The Effect of Globalization on Anthropology Essay

The Effect of Globalization on Anthropology - Essay Example This research tells that globalization has been characterized by rapid technological developments (especially in telecommunications and the development of the Internet) that have made it less difficult for people around the world to travel, communicate and conduct business dealings on the global basis. Technology is transforming the world. The market for telecommunications has crossed the $ 1 trillion mark, highlighted by the United States’ $ 150 billion in Latin America. Spurred on by two giant pro-globalization organizations, The World Trade Organization and the World Economic Forum, globalization is becoming a more and more common characteristic of world economics. The effect of Globalization on all areas scrutinized by anthropology, such as lifestyles, religion, language and every other component of culture, has been so profound that, for the very first time in world history, every person in every level of society can observe and experience the strong effect of internation al changes in every walk of life (such as the audio-visual impact of their media, the availability of new and exotic meals, and the revolutionary change in the wide variety of products available for purchase). Perhaps the greatest effect has been the emergence of a global labor pool that is estimated to take in nearly 2 billion workers from developing countries during the next 10 years. Every person in the world today has been touched by globalization – he or she may stand to benefit from it, or may be endangered by it. Globalization does not involve a uniform, even natured characteristic. The U.S, in its role as the â€Å"indispensable nation† in the management of world affairs, and the foremost producer of information products, is the undisputed leader of the globalization process. Some countries (the U.S and Europe) have emerged as bigger players than the others, while poor countries gain very little from it. Globalization demonstrates the Darwinian theory of  "survival of the fittest† whereby powerful countries will survive ‘naturally’ because they are fated to survive, while weak countries are looked upon as undesirable and therefore destined to be separated because of being unable to satisfactorily perform as nation-states.

Symbolized and What it Meant to America Essay Example for Free

Symbolized and What it Meant to America Essay Though the negative preconception of the general American public was the widely carried message of newspapers before and during the early days of the said event, this is not what was covered by Colliers article since it was released during the last day of the event already. Therefore, what the article presented as the sentiment of America for the event, in the context of what happened during the supposedly last day of the event, was that of respect and commendation over the behavior of the hundred thousands youths who attended the event. This is exemplified by the same paragraphs in the previous page that Collier used to convey a positive image for the event. If we are to extract the American sentiment over the event from those few that were interviewed for the article, it could be viewed that America was surprised by and approved of the behavior of the participants, which was characterized by astonishing courtesy, order, and harmony. Coming from an explicit expectation of negative behavior from the youth who were going to attend the event, it could have really been such a pleasant surprise to America that the youth was able to rise above all their preconceived notions. However, it would be also reasonable to imagine that along with the positive perception of the American public over the relative success of the event was the concern over what was revealed the prevailing culture of drugs among the youth. With the reports of the event showcasing how drugs adversely affects the health of the youth and even lead to death and how the youth blatantly welcome such practices and even treats it as a culture, there is little argument that the rest of America who are not part of the said generation and culture is worried over the possible results of such a phenomenon in the long run. Thus, basing from Collier’s article, it could be said that America’s perception of the event could have been a mixture of both positive and negative things. Positive in terms of respect over the triumph of the American youth in staging such a peaceful display of unity, and negative in terms of their concern over the impending effect of the youth’s blatant drug practices. However, the respect for the youth and their generation’s culture that has been planted by the event in the hearts and minds of the American people is something that could not be erased for generations to come. A. What the Event Symbolized and What it Meant to America In Collier’s article, what was portrayed as the symbolism of Woodstock for those who participated in it was â€Å"an incredible unification† of people. Woodstock, for the youth who attended it, was the fulfillment of their thrilling expectation of being able to meet strangers who shared their practices, beliefs, and culture. The event was also a fulfillment of the youth’s eagerness to experiment with drugs along with all the other people of their generation. This is based form a paragraph in Colliers article . As for the rest of America who were not there at Woodstock and who were not part of the culture that Woodstock fostered, the event could still have symbolized a positive thing. For them, Woodstock could have been a symbol that though the youth of America have been practicing a culture entirely different from that of the previous generations, that does not mean that the generation was of no good. Woodstock could have well been a symbol that the youth of that day deserved to be respected for being the beautiful people that they are and for the beautiful things that they are able to do, beyond the prejudice that they have been faced with. For America, Woodstock could have meant that where their youth puts their heart into, there would also be peace, harmony, and beauty.

Wildlife on and Around Airfields :: essays research papers

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The danger of wildlife, particularly birds, on and around airfields has become a major issue on military bases. Hour upon hour is spent researching and testing methods to protect the wildlife, personnel, and aircraft. Despite these gallant efforts there are thousands of mishaps every year.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In the past, the effect on the environment and its living creatures wasn’t a top issue when building military bases. Unquestionably, it has been a concern though. Since flying first became a reality, documented safety reports go back as far as eighty-eighty years. As a result of not making it a number one priority, today we have problems with environmental organizations under the Endangered Species Act and millions of dollars are spent on scientific systems and even more lost to accidents and fines. There was no way obviously when airfields were being constructed that the significance of this matter could have been predicted. However, with a little more effort years ago and not just within the last twenty, many hazards could have been avoided.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Because of the numerous wildlife strikes to aircraft, literally millions of dollars in damaged parts are spent and millions are lost to complete destruction to aircraft. On the average, 3,126 strikes are reported each year by the military at nearly an average cost of $12,000 per case. This has led to over $700 million dollars lost or spent on aircraft over the past 20 years. Over all, the United States alone has lost $300 million annually, so you can tell the problem is not a small matter. Equally important are the fines handed out. Such as the case involving an international airport in France, where a flock of birds that was feasting on a carcass was neither reported nor removed before a jetliner was to depart. The plane received damage when it attempted to take-off but avoided serious consequences by shutting down just before the end of the runway. The airport was fined $3,000,000. Along with the financial losses, there have been several injuries and, more importantly, human fatalities. Possibly the most dramatic military incident was one in which several birds flew into a plane cruising at a high altitude. Damage was done to the engines and cockpit windows, causing the plane to crash and kill all 24 passengers. Over the past 30 years, a total of 37 Air Force aircraft have been completely destroyed, bringing along with it 35 fatalities. Wildlife on and Around Airfields :: essays research papers   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The danger of wildlife, particularly birds, on and around airfields has become a major issue on military bases. Hour upon hour is spent researching and testing methods to protect the wildlife, personnel, and aircraft. Despite these gallant efforts there are thousands of mishaps every year.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In the past, the effect on the environment and its living creatures wasn’t a top issue when building military bases. Unquestionably, it has been a concern though. Since flying first became a reality, documented safety reports go back as far as eighty-eighty years. As a result of not making it a number one priority, today we have problems with environmental organizations under the Endangered Species Act and millions of dollars are spent on scientific systems and even more lost to accidents and fines. There was no way obviously when airfields were being constructed that the significance of this matter could have been predicted. However, with a little more effort years ago and not just within the last twenty, many hazards could have been avoided.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Because of the numerous wildlife strikes to aircraft, literally millions of dollars in damaged parts are spent and millions are lost to complete destruction to aircraft. On the average, 3,126 strikes are reported each year by the military at nearly an average cost of $12,000 per case. This has led to over $700 million dollars lost or spent on aircraft over the past 20 years. Over all, the United States alone has lost $300 million annually, so you can tell the problem is not a small matter. Equally important are the fines handed out. Such as the case involving an international airport in France, where a flock of birds that was feasting on a carcass was neither reported nor removed before a jetliner was to depart. The plane received damage when it attempted to take-off but avoided serious consequences by shutting down just before the end of the runway. The airport was fined $3,000,000. Along with the financial losses, there have been several injuries and, more importantly, human fatalities. Possibly the most dramatic military incident was one in which several birds flew into a plane cruising at a high altitude. Damage was done to the engines and cockpit windows, causing the plane to crash and kill all 24 passengers. Over the past 30 years, a total of 37 Air Force aircraft have been completely destroyed, bringing along with it 35 fatalities.

Pre-literacy and Modern Vestiges Essays -- Literature Epic Poetry Poem

Pre-literacy and Modern Vestiges For many years, the conventions and existence of epic poetry from the pre-literate age were explained as repositories for information. A well-known story, usually involving a hero that embodied the virtues of the society who told the story, engages in battles, quests, etc. As the epic is spoken to an audience, the hero’s actions and the way they are described impart the audience with information and teachings. The information the listeners received is thought by some to be analogous to a modern day textbook lesson, in which students learn mathematics, grammar, and law, all by the written word. So is the contention of Homeric scholar Eric A. Havelock. As Hobart and Schiffman state in Orality and the Problem of Memory, Everywhere he looked in Homer, Havelock saw a wealth of instruction. For instance, the quarrel between Achilles and Agamemnon at the beginning of the Iliad embodies for him a wide range of subliminal â€Å"teachings.† It lays out the rules for disposition of captives, the etiquette of making and receiving ransom requests, the reverence due to priests, the respect accorded to kings by powerful warriors, and the symbols of public authority†¦(19). Havelock believed the nature of the epic was to verbally hand down a type of classical social contract, so that society could remain stable based upon the information that the speaker’s gave audiences of the Iliad. Integral to the audience’s reception of these teachings was a willingness to become participatory in the communication of the epic. According to Havelock, this is not a choice, but a necessity for a pre-literate listener. Havelock contends that a pre-literate soci... ...ring a list of words and definitions. What is important in Hobart and Schiffman’s essay is the idea that the purpose of oral epics is radically different than what has been traditionally thought. Our modern concept of memory is a very personal experience, as is for the most part our learning styles. Books are intimate and stress the individual interpreter of them; their pages are filled with information that in the reader’s hands might be hundreds of years removed from the time they were written. Yet with spoken epics, the only way to experience them was in the flesh, listening in a group to the speaker. It was a nominally individual process, but did include information as a print culture knows it. In the present day, perhaps the immediacy of the performance nature of pre-literate work is overlooked when so many written words flash before our eyes on pages. Pre-literacy and Modern Vestiges Essays -- Literature Epic Poetry Poem Pre-literacy and Modern Vestiges For many years, the conventions and existence of epic poetry from the pre-literate age were explained as repositories for information. A well-known story, usually involving a hero that embodied the virtues of the society who told the story, engages in battles, quests, etc. As the epic is spoken to an audience, the hero’s actions and the way they are described impart the audience with information and teachings. The information the listeners received is thought by some to be analogous to a modern day textbook lesson, in which students learn mathematics, grammar, and law, all by the written word. So is the contention of Homeric scholar Eric A. Havelock. As Hobart and Schiffman state in Orality and the Problem of Memory, Everywhere he looked in Homer, Havelock saw a wealth of instruction. For instance, the quarrel between Achilles and Agamemnon at the beginning of the Iliad embodies for him a wide range of subliminal â€Å"teachings.† It lays out the rules for disposition of captives, the etiquette of making and receiving ransom requests, the reverence due to priests, the respect accorded to kings by powerful warriors, and the symbols of public authority†¦(19). Havelock believed the nature of the epic was to verbally hand down a type of classical social contract, so that society could remain stable based upon the information that the speaker’s gave audiences of the Iliad. Integral to the audience’s reception of these teachings was a willingness to become participatory in the communication of the epic. According to Havelock, this is not a choice, but a necessity for a pre-literate listener. Havelock contends that a pre-literate soci... ...ring a list of words and definitions. What is important in Hobart and Schiffman’s essay is the idea that the purpose of oral epics is radically different than what has been traditionally thought. Our modern concept of memory is a very personal experience, as is for the most part our learning styles. Books are intimate and stress the individual interpreter of them; their pages are filled with information that in the reader’s hands might be hundreds of years removed from the time they were written. Yet with spoken epics, the only way to experience them was in the flesh, listening in a group to the speaker. It was a nominally individual process, but did include information as a print culture knows it. In the present day, perhaps the immediacy of the performance nature of pre-literate work is overlooked when so many written words flash before our eyes on pages.

Marketing Strategies for Low-Income Customers Essay

Good old fashioned rock ‘n’ roll could be dead. If a mobile phone ringtone in the shape of the vocalizations of the animated Crazy Frog dominates the billboard charts for months on end, then it could well signal the death knell for the industry, and how it operates. If this ubiquitous amphibian’s aurally annoying song, converted from a mobile phone ringtone, outsold even mainstay acts such as Oasis and Coldplay, why should music companies invest millions in cultivating fresh musical talent, hoping for them to be the next big thing, when their efforts can be beaten by basic synthesizer music? The industry is facing a number of challenges that it has to address, such as strong competition, piracy, changing delivery formats, increasing cost pressures, demanding pri-madonnas and changing customer needs. Gone are the days when music moguls were reliant on sales from albums alone, now the industry trawls for revenue from a variety of sources, such as ringtones, merchandising, concerts, and music DVDs, leveraging extensive back catalogues, and music rights from advertising, movies and TV programming. The music industry is in a state of flux at the moment. The cornerstone of the industry—the singles chart—has been facing terminal decline since the mid-1990s. Some retailers are now not even stocking singles due to this marked freefall. Some industry commentators blame the Internet as the sole cause, while others point to value differences between the price of an album and the price of a single as too much. Likewise, some commentators criticize the heavy pre-release promotion of new songs, the targeting of ever-younger markets by pop acts, and the explosion of digital television music channels as root causes of the single’s demise. The day when the typical record buyer browses through rows of shelves for a much sought-after band or song on a Saturday afternoon may be thing of the past. Long-term success stories for the music industry are increasingly difficult to develop. The old tradition of A&R (which stands for ‘Artists & Repertoire’) was to sign, nurture and develop musical talent over a period of years. The industry relied on continually feeding the system with fresh talent that could prove to be the next big thing and capture the public imagination. Now corporate short-term thinking has enveloped business strategies. If an act fails to be an immediate hit, the record label drops them. The industry is now characterized by an endless succession of one-hit wonders and videogenic artist churning out classic cover songs, before vanishing off the celebrity radar. Four large music labels now dominate the industry (see Table 1), and have emerged through years of consolidation. The ‘big four’ labels have the marketing clout and resources to invest heavily in their acts, providing them with expensive videos, publicity tours and PR coverage. This clout allows their acts to get vital airplay and video rotation on dedicated TV music channels. Major record labels have been accused of offering cash inducements of gifts to radio stations and DJs in an effort to get their songs on playlists. This activity is known in the industry as ‘radio payola’. Consumer have flocked to the Internet, to download, to stream, to ‘rip and burn’ copyrighted music material. The digital music revolution has changed the way people listen, use and obtain their favourite music. The very business model that has worked for decades, buying a single or album from a high-street store, may not survive. Music executives are left questioning whether the Internet will kill the music business model has been fundamentally altered. According to the British Phonographic Industry (BPI), it estimated that 8 million people in the UK are downloading music from the Internet—92 per cent of them doing so illegally. In 2005 alone, sales of CD singles fell by a colossal 23 per cent. To put the change into context, the sales of digital singles increased by 746.6 per cent in 2005. Consumers are buying their music through different channels and also listening to their favourate songs through digital media rather than through standard CD, cassette or vinyl. The emergence of MP3 players, particularly the immensely popular Apple iPod, has transformed the music landscape even further. Consumers are now downloading songs electronically from the Internet, and storing them on these digital devices or burning them onto rewritable CDs. Glossary of online music jargon Streaming: Allows the user to listen to or watch a file as it is being simultaneously downloaded. Radio channels utilize this technology to transmit their programming on the Internet. ‘Rip n burn’: Means downloading a song or audio file from the Internet and then burning them onto rewritable CDs or DVD. MP3 format: MP3 is a popular digital music file format. The sound quality is similar to that of a CD. The format reduces the size of a song to one-tenth of its original size allowing for it to be transmitted quickly over computer networks. Apple iPod: The ‘digital jukebox’ that has transformed the fortunes of the pioneer PC maker. By the end of 2004 Apple is expected to have sold 5 million units of this ultra-hip gadget. It was the ‘must-have item’ for 2003. The standard 20 GB iPod player can hold around 5000 songs. Other hardware companies, such as Dell & Creative Labs, have launched competing devices. These competing brands can retail for less than  £75. Peer-to-peer networks (P2P): These networks allow users to share their music libraries with other net users. There is no central server, rather individual computers on the Internet communicating with one another. A P2P program allows users to search for material, such as music files, on other computers. The program lets users find their desired music files through the use of a central computer server. The system works lime this; a user sends in a request for a song; the system checks where on the Internet that song is located; that song is downloaded directly onto the computer of the user who made the request. The P2P server never actually holds the physical music files—it just facilitates the process. The Internet offers a number of benefits to music shoppers, such as instant delivery, access to huge music catalogues and provision of other rich multi-media material like concerts or videos, access to samples of tracks, cheaper pricing (buying songs for 99p rather than an expensive single) and, above all, convenience. On the positive side, labels now have access to a wider global audience, possibilities of new revenue streams and leveraging their vast back catalogues. It has diminished the bargaining power of large retailers, it is a cheaper distribution medium than traditional forms and labels can now create value-laden multimedia material for consumers. However, the biggest problem is that of piracy and copyright theft. Millions of songs are being downloaded from the Internet illegally with no payment to the copyright holder. The Internet allows surfers to download songs using a format called ‘MP3’, which doesn’t have inbuilt copyright protection, thus allowing the user to copy and share with other surfers with ease. Peer to peer (P2P) networks such as Kazaa and Grokster have emerged and pose an even deadlier threat to the music industry—they are enemies that are even harder to track and contain. Consumers can easily source and download illegal copyrighted material with considerable ease using P2P networks (see accompanying box). A large number of legal download sites have now been launched, where surfers can either stream their favourite music or download it for future use in their digital libraries. This has been due to the rapid success of small digital medial players such the Apple iPod. The legal downloading of songs has grown exponentially. A la carte download services and subscription-based services are the two main business models. Independent research reveals that the Apple’s iTunes service has over 70 per cent of the market. Highlighting this growing phenomenon of the Internet as an official channel of distribution, new music charts are now being created, such as the ‘Official Download Chart’. Industry sources suggest that out of a typical 99p download, the music label get 65p, while credit card companies get 4p, leaving the online music store with 30p per song download. These services may fundamentally eradicate the concept of an album, with customers selecting only a handful of their favourite songs rather than entire standard 12 tracks. These prices are having knock-on consequences for the pricing of physical formats. Consumers are now looking for a more value-laden music product rather than simply 12 songs with an album cover. Now they are expecting behind the scenes access to their favourite group, live concert footage and other content-rich material. Big Noise Music is an example of one of the legitimate downloading sites running the OD2 system. The site is different in that for every  £1 download, 10p of the revenue goes to the charity Oxfam. The music industry is ferociously fighting back by issuing lawsuits for breach of copyright to people who are illegally downloading songs from the Internet using P2P software. The recording industry has started to sue thousands of people who illegally share music using P2P. They are issuing warnings to net surfers who are P2P software that their activities are being watched and monitored. Instant Internet messages are being sent to those who are suspected of offering songs illegally. In addition, they have been awarded court orders so that Internet providers must identify people who are heavily involved in such activity. The music industry is also involved heavily in issue advertising campaigns, by promoting anti-piracy websites such as www.pro-music.org to educate people on the industry and the impact of piracy on artists. These types of public awareness campaigns are designed to illustrate the implications of illegal downloading. Small independent music labels view P2P networks differently, seeing them as vital in achieving publicity and distribution for their acts. These firms simply do not have the promotional resources or distribution clout of the ‘big four’ record labels. They see P2P networks as an excellent viral marketing tool, creating buzz about a song or artist that will ultimately lead to wider mainstream and commercial appeal. The Internet is used to create communities of fans who are interested in their music, providing them access to free videos and other material. It allows independent acts the opportunity to distribute their music to a wider audience, building up their fan base through word of mouth. Savvy unsigned bands have sophisticated websites showcasing their work, and offering free downloads as well as opportunities for audio-philes to purchase their tunes. Alternatively major labels still see that to gain success one has to get a video on rotation on MTV and that this in turn encourages greater airplay on radio stations, ultimately leading to increased purchases.

Drunk Driving Essay

Drunk Driving Essay When an intoxicated individual makes a decision to sit behind the wheel of an automobile and drive home, he endangers everyone on the road. This one decision, which may not seem important at the time, can have a crucial impact . When the choice whether or not to drive under the influence of alcohol faces a person, he often does not realize the consequences of his actions, and therefore makes an extremely uneducated decision. Many people believe that increasing fines for drunk driving offenders will play a significant part in the cutting down of driving under the influence. However, while stiffer DUI laws will look affective on paper, they will not make a substantial step in the fight against drunk driving. The only benefit of increased drunk driving fines goes to the law enforcement agency that collects the fines. Because the majority of DUI stops happen to individuals who do not believe that they have become drunk, a person who chooses to drive does not even consider the fine that he may receive, no matter the amount. If an intoxicated person believes that he has the ability to drive home safely, a new law passed by state representatives will not stop them. A state increasing its DUI fines, will not make the police notice a decline in the amount of drunken driving stops, nor a decreased amount of alcohol related accidents. The only change that would come from such an increase would come in a boost in state government funds pouring in from DUI offenders. While the fight against drunk driving seems to have no end, many other solutions exist besides the raising of fines. One such solution lies in education. If the general public becomes properly educated about the meaning of intoxication, they will have the ability to make a proper choice when it comes time to decide whether or not to drive home. An individual needs to know facts such as how many drinks it takes to push them above the legal blood alcohol limit to drive. The legal blood alcohol content in Kentucky stands at .08. this means that if an officer stops a driver who’s blood alcohol content proves above .08, the officer recognizes this person as impaired, and can proceed with giving them a DUI. The public also needs to know consequences far more great than a simple fine, such as the risk you take of killing yourself or others when driving while impaired. Simply knowing certain facts about driving under the influence can become the difference between a person driving dru nk and taking a cab home. The difference between life and death lies in this choice, so it should lie in the hands of an educated person, not someone who does not know the facts about drunk driving. Another factor that can affect a person’s decision to drive drunk comes with his friends. A person needs to possess enough common sense to not let someone who is obviously intoxicated sit behind the wheel. While a possible fine will not stop someone from driving drunk, a close friend telling them not to drive will prevent them from doing so. In order to stop an intent person who has decided that he wants to drive drunk, a friend must also prove intent in stopping them. The saying, â€Å"Friends don’t let friends drive drunk,† could not have any more accuracy. Many times, a person will use every excuse in the world to convince someone to let them drive. A true friend should never let someone drive drunk, no matter the circumstances. The fact remains true, that no matter what anyone does, whether increasing the punishment, or educating the public, we cannot completely solve the problem of drunk driving. â€Å"Preaching to me about the evils of drinking didn’t stop me though.† This quotation from â€Å"An Indian Story†, by Roger Jack, demonstrates the average person’s attitude towards alcohol. People posses their own determination and will do what they want to do, and this willpower becomes even stronger when alcohol enters the picture. Judgment becomes impaired, and a person’s decision making goes downhill. This fact alone contributes greatly to the fact that people will always drive drunk, no matter what anyone does. Although nothing can totally prevent drunk driving, certain steps such as the education of not only the potential driver, but his friends as well, can play a significant role. The increase in fines, however, would prove completely ineffective and have no impact whatsoever on the amount of drunk driving that takes place. People simply do not consider the legal punishment when making the decision to drive while intoxicated. Knowing that consequences can go so much further that an easy fine and even be as serious as death, however, may sway someone’s choice. The prevention of drunk driving does not lie in legislation, but in education. Educated people make educated decisions, and educated people will not make the decision to drive drunk. You can order a custom essay, term paper, research paper, thesis or dissertation on Drunk Driving topics at our professional custom essay writing service which provides students with custom papers written by highly qualified academic writers. High quality and no plagiarism guarantee! Get professional essay writing help at an affordable cost.

Study, Learn, and Read

Study, Learn, and Read Study, Learn, and Read Study, Learn, and Read By Maeve Maddox Some ESL speakers have trouble with these verbs. To study is to apply the mind to the acquisition of knowledge. Books are the first avenue that comes to mind, but as the object of study is the acquisition of knowledge, other means include observation and experiment. Play is a form of study for children. Although the word learn is closely associated with study, the following sentences have completely different meanings: I am studying German. I am learning German. Many a student studies a subject in school without learning it. To read has several meanings. The most common is â€Å"to scan written or printed words and get meaning from them.† One noteworthy usage difference between British and American English is the use of read in reference to postsecondary education. In the U.S., students go to the university â€Å"to study history† or some other subject; in England, they go to university â€Å"to read history.† The idiom â€Å"to read up on† means â€Å"to study.† For example, â€Å"Before you travel to India, you may want to read up a little on the culture.† Idioms with read: to read between the lines: to draw conclusions not apparent from surface appearances. â€Å"She tells them that she cares for them, but when she turned down their last three dinner invitations, I could read between the lines.† read my lips! Ordinarily, this expression is used to emphasize a speaker’s sincerity and resolve: â€Å"Listen carefully!† â€Å"Pay close attention!† â€Å"Take my word for it!† In 1988, the phrase became closely associated with G. H. W. Bush, who said, â€Å"Read my lips: No new Taxes!† when accepting the presidential nomination. Because Bush did raise taxes during his presidency, political writers often use the phrase ironically. to read someone like a book: to understand a person’s character and thoughts by studying outward signs. to read a person’s mind: to guess what a person is thinking or intending to do. to read the Riot Act: The phrase originated in reference to an 18th century Act passed by the British Parliament following several serious riots. The Act authorized local officials to disperse any gathering of more than 12 people who were unlawfully, riotously, and tumultuously assembled together. An official would confront the group and read the part of the act that spelled out the consequences for refusing to obey. Nowadays the expression is used by adults in reference to noisy children: â€Å"Sounds like they’re getting pretty wild in there; you’d better go read them the Riot Act.† Idioms with learn: to learn by heart: to memorize learn by rote: to learn by means of repetition, the way one learns the alphabet, the multiplication tables, and scientific phyla. A learning curve is psychological jargon that has found a place in the general vocabulary. It means â€Å"the rate of a person’s progress in learning a new skill.† The expression derives from is a curve on a graph illustrating the rate of learning by a lab subject. Modern usage distinguishes between learn and teach, but in Shakespeare’s time, learn was used in the sense of â€Å"teach†: The red plague rid you for learning me your language! Caliban, The Tempest I:ii (1611) This use survives in some dialects, but not in standard usage. Fewer idioms with study come to mind: study a face: to look closely at a face, as if to memorize its features. study the options: to consider possible solutions to a problem or course of action. be in a brown study: â€Å"A state of mental abstraction or musing; gloomy meditation. The word brown originally described a color so dark as to be almost black. Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Expressions category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:35 Synonyms for â€Å"Look†55 Boxing IdiomsWhat the heck are "learnings"?

Free Essays on Hip Hop Music

of hate, bigotry, sexism, and racism grace today’s airwaves with no questions asked. Eminem, a top rapper today, sings about killing gays, his mom, and his wife. Jay-Z rants about how many girls he’s â€Å"bagged† in his hit single â€Å"Girls, girls, girls†. It seems as though that today, there is no line to be crossed and free speech has no boundaries. It’s legal to say whatever one wants to on a record, as long as there’s a sticker stating that it has â€Å"explicit content/lyrics†. With Hip Hop or rap music gaining popularity there days, it has become a target group to push the limits as other musical genres have done in the past. Back in the grunge era, Nirvana exploded on the scene with songs like â€Å"Rape me†, and Marilyn Manson’s band came out with their first album, which included stuff like â€Å"Rock N’ Roll Nigger†. In the late 60’s, bands talked about drugs and sex, setting a contro versial trend. In the rap videos of today, women are seen prancing around in absolutely nothing and are used as sexual objects, while the rap artist himself refers to them as his â€Å"bitches†. With rap music breaking into mainstream pop culture, it is expected to push the limits of free speech. In the beginning of rap and Hip Hop there was no â€Å"bling bling†, and they weren’t striving to get â€Å"cash, money, and hoes†. They were trying to get a message across. Rap artists have no culpability for the content of rap, and this is an evolved result of the white people’s demand, the music industry’s control, and because people are seeing only a certain group and letting them speak for the whole group. Rap music has declined in its culpability and reputability because of the added need to appease white people. When rap music began, it was sang in the streets of New York. Jamaican immigrants passed on their traditional beats and introduc... Free Essays on Hip Hop Music Free Essays on Hip Hop Music In a world full of anti-censorship, liberation, and free will, the sky’s the limit. Words of hate, bigotry, sexism, and racism grace today’s airwaves with no questions asked. Eminem, a top rapper today, sings about killing gays, his mom, and his wife. Jay-Z rants about how many girls he’s â€Å"bagged† in his hit single â€Å"Girls, girls, girls†. It seems as though that today, there is no line to be crossed and free speech has no boundaries. It’s legal to say whatever one wants to on a record, as long as there’s a sticker stating that it has â€Å"explicit content/lyrics†. With Hip Hop or rap music gaining popularity there days, it has become a target group to push the limits as other musical genres have done in the past. Back in the grunge era, Nirvana exploded on the scene with songs like â€Å"Rape me†, and Marilyn Manson’s band came out with their first album, which included stuff like â€Å"Rock N’ Roll Nigger†. In the late 60’s, bands talked about drugs and sex, setting a controversial trend. In the rap videos of today, women are seen prancing around in absolutely nothing and are used as sexual objects, while the rap artist himself refers to them as his â€Å"bitches†. With rap music breaking into mainstream pop culture, it is expected to push the limits of free speech. In the beginning of rap and Hip Hop there was no â€Å"bling bling†, and they weren’t striving to get â€Å"cash, money, and hoes†. They were trying to get a message across. Rap artists have no culpability for the content of rap, and this is an evolved result of the white people’s demand, the music industry’s control, and because people are seeing only a certain group and letting them speak for the whole group. Rap music has declined in its culpability and reputability because of the added need to appease white people. When rap music began, it was sang in the streets of New York. Jamaican immigrants passed on their traditional beats and introduc...

A Good Leader Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

A Good Leader - Essay Example I am required to plan and organize events and ensure the harmony of group members, is a great experience for future positions in the business world where it might be necessary for me to organize corporate gatherings and facilitate contract negotiations. I will defend it whether it is right or wrong. I entirely disagree. I perceive myself as a malleable person and I also believe I consider other’s opinions. If I defend my opinion, it means that I am confident about its validity. I believe that if I am stubborn about my ideas it is in regards to my ambition and desire to see projects through to their full potential. However, I realize that candidness towards other people’s ideas is very important in business. Without being open to other people’s ideas and perspectives, it is impossible to successfully collaborate. In business, effective collaboration is built on the open trust and freedom of expression of all group members. Through this open environment, the group is then able to compare ideas and attain a goal that would be impossible the sole efforts of an individual. Even as I ultimately see myself as a leader, I think it’s important to consider Franklin Roosevelt who said, â€Å"A good leader can't get too far ahead of his followers.† While I hope to function as a strong beacon of direction for my friends, I realize that it’s important to not forget the essential similarity of all human-kind and that the great thing about having friends is the chance to share the great journey of life with someone that understands.

MGMT402 U2 IP Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

MGMT402 U2 IP - Research Paper Example Consequently, the harassed victim is forced to file a complaint in the company’s grievance committee. Further, the victim’s not finding redress by submitting a complaint to the company’s grievance committee. The non-action or unfavorable action of the grievance committee may force the sexual harassment victims to file a harassment case in the courts of law. If the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) investigation shows the employer knew and did not prevent the supervisor’s harassment, the 1995 Auto Corp is has vicarious legal liability (Conte, 2010). In the case of Ellerth and Fargher labor case, the Supreme Court reiterated the company has vicarious legal liability for the supervisor’s harassment of the workplace victims if two conditions are present (Dale, 2005). First, the company knows of the sexual harassment acts and refuses to take the appropriate action to stop the sexual harassment acts. Likewise, The Code of Federal Regulations Pt 1604.11 states that management is liable it did implement reasonable care to prevent the harassment. Second, the victims sought the redress from the company’s grievance committee (GPO, 2007). Vicarious legal liability means the employer and the supervisor are liable for monetary damages. Further, the EEOC investigation team will implement the corresponding penalties on the guilty person and the employer, 1995 Auto Corp (EEOC, 2014). Similarly, management will be penalized for not doing its share to prevent workplace sexual harassment. Management is required to set into motion a grievance process for the abused employees. Likewise management must implement preventive measures to reduce future sexual harassment acts (Conte, 2010). Furthermore, the company must prioritize mediation over litigation (Conte, 2010). Mediation (amicable settlement) is less costly than litigation. Mediation may take possibly one or more meetings to

America and the end of the Cold War Research Paper

America and the end of the Cold War - Research Paper Example The â€Å"Cold War† can be defined as â€Å"a state of political tension and military rivalry which stops short of full-scale war, especially that which existed between the United States and Russia after World War 2† (www.freedictionary.com) The United States was in favor of capitalism, while the Soviet Union favored Communism. Some countries in Europe and Asia aligned themselves with the United States or the USSR. â€Å"During the Cold War, the Soviet Union and United States dominated international politics as opposing superpowers.† (â€Å"Notions of Security: Shifting Concepts and Perspectives†12) There were persistent concerns over Soviets infringing on the national security of these nations. The Americans and the Soviets had nuclear weapons. This resulted in the nuclear arms race between the two governments. There were fears of nuclear war but it never transpired.1 Both nations also wanted to be the first in space. This as well as Communist rule left t he USSR with an inactive economy for many years. When Mikhail Gorbachev was appointed as president in 1985 his goal was to renew the nation’s economy. He and President Ronald Reagan set out to resolve the policy and arms disagreements between their nations. These issues were resolved peacefully between them. In 1990 Boris Yeltsin was elected as president of Russia. In 1991 the Soviet Union officially came to an end subsequently leading to the fall of Communism. The American public was cautiously optimistic about the end of the Cold War because no one was certain that the new form of government in Russia would last.2 â€Å"Communism went out with a whimper, not a bang, hobbling the victory dance.† (Allen & Schweikart 768) The United States and Russia no longer felt threatened by each other. â€Å"The expectation of violence between the two major strategic powers has been drastically reduced.† (Reisman860) Immediately after the Cold War ended President George H.W. Bush began the process of reducing military forces. Unfortunately this resulted in economic problems. Aerospace and shipbuilding companies were nearly bankrupt. There were fewer defense contractors. Soldiers, airmen and sailors were laid off.3 The Recession of the early 1990’s followed not long after this happened. Bush felt that the world had changed for the better as a result of the fall of Communism and felt that Russia and other former Communist nations had to cooperate. In 1991, Congress provided financial help to Russia and other nations so that they could destroy their nuclear weapons. 4 Russia had a seat at the United Nations Security Council that the Soviet Union held previously. The United Nations was able to forge ahead with a new focus once the Cold War was over. Russia (Allen & Schweikart) During the Cold War the primary focus of the United States Intelligence Agency had been the military threat the Soviet Union and its allies imposed upon the nation. When the C old War ended it â€Å"called into question the continued efficacy of U.S intelligence activities in the post Cold War world.† (DeConcini1) The agency knew that there may be potential for a threat but many officials felt that U.S. intelligence needed to help American international firms to compete for business in other countries. They felt that this would protect national security. During the Bush and Clinton administrations private businesses were not supported by intelligence agencies. Former Director of Central Intelligence Robert

How does violent game effect to children Research Paper

How does violent game effect to children - Research Paper Example different positions and confusion over the effect of video games on children, it is lucid that results incline more on the negative than on the positive. This paper seeks to address this concern and bring out the actual issues clouding video games on the limelight. Video games have been in existence now for over fifty years. In 1952, Tic-Tac-Toe was developed by A.C. Douglas as part of a science project for his thesis, becoming the first video game to be created. Douglas used Electronic Delay Storage Automatic Computer, and emulator to construct his software, which contained 17 bits and 512 words. Still in the 1950s, William Higinbotham, a Brookhaven employee, developed an elementary game of tennis with an oscilloscope serving as its interface. At times, people refer to his game as the original version of â€Å"pong,† although it is not. Later, in the 1960s, Steve Russel, in 1962, developed Spacewar during his graduate studies. He involved several other students in his work, which later went through modifications and enhancements. His work impacted innumerous students including Nolan Bushnell. In 2010, Kirsch records a video game named Spacewar, developed in 1962, in which spaceship engaged in a fierce battle to death. Although the vide o game design was poor compared to contemporary games, the battling theme of the game has endured through several decades (Herman, Horwitz, Kent, & Miller, 2002). The development of the computer and television also impacted the development of video games greatly. In 1966, Ralph Baer assessed several methods he could use the television to act as a display mechanism for computer games he developed. He later developed and patented the first video game ever to use the television set as its display. Baer entered into a deal with Magnavox in1970 to create a video gaming console. At the same time, Nolan was also busy developing the first game ever to demand pay from gamers. He became successful with his Spacewar game project marking the

Corporate governance in the uk Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Corporate governance in the uk - Coursework Example Economists have pointed out that banking sector failure in the UK was triggered by a chain of actions; for example, corporate governance malpractices like above average remuneration package for directors, lack of shareholders’ engagement, increase in transient ownership, absence of risk measurement mechanisms and misrepresentation of financial performance of the firm have contributed significantly to sub-prime mortgage crisis in the USA which was followed by a global financial crisis in 2008. The global financial crisis caused systematic risks for the UK banks which were linked with the USA and other global financial market. Northern Rock bank was the first victim of banking crisis in the UK, overreliance on wholesale funding and lack of regulatory control were the reasons behind the failure of Northern Rock bank. Industry analysts have pointed out that, the UK banking sector crisis was triggered by four types of corporate governance failures, such as inefficient risk management, above average remuneration for top level executives, lack of shareholder engagement and lack of board qualification. Next section will discuss the contribution of these four issues to the financial crisis in the UK. Managing risk is an essential part of corporate governance policy of banks in the UK. Investors and shareholders decide on the investment strategy on the basis of the level of risk associated with a particular investment decision. Research scholars have proposed recommendations, in the form of Cadbury report, Greenbury report and Turnbul report, in order to address the risk management issues related to corporate governance policy of companies in the UK. Combined code and Basel II agreements were the guiding criteria for banks to formulate risk management strategies but these guidelines were not sufficient for them to avoid financial crisis which resulted from sovereign debt crisis. Although

How does violent game effect to children Research Paper

How does violent game effect to children - Research Paper Example different positions and confusion over the effect of video games on children, it is lucid that results incline more on the negative than on the positive. This paper seeks to address this concern and bring out the actual issues clouding video games on the limelight. Video games have been in existence now for over fifty years. In 1952, Tic-Tac-Toe was developed by A.C. Douglas as part of a science project for his thesis, becoming the first video game to be created. Douglas used Electronic Delay Storage Automatic Computer, and emulator to construct his software, which contained 17 bits and 512 words. Still in the 1950s, William Higinbotham, a Brookhaven employee, developed an elementary game of tennis with an oscilloscope serving as its interface. At times, people refer to his game as the original version of â€Å"pong,† although it is not. Later, in the 1960s, Steve Russel, in 1962, developed Spacewar during his graduate studies. He involved several other students in his work, which later went through modifications and enhancements. His work impacted innumerous students including Nolan Bushnell. In 2010, Kirsch records a video game named Spacewar, developed in 1962, in which spaceship engaged in a fierce battle to death. Although the vide o game design was poor compared to contemporary games, the battling theme of the game has endured through several decades (Herman, Horwitz, Kent, & Miller, 2002). The development of the computer and television also impacted the development of video games greatly. In 1966, Ralph Baer assessed several methods he could use the television to act as a display mechanism for computer games he developed. He later developed and patented the first video game ever to use the television set as its display. Baer entered into a deal with Magnavox in1970 to create a video gaming console. At the same time, Nolan was also busy developing the first game ever to demand pay from gamers. He became successful with his Spacewar game project marking the

A Strategic Plan of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University Essay

A Strategic Plan of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University - Essay Example From the report it is clear that the disadvantages experienced in strategic planning of institutions of higher learning will also be mentioned and analyzed, as they will be relevant in this review. Besides, the pros of strategic planning with reference to the plan of the institution will be discussed in various ways. An overall analysis of how an institution can exhibit the balance between the planning and achieving a sustainable quality improvement will also be done. All these analyses will be specific to the Hong Kong polytechnic university in relation to the learnt concepts, strategic planning, and management. As the study declares strategic planning can be defined as a way in which an organization establishes a way forward for its efficient operations. As such, this should be in a given order depending on the context of application. In this case, the application of the plan is in an institution of higher learning. This document, therefore, is focusing on the ways in which an organization can be managed through strategic planning. An analysis of the model of the plan will be done and views as per other professional suggestions given. The review of the main aims of the institution in general in relation to the arrangement of various departments will also be done. It is certain that the organization of reference here is a perpetual institution. Thus, the strategies put in place to ensure its long term existence and operation in line with the objectives will be looked into.

Was in my final year at high-school Essay Example for Free

Was in my final year at high-school Essay I was in my final year at high-school. I was only seventeen and the pressure of knowing that the outcome of school results would determine my whole life ahead finally got to me. I snapped. One day, in the absence of my parents, I ran away from home, hoping never to return. This was the turning point in my life. With an incomplete education on one hand, I was a lost soul, unaware of what to do or where to go. I ran into a group of people who claimed they could assist me out of this dark web I was now tangled in. They introduced me to drugs. Dosed with pills of heroin and cocaine, my life was tumbling downhill like a snowball, only gathering wrong as it rolled. It was those times where I was not even aware of what I was doing until I slept and then craved for more of the vile drugs I had already once ingested. I was a rogue who lived by my wits in a corrupt society. I had no contact with my real family and over time, these people became my new family. They led me to commit a chain of robberies, homicidal attacks a chain of crimes. Day by day, I became a wanted criminal. No conscience made me look back; I was not overshadowed by my guilt. It was only a matter of time before I was caught and sentenced to nineteen years of imprisonment. The words of Gregory David Roberts described my situation as I felt it- I was a revolutionary who lost his ideals in heroin, a philosopher who lost his integrity in crime and a poet who lost his soul in a maximum-security prison. Two years in jail and I escaped in broad daylight and took asylum in the jhopadis of Dharavi in Mumbai. I got involved in the mafia and started a business of smuggling guns and ammunition and counterfeiting money. The money I earned was enough to pay off any heart fancying a call to the police. I was a notoriously known figure now, and probably the most wanted person in the whole of the country. Everyday I met new people interested in my business. One day to my surprise a female entrepreneur came to my office. She was gorgeous and from the moment I set my eyes on her I fell in love with her. She helped my business for six months and became a close part of my life until finally she betrayed me to the police. It seemed she was involved with them and did this for a sum of money. I was imprisoned again. It was here that I was chained beaten, stabbed and starved. I was at constant war with myself. Should I have done what I did? But it did not matter now. My companions lost sanity while I kept my nerve. I buried them and their lives into my own as it was only with their help that I was still alive. I realized through the pain and sufferings within, that even in my brutal, gory helplessness, I was still free- to hate those who were torturing me, or to forgive them. It may not have been everything but in times like those, it was all I but and it seemed like a whirlpool of possibilities. This hardest choice I thought, could determine where I may end up next and I chose to forgive. Time flew by and the nineteen years of torture soon ended. I thought and reflected upon my half-life as it began back in high-school. I thought of what I could have been- a better human being. Pondering over the thought that a life wasted is not worth living, I realized that it was time to turn over a new leaf. I penned my experiences and memories in an autobiography to ensure that young adults would make the right choices in life and would not fall in the same trap as I did. My book- Realization- as it is titled is a guide for youngsters today and has earned me fame. My life has changed ever since. Life now seems beautiful. I regret having ruined a long part of, what could have been, a fabulous journey throughout. It was an expensive realization

Consumption Behaviour of Students

Consumption Behaviour of Students Chapter One Introduction 1.1. BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY 1.1.1 Consumption Behaviour Definition If it is said that marketing in true sense is the conclusion of social culture of post modern consumer culture (Firat, 1993) then an immense burden and responsibility has been imposed to determine the conditions and meanings of life for the future (Firat and Venkatesh, 1993). This life which is dealing with meeting unlimited demands with limited resources in hand and planning to secure future by making savings. So keeping this in view the consumption by individuals is really critical to full fill the needs and to secure the future. So in view of this consumption is definitely a focal point of present social and economic world. And that consumption in return definitely triggers a primary marketing concern of probability to repurchase a product regardless of its type (Peter Olson, 1990). Although consumption is as old as human history and has passed through plenty of phases but even in todays world the repurchase of items is the core priority of sellers. No matter that repurchase is o f basic necessity item or luxury product or whether it is matter of mobile connection or someone is talking about E-Banking or it is making flight reservation, every company tried its level best that a consumer should repeatedly purchase its product. The definition of consumption given by Peter and Olson (1990) is â€Å"use of product.† Peter and Olson (1990) are also of the opinion that it is not easy to define or to comprehend the meaning of consumption as there is a vast difference in the nature of various products and services. Even in this age of Information Technology and Globalization era the meaning of product (includes both goods and services) varies from culture to culture and it keeps on changing from one country to another. If a commodity or service is considered as necessity in one region, in other part of the world it may be categorized as luxury. But despite all these limitations researchers and authors still gave some comprehensive and compact definition of consumption. The idea of consumption defined by Webb (1993) in the following words â€Å"Consumption is the evaluating, buying, using and disposing of  products and services.† But like other fields of study this topic also remained under debate by variety of scholars and researchers in all parts of the world. The word of consumption attracted the attention of researchers and marketers who kept on trying to comprehend the meanings of this idea of â€Å"consumption†. While reviewing books and literature another good and wide-range definition of consumption given by Caru and Cova (2007) in the following words â€Å"Consumption is an activity that involves a production of meaning,  as well as field of symbolic exchanges.† The author elaborates this definition by mentioning that consumers do not consume products but they consume the image and meanings associated with the product and they think that it is mandatory that an object or services should fulfil certain functions. Those functions should meet and better to exceed customers expectation. If it failed to meet their anticipation then they will drop the idea of repurchase of that particular product or in case of services they will avoid to consume or avail that particular service. Simultaneously it is also said that consumption behaviour also refers to single use of a product like a soft-drink can or one can consume a product repeatedly like mobile phone or automobile. This concept of consumption behaviour also covers the issue of disposing off a product ( (Noel, 2009). Like in case of soft drink can or other single used items a general trend emerged over a period of time is that customers prefer those products whose packaging is reusable or can be recycled. But in case of mobile, automobiles, computers customers often sell those products after making multiple use of it. Consumption deals with the variety of question as it is mentioned by Schiffman and Kanuk (2007) like what to buy, when to buy, why to buy, from where to buy, how frequently they should buy, and the question of evaluation that purchase. Simultaneously the impact of evaluation on future purchase and disposing it off are also two important concerns of consumer. 1.1.2 Types of Consumption Schifman and Kanuk (2007) also highlighted two different kinds of consuming entities which deal with the consumption behaviour. The first term is personal consumption which can be defined as when good or services are bought for personal use , for household consumption or to exchange it with someone in shape of a gift. In the mentioned contexts the products are brought for final use by individuals who are referred as end users or ultimate consumers. The second category of consumers is termed as organizational consumption. It includes purchases made by profit and non-profit businesses, government agencies, and institution, all of which must buy products, equipment and services in order to run their organizations. Although both mentioned categories are of great importance but in this writing my main objective will be personal consumption. As consumption by end user is the most pervasive of all types of consumer behaviour as it involves every individual, of every age and background, in the role of either customer or user or both (Schifman and Kanuk 2007). It has been revealed from prior consumer spending studies that individuals consume in a specific way and that particular consumption behaviour is in practice due to certain factors like life style, self-image, upbringing and family structure (Martin Bush, 2000; Penman McNeill, 2008). There are some other factors which influence the Consumption Behaviour of young consumers which are parents and grandparents (McNeal 1997), parents income (Page Ridgway, 2001) and parents decision making style (Jay 2005; Elder, 1969). The mentioned factors highlighted the multi-dimensional role of parents. But the role of brands (Page Ridgway, 2001; Doston Hyatt, 2005; Bacca, 2005), consumer socialization (Razak 2003; Gil 2007; Gronhoj, 2007) and advertising (Bacca, 2005; Spero, 2004) may also not be neglected. 1.1.3. World Consumption Statistics The word â€Å"consumption† is synonym to â€Å"spending† or â€Å"expenditure†. So using this synonym, in order to quantify the consumer consumption into US $ following table best explains consumption in different parts of the world. The mentioned figures are for the year 2009. From the above table it can be easily inferred that consumers spend US $ 34,050 billion on mentioned below categories. This amount when converted in trillion it becomes almost US $ 34 trillion. This huge spending is almost 11 times more than USA total budget figure which was exactly 3.1 Trillions (http://www.whitehouse.govt, 2009). So this huge consumption creates my interest to study the factors which are reason of this huge spending. From the above table it is evident that consumer consumption in Asia Pacific is at number 3. Such a high consumption is of great interest for not only academicians but also for marketers. 1.1.4. Malaysian Public university students Consumption Behaviour According to Ministry of Higher Education website (accessed on 2011) there are total twenty public and twenty four private universities in Malaysia. The total enrolment according to MOHE (2007) in public universities is 382,997 Out of this total number 247,881 students which becomes almost 65% registered in undergraduate degree programs. It is consensus by Li, Jiang, An, Shen and Jin (2009) Komarraju, Karau and Ramayah (2007), Penman and McNeill (2008) and Feltham (1998) all are agreed that Young Consumers who are also called as Geberation Y are students. It is also agreed that young consumers fall within the age bracket of 18-24 years. As fas as Malaysia is concerned the total population of Malaysian Youngsters in 2007 was around 5 million which was almost 19% of total Malaysian population (Euromonitor International, 2010). Zainurin, Ahmed and Ghingold (2007) focus on the Malaysian young consumers attitude towards shopping malls. It is highlighted by the authors that Young Malaysian s spent a significant proportion of their monthly expenditures in shopping malls. The sources of income highlighted by Zainurin et. al. (2007) are scholarship or study loan, sponsored by parents, self sponsored and others. But Kamaruddin and Mokhlis (2003) mentioned that the major proportion of spending by young consumers is on clothes, make-up, food, sports equipment and entertainment. In the same article Kamaruddin and Mokhlis (2003) discussed young consumers consultation with parents and concluded that Chinese young consumers as compare to Malay are less likely to interact with their parents. But in case of Indians they are more likely to interact with their parents and less likely to interact with peers in consumption matters. But it will be of great interest to find out that what is consumption behaviour of Malaysian young consumers. As it is mentioned in a report compiled by PricewaterhouseCoopers (2004/2005) Malaysian households spent their high percentage of income on food, groceries and personal care items. But less had been researched on consumption behaviour of young consumers in Malaysia. The Malaysian young consumers is now well aware of products as they are more exposed to Information Technology. Their information due to frequent use of internet along various other factors like socialization, advertising, etc. establishes good awareness of marketing strategies among them. This trend of spending by Malaysian young consumer needs to be further explored. 1.2. Problem Statement As it is mentioned earlier that according to Euromonitor International 2010 the Malaysian Generation Y is about 5 million in 2007. This is also evident from above discussion that Generation Y has more disposable income (Eisner, 2005; Hongjun, 2006; XU, 2007; Henrie Taylor, 2009) to spend on variety of products. So keeping in view, the above mentioned facts Generation Y is a lucrative market for producers. Obviously their consumption behaviour is influenced by different factors and variables. It should be interesting to explore the main contributors towards consumption behaviour of Malay Generation Y. The industry like electronics, telecom, consumer products etc. whether fulfil their requirements or do they still fail to meet this Malay Generation Y expectations. It is really of great concern to study that the consumer skills or knowledge which they acquire during their childhood and teenage whether lasts with them for long time or does it keeps on changing during their adulthood. So through this study, I intend to highlight the factors and variables that influence the consumption behaviour of Malay Generation Y, which is relatively under-researched in Malaysia. 1.3. Study Objectives The general objective of this research proposal is: To identify general consumption behaviour of Malaysian public university students registered in undergraduate degree program. Whereas under the light of primary objective following are other objectives which will be achieved: To explore differences in the consumption behaviour among the three communities Malay, Chinese and Indians. To determine factors that influence consumption behaviour of Malaysian public university undergraduate students. To prepare recommendation for developing marketing strategies for Malaysian public university students. 1.4. Research Questions RQ. 1. What is the consumption behaviour of Malaysian public university students registered in undergraduate degree program? RQ. 2. What are the differences in consumption behaviour among all three communities i.e. Malay, Chinese and Indians? RQ. 3. How significant each factor in influencing consumption behaviour of Malaysian public university students? RQ. 4. What are good recommendations to develop marketing strategies for Malaysian public university students? 1.5. Significance of the Study It has been estimated by US Census Bureau (2010) that more than 17 % of total world population falls within the age bracket of 15-24 years. This age bracket is about 1.14 billion and it was mentioned by Xu (2007) that this age bracket is wealthiest group. As far as Malaysia is concerned, according to Euromonitor International (2010) the population among this age bracket was 5 million in 2007 which became almost 19% of total population. This age bracket normally are part of universities. It is mentioned by Walsh and Mitchell (2005) that education improves analytical skill so through this study I intend to study the students registered in variety of educational degrees from certification/diploma to PhD programs so that their consumption behaviour can be explored. This particular group has more disposable income (Eisner, 2005; Hongjun, 2006; XU, 2007;Henrie Taylor, 2009) as compare to the generation of parents and grandparents. Simultaneously they have less saving spirit as compare to Generation X. To study the consumption behaviour of Generation Y is of great interest as most of the Malaysian studies conducted in shopping malls and authors always studied the way this age group shop. In addition to this they are always studied by combining with teensor tweens. So through this study I will solely study consumption behaviour of Malaysian Generation Y. 1.5.1. Academic Perspective So far lot of studies had been conducted about the behaviour and attitude of Malaysian consumers in shopping malls like grocery shopping by Miranda and Jegasothy, a study of Malaysians behaviour in shopping malls conducted by Zainurin et. al. (2007) etc. But I failed to find any study which is solely targeting Malaysian young consumers. There are studies where main focus was exploring single variable like television viewing by Ghani (2004), culture studied in context of service quality by Kueh and Voon (2007), ethics in consumption studied by Chai and Lung (2009). In the light of above mentioned facts the main focus of this study will be consumption behaviour of Malaysian young consumers. The study will be a food for thought for academicians which will further enhance the existing body of knowledge on the consumption behaviour of young Malaysian consumers. The significance of factors that influence consumption behaviour of young consumers definitely opens new horizons and helps the researchers to broaden the scope from studying attitudes of young consumers in shopping malls to the general consumption of Malaysian young consumers. 1.5.2. Industry Perspective Young consumers are always a great mystery for producers of products. It is really challenging to fulfil their fast changing taste, needs and choices. This study will definitely give a more coherent and clear picture of the factors that influence young Malaysian consumers consumption behaviour. Through this study it will be explored that how Malaysian Generation Y undergo the four steps mentioned in the definition of consumption behaviour which are pre-purchase evaluation, finalizing and making purchase of product, using of product and disposing off product. Through this study the consumption behaviour among three ethnic groups of Malaysia will be explored so that a clear and specific distinction of consumption behaviour among these three groups can be researched which will definitely useful for marketers for developing marketing strategies. Chapter two 2.1. Literature Review For this study I would like to start my discussion by highlighting the importance of marketing. 2.1.1 Marketing and its Importance In Forbes it is mentioned by Trout (2006) that it has been long ago that Peter Drucker, the father of business consulting, made a very profound observation that has been lost in the sands of time which is: Because the purpose of business is to create a customer, the business enterprise has twoand only twobasic functions: marketing and innovation. Marketing and innovation produce results; all the rest are costs. Marketing is the distinguishing, unique function of the business. This concept of marketing is far beyond offering and creating of products and services. Its a matter of customer creation. It deals that how relationship can be established with customer and the ways through which these relationships can be strengthen. It also addresses to certain other critical issues like; How a loyal customer can be created? How product inclusive of goods and services can be innovated? Before discussing this concept in detail it is better to present certain definitions of marketing: Marketing in the words of Kotler, Armstrong, Ang, Leong, Tan, Hon-Ming (2009): â€Å"The process by which companies create value for customers and build strong customer realtionships in order to capture value from customers in return.† Another definition of Marketing given by American Marketing Association mentioned by Cooper and Schindler (2006) is: â€Å"It is an organizational function and a set of processes forcreating, communicating and delivering value to customers and formanaging customer relationships in ways that benefits the organizationand its stake holders† Aaker, Kumar and Day (2001) define marketing in the following words: Marketing is the process of planning and executing the conception, pricing, promotion and distribution of ideas, goods and services to create exchanges that satisfy individual and organizational objectives. The marketing concept requires customer satisfaction rather than profit maximization. It is evident from all mentioned definitions that customer is the main focus of each producer and service provider. As it is highlighted by Levitt in 1960 that industry should focus customer- satisfaction process rather than a goods producing process. He emphasized that all producers should understand this philosophy as industry begins with the customers and his/her needs not with the patents or copyrights, neither it starts with raw material or a selling skill. The idea which was presented around 50 years back is still valid and nowadays this main issue is a core concern by all the companies. The Druckers philosophy about business enterprise is very well comprehend by saying that marketing and innovation are two basic functions of business. The idea of marketing keeps on emphasizing that how customers confidence can be won. The companies from USA to Australia, the organizations operating in Africa, the enterprises offering their products in Asia Pacific and regardless of product variety as well as geographic location all are trying hard to satisfy the fast ever changing consumer needs, wants and requirements. Peter and Olson (2008) highlighted that companies are making changes to serve their customers. They have highlighted three reasons of these changes. The first reason of bringing the changes is the dramatic success of Japanese companies such as Toyota and Sony who give ample attention to their consumers and give them value-laden [5] products. This idea spurred other companies philosophies and influence them to prioritize customers taste, needs and wants. The second major reason is the dramatic increase in the quality of consumers and marketing research. In the past although companies conduct surveys and receive feedback from customers which was occasional and not so frequent. But today Information Technology made it easy for retailers and manufacturers to keep the track of customer reactions towards product and services. The third main reason of prioritizing customers taste is the development of internet as marketing tool. As internet is a tool to through which information about products can be shared with vast majority. 2.1.2. Consumer Behaviour Variety of writers like Kotler (2008), Engel, Black and Miniard (1995), Mclver and Naylor (1986), mentioned that understanding and adapting to customer motivation and behaviour is not an option but it is life blood for the survival of companies in this modern world. And this term or subject bring tremendous change in organizational set up. According to McNeal (1982, p. 8) â€Å"consumer behaviour is the preparation for purchase, the purchase act and the use and disposal of those things purchased.† McNeal (1982) also highlighted the three stages for the act of consuming which are (1) pre purchase behaviour, (2) purchase behaviour, (3) post purchase behaviour. The author mentioned that most of the time researchers or writers overlook pre purchase behaviour but that is the stage which cannot and should not be overlooked. While defining â€Å"consumer† author elaborated that consumer is the person who undergo through all mentioned three stages for his benefit or for the benefit of others. So in consumer behaviour the three stages mentioned by McNeal (1982) are integral. And whenever a consumer spends money whether on good or on services he/she has to undergo these three stages. Another definition of consumer behaviour given by East (1997) â€Å"consumer behaviour is about human responses in a commercial world; how and why people buy and use products (include both goods and services), how they react to prices and other promotional tools and what underline mechanisms operate to help and hinder consumption.† 2.1.3. Consumer Behaviour: Bridge the Gap between Producer and Consumer Above mentioned definitions, considered the discipline of Consumer Behaviour as a bridge between producers and customers/consumers. Like commercial world where producers advertise and share the information about the products they are offering to the market and response shown by the customers or consumers can be positive or negative. The positive response of the customer or consumers resulted in the shape of increasing sales, revenue for the company, satisfaction and trust on a particular or all products by a company. But a negative attitude can be like not purchasing the product of a company, shown distrust or sharing negative beliefs about a companys product to others. Simultaneously, the definition also shed light on another important aspect help to study the mechanisms, behaviour or attitude of customers or consumers under the influence of which they stop buying the product or any change in the attitude of customers/consumers towards a product. After discussing the definitions of Marketing and Consumer Behaviour one thing is evident that creation of value for producers and marketers are of core concern. This creation of value is integral and most critical phenomenon for marketers. Value is defined by the customer not by the supplier in the factory or it can also be defined that value is not what the producer puts in but what the customers get out (Khalifa, 2004). So this creation of value should be addressed and deal professionally as if it fail to meet or exceed customers satisfaction than he/she will jump to alternate or competitor. 2.2. Consumption Behaviour in Different parts of The World Consumption is lifeblood of each individual. Consumption can be termed as a process or a phase through which each and every individual of each nation has to undergo (Raijas, Lehtinen, Leskinen, 2010; Kamaruddin Mokhlis, 2003) or consumption is a mean to express and create self identity (Phau Woo, 2008) or consumption is ruled by sports celebrities (Dix, Phau, Pougnet, 2010). So a lot of factors that influence consumption are researched, studied and comprehended in variety of studies. How individuals undergo consumption in different parts of the world are mentioned below: 2.2.1. Consumption Behaviour: American and Canadian Perspective It is highlighted by Moschis and Churchill (1978) that early sociologists speculated that young people learn most of the basics of consumption from their parents. It is interestingly a very valid fact even in this age of information technology and in this world which is called as global village. Parents are still considered as the most valuable, reliable and modest source of knowledge regarding consumption behaviour. Even young consumers not only consider them as ready source of knowledge but even when young consumers start living alone they still consult their parents whenever they have to make any purchases. It was highlighted by Feltham (1998) that primary groups have stronger influence on consumption. Parents are one of the most strongest part of this primary group. Generally it has been observed, researched and mentioned that generally parents are considered as strongest and comprehensive source of knowledge and they have greater influence on the consumption behaviour of their d escendents. Felthams (1998) finding that males are less likely to discuss about consumption with parents and if they do they receive lesser reinforcement but this trend is quite opposite in case of females where they openly and comfortably discuss about consumption with parents and simultaneously they receive positive feedback as well. This finding of Feltham (1998) is consistent with Moschis, Moore and Smiths (1983) results. It is mentioned by Clark, Martin and Bush (2001) that parents are role models for their children in consumption and the way parents educate their children about consumption, brand and other spending activities it lasts with them for quite a long time. 2.2.2 Consumption Behaviour: European Perspective It is highlighted by Rolfe (2005) that young consumers in UK are living with their parents and they are provided with all the necessities but the parents of this Generation Y has more disposable income as compare to the generation of 1960s and 1970s. On the basis of this factor Generation Y are more interested in Branded and expensive items. This fact is highlighted and mentioned by Gronhoj (2007). Both positive and negative experiences teach young people how to direct their future decisions on spending. At the same time, they learn that good intentions can be lost to temptation, and consumer goods and/or services may not be rationally controllable. According to Gil, Andres and Salinas (2007) repetitive consumption of brand establish a loyalty of brand among children and it last with them even when they start living alone. They stick to that brand and loyal to its features. It also mentioned that memories associated with that brand also stopped them from switching the brand. It is fact mentioned by Gil, Andres, and Salinas (2007) that when young consumers start living alone they carry the experience of consumption with them which they learn while living with their parents. They take the same learned consumption behaviour with them which is shown by their parents and which they experience during their stay with their family. As per Gronhoj (2007) young consumers not only spend increasing amounts of money on consumer goods but they exert considerable influence on the consumption choices of the rest of the family. Media through advertisement also shape up the consumption behaviour of these young consumers. Bravo, Fraj and Martinez (2007) highlighted that whenever young consumers faces some new consumption situation which they never encounter earlier they contact their parents. In most of the cases parents kept on giving them suggestions even when they start living alone. It is also realised that young consumers consult their parents more frequently when they start living alone than during their cohabitation. Even the product quality is also dependent of the parents usage, suggestion and recommendation. Schloffer, Maloles III and Chia (2009) mentioned that Generation Y is very well informed generation. They start using computer, internet and other electronic gadgets from the early part of their lives which not only enhance their knowledge for products but also it polishes their thinking capabilities. Internet is a tool for them who helped them in making purchase decisions. They are brand conscious and fashion oriented generation. But simultaneously they are criticised as poor financial planner and considered as they have very low financial skills. In Finland it has been noted and written by Raijas, Lehtinen and Leskinen (2010) that technological and economical institutions facilitate and encourage consumption by offering credit to consumers. These financial institutions are offering credit cards, mortgages, personal loans, etc. Young consumers are availing these credits facilities mainly for two reasons: one is for setting up their own homes and secondly they want to raise their social status. Consumption on mentioned factors leads this Generation Y towards increase their consumption and in some cases this consumption is more than their income which becomes critical and have adverse impact of the countrys economy. Bouzaglo and Moschis (2010) mentioned that in some countries and culture the show off becomes trend and people especially young consumers showed it in their consumptions. They purchase products which are classified as speciality products so that they can have separate identity and considered as status oriented and fashion driven. But in countries like France it is the culture that money and possessions should be kept in secrecy. It is also mentioned by Bouzaglo and Moschis (2010) that in case of dislocated families young consumers heavily rely on peer communications and media. In this case the important role of parental communication about consumption is missing and these young inexperienced consumers may lead towards excess consumption. 2.2.3. Consumption Behaviour: Asian Perspective According to Hongjune (2005) young consumers always try to experience new things. They are very experiential and innovative. When they are associated to a group of friends then their liking and disliking should be aligned with their peers. If they failed to do so then they have feeling that they will be dropped by their peers. Even in purchasing products they are very careful about the groups opinion with regard to the brand, colour, and features of product. Simultaneously in Singapore it is mentioned by Hongjune (2005) that Generation Y of Singapore has seven pockets. Parents, grandparents from maternal and paternal side and now part time work is also considered as respectable source of income. The income from part time work is sometimes saved but most of the time it has been observed that they kept of spending and the saving spirit is not like their parents or grandparents. Hsu and Chang (2006) on the basis of findings by Moschis and Churchill (1978) mentioned that socialization has an enormous impact on the consumption behaviour of individuals. There are three important and integral socialization agents which are parents, peers and media. Among these three parents are considered as one of the most critical and

Claude and the Classical Dream :: essays papers

Claude and the Classical Dream In Kathleen Nicholson's book, Turner's Classical Landscapes, is an interpretation of Turner's concepts and ability of landscape painting in contrast to Claude. In particular, chapter six, Nicholson discusses Turner's artistic career and how it models Claudean classical landscape. Nicholson conveys her opinion on how Turner re-created Claude's a realm to maintain a balance between homage and revision, between landscape as a tradition and landscape as a modern form of expression. Kathleen Nicholson, in this chapter, takes the reader through many aspects of Turner's re-creation of Claude's classical landscape into his own modern form. Turner understood Claude's qualities as an artist. He clearly knew the extent to which Claude's art came from, with extensive study of nature, part by part, and a realization that informed his own process of idealization. Nicholson states, " Allow he showed proper respect to Poussin, his heart went out to Claude (222)" because Turner saw Claude's work as the realm of the classical landscape. Many other artists, such as Constable, looked at Claude's works for inspiration in aspects ranging from the design of rivers to the finish. Other artists continuously copied Claude's landscape paintings as a basis for representation of their own landscape. Turner instilled Claude's work into two compositional formats, a seaport and an inland setting, which he would personalize and update while at the same time leaving no doubt about their source. However, at the beginning of Turner's career, he believed that Claude's work was beyond the power of imitation. At first, he followed Poussin's order and rationality in his 1800 and 1802 Plague pictures. Poussin may have seemed more comprehensible to Turner before being exposed to more of Claude's paintings. After a visit to the Lourve, Turner's paintings appeared more and more like Claude's, especially in the Thames River paintings, where Turner used an air of eternal beauty to counterbalance the changeable effects of English weather. Nicholson finds Turner's sketchbook as the example of how Turner's idealization derives from the kind of exchange between the natural and the imaginary. She states,"His projection of a harmoniously arranged natural environment never subjects to the ravages of time imparted an elegance and breadth to his observation of the real world (223)". Nicholson finds his sketchbook to be a journey that embarks through imagination and the sensual. The first pages of the book depict a little ship ready for departure.

Revenue Cycle Management Essay -- essays research papers

Synopsis - Integrated solution for Revenue Cycle Management and Medical Records Overview Physician practices are being called on to do more than ever before. Today’s physicians must treat more patients, document interactions more meticulously, wrangle with more complex managed care rules, keep track of an ever-expanding array of drugs, submit and track claims and pay rising malpractice insurance bills. In many cases, physicians must treat 20 percent more patients than they did five years ago to generate the same revenue. In the face of these burdens, some practices are struggling to remain financially viable. For many practices, the biggest impediment to meeting these challenges is continual administrative burden, a lack of automated clinical documentation, and inefficient practice workflow systems. Despite the dramatic advances in many areas of healthcare technology over the past several years, most physician practices—especially small and midsize ones—are still using the same manual and paper-based office management systems they’ve used for decades. With mounting pressure from insurers, government agencies, and patients, physician practices need to reexamine the ways they work and interact. As physicians see more patients and insurers demand reformed documentation for rapid processing of claims, the manual healthcare systems that were adequate in the past will become less and less able to meet new demands. The problem The paperwork burden among solo/small group physician...

Case Study Analysis of “Wal-Mart: the Main Street Merchant of Doom” Essay

The rapid and enormous expansion of Wal-Mart and its market share have changed the landscape of Main Street in towns and cities across America. By 1981, Wal-Mart became Americas largest retailer. It has approx. 6,700 stores worldwide, $345 billion in net sales (2007), and roughly 100 million weekly customers. Wal-Marts massive footprint has had three primary areas of concern: 1) Putting local small business merchants out of business 2) The creation of urban sprawl 3) Traffic congestion †¢ Largest purchase made from overseas which forced local manufacturers out of business. †¢ Oppositions from labor unions and activists organizations regards to low wage, low benefits and taking advantage of illegal immigrants. †¢ Gender discrimination against women. †¢ Most sued company in America in respect of lawsuits. In the mid 1980†²s, Wal-Mart was becoming responsible for the loss of American jobs due to the sheer volume of foreign purchases from its overseas vendors. The company was contacted by then Gov. Bill Clinton and he requested that they devise a plan to support American manufacturing. Wal-Mart responded with a â€Å"Buy American† program to support American manufacturers, but the plan was eventually abandoned. Wal-Mart is currently the largest purchaser of Chinese products. This shift in policy caused the loss of American manufacturing jobs once again. The aggressive marketing of Wal-Mart, its purchasing power and intent to provide very inexpensive goods to the consumer has shut down many local merchants. Even with continued resistance in many communities, Wal-Mart has continued to expand worldwide in brute force. The varying cultures across the globe that Wal-Mart attempts to move into have also proven to be very resistant. There have been cases of Wal-Mart not respecting the language or culture of the respecting community and they have closed their doors or taken a different approach including the purchase of well known local chains to retain a familiarity and business model that works. Analysis/Evaluation: The primary social stakeholders of Wal-Mart are the citizens in the community, local consumers, employees, local environment, American manufacturers, local small business and shareholders. The secondary social stakeholders are the local, state and federal government (state and federal due to Wal-Mart’s enormous financial impact on the U.S. Economy and its lobbying power), anti-Wal-Mart activists (including local community activists, broad-based activists against the spread of â€Å"The Wal-Mart Way†, and environmental activists), the media. Responsibilities Economical Responsibilities: Provide fair paying jobs, profit to shareholders with as little impact as possible on local merchants, purchasing from U.S. Manufacturers as much as possible Legal Responsibilities: Protecting Wal-Mart employees, protecting shareholders with sound business practices and limiting costly lawsuits that may affect their bottom line, comply with local/state/federal environmental and consumer laws. Ethical Responsibilities: Take into consideration the impact on local small businesses of the communities it moves into, listen and respect the wishes, concerns and cultures of those communities, reduce environmental impact. Philanthropic Responsibilities: Give back to the community and environment equal to or greater than what it has taken, continue to fund charities such as scholarships in proportion to the growth of Wal-Mart and its net profit. COURSES OF ACTION/ALTERNATIVES: †¢ It can save the local manufacturers from the episodes of global recession. But if purchases are made from other countries there are alternatives for a company. †¢ A revision should be made in respect of the benefits of the employees, which may render many jobless. †¢ Need to focus on development of employees irrespective of their gender. If not then there will be male dominant workforce and will effect the reputation of the company. †¢ Appoint a specialist team to detect the route cause to avoid future lawsuits against the company. VALUATION/SELECTION OF BEST ALTERNATIVE: †¢ Give an opportunity to small merchants to work with the company and it can be proved useful. †¢ Provide good benefits to the employees so that they are motivated to work loyally. †¢ Form an alliance with an external party to help solve the problems of the employees. †¢ Stop employing employees who prove to be a liability for the company. †¢ Avoid cheap labor by not employing illegal immigrants. †¢ Revision of benefits strategy. Limited risk initiative. IMPLEMENTATION PLAN: †¢ Purchasing from the local market at a reasonable price will lead to good business relations. Will increase the market