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

Analysis - Essay Example ts by exhorting the people to alter, to abolish, and to institute a new government when it comes the time when the declaration is already destructive with respect to the rights. Same principles must also apply to uphold the same qualities of Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness, should there be an alteration of the state’s constitution. The people were also encouraged to look at the declaration as eternal and not fleeting. But, it emphasized the rights of the people to throw off the government if it continually claims constitutionality under shadows of usurpation and abuses. One is really amazed at the constitution’s gist of solid principles. And, if historians are to digest the declaration, there are many things to learn upon the classic example of the America’s Declaration of Independence. Democracy is not only a nomenclature for the kind of government, but also a state or quality of the governanment with life, liberty and pursuit of happiness in the end. It attempts to liberate the people. It attempts to establish the people as partners of the bureaucracy. And, it looks at people as highly-minded constituents, and as collaborators as well. It is learned that the true intentions of the framers of the constitution is to do good for the people and for the people in the next generations; that all people should be guaranteed with the same inalienable rights. It also intends to protect the people against abuses and usurpations. It will always be remembered that the framers had sincerely put in place the safeguards for the people. And, the people should be put away from harm. Lastly, it is comforting to note that the Americans can overcome challenges if it will be united as one. And the global community can take it as a catalyst to provide better lives for the entire

Airasia Such As Computer Reservation System Information Technology Essay

Airasia Such As Computer Reservation System Information Technology Essay AirAsia is one of the Malaysia Airline that established for everyone who dreamed of making flying to reach ones destination. Since 2001, AirAsia has been expanding rapidly with the largest low fare airlines in which everyone can travel with affordable price and AirAsia has also awarded for the world best low cost airline in year 2010 (Miller, P., 2010) [Online]. Lets put it in this way with a simple slogan, Now Everyone Can Fly, Malaysias AirAsia has successfully carried out and placed in customers mind with the largest low-cost flying trip and largest customer base. Go Holidays offered by AirAsia at the low-cost flying trip, whereby they also offer hostel, hotels, car rental and holiday packages at discounted rates. Booking or reservation of airplane tickets can be done at www.airasia.com. Besides, AirAsia provide services such as Low Cost Carrier Terminal (LCCT) and AirAsias bus travel to KLIA at the lower cost. According to The Star report under the business section, AirAsia is now announced that several airports in Malaysia and regional countries will offered a self check-in service and for more convenience, customers can also use web-based check-in service (The Star, 2010) [Online]. In the year ended 2009, AirAsia reported a net profit of RM549.1million, a rise by 11% compared to the loss of RM 496.6 million incurred during 2008 (The Star, 2010) [Online]. 1.2 Types of Information System There are few types of Information System were in use in AirAsia, such as Computer Reservation System (CRS), Customer Relationship Management (CRM), Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) System, and Advanced Planning and Scheduling (APS) system. CRS is a computer system used in travel industry that allowed storing, retrieving data and conducting transactions. This system was created by airlines. AirAsia used this system is to allow users to access and check seating availability, flight schedules, airline fare, booking reservations and generating tickets. CRM is a set of applications that give companies to gain insights into customers changing needs, wants, and behaviors in order to better serve them (Haag and Cummings, 2008). This applications help AirAsia to analyse customers contact, so that it enable AirAsia to maintain and update electronic customer profile. Moreover, CRM also help to update online answers at AirAsias web page frequently asked questions (FAQs) about their services, such as booking, online payment and etc. ERP is the information systems to integrate the data from different functional areas of a business, such areas as planning, manufacturing, order entry, inventory management and many more (Oz, 2008). This system also help in planning and allow companies to operate more efficiency because it avoid duplication of information and avoid rework (Oz, 2008). AirAsia uses ERP system is to capturing daily operations transactions, manage its supply chain, and also helping to save its daily operational costs as well as to increase the operational performance to become more efficiency (Microsoft Press Pass, 2005). APS is a type of system also known as manufacturing management process. This system is used for supply chain planning in the sense that it uses information from ERP for planning and scheduling operations (Muzumdar, no date)[Online]. APS also can be used to tracks costs based on the activities in the production of manufactured goods. However, due ERP system does not provide for better supply chain management to analyses the flexibility and intelligence required implemented by AirAsia. AirAsia therefore use APS system helps to improve AirAsias strategic and operational performance, classifies and clusters orders from customer, and checks resources availability. 2.0 Benefits from System Adoption 2.1 Customer Relationship Management (CRM) A good CRM is important for AirAsia to success in airline industry. With CRM, AirAsias staff will easily understand and satisfy customers needs and wants. The benefits of CRM are such as: (i) Reduce Operating Costs: By using CRM system, work and activities done by AirAsia will become more systematic and coordinated. This will help AirAsia to eliminate waste of funds, such as AirAsia use web or e-mail to handle some customers queries or problems instead of through a call centre. This results labour cost will be reduced and business operations will become more effective and efficient. CRM also can help AirAsia to organise customer communications if AirAsia facing difficulties, such as struggles to maintain multiple mailing lists for different groups of customers. (ii) Development of Better Relations with Customers: Using CRM helps AirAsia to develop their customers relationships. CRM systems provide reliable sources to deal with AirAsias customers in sales, marketing, and service to optimize revenue, customer satisfaction, and customer retention (Laudon and Laudon, 2010). The benefit of using CRM is because this system provides a better service to customers. For example, on the first page of the AirAsia Website, which has stated the member log in button and this has proven that AirAsia always set their customers as the first priority in every consideration. The benefits of becoming AirAsia members are information provided to customers will always ones step ahead from others (ie. promotional booking offers, news updates, and so on). All customers particular data are fully secured and will be guaranteed for personalization from AirAsia. (Azleen Ilias et al., 2009)[Online] 2.2 Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) System There are many different benefits and reasons why AirAsia choose and deploy ERP systems. These are as follow: (i) Help reduce operating costs:   The ERP systems enable to help AirAsia to reduce operating cost and its a benefit when AirAsia is running company analytics.   The major benefits of ERP are improved the coordination of AirAsias process into one streamlined process where all information can be accessed across departments through a single enterprise wide information network (Anthony, 2005)[Online].  Additional benefit from implementing ERP systems are reduced operating cost, such as lower the cost of production, marketing, inventory control, and help desk support (Anthony, 2005)[Online]. (ii) Facilitate Day-to-Day Management: Facilitating day-to-day management activities is also one of the benefits from ERP systems. In encourages the establishment of backbone data warehouses (Anthony, 2005)[Online]. The implementations of ERP systems allows employees to access real time information and this helps with research, decision making, and managerial control (benefitsoferp, 2010)[Online]. Besides, it also can perform activity based costing and helps AirAsia to track activities actual costs (Anthony, 2005)[Online]. 2.3 Advanced Planning and Scheduling (APS) There are certain benefits which can be found in APS system. These are as follow: (i) Visibility Across The Whole Supply Chain: The benefit of using APS system is visibility across the whole supply chain. The supply chain management system will ensure each party, (ie. suppliers and customers) works together in integration in terms of cross-functional scheduling and planning. So that AisAsia will have better connectivity across the supply chain (Muzumdar, no date)[Online]. (ii) Optimizing profit management (Anon, 2010)[Online]: The most influencing factor in AirAsias strategy is the price, this is because the airline competing in the low cost market. Trend analysis also benefited in that the APS system is designed to Maximised revenue of AirAsia by the existing YMS system and optimizing price strategy. On the other hand, AirAsias operational cost will be minimized by APS system by using YMS system to generate information to further improve AirAsias plan and schedule for the facilities needed (Muzumdar, no date). The integration of YMS system into the APS system ensures profit optimization. 3.0 Pitfalls to Avoid 3.1 Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Although CRM systems have brought benefits to AirAsia, but there are still some pitfalls exist. AirAsia therefore should avoid these pitfalls otherwise a significant effect will cause AirAsia improperly operate. Listed below are the pitfalls need to avoid. (i) Inadequate training on the CRM software (Anon, 2010)[Online]: Anytime when a new system is introduced, employees feel lack of confident to use it and they will always try to avoid from using it. Many training consultants offered by CRM software vendors visit AirAsia during their rollout phase and for refresher sessions (Anon, 2010)[Online]. This system is highly encourage to be provided as adequate training will be given to employees and money saved in the long run even-though it is costly and time consuming (Cost Vs Benefits analysis). (ii) Misunderstanding customer needs (Anon, 2010)[Online]: Sometimes, unnecessary time taken to service the customers and not giving good services will affect AirAsias image. AirAsia therefore should respond to customers when it is needed. For example, in the CRM process, CRM manager should arrange and reply the customers queries that ask for the essential information through easy-to-use access. At the same time, get feedback from customers is encouraged so that able to improve companys CRM system in future. 3.2 Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) System There are some common pitfalls to avoid when AirAsia implementing ERP systems. These are as follows: (i) Lack of Time and Manpower Required For Implementation (Mutt, 2010)[Online]: When there is a shortage of time and employees required for implementation, AirAsia may over burden the employees with their regular work by giving them extra responsibilities on ERP implementation (Mutt, 2010)[Online]. This will lead employees could not perform the ERP software properly as they are already over stress with their regular work. To avoid this happen, AirAsia should work out a proper time schedule for ERP implementation process and working hours of each employee so that each employee may contribute as per their ability in the process (Mutt, 2010)[Online]. (ii) Poor Selection of ERP Software (Mutt, 2010)[Online]: There are many reasons result the poor selection of ERP software, however the most common cause is due to inability to identity the functional requirements. Proper cross checking of the products not aligned with the designed and derived functional requirements, lack of detailed study of the product and its characteristics also lead to poor selection which may result AirAsia fail in implementing ERP properly. Therefore, to avoid this, employees of the company at all levels should be responsible and involved in the testing and study of the product. Assistance from the external expert can be taken to improve the system. Besides, successful implemented ERP from the same industry can be use and refer for the improvement purposes. 4.0 Conclusion In todays world, the business among airline industry has become more competitive and very tough. Every company in airline industry is trying to implement some strategies to compete with each other. To survive in business world, AirAsia needs to achieve their long terms objective and compete with their competitor in the airline industry. AirAsia has been so successful in Low Cost carrier (LCC) among all the competitors in airline industry until today and many passengers would like to travel by choosing AirAsia because they offered low fares with no hidden charges, interesting promotion packages, and many more. Recently, AirAsia had offer mobile booking via SMS (Short Message Service) and AirAsia is the first airline in the world provides this service. Last but not least, CRM is a powerful competitive tool that always serves customers better by understanding their needs, wants, and behaviours. Through the AirAsias website applications, they can provide most reliable and potential airline services to customers. 5.0 How AirAsia should use Information Systems for the future, focusing on the competitive advantages of IT As a CEO (Chief Executive Officer) of AirAsia, in order for AirAsia to improve the performance and management of AirAsia successfully in future, few competitive advantages of IT are needed to focus. However, the most important information system should focus on is Customer Relationship Management (CRM). First of all, AirAsia shouldnt approach to CRM initiative development that is learning from other competitors, for example fast check-in system by installing kiosks. In order to differentiate from other competitors in travel industry, AirAsia should carry out CRM program in favor of investing in initiatives with a high return, which will respond to customers needs and desires. Therefore, in order to maintain competitive advantages and profitability, AirAsia should foster the relationships between customers (according to Hillman and Keim). In the business world, company will never compete against company, but will compete network against network. For example, MAS (Malaysian Airline System) does not compete against AirAsia. Their respective networks compete. AirAsia and MAS, both are low fare airlines. In order to attract customers to travel, AirAsia always advertise their promotions through AirAsias webpage and newspapers with the most affordable price. With no doubts, poor network services will not have a good relationship in long run. Therefore, network has to work together with CRM to deliver great value of information to customers and solve customers problems, is a source of great competitive advantage. Lastly, a simple notification given by AirAsia to customers can be an opportunity for a valued dialogue. The implementation of CRM is to create a valuable customer relationship and with the two basic functions that are marketing and the customer experience. Marketing is required to build promises with customers, manage the dialogue component of the customer relationship, and motivate customer purchase behaviour. The customer experience is to deliver on the promises, represent the service component of the customer relationship, and reinforce customer purchase behaviour. Time is precious, quick and prompt to respond to customers email or SMS (Short Message Service) is very important. Dissatisfaction of customers is also very important because it provide excellent feedbacks to improve the quality and value-added of AirAsia.

What Compact Disc Would I Take to a Desert Island? :: Music

What Compact Disc Would I Take to a Desert Island? Tough question. What else to take? Easy Enough. I would bring as many bags of Utz Salt n’ Vinegar potato chips as possible, one copy of Earnest Hemmingway’s The Old Man and the Sea, and I figure just about any woman would suit me. Denied these things, the choice of a Desert Island Disc is made much more complicated. With nothing else to occupy my mind I need that one great disc. Much like Nick Tosches’ choice of Sticky Fingers I find this decision extremely difficult: "But Sticky Fingers is a choice as mysterious and as difficult to explain to myself as anyone else."(Tosches 4) The choices are numerous and I’m pulled and so many different directions at once it is very difficult to decide. Santiago had it easy; I’ll take the Marlin over this essay any day. The first band that popped into my head was, of course, Led Zeppelin. But, before I thought of any Zeppelin albums a few other choices came by. The first had to be Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon. This album gets as much listening time as any single Led Zeppelin album. The music is haunting, powerful, and emotional. The problem with this is it lacks some of the levity that I felt would be necessary on the Desert Island. Tracks like "Time", which is about how fast time goes by in life, would only remind of how heart wrenchingly slow time would flow on the desolate sandbar. Darkside had to go. My next thought was Yes 90125 released when the band reformed in the early 80’s. This album in my opinion is on of the greatest albums ever composed. It though my entire lifetime has consumed the lion’s share of my listening time. This album flows as almost a singular musical creation. But this lacked levity and more importantly the variety that I wanted. This one wouldn’t fly either. The next album that popped into my head was Das Efx Dead Serious. This rap album might sound like a strange choice when compared to the other albums I’ve described. But I love it. It like 90125 really is a masterpiece of album composing. I love the beats and the rolling rhythm of the lyrics. The problem with this is that much like Yes it lacks the variety I wanted. All said and done my choice has to be Led Zeppelin’s Houses of the Holy. What Compact Disc Would I Take to a Desert Island? :: Music What Compact Disc Would I Take to a Desert Island? Tough question. What else to take? Easy Enough. I would bring as many bags of Utz Salt n’ Vinegar potato chips as possible, one copy of Earnest Hemmingway’s The Old Man and the Sea, and I figure just about any woman would suit me. Denied these things, the choice of a Desert Island Disc is made much more complicated. With nothing else to occupy my mind I need that one great disc. Much like Nick Tosches’ choice of Sticky Fingers I find this decision extremely difficult: "But Sticky Fingers is a choice as mysterious and as difficult to explain to myself as anyone else."(Tosches 4) The choices are numerous and I’m pulled and so many different directions at once it is very difficult to decide. Santiago had it easy; I’ll take the Marlin over this essay any day. The first band that popped into my head was, of course, Led Zeppelin. But, before I thought of any Zeppelin albums a few other choices came by. The first had to be Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon. This album gets as much listening time as any single Led Zeppelin album. The music is haunting, powerful, and emotional. The problem with this is it lacks some of the levity that I felt would be necessary on the Desert Island. Tracks like "Time", which is about how fast time goes by in life, would only remind of how heart wrenchingly slow time would flow on the desolate sandbar. Darkside had to go. My next thought was Yes 90125 released when the band reformed in the early 80’s. This album in my opinion is on of the greatest albums ever composed. It though my entire lifetime has consumed the lion’s share of my listening time. This album flows as almost a singular musical creation. But this lacked levity and more importantly the variety that I wanted. This one wouldn’t fly either. The next album that popped into my head was Das Efx Dead Serious. This rap album might sound like a strange choice when compared to the other albums I’ve described. But I love it. It like 90125 really is a masterpiece of album composing. I love the beats and the rolling rhythm of the lyrics. The problem with this is that much like Yes it lacks the variety I wanted. All said and done my choice has to be Led Zeppelin’s Houses of the Holy.

A social analysis of Child Support Policy in the U.S

It is the social responsibility of the government to reliably provide for the basic needs of its citizens. This is of particular importance in ensuring sustainable and equitable social and economic development in the community.Due to this reason, numerous government policies have been formulated and implemented to promote provision of support services to the vulnerable minority members of the community. Of importance here is the Child Support Policy, which mandates financial support responsibility for single parent child by the other parent.This paper gives a critical social analysis of Child Support policy as well as a brief history of this policy in the US.History and provisions of Child Support policy in USThe concern for child support policy in the United States can be traced back to the 19th century. This was after courts addressing martial breakdown and divorce cases identified the lack of enforceable legal provision providing for child support action by non-custodian parents ( Hansen, 1999).This concerns and increased public outcry led to the passage of the first federal child support enforcement later in 1952. Available information indicates that this legislation provided guidelines to state welfare agencies on determining when aid is necessary for single parent families.In 1975, the federal government enacted the Social Security Act, which provided more legal authority for enforcing collection of child support (Hansen, 1999).This was followed by the 1984 amendment on Child Support Enforcement dictating for improvement in state and local support enforcement programs through establishment of state-wide child support guidelines.Through this amendment, the states gained authority to withhold income for non-custodial parents who were paying for child support (Josephson, 1997). In addition, the law required state governments to report defiance or late payment of support by non-custodial parents to consumer credit agencies.According to the provisions of the cu rrent child support laws, an individual is termed as a non-custodial parent in three conditions namely; if the child was as a result of a relationship, a marriage that was terminated through divorce or separation, and/or even in cases were none of such existed (Meyer, & Cancian, 2005).Social value of child Support policy in the community Child support policy in the United States has been marked with numerous controversies among members of the political, social, and economic fronts of the community.Proponents of the policy have cited its instrumental role it plays in promoting sustainable parental care responsibility on children. According to available information, the high rates of divorce in the nation have resulted into increased burden to members of the society.This is because most victims of single families are economically dependent. Thus, the policy serves the ultimate purpose of ensuring sustainable economic independence in single parent families (Department of Health, and Hu man Services, 2005).Another common assertion by supporters of child support policy is that it functions to mitigate unethical practices in the society. True to the letter, divorce rates are increasingly becoming a major social concern in the nation. On the contrary, this is found to negate the underlying purpose of marriage in the society.This has the implication that failing to enforce mandatory parental care for both parents will only serve to create injustice in the community (Department of Health and Human Services, 2005). This can be supported by the fact that the child in question is in essence the result of the relationship of the couples.In addition, child support policy finds its importance in reducing government expenditure on individual citizens, an element that promotes public policies for the common good of all in the society (Melli, & Oldham, 2000). As provided for in the constitution, the government should provide for the basic needs of its citizens.This means that th e government will increase its investment on providing for single families at the expense of other public projects. Due to this reason, child support policy in the united states of American functions a crucial role in promoting ethics of care and equitable justice in the society.However, child support policies have not been without critics. It is a common claim by opponents that this policy is a real source of resource wastage in the community. The law requires a law enforcement of the policy through court agreement between the custodian parent and the non-custodian parent of the child.According to available statistical information, an estimated over 60 percent of child support cases end up in a long court battle between the disputing parties (Hansen, 1999). This has the ultimate implication that both parties are entail to loosing both in time and financial resources.Still, the provisions of the child support policy can be seen as a contradiction of individual right to equal opportu nity. Existing legislations on child support enforcement give state and local governments to report to consumer credit agencies any delays by non-custodial parents to pay support (Meyer, & Cancian, 2005).However, this requirement does not take into account the question of employment loss or financial crisis on the side of the non-custodial parent.This has the implication that the policy limits the sustainable social and economic development of these individuals in the society. Failure by the policy to appreciate the dynamics of the employment market is thus a contradiction of the constitutional provisions of equal opportunity.

The Witches Influence on Macbeth

The Witches Influence on Macbeth Allison Schweinert Malling Hour 2 1/15/12 Throughout Macbeth, Shakespeare’s witches, or the â€Å"three weird sisters† (1. 3. 32) serve several purposes. With their persuasive techniques and ability to either see or influence the future, their most important role seems to be their power to influence decision-making and cause the initial deterioration of Macbeth. By providing five prophecies, the witches â€Å"provide Macbeth’s ‘call to action’ and drive his thirst for power†, (Jamieson). However, by not telling Macbeth the full truth, they give him false hope, and expectations that ultimately lead to his demise. The witches influence him so greatly, that without their presence, it is possible that Macbeth would never have even committed the murder of King Duncan. The three weird sisters make their first appearance in Act 1 Scene 1. In Act 1 Scene 3, the witches make their first predictions. The first is that Macbeth will be King of Cawdor and Thane of Glamis. The second is that Banquo’s sons will also be kings. Macbeth’s is forced to question the prophecies and says to the witches, â€Å"By Sinel’s death I know I am thane of Glamis. But how of Cawdor? The thane of Cawdor lives, A prosperous gentleman, and to be king, stands not within the prospect of belief,† (1. 3. 71-74). Due to his inevitable inheritance of the title Thane of Glamis, Macbeth is convinced that the witches are, in fact, of a supernatural nature. Despite his lingering doubts, these predictions were enough to convince Macbeth and Lady Macbeth to pursue their ambitions and kill Duncan. This shows the witches first influence in that, even though Macbeth questions their credibility, he allows them to have substantial control in his future. Secondly, it is thought by many, that to know what fate may have in store for them, and to have knowledge of the future is wrong. It seems this is true, because after Macbeth demands the witches second appearance, he is told to beware of Macduff, and that he cannot be harmed by anyone born of a woman or defeated until the â€Å"Great Birnam Wood to high Dunsinane shall come,† (4. 1. 93-94). After receiving these final prophecies, it seems that Macbeth’s morale begins to deteriorate along with his confidence. Based on his paranoia and extreme reliance on the witch’s initial prediction he sends out men to murder Banquo and his son. He also attempts to kill Macduff, and when that fails he tells the murderers to kill his family despite their innocence. In this, he reaches a point of true evil. However, throughout all this, Macbeth continues to have his doubts. He considers his invincibility and constantly reminds himself and others that, he â€Å"bares a charmed life, which must not yield To one of woman born,† (5. . 12-13). I believe he does this because he needs to convince himself that the witches are, in fact, unequivocal. However, he fails to consider that perhaps the witches just aren’t telling him the full truth. This becomes evident in Macbeth’s final scenes as the Birnam Woods make their way towards him, in Malcolm’s attemp t to hide his numbers. Macbeth also realizes that he should have had higher speculations moments before his death, when Macduff tells him â€Å"Despair thy charm, And let the angel whom thou still hast served Tell thee, Macduff was from his mother’s womb Untimely ripped†, (5. . 13-16). At this point, Macbeth was forced to come to terms with his undoing and realize that the witches weren’t as reliable as he’d hoped. But how much of the blame do the witches truly deserve? We now must ask ourselves, â€Å"Are the witches prophecies preordained? Or do they simply encourage Macbeth to become active in constructing his own fate? † (Jamieson). My answer to both of these is yes. The second that the witches told Macbeth that he would be king, his future became exactly as they’d foretold. Once he obtained knowledge of his divine will and allowed the witches prophecies to overtake him, Macbeth began to slowly deteriorate. It wasn’t until Macbeth heard the witches prophecies, that thoughts of killing Duncan came to him, and even when the did, he was reluctant. The initial thought of committing such a crime was, â€Å"but fantastical† (1. 3. 139), despite Macbeth’s ruthless nature in combat. Even further, prior to the murder during his discussion with Lady Macbeth, he attempted to withdraw himself from the conspiracy. He tells Lady Macbeth, â€Å"that we but teach Bloody instructions, which, being taught, return to plague th’ inventor: this even handed justice Commends th’ ingredients of our poisoned chalice To our own lips,† (1. 7. 8-12). Macbeth says this as if he knows, to trust the prophecies, is to seal his fate. Unfortunately, it is too late for Lady Macbeth. She has already had a taste for power in her control over Macbeth; now she is addicted to it and has already traded her morals to the devil. Lady Macbeth’s early decisions are what, I believe, led to her extreme loss of sanity. Macbeth doesn’t entirely come to terms with his ambitions until later. He evokes full trust within the prophecies near the end of the play, while he boasts of his invincibility. Their dependence and reliance on the prophecies is what ultimately led to their demise. Without the prophecies, there would have been nothing to rely on and simply their desires to push them. Because of this, the witches’ influence on Macbeth is clear. They did far more than just provide him with a glimpse of his future; they released his innermost desires and set his path by doing so. They opened doors and guided him on a journey that once he had embarked on, could never return. References Crowther, John, ed. â€Å"No Fear Macbeth. † SparkNotes. com. SparkNotes LLC. 2005. Web. 16 Jan. 2012 Jamieson, Lee â€Å"‘Macbeth' Witches. † About. com Shakespeare. N. p. , October 2005. Web. 10 Jan 2012. . Riedel, Jennifer. â€Å"The Witches' Influence on Macbeth . † Diss. University of Victoria, 1995. Web. . Shakespeare, William. Macbeth. Elements of Literature: Sixth Course. Ed. Kathleen Daniel, et al. Austin: Holt, Reinhart and Winston, 2003. 300-385.

American Colonization Society Essays

American Colonization Society Essays American Colonization Society Essay American Colonization Society Essay American Colonization Society This society created a plan to send freed African Americans to Africa to found new settlements. David Walker A free African American business from Boston, who published the Appeal to the Colored Citizens of the World. He wanted universal abolition and called on free African Americans and slaves to take action, such as violence, to gain freedom and equality. William Lloyd Garrison A white New England Journalist, who launched the Liberator, an abolitionist newspaper. He tried to convince people that slavery was a sin and a crime because it contradicted both the Bible and the Declaration of Independence. Liberator- An abolitionist newspaper. American Anti-Slavery Society The first national antislavery organization to be devoted to immediate abolition and racial equality, created by black and white abolitionists in 1833. Frederick Douglass A fugitive slave from Maryland. He became the most prominent escaped slave to speak out publicly against slavery. Sojourner Truth- A former slave who worked tirelessly for the American Anti-Slavery Society. Truth was originally named Isabella Baumfree. After her escape, she Joined religious reformers who preached on the streets of New York City. Adopting the name Sojourner Truth, she traveled throughout New England, preaching the gospel of abolition and womens rights. Sarah Grimk? ©- Sister of Angelina Grimke, and was against living in a society that tolerated slavery. She was among the first women to speak on behalf of the American Anti- Slavery Society. She traveled throughout New England, delivering lectures and forming anti-slavery organizations. Angelina Grimk? ©- Sister of Sarah Grimke, and was against living in a society that tolerated slavery. She was among the first women to speak on behalf of the American Anti- Slavery Society. She traveled throughout New England, delivering lectures and orming anti-slavery organizations. Theodore Weld- Worked with Angelina and Sarah Grimke, to write and publish American Slavery As It Is one of the most influential antislavery documents of the period. Elijah Lovejoy- an abolitionist editor in Alton, Illinois, who was murdered in 1837 as he tried to prevent a mob from destroying his printing press. a. Provide evidence to explain whether the following statement is fact or opinion: The active role African Americans took in antislavery efforts changed the focus of the abolitionist movement. The active role African Americans took in antislavery changed the focus of the bolitionist movement by forming more than 143 antislavery societies with the mission of freeing their brothers in chains. Before, the goal was to keep African Americans in America but afterwards, they realized freedom was most important. b. How effective were the tactics of the American Anti-Slavery Society? The tactics of the American Anti-Slavery Society were very effective because they were able to create more than 200 branches across the North and the Midwest. Also, they spread their message by publishing antislavery publications and conducted petition drives to prot est legislation supporting slavery. . What conflicts did abolitionists face, and what steps might abolitionists have taken to resolve these conflicts? The abolitionists were constantly faced with violence as the antislavery movement strengthened in the 1830s. Garrison was nearly killed by an angry mob; Elijah Lovejoy was murdered in 1837 as he tried to prevent a mob from destroying his printing press. The abolitionist also faced division within their movement. The steps the abolitionists might have taken may include, neglecting the movement completely and/or creating more antislavery publications in order to persuade people that slavery was bad.

Your Syndicated Newspaper Column †Proving Yourself to Editors

Your Syndicated Newspaper Column – Proving Yourself to Editors Imagine, seeing your Still reading? Good. If the obstacles don’t scare you, you’re on your way. Writing a column is your first step toward syndication. Finding publishing sources and composing your query are the next two. Newspaper editors are the key. You want your column printed in numerous papers, which requires finding numerous editors. You can purchase email lists for a price – often a hefty one. Since I’m trying to keep the cash flowing into my bank account, not out, I find addresses myself – one editor and one state at a time. Most states have a newspaper association website. Some include names of newspapers, editors and email addresses. If that’s the case, you’ll get your information there. It isn’t always this easy. Don’t fear. You can find your information elsewhere online. One website, Mondo Times, bills itself as the worldwide media directory and provides newspaper listings In your initial email, send a short letter describing the column. It’s important to communicate key elements within a few sentences: First paragraph: Pair your name with the name of your column. Include a one or two sentence writing

When Do IB Results and Scores Come Out

When Do IB Results and Scores Come Out SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips You’re in an IB Diploma Programme or a few IB classes, and you have slaved all year (or two years) studying for your SLs and HLs. You sat for the exams - where you probably developed carpal tunnel syndrome. Also, you can relate a little too well to this video, but you are hoping you did a little bit better on your IB exams.So when do you get your scores? How do you get your scores? What does your score mean? I will answer all of these questions and more in this article. For the May IB Exam Dates The scores are issued on July 5 of the same year.For example, if you took your test May 2015, you received your scores July 5, 2015. For the November IB Exam Dates The scores are issued on January 5, in the year following the exam.For example, students who took exams in November 2014 received their results on January 5, 2015. Mark your calendar! How Do You Check Your IB Scores? Ask your IB course coordinator for your candidate PIN. Using that number, you can access your own results via the IB’s candidate results website.You will be able to do so one day after results are issued: on July 6 for the May session and January 6 for the November session. You Got Your Score: What Does It Mean? Tests Are Graded on a Scale of 1-7 For a full breakdown of what each score means (what the score criteria is) check out this document from the International Baccalaureate Organization. What IB Scores Will Colleges Accept for Credit? Each school may have slightly different qualifications for getting credit for IB courses, but most college classes give you credit for IB HL classes with an exam score of 5 or higher.Some colleges even wave your general education requirements for those students with an IB Diploma.Others like University of Southern California (my alma mater) give you a full year’s worth of credit to those with an IB Diploma.Look up colleges' individual IB college credit policy by doing a Google Search forâ€Å"[Name of College/University] IB credit policy.†Most universities have a dedicated web page for explaining their IB credit policy. What If You Feel Like Your Exam Score Was Unfair? After the results have been issued, schools can request re-marks for particular students if they feel the result is undeserved.Schools can also receive a range of different types of feedback on their students' performance. If you wish to do so, please contact IB. What’s Next? Are you hoping to squeeze in some extra IB classes? Learn about the IB courses offered online. Studying for the SAT? Check out our complete guide to the SAT.Taking the SAT in the next month? Check out our guide to cramming. Not sure where you want to go to college? Check out our guide to finding your target school. Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points or your ACT score by 4 points? We've written a guide for each test about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download it for free now:

Raising prices enhances wine sales Research Paper

Raising prices enhances wine sales - Research Paper Example Hypothesis generation is considered to be the most creative task within a research (Salkind, 2010, p. 1253-1254). The null hypothesis and alternative hypothesis of this research study are mentioned below: Based on the research problem and the designed hypothesis in this study, it can be said that the two major variables that can be considered in this case are the price and demand of wines. The increasing price increases the demand of wine; here the dependent variable is the demand while the independent variable is the price of wines. Another dependent variable is the satisfaction or level of pleasure of the respondents because the satisfaction level of the respondents also increased when they consumed a high priced wine (Nargundkar, 2003, p. 187-189). The wines were tagged with the price, which is the independent variable, and given to respondents for tasting. It was found that the respondents preferred more of the high price tagged wines; a MRI test was also conducted to monitor the brain activities. It was found that the respondents felt more satisfied consuming the high price tagged wines. There are certain extraneous variables which might have affected the study, but these are not included in the article. This can be even considered as the limitations of the study. The brand of the wine; age group; socio-cultural aspects, such as level of the respondents in the society; income level and habit are few important variables that affect the demand of wine (Malhotra, 2008, p. 228). In this experiment, the researcher has chosen a within subject design, as it can be seen that all the respondents in this research have undergone similar experiments. Here all the 20 respondents were allowed to taste similar wines and provide their inputs for the same. Firstly, within subject design is appropriate for small experiments. As the sample size of this experiment

Ratio Analysis Case Speech or Presentation Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Ratio Analysis Case - Speech or Presentation Example Investors of the company regard it as a poor investment because it has poor current and future performance. They anticipate lower growth in the future. As far as the well-being of the common stockholders are concerned, the company is able to provide them some returns in the form of dividends even though it might be lower than that of other companies in the industry. Stephens Company has a higher gross margin percentage implying reasonable profit as the company is keeping overhead costs in control. In terms of liquidity, the firm is relatively liquid. Its current ratio is greater than one meaning it is able to meet its near-term obligations with lots of ease. Its quick ratio is less than one implying that it  is unable to meet its short-term using its most liquid assets. The company is less liquid than other companies in the industry because it has lower quick and current ratios. In terms of efficiency, the company is less efficient in managing its liabilities and using its assets to generate income. Its average collection and sales period are more than that of other companies in the industry. The company’s efficiency in collecting its receivable is less than that of the industry. Additionally, the company has higher days’ inventory on hand. In terms of leverage, the company uses more debt than equity. It has a debt to equity ratio of 2. It is highly leveraged than other companies. Even, though it is highly leveraged, it has more cover for the interest expense (TIE=3.08 times), but the cover is less than that of other companies in the industry. In general, the company is able to pay both the long-term and short-term debts. The loan should be approved. First the company makes a reasonable profit which is sufficient enough for its daily operations. Secondly, the company has higher cover the for the interest expense implying lower risk as a result of bankruptcy. Finally, the company is able to provide common

Ratio Analysis Case Speech or Presentation Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Ratio Analysis Case - Speech or Presentation Example Investors of the company regard it as a poor investment because it has poor current and future performance. They anticipate lower growth in the future. As far as the well-being of the common stockholders are concerned, the company is able to provide them some returns in the form of dividends even though it might be lower than that of other companies in the industry. Stephens Company has a higher gross margin percentage implying reasonable profit as the company is keeping overhead costs in control. In terms of liquidity, the firm is relatively liquid. Its current ratio is greater than one meaning it is able to meet its near-term obligations with lots of ease. Its quick ratio is less than one implying that it  is unable to meet its short-term using its most liquid assets. The company is less liquid than other companies in the industry because it has lower quick and current ratios. In terms of efficiency, the company is less efficient in managing its liabilities and using its assets to generate income. Its average collection and sales period are more than that of other companies in the industry. The company’s efficiency in collecting its receivable is less than that of the industry. Additionally, the company has higher days’ inventory on hand. In terms of leverage, the company uses more debt than equity. It has a debt to equity ratio of 2. It is highly leveraged than other companies. Even, though it is highly leveraged, it has more cover for the interest expense (TIE=3.08 times), but the cover is less than that of other companies in the industry. In general, the company is able to pay both the long-term and short-term debts. The loan should be approved. First the company makes a reasonable profit which is sufficient enough for its daily operations. Secondly, the company has higher cover the for the interest expense implying lower risk as a result of bankruptcy. Finally, the company is able to provide common

Work-based learning (at a Law ftrm) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Work-based learning (at a Law ftrm) - Essay Example Work based learning merits intending candidates to maintain a set of evidence that demonstrates that a professional can meet the standard requirement of learning outcome. They are assisted by seniors who called upon intermittently during the WBL period. Work based learning is categorized as an important phase in the transition of students from educational work as professionals in practical workplaces. It is stated by Fink, et al, (2007) that work based learning trains the students to transit successfully from school to work1. They further elaborate work based as: â€Å"Work-Based Learning is an approach which focuses upon the practical utility of learning and is therefore directly relevant to learners and their work environment. A WBL approach to learning acknowledges that learning can take place in a variety of situations and settings, and is not restricted to that developed through the classroom or lecture theatre.†2 It means that work based learning is a tool that is employ ed for training students to become qualified professionals. They have pre-utilized the skill of working in a professional based environment and are ready to handle different situations in any workplace. Knowledge, work and learning, all come together when a student is allowed to learn through work based learning approach. ... ifferent as compared to working of employees as it is said, â€Å"Work-based learning needs to be distinguished from work place learning, that form of learning that occurs on a day-to-day basis at work as employees acquire new skills to develop new approaches to solving problems. No formal education recognition normally accrues to such learning, whether or not it is organised systematically.†4 Word based learning for students is a sort of education that students obtain while being at work. They gain practical knowledge that they can implement while being in a professional environment after completion of their academic qualifications. Work based learning accommodates the students to understand working procedures while gaining their education. The universities and organizations together have formed learning experiences for students with the support of work based learning as described under: â€Å"Work-based learning is the term being used to describe a class of university progr ammes that bring together universities and work organizations to create new learning opportunities in workplaces†.5 In my point of view, work based learning is quite crucial in academic life as it facilitates the students to have an idea of the workplace which they wish or are going to work in their future. In addition, working at the workplace is accommodate in facilitating the learners with knowledge as Stephen Billet says, â€Å"as individuals engage in social practices, such as work, they engage in an ongoing process of knowledge construction and refinement.†6 I have been working at Trinity Solicitors LLP since my second year of University. My intention was to have a couple of weeks work experience, after which I was offered to stay longer if I desired to. Of course since then I have been going to

Statistics Review Questions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Statistics Review Questions - Essay Example Correlation is a method to measure the association in between two variables. When we compare the correlating scores of two variables, we are trying to determine whether the variables are related to each other or not. The purpose of doing correlations is to allow us to make a prediction about one variable based on what we know about another variable.  Ã‚  Ã‚   A frequency distribution is the tabulation of raw data obtained by dividing it into  classes  of some size and computing the number of data elements (or their fraction out of the total) falling within each pair of  class boundaries. A frequency distribution can be modeled as a  histogram  or  as a pie chart (Frequency Distribution). A pie chart shows the differences between two separate variables or subjects. A pie chart is a graph that is in the shape of a circle which represents a total of 100%. Other variables or subjects are shown on the chart with respect to their relative percentages to the whole. The different subjects are shown in different colors and the size of each subject in the pie is proportional to the percentage of the subject. A bar graph shows raw data and it is designed to show different values of two or more subjects but instead of using the pie to represent data it uses horizontal and vertical bars that represent a different value. The bar graph has numbers along the side of the bars to indicate the value of the variable and there are scales which show what variable is being measured. The difference between the pie chart and the bar graph is that a bar graph is capable of showing change over time. While a single pie chart cannot show changes over time by itself, it can only represent the given percentages at a fixed point in time. A graphical display of a  frequency table is called a frequency polygon. The X-axis has the intervals shown on it while the number of scores in each interval is represented by the height of a point located above the middle of the

Hospital Marketing Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 2

Hospital Marketing - Assignment Example For a manufacturer of an infusion pump therapy kit for use in hospitals, personal selling or advertisement would help in informing the hospitals the advantages of using the equipment over other related equipment, the cost at which the kit would be sold at to the hospital allowing the hospital to save more than it could have spent on other related equipment and the advantages that the hospital would receive in terms of supply of the item that would not have been received with other items. In a nutshell, personal selling would convince the hospital to purchase more of the equipment, hence increasing the general sales of the equipment. Considering post-purchase role of promotion, for a busy hospital emergency room, a company can offer to make issue out certain items for free for every patient who will purchase a particular item used in the emergency sector of the hospital. May be if the company is selling bandages, it could issue free dressing cotton to the clients who shall have made their purchases from the company. To make a good advertisement on the physical rehabilitation program, there is need for a larger budget. This is because, to reach the targeted clients, much needs to be done. One would want to target drug addicts, to ensure that the target group is met, there are various programs that are required to be included in the advertisement in order to attract such kind of people. In the advertisement, there would be a step by step explanation of how drug addiction may ruin someone’s life then they will have to learn. Before deciding to use the medium, the program director needs to consider whether the targeted persons also read this newspaper, the coverage space of the program in the newspaper and other more effective means of advertisements that would reach the targeted clients than the newspaper.   The newspaper may be having the best circulation, however, may be the targeted persons might not be able to access and read it.  

The issue of globalization on a human resource management perspective Term Paper

The issue of globalization on a human resource management perspective - Term Paper Example From this research it is clear that there has been a growing relationship amongst the cultures, economies, and people in the world. Coupled with advancement in technology, interaction has been steadily increasing in the current world. Thus, the people, cultures, and economies are increasingly becoming interdependent of each for their continued survival. This is globalization with the world effectively becoming a big global village. According to Sparrow, Brewster, and Harris however, globalization is â€Å"a process whereby markets and production in different countries become increasingly interdependent due to the dynamics of trade in goods and services and flows of capital and technology.† In this case, the customers’ need for similar commodities and services drive the globalization of markets. With globalization of markets, a challenge in striking a balance between universal tendency in human resource management and the influence of different national cultures arises. Therefore, this expose elucidates the issue of globalization on a human resource management perspective. Edwards and Rees noted that, globalization necessitates attention to â€Å"more than conducting business across national borders but also entails expanding competition for almost every type of organization presenting management with the challenge to operate in diverse cultural settings.† In this regard, the global economy requires a company to exploit its human resources effectively through effective planning in order to gain a competitive edge over its competitors. Therefore, human resource managemen

Hospital Marketing Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 2

Hospital Marketing - Assignment Example For a manufacturer of an infusion pump therapy kit for use in hospitals, personal selling or advertisement would help in informing the hospitals the advantages of using the equipment over other related equipment, the cost at which the kit would be sold at to the hospital allowing the hospital to save more than it could have spent on other related equipment and the advantages that the hospital would receive in terms of supply of the item that would not have been received with other items. In a nutshell, personal selling would convince the hospital to purchase more of the equipment, hence increasing the general sales of the equipment. Considering post-purchase role of promotion, for a busy hospital emergency room, a company can offer to make issue out certain items for free for every patient who will purchase a particular item used in the emergency sector of the hospital. May be if the company is selling bandages, it could issue free dressing cotton to the clients who shall have made their purchases from the company. To make a good advertisement on the physical rehabilitation program, there is need for a larger budget. This is because, to reach the targeted clients, much needs to be done. One would want to target drug addicts, to ensure that the target group is met, there are various programs that are required to be included in the advertisement in order to attract such kind of people. In the advertisement, there would be a step by step explanation of how drug addiction may ruin someone’s life then they will have to learn. Before deciding to use the medium, the program director needs to consider whether the targeted persons also read this newspaper, the coverage space of the program in the newspaper and other more effective means of advertisements that would reach the targeted clients than the newspaper.   The newspaper may be having the best circulation, however, may be the targeted persons might not be able to access and read it.  

John Kerry on Syria Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

John Kerry on Syria - Assignment Example So what do we know that can’t talk about publically? We know that the Assad regime has the largest chemical program in the entire Middle East. We know that the regime has used those weapons multiple times this year† Before the statement marked in bold, Kerry says that some of the information the government possess cannot be exposed to the general public, yet he goes ahead and presents the same information to the general public. This makes the first statement generally invalid. â€Å"..instead for four days, they shelled the neighborhood in order to destroy the evidence, bombarding block after block at a rate four times higher than they had over the previous ten days†Ã¢â‚¬ ¦in all of these things that I have listed, in all of these things that we know, all of them, the American Intelligence Community has high confidence, this is common sense, this is evidence, these are facts†¦.† John Kerry confirms that the US government intelligence did not manage to gather evidence regarding Assad’s attack on neighboring opposing communities owing to the fact that Assad’s military destroyed all the evidence. However, he goes ahead and argues that the information the US government possess are common sense, therefore

Lesbians as Represented in Mainstream Television Essay Example for Free

Lesbians as Represented in Mainstream Television Essay Lesbian images have been entering into mainstream media more and more. Some argue that this is a sign of a wider acceptance of lesbianism in Western culture. In this paper, two mainstream television programs, Grey’s Anatomy and Law and Order: SVU, will be looked at to assess the nature of lesbian images. It will be argued that if and when lesbians are portrayed in mainstream television they are highly feminized, desexualized, and their lives are almost always framed in ways that appeal to heterocentric norms. Thus, mass media almost always fails to provide the viewer with an accurate and unbiased perception of lesbianism or homosexuality in a broader sense. Grey’s Anatomy has emerged onto the lesbian scene in the last couple of years by developing Callie Torres, a beautiful, vivacious, Latino woman, into a lesbian in the fifth season. A friendship develops between her and Erica Hahn, a successful, ‘sassy’, and appealing newcomer, and it gradually progresses into something more until finally the two share a kiss. Before the romance can flourish, Torres wrestles with her sexuality, her fears, and her lack of understanding of lesbianism. Soon after the relationship establishes itself, Hahn unexpectedly breaks up with Torres and leaves the show. Typical or is it? A season later, Arizona Robbins, a semi-regular of the show, comes into focus when she blatantly hits on Torres. Shortly after, the two start to date and later find themselves in a committed relationship. The question is how good a job does the show do of accurately portraying lesbians? To start, all three of the women mentioned above are attractive and feminine. All three have long flowing hair always nicely styled and maintained and pretty faces carefully done up with light make-up. This is what Ann Ciasullo refers to as â€Å"sanitizing of the lesbian through her feminizing† (599). In other words, Grey’s Anatomy offers up an image of lesbians that is not too homosexual for the heterosexual audience. While it could be argued that such representations help to combat the rigid stereotypes of lesbians as ugly, butch feminists, the very widespread nature of the ‘femme’ image in media indicates something more is going on (Tamsin). The book Out of Focus, suggests that such feminine representations act to lower the threat of lesbianism by reassuring viewers that such (beautiful and feminine) women can or must actually be heterosexual (Kath Davies). In fact, in Grey’s Anatomy, as in many television programs, the ‘butch’ lesbian is completely absent. All of this suggests that the lesbian chic of the ‘90s is far from dead (Tamsin). Grey’s is well known for its scandalous call room sex scenes. Characters, heterosexual characters that is, escape to hidden corners of the hospital where they argue, make up, and make love on a regular basis. This is interesting because such scenes are practically nonexistent between Torres and Hahn or later Torres and Robbins. In fact, physical contact of any kind is somewhat limited between Torres and Robbins. An example of this can be seen in Season five episode 13 when Robbins` patient dies during surgery. When she gets home to see Torres has planned a surprise birthday party for her she bursts into tears overcome by her grief. The pair leaves the room and at this point you would expect a comforting hug, a loving embrace, or a reassuring kiss on the cheek from any reasonably intimate couple or from any other couple on the show for that matter, but not in this case. Torres tells Robbins that she will explain the situation to their friends and at that Robbins leaves. Additionally, sex scenes between Torres and Robbins are few and far between; those that exist are cut short by interruption or not shown at all. The latter is evidenced in Season five episode 11 when the viewer is shown only the aftermath them lying in bed together, presumably after making love, eating pizza. It is a cute scene but not a sexual scene. This is a familiar pattern found in most television programs or movies featuring lesbian couples and just one way lesbians are desexualized (Ciasullo). A notable exception to this pattern is The L Word, but it will not be the focus of this paper. Since the beginning of their relationship Callie and Arizona have slept together three times. Three times in an entire season and for a relationship in its beginning stages is incredibly low by Grey’s standards (or anyone’s standards really). One of these scenes is the ‘pizza scene’ previously mentioned. In another â€Å"sex† scene, Lexi Grey walks in on the two in the shower and quickly walks out; the viewer sees what Lexi sees and nothing more. The final scene implies the two may have sex, but it is not pursued any further. Considering the show develops long, sensual sex scenes between its heterosexual characters, following them from start to finish, the unwillingness to do the same for its lesbian characters is problematic. This is not an isolated phenomenon. The pattern of desexualization is evident not just in television but also in movies as noted by Ciasullo and Yvonne Tasker in her book Working Girls (Ciasullo; Tasker). Another problem with the depiction of Torres and Robbins’ relationship is that it is often framed by the heterosexual constructs of marriage and reproduction. Tasker discusses this issue noting that by explaining lesbianism within a heterosexual context the (heterosexual) audience is assured that lesbians are normal (by heterosexual standards) (Tasker). Such a practice adheres to conventional social norms while ignoring the differing reality of lesbian’s lives. After Torres’ father finally accepts her lesbianism his first question to her addresses the issue of marriage and children. She assures him that she will put on a â€Å"big white dress and dance down the aisle† if Arizona wants to spend the rest of her life with her. Another example takes place in season six episode three, when Torres talks about being married and having a house, kids and a pet dog with Robbins. This description perpetuates heterocentric beliefs that heterosexual activities and institutions are better than homosexual ones simply because it gives no thought to the possibility that things could be different within homosexual relationships. Furthermore, this effort to depict lesbian couples as ‘normal’ by tying them to conventional social norms suggests that homosexual practices are not normal and as such fails to challenge heterocentrism. Law and Order: Special Victims Unit (SVU) is another show with some problematic representations. In over 11 seasons, it has aired a total of five gay-centred storylines and one lesbian specific episode. This discrepancy seems to reflect the idea touched on in Out of Focus that â€Å"coverage of ‘homosexuality’ actually refers to gay men† (Kath Davies 91). A recent episode entitled PC features Kathy Griffin as Babs Duffy, a rude, abrasive, man-hating lesbian activist. First of all, the stereotyping evident in Griffin’s character is troublesome because it feeds into the negative view of lesbians. Visibility is important, but the cost of portraying lesbians in such a light is possibly greater than or as great as not showing them at all. Furthermore, this particular episode is strewn with negative or inaccurate images of lesbians. The episode begins with the discovery of a woman who has been left for dead in an abandoned building. She has been raped and beaten and later dies in the hospital. It is not too long before the viewer finds out from Babs Duffy that the victim was a lesbian. Duffy makes a dramatic entrance into the detectives’ office ordering for the capture of the murderer whom she alleges is targeting lesbians. The investigation commences with a visit to the victim, now known as Alyssa’s, girlfriend. As the episode progresses, you notice something striking – all the main lesbian characters are conventionally attractive, feminine women. More than that though, any lesbian character who is questioned and thus comes into the focus of the camera, is also feminine and pretty. The few butch lesbians in the episode are in the background and barely noticeable. The absence of the butch lesbian is telling. Ciasullo notes that â€Å"without the signifier of the butch, the femme’s lesbianism disappears † (Ciasullo 599). Thus, by eliminating the butch lesbian from the forefront, Law and Order: SVU effectively downplays the lesbianism of the episode. There is, however, one exception – the victim’s girlfriend Sharon, but even here there are issues with her representation as a butch lesbian. The fact that the show chose to make her ‘butch’ is interesting because they also make her a working class, aggressive, even violent, woman. This in effect vilifies the butch lesbian. Sharon even becomes the main suspect at one point because of her temper, and while it is important to shed light on the issue of domestic violence in lesbian relationships the choice to make Sharon, who is butch, into the abuser is not by accident. Ann Ciasullo talks about how presenting butch lesbians in this negative way makes butches into the â€Å"’oppressor,’ the ‘bad’ lesbian† (Ciasullo 600). Further still, her status as a bouncer (and thus as a member of the working class) adds to her mainstream undesirability (Ciasullo). Moreover, even though Sharon is presented as a butch or as Law and Order puts it an â€Å"aggressive,† she is simultaneously portrayed as somewhat feminine. In the first scene that we are introduced to Sharon, her long hair is pulled back into a loose ponytail and she wraps herself up in her long feminine sweater. She is not wearing any noticeable makeup but she is conventionally pretty. After this initial introduction she is likely not yet labelled as a butch by the viewer. It is not until later when she appears in a plaid shirt and leather jacket that it becomes evident that she is butch. It seems butch images are permitted as long as they’re not too butch and as long as the butch character is not framed in a positive way that could be make her desirable. Perhaps the best example of how lesbians are desexualized in Law and Order is in a scene between Babs and Olivia Benson, the female nvestigator. In the initial taping of this scene Babs kisses Olivia, but the kiss doesn’t make it past the cutting room floor. Even worse, the editing is atrocious. It cuts awkwardly from Babs leaning in to Olivia proclaiming that she is straight and something is noticeably missing. The kiss may not be necessary to the plot, but to sacrifice quality in order to remove it demonstrates how fearful t he media are of lesbian sexuality. Further evidence lies in the fact that a kiss between Babs and Elliot Stabler (the male investigator) that happens at the end of the episode remains untouched. However, this revelation, that Babs isn’t actually a lesbian, has a lot of problems on its own. The discovering that Bab’s has a boyfriend, plays on the â€Å"I know she’s a lesbian but † scenario so often found in mainstream media. This idea presents the viewer with the possibility that the lesbian can always become straight or as Ciasullo puts it â€Å"’unbecome’ lesbian† (Ciasullo 592). This places the heterosexual audience in a more comfortable position where they can entertain the idea that the attractive lesbians in the show may actually be straight. This issue comes up once again when the suspected murderer/rapist is in interrogation. Olivia pretends she is a lesbian in order to get a confession out of him: Olivia: â€Å"You know how to correct us you’ve got everything you need to make me a real woman right between your legs –† Suspect: â€Å"and you’d love it just like those other two [victims] did – every moment of it† While this scene may be laid out this way specifically to show the demented thinking of the rapist/murderer, the notion that a lesbian can be â€Å"corrected† or made straight as well the idea that rape victims enjoy being raped are never addressed and corrected. The audience is never informed about how inaccurate these views are. With all this said, the homosexual viewer tends to be somewhat accepting of the images in Grey’s and Law and Order, because as Clare Whatling puts it â€Å"we’re [the lesbian population] so starved, we go see anything because something is better than nothing† (86). Thus, because of the lack of representation, lesbians are more willing to accept inaccurate portrayals. This is troublesome because such images can potentially be detrimental to lesbian’s self perceptions and they’re all the more vulnerable because of the relative disparity of lesbianism in mainstream culture. In conclusion, lesbianism in mainstream television is poorly and inaccurately represented. While shows like Grey’s Anatomy and Law and Order: SVU, have taken steps towards representing lesbians in mainstream media, we have to be careful to assess how big these steps really are. There are several issues with the representations of lesbians in these shows, some of which are addressed in this paper, others which have been left untouched. Thus, there is still a long way to go and many hurdles to surmount before lesbians can be done justice in mainstream media.

Comparing Patricia MacLachlan and Laura Ingalls Wilder :: Compare Contrast Comparison

Comparing Patricia MacLachlan and Laura Ingalls Wilder Comparing Patricia MacLachlan and Laura Ingalls Wilder is not an easy task. Both writers have excelled in their writing and their books are completely different. The way Sarah, Plain and Tall and The Little House Series depict realism, details, and time frame sets them apart from each other. I also chose these two authors because both Sarah and Little House are set in the 19th century. The topics are also very similar. I am comparing their differences in realism, amount of detail, and time frame of story. Wilder’s Little House series would be considered realistic fiction while Sarah is just fiction. The reason is because Wilder used her own childhood experiences growing up on the plains and during the nineteenth century and expanded on them to create the series. MacLachlan did not grow up in the nineteenth century but in the twentieth so much of her story comes from research and creativity. It is easy to understand this from the reading. Wilder writes: â€Å"Each of them had a tin plate, and a steel knife and a steel fork with white bone handles.† This is what families had during the trip on the plains. This is the realism in Little House that is not seen in Sarah. My next comparison is the difference in amount of detail. Wilder uses more explanatory detail in her series. She re-accounts everything from her younger days as a child on the plains with her parents to how to build a roof. â€Å"Pa reached down and pulled up a slab. He laid it across the ends of the sapling rafters. Its edges stuck out beyond the wall. Then Pa put some nails in his mouth and took his hammer out of his belt, and began to nail the slab to the rafters.† In this quote we see the amount of detail and explanation by Wilder. In Sarah, the reader knows the family fixed the roof but does not learn how it is done. â€Å"I am fast and I am good said,† said Sarah. And they climbed the ladder to the roof, Sarah with wisps of hair around her face, her mouth full of nails, overalls like Papa’s.† In this quote we see that it is the emotional detail. Readers see more of this in Sarah. MacLachlan writes on how Sarah misses the sea and her brother and how sh e wanted to prove her ability by helping with the roof.

Othello’s Physical and Psychological Journeys :: GCSE English Literature Coursework

Othello’s Physical and Psychological Journeys  Ã‚   Othello is the tragedy, and, incidentally, the name of a Moor who serves as a general in the Italian military. He spends the first act of Shakespeare’s play in Venice, but is ordered shortly to Cyprus to fight the Turkish invasion. His journey isn’t officially noticeable at all in the play. One moment he’s defending himself in the Senate of Venice, the next he’s in Cyprus, taking credit for being victorious in a battle the storms fought for him against the Turks. The story unravels from there. His soon-to-be-lieutenant, Iago, whispers in his ear about his wife, Desdemona, and the unforgivable crime of adultery, throwing Othello’s orderly world to the winds of fate. ......Still, if the starting point and destination of Othello’s initial journey were to be compared to Othello’s psychological journey throughout the play (and, more importantly, the development of his relationship with the villain, Iago), they are found to be startlingly similar. Whether Shakespeare intended the parallel or not, and there isn’t really any sure way to tell, the coincidence is great. ......Venice, where the story starts, is a place of order, rich and wonderful. Likewise, Othello’s relationship with Iago is shown by the third scene of Act One to be, on the surface, based on honesty, respect, and admiration. He says, as he prepares to lead the ships to war: â€Å"honest Iago, my Desdemona must I leave to thee.† (1.3.336) While it may seem naà ¯ve for Othello to do such a thing when trouble is obviously brewing and the sense of foreshadowing is nearly tangible, the reader must keep in mind that Venice is an orderly, respected city and the General’s relationship with Iago can be summed up neatly in one sentence spoken by Brabantio: ......â€Å"This is Venice. My house is not a grange.† (1.1.119) ......But while Venice is certainly not a grange, there is plenty going on behind the scenes. One could even argue that Iago’s first scene when he incites Desdemona’s father to go and take revenge on Othello by using racist and bestial slurs is very similar to the first talks of war in the Senate and the general being told he must leave his homeland to defend Cyprus from the Turks. ......â€Å"An old black ram is tupping your white ewe,† (1.1.98) Iago shouts to Brabantio, at the same moment that Othello is being informed of his new assignment.

Obeying a Lawful Order

Army value â€Å"DUTY† In this essay you will learn about one of the most important Army value â€Å"Duty†. In this essay i will be talking about a few diffrent topics that correnspond with the Army value â€Å"Duty†. In this essy you read 3 diffrent stories about how soldiers did there duty and then i will give you 3 stories on how not doing your duty as soldier affects the team. You will also read about leadership duty and how it can either help the lower enlisted or break the lower enlisted. So be prepeared to get some knowledge dropped on and also to learn how you as a leader should think about how it affects joe. Story 1: this story is about a young soldier who was some what squared away. He has been in the army for almost 2 years. During this time in the army he has been smoked, negitived couseled, and even a article 15. So this soldier has been slammed but he didnt get discouraged he kept his head up rolled with the punches and realized he dont have to stay in the army. So where does this story fit in? I know you are asking yourself this question as you read this essay well im about to explian it to you. Okay now back to the story, the soldier was three months away from his ets date and he was happy, excited, shit he even stop showing up for pt, and he had some celebration marry Jane. So this soldier was content on getting out because he felt that the army was not him and it was best to part there ways. So he's a week out and september 11 happens so he runs to the rention officer and reinlist because he knows that it was war time and it wasnt about just hime and his feeling about the army. His counrty was attacked and he took and oath to protect it so he put his personal feeling aside yeah he could have easly hit the yellow brick road, and chucked up the duces as he skipped his happy ass down the road. But he did beleave strongly about the army values and he had to preform his duty as soldier and an american. So this story 1 hold all questions comments and concerns untill i finish. Story 2: This story is about a medal of honor winner. The winner iof this award was in special forces his son is a good friend of sargent o'b. This guy was bad ass he was awared 8 purple hearts two bronze stars with valor and the two bronze stars was orginally metal of honor nominations but was down graded because the mission they accured on was top secert and couldnt be exposed. So the day he recieved his metal of honor he was on a mission and they were pinned down and he recieved the message over the radio that he one the medal of honor some say who ever gave him that message should be shot because he was in a damn fire fight butafter recieving the message he was wounded and that is how he recieved his 8th purple heart. The story of how he recieved his perstigeous award goes like this. Col howard johnson was on a mission his whole team was wounded or dead he was also wounded by a grenade which blew his intestants out he packed his intestants back in his stomach and was holding it in with his left hand, as he was doing this he started to carry out his wounded battle buddies so they can get medivaced he got all of them to the LZ before the birds got there help load them and was the last damn soldier to get on the bird now that takes major guts and all the army values and more. Story 3: â€Å"This story about a soldier who was not honorably discharged from the army. with a little bit of research shows that he was a failure who could not hack the military even in a real echelon slot, and he was booted from the Army for smoking pot after unsuccessfully attempting to get an early discharge. So he didn’t honorably do his duty and earn our respect like his unwashed peers would claim. And his Other Than Honorable Discharge is probably why he’s claiming to be homeless (while jetting to Washington DC from his home in Alaska) instead of using the GI benefits that every honorably discharged vet is entitled to and finding a job or going to school. This soldier is now homeless and is seeking help. â€Å"-(resource new paper article) I know personally that we make mistakes. Even though we make mistakes that does not give society the right to peg us as useless, dirtbags, and all other word they use for so called bad soldiers. t takes alot of guts to join the army durning the time of war and sometimes you make mistakes no matter how big the mistake is we are still human and we make human errors. I belieave in god and i know for a fact that we are not perfect and god forgives us for not being perfect. So take a second and think before you label a soldier a dirtbag and try to help that soldier get over the fence, we are all brothers in arms and we have to take care o f each other. Story 4: This is a story about a soldier who did not for fill his duty in the Army.

Book Response : Elie Wiesel “Night” Essay

Rianna Welsh 622 Book: â€Å"Night† by Elie Wiesel 1. Does the story have an explicit theme? What is it? Use at least 3 details from the story to support your answer. Yes, the book does have an explicit theme. There are many examples of the explicit themes .Some of the themes are * Death- Death was shown through the loss of loved ones, especially when Elie lost his entire family to the concentration camp. It was also shown through the hurtful torture that happened, and the decaying smell of dead bodies penetrating in the prisoner’s noses. * Faith- Elie’s father told Elie to never lose his faith of his religion and that it would help him through everything that was bound to happen, and keep him strong. First Elie wasn’t sure of his faith. He thought if there was a God, then why did he create the situation that they were in. * Hatred – The Nazi’s acted with a lot hatred against the Jews, Gypsies, Ghettos, and many others who stood in their way. They killed and tortured because of hatred. The hate succeeded over all. 1. What point of view is the story told? What are the advantages of the chosen point of view? Use details from the text to support your answer. The point of view is told by Eliezer (a slightly fictionalized version of Elie Wiesel). Eliezer speaks in the first person and always relates to the autobiographical events from his perspective (point of view). He said â€Å"Never shall I forget that night, the first night in camp, which has turned my life into one long night, seven times cursed and seven times sealed.† Followed by him saying â€Å"Never shall I forget that smoke. Never shall I forget the little faces of the children, whose bodies I saw turned into wreaths of smoke beneath a silent blue sky.† Finally he finished by saying â€Å"Never shall I forget those flames which consumed my faith forever. Never shall I forget that nocturnal silence which deprived me, for all eternity, of the desire to live. Never shall I forget those moments which murdered my God and my soul and turned my dreams to dust. Never shall I forget these things, even if I am condemned to live as long as God Himself.†

The Role Money Plays

Critical Text-Based Analysis Money plays a vital role in Bahamian society. Throughout the years our governments have placed our cultural identity at risk. They negotiated contracts and decisions based on our country’s financial circumstances. It is evident that our islands are truly â€Å"up for sale† but this can have drastic effects. As the years go by The Bahama Islands are being sold for the naturalness of what they are and are being transformed into something different.Nowadays, there are more aspects of American culture rather than Bahamian culture on display. If this continues our country will eventually succumb to the hands of its main financial provider, the United States. The Bahamas is too dependent on other societies and if we don’t change our mindsets our culture would be destroyed. Immigration has become a major issue in Bahamian society. Many migrants travel here searching for a better way of life. Their values and customs have greatly influenced o ur society.This was indicated by the author in paragraph three, â€Å"Abaco is called ‘Wcylef Jean Refuge’ after its new owner, the Haitian hip-hop superstar, while white Abaconians steam in lobster-red fury at the fact that their land could now be owned by a Haitian. † This agitated the natives of Abaco because their beloved island is now owned by a Haitian. In the Bahamas, Haitians are populating our islands in vast amounts and are influencing our culture. This has led to clashes among the societies which have caused a negative opinion of them. This evidence proves that our native culture is on decline and must be preserved.The Bahamas is known as a tourism country. Most of our income comes from the tourism industry. This has allowed our country to become a popular tourist destination. However the government constantly jeopardizes our main source of revenue. This was stated in paragraph 6, â€Å"Dead dolphins and whales beach daily like drowned slaves. † As a result of signing the Pipeline Contract, many tourists travelled to other countries due to the pollution of the ocean. This was emphasized in paragraph eight when he mentioned how Cuba took over as the number one tourist destination.In addition, Bahamians escaped to Cuba to avoid working under poor conditions at the amusement park and factories. This is quite ironic considering Bahamians love to travel to other countries for their amusement parks. The industry further declined when Junaknoo was abolished in 2015. It was no longer of tradition but of a trend. This was displayed in the twelfth paragraph, â€Å"A thoroughly diluted version on Junkanoo, Junkanoo Lite, is currently serving as the official mascot of the Miami Dolphins. † These instances show how our culture is constantly placed at risk.The writer used various rhetorical techniques to enhance his message. He used similes and euphemisms to give his piece appeal. In addition, the use of sarcasm and humor strengt hened his purpose. Our society is becoming a replica of America. We are adopting customs and policies that are not our own. As indicated by the author our nation is losing its identity. This produced serious consequences in the future which inhibited our growth as an independent nation. Our governments should not sacrifice our culture for money but endeavor to save this special gem.

Final Strategic Plan Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Final Strategic Plan - Essay Example Also, the strategy designed by the firm should be highly compatible to provide the needed push to the organization so that it can gain leverage out of the potential business opportunities existing in the market, while using the firm’s existing strengths and resources. In the current times, the trend is to design strategic objectives which are SMART in nature. To be more specific, SMART framework stands for factors like specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (Frey & Osterloh, 2002, p. 234). In this particular case, it needs to be identified that the existing opportunities of Super Fit Gym are the factors of potential growth of the population in the upcoming days as well as the highly convenient pricing of the firms’ services. Hence, the following strategies can be designed: 1. The first strategy will be to continuously engage in the process of marketing so as to create awareness about the Gym’s services. 2. The second strategy will be to engage in recruiting highly experienced and skilled trainers and experts, so as to provide the best gym services to the customers. 3. The third strategy will be to engage in the process of designing a highly attractive promotion package (Verma, 2012, p. 614). 4. The final strategy will be to periodically engage in customer satisfaction survey and introduce necessary changes in the service offerings that are required from time to time. Implementation of the strategies While concentrating on the process of implementation of the strategies, it needs to be stated that the SMART factors need to be implemented to the maximum extent possible. Hence, talking in regard to the first strategy, it can be said that for the purpose of value communication of the services, Super Fit Gym, to the desired target audience, a proper marketing campaign needs to be executed. While engaging in the marketing campaign, the gym should set a time line of around 45 days for execution. The second strategy discusses th e factor of recruiting experts and highly experienced trainers. For this, the Gym can conduct performance based recruitment. This particular move will help Super Fit Gym to acquire high quality human resources who will be acting as the main deliverer of services and who will be highly critical in the developing the brand factor as well as customer satisfaction of the target audience. The third strategy, which talks about promotion, needs to be executed in phase by phase manner. In order to gather members of the target audience in a rapid note, the gym should consider providing price discount on the memberships to the customers who opt for early registrations. These promotion based discounts need to be rolled for a period of two weeks in a time period of every three months. This will help in attracting new customers to the fitness organization. The fourth strategy needs to be conducted for measuring customers’ satisfaction. For measurement of the value of the services, the fit ness organization should be conducting satisfaction surveys after the end of every two months from the firm’s existing customers. Actions to address ethical, legal, and regulatory issues Since Super Fit Gym provides service based offerings to the customers, the values and services provided are

Convictions and Pardons in Juvenile Justice System Essay

Convictions and Pardons in Juvenile Justice System - Essay Example It could also be enforced by a parole board to an offender after serving time in jail. This type of sanction is often given to individuals who have committed a crime but poses no serious threat to public safety (Alarid & Del Carmen, 2008). By engaging individuals to community corrections instead of serving time in prison, over-population problems in jails are answered, community service work is increased, and collection of fines and fees are increased because offenders are allowed to remain in their present jobs, thereby alleviating the budget constraints of the correctional department (Nieto, 1996). Several community-based programs are being implemented by the government. These services are designed for intervention and prevention of the specific problem of the offender. The judges evaluate the offender according to the offender’s behavior, previous records, and the risk to re-offend. The court then chooses the sanction specific for an individual following a uniform and structured judgment. Examples of these are sanctions and therapies for alcohol and drug abuse; mental health; sex offenders; domestic violence; cognitive restructuring; and anger management (Barton-Bellessa & Hanser, 2012). The goal of the structured sentencing is to match the offender with the appropriate penalties or prevention services. For example, juveniles who are school drop-outs or those who are members of youth gangs are â€Å"at risk† of committing criminal cases in the future are being required to go under prevention programs such as midnight basketball leagues, big brother programs, special education, and other activities. Another type of program is the intervention program, which usually benefits first-time offenders. They are required to attend early intervention services to reduce the chances of re-offending.

Things about me that might surprise people Essay

Things about me that might surprise people - Essay Example Going out with my friends is indeed a pleasure for me so that I try my best to join them in every activity they invite me in. I love shopping with my friends, going to the mall, checking the latest fashion there is in store for us. I also love to watch movies with them which we practically do almost every time we meet. This gives us much time to know each other more as we talk about our favorite movies, actors and other things we enjoy. Spending much time with my friends allowed me to discover that we have so much in common, our likes and dislikes as well as people we would like to meet. People usually see me as outgoing and indefatigable because of this so, I guess they would be surprised to know that I am the extreme opposite of what they see in me. I usually easily get tired so that I sleep a lot to get my energy back. Whenever I get the chance to take a little rest, even a ten minute nap would be much appreciated and often times welcomed. I believe that people are a treasure that I need to keep so I consider myself sentimental in many ways. I value time spent with friends, I keep their gifts in a rather special place which I call my treasure box. In a world where friends come and go, life is fast-paced and yesterday usually seems to be a thing to be forgotten once you are in a day called today, I guess people will be surprised to find a person like me, still exists. I am basically a simple person whose sentiments are more on things that are considered back numbered.

How to prevent Military Drill Sergeants from making the unethical Research Paper

How to prevent Military Drill Sergeants from making the unethical decision to Fraternize with Trainees - Research Paper Example eant who is an expert in the warrior duties and the in the battle drills is expected to live the values of the army by showing the warrior ethos which is the epitome of the army profession (Long, 2008). A military drill sergeant is expected to be responsible for coaching, providing counseling and giving mentorship to too many thousands of soldiers as he or she changes them from being a civilian to a ready soldier. A military drill sergeant starts his work before dawn and his with the soldiers throughout the day. Being a military drill sergeant, the soldiers’ looks up to you as the only person they know in the army. The soldiers always try to copy you in everything you do. Being a military drill sergeant is very difficult. The job is very demanding and can be attributed to the several tasks that are to be fulfilled. Just the same, way you will remember your military drill sergeant is the same way your soldiers will. It is for this reason that it is your duty to make sure you give a positive and a rewarding experience to the soldiers who are starting their journey in the army. Everything you do to the soldiers will affect them throughout their lives (Baker, 2008). There are different reasons that are attached to mistreatment of trainees by the military drill sergeants. The main reason why this happens is the notion since they were also mistreated they will have to do the same to others. It is a sort of revenge that the drill sergeants undertake. At other times, the chain is usually commanding from the highest order to the lowest order. The people in the higher ranks mistreat those who are under them. This continues in a chain until the lowest order where the military drill sergeants mistreat the trainees and their property. Gender also leads to mistreatment of some trainees. Male military drill sergeants feel that they should use the female trainees for their personal desires. This in most cases leads to cases of rape that become hard to handle. In addition,

A Systems Approach to Planning, Scheduling, and Controlling in Corwin Outline

A Systems Approach to Planning, Scheduling, and Controlling in Corwin Corporation - Outline Example 8. Lack of team unity: The supervisors demonstrated weak leadership by abandoning members of their team and engaged in a blame-game which led to conflict amongst the team, thereby negatively affecting project outcomes.8. Lack of team unity: The supervisors demonstrated weak leadership by abandoning members of their team and engaged in a blame-game which led to conflict amongst the team, thereby negatively affecting project outcomes.9. Unskilled employees: The lack of skilled participants for the project jeopardized the quality of decisions made (in this case the faulty decision of accepting the project by violating cost margins in support of the client).2. Poor external communication: Internal stakeholders were not taken into confidence along with no clear guidelines as to who has authority for the project led to conflicts, confusion and lack of unanimous direction.3. Weaknesses in corporate culture: As per Corwin’s culture, employees did not feel the need to alert their super iors in case of critical data which led to ignorance of underlying problems and ultimate failure.1. Delayed engagement of line managers in the process: Corwin’s line managers were unable to provide their inputs during the proposal that could have influenced it and could have given a clearer picture beforehand.2. Poor procurement decision: Corwin’s decision to procure raw materials before the contract was signed which exposed the company to financial risk in case anything went wrong prior to the contract signing.3. Poorly planned change management process: Testing process was continuously altered which led to inconsistent results and increased costs for Corwin.

Celebrity Endorser Influence Essay Example for Free

Celebrity Endorser Influence Essay Celebrity Endorser Influence on Attitude Toward Advertisements and Brands Bahram Ranjbarian Associate Professor of management, Department of Management The University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran E-mail: Bahram1 [emailprotected] Zahra Shekarchizade Master Student of Business Management, Department of Management University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran E-mail: [emailprotected] Zahra Momeni Master Student of Business Management, Department of Management University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran E-mail: [emailprotected] Abstract Purpose- This study aims to analyze the celebrity endorser influence on attitude toward advertisements and brands. Design/methodology/approach – A theoretical model is developed and tested with a sample of 193 students in University of Isfahan in 2009. Structural equation modeling was used with LISREL 8.50 and the maximum likelihood (ML) method. Findings – The findings show that attitude toward celebrity endorser can influence on attitude toward brand directly or indirectly. In indirectly approach, attitude toward advertisement is as a mediator between attitude toward celebrity endorser and attitude toward brand. On the other hand, attitude toward celebrity endorser has not significant effect on purchase intention. Originality/value – This paper provides a model connecting attitude toward celebrity endorser, attitude toward advertisement and attitude toward brand that has been examined and validated using a sample of students in University of Isfahan. Paper type- Research paper Keywords: Endorsement, Celebrities, Brand, Attitude, Advertisement Introduction Today one of the most prevalent forms of retail advertising is through using of celebrity endorsement (White et al, 2007). In fact celebrity endorsers are being used in about 25 percent of all television advertisements in order to promote brands (Erdogan et al, 2001).These endorsers are being paid by about 10 percent of advertisers budgets (Agrawal and Kamakura, 1995). Marketers invest huge amounts of money in contracts with celebrity endorsers each year, since they believe that celebrities affect the process of selling of their brands or products (Katyal, 2007). A celebrity endorser is a wellknown person (e.g., actors, sports figures and artists) because of his successes in a special field other than the endorsed product class (James, 2004). Celebrity endorsers are used by firms who want to 399 European Journal of Social Sciences – Volume 13, Number 3 (2010) support a product or service (Amos et al, 2008). Since presence of celebrity endorsers affects purchase decisions of consumers positively, producers and retailers have always preferred to use celebrity endorsements in order to sell their products (Stafford et al, 2003; Erdogan, 1999; Kamins, 1990). Kaikati (1987) believes that using of celebrities in advertisements could have many benefits and advantages including: 1) facilitating of brand identification 2) changing or impressing the negative attitude towards a brand 3) repositioning an existing brand 4) global marketing or positioning of a brand or product 5) affecting purchase intentions of consumers. Although using of celebrity endorsers as brand messengers is impressive, but it could have some risks. For instance, celebrities who are known to be guilty because of negative events (e.g., accident) may have harmful effects on the products that they endorse (Lou ie and Obermiller, 2002). Studies reveal that using of attractive celebrity causes to increase attitude towards advertisements. Such attitude towards advertisements is defined as mental states which are used by individuals to organize the way they perceive their environment and control the way they respond to it (Haghirian, 2004). There is a considerable correlation between desirable attitudes with regard to advertising and rating of certain advertisements by respondents as being likeable, irritating, delightful, etc (Bauer and Greyser, 1968). Celebrity endorsers enhance awareness of a companys advertising, create positive feelings towards brands and are perceived by consumers as more amusing (Solomon, 2002). Thus using of a celebrity in advertising causes to influence brand attitude and purchase intentions of consumers in a positive way. Celebrity endorsement has a strong effect on consumers memory and learning approach too. Most consumers are not in a purchasing situation when they are encounter with message of the brand. Marketers use celebrity endorsement in order to help better storage of information in consumers minds which they can easily remember in purchasing situations (Schultz and Brens, 1995). However, there are many studies about celebrity endorser, but it seems that there are limited researches about the relationship between celebrity endorser and attitudes. The purpose of this study is to specify the impact of using celebrity endorsers in Iranian advertisements on attitudes of students in University of Isfahan toward those ads and brands. Literature Review Some properties such as likeability, expertise, trustworthiness and similarity cause a celebrity endorser to become a source of persuasive information and this creates a sense of certainty which has been revealed in many studies (Suranaa, 2008). Also physical attractiveness of the endorser is considerable in effectiveness of a message (Khatri, 2006). Acceptance of a message by a receiver could be influenced by celebrity endorsers as believable sources of information about a product or a firm (Amos et al, 2008). Using of celebrity endorsers to support products is explained by balance theory principles too. According to this theory, successful companies establish an emotional relation between the observer and endorser and a relation between endorser and brand too (Mowen, 2000). Before proceeding conceptual model, we describe the main constructs of this study. Celebrity Endorser McCracken (1998) has defined celebrity endorser as any individual who enjoys public cognition and who uses this cognition on behalf of a consumer by appearing wit in an advertisement. Moreover, celebrity is used as testimonial, endorsement, actor or spokesperson by the firm. Research has demonstrated that celebrity endorsement affects consumers feelings in general and it could affect the attitude of consumers towards the advertisement and brands too. This could result in enhancing of purchase intentions and as a result enhancing of sales. Some properties like credibility, physical attractiveness and likeability of celebrity endorser influence the ability of one person to impact other person (Amos et al, 2008). Source credibility is referred to identifying of communicators positive properties which influences acceptance of a message by the receiver (Ohanian, 1990). This consists of two main dimensions of expertise and 400 European Journal of Social Sciences – Volume 13, Number 3 (2010) trustworthiness. Source expertise refers to the degree which a communicator is perceived to be a source of valid assertion (Roozen, 2008). Source trustworthiness refers to faithfulness and reliability of the spokesperson (Khatri, 2006). Source attractiveness is the personality, likeability and similarity of endorsers to the receiver, thus to the perceived social values of the source (Solomon, 2002). Physical attractiveness of the source include being attractive, beautiful, elegant and charming. According to the studies in this ground, expertise dimension is more significant than physical attractiveness for matching of a brand with a suitable endorser (Brian and Michael, 1998). Likeability is referred to the positive or negative feelings that consumers have towards a source of information. We can define likeability as affection for the source because of its physical appearance and behavior (Erdogan, 1999). Though some research results reveal effectiveness of celebrities as endorsers (Freiden, 1984), but other researches suggest that celebrity endorsement may have different degrees of effectiveness depending on other factors like the fit between the celebrity and the advertised product (Till and Shimp, 1998). Celebrity Endorsers Effect on Aad and Ao Marketers are especially interested in consumers attitudes towards advertisements and brands. Essentially, attitudes are our predispositions with regard to things. An attitude shows whether we like something or not. Attitudes have three basic components: affective, cognitive and behavioral. Affective is related to our liking or feelings about an object. Cognitive is referred to beliefs about an object and behavioral component regards actions we take about that object (Severin and Tankard, 2001). Attitude towards advertisement is defined as a learned tendency to respond in a consistently desirable or undesirable approach toward advertising in general (Haghirian, 2004). On the other side, attitude towards the advertisement (Aad) is whether the consumer likes an advertisement (Ad) or hates it. Determinants of Aad consist of attitude towards the advertiser, assessment of the Ad execution itself, the mood evoked by Ad, and the extent to which the Ad affect viewers encouragement. Assessment of brands could be influenced by attitudes towards Ads. Of course what causes an advertisement to be impressive will change noticeably cross-culturally (Arnold et al, 2004). In performed studies, Aad is focused on as a mediator of advertisers effects on brand attitudes and purchase intentions (Suhere and Ispir, 2009). In recent studies, this issue has been proved that using of celebrity endorsement has a positive impact on attitudes of the consumer towards products and brands with which they are associated brand (Seno and Lukas, 2005). Agarwal and Malhotra (2005) have defined brand attitude as consumers general evaluative judgment of a brand based on brand beliefs. Such beliefs concern product-related attributes, like practical and experimental benefits. A successful endorser is able to enhance intentions and preferences towards brands directly or indirectly. An endorser who has major source factors of credibility (like expertise, trustworthiness and effectiveness) is able to impress purchase intentions of the consumer considerably (Liu et al, 2007). Information from a credible source can impress ideas, attitudes and behavior through a process called internalization (Belch and Belch, 1993). Internalization occurs when the receiver is motivated to have an issue. The receiver learns and accepts the idea of the credible spokesperson, since he supposes that information of this person represents an accurate position on the issue. Therefore, if such spokesperson who is known to be an expert endorses a product, consumers will more probably have a desirable idea about that advertisement and brand and they will consider it in their shopping list the next time they go shopping. Researchers have used the identification process of social influence in order to explain the effectiveness of celebrity endorsers (Basil, 1996). This theory suggests that if an individual identifies with another individual, then he is more likely to accept an attitude or behavior of that individual or a group. The internalization process of social influence is occurred when an individual accepts influence because the induced behavior is congruent with his value system†. An individual accepts the influence, since it provides a solution to a problem (Daneshvary and Schwer, 2000). In the elaboration likelihood model (ELM), individuals level of motivation to process central message arguments is represented which is one of its key factors that affects the relative impact of 401 European Journal of Social Sciences – Volume 13, Number 3 (2010) central and peripheral processing (Petty and Cacioppo, 1986). When applied to an adverting context, ELM suggests that consumers motivation to centrally process brand-relevant aspects of an advertisement is enhanced, the impact of central processing on brand attitudes should be enhanced, the effect of peripheral processing on brand attitudes should be reduced and the effect of brand attitudes on purchase intentions should be enhanced (Lafferty and Goldsmith, 1999). In this theoretical model, the endorser serves as cue just during peripheral processing. Therefore, the effect of the endorser should be reduced while central processing is enhanced. Mackenzie and Lutz (1989) have stated that advertiser credibility is a central processing cue more than any other thing. Credibility of the source is considered important in influence acceptance. A consumer will accept the accurate influence (information) and apply it if t here the source is perceived to be credible. It is accepted because it is demand by ones own values. Therefore, a products endorsement by a credible source may impress purchase behavior (Danwshvary and Schwer, 2000). As a result, celebrity endorsement can increase the process of recalling and consume assessment of products (Khatri, 2006). On the other hand, celebrity endorsement has a severe effect on learning approach and memory. Researchers in the field of marketing and social psychology have studied the manner of impressing of purchase decision by celebrity endorsements. Various hypotheses have been proposed including having recall of the product by celebrity endorsement, celebrities have credibility on expertise that makes the product more desirable or increases perceptions of quality; the celebrity endorsers image is transferred to the product so that those who use the product are associated with the image. Experiments suggest that celebrity endorsement can increase recall and consume assessment of the products in certain situations (Clark and Horstman, 2003). Most of the times, making connection with the brand message is occurred when consumers are not in a purchasing situation. Marketers use celebrity endorsement so that information will be kept in consumers minds better and in the case of purchasing situation, they can easily retrieve it (Surana, 2008). A successful endorser strategy can enhance the level of consumers recalling towards product information, reinforces consumers recognition to endorsed brands, positively influences consumers attitude to low-involved products and even enhance consumers purchase intention and preference towards brands (Liu et al, 2007) Therefore, hypothesizes of the study are as follows. H1: Attitude toward ad is positively affected by attitude toward celebrity endorser. H2: Attitude toward brand is positively affected by attitude toward celebrity endorser H3: Attitude toward brand is positively affected by attitude toward advertisement. H4: Intention to buy is positively affected by attitude toward celebrity endorser Method Data Collection Information was obtained from randomly selected students from University of Isfahan through survey questionnaires during September- November 2009. University of Isfahan is one of the major universities in the fields of science, human science and engineering. A total sample of 193 participants was obtained. The sample was composed of 137 women (71 percent) and 56 men (21 percent). A cluster sampling procedure with age and degree as main control variables was applied. The age of the respondents ranged from 19 to 30 years, with a mean of 24. All questionnaires were self-administered by the participants without interference from researchers. Measures The study uses multi-item scales to measure the constructs in our model. All items in the questionnaire were measured on a five-point Likert-type scale anchored from â€Å"strongly disagree† (1) to â€Å"strongly agree† (5). Some of the measures were available in the literature, though most were adapted to suit this European Journal of Social Sciences – Volume 13, Number 3 (2010) particular context. To measure attitude toward celebrity endorser we used ten items. Attitude toward advertisement and attitude toward brand were measured with six items and five items, respectively. In order to measure reliability of questions in the questionnaire, 30 questionnaires have been pre-tested through pilot studies. Then, amount of confidence coefficient has been calculated by method of Cronbachs alpha for which 0.83 % is obtained. This number shows that the applied questionnaire enjoys confidentiality or in other words the necessary reliability. Results Measurement Model Measurement model Structural equation modeling with LISREL 8.54 and the maximum likelihood (ML) method was used to analyse the data.. LISREL is a structural equations modeling technique that traces structural relations in a set of data (Eriksson et al, 2004). Structural equation modelling was used because it allows to estimate multiple and interrelated dependence relationships and unobserved factors can be represented in these relationships. Additionally, measurement error in the estimation process is accounted for (Hair et al., 1998). The model is assessed with the comparative fit index (CFI), standardised root meanresidual (SRMR), root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA), and Akaike’s (1987) information criterion (AIC). The measurement model provided a good fit to the data: (CFI = 0:98, SRMR=0.058, RMSEA = 0.015 and AIC =396.22). All values of CFI, SRMR, and RMSEA meet the standards suggested by Hu and Bentler (1999): 0.95 for CFI, 0.08 for SRMR, and 0.06 for RMSEA.There are no Guidelines for the AIC but lower values indicate better fit. The fit of the structural model is good and is reported in Table I. In the following we will test our hypotheses and consequently report the standardised path coefficients. As shown in Table I, three of hypotheses are empirically supported and one of them is not confirmed. The effect of attitude toward celebrity endorser on attitude toward advertisement is significant (standardised path coefficient = 0:49). This shows that the higher the attitude toward endorser, the more the attitude toward advertisement. Attitude toward celebrity endorser also have significant effect on attitude toward brand (standardised path coefficient= 0.24), but this effect is comparatively weaker than its effect on attitude toward advertisement. On the other hand, the effect of attitude toward advertisement on attitude toward brand is significant (standardised path coefficient = 0:56). This clearly shows that attitude toward advertisement has the highest standardized path coefficient and therefore has the strongest influence on attitude toward brand. The results show that the effects of attitude celebrity endorser on Purchase intention is not significant (standardised path coefficient = 0.11). This means that attitud toward celebrities, does not necessarily always translates into purchase intentions. Discussion The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship among attitude toward celebrity endorser and attitude toward advertisement and brand. Effects of a celebrity endorser on respondents assessments about advertisements and products endorsed by celebrities have been studied previously. There are some interesting findings for using of celebrity endorsers in Iranian advertisements. Attitude towards a celebrity endorser has a direct positive effect on attitude towards advertisement. Attitude towards advertisement has important effects on attitude towards brands, too and its effect is comparatively stronger than the effect of celebrity endorser. But the effect of attitude toward celebrity endorser on purchase intention is not considerable. Results of this study demonstrate that attitude towards celebrity endorser has an indirect effect on attitude towards brand. This result confirms outcomes of the previous research by Agarwal and Kamakura (1995), Till and Busler (1998), and White et al (2008). When there is a fit between the   European Journal of Social Sciences – Volume 13, Number 3 (2010) endorser and the endorsed product, endorsers image helps construct the image of the brand in consumers minds. In fact, using of an attractive endorser has a positive impact on consumer attitudes towards a brand, because attractive endorsers have a tendency to get more attention than less attractive ones. On the other hand, experience of celebritys negative information can have an undesirable effect on the endorsed product. Transfer of negative information between the celebrity endorser and the endorsed product could be facilitated through cognitive relational pathway. We have considered social position of artists because people have more positive attitude towards artists. So, they distribute attitude towards artists to attitude towards endorsed brand. The association between attitude towards celebrity endorser and attitude towards advertisement has been shown in numerous studies, as the relationship between sports celebrity endorsements and retail products adverting are reported (White et al, 2008) and sports celebrity endorsements are being used in advertisements to impress brand selection. It is recognized in one study that attitude towards advertisement is considered as an interagent that influences attitude towards brand (Suhere and Ispir, 2009). Results of our study reveal that attitude towards advertisement is as an interagent between attitude towards celebrity and attitude towards brand. In our opinion, Iranians are interested in artists and know them as credible sources. So, ads makers use artists as celebrity to impress viewers attitudes towards advertisement and thereupon attitude towards brand. According to previous studies about the effect of the celebrity endorser on purchase intentions, such as Kamins (1990), Ohanian (1991), Liu et al (2007), we expected that positive attitude towards celebrities impressed purchase intentions. But results of this study confirm research outcomes of OMahony and Meenaghan (1997). According to this study, attitude towards celebrities does not necessarily always interpret in to purchase intentions. It seems that Iranians consumer tendency for buying is influenced by other various items such as age, gender, income and education too. Limitation This study has some limitations. The primary limitation of the present research relates to generalizability. The sample was restricted to students in University of Isfahan and this limits our results to be generalized, too. Another relevant consideration is that numerous girl students in university of Isfahan are more than its boy students. Also, this study relied exclusively on questionnaires to assess influence attitude toward celebrity endorser on attitude toward advertisements and brands, whereas this relationships need to be more investigated. On the other hand, this paper could not estimate effect of attitude toward celebrity endorser on purchase intention. In addition, our results are relational and not causal; therefore, it can not be concluded from this study whether attitude toward advertisement and brand is only cause or result of attitude toward celebrity endorser. Conclusion In this study the goal was to indicate the influence of using celebrity endorsers in Iranian advertisements on attitudes of students in University of Isfahan toward those advertisements and brands. The result of this study showed that the positive and significant relationship between attitude toward celebrity endorser and attitude toward advertisements and brands. By analyzing the output resulting from testing hypotheses, it can be concluded that attitude toward celebrity endorser has directly or indirectly influence on attitude toward brand. Consequences suggested that attitude toward advertisement was as a mediator between attitude toward celebrity endorser and attitude toward brand. On the other hand, attitude toward celebrity endorser hadn’t significant influence on purchase intention. So, future researches should put more effort into making strong believable explanations for how celebrity endorsers are able to have significant influence on consumer intention for purchase. References [1] [2] Agrawal, J. and Kamakura, W.A. 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