bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Religiosity, nationalism and human reproduction: the case of Israel
Authors: Landau Ruth
Published: June 2007

Israel is 280 miles long and 10 miles wide at its narrowest point; it is comparable in size to the State of New Jersey. The total population of Israel is currently about 6.5 million, of the same order as the populations of Austria, Switzerland or Denmark. Eighty per cent of the population are Jews, 15 per cent Muslim, 3 per cent Christians and 2 per cent Druze (Yaffe, 1999). Israel is a highly urban and industrialized country, with over 95 per cent of the population living in cities or towns. Israel’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita is approximately US $17,500. This, despite its geographical location in the Middle East, makes Israel’s economic level equal to that of England, placing Israel among the developed European countries.
Explaining informal and second‐hand goods acquisition
Authors: Williams Colin C.
Published: June 2007

In the past few years, the view that participation in informal and/or second‐hand modes of goods acquisition results from economic necessity has been contested by an agency‐orientated cultural reading that views such engagement to be about the search for fun, sociality, distinction, discernment, the spectacular and so forth, and more recently by an approach that ascribes agency‐orientated motives to affluent populations and economic rationales to deprived populations. Drawing upon 120 face‐to‐face interviews conducted in the English city of Leicester however, the aim of this article is to display how engagement cannot be simply reduced to either economic necessity or agency. Finding that both co‐exist in people’s explanations for participation and combine in varying ways in different populations, a both/and approach is here advocated that recognises the entanglement of both economic necessity and choice in rationales for participation in informal and second‐hand modes of goods acquisition.
Continuity and change in the gender segregation of the medical profession in Britain and France
Authors: Crompton Rosemary , Le Feuvre Nicky
Published: June 2007

It is a well established fact that the entry of women into higher‐level professional occupations has not resulted in their equal distribution within these occupations. Indeed, the emergence and persistence of horizontal and vertical gender segregation within the professions has been at the heart of the development of a range of alternative theoretical perspectives on both the “feminisation process” and the future of the “professions”more generally. Through an in‐depth comparative analysis of the recent changes in the organisation and administration of the medical profession in Britain and France, this paper draws upon statistical data and biographical interviews with male and female general practitioners (GPs) in both countries in order to discuss and review a variety of approaches that have been adopted to explain and analyse the “eminisation” process of higher‐level professions. Our conclusions review the theoretical debates in the light of the evidence we have presented. It is argued that, despite important elements of continuity in respect of gendered occupational structuring in both countries, national variations in both professional and domestic gendered architectures lead to different outcomes as far as the extent and patterns of internal occupational segregation are concerned. Both female and male doctors are currently seeking – with some effect – to resist thepressures of medicine on family life.
Part‐time and casual nursing work: the perils of healthcare restructuring
Authors: Grinspun Doris
Published: June 2007

Focuses on nursing in the context of a broader analysis of flexible labour markets, with a focus on part‐time and casual work, which thousands of nurses in Canada have been forced into through health care restructure. Discusses the subject in great detail and concludes employers lost control of their own strategy with regard to the restructure of employment for their staff.
Older people and carceral institutions in the UK: a Foucauldian excursion
Authors: Wahidin Azrini , Powell Jason
Published: June 2007

Drawing from Foucault’s methodological terms of archaeology and genealogy this article critically engages with understanding the inter‐relationship between old age and prison life.We draw out the relevance of a Foucauldian paradigm for investigating how penal discourses and actual prisoners experiences exemplify issues of power, knowledge and surveillance in institutional settings. We draw out how violence impinges on the lives of older people in prisons by pointing out the implications of such experiences for both a critical ontology and epistemology of ageing. It is by transgressing the boundaries of the conventional understanding of the prison and by casting a critical gaze that will gain greater understanding of how elder abuse in secure settings goes unregulated.
Laud Humphreys and research ethics
Authors: Babbie Earl
Published: June 2007

Laud Humphreys’ Tea Room Trade has been a regular topic in discussions of social research ethics for thirty years. This article reviews some of the past criticisms and offers a current assessment of Humphreys’ research ethics.
Controversies surrounding Laud Humphreys’ tearoom trade: an unsettling example of politics and power in methodological critiques
Authors: Lenza Michael
Published: June 2007

Argues that Humphrey’s tearoom trade study, misinforms readers as much as it informs, regarding moral and ethical foundations for research with human subjects. States that Humphrey’s tearoom study made significant positive contributions to the population he studied. Concludes that few studies in sociology have accomplished as much in a single work.
Nation‐building through international volunteerism: a case study of Singapore
Authors: Chantelle Krishna Kisha , Haque Khondker Habibul
Published: June 2007

Argues taht the idea of global and national/international categories being inherently opposed, is a fallacy of the globalization debate. Seeks to illustrate how “international” co‐operation can have favourable national consdequences. Explores the implications of international volunteerism for nation‐building in Singapore.
The pensioner booms in post‐communist Hungary and Poland: political sociology perspectives
Authors: Vanhuysse Pieter
Published: June 2007

Starts out by documenting the massive scale of early, and disability, retirement in Hungary and Poland, during the first seven years of the post‐communist transition. Sums up that the Hungarian and Polish governments had urgent reasons to design social policies to try to halt the danger of large‐scale protests in the 1990s.
Whose solution is it? development ideology and the work of micro‐entrepreneurs in Caribbean context
Authors: Karides Marina
Published: June 2007

An economic leader in the Caribbean, the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago has incorporated micro‐business development as one of its main strategies to alleviate poverty and unemployment and to spawn economic growth since the late 1980s. Although the discovery of natural gas in the early nineties catapulted Trinidad’s economic growth rate to four per cent per annum, unemployment and poverty continue to affect a large portion of the population. The majority of the population has not benefited from Trinidad’s economic growth. Thus, the government has attempted to create “a nation of entrepreneurs” in order to relieve some of the inequality that defines the society (Ministry of Trade and Industry 1997).
The Market Illusion: Re‐reading work in advanced economies
Authors: Williams Colin C.
Published: June 2007

This article evaluates critically the meta‐narrative that a powerful, expansive, hegemonic and totalising market sphere is penetrating deeper into each and every corner of everyday life in the ‘advanced market economies’. Drawing theoretical inspiration from an emerging corpus of post structuralist thought that has begun to re‐read the mean ing of work, this dom i nant dis course is here challenged by re‐evaluating the nature and trajectories of work. This will reveal that the organisation of work is grounded in a plurality of economic practices of which market work represents only one segment. Nor is any evidence identified of a uni‐dimensional and linear trajectory towards a hegemonic market. In the final section, therefore, it is shown to be now necessary to engage in a politics of re‐representation of work in these so‐called ‘market’ societies so as to open them up to re‐signification.
Consumer voters in imagined communities
Authors: Shaw Deirdre
Published: June 2007

Purpose

Increasingly, reports of consumers are witnessed expressing their concerns regarding corporate practices through behaviours of boycotting, buycotting and voice. The theory of consumer votes suggests that such consumers may view their purchases as “votes” in the marketplace. The purpose of this paper is to explore consumer voting within competing theories of community.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts an exploratory approach through semi‐structured in‐depth interviews with a purposive sample of ten ethical consumers.

Findings

Findings reveal that consumers adopted a voting metaphor in their approaches to ethical consumption. While choices were mainly individual in nature they were characterised as part of a wider, largely imagined community of like‐minded consumers.

Research limitations/implications

This research is limited to a single country and location and focused on a specific consumer group. Expansion of the research to a wider group would be valuable.

Practical implications

Findings reveal consumers active in registering their discontent towards companies considered to be unethical, while rewarding those considered ethical. This has important implications for marketers interested in appealing to this group. Findings also reveal consumers taking responsibility through marketplace actions for ethical/political issues. This view of consumer votes as being more effective than political votes is pertinent, given reports of a decline in engagement with traditional political participation.

Originality/value

Limited empirical attention has been given to consumption as voting explored within the context of community. However, with reports of a rise in consumer ethical concerns and reports of a search for community in society this suggests that further exploration of this area is worthwhile.
Queer consumption and commercial hospitality
Authors: Lugosi Peter
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a conceptual framework for understanding the relationship between sexual dissidence, gender transgression and commercial hospitality. The paper aims to argue that this can be used to examine how ideological assumptions about lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) consumers are mobilised in the production and consumption of hospitality spaces.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper synthesises three theoretical strands: first, Turner's concepts of the liminoid and communitas; second, anthropological and socio‐political conceptions of myth and myth‐making and third, Lefebvre's spatial dialectic in the production of material, abstract and symbolic space. It is argued that, when considered together, these theoretical approaches help to understand the consumer experience, the ideological assumptions that underpin the experience, and the processes through which the experience is constructed.

Findings

The holistic nature of the approach helps to analyse the relationship between consumption and community ideologies at the micro level of personal interaction, the meso level of group and organisational norms and the macro level of societal structures and agencies.

Research limitations/implications

The application of this framework in empirical research can enhance our understanding of the role of commercial hospitality spaces in reproducing and challenging particular ideological assumptions about LGBT consumers. It can inform the operational strategies of commercial organisations. Furthermore, it can underpin a critical perspective on management, which encourages practitioners to develop a sense of social responsibility towards the communities of consumers they target.

Originality/value

Applying this framework to empirical research will also help one to understand the nature of consumption and production within commercial hospitality.
On constructing trust: temporality, self‐disclosure, and perspective‐taking
Authors: Weber Linda R. , Carter Allison
Published: June 2007

Surveys students of sociology classes at a small college in the Northeastern USA to examine the process through which people construct trust in their interpersonal lives, focusing on friendship and love relationships. Refers to previous research into trust, in an attempt to define it satisfactorily. Describes the process by which a trust relationship is established and earned, noting that time and sychronicity form the basis of developing shared experiences. Discusses self‐disclosure, reciprocity, roles and perspective. Considers the implications of trust in the realm of clinical sociology, claiming that research into trust is crucial to understand and help those individuals who have difficulty in maintaining interpersonal relationships.
Federal efforts toward lead poisoning prevention and the role of the sociologist
Authors: Haley Barbara A.
Published: June 2007

Discusses prevention of lead poisoning among US children, claiming that it is entirely preventable yet is the most common environmentally induced disease in children. Outlines the extent of the problem then focuses on legislation, what the various acts were meant to achieve, and how they can be enforced. Explains how sociological skills were used in the author’s work for the US Department of Housing and Urban Development. Indicates that sociologists can help in a number of fields not immediately linked to sociology.
Drug testing in the workplace: the allure of management technologies
Authors: Draper Elaine
Published: June 2007

Discusses US use of drug testing in the workplace, screening employees for smoking, AIDS, genetic traits and reproductive hazards. Attributes this to the costs employers face in insurance, litigation and compensation. Points out that the purpose of drug testing is to circumvent management responsibility for: accidents in the workplace, stress, bad management practices, and disregarding health and safety initiatives. Acknowledges that the tests are harmful and indefensible. Reports that 81 per cent of members of the American Management Association in 1996 conducted drug testing. Claims that screening is the alternative to monitoring – that is screening out individuals who are seen as high risk in some way – yet that misses the point – the focus should be on making hazardous working conditions safe. Indicates that companies may use drug testing as a means of deterring drug users from gravitating towards their organization. Mentions that workplace‐induced stress can lead to substance abuse and that, therefore it is management driven, rather than being a problem the worker brings to the workplace. Quotes a number of company physicians who object to policing drug use. Indicates that drug testing has diverted attention away from health and safety issues and hazardous working conditions.
Acceptance in the family: a study of deformed and non‐deformed leprosy patients in Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Kopparty S.N.M.
Published: June 2007

Investigates leprosy as both a medical and social problem, particularly as the sufferer loses the ability to hold an economically productive role, affecting their social status and acceptance in the family. Surveys two areas in Tamil Nadu (India) to collect data on the extent of deformity and to assess if there is any difference in acceptance in the family depending on the individual)s deformity or non‐deformity. Suggests, from findings, that sufferers of leprosy are actually at greater risk of dehabilitation from their families, due to the social stigma of the disease affecting the family’s standing within the community. Indicates the need for prevention or correction of deformities, as it appears to be degree of physical attractiveness which influences interpersonal behaviour in the home, work place, school, health setting and other communal places. Discusses World Health Organization policies on leprosy and the economics of deformity.
Home management of acute respiratory infections: a challenge to the family and the community
Authors: Cabaraban Magdalena C.
Published: June 2007

Reports on a survey conducted to investigate acute respiratory infections (ARI) in children in developing countries, looking particularly at the Philippines. Explores the role of the National Committee for Acute Respiratory Infections and states its objectives and responsibilities. Asserts that state of health is associated with community structure, environmental factors, and social and psychological conditions. Finds also that maternal factors are important determinants in the incidence of ARI episodes, for example, the mother’s characteristics, level of health knowledge, her illness control activities, age, level of education, number of children, smoking behaviour, and the extent to which she has to fulfil other tasks. Explains the methodology used in the survey, the sampling procedure and research instruments used. Indicates that poor housing and living conditions should become the focal point of developmental efforts, and that better nipping in the bud health management should be encouraged through health education programmes.
Social change and the life course in East Germany: a cohort approach to inequalities
Authors: Weymann Ansgar , Sackmann Reinhold , Wingens Matthias
Published: June 2007

Outlines the experiences of East Germany as unification takes place. Presents the findings of a study analysing three groups of East Germans in their transitions from education to employment and subsequent careers from 1985 onwards. Suggests that the findings indicate that changes in macro structure and life courses are closely interrelated. Covers mobility, unemployment, retraining, competition, fertility rates and coping strategies.
European attitudes towards maternal employment
Authors: Scott Jacqueline
Published: June 2007

Uses data from 1994 International Social Survey Programme to examine how attitudes to maternal employment at different stages of child rearing vary across and within eight nations in the European Union, UK, Germany, Austria, the Netherlands, Sweden, Ireland, Italy and Spain. Considers whether a mismatch exists between belief in a women’s right to work and the “traditional” family ideology. Highlights a north/south divide in attitude and differing welfare policies and gender‐role beliefs.
China‐related POM research: a literature review and suggestions for future research
Authors: Jiang Bin , Frazier Gregory V. , Heiser Daniel
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the stream of China‐related POM research over 25 years (1980‐2005) to determine trends in quantity, topical coverage, research contribution, and data sources.

Design/methodology/approach

From 31 POM‐relevant journals, 144 articles were identified and classified across the four parameters. The data was also segregated into three time periods to facilitate comparison and analysis. Descriptive statistics were then generated to identify trends.

Findings

China‐related POM research has grown rapidly in the past 25 years. The topical coverage has expanded from an initial focus on strategy and policy issues to include quality, technology, and logistics management topics. The focus of articles has matured from a base of descriptive articles to include a growing emphasis on novel applications of POM techniques and new frameworks. Finally, the data sources tapped for the growing body of China‐related POM research has trended toward case studies and survey data.

Originality/value

This paper is one of the first to examine a body of literature related to one of the world's fastest growing, large economies. Based upon the findings, several areas worthy of future research related to operational risk, environmental issues, supply chain management, cultural issues, product and process development, technology transfer, service operations, and research methodology are identified.
The inescapable images: gender and advertising
Authors: Mayne Iris
Published: June 2007

Defines advertising and looks at the way it is part of the whole home environment. Considers the influence and power various media possess with particular emphasis on women. Addresses how advertising reinforces the existing power roles within society and questions if recent evidence shows any change in this position. Concludes that most individuals are aware of the unrealistic nature of some advertising but advertisers still often represent the “establishment” and stick to proven methods of success.
New developments concerning discrimination for whistle blowing
Authors: Kaplan Bruce , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Defines whistleblowing within the workplace environment. Lists the types of discrimination endured by a whistleblower. Considers the legislation designed to protect these invididuals together with brief case studies.
Preliminary analysis of the relationship between cultural diversity and technology in corporate America
Authors: Elmuti Dean
Published: June 2007

Addresses the issue of cultural diversity in the workplace. Covers the subjects of gender, multiculturalism and age‐related issues, providing a number of statistics for examples. Looks at the impact of technology in areas such as intranets, e‐mail and Web marketing, customer relationship management, virtual offices, automation and virtual teams. Examines the implications of these relationships for corporate America today and in the future.
Hospital restructuring and psychological burnout in nursing staff
Authors: Burke Ronald J. , Greenglass Esther R.
Published: June 2007

Examines the effects of hospital restructuring and downsizing on components of psychological burnout experienced by a predominantly female sample of hospital‐based nursing staff. Collects data from 1,362 staff nurses using anonymous questionnaires Considers three components of psychological burn‐out: emotional exhaustion, cynicism and prfessional efficacy. Includes three blocks of predictors: personal demographics, work situation characteristics, and three different measures of demands resulting from a restructuring experience. Concludes the experience of hospital restructuring and downsizing was consistently related to a high level of emotional exhaustion and cynicism, controlling for personal demographic and work situation characteristics.
New developments concerning discrimination based on medical conditions
Authors: Nguyen Thuy , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Discusses the definition of disability in law. Provides case studies to show the different “stakes” for the employer and the employee in determining what exactly is a “disability”. Looks in turn at HIV, pregnancy, civil rights, health insurance plans and the outcomes of recent litigation.
New developments concerning discrimination based on marital status
Authors: Kuta Michelle , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Cites marital status as an area of discrimination which is more complex than most. Looks at the changing place of women in the workplace before comparing the position of married couples in law. Gives case laws as examples of different relationships between individuals within a company. Concludes that there is still much inequity in such situations.
Analytical study of women’s participation in economic activities in Arab societies
Authors: El‐Ghannam Ashraf R.
Published: June 2007

Outlines important changes in the role of women in Arab societies, particularly in urban areas. Considers what factors impede or contribute to women’s work in all economic sectors in an attempt to explain and determine the relationship between their activities and social, educational, economic, cultural and health factors. Suggests that findings are related to family size, fertility rates, illiteracy and population per nurse. Recommends increasing job opportunuties and more labour saving technology as ways to increase opportunity for Arab women.
Ageism: no longer the equal opportunity stepchild
Authors: Cardinali Richard , Gordon Zandralyn
Published: June 2007

Looks briefly at the legal framework before considering the changing demographics across the world. Looks at campaigns to help the older worker. Considers the issue of mandatory retirement together with the complexities of age bias and way to prove that this exists. Cites some recent case law and concludes that it will only improve as the demographic moves in favour of the older worker.
Diversity and disability: exploring the experiences of vision impaired people in the workplace
Authors: Smith Theresa
Published: June 2007

Over the past decade managing diversity has emerged as a popular topic for analysis. However, much of the discussion concerning diversity has tended to focus on gender and race. Only limited attention has been centred on disabled people as a minority group in the workplace. One of the biggest challenges faced by disabled people is in obtaining and maintaining employment, particularly for those individuals with a vision impairment. The purpose of this research is to explore some of the issues faced by vision impaired people in the workplace in Australia. It outlines how, with certain accommodations to the workplace, vision impaired employees can be just as capable and efficient as their sighted counterparts. The major barrier still faced by disabled workers is overcoming the negative attitudes and misconceptions of colleagues and employers.
Statistical analysis for determining pay discrimination
Authors: Leutwiler Jennifer , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

The purpose of this article is to explore the historical differences in wages between different groups (women, minorities, older employees, and other distinct groups) and to analyse whether wage gaps are due to discrimination. Statistical data on wages, population, and education were accumulated from the US Department of Education, the US Department of Labor, and the US Census Bureau. Other reference materials were used to examine various theories for pay differences. Specifically, the gender wage gap is partially due to women’s domestic responsibilities and occupational sex‐typing. Race differences were found to have a correlation to education attainment. However, the wage gaps cannot completely be explained by other factors, indicating that negative stereotypes and discrimination do exist. The existence of discrimination is further supported by the growing number of pay discrimination lawsuits. In 2002, over $52 million was paid out by employers found guilty of employment discrimination in cases filed by the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. This article will define pay discrimination and examine ways to evaluate whether differences in pay are attributable to discrimination. Historical inequalities between men and women’s pay will be presented and evaluated in detail. Race differences between White, African‐American, Hispanic and Asian employees will be thoroughly addressed. Other less common forms of pay discrimination will also be covered. The analysis will reveal the non‐discriminatory as well as discriminatory reasons for differences in pay among individuals with similar aptitude and provide suggestions for improving the situation.
The entrepreneurial woman’s career model: current research and a typological framework
Authors: Perrin Moore Dorothy
Published: June 2007

The Center for Women’s Business Research estimates women are now the majority owners in 6.7 million privately held businesses in the United States and equal owners in another 4.0 million firms. When part owners in multiple businesses are included the female ownership total climbs to an estimated 15.6 million businesses. Women majority owners account for nearly half (48 per cent) of the privately‐held firms in the United States. Their businesses generate $2.46 trillion in sales. They employ 19.1 million people and spend an estimated $492 billion on salaries and $54 billion on employee benefits. The number of women‐owned firms increases at twice the rate of all new firms (14 per cent versus 7 per cent) and the number of employees nearly as fast (30 per cent versus 18 per cent). Women owners are rapidly moving into all industries, with the fastest growth percentages in the fields of construction (30 per cent), transportation, communications and public utilities (28 per cent) and agricultural services (24 per cent). Worldwide, with women entrepreneurs in under developed countries leading the way, women‐owned firms now comprise between one‐fourth and one‐third of all businesses. Given the numbers, it would be almost impossible to overestimate the impact of women owned businesses in today’s global economy.
Workforce diversity and organisational performance
Authors: Von Bergen C.W. , Soper Barlow , Parnell John A.
Published: June 2007

Many managers and scholars agree that diversity is a positive factor that leads to competitive economic advantage for organisations. However, this assertion remains largely untested. To examine the implied relationship between firm performance and diversity, performance at minority‐friendly organisations was compared to that at other organisations within the same industry. Results indicated that minority friendly firms significantly outperformed the market, indicating that diversity in organisations may be related to economic success. This finding has significant strategic implications.
A theoretical integration of sexual harassment models
Authors: Whaley Gary L. , Tucker Shirley H.
Published: June 2007

Reports research statistics that reveal that half of all working women are likely to suffer some form of sexual harassment during their careers, particularly those in non‐traditional posts. Outlines different explanatory theories for sexual harassment proposed in current literature, focusing in particular on socio‐cultural, organizational and individual differences models, and seeks to examine the interaction between various factors identified. Discusses the main effects of power distance, attitudes towards women and gender/job match on sexual harassment, and develops models of sexual harassment behaviour to examine the interaction between these three factors for women with male supervisors in traditional and non‐traditional roles, identifying the circumstances in which quid pro quo and hostile environment sexual harassment are most likely and most unlikely to occur. Illustrates how the different factors involved foster different kinds of sexual harassment at different levels of severity, and concludes that multiple strategies are required to address such behaviour.
The basics of employment discrimination
Authors: Phan Ben , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Introduces employment discrimination and the various US acts to fight this. Looks, particularly, at the Equal Employment Opportunity Committee (EEOC), created in 1964 to enforce the laws against employment discrimination. Discusses the make up of this federal committee and how it operates on behalf of the individual. Further discusses and highlights the main categories which are: sexual harassment; race/colour discrimination; age discrimination; national origin discrimination; and fills out the Americans with Disabilities Act, giving all the relevant information required to take action against employers. Gives further examples of complaints procedures and how to use them. Concludes that employees have many more safeguards now than previously and that firms now have to respect the individual or “pay” the consequences.
How to determine proper corrective action following sexual harassment investigations
Authors: Jensen Kurt , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Argues that there is a wide range of ways to resolve sexual harassment cases in the USA, and that the severity of the action taken against perpetrators should fit the seriousness of the offence. Sets out the legal framework which should guide an employer in the decision. Presents a classification of sexual harassment which could be used to guide employers on the severity of a sexual harassment incident, explaining how this should be looked at alongside frequency when deciding what action to take. Underlines the need to take into account the victim’s interests in the case, advising employers to give the victim as much information as possible on the progress of the case. Also advises on how to take into consideration the interests of the harrassor. Lists the possible actions the employer can take to make sure that the harassment does not occur again. Looks at the possibility that either the victim of the perpetrator may be dissatisfied with the way that the employer has dealt with the case and advises on the use of mediation or arbitration in these circumstances.
How to conduct sexual harassment training effectively
Authors: Doan Han , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Defines sexual harassment and covers the Federate State legislation with which any training must comply. Advises on the development of a company policy emphasizing prevention and liabilities.
Sex discrimination in hiring
Authors: Chien Emily , Kleiner Brian H.
Published: June 2007

Defines sex discrimination and looks at where it can be found within the hiring process. Outlines Federal and California State law and considers ways this discrimination can be minimized.
Material compliance and conditional break clauses: some implications for practice
Authors: Mansfield John R. , Robinson James S.
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to examine the awareness and understanding of break clause management by small business tenants in the light of the Appeal Court decision in Fitzroy House Epworth Street (No. 1) Ltd and another v. The Financial Times Ltd [2006].

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical data were collected using detailed questionnaires distributed to occupational tenants in three sub‐markets across the West Midlands. The questionnaire incorporated Likert‐scale and close‐response questions.

Findings

The general conclusions were that the tenants surveyed were dangerously unaware of the barriers that exist in trying to effect break clauses, a position exacerbated by the decision in Fitzroy.

Practical implications

The research points to an increasing need for tenants to be made more aware of the technical and management problems that surround the option to determine clause.

Originality/value

The paper offers an applied examination in an important aspect of contemporary lease management. It provides a platform on which to base further studies in other geographical areas for comparative and aggregate purposes.
The use of environmental management as a facilities management tool in the Macao hotel sector
Authors: Yim King Penny Wan
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the extent to which environmental management (EM) has been used as a facilities management (FM) tool amongst hotels in Macao, China. It also seeks to assess the relative priorities of hotel facilities managers in relation to the environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical data was collected via structured questionnaires distributed to facilities/general managers of hotels in Macao.

Findings

The research findings reveal that although low customer demand, poor environmental knowledge and the lack of governmental regulations enforcing environmental practices are the reasons hindering hoteliers in Macao from practicing green, the major barrier is that hotel managers do not recognize the importance of environmental management to hotel effectiveness and competitiveness. Consequently, hotels are only interested in improving areas where there are direct financial gains and where there is a fiscal/legislative requirement. A fragmented approach to managing their environmental performance is also resulted.

Practical implications

This paper provides a comprehensive discussion of the roles played by environmental management in improving a hotel's productivity and competitiveness and recommends ways to increase hoteliers' understanding of those roles.

Originality/value

There is a scarcity of literature linking hotel FM and environmental management within the Asian context, especially within Macao. This study sheds light on the extent to which environmental management has been used as a FM tool amongst hotels in Macao. It also contributes to our understanding of the importance of improving a hotel's environmental performance for organizational effectiveness and competitiveness. This paper provides a good background and framework for future studies.
Cultural openness and consumer ethnocentrism: an empirical analysis of Turkish consumers
Authors: Hakan Altintaş Murat , Tokol Tuncer
Published: June 2007

Purpose

To examine the antecedents of consumer ethnocentrism, specifically with respect to Turkish consumers' attitudes to products originating in Europe.

Design/methodology/approach

Antecedents identified from the literature are allocated to one of three main constructs: xenophobia, negative attitudes towards foreigners (not the same phenomenon, it is argued) and conservatism. A web‐based questionnaire is developed, tested and successfully administered to a national sample of 540 individuals with e‐mail accounts. Consumer ethnocentrism is measured by the well‐tested CETSCALE. Results are analyzed by structural equation modelling, a path diagram generated and six hypotheses tested.

Findings

All but one of the hypotheses were accepted. Xenophobia is found to have the greatest influence consumer ethnocentrism among Turkish consumers, and is also a leading factor in the interactions among the antecedents. Conservatism is the second‐most influential element of the model.

Research limitations/implications

Other antecedents might have been identified and added to the conceptual framework. The timeframe of data collection was very specific. The large sample size and its apparent representativeness encourage confident generalisation of the findings, though the concept of “Europe” could usefully be refined to specific countries in future studies.

Practical implications

International marketers now have clear evidence that xenophobia and conservatism are important antecedents of consumer ethnocentrism, and should plan their intelligence gathering and campaign strategy accordingly.

Originality/value

This study both supports and adds to the existing literature. The findings clearly impinge on the somewhat separate literature of country‐of‐origin effects and branding.
Controversies of technology convergence within the European Union
Authors: Žižmond Egon , Novak Matjaž
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This paper aims to provide empirical evidence on technology convergence within economies of the European Union which is usable for determining the economic growth policy aimed at sustainable long‐run economic growth and the convergence of the development between EU‐member states.

Design/methodology/approach

Two different empirical procedures are applied by estimating the technology convergence within the European Union on Eurostat data set. The first is framework developed by Dowrick and Nguyen. The second one is the authors' original contribution to the methodology which is based on the frontier production functions.

Findings

Significant technology convergence is recognized between 15 old EU‐member states and eight new‐member states. However, the technology convergence has obviously not accelerated the convergence of gross domestic product per labor unit between exposed groups of economies. Technical inefficiency is recognized as the main source that impedes a spill‐over effect of technology convergence. Following this it is established that in the future more effort should be directed into elimination of technical inefficiency.

Originality/value

Presented findings can be used to arrange the economic policy measures aimed at accelerating technology development in case of European Union.
Self‐assessment of conflict management in client‐supplier collaborative new product development
Authors: Lam Ping‐Kit , Chin Kwai‐Sang , Yang Jian‐Bo , Liang Weitao
Published: June 2007

Purpose

This research paper aims to present the critical managerial issues and a self‐assessment system of conflict management in client‐supplier collaborative new product development (NPD) environment.

Design/methodology/approach

Critical managerial issues and success factors for conflict management in client‐supplier collaborative NPD were first identified. A self‐assessment process and associated methodologies were then established. With the development of a prototype self‐assessment system, the proposed self‐assessment methodologies and process were validated in industry.

Findings

A total of 13 critical factors for conflict management in client‐supplier collaborative NPD environment were identified. Based on the hierarchy model of the factors, a self‐assessment system and process, called PAIR, was established. The proposed self‐assessment system and process was developed and validated with six companies with positive results.

Originality/value

Conflict is an inevitable phenomenon in client‐supplier collaborative NPD, which affects NPD performance in terms of product quality, meeting of target delivery schedule and development cost. The developed system and process enables clients and suppliers to assess their conflict management practices and identify improvement areas. It provides a platform for the collaborating parties to continually improve their conflict management and in turn NPD performance.
Identifying the drivers behind housing preferences of first‐time owners
Authors: Reed Richard , Mills Anthony
Published: June 2007

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a rare insight into the motivation behind first‐time buyers when looking to purchase their first home. The factors driving demand preferences for detached housing are constantly changing and difficult to measure, and often deemed to be a complex bundle of attributes.

Design/methodology/approach

The research in this paper is based on interviews with purchasers at a series of locations across Melbourne, Australia, who were actively seeking to purchase a home for the first time. The data were analysed using factor analysis to identify the core decision criteria in a new house that were most sought after.

Findings

The findings in this paper confirmed that “financial” issues accounted for approximately 30 percent of the actual decision by first‐time buyers to purchase housing, where decisions relating to the timing and choice of housing are dependent on “site‐specific” factors.

Research limitations/implications

The research in this paper is aimed specifically at first time buyers only and the influencing factors behind their purchasing decisions.

Practical implications

The paper shows that, if consideration is given to the characteristics that first‐time owners are looking for, providers of new housing would be better equipped to meet this demand and maximise construction efficiency.

Originality/value

In the paper the emphasis was placed on identifying and analysing the decision criteria behind first‐time buyers, which provided an invaluable insight into their concept of a suitable residence. Rather than analysing sales transactions after they have been completed, this research considers aspects of new houses that first‐time owners are actively searching for, prior to making their purchase.
The effect of information literacy on the utilization of electronic information resources in selected academic and research institutions in Uganda
Authors: Annet Kinengyere Alison
Published: June 2007

Purpose

Uganda has gone a step forward in ensuring that information resources available for researchers and students are maximally utilized. Academic and research libraries are participating in supporting and achieving the missions of their respective institutions by teaching the competency of information literacy (IL). This paper seeks to examine the effect IL has had on the usage of electronic information resources in academic and research institutions in Uganda. It aims to focus on the innovations that Makerere University Library (the biggest and oldest academic library in Uganda) has undertaken to ensure that library users (the Makerere University community and other collaborating universities and research institutions in Uganda) are trained on how to access a variety of available information resources, evaluate the information and apply it to address their needs.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected for the study using interviews to both library staff and users of the selected institutions: two library staff in charge of e‐resources and ten students/researchers were interviewed from each institution. However, user statistics for the years 2004‐2005, as well as the IL training sessions conducted, were the main sources of information. The study focused on academic and research institutions – Makerere University, Uganda, Martyrs University, Nkozi and National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS). The researcher is physically involved in the IL program in Makerere University. The usage statistics were compiled and interpreted.

Findings

The paper finds that availability of information does not necessarily mean actual use. The study shows that some of the available resources have not been utilized at all. This means that users are not aware of the availability of such resources, they do not know how to access them, or they do not know what the resources offer. All this calls for continued information literacy programs. IL is very vital in influencing utilization of e‐resources. Information professionals are needed to pass on IL skills to library users, while library users should endeavor to find out what information is available online for their consumption. Their attitudes and perceptions also influence the level of utilization.

Originality/value

The paper shows the extent of information literacy and its influence on electronic resources in Uganda. It points out the challenges for the future and provides a number of recommendations for the way forward, which will be helpful both to the relevant communities in Uganda and to other academics in similar circumstances.