Emerging Trends in Marketing

Marketing is everywhere. Formally or informally, people and organizations engage in a vast number of activities that we could call marketing. Indian consumer today is economically far better off than his earlier generations. The coming years will bring full of high-return marketing opportunities. By closely watching the hottest trends, a marketer can make smart choices that let him step ahead of his slower-moving competitors. In these terms, marketers nationwide are setting their plans for future by adopting new ways of marketing. Thus an entrepreneur can use some of these tactics to reach its customers in the coming years.It aims to provide information to solve Managerial dilemmas in all functional areas. This conference will provide an opportunity to enhance knowledge and skills required to solve business problems and meet the challenges of a fast paced decision making environment. Today marketers focus on engaging the customers, offering them value and a customer experience which is innovative and customized. Consumers today are becoming digitally conscious and marketers are leveraging this opportunity to position their brands in a clutter breaking manner and gain competitive edge.A highly competitive environment, knowledgeable consumers and fast pace of technology are keeping business enterprises on their toes. Today management and its concept have become key for survival of any business entity. Good marketing has become an increasingly vital ingredient for business success and marketing profoundly affects our day-today life. It is embedded in everything we do – from clothes we wear to the websites we click on, to the ads we see. Marketing trends look even more digital in 2012. Mobile versions of websites are becoming the smartest trend.This conference aims at exploring diverse facets of emerging marketing trends to offer implemental managerial inputs. Through various academic deliberations, the forum shall be used as a platform to disseminate new kn owledge and leverage benefits from existing marketing know-how. This conference will provide an opportunity to enhance knowledge and skills required to meet the challenges of a fast paced decision making environment. The Conference aims at bringing together the best minds, both in the corporate and academic fields, to one forum and discusses the issues, challenges, strategies and recent trends in area of marketing.

VO2 Max and Aerobic Power

Oxygen is one of the vital elements of life because it acts as a fuel for aerobic respiration, which is the energy source in all organisms (the other fuel being glucose). Without energy from respiration, organisms simply die. As an organism (in this case me, a human) does work, it needs more energy. Thus it will need more fuel and particularly more oxygen since glucose can be stored in the body. The oxygen intake increases as the rate of work done increases, up to a limit known as your VO2 max. VO2 max is the maximum volume of oxygen uptake (hence the V in VO2) anyone can use. It is measured in millilitres per minute per kilogram of body mass (mlO2 min-1 kg-1). People who are more fit have higher VO2 max values and can exercise more intensely than those who are not very fit. Factors Affecting VO2 Max The physical limitations that restrict the rate at which energy can be released aerobically are dependent upon: > The chemical ability of the muscular cellular tissue system to use oxygen in breaking down fuels and, > The combined ability of cardiovascular and pulmonary systems to transport the oxygen to the muscular tissue system.1 The Aim VO2 max can be measured in a variety of ways1. The aim of this experiment is to find out the subjects VO2 max and then covert it to the total aerobic power output. The Method VO2 max can be measured fairly accurately by doing a â€Å"shuttle run† style test (known as â€Å"The Multistage Fitness Test† A.K.A. â€Å"The Beep Test†). Basically, someone has to run a 20 meter track at the starting speed of 8.5 kmh-1 for one minute. Once the person finishes the 20 meter track, they must run back at the same speed, and thus we get an oscillating pattern from one end of the track to the other until the minute is over. The speed is increased by 1 kmh-1 every minute (so after one minute of running at 8.5 kmh-1, the person must run the second minute at 9.5 kmh-1). The same pattern is repeated only this time, because the person (the subject) is running at a higher speed during the same amount of time (one minute), they are going to cover a larger distance and therefore more of the 20 meter laps (in theory anyway). This fact only works in theory because will most of the speeds, the subject can not run a set (integer) number of laps in exactly one minute. It turns out that if the subject runs at 8.5 kmh-1 for one minute, they will cover 7.08 laps. This is impractical (how can you tell that the subject ran 7.08 laps!) and so the number of laps must be rounded up or rounded down to an integer number of laps. Once a set number of integer laps are set, we work out the time taken to run the integer number of laps. (Refer to Columns [5] and [6]). The subject continues running until he or she can no longer keep up the pace. The speed that the subject sustains (i.e. the speed before the speed that the subject stops on) is known as the Maximum Aerobic Speed (MAS) and is measured in kmh-1. Once we have the MAS, we can work out the VO2 max in the following formula: VO2 max = 31 + 3.2 x (MAS – Subject's Age [years]) + 0.15 x MAS x Age The unit for VO2 max is: mlO2 min-1 kg-1. (Note: The above formula is a â€Å"conversion formula developed by researchers, to give an accurate measure of VO2 max†. See Activity Sheet 26) After calculating the VO2 max, we can convert it to maximum aerobic power output. Because the subject will be working with a high energy output, running requires a lot of energy; the only way to keep going is by aerobic respiration. Anaerobic respiration doesn't provide the high amounts of energy that are needed in such exercises, especially for longer periods of time e.g. ten minutes. For every litre of oxygen consumed, the subject's muscles use 20kJ of energy. The total amount of oxygen consumed in a minute is the VO2 max multiplied by the body mass of the subject. This gives us the total oxygen intake of the subject in ml per minute (mlO2 min-1), since VO2 max is millilitres of oxygen per kilogram of body mass per minute. Once we have the total oxygen intake in mlO2 min-1, we multiply it by 20 (if 1 litre gives 20,000 J, then 1 millilitre will give 20 J) to get the total amount of energy used (i.e. power) in Joules per minute, (J min-1). Power (J min-1) = VO2 max (mlO2 min-1 kg-1) x Body Mass (kg) x 20 J mlO2-1 Power (W, Js-1) = Power (J min-1) à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ 60 s min-1 Conventionally, the power output is measured in Watts per kilogram of body mass, W kg-1 (See Table 3 on Pg 37 of the text book, Salters Horners Advanced Physics), therefore we would need to divide the total power by the subject's mass. However the aim of the experiment is to find out the total aerobic power output. (At least that is what the Activity Sheet 26 says, under the last bullet point in the Analysis section) This means that there is no need to divide the total power output by the subject's mass. We just leave the total power output in Watts. (For Prepared Formulas and An Interactive VO2 max calculator, See File Formula Input Form.xls) Interestingly, the test given on the website1 for calculating VO2 max (look for The Multi-Stage Fitness Test) differs in some ways from the one suggested in Activity Sheet 26. One of the differences is the increase of the speed is 0.5 kmh-1 every minute, not 1 kmh-1. Also, if the subject doesn't complete a whole minute at the speed of 15.5 kmh-1, for example if the subject managed to complete 3 out of the 13 laps, then the subject would have a different (lower) VO2 max than if 10 laps were completed. Later on, I will discuss this issue and other differences in more detail (Under the Evaluation). The Table (Table 1) If you refer to Table 1 (File Table 1.xls) you will see all of the information needed and all of the calculations have been done beforehand. I compiled this table using Microsoft Excel(r). Below is a brief explanation of the table. Column [1] The speed of the subject, in kmh-1. Column [2] The speed of the subject given in ms-1. To convert speed from kmh-1 to ms-1, we multiply by 1,000 (converting km to m) and divide by 3600 (à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½[60 x 60] is converting hours to seconds). Simplified, converting kmh-1 to ms-1 we multiply by 10/36. Therefore: Column [2] = Column [1] x 10/36 Column [3] The time taken to complete one lap can be worked out by the below formula Velocity (ms-1)= Distance (m) à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ Time (s), if we re-arrange the formula to make time the subject we get: Time (s) = Distance (m) à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ Velocity (ms-1). The distance is of one lap is 20 m and the velocity has been calculated in Column [2]. Column [3] is just: Column [3] = 20m à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ Column [2]. Column [4] This is the number of laps made in one minute (60 seconds). If I know that it takes 8.47 s to run one lap, I can calculate the total number of laps made in 60 seconds be dividing 60 seconds by the time taken to run one lap. So: ? of Laps in 60 seconds = 60 seconds à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ Time Taken to Run One Lap Column [4] = 60 s à ¯Ã‚ ¿Ã‚ ½ Column [3] Column [5] This is just Column [4] rounded up or down to give us an integer number of laps. It means I don't have to deal with 7.08 laps and suchlike. Column [6] This is the time taken to run the integer number of laps. We calculate this by multiplying the time taken to run one lap (Column [3]) by the integer number of laps (Column [5]). Time to Run Integer ? of Laps = Time to Run One Lap x Integer ? of Laps Column [6] = Column [3] x Column [5] Column [7] Since we know that each lap is 20 meters and we know how many integer laps the subject will run, we can find out the total distance covered during a specific speed by multiplying 20 meters by the integer number of laps. Total Distance Covered During a Speed = 20 m x Integer ? of Laps Column [7] = 20 m x Column [5] Column [8] Column [8] is the cumulative distance ran. Here, the distances are added up (accumulated) so that we know the total distance ran through the whole activity. The cumulative distance is the total of the previous distances (previous speeds) plus the distance of the current speed. Column [9] Column [9] is the cumulative time taken for the activity. It is in seconds and works in pretty much way as Column [8], i.e. the times of the previous runs are added to the current run to give the total cumulative time. Column [10] This is the cumulative time presented in a more familiar and user friendly format, the minute : second style. This is just here to give a sense of how long 840 seconds are. The Tape (or The Slideshow) In order to make the subject run at the times listed on the Table, I will need to prepare a tape or some sort of timing device. After attempting to make a tape and failing miserably, I decided to use Microsoft PowerPoint(r) instead (making the tape proved to be a long winded, boring and fruitless exercise), because, with PowerPoint, I can set time intervals between slide transitions and add sounds on every slide transition, making it a visual as well as an aural aid and I can have a lot more fun making it! (i.e. I can have lots of â€Å"interesting† and slightly odd sounds on the slide show) I also realised that it would be more helpful (to the subject) if I had a sound in the middle of each lap and to have a marker on the middle of the lap (10 meters). In case the subject is going too slowly and doesn't reach the middle marker when the middle bleep sounds, they can speed up to reach the end of the lap in time. However there is a slight disadvantage with using PowerPoint because the transition periods can only be set to 0.1 of a second (1 d.p.) and the lap times are given to 0.01 of a second (2 d.p.) and some of the half laps are to 0.001 of a second (3 d.p.). Therefore I have had to alter the timing of the transitions slightly so that there isn't a cumulative error. For example, during the first speed (8.5 kmh-1), it takes 4.235 seconds to complete half a lap, but I can only have 4.2 and 4.3 as time intervals in PowerPoint, therefore I had to find a pattern that consisted of 4.2 and 4.3 time intervals to fit the 4.235 time interval as well as possible. This technique took quite some time, however, using Excel helped greatly. With Excel, I could input different patterns (using 4.2 and 4.3 seconds) and view the sum automatically. If it wasn't right (i.e. if the total time wasn't near the time in Column [6] in Table 1), I simply changed the pattern until I got the closest time. Also I decided that there wasn't a need to go beyond 13.5 kmh-1 because when we did a warm up to the test (a kind of preliminary), none of the subjects managed to run over a thousand meters. In order for any of the subjects to complete the 13.5 kmh-1 speed, they would need to run at least 1100 meters, therefore there was no point in extending the presentation beyond that speed. (See Files Timing.xls for the pattern generating, and Timing Presentation.ppt, listen out for a treat during the last few slides) The Safety (Issues) It is always important to consider safety in any situation, and it is especially important in this type of activity where there is a fairly high risk of an accident and or an injury occurring. Below is a set of guidelines that the subject and others present during the activity should follow. The subject should begin with a five to ten minute warm-up period, before the test is started. It should consist of stretches and short runs where the subject should rapidly accelerate and then decelerate. This helps the subject to run better in the test and also helps avoiding any muscle cramps during the test. In the (relatively) unlikely event of the subject falling, or hurting him/herself in any other way, the subject should stop running immediately. Also if the subject feels any pain or dizziness, they should stop. The subject should not continue with the test, even if they seem or appear to have recovered. The Results The results are in the Result Sheet (unsurprisingly). The results were gathered from the experiment, which was conducted with ten subjects, including myself. They are in order of VO2 max. (The Results Table can be found in Results.xls) The Evaluation After completing the experiment, I worked out the aerobic power of the subjects very easily, with the help of Excel. I personally found the experiment enjoyable and it my got the heart pumping! (A somewhat rarity in physics, consider electricity†¦ ok, maybe pacemakers, and the way they electrically shock people who have had heart attacks with two funny looking handle things, not much else though). However, there were many problems I encountered while conducting the experiment. To begin with, we couldn't find a 20 meter track anywhere in our school, considering the fact that there had to be a socket close by since my timing mechanism uses a computer (there are three sports halls in the school, but they were all busy). Therefore, I had to settle for a smaller 10 meter track. The fact that I had midpoint bleeps in the timing mechanism meant that each bleep (midpoint and full-length bleeps) was a signal for the subjects to reach the end of the 10 meter track. This meant the timing was not affected, however the experiment could have been affected greatly. (See the Miscellaneous Calculations section) Secondly, in the Activity Sheet, it says, â€Å"For every litre of oxygen consumed, 20kJ of energy are transferred to the subject's muscles†. However it fails to mention whether or not some of that energy is lost as heat and other ways of energy loss (e.g. fiction from the ground, the energy needed to stop at the end of every lap and even the energy needed to move the muscles themselves, i.e. contracting and relaxing of muscles). There are no suggestions or hints on how much of the energy is used to propel the subject. Although this can be calculated in the kinetic energy equation, EK = 1/2mv2, and the power equation P = ?E/?t . However, I suspect that these energy fluctuations are taken into account via the VO2 max formula. But even the formula itself isn't very accurate in my opinion. As I mentioned earlier, if two subjects managed to sustain the same MAS (Maximum Aerobic Speed) but one of the subjects ran more laps, then logically that subject has a higher VO2 max. This logicality is not, in any way, included in the formula. On the website (See Note 1 of Reference) the tables show that if one of the subjects ran more laps during the same speed, that subject would have a higher VO2 max that if he/she managed to run a smaller number of laps. Therefore, I do not believe that the formula for calculating VO2 max on the Activity Sheet 26 gives a correct quantitative value of the subject's VO2 max. Although the experiment has shown that some of the subjects are fitter that others (i.e. the experiment is correct qualitatively), it did not produce reliable figures with regard to the VO2 max of the subject. On the first of the Activity Sheets, Figure A26.2 shows a line graph of VO2 max for boys and girls at different ages. According to the graph, 16-year-old boys should have a VO2 max of 52-53 mlO2 min-1 kg-1. Ops! (My VO2 max is nowhere near that, or at least the formula tells me that it is nowhere near that). It shows that I am not as healthy as I should be, considering that my mass is 85 kg! Unlike Robert, who is a very healthy person and managed to run at a high enough speed to get a high VO2 max. (Although I should stress again my doubt about the numbers given by the formula) The Miscellaneous Calculations A velocity-time curve of the subject's motion. Note the area under both of the curves should be equal since the same distance, 10 meters, is travelled. The distance is the speed multiplied by the time i.e. the area under the graph. A As mentioned earlier, the energy needed to propel a subject can be calculated via the kinetic energy equation. EK = 1/2mv2 and P = ?E/?t My mass is 85 kg. If I ran one lap at 8.5 kmh-1 (which is 2.36 ms-1, Refer to Table 1), the energy needed is: EK = 1/2mv2 so, EK = 1/2 x 85kg x (2.36ms-1)2 EK = 236.7 J If the above amount of energy were delivered by my muscles in one lap (10 meters, since that was the length each subject had to run) at 8.5 kmh-1, it would have taken 8.47/2 seconds (only half a lap, 10 meters). So: P = ?E/?t P = 236.7/4.235 P = 55.9 Js-1, W However, if I ran 20 meters, then the power is: P = 236.7/8.47 P = 27.9 Js-1, W The amount of energy accumulated while running a lap is then dissipated towards the end (of each lap) as the subject must come to rest i.e. the velocity is zero. Notice also that because the subject has to accelerate at the beginning of every lap, some extra energy is needed for that acceleration. The subject must accelerate every 10 meters because he/she has stop and then run in the opposite direction. As the lap distance decreases, the power transfer increases. This shortage (of lap distance) will also cause the subject to accelerate and decelerate more often. Therefore, the smaller the lap distance, the larger the error could be (due to the fact that some of the energy is used up in accelerating). Using a 10 meter track instead of a 20 meter track could have affected the results because this meant more energy used in accelerating. It is therefore, justifiable to say that had the track been longer (i.e. 20 meters), myself and all of the other subjects could have been able to sustain a higher speed instead of the one that was achieved.

Market Reaction Paper

On the busy streets of the Upper West side lies a two floor petit market named Citarella. Located on 75th street and Broadway, this amazing gourmet market allows buyers to have a great quality of food even though it may cost a little more money. Citarella welcomes guest into a neat and comfortable environment where customers and purchasers can shop for items in a relaxed, well-organized place. All of the food appears fresh and high quality. As a first timer everything in the market seemed more upscale and elegant, which immediately made me realize this market was a great vendor.Citarella creates an atmosphere that makes buyers want to enjoy their food shopping at this market. Upon reaching 75th Street, I noticed the big orange â€Å"Citarella† sign on the corner. The window display had actual meat which already showed me how high quality and value their food was. It seemed very differently than my local markets around my neighborhood. I opened the door and the market was full of people . This must be a sign of a great market. The place was made of bricks, and all the walls were covered in different food displays of each individual food section.The fresh smell of vegetables an area of cooked food cultivated my nose right away. I started my analysis in the vegetables and fresh pasta section. They had various selection from ravioli, tortellini and many others. Across from me, I saw the lettuce at a price range of $1. 89 lbs. This was awkward for me seeing lettuce being purchased by its weight. I also noticed Citarella promotes their new product in every section using big yellow tags stating the product name, price and brand.That idea is great if you are an experimental buyer or chef that like to try new things in the kitchen. Afterwards, I worked my way to the seafood section and noticed all the different types of seafood in stock. I looked down and seen groups of live lobsters in three big tanks. For a small market, there was every product any person would need, from fat-free to organic products. Citarella carries various brands, including their own brand too. The meat department and fruit section were located on the first floor as well.All the meat looked healthy and all the fruits looked nice and ripped. As a gourmet market every section was well organized and established. The products seemed to be handled with best care to provide the best service possible. While looking around the market, a customer who spotted me writing on my pad asked, â€Å" If I was a critic? † I politely responded â€Å"No† then i asked. â€Å" What makes you shop at Citarella? † he replied â€Å"The quality of the food†. The second floor was the dairy, coffee section, and the bakery.I headed straight towards the bakery. I headed straight towards the bakery. I’m addicted to sweets and all the pastries available looked so good and well polished. I ordered myself a small individual size berries tart with vanilla Creme at a p rice of $1. 25. The pastry was delicious and for a small market, Citarella obtains a great bakery. Most markets won’t provide this extra selection, which adds extra advantages to this market. On my right I noticed a big coffee section. There were many coffee beans from various places.Having someone brew your coffee in person immediately appealed as as a great customer service to me. This market was just so welcoming. The experience in the market was great. I loved every aspect of it and entering Citarella open my mind to a different view of a market. I learned and seen so many different things I never realized while food shopping. The customer service was great and the atmosphere was full of tranquility. For a small gourmet market Citarella provides high quality value food at a price range that may be expensive to many but supply you with the best products.

Fleabane Now a National Challenge Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Fleabane Now a National Challenge - Essay Example Thus, according to the GRDC funded research, it has been seen that the integrated weed management (IWM) is key to reduce the impact of the weed on the crops. Spraying the weed with herbicides while it is still young is another effective approach that can be taken. Alternatively, there is need to control the weed before it sets the seeds. This entails that the growers should strive to tackle the fleabane while it is still young. They should use the cultivators to bury the weed before it matures since it would become resistant with age. There are quite a number of benefits that can be derived from this action. For instance, the growers will not experience the recurrence of the problematic weed and this can also help to improve the yield. Persuasion channels like television can be used to appeal to the growers to follow the steps suggested above. On the other hand, Silverleaf whitefly (SLW) remains a potentially serious pest of coastal soya beans in the northern region. The main problem is that it quickly develops rapid pesticide resistance usually in a single season. It is also adaptive to high temperatures. The SLW cannot be managed by the use of pesticides alone and growers are not advised to use these since they kill the SLW parasites and predators allowing the pest to multiply unchallenged. Integrated pest management (IPM) is essential in order to combat this problem. There is the need for the growers to understand the basic tenets of this strategy as well as the measures that characterize it. The IPM strategy entails that the growers should ensure that there are natural predators in the crop that can suppress the pest’s population. The growers should try to maintain a natural balance in the ecosystem where the predators will feed on the SLW and this helps to ensure that the SLW does not multiply in numbers. The benefits that can be achieved by the growers of beans is that their crop will not be destroyed by the pests.  

Species Native Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Species Native - Research Paper Example An adult green sea turtle weighs over 500 pounds. Like all other turtle species, green sea turtles possess a hard structure called shell, whose function is to provide protection to the turtle from predators. The part of the shell that is on the dorsal (back) side is known as the carapace (Green Sea Turtles, n.d.). This portion is heart shaped, and is as long as 5 feet. It is covered with large scales which are called scutes. The ventral part of the shell that covers the belly is known as the plastron. The dorsal and ventral parts are connected to each other at the sides through hard-shelled plates which are known as lateral bridges. The connection between the carapace and plastron breaks at the openings for the head, tail and limbs. The difference between green sea turtles, land turtles and tortoises is that green sea turtles are not able to retract their small heads into the shell for extra protection. The shells of green sea turtles are very light weight and are more developed as c ompared to shells of land turtles. The limbs seem like flippers that help them swim long distances in less time, making them refined swimmers. Adult turtles are herbivorous in nature. This characteristic makes them harmless to other animals living under water with them like fish. They hold bacteria in their guts, and depend on them for digestion of plant food. This is the case with adult turtles only. Young turtles are carnivorous. They feed on jellyfish and other little invertebrates. The dorsal surface of the shell or the carapace is dark brown in color but it gets covered with patches of algae on which fish feeds. The exact lifespan of green sea turtles is still unknown. They grow very slowly. The growth is so slow that they take 10 to 50 years to be able to become sexually mature to reproduce (Bredeson, 2007). The average age of maturity is 25 years. Due to this long lifespan and period of maturity, green sea turtles take too many years to recover from a significant population

Video Analysis on Love the Way You Lie Article Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Video Analysis on Love the Way You Lie - Article Example It also strongly implies the involvement of domestic violence in this relationship. Performed by hip-hop rapper Eminem and RnB singer Rihanna, both the song and its music video shows the perspectives of both parties. In both angles, it is clear that the two are experiencing a rough time. The relationship clearly shows how two very different people who are absolutely wrong for each other decide to stay together. This brings about a downward spiral in their relationship and just carries on to add fuel to the fire, as things spiral uncontrollably. Eminem and Rihanna, representing the voice of the couple in the relationship, is evidently having an extremely outrageous and difficult time in trying to fix a relationship that was never meant to bring any good. Both Rihanna and Eminem are currently two of the highest chart-topping artists and performers of the previous two decades. They are among the most influential people in pop culture that continues to bear a great impact on teenagers and young adults worldwide and inadvertently, both have played very public roles on the opposite ends of their own personal violent relationships. Eminem, a renowned rapper, emerged to prominence and fame in the later year of the nineties with a succession of controversial and provocative albums, some wherein he has openly expressed and suggested through rap the dark emotions and sentiments of murdering his ex-wife. On the other hand, Rihanna originally comes from Barbados has just recently endured a very public attack by her ex-boyfriend and RnB singer Chris Brown.  Ã‚  

Dualism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Dualism - Essay Example It must be noted that dualist principles attribute almost equal powers to the opposing forces, whose balance is critical for the existence of the world. Even man, when considered as a microcosm can be considered under the principles of Dualism. Often philosophers have propounded theories that have maintained that man is a unique self, who is governed by a higher self. Descartes also proposed the concept of dualism in his philosophy. He has explained his concept of dualism in detail so that it makes sense to his readers who may be inclined to approach philosophy with a critical and analytical mind. Descartes acknowledges the existence of a spiritual reality, which he calls God, that exists beyond the plane of the human mind and intelligence. He also stresses that the mind, body, and intelligence and entities that are distinct from the supreme reality, which is the cause of the universe. Hence, he says that God and the human mind are different entities and that the entity called God is the causative reason for the mind, which is again controlled by the entity called God. Descartes developed his idea of dualism in similar lines to how Aristotle developed his views on philosophy. Descartes questioned his very senses and existence and tried to derive solutions from the doubts that arose in his mind. This sequence of questioning and answering helped him to derive his philosophy, which was developed on the basis of sequential negation and analysis. Descartes proceeds in this manner to derive the logic that his mind and body are two different substances. He finds that it is possible for him to doubt the existence of his body, without doubting his own existence. Hence, he must be a mind distinct from a body. Expanding on the existence of the body and the substances that make it up, he argues that each substance is similar to his body. They extend into space, are divisible, and obey

A Culture of Poverty Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

A Culture of Poverty - Term Paper Example It seems Americans enjoy utilizing, or perhaps taking advantage of, low-wage laborers. Communities of middle- and upper-class American citizens where use of service labor is popular, even mandatory to sustain current living conditions, conveyed a high level of discrimination for the very group of individuals that allow them to maintain their lifestyle. Kristen H. Maher (p. 781-806) reported the responses of several interviews conducted with residents and laborers in an upscale community in Irvine, California. The community population was made up of 90 percent Caucasian and 10 percent Asian homeowners in the Ridgewood community of South County in Irvine. Statements made by homeowners were borderline appalling when they described their feelings about Latino service employees—even those who were actual residents due to a live-in type of a situation—utilizing facilities such as the neighborhood pool and park intended for use by residents. The overall sentiment was the homeo wners only felt comfortable when these workers were using the facilities with the homeowners’ children present. For example, if a nanny was swimming with the children he or she cared for, it was acceptable for the nanny to be at the pool. Alone, it was â€Å"taboo† for the nanny to use the facility alone (Maher). While the regulations of the community were not written, it seems a posting was unnecessary. Their sentiments were felt by the Latinos; those workers who were interviewed shared their uneasiness about using the facilities, even when the children were present, much less going about the neighborhood on their own or with their own families. A couple of the community members said they did not have a problem with their nanny utilizing the facilities, but would probably have concern for anyone the employee would bring into the neighborhood (i.e. family members, friends, etc.) that may pose a potential threat to the safety of the community (Maher). Furthermore, the r esidents of Ridgewood voiced a strong desire to have a gate installed around the property to keep out the â€Å"riff-raff† that they perceive to be nearing their community from outlying areas such as Santa Ana, California, and even North County, where most of the laborers resided (Maher). The opinion of the laborers was that they were â€Å"good,† but it is the unknown that these individuals fear. Since the nanny is working, he or she is considered to be a â€Å"good guy,† and all others may or may not want to cause problems for the community. The residents wish to remain unscathed from the perceived dangers that lurk closer and closer to Irvine—specifically Ridgewood (Maher). However, what the residents of Ridgewood and many others, who oppose immigration, are failing to recognize is the fact that due to their low wages, these Latinos are unable to lift themselves above the poverty line. They are forced to move closer to their places of employment (i.e. Ridgewood, and other predominantly Caucasian neighborhoods), in order to cut as much cost associated with commuting as possible so what little of their income is left can be used to support their families. Alejandra Marchevsky and Jeanne Theoharis authored a book entitled Not Working: Latina Immigrants, Low-Wage Jobs, and the Failure of Welfare Reform. In the book, they explore the life of a single, Latin-American woman, Myrna Cardenas, who is struggling to make ends meet in order to provide for her three children. Myrna is no different from the service laborers discussed by Maher. She is working two

Historical reference to U.S. counter-terrorism practices, and how Essay

Historical reference to U.S. counter-terrorism practices, and how these practices have been developed - Essay Example Two sections, besides the introductory one, deal with key issues in crafting the US counterterrorism strategies, while the third section lays a particular emphasis on the current approach to countering acts of terror and terrorist networks. Thus, the final section discusses the strengths and weaknesses of the present-day US counterterrorism policy and draws a conclusion about its effectiveness. Introduction As a general rule, terrorism is unsusceptible to exact definition insofar as certain interpretations could justify violence, especially actions conducted under the banner of politics, which is otherwise unacceptable (White, 2012). Thus, as White (2012) states, terrorism denotes different things to different people, being called either revolutionary war or crime in one or another period of history. On the other hand, according to White (2012), terrorism itself, along with the counter-terrorist responses, are practices that have always been in transition; while Ambassador Michael Sh eehan (retd) points out that terrorism is both provoked and sustained by technological progress, development and, perhaps most notably, globalization (Alexander & Kraft, 2008). In that regard, the smaller the world has become, the more capable terrorists would appear – whether in terms of communication, travel, funding, or weaponry (Alexander & Kraft, 2008). The advent of global-oriented terrorism in the 1990s, being represented first and foremost by Islamic Jihad- and al-Qaeda-led activities worldwide, appears a powerful argument in favor of that statement (Anderson and Sloan, 2009). In his foreword to Evolution of US Counterterrorism Policy, Ambassador Sheehan (retd) concluded that the US counterterrorism policies generally present a perspective on the evolution of terrorism itself (Alexander & Kraft, 2008). Being largely preoccupied with traditional interstate conflict and counterinsurgency, the US national security establishment first recognized the terrorist threat in th e early 1970s; while the increasing frequency, considerably extended reach and magnified lethality of terrorist attacks in the 1980s and 1990s up to the post 9/11 era, firmly shifted the focus of attention on terrorism in order to become US national security policy’s top priority (Sheehan in Alexander & Kraft, 2008). Correspondingly, the US counter-terrorist responses and tactics reflected the growing complexity of terrorist threat worldwide, including weapons of mass destruction, cyber-terrorism, etc. (Lia, 2003). The Times of Blissful Ignorance There have been numerous acts of terrorism across the world in modern times, but the United States became a prime terrorist target as late as the 1980s; until then, the term terrorism had been applied to various groups, including revolutionaries, anarchists, nationalists and violent left-wing activists, who mainly targeted European citizens and governments (White, 2012). As the meaning of terrorism fluctuated over time, the forms of terrorist activity also fluctuated between group violence, rioting and guerilla warfare (White, 2012). In turn, the tactics employed by terrorist organizations varied from kidnapping to assassinations and bombings, including suicide ones. The attack on the

A Collegiate Dilemma Essay Example for Free

A Collegiate Dilemma Essay Favoritism is the tendency of an individual to discriminate against another person or a group of persons. It happens when an individual favors another over others. In most cases, it occurs as a result of an individuals value judgment and thus it is an attitude( http://dictionary. die. net/favoritism ). For instance, in many learning institutions especially those dealing with higher education favoritism occurs when professors favor some students simply because they want to have intimate relationship with them. Such inclination or or disposition to favor some students or even treat others unfairly on the basis of prejudice motivated by the lust to have sexually exploitative relationship confirms the presence of favoritism in universities and colleges. College professors are supposed to display both ethical and scholarly standards in the best way possible. These standards are guided by ethical principles which include the following. Professors should not engage in any form of dual relationships with their students. They should not sexually harass the students. According to American Association of University Press (AAUP, 1987) professors should provide a free learning environment to their students and respect them. They should serve as role models of a scholar and also a thinker. They must not harm the people they work with either physically or emotionally ( http://www. google. com/search? num=100hl=ensafe=offq=Keith-Spiegel+et+al. %2C+2002+on+consequences+of+favoritismbtnG=Search). They should treat every person equally. They should also award grades in a transparent manner and provide a ream for grades appeal to avoid what can be referred to as Sexually Transmitted Grades (STGs). Dignity should guide their relationship with those they work with. Violation of any of these principles as a result of favoritism is unethical. Romance between professors and students will encourage favoritism and thus it is unethical. Romance between professors and students results to severe negative consequences. Many students are either physically or emotionally harmed in the process. Students concerned acquire STGs which are unfairly acquired demoralizing the other students. The professor and the student involved devote a lot of time in the relationship and produce â€Å"half – baked† professionals who cannot execute their roles properly in the future. It is therefore the professors responsibility to strictly observe the limits in their relationship with the students while defining both their roles together with their respective behavior even when out of the academic setting (http://www. collegevalues. org/articles. cfm? id=1416a=1). Refferences Definition: favoritism retrieved from http://dictionary. die. net/favoritism on 14th april, 2008 A Collegiate Dilemma: The Lack of Formal Training in Ethics for Professors retrieved from http://www. collegevalues. org/articles. cfm? id=1416a=1 on14th April, 2008 Keith-Spiegel et al. , 2002 retrieved from http://www. google. com/search? num=100hl=ensafe=offq=Keith-Spiegel+et+al. %2C+2002+on+consequences+of+favoritismbtnG=Search on 14th April, 2008. De Russy 2003 on consequences of favoritism retrieved from http://www. collegevalues. org/articles. cfm? id=1416a=1 on 14th April, 2008 Rupert and Holmes on favoritism retrieved from http://www. collegevalues. org/articles. cfm? id=1416a=1 on 14th April, 2008

Comparison and Analysis of Museum Architecture

Comparison and Analysis of Museum Architecture In the late 1790s, several influencial members of the Prussian government requested that a museum was to be built to house the royal collection that would constitute a valuable contribution to the states cultural mission. Due to struggle with Napoleon and Prussias defeat in 1806 with victory in 1813 at Leipzig, the project was delayed until 1822, when Architect Karl Friedrich Schinkel took on the project. The Altes Museum was built between 1823 and 1830. It is one of the most important works in the architecture of Classicism. It has a lucidly ordered exterior and an interior structure of great precision after the Ancient Greek style, Schinkel pursued Humboldts idea of the museum as an educational institution open to the public. The Altes museum was originally built to house all of Berlins art collections, it has accommodated the Collection of Classical Antiquities since 1904. Between 1943 and 1945 the building was severely damaged by fire. Reconstruction work continued up until 1966. Since 1998 the Collection of Classical Antiquities has displayed its Greek collection, including the treasury on the ground floor of the Altes Museum. The Egyptian Museum has, since August 2005, shown its collection on the upper floor where it will remain until it moves to the Neues Museum in 2009. Karl Friedrich Schinkel was associated with leading poets, philosophers, and statesmen of his day. Some of their discussions involved aesthetics and the purpose of art, which did more than influence him passively. He sought to apply such theories to his architectural work. The Altes Museum was intended to be simply an extension of the Royal Academy, but Schinkel insisted he wanted it to be an autonomous building sited at the northern end of the Lustgarten, opposite the palace. In order for this to occur, because of the buildings intended size, a canal had to be filled in and a number of smaller buildings were removed to make way for the museum.It has been sited to face the palace and inserting it between the River Spree and a number of smaller buildings allowed him to accommodate the projects not so generous budget. Since only the museums facade needed ornamentation worthy of such an eminent neighbor as the palace, the Konigliches Schloss. The museum was located on axis with the palace and was adjacent to the cathedral and arsenal, giving it a central place among these three pillars of the Prussian state. It was to become a magnificent icon of its time. The museums relations with the state only went so far, with the facade, significantly, bore an inscription acknowledging the kings leading cultural role, although the museum was in no sense an extension of the court or an expression of royal power. The facade may have bore the kings name, but the buildings interior was to belong to art and its public. The Alter Museum appears a monumental masterpiece on the exterior, but not much can be said for its interior. It is preserved by recognising the courts role in the cultural life of Prussian society, while simultaneously disallowing this acknowledgement of power from affecting the museums internal logic. The building presents us with one face to the outside, while presenting another on the inside, reminiscent to the Janus symbol of one head with two faces, a double-edged sword, or the opposite sides of a coin. Schinkels museum attempts to suggest how art is connected to the world socially, culturally, and morally,within the context of the three pillars of Prussian society, as symbolised by the palace, arsenal, and cathedral. In the Altes Museum, it is impossible to ignore the buildings use of architectural forms traditionally reserved for religious buildings.The ground floors center is called the rotunda, which is a direct reference to the Pantheon as well as the Museo Pio Clementino. Art history and Aesthetics developed simultaneously over the course of the 18th century. These formed the hierarchy for the Altes Museum. The ground floor housed art from the ancient world, and the second floor contained paintings by period and style.Classical art was not arranged in any particular order, but was presented as one entity, it was not considered as another period, although they were carefully arranged according to the contemporary precepts of art history. This distinction between classical and postclassical, assumes that classical art is timeless, ideal and foundational. The monumental order of the eighteen fluted ionic columns, the wide stretch of the atrium, and the rotunda is an explicit reference to the pantheon in Rome, and finally the grand staircase which are all architectural elements where up to this point, were reserved for stately buildings. The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, New York (1956-59) Frank Lloyd Wright has described the design of this building in a number of letters to its founder, Solomon R. Guggenheim, and in several statements made during the time of its design and construction. Both Wright and Guggenheim died before they could see the museum completed. This particular museum is in a class of its own. Featured in a number of famous Hollywood films for its famous levels of circulation in a spiral form. This particular distinctive building was Frank Lloyd Wrights last major work. From the street, the building looks approximately like a white ribbon curled into a cylindrical stack, it is slightly wider at the top than the bottom. Its appearance is in sharp contrast to the more typically boxy Manhattan buildings that surround it. Internally, the viewing gallery forms a gentle helical spiral from the main level up to the top of the building. Paintings are displayed along the walls of the spiral and also in exhibition space found at annex levels along the way.This museum can be described as clean beautiful surfaces throughout the building, all beautifully proportioned to human scale. These surfaces are all lighted from above with natural daylight beaming down into the main foyer. A feature that many historic museums lacked in previous times and failed to accomplish so well. This Museum seems to have an atmosphere of harmonious simplicity where human proportions are maintained in relation to the picture or painting on show. There is a fluid quiet created by the buildings interior where the new painting will be seen for itself under its favourable conditions, not conflicting with the buildings interior making it the centre piece of attention. The paintings are all situated in perfectly air conditioned chambers, essential to the preservation of these great pieces of art and sculptures. The walls of the Solomon R Guggenheim Museum and spaces, inside and outside, are one in substance and effect. The walls slant gently outward forming a giant spiral for a well defined purpose. One can view this as a new unity between beholder, painting and architecture. The pictures are inclined, faced slightly upward to the viewer and to the light in accord with the upward sweep of the spiral, the paintings themselves are emphasised as features in themselves and are not hung square but gracefully yield to movement as set up by these slightly curving massive walls. In a great upward sweep of movement the picture is seen framed as a feature of architecture. The flat plane of the picture detached by the curve of the wall is presented to view much as a jewel set as a signet ring. Precious as itself, unique in its identity. Slightly tilted curving away of the walls against which the pictures are placed not only presents no difficulty but facilitates viewing, the wide curvature of the main walls is a positive asset to the painting. The gentle upward, or downward, sweep of the main spiral-ramp itself serves to make visitors more comfortable by their very descent along the spiral, viewing the various exhibits. The elevator is doing the lifting, the visitor the drifting from alcove to alcove. The diameter of the spiral increases as it ascends so that the depth of the chambers is as a result greater at the upper levels. The partitions between the chambers act as bearing walls. Criticism of the building has focused on the idea or presumption that it overshadows the artworks displayed within, and the apparent difficulty to properly hang paintings in the shallow windowless exhibition niches that surround the central spiral. Despite the rotunda generously being lit by the large skylight, the niches are heavily shadowed by the walkway itself, leaving the art to be lit largely by artificial lighting. The walls of these niches are neither vertical nor flat with most being gently concave, meaning that canvasses are being mounted proud of the walls surface. Limited space within the niches mean that sculptures are generally relegated to plinths amid the main spiral walkway itself. Prior to the Museums Grand Opening, twenty-one artists, including Willem de Kooning and Robert Motherwell, signed a letter protesting the display of their work in such a space. Although there was criticism towards Frank Lloyd Wrights design of the Museum, it was deemed controversial. There were also fans of his design who admired and cherised the museum for what it was. Wrights great swansong, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum of New York, is a gift of pure architecture or rather of sculpture. It is a continuous spatial helix, a circular ramp that expands as it coils vertiginously around an unobstructed well of space capped by a flat-ribbed glass dome. A seamless construct, the building evoked for Wright, the quiet unbroken wave. Spiro Kostof. A History of Architecture, Settings and Rituals. New York: Oxford University Press, 1985. p740. Entering into the spirit of this interior, you will discover the best possible atmosphere in which to show fine paintings or listen to music. It is this atmosphere that seems to me most lacking in our art galleries, museums, music halls and theaters. Frank Lloyd Wright. Frank Lloyd Wright, The Architectural Forum, January, 1948, Vol 88 Number 1. p89. The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum has become a cultural icon and can be seen widely throughout popular culture. It is featured in Matthew Barneys The Cremaster Cycle, Bye Bye Birdie, Men in Black, When in Rome, Downtown 81, and prominently in The International, where a major shootout occurs in the museum. In fact a life size replica of the museum was built for this scene. The New Yorker magazine has included the museum multiple times on its cover and in various cartoons. Berlins Judisches Museum (Jewish Museum) September 2001 In one of the worlds biggest genocides ever before seen in history, WWII was a dark unstable era. From the German Nazi camps to the gas chambers of a very grim world, human beings were being cattled like animals from camp to camp, starved enough to die from hunger due to lack of food and water or forced into the chambers of death, only to be suffocated by the belief of a Nazi dictator, Adolf Hitler. This was the Jewish Genocide. Berlins Judisches Museum (Jewish Museum is housed in a remarkable modern building designed by Daniel Libeskind. The museum was opened in September 2001. Some say it was shaped a bit like the Star of David and containing bizarre angles to symbolise the Holocaust, the Judisches Museum is the largest and most unique Jewish museum in Europe. It takes you back in time sending a chill down your spine giving you a sense of what really happened back then in the holocaust. The circumstances of the museums foundation and the collections it is based on, the people who have directed its development can be found here as well as personalities of public life who are dedicated to the intercultural understanding of the Jewish Museums and pHYPERLINK http://www.jmberlin.de/main/EN/04-About-The-Museum/05-Prize-UT/00-award_ceremony.phprize for understanding and tolerance. Like in any other new structure built whether it being a church, museum, hospital or home, numerous views and opinions where expressed in relation to the Jewish Museum in Berlin. Visitors had seen Libeskinds new building as either a spectacularornormal museum. It was recognised as a deconstructivist masterpiece, a groundbreaking creation, with its intellectuality in the form of a house, or even an exhibit in its own right. Daniel Libeskind placed great emphasis on peoples perceptions of the building and these are formed day after day. The museums modern architectural elements of the Libeskind building comprise of the zincfacade, the Garden of Exile, the three Axes of the German-Jewish experience, and the Voids. Together these pieces form a visual and spatial language rich with history and symbolism. Not only do they house the museum with its exhibits, but they also provide visitors with their own unique experience as they walk through the spaces, taking them back in time almost like a time capsule, being able to understand what the museum is trying to portray and what story it is trying to tell. The new building of the museum is best described as Zig-zag. The design is based on two linear structures which when combined, form the body of the building. The first line is a winding one with several kinks while the second line cuts through the whole building. At the intersections of these lines, there are empty spaces otherwise known as Voids. These voids rise vertically from the ground floor of the building up to the roof. Daniel Libeskind imagines the continuation of both lines throughout the city of Berlin and beyond. Almost like a destructive train line travelling through europe not knowing where its going to end up. An irrational and invisible matrix (Daniel Libeskind, 1995) The facade of the Jewish museum barely enables a conclusion to be drawn in regards to the buildings interior. Neither levels nor rooms become apparent to the observer. The positioning of the windows are primarily narrow slits that follow a precise matrix. They are also based on a network of connections. During the design process, architect, Daniel Libeskind plotted the addresses of prominent Jewish and German citizens on a map of pre-war Berlin and joined the points to form an irrational and invisible matrix in which he based the language of form, geometry and the shape of the building. The New Building is coated in zinc, a material that has a long tradition in Berlins architectural history. It consists of untreated alloy and titanium with zinc that will oxidize and change color through exposure to light and weather over the years. A Void is not really a museum space. (Daniel Libeskind, 1999) Voids represent a central structural element in the New Building and form the connection to the Old Building. In the Old Building, there is a staircase that leads down to the basement through a Void of bare concrete which joins the two buildings together. Five voids run vertically through the New Building. They have walls of bare concrete, they are not heated or air-conditioned and also hardly any artificial light, they are quite separate from the rest of the building. The upper levels of the exhibition, the Voids are clearly visible with black exterior walls. The Museums Voids refer to that which can never be exhibited when it comes to Jewish Berlin history: Humanity reduced to ashes. (Daniel Libeskind, 2000) In the museum there are also underground passageways that link the Old Building with the Libeskind Building. These passageways have no official entrance. There is a path system as you pass by the great void made of three axes symbolising three realities in the history of German Jews. The first and longest of these axes is the Axis of Continuity. This axes connects the Old Building with the main staircase otherwise known as the Sackler Staircase which leads up to the exhibition levels. Daniel Libeskind describes the Axis of Continuity as a continuation of Berlins history, it is the connecting path from which the other two axes branch off. The Garden of Exile attempts to completely disorient the visitor. It represents a shipwreck of history. (Daniel Libeskind, 1999) The second of the axis is the Axis of Emigration which leads outside to daylight and to the Garden of Exile. On the journey to this great garden, the museum walls are slightly slanted and close into eachother, almost symbolising a path of destruction that plagued the past of german history. The floor is uneven and ascends gradually. A heavy door must be opened before the crucial step into the garden can be taken. Almost a portrayal in fighting your way through hell to get to heaven, making the jouney that worth while. Or is it ? The Garden of Exile is reached after leaving the axes. The whole garden is on a 12ÂÂ ° gradient and disorients visitors, giving them a sense of the total instability and lack of orientation which was experienced by those who were driven out of Germany. Russian willow oak that grew on top of pillars in the garden symbolised hope. The third of axiss is the Axis of the Holocaust which is basically a dead end. This axis becomes narrower and darker and ends at the Holocaust Tower. Glass cases on the way display documents and personal possessions devulging to the private and public life of their owners who were killed. These three underground axes symbolise the connection between the three realities of Jewish life in Germany. The new Glass Courtyard at the Jewish Museum in Berlin was built from a design titled Sukkah which is Hebrew for thatched booth, by Daniel Libeskind. This glass courtyard is the second extension to the museum. The structure itself consists features of the New Building with its shiny silver facade and the Old Building, it is a successful synthesis of old and new. This combination is strengthened by the further addition of the Glass Courtyard to the ensemble. The light flooded Glass Courtyard has its own distinctive feel. While the Libeskind Buildings zig-zag form is a metaphorical reference to destruction of German-Jewish history, theSukkah theme is one of social gathering appropriate for a courtyard. There is also the new glass roof that covers the U-shaped courtyard at about 670mÂÂ ² in size. It is supported by four freestanding bundles of steel pillars. It portrayed the structure of a tree which was the main inspiration for creating the supporting pillars, which extend into the roof forming a steel network. The integration of the Glass Courtyard with the existing Old Building posed an architectonic challenge. This glass construction does not outplay the Old Building, the landmarked Collegienhaus which was erected in 1735, in scale and appearance stands proud an independent to the new building. The Glass Hall was a complex building project, interelating the old museum with the new Jewish museum. It was deemed unconventional for both construction and materials used. Due to the expressive and asymmetrical geometry in Libeskinds design, it presented enornmous challenges to those involved in the construction process, such as the structural engineers and facade planners involved. Steel being used for such a project was also very unusual to them as well. They were used to steel that normally supported construction with right-angled or curved geometry. In the Glass Courtyard it formed branches and treetops. Almost like painting picture out of steel. Metal alloy steel, out of all materials used, demonstrated one of the most unconventional uses of steel in contemporary architecture. Four branching steel bundles each consisted of three steel pillars with the rough estimated diameter of a tree. Their function is primarily static, also in the case of fire, they contain media cables within, offering some protection to the cables. The roof girders were assembled and bolted together onsite at the building site at roof height. The weight of the pillars weighed up to six tons each and the roof girder sections weighed up to eight tons each, a crane had to be formed that withstood a bearing capacity of 200 tons necessary. The Glass Courtyard now provides the museum with space for a variety of events, such as educational workshops, concerts, theatrical performances, and receptions for up to five hundred people. It also serves to extend the museums entrance area and thereby improves the regulation of visitor flow and circulation.The new room is located a few steps way from the main entrance and its existing infrastructure. It includes cloakrooms, ticket counters, and the museum restaurant. To date over four million people have visited the Jewish Museum. It is well know for its diverse cultural and educational programs. The Glass Courtyard provides a suitable and architecturally appealing solution, which will enable this vibrant development of the museum to continue in the future. In conclusion the Altes Museum is a typical example of classical architecture which date back from Ancient Greece and the Rome Empire. It signifies a sense of formality and power amongst the people of its time. Royalty and size of structures were more common in those times rather then smartly designed structures that could achieve the same purpose. Such structures such as the Guggenheim Museum in New York, although very large in scale, it was a building designed after the turn of the century, that sparked controversy and disbelief that something of that scale and facade could be built in a congested city environment. It was considered fantasy rather then a reality. It was built and it achieved the same purpose as the Altes Museum in Berlin, but it was designed better and more cleverly incorporating the use of natural light throughout the whole structure and the use of continuity in circulation, which made the design one of the worlds most prominent buildings. Following on from such a magnificent structure in New York, we come back to Berlin, where Berlin followed a similar approach in redesigning and extending New Jewish Museum. No one ever thought that something of so significant in history could be reinvented in a way where it takes people back in time to the hurt and pain of Nazi Germany. This museum was created in such a way that it completely blew away the traditional approach of a museum. The buildings special features that include spiraling walls, sloping floors, a windowless Holocaust Tower, and symbolic lines of windows that resemble wounds. When it comes to the Holocaust, a design approach such as this one, executed perfectly, cannot come up, close and personal as this remarkable museum.

Essay --

What is commonly referred to as Islamic terrorism is based on grievances in the Muslim world that stem from the perception that the United States is only continuing what the "West" has done historically: interfere with and invade Muslim countries. "It isn't McDonalds, it's not bikinis, or our form of government," noted one panelists. The United States needs to focus more on using soft power and repairing its reputation rather than hard military power. It is important to distinguish among different types of terrorists and deal with each kind accordingly. The strategy used against one type might prove to be counterproductive or have the opposite effect on another group. Panelists agreed it is critical to differentiate between tactical/local terrorists and strategic/global ones. Tactical terrorists use violence to achieve a specific political (usually local) goal and are willing to negotiate with their announced enemy. They usually have a political wing along with their military one, which signals that the group can be negotiated with and that it has the potential to transform into a more political and social force. Strategic terrorists in contrast are not too concerned with politics and are instead in a state of perpetual global war against perpetual enemies. They reject all other opinions and believe they have a monopoly on truth. Negotiation with such a group is impossible. The goal of an effective counterterrorism strategy would be to fracture the alliances that global/strategic groups have with local/tactical ones. This could be done by deterring the local/tactical ones from aiding and operating with Al Qaeda types. Making sure the cost of cooperating with Al Qaeda might include the loss of a local group's political objective is... ...with the creation of Resolution 1624 to deal with the incitement of terrorism. So you've got this web, a proliferation of committees on a bureaucratic level to make them look like they're doing something in the Security Council. But really, there's a lot of overlapping mandates. And a lot of people, including the U.S. government, are scratching their head, wondering really how effective all of these new committees can be in dealing with the problem. And to add to that, an executive directorate was created with 20 new experts by the counterterrorism committee, that now goes on site visits all over the world. So they have two components to dealing with terrorism. It's really more focused on capacity building, helping states to get the wherewithal, the means to deal with terrorism, than there is any of these compliance issues, reporting them to the Security Council.

The Experiment :: essays research papers

The Experiment The Experiment was written based off the moral war between whether or no cloning is right. It involves three main people: Jude, Skyler and Tizzie. Jude is a newspaper reporter and has been dating Tizzie for quite awhile. Tizzie is a doctor who studies twins and the different types. Jude was doing a newspaper article and that was how he met Tizzie. He had to get information for the article and was told that Tizzie was the person to talk to when it came to twins. She happened to be a highly recognized doctor in that field. While all of this is going on in New York, Skyler, Jude’s clone, is living on an island with many other clones, even though they don’t know they’re clones. Skyler and his best friend discover that something happening on the island was wrong and dangerous. They plan on an escape, but Skyler’s friend dies in the attempt. Skyler grows up there and falls in love with one of the females on the island who happened to be Tizzie’s clone. Sk yler and Tizzie’s clone decide that they want to find out what has really been going on, on that island for so long. They dig through the offices trying to find just the smallest bit of information that could help them in their search. One day Skyler was out and felt that something was amiss. So that no one would know of Skyler and the girl’s search they conjured up a way to secretly communicate when to meet each other and where. It involved a rock, a tree and where the rock was place by the tree. Well, when Skyler got the chance he went to check on the rock because he hadn’t seen his love in a very long time. Later he finds out that she was killed in â€Å"The Lab† with all of her organs taken. He managed to escape the island and make it to the mainland. After a long while he made his way to New York and found out that he looked exactly like a man he saw in the newspaper†¦ Jude. Meanwhile, Jude has his own struggles with being stalked by large men w ith white streaks in their hair. One night, Skyler finds out where Jude lives and decides to take a visit. Just is very startled when he first meets him, but gradually gets use to the idea that they were either twins or clones.

aristotle :: essays research papers

In my opinion the consequences of our actions should play as a reminder in our effort to assess what is ethical behavior and what is not. It can be said as a reminder because, individuals may learn from their actions. The consequences of their actions are either ethical or not. Therefore, every time the individuals look back to their actions, they will remember whether the actions have left them a good result or not. Thus, they will create a habit that may help them to make choices on whether their actions are ethical or not. According to Aristotle’s theorizing of agency, there is a link between ethics and the idea of responsibility to actions performed voluntarily. Based on this explanation, individuals can actually choose their actions assessing which behavior is ethical and which one is not. Individuals live according to moral virtue, which means that they are involved in choosing actions properly. However, there is a moral question that keeps coming up, which is how the individuals choose the right course of action in any given situation. Human beings are both rational and passionate creatures. With their intelligence and emotion or desire, human beings make their decision. They realize that they have a natural function to choose what they think is right and wrong to obtain the â€Å"supreme Good.† More over if a human being follows his or her rational principle, he or she will reach the idea of a good life. The definition of a good life may be different for everyone. However, based on the Aristotle’s ethical theory, it is said that a good life is reached when individuals have fulfilled their proper natural function. There are two modes of thoughts whereby the practical mind apprehends variable, contingent truths. They are: art or technical skill and prudence or practical wisdom. The art of technical skill is the state where an individual make something with the involvement of true course of reasoning. With this skill, individuals can choose and make their decision with reasoning. Therefore, the effort of assessing what is ethical and what is not is made with this skill. Prudence or practical wisdom is where the individuals choose practical actions that are conducive to the sorts of goods. This is also where the individuals decide to take actions that are either good or bad for them. aristotle :: essays research papers In my opinion the consequences of our actions should play as a reminder in our effort to assess what is ethical behavior and what is not. It can be said as a reminder because, individuals may learn from their actions. The consequences of their actions are either ethical or not. Therefore, every time the individuals look back to their actions, they will remember whether the actions have left them a good result or not. Thus, they will create a habit that may help them to make choices on whether their actions are ethical or not. According to Aristotle’s theorizing of agency, there is a link between ethics and the idea of responsibility to actions performed voluntarily. Based on this explanation, individuals can actually choose their actions assessing which behavior is ethical and which one is not. Individuals live according to moral virtue, which means that they are involved in choosing actions properly. However, there is a moral question that keeps coming up, which is how the individuals choose the right course of action in any given situation. Human beings are both rational and passionate creatures. With their intelligence and emotion or desire, human beings make their decision. They realize that they have a natural function to choose what they think is right and wrong to obtain the â€Å"supreme Good.† More over if a human being follows his or her rational principle, he or she will reach the idea of a good life. The definition of a good life may be different for everyone. However, based on the Aristotle’s ethical theory, it is said that a good life is reached when individuals have fulfilled their proper natural function. There are two modes of thoughts whereby the practical mind apprehends variable, contingent truths. They are: art or technical skill and prudence or practical wisdom. The art of technical skill is the state where an individual make something with the involvement of true course of reasoning. With this skill, individuals can choose and make their decision with reasoning. Therefore, the effort of assessing what is ethical and what is not is made with this skill. Prudence or practical wisdom is where the individuals choose practical actions that are conducive to the sorts of goods. This is also where the individuals decide to take actions that are either good or bad for them.

Pro-Choice Presentation Essay

1. Intro: How many people believe that terminating a pregnancy is a horrible thing, that under no circumstance an abortion should be performed? And how many people believe that interrupting a pregnancy under certain circumstances is okay, certain circumstances including: rape, unplanned pregnancy, and medical reasons? â€Å"Quote by Hillary Rodham Clinton on being pro-choice is not being pro-abortion.† 2. Thesis: I would like to give you a little more information tonight on a topic that is very disputed now in day. And I would like to change the way you think about the term †pro-choice† 3. Audience: Women just like men have rights, and not being able to decide what you would like to do with your body takes away from those rights. 4. Preview: I. discuss the origin of abortion and how it was performed in ancient culture II. describe the methods of abortion today. II. Who aborts and the reasons why? I. History of abortion A. in and article named â€Å"when did abortion begin† on About.com 1. The practice of abortion can be dated all the way back to 1550 BCE and it is first seen in Ancient Egyptian Culture. However we also see it in Ancient Persian culture, ancient Roman and ancient Greek. And since then the topic of abortion has caused a controversy . people pick pro-life or pro-choice. They used plants to terminate a pregnancy in the past. II. Terminating a pregnancy today can be performed with surgically, with certain plants, and with pills. A. The University of Washington published an article Facts for Women ¨termination of pregnancy† it describes the different ways to perform an abortion. 1. Medical Abortions: This is performed by taking a pill or receiving an injection. 2. Surgical Abortion: A way to terminate pregnancy surgically. a. For both you receive counseling, you sign a consent form, give medical history, have a physical exam including an ultrasound, and have lab tests. III. Reasons to why? And who aborts. A. a website named Action Life, wrote an article named â€Å"The real reasons women choose abortion† Gudrun Schultz claims that 92% of women choose abortion as an alternative because of social or other factors. Those â€Å"other factors† 25% Not ready for a(nother) child/timing is wrong 23% Can’t afford a baby now 19% Have completed my childbearing/have other people depending on me/children are grown 8% Don’t want to be a single mother/am having relationship problems 7% Don’t feel mature enough to raise a(nother) child/feel too young 4% Would interfere with education or career plans 4% Physical problem with my health 3% Possible problems affecting the health of the fetus  poverty level. Why bring a child to suffer. If you cannot provide for your own child why have it? 5. Conclusion: I’m not encouraging you to get an abortion. I am just trying to get you to view â€Å"pro-choice† differently, Laws against abortion don’t stop it, they simply make abortion Less safe. If a person is not ready to be a parent, or cannot afford another child, they should not be forced to have it.

Positive nonverbal messages Essay

From the manner we dress to the manner we move. our gestural signals can uncover a great trade about our emotions. perceptual experiences and purposes. When a individual is speaking or listening. he sends uninterrupted messages consciously or unconsciously through his organic structure motions. such as the manner he holds his caput. the angle at which he hold his organic structure. his motions of limbs and his altering facial looks. This sort of communicating in which no verbal linguistic communication is used comes under the class of non verbal communicating. Harmonizing to Knapp & A ; Hall ( 2002 ) non verbal communicating refers to communicating that is produced by some agencies other than words. e. g. . oculus contact. organic structure linguistic communication or vocal cues. The significance of gestural communicating. in set uping interpersonal relationships. is far greater than any one can believe of. Harmonizing to experts. a significant part of our communicating is gestural. On the footing of its consequence gestural communicating can be classified under following three classs. 1. POSITIVE NONVERBAL COMMUNICATION – Positive gestural messages puts the other individual at easiness. When a individual expresses an unfastened and positive attitude towards the individual with whom he is interacting. it creates a supportive and collaborative ambiance. Use of positive non-verbal communicating helps a individual to go more effectual and successful. It significantly affects the degree of interpersonal relationship. It besides determines the overall feeling people form about a individual. There are several types of positive non verbal indexs. For illustration turning face to the transmitter. tilting somewhat frontward towards him bespeak that he is interested. . Noding to show apprehension. smiling or touching the individual gently are other types of positive non verbal cues. The oculus contact is most effectual non verbal cue to accomplish the end of deriving someone’s trust. The manner one uses his organic structure and limbs. his eyes and face. will hold a major influence on how his non verbal messages are perceived. 2. NEGATIVE NONVERBAL COMMUNICATION – Sometimes not verbal organic structure motions. gestures and facial looks generate disinterest & A ; misgiving. It creates a province of confusion on the portion of the receiving system. The type of communicating which comes under the above class is known as negative gestural communicating. Negative gestural messages shackles collaborative and supportive environment. To guarantee effectual communicating one must avoid giving such type of cues. Gazing or staring at other can make force per unit area and tenseness between the receiving system and the transmitter. Negative facial look. devious eyes. excessively much eye blink suggest misrepresentation Eyebrow musculus draws the superciliums down and toward the centre of the face if person is annoyed. Talking to person without keeping the oculus contact is deflecting and frequently interpreted as insulting. If a individual keeps speaking on phone or keeps working on the computing machine during the conversation. it shows that he is non interested. 3. NEUTRAL NONVERBAL COMMUNICATION –This is the type of gestural communicating which have neither positive or negative consequence on the receiving system. The type of organic structure motions. positions and tone which have impersonal consequence on the receiving systems feelings and emotions comes under this class. It is really hard to label any non verbal cue as impersonal. Peoples attach intending even to a impersonal message. During listening one seldom can remain soundless for long. silence in some cases may be treated as impersonal non verbal communicating. If it lasts more than for 5-6 seconds so it turns into a negative cue. Sounds like ‘Mmm’ . ‘Ah’ and ‘Hmmm’ when used in a impersonal manner invite scholar to go on speaking. CONCLUSION – Sending clear gestural messages and understanding right the message send by person. mostly depends upon the manner how you are comprehending the entire state of affairs. and the individual with whom you are pass oning. Your head set and the environment in which the communicating is taking topographic point besides find how you interpret and react to the non verbal messages. Interpretation of the messages depends upon past experiences. feelings. attitude and socio cultural background of the receiving system. Communication can be misperceived if the beginning and the receiving system does non portion common experiences and common frame of mention. REFERENCES Knapp. M. L & A ; Hall. J. A ( 2002 ) Non Verbal Communication in Human Interaction. Crawfordsville. Inch: Thompson Learning Smith. T. E. & A ; Gartin B. C. Murdick. N. L. & A ; Hilton. A ( 2006 ) : Positive Indicator Of Non Verbal Communication Pearson Allyn Bacon Prentice Hall retrieved on 13th May. 2010 Windle. R & A ; Warren. S Communication Skills retrieved on 13th May 2010 from hypertext transfer protocol: //www. directionservice. org/cadre/section4. cfm

Foreign market entry strategies Essay

â€Å"Firms which participate in the business system as partners complement the company and its suppliers, thereby increasing the value to customers†. Explain your understanding of this view and provide examples to reinforce your arguments. For a company, entering new foreign markets may be achieved in a variety of ways. Each of these ways places its unique demands on the company in terms of organizational and financial resources. Most of the times, entering international markets is not a matter of choice but of necessity to remain competitive in new or established markets by meeting the consumer’ needs and values. The decision to go international represents an important commitment, to go into a new line of activity, this being the reason why it should be taken step by step: obtaining information, analyzing them, formulating alternative action plans, (Tookey, 1975) and of course find the right partners that match the company brand image and values. The international business system model is focused on the advantages determined by the internationalisation process and less on the development process of the internationalisation of companies. The main scope obtained by applying the Uppsala Model is predicting the company’s evolution on foreign markets. Two elements are at the basis of the model: the notion of essentiality attributed to the process and the notion of physical distance. The internationalisation of a multinational company takes place step by step, according to the Uppsala Model, which minimises the risks regarding the new market (Johanson; Wiedersheim-Paul, 1975). Therefore, the company is being involved gradually (investments, control and profit), getting to the point of creating a production subsidiary which ensures also the selling of the products on the new market. The stages of the internationalisation process are presented in Appendix 1. The concept of physical distance, the second element the Uppsala Model is based upon determines the companies to select, in a first stage, the neighbour countries in order to reduce the cultural, economical, political differences. According to this approach, the bigger the physical distance, the bigger is the incertitude about the new market and bigger the risks associated to this market. In the view of the globalisation phenomena, there are numerous criticisms about the â€Å"physical distance† notion. Many papers have developed the subject of the company’s internationalisation; a special place holds J. Birkinshaw who analysed the problems regarding the role of the subsidiaries and the evolution of the mandated in the internationalisation process at the multinational’s level. Therefore, Birkinshaw and Hoods (1998) have shown that creating a subsidiary can be explained on the basis of the interactions between the decisions of the mother-company, the initiatives o f the subsidiary and the specific conditions existing on the new market. The model developed by Birkinshaw (1997) is based on three variables: The relation headquarters – subsidiary; the subsidiary’s initiatives and the local environment. Regarding the internationalisation process, the company has more options (see Appendix 2) The first choice is represented by the development of the existing markets and it is being used by companies that are acting on highly competitive markets; the second choice – the company can choose to develop its activity on new markets, similar to the ones they are already acting on – in this case, they are usually choosing to export their products; the third strategy is developing a new line of products similar to the ones they already have and which will be sold on similar markets- in this case the company can choose between strategic alliances: creating a joint venture or licensing. . Management’s involvement in export operations is different, as we talk about passive exporters (when selling abroad is induced by the demand existing on the foreign market, meaning that the business is initiated by the importer) or active exporters (when the operation is initiated by the seller, which has an export strategy and a suitable business plan (Popa, 2006) From the operational point of view, exporters can be indirect exporters(with the participation of trading houses), when it isn’t necessary to create an organizational structure specific to the export activity or direct exporters, which is made by the producer, which is creating services or departments for international business. The determinants of export behaviour are experience and uncertainty effects; behavioural and firm-specific influences and strategic influences. 1. Experience and uncertainty effects Knowledge and learning regarding the exporting activity may be possessed or accumulated by the company in time. Experience has a key role, as firm’s involvement in international markets is most of the time a gradual process. During the early stages of exporting, firms have a more concentrated foreign market focus, while increased involvement in foreign market encourages diversification to a wider range of markets. As a firm’s knowledge of an export market increases, the uncertainty factor diminishes. This knowledge allows the identification of concrete opportunities, as distinct from theoretical that may be apparent from objective knowledge. 2. Behavioural and firm-specific influences Recent theories of exporting are strongly influenced by the behavioural theory of the firm, which stresses decision-maker characteristics, organizational dynamics and constraints, ignorance and uncertainty as key variables in decision making. Exporting has been described as a development process based on a learning sequence involving six stages Bilkey and Tesar, 1977): Stage 1: the firm is not interested in exporting Stage 2: the firm supplies unsolicited business, doesn’t examine the feasibility of active exporting Stage 3: the firm examines the feasibility of exporting in an active way Stage 4: experimental exports on neighbour countries Stage 5: the firm becomes an experienced exporter Stage 6: the firm explores the feasibility of exporting to additional countries of greater business distance. According to Welch (1982), the export commitment is influenced by four groups of factors (see figure 4): pre-export activities, direct export stimuli, latent influences on the firm and the role of the decision-maker. 3. Strategic influences The opinion among researchers and managers is divided on the issue of the relation between the firm size and export success. Still, the importance of a positive managerial attitude to exporting and the necessity of committing managerial and financial resources to the internationalization process are crucial to the success of the firm, irrespective of size. As a mode of international market entry, strategic alliances allow the firm (Bradley, 2002): †¢ Access to assets not readily available in the market †¢ Access to technology and markets †¢ The smaller firms can have access to technology and new products †¢ The larger firms can have access to markets †¢ Synergetic effects in the partner firms. Choosing the way to enter a foreign market represents an important part of the foreign direct investment strategy. The companies should select the new market, decide upon the types of operations that are about to be developed on these markets and decide the type of entry –green field investments, acquisitions, joint ventures. Choosing the way to enter a foreign market was also explained through cultural and national factors. Many studies have been concerned about this topic: †¢ Kogut and Singh (1988) after researches have concluded that a big cultural distance between the country of origin and the host country have as a result choosing joint ventures or green field investments. †¢ Gatignon and Anderson (1988) have shown that an important socio-cultural distance, measured with the help of the Index developed by Ronen and Shenkar (1985) – goes to the partial propriety right. †¢ Gatignon and Anderson (1988) have concluded that multinational companies avoid having 100% owned subsidiaries in high risk countries. †¢ Cho and Radmanabhan (1995) have shown that companies from Japan are not willing to make acquisitions in developing countries. Choosing the joint venture as a mechanism to enter new markets (especially the developing countries and the ones with centralised economy) is usual ly a second-best option for the companies from developed countries. Still, the companies show through this the major interest for the local market; the participation in the joint-venture could be qualified as a foreign direct investment. Many times, this mechanism represents the only way to be present on a certain market. Licensing in international markets: License is the purchase or sale by contract of product pr process technology, design and marketing expertise (Bradley, 2002). It involves the market contracting of knowledge and know-how. International licensing takes place when a company provides, for a certain fee-royalty, a technology needed by another company in order to operate a business in a foreign market. Licensing of this firm involves one or more of these elements: †¢ a brand name †¢ operations expertise †¢ manufacturing process technology †¢ access to patents †¢ trade secrets. Licensing may be attractive when host countries restrict imports or foreign direct investment, or when the market is small and when the prospects of technology feedback are high. Franchising to enter international markets: Franchising is a derivative of licensing. In franchising a business format is licensed, not a product or a technology. Trademarks, trade names, copyright, designs, patents, trade secrets and know-how may all be involved in different mixtures in the „package† to be licensed. Franchising is a form of marketing and distribution in which the franchisor grants an individual or company, the franchisee, the right to do business in a prescribed manner over a certain period of time, in a specified place (Ayling, 1986). A franchise is, according to International Franchise Association (IFA), the agreement or license between two legally independent parties which gives: †¢ a person or group of people (franchisee) the right to market a product or service using the trademark or trade name of another business (franchisor) †¢ the franchisee the right to market a product or service using the operating methods of the franchisor †¢ t he franchisee the obligation to pay the franchisor fees for These rights †¢ the franchisor has the obligation to provide rights and support to franchisees. Types of Franchises There are two main types of franchises: product distribution and business format. Product distribution franchises simply sell the franchisor’s products and are supplier-dealer relationships. In product distribution franchising, the franchisor licenses its trademark and logo to the franchisees but typically does not provide them with an entire system for running their business. The industries where you most often find this type of franchising are soft drink distributors, automobile dealers and gas stations. Some familiar product distribution franchises include: Pepsi, Exxon, Ford Motor Company. Although product distribution franchising represents the largest percentage of total retail sales, most franchises available today are business format opportunities. Business format franchises, on the other hand, not only use a franchisor’s product, service and trademark, but also the complete method to conduct the business itself, such as the marketing plan and operations manuals. Business format franchises are the most common type of franchise. The United States, today reported that the 10 most popular franchising opportunities are in these industries: fast food, retail, service, automotive, restaurants, maintenance, building and construction, retail—food, business services, lodging. The many advantages and disadvantages of owning a franchise should be carefully evaluated before deciding to purchase one. Throughout all these different foreign market entry strategies, by understanding every characteristic detailed we can conclude that partnership can be at the core of international marketing decisions and enable possibilities of internationalisation. Partnerships can be structured in various ways depending on their purpose. Wholly foreign-owned enterprises, non-equity/contractual/co-operative strategic alliances, equity strategic alliances/joint ventures, and franchises, are basic types of formal partnerships. There are numerous other types of informal partnerships including; joint marketing & promotion, joint selling or distribution, technology licensing, R & D contracts, design collaboration, production agreements, and other synergies. Consequently, the ideal partner in a business partnership is one that has resources, skills and assets and values which complement the company. The partnership has to work financially and contractually, but it is also essential that a partner’s areas of strength and weakness are known and that an assessment is made of what actions would be needed to achieve an appropriate level of operational fit between the cultures of the two organisations. To meet the market needs effectively and in a sustained way, the business partnership must be based on a systematic and transparent agreement between the client and the partners (common values). That agreement provides the basis for a partnership deal and has to be sufficiently strong to engage the sustained commitment of both parties but also sufficiently flexible to enable the partnership to be responsive to changes in market needs and conditions. Being at the forefront partners are an extension of the company capability, image and valu es perceived by the consumer, therefore, complement the company by increasing the value to customers. For instance, Sony is an international and reputed company for its high standards range of TVs. Today, within the UK market, Sony position itself as a seller of durable and high end products by practicing a selective distribution. Their products are mostly found at Sony Centres (Sony own shop) or PC Currys World, exclusive partner (distributor) chosen by Sony well known in the market and sharing similar values such as expertise in the audiovisual area or guarantee of quality products and services. It reflects well a relevant and consistent image of the values conveyed by both organisations to the customers.

For profit and non profit organization Essay

Both not for profit and for profit companies have many similarity and differences. A lot of companies start with the intent of making a profit. These companies also pay taxes and are called profit or for profit companies (Rodwell, & Teo, 2013). Other companies, while they can make a profit begin with the intent of helping others. These companies are not for profit or non-profit organizations. Nonprofit organizations are not allowed to make a profit, and do not pay taxes, but they might generate income. Any income generated by a nonprofit must be returned to the organization to accomplish the goals for which it was established (Anand, 2008). Regardless of its status, many companies like Goodwill Industries International and BP P.L.C. are faced with challenges that threaten the company ethically and morally. Part One: Goodwill Industries International (Not-for-Profit) Profile of Goodwill Industries: Goodwill Industries International is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. Donations and gifts are fully tax-deductible to the degree acceptable by law. Goodwill Industries International is a worldwide social services initiative that creates opportunities for people to attain financial constancy and build durable families and lively communities by offering job training, employment assignment services and other community-based programs for people who have incapacities, those who do not have the education or job experience, and others who face difficulties finding employment (Goodwill Industries International, 2014). Goodwill supports the operations of about 165 individual Goodwill chapters in the US and Canada. Founded in 1902, Goodwill is one of the world’s leading benefactors of such services, as well as one of the largest employers in the world of the disabled (Hoovers, 2014). Areas of Interest: While it is most recognized for its 2,800 thrift stores, Goodwill concentrates on offering rehabilitation, job preparation, placement, and employment servi ces for people with disabilities and others. The company helps people to find and keep good jobs (Hoovers, 2014). Goodwill offers programs for young people, senior citizens, veterans, and people with disabilities, criminal backgrounds and other specialized needs (Goodwill Industries International, 2014). Mission statement: Goodwill works to improve the self-worth and value of life of individuals and families by reinforcing communities, removing obstacles to opportunity, and helping people in need achieve their full potential through learning and the power  of work. Goodwill strives to enhance the dignity and quality of life of individuals and families by helping people reach their full potential through education, skills training and the power of work (Goodwill Industries International, 2014). Summary of activities: (Based on 2013 Data) Last year, Goodwill assisted more than 9.8 million people prepare for careers in industries such as banking, IT and health care, and to get the backup services they needed to be successful (Hoovers, 2014). Last year the company served 9.8 million through employment and training programs, 44 million through mission services, 261, 875 received a job with Goodwill’s assistance and its estimated that those people earned $4.4 billion (Goodwill Industries International, 2014). Funding Sources: Support for Goodwill programs is produced mainly from the sale of contribution of goods, both at the retail stores and through an online auction site, and from contract work and government grants (Goodwill Industries International, 2014). The total profits produced by Goodwill organizations was $5.17 billion of which 83% was spent on programs. There are 87 million donors. Retail stores generated $3.79 billion, industrial and service contract work produced $647 million, $90 million came from government grants and $27 million from corporate and foundation grants. Individual gifts, donations and fees for services generated $46 million and government support foe mission services produced $455 millio n (Goodwill Industries International, 2014). History: Goodwill was founded in 1902 in Boston by Rev. Edgar J. Helms, a Methodist minister and early social visionary. Helms gathered old domestic goods and clothing in more affluent areas of the city, then taught and hired those who were underprivileged to fix and restore the goods (Goodwill Industries International, 2014). Goodwill Structure: Goodwill International’s CEO is Jim Gibbons. Cindy Cho Kim is the Director of International Development and currently there are two spokespeople Organization expert Lorie Marrero is the face of the Donate Movement. ABC reporter Evette Rios united with Goodwill’s cause in 2012 to help to plead to the Latin American market. Goodwill stores are self-governing organizations headed by a charitable board of directors (Goodwill Industries International, 2014). Goodwill has a connection of 165 independent, community-based Goodwill stores in the United States and Canada. Each local Goodwill must be accredited, request participation and meet specific standards created by Goodwill Industries  International (GII) (Goodwill Industries International, 2014). The GII Member Services center, is located in Rockville, MD. There are 2,900 total retail stores. Goodwill Industries of the Columbia, Inc. was initially recognized as a branch division of the Seattle Goodwill in 1961. Goodwill also has an online auction site at www.shopgoodwill.com (Goodwill Industries International, 2014). Values statement: The goods were then resold or were given to the people who fixed them. The system worked, and the Goodwill value of â€Å"a hand up, not a hand out† was established. (Goodwill Industries International, 2014). The value statement includes respect, integrity, stewardship, innovation and excellence (Goodwill Industries International, 2014). Problems: One problem that Goodwill Industries has is their view in the public eye. Many Goodwill stores are viewed as exploiters of disabled citizens. Some stores used a federal law under the Special Wage Certificate Program, to employ disabled workers at rates of 22, 38, and 41 cents per hour (Gibson, 2 013). The law allows nonprofits and companies to get a certificate that lets them to employ disabled workers â€Å"based on their abilities† at whatever salary they find suitable, with no minimum. This is compared to the $729,000 in salary and deferred compensation that the CEO, Jim Gibbson makes. The CEOs of Goodwill organizations across the U.S. mutually earned $30 million (Gibson, 2013). The problem exists because there are numerous disabled adults who still need to support themselves but cannot get hired by normal means. Management and upper administrators have the ability to ensure that all their employees work in a safe and equal working environment which proper accommodations for their disabilities. Goodwill’s response was that disabled workers would not be hired anywhere else and should be appreciative for any amount they make even if it is 22 cents. Goodwill is against eliminating the program because it would cause more harm than good (Gibson, 2013). Support for Goodwill programs is produced mainly from the sale of contribution of goods, both at the retail stores and through an online auction site, and from contract work and government grants (Goodwill Industries International, 2014). Another problem that Goodwill faces is criticisms for ripping off customers. The prices of items are for a donated used article. Goodwill has been accused of taking the better donated items and selling the products on eBay or keeping them for themselves, or calling family members to come in and purchase the items. They also sell the less desirable items in stores and price them at ridiculously expensive prices for used and donated items. According to Smith, selfishness is a fundamental driving force of human conduct (Fieser & Moseley, 2012). Companies such as Goodwill accumulate wealth through a system that presents good intentions but are driven by greed. The company has become very wealthy off of items that were completely free. Company Impact: One report indicates a decrease in donations (Begam, 2010). Donations for several local charities are at an all-time low this year. Goodwill says their donations are down 25% in their stores across the region (Begam, 2010). Many consumers are urged not to donate to Goodwill because of their treatment of disabled employees and pricing donated goods at high prices. Part Two: BP P.L.C (For-Profit) Although BP P.L.C. is a profit organization, it faces many challenges that also threaten the company ethically and morally. Profile of BP, P.L.C.: BP is one of the world’s leading international oil and gas companies. We provide customers with fuel for transportation, energy for heat and light, lubricants to keep engines moving, and the petrochemicals products used to make everyday items as diverse as paints, clothes and packaging (BP, 2014). Areas of Interest: BP’s area of interests includes finding and extracting oil and gas to producing fuels, lubricants and petrochemicals (BP, 2014). Mission Statement: Although not specifically labeled a â€Å"mission statement,† BP has a published statement of â€Å"What We Stand For†: â€Å"BP wants to be recognized as a great company – competitively successful and a force for progress. We have a fundamental belief that we can make a difference in the world. We help the world meet its growing need for heat, li ght and mobility. We strive to do that by producing energy that is affordable, secure and doesn’t damage the environment (BP, 2014). Summary of Activities: In 2013 BP completed 17 exploration wells and made seven potentially commercial discoveries in 2013. It was the most successful year for exploration drilling in almost a decade. They started three major projects in 2013 and another three in January and February 2014. They completed the commissioning of all major units for the Whiting refinery upgrade, transforming it into one of our advantaged downstream assets in our portfolio (BP, 2014). Funding  Sources: In 2013 BP had several areas of funding. Sales and other operating revenues totaled 379,136 million dollars. Earnings from joint ventures – after interest and tax totaled 447 million dollars. Earnings from associates – after interest and tax totaled 2,742 million dollars. Interest and other income totaled 777 million dollars. Gains on sale of businesses and fixed assets totaled 13,115 million dollars. Total revenues and other income totaled 396,217 million dollars and BP shareholders totaled 23,451 million dollars (BP, 2014). BP’s History: BP’s history begin with innovations, starting in 1908 with oil found in a rugged part of Persia after a long and difficult search. Since then, discoveries large and small have fuelled the company’s progress. Back in England, William D’Arcy gambled his considerable fortune on oil, and was on the verge of losing everything. It seemed that the geologists and experts who had wagged their heads encouragingly at him since 1901 had all been wrong about the oil beneath the sands of Persia. By the early morning of 26 May 1908, the whole camp reeked of sulphur. At four o’clock the drill reached 1,180 feet and a fountain of oil spewed out into the dawn sky. Within a year, the Anglo-Persian Oil Company, which would one day become BP, was in business (BP, 2014). BP’s Values: Our values of safety, respect, excellence, courage and one team align explicitly with BP’s code of conduct and translate into the responsible actions necessary for the work we do every day. Our values represent the qualities and actions we wish to see in BP, they guide the way we do business and the decisions we make (BP, 2014). Structure: BP’s businesses are organized to deliver the energy products and services people around the world need right now. It has 102,498 locations and its international headquarters in located in St James’s Square, London Its Upstream segment is responsible for activities in oil and natural gas exploration, field development and production. Its Downstream segment focuses on fuels, lubricants and petrochemicals. BP is one of the world’s leading international oil and gas companies. They provide customers with fuel for transportation, energy for heat and light, lubricants to keep engines moving, and the petrochemicals products used to make everyday items as diverse as paints, clothes and packaging (BP, 2014). Problems: One problem that BP faces results from the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico in 2010. The company faces many lawsuits. BP is front and center because of  its high-profile role in the disaster, not to mention its deep pockets and its reputation as a global business power. Current estimates have BP setting aside about $32 billion to cover cleanup, legal claims, fines, and other costs related to the spill. So, clearly BP is planning on taking the brunt of the legal blame — and the biggest financial hit, for contributing to the worst oil spill in the nation’s history (Nolo, 2014). Another problem the company faces is the mandated cleanup fines that the government is requiring the company to pay. According to Smith, selfishness is a fundamental driving force of human conduct (Fieser & Moseley, 2012). Companies such as BP accumulate wealth by using resources from the Earth. The company is subject to lawsuits and cleanup fines because of the numerous livelihoods that were damaged and the damage cause to the environment as a result of the oil spill the government requires the company to supply. Recently, BP Oil and Gas filed a petition with US Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia seeking review of a lower court’s decision to have BP continue making payments to the affected parties related to the 2010 Gulf of Mexico oil spill and stop payments to claimants while litigation continues (Matthew, 2014). Impact to Company: Initially, BP had a negative public view and maintained its stock. However, by late June, BP was trading in the $27 range. Fewer analysts recommended buying BP and a few recommended that investors sell. Coincidentally, this was all about the same time as or shortly after BP agreed to put $20 billion into an escrow account to pay for spill-related damages and announced it would not pay stock dividends in 2010 (Lawyers.com, 2014). In addition as of 2013, BP spent $26 billion on response efforts. Part Three: Personal Ethical Evaluation Goodwill Industries International Goodwill’s primary response was driven by selfish motives (Fieser & Moseley, 2012) and morally irresponsible. The company’s response that the people should be grateful and not complain about their wages brings a negative view upon the company. According to Fieser and Moseley (2012), the moral subjectivist thinks that right and wrong is decided by what, the subject of the situation, thinks or feels is right or wrong. However the average person  working in the United States expects to receive minimum wage for working, because it is the norm or culturally relative (Fieser & Moseley, 2012). The culture of the United States would view Goodwill as taking advantage of already limited people. Ethical egoism implies that people act so as to maximize their self-interest (Fieser & Moseley, 2012). Goodwill felt that it was doing a greater good by hiring those who would not normally have gotten employment. Morally speaking, they were within the confines of the law to operate as su ch. Because Goodwill used the Special Wage Certificate Program, to employ disabled workers at rates cents per hour (Gibson, 2013) they were legally justified in their actions. The law allows nonprofits and companies to get a certificate that lets them to employ disabled workers â€Å"based on their abilities† at whatever salary they find suitable, with no minimum. On the other side of this coin is that Goodwill receives grant money from the government for operating as a nonprofit organization and actually helping people in the community. Even though the attempt was noble, they could have done more to improve the situation. Though they hired a demographic of people that would normally remain unemployable, they could have offered a salary that demonstrates a level of equality, fairness or self-worth. In many cases these people were working for less than eight dollars a day. They spent more money in expenses getting to work than they actually made at work. Some of the people complained about that very issue also, that they did not make enough money to cover rent. This is compared to the $729,000 in salary and deferred compensation that the CEO, Jim Gib bson makes. The CEOs of Goodwill organizations across the U.S. mutually earned $30 million (Gibson, 2013). The company received 90 million dollars government grants and $27 million from corporate and foundation grants in 2013. Goodwill offered a potential solution to a difficult situation. In doing so, the company created a problem for themselves. It could have been prevented had they offered an acceptable wage compensation to the disable employees. One way Goodwill can address the issue with the treatment of its employees is to consider the triple bottom line, which implies that successful companies must pursue three distinct values: people, the planet, and profit (Fieser & Moseley, 2012). There should be social benefit to workers and the community, environmental benefit with the implementation of sustainable ecological practices, and economic benefit only after all hidden  environmental costs have been factored in. In doing so, if Goodwill hires employees, then they should pay them minimum wage and accommodate their job assignments according to their ability regardless of their level of ability. They should also offer opportunity for raises and promotion. This ensures that everyone gets equal pay and fair treatment. One solution for the issue of greed is to put into place quality assurance representatives and to create a price list for different categories of items. This ensures that all items are priced the same across the country. The price list should have a price range, which includes the lowest and highest prices that items can be priced within their category. For example, a lamp can be priced from $3.00 to $5.00 depending on quality. This solution is possible but would require extreme communication across the nation. It would also require store representatives to ensure that these policies were followed and to ensure that all donations are inventoried properly. BP P.L.C BP’s primary response was utilitarian driven (Williams, 1973) and morally responsible (Fieser & Moseley, 2012). The company was motivated by the idea to make things right. The company’s response to set finances aside for the cleanup efforts and to assist those affected by the oil spill was their way of taking responsibility for the harm that their operations and property caused on the environment and lives in the Gulf area. The oil spill was a direct result of the company drilling in the Gulf. The thousands of gallons of oil that flooded the area affected animal life and eventually the livelihood of fishermen. BP plc was faced with managing the crisis and examining the causes of its organizational failure. At the core of the issue is a failed organizational culture. The problem could have been prevented had BP ensured that all safety measures for drilling were being used. As time passed, BP became more driven by ethical egoism. They began to act so as to maximize their self-interest. They no longer wanted to pay the families who were affected and wanted courts to reevaluate the situation to determine if they were still obligated to pay these families for the oil spill that killed and poisoned wildlife, animals and fish (Matthew, 2014). Even though the company’s initial response was admirable, they came back with an actions that demonstrated that they are truly a profit company and wanted to stop all obligation to pay those who were affected by the oil  spill. The company agreed to put $20 billion into an escrow account to pay for spill-related. They eventually paid $26 billion in issued related to the oil spill (Gibson, 2013). BP could have do more to help the situation analyzed the damage caused by the oil spill to determine lasting effects on fishermen’s livelihoods. The company can set aside more money to assist in future cleanup efforts, provide funding to local environmental services for testing and cleanup efforts. BP can also settle all reasonable lawsuits. This will help its public image and provide closure for families who lost their livelihood. The company can set aside money for environmental service agencies to test toxicity levels, population and regeneration of different animal species and any future cleanup efforts. These solutions are possible because eventually BP will have to pay more in legal fees, lawsuits or fines. These solutions offer them the chance to get ahead of the problem and be proactive Part Four: Critique of Company’s Actions Goodwill Industries International Goodwill’s actions and motivation seem to reflect self-interest and at times down right greed. The company’s response that the people should be grateful and not complain about their wages brings a negative view upon the company. According to Fieser and Moseley (2012), the moral subjectivist thinks that right and wrong is decided by what, the subject of the situation, thinks or feels is right or wrong. Even though Goodwill’s administration would have viewed the hiring of disabled people at such a low wage as acceptable, many would not. The average person working in the United States expects to receive minimum wage for working, because it is the norm or culturally relative (Fieser & Moseley, 2012). The culture of the United States would view Goodwill as taking advantage of already limited people. Ethical egoism implies that people act so as to maximize their self-interest (Fieser & Moseley, 2012). Goodwill felt that it was doing a greater good by hiring those who would not normally have gotten employment. Morally speaking, they were within the confines of the law to operate as such. Because Goodwill used the Special Wage Certificate Program, to employ disabled workers at rates cents per hour (Gibson, 2013) they were legally justified in their  actions. The law allows nonprofits and companies to get a certificate that lets them to employ disabled workers â€Å"based on their abilities† at whatever salary they find suitable, with no minimum. The company’s response should have been response was utilitarian driven (Williams, 1973). This approach would have allowed the company to view the disabled as people worthy of the respect of being treated and paid equally. Just because they â€Å"can† legally pay these employees less does not mean that it is the correct thing to do. Right and wrong could have been determined by a cost-benefit analysis. Because the company receives so many millions to help fund programs like employing disable people, they would not have lost anything financially to pay the people at least minimum wage. There could have been several benefits, such as a more positive public view, sustained donations from the public and a developing a program that actually helps the community. BP P.L.C. BP’s primary response was utilitarian driven (Williams, 1973) and morally responsible (Fieser & Moseley, 2012). The company was motivated by the idea to make things right. The company’s response to set finances aside for the cleanup efforts and to assist those affected by the oil spill was their way of taking responsibility for the harm that their operations and property caused on the environment and lives in the Gulf area. As time passed, BP became more driven by ethical egoism. They began to act so as to maximize their self-interest. They no longer wanted to pay the families who were affected and wanted courts to reevaluate the situation to determine if they were still obligated to pay these families for the oil spill that killed and poisoned wildlife, animals and fish (Matthew, 2014). (1) Moral Subjectivism In its common form, Moral Subjectivism amounts to the denial of moral principles of any significant kind, and the possibility of moral criticism and argumentation. In essence, ‘right’ and ‘wrong’ lose their meaning because so long as someone thinks or feels that some action is ‘right’, there are no grounds for criticism.à  If you are a moral subjectivist, you cannot object to anyone’s behaviour (assuming people are in fact acting in accordance with what they think or feel is right).à  This shows the key flaw  in moral subjectivism — probably nearly everyone thinks that it is legitimate to object, on moral grounds, to at least some peoples’ actions.à  That is, it is possible to disagree about moral issues. (2) Cultural Relativism Right and wrong is determined by the particular set of principles or rules the relevant culture just happens to hold at the time. Cultural Relativism is closely linked to Moral Subjectivism.à  It implies that we cannot criticize the actions of those in cultures other than our own.à  And again, it amounts to the denial of universal moral principles.à  Also, it implies that a culture cannot be mistaken about what is right and wrong (which seems not to be true), and so it denies the possibility of moral advancement (which also seems not to be true). (3) Ethical Egoism Right and wrong is determined by what is in your self-interest.à  Or, it is immoral to act contrary to your self-interest. Ethical Egoism is usually based upon Psychological Egoism — that we, by nature, act selfishly.à  Ethical egoism does not imply hedonism or that we ought to aim for at least some ‘higher’ goods (e.g., wisdom, political success), but rather that we will (ideally) act so as to maximize our self interest.à  This may require that we forgo some immediate pleasures for the sake of achieving some long term goals.à  Also, ethical egoism does not exclude helping others.à  However, egoists will help others only if this will further their own interests. An ethical egoist will claim that the altruist helps others only because they want to (perhaps because they derive pleasure out of helping others) or because they think there will be some personal advantage in doing so.à  That is, they deny the possibility of genuine altruism (because they think we are all by nature selfish).à  This leads us to the key implausibility of Ethical Egoism — that the person who helps others at the expense of their self-interest is actually acting immorally.à  Many think that the ethical egoist has misunderstood the concept of morality — i.e., morality is the system of practical reasoning through which we are guided to constrain our  self-interest, not further it.à  Also, thatà  genuine altruism is indeed possible, and relatively commonly exhibited. Utilitarianism Utilitarianism is a very simple view that matches common sense – right and wrong can be determined by a cost-benefit analysis. We must consider all the good and bad consequences when deciding if an action is right. Utilitarians disagree about what counts as â€Å"good† or â€Å"bad.† Some think that fulfilling desires is good and thwarting desires is bad, classic utilitarians think that happiness is good and suffering is bad, and pluralists believe that there are multiple â€Å"intrinsic goods† that are worth promoting. An action will then be said to be â€Å"right† as long as it satisfactorily causes good consequences compared to alternative actions, and it will be â€Å"wrong† if it doesn’t. Utilitarianism doesn’t discriminate or encourage egoism. It is wrong to harm others to benefit yourself because everyone counts. What counts as â€Å"satisfactory† will not be agreed upon by all philosophers. Originally some philosophers suggested that only the â€Å"best† action we could possibly perform is â€Å"right,† but this is an extreme, impractical, and oppressive view. Why? Whenever you are taking a shower or spending time with friends it would probably be better to be doing something else, such as helping the needy, but it is absurd to say that you are always doing wrong whenever you are taking a shower or spending time with friends. Additionally, it isn’t clear that there is a â€Å"best† course of action always available to us. There might be an unlimited number of actions we can perform and at least one of them could be better than what we choose to do. Corporate sustainability includes many normal business practices. The oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico provides a classic example of how failure to be sustainable can lead to an overall organizational failure of mandate, and a failure to serve stakeholders. BP plc was faced with managing the crisis and examining the causes of its organizational failure. At the core of the issue is a failed organizational culture. This paper examines what events and  organizational values have led to the crisis and what changes to organizational culture would be required, to avoid a repeat event and begin to create a sustainable organization. Reference: Arnold, D. H., & McKay, R. (2013). Sustainable Enterprises: Crisis Management and Culture Transformation for BP. Business and Management Research, 2(3), p16. Chicago Anand, S. (2008). Not†for†Profit Organizations. Essentials of Corporate Governance, 163-177. Matthew, J. 2014. BP Asks US Supreme Court to Halt Gulf of Mexico Oil Spill Payments Retrieved from http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/bp-asks-us-supreme-court-halt-gulf-mexico-oil-spill-payments-1450360 Rodwell, J. J., & Teo, S. T. (2013). STRATEGIC NRM lN FOR-PROFIT ANO NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS IN A KNOWLEDGE-INTENSIVE INDUSTRY. Human Resource Management in the Public Sector, 9. Williams, B. (1973). A critique of utilitarianism. Cambridge/UK.