A Mat Rempit is a Malaysian term

A Mat Rempit is a Malaysian term for â€Å"an individual who participates in illegal street racing†, usually involving underbone motorcycles (colloquially known as Kapcai) or scooters. Not all Mat Rempits are involved in street racing; some of them perform crazy stunts for fun, such as the wheelie, superman (lying flat on the seat), wikang, and scorpion (standing on the seat with one leg during a wheelie),or shuttu le katti. Mat Rempits usually travel in groups and race in bustling city centres on weekend nights.In recent times, Mat Rempits have been linked to gangsterism, gang robbery,[1][2] street fighting, assault,[3] vandalism, theft and bullying. Most motorcycles used by the Mat Rempits do not meet standard specifications, or have been modified extensively for greater speed, or just to make the exhaust noisier. Additionally, some Mat Rempits do not have valid motorcycle licenses, do not pay road taxes, and ride stolen motorcycles. [4][5] A growing number of housing estate s have also been turned into racing tracks. 6] It is estimated that there are about 200,000 Mat Rempits in Malaysia. [7] In some other countries, the term Mat Rempit is also used, but more to refer to one as a motorcycle lover or rider (Mat Motor), as opposed to an illegal motorcycle racer. Sometimes, the term â€Å"Mat Rempit† is misused to refer to any individual who rides an underbone motorcycle. Related to this is the Mat Konvoi, which claim to be the non-racing version of Mat Rempit.

Paper on the Movie “Crash” Essay

The movie crash is a combination of many different things including labeling theory. Crash is not just a movie about car crashes, but also of cultures and values. There are several intertwined lives and personal relationships with a common point of prejudice involving ethnic issues. The narrative is circular, as the film’s message about racial discrimination develops as a snowball, the director Paul Haggis shows us how prejudice is the most central issue. The political crime that is shown on the film gives the audience an understanding of how betrayed a civilian can be by the law enforcers. Racist ideologies are perpetuated through discourse, actions and even of misunderstanding. It is possible to understand the interconnected nature of each core characters and how a certain attitude interferes with a subsequent event among others. The racial profiling is also seen extremely harshly. Being in the 21st century these things are overlooked, but there are still many people who classify people because of their race and what they look like. The characters in Crash are shown in their humanity attitudes sometimes negligible, sometimes admirable. The film is far from a Manichaeism to address the issue that no human being is totally good or totally bad by nature. The cop played by Matt Dillon takes contrasting positions – its portrayed both in times of abuse of his position of authority, to take advantage of Christine (Thandie Newton), as in heroics, saving the same girl in a traffic accident. People who condemn the prejudice facing black people can be absolutely phobic about the Arabs or Latinos. Behaviors are variable according to the circumstances and, therefore, can not judge a person independent of them. The different ethnicities also portray minority groups which are barely hanging on by a thread in society, we see this mainly in the Arab family. People with certain ethical values succumb before a higher offer, a personal benefit exactly like status inconsistency. Detective Graham Waters (Don Cheadle) is adamant in his ideals, but when given the opportunity to save his brother delinquent, he gives up his own principles and â€Å"sells itself† in favor of a family gain. That was a perfect example of people’s status changing consistently. Crash deals with ethnic prejudice analyzing multiple variables and deepening both motivations as consequences. The discrimination against any racial group, is present deep within every character in the movie. The nurse Shaniqua Johnson, black, shows anger on receiving the trespasses officer Ryan (Matt Dillon), but on another occasion directs all his hatred of a particular group of immigrants. Even those who at first appears to be incorruptible, as Officer Hansen (Ryan Phillippe), being disgusted by the racist behavior explicit companion Ryan, in the end, ends up having a prejudice outlook. His values may not have changed but his vision of morality changes because of the people he has been surrounded with. Rationally, condemns discrimination of fellow, but when the situation is outside the limits of rationality and asks for a quick response, intuitive, Hansen suspects the black who gives a ride and, a movement that seems suspicious, you know that is under threat and shoots. Even those who fight and seems strongly supported by human values, can not escape an ingrained prejudice, supported by education in a racist society. How could it be, Crash also addresses the role of the media through the character of Cameron (Terrence Howard), director of television. Cameron is forced to redo a scene where a black actor spoke without slang characteristics and therefore fled to their stereotype. By repeating the scene, also repeated a pattern of behavior expected for a black. Cameron, who holds a certain power to work in a vehicle of communication is cut off the possibility of spreading a change in society or at least not condoning what he considers to be wrong. Even when a black occupies a prominent position and has the possibility to intervene, larger forces interfere with his freedom of action and he finds himself with his hands tied. Overall it was a great film to watch. I was completely surprised by how explicit it was and how it showed even in the first 8 minutes of the movie how race and ethnicity sort of control everything. People who don’t want to discriminate are in fact prejudice and surprised by the fact that they are. The characters in the movie change and evolve, which was good to see because it means that with time less and less people can be discriminating, it just all depends on how they are raised and their beliefs; nature vs nurture debate has all of this taken into consideration.

Causes of Disequilibrium in the economy

Causes of Disequilibrium in the economy Economists usually define general disequilibrium as the state in which contrasting market forces of supply and demand fail to reach a balance and there exist an intrinsic inclination for change. The main indicator of market disequilibrium is the continuation of shortages either in the demand or supply side of the economy. There are two main models that hold divergent views concerning disequilibrium namely the classical and Keynesian models   [ 1 ]   . Causes of disequilibrium Generally, the major causes for disequilibrium in the markets if the deficiencies created either in the aggregate demand or aggregate supply side of the economy. This means that in such circumstances the market does not clear. Main causes of disequilibrium are understood in the light of the economic model s followed by scholars. For instance, the Keynesian theory’s causes differ from that of classical economists. For instance, following Keynesians’ view, disequilibrium arises when there are di sparities between leakages and injections where as classical economists argue that if such cases arise, price always adjust to bring the economy back to equilibrium.   [ 2 ]    In the above diagram, equilibrium occurs at point P2-Q2 where AD2= AS. At that point, the economy is at full employment. Below this point the economy is in disequilibrium whereby it is operating below full employment. Keynesian theory’s view s about disequilibrium Keynesian theory is the widely used model that explains the general equilibrium using the IS-LM model. Keynesian model construe that markets may not be self-adjusting therefore the markets would not lead to full employment equilibrium if the economy is left to self-regulate. Keynes used the income-expenditure theory to explain the concept of disequilibrium and full employments. He came up with a detailed analysis of the functions of money, functions of interest rates as well as the aspect of relative prices. Keynesian theory postulates th at equilibrium usually occurs below the full employment level. Keynes argued that constant equilibrium cannot prevail due to the existence of involuntary unemployment.   [ 3 ]    In the commodity markets, Keynesians clearly outlines the major disparities that usually reinforce a state of disequilibrium. They compare the aggregate expenditure which includes household consumption, investment function as well as government spending with the effective demand. They postulate that when the economy operates below the intersection of the two, it means there is an imbalance/disequilibrium.   [ 4 ]    Keynesians denied the supply side of the classical economists. Keynes stated that firms should be given the supply schedule so that they can demand smaller amounts than the existing national demand schedule. Keynes explained the causes of disparities in supply and demand separately. According to him, supply creates income. He postulated that what people produce is the one which is bought therefore supply’s value at all times equals the income value. The income is spent by the earners in consumption of more goods. Keynesian economists advocate an increase in government spending when the economy is below full employment in order to stimulate the economy.   [ 5 ]    Classical economists Classical economists holds the notion that markets are self regulatory which is opposite of Keynesian views. They construe that whenever disequilibrium state occurs between the leakages and the injections, prices usually adjusts to re-establish the general equilibrium. They held assumption that there prices are flexible savings are equal to investments as well as embracing the say’s law which states that supply creates its own demand. Explaining the aspect of disequilibrium through say’s law, classical theorists construe that aggregate production in the economy have to create sufficient income that to buy all units of income, failure to which disequilibrium occ ur.   [ 6 ]

Business Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 3

Business Management - Essay Example In order to increase the volume for offerings in the business flooring, the company should consider exploration of possible efficient promotional activities. Market leadership after all is concerned about creating a need for certain product and service offerings (Kotler et al., 1999; Boone and Kurtz, 2006).Considering that the mentioned company in the case is placing higher mark up with its paint business, it is good to start the promotional activity in here in order to create more demands for both flooring and paint offerings. In this specific situation, the company should initiate a strategy such as when the customers purchased higher volume of flooring materials, the prices of paint should be lowered utilizing its higher mark up. This would ensure that the sales of paints would increase and thus its profit while increasing the disposed volume for flooring materials. This is just a matter of creating a need for product or service offerings, which is a form of market leadership. Another important factor is internal which primarily considers the human resource. Control of manpower is important because it ensures corporate success especially high value for customers at the bottom line (Moeller, 2010). As stated in the case, the management and installers usually have conflict when it comes to payment which ends up with customer delays and shoddy works. This is not going to be healthy for the said company in the long run, most especially in building customer relationship. This could not substantially provide them with effective output in providing high value for customers and in the long run this would further result to lower revenue and eventually a slow down of business. The issue in here is not just about financial control, but it substantially involves the right approach to be initiated with effective handling of human resource. The human resource needs to be substantially controlled because it affects how the

Britannia Bridge ( Menai Strait, wales ) Research Paper

Britannia Bridge ( Menai Strait, wales ) - Research Paper Example Alternatively, contained in the research is the civilization behind the project, the culture, and the contribution it must have made to the built environment. A critical analysis of the actual construction and the materials used has been used to assist in the generation of a what-if analysis of a scenario of the project being built today. Great bridge works in history are perhaps an inspiration for the construction of more exhilarating works in today’s and in the future needs. It goes without saying that great future construction works such as the envisioned Transatlantic Tunnel will build a lot on the past successful works of a similar challenge. Linking some of the most successful earliest construction projects that will spur growth in this built environment sector brings into the minds of engineers the contribution that suspension and tube bridges make. In European construction history, some of the earliest bridges of this nature to be constructed and that studies can reveal useful insights on their engineering cannot ignore the great Welsh works. In this discourse, the Britannia Bridge that connects the Anglesey Island with mainland of the country is analyzed to reveal the intricate details of the project from construction to completion and reconstruction (Anglesey Mon Information, 1). For purposes of comp arison of factors, the geography of the area around the bridge is briefly discussed, with explanation of why a bridge was needed. A mention of a second bridge serving the same purpose as the Britannia Bridge is made with a brief explanation of its construction aspects enabling comparison with the main bridge of discussion. In the mid 19th century, it was perhaps very unimaginable to have a tube bridge connecting an island with the mainland but in 1826, the Menai Bridge was completed. Its capacity was overstretched over the years and it became clear that as the flow of important cargo and

Paradoxical Nature Of Organizational Culture, As Incorporating Essay

Paradoxical Nature Of Organizational Culture, As Incorporating Elements Of Both Stability And Change - Essay Example These paradoxes, according to popular opinion are a consequence of socially constructed management discourses, whereby concepts such as change and flexibility, centralization and decentralization, flexibility and control etc., tend to co-exist, and at times, encouraged and perceived as inevitable elements for organizational success. For the purpose of this study, the predominant and widely recognized organizational paradox of change and stability, will be discussed at length. Change and flexibility, with regard to organizational environment, are perceived as two of the most inherent and crucial tools of achieving organizational growth and success. Companies, all over the world, constantly use these elements to drive their organizations towards growth and ensure long-term sustainability in the marketplace, particularly in situations whereby the external environment is characterized by strong competition or when the companies are caught in the midst of a crisis. This paper aims to disc uss the paradoxical nature of organizational culture, with regard to incorporating the widely popular albeit highly contradictory elements of change and stability. ... , managers today, encourage continuous innovation, improvement and change within organizations in order to address the challenges posed by the economic environment. The management is faced with the persistent challenge of adapting to the continuous innovations taking place in the external environment and devise and implement appropriate change management policies within their organizations, accordingly. It is on account of this very reason that various authors and researchers have concluded that change takes precedence over stability in contemporary corporate environment (Daft, 2010). It is a widely established fact that in order to survive in this highly dynamic corporate environment, the firms are required to include elements of innovation, flexibility as well as change from time to time. However, at the same time, they are also required to ensure stability and reliability (Farjoun 2010). The existence of this duality of change and stability, is one of the most widely popular and e ssential paradoxes in the field of organizational management (March & Simon, 1958; Thompson, 1967; Weick, 1979) which has received widespread attention and recognition in the field of management research, over the years (Farjoun, 2010; Gupta, Smith & Shalley, 2006; Leana & Barry, 2000; Lok, 2006; Nelson & Winter: 1982; Schultze & Stabell, 2004; Smith & Lewis, 2011). Literature review There is a high level of awareness within the field of management, regarding the existence of paradoxes ultimately leading to a rise in complexity and ambiguity (Farson, 1996; Handy, 1994; O’Connor, 1995). Most of these terms are widely popular and predominant in changing organizations wherein change is given crucial significance (Lewis, 2000). Van de Ven and Poole (1988), hence, making the concept of

Reflection Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 82

Reflection - Essay Example This did not go down well with some of the group members because they did not feel competent with the kind of knowledge other had gathered. On the other hand the new skill increased our engineering knowhow. The mistake that the group did was to assign the part of assignment instructions to an individual like we did with the other questions. With this the person mistakenly omitted some parts of the instruction and no other group member detected. For instance he did not see the part of the instructions that the engineers were to integrate the sustainable development with their suggestion for projects fighting poverty, climatic changes and so on. Though achieved all the learning objectives that were laid down, we got feedback from the lecturer that would help us improve our work in that group for the subsequent projects. It is more effective to work in a group than singly. It is important for all of us to go through the instructions together in future. To avoid the feeling of incompetence, we will find everyone will search for enough information. For the group to be effective we will make sure that we have carried out research and consult each other to have thorough research. The group should have a leader an elected leader, to direct on how the assignments would be carried. Rules must be there to guide on what to do with the errant members and the division of labor (LEVIN, 2005). LEVIN, P. (2005). Successful teamwork! for undergraduates and taught postgraduates working on group projects. Maidenhead, Open University Press.

Case36 Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Case36 - Assignment Example The concept became known as kickbucks. The program rewarded registered iPhone and Android users who entered a participating retail location. Kickbucks could be turned into gifts cards, discounts, download songs, movie tickets, Facebook credits, or charitable donations. The concept gained popularity and expanded into 1,100 retail stores across the U.S. (Ankeny, 2011). Cynac Roeding wanted to turn a rewards program into a fun experience for everyone. Kickbucks incorporates a patent pending device located at each store that emits a signal that can be picked up by cellular devices within range. Retailers control the value of kickbucks. The shopper demographic of kickbucks contains 55% females and 49% between the ages 25-39 which is a great shopper demographic. Kickbucks provided an incentive for customers to come into the store. Greater rewards obtain higher traffic results. The success of kickbucks was realized in part due to the desire of customers of integrating their mobile devices into their shopping experience. The article showed how innovation can be applied to the marketing function of an enterprise. Mr. Roeding was able to invent a system that utilized cellular phones as a hub to identify walk by traffic into stores. People would get rewarded for just visiting the store. The idea of kickbucks was revolutionary because most rewards programs typically entail the purchase of goods from a store. Kickbucks started as a program to drive traffic into cellular stores, but other companies liked the idea so much that soon the system was implemented by Roeding at all types of retail establishments. It is a common fact that a lot of people buy on impulse. Kickbucks indirectly generate sales for stores because it brought people into your establishment. The cellular industry is one of the fastest growing sectors as the cellular has become people’s

The United States Pharmacopeial Convention Essay - 5

The United States Pharmacopeial Convention - Essay Example In America, alone people spend almost $21.3 billion dollars each year on diet supplements. So the question still remains as to whether this money is a waste or whether these people truly benefit from these Vitamins and fortified foods. That is why we have some non-profit organizations that are establishing that to be able to regulate these products in America. One of these organizations includes; the United States Pharmacopeial conventions (USP) (Thompson and Manore 186). The United States Pharmacopeial Convention (USP) is a nonprofit making organization that is scientific. Its main function is to set standards of identity, strength, quality and medicines that are pure ingredients of food, distributing manufactured supplements of diet and consumed globally. The enforcing of USPs drug standards in the United States is by the administration of food and drugs. Developing these standards and, more than 130 countries rely on them. More than 800 volunteer experts mainly develop and revise the USP standards. Some of these volunteers include; the international participants who work with the USP under rules that are of strict conflict-of-interest. Establishing USP was first in 1820, since then it has helped to secure the American drugs supply that is of quality. To strengthen this legacy, today USP is working with scientists, practitioners and regulators that help protect the health of the public internationally, from various countries (Thompson and Manore 186). The United States Pharmacopeial Conventions whose mission is to see a world that has its citizens have high-quality access, safe and beneficial foods and medicines.  USP approaches this vision urgently and with a purpose.

Ups vs Fedex Essay Example for Free

Ups vs Fedex Essay In 1975, UPS promised package delivery to every address in the United States; FedEx was not able to guarantee delivery in every area. When deregulation of the domestic airline industry and trucking industry occurred, the operating landscape changed, and FedEx became the beneficiary by expanding its delivery fleet. The just-in-time supply movement enabled FedEx to grow as well by creating a larger demand for express delivery. Technological innovations, such as its package tracker, assisted FedEx in improved customer service; UPS was able to keep pace with technological innovations of its own, such as its own package tracker. UPS’s key to success was and remains efficiency, timing all delivery routes to traffic signal patterns for example. UPS also expanded into Canada and Germany before FedEx. In recent years UPS has invested heavily in information technology, aircraft and other facilities. Competitor Comparison UPS went public in 1999, starting direct stock competition with FedEx UPSFedEx Offered package delivery services to the entire US and over 200 countries, delivered over 13 million packages and achieved profits of $3 billion, and AAA bond rating in 1983Operational leader reached $1 billion in revenues during 1983 and was poised to own the market for express delivery Restructured by becoming an aggressive company and expanding through acquisitionsNo unions Acquired Miami based carrier with operations in Latin AmericaAchieved $15 billion in assets, net income of $830 million on revenues of $22. billion in 2003 Opened Mail Boxes Etc. franchise stores, providing packing, shipping and mail service Invested in IT, aircraft and facilities to support service innovations, quality and reduce cost Became involved with all aspects of supply chain logistics to offer another service to its customers By 2003, UPS and FedEx were in very similar business positions, providing express service in the US and abroad. Express Segment: 1999 2003 UPSFedEx Focus on customer serviceFocus on customer service Started price war, but later settled on regular price increasesSettled on regular price increases Cut costs through economies of scale, investments in IT and business process reengineeringCut costs through economies of scale, investments in IT and business process reengineering IT: UPS employs on DIADs for drivers to scan package barcodes during pickupIT: COSMOS transmits data from package movements, customer pickups, invoices and deliveries to central database in Memphis, TN UPS installed drop off boxes, 165 drive through and 371 express delivery stores, Saturday pickups to expand services and match FedExPurchased ground vehicles worth $200 million to match UPS delivery fleet Offered integrated logistics service to large corporate clients with total inventory controlCompeted for large corporate clients providing integrated logistics service In the international package-delivery market, UPS exceeded and had more success and dollar investment marked for international growth than FedEx . International Package-Delivery Market European entry in 1988 with acquisition of 10 continental courier services Lost estimated $1 billion in Europe since entry in 1984 and eventually sold European hub to DHL Spent an additional $1 billion in 1995 to expand it European operationsExpanded routes in Latin America, Caribbean and introduced AsiaOne next business day service between Asia and US in 1995 Begins direct flights to China in 2001Establishes Chinese Headquarters in 2003 Contracts with Yangtze River Express for package delivery within China in 2003 FedEx owned the largest foreign presence in China, with almost double the amount of daily flights to China than UPS, serving 220 Chinese cities with direct flights to Beijing, Shenzhen and Shanghai. FedEx volumes in China grew by more than 50% between 2003 and 2004. UPS was active in China beginning in 1988, and was the first carrier to offer nonstop service from America. By 2003, UPS had 6 weekly flights to China with direct service to Beijing and Shanghai, serving about 200 cities with expected growth of about 60% on its main route. UPS also predicted peak-season demand to exceed capacity. Financial Analysis UPS appears to be the better bet for the long-term because its historical financial results are superior to and more consistent when compared to FedEx. If we consider EVA (Economic Value Added) as the key gauge for evaluating both firms, UPS is clearly the better performer. In the twelve year period of 1992 through 1993, UPS created $4. 33 billion in cumulative economic value, while FedEx destroyed $2. 25 billion. Because of its superior profitability and cash generating capabilities, UPS has better prospects for funding growth through internal and external sources. Even if we weaken the assumption of past history as a good indicator for the course of future financial performance and management, the data still indicates UPS is in a better financial position for taking on future growth. Decomposing EVA UPS outperformed FedEx on profitability in the twelve year period with an average RONA of 13. 78% compared to 8. 31% for FedEx. This profitability disparity accounts for most of the differences in their EVA histories. The twelve year average cost of capital/WACC for each firm was virtually the same (11. 97% for UPS, 11. 5% for FedEx); FedEx failed to generate enough RONA to cover its cost of capital in eleven years of the twelve year period, while UPS generated positive economic returns in seven of those years. The economic profit margin or spread between RONA and WACC for UPS averaged about 1. 8 % compared to -3. 14% for FedEx. For the last year of the period, 2003, UPS’s spread was 5. 11% and FedEx’s was 1. 10%. Given these statistics, UPS is obviously the better value creator and more profitable firm. Funding Future Growth (Cash and Debt) UPS is in a better position to fund its future growth because it generates more cash through superior profitability and its bigger size NOPAT for UPS in 2003 was at $3. 31 billion versus FedEx at $1. 42 billion. Thus, UPS can fund a larger percentage of its growth through internally generated funds. UPS can also take on additional debt at a lower cost than FedEx. The two firms have very similar debt/equity ratios but different bond ratings, with UPS rated higher. Therefore, even with similar relative debt levels, UPS can choose to supplement its funding needs with debt at a lower interest expense than FedEx. As of 2003, UPS‘s interest coverage ratio is three times that of FedEx, so UPS has a bigger cushion for handling additional debt (which partially explains UPS’s higher debt rating). In summary, from a cash perspective and in the context of each firm’s debt load, UPS is clearly in a better financial position to compete than FedEx. Operational Analysis While UPS and FedEx operate with similar business practices and offer almost identical services to their respective customers, UPS is more diversified both in operational revenue and global market service. Virtually all of FedEx’s business is derived from air-express sector in the package delivery; that segment is only 44% of UPS’s revenues. Both companies compete fiercely, often copying the other’s moves. For instance, FedEx has started to poach clients from UPS by offering volume discounts and excellent delivery services. UPS has countered by matching FedEx’s customer interaction by installing drop boxes and offering Saturday delivery to equal FedEx’s delivery schedule. Annualized capital expenditures are almost identical between the two companies for the period of 1992 to 2003 was 34. 64% for FedEx and 36. 78% for UPS. The main difference between the two is the markets each company serves and how they serve it. FedEx utilizes an independent contractor model, while UPS has unionized employees. FedEx attempted to develop its European capabilities until 1992, when it sold its operations to DHL, and now relies on local partners. By comparison, UPS acquired multiple courier services and announced in 1995 it would spend $1 billion over the next five years to continue its European expansion. The following table provides the comparison of worldwide facts between FedEx and UPS: FedExUPS Main HubMemphis, TennesseeLouisville, Kentucky Packages handled per day5. 4 million13. 6 million Air deliveries per day3. 1 million2 million Service AreaMore than 220 countries and territories, including every address in the United StatesMore than 200 countries and territories; every address in North America and Europe WorkforceMore than 216,500 employees worldwide360,000 Worldwide Delivery FleetMore than 50,000 motorized vehicles and 625 aircraft88,000 ground vehicles; 583 aircraft. In the ground package-delivery business, UPS is approximately five times larger than FedEx, delivering 11 million packages per day. However, there are signs that FedEx is gaining market share for ground delivery. FedEx dominates with the world’s largest air-delivery service, delivering 50% more per day than UPS. The battleground has shifted from Europe to China, which is projected to become the second largest economy by 2011 and the largest by 2039. Because China’s export volume increased by 101% in 2004, both companies have focused on the import/export package market valued at nearly $1 billion, instead of the intra-domestic market, valued at approximately $800 million. Although it entered the Chinese market after FedEx, UPS is aggressively expanding its services within the market. While FedEx flies almost twice as many daily routes to China than UPS, the new service agreement between the US and China will alter the landscape; it is uncertain how the newly acquired routes will be distributed to FedEx, UPS and their other competitors. Conclusion UPS will achieve better long-term performance relative to FedEx because of its bigger size, more diversified revenue and business, superior financial and operational efficiency and a better capital position.

Characteristics of the Clothing Industry

Characteristics of the Clothing Industry The high quality fashion market is based on modern technology which has a relatively well paid labour force and designers with various degrees of flexibility. Many firms within this industry try to capture the market through various designs which is targeted at meeting the taste and preference of consumers. Most of the firms under the high quality fashion markets are in the developed and industrialized countries. The mass production low-quality/standard products markets are found in the developing countries. These categories are basically involved in the production of uniforms, under wears, t-shirts and many more. They are found in exporting zones working with major importers if the industrialized countries. Outsourcing in this market is basically to household productions, (Nordas, 2004). The Clothing industries operate under free import quotas. This means that both clothing and textile industries do not have to pay import tariffs when importing raw materials connected to clothing and textiles. These tariffs are made possible by the World Trade Organisation, to improve the importation of varied clothing among producing countries. As a result of the protectionism, many developing countries producing clothing were able to survive the industry. This however did not go well with the developed countries since there were great competition between the developing countries like China and the developed countries. On the part of employment, the industry has engaged the services of millions of people worldwide and also with other individuals who are not registered but work in their homes and factories. The industry was the first to trade on a global dimension, simply because of the low barriers in entering the production of clothing. The industry is governed by the international labour laws, employing the most sensitive part of the labour force with females and ethnic minority as the leading employees. Most of the employees are immigrants. The European community, and the US and UK also have blacks as the major employees of the industry. Most of the producing countries in the developing world have females as the majority of employees in the industry. As indicated above, the total labour force of the clothing industry is made up of 80% of women. This is largely due to the fact that women are immobile and therefore are able to take care of domestic chores. A greater number of the female workforce is also unskilled or semi-skilled. In the developing countries, many of the workers spend up to 12-14 hours per day and are paid with very low wages, THE PRODUCTION CIRCUIT The clothing industry is part of a large circuit which involves the production of textiles. The industry is more fragmented organisationally and less technological in nature. The industry outsource most of it components and products. The garment industry therefore produces to unpredicted consumer markets. The industry serves as a distribution point for all garments. Through retailer efforts, the organisationà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s geography has been shaped accordingly. The industry is also known as a buyer driven industry, in the sense that they purchase most of the raw materials from producing countries worldwide. There are six stages that individual producing countries have passed through, that is from the embryonic stage to the maturity and decline stage of the development process of the clothing industry. This can be seen in (Figure 1 below). The stages indicate how raw materials flow within the industry, from the fabric production stage, design, preparation, production, distribution and consumption stage. In the reverse state is the information flow from customer orders down to the fabric production stage. There is no much technological change since inception of the clothing industry. The majority still uses the manual operations due to the complex nature of the production process. The clothing industry can be related to a supply chain function, where activities flow from raw materials to textile designs, apparel plants through distribution centers and other retail stores to consumers. The chain is seen as an integrated network of marketing from production stage to the finish product to consumers. The various activities are located where each can be able to make a contribution to the value of the finished product. The various variables considered in the industry include quality, cost, reliability, access to quality inputs and transportation cost. From the figure 2 above, the black lines represents the flow of goods whereas the white lines represent the flow of information. The arrows indicate Demand-Pull System, where the design of a product is made from customer orders, (Nordas, 2004). The supply chain indicates the interplay of several companies, where logistics and other services are coordinated. In the industrialized countries, most companies engage the ser vices of consultants or independent service providers in the provision of logistics. PRODUCTION COST AND TECHNOLOGY The clothing industry is characterized by low intensity of capital and high intensity of labour. The plant size is very small with simple technology. Figure 4 represent percentage of leading exporters of Clothing worldwide. The figure compares percentage of 2000 and 2011. Asia dominates the clothing industry in-terms of exports with over 50% of world market. China has doubled their share within 11years of operation, with approx. 37% of the total exports worldwide. Closely followed is the European Union and Euro extra with a combined total of 35% of world export share, which I a combination of intra regional exports. Figure 5 represents share in value for exporters for 2011. China leads with 38% representing 154 billion Dollars in 2011, (www.wto.org) European union closely follows with 36% of Share in value representing 144billion US Dollars including intra regional trade. Bangladesh also did better in 2011 with a share in value of 5%, representing an amount of 20billion US Dollars, www.wto.org). LEADING IMPORTERS ( SHARE IN VALUE AND PERCENTAGE) The EU is the leading importer of clothing worldwide, with combined percentage of 67.2% of total imports. The EU imports much of its clothing from China. Available records indicates that EU imports about 39% if Clothing from China, 14% from Turkey, 7.7% from India, 6.3% from Bangladesh and 3.6% from Tunisia, ( www.ec.europa.eu). It is also evidenced that China exports clothing more than imports. Whereas China leads in exporting clothing, in-terms of imports, they only imports about 0.90% of world clothing. The US is the second largest importer of clothing as evidenced on figure 4 above. The US imports about 20.5% of clothing in the country, followed by Japan with 7.6%. The remaining countries imports less than 3% worldwide respectively, (WTO 2011 chart II.69) The share in value for the leading importer of clothing (EU) is 60%, representing an amount of 290Billion Dollars. The EU is therefore the largest importer of clothing worldwide. The US is the second largest importer of clothing with about 18% share in value, representing 89 Billion US Dollars TOP TEN SUPPLIERS The clothing industry has about ten major suppliers. China plays a leading role with about 29.45million Euros in 2011 as compared to 2007 where it made a supply of approximately 21.9million Euros. Bangladesh also improved in their supply in 2011 with 7.5million Euros as compared with 2007 with a supply of 4.4million Euros. India also had a slight increase in supply for 2011 with approximately 4.5million Euros as compared to 2007 where the supply was approx. 3.8million Euros. However, Turkey had a decline in supply in 2011 with an amount of 8.2million Euros as compared with 2007 with approx. 8.9million Euros. Other countries like Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and Vietnam had their supply below 2million Euros as evidenced on figure 2. Top 10 suppliers in clothing (million Euros) Basic characteristics of the industry (share in value added and employment, structure and  characteristics of the production process) The role of trade policy (multilateral tariffs and quotas, à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã…“grey area protectionism, trade conflicts, preferential trade, etc.) Trade policies are rules and regulations governing the operations of international trade among countries worldwide. Trade policies play a major role in the industrialization of the clothing and textiles market. Regarding market access, trade policies TEXTILES AND CLOTHING AGREEMENT The textiles and clothing industry has long history in-terms of agreement for protection in trade across the US and Europe. Voluntary export restraints were agreed upon by China, Japan, Hong Kong, and India to enable them export cotton products to the US in the 1950s. The General Agreement on Trade and Tariffs were incorporated in the agreement with the Long Term Agreement (LTA) on Cotton. This agreement was later replaced by the Multi-Fibre Agreement in 1974, (Nordas, 2004). The main purpose of the MFA was to open up the restricted markets so to limit the disruptions of markets. The MFA was also extended to cover all man-made fibres in-terms of restrictions. However, according to Nordas 2004, the MFA violated the multilateral system principles as follows: The most favoured principle was not adhered to Instead applying tariffs, it rather applied quantitative restrictions Developing countries were discriminated against It was not also very transparent for easy understanding By 1st January, 2005, the Textiles and Clothing were fully integrated in GATT which also gave way for quotas to be fully integrated making it easy for member countries to trade without trade barriers. In the views of Nordas, the eliminating quotas lead to welfare economic gains of about 42% of the Uruguay round liberation, and about 65% for dynamic models. In her view, Nordas indicated that much of the Welfare gains went to the importing countries where as the exporting countries made welfare loss through the static version of the model and welfare gain through the dynamic model. A tripartite committee report on promoting fair globalization in textiles and clothing indicates that phasing out quotas will benefit China, being the leader in exporting of clothing in the industry, where as the importing countries will lose market share, (www.ilo.org) . The Agreement on Textiles and Clothing (ATC) ended in 2004, which led to an increase in competition in the clothing market. Some countries were affected as a result of the new entrants of the Asian countries like Vietnam and Cambodia, and other competitors like India and Bangladesh which are traditional exporters. This led to a decline in the importation of clothing from the affected countries by the US at an annual rate of 13.4%. With the implementation of Preferential Trade Agreements (PTAs) which were imposed by the US and EU on the importation of textiles and clothing from China, inroads were created for some developing countries to experience marginal growth in their exports. The PTAs also made it possible for small countries like Madagascar and Haiti to increase their exports by 26% and 15% respectively, (www.ito.org). THE FREE TRADE AGREEMENT The US Free Trade Agreements has given the textiles and apparel industry the opportunity to enter in the world market and compete freely. The agreement enables the reduction of tariffs rates and improves the intellectual property rules and regulations, (Web.ita.doc.gov). The US has therefore signed agreements with the following countries and Institutions on textile and clothing industry. Notable among them are; Australia, Bahrain, CAFTA-DR, Chile, Colombia, Israel, Korea, Morocco, NAFTA, Oman, Panama, Peru and Singapore, (www.otexa.ita.doc). These agreements assist foreign governments to ensure that non-discriminating laws and regulations are enforced to streamline trade relations between the US and member countries, (www.otexa.ita.doc). The FTA provides that transparent measures be put in place for effective rules to be enforced. The FTA also ensures that all non-tariff barriers are removed completely, which opens the markets of the member countries to the US products. Under this ag reement, all goods that qualify are said to be duty free the US markets.

No Online Privacy in America :: Essays Papers

No Online Privacy in America Along with its many benefits, the march of technology makes an encompassing surveillance network seem almost inevitable. We owe much of the privacy we have enjoyed in the past to a combination of immature technology and insufficient manpower to monitor us. But these protective inefficiencies are giving way to efficient technologies of data processing and digital surveillance that threaten to eliminate our privacy. Already we are tracked by our credit-card transactions, our passes through the fast-lanes at toll booths, our cell phone calls. Each year brings more sensitive and widespread sensing devices, including cameras, microphones, and, potentially, biological sensors, all of which are being connected through increasingly efficient networks to increasingly more powerful data processing and storage. Cameras are proliferating, in toll plazas, on public streets, and in public parks. We welcome them as crime-fighters, even as they eliminate our ability to move through the world untracked. Face and voice recognition software may soon permit image data from surveillance cameras to be cross-referenced to data based profiles of each person observed. To get a hint of the future, enter your street address at globexplorer.com. You will see a satellite picture nearly good enough to show a car parked in your driveway, or in mine. Better resolution is coming soon. We are moving toward a transparent society in which our actions and transactions are followed, our lives tracked and documented, by folks we neither know nor trust; each of us a star in our own Truman Show. (online Privacy) By now, you have probably heard a lot of debate over the USA Patriot Act, the federal legislation passed to give investigators more tools for apprehending terrorists. Proponents of the law say we need it to protect ourselves. Opponents say it threatens our constitutional rights. Nevertheless, whatever position you take on these issues, it is important to know how the new law will affect your life online. The Patriot Act is complex and powerful. It broadens the definition of terrorism and increases the penalties for terrorism. Some of the more sweeping changes involve electronic surveillance. The act permits federal investigators to use more-powerful tools to monitor phone calls, e-mail messages, and even Web surfing. We all hope that means agents will be better able to arrest terrorists and foil their plans. But the changes also mean we now have even less guarantee of privacy on the Net.

Babe Ruth :: essays research papers

Babe Ruth During the roaring twenties, there were many outstanding baseball players. One of the best outstanding baseball players of all times was Babe Ruth.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Babe Ruth was born on February 6, 1895, on the outskirts of Baltimore, Maryland. He was the son of a saloonkeeper, George Herman Ruth, Sr. At age seven he was placed in the St. Mary’s Industrial School for boys because his parents couldn’t control him anymore. After twelve years of basically being locked up he was released in 1914 so that he could play professional baseball.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  One key person in Ruth’s life was Brother Matthias. Matthias encouraged George to play baseball. By age 12, he was already on the varsity team. Matthias pushed Ruth to be a right-handed catcher since there was no left-handed catcher’s mitt.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  George Herman’s professional career started in 1914 when the Boston Red Sox picked him up as a left-handed pitcher. After 158 games, Ruth had a pitching record of 89-46 and had 3 World Series wins and no losses. When Ruth’s pitching career ended, he had a 2.28 earned run average and was just getting started with his all time hitting career. Babe Ruth set many hitting records in his 22 years of baseball. â€Å"The Babe† was given many new nicknames over the years. Some for example were: â€Å"The Sultan of Swat,† â€Å"The Callasses of Clout,† â€Å"The Great Bambino,† and â€Å"The Babe.† In 22seasons, he led the league 12 times with home run records. In 1921, Ruth had a record setting 60 homers, which no one broke until Hank Aaron in 1974. In 1935, George Herman Ruth hung up his uniform for the last time with leaving professional baseball. With 714 career homeruns and some great memories, The Babe led his team to The World Series in 1923, 1927, 1928, and 1932.

Sons and Lovers :: Free Essay Writer

Sons and Lovers The Parallels Between Two Families â€Å"It is morning again, and she is still here...† These are the words D.H. Lawrence wrote to a friend describing his terminally ill mother in 1913. â€Å"I look at my mother and think ‘O Heaven-is this what life brings us to?’ You see mother has had a devilish married life, for nearly forty years- and this is the conclusion- no relief.† (Baron’s Educational Series, 1993). At the time this letter was written Lawrence was fictionalizing his relationship with his mother, as well as the rest of his family, in the novel Sons and Lovers . In the novel the Lawrences would be named the Morels, but though the names are different there are many parallels between Sons and Lovers and Lawrence’s own life. These parallels are what make the novel truly autobiographical. However, the strongest evidence of the autobiographical nature of this novel exists in the comparisons between Lawrence and his parents with their fictional counterparts in the book. David Herbert Lawrence was born in 1885, in Eastwood, England. Eastwood is an industrial town, the main industry being coal mining. In the novel, Eastwood becomes the town of Bestwood. As in the novel, Lawrence’s family was poor and working class. Lawrence was a sickly child (Croom, 1996). He had bronchitis a mere two weeks after he was born, and lung problems would plague him all his life, eventually developing into repeated bouts of pneumonia which permanently weakened his lungs (Meyers, p. 248). Eventually, it was tuberculosis, which attacked his weakened lungs, that killed him (Moynahan, p. xiii). At that time, one of the few ways for a poor person to better himself was through education. Lawrence’s mother Lydia recognized this, and encouraged it in young Lawrence. Lawrence started school at the early age of four, but it proved too much for the child. He was withdrawn from school and did not return until he was seven years old. The fact that he was older than the other children when he reentered school set him apart socially. He had few friends, and instead sought out the company of his younger sister, Ada. Despite Lawrence’s late start, he did well in school, and became the first pupil in his school to win a scholarship to Nottingham High School (Croom, p.

Inductive and Deductive Agruments

Kurt Lieberknecht The similarities and difference between inductive and deductive arguments. The best way to describe the similarities and difference between inductive and deductive arguments, it would be best if the term â€Å"argument† had a definition. Everyday people have arguments. For these everyday conversations â€Å"argument† means â€Å"dispute†. In this Logic class an argument consists of claims or statements followed by a final claim. The statements that articulates the reason for agreement of the final claim called â€Å"the premises† (Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy, 2007, Argument).This class uses this definition of â€Å"argument† to determine how to build a position on certain subjects, and reasoning to convince others to accept the final claim or conclusion (Hurley, P. A Concise Introduction to Logic  11/e, 2012, 2). If  more logical arguments were presented, there might be  fewer non-logical arguments or nonarguments. Th is gets to the main subject of comparing and contrasting inductive and deductive arguments. Statements can be considered arguments or nonarguments. Arguments can be either inductive or deductive. An argument leads to a conclusion led by a premise or premises.The premises can be true or false, in which case will change a deductive argument from sound to unsound and vice versa. The same is true for inductive arguments but the wording is cogent or uncogent. These arguments also have a terminology that describes them even further. A deductive argument can be valid or invalid, and an inductive argument can be strong or weak. Some of the biggest difference between the two includes; that an inductive argument includes new information into the argument to make the final conclusion, deductive arguments use repeating information to get to a conclusion, and wording (Smith, Mathew 2012, Logical Argument).The subject of what constitutes as an argument, it needs to consist of one or more premises and a conclusion (Hurley, P. A Concise Introduction to Logic   11/e, 2012, 14). When the premises present high-quality reasons to accept the conclusion it is stated that it is an argument. If the premises fail to support the conclusion it is still considered an argument as it has a premise and a conclusion. Being an argument does not always make the conclusion  true; that only predetermines that the conclusion follows from the premises.If  the premises are reasonable, and the final claim relates to the premises, the conclusion is very likely to be true (Hurley, 16). In other words, it is necessary for a statement to have a premise and a conclusion to be recognized as an argument in this Logic class. The argument needs to be checked if the premises are true or reasonable to  believe, and if the statements are clear. If all this is the case, it is a logical argument. If there logical argument that is deductive it is called sound. If there is a logical argument that is inducti ve it is called cogent.In a  deductive  argument, a person states that the conclusion must be correct  if, and only if, the premises are true. If the premises support the final claim, it is a  valid  argument: 1. Dogs have whiskers. 2. Animals with whiskers are mammals. C. Dogs are mammals. This is a deductive argument that is valid and has true premises it is called a  sound  argument. If the premises are false but the conclusion is true it is considered an unsound argument. This is a valid argument, but it is unsound. Here is an example. 1. All birds can fly. 2. A penguin is a bird. C. A penguin can fly.This is a valid argument because the premises support the conclusion, but a penguin clearly cannot fly. The premise â€Å"all birds can fly† is false making it an unsound argument. If a deductive argument has bad or incorrect logic, the premises do not support the conclusion even if the premises are true, the argument is  invalid. 1. All humans are mammals. 2 . Mike’s dog is a mammal. C. Mike’s dog is a human. 1. When Tim takes a shower, Tim gets wet. 2. Tim is wet. C. Tim must have taken a shower. Both conclusions are false: Mike’s dog, clearly, is not a human, and Tim could have just fallen in a ditch, or even was sprayed by a water gun.These examples show that truth of the premises is irrelevant for the validity of an argument and that validity relies solely on the logical form and if the premises support the conclusion. When a deductive argument has false premises and a true conclusion or if it has true premises but bad logic, the argument is flawed and we should reject its conclusion. It is unsound. If a deductive argument is clear, valid  and has all true premises, it is a valid sound  argument and there is a reason to accept its conclusion. In an  inductive  argument, a person claims that the conclusion is true and it is highly likely if the premises are true.If an inductive argument is logical, we cal l it a  strong  argument. If an inductive argument has bad or incorrect logic, the argument is  weak. Here are a few examples: 1. Most students at a community college live within a 20 mile radius of the campus. 2. OJC is a community college. 3. Kurt is a student at OJC. C. He must live within a 20 mile radius of OJC. This conclusion is very probable because the premises are germane to the conclusion. Only because, all of the premises are true it is a cogent argument. We may say that this argument is true. . Taylor and Ana are both students at OJC. 2. Ana is tall and so is Taylor. 3. Ana and Taylor are both 20 years old. 4. Ana majors in math, and so does Taylor. 5. Ana is on the volleyball team. C. Taylor must be on the team, too. This conclusion comes from outer space, nowhere. There are no premises that pertain to our conclusion, except maybe that Ana and Taylor are both tall. This makes it an uncogent argument. The argument says nothing about athletic abilities, which Ana p robably has because she is on the volleyball team.This does not mean that Taylor is athletic and can play volleyball. In order for an inductive argument to be strong and cogent, it should have reasonable and true premises that are relevant to the conclusion. If one or more premises are false it is a weak and uncogent argument. Reasonable people should believe the conclusions of sound and strong arguments because a sound or strong argument is that it is clear or defined as free from ambiguity or vagueness, has good logic  and  true premises (â€Å"The Traditional Square of Opposition,†Ã‚  Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy).If an argument has good logic, its conclusion must be true if all the premises are true, it is obvious that the conclusion of a sound or strong argument is true. It is obvious that any human with reason should accept the conclusion of a sound or strong argument. A few more differences between inductive and deductive arguments are the wording and the ab ility to use special abilities to distinguish between a good or bad logic arguments. A deductive argument states that it is impossible for the conclusion to be false given that the premises are true. These require necessary reason.An inductive argument states that it is improbable for the conclusion to be false given that the premises are true. They include probabilistic reasoning. There are key words in argument that play a key role in determining if the argument is Inductive or Deductive. A deductive argument could include different words such as necessarily, certainly, absolutely, or definitely (Hurley, P. A Concise Introduction to Logic   11/e, 2012, 33). Inductive arguments probably include words such as probably, improbable, plausible, implausible, likely, or unlikely (Hurley, 33).Deductive arguments have many different forms. These forms are usually considered a deductive argument but each can be considered on a case-by-case bases. Arguments that usually include mathematics , definitions, or syllogism are considered deductive. There are also different forms of syllogism. Categorical, hypothetical and disjunctive are three that were taught. Inductive arguments also contain different forms and those include: predictions, analogies, generalizations, authorities, signs, and casual inference. Some arguments become hard to determine which is deductive and which is inductive (Hurley, P.A Concise Introduction to Logic  11/e, 2012, 34). There is a list of steps to follow just like the order of operations in math. First, does the premise provide absolute support for the conclusion? If so this is a deductive argument. Next, if an argument has a specific deductive character or form. It is obviously deductive. The third indicator is having an inductive character or form. This would be considered an inductive argument. The fourth factor is that it could contain inductive language such as the list of words above. The next indicator is if it contains deductive langu age.The last factor is if the premise provides only probable support for the conclusion. It can truly be difficult to determine between inductive and deductive arguments if they are incomplete and not in a correct form (Hurley, 36). There are definitely differences between inductive and deductive arguments. The best way to determine if it is inductive or deductive is to follow the six rules. It is much easier to determine if the argument is in a correct form and logical. The wording of each is very important and their definitions of being cogent, strong, valid, or sound is a very good way of determining the type of argument.BIBLOGRAPHY Parsons, Terence 2012, the Traditional Square of Opposition. Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy (http://plato. stanford. edu/entries/square/) Retrieved Feb. 2, 2013. Smith, Mathew 2012, Logical Argument, (http://www. actdu. org. au/archives/actein_site/logarg__. html) Retrieved Feb. 2 2013. Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy, 2007, Argument. (http:/ /www. actdu. org. au/archives/actein_site/logarg__. html) Retrieved Jan. 30, 2013. Hurley, P. 2012,  A Concise Introduction to Logic 11/e. Retrieved Jan. 31, 2013.

Advantages of Internet Essay

Science and technology play a very important role in our life. Most of our daily activities are greatly associated with science and technology. One of the contributions of science and technology to mankind is the invention of Internet. With this invention being so widely used, it has both advantages and disadvantages. In this essay, I shall discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the Internet. The first advantage of the internet is that it provides us with leisure. This is because the Internet can provide us with various endless entertainment. For example, we can watch videos in YouTube which has millions of videos from comedy to romance and horror to suit our mood. Not only that, some television networks have their own websites. These enables us to catch up on movies or television programmes on television which we have missed. Radio channels such as Class95 and Perfect10 also have their own sites to listen to radio programmes for those who do not own a radio set. There are also many sites that enable the users especially youths to watch anime or read manga online. This is good as this enables us to save money as the cost of a manga or anime DVD can be quite expensive. These different from of online entertainment will not only gives us leisure but also provide a medium in which we can relieve the daily stress from school and work. The second advantage of the internet is E-commerce which is growing rapidly and becoming more popular. Examples of e-commerce include online shopping and e-banking. Through online shopping, we can buy many things over the net which provides a range of products from all over the world with just a click of the mouse. Examples of famous online shopping sites are Yahoo!, Amazon and e-bay which sells various products from books and furniture to electronic devices and office supplies. Doing shopping online is indeed convenient as we do not need to travel to do our shopping. As a result, time is saved.

Influence of Visual Media Paper

?The Various forms of visual entertainment media shape American culture and its values is by Visual entertainment media has shaped American culture and values in many ways. There are so many forms of entertainment nowadays that it has cause many of us including our children to forget what is more important. For example we now use the Internet to rely on so many things, like information. When at one point in time we would use books or newspapers. Video games, Internet, cell phones and things like this have taken away from our values of taking time out to enjoy a book.The children of today won’t even take time out to play outside they are more concerned with playing their video games. There was a time where children played outside every day and that was a form of exercise but now all they want to do is watch television, play games and be on the Internet and their cell phones. Visual media influences the diffusion or spread of various cultural traits, including food habits, dress ing, and entertainment. Different forms of visual media, such as television and films, provide materials from which we establish a sense of selfhood, sexuality, class, and even race.Further to this, visual media shapes the way we view the world by influencing what we consider to be right or wrong, positive or negative, and moral or immoral. The social influences of the visual entertainment media have been more negative than positive. For example YouTube has millions of video up where most of them depict something of negativity or something of no substance. There are so many videos of people fighting than there are of someone speaking out to promote non-violence. There are also sexually explicit videos where you see a person has millions of hits.Also movies have become so much more violent these days that young people are easily influenced by them, kids look up to famous actors/actresses. I think it is up to us as parents to make sure we monitor what our children do. Over the years, various forms of visual entertainment media have had some influence on the American culture. Visual entertainment media, for instance, exposes us to different kinds of music and dancing styles. When we are repeatedly exposed to these forms of entertainment, we gradually accept it as a way of life and eventually start practicing the same.Celebrity figures in visual entertainment media also influences our lifestyles. Visual media describes such persons as exceptionally talented and successful in various ways. As a result, we tend to view them as perfect role models and strive to adopt their lifestyles. For instance, the increased use of aerated drinks among Americans can be attributed to the commercial ads aired on TV with popular celebrities as the subject. As well, the rapid spread of various types of youth subculture, such as Goth subculture, can be attributed to visual media.Visual media also exposes us to nudism, cruelty, criminality, violence, unfairness, and other antisocial el ements. These elements of visual media entertainment constantly have shaped various aspects of the American culture. The influence of visual media in today's world has shaped American culture in many ways. People can be influenced with visual media because they can find it relatable. They relate to the person on a television show going through a rough time or a good time in their lives.People influenced by people on television that they look up to. For example if you are watching basketball and you see Michal Jordan wearing the newest shoes that have come out that will make you want to wear them thinking you can be like him. While with television shows, you may not look up to or influenced by the actor you are influenced by the character he plays on television. The way America visual media has shaped is because it is relatable and we are influenced by what we see. This may also change the way we think about cretin things.Such as if you decide that your son or daughter will not date until they are 18 but, you then see on television a 15 year old going on a date you then may change your mind about your son or daughter going on a date. If you hear swear words on television, you may find them inappropriate at first but you then start to use them yourself. It is as if people have grown numb to them existing. However there are good things about visual media other than changing your mind about things. It could inspire to be a better person or get a better job.This may push you harder to reach your goals that you have set for yourself. Some say that watching television is a way to learn. For example show like Dora the Explorer, Blue's Clues, and Bill Nye the Science Guy are said to teach you new things. In conclusion visual media influence social behavior and attitudes when we began to do what we see online, television, or movies. We have to get back to the basics like reading more books, watching the news, and not focus so much on the Internet, video games, movies, a nd cell phones.

Book of the Courtier Essay

â€Å"Whatever character an individual has determines how successful the community he belongs to will be†Ã¢â‚¬ ¦ these lines are indeed true with what the â€Å"Book of the Courtier† suggests. Authored by an Italian soldier, and a statesman attached to the court of the duke of Milan and later in the service of Duke Urbino, Baldassare Castiglione, the entire book dwells in a central theme which includes having graceful behavior, especially that of the impression of effortlessness or referred to by the book as â€Å"sprezzatura. † This series of four books deals so much on how an individual should train himself in discipline so as to be able to reach the best person he could in a way that he could contribute so much to his own community. In the case of this book, Castiliogne puts it in the personification of a perfect courtier. On the third book though, the story evolves on how a court lady should carry herself and thus be able to serve her master in a way that they will never have any point of despising her service. Being clever is quite a clear attitude pointed in this part of the book. In addition to this, the wide differences between male and female genders is shown with emphasis. One part of these series of stories talks about the individuality of each men as I may quote: â€Å"I don’t want to be like the man who stripped down to his shirt and then jumped a shorter distance than he had in his greatcoat. So as far as I am concerned it is very fortunate that the hour is late, because as there is little time I shall have to say far less, and not having given the matter any thought, I will be excusable and allowed to say without being censured all the things that come to my mind. And now in order not to have to carry the burden any longer, let me start by saying that to recognize true perfection in anything is so difficult as to be scarcely possible; and this because of the opinions vary. Thus there are many who like to hear someone talking a great deal and who will call him an agreeable companion. Some will prefer reticence; others an active and restless man; others one who always acts with calmness and deliberation; and so everyone praises or condemns according to his own opinion, always Importance Placed on Individual or Society Page #2 camouflaging a vice under the name of a corresponding virtue; or a virtue under the name of a corresponding vice. † This lines shows how individual opinions affect how one person chooses to conduct himself in front of the other people in his community. Sometimes held in hindrance to what he really likes to do, a person chooses to succumb to what his society considers to be right and acceptable. Yet some choose to stick to what they believe in and dares to be different in some ways thus facing the judgment of his community men regarding his rather different being. Indeed, however a man chooses to deal with his own life defending his own beliefs as such, it will strongly influence his society’s views on things. A real â€Å"perfect courtier† is referred to as someone who can direct his own way. Someone who would not allow his principles be cracked by people who aims to put his â€Å"service to his master† into a lower state of excellence. A real noble man is the one who can decide for himself. From the smallest detail of how he should dress to the most complicated issue of how he should deal with his life. He that continuously struggles for his goals toward aspiring people. Someone who is able to measure his accomplishments with those of other people is the one considered to be truly successful. Everything must occur in such a reasonable way and with purpose. It is very important for each and every one of us to continue on pursuing our own goals to attain self excellence. As Sydney Bremer says in his book Successful Achievements: â€Å"In the assurance of strength, there is strength, and they are the weakest, however strong, who have no faith in themselves or their powers. Men often conquer difficulties because they think they can. Their confidence in themselves inspires confidence in others†. This is indeed true specially in connection with the theme of the book of Castiglione. It is thus true that what a person does as a separate part of his community is directly linked to other people living with him. Man, as the very basic part of a certain society determines both the norms and the idealism a community considers to be true and acceptable. On the other hand, aiming for the best, as suggested by the ideas of Castiglione is concerned with how we embed ourselves with the positive traits that lead to self excellence and also eliminating negative characters which may Importance Placed on Individual or Society Page #3 hinder us from doing what we are supposed to reach as our aims in life. One of which is â€Å"sprezzatura† which was translated in the modern English as â€Å"recklessness†. It came from an Italian root-word â€Å"sprezza† meaning contempt, disdain, or scorn. Having such attitudes wouldn’t make any young courtier a successful one at that. On the contrary, it will just lead him to failure and distress. His goals of giving his best service will surely be a waste if he continues to cultivate this character in his everyday dealings. This is so much true even to an individual who strives to be the best in what he does. As a whole, as we could closely see, the â€Å"Book of the Courtier† shows so much emphasis on the kind of living of an individual person. From the positive traits he must posses to the negative attitudes he must omit from his system so as to be able to meet the goal of self excellence. Women also were given emphasis to have certain independence from the authority of men in some ways. Giving them the free will, freedom of speech and freedom in deciding for what they want with their lives. Yes, as this book has been set at a long time past in England, this doesn’t necessarily mean that it doesn’t have any practical advise to the modern times we are presently living in today. Apparently, the contents of this book has a lot of advise enclosed for these generation which we are living in. As to what we could actually observe, many young people today lack the enthusiasm of actually establishing their own purpose in life. Sadly, only a few of the youth today endeavor to influence the community they are living in with positive contributions to the moral, spiritual, and even secular aspects of life in the society. Only a fewer percent of today’s population really strive for the aim of having self-excellence. Yes, sometimes, its not bad to be a bit perfectionist with ourselves. Knowing our limits of course, perfectionism usually lead us to self-excellence. As one saying implies : â€Å"Make perfection your aim and be satisfied with nothing less†. Yes, we must always remember to ask ourselves of what we ought to do as an individual, what we could improve on ourselves and thus be able to make a difference on the community we are living in. Not to be praised or to be renowned as a noble man, but to reach the reality of self-excellence. Sources: Castigliogne, Baldesar. The Book of The Courtier. Penguin Classics. 1967.

Financial analysis of Morrisons and comparison with Tesco Coursework

Financial analysis of Morrisons and comparison with Tesco - Coursework Example Ratio analysis of an organization presents facts on a comparative basis and enables the drawing of inference regarding the performance of a firm (Khan & Jain, 2006). This analysis gives a useful indication of the performance of the organization. Financial ratios are often used by shareholders, bankers, trade creditors, analysts, management and the general public at large to measure the performance of the company in various aspects such as liquidity, profitability, debt and market position (Stoltz et al., 2007). However, these ratios often should be analyzed keeping in mind the accounting policies and the principles used by companies and is dependent on the industries under consideration (Siegel and Shim, 2006). The objective of this report is to analyze the performance of Morrison’s. In order to do this, ratios will be calculated for the company over a period of two years: 2009 and 2010. The ratios will be compared to Tesco which is a leading competitor in the same industry. F our categories of ratio will be calculated for both the companies: 1. Profitability 2. Liquidity 3. Efficiency 4. Gearing ratios Analysis Profitability Ratios Profitability ratios can be used to measure how good the company is using its assets and how well the company is controlling its costs to generate an acceptable rate of return (Gitman and McDaniel, 2008). The various profitability ratios are given below Gross Margin Gross margin can be defined as the ratio of gross profit to total sales. The graph below shows the trend of the same: As can be seen from the graph, the gross margin of Tesco is more than that of Morrison’s in the year of 2009. However, while the gross margin has increased for Morrison’s from 2009 to 2010 while the same has decreased for Tesco. One point to note here is the sales done by both the companies. While Tesco had sales of the order of ? 56,910m in 2010, Morrison’s had just ? 15,410m. This difference is an indication of the size of the two companies. It is evident that in terms of sales, Tesco is well ahead of Morrison’s. Profit Margin Profit margin of a company can be defined as: The graph below shows the trend for profit margin for both the companies: Here again, the margin is more for Tesco as compared to that of Morrison’s in 2009. While the profit margin has increased considerably from 2009 to 2010, the same has remained almost equal for Tesco. The higher profit margin of Tesco indicates that the company is having a better control over its costs as compared to Morrison’s (Investopedia). Just like the gross sales, the value of net profit of Tesco (? 2,336m) is almost four times that of Morrison’s (? 598m). Return on assets and investments While return on assets measure the amount of net income generated for each unit of assets, return on investment measures the amount of income generated from each unit of owners’ equity. Return on assets is an ideal tool for comparing compan ies within the same industry. RoA is an indication of both the profit margin as well as asset turnover (Needles et al., 2010). The graph on the side here shows the Return on Assets for both the organization. The RoA is almost equal for both the companies. This indicates that both the organizations have almost equal efficiency in utilizing their assets. The graph on the side here shows the Return on Investment for both the organizations. RoI is more for Tesco in 2009 which indicates better return on investor wealth. One issue being faced by Tesco is a reduction in the RoI from 2009 to 2010. This imply that the average profit generated from the amount of income generated from owner’

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Business Plan Thesis Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 9000 words

Business Plan - Thesis Example This has lead to the growth of online business across the globe and was the major reason for choosing the online form of business as it relates to Ortiz. The products produced by Ortiz are also in demand as footwear market has showed a steady growth rate over the past years. Additionally, continual changes in consumer’s preference, footwear demands continue to evolve and increase at a rate comparable to that of the apparel market. Factories producing the product line of Ortiz are currently located in the country of Colombia. As such, Ortiz plans to export its product from Colombia to European markets and sell these products through online marketplace to the end consumer. The products of Ortiz are manufactured to specifically keep the needs and preference of its target market in mind. As such, this target demographic includes younger and middle aged fashion conscious men and women who place a premium on footwear that is both stylish, fashionable, and comfortable. Objectives: To become a market leader in the online market for fashionable shoes To develop a superior reputation by allowing the customer to experience a streamlined and painless online shopping experience. To gain a reputation of reliable delivery in UK market and also for high quality shoes and design To determine the success of the business plan feasibility study was conducted in the online business sector and footwear market. It has been revealed that there exists a huge potential in the online business sector and also in the footwear market as the demand has increased drastically as compared to previous years. The feasibility research took into consideration five key areas, product/service, industry, market, organizational, and financial sectors. Next the business plan analyzes the business model. Ortiz implemented the affiliate business model and aims to earn revenue by its â€Å"pay per click† facility. The core strategy has been defined and explained in Chapter 4 under the heading business model. Chapter 5 analyzes the present and future scenarios of Ortiz and how the business prepared to perform in the future as well as where it expects to stand within the next few years of its operation. It can be said that the business is expected to generate positive cash flow as well as increase its overall brand awareness and image. In the process of conducting business there exists wide possibility of risk to be encountered by the online business and hence the likely risks which Ortiz might encounter have been stated in the business plan along with the remedies and how to manage the risk. The business plan also included the critical success factor which the company should implement to its business and earns profit and achieves success. Budget and investment planned by Ortiz will be shown in detail where the budgets have been prepared for three years starting from 2012 to 2014. As such, by the projections of this analysis, Ortiz is expected to break even by next year - 2013. Thus it can be concluded that the business aims to provide its target customers with innovate and stylish footwear and create a brand value in the UK and Europe market. Contents Executive summary 2 Contents 4 Chapter 1 7 Introduction 7 Structure 9 Business Model and Source of Information 10 Assumptions 10 Timescale 10 Chapter 2 12 The business concept 12 Product/Service 13 Target market 14 Value Added 14 Specific Features 16 Opportunity 16 Marketing and

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#6 - Case Study Example With regard to its definition, a visionary leader is a leader who is able to articulate their dream for an organization and inspire followers, allowing them to move together towards a shared dream of the future. The basis of my definition is that the ultimate role of visionary leadership is facilitative and an ideal principal is often to merely facilitate the vision rather than single handedly transforming an organization (school) within a given period of time (Mendels, 2012, P.55, Column 2, L. 2). As seen in the case study, Susan is seen alluding to a community culture means she is indirectly calling to attention the important of the beliefs, values as well as the collective thoughts of those who belonged to the broader community of the school. This is likely to be based on her strong personal belief that developing a school vision is a collective responsibility that should be carried out by all members and stakeholders of the broader school community. Generally, the potential conflict between professionalism and democracy often take a number of forms. Democracies often require taking into account the opinions of other members of an organization before making decisions. However, this may result in a time consuming bureaucratic process that may negatively affect efficiency and professionalism in the school or organization as more time may be required and compromise may have to be reached. For Example, during administrative decision making, responsiveness may require adherence to professionalism while the principle of democratic accountability demands adherence to the popular will or democracy (West-Burnham, 2003, P. 10, L.7). Based on my knowledge of school administration, the role that the principal plays in the building of the school vision is simply be participate and facilitate reaching a consensus on a vision that reflect the collective thoughts of the broader school community as opposed to single handedly

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Development of Aging Tourists Market in China Dissertation

Development of Aging Tourists Market in China - Dissertation Example Studies conducted by The World Health Organization revealed that ageing population includes the people who are 60 years of more of age. Although this population is more prone to opt for tourism opportunities, however, tourism management authorities have not been encouraging this because of the various costs that are involved with this from which the major ones include cost of security, medical and time. Tourism management refers to the management of all the activities that are related to tourism and this also includes those activities that are related to tourism. Furthermore, they also have to implement strategies that promote tourism and provide easy access to people for the purpose of tourism. Tourism Consumption System The authors, Dubelaar and Woodsie (2002) have defined the tourism consumption system (TCS) as the set of related travel thoughts, decisions, and behaviors by a discretionary traveler prior to, during, and following a trip. The central proposition that the authors have given by this theory is that the thoughts, decisions, and behaviors with regards to an activity have a major impact on the thoughts, decisions, and behaviors for the other activities. Further in the article, the authors have used exit interview travel data and quick clustering analysis for the purpose of examining the seven main propositions of tourism consumption system on the basis of which the tourists take decisions. It has also been said by the authors that this approach is very beneficial for the marketers and practitioners with regards to tourism and this would greatly help them in increasing the effectiveness of the tourism marketing strategies. Tourism Behavior The set of responses that the people develop with regards to tourism develop tourism behavior and this determines their likeliness and their interest. There are some elders who opt for places which are more lively and colorful while there are some people in the ageing population who prefer going to places which are calm and serene. Sustainable Tourism According to Dubelaar and Woodsie (2002), tourism involves a certain cost which can be monetary as well as time and energy of the tourists. Since the ageing popula

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One Flew over the Cuckoos Nest Essay In One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, Ken Kesey tells the story of Randle McMurphy, a rebellious, boisterous and overtly sexual man who utilizes his extroverted qualities to win over his fellow patients in the mental institution. McMurphy’s confident nature and non-conforming attitude brings hope to everyone living in the ward. Ultimately, he sparks dissent and inspires them to go against the oppressive head nurse, Nurse Ratchet. McMurphy’s confidence does not waver until he realizes that Nurse Ratchet will always have the upper hand over the patients. Nevertheless, this does not stop him from concocting plans to provoke and get rid of her. McMurphy receives many harsh punishments for his actions and eventually loses the battle against the head nurse. Not only does he lose against Nurse Ratchet, but he eventually loses himself through the process. Additionally, in the film The Experiment, the protagonist Travis, undergoes an adversity which is comparable to what McMurphy faces in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest. The development of both characters can parallel each other through the similarities of their actions. Kesey first introduces McMurphy to readers when he is brought to the mental institution. At first glance, McMurphy can be viewed as a con man. He committed the crime of statutory rape but instead of accepting a jail sentence he convinces the judge that he is not straight in the head and is thus sent to a mental institution. Most patients at the ward are unresponsive, yet when he first arrives at the institution, he introduces himself to everyone. The patients and nurses are taken aback by McMurphy’s feisty attitude. Unlike the other patients, McMurphy is loud, arrogant, and capable and it is evident to everyone that he does not belong in a place like that. After the wards group meeting, McMurphy sees firsthand how Nurse Ratchet abuses her power as head nurse. He makes a bet with all the patients in the ward that he can make lose her temper. The patients warn him and insist that Nurse Ratchet not one to be messed with but he still acts otherwise. In this instance, McMurphy’s rebellious nature shines through. It is made clear to readers that he will not allow Nurse Ratchet to win over the patients for long. He wants to give her a hard time and hopefully get rid of her. Nurse Ratchet sees McMurphy’s deviance and knows that she must break him, just like she broke all the other patients so she can continue her oppressive leadership over the ward. After numerous confrontations between McMurphy and Nurse Ratchet, the patients in the ward find the incidents quite amusing. Eventually, McMurphy is able to rile up all the patients and encourage them to watch the World Series on the television. Although it was not their allotted time to watch the television, they all participate in the rebellion. Through McMurphy actions, the patients see that they should not view Nurse Ratchet as an oppressive and domineering force. They begin to feel hope inside themselves and begin to envision that living in the ward will not be as miserable as it once was. Nurse Ratchet’s patience begins to wear thin and once McMurphy physically attacks her, she quickly makes the decision to have him lobotomized and leaves him neurologically disabled. After this event, the patients can no longer live in the ward. McMurphy was a friend to all and they could not stand living under Nurse Ratchet’s rule. She loses all control and the patients transfer to other wards or check out of the institution completely. McMurphy’s eventual destruction and death was not out of vain as he was able to transform the patients into believing that each person was an individual and should be able to freely express themselves. He left them with a belief that would aid them for the rest of their lives. Randle McMurphy’s feisty and strong-willed character can easily parallel many dominant male characters in films. For example, in the 2010 film The Experiment, Paul T. Scheuring directs the story of 26 men who are selected to take part in a 14 day experiment where some participants act as guards and others as inmates. The guards have only one rule to follow they must make sure the inmates obey the basic rules of living in a prison. Eventually the power wielded by the guards gets to their heads. They abuse their roles and exploit and humiliate the inmates. They become great oppressors and being to forget that the inmates are only human. Violence begins to ensue. The protagonist, Travis, is selected to be an inmate in the prison. From the beginning, it is made apparent that Travis is not buying into the whole prisoner concept. Just like McMurphy, Travis acts out as an individual. He is not one to follow others and ceases any opportunity to give the guards a difficult time. He then begins to act out in defiant ways. He mobilizes the inmates and leads rebellions against the guards. He and many other inmates firmly decide that they will not be silenced into submission. Eventually, the experiment goes wildly out of control and is stopped by researchers. Like Randle McMurphy, Travis fights back against the oppressors. He did not like seeing his fellow inmates get taken advantage of. Travis begins rebelling and disobeying the rules in small ways, such as refusing to eat his meals. Eventually, he uses physical force to end the tyranny in the prison. Randle McMurphy and Travis are similar characters in many ways. They both were able to unite the group of men that were facing the same adversity. They did not like seeing any of their own getting harmed. Furthermore, just like McMurphy, Travis acts in defiant ways to get into the guards heads. And finally, both use physical force to hurt their oppressors at the very end. To sum it up, they are the spark that brings hope to the oppressed and lead the rebellions against the oppressors.