Daughter from danang Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Daughter from danang - Essay Example The movie depicts how at every stage of her life, Heidi had to face untold miseries on account of circumstances related to of her birth, abandonment by the parents, and the cultural clashes to which she was exposed to. Her destiny was linked to the destinies of two nations. On being sent to America with the consent of her mother, primarily for safety considerations in Vietnam, she was adopted by a single mother, in a township of Pulaski, Tennessee. As she reached adulthood, her relationship with the adopted mother deteriorated and she began intense search for her own mother. She succeeded in her efforts, got a link to her whereabouts and came to know that she lived with her half-siblings. Heidi decides to visit her at the native homeland, notwithstanding the deep cultural differences. The plot of the movie is not smooth-sailing one, but full credits to the producer, they maintain a non-judgmental approach and it involves several questions for which satisfactory solutions are difficul t to find. Her birth mother has abandoned Heidi, and it is not expected of her to show love and sympathy for her.

An Analysis of The Clod and the Pebble by Sir Francis Blake Essay Example for Free

An Analysis of The Clod and the Pebble by Sir Francis Blake Essay â€Å"The Clod and the Pebble† Sire Francis Blake compares selfish and unselfish love through interesting and thought provoking interpretations. These viewpoints are obvious through Blake’s indication of their states of innocence and experience. His first entity, which is a clod, says, â€Å"love seeketh not itself to please†(Blake 3). The second interpretation, which is given in the form of a pebble, reasons, â€Å" Love seeketh only Self to please†(Blake 11). The clod is depicted as a selfless, passionate emotion whereas the pebble is a vain, arrogant and selfish sentiment. We can assume that the author has a lot of experiences when it comes to love, possibly writing this poem in a period of romanticism, but cannot assume he is the speaker. The different perspectives of love in the poem lead the reader to believe that there are two speakers. The Clod may perhaps be of a feminine viewpoint, which is understandable after reading â€Å"Nor for itself have any care† and â€Å"Trodden with cattle’s feet†, where love is unselfish and sacrificial (Blake 2). The pebble gives off a sense of authority gained from experiences while it mocks the innocence of the clod. The abrupt use of â€Å"But† provides a change to the sweet and harmonious tones of the first stanza, while the phrase â€Å"a pebble of the brook† represents it is a hard and unmovable object, learned from its experiences. Specific words such as â€Å"care† used by the clod and â€Å"bind† used by the pebble are what make the feminine/masculine tones understandable. The beautiful and artful personifications of the content clod and pompous pebble create a clear understanding in contrasting the representation of the selfishness and selflessness of human nature in love.

DNA Structure: DNA Replication RNA Synthesis Protein

DNA Structure: DNA Replication RNA Synthesis Protein DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is the genetic material of a cell. It contains information about an organisms cell structure, function, development and reproduction. DNA must be able to replicate quickly and correctly so that the daughter cells have the same genetic information as the parental cell. DNA must also be capable of change. This provides variation among different generations and was the key factor for evolution to occur. DNA is a polymer (made up of many units) of nucleotides. Each nucleotide contains a five-carbon sugar (there is an extra hydroxyl group in the sugar for RNA), a nitrogenous base, and a phosphate group. There are two classes of nitrogenous bases, purines and pyrimidines. Each purine pairs up with one pyrimidine. Adenine and guanine are purines (double ring structures), while cytosine, thymine (DNA), and uracil (RNA) are pyrimidines (single ring structures). Nucleotides are linked together by a covalent bond between the phosphate group of one nucleotide and t he 3carbon of the sugar of another nucleotide. These 5-3 linkages are called phosphodiester bonds. These bonds are very strong and provide a good backbone for the structure of DNA. Experiments were done by Watson and Crick, and Franklin and Wilkins provided a three-dimensional model of DNA- the double helix. It is composed of 2 chains that are anti-parallel to one another (rope ladder that is twisted). Each step of the ladder is composed of one purine, ad one pyrimidine (adenineÆ’Â  thymine, guanineÆ’Â  cytosine). The central dogma of biology is DNAÆ’Â  RNAÆ’Â  protein. DNA, which contains the genes that are expressed, has to be transcribed and translated first. DNA is transcribed into mRNA, which codes for a specific protein and is assembled through ribosomes. Proteins are synthesised by amino acids. The order of nucleotides in DNA determines the amino acids used in synthesising a protein. Three nucleotides (codon) code for one amino acid; there are 64 different pos sibilities of codons. There is a total of 20 amino acids, which means that more than one codon codes for the same amino acid. There are also start codons to begin protein synthesis and stop codons to terminate protein synthesis (Russell, 9-19). Hypothesis: I predict that we will be able to understand the structure of DNA and RNA after this experiment. I predict that I will achieve a better understanding of protein synthesis after this experiment. Methods: We obtained 60 white beads (deoxyribose sugar), 60 red beads (phosphate group), 15 orange beads (adenine), 15 green beads (guanine), 15 blue beads (cytosine), 15 yellow beads (thymine), and 30 clear connectors (hydrogen bonds). We assembled 60 nucleotides by attaching a red bead (phosphate group) to the white bead (deoxyribose sugar) in a 5 position. We attached a nitrogenous base bead (orange/green/blue/yellow) to the 1 position of the deoxyribose sugar (white bead) We constructed a single-stranded polynucleotide chain by attaching the phosphate group of one nucleotide to the 3 end of another deoxyribose sugar (this strand contained 30 nucleotides- remember to add the nitrogenous bases in a random order). To form the typical double stranded DNA molecule, an antiparallel single strand must now be constructed to bond with the initial strand. The remaining 30 nucleotides were attached in the same manner as mentioned above. They were placed antiparallel to the other strand, but we made sure that the nitrogenous bases across each strand were complementary (A bonded with T, and G bonded with C). Connectors were placed between the bases to represent hydrogen bonds. We then simulated DNA replication by first forming an origin of replication. Beads were obtained and attached in a 5Æ’Â  3 direction. 2 DNAs were synthesised (each with one parental strand and one new complementary strand), which showed the semiconservative model. We then simulated RNA synthesis (transcription). We obtained 24 pink beads (ribose sugar), 24 red beads (phosphate group), 6 orange beads (adenine), 6 green beads (guanine), 6 blue beads (cytosine), and 6 purple beads (uracil). We also obtained a template DNA strand. We constructed the RNA nucleotides in a similar fashion that we made the DNA nucleotides. We followed the DNA strand and attached the RNA nucleotides accordingly (complementary to the template strand of the DNA). We then simulated protein synthesis by encoding the mRNA (translation). We positioned the RNA horizontally in a 5Æ’Â  3 fashion and uncoded the RNA. 3 nitrogenous bases make up one codon. We wrote down the different codons and using a table, figured out the amino acids required to make the protein. Lastly, we constructed the polypeptide by connecting the different amino acids. The chain kept building as the chain moved from the A site to the P site to the E site. Results: DNA Strand- 5-ATGGCTAGTATAGGTTGCCATCGATGGCAG-3 3-TACCGATCATATCCAACGGTAGCTACCGTC-5 RNA Strand- 5- AUG-GUC-UAC-CUA-ACG-CCG-GAU-UAG-3 Coding for- f-Met-Val-Tyr- Leu-Thr-Pro-Asp-termination Conclusion: DNA is very important for life. It can replicate well, which means that the next generation will retain the characteristics of the parents. It is capable of change, which means that it provides for variation and was crucial for evolution to occur. It also codes for proteins that help express genes and traits of the organism. In this lab, we simulated DNA structure, replication, RNA synthesis and protein synthesis. Each one of these processes is essential to human life and a mutation in any one of the processes could lead to death. In DNA, adenine bonds to thymine via two hydrogen bonds, while guanine bonds to cytosine via three hydrogen bonds. In all DNA, the amount of adenine should equal the amount of thymine, and the amount of guanine should equal the amount of cytosine (1:1 ratio of A:T and G:C). However, the differentiation in the ratio of the adenine/thymine pair to guanine/cytosine pair varies greatly among organisms. DNA replicates semi-conservatively. This means that during replication, the strands separate, replication occurs and when the two daughter DNAs are formed, each one contains one parental strand and one new strand. Lastly, in this simulation, we did not have post-transcriptional editing where introns are excised. Each gene codes for a polypeptide which could have various function depending on the amino acids that synthesised it. This experiment was very helpful in the sense that it helped us realise how complex the processes of replication, transcription and translation are.

Huckleberry Finn :: essays research papers

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Attempting to make decisions is difficult when one experiences doubt in one’s mind or when one’s upbringing goes against it. In “Huck Finn'; by Mark Twain , the main character Huck has to first confront doubts and then form plans to surmount an impossibly tragic end. These efforts demonstrate that one’s upbringing and morals are sometimes insufficient to cope with the immense problems that arise along a journey, and that the decisions one must make must come from the heart. During this story Huck solves many problems by listening to his heart. Although he believes that he is doing wrong and that people and god will look down upon him, he is actually doing what is morally correct.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  At the beginning of the story Huck runs away from his friends and family to Jacksons Island. On Jacksons Island he is confronted by Jim who is a runaway slave. Jim being an African American is looked down on by society. When Huck is faced with the decision of choosing to rat on Jim or keep his secret Huck has a hard time. He knows subconsciously that Jim has done something wrong. Yet he follows his heart and decides to keep Jims secret. He says'; people would call me a low-down abolitionist and despise me for keeping mum';. Huck here shows that he isn’t only running away form home but He’s running away from everything that home stands for. This happens many times in the story. Huck starts to see Jim as a friend rather then a black man. When Huck plays the prank on Jim after the raft gets separated Huck apologized to Jim. He knew society would have never apologized to a black person. But now Huck listens to his heart not what society has taught him.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Many times in the book Huck actually comes face to face with telling on Jim but in the end doesn’t. The first incident occurred while being faced by two men looking for a runaway slave. He was directly faced with the choice of “doing the right thing'; or turning Jim in. He decides to do the wrong thing and tells the men he’s traveling with a white man. The next time is when he writes the note to Miss Watson telling her about Jim. After thinking he says “seem to strike no places to harden me against him, but only the other kind';.

Nik’s CATIA V5 Tips and Techniques

The following is an archive of Nik’s CATIA V5 Tips and Techniques. To unleash the full functionality of CATIA V5, attend an AscendBridge CATIA Course or request a one day mentoring at your site. Call 1-888-326-TEAM or email [email  protected] com #1 Tips and Technique Q: Do you know how to convert a 2D drawing view (in dwg format) into a 3D Part using Advance Part Modeling options of CATIA V5? A: You Can use any 2D view with various drawing objects (even in dwg format) to create a 3D Solid. Copy the 2D view from CATIA drafting screen into Sketcher as sketch. As the sketch contains multiple Profiles you can not make a solid feature by simply selecting the given sketch, as a error prompts: Several Open Profiles If you select Yes the Feature definition box appears. Right click in blue area in front of ‘Profile/Surface Selection' Click on ‘Go to Profile Definition’ in Contextual menu Profile Definition Dialog Box opens Select the Part of Sketch you want to use for that feature. You can go on creating other features using same sketch but different sub profiles to make the final 3D Part. This method also helps in reducing the number of sketches in your Part history tree while modeling complex solids and better management of features using sketches. AscendBridge Solutions Inc. 1-888-326-TEAM www. ascendbridge. com Nik’s CATIA V5 Tips and Techniques #2 Tip and Technique Q: Did you know that designers can key in values in combination of units or in formulas in CATIA V5 dialog boxes? A: You can key in values in any CATIA V5 dialog box in the following formats irrespective of the Standard set units. For example if the length Units are set in mm and you are keying in the value for PAD length (as shown in Fig-1A) You can key in 10in and the PAD will measure 254mm (as shown in Fig-1B) AscendBridge Solutions Inc. 1-888-326-TEAM www. ascendbridge. com Nik’s CATIA V5 Tips and Techniques Also try to key in ((5in*6)/4)+9mm+500micron and click Preview the PAD will measure 200mm. The software automatically computes the entered value (even in the form of complex formula with combined units) equal to the units set in the CATPart and generate features with correct computed measurements. AscendBridge Solutions Inc. 1-888-326-TEAM www. ascendbridge. com Nik’s CATIA V5 Tips and Techniques 3 Tip and Technique Q: Do you know how to create a Hole with reference to center of another Hole in a Block or Plate using hole feature in CATIA V5? A: You can create a Hole with reference to center of another Hole in a Block or Plate using HOLE feature in CATIA V5 by following this procedure: †¢ †¢ †¢ HOLE Command Select the face of Block / Plate Select the Sketcher Icon †¢ †¢ Rotat e the view Create two constraints Horizontal Measure & Vertical Measure between Axis of previous hole and the Center Point of new Hole †¢ †¢ Exit the Sketcher Work-bench and OK in Hole Dialog-box. New hole located from center of previous hole is created. AscendBridge Solutions Inc. 1-888-326-TEAM www. ascendbridge. com Nik’s CATIA V5 Tips and Techniques #4 Tip and Technique Q: Do you know how to create multiple corners on a complex Profile, of equal radius and related to each other in CATIA V5 Sketcher? A: You can create multiple corners on selected points on a Profile in one step by following this procedure: †¢ Draw a required complex Profile in CATIA V5 Sketcher (as shown in Fig-1) †¢ Multi-select all the points on the Profile where the corners are required and select the Corner icon. Key in Radius value (as shown in Fig-2) The corners are created at all the selected points on the profile with given radius. (as shown in Fig-3) †¢ For modifying the radius of all the corners in one step just double click on first selected corner (without f(x) symbol) and key in the new value all the corners get updated to new value. The all corners created on the profile with this method are related to the first selected corner with a formula. But if required the formula can be modified or deleted in order to change the radius of any corner independent of the others. AscendBridge Solutions Inc. 1-888-326-TEAM www. ascendbridge. com

Free Essays on Death Is Only A Matter Of Time

Death is only a matter of time In Edgar Allen Poe’s â€Å"The Masque of the Red Death,† he uses the descriptiveness and details of the story to tell about a plaque that is taking over a community and how the individuals try to hide and seclude themselves from this plaque to avoid its tragedy of death. In the â€Å"Masque of the Red Death,† Poe uses symbols to represent death in its grueling dà ©cor and that it takes precedence over no one, time is our only virtue that separates us from death. In the beginning of the story, Poe describes the Red Death â€Å"Blood was its Avatar and its seal-the redness and the horror of blood. And the whole seizure, progress, and termination of the disease, were the incidents of half an hour† (302). This brought fear among the people, causing them to avoid contact with any other person with the hopes of not contracting this disease. This is about people doing anything they can to avoid something that would bring their ultimate death. Prince Prospero a high ranked individual notices that the plaque was consuming thousands. With the hopes of keeping the plaque on the outside, he invites certain people of his court and higher standings to isolate themselves within his castle. This was an attempt to try to cheat Red Death with the thought of keeping everyone infected outside so that it would not breech the walls of the castle. Yet, not knowing that walls of iron or locked doors would never stop the fate of Red Death, they continued with their isolation. After several months in the castle, the Prince assembles a Masquerade Ball. This could symbolize a celebration that they had cheated Red Death to that point in time. This Masquerade involved seven different rooms with each its own color. These rooms could symbolize the stages of life from beginning to end with the last room being death related to the color of black and red. Poe describes this ball very vivid; they dressed in grotesque costume... Free Essays on Death Is Only A Matter Of Time Free Essays on Death Is Only A Matter Of Time Death is only a matter of time In Edgar Allen Poe’s â€Å"The Masque of the Red Death,† he uses the descriptiveness and details of the story to tell about a plaque that is taking over a community and how the individuals try to hide and seclude themselves from this plaque to avoid its tragedy of death. In the â€Å"Masque of the Red Death,† Poe uses symbols to represent death in its grueling dà ©cor and that it takes precedence over no one, time is our only virtue that separates us from death. In the beginning of the story, Poe describes the Red Death â€Å"Blood was its Avatar and its seal-the redness and the horror of blood. And the whole seizure, progress, and termination of the disease, were the incidents of half an hour† (302). This brought fear among the people, causing them to avoid contact with any other person with the hopes of not contracting this disease. This is about people doing anything they can to avoid something that would bring their ultimate death. Prince Prospero a high ranked individual notices that the plaque was consuming thousands. With the hopes of keeping the plaque on the outside, he invites certain people of his court and higher standings to isolate themselves within his castle. This was an attempt to try to cheat Red Death with the thought of keeping everyone infected outside so that it would not breech the walls of the castle. Yet, not knowing that walls of iron or locked doors would never stop the fate of Red Death, they continued with their isolation. After several months in the castle, the Prince assembles a Masquerade Ball. This could symbolize a celebration that they had cheated Red Death to that point in time. This Masquerade involved seven different rooms with each its own color. These rooms could symbolize the stages of life from beginning to end with the last room being death related to the color of black and red. Poe describes this ball very vivid; they dressed in grotesque costume...

Native American Civ. essays

Native American Civ. essays There is much significance in this statement, Glorying in their new strength, the Spaniards were eager to outstrip the Portuguese rivals in the race to tap the wealth in the Indies. First of all, at the time Portugal controlled much of the African coast and thus controlled the gateway to the round-Africa water route to India. They had established trading posts, in which they sold both gold and slaves, alongside much of the African coastline. The Portuguese had created a system in which they forced the slaves to work the sugar plantations, which they had established on several of the African islands, right off the mainland. Despite their success in Africa, the Portuguese went farther southward in order to find a water route to Asia. In 1488, Bartholomeu Dias made it to the southern tip of Africa, and ten years later Vasco da Gama reached India, essentially the Indies, which is derived from India; and returned home with a small but rather fascinating portion of jewels and spices. At the same time, Spain was very excited due to the marriage of Ferdinand of Aragon and Isabella of Castille, as well as the exiling of the unfaithful Muslim Moors from Spain. This relieved Spain greatly because there had been Christian-Islamic warfare for centuries. Therefore, Spain had a surge of strength and were apt for the challenge to outstrip Portugal in the race to tap the wealth in the Indies. However, by the time Spain reached the Indies, Portugal already had control of the Indies, to the south and east. Therefore Spain was forced to go west. When the Spaniards went westward, they discovered the New World, or America. This discovery consequently led to increased European expansion in the west. Therefore, the key significance of Spains sudden surge of strength is the discovery of the New World and well as increased European expansions of countries out west. ...

Free Essays on Middle East

Conflict on Holy Ground The Arab-Israeli conflict is one of the most prolonged and bloody conflicts in not only modern history, but in the ancient world as well. The roots of the conflict, as well as the arguments on both sides, are as diversified and complicated as the conflict itself. The conflict between the Arabs and the Israelis has gone on for many years with both sides believing the other to be the cause. The aftermath of the First World War saw the worlds first foreshadow of things to come. Many Arabs believe that the existence of Israel is an act of war. Therefore making the mind set that permeates throughout the region irrational at best. To better understand the conflict. The history of the two parties involved must first be understood. To better understand we must first think of the conflict as a clash between two separate but equally powerful ideologies, the Arab or Islamic and the Jewish or Zionist ideology. Arabs have a long history in the Middle East but that history is not easily explained. Before there was Islam and the area was unified the Arabs were conquered and ruled over by various groups, including the Romans at one point (Glubb 23). At this point in history, most of the Arabic peninsula was inhabited by nomadic tribes who raised various livestock (Glubb 25). There are few accurate historical accounts about the Arabic people. Most of what is known about the Arabic people in that region comes from travelers such as Herodotus, who although he a great historian, did not fully understand the peoples way of life, and therefore could not accurately paint a picture of what their lives were like (Payne 3). The accounts that he does give are not to be taken as accurate truth about the land or the people. One account of the landscapes demonstrates Herodotus’ lack of knowledge on the subject; he says, â€Å"frankincense trees are always surrounded by a swarm of winged and bright ly colored serpents† (Payne 3). The fac... Free Essays on Middle East Free Essays on Middle East Conflict on Holy Ground The Arab-Israeli conflict is one of the most prolonged and bloody conflicts in not only modern history, but in the ancient world as well. The roots of the conflict, as well as the arguments on both sides, are as diversified and complicated as the conflict itself. The conflict between the Arabs and the Israelis has gone on for many years with both sides believing the other to be the cause. The aftermath of the First World War saw the worlds first foreshadow of things to come. Many Arabs believe that the existence of Israel is an act of war. Therefore making the mind set that permeates throughout the region irrational at best. To better understand the conflict. The history of the two parties involved must first be understood. To better understand we must first think of the conflict as a clash between two separate but equally powerful ideologies, the Arab or Islamic and the Jewish or Zionist ideology. Arabs have a long history in the Middle East but that history is not easily explained. Before there was Islam and the area was unified the Arabs were conquered and ruled over by various groups, including the Romans at one point (Glubb 23). At this point in history, most of the Arabic peninsula was inhabited by nomadic tribes who raised various livestock (Glubb 25). There are few accurate historical accounts about the Arabic people. Most of what is known about the Arabic people in that region comes from travelers such as Herodotus, who although he a great historian, did not fully understand the peoples way of life, and therefore could not accurately paint a picture of what their lives were like (Payne 3). The accounts that he does give are not to be taken as accurate truth about the land or the people. One account of the landscapes demonstrates Herodotus’ lack of knowledge on the subject; he says, â€Å"frankincense trees are always surrounded by a swarm of winged and bright ly colored serpents† (Payne 3). The fac... Free Essays on Middle East The Middle East has been a hot bed for political unrest since the end of World War I, when the Western Powers initially divided it up. Today is no different. Saddam Hussein, leader of Iraq, is a constant threat to the countries that surround him. The United States’ top officials believe that he has weapons of mass destruction, and he has shown that he has the will to use them. However, going to war unilaterally is not the best route for dealing with Hussein. It will only further destabilize the region, distract efforts against the war on terrorism, and cost both too many lives and too much money. Iraq is a country located in south-west Asia. It has a population of 22,345,000 and the official language is Arabic. It is not a third world country, and 70% of the country is urban. The main import is military weapons and the main export is oil. Since 1968, Iraq’s government has been a dictatorship, the Baath Party, led by Saddam Hussein. They have managed to eliminate any opposing political activity. In 1990, Iraq invaded Kuwait, a small neighboring country that is rich with oil. Kuwait was a US ally and produced much of the petroleum that was consumed by the United States. The United Nations demanded that Iraq withdraw from Kuwait, but they did not. A coalition of 39 countries sent troops and aid to Kuwait, including the United States, which sent 100,000’s. The other leading countries were Egypt, France, Great Britain, Saudi Arabia, and Syria. The war lasted for just over one month. Following the war, US troops entered North Iraq, where they helped fleeing Kurdistans. The Kurds had tried to rebel against the Iraq government while they were struggling mightily against the UN coalition, but they were put down. Iraq suffered greatly from the war. It is estimated that 100,000 Iraqis died, as opposed to only 370 coalition troops. However, Saddam Hussein stayed in power because it was feared his removal would hurt the c...

Global marketing strategy and product launch Essay - 1

Global marketing strategy and product launch - Essay Example The report concludes by highlighting the possible problems likely to be encountered in the expansions and goes further in giving the recommendations on the overcoming these challenges. AUDIT Company background Tesco PLC is one of the leading companies among the food retailers in United Kingdom with a market share of 15% , the company not only sell food items but also other products including clothing, housewares , alcoholic beverages and gasoline. This company has its major markets in United Kingdom, Wales and Scotland where it has over 550 supermarkets where about 250 are superstores, it also operate in other countries under the various brands and a major independent gasoline provider in United Kingdom and because of its expansions of its operations and market it has emerged to be among the top multinational companies in United Kingdom. Tesco Stores limited was found in 1932 and has grew rapidly and for a number of decades it has grew rapidly, this was attributed by the acquisition of various grocery chains and the development of superstores which offered a variety of food and other non-food goods which were relatively less expensive. During 1970s the company has a slow because of the intense competition from other companies like J.Sainsbury PLC. There were price wars between the two Companies and this led to many small retailers driven out of the market, the strategies applied were mainly to win customer trust and loyalty. In 1983 it change its name to Tesco PLC and thereafter collaborated with Marks % Spencer and developed major shopping centres across other cities outside United Kingdom as well as launching of new products. In 1990s the company concentrated on the acquisition of new markets and development of new products and services, it expanded into the various countries by taking over and merging with other companies. The company aims at building a multinational empire in Europe by developing new and innovative products and services and to further seek opportunities to expand into overseas countries and markets. The more recent developments and innovations by the company include the introduction of Clubcard loyalty card, Tesco Visa card, Tesco saving accounts, Tesco personal Finance and the launching of its brands and products in the newly acquired and developed markets all these are aiming at consolidating the company hence ensuring that it has enough strength to venture in launching of new products and markets. Environmental analysis There are several factors which have led to Tecso PLC to consider in venturing and launching its operations in overseas markets notably are the business environmental factors which. This analysis is the evaluation of the Company external analysis comprising threats and opportunities and five business environmental dimensions are involved, these areas of dimensions include economic, legal-political, social cultural, technological and the future certainty. Economic These are the economic trends that h ave influence Tecso PLC to consider venturing in the in expansion to overseas markets, these factors that are comprises the target market includes: better terms of interest rates in the target market; higher economic growth rate, per capita income and disposable income; availability of a wider sources of power energy; lower and moderate rates of inflation and where there is moderate levels of employment in order to easily acquire

Carther in the rye Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Carther in the rye - Essay Example per therefore addresses these age-related psychological states of Holden, how these states alienate him from the society, thereby slowing his psychological development. To begin with, Holden believes that the protection of innocence and especially childhood innocence is a virtue that all must uphold. For instance, he thinks of Jane Gallagher as the little girl he used to play checkers with, and not as a growing woman. He loathes the fact that some men make sexual advances towards women, some of whom, like Jane, he feels are supposed to remain pure. At one instance, Holden says, â€Å"Most guys at Pencey just  talked  about having sexual intercourse with girls all the time – like Ackley, for instance – but old Stradlater really did it,† (Bloom, 2007, 7.32). This statement expresses his disgust towards such behaviors. In chapter 22, a conversation between Phoebe and Holden reveals to us what he terms as the purpose of his life, that of being a catcher in the rye. He pictures children playing in a field of rye next to a cliff, and imagines that he would catch them in the event that they slip. This dream shows us that he has af fection for childhood. Finally, Holden’s obsession with profanity manifests itself when he sees obscene graffiti in school. While on his way to visiting his friend Phoebe, he sees the words ‘fuck you’ (Bloom, 2007, Cap. 25) inscribed on the wall and tries to erase them. This shows his dislike against anything that may corrupt the mind of the children. Holden also shows disgust towards what he terms the ‘phoniness’ of the adult world. Holden uses this phrase to describe such aspects as hypocrisy, pretension and shallowness. One of the things that Holden brands as phony is the movies and anything related to them. However, we observe that he watches movies not because he loves them, but due to the lack of an alternative. He also believes that people are phony because they accept middle class values, for instance, he says, â€Å"Lawyers

What are the strengths and weaknesses of the performance management Dissertation

What are the strengths and weaknesses of the performance management system of Riyadh City Council - Dissertation Example Data Analysis 44 3.10 Methodological Limitations 45 3.11 Conclusion 46 Chapter 4- Results and Discussion 4.1 Introduction 48 4.2 Results 48 4.3 Discussion 76 Chapter 5- Conclusions and Recommendations 5.1 Conclusions 86 5.2. Recommendations 90 References 93 List of Tables and Figures Table 1. Demographic characteristics: Level of measurement, categories and codes 37 Table 2. Objectives, hypotheses, and statistical tests. 37 Table 3. Frequency and percentage distribution for gender. 48 Table 4. Frequency and percentage distribution for age. 48 Table 5. Frequency and percentage distribution for years of service. 49 Table 6. Frequency and percentage distribution for position. 49 Table 7. Means and standard deviations: Agency relations. 50 Table 8. Means and standard deviations: Resource utilisation. 51 Table 9. Means and standard deviations: Inimitable. 53 Table 10. Means and standard deviations: Non-substitutable. 54 Table 11. Means and standard deviations: Competence. 55 Table 12. Mea ns and standard deviations: Firm specificity. 56 Table 13. Means and standard deviations: Relevant resources. 56 Table 14. Means and standard deviations: Utilisation of resources. 57 Table 15. Means and standard deviations: Acquisition. 59 Table 16. Means and standard deviations: Development. 59 Table 17. Means and standard deviations: Configuration. 60 Table 18. Means and standard deviations: Innovation. 61 Table 19. Means and standard deviations: Technology. 61 Table 20. Means and standard deviations: Dynamic capability. 62 Table 21. Means and standard deviations: Performance attainment. 63 Table 22. Means and standard deviations: Individual commitment. 64 Table 23. Means and standard deviations: Processes satisfaction. 65 Table 24. Means and standard deviations: Goal setting. 65 Table... Performance management is primarily known to be a process that encourages collaboration for the members of the local administration. For the RCC, they have encountered a number of concerns that must be addressed though performance management standards and practises. For instance, they have experienced problems with improving the methods for keeping up with rapid changes such as civilizational shifts or new lifestyles among community members (Al-Nuaim 2001). To consider services for health, safety, and security, housing plans, and preservation of the environment and historical sites has become a challenge for Riyadh’s local administrators. Moreover, most often, the public’s opinion on the policies implemented by the City Council as well as on the implementation of projects and activities, and the performance of the governing body, has created difficulties for mayors and the rest of the administration in developing their community (Al Riyadh 2004). Because of these, the R CC has aimed to boost their performance by focusing on the capability of their workforce, enhancing their projects by being consistent with the community’s needs, and providing their administration with the necessary procedural and managerial specialisations. One weak point that the local city councils in Riyadh has demonstrated is that they are not very capable of integrating various departments for planning and implementation, hence, reducing their likelihood for accomplishing main goals.

Steps used in quantitative research and steps used in qualitative Essay

Steps used in quantitative research and steps used in qualitative research - Essay Example This is then followed up by the articulation of research questions or hypothesis. These are usually the guiding pillars on what is to be achieved by the study. Designing the research study is the next important step and it usually guides the other research steps which include sample selection, data collection, analysis and interpretation. The interpretation step seeks to determine whether the study answers the research questions or whether it conforms to the stated hypothesis. This is followed by the drawing up of conclusions and the writing up of the final research report. Qualitative research can be conducted in 10 steps. The first and second steps involve the choosing of a subject or the area of study, as well as choosing the approach to be used. Choosing the approach is also referred to as designing the study, and this step encompasses a number of steps that include the review of literature, the formulation of research questions, statement of the purpose of the research, and sampling (Chenail, 2011). During sampling, aspects such as the target population, the appropriate sample, sample selection methods are addressed since they directly impact on the data collection and analysis methods to be used. The next step involves the addressing of the ethical concerns associated with the study. Other steps include data collection, analysis, interpretation, presentation of the findings, and the writing of the final

The Voluntary Service of Citizens in the Armed Forces Essay

The Voluntary Service of Citizens in the Armed Forces - Essay Example Many nations, including the United States, although reliant on voluntary service still do reserve the right to impose a draft. The debate on whether a draft should, at some time, be reinstated is often a discussion drawn between positive (â€Å"what is†) and normative (â€Å"what ought to be†) considerations: the distinction between whether it is economically feasible, objectively necessary, or ultimately practical and whether it is morally justifiable, philosophically contradictory (for a country committed to freedom like the United States), or politically oppressive. To make the argument for or against the draft, a discussant must address both aspects of the issue. Put in this context, the practice of conscription is at once positively and normatively unjustifiable: not only does it create an inferior fighting force, making it ineffective at accomplishing its goals, but it is a severe violation of the individual’s freedom that a government exists to protect. On the normative side, the military draft (or conscription) is a defining feature of totalitarian regimes, having been imposed by and large in the totalitarian countries and their dictators throughout history. Napoleon and Bismarck serve as two examples of despots willing to sacrifice individuals for the state. Having been instituted by these aggressive leaders and countries, the military draft carries with it aggressive force. By â€Å"aggressive force†, one means the force applied to countries other than one’s own, and not in self-defense. It is doubtful, after all, that in the event of a large-scale invasion of a country, that the country will have to force its citizens to fight to save their own lives unless of course it is ruled by a dictatorial regime unworthy of its citizens’ defense. One cannot consistently hold that individuals have rights to self-determination and individual liberties and yet that the state has the right to make them null and void.  

Performance Levels of iPhone Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 5000 words

Performance Levels of iPhone - Essay Example The present research has identified that Apple Company was incorporated in the year 1976 by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak. The duo brought on board a vision of transforming the way people viewed computers. Jobs and Wozniak had a key objective of making computers portable in order for people to have them in their homes or offices. Apart from venturing into the computer market, the Apple has also diversified into iPod and media player software. These two products have also seen good days in the market as they have become very popular across the age divide. The latest to be introduced in the company is the iPhone, a cellular phone, and the Apple TV into the market. For the sake of this study, it is important to mention that before the entrance of the Apple Company, Smartphone industry was dominated by the Canadian giant Research in Motion. The company had penetrated the market very well until the Apple emerged, and quickly overturned the tables. The major competitor of Apple’s iPh one is the Google products such as the Android operating system (OS) that is incorporated in a majority of non-Apple gadgets produced by Samsung, Huawei, Sony, HTC, Lenovo, and others. Philip defines the marketing mix as a business tool used in marketing. The tool facilitates a deep analysis of various aspects of a product so as to appeal to potential clients. Through the adoption of the marketing mix, the performance of the iPhone has increased significantly. Its assimilation in for the purpose of sales and marketing can explain the tremendous profitability, efficiency and the increased sales of a phone in the recent past. The marketing mix concept is illustrated in the paper.

Steps used in quantitative research and steps used in qualitative Essay

Steps used in quantitative research and steps used in qualitative research - Essay Example This is then followed up by the articulation of research questions or hypothesis. These are usually the guiding pillars on what is to be achieved by the study. Designing the research study is the next important step and it usually guides the other research steps which include sample selection, data collection, analysis and interpretation. The interpretation step seeks to determine whether the study answers the research questions or whether it conforms to the stated hypothesis. This is followed by the drawing up of conclusions and the writing up of the final research report. Qualitative research can be conducted in 10 steps. The first and second steps involve the choosing of a subject or the area of study, as well as choosing the approach to be used. Choosing the approach is also referred to as designing the study, and this step encompasses a number of steps that include the review of literature, the formulation of research questions, statement of the purpose of the research, and sampling (Chenail, 2011). During sampling, aspects such as the target population, the appropriate sample, sample selection methods are addressed since they directly impact on the data collection and analysis methods to be used. The next step involves the addressing of the ethical concerns associated with the study. Other steps include data collection, analysis, interpretation, presentation of the findings, and the writing of the final

Performance Levels of iPhone Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 5000 words

Performance Levels of iPhone - Essay Example The present research has identified that Apple Company was incorporated in the year 1976 by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak. The duo brought on board a vision of transforming the way people viewed computers. Jobs and Wozniak had a key objective of making computers portable in order for people to have them in their homes or offices. Apart from venturing into the computer market, the Apple has also diversified into iPod and media player software. These two products have also seen good days in the market as they have become very popular across the age divide. The latest to be introduced in the company is the iPhone, a cellular phone, and the Apple TV into the market. For the sake of this study, it is important to mention that before the entrance of the Apple Company, Smartphone industry was dominated by the Canadian giant Research in Motion. The company had penetrated the market very well until the Apple emerged, and quickly overturned the tables. The major competitor of Apple’s iPh one is the Google products such as the Android operating system (OS) that is incorporated in a majority of non-Apple gadgets produced by Samsung, Huawei, Sony, HTC, Lenovo, and others. Philip defines the marketing mix as a business tool used in marketing. The tool facilitates a deep analysis of various aspects of a product so as to appeal to potential clients. Through the adoption of the marketing mix, the performance of the iPhone has increased significantly. Its assimilation in for the purpose of sales and marketing can explain the tremendous profitability, efficiency and the increased sales of a phone in the recent past. The marketing mix concept is illustrated in the paper.

Business Financing and the Capital Structure Essay Example for Free

Business Financing and the Capital Structure Essay The financial marketplace is the area where companies engaged in financial trading are able to get capital to run. The financial market can also be referred to as capital markets. Stock markets are the place where companies come to trade among themselves; they represent individual investors or corporate investors. Trade in stocks has been deemed among the most lucrative areas a person can trade in; the returns are good. Stocks can simply be defined as shares bought for trading purposes and profits gained are ploughed back into the U. S. economy. (Saccomani and Chambers, 2008) Trade in U.S. financial markets offer various benefits; an organization can get loans to fund their activities through floating of bonds. When organizations are able to run efficiently then everybody gets to benefit, the government benefits through increased tax collection and more people get employed. The stock market offer individuals an avenue to put their money in lucrative stock instruments where the funds are managed by financial experts. Individuals do not have to worry about their limited financial expertise because at the stock markets well informed brokers or their employees will help them. Individuals are offered a variety of trading avenues which involves minimal labor and less capital intensive. (Saccomani and Chambers, 2008) The Federal Reserve is a name that is used to define the Central Bank in America. The bank was a creation of U.S. Congress for purpose of offering a safer and easier trading environment in America. The Fed is tasked with the management of the American monetary policy. They also regulate banks as well as monitoring risks at the stock markets. The Fed is comprised of seven members; who constitute the board of governors. Members of the board also constitute the F.O.M.C. (Federal Open Markets Committee); this committee decides on what interest rates to be charged by banks as well as purchase of treasuries. The Fed`s primary role is that of regulation. (Ltaifa et al, 2009) The Fed chairman`s role is that of a supervisor; he is tasked with the role of bringing the board to consensus of various monetary issues. The chairman is a presidential appointee hence he reports to the president from time to time on the country`s financial matters. The chairman also has the responsibility of steering the committee on interest rates. (Ltaifa et al, 2009) Departments or components of the Fed Reserve need to play their respective roles effectively so as to take the country in to financial success. The chairman should always maintain a steady control of all fiscal policies. The board should not enact self-centered policies that may endanger the banking sector or stock markets. The board and the chairman have to make prudent assessments of U.S. financial performance before taking any steps meant at changing any monetary policy. Interest rates affect the economy; particularly the spending power of individuals. The rates charged on bank loans lays a heavy burden on citizens; the net effect is loans become expensive hence doing business becomes harder. Higher interest rates on returns at the stock markets offer a reversed effect to the citizen; this brings about more disposable income because the return on investment is higher. (Batten and Szilagvi, 2011) The world suffers when markets get affected by whatever elements; this happens because the various economies around the world are interconnected hence any financial downfall of one will weaken the other. The Euro zone crisis is one such example where a problem begins in one country but after sometime affects a number of countries within same geographical location; countries that trade together. In the U.S. such a crisis occurred between 2007-2010, individuals found themselves not being able to finance their loans and other credit obligations. Care and keenness is needed when one wishes to traverse this terrain. References Saccomanni, F., Chambers, A. (2008).  Managing international financial instability: National tamers versus global tigers. Cheltenham: Edward Elgar. Ltaifa, Navil Ben, Kaendera, Stella, Dixit, S. V. S. (2009).  Impact of the Global Financial Crisis on Exchange Rates and Policies in Sub-saharan Africa. Intl Monetary Fund. Batten, J., Szilagyi, P. G. (2011).  The impact of the global financial crisis on emerging financial markets. Bingley, U.K: Emerald. Source document

Analysis Of The Stranger, By Albert Camus Essay

Analysis Of The Stranger, By Albert Camus Essay Tone is very important to The Stranger. Albert Camus uses several examples of irony and ironic twists. For example, Meursault got involved in a fight that had nothing to do with his life. He started out by writing a letter for his neighbor, Raymond. Raymond wanted to get his ex-girlfriend back in order to punish her for what happened in the past. Meursault ended up fighting the brother to the woman, who happened to be Arab. The final outcome was Meursault had to kill the Arab man even through the writing made the readers think Raymond was going to kill the brother. Meursaults voice comes across as lacking typical emotions. The subjective tone of the author makes the reader feel sympathetic, unsympathetic, and sympathetic once again towards Meursault situation. Then within the last few pages he has a revelation that changes the way he thinks and feels. There are various literary devices used in The Stranger. Symbolism is shown in both part one and part two. Colors of the ocean, the sky, and the view of everyday life symbolize different feelings. The color red is used when Meursault is angry or when he feels lust. He described Maries red dress when he wanted her and he described the Arab at the beach right before they fought. The color green is used when hes happy. For example, The sky was green, I felt good. The crucifix is a symbol for god and sacrifice. The crucifix shows everything that he doesnt believe in. He proves this by saying He wanted to talk to me about God again, but I went up to him and made one last attempt to explain to him that I had only a little time left and I didnt want to it on God. The courtroom is a symbol for mankind as a whole. The jurors and judge is like society and how they judge Meursault and can change his life. He feels this when he says, It was then that I noticed a row of faces in front of me. The y were all looking at me; I realized that they were the jury. But I cant say what distinguished one from another. I had just one impression: I was sitting across from a row of seats on a streetcar and all these anonymous passengers were looking over the new arrival to see if they could find something funny about him. Imagery is used when describing all characters, events, and settings. Albert Camus uses colors, and subtle details that paint a mental picture. He describes Old Salamano and his dog as two beings on the planet that look similar with their old yellow flaking skin. But Meursault also describes everything around him. And I can remember the look of the church, the villagers in the street, the red geraniums on the graves, Prezs fainting fit, he crumpled up like a rag doll the tawny-red earth pattering on Mothers coffin, the bits of white roots mixed up with it; then more people, voices, the wait outside a cafe for the bus, the rumble of the engine, and my little thrill of pl easure when we entered the first brightly lit streets of Algiers, and I pictured myself going straight to bed and sleeping twelve hours at a stretch. Meursault describes everything he can see making the readers understand the novella better. Similes and metaphors are used on practically on every page of The Stranger. A simile is used when describing Raymond. He was bleeding like a pig. Meursault states about the sun, But the heat was so intense that it was just as bad standing still in the blinding stream falling from the sky. To stay or go, it amounted to the same thing. A minute later I turned back toward the beach and started walking. The sun is a metaphor for Meursaults uncomfortable feeling. Hes comparing the sun to society and how both make him feel uncomfortable and different and he doesnt like it. The Stranger by Albert Camus shows a man fighting society in his head and how he deals with it. The novella uses tone, theme, and literary devices to show this mans life and his sceptical view of the world as he discovers that he can change , only to find out that it is too late.

Moby Dick or White Whale :: essays research papers

Ishmael, the narrator, announces his intent to ship aboard a whaling vessel. He has made several voyages as a sailor but none as a whaler. He travels to New Bedford, Massachusetts, where he stays in a whalers’ inn. Since the inn is rather full, he has to share a bed with a harpooner from the South Pacific named Queequeg. At first repulsed by Queequeg’s strange habits and shocking appearance, Ishmael eventually comes to appreciate the man’s generosity and kind spirit, and the two decide to seek work on a whaling vessel together.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  They take a ferry to Nantucket, the traditional capital of the whaling industry. There they secure work on the Pequod, a savage-looking ship adorned with the bones and teeth of sperm whales. Peleg and Bildad, the Pequod’s Quaker owners, drive a hard bargain in terms of salary. They also mention the ship’s mysterious captain, Ahab, who is still recovering from losing his leg in an encounter with a sperm whale on his last voyage.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The Pequod leaves Nantucket on a cold Christmas Day with a crew made up of men from many different countries and races. Soon the ship is in warmer waters, and Ahab makes his first appearance on deck, balancing gingerly on his false leg, which is made from a sperm whale’s jaw. He announces his desire to pursue and kill Moby Dick, the legendary great white whale who took his leg, because he sees this whale as the embodiment of evil. Ahab nails a gold doubloon to the mast and declares that it will be the prize for the first man to sight the whale.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  As the Pequod sails toward the southern tip of Africa, whales are sighted and unsuccessfully hunted. During the hunt, a group of men, none of whom anyone on the ship’s crew has seen before on the voyage, emerges from the hold. The men’s leader is an exotic-looking man named Fedallah. These men constitute Ahab’s private harpoon crew, smuggled aboard in defiance of Bildad and Peleg. Ahab hopes that their skills and Fedallah’s prophetic abilities will help him in his hunt for Moby Dick.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The Pequod rounds Africa and enters the Indian Ocean. A few whales are successfully caught and processed for their oil. From time to time, the ship encounters other whaling vessels. Ahab always demands information about Moby Dick from their captains. One of the ships, the Jeroboam, carries Gabriel, a crazed prophet who predicts doom for anyone who threatens Moby Dick.

Education Essay -- essays research papers

Education   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In many different ways, American cultural life during the Jeffersonian Era began to appear as a reflection of the Republican vision of the future. The Republicans had observed many modernizing trends, some of them favorable and others detrimental to their view of an ideal society. American religion began to adjust to the spread of Enlightenment philosophies. However, one of the most notable alterations was the new emphasis placed upon education. As more and more opportunities for learning arose, the nations literary and artistic life began to digress from the European influences which had governed early colonial society for years. In many respects, the new culture was the antithesis of many Republican ideals, and the new education system fell into that category.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The foundation of the Republican conception of America was based upon a virtuous and educated population; Jefferson himself called for a â€Å"crusade against ignorance.† Unmistakably, the Republicans believed that a nationwide system of schools should be created to produce the first wave of an educated populace, which they believed was necessary to the advancement of society. Under the Republican view, all white male citizens would receive a free education. Nonetheless, they were unable to actualize that ideal. However, many of the Republican efforts to better education would in turn spur a movement later on in which an erudite society would thrive...

Dream Company Essay

Technology has taken an uprising since the late 20th century to our world today. Everyone essentially owns some sort of technological device from cellphones to computers. Companies like Microsoft, Xerox and Canon have made our lives simpler and possibly much easier, but there was another company waiting to override the norm and push an industry giant to its limits. Apple Incorporated followed an unconventional path to its recent success in the computer industry, despite being consistently dominated by Microsoft. Apple Inc. s a multinational corporation headquartered in Cupertino, California that designs, develops, and sells consumer electronics, computer software, personal computers and portable digital music players, and mobile communications devices and sell a variety of related software, services, peripherals, and networking solutions. Its best-known hardware products are the Mac line of computers, the iPod, the iPhone, and the iPad. Its software includes the OS X and iOS operating systems, the iTunes, the Safari web browser, and the iLife and iWork creativity and production suites. The company was founded on April 1, 1976, and incorporated as Apple Computer, Inc. on January 3, 1977. The word â€Å"Computer† was removed from its name on January 9, 2007, reflecting its shifted focus towards consumer electronics after the introduction of the iPhone. Apple is the world’s second-largest information technology company by revenue after Samsung Electronics and the world’s third-largest mobile phone maker after Samsung and Nokia. Fortune magazine named Apple the most admired company in the United States in 2008, and in the world from 2008 to 2012. However, the company has received criticism for its contractors’ labor practices, and for Apple’s own environmental and business practices. As of November 2012, Apple maintains 394 retail stores in fourteen countries as well as the online Apple Store and iTunes Store. It is the second-largest publicly traded corporation in the world by market capitalization, with an estimated value of US$ 414 billion as of January 2013. As of September 29, 2012; the company had 72,800 permanent full-time employees and 3,300 temporary full-time employees worldwide. Its worldwide annual revenue in 2012 totaled $156 billion. In May 2013, Apple had made it to the top ten of the Fortune 500 list of companies for the first time, taking the 6 position, 11 places up from the previous year Innovative Products Currently, Apple’s iPhone is the yearning of the modern man. Top-notch product design, an intuitive user-interface as well as fancy multimedia internet based services may contribute to its unique market position. Therefore, if not yet accomplished, many software developers are considering getting into the iPhone platform ASAP, serving the market Industry Leaders  For the past three years Apple has been known by fortune as the world’s most admired company. They are known for elegant product design, innovation, customer loyalty, brand-building marketing, and secrecy. Apple Inc. is considered to be as the industry leaders in innovation, design, versatility and customer satisfaction. The products that they introduce every single year a re the best in the challenge. The contenders may have products that are highly dreamed on by them but at a days end more people tend to shine into Apple’s products. The vision that Apple has to make their wonderful products is carried by none. Their products like the iPhone changed the entire mobile industry. iPhone was innovative that many people as well as the rival companies such as Nokia, Samsung and many other companies were mesmerized by the innovation and technological leap the Apple had achieved by introducing this product. Perks For the past three years Apple has been known by fortune as the world’s most admired company. They are known for elegant product design, innovation, customer loyalty, brand-building marketing, and secrecy. The financial statement projected that the company will continue to grow because of their product design to meet the consumer needs. The company has seen an increase in demand of products and service. Based on the company historical and projected future earnings and cash flow growth rates, any person who is looking for a smart short to medium term investment, Apple stock would be the right decision. Its steady growth in earnings and dividends can be viewed as acquiring moderate to risky equity. On December 29, 1994, Apple inventory increased to $1 billion. That was the inventory turnover for Apple. Their total revenue rose from $9. 8 billion in 1996 to above 19. 3 billion in 2006, which is a substantial increase of 96. 43% (Shlinds, 2007. ) On July 19, 2011 Apple, announced financial results for its fiscal 2011 third quarter ended June 25, 2011. The company earned quarterly revenue of $28. 57 billion and earned a quarterly net profit of $7. 31 billion. Those billions of dollars in sales had much to do with the sales of the Macs, iPhone, and iPad. The company sold 3. 95 million Macs during the quarter, a 14% unit increase over the year-ago quarter. Apple sold 20. 34 million iPhones in the quarter, representing 142% unit growth over the year-ago quarter. They sold 9. 25 million iPads during the quarter, a 183% unit increase over the year-ago quarter. Apple sold 7. 54 million iPod, a 20% unit decline for the year-ago quarter (www. apple. com. ) Macs, iPhone, and iPad sold in numbers greater than the company expect, but the sales from the iPod decreased. Even though the iPod sales dropped, it has dominated the market digital media player and managed to maintain in the United States. This is Apple best quarter ever with revenue up 82% and profits up 125%. Their cash flow has increased 131% year-over-year, with operations of $11. 1 billion. In December 2010, the cost of goods sold of $16. 4 billion was 61. 5% of revenue. The income statement continued to grow at rates rarely seen at a large company. The company continues to deliver to the marketplace and stimulate customer demand for new programs, products, and technological innovations. The company dominant leadership in virtually every product category it competes is an obvious proof of innovation and well-executed market. However, despite its market leadership, Apple management has traditionally under-promised, yet over-delivered on earnings quarter after quarter. This has been the primary means for the stock’s sudden ascent in recent years. Companies that grow faster than the operating cash-flow it generates are usual suspects when it comes to balance sheet maneuvering. Liquidity obviously is not a problem for Apple, but this forces the analysts following the company to scramble and keep raising their targets each time Apple consensus. Cash flow quality and earnings structure better reflect the correlation between stock price and the financial statement. Apple sales growth has been inclining, while Resource and Development spending (excluding previously capitalized software and technology acquired in acquisitions) as a percentage of sales has been declining. Any stock has the potential to be successful, but under-utilized assets or small allocations to develop innovative products which drive future profits would not be helpful on returns on assets/investments. Apple has no competition. Apple creates computers, phones, tablets, music players, operating systems, television set-top boxes, lifestyle and productivity software, professional media software, and wireless routers. They also sell movies and music, and they have an application store that so far has not been challenged. Nokia, Samsung, Sony might compete with Apple hardware, but they depend on Microsoft operating system. Microsoft makes operating system for computers and phones, and they produce office and other software similar to Apple’s, but they lack in hardware. Google with the Android, is not even a single operating system. It is a multitude of operating system versions on multiple devices. If Apple wants to change something on a device, either hardware or operating system, it can just do so. If Nokia, Samsung, or Sony wants to change their operating system, they would have to recieve confirmation from Microsoft. If Microsoft wants to advance their technology, they need buy-in from hardware makers. They make their profits from business-to-business, which mainly consists of selling licenses to its operating system to computer manufacturers and office suites for enterprises. That is not to say that they do not sell to consumers. They have consumer only product lines as the Xbox gaming console, and of course, home user also buy Windows and Office. On the other hand, Apple is primarily a consumer company, and makes most of its profit selling hardware products. This makes the target of Apple’s site much clearer for marketing, selling, and providing support for its products to consumers. The rest of the technology can only play catch up. A quote from Wayne Gretzky who said, â€Å"Good hockey players play where the puck is. Great hockey players skate to where the puck is going to be. Most of the tech industry is struggling to get where the puck was, (Raymond Meyers, 2011. ) In the previous paragraph I mention Apple did not have any competition, but if I had to choose two it would be Microsoft and Google. Apple leads Microsoft and Google in the S&P 500 in this illustration: Apple $401. 82 -$10. 32 (-2. 50%) Google $520. 66 -$18. 54(-3. 44%) Microsoft $ 25. 06 -$0. 93(-3. 50%) Microsoft is steady declining. Microsoft launched windows Vista; Windows users vigorously had rejected that upgrade. Fewer than 10% of windows users had switched and nearly 5% of windows PCs in use were running windows versions older than XP. Mobile device are steady increasing, which Apple has complete control over. Mobile operating systems account for nearly 3% of all Internet. The percentage of Internet usage on mobile devices has been doubling every eight months. The many tasks that PC handled are taking over by mobile devices. Microsoft was ahead almost as long as people were using PC, but technology has advanced into mobile devices. May 26, 2010 illustrated from mobile devices, Microsoft and Apple were about even at a Market cap of $223 billion, but Apple had increased rapidly to $306 billion, while Microsoft decreases to $212 billion. Apple site is generally more user friendly than Microsoft, and offers a much better experience to consumers who use it to check out the latest Apple products. Apple website is much smaller in scale than Microsoft’s site. Apple uses many of white space and subheadings to make everything more readable, yet they keep their website simple by not overusing too many different text. Microsoft hosts many different sites under the Microsoft. com brand, creating a whole ecosystem of sub-sites. Microsoft biggest problem is consistency. There is no global navigation, and there are not many visual clues that tell the user that this is a Microsoft site. Unlike Apple, where the whole site shares one unique visual that mirrors that of their hardware and software, thus creating a powerful brand. Google Android has become the closest smartphone that can stand up to the iPhone dominance. In this graph is shows the sale between smartphones: | Apple has more than three hundred retail stores in ten countries, in addition to an online store that offers its products to the customers across the globe (Apple Inc, 2011). This global network allows the company to develop and launch the products in it markets of America, Asia, and Europe. The company is officially listed as number one company that provides wide range of technology related products in the world after surpassing Microsoft. The company has more than 45,000 employees working on full-time basis and around 3,000 employees worldwide. It was noted that the company had earned the annual sales of around $67 billion US dollars from its worldwide operations (Apple Inc, 2010). The company is listed as one of the most admired companies in the United States and in the World for four consecutive years (Fisher, 2008 Colvin, 2009 Fortune, 2010). Apple products like Mac, iPhone, iPad, and iPod are manufactured in the United States, but the company is outsourcing the production of some of its product parts to the various international and national supply chain partners. For example, iPod are outsourced to its subcontractor in Hong Kong from where it is sent to the outsourced production plant of the company (Linden et al, 2007). The company saves money by outsourcing, but on the other hand, it increases the downsizing and unemployment rate in the United States. Price, place, promotion strategies, product performance, the quality, and reliability of the product, innovative designs as well as the availability of up-to-date software services are factors that can impact the business and profitability of Apple. The focus on manager at this point is the expansion of its smartphones and other media and communication devices. The competitors of Apple have numerous of resources that they can offer the business and consumer products and services similar to Apple’s products at a low price range. Decrease the price on Apple products by creating resources from other companies will attract more customers.

Flood Measuring System Essay

This chapter includes a brief overview on experimental research and the process that led to the selection of the research design used in this study. Additional topics addressed in Chapter 3 are: research locale, and instrumentation. Research Design An experimental type of methodology was used to conduct this research. An experimental method of research is a systematic and scientific approach to research in which the researcher manipulates one or more variables, and controls and measures any change in other variables(http://explorable.com/experimental-research.html). The method is appropriate to this study since it aims to overcome the present condition of our country, specifically the areas near Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila during rainy days. The technique that the researchers will use under experimental method is developing a device that monitors the height of the water using sonar sensor and sends it to the server by the means GSM module. Then the data received by the GSM will be sent to the application created for android phones via internet. The purpose of employing the experimental method is to overcome the present condition of the areas near Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila during rainy days. The researcher opted to use this kind of research considering the desire to acquire data from the device that the researchers developed so as to formulate rational and sound conclusions and recommendations for the study. Block Diagram Flood Monitoring Unit Server Android Application Research Locale The researchers will conduct the study to three different areas near Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, these areas are selected to inform the students of the said university if the route they will take is still passable or not. Instrumentation An instrument was developed to monitor the flood in three different areas near Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila. This section will discuss the instrument and its development. The first step in developing the instrument was to make a prototype that will monitor the height of the flood on the said areas. It consists of a sonar sensor, Gizduino and GSM module. The sonar sensor is enclosed in a container with a hole at the bottom that will sense the height of the water measured in inches. It detects the height of the flood with respect to the ground as its basis. The maximum flood level itcan detect is six feet which is equivalent to 72 inches and it only reads data in whole number. It is SIM dependent.The GSM module will send the data gathered to the server. Then the server will analyze the data and relays it to android applicationvia internet. The following will be the list of materials to be used in constructing this project. 1. Microcontroller The Gizduino is a microcontroller board based on the ATmega328 and ATmega168. It has 14 digital input/ output pins, 6 analog inputs, a 16 MHz crystal oscillator, a USB connection, a power jack, an ICSP header, and a reset button. It contains everything needed to support the microcontroller; simply connect it to a computer with a USB cable or power it with a AC-to-DC adapter or battery to get started. it is an open source computing platform based on simple input/output (I/O) board and the use of standard programming language; in other words, it is a tool for implementing a program you have designed. Gizduino is programmed using the IDE (Integrated Development Environment). Gizduino is ideal for beginner programmers and hobbyists because of its simplicity compared to other platforms. It is a multiplatform environment; it ca run on Windows, Macintosh, and Linux. It is programmable via USB cable, which makes it more accessible and allows communication with the computer FEATURES & SPECIFICATIONS †¢ Microcontroller: ATmega168 or ATmega328 †¢ User Interface: USB Port, DC Jack, ResetButton, ICSP Port, Shield Connection Port †¢ Debugger Port: ICSP †¢ Power Input: External:8V-12V USB:5V †¢ DC Power Output: 3.3V †¢ PCB Size: 2.7 x 2.1 inch †¢ On-board Crystal: 16MHz and 12MHz 2. Sonar Sensor A US-100 Ultrasonic Sonar isa low cost compact ultrasonic sonar (distance measuring) sensor with up to 3.5-meters range. A host microcontroller circuit determines distance by triggering the US-100 and then measuring the echo time indicated by the pulse width output of the sensor. Temperature compensatured for accurate ranging even on varying ambient temperatures. FEATURES & SPECIFICATIONS †¢ 40KHz Ultrasonic sonar †¢ 2cm – 350cm sensor range (Temperature compensated) †¢ TTL Trigger input †¢ TTL Echo output 3. GSM Module GSM/GPRS module is used to establish communication between a computer and a GSM-GPRS system. Global System for Mobile communication (GSM) is an architecture used for mobile communication in most of the countries. Global Packet Radio Service (GPRS) is an extension of GSM that enables higher data transmission rate. GSM/GPRS module consists of a GSM/GPRS modem assembled together with power supply circuit and communication interfaces (like RS-232, USB, etc) for computer. GSM/GPRS MODEM is a class of wireless MODEM devices that are designed for communication of a computer with the GSM and GPRS network. It requires aSIM (Subscriber Identity Module) card just like mobile phones to activate communication with the network. Also they have IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number similar to mobile phones for their identification. A GSM/GPRS MODEM can perform the following operations: 1. Receive, send or delete SMS messages in a SIM. 2. Read, add, search phonebook entries of the SIM. 3. Make, Receive, or reject a voice call. FEATURES & SPECIFICATIONS †¢ Quad Band GSM/GPRS †¢ Text and PDU Mode †¢ TCP/IP stack †¢ GPRS class 10: max 85.6 kbps downlink †¢ Standard AT Commands (GSM07.07, 07.05, & SIMCOM enhanced AT commands) †¢ Analog audio port †¢ UART (TTL) serial port †¢ Debug Port †¢ RTC backup †¢ Charger interface

Assignment as

As part of the network security team, we will be proving IDI with a network security plan to mitigate the vulnerabilities that have been discovered. A secure site will be set up with network intrusion detection and network protection systems will be available to access via the internal network. Policies will be presented for remote access and the use of VPN. Also contained within this report will be strategies for hardening the network and mitigating risks. An updated network layout with increased network security to meet the current needs will be included. In the interest of business continuity, remote access will be utilized. User wishing access to internal network assets will only be able to access said assets with the use of a company issued laptop. We will make use of MAC address filtering to allow remote users access to the internal network via VPN. Each of the remote access laptops will have been loaded with VPN and have the MAC address added to the list on the MAC address filter. Users will be able to login to the VPN by using their local username and password. By making use of a VPN connection, users should be able to easily access the network assets. VPN connections are protected by SSL encryption which provides communication security over the internet. Each of the remote access laptops will be encrypted with McAfee safeboot encryption and all local data will remain encrypted until a valid login is entered. McAfee safeboot encryption requires additional login information to access the IDI internal network. At the present there is one web server for employees to access both internal and external sites. The network security team will be integrating a web server located within the internal network. This Web server will be accessible only from within IDI’s local area network. We will be using the layered security concept to protect IDI’s internal servers. An (IDS) intrusion detection system will be set up to send out alerts in the event of an intrusion and log all connections. An (IPS) intrusion prevention system will be set up to prevent the detected intrusions and will make use of MAC address filtering to deny or allow connections based off the MAC address or physical address of each machine. MAC address filtering will allow the servers to accept incoming traffic from predetermined hosts. To further secure the local area network, the network security team will be implementing the principle of least privilege in regards to the users. By using the principle of least privilege we will be preventing multiple forms of malicious or accidental risks by only giving the user the permissions and privileges necessary to complete their job. Microsoft’s default security software is commonly used and well known making the vulnerabilities well known, which would make it easier for a hacker to plan out an attack. Third party antivirus\malware and firewall software will be used on all machines. The servers located within the network will make use of a statefull firewall to monitor and filter all traffic on the network by scanning for congruence between data packets. The public facing servers used to connect the internal webserver to the customer website are contained within the demilitarized zone. Due to the demilitarized zones proximity to the wide area network, we will be taking a layered security approach. There will be a statefull firewall located between the router and the demilitarized zone. This firewall will protect the internal network via the LAN-to-WAN connection by performing in-depth packet inspection and closely monitoring the LAN’s inbound and outbound traffic. A stateless physical firewall device will be in place between the internet service provider and the demilitarized zone. This firewall hardware will allow for larger amounts of inbound and outbound traffic. The demilitarized zone will make use of both an IDS and IPS to handle any intrusions within this part of the network. Current IDI Network Weaknesses/vulnerabilities Logisuite 4. 2.2 has been installed 10 years ago, has not been upgraded, however over 350 modifications have been made, and license is expired RouteSim- The destination delivery program is used to simulate routes, costs and profits , it is not integrated into Logisuite or oracle financials to take advantage of the databases for real-time currency valuation and profit loss projections IDI needs to standardize office automation hardware and software currently there are about 600 workstations , 200 HP, 150 Toshibas, 175 IBM, 50 dell, rest are apple PowerBooks without CAD software available Software ranges from various antique word processing packages of which are incompatible for integration with each other, causing transfer of files to become corrupt when opened by incompatible software Polices exist that prohibit the introduction of personal devices, many executives have had administrators install clients on their unsupported non-standard personal laptops, pcs, ws that interface with internet with little or no personal protection WAN was designed by MCI in early 2000’s which has not been upgraded since data rate increases have occurred in Asia and Brazil has been distressed. Between September and March (peak hours) capacity is insufficient, customers are lost due to dropped connections and abandoned shopping baskets, further reducing growth and revenue Telecommunications – limited Mitel SX-2000 private automatic branch exchange (PABX) that only provides voicemail and call forwarding Current IDI Strengths Sao Paulo is presently the strongest link in the chain. Sao Paulo Brazil is a model of standardization; all other sites will be modeled after this site. The Sao Paulo office includes the following setup 30 MS windows for file and print 4 Linux (Unix) servers for major production applications 2 Linux (Unix) servers with the internet zone with juniper high-speed switches and routers A storage area network based on EMC CLARiiON SAP R/3(ECC6-Portal based apps) Up-to-date security policies although in Spanish The telephone system provided by SP Telesis- one of the four competing providers in the metropolitan city The NEC NEAX 2400 Series PABX used for internal and external communications

Learning English Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Learning English - Essay Example   I was born and raised in a Middle Eastern country. one of my uncles was a well-known businessman who had dealings with people from all over the world. As a child, I often heard him interact with them in a different language and at one time, I gained the courage to ask him what language it was. That was the first time that I encountered the word English and I became fascinated with it.   My uncle told me that English, like Arabic, was an international language which was used to communicate with people all over the world, no matter their nationality.   However, in my country, there was little opportunity for learning this language because the medium of teaching in school was mainly in Arabic. Despite this, I resolved that there would come a time when I would learn English and be able to communicate with people from other cultures. My opportunity came when my application to Middle Tennessee State University was accepted and became the turning point because of my desire to learn English came to be satisfied. In America, I met an individual who would not only teach me the English language but also make it possible for me to gain some proficiency in it.  My two friends, Abdullah and Mustafa, and I started taking English classes with Irving Penzo, a renowned English teacher who helped the three of us excel in the language. from the beginning of our classes, we all took to him because he was not only jovial but also a man who was dedicated to the welfare of all of his students.

MRSA Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

MRSA - Essay Example MRSA leads to fatal illness resulting from bacteriemia (Rotas et al, 2007). Staphylococcus aureus is a gram – positive cocci forming grapelike clusters. They have the capacity to cause skin lesions such as boils, carbuncles, impetigo, scalded skin as well as pharyngitis, pneumonia, endocarditis, food poisoning, and toxic shock syndrome (Robbins et al, 335). Moreover, Staphyloccus aureus is considered as the major microorganism causing severe burns and surgical wounds. Next to Escherichi coli, Staphyloccus aureus is the second cause of hospital – acquired infection (Robbins, et al, 335). Robbins, et al, added that this microorganism is remarkable for its local destructiveness. MRSA, otherwise known as methicillin resistant Staphloccus areus is an organism that are resistant to the commonly used antibiotics, methicillin (MRSA, 2004). Methicillin was initially used as antibiotics to manage patients against Staphyloccus aureus infection. However, Methicillin was overused and misused and consequently resulted to a certain situation where MRSA bacterium was no longer sensitive to this particular antibiotic. As a result, methicillin was never used as antibiotics but was only intended to identify this particular type of antibiotic resistance (MRSA 2004; Stryer 2006). Stà ¶ppler (2008) stated that MRSA can be found all over the world and brings about a relatively short history. Stà ¶ppler noted that MRSA existed as long as humanity existed. In 1961, MRSA was first noted. This was approximately two years following the usage of methicillin as an antibiotic to treat the microorganisms Staphyloccocus aureus and other infectious microorganisms. During this time, it was found out that methicillin resistance was caused by a certain penicillin - binding protein that was coded for by a mobile genetic element called as methicillin resistant gene or mecA. Stà ¶ppler (2008) added that this gene continued to evolve in such a way that the strains of MRSA are resistant to other

Marketing communication Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Marketing communication - Essay Example Higher GDP, high disposable income of people and technological advancement will help to motivate the company to do product diversification. The authentic luxury watches will provide the positive contribution by the innovative creation and identification of target audience. The luxury watches have the strength to influence customer ambition and purchasing behavior due to attractive product design, effective marketing and distribution strategy. Singapore is known for the high consumption rate country of luxury products. Supportive competitive market and implementation of supreme product positioning strategy will help the company to meet with the future objectives. These factors will motivate Azimuth Watch Company to enter in the luxury watch industry. Therefore, Azimuth has the opportunities and the required responsibility to introduce luxury watches in order to encourage sustainable consumption. External Environmental Scan The external environment scan will help to analyze the impact of external environmental factors on luxury watch industry. In order to do the analysis PEST analysis can be formulated. PEST Analysis The PEST analysis used to analyze the macro environmental forces that impact the strategic planning of Azimuth. This analysis will identify the business environment in Singapore for Azimuth. In order to maximize the business opportunities and reduce the external threats, PEST analysis is implemented in this study. The PEST analysis consists of four factors such as political, economical, sociological and technological factors. Political Factors `Singapore is known for his leading high-quality governance globally. The country is considered as the political stable and consistent policy-making country. The political risk regarding investing in luxury watch industry in Singapore is very low. Singapore is also considered as the third least corrupt countries in Asia, due to the country’s efficient government. The legislative power of Singapore lies j ointly with the government and parliament. Therefore it is feasible that the political stability of country should influence Azimuth Watch Company to enter in the luxury watch industry. Economical Factors Singapore is one of the strongest economies in world. The GDP of Singapore is 239.7 billion US $ and the GNI per capita is 42,930 US $. The GDP value of Singapore indicates that the economic output and the disposable income of people are much higher than other economies (Worldbank, 2013). The global economic crisis had a negative impact on economy. After 2008 Singapore’s economy again contracted. Now-a-days Singapore is one of the global economical giant. The high disposable income, higher GDP and low risk will influence Azimuth to do business practices. Sociological Factors Singapore has the population of 5067700 and the major concern is that; population growth has increased in last 10 years. More than 90% of total population has high income distribution in Singapore. The p eople of Singapore tend to consume the luxury products than any other countries. There is a huge potential customer base for luxury watch company and the culture of country supports people to buy luxury products in order to show-off their self-esteem and high personalities. Technological Factors Singapore is a highly technological developed country. The contribution of technology in country’s GDP is outstanding. Government of Singapore is focusing on R&D for more IT investment. Singapore government has a goal named

A Public Kiosk In Connection With The 2012 Olympics (Report) Essay

A Public Kiosk In Connection With The 2012 Olympics (Report) - Essay Example The kiosks eliminate some of the volume at information booths, while also helping reduce foot traffic flow issues created when visitors are undecided or are lost. They are not designed for huge profit, though users will have an option to print a map to take with them for 2 euros. The real advantage of a kiosk is to promote self-service among consumers and provide them with a higher level of service† (Sweeney). The kiosks will be used for the first time by London Olympic Games officials, as a test for future games and events. Our company receives a stipend for design and development costs. Physical machines are provided by a kiosk designer/supplier. The vending machine systems used to collect coins will be installed by a London vending company. Depending on the success of this project, future contracts may be realized by our company and the others involved in putting the kiosks together. Visitors will use one of four kiosk terminals in one of four locations, to obtain event and location information at specific hours. They will have the option of printing the on screen map to share with others in their party or to save time that would be required to return to the kiosk to obtain forgotten information again. Visitors will be able to select one of nineteen languages from the main screen. The next screen will ask for more input information of event or hour. Output display will provide the desired event and all others held at that hour.

My Strengths and Weakness of each of the Domains of The Framework for Essay

My Strengths and Weakness of each of the Domains of The Framework for Teaching - Essay Example I need to do self- assessment. I need to improve the way I do teaching. The Domains of the Framework for Teaching, I realized, is the thing needed to be done in order to address our aspiration to be good teachers. Domain 1: Planning and Preparation This is the foremost thing I do when teaching. I consider this as the springboard to teaching. My strength in this area is the â€Å"knowledge of content and pedagogy.† I studied my concentration for many years. My interest is encompassing when it comes to my adored area of study. And I enjoyed teaching the content to my students. My knowledge in pedagogy complements well the teaching and learning process. All in all, this is my cup of tea. My weakness, though, is â€Å"demonstrating knowledge of students.† I find it a hard time to individually identify my students’ strengths, weaknesses and intelligences. There are instances when I sense a divide between my expectations and students’ actual capabilities. I also find it hard to customize my instruction to suit their background knowledge and readiness. To demonstrate well the knowledge of students is my desire. I realized that if only I can do it, teaching can be more exciting and rewarding. I have to have knowledge of my students’ personality. I should do efforts to recognize them more. I can do this by analyzing and discovering their backgrounds and abilities through student-centered strategies in teaching. I should exhibit care and concern to their ideas and opinions. My students and I should open up channels of communication where the students can freely ask guidance and comfort. I can start doing efforts to know my students immediately. I will regularly include this in my day-to-day life as a

Bad news or refusal letter Essay Example for Free

Bad news or refusal letter Essay On behalf of BD Small Appliances, I would like to thank you for purchasing the Moulinex Soft Crunch Toaster Oven last April 3, 2007. At BD Small appliances, we value customer satisfaction over anything else. We also take pride in providing quality assurance certified appliances to all out clients and do our best to offer the best after sales service in the market today through our optional extended warranty offer. Under the extended warranty offer, any appliance bought from our store carries an extended 2-year warranty on parts for factory defective appliances as well as free repair and service covering the first year of purchase. The extended warranty also comes with an option to replace the defective unit upon the request of the client. No questions asked. Unfortunately, your purchase is only covered by the regular warranty of the toaster that is good for only one year and covers only factory defects. The problem with your toaster stems from client misuse. Our company technician found a substance similar to melted butter and an unidentifiable sticky substance covering the heating coils. This is what caused the toaster to break down. I also regret to inform you that because the defect of the toaster is does not stem from the factory production, the only option we can offer you is a repair of the item. The cost of the repair will be $47. 00, while a new toaster will cost $50. 00. As I explained above, the toaster is not covered by the extended warranty that would have allowed us to replace the toaster free of charge instead of repairing it. This is why we cannot accommodate your request for a brand new Moulinex Soft Crunch Toaster. I also regret to inform you that our return and refund policy only covers items purchased within 7 days. Refunds are also only done in the event of a factory defect. We would therefore like you to consider the 2 other options available to you, that is you may pay for the repair of the item or purchase a new one. Feel free to contact me at my direct number indicated at the end of this letter once you have made your decision or if you need further clarifications regarding this letter. I will be happy to confer with you at your convenience. Our company wishes we could do more for you to make up for the lost appliance so please accept the discount coupon worth $5. 00 attached to this letter to help towards the purchase or repair of the your item. This has been a very difficult decision for our company to arrive at. I would have liked to bend company policy for you and give you a new toaster if it were possible for me to do so. I hope that this incident will not become a deterrent that will stop you from making future purchases at BD Small Appliances. Sincerely, Nicole Bridgford Customer Service Representative Contact Number: 551-429876 (Office Hours Only).

The Secularization Thesis

The Secularization Thesis It was Voltaire who said, If God did not exist, it would be necessary to invent him. Our theory agrees. (Stark and Bainbridge 1987, page 23). These words uttered by Stark and Bainbridge back in 1987 offer a glimpse into the longstanding and heated debated between the previously dominant, the Secularization Thesis and the completing Supply Side Theory, in academic sociology. Both theories have profound implications for the future of religion as a force in society. This essay will look at two articles published in the Sociology of Religion. Firstly, this essay will look at the two completing theories of the Secularization Thesis and the Supply Side. Secondly, a summary of the main points of Starks article entitled Secularization: RIP† in 1999, and Bruces 2001 response article entitled Christianity in Britain: RIP will be presented. Looking critically at both articles, this essay will conclude that Stark has won the debate for this around. The secularization thesis dates from when the theory of development was at the high of its influence. The theory in its modern incantation comes from the work of British sociologist Bruan Wilson in the 1960s. This twofold thesis was based on the observation that since the French and industrial revolutions in Europe in the 19th and 20 centuries have lead to a decline in religiosity. Firstly, this theory used Modernity as an explanation for the exit of Christianity from the world. Secondary, this theory, would have the same effects on all types of societies. It saw the extinction of religion from an enlightened world. On the other hand, Supply Side Theory came to challenge the secularization theory in the 1980s. This theory aims to explain religiosity. Proponents believe that there is a constant potential human demand for religious goods over time and between societies. They believe that as the supply of these goods fluctuates, these fluctuations explain the different levels of religio us vigour in different societies. Basically, the greater the religious diversity of a society, the better the religious vigour in that society. As previously noted the secularization thesis theory has come under aggressive attack. Rodney Stark, then teaching at the University of Washington in 1999 published his article â€Å"Secularization, R.I.P. in the Sociology of Religion journal. In this article, Stark clearly argues that the Secularisation theoy, is out-dated, old-fashioned and, as the title of his article highlights, the theory is dead and should be left to rest in peace Stark begins his article by noting, â€Å"[f]or nearly three centuries, social scientists and assorted western intellectuals have been promising the end of religion†. Stark makes five major claims about the thesis. Firstly, according to Stark, Modernity and modernisation is seen by theorists to be the cause of secularization. He notes that modernisation is a â€Å"long, gradual, relatively stable process†, and that if secularization is the result of modernisation, there will be a corresponding â€Å"long-term, gradual, and relatively constant trend of religious decline†. Secondly, to Stark, the focus of the predictions is on individual piety, especially belief, not institutional differentiation. He believes that some supporters of the secularization thesis have changed their focus and definition so they do not have to admit that their thesis is failed. In fact, Stark agrees religion institutions have less power and that religious ritual and symbols have become le ss common in public life. Starks third argument is that in all versions of the thesis the claim that â€Å"of all aspects of modernization, it is science that has the most deadly implications for religion†. Fourthly, Secularization is irreversible. Nevertheless, Stark disagrees with this by noting Andree Greeleys 1994 comment that after 70 years of Soviet Union militant efforts to achieve secularisation â€Å"St. Vladimir has routed Karl Marx†. Finally, Stark notes that the thesis applies globally. While the theorists have mostly focuses on Christianity, â€Å"belief in supernatural powers† is going to die out all over the world. Allah and Jehovah will both join each other as an â€Å"interesting historical memory†. Secularization, R.I.P., then gets into specifics. To Stark the secularization thesis has failed to be an accurate prediction due to six main reasons. Firstly, it is a myth that there has been a decline in religious belief and participation because â€Å"there has been no demonstrable long-term decline in European religious participation† and in Europe â€Å"levels of subjective religiousness remain high.† Next, he argues that there has never been an â€Å"Age of Faith†. To Stark most Europeans did not attend church during the middle Ages and during the Renaissance. In fact, he highlights that many clergy were incompetent and that clergy were often absent from their parishes. In addition, while there were â€Å"periodic explosions of mass religious enthusiasm†, this offers even stronger evidence against involvement in organized religion. As a result, it can be said religious participation sometimes rises and sometimes declines. Thirdly, he argues that never was Europe really Christianized. Stark believes that although early Christianity was a â€Å"mass social movement in a highly competitive environment,† it lost its energy after it became the official religion of the Roman Empire. After Emperor Constantine converted to Christianity, there was never an attempt to convert the general population of Europe. This ties in to his fourth argument. Stark notes that while some theorists confirm there was no â€Å"Age of Faith, to them people still had high levels of religious belief, even if they did not go to church. Stark believes, using secular Iceland as an example, this still applies today, noting that while Iceland only has 2 percent church attendance, only 2.4 percent of the country are atheists. Fifthly, â€Å"if secularization is to show up anywhere it must show up among scientists†. However, Stark discovers that many scientists report being religious. Evidence that there is a conflict between religion and science is m ostly fictional, and scientists are not â€Å"notably irreligious†. Finally, Stark ends his rant about the fails of the Secularization theory by stating that evidence from Eastern Europe, Muslim nations and practitioners of Asian â€Å"folk† religions that modernity is compatible with religion. In 2001, Steven Bruce, Professor of Sociology at the University of Aberdeen, responded to Stark, with the appropriately titled â€Å"Christianity in Britain, R.I.P.†. Bruce disagrees with Starks hypothesis that the secularisation is simply a myth, based upon underestimating the religious vitality of the of the world today. Furthermore, Stark argued that this myth also exaggerated the religiosity of the past age of faith. In order to refute Starks claims, Bruce uses Britain as an example. Firstly, Bruce looks back at pre-industrial Britain. While knowledge of religion and its orthodoxy may have been limited, in order for there to be no golden age of faith we would have to be able accept nine â€Å"sociologically implausible assumptions†. These range from wondering if the most powerful national institution had little or no impact upon the people. To why would people allow such a large amount of the wealth of Britain go to this institution which they did not support. To Br uce, religious beliefs then were still far more pervasive and influential than they are now. Next, Bruce looks at various indicators of the decline of Christianity in Britain over the last 150 years. Today, most Christian communities are in decline. Even if we just look to surveys done in 1951, 1990, and 2000 there is a clear trend of dramatic decline. Bruce goes as far to comment that using the long-term stable trend of the decline of Church membership and attendance, it is possible to make a statistical projection that by the 2030s the main Christian denominations will cease to exist. (Methodist). Bruce clearly believes that no amount of supply side revisionism will change the fact that Christianity in Britain is in serious trouble. Bruce then takes a critical look at supply-side theories of religion, which argue that demand is constant and that levels of religious vitality therefore depend on the supply, which is greatest when there is a free and competitive market for providers. He asks that considering Christianity has always valued collective acts of worship, and if there is a free marketplace for religion and no lack of shortage of Christian organisations. Surly this should be expressed in some way. Bruce notes that while the New Age movement might appear to demonstrate the existence of widespread informal religious belief, perhaps of an enduring need for religion, his examination of the extent, nature, and significance of that movement suggests otherwise, noting that they are â€Å"numerically all but irrelevant†. The memberships of these new organisations do not sufficiently make up for those lost from the more traditional denominations, which are in danger of dwindling past the demographic point o f no return.