An Analysis of George Stiger Criticism of Adam Smith Essay

An Analysis of George Stiger Criticism of Adam Smith - Essay Example Smith refrains from making reference to self interest in the analysis of the popular passage motives but rather resort to the phrase ‘self love’. From these two phrases ‘self interest’ and ‘self love’ a misconception can arise that the two are synonyms. Criticisms of Adam Smith The most indebted intellect by Adam’s work is Hirschman. In his work on interests and passions, there has been evidence of relationships between moral philosophical development and modern model on self interest and rationale for state theory. Adam’s article contributes much support to Hirschman’s work and emphasizes it more. There are certain instances when Smith contradicts himself. This should not be considered as failure as far as his works is concerned. Similar to his classical ideologies, Smith fronts an argument that, in order for one to get the truth, an issue being debated should be viewed from all perspectives (Miller, 1993). Clarity on this has been made on moral sentiments theory, where Adam adopts debates on commerce corruption influence, and consequently denies them to be splenetic philosophy. From Smith’s perspective, the nations’ wealth was a significant reconciliation of human’s political and social idea on fruits of commerce. From Hirschman’s idea, an argument arises that the reason to economic adventure as an independent science is because of Smith’s republican leanings. ... From the article, the dominating characters did not place themselves in a focal point with consideration on their contemporaries and predecessors. Focusing on ways authors perform their own systems of construction, they always reject the fundamentals of other authors in order to build theirs. Traditionally, economists persist that the behavior of having self interest hold particularly for activities in economics. Attempts have been made to take self interest in a broader perspective as the initial principal in analyzing the behavior of individuals. There are claims that a comprehensive approach to economics is that which can be applied to all individuals, regardless of the price behaviors or imputed prices, infrequent or recurring decisions, minor or large solutions, mechanical or emotional ends, poor or rich people, children or adults, women or men, stupid or bright, doctors or patient, students or teachers. Adam smith refrained from the fact that as much as an individual’s e conomic behavioral pattern is always predictable there always few instances when the pattern changes (Smith, 1776). Another intellect asserted that in case the universe in physical form was a subject to motional law, then the universe in moral form will be a subject to interest. In General, self interest stands out as the only motivation for human action. George Stigler conveys a message that is used by many economists as he reiterates that the quote on baker, brewer and butcher contributes to the primary principle and to the modern economics. As much the interpretation of self interest is easily floated in mind, it is a testimony of interest paradigm. Initially, the idea to pursue self interest by agents of independence would lead to

Exchange Rates Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Exchange Rates - Coursework Example In addition to that, it enhanced the income tax rates, cost of capital, sales growth rate which in return maximized profits. Minimization of transaction costs leverages exchange rates with a target of maximizing profits (Ostrow, 2011). Transaction cost helps in determination of goods and services for leveraging economic exchange rates through the implementation of the minimum prices in the market. Transaction cost consists of the bargaining cost that is regarded as an acceptable agreement for increasing profits. Apart from having economic performance and political stability for seeking out the exchange rate, transaction cost also enhanced investment funds for increasing profits in the U.S. The monetary policy of the U.S. characterizes the economic environment and is aimed at improving the exchange rates between the U.S. and other countries (Mark, 2002). Banks in the U.S and other nations buy the domestic currency so as to make the exchange rates stable. This therefore means that the supply of money is controlled by the economic environment and targets a rate of interest for enhancing economic growth between the U.S and other nations. Mark (2002) claims that the exchange rate is negatively affected by this economic environment. The value of exchange rates between the U.S and other nations was reduced due to irregular flow of currencies and fluctuations in the exchange

Influence of Magazines on Beauty | Cross-Cultural Analysis

Influence of Magazines on Beauty | Cross-Cultural Analysis INTRODUCTION Beauty is not concrete and may vary from culture to culture changing over time and shifting according to location. Beauty is an image which has been created by society to which woman and men have had to subject themselves to be real. The ideology of beauty or what is accepted as being the right appearance has been created by society and largely propagated by media. For United States of the 1950s Marilyn Monroe was the pinnacle of beauty which soon changed to Twiggy in the 1960s. While porcelain skin is valued in China, scarification of the skin and decorating it with tattoos is considered as a status symbol in Africa. Thus the physical attributes and ideas attached to beauty vary across cultures. Womens magazine industry is understood as a monolithic meaning producer, circulating magazines that contain messages and signs about the nature of femininity that serve to promote and legitimate dominant interests. (Anna Gough- Yates). A majority of feminist critics argue that media is responsible for establishing and promoting gender differences and inequalities in society. In respect media persons are considered responsible for reinforcing capitalism and patriarchy; manipulating society to attain increased circulation figures. Magazines are a great source, to study the society. Recording changes, from the purely fashion magazine couture age of 1920s, to lifestyle and home of the 1940s when domestic help was rare and woman to a personal interest in their homes. To New woman of the 1980s when woman began to work alongside men in almost every field to do it yourself of the 20th century with soaring costs and economic downturn. Magazines reflect revolutions in society and influenced the opinion of women across nations. Given the increase in trade to Asia and the spread of the beauty industry across nations, there is limited study available on how people are depicted internationally in the fashion magazines. Previous research has established that womans magazines can act as agents of publicizing gender stereotypes and beauty ideals like size zero and institutionalizing conventions like photographic poses. (Rudman and Verdi, 1993; Griffin, Viswanath, Schwartz, 1994). Yet little research has been done on the differences in representation of women internationally and locally. POWER OF IMAGES One must establish what people are looking at before one can hope to understand why under the conditions peculiar to them, they see what they see Rudolf Arnhein (Arnhein 1977:4) An image is that stimulus or representation that compels us to cognition, interpretation and personal preference. If we understand that the market is image based than we also begin to understand the importance of vision in understanding management in the information society. Images are where visual communication starts. Jonathan E. Schroeder confirms in his study of media that visual consumption is critically important for understanding contemporary consumers. Today marketing professionals are sensitive towards global customers and realise that they are enthusiastic consumers of images. Brand image, corporate image and self image are significant economic and consumer values and that global market culture is largely the construction of symbolic environments. (S. E. Jonathan, 2002) This is of great importance especially in the 21st century as the importance of marketing management and consumer research in this century may shift from problem solving to problem recognition from productio n of goods to the production of images (S. E. Jonathan, 2002) Through time marketers have learnt that markets are global which should translate into local approach. But when companies globalise they become more production driven wanting to sell more thus having common promotional strategies across cultures, sticking to one single image, hardly realising that there may be global products, but there are no global people. There may be global brands but there are no common global motivators to buy those brands. (M. De Mooij, 2009). Many brands have with the help of technology and communication tried to globalise nations. But technology has not brought a global village in which consumers all behave the same. GLOBAL MEDIA Globalisation is best defined as the crystallization of the entire world as a single place (Robertson, Ronald. 1990. Mapping the Global Condition: Globalization as the Central Concept. Theory, Culture and Society 7) Due to the success of global brands writers have predicted an unavoidable colonization of world culture by internationalised brands that would most definitely lead to demise of local cultures. However there is also evidence that suggests social relationships and values in local culture are resistant to the negative effects of globalization. On one hand globalisation is expected to destroy local cultures and bring about homogeneity while on the other hand it is also the reason for the revival of local cultural identities from various parts of the world. Today the expansion of western cultures values and ideas has reached the far corners of the world, right to Asian countries like India and China which have been dominant till the 21st century. Now that these countries have become important players in the world market, counter expansion of values and culture can also be seen. Over the past few decades there has been a rapid expansion of global brands in the media sector more than ever in the area of womans fashion magazines. Local editions of Elle, Harpers Baazar and Vogue are now being published in Asia. The internationalization of a magazine is not a new phenomenon although until quite recently the most popular womans magazines have been published locally. Harpers Bazaar, a U.S magazine launched itself in U.K. in 1929 (Anna Gough-Yates, 1993), Elle a European magazine began publishing its first edition in Japan in 1960s while Vogue a U.S magazine entered the Indian market in the 21st century. However the establishment of an integrated global media market only began in earnest in the late 1980s and did not reach its full potential until the 1990s. (Herman and Mc Chesney ,1997, p10) The latest NRS (National Readership Survey) figures suggest that the total readership market in U.K. for the months of July and December 2008 has risen by 10% since last year, while the total market for womens lifestyle and fashion magazines has grown by 7 %. (IPC Advertising) A similar trend was observed in USA where magazine subscription reached a ten year high in 2008 and with the total number of magazines published reaching 20,590 the total percentage of subscriptions also increased by 1.4% (MPA Magazine Publishers of America, ABC) Comparatively in Asia according to a PricewaterhouseCoopers the Asia/Pacific magazine market excluding Japan is projected to grow by 7.2% annually, reaching $20.7 billion by 2010, Advertising is also expected to rise by 5% annually to $8.1 billion in 2010. This means theres plenty of potential for countries in South Asia, where advertising spending is just about 0.34% of GDP. Until now foreign brands were allowed only 26% ownership when venturing into Asian countries. But in 2005 most of the Asian countries levelled the field for non news publications allowing 100% foreign direct investment. (D. Ruth, 2007, Forbes) In an age looking towards the internet for all information and goods there is a risk that print media and magazine subscriptions may fall contrary to predictions. A recent research conducted by PPA marketing suggests that the internet does not have any harmful effect on peoples desire to read offline, in fact in some cases reading websites encourages them to read magazines. Out of 1500 adults between the age of 18- 34 surveyed online revealed that peoples expectations and goals from each medium depends on the subject matter and for the subject of beauty and fashion print magazines are an obvious choice. Also the idea of owning a piece of fashion history through the beautifully photographed and styled images in fashion magazines makes print media a lucrative choice. With fashion going cross cultures, print media being the apparent choice of the masses to keep them in trend and the governments giving publication houses the clear there is nothing stopping international fashion magazines going local. Like all the other global media, magazines use many different strategies to cross the borders. The main reasons for crossing borders are saturation of home markets and to generate revenue by providing international consumer brands with advertising vehicles that reach into the expanding foreign markets'(Dr. Katherine Frith, 2006,pg4-5). For example Condà © Nast which has a portfolio of 127 magazines in 23 countries had to close down Mademoiselle in November 2001 due to competition, flagging sales and saturation of magazine houses. Markets with rising economic rates like Asia and Middle East, as a result have become a target for westerns producers of beauty and fashion magazines. FASHION MAGAZINES AND THEIR IMPACT Many women across cultures are influenced by general trends in fashion and follow although at a distance the fashion industry. The relationship between consumers and trends is complex but it is mediated by fashion magazines. The difference between international fashion magazines and their local versions is that the international issues tend to carry a predominance of images for multinational products. (Shaw, 1999). Such magazines are growing in popularity in Asia and this popularity has bought about a change in perspective regarding the depiction of woman and products in local magazines. Griffin, Viswanath, and Schwartz(1994) found in a study comparing images in weekly U.S. news magazines (Time and Life) to weekly Indian magazines (India Today and Illustrated weekly of India), that many of the western advertising principles and poses for women were being conveyed across nations. They confirmed that female models in India were taking on poses that related closely to gender portrayals of the advanced western nations. A recent analysis of magazines international and local in China by Frith, Cheng and Shaw (2004) suggests that Caucasian models are more frequently shown in seductive dresses than Asian models. Feminist critiques like Kates, Shaw and Garlock (1999) would argue that western magazines are cultural institutions that represent women in a problematic and often unacceptable way although attractive female bodies and sexual content have for long been used in the west to draw consumers to a product and generate interest. Comparing this to the representation of woman across cultures with reference to the few studies conducted on the topic; Griffin, Viswanath and Schwartz (1994) concluded that the use of Sexual pursuit as a theme was used three times more often in American magazines than magazines in India. In conservative Asian countries like Malaysia and Indonesia only Caucasian women were used in Lingerie advertisements (Frith and Mueller, 2003). Any magazine wanting to be resonant with its target audience needs to represent the social norms and cultural values of the given society. International magazines like Vogue and Elle although have publishing houses in Asian countries most often train their employees in the west. The result being that the forms of representation and especially that of woman can take on a globalized look. As Kyung-Ja Lee,(2000, pg 86) has rightly said for thirty years, media have been taken to task for reproducing and reinforcing stereotyped images of woman. Yet unfair representation of woman in media still prevails worldwide. Sex stereotyping has been so deeply ingrained, even glorified, that the woman themselves have become desensitised to their own inferior portrayal. The prospects appear even gloomier as the globalisation of media progresses Previous researchers have noted that the images of models used in magazines have been extensively retouched to represent the ideal of beauty that is unattainable for all but a very few people.(Greer,1999). By showing models that are uniformly thin, flawless and perfectly proportioned the media may contribute towards low self esteem and unhappiness among woman and give rise to problems like eating disorders.( Gauntlett, 2002) Media is also considered a large contributor to the global increase in plastic surgery to change physical appearance among young girls (Lee, 2007). With most models used in international magazines being white the publications are rarefying the ethnic beauty ideals. In fact the obsession with whitening products may be a result of this overuse of White models in Asian publications. Finally as global media takes readers away from local publications and changing Asian beauty ideals it is important to study the impact of international beauty ideal on local consumers. The Asian society has predominantly been a conservative society yet with the onset of westernisation this society is changing and adapting itself. But as Marieke de Mooij states, product usage or acceptance does not change overnight, as peoples behaviour is stable . A new idea or concept is only accepted when it is consistent to a change in society and does not imply a fundamental change in culture. Essay 2: THE VOGUE IMPACT This essay will discuss Vogue magazines cover page and its relationship with its brand identity. Can the brand successfully globalised by altering its cover page image, based on cultural and social variants in each of its markets? Would standardisation of the brands cover page images and visual identity help to avoid criticism on its entry into a new market? VOGUE BEGINING Started in 1982 Vogue magazine is predominantly an American cultural phenomenon. It began as a social weekly periodical and nurtured into a professional and confident monthly publication under the leadership of Condà © Nast which took over vogue in 1909. Primarily as a lifestyle magazine catering to both men and woman Vogue has come a long way to be at the pinnacle as the fashion magazine for woman in vogue (David, A., 2006). In an age where French fashion was considered the ultimate Vogue managed to put American Couture on the map. Under the Condà © Nast umbrella the magazine not only managed to become a brand name in its own country but also exported fashion ideas to the world. Today Condà © Nast which has a portfolio of 127 magazines in 23 countries believes Vogue to be its cash cow. At present there are a million fashion and beauty magazines such as In Style, Elle and Cosmopolitan circulated around the globe, but in times of crises citizens all over turn to Vogue to confirm the latest fashion news. With readership and subscription levels of about 220,000 a month for the British Vogues, 133,000 a month for the French Vogue and American Vogue, at 1.2 million a month Vogue is the leading magazine in the business of fashion. (IPC Advertising reports) The once small publication eventually became an international phenomenon with issues being published in more than 12 countries. YEAR OF LAUNCH COUNTRY /EDITION 1916 British Vogue 1918 Spanish Vogue 1920 French Vogue 1924-1926 Argentinean Vogue 1928 German Vogue 1964 Italian Vogue 1975 Brazilian Vogue 1994 Singapore Vogue 1996 Korean Vogue 1996 Taiwanese Vogue 1999 Japanese Vogue 1999 Latin American Vogue 2000 Greek Vogue 2005 Chinese Vogue 2007 Indian Vogue Since its birth the magazine has strived to serve the society by portraying an example of proper etiquette, beauty, composure and fashion. The magazine not only plays a role in setting latest trends but also records the changes in cultural thinking, actions and clothing through its images. Looking at Vogue through the ages it can be clearly seen that it is also a documentation of the changing roles of woman, and the influences of cultural ideas and politics over time. The power the Vogue magazine has over generations of women has inspired many new magazines like Cosmopolitan and Glamour; all interested in its market share. In spite of this great quantity of magazines circulating around the globe, considering circulation figures and media impact no other publication has managed to accomplish the lasting power and success of Vogue. (David, R., 2007) VOGUE IMAGE Self definition has always been crucial to vogue. (David, A., 2006). Throughout its first 30 years vogue editors and illustrators made use of the French meaning of vogue, defined in the first dictionary of the Acadà ©mie Franà §aise (1694) as the impulsion or movement of a galley or other ship by the force of rowing. It was only in the 18th century that vogue and fashion were listed as synonyms (Fà ©raud 1787–8). Since its first issue Vogue magazine has been personified as a youthful young woman. The magazines first cover presented itself in the disguise of a debutante, a young socialite. When Condà © Nast bought the magazine in 1909 he brought it into line with other successful publishing ventures and in just over a decade, circulation went from 14,000 to 150,000 while advertising revenue soared from $76,111 to two million dollars (Robinson 1923: 170). He modernised the magazine not just the content but also the cover. He replaced the black and white drawings of the front cover with commissioned, lavish, stylised and signed illustrations. This change helped to attract attention to the magazine and increase circulations. As an advertising man, he understood the value of having a visual brand or logo and Nast revived the original Vogue trademark, a distinguished little sketch which immediately became known as the Vogue girl (David, A., 2006). This first Vogue girl was just an illustration cla d in a fancy dress with the than fashionable leg-o-mutton sleeves. Her unnatural ivory white skin, snow white wig, tiny waist and voluptuous bosom, was directed at the fantasies of the magazines readers (David, A., 2006).The Vogue girl represented the heritage of those Americans who wished to be different from the New World Americans and was constantly seen as wearing historical costumes and heirlooms. Than too the new world American woman aspired to look like her. All this changed in the 1920s when the Vogue girl was changed to an illustration by Georges Lepape. This new image was more streamlined and represented the woman at the heights of fashion in the 1920s. Vogue had gone from importing fashion to exporting it. As times changed so did the magazine cover from illustrations to photographs, making models like Cindy Crawford and celebrities like Madonna a household name. This change in its image was a response to the internationalisation of the magazine. Today the vogue cover girls are the most glamorous, exotic, unusual and popular persons of the moment. The trend being more towards actresses than models dressed in the heights of fashion, styled by the best stylist and clicked by A-list photographers they are every girls aspiration and every boys fantasy. Like its cover girls the magazines is considered to be glamorous, glossy and trendy. (Alexandra Shulman, Vogue U.K. editor). Despite of having these factors common among them, the vogue covers are dissimilar in many aspects depending upon its country of publication. CULTURE AND CONSUMER BEHAVIOUR Anglo –Saxon psychological research states that the concept of self and personality are the basis of Western consumer behaviour. The words identity or personality have no fixed meaning in the Asian culture. A global brand needs to consider the cultural differences to truly succeed in the world field. A number of research experts and cultural studies suggest that a brand should think global, act local. This is based upon the theory that the way people think and perceive any brand or image is guided by the framework of their own culture (Mooij, M, 2009). The observation of Japanese individuality as a sign of westernisation of the country is a misconception of many global brands. For more than a decade international magazines have been accused of standardising a beauty ideal across the globe with disregard to the individual cultural and beauty ideals of the host country. For a short duration the values and attributes of a foreign or global personality might have a strong attraction, but ultimately people return to their own local values and culture. For a Brazilian woman the emphasis is on her bottom, um corpo de violà £o which literally means a guitar shaped body is most desirable. No matter how many international magazines showcase buxom beauties, the Brazilian woman would ultimately want a bigger bottom as the point of attraction is the sweet swing of the hips. The illustration of a desirable Japanese woman in The memoirs of a Gesha suggest, that the Japanese appreciate soft delicate feminine features, small feet and long hair cut in layers. A slim slender graceful body is more desirable than a curvaceous one. In Islamic countries the body is considered a n obstacle in viewing ones true beauty. Any bodily decorations or changes are considered a veil over the inner beauty and the Hijab is another veil to conceal these changes so that the womans only public identity would be her inner self. For the Greek it has been symmetry in structure and features, based on Platos ideas that, beauty is that which irradiates symmetry rather than symmetry itself. The Nuba tribe in Sudan like dark skin and hairlessness. On studying traditional Indian paintings it can be concluded that the Indian ideals of beauty in a woman is voluptuousness, with the belly and hips being of prominence.( Ei, 2008) The image and identity associated with woman of different geographical locations are deep rooted in their respective cultures. The beauty ideals and a womans self image in any culture can be understood by studying its paintings, sculpture and artistic representations. Today the artistic or idealistic representations of women are magazine covers, images and pho to spreads. These covers are also considered a mode of advertisement for the magazine within that culture. As Steve Taylor has rightly put in his book 100 years of magazine covers it is hard to identify another cultural artefact which embodies an advertisement for itself in such a powerful way. Magazine covers can be breathtaking, beautiful, confrontational, resonant, heartbreaking, stimulating, irritating and uplifting. At their best they come together as a kind of spontaneous street level exhibition, publicly displaying the work of some of our best creative talent, featuring what is most admirable and dismissible about the modern world, communicating the people and events that shape our culture. Apart from a mode of advertisement of todays culture a magazine cover plays a dual function of advertising the magazine brand itself. An impressive cover encourages people to flip through the magazine and buy it. (Alexandra Shulman, British Vogue editor). Getting the magazine cover right is not only ethically important but also financially important to the magazine in order to develop brand loyalty and increased circulations. Thus making it important to study magazine covers as a mode of advertisement and part of the marketing mix, for a magazine publication. MAGAZINE COVERS AS BRAND VISUAL IDENTITY It is a common assumption that an advertisement would be effective if the viewer decodes the advertisement successfully, if there is a significant transfer of attributes. (Mooij, M., 2009). Thus while developing one idea for a global brand or one single motivator for different cultures, one should not assume that the responses would be alike too. An idea being interpreted accurately by the consumers would only happen if the senders and receivers share one culture. If they do not share the same cultural values it may result in misunderstandings and demeaning of brand value within that culture. For example consider the inaugural Vogue covers of India and China. The Indian Vogue cover was styled by the magazines British fashion director while the Chinese vogue was styled by French Vogue editor Carine Roitfeld (China economic net and Fashion week daily dispatch). The covers were not rightly decoded by the consumers and received much criticism. Whereas the covers for the preceding months styled by Anaita Shroff Adajania the fashion director for Vogue India was highly appreciated.(Fashion week daily dispatch) The essence of a brand is that it is a name in the memory of consumers. It is a perceptual map of positive and negative associations, a symbolic language, and a network of associations. (Mooij, M.,2009). Vogue with its launch in many Asian countries received much negative associations with its local issues. The local Asian issues of Vogue are considered small ripples in the big pond of Fashion magazines (Armstrong ,L, 2009) and they could never manage to create the impact that American vogue or Italian Vogue have managed to create world over. Vogue India or Vogue China might be sold worldwide but it is not necessary that consumers in all countries consider them global brands. One theory suggests that a global brand is a brand that is strongly associated with its country of origin (Mooij, M., 2009) and for Vogue its been America. This can be considered positive if the country of origin has a stable global identity. With American values becoming ambiguous and Vogue bifurcating into mul tiple countries over time its core identity may be threatened. The idea of incorporating local aesthetics with their global image might dilute the brands global image. STANDARDISATION A multinational companys personality and identity are the biggest factors influencing consumer (Eales, 1990 as cited in Melewar,T.C, Saunders, J., 1998). Unrestricted global trade, a competitive marketplace and the fast technological developments have created a situation where consumers dont just buy the product they also buy the company that produces it. The brands character, its identity, its image and the confidence it inspires in them help in making the choice between two almost similar product offerings in the market. At the centre of any business and its projected image is its corporate visual identity system. The elements of this system are: name, symbol, and/or logo, typography, colour and slogan (Dowling, 1994). These elements help to sell the company to consumers and its stakeholders. Corporate identity programs have risen due to globalisation (Ind, 1992). The changing business tactics, geographical locations, variations in cultures and changing markets have all encouraged companies to change their corporate identity. As companies begin to operate on an international basis, the image that they acquired as national producers often becomes inappropriate (Mills, 1988 as cited in Melewar,T.C, Saunders, J., 1998). Some international companies adopt a unified brand image in spite of government and consumer displeasure. The degree of de-standardisation of any company depends upon the strength of the host countries culture, government policies and target market. (Mooij, M., 2009). The decision to standardise a brand image also depends upon the competitive edge derived in either keeping activities central or decentralizing them. However a brand like Vogue that has a truly global orientation needs to express consistent brand values wherever it chooses to compete. Thus making its worldwide image more recognisable for its homogeneity than not. A major component of a corporate identity is the corporate structure. (Strong, 1987) According to Ind (1992) there exist two corporate identities, one that is the organisational structure and the other that is the visual structure. The Visual structure is concerned with the branding of the product, and how it appears to the consumers. (Gray Smeltzer, 1985 as cited in Melewar, T.C., Saunders, J., 1998). The basic concern with the visual structure is the degree of centralisation and decentralisation. Thus the basic problem faced by Vogue is whether to sell an identical product image to all its consumers or to make modifications as per the local differences. A global brand can be a mass brand satisfying a common product need in all the countries or it can be a brand catering to a common niche in all the countries. Vogue magazine has two options, being a global brand it could standardize the brand and the brand image across the globe so that the Indian woman reading the Indian Vogue would feel equal to the French or American woman reading their respective Vogues. The other option it has is to go local, differentiate between its offerings and treat each market as an individual and not a global product while standardising its visual image, giving the impression of a common brand. Researchers argue that standardisation of a brand helps the company to achieve a uniform image internationally which in turn increases sales.(Buzzell, 1968, Hovells Walters, 1972 as cited in Melewar, T.C., Saunders, J., 1998) . Others were of the opinion that standardisation makes consumers familiar with the product, its services, business diversities and competitive distinction thus helping to establish a uniform corporate image.(Peebles et al ,1977 as cited in Melewar, T.C., Saunders, J., 1998). Cosmopolitan for example is known around the globe to address personal and sex related issues as it does not change its editorials and articles depending on culture. The band logo/ font type, position or style does not differ according to geographical locations. The brand has achieved a sense of standardisation by not having a distinct country name printed on its cover unlike Vogue. The research on global corporate visual identity systems by T.C. Melewar and John Saunders (1998) proved that firms with highly standardised corporate visual identity systems (CVIS) saw themselves reaping more reward from their CVIS than did those with low CVIS standardisation. All custom

Albinism :: essays research papers

Albinism The word "albinism" refers to a group of inherited conditions. People with albinism have little or no pigment in their eyes, skin, or hair. They have inherited genes that do not make the usual amounts of a pigment called melanin. One person in 17,000 has some type of albinism. Albinism affects people from all races. Most children with albinism are born to parents who have normal hair and eye color for their ethnic backgrounds. Albinism is found on the eleventh chromosome, section q, loci 14-21. Oculocutaneous albinism involves the eyes, hair, and skin. Ocular albinism involves primarily the eye. People with ocular albinism may have slight lightening of hair and skin colors as well, compared to other family members. At present researchers have found 10 different types of oculocutaneous albinism, and five types of ocular albinism. Newer laboratory research studying DNA has shown that there are numerous types of changes in the genes of those with albinism, including within families. The most common types of oculocutaneous albinism are called "ty-negative" and "ty-positive". Persons with ty-negative albinism have no melanin pigmentation, and more difficulty with vision. Those with ty-positive albinism have very slight pigmentation, and generally less severe visual difficulties. Tests were done on the hair roots of individuals with albinism, to tell these types of albinism apart. However, these hair tests cannot identify types of albinism, particularly in young children, whose pigment systems are immature. Therefore hair tests are not helpful in predicting the extent of visual disability of a child. "Ty-Neg" (also called Type 1A) albinism results from a genetic defect in an enzyme called tyrosinase. Tyrosinase helps the body to change the amino acid tyrosine into pigment. The genetic defect that causes albinism in other types of albinism is unknown, but it is speculated that it involves other enzymes used to make pigment. Albinism is passed from parents to their children through genes. For nearly all types of albinism both parents must carry an albinism gene to have a child with albinism. Parents may have normal pigmentation but still carry the gene. When both parents carry the gene, and neither parent has albinism, there is a one in four chance at each pregnancy that the baby will be born with albinism. This type of inheritance is called autosomal recessive inheritance. If a parent has a child with albinism, it means the parent must carry the albinism gene. Until recently, unless a person has albinism or has a child with albinism, there was no way of knowing whether he or she carries the gene

Program Design of an Outpatient Adolescent Prevention Essay

The adolescence stage is often characterized as the stage of maturing from childhood to adulthood. This stage of maturing commonly occurs at the age of 12 for males and 14 for females. This is where significant developments in both physical and mental abilities of an individual begin to happen as early signs of puberty stage. This is the moment where a person or an individual starts to operate according to his or her own personal views in life and practice independence from their guardians. Furthermore, adolescence is the stage of trials where teenagers are expected to be active in doing things that differ from the usual, which will satisfy their urges due to their growing curiosity. Professionals normally define adolescence as the most critical stage of growing up. This is where an invidual experiences sudden changes in sexual drives, acquire mood swings, develop relationship with the opposite gender, and encounter different kinds of difficulties in shool and at home. Apart from these technical defiinitions of adolescence stage, it is also the stage where young people from 12 to 19 years old start to be involved in different types of substance abuse (Answers.com Health, 2008).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   There are different kinds of substance abuse that adolescence are faced with, namely, cigarettes,   alcohol, and drugs. These are the most popular substances of modern time amongst teenager. According to recent reasearch archives, data shows that alcohol and drug abuse are the most common substance that teenagers abuse. In 2006, there was 1.2 million adolescents from 12 to 17 years old who smoked cigerettes; 631,000 drank alcohol; and 586,000 experienced drug dependency (Focus Adolescent Services, 2008).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   This data clearly indicates that most of young individuals in the puberty stage are involved to these kinds of abuses. Figures mentioned show that drug abuse has the lowest percentage of abuse among the three substances. Continuous efforts and programs to decrease the number of adolescents involved in drug dependency is constantly needed because of the high potential hazardous effect it can cause to the life of young individuals.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Moreover, efforts and supportive programs are implemented over the years, considering the serious effect that drug abuse can cause on the lives of the youth. Because of the active campaign to battle adolescents’ drug dependency, success is evident in positive results that show the decreasig number of young ones involved in drugs.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   One effective way of treatment for adolescent drug dependency is by means of drug rehabilitation centers. This is the traditional method for treating drug dependency among individuals. These centers are characterized as the special environment for drug abusers coming from different backgrounds, who are advised to stay in the facility for a certain period of time to achieve the needed treatment for addiction. These treatments include detoxification and counselling for possible success of recovery from drug dependents (theraphistunlimited.com outpatient). In addition, drug rehabilitation centers gurantee to properly address the needed medications of drug addicts through effective programs conducted by professional doctors, psychiatrists and counsellors.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Aside from the traditional way of drug rehabilitation, another possible way to properly address the abuse of drugs among teenagers is through outpatient rehabilitation. This program has the same purpose of addressing needed medications for adolescent drug abusers. However, with this type of program, patients no longer need to stay inside the rehabilitation center to get needed attention from addiction to recover from drug abuse. Basically, outpatient rehabilitation is like a live-in residential program that is usually done at home (theraphistunlimited.com outpatient). Although outpatient program is advisable for minor cases only, it has a big potential to be as effective as the traditional rehabilitation center. With the proper formulation and implementation of this program for adolescents involved in drug abuse, outpatient program can be a reliable way to properly address drug abuse among teenager. Furthermore, this type of program is advisable to ensure continuous recovery of   the patient after undergoing treatment in a rehabilitation center (theraphistunlimited.com outpatient).   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In accordance with the concept of outpatient rehabilitation program, I designed a program design for outpatient adolescents who engage in drug abuse. This program is formulated to contribute on the ongoing campaign to lower the rate of adolescents that are suffering from drug abuse. The main objective of this program is to protect the adolescents from the risk of further deterioration of drug abuse. Drug dependency in the puberty stage is a critical issue that needs to be addressed. Nevertheless, this program will make its own contribution to ease the problem of drug abuse. It will focus on rehabilitative works for adolescents to further effect recovery from drug abuse and addiction. Outpatient rehabilitation may be advisable among adolescents with minor drug abuse only. However, the program will also serve as a safety measure to ensure the effectivity of the rehabilitation center towards full recovery of the patient. Furthermore, the target of this program are the teenagers who have undergone treatment in rehabilitation centers for treatment of drug abuse. With this design, adolescents will be advised to attend a program that will keep them interested to stay away from drugs and show them positive outcome of recovering from drug abuse.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   With the understanding that teenagers are having a hard time recovering from drug abuse, the design of this outpatient program will protect the iniatives done by the decisive adolescents to recover from drug abuse. Also, through this program, patients will get the guarantee of effective service to help regain composure as they start to work their way to be part of the community again. Furthermore, this program will work to maintain the momentum of affecting change towards full recovery of adolescents from drug abuse. Its service will be characterized as a further rehabilitative medication for adolescents.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   To be an effective outpatient rehabilitation program for adolescents, the program is composed of major features to address accordingly the needed treatment for drug abuse. First on the list is to empower family support. This is to explain to the family that their efforts and care is needed for the recovery of the patient. Second, the Comprehensive Education about drugs, which will give the patient the needed information about the proper use of drugs and its negative effect to the body if abused. With this, adolescents may understand that abusing drugs can cause serious effects in their health. Third is counselling and sessions with a former adolescent drug abuser who succesfully recovered from addiction. The primary purpose of which is to inspire the patient to work hard for recovery and instill positive views to stop drug abuse for a better life and future. Fourth is the Recretional Activity, which aims to give the patient a chance to be involved in various acitivities to regain confidence that will help him or her start a new life after engaging in drug addiction. Fifth is the Religious exercise. With this, adolescent drug abusers may realize the bright side of living a new life. Last of the features is regular check-ups of physician and psychiatrist to address proper medication and record the improvement of the patient. References   Focusas Adolescent (2008) Drugs and Teen Substance Abuse: Retrieved April 3 2008:   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   http://www.focusas.com/substanceabuse.html Narconon. (2007). What is a Drug Rehabilitation Center. Retrieved April 3 2008 from   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   http://www.narcononstonehawk.com/what_is_drug_rehab.php    theraphistunlimited.com outpatient(2008), Outpatient Drug Rehabilitation: Retrieved april 3, 2008   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   from http://therapistunlimited.com/index/Articles/Therapy+&+Rehab+Services/Outpatient Answers.com Health. (2008). Adolescence. Retrieved April 3, 2008, from   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   http://www.answers.com/topic/adolescence?cat=health

Grace Hopper’s Biography: A Great Pioneer in Data Processing

It was 1906 in New York City when the great pioneer in data processing, Grace Murray Hopper, was born to the parents Walter Fletcher Murray and Mary Campbell Horn Murray. Even as a young child Grace loved learning about mathematics and the new technological advances that were coming out, mostly because of her surrounding environment — her mother was a mathematician. Although at the time women were not considered as important to society as men were, she would turn out to be one of the most important influences of the century. In 1924 Grace attended Vassar College, majoring in the sciences, specifically mathematics and physics. After four years of hard work she graduated with Phi Beta Kappa honors and a Vassar College Fellowship. With that she progressed to earning her MA in mathematics at Yale University in 1930, and her Ph.D. in 1934, along with two Sterling Scholarships and an election to Sigma Xi. While finishing her college education she married the New York University English teacher Vincent Hopper. Her computer technology life would soon begin following her graduation. Upon graduating, Grace was accepted to the Bureau of Ordinance at Harvard University. That is when she was introduced to and assigned to work on Mark I — the first large-scale U.S. computer and precursor of electronic computers. Her first assignment with Mark I was to â€Å"have the coefficients for the interpolation of the arc tangents completed [in about one week]†Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ not a problem for Grace. She would then be the third person ever to program the Mark I. At that same time, the Mark I was being used to calculate the angles at which naval guns were to be aimed. Shortly after that a machine called BINAC was being developed which used the C-10 language. The C-10 according to Grace, â€Å"has been the basis for most codes since. ‘A' was add, ‘M' was multiply, ‘B' was bring, ‘C' was clear; it was a beautiful code.† Grace was then forced to teach herself octal arithmetic, since that is what the code was performed in. A sort time after that, many people started to believe a user-friendlier computer was needed. Grace got to work on it. Grace was credited with the first compiler in 1952, the A-0. The compiler was â€Å"a set of instructions that translated mathematical code into machine language.† Later on she produced the A-1 and the A-2, which were basically upgrades of the previous compiler. Her 1957 FLOW-MATIC compiler (or B-0) which was used mainly for business programs, was the first to translate English into the machine language. A later program in 1959-61 (COBOL) was based on her FLOW-MATIC and was used in the UNIVAC — the first commercial electronic computer. Grace Hopper was a hard working woman who â€Å"worked to attract industry and business interests to computers and to bridge the gulf between management and programmers.† After serving in the Navy from 1943 – 1986, during which she received the rank of rear admiral, she retired to take her final job as the senior consultant with Digital Equipment Association. Grace Hopper, the great pioneer in data processing and computer technology, died in 1992 at the age of 86.

The Rave Subculture essays

The Rave Subculture essays I walked into the dark room after paying the ten-dollar cover charge. The music was what I noticed first. It was very loud and made a ring linger in my ears. The music was house music, also known as techno or electronic music. The next thing I noticed was the people. The majority of them were young adults, anywhere from their late teens to early 20s. It wasnt the people I noticed so much, but how they were behaving. Most of them were dancing, but not just your typical dancing that you would see in most dance clubs. People were very close together and there was a lot of physical, euphoric interaction between them. They were dancing to the beat, almost together as one. Also moving the groove of the music were many lights of all different colors. Most people were dancing with glowsticks as well as other various kinds of lights. It was clear to me right away that the majority of the people inside the room were not sober but were under some kind of influence. I had walked in to the world of the rave. It was a Saturday night in Jacksonville, Florida. I was at a club in the Downtown area called 618. It opens at 10 p.m., a time when most other places are getting ready to close. The patrons there however, were just getting their night started. I walked around the club, observing as I walked. I saw people hugging a lot, giving each other massages or giving each other light shows. I asked a girl what the light show was for. Her name was Sara and she replied, The lights look really cool when youre rolling. Rolling is term most ravers use when are on the popular club drug ecstasy. Sara was 19 and dressed like a lot of the ravers I saw there. Loose shirts and baggy pants. She had jewelry on that looked almost like childrens jewelry. She said kids there who wore that kind of apparel were called candie ravers or candie kids. Ecstasy pills are made of a compoun...

Rujm el-Hiri (Golan Heights) - Ancient Observatory

Rujm el-Hiri (Golan Heights) - Ancient Observatory Sixteen kilometers east of the Sea of Galilee in the western part of the historic Bashan plain of the Golan Heights (a contested area claimed by both Syria and Israel) are the ruins of a most unusual structure, which scholars believe was built at least in part for archaeoastronomical purposes. Located at 515 meters above sea level, Rujm el-Hiri consists of a central cairn with a set of concentric rings encircling it. Built during the late Chalcolithic or Early Bronze Age about 5000 years ago, Rujm el-Hiri (also called Rogem Hiri or Gilgal Rephaim) is made of an estimated 40,000 tons of uncut black volcanic basalt field stones piled and wedged into between five and nine concentric rings (depending on how you count them), with heights reaching to 1 to 2.5 meters (3-8 feet) high. Nine Rings at Rujm el-Hiri The outermost, largest ring (Wall 1) measures 145 meters (475 feet) east-west and 155 m (500 ft) north-south. The wall measures consistently between 3.2-3.3 m (10.5-10.8 ft) thick, and in places stands up to 2 m (6 ft) in height. Two openings into the ring are currently blocked by fallen boulders: the northeastern measures some 29 m (95 ft) wide; the southeastern opening measures 26 m (85 ft). Not all of the internal rings are complete; some of them are more oval than Wall 1, and in particularly, Wall 3 has a pronounced bulge to the south. Some of the rings are connected by a series of 36 spoke-like walls, which make up chambers, and seem to be randomly spaced. At the center of the innermost ring is a cairn protecting a burial; the cairn and burial come after the initial construction of the rings by perhaps as long as 1500 years. The cairn is an irregular stone heap measuring some 20-25 m (65-80 ft) in diameter and 4.5-5 m (15-16 ft) in height. Dating the Site Very few artifacts have been recovered from Rujm el-Hiri, and no suitable organic materials have been recovered for radiocarbon dating. Based on what little artifacts were recovered, the earliest constructions were the rings during the Early Bronze Age, of the 3rd millennium BC; the cairn was built during the late Bronze Age of the late 2nd millennium. The huge structure (and a series of dolmens nearby) may be the origin of the myths of the ancient race of giants, mentioned in the Old Testament of the Judeo-Christian bible as led by Og, King of the Bashan. Archaeologists Yonathan Mizrachi and Anthony Aveni, studying the structure since the late 1980s, have another possible interpretation: a celestial observatory. Summer Solstice at Rujm el Hiri Recent work by Aveni and Mizrachi has noted that the entranceway to the center opens on sunrise of the summer solstice. Other notches in the walls indicate the spring and fall equinoxes. Excavations into the walled chambers did not recover artifacts indicating that the rooms were ever used either for storage or residence. Calculations of when the astronomical alignments would have matched stars supports the dating of the rings at having been built at about 3000 BC /- 250 years. The walls at Rujm el-Hiri seem to have pointed to star-risings for the period, and may have been predictors of the rainy season, a crucial bit of information for the sheep herders of the Bashan plain in 3000 BC. Sources This glossary entry is a part of the About.com guide to Astronomical Observatories, and the Dictionary of Archaeology. Aveni, Anthony and Yonathan Mizrachi 1998 The Geometry and Astronomy of Rujm el-Hiri, a Megalithic Site in the Southern Levant. Journal of Field Archaeology 25(4):475-496. Polcaro A, and Polcaro VF. 2009. Man and sky: problems and methods of Archaeoastronomy. Archeologia e Calcolatori 20:223-245. Neumann F, Schà ¶lzel C, Litt T, Hense A, and Stein M. 2007. Holocene vegetation and climate history of the northern Golan heights (Near East). Vegetation History and Archaeobotany 16(4):329-346.

Art on Japanese Art History Essay Example for Free

Art on Japanese Art History Essay How can the artistic medium one chooses to use to express oneself determine whether or not it is truly art? While digital artists’ artistic ability is often questioned and the credit is given to the computer being used, the art itself springs from the mind of the digital artist. I can say this with personal fervor: Digital art is truly in essence a form of art that merely takes advantage of the innovations of modern technology. Digital Art isn’t computer-generated. While it might involve using tools offered by specialized computer programs a computer doesn’t do the thinking for you, and the creative ideas put forth are of the artist’s mind. Digital artist’s only use computer tools to convey their designs, all of the creative credibility should be given to the artist himself. Should the canvas the Mona Lisa was painted on be considered the creator of the masterpiece or rather Leonardo Da Vinci? Painters that stick to canvas are limiting themselves to the paint they use and the cotton woven fibers of their canvas. Why purposely choose to ignore the modern day tools that are given to you and condescendingly look down upon those who choose to utilize them? Over the years, I have spent a lot of my own time experimenting in the depths of digital art. Many times, I have used the computer as a medium for self expression; from creating to pictures on Microsoft paint as a child to experimenting with specialized software such as Adobe Photoshop. I have a deep and passionate love for creating and expressing myself through artwork on the computer. I one day aspire to have a profession in the field of digital art, such as a Graphic Designer. Because of this, I am very offended by the comments I hear from â€Å"traditional artists† that condescend digital art for its use of the computer as the artistic medium. When I hear comments that degrade digital artwork to computer-generated images, as though the computer itself designed the art I feel enraged and cheated. The other day a friend of mine ignorantly explained to me that she could, given the proper software, create her own masterpiece without any prior experience in digital art, as though anyone if given the proper software could instantaneously create masterpieces, when really there is so much more to digital art than computer software or the computer itself. It’s about one’s individual artistic talents. To me that would be the equivalent of saying that if I were given a canvas and a paintbrush I could instantaneously create a masterpiece, which I know is false and ignorant. Art is â€Å"the use of skill and imagination in the creation of aesthetic objects, environments, or experiences that can be shared with others† (Britannica). Digital art is a general term for a range of artistic works and practices that use digital technology as an essential part of the creative and/or presentation process. There are many different employment fields in digital art. A couple of examples are graphic design and web design. Graphic design is the process and art of combining text and graphics and communicating an effective message in the design of logos, graphics, brochures, newsletters, posters, signs, and any other type of visual communication. Famous Graphic Designer, Milton Glaser, says â€Å"to design is to communicate clearly by whatever means you can control or master. † A graphic designer would meet with his/her clients and discuss the type of visual communication the client is interested in. The client may provide a general idea for the design, but the creative options are left for the designer to decide how to best portray the message of the client. The designer would then either sketch out a design to scan on to the computer for further alterations or go directly to the computer software in order to design the desired product. The designer would then verify with the client for satisfaction of the product. Web Design is the art and process of creating a single Web page or entire Web sites and may involve both the aesthetics and the mechanics of a Web site’s operation although primarily it focuses on the look and feel of the Web site – the design elements. â€Å"To be effective, the interfaces for online information systems must be as rich and flexible as the physical environments they replace. They must not only supply a direct path to reach the users goals, but must be able to accommodate different approaches to the task. This means that the interface design must not only organize the content for easy access, but must incorporate the right combination of technologies and interaction techniques to allow the user to work in their own style† (Quesenbery). A Web Designer would be sought out by a client in need of assistance in designing a website or website layout, usually for advertising and communicative purposes of the client. Like in Graphic design, the client may provide the designer with a general idea or guideline for the product, however, web designers must understand the dynamics of coding and html. Traditional art is understood to include things such as paintings, sculptures, and hand-drawings; basically any art which involves physical activity, usually of the hands. Famous Traditional Artists include: Leonardo DaVinci, Vincent Van Gough, and Andy Warhol. These artists use drawings and paintings as their forms of self expression which led to their innovative masterpieces: the Mona Lisa, Starry Night, and Pop Art, respectively. Traditional artists often look down upon the usage of the computer as the creative medium utilized when expressing oneself in art. Some believe that using a computer negates the creative ability of the artist and is the less credible form of art. Using computers in order to create art is sometimes seen as the easier method involving little artistic ability. â€Å"For artists diving into a new technology, it is a triple short-cut to mastery: you get a free ride on the novelty of the medium; there are no previous masters to surpass; and after a few weeks, you are the master† (Brand). There is a certain type of beauty in a hand-painted piece of art. The same is true for a masterfully drawn illustration. For this there is no substitute. Traditional art is the oldest form of art and could be considered the foundation of art. Many people consider this form of art to require the highest level of skill and creative ability, and that there is no other type of art form that can surpass it. There are a large number of people that believe this form of art is most vital, and that digital art simply shouldn’t be considered art due to the use of technology rather than their hands. Opponents of digital art argue that there is no skill in â€Å"pointing and clicking† on a computer screen. â€Å"I would rather choose the painting of a monkey over anything generated electronically, because I am more fascinated by the direct evidence of a mind at work than I am by the output of machines† (Glenn). Because of this belief, there is a good bit of animosity between the two different sects. Traditional artists feel as if they are protecting art in its truest form, whereas digital artists feel as if they are exposing the world to a newer and more advanced form of art infinitely full of possibilities. While traditional art is the older and more revered art form, that doesn’t mean that digital art is any less of an art. Both art forms require talent, precision, technique, and creativity from the artist. Digital artists are just as legitimate of artists as traditional artists. It is simply ignorant and petty to distinguish digital art as separate from true art in essence. Yes, computers are used as the medium for expression, however, like previously stated, that doesn’t mean that the computer creates the ideas and designs. The designs and creativity come from the artist and the computer is simply another way to release the idea from the artist’s mind, similar to a piece of paper or canvas. Digital art should be just as revered as traditional art because the amount of creativity and artistic ability is equal in both forms. Art on Japanese Art History. (2017, May 31). We have essays on the following topics that may be of interest to you

What are the possible legal implications of nationalisation ( Essay

What are the possible legal implications of nationalisation ( expropration) regarding foreign oned properties in International Law - Essay Example A discussion of the legal implications of nationalisation or expropriation of the property of foreign investors has been presented in this write up and this should be of interest to all those with an interest in international law and business. I hereby certify that, except where cited in the text, this work is the result of the research carried out by the author of this study. The main content of the study which has been presented contains work that has not previously been reported anywhere. This write-up is submitted in fulfilment for the requirements related to an essay on The Legal Implications of Nationalisation, or Expropriation, regarding Foreign Owned Properties in International Law. National governments, especially governments in the developing world, have been known to have tried to recover control of their own economy and to attempt to do that which will appear to be for their benefit by trying to nationalise, take or expropriate foreign owned business and property. 1 The expansion of Western economies since the nineteenth century has resulted in outflow of capital for investment into the developing world. However, with the formation of national governments after the granting of independence to the former colonies, the foreign business ownership arrangements came under pressure, with the nationalisation measures that had been taken by the former Soviet Union serving as an example for the newly independent states. 2 It has to be appreciated that although certain countries may feel that nationalisation or expropriation may serve in their best interest, the taking of foreign owned property by a host country poses a very significant risk to continued foreign inve stment. Not only is nationalisation, or the taking of private assets by public authorities, a deterrent to continued foreign investment, but it also raises significant issues in international law as

Project report Statistics Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Report - Statistics Project Example The value of the correlation coefficient between sales per square metre and number of part-timers is about 0.0501. This suggests a very weak (or negligible) positive linear relationship between sales per square metre and number of part-timers. As shown in figure 3, there appears a positive linear relationship between sales per square metre and total number of hours worked. The value of the correlation coefficient between sales per square metre and total number of hours worked is about 0.2630. This suggests a weak positive linear relationship between sales per square metre and total number of hours worked. Figure 4 shows the scatterplot between sales per square metre and sales floor space of the store. As shown in figure 4, there appears a negative linear relationship between sales per square metre and sales floor space of the store. The value of the correlation coefficient between sales per square metre and sales floor space of the store is about -0.2938. This suggests a weak negative linear relationship between sales per square metre and sales floor space of the store. Since, the value of the test statistic, t = 4.871 is greater than 1.966, we reject the null hypothesis, H0 and conclude that there is a significant relationship between sales and number of full-timers. Since, the value of the test statistic, t = 1.000 is in-between 1.966 and -1.966 (non-rejection region), we do not reject the null hypothesis, H0 and conclude that there is no significant relationship between sales and number of part-timers. Since, the value of the test statistic, t = 5.438 is greater than 1.966, we reject the null hypothesis, H0 and conclude that there is a significant relationship between sales and total number of hours worked. Since, the value of the test statistic, t = -6.132 is less than -1.966, we reject the null hypothesis, H0 and conclude that there is a significant

Article Assignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Article Assignment - Essay Example In twenty four hours, nearly everything valuable had been removed. Later casual vandalism began, with windows being shattered, and parts torn apart. The car became a playing ground for kids (Wilson &Kelling, 1982). Simultaneously, the car in Palo Alto, California stayed intact for over a week. When Zimbardo went up and deliberately shuttered a part of it using a sledgehammer, soon after, onlookers began to join in for the vandalism. In a few hours, the vehicle had been spun upside down as well as completely vandalized. In both places the vandals seemed respectable, well dressed clean-cut whites. It is deemed that within a neighborhood like Bronx wherein history of property abandonment as well as theft are much more prevalent, destruction can take place very rapidly since the neighborhood sends out a ‘no one cares’ vibe. Related events can take place within any civilized neighborhood once communal barricades- the feel of mutual obligations and regard of civility-are let d own by actions, which suggests ‘no one cares’. An effective stratagem for vandalism prevention is to fix problems while they are minimal. Repair a broken window within a brief time and the inclination is that miscreants are less likely to smash more windows. Clean-up the sidewalk daily, and the inclination is for garbage not to amass. ... Additionally, taking a property that does not belong to you is equal to stealing even though the property does not have the owner. Another change to the policy within neighborhoods and public schools is that people should be encouraged to report to the police any properties that are left untended. Such changes would be productive because they will aid in preventing people from committing activities that denotes that crimes such as vandalism are not illegal. The changes to the policies will impart new attitudes and moral practices that deter people and young people in engaging in illegal activities. The changes to the policies will be difficult to enact in an already established culture that dictates that any unattended properties belongs to everyone and any can do as they please with such a property (O’Malley,2007). References Chappell, A. &Lanza-Kaduce, L. (2004). Integrating sociological research and theory with community-oriented policing: Bridging the gap between academics and practice. Journal of Applied Sociology/Sociological Practice, 21(6), 80-98. Kelling, G. & Moore, M. (2008).The evolving strategy of policing. Perspectives on Policing. 4. Retrieved November 21, 2008 from US Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs National Institute of Justice, http://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/nij/114213.pdf O’Malley,T.J. (2007). Managing for ethics: A mandate for administrators.FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin, 66(4).Retrieved August 1, 2008 from http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m2194/is_n4_v66/ai_19569535/ Shevory, T. (2003). Organizational structure in American police agencies: Context, complexity, and control. A book review.Albany Suny Press, 13(8), 287. Retrieved November 17, 2008 from

The Motorcycle Company Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

The Motorcycle Company - Essay Example It is expected that the proposed budget will bring success for the company and will increase its market share tremendously. However, success of this project entirely depends upon the planning and implementation process, the concept and project of developing new and large motors for heavy vehicle is quite challenging because company is operating in an industry that is characterized by the production of small motors. Given below is the detailed analysis of procedures with the help of which we are going to achieve our goals. No2 Type of Required Staff Staffing is a function of Human Resources which incorporates the proper management of the workforce of an organization. Staffing involves all the steps required to create an efficient workforce for an organization and to maintain the efficiency of that workforce. Staffing incorporates all the functions of a human resource department from recruitment and hiring to evaluation, promotion and layoffs. Effective staffing is very important for t he growth and success of an organization (Ranne, 2011). It helps an organization get the best employees for all of its departments and this ensures higher productivity and better performance. Individuals of different technical and non-technical backgrounds were assigned to the pilot project team on either a full or part-time basis. Also, managers from both production and business departments were included to coordinate the effort and provide inputs to the project team. Each participant belonged to one or more of the five entities defined for the project: planning board, project board, project team, key stakeholders and key resources (see Fig. 1). The staffing will be based on the internal guidelines of the company for the production of new motors. Fig. 1: Project organization View Within Article The planning board will be responsible for the high-level effort and its strategic alignment with business processes. It will compose of an End-user designing and execution committee (EDEC), a planning manager, and the chief information officer (CIO) as its chair. EDEC provided related feedbacks on DWG from a business-user perspective. The project board will be responsible for overall practical planning, coordination, and evaluation of the project, with close cooperation from business customers in functional departments. Business customers were responsible for the validation of new motor models and follow-up on modeling issues specific to business requirements. The board consisted of a planning manager as the project sponsor and liaison between the boards, a technical representative, and three representatives from customer departments. Since business units of the company were organized according to three customer levels (individual, group, and corporate), one representative from each customer level participated in the project board. According to the internal guidelines, key stakeholders should be people whose departments will be affected by the implementation of large motors. In this project, however, because of the crucial importance of stakeholders’ role, they were directly involved in the planning and project boards. No3 Team building Strategies Team building is an important and crucial part

Cultural differences in business life between Germany and USA Essay

Cultural differences in business life between Germany and USA - Essay Example In most situations, people do not realize how their own behavior is affected by culture. This is because of the closeness to it and the assumption that everyone is just like them. They expect others to do everything in a manner similar to their own. Communication refers to encoding and sending of a message with proper representation. Message can be verbal, written, non-verbal, and musical form. These various forms of representations have unspoken rules that can cause significant misinterpretations if not properly understood. An individual from a different culture with varied values and rules can cause danger to any encoding. This problem is intensified by the fact that a given message depends on the receiver’s perception and not what the presenter thought. Foster (1992) attest that in conducting daily operations in the business world, communication is considered an important factor. Therefore, when dealing with people of different culture in business, proper considerations should be put in place. These include proper understanding of diverse cultures and ability to handle the various challenges of language barriers. Hofstede (2001) said that most business deals do not mature because prior to interaction, one or both of the parties was not committed to learn cultures of the different individuals involved. To be successful in business life, every individual has to consider the following: proper understanding of different ways in which behavior and business impacts culture. Secondly, major cultural dimensions should be properly understood. Thirdly, individuals should be keen on their own culture and raise awareness about it. Fourthly, and individual should clearly know the different scenarios where their own culture preference can conflic t with that of other people. Fifth, key skills and competencies that boost international success should be identified. Finally, every individual should be sensitive of existing traps and ways to overcome them. 2.0 Cultural diversity In the 21st century, cultural diversity is common in most of the management topics. For proper management, effective communication needs to be in place (Hall, 1959). This requires proper understanding of different cultures of individuals involved. All forms of communication are directly impacted by culture. According to Hall and Hall (1990), individuals view their culture as normal. When they come across people from other different cultures, they are amazed by the unique behaviors. In order to have a clear understanding of diverse perspectives, it is important to have cross-cultural awareness (Hall, 1976; Harris and Robert, 2000). This way, an individual will be able to develop respect for other varied cultures hence suspension of judgment. This knowledg e will boost different business interaction in different situations and localities. It is also important for individuals to know that one approach will not be effective in all given circumstances. 3.0 Comparison of the cultural differences among the Americans and the Germans In business conversation, Hendon et al (1999) and Mattock (2003) revealed that Germans are known to emphasize on content and understates emotions and personal relationships. They respect honesty and openness and prefer using various examples. The fact that Germans give more details results from the detailed explanations

Practical report Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Practical report - Essay Example The contents include fats, carbohydrates and proteins. The enzymes that break apart DNA are thereafter destroyed (Bruns 2007, 50). DNA content is then separated from other cell components. The researcher then precipitates the DNA and re-suspends it in a solution suitable for its studies. When extracting DNA from the cheek cells, saline solution used to rinse the mouth helps to prevent the cells extracted from splitting open or lysing too soon. Centrifugation separates the cheek cells from mouth wash used (Johannson 1972, 39). Spinning the mixture in a centrifuge settles the heavier cells to the bottom of the tube to form pellets. Saline solution pours away, leaving the clumped cheek cells at the bottom of the tube. Lysis buffer added to the cell clump splits open the cells to release DNA from inside the nucleus. The buffer contains soap that dissolves and breaks fatty membranes of the cells, buffer that maintains the pH of the solution and ions that increase osmotic pressure outside the cheek cell and aids in ripping open the cell membrane. Incubation in hot water helps denature cytoplasmic enzymes that break up DNA. Concentrated salt solution changes polarity of the solution under study. DNA elements dissolve in ionic solutions. This is as opposed to other components of the solution; proteins, carbohydrates and fats. ... The process is additionally useful in assessing and distinguishing the variable sizes of alleles. This discerning of allele sizes best takes place with the DNA strands placed at a single locus. Gel Electrophoresis also assesses the quantity and quality of DNA that is present in a sample (Komrakova 2006, 51). This method separates chemical molecules and compounds by charge and size. Substances that are separated are stationed in wells in the agarose gel and an electric field applied. Positively charged molecules and compounds move towards the negative terminal while the negatively charged particles and compounds move towards the positive anode. Larger and longer particles experience difficulty in moving across the mixture to the positive or negative terminal, and are suspended in the gel matrix. Smaller and shorter molecules move easily through the agarose gel matrix and take positions according to their polarity. When strained, the small sized segments form a tight band as they move at relatively the same speed. Type of medium and concentration of the gel determines the gel’s pore size and its ability to segregate same sized fragments. While polyacrylamide gels separate DNA segments differing by a base pair, agarose gels separate fragments of DNA differing by hundreds or more base pairs. Combs forming wells are placed into the gel as it solidifies and cools. The combs are then removed after the gel solidifies. Students can use gel electrophoresis in determining quality and quantity of the DNA matter they extract from their cheek cells. In day-to-day applications, the method is useful in fingerprinting or profiling, DNA sequencing and genetic

Cultural differences in business life between Germany and USA Essay

Cultural differences in business life between Germany and USA - Essay Example In most situations, people do not realize how their own behavior is affected by culture. This is because of the closeness to it and the assumption that everyone is just like them. They expect others to do everything in a manner similar to their own. Communication refers to encoding and sending of a message with proper representation. Message can be verbal, written, non-verbal, and musical form. These various forms of representations have unspoken rules that can cause significant misinterpretations if not properly understood. An individual from a different culture with varied values and rules can cause danger to any encoding. This problem is intensified by the fact that a given message depends on the receiver’s perception and not what the presenter thought. Foster (1992) attest that in conducting daily operations in the business world, communication is considered an important factor. Therefore, when dealing with people of different culture in business, proper considerations should be put in place. These include proper understanding of diverse cultures and ability to handle the various challenges of language barriers. Hofstede (2001) said that most business deals do not mature because prior to interaction, one or both of the parties was not committed to learn cultures of the different individuals involved. To be successful in business life, every individual has to consider the following: proper understanding of different ways in which behavior and business impacts culture. Secondly, major cultural dimensions should be properly understood. Thirdly, individuals should be keen on their own culture and raise awareness about it. Fourthly, and individual should clearly know the different scenarios where their own culture preference can conflic t with that of other people. Fifth, key skills and competencies that boost international success should be identified. Finally, every individual should be sensitive of existing traps and ways to overcome them. 2.0 Cultural diversity In the 21st century, cultural diversity is common in most of the management topics. For proper management, effective communication needs to be in place (Hall, 1959). This requires proper understanding of different cultures of individuals involved. All forms of communication are directly impacted by culture. According to Hall and Hall (1990), individuals view their culture as normal. When they come across people from other different cultures, they are amazed by the unique behaviors. In order to have a clear understanding of diverse perspectives, it is important to have cross-cultural awareness (Hall, 1976; Harris and Robert, 2000). This way, an individual will be able to develop respect for other varied cultures hence suspension of judgment. This knowledg e will boost different business interaction in different situations and localities. It is also important for individuals to know that one approach will not be effective in all given circumstances. 3.0 Comparison of the cultural differences among the Americans and the Germans In business conversation, Hendon et al (1999) and Mattock (2003) revealed that Germans are known to emphasize on content and understates emotions and personal relationships. They respect honesty and openness and prefer using various examples. The fact that Germans give more details results from the detailed explanations

Prevention Is Better Than Cure Essay Example for Free

Prevention Is Better Than Cure Essay Health is valuable present for human life. People can have money, houses, some luxurious things but they cannot buy health. Once geting a serious disease, everything becomes nothing immediately. So I agree with the point that â€Å" Prevention is better than cure†. This proverb advise everybody to care themselves before too late to save their lives. One person just has one life. People all know this definition but not many ones can adjust their lives to live healthier. It is the key point. People always lives with a easily way until a disease is found out. It has to say that cure is the last step to make your body out of danger. Some years ago, I evidenced my friend got a serious disease and the doctors hardly saved her life. According to her mother, she often stayed up late, had an unstable daily habits and was under stress. She got a costly experience of how to value the prevention. With the importance of health, health education and preventative measures need to be concerned. Today, money mainly is invested in some large health’s budget to cure diseases. But I think if people know how to protect themselves from diseases through health education, no need much money for curing anymore. So the investment for health education and preventive measures are as important as saving one life. In reality, it is fewer courses which supply information about the health knowledge are held. Otherwise, a lot of hospitals have been build. With this point of view, people more and more depend on hospitals while they do not know that they can cure themselves just through health knowledge. However, no one can ignore the importance of hospitals and doctors. They have existed to save people’s lives. Born, grow up, grow old and die is a life cycle; it is true that in some point of life, people will get disease and die. Hence, hospitals really play an important role in that situation. In conclusion, I consider that prevention is the first step for people to avoid diseases. So much more investment into providing health knowledge and presentative measures to people is necessary.

Hotel PESTEL and SWOT Analysis

Hotel PESTEL and SWOT Analysis Hotel X operates in a fragmented industry largely controlled by the guests and their preferential needs. The strategic audit involved analyzing; the macro-environment by the PESTEL model, the competitive industry environment by the Porters Five Forces model, the key stakeholders expectations and the internal strengths and weaknesses. This SWOT analysis concludes the strengths (products, brand, people, VmV and accreditation/certification), the weaknesses (location, classic rooms, car parking, performance management and technology), the opportunities (BRIC, Rugby World Cup 2011, market demographics, corporate responsibility pressure, and the 90 day trial period law) and the threats (new National, Conference Centre, long-term contracts with buyers/suppliers, economy, and technology). Hotel X should plan its strategy around differentiation by providing the highest quality products and services unique from the rest of the industry. Improving the hotels weaknesses is a realistic way to improve the growth and profitability for the organization. Recommendations are provided for the improvement of Hotel Xs weaknesses. Contents Introduction If you dont know where your business is going, any road will get you there. (TÃÅ"VRheinland Group). Business strategy is a driving force in the success of organizations; as long as the strategy for the organization is analyzed in terms of the environments. This paper is a strategic analysis of the environments for Hotel X  [1]  . Company Background Hotel X is a leading hotel in Auckland. The services and products provided include accommodation, food and beverage, event venues, spa and health club facilities. Their aim is to grow market share and profitability by maintaining 5 star level services  [2]  . This is supported by Hotel Xs vision statement: Know Our Guests, Build Great Memories. Industry Description: Definition and Drivers Hotel X is positioned in the high-end  [3]  hotel  [4]  industry within Auckland City  [5]  . The hotel industry is a sub-section of the Travel and Tourism industryone of the most rapidly expanding fields (Go Pine, 1995, p. 26). It is a fragmented industry as hotels are driven by the services they provide and the consumers they can attract. Factors that influence this consumer selection are; the location of the hotel, the facilities available, the price per night and the size of the facility. High-end hotels in Auckland compete for independent and corporate travelers, both domestic and international. Macro-Environment Analysis The PESTEL model was used for analysing opportunities and threats to Hotel X and the summary of the major factors can be found in Appendix 2. (P)olitical Factors New Zealand general elections may bring changes to government and influencing legislation. Trade agreements have a positive correlation with tourism. Securing trade agreements with BRIC would create significant growth in business. (E)conomic Factors With overseas economies in recession, the declining New Zealand dollar  [6]  , the increase in fuel costs and the GST increase, it is more expensive for people visiting New Zealand. There is a decrease in the reliance on overseas visitors and income. There will be short-term growth with the Rugby World Cup 2011.While this would only be a small injection over the months of September/October, there is potential for resulting growth in returning guests. (S)ocial Factors Consumer opinions on products and services can quickly build or diminish a brand and company image. The increasing use of social media to gain access to this information can be dangerous to growth for companies who do not monitor and maintain brand standards. The impact of economic factors is seen in the demographics of the Auckland market. The strong short-haul markets can be a benefit as they buffer the industry during periods of significant reduction in long-haul markets (New Zealand Hotel Council). (T)echnological Factors Innovation potential is held back by having to balance the needs of the guests verses what they are prepared to pay for. Technology does not replace personal touches, but allows for storage of information on the preferences of guests. Auckland hotels need to upgrade their services when compared to international standards in order to maintain consumer expectations (Hotel Technology Resource, 2011). (E)nvironmental Factors There is increasing pressure to be environmentally responsible. The pressure has created organizations such as EarthCheck who provide certifications to organizations meeting particular requirements  [7]  and Qualmark with their Enviro Assured Grading System  [8]  . Increasingly some consumers will only engage with companies which hold particular certifications. (L)egal Factors Current union negotiations will determine the requirements of the hotels towards their employees, the impact of this will be determined after the negotiations. The 90 day trial period in employment law allows companies to employ people best suited for positions. The best employees in the best positions increases efficiency, productivity, satisfaction and general wellbeing thus reducing costs to the company. Competitive Industry Analysis The Porters model  [9]  was used for analysing the industry competition for Hotel X and the summary of the major factors can be found in Appendix 9. Threat of New Entrants Hotel X has one of the largest function rooms in Auckland with capacity of 1500. This attracts some of New Zealands significant functions such as the upcoming Rugby World Cup Prize giving. The proposed National Convention Centre will threaten Hotel Xs long-term market share of functions. Bargaining Power of Suppliers Employees provide most of the service for guests. Hotel suppliers do not hold much power, there are often a large number of suppliers available. Many high-end hotels have contracts with taxi companies. The cost of switching these contracts is high. Bargaining Power of Buyers Hotels provide the same item to the same market so need a strong brand to differentiate from competition. There are limited times that customers basic needs cannot be met  [10]  . There are large numbers of corporate travelers who stay in a hotel that they have long-term contracts with. Hotel X may struggle to renew its contract with Telecom due to Telecoms move to the lower CBD. Power of Substitutes The threat of substitutes depends on the demands of the customer. As most guests wanting to stay in high-end hotels are expecting quality over cost, it could be expected that substitutes to this industry do not pose a large threat. Intensity of Industry Rivalry The strong industry growth in the tourism sector (Go Pine, 1995) should mean that there is a low rivalry amongst hotels as there are an increasing number of guests. However, the products that hotels provide are identical on a basic level (the quality may vary) and this low differentiation and ease switching leads to a strong competition. Stakeholder Analysis The expectations of the individuals and groups that influence the business strategy for Hotel X are summarized in Appendix 11. The strategy for Hotel X was developed by the director and is entwined with his personal values; his dedication to the organization ensures he retains control over strategy and growth. The guests and clients of Hotel X may see the hotel as important to them during their short term relationship however only the business clients and guests who are engaging with the organization on a regular basis hold any importance for quality service on a long-term basis. Attitudes of the employees are orientated around providing quality service but the importance of the hotel to them is more for the opportunity of employment it provides. Hotel X understands the importance of the media in providing marketing opportunities however the media do not have the same inverse need. Hotel X is also not of large importance for the local government as, while the hotel provides local taxes and jobs, it does not have any impact on the growth of local government revenue. The attitudes of this stakeholder are consistent with the hotel on factors like environmental responsibility however not consistent with profit factors. Organizational Capabilities (S)trengths Hotel Xs products hold value between price paid and quality received. The products; 411 rooms, four food and beverage outlets, spa and facilities, twelve function venues, all set 5 star standards and are upgraded as ideas develop. There is strong marketing of the Hotel X brand in the industry as luxury and elegance. The concept is carried through media, including social media which is heavily monitored to increase positive brand awareness. The multiple ethnicities of the 400 employees mean guest communication has become less problematic. Hotel X has used the Vision, mission and Values (VmV) to create a positive employee culture. Hotel X holds multiple accreditations including; Best Hotel from New Zealand Scenic Tours, Studiosus Award, and World Travel Awards, the Innovation/Sustainability Award from NZ Hotel Conference, EarthCheck Silver Status  [11]  , and Qualmark Gold Status  [12]  . (W)eaknesses Hotel X in the upper CBD is a distance from city activities. While the hotel provides a shuttle around town, there is not the flexibility (or views) as a prime city location. The classic rooms have yet to be updated These rooms are of the same size as executive rooms but the dà ©cor is dated and not up to the same 5 star standard as the other products provided. The hotel does not provide car parks for employees or guests except for valet parking. The city location makes it is expensive to park in nearby buildings. Public transport is limited. The processes in place for performance management are limited. Short term management is strong with recognition programs but the link is missing to annual reviews/promotions, future goals are not quantified. Hotel X limits its market by not yet having wireless internet available throughout the hotel. Technology is an area that would improve guest satisfaction and productivity. Conclusion The summary of the SWOT analysis can be referred to in Appendix 12. Hotel X, seeks high levels of growth and profitability. While the product, brand and people are strengths, there is an issue keeping services consistent without good performance management. Organizations now have the advantage of a 90 day trial period to maximize the job-person fit in the organization which should correlate to lower costs and higher profitability. The location of Hotel X will place a limitation on the growth of the organization. The current products that the hotel provides are strengths. The 5 star quality of these products and services create value for guests. There are some weaknesses however with the dà ©cor of the Classic rooms, lack of car parking and limited use of technology. The hotel needs to remain on top of new innovations to ensure the products and services are continuously upgraded. Hotel X has the opportunity of the growing BRIC market and the upcoming Rugby World Cup. It plans to service these growth opportunities while still maintaining a hold in the domestic markets as a buffer to the threat of the economy restricting international tourism. The generic strategy that Hotel X should follow is differentiation. Already Hotel X has started to differentiate their product from the industry as supported by the strength of its accreditations and certifications. It is possible for Hotel X to differentiate not only through the strength of its products but also its people and the Vision, Mission and Values. The strong brand and opportunity for recognition of corporate responsibility will allow Hotel X to develop a dominant position. The threat to this is the competitiveness of the industry difficulties with long-term contracts and the threat of a National Conference Centre. Recommendations These recommendations will focus on improving the weaknesses of Hotel X, Performance management schemes for employees should be introduced to maintain 5 star standards, as services the hotel provides involve guest/employee interaction. Goals set to manage performance must be decided on jointly between organization and employee in order to empower colleagues. Special salary and wage reviews should be initiated as well as an incentive scheme based around achieving key performance indicators. The classic room product needs to be redecorated to maintain product consistency to satisfy customer requirements. Technology in particular, a hotel wide Wi-Fi system needs to be developed, to keep up with 5 star international standards. Car parking needs to be addressed by negotiating with Wilson Parking to either take back the management of the car park or rent additional car parks. The extra car parks would have to satisfy the guest needs first. Location is one weakness that cannot be changed so the best recommendation for this is to increase the areas the shuttle bus drives to and renegotiating the taxi contract so that fares are cheaper for guests going between the upper and lower CBD.

Quest for Knowledge in Milton’s Paradise Lost - How Much can Humans Kno

Quest for Knowledge in Milton’s Paradise Lost - How Much can Humans Know? â€Å"There are more things in heaven and earth, Horatio, / Than are dreamt of in your philosophy† (Shakespeare II.i.166-67). So Hamlet tells Horatio when he marvels at the spectre of the ghost. Hamlet is telling his friend that science and natural philosophy can only account for so much. A point comes when humans cannot rationalize or prove certain events. In Paradise Lost , Raphael tells Adam similar sentiments when Adam questions him on the nature of the universe in Book VIII. However, Raphael goes on to warn Adam not to ponder deeply things that he can never know fully. This type of curiosity and desire for learning only leads to sin. Yet, while Raphael is warning Adam not to think of these things, he himself speculates on the nature of the universe, planting ideas in Adam’s mind he did not have before. These ideas concern the theories of Ptolemy, Copernicus, and Galileo, much in dispute in Milton’s time. Though Milton seems to advance the Ptolemaic theory of the universe in Paradise Lost , the debate over which system Milton truly believed in is not the most important aspect of Raphael and Adam’s discussion in Book VIII. Knowledge is the true topic. What and how much can humans know? Knowledge is the cornerstone of Paradise Lost . Adam and Eve must not eat the fruit of the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil. Satan pinpoints Adam and Eve’s vulnerability in their ignorance of evil. Adam worries that he may seek knowledge that displeases God. Raphael praises Adam’s thirst for knowledge and warns him about obsessively seeking knowledge that is useless. Eve eats the fruit because she wants to know how ... ... the universe spends so much time circling the earth. 3 In Book VIII of Paradise Lost, Raphael discusses the source of the moon’s light (140-58). 4 â€Å"And now / [Adam] led on, yet sinless, with desire to know† (Paradise Lost VII.60-01). Works Cited Hughes, Merritt ed. John Milton: Complete Pomes and Major Prose. New York: Macmillan, 1957. Marjara, Harinder Singh. Contemplation of Created Things: Science in "Paradise Lost". Toronto: University of Toronto Press, 1992. Milton, John. Paradise Lost ed. Alastair Fowler, Second Edition. London: Longman, 1998. Nicolson, Majorie Hope. A Reader's Guide to John Milton. Syracuse: Syracuse University Press, 1998. Shakespeare, William. Hamlet. Ed. Cyrus Hoy. 2nd ed. New York: Norton, 1992. Williamson, George. ed. Milton: Formal Essays and Critical Asides. Cleveland: Case Western Reserve Univ. Press, 1970.