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"The Two-Income Trap", 2009. A discussion of Elizabeth Warren's book, "The Two-Income Trap" and her views on why Americans are finding themselves with ever-increasing debts. 819 words (approx. 3.3 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 29.95 »
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Abstract This paper discusses the ever-increasing amounts of debt that Americans are finding themselves in. The paper bases its discussion on Elizabeth Warren's book, "The Two-Income Trap." It discusses the content of the book and Warren's view of why two-income families are finding themselves in more debt than when they were a one-income family.
From the Paper "Warren does not blame spendthrift families or selfish women, it should be noted. Warren believes that requiring more stringent standards to obtain mortgages of any kind is essential, so couples do not take on more debt than they can handle. She also advises against such tempting schemes as refinancing a home to pay for luxuries or even living expenses. Warren calls for Congress to regulate credit card companies and the amounts of debt that they charge, so consumers will not be tempted to take on more credit card debt than is wise. Warren would likely support the greater scrutiny of the financial industry Congress is currently considering, to prevent the current debacle facing lending companies such as Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae. These entities are to some extend culpable in facilitating the overspending Warren describes, and the driving up of the market price of homes."
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NAPHHS and American Healthcare, 2009. An analysis of the National Association of Public Hospitals and Health Systems' (NAPHHS) position on uninsured healthcare consumers. 1,468 words (approx. 5.9 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 48.95 »
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Abstract The paper provides an analysis and discussion concerning the position that the National Association of Public Hospitals and Health Systems (NAPHHS) has taken on the policy issue/problem of uninsured healthcare consumers in the United States. The paper examines the rationale the group has given for its position and discusses why the group should and should not take this position. The paper concludes that while there are serious problems facing the NAPHHS today, the United States can ill afford to ignore the healthcare needs of millions of Americans. In addition, the paper asserts that healthcare delayed simply means higher costs later on and a diminishment of the ability of workers to continue their employment in the future.
Outline:
The Issue/Problem
The Group's Position
The Rationale the Group has Given for its Position, the Evidence or Other Support for its Position, What Accounts for the Group's Approach to the Issue
An Evaluation of the Group's Position. Why the Group Should Take on this Position, Why the Group Should Not Take This Position
From the Paper "Today, the National Association of Public Hospitals and Health Systems (NAPHSS) provides more than $6 billion in unreimbursed healthcare services to healthcare consumers in the United States and operates a number of emergency rooms and ambulatory care facilities that represent the only access to healthcare for many people. Together with the Department of Veterans Affairs, the NAPHSS is also responsible for training many of the healthcare practitioners that go on to make substantive contributions to the nation's healthcare system. Clearly, the NAPHSS represents an important component of the nation's healthcare system, but the manner in which these hospitals are funded and the amounts they receive make the problem of continuing to provide care for millions of uninsured Americans especially challenging."
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City of Norfolk 2008 Budget, 2009. An examination of the budget for the City of Norfolk, Virginia for the 2008 fiscal year. 4,560 words (approx. 18.2 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 118.95 »
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Abstract The paper explains the City of Norfolk's approach to capital budgeting and critically examines the quality of the 2008 budget presentation. The paper outlines the key proposals and goals for the FY 2008 budget and reveals the total revenues and expenditures. The paper then proposes a new budget that will reflect a twenty percent decrease over the last year's figures. The paper includes an analysis of the situation and recommendations for the required budgetary cuts.
Outline:
Part I: Budget Format and Approach
Executive Proposals and Goals
Revenues and Expenditures
Public Services Costs
Summary
Part II: Overview of the Department Budget
Other Recommendations
Obstacles to Alternatives
Recommendations
From the Paper "Like many cities of similar size, the City of Norfolk uses a modified accrual basis for their budgeting and accounting (p. 9). This method allows expenditures to be recorded when the liability is incurred. For instance, purchase orders and contractual commitments are recorded as expenditures when they are executed (p. 9). However, revenues are recorded similar to a cash basis. They are recorded as soon as they are measurable and available (p. 9). This accounting method is based on known and foreseeable expenses in the future."
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Secular Vs. Religious, 2009. This paper examines why the West is mainly secular and the developing world mostly religious. 2,308 words (approx. 9.2 pages), 19 sources, MLA, $ 71.95 »
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Abstract In this article, the writer concentrates on certain specific and cardinal aspects in order to provide some understanding of the secularization of the Western developed counties as compared to the more religious outlook of many countries in the developing world. The view of secularization that is explored in this paper refers essentially to the materialistic cultural nexus that has developed in many Western countries and especially in industrialized developed countries. This is compared to the spiritual and religious orientation in less developed counties. The writer concludes that in general the secularization of the West in comparison to less developed counties is a fact that can be understood in terms of the advance of objective, rational thought and other concomitant factors in politics and history.
Outline:
Introduction and Overview
What is Secular and Secularization?
A Brief Overview of Secularization in the West
The Reasons for the Decline of Religious Beliefs
Rationality and Science in the West
Western Thought and Philosophy
Social and Political Aspects
Conclusion
From the Paper " While it is not possible to isolate any one single aspect as a central motivating factor in the movement towards a secular society in developed countries, yet the growth of rationality and the belief in objective science, especially in Western developed countries like the United Kingdom, had a profound effect on the attitude towards religion in the West. The Eastern and less developed countries of the world did not imbibe this strong trend towards rationality and scientific materialism to the same extent - which is a central reason for their greater tolerance of a religious and spiritual perspective on life.
"The growth of rationalist thinking is intimately connected with the increased faith in modern science and objectivity - which runs counter to subjective perception and faith in a God that cannot be seen or objectively encountered. Scientific thought was or lead to the questioning of the basic assumptions of religious reality."
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Venture Capital Early Stage Investments, 2009. An analysis of why private equity firms in Europe and the UK are moving away from venture capital early-stage investment. 9,615 words (approx. 38.5 pages), 37 sources, APA, $ 196.95 »
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Abstract This paper investigates 3i's and Apax's reasons for leaving venture capital (early-stage investments). It reviews the venture capital industry's performance in the UK and Europe in order to understand the context for the decisions of 3i and Apax. Finally, the paper seeks to understand the implications of these decisions for venture capital.
Table of Contents:
Objective Of The Study
Focus Of The Study
Research Questions
Introduction
Analysis Of The Venture Capital Industry In The Uk & Europe
Case Study: Apax
Case Study: 3i
Conclusion & Findings
From the Paper "Kohn (2008) states in the Committee on the Global Financial System Working Group (2008) in a report entitled: CGFS Papers: No. 30 Private Equity and Leveraged Finance Markets that in the past few years leveraged buyouts (LBOs) have been characterized by "low levels of investor risk aversion that prevailed until mid-2007" and this gave encouragement to LBO deals to be involved with lower quality loans yet because of the various levels of "leveraged loan rating coverage across geographical areas and over time, it is difficult to infer the trend in the overall credit quality of LBO loans." (Kohn, 2008) There is noted the simultaneous decline in risk compensation and credit quality of leveraged loans as shown in the following charts labeled Figure 9 in this study."
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Residential Property Financing Programs, 2009. A discussion of the core characteristics of residential property financing programs and the need for borrowers to understand the implications of their financing schemes. 1,791 words (approx. 7.2 pages), 3 sources, APA, $ 57.95 »
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Abstract The paper provides an understanding of residential property financing and discuses how the housing downturn has been caused by the incapacity of many to fully understand the terms of their loans, in conjuction with an exploitive tendency by credit lenders and mortgage agencies. The paper contends that the attitude which dispenses with long-term considerations is an epidemic one both produced by the false security of a substantial loan and the general lack of understanding as to what is implied in the characteristics of various types of financing schemes. The paper firmly believes that the ambition toward home or property ownership must begin with a thorough comprehension of the implications and realities of property financing.
From the Paper "The American economy is in a clear-cut state of recession. With job creation on the downslide, the dollar in a value spiral and commodity costs levying the already imposing specter of inflation on the American people. In the midst of these conditions, a litany of irresponsible credit and loan policies has produced a housing market bust. Though slowing economic indicators have persisted since 2000, consumer confidence and credit purchasing had sustained the economy for several of these years. This was the case against the better judgment of sound economic stewardship, as today countless homeowners are unable to keep up on mortgage payments. Massive foreclosures have ensued, with houses entering the market at a pace far greater than the exit of houses from the market or the entrance of new buyers. The lagging economy is not the only reason for this negative trend however. There are additionally indications that one of the foundational explanations for the current mortgage crisis is the dearth of understanding of many borrowers as to that which is stipulated by their respective residential property financing terms."
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Technology in Business Management, 2009. A discussion on the necessity of technological knowledge in the modern global economy. 2,366 words (approx. 9.5 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 72.95 »
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Abstract The paper explores the role of technology in the practical application of business management and illustrates how even a charismatic leader with tremendous interpersonal skills will not be effective in management if he/she lacks technical expertise. The paper explains that while human skills are integral to counseling and mentoring employees, technological savvy is required to develop the right technological skills to take the organization and the employee's career into the next decade. The paper discusses companies such as the New York Times that have failed to innovate and adapt to technology, and have therefore seen their goods and services lose their value.
From the Paper "Once upon a time, what an individual majored in college was thought to have very little impact on what he or she did in 'the real world.' In-house training meant everything. Even MBA programs had 'math camps,' or grilling sessions in the basic mathematical skills for an individual to assume a role of senior manager. In other words, personal attributes of leadership were deemed more important than the technological skills for managers--these skills could be learned after college, in graduate school, on the job, and elsewhere. The CEO (Chief Executive Officer) was responsible for running the company, and positions such as the CIO (Chief Information Officer) were unheard-of, as technology was relegated to experts. Managers were supposed to focus on refining their 'people skills'--supervising, motivating, and measuring the performance of individuals, not on the technological nuts and bolts of the organization."
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Boeing and Globalization, 2009. A look at globalization and its effects on Boeing Corporation. 1,397 words (approx. 5.6 pages), 6 sources, APA, $ 46.95 »
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Abstract This paper discusses Boeing Corporation and how the company has coped in times of globalization. The author analyzes how global trends such as advancing defense, military technology and free trade have affected Boeing in its business strategies and outlook. While free trade has given Boeing more business opportunities than it has had before, the author adds that globalization has also opened the doors to competition from other companies that can operate at a cheaper cost. The paper goes on to add that for larger economies to become compatible with trade partners, they must first experience some form of retraction and for the United States and such firms as Boeing, this is a very real threat for which competition may only be engaged by reduction of costs, true competitive edge in an open and global marketplace and a core adaptability to the needs and innovations which are currently overwhelming it.
From the Paper "The process of globalization, which is emphatically pursued today by economically empowered entities such as North America and the European Union, seeks an economic world order in which unfettered international trade and the deregulation of the global marketplace can--according to theoretical claims--help to elevate the development sphere of the world by transferring technological and political developments thereto. By contrast, critics of globalization argue that this claim is unrealistic, and instead allege that wealthier nations have used 'developing' nations to exploit low resource and labor costs, reduced environmental or labor laws and the essential need of such nations for international support."
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"Revolution is U.S.", 2009. An examination of the five-gas-stations theory and the discussions on globalization in Thomas L. Friedman's essay, "Revolution is U.S." 1,446 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 1 source, MLA, $ 47.95 »
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Abstract This paper examines Thomas L. Friedman's essay, "Revolution is U.S." It specifically examines the five-gas-stations theory that he presents in the essay and looks at how it explains how the world perceives the United States and its' influence on global culture. The paper also looks at Friedman's discussion on globalization and society in the world today.
From the Paper "In conclusion, Friedman's five-gas-stations theory is compelling and quite thought provoking. If America's gas station is the one spreading around the world, then the world is in serious trouble right now. America's gas station is running on empty. In the last 100-plus years, America has been at the forefront of new technologies and innovations, from the airplane to walking on the moon and developing the first PCs. Today, however, that role is changing. To put Friedman's theory to the test, based on our last century and a half, America's gas station should not only be efficient and lower cost; it should be the vanguard of the future. When a driver enters America's gas station, they should pump hydrogen or ethanol fuels from pumps powered by solar or wind energy. The car should be a hybrid with alternative technologies and enough horsepower to climb Mt. Everest. It should be big enough for the family and yet fuel efficient, and the attendants will help you plug in your electric car to charge it up, if need be. That should be America's gas station according to our past performance, but today's American gas station is instead a vanguard of American dominance and globalization, and that is a tragic flaw in the world's hope for the future, and the survival of different and unique cultures around the world."
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Outsourcing American Jobs, 2009. This paper discusses the pros and cons of outsourcing's effects on the American economy and workforce. 2,265 words (approx. 9.1 pages), 12 sources, APA, $ 70.95 »
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Abstract The paper details the many advantages and disadvantages of outsourcing American jobs. The paper contends that there is a balance American companies need to strike between giving away their autonomy for the sake of gaining greater expertise and insight, and the offloading of non-critical and often routine tasks. The paper emphasizes that offloading non-essential tasks is important, yet retaining control over their quality is just as critical.
Outline:
Introduction
Effects of Outsourcing on American Jobs
Summary
From the Paper "For any company or industry to remain competitive, it must focus on its core strengths, and given the turbulent economic and political climate globally, the ability to consistently and intensely focus on ones' core strengths can mean the difference between survival or not. The debate rages on relative to the effects of outsourcing on the American economy and workforce. Supporters contend that outsourcing gives their companies the ability to focus on their core strengths by offloading non-critical and routine tasks (Travis, Meunier, 2004) (Travis, 2003). Additionally there are the cost advantages (Survey: Virtual Champions, 2006) and the ability to gain access to expertise at a lower cost than hiring a comparable expert as a full-time employee (Survey: Virtual Champions, 2006) and (Travis, 2003)."
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Southern California Housing Market, 2009. An overview of the factors responsible for the Southern California housing slump. 950 words (approx. 3.8 pages), 3 sources, APA, $ 33.95 »
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Abstract The paper explains the key microeconomic factors that have contributed to a downturn on the demand side, and a rise on the supply side in the housing market. The paper discusses factors such as the reduction in cheap and easy access to credit, the increase in fuel prices, the excess housing and the liquidation of properties by banks. The paper points out that these factors of supply and demand have affected the southern California housing market more in outlying areas than in the inner city.
From the Paper "The Southern California housing market is mired in a prolonged slump. The average house price in Southern California declined 27% in May 2008 versus May 2007. Some experts believe that the prices will decline even further before prices are sufficiently low enough to entice buyers back into the market . There are a couple of key microeconomic factors that have contributed to this downturn on the demand side, and others on the supply side. Affecting the demand side is a reduction in cheap and easy access to credit. This access had fueled an abnormal surge in demand, contributing to rising prices which in turn fueled more demand. Also affecting demand is the increase in fuel prices, which has discourage many consumers from entering the housing market, especially in certain areas."
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Bulgaria and the Euro, 2009. A discussion of Bulgaria's potential adoption of the euro and its effects. 1,406 words (approx. 5.6 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 46.95 »
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Abstract The paper provides an overview of the implementation of the euro in the European Union's member states. The paper then explores the potential adoption of the euro by Bulgaria and explains the disadvantages for the Bulgarian entrepreneurs and the general population. The paper discusses how when Bulgaria became a member of the EU with full rights, numerous investors from wealthier countries of the EU poured euros into the country that benefited Bulgarian entrepreneurs and the population alike. Finally, the paper offers recommendations on how the Bulgarian government can best cope with the future adoption of the euro as a national currency.
Outline:
Overview and Update on the Implementation of the Euro
Threats of the Euro upon Bulgarian Companies
Opportunities of the Euro upon Bulgarian Companies
Recommendations for National Policy and Bulgarian Companies
From the Paper "The euro was introduced on the 1st of January 1999 to become the national currency of eleven state members. Its introduction lead to the transformation of national currencies into euros; foreign operations between the eleven countries begun to be carried out in euros; the new public debt would be issued in euros and the old public debt would be converted from the former currency into euros; all financial markets in the member states would issues their stocks and bonds in euros and the former national currencies would become denominations of the euro, to be completely eliminated by 2002."
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Nations and Nationalism, 2009. An examination of two theories which analyze the role and the actual birth of a nation and nationalism. 4,365 words (approx. 17.5 pages), 12 sources, APA, $ 115.95 »
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Abstract The paper argues that nations as well as nationalism are two essential elements of today's world. The paper focuses on Ernest Gellner's theory that contends that nations and nationalism are outgrowths of a modern industrial society and Anthony Smith's theory that argues that although we can not discount the influence of human creativity in their formation, nations and nationalism are also the products of preexisting traditions and heritages. The paper offers a critique of these theories and considers these theories' application on the political scene. The paper concludes that it is important to consider both approaches as neither of them is exhaustive or flawless in their explanations.
Outline:
Introduction
Principles
Theories and their Discussion
Critique of the Theories
Development of Nationalism - 1780's to Present- Application of Theories
Conclusions
From the Paper "We live in a world that is constantly searching for its identity, one which is made up of state actors, non state actors, organizations, corporations and leaders. They all have a strong voice and opinion concerning the new direction of the world and they all represent important pieces in the way in which world politics is conducted. However, the traditional aspect of the international law contends that the state remains the most important and most legitimate actor in the international system. This assessment is viewed as modern and as dissolute at the same time. Around this subject and the theoretical aspects it entangles, there are a wide variety of debates and scholarly discussions some of which use the most interesting yet specific aspects of the definition of a state and of a nation. These perspectives have led to a series of theories which analyses the role as well as the actual birth of the nation and that of nationalism which in the end defines the nation state."
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The World Bank, 2009. This paper examines the World Bank, looking at its role, endeavors and goals. 2,293 words (approx. 9.2 pages), 7 sources, APA, $ 70.95 »
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Abstract In this article, the writer introduces, discusses and analyzes the topic of the World Bank. Specifically, the writer analyzes the World Bank and its major accomplishments. The writer notes that, created in 1944, the World Bank's goal was to aid Europe after the end of World War II and it proved to be extremely valuable during the post-war reconstruction as world trade struggled. The writer describes that later the Bank sought a new financial role as global economic development transpired. The writer also discusses that the World Bank has struggled over the last few decades because the needs that necessitated the organization no longer exist. As the world's finances have grown more stable, many argue the organization's goals are obsolete and that the bank should close. The writer concludes that the World Bank may have served a purpose in the past, but in the future, it needs to reform for it to be relevant to today's world.
From the Paper "Many feel the World Bank has a central role in creating this globalized and western way of life. In addition, many critics believe the World Bank has irreparably damaged human rights and created massive social injustices in many of its projects.
"One example is the Pak Mun Dam Project in Thailand. The World Bank committed to the project in 1991, when Thailand was preparing to increase technologies in preparation for entering the world trade market. The main industries in the area of the dam were agriculture and fishing, and both were severely disrupted by the dam, leaving rural villagers without any means of survival or income. In addition, the dam created serious environmental impact on the surrounding area."
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Airlines and Rising Fuel Prices, 2009. An in-depth analysis of the impact of high fuel costs on the aviation industry. 4,106 words (approx. 16.4 pages), 9 sources, APA, $ 110.95 »
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Abstract The paper explains that since airlines are heavily dependent upon fuel for its continuing operations, they have been heavily burdened by rising fuel prices. The paper then looks at airlines' cost-cutting measures such as laying of thousands of workers and delaying or eliminating long-distance flights and relates that the general aviation industry has also suffered. Next, the paper overviews the solutions that revolve around alternative lead-free fuel. The paper concludes that while the market is extremely unstable at the moment, it is nonetheless possible that the crisis can be averted when officials work together to find viable solutions.
Outline:
Abstract
Introduction
Commercial Aviation
Conclusion
From the Paper "The rising costs of fuel has become the main conversation point of motorists throughout the world. For perhaps the first time in world history, the food and fuel crises have become worldwide phenomena, with only an investment in alternative fuel sources appearing to be a valid long-term response. The aviation industry is no exception, and indeed appears to be one of the hardest hit industries in terms of fuel. Both commercial and private airlines need a large amount of fuel in order to complete their long- and short-distance flights. The rising fuel costs have resulted in a number of strategies to mitigate the extra investment required. Some commercial airlines have even reduced their long-distance flights in order to save fuel, while others have increased their ticket costs. The reality is that fuel prices are likely to continue their upward trend as the world's oil resources are increasingly pressured."
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