Cipd Hr

CIPD INTERMEDIATE CERTIFICATE – HR MANAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT HAMMERSMITH CAMPUS Modules Credit Rating Wednesday Evenings (18. 00 – 21. 00) Sat/Sun Weekends (09. 30 – 16. 30) Wednesday Evenings (18. 00 – 21. 00) Sat/Sun Weekends (09. 30 – 16. 30) 26/01/13 27/01/13 2012 BIC Business issues and the contexts of human resources 6 26/09/12 03/10/12 10/10/12 17/10/12 24/10/12 HALF TERM 13/11/12CIPDEvent 14/11/12 21/11/12 28/11/12 05/12/12 12/12/12 CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR 09/01/13 16/01/13 23/01/13 30/01/13 06/02/13 13/02/13 HALF TERM 27/02/13 06/03/13 13/03/13 Flexible Study Day (10am – 8pm) 20/03/13 27/03/13 EASTER BREAK 17/04/12 24/04/12 Flexible Study Day (10am – 8pm) 01/05/13 22/09/12 23/09/12 09/01/13 16/01/13 23/01/13 30/01/13 06/02/13 13/02/13 HALF TERM 27/02/13 06/03/13 13/03/13 20/03/13 27/03/13 EASTER BREAK 17/04/13 24/04/13 01/05/13 08/05/13 15/05/13 22/05/13 29/05/13 05/06/13 Flexible Study Day (10am – 8pm) 12/06/13 19/06/13 26/06/13 03/07/11 Flexible Study Day (10am – 8pm) 10/07/13 2013 20/10/12 23/02/13 Core Modules 5DPP Developing professional practice Using Information in Human Resources Managing and Coordinating the HR Function 4 5IHR 4 13/11/12 CIPD Event 24/11/12 23/03/13 5MHR 6 05/01/13 06/01/13 20/04/13 21/04/13 5ELW Modules Employment Law 6 02/02/13 03/02/13 25/05/13 26/05/13 5HRD Contemporary Developments in HRD 6 3/03/13 24/03/13 22/06/13 23/06/13 Award – 3 credits; Certificate – 32 credits; Diploma – 44 credits CIPD INTERMEDIATE DIPLOMA – HR MANAGEMENT HAMMERSMITH CAMPUS Modules Credit Rating Sat/Sun Weekends (09. 30 – 16. 30) Sat/Sun Weekends (09. 30 – 16. 30) 2012 HRM Options 5RTP 5IOP Resource and Talent Planning Improving Organisational Performance Employee Engagement 6 6 27/10/12 28/10/12 24/11/12 25/11/12 26/01/13 27/01/13 2013 04/05/13 05/05/13 08/06/13 09/06/13 06/07/13 07/07/13 5EEG 6 Diploma options – 12 credits required from options above CIPD INTERMEDIATE DIPLOMA – HR DEVELOPMENT HAMMERSMITH CAMPUS Modules Credit Rating Sat/Sun Weekends (09. 30 – 16. 0) Sat/Sun Weekends (09. 30 – 16. 30) 2012 5ODS Organisational Design: Implications for Human Resources Developing Coaching and Mentoring within Organisations Meeting Organisational Development Needs Organisational Development: Implications for Human Resources 27/10/12 3 2013 04/05/13 HRD Options 24/11/12 3 08/06/13 5DCM 25/01/13 3 06/07/13 5MDN 26/01/13 3 07/07/13 5ODV Diploma options – 12 credits required from options above CIPD INTERMEDIATE CERTIFICATE – HR MANAGEMENT & DEVELOPMENT SOUTHALL CAMPUS Modules Credit Rating Tuesday Evenings (18. 00 – 21. 00) Sat/Sun Weekends (09. 30 – 16. 30) Tuesday Evenings (18. 00 – 21. 00) Sat/Sun Weekends (09. 30 – 16. 30) 2012 BIC Business issues and the contexts of human resources 6 25/09/12 02/10/12 09/10/12 16/10/12 23/10/12 HALF TERM 06/11/12 13/11/12 CIPD Event 20/11/12 27/11/12 04/12/12 11/12/12 CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR 08/01/13 15/01/13 22/01/13 29/01/13 05/02/13 12/02/13 HALF TERM 26/02/13 05/03/13 12/03/13 Flexible Study Day (10am – 8pm) 19/03/13 26/03/13 EASTER BREAK 16/04/12 23/04/12 Flexible Study Day (10am – 8pm) 30/04/13 22/09/12 23/09/12 08/01/13 15/01/13 22/01/13 29/01/13 05/02/13 12/02/13 HALF TERM 26/02/13 05/03/13 12/03/13 19/03/13 26/03/13 EASTER BREAK 16/04/13 23/04/13 30/04/13 07/05/13 14/05/13 21/05/13 28/05/13 04/06/13 Flexible Study Day (10am – 8pm) 11/06/13 18/06/13 25/06/13 02/07/11 Flexible Study Day (10am – 8pm) 09/07/13 2013 26/01/13 27/01/13 5DPP Core Modules Developing professional practice Using Information in Human Resources Managing and Coordinating the HR Function 20/10/12 23/02/13 4 5IHR 4 13/11/12 CIPD Event 24/11/12 23/03/13 5MHR 6 05/01/13 06/01/13 20/04/13 21/04/13 5ELW Employment Law 6 02/02/13 03/02/13 25/05/13 26/05/13 Modules 5HRD Contemporary Developments in HRD 6 23/03/13 24/03/13 22/06/13 23/06/13 Award – 3 credits; Certificate – 32 credits; Diploma – 44 credits CIPD INTERMEDIATE DIPLOMA – HR MANAGEMENT SOUTHALL CAMPUS Modules Credit Rating Sat/Sun Weekends (09. 30 – 16. 30) Sat/Sun Weekends (09. 30 – 16. 30) 2012HRM Options 5RTP 5IOP Resource and Talent Planning Improving Organisational Performance Employee Engagement N/A 6 N/A 6 N/A 6 2013 04/05/13 05/05/13 08/06/13 09/06/13 06/07/13 07/07/13 5EEG Diploma options – 12 credits required from options above CIPD INTERMEDIATE DIPLOMA – HR DEVELOPMENT SOUTHALL CAMPUS Modules Credit Rating Sat/Sun Weekends (09. 30 – 16. 30) Sat/Sun Weekends (09. 30 – 16. 30) 2012 5ODS Organisational Design: Implications for Human Resources Developing Coaching and Mentoring within Organisations Meeting Organisational Development Needs Organisational Development: Implications for Human Resources N/A 3 2013 04/05/13 HRD Options N/A 3 08/06/13 5 DCM N/A 3 06/07/13 5MDN N/A 3 07/07/13 5ODV Diploma options – 12 credits required from options above

Money: Bank and Funds

â€Å"Money† is a fascinating object. The process of creating money and using money has always generated enthusiasm amongst mankind for over thousands of years. The main reasons for such enthusiasm are built around the dynamics of the above process. Even more fascinating is the fact, that this process is perhaps the only subject that is foxing both the pundits and the commoners alike. Such being the importance of money, any narration regarding the process shall always provide enough excitement. Keeping this in view, the role and importance of financial intermediaries is being featured for the benefit of readers. A glimpse of this coverage is provided in the following pages to lead them to a wider canvas. Financial Intermediaries Financial intermediaries play a vital role in building economies. World over, in different economies it is typical to find that the sources of funds and the uses of funds are not one and the same. This process is also so complexly structured that while individual contributions comprise the major source of funds to the market, the utilization of funds is done by different sectors in the economy. Capital formation comprising of Savings and Investment holds the key to this process. In this causal sequence, Savings play the role of the initiator. The ability of an economy to generate savings depends on the combined abilities of the general public and the government. It is here that the financial system comes into play by converting the savings into productive results. Significance of Financial Intermediation The savings process is facilitated by the financial Intermediaries. In simple terms, financial intermediaries perform the function of facilitating supply of funds to the user of funds, by obtaining the same from the depositors or savers of funds. The term ‘financial intermediaries’ includes different institutions like Banks, Insurance companies, Investment companies, Developmental Financial Institutions, Non-banking Finance Companies, Mutual funds, Pension funds etc. While the role of above institutions is singular with respect to financial intermediation, the functions that are performed by each one of them are different. In a nutshell, these types of intermediation revolve around liquidity position of funds, risks in loans, and pooling of risks to take advantage of economies of scale. To sum up, the function of financial intermediation has arisen out of the need on the part of savers to reach the investors and the inability of investors to find savers. Developed economic systems may not require the need of full-fledged financial intermediaries, unlike the developing systems. This is due to the fact that the gap between the saver and the investor is absolutely minimal. This is referred to as â€Å"financial disintermediation†. The process of financial disintermediation is best achieved by reducing the cost of funds thereby facilitating direct capital formation, which spurs economic growth. The greatest advantage in this process is the fact that it reduces the time gap between saving of money and utilization. The process of financial intermediation is always fraught with risks. Risks both for the givers of funds and the takers of funds, besides the risks for financial intermediaries themselves. The risk factor arises in the first place out of the need for the availability of information and in the second place the need for players to be aware of the available information. Consequently, the need for regulations and the role for a regulator are felt. Financial Intermediation in Indian context In India, without exception, a single type of intermediary does not perform the task of financial intermediation. Different types of financial intermediaries exist and their functions are discussed below. Banks: Banks comprise the oldest form of financial intermediaries in India. The Indian financial scene is dotted with a number of banking institutions. All these banks are segregated into various categories. This segregation has been done on the basis of their incorporation and the businesses performed by them. Consequently, we have various kinds of banking institutions. These are: i. Commercial banks, ii. Regional Rural Banks, iii. Local Area Banks, iv. Co-operative banks. The above classification suggests that banks have been divided under various types depending on the need to achieve the different economic objectives. While making the above classification, geographical factors, need for sectoral deployment of funds involving allocation of funds for Agriculture, Industry, and Service sector etc. have been taken into consideration. However, gradually, the needs of industrial sector have become so huge and complex that separate institutions have been set up for farming the industrial sector. Development Financial Institutions (DFIs): Deployment of funds in the Industrial sector is a major challenge. Industry’s requirements vary depending upon their short-term and long-term needs. The activities of short-term lending and long-term lending are separate and specialized functions. After understanding this finer aspect, the Government of India took initiative to set up specialized institutions for this purpose. For this reason, we find that most of the DFIs – such as the Industrial Development Bank of India (IDBI), are statutorily formed. These institutions provide finances for most of the greenfield projects in the Indian economy and have made a significant contribution by way of financing long –term projects. It is significant to note here that DFIs have been influenced by the changes in the Indian banking scenario to such an extent that these institutions are conlemplating to become universal banks. Insurance Companies: The path of reformation in the Banking industry has also caught up with the other intermediaries as well. In this respect, Insurance industry is witnessing path-breaking changes. In fact, in many countries Insurance companies perform a leading role as financial intermediaries. In India, Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) continues to play a very vital role in mobilizing savings and delivering Insurance, though the industry is experiencing the competition from players both Indian and Foreign. With the entry of banks into the arena of insurance business it is interesting to find the beneficial impact of convergence of banking and insurance business. Non-Banking Finance Companies (NBFC): The process of Intermediation virtually begins at home, with the household sector. This sector is the basic source of funds for the intermediaries. Such being the important role of the households, NBFCs as independent institutions, have come into existence to meet their financial requirements. The services offered by the NBFCs cater to the whole gamut of needs of the household sector in particular and savers in general. * Emerging Disintermediation in India** With a rapid growth in the intermediation process, the need for financial disintermediation at some stage cannot be overlooked. Realizing fully well that developed systems find lesser need for financial intermediation, in the Indian context the policy reforms aimed at encouraging free market institutions have been moving the financial markets towards disintermediation. The onset of the process of economic liberalization in 1991 has brought about a sea change in the financial markets. The abolition of the office of Controller of Capital Issues (CCI) and the establishment of Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) in 1992 was done essentially with a view to giving an impetus to the capital markets. The market happenings in 1992-94, did strike a hard blow to this mechanism. During the past three years the process of consolidation has begun. Though a reduction in the number of IPOs does suggest to a slackening of the Capital markets, there is also a brighter side of investors becoming more suave. Sources of Funds A discussion on financial intermediaries has to begin with the ‘raw material’ for this activity, i. e. funds. Financial intermediaries are required to raise funds in order to fulfill the needs of both fund-based and non fund-based activities. Considering the various sources and choices available, the financial intermediary considers the following variables in deciding about the ways and means of raising funds. These are: Maturity, Cost of funds, Tax implications, Regulatory framework and Market conditions. Maturity is vital since the intermediary has to plan for the repayment of debt. Since investors look for returns as against the intermediary looking for good spread and income, Cost of funds turns out to be crucial. Tax treatment on returns on some of the instruments could be different – with certain exemptions Thus, Tax implications are useful for tax planning for both the intermediary and the saver. The instruments have to fulfill a plethora of rules and regulations which require the knowledge of Regulatory framework. For designing a particular type of instrument knowledge of Market conditions is essential. Different Sources of Funds In addition to providing low-cost funds, the shareholder route is a popular and easy way for the common public to become ‘owners’ of companies. As the name suggests, the money belongs to the shareholders. Financial institutions have been innovating different methods for raising money from the prospective shareholders. ‘Reserves’ is another source of funds. Incidentally, it is to be known that some of the Reserves are created statutorily. Borrowing by a company is another source of funds for the company, which are repayable with interest. Unlike equity, the funds raised by way of loans are to be repaid. ** **Sources of Funds unique to a Bank The previous classification of sources of funds does not fully explain the avenues for Banks. By virtue of being one of the earliest financial intermediaries, and possibly the most prudent as well, banks have a privileged access to a few more instruments. Considering the fact that different types of financial intermediaries have accessibility to varied types of funds at different rates of interest, it has become necessary for the RBI to lay down norms in this regard. Financial Intermediaries look towards liquidity in the market for enhancing their scope of operations. However, liquidity is a double-edged knife. Excess liquidity or lack of liquidity affects the financial system resulting in either a reduction or an increase in the rate of interest. The cyclical effect is felt by the economy. For controlling liquidity levels in the economy, RBI exercises control through the mechanisms of CRR and SLR. CRR is the reserve to be maintained by banks with the RBI. SLR is the reserve that is maintained by banks for investment in cash, gold or unencumbered approved securities. Deposits The customers’ confidence level reflects the strength of a bank. There is no better way of reflecting the same by any other indicator than Deposits. In the wake of globalization, the avenues for banks for raising funds in the capital market have increased, both in the national and international markets. In terms of value to the Banking system, banks that have a greater deposit base have more value than the banks with a poor deposit base. Banks accept deposits in different ways. Such acceptance could be different in terms of the period, amount, rate of interest and the type of depositor. All the deposit accounts could be classified under Transaction accounts and Non-transaction accounts. The types of accounts that a customer – individually, jointly or corporate can have, are varied. Having said that Deposits are an important source of funds for the banks, a banker is wary about the types of deposits. A term deposit is a dependable source, but the cost is higher than Demand deposits that are low cost funds for the banks. Consequently, the composition of deposits has a direct impact on the profitability of the bank. Application of Funds The real challenge for the financial intermediaries begins at the very end of the first stage i. e. after mobilization of deposits. The meter virtually starts ticking from that time onwards since the deposits are to be repaid by the bank to the customer after a certain period with interest. In order to honor this commitment, financial intermediaries use their funds in different ways. Broadly, the purposes under which they are used can be classified under: i. loans and advances, ii. investments, iii. fixed assets. Loans â€Å"Loan† is a distinct activity wherein funds are taken from the saver and given to the investor. By nationalizing major banks in 1969 and 1980 Government of India sought to direct the utilization of bank funds for socially disired, objectives reflected in priority sector lending. Priority sector lending includes Agriculture and Small Scale Industry as focus areas that would promote equitable development of regions and promote employment avenues. Loans can be classified as secured loans and unsecured loans based on the availability of security or otherwise. Investments The best way to earn attractive return on money is by following an Investment strategy. Since banks have to service their borrowings and deposits at a reasonably good rate and put the funds into more profitable use, Investments in securities offer an option, though in many instances, this is a statutory requirement. There are three main reasons for the Banks to invest in government securities. These are: (i) in case need arises; government securities meet the liquidity requirements of a bank; (ii) it forms a second line of security, for emergency borrowing from RBI, and (iii) for meeting statutory SLR requirements, aimed at protecting the interests of depositor. Banks are also selectively restricted from investing in equity shares. Investments are made in equity shares either through primary issue or by secondary market. Investment initiatives in equity by banks are expected to boost a sagging capital market. Apart from the primary functions of deposit collection and lending, banks also perform treasury operations. The necessity arises out of liquidity compulsions in operations. Banks invest in bonds and debentures as a part of their regular treasury operations and also on behalf of customers. Fixed assets however, constitute a very small amount of investment by banks. The Management of Financial institutions revolves around two basic functions: i. the ability of the intermediary to raise funds, and ii. to deploy them. These two activities determine the sustenance as well as profitability of the intermediaries. Lending Function Apart from the fact that Lending constitutes the major source of income for the bank, the process of lending also depends on the bankers’ appraisal skills. The banks’ funds can be applied in two major areas i. e. investments in securities and credit accommodation. In the process, banks essentially look to balance the ‘spreads’. Apart from the necessity of complying with the regulatory prescriptions, requirement of profitability virtually forces banks to develop an organized credit deployment mechanism. The credit policy of banks is determined by the demand and supply of loanable funds of banks. Firstly, on the demand side of the economy there are the consumers of goods and services. Secondly, the need for credit comes from the corporate sector in the manufacturing, trading and services sectors. Credit management is a specialized area. This is due to the fact that there are different types of credit, and each type of credit is characterized by certain unique factors. Loan is a broad term used to explain the different types of credit facilities – short/medium term extended in the credit market. The selection of the type of loan by a borrower depends on three factors namely, need for credit, cost factor, and cash flow requirements. Since a loan has a demand side and supply side as well, loans can be classified accordingly. Demand side loans will be individual loans while Supply side loans can be classified as commercial loans. As in the case of a borrower, for the bank, providing the loans depends on three factors, namely the nature of credit, the type of security and the purpose of loan. Based on these parameters, further classification of the banks’ advances is done. Loans are also further classified under secured and unsecured loans. Banks have been providing advances to different sectors of the economy and at the same time providing loans to the needy sectors. The sectoral classification of bank loans is made as under: i. priority sector, ii. public sector, iii. banking sector, and iv. others. Loan Appraisal and Disbursal Preliminary appraisal involves an analysis of the market, technology, financial, and managerial skills of borrowing. Once the bank decides to finance, other critical issues are the decisions relating to the mode of financing. Finance is given for land, site development, building, plant and machinery and also for working capital. Banks arrive at the amount of Maximum Permissible Bank Finance (MPBF) through various appraisal methods. **Non-fund Based Services* Non-fund based Services Non-fund based advances in the form of: Letters of Credit and Guarantees offer a very attractive proposition to the banker. Since funds disbursement arises only on default or the happening or non-happening of an event, bank holds only contingent liability. Payments and clearing operations Clearing and remittences constitute important services under ancillary services. The major role of a bank involves mobilizing savings and channelizing them into investments. Complementing these activities are ancillary services of the banks which facilitate the entire payment and settlement system of financial transactions

Health Unit Coordinator Essay

Health unit coordinators provide support in areas of the hospital where nursing care is provided to patients. They perform a variety of services to patients, visitors, and hospital management. Health unit coordinators receive new patients and give information and direction to visitors. They have good communication skills to perform the follow tasks: answering the telephone, providing information to the health professional staff, answering patient signals, and taking and delivering messages. see more:explain why it is important to assess health and safety risks Unit coordinators also need a working knowledge of medical terminology for transcribing doctors’ orders, copying and compiling information from patients’ charts, and scheduling tests and appointments for patients. Other duties include maintenance of records, maintenance and inventories of supplies and equipment. At the direction of nurses or doctors, the unit coordinator also makes emergency code calls. Specialty areas include reception, scheduling, communication, archive maintenance, clerical duties, coordination of non-clinical tasks, and safety. Most health unit coordinators work in hospitals. The work environment is often fast-paced with many activities in progress at any given time. Although health unit coordinators may receive on-the-job training, many hospitals prefer to hire those who graduated from formal education programs. These programs are offered by vocational schools, adult education centers, and community colleges and take a year or less to complete. In training programs, students receive a combination of classroom and clinical training. They learn clerical skills, medical terminology, hospital organization, legal and ethical responsibilities, transcription of doctors’ orders, computer operation, and other relevant courses.

Research Report Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Report - Research Paper Example But its first real passenger run was made on May 24th 1855, Queen Victoria's birthday, in itself significant of the period it represented. At the time, the transportation of merchandise was problematic, mostly because although explorers opened new ways throughout the land, the roads were built in a very rough way, with consequent increase in the time and cost of transportation, for both goods and people. This was, however, also the time in which railway expansion was being hailed as the best possible solution for fast and cost-effective transportation, a reliable alternative to those crudely made roads, something which held even more true in new territories such as Australia. Thoughts of a railway in New South Wales started as early as 1830s, but it was to take another 20 years for the dream to become a reality. The railway met with many problems, most conspicuously the cost of its making and the New South Wales Government had to take over in September 1855. The line opened officiall y on September 26th of that same year, although on that day another two engines run and not Locomotive 1. The line was then 14 miles long with five stops: Newtown, Ashfield, Burwood, Homebush and Parramatta. Over 3500 passengers were carried in that day, and the fact that they all dressed in their finest is witness to the importance of the event in the society of the time. With time lighter locomotives were designed for passenger transportation, while the heavier original ones remained in service for goods. By October 1859 the line had evolved to the point of having six trains per day during the week going to Paramatta, and the trip took 50 minutes to complete. Locomotive No. 1, the initiator of it all, run for 22 years of service and was withdrawn on March 15th 1877. Although it was at some point refitted with some parts from other engines, it is still the only surviving specimen of its kind. It seems also a kind of poetic justice that during its conservation process it was found t o include parts of locomotives 2, 3 and 4, as if in just he one engine all four of the original team somehow survived. The Victorian era was certainly concerned with progress and efficiency as witnessed by the Great Exhibition of 1851, showcasing the greatest inventions of the world at the time in the famous Crystal Palace. It was also the time for the Industrial Revolution and the consequent changes it brought socially. It is no wonder then, that in this Renaissance-like atmosphere the railway took such an important place in both industry and imagination alike, being a harbinger of power, speed, efficiency and comfort. Related designs: The first road steam engine was invented in 1801 by Robert Trevithick, a small vehicle that managed to take four men up the Camborne Hill in Cornwall. This was the beginning, with a newer and improved version he called the London Steam Carriage, which ran from Holborn to Paddington and back, a reproduction of the Puffing Devil but still uncomfortable for passengers and expensive to run. Here is a drawing of the London Steam Carriage: However, the locomotive's true ancestor can be said to be the Pen-y-Darren Locomotive, which became famous in 1804 for successfully pulling 10 tons of iron. This is a replica of Trevithick's railway locomotive hosted at the National Waterfront Museum in Swansea. Trevithick's 1804 locomotive, full-scale replica 1) 2) Motivations and effect of the design: Although the study of steam as a source of power goes back

Communication in business Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 1

Communication in business - Essay Example In economic pursuit, we aim at promoting environmental sustainability.3 Our business is based on a solid philosophy of equal employment opportunities and fostering environmental sustainability through green manufacturing processes. ... n employment or occupation occurs when a potential employee is treated negatively or differently due to his characteristics that are not relevant or inherent for successful performance of the job. Commonly characteristics that employees are mainly discriminated against include race, color, age, sex, gender, political inclination, ethnicity, religion and nationality. We at Hyundai Motors have since extended these characteristics to include sexual orientation, disability and diseases such as HIV/AIDS. Discrimination in employment matters has been witnessed in areas such as recruitment, job allocations, promotions, and performance evaluations, security of tenure, compensation and termination of employment. Hyundai Motors prohibits all manners of employment discrimination, whether direct or indirect discrimination, by ensuring all employees and potential candidates are accorded equal opportunities regardless of their personal characteristics. Discrimination in employment matters infringe s the fundamental human right of equal access to employment and humane treatment in the workplace.7 Principle 8 Initiatives to promote greater environmental sustainability Benefits and implications Hyundai Motors engages in clean manufacturing processes that limit environmental pollution. According to Global Compact principle 8, business organizations undertake measures to promote environmental sustainability.8 According to the Rio Declaration, business organisations have the responsibility of ensuring their activities do not degrade the environment or cause pollution. The immediate communities expect the business organisations to actively participate in environmental conservation initiatives. All business organisations should work closely with the major stakeholders like suppliers in order

The Methodist Understanding of the Priesthood of All Believers Essay

The Methodist Understanding of the Priesthood of All Believers - Essay Example According to the research findings, it can, therefore, be said that many Protestants deny the biblical doctrine of the priesthood of all believers. If Roman Catholics have only one pope, the Protestants have many, but not literally having popes with the same roles and position in a church. For the Catholic Priesthood, ordinary believers in Christ are not worthy to talk directly to God and that they need someone more deserving to mediate for a fee. Traditionally, Catholics and their members follow the custom of confession—the act of using intermediary such as the priest to confess one’s thoughts or feelings in order to be forgiven because they regard the priests as â€Å"holy† and â€Å"authorize† to relay your plea to God. The Methodists believe that the only way to get to heaven is to put faith in Jesus as the Saviour. But plainly believing in Christ is not enough. You have to be baptized and do good works to profess your faith as such when Jesus performe d good works and preaching in his time. Moreover, if they sin, they ask forgiveness in Christ and try not to commit the same sin again. The Protestant reformers emphasized that this salvation is a product of Gods grace alone. Ephesians 2:8-9 (King James Version Bible) gives evidence to this doctrine as it says, "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast,† and asserts that "Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law". God’s grace through salvation is not just about the forgiveness of sins but also liberation from death and hell. Since God bestows on the people His undeserved kindness, neither good works nor pious religious practices in themselves can earn salvation.

Analyses of Youths Working in Fast Food Industries Essay

Analyses of Youths Working in Fast Food Industries - Essay Example The essay "Analyses of Youths Working in Fast Food Industries" presents an overview of the article "Working at McDonald's" by Amitai Etzioni who emphasizes that there is little learning in terms of skills development taking place. This article is well written and the author tries to portray his argument in a clear and succinct way. The author substantiates his arguments with factual information that has been drawn from other studies related to this particular problem. For instance, the author quotes the Charper-Freser Study which posts to the effect that teenagers often work for about 30 hours per week and only 20% of them work for 15 hours or less. A critical reading of the article also shows that the teens often finish work very late and this is likely to impact negatively on their school work. Obviously, by the time they get home late at night, they will be tired so they cannot be in a position to complete their school work. In terms of academic development, these teens are likely to lag behind and they may not be in a position to get better-paying jobs. The other important point that has been portrayed by the author is that most teen work these days is not providing early lessons in the work ethic. It fosters escape from school and responsibilities and it provides a shortcut to the consumerist aspects of adult life. This is very bad for youth development since they will fail to concentrate on their studies in pursuit of earning quick money which may negatively impact on their career development. Indeed, the teens need to learn to be self reliant from a tender age but they often find themselves in a trap where they fail to balance their academic life and the need to earn extra income while they are still at school. The result is that most of these people will drop out of school in order to concentrate on these part time jobs that can offer them quick money. Once this has happened, career development suffers and these people end up doing low paying jobs throughout their lives as a result of the fact that they will be lacking requisite skills to perform other professional jobs that are better paying and secure. The other interesting point raised by the author is that â€Å"there is no father or mother figure with which to identify to emulate to provide a role model and guidance,† (283). It can be observed that these teens have little room for skills development since they do not have anyone to guide them so that they can improve in their work. It can also be noted that there are less adult values that are transmitted to these teens since they are forced to supervise themselves at work. This is a strategy by some of these fast food restaurants like McDonalds that intend to cut costs by avoiding hiring experienced supervisors. These in turn can impart vital knowledge among the youths but this is not the case. at the end of the day, it can be seen that there is no development taking place among the youths but they are exposed to a situation where youth delinquency thrives. Whenever there is no adult leadershi p or guidance, the problem that is likely to be

Ethics for Professionals - Professionals & Deception (Philosophy Essay

Ethics for Professionals - Professionals & Deception (Philosophy Topic) - Essay Example Ironically though, Nyberg (1993, p. 7) observes that despite all these public condemnations against lying and deception, everyone is actually privately culpable of it. Why so – he furthers that perhaps it is necessary to maintain equilibrium in people’s social relations, or possibly, it gives credence to moral decency. Meaning, although lying and deception is publicly acknowledged to be an immoral professional act, certain circumstances may compel or warrant professionals to resort to lying and deception. As Englehardt & Evans (1994) suggests, there are some instances when outright lying may be morally right and there may also be some instances when the simple act of not divulging information is morally wrong. Such is the heart of the matter – Is lying and deception justified in the conduct of one’s profession? Are professionals ever justified in, or even compelled to lie to or deceive their clients?  If so, in what context would this be morally permissible? If not, why? Is outright  lying worse than deception in the professions? Why would it be or would it not be? Is a professional ever entitled to lie to his/her  client, or to other people to protect the client? Such are seemingly easy questions? There may not be correct or wrong answers to them. Nevertheless, the issue of lying and deception in profession is one of the gray areas in professional ethics that warrant further inquiry and discussion. From the following definitions of lying – ‘No liar preserves faith in that about which he lies†¦ wishes that he to whom he lies have faith in him, but†¦ does not preserve faith by lying to him’ (Chisholm & Feehan 1977, p. 152); ‘A person lies when he asserts something to another which he believes to be false with the intention of getting the other to believe it to be true’ (Kupfer 1982, p. 104); ‘A person lies when he asserts a proposition he believes to be false’ (Fried 1978, p. 55); Lying is ‘making a statement believed to be

Fire Protection Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3750 words

Fire Protection - Research Paper Example To understand fire, there is need to analyze the paradigms, which revolve around the origin of fire in eth living world, and the significance of fire to the human race. It is important however to note that these different paradigms are different and coherent on their own, but significantly insufficient on their own self. Thus, fire may assume many definitions, which is only suitable for the specific discipline framed by the condition outside the phenomenon (Fire Research Report). Such broad definitions introduce questions relating to the real fundamentals of fire, and the characteristics that people should undertake to control and use it. This paper seeks to define and analyze the fire problem, explore some of the potential solutions to the problem, and review the first steps that will initiate the solution to the problem. Introduction Fire is among the fundamental basics in the world, both for personal and industrial use. The phenomenon is commonplace and among the elements that sus tain humans in earth. Picture a world with no fire, which means there would be no cooking and other necessary processes that result from combustion or burning. Fire has numerous definitions depending on the discipline of concern. Essentially, fire is the process of burning or combustion in which chemical combination of components with oxygen takes place to produce light, smoke, and heat. However, it is common for most disciplines to have their own definition that conforms to their condition frame that lie outside the fire itself, and which seemingly poses no intrinsic intellectual identity. Such a wide and varying definition of eth phenomenon raises certain questions, which include the real fundamentals of fire and the characteristics that people should undertake to use and control it (Pyne 271). Such founding concerns seemed like illogical arguments in the initial studies on fire and its management. Then, fire was simply there, flaring and smoldering across the earth, and there was need to determine its direction, its fierce, and its speed, and subsequently devise means to stop its spread. With time, other questions emerged, especially concerning economical and ecological, though with reference to the conception that fire was embedded in physical sciences. Fire had similar impacts to the society and biota as windstorms and floods did, yet this did not provide an answer to the question of fire management. To understand fire and perhaps achieve a viable fire protection strategy, there is need to understand the three paradigms of fire: physical, cultural, and biological. Nevertheless, here is a discussion on the basics of fire (Coon 127). The Triangle of Fire Fire requires three elements to initiate. This essentially refers to the triangle of fire. If any of the elements is missing, then fire will not ignite, or if already burning, will quench the flames. These three elements are fuel, oxygen, and heat. Fire needs some consumable elements to ignite or to continu e burning. This consumable material or element is the fuel, which may be a gas, a liquid, or a solid. Furthermore, fire requires oxygen to burn. Removing oxygen from the fire will put off the flames. In technical terms, this is what experts call ‘quenching’ a fire. In atmospheres with less than 16% of oxygen, fires will not burn or combust (Coon 164). Heat refers to the energy that the fire requires to burn, without which the flames dies. The fire triangle simply shows the elements that must be present before a fire starts. Fig 1: The

Death Script pertaining to chronic illness Assignment

Death Script pertaining to chronic illness - Assignment Example As I became immersed in my reverie I imagined my husband and my mother at my side when the doctor gave me the dreaded news that I had leukemia. I saw myself not being able to respond at all to what the doctor was telling us. My mother’s silent sniffle seemed distant and unreal and I couldn’t bring myself to see my husband. The news of death shocked me to the extent that I kind of forgot my surroundings and the people I loved so dearly. It’s almost as though that moment was reserved just for me. A hope still lingered at the back of my mind that my physician may be mistaken, that the possibility of finding cure elsewhere would be worth making the effort for. I tried to comfort myself with the thought that I wasn’t the only one dying. After all people die every day, every second even and it’s just a reality check that everyone has to come to terms with (CDC 2009). I suppose I’m better off than a lot of people who die at such a young age having not even started their lives. I tried to rationalize the news of my death by considering the fact that middle aged women are most prone to die if they have leukemia (Emedtv n.d). I comfort myself with the thought that at least I gave birth to five beautiful children and I got to raise them to be good human beings. I got the opportunity to bond with a man who fathered my children and made me feel special in so many ways. Still the agony, the betrayal of life itself and the fear of not knowing what lay ahead of me gave me a sinking feeling, sucking out all my happiness in an instant. As days passed by it felt like I was already dead. My mother was constantly at my side and as much as my husband wanted to be there someone had to stay home to take care of my children and tend to worldly affairs. My mother would try to distract me to take my mind off of my illness but I knew that it was all she could think about too. I wished I could spend

Sherlock Holmes stories Essay Example for Free

Sherlock Holmes stories Essay Can the continued popularity of the Sherlock Holmes stories be explained by the similarity to modern television detectives? Discuss this statement with reference to The Speckled Band. The Sherlock Holmes saga has a huge inspirational impact on todays television detective stories. The reason why the Sherlock Holmes mysteries are so successful is because they contain many qualities of a classic mystery genre. It is a fair presumption if one was to say that the stories always follow a certain pattern and that in normal circumstances it is expected of the reader to lose interest, but Sherlock managed to obtain his popularity even to present day. A clear sign of how cleverly crafted Arthur Conan Doyle made these crime stories. Sherlock Holmes is a crime detective who has the ability to solve the hardest of criminal equations with the minimalist of facts, using his somewhat superb observational skills and his incredible method of scientific deduction. There is no mystery, my dear madam, said he, smiling. The left arm of your jacket is spattered with mud in no less than seven places. The marks are perfectly fresh. There is no vehicle save a dog-cart which throws up mud in that way, and then only when you sit on the left-hand side of the driver. Quoted from The Speckled Band. Holmes is a realistic and believable character, bringing the novels to life. Holmes always inspires a sense of confidence in other characters and indeed the reader as he shares a certainty of his attitude towards the mystery and the way he doesnt suffer fools gladly, always using his own initiative. This makes the reader feel as if Holmes is very confident about himself, thus making the reader confident and ultimately it makes them read on, a perfect example of Arthur Conan Doyles ability to captivate his readers. Always accompanying Holmes was his loyal companion and entrusted sidekick Dr Watson. With his old fashioned values and his consistent reliability, Watson is the perfect partner for Holmes. Watson shows a sense of amazement towards Holmess abilities and although he explains his deductions and predictions, Watson still could not do it himself. In terms of solving the crime, Watson seems rather useless. And as most of the time it seems as if Watson does not know whats going on inside Sherlocks mind, this adds suspense to the story. Arthur Conan Doyle has cleverly used Watson as a tool Holmes explains his methods and deductions to Watson and therefore to the reader. Watson is also the narrator of the story. Holmes appears in four novels and fifty-seven short stories. Arthur Conan Doyle got tired of writing about Holmes and so he killed him off in 1893 by having him fall to his death over the Reichenbach Falls in Switzerland. The stories had stop in production over one hundred years ago but still to this day they are very successful. Sherlock Holmes was modeled on and originated from Dr Joseph Bell, a surgeon in Edinburgh who had an extraordinary ability to deduce the backgrounds and occupations of his patients from minute details of their appearance. An excellent example of how the Sherlock Holmes saga has influenced modern crime story structures is Inspector Morse, a recently finished epic of mystery/crime television programs. Spanning 14 years, the ever-popular series shared a certain similarity to Holmes. Written by Colin Dexter and starring John Thaw (Left) as Inspector Morse and Kevin Whately as his trusted side kick Lewis (Right), Inspector Morse captivated viewers of all ages and class, again, very similar to Holmes. Morse and Lewis appear in thirty-three episodes and the stories are also available in other formats, such as paperback novels, paperback omnibuss and audio books as are the Holmes stories. Here is a description of the Speckled Band, one of the many successful Holmes stories written by Arthur Conan Doyle, and Deadly Slumber one of the thirty-three stories written by Colin Dexter, purposely to give a clear contrast of the similarities,: Deadly Slumber When Dr. Brewster is found dead in his car in his locked garage, everyone but Chief Inspector Morse writes the doctors death off as a suicide. A comment by the doctors wife troubles Morse, and he thinks the good doctors death anything but suicide. The chief inspectors suspicions are quickly confirmed by the autopsy it was murder. His investigation of the family soon uncovers a grudge against the family after a botched surgery on the daughter of Michael Steppings, a millionaire businessman who became a semi-reclusive following his daughter Avrils surgery that left her in a vegetative state. Steppings vowed to avenge his daughters condition on all parties involved in the surgery after losing a civil suit against the doctor and his clinic. Steppings goes so far as to send threatening letters to the doctor, but not the two other people on the surgical team the day of the operation. This oversight puzzles Morse. Steppings becomes Morses prime suspect and just as quickly is cleared by Morse and Sgt. Lewis. Then Morse is pointed in one direction by the family and another by his former prime suspect in Daniel Boyles extremely well crafted script. The last twenty minutes of Deadly Slumber is a roller coaster ride as the evidence leads Morse to one suspect after another. The adventure of the Speckled Band The speckled band leaves Helen Stoners twin sister in a state of occult horror just before her marriage. Now its Helens marriage and the same whistling sounds that her sister had heard in the nights preceding her death have come back to Stoke Moran. Her estranged stepfather seems to be the only culprit as the only other inhabitants of the old English stately home are the wild baboon and leopard. Holmes and Watson are quickly on the case, and come to the strange conclusion that it was a rare and highly venomous snake that was to blame for the mysterious deaths. As you can see both stories share the same basic structure, with the build up of suspense and the analysis of the deduction. Though perhaps one might say that the endings of the Holmes stories were somewhat more imaginative and dramatic in comparison to Morses more down to earth, realistic conclusions. To conclude, the continued popularity of the Sherlock Holmes stories, in my opinion, can be explained by the similarity to modern television detectives, as the modern television detectives are too similar to Holmes to dismiss as being created from a different origin. Taking into account the Sherlock Holmes stories were created over one hundred years ago it is fair to presume that modern day crime/mystery authors get there inspirations from the likes of Arthur Conan Doyle.

Lord Of The Flies Alternative Ending Essay Example for Free

Lord Of The Flies Alternative Ending Essay Ralph was the first to spot Simon. He saw him stumbling down the mountain like a pathetic new born calf. His eyes were wide but heavy and tired at the same time. The camp stopped at a sudden and they watched Simon get closer and closer. Simon opened his mouth and began to talk. The blue-white scar was constant, the noise unendurable. Simon was crying out something about a dead man on a hill. Ralph strained his ears to try and listen but could not hear anything over the endless chants from the hunters. Then in such a quick second, the game had taken a terrible turn. Ralph caught a glimpse of Jacks eyes. They were fixated on Simon and were full of anger and fury. Then in that split second, Ralph realised that he should do something quickly for the sake of Simon. Somehow, he knew that they were going to do something terrible. The chanting was getting stronger and the storm was becoming harsher. Ralph broke through the circling hunters and grabbed Simons arm. He pulled him through the mass of chanting savages and made him run a little way down the beach until they came to an opening to the forest. Go Simon, run through the forest as fast and as far as you can. Ralph looked into Simons eyes. He had never seen such clear and beautiful eyes before in his whole life. Now, they sparkled like he had never seen anything sparkle before in his life. He closed his eyes and he felt Simons arm leave the lose grip of his hand. He heard the scurrying of Simons little feet pad into the forest and into the darkness. Ralphs knees gave way and he slumped on to the ground. Realising that he was awake and not unconscious, he became aware to the chanting that had became close. Too close. Kill the beast! Cut his throat! Spill his blood! The chanting was continuous and the words spun through his head. The savages blurred in front of his eyes. Then there was silence. A voice spoke. Ralph recognised it as Jack. You let the beast escape. You are an ally of the beast and I dont want any beasts on my island. How do we know that you are not the beast? Dont worry, we will find the other beast, he cant get far. Look my hunters! We have found another beast! Ralph tried to scream but the circle burst and started dancing and chanting again. This time Ralph could feel the spears scratching at his skin. Ralph didnt move. He had given up. All he was waiting for was the final plunge of the spear to finish him off. Kill the beast! Spill his blood! Do him in! An old woman began to pour a slender middle-aged man another cup of tea. Oh, no thank you, replied the man. Now Mrs Doon, tell me a little about the patient. Ive visited all the boys who returned from the island but it sounds as though yours has taken the experience the worst. Hes such a poor little boy. Hes been so ill since hes arrived home. You would of thought that at least his father would come home to spend some time with him. He wont let anyone show him the slightest bit of affection. It breaks my heart to see him like this. Anyway, what do I know? Here, let me show you to his room. Mrs Doon guided the guest through a long winding passage to the top of the house. He thought that is was never going to end. Suddenly they heard a small boys voice crying out from the darkness. Sounds like hes had another nightmare again. They happen nearly every night now. I dont know what to do for him anymore. Looks like you came at a good time doctor. We better go quickly now. Mrs Doon carried on up the stairs but this time with a little more speed. The doctor could see how drained and tired she was. He walked anxiously behind her. He refused to return to his own room and so we converted the attic into a room. He never comes out of it. All he does is sit up there all day. Ive offered to decorate it for him but he insists that he likes it the way it is. He also always has to say that he is the leader and we must do what he wants. Now, I know that I am just someone employed by his father, but really! Well, what can you expect after being deserted on an island for three months, eh? Here we are. Now, I have to warn you doctor, he does tend to act a bit strange. The old woman opened the door to the dark and miserable bedroom. Mrs Doon went straight for the curtains and snatched them back. The little body on the bed flinched at the immense light. Now, Now, what is it? Another bad dream? Come on now, sit up a little. You have a visitor. The little boys eyes were full of madness. Sweat dripped from his forehead. On his bed lay hundred of crumpled drawings. All the drawings were done with so much accuracy, but without colour, they lacked life. It was chanting again. Over and over and- Hush. Now then. This is Doctor Wahlburg. He just wants to talk to you. Hes not going to harm you. He wants to help you. Hello, began the doctor in a calming voice. How are you feeling today then? There was silence and no apparent movement. The childs eyes made the doctor nervous and restless. So, what are these drawings? Did you do these? They are splendid. Yes, whispered the boy. His mouth hardly moving. I did these, but this is my favourite one. The boy reached over the bed and picked up a shoebox off the floor. He opened it with so much care and presented a perfectly folded piece of paper. He opened it with his eyes so wide. He showed the picture of a huge shell to the doctor. Like all the other pictures in the room, so much care had been taken over it. However, this picture had the quality of colour added to it. Ralph my dear, it is freezing in here! Let me light you a fire- No! Screamed Ralph. He sprang out of his bed while making horrific snarling noises. He began to circle the old woman. The doctor grabbed Ralphs arm as an attempt to out him to bed again, but Ralph squirmed free of the grip and stood his ground in front of the terrified Mrs Doon. What did I say? I said that I would get waxy if you tried to light that fire, didnt I? I want to be alone with the doctor so let us be! The old woman shuffled nervously out of the room. See what I mean? she cried just as she left the room. Ralph jumped happily back into bed, satisfied with his victory over an adult. It was obvious that he had found someone he liked in the form of the doctor. Still clutching onto his drawing, he sat at the top of the bed, quite innocently, and not making a sound. The doctor stirred on his spot very cautiously and slowly made his way to a chair at the end of the bed. He began to say something, but stopped himself and sat there in his own thoughts for a few minutes. Then he began. He opened up his notebook and took out a pencil. Now Ralph, I want you to start from the beginning and dont leave anything out. I want you to let out what has been eating away at you. Its your turn now.

Social Identity Theory And Self Categorisation Theory Sociology Essay

Social Identity Theory And Self Categorisation Theory Sociology Essay Social Identity Theory was established by Tajfel and Turner with the aim of trying to understand the psychological basis of intergroup discrimination. Tajfel and Turner (1979) tried to identify conditions which would lead members of a specific social group to behave in a biased matter towards an out-group, in favour of the in-group which they were a member of. It is seen as a discursive approach. The main principle of Social Identity Theory is that people often categorise and define themselves and others into a number of different social groups and strive to have their group valued more highly than other groups (Tajfel Turner, 1985). Consistent with Tajfel and Turners (1985) claim, it is believed, by other psychologists, that social identities are formed to boost self-esteem and encourage a sense of certainty (McGregor, Reeshama and So-Jin, 2008). To explain the phenomenon of how individuals evaluate themselves and others as part of an in-group or an out-group, Social Identity Theor y identifies three mental concepts: social categorisation, social identification and social comparison (TaÃ…Å ¸demir, 2011). Social categorisation relates to individuals assigning people to social categories in order to understand and identify them (Tajfel Turner, 1979). This results in the world being divided into them and us, or an in-group and an out-group. In the second concept, social identification, people adopt the identity of the social group they have categorised themselves into. This also involves developing an emotional attachment to ones identification with the group and self-esteem will be closely linked to group membership (Tajfel Turner, 1979). The final concept, social comparison, relates to an individual comparing the group they identify with with other groups. To retain ones self-esteem, their group must be viewed in a more positive light than other groups (Tajfel Turner, 1979). Several psychological studies have supported the fact that individuals create so cial categories in order to boost self-esteem. An example of this being when individuals learn that their social group is unacceptable to society, they tend to perceive the out-group as unacceptable as well (Ford Tonander, 1998). Haslam (2001) has identified two types of strategies individuals use to boost their groups status: social conflict and social creativity. Social conflict refers to the in-group undermining the social status of the out-group. This can be done in a violent manner or by way of protests. Social creativity relates to the in-group emphasising group features which they flourish on, by way of advertising these strengths. Haslam (2001) argues that when the in-group does not feel at risk and feel their status is largely secure they will engage in social creativity rather than social conflict. However, when members of the in-group feel threatened they will readily engage in social conflict. A core principle of Social Identity Theory is that ones social identity is no t fixed and cannot predict ones behaviour. Instead, the context and the in-groups salience in the context decides which aspect of an individuals identity is influential in a situation. According to Social Identity Theory, individuals are more inclined to identify with a certain social group if they feel uncertain. Support for this claim comes from McGregor, Reeshma and So-Jin (2008). In their study, participants were required to describe personal conflicts which were caused by unresolved personal problems (uncertainty task). In an attempt to assess out-group derogation, Canadian participants read statements which were critical of Canada, written by a foreign person. The extent to which the Canadian participants disliked and disagreed with the foreigners statement was measured, providing an index of out-group derogation. Additionally, each participant completed a measure of structure requirement. McGregor, Reeshma and So-Jin (2008) found that individuals who sought structure and clar ity were more likely to show out-group derogation after completing the uncertainty task. However, this research used participants from a Western country the same results may not have been generated if Eastern participants took part in the study. The assumptions from these results cannot be generalised to people from different cultures. It can be argued that Social Identity Theory is effective in its claim that people have a biased perception of their own social group compared to other groups, that is, explaining in-group bias. Evidence of this can be seen in the results of Mullen, Brown and Smiths (1992) study into the in-group bias hypothesis. Further support of the claim that identity processes underlie the in-group bias is a report illustrating that members of a social group have higher self-esteem after engaging in discriminatory behaviour (Rubin Hewstone, 1998). Rubin and Hewstone (1998) demonstrate that people show an intergroup distinction to feel good about themselves and the social group which they identify with (Brown, 2000). Brown, Maras, Masser, Vivian and Hewstone (2001) observed that English passengers on a ferry had been refused travel by the actions of French fishermen the out-group and so displayed generally less favourable attitudes towards French people. This supports Social Identity Theorys social comparison concept, in that the English passengers identified so strongly with their national group that they viewed the French in a negative light which in turn, resulted in them retaining their self-esteem. However, Social Identity Theory does have a number of issues which have proved problematic when trying to account for group influence. The theory assumes that a positive social identity is based on positive intergroup comparisons (Brown, 2000). It does make sense to assume that there should be a positive correlation between the strength of group identification and the level of in-group bias. This hypothesis has been tested over the years and still remains of interest to psychologists worldwide (Brown, 2000). Subsequent psychological studies investigating this correlation have shown little support for Social Identity Theory. According to Brown (2000), 14 studies were analysed and the overall correlation between group identification and in-group bias was +0.08, and while 64% of correlations were positive, the mean correlation was not very strong (+0.24). It can be argued, however, that this correlation hypothesis was not actually stated by Tajfel and Turner (1979) when they were develo ping the Social Identity Theory. It is clear from Social Identity Theory that people are motivated to have an in-group bias by the need to see themselves, and the group they identify, within a positive light. Thus, it can be assumed there is a causal link between intergroup distinction and self-esteem. Abrams and Hogg (1988) summarised this concept positive in-group differentiation leads to increased self-esteem and people with low self-esteem show more differentiation in order to boost levels of self-esteem. Social Identity Theory is essentially a theory relating to group differentiation, that is, how members of a specific in-group make this group distinctive from, and better than, an out-group. Therefore, groups which see themselves as similar should be keen to show intergroup differentiation (Brown, 1984). This hypothesis has been tested vigorously over the years with different results. Some studies have generated results which contradict Social Identity Theorys hypothesis Jett en, Spears and Manstead (1996) found that groups that viewed themselves to hold similar attitudes and equivalent status showed more intergroup attraction and less bias then dissimilar groups (Brown, 2000). However, some studies support Social Identity Theory as they have found that intergroup similarity does lead to intergroup differentiation especially if both groups are extremely similar (White Langer, 1999). The concept of social identity as described by Social Identity Theory could be altered by way of having a greater greater acknowledgement of the diversity of social groups that can represent ones social identity. Self-Categorisation Theory also focuses on the concept of intergroup differentiation as a function of identity (TaÃ…Å ¸demir, 2011). Self-Categorisation Theory is seen as a cognitive theory of behaviour within intergroup contexts and offers explanations about the cognitive processes underlying an individuals self-categorisation and intergroup differentiation processes (Turner, 1999). The theory is seen to be a more elaborate, extended version of the original Social Identity Theory (TaÃ…Å ¸demir, 2011). Turner et al. (1987) argue that Self-Categorisation Theory deals with the social-cognitive basis of intergroup behaviour. Self-Categorisation Theory explains how people form a self-identity in terms of the social categories which they belong to. This also leads to people discriminating between their own category members and people in other categories. The meta-contrast principle explains this process. The meta-contrast principle explains that any number of individuals in a cert ain situation are likely to categorise themselves as a social group when they view differences amongst each other less than the differences between themselves and others in the same situation (Turner, 1985). For that reason, when inter-group differences are more stark than intra-group differences (high meta-contrast ratio), it is believed that people define themselves based on their membership of social groups and they differentiate between the in-group and out-group (Turner, Oakes, Haslam McGarty, 1994). Self-Categorisation Theory states that when individuals identify with a social group, they experience depersonalisation. That is, they perceive every member of their group as interchangeable on a certain level (Turner et al., 1957). Self-categorisation cognitively assimilates the individual to the in-group prototype and so depersonalises self-conception (Hogg and Terry, 2001). Therefore, it is assumed that each group member, including the individual themselves, share the same valu es and morals and so they tend to adhere to group norms (Hogg and Reid, 2006). According to Hogg and Terry (2001), this transformation of self-identity is the process which underlies group phenomena as it brings self-identification in line with the relevant in-group prototype in a certain context. Many psychologists, such as Simon (2004) and Deaux (1993) have challenged this assumption of depersonalisation. A study was conducted by Swann, Gomez, Seyle, Morales and Huici (200) who found a contradiction to the assumption of depersonalisation. In their study, individuals who felt their personal and social identities were linked did not adhere to the norms of the in-group. Instead, they engaged in rebellious behaviour to protect their group even when their identity was threatened. Self-Categorisation Theory promotes the idea that when people self-categorise themselves, they tend to think of themselves more as a member of a social group, rather than as individuals. This includes them bel ieving that they share the same characteristics associated with their group and they behave in ways that they feel members of their group should act. This process is called self-stereotyping (Mackie, Smith and Ray, 2008). As result of this, self-categorisation increases similarity in the in-group. This is because every member of the social group takes on attributes which are seen as characteristic of the group and so every member develops identical qualities. One could argue, therefore, that Self-Categorisation Theory provides an insight into the fact that the group has become part of ones self. Support of this comes from a study by Smith and Henry (1996) who found that group members perceive themselves as like their social group. Although both theories, Self Identity Theory and Self-Categorisation Theory, are different, one could ague that they are similar to an extent. This is because both theories explore how identities are internalised and are used by individuals to define themselves. However, there are several differences between Social Identity Theory and Self-Categorisation Theory and the way in which they account for group influence. Self-Categorisation Theory focuses more on the cognitive processes of categorisation in a social context whereas Social Identity Theory offers a more discursive approach. Discursive psychologists have been critical of Social Identity Theory over the years. They criticise the theorys assumption that group conflict and differentiation is caused by a worldwide psychological process. Additionally, they feel that the theory is limited as it does not have ecological validity since much of the research into the theory is conducted in Western cultures. There has been an intercultu ral study conducted by Wetherell (1996) who found that children who come from other cultural backgrounds do not discriminate between groups, unlike North American children. Self-Categorisation Theory does not place as much emphasis on the role of self-esteem, unlike Social Identity Theory. Social Identity Theory emphasises the process of self-categorisation into a group and Self-Categorisation Theory emphasises the process of self-stereotyping and identifying oneself based on a social group. According to Taylor and Moghaddam (1994), Self-Categorisation Theory ignores socio-structural factors and is devoid of the passion involved in real-life conflicts. The theory describes humans in the image of thinking machines. Therefore, one contrast between Social Identity Theory and Self-Categorisation Theory is that the latter can be criticised for not paying enough attention to motivational and affective issues. One flaw of Self-Categorisation Theory is that it concentrates on identity forma tion in adults but no attention has been given to the development of identity in infants. There has however been research into this, using the main principles of Self-Categorisation Theory and applying it to children (Barrett, Wilson and Lyons, 1999). One could therefore argue that Self-Categorisation Theory is not efficient when it comes to explaining group influence on children. A success of Social Identity Theory is that other psychologists have used its principles in an attempt to explain extremist social movements. Reicher, Haslam and Rath (2008) explained how the ideas promoted by Social Identity Theory were able to explain Nazism. In conclusion, it is clear that both theories share similarities, but there are also a number of differences between the two. Self-Categorisation Theory has a more cognitive approach to group influence whereas Social Identity Theory has a more discursive approach. Further research into Social Identity Theory could involve people from Eastern countries to give the theory more ecological validity as currently, the majority of studies have used Western participants. Self-categorisation theory focuses too much on the formation of identity and group influence in adults and so more research could be done on children to see if the same assumptions apply.

The Theme of Justice in King Lear Essay examples -- King Lear essays

The Theme of Justice in King Lear      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Many themes are evident in King Lear, but perhaps one of the most prevalent relates to the theme of justice.   Shakespeare has developed a tragedy that allows us to see man's decent into chaos.   Although Lear is perceived as "a man more sinned against than sinning" (p.62), the treatment of the main characters encourages the reader to reflect on the presence or lack of justice in this world.   The characters also vary in their inclination to view the world from either a fatalistic or moralistic point of view, depending on their beliefs about the presence or absence of a higher power.   The theme of justice in relation to higher powers can be illustrated from the perspective of King Lear, Gloucester, and Edgar.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   When reading King Lear, it is helpful to understand the Elizabethan "Chain of Being" in which nature is viewed as order. Rosenblatt (1984) states that there was a belief in   an established hierarchy within the universe.   Everything had its own relative position beginning with Heaven, the Divine Being, and the stars and planets which are all above. On earth the king is next, then the nobles, on down to the peasantry.   Holding the lowest position were the beggars and lunatics and finally, the animals.   Interrupting this order is unnatural.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   King Lear's sin was that he disrupted this chain of being by relinquishing his throne.   By allowing his daughters and their husbands to rule the kingdom, the natural order of things was disturbed.   His notion that he can still be in control after dividing the kingdom is a delusion.   According to Elizabethan philosophy, it wou... ...the universal conflict that members of society have always had in understanding their fate in this world.    Works Cited and Consulted Bradley, A.C. "King Lear." 20Lh Century Interpretations of King Lear. Ed. Jane Adelman. New Jersev; Prentice-Hall, 1978. Colie, Rosalie. Some Faces of King Lear. Ed. R. Colie & F.T. Flahiff. UniversitV of Toronto Press, 1994. Curry, Walter. Shakespeare s Philosophical Patterns. London: Mass Peter  Ã‚   Smith, 1968.  Ã‚   Hunter, Robert G. Criticism on Shakespeare s Tragedies.. University of Georgia Press, 1996. Matthews, Richard. "Edmund's Redemption in King Lear". Shakespeare Quarterly. Winter, 19q5. pps. 25-29. Shakespeare, William. King Lear. Harcourt Brace Jovanovich Canada Inc. Toronto. 1990. Snyder, Susan. "King Lear and the Prodigal Son." Shakespeare Quarterly. Autumn 1966. pps. 361-369.

Shakespeares Sonnets :: Sonnet essays

Shakespeare's Sonnets      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Shakespeare's sonnets, as poems, have been obscured by the enormous amount of speculation, much of it unjustified, that has grown up around the problems presented by the dedication.   The following sonnet is commonly grouped with 125 others that are believed to have been written to a much admired young man, who was Shakespeare's junior in both years and social status.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The form in which the poem is written is often referred to as Shakespearean or English form.   As in most of Shakespeare's sonnets the argument proceeds by quatrains.   Each quatrain presents an idea in itself.   The poet in the first quatrain bewails his own lot; in the second contrasts that lot with other men's; in the third, thinking of his beloved friend, he rises like the lark that â€Å"sings hymns at heaven's gate†; and in the couplet his happiness is generalized in a final contrast.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In the first line the poet speaks of himself as being out of luck, and/or money and not well received by his fellow man.   He has taken to crying about his social ostracism in line two.   In an attempt to clarify for himself why he is in such a state he â€Å" troubles† heaven with his â€Å"bootless† or useless cries.   But as the poet has made clear heaven turns a deaf ear and no response is forthcoming.   Again he becomes introspective and curses his fate.   This first quatrain has given us an image of a grown man â€Å"down and out† if you will, who is accepting no responsibility for his life's station.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   By the second quatrain the poet has taken to wishing he were more hopeful. He wants to be more popular with his peers and he desires the literary skill, â€Å" art†, and intellectual prowess, â€Å"scope†, of other men.   It is almost humorous to think that Shakespeare, at one time, wished to be a better writer.  Ã‚   Even that which most delights the poet no longer stays the pain he is feeling.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   All is not lost, however.   The third quatrain offers our poet hope.   He is almost   to the point of despising himself when suddenly salvation finds him.   By some chance he thinks of his love (be that love male or female we know not). These thoughts overwhelm him with joy.   His whole mood becomes â€Å"like the lark at break of day†.   In short, he is uplifted.   To show just how happy the poet has become he gives us a final contrast in the closing couplet.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   For thy sweet love rememb'red such wealth brings   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   That then I scorn to change my state with kings.

Economics Elasticity Essay -- Price Elasticity of Demand

Businesses know that they face demand curves, but rarely do they know what these curves look like. Yet sometimes a business needs to have a good idea of what part of a demand curve looks like if it is to make good decisions. If Rick's Pizza raises its prices by ten percent, what will happen to its revenues? The answer depends on how consumers will respond. Will they cut back purchases a little or a lot? This question of how responsive consumers are to price changes involves the economic concept of elasticity. Elasticity is a measure of responsiveness. Two words are important here. The word "measure" means that elasticity results are reported as numbers, or elasticity coefficients. The word "responsiveness" means that there is a stimulus-reaction involved. Some change or stimulus causes people to react by changing their behavior, and elasticity measures the extent to which people react. The most common elasticity measurement is that of price elasticity of demand. It measures how much consumers respond in their buying decisions to a change in price. The basic formula used to determine price elasticity is: If price increases by 10%, and consumers respond by decreasing purchases by 20%, the equation computes the elasticity coefficient as -2. The result is negative because an increase in price (a positive number) leads to a decrease in purchases (a negative number). Because the law of demand says it will always be negative, many economists ignore the negative sign, as we will in the following discussion. An elasticity coefficient of 2 shows that consumers respond a great deal to a change in price. If, on the other hand, a 10% change in price causes only a 5% change in sales, the elasticity coefficient .. ...tical supply curve. For example, if on December 1 the price of apples doubles, there will be minimal effect on the number of apples available to the consumer. Producers cannot make adjustments until a new growing season begins. In the short run, producers can use their facilities more or less intensively. In the apple example, they can vary the amounts of pesticides, and the amount of labor they use to pick the apples. Finally, in the long run not only can producers change their facilities, but they can leave the industry or new producers may enter it. In our apple example, new orchards can be planted or old ones destroyed. Source Consulted Vitali Bourchtein "The Principles of Economics Textbook: An Analysis of Its Past, Present & Future" May 2011 Web 15 May 2015. http://www.stern.nyu.edu/sites/default/files/assets/documents/con_042988.pdf

Regression Analysis and Marks

BRUNEL UNIVERSITY Master of Science Degree examination Specimen Exam Paper 2005-2006 EC5002: Modelling Financial Decisions and Markets EC5030: Introduction to Quantitative Methods Time allowed: 1. 5 hours Answer all of question 1 and at least two other questions 1. COMPULSORY Provide brief answers to all the following: (a) A sample of 20 observations corresponding to the model: Y = + X + u, gave the P P P following data: (X X)2 = 215:4, (Y Y )2 = 86:9, and (X X)(Y Y ) = 106:04. Estimate . 5 marks) (b) Prove that r2 = byx bxy , where byx is the least-squares (LS) slope in the regression of Y on X , bxy is the LS slope in the regression of X on Y , and r is the coe? cient of correlation between X and Y . (5 marks) (c) Present four alternative in†¡ ation/unemployment regressions. (5 marks) (d) Give one reason for autocorrelated disturbances. (5 marks) (e) Explain how we might use the Breusch-Godfrey statistic to test estimated residuals for serial correlation. (5 marks) (f) The fol lowing regression equation is estimated as a production function for Q: lnQ = 1:37 + 0:632 lnK + 0:452 lnL, cov(bk ; bl ) = 0:055; 0:257) (0:219) where the standard errors are given in parentheses. Test the hypothesis that capital (K ) and labor (L) elasticities of output are identical. (5 marks) Continued (Turn over) 1 ANSWER TWO QUESTIONS FROM THE FOLLOWING: 2. (a) Economic theory supplies the economic interpretation for the predicted relationships between nominal (in†¡ ation) uncertainty, real (output growth) uncertainty, output growth, and in†¡ ation. Discuss †¦ve testable hypotheses regarding bidirectional causality among these four variables. (25 marks) + yt b) An investigator estimates a linear relation for German output growth (yt ): yt = 1 + ut , t = 1850; : : : ; 1999. The values of †¦ve test statistics are shown in Table 1: Discuss the results. Is the above equation correctly speci†¦ed? (10 marks) 3. (a) i) Show how various examples of typical hyp otheses †¦t into a general linear framework: Rb = r, where R is a (q k) matrix of known constants, with q < k, b is the (k 1) least-squares vector, and r is a q -vector of known constants. ii) Show how the least-squares estimator (b) of about . an be used to test various hypotheses iii) â€Å"The test procedure is then to reject the hypothesis Rb = r if the computed F value exceeds a preselected critical value† Discuss. (20 marks) (b) The results of least-squares estimation (based on 30 quarterly observations) of the regression of the actual on predicted interest rates (three-month U. S. Treasury Bills) were as follows: rt = 0:24 + 0:94 rt + et ; RSS = 28:56; (0:86) (0:14) where rt is the observed interest rate, and rt is the average expectation of rt held at the end of the preceding quarter.FiguresX parentheses are estimated standard errors. in X (rt r )2 = 52. The sample data on r give rt =30 = 10, According to the rational expectations hypothesis expectations are unbi ased, that is, the average prediction is equal to the observed realization of the variable under investigation. Test this claim by reference to announced predictions and to actual values of the rate of interest on three-month U. S. Treasury Bills. (Note: In the above equation all the assumptions of the classical linear regression model are satis†¦ed). 15 marks) Continued (Turn over) 2 4. (a) What are the assumptions of the classical linear regression model? (10 marks) (b) Prove that the variance-covariance matrix of the (k 1) least-squares vector b is: var(b) = 2 (X 0 X) 1 , where 2 is the variance of the disturbances and X is the (n k) matrix of the regressors. (15 marks) b (c) In the two-variable equation: Yi = a+bXi , i = 1; : : : ; n show that cov(a; b) = 2 X= X)2 . (10 marks) X (X 5. (a) Explain how we might use White statistic to test for the presence of heteroscedasticity in the estimated residuals. 10 marks) (b) A speci†¦ed equation is Y = X +u, with E(u) = 0 and E (uu0 ) = ; where =diagf 2 ; : : : ; 1 Derive White’ correct estimates of the standard errors of the OLS coe? cients. s (15 marks) (c) Explain how we might test for ARCH e ¤ects? (10 marks) 2 2g . 3 Table 1. Test statistic Value of the test p-value White heteroscedasticity test 50. 72 0. 00 Box-Pierce Statistic on 82. 263 0. 00 Squared Residuals Jarque-Bera statistic 341. 754 0. 00 ARCH test 65. 42 0. 00 Ramsey test statistic 39. 74 0. 00 4

Adam Smith`s American Dream: Of desire and debt by Peter C. Whybrow

The American dream is a complex notion that embodies traditions, social and personal values of people. This concept is closely connected with historical and economic development of America, its liberation movement and economic changes. Explaining the American dream it is possible to single out social, personal and economic dimensions that determine this concept. In the book â€Å"American Mania: When More Is Not Enough†, P. C. Whybrow tries to explain outcomes and consequences of the American dream for the entire population and a burden of debt faced by many Americans.Taking into account economic perspectives, American dream means opportunities for everyone to become rich and prosperous in spite of his background and origin. From the very beginning of American colonization period people see the continent as a special place where there is plenty of opportunity for someone to become wealthy. Today, it is possible to define the American dream from different perspectives, but in g eneral: the American dream is the idea that through persistence, hard work and self-determination people can achieve prosperity and high social status.This notion has created workaholic cults based on principles of the American dream. Following Whybrow (2005); â€Å"A polyglot nation of prodigious energy, we are held together by dreams of material progress† (p. 22). Consumerism has a great impact on the notion the American Dream. After the period of the Depression the reforms in the marketplace not only produced double-digit growth but also enabled ordinary citizens to nurture dreams and social networks that challenged official discourse and conventions through millions of daily commercial transactions.People received a chance to earn more and buy expensive goods. Their buying habits were transformed and became necessities. The workaholic cult makes the realization of American Dream simpler because new consumers created great demand for goods. A new version of capitalism bega n evolving in which creativity was not just perennial but constant, in which rapid-fire innovation and continuous improvement were the norm. Cultural changes had a great impact on the workaholic cult and customer wants.This process which took place in 1960s resulted in the development of the creative sector as an integral part of the American dream. Educational establishments were places where human creativity was cultivated and could flourish. Millions of Americans rather quickly acquired a steady job, a car, and a big house, and debts. Most of them had tried to achieve social mobility but failed limited by gender and racial prejudices, lack of education and financial support. Free-market capitalism supported (supports) a financial burden of struggling propositions.On the one hand, economic development led to increased possibilities of education and the opening up of a greater variety of life chances, but these chances were minor in contrast to high class opportunities. Also, rapid population growth of poor classes increased burden on the financial resources and social provisions reducing buying potential of a particular individual from poor regions. The ideas of prosperity enslaved many Americans who tried to test the American dream and achieve higher social status. Also, these ideas are heated by inequalities between the rich minority and the poor majority.Stressing the need to meet basic needs as the primary driving force towards development, sometimes imaginatively termed the basic needs approach, emphasizes that health and education are motors for productivity and that the basic needs of all sectors must be met. Today, the differences between middle class families and poor are inevitable supported by social and economic constraints and self consciousness of people. Following Whybrow â€Å"The scramble for â€Å"the dream† demands a lengthened workday, diminished sleep, continuous learning, unusual energy, and a high tolerance for financial insecu rity.To be â€Å"successful† is to be a multi-tasking dynamo† (Whybrow, 2005 p. 23). An American without a car and big house is an outsider, who is unable to settle his life. For this reason, millions of Americans take loans in order to meet the established criteria of prosperity. The main problem of Americans is that they spend more than they earn. This problem leads to large debts and psychological problems caused by hard working and financial pressure. The author explains that the debts and financial burden is a direct result of heavy advertising and fashion popularizing luxurious life style and prosperity.The author gives the following example of ‘modern’ advertisements: â€Å"t he photographs highlight the vehicle’s interior, a rich brown leather interior. â€Å"Think of it as chocolate, as another sweet spot in your life,† is the drift of the spin-doctor's advice† (Whybrow, 2005 p. 21). There is a false need fabricated by media an d advertisers popularizing luxurious life style and fashion. Most people become enslaved to the workplace prisoners, because they have to meet the highest possible standards established by media and society.The other problem is that people's occu ¬pations or market positions have abso ¬lutely no bearing on their self-understanding or interpretation of their social world and neither has any relation to their individual or collective actions, which are quite unpredictable on the basis of either. Social pressure is the main cause of financial debts and ‘free-will slavery’. â€Å"Many Fortune 500 companies, once considered havens of lifetime employment, have transformed themselves into profit-driven workaholic cults’(Whybrow, 2005 p. 22).If anything explains the goals people pursue it is the social conditioning they receive, high social classes are proud and seek power, the ordinary man is timid and seeks security. Most people do not understand that upward mobil ity is practically impossible for working class children and immigrants, because they cannot enter Universities and pay for their education. Also, â€Å"manic† is caused by racism and feminism organized via institutional frameworks especially within the state as part of the disciplinary power of state agencies like the police, but which is subject to ongoing contestations.Whybrow cites the example of a working mother who is enslaved and has no time for her daughter and family. The author comments that â€Å"It is the promise of special gifts and a magical holiday that finally proves convincing and, finishing the call, the mother sighs to herself and turns to reading† (Whybrow, 2005 p. 21). Most female employees are viewed as mothers and wives which create a glass ceiling for most of them, and force them to work hard for years to prove their professionalism and high level of responsibility.Also, the author underlines the role of technology and innovations in life of Ame ricans and their dreams. The great layer of information and varieties of technology become available now, but the present day situation is marked by such phenomenon as â€Å"technology stress†, which means that all technological advantages society is craving for are nothing more than ephemerally. In sum, the American dream and false social values resulted in the workaholic cult and financial burden for many Americans. Social and economic uncertainty creates new tensions while reinforcing existing ones.The basic principle of this process is that in social process systems, prosperity are interrelated with the human or social aspects. The basic social and economic processes such as competition, conflict, accommodation and assimilation lead to debts and financial pressure. However a consistent pattern is the great gulf that separates the rich from the poor, and the central role of the state in articulating the relationship between them. References 1. Whybrow, P. C. (2005).  "Adam Smith`s American Dream: Of Desire and Debt† American Mania: When More Is Not Enough. W. Norton & Company. pp. 21-48.

Topshop Singapore

It has about 300 tortes in the United Kingdom and over 100 international stores worldwide including Singapore. It launched in 1964 and is considered the first fast fashion brand in the history of fashion. The goal is to produce catwalk trends as fast and cheap as possible. In this report, our group conducted a survey about Tops to find out its target market and the perspective of these target market towards the brand. We basically asked people around school and friends around Singapore to answer this survey. We were able to asked 74 people in total to share their perception towards the brand plus basic information about them.We will be explaining the results in different segments and some findings about the brand. Consumer Demographics Tops appeals to students and professionals which can range from 16-30 years old. The line mainly focuses on women who are not yet married with the income range of SAG 12,000 to 62,000 per year. Target audience is young fashion-conscious ladies on a bud get (Perez, 2013). It can also target older group ranging from 31 to early ass since Tops targets women who cannot be defined by her age but instead her attitude (Perez, 2013). Consumer Chirography's Tops targets women who are addicted to fashion.According to Perez (2013), Tops targets two segments from the 8 segments of Val's II, which are achievers and experiences. Experiences spends a big amount of their income on fashion, entertainment and social life. They like looking good and having nice possessions. While achievers on the other hand are active on purchasing. They like showing their shows why they like shopping with their friends rather than their families. Regular consumers of Tops often aims to have a unique style which are influenced by trends and the current weather. They often go to Tops to seek for the latest rends so they can be ahead of the game.Some of them may not only have the love for fashion but also for music, film and food too. They love to shop for the latest fashion trends almost every month and opt for the unique not a specific style. Consumer Perception of Brand According to the survey that we did recently about Tops, Singapore residences are aware of the brand and most of them have bought something from Tops, although not a lot of them remains as a regular consumer of the brand due to some circumstances. Though, they still find Tops affordable and stylish, most of them onto consider it as their go-to brand when shopping for clothing.They're somehow in between depending on the products available up for grabs. It is considered as an affordable luxury brand and a major trendsetter for the fashion world. Page 10 Competitors Since Tops is a fast fashion brand, it has many competitors like Forever 21, H, Berserk, Starvations, Ezra and many other more. These competitors offer almost the same thing from price, place, and promotion. These brands gives consumers more range of products which they often compare and can steal customers from Tops. Singapore residences often shops more in Forever 21 and H since They offer almost the same thing so consumer tend to go for the cheaper. Although, some consumer still sticks with Tops when they opt for the latest forward- thinking trends while some who wants more ranges shops in both. Other brands such as Marc by Marc Jacobs and Juicy Couture can still be a competitor of Tops even though they are breech brands since it gives consumers more options. Customers' Opinion of the Marketing Mix Base on their ratings, Tiptop's store locations here in Singapore are placed on the eight area where shoppers usually demand for it.The variety of products that they offer are still satisfying for consumers and the quality of the products still remains remarkable. Although, customer are often not that satisfied with the services Tops offers in their stores and its merchandising. Also, the price of the products they sell are still a bit high considering that their mainline is affordable fashion for y oung women. They are not doing a very good Job on their promotions as well here in Singapore since not everyone knows about the promotions they do, like their latest collaboration with Car Delivering.The promotion of the brand here in Singapore is not as wide as their promotions in the USA or other countries. Tops consumers enjoy both in-store and online privileges. Page 1 1 Conclusion Many fast fashion brands are in competition with Tops, and this is a big threat for the brand. Although, Tops is still unique and is still growing as time passes by, status. However, the only draw back within the brand is its failure to provide prices that accommodate their large student market (Miraculous, 2009). As for recommendations, Tops should lower their prices to earn more customer so that hey would go back.

Global Village

Global Village is a term closely associated with Marshall McLuhan,[1] popularized in his books The Gutenberg Galaxy: The Making of Typographic Man (1962) and Understanding Media (1964). McLuhan describes how the globe has been contracted into a village by electric technology[2] and the instantaneous movement of information from every quarter to every point at the same time [3]. In bringing all social and political functions together in a sudden implosion, electric speed has heightened human awareness of responsibility to an intense degree [4]. Today, the term â€Å"Global Village† is mostly used as a metaphor to describe the Internet and World Wide Web. [citation needed] On the Internet, physical distance is even less of a hindrance to the real-time communicative activities of people, and therefore social spheres are greatly expanded by the openness of the web and the ease at which people can search for online communities and interact with others that share the same interests and concerns. Therefore, this technology fosters the idea of a conglomerate yet unified global community. 5] Due to the enhanced speed of communication online and the ability of people to read about, spread, and react to global news very rapidly, McLuhan says this forces us to become more involved with one another from countries around the world and be more aware of our global responsibilities. Similarly, web-connected computers enable people to link their web sites together. This new reality has implications for forming new sociological struct ures within the context of culture. Criticisms There is some disagreement in the consideration of the Internet as promoting the idea of a global village. Modern theorist Glenn Willmott says McLuhan's idea of the Global Village is a cliched phrase that does not take into account the corruption of the Internet by government and corporate censorship and control over information on the web (news and entertainment information in particular). [7] The notion of the digital divide also signifies why the idea of global village is the problem is because we have more technical things these days. The idea of a Global Village is problematic; not all people are connected to the Internet equally (notably the economically disadvantaged) and those that lack web access are excluded from global news and participating in online communities, then modern communication technology does not truly promote a Global Village as McLuhan described it for all people. Communication media can also be used to divide people within the sphere of online communities. For example, scholars Marshall Van Alstyne and Erik Brynjolfsson offer a contrasting view in their paper, â€Å"Electronic Communities: Global Village or Cyberbalkans? † [8] They say that although modern communication technologies have the potential to create the unified communities reminiscent of McLuhan's idea of the Global Village, they also threaten to balkanize or fragment communities by allowing people to easily segregate themselves into geographic and special interest groups. From Global Village to Global Theater No chapter in Understanding Media, or later books, contains the idea that the Global Village and the electronic media create unified communities. In fact, in an interview with Gerald Stearn [9], McLuhan says that it never occurred to him that uniformity and tranquillity were the properties of the Global Village. The Global Village insures maximal disagreement on all points because it creates more discontinuity and division and diversity under the increase of the village conditions. The Global Village is far more diverse, full of fighting. After the publication of Understanding Media, McLuhan starts to use the term Global Theater to emphasise the changeover from consumer to producer, from acquisition to involvement, from job holding to role playing, stressing that there is no more community to clothe the naked specialist [10]. Global Village (Dubai) From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Jump to: navigation, search Global Village is located in Dubailand, the world's largest tourism, leisure and entertainment project. Global Village is the region’s first premier cultural, entertainment and shopping destination, celebrates diverse ultures, art, theater, commerce and cuisine from around the world and welcomes more than four million guests per year. Each season, Global Village delivers a wide variety of pioneering new shows and attractions in the heart of Dubailand. Covering an area of 17. 2 million sq. ft. The new Global Village at Dubailand will have extensive facilities and features. The construction of this proje ct was started in 2003 and is now almost complete with two or three projects that are expected to be completed by 2011. Contents | |1 Description | |2 Entertainment and Activity Zone | |3 Guinness World Record Pavilion | |4 New Location | |5 2008-2009 season | |5. Pavilions participating in the 2008-2009 season | |5. 1. 1 Asia | |5. 1. 2 Eastern Asia | |5. 1. 3 Middle Eastern Asia | |5. 1. 4 Africa | Description The Global village has seen a great success since it has been launched in 1996 and till today it is attracting millions of visitors each year. In the beginning, the global village was located in Dubai shopping festival but now Global village has moved towards its new location in Dubailand. Where it is attracting millions of visitors each year, The new location of Global village in Dubailand is almost completed with the remaining work is in final stages. For each of the past ten years, the rapid growth of Global Village has put tremendous strain on its facilities and on the roads infrastructure around where it has been held. The Global Village is the perfect forum for the countries of the world to showcase their heritage, culture, architecture, arts and crafts, cuisine, merchandise and unique lifestyle. Participating countries have a choice of large and small pavilions, which they can design to their own specifications. The Global village had made its first beginning on the Creekside in 1996, where we had a few kiosk opposite to the Dubai Municipality. Then it shifted to Oud Metha area near Wafi city complex there it stayed for 5 years but finally it could not accommodate the demand from both exhibitors and visitors and then it turned in Dubai shopping festival which has remained its home for past 3 years and ultimately Global village location has shifted Dubailand. In the year 1996 there was a first event launched by global village,then in 1997, the Global Village hosted 18 country pavilions, which have risen to 30 countries during the 2005 event, which remained open for two and a half months from 12 January to 31st March 2005 and attracted a millions of visitor that year. During this year Global village added 15 more pavilions of Australia, Austria, Cambodia, Canada, Greece, Iraq, Japan, Nepal, New Zealand, Nigeria, Poland, Qatar, Kyrgyz Republic, Switzerland and United Kingdom. followed by 2006-2007 that hosted pavilions of 50 countries and attracted a record 4. million visitors. Shopping grew by 11 per cent, specific pavilion visits by 63 per cent and comparative shopping by 52 per cent over the previous season. According to a survey the total visitor spend amount reached to Dh600 million. Entertainment and Activity Zone The entertainment events will include the World Culture Stage, showcasing premiere entertainment from around the world. Fe atured on the lake will be the â€Å"Beach Adrenaline† Jet-Ski Show, which will provide nightly thrills with exciting stunts from a team of internationally awarded jet-ski champions. Additionally, a Lantern Festival (Festival of Lights) an array of specially created Chinese lanterns will beautify the entire park including the entrances and canal to create a wonderful festive ambiance throughout the entire destination. Guinness World Record Pavilion This Pavilion is an innovative concept to feature past world records and a venue to bring in world records in different categories. Where a person can try to break the record for the loudest scream, the fastest text message, or the longest coin spin and many more. New Location The new location of entertainment complex of the Global Village is located on the Emirates Road within the sprawling Dubailand. It is close to the residential development of Arabian Ranches on Exit 37. The Global Village is connected to all emirates of the UAE via an efficient road network. In addition to housing the pavilions of different countries, the Global Village accommodates restaurants, shuttle transport services and a massive parking area. Find Global Village just 10 minutes from the Dubai International Airport and 60 minutes from Abu Dhabi. 008-2009 season This New Year has plenty to offer at Global Village. Bringing a precious opportunity to witness one of the most spectacular international entertainment and cultural events this year, Dubai's Global Village has opened its doors on November 12, 2008 and will remain open for a total of 102 days( closes on February 21st, 2009) just after the end of the Dubai Shopping Festival. In addition it has other attractions to offer its projected 5 million visitors, such as around 40 fun fair rides, Venetian gondolas, rowing boats and a World Culture Stage Pavilions participating in the 2008-2009 season Asia †¢ Pakistan †¢ India †¢ Nepal †¢ Afghanistan †¢ Iran Eastern Asia †¢ China †¢ Philippines †¢ Vietnam †¢ Thailand Middle Eastern Asia †¢ UAE †¢ Yemen †¢ Bahrain †¢ Saudi Arabia †¢ Kuwait †¢ Lebanon †¢ Jordan †¢ Syria †¢ Palestine †¢ Egypt †¢ Morocco †¢ Qatar †¢ Oman Africa †¢ Rwanda †¢ Senegal This tourist attraction has high targets of over 20 million foot visitors to the Village by 2011, when the three permanent phases of the project are due to be completed. Development of an area with 80 high street outlets and a state-of-the-art amusement park will be implemented after this season’s run of Global Village. The project will be finished in 2011, and plans include a 560 room 5 star hotel alongside a 3 star hotel, along with over 1,000 residential units. ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________ ____________________________________ The Global Village The Global Village is a concept that has come of age and is here to stay. It is an international fair festooned with a carnival like atmosphere. Various countries participate and set up their respective pavilions designed to reflect their heritage and culture, Shops are allotted to each pavilion whereby, a country displays its ethnic crafts. Dancers from around the world showcase their talent around the pavilions. Global Village India promises to be a fantastic, mind blowing shopping extravaganza with lots of entertainment thrown in for the entire family. It is a holistic package of entertainment, fun and frolic and shopping with an international flavor. Traditional crafts and folk dances of different countries are woven around the theme of culture and heritage. An ambience, Hitherto unknown, shall be created by marrying different cultures, crafts and cuisines of various countries. Imagine the incredible spectacle of Brazilian Samba dancers, Russian ballet and Egyptian Belly dancers performing alongside Bhangra and Dandia artistes. Handicrafts from countries as diverse as Kenya and Kuwait will be on display. Bohemian crystal from the Czech Republic to exotic Egyptian bead necklaces will please even the most die hard buyers. Specially imparted fireworks will dazzle the night sky each day of the festival. This razzmatazz will definitely enthuse millions of visitors who flock to the Global Village. About India India is one of the fastest growing economies with a growth rate pegged at 8% per annum. It is a dream of every single exhibitor to reap the benefits of this growing economy. Delhi the capital city with a huge population of 13. 5 million is a bastion of high spending power. Global Village will bring this kind of citizenry closer to realizing their dreams. Global Village India offers reasonable priced, limited liability opportunity to handicraft manufacturers, artisans and dealers to visit India, get a feel of opportunities on offer, interact with buyers and sell their wares. A festival of such an international flavor will be incomplete without cuisines from the world over. Italian, Chinese and Arabian delicacies along eith Indian gourmet delights will be irresistible. A carnival like atmosphere shall prevail . Floats depicting cultures and traditions from different countries will go around the village all the time. An International standard Giant Wheel and other exciting rides will be specially imported from Europe to ensure that kids and teenagers have the time of their lives. What with the assortment of handicrafts and allied products available, the Global Village will be preferred destination for Delhi cities and its neighbours. This is the inaugural year of the Global Village. We shall strive to innovate ,adapt and incorporate all the new success in the years to come.