Essay On Girl Interrupted - 1394 Words

Memoir is a style of life writing with a variety of subgenres intended to impact the world and spread awareness on multiple issues. In â€Å"Memoir† by G. Thomas Couser, an autopathography is defined as a subgenre â€Å"†¦centered on medical conditions and impairments once considered stigmatic† (Couser 43). Essentially, an autopathography tells a story of a life concerning a medical condition and seeks to spread awareness on said condition. â€Å"Girl, Interrupted† by Susanna Kaysen is a memoir telling the story of a young girl taken to a psychiatric hospital in the late 60s. The memoir was published in 1993 and continues to have an impact due to its descriptions of mental illness. By analyzing the memoirist’s descriptions of her time spent hospitalized†¦show more content†¦Kaysen writes: â€Å"The world didn’t stop because we weren’t in it anymore, far from it.† (92). The year is 1968 and the world was experiencing anti- war struggles and the civil rights movement. Meanwhile, the patients in Mclean would cheer on the protesters as they were â€Å"safe in our expensive, well-appointed hospital, locked up with our rages and rebellions† (93-93). Throughout the protests, the patients relate to the protesters’ actions because they see their anger reflected in them. Kaysen references social struggles at this time to show that there was chaos outside the institution as well. Kaysen’s depictions of the individuals in the hospital and the events happening at the time give believability to the story, showing readers the encounters she had in Mclean. Further, by vividly describing incidents she experiences during her stay in Mclean, Kaysen shows readers the harsh struggles of being diagnosed with a mental illness. In Mclean, the memoirist is a compliant patient who has only a few incidents. First, she goes through a breakdown in which she attempts to tear through her skin to confirm that she has bones. Kaysen writes that she planned to get a look at her hand by getting a â€Å"hold of a flap of skin and peel it away† because she wanted to see that her hand was â€Å"a normal human hand, with bones† (102). When Georgina sees her roommate trying to tear at her bloody hand she runs out to seek assistance and Susanna has to be medicated. After she isShow MoreRelatedEssay On Girl Interrupted1847 Words   |  8 Pagesown self. Even though this movement was trying to push people out of these facilities, they still had inpatient who lived within the institution, for example a Susanna Kaysen. Susanna Kaysen, an author who p ublished her memoir in 1993, called Girl Interrupted, which gave readers a view into the mental health system and her own personal experience. After a failed suicide attempt Susanna was voluntary placed into a mental institution. She was expecting a short stay, where she could recuperate and thenRead More Girl Interrupted Essay986 Words   |  4 Pages GIRL, INTERRUPTED by Susanna Kaysen (New York: Turtle Bay Books, 1993) 1. Author: Susanna Kayson was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts in 1948 where she still lives. She is the author of books which are in some parts related to her personal experiences. She worked as a free-lance editor and proof reader until an introduction to an agent set her career in motion. Her novels: The novel that caught the agents attention, Asa, As I Knew Him, was published in 1987 and people were very interested inRead More Girl interrupted Essay1143 Words   |  5 Pageslike this can thrive; the only treatment they have is appreciation for the life they take away from a patient. WORKS CITED PAGE Quote #1- Page 21-FREEDOM- Girl, Interrupted Quote #2- Page 80-SECURITY SCREEN-Girl, Interrupted Quote #3 Page 54-CHECKS-Girl, Interrupted nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;Girl, Interrupted- By Susanna Kaysen Copyright 1993 Originally published by Turtle Bay Books, A Division of Random House, INC, NY 1993 Web Pages . www.antipsychiatry.org Article on-------Read More Girl, Interrupted Essay1244 Words   |  5 Pages Girl, Interrupted Part I: Critical Analysis Author: Susanna Kaysen. Girl, Interrupted: New York Division of Random House. Inc 1993. 1.nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;What is the author’s topic? The author’s topic is about a teenager name Susanna Kaysen. At 18 she voluntarily turned herself into McLean Hospital. 2. nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;nbsp;Identify the author’s main idea(s). In other words, what is the main point the author is attempting to make aboutRead MoreEssay On Girl Interrupted1567 Words   |  7 PagesFor this assignment, I chose the movie Girl, Interrupted starring Winona Ryder, Angelina Jolie, and Whoppie Goldberg. It is set in the 1960’s and is about a young woman, Susanna Kaysen, who is diagnosis with borderline personality disorder. In the beginning the movie, she’d attempted suicide using aspirin and vodka, though she insists she just had a headache for most of movie. She is persuaded to go to a nearby mental hospital, Claymore, where she begins her stay and treatment. In the facility, sheRead MoreEssay on Girl Interrupted Review785 Words   |  4 PagesOne popular cultural myth about the mentally ill is the archetype of the Sexy Crazy Girl, which weve seen in movies, comic books, and music. Losing your grip with reality is not a glamorous subject, but th ats not what you get from Girl, Interrupted. It is apparent that all the girls in the movie had some type of dysfunctional personality, and bad things happen to some of them, but it just did not seem realistic. First off, most of the patients prtrayed were young, which made the care facilityRead MoreGirl Interrupted Analysis Essay1848 Words   |  8 PagesGirl, Interrupted (1999) directed by James Mangold is largely based on a semi- autobiographical book by the same title. The movie chronicles eighteen year old Susanna Kaysen’s experiences surrounding her stay at a mental institution. It is 1967, a time of social change and unrest. Susanna makes a half-heart attempt at suicide, ingesting a bottle of aspirin and chasing the pills with a bottle of vodka. She is taken to the emergency room, her stomach is pumped and she survives. Afterwards she meetsRead MoreGirl Interrupted Essay example600 Words   |  3 PagesGirl, Interrupted Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a serious psychiatric illness. People that are diagnosed with this disorder suffer from an intense pattern of affective instability, extreme difficulties in interpersonal relationships, problems with behavioral or impulse control, and disrupted cognitive processes. The estimated prevalence of BPD in the general adult population is about 2%, mostly affecting young women. Susanna Kaysen was born on November 11, 1948 in Cambridge, MassachusettsRead MoreEssay about girl interrupted review753 Words   |  4 Pages One popular cultural myth about the mentally ill is the archetype of the quot;Sexy Crazy Girlquot;, which weve seen in movies, comic books, and music. Losing your grip with reality is not a glamorous subject, but thats not what you get from Girl, Interrupted. It is apparent that all the girls in the movie had some type of dysfunctional personality, and bad things happen to some of them, but it just did not seem realistic. First off, most of the patients prtrayed were young, which made the careRead MoreThe Portrayal of Mental Illness in â€Å"Girl, Interrupted† Essay1693 Words   |  7 PagesIllness in â€Å"Girl, Interrupted† The film â€Å"Girl, Interrupted† is a true story adapted from the original memoir by Susanna Kaysen. Set in the 1960s, it relates her experiences during her stay in a mental institution after being diagnosed with borderline personality disorder following a suicide attempt. Many films include characters with a mental illness; the actors who play these characters have the immense challenge of staying true to the illness they portray. The main character in â€Å"Girl, Interrupted

Women and the Patriarchal Society in Much Ado About Nothing

Women and the Patriarchal Society The patriarchal society is a setting of ‘Much Ado about Nothing’ that shows male domination and women suppression. Men like Don Pedro, Benedick and Claudio returns with victory from the battle. It implies the boasted male ego. Male honor serves as a crucial importance to men in the play. Leonato questions the messager that ‘How many gentlemen have you lost in this action?’ It hints that physical strength is a definition of manhood. With Don Pedro, Claudio and Benedick rise of power as a soldier with victory, they hold great power as a upper social class. In Act 1, the exposition of the play emphasize on men’s talk, only the outspoken Beatrice can have a word or two, but the men still dominate the†¦show more content†¦Besides, Margaret as the maid to Hero, is under the deceptive appearance that veiled her witty nature. When she is with the woman, her true self is shown through the use of sexual innuendo when she refers woman as ‘mai d and stuffed’ with the idea of pregnancy. She can have bawdy talk just like man when she responds to Hero by saying ‘heavier by the weight of a man’. In a patriarchal society, though women are suppressed, they are not totally submissive and innocent as their true self is veiled by the deceptive appearance. Throughout the play, women are used as a means to showing off male honour. Women are defined in connection with men, such as wife, mother and daughter. Therefore, Hero is addressed by characters as â€Å"Leonato’s Hero, your Hero, every man’s Hero† and â€Å"the old man’s daughter†. With the image of jewel, women are like the property of men which can help boast male honour. As Hero possesses the socially desirable qualities, such as beauty, modesty and chastity, Leonato once says that Hero is â€Å"mine I loved, and mine I praised, and mine that I was proud on†. Owing to having Hero as Leonato’s daughter, Don Pedro even lauds him as an â€Å"honourable father†. When Leonato misinterprets that Don Pedro eyes on Hero, he considers it extremely honourable. To him, it is even like a dream. Put it simply, Leonato’s male ego hinges on both Hero’s own qualities and her attraction to Don Pedro with high social stat us. Women are also used as aShow MoreRelatedMuch Ado About Nothing Essay1110 Words   |  5 PagesEnglish Essay The Elizabethan Worldview and Much Ado About Nothing Audrey Hernandez The Elizabethan Era is one of the most fascinating periods in the History of the World. It is named after one of the greatest of the Queens of England - Queen Elizabeth I. It was the era of the very first Theatres in England - William Shakespeare and the globe Theatre and Christopher Marlowe! It also had a very different feel and look to it than we experience nowadays and this is shown in the marriage and weddingRead More Much Ado About Nothing - The Importance Of Noting Essay1155 Words   |  5 Pages Discuss The Importance Of Noting In Much Ado About Nothing Noting, or observing, is central to many of the ideas in Much Ado About Nothing. The word nothing was pronounced as noting in Elizabethan times, and it seems reasonable to presume that the pun was intended by Shakespeare to signal the importance of observation, spying and eavesdropping in the play. As a plot device, these occurrences propel the action and create humour and tension. The perils of noting incorrectly are portrayed and thisRead MoreMuch Ado About Nothing - the Importance of Noting1230 Words   |  5 PagescenterbDiscuss The Importance Of Noting In Much Ado About Nothing/b/center br brNoting, or observing, is central to many of the ideas in Much Ado About Nothing. The word nothing was pronounced as noting in Elizabethan times, and it seems reasonable to presume that the pun was intended by Shakespeare to signal the importance of observation, spying and eavesdropping in the play. As a plot device, these occurrences propel the action and create humour and tension. The peri ls of noting incorrectlyRead MoreHow Shakespeare Dramatically Presents Power and Authority in the Relationship Between Men and Women in Much Ado About Nothing1582 Words   |  7 PagesBetween Men and Women in Much Ado About Nothing One of the key explorations of power and authority in â€Å"Much Ado About Nothing† is the relationship between Hero and Leonato as father and daughter. The play was written in Elizabethan England, and social attitudes of the period, together with long standing tradition, influence Shakespeare’s portrayal of the â€Å"proper† relationship between father and daughter, and duty they owed to each other. In â€Å"Much Ado About Nothing† it is veryRead MoreMuch Ado About Nothing Gender Inequality Essay1176 Words   |  5 Pages Much Ado About Nothing is one of Shakespeare’s more popular plays, a comedy loved by many, and produced still to this day. However, behind all the wordplay, misconception, and pranks Shakespeare successfully exposes the dark, ugly truth about gender roles and inequality within the Elizabethan society. The inequality of genders is prevalent in Beatrice’s language, how the male characters view women within the play, and the concept of honor. Beatrice is easily one of theRead MoreComedy in Much Ado about Nothing Essay1469 Words   |  6 Pagesï » ¿Explore the importance of disguise and deception in Much Ado about Nothing. Are they merely effective plot devices? Much Ado about Nothing was written by William Shakespeare in 1598, towards the middle of his career and during the reign of Queen Elizabeth. Disguise and deception are used to great comic effect, as well as to drive the main and sub-plot forward. However, an attentive audience may notice how disguise and deception can also be seen to develop characters and relationships, and showRead More Portrayal of Women in William Shakespeares Plays Essay3560 Words   |  15 PagesWilliam Shakespeares characterization of women varies immensely from one comedy to another. In his works, Taming of the Shrew, The Merchant of Venice, and Much Ado About Nothing, he portrays both dominant and submissive women. Ultimately, Shakespeare examines the complexity of women by displaying the vast array of attitudes, emotions, and their treatment and reaction to men as well as refuting the typical subservient wife role. In Shakespeares The Taming of the Shrew, the difficultiesRead MoreUsing the Plays â€Å"Much Ado About Nothing† and â€Å"the Rover†, Discuss and Compare Each Play’s Treatment of Women.1995 Words   |  8 Pagesplays â€Å"Much Ado About Nothing† and â€Å"The Rover†, discuss and compare each play’s treatment of women. The Renaissance comedy, ‘Much Ado About Nothing’, written by Shakespeare in 1600 during the Elizabethan era, addresses male inconstancy and female persecution; how women are controlled by the prevailing patriarchal system. Hero, the conventional heroine, is a ‘shrinking violet’, who suffers character assassination through male actions. ‘The Rover’, written in 1677 for the Restoration society of CharlesRead MoreOn the other hand, Shakespeare also maintains the feminine ideal through the use of disguise. In700 Words   |  3 Pagesthe use of disguise. In Much Ado About Nothing Hero loses her feminine ideals through Claudio’s dishonour, however the use of concealment allows her to regain her ideals. Hero’s death is symbolic as it is seen as her ‘rebirth’, as it induces remorse in Claudio and cleanses her name of infamy ‘One Hero died defiled, but I do live.. and surely as I live, I am a maid’. Hero’s dishonour is paramount, as the destruction of a women was seen as their undoing in a Renaissance society. Mary Rose discusses theRead MoreHow Far Do You Agree That Good Comedy Is Tragedy Narrowly Averted1677 Words   |  7 PagesHow far do you agree that Much Ado About Nothing shows the truth of the claim that â€Å"good comedy is tragedy narrowly averted†? â€Å"Good comedy is tragedy narrowly averted†: these words were spoken by Jonathon Bate and Eric Rasmussen in their publishing of ‘William Shakespeare: Complete Works’. They show how many elements of comedy could be interpreted as almost tragic. The comedy in Much Ado About Nothing is often created when the audience can see that something could go horribly wrong, however it

The Digital Divide free essay sample

To what extent is there a global dimension to this divide? Is the divide narrowing or widening? The digital divide marks the gap between those who have access and utilize Information communication technologies and those who lack access or ability (reference). Causes for this division have traditionally stemmed through economic circumstance. Due to the existing disproportions between countries economic situations, a large global dimension exists within the digital divide. Socio-demographic factors also significantly affect ones positioning on the spectrum of the digital divide. Through examination it becomes clear that the gap in some senses is showing signs of narrowing. On the other had however, these factors are enhancing the gap and widening the divide for some. The increasing advancements within Information communication technologies and explosion of Internet possibilities within developed countries are leaving developing nations behind. The 21st century has not hindered concern surrounding this digital divide within international agencies such as the United Nations Development Program (Norris 2000). The disparities between developing societies and advanced are considered to be increasing and gap widening. This lends itself to putting countries at an economic advantage or disadvantage, leading to many flow-on effects. Poorer nations such as India, Africa, and southern parts of Asia have been in large, unable to invest in the internationally growing technologies, which would allow their nation to have and maintain Internet access, due to the initial start up investment necessary (Reference). A country not having Internet access in today’s digital age leads to a number of economic consequences. This can be highlighted through; schools being unable to educate or teach students IT skills, preventing them from taking advantage of the huge amounts of information accessible through the web. Therefore people are not growing up with the skills required to get ahead or keep up with this digital era. Ultimately this lack of IT skills results in the inability to compete within the global market or at an international level. Contrasting to this, richer countries are taking advantage of these advancing ICTs, benefiting from more highly trained people who will ultimately lead to higher economic growth (reference). At a fundamental level, this concept illustrates the significant consequences for countries without access to the ICTs and the way in which the revolution of these has allowed developed countries to gallop ahead of those developing who still lack access. In correlation to this divide, at the disadvantage of the poor, the rich get richer. The digital divide works along side other forms of social inequality and is effecting people not only globally but with in a national sense also (Korupp amp; Szydlik 2005). It has been indicated that groups that are the most venerable in society are those who lack access to a computer. They run the risk of being excluded from possible social, educational, cultural and economic benefits. This may have adverse effects on their educational outcomes, employment prospects and other aspects of wellbeing (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2003). These marginalized people have been deemed to fall into categories of; low income, elderly, lacking in education, and minorities (Winter 2000). The flow on effects of this proves to become more complex than one might initially perceive. Those who are able to afford access to the most advanced technologies and efficient versions are able to capitalize on their existence. Findings support, in 1998, households with an income of $75,000 and above, were nine time as likely to have computer access, and twenty times more likely to have internet access than those of lower income levels (Norris 2000). This disparity can lead to increasing divides in an economic sense as mentioned, but also in a social context. For example, a West German, well educated male has a significantly higher chance of being on the favorable side of societies digital divide, in comparison to the likes of a Turkish women with a lower income and education (Korupp amp; Szydlik 2005). Whilst there currently is lacking evidence to indicate a decline in other forms of social disparity due to computer and Internet access, these members at the adverse end of social classes are not benefiting through this digital emergence. Thus their position is remaining the same. On the other end of the spectrum however, there are indicators suggesting this emergence is helping to secure or even increase the favorable social position of these in higher social classes. Thus the digital divide is arguable contributing towards further divisions among social classes, enhancing not only economic division, but social hierarchy on a national and international scale. Research suggest the environment in which a person is born into and raised, determines ones attitudes towards new technologies (reference). This is globally and most certainly influenced through geographic positioning, however also through the era in which one grew up. Sackmann and Weymann (1995), developed an approached, depicting four ideal types; the pre-technical generation (born before 1939), the generation of household revolution (born between 1939 and 1948), the generation of advanced household technology (born between 1949 and 1964), followed by the computer generation (born after 1964). Evidence suggests those who were born in the computer generation are considerably more inclined to advance with these new information communication technologies, enhancing potential to benefit both socially and economically. According to a 2008 survey, ninety percent of adults between the ages of eighteen to twenty nine use the internet, contrasting to this only thirty five percent of those over sixty five use the internet (Hwang 2008). This highlights the way the digital divide has widened as those from the pre-technical generation and generation of household revolution have fallen further and further behind (Korupp amp; Szydlik 2005). As a result, the division has worked at the advantage to those catorgised within the younger generation. It has enabled them with a potential competitive edge in the global market place. Through efficient use of these information communication technologies it is now easier than ever before to compete on an international scale (reference). Incorporating these devices into ones lifestyle so readily has equipped younger generations with empowering opportunities. The gap between age groups within countries is still a dividing factor within digital usage, however it must be noted that the significance of this is declining (Chen, Wellman 2004). People are now being born into a world where the digital technologies such as the Internet are considered a tool for daily life, more intergraded than ever before. Flow on effects of this have resulted in people incorporating a range of technologies into their lifestyle from a very young age, through this they are able to adopt with advancements made within technologies more readily (the children’s article). This the gap between digital divide within age groups is bridging as more and more people are being brought up surrounded by the concept, thus the divide in this sense can be seen to be narrowing. At the other end of the divide are those developing countries which lack access altogether. As mentioned earlier, the gap here has been widening and continues to do so, however It can be argued that ultimately these digital technologies could in fact be of the most benefit to these currently missing out. They have the abilities to provide them with the opportunity to strengthen the voice of such minorities. For example, the Internet offers broader communication, which could enable small businesses from the likes of Africa or India to sell their products directly to customers internationally. This would exclude the current costly middlemen necessary for these products to be exchanged. In turn, creating larger economic revenue and wider exposure with the opportunity to grow. In order for these countries to gain these potential benefits, a basic level of access is required which is still lacking, thus until this is occurs the gap will continue to widen (Norris 2000). Statistics do however show hope for these countries, which have initially been left with adverse effects of the digital divide. As Information communication technologies advance, basic assess becomes cheaper and more widely accessible. An example of this can be illustrated through the likes of South America. During the year of 2000 South America had a approximately only one in ten people online. This is contrasting to 2012’s figures, which estimate 48. 2% on the population engaging with Internet penetration (http://www. internetworldstats. com/stats2. htm 2012). Furthermore, worldwide Internet users jumped from 1 billion in 2005, to approximately 2 billion in 2010. This trend is through numerous factors including; the spread of mobile phones with web capabilities, cheaper technologies, the growth and range of internet providers, and adoption of government investments within digital industries (reference). Though there are still countries with entrenched digital exclusion such as Africa, which has a mere 15. 6%, online penetration, changes shown through the likes of South America, confirm that accessibility enhancement is occurring in a global dimension. The divide in this sense is continuing to widen between countries without access but narrowing in relation to the amount of countries and regions in which this is happening to. In summary a degree of causes, consequences on both global dimensions and national levels surrounding the digital divide are highlighted. There are of course further factors and consequences that are effecting this division, however at a basic level the above provides understanding to the factors surrounding the digital divide. Through these analogies it is fair to say that whilst the digital divide can be seen as narrowing in a domestic sense, on wider global sense the gap will continue to widen until access is more readily available for all.

Toyota Corporation Production

The key drivers to the success of Toyota before the crisis Production and operations management The actual production and delivery of products including the operational management was essential to the success of Toyota. The company’s product design incorporated product process, planning and implementing production processes as well as acquiring and organizing resources.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Toyota Corporation Production specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More With this broad scope, the production and operation functions had a fundamental role in the company’s ability to attain the set goals and objectives before the crisis. Besides, the operations managers were familiar with the concepts and issues that surrounded the functional area. The basic performance objectives that pertained to all operations including quality, speed, flexibility, dependability and cost were well planned and realized. Thu s, Toyota Company was successful in meeting these objectives through its production and operation function. Over decades, Toyota operations were streamlined thus resulting in the popularly known Toyota Production System (TPS). The TPS was conceived when the company realized that producing massive quantities from limited product line to achieve maximum economies of scale led to flaws. Its major objectives were to reduce cost, eliminate waste and respond to the changing needs of the customers. Under this system, quality was considered as doing things right via the provision of error free products that satisfied the targeted customers. Conversely, Toyota vehicles were among the leading brands in customer satisfaction. Voting Toyota as the best annual vehicle by most marketplace reviews indicated that the company had an appealing reputation globally. Due to good quality, Toyota success had kept growing and in 2009 the company was the best worldwide. Moreover, Toyota was keen on producin g quality vehicles with many technologies that improved the performance of the vehicles. The TPS method applied during operation focused on the reduction of complications via the use of undersized and uncomplicated machineries that were elastic and strong. On the other hand, rescheduling run and outline to promote plainness enhanced the pace of manufacturing and assembling Toyota vehicles.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Another driver to the success of Toyota was dependability, which implied timely working to ensure that customers got their products within the promised time. Toyota had included just in time manufacturing method comprising of experienced employees who worked in cooperation while the Kanban management assisted the team in delivering manufactured goods and services as guaranteed. Every worker, mechanical expert, and director was concerned with the improvement of value and effectiveness of Toyota vehicles. The organization admired making adjustments while developing receptive and supple structures that helped in dealing with the changing trade settings. Inside the company’s production area, Toyota Corp had the ability to attain large-scale flexibility whilst manufacturing tiny product bunches that hardly generated any value or output loss. Team working in TPS From this case, the corporation emerged to be among the few vehicle producers in the automobile industry, which constantly generated profits during and subsequent to the 1974 oil disaster. Due that crisis, producers that rivaled Toyota envied and visited the company in order to find out the reasons behind Toyota’s triumph in the declining souk environment. The company’s discovery was the unique team working of the Japanese who utilized scientific management rules. Japanese team working was very dissimilar to that which became prominent in the American and Europea n companies in the 1960s and 1970s. The Japanese team working usually referred to as Toyotaism implied a certain form of work organization that emphasized on lean production. The technique combined the JIT creation methods; dilemma-resolving groups, job consistency, as well as influential first-line administration and nonstop but succeeding Toyota process step up. All these drivers contributed to the success of Toyota before the crisis. The JIT manufacturing scheme attempted to accomplish the clients’ requests devoid of generating any waste products while offering faultless value. Organization and scheduling of various Just in time approaches took into consideration draw arrangement, staged forecasting, Kanban organization, flow harmonization, and assorted reproduction development. Besides, Toyota was one of the biggest players in transforming Japan into being a kingpin in automotive production. Other companies which had adopted the company’s production system increase d efficiency and productivity. Thus, Toyota was developing over the years since the industry’s analysis of the best plant winners showed that the company used lean manufacturing techniques extensively.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Toyota Corporation Production specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The primary causes of this crisis The Toyota Corp experienced a crisis in the fiscal 2010 subsequent to its vehicles being involved in industrial accident. The quality of Toyota started to fall impulsively despite attaining its 2010 Global Vision. With the potential fatal defects, it was essential for the Corporation to stop its manufacturing in several areas and recall back cars ranging to more than a million. The TMC crisis arose primarily due to the inability of the company to manage its quality given the hurried expansion and unique production philosophy. Besides, Toyota’s poor quality production increa sed following the Second World War that left the company with competitive disadvantage. Conversely, Toyota Corp was suffering from financial problems while struggling with quality problems. In a war- desolated economy, Toyota considered it necessary to exploit low costs while producing a wide range of vehicles. Nevertheless, the competency that drove the American giant car manufacturers was inappropriate for car fabrication in Japan thus generating crisis. The American techniques highlighted large consignments made on specialized machines. Hence, the crisis augmented due to little capital meant for business venture after the warfare. That is, the system proved not to be cost-effective particularly for low-volume demand. The crisis also came due to surplus rework needed during the production of faulty products and surplus inventory of finished products, work in progress, and raw materials. In addition, the deprived product and instrument design resulting into the erroneous over-produ ction and overindulgent movement of products past the necessary production procedure also caused the crisis. Finally, the pointless waiting of tools and personnel for the subsequent production and over manufacturing ahead of demand are some wastes that increased the Toyota crisis. The adjustment of Toyota after the crisis In case of a major crisis, Toyota should adjust by shutting down its production or operations in areas that were affected most and particular products that underperformed in such a situation. For example, during the 2008 financial crisis the company closed down its production of large vehicles for some time and switched the factory that produced SUVs into that which produced Priuses. This adjustment was also evident during the Japanese earthquakes when Toyota suspended its operation in plants within the affected region. The company should also respond by eliminating some of its workforce especially the temporary workers in the affected facilities. This included ext ending leaves and making such employees work on part time basis. Toyota may similarly minimize the remuneration for plant managers and reduce bonus for every salaried workforce.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Since the crisis affected Toyota employees and customers directly, the company should ensure that the stakeholders are aware of the changes. When crisis ends, Toyota should establish a committee that takes the opinions of employees and customers in the affected areas in order to determine the most appropriate crisis adjustment strategies. The committee should be responsible for devising methods to explain the reasons for the adjustments and the benefits they have for the stakeholders. The employees should be given options to extend their leaves or get assistance to secure other jobs. Through this strategy, Toyota will maintain good relationship with customers and employees affected by the crisis. This essay on Toyota Corporation Production was written and submitted by user Alyssa Thornton to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Understanding the Arts Essays

Understanding the Arts Essays Understanding the Arts Essay Understanding the Arts Essay Understanding the Arts Name: Course: Institution: Instructor: Date: Understanding and Evaluating the Arts â€Å"Art is the expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, typically in a visual form such as painting or sculpture, producing works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power† (Oxford dictionary, 2012). It can also be taken to be â€Å"A selective re-creation of reality according to an artist’s metaphysical value judgments† (Aynrand, 2012). Art can be expressed via various forms. Painting, sculpture, and printmaking are just a few examples of this. As shown by the overall definition, all types of art are interconnected. Painting â€Å"At the Lapin Agile† is a painting by Spanish artist Pablo Picasso in 1905. The medium used is oil on canvas measuring 39 by 39.5 inches. It depicts a bar scene in Montmartre featuring the painter as a sad clown nursing a drink. There is also a gaudy woman and a guitarist sitting against a wall (Metropolitan Museum of Art, 2012). The painting exemplifies the art via the painter’s vivid interpretation of his reality in the bar scene and the emotions expressed in the characters. This work was based on real life. Sculpture American artist Harriet Whitney Frishmuth lived from 1880 to 1980. One of her most famous works â€Å"The vine† created in 1924 was inspired by famous female dancers. The bronze sculpture measures 83.5 by 28.5 inches. It depicts a nude female dancer caught up in her performance, a moving portrayal of a living vine. She is holding a grapevine on outstretched hands (Metropolitan Museum of Art, 2012). The application of creativity in bringing movement to a bronze figure to show the beauty of dance is in line with the definition of art. Architecture The Taj Mahal in Agra, India was built as a tomb by an Emperor called Jahan for his second wife Mumtaz in the 17th century. It was designed by a Persian called Ustad Issa Khan Effendi. The white marble assumes different tones depending on the light changes. It has a variety of rich fittings such as Persian carpets, silver and gold lamps. The walls have detailed carvings and abstract motifs. Some of them have writings of the Koran as a decorative feature. A red sandstone path leads to a three-storey sandstone octagon shaped entrance with two smaller rooms at its side (Agra India Organization, 2012). Art in the form of architecture was used as an expression of the emperor’s deep emotions. The creative skill of the designer is shown by the keen attention to detail of the carvings and the resultant beauty. Photography Aaron Siskind’s photograph â€Å"Harlem, Most Crowded Block† was taken in 1940. The medium used is Gelatin silver print, and it measures 14 by 11 inches. Contrary to what its title suggests, the composition of the photograph is anything but crowded. It features a young woman with one hand akimbo talking to a little boy on a sidewalk. The wall behind them is dirty and so big that it dwarfs the two (Silverstein, 2012). This photograph demonstrates the use of art to be appreciated by its emotive power. The expression of the little boy evokes a feeling of curiosity and the desire to know the topic under discussion in the viewer. Conceptual Art Conceptual art is well demonstrated by the works of modern British conceptual artist David Shrigley, in particular by his work the â€Å"Light Switch†. This downloadable game features an animated hand and a light switch on an iPhone screen. â€Å"Players control the hand to poke the light switch, and as the switch alternates, the player’s screen goes black, as if the light had gone off on their phones. A counter in the top left marks the number of times the light is flipped† (Chayka, 2010). The use of the artist’s interpretation of reality to form a message concurs with the definition of art as the selective interpretation of reality. Printmaking Sebald Beham`s woodcut print â€Å"Large Church Festival† is a rich composition of several scenes depicting the rowdy Sunday peasant party scenes common in 16th century in Nuremberg city, Germany. The Print is officially dated in 1535 A.D. by the British museum and is 360mm high and 140mm wide (Britishmuseum, 2012). This work demonstrates the creative skill of the artist by the intricate detail depicting realistic scenes of day-to-day life. It has the emotive power of age-old human, social activities that people can identify with. Installation Art An interesting example of Installation Art is the scale model of a part of the â€Å"Running Fence† of Sonoma and Marin Counties in California. It was constructed from May to August in 1976. Creation of the model was a collaboration between Christo, a Bulgarian, Jeanne Claude, a Moroccan ,and Gregory Johnson, an American. The model is made of wood, cardboard, and paper. It measures an average of 22 x 57x 36inches on a scale of 1:200 metric (Smithsonian, 2012) The artist’s creative power is shown by his unique idea of displaying the beauty of a simple object. It sends the message of the reality of work often needed to make simple items of great importance. Performance Art â€Å"Ballet is an artistic dance form performed to music, using precise and highly formalized set steps and gestures.† It is characterized by light, graceful movements and the use of pointed shoes with reinforced toes (Oxford, 2012). Ballet is exemplified as an art form by its expression of feelings and stories via rhythmic movements of the body. These stories are often the metaphysical reality of the dancers being projected to audience. The movements also display the creativity involved in using movement to imitate the realistic characters of objects and individuals. References Agra India organization. (2012). Architecture of Taj Mahal. Retrieved from: agraindia.org.uk/taj-mahal/architecture/index.html Ayn Rand Institute. (2012). Essentials of Objectivism. Retrieved from: www.aynrand.org/ British Museum. (2012). Sebald Beham, Large Church Festival. Retrieved from: www.britishmuseum.org/explore/highlights/highlight_objects/pd/s/sebald_beham,_large_church_fes.aspx Buce silverstein gallery of Aaron Siskind Foundation. (2012). Retrieved from: http://brucesilverstein.com/galleries.php?gid=543i=8page=next Chayka, K. (2012). David Shrigley`s â€Å"Light Switch† iphone application. Retrieved from: www.artinfo.com/news/story/760302/app-art-david-shrigleys-light-switch-takes-a-swipe-at-conceptual-art-on-the-iphone Metropolitan Museum of art. (2012). â€Å"Harriet Whitney Frishmuth: The Vine (27.66)†. In Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History. New York: the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Retrieved from: metmuseum.org/toah/works-of-art/27.66 Metropolitan Museum of art. (2012). â€Å"Pablo Picasso: At the Lapin Agile (1992.391)†. In Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History. New York: the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Retrieved from: www.metmuseum.org/toah/works-of-art/1992.391 Oxford dictionary. (2012). Retrieved from: www.oxforddictionaries.com/definition/english/art Smithsonian American Art Museum. (2012). Installation exterior. Retrieved from: www.americanart.si.edu/collections/search/artwork/?id=77578 Wolf, J. (2012). Conceptual Art. Retrieved from: www.theartstory.org/movement-conceptual-art.htm

Algebra Basics What You Need to Know in One Article!

Algebra Basics What You Need to Know in One Article! All Algebra Basics in One Place! To understand algebra deeply, you need to learn some basics first. This article will help you to start. It contains info that helps to go further in learning. The high school encourages us to study many complex disciplines and one of them is Algebra. For many students, this is a challenging subject as it requires a deep understanding of math and being able to conduct operations like adding, subtracting, multiplying, dividing and their various combinations. In this article, you will learn how to cope with algebra challenges and ease the process of learning. Main Things You Need to Know about Algebra All the math operations have to be used in a particular order. To remember it you can use the acronym PEMDAS. Know how to work with negative numbers. The main thing you need to understand that the bigger the number, the more distance from zero points. When you have a big task, divide it into smaller ones to organize the solving process. Start every new stage from the new line. Learn how to deal with variables that represented as letters (like x, y, z) and cannot perform number functions. When you have combines equations with letter and numbers, try to exclude any numbers during the available algebra operations. As we already mentioned, one of the useful tricks can be the PEMDAS approach. This tool was designed to memorize the right math operation order. To cut the story short, we will not discuss in details why it is so, but only decode the acronym: Parenthesis; Exponents; Multiplication; Division; Addition; Subtraction. Shortly speaking, why this order is important in algebra, then you need to keep in mind that the wrong order will lead to the wrong results. For instance, when you have an issue like 8+74 and start with adding operation before multiplying, you will get 60, that will be definitely wrong. According to basic math rules you need to multiply the numbers first and then conduct the adding operations. Eventually, you will get 36 that will be the right result recognizable for everyone. To get the right answers all the time we have to follow this rule. Basic Principles of Algebra Let’s start with the main operations. The first thing will be arithmetic. Every student who learns algebra must know the principles of arithmetic. Since the elementary schools, we are being taught how to deal with adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing. That is why most people do not have any difficulties with such tasks. Algebra, in general, is almost completely based on these operations. But the complexity of it lies in various formulas, equations and substitution of numbers with symbols. If you have any problems with understanding these aspects, you can learn them on your own using the available online resources and books on math. To obtain skills in algebra you need to learn the basics step by step. If you think that working with numbers is not your passion, you have to realize that there is no need to be an expert in math to understand the main elements of algebra. Even if you study some humanitarian disciplines like journalism, law or languages, you still can learn some simplest equations first and train your counting skills. All the more complicated formulas and issues are required for students who plan to study accounting or statistics etc. In some cases, students may be assigned to write academic papers on this subject and they may get benefits from special writing services to get high results and improve their skills. You also can use a calculator that may help in solving basic tasks and concentrate on more important ones. Also, some software like Excel can be helpful in solving algebra tasks with accuracy. In this case, you need to know how and when to use the available tools. These skills are required not only for students but for people who deal with similar issues. But when it comes to exams, keep in mind that the only tools you are allowed to use there are your calculator and a pen. Any additional tools, devices, and helpful materials are forbidden there. To ease the process of taking such exams and save time you need to know perfectly how your calculator works and what problems it helps to solve. How to Deal with Negative Numbers? The biggest challenge for many pupils was the understanding that -/- gives + while -/+ remains the -. But this is the basic thing we had to memorize. Negative numbers are used very often in algebra, accounting, statistics, economics, and other subjects that are related to math and you need to have particular knowledge. We can start with basic operations like adding, multiplying, subtracting and dividing to realize how everything works in order to move to the same processes with negatives. Keep in mind that negative number located on the same distance from zero as the positive equivalent, but the direction is the opposite. You can draw or imagine the line to make visual proof of what number is bigger. When you add one negative to another you get even more negative number. You see that the digit is higher, but it keeps its negative meaning with a minus sign. So it will be lower considering the number line. When you subtract the negatives, you can consider it as adding a positive number. When you divide or multiply negative numbers, you will always get a positive result. When you divide or multiply a negative number with a positive one, in this case, you will always get a negative result. The Structure of Algebra Problems Like when you work on a research paper or an essay, in solving algebra problems you should follow the particular structure as well. Yes, you probably will need to provide a short answer, but the whole process of solving should be displayed on paper in a particular order to follow your thoughts. This is really important when you have to deal with long problems. They may have various approaches for solving, and each of them may require a lot of time. If you do not want to miss anything or make a mistake, you need to start every new step with a new line and number each line. If you have a problem with the two-sided equation, then it is better to put every part of the solving process under each other. This will let you control the process and spot any possible mistakes quickly. For instance, if you have to solve the equation 12/6 – 2 + 5 x4, you should organize your work in the following way: 12/6 – 2 + 5 x4 12/6 – 2 + 20 2 – 2 + 12 0 + 12 13 This approach applies to any algebra problem. When you organize it in the step-by-step order, you will make your learning more effective. How to Work with Variables and Their Definition If you have to pass the SAT, then you need to know algebra well. So you need to understand at least the main principles first. Learn more about SAT test scores and find any other useful info on this aspect. Reaching satisfactory results will help you with entering college. One of the primary conditions is knowledge of what variables are and how to work with them. In SAT you will definitely have tasks with these elements. Also, sometimes we add letters and symbols to the numbers. As a rule, they serve as a substitution to the unknown numbers when you need an extra figure to fit the formula, for instance. That is why they are called variables. We do not know their value, and in some cases, it is not easy to discover it. However, you sometimes even do not have to see the value to solve the task. All you need is to use the right formulas and interpret the right. Here are the examples of variables used in algebra: Latin letters like a, b, c, x, y; Greek letters like theta or beta; the symbol pi, or Ï€, also is considered as a variable. In any case, you should consider these symbols as unknown numbers. In most tasks, you need to find the value of the unknown numbers by using the basic formulas. Here is the example of such tasks: 6x+6=18, where we have X as a variable. This means that we do not know its value but we can define it using the information from other numbers. We need to make both sides equal to 18. We subtract the 6 from 18 and have 12. As we know, 62=12, then we have found out that X means 2. Another approach to understanding the variables is the substituting them with question marks. For example, you need to solve the equation 2+5+x=15, so imagine it as 2+5+?=15. It is obvious that the answer here is 8. But how to act if you have more than one variable in your task? This can be solved simply in algebra as well. Consider them as a regular number in this case. Any arithmetical operations can be done with variables of the same meaning. When x+x=3x, then x+y will have another meaning (for instance, 3xy). Let’s discover how this works with this equation: 1x+3x=8. You can add parts 1x and 3x as they have the same variable and you will get 4x. Since we have 4x=8, then we can easily assume that x=2. But this approach is applicable to the same variable only. â€Å"Cancelling† Principle: How it Works You can get the variable in another way. When we have an equation, we may have numbers and variables from both sides. For example, you may have a task like x+5=83. You need to separate the variables from the numbers. So we need to exclude the number â€Å"5† from the right side and put it on the left. But you have to do so by changing its positive meaning to the negative one. So you will get an equation like this: x=83-5. Now you need simply to solve the basic math task and you will get: x=24-5=19. A piece of cake. Let’s discuss how we can to cancel the addition. When we have the unknown number on one side, this means we can replace the known numbers on another one. We have to conduct the opposite operation. As we know, adding and subtracting are the opposite operations. That is why in our example we have subtracted the 5 to compensate its missing on the first side. This is one of the basics of algebra that you need to know for sure. You can also use this principle when you deal with multiplication and division. As you can see, starting understanding algebra can be not so hard. Train Your Skills More If you feel that you need more training to memorize algebra basics, you can use the visual elements to get the info better. You can use images in order to illustrate any algebra issue like formulas, equations, etc. During lessons teachers sometimes use any available physical objects to enhance the understanding of the concepts. How to deal with â€Å"common sense check†? This is one more opportunity to get deeper algebra insight. Anytime you present a written problem with the algebraic elements. You can check the formula by using the simple numbers. You can choose whether the equation is meaningful by replacing x with 0 or 1. Moreover, you do not always have to get around or straightforward number after solving the math problem. The answer may contain irrational numbers, decimals, fractions, and others. This is the reason you should bring the calculator. You will be informed of what form will be suitable for each problem. If you are confident in your algebra skills, check how you deal with factoring. This is one of the most complicated aspects of math. This approach is used to make the ling equations shorter and simpler. This section is considered as semi-advanced algebra. You can practice by applying algebra approaches to real-life situations. To get the algebra better, you should not only memorize the formulas but to use them and practice. This is the only way you will keep in mind at least basics. If you deal with finances, you can train your skills as well. Part-time or season job can also be useful in practicing your skills. You can also use your knowledge for obtaining related disciplines like accounting, economics, etc. By the way, math, and algebra, in particular, is also required for understanding computer sciences. This discipline is vital for engineering and constructing too. If you still consider that you cannot solve the math or algebra problem correctly, you can ask for professional assistance and order the writing help from experts who will help you to shape and correct your solutions.

Mann Ltd Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Mann Ltd - Coursework Example This is supported by the above given ratios. Return on capital employed has dropped to 19.8% in 2010 as compared to 31% in 2009. This downward shift is attributed to a sharp descent in net profits. The rise in assets has failed to show an increase in income of the company. Sales of the company has shown an increase but factors associated with sales like operating profit margin and gross profit margin has shown an inverse trend. Operating profit margin has declined from 19.8% in 2010 to 13.9% in 2010. Adding to the misery is declining gross profit margins, a substantial decline from 42% in 2009 to 37.5% in 2010. Sales figure has shown an increase but the company has failed to maintain gross and operating profit margin due to increasing costs. Company’s liquidity position has shown a slight decline from 2009. Current asset ratio has dropped from 4.8 times in 2009 to 4.6 times in 2010. The company’s liquidity in terms of current asset ratio is appropriate and should do wel l in years to come. However, acid tests shows a sharp decline. It has dropped to 3.6 in 2010 in comparison to 4.2 in the previous year. This is due to a disproportionate increase in current asset and liabilities. Furthermore, inventory holds a major share in the current asset in 2010.Trade settlement period is of particular interest to a manager in Mann Ltd. The time period has deteriorated in the current year. High volumes of sales have been on credit in the recent year, which is evident figures that have grown from 306 in 2009 to 468 in 2010.

Donald Judd Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3250 words

Donald Judd - Research Paper Example remember Judd for his contribution to a form of art known as Minimalist art, architecture, his influence in modern sculpture, and many other artistic forms. Below, we explore the various forms of art that made Judd popular and have his name to be top on the list of the most influential artists. Artists and people remember Judd for using a collection of three forms: boxes, stacks, and progression that he applied throughout the thirty years of his career in art. When he began his work and practice in art, in the 1940s, his sculptural objects predominantly took the arrangement of shallow reliefs. The same concepts became evident in his work, as the artist employed commercial fabricators to get the shapes that he desired. Commercial fabricators assisted him in maintaining the simple forms of boxes and stacks, which he would often set according to sequential or repeated progressions. Judd’s idea of boxes, stacks, and progression differed and still varies from most of the art that we have in the world today. Donald Judd named his three dimensional art specific. While other forms of art were general, his was specific (Wintle 388). The various shows and artworks presented by Judd all through the years in which he practiced art exhibit how he used the same forms and pieces i n specific ways. His application of specific objects in his form of art led to his involvement and promotion of the minimalist art. Judd was a distinguished figure, who stood at the forefront of Minimalism – a word that he detested, during the 1960s and part of the 1970s. Minimal art refers to a school of sculpture and abstract painting where the artist keeps any form of expression to the bare minimal to give a total literal presence. Some regard minimalist art as extremely simple and deliberate lack of content to express. Although many forms of art fall into the description of minimal art, the name referred to artwork that sprung during the 1960s. During that time, some critics of art preferred

The Significance of African American History Essay Example for Free

The Significance of African American History Essay Dictionary. com defined the word history as â€Å"continuous† systematic narrative of past events as relation to a particular people, country, period, person, according to the meaning of the word History, it full knowledge will improve African American status. Despite the transition of Africans from West Africa to America and used them as slaves to work on tobacco and sugar plantations for many years, they had the privilege to be a part of this grate and powerful nation which empower them economically, on cultural plan and a standard of civilization. The economic aspect can be remarkable in many ways. In the book the â€Å"African American Odyssey† By Darlene Clark Hine, William C. Hine, Stanley Harold on page six said that â€Å"West Africans were making iron tools long before European arrived† Therefore African Americans worked very and used their abilities and techniques and applied them to their had duties that they had here. Blacks increased the growth of the American Nation, one example of that is how they built the white house and other various things we use in the U. S today. All their contributions increased the progress of the economy. There are a number of aspects of African American cultures that were highlighted by the period of slavery. The outcome is a powerful and unique culture that continues to have a positive effect on conventional American culture, not only to that, it extends to the broader world as well. Tough slaves played an important role in it altogether, which restricted the African Americans to practice their rich culture in America, their culture has still survived, be it their beliefs, values other practices of the society, and cultural traditions have mixed beautifully with the European American culture. Fore instance in food industry, we have French bread. When it comes to fast food, we also have a French word called French fry. Elements of civilization can also be characterized in different perspective’s. After slavery African-Americans continued to prosper. According to the Civil Rights Act of 1866 African Americans now began too share the same legal rights with white Americans. For example voting rights were permitted for African Americans. Also integrated schools were becoming more and more common as time progressed. These rights, laws and rights to education gave people like George Washington Carver chances and opportunities to have honorable personalities. In Conclusion With all these events playing out from slavery to freedom blacks have come along way. They helped the economic stand point of this nation in ways of their labor that they provided, they helped socially by bringing the African culture to America bringing things like food, and music, ect. The emancipation of blacks opened many doors, African Americans took a great toll, coming from such a dark past and and still being able to grasp the torch of education, and knowledge gave people like Barack Obama the right to sit in the seat he is in today. In my opinion the trial and triumphs they encountered were all preparations for us to conquer the future.

Changes in Operations are Needed for Future Threats and Terrorism in th

Threats and terrorism will always exist and are constantly evolving. Even after the dreadful 9/11 attacks, terrorists remain diligent at planning attacks against the United States and its allies. Although not on the same scale as the 9/11 attacks, terrorists have successfully executed plots in the United States, the United Kingdom and France. For example, on April 15, 2013, an attack at the Boston Marathon occurred, killing three people and injuring 264 individuals. In the United Kingdom, on 7 July 2005, the London bombing incidents took place. Fifty-two individuals were killed and 700 were injured. On 7 January 2015, there was a mass shooting at the satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo office in Paris. On 13 November 2015, terrorists have successfully executed the single deadliest terrorist attack in French history. Multiple shooting and grenade attacks occurred on a Friday night; among the locations targeted were a music venue, sports stadium and an ethnic restaurant. This very s hort list does not take into account the U.S., U.K. and French citizens which fall victim to the endless series of beheadings and bombing in the Middle East. No matter the type of attack or the number of casualties, terrorist activities continue have a great effect on the U.S. and its allies. Transnational crimes are constant issues as well. Transnational crimes can be terrorism, drug, weapon, and human trafficking, smuggling of goods, and cyber crimes. Adversaries in foreign nations also commit corporate espionage and implant computer viruses by infiltrating the nation’s network systems. All of these crimes affect the U.S.; therefore, it is important that law enforcement and intelligence agencies work together to limit the amount of crimes and... ...atu, S., & Fainisi, F. (2011). INTERNATIONAL CYBER SECURITY THROUGH CO-OPERATION. Economics, Management and Financial Markets, 6(2), 438-448. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com.proxy1.ncu.edu/docview/884338908?accountid=28180 Rascoff, S. J. (2010). The law of homegrown (counter)terrorism. Texas Law Review, 88(7), 1715-1749. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com.proxy1.ncu.edu/docview/722437512?accoun tid=28180 Rosen, N. (2006). Thinking like a jihadist: Iraq's jordanian connection. World Policy Journal, 23(1), 1-16. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com.proxy1.ncu.edu/docview/232587503?accountid=28180 Tokatlian, J. G. (2008). A new doctrine of insecurity? U.S. military deployment in South America. NACLA Report on the Americas, 41(5), 6-10. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com.proxy1.ncu.edu/docview/202714393?accountid=28180

E.M Forster

E. M Forster Essay â€Å"I hate the idea of causes, and if I had to choose between betraying my country and betraying my friend, I hope I should have the guts to betray my country. † It appears to me that E. M Forster does make a valuable point in her personal speculation to believe that personal relations are more important than a simple cause or patriotism. In this essay I will give reason to Forster’s opinion as well as the other view of things. Without beloved friends, not only would there be no country,but also the world would seem lonely and one would be lost. (Correlative conj. At some unexpected point in all our lives, we must come to an end, and when we do we want to be able to think, â€Å" When I must leave this world, I’m actually going to be satisfied† (complex sentence) Friends engender a certain warmth that your country will never be able to formulate within. â€Å"A friend should be one in whose understanding and virtue we can equally conf ide, and whose opinion we can value at once for its justness and its sincerity. † (Compound Sentence) This quote is a true definition of a dear friend. The comprehension between two friends is something that you simply cannot get anywhere else, let alone from your country. A single rose can be my garden, but a single friend can be my world. † Friends are roses. (metaphor) Friends blossom with you, helping you grow as a person, enlightening you, every step you take. Friendship is like a violin; the music may stop now and then, but the strings will last forever. (simile) Although this esoteric view may seem like the correct way into choosing a friend over a country, others may contradict that and think otherwise. One may think that being there for one’s country is the absolute least thing you can do to show honor and pride. The love of one's country is a splendid thing. † It’s true, having pride of what land you reside in is great. Some may argue with t he thought of standing by their country rather than a friend is a much wiser idea simply because of how your country will physically never abandon you like some friends might do over time. â€Å"Patriotism is easy to understand in America; it means looking out for yourself by looking out for your country† One can create a certain barrier of so-called protection by simply protecting their country in hope of receiving something spiritual in return.Loyalty and pride are two traits everyone should have when speaking of their homeland, how far they take it, is entirely their own path and choice to take. Overall, I agree with E. M Forster’s main idea in choosing friends over her own country if it would ever result to that. â€Å"As the year go by our friendship will never die† Even when it may not be physically visible friendship will always be there to comfort you with lengthy arms of warmth, encouragement, and companionship, traits that your own shining country will never have.

Kinetic Friction

Experiment 4: Friction Laboratory Report Anna Rucelli Ignacio Michael Giorgio Lapus Ted William Lardizabal Janell Leica Lee Department of Occupational Therapy College of Reabilitation Sciences, University of Santo Tomas Espana, Manila Philippines Abstract The experiment verifies the laws of friction with the use of a spring scale, a block of wood, its different surfaces and the different surfaces of other objects. Another part of the experiment uses the palms of the hands to produce friction then apply lubricants then see the differences. The experiment also observes the effect of air resistance on falling paper. 1. Introduction Friction is the force resisting the relative lateral (tangential) motion of solid surfaces, fluid layers, or material elements in contact. It is usually subdivided into several varieties: * Dry friction resists relative lateral motion of two solid surfaces in contact. Dry friction is also subdivided into static friction between non-moving surfaces, and kinetic friction (sometimes called sliding friction or dynamic friction) between moving surfaces. Lubricated friction or fluid friction resists relative lateral motion of two solid surfaces separated by a layer of gas or liquid. * Fluid friction is also used to describe the friction between layers within a fluid that are moving relative to each other. * Skin friction is a component of drag, the force resisting the motion of a solid body through a fluid. * Internal friction is the force resisting motion between the elements making up a solid mate rial while it undergoes deformation. Friction is not a fundamental force, as it is derived from electromagnetic force between charged particles, including electrons, protons, atoms, and molecules, and so cannot be calculated from first principles, but instead must be found empirically. When contacting surfaces move relative to each other, the friction between the two surfaces converts kinetic energy into thermal energy, or heat. Contrary to earlier explanations, kinetic friction is now understood not to be caused by surface roughness but by chemical bonding between the surfaces. Surface roughness and contact area, however, do affect kinetic friction for micro- and nano-scale objects where surface area forces dominate inertial forces. The normal force is defined as the net force compressing two parallel surfaces together; and its direction is perpendicular to the surfaces. In the simple case of a mass resting on a horizontal surface, the only component of the normal force is the force due to gravity, where N=mg. In this case, the magnitude of the friction force is the product of the mass of the object, the acceleration due to gravity, and the coefficient of friction. However, the coefficient of friction is not a function of mass or volume; it depends only on the material. For instance, a large aluminum block has the same coefficient of friction as a small aluminum block. However, the magnitude of the friction force itself depends on the normal force, and hence the mass of the block. If an object is on a level surface and the force tending to cause it to slide is horizontal, the normal force N, between the object and the surface is just its weight, which is equal to its mass multiplied by the acceleration due to earth's gravity, g. If the object is on a tilted surface such as an inclined plane, the normal force is less, because less of the force of gravity is perpendicular to the face of the plane. Therefore, the normal force, and ultimately the frictional force, is determined using vector analysis, usually via a free body diagram. Depending on the situation, the calculation of the normal force may include forces other than gravity. [pic] A common way to reduce friction is by using a lubricant, such as oil, water, or grease, which is placed between the two surfaces, often dramatically lessening the coefficient of friction. The science of friction and lubrication is called tribology. Lubricant technology is when lubricants are mixed with the application of science, especially to industrial or commercial objectives. Superlubricity, a recently-discovered effect, is the substantial decrease of friction between two sliding objects, approaching zero levels. A very small amount of frictional energy would still be dissipated. 2. Theory ?s = maximum static friction normal force ?K = kinetic friction normal force 3. Methodology For the first activity, a piece of wood was placed on top of a wooden board with a spring scale attach to it. The minimum force needed to start the motion was determined by pulling the spring balance which is numerically equivalent to the maximum static friction. The kinetic friction was determined by pulling the spring balance with constant motion. This procedure was repeated by using the other sides of the block and their fsmax and fK was recorded. For the first trial in the second activity, the fsmax and fK of the wooden block was determined. For the succeeding trials, 100g weight is added to the block every trial and their fsmax and fK was recorded. This was called the normal force which is equivalent to the weight of the block plus 100g. After getting their fsmax and fK, their  µs was calculated by using the formula  µs = fsmax/fn. Also the  µK was calculated by using the formula fK/ fn. For the first trial of the third activity, the fsmax and fK of the wooden block was determined while it was pulled over a wooden board. In the second trial, the wooden surface/board was replaced with the tiles of the floor. So the wooden block was pulled over the tiles of the floor and its fsmax and fK of the wooden block was recorded. For the third trial, sand paper was used as surface while the wooden block was pulled and its fsmax and fK was recorded. For the next trial, plastic cover was used as surface while the wooden block was pulled and its fsmax and fK was recorded. Lastly, paper/cartolina was used as surface while the wooden block was being pulled and its fsmax and fK was recorded. For the fourth activity, one member of the group was asked to rub his/her hands together for one minute. After rubbing, was asked to place his/her hands on his/her cheeks and the sensation felt was observed. The succeeding trials were done by applying powder, oil, and lotion before rubbing the hands. The sensation felt was also recorded. For the last activity, a paper was dropped over a motion detector and its terminal velocity and square of terminal activity was recorded by using a program installed in the computer. The following trials were done by adding 1 paper every trial on top of each other and were dropped on the motion detector. Its terminal and square of terminal velocity was recorded.

Financial Statement Fraud

Financial Statement Fraud Free Online Research Papers Financial statement fraud is among the most common types of fraud. It involves intentionally reporting false information in a companys financial statements. Also called â€Å"cooking the books†, financial statement fraud is also one of the most costly types of fraud. According to a study done by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners, financial statement fraud causes a median loss of $2 million per fraud scheme. A commonly used term for financial statement fraud is â€Å"earnings management†. This term almost sounds like a legitimate practice, but it is anything but that. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has defined earnings management as â€Å"the use of various forms of gimmickry to distort a companys true financial performance in order to achieve a desired result.† Not all earnings management practices are in violation of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). Some practices considered as earnings management bend the rules of GAAP in order to achieve certain financial goals, but are not in violation of them. Financial statement fraud is almost always perpetrated by the upper management of a company. They have access to nearly all information in a company and they have tremendous influence over the employees under them, which can make it possible for them to conceal the fraud. Financial statement fraud is different from most other types of occupational fraud in a major way: the goal is not usually to directly enrich the fraudster, but is usually intended to mislead third parties (investors and creditors) about the profitability of the company. The most common financial statement fraud scheme is improper revenue recognition. This can take place in two different ways: premature recognition of legitimate revenues or the recognition of fictitious revenue from fictitious sales or fictitious customers. Other common methods include the overstating of assets, the understating of liabilities and expenses, reporting revenues or expenses in the wrong period, and inadequate disclosures. THE XEROX SCANDAL A well-known case of premature revenue recognition is the Xerox scandal of 2002. On April 12th, 2002, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filed a civil fraud complaint against Xerox Corporation for alleging that they intentionally deceived the public, from 1997 to 2000, by prematurely recognizing revenues from copier machine leases on the signing date rather than over the life of the lease, as payment would become due. The issue was not with the validity of the revenues, but with their recognition. These fraudulent actions were intended to help the company meet its Wall Street expectations and to give the appearance of a healthy financial position. They did just that. Over the four year period, these actions, most of which were in strict violation of generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), prematurely increased revenues by $3 billion and pre-tax income by $1.4 billion. This was a bold move by the management of Xerox because by recognizing future revenues in the current period, it made it increasingly harder to meet earnings expectations in the future periods. In 2005, Xerox paid a settlement the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and began efforts to regain the trust of its investors. PREVENTING THE FRAUD Management and the board of directors are responsible to take the necessary steps to deter fraud in financial reporting: Setting a â€Å"tone at the top† that communicates their expectations for accurate reporting Responding quickly, equitably, and proportionately to policy violations Maintaining internal and external auditing processes independent of managements influence Ensuring a proper flow of critical information to the board and external parties Establishing an adequate system of internal control Investigating and remediating problems when they arise To understand why a fraudster does what he does and to better deter future fraud attempts, an auditor must assess three variables that are present in virtually every fraud. These three concepts, collectively, make up the fraud triangle. These factors include: Perceived incentive or pressure Perceived opportunity Rationalization In the case of the Xerox fraud, management probably felt pressure to accelerate revenue from future periods to the current period in order to meet Wall Street expectations in order to protect the financial position of the company. Pressures also may have stemmed from desires for personal benefit in the form of performance-based incentives such as bonuses or stock options. An opportunity must exist to commit fraud, and the fraudster must believe he can get away with it. Lastly, it is probably reasonable to assume that Xeroxs management did not expect to continue the fraudulent actions forever. It was probably considered a temporary fix, as both the risk of getting caught and the risk of maintaining the heightened revenues in future periods were both high. This rationalization is the final component of the fraud triangle. DETECTING THE FRAUD Perhaps the first challenge for the auditor in detecting the fraud is to recognize early any signs that material misstatement has occurred. Following is a list of steps, from SAS 99, designed to assist the auditor in identifying, evaluating, and responding to the risk of fraud: Holding discussions among the audit team concerning fraud risk Obtaining information relevant to the identification of fraud risk Identifying the risk of material misstatement due to fraud Assessing the identified risks, taking into account the internal controls designed to address those risks Responding to the results of the assessment Evaluating audit evidence The Xerox fraud was executed in collusion with auditors, but certain analytical techniques, performed by the auditor, exist to help prevent financial statement fraud schemes like the known one from happening in the future. These include: Horizontal analysiscomparison of the current periods balances with those of prior periods. Vertical, or common-size, analysiscomparison of each line item of the financial statements to another line item, such as a percentage-of-sales comparison. Comparison of the detail of a total balance with similar detail for the preceding years Ratios and other financial relationships In a fraud like the one with Xerox, where the timing of revenue recognition is manipulated, potential causes could be: pressure to meet revenue targets as the period comes to a close, a known or expected shortfall of sales transactions for the period, a known potential existence of sales that are expected but not achieved, and the opportunity to alter the dating of post period transactions in order to make them appear to have happened in the prior period. Red flags that indicate this kind of fraud include: Falsification or alteration of documents Backdating or alteration of the dates of invoices Alteration or falsification of other dating evidence that might reveal the true dates of the arrangement of delivery of the products or services rendered Some unavoidable results of financial statement frauds like Xeroxsincluding the premature recognition of revenues create a revenue deficit for the future periods. This problem causes a need to: Make up the shortfall caused by â€Å"lending† revenues to the prior period Cover the effects of any real decline in sales Achieve the expected level of sales growth When revenues are prematurely recognized and sales are declining, each period may require more and more fraudulent premature revenue recognition in order to keep up the appearance of good financial position. INVESTIGATING THE FRAUD To perform an investigation of the suspected fraud, the investigator must gather all of the necessary documents. These may include auditors working papers, internal audit reports, organizational charts, alleged smoking gun documents, electronic files, personnel listings, financial statements, public filings, e-mails, and internet postings. Interviewing the suspect is necessary to obtain admission to the fraud. A few things to consider about the interview are the time, location, who should be present, and what type of interview should be performed. An information seeking interview is conducted to obtain information about the suspected crime. Interviewing starts with the periphery of interviewing candidates and continues moving inward until the subject is interviewed. Not all people interviewed for this type of interview are suspects. An admission-seeking interview differs by its intent and the people it interviews. The intent is to eventually get the suspect to admit to the alleged crime. Only suspects of the fraud are interviewed. Often in an investigation, the forensic accounting investigator will provide a written report of investigation. Until sure whether or not a report will be requested, an investigator should always retain evidence and analyses necessary for the report. WORK CITED 1.Golden, Thomas W., Stephen L. Skalak, and Mona M. Clayton. A Guide to Forensic Accounting Investigation. Hoboken: John Wiley and Sons, Inc., 2006. 2.Financial Statement Fraud and Deterrence. 4/29/09. acfe.com/resources/fraud-101-accounting.asp. 3.The Wide-Reaching Impact of Financial Statement Fraud. 4/29/09. sequence-inc.com/index.php?option=com_contentview=articleid=41. 4.Common Financial Statement Frauds. 4/29/09. worrells.net.au/Fraud%20Awareness/tpf_financial_statement.htm. 5.Xerox Scandal. 4/29/09. corporatenarc.com/xeroxscandal.php. Research Papers on Financial Statement FraudAnalysis of Ebay Expanding into AsiaThe Project Managment Office SystemTwilight of the UAWIncorporating Risk and Uncertainty Factor in CapitalDefinition of Export QuotasPETSTEL analysis of IndiaLifes What IfsOpen Architechture a white paperResearch Process Part OneThe Relationship Between Delinquency and Drug Use

How to Use the Spanish Preposition Para

How to Use the Spanish Preposition Para Para is one of the most common Spanish  prepositions, But because para is usually translated as for, the same as por, it can also be one of the most confusing to English speakers. Unfortunately, for the beginning Spanish student, por and para are almost never interchangeable. So it is probably best to learn para and por separately and to think of para as a word that usually indicates purpose or destination, rather than simply as a translation for for. So in the examples of para usage that are given below, a translation (sometimes awkward) using a word or phrase other than for is given, in addition to a translation using for. By learning how para is used rather than how it is usually translated, you will eliminate much of the confusion. The preposition para should not be confused with the verb para, a conjugated form of parar, which means to stop. Para can also be a conjugated form of parir, which means to give birth. Para Meaning ‘In Order To’ When para is the equivalent of in order to, it is followed by an infinitive. Viajamos para aprender espaà ±ol. (We travel in order to learn Spanish. We travel for learning Spanish.)Para vender tu coche es importante que cuentes sus puntos fuertes. (In order to sell your car it is important to talk about its strong points. For selling your car it is important to talk about its strong points.)Vive para comer. (He lives in order to eat. He lives for eating.)Hay un plan maestro para destruir la civilizacià ³n como la conocemos. (There is a master plan in order to destroy civilization as we know it. There is a master plan for destroying civilization as we know it.) Para for Indicating Purpose or Usefulness The preposition can be used quite flexibly to indicate purpose, intent, usefulness, or need. It is often used in such a way that theres no simple one-word English equivalent. Estudia para dentista. (She is studying to become a dentist. She is studying for the dental profession.)Quisiera una bicicleta para dos. (Id like a bicycle for two. Id like a bicycle used by two.)Ganaron un viaje para dos. (They won a trip for two. They won a trip to be used by two.)Es hecho para nià ±os. (It is made for children. It is made to be used by children.)El poema fue escrito para su esposa. (The poem was written for his wife. The poem was written to benefit his wife.)Feliz cumpleaà ±os para ti. (Happy birthday to you. Happy birthday for you.)Tenemos agua para una semana. (We have water for a week. We have water to last a week.) ¿Para quà © estudias? (Why do you study? For what purpose do you study?) Using Para With Destinations One specific way in which para is used to indicate intent is with destinations. This is a specific way of indicating intention. In some of these cases, para can be used interchangeably with a, meaning to. Salimos para Londres. (We are leaving to go to London. We are leaving for London.)No voy para casa. (I am not going home. I am not headed for home.) ¿Para dà ³nde va el taxi? (Where does the taxi go to? Note that Spanish cannot end a sentence with a preposition in the way that English can.) Using Para for ‘No Later Than’ or ‘By’ In time statements, para can be used to indicate intent for completion of an action by a certain time. Translations can include no later than, around, about, and by. La casa estar lista para el sbado. (The house will be ready no later than Saturday. The house will be ready by Saturday. The house will be ready for Saturday.)Es necesario preparar el perro para la llegada de tu bebà ©. (It is necessary to prepare the dog for the arrival of your baby. It is necessary to prepare your dog by the time your baby arrives.)El pastel estar listo para la boda. (The cake will be ready by the wedding. The cake will be ready before the wedding. The cake will be ready for the wedding.)Llegamos para las cinco. (Were arriving around 5. Were arriving about 5. Were arriving for activities at 5.) Using Para To Mean ‘Considering’ Another use of para is to indicate perspective, the equivalent of words or phrases such as considering, in light of the fact or in view of: Para nià ±o, es inteligente. (Considering that hes a child, hes intelligent. For a child, hes intelligent.)Es caro para un papel. (Its expensive in view of the fact its a sheet of paper. Its expensive for a sheet of paper.) Using Para With Personal Reactions This is one way of indicating how a person feels or reacts to something: Para ella, es difà ­cil. (To her, its difficult. For her, its difficult.)No es justo para mà ­. (It isnt right to me. It isnt right for me.) Key Takeaways Para is a common Spanish preposition that is frequently used in indicating purpose, direction, intent, or perspective.Both para and another preposition, por, are often translated to English as for, but one of them can almost never be substituted for the other.Other possible translations for para include English prepositions such as to, at, and by as well as the phrase in order to.

Bringing extinct animals back to life Assignment

Bringing extinct animals back to life - Assignment Example This project involves withstanding painstaking research and consumption of large sums of money in the project. It also involves fighting back ethical issues raised by environmentalists concerning the undertakings. Novak and Brand represent the group of new generation who are passionate about having the extinct animals back in the global ecosystem. The author is biased in the way he present the project Revive and Restore as the solution to the extinction problem. The mission and vision of the organization trying to launch the de-extinction program which would ensure the extinct birds and animals are restored back into the ecosystem. The underlying value is down to giving conservation measures a different approach as well as the restoration of beauty of having those birds and animals around. However, the writer fails to address the issues that lead to extinction in the first place. The project Revive and Restore will consume a lot of funds which can be channeled to more conservation measure to guards the animals which are already being faced by extinction. In addition, the author fails to address the repercussion of the extinct animal regenerate upsetting the current ecosystem balance as they struggle to adapt themselves to an environment tat have changed over the decades. It is worth mentioning that the article present some valuable information about the importance of conservation. It highlights how human negligence over animal conservation can lead to a very expensive and time consuming reversal process. So what ought to be done to conserve the existing endangered species should be put in place to avoid the expensive and unproven de-extinction

Hospital administration Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

Hospital administration - Essay Example Hospital administration is an important component of a country’s health care system. Hospital administration generally refers to management of hospital in a particular country. It is actually the key component of any health agencies and/or institutions management. Hospital administration is the narrow form of health administration. This paper includes a detailed overview of health care system, health care policy and hospital administration of Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia, formally known as kingdom of Saudi Arabia, was founded by ABD AL-AZIZ bin Abd al-Rahman AL SAUD (Ibn Saud) in 1932. Saudi Arabia is renowned as the birth place of the religion Islam. The country is also the home of two holiest place in the Islam religion, Mecca and Medina. Saudi Arabia is a Middle East country with the population of approximately 28 million among which 5.6 million are foreigners. Population growth rate in Saudi Arabia is approximately 1.9%. Capital of Saudi Arabia is Riyadh where almost 3.6 million people live. There are still monarchy type of government exist in Saudi Arabia. Almost 82% of total population of the country live in urban area. Average life expectancy of total population in Saudi Arabia is 76.3 years and almost 78.8% people in the country are officially educated.1 Saudi Arabias economy is mainly oil based. Almost 20% of total petroleum reserves in world are possessed by Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia holds the number one position as far as the export of petroleum is concerned. In 2008, Saudi Arabias GDP was $527 billion, 45% of this GDP come form petroleum sector. Saudi Arabia plays an important role in OPEC as it is the largest petroleum exporter. Entire economy is controlled by the Saudi government. In 2008 countrys annual growth rate was approximately 6.1%.2 Health of the citizens is one of the major concerns for any countrys government. It is necessary

Religious Identity Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Religious Identity - Essay Example Religious identity thus refers to â€Å"a people’s ways of relating to their religion, including their association with a certain religious community, the strength of their belief in the preferred religion, and their ways of demonstrating those beliefs in their day to day lives.† It can be equated to membership to a religious grouping or community, this being regardless of the person’s religious activity or participation. It may be referred to as a specific type of Identity formation focusing mainly on group membership and the importance of the membership as pertaining to self-conception of the individual. Similar to either cultural or ethnic identities, the religious context provides generally a perception from which to view the world, a set of principles of guiding one’s lifestyle and the myriad of opportunities available of socialization with different people, generational differences regarded. As a whole, religious identity is affected by factors such as a person’s gender, generational status and ethnicity.... Religion is intricately intertwined with various aspects in the socio-cultural arena, that the above three factors are always present in the shaping of an individual’s religious identity. Ethnic differences; according to the Social Identity Theory, emerge when individuals of ethnic minority groups feel threatened in terms of identity, thus reasons for their emphasis on their social identities as a means of maintaining positive self-conception. Gender differences may impact on one’s religious identity; this being exemplified through the characteristic participation of the female gender in religious activities and in their expression of religion as being an important aspect of their lives, this being in relation to their male counterparts (Bryan Chosley Shepherd; The University of Texas at Austin. Sociology 32). Generational differences, categorized as either being first, second and third, where the first and second-generation individuals may have higher levels of religio us identity as compared to their third generation counterparts. Immigrants, in efforts of readjustments to the often-stressful changes associated with immigration, highly seek an environment provided by a place of worship that encompasses a community of emotional, financial and social support. Focus is placed on the stages of Adolescence and early Adulthood since adolescence is a developmental period that is crucial to an individual’s identity development. At this stage, there are various opportunities for the exploration of the ethnic, cultural and religious traditions present in the individual’s society, but within constraints erected by their parents or guardians. Influences can be both internal and external; depending on extent/exposure of socialization

Competition and Performance in Supermarket Industry

Competition and Performance in Supermarket Industry Analyse the management aspects of competition and performance in the supermarket industry, based on the case study given in the attachment. What role have the competitive strategies of supermarkets had in their success? In evaluating the sources of sustainable competitive advantage, which seem most important: market positioning, high levels of market power, or high levels of internal efficiency? Taking into consideration the four current dominant supermarket chains in the UK; Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury’s and Morrisions, whilst acknowledging the slightly smaller popular grocery retailers such as Waitrose and Marks and Spencer an analysis of their comparative individual strategic framework is not dissimilar in many ways. Certainly in terms of the top four providers they have increased their market share through relentless buy up of smaller local convenience stores and chains, in addition to undercutting local suppliers, making them more cost effective. This has resulted in the retail food industry becoming an Oligopoly market, where only a few firms dominate the market by way of high levels of branding, brand loyalty, stable prices and a strong interdependence between the leading stores in relation to their own strategic movements. The emphasis is on advertising campaigns and tough barriers for any new competitors to overcome. They are all benefitting considerably by their economies of sale.[1] Tesco controls over 30% of the overall British grocery market. A market position which provides it with the strength and confidence to succeed against its rival competitors. Not only is positioning integral to the strategic success of the supermarket giants. It was Wal-Marts massive buying power which ultimately enabled Asda to become the second highest retailer in the market, usurping Sainsbury’s in 2003 from its number two spot. Another key area of its successes however grew out of its ability to offer a range of non-food items, such as clothing and kitchen ware. By expanding and diversifying its products in this way it was able to increase its overall market power. In 2002 Asda’s Chief Executive Tony DeNuzio confirmed, â€Å"two thousand lines have been sourced jointly with Wal-Mart and these delivered prices unheard of in the UK market.[2] Similarly Sainsbury’s business success came under threat several years ago when its market position was threatened and eventually commandeered by Asda. It needed to increase its competitive advantage quickly and one of the main ways it achieved this was by expanding and improving its own internal communications systems. Following the decline in sales and competitive defeat to Asda it responded by initiating the Making Sainsbury’s Great Again strategy. A significant four year recovery plan which included terminating the outsourced contracting of its IT infrastructure to the company Accenture. It shifted instead to the development of its own in-house IT systems saving the company millions of pounds.[3] This internal efficiency was further enhanced in 2006 when Sainsbury’s introduced new schemes such as Try Something New Today’ which became their motto for both customers and employees with a new emphasis on training and development and colleague communication . The supermarket chain also introduced a comprehensive monthly employee survey, called Talkback providing them with an indication of the level of staff satisfaction and quality of overall service being provided to the customers. During the same year Sainsbury’s launched an apprenticeship scheme for qualifying its in-house bakers, together with a leadership scheme for its branch and regional managers, designed to improve the level of quality of its management team, in addition to empowering its own staff. A combination of new stores, new lines and internal enhancement enabled Sainsbury’s to increase their profits significantly over the last few years. In 2008 these have been confirmed as  £488 million, before tax. A rise of  £108 million compared to 2007. And an overwhelming profit increase of  £380 million for Sainsbury’s since 2006.[4] All of the factors relating to market position, market power and internal efficiency can determine the strategic effectiveness of a successful supermarket giant in terms of how they inter-relate and require shifting or reviewing depending on the situation and motivation for change. What have been the marketing strategies of supermarkets? Evaluate these strategies. Marketing Strategies appear to be progressing away from the traditional 4Ps of Product, Place, Price and Promotion as Marketing is beginning to become more about the relationship of the public to the organization itself. Markets are now so competitive that more innovative ways of attracting customers is becoming key to remaining successful. Perhaps one of the best examples of a successful marketing strategy in order to maintain its existing customer focus, in addition to gaining more direct information about them as individuals, is through Tesco’s Clubcard scheme. This scheme has enabled Tesco to create a retail strategy, to determine their customers and which market these customers fit into as well as what they are looking for from a supermarket.[5] Similarly its computers for school voucher scheme turned shopping into a means of providing equipment for schools, maintained loyalty amongst families with children, raising their profile as a community conscious organization. Asda’s marketing strategy has always focused heavily on value. In 2006 it developed a new  £45 million marketing strategy which killed off their â€Å"always low prices slogan. A whole new approach to marketing its products now fell under the umbrella of more for you for less, This was a result of Asda’s market share decreasing to 16.7% and a recognition of Sainsbury’s recovery success. Asda also wanted to accentuate the quality and freshness of its food and drink, as the low price concept had begun to have less and less impact on its customers. It invested an enormous  £45 million advertising campaign using celebrities and even abandoned the familiar reassuring ‘Asda Price’ jingle. [6] In 2007, still reeling from the repercussions of its multi-million takeover bid of Safeway Superstores Morrison’s decided to revamp its image and market itself in a completely new way. It changed its logo and introduced the new strapline â€Å"The food sp ecialist for everyone.† In a similar way to Asda, Morrison’s made the decision to move away from the budget concept and value of lower costing food towards an angle that emphasized the quality of its products; where they came from and how they were packaged and presented. [7] This immediately followed a particularly controversial period for Morrison’s who were the first stock exchange company to post their results after the charity Christian Aid announced it would actively expose and campaign against industries that were seen to be abusing the environment.[8] It therefore becomes fairly apparent from these few recent examples that many of the major supermarkets are focusing their marketing strategies around the current political climate of the country, alongside the ever fluctuating expectations of its consumers. Comparatively the supermarket chain Waitrose has consistently delivered a reputation for stocking quality products, that are fair trade and organic. With the contentious strapline ‘honestly priced’ Waitrose focuses specifically on food and drink and has not diversified its products in line with the other major supermarkets. It has a very different socio-economic demographic for its market and their approach differs from other supermarkets in that they are all about brand loyalty. It has an account card like many other stores but chooses not to promote it. Rewards include concert tickets or selected food items, again emphasizing its overall different audience. The same audience who utilisie the John Lewis brand, the controlling arm of the supermarket. And most importantly of all the Waitrose profits are ploughed directly back into the pockets of its employees, maintaining a holistic enterprise with a fair, honest and high profile image. To what extent should supermarkets take into account ethics and corporate social responsibility when designing their competitive strategies and their relationship with suppliers? Do these responsibilities extend to protecting local communities and convenience stores? How should environmental questions be accounted for? By way of suppliers it is fair to assume from the media attention received that UK farmers are often seen to be suffering the effects of the considerable pressures put upon them to deliver high quality for lower prices, in addition to smaller grocers who find it continuously difficult to compete against the costs implemented by the supermarkets. The long-term impacts of battles between grocers and now non-food retail companies in the wake of the growth in expansion of supermarkets in new product areas, indicates that local based shopping facilities could decline further in future years. In response to the seemingly unending expansion and development of supermarkets across the UK, with smaller convenience stores moving into small towns and villages the Office of Fair Trading, (OFT) published the findings of an investigation into Britain’s four largest supermarkets, Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury’s and Morrisons. Primarily based on how they treated suppliers. The report discovered no issues with the relationship overall and the conclusion was positive. However, since these outcomes were made public there remains an ongoing observation of practices by supermarkets nationally and an increasing profile with regard to the social and environmental responsibilities these hugely powerful, profit hungry enterprises have become in recent years. Corporate Social Responsibility or CSR has become of significant importance to supermarkets, with some responding at higher levels than others. Marks and Spencer have introduced a five year eco strategy aiming to proactively tackle issues including climate change, waste reduction and ethical trading. And Sainsbury’s Active Kids initiative, allowing the 80% of all UK registered schools to redeem vouchers for sports equipment. Donating a generous  £7 million of their own profits towards the campaign. [9] However this does not take into account the lack of co-operation by the larger supermarkets to help prevent cheap alcohol binge drinking. Frank Soodeen the Communications Director for Alcohol Concern stated earlier this year that ‘Supermarkets have a responsibility to price alcohol realistically†¦This is not an ordinary product and continuing to cynically market it below cost in order to increase footfall increases the risk to the public health†¦In the current climate of social and environmental awareness, a tough policy for corporate social responsibility (CSR) is worth its weight in gold.’ [10] Asda has since become the first supermarket to remove all of its super strength canned beers and lagers. In addition it has taken forward a new proof of age scheme titled Challenge 25. Customers who purchase alcohol must now produce some form of identification if they appear to look younger than twenty five. Furthermore the Federation of Small Businesses claims around 2,000 independent retailers go out of business each year. Supermarkets selling items with no mark-up are subsequently pushing all other smaller independent traders out of business as they simply cannot compete. Fair trade is an ongoing concern, with cheap labour in foreign countries enabling the retail trade to adopt low cost prices through exploitation. Earlier this year Martin Hearson from the campaigns organization Labour Behind The Label was quoted as reiterating ‘In theory, all the main supermarkets are committed to this but in practice, we have seen very little ethics to live up to the promise to pay workers a living wage’[11] It is abundantly apparent that supermarkets play a significant role in CSR issues and have a responsibility to maintain a level of standards across a number of areas that impact on both local communities and larger global matters. Tesco recently published their own Corporate Social Responsibility policy, which can be found on their website accompanied by the following statement ‘Our Corporate Social Responsibility policy objective is to earn the trust of our customers by acting responsibly in the communities we serve. We recognise our impact on society at all levels and work to maximise the benefits we bring. Customers are at the heart of everything we do. CSR is good for our business and good for the communities where we operate. By building goodwill and trust with our customers, we can earn their lifetime loyalty, which is our core purpose.’[12] To what extent is it inevitable that local convenience stores will decline? Are there feasible strategic or marketing responses available to them? The University of Southampton having been carrying out research around the reaction of consumers to the take over and demise of the local convenience store. The impact on communities who had recently been party to the addition of a Tesco Express in their local town or village within four different geographical areas of Hampshire were analysed over a period of one year providing the following conclusions Many citizens moved away from travelling to the distant out of town supermarkets, preferring to use not only the local Tesco Express, but other local shops as well. The return of out of town shoppers brought about by the inclusion of a smaller Tesco actually encouraged the concentration of increased local shopping trends, rather than having a detrimental effect on the community. In response to the findings the research team leader Professor Wrigley commented â€Å"It is clear that the introduction of the Tesco Express format to these communities helped bring about a major re-localisation of top-up shopping – away from distant superstores towards local shops. If consumers can access the same quality of fresh food and product ranges locally as they do in larger supermarkets, then increasingly it seems they will divert their top-up shopping back into their local neighborhood. This may have potential benefits for other traders, but more interestingly has considerable significance in changing the way we shop – with more people walking and cycling to stores.’[13] This conclusive positive influence of supermarket chain presence in local environments is reflected less positively in a topical piece of correspondence from The Executive Chairman for the Association of Convenience Stores to the Inquiry Secretary of the Groceries Market Investigation Competition Commission in 2007. The letter documents an investigative outcome of Costcutter stores nationwide. Whereas the commission had found there to be no decline in the general consumer use of Costcutters. The outcomes of the evidence provided by the Association of Convenience stores details a very different picture altogether, noting ‘The case: IGD I William Reed reports a decline of 5000 stores between the years of 2000 to 2006, and the decline of independents added to symbol group independents has declined by 4,611 stores in the same time period.’ The correspondence goes on to claim that a significant number of independent retailers are closing regularly across the country. And those that have remained successful have been subjected to takeover bids by Tesco or Sainsbury’s. An example of one Tesco store opening in a market town in Yorkshire, demonstrated that the existing Costcutter nearby received a turnover of a 50% decrease.[14] Although it is clear that supermarkets are not able to meet all grocery shopping needs as more local convenience stores fall into decline, less choice will be available to the consumer. In addition minority groups and those unable to access large super stores out of town, who would ordinarily have completed their shopping locally are now being forced into taking the cheaper option the presence of a smaller convenience Tesco Metro or Sainsbury’s central provides, making the audience for independent and convenience retailers even narrower. How might suppliers respond to the pressure they face? Suppliers are consistently left with fewer choices in terms of providing produce at an economic level consistent with continued growth resulting from the lack of profit made impossible from value Supermarket trading. Not only are they reduced to having to cut their costs, but they are under pressure in other areas like having to accept longer payment plans and cut prices sometimes even further by having to contribute to special supermarket promotional activity. [15] One of the options remaining is for suppliers to consider moving their industries abroad or carrying out more overseas trading. Alternatively by changing their products to meet the demanding needs of consumers to be greener, more organic and free range and finding new ways in which production costs can be consequently reduced in the process to impart better profits would be advantageous. Adapting to new methods of meeting the demands of the supermarkets are a continued necessity for suppliers to survive in the current market. Some suppliers may end up trading overseas, with the supermarkets forced to then buy the same product abroad at a higher cost, but with the profits going back into the pockets of the supplier. This will have a consequent knock-on effect to how all global supply and demand is met in the future. Alternatively the creation of Stockless centres through an enhanced supermarket internet home delivery service would enable goods to transfer directly from the supplier to the consumer door-to-door with no over-head costs. This would help reduce any transportation or logistic costs or financial implications incurred by the suppliers. Some supermarkets are now co-operating at a much more intensive level with their suppliers by recruiting specialists employed to work directly as a point of liaison to collaborate with the supplier in specific matters relating to the quality of the product they are providing, as well as financial advice and support with storage, refrigeration and logistical problems. [16]There is perhaps potential then to increase this level of support and develop a closer working relationship between retailer and supplier in order that both are satisfied. 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