Women s Role On The Home, And Would This Create A Domino...

Latina women have come from a long line of women that know their place and the values that she should uphold. Marriage is one of the biggest stepping stones in a women’s life, she finally gets to up bring and have her own family unit. She follows and stands next to her husband all the time. She is no longer intentionally part of the family unit that she once was. In this research my main questions regarding the way Latina women have overcome and dealt with the problems faced on a daily bases in regards to Gender Violence in Latino Communities. To what extent do Latina women follow the societal expectations or roles a woman should have? What are the barriers that undocumented woman face when looking for resources, Is there stigma ties to undocumented women, or Latina women? Are societal expectations still a key role on women in these communities in regards to how to deal with domestic violence in the home, and would this create a domino effect? The research question this research is aimed at to really to affirm to reaffirm, what has already been stated in previous scholarly articles, but as well to bring a geographical area of study that would bring up different data as well as stories that come along with investigating gender violence in Latino communities. When do these woman say enough is enough and being to look for help in the community? Are there even proper resources that provided the necessary help? Many women do not look for the help or resources that the communityShow MoreRelatedWomen in the Odyssey1646 Words   |  7 PagesWomen form an important part of each society, however their role and importance to its function are often times overlooked. Society is/was organized and directed by men. All of the most important positions and purposes within it`s routine were filled by males. This societal organization is often times reflected in many pieces of literature of various time periods, however there are texts in wh ich contrary to the patriarchal society models, women are given substantial importance within the plot. Homer`sRead MoreAudience And Purpose Goes Here1302 Words   |  6 Pagesin the workplace along with movement towards diminishing the pay gap between males and females, females are still to this day very sparse within scientific communities and are especially underrepresented in the field of physics. The great underrepresentation in such a vastly growing field creates a domino effect that further prevents women from wanting to join such a field. Fix this paragraph Physics has always been a dominantly male subject. When asked about famous scientists, Marie Curie is tooRead MoreSubstances Include Those Like Stressful Life Events Such1690 Words   |  7 PagesEating Disorders During adolescence, we see eating disorders develop in young men and women. 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Further, on the back of changing and busy lifestyle, fast emergingRead MoreBreastfeeding Persuasive Speech1606 Words   |  7 PagesKids are important to life and its existence, it is a natural thing. Our world must face all the moral that comes with it. This involve mothers to feed their babies through breastfeeding at any given time and at any place. The moment woman has a baby, she is faced with many decisions. One of the significant decision is whether to breastfeed her child. Almost everyone will suggest that breastfeeding has many benefits. These benefits are for the breastfeeding mothers, the babie s, and for the economyRead MoreCombating Violence Against Women By Alice Walker1533 Words   |  7 PagesViolence Against Women The Color Purple, written by Alice Walker, is a story written about the struggles of a colored woman in the 1930’s. The central character, Celie, experienced more abuse in her life than love and struggled to understand the world around her. In the novel the author is able to captivate her audience and through a series of letters written to GOD, create a relationship between Celie and her readers. Reading the novel you immediately began to sympathize with this young girl (Celie)Read MoreWe Can Not Deny Society s Progression Of Social Equality Essay1187 Words   |  5 PagesWe cannot deny society’s progression of social equality, however, it is imperative that we not only understand the inequalities that are presently riddled in our social framework, but also understand how inequalities effect people at both micro and macro levels and how they intersect. Acquiring some base knowledge of institutionalized inequalities is fundamental to any attempts in rectifying (or easi ng) social injustices. Using Patricia Hill Collins’ Intersectionality theory, along with Omi and Winants’Read MoreThe Fight For The Equality Of Women2457 Words   |  10 PagesWhile the fight for the equality of women in Canadian society is one that still persists, had it not been for the early 20th century, women would not have the fundamental rights that they do today. Before the outbreak of WW1, Canadian women faced a number of unfortunate realities. Not only were their gender roles strictly bound to domestic services and household work, women were also viewed as men’s property that could not defy the ideas of their husbands, and were denied the right to make politicalRead MoreEssay about Social Stratification 1554 Words   |  7 Pages1996: page 37.) Some of the ways in which socio-economic status can be seen throughout society is through housing, education, youth and health. In Australia, families and individuals place great value on home ownership, and the area in which they live. â€Å"Housing in our society serves a dual role; it assists in meeting physical needs and it provides a mean for symbolising social position.† (Aspin, Lois J., 1996: page 86). Housing, is a valued resource and various social groups have different accessRead MoreRetailing Characteristics of Fast Food Stores and Their Impact on Customer Sales and Satisfaction29639 Words   |  119 Pagesthere’s little about today’s environment that looks like the mid-1990s. The global economy has changed, consumer demand has shifted, and retailers’ operating systems today are infused with far more technology than was the case six years ago. Saturated home markets, fierce competition and restrictive legislation have relentlessly pushed major food retailers into the globalization mode. Since the mid-1990s, numerous governments have opened up their economies as well, to the free markets and foreign investment

Role of Financial Institutions in the Global Economy Free Essays

Globalization has sparked a revolution in information and communication technology, resulting in the emergence of an era that boasts the arrival of new levels of global interconnectedness. As a result, globalization has also increased the significance of the many different roles that financial institutions play in the overall global economy. Financial institutions can play several roles, ranging from operating as a simple method of savings, to functioning as an important revitalization source in a low-income community. We will write a custom essay sample on Role of Financial Institutions in the Global Economy or any similar topic only for you Order Now This paper will explain the general role of financial institutions in the global economy, will touch on more significant individual roles, and discuss the overall role of international financial institutions. Research indicates that a financial institutions’ role as an intermediary is clearest in the credit and deposit business (Krayer, 2002). The usual function involves clients bringing to the bank their savings, or money which the bank transfers to its credit clients in the form of loans. In the loan instance, a borrower’s credit rating may change during the life of a loan, thereby changing the value of the loan at that point in time, which reflects the interest and amortization payments expected in the future (Krayer, 2002). In some cases, credits may even become entirely worthless if borrowers become insolvent and bankrupt (Krayer, 2002). Another function which banks perform within an economy is rating and selecting the loans they finance. Through their activities as an agent, another essential function performed by banks is to reduce risks overall (Krayer, 2002). In this way, the general role of banks is to undertake and provide specific products or services. Financial institutions also play an additional role within an economy by granting loans, processing payments, accepting deposits, and carrying out investments. Through these activities, banks create added value for their clients, employees, service providers and shareholders. As a result, there is a significant amount of potential damage were a bank to collapse. Thus, the economic benefits generated by a bank are basically no different from the economic benefits generated by a doctor, teacher or train driver: by exercising, to the best of their knowledge and abilities, their specialist function in competition with others, companies and their employees make their contribution to economic benefit (Krayer, 2002). Research indicates that bankers act responsibly when they ensure that their house is in order and resist the temptation to pass off poor financial performance as a contribution to the economy (Krayer, 2002). Larger financial institutions play an additional role than just that of providing typical banking services. Financial institutions can form the core of economic development in a low-income community. For example, the World Bank’s focus is on project lending and structural reforms that enhance long-run development and poverty alleviation (Stiglitz, 1998). The role of the World Bank in the global economy is to address pressing issues such as weak financial sectors, lack of transparency and poor governance in the corporate sectors, and weaknesses in external liability management will help restore confidence among foreign and domestic investors (Stiglitz, 1998). In this way, the World Bank acts to reactivate poor economies and thus to protect and extend social and economic achievements. In poorer countries, the World Bank appears to operate in coordination with the government as it steps in and fills the income-security gap that is left by companies closing and workers losing their jobs. Over the longer term, the World Bank will be working with countries to help them design modern, durable social safety nets that complement their other structural reforms (Stiglitz, 1998). Finally, as illustrated above, the role of financial institutions is very diverse, as communities depend on them for basic transactions such as savings and loans. In the larger view, however, banks operate as the financial support of an economy, the stabilization of which the community depends on. How to cite Role of Financial Institutions in the Global Economy, Essay examples

The Quality of Financial Information in the Annual Report Sample

Question: Analyzed Whether the Disclosures Made are as per the Specific Provisions of AASS. Answer: Introduction Assets are the main part for effective and efficient functioning of an organization and while preparing the financial statements for the year end the amount is written off from the value of an asset as depreciation which is the amount incurred on account of loss of tear and wears, change in technology, etc. Another amount which has been written off from the value of an asset is Impairment. The main aim of this report is to assess the quality of financial information in the annual report. The emphasis has been laid on the Impairment of an Asset. In the first, the requirements of disclosure have been mentioned as per Australian Accounting Standard Board (AASB) 136. Then the disclosure made by the company is discussed and analyzed whether the disclosures made are as per the specific provisions of AASB 136. Thereafter, the difficulties faced in checking whether the assets has been actually impaired or not has been discussed. Then the list of issues have been mentioned which will be consi dered or taken into account by the directors of the company while making the calculations for the impairment of the assets. At the last the study has been closed with proper and adequate conclusion. The report has divided into several parts so as to give the understanding of the concept of Impairment to the readers. Disclsoure Requirements as per AASB 136 Australian Accounting Standards Board 136 provides the guidelines on the topic Impairment of an asset. Following are the relevant disclosures that every company to which this standard shall apply shall comply for each class of asset: The amount of the impairment made for the particular asset shall be charged to the Profit and Loss Account for the relevant period and the statement of comprehensive Income in which the impairment losses are included. The reversal amount of impairment made for the particular asset shall be recognized in the Profit and Loss Account for the relevant period and the statement of comprehensive Income in which the those impairment losses are reversed. In case of revalued assets, the amount pertaining to the impairment losses are recognized the statement of other comprehensive income for the relevant period. In case of revalued assets, the amount pertaining to the reversal of impairment losses are recognized in the statement of other comprehensive income for the relevant period (AASB,2010). The aforesaid requirements are disclosed in the schedule pertaining to the Reconciliation of Carrying Amount for each class of assets where the opening balance and closing balance at the year end is also mentioned. In addition to the above disclosure, following disclosures are further required: Where an entity reports the reportable segment that too in accordance with AASB 8, then its mandatory to disclose by recognizing the amount of impairment loss and reversals thereof in the subsequent period in the Statement of Profit and Loss Account and the statement of comprehensive income for the year end. In case of an individual asset, goodwill or cash generating unit, the entity shall disclose the following: The situations which has happened during the year and has made it important to recognize the impairment loss and reversal thereof if any The amount pertaining to impairment and reversal. In case of an individual asset, its nature and the reportable segment if any. In case of Cash Generating Unit, its description and the amount of impairment and reversal recognized by the segment which is reportable as per the AASB 8. The recoverable amount of any asset is either Fair Value less costs to sale or Value in use. If it is fair value then how it has been arrived and if it is value in use then which discount rate has been used to calculate the flows. In this way, the disclosures are required. Annual Report Complanace with Requirements For facilitating the study further, the company Woolworths Limited has been chosen. The analysis of whether the annual report complies with the disclosure requirements as per the AASB 136 is given below (Woolworths, 2015): As per Note 12 Property Plant and Equipment and Note 13 Intangible Assets of the Annual Report of the Company, the carrying amounts of these assets are arrived after deduction depreciation and the impairment loss. As per Note 12 of the Annual report, it is mentioned as how to calculate the recoverable amount and states that the impairment loss is recognized as and when carrying amount of any assets is increase by its recoverable amount. The statement has been written that the Property Plant and Equipment are checked at each reporting date for impairment and Intangibles are reviewed at least for annual. The procedure of calculating the Recoverable amount has been detailed and stated that the recoverable amount is the higher of Value in use or Fair value less costs to sell. The assumptions regarding the calculation of Value in use and Fair Value has been mentioned and states that for Value in Use the effective discount rate of 13% may be taken as based on the past year records. The reconciliation of the carrying amount at the beginning of the year and year end has been disclosed. It has been disclosed that the no reversals of impairment losses have been made during the year. The impairment loss has been charged to Profit and Loss Account and Statement of Other Comprehensive Income. The company has made separate disclosure for impairment loss on reportable segment Home Improvement and has disclosed that the change in assumptions adopted for calculation will not change the impairment loss amount by so many amounts which can create material effect in the financial statement. In this way, the annual report contains all the matters that is required to be disclosed as per AASB 136. Issues in Impairment Testing One of the major issues that have been confronted by almost all the companies is that till which level the testing for impairment shall be done. This is a very debatable question in this field but it is done as per the past requirements. It depends on the nature and details of the asset and how the allocation is being made for each cash generating units. Second major issue that has been encountered is the difference between the Value in Use and the Fair value. Fair value is the price of an asset which can be easily fetched from the market or the amount investor is ready to pay for the same whereas Value in use is the amount of cash discounted as per the given rate. Third major issue is the usage of discounted rate which is required to calculate the Value in Use. Discount rate shall be as per the relevant rate in the market and shall not be decided in isolation. Without having the correct discount rate, the amount of cash flows will be highly variable and which in turn will not provide the best results. Fourth is that the grouping of assets shall include some types of working capital or short term or current asset (Dolson, 2005). Fifth is that the test for impairment shall be done on regular and periodical basis. The model selected for impairment shall be one which can be easily adapted to the changeable external environment and which can be applied for years to come to an individual or the class of an asset (Chow and Marchev,2010). Last is that the discount rate after tax shall be used while calculating the Value in Use otherwise the 30% pertaining to tax shall be wrongly added to the value of cash flows generating from the various cash generating units. While Calculating Imairment Four major issues which shall be considered while calculating the Impairment: Adoption of Correct Discount Rate First of all the company shall take into account that discount rate which exhibits that the formulae of calculating rate gets itself arranged at the time of any change in the external environment. Also the rate so calculated shall be post tax otherwise the cash flows will higher by the tax amount. Determining the Proper Cash Generating Units The Company shall define the correct cash generating units and that too with proper allocation. Wrong allocation will lead to wrong estimation of the impairment loss. Level of testing the Impairment The impairment shall be checked to that level after which the testing will not serve any purpose. The test for impairment shall be done each year and it should be tested at the low level of the management. It is because the lower level will not in any manner will be the higher of operating segments. Thus, the level shall be as per the needs. Calculation of Value in Use and Fair Value less Cost of Sales It is advised as per AASB 136 that the Fair value less Cost of sales shall be calculated using discounting cash flow technique otherwise it will not be comparable with the Value in Use and thus will always provides wrong results for impairment. Thus, these four shall be considered while performing the calculations. Conclusion Assets play very important role for every organization in order to have future benefits. Along with the maintaining of an asset, the documents of company including the Annual report which contains the financial report of the company. Depreciation and Impairment are the two distinct and different terms which depletes the value of an asset and in the case of latter there can be the place of reversal. In the paper the impairment of assets has been detailed. It has been described by throwing light on the AASB 136 and AASB 8. The description has started from the disclosure requirements as envisaged by the AASB 136 till the issues that will be considered by the top management to review the impairment testing and calculations. Thus, in the way to conclude the study is extensive and the impairment of assets have significant place in the annual report. References Australian Govt, (2010), Impairment of Assets available at https://www.aasb.gov.au/admin/file/content102/c3/AASB136_07-04_ERDRjun10_07-09.pdf accessed on 15/04/2017. Chow E and Marchev M, (2014), Impairment Issues to watch available at https://www.pwc.com.au/assurance/ifrs/assets/ifrsinbrief-se-15may13.pdf accessed on 16/04/2017 Dolson M, (2015), A Look at Current Financial Measures available at https://www.pwc.com/hu/hu/services/assets/ifrs_kiadvanyok/in_depth/testing_for_impairment_in_the_upstream_industries.pdf accessed on 15/04/2017. . Woolworths Official Website, (2015) available at https://www.woolworths.com.au/ accessed on 16/04/.2017.

The management systems related to internal and external environment

Attitudes towards employees: Employee benefit Wages, Salaries, Annual Leave and Sick Leave The organization maintains these expenses on an prepayment basis. They are therefore accounted for after they fall due. This therefore implies that they are partially reflected in the books of accounts of the period concerned. In effect the report reflects the payments due for services up to the final day of the reporting period.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on The management systems related to internal and external environment specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Employee Share Plans, Long Service Leave, Long Service Leave The net value of the amount due and payable to all the employees is reflected as an expense to the employees corresponding to an increase in the organizations equity. The amount due is measured and evaluated for the period within which it is unconditionally payable. With the exceptions of un-qualifying shar es the amount is recognized in whole of the total entitlements. Defined Contribution Superannuation Plans, Defined Benefit Superannuation Plans and Employee Termination Benefit The organization adopts an individualistic strategy   that makes single and individual computations for   each plan. The present value of future benefits its therefore calculated by discounting the future benefits at a discounting rate that is a balance on the maturity dates of   government bonds. This incorporates the projected unit credit method by a certified auctorial. if   benefits that accrue to every employee increase the amount is distributed on a straight line basis implying that the employee will receive an amount of the increase immediately it falls due. This increase is also reflected in the company’s consolidated income statement of the reporting period. The past service costs on the other hand are measured as the growth in the present value of the permanent or fixed benefits that the employee is entitled to in previous and current periods. Attitudes towards Customers: Aircraft configuration meeting customer demand Like any other business the company has over the past few years faced a great increase in the number of customer as well as consumer needs. The company has therefore made a structural adjustment by increasing the number of aircraft to take care of the addition al capacity. Growing consumer demands have also forced the company to adjust the seating arrangements to improve the customer service experience. This also ensures that the customer service level meets international standards. Qantas provide their customer to combine points from flying, credit and debit card spend and retail spend into single account The technological trend in the airline industry has favored the use of plastic money. Amidst the pertinent and obvious structural concerns, the credit card system has ensured convenience security and flexibility in transactions specifically in th e transport sector. Passengers get to earn points as a form of motivation and marketing for every flight they take. The points can either be based on the mileage traveled or the amount spent. The points my be used to upgrade a ticket or purchase products at the convenience of the customer.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Qantas services their customer by another brand of aircraft which is called Jetstart’s The diversity of the consumers goes requires the company to make provision for all levels of income earners. The company has taken advantage of the low income segment by partnering with a smaller airline that offers alternative cheaper but equally quality service. This falls in line with the price segmentation strategy in consumer marketing Caring for customer Customer care s a fundamental and important aspect of a business. It offers a basis and rationale for the formulation of the companies strategies and policies. The company has made an initiative to ensure that their customers are satisfied and assisted in every possible means. It has engaged consumer service surveys to measure the performance and effectiveness of their customer care. This has generated alternative consumer satisfaction strategies that will allow the company to grow and offer better service ( Qantas annual report, 2010). Attitudes towards competitors: Higher performance in every thing The transport sector has over the last two decades grown to become among the most competitive volatile and revolutionary sector in the world economy. The situation is even more aggressive in the private sector with every company seeking a piece of the large consumer base. The company therefore has a competitive and visionary attitude towards its competition. It has installed strategic mechanisms that constantly review the companies performance ratings as against its competitors to ensure th at it remains in front or at least on the front line. Safety It is every customers requirement that their means of transport be safe and reliable. The government as well as industrial requirements for safety are clear and strict. The airline has therefore given paramount importance to its safety precautions and guaranteed its customers an ultimately safe experience. It has invested in health safety programs such as health surveillance monitors that ensure that the customers along with the employees operate in a safe environment. Training and development The airlines employee base attracts a variety of professional limits that allows the labor force to benefit from a wide range of skills. Majority of these employees are based locally and are therefore easily accessible to the company. Updating market needs A pertinent characteristic of the contemporary consumer market is the changing preferences and tastes. It is therefore important for every company to constantly redefine and re- ev aluate its consumer needs data to ensure that it keeps abreast with the recent trends. The airline has responded to the changing consumer needs by simplifying and easing the check in experience.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on The management systems related to internal and external environment specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Strong complementary Brand In a market full of substitutes a company needs to diversify its portfolio to increase the chances of consumer following. The company has therefore partnered with an alternate smaller airline that allows it to access the low fare market. This makes sure that it maintains a presence in all areas and segments of the market Reference Qantas annual report. (2010) The Sum. Web. Web. This report on The management systems related to internal and external environment was written and submitted by user Amy Campos to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Free Essays on The Color Of Water

Paper on the color of water The Color of Water by James McBride is a book about the author finding his own identity though discovering who his mother, Ruth really is. Throughout his whole life he has felt there is something different between his mother and himself. His father and his eleven brothers and sisters were all black and his mother was white. This never really bothered James when he was a child. His mother never talked about race and didn’t see herself as any different from her children. She never talked about her past and always changed the topic whenever he asked her any questions about where she came from or why she was different from himself and the rest of his siblings. It was not until he wrote this book that all of his questions about his race and identity were answered because he finally uncovered his mothers past. Ruth had a miserable life growing up. Her family was Jewish Orthodox, and first generation Americans. She spent most of her childhood moving around with her family as her father looked for work as a rabbi. Her family finally settled in Suffolk, Virginia. It was a small town which was racially segregated and Jews were not well liked there. They lived on the black side of town and her father was the rabbi and they owned and small store. She only had one friend that she talked to most of her childhood. â€Å"White kids hated Jews in my school. ‘Hey ruth, when did you start being a dirty Jew?’ they’d ask . I couldn't stand to be ridiculed.† (McBride, 80) Going to a predominantly white school caused Ruth to have low self esteem because she wasn't accepted by the other kids. â€Å"In school kids called me ‘Christ killer’ or ‘Jew baby’.† (McBride, 40) Ruth's family life was not much better than her social life. Her father was very strict and she was afraid of him. â€Å"There were to many rules to follow, too many forbiddens and ‘you cant’s and ‘you musnt’s,’ but does anybody say they... Free Essays on The Color Of Water Free Essays on The Color Of Water Paper on the color of water The Color of Water by James McBride is a book about the author finding his own identity though discovering who his mother, Ruth really is. Throughout his whole life he has felt there is something different between his mother and himself. His father and his eleven brothers and sisters were all black and his mother was white. This never really bothered James when he was a child. His mother never talked about race and didn’t see herself as any different from her children. She never talked about her past and always changed the topic whenever he asked her any questions about where she came from or why she was different from himself and the rest of his siblings. It was not until he wrote this book that all of his questions about his race and identity were answered because he finally uncovered his mothers past. Ruth had a miserable life growing up. Her family was Jewish Orthodox, and first generation Americans. She spent most of her childhood moving around with her family as her father looked for work as a rabbi. Her family finally settled in Suffolk, Virginia. It was a small town which was racially segregated and Jews were not well liked there. They lived on the black side of town and her father was the rabbi and they owned and small store. She only had one friend that she talked to most of her childhood. â€Å"White kids hated Jews in my school. ‘Hey ruth, when did you start being a dirty Jew?’ they’d ask . I couldn't stand to be ridiculed.† (McBride, 80) Going to a predominantly white school caused Ruth to have low self esteem because she wasn't accepted by the other kids. â€Å"In school kids called me ‘Christ killer’ or ‘Jew baby’.† (McBride, 40) Ruth's family life was not much better than her social life. Her father was very strict and she was afraid of him. â€Å"There were to many rules to follow, too many forbiddens and ‘you cant’s and ‘you musnt’s,’ but does anybody say they...

Influence of the Olmec Civilization on Mesoamerica

Influence of the Olmec Civilization on Mesoamerica The Olmec civilization thrived along Mexicos gulf coast from approximately 1200-400 B.C. and is considered the parent culture of many of the important Mesoamerican cultures that came after, including the Aztec and Maya. From their great cities, San Lorenzo and La Venta, Olmec traders spread their culture far and wide and eventually built a large network through Mesoamerica. Although many aspects of Olmec culture have been lost to time, what little is known about them is very important because their influence was so great. Olmec Trade and Commerce Before the dawn of the Olmec civilization, trade in Mesoamerica was common. Highly desirable items like obsidian knives, animal skins, and salt were routinely traded between neighboring cultures. The Olmecs created long-distance trade routes to obtain the things they needed, eventually making contacts all the way from the valley of Mexico to Central America. Olmec traders swapped finely made Olmec celts, masks and other small pieces of art with other cultures such as the Mokaya and Tlatilco, getting jadeite, serpentine, obsidian, salt, cacao, pretty feathers and more in return. These extensive trade networks spread Olmec culture far and wide, spreading Olmec influence throughout Mesoamerica. Olmec Religion The Olmec had a well-developed religion and belief in a cosmos comprised of an underworld (represented by the Olmec fish monster), the Earth (Olmec Dragon) and skies (bird monster). They had elaborate ceremonial centers: the well-preserved Complex A at La Venta is the best example. Much of their art is based on their religion, and it is from surviving pieces of Olmec art that researchers have managed to identify no fewer than eight different Olmec gods. Many of these early Olmec gods, such as the Feathered Serpent, the maize god, and the rain god, found their way into the mythology of later civilizations such as the Maya and Aztecs. Mexican researcher and artist Miguel Covarrubias made a famous diagram of how different Mesoamerican divine images all diverged from an early Olmec source. Olmec Mythology: Apart from the religious aspects of Olmec society mentioned above, Olmec mythology seems to have caught on with other cultures as well. The Olmecs were fascinated with were-jaguars, or human-jaguar hybrids: some Olmec art has caused speculation that they believed that some human-jaguar cross-breeding had once taken place, and depictions of fierce were-jaguar babies are a staple of Olmec art. Later cultures would continue the human-jaguar obsession: one good example is the jaguar warriors of the Aztec. Also, at the El Azuzul site near San Lorenzo, a pair of extremely similar statues of young men placed with a pair of jaguar statues brings to mind the two pairs of hero twins whose adventures are narrated in the Popol Vuh, known as the Maya bible. Although there are no confirmed courts used for the famous Mesoamerican ballgame at Olmec sites, rubber balls used for the game were unearthed at El Manatà ­. Olmec Art: Artistically speaking, the Olmec were far ahead of their time: their art shows a skill and aesthetic sense far greater than that of contemporary civilizations. The Olmec produced celts, cave paintings, statues, wooden busts, statues, figurines, stelae and much more, but their most famous artistic legacy is doubtless the colossal heads. These giant heads, some of which stand nearly ten feet tall, are striking in their artwork and majesty. Although the colossal heads never caught on with other cultures, Olmec art was very influential on the civilizations that followed it. Olmec stelae, such as La Venta Monument 19, can be indistinguishable from Mayan art to the untrained eye. Certain subjects, such as plumed serpents, also made the transition from Olmec art to that of other societies. Engineering and Intellectual Accomplishments: The Olmec were the first great engineers of Mesoamerica. There is an aqueduct at San Lorenzo, carved out of dozens of massive stones then laid side-by side. The royal compound at La Venta shows engineering as well: the massive offerings of Complex A are complicated pits filled with stones, clay, and supporting walls, and there is a tomb there built with basalt support columns. The Olmec may have given Mesoamerica its first written language as well. Undecipherable designs on certain pieces of Olmec stonework may be early glyphs: later societies, such as the Maya, would have elaborate languages using glyphic writing and would even develop books. As the Olmec culture faded into the Epi-Olmec society seen in the Tres Zapotes site, the people developed an interest in the calendar and astronomy, two other fundamental building blocks of Mesoamerican society. Olmec Influence and Mesoamerica: Researchers who study ancient societies embrace something called the continuity hypothesis. This hypothesis posits that there has been a set of religious and cultural beliefs and norms in place in Mesoamerica that has run through all of the societies that lived there and that information from one society can often be used to fill in the gaps left in others. The Olmec society then becomes particularly important. As the parent culture - or at least one of the most important early formative cultures of the region - it had influence out of proportion with, say, its military might or prowess as a trading nation. Olmec pieces that give some information about the gods, society or have a bit of writing on them - such as the famous Las Limas Monument 1 - are particularly prized by researchers. Sources: Coe, Michael D and Rex Koontz. Mexico: From the Olmecs to the Aztecs. 6th Edition. New York: Thames and Hudson, 2008 Cyphers, Ann. Surgimiento y decadencia de San Lorenzo, Veracruz. Arqueologà ­a Mexicana Vol XV - Num. 87 (Sept-Oct 2007). P. 30-35. Diehl, Richard A. The Olmecs: Americas First Civilization. London: Thames and Hudson, 2004. Grove, David C. Cerros Sagradas Olmecas. Trans. Elisa Ramirez. Arqueologà ­a Mexicana Vol XV - Num. 87 (Sept-Oct 2007). P. 30-35. Gonzalez Tauck, Rebecca B. El Complejo A: La Venta, Tabasco Arqueologà ­a Mexicana Vol XV - Num. 87 (Sept-Oct 2007). p. 49-54.

Contemporary Tourism Trends Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Contemporary Tourism Trends - Essay Example 1), who refers to vacations in the 21st century as ''Das gekaufte Paradies'' (the bought paradise), the tourism industry is increasingly subsuming the identity of an ''experience industry'', with tourists willing to pay tourism organizers to help find optimal experiences within the limited time available. Opaschowski (2001) suggests that tourists are looking for emotional stimuli they want to buy feelings and not products. They want to personally experience the immaterial qualities, seeking ambience, aesthetics and atmosphere, looking for an experience full of varying intimacies, intensities and complexities. Cultural tourism such as the trip to Bath Since experiencing the 'other' is the great motivational factor in cultural heritage tourism, the search for unspoilt cultures inevitably becomes a natural choice because cultures unknown to or not yet experience by these seekers exist but constantly face the wipe out from modernization. The anxiety and eagerness intensifies that the chance to experience these cultures as pure as they are in the beginning can no longer be available if another day is let pass, so the increase to these areas will increase. Over the past years, trends in tourist demand and consumer behavior have revealed that tourists want to visit cultural and historical sites as well as to explore regions and landscapes as a whole. Tourists select destinations not based only on climate, art and historical heritage, human landmarks and environmental activities, but also according to eno-gastronomic resources. Tourist demands are increasingly shaping the gastronomic supply, meaning the potential of wine and gastronomic products has in Bath's national market and across. In many European countries, wine and gastronomic tourism seems complex and variegated, but also dynamic and rich in social, cultural and economic implications (Antonioli Corigliano, 1996a). According to Wearing (2002, p. 243), the tourist in the 21st century is ''searching for new and exciting forms of travel in defiance of a mass-produced product'' yet without ''actually having to involve themselves in any way'', a reflection of increasing commodification and depersonalization within modern and post-modern society (Beck, 1999; Giddens, 1999; MacCannell, 1976). Commodification has changed tourism experiences in the 21st century from that of the traditional search for the totally unknown, the utmost challenging and dangerous to that of safety and comfort, to that of ''gaze'' but also embodiment beyond individual's onsite experience. With commodification, the cultural experience is no longer authentic (Birgit Trauer, 2006). Authenticity is generally regarded as the highest importance for tourists interested in heritage (Moscardo & Pearce, 1986; Timothy & Boyd, 2003). A way to preserve such a goal is to facilitate the tourists to involve in exploring and searching by their own initiations without the need for interaction with any of the staffs. One of the challenges the managers face is the low degree of interaction with staff. As the visitor has a limited contact with staff, necessarily to make the visitors feel 'warm and exciting' (Schmenner, 1995) and this will involve detailed

Do social networks encourage sport participation Dissertation

Do social networks encourage sport participation - Dissertation Example Individuals started to build online persona. In reality, some information is very confidential to the extent no one would want to share with their family and certainly not with a professional hiring manager. Individuals are using this new data base in of personal information in questionable ways ethically. The lack of regulations, clear guidelines, has led to dissemination of information across the internet for a purpose other than that intended. Employment screening is one of the more infringements to the rights to Facebook users. This is a paper that responds to the question: do social networks encourage sport participation? List of Contents Introduction Aim and objectives Rationale Literature review and theoretical framework Methodology Findings, Analysis and Evaluation Final discussion and Recommendations Recommendations for further research Do social networks encourage sport participation? Introduction Social Media is a great way to encourage sport participation by spreading the word about local sports and other general physical activity programmes. Social media can be used as a tool to further participation in sports. A social networking service is an online platform, or site that is used for social interaction. They focuses on facilitation of building social relations or social networks among people sharing same interests, backgrounds, real-life connections or sporting activities. A social network service is constituted of each user (often represented through a profile), the individual’s social links, and some additional services. Most social network services are web-based and provide an online form of interaction among the users through the Internet. Nowadays the world is changing rapidly and marketing styles should follow people trends. Social media has become a platform that is easily accessible to anyone with internet access. Increased communication for organizations fosters brand awareness and often, improved customer service. Also, social me dia is a cheap and effective platform for organizations to implement marketing campaigns. Social networking websites allow people to interact with each other and build relationships. Business organisations join these sites, so that people could interact with the product or company. That interaction feels personal to users because of their previous experiences with social networking site interactions. Social networking users are allowed to â€Å"retweet† or â€Å"repost† comments made by the product being promoted. In consequence, when people repeat the message, that company posted, all other users are able to see the message, therefore reaching more people. What is more, through social networking sites like Facebook or Goolge+, organizations can create their own group, where interested people follow the company and see different news and promotions1 every day, when simply checking their social feeds. As well as, the organisation itself can choose who to invite into the ir group, thereby reaching narrow target market. Cell phone is another aspect of social media marketing that makes it even more effective..Today, many cell phones have social networking capabilities: individuals are notified of any happenings on social networking sites through their cell phones, in real-time. This constant connection to social networking sites means products and companies can constantly remind and update followers about their

Revolutionizing a Better Era of Technology in the Future of Medicine Essay Example for Free

Revolutionizing a Better Era of Technology in the Future of Medicine Essay Alan Kay states, â€Å"The best way to predict the future is to invent it yourself† (qtd. in Garreau 88). Many Americans ponder what the future might hold. Will technology bring a new era to mankind or will it be the end to all eternity? Ray Kurzweil, inventor of the year by MIT, argues â€Å"he is convinced that medicine is moving sufficiently fast; therefore, any person who can stay healthy for the next 20 years may so benefit from the explosion in biological technology as to be immortal† (Garreau 90-91). With the advancements of medical technology continuing to climb, this quote illustrates that the future will make for a better world. Organizations such as The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency known as DARPA, The Continuous Assisted Performance known as CAP, and The National Science Foundation fund studies that demonstrate how genetic engineering will impact America’s future by developing a bigger, better, stronger individual (Garreau 19-35). Each day as the advancements of technology doubles, the world will soon not worry about diseases and health; everyday gene technology will better our minds, bodies, and most future generations, thus making the â€Å"Heaven Scenario†. In the Article â€Å"Gene Technology and Tissue Engineering† Andree, department of Plastic and Surgery, Freiburg University Hospital, states â€Å"Gene therapy is based on the concept for certain proteins or polypeptides into a cell and, thus, may be used for potential modulation of t issue. Genes can be delivered using either an in vitro approach, and with viral or non-viral vectors. Genes may therefore be stable, or transiently expressed by the cells† (93). This fact illustrates the concept of genetic manipulation and how each cell is expressed. Both Rob DeSalle, Ph.D. in Division of Invertebrates, and Michael Yudell, MPH in Molecular Laboratories, summarize that the study of Genomics will have a major impact in medical services. If doctors knew how to discover someone’s exact diseases, then they can transform and improve those cells to stop in in its act (117-118). With the help from DARPA and CAP and the study and treatments  of Gene therapy, Americans’ will soon find themselves living longer and healthier lives. DARPA funded by Michael Goldbatt, is one of the world’s foremost drivers of human enhancement (Garreau 19). Their vision is to â€Å"accelerate the future into being† (Garreau 21). DARPA help fund the computer mouse, graphics, weather satellites, and many other technologies (Garreau 25). One independent agency that works strongly with DARPA is CAP managed by John Carney (Garreau 28). CAPs advanta ge over DARPA is the laboratory. One idea that they are studying is â€Å"finding an enzyme that appears only in bacteria but not in us. It might exist only for a brief time in the bacteria, but without it, that life form cannot exist. Then you attack it† (Garreau 28-30). Organizations such as DARPA and CAP strive to make unstoppable human beings. For instance, take the well-developed movie Gattaca which came to theaters in 2010 and was about a man that manipulates his DNA to hide his identity to be a more advanced, genetically engineered, human being. No one is capable of stopping him from becoming a better meaningful species to society. Most Americans strive to build themselves up to become the best they can be. Americans study the use of DNA manipulation in bodies and cells to help fight off diseases and illnesses such as the common cold or flu. Goldblatt proclaims, â€Å"We do not fear the unknown, and we relish exploring the unknowable† (Garreau 19). Americans should be more like this quote and strive to become the best species that has ever existed. DARPA is studying a vaccine that will help in pain management. Such vaccines will make milestones in terms of medicine. If someone is hurt they will feel the first trigger of pain but the pain will soon subside (Garreau 19-28). This pain vaccine will have many benefits to Americans dealing with diseases and to society. The National Science Foundation believed in the â€Å"Heaven Scenario†: They predicted in 10-20 years the world will evolve much better. Wearable sensors will enhance every person’s awareness of his or her health condition, environ ment, chemical pollutants, potential hazards, and information of interest about local business, natural resources, and the like. The human body will be more durable, healthy, energetic, easier to repair, and resistant to many kinds of stress, biological threats, and aging process, and technologies will compensated for many physical and mental disabilities and will eradicate altogether some handicaps that have plagues the lives of millions of people. (qtd. in Garreau 112-113) This statement  unveiled a world where technology advancements will mature in a way that Americans are capable of being healthier and happier individuals. The effects of genetic engineering impacts the future by manipulating genes to help Americans live longer. Enzo Russo and David Cove, authors of Genetic Engineering: Dreams and Nightmares, tell a brief story about a little girl that was suffering from a disease called Severe Combined Immune Deficiency. â€Å"She was the first known human being to be treated using gene therapy†¦After two years of therapy, this young girl was able to attend school normally, to swim, dance, ice skate with her family and friends† (117-118). With this example it substantially shows the achievements of Gene Therapy and how Americans greatly benefit from them. Children will have the privilege to go out and play or do whatever else their little imagination wants to do so they can be just like every other child. If doctors had a way to catch or see a disease before it overtakes someone’s body then they would be able to do something about it. Jacobs, consultant genetic counsellor Guy’s and St. Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, believes â€Å"Early identification of individuals with, or at risk of, hereditary disease can make a difference to patients and families in terms of accessing genetic services, early detection and risk-reducing measures. Several clinical guidelines recomm end undertaking family history assessment in clinical setting† (Jacobs, Chris, Christine 38). Jacobs also states that â€Å"Recognizing when off spring may be at risk of genetic condition such as cystic fibrosis, Duschenne muscular dystrophy or Huntington’s disease, can help couples to make choices about prenatal testing and pre-implantation genetic diagnosis. These procedures increase the possibility of a healthy baby and reduce the risk of passing the mutation to future generations† (Jacobs, Chris, Christine 38). With this possibility, think of how it will make a new era to mankind. Parents no longer have to worry about unborn babies and whether they will have the same disease as their ancestors. Another person that was influenced by Gene Therapy is Gregory Stock. Stock, director on Medicine, Technology, and society at the school of medicine of California, proclaims â€Å"In the future Americans will benefit from using ‘Artificial Chromosomes’. Future generations will be able to switch out one or two chromosomes that may be transferring diseases with a stronger chromosome† (qtd. in Garreau 116-117). There are many believers of the â€Å"Heaven Scenario† although all the outcomes  might not be the same. Ray Kurzweil, who was granted the national medal of technology, was the inventor of the â€Å"Heaven Scenario.† He stated â€Å"is there is no problem or challenge that there [is not] an idea to overcome that problem† (qtd. in Garreau 115). This statement argues that no matter how difficult something might proclaim to be, there will always be a new improved way to get thru. In terms of medicine, there will always be new inventions of t echnology and drugs that will make a better advancement then the former. No matter what the statistics say technology will always have an astonishing outcome. If Americans’ had the opportunity to formulate themselves at a higher level of humanity then why not go for it? (Garreau 115) Most Americans’ dream that one day the world will be a heavenly place for all humanity. With the advancements of new medical technology doubling and continuing to climb up this progressive ladder, Americans’ soon will be bigger, stronger, and healthier individuals. The inventions of new drugs, either injected or manipulated into genes, will influence making the outcome of the â€Å"Heaven Scenario† true. If more organizations like previously stated DARPA and CAP continue to find new ways of implementing and then attacking infections and disease: Americans’ will live much longer non-stressful lives. Imagine the outcome of waking up clear headed and pain free with no worries in sight. Future generations will have the knowledge and ability to know when a bad enzyme links on and attacks cells; furthermore, being able to stop the infection before it explodes and travels thru DNA. It will be a new era to mankind. Americans will be able to determine and choose ho w their children turn out. Children will be healthier and live longer lambent lives. Like my opening quote â€Å"the best way to predict the future is to invent it yourself.† Negative controversies about technology being the end of mankind should not influence Americans into not believing in the â€Å"Heaven Scenario,† thus sit back and watch the never ending achievements and outcomes of Gene therapy transmute the world into a better brighter norm. Works Cited Andree, C., et al. â€Å"Gene Technology and Tissue Engineering.† Minimally Therapy Allied Technologies 11.3 (2002): 93-99. Academic Search Premier. Web. 18 March 2014. DeSalle and Michael Yudell. Welcome To The Genome: A User’s Guide to Genetic Past, Present, and Future. Canada: John Wiley Sons. Inc., 2005. Print. Garreau, Joel. Radical Evolution: The Promise and Peril of Enhancing Our Minds, Our Bodies- and What It Means to Be Human. New York: Random House, 2005. Print. Jacobs, Chris, and Christine Patch. â€Å"Identifying Individuals Who Might Benefit From Genetic Services And Information.† Nursing Standard. 28.9 (2013): 37-42. Academic Search Premier. Web. 18 March 2014. Russo and David Cove. Genetic Engineering: Dreams and Nightmares. Oxford New York Tokyo: Oxford University Press, 1998. Print.

Marketing Paper -- essays research papers

Barnes and Noble is one of the biggest booksellers in the world. This wasn’t always so. B&N started off as a small bookstore in New York City. During that time, the store was not doing very well. Actually, it was about to close when it was bought by another store. Being bought out was one of the best things that could have happened to the store. Barnes and Noble today, has changed the way people shop for books; whether it is in one of their stores, or online. B&N has revolutionized the book buying experience. I want to discuss two ways in which they have done that. One way that B&N has done this is by making their stores so comfortable and inviting, and two is by opening their online store. Walking into a Barnes and Noble, I feel immediately comfortable. The way they have their stores set up makes it easy to browse, explore, and even to sit and read. With their cafes, comfy couches and chairs, B&N encourages customers to enjoy themselves. They are selling a whole experience, not just a book (Barnes and Noble.com). That is what makes them so unique in the book business. With the opening of their online store, B&N at first had problems. It was in 1996, that they first launched and estimated expense was over 50 million dollars (Trafficlabs.com). The reason for the problems was that the internet was relatively new, and Amazon had already carved out a niche for books online. It was in the combining of the brick and mortar store, and online services that saved ...

African American Essay Essay

My name is Michelle Williams-Agwagu and my ethnicity group is African American. African Americans came here by forced immigration. They were not invited here to America, and they certainly did not come here by choice. They were forced and taken on ships that brought them to America just to become slaves to the white people. Upon arrival to America, African Americans were treated poorly. Many of them were torn apart from their family members and some were infants that had no knowledge of whom they were as they became older. The group faced many challenges such as prejudice, segregation, and racism. A set of codes were implemented that all African Americans had to adhere to, or they would be punished by either getting beat by their master or possibly killed. African Americans were not allowed to have any education; therefore, no one was allowed to learn to read or write. The slave owners made sure of that and if any slave did learn to read or write, he or she would be punished by their owner. They were separated from the other people because of the color of their skin and was not allowed to eat, play, drink or have any interaction with the masters or the master’s family members unless it was to do household chores as their servant. They did not have many opinions when it came to making decisions. Unfortunately, African Americans were affected by dual labor market and red lining. In the early stages of African American emancipation, not many of them had education or access to quality higher education. Even if they had this education, they were forced into the lower labor market and regardless of the quality of their education they would start in much lower positions than that of their white counterparts. African Americans were affected by this because they were not given any meaningful jobs with any type of significant pay structure and benefits. The jobs were more short-term than long-term. Red lining is a reality in African American communities across the United States. Red lining is a practice which discriminates against Blacks of all economic sectors when they apply for home and business loans and consumer credit. Blacks, more than any other racial or ethnic group (with the possible exception of Native Americans), receive less credit. Through all the bad treatment that African Americans received from â€Å"white† Americans, they (AA) still participated in reverse discrimination. Reverse discrimination is still a problem here in the United States because it is racism; and racism is racism, no matter how we try to spin it. â€Å"Society classes an African American discriminating against a Caucasian as â€Å"reverse† discrimination because for most of American history, it was the African Americans who were persecuted for something that they could not control – their ethnicity. † (Libra, n. d. ) African Americans have also been affected by the glass ceilings form of discrimination, and that is still an ongoing problem also. â€Å"The â€Å"glass ceiling† refers to the barriers that often confront Ethnic Americans and women in trying to reach the upper ladders of corporate America. African Americans do not earn the same pay for comparable positions† (The Glass Ceiling for African, Hispanic (Latino), and Asian Americans, 2008. ) as that of their white counterparts in the same job. Environmental justice issues have plagued African Americans in the past and continue to do so today. In the past century, factories emitting toxic fumes and hazardous waste were positioned near large African American sections of major cities as well as small towns inhabited by mostly African Americans. Today, in areas of Louisiana along the Mississippi River known as â€Å"Cancer Alley†, petroleum and chemical manufacturing plans spew fumes and release carcinogenic chemicals near the water supplies of African Americans. There has long been controversy over this modern issue however no other ethnic or racial group has the desire to have these companies relocate factories near their living areas. African Americans have participated in affirmative action since the very beginning, in fact, affirmative action was implemented in the United States largely for the benefit of this group. Affirmative action makes a valiant attempt to make up for past and current discrimination against a certain group and makes jobs and opportunities that members of this group would not have access to ordinarily. Some African Americans agree with Affirmative Action, while some others disagree with it because they perceive it to be a handout and not being able to get jobs or opportunities on one’s own merit. We, as African Americans have and still face many forms of discrimination. Will it ever end, I do not think so. There have been attempts to close the gap and bring us into that circle of equality but I do not see that ever happening in its entirety, all though we know that all men are â€Å"supposedly† created equal. I culturally identify more with African Americans because it is who I am. However, it is evident that racism with any prefix is a problem in America † it is a problem in the entire world, and I hope people will start accepting people as people rather than accepting that they must hate people because of the color of their skin. Reference Page Libra, Themis. (n. d. ). Is reverse discrimination a problem in the United States?. Helium The Glass Ceiling for African, Hispanic (Latino), and Asian Americans (2008). Ethnic Majority.

The Ultimate Power Struggle: One’s Descent into Immorality

If we must fight, we should put up a damn good one. In my power struggles in the past, either within myself or with others, I realized that when I am in the right I don't back down. I assert my standpoint well and stand firm in what I believe in. All through my childhood, adolescent and adult years, I knew that if I own it, I win it.   The short story, â€Å"Hunters in the Snow† illustrates a complicated power struggle between three friends, who each sink into a sense of immoral conviction as they own up and affirm their weaknesses. The power struggle among the three characters, Tub, Frank and Kenny, is evident all throughout the story. At the beginning of the story we see Kenny, an insensitive man, play a scary joke on Tub by almost running down his friend with the truck. Right away, he shows the reader his dominance over Tub. Frank, on the other hand, treats Tub like a joke, ignoring Tub’s concerns and emphasizing Tub’s obesity as an impediment. With Kenny delightfully participating, he leaves Tub behind in the hike through the snow (Please cite the page number here). Tub meanwhile tries to forgive his friends, and struggles to keep up with their pace. As the story progresses, however, his submissive behavior changes and his struggle for power becomes pronounced when he shoots Kenny and confronts Frank (Please cite the page number here). Wolff’s rich characterization is achieved through skillful narration, in revealing the characters’ personality; and through skillful use of suspense and surprise, in revealing the characters’ actions. Wolff’s characters are so ingeniously shaped and presented that the reader instantly connects with  them.   The power struggle in my friendships with men and with women is in parallel with the story. It is inevitable, in a set of friends, to not acquire a certain reputation; be it a bully, a meddler, a cohort, a confidante. Establishing such an image or a reputation is a dilemma, and a power struggle within the self and with others. The power struggle within oneself is illustrated in the internal conflicts Tub and Frank are experiencing. Tub is lying to himself and to people around him about his weight problem. He appears to be on a strict diet, eating only hard-boiled eggs and celery sticks (Please cite the page number here).   He tells friends that his obesity is a glandular problem, and therefore not within his will to control. Towards the end of the story, however, he admits to Frank that he is lying about this aspect of his health (Please cite the page number here). Frank, on the other hand, is lying to himself and to his family about his pursuit of lust. He twists facts about Roxanne Brewer, the fifteen-year-old babysitter with whom he has an illicit affair. He rationalizes that her age is not an issue, and that there is something special about her that goes beyond the sexual aspect (Please cite the page number here). He cannot readily admit to himself and to Tub that the ultimate reason for the affair is his sexual gratification. Wolff’s use of the narrative voice and of character dialogue is powerful because it accurately illustrates the convictions of each character with merely a line or two. Wolff crafts character dialogue in its best form. While reading the story, I sympathized with the character named Tub a great deal. He reminds me of an old saying that goes â€Å"A lie, when oft repeated, is eventually considered a truth.†Ã‚  Ã‚   Like Tub, I sometimes tell lies to mask embarrassing inadequacies. However,  unlike Tub, my strength lies in recognizing early on, when to stop seeing the lie as a truth. The power struggle between the characters and their circumstance is illustrated in the plot of the story. The three friends find themselves in a dilemma when, after Tub shot Kenny, the long drive to the hospital is difficult to make because of the unfamiliar area. (Please cite the page number here).   Dealing with their own personal circumstance did not help either, with Frank and Tub taking their sweet time to stop by a tavern, and confessing each other’s weaknesses (Please cite the page number here), clearly an action out of place especially when a wounded and bleeding Kenny is waiting in a truck, out in the cold. When Frank and Tub finally proceed with the drive to the hospital, they take a wrong turn (Please cite the page number here), implying that Kenny might not even make it alive to the hospital. Wolff’s narrative voice is powerful in the revelation of the character’s actions and in the unfolding of the story. The last two lines of the   story have a strong impact on the reader: â€Å"†¦He was wrong. They had taken a different turn a long way back† (Please cite the page number here). Figuratively, it depicts the characters’ descent into immoral convictions, with Frank indulging Tub’s gluttony and Tub condoning Frank’s illicit relationship (Please cite the page number here). I sometimes find myself in a power struggle with my personal circumstance. It is during such times that the feeling of helplessness is so oppressive. Tobias Wolff is clearly a skillful storyteller. With his ingenious use of fiction elements and his masterful ease with manipulating the narrative voice, he creates a powerful story that readers such as myself can relate with.   At the same time, Wolff shocks and  enlightens his readers by revealing the foibles of human character. He achieves one purpose of great literature: to deliver insight so that the reader will realize the value of his strengths and experiences, and the dangers of his weaknesses. Part B. Writing about Poetry On the poem, â€Å"Birches† by Robert Frost (Please cite the page number here). The image of bent birches suggests the idea of an entity being ravaged by external forces, such as a human being weighed down by age and its burdens. This image evokes a sad, poignant fact about life: when we age and are constantly weighed down by problems we may end up â€Å"bent†, radically changed. Using birches as a symbol is an effective technique used by the poet, Robert Frost. During its reading, the verses depict two different images: the literal and the figurative; and so the reader is given two separate but related ideas to grasp, and the experience is enlightening. The image of a boy swinging on birch trees suggests the idea of childhood innocence. Lines 26–28 clearly depict so: â€Å"Some boy too far from town to learn baseball / Whose only play was what he found himself / Summer or winter, and could play alone† (Please cite the page number here). The poet is right on target in conveying the message that childhood, unlike adulthood, is innocent and simple. It does not include complex problems that adults are faced with. The reading of the verses is a delight, since it brings back memories of the reader’s own childhood. On the poem, â€Å"On Reading Poems to a Senior Class at South High† by D.C. Berry (Please cite the page number here). The image of water filling the room as is a fresh, new way of depicting the gradual invasion of intellectual discourse in a learning environment. As the persona is discussing a poem to his class, he likens the situation to an aquarium, where the students open up like gills and let him in (lines 13-14, page no.__ ). The use of water as a metaphor for verbal discussion is appropriate and masterful. The image of the persona and his students swimming around the room, â€Å"like thirty tails whacking words† (lines 16-17, page no.__ ) conveys the idea of a loud, intense activity such as a lively discussion of poems.   The poet, D.C. Berry, successfully concretizes an abstract idea by his use of this imagery. He succeeds in making the poem a delightful read, and introducing a fresh concept to his readers. This poem is a fresh new way of looking at class discussions or poetry readings. It is remarkable how one poem can introduce a reader into seeing an idea in another point of view. On the poem, â€Å"Dulce Et Decorum Est† by Wilfred Owen (Please cite the page number here). The most memorable and haunting images in this poem can be found in lines 17-24 (Please cite the page number here). The images convey the idea of death in its violent form. White eyes writhing, blood gargling, sores on tongues (lines 19-24, page no.__ ) are perfect images for this poem that depicts the real, raw situation of soldiers at war. The reader gets a sense of distaste for the concept that it is sweet and becoming to die for  one’s country. The images portray a death so violent it is far from being sweet. The author uses imagery and tone to convey his message to his readers. As a result, it is as if the persona himself takes the readers by the hand and shows them the ghastly conditions of war. This poem offers a vivid vicarious experience and the realization that the effect of war is rarely glorious, especially to those who experience it first hand. Part C. Writing about Poetry On the poem, â€Å"The Unknown Citizen† by W.H. Auden (Please cite the page number here). This satire ridicules the life of the unknown citizen, a life so average that it is perfectly in conformation to the expectations of society. Auden’s use of satirical humor is exemplified by his persona supposedly praising the average conformist, but really putting this conformist in ridule. The title alone is satirical; the conformist, ideal citizen is nameless, he is unknown despite the fact that he did everything right in his life. Instead, he is reduced into a code, JS/07 M 378, conveying the message that this person is treated as a statistical datum, and nothing more. Further, the use of certain departments, like the Bureau of Statistics (line 1) or Producers Research (line 18) that affirms the good qualities of the citizen is also satirical. If the unknown citizen led an insignificant life, why does he need to be investigated? This satire is an important, effective comment on the treatment of individuals in modern society. It is very effective in conveying the idea of man’s loss of his personal identity. The examples of irony in this poem include the title itself, â€Å"the unknown citizen.† He is insignificant and yet the state praises his insignificant existence. In addition, although he led a boring, conformed life, the state chose to investigate and examine his affairs. W.H. Auden cleverly used these ironic elements to reveal the absurdity of conformity He reveals this idea to the readers in a humorous satire using irony, so that readers relate to the poem well. This poem effectively communicates the ridiculous concept of uniformity in society. The feeling of outrage, however, is tempered by satirical humor, an interesting delightful mix. For this literary achievement, Auden deserves to be sincerely lauded. The reduction of human beings into mere numbers or statistics shows an insensitive, inhuman society. Uniformity is good for inanimate objects, but not for living, breathing, feeling individuals who are each so unique. I have always viewed conformity as a negative factor in living a healthy life. This poem re-affirmed my strong belief that there is strength in being different. To have people of varied backgrounds, intellect, convictions, and lifestyle in a society is to allow people to be free; free to be themselves, free from the shackles of conformity. However, I have to admit that I have a quality in common with the unknown citizen. I am a conformist up to the point of abiding the law. Our similarity, however, stops there. I rage against absurd uniformity, and for this, unlike the unknown citizen, I know that I am perfectly happy and free.

Salvidor Dali essays

Salvidor Dali essays The People Who Influenced Salvador Dali The extraordinary Salvador Dali has been described as flamboyant, egocentric and enigmatic. Few art critics would deny that this talented and brilliant man is considered today to be one of the most influential artists of the twentieth century. Paintings such as The Persistence of Memory and The Sacrament of the Last Supper reflect various artistic influences. Although considered to be the great surrealist, Dali was influenced by much more than just the Surrealism movement. From the moment of his birth, this unusual individual would draw from himself and his acquaintances some of the most memorable art the world would ever see. Salvador Dali was born on May 11, 1904. He was named after his brother, the first Salvador Dali, who died August 1, 1903, at the age of twenty-one months. Dali himself has claimed that his parents had committed a subconscious crime by giving him the same name as his brother and thereby forcing him to live up to an impossible ideal(qtd. in Gibson 52). He created a tribute to his brother in 1963 when he painted Portrait of My Dead Brother, but remained resentful of being made to live in the shadow of a brother he never met. Throughout his life, Dali would behave like two different people; the hardworking artist locked up in his studio for days at a time in casual clothes and then, the very public avant-garde flashy Dali, with heavily waxed mustache, purple cape, and cane. Dalis obsession with double images also appears in several of his paintings throughout his career, most notably being The Hallucinogenic Salvador. His parents, recognizing his growing artistic abilities, sent him to stay at the Muli de la Torre with the family of Ramon Pitchot. Pitchot was a gifted painter and provided Dali with a large, whitewashed room as a studio. The Pitchot family was considerably talented and left a deep impression on Dali. During his stay with...

A Critique on Fat Acceptance

â€Å"Fat Acceptance: A Basic Primer† by the Vancouver-based author Cynara Geissler is a remonstration against the relentless pursuit of conforming to the socially approved body structure by paining one’s body and soul (3). Appearing in Geez Magazine for the first time this essay germinates new energy in the fat-acceptance movement in 21 st century. The author in this essay heavily protests against food moralizing and idealizing a certain parameter for body dimension. It has been an important issue indeed in the contemporary world, where everything including human body is being precariously rhapsodized under the influence of glamour industry. The author precisely points out the perils of blindly following the ideal of a thin body pleasing to the eyes of society and presents her argument on how this vain pursuit has been affecting the overall physical and mental health of the people. Geissler happens to be a staunch supporter of fat acceptance movement since she herself has experienced the consequences of hazardous dieting due to the plight of mind body shaming caused to her. She describes how people crossing the limit of size and weight dictated by the fashion magazines or movies become victims of society’s pre-conceived notions. They are often termed as â€Å"lazy, undisciplined, incapable and out of control† for no good reason (Geissler 2). Ironically, this adverse pressure comes from the health and diet industry itself who oblivion of the fact that health is to be fit and strong and not conforming to a particular body shape consistently tends to criticize the term fat. This has made the stigma of fat so ingrained in the minds of people that they forget to be tolerant of even normal sized people, â€Å"The West, especially the U.S., operates under gendered ideas of beauty that emphasize thinness as the ideal body type† (Williams 15). Apart from people in the society, this obsession also works in the persons who look at themselves with the eyes of established norms and start condemning their own body. Thus begins the relentless process of dieting and losing of weight without caring about the very idea of health. This compelling pressure comes from the very circle of â€Å"misinformed friends, relatives and health care professionals† who try to fit the non-conforming people into the size boxes which glamour industry has created over the years (Clair et al. 230). Sometimes this vain pursuit results in deadly consequence to the body or if not that leaves the mind in a dispirited state. The inevitable reaction that they develop for their body is self-denigration and an intense revulsion for their own self, which arise out of the rejection they face in their social existence (Bombak 15). This increases an inclination to the falsely advertised solutions claiming to fix one’s body; undoubtedly, this busines s trend capitalizing on the degrading approach to human body is harmful beyond imagination. The fat acceptance movement has, therefore, immense importance in this context since it primarily teaches people to be tolerant of all body sizes and weight as well as rejects all myths that make people suffer in the name of diet. The movement, which includes all successful professionals from different fields, questions about â€Å"efficacy of shame as a motivational tool†; quoting Allison it can be said â€Å"that suffering does not ennoble; it destroys†. It shatters not only the necessity of the compelling act of repentance in food and working habits but denies the efficacy of self-sacrifice to achieve the self-styled success of possessing a ‘perfect’ body (Geissler 2). We can fairly agree to the idea of accepting fat because undoubtedly it is a noble initiative. Fat shaming does not really do anything positive for one’s body rather only builds up hostility and aversion between the obese person and the rest of the society. By the virtue of the move ment, people have relearned to live their life without being worried about the social fixity- â€Å"thinner is better†. It entitles body autonomy to a person and reaffirms the fact that the concept of health is not necessarily affixed to any specific size or weight. In addition, fat acceptance endows a person with all the gratification about oneself and grants access to an enjoyable life. Probably the most important reason for agreeing to Geissler’s idea of fat acceptance is that it formulates acceptance to ‘Health at Every Size’ (Geissler 3). Besides, the movement has always emphasized liberty in the choice of food, personal presentation and physical activity that gives forth the need of that person and mere imitation of body shaming views. While we can agree to the most part of Geissler’s views, there remains some domains in her essay that are likely to catch objections. She takes body autonomy to another level where she has almost denied the necessity of having healthy food at times. According to her experience, having healthy food and working out has been a punishment whereas it cannot be denied that these things are intrinsic to a fit and healthy body. The autonomy of food may catalyze the peril of obesity but surprisingly the author evades such a significant relevant issue in this context. On the other hand, the idea of ‘Health at Every Size’ seems to be very vague in the essay. While it proclaims that, having anorexia cannot be considered as a sign of health and that it is damage for the body, it continues to maintain the idea of an extremely obese person being capable of leading an active life despite the diseased physical condition. In fact, both the extreme poles of weight scale are equally dangerous and the essay has missed to profess this vital medical truth. Apart from this, food addiction often leads to serious medical problems, which the fat acceptant people either consciously or unconsciously do not admit. Thinking that one’s own body is his or her own business and the person can feed it to any extent is entirely a misconception for it really cannot be approved to feed oneself to ill health. This is especially applicable to the rapidly increasing child obesity problem all over the world and the major cause aggravating the problem is the arbitrary food habit among children. It should not be that the fat acceptance movement carries any wrong message to them making them ailing and sedentary. The movement of fat liberation, therefore, must not give opportunity to people to be unapologetic and remain gratified despite their excess weight. Having discussed all the aspects of the essay, both that have been explored and those of the possible approaches that have been missed by the author it can be concluded that approving fat is not the goal but accepting the fat ones as equal is. The author successfully holds up the idea that it is high time the fat people accept their body image in a positive light instead of constantly living in the shadow of a fat-fearing culture. The concept of ‘Health at Every Size’ necessarily involves spontaneous yet conscious eating while regulating weight at the same time. Therefore, while acknowledging the words of Geissler, it can be stated that there is nothing indecent and degrading in a fat body that should be associated with shame and subjected to agonizing diet and excruciating physical exercise. Rather, as the author conveys, fat acceptance is that one revolutionary idea that advocates tolerance, size acceptance, equality for all body types, weight neutrality and most signi ficantly body positivity. Bombak, Andrea E. "The Contribution Of Applied Social Sciences To Obesity Stigma-Related Public Health Approaches". 2014. Clair, Matthew, Caitlin Daniel, and Michà ¨le Lamont. "Destigmatization and health: Cultural constructions and the long-term reduction of stigma."  Social Science & Medicine  165 (2016): 223-232. Geissler, Cynara. "Fat Acceptance: A Basic Primer". Geezmagazine.Org, 2010, https://geezmagazine.org/magazine/article/fat-acceptance-a-basic-primer/. Williams, Apryl A. "Fat People of Color: Emergent Intersectional Discourse Online."  Social Sciences  6.1 (2017): 15.

Cases in international marketing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

Cases in international marketing - Essay Example The Multinationals have gained a huge market and a large number of new consumers, but have not been able to realize the full potential of their investments in China. They have benefited from cheap imports but have not been able to sell their own products for equal value or quantity and have ended in a trade deficit with their Chinese counterparts. However the Chinese too need the world markets as much as the world needs them and in this quid-pro-quo there is still a silver lining and by understanding and segmenting the market properly, lost ground can be recovered. Ever since the Chinese came out of their Walled existence and opened themselves to the International communities, they have become the focus of the whole world. Having the largest population on Earth opened up a marketing opportunity that was beyond comprehension to most conglomerates. Added to that the purchasing power dazzled one and all and Multinationals of all hues went headlong to get a piece of the action. Liberalization of the economy and a bent towards industrialization in a hurry offered huge opportunities for expansion. As of now as many as 320,000 foreign ventures have come up on mainland China, and they are growing by the day. China is the second largest recipient of Foreign Direct Investments that have crossed 400 billion dollars. Investments have come in from all quarters of the world, mainly from the USA. China does offer great marketing opportunities due to its huge population and capabilities. It has abundant cheap labour, a good infrastructure and liberal open market policies that are loved by the Multinationals. There are huge opportunities in manufacturing. Labour intensive industries thrive well due to very high productivity level of the workers and vigilant government machinery that still keeps them in line with their firm labour laws. Liberalization has created more job opportunities and the growing population is easily absorbed in industrial activities. To promote these