World war 1 poetry Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

World war 1 poetry - Essay Example Historical context is a compelling factor in a poem. Two poetic works may be dealing with the same issue or subject but these may differ when it comes to handling because these are based on different historical context. This is a fact that is very obvious when the poems of the early years and those of the later period of World War I are compared. During the early stage, the poems were still filled with idealism, particularly one that centers on the necessity of the war. The early World War I poems did recognize the reality of death but it also handled this subject in a very positive manner. A clear example of such poem is Charles Sorley’s All the Hills and Vales Along which has lines that say â€Å"sow your gladness for earth’s reaping / sow you may be glad, through sleeping / strew your gladness on earth’s bed / so be merry, so be dead† (257). However, the poems written during the later years of the war no longer glorify death and sufferings as noble sacr ifices in a necessary and just war. Instead, what are highlighted in the said poems are the physical and emotional pains suffered by the combatants as they continue fighting a war they gradually came to misunderstand. Death is no longer portrayed in heroic terms but rather as a matter of fact in war. An example of this is The Leveller, which is written by Robert Graves. Those who write about wars best are the very people who are engaged in it. In this regard, it is the men fighting in the front who can describe most accurately the normal human reaction to combat actions. Being soldiers themselves, the poets took a more introspective approach to the war they are fighting. Those who wrote poems at the early period of World War I, when death and destruction were not yet worse focused on glorifying the war itself. The poems were most calls to action and justifications of their respective country’s participation in the war. The message of lines like â€Å"In our heart of hearts b elieving / Victory crowns the just, / And that braggarts must / Surely bite the dust, / Press we to the field ungrieving, / In our heart of hearts believing / Victory crowns the just† from the poem Men Who March Away (Hardy) were common. Apparently, the lines dealt with the issue of death but if this is not glorified as a heroic inevitability, it is associated with the fate of the enemy. However, as the bloody fighting lasted for years and as both sides started to realize that the war only brought about pain and suffering, the poems too began to focus on death and destruction and treating these in ways less than noble. However, while it may be true that the focus of the poems display the differences in perspectives regarding the justness and nobleness of the war as it developed, most of these points out to the inevitability of death and destruction. The poems written in the early years also pointed out that death is inevitable but these also presented death as a necessity. Fro m the perspectives of the Allies, from which side the poets belong, dying in the fight is heroic which accounts for the encouraging lines â€Å"So sing with joyful breath, / For why, you are going to death† (Sorley). At the early stage of the war, when the soldiers were themselves bombarded with exhortations to fight valiantly and the public awash with propaganda on the justness of participating in it, the poems too reflected the general sentiment. These also painted the war positively, making it noble

Idea of Progress Essay Example for Free

Idea of Progress Essay Im going to talk about the notion Idea of progress. To begin with, Id like to give a definition of progress. The idea of progress basically consists in believing that the world can become better in terms of art, science, technology, liberty, and quality of life. However, sometimes progress causes more problems than it solves . Consequently, we are going to weigh the positive and negatives aspects of progress, in science , in medicine and in new technologies. The idea of progress basically consists in believing that the world can become better in terms of art, science, technology, liberty and quality of life and has shaped most of Western civilisations vision of history . Progress implies change, some evolution from an old order with old traditions to a new order which is not necessarily embraced by all . Its at the heart oh a heated debate between those who approve of these changes and those who resist and criticize them in the name of tradition . As the rythm of progress seems to have accelerated these last few decades with an ever faster increase of major technological and scientific breakthroughs, the cult of novelty and progress is now being questioned . Indeed, a growing number of people voice their concern about the ethical, social and environmental consequences of such development and about the excesses of todays consumer society .

Essay -- Papers

Contrasts in William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet â€Å"Romeo and Juliet† is a famous romantic drama written by William Shakespeare containing many contrasts within it, portraying the eponymous lovers’ everlasting love for one another. The conflict between the two families; the Montagues and the Capulets makes it almost impossible for them to be together. The play consists of romance and humour building up to the climax of Romeo and Juliet’s death. In the play we are first introduced to the servants Sampson and Gregory, from the Montague household, who have a similar lifestyle to the servants in the Capulet household, who are trying to keep up the reputation of the families. The Capulet household are holding a party where the servants are busy getting food, drinks and decoration ready, whereas Lord and Lady Capulet live the life of luxury where they simply think about marriage, money and parties. In the film we see that the servants are dressed down in black tatty clothing while the upper class people; the masters are wearing bright elaborate clothing. In Franco Zeffirelli and Baz Luhrmann’s interpretations of the play, they show this because they wanted to emphasise the status between higher and lower social people. The dark clothes also represent the darker days and shows that the servants are emotionally sad, but the masters are expressively happy. The language of the servants compared to the masters is very different. The servants are illiterate and not educated; however, the masters are highly educated and very posh, they can afford schooling, whereas the servants could not. Shakespeare shows this when the servant spea... ...her innocence, beauty and purity. Tybalt is a devil because he is likes to fight, he is evil, seeking trouble and devious. Paris is an astronaut who is rich, successful and out of this planet representing why he is the right person for Juliet to get married to. Lord and Lady Capulet are king and queen of Verona Beach and dress up as Marc Anthony/Julius Caesar and Cleopatra who also die in a similar way to Romeo and Juliet. This play is full of many opposites and contrasts: love and hate, peace and conflict, young and old. It is all mainly to do with historical, cultural and social context. The play sadly ended with the two star-crossed lovers having to give their life for their families to end their fighting. Romeo and Juliet end with these words: â€Å"For never was a story of more woe than this of Juliet and her Romeo†.

Communism in Chinese Education

China has a long and rich cultural tradition in which education has played a major role. In 124 BC the first university was established for training prospective bureaucrats in Confucian learning and the Chinese classics. Only members of the upper class could attend school. Peasants and factory workers did not have the time to attend school; therefore as of 1949 only 20% of China was literate. The Communists who controlled China considered illiteracy a major stumbling block in their promotion of political programs. They then combined political propaganda with educational development. During the first few years (1949-51) of this push on education, over 60 million peasants enrolled in winter schools, or sessions, established to take advantage of the slack season for agricultural workers. Mao, the Communist leader of China, felt that the ultimate goal of education was to eliminate class distinction. After Mao†s death in 1976 a review of government policies concerning education was started. Out of this review came standardized testing and the reinstitution of entrance exams to get into schools and these exams were also used to get in the civil service. Chinese children entered school at age six and stayed for six years. They would study the Chinese language, math and other basic subjects. After going to an elementary school children would enter a middle school. The subjects the Chinese taught were particularly important for the advancement of the country. During the Ming dynasty Chinese novels became very popular. There were many poems and collections of short stories. The Ming also established free schools for the public hoping to expand education in china. Gifted students were selected for studying abroad especially in the United States. As these students finished their education and returned to China some of them teaching at Chinese Universities a major political unrest began to place. The recently educated youth of China challenged the Communist policies of their country. Many protest and rallies took place led by university students. This protest was because students did not want the government to have total power. Many of these protestors were killed or jailed and still are in jail today. The more educated the Chinese people became they realized that their present way of life was not as good as it should be.

Childhood Obesity Essay

Obesity can be defined as the condition in which the body is characterized with excess fat by a body mass index of 30+ (Snell, et al, 2007). It is often characterized to have a genetic link i. e. it is a hereditary disease (Carol Torgan, 2002). However, families have common dietary, physical exercise, attitude and other lifestyle habits, which normally are the contributing factors to obesity. These factors sometimes are not easily from the purely genetic factors through statistical or diagnostic task. Albeit obesity is the case of children was once considered as a rare occurrence, it ahs rapidly become an epidemic with medial implications in the United States, as well as other developed states. The number of these obese children is projected to rise even further if stringent measures are not taken to curb this problem. Thus, child obesity is an issue that poses one of the greatest health challenges in the contemporary American society. The effects it has on a child’s life are generally profound, coupled with the fact that other than having to contend with overweight issues, there are numerous health issues that a child is exposed to. This is in addition to both the social and emotional problems that it creates. Once the children become adults the overweight problem does not seize, it continues and even poses other greater risk to the child in form of such conditions like stroke and heart disease. One of the possible root causes of obesity still remains as over consumption of food. When children consume too many calories for their energy needs in most cases has resulted in many modern obesity cases. When the children get to eat too much high fat food or the refined sugary foods, research suggests that they always stand a high percentage of becoming obese. According to researchers there are many metabolic as well as digestive disorders that are brought about by over consumption of refined white carbohydrates together with little or no fiber intake (Vincent Iannelli, 2007). These eating patterns in children are known to interfere with the body metabolic rates thereby causing too much fat storage within their bodies. Some of the related disorders linked to obesity include; insulin resistance, diabetes of type 2 and obesity itself. The effects of all these diseases are still a major concern the world over. Although under these circumstances the diagnosis would reveal that a child has metabolic or even digestive disorder that might be easy to treat parents do have a role to play to ensure that their children are not obese. The level on number of kids suffering from obesity has reached one that is characterized as an epidemic. Fr instance experts estimate that about fifteen percent (15%) of children are suffering from overweight problems, while another 15% one said to be at high risk of becoming overweight (Vincent 2007). Eventually, about two thirds of these current overweight children would end up as obese adults. Fast food is another risk factor that is characterized as a major contributor to overweight in children. Due to its high calorie as well as its high fat ultra sized meals. The contribution that the fast foods make toward the excess fat content within the body of the child is enormous (Gary & Juliet, 2005). The excess fat accumulates within the body tissues as well as the high sugar content that would in effect affect the body’s metabolic and digestives rates. Nevertheless, the role played by parents cannot be down played. As much as the manufactures of the fast foods are to partially be blame for this growing problem, the parents too have their tasks cut out for them. For instance, if they have learned and at least are sensitive enough to know what the effects of the fast foods have on the health of their kids. Parents have the ability to monitor the kind of food that their kids eat. In addition, the kids do not have the money to purchase these fast foods, as well as sensitizing their children’s health (Summerfield, Liane M 2007). Equally, since the dietary habits are common in almost all families it must be that either a child who is getting hooked into the various fast foods could just be picking a habit from his/her parents or from the family. It is also very hard for young children to pick up eating habits or any dietary habits that his or her parents do not approve of least of all are not practiced with the family. Many children who suffer from obesity and other related health problems often are less active. This may be due to such issue like addiction to television as well as such other activities as video games. When kids stay up all day or all night and on a frequent basis, the chances of them become obese increases. This risk factor is another contributor to obesity. Due to the inactivity that characterizes sitting down watching TV and the video games. A lot of people including parents have tended to blame the media as a whole laying a blanket condemnation and particularly directed their anger at the people who design the TV and video games programs for the kids. Much as it is admissible that the designers of these programs have a crucial role to play both in ways to help bring down the addiction aspect of the children to their games, and also to help limit the number of children suffering from obesity but with links to video or TV games. The role played by the media would only be supplementary. The program editors should also at least try to put such warming messages that would forewarn children against the dangers of excessive indulgence and addiction to their games. Once the program editors and the designers of these games have done their part then parents too have the bigger role to play. Another cause of obesity is genetically factors. Obesity as a disease is hereditary and as such runs with the family. A child who has an obese parent or someone in his or her lineage stands high-risk chance of becoming over weight. The genes from the parents or the grand parents are carried down to the child. However, genetics alone does not cause obesity, this is a condition that is only made possible to affect a child if the child eats excess food. The genetic link only makes it highly likely for the child to become obese. Nevertheless, when the child engages in eating or dietary habits that would make his or her consume large amounts of calories that he or she is not able to expend of in her body system then she will definitely develop obesity. Dietary habits mostly children’s eating lifestyles have away from the traditional healthy foods that includes fruits, vegetables as well as whole grains to new an to a larger extent, much reliance on fast food, sugary drinks together with processed snack goods as well as many other foods that are high in fat content and sugar. Due to their high gat content and/or high calories while remaining low on fiber content. Eating patterns such as having a meal while listening to radio watching TV, watching video games as well as eating while doing homework have also been identified as risk factors for the causes of obesity. Another factor which is socio-economic status ahs also been cited as risk factors for the cause of obesity. Families with lower income and with parents who are non-working have been linked to greater calorie intake for activity level. This is because the poor families cannot be able to afford health and low on fat content foods. Laziness Often defined as physical inactivity. The growing popularity among children with computer, television, video games among other activities that are found in electronic media has transformed to a growing sedentary lifestyle for many of the children within the United States of America. It has been established through research that within the United States alone, children spend a minimum of 3 hours watching TV in a single day. This habit encourages laziness and ensures that the child expends very little of energy that he or she has consumer. Further this habit encourages others acts like snacking. Due its nature, it is high in calories and since the child would spend most of the time sited, fact is she or he will not find time to release the calories consumed Brian Wansink, 2006). It is estimated that less than half of the children within the united states have parents who do routine physical exercise, and that just one third of children within the united states can access physical education facilities at school on or daily basis. The () busy schedule by parents and constant fears about the safety of their children has made it almost impossibility for kids to engage in any sports or other programs of activity after school, as they have to rush home in time. If the parents can cut down on the number of hours that children watch TV, video games and play computer games then the risks associated with media would come down as the level of laziness would be eroded if not eradicated. When parents get involved in regular exercises most likely their children too may develop interest and thus burn off excess calories and keep physically fit. The parents should also ensure that their kids are enrolled in schools where they can access physical education facilities regularly as is designed in the curriculum. If the parents took their time and organized their schedules as well as ensuring safety for their kids so as to allow them ample time to have to engage themselves in after school sports activities. During infancy, parents too can help the cause of preventing obesity through the continued breast feeding of the baby and delaying of the introduction process. Older children can be helped by their parents to develop good dietary habits, by eating healthy, nutritious food while at the same time engaging in regular exercise. In view of all these factors, from the genetics, environment to the physical activity of the child there is no particular point when the parent does not have role to play to prevent the child from being obese. As such I do believe that all the parents are to be blamed for the problems that obese children have. Reference: 1. ^http://www. obesity. org/subs/childhood/prevalence. shtml 2.   http://www. ausport. gov. au/aasc/about_aasc/facts. asp 3.   Mindless Eating: Why We Eat More Than We Think (2006), Brian Wansink New York: Bantam-Dell.

Adderall essays

Adderall essays The Wonder Drug? In todays society we believe in a quick fix in anything that ails us society. Most Americans want to be healed quickly; we want a quick fix for all our aches and pains. There is a fairly new drug on the market that is called Adderoll. Adderall, is a stimulant for children who suffer from attention deficit disorder. It is used to help the person taking Adderall concentrate on the task on hand. However, these people who suffer from A.D.D. depend on Adderall, they need it to make them more controllable, and pay attention better in class.Like most new drugs they are very effective and have changed many poor students into successful students. However, in todays society children, young adults, and adults will take advantage of a good thing. Adderall is being abused in college and high school campuses across the United States. We have to do something to limit the misuse of Adderall that is being distributed through prescription use. What exactly is ADD? Approximately two million children in the United States have been diagnosed with ADD (BainL.J.).Bain, an expert in dealing with ADD says, Its estimated that 3-5% of the student population have ADD(20). Dr. Jaksa, an expert in ADD and Adderall states ADD is a diagnosable, treatable, biologically based disorder which we understand now much better than we did even 10 to 15 years ago (12). The primary systems include some combinations of inattentiveness or distractibility, impulsivity, for some people physical restlessness or hyperactive behavior (Bain). ADD is one of the most common childhood disorders. The symptoms that are seen with ADD are having lots of difficult paying attention, difficulty listening, difficulty with organization, gets distracted easy, cants sit still and the examples go on and on (Bain). These examples are pretty severe and con...

Free Essays on Examining Gender Gaps in Heterosexuals Opions

EXAMINING GENDER GAPS IN HETEROSEXUAL’S OPINIONS ABOUT LESBIANS AND GAY MEN Abstract This study uses a focus group technique to examine gender differences in heterosexual attitudes towards homosexuality. The interactions and content of two focus groups, one all male and one all female, are compared. The female group is found to be supportive and in favour of adoption rights for same-sex couples, whereas the all male group express their distaste of homosexuality and agree no such rights should be afforded same-sex couples. Introduction Despite heterosexual society’s apparent acceptance of homosexuality, there is still widespread prejudice, misconceptions and stereotypical beliefs about gay people and same sex couples. Gregory M Herek (2002) found that heterosexual women were more supportive than men of adoption rights for gay people and less likely to hold stereotypical beliefs about gay people. Heterosexual men were generally found to have very negative attitudes towards gay men and were least supportive of adoption rights for gay men. This report looks at distinguishing attitudes towards lesbians and those focused on gay men, and also examines the differences in opinions between male and female heterosexuals. The qualitative method of collecting data was chosen because it was felt that the focus group would bring more honest views to the surface. The alternatives such as questionnaires or one-to-one interviews tend to produce answers that participants feel the interviewer wants to hear and also that give a favourable impression of themselves. Focus groups also allow the researcher to collect a greater amount of information in a very short time. Method Two focus groups were conducted, each with five participants, one of which consisted of all females and the second one all males. Participants were university students aged from 18 to 4* and were an opportunity sample. The participants were seated around a ... Free Essays on Examining Gender Gaps in Heterosexual's Opions Free Essays on Examining Gender Gaps in Heterosexual's Opions EXAMINING GENDER GAPS IN HETEROSEXUAL’S OPINIONS ABOUT LESBIANS AND GAY MEN Abstract This study uses a focus group technique to examine gender differences in heterosexual attitudes towards homosexuality. The interactions and content of two focus groups, one all male and one all female, are compared. The female group is found to be supportive and in favour of adoption rights for same-sex couples, whereas the all male group express their distaste of homosexuality and agree no such rights should be afforded same-sex couples. Introduction Despite heterosexual society’s apparent acceptance of homosexuality, there is still widespread prejudice, misconceptions and stereotypical beliefs about gay people and same sex couples. Gregory M Herek (2002) found that heterosexual women were more supportive than men of adoption rights for gay people and less likely to hold stereotypical beliefs about gay people. Heterosexual men were generally found to have very negative attitudes towards gay men and were least supportive of adoption rights for gay men. This report looks at distinguishing attitudes towards lesbians and those focused on gay men, and also examines the differences in opinions between male and female heterosexuals. The qualitative method of collecting data was chosen because it was felt that the focus group would bring more honest views to the surface. The alternatives such as questionnaires or one-to-one interviews tend to produce answers that participants feel the interviewer wants to hear and also that give a favourable impression of themselves. Focus groups also allow the researcher to collect a greater amount of information in a very short time. Method Two focus groups were conducted, each with five participants, one of which consisted of all females and the second one all males. Participants were university students aged from 18 to 4* and were an opportunity sample. The participants were seated around a ...

Using the Spanish Word Seguro

Using the Spanish Word Seguro As a cognate of the English word secure, seguro has most of the meanings of secure as well as a few of its own. It is used most often to refer to safety, security, dependability, and certainly, concepts that overlap. The most common translations are secure, safe, and certain, although others are possible. Seguro Referring to Safety Some examples of seguro as an adjective referring to safety: Segà ºn las estadà ­sticas, el avià ³n es el medio de transporte ms seguro. (Statistically, the airplane is the safest form of transport.)Los padres quieren saber que son seguros los juegos que estn jugando sus hijos.  (The parents want to know that the games their children are playing are safe.)El hotel cerca del aeropuerto es el à ºltimo lugar seguro. (The hotel near the airport is the ultimate safe place.)Necesito un silloncito seguro para el bebà ©. (I need a safe chair for the baby.)Haz tu casa segura para tu familia. (Make your home safe for your family.) ¿Alguien sabe de una fuente segura de medicina? (Does anyone know of a safe source of medicine?) Seguro Related to Security Seguro is commonly used as an adjective when referring to various kinds of security, both physical and virtual: Sus datos estarn seguros. (Your data will be secure.)La ciudad tiene una estacià ³n de trenes segura y accesible. (The city has a secure and accessible train station.)Los telà ©fonos mà ³viles ya no son seguros. (Cellphones still arent secure.)La Sala de Situaciones de la Casa Blanca posee sistemas de comunicaciones seguras. (The White House Situation Room has secure communications systems.) ¿Se puede lograr que una ciudad sea segura contra los terroristas que utilizan vehà ­culos como armas? (Can a city achieve being secure against terrorists who use vehicles as weapons?) Other Meanings for Seguro In some contexts, seguro can refer to reliability or trustworthiness: No puedo arriesgar la vida de mis hombres en un plan poco seguro. (I cant risk the life of my men on an undependable plan.)Necesito respuestas seguras porque me muero de nervios. (I need reliable answers because Im dying of anxiety.)La biometrà ­a est creciendo como mà ©todo seguro de identificacià ³n de usuarios. (Biometrics is in creating as an effective  method of user identification.) Seguro can refer to certainty: La etimologà ­a de la palabra no es segura. (The etymology of the word isnt certain.)No estoy seguro de cà ³mo ayudar a alguien con problemas financieros. (Im not sure how to help someone with financial problems.)Pasaron tres o cuatro minutos, no estoy seguro.  (Three or four minutes passed, Im not sure.) Note again that the meanings above can overlap, and context may be necessary to determine what is meant. For example, one of the  sentence above - Los telà ©fonos mà ³viles ya no son seguros - came from an article about the security of information transmitted over the airwaves. But in a different context, the same sentence might have been referring to whether such cellphones can cause cancer. Seguro as a Noun As a noun, el seguro can refer to a safe place in general, or more specifically as a safety latch or other device that keeps something or someone safe. (In some regions, it can refer specifically to a safety pin.) A seguro can also refer to an insurance policy, especially one covering health or protection for injuries. Muchos alpinistas prefieran los mosquetones con seguros de acero. (Many climbers prefer carabiners with steel screw locks.)El seguro casero se requiere en cualquier prà ©stamo casero. (Homeowners insurance is required for any home loan.)Tiene seguros especiales para que el bebà © se quede fijo a la hamaca. (We have special devices so the baby can remain attached to the hammock.) Related Words and Etymology Words related to seguro include asegurar (to assure, to insure, to secure, to make sure), segurar (a shortened version of asegurar), seguridad (security, safety), and seguramente (securely, surely, probably). Seguro comes from the Latin securus, which had a similar meaning. The most closely related English words are secure, sure, and security, although there is also a more distant relationship with secret (secreto in Spanish). Key Takeaways Seguro is related to the English word secure and usually is an adjective that conveys the idea of safety or security.In some contexts, seguro can convey the idea of certainty or usefulness.As noun, seguro often refers to insurance or a thing that provides for safety.

Argument Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 3

Argument Analysis - Essay Example She further stated that pornography should not be displayed openly in streets and supermarkets. Her intended audiences are all the women in the world who are too terrified to take up any action against pornography and its purveyors. The audience also includes all people of good moral background who see pornography as exploitation of women by men. Her main argument in her essay â€Å"Let’s Put Pornography Back in the Closet† is the First Amendment, which guarantees freedom of speech and cannot be used as a defense to promote pornography. Her sole purpose is to influence the justice system through indignant public opinion that First Amendment rights have been abused by those promoting and selling pornography. The rhetorical strategy used by author Brownmiller is to appeal to her audiences by using emotion (pathos) and logos (her knowledge of the legal system). The author evokes ethos (credibility) also, as she is a well-known feminist who has written a volume of works on varied feminist issues and is a well-established author, journalist and activist. Hermeneutical arguments were made against pornography because it proliferated during the heady 1960s. My thesis statement is that good writers can influence their readers by using the three factors of ethos, logos and pathos. Many writers employ character primarily because credence can produce a powerful reaction or response that is required for taking action. Then it can be supplemented by using knowledge and emotions that can serve as support to main arguments being put forward by the author. Brownmiller was perhaps rightly concerned that the heady and liberating 1960s also led to the abuse of the First Amendment rights by the purveyors of pornographic materials by using it as a defense to conduct nefarious activities. Being a renowned feminist writer, Susan Brownmiller argues through strong emotions that pornography is actually not

Description of the current brand Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Description of the current brand - Assignment Example Second, its iconic Cadillac caters for the high-end market (General Motors 1). Thirdly, Chevrolet, GMC and Opel cater for the middle class market segment (General Motors 1). The multiple brands enable the organization to increase its product offering, a key source of competitive advantage in the motor industry. In addition, it enables it to compete in different parts of the world due to differences in consumer needs. In addition, the organization has sub-brands. For example, the organization has separated Cadillac from the other operations due to its huge potential and its ability to operate as a standalone unit (The Daily Herald). The essence of having a sub brand is that it enables the organization to focus on a niche market that it would otherwise have been unable to. Furthermore, its Chevy brand is doing well in the American market. As a result, it has the ability to operate as a sub brand. In conclusion, the motor vehicle industry is a heavily segmented market. Consumers have different utility needs and different levels of purchasing power. Consequently, manufacturers such as General Motors have embraced a product differentiation strategy that enables them to have multiple brands to satisfy the different market needs. In addition, it has sub-brands to cater for niche market

World Trade Organization Today Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

World Trade Organization Today - Essay Example The study "World Trade Organization Today" describes the work of the institution responsible for the multilateral trading system. The World Trade Organization (WTO) is the one and only international organization dealing with multilaterally agreed rules on trade among its member countries. Through WTO agreement, which spell out rights and obligations, member countries operate a nondiscriminatory multilateral trading system that has allowed world trade to grow. The goal is to help producers of goods and services, and exporters and importers, conduct their business in a manner that ensures predictability and stability. The supreme body of the WTO is the Ministerial Conference which is held at least once in every two years. It comprises representatives of all members and functions to oversee the implementation of members' obligations as well as to negotiate new agreements. The day-to-day business of the WTO is conducted under the supervision of the General Council (GC) which comprises re presentatives of all members to the WTO who are usually of Ambassadorial level or equivalent. The GC has the authority to act on behalf of the Ministerial Conference and oversees the operations of agreements and ministerial decisions. As the principal institution with responsibility for the multilateral trading system, the WTO has the same status as institutions such as the World Bank and IMF. The WTO has legal personality and has been accorded privileges similar to those accorded to the specialized UN agencies.

International finance Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

International finance - Research Paper Example Additionally, the company was ranked number two in manufacture of quality skincare products and was awarded Quality System Certification in 2002 by the Saudi Arabia government, making it one of the most renowned cosmetic companies in Middle East. Thus, this paper will delve into a marketing plan of Saudis Cosmetic Company as it tries to enter London, United Kingdom. Southwest Airlines is a service industry in Tunisia that aims at offering its customers with distinctive air transport services. The company started in 1969 in Tunis Tunisia, with an aim of providing its customers with air transport at a lower cost and an effective one for that matter. Eventually, the company adopted a strategy that seeks to provide its diverse customers with added value by making sure that the services exceed the price paid by the customer as well as what the customer expects to pay for the services. The company believes that creating value is one of the crucial activities the firm would take to attain a competitive edge. Even though the company started with purchasing products that were diesel powered, it has managed to replace its components and equipments with modern equipment, which are environmentally friendly, at a reduced cost. More so, it has managed to come up with more innovative products in the new airport lounges and the business class products. The company has also managed to come up with a number of trained personnel who take care of the children while their parents are in the â€Å"business class.† This new experience within the industry creates an added value for the customers. Mode of market entry. According to Li & Fung Research centre (2007), the emergence of foreign cosmetic firms in Saudi Arabia has led to a decrease of Saudis Cosmetic Company’s market share from 18.99% in 2001 to 9% in 2003. And even though the company targets middle and low-income earners, living in rural and lower-tier cities in 2006, its sales revenue dropped significantly to $ 43.7 million. As a result, Guangzhou Wuyi, a Chinese cosmetic company, purchased it in 2006, hoping that Saudis Cosmetic Company stands a good position in providing viable means for local market penetration through various distribution channels, as well as through brand equity. The Saudi cosmetic retail sales have been on an upward trend from 2006 to 2007, as evidenced by last year’s unprecedented sales reaching 1 million Dollars and growth of 16.0%. As a result, Saudi Arabia is considered as the fastest growing cosmetic market in the globe, eliciting foreign cosmetic investors in the market. The success of this company has been attributable to a number of factors, which include an increase in social-economic status, presence of women in cosmetic workforce, influence from western culture, and government’s promotion to local consumption in a bid to enhance the economy of the nation (Alon, 2003, p. 164). In today’s market, the Saudis Cosmetic Company faces stiff competition from a number of foreign companies investing in Saudi Arabia, which include Beijing Dabao Cosmetic Company, Estee Lauder, and Shiseido, among others. The Estee Lauder is on record for having made a sales growth of 40% in 2009, the same year that Saudis Cosmetic Company recorded a decrease in sales growth. It is, therefore, evident that Saudis Cosme

Human Resources Management Research Proposal Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Human Resources Management - Research Proposal Example Simply put, IHRM is Human Resources Management (HRM) that cuts across national boundaries. It is important that the IHRM policies are congruent with the firm's strategy and its formal and informal structures and controls. IHRM has to ensure that the firm has the right people in the right places at the right times. The task is complicated by profound differences between countries in labor markets, culture, legal and economic system. (Adler 1-7) We will illustrate how the IHRM policies f a multi-national company should be in line with its overall strategy and complement its existing structure and controls by focusing on the staffing policies. The training and development, performance appraisal and compensation policies should be similarly aligned with the overall strategy and consistent with each other. However, because f the constraints on time and space, we have focused only on staffing policies. Broadly classifying, international organizations can be said to have one f the following strategies or models: Multi-domestic, International, Global, and Transnational. These strategies and the structure and controls to implement them are listed in the following table: It is quite obvious that all companies must strive to be transnational. However, becoming transnational is a difficult goal to achieve because the coordination required and thus the costs associated are very high. Now the staffing Now the staffing policy f an IHRM is concerned with selecting individuals - across different countries in which its operations are located - with the requisite skills to do a particular job. Clearly, staffing policies are important tools for developing and promoting a common corporate culture across all nationalities in which the company is present. Culture Shock It refers to the overall sense f difficulty in coping with a foreign locale and sometimes upon retuning home as well. It is also used when employees move from one company to another in their own country, for organizational cultures can vary greatly. According to Philip Harris and Robert Moran, differences in culture (particularly national or ethnic) can be contrasted along the following ten dimensions: 1. Sense f self and space While self-identity and appreciation is shown by a humble demeanor in one culture, another culture exhibits it through macho behavior. While one culture appreciates group cooperation, another might stress independence and creativity. Americans like more physical space between individuals while the Latin and Vietnamese prefer to be much closer. 2. Communication and language Various gestures have different meanings in different countries. Some nations have as many as 15 different languages and within those different dialects, accents, slang and jargon. 3. Dress and appearance Garments and body decorations vary by culture. Examples would include Englishman's bowler and umbrella and the Polynesian sarong. 4. Food and eating habits Selection, preparation and eating habits vary across nations. While beef is a favorite f many Americans, it is forbidden in the Hindu culture. The manner f eating also varies across cultures. Eating with one's hands is customary in some while use f chopsticks or a full set f cutlery is a rule in others. 5. Time and time consciousness The sense f

International finance Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

International finance - Research Paper Example Additionally, the company was ranked number two in manufacture of quality skincare products and was awarded Quality System Certification in 2002 by the Saudi Arabia government, making it one of the most renowned cosmetic companies in Middle East. Thus, this paper will delve into a marketing plan of Saudis Cosmetic Company as it tries to enter London, United Kingdom. Southwest Airlines is a service industry in Tunisia that aims at offering its customers with distinctive air transport services. The company started in 1969 in Tunis Tunisia, with an aim of providing its customers with air transport at a lower cost and an effective one for that matter. Eventually, the company adopted a strategy that seeks to provide its diverse customers with added value by making sure that the services exceed the price paid by the customer as well as what the customer expects to pay for the services. The company believes that creating value is one of the crucial activities the firm would take to attain a competitive edge. Even though the company started with purchasing products that were diesel powered, it has managed to replace its components and equipments with modern equipment, which are environmentally friendly, at a reduced cost. More so, it has managed to come up with more innovative products in the new airport lounges and the business class products. The company has also managed to come up with a number of trained personnel who take care of the children while their parents are in the â€Å"business class.† This new experience within the industry creates an added value for the customers. Mode of market entry. According to Li & Fung Research centre (2007), the emergence of foreign cosmetic firms in Saudi Arabia has led to a decrease of Saudis Cosmetic Company’s market share from 18.99% in 2001 to 9% in 2003. And even though the company targets middle and low-income earners, living in rural and lower-tier cities in 2006, its sales revenue dropped significantly to $ 43.7 million. As a result, Guangzhou Wuyi, a Chinese cosmetic company, purchased it in 2006, hoping that Saudis Cosmetic Company stands a good position in providing viable means for local market penetration through various distribution channels, as well as through brand equity. The Saudi cosmetic retail sales have been on an upward trend from 2006 to 2007, as evidenced by last year’s unprecedented sales reaching 1 million Dollars and growth of 16.0%. As a result, Saudi Arabia is considered as the fastest growing cosmetic market in the globe, eliciting foreign cosmetic investors in the market. The success of this company has been attributable to a number of factors, which include an increase in social-economic status, presence of women in cosmetic workforce, influence from western culture, and government’s promotion to local consumption in a bid to enhance the economy of the nation (Alon, 2003, p. 164). In today’s market, the Saudis Cosmetic Company faces stiff competition from a number of foreign companies investing in Saudi Arabia, which include Beijing Dabao Cosmetic Company, Estee Lauder, and Shiseido, among others. The Estee Lauder is on record for having made a sales growth of 40% in 2009, the same year that Saudis Cosmetic Company recorded a decrease in sales growth. It is, therefore, evident that Saudis Cosme

Unit 2 Scenario Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Unit 2 Scenario - Essay Example Preferring organic, natural and health foods, Gordon Gourmand however can cater to my choices. Having these options, 3 bags of groceries at a cost of $120 will be bought from Gordon Gourmand. The remaining amount from the budget will be spent in Northern Lake Foodstore and will be more than enough for the same number of bags of groceries costing $75. $5 dollars worth of groceries can also buy a considerable number of goods from the same store. Supposing, my income increases by 20 percent hereby raising my budget for groceries to $250. This change in income will also bring changes in the budget line for groceries. Having more money to cater to my preference of products, instead of just three bags, more groceries, probably 3 bags more will added to the groceries from Gordon Gourmand. These additional bags from the Gordon Gourmand will mean fewer groceries from the other store. My favored groceries from Gordon Gourmand therefore are normal goods. These are basis commodities which are necessary as required by my lifestyle. As the income increases, it is but natural to buy more of such products instead of alternative goods, those from Northern Lake Foodstore. If the price of a bag of groceries at Northern Lake Foodstore decreased to $20 per bag, and assuming that my income did not increase, the bulk of my groceries will be coming from the store. This price change however will not affect my budget line for groceries and surely it does not affect my previous choice of groceries. The 3 bags of preferred groceries will still be from Gordon Gourmand. However since the price of the commodities from Northern Lake Foodstore decreased, instead of just 3 bags of alternative goods, about one more bag of groceries will be bought at the store. Looking at the increase in the number of bags purchased due to the decrease in price, the demand is price elastic. The price

Factors Affecting Essay Example for Free

Factors Affecting Essay Few markets avoid change, which involves new products or new ways of making existing products. Some industries are more likely to undergo substantial changes brought about by new technologies and new adaptations of existing technologies. The IT, computer and mobile phone markets are experiencing more innovation than most. How do businesses benefit from introducing radical new products and what factors influence the range and pace of innovation? Spending on research and development (RD) is growing globally and in most industrial sectors. The benefits to a country of encouraging RD spending include: †¢creation of high-tech jobs †¢creation of high-added-value products that may then be manufactured in that country †¢prestige – a country being linked to scientific and technological breakthroughs †¢Attraction of investment by multinational corporations. Several factors may influence the level of research and development (RD) and innovation by a business: †¢The nature of the industry. Rapidly changing technologies – and consumer expectations – in pharmaceutical products, defense, computer and software products and motor vehicles lead to the need for substantial investment in RD by leading firms. Other businesses, such as hotels and hairdressing, would need to spend much less as the scope for innovation is more limited. †¢The RD and innovation spending plans of competitors. In most markets, it is essential to innovate as much as or more than competitors if market share and technical leadership are to be maintained. However, a monopoly may limit RD spending if it believes that the risk of a more technically advanced competitor entering the market is limited. On the other hand, profits from a monopoly could be used to finance research into innovative products if the risk of competitor entry into the industry is high. †¢Business expectations. If business managers are optimistic about the future state of the economy and the rate of economic growth and consumer demand, then they are more likely to agree to substantial budgets for RD and aim to introduce more innovative products. †¢The risk profile or culture of the business. The attitude of the management to risk and whether shareholders are prepared to invest for the long term will have a significant effect on the sums that businesses can inject into RD programmes. ‘Short-termism’ is an accusation made towards many major UK financial institutions and the need to satisfy these investors could discourage managers from investing in RD. Government policy towards grants to businesses and universities for RD programmes and the range and scope of tax allowances for such expenditure will influence decisions by businesses. †¢Finance is needed for effective RD. In many firms this may be limited and will restrict the number of new innovations that could be made. Reference: http://classof1.com/homework-help/operations-management-homework-help View as multi-pages

Conditions for Malo-lactic Fermentation With Flavour Profile

Conditions for Malo-lactic Fermentation With Flavour Profile Describe the conditions necessary for the successful completion of a malo-lactic fermentation with a desirable flavour profile. MUGAMBHIKA.M.N ABSTRACT Malolactic fermentation (MLF) is a biological process that is initiated in the winemaking process to produce premium quality of wines. The conversion of L-Malic acid to L-Lactic acid by lactic acid bacteria (LAB) will have a direct effect on the wine produced in terms of quality. MLF increases microbial stabilization, sensory attributes of the wine by reducing the acidity level in the wine(Versari et al., 1999). Desirable attributes such as honey, vanilla and smoother taste in wine has been reported by several studies which is linked to the enzymatic activity of Lactic acid bacteria during Malolactic fermentation (Là ³pez et al., 2011). During alcoholic fermentation, the wine becomes hostile for Lactic Acid Bacteria, due to the presence of high ethanol content, SO2 and other chemical residues released by yeasts. But at a controlled level, they could be made optimum for Malolactic fermentation. The species of Lactic acid bacteria assisting spontaneous fermentation belong to the Oenococcus, Leuconostoc, Lactobacillus genera. Although, Oenococcus oeni are the predominantly used LAB. They are considered to be ideal for Malolactic fermentation due to its specific oenological properties like reduced production of acetic acid, presence of enzymes that enhances the aroma and flavour characteristics, decreased risk of wine spoilage(CHRIS POWELL, 2005, Chalfan et al., 1977). INTRODUCTION: Wine fermentation is an important process carried out by microorganisms like yeasts and lactic acid bacteria. Malolactic Fermentation (MLF) is the enzymatic conversion of L-malic acid to L-lactic acid and Carbon dioxide by lactic acid bacteria. The importance of MLF in commercial winemaking process is due to the biological deacidification reaction by the wine lactic acid bacteria (LAB) (CHRIS POWELL, 2005). Malolactic Fermentation occurs after alcoholic transformation predominantly by Oenococcus oeni species. The bacterial activity during fermentation and its quality depends on the wine. Chemical and physical composition of the wine control the survival and growth lactic acid bacteria in wines(Toit, 2011). Malolactic Fermentation has varied effects on wine flavour and aroma. MLF can either occur spontaneously in wine or by addition of starter cultures that are commercially available. With spontaneous MLF, there are different end results which is due to the native microorganisms that may occur immediately or few months after the completion of alcoholic fermentation. The indigenous microorganisms like lactic acid bacteria may start off from the vines and grape skin in the winery equipment. This leads to risks like increase in volatile acidity, delayed malolactic fermentation and development of unfavourable metabolites like biogenic amines. Biogenic amines affects the quality of wines and affect human health. These are primarily formed due to the decarboxylation of amino acids by Lactic acid bacteria(Solieri et al., 2010). This could be tackled by using a defined starter culture. In order to improve the quality of wine through MLF, wine makers prefer to inoculate grape musts or wine with lactic acid bacteria starter cultures. These are commercially available in freeze dried form or fresh liquid forms. Although few winemakers prefer to use their own starter cultures by growing strains of lactic acid bacteria in diluted grape juice or wine(Bisson, 2004). Inoculated MLF: Inoculated starter culture in Malolactic Fermentation provides better control on the timing of fermentation process and the organisms present. Bacterial starter culture is more difficult to maintain than the yeast starter culture, because the medium needs to be completely sterile and there is a high probability of undesirable lactic acid bacteria occurrence. Fermentation occurs faster under high inocula. The percent inoculum that is needed to be used should be 1-50% depending on the vigour of culture(Semon et al., 2001). Spontaneous MLF: There are a number of risks associated with spontaneous malolactic fermentation. The timing of the process is sometimes uncontrolled and there is a higher threat of undesirable strains that could cause an off flavour in the wine. The timing of process is more certain for alcoholic fermentation than the MLF. This is due to the fastidious nature of bacteria occurring spontaneously in the fermentor(Solieri et al., 2010). The use of starter culture instead of native culture has been a widespread winemaking practice. Inoculated Malolactic fermentation increases the quality and safety of wine produced. On the other hand Spontaneous Malolactic fermentation sometimes increases wine spoilage and produces toxic metabolites like biogenic amines(Solieri et al., 2010). EFFECTS OF MALOLACTIC FERMENTATION: The main effects of Malolactic fermentation are Acidity reduction The deacidification is due to the reduction of net concentration of carboxyl groups. The reduction in acidity is important for high acid wines and may not be desirable in wines already with lower acidity. There is a decrease in titratable acidity by 0.01 to 0.03 g/L because of hydrogen ion fixation(Kurane and Ghosh, 2012). Bacterial stability Flavour changes Various studies have reposted on the specific sensory changes that occurs in wine production due to the malolactic bacterial enzymatic activity. The sensory attributes are strain dependent. In addition to acidity reduction, flavour characteristics of wine after MLF can be buttery, nutty, earthy and fruity. The desired flavour profile in wine can occur in wine after MLF due to the removal of existing flavour compounds and production of new aromatic compounds with better sensory attribute. THE grape and yeast derived secondary metabolites get modified to end products with better desired flavour compounds from metabolism of sugar and amino acids(Bartowsky, 2005). BASIC CONDITIONS NECESSARY FOR SUCCESSFUL MALOLACTIC FERMENTATION pH: MLF strains grow at pH 2.9-3.0. If the wines have a very low pH after the primary fermentation, it is required to consider the reduction of acidity before MLF initiation. It is also important to consider the formation of biogenic amines. MLF cultures grow well even in pH higher than 3.5. Although the risk of off flavour and production of undesirable taste and aroma components increase as the pH increases. Therefore it is needed to adjust the acidity and pH before malolactic fermentation if the pH is more than 3.7. Malate is catabolised at pH 3.2 The enzymatic conversion of L-malic acid to L-lactic acid is faster at a pH 3.5 and the conversion rate is lower at lower pH values. The pH tolerance also relates to the strain variation and viability(Comfort, 2011). Temperature: Temperature is an important factor for initiation or inhibition of Malolactic fermentation. The ambient temperature for the growth of malolactic bacteria is between 20 to 37 °C. At a temperature below 15 °C, the Malolactic bacteria are generally non-viable. Therefore warming down the wines to 18 °C will allow the growth of lactic acid bacteria. Red wines at a higher temperature are suitable for MLF with general recommendations between 18 22 °C. In traditional winemaking regions, MLF is initiated in spring where the wines are monitored for the formation of L-Lactic acid bacteria and thus warming down the fermentor to ensure timely completion of MLF (LOUBSER, 2005). Free SO2 : It is important to maintain Sulfur dioxide levels in malolactic fermentation. Sulfur dioxide is added to prevent formation of undesirable lactic acid bacteria. Most species of Lactic acid bacteria are more sensitive to Sulfur dioxide than Saccharomyces species. The free form of SO2 is responsible for inhibited the undesirable lactic acid bacteria. The free SO2 is dependent on pH. The typical range of sulfite that is required needs to be added for white wines are 20-30 ppm and 30-50 ppm for red wines(LOUBSER, 2005). Nutrient Composition: Lactic acid bacteria are more specific than yeasts and require additional micronutrients and growth factors. Availability of nutrients is essential for the malolactic conversion. Compared to yeast lactic acid bacteria also requires presence of additional amino acids. At the end of alcoholic fermentation, yeasts release amino acids and thus there is no limitation of amino acids during MLF. Autolysis of yeasts also increases micronutrient concentration. It has been reported that malolactic fermentation occurs better during pre-yeast fermentation or after the release of amino acids. However it limits the MLF when the lactic acid bacteria is added during the alcoholic fermentation. There are mixtures of lactic acid nutrients available commercially and it is required to time the addition of nutrients during the fermentation process(Torriani et al., 2011). Oxygen: Oxygen stimulates MLF. It is one of the growth factor for lactic acid bacteria. However, the effect of oxygen varies with different species as few LAB get inhibited by oxygen. Oxygen level needs to be at a controlled level as higher oxygen level may sometimes lead to the production of acetic acid and undesirable end products. There have been occurrence of acetic acid accumulation in the wine when the Malolactic enzymatic activity occurs before the alcoholic fermentation. This is reported to occur alongside the aeration of juice or grape must(Comfort, 2011). CO2 : Carbon dioxide stimulates MLF and helps with better vortex and mixing inside the fermentor. It also affects the buffering capacity of wine(Comfort, 2011). ADDRESSING ISSUES OF HIGHER OR LOWER ACID CONTENT: High level of acidity often occur in grape musts that are derived from grapes grown in cooler regions like France, Germany, cold regions of Australia. The wines made from these cold region vines, have improved flavour, microbial stability due to malolactic fermentation. Although sometimes the MLF may lead to excessive or lower acid content and sensory attributes(Massera et al., 2009). These issues can be addressed by two ways: The initial Malic acid level in the must needs to be estimated which will help choose specific maloalcoholic strains. with higher malic acid levels, maloalcoholic yeast strains works better in controlling the acidity level(Massera et al., 2009). There is another concern of development of excess diacetyl. The level of diacetyl increases by two metabolic pathways. One way they are formed is by metabolism of citric acid. Most wines have citric acid in them and some are produced even during primary fermentation. Hence by the end of Malolactic fermentation, the malic acid depletes and levels of diacetyl increase due to citric acid metabolism(Versari et al., 1999). During the citric acid metabolism, acetic acid is also produced that contributes to volatile acidity. One of the way to tackle excess diacetyl is by using malolactic cultures that have lower citrate metabolism like Lalvin MT01. Another way of which excess diacetyl gets produced is when the malolactic bacteria metabolizes malic acid. For example, in dry wines sugars like pentoses can be metabolized by lactic acid bacteria but cannot be yeast fermentable. Diacetyl is produced when these sugars are metabolized. This can again be prevented with regular monitoring of malic a cid levels and stabilize the process when they are reduced(Massera et al., 2009). During low acid conditions and high pH wines produced from warm climate vine, it is better to acidify the grape musts to favourable levels before primary fermentation. Malolactic fermentation of such low acid wines increases microbial stability and wine quality(LOUBSER, 2005). MLF MONITORING: Acidification of low acid musts is required for grapes and musts that are derived from vines of warm region. Adjusting pH and acidity before alcoholic fermentation is required. When Stronger acids like tartaric acid or DL- malic acid is used when the titratable acidity needs to be adjusted(Miller et al., 2011). Deacidification of musts with higher acid content Using engineered yeasts(Miller et al., 2011) CONCLUSION: To obtain a desirable flavour profile through malolactic bacteria, various factors are needed to be considered and observed. Wine should be present at a temperature of more than 15 °C and nutrients can be supplemented during the fermentation process. Because sometimes high solid content may halt the fermentation of wine. It is better to rely on a Malolactic inoculum rather than spontaneous initiation of Malolactic fermentation(Toit, 2011). The ethanol content should be regulated such that it does not inhibit the malolactic fermentation. It has been found that the lactic acid bacteria that grows in higher ethanol content will produce off flavours and unwanted end products in the wine. To summarise it is known that MLF can be stimulated by low or no use of free sulfur dioxide, warm temperatures, supplementing nutrients to the culture, lowering the ethanol content, adjusting the level of acid and pH range. REFERENCES: BARTOWSKY, E. J. 2005. Oenococcus oeni and malolactic fermentation – moving into the molecular arena. Australian Journal of Grape and Wine Research, 11, 174-187. BISSON, L. F. 2004. The Biotechnology of Wine Yeast. Food Biotechnology, 18, 63-96. CHALFAN, Y., GOLDBERG, I. MATELES, R. I. 1977. ISOLATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF MALO-LACTIC BACTERIA FROM ISRAELI RED WINES. Journal of Food Science, 42, 939-943. CHRIS POWELL, S. V. Z. A. R. D. 2005. THE MICROBIOLOGY OF MALOLACTIC FERMENTATION. International Journal of Food Microbiology. COMFORT, S. A. J. 2011. Malolactic Fermentation. KURANE, A. B. GHOSH, J. S. 2012. Malolactic fermentation of grape wine by Lactococcus lactis var cremoris NCIM 2402. International Food Research Journal, 19, 1767-1770. LÓPEZ, R., LÓPEZ-ALFARO, I., GUTIÉRREZ, A. R., TENORIO, C., GARIJO, P., GONZà LEZ-ARENZANA, L. SANTAMARà A, P. 2011. Malolactic fermentation of Tempranillo wine: contribution of the lactic acid bacteria inoculation to sensory quality and chemical composition. International Journal of Food Science Technology, 46, 2373-2381. LOUBSER, P. 2005. ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS AFFECTING MALOLACTIC FERMENTATION. MALOLACTIC FERMENTATION IN WINE UNDERSTANDING THE SCIENCE AND THE PRACTICE. MASSERA, A., SORIA, A., CATANIA, C., KRIEGER, S. COMBINA, M. 2009. Simultaneous Inoculation of Malbec (Vitis vinifera) Musts with Yeast and Bacteria: Effects on Fermentation Performance, Sensory and Sanitary Attributes of Wines. Food Technology Biotechnology, 47, 192-201. MILLER, B. J., FRANZ, C. M. A. P., GYO-SUNG, C. DU TOIT, M. 2011. Expression of the Malolactic Enzyme Gene ( mle) from Lactobacillus plantarum Under Winemaking Conditions. Current Microbiology, 62, 1682-1688. SEMON, M. J., EDWARDS, C. G., FORSYTH, D. DINN, C. O. 2001. Inducing malolactic fermentation in Chardonnay musts and wines using different strains of Oenococcus oeni. Australian Journal of Grape and Wine Research, 7, 52-59. SOLIERI, L., GENOVA, F., DE PAOLA, M. GIUDICI, P. 2010. Characterization and technological properties of Oenococcus oeni strains from wine spontaneous malolactic fermentations: a framework for selection of new starter cultures. Journal of Applied Microbiology, 108, 285-298. TOIT, M. 2011. Lactobacillus: the Next Generation of Malolactic Fermentation Starter Cultures-an Overview. Food and Bioprocess Technology, 4, 876. TORRIANI, S., FELIS, G. E. FRACCHETTI, F. 2011. Selection criteria and tools for malolactic starters development: an update. Annals of Microbiology, 61, 33-39. VERSARI, A., PARPINELLO, G. P. CATTANEO, M. 1999. Leuconostoc oenos and malolactic fermentation in wine: a review. Journal of Industrial Microbiology Biotechnology, 23, 447.

I am the Cheese - Theme :: Free Essay Writer

I am the Cheese - Theme Heroes are not always credited for their honesty and righteousness. This is the view towards society that Robert Cormier exhibits in the novel  ¡Ã‚ §I am the Cheese ¡Ã‚ ¨, where the individual is punished for standing up to himself. In this society, the non-valiant are rewarded for their ignorance and compliance, narrated through the characters of Grey and Whipper. Moreover, Robert Cormier portrays this society to be void of truth and justice. This is seen through exploring the innocence behind Adam ¡Ã‚ ¦s parents ¡Ã‚ ¦ suffering and death. Nevertheless, the author holds reserve for truth and justice when Adam tries to complete the puzzle of his past. The character David Farmer, father of the novel ¡Ã‚ ¦s protagonist, plays the victim of the society in  ¡Ã‚ §I am the cheese. ¡Ã‚ ¨ Through testifying to the truth, he and his family have had their freedom lacerated, and ultimately, have suffered the penalty of death. David Farmer began the case with the belief that  ¡Ã‚ §he would be protected, his identity kept secret. ¡Ã‚ ¨ Although aware of the perilous circumstances and the hazards, his determination to act patriotically prevailed. His powerful motive for his precarious action was that  ¡Ã‚ §he was an old-fashioned citizen who believed in doing the right thing for his country, to provide as much information as possible. ¡Ã‚ ¨ David Farmer was under no obligation to disclose his researched information, and yet chose to take the risk. Clearly, this is an example of an individual standing up to himself, acting accordingly to his own beliefs and values. Nevertheless, David Farmer and his family were punished lethally. E ven the interim between the testimony and his death was a metaphor for a cage, an insecure prison bound for the Never Knows, and yet was always destined for death. The example of the bomb that was planted to detonate the entire family and the  ¡Ã‚ §undercover policeman ¡Ã‚ ¨ whose supposed job was to protect heralded an unending chain of misery. These events introduced Grey, who identified himself to be involved with the US Department of Re-Identification. Grey, who shot the assassin, was the trusting saviour of David Farmer. Grey warned the Farmer family about the car bomb. He distributed new identities for the entire family, produced new birth certificates and arranged a move to Massachusetts. He was the eternal alert watchdog who packed the family away when chances took their position for a Farmer whereabouts leak. Grey had the power to dismiss 3 lives at his will.

Ford Focus vs. Mazda Mazda 3

Ford Focus vs. Mazda Mazda 3 Two great new cars out there are the Ford Focus and the Mazda 3. If you’re looking for a fast car with the latest technology then you’ll have a tough decision between these two cars. In an opinion, the Ford Focus is the best for a family and the Mazda for enjoyment. They both set with GPS system, inline-4 engine, and chassis platform. They also have some differences as in the gas mileage, performance, and equipment. When it comes down to the end of it all, they are lot closer in ratings than usual cars are.The first and most important is the safety, especially if you have children. Both of the cars are an average of 4-4. 5 in top rating, but the Mazda 3 only has 3 stars in side crash rating, while the Ford Focus as a 4 in frontal crash rating. One big advantage of the Ford Focus is the technology which could also help in safety. The Ford has a navigation system, park assist, bi-xenon adaptive lightning, memory power sears, blond-spot monitor ing, and a ten-speaker Bose surround sound system.These cars have many similarities, but have more differences. The choice lies between your personality, budget, and your family. If you have a big family, of course you’re going to go for the bigger, safer car. Now if you’re single of don’t have a big family, then you would most likely lean towards the sporty car for looks. The biggest is your budget, we all need some help in the economy now of days, so you might go to the car with better millage and cheaper.

Use of a Redox Indicator to show Dehydrogenase Activity

Triphenyl tetrazolium chloride (also known as T.T.C) is an example of an artificial hydrogen acceptor. It is a redox indicator which is colourless when oxidised, however when reduced, it produces a red, insoluble precipitate called ‘formazans'. T.T.C can therefore be used to investigate the enzyme activity of dehyrogenase enzymes by showing a colour change when they are present. The purpose of this experiment is to see what effect temperature has on the activity of dehydrogenase enzymes within yeast cells. Materials/Apparatus: * Actively respiring yeast suspension. This is prepared by adding 10g of dried yeast to 1dm3 of distilled water, followed by mixing in 50g of glucose. This mixture should be allowed to stand for 24 hours before the experiment takes place. * Tiphenyl tetrazolium chloride is used as a redox indicator to investigate the activity of dehydrogenase enzymes when yeast suspension is exposed to different temperatures. * Distilled water for the preparation of the yeast suspension. * Test tubes to place the mixture of yeast and T.T.C. * Test tube rack to allow the test tubes to stand upright in the water baths. * Incubator to allow enzyme activity to occur at different temperatures * Syringes to accurately measure the right amount of yeast and T.T.C needed for each solution. * A Glass rod to evenly distribute the cells in the solution after the T.T.C has been added. * Crushed ice to allow the dehyrogenase activity to take place at 10degrees. * Beakers for the yeast suspension to be prepared in. * Thermometer to measure the temperature of the water bath containing the ice cubes. * Stopwatch to measure the time taken for the solution to change colour. NOTE: The colour change is completed once the solution has turned a ‘salmon pink' colour. Allow all solutions to reach the same colour before removing them from the water baths. Method: Prepare a solution of yeast cells by adding 10g of dried yeast to 1dm3 of distilled water, followed by mixing in 50g of glucose. This mixture should be allowed to stand for 24 hours before the experiment takes place. Once the yeast suspension has been allowed to stand for 24 hours, the froth should be removed and discarded. Set up a water bath by adding ice cubes to cold water, until the water has reached 10degrees. Continue to measure the temperature with a thermometer ensuring that the temperature is maintained. Set up separate incubators at 30, 40, 50 and 60 degrees. Using a syringe, place 5cm of yeast suspension into three separate test tubes and place in the incubator. Leave for several minutes and then add 0.5cm of T.T.C into each solution and place them back into the incubator set at 30degrees. Start the stopwatch immediately. Observe carefully for any colour changes that have developed. When the colour change has taken place, take the test tubes out of the incubator and note down the time taken for the colour change to take place. Repeat this procedure at 20, 40, 50 and 60 degrees. To measure the dehydrogenase activity at 20 degrees, carry out this procedure at room temperature. Table of results: Temperature (degrees) Time taken for colour change to occur (minutes) 10 No change 20 52.11 30 26.12 40 10.08 50 4.22 60 4.43 A bar graph has been produced to portray these results so that a comparison can clearly be seen. The graph has been drawn on graph paper. Conclusion: The results from this experiment indicate that temperature has a definite affect on the activity of dehydrogenase enzymes. The graph shows that as the temperature increases, the time taken for the solution to change colour decreases. This shows that dehyrogenase enzymes work faster at a higher temperature as there was no colour change when the T.T.C was added to the yeast suspension at 10 degrees. The temperature at which the dehydrogenase enzymes worked at their quickest was 50 degrees. This indicates that 50 degrees is the optimum temperature for the enzyme activity to take place as the colour change took slightly longer when placed in a water bath set at 60 degrees. This may be due to the fact that some of the dehydrogenase enzymes could have been denatured due to the high temperature. However, it is not quite clear whether 50 degrees is the optimum temperature for the enzyme activity to take place because this experiment took place using a limited amount of temperature ranges. If this investigation was to be repeated, a wider range of temperatures could be used so that an optimum temperature could be established. Overall, the results from this experiment support the hypothesis and therefore have provided successful and sufficient data which have confirmed the predictions that were made prior to the investigation taking place.

Consumer Behavior on Black Friday

Running Head: Black Friday Consumer Behavior on Black Friday Abstract The purpose of this research is to examine consumer behavior on Black Friday. Black Friday is typically the busiest shopping day of the year, and it is all driven by the chance for consumers to save the most amount of money possible while getting their holiday shopping done. Research was done online, and also through personal experiences. By understanding what retailers and consumers hope to accomplish on this day can have a positive impact on everyone. Consumers are able to get what they want with the least amount of turmoil, and retailers are able to turn a profit. This research can be most helpful to merchants, as it will help them to understand what a consumer wants, and what they expect the unofficial holiday to be like. A complication with this research is that each consumer is different and may have different expectations in mind. Concentrating on making Black Friday as organized as possible will only benefit all parties involved. Introduction Black Friday refers to the day after Thanksgiving, which is the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season. Black Friday is a day when stores dramatically discount products with the intention of luring in the highest number of shoppers possible. The term Black Friday received its name because that is a day when, hopefully, businesses balance sheets go from red, a loss, to black, a profit (Staff, 2010). It can be a day of chaos, as seen in 2008 when a Walmart employee was trampled to death by a mob of customers (Gould, Trapasso, & Schapiro, 2008). But many that day focus on saving money, and are willing to wait in lines for days for a deal. Impulsive Consumption Some of the purchases made on Black Friday may be impulsive. The textbook states that impulsive consumption is usually spontaneous and involves some feelings of liberation; is associated with a lessened sense of costs or consequences; and is motivated by a need for immediate self-fulfillment (Babin & Harris, 2011). Consumers who go to a store for only a couple of items may find themselves enticed by other items that are on sale. The average person spent $365. 34 during Black Friday weekend 2010, for a total of approximately $45 billion total spent nationally (Chang, 2010). Unplanned purchases may be made because although a consumer went to a store for one sale, they may not have known all the other items that are discounted that day, and may make other purchases. Because many Black Friday shoppers are actually holiday shopping for other people, it is easy to look for a gift for one person, but find those perfect gifts for the other four people on your list, all in the name of getting a good deal. Social Environment Social environment is defined in the text as â€Å"the other customers and employees in a service or shopping environment (Babin & Harris, 2011). Normally, people may be put off by crowding at stores. However, it is the norm on Black Friday. Although it is still unfavorable, it is something that people are willing to adapt to for the day. It may give a sense of urgency, which will put a consumer into the mindset of action. The text also refers to shopping buddies. Many people who wait in line for hours or even days on Black Friday do not do so alone. There are usually small groups of people, which may help to make consumers feel more comfortable. Consumers are taking more time to find buddies to shop with, and they are making an effort to have a plan in mind for what stores they will visit, and what they will purchase. For people who wait in lines for extended periods, they usually create some type of habitat to pass the time. Consumers bring tents, chairs and heaters to make themselves more comfortable. Some even bring electrical items such as lighting, computers or small televisions to keep them company while waiting for the savings to begin. The people in line usually form temporary relationships with the people that are around them. Sharing stories or deals that they are interested in is a far cry from the massive chaos shown on television news stories. Attitudes People may get caught up in the excitement of the day, and that can help them to spend even more money. While waiting in line, customers at the front of the line seem to be excited and happy. However, at the end of the line, customers appear to be more frustrated and anxious. Some consumers plan their Black Friday shopping trips weeks in advance. There are many websites available for people to view Black Friday advertisements online, before they are supposed to be released to the public. Walmart has tried year after year for the advertisements not to be leaked, but they usually end up on these websites before they are supposed to (4 Years Strong: Walmart Sends Another Cease & Desist, 2011). Stores may not want to have their advertisements released early for a couple of reasons. First, consumers having the ability to research products and having too much time to explore all of their options may mean that consumers will not make as many spontaneous purchases on Black Friday. They also do not want to have their competition see their deals, and then have them beat their prices. Having the advertisements earlier though means consumers are able to plan what stores they want to go to, which may lead to less chaos on the actual day. People are motivated by saving money on Black Friday. Some consumers may even see it as a competition. For some, because there is only a limited selection available for many of the items that are drastically reduced, just acquiring that item may be all the motivation someone needs to be at the front of the line on Black Friday. A consumer may feel a sense of empowerment, or the thrill of winning, which will only intensify their moods for the day. A consumer may be more likely to make a purchase of something out of the ordinary because of the price on Black Friday. The perceived risk is lower because the consumer balances the risk with the monetary discount that is offered, and can write it off easier. Normally, consumers may think thoroughly about an electronics purchase. However, electronics are usually a major seller on Black Friday. Because the discount is thought to be so significant, and the consumer thinks there are only a limited number available, they do not have time to think the purchase through like the normally would, and they make the purchase. What people are buying Each year, electronics are the one of the most widely sought after products on Black Friday. In 2009, the introduction of Zhu-Zhu Pets was the top search on Google referring to Black Friday sales (Wong, 2009). Surprisingly, rugs and jewelry were also top searches in 2009. In 2010, the iPad and other tablets were the top searches in electronics (Andrew, 2010). They were ollowed by laptops and HDTV’s. Handheld gadgets are expected to be a top seller for 2011. E-readers, tablets, music players and smart phones all seem to be popular searches for the upcoming holiday (Black Friday 2011 Predictions, 2011). Televisions and accessories are normally highly discounted on Black Friday, and 2011 should be no different. There may be more sales on 3D televisions, blu-ray players, and bundles of the televisions with the accessories. Cyber Monday Some consumers do not want to brave the chaos of Black Friday, and have moved to online shopping, while still looking for the dramatic discounts. Online purchases have grown steadily over the past few years, and in 2005, the term â€Å"Cyber Monday† was created (â€Å"Cyber Monday† Quickly Becoming One of the Biggest Online Shopping Days of the Year, 2005). In 2010, Black Friday sales grew 9% from the year before, but Cyber Monday sales grew 16% (U. S. Online Holiday Shopping Season Reaches Record $32. 6 Billion for November-December Period, Up 12 Percent vs. Year Ago, 01). Cyber Monday 2010 was the first billion-dollar spending day in history, and the first time that sales on Monday were higher than Friday. Many people have a four-day weekend for Thanksgiving, and are back to work on Monday. A large number of consumers are able to place orders right from a work computer, or even their smart phones. Smart phones are also making it easier for consumers to do research on sales, and to do the shopping itself. Online Black Friday sales increased 11% from 2008-2009 (Wong, 2009). Retailer Organization Most consumers on Black Friday have the same goal; to save money. If the stores are able to have some form of organization on Black Friday, it should help to keep the customers organized also. Chaos is more likely to happen when the store is not prepared for the massive number of shoppers. If the store makes adjustments to the way they normally operate, they are more likely to have an easier time handling the crowds. Passing out tickets to the customers in line for big ticket items is becoming the norm for many stores (Palmer, 2010). By doing so, customers are able to be sure they are going to receive the item they came to purchase, and it is easier to explain when they are sold out of a particular item. Also, some stores are able to rearrange their stores and put the items that are on sale in a particular area, so customers will not have to search all around the store, adding to the chaos. Many stores are choosing to open very early, with some retailers, such as Toys R Us even opening on Thanksgiving night at 10 P. M (Toys†R†Us Stores Nationwide to Open at 10pm on Thanksgiving Night to Welcome Black Friday Shoppers Earlier Than Ever Before with 200 Doorbusters and More Than $11,000 in Savings on Hot Toys, 2010). As this was only introduced in 2010, it remains unknown whether other stores will follow the idea. Having enough employees at check-out and for assisting customers is also essential. Retailers may want to also hire some form of security for the day, to prevent mobs of people causing chaos. No matter how prepared a shopper may be on Black Friday, if the store is unorganized or does not have a sensible system in place, chaos may ensue because of the consumers confusion or frustrations. Customers also look for even further discounts on Black Friday by using coupons. Retailers may want to include in their advertisements and stores about their coupon acceptance policy on Black Friday. If a customer waits in line for hours, then goes in the store to get an item, then waits in line for another hour to check-out, only to find that their coupon will not be accepted, that consumer may get very irritated and that will cause further problems. Conclusion Black Friday is a day that retailers hope to make the most amount of profit. But for consumers, they hope to save as much money as possible. Many consumers make impulsive shopping decisions on Black Friday. The social environment may lead to this behavior, as many shoppers are with friends or family, and make a display out of their shopping practices on that day. The attitudes of people can vary greatly on that day also. Most people are excited, but that can turn to frustration if it does not go as planned. Purchasing trends can vary each year, depending on what the newest items are. Electronics and the newest toys are usually very popular items. Cyber Monday is also changing the way people shop, and helping them to save even more money from the comfort of their home, from work, or even on their smart phone. A retailer being organized on Black Friday is imperative, as it can affect consumer behavior and how much money they spend. References 4 Years Strong: Walmart Sends Another Cease & Desist. (2011, 10 14). Retrieved 10 22, 2011, from http://bfads. net/ Andrew. (2010, 11 15). Holiday Shopping Trends and. Retrieved 10 23, 2011, from http://www. retrevo. com/content/node/1570 Babin, B. J. , & Harris, E. G. (2011). CB2. Mason, OH: South-Western Cengage Learning. Black Friday 2011 Predictions. (2011, 10 11). Retrieved 10 23, 2011, from http://www. blackfriday2011. om/news/2011/10/11/black-friday-2011-predictions/ Chang, A. (2010, 11 28). Big Black Friday weekend results: 212 million shoppers, $45 billion spent. Retrieved 10 21, 2011, from http://latimesblogs. latimes. com/money_co/2010/11/big-black-friday-weekend-results-212-million-shoppers-and-45-billion-spent. html â€Å"Cyber Monday† Quickly Becoming One of the Biggest Online Shopping Days of the Year. (2005, 11 21). Retrieved 23 2011, 10, from http://www. shop. org/c/journal_articles/view_article_content? groupId=1&articleId=623&version=1. 0 Gould, J. , Trapasso, C. & Schapiro, R. (2008, 11 28). Worker dies at Long Island Wal-Mart after being trampled in Black Friday stampede. Retrieved 10 21, 2011, from http://articles. nydailynews. com/2008-11-28/local/17910475_1_wal-mart-worker-long-island-wal-mart-jdimytai-damour Palmer, K. (2010, 11 23). Black Friday Guide to the Best Deals and Steals. Retrieved 10 23, 2011, from http://money. usnews. com/money/personal-finance/articles/2010/11/23/black-friday-guide-to-the-best-deals-and-steals Staff, L. L. (2010, 11 24). Business News Daily. Retrieved 10 21, 2011, from http://www. businessnewsdaily. om/how-did-black-friday-and-cyber-monday-get-their-names–0754/ Toys†R†Us Stores Nationwide to Open at 10pm on Thanksgiving Night to Welcome Black Friday Shoppers Earlier Than Ever Before with 200 Doorbusters and More Than $11,000 in Savings on Hot Toys. (2010, 11 16). Retrieved 10 23, 2011, from http://www. prnewswire. com/news-releases/toysrus-stores-nationwide-to-open-at-10pm-on-thanksgiving-night-to-welcome-black-friday-shoppers-earlier-than-ever-before-with-200-doorbusters-and-more-than-11000-in-savings-on-hot-toys-108565064. html U. S. Online Holiday Shopping Season Reaches Record $32. 6 Billion for

An Empirical Investigation of the Corporate Culture-Financial Article

An Empirical Investigation of the Corporate Culture-Financial Performance Relationship in Multinational Corporations - Article Example Webster's Dictionary defines corporate culture as "the shared values, traditions, customers, philosophy, and policies of a corporation; also, the professional atmosphere that grows from this and affects behavior and performance." In essence, "corporate culture is the personality of your organization. It's the way your company does business and how it conducts itself. It's employees' beliefs and expectations of work." (Ceridian, 2005). Corporate culture and the cultural statements that it engenders then become the modus operandi for corporate members when the executives' voice and document the values of the corporation to provide models for how corporate members should behave (1000ventures). There are various numbers of definitions available regarding corporate culture. Various academic scholars and authors have defined it in different ways. Despite having differences in definitions many would agree on one thing that corporate culture can be referred to as a set of values, beliefs, and behavior patterns that form the core identity of the organization, and help shape the employees' behavior ( Rashid et al, 2003). According to Tichy et al ( 1982), corporate culture is a directive glue where the appropriate questions to ask concern the values and beliefs that are needed to support the corporate strategy, the subcultures that might also contribute to this goal and whether or not there should be an umbrella corporate culture as well. As an extension of the foregoing, another question is also on the role of the human resources department in shaping and molding the corporate culture. Corporate culture can also be interpreted as collective mental programming that binds the organization together through shared values, which ensure that employees are committed to their nominated responsibilities which can lead to achieving organizational goals together ( Hofstede, 1980). Much of what has been written on the definition of corporate culture proceeds by comparison of one type with another. Culture is by definition a varied and variable subject. There is no overall cultural norm in the world, nor any cultural "mean" or average that can be usefully applied. By comparison with the financial sections of corporate annual reports that allow average revenue, profitability, investment and so on to be calculated precisely (which is not necessarily the same as meaningfully), corporate culture requires a different tack (Hofstede, 1980). Having said that culture is defined by comparison, rather than any intrinsic and absolute qualities, corporate culture does display a difference in how it acquires shape and form. Within the corporate environment, culture is strongly influenced by the corporate leaders who are natural role models for other employees. The qualities of a leader in his opinion are forged by experience, trial and error, and practical application. The more a leader has been exposed to these aspects, the stronger the leadership becomes and the more influence the leader exerts on the corporate culture of the company concerned (Mintzberg, 1989).

Collaborative Scholarly Journal ( sport ) Essay

Collaborative Scholarly Journal ( sport ) - Essay Example From early teenage years, persons seem paying attention on the collection of a vocation sport that makes them the all rounder and the excitement and the enjoyment taken up by them. Normally, this childhood selection rotates approximately a fire fighter, veterinarian, sportsperson, channel, and the resembling. The sport science discipline and the business of sport are without difference in regards to other respective industries. The study was mainly to analyze the advantages and the benefits of sports on the students self concept. The method we adopt to understand the particular method is the systematic review; the systematic review helps to get the entire information and the opinions of the various opinions of the various authors about the topic. Usually, research has specified students who are elsewhere for exercise be likely to perform better than non-athletes in the class rooms, Student-athletes frequently have to go behind a system of manner. This code of conduct can comprise abstaining from alcohol consumption and smoking, subsequent to correct behaviors, and preserving minimum grade in arrange to uphold eligibility (Medford School Policy Handbook, 2000). The findings of Zaugg (1998) sustain the plan that athletes have less behavioral problems than non-athletes. This is typically a consequence of school policy that state if an athlete miss lessons (unexcused) they do not engage in recreation or perform with the team that day. in addition, students with detentions or postponement miss practice and games awaiting the detention is provided. Many instructors will often dismiss players who have behaved badly throughout school. â€Å"Social recognition of sport participation and competition are external sources of enjoyment for many. Student-athletes often enjoy being rewarded for their work and dedication. In many schools, athletes are recognized through announcements,

The Electoral College Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

The Electoral College - Essay Example This research will begin with the definition of the Electoral College as a system of indirect voting applied for the presidential elections in the USA. The Electoral College concept can be interpreted as an opposite voting mechanism to the majority system which counts directly the citizens’ votes and whoever candidate gets the majority of votes becomes president of the state. If the majority system had been applied to the Presidential elections in 2000, for instance, Al Gore would have been the winner since he received the majority of popular votes. When the Electoral College cast their votes the winner in that elections turned out to be his opponent: G.W. Bush. I will refer to the case as one of the four exceptions of the general rule according to which if a candidate wins the public vote he presumably wins the Electoral college vote too. During the times of the state legislation formation a group of framers, The Founding Fathers, known as the   "Committee of Eleven" in the Constitutional Convention, proposed an indirect election of president through a College of Electors: The function of the College of Electors in choosing the president can be likened to that in the Roman Catholic Church of the College of Cardinals selecting the Pope. The structure of the Electoral College can be traced to the Centurial Assembly system of the Roman Republic. Under that system, the adult male citizens of Rome were divided, according to their wealth, into groups of 100 (called Centuries).... citizens go to local voting booths to elect the next president and vice president of the country. Their votes are recorded and counted, then winners are declared. But the results of the popular vote are not guaranteed to stand because the Electoral College has not cast its vote. The size of the Electoral college has been set at 538 since the election of 1964. Each state is allocated as many electors as it has Representatives and Senators in the United States Congress. The number of electors is equal to the total membership of both houses of Congress (100 Senators and 435 Representatives) plus the 3 electors allocated to the District of Columbia, totalling 538 electors. How different is the process in different states - For 48 states it's known as the "winner-take-all system." The "district system," is observed in both Maine and Nebraska. In these states, two electors' votes are made based on the candidate who received the most votes statewide. The remaining electoral votes go by congressional districts, awarding the vote to the candidate who received the most votes in each district. How the electors are chosen in each state - All depends on the state legislature. According to Howstuffworks web site there are two common ways of selection: The elector is nominated by his or her state party committee (perhaps to reward many years of service to the party). The elector "campaigns" for a spot and the decision is made during a vote held at the state's party convention. (Howstuffworks) According to the Constitution there are no real educational or racial restrictions in order to classify for elector. In fact, electors are usually people devoted to politics, active political party members or political

Psychology assignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Psychology assignment - Essay Example Sometimes it is defined as the ability of a person to cognitively manipulate information and problem solve. Many tests, such as the SAT and/or ACT, are designed to capture these cognitive abilities through appraising skills in arithmetic and reading. However, many psychologists and scientists alike argue whether this is a fair assessment of intelligence. One of the more encompassing theories of intelligence comes from Howard Gardner who developed the Theory of Multiple Intelligences. Gardner proposed that there were seven â€Å"types† of intelligence: linguistic, logical-mathematical, musical, bodily-kinesthetic, spatial, interpersonal, and intrapersonal intelligence. This theory into intelligence provided a good explanation for why those that have impaired cognitive abilities could still perform a concerto or create an artistic masterpiece (Shaffer, and Kipp 350-52). Raymond Cattell theorized another important component in which intelligence is commonly defined. He postulated two main components of intelligence: crystallized intelligence and fluid intelligence. Crystalline intelligence consists of all the knowledge we have complied together in memory and is stored for future use. Fluidic intelligence refers to our problem solving ability and the ability/speed in which we are able to process information. These types of intelligences are inversely proportional, meaning that the older we get the more developed our crystalline intelligence gets and our fluid intelligence decreases (Sigelman, and Rider 227). This can show a trend in both the biological and environmental conditions resulting in intelligence in relation to the aging process. Psychology has been a field of study, which has been influenced by a wide variety of other disciplines such as biology, philosophy, and culture. This is because the field of psychology intertwines ideas from all of these areas, which prompted the questioning of whether the majority of psychological phenomenon was the resul t of the biologically driven concept or whether it was the result of the environment. Many different aspects of psychology are more driven by these components. Theories dealing in the sub-discipline of neuroscience and clinical disorders often are driven by the biology. Thoughts such as in many counseling theories and health psychology relate directly to the environment in which the individual is interacting with. Therefore, many have taken the middle ground by showing that psychology is influenced by epigenetic principles, which relies on the premise that both biology and environment equally influence the course of a person’s development. The beginning of the nature vs. nurture debate in regards to intelligence started with Francis Galton. He was a cousin to evolutionary biologist Charles Darwin. Galton followed the studies of his cousin and took a strong interest in his theories of natural selection and the involvement of the selection of traits. He also had knowledge in th e field of genetics where it was hypothesized that information and hereditary traits were past from parent to offspring through genes. Therefore, Galton hypothesized that no amount of schooling and studying could affect one’s intelligence due to the fact that keys of intelligence are passed through genetics and that this ran in families. Galton was the scientist who coined the term â€Å"