Emergent technology

According to Pitkin (137), technology is one of the most significant engines of the modern society. It plays a significant role in shaping the future and the present.Advertising We will write a custom article sample on Emergent technology specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More There are critical questions regarding the impact of technological changes to organizations and individuals as well as the exact role of the individuals in managing the impact of the changes. The choices we make regarding the emergence of these technologies have a significant bearing on our success and the journey into the future (Pitkin 137). Online games are technology based entertainment. Many computer games presently are made up of a virtual environment imitating real life atmosphere as well as scientific and fictional activities. Playing online games has become a major homework and business across the globe. Many individuals young and old sit like statues bef ore the computers and handsets during work, after school or after work play the online games. Today, it is not strange to see individuals spend the whole day browsing the internet seeking for games (Nejati, Shafaei Nejati 518). The increasing recognition and attractiveness of online gaming and the live transmissions of leagues on television and internet streaming has accelerated the development of online soccer games. The rapid advancements in the online soccer games are greatly attributed to the media broadcast and the prevalence of cable television transmission channels. Particular internet protocol televisions and web portals are fully devoted to the game competitions. This has attracted several individuals and professional game players to become celebrities and fans (Ivory 223).Advertising Looking for article on other technology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The use of web-based games and simulations has raised a lot o f concerns due to the impact it has had on the lives of the students and the lives of individuals at home and at the workplace. The new gaming technology consumes significant amount of time and has potential harmful impacts such as exposing of young minds to unhealthy commercialism, sex and violence (Ivory 223). Engaging in the online gaming has both psychological and behavioral consequences. The consequences include impact on the moods and one’s psychological state. In the workplace, boredom is disadvantageous to the organization. When the individuals engage in the online gaming activities for example and loose in a competition, it affects their concentration in the workplace because of the negative and unpleasant emotional states that arises. This moves the employee’s concentration away from the normal duties. Bored employees produce dissatisfying results which hinders promotion and puts their compensation at risk. The decreased performance may lead to termination of employment or contract (Zhang 172). Online addictions oblige individuals to engage in the internet games which later progresses and initiate behavior change. Unfavorable addictive behavior in the workplace attracts unpleasant reaction from colleagues and managers. This is because an individual finds it difficult to operate without having access to the online games. Spending any little time without access to the games leads to anxiety, depression and loneliness. These Problematic tic conditions instigate conflicts and confrontations with employers and colleagues in the workplace (Zhang 172).Advertising We will write a custom article sample on Emergent technology specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More In many countries, digital technology such as the internet games industry is regarded as one of the industries where addiction and decadent attitudes emerge. The online games have particularly affected cultural values and have become a big threat to the youth and the future of the society at large. It has also largely contributed to the leisure practices by the youth outside the limits of parental control as well as tension and boredom in the learning environments as a result of the restrictions imposed on students regarding the use of the online resources (Human Kinetics 173). Online games present a possible serious setback on one’s social development and skills. It is possible for individuals to excessively and continually discuss on particular online games whether in the office or in class, thereby giving little consideration to meaningful conversations. Studies have indicated negative social effects of certain types of online games such as the online soccer or video games. For example playing violent games is a considerable risk factor and gradually causes physical aggression (Human Kinetics 173). Conclusion Due to the rapid developments in the computer high-tech and the advancements in technology, million s of individuals and families are linked and especially via the internet. According to Zhang (172), this has led to the speedy growth in the online and video games. Living in today’s modern society demands that individuals and organizations must accept the trend and the impact of the emerging technology. Everyone must learn to select what is beneficial and discard potentially harmful materials.Advertising Looking for article on other technology? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Recognizing the unique advantages and disadvantages of particular online games helps individuals to avoid possible harm and negative side effects on their academic work and in workplaces. Individuals should no longer simply hold on to attitudes and perceptions regarding the impact of technology, instead each person should ensure a proper regulation and sound use as well as effective control of the electronic games so as to ensure minimal side effects of the recreational activities (Zhang 172). Works Cited Human Kinetics. Dimensions of leisure for life: Individuals and society. Champaign, Illinois: Human Kinetics, 2010. Print. Ivory, James. Virtual lives: A reference handbook contemporary world issues. Santa Barbara, California: ABC-CLIO, 2012. print. Nejati, Mehran., Shafaei, Azadeh., and Nejati, Mostafa. Issues in global business and management research: Proceedings of the 2008 international online conference on business and management (iocbm 2008). Florida: Universal-Publishers, 2 010. Print. Pitkin, Gary. The impact of emerging technologies on reference service and bibliographic instruction. Westport, Connecticut: Greenwood Publishing Group, 1995. Print. Zhang, Tianbiao. Future computer, communication, control and automation. New York: Springer, 2011. Print. This article on Emergent technology was written and submitted by user Cale Bolton to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Trurl’s Machine Essay Essay Example

Trurl’s Machine Essay Essay Example Trurl’s Machine Essay Paper Trurl’s Machine Essay Paper â€Å"Trurl’s Machine† is the narrative an discoverer who makes an eight-story thought machine. The narrative is an effort to portray the censoring of the people by a Communist government. Lem does this through the usage of character. secret plan and symbolism. The characters in â€Å"Trurl’s Machine† have really different personalities. First. we meet Trurl. the builder. He is a scientist and an discoverer. but he has an artistic side. This he shows by giving the machine face. He has a speedy pique and no forbearance for stupidity. He besides is house in his beliefs as he demonstrates at the terminal of the narrative when the machine is seeking to acquire him to give in. â€Å"†Never! † roared Trurl. as if he no longer cared what happened. †¦ ( Lem ) . † Klapaucius is Trurl’s friend and challenger. He is besides a builder. but a much more light hearted one. He is ever looking on the bright side and he neer shies off from escapade. He besides has a speedy humor and is able to set a amusing spin on most things. The machine is described by Klapaucius. â€Å"Not merely is it sensitive. dense. and obstinate. but speedy to take discourtesy. and believe me. with such an copiousness of qualities. there all kinds of things you might make ( Lem ) ! † It. like Trurl. is speedy to anger. Lem uses the secret plan of the narrative to acquire his message across. In the beginning. the machine declares that 2+2=7. When it meets opposition in the signifier of Trurl and Klapaucius. who mock it. the machine becomes enraged and escapes its foundations in order to trail its tormenters. Here the tormenters become the laden. The machine goes on a violent disorder ; it destroys the town that Klapaucius and Trurl fell in and continues to trail them up the mountain. In its choler. the machine causes excessively much indirect harm and ends up destructing itself. There is besides much symbolism in this narrative. The machine is meant to typify the Communist party. It tries to ban the sentiments of Trurl and Klapaucius. chiefly. that 2+2=4. Trurl and Klapaucius are the laden citizens enduring under the Communist government. They are persecuted for their beliefs. The landslide symbolizes the point at which a population can no longer stand their oppressors and must move. The oppressors go excessively far and do their ain death. â€Å"Trurl’s Machine successfully portrays the battle of laden people against those who would ban their beliefs. Lem was able to utilize character. secret plan and symbolism to accomplish this consequence. The narrative shows that if the oppressed base up to their oppressors. there is a great opportunity that they will predominate.

Female Sexual Autobiography Personal Statement Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Female Sexual Autobiography - Personal Statement Example It was very early that I discovered something unusual when I find young men and boys looking at me with deeper meaning in their eyes. I started feeling strange and uncomfortable by someone's intense gaze or meaningful smile while I was entering my teenage. Early teenage interaction with opposite sex assured me of some fiery attraction and bond. Later, Biology class lessons and discussions; television programs; magazines with exposing pictures; books and literature, and socialization led me discover the real meaning and process of sex. At that time, I felt excited but feared by the consequences of doing it in the form of pregnancy. I was clueless about where â€Å"babies come from† until six. One day I heard some kids talking about it in school cafeteria. In utter disbelief, I shared this newly got but awkward information with some of my street friends, few of them came up with similar stories. With more confused than ever ideas in my head, I came back home and talked to my mother about it; she told me that it’s true. I was quite shocked; it was certainly true because my mother was the ultimate source of information. I felt that it is a gross idea and babies can come out by mouth instead, funny idea I know, but that was something popped like popcorn in my mind when I was settling with this phenomenon. I thought but how the kid goes in, an immediate answer was, the way it comes out, but I couldn't give much thought to the later part. I also imagined myself coming out of my mom’s bottom; it seems funny now but was a terrible thought then. Post this information, I became more curious than ever to such information aired on television, magazines, and books. I was aware of the fact that girls and boys are different from my early childhood. I started noticing the differences between male and female body around 7-8 years of age. Whenever I saw a new born without clothes, I naturally observed that boys are different from girls. I felt that little girls have more beautiful body than little boys but boyish thing was interesting for sure. My biology class proved to be the solid fact-checking machine as I could not only read but question whenever I felt confused. After studying the structures and functioning of male and female organs, I was very thrilled. My own changing body and new experiences, such as, periods made me felt like I am transforming into women, ready for a sensual life full of surprises ahead. While I learned about the connection between male and female, I was not able to appreciate my own body. I was interested in what is in outside world. Masturbating was somethi ng that came to be naturally and made me realize the beauty and feelings within. Though, I started doing it around the age of 8 or 9 but I was not aware of the fact that I was doing it. I have no clue what it is and why I enjoy touching myself. However, it was not that real masturbating as I used to stick my finger there and move slowly for feeling the sensation or releasing the itch caused by some hard cloth or jeans. I learnt about the â€Å"golden moment† (as I refer to orgasm) in my teenage from some dirty magazines where people shared their experiences of

Facebook Addictions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Facebook Addictions - Essay Example People socialize through facebook. They feel connected to the whole world on facebook. It is because of such a strategic design of facebook that hardly anyone would think of spending time on it as a waste of time. Facebook offers people an opportunity to search lost friends the easiest way. It has become more of a necessity than a fashion in the modern technological age and people have started to rely on it not only for casual gossips but also for important business information and business deals. â€Å"If you have a business contact who requests to be your Facebook friend, you’re probably in good shape with that particular contact.† (Treadaway and Smith, 2010). â€Å"Facebook, the popular networking site, has 350 million members worldwide who, collectively, spend 10 billion minutes there every day, checking in with friends, writing on people’s electronic walls, clicking through photos and generally keeping pace with the drift of their social world.† (Hafner, 2009). The addiction to Facebook is not normally viewed as an addiction although it contains all the aspects of addiction. Many lose themselves in it. They waste all their time on it because it interferes with their lives often times putting beside more important things such as good hygiene, paying bills. Children go to such limits that they even let it interfere with their work and school. People get so involved that when they do not have access or can not access Facebook they start to exhibit signs of withdrawal. The feeling arising as a result of such a withdrawal is not very different from that offered by social exclusion. Literature that refers to Facebook as an addiction is expanding beyond horizons. â€Å"It is a psychophysiological disorder involving tolerance; withdrawal symptoms; affective disturbances; and interruption of social relationships. The most common one is Facebook Addiction Disorder (FAD).†

Radio Frequency Identification(RFID) Chip Research Paper

Radio Frequency Identification(RFID) Chip - Research Paper Example It is not merely businesses or trade that utilizes the admirable invention. Healthcare industry and departments like defense or investigation also take advantage of this invention. The impact of RIFD is exciting as it is widely accepted and handled for different purposes. However, there are positive and negative impacts or influences of this modern technology on individuals and society as a whole. Initially, considering certain positive impacts of RFID in business management sector is relevant. Business functions normally encounter problems every now and then since it involves greater complications in information sharing. The RIFD chip is the consolation in times of difficulties associated with handling functions that are beyond human control and capacity. As pointed out by Lin and Teh-Hsing, the greater reliability of such radio frequency identification is that it assists in maintaining clear data and information along with the identification process (13). Moreover, the information collected is more reliable and much more valuable as the operation or system solely depends on the radio wave which is entirely a technical process. Apart from this, in supply chain management also it plays a remarkable role. Being the source and summit of business industry, the technology boosts the system of management in various ways, namely, â€Å"in manufacturing, warehousing/distribution centers, logistics and retailing environments† which are the essential areas of high recognition and importance (as qtd in EPC Global). Furthermore, the department of health and defense are benefited much from this invention when it is applied effectively in respective fields. First of all, for detecting animals and other human features are sought by the informative waves. Attaching such kind of chip eases the difficulty in understanding and analyzing the factors carefully. Similarly, RFID is major equipment used in defense or investigation sector. During the Second World War, radar was used to collect the information and activities of the rivals. As the developed form of radar today, the Radio Frequency Identification contributes significantly toward knowing the subversive activities undertaken by neighboring and rival nations. And, this magical invention is beneficial in tracing many of the cases of theft. It was a common issue prevailing in the business world that when companies experienced huge loss, most of the goods or items had been found stolen. The impact of RFID is so magnificent that it traces any such activities existing in business field. According to Sennewald, and John, it was not merely the money which was stolen but the documents and other important files which resulted in crisis (15-16). On the flip side, the adverse effects of RFID cannot be ignored or neglected. One of the main drawbacks of this waves system is nothing but it prevents privacy. The collected information or the details of other companies and their activities can be easily accesse d or tracked through this wave processing. Therefore, the business organizations find it hard to keep any secrecy related to its different management or operation tactics and techniques. Evidently, this information would assist the governments and higher authority to interfere in the activities of the private firm or organization headed by individuals. Inconsistency is the other matter of concern as the retailers often fail to have such an establishment of

Video Analysis Of Billionaire By Travis Mccoy Film Studies Essay

Video Analysis Of Billionaire By Travis Mccoy Film Studies Essay Dreams of waking up as a billionaire have circled around the consciousness of many, especially through periods when life knocks you down and mostly to those who belong to an ethnic group that is looked upon as a threat to the society. The 29 year old Travis Travie Lazurus McCoy, in his twice Platinum (RIAA Gold Platinum, 2010), #4 Billboard Hot 100 debut single, Billionaire ft. Bruno Mars (Summer 2010), imagines what would happen if he became a billionaire. He references all the desires on his wish list and also mentions the good he would do to others with the money, along with his desire to be on the cover of Forbes Magazine and smiling next to Oprah and The Queen. An analysis is run through the artists desire of turning rich to make a change for the less fortunate African Americans who are mistreated daily. The Hip Hop/Rap single from the solo album Lazarus with a simple title Billionaire was co-written by the 7 Grammy Award nominee and producer Peter Hernandez of the Puerto Rican origin. His stage name in the music industry is Bruno Mars from the production trio of The Smeezingtons. Bruno has co-written many international smashing hits along with many famous artists like Flo Rida. On the other hand, Travie himself, who is of Haitian origin and who heads from Geneva, New York, wrote the other part. Travie has a legendary music background, tracing back to his career as the lead vocalist of the alternative hip-hop band Gym Class Heroes (Travie McCoy Music News Info, 2010). The producer is The Smeezingtons and the record label is the New York based Fueled By Ramen (Billionaire by Travie McCoy, 2010). The single has been released as a music video, which seems to be a trend for any new single to showcase its message visually and to reach a wider audience range, mainly through the Internet. The Billionaire is targeted towards pretty much the same audience as any hip hop/rap title, the teens and young adults, aged 15-35. It is targeted towards a specific ethnic group, as in the most cases of this genre, the mass population of the whites, who in terms spend a lot on music. The music video was filmed in the sunny California and it has been first debuted on MTV. It shows Travie driving a Mini Cooper, and helping four people and a group. The first is giving a guy a new skateboard, the second was buying an unknown, aspiring artists CD, the third was a teenager trying to hitchhike to Geneva, New York and when Travie got out of the car, he gave away the keys of the Mini. Finally giving a graffiti artist some spray-paint, for that to express the young talent within. The second location was a beach party of partygoers who ran dry on beer, and in come Travie and Bruno, handing out beers to restore life to the party. It is important to notice that there is a hidden commercial ad of the popular Tuborg beer at the 2:34 length of the video. It is latent due to the fact that the bottles and the beer box are taken from an angle that blurs the brand name. However Tuborgs green label bottles are widely known. Hence the message that is originally meant as entertainment contains latent information about youngs and their interests. The song has an opening line by Bruno Mars, whos ancestry is linked with black slaves, declares that I wanna be a billionaire so fricking bad. The status of billionaire is recognized as the minority of elites who have a billion in the countrys currency. This triggers an interest in ones consciousness; an interest of being rich along with its privileges and how would your life change. Next Bruno reinstates on that being rich means that you could have all the goodies of the universe. At this moment, some might think of happiness, others about drugs, sex or even power. For Bruno, its being on the cover of the worlds famous and most elite magazine for the rich barons called Forbes, where only a couple of lucky famous international figures show off their smiles, being on the worlds yearly rich list. This brings upon an important aspect of the media message, a historical and cultural reference. Forbes has been the ultimate publication of the rich high-ranking executives from all over the w orld; on the other hand, its a dream for the less fortunate. Furthermore, he touches upon the popular figures, an easy way to engage with the mind of the listener, by simultaneously pointing out people of similar interest and global fame; he desires to smile next to one of the worlds few black billionaires and TV host Oprah Winfrey and the Queen (most probably Queen Elizabeth II). Once again, here comes more of a historical linkage, a hidden from the logic connection between black Bruno and billionaire Oprah. Most of the American population knows Oprah and her sad story of being rape-pregnant at the age of 9, and later her tough life as a black in the neighborhoods of Mississippi. For a black African American and equally to the whites, hearing such words, not only triggers the deepest feelings and emotions of ones own past and present, but also a hope, a light at the end of the tunnel; to believe in one another and your own, in the way Oprah did it. Next comes a chorus. This time its more of an inception, a dream within a dream that Bruno already started by putting one self onto Forbes cover. Here he dreams, with every time that he closes his eyes, he visualizes his name in shinny lines, where shinny references to bold and elegant banners and titles on magazines and street billboards. Not surprisingly, Bruno tries to showcase himself as man with power and recognition, once he gains the billionaire status: I swear the world better prepare for when Im a billionaire. Furthermore, Travie, while driving around town offers agreement and support to Brunos words. Being a host of a show like Oprah means big money, here is where Travie takes more of a philanthropic billionaires position by accepting a wish list from all the people and making everyday a Christmas, a time of giving that is. Soon Travie pulls up intertextuality and points onto Brad and Angelina and their scandals that made them famous. Mainly, intertextuality is seen most in the idea of adopting kids and giving them everything what they never had before, this refers to the generosity and trend of Angelina Jolie who is known for her numerous adoptions and support for children from the gods forgotten nations. This pulls up an important point and going away from the famous clichà © of the rich being greedy, he and Angelina will go hand in hand and save the worlds little kids. The rest of the lyrics go very similar to the main plot of simply becoming a billionaire, to help the poor, to give a way goodies that gained elite status in the society, the Mercedes for ladies enjoyment for instance, here once again a cultural reference is latent as Mercedes is a status of wealth. Next Travie puts up money for the victims of the Hurricane Katrina. Here Travie touches a very important fact, mostly a political decision, again by a group of powerful and elites. He talks about the irresponsibility towards Katrinas relief by FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) and that he could do lots more than them. Critical to understand, why Travie talks about Katrina and not any other hurricane, when it is known that there were many more before his debut release in 2010. Mostly to trigger solidarity and emotion towards the mass population of African Americans who were victims in the city of New Orleans. All the lyrics still circle around the same idea, of the blacks being mistreated and left out. This is a very strong historical and in a way cultural reference too. Since title debuted in s ummer, a time of pleasure and party, but is linked with the unfortunate happenings of 2005 Katrina. Its a latent tribute to the less fortunate. In the final words, Travie mainly points the audiences attention to the social status and trend of being rich. At this point, different audiences depending on their social level would reason differently. Mainly what would you and your friends be once you have a billion in your bank. Here Travie does a very critical move, instead of converting the lyrics into a political propaganda, he takes it easy. He talks about playing basketball with the President. Once again there is a cultural reference, basketball mainly refers to the neighborhood game of African American teenagers. Therefore playing with the president would mean steering the presidents attention towards the difficulties of the blacks. Furthermore, he indirectly touches upon the tax law; mainly being rich means that you will pay different taxes, a social inequality. At the end, he returns to his philanthropic position and will spend the money on his family and friends, and give them the main necessities of life. This conveys a message that would be interpreted differently, but the source is the same, help the less fortunate blacks. Moving deeper into song structure, the hit uses the standard versus-chorus style. The verse and chorus are considered the primary elements. Each verse in the Billionaire has the same melody with some slight modifications towards the end, but the lyrics change for most verses. The chorus (refrain) by Bruno Mars has a melodic phrase and a key lyrical line, which is repeated: Oh every time I close my eyes. Next, the songs chord sequence is sampled directly from Sublimes 1996 track, Santeria. This was written about a guy envisioning using black magic or Santeria anything he can to get back his girl (Santeria by Sublime Song facts, 2010). Using sampled tracks in rap songs has become a wide spread trend, to bring upon a hidden context, more often this is done for the purpose of linking two similar messages. However in the case of Billionaire this is false and no intertextuality is seen. The artist has simply lent the guitar chord sequence. Furthermore, the song itself is recorded professi onally under supervision from the The Smeezingtons (producer). The music itself is high quality stereo. On top of this, the music video is shot in high definition (HD) format, a standard these days. Most of the times, the angle is equal and focus set at the people and their activities, in color, both during day and night. Finally, the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), which is responsible for the promoting of the creative vitality of the major music companies, certified Billionaire as 2 times Platinum, which signifies over 2,000,000 shipments. The Billionaire single has earned both Travie McCoy and Bruno Mars significant international recognition and fame. Its a relaxing song, that not only reminds us of the various life inequalities that are faced daily by the different ethnic groups, but also it gives hope and supports a dream of each of us. Travie McCoy Billionaire Lyrics featuring Bruno Mars [Bruno Mars] I wanna be a billionaire so fricking bad buy all of the things I never had uh, I wanna be on the cover of Forbes magazine smiling next to Oprah and the Queen [Chorus] Oh every time I close my eyes I see my name in shining lights A different city every night oh I swear the world better prepare for when Im a billionaire [Travis Travie McCoy] Yeah I would have a show like Oprah I would be the host of, everyday Christmas give Travie a wish list Id probably pull an Angelina and Brad Pitt and adopt a bunch of babies that aint never had sh-t give away a few Mercedes like here lady have this and last but not least grant somebody their last wish its been a couple months since Ive single so you can call me Travie Claus minus the Ho Ho get it, hehe, Id probably visit where Katrina hit and damn sure do a lot more than FEMA did yeah cant forget about me stupid everywhere I go Imma have my own theme music [Chorus] Oh every time I close my eyes I see my name in shining lights A different city every night oh I swear the world better prepare for when Im a billionaire oh oooh oh oooh for when Im a Billionaire oh oooh oh oooh for when Im a Billionaire [Travis Travie McCoy] Ill be playing basketball with the President dunking on his delegates then Ill compliment him on his political etiquette toss a couple milli in the air just for the heck of it but keep the fives, twentys (?) completely separate and yeah Ill be in a whole new tax bracket we in recession but let me take a crack at it Ill probably take whatevers left and just split it up so everybody that I love can have a couple bucks and not a single tummy around me would know what hungry was eating good sleeping soundly I know we all have a similar dream go in your pocket pull out your wallet and put it in the air and sing [Bruno Mars] I wanna be a billionaire so fricking bad buy all of the things I never had uh, I wanna be on the cover of Forbes magazine smiling next to Oprah and the Queen [Chorus] I wanna be a billionaire so frickin bad! Reference Page Billionaire by Travie Mccoy. (2010). Retrieved December 14th, 2010 from http://www.songfacts.com/detail.php?id=18841 RIAA Gold and Platinum. (2010, June 18). Retrieved December 18th, 2010 from http://www.riaa.com/goldandplatinumdata.php?resultpage=1table=SEARCH_RESULTStitle=Billionaire%20%28FEAT.%20BRUNO%20MARS%29perPage=50 Santeria by Sublime Song facts. (2010). Retrieved December 14th, 2010 from http://www.songfacts.com/detail.php?id=3798 Travie McCoy Music News Info | Billboard.com. (2010). Retrieved December 12th, 2010 from http://www.billboard.com/artist/travie-mccoy-featuring-bruno-mars/1318433#/song/travie-mccoy-featuring-bruno-mars/billionaire/18418635

The Important Role of Water in Toni Morrison’s Beloved Essay -- Critic

Water has always been a source of life but many do not take into account it's strength and ability to kill. From its cleansing nature, it washes away dirt; from its’ powerful potency it holds total destruction. With its flowing characteristic, water is able to form to any shape and make its’ way around any object. The multiple possibilities water possesses, engages, while takes away the mystery. In Toni Morrison’s novel Beloved, water manipulates many factors causing destruction in the community. The direction it leads Beloved in, takes her from the past into the life of society while altering the notions of the future. The water creates a portal for Beloved taking her through death and life to a sense of belonging because it holds life-giving vitality as well as the ability to take life allowing her to move back and forth through worlds as the past gives possibility to the future. The water yields a home for Beloved as she finds herself lost and confused. As Beloved emerges from the water, she searches for a place of belonging in the life she left behind. â€Å"I come out of the blue water†¦ I need to find a place to be (213).† Because she has been lost inside the spiritual world, she searches for a â€Å"home† after being reborn. Once she finds this home, she is able to accept herself and can begin taking revenge on Sethe for what she did to her. Her simple beginnings of praising and worshiping her mother, captures Sethe’s complete devotion and love. â€Å"Rainwater held on to pine needles for dear life and Beloved could not take her eyes off Sethe (57).† With Beloved constant flattering nature, Sethe handed herself over to Beloved and she became part of the family. Beloved’s evil ways of manipulating Sethe into caring more about her than Den... ...returns to help Sethe. â€Å"Stay there. Don’t move. Let me heat up some water. Is it all right, Sethe, if I heat up some water?† (272). Paul D gets rid of the frozen water in Sethe’s life. This paves the road for different possibilities in her and the rest of the townspeople’s lives. Although Sethe is devastated from Beloved’s disappearance, the melting of ice lets her change and focus on the future instead of the past. Beloved finds a sense of belonging in returning to life after searching through death as she moves through the portal created by water. Its soft nature cleanses and washes away the bad but also holds the capability to destroy life. Water eases Beloved’s transportation between worlds. It has always been a source of wonder and continues to amaze people. The passion of water alters anything in its path paving its own path regardless of its surroundings.

Analysis using Porter’s five forces model in Marketing

On analyzing the case we will seek to look at two relevant barriers to entry; namely, product differentiation and economies of scale. The economy of scale refers to the decline per unit in product cost as the volume of production increases. Levi’s could have exploited opportunities to outsource their production facilities where labour is cheaper, in order to mass produce and have a cost advantages. Volumes of jeans have been produced in this market because other labels such as Arizona Jeans have exploited the opportunity. If they exploit the opportunity it means that they could produce for less and sell at a higher cost to their profitability. The Levi’s brand has product differentiation because there is a history of brand loyalty; the product carries enough clout to justify a reasonable price premium. They had embarked on a project to create a niche market to attract higher income customers who were willing to pay a premium for a perfect fit. In this case the threat would be brand loyalty because there are a lot of producers of jeans. Threat of Rivalry Threat of rivalry includes all distributors and stores that sell jeans. Example of stores is the likes of JC Penny stores who were once a business alliance, they have sought out cheaper alternatives such as the Arizona brand of jeans and have become their competitor; there is also Gap, Lee and Wrangler. Each of these brands has their own market or customer base. With all of these competitors in the market there is likely competitive pricing for the product. Threat of Substitutes There are other forms of clothing that can substitute for jeans example cotton, linen and other forms of material that makes clothing. In this case though Levi’s has created a â€Å"personal pair for a perfect fit† this proposal has created the niche market for Levi’s through a jeans customization program with their strategic alliance partner Technology Corporation. With this partner they will be able to achieve a competitive advantage. Threat of Suppliers Threat of suppliers all depends on the amount of raw materials. Since Levi’s now has a strategic partner, Technology Corporation they are the ones who take the orders and manufactures the customized jeans at their location. The threat is that they have to rely on another organization to complete the process at a separate location. The benefit though is that this company is a joint venture where each partner has a vested interest in the success of the business thus minimizing risks. However; on the other hand the partner may decide to cheat if they see a more valuable venture for themselves in starting their own line of business. There is also the threat of an increase salary and benefit for employees as well as retention of trained personnel in the area of sales and manufacturing. Threat of Buyers Threat of buyers relies on the marketing of the brand. If Levi’s has a good marketing strategy then customers and suppliers are more likely to purchase their goods. The company has begun to engage in a joint venture with another company therefore once they start receiving orders they will be able to meet the demand to supply stores and retail customers alike. According to the case, the brand Levi is one of the most recognizable brands worldwide since the 1950’s. The jeans had established a political and ashion statement as an American icon. Levi’s has become synonymous with the term â€Å"authentic,† â€Å"genuine,† and â€Å"original. † They are the largest brand-apparel company in the world and the number one purveyor of blue jeans. Levi’s has an image of quality and durability. The image of the company is valuable and rare. Perhaps no other firm has been able to duplicate the Levi brand and the firm uses this image to their competitive advantage as not many firms are able to imitate that image. Despite competetition from low cost rivals who are able to produce more cheaply at overseas facilities, Levi has organized its cost structure and business by using technology and joint venture to their advantage. They have established value creating activities by way of market revitalization and have established a corporate reputation, established links with their suppliers and buyers and invested in high technological equipment and information support systems.

Humanitarian Intervention Views of Richard Falk and Michael Walzer

Humanitarian Intervention Views of Richard Falk and Michael Walzer Identifying the central argument of the two articles Richard Falk and Michael Walzer present varying views as regards to the reason why state and non-state actors intervene in the international system whenever a crisis emerges. The two analysts differ over a number of fundamental issues, but they seem to agree about the nature of the international system, as they both observe that actors do not intervene to fulfil the interests of the affected individuals, but instead they aim at realizing their national interests.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Humanitarian Intervention: Views of Richard Falk and Michael Walzer specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Falk notes that powerful states intervene militarily to realize their ambitions and objectives in any conflict. He analyzes the effects of intervention whereby he comes up with two sets of reactions that intrusion seems to generate as far as legal, ethical, and political issu es are concerned. In the first response, Falk observes that commissions are set up within the state to investigate the consequences of interference where eminent persons are appointed to serve in such committees. The second response to intervention is criticisms from civil societies and human groups. The analyst tends to disapprove the behaviour of powerful states and other units that rush into conclusion without seeking the approval of the world governing body, which is the United Nations. For him, the advice of the Security Council should always be relied upon before coming with a decision to intervene militarily in a war-tone region. Falk accuses the role of non-official bodies, such as NATO, which are often used in restoring peace without the approval of the world governing bodies. States should embark on strengthening the legally and ethically accepted institutions, such as the regional blocs since they represent the interests of the majority. Non-official organizations, includ ing NATO, only represent the interests of the powerful states, such as the United States, France, Britain, and other US allies. Whenever intervention is undertaken, Falk suggests that the UN objectives under the responsibility to protect clause ought to be followed closely. In this regard, the rules of engagement should be clear meaning that actors should determine when to intervene, the mode of intervention, and must give a genuine reason for intervening. Additionally, military involvement should be employed as a last resort meaning that other options should be explored. If military action is adopted, approval should be sought from the UN to make it legitimate. Michael Walzer approves intervention if it is felt that human life is in danger. In fact, he claims that actors should make an attempt of intervening as soon as possible to prevent human suffering. In his view, it is difficult to commit crimes against humanity without being noticed in the modern international system because of the development of information communication techniques.Advertising Looking for essay on international relations? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More In his attempt to justify intervention, he analyzes four major themes that actors have to consider, which include the nature of occasion, the agents to be used in intervention, the techniques of engaging the aggressor or the belligerent state, and the best time to end or terminate intervention. Regarding occasion, the international community should only interfere with state sovereignty if the condition is extreme. Issues, such as violation of human rights and authoritarian regimes do not call for intrusion since they have to be dealt with locally. Only issues related to genocide and mass murder call for intervention. When engaging the aggressive party or state in the international system, only the United Nations should be given the mandate of doing so. The use of force i s justifiable, but only if other means have failed. Once the situation is restored back to normal, the intervening state should withdraw, as soon as possible. Identifying the points of agreement and disagreement between the tow scholars The two analysts agree at some point while in other instances they differ. On the issue of intervention, Falk observes that regional organizations and internationally recognized bodies, mainly the United Nation, should be left with the mandate of resolving conflicts and force should never be applied. Walzer takes a different stand, as he suggests that only the United Nations should be given the mandate of intervening and force might be used to restore the situation back to normal. Walzer is of the view actors in the international system should not intervene over minor issues. For him, only genocide should attract intervention, as other issues ought to be resolved locally. Falk differs slightly with this idea, as he suggests that actors have the right of intervening whenever deemed necessary. The two analysts agree that intervention is necessary and should always be undertaken whenever human life is in danger. While Falk underscores the that powerful states intervene to salvage their interests, Walzer has a different view, as he observes that intervention is undertaken to prevent the hostile actor from harming human life. They both give examples of intervention in India, Kosovo, and Rwanda, but their accounts are different. Critical evaluation of the two positions It is noted that Falk is a realist while Walzer is a liberalist. Realists believe that any state would have an interest of preserving its political autonomy, as well as territorial integrity. Regarding the intervention of powerful states, the main objective is to maintain the global power, which is defined in terms of military power, political domination, diplomatic power, and cultural power. Based on this view, realists believe that the international system is anarchi c, brutal, and life is short-lived as an actor engage in a zero-sum game whereby a loss on the side of one actor is the gain of the other.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Humanitarian Intervention: Views of Richard Falk and Michael Walzer specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More In the global system, there is no Leviathan, which is charged with the responsibility of overseeing the affairs of all actors, instead the vacuum left is filled by the powerful states. In this regard, the international system exists based on the Hobbestian state of nature where life is short-lived and highly calculative. Peace in the international system is maintained by balance of power. Liberalism is one of the dominant theories in the study of international relations stating that world peace and security could be achieved through cooperation. The theory tends to suggest that regime types, existence of international organizations, and the nature o f domestic politics affect the decisions that foreign policy makers formulate at the international political arena. The commercial interests of various actors force them to implement free trade policies, which have the role to play in the relations among states. Through the theory, other related theories have been formulated, including globalization and interdependence. Walzer notes that agents of globalization, including the media, play a role in exposing the actions of the aggressive actor. For peace to be maintained globally, actors should think of institutionalizing peace, which would definitely facilitate cooperation. Walzer observes that the United Nations is competent in maintaining peace and security. Therefore, the theory does not encourage actors to come up with short-time peace solutions, but instead they should aim at formulating lasting peace strategies. In this regard, international law, norms, and formation of alliances ought to be stressed if lasting peace and securi ty is to be achieved. Falk, Richard. â€Å"Humanitarian Intervention: Elite and Critical Perspectives†. Global Dialogue, 7.1 (2005): 1-7. Print. Walzer, Michael. â€Å"The Argument about Humanitarian Intervention†. Forum for Intercultural Philosophy, 5.1 (2004): 1-8. Print.

Chinese manufacturer Lenovo Essays

Chinese manufacturer Lenovo Essays Chinese manufacturer Lenovo Essay Chinese manufacturer Lenovo Essay The merger meets opposition; On November 7, 2001 at 10 oclock that morning, Walter Hewlett, son of HP co-founder William Hewlett, called Ms. Fiorina, chairman and CEO of Hewlett-Packard Co. (HP). In their brief conversation, the co-founders son informed Fiorina that he and his family would publicly oppose the planned merger between Hewlett-Packard and Compaq. In addition, Hewlett told Fiorina that he would be issuing a news release within the hour to announce their decision. Then, just hours later, David Packard Jr., the oldest son of the other Hewlett-Packard co-founder, issued a statement announcing that he would also vote against the merger. (Hoopes, 2003) Suddenly, the future of HP-the company that created Silicon Valley-seemed to rest in the hands of heirs who had never wanted an active role in their fathers company. (Williams McWilliams, Family Affair: HP Deals Fate Rests with Skeptical Heirs, 2001) Had Fiorina failed to effectively sell the deal to Hewlett and Packard family members before making it public? Had she underestimated the power and influence these family members might have in determining the future of the company? (Hoopes, 2003) Despite the cold reception of the deal by many investors and analysts, once approved by the boards at both HP and Compaq, the merger could be stopped from going through in only a handful of ways. The deal could be terminated if the companies mutually agreed to cancel it, if either company experienced a material adverse change, or if regulators rejected it. In addition, either company could decide to break up the deal; however, it would have to pay the other company a $675 million termination fee to do so. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, as a stock transaction, the deal could be terminated if shareholders of either company rejected it. (Williams, Hewletts Reject Deal to Join HP, Compaq, 2001) On September 3, 2001, Walter Hewlett voted with the rest of HPs board to O. K. the proposed merger. However, in the months leading up to the boards vote, Hewlett had expressed concern about the deal and its impact on his familys charities. But just days before the vote, he learned that the merger agreement called for unanimous board approval in order to ensure the best possible shareholder reception. Believing that the board would find a way to approve the merger regardless of how he voted, Hewlett reluctantly cast his final vote in favor of the deal. (Hoopes, 2003) 4 CONCLUSION: Ask Carly Fiorina Although the merger met with poor reception from Wall Street and industry analysts, Fiorina did not back down. She argued that the merger would eliminate one player in an oversupplied PC marketplace. Fiorina often spoke out of context for true economic theory, she needed guidance, yet skirted topics key to point such as integration and merger activities and vertical integration versus horizontal integration. On the other hand, a horizontal merger, by its very definition, reduces the number of firms that compete in the product market place, so maybe she was right. The merger would also eventually improve HPs market share across the hardware line and double the size of HPs service unit-both essential steps in being able to compete with industry-giant IBM. In addition, Fiorina argued, the merger would create a full-service technology firm capable of doing everything from selling PCs and printers to setting up complex networks. The merger would eliminate redundant product groups and costs in marketing, advertising, and shipping, while at the same time preserving much of the two companies revenues. (Hoopes, 2003) To critics who questioned HPs motives for the deal, Fiorina emphasized that the chief driver for the HP-Compaq merger was competitive positioning. To those who questioned the chances that the merger would succeed, Fiorina pointed out that the distinguishing characteristic of successful mergers is the focus on consolidation, not diversification-exactly what HP planned to do after its merger with Compaq. (Hoopes, 2003) To Fiorinas defense, IBM sold its PC division to Chinese manufacturer Lenovo. The company did eventually do everything that she set out to do, only not under her leadership. I believe that she had the vision statement down; it was the mission statement that needed some work. She did not fail in providing vision; she simply did not succeed in her execution of the mission. HP provided pink slips to thousands of former Compaq, DEC, HP, and Tandem employees, and its stock price generally declined and profits did not perk up. Though the merger initially helped HP make it to the top as the number one PC maker, it soon lost the lead along with further market share to Dell. In addition, the merging of stagnant Compaq with HPs lucrative printing and imaging division was criticized as that overshadowed the latters profitability. In February 2005, the Board of Directors ousted Fiorina. Former Compaq CEO, Capellas, was mentioned by some as a potential successor, but several months afterwards, Mark Hurd was hired as CEO. (Flyer, 2008) In late 2005, HPQ seemed to find its feet under the new leadership of Mark Hurd. At this same time, Dell seemed to be faltering and HPQ took back the number one sales position. Hurd separated the PC division from the imaging and printing division. HPs PC segment has since been reinvigorated and now generates more revenue than the traditionally more profitable printers. (Wikpedia, Compaq, 2009) Most Compaq products have been re-branded with the HP nameplate, such as the companys market leading ProLiant server line, while the Compaq brand remains on only some consumer-orientated products, notably Compaq Presario PCs. HPs business computers line was discontinued in favor of the Compaq Evo line, which was rebranded HP Compaq. HPs Jornada PDAs were replaced by Compaq iPAQ PDAs, which were renamed HP iPAQ. (Wikpedia, Compaq, 2009) In May 2007, HP in a press release announced a new logo for their Compaq Division to be placed on the new model Compaq Presario. In 2008, HP dropped the Compaq name from its HP Compaq business notebooks and is now marketing them as the HP EliteBook and as of early 2009, the HP ProBook, leaving the Compaq name for HPs entry-level consumer platforms. (Wikpedia, Compaq, 2009) Bibliography AllBusiness. (1998, September 28). The most powerful woman in American business is Carly Florina. | Media Telecommunications Publishing from AllBusiness. com. Retrieved June 26, 2009, from AllBusiness. com: allbusiness. com/media-telecommunications/publishing-electronic-publishing/7697607-1. html Baye, M. R. (2009). Managerial Economics and Business Strategy. In M. R. Baye, Managerial Economics and Business Strategy (pp. 5-15, 36, 257). New York: The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. Fiorina, C. (2001, September 4). HP Press Release: Compaq. com Hewlett-Packard and Compaq Agree to Merge, Creating $87 Billion Global Technology Leader. Retrieved June 26, 2009, from HP: hp. com/hpinfo/newsroom/press/2001pmc/pr2001090402. html

Word of Mouth in Marketing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Word of Mouth in Marketing - Essay Example Word-of-mouth communication can greatly influence and shape a person's expectations about a certain product, and more often than not play a large role in the final consumer decision. For instance, in marketing movies, word-of-mouth feedback can make or break the movie, that is why producers take particular care of screen-testing the movie for any possible tweaks they could do render in reference to initial feedback generated. This ensures that once the movie is released to the general public there is a much bigger chance for positive word-of-mouth amongst viewers. It is powerful, influential, and best of all it is something that not even the best-funded PR machine could buy. It levels the playing field for the lower-budgeted films and gives them a chance against the big studio blockbusters which abound. Of course, there are certain circumstances where other types of communication are more effective than word-of-mouth communication. While it is probably the most influential type of communication, it is not all- encompassing. For instance, it is highly unlikely that the typical consumer would rely on word-of-mouth for very big purchases such as cars and houses.

The Galapagos Island Tortoise Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The Galapagos Island Tortoise - Essay Example The Galapagos Tortoise are the largest living breed of tortoises in the world. They inhabit the nine islands of the Galapagos archipelago. While Charles Darwin was the first to research these animals, they were actually discovered by a Spanish explorer in the 1500’s. â€Å"Galapago† means tortoise in Spanish and most likely derives from the word saddle. The Galapagos turtles have a distinctive shell that is in the shape of a saddle. The size of these creatures is what sets them apart from other species. The adults can weigh over 660 lbs while they are approximately 4 feet long. Scientists have not figured out a maximum life expectancy for the tortoise however they are expected to live around 200 years. They are believed to belong to one species called Geochelone elephantopus, with approximately 14 different sub speciesThe arrival of the Galapagos tortoises is thought to be descended from a common ancestor that arrived from the mainland. They are capable floating quite e asily on the water. Scientists believe that the original colonist of tortoise washed aboard one island then its descendants were dispersed around the other islands-floating on the ocean currents. In the 1600’s buccaneers used the Galapagos Islands as a home port to repair their boats before attacking Spanish colonies on the South American mainland. They collected the tortoises and stored them aboard their ships because they lived for a long while. They were eaten as a source of food as well as killed for their turtle oil. The early settlers hunted them for their meat up through the 1800’s. ... If they feel threatened by another animal, they withdraw its head, neck and forelimbs into its shell for protection. Sometimes this is not enough as the top of their shell opening can leave a gap. Originally, this was never an issue because there were no native predators on the Galapagos Islands. It is only when settlers introduced domesticated animals that went wild that they became susceptible. And of course, they were hunted by the settlers for food. The conservation efforts of the tortoise populations still face challenges today. Rats, dogs, and pigs eat the eggs and young tortoises. Goats are in direct competition with them when acquiring food so many of them devastate the vegetation. Also, cattle, donkeys, and horses trample the ground squashing the tortoises nests. Efforts have been made to safeguard tortoises nests. One such example is that eggs are collected in the wild and incubated at the Charles Darwin Research Station. After they hatched, they would remain under vigil until they were large enough to fend off attacks from rats, dogs, and pigs. There have also been campaigns to eradicate the wild animals that pose a threat to the tortoise. These methods of preserving the giant tortoises have worked really well as it is predicted that only 120 turtles have been killed over the last 17 years. With all the work that has been put into the effort to keep the main attraction of the Galapagos islands from becoming extinct, there is still more work to be done. Many of the animals that are not native to the island should be removed in the effort to keep the these fascinating turtles alive and well. When Charles Darwin made a trip to the Galapagos Islands, he found a huge