Arvind Pandey Caught in Business Web Essay

Arvind Pandey is a project manager at Al Saba Construction Company in Muscat. It s a flourishing company with several construction projects in Muscat and abroad. It is known for completing projects on time and with high quantity construction. The company’s Chairman is a rich and a highly educated Omani. A German engineer is Arvind’s Vice – President for urban and foreign construction projects. Three months ago, Al Saba had submitted a tender for a major construction project in Kuwait. Its quotation was for $ 25 million. In Kuwait the project was sponsored and announced by a US – based construction company called Fuma. According to Al Saba, their bid of $ 25 million was modest but had included a high margin of profit. On 25 April, Arvind was asked to go to Kuwait to find out from the Fuma project manager the status of their construction proposal. Arvind was delighted to know that Fuma had decided to give his company, (Al Saba) the construction project work. The project meant a lot of effort and money in planning the proposed construction in Kuwait. But before Arvind could tank the Fuma project manager, he was told that their bird should be raised to $ 28 million. Arvind was surprised. He tried to convince the Fuma project manager that his (Arvind company had the bast reputation for doing construction work in a cost effective way. However, he could always raise the bid by $ 3 million. But he wanted to know why he was required to do so. The Fuma manager’s reply was, â€Å"That’s the way we do our business in this part of the world, $ 1 million will go to our Managing Director in the US, I shall get $ 1 million, you, Mr. Pandey, will get $ 1 million in a specified account in Swiss Bank. Arvind asked, â€Å"But why me?† â€Å"So that you never talk about it to any one.† The Fuma Project Manager said. Arvind promised never to leak it out to any one else. And he tried to bargain to raise the bid by $ 2 million. For Arvind was familiar with the practice of â€Å"pay – offs† involved in any such thing. He thought it was against his loyalty to his company and his personal ethics. Arvind promised the Fuma project manager that the bid would be raised to $ 28 million and fresh papers would be put in. He did not want to lose the job. He came back to Muscat and kept trying to figure out how he should place the whole thing before his German Vice President. He obviously was at a loss. Questions: 1.Analyse the reasons for Arvind Pandey’s dilemma. 2.Does Arvind Pandey really face a dilemma? 3.In your view what should Arvind Pandey do? Should he disclose it to his German Vice President? CASE IV Company Accepting a Contract A computer company was negotiating a very large order with a large size corporation. They had a very good track record with this client. In this corporation, five different departments had pooled their requirements and budgets. A committee was formed which had representation from all the departments. The corporation wanted the equipment on a long lease and not outright purchase. Further, they wanted the entire hardware and software form one supplier. This meant that there should be bought – out items from many suppliers since no one supplier could meet all the requirements of supply from its range of products. The corporation provided an exhaustive list of very difficult terms and conditions and pressurized the vendors to accept.The computer company who was finally awarded the contract had agreed to overall terms that were fine as far as their own products were concerned but had also accepted the same terms for the brought – out items. In this case, the bought – out items were to be imported through a letter of credit. The percentage of the bought – out items versus their own manufacture was also very high. One of the terms accepted was that the â€Å"system† would be accepted over a period of 10 days after all the hardware had been linked up and software loaded. The computer company started facing trouble immediately on supply. There were over 100 computers over a distance connected with one another with software on it. For the acceptance tests, it had been agreed that the computer company would demonstrate as a pre-requisite the features they had claimed during technical discussions. Now, as you are aware, if a Hero Honda motorcycle claims 80 km to a litre of petrol, it is under ideal test conditions and if a motorcycle from the showroom were to be tried for this test before being accepted, it would never pass the test. In corporation’s case, due to internal politics, the  corporation persons from one department – who insisted on going exactly by the contract – did not sign acceptance since the â€Å"system† could not meet the ideal test conditions. Further, in a classic case of, â€Å"for want of a horse – shoe, payment for the horse was held up†, the computer company tried to get the system accepted and payment released. The system was so large that at any point of time over a period of 10 days something small or the other always gave problems. But the corporation took the stand that as far as they were concerned the contracts clearly were concerned the contract clearly mentioned that the â€Å"system† had to be tested as a whole and not module by module. Questions: 1.Comment on the terms and conditions placed by the corporation. 2.What factors influenced the computer company’s decision to accept the contract? 3.Was it a win – win agreement? Discuss?

Hamlet Essay

What have you come to understand about the intense human relationships of Hamlet? How has this understanding been affected by the perspectives of others? In you response you should focus on 3 scenes in the play and a range of perspectives. The intense human relationships of Hamlet have been viewed through numerous perspectives yet all have reached the same conclusions. With the exception of just one, the friendship of Hamlet and Horatio, all the relationships are dishonourable, dysfunctional and destined to fail. Being a revenge tragedy it is immediately clear this play is filled with lies, deceit and treachery. The exact time of Hamlet’s composition is unknown, however it is assumed to be between 1599 and 1602. This was a dark, melancholy time in Shakespeare’s life with the death of his father in 1601 and the death of his only son, Hamnet aged 11, in 1596. It is believed that these events had a significant impact on the writing of Hamlet as the play is heavy with death and has a great similarity with this son’s name. Some perspectives that have been adopted to view and understand the intense human relationships of Hamlet are a religious, psychoanalytic and feminist perspective. When Shakespeare first wrote Hamlet he lived in a strongly religious society where people could be fined for not attending church. Therefore, at this time in history many people had a religious attitude and perspective on the play. The psychoanalytical perspective focuses on the unconscious mind and how it dictates behaviour. This perspective became popular when Sigmund Freud, a well-known psychologist, began developing his psychoanalytic theory, The Oedipus Complex, in 1897. The feminist perspective is often centred around strong women and became particularly popular in the 1950’s being a post world war 2 period. Women were involved in many aspects of the war and made ground in their equality with men. However, when the war ended, women were encouraged to return to their household duties and this sparked much controversy. The family relationship between Hamlet and Gertrude is one of the most intense in the entire play. Their relationship reaches a climax in act 3 scene 4 when Hamlet confronts his mother about her relationship with Claudius and her involvement in the murder of King Hamlet, â€Å"mother, you have my father much offended†. Hamlet sees Gertrude as an adulteress for marrying her husband’s brother two months after his death and believes she is aware that Claudius killed King Hamlet, â€Å"Almost as bad, good mother, As kill a king and marry with his brother†. When exploring this scene from a feminist perspective it can be seen that Gertrude cares deeply for her son yet he scorns her for her recent actions, â€Å"You go not till I set you up a glass where you may see the inmost part of you†. Despite there being no evidence that Gertrude is aware of Claudius’s deed, Hamlet does not trust his mother and this consequently results in his inability to trust other women. The Oedipus Complex comes to the fore when the relationship of these two characters is examined with a psychoanalytical perspective. Freud’s complex suggests that every boy from the age of 3-4 years begins to have unconscious sexual desires for his mother and regards his father as his rival. Through studying this scene from a psychoanalytical perspective it is prominent that Hamlet has an obsession with his mothers sexual relationship with Claudius. He claims that she lives â€Å"In the rank sweat of an enseamed bed†. The scene takes place in Gertrude’s bedroom, which is important as its privacy and intimacy allows Hamlet to express himself fully to his mother and being a place where sexual activity occurs, suggests Hamlets repressed sexual desires. The scene ends with Hamlet possessively demanding her â€Å"but go not to my uncle’s bed† and uses multiple sexual references when he tells her to not let Claudius â€Å"Pinch wanton on your cheek, call you his mouse†. Relating this to the Oedipus complex, Hamlet appears to be more like a jealous lover than a concerned son. Examining act 3 scene 4 from different perspectives gives varied insights into Gertrude and Hamlet’s relationship, yet each perspective deduces that it is a dishonourable relationship with no mutual trust or respect. Another dishonourable family relationship in Hamlet is that between Ophelia and her father Polonius. Polonius manipulates Ophelia for his own benefit, treating her like a tool rather than a person. Their relationships becomes pitiful when she receives orders from her father and responds with â€Å"I shall bey, my lord†, implying that she is at the service of her father. Through the analysis of act 4 scene 5 a deeper understanding can be reached about Ophelia’s relationship with her late father. Following the death of Polonius, Ophelia’s mind becomes unhinged as she drifts into insanity, speaking in songs and rhymes. Considering this scene from a feminists perspective it can be thought that Ophelia went mad with guilt having her desire for Hamlet to kill her father so that they can be together fulfilled. This theory strongly supports the idea that the relationship between Ophelia and Polonius was dysfunctional as she felt she’d never be free to make her own choices until her father was dead. The friendship between Hamlet and Horatio is the only admirable one. Horatio is the one character that Hamlet speaks to openly and confides in. He remains loyal and swears himself to secrecy about the ghost and the pretence of Hamlets madness. He conspires with Hamlet to prove Claudius killed King Hamlet and he stands by him through Ophelia’s death. It is the final scene of the play when the true extent of their friendship is confirmed. Act 5 scene 2 begins with Hamlet confiding in Horatio and reciting the fate of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern to him. This further validates their friendship and Hamlets trust in his loyal friend. The scene draws to a close with Horatio wishing to join Hamlet in death. This selfless declaration and his final words to Hamlet before he dies â€Å"good night sweet Prince, and flights of Angels sing thee to thy rest† convey his everlasting faithfulness to Hamlet. Through examining the friendship of Hamlet and Horatio from the beginning of the play to the end, it is clear that, unlike all the other relationships, there is never a doubt about the sincerity of their friendship. Through the close and critical analysis of Hamlet, you can come to the understanding that all but one of the intense human relationships within the play are dishonourable, dysfunctional and destined to fail. Considering this interpretation in the light of other perspectives the same conclusion can be drawn about the relationships.

A character study of Mr. Darcy up until the end of Volume Two Essay

Mr. Darcy is not a titled nobleman, but he is one of the wealthiest members of the landed gentry, which is the same legal class that the Bennet family belongs to, even though they have much less money. He owns a very large estate in Derbyshire, called Pemberley, and he has a sister named Georgiana, who is more than ten years younger that he is. Mr. Darcy’s aunt is the very wealthy Lady Catherine de Bourgh and he is betrothed to her daughter, Anne. In the beginning of the novel Mr. Darcy is depicted as â€Å"clever,† but also â€Å"haughty, reserved, and fastidious.† When he first appears at the Meryton assembly with Mr. Bingley, he draws everyone’s attention by his, â€Å"fine, tall person, handsome features, noble mien,† and the fact that he has ten thousand pounds per year. However, only half the evening passes before he is â€Å"discovered to be proud, to be above his company,† and denounced as â€Å"having a most forbidding, disagreeable countenance.† We can see how socially inept Mr. Darcy is from the mere fact that he dances only two dances at the Meryton assembly, one with Mrs. Hurst and one with Miss Bingley, even though there is a shortage of male dance partners. He also refuses to be introduced to any other lady, and flatly refuses to dance with Elizabeth, saying, â€Å"she is tolerable, but not handsome enough to tempt me.† He does not even try to make a good impression, as we see where it says that his manners are â€Å"well-bred,† but â€Å"not inviting.† This shows that he is proud, because he does not care what people think of him, and he does not need to care because he is so rich. I also believe that Mr. Darcy’s lack of social graces shows a hint of laziness, in that he cannot be bothered to take the time or trouble to be agreeable, or make a good reputation for himself. However, Charlotte Lucas remarks, â€Å"One cannot wonder that so very fine a young man, with†¦everything in his favour, should think highly of himself†¦He has a right to be proud.† This assessment of Mr. Darcy, in my opinion, somewhat lessens his guilt, because it represents a perspective on wealth that must have been very common in nineteenth-century Britain. Mr. Darcy’s behaviour is certainly not ideal, but it was probably more acceptable then than it would be today. Mr. Darcy is also a great friend of Mr. Bingley’s, and Jane is told that among his friends he is â€Å"remarkably agreeable.† This would suggest that either he is very proud, or, as he says to Elizabeth, â€Å"I have not the talent which some people possess†¦of conversing easily with those I have never seen.† If he is so reserved because he truly has difficulty in conversing with people that he does not know well, his silence could easily be mistaken for pride, but I believe that it is probably due in part to both. We first see that Mr. Darcy is beginning to be attracted to Elizabeth on a visit to Netherfield, and his discovery of this attraction is described as â€Å"mortifying.† He does not want to be associated with someone with so little money, and yet he finds â€Å"her figure to be light and pleasing,† and her face to be â€Å"rendered uncommonly intelligent by the beautiful expression of her dark eyes.† When Elizabeth refuses to dance with Mr. Darcy, she only succeeds in further piquing his interest in her, as shown where it says, â€Å"her resistance had not injured her with the gentleman.† I suspect, from the way Caroline Bingley is always very arch and flirtatious around him, that he has had women chasing him most of his adult life, because of his wealth. Therefore, he must be intrigued by a woman such as Elizabeth who, for all his money, wants nothing to do with him. We begin to see that there is a stark contrast between Mr. Darcy’s curt statements in answer to Miss Bingley whilst writing to his sister, and the long responses he gives Elizabeth, which match her wit and intelligence. This shows how much he likes challenging and being challenged by her sharp mind. When she stays at Netherfieldd to look after Jane, she is relentlessly sharp in her talks with Mr. Darcy, and he finds himself increasingly â€Å"bewitched† by her, enough so that he begins â€Å"to feel the danger of paying Elizabeth too much attention.† During Elizabeth’s stay at Netherfield, we learn a little more about Mr. Darcy’s character. He likes to read, and has a large library at Pemberley. He must feel at least some affection for his sister because his letters â€Å"are generally long,† and in Miss Bingley’s estimation, â€Å"charming.† By making his letters long and carefully worded he shows that he both cares about Georgiana and takes his responsibility for her seriously. This contradicts Elizabeth’s and our perceptions of him as cold and unfeeling. Also, he states that he writes â€Å"rather slowly,† Miss Bingley comments that he writes evenly and Mr. Bingley says that he â€Å"does not write with ease. He studies too much for words of four syllables.† This implies that Mr. Darcy likes to think things through, even when choosing the right word to write. When Elizabeth is naming Mr. Darcy’s faults in order to laugh at him, she mentions vanity and pride, to which he replies, â€Å"Vanity is a weakness indeed. But†¦pride will be always under good regulation.† This is ironic because, in his case, pride is more a flaw than a good quality. However, he also admits that his â€Å"good opinion once lost is lost for ever.† By his own admission he is resentful, which Elizabeth finds to be true when Mr. Wickham tells her how ‘abominably’ Mr. Darcy treated him. The knowledge of his resentfulness also serves to make us dislike him even more. Mr. Wickham is very useful in giving us an impression of Mr. Darcy, whether true or not. In the first volume of the novel, after Mr. Wickham’s story about Mr. Darcy refusing to acknowledge his father’s wishes, and thus impoverishing Mr. Wickham, we see Mr. Darcy as dishonourable, dishonest and resentful. Our prejudice against him is so strong that we accept anything Mr. Wickham says at face value. Mr. Darcy’s ‘abominable’ treatment of Mr. Wickham is one of the reasons that Elizabeth refuses to accept his proposal; it reinforces her opinion of him and proves that he really is too proud. At the Netherfield ball, when Sir William Lucas hints at a â€Å"certain desirable event† taking place, meaning the expected marriage of Jane and Mr. Bingley, Mr. Darcy appears very surprised and worried at the thought. He obviously does not want Mr. Bingley to marry beneath himself, and we later learn from Colonel Fitzwilliam that Mr. Darcy is very pleased with himself for â€Å"having lately saved a friend from†¦a most imprudent marriage.† Mr. Darcy has no right to meddle in the romantic affairs of Jane and Mr. Bingley, and to be so determined that he confiscates Jane’s letters to Mr. Bingley is not something to be easily forgiven. What makes us dislike him even more is that when he proposes to Elizabeth he does not feel any remorse for his actions, and even declares, â€Å"I rejoice in my success.† This shows hypocrisy because he separates Jane and Mr. Bingley on financial grounds, which he has no right to do, and then asks Elizabeth to marry him, even though she is in the same situation as Jane. Mr. Darcy’s proposal to Elizabeth is, in itself, filled with pride and is focused on the negative aspects of the match rather than his love for her. His mode of proposal somewhat resembles the condescending airs of Mr. Collins when he proposes. It does not seem to have occurred to him that Elizabeth might refuse him, as we see where it says, â€Å"his countenance expressed real security.† This proves how proud and arrogant he is, because he believes that if she does not marry him for love, she will marry him for money because she will never receive a ‘better’ offer. He even tells Elizabeth that he likes her against his â€Å"will,†¦reason, and†¦character,† which are hurtful remarks and imply that he does not want to love her but cannot help himself. Mr. Darcy is â€Å"wholly unmoved by any feeling of remorse† for having separated Mr. Bingley from Jane and even says, â€Å"I rejoice in my success.† It is obvious from this cold remark that he has little regard for the feelings of others, which is further emphasised when he seemingly does not care about Mr. Wickham’s condition in life. He says, â€Å"Yes, his misfortunes have been great indeed,† which sounds unfeeling, contemptuous and sarcastic. Mr. Darcy seems to feel the need to justify his feelings for her but also to tell her that he does not want to have those feelings. He is certainly honest, but perhaps a little too honest, and not at all tactful, as we see where he says, â€Å"Could you expect me to rejoice in the inferiority of your connections?† He seems to be intent on laying before Elizabeth everything that is not ideal about her family and connections, which is probably not the best way to make her love him. Mr. Darcy’s letter to Elizabeth, however, shows us just how mistaken and prejudiced against him we really are. Firstly, it lists his reasons for separating Jane and Mr. Bingley. He admits that he did not want them to marry, but he did â€Å"not believe her heart was likely to be easily touched.† He did not think that Jane really did love his friend, and although it was not right of him to intervene, he did not believe that there was enough love to outweigh the material disadvantages of marrying Jane. I also believe that, had Jane been more open about her feelings, and had Mr. Bingley perhaps been more persistent and not allowed himself to be manipulated by Mr. Darcy, the situation would not have arisen. We are also very conscious of â€Å"that total want of propriety† so often shown by many members of the Bennet family – it was very obvious at the Netherfield ball, and Mr. Darcy cannot really be blamed for being appalled by it. That sort of behaviour was not acceptable and those who exhibited it were shunned. If Mr. Darcy married Elizabeth, he would have to put up with having them as in-laws. This shows that Mr. Darcy is proud, but one cannot expect him to want to associate with a family who act disgracefully in public. However, it is also very plausible that he is not as proud as we think, because, despite this, he still wants to marry Elizabeth, which is a circumstance that I do not believe was very common back then. Mr. Darcy’s contempt for Mr. Wickham is also wholly justified, and we learn that he was very tolerant and did do his best to carry out his father’s wishes, even though Mr. Wickham was unworthy of such treatment. This proves that he is honourable, and it is he who has been treated unjustly by Mr. Wickham, when he tried to elope with Georgiana. She told Mr. Darcy of the plan, because she could not â€Å"support the idea of grieving and offending a brother whom she almost looked up to as a father.† Georgiana must have a very strong attachment to Mr. Darcy, because otherwise she would not have done this, so he must be a very kind brother. I believe that although Mr. Darcy is portrayed as proud, critical, arrogant, brutally honest, and may not have the conversational skills that some people do, we are too prejudiced at the beginning of the novel to see his good qualities beneath all of his pride. The letter to Elizabeth provides us with valuable insights into Mr. Darcy’s mind and personality. When we see the letter we realise that most of his actions were justified, and despite his social ineptitude and the occasional error in judgement, he is altogether a good man.

Charles dickens Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Charles dickens - Essay Example Dickens’ uses the setting communicate Nell’s emotions to the reader. Nell’s mood is reflected by the streets and rooftops of London. As Nell keeps her anxious vigil, the window serves as Nell’s peephole into the life of the outside world. The lonely child has no lively companions of her own age and no parents. She spends most of her time waiting for her grandfather’s return form his trips outside the shop. As she gazes on the windows of the houses facing her, she wonders about the lives which go on in those rooms. Nell projects her loneliness on to the setting and wonders â€Å"whether those rooms were as lonesome as that in which she sat.† Her loneliness is further emphasized by her perception that the people living in those rooms do not want her company, as she sees â€Å"them look out and draw in their heads again.† She interprets their failure to communicate with her as a sign of their rejection. In spite of this rejection, the str eet is Nell’s only glimpse of life and she is sorry when night falls and her tableaux of the world comes to an end. She is forced to return to the â€Å"dull† room, in which â€Å"everything was in its place and hadn't moved.† Here again, the room’s setting is used by Dickens to communicate the unchanging routine and boredom of the little girl’s days. ... As Nell looks at the â€Å"crooked stack of chimneys on one of the roofs,† she sees in her imagination the â€Å"ugly faces that were frowning over at her and trying to peer into the room.† This is an example of Dickens’ powerful imagery in his settings. The image of the ugly faces staring disapprovingly at Nell is a metaphor for the threat of bankruptcy and evil hovering over her life in the guise of Daniel Quilp. Dickens also uses the sombre setting to convey to the reader his characteristic criticism of the poor living quarters and the squalid environment of London. In this context, the evil-looking chimney stacks may be seen as a metaphor for the smoke-spewing monster of industrialization. Dickens’ attitude is reflected in Nell’s plea to her grandfather to exchange life in London with a life in the country where they can â€Å"walk through country places, and sleep in fields and under trees† and â€Å"work in open roads or fields.† The dark and gloomy streets of London outside Nell’s window symbolize the dark side of city life. Dickens’ setting in this passage connects to the next chapter in the novel. In the shadows of the street below, Kit lingers, standing guard over his precious Nell. His attention is totally focused on her window. As Nell keeps anxious vigil at her window, Kit keep his own vigil over her. Nell â€Å"is sitting alone at that window,† while Kit remains â€Å"watching in the open street for fear any harm should come to her† (Dickens, Chapter 10). This is a very poignant depiction of Kit’s love for Nell. Dickens cleverly links his setting in this passage in Chapter 9 with the following chapter to move

Social Media Customer Service Tools Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Social Media Customer Service Tools - Essay Example The most common type of stakeholder that command the attention of most businesses are the customers, who may have varied needs, preferences, and interests due to their diverse backgrounds. Until recently, a vast majority of the corporate world embraced formal communication channel to connect with their customers due to the ethical principles and values upheld then (Gibson, 2012).  More often than not, they engaged their esteemed customers over customer toll-free telephone lines, mails, and face-to-face communication that involved verbal conveyance of the message. As time advanced, many companies upgraded to keep abreast of the changing technology using emails to perform customer care services. Although the use of emails as a customer service tool proved to be efficient, the advancement of technology led to the emergence of the social media sites that command great subscription globally with the middle aged not left behind. The introduction of smartphones and other internet-enabled devices has attracted huge interest the recent past, some of whom belonged to the corporate world or are stakeholders in one way or another (Solomon, 2012). Due to the large number of people subscribed to various social media sites, the sharing and dissemination of corporate information has simplified. This has enabled most companies catch up with their customers in the social media pages where consumers can either get information regarding the products and services they use, or may air their grievances in a responsible manner in real time (Carolyn & Parasnis, 2011). According to Gibson (2012), Consumers normally have a myriad of issues that they want sorted by their service or product... This essay approves that with technological advancements in the internet, a number of social media sites have emerged, each competing for the same clientele. In the recent past, the high number of internet users has seen the tremendous growth and popularity of major social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, and, YouTube with most corporates gaining interest in the social media to host their customer service. Social media is arguably the largest marketing forum for any prospective company due to the high number of users. Over the years, the popularity of social media has increased to the extent that even the mainstream media have adopted some of the social media pages for their advertisements and customer services. This report makes a conclusion that with the new trends technological trends especially in information communication technology, customer care service has taken a new dimension commensurate with the current trends. Customer service, being a focal point of every public relations department in the corporate world, has evolved over the years to keep abreast of the technological advancements. Although the launching of most the social media networking sites was with the intention that such sites would enable friends and colleagues to keep one another informed and updated, the corporate world has since followed suit in engaging their customers. This approach to customer service has its benefits and problems in equal measure. Overall, the use of social media to deliver customer service is both beneficial to the company and the customers.

Trial of Galileo Galilei Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Trial of Galileo Galilei - Research Paper Example This theory ruled the ancient and medieval science for a very long time and it was hugely respected among all the scientists around the world. When Galileo introduced his theory and heliocentric approach, it was proposed that Earth does not occupy the central position in the solar system, rather sun is at the centre and all the other planets including Earth revolve around it. The observations made by Galileo through his own telescope revealed the scientific facts that initiated phenomenal criticism around the globe. He showed proof based on practical experience that Earth is not stationary, rather it revolves around the sun. Actually, Galileo was made liable to attend a trial in the court because his theory did not go in accordance with the traditionally and religiously accepted view. This paper is an effort to highlight and explain almost all the exposed and obscured facts related to this historical trial. Science was a sub field of religion in the medieval ages and therefore, any modification made in the scientific views directly caused offence to the religiously held views as well. In this way, science and religion had a direct relation in the medieval age and this was one of the major causes of causing the entire angry riot in regards to Galileo’s heliocentric theory. Religious concepts were highly respected and fiercely followed in the old days and Galileo’s modern scientific views seriously interfered with the religious views of then people. In fact, Galileo experienced a dual-trial since he was seriously warned in the first trial in which he was ordered not to show any tendency for publicly speaking about his scientific approach. In the second trial, he was punished by the court in terms of house arrest and ordered to stay at his home for the rest of his life. This trial raised such a pandemonium in the scientific and

Community Hospital Database Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Community Hospital Database - Assignment Example Moreover, we have the physician table. This documents the details of the physician. On that note, it contains five fields, namely; the name of the physician, specialty, id of physician, date and the phone number. It is worth noting that decisive details’ pertaining to the fields is shown below. Furthermore, we also have the room utilization table. Apparently, this is mandated with the task of storing information regarding the accommodation of patients in the hospital. It contains four fields, which are the patient #, location, accommodation and the date discharged. It’s worth noting that the data pertaining to the type, fields’ size among others are shown below. Apparently, it is evident that the use of technology is essential in the smooth running of the Mountain View community hospital. Notably, it was critical for the incorporation of the database system in order to aid in various processes, for instance, the capturing and storage of the patient information among other important information required in a hospital setting(Demetriades Dinos 34). In actual fact, this was reached after a study was conducted in the hospital to establish some of the ways in which services can be improved in this hospital. First and foremost, in order for the above database system to be able to capture certain information, for instance, the marital status, gender, occupation, salary or the insurance coverage, the appropriate field must be added to the room utilization table and form(Demetriades Dinos 56). However, it is worth noting that the type data in each field should be specified accordingly to avoid errors that might arise.  

Human right Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Human right - Coursework Example In this case, the Court observed that inhuman treatment includes the unleashing of violence by police officials resulting in extreme physical injury and suffering3. Thus, to establish degrading or inhuman treatment, Strasbourg Court has framed a high yardstick for such treatment falling within the ambit of Article 3. As held in the Greek case (1969)4, it must surpass a â€Å"certain roughness of treatment†. In 1990, Ireland filed a case against UK for human rights violation in Northern Ireland by employing tactics like by deprivation of drink and food, hooding, wallstanding, deprivation of sleep and continuous loud noise to prisoners. ECHR held that these were against the rights guaranteed under Article 3 although it did not meet the requirements of torture within the meaning of degrading or inhuman treatment. After this, British army virtually stopped these types of torture5. In Jabari v Turkey6, the applicant alleged to have committed adultery in Iran, which is an offence under Iranian law for which stoning till to death is the punishment prescribed for. However, the Court viewed that kind of sentence was against the spirits of Article 3 and if any order of her deportation to Iran would be in infringement of the Article 37. In case of proportionality and harshness of the punishment, the Court will consider the rationale of the punishment and whether such a rationale involves the debasement or gratuitous humiliation of the victim. In Tyrer v United Kingdom8, the judicial corporal punishment which was given to the applicant was degrading and inhuman punishment as it is against the Article 3 which ensures physical integrity and individual’s dignity9. As a positive duty of the state, in R v Secretary of State for Home Department ex parte Limbuela 200510, it was held that any refusal to offer any monetary assistance to asylum seekers and barring them from employing, thereby making

Logistics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Logistics - Essay Example The effectiveness of logistic is improved through alliances with local suppliers that reduce cost of transportation. Porter (1985) asserts that logistics is key component of value chain that greatly facilitates business activities. In the company, technology is intrinsic part of strategy that facilitates inbound and outbound logistics for effective supply chain for raw material and network of distributors for finished goods. The parts are sent to offshore business partners where assembling is done and local transports are used to send the goods to dealers and stores. Thus, outsourcing partnership across the region significantly reduces transportation costs and helps gain competitive advantage in the current recessive environment. This saves time and effort as the assembling of products could be easily altered to suit the demands of the local customers across geographical boundaries. The products therefore, reach the customers timely and efficiently. Hence through creative logistic st rategy, the company is not only able to survive but is also able to maintain its market position. The use of technology facilitates improved communication and enhances efficiency in delivery of goods and services. Most importantly, good logistics has helped to expand business across the globe and provided the company with sustainable source of continuous income.

Plug-in Hybrid vs. Pure Electric Cars Research Essay Essay Example for Free

Plug-in Hybrid vs. Pure Electric Cars Research Essay Essay This world has prospered with gasoline cars since the late eighteen hundreds and nineteen hundreds. In fact, the world we live in today cannot stand without the benefits of gasoline-powered vehicular travel. Since the modernization of travel, the public can drive cars anywhere, including other countries, cities, streets, houses, or even backyards. The mass want of private automobiles has led to more drivers, then a huge amount of pollution, and then that familiar phrase: Global Warming. This is why we need a new alternative to the combustion engine, and there are very many ways to achieve this including plug-in cars and pure electric cars. But, to fully prevent Global Warming, our economy must run on pure clean energy. Plug-in hybrid cars have their benefits, including the ability to revert to an internal combustion engine when the battery dies, but pure-electric cars are the way to go because the battery has a much larger store of electricity and electric cars do not run on harmful gasoline; they run on clean energy. The pros of hybrid plug-in cars do not match the pros that the pure-electric car boasts. Although, there are some so-called experts who disprove this theory, and say that hybrid cars are the best way to go. A pro in the mind of Philip Dunn, a hybrid car advocate, is that â€Å"at higher speeds above forty miles per hour the gas motor kicks in and gives that peppy feel so many car owners look for when driving on the highway. † Another pro is that the hybrid car can â€Å"already get one-hundred mpg on fifty-five-mile trips using cobbled-together PHEVs,† (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) says Ben Hewitt, another advocate of hybrid cars. The hybrid vehicle also does not produce any Carbon-Dioxide from a stop, and does not produce any Carbon-Dioxide moving at less than under forty miles per hour. These pros, nonetheless, are better than a pure-gas engine, which compares with an average 21 mpg (estimation courtesy of EPA), and produces Carbon-Dioxide all of the time that it is running. But, these pros do not scratch the surface of the pure-electric car and its wonders. The cons of the plug-in car are various. The plug-in car costs â€Å"anywhere from three-thousand dollars to eight-thousand dollars more than conventional automobiles† (Watson), but these prices will go down as manufacturers start developing more hybrids and create more competition. Until there is more research, hybrids also use up the electric engine in under five-hundred uses, which leads to more money spent replacing the un-chargeable battery. Adding onto the list is the fact that hybrid cars will still use gasoline. In order to clean up Earth, hybrid plug-in cars and their problems shall not be created. Hybrid cars are also weighed down by both engines. The two engines also instigate the problem of maintaining two engines instead of one, which will make repair cost more than gas-powered cars in certain circumstances such as a car crash that damages both engines. Both pros and cons of the hybrid plug-in do not reach the level of pure electric cars. Few cons are tacked onto the pure electric car, but those few are important. Pure-electric cars cannot drive long distance road trips without being recharged. This can take up to three-and-a-half hours in some electric cars, which isn’t good for being late to work or a party. The beneficial trend toward more environmentally friendly vehicles has had the unintended effect of placing the blind and other pedestrians in danger, said Rep. Edolphus Towns (D-New York, 10th) in introducing The Pedestrian Safety Act of 2008 that would protect the blind from electric cars, which are silent. These cars are also pricy, with the Tesla Roadster reaching over one-hundred thousand dollars. These cons come with a reward, though. The pros of having a pure-electric vehicle are heavier than that of its cons. With an average of 220 mpc (miles per charge [based on EPA combined city/highway cycle]), the pure-electric car can cover the average daily driver’s commute and then some. The pure-electric Tesla Roadster can reach up to â€Å"125 mph and has a 0mph-60mph in less than 4 seconds† (Tesla Motors – Tesla Roadster). Also, whenever the brakes are used to stop, you charge the engine. Another thing is that, when stopped, the car does not consume any energy. All of this and zero-emissions boost the pure-electric car to the top of the list of daily drivers and high performance gas-guzzlers. Both types of car oust that of the gas-guzzlers on the road today. Although, to provide a cleaner and more-efficient future for Earth, humans must set aside fossil fuels and use clean electric energy, which a pure-electric car uses. The public cannot make a huge change into hybrid plug-ins and then switch to full electric power; just look at the Digital Television switch that has been postponed twice because people are too lazy to go out and get a free digital cable box. The people are slow to change, which means that in order to switch before humans destroy the world, humans must first change to pure-electric energy. If humans are ready to start the massive change to clean up Earth, those humans must first stop making a new mess. Works Cited Dunn, Philip. Hybrid Cars Pros and Cons. (2006) 4 Apr 2009 . Hewitt, Ben. Plug-in Hybrid Electric Cars: How Theyll Solve the Fuel Crunch. May 2007 4 Apr 2009 . Watson, Jerry. Hybrids pros and cons. (2005-2009) 4 Apr 2009 . http://www. teslamotors. com/performance/perf_specs. php Towns, Edolphus. Introduction of Pedestrian Safety Act of 2008, April 9th, 2008.

A Look At Three Types Of Price Searchers Economics Essay

A Look At Three Types Of Price Searchers Economics Essay A monopoly is a firm producing a commodity for which there is no close substitute. There are usually some forms of barriers of entry. It is difficult to define a pure monopoly as close substitutes are difficult to define. For example, there are no close substitutes for cigarettes, but there are many substitutes for Marlboro. 1.1 Characteristics à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Features (a) Only one seller. (b) Restricted entry by barriers. (c) Market information is not free and perfect. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Barriers to entry (a) Legal barriers create legal monopolies. (i) Public franchise: exclusive right to run a business, e.g. TVB. (ii) Government licence: exclusive right to entry into a business, e.g. taxi licence. (iii) Patent: exclusive right to use an invention, e.g. right to produce a drug. (b) Natural barriers create natural monopolies. (i) The average cost falls over a large volume of output before it rises. LRAC would be lower if an industry were under monopoly than if it was shared between two or more competitors. (ii) Control the supply of an essential raw material, e.g. most diamond mines in the world are controlled by De Beers Ltd. (iii) Economies of scale: The large fixed cost of production requires a large output to pull down the average cost, e.g. electricity generated by China Light Power Ltd. 1.2 Output And Price Decisions Definition A single-price monopoly is one that charges the same price for every unit of output it sells. The monopoly must decide how much to produce and what price to charge. It is a price-searcher. Definition A price searcher is a seller with sufficient market power to set its price by adjusting supply. Since there is only one firm in the industry, the demand curve of the firm is also the demand curve of the industry, and the seller faces a downward sloping demand curve. Table 1 illustrates the demand function of a petrol station. The marginal revenue is less than and falls faster than the price charged. The price is also equal to average revenue (AR). Table 1: Demand and marginal revenue Price (P, $/Litre) Quantity Demanded (Q) Total Revenue (TR = P x Q, $) Marginal Revenue (MR = ΆTR = ΆQ) ($/Extra Litre) 18 0 0 16 1 16 16 14 2 28 12 12 3 36 8 10 4 40 4 The monopoly maximises its profit by producing the level of output to MR = MC. Given the total cost as in Table 2, we can find that the best output level to maximise profit is at three litres, where both MC and MR are equal. The price charged is $12. Table 2: Demand and marginal cost Price (P, $/Litre) Quantity Demanded (Q) Total Revenue (TR=P x Q, $) Marginal revenue (MR = ΆTR / ΆQ, $/Extra Litre) Total Cost (TC, $) Marginal Cost ($/Extra Liter) 18 0 0 15 16 1 16 16 18 3 14 2 28 12 22 4 12 3 36 8 30 8 10 4 40 4 41 11 Graphically, the same conclusion can be derived in Figure 1. Figure 1 A monopolys output and price The price is determined by demand curve corresponding to the equilibrium quantity at which the MR equals to MC. The profit or loss is again determined by the ATC with reference to the quantity sold and the price charged. Owing to barriers to entry, economic profits will not be eliminated away in the long run. The only difference between short-run and long-run equilibrium is that in the long run, the firm will produce where MR = LRMC. 1.3 Single-price Monopoly Versus Perfect Competition A monopoly and perfect competition are two completely different market structures leading to different price and output decisions. We can summarise their differences as follows: Perfect Competition Monopoly à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Price-taker à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Monopoly influences its price à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Produce where MR = MC à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Produce where MR = MC à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ P = MR = MC à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ P > MC; P > MR à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ No barriers to entry à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Restricts output, charges a higher price In terms of output, a monopoly is always accused of restricting output in order to push the price above the marginal cost. This is known as allocative inefficiency, leading to loss in social welfare. In Figure 2, PM and QM are the price and output decisions of a monopoly, which are less than the corresponding output and price decisions in perfect competition. We can see that the PC and PM for perfect competition are set at P = AR = MR = MC. Figure 2 Price and output decisions in a monopoly and in perfect competition Similarly, the output level is reduced from QC to QM, which will hurt both consumers and producers in terms of loss in consumer surplus and producer surplus. The sum of such loss is known as deadweight loss. Definition A deadweight loss is a loss to society that cannot be recovered. Figure 3 Inefficiency of a monopoly In Figure 3, some of the losses of consumers have been captured by the producer as monopoly gain. However, there is still deadweight loss as illustrated by the area of the triangle. In this respect, a monopoly reduces the potential gain to society in term of social welfare. 1.4 Shortcomings Of A Monopoly A monopoly has the following shortcomings: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Higher price and lower output than under perfect competition in both short run and long run. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Possibility of higher cost due to lack of competition. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Unequal distribution of income as income concentrates on monopolies. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Lack of incentive in invention and innovation. 1.5 Advantages Of A Monopoly A monopoly has the following advantages: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Economies of scale. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Possibility of lower cost curve due to more research and development and more incentives. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ I nnovation and new products. 2. Monopolistic Competition The second type of price-searcher is monopolistic competition. Definition Monopolistic competition consists of features of perfect competition and monopoly. A firm in such a market structure is also referred to as open market price-searcher as it is not protected by barriers. 2.1 Characteristics à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Large number of sellers (a) Each firm has a small market share. (b) This implies independence of firms. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Freedom of entry à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Product differentiation Each firm has some market power over its loyal customer. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Each sellers product is a close substitute for many other sellers products (a) Products are made slightly different from others, i.e. differentiation. Definition In differentiation, products are made slightly different from others by brand, packaging, sales location and services. (b) Non-price competition is common. 2.2 Demand Curve Because of product differentiation, a firm can raise its price without losing all its customers. Therefore, the demand curve is downward sloping because a price rise results in the loss of some, but not all customers. The demand curve is relatively elastic because of substitutes from other firms. However, the actual elasticity depends on the degree of product differentiation. Generally, the less differentiated the product is, the more elastic the demand will be, and vice versa. 2.3 Price And Output Determination 2.3.1 Short run A firm in monopolistic competition faces a downward sloping demand curve. The marginal revenue (MR) curve of the firm in monopolistic competition is downward sloping. The profit is maximised where marginal revenue equals marginal cost. The profit-maximising output level is determined by the intersection of MR and MC curves. The profit-maximising price is determined by the demand curve. The firm can make a normal profit, an economic profit or a loss, depending on the difference between the price and the average total cost. Since each firm is small and has market power, no single firm can effectively influence what other firms do. If one firm changes its price, this action has no effect on the actions of the other firms. Figure 4 Monopolistic competition in the short run 2.3.2 Long run Economic profits in the short run will attract new entrants. When new firms enter, they share the market demand. The existing firms demand curve shifts inwards, representing less demand. This process continues until all economic profits are exhausted. When only normal profits remain, there is no incentive for new entrants. In Figure 5, the price and quantity are $140 and 60 units respectively. As the price is just equal to ATC, there is no economic profit. Figure 5 Monopolistic competition in the long run The long-run equilibrium will be a position where the downward sloping demand curve is tangent to the LRAC curve. However, the demand curve will never be tangent to the bottom of LRAC because it is downward sloping. The profit-maximising output is 60 units and price is $140. The firm in monopolistic competition has excess capacity as it does not produce at the optimum level of output where the LRAC is the lowest. Figure 6 Excess capacity in monopolistic competition 2.4 Shortcomings Monopolistic competition has the following disadvantages: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Owing to monopoly power, long-run equilibrium brings a higher price and lower output than perfect competition. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Owing to downward sloping demand curve, the firms demand curve will never be tangent to the bottom of the LRAC curve, implying that it will not produce at the least-cost point. Therefore, product differentiation in monopolistic competition creates excess capacity (i.e. creates inefficiency). à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Less scope for economies of scale as share among many sellers. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Lack of economic profits in the long run for research and development. 2.5 Advantages Monopolistic competition has the following advantages: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Demand curve is highly elastic due to the large number of substitutes. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Diversity of products is available. (However, it has been argued that the cost of diversity is excess capacity which is a type of inefficiency.) à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Greater freedom of entry when compared with monopoly. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Absence of economic profits in the long run helps to keep prices down for consumers. 3. Oligopoly Definition An oligopoly occurs when only a few firms share a large proportion of the industry. 3.1 Characteristics à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Few number of sellers Competition among a few, e.g. two to 20. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Products may be identical or differentiated à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Barriers to entry Entry may be relatively difficult or impossible (e.g. petroleum). à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Interdependence of firms Oligopolists react to the pricing policy of rivals. The outcome is that there is no single generally accepted theory of oligopoly. Firms may react differently and unpredictably. A firms policy will depend on how it thinks its competitors will react to its move and the consequence depends on how its competitors really react. 3.2 Collusion And Competition The interdependence of firms in an oligopoly drives firms into one of the following two incompatible policies: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Collusive oligopoly: Oligopolists have formal or tacit agreement to limit competition among themselves to reduce uncertainty. For example, they may set output quotas, fix prices and limit product promotion. The typical collusive oligopoly is a cartel price leadership. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Non-collusive oligopoly: There is no formal agreement among oligopolists. Firms compete for bigger shares of industry profits. 3.3 Collusive Oligopoly A typical collusive oligopoly has these features: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Cartel Firms acts like a monopoly to maximise industry profits. (a) Cartel by non-price competition: Market price is set by joint profit maximisation and each firm observes that price. However, they compete for customers in the form of non-price competition. (b) Cartel by quotas: Another way is to set the price by joint profit maximisation. Each firm observes that price, but each firm will take its share or quota of the total quantity demanded at the controlled price. Thus, both cases require adherence to the price-setting by joint profit-maximisation among oligopolists. The only difference is whether the quantity demanded at the controlled price is competed among the firms in the form of non-price competition or is divided among themselves in the form of quotas. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Price leadership The demand curve of price leader represents the market share of the leader. The leader first maximises its profits at the point where leaders MC = MR. The corresponding price of leaders demand curve becomes the market price which every other firm has to follow. The leader supplies at its equilibrium quantity and the followers supply the rest representing the difference between market demand and leaders supply. 3.4 Kinked Demand Curve Model There are many theories to explain different kinds of phenomena in oligopoly. One such theory, the kinked demand curve, is put forward by Paul M. Sweezy to explain the price rigidity or sticky price in an oligopoly industry. Assumptions: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ If a firm raises its price, others will not follow. Thus, the demand curve will be more elastic in this range. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ If a firm cuts its price, so will the other firms. The demand curve in this range will be less elastic. These assumptions result in the kinked demand curve. In Figure 7, because the demand curve has kinked, the MR has broken as is illustrated by the gap between a and b on the graph. And the output and price would be the same even though the MC rises due to the same level by the equality of MR and MC. Thus, the price will be sticky when the cost increases within a certain range. Figure 7 The kinked demand curve 3.5 Shortcomings An oligopoly has the following disadvantages: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Shares all the same disadvantages of monopoly, as discussed earlier in this chapter. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Less scope for economies of scale than monopoly. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ More extensive advertising than monopoly, e.g. non-price competition. 3.6 Advantages An oligopoly has the following advantages: à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Economic profits: returns for research and development. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Incentive for innovation: for capturing larger market share. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Greater choice: non-price competition through product differentiation. 4. FACTOR MARKET For the production of goods and services, a firm has to acquire factors of production. The markets for factors of production are similar to those of the product market, as they can be categorised into perfect or imperfect markets. The demand for a factor of production is dependent upon the demand of goods that use the factor. Hence, the demand for factors of production is a derived demand. Definition Derived demand is demand for a productive resource that results from the demand for the goods and services produced by the resource. Figure 8 Illustration of the factor and product markets Factor payment is the income for the owner of the factor of production for use of the factor over a period of time. The factor income for labour, land, capital and entrepreneurship are wages, rent, interest and normal profit respectively. In a perfectly competitive factor market, the factor payment is determined by the forces of demand and supply. Figure 9 Demand and supply in the factor market 5. MARGINAL PRODUCTIVITY THEORY This theory explains that the demand for a factor depends on the marginal revenue product (MRP) of the factor. Definition Marginal revenue product (MRP) is the additional sales revenue resulting from employing an additional worker. Marginal product (MP) is the extra output produced by the additional worker. The MP curve is downward sloping because of the law of diminishing returns. MRP = MP (factor) x MR (goods) The MRP curve is downward sloping from left to right. It is identical in shape to the MP curve because MR (i.e. price of a good) is constant under perfect competition in the product market. Figure 10 Marginal product for labour and marginal revenue product 6. DEMAND FOR A FACTOR Marginal cost (MC) is the extra cost of employing an additional unit of factor of production. In a perfectly competitive factor market, a firms MC graph for a factor is horizontal because the firm is facing a perfectly elastic supply of the factor. Therefore, MC = Price of the factor (i.e. MC of labour = Wages) 6.1 Profit Maximisation The firm maximises profits when: Marginal cost of hiring an extra unit of labour = Marginal revenue from the labours output to the firm In equilibrium, MC (labour) / Wages (factor price) = MRP Hence, the firms demand curve for labour is identical to its MRP curve. Figure 11 Demand for labour The market demand curve for labour is the sum of quantities of labour demanded by all firms at each wage rate. Chapter Review à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ A monopoly is a price-searcher who is a seller with sufficient market power to set his price by adjusting supply. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The monopoly maximises its profit by producing the level of output to MR = MC. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ A monopoly restricts output in order to push price above the marginal cost. Such allocative inefficiency leads to a loss in social welfare. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Because of product differentiation, a firm in monopolistic competition can raise its price without losing all its customers. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The firm in monopolistic competition has excess capacity as it does not produce at the optimum level of output where the LRAC is the lowest. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Due to the interdependence of firms, oligopolists react to the pricing policy of their rivals. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ The kinked demand curve explains that the price will be sticky when the cost increases within a certain range. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ A firm will maximise profits when the marginal cost of hiring an extra unit of labour = the marginal revenue from the labours output to the firm What You Need To Know à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Monopoly: A firm producing a commodity for which there is no close substitute. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Deadweight loss: Loss to society that cannot be recovered. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Single-price monopoly: Monopoly that charges the same price for every unit of output it sells. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Monopolistic competition: This market structure consists of features of perfect competition and monopoly. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Differentiation: Products are made slightly different from others by brand, packaging, sales location and services. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Oligopoly: Only a few firms share a large proportion of the industry. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¢ Derived demand: Demand for a productive resource that results from the demand for the goods and services produced by the resource. Work Them Out 1. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a monopoly? A The monopolist faces an inelastic demand for its product B There is only one seller in the market C Barriers of entry exist D The monopolist can influence the price 2. Which of the following statements is NOT true? A As an oligopolist responds to competitors actions, it can be considered a perfectly competitive firm. B Products in an oligopoly may be differentiated. C A cartel is like a monopolist with power to maximise industry profit. D Oligopoly is a market structure favourable to collusion. 3. The characteristic of a monopoly is A its large scale of production B the existence of barriers to entry C the huge initial investment D the necessity for a large market 4. A natural monopoly exists when A a franchise is granted to a firm B economies of scale are necessary C a firm can prevent the entry of competitors D a firm specialises in natural resources extraction 5. The monopolist can make economic profits because A entry is prevented B it charges a high product price C it has low promotion costs D it has a large market share 6. Economic profits earned by a monopolist are most likely due to A barriers of entry B an unexpected rise in the price of its product C good luck D the rate of return allowed by the government 7. Which of the following is NOT a feature of oligopoly? A Only a few firms dominate the industry. B There are no barriers to entry into the industry. C The product may be either homogeneous or differentiated. D Firms in an oligopoly face downward-sloping demand curves. 8. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of monopolistic competition? A A single price exists for similar goods. B Only normal profit exists in the long run. C Products are differentiated. D Excess capacity exists in the long run. 9. Which of the following statements is NOT true? A There are numerous sellers in perfect competition. B Products are differentiated in monopolistic competition. C Firms in perfect competition maximise profits. D Information is perfect in monopolistic competition. 10. What is the likely market structure of coffee shops in Hong Kong? A Monopoly B Oligopoly C Monopolistic competition D Perfect competition SHORT QUESTIONS What factor(s) enable(s) a monopoly to earn economic profits in the long run? Why do perfectly competitive firms maximise their profits by producing so that their marginal cost equals the price, but monopolists maximise their profits by setting a price that is greater than marginal costs? What are the characteristics of a market that allows a monopolist to successfully price discriminate between groups? Explain how a firm in an oligopoly can differentiate its product. ESSAY QUESTIONS 1. Peters Toy Factory, a single-price monopoly, has the following demand schedule and total cost for luxury toys: Quantity (Toys) Price ($/Toy) Total Cost ($) 0 10 1 1 8 3 2 6 7 3 4 13 4 2 21 5 0 31 Calculate Peters total revenue schedule. Calculate Peters marginal revenue schedule. Calculate Peters profit-maximising levels of : (i) output (ii) price (iii) marginal cost (iv) marginal revenue (v) profit 2. Mr Ma started a recycling business in Hong Kong this month. He employs students to sort and collect bottles, paying 10 cents for each bottle collected. The students can sort the following number of bottles in an hour. Number Of Students Number Of Bottles 1 200 2 450 3 750 4 1,150 5 1,450 6 1,700 7 1,900 8 2,050 9 2,150 (a) Why does the students marginal product decline? (b) If all other firms pay the students $25 an hour to collect bottles, how many students will Mr Ma hire? If the fee for each collected bottle rises to 12.5 cents and the students wages increases to $37.50 an hour, (c) Calculate and show the changes to the students marginal revenue product in a table. (d) How many students will Mr Ma hire?

Convolutional Codes Simulation Using Matlab Computer Science Essay

Convolutional Codes Simulation Using Matlab Computer Science Essay Abstract: In order to reduce the effects of random and burst errors in transmitted signal it is necessary to use error-control coding. We researched some possibilities of such coding using the MATLAB Communications Toolbox. There are two types of codes available Linear Block Codes and Convolutional Codes. In block coding the coding algorithm transforms each piece (block) of information into a code word part of which is a generated structured redundancy. Convolutional code uses an extra parameter (memory). This puts an extra constraint on the code. Convolutional codes operate on serial data, one or a few bits at a time. This paper describes basic aspects of Convolutional codes and illustrates Matlab encoding and decoding implementations. Convolutional codes are often used to improve the performance of radio and satellite links. Key words: Convolutional codes, error-control coding, radio and satellite links. 1. Introduction Convolutional codes are commonly specified by three parameters (n,k,m): n = number of output bits; k = number of input bits; m = number of memory registers. The quantity k/n called the code rate, is a measure of the efficiency of the code. Commonly k and n parameters range from 1 to 8, m from 2 to 10 and the code rate from 1/8 to 7/8 except for deep space applications where code rates as low as 1/100 or even longer have been employed. Often the manufacturers of convolutional code chips specify [1] the code by parameters (n,k,L), The quantity L is called the constraint length of the code and is defined by Constraint Length, L = k (m-1). The constraint length L represents the number of bits in the encoder memory that affect the generation of the n output bits. The constraint length L is also referred to by the capital letter K, which can be confusing with the lower case k, which represents the number of input bits. In some books K is defined as equal to product the of k and m. Often in commercial spec, the codes are specified by (r, K), where r = the code rate k/n and K is the constraint length. The constraint length K however is equal to L 1, as defined in this paper. Even though a convolutional coder accepts a fixed number of message symbols and produces a fixed number of code symbols, its computations depend not only on the current set of input symbols but on some of the previous input symbols. In general, a rate R=k/n, k  £ n, convolutional encoder input (information sequence) is a sequence of binary k-tuples, u = ..,u-1, u0, u1, u2,à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦, where . The output (code sequence) is a sequence of binary n-tuples, v = ..,v-1, v0, v1, v2,à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦, where . The sequences must start at a finite (positive or negative) time and may or may not end. The relation between the information sequences and the code sequences is determined by the equation v = uG , where is the semi-infinite generator matrix, and where the sub-matrices G i , 0 £ i £ m, are binary kXn matrices. The arithmetic in v = uG is carried out over the binary field, F 2 , and the parts left blank in the generator matrix G are assumed to be filled in with zeros. The right hand side of v= uG defines a discrete-time convolution between u and , hence, the name convolutional codes [2]. As in many other situations where convolutions appear it is convenient to express the sequences in some sort of transform. In information theory and coding theory [3], [4] it is common to use the delay operator D, the D-transform. The information and code sequences becomes and They are related through the equation , where is the generator matrix. The set of polynomial matrices is a special case of the rational generator matrices. Hence, instead of having finite impulse response in the encoder, as for the polynomial case, we can allow periodically repeating infinite impulse responses. To make the formal definitions for this case it is easier to start in the D-domain. Let F 2((D)) denote the field of binary Laurent series. The element contains at most finitely many negative powers of D. similarly, let F 2[D] denote the ring of binary polynomials. A polynomial contains no negative powers of D and only finitely many positive. Given a pair of polynomials x(D), y(D)Æ’Å ½ F 2[D], where y(D) ¹0, we can obtain the element x(D)/y(D)Æ’Å ½ F 2((D)) by long division. All non-zero ratios x(D)/y(D) are invertible, so they form the field of binary rational functions, F 2(D), which is a sub-field of F 2((D)). A rate R = k/n (binary) convolutional transducer over the field of rational functions F 2(D) is a linear mapping which can be represented as v(D)=u(D)G(D), where G(D) is a k X n transfer function matrix of rank k with entries in F 2(D) and v(D) is called the code sequence corresponding to the information sequence u(D). A rate R = k/n convolutional code C over F 2 is the image set of a rate R = k/n convolutional transducer. We will only consider realizable (causal) transfer function matrices, which we call generator matrices. A transfer function matrix of a convolutional code is called a generator matrix if it is realizable (causal). It follows from the definitions that a rate R = k/n convolutional code C with the k X n generator matrix G(D) is the row space of G(D) over F((D)). Hence, it is the set of all code sequences generated by the convolutional generator matrix, G(D). A rate R = k/n convolutional encoder of a convolutional code with rate R = k/n generator matrix G(D) over F 2(D) is a realization by linear sequential circuits of G(D). 2. Convolutional encoder simulation The Convolutional Encoder block encodes a sequence of binary input vectors to produce a sequence of binary output vectors. This block can process multiple symbols at a time. If the encoder takes k input bit streams (that is, can receive 2k possible input symbols), then this blocks input vector length is L*k for some positive integer L. Similarly, if the encoder produces n output bit streams (that is, can produce 2n possible output symbols), then this blocks output vector length is L*n. The input can be a sample-based vector with L  =  1, or a frame-based column vector with any positive integer for L. For a variable in the MATLAB workspace [5], [6] that contains the trellis structure, we put its name as the Trellis structure parameter. This way is preferable because it causes Simulink [5] to spend less time updating the diagram at the beginning of each simulation, compared to the usage in the next bulleted item. For specify the encoder using its constraint length, generator polyno mials, and possibly feedback connection polynomials, we used a poly2trellis command within the Trellis structure field. For example, for an encoder with a constraint length of 7, code generator polynomials of 171 and 133 (in octal numbers), and a feedback connection of 171 (in octal), we have used the Trellis structure parameter to poly2trellis(7,[171 133],171). The encoder registers begin in the all-zeros state. We configured the encoder so that it resets its registers to the all-zeros state during the course of the simulation: The value None indicates that the encoder never resets; The value On each frame indicates that the encoder resets at the beginning of each frame, before processing the next frame of input data; The value On nonzero Rst input causes the block to have a second input port, labeled Rst. The signal at the Rst port is a scalar signal. When it is nonzero, the encoder resets before processing the data at the first input port. 3. Convolutional decoder simulation 3.1. Viterbi Decoder The Viterbi Decoder block [7], [1] decodes input symbols to produce binary output symbols. This block can process several symbols at a time for faster performance. If the convolutional code uses an alphabet of 2n possible symbols, then this blocks input vector length is L*n for some positive integer L. Similarly, if the decoded data uses an alphabet of 2k possible output symbols, then this blocks output vector length is L*k. The integer L is the number of frames that the block processes in each step. The input can be either a sample-based vector with L  =  1, or a frame-based column vector with any positive integer for L. The entries of the input vector are either bipolar, binary, or integer data, depending on the Decision type parameter: Unquantized Real numbers; Hard Decision 0, 1; Soft Decision Integers between 0 and 2k-1, where k is the Number of soft decision bits parameter, with 0 for most confident decision for logical zero and 2k-1, most confident decision for logical one. Other values represent less confident decisions. If the input signal is frame-based, then the block has three possible methods for transitioning between successive frames. The Operation mode parameter controls which method the block uses: In Continuous mode, the block saves its internal state metric at the end of each frame, for use with the next frame. Each traceback path is treated independently. In Truncated mode, the block treats each frame independently. The traceback path starts at the state with the best metric and always ends in the all-zeros state. This mode is appropriate when the corresponding Convolutional Encoder block has its Reset parameter set to On each frame. In Terminated mode, the block treats each frame independently, and the traceback path always starts and ends in the all-zeros state. This mode is appropriate when the uncoded message signal (that is, the input to the corresponding Convolutional Encoder block) has enough zeros at the end of each frame to fill all memory registers of the encoder. If the encoder has k input streams and constraint length vector constr (using the polynomial description), then enough means k*max(constr-1). In the special case when the frame-based input signal contains only one symbol, the Continuous mode is most appropriate. The Traceback depth parameter, D, influences the decoding delay. The decoding delay is the number of zero symbols that precede the first decoded symbol in the output. If the input signal is sample-based, then the decoding delay consists of D zero symbols. If the input signal is frame-based and the Operation mode parameter is set to Continuous, then the decoding delay consists of D zero symbols. If the Operation mode parameter is set to Truncated or Terminated, then there is no output delay and the Traceback depth parameter must be less than or equal to the number of symbols in each frame. If the code rate is 1/2, then a typical Traceback depth value is about five times the constraint length of the code. The reset port is usable only when the Operation mode parameter is set to Continuous. Checking the Reset input check box causes the block to have an additional input port, labeled Rst. When the Rst input is nonzero, the decoder returns to its initial state by configuring its internal memory as follows: Sets the all-zeros state metric to zero; Sets all other state metrics to the maximum value; Sets the traceback memory to zero; Using a reset port on this block is analogous to setting the Reset parameter in the Convolutional Encoder block to On nonzero Rst input. 3.2. APP Decoder The APP Decoder block [8] performs a posteriori probability (APP) decoding of a convolutional code. The input L(u) represents the sequence of log-likelihoods of encoder input bits, while the input L(c) represents the sequence of log-likelihoods of code bits. The outputs L(u) and L(c) are updated versions of these sequences, based on information about the encoder. If the convolutional code uses an alphabet of 2n possible symbols, then this blocks L(c) vectors have length Q*n for some positive integer Q. Similarly, if the decoded data uses an alphabet of 2k possible output symbols, then this blocks L(u) vectors have length Q*k. The integer Q is the number of frames that the block processes in each step. The inputs can be either: Sample-based vectors having the same dimension and orientation, with Q  =  1; Frame-based column vectors with any positive integer for Q. To define the convolutional encoder that produced the coded input, we have used the Trellis structure MATLAB parameter. We tested two ways: The name as the Trellis structure parameter, for a variable in the MATLAB workspace that contains the trellis structure. This way is preferable because it causes Simulink to spend less time updating the diagram at the beginning of each simulation, compared to the usage in the next bulleted item; For specify the encoder using its constraint length, generator polynomials, and possibly feedback connection polynomials, we used a poly2trellis command within the Trellis structure field. For example, for an encoder with a constraint length of 7, code generator polynomials of 171 and 133 (in octal numbers), and a feedback connection of 171 (in octal), we used the Trellis structure parameter to poly2trellis(7,[171 133],171. To indicate how the encoder treats the trellis at the beginning and end of each frame, its necessary to set the Termination method parameter to either Truncated or Terminated. The Truncated option indicates that the encoder resets to the all-zeros state at the beginning of each frame, while the Terminated option indicates that the encoder forces the trellis to end each frame in the all-zeros state. We can control part of the decoding algorithm using the Algorithm parameter. The True APP option implements a posteriori probability. To gain speed, both the Max* and Max options approximate expressions by other quantities. The Max option uses max{ai} as the approximation, while the Max* option uses max{ai} plus a correction term. The Max* option enables the Scaling bits parameter in the mask. This parameter is the number of bits by which the block scales the data it processes internally. We have used this parameter to avoid losing precision during the computations. It is especially appropriate for implementation uses fixed-point components. 4. Conclusions In these work we have constructed and tested in Maple convolutional encoders and decoders of various types, rates, and memories. Convolutional codes are fundamentally different from other classes of codes, in that a continuous sequence of message bits is mapped into a continuous sequence of encoder output bits. It is well-known in the literature and practice that these codes achieve a larger coding gain than that with block coding with the same complexity. The encoder operating at a rate 1/n bits/symbol, may be viewed as a finite-state machine that consists of an M-stage shift register with prescribed connections to n modulo-2 adders, and a multiplexer that serializes the outputs of the adders.

Essay --

Section A: Plan of Investigation Between 1940 and 1944, France was occupied by the German Army during World War II. The war saw the emergence of Coco Chanel as a Nazi spy, due to her openly anti-Semitic feelings, independence in business and influence as a couture designer (Vaughan 230). For these qualities she was recruited in to the Abwehr, the German military intelligence organization (134). To determine the extent of Coco Chanel’s involvement in Nazi missions the investigation will examine the following factors; personal relationships with high level officials allowing her elite conduct, her collaborations with Nazis in Paris, the nature of her work for the German military intelligence service and Himmler’s S.S. and did all of these factors designate her as a Nazi spy? Section B: Summary of Evidence Personal Relationships with High Level Officials †¢ Coco Chanel had an intimate relationship with Hans Gunther van Dincklage, a high ranking German official (Vaughan 141). †¢ Dincklage arranged for Chanel to stay at German occupied hotel, The Ritz. Giving her unrestricted access to German Headquarters in France (141). †¢ Romantic ties with the Duke of Westminster (â€Å"Coco Chanel†). †¢ Next door neighbor and friend of Fern Bedaux, Nazi collaborator ( Vaughan 151). †¢ Close relationship with British Ambassador to Spain, Sir Samuel Hoare (Samuel). †¢ Chanel was pardoned for her crimes by Winston Churchill (237). †¢ Never formally charged as a collaborator due to Churchill’s intervention (â€Å"Coco Chanel†). †¢ Churchill intervened in both her arrest and trial (Samuel). †¢ Spared from a public trial by British Royal family (Walker). Collaborations with Nazis in Paris †¢ One of few civilians living in German Headquarters (Vaughan 141). †¢ Visas for Ch... ...e political and social conflict of Chanel’s involvement has dissolved as new information has been declassified and readers are exposed to the intelligence once only known to government officials. Chanel agreed to work with the Nazi party in pursuit of her nephew’s return to her, not for her own personal beliefs and experience. Section E: Conclusion After Chanel’s two failed missions in sending letters of treaty negotiations she is not accredited with the label as a spy (Vaughan 199). However she is linked to the Nazi party, for her involvement with the Abwehr (134). Chanel is considered proactive in her strategy to recover her nephew. It can be justly claimed that Chanel, although involved in Nazi social circles and ambitions, was not a Nazi spy as she sought to bring peace and the safety of her nephew in her actions and proof of her missions were never recovered. Essay -- Section A: Plan of Investigation Between 1940 and 1944, France was occupied by the German Army during World War II. The war saw the emergence of Coco Chanel as a Nazi spy, due to her openly anti-Semitic feelings, independence in business and influence as a couture designer (Vaughan 230). For these qualities she was recruited in to the Abwehr, the German military intelligence organization (134). To determine the extent of Coco Chanel’s involvement in Nazi missions the investigation will examine the following factors; personal relationships with high level officials allowing her elite conduct, her collaborations with Nazis in Paris, the nature of her work for the German military intelligence service and Himmler’s S.S. and did all of these factors designate her as a Nazi spy? Section B: Summary of Evidence Personal Relationships with High Level Officials †¢ Coco Chanel had an intimate relationship with Hans Gunther van Dincklage, a high ranking German official (Vaughan 141). †¢ Dincklage arranged for Chanel to stay at German occupied hotel, The Ritz. Giving her unrestricted access to German Headquarters in France (141). †¢ Romantic ties with the Duke of Westminster (â€Å"Coco Chanel†). †¢ Next door neighbor and friend of Fern Bedaux, Nazi collaborator ( Vaughan 151). †¢ Close relationship with British Ambassador to Spain, Sir Samuel Hoare (Samuel). †¢ Chanel was pardoned for her crimes by Winston Churchill (237). †¢ Never formally charged as a collaborator due to Churchill’s intervention (â€Å"Coco Chanel†). †¢ Churchill intervened in both her arrest and trial (Samuel). †¢ Spared from a public trial by British Royal family (Walker). Collaborations with Nazis in Paris †¢ One of few civilians living in German Headquarters (Vaughan 141). †¢ Visas for Ch... ...e political and social conflict of Chanel’s involvement has dissolved as new information has been declassified and readers are exposed to the intelligence once only known to government officials. Chanel agreed to work with the Nazi party in pursuit of her nephew’s return to her, not for her own personal beliefs and experience. Section E: Conclusion After Chanel’s two failed missions in sending letters of treaty negotiations she is not accredited with the label as a spy (Vaughan 199). However she is linked to the Nazi party, for her involvement with the Abwehr (134). Chanel is considered proactive in her strategy to recover her nephew. It can be justly claimed that Chanel, although involved in Nazi social circles and ambitions, was not a Nazi spy as she sought to bring peace and the safety of her nephew in her actions and proof of her missions were never recovered.

The Benefits of Medical Marijuana Essays -- Argumentative Essays

According to a report put out by the British Police Foundation in March 2000, cannabis has been shown to produce less harmful effects than its other legal counterparts such as alcohol and tobacco. This kind of information calls into sharper focus the question on the minds of many as to why such a plant that is not only less harmful than legal drugs but has significant health benefits has remained illegal. People all over the world, continue to be tendered prescription medication, which in many cases further complicate health issues with its myriad of side effects. In fact, statistics have shown that approximately 100,000 people around the world die as a result of prescription drugs annually (Smith, 2012). On the contrary, according to Smith (2012) there has, in 10,000 years only 1 death that has been blamed on cannabis use. It is no wonder why cannabis or marijuana continues to play such an integral role in the medical field, despite it being marginalized and frowned upon by many societies. Clark (2000) describes marijuana as an alternative medicine that is moving away from the conventional prescribed medications and is seen as a treatment for pain, nausea and vomiting incurred from chemotherapy and rapid weight loss associated with HIV/AIDS, which he says adds to the accolades levied at the feet of medical marijuana as it not only serves as treatment for several illnesses but it also helps with the many side effects associated with various ailments. Though, scientific evidence is limited in supporting the value of medical marijuana, several clinical studies have been carried out which supports its effectiveness in treating numerous conditions and aiding in quelling the side effects associated with several others. Throu... ...www.jabfm.org/content/24/4/452.lon McPartland, JM, and PL Pruitt. "Medical marijuana and its use by the immunocompromised." Diss. 1997. Abstract. Altern Ther Health Med. (n.d.): n. pag. Web. 11 Nov. 2013. . ‘Medical’ Marijuana: 10 Health Benefits That Legitimize Legalization. (n.d.).International Business Times. Retrieved November 12, 2013, from http://www.ibtimes.com/%E2%80%98medical%E2%80%99-marijuana-10-health-benefits-legitimize-legalization-742456 Seamon, M., Fass, J., Maniscalco-Feichtl, M., & Abu-Shraie, N. (2007). Medical marijuana and the developing role of the pharmacist . Am J Health-Syst Pharm, 64. Retrieved November 11, 2013, from http://axon.psyc.memphis.edu/~charlesblaha/770 The Daily Smoker. (n.d.). Cannabis Quotes. Retrieved November 12, 2013, from http://www.dailysmoker.com/various/cannabis-quotes

Bell Curve

The Bell Curve is a controversial, best-selling 1994 book by Richard J. Herrnstein and Charles Murray exploring the role of intelligence in American life. The book became widely read and debated due to its discussion of race and intelligence in Chapters 13 and 14. Named for the bell-shaped normal distribution of IQ scores, the book claims there to have been the rise of a â€Å"cognitive elite† having a significantly higher than average chance of succeeding in life. Within both the mainstream media and the scientific community, large numbers of people rallied to both support and criticize the book.The Bell Curve is fairly large for a book of its popularity, having 845 pages in the first printing and 879 in the revised paperback form. Much of its material is technical and academic, but the book's statistical explanations are styled to appeal to a general audience. The Bell Curve is divided into four sections. First, argues that social stratification on the basis of intelligence has been increasing since the beginning of the twentieth century. Second, presents original research showing significant correlations between intelligence and various social and economic outcomes.For instance, based on data as of 1989 this section shows that among Whites intelligence level (cognitive class) is a better predictor of poverty than parents' socioeconomic class. Third, by far the most controversial, examines what role IQ plays in contributing to social and economic differences between ethnic groups in America. Finally, discusses the implications of the findings for education and social policy in the United States. Of course, Bell curve is scientific. Both the American Psychological Association and the Human Genome Project have denounced the science behind The Bell Curve.Its authors were unqualified to speak on either genetics or intelligence, since their expertise lay in other fields. Their project did not rise through the usual system of academic publishing, and in fact the authors ducked the process of peer review. The Bell Curve was ultimately funded by the wealthy, far-right Bradley Foundation, which used its media connections to launch a massive national publicity campaign. And The Bell Curve relies heavily on studies that were financed by the Pioneer Fund, a neo-Nazi organization that promotes eugenicist research.The persons that are responsible in bell curve were Charles Murray and Richard Herrnstein. Charles Alan Murray (born 1943) is an influential conservative American policy writer and researcher. He is most widely known for Losing Ground, his influential work on welfare reform, Human Accomplishment, a quantification and ranking of well-known scientists and artists and as co-author (with Richard J. Herrnstein) of The Bell Curve in 1994, exploring the role of intelligence in American life.He's written several other books on modern social issues and politics, and has sometimes written on libertarian perspectives. Richard J. Herrnstein (May 20, 1930—September 13, 1994) was a prominent researcher in comparative psychology who did pioneering work on pigeon intelligence employing the Experimental Analysis of Behavior and formulated the â€Å"Matching Law† in the 1960s, a breakthrough in understanding how reinforcement and behavior are linked. He was the Edgar Pierce Professor of psychology at Harvard University and worked with B. F.Skinner in the Harvard pigeon lab, where he did research on choice and other topics in behavioral psychology. Herrnstein became more broadly known for his work on the correlation between race and intelligence, first in the 1970s, then with Charles Murray, discussed in their controversial best-selling 1994 book, The Bell Curve. Herrnstein died shortly before the book was released. The row over school vouchers, whose advocates endlessly take it for granted that poor performance by students reflects only inadequacies by the teaching profession inadequacies among the learners being a huge unmentionable.The President's astounding proposal that all American youngsters, including those with IQs at the left tail, should have at least two years of college. The expressions of surprise and rage when it turned out that, in the absence of affirmative action, prestigious law schools would be admitting hardly any black students. Eugenics is a social philosophy, which advocates the improvement of human hereditary traits through various forms of intervention. The purported goals have variously been to create healthier, more intelligent people, save society's resources, and lessen human suffering.Earlier proposed means of achieving these goals focused on selective breeding, while modern ones focus on prenatal testing and screening, genetic counseling, birth control, in vitro fertilization, and genetic engineering. Opponents argue that eugenics is immoral and is based on, or is itself, pseudoscience. Historically, eugenics has been used as a justification for coercive state-s ponsored discrimination and human rights violations, such as forced sterilization of persons with genetic defects, the killing of the institutionalized and, in some cases, genocide of races perceived as inferior.In the social aspect of bell curve, the publication of Herrnstein and Murray's The Bell Curve enraged readers with its controversial racial and intellectual agenda, which suggested that certain groups of children are genetically unable to learn because of their race and, therefore, unworthy of the educational attention and financial resources that flow from federal and state governments Gottfredson, Linda S. â€Å"Mainstream Science on Intelligence†. Published in The Wall Street Journal, December 13, 1994, and also in Intelligence, January-February 1997. http:www. //en. wikipedia. org/wiki/The_Bell_Curve.

Marks & Spencer Natural Environment

1.0 Executive SummaryMarketing environment is very important for any given organisation as it relates to the macro environment, the microenvironment as well as the internal environment. The above sub types of environment are very important in the performance of any given organization. Marks and Spencer is affected by the three sub types of environment. The microenvironment at Marks and Spencer involves suppliers, consumers as well as customers, who deal directly with the organisation and impact on the performance of the organisation.The microenvironment will be discussed in length in this report with an aim of demonstrating how the natural environment operates. The macro environment as it relates to Marks and Spencer refers to the factors that influence the company’s performance but are out of control of the company. This touches on the legal aspects such as laws on environmental issues that impact on the operations of Marks and Spencer. Finally, the report incorporates intern al environment issues, which basically involve; men, money, machinery, materials as well as markets. The above are discussed with an aim of demonstrating how they interrelate to cause positive change in Marks and Spencer.2.0 Overview of the natural environment (Marks & Spencer)In a bid to address possible threats and challenges in regard to the natural environment of the organisation, Marks and Spencer has several plans in place as part of its strategic repositioning for future business scenarios. Plan A program at Marks and Spencer constitutes of a five-year, 100-point plan to tackle some of the biggest challenges facing the organisation in relation to the political, economic, social, and technological environment.The plan is designed to facilitate a smooth working relationship between the customers and the suppliers to; combat climate change, through initiation of programs, which embrace safe environmental practices bearing in mind that the company gets its raw materials from the environment and it has a corporate duty and responsibility to conserve the environment. This calls for the company to embrace modern business practices, which are environment friendly such as the use of fuels, which cause little or no pollution to the environment.3) Identify TWO areas of the natural environment likely to impact on Marks and Spencer in the medium termMarks and Spencer has embarked on initiatives to reduce wastage by realigning its production roles with emerging technologies, which ensure that there is little or no wastage of raw materials considering the fact that the rate of harvesting of raw materials from the natural environment is far much higher compared to the rate at which the natural environment is rejuvenating. By embracing wastage control methods such as recycling, Marks and Spencer is promoting a symbiotic relationship between the organisation and the local communities, who are affected by the actions of the company on the environment.The company is commit ted to safeguarding natural resources by putting in place several initiatives such as community-based environmental programs, which are aimed at enlightening the local community on the importance of preserving nature. In addition, the initiatives geared towards safeguarding nature have targeted all stakeholders including the employees because it is viewed that if every stakeholder understands and appreciates the individual role in safeguarding the environment, this would be beneficial not only for the sustainability of the organisation but also for the benefit of all.Trading ethically constitutes an important function in Marks and Spencer. This is important due to the fact that ethical practices are aimed at protecting the given organisation from harming any of its stakeholders. Marks and Spencer has a code of conduct as well as corporate responsibility policies, which guide the organisation in relation to its duties to the stakeholders.Marks and Spencer is committed to building a h ealthier nation by ensuring that it fulfils its social, political, legal, and environmental obligations to its stakeholders. As a retailer, they use a huge range of raw materials to produce our goods. Because of this, it is critical that the organisation manages the use of these materials sensitively and pays proper regard to how they affect natural habitats and bio-diversity.But making a difference here is not as simple as they would like. Change process in an organisation is a demanding and challenging process. It requires new types of standards to be set and adhered to across the world. As some materials – such as cotton and palm oil – are traded globally, the ability to affect change may at times be modest. There is a need for the organisation to work closely with suppliers, government bodies, environmental groups and local communities to promote sustainability.4.1 Description of the marketing strategy the organisation currently employs to accommodate the key featu res of the natural environment.The Marketing strategy would become the parameter for a company to be a successful company.Although environmental issues influence all human activities, few academic disciplines have integrated green issues into their literature. This is especially true of marketing. As society becomes more concerned with the natural environment, businesses have begun to modify their behaviour in an attempt to address society's â€Å"new† concerns. Marks and Spencer have been quick to accept concepts like environmental management systems and waste minimization, and have integrated environmental issues into all organizational activities. Some evidence of this is the development of journals such as â€Å"Business Strategy and the Environment† and â€Å"Greener Management International,† which are specifically designed to disseminate research relating to business' environmental behaviour.Marks and Spencer uses a green marketing strategy for purposes o f promotion of products with environmental characteristics so as to promote environmentally friendly behaviour amongst consumers. For Marks and Spencer the green marketing strategy applies to consumer goods in that the company promotes the concept of eco-tourism.The company has engaged in plans, which has seen product modification geared towards producing more environmentally friendly systems especially in the area of product packaging. Marks and Spencer has invested in production facilities, which significantly reduce wastage as well as preserving energy. In the same manner, the company has adapted ethical advertising policies, which aim at ensuring that every advertisement is considerate of environmental implications in terms of the decisions that consumers make. To this end, the company has participated in several forums and especially those organized by American Marketing Association (AMA) where is has shown support to consumer goods advocating for sustainable environment practi ces.4.2 Explanation as to why the above strategies are likely to be of the greatest future significance to the organisation.Social ResponsibilityHow a company is viewed by the public goes a long way in determining its future performance in relation to consumers. The strategies Marks and Spencer has adopted in a bid to promote natural environment can be seen as efforts geared towards good corporate social responsibility. Many firms are beginning to realize that they are members of the wider community and therefore must behave in an environmentally responsible manner by putting in place corporate social responsibility policies.Hence the reason why Marks and Spencer allocates huge budgets for its natural environment conservation efforts. This results in environmental issues being integrated into the firm's corporate culture. Firms in this situation can take two perspectives; 1) they can use the fact that they are environmentally responsible as a marketing tool; or 2) they can become re sponsible without promoting this fact. For the case of Marks and Spencer, the company has promoted the first perspective of promoting environmentally responsible practices.The strategies the company has adopted in as far as acting responsibly in relation to the environment have taken marketing related dimension. Despite pressure from the government through legislations aimed at protecting the consumers and the society at large, the impact has been felt at Marks and Spencer. Governmental regulations relating to environmental marketing and designed to protect consumers have in one way or the other contributed to Marks and Spencer’s decision to realign its production systems towards achieving less wastage, use of ethical advertisements, as well as engaging in raising the level of awareness on environmental issues is an indication that Marks and Spencer is reposition itself for future implications of government policies on environment.Specifically, Marks and Spencer has adapted t wo concepts of food miles and field to fork in a bid to respond to emerging situations.â€Å"Food miles† is a relatively new idea in the debate about sustainability. Typically it is taken to mean the distance travelled to move food from the place it is produced to the store where it's bought. But increasingly the definition goes wider, to include issues like locality, freshness, use of preservatives, packaging, choice, support for UK farmers and quality. Many environmental groups attach particular importance to food being produced close to where it is sold.Field-to-forkIn 2003, Marks and Spencer launched a new over-arching set of standards to cover the management of the supply chain for fruit, vegetables and salads. These were drawn up after consultation with suppliers, government bodies and other organisations and covers aspects of production from â€Å"field-to-fork†.The company has commissioned independent research to look at similar systems around the world. As a r esult, they believe our Field-to-Fork scheme goes beyond the British and European assurance schemes used by other retailers, being the first to include such a wide range of requirements. Their standards cover traceability, minimising pesticide use, ethical trading, support for non-GM foods and food safety.5.0 Recommendations for changes to the internal operations of the organisation to best meet their potential impact.Although Marks and Spencer has done a recommendable job in terms of promoting the natural environment, there is still room for improvement. The organisation particularly needs to work on its internal environment by; initiating more training programs for its human resources geared towards environment related issues. Secondly, the organisation needs to increase its budget allocated to environment conservation efforts. In addition, the organisation needs to invest in modern production technologies to further reduce wastage.There is also a need for the company to find last ing solutions to the management of materials especially in regard to conservation of its sources of raw materials. Finally, Marks and Spencer must look further from its traditional markets and diversify its brands to cover new markets as a potential source of increasing sales revenues, which will avail more money to be used in promoting the natural environment. The above can only be achieved by the organisation utilizing modern business analytical tools such as SWOT analysis, PEST analysis as well as Michael Porters Fiver Forces analysis so as to arrive at informed decisions, which are also sustainable.Referenceshttp://www.theage.com.au/ Accessed on 20/05/2007.