4 Points of Winning Essay Example for Free

4 Points of Winning Essay Let’s start with â€Å"First is prayer.†Nothing is as strong as correct prayer. This is faith of â€Å"no prayer will go unanswered.† This is the Mystic Law of â€Å"no strategy can match the strategy of the Lotus Sutra.† In any struggle, everything begins with prayer. And it is vital to always continue praying. We have to pray right through any difficulty we encounter. The Mystic Law is the fundamental principle of the universe. The prayers of a person who chants, practices and struggles for the Mystic Law, which is of such supreme importance, will be perfectly in synch with the fundamental rhythm of the universe. Accordingly, no prayer by such a person will go unanswered. The benevolent deities, the Buddhas and bodhisattvas will all extend their protection without fail. See more: Sleep Deprivation Problem Solution Speech Essay The important thing is prayer for kosen-rufu. In other words, it is prayer based on a vow for the protection and the powerful flourishing of the Soka Gakkai that is advancing kosen-rufu. It is prayer with the spirit â€Å"Buddhism is victory or defeat† to show actual proof of the greatness of the Mystic Law in our life. The prayers of a votary of the Lotus Sutra will be answered without fail. No matter what might happen, a person of powerful prayer will be able to change poison into medicine. Such a person has absolutely nothing to fear. Just how immense is the power of daimoku? It is the ultimate power to move the universe. The rhythm of daimoku resounds throughout the universe while activating the Buddha nature in our life. Those who sonorously chant daimoku change the life of one friend after another and cause their communities, society and the world to move toward peace and prosperity, while causing their own life force to abundantly well forth. What is the secret to causing an organization to develop? It is the determination of the central figure. It is to always live out one’s life together with the Soka Gakkai based on the spirit of mentor and disciple. Also, earnestness and action are very important. An organization in which the leaders pray and take action with all their might will thrive. By contrast, an organization whose central figure is arrogant toward those within and never ventures outside will not develop. We need to take the initiative in meeting with others. We need to build new friendships. We have to proudly tell people about the greatness of the Soka Gakkai and the wonder of mentor and disciple. It is this that will open a new age. When the central figure really fights hard and leads a fulfilling life each day, this vitality will be transmitted to others, and everyone will become happy. An organization ultimately depends on the central figure. I would like to reiterate this point. Of course, someone who understands being â€Å"earnest† to mean always wearing a fierce expression will only drive people away. While stoking a fighting spirit in our heart, when meeting friends we should put on a bright smile and offer warm encouragement. At any rate, faith is â€Å"action for becoming happy.† The life of Buddhism always exists within action. The second of the four principles for absolute victory is action. Without action, Buddhism could not exist. To what extent has one taken action for kosen-rufu? This is the true expression of one’s faith. It’s not a matter of organizational position or standing. It could be said that the strength or weakness of a person’s faith directly manifests in their actions. Those who take action for kosen-rufu are most noble. Leaders absolutely must never forget the importance of such individuals. I only believe in action. Rather, I cannot believe anything except action. Why is the world of Buddhism beautiful, profound and strong? It is because it contains the supreme unity of â€Å"many in body, one in mind.† Unity of â€Å"many in body, one in mind† is the third of the four principles for absolute victory. It could be said that such unity is truly the secret to achieving kosen-rufu. An organization possessing unity of â€Å"many in body, one in mind† is sure to develop. By contrast, an organization of â€Å"one in body, many in mind† or â€Å"many in body, many in mind† is sure to decline. The statement, â€Å"If the spirit of many in body but one in mind prevails among the people, they will achieve all their goals† (WND-1, 618), is a great principle that must never be forgotten. It is eternal guideline. It is certainly no exaggeration to say that our victory or defeat will depend entirely on whether we can construct an organization of with unity of â€Å"many in body, one in mind.† Kosen-rufu is a battle against devilish forces. Even a great castle will be taken by enemies if it has an area that is unguarded or that is weak. If there are people of â€Å"many in body, many in mind† within the castle, then devils will be able to cause disruptions in the castle that much more easily. In unity of â€Å"many in body, one in mind,† there is no such thing as one person being above or below another. It is not a matter of our being â€Å"one in body.† We’re â€Å"different in body.† While treasuring the individuality and unique characteristics of each person, we need to equally pool our energies with a spirit of â€Å"one in mind.† There is a vital point for strengthening unity of â€Å"many in body, one in mind.† Namely: activities whereby â€Å"persons inside the castle destroy the castle from within† cannot be allowed. We have to steadfastly battle people of â€Å"many in body, many in mind,† who are parasites in the lion’s bowels, and completely remove the roots of this devilish tendency. President Toda strictly decreed: â€Å"If a leader forgets kosen-rufu and tries to create a personal clique out of concern for personal fame and fortune, then the other leaders must unite in firmly driving away such a selfish and egoistic person.† This harmonious unity of the Soka Gakkai, which President Toda declared to be more important than his own life, must be protected for all eternity. I would like to assert that this is the pulse of kosen-rufu. What is the most essential thing for advancing in unity of â€Å"many in body, one in mind†? It is to live out one’s life in unity with the mentor. Oneness of mentor and disciple is the imperative that people who are â€Å"different in body† become â€Å"one in mind.† This is the fourth of the four principles for absolute victory. Unity of â€Å"many in body, one in mind† can only be solidified by each person forming a deep resolve to unite in spirit with the mentor and advance kosen-rufu. It is precisely in such unity that the beneficial power of the Mystic Law becomes clearly manifest. Oneness of mentor and disciple is foundation that determines our attainment of Buddhahood. The great path of perpetuating kosen-rufu lies precisely in advancing in unity with the mentor. That’s because without the pillar of mentor and disciple, we will be readily carried away by our emotions, and swept along by the conditions of the times. Without mentor and disciple, we would be easily defeated when confronted by devils. It is now 50 years since President Toda passed away. I am confident that as President Toda’s disciple I have been able to establish a model of the path of a disciple, the path of a successor, and the path of oneness that will shine free of any blemish for ten thousand years.

Psychological disorders and physical illness Essay Example for Free

Psychological disorders and physical illness Essay Irrational fear of common things leads to their inability to cope with life because the things that they fear have to be faced everyday. The most common disorders include phobias, In the medical field, many factors are attributed to the various conditions that people experience. Although genetic and biological factors which constitute of the natural causes and the life experiences which are the nurture factors contribute to ones physical wellbeing, it is also possible that a majority of illnesses that people suffer from are brought about by psychological factors. Heart diseases, chronic headaches, insomnia, hypertension, ulcers, eating disorders among others are some of the diseases that can be caused by psychological factors (Stoudemire A. 1995). It has been established that when one’s stress levels are very high, it reduces the activity of the lymphocytes leading to an increased likelihood of illness (Sadock B J. , Kaplan H. I. Sadock V. A. ). A person suffering from a psychological disorder will most likely have feelings of helplessness in any given situation causing them to suffer even from common illnesses more than others will. To aid the patients suffering from these disorders, one can only recommend relaxation techniques while providing anti-depressants to control their response to life’s normal occurrences. A person with a disorder tends to react in a more intense manner than other would in similar situations. This causes an imbalance in their bodily functions leading to their contracting illnesses that would have otherwise been avoided. It also affects their chances of getting better from any other illness that they may be suffering from. The disorders include anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorders and panic (Ketterer M. W. , Mahr G`. Goldberg A. D. ). These render a person powerless against their fears and in the process affect their wellbeing.

A Study On A Written Constitution Politics Essay

A Study On A Written Constitution Politics Essay This essay will be defining what a constitution is, how its use and what its used for and whether or not Britain should adopt a written constitution. A written constitution is an official document that defines the nature of the constitutional settlement, the policy that governs the political system and the rights of citizens and governments in a codified form. It defines the laws, customs and conventions that define the composition and powers of organs of the state. (Jones, B., Kavanagh, D., Morgan, M., Norton, P. 2007). Constitutions vary in terms of their purpose, it may be constructed in such a way as to embody and protect fundamental principles (such as the individual liberty) principles that should be beyond the reach of the transient wish of the people. (Jones, B., Kavanagh, D., Morgan, M., Norton, P. 2007). Unlike most other countries The United Kingdom does not have a written constitution in a single document, but derives from a number of sources that are part written and part unwritten because there are laws, House of Parliament, conventions and understandings that constitute the rules of the formal political game. These rules are as about relationships of power, within the constitution s of a state, and between the state and the larger society. It can adjust readily to suit changing circumstances. A quote by Leo Amery: if a constitution is meant a written document or series of documents embodying in statutory or declaratory form the principles and structure of our government, then there is, in that sense, no such thing as the British constitution. What we mean by the British constitution is not any deliberate attempt to control and confine our political growth on the basis of a preconceive intellectual plan, reflecting the political theories of a particular group of men or the repossessions of a particular age, but a living structure continuously shaped in the course of history by the interaction of individual purposes and collective instincts with the requirements of ever varying circumstances. (Amery, L. 1952) Although Britain does not have a single document codifying the way its political institutions functions and setting out the basic rights and duties of its citizens, it however has an important constitutional documents. Such as the Magna Carta brought in during 1218, which protects the human rights of the community against the Crown, The Bill of Rights 1689 which extended the powers of government, and the Reform Act 1832 which reformed the system of parliamentary representation. (www.ukinusa.fco.gov.uk) The principal sources of what can be called the traditional constitution are four in number: statute law, comprising Acts of Parliament and subordinate legislation made under the authority of the parent Act: common law, comprising legal principles developed an applied by the courts, and encompassing the prerogative powers of the crown and the law and practice of parliament: conventions, constituting rules of behaviour that are considered rules of behaviour that are considered binding by and upon those who operate the constitution but re not enforced by the courts or by the presiding officers in the Houses of Parliament: works of authority, comprising various written works-often but not always accorded authority by reason of their age- that provide guidance and interpretation on uncertain aspects of the constitution. Such works have persuasive authority only. (Jones, B., Kavanagh, D., Morgan, M., Norton, P. 2007). Statue law is the pre-eminent of the four sources and occupies such a position because of the doctrine of parliamentary sovereignty. Under this juristically self-imposed concept, the courts recognise only the authority of Parliament formally known as the Queen Parliament to make la, with no body other than Parliament itself having the authority to set aside that law. The courts cannot strike down a law as being contrary to the provisions of the constitution. The House of Lords has come to be increasing constrained by law and regulated by unwritten conventions so that it can now only delay certain bills passed by Commons. (Dearlove and Saunders, 2000). By law, general elections should be held every five years and all adults are allowed to vote, but however, the first-past-the post voting system means that not all votes are of the same power-in sending chosen candidates from particular parties to the House of Commons. This therefore, has huge implications for the organisation of governmental power, making powerful and unyielding single-party rule very much more likely than the compromise of coalition government. (Dearlove and Saunders, 2000).] The supremacy of the Parliament is the backbone of the British Politics and is only possible threatened by aspects of the work of the European Commission and the European Union institution. Parliament can pass, repeal and alter any of Britishs Laws. That is one of the major powers that the government has. When the Conservative leader, Margaret Thatcher banned trade unions at GCHQ believing that they had no place in the organisation and had no importance in the British national security, the government reversed it in 1997 when a new party came to power and was ruled by Tony Blair. (www.historylearningsite.co.uk). Constitutions are important because it legitimise a states existence, establishes national valves, provides organising structure and through that stability in government. It also limits the power of the state to protect its citizen. it represents an important stage of evolution away from the flexible monarchical constitution of the past, which had Parliamentary sovereignty and executive supremacy at its heart, towards a regulatory state, in which the power of the executive and the Westminster Parliament, while still significant, is restrained by the existence of subordinate, supranational and parallel powers which it has willed into existence but cannot will away. The constitution is flexible and adaptable it is not bound by the valves of a past age, it can adapt to current circumstances and crisis or changes. Its produces strong and stable government where parliament is sovereign and power is not shared between a range of branches of Government. The Government is effective in terms that it gets what it wants and the people will get what they voted for. The Government has a strong degree of accountability where they are the representatives to the electorate when things go wrong, and people will know who to blame. Written constitution is ruled upon by judges. In Britain judges are unelected and it is therefore undemocratic to take power away from our elected representatives and give it to judges who tend to be quite reactionary. One of the benefits of the current system is that it is flexible. If they have a political mandate from the people, the government can reform the constitution, as with the example of the House of Lords. If you had to have a 2/3 majority in both houses, this measure would never have been passed: neither would devolution. In countries like the USA, it is nearly impossible to change their constitution. There is no guarantee that what is best now will still be best in the next couple of years. A written constitution would make us much less flexible with Europe. There is a strong culture of rights and liberties which stretches back to1214 with Magna Carta and the 1689 Bills of Rights, and which is widely accepted by politicians of all parties, lawyers and judges, the media and civil society as a whole. This consensus makes it impossible for a single government to overturn rights-as government defeats on the proposed detention of terrorist suspects demonstrate. Since 1998 the Human Rights Act has enshrined the European Convention on Human Rights into UK law, and now provides a focus for this culture of rights. Also less developed countries such as Zimbabwe and Iran have a written constitution, if anyone wanted to flaunt democratic procedures it would be as hard as it would with a written constitution. (www.idebate.org) . Well, it works doesnt it? So I think thats the answer even if it is on the back of an envelope and doesnt have a written constitution with every comma and every semi colon in place. Because sometimes they can make for difficulties that common sense can overcome. (Lord Callaghan, 1991). Britain has survived very well without a written constitution. The people of the country are not requesting for a constitution so why so it be changed because American has one. People do not understand the rule that preside over the political side so therefore, it is seen as not be needed. (www.idebate.org). Without a written constitution, the UK has no Bills of Rights to protect its citizens from an over powerful state. The existing Human Acts Rights provides only weak protection, with judges only able to rule that new laws are non-compliant with the Act -the government can ignore such rulings if it wishes. The Human Acts Rights can easily be amended by a simple majority in both House of Parliament. A written constitution with a proper Bill of Rights would provide much stronger protection for the rights of the citizens. At the moment the judiciary is weak in its ability to act as a check against parliament. A written constitution would increase its powers. The British Parliament is subject to no authority beyond itself and this goes against the principle of the rule of law which the democracy is based on. Also in Europe the context of further political integration in the EU, it is important that it enshrine and clarify Britains Protection from extremists. A written constitution would of fer protection if an extremist came to power and wanted to disregard democratic procedures. (www.idebate.org). An article from the Guardian Newspaper 2008 carried news of constitutional proposals drafted by Chris Bryant: Destroying British valves. Where the male children in the UK monarchs take precedence over the female ones in the line of succession to the throne, and reform of the Act of Succession: the law that bans Roman Catholics, or those married to Catholics, from taking their place in the line of succession Why should people worry or even bother about these proposals to repeal such seemingly archaic and irrelevant features of the UKS constitution? (Wintour, P. 2008) (www.Guardian.co.uk) {Accessed 11/01/10} In conclusion Britain should not adopt a written constitution like America, because if a constitution is put in place it will limit the government or to set out the perimeters which governments must operate then the fact that it can be adapted can be problematic as well. I agree with Lord Callaghan, where he says the system actually works, so why it be changed because it is not codified. Britain has traditional valves that will have to be changed if it adopts a constitution. For example the Human Acts Rights if Britain had a constitution it would have been very difficult for the Acts to gave been placed. There is a huge difference between American and Britain that is why America has A President and Britain has a Prime Minister.

The Face of the Other Essay -- Culture Cultural Ideology Essays

The Face of the Other Everything seen is seen with the help of the Others. At birth, we are thrown into a specificity of culture that is alien to us. We are engulfed in this culture and the networks of ideologies entailed by culture that define the world because there is a grounding for the possibility of ideology that lies not only in our existence of a subject with Others, but also in the way that culture, as a form of existence with Others, manifests meaning and understanding. Although we are thrown into culture, we cannot recognize us as beings alien to the cultural process itself, there is a primordial ethical responsibility that our existence with the Others calls forth. Culture arises at the same moment it disperses, it is constantly being remolded by the individuals that take part in their everydayness as subjects. Commonly understand, culture is the products of a given society. Value is assigned to these products through their historical relation to the crumbling network of production that we call ‘culture’. Commonalities in personalities of Others begin to arise exponentially as individuals encounter different experiences. There are some commonalities within all of our personalities, and more of these commonalities the specific subjectivities within a culture, these cultural codings are how the Others define each other. Culture is maintained and sustained through individuals. But, what is it that maintains similar subjectivities among each other, consisting us as neighbors? The term most readily available in English would have to be â€Å"ideology†. Ideology functions through the use of language as it transmits culture; it acts as a systematic body of concepts that transgresses into an individual not only th... ...rhetorical language as ideology. The same set of meanings that defines the terrestrial world affects all of us relatively equally. All of our reception is received into our thought-processes through the same â€Å"ideological† process as our encounter with language. It is ideological in that the elements are received as a whole, as a systematic body of beings. To receive the plenum of elements is to receive an ideology of sorts. And this reception is essential to ourselves as Visions, as looking out and understanding the world. There is a difference between the acceptance of the meanings in language and the acceptance of substance in the world. But this is preceded by an acceptance and a vision. Mythical social structures envisioned by sociologists are words and only words. Ideology and language are inseparable; they arise and interact with us experientially.

Elements of Symbolism in The Scarlet Letter :: Scarlet Letter essays

Elements of Symbolism in The Scarlet Letter    200 Words of Teacher’s Praise and Comments  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Nathaniel Hawthorne uses several literary devices to give his novel The Scarlet Letter depth. One of these devices is symbolism. Hawthorne utilizes symbolism to convey certain points or themes to the reader by using ordinary objects. Three of the elements he uses as symbols are the settings of the Puritan town and the forest and weather.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     The first of the two main settings is the Puritan town that includes the prison and the scaffold. The Puritan law is based on their religion. The town maintains a sense of strict moral values and disciplinary measures in accordance with the Puritan religion. Therefore, the town stands for lawfulness and purity. It serves as a contrast to Hester Prynne’s scarlet letter. The prison that the city was built around serves as a symbol as well. It represents guilt and the human tendency to sin, and it also symbolizes penance. Hester is forced to spend time in jail for committing the sin of adultery, and it is the starting point of Hester’s trek of shame to the scaffold in the market place. The scaffold itself is another symbol Hawthorne uses. Like the prison, it also symbolizes sin and guilt. â€Å"The very ideal of ignominy was embodied and made manifest in this contrivance of wood and iron† (60). It provides the setting of several important scenes in the novel. It is where Hester is forced to stand for three hours as punishment, where Dimmesdale, Pearl, and Hester stand in the night, and where Dimmesdale reveals himself and dies. It is also a symbol of truth because Dimmesdale’s great revelation occurred there.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The second setting is the forest just outside of the town. It proves to be a kind of dramatic foil to the idealistic Puritan society. The Puritans maintain a community that thrives on purity and lack of sin. The forest, on the other hand, is a symbol of lawlessness and desecration. It is shrouded in mystery and retains a dark and foreboding air. The Puritans abhor the forest because it stands as a perfect example of evil. However, the witches that live in the town view it very differently. They appreciate the anonymity the forest provides them. Thus they are free to pay homage to the Black Man in secret. Their presence reiterates the fact that the forest is a symbol of darkness. Elements of Symbolism in The Scarlet Letter :: Scarlet Letter essays Elements of Symbolism in The Scarlet Letter    200 Words of Teacher’s Praise and Comments  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Nathaniel Hawthorne uses several literary devices to give his novel The Scarlet Letter depth. One of these devices is symbolism. Hawthorne utilizes symbolism to convey certain points or themes to the reader by using ordinary objects. Three of the elements he uses as symbols are the settings of the Puritan town and the forest and weather.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     The first of the two main settings is the Puritan town that includes the prison and the scaffold. The Puritan law is based on their religion. The town maintains a sense of strict moral values and disciplinary measures in accordance with the Puritan religion. Therefore, the town stands for lawfulness and purity. It serves as a contrast to Hester Prynne’s scarlet letter. The prison that the city was built around serves as a symbol as well. It represents guilt and the human tendency to sin, and it also symbolizes penance. Hester is forced to spend time in jail for committing the sin of adultery, and it is the starting point of Hester’s trek of shame to the scaffold in the market place. The scaffold itself is another symbol Hawthorne uses. Like the prison, it also symbolizes sin and guilt. â€Å"The very ideal of ignominy was embodied and made manifest in this contrivance of wood and iron† (60). It provides the setting of several important scenes in the novel. It is where Hester is forced to stand for three hours as punishment, where Dimmesdale, Pearl, and Hester stand in the night, and where Dimmesdale reveals himself and dies. It is also a symbol of truth because Dimmesdale’s great revelation occurred there.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The second setting is the forest just outside of the town. It proves to be a kind of dramatic foil to the idealistic Puritan society. The Puritans maintain a community that thrives on purity and lack of sin. The forest, on the other hand, is a symbol of lawlessness and desecration. It is shrouded in mystery and retains a dark and foreboding air. The Puritans abhor the forest because it stands as a perfect example of evil. However, the witches that live in the town view it very differently. They appreciate the anonymity the forest provides them. Thus they are free to pay homage to the Black Man in secret. Their presence reiterates the fact that the forest is a symbol of darkness.

The Importance of Sex Education Essays -- Children Sex Ed Youth Educ

Children and young adults today distinguish right from wrong based on their previous knowledge. The education they receive plays a major role in the way they make decisions. Sex is a controversial topic brought up frequently throughout a child's life. Based on the way it is taught, the child makes decisions that may forever change his or her life. (Sex Education That 3) Although it is often opposed, the two most essential ways children learn about sex today is the education they receive at home and at school. The relationship and behavior between children and their parents is crucial to the ways these children shape their own sexual ideas and values A child who perceives his relationship to his parents as supportive and close, is more likely to sexually behave in a way approved by his or her parents than a child brought up in an unhealthy environment. (Single-Sex Education 1) Furthermore, communication is more effective in a loving family relationship, and a child who feels loved generally feels good about his or her general outlook on sex. (Straight Talk About 56) Along with normal education, sex education must progress and grow with the individual child. Often, there is a real communication barrier between parents and children when it comes to talking about sex. (Sex Education That 2 ) The children sometimes feel awkward asking parents personal questions. In numerous situations, kids are left with many unanswered questions. A small number of adults know for sure what their kids think about sex, or do not know their son's or daughter's sexual experiences. (Choosing Virginity 68 )Parents frequently wish to talk to their children but are sometimes too ashamed or just too ignorant. Yet, adults still do not seek wa... ...fected. (Single Sex Education 5)They also argue that a million teenage girls get pregnant each year and at least half of these girls have an abortion. (Virgin Cool 71) The government hasn't yet taken its case anywhere, but will most likely in the years to come. Ultimately, it is up to the children to decide how he or she interprets the sex education of which they receive. (Straight Talk About 45) The most effective deterrents include a strong self-esteem, the ability to make informed choices, and meaningful options that give young people futures worth protecting and healthy ways to protect their identity. (Sexual Values 29) The choices they make will forever impact their lives. The controversy of sex education will, as well, forever stay the same. Whether at home or at school, children will always be faced with many tough decisions to make. (Sex Education That 45)

Erie Performance Polymers Essay

INTRODUCTION This case tells us about Stanley Wong, division manager for Erie Performance Polymers and general manger of Wuhan Erie Polymers joint venture who had received an approval for his transfer request to Gary, Indiana, USA, headquarters of Erie. He was given the task of recommending to the board, from a list of six candidates, a successor to his position. During his tenure Stanley Wong has tried to modernize the thought process of his mainly Chinese employees, at the same time being sensitive to the cultural differences, he tried to create an organisational culture which was a mix of both Chinese and western values. He must make sure that his successor is sensitive to the existent differences in culture and that he is well equipped to handle problems or conflicts which these differences might cause. NOMINATION OF SUCCESSOR (Q1) After considering the six candidates it can be said that all of them six have certain shortcomings and none can be considered ideal for the job, however Bruce Po would probably best suit this position since he possesses several important qualities required for succeeding in this position. Wright and Mischel (1987) have stated that predictable behaviour would be achieved when management practices would be congruent with national cultural values which according to Earley (1994) would further result in high performance. According to Perlmutter (1969) polycentric firms are those, which, by experience or by inclination of the top executive begin with the assumption that host country cultures are different and that foreigners are difficult to understand (p11). Perlmutter (1969) further states that local people know what is best for them and the part of the firm which is located in the host country should be as local in identity as possible. Bruce Po is a national manager and possess’ the advantage of having the knowledge of the local business scene (Scullion & Collings, 2006). Being fluent in Chinese and  having a good understanding of Chinese culture and traditions, he will be able to not only communicate and motivate his staff efficiently but also socialize and maintain good relations with government officials, which is required for this post. Governmental policies favour appointment of HCN managers (Dowling & Welch, 2004). Wilson, Bernadin and Russel (1998) have concluded that the failure rate of PCN managers is also high compared to HCN managers. Appointment of Po would satisfy the need to appoint a host country national (HCN) as the manager. Po has shown in the past that he is capable of making crucial decisions much needed for this managerial post. He is intelligent, committed and hardworking and will successfully be able to implement modern business techniques which he is currently learning. The current scenario requires a manager who can ensure that the subsidiary has a similar corporate culture and shares similar values of the main firm to maximise productivity using socialization must to assert control, much like a ‘bumble–bee’ (Harzing, 2001). Po lacks networking skills with the head quarters and might fail to assert the required amount of control. The Chinese have shared the tradition of respect for elders for many generations (Wales, 1946). Po, being only 32 years of age might not be able to command that respect from his colleagues. AREAS WHERE CROSS-CULTURAL CONFLICTS MAY ARISE AND RECOMMENDATIONS TO SOLVE THESE CHALLENGES (Q2) According to Choi and Beamisch (2004) conflicts could cause substantial problems to a company and cultural conflicts may further complicate the process. Large cultural differences would increase the difficulty for the involved groups to understand each other’s point of view. To get a better understanding of the cultural differences between the two nations lets take into account the research done by Hofstede (1984). Hofstede (1984) developed and named 5 dimensions, which best characterised a culture, enabling us to make a comparison between cultures. These five dimensions were individualism, power distance, uncertainty avoidance, masculinity and long-term orientation (Hofstede, 1984). Chinese differ substantially with respect to individualism, long term orientation and power distance when compared to the Americans (Geert-hofstede.com, 2014). These differences  could result in conflicts in the following areas:- Intercultural communication Problems often occur due to misunderstandings, which come up as a result of cultural differences in methods of negotiation and handling conflict (Adler, 1986; Adler and Graham, 1989). The Americans who are associated with individualism believe in confrontation while the collectivist Chinese try to avoid conflict and heated arguments (Hofstede, 1984). This could lead to misunderstandings when the two parties communicate. For example the Americans might think that silence from their Asian colleague is a sign of consent when actually it isn’t. The Chinese might misunderstand their American colleagues’ arguments and confrontation as lack of respect. Even in negotiation, which is the two sided exchange of signals between parties, people from different cultures interpret signals differently; negotiators might thus misread the signals or transmit an unmeant message. Thomas & Pondy (1977) have suggested that often ones words, facial expressions, body language and speech lead to attributions of intent that could cause conflict. Augsburger (1992) further stated that this phenomenon runs rampant in cross-cultural communication. Adoption of modern business practices Its observed that collectivist values are more suited for agrarian economy and are very different from the individualistic values which encourage more openness, conflict and innovation (Chen, Tjosvold and Pan, 2010). It is important for organisations to adopt modern business techniques in order to compete in emerging global market. Individualists are more up to date and endorse modern management ideas while collectivists don’t (Hofstede, 1984). These differences in individualistic and collectivist values of the two culture could lead to hindrance and conflict with regards to adopting modern business techniques (Inkeles and Smith, 1974). Selling price decisions Taking into consideration the fifth dimension, which is long-term orientation. The Chinese and the Americans have a different mindset when it comes to running a viable business. The Americans use long term strategies to achieve their goal while the Chinese aim for quick profits. The Chinese  focus on cutting edge prices and on getting in and out of the market fast. Discussing selling price and decisions on future prospects could lead to conflict escalation due to differences in ideology. Conflict management is vital in a joint venture but to prevent conflicts by clear initial agreements and open communication is preferred. Cultural distance has been defined as ‘†¦basic differences between cultures, such as value systems, beliefs, customs and rituals in addition to legal, political and economic systems’ (Cao, Hirschi and Deller, 2012, p. 167). According to Tung and Verbeke (2010) the first step in overcoming uncertainty and its consequences is managing this process with an understanding of cross cultural relations. Zhang, Y., Harwood, J. and Hummert, M. (2005) have stated that misunderstandings related to cultural differences can be avoided and performance can be improved by applying effective conflict management in the joint venture. Cultural awareness and cultural value systems must be put in place to overcome misunderstandings. This will help two parties to understand each other better (Tang and Ward, 2003). In a joint venture it is important that both groups understand each other’s point of view. This will lead to a mutual understanding between the parties enhancing trust and communication and reducing the chances of a conflict. Conflicts cannot always be averted, some need to be addressed. Conflict management approaches must be used to deal with these conflicts. Blake and mouton (1964) have stated two conflict management styles, the accommodating approach and the avoiding approach. The accommodating approach is when concern is shown for the other group. This conflict management method is appropriate due to the fact that reaching common objectives are in the best interest of the joint venture. Finally Conflict management is a skill that can be taught and developed. It must be taught to specialists in the human resources section. CHALLENGE IN ATTRACTING, RETAINING AND REWARDING INTERNATIONAL TALENT (Q3) Reiche (2007) states that retention of valuable employees is a critical strategy for HR managers and organisational leaders in order to survive in the long term and achieve competitive advantage in the global economy. Senior executive selection and retention is of prime importance since they are responsible for overall direction and scope of business activity. The  retention of intellectual capital is of growing strategic importance (Tymon, Stump and Doh, 2010) and there has been a growing interest among organisations, practitioners and academics (Scullion, Collings and Gunningle, 2007). Asian countries have particularly faced significant problems with respect to employee retention despite their economic growth in recent years (Barnett, 1995). It was important to choose a successor who could motivate his employees and encourage them to be a part of the organisation for longest possible time. Stanley would also have to take into consideration the candidates ethnicity, since to work and live in china might prove quite difficult for expatriates and they might end up leaving. Employee retention benefits both the organisation as well as the employee because organisational performance is a product of individual performance (Pfeffer and Sutton, 2006). In order to retain employees companies provide training and mentoring to their top employees which would help them broaden their skills (Groysberg, Nanda and Nohria, 2004). Wong’s challenge is to communicate clearly the possibilities for future training, development, and career progress which is a crucial part of a successful retention strategy (Lasserre and Ching, 1996) The successor must have good team work skills since it is observed that team work allows greater employee participation and increases organisations performance which influences motivation and satisfaction of employees (Nel et al 2002). This would lead to employee retention. Job satisfaction is very important in order to ensure that the successor retains his position for a long time. Autonomy, good relations with co-workers and working co nditions are factors which influence job satisfaction. In china it is very difficult to maintain good relations with co-workers if you cant communicate in Chinese. Managers who might not be able to speak Chinese might not be satisfied with the job since they would not be able to communicate and maintain relations with their co-workers. The reward system is strongly influenced by economic and social factors. According to Schhuster and Zingheim (1992) designing of the reward system must be done strategically in a way to reward results and behaviour, which are consistent with goals of the organisation. WEP must use the total reward approach, which takes into consideration the totality of extrinsic/intrinsic and transactional/relational rewards in reward design (Thompson, 2002). The challenge that Wong faces is to shape reward systems such that they balance  the needs and desires of HCNs, PCNs and TCNs (Fisher, Schoenfeldt and Shaw, 1999). He must make sure that he motivates his employees by ensuring that compensation is given to skilled e mployees who achieve their targets and make international business operations succeed (McNally, 1992). Harvey (1995) identified the problem that compensation was different for HCNs and expatriates. Often expatriates make more money than HCNs who might have a job of equal or more importance (Harvey, 1995). This might make the HCN employees feel like they are being treated unfairly (Fisher, Shoenfeldt and Shaw, 1999). Wong faces the challenge of trying to create a somewhat equal compensatory system. He must tailor rewards to fit the Chinese culture.(Westerman, Beekun, Daly and Vanka, 2009). Wong must consider the balance sheet approach, which facilitates mobility among expatriate staff in the most cost affective manner (Reynolds, 1995). This approach is considered expensive and complicated. Phillips and fox (2003) have stated that this is not an effective means of attracting and retaining the best expatriates. An alternative approach would be the going rate approach, which is primarily based on host country market pay rates (Dowling, Welch and Schuler, 1994). A good reward system could attract, retain and motivate employees. It is important for WEP to offer special benefits such as housing provision and cost of living allowances to attract expatriates. Benefits were found to be an important component in encouraging prospect expatriates to accept international assignments (Konopaske and Werner, 2005). Job applicants are attracted to organisations that fit with their personal values (Kristof, 1996). CONCLUSION To conclude we can say that Stanley Wong has numerous factors to take into consideration before nominating a successor. Neglecting cultural differences, dependency on the other partner and unresolved conflicts could lead to termination of the joint venture (Kemp, 1999). 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