Effects of Mass Media

During the last century there have been many developments in the evolution of media. The biggest probably being computers and the internet. Computers used to be just giant, chunky, boxes with a screen, a keyboard, and a mouse. They were slow as a snail and the graphics were not of the best quality. Now a days, we have slim and sleek screens that can be completely touch censored, and voice typing. As well as faster performance and processing, high-definition and high quality graphics. The internet has gone from a slow dial-up connection to now being wireless with extremely fast connections and now people can connect to the web from almost anywhere in the world thanks to Wi-fi, iPads, laptops, tablets and smart phones. Smart phones are the new and improved versions of the not so impressive cell phones from the past centuries. What used to be basic buttons and screen flip phones are now slim touch-screened phones. Today’s cell phones, or as they are now called smart phones, can take high quality photos and videos. They are also capable of downloading applications, or apps, that allow the user to play high graphic games, watch television and movies. As well as have face-to-face video chatting, text messaging and email. Now all of these changes have greatly influenced not only the American culture, but the entire world. The high speeds of the internet have made keeping in touch with friends and family simple and fast, thanks to text messaging and emails. Social networking sites, such as Facebook, Twitter, and MySpace, are a great way to stay in touch. These sites allow users to post status updates, upload albums worth of pictures and videos, as well as plan events and send out invites. An educational game used by children on computers, tablets and smart phones gives the chance to begin learning at a young age while having fun at the same time. The portability of these devices is great for on the go learning. Barcode scanners on smart phone weight loss apps, allow users to gain more information on food items and gives the opportunity to make healthier food choices when shopping for groceries. Fitness apps also help users keep track of workouts and set alarm reminders to workout, as well as view videos and tips on how to properly perform exercises. Online purchases make shopping a breeze, people can browse products online, add them to a virtual shopping cart and by just typing in their credit card information they have made their purchase. This ability creates an easier lifestyle for those that have issues with driving and walking. Media convergence, or a process by which previously distant technologies come to share tasks and resources, can be thanked for all these great changes. Basically what media convergence is is traditional media combining with emerging media. A good example of this would be the ability for cell phones to not only take high quality pictures and videos but the opportunity to share them online. Henry Jenkins a media theorist suggested that there are five different forms of media convergence. Economic convergence which is when one company uses many different forms of media, something such as a business using commercials, radio and online adds to sell their products. Secondly we have cultural convergence, or when news and information pass along through things such as social networking sites, blogs, television, and newspapers. This allows users to comment their own opinions and information. Global convergence involves geographically distant cultures that are able to influence each other. Technological convergence is the merging of different technologies, such as the cell phones new abilities that was discussed earlier. Lastly would be organic convergence, or multimedia multitasking, and the natural outcome of the media world. Due to today’s society being highly dependent on media as it is our main source of communication and other life necessities, the ability to process media messages, or media literacy, is a very important skill to obtain. From a very early age we are all exposed to media and being a media literate person allows one to chance to interpret these messages in their own way and form their own opinion in this media lead society. As you can see media is a wildly used resource all over the world and as it continues to advance and grow with each century, there is no way of knowing just how far things will go with the power of media and knowledge.

Night World : Daughters of Darkness Chapter 8

She waited another hour after he set off down theroad, heading east-doing what, she had no idea. There was nothing that way except two creeks andlots of trees. And her house. She hoped he was goingto try to walk into town, and that he didn't realize how far it was. All right, he's gone, now forget about him. You'vegot a job to do, remember? A slightly dangerous one. And he's not involved. I don't believe he knows anything about what happened to Mrs. B. She got the shovel and started down the road west.As she walked she found that she was able to put Ash out of her mind completely. Because all she could think of was what was waiting ahead. I'm not scared to do it; I'm not scared, I'm notscared†¦. OfcourseI'm scared. But being scared was good, it would make her careful. She would do this job quickly and quietly. In through the gap in the hedge, a little fast work with the shovel, out again before anybody saw her. She tried not to picture what she was going to findwith that shovel if she was right. She approachedBurdock Farm cautiously, going north and then doubling back southeast to come in through the back property. The farmland had gone wild here, taken over by poison oak, beargrass, and dodder, besides the inevitable blackberry bushes and gorse. Tan oaks and chinquapins were moving in. Sometime soon these pastures would be forest. I'm not sure I believe I'm doing this, MaryLynnette thought as she reached the hedge that surrounded the garden. But the strange thing was that she didbelieve it. She was going to vandalize a neighbor's property and probably look at a dead bodyand she was surprisingly cool about it. Scared but not panicked. Maybe there was more hidden inside her than she realized. I may not be who I've always thought I am. The garden was dark and fragrant. It wasn't theirises and daffodils Mrs. B. had planted; it wasn't the fireweed and bleeding heart that were growing wild. It was the goats. Mary-Lynnette stuck to the perimeter of the hedge,eyes on the tall, upright silhouette of the farmhouse. There were only two windows lit. Please don't let them see me and please don't letme make a noise. Still looking at the house, she walked slowly, taking careful baby steps to the place where the earth was disturbed. The first couple of swipes with the shovel hardly moved the soil. Okay. Put a little conviction in it. And don't watch the house; there's no point. If they look out, they're going to see you, and there's nothing you can do about it. Just as she put her foot on the shovel, somethingwent hooshin the rhododendrons behind her. Crouched over her shovel,Mary-Lynnette froze. Stop worrying, she told herself. That's not the sisters. It's not Ash coming back. That's an animal. She listened. A mournful maaaa came from the goat shed. It wasn't anything. It was a rabbit. Dig! She got out a spadeful of dirt-and then she heardit again. Hoosh. A snuffling sound. Then a rustling. Definitely an animal. But if it was a rabbit, it was an awfully loud one. Who cares what it is? Mary-Lynnette told herself.There aren't any dangerous animalsout here. And I'm not afraid of the dark. It's my natural habitat. I love the night. But tonight, somehow, she felt differently. Maybe it was just the scene with Ash that had shaken her, made her feel confused and discontented. But just now she felt almost as if something was trying to tell her that the dark wasn't any human's natural habitat. That she wasn't built for it, with her weak eyes and her insensitive ears and dull nose. That she didn't belong. Hoosh. I may have rotten hearing, but I can hearthatjustfine. And it's big. Something big's sniffing around in bushes. What kind of big animal could be out here? Itwasn't a deer deer went snort-wheeze. It sounded larger than a coyote, taller. A bear? Then she heard a different sound the vigorousshaking of dry, leathery rhododendron leaves. In the dim light from the house she couldseethe branches churning as something tried to emerge. it's coming out. Mary-Lynnette clutched her shovel and ran. Nottoward the gap in the hedge, not toward the housethey were both too dangerous. She ran to the goat shed. I can defend myself in here-keep it out—hit itwith the shovel†¦. The problem was that she couldn't see from in here.There were two windows in the shed, but between dirt on the glass and the darkness outside, Mary-Lynnette couldn't make out anything. She couldn'teven see the goats, although she could hear them. Don't turn on the penlight. It'll just give awayyour position. Holding absolutely still, she strained tohear any thing from outside. Nothing. Her nostrils were full of goat. The layers of oat straw and decomposing droppings on the floor were smelly, and they kept the shed too warm. Her palms were sweating as she gripped the shovel. I've never hit anybody †¦ not since Mark and Iwere kids fighting †¦ but, heck, I kicked a strangerthis morning†¦ . She hoped the potential for violence would comeout now when she needed it. A goat nudged her shoulder.Mary-Lynnette shrugged it away. The other goat bleated suddenlyand she bit her lip. Oh, God-I heard something out there. The goatheard it, too. She could taste her bitten lip. It was like sucking on a penny. Blood tasted like copper, which, she realizedsuddenly, tasted like fear. Something opened the shed door. What happened then was that Mary-Lynnette Something unholy was after her. Something thatsniffed like an animal but could open doors like ahuman. She couldn't see what it was-just a shadowdarkness against darkness. She didn't think ofturning on the penlight-her only impulse was to smash out with the shovel now, to get ft before ft could get her. She was tingling with the instinct forpure, primordial violence. Instead, she managed to hiss, â€Å"Who is ft? Who'sthere?† A familiar voice said,†Iknew you were going to do this. I've been lookingeverywherefor you.† â€Å"Oh,God, Mark.† Mary-Lynnette sagged against wall of the shed, letting go of the shovel. The goats were both bleating. Mary-Lynnette's earswere ringing. Mark shuffled farther in. â€Å"Jeez, this place smells. What are you doing inhere?† â€Å"Youjerk,†Mary-Lynnette said. â€Å"I almost brained you!† 0†³You said you were forgetting all this crazy stuff. You lied to me.† â€Å"Mark, you don't †¦We can talk later†¦. Did you hearanything out there?† She was trying to gather her thoughts. â€Å"Like what?† He was so calm. It made MaryLynnette feel vaguely foolish. Then his voice sharpened. â€Å"Like a yowling?† â€Å"No. Like a snuffling.† Mary-Lynnette's breath was slowing. â€Å"I didn't hear anything. We'd better get out ofhere. What are we supposed to say if Jade comes out?† Mary-Lynnette didn't know how to answer that. Mark was in a different world, a happy, shiny world where the worst that could happen tonight was embarrassment. Finally she said â€Å"Mark, listen to me. I'm your sister. I don't have any reason to lie to you, or playtricks on you, or put down somebody you like. AndI don't just jump to conclusions; I don't imagine things. But I'm telling you, absolutely seriously,that there is something weird going on with these girls.† Mark opened his mouth, but she went on relentlessly. â€Å"So now there are only two things you can believe, and one is that I'm completely out of mymind, and the other is that it's true. Do you really think I'm crazy?† She was thinking of the past as she said it, of allthe nights they'd held on to each other when their mother wassick, of the books she'd read out loud tohim, of the times she'd put Band-Aids on his scrapes and extra cookies in his lunch. And somehow, even though it was dark, she could sense that Mark was remembering, too. They'd shared so much. They would always be connected. Finally Mark said quietly, â€Å"You're not crazy.† â€Å"Thank you.† â€Å"But I don't know what to think. Jade wouldn't hurtanybody. I justknow that. And since I met her , .†Hepaused. â€Å"Mare, it's like now I know why I'm alive.She's different from any girl I've ever known. She's ____ she's so brave, and so funny, and so †¦ herself.† And I thought it was the blond hair, MaryLynnette thought. Shows how shallow I am. She was moved and surprised by the change in Mark-but mostly she was frightened. Frightenedsick. Her cranky, cynical brother had found somebody to care about at last †¦ and the girl was probably descended from Lucrezia Borgia. And now, even though she couldn't see him, shecould hear earnest appeal in his voice. â€Å"Mare, can't we just go home?† Mary-Lynnette felt sicker. She broke off and they both snapped their heads to look at the shed window. Outside a light had gone on. â€Å"Shut the door,† Mary-Lynnette hissed, in a tone that made Mark dose the door to the shed instantly. â€Å"And be quiet,- she added, grabbing his arm and pulling him next to the wall. She looked cautiously out the window. Rowan came out of the back door first, followedbyjade,followed by Kestrel. Kestrel had a shovel. Oh. My. God. â€Å"What's happening?† Mark said, trying to get alook. Mary-Lynnette damped a hand over his mouth.What was happening was that the girls were digging up the garden again. She didn't see anything wrapped in garbage bags this time. So what were they doing? Destroying the evidence? Were they going to take it into the houseand burn it, chop it up? Her heart was pounding madly. Mark had scooted up and was looking out. MaryLynnette heard him take a breath-and then choke. Maybe he was trying to think of an innocent explanation for this. She squeezed his shoulder. They both watched as the girls took turns with theshovel. Mary-Lynnette was impressed all over againat how strong they were. Jade looked so fragile. Every time one of the sisters glanced around the garden, Mary-Lynnette's heart skipped a beat. Don't see us, don't hear us, don't catch us, she thought. When a respectable mound of dirt had piled up, Rowan and Kestrel reached into the hole. They lifted out the long garbage-bagged bundle Mary-Lynnettehad seen before. It seemed to be stiff-and surpris ingly light. For the first time, Mary-Lynnette wondered if it was too light to be a body. Or too stiff †¦ how longdid rigor mortis last? Mark's breathing was irregular, almost wheezing.The girls were carrying the bundle to the gap inthe hedge. Mark cursed. Mary-Lynnette's brain was racing. She hissed,†Mark, stay here. I'm going to follow them-â€Å" â€Å"I'm going with you!† â€Å"You have to tell Dad if anything happens to me-â€Å" â€Å"I'm going withyou.† There wasn't time to argue. And something inside Mary-Lynnette was glad to have Mark's strength to back her. She gasped, â€Å"Come on, then. And don't make asound.† She was worried they might have already lost the sisters–it was such a dark night. But when she and Mark squeezed through the gap in the rhododendron bushes, she saw a light ahead. A tiny, bobbing white light. The sisters were using a flashlight. Keep quiet, move carefully. Mary-Lynnette didn'tdare say it out loud to Mark, but she kept thinking it over and over, like a mantra. Her whole consciousness was fixed on the little shaft of light that was leading them, like a comet's tail in the darkness. The light took them south, into a stand of Douglasfir. It wasn't long before they were walking into forest. Where are they going? Mary-Lynnette thought. She could feel fine tremors in her muscles as she tried to move as quickly as possible without making a sound. They were lucky–the floor of this forest was carpeted with needles from Douglas fir and Ponderosa pine. The needles were fragrant and slightly damp and they muffled footsteps. Mary-Lynnette could hardly hear Mark walking behind her except when he hurt himself. They went on for what seemed like forever. It was pitch dark and Mary-Lynnette very quickly lost any sense of where they were. Or how they were going to get back. Oh, God, I was crazy to do this-and to bring Markalong, too. We're out in the middle of the woodswith three crazy girls†¦. The light had stopped. Mary-Lynnette stopped, holding out an arm thatMark immediately ran into. She was staring at thelight, trying to make sure it really wasn't moving away. No. It was steady. It was pointed at the ground. â€Å"Let's get loser,† Mark whispered, putting his lips against Mary-Lynnette's ear. She nodded and began to creep toward the light, as slowly and silently asshe knew how. Every few steps she paused and stood absolutely still, waiting to see if the light was going to turn her way. It didn't. She got down and crawled the last ten feet to the edge of the clearing where the girls had stopped. Once there, she had a good view of what they were doing. Digging. Kestrel had shoveled the pine needles aside and was working on a hole. Mary-Lynnette felt Mark crawl up beside her,crushing sword fern and woodfem. She could feel his chest heaving. She knew he saw what she saw. I'm so sorry. Oh, Mark, I'm so sorry. There was no way to deny it now. Mary-Lynnetteknew. She didn't even need to look in the bag. How am I going to find this place again? When I bring the sheriff back, how am I going to remember it? It's like a maze in one of those computer fantasy games-Mixed Evergreen Forest in every direction,and nothing to distinguish any bit of it from any other bit. She chewed her lip. The bed of moist needles she was lying on was soft and springy-actually comfortable. They could wait here for a long time, until the sisters left, and then mark the trees somehow. Takephotographs. Tie their socks to branches. In the clearing the flashlight beam showed a hand putting down the shovel. Then Rowan and Kestrellifted the garbage-bagged bundle-Jade must beholding the flashlight, Mary-Lynnette thought-and lowered it into the hole. Good. Now cover it up and leave. The beam showed Rowan bending to pick up the shovel again. She began quickly covering the hole with dirt. Mary-Lynnette was happy. Over soon, she thought, and let out a soft breath of relief. And in that instant everything in the clearingchanged. The flashlight beam swung wildly. Mary-Lynnette flattened herself, feeling her eyes widen. She could see a silhouette against the light-golden hair haloed around the face. Kestrel. Kestrel was standing, facing Mark and Mary-Lynnette, her body tense and still. Listening. Listening. Mary-Lynnette lay absolutely motionless, mouthopen, trying to breathe without making a soundThere were things crawling in the soft, springy needlebed under her. Centipedes and millipedes. She didn'tdare move even when she felt something tickle acrossher back under her shirt. Her own ears rang from listening. But the forest was silent †¦ eerily dent. All Mary-Lynnette couldhear was her own heart pounding wildly in herchest-although ft felt as if it were in her throat, too.It made her head bob with its rhythm. She was afraid. And it wasn't just fear. It was something shecouldn't remember experiencing since she was nineor ten. Ghost fear. The fear of something you're not even sure exists. Somehow, watching Kestrel's silhouette In the dark woods, Mary-Lynnette was afraid of monsters.She had aterrible,terrible feeling. Oh, please–I shouldn't have brought Mark here. It was then that she realized that Mark's breathing was making a noise. Just a faint sound, not a whistling, more like a cat purring. It was the sound he'd made as a kid when his lungs were bad. Kestrel stiffened, her head turning, as if to locate a noise. Oh, Mark, no. Don't breathe. Hold your breath-Everything happened very fast. Kestrel sprang forward. Mary-Lynnette saw her silhouette come running and jumping with unbelievable speed. Toofast-nobody moves thatfast .. . nobody human†¦. What are these girls? Her vision came in flashes,as if she were under a strobe light. Kestrel jumping. Dark trees all around. A moth caught in the beam. Kestrel coming down. Protect mark†¦ A deer. Kestrel was coming down on a deer. Mary-Lynnette's mind was filled with jumbled, careening images. Images that didn't make sense. She had a wild thought that it wasn't Kestrel at all, but one of those raptor dinosaurs she'd seen at the movies. Because Kestrel moved like that. Or maybe ftwasn't a deer-but Mary-Lynnette could seethe white at its throat, as pure as a lace ruffle at the throat of a young girl. She could see itsliquid black eyes. The deer screamed. Disbelief. I can't be seeing this†¦. The deer was on the ground, delicate legs thrashing. And Kestrel was tangled with it. Her face buriedin the white of its throat. Her arms around it. The deer screamed again. Wrenched violently.Seemed to be having convulsions. The flashlight beam was all over the place. Then it dropped. At the very edge of the light, Mary-Lynnette could see two other figures join Kestrel.They were all holding the deer. There was one last spasm and it stopped fighting. Everything went still. Mary-Lynnette could see Jade's hair, so fine that individual strands caught the light against the background of darkness. In the silent Bearing the three figures cradled thedeer. Huddling over it. Shoulders moving rhythmically. Mary-Lynnette couldn't see exactly what theywere doing, but the general scene wasf,miliar.She'd seen it on dozens of nature documentaries. About wild dogs or lionesses or wolves. The pack hadhunted and now ft wasfeeding. I have always tried†¦ to bea very good observer. And now, I have to believe my own eyes†¦ . Beside her, Mark's breath wassobbing. Oh, God, let me get him out of here. Please justlet us get out. It was as if she'd been suddenly released from paralysis. Her lip was bleeding again-she must havebitten down on it while she was watchingthe deer.Copperbloodfear filled her mouth. â€Å"Come on,† shegasped almost soundlessly, wiggling backward. Twigs and needles raked her stomachas her T-shirt rode up. She grabbed Mark's arm.†Come onl† Instead, Mark lurched to his feet. â€Å"Mark!† She wrenched herself to her knees andtried to drag him down. He pulled away. Hetook a step toward theclearing. No â€Å"Jade!† He was heading for the clearing. No, Mary-Lynnette thought again, andthen shewas moving after him. They were caught now, andit really didn't matter what he did. Butshe wantedto bewith him. â€Å"Jade!† Mark said and he grabbed the flashlight.He turned it directly on the little huddle at the edgeof the clearing. Three faces turned toward him. Mary-Lynnette's mind reeled. It was one thing toguess what the girls were doing; it was another thingto seeit. Those three beautiful faces, white in the flashlight beam †¦with what looked like smearedlipstick on their mouths and chins. Cardinal red, thimbleberry color. But it wasn't lipstick or burst thimbleberries. It wasblood, and the deer's white neck was stained with it. Eating the deer, they're really eating the deer;oh, God, they're really doing it†¦. Some part of her mind-the part that had absorbedhorror movies-expected the three girls to hiss and cringe away from the light. To block it out with bloodstained hands while making savage faces. It didn't happen. There were no animal noises, nodemon voices, no contortions. Instead, as Mary-Lynnette stood frozen in an agonyof horror, and Mark stood trying to get a normal breath, Jade straightened up. And said, â€Å"What are you guys doing out here?† In a puzzled, vaguely annoyed voice. The way youwould speak to some boy who keeps following you everywhere and asking you for a date. Mary-Lynnette felt her mind spinning off. There was a long silence. Then Rowan and Kestrelstood up. Mark was breathing heavily, moving the flashlight from one of the girls to another, but always coming back to Jade. â€Å"What areyoudoing out here; that's the question!† he said raggedly. The flashlight whipped to the hole, then back tothe girls. â€Å"What are you doing?† â€Å"I asked you first,† Jade said, frowning. If ft hadJust been her, Mary-Lynnette would have started towonder if things were so awful after all. if maybethey weren't in terrible danger. But Rowan and Kestrel were looking at each other,and then at Mark and Mary-Lynnette. And their ex pressions made Mary-Lynnette's throat close. â€Å"You shouldn't have followed us,† Rowan said.She looked grave and sad. â€Å"They shouldn't have beenableto,† Kestrel said.She looked grim. â€Å"It's because they smell like goats,† Jade said. â€Å"What are you doing?†Mark shouted again, almostsobbing. Mary-Lynnette wanted to reach for him, butshe couldn't move. Jade wiped her mouth with the back of her hand.†Well, can't youtell?†She turned to her sisters.†Now what are we supposed todo?† There was a silence. Then Kestrel said, â€Å"We don'thave a choice. We havetokill them.†

Analysis on Overt Covert Racism

Racism is socially constructed in society and is used to differentiate privileges, wealth, and social class amongst individuals. Overt and covert racism have unique distinction in the sense that, one is explicit and the other is implicit. Thus, in today’s society, practices of popular culture account for hegemonic depictions in overt and covert racism. Firstly, overt racism is explicit in the sense that it is intentionally out there to demonstrate differentiations in the individual or group through harm or attacks. Secondly, covert racism could be considered an implicit method in which can be thought of as the effects of overt racism. Furthermore, covert racism in the example of black discrimination would be the generalization or stereotyping of African-Americans by the mass public (non-blacks) who perhaps can be thought of as, â€Å"brainwashed†. Lastly, through social constructionism hegemonic practices can be found in overt and covert racism. With that, White America has effectively socially constructed an ideology that became hegemonic towards the Black community through the effects of overt and covert racism. Racism in, â€Å"Identity and Community† is defined as the concept in which discrimination in human beings is based on physically, biologically, and genetically distinct types. Because of that, racism is the clear distinction of these â€Å"types† which begins the hierarchical distinction between racial groups. Overt racism is depicted in the film, â€Å"Malcolm X† where it is socially constructed such that the ideology that Blacks were an inferior race and should be treated harshly because of their skin color and origins. The manifestation of racism towards Blacks by White America is clearly overt racism as it explicitly and intentionally advocates the discrimination of African-Americans. Not only that, groups such as the Ku Klux Klan in the film are a prime example of overt racism such that they are preaching to the mass public about the inferiority of African-Americans. Thus hegemony in overt racism accounts for the death of Malcolm’s father. Hegemonic practices in the film are depicted in a covert manner such that the persecution of Blacks by the White Americans is accepted by the on-victims. To elaborate, it is not forcing the non-victims of racism to accept the new ideology but because of social constructionism, the idea of stereotypes becomes acceptable. Racism was acceptable in America during the 20th century, thus the power of racism becomes legitimate. In addition, covert hegemonic racism is evident such that â€Å"integration† or assimilation has always existed to be white. This is because it is never White-Americans integrating into black colleges, culture, or neighborhoods, whereas African-Americans are forced into assimilating into the norm. It is in a sense that the bystanders become racially de-sensitized and are then able to become and accept the regime’s ideology, in a hegemonic manner. This in turn may create covert racism, such that the younger generation are educated through social learning theory and are then â€Å"racists† themselves, but may not realize it. In the book, â€Å"White Savagery and Humiliation, or a New Racial Consciousness in the Media†, Newitz further explains that as young children, the world is quickly divided into â€Å"good† and â€Å"bad† objects. This example of early covert racism surfaces in today’s popular culture as parenting and social constructionism continues to shape today’s youth into stereotyping. In comparison to the film, the African-Americans are unable to fulfill and achieve their highest level of social classes because of suppressions and persecutions from the white community. As during the time, it was socially seen to be acceptable to discriminate African-Americans because of social constructionism. In conclusion, hegemonic practices in American Popular Culture are still very resilient and real today in the sense that African-Americans still experience racism regardless of influential movements such as having the first Black President. With that said, overt racism in today’s society is becoming less explicit because of new cultural norms, and social constructionism, whereas covert racism is becoming more prevalent because of its ability to facade itself under a cloak of silent approval. This can be attributed to the idea of â€Å"Decolonization of Culture† in the chapter, â€Å"Introducing Popular Culture† where Szeman and O’Brien notes that during the civil rights movement, social groups have begun to realize the faultlines of stereotyping social norms in race. It is important to note that covert racism will always exist in America, as long as social constructionism permits it. This demonstrates the power social constructionism has in racism which ultimately becomes the foundation of hegemony in African-Americans.

Please answer the four questions about marketing Research Paper

Please answer the four questions about marketing - Research Paper Example Thirdly, each of the exchanging parties has to exude confidence in the value of the items exchanged. For instance, when purchasing a vehicle, the customer has to have confidence that the vehicle would perform beyond their expectations and offer the required utility. Lastly, r both parties have to meet the high expectations as a way to build trust in the transaction, in addition to making the marketing activity successful. A recent marketing exchange that I participated recently was purchasing a mobile phone recently. In the transaction, I had to visit a local distributor dealing in some of the leading phone brands, which actualized the first requirement of a marketing exchange; two parties have to be involved in the exchange. Secondly, I was attracted to the mobile phone due to its enhanced functionality, which promised to be of much value. In this case, I was confident that the phone could satisfy my needs while the distributor would be satisfied by having a piece of his stocks sold at a profit. Thirdly, I was very confident that after reviewing the phone and listening to earlier users, the phone could deliver more value to exceed my satisfaction as I had been disappointed by some earlier models. Lastly, I had to bargain to get the best possible price for the best product, while we finally settled on the last price with each of us meeting and exceeding the expectations. As a result, we established a strong buyer-seller relationship that would be considered for another transaction in the future. Q.2 In strategic planning, an organization sets its mission, goals and a corporate strategy that guides in all its operations until establishment of a sound marketing plan to seal transactions. As such, Pride & Ferrell (2012) detailed the important components to be considered in strategic planning. The first step involves identification of the organization’s strengths,

FDI Mode of Internationalization Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

FDI Mode of Internationalization - Essay Example Tutor Signature: Date: Table of Contents Table of Contents 3 Introduction 4 Foreign market entry modes 4 FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) 4 Exporting 4 Licensing or Franchising 5 Circumstances under which FDI is beneficial over exporting 5 Circumstances under which FDI is beneficial over licensing or franchising 6 Conclusion 7 Introduction Organizations or firms that operate in the international market place are required to make decisions that are related to the mode of entry in the international market place or foreign market. The following paper includes the discussion about the factors and issues that are faced for making the choice of the mode of international market entry. The organizations needs to analyze the potential factors and issues that impact the organization by selecting a particular mode of going international. Mainly the mode of going international includes the FDI (Foreign Direct Investments), franchising or licensing and exporting. The paper includes the factors or circumstances under which the organizations must prefer to internationalize via foreign direct investment rather than the other modes of internationalizations. Foreign market entry modes The modes to enter the foreign market differs with the degree of risk they present, the level of control and the commitment of resources the mode of internationalization require and also the return on investment they provide. There are different modes through which organizations can internationalize their business this mainly includes FDI, franchising or licensing and exporting (Stiglitz 2006). Each mode has certain advantages and disadvantages, which needs to be evaluated before selecting a mode of internationalization for business. The whole entry mode is divided into equity modes and non equity modes. The equity modes include FDI’S, joint ventures etc, while the non equity modes include exporting, franchising, or licensing etc (Bakan 2007). FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) In simple terms F DI can be defined as the investment process where residents of one nation or country acquire ownership of assets of the firm in some other country or nation for the purpose of controlling interest in the production, distribution and other activities. It can also be said to be as the acquisition of lasting interest in a firm operating in an economy other than the home economy or of the investor in order to have a hold in the management of the enterprise (Ravenhill 2008). The major factors explained in the definitions above include controlling interest. So the main factor that is included for the use of the FDI as a source of international investment over other modes of internationalization is the element of control on the policies and decisions of management (Zekiri and Angelova 2011). Exporting Exporting in simple terms can be said to be as the process of selling of goods and products or services produced in domestic country to other country. Exporting is done in the form of direct and indirect exporting. In indirect exporting the products are sold in the original or modified form from one nation to another, while in direct exporting includes selling of products and services directly through the use of direct distribution channels (Mosa 2012). Licensing or Franchising Under the franchising internationalization mode the organizations sells limited rights to the franchisees to utilize the brand name of the organization in return for a lump sum amount of payment and also with the

Healthcare for Multiple Sclerosis Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Healthcare for Multiple Sclerosis - Assignment Example The goals address quality, competitiveness, research, innovation and advancing the purpose of the organization. They reflect the values and vision of the organization. Their achievement is important in the battle against multiple sclerosis at the organizational and societal level. The first goal of Jackson Center for Multiple Sclerosis focuses on the indiscriminate delivery of quality healthcare. As a result, the organization shall develop a policy to serve everyone who seeks its services. This is an implementation strategy. The second alternative strategy involves the participation in established quality and customer delivery study. This is a competitive strategy that enables the organization to measure the quality of their healthcare and customer service (Kelkar, 2010). Lastly, the centre will need to develop an implementation strategy for evaluating the quality and fairness of its service. Customer feedback is the greatest measure of the quality of service provided by an organization (Thomas& Applegate, 2010). The second goal addresses the objective of the organization to be the best healthcare provider in multiple sclerosis. In order to achieve this goal, an adaptive strategy called vertical integration needs to be applied so as to reduce costs and enhance the competitiveness of the organization (Harrigan&Harrigan, 2003). Another adaptive strategy will be the automation of routine tasks to increase efficiency at the hospital. In addition, there will be a competitive strategy which involves attracting the best talent in the industry. The third goal states the aim to be a leading research centre for multiple sclerosis. Firstly, the centre will have to adopt a market entry strategy for developing its internal research capacity by raising the capital expenditure required and the ability of its staff to research. Secondly, it will collaborate with learning institutions, which is an adaptive strategy.  

Why did the social war between Rome and her Italian allies break out Essay

Why did the social war between Rome and her Italian allies break out in 90 BC - Essay Example The crisis eventually culminated into a social war in 90 BC. It is called the social war because it was between Rome and its allies. According to Salmon (1958), the social war between Rome and her Italian allies was waged between 91 and 88 BC; it was mainly between several cities in Italy and the Roman Republic (162). Before the war, the Italian cities had been Roman allies for many centuries. Fundamentally, the ancient Rome’s Italian allies who were against the Roman franchise had waged the war. Previously, the allies in southern and central Italy had fought with Rome in various wars and therefore they had grown restive under the autocratic rule in Rome. Their allies were interested in gaining the Roman citizenship and the privileges that come along with it (Ogilvie, 1980, 18). In 91 BC, in a bid to pursue this interest, Marcus Drusus, the Roman tribune, attempted to solve this problem through a legislation proposal that would have ensured that all Italians are admitted to citizenship. This proposal led to a furious debate in the Senate; those opposed to it were so bitter that they assassinated Drusus. As a result, the Italian allies were frustrated and rose into revolt (Brunt 1971, 13). It is important to first understand the situation between Rome and Italian alliances prior to the war. Gabba (1976) observes that the Early Italian campaigns of between 458 and 396 BC saw the conquest of Italy by the Romans thus resulting into a collection of alliances between the Italian communities, cities, and Rome. The alliances collection was on favourable terms influenced by whether a certain city had been defeated in war or if its alliance with Rome was voluntary. Theoretically, these cities were independent but in practice, Rome had authority over them as it had the right the right to demand tribute money from them, and their desirable number of soldiers. Two centuries later, two- thirds of Roman soldiers were from the Italian allies. This meant that

The Circle of Memory in My Papa's Waltz Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

The Circle of Memory in My Papa's Waltz - Essay Example Readers now begin to wonder, does the waltz dance ignites a painful memory for the speaker or happy memory? Does the waltz dance bring out the father’s clumsiness and a moment of fun with the speaker, or does it bring out issues of alcoholism and child abuse? Therefore, waltz becomes the center of the themes that it portrays while at the same time, becoming the center of controversy. One way, that depicts the use of waltz to complicate the father-son relationship, is through the argument that the speaker remembers his father's bouts of drunken behavior and how they affected him as a child. Another side of argument views that the waltz depicts the love between the father and son, since the former, despite his heavy drinking after a day’s hard work, got time to spend and dance with his son. However, in the first argument, the speaker remembers how his father slapped him around due to his inebriated state, also, that he became violent after drinking too much. Memory plays a vital role in the poem as the speaker is a grown man who remembers his childhood experiences. The subjective lens of memory reveals that the speaker perceives his father's â€Å"waltz† differently now than he did as a child. The speaker also expresses how he felt confused by his father's behavior as a child. As a child, the speaker views his father's violence as actually being a display of emotion and affection. He explains how his childhood perception of his father allowed him to confuse his father's violence with dancing. The waltz symbolizes how the speaker views his father's behavior differently as an adult as he acknowledges how his father had a strange, troubling way of expressing his love and affection. The circle of memory is inseparable from the speaker's view of the waltz as a strange, tenuous bond he had with his father. This represents confusion, not only to the reader, but also to the speaker. Since the poem is a memory of when he was young, the waltz seems to represent something different from when the speaker was young. As stated earlier, the use of waltz in the poem is purposely used to complicate the relationship between the father and the speaker. This also implies that the speaker is also confused by the meaning of the dance. His view about the dance then seems to have changed now that he is fully grown. However still, confusion lingers on his memories. The waltz reveals that the speaker's memory of his father changes over time, and hence that the â€Å"beat† of his father's fist is part of the beat of the speaker's memory. The father's movements reveal that he is intoxicated as he is moving around the room aimlessly. Similarly, the speaker's memory wanders in aimless circles in his attempt to decipher the full meaning of his father's behavior. The speaker's endeavor to find certainty regarding his father's waltz reveals his desire for objectivity. The following lines reveal that he desires to be as objective about his view o f his father in the same way that death is objective about life: â€Å"The whiskey on your breath / Could make a small boy dizzy; But I hung on like death: Such waltzing was not easy† (Roethke & Snodgrass 1-4). The speaker realizes that finding objectivity is an arduous task as his father's ambiguous display of emotion leaves him confused. He comes to terms with how his perception of his father lacks the necessary objectivity of factual truth. The poem illustrates

International Sales Contracts Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

International Sales Contracts - Essay Example Contract of sale is explicit and aid in deciding the issues, there are circumstances where the intention of the parties do matter apart from the legal terms forming part of the contract of sale. However as has been pointed out by Lord Wright in Ross T Smyth and Co Ltd Bailey, Son and Co1 the intention of the parties cannot be subjected to any proof; rather the intentions can be ascertained â€Å"from the terms of the contract, the conduct of the parties and the circumstances of the case.† This paper brings out the implications of the observations of Lord Wright about the intentions of the parties to a contract of sale with regard to the FOB and CIF contracts and also the improvements if any brought about by section 20A newly introduced by the Sale of Goods (Amendment) Act 1995 on the position of the CIF buyer of bulk goods. According to the basic principle in the law relating to the contract of sale, all the terms of the contract depends entirely on the intention of the parties to the contract. Though this situation is true in a number of cases this position is usually forgotten by the parties involved. However such intentions cover even the terms governing the time at which the title and risk pass to the buyer. Hence it can be stated that only under the circumstances where the intention of the parties is not clear or if the agreement between them is silent the law relating to the sale of goods provides the missing terms to conclude the contract or settle the dispute if any. This position of importance given to the intention of the parties in a contract of sale is recognized even by the common law statutes and the civil codes. Under the Sale of Goods Act 1979, the ‘intention of the parties’ has been referred to in a number of instances. Under section 10 the phrases â€Å"unless a different intention appears from the terms of the contract† are being used. Sections 17(1), 18 and 20 of the Sale of Goods Act 1979 also have used the intention of the parties.

Long listening assignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Long listening assignment - Essay Example The signature line of this song involved the simultaneous playing of the tenor trumpet (Dizzy) and the alto Saxophone (Sonny) at a difference of an octave. The octave effect is pronounced all throughout the songs whenever the noted of the opening line notation is played. The opening line is played twice in the beginning of the piece and is used as a closing stanza in the performance. Another noteworthy feature of the opening lines is that when the trumpet-saxophone combination plays the notes the drums, bass and piano remain on mute, and when the trumpet-saxophone goes on mute, the drum, bass and piano repeat the same rhythm. This gives the jazz rendition a question-answer feel, as if the trumpet-saxophone combination was engaged in a conversation with the rhythm section of the jazz band. The opening line also known as the signature phrase or signature line of the jazz composition starts at 0:09 seconds of the video documentary. Dizzy Gillespie and Sonny Stitt are seen taking the cen tre front of the stage, leading the Jazz Quintet. The audience is quiet and well settled and seen enjoying the dextrous rendition of classical jazz of this Quintet. At the back row are the following artistes: pianist Lou, bassist Ray and drummer Gus lined up left to right. The composition is based on medium tempo on duple (4/4 rhythm). The first line is rendered from 0:09 to 0:35 seconds of the video. The signature line is repeated again from 0:35 to 1:05. The rhythm accompaniment begins at 1:00 on the completion of the first stanza or the opening stanza (consisting of 2 repetitions of the signature line). The first solo commences from 1:32. Dizzy Gillespie plays the first solo that sets the expectations from this musical piece. Once Dizzy starts playing the timbre, texture and original tonal quality of the trumpet can be identified. He starts playing from the higher octave. The notes played by Dizzy are clear, bold and distinct from one another. His style represents clarity and con fidence. He does well in varying the amplitude and therefore the emphasis on certain notes by controlling the air pressure through light whistles and hard blows into the trumpet pipe. Dizzy remain calm, composed and relaxed throughout the performance. He takes time from until 2:02 seconds playing with the tempo and at a slow pace. He is seen smiling at the audience and his fellow-performers, turning left to Sonny and saying something to him between 2:00 and 2:03 seconds of the video. He demonstrates stunning control over his instrument at 2:16 playing an impromptu solo, manoeuvring the trumpet keys and weaving a fantastic note progression involving chromatic note progression (i.e., playing consecutive notes to create a dissonance). From 2:35 to 2:45 Dizzy moves along with the rhythm and creates beautiful composition and at 2:46 he plays a dissonant pattern. Once again at 3:16 Dizzy pulls off an incredibly fast and tough solo putting the audience at awe. From 3:35 till 3:40 amplitude modulation is brought out in its best form by regulating the air pressure. Dizzy modulates the pitch and frequency with ease. At 3:46 he gracefully pulls of another sweep of note progression. A gradual descent in the form 4 repetitions down the higher and middle conclude his solo exactly at 4:00 of the video. At this point in time Sonny Stitt takes the centre stage with his solo on the saxophone. The

Future of Bioenergy Essay Example for Free

Future of Bioenergy Essay In moving towards the modern era, there are many things and aspects should be taken into account to guarantee that a country is in a stable condition and progress without investing too much money in the certain sectors. So, to ensure that the development of a country can run smoothly, the government needs to control the financial resources well and also they need to make sure the necessary resources provided to the public are adequate and meet the needs of the people in that country. One of the best ways to achieve the mission of creating a developing country in terms of economic development and environmentally friendly is by using the renewable energy systems where it can use to support the energy resources that cannot be renewed plus the amount of it, is getting reduced from time to time. By applying this good alternative method, it can save a million of money and leads the country to the Green Energy living way. There are large quantities of renewable energy resources that can be found in Ireland, but just part of these resources already been discovered and commercialized well in Ireland. To reduce the dependency on imported fuels, fossil fuels like oil, coal and natural gas and also reducing harmful greenhouse emission, sustainable alternative is recommended. â€Å"Renewable Energy,† 2012) As one of the easiest and best renewable energy to accommodate this strategy is by develop the Bioenergy as it can be a good resource to supply alternative energy and supply a significant proportion of the energy needs as well as provide a momentous proportion of energy needs, generate many public benefits for the country together with environmental enrichment, augmented variety of renewable alternatives and also regional economic development benefits. Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland or formally known as SEAI play a good role in this production. They do develop the renewable energy industry in Ireland by playing a leading role of transforming Ireland into a society based on sustainable energy structures, technologies and practices. (â€Å"About Us New,† 2012) Bio-Energy Bio-Energy is referring to the cellular material from living or dead organisms. It is an extensive resource and it can be divided into wastes and purpose grown material like so; I.  Waste streams including a small amount of forestry and related industries, recycled wood, agricultural residues and agrifood effluents, manures, the organic fraction of municipal solid waste, separated household waste and sewage slush. II. Purpose grown energy crops including short rotation forestry, Miscanthus grass, etc. (â€Å"Briefing Note on Biomass,†2002) The EU Directive on Sustainable Electricity from RES (where they do the promotion of electricity produced from renewable energy sources in the internal electricity market 2000/0116 (COD), 2001. defines biomass as including the biodegradable fraction of products, wastes and residues from agriculture (including vegetal and animal substances), forestry and related industries, as well as the biodegradable fraction of industrial and municipal waste. (â€Å"Briefing Note on Biomass,†2002) It is perhaps worth noting here, in terms of the cross scattered nature of biomass as noted above, that The European Council Directive on Landfill of Waste (1999) requires Member States to formulate a strategy in favor of reducing the amount of biodegradable waste going to landfill. Under the Directive, landfill gas will have to be collected from all landfills receiving biodegradable waste and it will use to produce energy or be burned. Irish targets outlined by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) over a fifteen year time-scale include a 65% reduction in biodegradable wastes consigned to landfill, as well as an 80% reduction in methane emissions from landfill. Therefore, this directive points towards the increased utilization of landfill gas for energy in the near term while at the same time restricting its potential as a long term source of energy. Currently, there are few of the agencies who concern about the challenges that we face in our new era regarding to the reduction of non-renewable energy sources like coal, oil and natural gases. Lots of the strategic plan has already come out on upgrading the energy usage and also in consuming the renewable energy sources from the natural resources which are still available in our surroundings. By focusing more seriously in a few sources that have a great potential to cover up the non-renewable energy resource and also it has a better opportunity to become a great supplier in the renewable energy sources industry, Republic of Ireland come out with their own strategies. Plus, there are fewer of challenges that almost of the countries need to face it right now including Ireland. For example, they need to be struggling with the climate changes and the increasing of greenhouse gas emission which is one of the big issues among public, government of Ireland need to face with the rising of energy costs as they also facing with the falling competitiveness among the other countries because of the currency of the Euro is falling down. Other than that, they also depend more with the imported oil and other fossil fuels with the security of supply should be noted. From these things happens, it makes the life more complicated and tough. So, from here it leads the Ireland to move into the other step which is closer to making this country as one of the environmental safely places to live by developing the Bioenergy industry as one of the best alternative way to overcome those problems stated. As Ireland have a strong strategy and well arranged future planning to carry out the energy from a certain resources like agriculture wastes and recycled products, it can lead the country to achieve the best environment with a green environmental friendly. Based on the Bio-Energy Roadmap published by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), Bio-Energy will be one the fundamental and essential element that will contribute more to Ireland’s future energy requirements and needs together provide significant economic and environmental benefits. From the words of Chief Executive Officer of SEAI; Prof. J Owen Lewis, he wrote that ; Ireland already has an active Bioenergy sector, with increasing use in industry, transport and in our homes. This is just the beginning. Much of the energy and climate debate focuses on short term goals, as it should. However, energy is a long term issue involving infrastructure and investment decisions with far-reaching consequences. There is, I believe, growing understanding of the changes we are facing and of the need to start acting now. I also think many people realize that, far from being purely a risk or a challenge, this process of change is a huge opportunity for Ireland. An export-oriented high value sector will find plenty of markets seeking to solve the same energy issues we face here in Ireland. Ireland is well-placed to be a leader in Bioenergy, but we must act if we are to secure this position. (J. Owen Lewis, 2010) So from the statement stated, it proves that Bioenergy got a great potential to be developed and build up more seriously. The point of view is how can we get into it in achieving the mission and goal as it is one of the best ways in Ireland to support the non-renewable energy in this country. The government and people should start to think it more seriously because of the non-renewable resources is not increasing from time to time but it will decrease from the next becoming years. From the diagram below, it shows that how the graph of the total energy primary demand scenario in Ireland that keeps increasing from 2010 to 2050 and this data are based on the data collection from 2010, 2020 NREAP; 2050 SEAI Bioenergy Roadmap. Diagram 1 : The total of Bioenergy demand scenario for an 80% reduction in CO2 emission by 2050. (2010, 2020 NREAP; 2050 SEAI Bioenergy Roadmap) Table 1 : The percentage of Bioenergy demand according to the sector provided in Ireland. (2010, 2020 NREAP; 2050 SEAI Bioenergy Roadmap) Based on the chart and and also the table shown above, we can see that the high demand of the Bioenergy industry is giving a positive responds and data. The value of the demand keeps increasing from year to year till it achieve a first phase of 2020 and at 2050, it shows that the percentage of every sector is attaining more than 20% of demand. From the explanation taken in the Bioenergy Roadmap 2010 – 2050, the bioenergy demand to 2050 has been forecast using specialist in-house modelling, with the impact of technology development considered to determine the primary bioenergy demand. The main goal of the 2050 model is to indicate the challenge and the need for an action if we are attending to achieve the internationality discussed of 80% reduction in CO2 emissions to curb global warming. What is presented in the Bioenergy Roadmap is just one possible scenario of how we can approach this challenge, and the contribution of bioenergy (Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), 2010). There are few of key findings and conclusions that have been highlight in the planning of developing bioenergy industry in future, such as; I. Bioenergy have a good quality potential in being one of the best indigenously energy resources for the national country that can be use in providing necessity energy to the country until 2050 especially related with the few of sector like transportation, electricity generation and also heat. II. There are more than 3500ktoe of original resources that can be obtained for Bioenergy supply chain by 2050. III. Bioenergy is highly suitable for the inclusion of the national distribution energy network. IV. Bioenergy industry has a most excellent role in perpetuating rural area development and improvement of employment. V.  There will be more than 11 Mt of CO2 that can be reduced or abated every year. VI. Existing resources can be enhance rapidly through the policies and actions across energy, waste, forestry, agriculture and RDD. VII. Allocation of bioenergy can be maximized by giving full support and investing in research and innovation in developing the various of bioenergy technologies and processes. VIII. A complete established energy infrastructure will be minimized a cost of competitive bioenergy sector distribution and allocation. IX. Bioenergy industry will be supported in developing best practicing of management for energy purposes. X. Develop the existing systems of bioenergy that can maximize the utilization of available bio-mass. (Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), 2010) By referring to the key findings stated in the SEAI Bioenergy Roadmap 2010 – 2050, the aims and missions in making the Bioenergy industry as one of the best potential alternatives that can support the existing non-renewable energy resources can be fully achieve if we can see the high potential of Bioenergy in the future and give full cooperation and support to realize it in the upcoming few years. So, let give full effort and show our support in making the Bioenergy industry as one of the best alternative way to accommodate the existing resources that from day to day it keep decreasing. Best strategies should BE come out and take over this problems, so that it can be realize in future for our own community purposes.

Hiring Gets Off on the Right Foot Essay Example for Free

Hiring Gets Off on the Right Foot Essay Nike has adapted their employee selection techniques by using a computer-based interviewing system that aims to select suitable applicants for a specific job (Bohlander, 2007, p. 284). The said system can be very useful to the company’s human resources department since it makes their job a lot easier. However, the efficiency and effectiveness of the said process should still be proven. Generally, the said computer-generated interview can be very beneficial both to the applicant and human resource department. Nevertheless, it also has some setbacks although these setbacks are negligible and can be ironed out. The computer-based interviewing system is applicable especially to large companies like Nike; on the other hand, a company should not solely rely on this type of employee selection process. Other ways of employee selection should still be utilized such as accepting walk-ins in a personal interview rather than a computerized one. Analysis The computer-assisted interviewing system tries to narrow down the selection of qualified applicants to a minimum so that the human resource department need not spend time on all applicants (Bohlander, 2007, p. 285). This is successfully met by the said system since modern high technology usually reduces the clutter of office work. As in the case of Nike, computer-based interviews can be of great help if the number of applicants is really large. By doing so, few people are needed in the human resources department. Also, by subjecting the applicant’s to this computer interview, human resource managers will have the idea how the applicants cope or adapt with technology. Are they computer literate and able to keep up with the idea of a computer interviewing them? Do they easily understand instruction by merely looking and reading at a computer monitor? These are some of the questions that can be answered by employing such a process. In addition, the three customer-related scenarios in the computer-generated interview are very practical and realistic scenarios to test the applicant’s approach to the real job at hand. The system has many advantages as has been pointed out in the previous discussion, yet, it also has some weaknesses. One very important factor in choosing the right person for the job is his emotional health. Using the computer-generated interview, Nike cannot account the applicant’s emotions and feelings while the interview is going on. Thus, the computer cannot tell the company of the level of confidence an applicant has when the interview is done. Furthermore, there will always be Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) concerns when it comes to employment selection processes. In this case at hand, the company surely provides EEO since the computer is not programmed to unjustly cater to a selected group of applicants. Thus, discrimination that a human resource officer may unconsciously bring when interviewing an applicant may be eliminated. Recommendations On the whole, the computer-based interviewing system is beneficial if it is used hand in hand with other types or ways of employee selection. However, on its own, it is very inefficient. It can be suggested that personal interviews should still be employed by the company since this kind of interview are the most spontaneous and revealing. Also, to further develop the computer-based interviewing system, besides the printout, it will be better if the company will include a video camera that could record the features, facial expressions and gestures that an applicant may have while answering questions. By doing so, the applicants emotional aspect can also be observed. A psychology test can also be included in the computer-based interview to evaluate the person’s emotional health. Summary and Conclusion Positively, the computer-based interviewing system is a great innovative for the human resource department of the company. As the number of applicants for a particular job increases, the feasibility of this method also increases. However, it is still insisted that the computer-generated interview should not be the sole factor in selecting the right person for the job. Personal interviews will always be more helpful. Surely, Nike should be concerned that the interview they are doing is far from public relations. Public relations require people in the process, also, an interview is a conversation between two people, however, the computer is not a human being, and it is only a machine. Therefore, the computer-based interview is one of the means of employee selection but it is not the end. It is only one way of the many methods an effective complex employment selection may have. References Bohlander, G. , Snell, S. (2007). Managing Human Resources, 14th Ed. Mason, USA: Thomson South-Western.

Marketing Analysis Of Singapore Airlines

Marketing Analysis Of Singapore Airlines The airline industry is one of the fast growing industries in the world irrespective of its criticism. The genesis of aviation in 1909 was by the Wright brothers who flew their first successful flight in Kitty Hawk. Due to the risk involved, numbers of people did not consider travelling by air not until the 1900s. Another breakthrough was that of Charles Lindbergh who flew and completed a journey across the Atlantic Ocean in 1927. The United States postal service as well contributed to the aviation/airline growth. Kelly Airmail Act allowed transport mails from one destination to another in 1925. There was a major issue with increase in air collision which brought about an Act by the Federal Aviation Administration in 1958. Another discouraging issue was the increase in the price of fuel in the 1970s. During the early 1980s there another deregulation was introduced which brought about mergers of large carriers and growth of smaller ones. In the early 1990s, peoples confidence returned and there was an increase in the number of passengers due to price cut and cities served by airline were increased.   Singapore Airline Singapore airline along with its subsidiaries is basically engaged in passenger and cargo air transportation, engineering services, airport terminal services; they are also involved in training their staffs, tour wholesaling and other activities. Singapore airline operates in the Eastern part of Asia with about 30,088 staffs as on March 31, 2008 according to market research. The revenue recorded by the company was $15,975.5 million during the financial year ended march 2008 which yield an increase of 10.2% compared to 2007. The operating profit of the company was $2,124.5 million in 20008 with a decrease of 3.8% compared to 2007. http://www.marketresearch.com/product/display INNOVATIVE STRATEGIES MISSION STATEMENT: In some organization just like Singapore airline, the vision and objectives and the master plan in order to achieve all achievable is referred to as innovative strategic plan. Innovative strategic planning is a management process which simply can be identified as taking inputs and transforming it as output. The input can be defined as information which is understood by the organization, its environment and its management. The transformation of the information is referred to as the innovative strategic planning and lastly, the output is the defined innovation. According to the mission statement of Singapore airline, it addresses the organizations basic goal i.e. the kind of business they are into. The purpose of the organization was clearly defined and stated which comprises of the potential activities the company is engaged in. The mission statement of Singapore airline is to provide air transportation services of the highest quality and to maximise returns for the benefit of its shareholders and employers. Pillay, J. (1989) Nature of innovation of Singapore airline Clarity and commitment: the quality services to customers are clearly stated and it is companys fundamental objective and aspiration which has made them provide a world-class customer service due to their commitment. Continuous training: in order to meet up with customer needs and challenges, Singapore airline set up training centres for their staffs thereby offering a wide range of educational programs. Career development: there is every opportunity to learn and grow in the company, senior managers are allowed to develop as well Internal communication: Singapore airline employed people from different cultural background to work together in achieving the goal and objectives of the company. In order to maintain good and healthy communication. Singapore airline published departmental newsletters and magazines whereby creating regular dialog between management and staffs. Consistent external communications: when there is a new development in the company and needs to be advertised, the Singapore airline girls are always featured which is the brand identity of the company Connection with customers: several medium is being employed to communicate and carry customers along such as in-flight surveys, reply to compliments and complaints received, sending messages to flyers of offers and privileges which includes additional baggage allowance, priority seating and more. Benchmarking: keeping an open eye for improvement and new ways or strategic means of satisfying customers by following the steps of banks, hotels and retail outlets growth. Improvement, investment innovation: Singapore airline came about a different way of doing things by introducing free drinks and headsets, fax machines on board, individual video screens and telephones in every seat, leading edge gaming and in-flight entertainment. Rewards and recognition: Excellent staffs are being rewarded for their performance and selfless acts of service. Professionalism, pride and profits: Singapore airline has been able to achieve a remarkable result due to staff commitment to the airline and to customers. The airlines reputation is being protected by the staffs as well. Chan, D. (2000) Wirtz, J., Johnston, R. (2003) SNAP SHOT OF SINGAPORE AIRLINE http://s3files.core77.com/blog/images/sa3803.jpg From www.google.com/singaporeairlineimages Comfort ability FIRST HAND DATA Through the means of email and telephone interview, I was able to collect the following first hand data directly from the public affairs department in Singapore from the 5th to the 9th of September 2009. Question 1: Since its establishment, Singapore Airlines has earned a reputation as an innovative market leader, combining quality products with excellent service. In brevity, please explain the history of Singapore airline since its early days from 1947 till date? Answer: A Brief History The Early Days Singapore Airlines history can be traced back to 1st May 1947, when a Malayan Airways Limited (MAL) Airspeed Consul took off from Singapore Kallang Airport on the first of three scheduled flights a week to Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh and Penang. Over the next five years, larger capacity DC-3 aircraft were introduced. This meant faster and more comfortable flights, and the extension of services further afield to destinations in Indonesia, Vietnam, Burma (now Myanmar), North Borneo (Sabah) and Sarawak. Inflight refreshments improved from the original thermos flask of iced water to sandwiches, biscuits and cold cuts plus a choice of hot and cold drinks, and alcoholic beverages served by a lone hostess. Known as female pursers, these hostesses are the forerunners of todays Singapore Girl. The 1950s 1960s More new aircraft were added to the fleet in the 1950s and 1960s, the period leading up to the jet age. Among these were the DC-4 Skymaster, Vickers Viscount, Lockheed Super Constellation, Bristol Britannia, Comet IV and Fokker F27. On 16 September 1963, the Federation of Malaysia was born and the Airline became known as Malaysian Airways Limited. In May 1966, it became Malaysia-Singapore Airlines (MSA). In 1968, for the first time, annual revenue hit S$100 million. The sarong kebaya uniform for air hostesses, designed by French couturier Pierre Balmain, was introduced and three B707s were added to the fleet. The Airlines Boeing age began in 1969 with the purchase of five B737-100s. The 1970s The 1970s got underway with a bang: on 2nd June 1971, MSAs first transcontinental flight took off for London. In 1972, MSA split up to become two new entities Singapore Airlines and Malaysian Airline System (MAS). The rest of the decade was devoted to growth and consolidation of the newly-established Singapore Airlines. The fleet was expanded to include B747s, B727s and DC10s. To provide more efficient ground services at Paya Lebar Airport, a subsidiary company, Singapore Airport Terminal Services (SATS) was set up. A B747 hangar and airfreight terminal was opened in 1977. The 1980s The move to the new Singapore Changi Airport from Paya Lebar on 1st July 1981 was a big event. Two years later, Airline House, Singapore Airlines corporate headquarters in the Changi Airfreight Centre, was officially opened. The first Singapore Airlines A300 Superbus went into service in February 1981 and the first B747-300 in May 1983. The first B757 and the first A310-200 arrived in November 1984. In 1989, Singapore Airlines became the first airline to operate a B747-400 on a commercial flight across the Pacific. Tradewinds, a Singapore Airlines subsidiary, became Singapores second airline in February 1989. It has since been renamed SilkAir and has an established network of 29 destinations in the region. The 1990s Singapore Airlines commenced operations from the new Terminal 2 at Singapore Changi Airport on 22 November 1990, with the arrival of SQ23 from Amsterdam. In September 1998, Singapore Airlines set new standards in air travel by unveiling a new suite of product and services worth S$500 million across all three classes of travel, offering customers enhanced standards of service on the ground and new levels of comfort, cuisine and entertainment in the air. In 1999, Singapore Airlines launched KrisFlyer, its first proprietary frequent flyer programme, which allows First, Business and Economy Class customers to earn mileage credits. The 2000s In February 2004, Singapore Airlines inaugurated its first Airbus 340-500 by setting a record for operating the worlds longest non-stop commercial flight from Singapore to Los Angeles. The Airline bettered the record barely half a year later, in July 2004, when it launched the non-stop Singapore to New York (Newark) flight. Singapore Airlines currently operates 77 Boeing 777s, consisting of 12 B777-300s, 19 B777-300ERs , 31 B777-200s and 15 B777-200ERs. In October 2006, Singapore Airlines launched a comprehensive suite of new generation cabin products comprising the worlds widest First and Business Class full-flat seat products, a new Economy Class seat, and the next generation of KrisWorld inflight entertainment system. On 15 October 2007, Singapore Airlines took delivery of the worlds first A380 at the Airbus Headquarters in Toulouse. Singapore Airlines was the first airline to operate out of Changi Airport Terminal 3 in January 2008. The Airline currently operates out of both the new terminal and Terminal 2. In May 2008, Singapore Airlines created history again by being the first carrier to operate an all-Business Class service between Asia and the USA with its launch of all-Business class non-stop flights from Singapore to New York (Newark). Three months later, in August 2008, the Airline introduced this all-Business Class non-stop service to Los Angeles. On 21 January 2009, Singapore Airlines received the first of 19 new A330-300 aircraft in Toulouse, France. The aircraft is configured in a two class layout, with 30 new Business Class seats, and 255 Economy Class seats. The planes currently serve the regional and medium-haul routes between Singapore and cities in Australia (Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth) and Japan (Nagoya). The Airline will commence daily A330-300 services to Osaka in early 2010. Public Affairs Department Singapore Airlines Ltd (2009) Question 2: What are your innovative strategies in terms of your products and services? Answer: Product and Service Excellence Excellence in customer service has been integral to Singapore Airlines success. Superb in-flight service is the cornerstone of its reputation for customer service and hospitality. Singapore Airlines has also developed a reputation as an industry trendsetter. The list of industry-leading innovations by Singapore Airlines includes: First to offer free headsets, a choice of meals and free drinks in Economy Class, in the 1970s First to fly non-stop from London to Singapore in 1984, and the first to fly non-stop from Singapore to London in 1989 First to fly non-stop across the Pacific between Hong Kong and San Francisco in 1989 First to introduce satellite-based in-flight telephones in 1991 First to introduce KrisWorld, a state-of-the-art inflight entertainment and communications system across all three classes in 1995 First to involve a comprehensive panel of world-renowned chefs, the International Culinary Panel, in developing inflight meals in 1998 First to bring high quality theatre-style surround sound to inflight movie viewing in all three classes with Dolby Technologies in 1999 First to offer audio and video on demand (AVOD) capabilities on KrisWorld in all classes in October 2001 First to operate the worlds longest non-stop commercial flight between Singapore and Los Angeles in February 2004 on the A340-500, and then surpassing the record (in terms of distance) later that year with the non-stop service to New York (Newark) in June 2004 First to introduce the Berlitz ® World Traveler interactive language learning programme on all A340-500 aircraft in July 2004 First in the world to launch the next generation KrisWorld inflight entertainment system on Panasonic Avionics Corporations eX2à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢ platform in October 2006 First to fly the A380 from Singapore to Sydney on 25 October 2007. Public Affairs Department Singapore Airlines Ltd (2009). Question 3: Globally, what impact has the company made so far in respect to innovative ideas? Answer: Global Network The Singapore Airlines route network extends across 98 destinations in 40 countries, including those served by Singapore Airlines Cargo and the regional airline subsidiary, SilkAir. On 1st April 2000, Singapore Airlines joined the Star Alliance network as part of its globalization strategy and continual commitment to offer its customers improved services and benefits, including seamless air travel worldwide. Modern Fleet Singapore Airlines fleet today comprises A380-800s, A340-500s, A330-300s, B747-400s, B777-300s, B777-300ERs, B777-200s and B777-200ERs. It is the result of a series of large orders made in the 1990s, as part of an ambitious fleet renewal and expansion strategy. The orders included a US$10.3 billion order for 22 B747-400s and 30 A340-300s in 1994, a US$12.7 billion order for 77 B777s in 1995 and a US$2.2 billion order for 10 A340-500s in 1998. Singapore Airlines reinforced its commitment to fleet upgrading and expansion by placing a series of orders for a range of new generation aircraft in recent years, including: 25 Airbus A380-800 (10 in fleet, 9 on firm order and 6 on option) 40 Airbus A350 XWB-900 (20 firm and 20 on option) 40 Boeing 787-9 (20 firm and 20 on purchase rights) 19 Boeing 777-300 Extended Range (all in fleet) Singapore Airlines became the first in the world to take delivery and fly the super-jumbo A380-800 aircraft in October 2007. Singapore Airlines has one of the youngest fleets of any major airline, with an average age of 6 years and one month as at 1 September 2009. Singapore Airlines Cargo, a wholly-owned subsidiary, operates a fleet of 12 B747-400 Freighters. SilkAir, also a wholly-owned subsidiary, operates a fleet of 16 aircraft, including ten Airbus A320-200s and six Airbus A319-100s. Public Affairs Department Singapore Airlines Ltd (2009). Question 4: Without leaving out the financial aspect of it, what were your innovative ideas in terms of management of funds? Answer: Financial Strength Prudent management has helped Singapore Airlines maintain a healthy financial position and return a profit in every year of its operation. For the financial year ended 31 March 2009, the Singapore Airlines Group recorded an operating profit of S$1,062 million. Public Affairs Department Singapore Airlines Ltd (2009) Question 5: How many subsidiaries does the company have and how has it helped with the growth of the company? Answer: Subsidiaries The Singapore Airlines Group has over 20 subsidiaries, covering a range of airline-related services from cargo to engine overhaul. The philosophy of investing in overseas joint ventures is the driving force behind Singapore Airlines development into a global group of aviation-related companies. The Singapore Airlines Group will continue to invest in related businesses, rather than seek to diversify outside of the aviation industry. Public Affairs Department Singapore Airlines Ltd (2009) Question6: How many staffs do you have at present? Answer: Human Resource The Singapore Airlines Groups staff strength as at 31 August 2009 was 29, 965 of which 14,054 were employed by the Airline. Public Affairs Department Singapore Airlines Ltd (2009) Question 7: In what other areas have you made impact? Answer: Corporate Citizenship Singapore Airlines recognizes the importance of building strong relationships, not only with its customers and business partners, but also with the many communities it serves. Through corporate donations, sponsorships and other forms of support, Singapore Airlines provides backing to a wide range of community groups including charities, educational institutions, and arts and sports events. Issued by Public Affairs Department Singapore Airlines Ltd to John Odewole.5th-9th September 2009) Information systems The main kinds of information systems that brings about innovation are as follows; Executive support system Management information system Decision support system Knowledge management system Transaction processing system Office automation system Operational level system An operational level system is managed by the operational managers to support them by keeping the track of elementary activities and transactions of the organisation by the use of transaction processing system. The flow of transaction is tracked at this level such as sales, receipts, cash, deposits, payroll, credit decision and flow of materials. Major function of this level includes sales management, scheduling, budgeting and personnel records. Training and development is one of the tools responsible to the success of SIA, therefore new ideas are needed to enhance this. Operational level involves sales and marketing, manufacturing, finance which is the backbone of the company, accounting and human resources. All these should be carried out accurately and effectively for proper running of the company. For the company to function well, a basic routine of transaction necessary must be carried out. At this level, the goals of the company, task, and recourses are predefined and structured intelligently. Beardwell, I., Holden, L. Claydon, T Knowledge level system The knowledge level is to help the organisation in discovering, organising, and to integrate new and existing knowledge in to the business. Controlling the flow of paper work should be employed in this level as well. A classical planning system in terms of models of problem solving should be carried out properly and accurately. A high level of information system design is needed at this level. In the knowledge level, a biometric system can be employed in order to monitor the staffs attendance and for security purpose. This system would reduce the level of insecurity and intruders or unauthorised access into the company. The use of SAP (system Anwendungen und produkte) can be employed in Singapore airline to manage the system at the operational level. SAP is system software used to manage the system database. Its efficiency and accuracy make it outstanding among other system software. Management level system The purpose of management level is to monitor and control, decision making, and administrative activities by middle managers. The management level is the decision support system unit where management information system should be used to carry out sales management, inventory control, annual budgeting and relocation analysis. is4 (By Lachlan Mackinnin and Phil Trinder) The management should be able to analyse regional sales, schedule production in such a way that time and cost of production will be will be managed by telling the production facility what to make with which staff, and on which equipment. This is done by using production scheduling tools. An inventory control system can be used, which is integrated package of software and hardware used in controlling the companys stock. The management level of SIA should be able to analyse cost quantitatively in order to decide whether to follow a course of action or not. In terms of pricing or profitability, the management should be able to conduct a proper profitability analysis in order to provide invaluable evidence concerning the earning potential of the company. Innovative system This level is being managed by senior managers to tackle and address strategic issues and long term trends. Senior managers do not only tackle issues within the organisation, they look into the external environment as well. The senior managers major concern is how to match the capability of the organisation with challenges, changes and opportunities externally. Executive support system is used at the strategic level by senior managers to carry out sales trend forecasting, operating plan, budget forecasting and manpower planning. is7 Inter-relationship between IS types (by Lachlan Mackinnin and Phil Trinder) Using information systems to facilitate customer relations of Singapore airline Information systems can be used to facilitate customer relations through the following means or medium: Functional support role To record and store customer market data, customer profiles, customer purchase history, marketing research data, and other useful marketing records. Marketing records are used for advertising, marketing plans and sales activities. Helps to record competitors activities data, industry data, intelligence data and strategic market records. In implementing, controlling, monitoring plans, strategies, tactics, new products and new business models as well as new customers. Decision support role Decision making is determined by asking what if Questions such as: what if we decrease the price of flight 5% will that increase our sales? What if we increase it by 2% will it decrease or increase sales? Or rather discourage customers, what if we decrease by 2% then increase by 3%? And so on. Strategic support role Core competence: sustainable competitive advantage which gives the company (SIA) long term advantage in the market place. Piloting the chain of internal values which helps to reduce costs and manage performance Rapid speed of change in information and technology helps in competitive aspect which serves as an advantage to the company. Performance monitoring role Help to establish relevant and measurable objectives Helps in monitoring results and performance Helps to send or to alert managers at each levels of the organisation. Benefits of a good customer relation management A good customer relation management helps to provide an excellent customer service in such a way that customers are satisfied and retained. Examples of this is providing a rapid response to queries, fast delivery, providing solutions to customer needs/ meeting customer needs and warm customer service that cannot be found elsewhere. Using customer information to optimise/ prioritize products/ goods and services and design as well as marketing strategy. Knowing your customers and then focusing on them in terms of provision of services. Building a long term relationship with the customers and conducting interaction with customer in order to know more about their needs. Reasons for CRM To be able to compete at a higher level with other competitors Unequivocal of customer economic retention With the help of technology, Singapore airline will be able to do so effectively and profitably. By doing the above, Singapore airline will definitely acquire and retain as much customers as possible and possibly enhance profits for the company. Ethical issues The principle of right and wrong: Ethical issue is concerned the choices that people make. Ethical issue can be classified under two categories such as: The fundamental morality of behaviour: this type of issue, as well known as deontologist refers to the basic and unarguable instances of right and wrong. Therefore this medium must not be used to mislead or differentiate. The consequences of behaviour: known as teleological, this refers to social effect of behaviour. The ethical issues Singapore airline might be encountering are: The innovative strategies used by corporate employees to maximise their frequent fliers benefits such as games which can be stored by frequent fliers. Breach in individual right Inconsistence in code of conduct of the company Unlawful distribution or exposition of customer details The consequences of this action on the society References Beardwell, I., Holden, L. Claydon, T. (2004) Human Resource Management: A Contemporary Approach 4th edition, FT Prentice Hall, London UK. Chan, D. (2000) The story of Singapore Airlines and the Singapore Girl, Journal of Management Development, Vol. 19. David, M. Smeeding T. (1985) Introduction, in David, M. Smeeding, T. (eds) Horizontal Equity, Uncertainty, and Economic Well-Being, National Bureau of Economic Research, Studies in Income and Wealth, Vol. 50. Hoovers (2006) Singapore Airlines Limited, available from: . 5th September 2009. Jacques, C. (1962) Objective Measures for Pay Differentials, Harvard Business Review, January-February Pillay, J. (1989) Singapore Airlines (A), USA, Harvard Business School Press. Thompson, A., Gamble, A.J. Strickland, J.E. (2005) Strategy, Winning in the Market Place 2nd International Edition, New York USA, McGraw Hill. Walker, K.W. (1992) Human Resource Strategy, McGraw-Hill, New York USA. Wirtz, J., Johnston, R. (2003), Singapore Airlines: what it takes to sustain service excellence a senior management perspective, Managing Service Quality, Vol. 13 No.1 http://books.google.co.uk/books?hl=enlr=id=jCfkJUL8oV0Coi=fndpg=PA3dq=history+airline+industryots=5D_FKZw82lsig=P-yUX_IouBcLN8If4GZ_ci9RMtU#v=onepageq=history%20airline%20industryf=false 15th September 2009 http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1062338/history_of_the_airline_industry.html 15th September 2009 Public Affairs Department Singapore Airlines Ltd 5th-9th September 2009.

Fight Club Essay -- essays research papers

The movie, Fight Club, has many themes dealing with some of the class-discussed vocabulary. Through a scene by scene, and dialogue-based analysis of the movie, I have found that these themes are emphasized through discussions, interactions, and non-dialogue scenes between the main character, his imaginary sidekick and the society that has had such effect on the main character. Some of these themes or topics that are shared by both the movie and the class vocabulary appear randomly, sporadically, and repeatedly throughout the movie. Most of the scenes have mainly to do with the materialism in their society and its limits on the freedom, which the characters are trying to obtain. Others deal with how they, the movie's characters, feel a sense of alienation and this alienation distorts relationships developing due to their self-determination. There is also how family interactions help to shape our development on our vertical and horizontal relationships. Then finally, hedonism and how it affects the way we treat each other and how we interact within society. All the characters in the movie deal with and dissect these themes, in all that they say and how they react to the main characters disillusionment with his life; although the main characters are mostly the ones bringing the themes to the forefront of the movie. This any man, main character dislikes his life, even to the point that he is unable to sleep. He is disillusioned with his life, unhappy and does not understand why. And in order to feel anything he has to make a lot of bad choices to under go a life transformation. This transformation originates through his interactions and dealings with Tyler Durden, his alter ego and his imaginary friend. The main character remains without a name until in the end you, as the movie watcher, are lead to realize that he (the main character) and Tyler are one in the same, almost on the level of the Trinity. However he goes without a real name because he is supposed to represent how he could and is Any Man, anybody, and everybody. But after he, Any Man, has made all these bad choices he has to run around and try to undo all the horror he has wrought. Any Man started Fight Club, which matured into Project Mayhem, which then ultimately resulted in the collapse of the institution of their society. In many ways this movie is an extreme moral movie, with the battle betwe... ...veloped enough that his subconscience allows for Tyler, his alter ego, to disappear. The Any Man feels abandoned yet again. His father abandoned him and then Tyler, the one who was helping him replace his father, left him; this Any Man was beginning to give up on all the progress he went through. He was willing in spite of all his sacrifices to go back to what he had before, his boring dull lifeless existence. The materialism that spawns from this society is the major cause of relationship development distortion, alienation, and the ultimate disillusionment of the male population within this society. In the beginning the Any Man's alienation stemmed from his distorted sense of materialism. It is this alienation that limits his sense of freedom and causes his disillusionment. This materialism is inherent in the self-determination that is prevalent in the core of this disfigured society. In order for this society to progress at all, they have to reject the controlling materialism and go through a rite of passage, that they felt they were lacking, into adulthood. In that, this rejection has to be the sacrifice of the society, the whole of society, or the whole process is pointless.

Elvis Pressley Essay -- essays research papers

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  My research was done on Elvis Aron Pressley. Elvis had many accomplishments in many different fields. He was a great Rock And Roll musician. Also he was a musician in the Country and Gospel fields. He made many contributions to the rock and roll community. Elvis also had a great screenplay career. He revolutionized the movie making industry as well as the music industry.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Elvis grew up into a common laid back family. Elvis Aron Presley was born on January 8th 1935. He later changed his middle name to Aaron the more common way to spell that name. His parents were Vernon and Gladys Presley. He was born into a two-room house in Tupelo Mississippi. He also had a stillborn brother named Jessie Garon. Jessie would have been the identical twin brother of Elvis. This left Elvis to be the only child for Vernon and Gladys Presley. Elvis started his singing career early. In 1945 his voice was first recognized when he got second place in a talent contest. In 1948 Elvis, Vernon, and Gladys moved to Memphis Tennessee. Five years after they moved to Memphis, Elvis graduated from Humes High School. Elvis had many plans made for his life.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  His musical career was to soon take off like a rocket. In the same year he graduated he also got a record deal with the legendary Sun Records in Memphis Tennessee. Soon after he records his first album with Sun Records his single â€Å"That’s All Right† was released. The first d. j. to play the single was Dewey Philips. Elvis was quickly becoming a superstar and was too much for Sun Records to handle all the business.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Soon after his single was recognized to be a hit, Elvis knew he must get a new label. RCA Victor soon signed Elvis in 1955, when he was only 20 years old. One year later he was an international superstar. People around the world were beginning to recognize the greatness of Elvis Presley. In 1956, Elvis made his network television debut with the first of his six appearances on Stage Show, a weekly variety program hosted by Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey. Everyone was starting to see how big Elvis was going to be.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Elvis soon started to sell more and more records. Elvis soon records the song â€Å"Heartbreak Hotel†. This is his first single to go gold. Elvis would get many more platinum and gold re... ...ame, is located on historic Beale Street in Memphis, TN. Elvis Presley's Heartbreak Hotel is a fashionable boutique hotel that takes its cues from the legendary hospitality and personal style for which the King of Rock & Roll was known. Elvis also has a wedding chapel named Graceland, which resides in Las Vegas Nevada. Elvis is also commemorated on many stamps. His first stamp was published on his birthday in 1993. The USPS printed 500 million of them, three times the usual print run for a commemorative stamp. He also has more then 200 different styles of stamps in which he is commemorated.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  All-in-all Elvis’s career was long and productive. He has sold more records then anyone else ever has. He had many gold and multi-platinum records. Starred in many movies and made a lot of television appearances. Elvis has made his imprint on the American history in many ways. He will always be remembered as â€Å"The King†. Almost everyone in the Rock And Roll industry owe their careers to Elvis Aaron Pressley.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  

Edgar Allan Poe :: Essays Papers

Edgar Allan Poe2 Edgar Allan Poe’s life had a profound effect on the technical style of his writing. Poe spent most of his life raised by foster parents who did not contribute to or encourage his writing. His first work was published in 1827, at the young age of 18, but his story in 1833, â€Å"MS Found in a Bottle,† marked the beginning of his writing career. Poe uses darkness and death in many of his stories. In his poems he was able to illustrate moods of mystery very well. Edgar Allan Poe was a unique writer who was not afraid to do something different from all the authors, while his adulthood was short and depressing. Born to traveling actors David and Elizabeth Poe on January 19, 1809, Edgar Poe was the middle child of three children. His father, David Poe, was from a Baltimore family. He was an actor by profession and a heavy drinker. Edgar was never very close with his older brother, William Henry Leonard Poe, because he had been left with his paternal grandparents around September 1807 for what began as an undetermined amount of time. In July of 1810 David Poe deserted his family and died shortly after. His death was most possibly alcohol elated. Elizabeth was still pregnant with their youngest child, Rosalie, who was born that December, at this time. Approximately a year after her daughter was born, in December of 1811, Elizabeth Poe died of tuberculosis. As a result of her death, William Henry Leonard stayed with his grandparents, Edgar was adopted by a couple of wealthy merchants from Richmond, Virginia, John and Fanny Allan, who offered him a better education than his grandparents could , while Rosalie was adopted Mr. and Mrs. William Mackenzie. In 1815, John Allan moved the family to England to try to make Allan and Ellis prosper. While there, Edgar went to private schools where his creative writings were discouraged. In 1820 the Allan’s returned to Virginia as a result of the collapse of John’s business venture. Shortly after the Allan’s return to the United States, Edgar began to support himself as he moved to Boston and worked in a merchandise house. Edgar Allan Poe :: Essays Papers Edgar Allan Poe2 Edgar Allan Poe’s life had a profound effect on the technical style of his writing. Poe spent most of his life raised by foster parents who did not contribute to or encourage his writing. His first work was published in 1827, at the young age of 18, but his story in 1833, â€Å"MS Found in a Bottle,† marked the beginning of his writing career. Poe uses darkness and death in many of his stories. In his poems he was able to illustrate moods of mystery very well. Edgar Allan Poe was a unique writer who was not afraid to do something different from all the authors, while his adulthood was short and depressing. Born to traveling actors David and Elizabeth Poe on January 19, 1809, Edgar Poe was the middle child of three children. His father, David Poe, was from a Baltimore family. He was an actor by profession and a heavy drinker. Edgar was never very close with his older brother, William Henry Leonard Poe, because he had been left with his paternal grandparents around September 1807 for what began as an undetermined amount of time. In July of 1810 David Poe deserted his family and died shortly after. His death was most possibly alcohol elated. Elizabeth was still pregnant with their youngest child, Rosalie, who was born that December, at this time. Approximately a year after her daughter was born, in December of 1811, Elizabeth Poe died of tuberculosis. As a result of her death, William Henry Leonard stayed with his grandparents, Edgar was adopted by a couple of wealthy merchants from Richmond, Virginia, John and Fanny Allan, who offered him a better education than his grandparents could , while Rosalie was adopted Mr. and Mrs. William Mackenzie. In 1815, John Allan moved the family to England to try to make Allan and Ellis prosper. While there, Edgar went to private schools where his creative writings were discouraged. In 1820 the Allan’s returned to Virginia as a result of the collapse of John’s business venture. Shortly after the Allan’s return to the United States, Edgar began to support himself as he moved to Boston and worked in a merchandise house.