Wednesday, October 9, 2019

What were the major historical causes for the successive waves of Essay

What were the major historical causes for the successive waves of Greek colonization In what ways did Greek colonies impact Greek political institutions and cultural values - Essay Example Moreover, years of military expertise and familiarity with defending the Greek Speaking world from a host of foreign threats came to integrate deeply within an understanding of Greece and its role throughout the region. As can be seen from the situation that is been described, there was not merely one or two factors that encourage to Greece to colonize and otherwise invade the surrounding regions. Instead, a litany of factors coalesced and encouraged the nascent state, as a direct result of its exposure, trade, and subsequent military conquest, that colonization would be an effective means through which a greater level of wealth and regional influence could be exhibited. After the conquest of the first wave of Greek colonization, it became clear that a level of administrative authority, unlike what existed within the Greek states, must be exerted as a means of ensuring that a level of separatism and possible/potential rebellion was not exhibited. Due to the fact that the individuals who were colonized were inherently â€Å"non-Greek† the colonies could not be expected to be administered willingly in the same way that free men within the Greek city states existed. As such, a new form of administration and one that promoted a level of Greek culture, identification, and governance was established within these newly conquered realms. Although it was not a primary interest of the Greek colonizers to instill a level of cultural respect, the institutions and governance structure that was established effectively created a level of Greek culture and respect for it within the institutions that have thus far been described. As with any empire throughout the course of history, the growth and diversity of colonies created a situation in which Greece was forced to expend a great deal of energy, time, and money as a means of administering and ensuring that these colonies continue

Tuesday, October 8, 2019

History of Graphic Design Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

History of Graphic Design - Essay Example In fact, in a way the artists in the 20th century happened to be way less burdened by utilitarian expectations (Lupton 1). Therefore, the graphic designers in the 20th century were as prone to tempering their creativity with an inclination for providing universal solutions, as the artists before them. The way they differed from them was in the sense that they happened to live in an age and time, that surpassed any other age in terms of a rapid and mass proliferation of new ideas, influences and ways of doing things. The graphic designers in 20th century happened to be denizens of a world that was rapidly changing. Artists, as individuals affiliated to other vocations had to contend with and make sense of an array of social, cultural, political and economic influences (Heller & Chwast 169). An array of social events and trends like an enhanced participation of women in the Western social and economic life, a rising working class, rapid industrialization and advent of technologies of mass production, and extensive urbanization impacted artists with an accentuated sense of novelty. The proliferation of a scientific mindset and way of life did make the 20th century graphic designers grasp and appreciate the linearity imminent in mathematical forms. The 20th century graphic designers lived in an era where a sense of disillusionment engendered by the Wars was giving way to rapid progress made possible by science and technology. In fact, the versatility, variety and variation marking the 20th century is amply illustrated by the host of art movements it initiated and encouraged like, Arts & Crafts movement, Art Nouveau, Futurism, Bauhaus, Art Deco, Dada, etc (Heller & Chwast 12). The 20th century graphic designers owed allegiance to a salubrious mix of artistic, corporate and political motivations. One big factor that encouraged them to do so was that for the first time in the history of art, the artists did have access to the means,

Monday, October 7, 2019

What main objectives did the British and Russian Empires pursue in the Research Paper

What main objectives did the British and Russian Empires pursue in the course of the Great Game in Central Asia and Afghanistan - Research Paper Example This rivalry spanned years and periods in the lives of the people affected by the rivalry. It also went through different phases in for the countries concerned. This paper shall now discuss the objectives which the British and Russian Empires had in the course of the Great Game in Central Asia and Afghanistan. It shall provide the historical beginnings of the rivalry, including its highlights and significant events. It shall also discuss the significant objectives which the empires had in the Great Game. It shall also highlight the rivalry of the empires in Afghanistan and in Central Asia, as well as the impact and the overall goals achieved in these nations by these empires. Body Britain and Russia were involved in a major rivalry in Central Asia at the start of the nineteenth century; this went on to the early 1900s (Szczepanski, 2011). Much of Britain’s reasons for wanting control and influence over Central Asia have been tied in with its goal to establish a British India. Russia, on the other hand, was seeking to increase its territory as a means of establishing the largest empire in the world, and if gaining India from Britain would ensure this goal then it was willing to secure any means to conquer India (Szczepanski, 2011). ... This convention also set forth the border zone between these two empires, and later declared Afghanistan part of the British protectorate. Despite the establishment of this convention, the relationship between these two empires remained strained and tension-filled. This tension was somehow minimized when these territories allied with each other during the First World War. Specific details of this â€Å"Great Game† shall be discussed forthwith. In the latter part of the 19th century, the Russian and British Empire showed stirrings of a conflicting and tense meet-up. As Russia was expanding its power and territories to its east and southern borders, Britain’s power over its empire and territories was being threatened (Johnson, 2006). When British interests in India were also threatened, Britain became fully determined to secure its interests. This period marked a major rivalry between these two empires, and this ‘Great Game’ became clearly apparent in Europe and well into the Far Eastern region of Asia (Johnson, 2006). Prompted by Russia’s seeming interest in India, Britain increased its military activities in Afghanistan and Tibet, and many of these military activities were often disastrous for the countries involved (Johnson, 2006). From the early 18th to mid-19th centuries, Russia exercised its power over India which was then under British control. The Russians were not able to gain as much progress in terms of empirical conquests in the 1700s and 1800s, but in the 19th century, they were seriously posing a threat on India. The distance between the British and Russian empires was also starting to close in, and both empires were now aiming to conquer as much land as the land that lay between

Saturday, October 5, 2019

CHILDREN MODELING THEIR PARENTS' PROSOCIAL BEHAVIOR Research Paper

CHILDREN MODELING THEIR PARENTS' PROSOCIAL BEHAVIOR - Research Paper Example According his first two stages: when the children are between 3 to 6 years old (Stage 1) they cannot distinguish between their own interpretation of the situation and the other person’s point of view clearly. In the next stage (Stage 2, from 5 – 9 years) the children do realize the difference between their own perception and others but they are unable to understand it. This means that from the very early age the moral development of the child starts and the children learn and imitate their adults, with whom they are emotionally attached with, in their own social life (White, Burnam, 1975). Since from the recent years, the tradition of the families to live in isolation is becoming very common, therefore it is evident that most of the children, in the hope to be like them, are imitating their parents consciously or unconsciously (Schulman, & Mekler, 1994). The highest level of learning by a child is through modeled behavior. The chances of adoption will increase if the model is similar to the observer (child) and also share an admired status from him (Zohery, 1994). Children grow and discover best in the scenarios where they are appreciated and protected. Their physical desires are satisfied and they experience psychological security (Preusse, 2008). Keeping this in mind, the children that are exposed to pro- social activities by parents being their models can learn more quickly and adapt those qualities very easily as they are provided with the direction within a security. It has also been seen in the research that the young children who are very much dependent on others, aging from three to five are influenced by the modeling more, as compared to the elder children (Eisenberg, & Mussen, 1989). For this reason, they develop the psyche of the model and unconsciously they behave accordingly. Since in the childhood, the children are mos tly associated with their parents so automatically they develop the habits of their

Friday, October 4, 2019

Japanese festivals Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Japanese festivals - Essay Example Japanese Matsuri (festivals) are habitual festive events. There are in addition a variety of local festivals that are mainly unidentified external to a specified region. It is normally thought that one will for all time discover a festival everywhere in Japan. In Japan, festivals are typically supported by a confined temple or holy place, although they can be worldly. However, festivals are mostly originated just about one or two major occasions, with foodstuff stands, amusement and celebration playoffs to keep individuals occupied with entertainment. There is no particular matsuri time for every one in Japan, therefore dates differ from region to region and even inside an exact district, except festival days to be inclined to the group around the usual vacations for instance Setsubun or Obon. Approximately every surroundings has as a minimum of single matsuri in late summer or in the early days of autumn, generally linked to the rice yield. Noteworthy matsuri frequently characterist ic demonstrations which might absorb complicated drifts. Preparation for these demonstrations is generally prearranged at the stage of areas or in other words "machi."Previous to these, the neighbouring kami might be ritually mounted in mikoshi and procession all the way through the lanes. An individual can at all times discover in the surrounding area of a matsuri stalls selling mementos and foodstuff for example takoyaki and playoffs for example Goldfish scooping. Karaoke competitions, sumo games and other types of activity are repeatedly prearranged in concurrence with matsuri. Preferred essentials of the generally popular matsuri, for instance the Nada Kenka Matsuri of Himeji or the Neputa Matsuri of Hirosaki, are habitually televised on TV for the whole country to have the benefit of it. A number of festivals are mentioned below. Seijin Shiki (Coming of Age Day) Seijin Shiki is held on the 2nd Monday in January. Celebrations contain rituals held at neighbouring and territory workplaces and social gatherings among relatives and associates to rejoice course into middle age. Hinamatsuri (Doll Festival) The Japanese Doll Festival, or in other words Girl's Day, is supposed on 3rd March, the 3rd day of the 3rd month. Display places with a red hi-mosen are worn to present a position of decorative dolls, demonstrating the sovereign, empress, followers and performers in customary court clothes of the Heian era. Introduction to Japanese Culture 3 Hanami (Flower Viewing) Hanami is the Japanese conventional tradition of taking pleasure in the exquisiteness of flowers, "flower" in this situation is nearly at all times means cherry blossoms or Ume flowers. From late March to the untimely May, sakura flourish every where in Japan. The flower conjecture is proclaimed every year by the weather organizations and is observed cautiously by those who are doing the preparation of hanami as the flowers. In contemporary Japan, hanami mainly consists of containing an open-air party underneath the sakura through day

Thursday, October 3, 2019

Jack Johnson Essay Example for Free

Jack Johnson Essay Jack Johnson was born in Texas. He was the second in a family of nine children. His parents were slaves in their past then became successful Methodists. Speaking about his education, it must be mentioned that he studied at school only for five years and even was excommunicated for his statements about non-existence of the God. However, he succeeded in other field: it can be stated with certainty that the longest reigning Heavyweight Champion of the world was a man by the name of John Aurthur Jonson. (Zirin) Johnson had his first attack, a 16-round conquest, when he was 15. He became professional in 1897, working in private organizations and earning much money. Then he appeared under arrest and was imprisoned for the reason that boxing was an illegal occupation in Texas. Johnson left Galveston after release. (Horowitz 2007) In 1908, Johnson became a world champion after the battle with Tommy Burns. However he got the title only in 1910 after the fight with Jeffries in Las Vegas. After Johnson’s fight with Jeffries race rebellion started. The Texas Legislature forbade movies of his winnings over white boxes being afraid of more rebellion. In 1913, Johnson ran away because of concocted accusations of breaching the Mann Acts provisions against transporting white women to the country for prostitution. (Horowitz 2007) Speaking about his hobbies, Remnick states that â€Å"Johnson was fond of classical music and played the bass viol. In October, 1936, he took the role of Rhadames, the Ethiopian general, in a Chicago Grand Opera Company production of Aida. In no other country in the world are those who start at the bottom and reach the top more generally admired than in America. It is therefore quite impossible to exclude Johnson from Americas galaxy of self-made men, for he was certainly one of the most brilliant examples. His rise from poverty to international fame had in it all those elements of romance and glitter that unfailingly delight mankind. † (Remnick 2003) Johnsons fighting technique and sport achievements Johnsons fighting technique was extremely individual. He worked out a more tolerant method than one expected that time: fighting protectively, looking for an error, and after that using it correspondingly. Johnson for all time started a session carefully, gradually turning over the sessions into a more insistent boxer. He frequently struggled to penalize his enemies sooner than hit them out, continually passing up their knocks and hitting with speedy blows. He usually showed that he had much more to present and, if pressed, he managed to blow rather effectively. (Zirin) Johnsons method was extremely successful; however it was assessed in the media as gutless and conniving. On the contrary, the white champion Jim Corbett had applied a lot of the identical method as ten years before, and was called by the media the cleverest man in boxing. One of the principal benefits of his techniques is that Johnson was able to make huge systematization of the already existing fighting methods. This is clearly seen through the strict structure of the fight, with each part addressing the separate aspect of the battle. (Horowitz 2007) Thus, step by step, the spectator fills the image of the fight which he has shown with additional aspects and details, making it multidimensional. The principal difference and one of the main advantages of this technique is that it is done through the protection, during which Johnson was learning the methods of his opponent to find a mistake then. (Zirin) This showed the perfect knowledge of the battle techniques that Johnson possessed – in order to understand techniques he should have known them pretty well. Methodology which was used by the boxer is mostly learning – Johnson spent rather long time speaking to people about the techniques to gather all information possible. As it was clear, the technique was absolutely strict, vivid, logical and correct. (Zirin) â€Å"No better proof of Johnsons skill can be cited than the fact that his face, ears, and skin, unlike those of most pugilists, bore no disfiguring marks. † (Remnick 2003) By 1902, Johnson triumphed in no less than 50 battles with black white and adversaries. He got his first title in 1903, in the fight with Denver Ed Martin. His attempts to get the full rank were let down as because Heavyweight Champion James J. Jeffries rejected to fight with him because he was black. Actually, Negroes could fight with white people however the heavyweight competition was very appreciated and popular arrangement in America that Negroes were not considered praiseworthy to take part in it. Nevertheless, Johnson had a chance to have a battle with ex- champion Bob Fitzsimmons in 1907. He finally got the World Heavyweight Title in 1908, after his fight with the world champion Tommy Burns. The battle had fourteen rounds and them was stopped because the Johnson’s opponent was severely defected. After this winning over Burns, ethnic hostility among white people became so serious that a collectivist like Jack London spoke about Great White Hope to get the title back from black man — who was rudely illustrated as a subhuman chimpanzee, bring it back it to the place it must be at, with the better white race. Being title owner, Johnson therefore had to fight many opponents billed by advertisers as great white hopes, usually in presentation competitions. In 1909 Johnson defeated such fighters as Tony Ross, Victor McLaglen, Al Kaufman, Frank Moran, Stanley Ketchel. â€Å"The match with Ketchel was keenly fought by both men until the 12th and last round, when Ketchel threw a right to Johnsons head, knocking him down. Slowly regaining his feet, Johnson threw a straight to Ketchels jaw, knocking him out, along with several of his teeth. His fight with Philadelphia Jack OBrien was a disappointing one for Johnson: though scaling 205 pounds to OBriens 161, he could only achieve a six-round draw with the great middleweight. † (Remnick 2003) Johnson had three wives; all of them were white women. However, he had no children. He died in the automobile accident happened on June 10, 1946, in North Carolina. Conclusion The fights of Johnson could be viewed as the basis for deep analysis and understanding of the methods which existed in the previous fights. The significance of the technique analyzed here is not under any doubts; it has become clear that the methods used by Johnson is so successful that it cannot be stated any other fighter has been able to create a better one even over the recent years. The significance of this technique is more increased through the two following factors: first of all, it has been done from inside of the battle with Johnson undertaking multiple efforts to learn partner’s technique; and second, making the serious conclusions touching the need of opponent’s behavior learning. (Stump 1963) Works Cited Remnick, David Struggle for his soul, The Observer, 2003 Zirin, Dave The Hidden History of Muhammad Ali, Edge of Sports Stump, Al. The rowdy reign of the Black avenger. True: The Mens Magazine January 1963. Horowitz, Adam, et al. 101 Dumbest Moments in Business, CNN. com, 2007

The History Of The Transformational Leadership Education Essay

The History Of The Transformational Leadership Education Essay Theories of leadership, over decades have explored a wide variety of concepts. Much research has been undertaken keeping in mind the western society both relating to organizations as well as political and other leaders. There is a dearth of a systematic leadership study in regards to either organizations or political leadership in third world countries especially in Pakistan. Journalistic appraisals are commonly done but theoretical analysis is sorely missing. Also, not much work has been done to explore the concept of transformational leadership among politicians both here and abroad. This paper wishes in some way to minimize this lack. When reading about Bhuttos life, the easiest course of action would have been to view her from the perspective of traits or simply charisma. The paper explores the contemporary concept of transformational leadership with regards to Benazir Bhutto. Her assassination formed the motivational factor to conduct such a research particularly on a personalit y known nationally and internationally as a leader. In addition, quantitative small scale researches are usually conducted from time to time, but very little attention is given to qualitative/descriptive/documentary research. Four aspects of transformational leadership that were studied include idealized influence, inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation and individualized consideration. Keywords: Transformational leadership, there are 4 main factors: idealized influence, inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation, individualized consideration. 1. Introduction Leadership is not easy. It is never meant to be easy. It is born of a passion, and it is a commitment-a commitment to an idea, to principles, to fundamental human values. Benazir Bhutto 2. Transformational leadership: An overview The term though coined by Downton (1973), the concept first emerged with the work of Burns (1978) which linked the role between leadership and followership. This new theory of leadership had intensive interest for two reasons. Western companies, like ATT, IBM, GM, ventured into transformations and in the 1970s and 1980à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ²s the business world became very much dynamic, more competitive and less stable. Fast technological changes, great international competition, commercial deregulation, too much capacity in capital intensive industries, unsteadiness of oil cartels, demographic labour changes etc., are some of the factors which brought to such a state (Stoner and Freeman, 1992). Second, leaderships theoretic base rested on the trait theory, behaviouristic theory of leaders and contingency theory of leadership which did not take into consideration untypical qualities of leaders which required a new leadership concept. Therefore the transformational theory of leadership gave forth a new dimension to leadership studies. Burns (1978) concept distinguished between two types of leadership, namely transactional and transformational. Transactional refers to the exchanges between leaders and followers, where as transformational is when the person engages with others and creates a connection which raises level of motivation in both the leader and the follower. Some of the examples of internationally known transformational leaders include Mahatma Ghandi, Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King. One question that comes to mind is about leaders like Hitler who also transformed society? Can they also be called Transformational leaders? When people transform society in negative ways and do not raise level of morality in others, they are described as Pseudo transformational leaders. They are self consumed, power oriented and exploitative with warped moral values. There has been some research done on political leadership but the focus of these studies have usually been on just one aspect namely charisma (Bligh, Kohles and Meindl 2004 a&b; Emrich, Brower, Feldman and Garland, 2001; Mio, Riggio Levin and Reese, 2005; Seyranian and Bligh, 2007) and especially keeping in mind high profile leaders such as United States presidents (House, Spangler and Woycke, 1991). Most of such research has a quantitative analysis where the analysis may not overlook creative insights but also due to its frequent usage it is made to be more meaningful and most often words can be taken out of context. (Bligh et al., 2004b; Insch et al., 1997; Morris, 1994) 3. Transformational leadership of Bhutto This research on Bhutto will be assessed on four parameters of idealized influence, inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation and individualized consideration which have been summed up as stated earlier. Each quality will first be individually analyzed and then compared to what journalists and others have stated on Bhuttos behalf. 3.1 Idealized influence According to this concept transformational leaders often serve as role models for their followers. The leaders are admired respected and trustedà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦having extraordinary capabilities, persistence and determination (Bass and Riggio, 2006). Not only this, but leadership theory should also stress on incidents where a leader has exerted exceptional influence on their followers so as to obtain favourable results (Bass, 1985; Mumford, 2006). This concept of idealized influence is based on leadership that has a future oriented vision and provides meaning and direction to a particular cause (Bass, 1990; Shamir, House and Arthur, 1993). Recent research also gives emphasis on ideological leadership where leaders seek followers who believe in the goals and value systems that give emphasis on the prescriptive mental model being given (Mumford, 2006). A current research which examines three areas of leadership has ideological factor as one of the main components (Mumford, Antes, Caughro n Friedrich, 2008). Thus, keeping all these factors in mind the assessment of Bhutto as having idealized influence on her followers has been undertaken. 3.2 Inspirational motivation According to this concept transformational leaders motivate and inspire those around them by providing meaning and challenge to their followers work. (Bass and Riggio, 2006) Such leaders envisage a future goal, a shared vision which they want their followers to share and achieve with them. Apart from this, such leaders portray great charisma which allows them to bind their followers to themselves and lead them towards social change. This concept of charismatic leadership is also not a new but a much researched one. It is one of the way in which one can understand an aspect of effective leadership (Hughes, Ginnett and Curphy, 2003). As previously stated the concept was initially used by Weber (1947) to understand and describe the characteristics political religious and military leaders. Later the concept was expanded by others to give and different conceptualization of charismatic leadership (House, 1977; Sashkin,1988; Shamir, House and Arthur 1993) and also became a part of transform ational leadership in the theories of Bass and Avolio.(1994) Concept of charismatic leadership which becomes a part of the motivational factor has been studied. The concept of visionary charismatic leadership is very important especially in times of crises as indicated in the study of Hunt, Boal and Dodge (1999). Two further aspects came to the forefront with on the one hand followers prefer leaders who portray charisma in conditions of crises (Pillai and Meindl, 1998) and followers attributing self sacrificial behaviour of the leader under crisis conditions who were more likely to portray charisma (Halverson, Holladay, Kazama,and Quinoes (2004). Such studies portray the fact that stressful conditions do affect both the leader and the follower in how they are inspired and view charisma. Another aspect of inspirational motivation is to deal with how such leader appeal to their followers. Emotions of people are appealed to and self worth is enhanced (Emrich, Brower, Feldman and Garland, 2001; House, Spangler and Woyke, 1991) Bhuttos inspirational motivation can be analyzed into two areas, namely to motivate and empower others on a shared vision and her charisma. On the count of motivating others, many authors have given glowing tributes. Gordon Brown (2008) calls it a part of her legacy that women are empoweredà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ and would use her for future role models; Miliband (2008) and Schofield (2008) describe her commitment towards democracy as a motivating factor; Lamb (2008) recalls her spouse Zardari calling his wife the queen bee whose workers needed her alive to continue their struggle; Gopal (2008) realizes that Bhutto did inspire a generation both in life and in death to struggle for democracy; Prasannarajan (2008) states that despite threats she never shrank from her responsibility, took up challenges and made personal sacrifices for her vision and that such motivation is rarely seen; Baker (2008) sees the signing of the charter of democracy between two political opponents namely Bhutto and Sh arif as a factor to restore decent politics and cjoining hands on a common denominator; Chua-Eoan (2008) despite critical comments concedes that Bhutto both in life and death drew millions. remember her party official Babar Awan calling her beautiful that day, in all the ways that a woman like her -bright energetic bursting with ideas and hope-could look beautiful. Such charisma denotes why Bhutto had many staunch supporters. 3.3 Intellectual stimulation Such transformational leaders stimulate their followers efforts to be innovative and creative. Followers are encouraged to try out new ideas and such ideas are viewed in the light that a better solution to the problem may be realized. Followers are not criticized if their ideas are in any way different from the ideas of the leader (Bass and Riggio, 2006). This concept has been explained differently and in various contexts. Some call it as a quality of a pragmatic leader. Such a leader does require their workers to unite and work for common goals (Mumford and Van Doorn, 2001). In a recent study Mumford et al (2008) realized that for the emergence of pragmatic leaders there has to be a minimum level of group cohesion. Apart from this, the same study also indicated that pragmatic leaders may seek to minimize political conflict due to the detrimental effects of intense conflict on the effective application of complex problem solving skills. This factor is an important aspect of intellect ual stimulation as such a quality can harness together differing viewpoints and opinions even from the opposition. Emotionally intelligent leadership is also an attribute of great leadership (Goleman, 1995) Practical intelligence and the need to modify any environment to suit the situation is also what transformational leaders need to do. Another aspect of intellectual stimulation can be accessed through the lens of aesthetic perception. This recent qualitative study by Ladkin (2008), embodies and focuses on leading beautifully and will lead to a different direction for leadership studies in the future. Followers can get stimulated in a wide variety of ways. The power to arouse ones followers intellectually can have lasting effects. An example of it would be Obamas books being published before the election campaigns. 3.4 Individualized Consideration Once again transformational leaders pay attention to followers needs for achievement and growth by acting as a coach and mentor. New ways and opportunities of learning are evolved and individual desires and needs are seen to. The individual is regarded as a whole person rather than just an employee, and the task of the leader is to develop the followers. (Bass and Riggio, 2006) This aspect is seen under two areas. The first one is her immense kindness to others and her concern for them. Schofield (2008) speaks of her 33 year association with Bhutto and states that as a friend, she was kind and generous. Barak (2008) recalls his own incident of injury and her kindness to him which must have endeared her to people the world over. In a similar manner, Thapar (2008) too remembers Bhutto giving regular calls when his own wife was seriously ill. Lamb (2008) too speaks of Bhuttos hand written will which she had written prior to her death as how to dispose of her belongings with details of how even her shoes and clothes should be distributed among her employees.