Belief, Doubt and modern mind

Belief, Doubt and modern mind One of the oldest and most influential beliefs in human history and in the creation at large has been the belief concerning the origin of life and universe and the different theories that tried to give an explanation to the origin of life and the universe.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Belief, Doubt and modern mind specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More With the efforts to try and find solutions to one of the greatest mysteries, the ancient societies tried to come up with different suggestions that became a foundation for the creation of religion and religious beliefs, since most of the mysteries could not be easily explained and hence the human race hose to believe that there must have been an existence of a different and more powerful being that was involved in the creation and the presence of life and the universe. From the different scholars who have laid their views on the trends that have been taking place concerni ng religion and the beliefs, there are a lot of issues that may be noted, especially the fact that there have been a lot of changes in the beliefs, a factor that has led to a separation in humanity resulting to two different groups in the line of religious beliefs. One of the groups has chosen to allow change take its effect by arousing a lot of doubt in them towards religion. The other group, however, chose to stand for their religious believes irrespective of the changes around them. For example, Freud totally opposed religion stating that it is just a form of mental and psychological delusion and that there is actually no proper basis for religious beliefs. He argues that humans are not willing to go an extra mile to explain their world so they have come up with different beliefs to try and stop them from going through the pain of the explanations and hence rely on religious beliefs that are quite baseless and unfounded. However, he tends to believe that there is a lot of evidenc e to support the facts that oppose religion since there are a lot of inventions and discoveries that have been made to explain the world as it is rather than relying on beliefs. He is hence one of the main proponents of the doubt against religion and the integration of the modern mind into life (Freud 17-45). In the same way, Russell argues that religion is founded on myths rather than on facts and that there is no need to stand so strongly for what you cannot prove. Most of the arguments in the religious beliefs concerning explanations relating to the world and life are actually baseless and seem to be just a way of escapism from the reality and from trying to explain better the issues being considered.Advertising Looking for essay on philosophy? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Therefore, traditional beliefs are viewed as being outdated and irrelevant in the modern life. Therefore, there is a need to embrace moderni ty and facts that have been proven beyond doubt by scientific and technological inventions. Russell is hence a great proponent of the embracing of the modern mind that is totally opposed to the traditional ways and beliefs in religion to explain life and the world. He hence believes that the worlds may be able to run better and with more organization and coordination if all the traditional ways were evaded and new ways were adopted. The new methods would more specific and reliable as they would include scientific and technological facts that have been tested and approved (Russell 36-103). Similarly, another strong opponent of religion is Nietzsche who believes that religion is just a baseless platform that is only enjoyed by the weak and those of little understanding. This scholar argues that the only people who stick with old and outdated beliefs are those who have somehow lost and are relatively disadvantaged in the society and hence they try to use religion as a way of escape fro m the reality. However, there is a need for people to seek more knowledge and understanding of different aspects of life so as to be able to embrace life and all its occurrences in a more positive and clear manner. There is therefore no need to keep on with beliefs that have no foundation but rather there is a need to go for more elaborate and clear facts that have found proof in the modern world (Henderson 61-121). On the other side, there are many scholars who have experienced the effects of modernity in different ways and have acted under different designations in the world and yet they have given religion a consideration in their lives. Malcolm, for example embraces religion and state that it should be given its due place in life irrespective of all the changes and inventions that have been made in the world. Religion is actually a part of the society and humanity and not necessarily a theoretical approach to try and explain the world. He also states that religion is a fundament al part of humanity and that not only are human beings social beings but also spiritual beings and hence there is a need for them to believe in a supernatural, spiritual being that is in control of the universe and life and hence to be able to be fulfilled socially (Malcolm 1). In a similar manner, Joyce argues that life is more baseless without religion and that religion has a very relevant and fundamental place in the society. Modernization cannot be used as a scapegoat from religion. Scientific inventions and technology has a limit beyond which it cannot be able to explain the world and life and hence the facts indicated in religion as being the ultimate explanations to the universe still stand.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Belief, Doubt and modern mind specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Therefore, there is a need for the society to embrace religious beliefs and still maintain a place for religion even as it emb races modern life and the modern mind. Actually, there is no need to avoid implicating the whole issue on religion since there is no good reason for there to be any doubt concerning religion. Therefore, modernity is actually supposed to compliment religion rather than supplementing it (Joyce 45-83). Also, according to Lewis, religion is inevitable since life is full of conflicts between the good and the evil and that only by embracing religion can a society be able to live with soberness and order. Without religion, there would be chaos and a lot of disorderliness and life would be without meaning (Lewis 24-59). In the same way, Luther portrays a lot of religious belief in the aspects of his livelihood and his faith. He is a very influential and popular leader yet he gives religion its rightful place irrespective of the occurrences and happenings around him especially due to scientific and technological inventions. He believes that these factors should be integrated with religion so as to have a fulfilled life (Luther 1). In general, even with the many scientific inventions and the technological advancements, there is a need for there to be a consideration of the basic factors in life, of which religion is one. Religion has stood the test of time and irrespective of the changes in life and in the world, there is a need to give it a place in the society so as to have order, soberness and even factors that unite and identify the society. With these factors in place, the society is bound to be united as one and to progress even as the world progresses. Without this factor of belief, there will be a lot of advancements in the world but unfortunately the society will crumble and disintegrate under these very same forces of change. I have observed that though there have hence been a lot of changes in the society which have resulted to a lot of doubts and uncertainties on beliefs and left many confused on the issue of religion and the associated beliefs leading many to seek to apply the scientific knowledge and facts in explaining life rather than sticking with what they see as traditional and outdated, other have stuck with religion and opted to integrate modernization with their beliefs. In the same way, I propose that for the sake of the unity of the society, there should be a way of integrating religion with modernity so as to allow a multifaceted progress and development.Advertising Looking for essay on philosophy? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Freud, Sigmund. The Question of a Weltanschauung, 17-45. New York: ACM, 1932. Print. Henderson, Bobby. Open Letter to Kansas School Board, 61-121. London: John Willey Sons, 2005. Print. Joyce, James. Araby, 45-83. London: John Willey Sons, 1914. Print. Lewis, C.s. The Screwtape Letters, 24-59. London: Prentice-Hall, 1941. Print. Luther, Martin. Letter from Birmingham Jail (1963). Web. Malcolm, X. Letter From Mecca (1964). Web. Russell, Bertrand. Why I am Not a Christian, 36-103. Thousand Oaks: Saga Publications, 1957. Print.

Overstock.com E-Business Essay Example

Overstock.com E Overstock.com E-Business Essay Overstock.com E-Business Essay The e-commerce system chosen is the Overstock. com. Overstock. com is an online retailer offering a broad variety of high-quality, branded name goods at discount prices, including bedding, home decor, appliances, watches, jewellery, electronics, sporting goods, clothing and shoes. At the beginning, Overstock. com sold surplus and returned merchandise on an online E-commerce marketplace and liquidating the inventories of the failed dot-com companies at below-wholesale prices (Drummond, 2006). Recently, it has expanded to sell new merchandise and also offering manufacturers, distributors and other retailers an alternative sales channel for liquidating their inventory. In addition to its direct retail sales, Overstock. com has also offered online auctions on its website. The company’s major competitors are eBay and Amazon. com (Mann, 2005). b. The e-Marketplace. Overstock. com is considered as a private e-marketplace that is owned by a single company. In a sell-side e-marketplace, such as Overstock. om will sell either standard or customised products to individuals (B2C) or to business (B2B), this type of selling is considered to be one-to-many (Turban, King, Lee, Liang amp; Turban, 2010). Overstock. com uses the Internet to create a more efficient market for liquidation, closeout and other discount merchandise by providing consumers and businesses with quick and convenient access to high-quality, brand-name merchandise at discount prices. Besides that, Overstock. om operates the part of their website as an online auctions business, a marketplace for the buying and selling of goods and services-as well as online sites for listing cars and real estate for sale (Mann, 2005). Overstock. com is an example of virtual e-tailers that sell directly to consumers over the Internet without maintaining a physical sales channel. Virtual e-tailers have the advantage of low overhead costs and streamlined process (Turban et al. , 2010). General e-tailers, such as Overstock. om, selling a vast range of goods and services online, capitalize on the internet to offer such variety to a diverse group of customers geographically without the need to maintain a large physical storefront network (Mincedmedia, 2008). 2. Research into the e-business components. a. Organization. i. Possible internal organization functions involved the system. The internal organization of the Overstock. com is formed by few different departments. The sales and marketing department will find and retain customers by building effective customers relationships to increase the sales of the firm. Marketers of the Overstock. com uses several types of online advertising methods such as banner ads, e-mail advertising and video ads (Turban et al. , 2010). The engineering department will be in charge of the firm’s e-commerce system, online security, payment systems, IT compliance, application software, website design and maintenances and also data management. The firm’s IT engineer will be responsible to use technology expertise such as the defence and e-commerce security strategy, e-commerce payment systems, application of software and the knowledge in the web 2. to facilitate the online business of Overstock. com (Kelly, 2005). The accounting and finance department will be responsible in partnering with other county departments to leverage resources that are essential toward achieving related objectives and also ensuring that quality financial services and information is provided. In addition, the operations department does the day to day operation of the business. The operations department of the Overstock. com consist of the merchandise operational coordinator, co-op manager and system administrative. They handle all the clerical functions having to do with clearance, settlement, and execution of trades (Mincedmedia, 2008). This department keeps customer records and handles the day-to-day monitoring of margin positions. ii. Possible firms, suppliers and business partners. Part of Overstock. coms merchandise is purchased by or manufactured specifically for Overstock. com. Merchandise is obtained either by buying excess inventory, referred to as the companys direct business, or by selling the merchandise of other retailers, catalogue companies, and manufacturers on a commission basis (Mann, 2005). Among their products are handmade goods produced for Overstock by workers in developing nations. The shopping business of the Overstock. com includes both a direct business and a fulfilment partner business. Products from the fulfilment partner segment are from various industry verticals, such as florist supplies, restaurant supplies, and office supplies (Wang, Liu Koong amp; Bai, 2009). Overstock. com form partnerships with companies such as Hewlett-Packard, Kenneth Cole, Simon amp; Schuster, Samsonite, and Cuisinart. These fulfillment partners, constituting the former commission side of Overstock. coms business, drove the companys revenue growth high and following its IPO. iii. Possible business process associated with the system. The shopping business of the Overstock. com includes both a direct business and a fulfilment partner business (Overstock. com). The fulfilment partner business is one of the business process associated with the system, Overstock. com sell merchandise of other retailers, cataloguers or manufacturers ) through their Website. Overstock. om currently has fulfilment partner relationships with approximately 1,250 third parties on their website (Ferguson amp; Hlavinkha, 2007). Overstock. com also provides an online auction service on the Website. The Auctions business allows sellers to list items for sale, buyers to bid on items of interest, and users to browse through listed items online. The revenue for the merchandise returned to the Company that we sell at auction is recor ded on a gross basis. Revenue from the auctions business will be included in the fulfilment partner segment. Besides that, an online site for listing cars for sale was provided as a part of the Website. The cars listing service allows dealers to list vehicles for sale and allows buyers to review vehicle descriptions, and allows purchasers to contact sellers for further information and negotiations on the purchase of an advertised vehicle. Revenue from the cars listing business is recorded net and is included in the fulfilment partner segment. In addition, an online site for listing real estate for sale was provided as a part of the Website. The real estate listing service allows customers to search for active listings across the country. Listing categories include foreclosures, live and on-line auctions, for sale by owner listings and also broker or agent listings. Revenue from the real estate listing business is recorded net and is included in the fulfilment partner segment (PR Newswire, 2010). b. Possible technologies. i. Hardware, Software and Network telecommunications technology. Overstock. com needed equipment that would perform consistently and handle the traffic peaks that occur in the fourth quarter of the year without service degradation therefore, they chosen Foundry’s BigIron MG8 high-performance 10-Gigabit switches to power the backbones at its headquarters. Foundry is a leading provider of high-performance enterprise and service provider switching, routing and Web traffic management solutions and also an application service provider for Overstock. com, Inc. Foundry has helped them achieve the level of performance with a solution that will accommodate future growth and the payoff can be enormous in terms of customer experience and cost savings (Foundry Network, n. d. ). Overstock. com is using the OptiMine Software, a provider of intelligence software for advertising optimization. Their flagship product, OptiMine Paid Search Bid Management Application, forecasts the performance of each paid search ad placement each day and automatically sets optimal bids. Overstock. com also uses many other software such as Breach Security’s web defend and VPNs for website security purpose. Besides that, software like EDIs are used for online data interchange via emails and chat rooms; EFTs are used for the purpose of e-payment systems (â€Å"Breach†, 2009). Overstock. om uses the internet and extranet, private network that uses Internet protocols and network connectivity (VeriSign, 2008). Overstock. com uses these network and telecommunications technology to operate the online shopping, online auctions and online listing cars and real estates. It has been described as a state of mind in which the Internet is perceived as a way to do business with a selected set of other companies, the fulfillment partner companies to sell their products online (â€Å"Success St ory†, 2009). ii. Payment systems and security technologies. The payment system used by Overstock. com is majorly based on online credit card payment. In the United States, credit card holders of the American Express, Discover Card, MasterCard and Visa card are able to purchase goods online directly from Overstock. com website. ‘Bill Me Later’ is a payment method offered on the websites of many well-known merchants, including Overstock. com. The site offers credit through CIT Bank, allows purchases to be made online without using a credit card. Besides that, the payment systems of Overstock. om also have many special features, such as secure ordering/Payment system, on-line ordering shopping cart system, on-line order tracking system, customers info is confidential, gift services available and also live customer representative (Steiner, 2006). Lately, Overstock. com has integrated Auction Checkouts payment service into its auction platform. Third-party sellers on Overstock. com Auctions can now accept credit card payments for auct ion sales without having a credit-card merchant account (McDonald amp; Dunbar, 1998). One of the most important issues for a desirable e-payment system is the system should be based on well-established security principles (Turban et al. , 2010). Overstock. com uses the methods of address verification, manual review and fraud screens and automated decision models in preventing financial frauds in the payment system. For securing the networks of Overstock. com, the company uses firewalls, VPNs and IDSs and also teaming with some leading provider of application security assessment to optimize their Web security systems (Overstock. com, 2010). For example, Overstock. om chose Breach Security’s WebDefend web application firewall (WAF) to provide immediate compliance with the latest Payment Card Industry (PCI) Data Security Standard (DSS) (VeriSign, 2008). The system ensures that all web-facing application be protected against known attacks via web application firewall vulnerability scans or code review. c. Value of the e-business system. i. Tangible benefits. The ef fect of e-business in Overstock. com has brought several tangible benefits to the firm itself. The sales of Overstock. com have increased due to the some of the factors. Revenue has increased by having new customers from new markets, from existing customers due to the repeat-selling and also cross-selling (Turban et al. , 2010). By using the e-business technology, costs can be reduced as the efficiency of search and transaction costs have been improved. Marketing cost also can be reduced as we reduce time for customer service, reduce printing and distribution costs of marketing communications. Besides that, Overstock. com’s supply chain cost also can be reduced by reducing the levels of inventory and having a shorter cycle time in ordering. In addition, administrative cost also can be reduced from more efficient routine business processes such as recruitment, invoice payment and holiday authorization (Schwartz, 2002). E-commerce system allows Overstock. com to carry out businesses without the barriers of time or distance and therefore people can save time and cost. Customers can log on to the Internet at any point of time, be it day or night and purchase or sell anything one desires at a single click of the mouse. The relationship between the customers and Overstock. om also can be improved because the website also includes a support home page where the customer support, customer care contacts and also some frequently asked questions. Overstock. com also provides personalization services whereby the firm will notify customers by e-mail when there are new products, according to the specific user’s preferences (Deeter-Schmelz, amp; Kennedy, 2004). ii. Intangible benefits. The use of e-business system by the Oversto ck. com also brings a lot of intangible benefits to the organizations, individual customers and society. One of the benefits is the enhancement of products, with the e-business system Overstock. om get to expand its business by selling their own product and also selling some ‘fulfilment partnership’ products, and further on manages an online auction site and provides car and real estate listings. Besides that, the e-business system brings more rapid, more responsive marketing communications including public relations to the firm (Turban et al. , 2010). A faster product development lifecycle will also enabling faster response to market needs (Ferguson amp; Hlavinkha, 2007). A better customer service will be served as well because of the customer service home page on the Overstock. com web page. Customers can solve their problems quickly by searching the web page. The firm can also easily collect feedback from customers on products. This can assist the firm in meeting customer’s expectations (Drummond, 2006). The strategic position of the company can be improved as the Overstock. com includes value propositions such as complementarities and novelty. Overstock. com provides complementarities such as the bundling of products and services, for example, the website offers a wide variety of products and after purchasing these products, shipping services from will be also included by the company. The novelty of what Overstock. om introducing is about using innovative ways for structuring, connecting partners and fostering new market. For example, Overstock. com helps some firms to liquidate their inventories and also sell their products on the website under the â€Å"fulfilment partner† category. Besides that, Overstock. com also provides online auction, listing car and real estate for sale which encourages the fostering of new market. Overstock. com also can make out new partners and supporting existing partners more efficiently and effectively with a better management of marketing information, customer information and business partners’ information (Schwartz, 2002). ii. Alignment with company vision, mission and objectives. By using the e-business system, Overstock. com has significantly cut down the cost associated with marketing, customer care, processing and information storage. It also reduces the time period involved with business process re-engineering and customization of products to meet the demand of particular customers, increasing productivity and customer care services. Electronic commerce reduces the burden of transportation to conduct businesses and thereby raises the amount of funds available for profitable investment. It also enables efficient customer care services. Alternatively, it collects and manages information related to customer behaviour, which in turn helps develop and adopt an efficient marketing and promotional strategy (Deeter-Schmelz, amp; Kennedy, 2004). In fact all these benefits will help out Overstock. com to achieve their vision, missions and objectives. Overstock. com’s vision is to provide online shoppers with the best price and a superior customer experience with the values of honest, helpful, efficient, accountable, and trustworthy, and committed to profitability and service. The value and benefits of e-business systems in Overstock. om can help to reach its vision as the cost reduction of firms and the improved customer service and relationship will allow customers to buy products with a cheaper price and enjoy a superior customer experience (Wang, Liu Koong amp; Bai, 2009). Overstock. com’s main mission is to save consumers’ money (Overstock. com). With the e-business system in the Overstock. com, con sumers can compare and shop online for the lowest prices and also get information easily with details and demos. The standard of living of the consumers also can be improved as consumer can afford to buy cheaper goods and services. The e-business system also helps Overstock. com to achieve its mission. The objective of the Overstock. com is to become the dominant internet-based closeout solution for holders of brand-name merchandise, allowing them to dispose of that merchandise discreetly and with high recovery values, and to ultimately become a one-stop Internet-based discount shopping destination. 3. Possible e-business issues a. Security and privacy issues The lack of trust in Internet commerce applications may result in cautious business operators and clients to abstain from using the Internet for now and revert back to traditional ways of doing business. This eradication of trust being fuelled by continued stories of hacker attacks on e-commerce sites and intrusion of consumer data privacy (Marchany amp; Tront, 2002). There are two major threats faced by Overstock. com: Denial of Service (DOS) and financial fraud. DOS is still an attack in which many major e-commerce sites suffer whereby hackers rely on software and zombie PCs to launch the attacks. DOS attacks can be difficult to stop; a series of steps could be costly to combat these attacks. Overstock. com consumers use credit cards for online purchases where security and fraud are the major issues in making e-payments. Due to this issue, wide variety of tools such as address verification and other authentication services are employed to reduce the problems while considering the ease of use and the fit within the overall business context. However, it is impossible to totally overcome security and fraud issues as the victimized industries, users, and organizations are still vulnerable due to the failure of taking necessary precautions to avoid becoming a victim (Turban et al. , 2010). Consumer privacy is becoming the most common security issue following theft and fraud as top concerns in e-commerce. For example, selling consumer data without the customer knowledge or permission is the major internal threat to consumer privacy. This type of issue will be a resistance for people to participate in certain types of e-commerce transactions if the assurance of privacy is low or non-existent. If the majority of businesses are not considered to be secure, the confidentiality and integrity of the customer information will be in doubt (â€Å"Breach†, 2009). Hence, e-commerce security needs to be addressed not only at the business site with its servers/network ut also on the client side, which includes direct connected home computers. Despite of all the security and privacy issues flooding the society, security architecture of e-commerce sites has to be tailored to ensure consumer data privacy and company resources are not used to attack other Internet sites. There are guidelines for securing systems and networks to educate the consumer on these e-commerce security issues. Consumers playing their part in solving these issues are the most critical element of the e-commerce security architecture (Turban et al. , 2010). Besides that, training and orientation programs are critical to increase the general public awareness of security on the Internet. IT and financial control groups within the e-commerce site should form an alliance to overcome the general resistance to implementing security practices at the business level while industry self-regulation of consumer privacy should make recommendations to congress in order to introduce legislation on privacy issues. b. Marketing issues. One of the marketing issues faced by Overstock. com is competition. Two major competitors of Overstock. com are eBay and Amazon. om (Overstock. com, 2010). These two competitors are well known e-marketplace for the internet surfers (Mann, 2005). Overstock. com has an oligopoly market structure in which a small number of firms supply most of the market. There are only a few firms dominating the market such as big firms with large share of market sales. Firms in an oligopoly market structure are interdependent whereby they watch each other closely because of the competitive strategy. Oligopoly firms such as the Overstock. com normally use non-price competition accrue greater revenue and market share. It has a high barrier to enter the market and large existing firms enjoy economies of scale. However, new entrants tend to face higher production and set up costs. Overstock. com has to spend enormous amount of money on advertising to win and retain their customers and brand loyalty. Consumer behaviour is also one of the marketing issues faced by Overstock. com. It is difficult to create customer loyalty as it is very fast and easy for consumers to switch loyalty online. Hence, enhancing loyalty through methods such as e-loyalty programs is a must. Besides that, building trust is very difficult since people do not know or see each other. Amazon. com is using one-to-one marketing which can increase the degree of loyalty. This one-to-one marketing strategy is not exercised by Overstock. com which leaves them in the losing end if compared to its competitors (Mincedmedia, 2008). In order for Overstock. com to survive in this competitive market, their possible market strategy and segmentation is to set up their e-business system as their storefront and gain new market target and new market opportunities on online selling sites of car and real estate listing (Overstock. com, 2010).

Close reading Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Close reading - Essay Example The imagery of the ocean is perfect for this passage because that is a place of calm and peace, and perhaps Andy is subtly mentioning that her mother was like that for her. Andy never explicitly says that she misses her mother, but they way she describes it makes it like she does truly miss her. The passage above shows how vulnerable Andy is because she is in an environment that is foreign to her and this causes her to struggle over her decision to change her gender. There are many adjectives used in this passage to describe what the experience of the ocean was like for Andy. She was not really witnessing the ocean because it says only that it sounded like the ocean, but she does reminisce about a time when she traveled to the ocean with her family. The fear in Andys description of the sea could be construed as an allusion to her fear of listening to her inner voice and choosing to remain a woman. For her, the ocean is something to be afraid of because she may just enjoy herself even though she is feeling scared. Andys mother even encourages her to go into the water but she is too afraid to do so. Words like musky and rank give a description of what they ocean means to Andy, which is something to dislike. This passage is crucial as part of the story because Andy is going through a time of reflection. The wind was blowing strongly and to Andy "it sounded like the ocean, and once Andy thought she could smell salt air" (343). She did make a decision to become a man, and even change her name, but the experiences that she has gone through are perhaps making her reconsider her decision. Andy reminisces about her past life when she has the following thought: "She and her parents had gone last summer to stay for a week at a motel on the New Jersey shore" (343). For so long Andy has attempted to hide her feminine side, yet she describes her mothers feminine side in much detail when she says "that her mothers swimsuit top had come off, so that her breasts

Organizational Behavior - What Is A Learning Organization Assignment

Organizational Behavior - What Is A Learning Organization - Assignment Example As the paper stresses organizations try to involve them in single-loop learning. After having detected the mistakes, the rectification procedure depends upon past routines as well as present policies. However, the learning organization generally makes use of the double-loop learning. In this case, the errors that are detected are corrected by means of adjustment of the goals of the organization, its strategies and the standard schedules. From the report it is clear that there are five main features of a learning organization. The members of the organization have shared vision which is mutually agreed among them. People often do not follow their old ways of thinking and make use of the standard routines in order to resolve the problems or perform their task. It has been observed that the employees of the organization consider the organizational processes, interaction with the environment, activities as well as functions to be significant components of scheme of inter-relationships. It is often believed that people of the organization try to communicate openly with all the members of the organization without fear of criticism or punishment. People reduce their personal interests as well as portioned departmental interests to work together and attain the shared visions of the organization. Advocates of the learning organization envisage such organization as a remedy for three basic problems intrinsic in traditional orga nizations, such as fragmentations, competitions as well as reactions.

Compare Ode to a Nightingale and A Draught of Sunshine by John Keats Essay

Compare Ode to a Nightingale and A Draught of Sunshine by John Keats - Essay Example Much of his youth was stigmatized by poverty and poor health. He also got into an understanding with Frances â€Å"Fanny† Brawne but the relationship didn’t last long because of Keats’ failing health, although Fanny was loyal to Keats and tended him very near to his last days. It was during this period of his failing health when he wrote Lamia, Isabella, The Eve of St. Agnes, and Other Poems (1820) which included the poem â€Å"Ode To A Nightingale†. Ode To A Nightingale is a poem that was very close to Keats’ personal life. The poem was evocative of all the sufferings that Keats faced in his short-life like the death of his parents; the suffering and pain which he witnessed in people as a surgeon apprentice, the death of his brother and ultimately his own vain life spent in convalescing from the deadly disease of tuberculosis and the pangs of a relationship that couldn’t shape up. The poem speaks of the life of a nightingale in which the poet compares it with that of the life of a human being. Keats says in the poem that the life of a nightingale is blessed because it hasn’t seen the stressed life of humans which is impregnated with worries and sickness. He further says that the life of humans is so sad where beauty is not perpetual and affection is not consistent but the nightingale is above all this and its music is fluid and it is immortal. The writer wishes very hard to flee from the human world to the world of the nightingale. Keats also further wishes to succumb to death painlessly by delightfully listening to the melodious music of the nightingale. The nightingale’s song has been taken to be the ticket to the other world which is free of materialism and physicality. Keats achieved to flee to the world of the nightingale by alcohol and opium but later agreed that the sweet musical chants of the nightingale will help him transport to Utopia. â€Å"A Draught of Sunshine† is another of Keats’ poem which

Watch market situation in Singapore

Watch market situation in Singapore This report will investigate market situation and suggest a marketing strategy, which Seiko Watch Corporation will adapt to launch Seiko brand into watch market in Singapore. Although the weak of distribution channels of wristwatch products and strongly competition from rivals in luxury watch market, Seiko can benefit and reach successful due to offering a wide range of products and its brand value is the core competence. With luxury wristwatches range, Seiko is targeting to the specific segment and the right customers. Moreover, Singapore is known as a potential market along with high demand in watch market. Therefore, Seiko can take opportunities and advantages to increase purchasing power, improve brand awareness and make Singapore become a profitable market. 2.0 Introduction 2.1 Seiko Watch Corporation (SWC) Seiko is a global Japanese wristwatch manufacturer, established in 1881 and is constantly revolutionizing in the watch making field worldwide. In 1913, Seiko has started by introducing Japans first wristwatch and released the worlds first quartz watch in 1969. (Seikowatch, 2010). In 2001, Seikos watch division was found as an independent company, is called Seiko Watch Corporation. SWC is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan with its primary interest related to product planning and sales of watches for domestic and overseas market (Seikowatch, 2010). 2.2 Singapore market Today Singapore is a young and dynamic country and also attracted many large foreign enterprises. Singapore ranks as the worlds richest countries. This country is a multi-lingual, multi-racial and multi-cultural nation with overall population about 5.076 million in 2010 (Singapore Department of Statistics, 2010). Singapore economy relies heavily on trade and services (40% of national income), became a center for global trade, Asian dragons and economic centers in the region. Referring to mention this country is a tourist center and shopping of the world. Although Singapore is considered as a small market and lack of natural resources but it becomes a hub of foreign investment. Many foreign investors enter this market to do business because of its strategic location, well infrastructure, highly skilled workforce and favorable government policies (Refer Appendix 1). Singapore government invests strongly in developing education and training skills level for their people. Singapore workf orce is being highly skilled and well educated; they are well paid in the global commercial and attracting to many foreign employers (Refer Appendix 2). Therefore, Seiko can benefit from Singapore market through applying efficiency strategic marketing plans to do its business. 3.0 Corporate Objective This report will concentrate on product wristwatch of Seiko, which has its own distinguish features with different technology. Seiko watches is an excellent combination of design, color, material and price for men and women. In order to recommend suitable marketing strategy to benefit and penetrate into the fashion wristwatch market in Singapore is the purpose of this report. The specific goal of Seiko watches is to become a wristwatch leader in Singapore market. The primary objective is to reach first year 20% Singapore market share with total sales about SGD10million and continuously 40% market share for next 3 years, which get SGD20million annually. 4.0 Situational Analysis 4.1 SWOT Analysis SWOT analysis is careful evaluation of an organizations internal strengths and weaknesses as well as its environmental opportunities and threats (Griffin, 2008). Using SWOT analysis has many benefits for company itself to better understanding the main issues and general trends confronting in the wristwatch segment. 4.1.1 STRENGTHS 4.1.1.1 Seiko is a successful global branding Recently, one executive of Seiko stated We have very strong brand awareness, with around 70 per cent recognition of Seiko as a watchmaker (EzineArticles, 2010). Seiko performs innovation and continuity in its business that is why company can get success and becomes a big player along with Swatch, Rolex, Timex, Casio, and Citizen in watch industry today. Today, Seiko is in the top three brands for premium watch category (WatchMarketReview, 2010) 4.1.1.2 Seiko Financial Performance In terms of financial performance, Seiko has constantly increased its sales and profit. The watch business reported a 17.4 billion yen increase in sales to 47.3 billion yen (a 58.4% increase from the same period in the previous year) (Refer Appendix 3). Business operation of Seiko is recognized as profitable and continuity. Along with a strong finance capability, Seiko will see more opportunities to improve distribution, advertising as well as RD to benefit in Singapore market. 4.1.1.3 Seiko has wide product offerings Seiko is taking full technological advantage of quartz, kinetic and mechanical wristwatch by updating new products frequently. That is reason to explain why Seiko has 3000 watch styles (Robert and Stephen, 2000). In addition, Seiko developed its reputation from innovation of design and features, which could not found on its competitors through offering the precision optics wristwatch (WatchesForMenStore, 2010) 4.1.1.4 Seiko has global infrastructure Global infrastructure of Seiko covers a wide network, which includes affiliates and distributors in big market such as USA, UK, Asia-Pacific, and Africa (Refer Appendix 4). With a global infrastructure, Seiko can take full geographical and marketing advantage in order to build a global brand and excellent services in watch business. 4.1.2 WEAKNESSES 4.1.2.1 Weak distribution channels in Singapore market Seiko, as an upper-medium-priced brand, is sold through jewelry stores and catalog showrooms and is less likely to be found in discount or drug stores (Sak Onkvisit and John J. Shaw, 2004). However, in Singapore market, just Thongsia Company, an official distributor of Seiko is responsible for its operation (Seikowatch, 2010). The distribution of Seiko is weak at Channel Width/number of middleman and needs to improve to benefit in a potential market as Singapore. 4.1.2.1 Seiko has poor Promotion Seiko is lacking marketing and advertising activities in Singapore while it is potential market and has grown in recent years. As a result, this may lead Seiko to lose opportunities to gain market share in wristwatch business in Singapore market. 4.1.3 OPPORTUNITIES 4.1.3.1 Growth of Watch Market According to the Fashionproducts (2010), the global market currently valued at US $ 26.5 billion dollars and has grown continuously. The largest manufacturers of watches like Japanese (Casio, Citizen, Seiko) and Swatch will see more chances to increase sales and profit while the global fashion jewelry industry has been growing about 5.2% at an average compounded annual growth rate since 2000 (Refer Appendix 5). Moreover, Singapores total trade in clocks and watches reached S$3.4 billion and grew 39% from 2005 to 2008 (PuristSPro, 2010). 4.1.3.2 Increasing demand for luxury watches of Singaporean Singapore is becoming hub trade center in Asia for various brands for wide range covering high, middle and low-end products in watch market. In addition, the high-end and luxury watch products are very active in this market (Docstoc, 2010). According to Peoples Daily Online (2010), more Singaporeans are interested in and becoming connoisseurs about luxury watches. The high demand in luxury market lead Singapore becomes a watch retail growth and potential in Asia. 4.1.4 THREATS 4.1.4.1 Strong rivalry among competitors The luxury watch industry is very profitable market. However, there are many numerous barriers for new entrants to enter the market successfully. Earning profit and expanding business scale in this market is just for the actual players, who have a global network of distribution channels and a strong brand. Selling in order to bring highest profit and best benefits is still a serious issue for most companies. In luxury watch industry, Seiko is known as in top 20 watch brands all over the world about sales (Refer Appendix 6). 4.1.4.2 4.2 PESTEL Analysis 4.2.1 Political and Legal factors According to latest research by the Economist Intelligence Unit, a research body under the prestigious magazine The Economist, Singapore ranked position 30 in the chart of Global Peace Index GPI (Refer Appendix 7). Singapore corporate income tax rate has been going down in recent years and flat at 17% in 2010 (Refer Appendix 8). As a result, Singapore becomes an attractive investment destination in Asia. That is a big advantage for Seiko when profitable capability of company may be higher and costs of business operation could be reduced. 4.2.2 Economic factors According to Tradingeconomics (2010), Singapores Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the third quarter of 2010 is at 18.7% (Refer Appendix 9). The per capita GDP is high higher than most of developed countries in Asia. The economy of Singapore depends heavily on trade and services. Moreover, Singapore holds a premier position of import and export volume of watches as well as transit trade and sales in luxury watches through transacting with largest watch manufacturers in the world (Docstoc, 2010). At present, the interest rate in Singapore was last reported at 0.02 percent (Refer Appendix 10). This rate is quite low and has been decreasing in recently years. As a benefit, Seiko can consult and compare in order to borrow capital to resolve financial issues in its business operation. The inflation rate in Singapore is at 3.80 percent in November of 2010 (Refer Appendix 10). The chart shows that the inflation is increasing. It means that the purchasing power will be decreased and the market will be more fluctuated. Focusing to research and plan to maintain sales volume is necessary for Seiko. On the other hand, the unemployment rate in Singapore is at 2.10 percent in the third quarter of 2010 (Refer Appendix 11). It is a positive point in this market and the purchasing power in watch market could be higher. 4.2.3 Social and Cultural factors 4.2.3.1 Singaporean is more interested in luxury watches Based on research of Prosperity Financial Services (2010), recently, the demand for luxury watches and high-end items is increasing in Singapore market. The evidence is number of watch collectors or enthusiasts in Singapore have seen an increase until now. The overall growth in spending for luxury watches was at 44 per cent in 2007. Singaporean becomes be more knowledgeable about watch collectors. They like to buy many new innovative watches that come out in the market place along with highly established international brand names. Moreover, Singapore is also in top 5 countries with most buyer feedback in watch industry (Refer Appendix 14). 4.2.3.2 The tourists spend more to buy luxury watches in Singapore Practically, Singapore now becomes a wonderful place to choose for many tourists every year. In Singapore watch market, its not just 4.5 million locals people, who buy up these watch. According to a report of Brandchannel (2010), there is one in every five tourists shopping dollars for watches. There were 20,000 luxury watches, which tourists bought up in past year, spending up to S$ 200 million (US$ 117M). The favored watches price is between S$40 and 100. Specially, many best non-Singaporean customers paid cash for such purchases. 4.2.3.2 Living Conditions in Singapore Singapore is the most popular country for migrants. Along with the positively about economy growth rate, the living and working conditions have been growing up at that time. High living conditions and stable income lead people in Singapore pay more attention into fashion and luxury items. According to MICA (2010), Singapore was ranked as the best place to work, live and play (Refer Appendix 12). In term of Watch industry, Singapore would be a profitable and potential market for Seiko. 4.2.4 Technological factors 4.2.4.1 Growth of Internet Singapore has a strong growth of internet. There are 3,658,400 Internet users as of June, 2010, about 77.8% of the population (Miniwatts Marketing Group, 2010). In addition, Singapore has second highest Internet penetration in Asia-Pacific (Refer Appendix 13). The expanding of internet opens for most watch manufacturers the new way, new environment for doing business. The internet also can bring to Seiko and others a huge number of customer all over the world. 4.3 Competitive Advantage and Core Competencies In order to maintain strengths and catch up business trends, Seiko utilized its resources to create following capabilities and competitive advantage (Ferrell and Hartline, 2008). 4.3.1 Successful global branding In some marketplace, successful branding becomes an important source of competitive advantage through differentiating between various offerings in market, maintaining quality of products, reaching strong image, and sustaining consumer commitment. If the company could achieve and sustained, its brand would have competitive advantage (Abrol P.N and Bhalla, V.K, 2005). Seiko is a successful global brand in the watch industry over the world and its brand can offer opportunities for matching characteristics of the specific markets and can also be profitable (Marieke K. de Mooij, 2010) 4.3.2 Wide product offerings Example, Rolex and Seiko are both in the watch business. But Rolex sells a limited product line of high-priced quality watches. Seiko sells a wide variety of relatively inexpensive but innovative specialty watches with features like compasses and altimeters (Gary, D and Jean, P., 2008). Offering variety number of products is suitable business strategy of Seiko to deliver its brand into particular markets and target segment. 4.3.3 Respected Company Through associating with quality, design, and innovation products as being committed during the years, Seiko has differenced itself to produce high quality watches and became one in the largest watch manufacturers over the world. The expertise in quality manufacturing, precision engineering and design miniaturization has contributed to building Seiko brand one of the most respected, most powerful reputation in the world. 5.0 Recommendations The model from Ansoffs Matrix shown below suggests strategies for market development in business operation of Seiko in order to maintain strengths, increase brand awareness, distribution channels and market share for company in luxury watches market in Singapore. Source: Hollenesen (2003) 5.1 Segmentation Targeting and Positioning (STP) Marketing Segmentation and Targeting are two steps in the process, which Seiko must use in order to identify who is companys customer in the luxury watch market in Singapore. Market Segmentation helps Seiko to define groups of buyers with different demographic and lifestyle characteristics. Targeting is done after segmentation to compare defined segments and then choose the most attractive one to design strategies for right customer. Positioning concerns to customers perception and competitors of Seiko in watch industry and then creating a detailed marketing plan for companys business operation (William D. and Andrew Z., 2010) 5.1.1 Segmentation Targeting The Demographic factors are the most popular bases for age, gender, income, occupation, education, religion. The Psychographic factors also need to consider such as customers needs and wants, and buying attitudes (William D. and Andrew Z., 2010) . The market segmentation for Seiko in luxury watch market is adults, over 18 years of age. The target customers of Seiko are businesspersons, tourists, watch collectors, who have stable/high income and high demand in this market. 5.1.2 Positioning Market positioning can be made up of the specific value requirements or the core competencies of the target group (Scott, Mc., 2009). Highlight a feature or an attribute of product is one key of positioning (Burrow, 2006) In watch industry, Seiko positions itself as pricing bands of watch products and the positioning of Seiko brand is The World leader in watch technology during the years (Refer Appendix 15). Seikos price range and characteristics of the target segment is linked to the positioning of its brand. 5.2 Marketing Objectives and Goals Using the SMART acronym is most popular method for many organizations today. The SMART acronym is usually standing for: The Luxury watch business is at the maturity stage of product life cycle and Seiko still has potential growth in Singapore market. There are the SMART objectives for the first and the next three years of marketing plan for Seiko wristwatch. First year objective For initial year in Singapore, Seiko is aiming to reach 20% Singapore market share with total sales about SGD10million. The next 3 years objective: To achieve 40% market share for next 3 years, which get SGD20million of sales revenue annually. 5.3 Marketing Strategies and Programmes 5.3.1 Product At present, Seiko is well known for its Seiko brand. Seiko wristwatches is designed and made following its strategy of Innovation Refinement, which immediately has powerful impact to Seiko target customers (Seikowatch, 2010). Seiko wristwatch products are variety and differentiation in order to meet the expectations as well as high demand of both men and women customer in Singapore. In term of Packaging, the wristwatch products of Seiko should include the print of characteristic features and attributes to emphasize the benefits to its target customers. 5.3.2 Pricing The price of Seiko wristwatches should be developed by evaluating of the customers expectations and competitors prices on its products. Researching consumers opinions about pricing is important as well as prices of Seikos products. The following process will be the good advice for Seiko to setting price in Singapore market: In Singapore market, a competitive pricing in not advised for Seiko in this case. Seiko has a successful global branding and it is focusing on differentiation strategy, which has strongly effect on customers perception and purchasing power. Seiko has high brand awareness in worldwide watch industry along with a global network infrastructure, these creates a super value for Seiko brand. This brings to Seiko a competitive advantage and motivates Seiko to charge a premium price for its luxury watch market in Singapore. For example, The Spring Drive is the first luxury item of Seiko and it is expected to retail around $3,200 to $3,500 in international market. 5.3.3 Place Singapore is a potential market plus with high demand in watch industry. Seiko should create a wide distribution network so that products can be present in all places, regardless of the affected to the transportation system (Refer Appendix 16). 5.3.4 Promotion Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC) is known as the most popular model to conduct promotion process in business (Kolter and Armstrong, 2007). With recommendations, Seiko should focus on advertising, public relation, and sales promotion. Advertising can increase awareness of what Seiko business offers. Seiko should start its advertising campaign with knowing their target customers. Seiko is advanced to print media advertising on fashion magazines in Singapore such as Shape Singapore Edition, AsiaSpa. The outdoor advertising at bus-stop, or transit advertising on buses and taxies are also suitable for Seiko business. In term of public relation, global social media network like Facebook, Twitter seem to be free marketing tools along with a huge benefit for Seiko business. For Sales promotion, Seiko can use some subtle forms of price discounting, such as offering free financing, buy-one-get-one-free (BOGOF) or 20 per cent extra free, which will make customer to pay more attention for Seiko watches. 6.0 Conclusion In order to identify a marketing strategy effectively, which can improve brand/product awareness and help Seiko to benefit in Singapore market is very necessary. Efficiency marketing strategy will connect Seiko to right target segmentation and right customers as well as build up Seiko image in the worldwide watch industry map. Reference Printed Books: Abrol P.N and Bhalla, V.K., 2005. International Business. USA: Anmol Publications Ltd Burrow, J.L. 2006. Marketing. USA: Thomson South- Western. Chris P, Isobel D, and Robin L., 1994. International Marketing Strategy. USA: Simultaneously published Ferrell, O.C. and Hartline, M.D., 2008. Marketing Strategy.USA: Thomson Southwestern. Gary, D and Jean, P., 2008. Managing Now. USA: Houghton Mifflin Co., Griffin,R., 2008. Fundamentals of Management.USA: Houghton Mifflin Company. Hollenesen, S., 2003. Marketing Management: A Relationship Approach. UK: Pearson Education Limited. Kotler, P. and Armstrong G., 2007. Marketing An Introduction. USA: Pearson Education Ltd. Marieke, K., 2010. Global Marketing and Advertising. UK: SAGE publications Robert,G and Stephen, P., 2000. Nike culture the sign of the swoosh.UK: SAGE Publ. Scott, Mc., 2009. Marketing Communications in Toursim and Hospitality. Hungary: Elsevier Ltd Sak, O and John J. Shaw., 2004. Channels of Distribution.UK: Routledge William, D. and Andrew, Z., 2010. Entrepreneurship. UK: RR Doonelley Publications Websites: [1] Seikowatches, 2010. Corporate Message. [Online]Available at: http://www.seikowatches.com/corporate/message.html [Accessed 01 December 2010]. [2] Seikowatches, 2010. Corporate Profile. [Online]Available at: http://www.seikowatches.com/corporate/profile.html [Accessed 01 December 2010]. [3] Singapore Department of statistics, 2010. Latest Data. [Online]Available at: http://www.singstat.gov.sg/stats/latestdata.html#12 [Accessed 01 December 2010]. [4] Singapore Economic Development Board, 2010. Singapore Rankings. [Online] Available at: http://www.sedb.com/edb/sg/en_uk/index/why_singapore/singapore_rankings.html#rank_chart%22 [Accessed 01 December 2010]. [5] EzineArticles, 2010. Seiko Becoming The New Name In Hip Watches. [Online]Available at: http://ezinearticles.com/?SeikoBecoming-The-New-Name-In-Hip-Watchesid=1165815 [Accessed 01 December 2010]. [6] SEIKO HOLDINGS CORPORATION, 2009. Investor Relations. [Online]Available at: http://www.seiko.co.jp/en/ir/ [Accessed 01 December 2010]. [7] Seikowatches, 2010. Products. [Online]Available at: http://www.seikowatches.com/products/index.html [Accessed 01 December 2010]. [8] WatchesForMenStore, 2010. Seiko and Citizen Watches Reflect Japanese Watch. [Online]Available at: http://www.watchesformenstore.org/seiko-watches-japan-made/ [Accessed 01 December 2010]. [9] WatchMarketReview, 2010. Seiko. [Online]Available at: http://www.watchmarketreview.com/aug09/seiko_tete.html [Accessed 01 December 2010]. [10] Seikowatches, 2010. Global Network. [Online]Available at: http://www.seikowatches.com/corporate/global/index.html [Accessed 01 December 2010]. [11] Fashionproducts, 2010. Fashion Accessories Overview. [Online]Available at: http://www.fashionproducts.com/fashion-accessories-overview.html [Accessed 01 December 2010]. [12] Docstoc, 2010. Watch Industry Report. [Online]Available at: http://www.docstoc.com/docs/9912864/Watches-industry-Report [Accessed 01 December 2010]. [13] PuristSPro, 2010. Singapore Clock Watch Trade Association (SCWTA). [Online]Available at: http://home.watchprosite.com/show-forumpost/fi-17/pi-3468496/ti-561911/s-0/ [Accessed 01 December 2010]. [14] Vision of Humanity, 2010. Global Peace Index GPI. [Online]Available at: http://www.visionofhumanity.org/info-center/media-pack/2010-global-peace-index/ [Accessed 01 December 2010]. [15] Janus Corporate Solutions Pte Ltd, 2010. Singapore corporate income tax rates. [Online]Available at: http://www.guidemesingapore.com/taxation/corporate-tax/singapore-corporate-tax-guide [Accessed 01 December 2010]. [16] Tradingeconomics, 2010. Singapore GDP Growth Rate. [Online]Available at: http://www.tradingeconomics.com/economics/gdp-growth.aspx?symbol=sgy [Accessed 01 December 2010]. [17] Prosperity Financial Services, 2010.Growing in Watch Market. [Online]Available at: http://www.prosperitypersonal.sg/community/experts-talk/53-smart-investor/187-harvest-time [Accessed 01 December 2010]. [18] Brandchannel, 2010. Time is money in the luxury watch market of Asia. [Online]Available at: http://www.brandchannel.com/brand_speak.asp?bs_id=93[Accessed 01 December 2010]. [19] MICA, 2010. Living conditions in Singapore. [Online]Available at: http://app.www.sg/who/195/Living-conditions.aspx [Accessed 01 December 2010]. Appendix Appendix 1: Source: Courtesy of Singapore Economic Development Board

Jane Austen’s Persuasion Essay

Jane Austen is a successful classic romance novelist, one of her many novels is Persuasion, a novel that portrays love. She published six novels that all relate to the theme of love and marriage along with the consequences of making that important decision. While the novel Persuasion is romantically favourable, there are ideas presented about marriage that are not very appealing. The main story of the novel was the reunion of Anne and her shattered love with, Captain Wentworth. Though they were sincerely in love, the relationship was rejected by her father and Mrs. Russell from a financial and social class perspective. The ending of the story brings us to a beautiful happily ever after, where the engagement of Anne and Captain Wentworth takes place. The reunion of the couple, led to happiness for the two and that was all that concerned them. There are marriages however, that are quite uncooperatively performed. Some marriages usually serve the purpose of financial aid or social mobility for the significant other who is less fortunate, in this case it is usually the women. This is evident with Mrs. Clay and her desire to marry Sir Walter for wealth or Mr. Elliot and his desire to marry Anne to become baronet. Marriage in Regency England was used as a vehicle for many things (Pack 2012) . Hence, Jane Austen tells her perspective of women’s idea of why they should marry during that period of time. Overall, the ideas of marriage would be happiness; social class and wealth are what persuades most of the women into marrying in Regency England. â€Å"Why should the people be unhappy? Are there not landed gentry, country parsons, and even wealthy naval commanders for them to marry? Ruoff 2012)† For a successful marriage relationship involves the dedication and affection of both partners. During the course of the novel, the most successful and content relationship would be Anne & Captain Wentworth. Though their relationship was unapproved and disregarded by the elders of the family, they both knew from time that they were meant for each other. Jane Austen uses Anne and Ca ptain Wentworth as an example, contrary to the other marriages present in the novel to reveal her belief in the possibility of â€Å"good† marriages. The substantial ratio of love marriages to the others in the novel evidently conveys Jane Austen’s opinion on happy marriages; indicating that perhaps happiness in marriage is just a matter of chance. The love relationship with Anne Elliot and Captain Wentworth in the beginning was very strong; regardless of their separation it is still continued to be one. â€Å"You pierce my soul. I am half agony, half hope. Tell me not that I am too late, that such precious feelings are gone forever. I offer myself to you again with a heart even more your own than when you almost broke it, eight and a half years ago. Dare not say that a man forgets sooner than woman, that his love has an earlier death. I have loved none but you. Unjust I may have been, weak and resentful I have been, but never inconstant. † (Austen, page 177) When Captain Wentworth says this to Anne its describes his unconditional love towards Anne which is true, regardless of her breaking their engagement when Lady Russell discourages her from the engagement. He willingly stated the truth of his feelings which indicates the fact that he had loved nobody and thought of nobody other than Anne. In this novel Captain Wentworth was portrayed by Jane Austen as a character to show the value of men’s love. â€Å"What was most wrong to Jane Austen was to marry without at least affection if not love. Always ridiculed when young women and their mothers go into secure marriages more than love† (wit and wisdom of Jane Austen 2012). In all the novels that Jane Austen has written it showed how much of a believer she was in love marriages and how she regarded it as. Austen felt that love should be shown in all relationships within the partners. When the other reasons of marriage were looked upon it came back to the necessity of women. When looking at this argument however, men also have the equal standing and determinations regarding the decision of marriage. Throughout this story Austen points out and mocks the characters that chose to get married for security of themselves over happiness of their lives. For example, Mary was shown to be arrogant, complaining, and careless mother because she cared about social class more. Just as much as men showing their affections and happiness towards their partners, women also show the same amount of affection and happiness but in some cases women’s love towards their partner is greater than expected compared to men. If I loved a man as she loves the Admiral, I would always be with him, nothing should ever separate us, and I would rather be overturned by him, than driven safely by anybody else. â€Å"(Austen, page 61). When Louisa says this line it portrays that another character who believed in love marriages. This quote points out the depths of a women’s love in Austen’s perspective, showing her understanding of love and how it should be seen. The effectiveness of this line proves that it is not easy for a woman to accept love and it’s just as important as any other decision that you could ever make in your life. Their union, she believed, could not divide her more from other men, than their final separation. (21. 2). When Anne says this quote it shows her unconditional love towards Captain Wentworth and that there will be no other man other than him to replace her love, it also shows that even after seven years she never stopped loving Captain Wentworth still regretting her actions. This proves that women take their love seriously and that it is very strong. â€Å"†¦ is the only man she can love †¦ she in sorrow and lose beauty and youth in unveiling regret† (Kavanagh 2012). This quote reveals the sorrow of a woman when she has to part from her partner, it uses imagery to better illustrate the feelings of a woman when she goes through this. It relates to Anne because this is how she felt when she had to break the engagement between her and Captain Wentworth; and how much she regretted making that decision. Marriage is an important factor when it came to women especially when it either helps elevate their social status or bring it down. Throughout the story, Austen mainly portrays the significance of social ranking in society marriages. She pictured out which couples were more successful in the marriages, for example, the Crofts whom were well matched when it came to social status. Most of the women in this novel are put out as wanting to marry for high position in social rank. One of the marriages was Mary, it helps the purpose of marriage but it does not show the real meaning of marriage. â€Å"He thought it a very degrading alliance† (Austen, page 18). At the end of the novel, Anne and Wentworth are united but in the beginning they were disapproved especially by Sir Walter because Wentworth had no social ranking. Particularly, to the people of higher ranks, social class was tremendously important regardless of what the situation might be. No matter what the circumstance was, one does not marry below their own class. Looking at Anne’s perspective, her being a Baronet’s daughter could not marry Wentworth who was not of social rank or it was frowned upon in society and brought disgrace to the family. â€Å"Westgate Buildings! † said he, â€Å"and who is Miss Anne Elliot to be visiting in Westgate Buildings? A Mrs Smith. A widow Mrs Smith; and who was her husband? One of five thousand Mr Smiths whose names are to be met with everywhere. And what is her attraction? That she is old and sickly. Upon my word, Miss Anne Elliot, you have the most extraordinary taste! Everything that revolts other people, low company, paltry rooms, foul air, disgusting associations are inviting to you. But surely you may put off this old lady till to-morrow: she is not so near her end, I presume, but that she may hope to see another day. † ( Austen, page 14). The usage of this quote reminds Austen’s audience the consequence of marrying of low class. Since Mrs. Smith married someone of a low class she was frowned upon those who were above her like Sir Walter. â€Å"Jane Austen’s novels do affirm the value of a social order is undeniable† (Ruoff 2012). When Jane Austen wrote her novels she was extremely careful about how social class worked in marriages and the importance it gave even for the smallest issues, social class was almost a question of life or death. Marriage was undisputable. Women needed to find a husband with a high status to maintain personal status. Mary had merely connected herself with an old country family of respectability and large fortune, and had therefore given all the honour (chap 1 page 3). Mary like her father was very concerned about her personal statues and chose to get married to a wealthy and respected family. Since she was married into a family like that she was given all the honour and respect automatically regardless of what she was before. Here Austen shows that marriage in Mary’s case was to upgrade her social ranking and it shows the relationship of Mary and Charles is rather unstable and nor do they love each other. Marriage here was shown as a social mobility. â€Å"†¦by her pride, the Elliot pride† (Austen, pages 65). When Louisa said this, a believer of love marriages, suggested the pride that she had towards her husband, his family and herself. Mary is completely proud of her married life because as Baron’s daughter she held up the pride of the Elliot’s name and married into a respectful family. Even though she does not lead a happy life, she is fulfilled with the position that she has in society from the marriage she had. Jane thought the worst case scenario of a woman is not able to find a husband in her own social class and whose family cannot support her (wit and wisdom of Jane Austen 2012). Even though Jane Austen was a believer of love marriages at heart she also understood that a woman without social rank or a husband without a social rank won’t have a bright future. Especially when the woman’s family won’t support her in any way. Respect and Pride was two words that if in any case it was taken away; it is almost as life or death in most women’s lives. Mary acquired importance after becoming Mrs. Charles Musgrove; but Anne, with an elegance of mind and sweetness of character †¦ was nobody: her word had no weight†. Anne’s characteristic was portrayed as sweet, wittier and overall a better person compared to her sister Mary. However, she was barely respected or seen as a member in the family. Mary’s characteristic was portrayed as a horrible mot her, arrogant and just obnoxious and yet people respected her and treated her like an equal part of the family. Mary, being married into a wealthy and high social ranked family, secured her position as high in the social circle. Still, focusing on appearance and rank as he inserts Captain Wentworth’s name in the Baronetage. He has not changed at all (Adamson 2012). Sir Walter dismissed Captain Wentworth as a potential husband for Anne because he had no title or wealth but now Wentworth is respected by Sir Walter since Wentworth has acquired a fortune putting him stable and rich and qualified to be respected as one in the high society. This will help Anne gain everybody’s respect when she becomes dependent on Captain Wentworth and will lead a wealthy life. Throughout the past, marriages were frequently seen as a contract to protect the welfare of the family’s statues and finance, especially amongst the mist of local nobility and landlord gentlemen which is always pointed out and focused on in all her novels. Marriage was a tool and excuse to become wealthy and respected. Vastly women took the upper hand and advantage when considering marriage especially if it allows their lives to be prosperous. They are not mainly to be blamed because they have no choice, they were not educated or had the right to their parent’s wealth, marriage was the only other option for them to avoid the gutters and live royalty. Since women had no education like the men, women had no means or opportunities to make money to live their own life of their choosing. â€Å"Education has been theirs in so much higher a degree; the pen has been in their hands. † (Austen, page 172). This quote states that education was not something woman were able to grasp at all, it was given to the men at a high degree and even if women were given education and it was just to read and write a little and that was it. In today’s world the more education you had, the better the career. However, back then, women were unfortunate as the quote suggests â€Å"The pen has been in their hands. † â€Å"Men always had the upper hand and the means of living compared to the women, â€Å"You have always a profession, pursuits, business of some sort or other, to take you back into the world immediately, and continual occupation and change soon weaken impressions. (Austen, page 173. ) When Anne says this line it bluntly says the situation of women and how they can’t have a job to rely on or anything else like the men because they have no education and mostly women were not allowed to even work in England. They were expected to stay home and look after the house and the children. Hence women relying on making good marriages financial wise in order to live happily. Women in the upper classes had the leisure to educate themselves; however, they, like their counterparts in the lower classes, were not expected to think for themselves and were not often listened to when they did. Jane Austen’s novels both reflect and challenge the period’s attitudes toward women (Smith 2012). In Jane Austen’s novels, Austen was able to portray the struggles of uneducated people in that time period. The lower class women had no education at all compared to the high class ladies so their words were not considered anywhere. While the high class ladies at least were able to read and write somewhat and because of their positions in society it was easier for higher class ladies to express themselves. Regardless, of whether a family had a daughter, as the oldest child, the parent’s wealth always ended to the closet male family member and the daughter has nothing. â€Å"She had, while a very young girl, as soon as she had known him to be, in the event of her having no brother, the future baronet, meant to marry him. † (Austen, page 4). In England back in the time, had the law where the property and wealth of the family will go to the son who will be the next in line to take responsibilities of the household. Sir Walter has no heir; son, hence, putting his nephew William Walter Elliot, cousin of Elizabeth and her sisters next in line to the Baronet title. Elizabeth knowing this well enough decided to get married to him at such a young age to gain respect and wealth, proving that women have no choice regarding the family’s wealth it never went to the daughters. Hence, forcing them to marry for just wealth and prestige. â€Å"The gentlemen, the head of the house, like you father† (Austen, page 8). Ideally the head of the house back in the time and even now the men were the head of house. Austen uses a little dryness in this quote because women were in charge of looking after the house like cooking and cleaning and they were considered as â€Å"head of the house†. However, this quote says men to be the head of the house. This shows the reality of a woman’s life and goes to prove that women had limited to no opportunity regarding credit and job opportunities. Therefore, pushing forth with women using marriage has a tool to get the hold of respect and money. She realised that it was necessary for women to marry in order to avoid poverty (Gill and Gregory, 2003).

Compensation Decisions Essay

As a human resource manager, most people believe that our job is only to fix problems within the workplace or terminate employees who are not performing up to the standards of the company. Without knowing fully exactly what the position entails, this misconception will continue. Today I will be sharing a small yet important process that falls into the hands of the human resource manager. This process is the hiring process. It is a process that involves several steps to ensure that the company retains the best candidate possible to fulfill the position which is being offered. Within the hiring process fall several key components that help to ensure that the candidate will fit in with the structure of the company. Included in this process are recruiting, hiring, evaluating, and compensation. Each step has additional factors which play a part in the overall process. I will be breaking down the process by categories, and explaining in depth exactly what goes into selecting the future employee. To begin, as with any search we must first decide exactly what we are aiming to achieve. In order to narrow down the selection, as a department we must come up with key question that identify what qualities we are looking for to fulfill the position. This process can be easily accomplished by creating a task analysis. A task analysis will help to determine exactly what needs to be completed within the new position. A complied list of assignments that need to be fulfilled will help to create the job analysis. Once the task  analysis is completed, a job analysis can be formulated. With any job analysis, we aim to select the right candidate to ensure that the company’s goals will be reached. A job analysis consists of creating the job summary, identifying essential job functions, listing required knowledge, as well as experience an education, and identifying equipment needed to fulfill the position, and environmental factors. All of these components help in the process in selecting the ideal candidate. Creating a job analysis is harder than it seems. As the human resource manager, this step needs to be carefully considered, since if it is not done correctly can lead to deviance in the workplace. In an article Employee Deviance as a Response to Injustice and Task-Related Discontent, the author suggests that deviance in the workplace starts do to an injustice in task assignment which employees feel they are not treated fairly in assignments, and further they deviate from their assigned tasks. (Zoghbi-Manrique-de-Lara, 2010) Believe it or not but workplace deviance stems from a poorly written job analysis, and a job description that is not detailed enough to fully explain the associated tasks that the position requires. With this being said, a properly written job analysis can combat these issues before they begin. Once the analysis is complete, and the job description is written, we move ahead to recruitment. This process ensures that the proper candidates are selected based on qualifying information from the job description. This step helps to eliminate any persons that may not fit the qualifications of the position, as well as the needs of the company. Recruitment can be critical since many factors need to be considered. One factor would be how you chose to recruit for the position. For this position we as a department chose to recruit online by using various websites, such as Monster.com. This made the application process simple, since the candidates are able to apply at their convenience and it elevates setting aside time for both the candidate and the company to have applications accepted on site. This form of recruitment also helps the human resource department in selecting the candidates that host the qualifications that are required to fulfill the position. Recruitment strategies often help to determine if the candidates selected posses the proper skills set and knowledge that is needed to perform the job to the best of their ability. I must agree that recruitment is a tricky part  of the process. Having individuals present themselves on paper and recruiting them in person is a tough decision to make, and one that can impact the entire working environment as a whole. Once the recruitment selection has been completed, crucial factors come into pay such as compensation and evaluations. Compensation is offered upon employment, yet after an evaluation is completed, compensation can be adjusted based on performance. With the current recession, compensation decisions can be challenging, yet need to be expressed in order to keep costs down, while still retaining qualified employees. As stated in the article, Compensation Challenges, â€Å"If key business generators perceive their compensation to be inadequate, or their company to be at risk of floundering, they may take their business skills and leave† (Cotterwjan, 2009). This serves to be true, so compensation is a critical key in retaining employees. If not compensated to what the employee feels is adequate than the risk factor of the employee leaving becomes an issue. This will create more spending to recruit, and costs to train another individual for the position. That in itself does not help to cut cost but just the opposite and raises them. One way to make sure that compensation decision making is done correctly, author of Show Them the Money†¦Really! suggests that in a recession what you pay still matters. Alexander suggests that instead of undercutting now to save money, ultimately you will pay more. (Alexander, 2009) Once the economy starts to change, you will be forced to shell out more money for higher paying salaries to maintain the employees that you have, or replace the ones that have left. This holds true with any profession, even though at the current time the employers have the upper hand because people outnumber the available positions, as the market starts to change, the people will relocate to a higher paying position with another company. Deciding what compensation should be should be weighed on certain factors such as experience, knowledge of the field and qualities that they bring to the company. It should not reflect the current economy, since that is always changing. When deciding the compensation for the team for this assignment, I asked myself the same two questions that were asked in the article Learning and the Form of Compensation which were, â€Å"Firstly, do employers learn more quickly about workers who are paid for performance than  about those who are not? Secondly, d oes learning about performance pay workers depend on the specific form of performance pay?† (Hoon, 2013) After carefully reading the evaluations of the employees I thought about the previous questions. What did I really know about the evaluations in front of me? I was only able to take what was presented and compensate according to their reviews. This makes it very difficult for a human resource manager to approve any increases since what a supervisor may feel is warranted, human resources may not be able to support the increase without knowing fully what that employee brings to the table. Since in bigger businesses, the human resource department is not familiar with the backgrounds of the employees, than it becomes the responsibility of the direct supervisor to relay any pertinent information in the evaluation to support their decisions. Since starting this assignment, I would have to say that I was unaware of all the work that goes into the entire process and how many little things can affect the outcome if not done correctly. As a employee it seems easy to state that there is a new position available, but if that position is not described correctly the entire process could prove to be costly for the company, and not beneficial considering all the time and effort that is set forth in the entire process. Not only is the process time consuming, it lays out the guidelines for the position, and what is expected for the future employee. Without the proper guidelines, this process would not be as effective as it is today. Reference Alexander, J. (2009). Show Them The Money†¦.Really! Business NH Magazine , 33. Cotterwjan, J. D. (2009). Compensation Chellenges. Law Practice: The Business Of Practicing Law , 47-49. Hoon, B. (2013). Learning and the Form of Compensation. Journal of Labor Research , 79-98. Zoghbi-Manrique-de-Lara, P. (2010). Employee Deviance as a Response to Injustice and Task-Related Disconnect. Psychologist-Manager Journal , 131-146.

History Response Example

History Response Example History Response – Book Report/Review Example 4 March Chapter Response The areas of Asia, Russia and Europe all underwent transitions in ruling during thetimes of the mid-1600s leading right up to the 1800s. The Chinese had a strong ruling with the emperors of the Qing dynasty and it led to the west, joining the Russian Empires and Central Asia while the British too were expanding. Many varying factors led to the expansion of all of these areas were subject to growth, change, commercialism, trade, military influence, interactions throughout the different cultures socially and control over the land territories that had previously not been occupied prior to expansion. The Qing Empire began its development in 1636 and carried until 1783. Manchu rules had overtaken China and the Empire began to expand larger than any other group of people that currently lived on that land. This made the Qing emperors extremely influential in the decisions that were made in that vicinity. Some of the people tried to get along with the emperors that h ad helped to expand and keep it peaceful by following their policies and the Great Wall served as a division for many of these people. The Russians eventually were expanding into Central Asia and it created problems between those that fought for the religions to which they were each devoted. Trade increased between China and Europe, especially due to the Chinese handmade silk. During this time, Russia was expanding due to their fur-trapping territory. Art, fashion and luxurious lifestyles also became predominant as Russia grew under the influence of Catherine the Great who married into a Russian royal family. The British also became more commercialized and some of the customs that they had picked up in Asia were also integrated into their own lives such as playing polo and smoking from the hookah. Each of these expansions created a cross-cultural socialization that still held its own original cultures intact.

Harrison Bergeron Analyisis Essay Example

Harrison Bergeron Analyisis Essay Example Harrison Bergeron Analyisis Paper Harrison Bergeron Analyisis Paper Jasmine Wesson Equality is something people want to achieve but seems too difficult. Equality seems difficult because its such a complex and high goal for everyone to reach. In Harrison Burgeon a fictional short story by Kurt Evensong, total equality has been achieved. The small home of George and Hazel Burgeon, equality had been reached in 2081 but doesnt seem quite right. Throughout Kurt Evensongs short story, and the teaching of total equality he demonstrates how too much of a good thing could go terribly wrong. In Harrison Burgeon total equality Is clearly demonstrated throughout the entire short story but it isnt truly equal. The Handicapper General (Para. 1) helped achieve equality. The equality wasnt true equality though, if someone was smarter than the average person they were required by law to wear a metal radio in their ear that way If you started thinking about something above average they would send a sound to cut off your talking. (Para. ) Everyone was also required to wear a bag full of lead balls around their neck but not everyone carries the same weight as other people. The dancers on television had to wear masks so no one would know how pretty or ugly you were and the prettier you were the more ugly of a mask you were required to wear. The television announcers also had to change the way their voices sounded so their voices wouldnt be attractive. (Para. 39-40) Even though It may seem as if there Is equality in the town there isnt. : Hazel, Georges wife doesnt have to wear a metal handicap In her ear, the ballerina had to wear weights that were worn by 200 pound men, and the Handicap General Is higher than anyone else, which makes the equality Not even truly exist. In Harrison Burgeon the handicap general represents the fairness of society and demonstrates how the view of total fairness is in control by only one person and everyone counts on them regardless of what they themselves think about something. (election. Due/faculty/ Suddenly/sample_essays. Tm) Throughout the start of the short story the message of strength and weakness shines through. When everyone Is equal there Is strength because no one Is In constant compound with anyone else. (Para. 1) Among that strength there is also weakness because not everyone is full equal, not everyone aeries the same weight, wears a metal radio in their ear, and not everyone can become a handicap general. There is also weakness shown when Harrison- George and Hazels son, t akes off all his handicaps and the pretty ballerina dancer takes off her mask. The weakness Is shown because they then become UN-equal and Harrison who represents the Individuality of the world, destroys the societies total equally The year was 2081 and everyone was finally equal When Harrison and the dancer become unequal on national television then the weakness comes through more than the strength of the city does. When strength and weakness is shown throughout the fictional short story there is also the presence of knowledge and ignorance. The knowledge In the story comes when the society found a solution to the total equality problem and everyone was equal to one another. There Is also Ignorance there due having the same weight as Harrison or one another, not everyone wearing metal radios in their ears, etc.. The real ignorance in the story is within the dangers of governmental controls. If the government could easily control how we look, what we see, what we hear then the government is ignorant to think that that is the solution to total equality because then there is no knowledge about equality its Just more rules and governmental control. If there is more ignorance than knowledge then the utopia becomes nothing but a living hell. (redwoods. Due/instruct/Johnston/English B) Even though everyone searches for total equality, it could lead to nothing more but no true equality and even more governmental control; causing everything to crumble before it could really even begin. : elation. Due/faculty/suddenly/sample_essays. HTML redwoods. Due/instruct/Johnston/English B Harrison Burgeon by Kurt Evensong

Should the state or federal goverment put laws into place to prevent Research Paper

Should the state or federal goverment put laws into place to prevent bullying - Research Paper Example Furthermore, the consequences of bullying are even more lethal than the imagination of the bullies and their victims (Lines, pp. 19-20). More than 86 percent of the school shooting has been linked to the past improper treatment and bullying of the students. Furthermore, 10 percent of school droppings take place due to bullying (Rigby, pp. 21-22). Suicide rates amongst children under the ages of 14 are low but over the past couple of decades, they have been rising up. There is enough evidence to link these suicides with bullying of children (Barclay & Butler, pp. 6-10; Mattern, pp. 165-167; Rooney, pp. 171). The above-mentioned paragraph is just a glance at the statistics related to bullying of children and without any doubts; it does not paint a desirable picture. Over the years, bullying has become a common phenomenon in schools and our societies, communities and neighborhoods (Macfarlane & McPherson, pp. 85-89). Parents, schools, NGOs and others have played their part in trying to prevent bullying; however, it is time for the federal government to intervene for solution of this problem. Therefore, the major agenda of the paper could be defined as â€Å"Rather than becoming a silent bystander to bullying, it is the moral and legal responsibility of the federal government to intervene by making laws that could prevent bullying so that our children, who are the future of the country, could be saved from catastrophic results.† According to its definition, bullying refers to the aggressive behavior with which someone intentionally and repeatedly causes the â€Å"target†, pain, and discomfort. Bullying can be emotional, physical, or verbal. â€Å"Targets† or the subjects of bullying may face the same based on their race, sexual orientation, disability, personality, religion, gender, intelligence and others (Fort & Stevens, pp. 230-231). Bullying may take place in all possible settings with human contact such as schools, high schools, colleges, universities, churches,

Effective Leadership Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Effective Leadership - Research Paper Example This definition makes leadership accessible to everyone since it does not restrict it to the formally designated leaders in a group. Effective leadership is hard to realize. Although it is possible to give an unending list of leaders, this paper proves that a limited number of these many leaders eventually realize effective leadership. Effective leadership has been the focus of many of the individuals enlisted as leaders. However, John and Joseph (2009) collected data and their statistics shows that less than 30% of the leaders realize this long-term goal. It involves influence, as its principal concern is how the leader affects followers. Influence is the sine qua non of leadership, without which leadership does not exist. Groups are the context through which leadership takes place. Leaders engage themselves in influencing individuals in a group to a particular common purpose (Minja, 2009). The group in question can be a small task group, a community group, a faith based group or a large group encompassing an entire organization. Therefore, defining leadership as a process does not encompass training programmes, which teach people to lead themselves since the group aspect in leadership does not exist. Leadership can be categorized either as good or bad. Of all management concepts, good leadership is the most investigated but least understood by many people. In defining effective leadership, Barbara & John (2005) asserted that it must incorporate dialogue, conviction and delegation rather than issuing orders. In this regard, the two authors argue that genuine leaders recognise and achieve agreement to an exciting and challenging vision. They do not only promote performance of individuals but also of complete groups and obtain commitment within their own working group (Lok & Crawford, 2009). Effective leaders know what they want: they communicate their intentions efficiently, empower others and know when they should keep the way