distinctions between all of us to evaluate our products and ourselves. The objective me replies: We a re unique individuals but we all cant live on producing â€Å"art†, unless we would call â€Å"art† all human activity. Nonetheless, things like cars, customer goods and all the articles of mass production should not be called â€Å"art†. Surely, there is the design of these products, which can be marked as â€Å"art†. This dialogue could go on forever as well as might the one in the real world. Thanks for reading this article I found out that there is a real discussion taking place. I have even thought about joining the discussion myself and, at any rate, I am really looking forward to learning the outcome. Carolyn Dean tries to resume the discussions on the subject by presenting previous attempts to find solutions and definitions for the term â€Å"art†. She also provokes those in the field to replace the so much hated term â€Å"primitive art†. This term has some supporters among those using it. There were more and less courageous attempts throughout modern history to arouse debates on this very burning issue – I personally like the phrase Adrian Gerbrands used in 1957 during one of the first discussions on this subject; back then he called it â€Å"the problem of the name†. Deans article may encourage some art historians, anthropologists, and other related scholars to continue in the debate and eventually agree on the terminology to be used. Nevertheless, that stays an open question.

Monday, November 25, 2019

Cultural Anthropology Research Proposal Essay Example

Cultural Anthropology Research Proposal Essay Example Cultural Anthropology Research Proposal Essay Cultural Anthropology Research Proposal Essay Essay Topic: Maus Cultural anthropology is the science of the culture as the complex of material objects, ideas, values, beliefs, and models of behavior in all its forms and all the historical stages of its development. In the bright meaning, cultural anthropology is the science which studies the action of the human being and the results of his activity. As a separate independent discipline, cultural anthropology originated in the USA in the second half of the 19th century. The brightest thinkers of cultural anthropology are Franz Boas, Ruth Benedict, Marcel Mauss, Lucien Levy-Bruhl, Claude Levi-Strauss, etc. It is evident that there is an excellent relation between cultural anthropology and ethnology because both sciences study the human activity through the long run of history. In fact, ethnology is a narrower science which dwells on the language, folklore, material art and probably nothing more. Cultural anthropology has a more profound approach towards the issue because it studies nations and the whole humanity as a single unity. It compares the worldview, material and moral values, factors which influence the human diversity on the planet, etc. Anthropology studies the rational thought so that it becomes connected with psychology, philosophy, and sociology. Cultural anthropology can be called a fundamental discipline without exaggeration because it touches upon the most critical aspects of the human life and all the forms of the human existence. Naturally, such events as Great Geographic Discoveries, Industrial Revolution, World Wars, etc. have caused severe impact on the human mind and behavior and the results of the human activity. No wonder, the science is still quite relevant and generates new and new approaches and methods of the research of the problematic fundamental issues. Cultural anthropology is a complicated and broad issue for the research, but the student can focus on the selected problems which require additional research. The young person can generate an exciting and thought-provoking project which can answer the disturbing questions related to cultural anthropology and the principles of its functioning. The student has the opportunity to observe the selected problem in detail, prove to the professor its relevance, importance, and usefulness for the discipline. Apparently, creativity is always respected so one has the chance to complete a persuasive research proposal which will undoubtedly be accepted by the professor. If writing is difficult, the student can follow the valuable piece of advice borrowed from a free sample research proposal on cultural anthropology written by the experienced writer. The young professional, who requires the hint for writing a well-structured and formatted text, can find the quality solution to his trouble in a free example research proposal on cultural anthropology found on the Internet.

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Clinical Research Article for Publication in Journal - 1

Clinical Research for Publication in Journal - Article Example Based on the findings, the study discusses and creates a connection between compliance, schizophrenia and the existing effects on male recovery process. Furthermore, the research seeks to establish routing causes of non-compliance in the attempt to create the connection. In the field of medicine, compliance also known as capacitance, adherence, or Concordance is the degree and willingness to which a patient suitably follows medical prescriptions from health professionals. Ordinarily, it refers to drug compliance, but the vast medical field can also attribute it to other situations such as medical equipment use, self-directed training, self care or psychological sessions (Fadem, 2014, p. 106). Notably, compliance is a tricky situation affected by both the patient and the health-care giver. Arguably, a positive physician-patient rapport is the most imperative factor in re-shaping compliance; nonetheless the soaring cost of prescription medication also contributes a major role (McEvoy, 2006, p. 16). In many circumstances, compliance gets confused with concordance; however, the latter remains the course by which a healthcare provider and patient make decisions together regarding a treatment process. Chief barriers to conformity include poor health liter acy, ethnicity, age difference, the complexity of contemporary medication regimens, course completion, and lack of conception to treatment benefits. Concurrently, cases of non-discussed percussions, poor communication and high cost of prescription medicine greatly affect compliance. Undeniably, efforts to positively transform compliance aims at simplifying prescription packaging, initiating effective medication reminders, improving patient instruction, and reducing the number of simultaneous medications. Globally, non-compliance is a foremost impediment to the successful delivery of

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Wal-Mart Finance Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Wal-Mart Finance - Essay Example In US, Wal-Mart operates over 4,300 stores and also operates the Sam’s Club chain. Wal-Mart Stores US have different subsidiaries namely Wal-Mart Discount Stores in 692 locations, Wal-Mart Supercentres in 2933 locations, Wal-Mart Neighborhood Markets in 183 locations, SAM’s CLUB in 609 locations and small format stores. In Argentina, Wal-Mart has 4 subsidiaries with 64 retail chain units. Wal-Mart has 10 subsidiaries in Brazil with 484 units in their retail chain. Wal-Mart Canada has 2 subsidiaries with 325 units of retail outlets. In Chile, there are 285 units in their retail chain under 6 subsidiaries. In China Wal-Mart have 6 subsidiaries under which there are 338 units. In Costa Rica Wal-Mart have 4 subsidiaries with a retail chain of 183 units. Under Mexico y Centroamerica there are 3 subsidiaries also performs business in El Salvador with 78 retail chain units. In Germany, Wal-Mart had 85 stores which were taken over by Metro and now Wal-Mart has no operational ac tivities in Germany. (Wal-Mart abandons German venture) In India Wal-Mart have 6 retail chain units under the subsidiary called as Best Price. Mexico y Centroamerica also operates at Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua with 177 units, 58 units and 62 units of retail outlets under them. In Mexico Wal-Mart have 1789 retail outlets under 6 subsidiary of Walmart de Mexico y Centroamerica. ... idiaries of Wal-Mart in the various nations mentioned above were under taken by Wal-Mart with the help of acquisitions, some of them are Asda, the Seiyu Ltd., Seiyu Group, etc. (International Operations) For Wal-Mart if we divide the geographic region of operation as International and US market. Then it will be evident that, the Net Sales value of Wal-Mart in US exceeded over $260 billion and 3,804 retail units for the year of 2010-11. The operating income also increased by 3.1% to $20 billion (approx). While the consolidated net sales figure of Wal-Mart in the 15 countries they are operating net sales value amounted to $109 billion and 4,557 retail units for the year 2010-11. The net sales also grew by 12% and the operating income increased by $5.6 billion. The net sales value of Sam’s Club was $49 billion and 609 retail units for the year 2010-11. The increase in net sales was 3.5% over the previous year. (Wal-Mart 2011 Annual Report, 4-9) b) Wal-Mart’s Foreign Exchan ge (FX) Risk Management Policy Is centralized or decentralized? A firm opts to take risk for maximizing their profit on their areas of unique expertise. While, a firm with non-financial activities tries to minimize their foreign exchange risk and interest rate risk (Wallace, 2). Wal-Mart as a retail management chain operates in US and 15 other countries. As per the Foreign Currency Translation policy of Wal-Mart â€Å"The assets and liabilities of all foreign subsidiaries are translated using exchange rates at the balance sheet date. The income statements of foreign subsidiaries are translated using average exchange rates. Related translation adjustments are recorded as a component of other accumulated comprehensive income.† (Reimer, 774) This shows that all the financial transaction systems are

Monday, November 18, 2019

Essay Question Rewrite Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Essay Question Rewrite - Assignment Example Variances in connotations make new descriptive terminology and expressions assume new meanings. The meanings of words may also aimlessly â€Å"drift†, their functions having different value or implications with time. Furthermore, colloquial phrases may be regrouped to create new and unpredictable meanings that are different from the initial purpose of the phrase based on word grouping. 2. The Theme â€Å"Today’s Dialect is Tomorrow’s Language† runs through the text (p.92). McWhorter argues this as a kind of Mantra for the linguistic discussion: â€Å"Dialect is all there is.† Using McWhorter’s analysis of the eight languages of the Chinese Versus eight Chinese dialects, support your understanding of this theme in Chapter 2. McWhorter used the theme of â€Å"Today’s Dialect is Tomorrow’s Language† to create the impression that language’s true understanding is obtained through the analysis of different dialects that are broadly considered as language because it is their direction that determine what will eventually be considered as proper usage over time. Various language branches with distance themselves become languages over time. 3. The author describes how language proceeds in myriad directions. Dialects form by migration, communication and education. How would you relate examples of the family tree of making stew in discussing how language change and mixing is inherent according to the author (p. 93-94). Chapter 3 In order to understand McWhorter’s ideas on the mixing and change of language, one has to analyze the way he compares language to cross pollination. Change of language is natural as various dialects are formed by groups of people change and move language to suit their specific needs in a way that complies with the â€Å"family tree† metaphor. Furthermore, the author notes that as speakers of various dialects migrate and communicate with other

Friday, November 15, 2019

Effects of the Environment on Exxon Mobil Corporation

Effects of the Environment on Exxon Mobil Corporation Oil and gas industry has already become one of the leading industries in the world. The company that has significant role and makes vast amount of profit from energy industry is Exxon Mobil Corporation. History. Exxon Mobil Corporation or also known as Exxon Mobil is an American international petroleum and natural gas company, which was created in 1999. Company has an extensive history for about 125 years. It has had history since 1870, the year when John D. Rockefeller and his partners established Standard Oil Company. This company was very successful for thirty years and by the year 1878, it was controlling 95% of US the oil industry (Wikipedia, Exxon Mobil, 2010). Nevertheless, with public protest at a culmination in 1911, the Supreme Court of the United States decided to divide one big company into 34 small companies. Two of these companies were Jersey Standard and Socony, which finally became Exxon and Mobil. In 1998, these companies signed an agreement, which cost $73.7 billion , in order to merge and create a new company called Exxon Mobil Corporation. The merger was completed on November 30, 1999 and this corporation became the largest company on the planet (Wikinvest, Stock-XOM, 2010) Products. Exxon Mobil produces fuels, lubricants and petrochemicals worldwide. Company operates in three main categories such as upstream, downstream and chemicals. Upstream operations are important part of a company, which are involved in the exploration along with production of oil and natural gas. Exxon Mobils upstream sector earned $17 billion in 2009, which means 88.1% of 2009 earnings (Exxon Mobil, Annual report, 2009 ) Downstream sector is involved in the refining as well as marketing of oil and natural gas. It makes 9.3% of profit with $1.8 billion in 2009 year. (Exxon Mobil, Annual report, 2009) Chemicals division uses oil to produce and sell commodity petrochemicals and earned $2.3 billion, which made 11.9% of profit in 2009. (Exxon Mobil, Annual report, 2009 ) Exxon Mobil Corporation operates with three brands such as Exxon, Esso and Mobil. All these brands are well known around the world, because there are 28,000 Exxons and Essos service stations in 118 countries. As for Mobil brand, it can be example of motor oil Mobil 1, which is also popular in Uzbekistan. (Corporate Watch, 2008) Market share. According to Global 2000 list of Forbes, the company has been ranked #4 between largest public companies in the world (Forbes, 2010). In addition, it is #1 in oil and gas industry in United States, which produces about 3% of the worlds oil and 2% of the world energy sources(Exxon Mobil, 2010). Exxon Mobils net income was $19.3 billion and its total revenue was $310.58 billion in 2009 (Exxon Mobil, Annual report, p 2009). In contrast with previous years it is much less, as in 2008 the net income of company was $45.2 billion and total revenue exceeded $459.6 billion (Exxon Mobil, Annual report, p 2009). It can be said that economic crisis influenced companys profit significantly, but in spite of this challenges, company continuing working hard and improving the quality of its products. The results of hard work can be seen from the average of daily production that was 170 thousand barrels of oil and 149 million cubic feet of sales gas in 2009 (Exxon Mobil, Annual report, p 2009). In third quarter of 2010, Exxon Mobil reported that earnings during quarter were $7,350 million, up 55% in comparison with the third quarter in 2009 (Exxon Mobil, 3rd quarter report, p 2010). Company size. The size of the company can be seen from the number of employees and sectors around the world. Exxon Mobil has approximately 80,700 employees in 77 countries (Exxon Mobil, Annual report, 2010) and also it has 15 operating divisions such as: ExxonMobil Exploration Company ExxonMobil Development Company ExxonMobil Production Company ExxonMobil Gas and Power Marketing Company ExxonMobil Upstream Research Company ExxonMobil Refining and Supply Company SeaRiver Maritime ExxonMobil Fuels Marketing Company ExxonMobil Lubricants Specialties Company ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company ExxonMobil Chemical Company ExxonMobil Information Technology Global Real Estate and Facilities Global Procurement Business Support Centers (Wikipedia, Exxon Mobil, 2010) Company Location. The main center of operations of the company is located at Irving in Texas. The upstream and chemical divisions of Exxon Mobil are at Houston in Texas, while the downstream division is placed in Fairfax in Virginia (Exxon Mobil, 2010). Effect of Economic Environment Economic growth. Economic growth is one the main factors that can affect companys revenue and expenditure. Exxon Mobil Corporation is very influenced by economic conditions in United States. In the third quarter of 2010, economic conditions in USA were slightly high than it was in the second quarter. The Gross Domestic Product rate expended at 2.5 percent and this lead to increasing of product demand of Exxon Mobil (Trading Economics, 2010). Due to higher demand for oil, earnings of company in this district were $7.4 billion, up 55% from third quarter of 2009 (Exxon Mobil Financial and Operating Report, 2009). Income level of population. Population is very important aspect of every industry and its income level have an effect on product prices. For instance, median income of population in the United States for 2009 year was $49,777 (U.S. Census Bureau, 2010) and this changed prices for crude oil. In 2009, price for per barrel of oil was about $45.88 (Oil Prices, 2010). However, due to significant changes in economy in 2010 year crude oil price averaged roughly $78 per barrel (Oil prices, 2010) Interest rate. The standard interest rate in the United States was 0.25 percent for 2010 and rate decisions were divided between the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve and the Federal Open Market Committee (Trading economics, 2010). For Exxon Mobil Corporation global oil demand is expected to increase by almost 35% until 2030, which will make huge profits for the company (Exxon Mobil, 2010) 2 Inflation. Inflation rate is also one of the factors that can actively have an effect on product prices. The last report about inflation rate in United States was made in October of 2010 and the rate was 1.2 percent (Trading Economics, 2010). As it can be seen from the table above, the inflation rate is decreasing in United States in 2010 year. These fluctuations can slightly change the price for gasoline. As an example we can look into the history, during The First World War price for gasoline was $0.25 per gallon (Trading Economics, 2010). However, due to inflation rate in 2001 the price of gasoline has averaged about $2.00 per gallon in inflation-adjusted dollars over the last 80 years (Exxon Mobil, 2009). As inflation rate will increasing in the future and also prices for energy will increase, too. 3 Fiscal Policy. One of the governments influences to company is a fiscal policy and this factor has very big influence on companys revenue. From 2005 through 2009, Exxon Mobil Corporation taxes for United States were $63 billion. In 2009, Exxon Mobils tax rate was 47 percent and its tax expenses amounted to $81 billion around the world. It is more than four times of companys earnings. (Exxon Mobil, Taxes, 2010) 4 Exchange rates. Exchange rates help company to trade worldwide. The appreciation and depreciation of currency can be either positive or negative. It depends on economics conditions in particular country. For example, Exxon Mobils effects of exchange rate changes on cash were $520 million in 2009 (Wikinvest, Exxon, 2009). However, corporation makes limited use of currency exchange contracts, futures contracts, product forwards and swaps to mitigate the impact of changes in currency values and product prices. Effect of Industry Environment Petroleum industry. There are about 200 oil companies around the world and totally all of them produced 72.26 million barrels of oil every day in 2009 (Petro Strategies, Inc, 2010). A total product shipment of petroleum annually is about $219 billion, which confirms that the petroleum industry is one of the largest industries. (Petro Strategies, 2010) Exxon Mobil Corporation is one the six major public oil companies in the world. Its competitors are: Chevron Corporation Royal Dutch Shell British Petroleum Total S.A. ConocoPhilips Chevron. The second largest oil and gas company, behind Exxon Mobil in United States is Chevron Corporation. Chevron Corporation or Chevron was known as Standard Oil of California and was established amid the antitrust break up of John D. Rockefellers Standard Oil Company in 1911(Wikinvest, Chevron, 2010). It was included on the Seven Sister list, which was leading the world energy industry in the early 20th century. Chevron operates in 180 countries and has network of gas stations such as Chevron, Texaco and Caltex. The number of employees in 2009 year was approximately 67,000 people worldwide (Wikipedia, Chevron, 2010). In the third quarter of 2010, the earning of company was $3.77 billion, or $1.87 per share. In comparison the earnings of Chevron are two times less than earnings of Exxon Mobil in third quarter which was $7.4 billion (Wikinvest, Chevron, 2010). Royal Dutch Shell. Royal Dutch Shell or commonly known as Shell, is one of the major private sector energy companies in the world. Shell operates in renewable sources of energy including wind solar energy in more than 140 countries. In 2009, Shells profitability was effected by weak demand, high inventory levels and low margins, as a result the profit of company was $9.8 billion for full year and this result was 69% down than 2008 earnings (Wikinvest, Shell, 2010). The headquarters of company located in The Hague, Netherlands and registered offices at the Shell Centre in London, United Kingdom (Wikinvest, Shell, 2010). British Petroleum. According to Forbes Global 2000 list the BPs rank through public companies by their revenue is 10th with $16.68 billion (Forbes, 2010). BP operates in more than 80 countries and produces 3.8 million barrels of oil equivalent per day. It employed 80,300 people in 2009(BP, Annual report, 2009). The major division of BP is BP America and located in Houston, Texas. Company has six main brands such as: BP Castrol Arco Aral Am/pm Wild Bean Cafà © The headquarters of company located in London, United Kingdom (BP, 2010) Total S.A. Total S.A. or formerly known as Total Fina S.A. was formed after World War 1, when Raymond Poincarà © the French Prime Minister rejected the idea being partner with Royal Dutch Shell and gave new idea about creating new French oil company (Wikipedia, Total S.A., 2010). The total assets of company in 2009 were à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬127.8 billion and à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬8.447 billion of profit (Wikinvest, Total S.A., 2010). However, in current year Total S.A. is working very hardly. For example, in the third quarter of 2010 the companys earnings were $3.6 billion, in comparison with previous years third quarter the earnings were up 47% (Wikinvest, Total S.A., 2010). Moreover, in 2010 company is employeing over 96,000 people and operating in more than 130 countries (Wikipedia, Total S.A., 2010). For the third quarter of 2010, Totals net income was $3.6 billion, a 47% increase from the same period in 2009 (Wikinvest, Total S.A., 2010). ConocoPhilips. The ConocoPhilips also as Exxon Mobil was formed by merge of two companies such as Conoco Inc. and the Philips Petroleum Company on August 30, 2002. It works in all sectors of energy industry and also owns 20% share of Russian oil company LUKOIL (Wikinvest, ConocoPhilips, 2010). Company produces its products under the brands as Philips 66, 76 Unites States Conoco United States Jet Europe and Asia Pacific region ProJet Europe and Asia Pacific region (Wikinvest, ConocoPhilips, 2010) As of 2009, the company had of proved 8.36 billion barrels of oil equivalent reserves and its revenue was $246.182 billion. In the third quarter of 2010, the company increased its profit in contrast with previous years same period up to 8% and earned $3 billion (Wikinvest, ConocoPhilips, 2010) Competitive Advantage of Exxon Mobil Corporation Exxon Mobil Corporation has a number of advantages, which make it leader. Exxon Mobil operates in the major areas of petroleum such as North America, Europe, West Africa, the Middle East, and Asia Pacific. Exxon Mobil has the largest Exploration and Production portfolio, which makes easy to company to choose investments and political risks Exxon Mobil has technological advances which allow developing resources as tight gas, natural gas and heavy oil. (Wikinvest, Exxon, 2010) Competitive Advantage of Competitors Chevron Corporations progressive and various workforces are major advantages of company which allow surviving in marketplace.(Wikinvest, Chevron,2010) Royal Dutch Shell is a leading in industry because of its high performance and cleaner fuels. (Shell, Annual report, 2009) Providing pure ethanoic acid with low cost and approachable service for customers are the major advantages of British Petroleum Company. (BP, Annual report, 2010) Total S.A. operates with many western oil companies and has the largest reserves in Africa and the Middle East. In addition, Total S.A. is one of the few companies which have operations in Iran. (Wikinvest, Total S.A., 2010) Competitive advantage of ConocoPhilips lies on its heavier and more acidic crude oil and on providing clean product yields. (Conoco Philips, 2010) Effect of Political and Legal Environment Political Environment As Exxon Mobil operates in about 118 countries, there are many restrictions and advantages in law that can effect on company. Restrictions. Some of the countries, where Exxon Mobil Corporation has its stations, limit energy sources or can situate company in unavailable places from resources. Moreover, some countries restrict the import or export of products based on point of source. Hence, these situations make difficulties for company and this leads to declining of demand and increasing of product prices. For the solution, the company should be ready for every change in law or should avoid countries with regulations that have huge impact on business. (Exxon Mobil, Politic, 2010) Advantages. A number of advantages, which help company to work, are very little. For example, in some countries, there are low taxes for oil industry, which can lead to enormous earnings of Exxon Mobil. Also, governments can provide financial support to search alternative energy sources and nowadays, through sponsorship of The Global Climate and Energy Project at Stanford University Exxon Mobil making research into hydrogen fuel cells and fuel-producing algae. (Exxon Mobil, Politic, 2010) Legal Environment Business competition. As Exxon Mobil is a United States company there are certain countries which prohibits the doing business for U.S. companies. As an example we can take the Islamic republic of Iran. Iran has large reserves of oil, but in this country there are no Exxon Mobil stations and this leads to competitive advantage for non-U.S. companies such as Total S.A. Total S.A. is an only company from six supermajors which has stations in Iran. (Wikinvest, Total S.A., 2010) Labor Market. Exxon Mobil makes every possible comfort to its employees. As it employs more than 80,000 people, all employees are governed by companys Standards of Business Conduct. According to Standards of Business Conduct, it is strictly prohibited to discriminate employees, suppliers or customer in any area of Exxon Mobil Corporation. Furthermore, all employees are provided with a competitive package by company, which is based on the legal regulations and culture of other countries. (Exxon Mobil, Annual report, 2010) Consumer needs. Nowadays, all of suppliers are trying to produce most needed products in market they operate. In contrast, United States use much more gasoline than Europe or Asia. Hence, the producer in U.S. can produce and sell its products twice more than others. In addition, it is very difficult to satisfy consumer needs, because of high demand for premium gasoline. Nevertheless, Exxon Mobil is trying to do fuel better and employ expert chemical engineers, in order to satisfy all needs of consumers and increase demand for its products. (Exxon Mobil, Annual report, 2009) Environmental Legislation Environmental legislation is one of the most significant aspects of every oil company in the world. As oil companies use natural energy resources to produce their products, simultaneously they pollute environment. For example, fossil fuel is very efficient energy, but it is heavy polluter and also, there are number of sources which cause greenhouse gas. If company will try to make these damages less, it should increase costs for energy. So, to avoid such complex situations, every year company pays for U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. In 2009, Exxon Mobils payments for environmental liabilities were $504 million. (Exxon Mobil, Annual report, 2009) Effect of Socio-cultural environment Culture is an important part of nation or country. Every company which operates internationally should respect traditions of its partners and should avoid cultural problems which could face during its operations. One of the greatest affect of Exxon Mobil Corporation for United States nation was Exxon Valdez Oil spill in 1989. (Exxon Mobil, 2010) The Exxon Valdez tanker was built by National Steel and Shipbuilding Company in San Diego, California. It was 301 meters long, 50 meters wide and 26 meters depths. The tankers could transfer up to 1.48 million barrels of oil with the speed 30 km/h and also it was located in Alaska. However, the Exxon Valdez faced huge oil spill on 24th of March, 1989 and this event was listed as a 54th largest oil spill in history. (Wikinvest, Valdez, 2010) The tragic accident damaged much historical and archeological significance, that were important to population and also for future generation of country. However, after cleaning up oil spill, the most of places were not renewable. There was impact on health of subpopulation of Alaska. It caused many disasters such as radiation syndrome, stochastic and genetic health effects. (George Pararas-Carayannis, 2007) Exxon Valdez had also influenced on social environment of people. As oil spill began at the beginning of fishing season, it caused impact on ecosystem of city. Major of earnings for population were coming from fishing. As a result, people were threatened by the spill and they experienced high level of depression during accident. The situation with Exxon Valdez tanker was big experience for Alaskan Natives. Exxon made great effort to clean up oil spill and it cost for company $4.3 billion (George Pararas-Carayannis, 2007). Despite efforts 250,000 barrels of oil were lost. In 1992, with help of U.S. Coast Guard the spill was completed (Exxon Mobil, Valdez, 2010). Nowadays, Exxon Mobil Corporation created exact strategies to prevent oil spills. For example, he has: Modern modified tankers Drug testing programs Trainings for pilots and captains In addition, if problems occur company has thousand of employees, fast working response centers at many locations around the world. The Corporation is operating very well and making great job to prevent any social or cultural accidents which could cause many damages and loses for company. (Exxon Mobil, Corporate Citizenship report, 2010) Effect of Ethical Environment Every company should follow its ethical standards with attitude to stakeholders. Doing unethical business with them can significantly effect on companys reputation. In order to be successful Exxon Mobil Corporation has its Code of Ethics, which help to work with stakeholders. Exxon Mobils stakeholders are: Government Community Shareholders Customers Employees Government. Exxon Mobil has exploration and production operations in 39 countries. Its unethical attitude to government can be shown with pursuing the countrys laws and regulations. As Exxon Mobil is one of the main polluters of environment, also its unethical approach to government can be environmental issues. However, Exxon Mobil has specific strategies to avoid unethical business. For instance, we can take the carbon capture and storage. In April 2009, company signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Australian government and become member of the Global Carbon Capture and Storage Institute. It means that company values the Australian governments worries about environment and wants to continue partnership with Australia. (Exxon Mobil, Stakeholders, 2010) Community. Unethical behavior against the community can be displayed in delivering irrelevant information about operations of company. Companies should avoid losing trust of community. As Exxon Mobil Corporation understands the role of community and every year it organizes sessions for communities, NGOs, government officials, in order to provide better understanding about companys operations and investments. (Exxon Mobil, Stakeholders, 2010) Shareholders. People who did some investment into company are shareholders. In my opinion, unethical decision alongside shareholders could lead to losing of money. Therefore, it would be better constantly informing investors about companys operations. In 2009, Exxon Mobil held 40 meetings with institutional investors and investment groups to discuss political contributions, companys risks and other issues which are connected with Exxon Mobil Corporation. (Exxon Mobil, Stakeholders, 2010) Customers. Millions of customers purchase fuels at Exxon Mobils stations everyday. Customer and ethics in oil industry are connected with customers demand for quality of fuels and also with its price. If company sells premium fuels which worth its price, customers needs will be satisfied and which can lead to good profit and high demand. In addition, to understand the future demand of customer, Exxon Mobil is creating a line of advanced oils and greases that will improve productivity and promote longer equipment life. (Exxon Mobil, Stakeholders, 2010) Employees. Bad work conditions, violation and low salary can be listed as an example of unethical behavior against employees. However, for company which violates to its employees this can lead to many problems such as job strikes, losing employees. Avoiding such problems, Exxon Mobil has its Standards of Business Conduct. According to standards, company should provide good condition for employees and also employees should be in ethical behavior into their activities and laws of corporation. Moreover, company annually requires employees to read Standards of Business Conduct and provides detailed trainings about ethics policy to all employees. (Exxon Mobil, Stakeholders, 2010) Effect of Technological Environment Being up-to-date with technology helps every business in many ways. As for oil and gas industry technological advancements lead to finding new sources which are located in very challenging environments such as Arctic regions, deepwater, heavy oil sands. Exxon Mobil Corporation has established fundamental research to enlarge advantaged technologies for all its businesses. Upstream technology. Exxon Mobil has the latest version of 3-D technology. To find remaining hydrocarbon reserves Exxon Mobil uses advances in 3-D seismic imaging, which provides more accurate representations of structure in complex areas. As a result, with the help of seismic mapping employees of company could see exact images of land structure and they would be able to reduce risk in exploration and production operations. In the future, Exxon Mobil is going to set new technology called Controlled Freeze Zone (CFZ) which has a prospective to permit economic development of gas resources challenged by carbon dioxide (CO2) and hydrogen sulfide (H2C). (Exxon Mobil, Annual report, 2009) Downstream technology. As diesel demand is projected to increase from 2009 to 2030 worldwide, Exxon Mobil Corporation is working with new technologies which are aimed to improve the flexibility of refinery and which can to response to rapidly increase of product demand. (Exxon Mobil, Annual report, 2009) Chemical technology. The developing in chemical technology gives great opportunity for a competitive advantage of Exxon Mobil. The company thoroughly improves using advanced processes and catalyst technologies to give efficient energy and increased asset utilization. (Exxon Mobil, Annual report, 2009) Moreover, Exxon Mobil is a partner with Apple Company and on November of 2010, Exxon Mobil introduced Exxon Mobil Fuel Finder iPhone and iPod touch applications which helps to drivers worldwide to find locations of Exxon or Esso stations. In the future, it would be better for Exxon Mobil constantly update its technologies (Exxon Mobil, 2010). For example, it can replace its 3-D seismic imaging to 4-D, as it was said that Exxon Mobil uses 3-D seismic imaging in order to get images of land structure.

Wednesday, November 13, 2019

juveniles and the death penalty :: essays research papers

The American Revolution: Revolutionary or Not? In determining whether or not the American Revolution was a true revolution, one must clearly define the term ?revolution?. Historians believe that for a war to be deemed a revolution it must encompass social, religious, economic, and intellectual dimensions as well as political change. I believe that the American Revolution conclusively exhibited all of these dimensions. Socially, America began with modern values unlike those of their British ancestry. The moral of equality was the foundation on which our nation began. When the tension grew between the colonies and England, the new ideology spread and began to widen to include almost all people. First, people began to realize that they did not necessarily live in a way which modeled their belief in equality. This, in itself shows the beginnings of a true revolution in that the people begin to see the need for change even within their own families, social groups, and lifestyles. After recognizing changes were needed, transformations began to occur in the colonies. For instance, a new position for women as upright citizens and leaders of the society emerged, and most states granted women equality of inheritance. Also, social distinctions such as status-seating at church and membership to private social clubs were attacked and diminished. People began referring to themselves as Mr. or Mrs., terms that illustrated the equality of all people, regardless of class or prestige. In addition, because most men were allowed a vote, education of the population became a priority. Nationalism spread as the people of America came to understand their common goals and needs. The concept of constituent power allowed for social changes also, as the people came to believe that the power rested in the will of the people, which caused them to gain self trust and esteem. People focused so much on equality and the rights of all people that in the south, several states passed laws which repressed the importation of slaves and made it easier to free slaves; in the north, slavery was outlawed in most states, and abolitionist groups arose. During the Revolution, the American people also formed new intellectual standpoints. The most respected thinkers of the time began to shift their focus to concentrate on creating political change. Men such as Ben Franklin, and other inventors theologists, and philosophers began to focus on concerns such as economic growth, constitutional revision, and westward expansion, rather than philosophy and theology.