Recent orders
This paper provides an in depth analysis as to why the privatization should not be assumed.
Abstract
It can not be disputed that a significant percentage of Americans benefit significantly from the social security program. In the recent past, the sustainability of this program has been questioned and concerns regarding its long term financing have been raised. Relevant stakeholders have proposed various intervention measures that can be used to counter the scenario. The underlying aim of this program is to safeguard the health of the American population as well as their pension. Among the options that have been suggested to address the inherent issues pertain to privatization of the program. This paper indicates that privatization at this point of time will impact adversely on the welfare of the beneficiaries. As such, other options especially pertaining to review of taxes need to be explored to provide viable solutions.
Key Words: Social security, anti-privatization, health
Anti-Privatization of Social Security
The social security program of the United States began in 1935 under the leadership of President Roosevelt. The main aim of this was to offer a safety net and protect the health of American workers as well as their families during incidences of early death, disability or retirement. Since then, the program has greatly benefited the American population and currently, statistical evidence shows that a significant fifty six million are beneficiaries. However, concerns regarding the sustainability of the relative program have been raised in the recent past. In particular, it as been projected that this program would not be able to sustain its operations as cost benefits is likely to exceed the tax revenues by 2016. This will have far reaching implications on its holistic welfare and it might be threatened by insolvency by 2032. Certainly, intervention measures need to be undertaken in a timely manner to counter this. Regardless of the inherent urgency, the privatization suggestion is not worthwhile and should not be assumed. Besides having negative effects on the beneficiaries, it very implementation is compounded by various complexities. This paper provides an in depth analysis as to why the privatization should not be assumed. To enhance coherence, it suggests an alternative solution that can be used to address the current problem.
To begin with, offsetting a privatization system is costly and will probably impact negatively on the already vulnerable situation. In order to enhance a harmonic transition, the government would be required to continue providing for the beneficiaries with required services. In other words, the process would run parallel to the current system; implying the need to source for alternative funds to finance the implementation process. According to Holman, this will cost it an estimated one to two trillion dollars in extra (Holman, 2009). Generally, the upfront costs that are essential for implementing the program are massive. Other relative costs would be employed in carrying out capacity building to the public. Further, there would be need to consult amongst major stakeholders in order to capture their individual views regarding the issue. The need to mainstream all concerns in the implementation process is fundamental as it enhances sustainability. Notably, the process is bureaucratic and is likely to consume a significant percentage of resources. For a system that is already susceptible to financial problems, privatization at this stage is apparently harmful.
Currently, the social security program has a centralized system of operation. All benefits are provided by a single institution and dictated entirely by the government. Thus the procedures are simple and well defined. This has made follow up of certain concerns easy and has improved its efficiency. Swedniman and Nicola (2008) posit that privatization is likely to alter the current state of affairs and culminate in decentralization of the process. In order to enhance optimal functioning, this would be compelled to factor in diverse preferences and opinions of millions of individuals. In addition, the process would be expected to incorporate the complex expectations of the stakeholders such as investors. Although this is important, it is worth noting that it is likely to have far reaching effects on the beneficiaries. Moreover, the relative policies are likely to be altered in order to capture these concerns. For instance, Koitz (2001) indicates that privatization is likely to reduce integral insurance protections like survivors insurance an disability insurance that are currently provided by the system. Reportedly, these cuts would be expected to go towards financing the program. In the long run, Koitz (2001) contends that the program is likely to undermine the quality of life of the Americans that benefit immensely from it.
In their review, Orszag and Diamond (2005) cite that privatization essential entails putting the retirement benefits of the public in stock exchange. This environment has potential problems, is volatile and can be risky because of the inherent uncertainty. This is particularly so because the stock market is crowded with unscrupulous stock brokers whose main aim is to fulfill their financial dreams. This would make the retirement benefits liable to being misused or lost altogether in ambiguous deals. Moreover, it limits the autonomy of the owners of these benefits who would be willing to explore their individual investment options. Besides, effective participation in it requires a clear understanding of the economic and financial trend of the country. Notably, the intricate relations that characterize the environment are complex and most of the public is not conversant with constituent procedures. Modigliani (2003) contends that indeed, the structure o the stock market and investment portfolio is very complex. As such, it may not be easily understood by the public that does not have background information or interest in the system. This exposes the beneficiaries to an uncertain environment and compromises their ability to benefit from the system. Undoubtedly, this has adverse effects on its holistic wellbeing.
In conclusion, it is certain that the privatization of social security is a complex process that has potential negative impacts on the beneficiaries. As it has come out form the preceding analysis, the costs of starting the process are very huge because of the need to continue financing the current system simultaneously. Then, privatization is likely to culminate in decentralization of the process and relative policies regarding cuts in benefits impacts negatively on the quality of life of the beneficiaries. Also worth appreciating is the investment in the stock market issue that risks the retirement benefits of the affected population. Besides the public having little knowledge about the complex structure of the stock market, the very market is compounded by volatility and uncertainty. At this point, it can not be disputed that irrespective of the dire need to counter the current shortcomings in the social security system, privatization does not offer the best solutions. The most viable solution would be to implement tax reforms that would boost the financial welfare of the system. In particular, the solution lies in pushing for a regressive value added tax or a flat tax. This would ensure that the working segment of the population contribute a bigger share towards the system. Comparatively, it is better than privatization.
References
Holman, J. (2009). Can Obama make government solvent? Wall Street Journal, 3 (1), 12-13
Modigliani, F. (2003). Rethinking pension reform. UK: Cambridge University Press.
Koitz, D. (2001). Seeking the middle ground on social security reform. Stanford: Hoover Institution.
Orszag, P., & Diamond, P. (2005). Saving social security: A balanced approach. Washington: Brookings Institution Press.
Swendiman, K., & Nicola, T. (2008). Social security reform: Legal analysis of social security benefit entitlement issues. Congressional Research Service, Aging.Senat.Gov, 1 (1), 5-8.
This paper provides a review of the themes of revolution and transformation in Yeats Easter 1916, Leda and the Swan and The S
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Poetry Analysis
Introduction
The content of any given literary work is usually comprised of various aspects that contribute differently to the entire piece. Writers lay great emphasis on striking a balance between these components in order to enhance harmony and at the same time be able to achieve their ultimate goal of relaying critical information to the audience. One of the most important aspects of the poetry content pertains to themes. In most of his works, Yeats explores the themes of revolution and transformation. These are imperative not only for the development of the respective plots but also in the presentation of important information to the audience. This paper provides a review of the themes of revolution and transformation in Yeats Easter 1916, Leda and the Swan and The Second Coming.
In Easter 1916, Yeats emphasizes the fact that the revolution was an important and beneficial experience through the repetition of the phrase “A terrible beauty is born”. In this respect, it is certain that the independence of Irish from England was a great achievement and bore beneficial effects on the former. The conditions of the uprising according to the author had diverse implications on the personalities of different individuals. This in some instances resulted in the straining of relationships between the author and other individuals. Yet regardless of this, all efforts were geared towards achieving independence. In his review, Fletcher argues that the revolution in this regard succeeded in instilling virtues and heroic values in individuals who were overly egocentric (Fletcher 58). Although the society had initially perceived them to be worthless, the revolution transformed them to worthy individuals. This is an exemplification of the beneficial effects of the revolution. The author contends that this change is important for a country to realize any progressive transformation development wise. The inherent unity and the urge to work towards attaining a particular goal are apparently beneficial fruits of the revolution.
The theme of transformation has also been given a central position in the poem Leda and the Swan. From a historical and religious point of view, interaction between humans and the deity was not popular. Hence by interacting sexually with the swan, which represented the deity, the girl in this regard underwent some transformation. The result of this had diverse revolutionary impacts on the then society. In particular, Donoghues indicates that it culminated in the Neolithic revolution that saw the women assume dominant roles in the society (Donoghues 35). In this respect, women transformed from being reserved to taking up important leadership positions in the society. In addition, this sexual experience implied that both sexes need to complement each other in order for them to attain optimal performance. As much as a woman needs a man to support her in different ways, a man also requires a woman in order to attain any form of transformation. The importance of this mutual benefit has been the center of concern for Yeats in Leda and the Swan.
Likewise, the themes of transformation and revolution are also explored at length in The Second Coming. In this, Yeats employs his gyre to symbolize the intrinsic dynamism in activities that occur on a global scale. The rotation implies a cyclic nature of different events that occur in the world as well as their varying nature. In this respect, Gioia posits that this is the author’s imagination of the revolution of the earth that culminates in a cyclic effect (Gioia 57). The revolution is comprised of different seasons that occur at varied times of the year and which have diverse implications on human and animal survival. In essence, the changes lead to a state of anarchy or confusion. Typically, this is characterized by different activities that trigger changes with respect to the conditions that support human existence.
In this poem, Yeats also envisions a spiritual transformation that differs considerably from the perceptions that had been assumed by the then Christians. At the time of its setting, it is certain that the experiences and changes that the then society had undergone prompted them to devise different meanings in an attempt to explain the origin and nature of experiences. The poet presumes that the society would undergo a transformation that is likely to take a significant period of time. According to him, the characteristic changes would take a considerable “twenty centuries of stony sleep”. Notably, this sleep would not be peaceful; rather it would be characterized by different changes.
Conclusion
Poetry is an important medium through which writers explore their skills and styles. Of great importance however are the themes that the authors seek to present to the audience. These are ingrained in the content and contain vital information about societal ideals as well as events. In his poems, Yeats succeeds in explicitly exploring the intricate themes of transformation and revolution. In addition, he underscores the implication of the characteristic events to the different facets of human life.
Works Cited
Donoghues, Denis. William Butler Yeats. USA: The Ecco Press, 1988.
Fletcher, Ian. WB Yeats and his Contemporaries. USA: St. Martins Press, 1987.
Gioia, Dana. An Introduction to Poetry. USA: Longman, 1998.
this paper provides a critical analysis of the theme of Death in Kitchen.
Running Head: Death
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Death
Introduction
Literature provides an ideal medium through which artists can not only present their thoughts but through which they can also explore their capacities by use of a wide range of styles. Themes are usually at the center stage of the respective literary work, an aspect that is imperative in the development of style too. While these comprise a critical aspect of literature, the major goal of writers is to present the message to the audience in an effective manner. In Kitchen, it is certain that Yoshimoto succeeds in incorporating these intricate factors in her work. She creatively uses Mikage to explore the theme of death, besides analyzing her character and underscoring what she represents in the society. Perhaps the most important aspect pertains to the employment of the first person narrative to evoke relevant response from the audience. It is against this background that this paper provides a critical analysis of the theme of Death in Kitchen. To enhance coherence, this is done in light of Mikage and seeks to analyze what she represents in the society.
Yoshimoto employs Mikage, a young girl, presumably not yet mature, as her protagonist in the novel. Notably, the girl experiences profound despair that can be attributed to the death of her last relative. She confesses “I couldn’t bear it. It oppressed me and I felt like I couldn’t breathe”. This is regardless of the fact that she had assumed cooking in a bit to confront the inherent desperation. The death of her grandmother, the death of Tanabe, was undoubtedly a sure source of extreme pain that was solidly ingrained in her life. This caused her immense suffering and can be used to explain why she perceived the world’s experiences to be overwhelming. “It” is a representation of her perception of the world and granted, she was unable to face the challenges that “it” presented. Arguably, she is a classic representation of the implications of death in the society. In this respect, it is certain death can be a constant source of pain and suffering especially when experienced at a tender age.
The relative pain that Mikage experience makes her appreciate the role of spirituality in her life. Essentially, it is certain that she is a representation of a pagan society, one that does not acknowledge the contribution of the higher power in human life. In this regard, death enabled Mikage to undertake deep questioning with respect to her existence. This is critical, or perhaps imperative, if she was to attain personal freedom. Notably, Yoshimoto cites her severally experiencing difficulty in accepting the influence of the higher power. Her religious confusion is exemplified when she states “I can’t believe in the gods” yet at the same time implores “gods- whether they existed or not, please let me live”. At this point, it can be ascertained that the protagonist lacks a credible religious stand. Again, this explains why she dwells in despair and takes eternity to overcome the pain. In this respect, it should be noted that religion is an instrumental social aspect and a proven source of solace in times of grief. Nonetheless, Mikage searches for answers to her fate and the meaning of the painful experiences from her friends and internal self. Although these provide temporary comfort, consolation and contentment, they do not offer lasting peace that is comparatively sustainable.
Death also makes Mikage lead a lonesome life and makes limited efforts to derive any form of help or solace from the society. Happiness in this regard is posited to be drawn from viable societal relations that provide comforting group environments within which one can find consolation. It is certain that the loss of her relative and guardian had profound effects on her welfare. Seemingly, she drifted in her own world, a world where she did not care to envy the crowds that other women were accustomed to, a world where she dared not think of joining them and a world where she was not interested in “happiness”.
This world was definitely inaccessible to other individual. It made her desire “continue living with the awareness that I will die”. This is irrespective of the fact that she knew this attitude had the capacity to make her despise her life. She perceives life with resentment, a clear indication that she was lonely and lacked sufficient company to help her overcome her grief. This is further perpetuated by her tendency to remain emotionally locked in “her world”. In this respect, Mikage is a model representation of an existential experience. Despite the overwhelming pain and suffering, she still looks forward to attaining joy. Of great reference is the fact that she lives her life honestly, without pretense or self deceit.
Through death and the resultant anguish and affliction that Mikage experiences, she is able to appreciate that the society has a great influence on the life of an individual. She states “we have so little choice…we live like the lowliest worms”. This implies that Mikage believed in premonitions and fate. These are influential and play a critical role in determining the nature of decisions that she makes. It is certain that they are embedded within the societal beliefs, practices and the entire value system. This contributes significantly to her state of desperation that undermines her quality of life by making it difficult for her to experience any form of happiness. Nonetheless, this acts as a wakeup call and later in the text; she acknowledges the importance of free will. This is however compounded by her believe that regardless of the fact that humans can consciously make their personal decisions, these are unconsciously influenced by universal forces such as fate. In this respect, Mikage is a typical illustration of the unending mutual relationship that exists between humans and the society.
Conclusion
From the preceding analysis, it is certain that literature provides an ideal medium through which writers and other artists can relay important messages to the audience. The inherent themes and styles are critical in development of plot and presentation of invaluable information to the audience. In her Kitchen, Yoshimoto employs Mikage as a protagonist and uses her to explore the theme of death. Mikage does not only represent the far reaching implications that death has on individual, but she also informs the reader about the nature of the society within which the story was set. As it has come out from the review, she is a pagan whose decisions are greatly influenced by the society. She indicates that compared to the society, an individual is insignificant and cannot exist on his or her own. Of great reference is her existential experience that enables her to deal with pain, suffering and desperation hopefully.