The Whistleblower Protection Act Essay Example for Free

The Whistleblower Protection Act Essay The Whistleblower Protection Act was designed to provide legal safety measures to individuals occupying positions in the federal government who reveal questionable and unlawful operations within the government agencies.   The Act thus shelters the employee that has disclosed the information so that he will remain protected from any biased actions that may be executed by his superiors in that particular government agency.   This protection is a special precautionary measure that is well compensated in order to maintain the employee status of truthfully reporting the illegal activities that should be investigated by the government. The Whistleblower Protection Act was drafted to include four approaches to activate protection as a whistleblower.   Firstly, the employee who wishes to disclose a questionable operation of another member of the government agency may file an appeal to the Merit Systems Protection Board of his particular agency.   Another approach may be to request for the protection from the special counsel of the government agency. Protection may also be requested through the appeal for individual protection per se.   An employee may also request for whistleblower protection through grievance procedures, wherein the employee reports the grievances and hardships he experiences after he discloses information regarding the illegal operations that he has observed within the government agency.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The Whistleblower Protection Act was carefully designed so that not every employee that reports an incident will be immediately protected based on the features of the Act.   Such careful implementation of the protection act was established because it is important that only deserving individuals are provided with the protection that is needed and not all individuals who express their â€Å"concern† over an activity will be safeguarded from any associated reactions that may be given by the employee that is being reported (Wilmot, 2000). The Whistleblower Protection Act is therefore established to proceed initially with an investigation regarding the disclosure that was submitted by an employee.   In addition, the disclosure should be properly endorsed by the head of the office where the employee is working for.   Should this endorsement be absent, the Whistleblower Protection Act will not be implemented.    The present Whistleblower Protection Act is thus available to all federal employees, both those in active duty and those who have retired or resigned, and even those employees who are in the higher positions.   A few positions in the federal government, such as those involved in making agency policies, are not covered by the Whistleblower Protection Act, as well as those employees working at the postal office and the Central Intelligence Agency.   The employees of the Federal Bureau of Investigation are also not provided with the features of the Whistleblower Protection Act.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   A revelation that is presented by an employee should be evaluated to be of substantial information that is well-proven to positively violate the laws and policies of the government agency.   Any violation may be associated with the wrongful management of the government agency or a substantial squandering of government funds.   In addition, any misuse of an official of his powers over the government agency may also be considered as disclosed information by which may activate the Whistleblower Protection Act and be implemented to protect the employee that has disclosed the violation. Other issues that are deemed worthy of activating the protection act may include any information that may cause harm to the general public, such as safety and sickness.   Once the disclosure has been submitted by the concerned employee to his supervisor, this report should be submitted to the head of the government agency.   As soon as this disclosure report is submitted to the head of the government agency, the Whistleblower Protection Act should be discussed with the employee who has reported the violation of another employee.   The features of the protection act should be comprehensively explained so that the employee will understand how the protection act works.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The Whistleblower Protection Act was also designed in order to amend an earlier act which was known as the Civil Service Reform Act.   The amendment was based on the modification of the term disclosure in the older reform act and this was replaced by the newer protection act that pertains to any type of report so that employees may have the liberty to report any misuse and abuse of authority within the government agency.   The protection act was also devised to prevent any forms of hindrance that would inhibit the employee from his disclosure of the information he knows with regards to the illegal activities that he observes within the government agency.    There are only a very few cases wherein the Whistleblower Protection Act was not provided to an employee who, after thorough investigation by the appropriate review of the government agency, has discovered that the disclosure that the employee was submitting was based on his goal of acquiring personal gain and benefit.   It is thus important that a meticulous and detailed investigation of the disclosure be performed first before any other measure is performed.   Should the review committee find that the disclosure of the employee does not serve any beneficial purpose but for the employee’s personal gain alone, subsequent actions and the corresponding implementation of the Whistleblower Protection Act will not be exercised.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The Whistleblower Protection Act has also experienced a few issues with regards to the technicalities of its design and implementation.   One of the most reviewed and discussed technical issue about the protection act is the phrase â€Å"any disclosure.†Ã‚   The word â€Å"any† was intentionally included in the definitions of the protection act in order to include all forms of reports and does not prematurely filter any disclosures and this has been designed in order to collect as much reports as may be submitted.    The selection and review of the reports are thus handled by the review committee which is mandated to thoroughly study all reports and disclosures that are submitted to them.   The main basis for identification of a valuable disclosure that is submitted by an employee is the fact that the disclosure shows equitable certainty that a mismanagement or abuse of authority or operation is occurring within the government agency. Equitable certainty of the disclosed information is mainly based on the good faith that is shown by the employee reporting the incident.   The Whistleblower Protection Act is also designed wherein an employee may report to any of his superior officials within the government agency, allowing freedom for the employee to report the information he carries with trust and confidentiality.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   It should be understood that the Whistleblower Protection Act will only be implemented if the employee is reporting a specific gross mismanagement or misuse of authority by another individual in the government agency.   Should the review committee find that the employee is only disclosing an insignificant amount of questionable activities, the review committee will then provide ample time for the employee to gather more information about the other employee being reported and at the same time will monitor the actions being executed by the employee being reported. Should there be a new additional report regarding the questionable employee, the disclosing employee will immediately be given protection from any probable harm that he may experience during his occupation at the government agency.   The information being disclosed will also be made confidential within the government agency because this secured information will affect the condition of the employee within his workplace (White, 2006). Protection to the employee may include the prevention of any actions that are associated with his position, including any reassignment to another office, termination and even promotion to a higher position.   Such changes in the position of the employee who has disclosed any information on the mismanagement or misuse of another employee is thus unlawful and should be protected by the Whistleblower Protection Act.    References White SM (2006):   Confidentiality, no blame culture and whistleblowing, non-physician practice and accountability. Best Pract. Res. Clin. Anaesthesiol.   20(4):525-43. Wilmot S (2000):   Nurses and whistleblowing: The ethical issues.   J. Adv. Nurs.   32(5):1051-7.

Platos Forms Essay -- essays research papers

I. Introduction Purpose I intend to show the validity of Plato's arguments about his theory of Forms. Aristotle, along with others, cross-examines Plato's proposals. Yet, I happen to see the potential of his point of view and would like to take a deeper look into his theory. The purpose of this paper is to critically analyze the theory of Plato's Forms from his perspective and that of several others, including Aristotle. Topics The topics in which I will mainly focus on will be Forms as universals, Forms as separate entities (substances), Universe as two realities, and Forms as final causes. For the most part, the topics are interwoven together yet I will try to separate them in such a fashion as to provide sufficient arguments for each main topic. II. "In View of Plato's Theory of Forms" Topic #1: Forms as Universals "The essence of [Plato's] theory of Ideas (Forms) lay in the conscious recognition of the fact that there is a class of entities, for which the best name is probably "universal," that are entirely different from sensible things" (Allen 18). Plato's theory of Forms assumed that Forms are universal and exist as substances. Aristotle firmly disagrees with the idea of Forms being universals. In Scaltsas' Substances and Universals in Aristotle's Metaphysics, he defines universals as being "the object of understanding and thought, the object of knowledge, and indeed of scientific knowledge†¦" (33). Plato's first argument for his idea that Forms are universals uses mathematics and the sciences to explain his theory. According to Plato, science is the 'body of universal and necessary truths' (Jones 125). Jones also pointed out Plato's view that since math is a science, 'there must be forms to be the objects of mathematical knowledge.' "Nothing other than eternal, unchanging forms can qualify to be the objects of scientific knowledge." (Jones 125) Plato also described mathematical objects as being universals and separate substances (Cherniss 180). In Nicholas Denyer's article titled "Plato's Theory of Stuffs" he claims that Plato's argument on Forms, as universals, is valid. He believe... ...elements. Plato's arguments did have some value though but in order for them to stand with the highest merit, they should be revised and refined. There is much relevance for Plato's theory of Forms in today's society. Forms were a way in which Plato defined reality and they can still be used in order for others to find a reality for themselves. In looking at Plato's view, as well as others, it has helped me to see more clearly my concept of reality and the final causes in which I strive for. Forms exist still today; for example, Justice, Beauty, Equality, Truth, and Goodness. Even though people may not realize it, they are searching for final causes, or Forms. "It is easy to understand why and how the Forms are the ultimate objects of human striving. Since they are unchanging and pure, the Forms provide a type of satisfaction that is unavailable from any other source. Not only are we unable to completely possess them, which fires our desire, but also they endure, unlike lesser things that ultimately fall into nonbeing" (Teloh 134).

A Study on the Demographic Factors Influencing the Adoption of E-Banking in India Essay

E – Banking has become a rising concern for academics. It is the innovation of e- banking that has resulted in cost and time reduction for the employees and consumers for the completion of their banking transactions. Banks have now devised more internet based solutions. The research has a wide scope as it focuses on the factors that influence the acceptance of the software offered by banks. Overview In the recent years information technology has fundamentally changed the banking industry worldwide. The innovation of internet banking has changed the way banking is being done and has offered the banks with a lot of challenges and opportunities. Banking industry faces a critical challenge in the adoption of online banking as the knowledge is very limited in India and there is an essential need to study that. The slow adoption of e- banking in India can also be because of poor education, economies, infrastructure and trust also plays an important role. This research will help in understanding the factors that affect the adoption of internet banking such as social, demographic and customer attitudes and perception which will enable banks to find out solutions to attract the customers through the e- banking services and hence gain a high market share in the banking industry. The motivation for this research arose because there has been a rapid development of e- banking in India but the concern is that whether customers demand for these services based on their income, education, internet usage and levels of customer ownership and acceptance. There has been an increase in the number of internet users but a very small fraction of those do their banking transactions online because of lack of trust and several other factors. This study will explore e- banking facilities through the consumer’s eyes and seek to understand the attitude and behavior of consumers towards e-banking which will help the banks to formulate campaigns to encourage the adoption of e-banking. Research Question This research will examine the factors playing an important role in the adoption of e- banking by the people in India. This report will give a recommendation on the improvement of the banks future course of action for the increasing use of e- banking. The final report will benefit the bank in improving the accessibility of the service to improve the adoption of e- banking which will form the basis of the research. The research includes the following questions: 1. What are the drivers for the adoption of e- banking in India? 2. What is the influence and role of age on the adoption of e- banking? 3. What is the influence of education and its role on adoption of e- banking? 4. What is the influence of income and its role on adoption of e- banking? 5. What is influence of trust or social influence or social status in accepting internet banking? 6. What are the steps recommended that should be undertaken by banks to improve the adoption among customers? Aim The main aim of the research is to point out on the barriers and benefits of adopting e-banking services in India and enriching the understanding and knowledge of factors influencing the adoption of e- banking services. Objectives 1. To examine the role of income, age, education, social status and their impacts on adoption of e- banking in India. 2. To understand other factors responsible for the acceptance of e – banking. 3. To understand the importance of e- banking in the improvement of banking facilities provided to the customers. 4. To understand the risks faced from e – banking  5. To describe the demographic difference between the users of e-banking and the nonusers, this will help understand the behavioral strategies of the customers. 6. Develop recommendations for banks on improving the accessibility and security for the customers. 7. To analyze the factors that discourages the customers from using e- banking services. Literature Review The research is based on theory testing. A number of factors have been identified that are responsible for the hampering or proliferation of adoption of technology among general public (Kumbhar, 2011). Recently, internet has been found as the prime channel for devising banking solutions for general public (Kumbhar, 2011, Tan et al., 2009). This popularity of internet has made the global and local competition very fierce (Gan.C, Mike.C, Limsombunchai.V.et.al 2006). The behavior or intentions of people have been considered as the main determinant in successful adoption of internet and technology (Fishbein and Ajzen, 1975). Researcher in the past have paid attention to the factors such as convenience, trialability, compatibility and relative advantage for the adoption of new technology, with almost less attention towards the demographic factors and their influence (Or et al., 2011, Rogers,1995). There are very few who have identified factors of age, income and education level and gender on the acceptance of the banking technologies (Al-Gahtani and King, 1999, Al-Somali et al., 2008). Moreover, age, accessibility of internet, education and the awareness of electronic banking and resistance of users were of paramount importance (Sohail and Shanmugham, 2004). Others have identified age, marital status, ethical background, qualification, income and residence area as the drivers (Gan et al., 2006). The disparities among the adoption of male and female users were deemed to be varying according to studies (Sharman and Kirsty, 2006). Many of the researchers have based their findings on the empirical evidence that acceptance of electronic banking is more in cases with higher level of education and higher level financial status in consumers or general public (Kolodinsky et al., 2000). Individual attitudes that consumers have and their beliefs are of more importance that factors of demographics for the adoption of new technology (Kolodinsky et al., 2000). Other factors such as privacy, security and convenience were found to be more prevalent among female users than males (Shergill and Li, 2005). Context The banking industry has revolutionized with the advances in information technology and the emergence of electronic banking. Increase in the competition and globalization has resulted in the change of the banking and the financial services. There is a rapid change in the demand of these financial services and the consumer’s behavior towards these services. It has become necessary to adopt new strategies with the change of traditional banking to electronic banking. Studies show that the awareness of new technologies and software in India is less which is the biggest obstacle. Though the e- banking system has reached globally there is huge gap in the adoption of these services between the developed countries and the developing countries. (licker and Motts, 2004). The problem in India is that the customers have not transferred their attitude towards using bank operations over the internet they believe in the old traditional way of banking. Some customers do not know how to use a computer others do not like the technology. There is lack of proper infrastructure and the internet connections are broken and slow in some places. Customers are not very confident using ATM machines. They are afraid of making purchases over the internet as they think that any small error will result in loosing money. Many people find the internet connections costs expensive. Despite of having such easy and better internet banking services the customers do not use it therefore the customer’s acceptance of e- banking need to be understood and the factors affecting the intention of their use of e – banking. The issue is critical as the answer to it will help in promoting a new form of e – banking system in future.

Tips on How to Write an Argumentative Essay

To be effective, an argumentative essay must contain elements to help persuade the audience to see things from your perspective. These components include a compelling topic, a balanced assessment, strong evidence, and persuasive language. Find a Good Topic and Point of View To find a good topic for an argumentative essay, consider several issues and choose a few that spark at least two solid, conflicting points of view. As you look over a list of topics, find one that really piques your interest, as youll be more successful if youre passionate about your topic. Once you have selected a topic you feel strongly about, make a list of points for both sides of the argument. When shaping an argument youll have to explain why your belief is reasonable and logical, so list points you can use as evidence for or against an issue. Ultimately, determine your side of the argument and make sure you can back up your point of view with reasoning and evidence. Work against the opposing point of view and prove why your stance is correct. Gather Evidence One of your essays first objectives will be to assess both sides of your issue. Consider strong arguments for both your side, as well as the other side—in order to shoot their statements down. Provide evidence without drama; sticking to the facts and clear examples that support your stance. You may look for research that provides statistics on your topic that support your reasoning, as well as examples of how your topic impacts people, animals, or even the Earth. Interviewing experts on your topic can also help you structure a compelling argument. Write the Essay Once youve given yourself a solid foundation of information, begin to craft your essay. An argument essay, as with all essays, should contain three parts: the introduction, the body, and the conclusion. The length of paragraphs in these parts will vary depending on the length of your essay assignment. As in any essay, the first paragraph of your argument essay should introduce the topic with a brief explanation of your topic, some background information, and a thesis statement. In this case, your thesis is a statement of your position on a specific controversial topic. Present Both Sides of the Controversy The body of your essay should contain the meat of your argument. Go into more detail about the two sides of your topic and state the strongest points of the counter-side of your issue. After describing the other side, present your own viewpoint and then provide evidence to show why your position is the correct one. Work to discredit the other side using some of the information you discovered in your research. Choose your strongest evidence and present your points one by one. Use a mix of evidence, from statistics to other studies and anecdotal stories. Conclusion A strong conclusion can help summarize your point of view and reinforce with your reader why your stance is the best option. You might consider reserving one overwhelmingly shocking statistic for the conclusion, one that leaves no room for doubt in your readers mind. At the very least, use this final paragraph or two as an opportunity to restate your position as the most sensible one. Final Tips When writing your essay, consider these tips to help craft the most rational and poignant argument for your readers. Avoid emotional language that can sound irrational. Know the difference between a logical conclusion and an emotional point of view. Dont fabricate evidence and dont use​ ​untrustworthy sources for evidence, and be sure to cite your sources.