Product life cycle and its stages Essay

In today’s world, where market is unpredictable, strategies play crucial role in defending a firm’s product position. â€Å"The main reason why companies must continually develop new products is because products have life cycle†, (Bittel, 1980). Just as operation managers must be prepared to develop new products, they must also be prepared to develop strategies for both new and existing products. First and foremost, before proceeding into the product life cycle strategies, lets define what a product life cycle is. According to Griffin and Ebert (2002), a product life cycle is a series of stages through which it passes during its profit -producing life. Depending on the product’s ability to attract and keep customers over time, a product life cycle may be a matter of months, years, or even decades. Anyway, there are four phases that every product undergoes in a market since it was produced and launched to its out-of market position. They are the introductor y, growth, maturity and decline phases. Below follows the figure of a product life cycle and all phases’ detailed descriptions shall be described later. Also, considerations must be given to how far the product is along the product life cycle. A new concept / product just entering the product life cycle may require intensive distribution to start with to launch it on to the market. As it becomes more established, perhaps the after sales-service will play a more important role which leads to a more selective distribution, with only those dealers that are able to offer the necessary standard of after sales-service being allowed to sell the product. In simpler words, in every phase of a product life cycle, a product should undergo different, suitable strategy in order to stay competitive in the ever changing market. Below follows the product life cycle stages along with their definitions and beneficial strategies†¦ Introductory Stage: According to Stevenson (1999), the introduction stage begins when a product  reaches the market place. When an item is first introduced, it may be treated with curiosity by the buyers. Demand is generally low as buyers are not yet familiar with that item. This often leads to the drop of the product’s price. Therefore, along with time, production and design improvements, many new products became more reliable, less costly, and also the increase in awareness in buyers lads to the increase in demand. Also, according to Griffin and Ebert (2002), during this stage, marketers focus on making their target markets aware of the products and their benefits. Also, during this stage, the particular product is represented with innovation (diffusion of innovative curve), product development (Ansoff Growth Matrix) and problem children (Boston Consulting Group). Among the common characteristics, according to Smith et al – 1997 are: – new products; – low sales; – low market share; – Specific type of customers willing to buy new products. During this phase, as compared to the other phases, profits are negative or low because of low sales and high distribution and promotional expenses. Promotional expenditures are high as the company is eager to inform customers’ about the product’s availability and get them to try it. Since the market is not ready for new products at this stage, the firm focuses on selling such items to those who are the readiest to buy. A company that wishes to be a market leader for its product must choose to launch a strategy that is consistent with the intended product positioning. The company, when deciding on which strategy to implement for the product’s long-term, life and will have to continuously formulate new pricing, promotion and other marketing strategies. Growth Stage: It is the second stage of product life cycle process. Only if the new product satisfies the market’s demand and need, it will enter this stage. According to Heizer and Render (2001), in the growth phase, product design has begun to stabilize, and effective forecasting of capacity requirements is necessary. Adding capacity or enhancing existing capacity to accommodate the increase in product demand may be necessary. Also, customers who have tried the product earlier may remain loyal. In the face of such opportunity, new competitors will start entering the market and they will introduce new product features and hence, expanding the market, leaving the product’s price constant or fall slightly. Here, a company, in order to stay competitive in the market, should keep on promoting its product. In addition, profits start to increase. The firm has several strategies to stay in the rapid growing market as long as possible. Also, the firm improves the product quality, adds more distribution channels, changing the advertising theme – from promoting the product to the market to reminding the market on the availability of the product as well as to increase awareness. The firm also lowers the price in order to attract more buyers. During this stage, usually firms that have successfully passed their product’s introduction stage have high market share and are highly profitable. On the whole, as said by Smith et al – 1997, this phase is represented by: – sales and profits growth; – more widespread usage; – development of the market; – high market share; – Increasing competition. Maturity Stage: The third stage for a product to go. As stated by Pride et al, (1988), sales are still increasing at the beginning of the maturity stage, but the rate of increase has slowed. Later in this stage, the sales curve peaks and begins to decline. Many products maturity stages lasted longer than the previous stages. Industry profits decline throughout this stage. During this stage, sales growth starts to slow down. Hence, the firm as well as its market competitors starts lowering down their prices, increases advertising and sales promotions. Also, the intense market led weaker competitors to quit. Only those strong enough will be able to precede the competition. A company should consider a different strategy when its product cines ti maturity, either by redesigning the market or its product. Modifying market is when the company tries to increase consumption if the current product. The currently matured product can also be redesigned its package or style. It is an effective way of strengthening a firm’s market share. Consumers may also be encouraged to use the product more often or in new ways. Pricing strategies are flexible during this stage, such as markdowns pr price incentives. Marketers may offer incentives and services to declare offering such matured products, especially from competitors. Sales promotions and aggressive personal selling can e effective during this period, when competition may require large promotional expenditures. On the whole, just as adopted from Smith et al (1997), this phase is represented by: – market maturity and a slow-down in sales growth’ – conversion of late majority of customers, and – trying to increase market penetration and share. Decline Stage: The final stage of the product life cycle. According to Lancaster and Jobber (1994), it is when sales begin to fall and already slim profit margins are depressed even further. Customers have begun to become bored with the product and are looking forward to newer, latest products. Dealers begin to de-stock the product in anticipation of reduced sales. Here, sales and profits sank lower, due to various reasons such as advancement in technology, shifts in consumer tastes or intense competitions. Such factors have forced many companies to quit the market and for the other remaining companies, they may have to redesign their strategies to stay longer in the market by raising the price to cover cists, re price to maintain market share, or lower the price to reduce inventory. The firm can also cut down or tighten the product’s advertising and promotional budget so it will be easier for the company to lower down the price. In addition, the company can also â€Å"downsize† its market and focuses on smaller segment as well as their trade channels. In other words, distribution of the declining product will be narrowed to te most profitable existing market. Also, the product will not be highly promoted, although advertising and promotions may be used to slow down the decline. Instead, the firm may even decide to drop the product entirely at the end. Just like the above three phases, this stage is also represented by: – declining sales and profits; – rationalism in the marketplace through mergers, acquisitions and take-over; – some products will be milked for the profits; – often products may need to be harvested; and – in a few cases, product extensions can be developed. Detecting Maturity and Decline: â€Å"The need in strategy development is to detect changes in the trend of  industry sales, to detect when the product life cycle will enter a new phase†, (Asker, 1984). In other word, it is very essential for a firm to view and analyze all market factors involved when its product’s growth phase of the product life cycle changes to a flat maturity phase and when the maturity phase changes into a decline phase. Below are some factors that supply as market indicators that serve as an aid for a firm in detecting its product maturity and decline†¦ – Price pressures caused by overcapacity and the lack of product differentiation; – As the product matures. Buyers have become familiar with the related product and hence, they are unwilling to pay finest price for the product in order to obtain brand security; – Technology advancement and substitute products may lead to the decline of a product. A suitable example for this case is the black and white television sets which due to technological development have lead to the production of color televisions – a definite unpredictable effect on sales of black and white television sets; – When the number of potential first time buyers for a particular product decreases, the market along with the company sales and profits happen to decline; – The market is fully penetrated and there are no sources of growth from existing and new users; and – Existing customers may start to be disinterested in the product and are probably looking forward to switch brands. Actually a product life cycle is conceptually simple yet powerful. However, it is not easily applied. The stages described above are not easily forecasted or predicted or even easily determined. Furthermore, it is difficult to determine and analyze the product definition and finally, even  if the stages in the life cycle are determined, the strategy implications are not always obvious. Therefore, on the whole, I would like to conclude that a company should be aware of the life cycle stages of each product it is responsible for. The company should also predict on how long the product is expected to linger in that stage. Such thinking is very important for setting up strategies such as let say, if the product is expected to remain the maturity stage for a long time; a replacement product might be introduced later in the maturity stage. On the other hand, if the maturity stage is expected to be short, however, a new product should be introduced much earlier.

Pathophysiology of Obesity Essay

The composition of this research paper will concentrate on the topic about the pathophysiologic condition of the disorder called obesity. Thus, this would focus in the said topic to determine the functional changes that go along with such type of disorder that is seen to have developed as one of the prominent health problem in the society. Moreover, the paper would work in rendering fundamental information that is seen essential to further understand the condition of obesity. In addition to this, this research would also deal with the key areas that are seen to be of major concern with regard to battling and preventing obesity. Nonetheless, this holds on the purpose in rendering definite and essential information about obesity. The following will be discussed: †¢ A Brief Background: Obesity †¢ Pathophysiology of Obesity †¢ Causes of Obesity †¢ Medical Treatment and Nursing Intervention At the end of the paper, in intends to render facts and information about the pathophysiology of the obesity. Likewise, the completion of this research paper is also set to provide clear and evident information with regard to the possible medical treatments and nursing interventions that could be done to be able to battle and prevent obesity. A Brief Background: Obesity It can be said that the discussions over the subject of obesity is normally overlooked as one of the major health issues that is in need of accorded attention. Normally, the society would describe obesity as a state wherein an individual with such condition is seen to be ridiculous for having such abnormal and fatty body. In a sense, obesity must be regarded as a serious condition in which it is seen to be one of the most prominent health disorders that if not properly handled it can result to numerous severe health complications in the body. In general, obesity is characterized as a chronic condition that involves excessive amount body fat (Goroll, 2006). Although body fat is necessary for storing energy, heat insulation, shock absorption, and other essential functions, the normal amount of body fat should only be between 25-30% for women and 18-23% for men (Goroll, 2006). Thus, women with excessive body fat with over 30% and for men with over 25% body fat are already considered obese (Goroll, 2006). Moreover, the obesity is also seen to be one of the escalating health conditions in the society wherein the numbers of people with such disorder are rapidly increasing (â€Å"Obesity,† n. d. ). In the United States, the obesity has already reached epidemic extent in which it is seen that one in every three Americans is obese (â€Å"Obesity,† n. d. ). Thus, obesity, as a serious health condition, is also seen to be rapidly increasing in the global society that the occurrence of obesity has practically doubled up from the year 1991 up to 1998 (â€Å"Obesity,† n. . ). Pathophysiology of Obesity With the fact that obesity is a significant health threat, the extra weight or the excessive fat is inclined to create extraordinary stress in all parts of the body (â€Å"Causes, incidence, and risk factors,† n. d. ). Thus, the occurrence of obesity normally incorporates negative developments in the body that are seen as the acquisition of serious illnesses and raises the risk of individuals to having diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease, and stroke and gallbladder disease (â€Å"Causes, incidence, and risk factors,† n. . ). Obesity also creates ill-health conditions such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol that are normally seen among the adults, which is now believed to be seen in the children that are obese (â€Å"Pathophysiology of obesity,† n. d. ). In addition to this, the obesity also increases the risk of individual to acquire certain types of cancer. Also, obese individuals are seen to be more inclined to develop osteoarthritis and sleep apnea (â€Å"Pathophysiology of obesity,† n. d. ). Likewise, the obesity or the excessive fat is often accompanied by several symptoms such as breathlessness, tiredness, back pain, sweatiness, arthritis, menstrual disorders, poor sleeping and depression (â€Å"Pathophysiology of obesity,† n. d. ). Also, obesity increases the probability of myocardial infraction and heart failure (â€Å"Pathophysiology of obesity,† n. d. ). Hence, it is seen that biggest probable impact of obesity in health, more especially with that of the elderly, is the diversity of its effects with other systems in the body (â€Å"Pathophysiology of obesity’† n. d. ). Causes of Obesity In most circumstances, the majority of medical researchers agree that a combination of excessive calorie consumption and a inactive lifestyle are seen to be the primary causes of obesity (â€Å"Obesity,† n. d. ). Thus, the increased of food consumption is normally attributed as genetic, medical or psychiatric illness (â€Å"Obesity,† n. d. ). Likewise, it is also said that the other probable causes of obesity are hereditary influences, overeating, diet high in simple carbohydrates, slow metabolism, and frequency of eating, physical inactivity, medication such as antidepressants and psychological factors such as severe emotional distress (â€Å"Obesity,† n. . ). Moreover, in the review that is done in the year 2006, it is said that the most probable factors that have contribute in the rise of obesity are seen to be the cause of insufficient sleep, endocrine disruptors, decreased rates of smoking, increased use of medication that leads to weight gain, pregnancy at a later age, intrauterine and intergenerational effects, positive natural selection of people with a higher BMI (â€Å"10 Factors in Rise of Obesity,† n. d. ). Medical Treatment and Nursing Intervention Treatment through the help of a physician is seen to be necessary in obesity, more especially during the times wherein the person’s own efforts to lose weight is not working and when it is seen essential that simultaneous medical conditions make it vital for an obese person to lose weight (â€Å"Medical Treatment for Obesity,† n. d. ). Thus, prescription of medications may seem as necessary for those having people with obesity-related health problems (â€Å"Medical Treatment for Obesity,† n. . ). In addition to this, the prescriptions of over-the-counter supplements are also considered as essential in the medical treatment of obesity that could helpful for the people in effort to lose weight (â€Å"Medical Treatment for Obesity,† n. d. ). Behavioural strategies are also used in the treatment of obesity that could help modify dietary habits and increase activity levels of obese people (â€Å"Medical Treatment for Obesity,† n. . ). Likewise, psychotherapy for eating disorders with the therapist is also seen essential in the treatment process of obesity that may also require medication (â€Å"Medical Treatment for Obesity,† n. d. ). On the other hand, it is seen evident that the other probable nursing intervention that could be done to battle obesity is having a healthy and active lifestyle through the presence of exercise. As such, the involvement through healthy exercises is indeed helpful in treatment of obesity as these activities are good in burning calories and other excess fats in the body. In addition to this, a good healthy diet is also seen as another nursing intervention for obesity in which eating healthy foods with balanced diet are essential in maintaining and achieving healthy body. Nonetheless, the modified personal discipline with regard to adverse eating habits is also seen as probable nursing intervention for obesity. Conclusion  With the above written facts and information about the pathophysiology of obesity, it is seen evident that choosing such topic in this research paper is indeed significant and helpful for the people, more especially among the individuals with such condition, as this provides factual data of the probable negative results that comes with obesity. As such, this research paper also provides factual gathering of information in battling and treating obesity. Nonetheless, it is seen evident that the issue of obesity is one of the serious health problems that are in need of proper attention.

Probability Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Probability - Term Paper Example Statistics use assumption on population distribution to estimate population values based on sample values (Kemp & Kemp 257-66). Probability distributions functions or simply distribution functions are used (Soong 39-41). The distribution function associates a variable value with a probability (Soong 39). This can take the form Fx(x) =P(Xx) where the lowercase x refers to a specific value of a variable. Probability distribution functions have shapes represented by the mathematical equations. The areas under the curves or distribution functions are associated with probabilities. In business statistics, some of the distribution functions that are often used are the Z-statistics, t-statistics, chi-square distribution, and the F-statistics (Kemp & Kemp 47-297). There is also an option to use what statisticians call as the non-parametric statistics (Kemp & Kemp 298-315). The choice of what distribution functions to use are determined by convention or typical practice and theory. For example, in estimating the population mean, it is assumed that the sample mean converge to the population mean through repetition of sampling procedures or if the population is large. Thus, in estimating the mean, statistics usually makes the assumption based on a normal distribution. Although several distribution functions are used in statistics, in this work we focus our sights on three: the z-statistics, the t-statistics, and the chi-square statistics. Figure 1 captures a standard normal distribution function. The standard normal distribution associates a value of a variable with probability. For example, the probability that the value of the variable is between a very low number and high number can be represented by 100%. In the language of statistics, this take s the form P (-< x < +) = 1 or 100%. In other words, this means that in a

Fashion, Culture and Tibetan Buddhism Research Paper

Fashion, Culture and Tibetan Buddhism - Research Paper Example The essay "Fashion, Culture and Tibetan Buddhism" will study the relationship that exists between Tibetan Buddhism (its culture and religion) and fashion, while comparing it with Islam and its influence on fashion. In the context of fashion and social identity, observations revealed that an individual interacts with fashion in a same manner he/she interacts with other people, thus using fashion to reveal what he/she wants to personify. The direct contact between the wearer and various fashion elements (such as, clothes and other accessories) help to establish a personal identity. Since fashion tends to portray the link between physical materials (such as, clothes and jewelry) and the wearer’s personal values, there is also a close connection between fashion and one’s self-perception. Fashion affects the wearer’s self-perception, thus acting like a filter, positioning itself between society and the wearer. Observations revealed that generally, physical bodies are viewed as social symbols, where female bodies form an important mechanism for preserving social and cultural traditions; wherein majority of the conservative religions tend to dictate stringent norms for female fashion . While establishing personal identities, fashion also helps in constructing social status and position, where it is presumed that fashion is a true reflection of the wearer’s self and lifestyle. The strict sociocultural rules governing fashions are often visible as laws of the land that force people (primarily women). to follow rigid social standards in the context of clothing, and often giving rise to a social tension between conformists and dissidents (Voss, 405-407). In such instances, it is evident that culture plays a dominating role and fashion becomes a strong tool in hands of the conservatives, which is used for gender subjugation and social control, a condition prevalent in the Islamic countries. On the other hand, social dissidents also use fashion t o symbolize their breakaway from rigid socio-cultural and religious norms. Therefore, fashion is closely related to different aspects of the culture and society from which it originates and subsequently represents. Tibetan history, culture and fashion Tibetan culture  has evolved through the influence of various external factors. Tibet had established trade connections with India and China from the ancient times, and these two countries have produced a significant effect on its cultural development. Tibet’s  inaccessibility, owing to its remote location, has however helped to preserve certain local influences that make it stand apart from both India and China. In terms of religion, Buddhism  has a strong influence on the socio-cultural aspects of Tibet, since its introduction in the country as early as the seventh century. Music, literature, art, clothing and almost all aspects of the Tibetan life strongly reflect presence of Buddhist values and beliefs. In Tibet, Buddh ism has developed its own unique form, which adopted the  Bon cultural tradition, interspersed with various local beliefs. According to

Assignment 1: Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Tasks of HR Managers - Essay Example It covers numerous areas of the human resource like recruitment, performance, and compensation among others. Designing HR strategies refer to formulating ideas, which will make an organization achieve its goals (Graham, 2010).   A Human Resources manager, director, or generalist plays many roles in an organization (Leatherbarrow, 2010). Basing on the size of the company, these HR jobs, might have overlapping duties. In larger organizations, the HR manager, generalist, or director has clearly defined and separate roles in HR management. These duties or responsibilities bring extra responsibility and authority in the hands of the HR manager, then the director, and eventually, the Vice President who might lead several departments such as the administration. HR managers, and occasionally HR directors, oversee numerous different departments, which are each led by specialized or functional HR staff such as the compensation manager, the training manager, or the recruiting manager. Human R esource managers are supporters of both the company and the persons who work for the company. Therefore, a talented HR professional conveys a constant balancing performance to meet both needs productively (Martin, 2010). Therefore, HR managers should have full choice in implementing and designing HR strategy. There is an ever-present jeopardy that the idea of strategic HRM can become somewhat nebulous, meaning pleasant to have but difficult to realize. The risk of creating a rhetoric or reality gap is heightened. Broad and habitually bland statements of strategic intent can readily be created (Mayo, 2011).  Ã‚  

Writing Assignment 2 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Writing Assignment 2 - Essay Example The article also aimed to establish a pattern of communication between different types of groups. The study conducted by Kurz focused more on the â€Å"discussions between in-group dyads about an out-group, or a member of an out-group† (Kurz, 2009. p. 894). Technically, what Kurz wanted to achieve in his study is to understand the dynamics of communications within a given group and how this dynamics affect the individuals within and outside of the group. According to Kurz, â€Å"the prevalence of stereotypical descriptions in discussions of out-groups within in-group dyads may stem from a desire to affirm shared beliefs about the out-group†(Kurz, 2009. p. 893). In the article, Kurz described stereotyping as a means for the individual to gain favor within the group. By surveying the various communication stereotypes, the author hoped to identify useful means of communication that individuals and groups can use to gain favors from each other. In conducting the research, Kurz relied on the dyad and group discussion paradigms to get the data and other information that he needed. He also tried to investigate the ways on how narratives of group members are reproduced among the other members of the group and used effectively. In drawing his hypothesis, Kurz relied on a study of related literature that points out that those narratives about group members when communicated to other members tend to be â€Å"stripped of stereotype inconsistent information (SI), with stereotype consistent (SC) information being retained† (Kurz, 2009, p. 895). Accordingly, the stereotype consistency bias can be attributed to the communication process by which the information passes from one person to another rather than a result of general memory biases (Wigboldus, et al, 2005). In other words, as the message from an outside source is repeated within the group and is passed from one group member to another, the message now takes

American Civil War Description Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

American Civil War Description - Term Paper Example "Defeat and emancipation destroyed the slave society of the Old South, and gave birth to a different southern society." (Roark, et al; Page 370). "All Americans experienced the crucible of war; but the war affected no group more than the four million African Americans who saw its beginning as slaves and emerged as free people" (Roark, et al; page 370). "Abraham Lincoln faced the worst crisis in the history of the nation: the threat of disunion. He revealed his strategy on March 4, 1861, in his inaugural address, firm yet conciliatory. First, he vowed to avoid any action that would push the Upper South out of the Union; second, he reassured the Lower South that the Republicans would not abolish slavery. (Roark, et al; Page 370)Always, Lincoln denied the right of secession and upheld Union. "His counterpart, Jefferson Davis, however, fully intended to establish the Confederate States of America as an independent republic." (Roark, et al; Page 370). "To achieve permanence, Davis had to sustain the secession fever that had carried the Lower South out of the Union" and add new stars to the Confederate flag." (Roark, et al; page 371). However, both wanted to achieve their objectives peacefully; but, as Lincoln later observed, "both parties deprecated war, but one of them would make war rather than let the nation survive, and the other would accept war rather than let it perish." (Roark, et al; page 371). Masterfully, Lincoln thus shifted the fateful decision of war or peace to Davis." (Roark, et al; page 371). "On April 9, 1861, Davis and his Cabinet met to consider the situation in Charleston harbor. Territorial integrity of the Confederacy demanded the end of the federal presence, Davis argued, but his secretary of State Robert Toombs of Georgia pleaded against military action. Davis rejected Toombs' prophecy and sent word to Confederate troops in Charleston to take the fort. Bombardment reduced the fort to rubble.

Photomedia in Modern and Contemporary Art Essay

Photomedia in Modern and Contemporary Art - Essay Example The essay "Photomedia in Modern and Contemporary Art" talks about the Photomedia in the context of Modern and Contemporary Art. In week 2 the articles analyzed were Laszlo’s Moholy-Nagy A New Instrument of Vision and Walter Benjamin’s the Work of Art in the Age of Mechanical Reproduction. Moholy-Nagy’s text provides a broad theoretical overview of the unique qualities of the photographic art. The most notable element is the indication that photography is not simply the replication of reality, but rather assumes new artistic forms of expression. This argument is very sound in that instead of focusing on abstract notions of aesthetics, it indicates that photography largely demonstrates newly perceptions on space and reality. Walter Benjamin’s the Work of Art in the Age of Mechanical Reproduction is a seminal work of art criticism and contains a number of important points. One of the most pervasive considerations is Benjamin’s contention that are in th e current milieu has lost a sense of mystique of mysticism because of mass production methods. Benjamin’s insights make considerable sense especially when considered in light of contemporary Internet or new media art forms where the very medium is transitory. While Benjamin links this insight to the need to reimagine the political context of the art object, it is perhaps more contemporary relevant in the perspective it provides on the larger structural interpretations of the art object. In these regards, one considers that art functions. not just as a plane of understanding where one judges its aesthetic qualities, but that the nature of ‘aesthetic qualities’ is also a shifting significatory pattern. Week 3 While previous readings have considered the nature of photography as an art form and the extent that the subject content bespeaks to an aesthetic form, the Photographic Conditions of Surrealism examines the nature of framing and other elements that contribute to the artistry of the photograph. In examining two pictures, the author states, â€Å"In both cases one is treated to the capture of the photographic subject by the frame, and in both, this capture has a sexual import† (‘Photographic Conditions of Surrealism,’ p.89). Even as a slight argument could be made for the sexual implications of the photographic framing techniques implemented, it seems that in large part the author has overreached in his assessment as a means of hyperbole. Still, the insight that photographic framing affects the perceptions of the specific aesthetic elements of the photograph remains a

Holding up general motors Issues in the fisher body case study Literature review

Holding up general motors Issues in the fisher body case study - Literature review Example Holding up general motors? Issues in the fisher body case study A classic case study in the economics of organizations, and pertinent to this discussion, regards the relations that prevailed between General Motors, Inc. and the Fisher Body Company, Ltd. during the 1920s. Accordingly, the first of accounts to be provided was by Klein et al, whose work – Vertical integration, appropriable rents, and the competitive contracting process – was to form the basis upon which all discussions were held. This was until Ronald Coase, presented his perceptions on the issue of transaction cost economics, through his 2000 work - The Acquisition of Fisher Body by General Motors. Through this work, Coase was to decisively criticise the then ‘prevailing perception’ on the relations between General Motors and the Fisher Body Company. His criticism was founded upon the grounds that the long held perspective was factually incorrect, providing critical input in support of his arguments. Regarded as the founding father of modern (contemporary ) transaction cost economics, his input and experience are thus considered critical towards effectively discussing the case under study. Of particular importance is his visit to the U.S, with specific focus placed upon the car manufacturer industry during the 1930s (Coase 2000, p. 16). General Motors and the Fisher Body Company case that occurred during the 1920s has significantly affected economic discussions and undertakings in the current world.

Consider a particular real organization of your choice which has an Essay

Consider a particular real organization of your choice which has an international profile. Discuss how the organization is adopt - Essay Example The company is primarily engaged in manufacturing vehicles for the purpose of selling them to the general customers. The company was originally established in the year 1903 by Henry Ford and since then, the company has produced more than 260 millions of vehicles (Austin, 2001). It is worth mentioning that the automobile industry has grown to be much competitive in nature over the preceding few decades, particularly after the advent of the globalisation process. At the same time, the continuous advancement in the technological aspects has also contributed towards altering the business models and forcing the companies like Ford to incorporate radical changes in their respective supply chain and logistics operations for sustaining business in this competitive landscape. The company, during the year 1995 has initiated a plan to restructure its business model and other key areas of its activities such as Order to Delivery (OTD) and Ford Production System. The company with new structuring plan indented to reduce OTD and further desired to convert its supply chain based operations from push type to pull (Cao & et. al., 2010). In its structuring plan, it can be viewed that the ultimate aim of the company is to perform effectual supply chain along with logistics operations in a cost-effective manner (The Saylor Foundation, 2013; Ha, 2008). Correspondingly, this essay intends to discuss the sustainability and the green supply chain in the context of The Ford Motor Company. The Marketing Channels and Logistics Frameworks, Models and Theories and Latest Trends The marketing functions generally focus upon developing the tasks that are executed by the distribution systems and also the associated utilities of these functions. In this similar concern, marketing channels are viewed as the set of inter-reliant organisations that are engaged in the process of making certain products or services for consumption purpose. The marketing channels eventually draw attention to certain g roup of members such as wholesalers, distributors and retailers among the prime. These members are commonly engaged in the distribution system and are generally responsible for deliverance of products or services from the point of inception to the point of final consumption. It is worth mentioning that management of such marketing channels requires planning, organizing, coordinating, directing along with controlling efforts of channel members. For example, Ford Motor has articulated certain global terms and conditions especially for its suppliers that are duly required to be abided by them in order to conduct business with the company. Any supplier, who do not abide by the established sets of code of conduct which formulated by the company is liable to be terminated from the contractual arrangement (Borade & Bansod, 2007). In the contemporary business environment, most of the organisations are involved in providing customer-oriented view of marketing channels. The domain of marketin g channels typically includes market channel structure, governance and relationship management. In this regard, it can be firmly stated that the effort of one group in

Male Character Essay Example for Free

Male Character Essay Masculine roles have effective power in recent movies. In the chapter, the author who is Kenneth Mackinnon talks about ‘masculinity in movies’ by variety ways. He not only considers about the different kinds of movie genres, individual movies and those male movie stars in general, but also introduces the hard body and soft body contrastively for audience. Moreover, Mackinnon mentions about the disadvantages of masculinity in the films and provides three recent illustrations in 2000 to answer the questions of masculinity clearly. The evidence which author selected is widespread but all come from the main idea of masculinity such as technological advances, the homoeroticism and heterosexuals, the feminism and masculinity and even the culture and history about masculinity in movies. At the beginning of the chapter, Mackinnon introduces the different genres about masculinity in movies by using lots of examples. There are variety of movie types such as action genres, bond movies, westerns, war films, slasher movies, sports movies and something else. One of the most important types is action movie. As Mackinnon said, action movie is †a version of heroism was promoted in these movies that depended on visual evidence of physical strength and might. †(P294) For this reason, the publishers pay much money to superstars in order to get the extraordinary effects in action films. For example, Sylvester Stallone in ‘make rampage’ movie. Similarly, bond movie, as an action series, depicted a new type of masculinity, which found in †Gentleman Chivalry† from 1962 to the present. The kind of movie continues to execute the heroism, which is popular among audience. For instance, the famous identities of 007 are James Bond and his ‘bond girl’. However, there is too much â€Å"technological excess† and special effects in recent years. That’s captured audience’s attention negatively. The author has also stated the westerns, which are â€Å"the supreme genre for the depiction of traditional, laconic, dominating masculinity. † (P297)The protagonists are usually cowboys in Hollywood film. The consequence of those boys usually be alone. Moreover, western movie allows violence, homosociality and â€Å"evasion of domestication†. The author’s opinion of masculinity in sports movies is that they provide a kind of lifestyle, which is a pure physical machismo for audience. In other words, it is â€Å"a highly stylized version of traditional masculinity†(P300) people have chance to watch a â€Å"natural† masculinity in sports movie. (i. e. Field of Dreams). Another genre has been mentioned is comedy. It’s a different side of masculinity. Comedy always shows audience the irony of traditional masculinity, especially in vulnerable side. They focused more on conflicts from fatherhood rather than motherhood. In order to understand the masculinity movie deeply, the author selected a few individual movies such as Born on the Fourth of July, Dead Ringers, The Crying Game and The Full Monty. The protagonist of Born on the Fourth of July is Don Kunz who acts as a â€Å"heroic masculine ideal† in the movie. He thinks winning is the most important thing. â€Å"to win, others must be losers†(p304)make him full of physical strength. He is a typical figure of masculine in movie. Male stars are also an important factor for masculinity movie, because female audience, even some of male audience will follow the movie stars. In the chapter, Mackinnon introduce male stars such as Warren Beatty, Clint Eastwood and Charles Bronson.

Use Of Characterizations The Woman Warrior English Literature Essay

Use Of Characterizations The Woman Warrior English Literature Essay Culture ideas, symbols, norms and values play a significant role in the creation of women images and the differentiation of gender roles. In fact, women still combat traditional stereotypes of womens roles in different societies and in the home. It is argued by the Chinese communists that the Confucian hierarchies have justified class oppressions in our history and that women were the biggest victims of Confucianism. By analysing the novels characterization of The Woman Warrior, this is a powerful exploration of the female role in Chinese society facing the struggles with the old traditions cultural issues and gender relations. This analysis will reveal the struggles and issues by looking at how Kingstons use of characterizations to symbolize the truth and the women human problems, how Kingston depicts the characters on different Chinese women she met in her life in the corresponding settings of imaginary female roles in the novel, and exploring how old traditions evolved and influen ced women in this novel. In order to provide a basis for understanding the woman oppression and the role of woman identity, it is helpful to look at the meaning of the depiction on the main character of The Woman Warrior, such as No-Name Woman, Fa Mu Lan, Moon Orchid, and The silent girl to see how women are treated differently and to see how she built into the theme. The narrator, Maxine Hong Kingston collects a total of five stories based on her life experiences. The stories consist of different characters that are mainly female to set up the theme that Chinese women were facing different issues because gender is socially and culturally constructed. Yet the uses of characters are more than just introducing the characters for readers to see and understand the characters, she effectively uses the characters to symbolize the truth and the women human problems where she tries to leave words to readers. She describes the characters in her stories as poor and afflicted in both their mind and body. She successful ly uses the effective technique to make readers feel as if they are in the same room with the person using characterization as metaphors. In the novel, she first introduces no name woman who is her aunt in the way that allows readers to be drawn into image and exploitation. The narrator started retelling her moms story about her aunt no name woman. Kingstons mother tells the narrator a family secret about her drown-in-the-well aunt who had her existence erased by her own family. She writes, You must not tell anyone, my mother said, what I am about to tell you. In China your father had a sister who killed herself. She jumped into the family well. We say that your father has all brothers because it is as if she had never been born. (Kingston 1.1) In essence, Kingston knows nothing about her aunt but she only knows she is an excluded person in her family from her mothers tone. Her nameless aunt who was married but had a baby outside her marriage while her husband was away for work was punished for messing up the order of relationship. The villagers threw rocks and food to raid her house as punishment for her messing up the order of relationship. Eventually, she killed herself by drowning in the family well with her new born baby. Through effective uses of characterization, Kingston is able to transmit the truth though her mothers story. The passage above shows as a warning to Kingston. It is meant to warn Kingston to avoid being a disgraceful and disloyal woman like her aunt. It also reveals that being a woman is supposed to be careful and loyal. At the end of the chapter, Kingston also makes her own assumptions that she imagines her aunt was a victim of a horrible rape and that the baby who was killed was a baby girl. Kingsto n writes, To be a woman, to have a daughter in starvation time was a waste enough. My aunt could have been the lone romantic who gave everything up for sex. Women in the old China did not choose. Some-man had commanded her to lie with him and be his secret evil.(Kingston 1.6) Reputation plays a vital role in the past and even now. In the context shows her aunt has no right to complain and she has no choice in the affair. Her aunt clearly limits her rights. However, her only right to choose on her own is to commit suicide to drown herself with the baby into the family well. The nameless woman assumingly faces severe feminine oppression is a precise example of how the settings are portrayed that having no human rights and freedom of choice for Chinese women. From this particular chapter, Chinese womens oppression reflects the human problems of having no basic women empowerment, womens human rights, and womens freedom of choice. In the book of Advancing the human rights of women, it states concerns of the position of the women. The United Nations sets as a basic goals to reaffirm faith in fundamental human right in the dignity and worth of human person, in equal right of men and women (Andrew P.171) Kingston appears to resent the standards that Chinese women are faced with. Throughout the book, Kingston is rebelling from the standard of how people of Chinese tradition think other females should act and conform. She struggles to accept the pattern of conformity, and she refuses to understand a culture that she is a part of. Despite the fact that Chinese traditional society states that women were subordinated to men, Kingston views that in a different way that women can be brave, strong and courageous rather than treated like slaves. An imaginary example of a womans role of is Fa Mu Lan who is depicted as a heroic woman. The story about this heroic character is a perfect contracted example of a low-value woman and a powerful woman. Fa Mu Lan is who Kingston wants to be like. The strongest woman, stronger than any man is in the chapter of White Tiger. Mu Lan is a role model for Kingstons life. She is a fierce warrior, and she is also a woman. Kingston ponders that she and Fa Mu Lan are not so much different; they both have swords on their backs (Kingston 2.189). It also influences her being as a woman and also a warrior using powerful words. In the context, Kingston is often angry and frustrated regarding the role of women through her Chinese-Americans life. In Chinese society, Confucianism is regarded as a code of conduct, a set of virtues that should be obeyed and delivered as a part of Chinese traditions. Women in Confucian society are seen as below men. Women and men have an almost servant and master type of relationship. Most women are keepers of the household; far less women are educated than men. A womans most important task is to create a son for her husband (Confucianism). Nai-Hua, Ko in her essay on Familism in Confucianism investigates the world of women and men in Chinese society. She begins with Chinese charaters, and indicates The Chinese character for woman shows a female figure sitting at home. On the other hand, the Chinese character for man is a combination of field and labor (Familism P.4) After marriage, this is the simple structure for women and men in old Chinese society. Women should always be subordinate to men. The story of The Western Palace is also giving a conflicting message for this idea of representing the old China. Setting things with Moon Orchids husband, Kingstons depiction in this chapter leaves some debated concerns about feminine anger on old traditional issues. In truth, Brave Orchid is incredibly proven as typical of feminist hero once understanding how valiantly her mother has fought to retain a sense of identity and dignity in America. Moreover, Kingstons mother also cites that the role of a wife is to scold her husband into becoming a good man (Kingston 4.130). In contrast, Moon Orchid, Brave Orchids sister was described as weak and uncoordinated from Kingstons writing. In this chapter, there is a less humorous example where Brave Orchid forces Moon Orchid to confront her husband. Moon Orchid always seems scared and worried about seeing her own husband because she is afraid that the United States doesnt allow for two wives. She wa nts her sister Brave Orchid to be with her to talk with her husband. Moon Orchid is passive that she depends on other people to guide her for the reason that she is infused by the Confucian hierarchies. The scene in this chapter implies the significant impacts of these traditional influences to both characters life. Brave Orchid and Moon Orchid are two Chinese women who live in two different countries. Moon Orchid assumes that the old traditions will carry over in the new country and asserts. However, Kingstons portrayal of her mother is a more factual warrior as a Chinese American immigrant. Within The Woman Warrior, the reader must know for a more comprehensive understanding of the depiction on characterizations. Kingston has emphasized the fact that how different womens roles in Chinese traditions facing the struggles with the cultural issues. By the depiction of the characters throughout the novel, she determines her aunt and Moon Orchid are both unfortunate Chinese women who are victims of old Chinese traditions because the power of Chinese traditions philosophy carried through women. Despite the narrators problems with traditions, the unique qualities of Fa Mu lan also inspire Kingston to find her own definition of woman warrior. Kingston tries to expound her individuality and her mothers identity as a Chinese-American woman who is also facing the struggles and issues because of deliberate misinterpretation of Chinese traditions.

Impact of Wind Farms on Wild Life Avian Mortality

Impact of Wind Farms on Wild Life Avian Mortality Humanity depending on oil, coal and gas to produce energy is destroying many ecosystems around the world. They are reaching crisis levels, finding alternative energy source is critical. Wind power, can be viable energy source that costs very less than other power producers. Wind power releases no pollutants or harmful substances like the other generators. But there are some issues even with wind-energy such as bird mortality. Birds are getting killed through collisions with turbines and other supporting structures of wind-energy. Construction associated with wind turbines clear vegetation around the area, disturbing natural nesting area of birds and other wildlife. Many surveys have been conducted at various locations around the globe from 1990 regarding bird. In the recent surveys, it is revealed that huge number of bat fatalities at wind energy facilities at different sites of wind farms all across the globe. The surveys are done based on the carcass found near the wind turbine, but it is speculated that this method doesnt show the actual number of animal killed. According to the Globe and Mail article Wind farm turbines deadly for birds, bats a study conducted between July and December of 2009 at Wolfe Island with 86 huge turbines showed, 602 birds and 1,270 bats were killed by the turbines over that stretch. These numbers are in consistent with other wind farms in North America. Similar condition is estimated by The Spanish Ornithological Society in Madrid that Spains 18,000 wind turbines may be killing 6 million to 18 million birds and bats annually according to article The trouble with turbines: An ill wind byMeera Subramanian. At another big farm, The Altamont Pass Wind Resource Area, California housing 5,400 wind turbine they conducted a study where they searched for bird carcasses within 50 m of 4,074 wind turbines for periods ranging from 6 months to 4.5 years. Using mortality estimates adjusted for searcher detection and scavenger removal rates, They estimated the annual wind turbine-caused bird fatalities to number 67 golden eagles, 188red-tailed hawks, 348 American kestrels , 440 burrowing owls , 1,127 raptors, and 2,710 birds according acrticle Bird Mortality in the Altamont Pass Wind Resource Area, California by Smallwood, K Shawn. Many believe that the survey numbers are underestimated. To solve these issues many steps have been taken such as estimating various aspects of the survey. Aspects include estimated area to find carcass, probability of finding carcass, persistence rate and the number of carcasses found divided by estimated detection probability to obtain precise bird fatalities according to article Ecological impacts of wind farms on birds:Questions,hypotheses,and research needs by Shifeng Wang, SicongWang , Pete Smith (600). The article also states that new technologies have also been implemented to further the research such as remote sensing technologies into the monitoring experiments. Radar which uses microwaves to detect objects in the sky and build images based on it which is being used to determine and evaluate birds flight pattern. Other technologies include thermal infrared imaging cameras used to observe bird movement around wind turbines. These technologies certainly help in understanding and making wind farms truly eco-friendly Wind farms can also impact the habitats around them. The scale of direct habitat loss depends on the scale of wind farms and infrastructure. It is estimated around 2-5% of the total development area. According to article Information needs to support environmental impact assessment of the effects of European marine offshore wind farms on birds, by A.D.Fox Few measures have been developed and identified to decrease avian mortality by studying their biology,flight patterns and environmental surroundings. Mitigation measures can be divideded into two categories 1) Best practice measures 2) Additional measures. Best practice measures are those which should be a standard in all wind farms and additional measures are based on the aspects of wind farms such as their location, size and infrastructure. Halting wind turbine if any bird group is passing through. This can reduce bird mortality rate by 50%. The Mitigation methods should be species specific. Collision reduction can be reduced through audible deterrence. Using negative reinforcement technique by playing sounds of predator birds near the turbines will decrease the chances of bird entering the radius of wind turbine. Avoiding breeding areas or critical habitats in and near the wind farm construction. Identifying the conservation areas and avoiding them. With this measure any key ecological area can be preserved such as bird habitat, endangered bird species, bird migration areas etc. Implementation of proper safety practices to protect key and sensitive areas. Providing proper training and information to the site workers and employing a ecologist during wind farm establishment Establishing proper monitoring sensors in and around the wind farms to avoid future potential bird fatalities. Establishing turbines in close vicinity. Engineering a solution to fit even big turbines. Grouping turbines together with proper estimated gaps based on the flight patterns of birds and providing minimum corridor for bird flight. Painting the turbine blades to make them more visible during all weather conditions can reduce the collision rate of birds. Installing most of the cables underground would minimize exterior infrastructure but can disturb natural habitat around. Establishing wind farms in proper time avoiding sensitive periods such as migrating season of birds. Maintenance crews have to follow proper timing periods that doesnt disturb the habitat around as the crews need to use boats or helicopters for offshore installations. These are some of the measures suggested in the article Assessing the impacts of wind farms on birds by Allan L. Drewitt. There are two sides to every coin. Every man made change in the nature has both positive and negative impacts. I believed that wind farms are clean pure energy which humanity should move towards but even wind farms are having impact on wildlife habitats around. Considering the damage done by other power generators this can be minimal but thriving to make wind energy more eco-friendly is necessary. Every bird fatalities has a impact on the food chain established by the nature disturbing the food chain can have unforeseen consequences around the globe. Following the standard and necessary measures to prevent avian mortality in necessary. Works Cited Richard , Blackwell . Windfarm turbines deadly for birds, bats. Windfarm turbines deadly for birds, bats (Published Wednesday, Jun. 09 2010, 9:34 PM EDT ): n. pag. Web. Shifeng Wang. Ecological impacts of wind farms on birds :Questions,hypotheses,and research needs. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews (2015): 600-06. Web. Meera Subramanian. Bird and Bat deaths from wind turbines. The trouble with turbines: An ill wind (20 June 2012): n. pag. Web. Smallwood, K Shawn. Bird Mortality in the Altamont Pass Wind Resource Area, California. Journal of Wildlife Management (January 2008): 215-23. Web. ALLAN L. DREWITT. Assessing the impacts of wind farms on birds. International Journal of Avian Science (27 March 2006): n. pag. Web.

Eleanor Roosevelt Essay -- biography biographies bio

I. Introduction William Jay Jacobs, the author of â€Å"Eleanor Roosevelt†, was born in 1933. He has written many biographies of people like Abraham Lincoln, Winston Churchill, ad Eleanor Roosevelt. Jacobs especially admired Eleanor Roosevelt. He described her as a â€Å"woman of courage† who was able to â€Å"turn her pain into strength†. Jacobs says that by this biography and others, he is able to â€Å"reach a very special audience: young people searching for role models, trying to understand themselves†. Jacobs has written many biographies of different people because he hopes that his young readers can draw inspiration from â€Å"the great reservoirs of recorded history† The element of â€Å"Eleanor Roosevelt† is biography. The author, William Jay Jacobs, used primary sources to write about another person’s life, making it a biography. Jacobs also used third-person point of view. He used words like â€Å"she† and â€Å"her† indicating that it was someone else who was telling the story. If Eleanor were writing it, then the story would have contained words like â€Å"I† and â€Å"me†. This would have shown that the story is an autobiography since Eleanor was writing about herself† The story also displays the element of biography when the author’s purpose of the story was to inform the reader about the true account of the subject’s life. The topic of this story is self-esteem and dignity. In the American Heritage Dictionary, self-esteem is described as â€Å"confidence, self-respect to oneself† and dignity is defined as â€Å"the quality or state of being worthy of esteem or respect†. To me, having self-esteem and dignity means to be proud of yourself and your abilities. This relates to â€Å"Eleanor Roosevelt† because Eleanor learned that when she became more proud and confi... ...n better told if it was Eleanor who was writing the story. She would have described her thoughts and feelings more accurately if she was the writer of the story. I would highly recommend this story to all middle-school age students. Eleanor Roosevelt is a good role model for all students to follow. From Eleanor, students can learn many things such as compassion, determination, and perseverance. Students can learn to work hard for their goals even if obstacles are in their way. Eleanor Roosevelt also teaches compassion when she worked hard at the war effort and said special words to each of the wounded soldiers. In this way, Eleanor brought comfort to the battle-hardened men. Students can also learn the most important theme throughout the story: â€Å"Even with all the pain ad misery in the world, you can turn then into strength and achieve your goals.

A Literary Analysis of John Hersey Essay example -- Humanist Novelist

A Literary Analysis of John Hersey John Hersey was born in China. His parents were missionaries and raised him in a religious fashion.# His humanistic views were a product of this upbringing. After graduating from Yale, class of 1936#, he dabbled in the art of poetry.# Soon after, he advanced into writing novels. Thought to be one of the last civil writers,# Hersey wrote for Time magazine during World War II, in which he documented many historical accounts.# Hersey also worked under famous muckraker Sinclair Lewis#, whom from he probably obtained his "tell it how it is" writing style. Over the years he has been classified as an American novelist, non-fiction writer, short story writer, editor, and journalist.# John Hersey uses humanistic ideas, explicit detail, and governmental power to convey his story’s moral. After reviewing article after article, one can surmise that John Hersey is a pure humanist. A humanist in that, he is a person who cares about what we do to ourselves and a person who believes that all people are good. Some critics proclaim that Hersey only sees people in time of crisis and not how they really are, which contributes to a sort of bias on Hersey’s part.# In any case, his views are genuine and well rounded. Hersey uses his belief in the goodness of man to exhibit his humanistic ideas. John Hersey uses his belief in the goodness of man to show his humanistic ideas. Hersey feels all humans are good, which in many cases is not always true. Hersey demonstrates his humanistic idea of the goodness of man in Hiroshima. After the bomb is dropped on Hiroshima, there is almost complete devastation. However, Hersey portrays the few "healthy" survivors as all perfect humans. These "perfect humans" stop to help EVERYONE. This seems almost to good to be true. Many people would stop to help, but first priority to most people is themselves. Another example, where Hersey shows his belief in the goodness of man, is that all the people in Hiroshima are nice and almost care free. This could be because a nuclear bomb just exploded and the people are still in disbelief, or it could be another one of Hersey’s humanstic ideas. His views reflect these humanistic ideas because Hersey feels responsible towards society, and thinks everyone else should to.# This is why all the peo ple want to help dig others out and rebuild. They do it... ...elf of brilliant work, and we are all his beneficiaries." Footnotes are order on paper. Wiseman, Carter. A Life in Writing: John Hersey, 1914-1993. (http://www.yale.edu/yam/YAMarchives/Archiveswebsite/Arts/Hersey.html) October 1993. Date viewed: April 22, 2001, p.1 # Wiseman, p.1 # Ibid, p.2 # Ibid, p.5 # Anonymous, John Hersey. (http://jhhs.dis214.k12.il.us/aboutjhhhs/biography/biography.html) October 12, 1999. Date viewed: April 22, 2001, p.1 # Hart, James D. The Oxford Companion to American Literature. (New York: Oxford University Press, 1995) p.331 # Marowski, Daniel G. Contemporary Literary Criticism. vol 40. (Detroit: Gale Research Company, 1986) p.225 # Curly, Dorothy. Modern American Literature. vol 2. (New York: Frederick Ungar Publishing, 1969) p.84 # Wiseman, p.3 # Saucer, Mark. John Hersey. p. 2 # Commire, Anne. Something About the Author. vol 25. (Detroit: Gale Research Company, 1981) p.141 # Saucer, Mark. John Hersey. p. 3 # Curly, p.84 # Ibid, p.84 # Wiseman, p.1 # Bryfonski, Dedria. Contemporary Literary Criticism. vol 7. (Detroit: Gale Research Company, 1977) p.153 # Wiseman, p.4

The Mystery of Pearl in Hawthornes The Scarlet Letter Essay -- Scarle

The Mystery of Pearl in Hawthorne's The Scarlet Letter Among many nuances present in the novel, The Scarlet Letter, is the mystery of Pearl. This mystery is never actually in the real person of Pearl, but in the child she appears to be. At times, the townspeople and even Pearl’s mother, herself, call Pearl the demon-child, a fiend, and a torturer. Hester feels Pearl’s purpose on earth is to torture her but at the same time to be her joy. In reality, Pearl is a normal child, except for the fact that she is somewhat sealed off from the rest of the world. In the novel, Hawthorne makes it appear that Pearl is possibly an abnormal child. Chapter six is where he first discusses the child. In the sixth paragraph of that chapter, Hawthorne writes, "Pearl was a born outcast of the infantile world. An imp of evil, emblem and product of sin, she had no right among christened infants." Early on we see this powerful statement, which is supported by the rest of the novel. In chapter seven when Hester and Pearl are visiting the governor’s mansion, Hawthorne writes, "Pearl, in utter scorn of her mother’s attempt to quiet her, gave an eldritch scream, †¦ because the quick and mobile curiosity of her disposition was excited by the appearance of those new personages." This action of Pearl’s can hardly be seen as normal. Few children scream when meeting people, although many are a bit shy and stay close to their parents. One explanation, though, for this is that Pearl is not used to being around people. She had been shut off from the rest of the world because of her mother’s sin and doesn’t know that screaming around strangers isn’t normal. Pearl’s strange actions in various situations, such as at the governor’s mansion, is not the only t... ...rthy to have been left there, to be the plaything of the angels, after the world’s first parents were driven out. The child had a native grace which does not invariably coexist with faultless beauty; its attire, however simple, always impressed the beholder as if it were the very garb that precisely became it best." Although Pearl appears to be a demon-child, she cannot actually be a demon-child and be worthy of coming forth from Eden at the same time. Pearl can either be a normal child, or an abnormal one, not both. The mystery of Pearl is never in what she actually is because the people in the story are so caught up with Hester’s sin that they attribute the normal actions of a child to a devilish spirit. Had Hester been married to Arthur and given birth to the child, Pearl would have been seen by the people as the beautiful, innocent, and curious girl she was.

How Technology Transforms the Private and Public Realms

Jenny Tae English 100 Professor Nicole Pekarske I’m Sorry, What? Robert Samuels, â€Å"Breaking Down Borders: How Technology Transforms the Private and Public Realms. † Reading Popular Culture pages 9-12 I completely agree with this article that technology makes people oblivious to everything around us and be consumed in our own technology. This article portrays exactly what is becoming of the society with the progressing technological advances. Samuels explains how technology can be a barrier to the outside world, our surroundings, and even our loved ones. He explains his observations in the Borders Cafe and how the people are so tuned into their technology and there is barely little to any actual social interaction. He continues to say how anyone can make any public setting their own personal space filled with their technology and their business. I was especially interested and could relate to how he couldn’t even go on to the second page of his book because of a woman talking on her cell phone along with her computer turned on and a magazine on her lap. She’s oblivious to her surroundings and has made that table space her own personal office. Everyone around her learns how she had to cancel her appointment on Friday because of her loud phone conversation. Probably not knowing there were people around her she continues to loudly announce her schedule on her device. Some people might say that technology is a definite positive development with only positive changes. However, although the technological advance have been and is extremely helpful to everyone around the world, people need to think about how people can be too consumed in the technology that they can isolate themselves from the outside world even. Having fun with technology is normal, but we must not forget how to really communicate without the use of texting or email. Communicating face-to-face should be a key skill humans should never lose. The saying, â€Å"having too much of a good thing, can be bad,† is what comes to my mind when I think of technology. The progressing advancements in technology can be hurtful and turn into losing loved ones, with only your technology to console you. Many people don’t realize that having all of this technology is a privilege and they abuse it. Something Samuel said in this article really caught my eye, â€Å" With wireless technology, laptops and cell phones not only help us cross back and forth between the public and private, but they also function to determine the distinction between work and play. † (11) This quote really makes me think and caught my attention because I could relate so much and I’m sure many other students, even adults can say that they have done this at least once. We know that we have work to finish or something we have to do and need technology to accomplish it, yet our hands and eyes wander to personal interests and make us less productive. Technology tempts us to slightly or extremely go off track even though we know we have work to do. The way Samuel presents this problem in the article really shows people to stop and take a look at their personal lives and how much technology we consume ourselves with without even knowing how much we depend on it. He tells the reader how technology growing so rapidly results to us becoming less aware of our surroundings and can hurt loved ones around us. Have you ever had the experience of going out with your family or friends and they are constantly on their devices? Then when they’re not listening while you tell them a story, they go â€Å"I’m sorry, what? † That just makes the outgoing very dull and can make the other person even very upset. Although he/she is out with someone else, they are texting someone else. How about going to a public setting and seeing very young kids on their technological devices talking about web camming with each other and facebooking together. I see that everywhere to kids even young as 10 talk about facebook and twitter and texting 24/7. When I see that I remember how it was when I was a kid and remembering going outside with my friends and talking about how boys were gross. Now as technology grows faster it seems that young children feel that they are more grown than what their actual age is. Remember newspapers, magazines, and book? Who needs them if we can buy anything online onto our kindle, iphone, or laptop? Want to pay your bills? There’s a site were you can dot that. Anything these days can be found online and can be purchased online so we don’t even have to go to the store. Technology has given us the opportunity to become lazier and more content with just pushing one button and not moving from our seats. Technology also can be contributed to people exercising less which can result into the growing obesity rate of America. Technology is rapidly growing to make life more convenient, but we need to make sure that it does not damage and disrupt our personal lives. Being aware of our surroundings and still interacting socially is key. We cannot abuse all of the technology around us that is ever so changing. There are positive aspects to technology and how it has helped the world, however, the negative aspects outweigh the good. The negative aspects can be detrimental to society if people do not realize the damage technology can have if we let technology consume our lives.

Belief Fact Infer

There is this one belief that I feel strongly about and that is religion. I believe that it is important to have a religion. A religion where you can rely on, where in your faith is based on having belief towards God. Religion is a man’s expression of his acknowledgement of the divine. Throughout the ages and throughout the world, people have been baffled by the unknown and the mysteries of life for which they have no ready answer. As I look around and observe the magnificent things, I can really say to myself that how awesome is he who created the heavens and the earth.I can truly say to myself that there is someone up there, who is greater than us and omnipotent. There are times that I try to figure out things but the truth is I cannot fathom it; thus, that is how religion came in. But there is one thing that I have great doubts with, and that is if Religion is still important today as it was before? Are the religious convictions still present in this generation? Many people nowadays are much busier than before. They are too preoccupied with other things such as money, success, fame, treasures and material possessions.And even if they do not religiously go to church and have an established religion, they still manage to be so happy and successful. I really wonder why. And there are others who have an established religion, but live their lives with miseries. Is not it unfair? As we all know critical thinking is a process where in one carefully analyzes a certain situation that serves as a tool for something to achieve or to be done. Suppressing critical thinking is sometimes the effect of minding too much of other things and avoid getting so stressed out and pressured.Sleeping, eating, winding up and having fun are some of the methods used to suppress one’s critical thinking. Fact is the truth. A thing can be made a fact when it is being supported with theories, and evidence. A fact is real when it is already accepted by great theorist, scientist , sociologists and others and also backed up with tangible evidences. Yes, facts are open to subjective interpretation, since we have our own ways of conceiving things.Some of us do not accept established facts while others do. To infer means to prove, to display truth. No, I think it is not the same as fact. Because in fact, it is already made evident or true while to infer is to make something into a truth or a fact. There is still a process involved in it. For example; The student is asking their professor to infer that humans really came from apes; The student nurse is to infer that the reason why she was absent from her duty was due to her hospitalization.

Crooks monologue Essay

Ever since I came to this ranch to work here, on this rigid structured horse shoe shaped land I always dreamed, hoped and desired for one thing and one thing only! That one day I would have my own land, that one day I would have my own peace and privacy to myself without having to look after horses for the rest of my life. Don’t you think an old man like me would deserve such thing? An old man with a crooked crippled crunched back that has never been treated nice ever since he stepped into the ranch With so many people calling him names because of what colour he is, I bet you would. Ever since I was a little kid my childhood was a beloved and wonderful with my brothers, always accompanied with them just like a jigsaw puzzle when put together. I’ve always wanted to be equal to the others in the ranch. But I would never mix because of my colour it is almost like mixing the wrongs colours to the others in the ranch when painting a picture for your wall. Not letting me play activities with them, feeling lonely at all times can you imagine how annoying and pain staking that would be. Only activity they would let me play is the horse shoe game, bet you would get bored playing it for five minutes. Just imagine and old man like me with a dream of having a land where theirs peace and quiet where I’m free to do anything I want. Sit down and have a nice meal for god sakes, whenever I want without being interfered with those vicious idiots that have no feelings in their life’s what so ever. All the time I work I say to myself I wish, I just wish I could be with someone forever. And pursue that dream that feels it will never happen. Life on the ranch is hard, painful, feet blistering work especially when you’re looking after horses all day long, and what’s worse! Having a crippled back, doesn’t help one single bit and looking after the animal that did it to you, yes that’s right, got kicked by a horse long time ago leaving me in a devastated pain for the rest of my life. Not one day have I lived on that ranch without being interfered or called racist names about my skin colour, how does that feel inside, terrible doesn’t it, that’s how I feel right now. Every day I have to rub things onto my back to relieve the pain which doesn’t feel any better at all worst thing that makes me angry and annoyed is your privacy being invaded how would you feel if someone just walked into you while you were asleep, wouldn’t you feel annoyed and angry, bet you would, lennie that huge bastard walked into my private property while I was doing my own thing no knocks or permission just like that, as if you I was an animal in my hut. Every day I think to myself that I have been doomed to a life of loneliness and racist name calling. There is nothing much to do on this ranch other than working and living a sad life that you think inside yourself will never end. Back when I was a child I was living with a wonderful family that actually cared for me endorsed me, looked after me, and loved me. I also had an education unlike the stupid people living on the ranch not knowing what they say every time they talk and call me names that burns my heart into ashes, I was well educated had a father mother and brothers too. I was accompanied by them. Over here I’ve got no one to care for me other than lennie he is like a black brother to me not calling me racist names, actually talks to me expresses his feelings to me, he makes me feel like I’ve got a future that will come true one day, I’m in this lonely and terrible situation because of my race, yes that’s right you might think it’s something bizarre but actually this is what happens to me. At least I had someone to talk to ever since I stepped into this ranch, can you imagine how it would feel if you were isolated because of your bloody colour for god sakes! Wouldn’t it make you go crazy or maybe mental? Show preview only The above preview is unformatted text This student written piece of work is one of many that can be found in our GCSE John Steinbeck section.

Mexican society Essay

Mariano Azuela’s, The Underdogs, is full of characters that represent different sections of the Mexican society at the time of the Mexican Revolution around 1910 and each responds to the war according to their own circumstances and needs. The first such character is Demetrio Macias, a peace loving Indian, representing the poor peasants. His only interest is to protect what little he has. He is drawn into the revolution when he is being hunted by the soldiers of a political leader and he has to abandon his wife and child and watch the soldiers destroy his house. Demetrio responds by putting together a band of sharpshooting bandits who are wanted for various crimes they have committed At the start, Demetrio is full of noble ideas and wants to fight for the poor while taking from the rich, something like Robin Hood. The group is focused and meets with success. However as his group grows larger it becomes more difficult to control, because with each victory comes power and with that the demands. For instance, after each successful battle they feel justified in taking all girls above twelve years of age to â€Å"service† them. As time goes on, the rebels themselves forget what they are fighting for and start taking from the rich and poor alike Luis Cervantes, is a student portraying the educated middle class. He is captured by Demetrio’s men and manages to convince them that is a deserter of Huertas’ army and was actually trying to join them. He is unhappy with the treachery, and corruption in the Huertas’ army. The unnecessary meanness of the soldiers, rape, burning of homes, looting, torture, murdering of children. 1 Luis is a young man with ideals and a vision for the future. He believes that doing away with the crooked politicians will make Mexico a better place for everyone. While he imparts his wisdom on the bandits, some of them speculate if that is indeed what they are really all about, while majority just dreams about the booty the next town will bring. Luis’ unsuccessful attempts at conveying his insight to the bandits eventually cause him to change his direction and go in search of a business venture instead. The next characters we meet in the story are two women, who symbolize the role of the fairer sex in the Mexican war. First there is Camilla, who provides services such as cooking, or caring for the wounded. Although initially she comes across as a meek person, we see eventually that she is really a strong woman who has a major role to play in Demetrio’s life. Finally, there is â€Å"War Paint. † A very jealous and bold woman, who is always ready to rob anyone in her path. She uses sex to manipulate men and get what she wants. For example, at one point in the story Demetrio is ready to take her to a hotel after drinking heavily. She challenges his manhood by saying that a real man of his standing would find the best house in town, take it over by force if necessary and spend the night there. Thus, they spend the night in one of the best houses in town, and War Paint proceeds to rob it after entertaining Demetrio. It seems to me that the only person somewhat sincere with the revolution is Demetrio. After all he is the only one not willing to run away. He stands his ground and fights for what he believes in, despite the fact that the importance and force of revolution had lost its steam, and knowing in the end that he is outnumbered and will not survive. 1Cogan, Allan . The Underdogs (Los de Abajo): A Novel of the Mexican Revolution by Mariano Azuela. Retrieved from www. mexconnect. com

Lakeside Country Club tour report Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Lakeside Country Club tour report - Essay Example The Mansion forms the central part of the clubhouse even today. The house had three stories with 8 spacious rooms that faced the lake that was built by Mr. Mooers. The lake is presently known as the Pine Lake. Mr. Mooers sold the property to Ralph Rupley in 1946. Rupley became a charter member of the club. Mr. Rupley and his family immediately occupied the mansion, which was known, as the Pine Lake Farm until 1951. Mr. Rupley moved to a more appropriate residence in the city in 1951 when the Lakeside Country Club signed its charter. This brings us to the date when the club was founded; 1951.In 1952, the club bought additional acreage. This was intended for the construction of the original locker room wing, trap ranges, bathhouse, swimming pools and tennis courts. The Lakeside club has a complete scale of operations with 73 golf carts, which offers the club high level of revenue. For instance, a half million dollars of the total revenue is generated from renting the golf carts. In addition, the available teaching programs add up to the revenue collection. Some of the teaching program available includes the junior gold, women’s program and individual group lessons. On equal measure, the fee charged on members on the carts usage also contributes to the club’s revenue basket. For the case of employees, the Lakeside Club has 24 full time employees. The working time during weekdays is 6.00-2.00 and 5.00-10.00 during weekends. The Club’s source of water is the Buffalo bayou. The club always endeavours in maintaining it grass root system and on the side of wildlife; the club’s management has ensured sustainable protection of diverse species for a health environment and nature. However, the club management cites maintainin g the golf course weather condition as the hardest challenge. For instance, when the Hurricane Ike came it destroyed the club with water almost a half way

International business .....what relationship, if any exists between Essay

International business .....what relationship, if any exists between business processes and culture - Essay Example Business processes are therefore dependent on the culture within which the business operates which gives the business environmental acceptance and adaptability and therefore giving the business a performance measurement tool. Culture has in any case direct effect on implementation of projects hence their success or failure. Since process business projects require activities that are complex and cross-functional it follows that the success or failure of such projects lies in how the company and its stakeholders respect the shared values and beliefs. Culture tends to link the producer and the consumer at the market level through a mutual interaction and recognition of the values and beliefs shared between the producer and consumer of the product or service. It should be notable however that since consumer values and beliefs is exponentially elastic and depends on their perceived value of the product or service placed in the market it is for the companies to adjust the business process alongside the consumer national or global culture. It is therefore true to say that there is a strong relationship between culture and business process which is manifested at the meeting point in the market.

Meditation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Meditation - Essay Example There are different methods of meditation. To begin with, there is the concentrative meditation that entails focusing attention on an object until it becomes clearer (Jordt, 2007). In terms of the five senses, an object could be a sound, physical sensation, or a visual image. The most common object entails focusing on the natural physical process of breathing. This entails attending to calming sensations of breathing. A receptive meditation involves being open to the experience that arises out of focusing one’s attention on an object. For instance, a person may sit with the eyes open and observe one’s environment without thinking and judging. In reflective meditation, an individual turns one’s attention to a theme but becomes open to consequential experiences. Generative meditation, on the other hand, involves love and kindness. This involves the meditating person turning attention to oneself and others. These types of meditation grant significant benefits. To be gin with, it helps one’s thoughts become still. When the thoughts become still, a person can choose on a particular subject and reflect deeply upon it. This is because fuzzy thoughts that do not possess a given focus do not produce meaningful ideas. In addition, still thoughts ward off worry and anxiety. This consequently contributes towards happiness, as the person does not over-think. Zen meditation is a discipline of sitting down and calming both the body and the mind towards insight into nature. In this sense, the mediating person gains enlightenment.

Leadership and the Professional Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Leadership and the Professional - Essay Example And since we live in a free society, there are always opportunities for people to seek after a â€Å"career† instead of merely a dead end job. Also, because society tends to value them more, professionals are typically paid the most money and awarded the most respect in society. Using Plato’s â€Å"The Republic,† Darwin’s â€Å"Origin of the Species,† Lenin’s â€Å"What is to be Done,† and â€Å"The Rule of St. Benedict† as a guide, this essay will explore what it means to be a modern professional and the moral and ethical dilemmas that professionals (leaders) have to routinely deal with. Because professionals are regarded as experts in their fields, they are given greater authority within society and are viewed as leaders. It is a given that since we grant them this authority, they should use their influence wisely and be ethical and moral people in addition to having certain knowledge and skills. In other words, a professional should also strive to be a well-rounded person with a variety of positive character traits and skills. In â€Å"The Republic,† Plato referred to this type of person as a â€Å"philosopher-king.† Of course, all professionals are not kings, but his ideal of a philosopher-king can also be applied to any person who is in a significant leadership position. Plato refers to ideal leaders of the State and â€Å"Guardians.† He also discusses virtually all the important traits that a Guardian should possess. He believed that leaders should possess not only intelligence and wisdom, but also courage, moderation, and justice. Furthermore, he said that a leader should possess knowledge and reason to rule over baser desires such as desire for money, food, and pleasure. In addition to all these traits, he believed that a leader was one who should have the wisdom to realize what makes for a good life and what makes for a bad one. Still, this is not all Plato believes a leader should posses. He also believes they should have the right temperament; meaning they’re not vicious yet not passive either. Also, this type of person should have a proper education, which he defines as an education that teaches a person to be truthful and just. He also placed a great emphasis in teaching mathematics and, later in a person’s education; the study of philosophy was viewed as the most important subject. Additionally, Plato believed that leaders should stand out from the group as the most virtuous (380 BC). Plato’s views imply that only a select minority are capable of being leaders. While this is mostly true in today’s society, nearly everyone is capable of pursuing a professional career and therefore becoming a leader. Also, Plato was not speaking about leaders in a business sense, but more in a political leadership or â€Å"ruling class† sense. However, I believe the ideas he sets forth are relevant to the modern professional as well. After all, because a professional is seen as an expert, they are leaders and people who others look up to for advice and enlightenment. In our society, professionals are basically given the authority to manage or govern in their particular field. Therefore, it is important that these professionals are taught and trained in philosophy as well as in the technical aspec ts of their profession. If Plato’s Guardians (managers and leaders) are virtuous and just, it will lead to a more productive and happier society. It is interesting that, like Plato, we live in a Democracy but there is still a lot

Legal issues and concepts Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Legal issues and concepts - Essay Example The concept of malpractice was related to the medical profession in 1768 by Sir William Blackstone, who defined mala praxis or bad practice to include, "Injuries... by the neglect or unskillful [sic] management of [a person's] physician, surgeon, or apothecary... because it breaks the trust which the party had placed in his physician, and tends to the patient's destruction2." Tort law comes into play whenever one person harms another. Tort derives from a Latin word which means twisted. Therefore, a tort is an act that has been twisted from the benchmark or is in other words a wrong. The objective of the legal system in resolving torts is to restore the plaintiff to his previous condition; however this can prove to be impossible in many medical situations. If this is not possible, then money is awarded to compensate for the damages that the defendant caused the plaintiff. In the mid 19th century, physicians strived to obtain for medicine the status of a profession, arguing that physicians and patients were not peers and, hence their relationship should not be judged under the contract law. This change in status enabled medicine to obtain the licensing laws sought by physicians of the period. However, it also served to force malpractices into the sphere of torts, which are vaguer, easily manipulated and more subject to interpretation. A malpractice tort comprises of four criteria, first, duty to treat; second, deviation from the standard of care; third, damages; and finally, the causation of damages by the deviation, which is also known as proximate cause. Success in a malpractice action requires the plaintiff to establish that the defendant has met all the four criteria otherwise the defendant will not be held to be guilty of malpractice. Depending on the state, additional criteria might be required for allowing a case to go to a jury trial. The term duty refers to a duty to provide the standard of care, which is established when the physician patient relationship is created. It refers to the duty to show the required skill, care, and diligence that a prudent physician would have shown under similar circumstances. In the emergency department (ED), the physician and patient have no choice in choosing the relationship. The federal Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act (EMTALA)3 applies to EDs requires emergency physicians (EP) and hospitals to provide medical screening examination in all emergency cases, regardless of that person's paying capacity. Under EMTALA, ED and emergency medicine (EM) physicians have to provide care, whereas private practitioners need not do so. Since, EMTALA has unequivocally established the duty of a hospital and EM physician towards the patient, the premise of duty is an uncommon contention in EM malpractice cases. Causation in technical cases, like those involving medical practice can prove to be abstruse for a layperson. Further, confusion is caused by the differences between medical causation and the legal concept of causation. Legal causation or proximate cause refers to the single causative factor of injury. The defendant physician is liable for injuries if they had been of an anticipated nature. In Falcon v Memorial Hospital4, a woman after childbirth had an amniotic embolism and died due to non provision of an intravenous line, which according to the testimony, would have given her 37.5% chance to survive. The court held that this had resulted in the patient being deprived of a chance to survive

Should a College Education be Primarily Technical or Liberal Arts Essay

Should a College Education be Primarily Technical or Liberal Arts - Essay Example As an employer, delivering goods and services is dependent on revenue, not theoretical thinking. Yes, to a certain extent- understanding theories is quite pivotal, but it does not translate to direct revenue when no product of tangible goods is conducted. This type of mentality has hurt many students because they have failed to acquire necessary skills to be entered in the workforce. As a matter of fact, many high-end universities put students in debt but fail to teach them basic skills such as Microsoft Office. Based on a survey of several hundred employers, the report concluded that â€Å"Far too many young people are inadequately prepared to be successful.† This is even more critical regarding high school graduates who were deficient in such skills as oral and written communication, critical thinking and professionalism. As a technical student, I can attest to this because I feel that technical colleges provide double benefits as they teach these soft skills as well. When I visited a traditional four-year university in midst of making my decision, I was shocked to see that most students did not know how to utilize simple software for a criminal justice presentation. This changed my perception on how I approached education because I became more of an applicable thinking. To study for my tests, I actually began to watch videos in court room and read about popular issues trending in law forensics. My drastic approach truly was a true experience because I began to see the â€Å"overall picture† in confusing concepts. This similar perception is discussed in Pathways Ahead: Reform and Rigor and The Road to Pathways. This piece of literature is a great testament towards understanding the common issue that young... This essay declares that learning and memorizing knowledge is a fairly non-trivial challenge for the average American as it entails countless hours of drilling useless facts into one’s cognitive thinking. However, applying those concepts require specialized education and knowledge that must be harnessed. It is clear that business leaders are foreshadowing that specialized trade skill workers will be in shortage. This paper stresses that many high-end universities put students in debt but fail to teach them basic skills such as Microsoft Office. Based on a survey of several hundred employers, the report concluded that â€Å"Far too many young people are inadequately prepared to be successful.† This is even more critical regarding high school graduates who were deficient in such skills as oral and written communication, critical thinking and professionalism. many students lack the skills in a very competitive labor force,. In fact, the â€Å"forgotten half† challenge has deepened with the growing importance of post-secondary education to success in the labor market. The trend that has been emerging the modern years was the fact that more than half of the employment required an undergraduate degree. For instance, the average earning of workers with bachelor’s degrees were 65 percent higher than those of high school graduates. Technical students rectify this issue by allowin g students to have a more â€Å"hands-on† approach. These are skills that transferrable in any work environment.