Abolishing Mandatory Attendance For Schools Essays - Student

Abolishing Mandatory Attendance For Schools Essays - Student Abolishing Mandatory Attendance For Schools So that nobody has to go to school if they don't want to, by Roger Sipher states that compulsory attendance laws should be abolished. His argument is that students that don't wish to be in school are antagonistic to the school and prevent others form learning, and therefore not be forced to attend school. There are six advantages. Although these six advantages produce enormous dividends, there are still some major flaws with his plan. First flaw with the plan is where are the children going to go? The children can't just run the streets not being able to even read or write. Therefore you need supervision, but with supervision comes money. And there are not many people who would even take this babysitting job because of the money. Money is the second big issue. The funds are just not there to run a quality, high-tech school and pay the teachers. Thirdly, can children of that age make a sound decision about something as important as school? No, of course not. Children of this age just don't have enough experience with life to make that important of a decision for their future. Another motive for children not performing up to standards is the pressure. Maybe to much pressure is being put on students to perform in this high-tech world. The emphasis as faded away from the basic skills of reading and writing and arithmetic and has now focused on technology. The pressure needs to be taken off the children at such a tender age in their lives. And be put back on what really matters. The students who chose to be antagonistic can be sent to alternative schools such as Boot camps, Boys and Girls club, YMCA, and other local programs and organizations. The problem here is not attendance; the problem here is attitude. Although this plan has great features there is however an effect that is detrimental. The ability to read, write, and even the basic arithmetic are skills that everyone NEEDS to know. What in the world are you going to do with a kid that is in his twenty's and can't perform these basic skills. This is not going to be good. Although Sipher's plan is a very good idea, the cons outweigh the pros. This plan would solve many problems, but in the long run it would create more.

Analytical Essay Sample on #8220;A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings” by Gabriel Garcia Marquez

Analytical Essay Sample on #8220;A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings† by Gabriel Garcia Marquez The short story â€Å"A Very Old Man with Enormous Wings† by Gabriel Garcia Marquez exposes the tendencies of human nature and society in general. The reactions of all the members of the community to the events in the story reflect their inclinations as human beings, both good and bad. Pelayo lives in rural area with his wife and child. One afternoon he was shocked to find that a very old man with wings was lying face down in the mud in his courtyard. At first he was frightened and ran to retrieve his wife to see what she would make of it. Upon her arrival they had both stared at the man together in a mute stupor for quite some time. This is a typical reaction from most people in such a situation. At first they were in a state of fear, fear of the unfamiliar. When people are exposed to a scenario that is out of the ordinary for them and conflicts with their everyday lives they grow afraid and even hostile. Then a stage of curiosity follows, Pelayo and his wife quietly observe the man from a distance as to gather any information they can about him. After observing the man who seemed frail and uncivilized they decide to call upon a neighbour who might be knowledgeable in such situations. She wasted no time in proclaiming that he must be an â€Å"angel†. Her re action to the man with wings was influenced purely by her faith. Her blind assumption was made because of what she has been taught and what she wanted to believe. This is typical of people who are very religious as they tend to interpret various events as having a deeper more meaningful significance. â€Å"The angel was held captive in Pelayo’s house.† (Marquez 487) Marquez’s choice of words reflects her intention to show Pelayo’s hostility towards the angel. He also watched over him all afternoon with a bailiff’s club. He is obviously uncertain of the angel and decides to imprison him and take no chances. He does not think very much of the angel because he â€Å"drags† him into in a chicken coop and locks him up among the hens. This act demonstrates basic human nature, the angel was old, unattractive, and decrepit, so he tosses him in a filthy coop. Pelayo judges him solely on his appearance, had the â€Å"angel† looked like an angel is supposed to like and had been all white, attractive, and sophisticated, Pelayo would most likely honour and respect him rather than treat him like an animal. Pelayo even considered putting him on a raft and leaving him to die on the high seas. The members of the community quickly learned of this â€Å"angel† that has been found and they became very interested. â€Å"The simplest among them thought that he should be named mayor of the world. Others of sterner mind felt that he should be prompted to the rank of five-star general in order to win all wars. Some visionaries hoped that he could be put to stud in order to implant on earth a race of winged wise who could take charge of the universe.† (Marquez 488) This shows the hopes and expectations of the members of the community. Many had dreams of grandeur and had relied on this angel to put an end to all worldly problems as if he was sent down from god. These expectations however were not rational, they were merely based on their own beliefs and the hype that this angel had generated. Human beings in general are always looking for the easy way out and the simplest way to get a means to their end. This angel served as the answer they had all hoped for. As the story moves forward the people of the town come to realise that this angel was not at all what they had expected nor hoped for. They have grown hostile towards him, they had begun pulling out his feathers, throwing stones at him, or even burning him with an iron. This type of reaction is not unusual in such a situation, they have grown bored of this angel as he does nothing but lie still and try to make himself comfortable. This type of behaviour is exemplified in everyday life in the case of celebrities. As entertainers they keep us amused and fulfill our needs, but when their product turns stale or their songs get played out we lose interest and turn against them. We see this everyday on late night television where hosts poke fun at such celebrities, recently we have seen what the media hype has done to Michael Jackson’s reputation. Meanwhile the carnival has come into town and suddenly everyone has forgotten about the angel and stopped caring. Why see the angel when you can see the tarantula woman? Something bigger and better has arisen and the people of the community have moved on to the next big thing. Why do people act the way they do? Is it selfishness? It is a fact that man’s greatest goal is his own happiness, therefore he can sometimes be insensitive to the people that he walks all over in order to achieve it. Altruism is possible, but even then man gains some satisfaction from his unselfish act, which contributes to his happiness. The society in this short story perfectly reflects human nature and how it sometimes can be ugly. However, for the most part individuals are able to differentiate what is and is not moral and act decently.

Policy making Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Policy making - Essay Example This therefore makes Canada’s healthcare system evenhanded for most of its citizens as most medical facilities costs are subsidized. Conversely, privately run healthcare systems in the US substantially injure the effective delivery of services for citizens (HealthPAC online n.d). According to the National Bureau of Economic Research website (n.d) the US healthcare systems spend a superior percentage of its GDP on healthcare totaling to 16 percent. However, Canada spends much lower percentage at 10.4 percent. This arguably helps in the proper provision of healthcare services. Additionally, Canada unlike the United States performs better in healthcare provisions measures namely rates in infant mortality and life expectancy. The US practices closed systems on grounds that they operate privately. This amplifies the fissure between the upper and low class citizenry. For example, most patients are locked out of the healthcare facilities because of high costs of services and inappropriate insurance systems. Conversely, an aspect of an open system of healthcare is evident in Canada since the operations in the healthcare system are delivered by the government thus subsidizing the cost for many nationals. Policymaking helps in the collective, efficient and transparent provision of services in any sectors of the economy and proper adherence to the same helps in the overall success of the policymakers and citizenry in general. Healthcare system is without doubt vital in the reduction of mortality rates thus emphasis on proper healthcare payment is a good reformation strategy. Nurses remain critical ingredients in the healthcare profession, proving the necessary services that doctors are not able to do. In this regard, proper remuneration is paramount ensure the safe running of the healthcare services in any given country. However, the remuneration packages should not compromise the effective

Learning Log Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Learning Log - Essay Example The situation makes it difficult for the visiting Chinese to enjoy. This idea influenced the owners of this restaurant to create an opportunity to the Chinese in heart of London. Many clients visiting the restaurant have remarked that the restaurant has enabled them to acquire the best in a foreign land. The restaurant respects and promotes Chinese culture. Reception of clients who visit this restaurant would attest to the above fact. The restaurant location is heart English land where one would expect to meet the English culture. However, the uniqueness of the restaurant stem up from the fact that it roots for the native culture of the Chinese. This is the best that a person would imagine especially when an individual has been dreaming of experience the native culture. Language is an aspect of culture, which influences all other activities in the society. The restaurants prefer addressing its Chinese visitors in Chinese language and other visitors in the most appropriate language (T ouro). The idea is to protect the business from failing to cater for the interest of the society. Serving the needs of Chinese people as well as the needs of the people who embraces the Chinese culture is the sole objective of the restaurant. This objective is evident through the long-term service that the restaurant has offered to the society since its inception in 1890s (Chongqing Expat Club, 2008:3). ... Today the practices in the restaurant indicate respect for the Chinese culture. Human culture differs owing to the fact that people live in various geographical regions. The practices observed in London by Londoners are much different from practices of Chinese in Beijing. How the fabric that formed the foundation of the restaurant anticipated to carry the practices alive. My placement at Chongqing San Jia Xiang restaurant exposed me to two events; first, exercises my communication skills in an international environment second to retain stress. The restaurant offers services to international guest visiting or residing in London. Communication is a crucial tool in the hospitality industry that dictates the number clients. Clients visiting various recreational facilities are keen to reception in their new environment. The restaurant offers a warm reception to people (Touro). Exposure to new environment offers an opportunity for learning new approaches. I was not an exception to this exe rcise. I had to receive clients, listen to their demands and respond. The experience was good because the management managed to influence my reaction whenever I misunderstood the clients. People have different abilities yet they need services. It means I had to develop skills of response as well as skills of controlling my temper whenever the demands were out of my taste. The organisation concern promotes an environment where a person could be able to learn. Individual’s presentation influences ones ability to handle clients. The restaurant management and staff created an environment, which encourages an individual to be presentable. The restaurant holds routine departmental meetings, which aims at analysing and attending to problems of the workers. The

Cultural Determinants of Terrorism Essay Example for Free

Cultural Determinants of Terrorism Essay Orchestrated objectives within well-organized terrorist groups suggest that principles of organizational psychology apply to terrorist organizations, under the cultural influence of each one (Borum, 2004). There is much cause for optimism in understanding terrorist organizations, for as Alder and Gunderson (2008) write, â€Å"Luckily, we have learned that global complexity is neither unpredictable nor random† (p. v). The call for research has never been more pressing. Introduction â€Å"Terrorism is an elusive subject, evading precise political, jurisprudential, and cultural definition† (Oliveri, 2008, p. 49). It depends upon the definition of ‘terrorism’. â€Å"With over 100 definitions, this is not an easy task; there is no common understanding of what constitutes ‘terrorism’; no clear and universally acknowledged definition actually exists† (Franks, 2007, p. 2). The definition Munger (2006) proposes that is used for this paper is, â€Å"Culture is defined as the set of ‘inherited’ beliefs, attitudes, and moral strictures that a people use to distinguish outsiders, to understand themselves and to communicate with each other† (p. 131). The distinguishing characteristic of ‘them’ and ‘us’ is perhaps the fundamental belief generated within cultures that makes terrorism towards others possible. Whether viewed in terms of extremist Muslim culture or right-wing American culture, cultural identity supports the conflict of ideologies. Ward (2008) says, â€Å"Terrorism has taken the academic world by storm† (p. 248). The Psychology of Terrorism only became a legitimate academic study in 1982; â€Å"terrorism is far from a new phenomenon, traceable to the French Revolution and the Nihilists of 19th Century Russia† (Franks, 2007, p. ). Undoubtedly, it goes much further into the annals of history than the 19th Century, â€Å"the concept of terrorism had no meaning in history until the modern era† (Bratkowski, 2005, p. 764). Prior to modernity, terrorism was so much a part of daily culture it was normal behavior, without a specific word for it. In fact, for most of Christendom, â €Å"humankind has always provided a justification for killing and instilling terror in fellow humans† (p. 764). It is only recently that most cultures have placed a label of immorality on selective murder to achieve political or cultural ends. Our species has a protracted history and prehistory of terrorism. One might wonder why terrorism has â€Å"taken the academic world by storm†. Insights from Psychology â€Å"Terrorist violence most often is deliberate (not impulsive), strategic, and instrumental; it is linked to and justified by ideological (e. g. , political, religious) objectives and usually involves a group or multiple actors/supporters (Borum, 2004, p. 17). Since terrorist objectives originate within multinational organizations, principles of organizational psychology apply to all terrorist organizations, under the cultural milieu of the organization in question. What is now certain is that terrorism is not a psychopathological aberration, as was originally thought in psychoanalytical circles (Crenshaw, 1992). Terrorist organizations are composed of clear-headed individuals, often with advanced university degrees. Merari (1991) collected empirical data on suicide bombers, and found that psychopathology is almost never a factor in a terrorist’s profile. In fact, â€Å"prevalence of mental illness among samples of incarcerated terrorists is as low as or lower than in the general population† (Borum, 2004, p. 34). This is a clear indicator that we are dealing with psychologies of organization, and not groups of crazed sociopaths. Survival of the organization, a tenet of organizational psychology, has clear implications for the terrorist mindset (Post, 1989), even though â€Å"research on the psychology of terrorism largely lacks substance and rigor. While cultural factors are important, much study remains. â€Å"Future research should be operationally-informed; maintain a behavior based focus; and derive interpretations from analyses of incident-related behaviors† (Borum, 2004, p. 3). The main problem with such a venture might be that terrorists are not giving interviews or taking surveys. Borum points out that â€Å"there is a broad spectrum of terrorist groups and organizations, each of which has a different psychology, motivation and decision making structure† (p. 5). This further underscores the need to be on guard against the ‘stereotypical terrorist organization’: there is none. In a terrorist organization, â€Å"two key narcissistic dynamics are a grandiose sense of self and ‘idealized parental imago’. If one can’t be perfect, at least one can be in a relationship with something perfect† (Borum, 2004, p. 9). Association with a world figure such as Bin Laden satisfies this need; this can lead us back to US culture: promulgation and amplifying worldwide terrorism, via the news media. Bin Laden often makes the evening news, and every time he does, his ‘world stature’ is elevated, especially in the min ds of his followers. It the name Bin Laden was unknown, how much less effective would al-Qaeda become? Media has some degree of culpability, if not complicity in promulgating terrorism worldwide by providing free publicity to organizations and their cause. According to Paul Marsden (CPM, 2001, p. 1), â€Å"the amount of media coverage devoted to these events, by television networks and newspapers, correlates positively with the rise in subsequent `copycat events. This is darkly consistent with the substantial body of evidence for suicide contagion the idea that suicides beget suicide. † If distraught teenagers copy Columbine style shootings, how much more are suicide attacks from terrorist cells encouraged by watching the evening news? Unintentionally but effectively eulogizing angry teens and terrorists alike hold moral implications for the major news media, which need addressing by society. Organizational Psychology provides some insight: if a culture perceives it is losing its ability to contribute its share to the world stage, conflict will result (Rahim, 1986; Katz ; Kahn, 1978). Considering that entire cultures may feel they are losing their ability to contribute because of intervention of external cultures upon their own culture is likely one requisite to the creation of worldwide terror organization formation. Cultural factors of extremist Muslim society While many in the West view extremist Muslim terrorism as irrational behavior by deranged individuals, â€Å"it is perfectly possible to understand terrorism as a rational decision problem, if we accept the premise that culture matters† (Munger, 2006, p. 132). â€Å"Islamic societies, not exclusively, but perhaps to a greater extent than most other nations, are committed to an idea of the perfectibility of humans in societies, through moral education and imposition and enforcement of moral law (Sharia) based on the Quran† (p. 142). This religious adherence adds a great deal of resistance to compromise from outside cultures, and bolsters the extremist elements within Islamic society. Much of the cultural foundation of extremist Muslim culture is their unique interpretation of the Quran: â€Å"The contemporary terrorist mentality and culture, which are rooted in absolutist, either-or, good-and-evil world views, resist efforts to negotiate. Accommodation, bargaining, and mutually acceptable compromise are not envisioned as possibilities within many terrorists’ mental framework† (Smelser ; Mitchell, 2002, p. 1). It appears that once a terrorist organization is established, the only ways to eliminate it is either when they accomplish their objectives, to destroy them, or to take away their reason to exist, which will allow Skinnerian extinction to follow over time. The ‘destroy’ method is problematic and costly: how does one destroy an ideology? Islamic terrorists are well-connected using technology; their geographic locality is literally everywhere and nowhere. Culturally-attuned uses of information technology† are a major source of cross-cultural influences in the creation and sustaining of terrorist organizations (Bailey ; Grimaila, 2006, p. 534). Terrorist organizations are expert in spreading and sustaining their ideology around the world. Once indoctrinated into a group, people will generally follow orders, no matter how extreme or violent, as long as the individual perceives that the order was issued from the appropriate authority (Milgram, 1965). Cultural influences caused normal students at Stanford to transform into ‘merciless prison guards’; once given the role and the authority, al-Qaeda recruits mold easily to orders from Bin Laden. Not only do they have a physical authority, which relieves their individual conscience from objecting, but also they further believe that Allah Himself sanctions Bin Laden and themselves in their efforts to establish Sharia law throughout the world (Bailey ; Grimaila, 2006). There is substantial agreement that the psychology of terrorism cannot be considered apart from political, historical, familial, group dynamic, organic, and even purely accidental, coincidental factors† (Borum, 2004, p. 22). Borum also states, â€Å"Significant differences [exist] both in, 1) the nature and level of aggression in different cultures, and 2) aggression can be environmentally manipulated; both findings that argue against a universal human instinct [of violence]† (p. 12). Diamond (20 04) argues that environmental influences are paramount in understanding why cultures are the way they are. The Fertile Crescent, once the cornerstone of agriculture, became radically altered once all the forests were clear-cut, leaving mostly a barren desert environment. It is interesting to note that the foundation cultures which harbored the seeds of al-Qaeda all come from this former environmental paradise. Therefore, while culture probably has the most influence on the creation of terrorist organizations in the short term today, environment certainly has a large degree of impact over the long term, and might have a large impact in the short term via militaristic or political manipulation. For many critics, global or ‘hyper’ terrorism has become an ultimate expression of acutely depressed geopolitical chaos† (Ward, 2008, p. 252). Geopolitical chaos produces environments ripe with opportunity for recruiters toward the cause of terrorism. Without addressing and rectifying the chaotic areas of the world, it is highly doubtful, that global terrorism will end. Cultures th at feel oppressed or depraved on the world stage may rise in rebellion against the oppressing culture(s), with or without religious dictate. Muslim culture is producing the lion’s share of high-visibility terrorists in the world today (Borum, 2004). One way to understand Muslim culture as it relates to the creation of terrorism is to look at Hofstede’s dimensions. Generally, Islamic countries have large inequalities of status, forming a small ruling group, and a large ruled group with limited power. Hofstede (2001) shows, those Arab cultures have large Power Distance (PDI) (80) and Uncertainty Avoidance (UAI) (68). When these two Dimensions are combined, it creates a situation where leaders have virtually ultimate power and authority. It is not unusual for new leadership to arise from armed insurrection – the ultimate power, rather than from diplomatic or democratic change† (Borum, 2004, p. 44). Virtually the only method available for the downtrodden in Arab society to express their need for change is by armed insurrection. This is a valuable insight into the cultural creation of Arab-based terr orism, possibly the most important one. Naturally, from the ‘terrorists’ point of view they are not terrorists at all but â€Å"freedom fighters†, fighting with their only available means to enact positive change. Does this mean efforts at establishing democracy in Muslim states are likely to fail? Cultural roots run deep, and are resistant to change by outside cultures (Weiten, 2004), so the question of democracy introduced and established by Westerners is a highly speculative venture. Finally, take the case of a female suicide bomber. It was originally assumed that the young woman who committed this act was â€Å"innocent, ignorant, and of questionable morality† (Brunner, 2007, p. 961). It is difficult for Westerners to imagine otherwise. Subsequent interviews revealed that she was educated, showed no signs of emotional disturbance, and was â€Å"as highly intelligent and more independent than other girls in her society, but still fully within the range of normal† (p. 961). The key point is that she was â€Å"fully within the range of normal†, according to the culture that she grew up within. By not understanding her culture, Western culture had labeled her â€Å"innocent, ignorant, and immoral†, overlooking key factors with which to fully understand why a mentally stable young woman would commit such an act, and more importantly, to be able to deal realistically with the rise of extremist terrorism through a lack of cultural understanding. Cultural factors of the United States There is a cultural precedence of powerful nations to label other nations as ‘evil’: a threat to ‘civilization’ (Ivie, 2005). In the U. S. , â€Å"this is a very old cultural theme, deeply ingrained into the political psyche† (p. 56). This cross-cultural mindset of powerful nations is one part in the creation of terrorists in weaker cultures, a type of self-fulfilling prophecy: the call to destroy the ‘barbarians that threaten democracy’ is an ancient one; Greece and Rome had similar ongoing open-ended campaigns against terrorists, as does the U. S. today (p. 55). The main trouble with an open-ended campaign is that it never ends†¦ another cultural perception that needs adjustment on the world stage in order to arrive at peace in the world. Looking at the cultural history of the US, the ‘savage’ has always been the object of distain and genocide, in order to ‘make way for civilization’ (Ivie, 2005). The genocide of indigenous peoples of the North American continent is well documented, even using biological terrorist tactics of germ warfare; giving ‘gifts’ of small-pox laden blankets to Indians without acquired immunity against devastating disease (Diamond, 1997). Oliverio (2008) writes, â€Å"It was also a matter of common sense that the Aryan race was superior. This taken-for-granted reality of Aryan superiority led to the extermination of millions of American Indians, millions of African slaves bound for America, and countless indigenous cultures throughout the world† (p. 21). Powerful cultures that label weaker cultures as savages are a powerful impetus to the creation of terrorism. It is a recent habit of the American Right to wage war against abstractions (Comaroff, 2007, p. 381). The line between metaphorical and real war, blurred beyond recognition, gives rise to such cultural terms as ‘the war against drugs’, ‘the war against poverty’, ‘the war against illegal immigration’ (Sherry, 1995), and has become the standard of cultural mind-set in America today. Again, the US has a â€Å"militarized world-view extended to declaring metaphorical wars on disease, crime, engaging in ‘trade wars’ with foreign competitors, and fighting ‘culture wars’ with one another† (p. 58). â€Å"Culture wars† is the main point in question: how can peace ever prevail if acts of war against culture prevail? Even the Olympic Games that followed 9/11 became a forum for the core Bush Doctrine (Falcous ; Silk, 2005). How does the reduction of civil liberties fare with the response to terrorism? Not allowing college professors to speak out against governmental policies associated with the war on terror (Crowson ; DeBacker, 2008, p. 296) is one form of right-wing authoritarianism that many Americans think needs implementation. A disturbing trend of loss of personal freedoms that some associate with fascism. Taken as a whole, US domestic and foreign policy regarding oil consumption, and support for oppressive regimes, is set aside in deference to critical scrutiny of individual behavior and the forms of ‘moral lassitude’ associated with a culture of dependency† (Hay ; Andrejevic, 2006, p. 344). So at least part of the U. S. cultural mindset is about securing its own economic interests at the expense of decency and fairness on the world stage. Many people think that the U. S. would never have bothered with Iraq if they had no strategic oil supplies, especially in the Middle East and Europe. This belief can only inflame world tensions further. Understanding cross-cultural inter-dependencies A surprising interdependency, regards the Bush Administration itself. According to Kellner (2004), not only Jihadists are responsible for ‘spectacular acts of terror’, but also both Bush administrations. They deployed â€Å"Manichean discourses of good and evil which themselves fit into dominant media codes of popular culture; that both deploy fundamentalist and absolutist discourses† (p. 41). This is extremely similar to the â€Å"contemporary terrorist mentality and culture, which are rooted in absolutist, either-or, good-and-evil world views, resist efforts to negotiate† (Smelser ; Mitchell, 2002, p. 1). The Bush administration openly declares its refusal to communicate with terrorist organizations or states, which is absolutist. We know that incentives flourish within such organizations (Munger, 2006). Incentives usually take two forms: 1) recruit members that are prone to obey and please within a cultural setting (e. g. collectivist rather than individualist cultures), and 2) â€Å"Create a set of incentives that reward loyalty, by giving access to excludable near-public (â€Å"club†) goods† (p. 131). Mohammed Atta reportedly was â€Å"at a strip club spending a lot of money, shouting anti-American slogans, and left a copy of the Quran before he left† (USA TODAY, 2001, p. 1). This incident seems to have fallen under ‘club goods’ instead of operational funds, because it was the night before the hijackings, and such excessive cash was no longer needed. This says nothing of the influence U. S. culture had on Atta, a devout Muslim going to a strip club, one day before he â€Å"meets Allah†. There is no such thing as a ‘terrorist state’, in the absolute sense. Triandis, Bontempo, Villareal, Asai, and Lucca (1988) have shown that national cultures never equate to individual or subgroup cultures, so while a totalitarian governing body may indeed be a terrorist organization, the general populace can in no way be held accountable for the actions of a few. It is a stereotypical mistake to label an entire country as terrorist. It is important to realize that â€Å"both differences and similarities in behavior occur across and within cultures; psychological processes are characterized by both cultural variance and invariance† (Weiten, 2006, p24). Regrettably, â€Å"quite a few nations are culturally reasonably homogeneous† (Hofstede, 1998, p180), and this may mean that a few nations may be mostly extremist in their outlook. Discourses from the Bush administrations paralleled closely to speeches given by Hitler, Pope Urban II, and others: â€Å"an appeal to a legitimate power source external to the speaker; an appeal to the importance of the national culture under attack; the construction of an evil enemy; and an appeal for unification† (Graham, Keenan, ; Dowd, 2004, p. 213). Kellner (2004) feels that â€Å"the disparity between the vast amount of information freely available to all through multimedia sources, and the narrow vision presented on the major news media via television is a travesty†, and a major cultural factor responsible for the deployments of the Bush administrations’ controlled mass media (p. 61). While arguments that ‘freely available news sources from uncontrolled sources’ might suggest this no longer to be a cultural factor, culture by nature takes time to change, and most Americans probably place more credence in the evening news than the newer Internet sources (Kellner, 2003). Another example of how cross-cultural misunderstandings regularly occur between nations: â€Å"when one cultural message sender transmits information to another culture, chances of accurate transmission are reduced† (Alder ; Gunderson, 2008, p. 72), and when nations or organizations refuse to send information between cultures as both the Bush administration and the al-Qaeda organization currently do, virtually no chance of accurate transmission occurs. Stalemate results and wars go on, indefinitely; clear contributors to terrorism. Perhaps nowhere is the question of terrorism more complex than in the European Union: â€Å"European counterterrorism culture is a difficult concept due to the fact that the regional level of analysis encapsulates a range of different national cultures. Europe has always been a rich mixture of various cultures, and ‘terrorism’ is a culturally charged term† (Rees, 2007, p. 220), hence the difficulty in consensus. Conversely, in China, we could expect to find a unified definition of terrorism under the centralized government (Diamond, 1997). While China is suspect of â€Å"using the post-9/11 discourse of counterterrorism to cloak their own domestic priorities† (Rees, 2007, p. 224), most of their counterterrorism efforts are likely to gain support with the Chinese public as being in the accord of the countries best interest: China being a collectivistic nation. â€Å"Terrorists focus their recruitment where sentiments about perceived deprivation are deepest and most pervasive† (Borum, 2004). This helps us to understand why American involvement in Iraq actually helps create recruitment opportunities for al-Qaeda. Destroyed economies, infrastructure, and family support (via killed family members), create extreme deprivation, desperation to right cultural wrongs, and enrage cultural dictates for retribution (Borum, 2004). It even gives insight into where al-Qaeda might be concentrating recruitment efforts in America. For youth torn between two cultures in a foreign land, identity crisis may result from exposure to the foreign culture, and the chiasm between their parent’s cultures: â€Å"radicalism offers simple answers to the big questions they are grappling with† (Ongering, 2007, p. ). The human tendency to stereotype will easily adapt to simple answers rather than grapple with difficult questions (Weiten, 2004). Extrapolated, it may be easier to recruit a terrorist, than to prevent a person from taking up the cause in the first place. Does cultural pressure on a subgroup help to create violent extremists? Muslim communities in America, â€Å"Not only had their religion being p resented incorrectly, but its adherents were being equated with terrorists† (Baker, 2006, p. 302). Considering the degree that Muslim communities in the Western world are subject to intensified scrutiny, and even unwarranted acts of violence against them by US citizenry (Ward, 2008), a good assumption is that many young Muslims will adapt an extremist ideology in response to cultural threat (Sirin ; Fine, 2007), and some of those extremists will turn terrorist. It seems to be a never-ending spiral escalation of one cultural assault upon the other: the ‘Crusades’ continue†¦ It is a real ‘Which came first, the chicken or the egg? ’ question. Which side began this milieu of cultural attack and counterattack? Perceptions run the gamut: â€Å"The terrorist presents a story of heroism and necessary sacrifice. The counter-terrorist presents a counter-narrative of defiance and vengeance, replacing the image of the martyr with that of inhumanity, even bestiality† (Ward, 2008, p. 254). We reminded again of weaker cultures as ‘savage’, and as we have come to see, cross-culturally, nothing could be further from the truth from both extreme perspectives. Another cultural misunderstanding that may have helped to escalate tensions is the perception that the Muslim community in America did not stand up in unison and denounce the acts of 9/11 as atrocious. This initial silent response interpreted by many Americans as tantamount to condoning such acts of terrorism (Munro, 2006). Paradoxically, this lack of public outcry may have been the result of Muslim culture itself, with the majority of Muslims feeling that it was obvious that they had nothing to do with the attacks, and therefore no reason to take a public stand (Munro, 2006). A form of ‘vigilante counter-terrorism’ develops in American culture, which gives rise to anti-Muslim sentiment and acts of violence (Johnson, 2003). One probable contributing factor is termed: â€Å"Sudden Jihad Syndrome† (Pipes, 2006). The perpetrator, â€Å"for all outward appearances, a young Muslim man, well adjusted to Western society, considered friendly; one day, without warning, he acted out an independent Jihad, which injured nine students† (Pipes, 2006). Such unforeseeable and unpredictable behavior influences non-Muslims to stereotype many Muslims as having the same potential toward â€Å"Sudden Jihad Syndrome†. This of course creates an atmosphere of suspicion and mistrust between cultures: how can you tell who the enemy is just by looking at them? Discussion There is no cultural ‘quick fix’ to this pervasive problem confronting the modern world. â€Å"The general policy approach has to be adaptive, opportunistic, and multisided. The conventional problem-solving logic so attractive in American culture—find a problem and then fix it—is of limited utility, and a longer term, more contextualized approach is necessary† (Smelser et al. , 2002, p. 4). For instance, the Global War on Terror (GWOT) as espoused by the Bush Doctrine includes toppling ‘rogue nations’ as part of the effort to thwart terrorism (Borum, 2004). Focusing on ‘nation rebuilding’ of states, that are otherwise subject to deterrent, rather than on organizations that transcend geographic localities and are not subject to deterrent, is a lack of proper cultural understanding of the issues, and will lead to further cultural misunderstandings. It makes sense that if powerful cultures do not make accusations against weaker cultures not understood, or interfere in the sovereign rights of weaker nations, that a large amount of terrorism will fail to manifest by lack of unwanted cultural impetus from foreign powers. One of the biggest troubles seems to be, that powerful countries can arouse their masses which are â€Å"easily pressed into service to rally the nation, quell dissent and effectively inoculate the public against any alternative perspective† (Ivie, 2005, p. 56), the main point being to limit any alternative cultural perspectives as being legitimate relative to one’s own ‘superior’ cultural perspective. This is error. â€Å"An increasingly militarized culture of fear† (p. 9), such as is dominant in the US today, and which has been developing over many decades, cannot reduce the threat of terrorism in the world. Indeed, Muslim culture dictates that retribution be demanded when a family member is taken. Each errant US bomb inevitably creates more ‘terrorists’ (Borum, 2004), cultural ‘deviants’ are created that never would have existed otherwise. Rumors and hundreds of websites have sprung up claiming that FEMA has erected hundr eds of internment camps on American soil is a disturbing part of the changing culture in America today. A Google search of ‘American internment camps’ will pull up hundreds of unsubstantiated claims of such camps, including specific locations; further highlighting the cultural atmosphere of increasing paranoia. Finally, what can help prevent Muslim youth in the U. S. from taking a violent path? According to Sirin and Fine (2007)â€Å"Research that the successful integration of both one’s own culture and the dominant culture, leads to more positive developmental outcomes†¦whereas marginalization, that is disengagement from both cultures, is associated with mental health problems for immigrant youth† (p. 52). Society certainly would do well to address issues of marginalization, in order to help prevent future â€Å"Sudden Jihad Syndrome† (Pipes, 2006). Conclusion While this paper has focused mainly on US and Muslim extremist involvement, state and non-state respectively, it is important to remember that many other states and organizations exist whic h perpetrate terror. Terror is a two way street, with few exceptions. Perhaps the ultimate defense against terrorism is to understand the cultural and cross-cultural causes of it, and with proper knowledge, address the issues at hand. We must avoid stereotypes at all costs, because â€Å"Nearly all terrorists are extremists, but most extremists are not terrorists† (Borum, 2004). â€Å"Long-term orientation versus short-term orientation† (Franke, Hofstede, ; Bond, 1991) may provide insights into which culture holds greater strength in the GWOT. U. S. culture demands immediate results, and has little tolerance for long term strategies, while extremist Islamic culture is bond by the vision of Mohammed, and is prepared to sacrifice for centuries if need be (Borum, 2004). Fortunately, unnecessary warring between cultures may diminish substantially as one of the biggest single benefits of cross-cultural understanding and application of organizational psychological research (Brislan, 1983). â€Å"It is argued that we now live in an age of ‘hyperterrorism,’ where the nature and scale of terrorism has reached a new level, and that the question of ‘How to deal with international terrorism is quickly becoming the defining issue of our age’† (Ward, 2008, p. 248). It is imperative that we make every effort to understand the cross-cultural determinants of terrorism, regardless of cost. Additionally, â€Å"terrorism is a discourse that affects all our lives, and the collateral argument that terrorism somehow validates the occasional abrogation of so many of our most cherished legal principles, is something that should concern all of us† (p. 249). Hogan (2006) offers: â€Å"Due to the logistical and analytical challenges of cross-national comparisons, studies to date have concentrated largely on single nations† (p. 64). While much work remains, understanding the vast scope of cultural interdependencies that help create terrorism is an extremely complex task yet must be undertaken if we are to come to terms with global terrorism. As Hostede (1998) states, â€Å"constructs are products of the mind with which we attempt to understand and predict human behavior in an infinitely complex world†, and all constructs are flawed to some degree. In an infinitely complex world, we will never entirely eradicate terrorism in its many manifestations. Our best hope to eradicate the bulk of organized terrorism is through scientific understanding and conscientious application of rational solutions, freed from cultural bias. â€Å"Culture lies entirely on the â€Å"nurture† side of the ledger, as against â€Å"nature†, or truly nherited traits† (Munger, 2006, p. 134). Solutions to the specter of terrorism will manifest through understanding and responding to such cultural nurture. This paper has posited that understanding other cultures can help to reduce tensions between cultures, which give rise to terrorism and counterterrorism conflicts. As Munger (2006) points out, â€Å"a shared understanding of something that identifies insiders, and excludes outsiders because they do not share this understanding† (p. 133), is perhaps the fundamental commonality between conflicting sides. If we can short-circuit this exclusionary identity concept, by education and promulgate understanding by either, or both sides, and act upon it with responsible communication between parties, then perhaps modern terrorism as we know it will eventually end. It may take many years, because established terrorist organizations are not open to compromise (Smelser ; Mitchell, 2002), but such efforts may play a large part in helping to prevent future recruitment, and help eliminate the need for terrorist organizations within the cultures that originally spawned them; losing their luster they slowly fade from existence.

Ethnic Variation among Cancer Patients Essay -- Medical Research

Ethnicity is a term used to distinguish individuals and classify them into groups based on cultural and occasionally physical characteristics. Ethnic groups vary in the degree to which they exhibit common ethnic factors from those who share no or little cultural traditions to those who share a wider range of factors such as cultural traditions, place of origin, ancestry, language, and religion. To clarify the misunderstanding between ethnic groups and ethnic minorities, ethnic groups vary in their size from those of a small number which called minorities to those of a large number which called majorities(Stillwell & Ham, 2009). There is a substantial evidence that suggests the presence of disparities among different ethnic groups and different socio-economic levels(Hill et al., 2010a, 2010b; Jeffreys et al., 2005; King, 2000, 2001; Tobias & Cheung, 2003) . Maori, for instance, have a lower life expectancy rate than that of non-Maori, to be exact Maori have life expectancy low er by 9 years than non-Maori (Hefford et al., 2005; Tobias et al., 2009 ). Moreover, they show higher susceptibility rates to disease, particularly heart and respiratory diseases and diabetes, compared to non-Maori(Hefford et al., 2005; King, 2000, 2001; Tobias et al., 2009). Similarly, people of low socio-economic level - poor education, housing, and low income- have poor health status (King, 2000, 2001; Tobias & Cheung, 2003). In fact, although ethnic groups are closely related to socio-economic status, ethnic disparities exists in all different groups with different socio-economic level(Tobias & Cheung, 2003). In order to explore ethnic disparities in depth, studies that prove cancer inequalities among different ethnic groups will be provided. ... ...alth Metrics, 1(1). doi: 12773214 Stillwell, J. & Ham, M. (Ed.). (2009). Ethnicity and Integration: Understanding Population Trends and Processes- Volume 3. Dordrecht, Heidelberg, London & New York. Springer. Doi: 10.1007/978-90-481-9103-1 Tobias, M., Blakely, T., Matheson, D., Rasanathan, K. & Atkinson, J. (2009). Changing trends in indigenous inequalities in mortality: Lessons from New Zealand. International Journal of Epidemiology. 38, 1711-1722. doi: 10.1093/ije/dyp156 Hefford, M., Crampton, P. & Foley, J. (2005). Reducing health disparities through primary care reform: the New Zealand experiment. Health Policy. 72(1), 9-23. doi: 10.1016/j.healthpol.2004.06.005 Blakely, T., Tobias, M., Robson, B., Ajwani, S., Bonne, M. & Woodward, A. (2005). Widening ethnic mortality disparities in New Zealand 1981-99. 61(10), 2233-2251. doi:10.1016/j.socscimed.2005.02.011

Development Of Buddhist Education

Buddhism has greatly influenced present day Vietnam. The rise of its civilization can be traced through the effect of Buddhism on the different dynasties. The early wars won by Vietnam can be associated with Buddhist leaders and even the faith that kept the people together during the years of suffering was Buddhism. It has been proclaimed before as the national religion of the country because of its contribution to society and it is only fitting that it be included in the education of Vietnamese children.To gain a better understanding of the development of Buddhist education in Vietnam, we need to know first the roots and development of Buddhism as a religion, what are its beliefs, how it affected the lives of the Vietnamese populace, how it was integrated to education and from thereon discuss the developments that went through up to contemporary times. Buddhism: Origin and Teachings Buddhism originated from southern Nepal around 530 B. C. as an offshoot of Hinduism. Gautama Buddha, â€Å"a prince who bridled at the formalism of Hinduism as it was being interpreted by the priestly caste of Brahmans† , was its founder.He spent years meditating and wandering as an ascetic until he discovered the path of enlightenment to nirvana. Nirvana according to him is â€Å"the world of endless serenity in which one is freed from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. † Buddhism espouses that there are four noble truths – man is born to suffer in successive lives, earthly pleasures and possessions are the cause of this suffering, man shall be delivered from suffering upon cessation of this craving, and following the eight fold path, man shall achieved deliverance – and through this he shall receive salvation.The foundation of the Buddhist concept of morality and right behavior, the eightfold path, consists of right views, or sincerity in leading a religious life; right intention, or honesty in judgment; right speech, or sincerity in speech; right conduct, or sincerity in work; right livelihood, or sincerity in making a living; right effort, or sincerity in aspiration; right mindfulness, or sincerity in memory; and right concentration, or sincerity in meditation†. It is the most important religion in Vietnam.Unlike other religions, â€Å"Vietnamese Buddhism stays on earth rather than ascends up to heaven, attaches to exorcism and prayers for wealth, happiness and longevity rather than heads toward nirvana. † Most Vietnamese practice Mahayana Buddhism rather than its Hindu counterpart. The doctrinal distinction between the two consists of their differing views of Gautama Buddha: the Mahayana school teaches that Gautama was only one of many â€Å"enlightened ones† manifesting the fundamental divine power of the universe; the Theravada school teaches that Gautama was the one-and-only enlightened one and the great teacher, but that he was not divine.The Mahayana sect holds further that laypersons can attain n irvana, whereas the Theravada school believes that only ordained monks and nuns can do so. The beginnings of Buddhism in Vietnam The early beginnings of Buddhism may be traced back from as early as 300 B. C. It was said that Therevada Buddhism have been â€Å"imported directly into Vietnam from India through sea routes since the 2nd century A. D. † Although some believe that â€Å"Buddhism spread first from China to Vietnam's Red River Delta region in approximately the second century A.D. , and then from India to the southern Mekong Delta area at some time between the third and the sixth centuries† , evidence shows that Buddhism reached Vietnam even before it entered China. In the past, Vietnam was very much like the intersection between India and China. At that time, either walking, or by boat, people made a trip from India to China or vice versa, in doing so they must cross Vietnam. Vietnam, therefore, was a good place to stop by for foreign business people as well a s Buddhist monks.Back to 3rd century BC, after King Asoka organized the Third Council -a Conference to Collect the Dharma- at Pataliputra, India, he sent 9 Buddhist monk delegates overseas. The monks went from Afghanistan to the Mediterranean to teach Dharma. One of these, lead by Sona and Uttara went to Burma then Indochina, including Viet Nam. Now, in Haiphong -60miles north east of HaNoi- there is a memorial tower to commemorate King Asoka that was built by local Vietnamese Buddhists at that time to express their gratitude to King Asoka.From that evidence, we may come up with conclusion that Buddhism came to Vietnam as early as 300 years BC, even before China. Then in the second century, Buddhism in Vietnam became more popular and developed with the contributions of Marajivaka, K’Ang Seng Houei, Tchi Kiang Liang three great Buddhist monks who came from India and a local scholar, Mecu Fo. Because Mecu Fo is a key character in Buddhism’s development in Vietnam, we sho uld take a closer look at him. He was Vietnamese or might have been born and raised in a great Chinese-Vietnamese family.We must take into consideration that his place of birth was not originally a Chinese territory, it was just annexed to China from Vietnam. Since he was skilled in Chinese education, he used this skill in order to convert more people into Buddhism. Mecu Fo was mandarin and took advantage of his position to teach his people about Buddhism. Due to his contributions in the propagation and spread of Buddhism in Vietnam, he is considered as the first ever Buddhist lay man in Vietnam. Buddhism: Its Role in Liberation and Its Golden AgeDuring the Ly and the Tran dynasties, Buddhism achieved a golden age in Vietnam. It was during the time of Emperor TRAN NHAN TONG that the first Vietnamese Meditation, Truc Lam Yen Tu was founded , this however did not come until 1010 several decades after Vietnam’s independence from China. However, it is accurate to say that Buddhis m was a very important element in the country’s fight for freedom. For several centuries, the Chinese conquered Vietnam and ruled the people with an iron hand.The Chinese’s main objective was to transform Vietnam into another Chinese territory and annex it afterwards to mainland China. In order to achieve their goal, great atrocities were done to the people both physically and psychologically, the Chinese even employed Sinicization or cultural invasion in order to uproot Vietnamese culture from its citizens and replace it with theirs to ease the annexation. Despite the suffering, there was one thing that kept the Vietnamese people from breaking down and it was their religion.By living on the teachings of Buddhism, the people believed that the wicked shall eventually be punished and that they should keep on surviving until that day comes. During the Chinese rule, revolutions such as that led by two sister trung aimed at liberation were attempted but to no avail. In thes e revolts, Buddhism also played a great role, its temples became the common meeting grounds for freedom fighters and the perfect place to mobilize troops. Finally, in 939 a Vietnamese general named NGO QUYEN, led the Vietnamese people to victory over the Chinese on the decisive battle on Bach Dang river thus ending the Chinese rule.After the war, Buddhist monks in coordination with the newly established government tried to build the kingdom. To show his gratitude, the emperor Dinh Tien Hoang helped organize the Shangha and named Khuong Viet and Phapthuan, both Buddhist monks, as his national security adviser and Secretary of State respectively. Another major milestone for Buddhism during this dynasty was that it was declared as the national religion by the emperor, who was himself a Buddhist.The establishment of the kingdom was coupled with several hardships, the most crucial of all is the threat of another Chinese invasion. Although at first was a mere thought among the people, it became clear when a Chinese spy disguised as a delegate for diplomatic relations entered Vietnam to size up its military power. Upon entering Vietnam, the first person the delegate met was a ferry-man who was to take him to the capital, he was however surprised when the ferry-man was able to converse with him at a level worthy of government office.When the delegate arrived and conversed with Vietnam’s national Security adviser, he concluded based on his meeting with the ferry man and Khuong Viet that Vietnam was well-prepared for an invasion and that invading it would be disastrous. Apparently, the ferry-man who amazed and confused the delegate with the level of learning of a mere ferry-man was Phaptuan in disguise. In the end, the two highest-ranking monks were responsible for averting a possible attack through their diplomatic skills and it forever went on in history as the first diplomatic war won by Vietnam.After more than 30 years, the Chinese began to strengthen its mil itary force on the borders of Vietnam resulting to an election of a fitting leader to decide on the course of action on the said threat. The leader chosen was a talented, kind and high moral man, he was the Commander in Chief of the army and is known as Ly Cong Uan, thus started the Ly Dynasty. Ly Cong Uan was a Buddhist monk raised by Zen Master Van Hanh in a Buddhist temple who then became his national adviser. Under his reign, 300 Buddhist temples were built and the Sangha was well organized with over 1000 monks. He incorporated Buddhist teaching in all aspects of governance.

Marketing Case Study for Glitz Essay

1. What factors affect the pricing decisions for a product such as Glitzz? Analyze these factors and comment on the range of prices that can be set. The right price must generate enough sales dollars to pay for the costs of developing, producing, distributing and marketing the product as well as earn a profit for the company. There are various factors that affect the pricing decision such as objectives, demands and market forces. We will examine these factors in detail below. 1.1 Company Factors Before embarking on pricing decisions, it is necessary to understand company’s objectives. Lee Jr. and Albert are looking to achieve long-term profit making and sustainability in the market. Higher importance would then be given to obtaining increased market share and sales over immediate profit making. Glitzz needs to focus on gaining foothold in the market, as it would be a new product facing relatively established competing brands and products. As such, Glitzz should not be priced at premiums but instead work to encourage trials, consumer acceptance and return business. If successful, high profits should follow. 1.2 Consumer Factors Consumer factors such as demand for the particular product class, product or brand, price and availability of similar product, price sensitivity as well as perceptions of value can affect pricing decisions and help Lee Jr. and Albert gauge feasibility and acceptability of prices. The demand for the product is extremely important for pricing decisions. The greater the demand, the higher can the product be priced. Demand by consumers is affected by four factors. (1) Consumer Tastes (2) Price and Availability of Substitutes (3) Consumer Income and (4) Price of product. Glitzz can be classified as unsought goods; products that potential consumers do not normally want or know they can buy. These products are not searched for and do not create demand in consumers initially. Consumers of such product only buy when they perceive the necessity for it. As such, creation of awareness and education about product benefits becomes crucial for retailers and creators. This translate to the need for increased budgeting assigned to advertising strategies such as personal selling, relatively aggressive advertising and benefit demonstrations, increasing fixed overhead costs for marketing and distribution. Glitzz would be a complementary product, with its demand somewhat predicated on the prices and sales of relevant product classes such as jewelry, diamonds and watches. There is negative cross elasticity between Glitzz and the above mentioned product class, i.e. the decrease in prices of jewelry, diamonds and watches would bring an increase in demand for cleaning agents such as Glitzz. In times of recession, luxury goods such as the above may not be highly sought after, affecting Glitzz’s ability to sell due to its nature as a derived product. Pricing strategies should take into consideration market trends and demands of these product classes and be adjusted accordingly. Consumers’ perception of values and benefits provided by a product will affect the amount of money they are willing to pay in exchange for the product and their price elasticity. Assessing value involves the judgment by a consumer of the worth and desirability of a particular product relative to its substitutes. At the core level of the product, Glitzz is a jewelry cleaner, delivering to consumers the opportunity to renew and bring back the shine in their precious stones, jewelry and watches. The tangible benefits offered come from the product’s non-corrosive, non-abrasive and gentle on skin nature. Premium natural ingredients used in the making of the product are also marketed as a key attribute. The attribution values of Glitzz will translate into a definitive price that consumers deem worthy for the product. Lee Jr. and Albert have already taken steps to survey consumer market and test product responses. The NUS student researchers found that few consumers are willing to pay more than SGD20 for the product. Price and availability of similar products are also strong molding forces on pricing for new entry products such as Glitzz. Technological advances and increasingly discerning consumers meant heightened awareness about substitute products and prices. The ability to compare similar products and weigh out the benefits against cost, affects consumers’ decision-making and willingness to pay for a product. The way to mitigate such comparisons is to possess strong distinguishing characteristics from its competitors. Glitzz, however, seem to be substitutable by many alternatives in the market. An in-depth competitor analysis is as follow. Brilliant Restorer and Glitzz Brilliant Restorer and Glitzz appear to be offering analogous product benefits and have similar dispensing system and packaging. It is also under a largely established distributor brand, Gordon Max. It is distributed through channels that Glitzz is thinking of using, taking up counters at large departmental stores such as Tangs. It appears to be Glitzz’s main competitor, targeting similar markets, offering similar benefits and marketing in similar channels. Connoisseur and Glitzz Connoisseur practices product differentiation, offering a range of specialized cleaning agents for different kinds of metals. It may lose out on the convenience associated with the all-purpose Glitzz, but can market it’s specialized uses as a plus point. The company has strong advertising roots, marketing its products in mainstream newspapers and online. Glitzz may face threats stemming from Connoisseurs strong advertising efforts. Powervescent and Glitzz Powervescent is a tablet-form cleaning product, offering similar benefits at very low price. It may be less convenient to use when compared to Glitzz’s pump bottle design. Powervescent does not distribute in Singapore and is in process of setting up its e-store. While Powervescent may prove to be a competitor among price sensitive consumers in the future, its low prices may also be viewed as a reflection of its quality. As such, it may not be as big a competition to Glitzz as others. Cleaning Machines and Glitzz The second tiered competitors offer jewelry-cleaning machines with high technology performances such as the Connoisseur Jewelry Bath ($49), Savco Jewelry Cleaner ($95) and OSIM uSonic ($108). It is priced much higher than cleaning solutions such as Glitzz but seem to promise better and more targeted results. The products may be marketed at affluent consumers or retailers mostly. It is not as close a substitute as portable, self-administered cleaning products such as Brilliant Restorer. Other solutions for dirty or tarnished jewelry include common soap and toothpaste as well as free cleaning services provided by retailers as a value-add for purchases. The large number of substitutes makes demand for such products very elastic; i.e. consumers are price-sensitive and decrease in prices will lead to increase in demand for the product. Glitzz would have to pay extra attention to Brilliant Restorer and Connoisseurs as they are close substitutes and their prices will be critical in the pricing decision. Glitzz is a normal good and is relatively price elastic as compared to necessity goods or luxury goods. As such, lowering prices and keeping check with competitors’ prices becomes the key to increasing consumer demand. 1.3 Competitive Factors Pricing for Glitzz is constrained by the type of market in which it competes. Jewelry cleaning products compete in a monopolistic competition market structure. There are a number of competitors competing on both price and non-price factors. For example, Lockhart competes with its low prices in the sector while OSIM offers high technology solution as the unique selling point. Understanding the environment in which they compete will allow a deeper insight into the range of acceptable prices, extent of market differentiation and importance of advertising. In such an environment, Glitzz should allocate more budgets to advertising to distinguish itself from its competitors. This means a rise in costs and subsequently, a necessary rise in pricing. Also, its prices should strive to not deviate too much from the competing products’ prices. To be effective, pricing must work to cover the costs and make profits. It is therefore necessary to take into considerations the various costs involved in producing, packaging, marketing and distributing the product. The cost of production for Glitzz in this case includes the SGD5000 re-packaging consultation fee and the direct production cost of Glitzz cleaning solution and fees associated with packaging it into 30ml pump bottles to achieve sales state. Overhead costs may also include distribution fees such as retailer’s cut in exchange for sales services and media fees to advertise the product. Keen research and delicate mediation of all the above company, consumer and competitive factors will allow conclusion of a feasible price that is most symbolic of the value Glitzz hold. I propose a price range of SGD13 to SGD17. The ultimate upper limit as surveyed by NUS students is SGD20. The ultimate lower limit is established with the unit variable costs and other production costs in mind, which will be SGD5 at the initial stage. The recommended price ranging between SGD13 to SGD17 takes into consideration competitors’ prices, company’s objectives and consumers’ buying responses. The suggested price should work to undercut competitors’ prices and stimulate trials while not deviating too much from the market rate. This way, Glitzz can remain profitable, competitive and achieve a breakeven within a short period of time. 2. What price would you recommend for Glitzz? Why? I would recommend Glitzz be sold at SGD14. In the monopolistic competition market structure, Glitzz cannot simply establish its price as an independent company. It has to be subjected to the market demand and supply forces, causing prices to be relatively similar to its close competitors. To use a demand-oriented pricing approach, Glitzz should engage in penetration pricing. By setting a relatively lower price to its competitors, Glitzz can ensure interest and high levels of appeal during the launch stage in the market. Whether or not penetration market works is predicated on several factors. Firstly, consumer base should be relatively price sensitive. This aspect is fulfilled in the case of Glitzz. With the existence of many substitute products in the market, there is high demand elasticity. Consumers with no immediate preferences or prior experiences may make purchase decisions based on prices. By setting the price at SGD14, Glitzz can subtly undercut its competitors and establish its value. Secondly, as a new product in its introductory stage, Glitzz has to work on overcoming its weakness in terms of its new entry and unknown brand identity. Glitzz’s main objectives should then be to stimulate trials and slowly accumulate market share. Penetration pricing helps to encourage first purchases and can work hand-in-hand with quality control and good brand management to build market share. Increased volume of sales will help maximize profits for Glitzz as unit production and marketing costs falls. That being said, Glitzz products must not be priced too low and deviate too much from similar competitors. Assuming Glitzz eventually decides to market and distribute its product through large departmental stores like Robinsons, its breakeven price for the initial batch of 20,000 where total cost = profit margin will be at SGD10.50. We have to price higher than SGD10.50 to break even and lower than SGD14 to SGD17 to undercut the competition. It is not feasible for Glitzz to price its product closer to the end of SGD10.50. Firstly, it may encourage a price war where competitors engage in successive price-cutting to increase or maintain market share. This can only be detrimental to the entire industry in the long run. Secondly, Glitzz as a new company needs to have buffer in profits to invest in further marketing or advertising efforts, cope with emergency operational issues or save up for brand expansion. Also, the skimming pricing method would not work for Glitzz as its product is too homogenous and not differentiated enough to justify premium pricing. In addition, the pricing of Glitzz cleaning solution at the higher end of the SGD10.50 to SGD14 range ensures Glitzz have future opportunities and space to conduct promotional initiatives such as discounts and still be profitable. Consumers may not take kindly to products increasingly their prices after a successful intitial promotion period where low prices were offered. This may affect their perceived image of the brand and be detrimental to future sales. In essence, Glitzz product pricing must be low enough to undercut competitors to generate interest in consumers and high enough to allow profit maximization. While the penetration pricing strategy can help to build volume, managers must keep close track of the costs and monitor its effects on the market. 3. What strategy would you propose for Glitzz? What costs and expenses would be involved? Calculate the break-even point. Glitzz at its point of entrance would be at the introduction stage of its product life cycle. Here, the marketing objective should be to gain awareness. This objective is further amplified by the nature of Glitzz as an unsought good. There is high level of need for promotional and advertising efforts to inform and educate the public about the presence and benefits of Glitzz. According to past track records, Glitzz did well in promoting with in-store counters and consumer exhibitions. This has roots in the personal selling and benefits-demonstration means of promotion. I would recommend Glitzz to continue with such channels of marketing and to distribute and promote their products with departmental stores such as Robinsons. As a new product, this would allow consumers to experience the benefits of Glitzz first-hand at well-established shopping places, triggering first purchases and trials. To give a concrete example, on top of in-store distribution, Glitzz could hold demonstration booths at shopping mall forums to introduce its products. Free samples could be given out to generate brand awareness and trials. Costs involved and Assumptions made * Production cost of one bottle of Glitzz at SGD5 (Unit Variable Cost) * Branding Consultation Fee at SGD5000 (Fixed Cost) * Promotional Event at approximately SGD25000 (Fixed Cost) Amount from assuming a 3 days (6 hrs/day) promotional event at a shopping mall costing about SGD9000 in rentals, with an estimated 3000 samples to be given out and an employment of 3 sales assistants at SGD100 per day. The event will total up to about SGD$24900 * Distribution Margin for Retailers at its maximum of 50% Profit Margin * One bottle of Glitzz is priced at SGD14 Hence given the list price of SGD14, the newly incurred marketing cost coupled with the sunk cost of consultation fee will result in the breakeven point being at 15 000 bottles of Glitzz, a highly feasible goal. I believe that promotions and demonstrations should be used at the initial stage of the product launch to create awareness and inform consumers of its existence. Subsequently, advertising in other forms should follow to distinguish Glitzz from its competitors and achieve brand recognition and preference. Glitzz would have to reevaluate costs and prices to determine next marketing move then.

The Health Benefits of Wine Essay Sample

The Health Benefits of Wine Essay Sample The Significance of Wine Essay Example The Significance of Wine Essay Example Wine represents a distilled drink made from fermented grapes or other fruits. Grapes ferment without the addition of sugars, enzymes, acids, water, or other nutrients owing to the healthy organic equilibrium. Sugar in the grapes is spent by yeast and subsequently transformed into ethanol and carbon dioxide. Diverse ranges of wines are made from an assortment of grapes and strains of yeasts. Intricate connections among the biochemical fruit growth, fermentation reactions, the terroir, and consequent appellation, along with human participation in the whole procedure, constitute to the known differences. Wine boasts of a sequential past that dates to ancient times, and it still is created and consumed by millions of people. Wine Effect People Wine has significant value rising from history. Wine constitutes a culture where it is drunk for various reasons and purposes. Consumption of wine depends on the intention. On a notable front, wine has been discovered to possess medicinal value. The following research has exposed the nutritional value of wine and its contribution to the overall health. One should say that wines match with different meals due to the occasion or other factors as discussed. The significance of wine in society is immense where and it is used for various reasons. In addition, wine has been observed to have an economic impact where it has contributed to the growth of economies. The following research analyzes the factors in detail. The History of Wine French winemakers learned their skill after increasing a flavor for Italian wine. Archeologists found bits of grapes on a stone platform from a location in southern France. These bits suggested that people used the platform for plodding the fruit to make wine (Gelling 14). The wine press provides the earliest molecular proof for wine making in France, and the traces in the amphorae support the idea that local wine making was motivated by trade with Etruscans from Italy. Over the centuries, the skill of wine has creation extended to France and other European countries. By that time, wine had become an important part of the daily diet, and people began to appreciate stronger and heavier wines. During the sixteenth century, wine became esteemed as a better substitute for beer, and as wine products began to expand, people began to value the idea of varying their drinking habits (Gelling 24). Virtues and vices of wine were converted with greater delight than in the preceding centuries. Enhanced production procedures led to the rise of finer qualities of wine, and glass bottle with tops began to be used. The French wine industry took off at the point when the corkscrew was devised (Gelling 28). Traditionally, medium sweet wines were produced in the precipitous areas where, due to weather and soil conditions, late harvest and early winter barrel fermentation conserving the wine (McIntyre 23). Availability of fresh, clean drinking water was a development that moved the wine industry into a new age. For next 150 years, wine creation has been entirely transformed into an art and science. With access to cooling, it has become easy for wineries to control the fermentation procedure temperature. The control of process climate has led to the manufacturing of high-quality wines in hot climates. The introduction of wine garnering machine has permitted winemakers to increase the size of their wineries and make them more efficient. Nowadays, the wine industry faces the test of meeting the demands of an ever-increasing market without losing the distinct character of its wines. Technology has helped to guarantee a continuous supply of quality wines. Modern wine gratitude pays tribute to the timeless art of wine making and demonstrates the importance of wine in the history (Gelling 34). Culture of Wine There is great amount of evidence for the importance of cultural factors in determining both drinking patterns and their magnitudes. Archeologists findings for the cultural roles of wines may have significant associations for policy makers particularly in areas where economic and political meeting could have the major impact on drinking cultures and their related lifestyles (McIntyre 28). Uses of wines in cultural functions and its role in transitional and celebratory rituals rates from the different demonstration, among them are symbolic purposes. Wine was used as a symbolic vehicle for recognizing, describing, constructing, and controlling cultural systems, values, interactive relationships, conduct norms, and prospects (Shaw 78). Choice of wine is hardly a matter of personal taste. At some levels, wines are used to describe the nature of the event. In many western cultures, different wines are tantamount with various festivities, for example, champagne is associated with celebrati ons. The type of wine served defined the nature of the occasion and the cultural relationship between the drinkers. In cultures with the more reputable heritage of traditional practices, views of situational suitability may involve intricate differences. Rules governing the uses of certain wines are tightly observed. For instance, certain wines are served before the meals while others are served after meals (Demossier 28). It is viewed as highly unfitting to serve or drink wine outside these particular situational backgrounds. There is no doubt that drinks have become an emblem of national identity. Ones national beverage can be an influential expression of ones loyalty and cultural identity. The national drink is often the representational emphasis for encouraging, sometimes perfect or glamorized, descriptions of the overall personality, values, and manner of life (Shaw 82). In some cultures, wines signify customary values of purity, generosity, and virility. Therefore, to reject the drink could be perceived as a refusal of these standards. Over the years, wines have encouraged active cultural in teractions, mutuality and sharing in the devoted drinking places. Intimate cultural groups are formed in drinking places where benches surround the tables, which forces physical contact between customers. Small groups find themselves at the same table often making friends with their nationals, and people share wine and jokes, strengthening their cultural ties for the rest of the evening. In cultural views of alcohol and wine, the indication suggests that the drinking venue meets some deep-seated, universal human needs. Culturally, wine has been used for ritual roles (McIntyre 32). Some ritual or celebrations mark almost all event of any importance in people’s lives and nearly all of these rites, in numerous beliefs, presuppose consumption of wines. Transitional rituals for events such as birth, coming-of-age, weddings, and death as well as significant life changes such as attainment or retirement and even far less major changes like the everyday switch from labor to leisure wholly entail ceremonial authorization (Demossier 35). The idea of ‘rites of passage, which are the rituals marking changeover from one position or phase in the lifetime to one more, has long been a principal of the anthropological diet. Rites of passage serve to build, enable, and improve the difficult passage from one social, physical or economic state to the next. Wine, in most cultures, is a crucial element of such rituals. The rites of passage associated with death, like those of birth and marriage, often involve several stages, each marked by drinking, and sometimes distinguished by different patterns of drinking. Nutrition of Wine Wine is known to have nutritive values where in some cases, it brings powerful health benefits, for instance, a glass a day may help reduce the risk of heart ailments and cancer. Wine is known to help in digestion, reduction of stress and even improving one’s skin due to its content of antioxidants. For example, for clear, smooth, and soft skin one can swap wine for the standard toner. One can soak cotton balls in red wine or transfer wine into a mini spray bottle and spray onto the skin. It is useful to massage the skin with fingertips to revive the skin. Studies have shown that the antioxidant phenolic compounds in wine might obstruct the pathological progress of Alzheimers disease. Slowing diabetes progress can be attributed to modest amounts of red wine in men. If spent in moderation as part of a balanced diet, wine should have no effect on the developing diabetes. A modest quantity of wine before sleep time can benefit someone catch slumber extra peacefully. Wine comprise s a great level of melatonin, which can aid an individual wind down added rapidly (Shaw 86). Wines’ antioxidant properties increase levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and protect against artery destruction, thus reducing the risk of heart disease. Wine and Meals Different kinds of wines match various types of meals. In other words, certain food dishes are combined with certain types of wine to improve the feasting experience. Most food and wine specialists believe that the most rudimentary component of diet and wine blend is considering the equilibrium amid the mass of the nourishment and the heaviness of the wine. Diet and wine complement each other because of the competitions and differences they compromise to each other. Nourishment flavors well with wine since wine delivers additional convention of aromas, flavors, and feels that perform as a hindrance to the smells, tastes, and feels of the nourishment being consumed (Plack 21). Some foods work so well with certain wines that the match becomes definitive. Classic food and wine mixtures include Champagne and Oysters, Sauternes and Roquefort Cheese, Red Burgundy and Roast Bee, Red Bordeaux and Lamb, Port and Stilton Cheese. The mixture is the most rudimentary way in which food and wine go together (Marie 18). Society Individuals do trade with wine in Asia. The wine industry is expedited by an even bigger intake of wine among female customers. China’s large market has seen barter trade thrive well where barrels of wine serve even as the standard of exchange. Wine has a spiritual importance in Judaism as it characterizes an essential part of Jewish laws and customs. There exist blessings recited over wine or grape juice to sanctify the Shabbat. It becomes a rabbinic duty for adults to drink wine in the course of the Seder. Christians also distinguish wine in Eucharist. Wine is regularly recommended for various sicknesses by Hippocrates, the forefather of modern medicine, and by many distinguished doctors. Mostly, many southern European states regard wine to be healthy for the nation-making process that wine is defined in a dissimilar class from other alcohol forms. Drinks are used to describe the setting of the event. Wine is used as a condition definer where it is used to projecting the nat ure of the occasion. People get together and celebrate with wine, as it is synonymous with celebration. Wine also describes the communal association between the drinkers. Wine is regarded a suitable supplement to a meal and it is necessary for festive events. The use of wine follows recognized custom of customary practices, for example, in France where there are rules governing the uses of wine. In France, white wine is always served first before red and before meals (Plack 34). Wine is used as a rank gauge. In Poland, wine is considered as a high-status and middle-class drink. Polish campus learners in specific were found to drink extra wine than their American equals, emphasizing their status and specialness as the nations elite. In prehistoric Rome, wine implied not only the elites drink, but its diversity and caliber ability allowed its use as a differentiator as well. Likewise, wine is todays emphasis on articulate choices. Wine is also used as an account of association where an affirmation of involvement in a particular group or any other beliefs is linked with standards, approaches, and views. Wine is used in the north of Europe where it is related to current lifestyles and ideals to distinguish classes (Shaw 92).The extremely educated individuals of northern Europe drink wine while the less educated ones from the south favor customary drinks. Marriage ceremonies in most cultures use wine in their events. In France, the engagement event is often a more prolonged and active development comprising wine intake in every phase. In Poland, rites of passage linked with death, like those of matrimony and birth, involve numerous stages accompanied by wine imbibing. Historically speaking, wine intake has typically manly inferences, with supplementary values associated with virility and diversity from feminine gender. Nevertheless, currently wine is considered a usual mature product. Economic The monetary worth of wine upsurges and falls over time. Wine becomes comparable in this way to the long-standing pillars of product venture. Communal and commercial forces affect wine price slowly; hence, the forecast of changes in wine value is clear than other asset merchandises. A states fiscal circumstances have a firm demeanor on the wine market (Hoemmen, Altman, and Rendleman 51). Wine prices customarily reflect local and universal commercial trends whether for venture or intake. Wine tourism also encourages the possibility of expanding in the near prospect (Carlsen 16). The expansion is done by tourism to the winemaking places, which aside from presenting a chance to see where and how wine is prepared, offers travelers an opportunity to learn about winemaking (Gelling 48). The effect is of high economic value. Economically, the size of wine markets has vital commercial consequences for areas and states for indigenous and global production. Wine production has advanced conside rably in the past decades with countries like China that conventionally did not produce wine. Specifically, wine involves a vast value-added constituent as a capital-intensive and labor-intensive trade, which also creates tourism with its financial multiplier effect around the nation (McIntyre 38). The organizations, workers, and travel expenses signify why wine sales are involved in total commercial influence. In conclusion, wine innovation and evolvement have had a remarkable past when it was developed bracing its way to modernism. Wine creation over the long periods of time has seen a substantial impact on humanity in every aspect. Wine has created a culture where it is used to imply certain factors like gratitude in the form of gifts. Despite wine having some negative effects, the dietary value it retains nonetheless is crucial to overall well-being. Wine has also affected society enormously. As seen in this paper, wine has been used as a business commodity and a celebration tool. The current prevailing religious significance of wine dates to the times when it was first discovered. Economically, wine has facilitated growth with price changes becoming predictable and apparent than other commodities.

error correction codes essays

error correction codes essays 1) What are the questions you need to ask and the concerns you need to address before you perform a memory upgrade on a specific machine? Where can you get the infomation you need? a) To upgrade menory on a specific system board is to consult the manual of the system board that is supplied by the maker of the system board. The supplied manual will supply all needed infomation required to do the task of upgrading. In the supplied manual will be the needed infomation on 1) type of memory used. 2) the speed of memory required. 3) the total amount of memory the system board can support. 4) jumper pin settings required so the system board can reconize the new added memory or settings can be change by system BIOS or supplied software. 5) the location on the system board in which were to install the memory. 2) See attached print out of web based search data base and print out of system board supplier web base manual on line. 2) Fill in the table below. Be shure to use correct units in your answer. Microprocesser Number of Maximum Amount of Address Lines Memory Address 8088 20 1 meg 80286 24 16 meg 80386DX 32 4096 meg 80486DX 32 4096 meg Penitum 32 4096 meg Pentium II,III 36 65536 meg The Galaxy 64 17.5 TB 4) Explain how parity and ECC error checking works. Answeres supplied by Webopedia web page look up search eng ...

The Importance of Marketing in the Twenty-First Century Essay

The Importance of Marketing in the Twenty-First Century - Essay Example This will be explained better with the help of material available in text books such as the one written by Baines, Fill and Page (2008) and a few concepts from other books such as Principles of Marketing by Philip Kotler and Gary Armstrong. Pepsi is a carbonated drink that was developed in the United States of America as Brad’s drink in 1898 and in its existence, of more than a century; it changed its name twice. First change resulted in Pepsi Cola and then finally Pepsi. The trademark received recognition in 1902. There have been various Pepsi variants produced over the years, as will be discussed shortly. Many changes in the marketing strategy have taken place from the very beginning including in the change of its logo design. Currently, Pepsi has a share of 43.9% in the beverage industry in the USA. As explained by Philip Kotler, in his book Marketing Principles, marketing environment is a set of conditions that either directly or indirectly affect the performance of a brand or a product. These include various factors such as government regulation, culture, social factors and many others. Pepsi is a global product that is marketed throughout the world. Though it does not change its product but does alter other marketing strategies. It is important to discuss two factors here. Firstly, due to increased consumer protection and awareness amongst individuals, Pepsi had to become more conscious about its product’s ingredients and other related quality measures with respect to that. Another aspect of the environment is the competition that they face. The fiercest competition comes from the side of Coca Cola. Although, it is more expensive but still it is the second largest carbonated beverage with a market share of nearly 30.9% in USA. Other competition comes from Nestle fresh juices and now also Red Bull. However, they are not that close behind. Some people have a perception that established brands such as Pepsi do

Can parents who abuse drugs and alcohol be good enough parents Essay

Can parents who abuse drugs and alcohol be good enough parents - Essay Example In 2006, a study revealed that about 5% of all adults in the UK are alcohol-dependent with one out of 24 parents drinking heavily; these figures put about one million children living with alcoholic parents (In the news, 2006). The Institute of Alcohol Studies (2009) also revealed in their latest statistics that 22.1% of children in the UK are living with alcoholic parents; and about 8% of children in the UK are living with parents who are drug abusers. Moreover, 3.6% of children live with parents who are both alcohol and drug abusers (Institute of Alcohol Studies, 2009). In other words, these children are put at risk of being exposed to neglectful and abusive parents. Alcohol abuse and substance abuse potentially affect entire families and these are also habits which, if not stopped, are often passed on from generation to generation (In the News, 2006). With the above considerations, this paper shall now answer the question: can parents who abuse drugs and alcohol be good enough pare nts? This discussion shall use relevant literature, theoretical frameworks and research findings in order to come up with a thorough and critical understanding of the subject matter. Various studies and researches shall be evaluated in relation to this subject matter, analysing them for validity and credibility. Drugs and alcohol have different effects on different people. Shaw points out succinctly that â€Å"the good and bad effects of alcohol lie in complex psychological and sociological continua...Concepts of use and abuse have therefore been open to equally wide interpretations† (Shaw, 1978, p. 41). The effects of drugs and alcohol largely depend on a person’s physiology and sociology. Indeed, the adage, â€Å"being able to handle one’s drink† is appropriate in determining the effect of alcohol on a person. Some people may be able to handle their drink well, and others, not at all. Nevertheless,