Monday, September 30, 2019

An Employee Perspective Essay

This error communication situation confuses employees’ performance and motivation. Moreover, let the job feedback become useless and destroy the employee relationship. Therefore, this assignment is to find out the problem of H&M’s Job Feedback by using employee perspective. Moreover, enables employees to become more loyal to the company while they also work toward achieving their long-term career goals. Keywords: Performance & motivation, Brainstorm, Job Feedback, EPAC Introduction & Background Feedback is an anomaly. People have a general sense that feedback is good to give and receive. Therefore, Immediate feedback is critical when we are learning, especially when we do not know what we do not know. Equally important are the attitude of the sender and recipient and the individual providing the critique (London, 2003). A good feedback will provide positive encouragement because they want to convey their genuine interest. When employees feel leadership has their best interest at heart, they are inclined to make corrections and more likely to modify their behavior. Most people want to perform well and they want to know when they are doing something incorrectly. They want constructive a positive feedback by the leader, and they appreciate criticism when it is present in a positive manner. Therefore, feedback is an essential ingredient of an employee development program because people use information about themselves to formulate their career goals, get better performance and motivation. H&M believe in being straightforward and apply the open door principle, which gives employee the right and opportunity to discuss work-related issues directly with management. However, in H&M Hong Kong, employee cannot search any good feedback to provide positive encouragement for their job, this situation shows very critical in the area of Part-time sales Advisor in Hong Kong. Managers are using less time to being seriously to the employee of Part-time sales Advisor. It is because the manager thinks they will not work as a long-term staff (less loyalty) and the role of Part-time staff is less important than the full-time staff. Manager tends to give less time to encourage them by using constructive feedback but Destructive feedback. Destructive feedback is abusive. Although the word â€Å"abusive† may seem extreme as a description of workplace behavior, it occurs, and can be destructive to employees’ performance, careers and self-esteem (Bassman 1992). Therefore, H&M Part-time employees are less receive any comment by their managers. Nonsensically, according to the HR Data of H&M at 2009, there are over a half (55%) of employees are Part-time in H&M around the world. mainly work as Part-time Sales- Advisor. Therefore, if the managers in Hong Kong keep ignore and use less time to encourage them by using constructive feedback.

Sunday, September 29, 2019

Art and Craft

Art has had a great number of different functions throughout its history, making its purpose difficult to abstract or quantify to any single concept. This does not imply that the purpose of Art is â€Å"vague†, but that it has had many unique, different reasons for being created. Some of these functions of Art are provided in the following outline. The different purposes of art may be grouped according to those that are non-motivated, and those that are motivated (Levi-Strauss). Non-motivated functions of art The non-motivated purposes of art are those that are integral to being human, transcend the individual, or do not fulfill a specific external purpose. Aristotle said, â€Å"Imitation, then, is one instinct of our nature. † [16] In this sense, Art, as creativity, is something humans must do by their very nature (i. e. , no other species creates art), and is therefore beyond utility. Basic human instinct for harmony, balance, rhythm. Art at this level is not an action or an object, but an internal appreciation of balance and harmony (beauty), and therefore an aspect of being human beyond utility. â€Å"Imitation, then, is one instinct of our nature. Next, there is the instinct for ‘harmony' and rhythm, meters being manifestly sections of rhythm. Persons, therefore, starting with this natural gift developed by degrees their special aptitudes, till their rude improvisations gave birth to Poetry. -Aristotle [17] Experience of the mysterious. Art provides a way to experience one's self in relation to the universe. This experience may often come unmotivated, as one appreciates art, music or poetry. â€Å"The most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious. It is the source of all true art and science. † -Albert Einstein [18] Expression of the imagination. Art provide a means to express the imagination in non-grammatic ways that are not tied to the formality of spoken or written language. Unlike words, which come in sequences and each of which have a definite meaning, art provides a range of forms, symbols and ideas with meanings that are maleable. â€Å"Jupiter's eagle [as an example of art] is not, like logical (aesthetic) attributes of an object, the concept of the sublimity and majesty of creation, but rather something else – something that gives the imagination an incentive to spread its flight over a whole host of kindred representations that provoke more thought than admits of expression in a concept determined by words. They furnish an aesthetic idea, which serves the above rational idea as a substitute for logical presentation, but with the proper function, however, of animating the mind by opening out for it a prospect into a field of kindred representations stretching beyond its ken. † -Immanuel Kant[19] Universal communication. Art allows the individual to express things toward the world as a whole. [according to whom? ] Earth artists often create art in remote locations that will never be experienced by another person. The practice of placing a cairn, or pile of stones at the top of a mountain, is an example. (Note: This need not suggest a particular view of God, or religion. ) Art created in this way is a form of communication between the individual and the world as a whole. [citation needed] Ritualistic and symbolic functions. In many cultures, art is used in rituals, performances and dances as a decoration or symbol. While these often have no specific utilitarian (motivated) purpose, anthropologists know that they often serve a purpose at the level of meaning within a particular culture. This meaning is not furnished by any one individual, but is often the result of many generations of change, and of a cosmological relationship within the culture. â€Å"Most scholars who deal with rock paintings or objects recovered from prehistoric contexts that cannot be explained in utilitarian terms and are thus categorized as decorative, ritual or symbolic, are aware of the trap posed by the term ‘art'. † -Silva Tomaskova[20] Motivated functions of art Motivated purposes of art refer to intentional, conscious actions on the part of the artists or creator. These may be to bring about political change, to comment on an aspect of society, to convey a specific emotion or mood, to address personal psychology, to illustrate another discipline, to (with commercial arts) to sell a product, or simply as a form of communication. Communication. Art, at its simplest, is a form of communication. As most forms of communication have an intent or goal directed toward another individual, this is a motivated purpose. Illustrative arts, such as scientific illustration, are a form of art as communication. Maps are another example. However, the content need not be scientific. Emotions, moods and feelings are also communicated through art. â€Å"[Art is a set of] artefacts or images with symbolic meanings as a means of communication. † -Steve Mithen[21] Art as entertainment. Art may seek to bring about a particular emotion or mood, for the purpose of relaxing or entertaining the viewer. This is often the function of the art industries of Motion Pictures and Video Games. The Avante-Garde. Art for political change. One of the defining functions of early twentieth century art has been to use visual images to bring about political change. Art movements that had this goal—Dadaism, Surrealism, Russian Constructivism, and Abstract Expressionism, among others—are collectively referred to as the avante-garde arts. â€Å"By contrast, the realistic attitude, inspired by positivism, from Saint Thomas Aquinas to Anatole France, clearly seems to me to be hostile to any intellectual or moral advancement. I loathe it, for it is made up of mediocrity, hate, and dull conceit. It is this attitude which today gives birth to these ridiculous books, these insulting plays. It constantly feeds on and derives strength from the newspapers and stultifies both science and art by assiduously flattering the lowest of tastes; clarity bordering on stupidity, a dog's life. † -Andre Breton (Surrealism)[22] Art for psychological and healing purposes. Art is also used by art therapists, psychotherapists and clinical psychologists as art therapy. The Diagnostic Drawing Series, for example, is used to determine the personality and emotional functioning of a patient. The end product is not the principal goal in this case, but rather a process of healing, through creative acts, is sought. The resultant piece of artwork may also offer insight into the troubles experienced by the subject and may suggest suitable approaches to be used in more conventional forms of psychiatric therapy. Art for social inquiry, subversion and/or anarchy. While similar to art for political change, subversive or deconstructivist art may seek to question aspects of society without any specific political goal. In this case, the function of art may be simply to criticize some aspect of society.

Saturday, September 28, 2019

Chose a good topic for me Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Chose a good topic for me - Essay Example Learning and horning effectual business writing skills can potentially have an immensely positive impact on my career advancement. Effective communication channels are a vital component in the successful running of any business organization. The use of professionally written writing material that is sent through these communication channels has been seen to improve an organization’s productivity as well as increase the ability of all the organization’s key functional areas to work together. This is especially so with the impact of globalization that has resulted in increasing global workplaces where collaboration is the usual norm (Small business Para 1). The development of professional courtesy is one of the benefits of enhancing my business writing skills. In this age of constant text messaging, formal writing is being severely affected and most leading companies have been seen to assume that poor writing skills is actually a sign of laziness. If a business document comes across to the recipient as being too abrupt, it can commonly be misconstrued as a sign of the recipient being not important enough for the sender to take the time out to carefully check the document’s spelling and grammar as well as write complete sentences. Conversely, if an email message is carefully written, it becomes more impressive than a letter because of its added advantage of rapid transmission. The email’s recipient assumes that the sender considers him to be important enough for him to ensure that the message arrived quickly(Small business Para 4). Good business writing skills help in actively persuading customers to buy a company’s products or services. This is an essential skill that is especially vital in the field of sales and marketing and may help a company in increasing its sales turnover figures (Small business Para 2). Business associates and supervisors who have

Friday, September 27, 2019

Assessment Techniques for Evaluating Student Progress Essay

Assessment Techniques for Evaluating Student Progress - Essay Example While formal assessment offers accountability in an education system that calls for measured results, informal assessment is a method that can bring about improvement since it gives a student the ability to evaluate self and to see individually how further learning can lead to success. The two major types of formal assessment are 1) norm-referenced tests and 2) criterion-referenced tests. Both depend on a particular standard, but norm is based on a comparison with other students taking the same test, and criterion-referenced tests measure student ability within a course of study. The student's performance is compared to an established level of achievement for each task or unit of the curriculum (Rothenbacher & Leconte, 1990). The broad definition of curriculum as it relates to this paper is "all the learning planned and guided by the school, whether in groups or individually inside or outside the school" (Kelly, 1983). This type of assessment depends on standardized tests, which are administered annually by school districts and provide a ready source of data. These tests are administered across a large number of students for the purpose of comparing individual performance to the rest of the group. Also, because test publishers provide information about the tests' reliability and validity, the results are generally accepted by educators and the community. In addition, in a structured classroom setting, students have immediate access to assistance and might enjoy the social environment a formal classroom provides. A.2 Criterion-referenced Assessment This method offers a quick analysis that measures students against a set objective or criterion. It also eliminates competition and because the student is not measured by how his or her peers are doing, self-evaluation can bring about a higher level of self-esteem. Based on standardized testing, a result can be determined by a standardized checklist or rubrics, which offers validity within the system. Criterion-referenced assessment might be categorized as either formal or informal. Disadvantages of Formal Assessment Techniques B.1 Norm-referenced Assessment The test results, because they are compared to the results of other students, don't always determine the ability of the individual student. A standardized test is discriminatory because the curve favors high scorers, and lower-scoring students are automatically placed at the bottom. Therefore the actual ability of the test taker is not measured. Standardized tests, especially norm-referenced tests, are the same across all student levels and geographical areas and therefore set up an unrealistic result with the assumption that all students are the same. B.2 Criterion-referenced Assessment Although this system offers more areas of evaluation for individual students, the end result is a standard measurement. Educators sometimes base their evaluation of a student's ability on the overall results instead of looking at an individual's response to different units within the curriculum. A set standard, no matter how informal it may seem, is still structured and the

Thursday, September 26, 2019

Summary on ellis island Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Summary on ellis island - Essay Example Many people who live in the United States today can trace at least someone in their lineage back to Elis Island. At this station, immigrants were required to submit to medical examination in which those that did not pass were sent back to their respective countries. Also, while they were there, it was required to give their information in order to be on record with the United States. Sometimes, due to the lack of interpreters and the different languages and dialects being spoken, when signing in the book names would be written on what they sounded like resulting in the change of the last name. Towards the end of Elis Island, the US government started restricting the number of immigrants coming through when both the Immigrant Quota Act of 1921 and the National Origins Act of 1924 was passed. Eventually, the facility was closed down. In 1976, Elis Island was turned into a tourist facility in which people interested in their family’s genealogy could trace their ancestry back to. It serves as a testimony to all those immigrants who braved the challenges to make it over here and how America was their opportunity for a new life. Bibliography Moreno, Barry. Ellis Island. Great Britain: Arcadia Publishing, 2003. 73-78. Print. Szucs, Loretto . Ellis Island: Tracing Your Family History Through America's Gateway. 10th ed. Provo, UT: Ancestry Publishing, 2000. 2-10. Print.

Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Paper on The Blue Hotel Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Paper on The Blue Hotel - Essay Example In this story by Stephen Crane the theme of conflicts scores over other themes. The conflicts relate to Swede and societal reaction to his self-destructive individuality. The detailing of the theme reveals how Crane challenged such situations. Let’s take the example of Swede’s disposition to life. He strongly feels that everyone in the Blue Hotel wants to kill him. His fear is unfounded and no backgrounder information is provided or logic is given for the lurking fear in his mind. This indicates that conflict is the inherent part of his personality and that is the reason for him to surmise that those in the hotel are angry with him and they want to kill him. Even if it is assumed that he is paranoid being under the influence of alcohol or drugs, why the thought of killing only should float in his mind. This indicates the basic self-destructive behavior of Swede. Next, Swede picks up a fight with Johnny. The first phase of violence doesn’t produce any tangible res ults, and his second bout of aggression after he defeats Johnny in the fight, takes him to death. In a fight this time with a gambler, Swede is stabbed to death. This is a pointer, according to Crane, the things to happen when humankind as a whole takes to self-destruction, inviting disaster that will ultimately lead to total annihilation of the human race itself. Nature will not target human race alone in isolation for destruction. Plant and animal kingdoms also will perish to a great extent. The author of any novel/story, howsoever intelligently may try to sweep under the carpet events related to his life, will reveal something about one’s own psychology and attitudes to life, through the dialogues, and actions of his characters. This is true of Stephen Crane (1871-1900). He died at the age of 28 and thus he belongs to the younger generation, which is combustible. The grinding poverty he suffered all through his adult life and his poor standard of living has something to do with his arrogant social disposition. Added to the problem, he had a poor health record, suffered from tuberculosis, and contacted malaria and failed to take proper care of himself. Not caring for one’s health is again an act of self-destruction and that attitude has to find expression is his literary works and the same has happened in this story through the character of Swede. Did he feel isolated from the society and his surroundings? It must be so as reflected in his disposition. He acted like a rebel against all the established societal norms while interacting in a group. Swede seems to have the permanent grudge against the society and it is revealed in his small and big actions, right from his induction into the plot of the story. That grudge is the root-cause of his self-destructive behaviour. The group referred to in the Blue Hotel is a miniature model of the society and Swede picks up serious quarrels with those present there on one issue or the other. He creates iss ues out of no issues. He seems to have formed certain fixed negative opinions about the society. The reasons could be his upbringing and the adverse circumstances that he had to face early on in life. Nature seems to read the dormant agitations in his mind and as he arrives at the Palace Hotel along with two others, a blizzard develops and everyone stands isolated at the hotel. In the blizzard normal vision is impaired, one cannot see the surroundings properly, and Crane has used the

Tuesday, September 24, 2019

Compare and Contrast images of L.A Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Compare and Contrast images of L.A - Essay Example Ponce’s use of imagery and description in the text makes you feel like you are actually right there with her watching Roy Rogers and Cassidy movies on Sundays. Her joyful tone makes it seem as if life in those days was much easier and less demanding than it is today in our global rat race. In those days, the people would look forward to Father Mueller’s western movies after rosary; it would create a break from monotony and encourage socialization. Today, I’m sure, a teenager would not be caught dead at a social organized by the church, and instead they prefer going to the theatres/movies (which are now extremely affordable), the discos and other places where â€Å"occasions of sin† are very likely to happen. Her word choice is superb; especially the mixture of Spanish and English when relaying a conversation shows the Spaniards character: hot, bubbly and dramatic. The tone of the text gives the reader a sense of excitement and a want to read more, to see w hat is going to happen next. You almost feel as if you want to go back to that day and age and live the author’s life. In almost all aspects, both authors write in the same manner, but of different things. The author also shows the cheekiness of a teenage girl when she speaks of her loyalty to the older ladies for whom she translates the films: â€Å"At times the movies were too long, the plot too predictable. I would tire of my job and yearn to sit in front with Elena. By now I had spent the money given me by Dona Luisa and the Trinidads. As the show dragged on, I fidgeted in my seat, edging toward Elena. Once I had collected mas cincos, I sought ways to escape from the boring job of translating an old cowboy movie. One usually worked†¦ (pg. 805, p. 5). I remained unruffled, my fist tight around the nickels I had earned, as I pushed my way toward Elena. Around me the thoroughly confused women sat in wonder at this sudden turn of events. They squabbled, each wanting to believe only what they had seen on the white screen, until told to â€Å"hush† by those sitting in back†¦. (pg. 806, p. 3). At times I felt guilty about the translation and the nickels, especially when the senoras began to bicker among themselves. My guilt would last until the following Sunday, when once more I might recite an original version of an old western. (pg. 807)† In this respect, we see how children and teenagers have not really evolved much throughout the years, the feelings, the attitudes and the actions are still very much the same. Sure, today one does not have to translate a movie, but it can be seen at events where a teenager who shows up with his/her parents will stay with them only until they can find their friend and soon they are off. There is also still what one might call a â€Å"great divide† between the popular kids and the not so popular kids: â€Å"When she saw me changing my dress for las vistas, Trina would just snicker. â€Å"I wouldn’t be caught at them old movies. It’s not hip!† â€Å"I like em.† â€Å"That’s cause you’re a square.† She tossed back her pageboy, arched her eyebrows (just like Joan Crawford), and then locked herself in the

Monday, September 23, 2019

Legal Language-Research Essay Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Legal Language- Essay - Research Paper Example This assignment will look at the impact of new media on the conduct of judges and juries in relation to a public lecture by the Chief justice of the Victorian Supreme Court, Marilyn Warren, on Open justice in the technological age (Warren, 2013). Juries play a fundamental role in allowing for a participation in the criminal justice process that is all inclusive and reflective of the values found I the community (Robbers, 2008). As such, juries are made up of people gotten from the community and who determine the outcome of a trial. They are to reach decisions basing on the information obtained from court proceedings. This is done with full respect of the law and also in accordance to instructions given to them by the judges overseeing the trials. Information they obtain during court proceedings which in law sums up as evidence is not supposed to be communicated to members outside the jury (Harlow, 2012). They are required to make their deliberations among themselves and not include members of the public including friends and relatives as doing so would compromise on their impartiality if not objectivity. In addition, they are not supposed to have preconceived opinions pertaining to the defendant such as whether he is guilty or not and only use the rule of law to arrive at their decisions. The introduction of new media especially one that is associated with internet is threatening to undermine the workings of juries (Surette, 2014). This is because it posses the challenge on need to observe the right of the public to be given information pertain to their justice system and that of the accused to be subjected to a trial perceived to be fair by all standards. This challenge has caused some juries to be in new headlines for all the wrong reasons. Jurors are now getting used to accessing information that is fast passed as they constantly receive emails, Facebook and twitter posts that influences their

Sunday, September 22, 2019

Discuss leadership and leadership styles Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Discuss leadership and leadership styles - Essay Example This leads to complexity and diversity of leadership and its styles. Leadership definitions have been attributed to well known personality traits wherein, styles of leadership evolves through practicing and blending leadership techniques in various combination. However, managing human and material resources to achieve the organizational objectives remains the prime measure in gauging the worth of a leadership. But this trend of leadership assessment has undergone a major change in the recent past and now instead of looking for some specific qualities of leadership in leaders, leaders are judge by their own specific styles. â€Å"As leadership theory developed, researchers moved away from studying what traits the leader had and placed emphasis on what he or she did --- the leader’s style of leadership† (Marquis & Huston, 2009). The diversity and depth in leadership styles has abstained researchers from reaching a unanimous classification of leadership styles. However som e recurring styles that have emerged and deliberated since long, may qualify for standard leadership styles in nursing. These styles may include Authentic, Servant, Transformational, Charismatic, Autocratic, Democratic, Laissez-Faire, Bureaucratic leadership style etc.

Saturday, September 21, 2019

Immanuel Kant Metaphysics of Morals Essay Example for Free

Immanuel Kant Metaphysics of Morals Essay Kant argued that moral requirements are based on a standard of rationality he dubbed the Categorical Imperative (CI). Immorality thus involves a violation of the CI and is thereby irrational. This argument was based on his striking doctrine that a rational will must be regarded as autonomous, or free in the sense of being the author of the law that binds it. The fundamental principle of morality ? the CI ? is none other than this law of an autonomous will. Thus, at the heart of Kants moral philosophy is a conception of reason whose reach in practical affairs goes well beyond that of a Humean ?slave to the passions. Moreover, it is the presence of this self-governing reason in each person that Kant thought offered decisive grounds for viewing each as possessed of equal worth and deserving of equal respect. In Kants terms, a good will is a will whose decisions are wholly determined by moral demands or as he refers to this, by the Moral Law Kants analysis of commonsense ideas begins with the thought that the only thing good without qualification is a ? good will. While the phrases ? hes good hearted, ? shes good natured and ? she means well are common, ? the good will as Kant thinks of it is not the same as any of these ordinary notions. The idea of a good will is closer to the idea of a ? good person, or, more archaically, a ? person of good will The basic idea is that what makes a good person good is his possession of a will that is in a certain way ? determined by, or makes its decisions on the basis of, the moral law The idea of a good will is supposed to be the idea of one who only makes decisions that she holds to be morally worthy, taking moral considerations in themselves to be conclusive reasons for guiding her behavior. This sort of disposition or character is something we all highly value. Kant believes we value it without limitation or qualification. First, unlike anything else, there is no conceivable circumstance in which we regard our own moral goodness as worth forfeiting simply in order to obtain some desirable object Second, as a consequence, possessing and maintaining ones moral goodness is the very condition under which anything else is worth having or pursuing. Intelligence and even pleasure are worth having only on the condition that they do not require giving up a commitment to honor ones fundamental moral convictions In Kants terms, a good will is a will whose decisions are wholly determined by moral demands or as he refers to this, by the Moral Law A holy ordivine will, if it exists, though good, would not be good because it is motivated by thoughts of duty. argues that a dutiful action from any of these motives, however praiseworthy it may be, does not express a good will and other outcomes of lawful behavior. Indeed, we respect these laws to the degree, but only to the degree, that they do not violate values, laws or principles we hold more dear. Yet Kant thinks in acting from duty that we are not at all motivated by a prospective outcome or some other extrinsic feature of our conduct. We are motivated by the mere conformity of our will to law as such Kant holds that the fundamental principle at the basis of all of our moral duties is a categoricalimperative. It is an imperative because it is a command (e. g. , Leave the gun. Take the cannoli.) More precisely, it commands us to exercise our wills in a particular way, not to perform some action or other. It is categorical in virtue of applying to us unconditionally, or simply because we possesses rational wills, without reference to any ends that we might or might not have. It does not, in other words, apply to us on the condition that we have antecedently adopted some goal for ourselves. Kants first formulation of the CI states that you are to act only in accordance with that maxim through which you can at the same time will that it become a universal law. First, formulate a maxim that enshrines your reason for acting as you propose. Second, recast that maxim as a universal law of nature governing all rational agents, and so as holding that all must, by natural law, act as you yourself propose to act in these circumstances. Third, consider whether your maxim is even conceivable in a world governed by this law of nature. If it is, then, fourth, ask yourself whether you would, or could, rationally will to act on your maxim in such a world. If you could, then your action is morally permissible. Kant held that ordinary moral thought recognized moral duties toward ourselves as well as toward others. Hence, together with the distinction between perfect and imperfect duties, we recognize four categories of duties: perfect duties toward ourselves, perfect duties toward others, imperfect duties toward ourselves and imperfect duties toward others Kants example of a perfect duty to others concerns a promise you might consider making but have no intention of keeping in order to get needed money At the heart of Kants moral theory is the position that rational human wills are.

Friday, September 20, 2019

Balance Between Life And The Culture

Balance Between Life And The Culture Keeper N Me by Richard Wagamese, is a novel based on the necessary balance between life and the culture in which one belongs to. This is a necessary aspect in order to maintain a steady relationship with ones self. In this novel passing on traditions or a certain way of life from generation to generation is one of the most important aspects of guiding someone of the Ojibway culture, as the Ojibway people have very strong beliefs and take their culture very seriously. The people of the Ojibway culture believe that through storytelling and dreams one can realize the importance of tradition and its influence on their identity. Wagamese throughout his novel tries to teach the readers the power of ones community and traditions as he reflects a positive view of Native life. Passing on traditions is a very important aspect of guiding someone of the Ojibway culture in this novel, but to stick to a certain way of life has its challenges as everyone receives different views and opinions from t he many different people they encounter throughout their life. The authors concept in Keeper N Me is much more than just someone who provides guidance but it is how storytelling and the teaching of traditions are used to help guide. Garnet Raven, being isolated from the rest of his family, has struggled with knowing his true identity. Furthermore, the author shows not only the significance of finding a place to belong, but rather the importance of ones actions and emotions in finding a balance in life but at the same time not letting the presence of dominate views overlook the power of ones self. Passing on traditions in the Ojibway culture is a very important aspect of guiding and teaching someone. Due to the Ojibway people having such strong beliefs, they take their culture very seriously. The culture must be maintained for future generations to come as the generations is slowly being bombarded by white society. Such behaviour results in the newer generations of Ojibway people to become less interested in learning and living in the traditional Ojibway lifestyle. These younger generations of Indians need to be guided by their elders in order to keep that traditional culture alive, which creates a a string bond with ones family and ancestors, inspiring them to become guides for next generations as well. Dreams are also a guide in Ojibway culture, one of the things that elders tell you nowadays to try real hard to remember, write them down even to help you.' (Wagamese 252). It is believe that through dreams one receives visions that are sent to them by the spirit world. That v ision could be just about anything and was meant to be a sacred and private thing for the seeker. Gave a direction for their life.' (252). Dreams are believed to be important messages that provide one with direction and strength'(252). The Ojibway honour the traditional way of storytelling as a guide in which it provides a way to pass on words of wisdom and tradition from one generation to the next. Bernice Weissbourd says: Because its not only a child is inseparable from the family in which he lives, but that the lives of families are determined by the community in which they live and the cultural tradition from which they come. In Keepern me, Garnet was taken away from his family and placed in numerous different white foster homes starting from the age of three; everywhere they moved me I was the only Indian and no one ever took the time to tell me who I was, where I came from of even what the hell was going on.' (16) Because he was isolated from family and culture, he lacks the knowledge and strength he needs to be himself. Garnet, living in an all white society is unaware of what culture and from what society he actually belongs to, which is why he is in constant search for something he can call his own. Garne t does not know what its like to be Indian which initially Zammit 3 makes him feel unease and disconnected with his family and culture; growing up in all-white homes, going to all-white schools, playing with all-white kids can get a guy to thinking and reacting all-white himself after a while. I just figured I was a brown white guy' (17) so he feels that he has no choice but to become one of them, as he knows no different. Soon after that, Garnet learns the negative stereotypes about Native people when one of his foster fathers drives him to the Indian section of town showing Garnet all the drunks and homeless people, See. Those are Indians. Look at them. If you dont start shaping up and doing what youre told around here, thats what youre going to be!' ( 18) this takes away all the culture he ever had and encouraged him to not want to be Indian as he did not want to become like the people he saw. Keeper as a storyteller tries to pass the message of traditions and a way of life to guide Garnet, once he arrived in White Dog reservation. Finally, after spending some time at the reservation, Garnet was given another chance to gain confidence with the person he was. With the help of Keeper, Garnet is learning how it feels to be part of the Ojibway culture for the first time. Garnet was taught that to be a true Indian one must be a participant. To be a true Indian, one needs to learn the why of this life instead of just the how'(307). Author Richard Wagamese with the help of Bernice Weissbourds quote informs the readers of the importance of tradition and its possible influences on ones identity. The culture in which an individual grows up molds the views of ones self and the world around them, in which maintains a connection with ancestors and traditions. A necessary factor in the lives of many people today, is the feeling of belonging to a group of people with similar interests, beliefs, religion, culture, traditional ways, etc.. Such behaviour is a very important aspect in the shaping of identity. Many are taught at a young age that ethnic traditions are meant to be celebrated and carried on from one generation to the next. In this novel, one of the most significant lessons to be taught is to always Zammit 4 find balance between culture, yourself and the world; Find balance with things. Yourself. The world. Everything, on accounta change is the biggest law of nature. Fight change you fight yourself' (196). Culture is so important because its extends the inner self of a person, to members within a society, or a community. Culture can form invisible bonds between members in the community, which can result in the passing on of values and traditional ways. This also builds up a long term tradition after years and years. Culture and tradition is strengthened by the passing on from generations and provides a background to its later generations, allowing there to be gain in a sense of belonging withing people and the culture in which they share. Throughout Keeper N Me, Richard Wagamese portrays and informs the importance of tradition in the novel based on the necessary balance between life and the culture in which one belongs too, in order to maintain a steady relationship with ones self. It is made clear to the reader of the significance of passing on traditions or a certain way of life from generation to generation, and how it is one of the guiding aspects of the Ojibway culture. Wagamese throughout his novel is also tries to teach the readers the power of ones community and traditions as he reflects a positive view of Native life. Furthermore, the author shows not only the significance of finding a place to belong, but rather the importance of ones actions and emotions in finding a balance in life but at the same time not letting the presence of dominate views overlook the power of ones self.

Thursday, September 19, 2019

mike bloomberg :: essays research papers

Mike Bloomberg is running for mayor of New York City. The elections will be held Nov.6. One of the things he says that he will do if he becomes mayor is that he will have the NYPD retain command and control of school safety officers. He says that, â€Å"Schools can be used to address the issue of police-community relations. Students and police should get to know each other in non-adversarial ways through the school system.† I agree with him on this issue because many students do not like the NYPD. I think that if they would get to know the officers, they would not feel afraid or threatened by them. On Mr. Bloomberg’s web site, he says, â€Å"Guns off the Streets. New York State has some of the strongest gun control laws in the nation. But illegal guns still find their way onto our streets and into the hands of criminals.† That is the right approach to gun control. Guns should not find their way into criminal’s hands. I agree with Mr. Bloomberg on his gun control issues. Mike Bloomberg has very interesting views on public transportation. He says â€Å"To encourage the use of mass transit, I pledge to lead by example. Every day I go to City Hall during my administration I will take public transportation rather than the City-provided official car†. That is very unconventional. I think that if people want to take cars to work, they should have the right to. Also, the mayor, a public official is not expected to take mass transit. The subway could be a dangerous place and they mayor of NYC should not be taking the subway to work everyday. The forth issue which I found interesting was that

Wednesday, September 18, 2019

The Breakfast Club :: essays research papers

The Breakfast Club Five teenagers who don't' know each other spend a Saturday in detention at the suburban school library. At first they squirm, fret and pick on each other. Then after sampling some marijuana, a real encounter session gets underway. The stresses and strains of adolescence have turned their inner lives into a minefield of disappointment, anger and despair. The catalyst of the group is Bender (Judd Nelson), a rebellious working-class punk who seethes with rage and attacks his peers with sarcasm. A cigar burn on his arm is a sign of the abuse he receives at home. Andrew (Emilio Estevez) is a Varsity letterman in wrestling. He's spent most of his youth trying to measure up to his father's machismo image of him. This entails winning in athletic competition and preying upon weaker peers. He and Bender clash. Brian (Anthony Michael Hall) is an unhappy honors student who wishes he could be accepted as a person and not valued just as a brain. Upset over a poor grade in shop, Brian has contemplated suicide rather than live with the ire of his disappointed parents. Allison (Ally Sheedy) is the eccentric of the group. "My home life is unsatisfactory," she confides. Living in her own fantasy world, Allison can't really tell the difference between the truth and the lies she fabricates. These teenagers don't like or respect their parents very much. One asks: "My God, are we gonna be like our parents?" Another in the group replies: "When you grow up, your heart dies." But the storm clouds over their lives are really the result of rigid high school caste systems. Despite an inappropriate music-video sequence and a phony up-tempo finale, The Breakfast Club offers a breakthrough portrait of the pain and misunderstanding which result from the social hierarchy created by youth themselves. The lookers and the jocks are popular and can do whatever they want — except relate to those outside their social circle of winners.

Tuesday, September 17, 2019

A Conflict of Cultural Values between Generations Essay

Two generations clash in Hanif Kureishi’s short story, â€Å"My Son, The Fanatic. † Parvez, the father, is an immigrant from Pakistan while his son, Ali, was born and grew up in England. In his adopted country, the father has exerted the effort to imbibe the English values and raise his son the English way; his son, meanwhile, suddenly decides to explore his familial roots and denounce everything Western. The story plays out the generational conflict between father and son in the context of their differing cultural values. Parvez is a good father according to traditional standards as to how a father should be. He grew up in his native Pakistan but left behind his old life when he migrated to England. He is hard-working. He has devoted his life to ensuring his son’s education and supplying his needs. He measures his accomplishments according to his son’s own. With an intelligent son who is also good at sports, he feels he has done well as a father. He is also concerned about Ali all the time. When he senses something wrong with his son, he immediately tries to find out the reasons for the latter’s behavior. While a good father, however, Parvez has forgotten his roots. He has renounced his old religion. He studied in a strict Islamic school as a boy, but has since stopped following its tenets. He is a taxi driver in England now and here, taxi drivers make â€Å"jokes about the local mullahs walking around with their caps and beards. † (Kureishi, 1196). The son, Ali, while he grew up in England, feels alienated with British culture. The story suggests, however, that the alienation occurs at a certain point in his life. The father’s dilemma begins when Ali starts throwing away his old toys, games and clothes. He gives up his sports and old friends, too. It is revealed later on that the reason for these changes is because Ali has embraced Islam. Along with his conversion is the realization that there is too much freedom in the west that is more destructive than liberating to the human soul. He sums up all that is wrong with the western civilization by declaring that â€Å"the west was a sink of hypocrites, adulterers, homosexuals, drug takers and prostitutes† (Kureishi, 1198). Furthermore, he believes that Muslims are being persecuted and thus should declare war against other religions. Ali’s fanaticism causes the conflict between him and his father. The latter begins to feel that his son’s mind has been convoluted with his newfound faith. Parvez tries to understand Ali and hopes to make him realize the wrong logic in his Islamic faith by inviting him out to dinner. It only worsens the conflict, though. Ali chastises his father for drinking and gambling, forbidden acts in the religion. He expresses his disapproval at the fact that his father eats pork in spite his still being a Muslim. Parvez explains his side by telling his son that they are in England now and they have to fit in. Ali, however, could not be swayed in his strong convictions against western civilization. The problem with the west, according to him, is being allowed too much freedom. He also tells his father that he is going to stop going to school because â€Å"western education cultivates an anti-religious attitude† (Kureishi, 1198). This totally crushes the father. After all, he has invested his entire life for his son and Ali’s decision would put to waste his dreams and the long hours he has worked. The story climbs to a climax when Parvez sees his son walking on the street on the poor side of town where there are two mosques. He asks Ali to get into the car. Beside him in the front seat is Bettina, the prostitute whom Parvez has made a close friendship. While Bettina tells Ali about how his father loves him, hoping to engage him in conversation, the son only responds with anger and comments on her profession. His son’s disgust and prejudice against Bettina humiliates Parvez in front of his friend. The night after this incident, Parvez forces himself into Ali’s room while the young man is praying. He kicks and hits him. He is disappointed and desperate with both his son and himself. He thinks that if reasoning with his son would not bring him to his senses, punishing him physically would. The boy, however, does not fight back but instead turns the table upon his father by asking; â€Å"So who’s the fanatic now? † (Kureishi, 1201). The final question which Ali accuses his father with begs an analysis as to who is in the right in the conflict between the father and his son. To Parvez, living in England is an escape from a life in Pakistan which he feels constricted him. To Ali who has become a devout Muslim, everything about England is a contradiction to the tenets of his newfound faith and the country, and others that practice the western culture, is prejudice to people like him. Each one has valid reasons for his actions, but any belief or value that is imbibed and led to the extreme—into fanaticism—could be harmful and cannot be acceptable. The concept of democracy as a western ideal is positive only up to a point as much as Islam is positive until it is taken to extremes. Furthermore, Parvez could not force his own beliefs and values upon his son at his age because Ali has already reached adulthood, that time in life when a person could already think for himself, when his will cannot be controlled as easily as when he was a mere child, and when can no longer be called his father’s child. If Parvez and his son could not meet halfway because they are consumed by their respective cultural beliefs and their fanaticism, they would only be at peace with each other if they learn to accept their differences. Work Cited Kureishi, Hanif. â€Å"My Son, The Fanatic. â€Å"

Monday, September 16, 2019

Why I deserve FoR Scholarship?

Why I deserve the FOR scholarship â€Å"I'm criticized, but all your bullets ricochet â€Å", this is a line from the song Titanium by David Guests. Based on our teachers, the point of view of almost half of the people, including them, is that we don't deserve to be here, to be In this Special Science Class. They said that there are more Intelligent students In the star sections who deserve more to be called as the cream of the crop. They keep on believing that It Is only luck that brought us here, but In fact, we are here because we deserve to be.SC Is no Joke, because the entrance examinations are already a real deal – sweat and blood. So It hurts like there's a knife stabbing us In front, hearing those words coming out from them, from our teachers who should be the one to encourage us but now they're the one whiffs lowering our self-esteem. An Intelligent person has an open mind. He knows how to accept criticisms. And as a student who belongs In the special science class, we use their criticisms as a determination, a key to prove them all wrong.They shoot us down, but we get up. Special science students are special that's why we are called â€Å"special†. But what sets us apart is the curriculum itself. I mean, we are trained to be scientists and mathematicians of the batch. It's like our final training ground for college thus making us â€Å"special†. Being an SC student is not that easy. Why? Because it requires more effort. We must pay extra time to our studies and extracurricular activities as well. Besides, our teachers expect us to be above the regular students.We are considered and trained to be the best of the best, the cream of the crop so that the moment we enter college, we're all armored. And eventually after college, we are the ones who are expected to be the leaders. Not just with Math and Science, but also with our government too. We are learning more and e are learning in the hard yet the best way to be a good leader so meday. This class brings out the best in us. It lets us see the best that we can be.Being a student of SC is not only being the best in whatever field you have chosen to, but being the best student and citizen for the country. It's something special. It is something rewarding. And it is a responsibility. Why I deserve FOR Scholarship? By Janice-Serrate people, including them, is that we don't deserve to be here, to be in this Special Science Class. They said that there are more intelligent students in the star sections t is only luck that brought us here, but in fact, we are here because we deserve to be.SC is no Joke, because the entrance examinations are already a real deal – sweat and blood. So it hurts like there's a knife stabbing us in front, hearing those words now they're the one who's lowering our self-esteem. An intelligent person has an open mind. He knows how to accept criticisms. And as a student who belongs in the Special Science Class, we use their criticisms a s a determination, a key to prove them eventually after college, we are the ones who are expected to be the leaders. Not Just

Sunday, September 15, 2019

Nuclear Power As A Green Energy Source Environmental Sciences Essay

In today ‘s society, atomic energy is a high demanded beginning of energy. It provides electricity to families and concerns with electricity expeditiously for it to be able to run. It is viewed by assorted political and non political groups as risky, menace to climate alteration such as planetary heating, and non a sustainable beginning of energy. Their position of bring forthing electricity and other beginnings energy is to be produced from renewable beginnings such as air current turbines and solar power. Many research workers argue that the menace to environment from the production of atomic energy is non the instance and in fact less harmful to the Earth and produces less nursery gases ( Dawson 2003, 34 ) , some like to see that atomic energy has a nothing C emanation. Nuclear energy is viewed as a cost effectual manner of bring forthing electricity compared to char firing which was seen to be expensive and immense menace to the environment. 1.1 Purpose The intent of this study is to see whether or non atomic power can so be seen as a green and sustainable green beginning of energy. 1.2 Scope This study considers what atomic power is, the hereafter energy demand in relation to planetary heating, the advantages of atomic energy, disadvantages of atomic energy such as the effects of the environment, whether it can be seen as a green solution in bring forthing energy, and a sustainable beginning of energy.1.3 Beginnings and MethodsInformation was collected from books, scholarly journal articles, green peace and greenies internet web site.Nuclear PowerNuclear power is energy that is produced for the intent of turn outing electricity for domestic, industrial, and other industry usage ( Hodgson 1999, 51 ) . The rhythm of bring forthing energy involves mining the U ores, change overing for fuel, enrichment, fiction, the production of a power works, operating, uranium processing, and waste disposal ( Fthenakis and Kim 2006, 2552 ; Lillington 2009, 94 ) . It is made up of a stuff called U which goes through a figure of procedures until is it stacked inside fuel rods. These fuel ro ds are so used to bring forth heat and steam which allows the atomic reactor to bring forth energy ( Fthenakis and Kim 2006, 2552 ) . Nuclear power is seen as a risky procedure of bring forthing electricity ( Hultman 2008, 41 ; Greenpeace. 2010 ; The Greens 2010 ) . Others view as a manner of scheme to cut down nursery gases ( Pasztor 1991, 98 ) and supplying economic stableness ( Green 2008, 15 ) . As mentioned before, environmental groups such as Greenpeace and political parties for illustration the Australian Greens party have fought against administrations in the affair of atomic power and have impeaching them of being the chief job for planetary heating. However society to a great extent relies on atomic power and sees this as a demand or merely a necessity for them to utilize in their day-to-day lives. Nuclear power is easy to bring forth, it can supply a big supply of electricity atomic power and sees this as a demand or merely a necessity for them to utilize in their day-to- day lives. Nuclear power is easy to bring forth, it can supply a big supply of electricity atomic power and sees this as a demand or merely a necessity for them to utilize in their day-to-day lives. Nuclear power is easy to bring forth ; it can supply a big supply of electricity, and is really efficient if supplying the demand for electricity ( Sovacool 2008, 3 ) . The usage of renewable beginnings of energy from solar and air current would non be plenty to supply energy to a house. In fact it can non power two 60 Ws light bulbs for a whole twenty-four hours.Future Energy DemandNuclear power is considered to be a future energy demand in footings of C emanations which is related to planetary heating ( Pasztor 1991, 105 ; Kessides 2009, 323 ) . With the high demand for electricity to better life criterions, many states are still building and runing atomic workss to bring forth atomic energy ( Pasztor 1991, 105 ; Green 2008, 15 ; Hodgson 1999, 119 ) . This is due to increase of populat ion, a rise in incomes in states which develop increases the energy demand. During 2008, the United States had approved another 30 reactors to be built ( Green 2008, 15 ) . States such as Germany, France, and Japan have made investings to better their processing activities in which this will ensue in lower measures of Pu and U needed to bring forth atomic power ( Pasztor 1991, 103 ) . As of 2005, there were 20 states that depended on atomic energy for the usage of electricity. It is seen as a reliable beginning of energy that has no emanation of C. This besides includes the phase during the processing with fossil fuels ( Lorenzini 2005, 33 ) . In the context of planetary heating, research conducted by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology ( MIT ) show that atomic power should be retained because it is seen as a production of energy that is carbon free ( Dawson 2003, 34 ) .AdvantagesLooking at the component Uranium, one lb of it contains the same energy of one 1000000s of coal ( Lorenzini 2005, 33 ) . This means less excavation activity for Uranium and necessitating less energy. It is seen as been a low C emitter, harmonizing to Pasztor ( 1991, 98 ) it â€Å" can be considered as an alternate beginning of energy in nursery gas decrease schemes † . During the production of atomic energy it is show that little sums of air pollution along with acidic gases are created during the burning phase of the fossil fuels ( Pasztor 1991, 98 ) . It which this can be a better option for bring forthing electricity so coal. However harmonizing to Mortimer ( 1991, 76 ) â€Å" atomic power is found to offer less than its advocators imply. This is when it ‘s looked more into it. Again we can besides take into history Jan Murray who represented the Uranium Institute who supports the fact the C dioxide is non produced by atomic power ( Mortimer 1991, 76 ) . The sustainable development committee references that the production of atomic energy can be seen as a low C emanation ( Kennedy 2007, 3710 ) . Many administrations are presently puting in improved atomic energy production which can be seen as a positive position, in which this will take to a lessening in C emanation ( Kennedy 2007, 3710 ) . Constructing more atomic workss can see a decrease of gas ingestion. At times when there is a deficit, big industries can take advantage of the decrease of gas for their benefit. This means a low impact on the environment, this leads to salvaging energy and necessitating less excavation, conveyance, and geographic expedition ( Kennedy 2007, 3711 ) . When it comes to atomic waste, the coal waste is seen to be more risky. It includes been risky to the environment and to our wellness. However atomic power is less harmful and better for the environment ( Lorenzini 2005, 34 ) .DisadvantagesFor atomic power to be produced, foremost a atomic station demands to be constructed. Constructing requires concrete, aluminum, steel, Diesel to run machinery, and Cu. In which they do necessitate a big sum of it ( Fthenakis and Kim 2007, 2553 ) . The stuffs required for the building is gathered from chiefly mining activities. In which it is seen that excavation does play a function in environmental pollution and emanation of nursery gases ( Kennedy 2007, 3711 ) . As from 2006 cost analysis study, it is estimated to be 2.8 billion lbs to build a works ( Kennedy 2007, 3708 ) . The usage of Uranium to fuel the atomic power works are seen as extremely radioactive, fuel is either fain or reprocessed in storage casks or in pools. However the United States as holding the bulk of bloomerss in the universe ( ) , it does non see recycling fuels. Some claim to hold less emanation and non a subscriber to planetary heating ( Mortimer 1991, 76 ) . However during the enrichment, operation, and production phases of the atomic rhythm. It requires a batch of energy in order for the phases to map ( Fthenakis and Kim 2007, 2553 ) . The terminal of the life rhythm is s till accounted for nursery pollution. All power Stationss and industries that relate to it hold an consequence on the environment ( Hodgson 1999, 117 ) . These effects are seen as a immense impact on our wellness and landscape that is used for mining which can take to destruction to the land ( Hodgson 1991, 119 ) . As mentioned before, we produce more energy to better our life, but pollution is produced during the rhythm of the atomic power which brings our life of standard down ( Hodgson 1991, 119 ) . Coevals of atomic power green goodss waste which is unsafe and seen as a planetary job. Normally wastes are buried belowground and has a mass consequence to the Earth. Care is non normally taken ( Hodgson 1991, 123 ) in which the consequence of radiation pollution can happen.6.1 Chernobyl and Three Mile IslandLooking at the Chernobyl and the Three Mile Island incident ( Greenpeace International 2010 ) these incidents lead a immense taint to the H2O supply and cause of deceases in Ukra ine due to radioactive pollution. The people of Ukraine have besides suffered from birth defects and other cancerous unwellness due to the proper attention non taken into topographic point ( Adamantiades and Kessides 2009, 5160 ) .Green EnergyThe inquiry is raised earlier one is whether atomic power can be seen as green beginning of energy. The universe has witnessed tragic incidents such as the Chernobyl and Hiroshima in which atomic power had made a immense consequence to the Earth ( Tilson 1996, 63 ; Damian 1992, 597 ) . To some certain countries, it can be considered as a green beginning of energy. Adamantiades and Kessides ( 2009, 5151 ) reference that atomic power has shown that it can avoid effects of fossil fuel pollutants. Extinguishing coal and replacing with U would set less injury to the environment and lower the nursery gas emanations. The more atomic power used to bring forth energy can assist to cut down the usage of such minerals such as brown coal, difficult coal, a nd oil. As these minerals are harmful for the environment it would intend less used in exchange for atomic power. Lorenzini references that atomic power is better for the environment and wellness compared to other minerals such as coal ( Lorenzini 2005, 34 ) . However political groups such as The Australian Greens Party argue that atomic power is non a solution to cut downing nursery gas emanations ( The Aussie Greens 2010 ) . Besides Greenpeace international claims that the usage of atomic power is a hazard to humanity and the environment ( Greenpeace International 2010 ) but Lorenzini ( 2005, 38 ) argues that the ends of atomic power is ease the force per unit area on land usage along with the environmental jobs that ‘s occur and extinguish emanations that contribute to climate alteration and human wellness issues. The argument on whether atomic power is green is hard to reply as the positives positions are equal to the negative positions.Sustainable EnergyThe inquiry whethe r atomic power can be seen as sustainable beginning of energy has been. As Lorenzini references ( 2005, 36 ) â€Å" sustainability of atomic power depends on an equal attack to atomic waste † . This is frequently hard due to the troubles in looking for a suited site for waste to be deposed. However the atomic industry has faced this job of waste disposal on whether it should disposed or reprocessed ( Adamantiades and Kessides 2009, 5166 ) . Nuclear waste is either placed in ceramic or glass containers and so taken to an appropriate country for disposal. Due to the Hazardous radiation, Uranium needs to be disposed directly after electricity is produced to in order to hold a less consequence on the environment ( Greenpeace 2010 ) . This is five old ages after the power works has cooled down the waste in its pool in order to forestall it from runing down. Nuclear power can seen as non been sustainable, due to the fact that there is no manner safe manner of disposing it.DecisionT o reason this study, we have chiefly identified the advantages and disadvantages of atomic power in today ‘s society. A batch of betterments have been made on atomic power in footings of its public presentation and injury to the environment. We can see that atomic energy is a measure to been green and is replacing usage of coal to supply electricity. However atomic power is non a sustainable beginning of energy. As it is hard to happen storage topographic points and the consequence it has on the environment one time its transferred for chilling. Many groups such as The Australian Greens Party and Greenpeace International are wholly against this step and see this as load to the environment and to our wellness. But one inquiry that is raised is that why that is these groups target atomic power when other beginnings of generators such as coal are to a great extent used to supply electricity. Overall atomic power is a beginning of energy that we to a great extent depend on ( Sovac ool 2008, 2 ) . Renewable beginnings of energy from solar and weave demand to be improved in order to supply the needed sum of electricity that a family would necessitate.

Pestle, Porter and SWOT analysis of Lukoil Essay

LUKOIL, a vertically integrated oil company, and carries out exploration, acquisition, integration and subsequent efficient development of oil and gas fields outside the Russian Federation to facilitate the transformation of LUKOIL into a transnational energy corporation. LUKOIL operates in 25 countries (the most major of them are Russia, Azerbaijan, USA, Georgia, Turkey and Czech Republic). Net income in 2013 is $3.105 billion. Basic earnings per share – $4.11. The Company’s 2012 net income rose by 6.2% and reached record $11,004 billion. EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxation, depreciation and amortization) rose by 1.7% and reached $18,915 billion. Sales revenues were $139,171 billion (+4.1% y-o-y). In 2013 Forbes estimated LUKOIL as #43 in Sales, #34 in Profit, #254 in Assets, #139 in Market value. According to these data we can assume, that LUKOIL is successful Russian company with a lot of strengths, like good prospects regarding financial indicators. And fortu nately, it doesn ´t need any financing. Usually, the company invests in different projects regarding environmental protection and  employee ´s support. 2. Mission and Vision Mission: â€Å"The Company’s mission consists in increasing shareholder value through the exploration and production of hydrocarbons outside Russia.† My vision of the situation is that company wants to be a reliable supplier of hydrocarbons on the international market. Moreover, Lukoil has a purpose to support economic growth and social stability in long-term prospects. Thus, it has some main aims such as to achieve reputation of a reliable and dependable hydrocarbon supplier in the world; to deliver high-quality petroleum products to end-users; to ensure long-term sustainable growth; to reach leading position on the market; My formulation of the mission: Lukoil as a company in the oil and gas industry using natural energy recourses is trying to be a leader in the international market by reducing costs, increasing operations and stabling social aspects. Vision: â€Å"The company wants to be world’s leader in oil and gas sector by first-class services to our customers, effective HR policy, reliable and positive image of the company, effective environmental policy, optimization of the operational efficiency, decrease of the operational costs, sustain high-profit level.† In conclusion, company’s mission determines a purpose within the organization; provides standards for allocating organizational resources; establishes a general organizational climate; shows purpose and direction. Consequently, mission and vision are clear and give a lot of advantage. 3. Macro-environment (PESTLE) At the beginning of this part, it is necessary to mention some relevant facts: Population in Russia: 139mln Area: 17mln sq. km Time zones: GMT +2 to +11 9th largest economy in the world in terms of GDP, reaching USD 2014,8 bn 2013 Exports and Imports exceed 50% GDP Highest GDP per capita among BRICS countries Winter Olympic Games 2014 in Sochi 2012 and FIFA World Cup 2018 are coming 1. GDP Figure 2.1 Real GDP As we can see on the Figure 2.1 Real GDP has a tendency to grow up. Moreover, the present value of Real GDP is about 2014.8 USD billion which is the highest point during the history. Real GDP had been increased up to more than 6% in comparison with the previous period Contemporary situation in economy, especially in Real GDP, shows the opportunity for a company to increase production, because higher GDP means higher consumer expenditures; in turn, it is an alleviating competitive pressure within industry, then it’s the potential for expansion. As we can see GDP is constantly growing that means an opportunity to have higher revenues for LUKOIL Company because people have a higher profits and respectively higher consumer expenditures. 2. Interest rate The interest rate in Russia was last recorded at 5.50 percent. Interest Rate in Russia is reported by the Central Bank of Russia. It is quite high interest rate in comparison with for instance European countries. The average interest rate in Europe is 0.25%. For LUKOIL it is a threat of decreasing the company’s sales, because during high interest rate potential consumers tend to spend less (borrowings become more expensive). Therefore the consumer purchasing power is quite low and company’s sales will be decreased. Figure 2.2 Russia interest rate 3. Inflation rate Figure 2.4 Russia inflation rate Figure 2.5 Petroleum price RUB per liter As we can see Figure 2.4 and Figure 2.5, the oil price and rate of inflation  are connected directly: when oil price goes up, the inflation follows in the same direction. We can explain it by that the oil is the major input in economy (oil is used for manufacturing and transportation). The inflation rate in Russia was recorded at 6.30 percent in October of 2013. It has a positive impact on Oil and Gas industry. LUKOIL can estimate future profit more accurate and eliminate several risks which effected by the oil price and inflation rate. 4. Unemployment rate Figure 2.5 Russia unemployment rate At the moment the rate is 5,5%. And the tendency has a declining character. Thus it could be opportunity to find high-qualified employees. There is a competition on a labor market. 5. Reservoirs of oil Russia is the first country in the world in crude oil production. Its share is 12%. This indicator makes the country attractive for the investors. Consequently, LUKOIL could use positive investment climate of Russia as the company’s benefit. 6. Taxes Nowadays there are three main taxes which have influence on economic in Russia: a) Corporate tax rate – 20% b) Personal income tax rate – 13% c) Sales tax rate – 18% Accordingly to these indicators the corporate tax rate is quite low in comparison with Japan – 38,01%, United Arab Emirates – 55%, US – 35%. Therefore, it is opportunity to increase a profit (low taxes increase net profit). We are analyzing oil and gas industry in Russia. Fortunately most of deposits are situated in cold geographical areas like Tyumen Region, called Extreme North or Far North. Government gives a lot of benefits like people who work there are used to receive an extra grade of payment, referred to as the â€Å"Northern Bonus†, as well as other benefits, including extra vacation, extra disability benefits, extra retirement benefits, and housing benefits. LUKOIL won’t increase outflow of money into pension funds  etc. 4. Technological factors (PESTLE) New technologies are an important competitive advantage of LUKOIL Group. Key technological aspects: 1. The company conducts R&D to develop new technologies and upgrade the existing ones. 2. Cooperation with national projects is actively developing, including the Skolkovo innovation project and the RUSNANO Corporation. 3. Great attention is paid to developing information technologies and improving business processes. 4. The total financing of scientific and technical works in 2012 amounted to US$ 150 million. It is opportunity to use own technology and ability to exclude costs for using technologies from elsewhere. 5. Environmental factors (PESTLE) Waste disposal Russia drowns in 60 million tons of garbage a year. It is serious problem in waste disposal issue. Today, only 11% of the whole volume is recycled. Unfortunately, it is substantial evidence of contemporary problem and the threat for environment. LUKOIL uses chemicals for production, which could be statutory restrictions by the government for environmental protection. It is the threat for company of activities’ restriction. Pollution Oil and Gas industry damages nature by pollution. Many risks occur like spilling of oil into the sea or into the ocean. In this case LUKOIL will pay damage to nature and spoil its reputation. Consequently, LUKOIL should take into account all risks and try to avoid them. Climate There is the dominance of the continental climate on the territory of the country. Russia faced to one serious problem during springs. It is flood. For oil industry it could be a relevant threat because it directly depends on transportation, for instance if roads are damaged it is becoming complicated to transport oil to different regions. 6. Political factors (PESTLE) Strictly speaking, two of the most dangerous threats are the high level of corruption and terrorism. High level of corruption Russia is ranked 127th out of 175 countries in Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index in 2013. This score indicates the perceived level of public sector corruption in a country or territory. Terrorism There is a terrorist war aimed at destabilizing Russia politically and economically. Few weeks ago there was the 3rd terrorist attack in Volgograd during last 2 months. Membership in World Trade Organization In August 2012, Russia officially became a World Trade Organization member. Moreover, European Union contributes half of Russia trade flows. It is opportunity of simplified international market access with the purpose of trade and it is opportunity of hiring professional and administrative staff on fixed term contracts. Index of Economic Freedom Index of Economic Freedom in Russia is 51.3 out of 100 and it ranked as mostly unfree. These ranking means that the country is not attractive to do business and indicates a low possibility of obtaining investment. Thus, it is a threat for LUKOIL, it will be difficult to attract foreign investors. Protection of property rights It is an opportunity to protect LUKOIL’s innovations and to get patent. 7. Legal factors (PESTLE) The following laws of the Russian Federation form the main legal framework of the oil and gas industry: Constitution of the Russian Federation. Federal Law On Subsoil (Subsoil Law). Federal Law On Gas Supply in the Russian Federation (Gas Supply Law). Federal Law On Natural Monopolies. Federal Law On the Continental Shelf of the Russian Federation. Federal Law On Energy Saving and Energy Efficiency. Federal Law On Production Sharing Agreements. The following federal laws are also relevant to the legal framework of the natural resources industry of the Russian Federation: The Codes of the Russian Federation, including the Civil Code, Land Code, Water Code, Forest Code, Tax Code, Code on Administrative Violations and Criminal Code. Federal Law on Environmental Protection. Federal Law on Ecological Expertise. Supreme Council Regulations on the Procedure of Enactment of the Provisions on the Procedure of Licensing of the Subsoil Use of 1992 (Subsoil Use Licensing Regulations). The fundamental rights that are guaranteed to each Russian citizen are: All people shall be equal before the law and court. The State shall guarantee the equality of rights and freedoms of man and citizen, regardless of sex, race, nationality, language, origin, property and official status, place of residence, religion, convictions, membership of public associations, and also of other circumstances. All forms of limitations of human rights on social, racial, national, linguistic or religious grounds shall be banned. Man and woman shall enjoy equal rights and freedoms and have equal possibilities to exercise them. That means that Lukoil should take into account all this rights and keep it in mind when hiring the employees. 8. Socio-cultural factors (PESTLE) Age structure: 0-14 years: 15.7% (male 11,498,268/female 10,890,853) 15-24 years: 12.4% (male 9,031,057/female 8,662,557) 25-54 years: 45.8% (male 31,894,116/female 33,432,996) 55-64 years: 13.1% (male 7,926,184/female 10,711,347) 65 years and over: 13% (male 5,622,464/female 12,847,828) Most of population is in â€Å"capable of working† age. There is a competition on labor market. It is an opportunity to find employees corresponded to the standards of the company. Main religion: Christianity No requirement in the organization of labor. Thus, it is opportunity for LUKOIL to organize manufacture easily. High level of education Opportunity to attract well-qualified personnel. 9. Porter’s 5 Forces 1. Threat of New Entrants (Low) The LUKOIL is protected by high barriers to entry. Therefore the threat of new entrants is very low Huge amounts of capital expenditure are needed to perform the activities, for example the cost of refinery is almost $7 billion, the price of petrol station is $600 000. Large amounts of fixed are require for the development of oil fields and the installation of production facilities Costs for entering the industry: drilling costs, oilfield services, skilled labor, scientific research, materials and energy Only companies that operate economies of scale can survive, for example LUKOIL has been searching for oil since 1991. They invest a huge amount in up-to-date technologies making it difficult for new entrants to compete. Russia allows only national companies (or foreign companies in partnership with the national company) to exploit oil reservoirs, because it is owned by the state. It is barrier to entry. 2. Power of Suppliers (High) There are more then 100 suppliers in Russia; OAO â€Å"Gaztrubinvest†, TOO â€Å"KST Steel†, OAO â€Å"Severstal† are some of them. But their products are unique: tubular products, electric centrifugal pumps, oil cable, spurt steel framework. What gives them high bargaining power to dictate conditions. Moreover there are no substitutes, because the equipment needed for oil industry is special and impossible to replace. 3. Power of Buyers (Low) The main buyers are government and car owners. Product differentiation is low and customers don’t have opportunity to choose, only to buy. The market share of LUKOIL is almost 17% and it has contracts with government, because  they have a big chain of petrol stations. Consumers’ willingness to pay is the only power buyers have. Only very large buyers of oil such as big countries like US may influence oil price. Overall the buyer power is low 4. Threat of Substitutes (Low) At the moment customers can not switch from using oil and gas for other sources of energy. Only some European countries introduced renewable sources of energy instead of gas and oil. But there are many alternatives of energy: coal, solar, and wind power. Instead of this fact, we notice the demand for oil increases every year and there is no chance of decreasing in consumption. 5. Industry Rivalry (High) LUKOIL has 4 serious competitors: Rosneft (22% share of market), TNK-BP (14%), Surgutneftegaz (12%), Gazprom neft (6%). Even though there is a very strong rate of growth in oil and gas sector the rivalry remain small due to large switching costs, required investments for a new entrance, size of competitors, and political barriers. There is no place for small companies because of few market leaders. Also there is no possibility that competitors will offer a lower price. LUKOIL is second company that operates in Russia. The leader is Rosneft and its main competitor‎. LUKOIL has 17% share of Russian market, Rosneft 22% respectively. 10. SWOT analysis Strengths Weaknesses – 1st among the largest private oil and gas companies in the world. – 1.3% oil reserves of total reserves of oil worldwide – and second in terms of volume proven hydrocarbons reserves – about 2% of total global reserves; – Increase in oil index price in the world. – High entry barriers in the market, which eliminates small competitors. – Very sufficient technology of research and exploration. – Geographical business diversification (30 countries). – Large amount of oil reserves(17%) – Superior oil related technology. – Fully vertical and horizontal integrated. – Well supported by Russian government. – Constant increase in demand for gas and oil in Russia. – Constant research and innovation. – Production costs are relatively high compared with levels achieved by its main competitors. – The company’s communication both inside and outside is slow and bureaucratic. – Cost of environmental hazards. Opportunities Threats – Increase in oil and gas demand in Russia. – New exploration projects. – Investment into new businesses. – Iraq oil project. – Corruption. – Terrorism. – Floods. – Decrease sales (high interest rate). – Competition on the market Internal analysis Revenue $139.2 billion Employees 150.000 Recommendations Despite having a relatively good position in the regional market of Central and Eastern Europe, LUKOIL faces strong competition. In this context, LUKOIL should increase its market share through an offensive strategy of territorial expansion and to attract new customer segments. In addition, LUKOIL should ensure implementation of new technologies for modern and efficient production in terms of cost and continues its efforts to improve product quality and competitiveness, in order to meet international standards, including API and ACEA. Another important trend is the application of marketing strategies on the downstream, taking into account  the factors influencing consumer choice of stations: location, value for money, image, service, the existence of ancillary services. These strategies are reflected in the mix of marketing, in which both product and promotion play a central role.

Saturday, September 14, 2019

Conflicts and Communication Essay

Communication is a very key role in any type of relationship whether it be business, personal or intimate. When we enter into any type of relationship one needs to have the skills to communicate effectively and make sure that the complete message gets portrayed to the receiver. When one does not communicate effectively, the result causes interpersonal conflict. In the movie â€Å"Hitch† it involves two individuals, Will Smith and Eva Mendes, who meet and begin to enter into the beginning stages of a relationship. There is certainly an attraction, both physically and due to a common interest in things. Through hesitation and Mendes declining Smith numerous times, she finally agrees to go out with him and it turns out that they seem to be quite compatible. Through their friendship they begin to develop an intimate relationship with one another. Through this whole process Mendes has been very open and honest about things that are important to her and things that are private to her as well. It seems that Smith is doing the same thing, however it turns out that he is withholding very important information that should be shared with her. The main interpersonal conflict in this movie would be due to Smith not communicating to Mendes that he is the â€Å"Date Doctor†. Mendes has a major issue with this because she had a very good friend who was dumped and she placed the blame on Smith for this situation When she finds out what his true profession is, she become irate and storms off and refuses to speak to him or listen him. This instance caused an instant dissolution of their relationship. There was an issue, but instead of communicating it out loud or discussing it, quite the opposite happened. In our text, Sole states that, â€Å"Resentments, suspicions and other problems occur when people do not communicate or behave in ways that are consistent with the relationship the other person things has been established, and people tend to pay the most attention and to respond forcefully when the communication does not match their expectations† (Sole, 2011). Towards the end of the movie, they finally are able to communicate to each other on the same level and they work things out. In my opinion, all tension could have been resolved and the relationship could have been restored from the get-go if Smith and Mendes would have truly communicated and would have been completely honest and transparent about their lives and the things that they do and that they are involved in. Obviously, it is easier said than done. Another thing that should have been avoided would be assuming things that are really not true. â€Å"The single biggest problem with communication is the illusion that it has taken place† (George Bernard Shaw). This quote really sums up the main point and resolution to problems and issues with intrapersonal communication. Never be so blinded by the things that you are hiding from individuals you are developing relationships with and never assume that they understand things you, as the speaker, have not completely portrayed.

Friday, September 13, 2019

Eugenics and the Horrors of Genocide in Nazi Germany Essay - 1

Eugenics and the Horrors of Genocide in Nazi Germany - Essay Example In the 1870s industrialization began to create a thriving economy in Germany, but a wide gap between wealth created a society in which was exacerbated by a lack of infrastructure. The population was growing at a rate that was not in step with the provisions that were available at a social level. Mortality rates began to skyrocket and the development of a definable issue meant that solutions would soon also emerge. Medical ‘advances’ began to define the meaning of human existence, often through the delusions of prejudiced theories that supported an idea that there were a human race and a series of sub-human races. During the time between the 1870s and the 1930s, a relationship had developed between American eugenics experts and German scientists with the same goals. In the 1930s, however, the relationship became strained. The racism that developed in Nazi Germany involving those of an ethnic Jewish background became an issue of contention and the American scientists were not interested in the idea that being Jewish meant being inferior. One of the clear signs that the racism was infecting the society of Germany is that of the Nuremberg laws which stated that those with Jewish heritage in their background would not be allowed to have citizenship. Decrees began to emerge that were further and further limiting the rights of those with ethnic Jewish ancestry, creating a prejudicial climate that began to define the nature of the beliefs as being centered on the heritage that broke the code of acceptable genetics which was growing in the nation.

Thursday, September 12, 2019

Summarize employment, labor, and anti-discrimination law Essay - 1

Summarize employment, labor, and anti-discrimination law - Essay Example in regard to the general employees. This Act establishes the least wage, overtime pay, child-labor principles, and recordkeeping factors that affect both the part-time and full-time workers. The Act comprises of workers in federal, local governments, private sector, and the state (Thompson, 2012). In the United States, the department of labor enforces and administers this Act while at the same time focusing on the employees in the private sector, federal employees, Tennessee Valley Authority and the United States Postal Services among others. The Fair Labor Standards Act is enforced by the United States Congress for legislative employees and the United States Office of Personnel Management for employees in the executive branch. There are other federal laws interconnected with the Fair Labor Standards Act. They include the Equal Pay Act (EPA), civil rights act, Age Discrimination Employment Act, Americans with Disabilities Act, the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act, and the Rehabilitation Act. In the United States, all these acts are enforced by a board known as the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Furthermore, this commission also provides a coordination standard for the federal laws, practices, and regulations. According to this context, the worker is a nonexempt worker at an elegant paper mill company. The Federal Labor Standards Act states that every worker should receive a minimum wage of up to $7.25 per hour of overpay (Thompson, 2012). The nonexempt workers must be paid for any overtime work at a rate of more than one and one and half times their rates of pay, especially after 40 hours of work in a week. In this circumstance, the employee worked for four consecutive weeks. The working hours totaled to forty-five, forty-two, thirty-nine, and thirty-one hours respectively. Therefore, this employee worked for eight hours of overtime pay during the four week period (U.S

Wednesday, September 11, 2019

World History 1 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

World History 1 - Essay Example In the civilized society, the role of the individual still might be deemed important, but not in the same close-connection sort of way. In terms of the educational area, one of the hallmarks of civilization is its ability to pass on its legacy through literature. Nomadic peoples tended to provide oral traditions and stories, but it wasn't until these became written down that society advanced to what might be called a civilized state. Through education in general, and literacy in particular, civilization developed into its modern form. Thirdly, there is a distinct difference between the commercial activities of hunter/gatherer tribes and civilized society. For nomadic tribes, goods were acquired primarily for consumption. Excess items could be traded with other groups, but the primary goal was meeting daily need. Modern civilization is characterized by elaborate trading patterns that have no equal in the hunter/gatherer world. Finally, the political difference is dramatic. While hunte r/gatherers had political rank or pecking order, it consisted primarily of who was strong enough to lead the tribe; and conducted through a fairly straightforward means of combat or test of skills.

Tuesday, September 10, 2019

The Historical Influences in the Architectural Design of the Essay

The Historical Influences in the Architectural Design of the Westminster Abbey - Essay Example The exterior is as much remarkable as its interior. The dominant gothic architectural design - its towering pillars, towers and stained glass, takes its patrons and visitors back to the English medieval times. The prestige of Westminster Abbey’s architectural design cannot be separated from the historical events that moulded it to its present reputation. From the its foundation as an abbey by King Edward the Confessor in 1052 to its glory days as a gothic church under the initiative of King Henry III in 1245, Westminster Abbey owes its existence to the religious passion of its patrons. Given the context, this paper focuses on the historical events that led to the key developments of what is the Westminster Abbey today. By expounding on the topic, a historical methodology could not only give light to the origins of the church, but it could also relate historical context with architectural design and style. This paper is thus intended to explain Westminster Abbey’s rich a rchitectural history. The utilization of secondary sources such as books and journal articles, together with ample photo documentation, are used in order to accomplish this paper’s purpose. ... It then tackles the entrance of the 12th century and the important contributions of King Henry III to the creation of a magnificent gothic church at England’s capital. The second portion deals with the church’s architecture. An analysis of the exterior and interior aspects of Westminster Abbey is conducted by streamlining the various designs and styles, which produced the outcome. Such analysis is then related to the historical context of the church’s formative years in order to produce a conclusive account of architectural history. The Abbey in its Formative Years in the 11th and 12th Century The 11th century was included in the 3-century span of the Central Middle Ages, from 1000-1300, where the disintegration of the strong Roman Empire was realized in the Early Middle Ages. During that century, a direct by-product of the previous years caused the apparent struggle between the Holy Roman Empire and the Papacy in Rome, not to mention the autonomy instituted by t he Eastern Orthodox Church in the Byzantine Empire (Bennett and Hollister, xv & 266). On a political standpoint, it was clear that religious strife that would establish dominance over Europe was as important as the clash of kingdoms and empires. As religious monarchy flourished in the name of the propagation of a certain religious denomination, independent nation states began to emerge as well. England was well underway in line with a monarchical leadership. The sacred monarchy carried by religious kingdoms in the Early Middle Ages evolved into a bureaucratic monarchy in the Central Middle Ages. Royal administration with a systematic distribution of powers was the one that England had adopted in the 11th century (Bennett and Hollister, 266). Though a secular state, the influence of the church

Monday, September 9, 2019

Essential drug list Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Essential drug list - Essay Example etardation† and claims that the â€Å"health of all peoples is fundamental to the attainment of peace and security and is dependent upon the fullest co-operation of individuals and States†1. To become a member of the WHO a state, which is already a member of United Nations, should accept its Constitution. The other countries can become a member in condition that their application has been approved by a World Health Assembly. Now there are 193 member states in the WHO. The WHO activities in the sphere of pharmaceutical preparations are mainly based on the WHO medicines strategy that was adopted on the fifty-fourth World Health Assemble on 21st of May 20012. This strategy is directed on assistance to governments in providing appropriate life and healthcare protection and improvement through liquidation of the huge difference between the appropriate medicines usage possibilities and reality, thus for millions of people such medicines are absent, unaffordable, unsafe, of bed quality or used in the wrong way. In 1977 the WHO provided a guideline for all national governments, which is called Model List of Essentials Medicines. Its main objective is to ensure governments that they have in stock an inventory of medicines necessary to provide a sufficient healthcare. The WHO defines essential medicines as â€Å"those that satisfy the priority healthcare needs of the population; they should therefore be available at all times in adequate amounts and in appropriate dosage forms, at a price the community can

Sunday, September 8, 2019

Mega Banks vs. Community Banks Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Mega Banks vs. Community Banks - Essay Example They play a crucial role in development of economy across length and breadth of the US. They remain very important in small-business sector and agricultural lending. The paper aims to explore the contrasting roles played by Community banks and large banks in the national economy and the regulatory burden that â€Å"Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010† is likely to put on them impacting their performance in the national economy. Small Business Lending Small businesses account for a huge share of total economic output and employment. Small business with fewer than 500 employees, account for more than 50 percent of private sector employment and output. Community banks are better placed in making loans to small businesses. Small bank officials can review the small business loan applications taking local perspectives and the nature of business. That is usually not possible for large banks as they do not have so much autonomy at local levels and it is n ot feasible for the large banks to review the myriads of small business applications that closely. Another advantage with community banks to deal with small business loans is that often it is required to maintain a close relationship with the borrower. It is possible for community banks to closely monitor the borrower, sitting locally, over the course of the loan; the bank needs to maintain a close knit long-term relationship with the firm. Large banks find it inefficient and unfeasible to maintain such close relationship with small businesses. Large banks will rely on phone and mail to communicate with small clients in contrast to community banks who will often have face-to-face meetings. That is to say community banks have their own niche area to cater to where large banks do not have access (Keeton, 2004 p.24) Loans on Nonresidential Real Estate by Community Banks Community banks drive advantage in extending loans backed by nonresidential real estate and they account for over 60 percent of all loans of $100,000 or less and over 40 percent of all nonresidential real estate loans of $1 million or less. Community banks earn higher rates of return on small business loans than large banks (Keeton, 2004 p.26) Farm Lending By virtue of having located at the rural areas, Community banks are important farm lenders. They account for 65 percent of all farm real estate loans; particularly, smaller the amount of loan more are the chances of that being extended by community banks. Large banks are not interested in serving such small farm loans. Community banks are more risk takers while lending to small businesses in contrast to large banks that depend upon neat credit history of the client (Keeton, 2004 p.26). Retail Deposit Services Community banks are more eager to provide personalized services to depositors of moderate to low wealth holders; the reason being that community banks are more dependent on small depositors for their funds requirement where large banks are not found to chase small depositors (Keeton, 2004 p.27). Profitability Earnings on average assets for last 7 years with reference to large and community banks have been reported in the following table. Banks 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 March-2012 Over $ 50 billion 1.41 0.92 0.18 -0.07 0.77 0.94 1.06 Under $10 billion 1.26 1.06 0.05 -0.29 0.16 0.66 0.96 Source:

Saturday, September 7, 2019

Trip to the Museum of Brands Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Trip to the Museum of Brands - Essay Example I will concisely examine the past and current campaigns of Coca-Cola in order to reinforce its connection with its brand communication strategy. Given the massive popularity and influence of Coca-Cola, it can be claimed that the brand ultimately stands for fun, freedom and refreshment. Its focus on imparting the benefits of strong familial bond, as well as the advantages of having genuine social relationships have elevated the value of the brand from mere functional to emotional. Drinking Coke does not only mean consuming a beverage, but also adhering to what the brand stands for. Firstly, Coke’s trademark cursive script logo was in 1886 by Frank M. Robinson. As later on claimed by Robinson, the use of two Cs in the logo will help the product stand out from its competition. Since the same logo has remained for the past 120 years, it is estimated to cost $67 billion. Introduction Visiting the Museum of Brands has truly helped me understand the role of branding in not only furthering business growth, but also in influencing people’s lives. For this paper, I would like to critically analyze Coca-Cola as a brand. In this regard, I shall first provide a brief background on what I deem the overall branding strategy of Coca-Cola is, To provide a short outline of this report, I wish to start with a brief review of what branding is and how it relates to owning a specific image in the consumer’s minds. Then, I shall discuss the brands that struck my interest during the trip to the Museum of Brands. After this, I will conclude this report by sharing my insights on my experience. Branding, as Stine (2010) highlighted in his paper entitled â€Å"The Nine Principles of Branding†, is essentially about communicating the unique differentiation of one product in relation to its competitors. Through the proper combination of striking statements and creative visuals, branding is able to elevate the relevance of the highlighted product in the daily lives of the consumers.