Delphi Technique of Forecasting Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Delphi Technique of Forecasting - Case Study Example There after results are tabulated and issues raised are identified one by one. This step helps the planner to carefully study the various important issues to be addressed in the next round. It needs to be mentioned here that it is the same questionnaire that is given to all the experts in the panel. These days the questionnaire is sent through mail. Now we come to the second round where the planar tries to hold a meeting with all the experts together and the results of the questionnaire are then return the experts. There are issues where experts agree where as there are some other issues on which they disagree. It is carefully noted by the planner and a general consensus is reached. Finally we come to the third round where the various factors are reevaluated by everyone together and the issues are carefully discussed. In this particular Delphi method group judgments are more important than individual judgments. Information processing. The experts collect the answers in the form of questionnaires and comments. The panel head controls the exchange of ideas among the experts by processing the data and deleting the unnecessary content. Usually the experts engage in disagreements during the panel discussion and hence it has negative effect. Anonymity of participants. ... Regular Feedback: The experts give comments on their own forecasts and it is very much valued by the planner. Anonymity of participants. There is complete anonymity of the participants because the nature of the experts might vary and during the discussion they may try to bully others or some not voice their opinion due to fear of opposition. Role of the facilitator. The role of the facilitator is very important during the discussion among the experts. He interprets the various view points raised by the participants and comes to a conclusion. Uses of Delphi Method in forecasting The Delphi method is very useful in the field of science & technology. Since my organization is into a broadband connection it is particularly very helpful in analyzing the market. The researcher of my organization through his questionnaire has tries to find out the demand of various broadband connection plans across the length and breadth of the country since India has a huge market which needs to be covered by the internet network the feedback given by the participants becomes very valuable to the company. The feedback highlighted various issues on which the experts agreed i.e. the example the different broadband scheme to suit everybody's budget. But they disagreed as to the pricing of the various connection plans. But however a general consensus was reached in the final round and the outcome was positive. The Delphi method however has its drawbacks and may not be always as accurate as it states but the method is not at fault rather the reporting or the interpretation of the feedback taken from the participants may not necessarily give us the true picture as to the future predictions. The

Marketing Myopia and article critiques Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Marketing Myopia and article critiques - Essay Example Levitt spoke of the ‘Error of Analysis’ whereby, the company defines its scope inaccurately and is unable to grow because it has restricted itself. Companies tend to stop growing, not because of fall in demand or increased competition, but because they were mismanaged and failed to realize their own potential and the opportunities that would have come with it had they managed themselves properly and expanded their horizons, instead of having a very myopic view about their business. He gives the example of the railway, which has steadily declined over the years as other vehicles become mainstream transport. This failure is not because the demand for rail travel declined, it is because they had a â€Å"product-oriented instead of customer-oriented† approach (Levitt, 1960). In the same vein, the TV business is bigger than the film business ever was, just because Hollywood restricted itself to movies by categorizing itself as being in the film business and not the ent ertainment business and massively restricting its horizons. To explain the reverse side of the argument, TV is a success story because it has not restricted itself to one category. ... Levitt talks of the ‘Shadow of Obsolescence’ whereby companies stop growing once their products lose the sparkle, this often happens when a specific feature of their product that was supposed to have been bringing in the demand, becomes outdated and easily substituted by competition with time. He gives the example of the dry cleaning industry. Once thriving because it provided an effective way to clean wool garments, the industry is now dwindling as synthetic fibers replace wool, ones which are easier to clean and the dry cleaning industry becomes obsolete due to innovative products such as automatic washing machines. Another mistake is the ‘Population Myth’ whereby companies assume that a growing population is synonymous with a growing market demand and the ‘Idea of Indispensability’ whereby companies think they are safe from competition because their product is irreplaceable. This lulls them into a false sense of security and they end up funct ioning under a complacent strategy. An example of this scenario is the petroleum industry; due to its elaborate success throughout its history the petroleum industry has become complacent in its strategy and assumes safely that as long as the world’s population keeps growing, its customer base will forever increase. Complacency however, makes the industry myopic to the fact that many people are now becoming environment conscious and are interested in adopting alternative forms of energy that do not pollute, unlike petroleum products. Another mistake is due to ‘Production Pressures’, since companies are so engrossed in meeting production quota deadlines they lose focus of their

Industry Forces and the Generic Strategies

Industry Forces and the Generic Strategies Chapter 2 2.0 Literature Review In this chapter, the author will review the literature concerning Michael Porters Five Competitive Industry Forces and the Generic Strategies. This study centres on the housing industry and draws parallels to studies done by others. The author will critically evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the model. 2.1 Background Numerous studies have been done around the world to develop and market housing projects suitable for different demographic segments. The studies on the Sri Lankan housing market are mostly policy papers/reports, leaving a void in regard to studies pertaining to market strategies and competition. Countries like Singapore and Malaysia have well structured strategies resulting in a vibrant housing market available to all this research will focus on drawing parallels on this subject. (Jones Lang LaSalle, Research Report). The California State has used Porters Five Forces Model to understand the industrys attractiveness and competitiveness. The main trend seems to be the increasing rivalry among firms and the consolidation of capital in the industry (William, Mack, 2005). The author intends to draw parallels to the Sri Lankan context. The literature on gaining competitive advantage at business unit level has been growing over the years and the author has attempted to relate academic theory and the tools and concepts of Porters Five Competitive Forces and the Generic Strategies to finding a winning market strategy for the housing industry in Sri Lanka. Although in the international arena the above models have been used extensively in research on housing industry, no such work exists on Sri Lanka. 2.3 Michael Porters Five Forces Model The Five Competitive Forces and the Generic Strategies model was developed by Michael E. Porter in his book ‘Competitive Strategy: Techniques for Analyzing Industries and Competitors in 1980. Since then it has become an important tool for analyzing an organizations structure and strategic processes. Porters models are based on the need for a corporate strategy to meet the opportunities and threats in the organizations external environment. Competitive strategy should be based on an understanding of industry structures and the way they change (Porter, 1980). The ultimate aim of a competitive strategy is to enable a business to defend against competitive forces or in the alternative influence such forces in its favour. The key is to go below the surface and analyse the resources of each competitor. Analysis of such underlying forces will show the critical strength of firms and clarify areas that yield greater profits and highlight areas that show promise of either opportunities or threats (Porter, 1980). As explained in Figure 3, Porter has identified five competitive forces that shape every industry and market, which determine the intensity of competition and the profitability and attractiveness of an industry (Porter, Michael. E, 1979: 137- 145). The author will use the model to deal with the issues below to develop a winning market strategy for the housing business in Sri Lanka. (i) The need to evaluate the suppliers to understand bargaining power and supplier/seller collaboration. (ii) The need to study the pressures of buyers bargaining power and buyer/seller collaboration. (iii) The need to consider the threat of new entrants and the possibilities of new players entering the market. (iv) The awareness of the threat of substitutes and attention to attempts by outsiders to win buyers over to their respective products. (v) Investigating the competitiveness within the industry to keep abreast of market position, increased sales and market share, to have a competitive edge over rivals. A classic example of competitive rivalry is the battle between Coca Cola and Pepsi (Draft, 1988: 251). To understand the strengths and weakness of the model each of these industry forces must be evaluated. 2.3.1 Bargaining Power of Suppliers Supplier bargaining power is likely to be high when the market is dominated by a few large suppliers, when there are no substitutes for their product, the suppliers and customers are fragmented and customer bargaining power is low and switching costs from one supplier to another are high (Porter, 1980). The supplier integrating forward to obtain higher prices and margins is a possibility. This threat is especially high when, the buying industry has a higher profitability than the supplying industry, forward integration provides economies of scale for the supplier, the buying industry hinders the supplying industry in their development, for example, reluctance to accept new releases of products and the buying industry has low barriers of entry. In such situations, the buying industry often experiences high pressure on margins from their suppliers. The relationship to powerful suppliers can potentially reduce strategic options for the organization. 2.3.2 Bargaining Power of Customers Similarly, the bargaining power of customers determines how much customers can impose pressure on margins and volumes. Customers bargaining power is likely to be high when they buy large volumes and there is a concentration of buyers, the supplying industry comprises a large number of small operators, the supplying industry operates with high fixed costs, the product is undifferentiated and can be replaced by substitutes, switching to an alternative product is relatively simple and is not costly, customers have low margins and are price sensitive, customers could produce the product themselves, the product is not of strategic importance to the customer, the customer knows about production costs and the possibility of the customer integrating backwards. 2.3.3 Threat of New Entrants When the competition in an industry is high it is easier for other companies to enter the industry. In such situations, new entrants could change major determinants of the market environment (e.g. market shares, prices, customer loyalty) at any time. There is always a latent pressure for reaction and adjustment for existing players. The threat of new entrants will depend on the extent to which there are barriers to entry. These are typically economies of scale, high initial investments and fixed costs. Cost advantages of existing players are usually due to the experience curve effects of operation with fully depreciated assets, brand loyalty of customers, protected intellectual property like patents, licenses etc., scarcity of important resources, e.g. qualified expert staff, access to raw materials controlled by existing players, distribution channels are controlled by existing players existing players have close customer relations, e.g. from long-term service contracts and the high switching costs for customers, legislation and government action. 2.3.4 Threat of Substitutes Threats from substitutes exists if there are alternative products with lower prices and better performance parameters which can potentially attract a significant proportion of the market, thus reducing potential sales volume for existing players. This category also relates to complementary products. Similar to the threat of new entrants, the threat of substitutes is determined by factors like brand loyalty of customers, close customer relationships, switching costs for customers, the relative price for performance of substitutes and the current trends. 2.3.5 Competitive Rivalry between Existing Players This force describes the intensity of competition between existing players in an industry. High competitive pressure, results in pressure on prices, margins and hence on profitability of every single player. Competition between existing players is likely to be high when, there are many players of about the same size with similar strategies, there is not much differentiation between players and their products resulting in high price competition, market growth rate of a player is possible only at the expense of a competitor and the barriers for exit are high. 2.4 Five Forces Analysis The Five Forces Analysis can provide valuable information for three aspects of corporate planning described below. 2.4.1 Statistic Analysis The Five Forces Analysis enables determining the attractiveness of an industry. It provides insights on profitability. Thus, it supports decisions about entry to or exit from an industry or a market segment. Moreover, the model can be used to compare the impact of competitive forces on ones own organization against that on competitors. Competitors may have different options to react to changes in competitive forces from their different resources and competencies. This may influence the structure of the whole industry. 2.4.2 Dynamical Analysis In combination with a PEST Analysis, which reveals drivers for change in an industry, Five Forces Analysis can reveal insights into the potential future attractiveness of the industry. Expected political, economical, socio-demographical and technological changes can influence the five competitive forces and thus have impact on industry structures. 2.4.3 Analysis of Options With the knowledge about intensity and power of competitive forces, organizations can develop options to influence them in a way that improves their own competitiveness. The result could be a new strategic direction, for example, a new positioning and differentiation for competitive products and strategic partnerships. Thus, the model allows a systematic and structured analysis of market structure and competitive situation and can be applied to particular companies, market segments, industries or regions. 2.4.4 Influence of Five Forces After the analysis of current and potential future state of the five competitive forces, managers can search for options to influence these forces in their organizations interest. Although industry-specific business models will limit options, ones own strategy can change the impact of competitive forces on the organization. The objective is to reduce the power of competitive forces. 2.5 Michael Porters Generic Strategies Model According to Michael Porter a companys strengths ultimately fall into one of two headings; cost advantage and differentiation. Applying these strengths in a broad or narrow scope can result in effective cost leadership, differentiation and focus (Porter Michael. E, 1980: 35-40). Each of these strategies runs its own risk. In reference to a low cost strategy, other companies too may lower their costs to be competitive. In the case of differentiation too, competitors may change customer profiles to latch onto the market segment. With regard to the focus strategy, competitors may try to make changes to the target segment to attract a greater market. (Thompson Arthur. A., Strickland A. J., Gamble John. E. and Jain Arun. K., 2009: 115 138). In this study the focus group is the middle income market segment. Competitive strategies focus on ways in which a company can achieve the most advantageous position (Pearson, 1999). Therefore high profitability can be achieved through achieving the lowest costs or the highest prices vis-Ã  -vis the competition, called ‘cost leadership by Porter and ‘differentiation, is the way in which companies can earn a price premium (Porter, 1980). As explained in Figure 4, there are three generic strategies available to companies to attain competitive advantage, namely overall cost leadership, differentiation and focus (Porter, 1980). These three strategies require a total commitment and organizational arrangements which could be diluted if there is more than one primary target. The basic generic strategy is to outperform competitions, which means a firm could earn high returns. Success of one of the generic strategies will help a firm obtain a just return (Porter, 1980). Companies can achieve competitive advantage essentially by differentiating their products and services from those of competitors and through low costs. Firms can target their products by a broad target, thereby covering most of the marketplace, or they can focus on a narrow target in the market (Lynch, 2003). Each competitive strategy will be evaluated to understand the strengths and weakness of the model. 2.5.1 Cost Leadership Companies using cost leadership strategy attempt to become the lowest-cost producers in an industry. Lowest costs would earn the highest profits where competing products are essentially undifferentiated and sell at a standard market price. In certain instances, the company can charge an average price while following low cost leadership strategy and reinvest the extra profits into the business. Companies like Ryan Air and Easy Jet and ASDA and Tesco adopt a cost leadership strategy (Lynch, 2003). 2.5.2 Differentiation Porter (1980) argues that companies employing differentiation strategy will incur extra costs . These costs may include high advertising to promote a differentiated brand image for the product, which is both a cost and an investment. McDonalds for example is differentiated by its very brand name and brand images of Big Mac and Ronald McDonald. While differentiation has many advantages some problematic areas include the difficulty in ascertaining whether the extra costs entailed in differentiation can actually be recovered from the customer through premium pricing. Moreover, successful differentiation strategy of a firm may attract competitors to enter the companys market segment and copy the differentiated product (Lynch, 2003). 2.5.3 Focus Porter initially presented focus as one of the three generic strategies, but later identified focus as a moderator of the two strategies. Companies employ this strategy by focusing on areas with the least amount of competition (Pearson, 1999). This strategy can be applied by focusing on a specific niche in the market and offering specialised products, hence the name ‘niche strategy (Lynch, 2003). This strategy provides companies the possibility to charge a premium price for superior quality, known as ‘differentiation focus or by offering a low price product to a small and specialised group of buyers, termed ‘cost focus. Ferrari and Rolls-Royce are classic examples of niche players. Both have a niche of premium products available at a premium price. 2.6 Analysis of Porters Generic Strategies Firms can choose from one of the three generic strategies to compete in the marketplace, regardless of the context of industry (Porter, 1980). Kay (1993) and Miller (1992) have cited empirical examples of successful companies like Toyota and Benetton, which have adopted more than one generic strategy. Both these companies used generic strategies of differentiation and low cost simultaneously, which led to their success. Companies that are successful at making use of the cost leadership strategy are often positioned to capitalize on a value proposition which emerges from their low cost emphasis, like the classic success story of Tesco in the UK. Interestingly, an emphasis on cost leadership in this sense can act as a form of differentiation. Successful implementation of a cost leadership strategy would benefit from process engineering skills, products designed for ease of manufacture, access to inexpensive capital, tight cost control and incentives based largely on quantitative targets. McDonalds for example, achieves low costs through standardised products and centralised buying of supplies, etc. Unlike cost leadership strategy, there is empirical evidence to support the differentiation strategy (Pearson, 1999). Hall (1980) investigated sixty-four American companies and the findings of the study revealed that companies following a differentiation strategy had superior performance compared to those companies that were not following the same. The focal point for the company pursuing a differentiation strategy should be the customer, and not per se the competitors. Note that for a differentiation strategy to be successful, the point of differentiation perceived by customers as valuable should coincide with the distinctive competence of the company (Pearson, 1999). For example, Orange succeeded by providing the most basic requirements for mobile phone communication, bettered the competition and created a differentiation in the minds of the consumers. (Barwise et al, 2004). Notably, only a number of small and medium sized companies use the niche strategy (Lynch, 2003). Application of Porters generic strategies to the Portuguese Crystal Glass, the Mould and Porcelain showed that organizations following differentiation strategy tended to achieve higher performance relative to organizations which did not show the presence of a non-classical differentiation based on a time based tendency. (Strategic Orientations of Manufacturing Organisations in the European Market: Evidence from Portugal; Available Online). Notably, most successful firms exhibit one or more forms of differentiation, along with forms that are directly associated with cost leadership and focus orientation. This is one of the grey areas in the analysis of generic strategies that reality can be different and more subtle than the stark contrasts that are highlighted by Porter (1980). Kim et al (2004) have argued that Porters generic strategies of differentiation and cost leadership will be applicable to e-business firms in a broad sense, while the focus/niche strategy will not be as viable for e-business firms, compared to their traditional counterparts. 2.7 Exploration of information for Porters Generic Strategies Analysis The information necessary for conducting the generic strategies analysis can be found in company and competitor websites. Annual reports of companies can be used to analyse the relationships between costs and profitability and how a particular strategy is affecting the firms overall performance. Marketing communication tools used by the company and competitors may also reflect the generic strategies. Advertisements can be a useful source of information to analyse the strategy that is being pursued by the company, and how that differs from that of the competition. Journal articles, trade publications and reputable magazine articles are useful sources of information to analyse industry trends, customer preferences in a given market and the strategies that are being pursued by the companies in a particular industry. 2.8 Relationship between Porters Generic Strategies Analysis and the Five Forces Model The three generic strategies suggested by Porter (1980, 1985) can be effectively utilised to defend against competition in the business environment. The industry forces take the form of competitive rivalry, barriers to entry, threat of substitutes, buyer power and supplier power, explained below (Lynch, 2003). 2.8.1 Competitive Rivalry If the competition in the industry is fierce, the advantage of a cost leadership strategy would be that competitiveness in price. However, cost leadership strategy is not the most desirable, as competitors may put intense price pressures, forcing all players to reduce their prices drastically. Differentiation may be a better strategy as loyal customers may stay with the company. It would also be hard for competitors to cope with specialised needs of customers who are part of a niche segment in the market. 2.8.2 Barriers to Entry A company employing any one of the three strategies would find it easy to create barriers for new entrants. The learning curve of cost leaders in an industry, along with the economies of scale through experience curve effects, would often make it impossible for potential entrants to compete on price, as the more mature firm can further lower prices without comprising its profitability. High customer loyalty towards a companys brands, which is true for the differentiation strategy, can play a vital role in discouraging potential entrants. Customers often choose to be with a niche player because of a certain core competence that only that particular player is providing in the market. Also companies that make use of the focus strategy over time often develop a thorough understanding of their customers needs, which is a very difficult task for a potential entrant. In this way, focus can act as an entry barrier too. 2.8.3 Threat of substitutes It is the differentiation and differentiation-focused strategies that effectively reduce the threat of substitutes. Threat of substitutes is reduced in case of the differentiation strategy due to customer loyalty to the unique aspects of a particular product or service, which no substitute product can offer in the customers mind. In case of the later strategy, the very nature of the companys products and core competence of the firm reduce the threat of substitutes. 2.8.4 Buyer Power The power of buyers changes in accordance with the three generic strategies. Cost leaders have the unique ability to offer lower price options to large and powerful buyers. However, the scenario differs for companies making use of the differentiation and focus strategies. Buyers in case of these two strategies would have less power as there are few alternatives available to them. 2.8.5 Supplier Power Suppliers can exercise their power primarily in case of differentiation and focus/niche strategies. Companies making use of these strategies have the ability to pass the price increases of suppliers to their final customers, through the premium pricing strategy. 2.9 Strengths and Weaknesses of Porters Models Porters model of Five Competitive Forces allows a systematic and structured analysis of market structure and competitive situation. The model can be applied to particular companies, market segments, industries or regions. The strength of competitive forces determines the inflow of investment and drives the returns to free market levels. The five competitive forces such as entry, threat of substitutes, bargaining power of buyers, bargaining power of suppliers and intense competition among rivals reflecting that competition in industry goes beyond established players. Porter identified that these five competitive forces shapes every industry and every market. These forces determine the intensity of competition and hence the profitability and attractiveness of an industry. The objective of corporate strategy should be to modify these competitive forces in a way that improves the position of the organization. Porters model supports analysis of the driving forces in an industry. Based on the information derived from the Five Forces Analysis, management can decide how to influence or to exploit particular characteristics of their industry. Therefore, it is necessary to determine the scope of the market to be analyzed in a first step. Following, all relevant forces for this market are identified and analyzed. Hence, it is not necessary to analyze all elements of all competitive forces with the same depth. The Five Forces Model is based on microeconomics. It takes into account supply and demand, complementary products and substitutes, the relationship between volume of production and cost of production and market structures like monopoly, oligopoly or perfect competition. After the analysis of current and potential future state of the five competitive forces, managers can search for options to influence these forces in their organizations interest. Although industry-specific business models will limit options, the own strategy can change the impact of competitive forces on the organization. The objective is to reduce the power of competitive forces. The model is based on the idea of competition. It assumes that companies try to achieve competitive advantages over other players in the markets as well as over suppliers or customers. With this focus, it dos not really take into consideration strategies like strategic alliances, electronic linking of information systems of all companies along a value chain, virtual enterprise-networks or others. As for the limitations part, nothing in this world is in itself PERFECT, so is this five forces model. Sometimes, it is better if some new player enter the market. It gives way to fresh thinking and catches the attention of the customers, in addition to benefits like infrastructure development. Again, it is better if a decent number of substitutes are valuable in the market, as it makes one think how to better his product and win the hearts of the clients. In reference to the generic strategies it became clear over time that in reality there were some shades of grey in the distinction between differentiation and cost, compared to the black and white that is projected in theory. It is very difficult for most companies to completely ignore cost, no matter how different their product offering is. Similarly, most companies will not admit that their product is essentially the same as that of others (Macmillan et al, 2000). It is important for analysts to bear in mind that Porters generic strategies should be considered as a part of a broader strategic analysis. The generic strategies only provide a good starting point for exploring the concepts of cost leadership and differentiation and may not provide relevant strategic routes in the case of fast growing markets (Lynch, 2003). It is important to conduct other analyses like PESTEL analysis to analyse how the generic strategy being employed by a company should change in accordance with external factors. Other useful analyses would include SWOT analysis of the key success factors etc.

Macbeth - Noble Soldier to Bloody Tyrant Essay -- Macbeth essays

Macbeth - Noble Soldier to Bloody Tyrant    The purpose of tragedy is to arouse in the audience emotions of fear or pity, and to produce a catharsis-a relieving cleansing-of these emotions. Macbeth is the most horrific of Shakespeare's tragedies because the protagonist commits such bloodthirsty acts. Apart from on the battlefield, however, this brutality is not evident when we first meet the hero.   General Macbeth is a man of military and political importance, the heroic Thane of Glamis and potential heir to the throne of Scotland.   By the end of the play he is an entirely different person than he was in the beginning. In the beginning he is a heroic, decent, and noble soldier, but by the end of the play he is a bloody tyrant.    A key ingredient in such a genre is the tragic flaw, an idea that goes back to an influential work of literary criticism called Poetics, by Aristotle.   Aristotle said that the tragic hero should be someone of rank or importance with a tragic flaw, who suffers a "reversal of intention" that eventually leads to his or her death.  Ã‚  Ã‚   Aristotle also said that in the process, the tragic hero should experience recognition of this failure and that by the end of the work our moral sense should be satisfied that right or justice has prevailed.  Ã‚  Ã‚   The tragic flaw is some weakness in character that is responsible for action or inaction on the part of the tragic hero and leads to the reversal of the hero's original intention.   Therefore, the reversal of intention is the turning point in the tragic hero's life when he or she experiences something that causes the tide to turn and previous success to turn to failure.   [The fourth soliloquy prepares us for the r eversal, and the climactic... ...ere is room for debate about his courage and nobility, and whether or not we feel any pity or compassion for him. Our feelings at the end constitute the expected catharsis.    Works Cited and Consulted: Greenblatt, Stephen. "Introduction to Macbeth." The Norton Shakespeare. New York: Norton, 1997. 2555-63. Hawkins, Michael. "History, politics, and Macbeth." Focus on Macbeth. Ed. John Russell Brown. London: Routledge, 1982. 155-88. Kermode, Frank. "Introduction to Macbeth." The Riverside Shakespeare. Boston: Houghton, 1974. 1307-11. Shakespeare, William.   Tragedy of Macbeth . Ed. Barbara Mowat and Paul  Ã‚   Warstine. New York: Washington Press, 1992.  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Notes: 1 Roman Polanski changes the ending in his film, when he has Donalbain visit the witches to determine his own fate as the brother of the new King Malcolm.   

Extended commentary of ‘The Convergence of the Twain’ by Thomas Hardy Essay

On the Title: Hardy uses two interesting words: ‘convergence’ and ‘twain’. A convergence is a meeting of two paths, or entities – in this case, a collision! ‘Twain’ is an archaic word for ‘two’, i.e.; both the ‘Titanic’ and the iceberg. Such a title immediately positions the reader to the direction in which the poem will go. Hardy is not, as many elegiac poems of the day were, preparing to mourn the loss of the ship and the lives upon it but rather proceeding to examine the philosophical nature of the collision; perhaps it was fated? The other current use of â€Å"twain† was in the pseudonym â€Å"Mark Twain,† made famous by the publication – initially in England – of â€Å"The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn† in 1886. Clems adopted the nom de plume to suggest â€Å"uncomfortable waters† or â€Å"tight navigation,† since two fathoms (â€Å"twain,† the sounding of a Mississippi deck-hand measuring the depth beneath the keel) would be dangerous for a steamboat. Background Information: The ocean liner ‘RMS Titanic’ famously sank, at two o’clock in the morning, upon the 15th April 1912. The disaster claimed 1,502 lives. Hardy was asked to write a poem to be read at a charity concert to raise funds in aid of the tragedy disaster fund. It was first published as part of the souvenir program for that event. Overall Structure: Hardy writes eleven regular triplet stanzas, with an AAA rhyme scheme throughout. The use of triplets allows for a more thorough exploration of ideas in each stanza; unified by the use of the rhyme scheme. Perhaps he also does this to create the effect of inevitability, for the rhymed words form their own â€Å"paths coincident† that lead to a preset conclusion – the reader knows, that is, with which sound each stanza will end after he or she has only read the first line of that stanza. However, that knowledge only appears are having read the first few stanzas or so, echoing the idea that knowledge of those coincident paths of which the poem speaks is not always immediately discernible. Themes: The Vanity of Man, The Relationship between Man and Nature, Fate, Classical Entities. Difficult Language Notes: â€Å"The Immanent Will† – a force of fate. â€Å"Salamandrine† – associated with the salamander (a mythical creature) The poem runs in straight sets but I wish to divide in two for ease of analysis. ‘Part I’ exists from Stanzas I to VI, whilst ‘Part II’ takes the form of Stanzas VII to XII. Part I Notes: First Stanza Notes: Hardy introduces his poem in medias res – the ship has been sunk and lies silently at the bottom of the ocean. He creates a calm effect over his poem through the consonance of the ‘s’ sounds: â€Å"In a solitude of the sea Deep from human vanity, And the Pride of Life that planned her, stilly couches she.† Particular elements of diction are worthy of note: * â€Å"Deep from human vanity† – this line points to the emerging theme of man’s failed vanity, in creating such a grand object to rule over the natural world, only to have Nature smite it. The phrase â€Å"Pride of Life† accentuates this principle. Note how Hardy uses capital letters to make otherwise simple abstract nouns definitive. Although this is pre-emptive, I will now examine the theme of vaingloriousness (and point out notable pieces of evidence throughout the remainder of the poem) which Hardy presents. He uses irony to evoke the ridiculousness of man’s plans. In stanzas I through to V, he juxtaposes images of the ships opulence, such as its â€Å"mirrors meant / To glass the opulent† and the ship’s â€Å"gilded gear† with images of the â€Å"cold currents†, â€Å"sea-worms† and â€Å"moon-eyed fishes† that now flow, crawl and swim through those former interiors. This creates a tangible image of the human vanity referred to in this first stanza; what people design for greatness ultimately ends up in a place of abasement. * â€Å"Stilly† is a highly unusual adverb. Hardy uses it to create a sense of ‘peace’. This is furthered by â€Å"solitude† and â€Å"couches†. ‘Couches’ suggests restfulness, or an equanimity. S.L.S considers an image of a ‘death bed’ upon the sea floor. Second Stanza Notes: Hardy focuses upon images of death and change in this stanza: â€Å"Steel chambers, late the pyres Of her salamandrine fires Cold currents third, and turn to tidal rhythmic lyres.† The furnaces of the ship, which contained the â€Å"salamandrine fires† of her engines (a form of LIFE), now have â€Å"Cold currents thrid† (note the a contrast in temperature – and consequently, a contrast in living state) running through them. ‘Thrid’ itself is another reference to the title, as an archaic word for ‘two’. Where there was once heat and life driving the engines of the ship, there is now coldness and death. A further juxtaposition within this second stanza is the use of the word â€Å"pyre†, as it connotes funerals and death, while the use of â€Å"salamandrine† insinuates a certain tenacity for life (as salamanders were said to live through fires) that could be associated with the ‘Unsinkable Ship’ idea – there was a theory prior to the sinking, now tragically ironic, that the Titanic was unable to sink. Yet, for all of the tragic (or formerly energetic, given the nature of fire) nature of the ship, Hardy once again returns to ideas of peace and harmony. â€Å"Rhythmic tidal lyres† are reminiscent of the classical entities – such as Apollo’s lyre and his place in Arcadia – and consequently calming images. The distinct iambic meter in this phrase aids the calming lilt of the lines. Hardy presents the Titanic’s corpse in a peaceful light, however chilling and panicked her death. Third and Fourth Stanza Notes: I have above described the idea of vanity. I will pick out key phrases from these stanzas which support this idea – their key point is to achieve the above: * â€Å"mirrors meant to glass the opulent† CONTRASTED TO â€Å"grotesque, slimed, dumb, indifferent† sea worms. Note the cruelty and emphasis on â€Å"indifferent†. * â€Å"Jewels in joy designed† CONTRASTED TO â€Å"lie lightless, all their sparkles bleared and black and blind† Note the use of polysyndeton. * â€Å"gilded gear†. Note alliteration. Fifth and Sixth Stanzas: Thus far Hardy has thoroughly examined the idea of vanity and the sunken ship itself. At stanza VI, Hardy changes his focus to the process by which the ship sank, in reference to Hardy’s ‘question’ formulated in stanza V. V â€Å"Dim moon-eyed fishes near Gaze at the gilded gear And query: ‘What does this vaingloriousness down here? VI Well: while was fashioning This creature of cleaving wing, The Immanent Will that stirs and urges everything† It is obvious that Hardy engineers the explanation of the collision as a response to the â€Å"fishes’† question – although one would initially expect the final line of stanza V to be rhetorical. Before diverging upon the analysis of Hardy’s response, note some key elements of this stanza: * â€Å"moon-eyed† (white and dull) contrasts with the shiny, golden nature of the â€Å"gilded†. This accentuates the differences between the metallic (man-made) ship and the natural world. Also note the alliteration used in this line. Question why? * In an final assault on the vanitas vanitatum, observe that Hardy utilises anthropomorphisation to allow even the fish to question Man’s will in creating such ‘vaingloriousness’ – a Natural force (perhaps a personification of Nature itself?) labels the ship a vanity. What consequence does this have? This query, although appearing rhetorical, is answered by Hardy. Denoted by the use of ‘Well’, he switches to a colloquial register – this again adds to the sense of a Volta at stanza VI. Also note the sudden introduction of prominent enjambment at the end of the poem. The sense of stanza VI rolls into the VIIth, in direct opposition to the previous use of ‘poetic closure’ to end all previous stanzas – Hardy normally uses a form of punctuation. Now it’s gone. Apart from being a ‘change’ in its innate self, the enjambment aids in increasing the pace of the poem. This is highly significant. Seeing as, from this point forth, Hardy creates a ‘convergence of the twain’ within the poem itself – i.e.: he brings the two entities together (I will later explore this process in detail) from obscurity to the point of their collision – then increasing the pace at which the two entities move (which is obviously determined by the pace of the poem) must bring them together faster. This adds to the sense of movement, of fast movement and of dramatic effect. Well done, Mr. Hardy. Note some language details: â€Å"Creature of cleaving wing† is a very interesting phrase. â€Å"Cleaving† has multiple meanings, all of which are appropriate to Hardy’s imagery. Primarily, he may be imagining the ship as it ‘cleaves’ through the water, as all good ships should do. Remember, in its day the Titanic was the fastest liner afloat. â€Å"The cleaving wing† may therefore be the iron bow of the boat. Notice how Hardy is utilising additional anthropomorphisation, in referring to the ship as both a â€Å"creature† and one with â€Å"wing[s]†. The iceberg, however, remains inanimate. I doubt that there are any really deliberate poetic techniques to be synthesized from this but perhaps Hardy encourages a larger empathic response from the animate ship than from the inanimate iceberg? However, we must also acknowledge the metallic â€Å"knife-like† associations with ‘cleaving’ – like ‘cleaver’. This has a highly inanimate connotation. [Another weak point, acknowledged.] There also exists an archaic definition in the verb ‘to cleave’ – as in a Biblical usage – meaning ‘to join in matrimony’. This is of enormous interest. Hardy later plays a great deal upon the idea of the twain being marital (and even sexual) mates. Throughout the poem he refers to them with terms connotating a â€Å"confirmed relationship†. We may be â€Å"reading into† the phrase a little too deeply but it is a comment worthy of note. Perhaps Hardy is using the archaic definition of the verb to further advance his marital imagery? He is certainly no stranger to using such odd vocabulary; observe â€Å"The Darkling Thrush†! Finally, I wish to examine ‘The Immanent Will’. â€Å"Immanent† is not an archaic spelling of â€Å"imminent† – do not get confused in terms of these different words! â€Å"The Immanent Will† is somewhat comparable, in terms of a philosophical idea, to the Christian concept of the â€Å"Holy Spirit† or â€Å"Holy Ghost†. It is a spiritual, but existent, entity within every object which determines its fate or actions. Christianity has branches – notably in Catholicism – which believe in a pre-determined plan, of God’s design. In other words, we are all on a plan set out by God. The Holy Spirit helps us to achieve what God wishes; it provides inner strength and resolve. Hardy did not have an easy relationship with religion; born a Christian, he went through multiple tumultuous periods of atheistic belief. That’s probably why he hasn’t gone and just written; â€Å"God, or some deified entity, has allowed and planned for the demise of this here ship. And that’s why the iceberg, which could have been anywhere in a 3,000 mile radius of the vast Atlantic Ocean, just so happened to strike the ship. Deal with it.† So, instead, he has substituted a strictly non-religious term to his idea of Fate. Indeed, he later refers to the Classical ‘Fate’ entities to again replace any otherwise religious terminology. Remember also that Hardy is not aiming to criticise Christianity in a poem intended to raise money for the victims’ families. Thus, clear religious controversy was not a good idea. Stanzas VIII and IX Notes: â€Å"And as the smart ship grew In stature, grace and hue, In shadowy silent distance grew the iceberg too. Alien they seemed to be: No mortal eye could see The intimate welding of the later history,† Again, Hardy invites further comparison through the use of juxtaposition; he now places the two entities in a relative time scale. The use of the word ‘as’ creates this effect, as it brings almost a simile-esque comparative sense to the stanzas. We must focus on the idea of the twain ‘growing’ – as that is the image which Hardy evokes – and the way in which both are joint in the use of the same verb. The obvious mental image is one of a familial relationship; they grow simultaneously but are fatally unaware of each other. Indeed, the distance between them is made explicitly clear and further emphasized by the alliteration used with â€Å"shadowy† and â€Å"silent†. Observe, in the phrase â€Å"In stature, grace and hue†, Hardy returns to the original theme of the ship’s grandeur. He appears, in this occurrence, to be rather more commending (or perhaps simply more mournful) of the ship and its purpose. Stanza IX further dwells upon the notion of fate. Indeed, Hardy utilises some more imagery worthy of note, full of oxymorons. â€Å"The intimate welding of the later history† It takes little to see that this further advances the ideas of both the twain’s ‘marital intimacy’, of the metal-related imagery associated with the ship, but also, in the final few words, the idea of Fate. If one can know, in the present, the details of the future’s past – in other words, the near future – then surely one is saying in an oddly convoluted way that a certain action is destined to soon take place? It’s an oxymoronic (â€Å"later history† is oxymoronic in my book!) way of saying the same as before; the twain are destined to collide. Stanzas X and XI Notes: â€Å"Or sign that they were bent By paths coincident On being anon twin halves of one august event, Till the Spinner of the Years Said ‘Now!’ And each one hears, And consummation comes, and jars two hemispheres. Very little needs to be said about the action in these stanza. The Twain collide, bringing together the long wait in both metaphorical and poetic terms. Hardy’s precise choice of words and imagery is somewhat more interesting, however. For example: * â€Å"Paths coincident† does not point to a coincidence, as one might initially assume, but rather to a â€Å"co-incident† (i.e. â€Å"together†) act. The Twain are, on reflection, on a course which emulates two graphical lines, in the way that they bisect. Does this then also reflect a sense of Fated entity? Graphical lines do not change, thus their ‘collision’ is determined and sealed. * â€Å"Twin halves of one august event† reminds the reader of the action and precise existence of the collision. In the end, the act was a very physical, not philosophical one. Hardy acknowledges this, but attempts to draw out the unified nature of the Twain, in the intrinsic act of their collision. Note that the usual use of â€Å"august† to mean â€Å"awe inspiring or admiration; majestic† is not intended by Hardy here in a positive way. He merely wishes to express wonder at the grand, if tragic, culmination of two great forces. And yes, it is rather melodramatic. * Hardy at lasts then returns to his Fated theme with the phrase â€Å"The Spinner of the Years†. Reminiscent of the Classical Greek Moirai or the Roman Parcae (three old hags who would run, spin and cut the threads of life), Hardy refers to the middle of the three – the Spinner. Spinning a mortal thread has always occupied a position in mythology. Hardy utilises it to draw out a sense of fate. Fate itself conducts the affair, it seems, given that the Twain act upon the word â€Å"Now!† to converge. * Emerson Brown, scholar of medieval literature, pointed out that the poem is 33 lines long, whilst line 33 echoes the 33-year-old Christ’s last words: â€Å"consummatum est.† In any case, when â€Å"consummation comes†, Thomas Hardy sends 1,500 souls to the bottom with an obscene pun. To â€Å"come† has borne a sexual connotation since the 17th century, at least, while consummation traditionally means the fulfilment of the marriage contract by intercourse. The image of the ‘Titanic’ and the iceberg copulating is hard to take seriously – therefore we must question whether Hardy truly intends it. Nevertheless, it advances the idea of the twain existing in a marital bond. Note the sudden use of speech, in the present tense. Very dramatic. Brings the Twain together in Time for the last time!

Ernest Hemingway Fifty Grand Essay Essay

This short story is one of the stories in Men Without Women, written by Ernest Hemingway, an American writer. I started to love every Hemingway’s short story since I reached this semester especially this short story, which is tells about boxing that is one of my favorite sport. I think Hemingway was a man’s man. He wrote everything covered both things that happened in World War I and World War II, he had deep-sea stories, he liked to tell about himself, every journey he had done and using I which is refered to his main character of his stories that could make people who never read his stories would think that I, refered to Hemingway itself. He removes himself from the role of narrator. The stories are almost wholly composed of dialogue. One must engage him or herself in the narratives and ignite his or her imagination to understand the emotional core of each of these stories. Hemingway expects us to. Back to the topic, I am going to give a short review first about this story before I work on my paper. This short story tells us about an aging-boxing champ named Jack Brennan who did his last fight against Jim Walcott, a fresh-young boxer. Jack trained by Jerry Doyle, the narrator itself, and also the only closest friend that Jack had. Jack suffered a great insomnia, how he missed his wife and decided this fight against Jim Walcott will be the last fight for him. Jack knew he can’t stand against Walcott because he is too old to beat a young boxer like Walcott. But the only problem which took my attention starts from here when Jack’s manager, John and a couple of friends with him (we finally knew that both strangers are Morgan and Steinfelt), visited him at Hogan’s health ranch but Jack wasn’t there. He was in his room. Then Jerry, John and his friends went to Jack’s room. They knocked the door but there was not an answer from Jack. So John turned the handle and went in to the room with others. After they met each other and some dialogue between them, John asked Jerry to Jerry to find Hogan because they want to see him but Jack forbade him to go. But Jerry did not listen to Jack. When Jerry left the room, I think there is  important part which is missing. If we go further of this short story we can find a moment when Jack got drunk and told Jerry that he bet $50,000 against himself and tried to lose intentionally against Walcott. Yes, he tried to lose intentionally in his last fight. It was so irrational. I think we, as readers, have missed the important part of this short or probably the narrator deliberately omit that part, the reason why Jack changed his mind. I do not think that he was too old to keep his bet as the only reason why. I am sure there must be something when Jerry left the Jack’s room between Jack, John, Jack’s manager and his friends in there. John and his friends must have said something to Jack and made him change his mind even bet against himself. I try to find out what happened out there on internet. I try to find the missing puzzle in this short story but I get nothing. If we think that Jack was too old to beat Walcott, a fresh-young boxer, why he didn’t decide not to fight from beginning? Why he told Jerry to put a bet on Walcott after he met John and his friends? I used to think that because he never slept at night, how he missed his wife so much and he was getting tired with all of these things then he told his problems to John and his friends that he would make an easy last fight. But no, that is irrational reason if you read the whole story. You will find that Jack stays until final round. That is not make a sense if he would intentionally to lose the game. And why he put so many punches on Walcott and made him bleeding bad and suffered all the time if Jack wanted to lose the game? The fight itself went very tight. Jack controlled the beginning of the game. Then he became slower since the seventh round. Walcott took over the whole game while Jack tried to block every punch from Walcott. Sounds strange enough to me why did he keep the game on? He could say give up, though. I think Jack pride at stake here. He must decide what is more important, lose his bet or his belt. Maybe that is the reason why he survived so far. Altough we know, in the end Jack made a foul to Walcott and is disqualified. From this quote (which was Jack said): â€Å"I think I can last. I don’t want this bohunk to stop me.† He must be thinking about something just to finish this fight before the game ends. No matter how. I think Jack thought so. And take a look at this quote: â€Å"He (means Jack) certainly did used to make the fellows he fought hate boxing. That was why he hated Richie Lewis so. He never got Richie’s goat. Richie Lewis always had about three new dirty things Jack could not do. Jack was as safe as a church all the time he was in there, as long as he was strong.† I will underlined this statement: â€Å"Richie Lewis always had about three new dirty things Jack could not do. That was why he hated him so much.† And if we go back to the game between Jack and Walcott. I think he had prepared well for this â€Å"dirty thing† before the gong of the last round rang. He had prepared to do something bad to finish this fight because he told Jerry and John that he knew he could not stand any longer in this match. And perhaps he had made a decision or had knew the good answer about what he had to choose between his belt or his bet. So that was why he made a foul to Walcott and is disqualified. That is the only thing I though t why Jack keep fighting instead quit before the fight begins. Perhaps he wanted to show a great last fight to the world before he retired. But if he thought so, the foul that he made to Walcott was made people want to slap on his face and turned him as mediocre boxer because of it. So what was he thought? This is so interesting. This thing will be another problem to solve. If the narrator deliberately omit that part or did not want to tell what makes Jack bet against himself, the most understanding thing is because the narrator wants to show us that this short story that he narrate based on what he saw, heard and has happened is the truth. He did not need to tell us the things that he did not know. He would not tell lies. So at that stage when the narrator left the Jack’s room then tried to find where Hogan was, he really did not what happened in there. And we, as readers, did not for sure what happened in there because he did not tell us. And it makes a lot of interpretation. What did they do? Perhaps John, Jack’s manager, or his friends came to Hogan’s ranch to persuade Jack to lose intentionally and offered him some money then Jack accepted because he knew from the first even if he tries his best he still can not beat Walcott, a younger and strong boxer. If yes, that was why he made a foul to Walcott. The only question why did he keep the game on? Why did he stand until final round? Why he did not he do that dirty thing from the start? What if Steinfelt and Morgan conspire with John bribe to Jack to fix the fight? I think that is the characteristic of Ernest Hemingway’s short stories. That is why he likes  to put I as the first person perspective in some of his stories to engage us as readers to feel what the narrator feels, to see what the narrator sees, makes us like we were there. I think Fifty Grand is narrated by what might be called a highly colloquialized narrator. The use of a highly colloquialized narrator in Fifty Grand has several effects on the story. For one thing, as the reader grows accustomed to Jerry Doyle’s manner of speaking, he became more fully involved than he might be otherwise in the world in which Jerry lives. Jerry Doyle seems knowledgeable about prize fighting not only because he works as a trainer, but because his way of speaking causes him to sound the way a man who knows about boxing ought to sound. The choice of Jerry Doyle as the witness narrator for Fifty Grand is useful in ways unrelated to the trainer’s manner of speaking. For one thing, Jerry’s narrating allows the reader to be a man on the inside. Much of the effect of this story results from the fact that the reader receives a ‘behind-the-scenes view of the stinginess, the domestication, and the overall unferociousness of a man the public believes is a brutal and hardened fighter. The importance of the reader’s proximity to the action of Fifty Grand is particularly evident on the night of the big fight. When Jack Brennan climbs up to get in the ring, Jerry describes how Walcott comes over and pushes the rope down for Jack to go through : â€Å"So you’re going to be one of these popular champions,† Jack says to him. â€Å"Take your goddam hand off my shoulder.† â€Å"Be yourself,† Walcott says. This is all great for the crowd. How gentlemanly the boys are before the fight. How they wish each other luck. The reader’s enjoyment of this scene results in large measure from his knowledge that he has information about what is going on which the rest of the spectators at the fight do not have. The moment of Jack Brennan’s realization that he must lose the fight works much the same way. What appears to the audience a vicious low blow that was a foul is understood by Jerry, and thus by the reader, as the desperate action of a threatened bread-winner. Although Jerry Doyle’s manner of speaking and his special  involvement in what is going on cause the reader to be interested in him as a character, Jack Brennan consistently remains the story’s central concern. The way in which Jerry is developed, in fact, helps to maintain the story’s focus on the Irish boxer. For one thing, Jerry Doyle, as the narrator, did not tell the reader much about his own thoughts and emotions. Generally, his reactions to the things that he sees are simple and obvious and in no way attract the reader’s attention. Jerry’s personal comments nearly always support rather than modify the picture of events which his narration sets up. For example, when Jerry says that Jack is sore, he does so just after the reader has seen Jack’s anger for himself. The reader’s primary focus on Jack Brennan is also maintained by the story’s creation of a special kind of presentness, a presentness which results from what can be thought of as a double disappearance of the story’s narrator. In the first place, Jerry Doyle is invisible as a narrator in the act of telling a story. Nothing in the story suggests that Jerry is reminiscing about events from a point in time after Jack’s fight with Walcott. On the contrary, the events of the story seem to be related without the intervention of a narrating present. A second kind of disappearance results from the fact that during the acting present when Jerry is in conversation with other characters, he frequently ceases to be distinguishable even as the overall observer of events. In the following conversation, for example, it is impossible for the reader to tell that one of the speakers is narrating the story: â€Å"You know,† he (refered to Jack) says, â€Å"you ain’t got any idea how I miss the wife.† â€Å"Sure.†Ã‚  Ã¢â‚¬Å"You ain’t got any idea. You can’t have an idea what it’s like† â€Å"It ought to be better out in the country than in the town.† â€Å"With me now,† Jack said, â€Å"it don’t make any difference where I am. You can’t have any idea what it’s like.† â€Å"Have another drink.† â€Å"Am I getting soused? Do I talk funny?† â€Å"You’re coming on all right.† â€Å"You can’t have any idea what it’s like. They ain’t anybody can have an idea what it’s like.† The use of the present tense at the beginning of the exchange does suggest that an involved narrator is telling the story, but the present tense is used so frequently during conversations in Fifty Grand that it ceases to be particularly noticeable. During longer exchanges the narrator identifies his words with â€Å"I said,† but he rarely elaborates on this identification and as a result, the â€Å"I† fails to actract attention any more than â€Å"he† would. When the narrator â€Å"disappears† from large portions of a story or a novel, as is the case in Fifty Grand, the overall result is the creation of a narrative which is both involved and dramatic. In general, those effects which are achieved by means of narrative perspective result from the types of inter-relationships which are created between narrators and the reader and between narrators and the events he narrate. The relationship between the narrator of story a story and the situations he presents to us, the readers, can be of a great many kinds. In Fifty Grand, Hemingway renders the narrator, which is Jerry Doyle, almost invisible, enabling us, the reader, to look through the narrating present and focus our attention directly on the events of the narrator’s story. The position of the narrator itself is primarily important as frame for the presentation of character other than himself.

Spanish Verbs Oír and Escuchar

Spanish Verbs Oà ­r and Escuchar The differences between oà ­r and escuchar are essentially the same as the differences between to hear and to listen to. While there is some overlap in how the verbs are used, oà ­r generally refers to the simple act of hearing, and escuchar involves the listeners response to what is heard. Using Or Some typical uses of oà ­r as referring to the sensory act of hearing: No puedo oà ­r a nadie con mi nuevo telà ©fono. (I cant hear anybody with my brand-new telephone.)Cuando era pequeà ±a oà ­ la expresià ³n muchas veces. (When I was little I heard the expression often.) ¿Dà ³nde has estado encerrado si no has oà ­do estas canciones? (Where have you been penned up if you havent heard these songs?)Finalmente, oiremos el Concierto para piano no. 21 en do mayor. (Finally, we will hear the Concerto for Piano No. 21 in C Major.) It is common to use oà ­r when referring to activities such as listening to the radio or attending a concert, although escuchar can also be used: Yo oà ­a la radio antes de irme a la cama. (I was listening to the radio before going to bed.)Compramos boletos y fuimos a oà ­r un concierto de jazz. (We bought tickets and went to a jazz concert.) The imperative forms oye, oiga, oà ­d (rare in Latin America), and oigan are sometimes used to call attention to what youre saying. Translations vary with the context. Pues oye  ¿que quieres que te diga? (Well then, what do you want me to tell you?)Oiga, creo no es una buena idea. (Hey, I dont think its a good idea.) Using Escuchar Like listen, escuchar carries the idea of paying attention or of heeding advice. Note that escuchar is not typically followed by a preposition in the way that listen is nearly always followed by to. The exception is that when listening to a person the personal a is used. Escucharon el ruido de un avià ³n. (They heard the noise of an airplane.)Mis padres escuchaban mucho a Gipsy Kings. (My parents listened a lot to the Gipsy Kings.)Debes escuchar a tus clientes con ms atencià ³n. (You should listen more attentively to your customers.)Todos escuchamos el consejo que le da a Miguel. (We all listened to the advice that he gave to Miguel.)Te recomiendo que te escuches la entrevista completa. (I recommend that you listen to the complete interview.)Escuchà © a mi profesora de yoga y entendà ­ lo que me querà ­a decir. (I listened to my yoga professor and understood what she wanted to tell me.) The reflexive form, escuchar, is often used to indicate that something was or is heard. La voz del hombre se escuchaba ms fuerte y clara. (The voice of the man was heard loud and clear.)Ahora Spotify te dir quà © mà ºsica se escucha en otros paà ­ses. (Now Spotify will tell you what music is heard in other countries.) There are a few situations in which either oà ­r or escuchar can be used with little difference in meaning. Primarily, either can be used when hearing or listening to requests: Oyà ³/escuchà ³ las sà ºplicas de su amigo. (She heard/listened to the pleas of her friend.) Related Words Nouns related to oà ­r include el oà ­do, the sense of hearing, and la oà ­da, the act of hearing. Oà ­ble is an adjective meaning audible. In some regions, un escucho is a secret conveyed by a whisper, while escuchà ³n is an adjective referring to someone who is overly curious about what other people are saying. Conjugation The conjugation of oà ­r is highly irregular in spelling and pronunciation. Escuchar is conjugated regularly, following the pattern of hablar and other regular -ar verbs. Etymology Oà ­r comes from the Latin audire and is related to words such as oyez (a word used in courts to gain attention), audio and audience. It may be distantly related to hear, possibly coming from same Indo-European root. Escuchar comes from the Latin verb auscultare. It is related to the English verb to auscultate, a medical term for using a stethoscope to listen to the internal sounds of the body.

Recommended Reads for High School Freshmen

Recommended Reads for High School Freshmen These are a sampling of the titles that often appear on high-school reading lists for 9th grade, as they encourage independent reading and are written at a level appropriate for a high school freshman. Literature programs vary by high school, but the books on this list are important introductions to literature. Perhaps most important, these works can help students develop stronger reading and analysis skills that theyll be required to call on throughout their secondary education, as well as in college courses. Recommended Works for a 9th Grade Reading List All Quiet on the Western Front - Erich Maria RemarqueAnimal Farm - George OrwellBlack Like Me - John Howard GriffinBury My Heart At Wounded Knee - Dee BrownThe Good Earth  - Pearl S. BuckGreat Expectations - Charles DickensGreat Tales and Poems of Edgar Allan Poe - Edgar Allan PoeThe Heart Is a Lonely Hunter - Carson McCullersHound of the Baskervilles - Arthur Conan DoyleI Know Why the Caged Bird Sings - Maya AngelouIliad - HomerJane Eyre - Charlotte Brontà «The Little Prince - Antoine de Saint-Exupà ©ryLittle Women -  Louisa May AlcottLord of the Flies - William GoldingNine Stories - J. D. SalingerOdyssey - HomerOf Mice and Men - John SteinbeckThe Old Man and the Sea - Ernest HemingwayA Separate Peace - John KnowlesSlaughterhouse-Five - Kurt VonnegutA Tree Grows in Brooklyn - Betty SmithTo Kill A Mockingbird - Harper LeeThe Yearling - Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings

Business Measurement Model Strategy and Innovation

According to Moynihan & Pandley (2010), performance management is the process of aligning systems, employees and organizational resources to the organization’s strategic goals. It includes activities ensuring consistent achievement of targets in an efficient and effective manner.   Operations management, on the other hand, involves controlling the whole production process so as to control efficiency in the organization regarding the provision of goods and services, (Subramanian & Ramanathan, 2012). Performance management in the context of operations management, therefore, focuses on the performance of employees, departments, entire organization and process of creating goods and services within the firm. It is used to refer to tools, activities, processes and programs that are applied by the pany in the management of teams and departmental or individual performance. Cost leadership: A pany may have a target to reduce the costs of its product so as to make them more affordable to the customers, (Teece, 2010). This is cost leadership. It is a strategic objective that can be achieved through offering price cuts and customized products to enable low and middle-i e families to afford them. Differentiation objective: This is an objective that can be used by firms to make their goods and services unique, (Rathaermel, 2015). A pany may make exclusive brands which are different from those of its rivals. This may make the firm more petitive as pared to other enterprises as it will be able to develop a market niche Focus: A pany with this objective can concentrate on customer satisfaction through provision of high-quality products at high prices, or cost reduction by adopting cost leadership, (Teece, 2010). A firm which utilizes cost leadership may have an objective of focusing on low and middle-i e families, so as to gain a petitive edge. Operational excellence goal: A pany may develop an objective of automating the production process so as to improve efficiency in its activities. This may enable it to develop cost leadership, (Guest, 2011). When the organization can provide goods at affordable prices, then it may achieve customer loyalty for its products. Product leadership: This is an objective that enables a firm to provide superior products to the market. It can be a plished through automation of the production process and utilizing the services of experienced personnel, (Gurman, 2011). This objective can also be used to achieve product differentiation. Importance of performance management to ABC garments Ltd concerning; Regular feedback enhances efficient munication in the organization. Performance management assists in determining the weaknesses and strengths of the enterprise, (Guest, 2011). This could be monitored regarding the machines available and the type of workforce in the firm. It also allows for a forum to exchange expertise and views in the business, (Guest, 2011).   Primarily, it gives the management of ABC a better understanding of the firm- whether the machines should be serviced, whether to employ more skilled staff or to adopt a particular technology so as to improve the operating system. When the subordinates and the managers have an explicit knowledge of the particular operations they should carry out, any plexities in the workplace can quickly be eliminated. Performance management may, therefore, enable ABC to hold each employee accountable for their actions. This will empower and clarify the responsibilities of each worker in the operating system, (Kamruzzaman, 2011). Also, performance management plans involve clear, precise, understandable and practical improvement in productivity and operations. Through conducting this activity, the management of ABC Ltd can identify key areas of weaknesses so as to adjust in them. Some operations may be cash traps to the firm, (Pertusa-Ortega, Molina-Azorin &Claver-Cortes, 2010). Such transactions should be retrenched so as to reduce unprofitable expenditures. The pany is also able to evaluate the key capabilities and weaknesses through evaluating its employees’ performance and the available machines, (Ullah, 2015). Cost reduction can also be achieved through risk management. The manager can identify possible risks that the business is exposed to and adjust to them in time before incurring losses. Performance management will enable the management of ABC to identify the potential of every employee. This makes the management to stage the employee in appropriate positions that they can work inappropriately. It will encourage efficiency in the organization by reducing wastages in terms of time and resources, (Titacchi, Tonelli & Cagnazzo, 2010). Minimization of costs of operation will also be achieved, making the firm to be more profitable. As explained by Gurman (2011), conducting performance appraisal enables a pany to utilize the physical resources available in the environment optimally. These may include raw materials, technology, and gaps in the market.   Through conducting performance management, ABC Ltd can identify the training needs of its employees and train them appropriately so that they can obtain the relevant skills to use the recent technology in the market to promote its products. These may include social media marketing and e merce.   Through performance measurement, the management is in a position to identify the effectiveness of devices and determine maintenance and replacement times. The management of ABC is also able to monitor the skills of its employees so as to ensure that the machines are being handled efficiently. Performance management is also an essential basis for determining training needs in the enterprise, (Guest, 2011).Whenever the ABC detects mishandling of machines, then it may be able to train the employees on the proper ways of handling the tools so as to increase productivity. Gruman, J. A., & Saks, A. M. (2011). Performance Management and Employee Engagement. Human Resource Management Review, 21(2), 123-136.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Guest, D. E. (2011). Human Resource Management and Performance: Still Searching for Some Answers. Human Resource Management Journal, 21(1), 3-13.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Kamruzzaman, M. (2011). ABC Knit Dyeing & Finishing Mills Ltd (Falcon Group) (Doctoral Dissertation, Daffodil International University).  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Moynihan, D. P., & Pandey, S. K. (2010). The Big Question for Performance Management: Why Do Managers Use Performance Information? Journal of Public Administration Research & Theory, 20(4), 849-866. Pertusa-Ortega, E. M., Molina-Azorà ­n, J. F., & Claver-Cortà ©s, E. (2010). petitive Strategy, Structure and Firm Performance: A parison of the Resource-Based View and the Contingency Approach. Management Decision, 48(8), 1282-1303.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Rothaermel, F. T. (2015). Strategic Management. New York, NY: Mcgraw-Hill.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Subramanian, N., & Ramanathan, R. (2012). A Review of Applications of Analytic HierarchyProcess in Operations Management. International Journal of Production Economics, 138(2), 215-241. Taticchi, P., Tonelli, F., & Cagnazzo, L. (2010). Performance Measurement and Management: A Literature Review and a Research Agenda. Measuring Business Excellence, 14(1), 4-18. Teece, D. J. (2010). Business Models, Business Strategy and Innovation. Long Range Planning, 43(2), 172-194.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Ullah, A. (2015).Garment Industry in Bangladesh: An Era of Globalization and Neo- Liberalization. Middle-East Journal of Business.

Change Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Change Management - Essay Example The association between organisations and its surroundings is a vital aspect of academic viewpoints of organisational change. Organisational change is dispensed with growing number of organisational learning ideas where organisations are neither prey of usual selection nor exclusively dependent variable of decisive environmental forces. Organisations are considered as active learning associations which can be established on the basis of objectives and aims of their creators and members (Burnes, 2004). Hereby, the objective of the paper is to recognise the various aspects of learning along with its core principles and tenets. Furthermore, the paper aims at understanding the benefits and challenges faced by an established company by introducing learning. Core Tenets of Learning Any kind of organisation such as commercial organisations, educational institutions, non-profit organisations and community groups can be regarded as learning organisations. Learning organisation begins with cor e tenets that believe learning is valuable, incessant and most efficient aspect of organisations where knowledge is shared and employees are provided with equal opportunity to learn (Agarwal, n.d.). The nature of learning and its method that takes place within a company is defined by the organisational culture and groups. There are numerous ways in which organisations introduce and increase learning. The core tenets involved in a learning process can be apparently identified with reference to the following theories. Behavioural Theory of Learning In order to make organisations learn there is need for employees involved with it, to learn as well. Employees in an organisation learn as they perform according to expectations. The behaviourist theory describes the visible behaviours created by learner’s reaction to stimuli. Reaction to stimuli can be strengthened with positive or negative responses to conditions of desired behaviours (Hughes, 2006). The behaviourist theory present s learning as a multifaceted procedure of reactions to numerous types of different stimuli. According to behaviourism, knowing is providing the accurate reaction when visible to a specific stimulus. The behavioural theory is not related with how or why knowledge can be gained; rather it is related with providing appropriate response. Behavioural theory depicts learning as attainment of new behaviour (Skinner, n.d.). For instance, a significant example of organisation using behavioural method of learning is Continental Airlines. It had used behavioural learning method in effective manner in order to decrease the absenteeism and raise the efficiency of employees in the workforce. After the tragic leave of Frank Lorenzo (chairman), the self-esteem and obligation of employees in Continental Airlines was observed to be reduced significantly. During that period, the company learnt the requirement for changing the behaviour of employees for rebuilding their confidence and providing appropr iate service to the passengers. As a result, Continental Airlines applied periodical bonuses to the employees on the basis of accomplishment of target with respect to number of complaints, scheduled departure and attendance of employees. This strategy resulted in remarkable changes in activities and supported to the improvement of Continental Airlines’ performance (Korea University Open Course Ware, n.d.). Constructivist Theory of Learning Constructivist theory is the other learning theory which describes how individuals can gain knowledge and learn accordingly. This theory recommends that people construct knowledge and sense through experiences. This theory is based on trustworthy and practical circumstances. According to this theory, the accountability of

New Jersey Historic Site Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

New Jersey Historic Site Paper - Essay Example This was the beginning of colonization history of New Jersey. Eventually, British took control over the colonies. After 1664 the land was officially called New Jersey after the Isle of Jersey in the English Channel. During its history New Jersey had to fight for its freedom. In 1776 New Jersey proclaimed its independency and joined the side of colonies in the Revolutionary War, with more battles fought in New Jersey than in any other state, with the turning point of the war being battles in Trenton and Princeton. In 1787 the state of New Jersey accepted the Constitution of United States and signed the Bill of Rights. From then on The State of New Jersey developed rapidly, with many cities becoming manufacturing centers. The emerging of Virginian railroad and the construction of the West Virginia Turnpike became important events for the city, which transformed it into center of commerce. These are only snap shots of the history of New Jersey. There are a lot of noteworthy stories and characters. There are also a lot of â€Å"prove† of this history – landscapes, battlefields, homes, etc. Many places that are dating back to Revolutionary War were recreated. There are National parks, historical villages, lighthouses and more. There are also historical homes of famous people such as Thomas Edison, Albert Einstein, who was among first professors appointed to work in the Institute for Advanced Study, which was founded in Princeton in 1930. This institute became the first residential institute for scholars and research personnel. Now, let us localize our research of major historical sites of New Jersey to the city of Princeton. The first permanent settlers came to the place that was to become the Princeton Township in the late 17th century. It started with the â€Å"house of accommodation† or tavern, built on the highway by Henry Greenland. Then, six Quaker’s families built a community along Stony Brook, thus, the settlement got to be known by the same name. The community started to grow and in 1724 it got its name Princeton – in honor of the Prince William of Orange and Nassau. In 1756 a new building was erected on the Nassau Hall – College of New Jersey. This added prominence to Princeton. There are mansions that were built around what was a village at the time, one of them being Morven. Since Princeton is located halfway between New York and Philadelphia, it was a usual place to stop for the night for the travelers. Thus, many taverns grew. Later, the rail road was built and made the commerce easier. Later, in 1776 some states ratified Declaration of Independence. Once the states were independent, they adopted constitutions and waged war against England to be permanently freed from its control. The state of New Jersey took part in Revolutionary War and the battle of Princeton was waged here and became a turning point in the war. This also made Princeton famous. After the revolution Princeton was a capi tal of the United States, albeit briefly. Here in Princeton, while awaiting ratification of the Peace Treaty with England, in Nassau Hall Continental Congress had its meetings. General Washington also resided nearby. After the Civil War many new buildings were built. The College has been expanding to reach the number of twenty-seven buildings total within the next fifty years. As the city grow, nearby mansions and farms became a part of it. Nowadays Princeton is among the most populated cities of America. To name several historical sites

Bobby and the Role of Women in Burning Chrome by William Gibson Essay

Bobby and the Role of Women in Burning Chrome by William Gibson - Essay Example The Burning Chrome by Gibson has featured women in the entire piece. Bobby, a character in the Burning Chrome uses women according to his desires and plans. He has been described as having a new woman every few days. Bobby uses women in a specific manner. Bobby uses women for his personal gain. He uses them as assets when he realizes that they offer certain opportunities for his own growth. As stated in the work, â€Å"†¦Bobby read his future in women; his girls were omens, changes in the weather, and he'd sit all night in the Gentleman Loser waiting for the season to lay a new face down in front of him like a card†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Gibson 189). Bobby was on between the two hackers who act as the main characters in the story. Bobby Quine is an expert dealing with software issues while Automatic Jack deals with hardware issues. Also important in the story is Rikki who is a girl that Bobby has become infatuated with and wants to use her to get what he wants. Gibson establishes a dis tinctive insignia by writing about the matrix simulator and techno-centaur disguising Jack Automatic. He also writes about Rikki Wildside and her Zeiss Ikon eyes, boutique and Simstim deck. Gibson does not leave out an aspect of world war III, an event he puts as a past event but featuring a puppet house where women worked as prostitutes for three-hour shifts (Gibson 190). Bobby Quine and Jack Automatic exhibit emotion and vestigial morality as they hack into Chromes computer system. They steal from the child-faced witch who has cold gray eyes and destroy her power base to an extent that she cannot use the power anymore (Cavallaro 90). They also destroy her by completely by sapping off her ability to defend herself against her enemies. Bobby is a schemer and a strategist. Bobby together with jack use their computer literacy prowess to exploit women and take advantage of their powers and strengths. Bobby and Jack use Rikki Wildside because they have realized an opportunity of exploit ation in her. Rikki is a prostitute who offers her services at the puppet house to get money so that she could buy a fashionable pair of new eyes. She also intends to make enough money so that she can fly to Hollywood and become a Simstim star. Jack bought a virus-program from Russia from Finn, who also bought it from someone. It is from this scenario that we learn that the person killed the original thief who had stolen the program from the owner. Bobby hacks into Chrome's computer system using that program (Cavallaro 92). He then makes use of the communication web to interfere and change the flow the communication web. Meanwhile jack encourages Bobby to hack into Chrome’s computer. As stated in the story, â€Å"†¦but Bobby was already there, leaning forward to drive the Russian program into its slot with the heel of his hand. He did it with the tight grace of a kid slamming change into an arcade game, sure of winning and ready to pull down a string of free games. A si lver tide of phosphenes boiled across my field of vision as the matrix began to unfold in my head, a 3-D chessboard, infinite and perfectly transparent. The Russian program seemed to lurch as we entered the grid†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Gibson 195) Jack helps Bobby in his schemes taking advantage of the trust and love of women to him, for his gain. Jack betrays his friend Bobby by having an affair with Rikki who is in a love relationship with Bobby. Rikki also betrays her Bobby and Jack by working as a prostitute and

Industrial Revolution in the 19th century Essay

Industrial Revolution in the 19th century - Essay Example The Victorian Era is one of the most popular eras in the history of Europe, particularly with respect to women. The Victoria Era had very well-established norms and practices for the women and all were expected to comply with those standards in order to live a respectable life. Women were not allowed to work. They were expected to get married at a very young age and take care of the family from that point on until death. The Victorian Era assigned man the responsibility of earning the bread while women were supposed to nurture the children. Women’s representation in social matters and in politics was negligible and their rights were subdued by men. Women’s movement in Europe commenced with the emergence of machinery in the days of the industrial revolution that surfaced in the 19th century. Replacement of the manual work with machine work brought the long-cultivated argument of the physical superiority of men over women to a halt. Although industrial revolution in the 1 9th century was beneficial for both Europe and America in terms of the technological advancement, yet one of the most important outcomes was the end it brought to the subjugation of rights of women by men in the Europe. In order to help their husbands run the finances, women had to enter the work force and assume roles that they had conventionally been denied in the Victorian Era. Industrial revolution brought an altogether revolution in the societal roles and perceptions of women. Women formed a new working group that acquired special attention of the society’s controlling power. Owing to the lack of pre-defined expectations of the society with the women as workers, the controlling power resolved to exploit the women. Women were taken extensive labor from and were compensated lesser as compared to the men. Here, then, is the "curse" of our factory-system; as improvements in machinery have gone on, the "avarice of masters" has prompted many to exact more labour from their han ds than they were fitted by nature to perform, and those who have wished for the hours of labour to be less for all ages than the legislature would even yet sanction, have had no alternative but to conform more or less to the prevailing practice, or abandon the trade altogether. (Fielden). Not only were the women subjected to injustice in the society, but they also had troubles managing their homes like they had been doing for centuries before. Nevertheless, with whatever they earned, they gained significant financial independence. Their work led them to personal grooming. The increasingly confident women were able to break free of the chains they had been tied with for centuries. Men saw the increased freedom of the women as a threat to their dominating role in the society, yet they could not overlook the benefits of the same. This led the notion of â€Å"equal but different† to surface, which men used to define women in the period of the industrial revolution. During the ag e of industrial revolution, Europe transited from the agricultural to the urbanized state which was the preliminary form of the Europe we know today. The industrial revolution caused a drastic transformation of the farm villages into the urban areas. One of the most obvious

Universal Virtues Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Universal Virtues - Coursework Example Remarkably, individuals fail to practice and put into consideration the universal virtues. Consequently, individuals undergo a tremendous transformation in their lives which hinders them from actually realizing their abilities and potentials to embrace any of the virtues. Leaders are meant to act as a role models to the people and have the responsibility of practicing all the six universal virtues to ensure efficiency in their ruling (Chiles, 2007). Unfortunately, they fail to adopt all of them but only achieve to practice just a few. In the decision making process, a leader can make a wise and just decision but lacks the courage to support his decision. According to Chiles (2007), wisdom, courage and humanity are the most essential virtues. They form the basis of an individual’s life which enables him to make wise decisions and to be brave when dealing with others. The six universal virtues are the keys to a successful life that ensures togetherness in a community or in an

Appendicitis and its Symptoms Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Appendicitis and its Symptoms - Essay Example Xuix, a Chinese citizen has been admitted to hospital with having pain in the abdomen. Currently, he is in Australia and his English understanding is limited. Consequently, he is not able to interpret the problem efficiently as well as other useful information needed for further treatment. Furthermore, it is ascertained that he has been suffering from appendicitis and he need to undergo emergency surgery. Xuix is also unable to communicate his medical history appropriately to the medical practitioners. Eventually, the problem is that the medical practitioners are unable to communicate him the risks associated with the surgery and obtain valid consent from him in order to proceed with the surgery. Consequently, an online interpreter’s help was sought, however due to certain issues related to funding the person could not be consulted. In contrast, a cleaning staff who could communicate at a moderate capacity in Chinese as well as in English was employed as an interpreter. Unfort unately, the staff did not have proper knowledge of the medical terminologies. The basic information relating to his surgery was communicated to him and with his consent; he was taken to operation theatre for emergency surgery. ... Department of Health and Human Services, 2008). Slowly the swelling of appendix increases and the pain gets shifted into the lower abdomen. Appendicitis is an emergency situation which might create a medical scenario that requires the appendix to be removed urgently as soon as possible to alleviate the pain felt by the patient. If it is left untreated or swelling continues to persist, appendix may get ruptured or burst. Once the appendix is burst, it may lead to peritonitis and other serious abdominal problems that can be fatal unless it is treated quickly and efficiently (WebMD, LLC, 2012). The diagnosis of appendicitis is conducted by patients’ history and examinations. In modern medical field, appendix can be removed in two ways, the traditional open surgery or the laparoscopic surgery. The surgery procedure nearly takes an hour (National Center for Biotechnology Information, 2011). However, there are certain complications relating to surgery. Complications may result from anaesthesia, breathing problem, or side effects caused by surgery (National Center for Biotechnology Information, 2011). The possible complications of the surgery may comprise excessive bleeding, or any kind of infection in incision part within the body. Notably, infection may tend to be mild or severe. Contextually, in mild infections, patient may have to suffer from mild tenderness and redness in the area of incision. At the same time, moderate infections may require patient to take antibiotics to prevent any complications while severe infections may cause patient to undergo another surgery along with antibiotics. The complications possibility is rare in terms of laparoscopic procedures. However, the surgery may also have long-term effects which may result in diagnosis of other diseases

Universal Virtues Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Universal Virtues - Coursework Example Remarkably, individuals fail to practice and put into consideration the universal virtues. Consequently, individuals undergo a tremendous transformation in their lives which hinders them from actually realizing their abilities and potentials to embrace any of the virtues. Leaders are meant to act as a role models to the people and have the responsibility of practicing all the six universal virtues to ensure efficiency in their ruling (Chiles, 2007). Unfortunately, they fail to adopt all of them but only achieve to practice just a few. In the decision making process, a leader can make a wise and just decision but lacks the courage to support his decision. According to Chiles (2007), wisdom, courage and humanity are the most essential virtues. They form the basis of an individual’s life which enables him to make wise decisions and to be brave when dealing with others. The six universal virtues are the keys to a successful life that ensures togetherness in a community or in an

John Locke Research Paper Essay Example for Free

John Locke Research Paper Essay Throughout history there have been many philosophers that impacted the world. Philosophers such as John Locke have shaped todays society in a number of ways. John Locke was extremely influential and has had some of the most lasting impacts on the ideas still to this day. John Locke has inspired a many of people throughout his lifetime and shaped the way for philosophers and great minds of the generations to come. John Locke was an English philosopher, born on August 29 1632, in Somerset, England. He was born into a Protestant family (Faiella 24). Locke’s mother died when he was an infant and he was raised by his father John, who is said to have had an influence on Lockes views (24). In 1652, Locke attended Christ Church College to study medicine (25). However, Locke found the ideals and theories of modern philosophers of his time more interesting than the material he studied while at Christ Church, which led to Locke never pursuing a career as a doctor (25). Lord Anthony Ashley Cooper sought out Lockes assistance to treat a liver cyst; Cooper soon became impressed with Locke and appointed Locke to be his advisor (28). Locke then joined the Royal. Society where he met individuals with whom he discussed mortality and religion, which resulted in the creation of An Essay Concerning Human Understanding (Powell, Jim Locke: Natural Right to Life, Liberty, and Property). Locke wanted to learn more and pursued a position in which he could examine toleration, education and trade, leading to Locke and Anthony Ashley Cooper working closely together (Powell, Jim John Locke: Natural Right to Life, Liberty, and Property). Anthony Cooper was the 1st Earl of Shaftesbury, and it was in the Shaftesbury household where some of Lockes most influential ideas came alive. Cooper assisted in forming Lockes ideas; it was within the Shaftesbury household during 1671 that the meeting, which resulted in the making of An Essay Concerning Human Understanding, took place (25). Lockes friendship with Cooper became complicated, causing Locke to move to Holland where he became connected with the English Rebels (Faiella 29). Eventually, Locke was placed on a list of 85 traitors who were wanted by the English government as a result of his works (29). During 1683, Locke used an alias, Dr. Van Der Linden, to sign letters being sent to his peers (Powell, Jim John Locke Natural Right to Life, Liberty and Property). Locke was offered a pardon offered by William Penn but, Locke wouldn’t accept the pardon because he believed he didn’t do anything to deserve his criminal status and he stood by his beliefs (Faiella 30). In 1686 while in Holland Locke was meeting with peers to discuss philosophical ideals and plot to overthrow King James II. Locke was later removed from the list of traitors (31). After the Glorious Revolution Locke returned to England and helped draft the Toleration Act of 1689 (31). Locke believed in many things as a philosopher, one of Lockes most known ideals was Natural Law. Locke strongly believed in Natural Law, which stated men have natural rights which cannot be given to you by rulers (Stephens, George M. John Locke: His American and Carolinian Legacy). Locke also believed in the Social Contract, which stated that, a persons moral or political obligations should rely on an agreement in order to form a society (John Locke: His American Carolinian Legacy). Locke strongly believed that people lived in a certain State of Nature before there was society. Locke stated that the State of Nature was when people lived with no judge, no laws and no punishment for their crimes (Treatises on Government). Locke thought that laws of society existed for the common good of the population as a whole (Treatises on Government). People could not break the social contract because it would result in chaos (Treatises on Government). Locke also believed that the government existed to assist the needs of the people and if it should not fulfill its job to the people, people had the right to overthrow the government (John Locke: Natural Right to Life, Liberty and Property). Locke believed that without a majority rule the social contract wouldn’t work (John Locke: His American and Carolinian Legacy). Therefore, Locke wrote An Essay Concerning Human Understanding which was based on his beliefs and experiences (Powell, Jim. John Locke: Natural Right to Life, Liberty and Property). Locke also wrote a Letter Concerning Toleration, which discussed an idea of religious toleration for everyone except Atheists and Catholics. (John Locke: Natural Right to Life, Liberty and Property). Locke believed education is for liberty and that people learn by examples and that this is the way society should learn (John Locke: Natural Right to Life, Liberty and Property). Locke also fought for freedom of the press and opposed the renewal of the act for regulation of printing (John Locke: Natural Right to Life, Liberty and Property). Clearly, John Locke had a very big impact throughout the world, even though during his time he was viewed as a criminal for some of his ideas. Locke provoked revolutions in Europe, Latin America, and in Asia (Powell, Jim. John Locke: Natural Right to Life, Liberty and Property). John Locke influenced the Declaration of the Rights of Men, in 1789 while in France, which recognized property rights. (Stephens, George M. John Locke: His American and Carolinian Legacy). Locke also influenced Montesquieus beliefs regarding the separation of powers (Powell, Jim. John Locke: Natural Right to Life, Liberty and Property). Also one of Lockes greatest influences was his assistance in inspiring the French Revolution (John Locke: Natural Right to Life, Liberty and Property). John Locke influenced the United States in a number of different ways. For example, Locke’s Second Treatise Concerning Civil Government inspired the American Revolution (Powell, Jim. John Locke: Natural Right to Life, Liberty, and Property). Also, In the Declaration of Independence it states how King George violated his contract with the colonist, which was influenced by Lockes ideas (Stephens, George M. John Locke: His American and Carolinian Legacy). The Fifth Amendment of the United States Constitution discusses property rights, which was also inspired by John Locke (John Locke: His American and Carolinian Legacy). In the constitution the legislative branch has more power than a single official but has no veto power, another ideal of Locke (John Locke: His American and Carolinian Legacy). In conclusion, John Locke inspired many people throughout history with his strong beliefs and ideals. Locke was criminalized and wanted for his beliefs. Locke’s ideas have influenced not only England or the United States of America, but have resulted in a change in the world. Locke inspired people of his time, and implemented lasting ideas and changes in the government, and Locke inspired other philosophers. Philosophers similar to Locke have used Lockes ideas as a foundation to further mold the world we live in, and shape societies. John Locke has made a lasting impact and his ideas will continue to impact the world. Works Cited Faiella, Graham. †John Locke: His Life† John Locke:Champion of Modern Democracy New York: Rosen Group, 2005. 24-31. Print. Locke, John. Two Treatises on Government. 1690. Print. Powell,Jim â€Å"Jim Locke: Natural Right to Life, Liberty, and Property† The Freeman. Foundation for Economic Education. 1 August 1996. Web. 6 October 2014. Stephens, George M. â€Å"John Locke: His American and Carolinian legacy. † John Locke Foundation. N. D. Web. 2 October 2014.