Gender Equality and Islam Essay

Islam accepts that a lady isn't just liable to man rather she has her own different and complete element in all regards. She has an equivalent right to that of a man to sustain her religions resources, serve her confidence, procure instruction, find a new line of work, work together, own something and advantage herself from it and demonstrate her innovativeness in an undertaking. She is ace of herself in all regards. The strict part of this reality is depicted in the Quran as under: â€Å"For muslim people, for accepting people; for sincere people; for people who show restraint, for people who humble themselves; for people who give charity’ for people who quick; for people who watch their celibacy, and for people who recollect Allah much-for them all has God arranged pardoning and an incredible reward† (Al †Ahzab 33, section 55) The attributes referenced in the above Quranic Verse are ten in number. These qualities spread all parts of Islam, Islamic lead and behavi orism identified with the privileges of God and of people as well. The above refrain clarifies that there is no qualification between a man and a lady as far as loves of God, compliance to Him and the spot in the eternal life. Actually there is no qualification based on sexual orientation. The Quran has set out the accompanying guideline regarding securing of riches â€Å"For men is a segment of what they win and for ladies is a part of what they acquire â€Å"(Al-Nisa 4, Verse32) The Sura â€Å"Al-Nisa† essentially manages matters identifying with cash and different issues that develop out of the relationship of man and lady in various limits in a family; Immediately after the above cited refrain an article from the law of heritage has been depicted and next comes the directions about the common contacts of a spouse and a wife. Thus the setting clarifies that the previously mentioned stanza is identified with the common life and that a lady has equivalent rights to that of a man like getting instruction, doing work or a business, arrangement of a property and even build up her character. There are a few other Quranic sections which clarify that there is no differentiation among man and a lady on any grounds aside from in the direction of an obligation (the detail would come in later pages). Both are people and both have rights and benefits. God says: â€Å"I will deny no man or lady among you the awards of their works. You are the posterity of one another† (Al-Imran 3: Verse: 195) Through Sura Al-Tawba, God has pronounced every single Muslim man and ladies as companions, partners and aides of one another. Subsequently ladies are, not the slightest bit second rate compared to men rather they are companions of men and are equivalent to them. (In any case, as far as duties there can be order, similar to a specialist and an instructor, under exceptional conditions): â€Å"The genuine adherents, the two people, are equivalent companions to one another. They charge what is simply and prohibit what is insidious; they take care of their supplications and pay the Zaka t and obey Allah and His Apostle. On these Allah will show benevolence. He is Mighty, Wise.†(Al-Tawba 9, verse71) This is the reason during the prophetic period ladies used to secure both strict and common training, do cultivating, partake in exchange and industry and deal with their riches and property; About Aisha, the spouse of the Holy Prophet, everybody realizes that she has related and affirmed 2210 Hadiths (Prophet’s truisms) (Sadarat-ul-Zahab: vol.1) The books dependent on the arrangements of the historical backdrop of the times of the partners of the Apostle uncover the accounts of incalculable females who had authority over various fields of the strict information rather a few prominent researchers achieved the information on Islam from them. It was a general work on during those days individuals used to look for direction from the spouses of the Apostle in the issues of religion. There were other than the spouses of the Apostle, certain other ladies too who earned notoriety in this field. Rabi-Bint-I-Mauz was one such celebrated r esearcher and the remarkable researchers of Islam like Abdullah-canister Abass and Abdullah Bin Umar had been her understudies. A few people have related certain Hadiths through her reference. These incorporate Salman Bin Yasir, Abad Bin walid and Nafei-Bin-Umar and so on. Fatima Bint-I-Qais had been the coach of the unmistakable researchers like Ibn-e-Maseeb, Urwa Bin Zubair and Shabi. (Al-Astaayab-fil-Asam-ul-Sahab) Ayesha the girl of Saad Bin Abi-Waqas was exceptional researcher and had instructed Imam Malik, Ayub Sakhtiami and Hakam Bin Ataiba. (Tazeeb-ul-tazeeb Vol. 12) Imam Shafi, the famous legal adviser took in the information on Hadith from the Syeda Nafisa, the excellent little girl of Hasan, the amazing child of the Apostle. (Wafyat-ul-Aayam-al-Ibn-khalkan Vol 2) Same was the situation of the common information and intelligence. For instance among the female colleagues of the Apostle a few were poetess like Khansa, Saudah, Safia, Atika, Muridya, Umm-I-Aiman and a few others. In the field of medication and medical procedure, Rafaza Aslamia, Umm-I-Mutea, umm-I-Kabsa, Hamne Bint-I-Jahsh, Ummi-I-Athiya, Ummai Saleem and a few other ladies won notoriety. (Tabqat-Ibne -Saeed, Asaba) It was a typical practice among ladies to get common information during those days. On the off chance that their number isn't momentous, it was because of absence of assets. Some common ladies realized how to peruse and compose and even could oversee little records. (Tabqat Ibn-e-Saad Vol-8). Some composed and answer letters. (Al-Adab-ul Musfi) During those days the ladies used to do cultivating and took care of their fields. In Bokhari (the assortment of Hadith) Sahl Bin Sasd relates the tale of a female buddy of the Apostle who claimed fields and gardens. She developed a vegetable named â€Å"Salq† close to the bank of a stream and used to serve Sahl Bin Saad and others with Salq and Maize when they visited each Friday. (Bokhari) The most validated books on Hadith like Bokhari, Muslim, Abu-Daud and Ibni Mauja quote the announcement of Jabir Bin Abdullah who describes about her maternal auntie. She was separated and was experiencing Iddat (the three months holding up period after separation during which a lady can’t wed). She wanted to sell out the product of her nursery for her living. She counseled the Apostle who exhorted her to do as s uch as all things considered she would have the option to give good cause and accomplish something for her recovery. This clarifies the ladies, during the prophetic perod used to do cultivating and exchange. As indicated by Bokhari, Asma, the little girl of Abu Bakar, the principal devout Caliph and the spouse of Zubair used to help her better half in cultivating on the fields just about two miles a long way from her home. Those days the ladies could unreservedly participate in the exchange and business exercises. The most decent lady in Muslim Ummah Khadija was a broker. Numerous female allies of the Apostle like Khaula. Al-khamia, Saqafia and Bint-I-Mukarrama used to exchange fragrance. (Asaba-Fi-Tameez-ul-Sahaba Vol-4) Several occasion related in ‘Tabqat Ibn-I-Saad’ show the reality muslim ladies during the Prophetic time frame used to participate in agribusiness, exchange and industry even without the help of their spouses. The spouse of Abdullah Bin Masud was a decent craftswoman. When she told the Apostle that she was proficient in various specialties and sold out her readied merchandise. She asked on the off chance that she could spend her cash on her better half and youngsters as they have no other wellspring of pay. The Apostle disclosed to her that she would get an award from God in the event that she did that. It is additionally cited in Al-Asaba Fil Tameez-al Sahabe Vol4) Once a lady named Khaula Bint-e-Saalba had a question with her significant other. Them two introduced their case before the Apostle who exhorted the spouse to get himself far from her until the disclosure of a guidance from God. At this Khula told the Prophet of God that her significant other would’t have the option to make due all things considered as he was needy upon her for his living. A lady named Qaila told the Apostle that she was a broker and looked for his direction in the exchange matters. Another lady, Amira portrays that once she went to the market alongside her house cleaner worker and purchased a fish. Ali, the fourth Caliph of Islam was likewise there who purchased that fish from her. There are numerous such occurrences related in ‘Tabqat Ibn-I-Saad Vol 8. The most bona fide book regarding this ma tter. Souda, the Prophet’s spouse was capable in the specialty of tanning. It is cited in Bukhari that once her sheep kicked the bucket, she put its skin off, got it tanned and mellowed it with dates. During that period ladies played out a few assignments by and large too. The Bokhari kitab-ul-istehsan unfurls that once numerous ladies visited the Apostle and mentioned him to designate one day in seven days for their strict preparing. The Prophet along these lines acknowledged their solicitation. Asma Bint-I-Zahid was acceptable at talk. When ladies assigned her their delegate and sent to the Apostle to make a few inquiries (Al-istaab Fi-Al-Sahab) Women were endowed with certain capable situations also and they demonstrated their value. For instance Umar, the second Caliph of Islam selected Shafa Bint-e-Abdullah as the Price control official.

Burkean Parlor Definition and Examples

Burkean Parlor Definition and Examples The Burkean parlor is aâ metaphorâ introduced by rationalist and rhetorician Kenneth Burke (1897-1993) for the ceaseless discussion that is going on at the point in history when we are conceived (see underneath). Many composing places utilize the allegory of the Burkean parlor to describe collective endeavors to help understudies improve their composition and as well as view their work as far as a bigger discussion. In a persuasive article in The Writing Center Journal (1991), Andrea Lunsford contended that composing focuses displayed on the Burkean parlor represent a danger just as a test to the norm in advanced education, and she urged composing focus chiefs to grasp that challenge. The Burkean Parlor is likewise the name of a conversation area in the print diary Rhetoric Review. Burkes Metaphor for the Unending Conversation Envision that you enter a parlor. You arrive behind schedule. At the point when you show up, others have since quite a while ago went before you, and they are occupied with a warmed conversation, a conversation unreasonably warmed for them to delay and outline for you precisely what it is. Truth be told, the conversation had just started some time before any of them arrived so nobody present is able to backtrack for all of you the means that had gone previously. You tune in for some time until you conclude that you have gotten the tenor of the contention; at that point you put in your paddle. Somebody answers; you answer him; another goes to your guard; another adjusts himself against you, to either the shame or delight of your adversary, contingent on the nature of your allys help. Be that as it may, the conversation is relentless. The hour develops late, you should withdraw. Also, you do withdraw, with the conversation still overwhelmingly in progress. (Kenneth Burke, The Philoso phy of Literary Form: Studies in Symbolic Action third ed. 1941. Univ. of California Press, 1973) Subside Elbows Yogurt Model for a Reimagined Composition Course A course would never again be where everybody begins on a boat together and shows up at port simultaneously; not a journey where everybody begins the principal day with no ocean legs and everybody is attempting at the same time to become acculturated to the waves. It would be progressively similar to the Burkean parloror a composing place or studiowhere individuals meet up in gatherings and work together. Some have just been there quite a while working and talking together when new ones show up. New ones gain from playing the game with the more experienced players. Some leave before others. . . .A skill based, yogurt structure makes increasingly impetus for understudies to contribute themselves and give their own steam to learninglearning from their own endeavors and from criticism from educators and friends. For the sooner they learn, the sooner they are to get credit and leave. . . .Given this structure, I speculate that a huge division of gifted understudies will, truth be told, r emain for longer than they need to when they see they are learning things that will assist them with other coursesand see that they appreciate it. It will frequently be their littlest and most human class, the just one with a feeling of network like a Burkean parlor.  (Peter Elbow, Everyone Can Write: Essays Toward a Hopeful Theory of Writing and Teaching. Oxford Univ. Press, 2000) Kairos and the Rhetorical Place [W]ithin an expository spot, kairos isn't only a question of explanatory discernment or willing office: it can't be seen separated from the physical elements of the spot accommodating it. Moreover, a logical spot isn't simply a question of area or address: it must contain some kairotic account in media res, from which talk or expository activity can develop. Comprehended all things considered, the expository spot speaks to a spot bound fleeting room which may go before our entering, may proceed past our leaving, into which we may even stagger unconscious: envision a genuine Burkean parlorphysicallyand you will have envisioned one case of an explanatory spot as I have attempted to build it.​ (Jerry Blitefield, Kairos and the Rhetorical Place. Affirming Rhetoric: Selected Papers From the 2000 Rhetoric Society of America Conference, ed. by Frederick J. Antczak, Cinda Coggins, and Geoffrey D. Klinger. Lawrence Erlbaum, 2002) The Faculty Job Interview as the Burkean Parlor As the up-and-comer, you need to envision the meeting as a Burkean parlor. As such, you need to move toward the meeting as a discussion in which you and the questioners make a communitarian comprehension of the expert relationship that may result from the meeting. You need to stroll in arranged to have a savvy discussion, not set up to give a proposition defense.​ (Dawn Marie Formo and Cheryl Reed, Job Search in Academe: Strategic Rhetorics for Faculty Job Candidates. Pointer, 1999)

Admitted Updates

Admitted Updates A few quick notes for the Class of 2010 The deadline for registering for Campus Preview Weekend is tomorrow (Tuesday). I really hope you can make it! CPW registration is available from your MyMIT portal, in the red CPW box on the left side. Also, tonight MIT students will be calling as many admitted students as possible. Well start with east coast students around 5pm Eastern time, and working our way west until around 11pm (EST). Start thinking of questions you might have for actual MIT students! And, dont worry, if for whatever reason you dont get to talk to an MIT student tonight, there are plenty of other opportunities to do so. Dont forget about this weeks admitted students parties (also listed on your MyMIT site). New parties have been added since last weeks entry (including Washington, DC). If you went to one of the admitted students parties, send your pictures and reviews to me; I hope to post some here. Finally, if you have not yet completed your financial aid materials, please do so as soon as possible. If you have questions, please email Financial Aid at finaid (at) mit (dot) edu.

Writing News Public Lending Rights is Being Transferred to the British Library

Public Lending Rights, or PLR, is an interesting initiative which allows authors to receive regular payments according to PLR legislation for every occasion when their books are loaned by public libraries. The fact that it is being transferred to the British Library can hardly be called news – after all, it has been announced by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) in March that the PLR will no longer exist as an independent organization and will become part of the British Library. However, the very act of transfer was completed only on 1 October 2013. What does it entail for those who have already contributed their books to PLR? Actually, not that much. The team that worked on PLR remains intact and was transferred to the British Library along with the initiative. In future it will most likely work in about the same fashion as before. Payments will still be made annually, on the basis of loans data received from the British public libraries. The reason for the transfer is pretty simple – DCMS decided to reduce the number of publicly funded organizations and transferred the Registrar of Public Lending Right to another publicly funded body. This will, in the long run, allow them to save on PLR’s maintenance and improve its functioning. In fact, there will not even be any noticeable change in management – all the operations of the PLR will be still administered from the current PLR offices in Stockton-on-Tees. The same goes for payments – they will be done in the same way as always. The next Irish and UK PLR Statements will be posted in November 2013 and January 2014 correspondingly. If you have contributed to a book which is currently lent out by public libraries in the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland, it is probably a good idea to register for the PLR scheme. If you have already applied for it, you don’t have to do anything – all the current registrations will remain unchanged and the changes in management won’t affect those who receive payments according to the PLR policies. The staff encourages both the current and potential participants of the PLR scheme to address all their queries to the same office: 1st Floor, Richard House, Sorbonne Close, Stockton-on-Tees TS17 6DA. The only change will be in e-mail and website addresses of the scheme.

EMU SGP Rules

Sample details Pages: 19 Words: 5730 Downloads: 8 Date added: 2017/06/26 Category Statistics Essay Did you like this example? To what extent is the EMU hampered by inflexible SGP rules 1.0 Introduction: The Stability and Growth Pact (SGP) The Stability and Growth Pact is designed to ensure sound public finances and acts as a pre-requisite in achieving long term economic growth. This economic growth can only be achieved through sound monetary and fiscal policies. The policies may come in the form of controlled government expenditures, price stability, optimal interest rates, exchange rates determination, manageable inflation rates and sustainable unemployment figures in the overall economy. Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "EMU SGP Rules | Economics Dissertations" essay for you Create order The UKs HM Treasury (2004), in its working paper, defines SGP as an important step in ensuring sustainable public finances to prevent high-debt countries from continuing to run high deficits and debt that could adversely affect all the members in the monetary union. Deficits come when an institution, like the government, exceeds its expenditure targets beyond its budgetary limits or when revenue generated is lower than the expenses incurred. Such macroeconomic disturbances can only be controlled by appropriate reforms and by taking corrective measures. However, when we are faced with a situation whereby monetary situation in one country greatly influences the macroeconomic situation in another country or a group of countries, as in the Economic and Monetary Union (EMU), it becomes a matter of concern. In the euro area, for example, the treaty explicitly states that European Central Banks (ECB) should take corrective measures to bail out member states. This intervention can only come by creating credibility in the monetary union and by introducing additional safeguards to bolster sustainability and minimise the risk of spill overs. To prevent such cross-country spill over of such disturbances, The SGP represents a significant step forward to recognise the importance of long term budgetary discipline. 1.1 SGP In Detail Adopted in 1997, the Stability and Growth Model aims at providing concrete answers to concerns relating to budgetary discipline in the Economic and Monetary Union (EMU). The SGP provides treaty provision son fiscal discipline in EMU foreseen by articles 99 and 104. It came into complete force when the Euro as a common currency was launched. At the time of its formation the primary concern of SGP was to safeguard government finances as a means to strengthen the conditions for price stability and sustainable growth prospects to create employment opportunities. In the Economic and Monetary Union, policy co-ordination and economic governance more generally is founded on the principle of an inter-governmental approach. For example, The Treaty and SGP provides for Excessive Deficit Procedure (EDP) which may be initiated if the government deficit exceeds the stipulated 3 present of the GDP or the government gross deficit exceeds 60 percent of the GDP. However, it also states that government deficit is not excessive if the excess over the 3 percent is exceptional and temporary and the deficit remains close to the reference value. In addition to the EDP, Articles 6 (2) and 10 (2) of the council regulations 1466/77 states that in the event that the council identifies significant divergence of the budgetary positions from the medium-term budgetary objectives, or the adjustment path towards it, it shall, with a view to giving early warning in order to prevent the occurrence of an excessive deficit, address, in accordance with Article103 (4) a recommendation to the member states concerned to take the necessary adjustment measures. Since the EMU comprises a number of nations, policy co-ordination is intrinsically more complex because of the need for co-ordination and information sharing among various fiscal authorities as well as the effective co-ordination between the fiscal and monetary authorities. The SGP, for these purposes, provides for an effective mechanism and surveillance process that enables the various fiscal authorities access to information with regard to fiscal plans in the euro area countries. This surveillance is necessary as it provides an early warning should the risk of a member state having unwarranted deficits. Some notable and important Articles and Regulations under the EMU treaty and SGP: Article 98 (ex Article 102a) Member States shall conduct their economic policies with a view to contributing to the achievement of the objectives of the Community. The Member States and the Community shall act in accordance with the principle of an open market economy with free competition, favouring an efficient allocation of resources, and in compliance with the principles set. Article 99 (ex Article 103) Member States shall regard their economic policies as a matter of common concern and shall coordinate them within the Council, in accordance with the provisions of Article98. The Council shall, acting by a qualified majority on a recommendation from the Commission, formulate a draft for the broad guide-lines of the economic policies of the Member States and of the Community, and shall report its findings to the European Council. Article 100 (ex Article 103a) Without prejudice to any other procedures provided for in this Treaty, the Council may, acting unanimously on a proposal from the Commission, decide upon the measures appropriate to the economic situation, in particular if severe difficulties arise in the supply of certain products. Where a Member State is in difficulties or is seriously threatened with severe difficulties caused by exceptional occurrences beyond its control, the Council may, acting unanimously on a proposal from the Commission, grant, under certain conditions, Community financial assistance to the Member State concerned. Article 102 (ex Article 104a) Any measure, not based on prudential considerations, establishing privileged access by Community institutions or bodies, central governments, regional, local or other public authorities, other bodies governed by public law, or public undertakings of Member States to financial institutions, shall be prohibited. Article 103 (ex Article 104b) The Community shall not be liable for or assume the commitments of central governments, regional, local or other public authorities, other bodies governed by public law, or public undertakings of any Member State, without prejudice to mutual financial guarantees for the joint execution of a specific project. A Member State shall not be liable for or assume the commitments of central governments, regional, local or other public authorities, other bodies governed by public law, or public undertakings of another Member State, without prejudice to mutual financial guarantees for the joint execution of a specific project. Article 104 (ex Article 104c) Member States shall avoid excessive government deficits. The Commission shall monitor the development of the budgetary situation and of the stock of government debt in the Member States with a view to identifying gross errors. In particular it shall examine compliance with budgetary discipline on the basis of the following two criteria:(a) whether the ratio of the planned or actual government deficit to gross domestic product exceeds a reference value and (b) whether the ratio of government debt to gross domestic product exceeds a reference value, unless the ratio is sufficiently diminishing and approaching the reference value at a satisfactory pace. The reference values are specified in the Protocol on the excessive deficit procedure annexed to this Treaty. These articles provides for an effective mechanism to correct and influence fiscal policy measures in the region. The EU in the last 5years has seen major changes in its structure. SGP has come with some drawbacks over its applicability since its birth. For instance, the EDP which is instrumental important component of the SGP was breached by Germany and France in late 2003 when these countries found themselves in a protracted phase of low growth. Based on these Articles, the following chapters shall assess the applicability of SGP in an expanded Europe. In the next chapter I have looked at some current trends in European economies since the expansion in May 2004. 2.0 Current Estimates and Trends. The current trends in the euro-area show those government deficits have significantly reduced. The European Commission The Public Finance in EMU 2005 suggests that after almost 3 consecutive years of deteriorating government finances, the euro-area general government deficit improved marginally in 2004 to 2.7 per cent of GDP from 2.8 per cent of GDP in 2003. The nominal deficit of the EU fell from 2.9 per cent of GDP in 2003 to 2.6 per cent of the GDP in 2004. It is also forecasted that the overall outlook on EU wide government spending will remain stable and sustainable this year. It must also he highlighted that in the year 2004, only 3 Euro-area countries and six EU countries had managed to achieve budget positions in balance or in surplus, both in nominal and cyclically-adjusted terms. In contrast to this, Euro-area countries such as Germany, France, Greece, Italy and seven non-euro-area countries UK, Cyprus, Hungary, Malta, Poland, Czech Republic and Slovakia deficits reached or breached the 3 per cent of GDP reference value in 2004. Predictions also suggest that in the euro-area, the debt to GDP to increase this year. After having stood at 70.8 per cent in 2003 and 71.3 per cent in 2004, the debt-GDP ratio is predicted to hover around 71.9 per cent this year. Whereas, in the EU, the debt-GDP ratio will remain as high as 64.2 per cent this year with Belgium, Italy and Greece accounting for most of the budgetary imbalance. The paper also shows that there was widespread difference among member states outside of the euro area. For instance, In Malta, the nominal budget balance in the year 2004 was at 5.2 per cent of the GDPas compared to 2.8 per cent of the GDP in Denmark. The Commissions Spring Report 2005 also shows that the budgetary situation remained week in Italy and Portugal in the year 2004 as the budgetary deficits reached 3.0 per cent and 2.9 per cent of the GDP respectively. The Commissions Spring Report 2005 suggested that the economic performance in the euro area would show robust growth in the year 2005 and 2006. Estimates showed economic growth in the euro-area to hover around 1.6 per cent in the year 2005 and 2.1 per cent (increase) in 2006.It would be interesting to look at the predictions and situation since year 2001 in the budgetary positions in euro-areas and the budget balance in select 15 EU member states since 2003. The tables below looks at the government budgetary positions in certain European countries: 2.1 Budget Balance in 15 select EU member states If we observe the budget balance of each of these selected EU countries, both original and new members, most countries are likely to have budget deficit this year. It is predicted that countries such as Italy, Greece and France will breach the 3 per cent reference mark for the current year. The UK, quite interesting, is likely to hover around the 2.7 per cent mark lower than last year and within the permissible 3 per cent level. Although most EU nations are expected to cut budget deficit, countries such as Table I: Budget Balance in 15 EU Members States, 2003 2006 (% of GDP). Budget Balance Cyclically Adjusted Budget Balance 2003 2004 2005 2006 2003 2004 2005 2006 Germany -3.8 -3.7 -3.3 -2.8 -3.2 -3.3 -2.8 -2.3 Greece -5.2 -6.1 -4.5 -4.4 -5.7 -7.1 -5.5 -5.3 Spain 0.3 -0.3 0.0 0.1 0.2 -0.3 0.0 0.2 France -4.2 -3.7 -3.0 -3.4 -4.0 -3.6 -2.8 -3.1 Italy -2.9 -3.0 -3.6 -4.6 -2.6 -2.4 -2.9 -4.0 Hungary -6.2 -4.5 -3.9 -4.1 Denmark 1.2 2.8 2.1 2.2 2.0 3.4 2.5 2.4 Poland -4.5 -4.8 -4.4 -3.8 Finland 2.5 2.1 1.7 1.6 3.2 2.4 1.9 1.8 Sweden 0.2 1.4 0.8 0.8 1.3 1.7 0.8 0.7 UK -3.4 -3.2 -3.0 -2.7 -3.0 -3.0 -2.9 -2.6 Austria -1.1 -1.3 -2.0 -1.7 -0.8 -1.1 -1.9 1.8 Latvia -1.5 -0.8 -1.6 -1.5 Of the countries listed, Italy, Hungary and France will actually see an increase in their budget deficit. If we look at all 25 nations EU, we will get better picture of the budget balance in the region. The chart below shows the budget balance of all 25 EU nations. The graphical representation of the EU, as a whole, shows that most nations except Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Spain and Sweden are likely to have a negative budget balance for this year. Of the 25, only 8 nations are expected to breach the 3 per cent permissible level. 2.2 Euro Area Government Budgetary Levels Table II shows us the Government Budgetary level in the euro-area. The actual balance which is the difference between the total revenue earned and total expenditure incurred is negative for the euro-area and the cyclically adjusted balance since 2001 appears to be below the 3 per cent reference mark. We can understand from the figures provided that governments the euro-area has managed to control budgetary deficits within the stipulated and permissible level. Therefore, it would be imperative to conclude that euro nations have been able to sustain deficits despite countries such as Italy and France breaching the reference mark since 2003. Table II: Government Budgetary Positions Euro-Area, 2001-2006 (% of GDP). 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 Total Revenue (1) 46.5 46.1 46.3 45.7 45.6 45.4 Total Expenditure (2) 48.3 48.6 49.1 48.5 48.2 48.0 Actual Balance (3) = (1) (2) -1.7 -2.4 -2.8 -2.7 -2.6 -2.7 Interest (4) 4.0 3.7 3.5 3.3 3.3 3.3 Primary Balance (5) = (3) + (4) 2.2 1.2 0.6 0.6 0.6 0.6 Cyclically Adjusted Balance (6) -2.4 -2.6 -2.4 -2.4 -2.1 -2.2 Cyclically Adjusted Primary Balance = (6) + (4) 1.6 1.0 1.0 0.9 1.1 1.0 Change in Actual Balance -1.9 -0.7 -0.4 0.1 0.1 -0.1 Due to Cycle -0.1 -0.5 -0.6 0.1 -0.1 0.0 Interest 0.1 0.3 0.2 0.2 0.0 0.0 Cyclically Adjusted Primary Balance -0.7 -0.5 0.0 -0.1 0.2 -0.1 2.3 Government Debt Ratio in the EU member states. The objective of this section is to look at the Debt Ratio of the EU member states. I shall also look at the debt ratios of the new 10 EU states since their inclusion in the union. This is being done to assess whether or not these nations have benefited by the inclusion and if they have, to what extent they have benefited. It can be observed that since joining the EU, most of the 10 new nations have had significant reductions in their respective budgetary constraints. I have dissected the data for the 10 EU new nations separately in the sub-topic. In countries such as Malta, the debt-FD Pratio has remained as high as 77.1 per cent which is significantly high. The Gross Debt has in fact increased in Poland. Keeping in mind these figures, the next table extracted from EU website looks at the debt-GDP ratio since 2003. However in most new EU new members will see a decline in its gross debt. I shall also show the share of the 10 new EU states contribution in the overall EU debts. Careful consideration of the table shows that 12 EU states have been successful in curbing its debt with Cyprus accounting for the largest drop (5.3 per cent) in gross debt followed by Spain with 4.7 per cent. Portugal, on the other hand, has seen an increase of 6.6 per cent in gross debt in the period shown in the table. The overall EU debt as a percentage of GDP stands at 63.8 per cent in 2004, 64.1 per cent in 2005 and a predicted 64.2 per cent this year. Table III. EU Debt-GDP Ratio, 2003 2006 Gross Debt Changes in Gross Debt 2004-2006 2003 2004 2005 2006 Belgium 100 95.6 94.9 91.7 -3.9 Germany 64.2 66.0 68.0 68.9 2.9 Greece 109.3 110.5 110.5 108.9 -1.6 Spain 51.4 48.9 46.5 44.2 -4.7 France 63.9 65.6 66.2 67.1 1.5 Ireland 32.0 29.9 29.8 29.6 -0.3 Italy 106.3 105.8 105.6 106.3 0.5 Luxembourg 7.1 7.5 7.8 7.9 0.4 Netherlands 54.3 55.7 57.6 57.9 2.2 Austria 65.4 65.2 64.4 64.1 -1.0 Portugal 60.1 61.9 66.2 68.5 6.6 Finland 45.3 45.1 44.3 43.7 -1.4 Czech Rep 38.3 37.4 36.4 37.0 -0.4 Denmark 44.7 42.7 40.5 38.2 -4.4 Estonia 5.3 4.9 4.3 4.0 -1.0 Cyprus 69.8 71.9 69.1 66.6 -5.3 Latvia 14.4 14.4 14.0 14.3 -0.1 Lithuania 21.4 19.7 21.2 20.9 1.2 Hungary 56.9 57.6 57.8 57.9 0.3 Malta 71.8 75.0 76.4 77.1 2.2 Poland 45.4 43.6 46.8 47.6 3.9 Slovenia 29.4 29.4 30.2 30.4 1.0 Slovakia 42.6 43.6 44.2 44.9 1.3 Sweden 52.0 51.2 50.3 49.2 -2.0 UK 39.7 41.6 41.9 42.5 0.9 The graphical representation next page of gross debt in the 10 new EU states, both before and after joining the EU, shows similar trends. All countries except Estonia and Cyprus show a drop in debts since joining EU. If we analyse the reference mark for each of these countries, we can observe that Malta, for instance, has not breached the 3 per cent mark despite having an increase in the debt-GDP ratio and the same can be said about Slovenia. Poland and Hungary is expected breach the 3 per cent reference mark and also to witness an increase in the gross debt. Czech Republic gives as a contrasting picture in that it is likely to breach the 3 per cent mark but will see a drop its debts. Chart me: Gross Debts of 10 new EU states before joining the European Union. We can see from the tables and charts that some economies depict contrasting predictions for the future in terms of debt ratios and deficits. Since all these nations are diversified in terms of demography, industry and macroeconomic situation, we must analyse the relationship between certain macroeconomic indicators such as Interest Rates and Inflation. Looking at these current trends and the need to study the macroeconomic indicators, the next chapter seeks to explain the challenges faced by these 10 nations and what changes have been brought about in the treaty and the SGP. 3.0 Challenges to SGP reforms post-expansion of the EMU. Studies conducted by the EMU shows that income levels in the 10 new states are comparatively lower than the original 15 members. The challenges they face largely comes from macroeconomic policies and structural policies to foster strong and sustainable convergence. It requires fiscal policies that ensure that tax and expenditure policies are formulated in such a way that it encourages private sectors to invest. It should also provide for adequate infrastructure and education facilities. The EMU study highlights that strong fiscal policies can help preserve macroeconomic stability by offsetting fluctuations in the private sector and credible sustainability of public debts. We know for a fact that one of the main objectives of fiscal policies is to enable increase in income level, to sustain inflation rate and to create employment opportunities. The basic objective of this section is to analyse the difference in the EMU before and after its expansion. To analyse it, I shall make use of Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) method or rather a simple two variable regression function. But first, we shall look at the trends patterns in the lending rates of the ECB and Euro-zone unemployment rates. I have created separatecharts for pre and post-expansion of the European Unions. The reason for this separation is that despite new members not being part of the euro-area, there has been increased movement of labour from these countries to euro-area. Another reason for this separation is to see the impact of lending rates on employment on EU post expansion. The period under consideration starts from Jan-2000 till April 2004. Macroeconomic principles tell that interest rates are often used as an effective tool in creating employment opportunities. As interest rates goes down, investors / borrowers will find it more profitable to lend /borrow money to fund investment opportunities. This ideally should create more and more employment opportunities as production levels increase. It will also influence an increase in income which should in turn influence the increase in demand. The chart next page shows the trend pattern witnessed before the expansion of the European Union and in the euro-zone area. I shall also produce a simple econometric model to test the linear relationship between the two variables. We can observe that during the beginning of year 2000/01, the Euro-zone witnessed an increase in unemployment rates while the lending rates of the ECB showed consistent decline during the same period. The logic stated previously in the last page can be applied here. The decline in lending rates may have been to revive production, employment and investment opportunities in the region. However the results I have obtained seems to question the logic behind the argument as to how successful this fiscal measure has been able to tackle the unemployment issues in the euro-zone areas. Remarkably, there appears to be an inverse relationship between the interest rates and unemployment rates in the euro-zone area. I have plotted the positioning of the residuals from regression function line (slope), also known as the Goodness of Fit. Taking, ECB Lending Rates (VAR00001): Independent Variable (Y) Euro-Zone Unemployment Rates (VAR00002): Dependent Variable (X) Simple Regression Model: Y = + X + Y = 9.030 0.078X + (0.218) (0.049) R2 = 21.7 per cent. From the equation model, we can conclude that during the period 01/00 04/04, 1 per cent increase in the ECB lending rates brought 0.07 per cent decrease in unemployment rate within the euro-zone at 5 per cent significance level. This is remarkable considering the fact that in an ideal situation an increase in interest rates should bring macroeconomic disturbances such as increase in unemployment or a drop in production level. Looking at the trend pattern shown in the graph, we can observe the different directions in which the curves move. The R2 i.e. Co efficient of Determination which shows the explanatory power of the independent variable is quite low at just 21.7 per cent. We can, therefore, assume that factors not including the interest rates had proven to be significant in influencing the unemployment rate in the zone during that particular period. In the next model, I shall look at how unemployment rates have changed since the expansion of the EMU. Since its expansion, we have observed widespread movement of labour from many of the east and central European economies into western European economies. Variables, as in the other model, shall remain the same except the time period. I have20 observations starting -04/2004 12/2005 (EU expansion). Ya = + Xa + Ya = 12.742 1.305Xa + (2.095) (0.695) R2 = 40.5 per cent. The values obtained in this figures largely appears to be similar(relationship) to those obtained in the previous model. There still appears to be an inverse relationship between the two variables suggesting that interest rates by the ECB did not play a significantrole in correcting unemployment problem within the expanded EU. There has been considerable influx of people from the Baltic and Central European region into countries such as Italy, Spain, and France. At 5percent significance, an increase of 1 per cent in lending rates by theca brings a 1.305 per cent decline in unemployment rate. Such linear relationship between the two is questionable if we were to go by macroeconomic principles. Similarly, if we look at the linear relationship between the Blending rates and unemployment in the Euro-zone for the same period(04/04 12/05) an increase of one per cent in ECBs lending rates brings about 1.558 per cent decline in the unemployment rate in the euro-zone area. Both the euro-area and the EU labour markets have been markedly less influenced by the recent economic downswings and upswings, compared to earlier cycles. In line with the usual lagged response of the labourmarket, around 1.4 million jobs were expected to be created in the euro area and 1.9 million in the EU. These figures should improve further this year 2006 as growth regains momentum. The euro-area unemployment rate is expected to diminish from 8.6% this year to 8.1% in 2007. Forth EU, the profile is similar, from a higher starting point of 8.7%this year to 8.1% in 2007. Let us now look at the trend pattern displayed by the CPI index in the European Union since the beginning of the year 2000. The CPI Index in the EU appears to show a steady pattern since early2000. The trend displayed by the curve does not show any significant surge or decline since the inclusion of the 10 new EU nations. However, we can witness a sudden drop in the index post January 2003. In the third econometric model, I shall produce a linear relationship between the ECBs interest rates and inflation rate in the euro-zone. As noted earlier, the primary objective of any fiscal policies is to control inflationary pressures. I shall consider Inflation rate to beindependent variable (By) and interest rates to be the dependent variable (Xbox). The period under consideration starts from May 2004since the expansion of the EU. By = + Xbox + By = 3.052 0.018Xb + (0.154) (0.068) From the regression model obtained we can observe that during the period after the expansion of the EU, the ECB had used interest rates as a corrective measure to control inflationary pressures. Though the explanatory power of the independent variable is low (6.1 %), at 5percent significance, one per cent increase in inflation rate prompted the ECB to slash interest rates by 0.018 per cent. There is an inverse relationship between the two variables and is in accordance to macroeconomic principles. Unemployment remains a major problem in the new member region and challenge to policy formation and implementation in many new member states. From the first two econometric models, the result suggests that interest rates are not effective mechanism to correct unemployment problem in the region. Unemployment policies have not brought any significant improvement in the region and it can only be corrected ban increase in production levels, increase in general income level and consequent raise in the aggregate demand. However, we must not ignore that Interest rates have fallen substantially over the recent years and have had positive impact on the inflation rates. It stands at 3.25percent as of December 2005. But what affect does such fiscal policies have on the individual economies within the union is the point of discussion in the essay. Weve seen that ECBs fiscal policies have limited role in checking macroeconomic disturbances in the region and in particular unemployment. We shall, therefore, now look at certain specific countries that seem to have benefited since the expansion. It is suggested that policy makers must make judgements and priorities on a case by case basis taking into account the differing economic and financial circumstances, restructuring public finance policies and even plans to adapt euro system.. Fiscal policies can contribute immensely in safeguarding stability at times of credit boom which most economies in the Baltic and central European region are experiencing. The disparities seen in the region can further be explained if we look at some trends in the Baltic and central European nations. One of the major challenges to the EMU would come from the credit booming private sector and is likely to rise sharply over the coming decade. We have seen that most booms are followed by a bust and in real terms pro-cyclical behaviour supporting the building up of large financial imbalances. The most concerning factors in the new member region are market imperfections, asymmetric flow of information, moral hazard which could influence the pro-cyclical behaviour of risks in the region. It often leads to misallocation of resources and credit, asset price bubbles, as witnessed during the East Asian crisis, and exposure of non-financial firms to un-hedged foreign currency borrowings. At macroeconomic level, these market imperfections can or could lead to deficits in the external current accounts. Another challenge to the EMUs policies comes from reversal in market sentiments which leads to reduction of capital inflows or even outflow triggered by either a specific event in the country itself, or by a sudden larger than expected rise in global interest rates. Diversity of the sectors within the national economy and that of Economy as a whole, another challenge comes from the fact interest rates fluctuations affect some sector more severely than some other. To tackle some of the issues with regard to debt ratio and deficits highlighted earlier, the EMU has introduced 2005 reforms to assist convergence of EU 10 nations (new members). We shall look at them in detail in the next section. 3.1 2005 Reforms and its consequences for new members. The agreement on the reform of the SGP adopted on the 22nd March2005 introduces more economic rationale and greater differentiation reflecting the increased economic heterogeneity in the enlarged European Union. Some essential and important reforms put forward are Country Specific Medium Term budgetary objectives: The reforms foresees that Medium Term budgetary objectives will be differentiated across countries according to their debt ratio and potential growth. The reforms specifies that new members participating in the ERM-II will have a medium term budget objectives between one per cent of GDP for countries with low debt and high potential growth and if they have not achieved low debt, they should pursue, as a benchmark, an annual adjustment of 6.5 per cent of GDP, net of one-off and other temporary measures. Deeper and more differentiated assessment of budgetary developments in the excessive deficit procedures: The new agreement specifies a setoff other relevant factors that should be taken into account when deciding on the existence of an excessive deficit. It shall consider under special circumstances a deficit of 3 per cent or higher as exceptional and temporary. Taking into account systemic pension reforms: The agreement stipulates in particular that an excess close to the deficit reference value which reflects the implementation of a pension reform introduces multi-pillar system that includes mandatory, fully-funded pillar, should be considered carefully. Consideration to the net impact on teed deficit of multi-pillar reforms will be given for the initial 5years after a member state has introduced a mandatory fully-funded system, or 5 years after 2004 for member states that have introduced such a reform before 2005, in a regressive way over five years. 3.2 SGP: Country Focus Portugal. Portugal is one country in the EU that is likely to have a severe deficit in its budget balance this year. It is likely to breach the 3percent reference mark by a big margin. The 2005 general government deficit was projected to reach almost 6 per cent of GDP after a deficit of 3 per cent of GDP in 2004. In the same year, 2005, both revenue and expenditure have increased as a share of GDP. However on the positive side, the tax revenues have been growing in excess of what the relevant tax base would indicate which suggest a further improvement in tax collection. Domestic demand in the economy is forecast to slow down over the current fiscal year and 2007. It is partly blamed for the cooling of private consumption. In 2005, both consumption and investment rates were dampened by a negative carry-over during the second half of 2005. However, due to no-policy change, it widely believed that macroeconomic situation in Portugal will improve in 2007. 3.3 SGP: Country Focus Estonia Estonia has been performing remarkably well since its inclusion in the EU. In fact, it is the only likely to have a positive budget balance and economic growth. It is unlikely to breach the reference mark of 3 per cent. The Estonian economy is expected to remain strong and showcase broad-based growth with annual rates well above 7 per cent and little or no significant cyclical variation. Investment atmosphere is likely toremain stronger fuelled by public infrastructure spending and smoothabsorption of EU transfer. The private corporate sector is expected toincrease its participation in investment largely due to expected tax exemptions for reinvested earnings by 2008. In the labour markets, however, wage pressures are mounting in certain sectors but the overall wage growth continues to be largely in line with the substantial productivity increase. In terms of sectors within the economy, service sector will see increase in income followed by tourism, transport, construction and public sector. From the brief outlook in these two countries, we can conclude that within the union itself since the expansion, there have been wide disparities in terms of economic growth and budgetary balance. It is, therefore, necessary for reforms to be introduced that takes into consideration the economic realities in these countries. One positive attributes of the SGP is that it allows for countries to breach the reference mark of 3 per cent if the breach can be sustained and corrected within reasonable time. 4.0 Conclusion, Problems and Opponents of the SGP It is often argued that the main reason for many of the SGP guidelines failure is largely due to inconsistent policy reforms which dissipate resource during economic upswings thus foregoing an improvement in the budgetary balance to cushion the effect of an eventual downturn. Timely reforms are essential to adapt to changes in the macroeconomic environment. Reforms can be as seen as the outcome of continuous effort to adapt market and public institutions to changing fundamentals: technological progress, evolving needs of individuals and the society, demography, etc. At times of economic slowdown, the risk of pro-cyclical fiscal policy is high and countries are known to adopt pro-cyclical policies that penalise investment spending since it can be restrained more easily or to large extent resort to one-off operations, securitisation of government assets, or creative accounting that would worsen the future prospects for sustainable fiscal policy. Reforms to the current state of SGP is essential because the Pact, as of now, pays too much attention to the deficit but overlooks the quality of public finance as well as the problem posed by the downturns. On the downside, there has been increased debate over the effectiveness of SGP in bringing out fiscal measures to correct macroeconomic disturbances. Some of these criticisms have been highlighted below 1) Though SGP provides more procedures to assist countries breaching the 3 per cent reference mark, it does not provide any corrective measures to tackle cases of a serious slowdown and mild recession. Members are in fact advised to take preventive measures and avoid profligate policies during upswings. 2) It is often criticised that while SGP has been unable to bring fiscal discipline and credibility of the governments commitments, thugs has focused more on short term deficits and rather less consideration is given to debt levels and long term fiscal challenges. 3) One criticism comes from the fact that some countries would be unable to use automatic stabilisation to operate fully within the constraint of the 3 % deficit reference value 4) The effectiveness of the SGP has been questioned due to its lack of appreciation for cyclical factors when economies experience upswing phase of the cycle. 5) Though it provides for increased access to a countrys fiscal positions, it lacks consistency in the treatment of countries and its economic rational. 6) Difficulties in policy co-ordination characterised by a single monetary authority with a number of decentralised fiscal authorities. The need for coordination and information sharing among the various fiscal authorities as well as effective co-ordination between the fiscal and monetary authorities needs more addressing and efficiencies. There still appears to be asymmetric flow of information between the fiscal and monetary authorities. 7) The Pact has also been criticised on the ground that it fails to take corrective measures before a problem sets in. The flexibility provided by the Treaty and the Pact is of ex-post nature and reduces the incentives for countries to implement fiscal reforms, encourages moral hazard behaviour and reduce credibility. 8) It is very common to manipulate economic forecast and is very often done to suppress true facts and figures. Over-optimisation of forecast is typical of governments with public budget problems. References and Bibliography 1) Public Finance in EMU 2005, European Commission, Directorate General for Economic and Financial Affairs. 2) Structural Reforms and Budgetary Objectives, Public Finance cinema 2005, European Commission, Directorate General for Economic and Financial Affairs. 3) Current Development and Prospects, Public Finance in EMU 2005,European Commission, Directorate General for Economic and Financial Affairs. 4) Fiscal Challenges during Convergence in the Recently Acceded Member States, Public Finance in EMU 2005, European Commission, Directorate General for Economic and Financial Affairs 5) Member States Development, Public Finance in EMU 2005, European Commission, Directorate General for Economic and Financial Affairs 6) Mathew B. Canzoni and Behead T. Diva, the Stability and Growth Pact Visited: A Delicate Balance or an Albatross, Georgetown University, 7) The Stability and Growth Pact: A Discussion Paper, HM Treasury, March 2004, 8) Antigo Verde, The Stability and Growth Pact In Rainy Days an Alternate View, Bank of Valletta Review, No. 30, Autumn 2004,

Religion in Brazil Free Essays

Brazil, or  officially the  Federative Republic of Brazil is the largest country in both  South America  and the  Latin America  region. It is the world’s fifth largest country, both bygeographical area  and  by population over 190 million people   It is the largest  Lusophone, or portugese-speaking,  country in the world, and the only one in the Americas. We will write a custom essay sample on Religion in Brazil or any similar topic only for you Order Now com/ways-religion-economics-influence-development-medieval-europe-japan/"Religion plays a major role in the lives of most of the people in this largest South American county. Here are some interesting Brazil facts: Around ninety percent of this population identifies with some sort of religion,   making it more religiously inclined than any other South American country. Only around 1% of its population do not believe in a God, or a supreme being in some form or another. The Brazilian Constitution of 1889 declared that there was no  official  religion in Brazil, so everyone was free to believe as they liked. That’s why, just like the USA, Brazil can practice freedom of religion according to the newest constitution that was adopted in 1988. Brazil’s religious make-up can be traced to the diverse groups of people who came in various forms – natives, invaders, immigrants, and slaves. In terms of Christian religions, the main churches in Brazil are: †¢ Catholic Protestant †¢ Methodist †¢ Episcopal †¢ Pentecostal †¢ Lutheran †¢ Baptist Its religious inclination is also extremely diverse, despite the fact that around three-quarters of the population claim to be Roman Catholics. In fact, there are more Catholics in Brazil than in any other country in the world. The Portuguese brought with them, not just the language (this  medical tourism  hub is the only  country  inSouth America  not dominated by Spanish), but also Roman Catholicism. Catholicism was introduced to Brazil when the European settlers arrived with the aim of ‘civilising’ the local native people. They built churches and brought religious leaders into the country to teach young and old alike the doctrines of Catholicism. During the 19th century, Catholicism was made the official religion of Brazil. This meant that Catholic priests were paid a salary by the government, including them in the political affairs of the country. As such, Catholicism became an integral part of the management and administration of Brazil and its people. Many of the Brazilian festivals are based on the Catholic religion. Protestantism is the second largest branch in Brazil religion. Those who are Christian but not Catholic are considered Protestant. Only about 15% of Brazilians claim to follow a Protestant faith of some kind. There are many branches of Christianity in Brazil. Among them the most popular are Baptist, Methodist, Neo-Pentecostalists, Old Pentecostalists, Presbyterian, Anglican and Episcopal Churches. Other Protestant beliefs and offshoots that make up smaller portions of â€Å"Christians† are Kardecist, Lutherans. The largest population of Protestants are found in North, Central-West and Southeast Brazil. The Church Of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints  is the third largest Brazil religion. They boast a membership of over one million one hundred thousand with almost two thousand congregations and 309 family history centers. Five temples are stretched across Brazil. Jehovah’s Witnesses  is the fourth largest religion in Brazil. They have over 700,000 members. Eastern Orthodox  makes up the fifth largest religion in the country with over 500,000 members that came over with their Armenian, Greek, Lebanese, Russian, Syrian and Ukrainian immigrants in the past one hundred years. When the Portuguese landed in Brazil, the  country  was populated by native  Indians who had their own traditional religious practices. In the regions just north of Bahia, indigenous tribes still practice the Catimbo religion; a sect that is heavily influenced by spirits, shamanism, and omens. When African slaves began to be imported into Brazil, they brought with them their religious practices, many of which involved invoking the gods through chants or dances. Over time, these Afro Brazilian religious practices began mingling with Catholic and Protestant influences to create synthetic religions. Some of the more  popular  exponents  include  Candomble, which has a huge following in urban centers like  Rio de Janeiro, and Umbanda. Spiritism is also one of the significant, although minor, religions in Brazil. Spiritistic practices are based largely on ancient Amerindian cultures as well as the influence of the African cultures and customs that were introduced centuries ago, when slaves were brought over to Brazil from the ‘Dark Continent’ of Africa. Such tribes and cultures were particularly inclined towards the worship of spirits since they had not been influenced by more structured notions of creation, which hailed from a reliance on the teachings of Bible. The religions or belief systems found in Brazil other than the ones above include: * Muslims * Methodists * Episcopalians * Buddhists * Ayahuasca * Afro-Brazilian religions – Xango, Batuque, Umbanda, Tambor de Mina * Hinduism * Islamists * Shinto believers * Judaists * Rastafarian * Brazil Religion Makes the Country Unique Every part of the country has been uniquely shaped by the religion practiced there. Celebrations, festivals, traditions, and customs are all practiced due to some religious or spiritual beginnings and purposes. For example, During the Holy Week before Easter, several Brazilian cities will celebrate Corpus Christi by artistically creating mosaics or carpets on the streets using mediums like flour, flower petals, shavings of wood, and coffee grounds. The results are stunning and a memorable way to celebrate this holy time of the year. The music, dancing, chanting, singing, or other activities all stem from one faith or another and make the people who they are. The entire culture of the Brazilian people is intertwined with religion or faith in some way. No wonder they’re such an amazing, diverse, and wonderful people! How to cite Religion in Brazil, Papers

Goods and Services in Economy Increases

Question: Discuss about the Goods and Services in Economy Increases. Answer: Introduction: Inflation rate is the rate at which the general price level of the goods and services in an economy increases, thereby reducing the purchasing power of the people of the country (Weale, et al., 2015). Central banks of the economy aim at reducing or maintaining the rate the inflation in order to maintain the stability of the economy. By maintaining the monetary policy goals generated by the central bank of the country, the severe rise in inflation rates can be controlled, thereby saving the country from its adverse effects. Analysis The Bank of Canada and the Department of Finance has decided to maintain the low inflation rate of the economy for more five years. The Department of Finance has stated that the Central Bank has maintained the inflation rate since 25 years and would continue maintaining this procedure fro the next 5 years of tenure. Hence, it could be stated that the reform of maintained inflation rate would be continue until the year 2021. As stated by the governor of the bank of Canada, the country has been able to maintain the average inflation rate of almost 2 percent every years since 1991. The country aims at maintaining the inflation rate thereby achieving a smooth and slow rise in the cost of living that could affect the standard of living in the country. Bank of Canada would now pay more had to the tree metrics of the country, which deals with CPI-trim, CPI-common and CPI-median. Through CPI-common the country would be able to analyse the price changes across the different categories and CPI trim is a short measure that helps in calculating the inflation rate for effects of outsiders that are distant from the sample. CPI median analyses the median price change in terms of CPI sub-component weights (Khan, Morel Sabourin , 2013). Low and controlled inflation helps in raising the employment rate of the economy, provides more real money in the hands of the consumers, and facilitates the growth of the economy. However, the impact of inflation on the economy recovery is not always accurate in nature (Armantier, et al., 2015). Graph 1 : Inflation Rate Of Canada For The Past 20 Years (Source : Data.worldbank.org. 2016) In graph 1, 20 years inflation rate of Canada has been analysed, and plotted in a graph. It has been noticed that the country has been able to maintain a low inflation rate in thereby allowing a stable growth of the economy. There have been fluctuations within this range, yet, the barrier to 2% rate of inflation has been maintained. Canada has measured inflation by the consumer price index. It is stated that the bank and the management of Canada has been less volatile during this span of 20 years. There has been some speculation regarding the slight rise in the inflation rate by the bank of Canada. The bank aims at continuing the research potential improvements within the economy by implementing various monetary frameworks in the years ahead , by considering the constraints that are faced by the bank. Maintenance of the low inflation rate in Canada has helped the citizens of the country in numerous ways. One of our friends, who wanted to take an educational loan for himself, has been quite efficient in generating the loan due to the low interest rates. Low inflation often sets a low interest rate for the public. Tension between self interest and social interest When inflation is low, there is a possibility of performing better business in order to be able to make long-range plans. Purchasing power of the economy increases as the raise is well maintained and the rate would not be eroded year after year. By looking over the maintained inflation target rate of the economy, businesses and individuals do not react over the short-term changes (Malmendier Nagel, 2016). It helps to maintain the productivity of the individuals and the firms, thereby promoting the economy as a whole. Reference Armantier, O., Bruine de Bruin, W., Topa, G., Klaauw, W., Zafar, B. (2015). Inflation expectations and behavior: Do survey respondents act on their beliefs?.International Economic Review,56(2), 505-536. Bank of Canada will stick to 2% inflation target with a twist. (2016). CBC News. Retrieved 21 November 2016, from https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/bank-of-canada-inflation-target-1.3818548 Data.worldbank.org (2016)..Inflation, consumer prices (annual %) | Data. Retrieved 21 November 2016, from https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/FP.CPI.TOTL.ZG?locations=CA Khan, M., Morel, L., Sabourin, P. (2013).The common component of CPI: An alternative measure of underlying inflation for Canada. Bank of Canada. Malmendier, U., Nagel, S. (2016). Learning from inflation experiences.The Quarterly Journal of Economics,131(1), 53-87. Weale, M., Blake, A., Christodoulakis, N., Meade, J. E., Vines, D. (2015).Macroeconomic Policy: inflation, wealth and the exchange rate(Vol. 8). Routledge.