Nothing Gold Can Stay Essay

The poem â€Å"Nothing Gold Can Stay,† by Robert Frost, uses a abcb rhyme scheme to cleverly explain natures downfall, due to gold, in the world. The author begins by showing that nature’s true color is green, however, due to man’s greed they only see gold. Being that nature supplied the earth with gold, man should respect it and give back. Instead the author depicts that nature is stripped of her importance and sad therefore the dawn goes down to day meaning instead of the weather staying beautiful, like it does in the morning, it turns to the hot, muggy afternoon. On the last line the author says, â€Å"Nothing gold can stay† (914), because mans inability to let go of greed is destroying our planet. The author also uses figurative language to reveal the poem’s meaning. In the beginning of the poem he personifies nature into a female so that the audience better understands natures pain and suffering due to humans greedy ways. Also, he uses imagery to paint the picture of the garden of Eden sinking to grief meaning that nature is in duress and even the first garden known to man is on the verge of destruction unless we change our ways. Lastly the author uses a metaphor comparing green to gold by saying â€Å"Natures first green is gold† (914), explaining that green is the symbol of life and prosperity. For example money is green and when nature is described green typically comes to mind. But he says gold is the first green because all humans care about is gold and as a result they are giving it greater importance than nature, our source of life.

Wilmot Proviso

It could be said that the American Civil War was brought on by Americans need to expand its territories and the one sided Mexican War. The whole debate or controversy over this expansion was David Wilmot’s (and his squad of backers: Hamlin, Brinkerhoff, and King) trying to implement the Wilmot Proviso into the funding for the Mexican territories we acquired. The proviso actually fueled the debate over slavery into the newly acquired territories by trying to make the territories slave free acquisitions. The Wilmot Proviso was a simply desire to make newly acquired territories free from slavery.As pointed out in the opening of this discussion however, banning slavery in these territories was a mute point in the fore front. So what impact did the Wilmot Proviso have on the debate over slavery in America? It actually seemed to create a debate were one did not actually exist. The debate or desire to ban slavery was created by Democratic House members (anti-slavery members) who were afraid that the Whig party would spin the War with Mexico into their desire to expand slavery. [1] So the very party that supported slavery issues had the desire to ban slavery in the new territories anyway.Although these few anti-slavery Democrats did not represent the whole, the desire was there and they wanted the territories to be free. Given, this move was to keep the Whig party from making the accusations that the Democrats were moving to expand the real estate for slavery. McPherson, Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era, even points out that Congressman from the northern states tried to enact a proviso banning from the territories acquired by a war in which two-thirds of the volunteer soldiers had come from slave states. General Taylor was a slaveholder but opposed the expansion of slavery when he became president. 2] McPherson examines the irony of this fact as well as many other ironies that were to do with the Mexican War and the Civil War.Another point that McPherson makes is that the men won the Mexican War because of the marksmanship and elan of their mixed divisions of regulars and volunteers and above all because of the professionalism and courage of their junior officers. Yet the competence of these men foreshadowed the ultimate irony of the Mexican War, for many of the best of them would fight against each other in the next war. 3] This is pretty powerful stuff that McPherson is feeding us, pointing out the fact that nearly the same group of men who fought the Mexican War would face one another again during the Civil War. The fact that they were so successful in the first led them to face one another in the second partly due to the Wilmot Proviso and other factors that revolved supposedly around the slavery issue. Taking a different avenue of approach on the supposed fact that slavery and the Wilmot Proviso was the cause and sole factor of the Civil War.During and in the heat of the Wilmot Proviso debate, many southern lawmakers began to question the right of Congress to determine the status of slavery in any territory. According to John Calhoun, the territories belonged to all the states. Why should a citizen of one stated be denied the right to make his property, including slave, into territory owned by all? This line of reasoning began to dominate the southern argument. [4] So here now enters the government encroaching on the rights of the southern states and overreaching its authority to tell them what they could and could not do in their territories.So, although slavery was the catalyst, the southerners began to turn the whole issue into â€Å"rights† issue that revolved around properties. The federal government began meddling in the rights of the states to govern its domain. So the fact that the Wilmot Proviso was trying to govern who and who â€Å"could not† have slaves was a violation of the state’s rights. The issue moved from one of abstraction to one involving practical matters. The n ature of the Constitution, slavery, the value of free labor, political power, and ultimately political realignment were all involved in the debate. 5] The southerners started to become enraged at the fact they were being told what to do and how to do it. So what was the impact of the Wilmot Proviso on the debate over slavery in America? Some would say that the Wilmot Proviso is one of the top five reasons or causes for the Civil War and I might have to agree with that as well. In my opinion, the proviso just fueled the fire on the slavery debate simply due to the fact that it was pointless in the sense they were trying to impose a ban on in area that would have not really benefited from the use of slaves anyway.The areas of Texas, Arizona, and California were not geographic areas where slaves would have made a great deal of difference anyway so the proviso was pointless to them. The proviso was trying to impose a ban on slavery in areas where there was to be little need for slaves a nyway. So the proviso was just a platform to them to impose slavery bans in the south and expand their agenda on the issue. The southern states saw the proviso as an insult to the Southern states and their stand on slavery.Of course, I do think they were moving in the right direction from a humanitarian standpoint they were going about it the wrong way. The debate should have been over the constitutionality of the issue all together and the rights of all men/women. They even entertained the thought of popular sovereignty but that would just have let the issue as is because the southern states would have left it like it was and the northern states would have moved to abolish it all together. Let us not forget that the southern states were not the only areas that possessed slaves.The northern states and citizens did indeed possess slaves in large numbers and many of the politicians pushing the issue of banning it were slave owners themselves. So, in a hypocritical fashion, they were p reaching one thing and practicing another. This could not have been favorable to their standpoint at all. Sounds a lot like our politicians today and the way they practice government of late. The point made and known today is that slavery was wrong, inhuman, and unjust and we know that today. The reasons or thought process they used then to justify what they were doing boggles the mind and makes you wonder.It should have been made law without question and the Wilmot Proviso was a move towards that fact. The only ones that were offended or involved were the ones that were practicing this and most of those were wealthy farmers and beau crates and the most common of people could have cared less.[1] http://blueandgraytrial. com/event/Wilmot_Proviso [2] James McPherson, Battle Cry of Freedom: The Civil War Era. Oxford Press 1988, p. 4 [3] Ibid, p. 4 [4] www. ushistory. org/us/30b [5] Michael F. Holt, The Political Crises of the 1850 s. 1978, p. 50

Research Methodology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words - 4

Research Methodology - Essay Example 75). Descriptive research explores and describes phenomena based on real-life situations. It helps provide new information about a topic which has not been completely explored. It describes concepts and relationships and provides more data from which more quantitative research can be conceptualized (Punch & Punch, 2005, p. 75). Correlational research on the other hand examines the relationship between two of more variables and determines if the relationship is negative or positive. A positive correlation means that the variables vary together and they either increase or decrease together; for negative correlation, variables vary in opposite directions or have an inverse relationship (Punch & Punch, 2005, p. 75). Quasi-experimental researches seek to determine the cause and effect relationships of independent and dependent variables. A treatment is usually implemented in this research and the effects are reviewed using selected methods of measurement (Trochim, 2006). Finally, experime ntal research is the type of research which helps to establish cause and effect of phenomenon (Davis, 1997). The causality between variables is tested here under highly controlled conditions. The quantitative research has its strengths and weaknesses. It is advantageous because its methods are quantifiable, reliable, and applicable to a larger population (Weinreich, 2006). It also states the problem in specific terms and clearly specifies the independent and dependent variables being reviewed (Weinreich, 2006). It also follows the original research goals and comes up with objective conclusions and results, thereby ensuring reliability of data from controlled observations and mass surveys. Quantitative research also eliminates and minimizes the subjectivity of judgments. Finally, it allows for a longitudinal assessment on the ensuing performance of subjects (Matveey,

Help me make a topic Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Help me make a topic - Essay Example is book with the chapter explaining how a farmer gets shot in Africa by a gunman of another tribe, for his cattle herd, and any other resources that he might be keeping. Globalization is driven by economic motives, economic globalization is the largest aspect of the entire globalization phenomenon. Trans-nationalized capital goods, services IT and manufacturing, all are governed by the economics of globalization. And throughout history, economic globalization has been mainly driven by four major factors (Aina, Chachage & Yao 18), the collapse of social regimes all over the world, hyperactivity of Multinational Corporations (MNCS), the IT revolution, and market reforms (Aina, Chachage & Yao 18). The market reforms were set in the Structural Adjustment Programs (SAP) background, especially designed for the third world countries. The main agenda was to ensure the state decontrol over the economic resources and social policy space (Aina, Chachage & Yao 24). Such were the main aspects of economic integration and globalization in the 90s. Africa is the poorest continent in terms of providing social services (Aina, Chachage & Yao 30). Education and social security aside, situation in many African countries is worse; to this day, Africa is still deprived of basic necessities of life like clean water and food. Post-colonial Africa strives for better living standards, life security is one of them. Tribal wars and killings, regional mafias and their merciless armies pose a serious threat to the prosperity of the African nation. The 2006 movie Blood Diamond by Edward Zwick is a fantasy movie based on facts. The blood diamonds in the movie refer to the diamonds that are illegally sold in the market. The labor that finds them is enslaved, and they work day in day out with the fear that if they don’t work, they will be put to the most brutal punishments. I find it relevant to mention the movie as it depicts the darkest side of Africa and it does show how modern

Gothenburg Disco Fire Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2750 words

Gothenburg Disco Fire - Research Paper Example The research included the methodical, participants, equipment, procedure, results, argument and recommendation to the issue. The consequences and outcomes of the Gothenburg disco fire such as death, injuries, and damaged properties are critically analyzed. Moreover, the government had to act and protect the sovereignty and image of Sweden to the rest of the world by taking legal measures to solve the problem. A prosecution on the individuals who were suspected to hold the main responsibility of the inferno was carried out. The number of the guilty and innocent suspects is mentioned and the charges imposed on them. This unit will discuss on a research about the causes of Gothenburg Disco Fire, the consequences of the inferno, and the criminal prosecution on the suspects. The fire was believed to have started on the third flour of the premises of the Macedonian organization, in which the high school students had organized a disco party to celebrate Halloween. According to relevant sources, it is believed that the fire was intentionally started on the stairway facing the emergency exits (Klingsch, 2010). This was the leading cause of the innumerable death causalities, since the emergency exist was not used because of the fierce fire set up. Consequently, there was only one small exit door that did not allow the students escape easily (Klingsch, 2010). The victims were trapped inside the disco hall because of a jam at the door; hence, having no way to pass. The confident youths who did not want to be burnt by the fierce fire opted to jump to save their lives through the windows. The window was estimated to be 5 meters high, making it a challenge to some youths who feared height. It is believed that the fire security was pitiable on the ground, since th ey failed to perform their part adequately despite the fact that they had acted promptly by coming scene early.

Clinical immunology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Clinical immunology - Essay Example The allergen specific test is conducted using IgE antibodies which are found in mucous membranes, lungs and even the skin. The skin prick test on the other hand is external and more of an observation of the skin’s reaction to the allergens therefore house dust termites allergen cannot be detected through it (Sicherer,2012). Question 3 The major allergens in milk are casein and whey which are the components of milk that trigger reaction with the IgE. In peanut, there is the Ara h1 which is contained in the cotyledon and looks like vicilin (Tan , Lebeck & Nehlsen-Cannarella , 2012). Peanut and tree nuts may both test positive to a test but this does not necessarily mean that the said person is allergic to both since there are false positives. This means the child can test positive but still eat the food without having any problem. It is a kind of seed storage that triggers the reaction with IgE. In eggs, there are the ovamucoid and ovalbumin which have been identified as the maj or allergens, there are lesser ones. These two are found in the egg white (Bellanti, 2011). Question 4 Th-2 cells triggers the activation of mast cells, B cells and eosinophils that produce IgE antibodies. Th-2 produces IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-13 and it also regulates eosinophil and B cell mediated responses. IL-17 is a group of cytokines that support inflammation that are produced by activated memory cells. This cytokine takes part in the creation of an immunological response that is dependent on Th-2 cells. This happens through the introduction of cytokines derived by Th-2 (Tan, Lebeck & Nehlsen-Cannarella, 2012).This is supported by the inflammation of the eosiniphil. The characteristics of response induced by different IL-17 all comes down to their structure. These differences therefore determine their functions biologically. Question 5 Histamine is organic and also a nitrogen compound that is normally involved in immune responses and it also regulates the physiological functions o f the gut. It activates inflammatory response when it acts as a neurotransmitter. Basophils produce histamine and by studying their release assay, the physician is able to determine the main allergy/asthma.PGD2 binds to receptor PTGDR and CRTH2; it is produced by mast cells and is very critical when it comes to the development of asthma and other allergic diseases. This makes it an important aspect when treatment of an allergy victim is done. The release assay can show the intensity of the allergy hence helping the physician determine the best medication or therapy. Eosinophil Cationic Protein can also be called ribonuclease 3 and is related to allergies because when an allergic reaction occurs, there number of ECP in the body rises significantly especially in areas with inflammations. Question 6 Hygiene hypothesis states that when one is not exposed to infectious agents at an early childhood stage, their chances of being susceptible to allergic diseases since the development of the ir immune system is suppressed hence making them have an immune system that can barely defend the body (Tan , Lebeck & Nehlsen-Cannarella , 2012).The polarized response by Th1 is not introduced to the system early enough

Lochgelly Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

Lochgelly - Essay Example ve on the economy of Fife, the costs of the project and the long-term benefits of such a project, the effectiveness of a front end development process which has been recommended, and finally the report s attempts to make useful recommendations regarding the scope of improvement of the developmental housing project in Lochgelly. The report covers the main factors which have helped to create the decision of the stakeholders with respect to the strategic housing development initiative in Scotlands Lochgelly. The National Planning Framework for Scotland has identified that the region of Scotland called Fife has tremendous potential for housing development. Not only is the place connected to Dundee and Edinburgh, the region is expected to have a huge population growth is coming 20 years. Exactly, about 11% growth in population is expected by the year 2031. Therefore, the General Register Office has made a plan where it requires more than 35,000 new homes to be built in the next 20 years. Since Lochgelly is a place located in Fife which is expected to be one of the hotbeds of developments in Fife, it is quite natural that the stakeholders would be having a lot of interest in housing projects in Lochgelly. Although Lochgelly was very well developed prior to 2004, after the coal mines closed, the town saw a decline in population and economic growth. The town has links with the roads in the south; it is also connected to by train tracks to Dundee and Edinburgh. On the side of the town, there are vast stretches of natural beauty. The structure Plan of 2006-2026 by the Fife Board has identified land locations in Lochgelly for building 1750 houses within the next 20 years. This development project will not only improve the economic condition, but it will also improve the job opportunities in the town of Lochgelly. During a housing development project, the engagement of stakeholders is of prime importance. The standards and structure plan has provided framework for the

Pediatric radiography discussion Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Pediatric radiography discussion - Case Study Example age receptor is then placed on the holder mount and the device is able to rotate the image in the posterior and the anterior positions without actually moving the child. The digital version has the image recorded in the flat panel detector, hence it does not require a cassette holder. When stockinettes are used, they are to be made in a tubular manner. The device comes in various sizes, where the 3 inch one is recommended for the small infants, whereas the 4 inch one is recommended for larger children. The device should be doubled and placed on the patient’s arms to cover the arms up to the shoulders. A part from being used to immobilize the arms, it is also used to act as a pillow. There are several types of gentle tapes that are used for surgical and immobilization procedures and sensitive skins. Adhesive tapes should not be used as it may show on the radiograph and create artifact that could obscure the anatomic parts of interest. Some patients also have a reaction to the adhesive tape. Adhesive tapes can also injure the fragile skin of the infants. Therefore, the tape should be twisted so that the adhesive surface is not against the skin. Gauze pads can also be placed between the skin and adhesive tape so that the ape is used effectively. Most of the sandbags are used as weights or immobilization devices for bigger children. These bags should be made specifically for immobilization of pediatric patients so as to be effective for this purpose. A strong canvas type material and children’s coarse sterilized playing sand should be used. The coarse sand is usually recommended so that, in case the bag can break open, the sand becomes more easily cleaned up, hence the chances of causing artifacts on the radiograph s are minimized. Two sandbags are recommended, but the sandbags should not be overfilled with sand since this will make the bag stiff. The bag needs to be pliable enough to mold to the part when placed on the child’s limb. During pediatric

Le Corbusier's Toward's a New Architecture and Adolf Loos' Ornament Essay

Le Corbusier's Toward's a New Architecture and Adolf Loos' Ornament and Crime - Essay Example nt roles in the transformation of the conception of art and architecture, the dawning of a new age in styles and composition, making a mark in the discipline of architecture. In this paper, we will discuss and compare the similarities in the theories of Loos exhibited in â€Å"Ornament and life† to that of Le Corbusier’s â€Å"Towards a New Architecture†. We will discuss in specific, the most influential theory presented by Le Corbusier, in â€Å"eyes which do not see† in comparison to Adolf Loos’ â€Å"Ornament and Crime†, both relating to the need to emphasize the role of purpose or utility of an architectural structure and the absence of ornaments. The interesting aspect of the comparison between Loos and Corbusier lies in the two common vies they shared. On the one hand, the work of both is concerned with the autonomy of architectural means; on the other, both try, each in his own way, to place his work in a context, something which each makes particularly clear in his writing. (Risselada, Loos and Beek, 1). In Corbusier’s reading of â€Å"eyes which do not see†, he begins with explaining the need to see the connection between architecture and the new machine age, implying that architecture must focus not on art but on needs and functionality. He explains this aspect by comparing the evolution of architecture to the evolution of a car. In the beginning, the sole purpose was transportation, later began to give importance to durability, resistance and such. Further, they went on to incorporate luxury and style on having attained the basic necessity. With the lapse of time, appearance and luxury began to delude people and the main aspects were given less importance, as if resistance and durability were aspects that were to be sidelined. He believes that architecture has taken that direction, competing in beauty and magnificence, while failing to address purpose. This may be easily compared to the view of Adolf Loos in â€Å"Ornament and Crime†, where he

Sustainable Practise journals Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Sustainable Practise journals - Assignment Example In the context of value, the journal has provided five major efforts that have a major influence on individuals shaping their sustainable position. In this regard, the five major attributes include the historical chronology, taxonomy of sustainable developmental goals, the earth charter, millennium declaration, and continuous transitional scenario of the global environment. These efforts are the core factors in terms of setting trends towards sustainable development of values, attitudes and behavioral traits of each human being across the overall natural ecosystem (Leiserowitz et al., 2004). According to my understanding, I would like to mention that historical chronology along with different transitional stages is the core factors shaping attitude and behavioral skills of individuals. I believe that the changes in developmental goals are often influenced by different chronological facts. Moreover, I think that the severe changes in development of a global economy along with socio-cu ltural aspects also have a major influence on building effective behavioral skills and attitude for long term sustainability. In relation to the present day context, different scholars have provided numerous definitions and have described the impact of major factors that have a profound influence on shaping human attitude and behavioral skills over the various transition stages. In addition, the increasing pace of globalization along with the unabated fluctuation of the socioeconomic and political trends also has a similar impact towards changing the attitude and behavioral skills of the individuals (Rogerson et al., n.d.). With respect to the view of the scholars, I conjure that changing cultural aspects in terms of conserving continuous development in the living standards along with the unabated external forces are few of the key driving forces behind the major changes in the individuals’ attitude and

Gender Differences in Advertisements Essay Example for Free

Gender Differences in Advertisements Essay It has been evident for the past decades that advertisers still use stereotyped images of men and women in their advertisements. This can say that the pursuit for equality is still not grasped by the society. The images we see in magazines, in televisions, in billboards portray a very old perception of gender, especially the inferiority and submissive nature of women, with their bodies used as mere sexual objects, if not, still used as household caretakers. Women are also deemed to be beautiful if they have slim bodies, fair complexion and long shiny hair. Men, on the other hand, are portrayed to be strong, dominant and successful in their careers. For this essay, I will be showing two examples of images, which reveals the still existing gender inequality. I will be referring to some themes and issues to support my arguments. Also, for my basic analysis of advertisements, I will be using Katherine Frith’s [1998] approach in â€Å"Undressing the Ad: Reading Culture in Advertising† [Lukas, 2002]. It includes a surface meaning, the advertiser’s intended meaning, and the cultural or ideological meaning. For the semiotic level, which connotes the social themes in advertisements, I will be applying Erving Goffman’s [1979] approach in â€Å"Gender Advertisements. † For the first example, I will use the Gucci Magazine advertisement as shown in Figure 1 in the appendix. Just by looking at the picture, you can already see that there is gender inequality. Before dwelling into that, I will first apply a basic analysis of the ad. 1. The Surface Meaning It can be seen that there are two subjects in the picture. It is very evident that one is female, while the other one can be assumed to be male. It is because of its masculine features, as seen in the upper body though the face was not explicitly shown. The female is down on the floor, touching the shoes of the male. She is wearing a sexy gold dress. The male is standing, wearing only khaki pants. Both clothing are assumed to be under the brand, Gucci. The setting is in the desert and the overall appeal of the image is very earthy. There are no words or taglines in the ad, just â€Å"Gucci†. 2. Advertiser’s Intended Meaning The advertiser might be showcasing the earthy tones and summer styles of Gucci, as seen in the very comfortable and breezy clothes the subjects are wearing. There is still a certain class in the style, whether you put them in the dessert or just wherever. 3. Cultural or Ideological Meaning The picture obviously depicts the dominance of males over females. To be more detailed, we use Goffman’s approach by taking into consideration the social themes being depicted here. The positioning of the subject explicitly exposes gender bias. The man is standing while woman is down on floor. It just shows that men are in control and have power over women. The woman is way below under his legs, at his feet to be exact. She is even touching his shoes. It reminds me of a servant, wiping the dirt of his master in the desert. The woman here really looked inferior and if we extend the picture upward, exposing the face of the man, it can be that he is looking down on her, seeing the contraction of his abdomen in the picture. Moreover, such display of abs connotes a very masculine and strong appeal. We know that men who have well developed abs are the ones who are the most physically fit. The woman on one hand is thin and sexy, with her body parts, especially the legs and the cleavage, generally exposed. Reexamining the â€Å"Nature/Culture† Paradigm, we are reminded of the â€Å"vertical† perspective, which organizes the relationships of male and female [Tilleuil, 2002]. The woman is labeled as the dominated and the man is labeled as the dominant. According to the sociologist, Claude Herne, â€Å"In the advertising image, in order to make the woman feel inferior, signs multiply and underline the weakness, the lack of self-confidence, fragility, hesitation, dissimulation, submission, childishness and infantilization, too. [Tilleuil, 2002]. This signs are very well depicted in this ad. The woman looks fragile, and she displays a look of submission in her eyes, like a slave. This leads us to another example of an advertisement, which now depicts heavy violence to women. The ad to be examined here is figure 2 of the appendix. It is an ad from Dolce and Gabbana. 1. The Surface Meaning In the ad, there are six subjects. There are five males and one female. It looks like they are in a rooftop of some resort/hotel. Some men are wearing fitted Polos, while others are half naked. Their skins are very shiny. It looks like there’s oil or sweat in them. One man is on top of the woman, while others are watching intently to the scene in the middle. The woman is lying down on the floor, wearing a sexy black dress and high heels. 2. Advertiser’s Intended Meaning The advertiser here is showcasing the sexy formal styles of Dolce and Gabbana, with their breezy polos, classy dresses. It looks like the clothing is part of their summer collection. 3. Cultural or Ideological Meaning/Goffman’s approach It is very evident in the picture that the scene is depicting a â€Å"gang rape†. This is extreme sexual violence right at your eyes. Such violence is even portrayed in classy way, with the clothing of Dolce and Gabbana at display. We look back to the inferiority and submissiveness of the woman here. The woman is again down on the floor, but this time, she is lying down, about to be raped by the first guy on top of her. But we also see here that they are being watched by other men. One of them is already topless, while, one is semi-buttoned, with his chest exposed. There is also one who is only wearing a sleeveless undershirt, while the last guy is still fully dressed up. They all have this sultry look to the woman. The woman here is about to give herself to the man, with her hips going upward. Yet, you can see that the man is locking her arms in the floor, and it looks like she cannot get away with his grasp. The woman has been the subject of sexual pleasure. Violence here is part of the pleasure package. As we have been exposed in the media, we can recall about the whipping, the slapping of women, their being tied up to different places, exposing a lot of skin, with their bodies being molded to different erotic positions. In most cases women are victims of such violence, since men being tied up would not be a delightful sight for them. Overall, as seen in most advertisements, women are always the weaker player, being taken advantaged of men, who are more superior. Women are still being depicted as mere objects of sexual desire [Sharabi, n. d. ]. Women are seen only as domestic providers, who do not have their own decision making powers. According to the blog of â€Å"Daughter of Liberty† [2007], she said that the following are some important points to take note in advertisements: 1. Canting It can be seen through the body language that women are submissive and they have low self-confidence. For our examples, it is explicitly shown with the woman on the floor, with no control. 2. Clowning It can be seen that women are usually posed like an innocent child in the ads, which connotes ignorance (stupidity perhaps) and practically it tells us that women are easily dominated. 3. Dependence Women are seen to be very dependent to men, which can be particularly found in the first advertisement, where the woman is touching the shoes of the man. 4. Dismemberment Dismemberment is described as focusing on a particular body part. However, for our first example, it was the man who was dismembered. 5. Dominance/violence This is evidently seen in both of our examples, especially in the Dolce and Gabbana ad, which depicts a gang rape. I think ads these days have become more violent and more associated to sex than ever before, due to change of perception of our society. Sex and violence is not a taboo anymore, and we can just openly discuss those issues in a coffee table. However, being a more open society must teach us to be less discriminating and degrading. Women and men were created equally. More ads should focus on empowering women, like what is happening in Dove. We must not let ourselves, especially our children to be exposed to such violence because images convey very powerful images and it can impact one’s behavior.

A Report On Managing Across Cultures Management Essay

A Report On Managing Across Cultures Management Essay The new wave of internationalisation and globalisation demands that businesses operate across the globe promoting the exchange of trade investment emigrations and the like. To remain competitive businesses must be equipped to operate across the globe which invariably means across different cultures. Consequently, adequate measures creating the right environment to conduct business successfully across the different cultures of the world in this new age is definitely imperative. The following report briefly attempts to address these recurrent inadequacies that often derail lucrative global business endeavours by trying to highlight a simple structure of initial planning, followed up by proper positioning and the final execution that can serve to assist in the management of the people that are the driving force that engineer businesses across the different cultures of the world. The methodology employed in collating this report from introduction to conclusion was via research into provided materials to decipher the required data and information that could allow the required findings emerge to shed light on more information on managing across cultures with a view contribute to this predominate predicament. INTRODUCTION Managing, it can be stated, is simply the process of directing, organising or controlling in a desired way, while culture, in very broad term is the way of life of people characterized by, amongst others things, their behaviour, beliefs and traits. The aim of this report on à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“Managing Across Culturesà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚  is to identify and explain some best practices that can be applied by managers in business when managing cross-cultural staff. It is by no means an exhaustive account of all the practices that can be applied when dealing with cross-cultural staff. The term cross-cultural staffs, simply implies staff that come from different cultural backgrounds. In this report three key stages will be used to signify the vital processes required in managing across cultures. These stages are as follows: (1) Innovation, (2) Preparation and (3) Implementation. These stages follow each other sequentially in the management of cross cultural staff and there is an attempt to show a correlation between all three stages whilst discussing the guiding principles involved in each stage. The research is sourced from renowned online academic books, journals, blogs and newspaper articles provided by the resident librarian at the university of Bedfordshire Luton park square campus Peter Godwin. Finally due to adherence to strict word limitation set for the report the explanations at each stage of the key guiding principles and application of given theories are reasonably concise but still effective. FINDINGS 1. Innovation The original convention that all management ideas and principles being generated from the core albeit suggestions from all other parts that make up the entire management chain is now proving less tenable when it comes to managing cross cultural staff successfully. Morden day practices now call for contributions from different parts of the management chain to put together ideologies that will apply adequately to cross cultural staff. There are two forms of management ideologies: Cultural control and Bureaucratic control, practiced by multinational businesses that manage cross cultural staff on a regular basis, with the cultural control being more successful than the bureaucratic control (Berry et al, p. 381). The former, on the one hand, involves the use of trained managers sent from the headquarters of the business to different locations to manage staff with policies modified to suit the local cultures of these locations. A good illustration of this managing ideology is presenting the text of company policy in the local language or languages where the company is located. For example, an English or American multinational company located in France will present the text of the company policy and all other correspondence to staff in French language though the original communiquÃÆ' © to the manager may be sent in English language. The latter, on the other hand, involves issuing guidelines for all aspect of staff a ctivities from the headquarters to all the branches of the business at different locations where managers are expected to manage staff with policies based on these guidelines. However, it should be noted that from surveys conducted, although the bureaucratic control model is more cost effective than the cultural control model in the short term, the latter will stand the company in good stead in terms of productivity, profits and staffs turn over in the long term (Berry et al, p. 381). There are other management ideologies that stem from propositions of convergence, divergence and the culture specific theories (Vecchi and Brennan 2009, p. 151). The convergence proposition supports the position that in a global age managers of cross-cultural staff adopt successful practices of their colleagues that manage other cross cultural staff to attain a high level of quality management, a practice that will work positively for cross cultural management in conjunction with the cultural control pattern of management. The divergent proposition that stands negatively against cross cultural management being more akin to bureaucratic control pattern seeks to support the position that maintaining one basic national management practice as prescribed from the central controlling body thereby disregarding the inputs of local cultures. The culture specific proposition serves to illustrate the significant influence of culture on management practices when managing cross-cultural staff. When this proposition is applied using Geert Hofstede (1980) five cultural dimensions as a comparative index, it is revealed that managers are able to appreciate the different responses of cross cultural staff based on the nature of the cultural frame work that could be either power distance, individualist, masculine, uncertainty avoidance or long term orientation. Accordingly, based on the above principle an analogy of staff from a culture with a comparatively higher power distance index may share a less cordial relationship with the manager than staff from lower levels of this cultural dimension (Vecchi and Brennan p.151). Staff from an individualist culture may tend to work better alone on most tasks while those from collectivist cultures may tend to perform better in a group. Masculine cultures may produce staffs that are target focused while feminine cultures may produce staffs that are customer centred. Those from cultures with high uncertainty avoidance will tend to be more emotional and structured in their actions while those from low uncertainty avoidance may tend to be more spontaneous and adapt quickly to change. The staff from cultures with long term orientation may tend to be tenacious and prudent while those from short term orientation may tend to be more retentive of habitual values and commitments. 2. Preparation The preparation process that is borne out of the management innovations comprises of cross cultural training. This practice follows naturally as the second step when operating a management ideology of cultural control with a convergence type attitude taking cognisance of the cultural framework of your cross cultural staff. The training is required for every employee to prepare them for their future cross cultural environments. The training of the staff can be conducted through a computer based interactive programme that each staff is mandated to take individually, a successful scheme that Accenture have conducted with relative success (Murray, 1985). Also, the training can take the form of re-enactments of actual culturally sensitive scenarios that have occurred in the work place by professional artists to heighten their effect with a view to correcting what ever misconstrued notions, attitudes and behaviours that the employees may have developed as a result of this cultural misunderstanding. This training pattern was successfully conducted by Lehman Brothers (Murray, 1985). There are other patterns of training involving, spontaneous on the spot addressing of cross cultural incidents born out of cultural misunderstanding that occur within the work environment. This training solution has been successfully deplored by a London based inter-cultural training consultancy, Future Considerations (Murray 1985). The training of managers to apply western styled management techniques to others cultures and vice versa (Berry et al, p. 383). The personal and impersonal domain patterns of leadership techniques include technocratic and charismatic leadership and participative leadership, team work and reward schemes respectively. The personal domain will be easily appreciated by cultures that are of low power distance index, uncertainty avoidance and long term orientation but are individualist and masculine, while the impersonal domain will appeal more to cultures that are of the reverse. 3. Implementation The implementation process of actualizing the foregoing stages also follows naturally from the preparation stage. At this stage, all employees,à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ managers and staff inclusive are encouraged to put the training brought about by the ideologies into practice to reflect the desired management direction. The idea of cultural collaboration, it has now been discovered, to be the end result of innovative management ideologies reinforced through inter cultural training. A simple illustration can be drawn from an exercise where an anthropologist observing staff of a company with cross cultural staff who regularly meet in a designated section of their office that was scheduled for reorganisation that would relocate certain furniture that the staff had cause to deliberated over thereby individually expressing their ideas on work related issues borne out of their cultural background that usually led to positive results arrived at harmoniously. Based on the advice of the anthropolo gist, the furniture was not relocated instead more designated sections were created in other sections of the company to promote cultural collaboration amongst cross cultural staff (Marrewijk, 2009). The idea of cultural collaboration as a positive tool in management across cultures cannot be over emphasised because it creates a harmonious environment where acceptance of cultural diversity can thrive without reprove. CONCLUTION In this report, the focus has been on an attempt to present key stages that are by no means exhaustive or independently distinctive, involved in the process of managing across cultures in a concise and effective way. As a result, three stages: innovation, preparation and implementation were identified. The innovation stage is where the ideologies on cross-cultural management are formulated, the preparation stage is where these ideologies are developed and the implementation stage is where these developed ideologies are manifested. In sum, innovation leads to developed ideologies and the result: desired better successful management across cultures and of cross-cultural staff.

Opportunities And Challenges For Wal Mart In India Marketing Essay

Opportunities And Challenges For Wal Mart In India Marketing Essay India is seen as an emerging market for retail by global retailers. A.T. Kearneys Global Retail Development Index (GRDI) of 2009 ranks India as the most emerging destination for retail ahead of Russia and China. However, to protect its own retail industry, the Government of India has permitted only 51 % FDI for single brand retail. This has deterred many multi-brand retailers to enter the retail business in India. However, these retailers can enter the wholesale business where 100 % FDI is permitted. In November, 2006, Wal-Mart entered into a 50:50 joint venture with Bharti Enterprises to enter the wholesale sector as well as back end partner. Several apprehensions are being raised about the success of Wal-Mart in India which has largely been dominated by traditional retailers. The case analyses the opportunities and challenges that Wal-Mart will face in India and concludes with discussion on the future of Wal-Mart with respect to the advantages and disadvantages that the global reta iler will have in India. Introduction Since liberalization in 1991, the Indian market has a limited presence of global retailers such as McDonalds, Landmark, Dominos, Pizza Hut and few others. In January 2006, the Union Cabinet approved the policy on foreign direct investment (FDI) in retail to further simplify procedures for investing in India and to avoid multiple layers of approvals required in some activities. To facilitate easier inflow, FDI up to 100 % was allowed under the automatic route for cash and carry wholesale and export trading. However to protect the interests of Indian retailers, the FDI up to 51 % was permitted in single brand retail only. In 2006, Wal-Mart of US entered into a 50:50 joint venture with Indian retail major, Bharti Retail to foray into the wholesale business in India. The first Wal-Mart Bharti store opened in Amritsar in late 2009. In the same year, A.T. Kearneys Global Retail Development Index (GRDI), ranked India as the most emerging destination for retail ahead of Russia and China. Gl obal retailers like French based Carrefour and US based Starbucks were exploring opportunities in the Indian retail market while; Swedish retailer IKEA shelved its plans. A report by Northbridge Capital, UK based investment bank, revealed Retail market size in 2009 is estimated to be of $450 billion, growing at the rate of 30 per cent per annum. It is expected to grow to $720 billion by the end of 2011  [1]  .An analysis by AT Kearney revealed that organized retail in India accounted for only 6 % of the total retail market . Market analysts believe that India had traditionally been dominated by unorganized retail. They wonder whether global retailers can sustain in India considering the restrictions on FDI in retail and a strong competitive unorganized market. About Wal-Mart of US The retail chain Wal-Mart was established by Sam Walton in 1962 in the US. Over the years, the retail chain grew leaps and bounds to be the most successful retailer in the US. The retail chain operates in various formats such as discount stores, supercentres and warehouse clubs. Wal-Mart stores are huge stores with size varying from 42,000 sq. feet to more than 200,000 sq. feet. The business model of Wal-Mart is based on selling a wide variety of merchandize at always low prices often referred to as everyday low prices. Wal-Mart successfully expanded its operations to 14 countries which included Mexico, UK, China, Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, India and Puerto Rico. By 2010, the chain operated 2,980 stores outside the US. Wal-Mart also ranks the topmost global retailer in the world with revenues of more than $ 400 billion from worldwide operations in 2009. About Bharti Enterprises of India Bharti Enterprises is an Indian business conglomerate established by Sunil Bharti Mittal. The group was founded in early 1990s. The group is involved in variety of businesses such as telecom, insurance, fresh foods, retail and realty. Outside India, the company has a presence in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Jersey, Guernsey and Seychelles. The group is in the process of establishing itself in countries like Burkina Faso, Chad, Congo Brazzaville, Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Ghana, Kenya, Madagascar, Malawi, Niger, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Tanzania,Uganda, and Zambia in the African sub-continent. The brand names Airtel and Beetel are household names in India. Its revenues for the year 2009 were estimated at $ 10 billion. Bharti Wal-Mart Tie Up After entering into discussions with Tesco of UK and Carrefour of France which did not materialize, Bharti Enterprises of India finally struck a deal with Wal-Mart of US in November 2006. According to the deal, Bharti would handle front end retail stores while Wal-Mart would act as a wholesale and back-end partner. However, Bharti would use the name Wal-Mart for its stores. The joint partnership planned to make investments in the retail sector to the tune of $100 millon which could go upto $1.46 billion. Wal-Mart was already procuring goods from various Indian companies to the tune of $1.5 billion. Industry observers say that the Wal-Mart would benefit from Bhartis experience in India while Bharti would benefit from Wal-Marts experience in overseas markets. However, after tremendous opposition from local people and political parties, the first store opened in Amritsar in late 2009. Consumer Shopping Behavior in India Consumers in the west are accustomed to shopping at organized formats while in India such formats are still evolving. Various researchers analyzing consumer shopping behavior in India made the following observations with respect to selection of stores by consumers: Traveling time : If the desired products are available in the neighborhood store, consumers would not visit the far away supermarket or hypermarket. Range of products offered : If the consumer shopping list is such that the required goods are not available in the neighborhood store, they would visit the supermarket or hypermarket. Services offered : The neighborhood stores offer personalized services such as credit facilities, free home delivery service, sms service and extended working hours. The organized retail formats offer good ambience, promotional offers and a good shopping experience. Socio Economic background : The socio-economic background of consumers determine their lifestyles and the kind of stores they would be comfortable to shop. Initially, the lower income group was hesitant to shop at organized retail formats as they felt that such stores were for the elite. However, over a period of time, the retailers adopted steps to change the perception of such consumers. Opportunities According to a report by McKinsey Company, the rise in disposable income of Indian consumers would be a major factor in contributing to the growth of retail consumption. The factors contributing to the growth of organized retailing in India include growth in working population, double income households, one stop destination for all needs, changing consumer lifestyles and easy availability of credit. Data by Investment Commission of India, 2007 revealed that significant retail opportunities existed in product categories like food and beverage, consumer durables and home improvement. It further forecasted that home improvement and consumer durables would grow at a compounded annual growth rate of 20 % in 10 years time. It further mentioned that India had a significant potential to emerge as a sourcing base for a wide variety of goods for international retailers. Leading international retailers including Tesco, GAP and JC Penney are already sourcing from India. A report prepared by Ernst and Young for India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF) reveals that there are significant opportunities for organized retailers in various cities of India. This is because these cities have households with tremendous spending power and lower penetration of organized retail compared to metro cities such as Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore. The online retail business progressed in India with growth of internet connections and e-payment service users. Retailers such as ebay.in, indiatimes.com and rediff.com were early entrants. Many small retailers also had their portals for online sale of merchandize. 70 % of Indias population is in the rural areas which offer tremendous opportunity for retailers. Key players in the rural retail market includ Indian Tobacco Companys Choupal Sagaar, DCM Shriram group owned Hariyali Kisan Bazaar and Indian Oil Corporations Kisan Seva Kendra among others. The main product categories marketed in rural areas include seeds, urea, FMCG goods and farm produce. Airport retailing is another emerging area for retailers. Raheja Groups Shoppers Stop partnered with Nuance Group, a leading Swiss global retailer to set up retail outlets at Bangalore and Hyderabad airports. Airport retailing offers opportunities in luggage, clothing and related accessories, food and beverage and souvenirs. The growing tourism industry has created significant demand for retailers dealing in artifacts. Challenges Logistics infrastructure in India has always been a cause of concern for global retailers. Lukas Ruecker, who oversaw emerging market business as vice president at Staples commented that the overall logistics is so much more difficult from a port in Chennai or a port in Shanghai to stores. Sumant Sinha, CEO, Aditya Birla Retail, is of the view that the logistics and supply chain infrastructure has to be built from scratch; its really about creating a new industry. Indias retail industry seems promising but is tempered by the fact that the country is grappling with severe infrastructure and policy issues, says the CII in the report it produced with A. T. Kearney. Cold chains (distribution chains for perishable items), warehousing and logistics infrastructure will create problems for global retailers if the Indian government does not focus on infrastructure. The report also points at inadequate quality control and the lack of a skilled workforce in India. Global retailers would have to customize their formats to suit Indian conditions. The Government of India fears that entry of global retail giants could put many retailers in the unorganized sector out of business. However, discussions at various retail forums have often proved that there is enough space for organized and unorganized retail in the country. Inspite of repeated discussion on the issue at various government levels to further liberalize the retail sector, no headway had been made. Indian retailers in organized and unorganized sector had geared themselves to face global competition. The organized retailers have focused on mall space acquisition, store expansion and diversification into various formats in addition to above and below the line promotional activities. The unorganized sector has focused on value added services. A report by PriceWaterhouseCoopers and Confederation of Indian Industry mentioned that small retailers in India had inherent advantages. They were located next to the consumer, making it convenient for top-up purchases. They knew the consumers well, some even by name. The report further mentioned that fixed costs for small retailers was very low thereby reducing their breakeven point to as low as 46 % of sales. They were also focusing on re-organizing their stores and stocking new products. The road ahead for Wal-Mart Industry observers wonder whether the failure of Wal-Mart in three major countries can be taken as a backdrop to predict its future in India. Consumer Behaviour experts are of the view that global retailers would have to understand shopping behavior in India and provide answers to why should Indians consistently shop at foreign retail outlets? Asitava Sen, retail industry specialist, PricewaterhouseCoopers., sharing his views in an article mentioned, Infrastructure is a significant challenge, especially while managing fresh produce, where producers are fragmented and there is multiple level of intermediation causing waste of up to 30% to 40% in the supply chain. Real estate is scarce and expensive in comparison to the quality being offered. An inadequate supply of skilled and trained people is another significant challenge.  [2]  

Is The Second Sex Beauvoirs Application of Sartrean Existentialism? Es

Is The Second Sex Beauvoir's Application of Sartrean Existentialism? ABSTRACT: Simone de Beauvoir's 1949 feminist masterpiece, The Second Sex, has traditionally been read as an application of Sartrean existentialism to the problem of women. Critics have claimed a Sartrean origin for Beauvoir's central theses: that under patriarchy woman is the Other, and that 'one is not born a woman, but becomes one.' An analysis of Beauvoir's recently discovered 1927 diary, written while she was a philosophy student at the Sorbonne, two years before her first meeting with Sartre, challenges this interpretation. In this diary, Beauvoir affirms her commitment to doing philosophy, defines the philosophical problem of 'the opposition of self and other,' and explores the links between love and domination. In 1927, she thus lays the foundations of both Sartre's phenomenology of interpersonal relationships and of her own thesis, in The Second Sex, that woman is the Other. Her descriptions of the experience of freedom and choice point to the influence of Bergson, specifical ly his concepts of 'becoming' and à ©lan vital. Tracing Beauvoir's shift from her apolitical position of 1927 to the feminist engagement of The Second Sex points to the influence of the African-American writer, Richard Wright, whose description of the lived experience of oppression of blacks in America, and whose challenge to Marxist reductionism, provide Beauvoir with a model, an analogy, for analyzing woman's oppression. Simone de Beauvoir's 1949 feminist masterpiece, The Second Sex, has traditionally been read as Beauvoir's application of the existential philosophy of her companion, Jean-Paul Sartre, to the situation of women. Diane Raymond, in Existentialism and the Philoso... ...]. In The World of Richard Wright. Jackson, Miss.: University Press of Mississippi. pp. 253-55. Fullbrook, Kate and Edward Fullbrook. 1994. Simone de Beauvoir; The Remaking of a Twentieth-Century Legend. New York: Basic Books. Kruks, Sonia. 1995. "Identity Politics and Dialectical Reason: Beyond an Epistemology of Provenance." Hypatia: A Journal of Feminist Philosophy 10 (2): 1-22. Myrdal, Gunnar, et.al. 1944. An American Dilemma; The Negro Problem and Modern Democracy. New York: Harper. Raymond, Diane. 1991. Existentialism and the Philosophical Tradition. Englewood Cliffs, Sartre, Jean-Paul. [1943] 1953. Being and Nothingness. Tr. H. Barnes. NY: Simon & Schuster. New Jersey: Prentice Hall. Simons, Margaret A. 1983. "The Silencing of Simone de Beauvoir: Guess What's Missing from The Second Sex." Women's Studies International Forum 6 (5): 559-564.

The Role of Nelson Mandela and President De Klerk in Bringing about the

Apartheid, means "separateness", this was a social system enforced by white minority governments in twentieth-century upon those of ethnic minorities in South Africa. Under apartheid, the black majority was segregated, and was denied political and economic rights equal to those of whites, this had become a distressing daily routine for the Africans. Therefore in 1991 when De Klerk announced the end of Apartheid, this was a momentous moment for the whole of South Africa and an event, which shall be remembered, in black history forever. After over 50 years of apartheid policies the Africans were finally freed from confinements as the law accounted upon them as equals. However, the question as been raised, as to why did De Klerk put a sudden end Apartheid, and what had influenced his decision in doing so. Throughout this section of this coursework, I shall be analysing the circumstances of South Africa in order to confirm who was more important in bringing about the end of apartheid and minority rule, De Klerk or Nelson Mandela? Nelson Mandela and F.W de Klerk played a vital part in bringing about the end apartheid and minority rule in South Africa. However, their reasons for wanting the apartheid to end deviate significantly. Nelson Mandela was involved in the main resistance against apartheid, the African National Congress, or ANC for short. This large political group in South Africa was involved in many protests against apartheid since its formation in 1912. Mandela joined the Youth League of the ANC in 1944 but had doubts about his commitment to the party. In 1948 the Youth League elected a new ANC president in response to the... ...ndela played a more pivotal role in bringing about the end of apartheid due to his constant exertions and fights against it. However, Mandela cannot be completely commended for his efforts in the termination of the Apartheid. As although, Mandela fought against the apartheid for the best years of his life, on the other hand received no reactions from the Government to his efforts to remove the apartheid. Therefore indicating De Klerk played a crucial part in the anti-apartheid movement as he was president and had the power to end apartheid whilst Mandela didn?t. Overall, making the end of Apartheid a joint combination of both FW de Klerk?s efforts in the negotiations between the National party, although more so, Mandela?s and the ANC progress and constant dedication which helped to bring about the end of minority rule.

Free College Admissions Essays: An opinion I have had to defend :: College Admissions Essays

Tell us about an opinion you have had to defend Tell us about an opinion you have had to defend. How has this affected your belief system? I chuckle to myself every time I think about this. I am perceived as a mild-mannered, intelligent individual until I mention that I am involved in riflery. It is interesting to watch someone's expression change. It is as if I instantaneously grew a pair of horns and a sharp set of claws. Believe me this gets worse; I am a member of the NRA. I try to tell these folks that I belong to the NRA to fire my rifle. "Oh my God! You fire real guns? with real bullets?!?" they remark with a perplexed look on their face. Besides having horns and claws, I now possess a tail and leathery wings. This is how it began five years ago. I had played on a soccer team for several years. As I grew older I began having difficulty playing soccer because of shortness of breath. I was diagnosed as having mild asthma which ended my soccer career and eliminated my participation in most physical sports. Shortly afterward, during a Boy Scout summer camp, I participated in riflery at their shooting range. This was the first time I had ever touched a firearm. To my amazement, I won the camp's first place award for marksmanship. I was more than eager when a friend of mine asked me if I would like to join a shooting club. My parents were wary when I asked to join the rifle club. My mother feared guns, but my father felt there was no problem with trying this sport. Gratefully, he gave me the opportunity to try rifle marksmanship, despite secretly hoping that I would quit. Both of my parents were afraid of what people would think about their son's involvement with guns. Like my parents a majority of people believe that all firearms are dangerous to our society. All they remember are the hysterical news releases of street violence and injured children. I am often asked how many deer I've shot. Frankly, I could never bring myself to injure another living creature and neither would most of the competitors I have met. Yet, I keep finding myself defending the sport from all of the misconceptions that surround it.

Case Study Crescent Pure Essay

Due to Crescent being Portland Drake Beverages’ (PDB) first entry into the U.S. sport/energy beverage market, there are some issues that PDB should consider with regard to Crescent’s impending launch. These issues consist of determining what customers want, being discussion-worthy and being transparent. Before launching Crescent it is essential to make sure that there is a place for Crescent in the market. Sarah Ryan, Vice President of Marketing for PDB, is doing this by trying to specify whether Crescent fits in the market better as an energy drink, a sport drink or a healthy organic beverage. Being discussion-worthy is another important issue to consider because it is important to make sure Crescent’s product stands out against the various other energy/sport beverage companies that are coming out with their own products. By captivating your consumers with something discussion-worthy, you’ll foster organic word-of-mouth about your brand. Being transparent is also a vital issue to consider because consumers have so many options on where to spend their money for sport/energy drinks. By being transparent and showing consumers exactly where their money is going, Crescent’s product will attract consumers. Letting consumers know where Crescent’s products are coming from and why they are priced they way they are gives power to the consumer, and helps them feel confident about their purchases. The factors that should influence the position of Crescent are competitors, market segmentation and market size. The market segmentation for sport drinks and energy drinks are distinguished through levels of hydration provided, energy provided, nutrition provided and favorable taste provided. Most energy drinks have higher energy, lower nutrition, lower hydration and  lower favorable taste compared to sports drinks. Additionally, the largest group of energy drink consumers were males between the ages of 18-34. Also parents of children were more likely to consume energy drinks and the highest volume of drinks consumed was by respondents with a household income below $25,000 per year. For sport drinks, roughly half of men consumed them, while only a third of women did. Furthermore, although 40% of men found sports drinks refreshing, only 27% of females did. Sports drinks appealed to younger consumers, 62% of those between the ages of 18 to 24. Crescent’s best target is males a nd females between the ages of 18-35. PDB must decide whether or not to position Crescent as an energy drink, a sport drink, or a healthy organic beverage. The advantages for positioning Crescent as an energy drink is that the market size for energy drinks has grown 40% between 2010 and 2012. Energy drinks were estimated to be $8.5 billion in the United States in 2013; forecasts projected that figure to reach $13.5 billion by 2015. Another advantage is that Crescent is a beverage that consists of organic ingredients that are a healthier option than most energy drinks. This is an advantage because sales of energy drinks with lower levels of caffeine and purer ingredients are rising due to consumer demand for healthier food and beverage choices. A disadvantage for positioning Crescent as an energy drink is that many potential consumers view energy drinks as unhealthy and might not see past that when PDB launches their new Crescent energy drink. Due to news stories highlighting the alleged health risks from energy drinks, 32% of consumers over 18 indicated they drank an energy drink in the last six months, 11% of who were drinking fewer energy drinks than they had a year earlier. The advantages of positioning Crescent as a sport drink is that the market size is also increasing. The market increased 9% between 2007 and 2012. In 2012, sports drinks reached $6.3 billion in the United States and are expected to grow to $9.58 billion by 2017. Another advantage of positioning Crescent as a sports drink is that diet and low-sugar beverages, which did not exist before 2009, had grown by 33% between 2010 and 2012. The market size for diet and low-sugar sports drinks is expected to increase from $1.4 billion in 2012 to $2.97 billion in 2017. This is perfect for PDB because  the Crescent beverage is based on being a diet, low-sugar, and overall healthy option. The disadvantage of PDB positioning Crescent as a sports drink is the concern regarding rising childhood obesity rates resulting in government-mandated guidelines to remove high-calorie sugary drinks and snacks, including sports drinks, from school vending machines. This could be a negative impact on the amount of sports drinks young consumers buy, who make up a large portion of the sports drinks that are consumed. The advantages of positioning Crescent as a healthy organic beverage is due to consumers currently moving towards healthier food and beverage options, as mentioned earlier. It is a market that is currently growing and will continue to grow. The disadvantage of positioning Crescent as a healthy organic beverage is that it lacks the energy that is provided by other energy drinks due to its use of organic ingredients. A focus group feedback found that some young consumers noted that Crescent had less energy than they had hoped. The positioning strategy that I would select would be a healthy organic beverage. It is important to find what draws you apart from the competition and then advertise based on that. The target market that Crescent wants to attract are people who are health conscious and consumers who buy sugary energy and sport drinks aren’t going to be as health conscious. Other implications that this will have for other elements of the marketing mix is that PDB could potentially raise the price for a Crescent beverage because some consumers from the focus group questioned PDB’s ability to deliver quality organic ingredients at $2.75, when most healthy organic beverages are above $3.00. Another implication this will have for other elements of the marketing mix is where this product is going to be sold. If Crescent is being sold as a healthy organic beverage then it must be sold in a store that sells other healthy and organic products in order to provide for the right target market. Lastly, Crescent will have to be advertised as a healthy organic beverage through packaging, commercials and other forms of advertisement showing that this product is healthy and only organic ingredients are used to make it.

Extended commentary of ‘Neutral Tones’ by Thomas Hardy Essay

On the Title: â€Å"Neutral Tones† encourages the reader to postpone any immediate inferences about the poem. It also refers to the muted (â€Å"monochrome†) colour scheme found in the first and last stanzas; these colours, in turn, are used by Hardy to emphasise the blandness/†deadness† of the emotions between the persona and his love. Thus the title is an introduction to both the poem’s images and emotional back-drop. Themes: Love (cruelty of it), Distance, Pain Overall Structure: A four stanza lyric with a continuous A/B/A/B rhyme scheme. These repeated ideas may add to the idea of monotony or dullness in emotion. This is a weak idea, however. First Stanza Notes: Hardy presents a scene and a persona. The use of the personal pronoun â€Å"we† has two effects: 1) It establishes a subtle familiarity between the reader and the persona – we can partially associate with the persona if he/she (sex is not made explicitly clear) through the simple use of the pronoun. 2) The lack of fixed gender does also add to a feeling of distance – distancing effects are used throughout the poem and will be explored. This particular one is maintained throughout. The scene presented is one of two figures standing by a pond; nearby sits a â€Å"sod† – a small grass turf. The description of this scene is incredibly important to the understanding of the poem; it sets the mood and leads to an eventual repetition of the image itself (last verse). The scene is devoid of colour, Hardy-esque by character and elegiac in tone. HEREBY NOTE: Hardy only uses the sense of sight in this poem (a nuance maintained throughout) – this is the only sense which can be used from afar. Thus we discover another distancing effect. The scene is devoid of colour – Hardy is introducing his colour scheme. As previously discussed, this reflects the muted nature of emotion expressed in the poem. Perhaps one can label the colours monochrome? Evidence, if needed in an exam, with brief exploration: * â€Å"Sun was white†; suggesting a light drained of colour. This phrase becomes important when considering the other images associated with the sun and sunlight. â€Å"Chidden of God† means ‘told off’ by God. This is an intentionally extreme image, certainly a rather bleak one! Compare with the ‘God-curst sun’ in fourth stanza. * â€Å"Few leaves†; weakest of the quotes. Indicates a lack of green on the sod (in terms of numerical value). * â€Å"Starving sod†; the grass is dying, and therefore turning brown. Like dried grass in the summer? * â€Å"Fallen from an ash†; significant choice of tree (obscure point though). Ash is associated implicitly with death. * â€Å"Gray†; for use when desperate. The colours are numbed, as to reflect how the breakup of a relationship can be as numbing. Quote SLS: â€Å"Hints towards a passionless palate of senses.† Second Stanza Notes: Hardy reveals the meaning/purpose of his scene in this stanza, by explaining and poetically exploring the relationship between the persona and his (former) love. The muted colour scheme, it becomes clear, does have the effect above described. * â€Å"Your eyes on me were as eyes that rove/ Over tedious riddles of years ago;† This line indicates both the trivial nature that the persona associates with the couple’s ‘riddles’ (problems?) now, and the implied importance of these problems possessed in earlier days. What does this change tell us? * Perhaps that the couple grew cold and got bored with one another’s problems, hence the use of ‘tedious’. The line also suggests that the ‘riddles’ used to be solved, or that they have recurred. Remember that the partner is both unnamed and ‘unspecified’ in any way – perhaps he/she has grown so cold to the extent that he/she sees the persona only in terms of what ‘was’? It is negative thought in any case. Quote SLS: â€Å"They see previous mysteries which no longer excite them†. Indeed, Hardy continues to suggest both the boredom created within their relationship and uses more distancing techniques in the next lines: â€Å"And some words played between us to and fro/ On which lost the more of our love† Note how the words are given physical attributes, or entities, as opposed to acoustic ones. We can figuratively â€Å"see† the words (because they are ‘played’ between the figures), but can’t hear them. This reinforces our idea of distance, in that the scene is almost behind a glass screen, where the sexes of the characters are blurred, we can see only particular details and cannot hear, smell or touch anything. As before said, this allows the reader to associate with the persona, albeit vaguely. Boredom reinforced; ‘played between us’ suggests some crude game – these problems seem trivial and dull now. And they lost the more of their love on them – the games didn’t do the relationship any good! Third Stanza Notes: Hardy recreates the moment at which the love died, and the relationship fully ended. To achieve this, he focuses on the partner’s mouth. â€Å"The smile on your mouth was the deadest thing/ Alive enough to have strength to die;† The use of an oxymoronic superlative stresses the death of emotion between the pair, further emphasised by the enjambment used – it highlights both â€Å"the deadest thing† and â€Å"Alive enough†, making such an image both stark and even more surprising. The image presented, as if the smile embodied the relationship, in one which is so close to death but has enough physical strength to complete the physical action of dying. An odd idea, but it works effectively. Note how the juxtaposition between life and death presents further contrast (when comparing poems, this becomes important!). Ad. [As a further distancing technique, observe how Hardy keeps only to sight; he uses the smile to fully embody the relationship.] However, Hardy does not end his onslaught of depression there: â€Å"And a grin of bitterness swept thereby/ Like an ominous bird a-wing.† Hardy here notes the transformation of the lover’s weak smile to an ex-lover’s grin, a positively relished expression of bitterness. As the reader, it is impossible to discern exactly who is relishing the moment; is it the partner, in a very cruel statement of emotion? Or is it the persona, in some oddly malicious â€Å"reverie-state†, remembering this moment and the pain it brought to him then, only to scorn it now, as ‘keen lessons’ in love have numbed the emotional agony? (Probably the former, as the latter changes the entire dynamic of the poem!) In any case, it is another confusion of oxymoronic imagery (grins and bitterness tend to be mutually exclusive) to express the pain of the relationship’s end; it certainly emphasises a strong sense of emotion. Hardy’s use of such emotive language may be considered out of place in a poem all out numbing pain and emotion; surely an â€Å"ominous bird a-wing† would fit better in Macbeth than next to a grey pond? Consider this possible weakness of this for yourself. (It might just be a forced rhyme.) Fourth Stanza Notes: Time is the opening note upon Hardy opens the fourth stanza, simply by using the words â€Å"Since then†. They put the reader in the present; indeed, by implication, this emphasises how the rest of the poem was in the past. It’s a memory! What consequence does this bear? * El Nombre Uno) [And yes, I do think that Hardy should have been Mexican. One can have a lot of fun with a Poet in a sombrero.] Simply, it is another distancing technique. Distance in time! * Numà ©ro Deux: [Hardy eating snails?] The present tense allows for the circularity of the main image in the poem – see hence. â€Å"Since then, keen lessons that love deceives,/ And wrings with wrong, have shaped to me/ Your face, and the God-curst sun, and a tree,/ And a pond edged with grayish leaves.† At last, Hardy arrives at the crux of his poem; that Love deceives, lies and hurts. The fact of this (these â€Å"lessons†) takes on the mental image of the scene earlier described – it IS a memory, and a blurry one, given the sparse details described in the poem. In a little more detail, there are two phrases which must be analysed: I) â€Å"God-curst sun† is even more emotive that the previously described â€Å"chidden of God†. The variation in terms should be explored. The severity of judgement, carried out by none other than the almighty, presents us with a very bleak image – the sun has physically paled under the strain. II) â€Å"Wrings with wrong† is obviously emphasised by the alliteration and the harsh consonance which accompanies it. But does the sense of torsion implied by the word â€Å"wrings† suggest a tearing of a relationship? Perhaps. Note the continued use of the word ‘and’; does this not show the memory is broken and returns to the persona mentally in small pieces, thus adding to the distance created once again? Indeed, along with the variation in terms, it gives the impression of a minimalist, mottled and monochrome image, like a half-remembered dream. Is there a willingness to forget it? Does the persona want to avoid further pain by remembering the image, thus has repressed it along with the associated emotions? (Freudian psychoanalyst in the room.) On the same plane of thought, but to reach a different a conclusion, consider this thesis: the memory has actually faded already, either due to Time or a willing repression. We are reading about a faded memory, as opposed to the persona writing down his VIVID memory in order to repress it himself. Like the First World War poets. Difficult concepts†¦ I say this because the image obviously embodies the emotion, and the circular usage of these conjoined principles proves that the memory is haunting the persona. But if the memory is fading, as shown by all of the distancing techniques, then have the memories accompanying it faded along with it too? (So, dear Mr.) Conclusion. Two ideas. 1) In writing the poem and using the distancing techniques, the persona is neutralising the pain (right now, that is, given that literature is a verbal suspension of time) and is establishing ‘neutral tones’. 2) The memory has already faded along with the pain. This is a mere statement of the fact. ‘Neutral Tones’ have been established.

Comparison Between Twelfth Night and the Rivals

Final Paper A0981150 Compare Twelfth Night with The Rivals, both of them are comedies evolving around several couples. The two plays contain the device of disguise and mistaken identity. In Twelfth Night, Viola disguises herself as Cesario, which attracts Orsino and Olivia; while in The Rivals, Jack Absolute disguises himself as Ensign Beverley, who fascinates Lydia. Speaking of similarities, both the disguises lead to the characters’ affairs, and they are proved to be true love at the end of the plays.On the other hand, as for differences, in Twelfth Night, Viola disguises herself as a man, and that results in her complex situation, a love triangle. Instead, in The Rivals, Jack takes the disguise as an ensign, which does not alter his real gender as a man; therefore, his situation is purer, that is, earning Lydia’s heart only and not drawing other admirer. Both the plays mention the communication of mails. In Twelfth Night, Maria writes letters to Malvolio, which purpo rts to be from Olivia.The function of letters in this play is to trick Malvolio, who is such a fool that believes the countess Olivia, a woman of a higher rank than his, would fall in love with him. In The Rivals, the function of letters is simpler, that is, Jack writes to Lydia to court her under the mistaken identity of a poor Ensign in order to win her affection or some other sentiment. In The Rivals, Jack Absolute’s line â€Å"Pho! man, is not music the food of love? is an allusion to Twelfth Night. In the beginning of Twelfth Night, Orsino says â€Å"If music be the food of love, play on†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬  Nevertheless, these two characters utter such statement in very different situations. Orsino, at that time, is melancholic and insanely in love, by contrast, Jack says his line when his friend, Faulkland, is getting crazy since his lover’s merriment during his absence irritates him. Thus Jack plays the role of a calm, reasonable, and comforting friend.Compar e the situations the two characters Orsino and Jack are in, their state of mind is completely different. The former stands for sentimental emotion, while the latter represents rationality. The two plays also involve the same element, duel. In Twelfth Night, Sir Andrew demands a duel with Cesario in order to have Olivia as lover. In The Rivals, encouraged by Sir Lucius, Acres writes a challenge note to â€Å"Beverley† to a duel.However, these two fights are in vain, the disturbers cannot achieve their goals to win the girls they want. These plots seem unimportant, but the duels actually help the meant-to-be couples to assure themselves that they have chosen the suitable ones for love and marriage. On account of the duels, the couples either reunite or get to know each other’s true identity. Generally speaking, the duels add much entertainment to the plays. Most important of all, they elicit the happy endings.

Improved Management Decision Making Essay

Managers at all levels of a business are required to make decisions constantly. Whether it be at an often low risk operational level, or at high importance strategic level, precise analysis is essential, failure on doing so could end in disaster in business’s unforgiving world. Evidence of this can be seen in the strategic level of Dell management in 2004. A poor decision to enter the market with their DJ.Ditty MP3 player, Dell failed to address any strong marketing campaign along with failure to analyse stronger substitute products concluded in Dell discontinuing the product two years later in 2006. The decision made in the development of the product were likewise poor as rival companies such as Apple and Zen’s product features far overpowered Dells weak product. (Laubacher 2011). Simple research into Information Systems tells us they are able to display information that can lead us to answer questions we are often queried with. But often management decisions are not j ust simple rhetorical answers but strategic procedures that will aid the business in specific ways. In this essay I will assess the different methods of how IT based systems through the means of Information systems can aid management decisions or, if they do at all. (C.Lucas 1994)In his book information systems concepts for management, defines an IS as â€Å"a set of organised procedures, that when executed, provides information to support organisation. The information is a tangible or intangible entity that serves to reduce uncertainty about some state or event.† (Oz, Jones and Gowthorpe 2009) Back this definition up stating an â€Å"IS system is a computer based set of hardware, software and telecommunications components, supported by people and procedures to process data and turn it into useful information. The information system can then be divided up into different subsystems with varying goals that help gear towards the organisations main goal†. It is clear that ISs are significant in the day to day operation of a business. The fact that ISs can answer question is indisputable, but the process in which they answer them and the form of answers they give can be debated. Synergy defines the combined resource output exceeding the total output of the same resources if they were employed separately (Oz, Jones and Gowthorpe 2009). This theory can be stretched as far as the four stages of processing that an information system goes through. Input is the first stage of this process which is entered by the human. The next three stages include the processing of the IS system, these include changing and manipulating the data, extracting the information out of the information system and finally storing the information that the IS system has administered. This is a great example of synergy, the IS system calculates the data at a quicker and cheaper cost than if a human were to do it, but the IS system first needs input from an event or scenario from a human, this evidence of synergy. (C.Luckem 2002) Theory on complex event processing relates to this very well. He defines each business action (be this internal with staffing decisions or external with customers through sales) taking several stages of events to reach a final state and in today’s technological driven domain ISs play a very Important role in each of these states. He relates to the use of ISs gathering and storing of data, sharing of information and the ability of systems to automate and often control components playing a vital part of CEP. ISs that relate to CEP are systems such as Supply Chain Management, according to (B.Handfield and L.Nichols 1999) â€Å"Is a set of approaches utilized to efficiently integrate suppliers, manufacturers, warehouses, and stores, so that merchandise is produced (often by computer aided design) and distributed at the right quantities, to the right locations, and at the right time, in order to minimize system wide costs while satisfying service level requirements† It is easy to see how this can be related to management decision making, at each stage of a process with the use of SCM managers can stop the process and analyse production rates, therefore using IS systems to make a decision, which In the case of SCM means utilising every process so that wastage is at a minimum and costs remain low throughout production . Luckem further expresses that the use of IS systems in CEP does not function with remotely one source but needs both the Human and IS system to work collectively for any form of process to work accordingly. Although(Bider 2010) argues the reliability of information processed by ISs. He states that human error can often be the cause of incorrect data. This is not uncommon; often as information is filtered through the information map from department to department human error can cause faults. So an argument could be formed that managers can often put great analysis into ISs, but decisions can be made using the wrong output from the system. In relation to the four stages of processing, this output can then be stored incorrectly meaning any future decisions based on this first problem will not aid the answer process as the information will be incorrect. There are other types of systems that can significantly aid decision making DSSs or Decision Support Systems are systems that aid making decisions through the use of built in models. (Turban 1995) Defines it as â€Å"an interactive, flexible, and adaptable computer-based information system, especially developed for supporting the solution of a non-structured management problem for improved decision making. It utilizes data, provides an easy-to-use interface, and allows for the decision maker’s own insights.† DSSs are comprised of three modules data management, model management and dialog management or in profit terms (actual prior, possible sales, possible revenue, and possible profit). Using these modules DSSs helps find an ideal course of action, able to analyse and finally answer questions that are often asked upon humans, ‘What if’ or ‘How will this action impact revenue’ are example. DSSs are able to process raw data, and draw comparisons to generate information to aid a business decision. Although (Jensen, B.Lowry and Jeffery 2011) argue that the now more wide spread use of Decision Support Systems due to the increase in technology used in business today should not replace the decision making of a human. They argue that although â€Å"It is often difficult for people to assess credibility correctly in face-to-face interactions† but argue the use of DSSs cannot be used as an absolute decision making process â€Å"The capability of face-to-face interactions is critical to effective communication and decision making†. Their views can be seen as somewhat old fashioned when relating to decision making. Similar to DSSs are Strategic information systems. The root of this system is based upon Michael E. porter’s Concept of competitive advantage. This concept analyses the strategic steps a business undergoes to gain an advantage over its competitors. According to (E.Porter 1998), SIS works by enhancing opportunities through analysing competitors, recording seller patterns, identifying potential substitute products and finally retrieving information on keeping a healthy share in the business’s market. All of these should aid a business to create a competitive advantage through the means of SISs. The storing of data and analysis of this data is what managers will use to make decisions. In both the DSSs and SISs the analysis will often plan out a possible route in which the business may take to achieve its aims. It is then up to management to take these recommendations on board through adopting the ideas or not. IS used in the hierachary of a business are important to assess, at an operational level Systems used will be Transactional Process systems are Electronic point of sale, both of these systems allow managers to analyse structured data and draw conclusions for themselves, examples of this maybe the management of stock ordering to improve on wastage, or assessing what product sells at an appropriate time. These systems can then be assessed by the tactical level that may use the means of DSSs to assess new pricing strategies to adapt to the operational level through the help of DSSs but on the evidence of data outputted by TPSs or EPOS. The next and final stage will be the use of the systems at a strategic level. Strategic level will use DSSs and Executive information systems (similar to DSSs but often seen as more precise and concentrated form of system) along with unstructured data which occurs through the means of meetings, conversations and emails .Furthermore strategic level generally have access to IS of all subordinates ISs to help make decisions as well as ISs linked together with external commercial services, such as the latest stock prices and general business news are also common. It is clear that ISs aid management decisions, but in context of this it is important to assess the characteristics of the managers, as well of the management styles. For example managers that adopt an autocratic style of management will be less interested in staff well-being which may affect their reaction to support they receive through IS systems, meaning they may adopt any plans a DSS comes up with whether or not it has a negative effect on staff. Democratic style managers may rely heavily on the data produced from systems of their subordinate. When assessing the improvement of decision making through the means of ISs, I feel it is important to assess manager characteristics, it is clear that there are systems that aid the decision making process but as (Bider 2010) stated there can be human error caused through the input of a system which may lead to poor decision making. I feel steady analysis through each stage of the input process will allow data to be used correctly, therefore being pivotal in decision making process and consequently improving them. Bibliography B.HANDFIELD, Robert and L.NICHOLS, Ernest (1999). Introduction to Supply Chain Management. vol.1. 1st ed., Prentice Hall. Business Using IS , BIDER, IIia (2010). Enterprise, Business-Process and Information Systems Modeling. vol.50. 1st ed., Queensland, Springer. 364213050X. C.LUCAS, Henry (1994). Information systems concepts for management. 5 ed., indiana, Mitchell McGraw-Hill. 11. C.LUCKEM, David (2002). The Power of Events: An Introduction to Complex Event Processing in Distributed Enterprise Systems. 1 ed., Addison wesly. 1. E.PORTER, Michael (1998). Competitive advantage: creating and sustaining superior performance : with a new introduction. Havard, Simon and Schuster. JENSEN, Matthew, B.LOWRY, Paul and JEFFERY, Jenkins (2011). Effects of Automated and Participative Decision Support in Computer-Aided Credibility Assessment. Journal of management information syetems, 28 (1), 201-233. LAUBACHER, Robert (2011). Managing Corporate Reputation in the Blogosphere: The Case of Dell Com puter. Corporate Reputation Review, 14 (2), 133-144. OZ, JONES and GOWTHORPE (2009). Finacial and Management Informatoin. vol.2. London, Cengage Learning. TURBAN, Efriam (1995). Decision support, And what they do? In: Decision support and expert systems : management support systems. Englewood cliffs, Prentice Hall, p.576.

Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 2

Assignment Example One of the main technological advancements that completely transformed the business world is the invention of the Social Media Networks such as Facebook, Skype and Twitter. Technology enables people to network easily, chat and meet friends over the internet. In addition, businesses take advantage of this platform provided by social media networks to advertise their products and services, i.e. through e marketing and e-commerce. Social media networks have millions of people converging on their sites at the same time. Businesses are looking for these customers. Therefore, it is mandatory for every business to have a presence in social media in order to keep adrift with business trends and transformation (Hair, Lamb and McDaniel 14). On the other hand, social media networks also brought about significant transformation in the social-cultural arena whereby it transformed how people interacted. Through social media networks, it is possible for people to meet and make friends with other fr om parts of the globe. Furthermore, social media sites also enable people to participate in online conversations, voice their opinions about certain issues, as well as contribute to both educational and motivational blogs. As such, social communication greatly advanced through social media networks. This greatly improved interpersonal skills and modes of communication across the globe. The world has become a more social place thanks to social media, and social media networks enabled people to marshal support and fight champion for a common course, e.g. social media sites was very fundamental in organizing the Arab Uprising in Egypt in 2011 (Hair, Lamb and McDaniel 14). A recent study by a consumer health organization, Families USA, reported that pharmaceutical drug companies spend over $57 billion per year on promotion. Direct-to-physician activities accounted for the bulk of spending, on a practice called, â€Å"detailing†Ã¢â‚¬â€visits to physicians by pharmaceutical sales representatives in order to promote their firm’s drugs. Free drug samples distributed during these visit represent another significant expense. It is estimated that in total pharmaceutical companies spend over $61,000 in â€Å"promotion per physician†. The other major piece of the marketing ‘pie’ is spent on consumer-direct marketing—ads that suggest consumers ‘ask the doctor† about drugs we may not even need for ailments we may not even have. The report also states that each of the top 10 pharmaceutical companies spend more than twice as much on marketing on research and development. The market for prescription drugs is unique in many ways. Prescription drug marketers must convince a third party-- a physician-- to prescribe their product to the ultimate consumer, the patient. The decider is the physician, and drug manufacturers' promotional efforts traditionally have been directed toward physicians. Furthermore, drug firms increasingly have to influence committees in hospitals and health management organizations who are determining which drugs their physicians can prescribe. (15) (About 250-300 words) If prescription drugs can only be ordered by a physician, what is the purpose of marketing directly