ShantanuT01/DACTYL-Pretraining huggingface dataset:
Evaluate the pros and cons of Levi Struss’s decision to close its south Zarzamora street plant. Was it a sound business decision? Was it a socially responsible decision? Could the company have reasonably been expected to keep the plant running? Pros The decision enabled Levi Strauss to save on the costs of operating in San Antonio. This is because the closure, according to Stallworth, was to cost only $13.5 million. The cost was reasonable since the company would be able to recoup all the costs within the first two years of operation in the Caribbean. Levi Strauss was also able to save on the costs of paying their workers. This is because operating in the Caribbean is cheaper than San Antonio since the workers do not demand maximum wage. The company also planned on hiring independent contractors would provide them with labourers. This makes the company save more since it does not pay directly for the worker’s health insurance and work accident compensation. The use of contractors also ensures the company saves on human resource management as well as time is taken for training employees and hiring. Cons The closure of Levi Strauss led to the largest lay off in San Antonio. This led to a negative reaction from civil activists who protested the decision and went further to file a case in court. Such a case was bad for the image of the Levi Strauss. The activists also mobilized the customers to boycott products by Levi. Even though these reactions were not successful, they embarrassed the company’s corporate image. As a result of public cry, Levi Strauss was forced to donate $100000 to finance the local agencies that were to retrain their former employees. They also parted with $340000 in costs for counselling their former employees and training. The decision by the company was sound since the company’s closure was to enable it to make more profits abroad. The decision was not socially responsible but considering the extent to which Levi Strauss went to ensure their former employees were in good condition then the decision was responsible. The company could not run because the plant was not running at full capacity hence making it difficult for it to make profits. The number of employees in the plant was high compared to the number the company was to employ after it shifted. Having decided to close the plant, was there more than Levi Strauss could and should have done for its laid-off workers? Yes, Levi Strauss should have in the first place prepared the workers for future closure. This would have made them aware and thus prepared for the eventuality of the closure. Levi Strauss should also have provided their employees with retrenchment benefits which would have made them self-reliant and able to sustain themselves. Such a move would have reduced the public outcry due to the closure and sacking the w
Supreme Court justices are the highest judicial officers of the United States who preside over the Supreme Court and decide on the cases argued before it. Once such an office is free, the president selects a nominee, and the Senate should approve their candidacy. This fact ensures that the confirmation process is impartial, which contributes to the effectiveness of the Supreme Court by endorsing the candidates who have the most suitable skills and knowledge to occupy this position. However, the recent evidence has demonstrated that everything is not so good as it sounds. One can say that the American political system has become partisan, which could not but introduce some adverse effects. Among these consequences, it is necessary to emphasize the fact that the nominees tend to be approved according to their political preferences and other external factors, and this condition can result in a deteriorated judicial system. To begin with, one should explain that the Supreme Court justices have always been in a troubled relationship with the nation’s politics. Schmidt and Shapiro (2018) report that it is so because the justices consider “themselves as above the political fray” (p. 315). When these officials cancel democratically enacted laws, politicians tend to challenge such decisions, which results in harsh political debates. From this perspective, it seems logical, but not constitutional, that some senators approve those candidates who have shared political vision with them. Even though this tendency is said to create a uniform governing structure, it results in the fact that individuals without proper qualifications serve as Supreme Court justices. As for the current confirmation process, it has substantially changed over time. According to Collins and Ringhand (2016), a higher number of hearing comments and increased considerations of nominees’ views of judicial decisions are among the most noticeable alterations. In addition to that, the research by Boyd, Collins Jr., and Ringhand (2018) stipulates that the confirmation process implies some kinds of discrimination. It relates to the fact that it is more difficult for an individual to become a Supreme Court justice if they are questioned by a senator who belongs to a different political party. The same tendency emerges when it comes to approving a female nominee. As a rule, senators ask women “more questions about their judicial philosophies in an effort to determine their competence” (Boyd et al., 20
Introduction: General Overview of the Reading The book under consideration is called Living with Art and it is dedicated to the analysis of tools and approaches for students better understand the essence of visual arts. Providing a great number of examples, the first part of the books evaluates the nature, elements, and vocabulary of art, presenting a solid ground for student to learn to analyze and assess art successfully (Getlein 12). The rest of the reading is devoted to the historical study of art, bringing students to better comprehending of art in the context of time and place. In order to conceive the main principles and importance of art, the book provides a range of images illustrating different historic and cultural periods. Analyzing all these elements in general can help learners to better understand visual arts embodying human experience and realize that living in the world of art means living with yourself. Main Ideas Presented in the Book The book discusses the art as the main instrument for assessing history, culture, and other significant terrains of human life. Beginning with mere definition of the essence of art and ending with historical and cultural analysis of visual artistic items, the authors makes an effective introduction to different artistic elements, purposes, and styles (Getlein 38). The author provides the analysis of art from several perspectives: purposes and themes of art, the meaning of art, and individual approach and techniques used in part. What is more important, the author presents art from the historic viewpoint disclosing its value in term of representing historic facts and events. While introducing various themes of art, the author dedicates one-page discussion of a particular art item, and short essays on such topics as public art and restoration. Finally, using different small photos as visual references to particular works and topics, the author strives to initiate the reader into the historic evaluation and discussion of the past. Discussing the Main Strengths of the Book The presented reading is quite informative and compelling, as it exhaustively discloses the main tools and elements of visual arts and their role in maintaining cultural and historical heritage of humanity. Throughout the chapters, the author attempts to draw the link between textual information and attached illustrations contributing to better understanding of those visual elements. It should also be noted that author pays specific attention to the analysis of different types of art with regard to its role in political, social, and cultural life of people. Beginning with general introduction of art goals and missions, proceeding to the main artistic tendencies and styles, and ending with large-scale references to religion, history, and culture, the author skillfully emphasize the global aesthetic impart of art on all spheres of life. A special consideration deserves the presentation of images, illustrations, and photos in the reading. Particularly, th
Abstract Basically, naked marriage could arise from a societal process that influences the choices of the young people when it cones to marital issues. When one marries without acquiring certain necessities such as a house where the couple will stay, a car for easy transportation and enough income to arrange for a colorful wedding, the act is called naked marriage. It is important to understand that various researchers have come up with several explanations about the issue of naked marriage. Nevertheless, one explanation that clearly stands out is that naked marriage is ultimately about engaging in a relationship and subsequently marrying without first acquiring a house, car and inability to organize wedding for the new couple. Notably, the explanations expose the meaning and the results of naked marriage. It is believed that the focused people should aim at having a happy family through working hard and acquiring the mentioned necessities before the actual marriage date. Notably, naked marriage could be employed in any particular matrimonial institution or setting, and has the potential to determine the development and success of the couple. Introduction The issue of naked marriage is on the rise in the Asian region, a situation worrying most of the parents. Since the youth get married without first acquiring a house, a car or without any proper arrangement for a wedding, their parents are forced to lend hand and cater for the cost of all thos
Introduction It is proposed to take up the civil procedure system in New Zealand. First of all, it is necessary to find out the main distinction between adversarial systems vis-à-vis inquisitorial systems that underpin legal practices in New Zealand. Under inquisitorial systems “Attorney questioning is often brief because the judge tries to ask all relevant questions.” ( Inquisitorial system 2009). Under inquisitorial systems, the courts are required to delve into the cases and ascertain the facts before passing their verdict. They need to go beyond the production of evidence and arguments of parties. However, under adversarial systems, the Courts, and more specifically the judges, act upon the evidence and arguments put forth by the attorneys of the contestants “Adversary theory holds that requiring each side to develop and to present its own proofs and arguments is the surest way to uncover the information that will enable the judge or jury to resolve the conflict.” ( Adversary system – the adversary system ). Thus, in real terms, they would just be referees of the deliberations between the applicants/plaintiffs and the defendants. Individuals differ in style and approach and the Courts are well aware of it. The rubric of deliberations in one case may be entirely different from a similar case, even if it were the same lawyers engaged on both occasions. In the case of litigant-in-person, it is seen that due to certain reasons like costs, lack of confidence in lawyers, or some other reason, the litigant argues for himself, without seeking the help of counsel or lawyers. While this has both pros and cons in terms of reduced legal expenses, satisfaction in defending one’s rights and legal privileges, there are cons in the form of being pitted against a stronger and more professionally equipped adversary, which may be self-defeating in certain cases. In the New Zealand context, “the adversary system
Organizational Overview Walgreens is committed to establishing a better world through health and wellness. Founded by Charles R. Walgreen on December 29, 1901, Walgreens is one of the largest pharmacy chains in the United States (Walgreens, 2020). Walgreens employs over 253,000 members, including pharmacists, technicians, nurse practitioners, and other health-related professionals (Walgreens,2020). With their corporate office in Deerfield, Illinois, Walgreens operates over 9,600 stores. Most of these stores are freestanding, have drive-thru pharmacies and in-store clinics (Walgreens, 2020). “Operating in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico, Walgreens is a United States subsidiary of Walgreens Boots Alliance, one of the world’s largest dispensers of prescription drugs”. (Walgreens, 2020). The company has stores in more than 25 countries around the world (Walgreens,2020). Team 2’s role will focus on the store in Chicago, Illinois, in its effort with the Federal government to administer free COVID-19 vaccines to the local population. Organizational Challenge The world is currently experiencing the most extensive and overwhelming pandemic of our lifetime. The impact has resulted in over 301,278 lives lost, and millions of companies and individuals in financial ruins (World Health Organization, 2020). As COVID-19 implications continue to affect many sectors of the economy and society, a vaccine for the virus has become crucial. The Federal government has partnered with Walgreens to distribute a vaccine when it becomes available (2020). The current news indicates two drug manufacturers, Moderna and Pfizer, have developed a vaccine that is likely to be authorized by the end of the year (Salzman, 2020). When the vaccines become available, Walgreens will need to take the necessary steps to prepare for the new vaccines’ arrival, distribution, and storage. The organizational problem that our team is presenting is how to distribute the COVID19 vaccine from Moderna or Pfizer safely. What plan of action must Walgreen’s take to safely implement procedures at the Chicago store for distribution of the new COVID-19 vaccines? In this simulated report, we propose to clarify the facts and processes on how to confirm the project’s sustainability at all levels, from ordering, storing, and supplying the vaccine to our customers at Walgreens. Our focus is to coordinate and collaborate with pharmaceutical companies, providers, and health care departments to distribute the vaccine safely and efficiently. Challenges with current ongoing drive-thru testing, improving dual delivery services present many questions our facility must answer. Remaining aware of community needs, offering customers various shopping options, and vaccine distribution. Our goal is to maintain excellent quality of service for our customers they have come to expect. Consideration of adjusting operating hours and offering additional products for purchase at our drive-thru pharmac
Introduction The prevalence rates of student dropouts from American Universities and Colleges are alarmingly high. This trend has profound effects not only on the labor industry in terms of a decrease in the percentage of skilled labor force, but also on the American society. The problem of the increasing percentage of college dropouts is also a costly one as States lose enormous sums of money in grants to freshmen, who fail to complete their studies. Moreover, the high number of dropouts results to thousands of workers with enormous loan debts and insufficient skills to meet the dynamics and demands of contemporary labor market. The high rate of college dropouts begs the question as to why many college students drop out from college. Understanding the reasons for the high attrition rates is essential in the efforts to reduce the high dropout rates. College freshmen drop out for various reasons. Inability to balance classes and work can result to some students leaving school for work. Additionally, the failure to afford college fees, challenging coursework maybe resulting from academic unpreparedness and failure to establish positive social connections with peers can lead to some students dropping out of college. The increasing percentage of college dropouts can be attributed to academic unpreparedness, unclear career path, and financial constraints. Academic Unpreparedness Academic unpreparedness primarily arises from problematic transition from secondary education to college or university education. Students from schools with inadequate academic resources often experience inferior education at elementary and secondary school levels. Thus, the limited academic resources in such schools negatively affect the transition from secondary education to college. Furthermore, in many cases, students from minority cultural groups experience prolonged separation from their families and cultures when they join college, which are, usually, located far from their homes. As a result, the students find it difficult to adjust to the new lifestyles present in colleges or universities. Additionally, due to closeness to their families or cultural practices, the students may become homesick soon after joining colleges that are far from their homes. This coupled with the lack of college preparatory programs in colleges and universities can affect the smooth transition from secondary education to higher education. The discontinuity between secondary education and college education processes also affects the level of academic preparedness of freshmen. Many freshmen arrive at universities/colleges with underdeveloped writing, reading, and comprehension skills. According to Jay Greene and Marcus Winters, majority of students especially from remote rural secondary schools, migrants, or students from lower economic status largely lack basic language skills especially where English is their second language (13). As a result, the transition to college for such students can be a disor
Different countries have different political systems that run their respective governments. These political systems range from federal to confederal to unitary political systems. In a unitary system, only one government is in control, and that is the central government. On the other hand, a confederate system is where smaller governments in terms of counties, provinces, and states yield more power than the central government. Interestingly, the United States was in the past a confederacy although it later adopted a federal system. A federal system where the central and state government share power equally. In essence, the central government as stated in the American constitution operates from Washington, DC, while state governments operate from their respective headquarters. This system is the best so far for Americans although it receives criticism at times. The possibility of Americans changing the federal system is next to nil as many Americans term it as a symbol of American rights and freedoms (Bodenhamer, (n.d), Para. 3-10). Each of the two governments has its performance roles clearly spelled out in the American constitution. For example, the central government controls all trade policies and other significant interfaces between states. Moreover, the central government has the power to tax, enact and regulate the supply of money in all states. In this way, all states are subject to equal revenue from the government; thus, equal development initiation. Some states will cooperate to enact infringing laws and commission of crimes contrary to the constitution. When this happens, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducts an investigation and enforces the law in all states. A federal system poses more advantages than disadvantages. For example, if citizens are at loggerheads with one party of the government, there are usually other channels to follow. Thus, a federal system creates mobilization in political systems. A multitude of government levels forms many alternatives for solving a particular crisis or apprehensions. If there were a political convention in the United States today, the federal system would retain. This is because; a federal system is a representation of justice and equality to the American people (Watts, 1998, Para. 16-47). Diverse policies created by different states, provide a platform for competitive development either culturally, politically or socially. For example, in New Jersey, driving age is d
Introduction Globally, demands for competitiveness have compelled most organizations to adopt vast and critical transformational initiatives. For instance, most non-profit organizations have streamlined their strategic management systems, including workforce motivation in order to remain competitive and relevant in their endeavors. Basically, most organizations have realized the significance of a competitive and motivated workforce. Consideration of employees’ welfare and their consequent engagement and motivation has increasingly become a critical factor in enhancing organizational performances (Axelrod, 2010). Nonetheless, these initiatives have also become vital components and indicators for benchmarking and compliance to the existent labor laws. Generally, employee and volunteer’s satisfaction has become a vital aspect for enhancing organizational performance. The provisions of engagement and developmental opportunities contribute to the alleged satisfaction in numerous organizations (Thomas, 2009). Observably, there are distinct challenges associated with the establishment and ratification of motivational opportunities both for the paid and volunteering staff in most non-profit making agencies. Following the notable challenges and gaps, there is a need for an extensive research and analysis concerning the issue of employee engagement and motivation in various organizations. Therefore, this paper presents some inherent beliefs on how the management of non-profit organizations can effectively establish opportunities to motivate paid staff and volunteer workers. Employee Engagement and Motivation in Non-Profit Organizations An effective and transformational leadership style, coupled with a strategic management approach forms a basic springboard for successful employee and volunteer engagement and motivation. Non-profit organizations are increasingly encouraged to adopt team building initiatives or programs in order to enhance the integration and engagement of its entire staff. Because teams work in unity with collective goals, an introduction of teamwork ensures that all employees get engaged and motivated appropriately. Consequently, there is remarkable minimization of discrimination based on sex, race, or age in terms of paid or volunteer workers. Regarding every worker (whether paid or volunteer) is a critical step towards achieving proper employee engagement and motivation (Axelrod, 2010). This explains why an open-minded management approach encourages motivation for novelty and innovation amongst all its workers. The management has to determine the interests of its workers and volunteers and thereafter, assist them to achieve thes