Thursday, December 26, 2019

Hunting for Witches in the Family Tree

Whether your ancestor was actually a practicing witch, or someone accused of or involved with witchcraft or witch hunting, it can add a touch of interest to your family history. Of course, were not talking about the witches we think of today - the black pointy hat, the warty nose, and the ragged broomstick. Most women, and men, who were accused of witchcraft, were feared for their nonconformist ways more than anything else. It can still be fun to claim a witch in the family tree. Witchcraft in Europe Colonial America Talk of witches often brings the famous Salem Witch Trials to mind, but punishment for practicing witchcraft was not unique to colonial Massachusetts. A strong fear of witchcraft was prevalent in 15th century Europe where strict laws against witchcraft were put into effect. It is estimated that around 1,000 people were hanged as witches in England over a 200-year period. The last documented case of an individual found guilty of the crime of witchcraft was Jane Wenham, charged with â€Å"conversing familiarly with the Devil in the shape of a cat  in 1712. She was reprieved. The largest group of convicted witches in England were nine Lancashire witches sent to the gallows in 1612, and nineteen witches hanged at Chelmsford in 1645. Between 1610 and 1840, it is estimated that over 26,000 accused witches were burned at the stake in Germany. Between three and five thousand witches were executed in 16th and 17th century Scotland. The anti-witchcraft sentiment that had been growing in England and Europe undoubtedly had an impact on the Puritans in America, ultimately leading to the witch craze and subsequent Salem Witch Trials Resources for Researching the Salem Witch Trials Salem Witch Trials - Documentary Archive Transcription ProjectThe Salem Witchcraft Papers from the University of Virginias Electronic Text Institute provide a wealth of primary source documents, including a verbatim transcript of the legal documents generated during the arrests, trials, and deaths of the accused Salem witches in 1692. The site also includes site lists of jurors, Puritan ministers, judges, defenders and others involved in the Salem Witch Trials, plus historical maps.The Associated Daughters of Early American WitchesA membership society geared toward preserving the names of those accused of witchery in Colonial America prior to 1699 and to locate living female descendants of those witches. Contains a comprehensive list of accused witches.Genealogy of Witch Trial Ancestors FamiliesGenealogy reports for six of the individuals involved in the infamous Salem Witch Trials, including accused witches and officials involved in the trials. Researching Witch Trials the Witch Craze in Europe The Witch Hunts (1400-1800)Maintained by Professor Brian Pavlac at Kings College in Wilkes Barre, PA, this site examines the European witch craze through timelines and discussion of common theories, errors, and myths behind the Witch Hunts. You can also suffer through witch hunting first hand in an interesting simulation of a 1628 witch hunt.​Survey of Scottish Witchcraft 1563 - 1736An interactive database contains all individuals known to have been accused of witchcraft in early modern Scotland - nearly 4,000 in total. Supporting material provides background information on the database and an introduction to Scottish witchcraft. References Gibbons, Jenny. Recent Developments in the Study of the Great European Witch Hunt. Pomegranate, Vol. 5, 1998.History of the witch hunt (Geschichte der Hexenverfolgung). Maintained by the Server Frà ¼he Neuzeit (University of Mà ¼nchen) in cooperation with the Arbeitskreis fà ¼r Interdisziplinà ¤re Hexenforschung (research group for interdisciplinary witchcraft research). Mainly in German.Zguta, Russell. Witchcraft Trials in Seventeenth-Century Russia The American Historical Review, Vol. 82, No. 5, Dec. 1977, pp. 1187-1207.

Wednesday, December 18, 2019

The Rate Of Return On Education Human Capital Theory And...

Introduction The aims of this section are to outline the main theoretical approaches that underpin the rates of return on education – human capital theory and signalling models, together with reviewing the empirical literature on the topic based on such theory and the estimation issues encountered in section one. The section starts by introducing the underlying theory explaining the typical modelling attempts that take place at both the macro and microeconomic levels. Background Causal effects of education have long been a popular research topic for both labour economists and governments to estimate the effects on earnings and years of schooling. As a result, vast literature has been covered from as early as the 1990’s to present, each one proving in some way that the results from previous papers are negatively affected by some factor, and then aim to correct for this by using a variety of different techniques. This kind of debate provides a fascinating setting for research into the returns to education in the UK. Investment in the knowledge and skills of individuals takes places in three periods; early childhood, teenage years and as an adult in the labour market. During childhood, gaining human capital is predominantly determined by the decisions of others, in particular parents, our cultural environment and early schooling experiences which help to form basic language and mathematical skills and stem our attitudes towards learning from there onwards. As teenagers, weShow MoreRelatedHuman Capital Theory Vs. Theory Essay1500 Words   |  6 PagesEconomists have debated over Human Capital Theory versus Signaling Theory for years. Whilst differences have been analysed, limitations in these attempts have continued this long running debate. However, it is clear that as an individual receives higher education, their ability to attain higher earnings increases. The question now that must be acknowledged, is why individuals with a higher education attain higher earnings? Human Capital Theory suggests that the economic value of individuals withinRead MoreResearch And Professional Practice : Annotated Bibliography1948 Words   |  8 Pagesincidence of over-education†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦...4 4. Why does over-education happen?.................................................................5 5. What is the impact of over-education on the job satisfaction of those graduates who are in that position?.....................................................................6 6. Discuss to what extent over-education is a short-term phenomenon†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦8 7. What are the implications of over-education for UniversitiesRead MoreCorporate Finance69408 Words   |  278 Pagesis for a Level 3 course (also known as a ‘300 course’) offered as part of the University of London International Programmes in Economics, Management, Finance and the Social Sciences. This is equivalent to Level 6 within the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications in England, Wales and Northern Ireland (FHEQ). For more information about the University of London International Programmes undergraduate study in Economics, Management, Finance and the Social Sciences, see: www.londoninternationalRead MoreHuman Resource Management and Balanced Score Card5186 Words   |  21 PagesScorecard in Human Recourse Development. Research objective: to find out the relationship between Balanced Score Card in relation with Human Resource development. Research Questions: What are the areas of HRD in which BSC can be implemented? What is the importance of performance measurement systems for Sustainable HRD? What are the problems associated with the successful implementation of BSC? Hypotisis: Implemetation of Balanced Scorecard(BSC) has a major contiribution towards Human ResourseRead MorePrinciples of Microeconomics Fifth Canadian Edition20085 Words   |  81 PagesChapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Ten Principles of Economics Thinking Like an Economist Interdependence and the Gains from Trade The study of economics is guided by a few big ideas. Economists view the world as both scientists and policymakers. The theory of comparative advantage explains how people benefit from economic interdependence. PART TWO: SUPPLY AND DEMAND I: HOW MARKETS WORK Chapter 4 The Market Forces of Supply and Demand Elasticity and Its Application Supply, Demand, and GovernmentRead MoreProject on Risk Management46558 Words   |  187 Pagesmarket variables such as Interest Rate, Foreign Exchange Rate, Equity Price, and the Liquidity risk as banks fund long term assets (loans) with short term liabilities (deposits) thereby exposing themselves to the funding, time and call risks. 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Activities also provide the basic tools for examining the competitive advantages or disadvantages of diversificationRead MoreContemporary Issues in Management Accounting211377 Words   |  846 PagesManagement Accounting Edited by ALNOOR BHIMANI 1 Great Clarendon Street, Oxford ox2 6dp Oxford University Press is a department of the University of Oxford. It furthers the University’s objective of excellence in research, scholarship, and education by publishing worldwide in Oxford New York Auckland Cape Town Dar es Salaam Hong Kong Karachi Kuala Lumpur Madrid Melbourne Mexico City Nairobi New Delhi Shanghai Taipei Toronto With oYces in Argentina Austria Brazil Chile Czech Republic France GreeceRead MoreInstitution as the Fundamental Cause of Long Tern Growth39832 Words   |  160 Pagesthan others? Traditional neoclassical growth models, following Solow (1956), Cass (1965) and Koopmans (1965), explain diï ¬â‚¬erences in income per capita in terms of diï ¬â‚¬erent paths of factor accumulation. In these models, cross-country diï ¬â‚¬erences in factor accumulation are due either to diï ¬â‚¬erences in saving rates (Solow), preferences (Cass-Koopmans), or other exogenous parameters, such as total factor productivity growt h. More recent incarnations of growth theory, following Romer (1986) and Lucas (1988)Read MoreInnovation and Business Performance: a Literature Review16983 Words   |  68 Pagesinnovate? 2.2 Innovation and competitiveness 2.3 Barriers to innovation 2.4 Summary 3 INNOVATION MANAGEMENT 3.1 What is innovation? 3.1.1 Diffusion of innovation 3.2 Models of innovation 3.2.1 First generation: technology-push 3.2.2 Second generation: market-pull 3.2.3 Third generation: coupling model 3.2.4 Fourth generation: integrated model 3.2.5 Fifth generation: systems integration and networking 3.3 Levels of analysis 3.3.1 Firm-level 3.3.2 Regional-level 3.3.3 National-level 3.4 The constructs ‘innovativeness’

Tuesday, December 10, 2019

Secret Essay Example For Students

Secret Essay SecretsIt is a nature of people to share their feelings and secrets with their so-called friends. Secrets are mostly situation that involves this one person who has to deal with the issues of his or her privacy when telling the secret and at the same time does not want third party to know. However, it is better to the listener than the secret teller. For instance, if a person has an important decision to make and if he/she does not want anybody to else to know the situation, but at the same token needs suggestion or advice from people who he/she can trust, it does not matter how hard he/she thinks, he/she might not be able to come up with a good decision. The reason being is that he/she is too involved in the situation hence prevent him/her from thinking properly. At this point, it is better to ask for second opinion especially from a friend or someone who can be trusted. I believe that secrets should be kept between you and your friend because that is the foundation of a relationshi p and it helps you release the stress thats building inside. Every individual has at one time or another shares some kind of secret to his or her friend. This is where the foundation of a true friendship begins. Good friends are hard to find; therefore, if you happen to have a good friend you would want to share things with that friend and expect that friend to keep your secret for you. By doing so implies that you consider him/her as one of your own people such as your father/mother or husband/wife. Also, you are insinuating to your friend that you trust him/her enough to share your most intimate thoughts and feelings. Thus in return that friend should respect you enough to keep your secret for you until you are ready to announce it to the world. Another example is that when you tell your friend your secret, you expect that friend to help you solve your problem. Or at least give you some suggestions in finding a solution to your problem. A true friend would not mind helping you because he/she knows that you would do the same for him/her. This friend not only would feel good about helping you but also feels fortunate that you would go to him/her for help. Just the thought of helping you release all those tension is enough to cheer your friend. Nonetheless, the reason you would want to tell someone your secret is because it is eating you up inside and the only way to release it is to tell someone something. After telling the whole secret or even just a little part of it does a lot of good. That is why many people tell their friends things. Many people tell secrets for different reason. It is a part of human nature for one friend to tell another the secret and expect that friend to keep the secret for you. A strong friendship should have some kind of foundation and trust. If a friendship lacks these two fundamental elements, then that relationship would not last. Friends should be able to trust one another and share whatever on ones mind. Also, friends tell another friend their secrets because it helps them liberate the pressure and anxiety thats building inside. For these reasons, I truly believe that a true friend will keep your secrets for you.

Monday, December 2, 2019

Reflective Journal free essay sample

What I have pro-actively tried to do is participate in the discussions regarding student groups and what other peers do to motivate, engage and ensure differentiation within their sessions. Avis et al in â€Å"Teaching in Lifelong Learning† was a useful book which has provided me with practical teaching guidance on classroom sessions and what I can do to improve my delivery to students. I have drawn on this resource and it has assisted me with discussing with my peers in the PGCE sessions about what is beneficial to learners and what can be detrimental within a classroom environment. By engaging in these types of debates within PGCE it has given me additional confidence to contribute when in the Higher Education arena with colleagues. In year 1, due to my lack of experience I felt reticent to share comments about how I felt I could inspire learners and contribute to their enthusiasm. In contrast this year I have felt a more active part of the team. We will write a custom essay sample on Reflective Journal or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page This has been further evidenced by me trying to insert new teaching assessments and techniques for example: the snowball event which has been referred to in PDP4. The observations which I undertook to assist with PDP2 have demonstrated further how a tutor should take risks with their delivery and be encouraged to try new approaches. When observing the HND class, although many of the techniques may have been considered basic, the students clearly enjoyed the interaction and the opportunity to be integrated in the session. Feedback from my second teaching observation this year, was I had not interpreted a model correctly to students. I subsequently sought advice from my tutor to ask to discuss my interpretation of the model and how this could be rectified with the students. This was a steep learning curve for myself, asking for help and support should not be seen as detrimental. Reviewing what happened, realistically I need to ensure I review all models and seek advice from colleagues if I am not sure how to approach them. I have taken on board Schon’s reflective model on how you learn from experience and your teaching can improve from ensuring you develop from these action points and improve your practice. One of the modules which I taught this academic year was a lecture as a guest speaker, followed by a seminar and the students were split into two seminar groups. I therefore had to co-teach the seminar group with a colleague. The same lecturer had taught the â€Å"People and Organisation† module previously. I found this situation quite difficult, as although I was preparing the material for both seminar groups the other lecturer did provide feedback, comments on how things could have been done differently. The feedback was not constructive on lesson techniques instead was more a personal opinion on what he would have included in sessions etc. I took this feedback on board and ensured I acted professionally in the meetings; however I did discuss this with my mentor to get feedback on whether I handled it correctly and what way I could approach it in the future. Initially, I began to doubt if I had the confidence and ability to teach the module and evaluated this situation after the first four sessions. I then applied Egan’s model of Explore, Understand and Act and began to discuss with the lecturer what would he do differently, understand what his views were and then act on that. I moved the situation by evaluating my performance, discussing it with a peer and then identifying what is best for the students. In addition, my mentor and I discussed the issue and I explained I was keen to learn from any errors I had made, however I did review the situation that both the colleague and I should be working together to ensure a consistent delivery package and should not be competing as â€Å"us and them†. Roffey-Barentsen amp; Malthouse (2009) (p7) in their model helped me to evaluate and take the necessary relevant action of â€Å"reading about what I was going to deliver† â€Å"planning† for the seminar, â€Å"doing it†, taking time to â€Å"reflect† on it and then the cycle can be undertaken again. By using an academic model it has helped me to understand the process of reflection and how I can move a situation forward in an academic situation. Although I recognise the support of peers and the importance of sharing best practice as a professional I do understand how I need to undertake my own personal development to ensure I maintain my standards. By doing this, it will encourage colleagues to seek support from myself and guidance when requiring information about my subject specialist area. Currently within my department I am the only colleague who is CIPD qualified. I take this qualification seriously and want to ensure my colleagues can draw upon my professional experience to assist them in the workplace. Within the limitations of teaching reduced hours I do aim to try to provide additional support to my colleagues by providing journal articles or other relevant Employment Law information. In addition on three occasions this year I have facilitated on the BA programme as a guest speaker. Based on this delivery, in preparation for next year I have been asked to facilitate on the course next year. A further contribution which I have made to the Higher Education department was a new colleague joined the team. As he was allocated a module which I had previously facilitated on, I provided my entire lesson plans to him, DVD resources etc for the whole module. In addition, we discussed his facilitation during 1:1’s and I explained I recognised he would want to change, amend and update how the resources were his to utilise as he felt appropriate. In summary I feel it is important to work as a co-operative team member to ensure best practice is shared and to provide support and guidance to colleagues. As Belbin’s teamwork theory illustrates the team will include a variety of different personalities and it is essential an effective work practice is undertaken. By working as a team this will benefit the students which should be the priority for all of the teaching staff.

Wednesday, November 27, 2019

Free Essays on Analysis Of “A Good Man Is Hard To Find“

Analysis of â€Å"A Good Man is Hard to Find† The short story by Flannery O’Connor, â€Å"A Good Man is Hard to Find†, is about a family that takes a vacation to Florida and somehow along the way manages to get murdered by a man who calls himself â€Å"The Misfit†, and two of his friends. Flannery O’Connor’s story has many important elements, but what makes this story special is the combined use of character development and irony. The short story, â€Å"A Good Man is Hard to Find† by Flannery O’Connor was written in 1955 during a time when most people in small communities were very religious and followed the Christian faith very strictly. In the story, the grandmother and The Misfit briefly discuss religion, particularly about Jesus and the miracle of resurrection from the dead. O’Connor’s use of this religious belief appeals to the audience of the 1950’s in a way that puzzles the reader and creates a mysterious wonder of uncertainty for the antagonist of the story. With this character development, the grandmother makes a certain ironic mistake that causes The Misfit to think about the terrible things he has done. In the story The Misfit said, â€Å"Jesus was the only One that ever raised the dead,† The Misfit continued, â€Å"and He shouldn’t have done it. He thown everything off balance. If He did what He said, then its nothing for you to do but thow away everything and follow Him, and if He didn’t, then its nothing for you to do but enjoy the few minutes you got left the Wagers 2 best way you can- by killing somebody or burning down his house or doing some other meanness to him. The grandmother made the terrible mistake and said, â€Å"Maybe He didn’t raise the dead.† She sparks a fire of resentment and anger The Misfit has for all the bad things he has done. When he said, â€Å"I wasn’t there so I can’t say He didn’t.† The Misfit shows an emotional dought that maybe everything he ... Free Essays on Analysis Of â€Å"A Good Man Is Hard To Findâ€Å" Free Essays on Analysis Of â€Å"A Good Man Is Hard To Findâ€Å" Analysis of â€Å"A Good Man is Hard to Find† The short story by Flannery O’Connor, â€Å"A Good Man is Hard to Find†, is about a family that takes a vacation to Florida and somehow along the way manages to get murdered by a man who calls himself â€Å"The Misfit†, and two of his friends. Flannery O’Connor’s story has many important elements, but what makes this story special is the combined use of character development and irony. The short story, â€Å"A Good Man is Hard to Find† by Flannery O’Connor was written in 1955 during a time when most people in small communities were very religious and followed the Christian faith very strictly. In the story, the grandmother and The Misfit briefly discuss religion, particularly about Jesus and the miracle of resurrection from the dead. O’Connor’s use of this religious belief appeals to the audience of the 1950’s in a way that puzzles the reader and creates a mysterious wonder of uncertainty for the antagonist of the story. With this character development, the grandmother makes a certain ironic mistake that causes The Misfit to think about the terrible things he has done. In the story The Misfit said, â€Å"Jesus was the only One that ever raised the dead,† The Misfit continued, â€Å"and He shouldn’t have done it. He thown everything off balance. If He did what He said, then its nothing for you to do but thow away everything and follow Him, and if He didn’t, then its nothing for you to do but enjoy the few minutes you got left the Wagers 2 best way you can- by killing somebody or burning down his house or doing some other meanness to him. The grandmother made the terrible mistake and said, â€Å"Maybe He didn’t raise the dead.† She sparks a fire of resentment and anger The Misfit has for all the bad things he has done. When he said, â€Å"I wasn’t there so I can’t say He didn’t.† The Misfit shows an emotional dought that maybe everything he ...

Saturday, November 23, 2019

Superior Donuts by Tracy Letts

Superior Donuts by Tracy Letts Warning: After watching this play, you may be compelled to drive to the nearest donut shop, thereupon eating your fill of bear-claws, maple bars, and old fashioned glazed. At least, that was the effect the play had on me. Theres quite a bit of donut-talk, and were easily persuaded, especially when it comes to dessert. However, Superior Donuts, a 2009 comedy written by Tracy Letts, offers a bit more than sweet talk. About the Playwright Tracy Letts, son of author Billie Letts, is most famous for his Pulitzer Prize-winning play, August: Osage County. He has also written Bug and Man from Nebraska. The aforementioned plays blend dark comedy with an even darker exploration of the human condition. Superior Donuts, in contrast, is lighter fare. Although the play does delve into issues of race and politics, many critics consider Donuts closer to a TV sitcom rather than a brilliant piece of theater. Sitcom comparisons aside, the play features lively dialogue and a final act that is ultimately uplifting, albeit a bit predictable at times. The Basic Plot Set in modern-day Chicago, Superior Donuts depicts the unlikely friendship between a down-and-out donut shop owner and his enthusiastic employee, who also happens to be an aspiring author with a serious gambling problem. Franco, the young writer, wants to update the old shop with healthy choices, music, and friendlier service. However, Arthur, the shop owner, wants to remain set in his ways. The Protagonist The main character is Arthur Przybyszewski. (No, we didnt just mash my fingers on the keyboard; that is how his last name is spelled.) His parents immigrated to the U.S. from Poland. They opened the donut shop which eventually Arthur took over. Making and selling donuts has been his lifelong career. Yet, even though he is proud of the food he makes, he has lost his optimism for running the day-to-day business. Sometimes, when he doesnt feel like working, the shop stays closed. Other times, Arthur doesnt order enough supplies; when he has no coffee the local police, he relies on the Starbucks across the street. Throughout the play, Arthur delivers reflective soliloquies in between the regular scenes. These monologs reveal several events from his past that continue to haunt his present. During the Vietnam War, he moved to Canada to avoid the draft. In his middle-age years, Arthur lost contact with his young daughter after he and his wife divorced. Also, at the beginning of the play, we learn that Arthurs ex-wife recently died. Even though they had been apart, he is deeply affected by her death, thus adding to his lethargic nature. The Supporting Character Every crotchety curmudgeon needs a pollyanna to balance things out. Franco Wicks is the young man who enters the donut shop and ultimately brightens Arthurs perspective. In the original cast, Arthur is portrayed by Michael McLean, and the actor poignantly wears a T-shirt with a yin-yang symbol. Franco is the yin to Arthurs yang. Franco walks in seeking a job, and before the interview is over (although the young man does most of the talking, so its not a typical interview) Franco has not only landed the job, he has suggested a variety of ideas that could improve the store. He also wants to move up from the register and learn how to make the donuts. Eventually, we learn that Franco is enthusiastic not simply because he is an ambitious up-and-coming businessman, but because he has huge gambling debts; if he doesnt pay them off, his bookie will make sure that he gets hurt and loses a few fingers. "America Will Be" Arthur resists and occasionally resents Francos improvement suggestions. However, the audience gradually learns that Arthur is a pretty open-minded, educated guy. When Franco wagers that Arthur would not be able to name ten African American poets, Arthur starts off slowly, naming popular choices like Langston Hughes and Maya Angelou, but then he finishes strong, rattling off the names and impressing his young employee. When Franco confides in Arthur, revealing that he has been working on a novel, a turning point is reached. Arthur is genuinely curious about Francos book; once he finishes reading the novel he takes a more vested interest in the young man. The book is titled America Will Be, and although the audience never learns much about the novels premise, the books themes profoundly impact Arthur. By the plays end, the protagonists sense of courage and justice have been reawakened, and he is willing to make great sacrifices to save Francos physical and artistic life.

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Explain the degree to which the personality and mental state of Essay

Explain the degree to which the personality and mental state of decision makers impose themselves onto the foreign policy of sta - Essay Example His advisors, including Dick Cheney, who was the Secretary of Defense, were concerned about the issue regarding the end of the Cold War, and they were well aware that the American people were questioning the necessity of a large military budget at that time, seeing as the Soviet Union was on the verge of complete collapse. On the other side was Saddam Hussein he felt that Kuwait was guilty of a multitude of transgressions, which included the fact that Kuwait had depressed oil prices by selling cheaply; that Kuwait was demanding that Iraq pay a debt, even though Hussein felt that the debt should?e been forgiven, because Hussein had defended Kuwait against aggression earlier; and that Kuwait was selling oil that Hussein thought was on the Iraq side of the border. When Hussein made noises towards Kuwait to try to engage them in negotiations over these issues, Kuwait ignored him, which made Hussein all the more angry. Combined with the fact that Hussein was feeling more and more powerles s for a variety of reason, not the least of which was the fact that he couldn? rely on the Soviet Union to help him out anymore, and the situation became a virtual powder keg. Hussein invaded Kuwait, and the United States intervened and made war on Hussein, and this is what caused the Persian Gulf War. This essay will examine the decision-making process of the key players in this conflict. Definition of Foreign Policy The grounds for examining the Persian Gulf War is in accordance with the theories set forth by Hudson (2006).1 She explains that international relations has a ground for its field of study, and that is that what occurs between nations and across nations is grounded in the decision-makers acting singly or in groups.2 That means that the individuals who are a part of the major decisions have a certain way that they perceive and look at the world, and this world view is what impacts their decisions. They are shaped by the world around them, and this is the basis of concer n for Hudson's analysis. She states that the analysis may be multifactorial, which is taking into account different levels of decision-making, and there also may be an agent-oriented theory that grounds the decision-making process. This is assuming that human beings are the true agent, and that international politics and change comes from the world view of these agents.3 This is the theory upon which this paper is based. Bush and his Advisors Reasons for Going to War   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Liberman (2007)4 proposes that punitiveness was one motivation behind the decision-makers decision to go to war in the Persian Gulf. In his article, he examines the nature of moral punitiveness, then suggests that President George H.W. Bush might have been motivated by this when Saddam Hussein invaded Kuwait. Moral punitiveness has a basis in social psychology, explains Liberman (2007).5 Retribution is another word that Liberman (2007) uses interchangeably with moral punitive ness, and states that retribution is the basis for many moral decisions in public life.6   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Liberman (2007)7 states that one of the decisions that is shaped by moral punitiveness is the death penalty, and whether one believes that it should be legal or not. He states that a large percentage of people who believe in the death penalty believe in it because it is

Tuesday, November 19, 2019

British Airways Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

British Airways - Research Paper Example In short, rather than merely changing the organization, the changes that occurred to British Airways between the years 1981 – 1983 can be referred to as a change in culture. As such, the preceding analysis will analyze the means by which the culture of British airways prior to this re-emergence was fundamentally different from the new culture that developed between the years 1981 – 1983 and has definitively succeeded in defining and differentiating British Airways as a premier global airline. In seeking to define the culture that existed prior to the turnaround which will be discussed, it is necessary to understand that low levels of customer service, bad experiences, a self-perpetuating image of low quality and poor service, bloated payrolls, and ineffective governmental regulation/management were partly to blame for many of the cultural breakdowns which ultimately led to the loss of profitability which was experienced during the 1970s. As stated by Lord King, British Airways was faced with the position of losing 250,000,000 pounds over two years; in effect, the airline was hemorrhaging money (Miller, 1995). Ultimately, part of the degeneracy of the previous culture can be blamed upon the government control and bureaucratic oversight that was exhibited since the conclusion of the Second World War. As the case study defines, to unique entities came to oversee and direct British Airways after the war; these were the BEA and the BOAC. These operated in such a way to create a de facto state run airline that was not focused upon profitability or long-term sustainability. Moreover, the split board of oversight made decision making difficult if not impossible; leading to a situation in which two distinct leadership operations controlled the development of the airline. For instance, the BEA was set up shortly after the close of the Second World War to develop the infrastructure of the European air service route. As such, it had little interest in operati ons control with regards to the development of profitability and sustainment for an airline carrier. Likewise, the BOAC, as the author of the case study indicates, was more interested in flying the British flag and it was in developing business and satisfying consumers. This of course ultimately led to a situation in which not only was money being perennially lost but more row was poor and the overall productivity level never exceeded 59% during the 2 decades since the conclusion of the war (Leahey & Cotter, 1990). Yes, nearly all of these cultural issues began to fade into obscurity nearly as soon as Lord King came to be appointed chairman of British Airways. Coming from a background of business entrepreneurship and business development, King approached situation from a no-nonsense point of view. Firstly, and perhaps most importantly, King identified that a culture of development must necessarily be put into place in order for British Airways to experience any type of rebirth. As a function of this, King immediately froze wages, reduced staff by 20%, closed eight engineering bases, closed 16 routes that were deemed extraneous and ultimately a profitable, and stated that the worst was not yet behind the airline (Tushman & O’Reilly, 1996). At face value, each of these decisions may be

Sunday, November 17, 2019

The Outlook for the US Printing Businesses in 2007 Essay Example for Free

The Outlook for the US Printing Businesses in 2007 Essay The printing industry encompasses a wide range of products for commercial and retail use. Printing is involved in the production of magazines, newspapers and books, as well as brochures, maps, postcards, business forms, stamps, manuals, packaging and so on and so forth. It also includes various related pre- as well as post-press occupations such as lay-outing, graphic designing, binding and finishing. There are different methods of printing using plates or an image carrier. Among the most common of these are: lithography invented in 1798, the modern process makes use of a photosensitive emulsion placed onto smooth surfaces, either using a platesetter for computer-to-plate (CTP) technology or on flexible aluminum or plastic printing plates; it’s most commonly used for credit cards, packaging, CDs, books and newspapers. flexography – most commonly used for packaging, it makes use of a 3-dimensional negative impression of the image to be printed produced on polymer or rubber and rotated on the surface to be printed. It was originally used for printing on corrugated boards. The flexibility of the material enables the print to be impressed on uneven surfaces. gravure – used mainly for food packaging, wallpaper, furniture laminates, paneling and magazines, gravure printing uses depressed, as opposed to raised, surfaces, where the image areas are etched into copper cylinders. It produces high quality print but the costs involved in the necessary equipment are prohibitive compared to other methods used in high volume runs. screen printing – can be used to print on almost any material, using a screen prepared with a stencil, a squeegee and ink. It is highly versatile and simple to use. The best known application for this method of printing is for T-shirt printing, letterpress printing – the method involves the use of movable type where the ink is smeared on raised surfaces and then placed on a suitable material such as paper or cloth for transferring impressions. The invention of reusable, individual letters for use in this type of printing in the 1400s is credited to Johann Gutenberg; offset printing – modern techniques make use of film negatives where the image is transferred onto photoelectric plates, similar to the printing of photographs. It is the most commonly used method for high-volume printing. Non-impact or plateless printing includes electrostatic, electronic, toner-based and inkjet printing. With the advent of computers, there has been a further diversification of the industry; namely, traditional or manual printing and quick or digital printing. (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2005) Together   with the computer, the ready availability of the Internet has inspired fears that the printed word was in danger of being phased out as the most widely spread form of communication and information.   The impact on the growth and profitability of the printing industry was of significant concern, as the rising financial and environmental costs of paper printing made the move into a paperless society seem inevitable. In the US, especially after the recession of 1990-91, the most pessimistic forecasts had been made regarding the future of the printing industry in an increasingly digital world. A 2004 study of the findings and forecast of the US Department of Labor on the employment and compensation of workers leads to the conclusion that fewer workers working fewer hours will be required overall in the printing industry against a projected increase in all other industries, due mainly to the increased use of automation and digital prepress technology. However, there is a concurrent requirement for workers with knowledge in digital prepress and post-printing technologies. There also seems to be a perceived increase in companies specializing in commercial flexographic and digital printing. More companies will be employing fewer than 10 non-supervisory workers at higher or equal hourly compensation as compared to other industries. There also seems to be a trend towards increased employment of workers with knowledge or education in operation of computer-related equipment. (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2005) There are varied opinions among businesspeople in the industry. Some maintain that the level of capital investment needed for quality, high-volume printing precludes all but a few to make a reasonable profit. (Paul, 1998) Others maintain that while a small profit margin may be discouraging, the printing industry is alive and booming, in part because of growing expenditure in advertising and promotions, as well as the proliferation of direct selling companies. (Dolbeck, 2005) Most agree that the advent of digital technology has helped lower costs and increase efficiency, thus improving profit margin. Some studies have shown that an increasing number of people are tuning into the Internet rather than newspapers or magazines. However, it is projected that it will be at least 10 years before those who get their news from the internet will outnumber those who read the newspaper. That is, if those who had earlier converted revert back to printed media. It is maintained that despite the many innovations in digital technology, it is not as portable as printed material, and the cost of attaining some portability is still beyond many consumers. Moreover, many companies maintain that the retention and pass-on potential of the printed brochure or pamphlet has a greater marketing impact than a website. For educational and scholarly products, the process of transferring the information from print to screen is a long and laborious process, and while audio books and CD-ROMs are enjoying growing popularity in many libraries, it is still a long way from replacing the books as a means of providing in-depth information and education. (Heger, 1994) According to C. Barnes and Co.’s report â€Å"2005 Market in Print,† a survey of printing companies revealed that the majority of companies surveyed with non-printing operations (NPO) were small companies. These NPOs included graphic design, fulfillment and mailing. The chief complaints from printing business owners include stiff competition, the cost of technology that have shorter depreciation, shortage of skilled workers and price increase of consumables. The transition from manual to partly digital technology has caught some companies flat-footed, jumping on the bandwagon too late or without enough knowledge and research to buy the right equipment at the right time. The segment of the industry that is particularly enjoying popularity is digital or quick printing.   Small print shops that specialize in desktop value-added services abound because of the ease of acquiring the necessary equipment and consumables and the relatively low capital requirements.   These services include calling cards, invitations, letterheads for small businesses, leaflets, flyers and marketing materials such as promotional mugs and magnets. Digital cameras and mobile phones with high resolution cameras have also resulted in a rising demand for digital photo printing. Also an interesting development in the industry is large format printing, in which digital images are transferred directly from a digital image to tarpaulin or paper, much like a large inkjet printer.   This is especially handy for low-volume printing requirements such as a banner a garage sale or posters for a school recital. Digital print shops have a unique relationship with its customers. All preprinting requirements may be provided by the client directly, usually already in a digital file.   The print shop ascertains that form and layout of the file is up to standards for proper printing and provides the medium for the actual process.   Or the client may come in bare-handed and state the requirements. The print shop then provides the services required: scan, lay-out, proof, color correct, edit then print. Many a party or small social event, small business and school have taken advantage of this while-you-wait service in fulfilling their collateral needs at comparatively low cost considering the volume involved. Paper companies make the process even easier by producing products especially designed for toner-based or inkjet printers ranging from pre-formatted labels in different configurations to scented board paper for calling cards, all available in retail at neighborhood bookstores at reasonable prices. The trend for digital printing is towards faster, cheaper and higher quality of printed product. However, high volume requirements cannot be fulfilled by even the best equipped digital print shop simply because the cost escalates per piece produced, unlike traditional printing methods, where fixed costs such as plates and film enable the producer to run prints at lower cost when volume goes up. These same fixed costs, however, cannot provide the service at competitive prices if the volume is low. The relationship of the plated and digital print businesses is largely symbiotic.   Plated printers are the main source of income of paper companies that also produce the specialty paper needed by digital printers, but only as sub-business. These paper companies deal in volume as well, and will not survive on the sales from digital shops alone. Digital printers at the neighborhood level provides potential clients an accessible point in which they can bring their initial printing requirements to be then referred to a plated printer after graphic design, scanning and/or lay outing for volume printing. There is very little actual overlap for the two sub-industries, providing services for different needs of the same customer. A new player in the field that promotes the marriage of digital and traditional printing processes is print-on-demand (POD) publishers. More of a publishing rather than printing method, it nonetheless uses digital imagery and letterpress printing to produce books and posters in small runs. (Wikipedia) Would-be authors are able to have their work published, albeit they pay for it themselves. The method is also often used for limited circulation publications, as a stopgap for materials with high demand that are in the process of being re-run and for books in print with only a trickle of demand which makes a full re-run impractical. What is the forecast for the printing industry in the US?   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Overall, the prospects of the printing industry for 2007 are good. Perhaps it is not as rosy as some projections from 1999, when printers enjoyed a boom, but neither is it as black as it is being painted by some trend watchers. The average projections for the industry overall is 5. The need of those in the printing industry to reinvent itself in order to overcome aggressive competition, smaller markets, and increasing cost of materials, especially paper. The changes in the market are considered by 20% of a representative slice of print and prepress firms as a call to arms in the war of doing business in a changing world. (Youngblood Communications, 2005)   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In the second quarter of 2006, Xerox Corporation spearheaded a free seminar series entitled â€Å"Innovate ’06.† It is a worldwide series with concurrent offerings within the United States that focused primarily on educating those in the printing business, or who are thinking of getting into it, on their options regarding industry trends, technological advances and how to boost profit and efficiency in the workflow of an increasingly digital industry. (Presswire, 2006)   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   While there is some pessimism among some of those in the industry regarding the viability of the printing business of turning over a reasonable profit, the prognosis of manufacturers of the equipment and consumables is positive. In a survey of U.S. companies reports show and increase of expenditure from 2004 of 23% on new plants and equipment. The spending spree is attributed to appreciable profit-earning in 2004, enabling companies to make improvements and begin projects that have been put off during the leaner years. (Min, etal, 2005)   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   TrendWatch Graphic Arts, in its report entitled â€Å"Printing Forecast 2005: The TrendWatch Graphic Arts Perspectives on the Challenges and Opportunities for Printing in the Next 12 Months and Beyond†, also reported that a survey of American and some Canadian commercial printers are hopeful about their companies’ futures. There was an increased sale of printing presses in 2004 and a projected 6% increase of sales of 6-color sheetfed offset presses over the following months. (Youngblood Communications, 2005)   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Advertising expenditures has also increased, according to TNS Media Intelligence, a strategic advertising and marketing information provider. In the 1st Quarter of 2006, total advertising expenditure rose by 5.2 percent against the same period of the previous year. However, impact of this expenditure did not quite favor newspapers and business to business (B2B) magazines. Of those in the publishing industry, only consumer magazines posted an increase in income. (TNS Media Intelligence, 2006)   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Such reports tend to focus on the large companies spending the big bucks in advertising. Growth in the industry is not as high as projected, mostly because of a not altogether unexpected shift to online media, with a worldwide growth of 40% expected, according to Carat. (Khan, 2006) But earnings from advertising and marketing expenditures by top companies are not the only opportunities for those in the printing industry today. There has been a healthy growth in the quick print industry that to print for the ordinary citizen with a family picture Christmas card to send to the folks back home. (Youngblood Communications, 2005)   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The grudging admission by most existing, large printing companies is that business is good, if not great. This could be because they are reluctant to encourage other players to get into the business and cut into an ever decreasing wedge of the market. Environmental issues are also a big consideration in the woes of these big companies, requiring expenditures on cleaner, more efficient machines.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   For those about to plunge into the pool, start small seems to be the way to go. The neighborhood print shop, the POD publisher, the offshoot value-added service provider does not require much capital expenditure. There is always someone wanting to print something, the important thing is to research the intended site of enterprise and provide whatever is needed.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The shift to digital has been widely accepted as a good thing, even by those who had watched its advent into the market askance. The growing dependence on the microchip driven hardware is felt across all industries, and most especially in the printing and publishing industry, spawning a greater demand for the technology. And software and hardware companies are quick to take full advantage of this trend. Almost every six months, the newest, fastest, cheapest, most efficient, most environment friendly, most accurate, most user-friendly and other â€Å"new, improved† models and programs are being touted.   For those wishing to get into the business in a big way, big ticket items are the ones that need to be most researched. True, the Internet and online media are the new toys, and everybody wants to have a go at it. Gone are the days that for research, you go to the trusty 20-volume Merit Student’s Encyclopedia, and for the latest Hollywood gossip you go over to your neighbor’s house and borrow the supermarket tabloid. The Internet is easier to use when searching for a school project, music to download, movies to preview or things to buy However, very few people enjoy reading a suspense thriller or a romance novel from a glowing screen hunched over a computer, and it is highly unlikely that some type of digital media would become affordable enough to be left in mailboxes in lieu of flyers, leaflets, pamphlets and brochures. Sharing photos and sending virtual greeting cards are also a good thing, but there is no replacement for actual photographs you can frame or actual greeting cards you can frame. In essence, one media does not necessarily compete with the other. They each have their advantages and disadvantages, and given most circumstances, print and digital complement each other. Some publications have even found that a good Web-based counterpart was a good way to get circulation going as well as a source of income via advertisements. Furthermore, since Web content can be updated instantaneously, the publication can keep its readers up-to-date with the latest news and trends in between issues. For those in the printing industry, the computer has been much like the electric bulb. It is faster, easier to use and produce better results. The ones who could not keep up with the technology have turned in their shingles and closed up shop. The smart ones got with the program and grew even better. The well-researched, carefully-planned production structure with prerequisite training and upgrades in equipment and workflow has generated significant earnings for the enlightened business owner.   Rather than ranting at the changes and trying to outlast the new technology, many companies began spending on upgrades or outright replacements of obsolete equipment that was keeping the productivity of the company at pre-digital levels. This willingness of printing companies to invest in new technologies sends a crystal clear signal that the industry is healthy and responsive to changes.   The outlook for 2007 for US printing industry is looking well. References Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, 2005 Printing Career Guide to Industries, 2006-07 Edition retrieved December 15, 2006 from at http://www.bls.gov/oco/cg/cgs050.htm Paul, P. 1998 Everything thats fit to print: printers struggle with changing technology and stiff competition New Mexicos printing industry Industry Overview New Mexico Business Journal retrieved Dec 15, 2006 from http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m5092/is_7_22/ai_54370066 Heger, K. Oct, 1994,  Print: a road kill on the information superhighway? impact of information superhighway on printing industry Communication World,    retrieved December 15, 2006 from http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m4422/is_n9_v11/ai_16358776 Dolbeck, A. 2005, Valuation of the Paper and Publishing IndustryWeekly Corporate Growth Report NVST retrieved December 15, 2006 from http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa3755/is_200502/ai_n12412452 Min, et al, June 2005, U.S. industry unlocks budget box Pulp Paper retrieved December 15, 2006   http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa3636/is_200506/ai_n14687790 Youngblood Communications Co., Ltd., Jan 2005 Printing Forecast 2005 Print Action retrieved December 15, 2006 from http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa4088/is_200501/ai_n9485742 Patrick, M. Nov 2000, The Web Effect on magazine publishing industry Folio: The Magazine for Magazine Management,   retrieved December 15, 2006 from http://www.findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m3065/is_14_29/ai_67718962 Wikipedia, Flexography retrieved December 15, 2006 from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flexography Khan, M. December 12, 2006 Online drives Carat’s revised ad spend forecast DM News retrieved December 15th, 2006 from http://www.dmnews.com/cms/dm-news/research-studies/39350.html TNS Media Intelligence 2006 TNS Media Intelligence Reports U.S. Advertising Expenditures Advanced 5.2 Percent in First Quarter 2006 retrieved December 15, 2006 from http://www.tns-mi.com/news/05312006.htm M2 PressWIRE, 2006 Print Industry Experts to Help Companies Worldwide Profit and Grow retrieved December 15, 2006 from http://www.imaginginfo.com/article/article.jsp?id=1575siteSection=33

Thursday, November 14, 2019

Hitler an the Holocaust :: Essays Papers

Hitler an the Holocaust Adolph Hitler was known as the dictator of Nazi Germany. As a youth, Hitler already showed signs that characterized his later life, such as the unableness to make ordinary human relationships, a hatred for non-Germany people such as the Jews, and the dream of living in a world of fantasy. So when Adolph Hitler came into power in 1933, he lived out these characteristics in a very publicized way. Once elected, Hitler went on to create an absolute dictatorship and had an ultimate goal of establishing a greater Germany that had ever existed before in history. In the establishment of this great Germany, Hitler was able to murder approximately six million Jews with his Nazi Germany during World War II.1 The Jews were believed to have an inheritance that threatened German and Christian values. This attempt made by the Germans to kill as many Jews as possible came to be know as the Holocaust. On January 30, 1933, the German president Hindenburg named Adolph Hitler the Chancellor, which was the most powerful position in the German government.2 At this time Hitler was already the leader of the strongest and most powerful party in Germany, the Nazi Party. The Nazis first called the German Workers’ Party, were a nationalist and extremely racist group that held the same views as Hitler.3 Hitler first started out as a member of the Party, then moved his way to the top. He soon changed the name of the German Workers’ Party to the National Socialist German Workers’ Party, otherwise known as the Nazis.4 The party all had basically the same views and ideas; they were all violent, racial, nationalists, and opposed liberal democracy. The party took the symbol of the swastika and the Heil greeting from other German racist groups, and the German salute.5 Hitler rose to become the highest power in the Nazi party and was ready to become the leader of Germ any. As soon as he was put in power, Hitler was out to end German democracy and instead make an absolute dictatorship. In March of 1933, the Enabling Act gave Hitler ultimate dictator power.6 As soon as this power was granted, Hitler began preparing for the war. In preparing for war, Hitler recreated a universal military service; he then went on to build a powerful air force.

Tuesday, November 12, 2019

Team Goals

Team goals are the specific and measurable performance outcomes to be accomplished. A team is a group of individuals working to achieve a common goal. Thus, team goals dictate the performance, effectiveness and success of the team. Goals should therefore be clear and all members should have a common shared vision of the goals. When team members understand the goals, team roles are also clarified so each member can focus on their task. Consequently members are provided with a sense of identity. Team goals therefore serve to motivate the team when members effectively perform their roles. Goals also must be measurable because without measurable goals, teams may lose direction and will not be able to gauge performance or determine their progress. Additionally, when team goals and individual goals are more congruent high performance is more likely to occur.Team NormsNorms are defined as â€Å"mutually agreed upon standards of behaviour† and should therefore be discussed at the earl y stages of team development. Norms are developed through various ways, they can be written or unwritten and can change or be redefined throughout the existence of the team. Team norms define the boundaries of acceptable behaviour; therefore, norms would enable members to identify any behaviour that is dysfunctional and reduce negative conflict. Thus, norms can allow the team to be functional. To conclude team norms are important because through regulating the members’ behaviour, they help to control and measure the performance of the team and through this, team performance and team success have a positive correlation with team norms.Self Directed Work TeamsSelf directed work teams are formal groups that complete an entire piece of work requiring several interdependent tasks and have substantial autonomy over the execution of these tasks. That is, members are empowered to make decisions needed to manage themselves on a daily basis. Members within these type of teams therefore rely on multiskilling.Cross Functional Work TeamA Cross-functional team is a group of people with different functional expertise working toward a common goal.

Sunday, November 10, 2019

Ethical Leadership – Analysis

Reader also used the â€Å"waiter rule† to explain that a lot can be said about a person's character by the way they treat the waiter, which is much like the golden rule, treat others as you wish to be treated. This piece of advice relates to the business world, because professionals should respect one another, tell the truth, and conduct themselves in an ethical manner. Furthermore, Reader discussed the leadership and ethical leadership. He described leadership as someone who inspires people to achieve a goal.He elaborated on this concept by stating that ethical leadership is when a person leads y Influencing their followers and use Input from the followers to shape goals and purposes. Moreover, an ethical leader should be consistent In both words and actions, lead by example, and can be referred to as a role model. These ethical leaders are extremely Important to employees. Reader shared some astounding statistics as to why employees need role models: 56% of employees person ally observed misconduct and out of those who observed it, 42% did not report it.This shows that the tone at the top is extremely important in firms. If the management is more likely to behave unethically, then this attitude trickles down and negatively effects the ethical values of everyone in the company. In addition, he discussed how peer commitment is important. For example, most times, an employee will look to see what colleagues are doing in order to make a decision. This information relates to me professionally because I will be starting my career as an auditor soon and the attitudes and ethical culture of the company and my colleagues will definitely affect how I perform my Job.Reader also discussed how a leader can promote and ethical culture. These ten pieces of advice would definitely help me in a professional setting because at one mint I will be leading a group of people on an audit engagement. The first piece of advice is to walk the walk, which means that the leader n eeds to lead by example. Next, he states that the leader should keep people in the loop. This means that the leader needs to involve the employees and inform them on various changes and adjustments happening in the organization.Reader suggests that the leader should also encourage thoughtful dissent and show the employees that he/she truly cares. Furthermore, Reader states that in order to promote and ethical culture, the leader would not sweep problems under the rug, but should deal with each problem In an ethical manner. In Dalton, the leader should celebrate the successes In the organization and be fair to all employees. Also, the leader should make ethics a priority.Often times In the professional world, leaders behave ethically but do not truly make ethics a priority. Although sometimes difficult, leaders need to make tough the leader should â€Å"get the right people eon the bus and keep them,† which means that the leader should find employees that share the same ethica l values and do whatever is possible to keep them on board. Overall, I think Reader provided some great examples and advice on ethics and ethical leadership.All of the examples and advice he discussed relate to a professional environment and especially auditing. Auditors do not have the best reputation because of unethical behaviors by professionals, like Arthur Andersen, in the past. Often times the auditing profession can really challenge and test an individual's ethical and moral compass. However, Reader's speech reminded me what I need do to make sure I maintain ethical relationships and become an ethical leader in my audit career.

Friday, November 8, 2019

Simplicity, Simplicity, Simplicity. essays

Simplicity, Simplicity, Simplicity. essays Simplicity is a concept that has been adopted by many philosophical thinkers throughout history. Its recognized as one of the most thought provoking and unique concepts ever grasped. Thoreau is a key example of simplicity; his concept was not only written but lived as well. Through his novel Walden, he exemplifies simplicity at its best and can be compared to many of the other philosophers of simplicity. Let us first be as simple and well as Nature ourselves, dispel the clouds which hang over our brows, and take up a little life into our pores. () Many could quote the many simple insights of Thoreau. But what does simplicity really mean to the famous writer? A simple and independent mind does not toil at the bidding of any prince. (39) So Thoreau advices that the simple mind isnt at the beckon call of any being above them, that the simple mind should be like the Shepard (60), the primitive man (25), and not like the ant, who lives meanly (62). Sounds simple enough doesnt it? So then, why doesnt the world comply? Yet so far are we from simplicity and independence... (43) Walden believes of the world. Nations search day in and day out for the perfect society. Yet through hundreds of years, man continues to chase after this dream. Still we live meanly, like ants; though the fable tells us that we were long ago changed into men; like pygmies we fight with cranes; it is error upon error, and clout upon clout, and our best virtue has for its occasion a superfluous and evitable wretchedness. (62) Could it be because man fails to give up the silliness of fighting, or the stupidity of error in all that he does? Or is it that he continues to headache with thousands of problems a day, including those of others (62)? Whichever, the ignorance of man fails to allow him to achieve enlightenment and perfection. Thoreau laughs at this thou...

Tuesday, November 5, 2019

How to Write a Perfect Construction Resume (Examples Included)

How to Write a Perfect Construction Resume (Examples Included) when you think â€Å"construction jobs,† you might not think â€Å"resume,† because it’s such a physical job with skills that can be shown rather than told. however, as with any job hunt, your resume is the key to getting in the doors)How to Write a Perfect Occupational Therapist ResumeHow to Write a Perfect Physician Assistant Resume (Examples Included)How to Write a Perfect Receptionist Resume (Examples Included)How to Create a Perfect Retail ResumeHow to Write a Perfect Sales Associate Resume (Examples Included)How to Write a Perfect Social Worker Resume (Examples Included)How to Write a Perfect Truck Driver Resume (With Examples)

Sunday, November 3, 2019

Importance of Intellectual Capital Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Importance of Intellectual Capital - Essay Example Intellectual capital produces wealth through information technology and also encourages business leaders to become critical analysts of economic trends specially those factors associated to finance, performance management, production, distribution, marketing and other related exchanges in trade flows, investment, and human resource management. It also hastens wise decision-makings on matters affected by political and market behaviours. These days, business enterprises rely on information capital as technologies have elaborately underscored the role of information, knowledge and experiences for economic activities. It’s in this context too that the world’s economy transitioned itself from simple dependency on science and technology to an economic system that considered the production of knowledge as primary factors for business management. Nowadays, intellectual capital is considered as the most valuable asset in this era of information. Business leaders would opt for hu man resources that have strong cognitive skills and the capacity to undertake market research and finance analysis. Moreover, the operation of a corporation require intensive and accurate reporting of all offices or departments to know results and which will form part in the planning for execution, and auditing – processes that are integral to effective corporate governance. Experts opined that investors and information users would certainly delve into the reasonableness of justification, for instance, in accounting information. The latter is needed for financial and operational decision-making which may cover issues on investments, credit, management stewardship, resource allocation and corporate responsibility. Thus, shareholders would demand documented accounting to determine growth, return of investments, risks, capital gain or profit, for stock options or for rewards. For monitoring purpose and management concern, quality accounting information is necessary to ascertain collation, litigation, or political costs, including concern for competitive leveraging. Such wide information is required in managing business to enforce regulatory measures to protect and control business interests. 2. Why investors and other information users search for intellectual capital information from other sources? Investors search for intellectual capital to ascertain that their investments will be managed well. This relates to business sector’s interest to be certain that the company they collaborate or partner with have the capacity to professionally manage assets, real estates, or securities -- which include bond and debt instruments. With financial stability and profits as goals, investors and information users will also be interested that the intellectual capital of the company can wield demanded performance that warrants better if not excellent corporate standing of a company. As such the company will also be evaluating to assess financial viability, to deter mine business leadership and to secure return of investments. Thus, for company seeking more capital investments, disclosure of financial status offers corporate reputation; inspire third party certification that will show its compliance or adherence to legal requirements. A corporation with business integrity could assert corporate control

Friday, November 1, 2019

Answer those questions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Answer those questions - Essay Example In addition to it, he identified the 4 moons of the Jupiter and proved to the world that, it is possible for a planet to have moons, which rotate around them. His major astronomical observation was that of ‘Venus’. Galileo developed formulas related to various functioning of the machines and also invented many machines. Galileo fight with â€Å"machines† is referred to that of the fight with the problem of objectivity of science. He laid out model for solving all types of motion (machine).He argued that, â€Å"the problems of floating bodies could be reduced to Archimedean principle†. Galileo faced conflicts with the Roman Catholic Church. It is usually portrayed as the conflict between the science and the religion, but it is not as simple as that, as it was very deep. Copernican science and Aristotelian science became the Church tradition. It was a conflict of these. Galileo presented his scientific views in support of Copernicus as well as his biblical views in a â€Å"letter to the Grand Duchess of Tuscany† (1615). It became the reason of his first Church trial and censure. For the â€Å"Church†, if Aristotle was found to be wrong, Christianity was wrong. When Galileo revealed the idea presented in his book, he was charged with unorthodoxy or heresy. This was due to the published â€Å"Dialogue Concerning the Two Chief World Systems†. This was found offensive and unpleasant to the Cardinal-turned-Pope Urban VIII. Therefore, the Pope requested that his ideas and views be presented and published as part of his writing. But, the writing was as a dialogue between three characters, in which the popes ideas was represented by the dumbest character, "Simplicius". Due to this, he was arrested. Q.2. Swift in Voyage to Laputa, says that the behaviour and attitude of the animals depicted was very orderly and â€Å"rational†. It was also quite acute and judicious. Therefore, he tried to conclude that they must be

Wednesday, October 30, 2019

Characters and strong association Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Characters and strong association - Essay Example All of these things are dependent on the setting of the novel and they shape the man that Robert was at the beginning of the novel and the man that he had become at the end. At the beginning of The Wars, we find out that Robert has just enlisted in the army because he wants to escape the feelings of guilt that he has after his sister’s death. We also learn that Robert is opposed to the war in some ways, but he feels as though enlisting is the only way to escape the feelings that he has, as well as the accusations that his own mother has been making against him. Therefore, it is the setting at the family’s house that initially turns Robert into a soldier, but also what has made him into such a compassionate character. As the story continues, Robert begins to develop an extremely short temper, as he lashes out at others and sees his relationship with his mother completely disintegrate. He also pushes his father away, as although they get along, they have differing opinions on a number of things and cannot be together all the time. The wartime setting also adds to this anger, as Robert feels as though human lives are not highly regarded during a war and he sees the worst that humanity has to offer everyday. When Robert kills the German soldier, even though the soldier let him and his troops lives, we can still see how unnatural this role is for Robert, but it is a role that the setting has forced him into. As the novel draws to a close, we see Robert drift towards madness, as he is unable to come to grips with all of the horrible things that he has experienced. He wishes that someone could teach him to be a killer because he does not understand how other people can do it so easily. At this point we can see the psychological damage that the war has done to Robert, as it has completely changed the person that he is and he never gets the chance to be himself again, as he dies as a result of injuries sustained in a fire. This novel shows the

Monday, October 28, 2019

Key Messages To Communicate With Targeted Segment Marketing Essay

Key Messages To Communicate With Targeted Segment Marketing Essay Introduction: In the modern society, fashion had always been considered as an important aspect in daily life. According to the Fashion arts (2010), there is an increasing in number of intensive competition between fashion retailers for their shares of the consumer market. In another word, it is a battle to gain the customers attention and the customers loyalty. Therefore, I am now writing this report in order to support our companys strategy to promote our new range of clothes. This report will provide a draft communication plan with a logo and a strapline along with recommendations for our KMstyle store in order to enhance our brand, communicate with public. What is a communication plan? Communication plan is a document written in order to accomplish our association communications. It will help to define the audiences needed to communicate with, show the way to accomplish our objectives, which method or tools can be used and how you will evaluate the results of the program. Communication consist of writing, oral, electronic interact with certain type of audiences. A communication plan usually aiming for what is our main objective, goal, who is the audience needed to be approached, key messages, tactic, how we can contact them, in which method, using which tools, where to get the information (Robin Mayhall) Overview and define our main objective KMstyle is one of the fashion leading retailers over 20 years in the fashion industry. The company operates a supply chain network with over 100 stores in the UK and continuous expanding. Kmstyle provides an extensive range of womans fashion products include clothing, accessories. We are now launching a new range of trendy fashion clothes designed by top supermodel Kate Moss. Our goal is to create and maintain a favourable public image by communication to the general public, attract new customers, promote our brand and stay up to date compete with other retailers. Define our target audience It is vital to identify who our target audience are; they are critically influence on the communicators decision about what to say, how, when, where and to whom. Kmstyle new launching products are focusing on young and trendy segment. Question such as: Is the target new to the category or a current used? Is the target loyal to the brand? Target is loyal to competitor or someone who switches between brands? If a brand user, is he or she a frequently shopper or notshould be considered as the answer will effect communication strategy (Kotler P, Brady M, Goodman M Hansen T 2009, p 696). All we need is information which can be obtained internally from our staffs, marketing department, HR department ect as well as externally from customers and even from our competitors. Key messages to communicate with targeted segment This is where we need to question ourselves: WHO, WHAT, WHEN, WHY AND HOW of communications: WHO will introduce the new range of clothes, brand or event? WHAT is our company new offering? What are those new features or benefits? WHEN these offering will be available? When the promotion will be launched? WHERE will the events, promotion, offer will take place? WHY should the targeted audience be interested in our range of products? HOW can our audience get more information on the offering/promotion/products? These messages should be cleared, written in language that the target audiences can understand and relate to. (Fine ArtsFund) Identify communication methods This is one of the most important steps in a communication plan as how KMstyle plans to communicate with the segmented audiences? Which key messages should be used each time we communicate? And how we can make sure our audiences receive the information, hence we can draw out new ways to reach them (Fine ArtsFund) Failure in communication will cause negative effects to our companys image in the future, therefore choosing the correct method, using appropriate mediums, deliver the right messages at the right time are essential. Communication mix Media Most conventional communication tool is advertising. The main purpose of advertising is introducing and reminding the public about our companys existent in another word creating brand awareness. Advertising KMstyles aim is to inform, persuade the public, remind and reinforce information about the brand. It is a non-personal sale presentation which influences a large number of audiences (Kotler P, Brady M, Goodman M Hansen T 2009, p 72). Advertising can be general classified as newspaper, magazines, radio, television, internet, websites email, direct mail, outdoor ads, transportation ads, email and phone call which are various methods to connect people (Jeff Madura 2007, p529) Advertising advantages are: Make good impression on the reader by suggesting a professional approach which improves the changes of its message being accepted The content or information is easier to understand Add impact and interest Messages will be delivered to a large number of audiences Exposure is unlimited to your ad as people can come back to see the ad anytime. Newspaper and magazines are low cost budget, they are distributed nationwide and more focused Radio has its advantage as it talk to the audience even thought it lacks of visual effect. Television ads become more common nowadays, research had shown approximately more than 40 million women are watching the annual Academy Awards, many fashion firms and lipstick focus may their ads on this program however advertise on a popular show will be very expensive for example a one minute ad during the Super Bowl cost more than $3 million (Jeff Madura 2007, p531). Choosing internet as a communication medium is a must. It is necessary to have a proper website designed which includes all the information about the new range of clothes, together with promotions, vouchers Direct mail advertising: is also used by sending catalogs directly to homes, for example the cosmetic firms Avon advertised their products by direct mail method. Outdoor ads: are shown on billboards and signs can also be considered as they attract customers attention quickly. Transportation ads: print advertisements such as poster, leaflets, slogan, logo are often displayed on busses, cabs, taxi as they have a strong visual effect and easily recognized at one glance (Jeff Madura 2007, p533) Product placement: is where the product is advertised through the star, movie, show as the majority of public are getting tired of normal advertisement. Product placement become the latest trend and widely used as they are quite costly to launch but mostly bring out an effective results. For example: by showing many of the clothes on the hit show Gossip Girl had made a massive impact on young designer and Project Runway alumna Alexandra Vidal, as fans often eager to own and to wear the same clothes as their favourite star (Trend Hunters) Conduct survey, questionnaires: enable public to acknowledge our brand also we will be able to get their email and contact information once they register through our websites. After that, we can send out information about our brand, sending out news, survey, and questionnaire through internet. Sending out survey is an easy way to find out what people need and want, whether they satisfy with our service, this method is commonly used in every organisation nowadays. Its characteristics are : Useful in describing the characteristics of a large population which none other method has this capability. Can be controlled and dealing remotely through email, telephone, mail which show the results in statistical way. With a high flexibility, many question can be asked in a survey, to complete usually need 5 30 minutes. Had a high reliable rate, easy to obtain and low cost. Survey can be shortening to questionnaire form, which can be used on focus group, face to face interview. However the percentage of replying results is relatively lower than the other method also they were designed under a general questions, possibly missing what is most information needed to get (CSU) Personal selling involves individual sale-person conducts: personal selling Face to face, one on one basis which sale-person got paid by commission. This method can be alternative such an interview face to face with customer to get more information from them or Focus group: invite 3- 10 customers to form a group with prepared questions about KMstyles fashion product range in order to retrieve specific information such as: thoughts, feeling, attitudes or ideas about the company from customers. Sale promoting: produce a high sales response in the short run (Kotler P, Brady M, Goodman M Hansen T, 2009) Coupon: are attached in newspaper, magazines and ads to encourage the purchase for a product consequence increase customers loyalty to the brand Vouchers: discount 10-50% off or buy 3 for 2 prices Premiums: giving out gifts or prize for customer who purchase over  £100 for example. This method gives an extra incentive to purchase products. (Jeff Madura 2007, p533) Public relations: create and maintain a favourable public image is crucial. It has a big impact on KMstyles reputation. Special events: some firm sponsor a special event such as car racing, sports, and football for example: Nike promoting their brand logo printed on runner shirt or shoes. On the other hand, in fashion industry event such as fashion shows week enable the viewing of fashion latest style, this is a place called social gathering and get interact with other brands as well as reporters, media. News releases: a brief announcement of a firm in written form provide to the media with headlines which enables the firm to update the public about its products or operations, also to clarify false rumours that could adversely affect the firms reputation. Press conference is similar to the new release but instead of written from it is an oral announcement. It is more specify and more personal as news are released directly to the media. (Jeff Madura 2007, p533-543) Recommendation key to success General speaking, to be effective, communication to the audience has to Be targeted carefully to suit each section Must be an on-going, consistent and frequent process. The information available must be reliable and up-to-date, in order to multi level and promotional to draw attention toward our company (WARP, 2004). KMstyles webpage should have easy contents yet professional layout. Information that is published on the site should be cleared for the audience by using email hyperlinks, newsletters and other media. There should be links to customer service, clothes range with pictures and prices, size guide, info personal shopping is highly recommended as many people do their shopping online or some orders are global. Below is an illustration of a fashion retailer website names RiverIsland:Untitled Creating blogs, groups, registering with some popular websites such www.facebook.com, www.twitter.com, yahoo, MSN where a large amount our target audience are connected. Create a link to our main KMstyles website to get the public subscribed. Recommend fashion popular fashion websites with large community networks: fashionising.com, stylehive.com, keboodle.com, thisnext.com, stylefeeder.com, shareyourlook.com consist of difference styles and fashions which will help KMstyle improve and gather information (Chris Odel) Through internet, we can get customers email which will help us to contact them, sending them information, surveys about our new range, new promotions or vouchers and collect their information. Conducting survey I recommend the website: https://www.questionpro.com , it will help to design survey questions for free. Once you register for an account, you will be able to access to the website, from creating every single question to a complete a professional survey and sending it to emails directly from your account. Below is a demonstration of a survey created from questionpro website: dd Meeting up with a marketing officer or hr, accounting department or even any staff who work for KMstyle in order to collect more information about our customers, also statically know about KMstyle range of products. For example: booking an appointment with Mr X a sale manager operation, he has the recording of stock room, he will eventually be able to give out the figure of which products are best selling and which are not ect(River Island) Advertising is highly recommended as a key of branding awareness, KMstyle advantages are having our products designed by top supermodel KateMoss. It will be effective and efficient to use her image to boost up KMstyle using fashion product placement method. According to Tungate Mark When a celebrity wears something, it has direct impact on sales, April Glasssborow, senior buyer for international designer collections at Harvery Nichols recalled when Victoria Beckham was photographed in a green satin Chloe dress by the Sunday Times Style section, it created a demand. Focus on advertising on fashion magazines type such as : Cosmos, Glamour, Vougue, Elle Recruiting sale staff for improving personal selling, staff will approach customers with questionnaires given and leaflet to handout over public A few samples of question can be: Do you like shopping? How often do you shop? Which brand is your favourite? What style of clothes do you consider best suit you? What do you think about our KMstyle Brand? What type of clothes you usually shop in KMstyle? Have you ever shop form our online store? Did you receive offers or discount from us? In the consequence we will be able to collect more data from these answers. Developing poster upon Kate Mosss style or poster display in front of the store. For example : FashionShowLogoNewLowRes.gif katemoss1.jpg New range of products Feel of the temptation km_logo.jpg Image source: http://magsandfashion.files.wordpress.com/2009/08/katemoss1.jpg http://www.berninausablog.com/files/FashionShowLogoNewLowRes.gif http://www.katemarston.co.uk/images/km_logo.jpg Additionally, billboard with high quality of printing which visible through the day can be placed on Piccadilly Circus or airport Press conferences or new releases rely on Kate Mosss image. Recommended on: the Times, the Guardian, the Independent, the Daily Telegraph An example of successful promotion: Victorias Secret relies on models to do promotional tours in which they promote Victoria Secret products (Jeff Madura, 2007) Launch or attend the fashion shows e.g. the London Fashion week to boost up KMstyles image and create positive public relation. Here are some keys step needed to be consider before running a fashion shows: Decide the purpose of the fashion show make a list of what are our objective for the shows put up fliers, ads, poster, leaflet in order to spread news about the shows book a location in advance with an estimate amount of audiences Have meetings with models: Kate Moss advertise the show dont be too stress and have fun, enjoy the show! (Kate Russell) Below is a sample of an advertisement on fashion show Image Source: http://fc04.deviantart.net/fs24/f/2007/355/0/7/Fashion_Show_Poster_by_lightskinnnn38.jpg Fashion_Show_Poster_by_lightskinnnn38.jpg Main keys to success: Draw out a timetable and bulletin all the key points: date and time, things to do, meeting need to attend, person need to contact, how frequent, and staff involved Enable customers to access and contact our organisation, looking out for feedback in an effective way Keep contact, stay on track and inform customer about information from our company also connect with internal departments. Efficiently using communication method to promote our company range of product and improve our appearance Considering having or attending press conference, fashion shows keeping data up-to-date, renewing our material in order to attract more customers. Recruiting more staff specialise in marketing area and sale staff. Conclusion: In the fashion industry, it is vital to understand how communication is the key of information and taking a consideration to be able to communicate is necessary. Generally speaking, this report overall present a draft communication plan along with my communication support recommendations in order to help KMstyle promote the new range of clothes to the targeted segment. Together with the disadvantages, advantages of each methods and how to ensure a success results in communication process.. If there is any further enquiry regarding these; please do not hesitate to contact me via my email. (2687 words) References and sources Books: Kotler. P. Brady, M. Goodman, M Hansen, T (2009). Marketing Management, Pearson Education Limited, England, Essex, chapter 19, designing and managing marketing communications, p 696 Kotler. P. Brady, M. Goodman, M Hansen, T (2009). Marketing Management, Pearson Education Limited, England, Essex, chapter 20, managing mass and personal communications, p 722 Madura, J (2007), Introduction to business, 4edn, Thomson south western, advertising, p529. Madura, J (2007), Introduction to business, 4edn, Thomson south western, advertising, p531. Madura, J (2007), Introduction to business, 4edn, Thomson south western, advertising, p533-543. Electronic/online source: University of arts (2010), Introduction to fashion retailing, [Online]. Available from: http://www.fashion.arts.ac.uk/shortcourses/shortcourses_Introduction_to_fashion_retailing.htm [Accessed 05 Feb 2010] Robin Mayhall, How to develop a communication plan, key messages, [Online]. Available from: http://www.hieran.com/comet/howto.html [Accessed 05 Feb 2010] Robin Mayhall, How to develop a communication plan, tactics, [Online]. Available from: http://www.hieran.com/comet/howto.html [Accessed 05 Feb 2010] Fine ArtsFund, Creating a communication plan, Online]. Available from: http://www.artsincubator.org/marketing/communication-plan [Accessed 09 Feb 2010] River Island, [Online]. Available from: http://xml.riverisland.com/flash/content.php [Accessed 09 Feb 2010] River Island [Online]. Available from: http://isw.changeworknow.co.uk/riverisland/vms/managers/positions/RI-7Y6FJL01 [Accessed 09 Feb 2010] Tungate, M, 2008. Fashion Brands : Branding Style from Armani to Zara [Online].2nd Edition. Kogan Page, Limited. Chapter 4. The designer as brand, p280. Available from: http://site.ebrary.com/lib/westminsterintl/docDetail.action?docID=10250421p00=communication+plan+fashion+promoting [Accessed 12 Feb 2010] CUS, Writing guide research, advantages and disadvantages of the survey method, [Online]. Available from: http://writing.colostate.edu/guides/research/survey/com2d1.cfm [Accessed 09 Feb 2010] Trend hunters, Fashion Product Placement Gossip Girl Boosts Alexandra Vidal, [Online]. Available from: http://www.trendhunter.com/trends/gossip-girl-alexandra-vidal-fashion [Accessed 10 Feb 2010] WARP (2004), Example of WARP communication plan V1.1, 3.2 Audience, [Online]. Available from http://www.warp.gov.uk/Marketing/CommPlanV1.1.pdf [Accessed 10 Feb 2010] Chris Odel, ezinearticals, Promote Your Own Clothing Brand Top Fashion Networking Sites [Online]. Available from http://ezinearticles.com/?Promote-Your-Own-Clothing-BrandTop-Fashion-Networking-Sitesid=1102112 [Accessed 10 Feb 2010] QuestionPro, Fashion attitudes, [Online]. Available from: http://www.questionpro.com/akira/showSurveyLibrary.do?surveyID=148mode=1 [Accessed 10 Feb 2010] Kate Russell, How to start a fashion show, [Online]. Available from: http://www.ehow.com/how_4443476_start-fashion-show.html [Accessed 10 Feb 2010]

Friday, October 25, 2019

Davidsons The Folly of Trying to Define Truth :: Philosophy Argumentative Papers

Davidson's "The Folly of Trying to Define Truth" Davidson’s argument against the possibility of defining truth draws upon the work of Tarski. However, Tarski’s assumption that the semantic conception of truth holds only for formal languages which are not semantically closed is not as plausible as it seems to be since it can be shown that this would result in the impossibility of formulating a theory of truth, because the epistemological presuppositions of formal semantics undermine any theory of representation of reality in which our cognitions can be true or false representations. Yet Davidson concludes that "there cannot be a definition of ‘For all languages L, and all sentences s in L, s is true in L if and only if . . . s . . . L’." I am challenging Davidson by introducing into his above scheme my own definition of truth — "For all languages L, and all sentences s in L, s is true in L if and only if we prove s in L" — and then showing how to prove this definition philosophically. I. Introduction: Can we define truth? Davidson argues for "the folly of trying to define truth" and claims that Tarski's "accomplishment was accompanied by a proof that truth cannot (given various plausible assumptions) be defined in general" (Davidson, 1996:269). Tarski's plausible assumptions are that his "semantic conception of truth" can be formulated only for formal languages which are not semantically closed. But these assumptions are not so plausible as they seem since it can be shown that if we accept them it is impossible to formulate a theory of truth because the epistemological presuppositions of formal semantics undermine any theory of representation of reality in which our cognitions can be true or false representations (Nesher, 1996). Yet Davidson concludes from Tarski's theory of truth that "there cannot be definition of `For all languages L, and all sentences s in L, s is true in L if and only if ... s ... L'." I would like to start by challenging Davidson about his claim for the impossibility of defining truth and to introduce into his above scheme my own definition of truth; then I will show how to prove this definition philosophically: [1] `For all languages L, and all sentences s in L, s is true in L if and only if we prove s in L'. We can see immediately that the plausible assumptions of Tarski's "semantic conception of truth" for semantically formal languages do not hold in my definition of truth since I define truth in the same language in which it is used.

Thursday, October 24, 2019

Conflicting perspectives Essay

Before initial reading: The comments to the right are my thoughts and questions on phrases I have placed in the essay and how appropriate they would be. Analyse the ways conflicting perspectives generate diverse and provocative insights. All texts composed convey an agenda which is based on the composer’s context. William Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar, Jason Reitman’s satirical film Thank You For Smoking (2005) and George Orwell’s Animal Farm (1945) all use conflicting perspectives to convey their agenda by generating diverse and provocative insights. Conflicting perspectives are generated through the use and potential abuse of power, manipulation and the contrast between public and private personas and thus the responder is positioned to accept the perspective the composer has deemed to be valid. The use and abuse of power, the use of manipulation to gain power and the contrast between public and private personas are explored through the portrayal of conflicting perspectives. It can be seen that the responder is positioned to †¦.. the point you’re trying to make is that the use of conflicting perspectives allows for some ambiguity in the portrayal of these themes but you might then say that ‘ultimately we are positioned to accept that†¦Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ and then you could specify exactly what. Shakespeare’s play Julius Caesar demonstrates conflicting perspectives on the nature of power. Shakespeare utilised this play as a commentary on the political situation of the time regarding the monarch of Elizabeth I. Elizabeth had gradually increased her power at the expense of the aristocracy and House of Commons, giving rise to political disputes. Likewise, Caesar has been granted dictatorial powers in the Roman Republic but he is not presented to have misused his power. Instead, Caesar’s hubris is more prevalent this which is seen to be the catalyst for the potential misuse of power. Brutus is aware of this and his idealism for a Roman Republic leads him to join the conspirators, shown in his soliloquy in Act Two Scene One. Brutus uses extended metaphors of a ladder and serpents in order to question Caesar’s ambition in conjunction with power. Brutus states  that ‘young ambition’s ladder [cause him to] look into the clouds, [leading him to] scorn the base degrees by which he did ascend’. Brutus also considers Caesar ‘a serpent’s egg, which†¦ would grow mischievous, and kill him in the shell’. The imagery of killing before birth reveals that Brutus is willing to remove Caesar before any tyrannical tendencies take place, suggesting that the assassination was unjust. Brutus would later attempt to justify the assassination that ‘because [Caesar] was ambitious, I slew him’. The conditional language and use of logos in demonstrating a clear cause and effect convinces the audience at Caesar’s funeral oration that the assassination was just, based on the declarative mood in their reaction that ‘Caesar was a tyrant’. However an alternative perspective is displayed through Antony. Even with Caesar’s dictatorial powers he has not seen any way in which he has abused his position, forming the basis of his defence of Caesar in his funeral oration. He uses conditional language by questioning ‘if Caesar was ambitious’ and he uses logos in presenting Caesar’s lack of ambition. Antony draws on examples such as ‘he thrice refused [the crown]’ and when coupled with the rhetorical question ‘did this in Caesar seem ambitious?’ he questions the view of the responders by providing a logical response to Brutus’ ill-based accusations. Antony is able to demonstrate Caesar’s lack of ambition and hence Caesar’s just use of power for the good of Rome. As a result Shakespeare presents two conflicting perspectives on power which generates diverse and provocative insights into his context. George Orwell’s Animal Farm also evokes similar ideas but its context as an allegory for the Stalinist rule of Soviet Russia must also be considered. George Orwell explores the notion of the corrupting nature of power in his allegorical novel (or political satire) ‘Animal Farm’. The allegory is a criticism of Soviet Communism tracks the rise of Napoleon, representing Stalin after the overthrow of Mr Jones, representing the last Tsar of Russia, Nicholas II. and how his power is seen to slowly corrupt prompting in its abuse. At the beginning of the allegory/fable the animals are seen to be harbouring discontent against their autocratic ruler of Mr Jones through their plotting to overthrow humans out of their farm. Major states with a declarative mood that they should ‘remove Man from the scene, and the root cause of hunger and overwork is abolished forever’. This connotes that Mr  Jones has abused his powers in allowing the poor conditions for his working animals. After the animals have revolted against Mr Jones the original commandments of Animalism are created, calling for the equal distribution of power as ‘all animals are equal’. However Napoleon’s use of intimidation through brute force upsets the equality and with the exile of Snowball Napoleon is left in a position of absolute power. Napoleon’s guard dogs are used as a motif to symbolise his power as even after his initial deployment of his dogs against Snowball ‘the dogs growled so threateningly that they accepted his explanation without any further questions’. Napoleon’s power is also seen to corrupt him and he is ironically presented as to be simply a replacement for Mr Jones. Through reverting the name of the farm back to ‘Manor Farm’ Orwell perceives that the situation the animals are in do not differ from the reality of life under Mr Jones. Napoleon’s ‘transformation’ into a man is seen to represent this as the animals ‘look from pig to man, from man to pig, and from pig to man again, but already it was impossible to determine which was which’. The repetition and inversion of the order of ‘pig’ and ‘man’ highlight the confusion the animals have over their present reality. This illustrates the corruption of power in Napoleon and with this Orwell is suggesting that life under Stalin was no different than from Russia’s previous autocratic ruler of Tsar Nicholas II. Consequently Orwell’s use of conflicting perspectives over the issue of power in an allegory is able to provide a commentary of Orwell’s perspective of the nature of Stalinist Russia. Good – you clearly analyse and show the changed perspective of Napoleon but revise and consider how to clearly identify the conflicting perspectives. Julius Caesar demonstrates how a conflict between public and private personas can result in conflicting perspectives of characters. Act One Scene One introduces the idea of conflicting perspectives within personas with the Senators Flavius and Murellius and their perception of the commoners. The Senators clearly see the commoners as inferior with their descriptions as of them as ‘vulgar’ and ‘the basest metal’. This juxtaposes the positive diction used by them to describe the commoners as ‘good countrymen’ when they are in the public sphere, suggesting that the patronising tone used had the sole purpose of gaining support from the commoners. However Antony is  the character that conceals the deepest division between public and private personas, demonstrating his Machiavellian nature. His public persona is presented toas supportive of the assassination by being supportive of the conspirators as he states that ‘it would become me better than to close in terms of friendship with thine enemies’. Give a bit more info of context. Who does he say this to? However his antithesis is indicated through his ‘hope that you shall give me reasons why and wherein Caesar was dangerous’. How? This is implied to be a signal of support from Antony towards the conspiratorshow? but it hid his inner motives of his desire offor conflict against the conspirators. His private persona is presented to be heavily opposed to the assassination and he calls for ‘havoc’ and ‘let slip the dogs of war’, with the violent imagery clearly stating his intention and perspective of the assassination. Mention that this is in a soliloquy before the oration and what we learn. His private persona is reflected in his funeral orations where he repeatedly implies his disagreement with the assassination but never explicitly stating his stance. Initially he states that he ‘comes to bury Caesar, not to praise him’, but this is juxtaposed with his questioning tone and use of rhetorical questions that serve the purpose of suggesting the lack of justice in the assassination. Eg? His private persona comes into full view by the conclusion of his oration where through pathos he calls the ‘stones of Rome to rise up and mutiny’. Link to the dogs of war comments.This perspective of encouraging mutiny is therefore in direct contrast with his interactions with the other conspirators. Explain where. As a result conflicting perspectives are shown also within the characters in order to generate diverse and provocative insights. Similarly, Jason Reitman’s satirical film Thank You For Smoking also projects similar ideas regarding public and private personas. The film is a satire onof the perception of cigarettes and tobacco but not to the extent in which it is condoned, due to the fact that no character in the film is seen smoking. Conflicts in private and personal personas are seen through the protagonist of Nick Naylor with his public support of cigarettes and questioning of its associated health issues, juxtaposed with his private persona where he openly admits to smoking-related health issues. This issue is displayed through Naylor’s criteria for winning an argument, that ‘I  proved that you’re wrong. And if you’re wrong, I’m right’extend this quote with film techniques used at this point. His public persona has a distinct lack of integrity as he provides false promises on the nature of his employer, the Academy of Tobacco Studies. This is shown at the beg inning of the film where on a talk show he promises ‘50 million dollars to encourage kids not to smoke’. This is done despite it being completely contradictory to the perspectives of his employer who asks him ’50 million dollars? Are you out of your mind?’ The anger of his boss on promising the sum of money is seen through the closeup of his face as well as his questioning tone. However Naylor’s private persona admits to the health issues associated with smoking. In a meeting with the MOD group (Merchants of Death, constituting people from America’s firearms, alcohol and tobacco industries) in the film they discuss deaths directly attributed to their industry in order to gauge America’s most hated industry. Naylor boasts that ‘my product puts away 475 000 a year’ and he gloats that the level of alcohol related deaths is miniscule in context ‘100 000 in a year? Wowee†¦ a tragedy. Excuse me if I don’t exactly see terrorists getting excited kidnapping anyone from the alcohol industry’. The unconcerned facial expression coupled with the mid-close up shots of Naylor displaying no emotion and the comparison of deaths to terrorism demonstrates the complete disregard of human life. You need to comment on the use of satire as a way to highlight the conflict between what is said on screen and the purpose of the film maker. This is exemplified by the fast transition of shots in the conversation indicating the competitiveness of the argument. This scene is a satire ?on the perceived lack of moral concern demonstrated by tobacco industry through its use of absurdist behaviour, mainly instigated by Naylor. Therefore Naylor’s contradiction between his public and private personas is also another medium used by Reitman in order to convey conflicting perspectives on his satire of the tobacco industry. Manipulation is one central concern in Julius Caesar which generates conflicting perspectives. Cassius is able to manipulate Brutus into firstly believing the idealism of his cause and thus joining the conspirators and enacting Caesar’s death. Brutus is presented to be an idealistic character as he ‘loves the name of honour more than I fear death’. The antithetical  language of ‘honour’ and ‘death’ demonstrates that he has cast himself as the honourable idealist, and when coupled with Brutus’ fear that Rome ‘chooses Caesar as their king’ Cassius is free to manipulate him into joining the conspirators. He uses hyperbole to exaggerate Caesar’s status and he juxtaposes images of him being both a ‘Colossus’ and a ‘sick girl’ in order to prove his weakness to Brutus. Cassius also appeals to his idealistic nature. His monologue contains the epistrophy epistrophe ‘one man’ that reveals Caesar’s true power, that only ‘one man†¦ is Rome’. This position is different to the democratic Roman Republic that Brutus represents and admires and he is slowly manipulated to join the conspirators. Manipulation is also seen to demonstrate the power of language, seen through the differing funeral orations of Brutus and Antony. Initially the commoners are irate onabout Caesar’s assassination and the declarative mood presented through ‘we will be satisfied’ highlights their anger but it also serves as a point of juxtaposition. Brutus’ use of logos convinces the crowd that he ‘loved Rome more’ than Caesar through posing rhetorical statements that question the loyalty of the commoners and Caesar’s supposedly true nature. Immediately following his oration the commoners immediately affirm that ‘Caesar was a tyrant’, with this declarative statement juxtaposing heavily with the sentiment displayed in the first line of the scene. However the crowd are manipulated again by Antony to subscribe to his point of view. He adopts a questioning tone throughout his oration in inquiring onabout the validity of Brutus’ statements in order to not directly oppose Brutus but let his audience question their own perspectives. He repeats the phrase ‘Brutus says he was ambitious, and Brutus is an honourable man’ but the repetition of the phrase combined with the logos in his argument in proving Caesar’s lack of ambition therefore hint at the invalidity of Brutus’ argument. Further on in his oration Antony also uses metaphor to describe Brutus, that he was ‘Caesar’s angel’. This image is contrasted with the assassination, the ‘most unkindest cut of all’ and this contributes to the sentiment of betrayal with Brutus that assists in manipulating the audience. By the conclusion of the speech the commoners are united with one common purpose, shown in the stage direction in that all the commoners state ‘We’ll mutiny [against Brutus]. Anto ny’s rapid manipulation of the crowd demonstrates the power of language  and how it can be used to shape perspective. The manipulation of the animals in Animal Farm also conveys similar sentiment. Orwell utilises a cyclical structure of the allegory in order to demonstrate the power of manipulation instigated mainly by the antagonist of Napoleon and his spokesperson of Squealer. Orwell’s use of the text as an allegory of Soviet Russia creates a chilling context for the reader due to the fact that manipulation was repeated in Stalin’s rule of Russia, leading to the subjugation of the citizens of the Soviet Union. The pigs of Napoleon and Snowball quickly establish themselves as the superior class in the new ‘classless’ society of Animalism. Their superior intellect immediately allows them to create a simplified maxim for Animalism, which was to be ‘four legs good, two legs bad’. The sheep, representing the uneducated class, immediately begin to circulate this simplified form of Animalism and their attitude is reflected in the sheep ‘bleating this onfor ho urs on end’. The onomatopoeia exemplifies the repetitive nature and submissiveness in accepting this maxim and thus of the commands set by Napoleon throughout the allegory. Motif as well? The commandments of Animalism is used as a vehicle to demonstrate the manipulation of the animals. The commandments are changed repeatedly throughout the allegory to manipulate the common animals and their ‘poor memory’ as well as their naivety contributes to their ultimate acceptance of the new norm. The first notion of this manipulation is done when the pigs move and reside in the farmhouse. The new commandment reads ‘no animal shall sleep in a bed with sheets’, with the ‘sheets’ clause added. The character of Clover demonstrates the naivety of the animals in general as she ‘had not remembered if it mentioned sheets, but as it was there on the wall, it must have done so’. The high modality of ‘it must have done so’ contrasts her failure to rememb er the commandment. Squealer’s immediate entry in justifying the change in the commandment is another example of manipulation as he uses his intellectual superiority and logos in order to influence his listeners. He states that a bed ‘is simply a place to sleep in’ and not a physical construct and his argument juxtaposes the affirmation at the establishment of Animalism that the commandments were ‘unalterable laws’. The death of the character of Boxer also reveals the extent of Napoleon’s manipulation. Boxer is a follower of Napoleon throughthe adoption of the motto ‘Napoleon is always right’ which, when combined with his hardworking nature, should warrant great care and respect from the pigs. However when Boxer falls ill he is taken to the ‘horse slaughterer’ to be killed in exchange for money. This reality, witnessed by the animals, contrasts the explanation of Squealer in that ‘the van had previously been the property of the knacker, and had been bought by the veterinary surgeon’. By the conclusion of the allegory Napoleon’s power has become increased to such an extent that even the commandments of Animalism are shown to reflect the changes in that ‘all animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others’. The paradoxical nature of this statement juxtaposes the original idealistic thinking based behind the creation of Animalism and demonstrates the extent of the manipulation of the animals. The animals are not aware that they are living in conditions very similar to life under Jones which forms the basis of Orwell’s cyclical structure of the allegory. The bending of the truth by the pigs as well as the willingness of the animals to accept this reality highlights the vast extent and impact of manipulation. Thus manipulation is another medium in which conflicting perspectives can be revealed. Composers of texts use conflicting perspectives in order to generate diverse and provocative insights into their context. These perspectives are shown to favour one side and they can provide an insight into the opinion of the composer on issues affecting their context. This is seen in Julius Caesar, Thank You For Smoking and Animal Farm where the composers, through their portrayal of power, public and private personas and manipulation that form the basis of conflicting perspectives. This is excellent overall. However, there are things you can do to improve. The analysis of AF is almost longer than Caesar. You must mention the end of Caesar in your analysis. There doesn’t seem to be at least one quote from Acts 4 or 5. Find a couple and use them. In the first body paragraph on power, use quotes for Antony from elsewhere in the play, not just the oration. Eg comment on the deification of Caesar at the start and how stage directions are used by Shakespeare to contrast the views of the commoners/Antony/ and Cassius/Brutus and others. Give an example of where we  see Caesar’s hubris ‘northern star’†¦ and contrast that with his humility elsewhere. Shakespeare is always offering contrasting views and creating ambiguity. However, comment also on how we are finally positioned at the end of the play. If discussing Brutus’s hubris, mention the tragic structure. Contrast the way this character is presented at the beginning, middle and then the end when we see the consequences of both his idealism and hubris when he fights with Cassius and dies and then the final comments by Antony. When writing about Antony, consider the way he is presented as loyal, then angry and vengeful about the murder of Caesar, then pitiful, then scheming and manipulative. Take quotes from a range of places throughout the whole play to give the reader a better understanding of the narrative arc of this character. The final paragraph on AF could be edited. It is very long and veers away from the idea of conflicting perspectives in the middle and becomes an analysis of the novel. Throughout the discussion, you could make links between it and Caesar to remind the reader of your point. Email if you have questions.