Deaths Head, Cherub, Urn and Willow The Views of Religion and Death in 1720â€1820

The science of archeology appears to demonstrate remarkable insights into the ways of cultural development by analyzing the simplest artifacts. For understanding the cultural changes in the colonial New England, a curious detective work can be carried out upon gravestones. Reflecting the change in the views of death both in their form and contents, gravestones bear valuable and trustworthy information about the cultural, the religious, and the social perspectives of the time.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Death’s Head, Cherub, Urn and Willow: The Views of Religion and Death in 1720–1820 specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The view of death in the Puritan community of New England changed dramatically throughout the seventeenth and eighteenth century. The first Puritan settlers faced hunger and epidemics that took lives of thousands of adults and children. In view of severe hardships the Puritan commun ity envisaged death as a terrifying and grave event that would send most of people to the pits of hell (Ray, 2010). Death was feared of and considered as God’s punishments for one’s sins that came inevitably without any hope of salvation (Mintz, 2003). Eventually, with the onset of the Great Awakening in 1720s, the Puritans altered their views of death and started treating it as a reunion with God and one’s ancestors secured by life of deep piety (Mintz, 2003). Several decades later, after the American Revolution and the archeological discoveries at Pompeii, death appeared as nothing more than a temporary separation with one’s nearest and dearest (Mintz, 2003). The abovementioned changes in the views of religion and death was directly reflected in the design of gravestones. Until the early eighteenth century, echoing the bleak prospects on the afterlife shared by the early Puritans, the gravestones featured nothing else but a winged death skull engraved o n them. For the Puritans who disapproved of any graphic depiction of religious ideas, the death skull was a most neutral reminder of mortality, emphasizing the frailty of human beings and the brevity of life (Deetz Dethlefsen, 1967). The epitaphs on the bottoms of the gravestones laid stress on the Calvinistic ideals of hard work and exemplary behaviour. During the Great Awakening, more liberal views set in among the Protestants, and they started to emphasize the ideas of resurrection and salvation both in the epitaphs and in the design of the gravestone. The inscriptions started to feature the words â€Å"Here lies the body of†¦Ã¢â‚¬  in order to demonstrate that only the perishable flesh was buried and the immortal soul got its reward in paradise; and the dreary death head was replaced by a carving of winged cherub (Deetz Dethlefsen, 1967). The late eighteenth century witnessed the revival of interest in Greek art, and such republican symbols as urns and willows appeared on the gravestones which then acquired the square shoulders of a classical outline, as compared to the round-shouldered outline featured a century before (Deetz Dethlefsen, 1967).Advertising Looking for essay on history? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The investigation into grave art reveals a number of issues about the religious and social changes in the Puritan society of New England. On the one hand, the design of cherubs appears mostly on the graves of high status individuals. This means that innovation in gravestone design was introduced through the cosmopolitan social stratum. On the other hand, the ease with which the new design spread in the more rural areas signifies the low resistance to change in those regions that demonstrated readiness to accept the modifications of orthodox Puritanism. In addition, certain modifications in gravestone design are rare in children’s burials, which implies the conservative a pproach to children entombment. Through watching the change in gravestone design, archeologists can arrive at a number of conclusions about the Puritan society of New England. The cultural change in religion, shifting the emphasis from mortality to immortality, and the social nature of design choice are all indicated through gravestone design. References Deetz, J., Dethlefsen, E. S. (1967). Death’s head, cherub, urn and willow [Electronic version]. Natural History, 76(3) 1967, 29–37. Retrieved from http://www.histarch.illinois.edu/plymouth/deathshead.html Mintz, S. (2003). Death in early America. In Digital History. Web. Ray, M. (2010, October 12). Digital stories about American history [The Puritans]. Digital History. Video episode retrieved from web. This essay on Death’s Head, Cherub, Urn and Willow: The Views of Religion and Death in 1720–1820 was written and submitted by user Michaela Howe to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Columbine should they restrict cliques essays

Columbine should they restrict cliques essays Throughout the country, in each and every school there are cliques the development of cliques is inevitable. While some cliques deliberately exclude people, most cliques include a group of friends who are very close. As a result the people who are left out of a clique feel lonely and angry. Many outsiders are taunting them every day, which only makes them angrier. Eventually these people snap and take their anger out innocent people. The Columbine shooting proves that. To prevent this the high schools need to establish rules, though not to the extreme. The two killers of Columbine High School were excluding from almost all groups. Anger built up in them and they took action. As a result, almost all high schools decided to enforce the zero tolerance for crime. For example, one high school expelled a boy because he wrote a story about a boy who went on a rampage in literature class. This course of action was too extreme. The high school should have take in consideration whether the boy was a problem student before expelling him. There is really no way you can prevent cliques, just like there is no way you can force a child to be friends with another child. However, there are ways to diminish their destructiveness. Schools should require that everyone has to be included in a school extra curricular activity like sports, drama or newspaper. A school can develop new extra curricular activities pertaining to what the students want. Teachers should also give group assignments or projects and pre-arrange the partners for everyone. These are just some ways to get the kids on the fringe feel a part of a group. One other problem even bigger than cliques is the students part of the in cliques taunt or make fun of the other students who are not in their group. The school should have a rule that if a person picks on another person, they should either be suspended off a team or sus ...

Sustainability Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Sustainability - Assignment Example Sustainable environment not only brings satisfaction to the needs of the current/present generation but also the needs of the future generations Environmental sustainability creates a balance between the varying needs of the changing and growing and changing population and natural resources’ ability to support the growth. With the dynamic nature of the technology, environmental sustainability is fast becoming a priority in many companies nowadays. According to Raghda (2013), many countries have begun to understand the forests, land, open space, agricultural soils, and clean air are important natural resources that must be managed and conserved responsibly. They are fast implementing critical issues on development practices and land use that aims at promoting and preserving their continued availability not only for the present generation but for future generations as well. With sustainable environment, businesses and other stakeholders are beginning to understand that the social, economic, and environmental characteristic of the various things we consume and create is not only measured by their initial costs but also by the benefits and costs. Sustainable environmental practices are vital for smart growth. In order for a business to compete favorably in the global context, it must embrace smart growth. Smart growth offers not only best natural environment but also it provides highest standards of living. Sustainable environment practices play a critical role in our surrounding in addition to preserving opportunities for our future generations. Therefore, the decisions we make now will definitely impact on our future generations. The tourism sector is one that is fast incorporating the concept of sustainable environment. New Zealand for instance, has greatly thrived in the tourism sector due to its continued sustainability

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Describe one social work method and how you could use it in practice - Essay Example Social case work is identified as a form of ‘one to one relationship’ based on which social workers make efforts in terms of understanding the factors resulting to complications within human lives (Sajid, 2012; Schwartz & et. al., 1975; Richmond, 1922). In this context, to adopt social case work in practice, I would perform social case work with the assistance of social workers in the community. The practice of social case work would be based on certain procedure that include assessment, study, evaluation and application of appropriate procedures based on which social case work activities are to be conducted. Additionally, the practice of social case work should be conducted in accordance with guiding principles and standards that include ethical values and knowledge among others (National Association of Social Workers, 2013; Perlman, 1957; NCBI, n.d.). It can be comprehended that social case work acts as a comprehensive tool in terms of developing the overall situation of individuals having difficulties in aligning with surrounding environment both in terms of physical and social perspective. In this regard, the practice of social case work is required to be conducted on the basis of certain procedure, so that care and treatment is offered appropriately. LinkedIn Corporation, 2014. Social Case Work. Celebrating the Dignity & Worth of Every Individual. [Online] Available at: http://www.slideshare.net/srengasamy/social-case-work-main [Accessed September 22, 2014]. Social Care Institute for Excellence, 2014. End of Life - Ideas for Practice: Case Study the Importance of Social Work Support. Home. [Online] Available at: http://www.scie.org.uk/adults/endoflifecare/ideasforpractice/socialworksupport.asp [Accessed September 22,

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Asthma. Pathologic basis of disease - Research Paper Example Asthma can be divided into different groups on the basis of severity of attacks that are mild intermittent, mild, moderate and severe persistent asthma. But typically the asthma is classified into extrincsic asthma and intrinsic asthma. Extrinsic asthma is set off by type 1 hypersensitivity reaction caused by an extrinsic antigen. Intrinsic asthma is initiated by various mechanisms including pulmonary infections caused by viruses especially, cold, stress, exercise and inhaled irritants. Some categories classify asthma in accordance to the agent that causes the constriction of air passages for example seasonal asthma, exercise asthma, occupational asthma, drug induced asthma and asthmatus bronchitis. The genetic susceptibility to type 1 hypersensitivity, chronic inflammation and bronchial hypersensitivity are the major factors that cause asthma. Our immune system contains Type 2 helper T cells (Th2) which is type of CD4+ helper T cell secretes interleukins. The interleukins then promote allergic inflammations and stimulate B cells to produce IgE and different antibodies. Type 1 helper T cells (Th1) are also a type of CD4+ helper T cell which secretes interferon-ÃŽ ³ (gamma) and intereukin-2. The interferon-ÃŽ ³ (gamma) and interleukin-2 activates the macrophages and cytotoxic T cells which kills the viruses and other invading organisms. These two types of helper T cells form an immunoregulatory loop that is the cytokines from type 1 helper T cells inhibit type 2 helper T cells and cytokines from type 2 helper T cells inhibit type 1 helper T cells. These two types of helper T cells respond to different immunogenic stimuli and try to destroy them. Any imbalance in the regulatory loop of these two types of helper T cells makes it easier for the viruses and agents to attack the bronchopulmonary tree and cause inflammation which leads to asthma. In patient suffering from hypersensitivity as occur in asthma, when an antigen is presented to the skin, a wheal and flare reaction occurs. This wheal and flare reaction is clear example of hypersensitivity type 1. In air passages when the allergen reaches the epithelial lining it stimulates the induction of type 2 helper T cells (Th2). The type 2 helper T cells secrete various cytokines such as interleukin 4 (IL-4) and interleukin 5 (IL-5). The interleukin 4 (IL-4) then triggers the production of immunoglobulin IgE by the B cells and promotes the growth of mast cells. The interleukin 5 promotes the growth and activation of eosinophills. The reaction mediated by IgE to the allergens elicit an acute response and late phase reaction. The acute response to the allergens consist of bronchoconstriction, edema, mucous secret ion and in rare cases the decrease of blood pressure. The acute response occurs by this mechanism; the contact of antigens to the mast cells stimulates the secretion of mediators which mediate the reaction. In the case of air passage diseases when the allergens reach the mucosal surface, the reaction of allergens first occurs with the mucosal mast cells. In this reaction mediators are secreted which opens the tight junction in between the mucosal cells and improve the entrance of the antigens to the submucosal mast cells. This reaction causes the broncoconstriction, edema and mucous secretion which is acute response. Vagal stimulation in lungs also called bronchoconstrictio

A Case Study At The HSBC

A Case Study At The HSBC Chapter 1 Literature Review 1.1 Overview of Corporate Social Responsibility The notion that business has duties to society is firmly well-established, despite the fact that in the past there has been a revolution in the way people view the relationship between business and society. Numerous researchers suggest that companies which indulge in corporate social responsibility obtain consumers positive product and brand evaluations, brand choice, brand recommendations, good attitude to firm, good image of the firm, purchase intention and even enjoy a premium price. Spurred at least in part by such evidences, more companies than ever before are backing CSR initiatives such as corporate philanthropy, cause-related marketing, minority support programs, and socially responsible employment and manufacturing practices with real financial muscle. Not surprisingly, this trend is also reflected in the pervasive belief among business leaders that CSR is an economic imperative in todays national as well as global marketplace. However despite the increasing importance of CSR, there is little research available about CSRs impact on consumers. According to Yoon (2003), it is not clear when and how CSR activities influence consumer evaluations. Recent researchers have suggested that a CSR activity might backfire on the company if the consumers have become suspicious and infer that the companys true motive for the CSR activity is only to improve its image to sell more products without trying to act for the sake of consumers 1.1.1 Defining Corporate Social Responsibility According to Kotler (1991), Corporate social responsibility is about doing business in a way that maintains or improves both the customers and societys well being; Fombrun and Gordberg (2000)s point of view is that, corporate social Responsibility is something that no sane chairman should be without. On the other hand, Petkus and Woodruff (1992) believe CSR includes both avoiding harm and doing good. Corporate social responsibility is viewed as a companys commitment to minimize or eliminate any harmful effects and maximizing its long run beneficial impact on society. Corporate social responsibility activities include numerous factors; namely meeting customer expectations, demonstrating commitment to environmental responsibility, improved environmental performance, staying ahead of the legislation, and increased employee motivation. Mohr, Webb, and Harris (2001, 47) define CSR as a companys commitment to minimizing or eliminating any harmful effects and maximizing its long-run beneficial impact on society. Though, Angelidis and Ibrahim (1993) define corporate social responsibility as corporate social actions whose purpose is to satisfy social needs, Lerner and Fryxell (1988) suggest that CSR describes the extent to which organizational outcomes are consistent with societal values and expectations. While some view CSR as an obligation, others, namely: Enderle Tavis (1998) define corporate social responsibility as the policy and practice of a corporations social involvement over and beyond its legal obligations for the benefit of the society at large. 1.1.2 Dimensions of Social Responsibility The dimension of social responsibility was propounded by Carroll (1979). It was proposed that organisations have to have 4 pillars that must be fulfilled to be good corporate citizens. They are: Economic Dimension. Economic responsibility is to be profitable for principals, by delivering a good quality product, at a fair price, is due to customers. Legal Dimension. Legal duties entail complying with the law and playing by the rules of the game. Ethical Dimension. Ethical duties overcome the limitations of legal duties. They entail being moral, doing what is right, just, and fair; respecting peoples moral rights; and avoiding harm or social injury as well as preventing harm caused by others (Smith and Quelch, 1993). Philanthropic Dimension. Interest in doing good for society, regardless of its impact on the bottom line is what is called philanthropic CSR that is giving back time and money in the forms of voluntary service, voluntary association and voluntary. 1.2 Evolution of the CSR concept. Even relatively contemporary, a theory of CSR can be divided into four eras based on several conceptual shifts (Lee, 2008). The first dominant theme emerged during 1950s and 1960s concentrating on ethics and social obligation of business. A pivotal study by Bowen (1953) contended that CSR is an obligation of businessmen to act in line with the objectives and values of society. CSR was posited as a complementary and corrective measure for some social failures in the laissez-faire economy. Friedman on the other hand was concerned with the insufficient skills of corporate managers to solve social problems and potential cost from uncertain outcomes that would reduce the maximization of shareholder wealth a true responsibility of business. Such an intellectual stalemate contributed to the shift from the emphasis on macro-social effects of CSR to an organizational-level analysis of CSRs effect on financial performance. CSR in the second period was central around enlightened self-interest in the 1970s. A conceptual breakthrough by Wallich and McGowan (1970) represented reconciliation between the social and economic interests of corporations. The authors argued that CSR supported the long-term interest of shareholders by strengthening the wellbeing of the society, which provided a crucial support structure and customer base for business operations. Most studies in this era focused on the content and implementation process of CSR to avoid conflict with business interests (Ackerman, 1973; Fitch, 1976; Murray, 1976). A major caveat in this conceptual reconciliation was the lack of a specific mechanism to identify a causal link between social responsibility and financial performance (Weick, 1976). In the 1980s, the tie between the economic and social goals of business became tighter in the corporate social performance model. The dominant theme represented the thirdgeneration of CSR. The multi-dimensional model of corporate social performance was proposed in a pivotal study by Carroll (1979). This model suggested the integration of economic and social objectives in a total CSR framework, featuring economic, legal, ethical and discretionary aspects. The model was modified by Wartick and Cochran (1985) to include principles, processes and policies. Wood (1991) further formulated a more pragmatic model incorporating related theories, such as organizational institutionalism and stakeholder management theory. The limitation of the CSP model was the lack of objective and behavioral measurement to be able to compare the social performance of different companies (Wood and Jones, 1995). An aim to generate business return from CSR is most prominent in the latest development of CSR through strategic management. In this perspective, the stakeholder model has become central to the new CSR paradigm (Jones, 1995). Based on the stakeholder theory (Freeman, 1984), Clarkson (1995) ameliorated the measurement problem in CSR through stakeholder identification, separation of stakeholder and social issues, followed by appropriate level of analysis. CSR becomes strategic when integrated into a companys core business competencies by serving as a filter through which strategic decisions are evaluated for their impact on the firms various stakeholders (Werther and Chandler, 2006). Strategic CSR then matches internal core competencies with the external opportunities to complement corporate mission and vision related to social responsibility (Du et al., 2007; Werther and Chandler, 2006). 1.3 CSR and Stakeholders According to Smith (2003), stakeholder theory is based on the principle that companies need to consider the effects of their actions on all constituencies (e.g. shareholders, customers, employees, suppliers, the environment, and the community), even if profitability is reduced. On the contrary, shareholder theory argues that the only responsibility of a company is to (legally) make profits for its shareholders. Mitchell (2001) argues that the shareholder approach increasingly dominates American companies. Furthermore, it is often interpreted as having one basic goal-maximizing stock prices. This, in turn, leads to a short-term perspective because growing proportions of Stockholders buy and sell stocks based on short-term information. Mitchell goes on to argue that companies are obligated to make profits, but there is nothing in the legal system that requires maximization of stock prices or that restricts the time frame to the short term. Nonetheless, a manager who does not produce sufficient earnings for shareholders risks his/her job and puts the company at risk of a takeover (Martin 2002). Martin (2002) further argues that when responsibilities to the community are seen as being likely to come at the shareholders expense, managers usually side with shareholders. He suggests that most socially responsible corporate behaviors are done specifically to enhance shareholder value. These are generally activities undertaken to comply with laws, regulations, or norms. They entail simply meeting the baseline of societys expectations; companies that do not meet basic expectations are likely to lose financially. On the other hand, there are many socially responsible actions taken by companies because managers believe they are the right things to do. Because these actions are outside the norms and may lead to financial losses, they are considered risky. 1.4 Social responsibility, Business Ethics and Corporate Governance. 1.4.1 Social Responsibility and Business Ethics Today, ethics has become more and more important with global business expansion. This is so, because of a raise in ethical and social responsibility concerns. There exists, however, according to Czinkota and Ronkainen (1998), a wide divergence in the level of importance attached to these two issues in different countries. Ethics as defined by Hoffman and Moore (1990) define ethics as what is good and right for people. An individuals perception about whether ethics and social responsibility contribute to organizational effectiveness is likely to be a critical antecedent of whether he/she even perceives an ethical problem in a given situation  [1]  . This is a practical view based on an argument that managers must first recognize that ethics and social responsibility to be imperative to organizational effectiveness before their behaviors will become more ethical and reflect greater social responsibility. Intuitively, ethics and social responsibility should have a positive impact on the success of an organization, because consumers make ethical judgments that are likely to influence their purchases. Consumers recognize organisations that are responsive to ethical and social factors. Consequently, business should care about ethics because adopting the right behaviour helps acquire and preserve good reputation overtime; because ultimately, it pays to do so. 1.4.2 Social Responsibility and Corporate Governance The definition of Corporate Governance differs depending on ones view of the world. Shleifer and Vishny (1997) define Corporate Governance as the ways in which suppliers of finance to corporations assure themselves of getting a return on their investment. Taking a broad perspective on the issues, Gillan and Starks (1998) define Corporate Governance as the system of laws, rules, and factors that control operations at a company. Irrespective of the particular definition used, researchers often view Corporate Governance mechanisms as falling into one of two groups: those internal to firms and those external to firms. Of course, firms are more than just boards, managers, shareholders, and debt holders. Over the years, Corporate Governance has evolved from the traditional profit-centered model to the social responsibility model. These two models illustrate the fundamental conflict that prevails today in Corporate Governance the Profit-Centered Model and the Social Responsibility Model are mutually exclusive. Each focuses on an opposite half of the corporations domain, even though the economic and social aspects of business are closely interrelated. In short, governance is viewed as a zero sum game. Because the economic role of the firm is fundamental to its survival, profit often drives out social considerations. Because knowledge increases when shared, collaborative partnerships between management and stakeholders can be economically productive. Like all partnerships, stakeholder collaboration is a two-way, working relationship that combines the capabilities of partners for their mutual benefit. According to Halal (2000), the wealth-creating role of business arises directly out of integrating stakeholders into a productive whole a corporate community (Figure 1). The corporate community model views the firm as a socioeconomic system in which wealth is created through stakeholder collaboration. This is not done to be socially responsible, but because it is a competitive advantage. Drew et al. (2006) identified five integrated elements that underpin a firms ability to manage risks, engage in effective Corporate Governance, and implement new regulatory changes: Culture, Leadership, Alignment, Systems, and Structure. Each of these elements relate to the others. For example, organizational culture is shaped by leadership practices. Systems support organizational structure and shape its culture. Alignment ensures each element is harmonized with the others so that, for example, explicit cultural norms are reinforced by leadership, and systems reinforce the culture. No one element s tands alone. After engaging in an examination process, board members can map organizational challenges against these elements, identify areas in need of improvement, and plan change management programs. Superior risk management programs and stronger firm governance capabilities result. The elements of CG addressed in Figure 2 could be considered as the core (i.e. management) of Figure 1 (i.e. corporate community model). Combining the models therefore represents the influence of Corporate Governance on CSR or corporate community. Figure 1 The basic cause of todays continuing conflict between profitability and responsibility is that managers do not seem to understand that these two interests can be united. Stakeholder collaboration is now the key to creating economic wealth. In the new perspective, stakeholder collaboration does more than gain resources and political support; it allows joint problem solving to increase the firms store of valuable knowledge. Future research needs to focus on the stakeholder assessment process and its translation into CSR objectives and policies. Therefore, adopting a process-based management systems approach as the foundation for a CSR management system will provide top management with a holistic view of the business that takes into consideration a single system approach to governance. This approach will provide management with internal control, clearly identify responsibility and will embed CSR in their organisation. This approach overcomes much of the criticism surrounding many current CSR systems approaches. Figure 2 The leadership style is also found to play an important role in socially responsible organizations. In this respect, transformational leader seems to be more effective, comparing with manager and transactional leader. Thus corporate governance as a critical element for driving excellence in CSR can be a source of competitive advantage for firms in its own right. 1.5 Consumer Behavior or Socially Responsible Consumer Behavior It has been observed that several personality trait variables affect how a consumer reacts to a companys corporate social responsibility activities. One trait that has been identified is called socially responsible or socially conscious consumer behavior. The socially conscious consumer is a consumer who takes into account the public consequences of his or her private consumption or who attempts to use his or her purchasing power, to bring about social change. According to Webster (1975, 188), the socially conscious consumer is a consumer who takes into account the public consequences of his or her private consumption or one who attempts to use his or her purchasing power to bring about social change. Mohr, Webb, and Harris (2001, 47) define this behavior as a person basing his or her acquisition, usage, and disposition of products on a desire to minimize or eliminate any harmful effects and maximize the long-run beneficial impact on society. Over the years, socially responsible consumer behavior has been seen as a lasting personality trait that engrosses the consumers self-concept. Persons, who are high on this trait, would not hesitate to modify their consumption behaviors in a variety of circumstances in order to struggle toward the ideal of improving society. Much research has been conducted on this trait. Measurement scales have not only been developed but related demographics and attitudes have also been explored. Roberts (1995) used the method of cluster analysis to segregate a group of socially responsible consumers. He estimated them to constitute 32% of the American population. According to him, when one compares this group to most Americans, the latter is more broadminded and environmentally concerned and has higher levels of perceived consumer effectiveness (perceived ability of individual consumers to influence environmental problems). 1.6 The Impact of CSR Activities on Consumer Behavior Consumers need to be aware of the level of CSR of a company so that this factor can have an impact on their purchase. The reason why, building awareness constitutes one of the major purposes behind cause related marketing which is a subset of CSR. Also, consumers are more likely to respond to a companys social responsibility record when they identify with the company  [2]  . Identification is enhanced when consumer perceptions of the companys character are similar to their perceptions of their own character. It is further argued that consumers judge a companys character based more on its CSR than on its business expertise. When consumers personally support the social issues that the company targets (called support for the CSR domain), they are likely to see greater congruence between themselves and the company. In two experiments, CSR was manipulated and its effects on the evaluation of the company were measured. They found that consumer support for the CSR domain significantly moderated the positive effect of CSR on evaluation. Ross, Stutts, and Patterson (199091), who used a non-probability sample, found that 53 percent of the sample, could recall a cause related advertisement for a product, and Webb and Mohr (1998) found that 79 percent of a sample could describe a specific cause-related marketing campaign after the concept was explained to them. Since CSR is a wide and multifaceted concept, knowledge about the social responsibility activities carried out by companies is relatively low. As a result, it is hard for consumers to acquire and store such information. Lack of awareness, therefore becomes the major inhibitor of customer awareness to CSR. Since 1993, according to reported surveys, firms supporting causes are enjoying a more positive image compared to other firms. Furthermore, the Cone Communications Press Release stated that two thirds or more of the sample said that they are likely to switch brands or retailers to those participating in cause related marketing. Demand from socially responsible consumers may increase in line with increasing promotion of a firms socially responsible activities; research by Sen and Bhattacharya (2001) suggests that consumers sensitive to the particular cause supported by a corporation (such as environmentalism) are more likely to react positively towards that corporation. On the other hand, in interviews with a convenience sample of 225 people, Ross, Stutts, and Patterson (1990-91) found that 49 percent stated that a firms support of a cause had been a primary reason for them to purchase a product, and 54 percent said that they are likely to. Also, most consumers do not understand the ethical dimensions of the products that they purchase (Auger et al, 2003, p. 299) but experimental studies have shown that once consumers acknowledge a firms socially responsible initiatives their evaluation of that firm (and its products) increases (Brown and Dacin, 1997). Furthermore, it has been established that certain demographics are increasingly likely to make consumption choices based on social grounds (McWilliams and Siegel, 2001, p 121). A national telephone study by Smith and Alcorn (1991) found that 46% of respondents were likely to switch brands to a company that donates to non-profit organizations and 30% sometimes buy products based on the charitable causes that the manufacturer supports. Porter and Kramer (2002) believe that strategic philanthropy1 at its most sophisticated can be responsible for enhancing the reputation of a company by linking the admirable qualities of the supported cause to its corporate identity. Moreover, it is believed that concentrating charitable donations and funding on a popular cause through a deliberate selection process may have a greater impact than generalized CSR (Porter and Kramer, 2002). Research by McWilliams and Siegel (2001) has found that not all consumers place a high value on the socially responsible actions of a firm; the price of competing goods can affect the demand for goods provided by socially responsible corporations. Studies conducted at Marymount University (1999) reported that 75 percent of consumers would avoid shopping at a store if it was known that their goods were produced under poor social conditions. Furthermore, it was found that the same consumers would be willing to pay $1 more for a $20 item given that the item was produced under good conditions. These studies show that consumers are willing to pay more for goods produced in a socially responsible manner. Indeed, the University of Maryland (2000) found that approximately 75 percent of consumers would pay an additional $5 at least on a $20 item if it was known that the item was not manufactured in a sweatshop. However, It has been suggested that income has a significant impact on demand for products from firms with a good reputation for CSR; low-income shoppers are seen to be more price sensitive than affluent shoppers. This means that affluent consumers are more willing (and able) to pay a higher price for said products (McWilliams and Siegel, 2001). A survey conducted by Creyer and Ross (1997) measured the attitudes of the parents of elementary school children towards ethical and unethical business behaviour. It was found that respondents expected companies to conduct business in an ethical manner and importantly, respondents stated that they would pay higher prices for products from an ethical company. 2.1 An Overview of Corporate Social Responsibility in the Banking Sector The Mauritian banking industry comprises of 18 banks, of which 5 are local banks, 8 are foreign owned subsidiaries, 1 is a joint venture and 4 are branches of foreign banks.  [3]  The banks are certified by the Bank of Mauritius to carry out banking business locally and internationally. Banks provide several traditional banking facilities and card-based payment services such as credit and debit cards, internet banking and phone banking facilities. Other services such as fund management, custodial services, trusteeship, structured lending, structured trade finance; international portfolio management, private client activities, investment banking, treasury and specialised finance are also offered by banks. The banking sector is now increasingly integrating CSR as a management strategy. External social activities are carried out to benefit the wider social community. The banking sector tops the list with a percentage of 1.2 per cent of profits before tax. For example, the Mauritius Commercial Bank (MCB), the leading bank in Mauritius, has promised 1 per cent of its profits before tax ( £460,000) for social projects this year and Barclays Bank (Mauritius) has dedicated Rs 400,000 for the fight against AIDS. While the State Bank of Mauritius launched scholarships to help the brilliant but needy students of the Gandhian Basic School, the Barclays Bank has adopted the fight against diabetes as its flagship cause. Thus it can be seen that corporate social responsibility is very much present in the banking institutions of Mauritius. There is a belief that the growing of businesses and development of stakeholders must go together. Consequently, more and more companies are participating actively in corporate social responsibility. 2.2 A Profile of HSBC Bank Mauritius Limited HSBC Bank (Mauritius) Limited is part of an international banking and financial services organisation with a network of some 9,500 offices in 86 jurisdictions. (MBA Profile of Banks, 2010) The history of the HSBC Group in Mauritius can be mapped out from 1859, when the Chartered Mercantile Bank of India, London and China (the predecessor of the Mercantile Bank Ltd) established a branch in Port-Louis. It started with community investment back then with the financing of one well-known project that was the construction of the Port Louis to Curepipe railway network, in 1864. In 1865, a decision was made to close the branch. The bank was represented by the Blyth Brothers and Co Ltd for the next half century. In 1892, the Chartered Mercantile Bank was renamed as The Mercantile Bank of India Limited and in 1916, it came back to Mauritius through the acquisition of not only the then Bank of Mauritius, which was previously a commercial bank but also its historic building in Place dArmes. Mercantile Bank conducted business from its main office at Place dArmes continuously. In 1959, the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited purchased the Mercantile Bank and in 1983, the name of the Groups operations in Mauritius was changed from the Mercantile Bank Ltd to The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited. In 1999, the international brand name HSBC was launched. Finally in 2002, HSBC started on a campaign to distinguish its brand from those of its opponents by describing the unique characteristics that make out HSBC, abridged by the words The worlds local bank. 2.2.1 Mission To be the worlds leading financial services company. We want to be the first choice for our customers and for our employees. If HSBC can be the best place to bank and the best place to work, we will have built a sustainable business that will deliver for the long term for customers, colleagues, shareholders and society at large. 2.3 Corporate Social Responsibility at HSBC Bank Mauritius Limited At the HSBC, there is a culture to manage business in a responsible and sensitive manner. There is a belief to have a duty towards customers, investors and employees to promote an ethical, responsible and sustainable corporate philosophy. The social initiatives undertaken by the HSBC are channeled into different levels, that is: Investing in communities Working together Protecting the environment Sustainable finance 2.3.1 INVESTING IN COMMUNITIES The HSBC aims to make a positive impact in all communities it operates. The community investment at the HSBC is mainly focused on two pillars which are education and environment. The educational support focuses on disadvantaged children such as orphaned children of the SOS Childrens Villages, on environmental and business literacy and environmental education and understanding. The HSBC Eco-Schools Climate Initiative was initiated in affiliation with the Foundation for Environmental Education. The intention of the programme is to encourage action on climate change by improving schools environmental good organization. 2.3.2 WORKING TOGETHER Employees At the HSBC, employees are believed to be their greatest asset. There is a perception to look harder so as to understand things more deeply. Staffs are driven by the belief that they can form a better future. Their priority is to exceed customer expectation. There is neither labeling nor discrimination and customers are rewarded for their commitment. Promoting Development The HSBC aims at promoting development of its employees not only through e-learning courses easily available both at home and at work but also through exchanges and overseas assignments. Committed to employees well-being HSBC employees have access to its gym to promote healthy living. Also available is an internal library with a collection of books on well being, yoga, healthy living and stress relief. The aim of the organization of the Health Week is to create awareness on the prevention of non-communicable diseases and to contribute by donating blood. Customers Customers are treated fairly and with respect. Despite being strict, the lending criteria take into consideration the customers ability to repay the loan. There is adherence to the MBA Code of Banking Practice. To maintain awareness about customer views, customer surveys are carried out. Suppliers Suppliers are required to abide by HSBCs policies and respect rights of employees. In case, after developing a plan to put a worry at rest, suppliers fail to improve, the HSBC stops working with them. 2.3.3 PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT The HSBC is very committed to the environment. In 2005, it became the worlds first carbon neutral bank. It is trying to optimize operations through environmental management systems. Water Saving Campaign In 2008, the HSBC teamed up with the Central Water Authority to launch a water saving campaign. It aimed to sensitizing the population about the scarcity of water and finding easy ways of saving water. Activities were organized; internally, through the theme of Be Part of the Solution where staff got the opportunity to visit the Meteorological Station of Vacoas and externally, through billboards, daily radio advertisements and tips in local newspapers and distribution of 12000 educational leaflets. Sustainability of Office Infrastructure and Internet Banking All in one device are being used to save energy. Consequently, there is a cutback in amount of equipment, consumption of electricity, toner cartridges and paper and maintenance cost. Through the use of internet banking, the HSBC is trying to provide its customers with their banking needs while at the same time trying to reduce printing outcomes. 2.3.4 SUSTAINABLE FINANCE Through sustainable finance, the HSBC is trying to incorporate the environmental criterion in its lending policies. Consequently, the organization will be able to assist its clients in building environmentally sustainable busin

Capital Punishment is an Effective Deterrent :: Argumentative Persuasive Essays

Capital Punishment is an Effective Deterrent Throughout history, statistics have proven that Capital Punishment has been an effective deterrent of major crime. Capital Punishment is the lawful infliction of death among criminals and has been used to punish a wide variety of offenses for many years all over the world (Bedau 16). When the death penalty is enforced, it shows society that committing a capital crime has deadly consequences. In early times, many methods of Capital Punishment were used to deter a variety of crimes. For over a century, the uniform method for executing persons in America was hanging, although starvation was very common also. There were exceptions which included spies, traitors, and deserters who would face a firing squad. Then in 1888, New York directed the construction of an "electric chair" (Flanders 11). It was believed that the new harnessed power of electricity would prove to be a more scientific and humane means of execution. The first electrocution took place in New York in 1890. In the past, capital crimes were much different than they are now. Robbery and the selling of alcohol to underage customers was a serious capital crime (McCuen and Baumgart 21). Rape was also a crime where the criminal was sentenced to death. In America, only thirty-seven states authorize the death penalty. In most of those thirty-seven states, murder is the only capital crime. The Supreme Court requires that two conditions must be met in order for a specific murder to warrant the death penalty (Nardo 32). The first condition is that it must be first degree murder, which is the deliberate and premeditated taking of life. The second is that one or more aggravating circumstances must be present. Aggravating Circumstances refer to those aspects of a crime that increase its severity. An example of an aggravating circumstance would be torture in conjunction with a murder. ("Capital Punishment" 32). Every society has faced the problem of what to do with its most troublesome criminals. Many people in the past have argued whether or not Capital Punishment is justified and necessary. Most societies now believe that a criminal should receive punishment proportional to the crime committed. Most societies believe that such a severe punishment was necessary to install fear in others. While more social structures developed, the crimes developed into public and private offenses. Public offenses such as witchcraft and blasphemy, were punished by the state; while private offenses still were answered by acts of personal retribution. The enforcement of Capital Punishment in the early twentieth century declined drastically because of all of the controversy.