Wednesday, December 25, 2019

An Evaluation Of The Production And Consumption Of A...

This is a critical evaluation of the production and consumption of a Burberry trench coat, which will also include a brief history of the trench. The text will cover an evaluation of shape, colour, form and material. It will also cover the processes and materials involved in the production. This will include wider meanings of the trench and its social functions, such as why is the trench coat so popular, and how does it stay that way. And most importantly, it will cover the key problems of which, Burberry might loose their success in the future. The trench coat includes a fairly long history. Schneider Sven, (2006) As mentioned by Sven, at present, the trench coat is universally classified as a raincoat. He includes in his article, it has†¦show more content†¦The coat also became very sticky in the heat and too solid in the cold. Schneider Sven (2006). This is also a very uncomfortable feature, which a wearer shouldn’t experience. Because of it’s unlikable features, the coat had became ostracized by the late 1830s. Schneider Sven (2006) As we know now, the invention was a great find, but it didn’t stay popular because of it’s numerous negatives. This brings us to the next craftsmen that competed to make a raincoat work. There were two more craftsmen who were competing to produce the best raincoat at the time. Unlike Macintosh with a rubberized version, John Emary developed an exceptional raincoat, that he called Aquascutum. Aquascutum was named after a latin term aqua, which translates as water and scutum. Schneider Sven (2006) Aquascutum was very successful and started producing coats for British soldiers, but not long after, Thomas Burberry became a high competitor. Baren Mourice (1996) He followed a completely different approach. Instead of using wool for the fabric, he decided to use something tougher. The fabric he used was woven of a long staple Egyptian cotton yarn that was waterproofed before and after the weaving. It was called Gabardine. The advantages of the coat were quite observed. It was scentless, lightweight, water-resistant and hard wearing. The material was

Monday, December 16, 2019

Advancements Of Science And Technology - 890 Words

Science and technology has been the basis for mankind since the beginning of time. It has improved the way humans live on the earth, and has refined the physical and social concepts on which mankind thrive upon. Transhumanists suggest we, as humans, through developing technologies, can refine our psychological, physical and intellectual abilities. Throughout time science and technology, has helped humans better ready themselves from natural disasters, improved the perspective on the geography of the earth and around it, as well as defined different cultures and societies around the globe. As much as technology has been criticized, it has even more developed the way of living and has made communication around the world easier and faster. Inventions and innovations have helped improve the way humans adapt and the quality of life. Science has helped determined, and helped prevent natural disasters. These fatal threats risk all living things on Earth. The advancement in technology has assisted in the protection from these catastrophic events. Before the technology that is available today, elders predicted weather through natural patterns that would help forecast the weather. Today, meteorologists use technology that is able to use the patterns to better predict more detailed weather conditions. By means of technology, monitoring severe weather systems, for example a tornado is really simple. Unlike hurricanes, the formation of tornadoes is harder to detect, but through theShow MoreRelatedThe Advancements Of Science And Technology1581 Words   |  7 Pageswork together to give us our desired quality of life. From food production, environmental conservation, possible cures for illnesses, etc., to understand how the things around us operate, we must be able to comprehend the science behind it. The advancements in science and technology were achieved because of the curious nature and perseverance of scientists from the past to present. Numerous experiments and research conducted, whether it was successful or not, contributed to our current knowledge aboutRead MoreAdvancement in Science and Technology1790 Words   |  8 PagesADVANCEMENT IN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY The Bahà ¡Ãƒ ­ Faith has, since its inception over 100 years ago, considered science and technology essential to the full development of the individual and of society. It has always regarded development as an all-encompassing process -- including the physical, mental, and spiritual well-being of all peoples -- and has considered that science and technology, channeled properly, can help to achieve this goal for all nations. The Bahà ¡Ãƒ ­ world community has also stressedRead MoreAdvancements Of The Field Of Science And Technology1557 Words   |  7 PagesIntroduction In just the first decade of the 21st century, exponential advancements have been made in the field of science and technology. Computing capabilities have grown multifold and we are now consuming information in measures of exabytes, which could soon cross over into zettabytes. In fact, it was estimated in 2011 that all of the computers in the world collectively crunched 9.57 zettabytes (Turnbull, 2011). All this information has created a dependency on machines to deliver results in theRead MoreScience Fiction, And, Star Wars And The Time Machine1487 Words   |  6 PagesScience fiction, a genre which has elapsed over decades in the industry, has gained many followers in its several forms of media. Science fiction, in the same sense, has also been analyzed for its value and has received many â€Å"Authorities† in the sense that these individuals allow for a more comprehensive look at this type of genre. Different types of subgenres have emerged due to the enhancement of â€Å" New Trains of Thought† produced by these â€Å"Authorities† and have taken this genre into a new perspectiveRead MoreThe Importance Of Science And Technology1352 Words   |  6 PagesThe importance of science and technology cannot be overlooked from our day to day lives. It has revolutionized the way we live. The creation of virtual spaces where distances do not matter, the bigger and better health care facilities which are now available, the effectiveness of the physical connectivity, the efficient utilization of the resources to the better ways of living, the use of the technology has definitely improved our standard of living. We are a part of the entire universal system andRead MoreReaction Paper on ‚Äà ºImmortality on Ice‚Äà ¹1555 Words   |  7 Pagesplanning on how to revive a person through the use of nanotechnology that can repair all the cells that were ruptured n the freezing process. The technology that they were referring in the movie is called Cryonics. This Cryonics would enable a man to prolong his life and at the same time be able to revive himself in certain conditions. As a technology, it also has technological system which various aspects. The first aspect is the techniques or human activity-form. In the Cryonics, it was seen onRead MoreJoseph Wright Derby s An Experiment On A Bird943 Words   |  4 Pagesutilize very different media, both works convey the complexity of humanity’s relationship with science and technology. Each piece depicts the struggle of reconciling our past, our humanity, and the brighter future promised by scientific and technological advancements. Joseph Wright’s An Experiment on a Bird in an Air Pump (later referred to as Experiment) was painted during a time of rapid advancements in science and industrialization that spurred the philosophical movement known as the Age of EnlightenmentRead MoreUse Of Special Effects On Science Fiction981 Words   |  4 Pagescategorized by the different styles being expressed in the film. Science fiction was influenced in early films by capturing the animation of different worlds or futures that may seem real but is actually fiction. Science fiction enables viewers to directly witness and understand science used by the corporation of visionary content. Their detailed images bring viewers closer to another world by creating a sense of reality. Science fiction films uses elements such as sounds, language, entertainmentRead MoreThe, Science And Imagination, By Wendel Berry Essay1640 Words   |  7 PagesDualism in Ethical Eights The advancement in technology and science has triggered a new way of thinking among many people. What seems challenging is drawing the limits of this advancement in terms of what is ideal and imperative for humanity. Science seems to provide concrete evidence for its discoveries. However, the increased reliance on scientific discoveries and technology is diminishing the human morals. All these are amidst the emergence of dualities such as religious fundamentalism and scientificRead MoreA Totalitarian World Of The Future1009 Words   |  5 Pagesabout the nature of science and technology and the conditions for technological progress, and how do events of the story establish that view?† DELETE THIS WHEN FINISHED Since the early ages, advancements in technology were caused by people’s curiosity in the world and its functions, resulting in the technologically advanced world we live in today. For instance, the most famous scientists of the Enlightenment of Europe has shaped the current standards of science and technology. Ayn Rand depicts a

Sunday, December 8, 2019

Evolution of Music free essay sample

People around the world are composing, as well as listening to, all kinds Of music, and this unifies nations in all countries and continents. Introduction to Literature is an anthology that consists of a variety of literary works poems, short stories, and excerpts from novels that discusses globalization. I believe that a chapter regarding the subject of music and its evolution should be included in the Introduction to Literature.Music has continuously been changing ever since the first beat was tapped, the first piano was struck, the first violin was plucked, and the first horn was blown; however, in the last 150 years, the meaning of lyrics and the style of music has changed drastically. From Binge Crosby to Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson and Mine, the artists and composers have altered the way music sounds on the radio, computer, and other musical devices. Every genre has artists, who have songs, which have lyrics that contain a story. Whether the story is from a memory, a dream, or an ambition, it becomes clear when it is being heard by billions of people. Music has become a basis for artists to exert their most inner emotions and thoughts into lyrics that others can relate to, live by, and act upon, as well as a means to degrade women in an approach that people dont realize until the lyrics are sought out, the song is eared an abundance of times, or the video is seen. This proposed chapter is about how music has become more degrading and demeaning towards women, but most importantly, how it has evolved through the decades.The reader should be able to experience how music has changed as he reads from page to page and understand that the adjustments have not necessarily been for the better. The first piece the reader encounters will be an insightful poem by the great Harlem writer, Longboats Hughes. This poem, The Weary Blues, is a fantastic piece to use for the poetry section Of class. It evokes a gloomy tone and the memo of a blues song; it contains strong diction and includes blues lyrics within the piece itself; and it portrays a wonderful example of imagery. This poem is also comprised of a relationship between the speaker and subject as in lines 1-3.As Hughes states Droning a drowsy syncopated tune, / Rocking back and forth to a mellow croon, / I heard a Negro play, he connects the audience to the performer by describing their interaction of rocking back and forth. The Weary Blues also ties in well with this chapter because it speaks of an earlier form of music: jazz. During the jazz period, music was not about owe harshly one could make his ex-wife sound to an audience, but freedom to play, listen, and dance to music. This idea of simplicity in music complements jazz musics complexity of rhythm, syncopation of notes, and improvisation that varies by player. This poem creates a smooth transition to the next item in the chapter. [pick For this piece, I envision the picture, as shown above, along with a paragraph below describing Eat James participation and involvement with music. She is a revolutionary woman who is an inspiration to Women every. Veer. James is also relatable to anyone who has faced difficult halogens, as she has battled with dementia, hepatitis C, and leukemia. This Grammar-winning singer began singing in choir and premiering on the radio at age 5.At the age of 16, she ventured to Los Angels to record The Wallflower, also known as Roll with Me Henry, change her name, and join a vocal group. She introduced her well known song At Last in 1961, which received the Grammar Hall of Fame Award in 1995. Not only has James been a part of the evolution of music, she has conquered the transformation and prevailed with singles that are still popular today. Eat James music has evolved alongside the passing decades. From singing in the times where blues and were popular to the times where pop music stood out, James songs were heard and topped the charts.Not only were her songs peaceful and easy to listen to, they contained meaningful lyrics and a story behind every song. Though the melodies, instrumentation, and tempos were important, the lyrics were what made Attaches songs relatable. Lyrics can be seen as the most significant aspect of a song because it is in the lyrics where the artist gets to share their memories and emotions with the audience. For this reason, the next two items of the chapter are lyrics from efferent decades. The third text in this chapter is Binge Crosby Beautiful Dreamer lyrics.These lyrics were originally written and published in March 1864 and have been performed by numerous singers. Binge Crosby rendition of this song was on his Greatest Hits: 1934-1943 CD. At the time Of this release, these lyrics were incredibly inspirational to all who heard it. It was not demeaning towards women, it used no offensive terminology, and unlike music that one might hear on Mix 93. 3, it brought hope and encouragement to the audience. In the chapter, this song comes before the fourth item lyrics for My Name Is so that it is in chronological order for the reader to see how music has evolved.Though My Name Is By Mine is more explicit than Crosby, most college students have heard the terminology stated in the song at least once before. Therefore, I believe this entry in the chapter is acceptable for admission. This song was produced in 1999 for the CD The Slim Shady l_p. My Name Is Is relatable to many of the songs one hears today when listening to hip hop and rap music. One of the prominent themes in this song is about attempting to get a woman for a one night stand. While rapping this hem, Mine uses degrading terminology in the explicit and extra-explicit versions.In the radio edit, he refers to women as extraterrestrial (line 29). He also says served the bartender, then walked out with a tip cup (line 28). This line that can be easily overlooked refers to him engaging in sexual relations with a Woman he most likely just met and then being paid because he was that good. This demeaning music is just one of the hundreds out there that kids listen to every day and slowly their subconscious believes that calling women these derogatory terms is acceptable. In the chapter, these woo lyrics should be on adjoining pages. These TV0 sets of lyrics need to be located this way so that the reader can visually compare and contrast them. Comparisons between these two lyrics are more difficult than spotting the differences. For example, Beautiful Dreamer is a shorter piece with repetition throughout the song, no stated chorus, many masculine rhymes, and examples of personification. My Name Is Is a longer song, contains a stated chorus, uses explicit language (most has been removed due to the radio edit), has both masculine and feminine rhymes, and includes multiple examples of hyperboles and metaphors. If listened to, these songs also are complete opposites in tempo and timbre. Beautiful Dreamer is a peaceful song that could be sung as a lullaby; on the other hand, My Name Is Has a much more upbeat tempo and almost a mocking tone. After looking closely and analyzing these two pieces, one can begin to see the comparisons. The first comparison between these two pieces is they both have a meaning behind each of their lyrics. Crosby IS singing as a lover who is serenading his other half. This woman is oblivious to the worldly cares as she lies dreaming the night away.Amines song has a different meaning to each person that hears this song. Mine may be establishing authority as a white rapper to gain street creed, exaggerating his childhood and youth, or he could just be absolutely insane and writing down random thoughts that go through his head. Another comparison between these two lyrics is the use of their rhyming. Mine uses both feminine and masculine rhymes in his song to project the harshness of his tone. He primarily uses the singe rhyme, such as straight / impregnate (lines 1 1-12). This utilization creates a sharper end to the phrase, which helps produce the projected tone.Crosby uses the masculine rhyme to help emphasize the waltz-like rhythm and placid tone. By not using multiple syllables at the end of the phrase, the emphasis is placed at the beginning of the line rather than the last word. Students can further discuss these comparisons and contrasts as well as come to their own conclusions regarding the themes for each song as a class activity. These two songs have been placed before the next item in the chapter so that the readers can see how women are portrayed from different time periods. This reason for placement is the main topic of From Fly-Girls to Pitches and Host y Joan Morgan.In this excerpt from Which Chickenhearted Come Home to Roost. .. My Life as a Hip-Hop Feminist, Morgan talks about how music started out as a way to show emotion, such as affection for a subject. She then moves On to share about how this method that once was used to express concerns, numbness, affection, and reactions has transformed the way our society behaves like gentleman and ladies to fells and gals to sonatas and host. This relates to the chapter because it shares a womans view on the negativity of music heard by children, teens, and adults today. Morgan takes a personal stance on the meaning lyrics used by many artists.Though she believes that it is wrong for artists to address women in such an offensive way, she states many of the ways in which men exploit our images and sexuality in hip-hop is done with our permission and cooperation (Morgan 605). She points out that it is not forced upon women to act in such seductive and sexual ways in music videos, as they are merely volunteers willing to disgrace and objectify themselves so they can be paid and get noticed. An example of the portrayal of women in a music video can be seen by the following piece in the proposed chapter.Jay-Z is a vociferous American rapper known for his risquà ©Ã‚ © music videos and his explicit lyrics that objectify women. For this entry in the chapter, there will be a picture of Jay-Z and the woman from the music video Excuse Me Miss at the time of 1:56. Underneath the picture will be a paragraph about Jay-Z, his lyrics, and this particular video. The instructor DOES NOT have to show this video in class or tell the students to see it outside of class. The reference to this video, along with the picture, gives a strong connection to why it belongs in the chapter. This picture is of Jay-Z looking towards the lining while sharing an elevator with a woman in a low cut, hole-filled, silver sequined dress and a black and white striped fur coat looking towards Jay-Z. The womans dress leaves little to the imagination and can be seen as very risquà ©Ã‚ ©. The lyrics to Excuse Me Miss supposedly refer to love at first sight, but if you disregard the lyrics and watch the first half of the video, it shows women scantily dressed, dancing provocatively, and looking in a seductive manner towards the rapper.This video, as well as the lyrics, dehumidifies women into objects that men can play with when they choose to do so. This portrayal of women is common in todays hip-hop and rap music and is shown in many videos, such as the one included in the chapter. Due to the representation of the female in which artists sing and rap about, children and teens are learning that it is okay to abuse, mistreat, and degrade women in life. Oakley Gillespie discusses this in her online article that finalizes the chapter. In Portray of Women Perpetuates Dangerous Attitudes toward Sexuality, Oakley Gillespie identifies different components of life that have been compromised due to the music heard from different media sources. In this article, Gillespie describes how healthy constructions of sexuality prevent sexual violence, but in todays time, our country is providing the exact opposite. She gives the artist Drake as an example of a social media source that hinders childrens view on women. He raps about taking advantage of women, guns, drugs and alcohol and continuously repeats the well known mantra you only live once. She gives the statistic that at least 60 percent of all music videos are sexually explicit songs that contain women dressed in provocative clothing, and 80 percent of movies shown on cable or network television have sexual content. The negative influence of music and other forms of media are helping increase sexual violence in America. The proposed chapter not only lets the reader exper ience the evolution of music through the years but also raises awareness of the derogatory terminology used in todays music. The poem The Weary Blues by Longboats Hughes gives the reader an insight of the soulfulness of blues, how pure the lyrics and melodies were, and how the singer and audience could connect through a simple interaction off body rocking back and forth. The photo and brief paragraph about Eat James shows the reader how the lyrics can make r break a song, how they can create a relationship with the audience, and how evolving ones music along with the popular music of the time is important.The lyrics by Binge Crosby and Mine reveal the most drastic changes of music within a time span of 135 years and how the perception of women has been altered. Joan Morgan challenges the reader to question the anger coming from the artists and rappers, informs the readers of the change in the tone of music, and calls for action by the reader to stop allowing these artists to demean women in their songs. Jay-Z shows the reader that women re portrayed in skimpy clothing, are euthanized and objectified, and a re shown to dance in a provocative and seductive manner in many music videos.

Sunday, December 1, 2019

Naturally Here free essay sample

Why am I here? I wondered, as the mild soft sunlight peered into my brown skin. The question vanished into the blue clear sky as this place was much more fascinating than the question. But there was no question of being ‘somewhere else’ than this beautiful garden. Now the place where I am; is just a god’s gift! The serene view I was experiencing sitting on the lush green lawn was just beyond one’s imagination; silent breeze flowing through the vividly green shade leaves of the trees, shadowing beneath were tiny bushes colored other than green, some were mellow yellow and some colors left me thinking. Looking around gradually, I observed a beautiful lake very still within the woods. The water was calm and had many different hues of blue. A ‘pop’ sound made me look closely at the lake; it was a fish: jumping over and proving its existence amid the silence. We will write a custom essay sample on Naturally Here or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page The breeze and the soft sun rays made ripples on the water, glimmer. Approaching near the shore I saw crystal clear translucent shade of blue, but as the water got deeper, the color got richer. I noticed a white wooden bridge making its path over the beautiful lake. I noticed some beautiful and colorful birds sitting on the bridge. I looked up as I heard the crackling voice of the wooden bridge as few kids went pass running over also noticed few more people admiring the natural beauty. The vintage bridge was structured beautifully with little brown fences on both sides which mirrored a reflection over the lake. With only a few handful people around me I questioned myself why wouldnt anyone else be here? I wondered again. Ive always marveled upon how profound the experience of nature knocks on our doors of true understanding of who we truly are. Usually people bind themselves in their own pragmatic way of life, unknowingly ignoring the surroundings. There are dozens of bustling masse s of bodies queuing up, constantly shoving and pushing each other in a Super Sale event. Unlike them, I have always been fascinated towards nature engrossed in capturing the best moments of my limited journey of life in my camera which is my closest friend. I preserve and share all those fascinating instances of the Mother Nature. I try to collate my findings on my photo-blog, to make finite improvements in my life by sharing and accepting words of advice! â€Å"They say if you exchange a dollar with another you still have only a dollar with you; but if you exchange a thought each one has two!† While all this is so caressed I often wonder isnt it lesser fun to run behind fictitious unnatural attractions rather than towards the natural beauty? I am just astonished by the ignorance by the masses over the established and protected beauty of nature. Weve all heard that the nature is one of humanity’s greatest teachers- but we yet do not believe in this truly. Every tiny element of Mother Nature teaches you to improve a quality in life. Trees withstand all pressure but still stand strong, Mountains teach to be stable amidst the varying nature, fishes explain us to ‘keep moving’ and we learn from flowers to blossom no matter how hard the surrounding may be. I always learnt that a worn-out autumn is always followed by a blossoming spring. How can someone be elsewhere if one can learn so naturally? Nature is a place where you can walk over the damp grass and feel the true love from the nature, it’s a place where race, religion or caste doesnt matters to be loved and helped, it’s a place where you can just lie down in vain and truly rely. I found my answer in the same place; I want to be with Mother Nature every day for not letting off an opportunity to learn from every single element of the nature. I come ‘here’ to appreciate what the nature truly gives me, food, shelter, air and water and not the least â€Å"A peace of mind!† What I gain is what I should give back as I give back to the community where I live by volunteering, like in hospitals, I can give back to nature by visiting appreciating and help preserving, spreading awareness among those who don’t care for nature. Planting trees, preserving water Because ‘here’ is where I come from and ‘here’ is where I will end.

Tuesday, November 26, 2019

Twelve Monkeys and La Jetee Comparison. essays

Twelve Monkeys and La Jetee Comparison. essays I believe that Twelve Monkeys and La Jete both approach memory in the same way. However, they do differ in certain aspects. The main theme of Twelve Monkeys is based on La Jete, so the core of the film is obviously going to remain the same, or at least close to it. Both films take place in the future, and deal with how the scientists of the dying human race are trying to get a person to time travel and save the future. The main characters in both films are nearly identical in terms of the memory they use to hold on to their reality (The man being shot and the womans beautiful face.) Although the memories are virtually the same, there is one large difference in their recollection. In Twelve Monkeys, Coles memory changes throughout the film. After his first trip to the past, he imagines Jeffrey Goines as the man with the red hair at the airport. He is convinced that Goines released the virus, so his memory changes to accommodate his belief. In La Jete, the main characters memory nev er changes. This hints that the characters differ in terms of imagination and comprehension of facts. The movies are also different in terms of how they handle traveling into the past. The main character in La Jete always knows his time. He never has a doubt that his place is in the lab with the scientists. In Twelve Monkeys, Cole gets addicted to the past. The boundaries between the different realities begin to blur and Cole eventually gets confused as to which time is the proper time. At one point in the movie when he is in the past, he tells Dr. Railly that he knows that he is crazy and she has been right the whole time. Luckily, she is already convinced that he was telling the truth and he is from the future, so she gets him back to reality. I believe that in Twelve Monkeys, Cole is made to appear weaker and more human so viewers have an easier time relating to the character. La...

Friday, November 22, 2019

An Overview of Municipal Waste and Landfills

An Overview of Municipal Waste and Landfills Municipal waste, commonly known as trash or garbage, is a combination of all of a citys solid and semisolid waste. It includes mainly household or domestic waste, but it can also contain commercial and industrial waste with the exception of industrial hazardous waste (waste from industrial practices that causes a threat to human or environmental health). Industrial hazardous waste is excluded from municipal waste because it is typically dealt with separately based on environmental regulations. Five Categories of Municipal Waste The second category of municipal waste is recyclable materials. Paper is also included in this category but non-biodegradable items like glass, plastic bottles, other plastics, metals and aluminum cans fall into this section as well. Inert waste is the third category of municipal waste. For reference, when discussed with municipal waste, inert materials are those that are not necessarily toxic to all species but can be harmful or toxic to humans. Therefore, construction and demolition waste is often categorized as inert waste. Composite waste is the fourth category of municipal waste and includes items that are composed of more than one material. For example, clothing and plastics such as childrens toys are composite waste. Household hazardous waste is the final category of municipal waste. This includes medicines, paint, batteries, light bulbs, fertilizer and pesticide containers and e-waste like old computers, printers, and cellular phones. Household hazardous waste cannot be recycled or disposed of with other waste categories so many cities offer residents other options for hazardous waste disposal. Municipal Waste Disposal and Landfills Today, landfills are engineered to protect the environment and prevent pollutants from entering the soil and possibly polluting ground water in one of two ways. The first of these is with the use of a clay liner to block pollutants from leaving the landfill. These are called sanitary landfills while the second type is called a municipal solid waste landfill. These types of landfills use synthetic liners like plastic to separate the landfills trash from the land below it. Once trash is put into these landfills, it is compacted until the areas is full, at which time the trash is buried. This is done to prevent the trash from contacting the environment but also to keep it dry and out of contact with air so it will not quickly decompose. About 55% of the waste generated in the United States goes to landfills while around 90% of waste created in the United Kingdom is disposed in this manner. In addition to landfills, waste can also be disposed using waste combustors. This involves the burning of municipal waste at extremely high temperatures to reduce waste volume, control bacteria, and sometimes generate electricity. Air pollution from the combustion is sometimes a concern with this type of waste disposal but governments have regulations to reduce pollution. Scrubbers (devices that spray liquids on smoke to reduce pollution) and filters (screens to remove ash and pollutant particles) are commonly used today. Finally, transfer stations are the third type of municipal waste disposal currently in use. These are facilities that where municipal waste is unloaded and sorted to remove recyclables and hazardous materials. The remaining waste is then reloaded onto trucks and taken to landfills while the waste that can be recycled for example, is sent to recycling centers. Municipal Waste Reduction Composting is another way cities can promote municipal waste reduction. This type of waste is comprised solely of biodegradable organic waste like food scraps and yard trimmings. Composting is generally done on the individual level and involves the combination of organic waste with microorganisms like bacteria and fungi that break down the waste and create compost. This can then be recycled and used as a natural and chemical free fertilizer for personal plants. Along with recycling programs and composting, municipal waste can be reduced via source reduction. This involves the reduction of waste through the alteration of manufacturing practices to reduce the creation excess materials which get turned into waste. The Future of Municipal Waste To further reduce waste, some cities are currently promoting policies of zero waste. Zero waste itself means reduced waste generation and the 100% diversion of the remainder of waste from landfills to productive uses via materials reuse, recycling, repair and composting. Zero waste products should also have minimal negative environmental impacts over their lifecycles.

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Acceleration - Mass over a pulley Lab Report Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Acceleration - Mass over a pulley - Lab Report Example Newton’s second law motion, which one of these essential laws, can be stated mathematically as: F=ma (Shukla). This means that acceleration (a) of a moving object is directly proportional to applied force (F) and inversely proportional to the mass of the body (m) (Shukla). This acceleration is parallel and is in the direction of the net applied force. This experiment investigated Newton’s Second Law of Motion. i. This equation shows that provided that the mass of the body is constant, acceleration (a) of the body is directly proportional to the force applied (F). For Newton’s low to be valid the acceleration must take place in the direction of force, and must be parallel to it (Shipman). It is normally not easy to measure acceleration directly in experiments; therefore, an indirect method is used. In this case travel distances (x) and travel times (t) may be used. These times and distances can be used to calculate acceleration directly, or velocities (initial and final velocities) may be first calculated (Shipman). The velocities may finally be used to calculate acceleration. Therefore, For test 1, the experiment was set up as shown in the diagram above, but without the photogates. The direction of motion of the body M was noted. For both test 2 and test 3 photogates were installed, and were used to measure time taken (t) to travel the distance x. For test 2, the mass of the object (M) was kept constant while the suspended mass (F) varied using five different masses (50g, 75g, 100g, 125g, and 150g). For each suspended mass (F), the procedure was repeated for five different distances (20cm, 30cm, 40cm, 50cm and 60cm). Time taken to travel each distance xi for each mass was noted and recorded in the worksheet. For test 3, the suspended mass (F) was kept constant (75g) while the mass of the body (M) was varied; masses 500g, 750g, 1000g, 1250g and 1575g were used. For each mass, the procedure was repeated for five different

Tuesday, November 19, 2019

Leading Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Leading - Essay Example Leaders see a vision and communicate that vision to their followers or subordinates. They focus on tomorrow rather than today. They inspire action and change. They are characterized by their people’s skills, their ability to motivate and get the last ounce of effort from their staff in time of crisis (McGovern, et. al 2008). On the other hand, they frequently dislike detail and routine, and can appear wildly disorganized to their colleagues. Leaders are optimistic, self-motivated, persuasive, convincing and goal oriented personnel. They are needed in all workplaces because of their ability to lead and to motivate the employees in different times. They help the management in bringing about a change. They facilitate the employees to move in a direction which is considered important by them. The leadership that is considered attractive and effective is that kind of leadership that keeps the capacity of persuasion. Effective leaders are always able to motivate people in their set direction. The leaders make people do their suggested jobs, as they exercise a certain power on employees on the basis of their effective motivation and encouragement (Parry and Hansen 2007). There are eleven kinds of leadership styles, as leaders are not all alike. They differ from one another on the basis of their opted strategies for leading people. There are bureaucratic leaders who have well thought-out and considered tasks, these kinds of leaders negate the innovatory ideas as they are stick to some set of rules and principles and also make sure that the principles and laws are not overruled (McGovern, et. al 2008). Another kind of leadership style is charismatic leadership in which, the leaders are mostly interested in inculcating energy and fervor in the employees due to which, they take deep interest in a task. Autocratic leadership is a form of leadership in which, the leader has the authority to exercise all his power in

Sunday, November 17, 2019

Marketing Mix Analysis of iPad Essay Example for Free

Marketing Mix Analysis of iPad Essay Executive Summary Managing and developing marketing mix appropriately is extremely important to firms marketing and success. In order to marketing product successfully, the right product must be exhibited to right people at the right place, right price and right time. If a firm can manage the marketing mix successfully, as a result, it can be a source of competitive advantage for firms. Each element of the marketing mix should be analyzed and if necessary, adapted to ensure that the right balance is achieved to give the product or service the very best chance of success in the market place. Apple is a successful company and its previous product iPod has a high market share in the global market due to its brand perception and image as s high quality innovative brand. In 2010, Apple launched an innovative product – â€Å"iPad† in US, which is a tablet computer with touch screen. Even in the first launching date iPad had been sold 0.3 million units. The product no doubt is getting support of Apple’s brand image and it has changed the way to consumer lifestyle. That is why iPad is thought as a revolutionary who will arouse a wave to electronic industry. Apple’s iPad delivered the value to the customer via marketing mix tools called the 4Ps: * Product looks good and works well. * Right price. * Right place at the right time. * Successful promotion helps to a larger output. Apple followed this by innovation and introducing new products in the market to satisfy consumer’s needs and wants. The current author here will use the theories, concepts of marketing mix to analysis the iPad. The remainder of this essay is structured into five parts. It begins by defining marketing mix and its evolution. Second, it analyse the company, iPad, its competitor and consumer. Third, it illuminates the marketing mix by analysing iPad. Finally it ends with the overall assessment and conclusion. Contents 1.Introduction and Definition3 1.1Definition of Marketing3 1.2Definition of Customer Value and Value Proposition3 1.3Definition of Marketing Mix4 2.Description of Apple iPad4 2.1Brief Introduction of Apple4 2.2Introduction of iPad5 2.3Brief Consumer Profile6 2.4Brief Competitor Profile7 3.Marketing Mix Analysis of iPad7 3.1Product7 3.2Price10 3.3Place12 3.4Promotion14 4.Assessment of Overall Value Delivered16 5.Conclusion16 6.References18 1. Introduction and Definition 2.1 Definition of Marketing â€Å"Marketing is the process by which individuals and groups obtain what they need and want through creating and exchanging products and value with others and forging relationships with customers.† (Philip Kotler, Gary Armstrong, 2009). This definition recognizes the importance of creating a long term relationship with customers and identifies the importance of satisfying customer wants. 2.2 Definition of Customer Value and Value Proposition Customer value is the difference between the values that the customer gains from owning and using a product and the costs of obtaining the product. Put it simply, customer value is created when the perceptions of benefits received from a transaction exceed the costs of ownership. The same idea can be expressed as a ratio (Chiristopher, 1996): Customer value = Perceptions of benefits The definition of customer value proposition is a well defined and persuasive marketing statement related to a specific product or service that details the reasons why a consumer would benefit from purchasing it. A value proposition is the definition of a firms promise to create and deliver customer value (Chapelet and Tovstiga, 1998). Fig 1.2.1 A model of value creation and the marketing process source: Adapted from Kotler Brown Burton Deans Armstrong, (2010), â€Å"Marketing† 8th Edition Figure 1.2.1 shows a typical model of value creation and the marketing process. Put it simple, marketing is a process cycle which consists of 5 simple steps as below: i. Customer buys or potential customer is contacted to understand the marketplace. ii. Finding out how the customer liked the product or what is needed. iii. Analysing these data and creating a plan that includes goals, strategy and its marketing mix. iv. Implement the plan that delivers value to customer which results in the customer’s buying the product and creating customer delight. v. Repeating the cycle starting with step (i) to step (iv) to make a better product sold with a better plan and continuously keeping this cycle going. Hence, create profits and customer equity. 2.3 Definition of Marketing Mix The concept of the Marketing Mix was first created by Neil H. Borden in his article called â€Å"The concept of the Marketing Mix† in 1964. In his article he explained the importance of a market to try to â€Å"mix ingredients† in their process in the market in order to be successful. E. Jerome McCarthy later grouped these ingredients into the four categories that are known as the 4Ps of marketing (Product, Price, Place and Promotion). Product What does the customer want from the product/service? Price What is the value of the product or service to the buyer? Place Where do buyers look for the product or service? Promotion Where and when can get across the marketing messages to target market? 2. Description of Apple iPad 3.4 Brief Introduction of Apple Apple Inc., founded in 1976, is an American multinational corporation which is best-known for its hardware and software products. The hardware products are: Macintosh, iPod, iPhone and iPad. One example of the famous software of Apple is iTunes, a proprietary media player application that works with iTunes store and allows customers to download music and offers other features of consumer electronics. Fortune magazine named Apple as the most admired company in the US in 2008, and in the world from 2008 to 2012. 3.5 Introduction of iPad On January 27, 2010, Apple introduced the much-anticipated media tablet, the iPad (As shown in Fig2.2.1). Fig 2.2.1 Introduction of iPad (source: www.apple.com) The iPad measure 9.7 inch wide screen display with multi touch screen with 1024 x 768 resolutions which is lighter and thinner than any other notebooks or laptops. Its internal 25 watt-hour battery can run up to 10 hours of video, 140 hours of audio playback and one month on standby as Apple claims. Steve Jobs stated that, with the introduction of the iPad, Apple had opened a market for a new class of mobile devices. (As shown in Fig 2.2.2) Fig2.2.2 Apple iPad First Hands-on (source: http://www.ipadforums.net) 3.6 Brief Consumer Profile Consumer market can be defined as â€Å"all the individuals and households who buy or acquire goods and services for personal consumption† and consumer buying behavior can be defined as â€Å"the buying behavior of final consumers, individuals and households who buy goods and services for personal consumption† (Kotler, 2009). Table 2.3.1 shows the analysis of market segmentation for iPad. SEGMENTATION BASE| SELECTEDSEGMENTATION VARIABLES| Geographic Segmentation| Region| West Malaysia, east Malaysia| City size| Major metropolitan areas, cities| Density of area| Urban| Climate| Hot, humid, rainy| Demographic Segmentation| Age| 18-34, 35-49, 50-64| Sex| Male, female| Married status| Single, married, divorced, living together| Income| RM40,000 and over| Education| College, college graduate, postgraduate| Occupation| Professional, white-collar| Psychological| Needs| Sense of self-worth, fashionable| Personality| Extroverts, novelty-seeker, aggressives| Perception| Low-risk| Learning-involvement| High-involvement| Attitudes| Possitive attitude| Psychographic| Lifestyle| Couch-potatoes, outdoor enthusiasts, status-seekers| Cultures| Malay, Chinese, Indian, and other foreigners| Religion| Muslim, buddhism, hinduism, christian, catholic, and others| Social| Middle, upper| Family| Bachelors, young married, full nesters, empty nesters| Use-Rated Segmentation| Usage rate| Heavy users, medium users| Awareness status| Aware, interested, enthusiastic| Brand loyalty| Strong| Use-Situation Segmentation| Time| Leisure, work, morning, night| Objective| Personal, fun, achievement| Location| Home, work, mega mall, restaurant| Person| Self, family members, friends, peers| Benefit Segmentation| Convenience, social acceptance, easy e-book reading, value-for-the-money, service| Table 2.3.1 Market segmentation for iPad From analysis above can see that most of Apple’s users are high-end clients who have the strong purchasing power, easily accept new technology and they are very loyal to Apple. 3.7 Brief Competitor Profile Apple iPad bring threats and impact to PC industry in some way. On one hand, the hot-sell of iPad attracts many PC manufacturers set foot in this field. So the other tablet computers will be the biggest competitor, such as Blackberry’s playbook, this is a tablet computer which located in business person, and it will also attract public’s eyes because of its vast multimedia function. On the other hand, the price advantage of netbook is also a challenge to iPad. After all compared with traditional computer, iPad may not a necessity. To some business and professional people, they will choose the traditional notebook rather than iPad. 3. Marketing Mix Analysis of iPad According to the information that searches from magazines and internet, the author knows many information of iPad. The author here will use the theories, concepts of marketing mix to analysis the iPad. 4.8 Product â€Å"Product means the goods-and-services combination the company offers to the target market. â€Å" (Philip Kotler, Gary Armstrong, 2009). The iPad bridges the gap between smart phone and laptop, it offers equivalent range of features and functions that a computer does. It has internet capabilities running on both Wi-Fi and 3G. Some of the features are discussed previously. Fig 3.1.1 shows its tech specs. Access to Apple Apps Store which has over 300,000 applications and to iTunes are attractive features of iPad. Fig 3.1.1 Tech Specs for Apple iPad (source: http://www.apple.com) Value delivered to customer: 1) Convenient to Carry and Easy to Use Compared to functionalities and performance, it is surprised that iPad weighs only 1.5 pounds. It is very thin and sleek measuring only 0.5 inches. This lightweight iPad is very useful for business trip, making it easy to transport as compared to a laptop. Not only it is easier to carry it around, but also be able to use it to check e-mails, show videos and photos to people instantly whenever required with its long battery life, which at 10 hours is 2-5 times longer than a notebook (As shown in Fig 3.1.2). Fig 3.1.2 E-mail and photo function for iPad (source: http://www.cnbeta.com) 2) Easy for E-Book Reading One benefit that can’t miss is the iBooks Application. Customer can download the favorite e-books to iPad and read while traveling (As shown in Fig 3.1.3). Fig 3.1.3 E-books on Apple iPad (source: http://www.telegraph.co.uk) Retrieving books to read on ibooks application on iPad is simply easy. Browse through the e-bookshelf on the iPad, choose one title wish to read and click, the book opens in front. Customer can view the book in portrait or landscape, and the way the pages flip is awesome flip it with finger and looks just like a real book. 3) Excellent Service for Customer What’s more, the service of iPad is very nice. Apple has its own key service iTunes. Customer can get this value to enjoy the all kinds of internet resources such as music, video and applications (As shown in Fig 3.1.4). Fig 3.1.4 iTunes on Apple iPad (source: http://www.ipadforums.net guardian.co.uk guardia guardia) The iTunes online store makes it incredibly easy to purchase songs and load them onto the devices. When customer wants to watch or listen, they neither need to search from the CDs nor television channels. What they need to do is just opening the iTunes, all they want is in iTunes, it let the media browse much faster, it is easier to sort. 4.9 Price â€Å"Price is the amount of money customers have to pay to obtain the product. â€Å" (Philip Kotler, Gary Armstrong, 2009). The iPad is priced starting from $499 for 16 GB storage to $829 for 64GB storage and 3G connectivity. In detail, tab 3.2.1 shows the price of iPad selling in Malaysia. iPad| 16G| 32G| 64G| Wi-Fi| RM 1, 549.00| RM 1, 849.00| RM 2, 149.00| Wi-Fi + 3G| RM 1, 999.00| RM 2, 299.00| RM 2, 599.00| Tab 3.2.1 Selling price of iPad (source: http://www.apple.com guardian.co.uk guardia guardia) Value delivered to customer: 1) Eco-friendly Device for Environment Protection The iPad is made of recyclable glass and Aluminum and the packaging material is recyclable the packing is efficiently done. It is not using Arsenic, PVC, bromine fire, Mercury as the company has restricted the use of harmful chemicals. With such price, customers are not buying the fashionable device only, more importantly, they are making contribution to environment protection. Fig 3.2.1 shows how green is the iPad. Fig3.2.1 How green is the iPad (source: http://sortable.com) 2) Flexible Price as Actual Needs The iPad price varies according to its storage capacity and the internet access capacity, which leads to reducing the initial cost on the first ever tablets based on customer’s actually needs and application (As shown in Fig3.2.2). Fig3.2.2 Price and configuration of the iPad (source: http://www.apple.com) 3) Cost Saving with Maxis Bundled Package It is available on Maxis bundled packages with a 24-month contract based on different types of iPad internet plan (As shown in Fig 3.2.3). By doing so, the price of iPad has been dropped down from RM450 to RM950. The plan is much more attractive not only for those who can’t afford to pay for the high price, but also for some of the SME to extend their business. Fig 3.2.3 Maxis iPad Bundled Packages (source: http://www.maxis.com.my) 4.10 Place â€Å"Place includes company activities that make the product available to target consumers. â€Å" (Philip Kotler, Gary Armstrong, 2009). Apple started selling the iPad not only from its official websites, but also retail outlets and Apple Store. Value delivered to customer 1) Easy Walk-in Location for Purchase The iPad can be purchased from Apple Store, Apple Premium Reseller and Apple Authorized Reseller located in Malaysia. All shops are conveniently located and beautifully designed, identified by the large backlit Apple logo, such as in most famous shopping mall like Sunway Primary, One Utama, KLCC and Mid Valley in Selangor, even in Melaka, Penang, Sabah and Sarawak. The value is so easy for customer to come and have a journey on iPad (As shown in Fig 3.3.1). Fig 3.3.1 Apple shops in Malaysia In each shop, customer will be able to find dedicated Apple-trained and Apple-certified Mac experts who can come up with the right solution for you. 2) Time-Saving Online Order Apple iPad are also available on internet for the customers on Apple’s website. Online purchase is the easiest and time saving way for most of them (As shown in Fig 3.3.2). Fig3.3.2 Online Apple store for iPad (source: http://www.apple.com) On the website, the Apple explains the number of features and benefits of iPad. This adds the value to the consumers as convenience is a value that people appreciate and for which they will pay more than the actual price. 3) Golden Service for Apple Loyalty When customer are on the go, the Apple Store app is the best way to research, personalize and buy products from Apple and get the most out of customer’s visits to the Apple Retail Store for Apple loyal fans. Fig 3.3.3 shows what can do with the Apple Store app on the iPhone or iPod touch from search to pay. Fig3.3.3 Apple store apps for iPhone and iPod Touch (source: http://www.apple.com) 4.11 Promotion â€Å"Promotion means activities that communicate the merits of the product and persuade target customers to buy it. â€Å" (Philip Kotler, Gary Armstrong, 2009) Apple Company had been promoting the iPad with the help of social media campaigns and multi-channel media strategy. Value delivered to customer: 1) Multiple Channel for Better Understanding of iPad The online promotion by Apple on Facebook, YouTube and other related websites approaches to the consumers added more value to the decision of consumers of buying iPad. Same like in stores all the information is available online for customers. Customers can download brochure from its website for their convenience. When Apple announced the idea of iPad, most fans write blogs and share through internet. Customer will see them and many videos about iPad, some of them are made by Apple and some are made by other people. These blogs and videos are shared by many other people through many ways (As shown in Fig 3.4.1). Fig3.4.1 Video sharing about iPad (source: http://www.9to5iPad.com/) 2) Custom Engraving of iPad Apple had offered free iPad engraving from its online store, allowing customers to add a personal touch to the tablet in time for the holiday seasons (As shown in Fig 3.4.2). Customers are given the option to engrave up to 2 lines of free text on the back of an iPad after selecting an iPad model and any desired accessories from the online store. Fig 3.4.2 Website about iPad engraving (Source: http://store.apple.com/) 3) Free Delivery for On-line Purchase When purchasing the iPad online from Apple’s official website, customer will get the value of free delivery. Just wait for 3-4 business days, the product will be arrived on hand safely. 4. Assessment of Overall Value Delivered Apple has always placed a major emphasis on the marketing and the brand awareness of its products. The iPad’s advantage is that they offer several different features in one product. Converging all the new technology into one product is the route apple is seeking. It’s making life easier for their consumers by being able to conduct many applications in the one product. Apple’s iPad followed all the 4P’s of marketing mix to deliver the high level of value to the customers. The company has manufactured an iPad using strong in-built applications. The gadget permits people to work and entertain anytime anywhere, as a value of experiencing its easy and convenient use. It provides value to customers through a huge number of features which helps in saving time and energy. Adding more to customer value the price of iPad is competitive and flexible in the market as discussed above. It advertised on T.V., newspapers, magazine, radios and also on internet, which makes people have clearer understanding in various channel. It provides value by available at all the apple stores and website. From the iPad’s 4P’s analysis, we can easily see the difference of it, and can answer the question â€Å"why people buy it which seems unnecessary product.† Apple iPad satisfy their needs and this delivers the value as a product and service in terms of features, style performance, durability, quality, reliability and design to the customer. 5. Conclusion Apple iPad is a new product which has made a dent in the history of tablet business domain and the first successful product. This has also ignited the demand for new and improved tablets from Apple and other competitors. Apple has used the 4P’s of marketing in a very efficient and proper manner, so that added the value to the customer’s decisions of purchasing iPad. When Apple introduced iPad, they intended to come across the consumer’s wants and demands which would satisfy to their lifestyles. Apple in future which demands more innovative products and the company still need to adapt to expected changes in iPad which they have already started in their new iPad 2. With their experience, they are able to continue strengthen its position in the industry. 6. References 1. Philip Kotler, Gary Armstrong. (2009). Principles of Marketing. (7th Edition). Australia. Pearson. 2. Kotler Brown Burton Deans Armstrong. (2010). Marketing (8th Edition). Australia. Pearson. 3. Borden, N. H. (1964). â€Å"The concept of the Marketing Mix†. Journal of Advertising Research. Vol II 4. APDGT YAMAMOTO. â€Å"Understanding Customer Value Concept: Key To Success†. pp. 547-552. 5. Chapelet, B. and Tovstiga, G. (1998), â€Å"Development of a research methodology for accessing a firm’s business process-related technologies†, International Journal of Technology Management, Vol. 15 Nos  ½, pp. 10-30. 6. Apple Annual Reports, 2010 7. www.apple.com 8. www.maxis.com.my

Thursday, November 14, 2019

GCSE Business Studies - Starting a Business - Business Plan - Sporting

GCSE Business Studies - Starting a Business - Business Plan - Sporting Glory Business Plan a) Name: Sporting Glory b) Address: High Street, Sutton, Surrey. c) Limited Company/Partnership/Sole Trader: Sole Trader - Will go public (PLC) if business is successful. d) What does your business do? The business will sell quality affordable sports clothes and equipment through a retail store. e) Date you started trading: The business will start trading early 2003, depending on how quickly the business is set up. f) Aims: To sell quality sports clothes equipment that is affordable, covering a wide range of sports and customers needs. g) Products/Services offered: The business will offer sports clothing and equipment manufactured by big well known sports brands such as Nike, Adidas, Reebok, Umbro etc. h) The Market: The market will be the sports market and the business will be targeting teenagers and young adults who want to be fit and have the latest sports and trendy gear. The market is very big as many other business selling similar products are already established and running smoothly. Therefore competition will be hard to put off as it consists of well known and accepted shops such as All Sports, JJB Sports etc. i) Personnel: The entrepreneur/businessperson will be Murtuza Husain (myself) who has thought up the business idea and is also investing his personnel money into ...

Tuesday, November 12, 2019

An inspector calls, drama and tension Essay

An Inspector Calls Essay How does Priestley build the drama and tension in this extract? The extract is from page 47 starting ‘MRS B: I’m sorry she should have come to such a horrible end. But I accept no blame for this at all’ In this extract, JB Priestley builds drama and tension through the use of dramatic irony. Mrs Birling does not realise until the very end of the scene that her own son is responsible for Eva Smith’s pregnancy. However, Sheila and the audience begin to realise this before her. So, when she says things like ‘I blame the young man of the child she was going to have’, we realise that she is unknowingly incriminating herself and her son. This makes it tense and exciting, because we want to see what will happen when she eventually does realise that the person she is being so harsh on is her own son. In this extract, JB Priestley also builds up drama and tension through having Sheila realise the truth of the situation long before her mother. Sheila is constantly interrupting trying to explain to her mother that by blaming the father of the child she is only blaming her own son. For example, she says ‘Mother-stop-stop!’ and ‘But don’t you see-‘ As well as her words, the stage directions show that she is getting increasingly ‘agitated’ and ‘hysterical’ in attempting to warn her mother about what is happening. This is very tense and dramatic because Mr and Mrs Birling misinterpret her words and just assume that she is overexcited; this is consolidated through the use of imperatives, which connotes Sheila’s desperation to be listened to. They assume she is being silly, when in fact she is the closest of all of the Birling family to true insight at this point.

Saturday, November 9, 2019

Effects of Technology on Enviroment Essay

Effects of technology on environment. Selection of topic Now a day the world relies totally on technologies. Therefore, it is important to discuss on the effect caused on environment due to these technologies. Aims and objectives To study about effects of technology on earth. To study its negative and positive impact on environment. To discuss how to decreases its ill effect. To analysis the energy consumed per year on technologies. Relevance The Negative Ecological Impacts of Technology One of the biggest problems the world faces today is the amount of energy that is consumed globally. With almost all of the world’s businesses using computer technology to operate, the energy consumption of the industrial world is constantly on the increase. Countries such as the United States where the average employee works more than 40 hours a week, as a result, the energy consumption of a typical office in the United States is likely to be higher than that of an office in a country where the average work week does not exceed 40 hours. Many offices run their computer systems on a mainframe server. This server is usually running 24 hours a day and is rarely shut down. To keep these servers from overheating, fans are installed within the hard drives. With the combined energy of the fans and the operation of the servers, the amount of energy being consumed is huge and results in a very high thermal count. According to the International Energy Agency or, IEA, around 4% of the world’s energy consumption in 2008 was due to the mass use of information communications technologies. This figure is predicted to rise to an incredible 40% by the time the year 2030 arrives. By this time, the demands on the world’s electricity sources will have also doubled globally and companies will need to have a viable solution to prevent computer technologies from being a major drain on the world’s energy resources. The  Positive Ecological Impacts of Technology Despite the claims that technology is to blame for many of the world’s ecological problems, technology has also served to improve the shape of our planet. Since the rise of technology in the workplace, numerous ICT companies have been designing â€Å"greener technology† to combat the detrimental effect that computers and their accompanying technology have on the environment. One of the best known organizations is the Green Grid. The Green Grid is an organization that consists of IT companies and professionals from around the world. The Green Grid is devising ways to improve the way energy is consumed by IT oriented businesses and their offices. One of the biggest achievements of the Green Grid is the Power Usage Effectiveness or, PUE, metric system. This system records data center energy consumption. How it works is by recording the energy consumption of a data center or mainframe server every 15 minutes. By recording in these 15 minute increments it helps those monitoring the data to notice if there are any energy fluctuations and if the data center systems are using an adequate amount of energy. The long term goal of the Green Grid is to introduce a standard system that allows business managers and IT operatives to compare the amount of the energy they are consuming and if necessary resolve ways to reduce it. Another technology that is having positive impacts on the environment is low carbon technology. Low carbon technology is a form of technology that has been developed in China. Largely developed because of China’s low carbon footprint in comparison to other developing countries, the low carbon technology aims to offset the amount of emissions polluting the air by using renewable fossil fuels. Observation Improvements in the technology have antagonistic effects on the human life along with the positive effects. The growth of the technology leads to very severe problems like pollution, unemployment, effects social life of the humans etc.. First of all, the most serious problem is pollution, which is created by the technological inventions like vehicles, industries, etc.. Now-a-days the vehicles like cars, bikes are increasing which is leading to increase in pollution. The other problem is radiation caused by the increase in the mobile phones. Secondly, in most of the developing countries like  India the major problem is unemployment. This problem is mostly caused by the increase in the instruments, which are the results of improvement in the technology. Finally, in today’s world all the people are getting addicted to the internet like social sites, games and they also becoming victims of the google. For example, all the persons are getting involved in the facebook and they are not at all bothering about the surrounding world, this may leading them away from the social life and sometimes it also creates problems in the families. The other example, everyone in this world is depending on google for each and everything and they are not at all referring to the books. However, most of the people say that improvements in technology like software solutions creates employment, but that is not true because the employment created by the software field is less than the employments which is decreased by the instruments in industries. In conclusion, the negative effects of the technology is higher than the advantages from the improvements in technology. Conclusion As a result of the increase in the various forms of technology, there are many positive and negative ecological impacts on the planet. Through the rise in modern technology and increase in globalization, there is a high increase in energy consumption. This in turn has devastating effects on the planet’s climate and air quality. However, without modern technology there would not be the capability to improve energy management systems or to develop environmentally friendly products such as bio-fuels. To make a progressive step towards reducing the amount of damage technology does to the environment, it is necessary to find ways to manage new technology responsibly so that it can continue to have positive ecological impacts. Analysis

Thursday, November 7, 2019

Differences in Accounting Treatments of Financial Statements between Germany, Japan, and the United States essays

Differences in Accounting Treatments of Financial Statements between Germany, Japan, and the United States essays More than forty years ago, Wilkinson (1964) used a story of an ancient blind farmer and his simplistic accounting method of using rocks to monitor the quantity of sheep he had and to ensure that the shepherd he had hired always returned with the same number at the end of the day. He noted that good accounting is not dependent on a particular language. For this reason, it was expected that someday accounting would be the same all over the world. The need for outside capital for expansion, for both underdeveloped and developed nations created a demand for understandable accounting that transcended borders. Potential foreign investors need understandable accounting to not only select the business they would like to invest in, but also to monitor how their investment is doing once it's made. Wilkinson (1964) noted that accounting standards in their current state of the mid-1960s that investors could not do this because of the different accounting rules in different countries. More prophetic, he believed that it would be a long time before financial statements would be meaningful across national boundaries. When comparing the differences in accounting treatments of financial statements between Germany, Japan and the United States, it becomes clear that Wilkinson was correct. Differences in Accounting Treatments of Financial Statements between Germany, Japan, and the United States: More than forty years ago, Wilkinson (1964) used a story of an ancient blind farmer and his simplistic accounting method of using rocks to monitor the quantity of sheep he had, to ensure that the shepherd he had hired always returned with the same number at the end of the day. He noted that good accounting is not dependent on a particular language. For this reason, it was expected that someday accounting would be the same all over the world. The need for outside capital for expansion, for both underdeveloped and developed nations created a ...

Tuesday, November 5, 2019

What Is Transcendentalism Understanding the Movement

What Is Transcendentalism Understanding the Movement SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips Confused about transcendentalism? You’re not alone! Transcendentalism is a movement that many people developed over a long period of time, and as a result, its complexity can make it hard to understand. That’s where we come in. Read this article to learn a simple but complete transcendentalism definition, key transcendentalist beliefs, an overview of the movement's history, key players, and examples of transcendentalist works. By the end, you’ll have all the information you need to write about or discuss the transcendentalist movement. What Is Transcendentalism? It’s all about spirituality. Transcendentalism is a philosophy that began in the mid-19th century and whose founding members included Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau. It centers around the belief that spirituality cannot be achieved through reason and rationalism, but instead through self-reflection and intuition. In other words, transcendentalists believe spirituality isn’t something you can explain; it’s something you feel. A transcendentalist would argue that going for a walk in a beautiful place would be a much more spiritual experience than reading a religious text. The transcendentalism movement arose as a resultof a reaction to Unitarianism as well as the Age of Reason. Both centered on reason as the main source of knowledge, but transcendentalists rejected that notion. Some of the transcendentalist beliefs are: Humans are inherently good Society and its institutions such as organized religion and politics are corrupting. Instead of being part of them, humans should strive to be independent and self-reliant Spirituality should come from the self, not organized religion Insight and experience are more important than logic Nature is beautiful, should be deeply appreciated, and shouldn’t be altered by humans Major Transcendentalist Values The transcendentalist movement encompassed many beliefs, but these all fit into their three main values of individualism, idealism, and the divinity of nature. Individualism Perhaps the most important transcendentalist value was the importance of the individual. They saw the individual as pure, and they believed that society and its institutions corrupted this purity. Transcendentalists highly valued the concept of thinking for oneself and believed people were best when they were independent and could think for themselves. Only then could individuals come together and form ideal communities. Idealism The focus on idealism comes from Romanticism, a slightly earlier movement. Instead of valuing logic and learned knowledge as many educated people at the time did, transcendentalists placed great importance on imagination, intuition and creativity. They saw the values of the Age of Reason as controlling and confining, and they wanted to bring back a more â€Å"ideal† and enjoyable way of living. Divinity of Nature Transcendentalists didn’t believe in organized religion, but they were very spiritual. Instead of believing in the divinity of religious figures, they saw nature as sacred and divine. They believed it was crucial for humans to have a close relationship with nature, the same way religious leaders preach about the importance of having a close relationship with God. Transcendentalists saw nature as perfect as it was; humans shouldn’t try to change or improve it. History of the Transcendentalist Movement What’s the history of transcendentalism? Here’s an overview of the movement, covering its beginning, height, and eventual decline. Origins While people had begun discussing ideas related to transcendentalism since the early 1800s, the movement itself has its origins in 1830s New England, specifically Massachusetts. Unitarianism was the major religion in the area, and it emphasized spirituality and enlightenment through logic, knowledge, and rationality. Young men studying Unitarianism who disagreed with these beliefs began to meet informally. Unitarianism was a particularly large part of life at Harvard University, where many of the first transcendentalists attended school. In September 1836, Ralph Waldo Emerson organized the first meeting of what would later be called the Transcendental Club. Together the group discussed frustrations of Unitarianism and their main beliefs, drawing on ideas from Romanticism, German philosophers, and the Hindu spiritual texts the Upanishads. The transcendentalists begin to publish writings on their beliefs, beginning with Emerson’s essay â€Å"Nature.† Height The Transcendental Club continued to meet regularly, drawing in new members, and key figures, particularly Emerson and Henry David Thoreau, published numerous essays to further spread transcendentalist beliefs. In 1840, the journal The Dial was created for transcendentalists to publish their works. Utopia communities, such as Brook Farm and Fruitlands attempted to make transcendentalism a complete lifestyle. Decline By the end of the 1840s, many key transcendentalists had begun to move onto other pursuits, and the movement declined. This decline was further hastened by the untimely death of Margaret Fuller, one of the leading transcendentalists and cofounder of The Dial. While there was a smaller second wave of transcendentalism during this time, the brief resurgence couldn’t bring back the popularity the movement had enjoyed the previous decade, and transcendentalism gradually faded from public discourse, although people still certainly share the movement’s beliefs. Even recently, movies such as The Dead Poets Society and The Lion King express transcendentalist beliefs such as the importance of independent thinking, self-reliance, and enjoying the moment. Key Figures in the Transcendentalist Movement At its height, many people supported the beliefs of transcendentalism, and numerous well-known names from the 19th century have been associated with the movement. Below are five key transcendentalists. Ralph Waldo Emerson Emerson is the key figure in transcendentalism. He brought together many of the original transcendentalists, and his writings form the foundation of many of the movement’s beliefs. The day before he published his essay â€Å"Nature† he invited a group of his friends to join the â€Å"Transcendental Club† a meeting of like-minded individuals to discuss their beliefs. He continued to host club meetings, write essays, and give speeches to promote transcendentalism. Some of his most important transcendentalist essays include â€Å"The Over-Soul,† â€Å"Self-Reliance,† â€Å"The American Scholar† and â€Å"Divinity School Address.† Henry David Thoreau The second-most important transcendentalist, Thoreau was a friend of Emerson’s who is best known for his book Walden. Walden is focused on the benefits of individualism, simple living and close contact with and observation of nature. Thoreau also frequently opposed the government and its actions, most notably in his essay â€Å"Civil Disobedience.† Margaret Fuller Margaret Fuller was perhaps the leading female transcendentalist. A well-known journalist and ardent supporter of women’s rights, she helped cofound The Dial, the key transcendentalist journal, with Emerson, which helped cement her place in the movement and spread the ideas of transcendentalism to a wider audience. An essay she wrote for the journal was later published as the book Woman in the Nineteenth Century, one of the earliest feminist works in the United States. She believed in the importance of the individual, but often felt that other transcendentalists, namely Emerson, focused too much on individualism at the expense of social reform. Amos Bronson Alcott A friend of Emerson’s, Alcott (father of Little Women’s Louisa May Alcott), was an educator known for his innovative ways of teaching and correcting students. He wrote numerous pieces on transcendentalism, but the quality of his writing was such that most were unpublishable. A noted abolitionist, he refused to pay his poll tax to protest President Tyler’s annexation of Texas as a slave territory. This incident inspired Thoreau to do a similar protest, which led to him writing the essay â€Å"Civil Disobedience.† Frederic Henry Hedge Frederic Henry Hedge met Emerson when both were students at Harvard Divinity School. Hedge was studying to become a Unitarian minister, and he had already spent several years studying music and literature in Germany. Emerson invited him to join the first meeting of the Transcendental Club (originally called Hedge’s Club, after him), and he attended meetings for several years. He wrote some of the earliest pieces later categorized as Transcendentalist works, but he later became somewhat alienated from the group and refused to write pieces for The Dial. George Ripley Like Hedge, Ripley was also a Unitarian minister and founding member of the Transcendental Club. He founded the Utopian community Brook Farm based on major Transcendentalist beliefs. Brook Farm residents would work the farm (whichever jobs they found most appealing) and use their leisure time to pursue activities they enjoyed, such as dancing, music, games, and reading. However, the farm was never able to do well financially, and the experiment ended after just a few years. Criticisms of Transcendentalism From its start, transcendentalism attracted numerous critics for its nontraditional, and sometimes outright alien, ideas. Many transcendentalists were seen as outcasts, and many journals refused to publish works written by them. Below are some of the most common criticisms. Spirituality Over Organized Religion For most people, the most shocking aspect of transcendentalism was that it promoted individual spirituality over churches and other aspects of organized religion. Religion was the cornerstone of many people’s lives at this time, and any movement that told them it was corrupting and to give it up would have been unfathomable to many. Over-Reliance on Independence Many people, even some transcendentalists like Margaret Fuller, felt that transcendentalism at times ignored the importance of community bonds and over-emphasized the need to rely on no one but one’s self, to the point of irresponsibility and destructiveness. Some people believe that Herman Melville’s book Moby Dick was written as a critique of complete reliance on independence. In the novel, the character Ahab eschews nearly all bonds of camaraderie and is focused solely on his goal of destroying the white whale. This eventually leads to his death. Margaret Fuller also felt that transcendentalism could be more supportive of community initiatives to better the lives of others, such as by advocating for women’s and children’s rights. Abstract Values Have a hard time understanding what transcendentalists really wanted? So did a lot of people, and it made them view the movement as nothing more than a bunch of dreamers who enjoyed criticizing traditional values but weren’t sure what they themselves wanted. Edgar Allen Poe accused the movement of promoting â€Å"obscurity for obscurity's sake.† Unrealistic Utopian Ideals Some people viewed the transcendentalists’ focus on enjoying life and maximizing their leisure time as hopelessly naive and idealistic. Criticism frequently focused on the Utopian communities some transcendentalists created to promote communal living and the balance of work and labor. Nathaniel Hawthorne, who stayed at the Brook Farm communal living experiment, disliked his experience so much that he wrote an entire novel, The Blithedale Romance, criticizing the concept and transcendentalist beliefs in general. Major Transcendentalist Works Many transcendentalists were prolific writers, and examples abound of transcendentalism quotes, essays, books, and more. Below are four examples of transcendentalist works, as well as which of the transcendentalist beliefs they support. â€Å"Self-Reliance† by Ralph Waldo Emerson Emerson wrote this essay in 1841 to share his views on the issue of, you guessed it, self-reliance. Throughout the essay he discusses the importance of individuality and how people must avoid the temptation to conform to society at the expense of their true selves. It also contains the excellent line â€Å"A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds, adored by little statesmen and philosophers and divines.† There are three main ways Emerson says people should practice self-reliance is through non-conformity (â€Å"A man must consider what a blindman's-bluff is this game of conformity†), solitude over society (â€Å"the great man is he who in the midst of the crowd keeps with perfect sweetness the independence of solitude†), and spirituality that is found in one’s own self (â€Å"The relations of the soul to the divine spirit are so pure, that it is profane to seek to interpose helps†). Self-reliance and an emphasis on the individual over community is a core belief of transcendentalism, and this essay was key in developing that view. Leaves of Grass by Walt Whitman Published in 1855, the first edition of Leaves of Grass included 12 untitled poems. Whitman was a fan of Emerson’s and was thrilled when the latter highly praised his work. The poems contain many transcendentalism beliefs, including an appreciation of nature, individualism, and spirituality. A key example is the poem later titled â€Å"Song of Myself† which begins with the line â€Å"I celebrate myself† and goes on to extoll the benefits of the individual â€Å"Welcome is every organ and attribute of me†, the enjoyment of nature (â€Å"The sniff of green leaves and dry leaves, and of the shore and dark colored sea-rocks, and of hay in the barn†), the goodness of humans (â€Å"You shall possess the good of the earth and sun†), and the connections all humans share (â€Å"For every atom belonging to me as good belongs to you†). â€Å"The Summer Rain† by Henry David Thoreau This transcendentalism poem, like many of Thoreau’s works, focuses on the beauty and simplicity of nature. Published in 1849, the poem describes the narrator’s delight at being in a meadow during a rainstorm. The poem frequently mentions the enjoyment that observing nature can bring, and there are many descriptions of the meadow such as, â€Å"A clover tuft is pillow for my head/And violets quite overtop my shoes.†But Thoreau also makes a point to show that he believes nature is more enjoyable and a better place to learn from than intellectual pursuits like reading and studying. He begins the poem with this verse: â€Å"My books I'd fain cast off, I cannot read/'Twixt every page my thoughts go stray at large/Down in the meadow, where is richer feed,/And will not mind to hit their proper targe† and continues later on with â€Å"Here while I lie beneath this walnut bough,/What care I for the Greeks or for Troy town,/If juster battles are enacted now/Between the ants upon this hummock’s crown?† He makes clear that he is comparing works of Shakespeare and Homer to the joys of nature, and he finds nature the better and more enjoyable way to learn. This is in line with Transcendentalist beliefs that insight and experience are more rewarding than book learning. â€Å"What Is Beauty?† by Lydia Maria Child Lydia Maria Child, a women’s rights activist and abolitionist, wrote this essay, which was published in The Dial in 1843. The essay discusses what constitutes beauty and how we can appreciate beauty. It frequently references the transcendentalist theme that intuition and insight are more important than knowledge for understanding when something is beautiful, such as in the line â€Å"Beauty is felt, not seen by the understanding.† All the knowledge in the world can’t explain why we see certain things as beautiful; we simply know that they are. Summary: Transcendentalism Definition What’s a good transcendentalism definition? Transcendentalism is a philosophical movement centered around spirituality that was popular in the mid-19th century. Key transcendentalism beliefs were that humans are inherently good but can be corrupted by society and institutions, insight and experience and more important than logic, spirituality should come from the self, not organized religion, and nature is beautiful and should be respected. The transcendentalist movement reached its height in the 1830s and 1840s and included many well-known people, most notably Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau. Transcendentalists wrote widely, and by reading their works you can get a better sense of the movement and its core beliefs. What's Next? Taking the AP Literature exam? Check out our ultimate guide to the AP English Literature testandour list of AP Literature practice tests. No matter what you're reading, it's important to understand literary devices. Here are 31 literary devices you should know. There's a lot of imagery in transcendentalism poems and other writings. Learn everything you need to know about imagery by reading our guide.

Sunday, November 3, 2019

Importance of Economic Growth in Achieving Environmental Coursework

Importance of Economic Growth in Achieving Environmental Sustainability - Coursework Example This paper offers a comprehensive review of the modern application of the concept of sustainable development in real-world economy. Also, examples of successful integration of environment and economic policy are provided. Still, it remains difficult to exactly point how much growth is required to bring about sustainable development. There are certain ways through which the economic policy can be integrated with the environment. One of the important decisions to integrate the environmental and economic policy is to impose environmental taxes. Such taxes shall be charged on any kind of destructions to the environment performed for economic reasons Another aspect, which the nations may look into, is allowing tradable permits. Trade permits are a means of establishing caps or promoting direct investment in environmentally beneficial outcomes towards achieving environmental goals. Through the exercise of tradable permits, investment can be procured into environmental projects. By encouraging technological development the pollution of the environment can be kept in a check. By using advanced equipment for production, the industry can keep a check on the pollution through active means of production. Direct environmental regulation is the most common step, which the nations use to keep pollution in control. Laws on environmental standards and a limit on the green house gases have been the major environmental control acts done by the nations It is important to note that the eco-efficiency has to be cost effective and should be limited. , and is designed by the way a society produces and consumes its products. Ways to Integrate Environment and Economic Policy: There are certain ways through which the economic policy can be integrated with the environment. One of the important decisions to integrate the environmental and economic policy is to impose Environmental Taxes. Such taxes shall be charged on any kind of destructions to the environment performed for economic reasons. These taxes shall be levied on the polluters and the users of such products, thereby not only increasing the revenue of the Government which in turn will improve the economy of the nations, it shall also act as a deterrent for people to pollute the environment as the products will be extremely expensive to produce and consume. This will also provide a counter productive effect by incentivizing the environmental innovators who in turn will have to bear fewer costs for producing their goods.5 Another aspect, which the nations may look into, is allo wing Tradable Permits. â€Å"Trade permits are a means of establishing caps or promoting direct investment in environmentally beneficial outcomes towards achieving environmental goals.†6 Through the exercise of tradable permits, investment can be procured into environmental projects. In this system the Government sets a maximum limit upto which pollution can be emitted into the environment. The companies, which emit a higher amount of pollutant, can trade the cap with the companies emitting lower amount of pollutant, and therefore the entire system is balanced and it is hinging on the maximum cap of emission of pollutants.7 Therefore, each and every company will try to lower its emission so as to

Thursday, October 31, 2019

Assignment Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 38

Assignment - Essay Example egal drinking age pushes teenager to drink in an uncontrolled, unsupervised environment and as a result, do so excessively, which is dangerous (Reid). This, he argues would be different if the drinking age would have been lowered to 18yrs. I tend to agree with Reid, especially on the fact that many Americans teenagers under 21 years are consuming alcohol, excessively, in uncontrolled, unsupervised environment; however, I also disagree with his assertion that lowering the drinking age will make teens drink responsibly and in excessively; these are habits that has nothing to do with legally set drinking age. Richard Keillin basically agrees with the assertion by Reid and argues further that teen/underage drinking is a major contributor to most problems faced by the youth since it is uncontrolled and as such teens fake ID’s, go to dangerous places and at times, deal with dangerous people in the quest of having access to alcohol. Basically Richard is entertaining the suggestion of lowering drinking since he alleges that many college and university heads wish to propose it, arguing that â€Å"lowering teen drinking may reduce the intensity of alcohol consumption in colleges†. In this regard, I concur with both Reid and Richard; most teenagers like doing that which is prohibited and thus lowering the drinking age might actually work towards lowering drinking among teenagers. This assertion is also advanced by the findings of a research by the National Institute of drug Abuse that found the high drinking age of 21 years a failure, since more than 70% of 12-13 years old 8th grad ers easily access drugs. However, Joseph Kolofano, on the other hand, totally disagrees with the idea of lowering drinking age to 18 years arguing that it would basically mean lowering to 16

Tuesday, October 29, 2019

Research proposal about adolosence Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Research proposal about adolosence - Essay Example According to Frame, Richard and Matthew (2009) if divorce occurs, it is likely to be one of the most stressful events in the lives of both parents and children and can be characterized as a significant period of transition, regardless of age. Aro and Palosaari (1992) state that divorce "will directly or indirectly touch nearly all American children" (p.14). Therefore, it is important to study how parental divorce may affect families and to investigate the consequences of marital dissolution for the children involved. Knox, Zusman and Decuzzi (2004) suggest that approximately 6 million divorced families exist in the United States and majority of them have children. According to Kreider and Fields approximately 26 percent children are currently living with just one parent in the United States (cited in Comerford, 2008). There are many studies in the literature investigating the short term and long term effects of divorce on children. The loss of a parent through divorce disrupts the fa mily life, the parent to parent relationship and the parent to child relationship in significant ways (David and Mark, 2009). The effects of parental divorce have been found to linger in the children of divorce, even as they develop into adults. This study will attempt to investigate the impact of parental divorce on the past and present sexual behavior of college aged children. A wide array of sexual behaviors will be examined. Specifically the age at which each behavior occurred will be examined to gain a more accurate picture of possible differences between those from intact and divorced families. Research suggests that daughters from divorced families are more likely to have intercourse at an earlier age and are likely to have more sexual partners (Hetherington and Kelly, 2002; Wallerstein and Lewis, 2004). This study will examine a much wider spectrum of sexual behaviors to investigate whether these results are supported. In addition, male sexual behavior will be examined in a comprehensive way, as this area has been neglected in previous research. Literature Review The Impact of Parental Divorce on Adolescence Although Forehand et al. (1991) suggested that the effects of divorce may be less detrimental to children and adolescents than was previously thought, much literature does indicate that children and adolescents who experience parental divorce function less well than those who do not, particularly in the area of social adjustment (Giuliani, Lafrate and Rosnati, 1998). When compared to adolescents from intact homes, adolescents in divorced families are two to three times more likely to behave in an antisocial and delinquent way, to associate with delinquent peers, to show poor school performance (Grimm and Wassil, 1994) and to drop out of school (Hetherington, 1993). These adolescents have been shown to have more problems in social relationships when compared to adolescents from intact families (Hetherington, Law and O'Connor, 1993). Such adolescents have also been shown to have lower levels of trust towards others (Giuliani, Lafrate and Rosnati, 1998), they receive less parental supervision, they receive fewer curfews and rules (Wallerstein and Lewis, 2004) and they often take more responsibility for themselves (Wallerstein and Lewis, 2004) than peers who come from intact families. Wallerstein and Lewis (2004) also reported that parents in divorced f

Sunday, October 27, 2019

Relationship Between Profitability and Liquidity

Relationship Between Profitability and Liquidity CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION This study empirically examines the relationship between profitability and liquidity, of insurance companies in Mauritius by using regression models and correlation analysis. The goal of any business is to make profits. If it does not make profit, it will soon go out of existence. Business need to ensure that it has enough money not only to cover expenses, but ensures that something is left over. Profitability of a company can be affected by many factors, among which there is liquidity. Every stakeholder has an interest in the liquidity position of his related company. Employees are also having interest in the liquidity of their company in order to know whether the company can meet its employees related obligations that are salary, pension, and provident fund. Shareholders are interested in understanding the liquidity due to its huge impact on the profitability. One can understand the liquidity position by analyzing the financial statements of a company. Liquidity position of a company can examined through financing decisions or investment decisions. 1.1 Definition of Liquidity Liquidity is defined as the ability of a company to meet its short term obligations. It is also the ability of the company to convert its assets into cash. It is more explicitly the ability of a company to meet the cash demands of its policy and contract holders with no or negligible loss (Claire et al., 2000). The assets and liabilities of a company reflect its liquidity profile. Since liquidity risk is inherent in the financial institutions, one must be able to understand measure, monitor and manage this risk (Douglas and Raghuram, 2001). Liquidity Risk According to Claire et al., (2000), liquidity is the ability to meet expected and unexpected demands for cash through ongoing cash flow or the sale of an asset at fair market value. Liquidity risk is the risk that, at a point in time, an entity will be in short of cash or liquid assets to attain its cash obligations (Darling, 1999). This may result in a run-on-the-company event, which is an example of loss due to this risk which causes the collapse of an institution. This type of event can occur during a depression whereby most customers ask to have their cash paid immediately and that demand exceeded cash reserves. Other less dramatic losses can occur when a company needs to borrow unexpectedly or sell assets at an unanticipated low price (Stewart and Raghuram, 1998) 1.2 Profitability Profitability is defined as the ability of a company to generate income which surpasses its liabilities. Profitability is measured by different ratios such as, Return on Equity (ROE), Price to Earnings Ratio (PER) and Return on Assets (ROA) amongst others. The measurement of profitability is essential to every company (Eljelly, 2004). Insurance regulators either encourage profitability, when concerned with solvency, or seek to limit it, when regulating rates. To investors and insurers, profitability plays an essential role. To policyholders of a stock insurer, it sounds like markup, while to those insured by a mutual company, it has no impact (McClenahan, 1999). Enz and Karl (2001), state that profitability is subject to consistent and accurate determination under a given set of conventions and accounting rules. Profits are important to investors and management as sources of dividends and growth. Profits provide better security against insolvency to insurers and regulators. 1.3 Background on Insurance Sectors in Mauritius The first two insurance companies (Phoenix Assurance Company and the Commercial Union) were set up in 1835 by the British. In 1845, the Mauritius Marine Insurance was formed by Mauritian shareholders. A second Mauritian company was set up called the Mauritius Fire Insurance company in 1854. From that time till date, new companies have emerged. Presently there are 16 insurance companies operating in Mauritius. All these companies are engaged in Life business, General business or both. INSURANCE COMPANY LINE OF OPERATION Anglo Mauritius Assurance Co Ltd Life Insurance Albatross Insurance Co Ltd Life General Insurance British American Insurance Co Ltd Life General Insurance Island Life Assurance Co Ltd Life Insurance Indian Ocean General Assurance Co Ltd Life General Insurance Jubilee Insurance Mauritius Ltd Life General Insurance Llyods Mauritius Co Ltd Life General Insurance La Prudence Mauricienne Assurance Ltd Life General Insurance Lamco International Insurance Ltd Life General Insurance Life Insurance Corporation of India Life Insurance Mauritian Eagle Co Ltd Life General Insurance Mauritius Union Assurance Co Ltd Life General Insurance New India Assurance Company ltd General Insurance Swan Insurance Co Ltd General Insurance State Insurance Company of Mauritius Ltd Life General Insurance Sun Insurance Company Ltd Life General Insurance Table 1.1: List of Insurance Companies and their respective lines of operation 1.3.1 Liquidity issues in Mauritius Each insurance company has their own structures and policies to manage all the risks in their operations including liquidity. In addition, they have to abide by the guidelines on liquidity provided by the Financial Services Commission and Section 23 of the Insurance Act 2005. Insurance companies have also to develop a contingency plan which should help them manage their liquidity on a global consolidated basis. Recent technological and financial innovations have provided insurance companies new means to finance their activities and to manage their liquidity (Vittas, 2003). The liquidity of insurance companies should usually be well planned since the frequency, timing and severity of insurance claims and benefits are quite uncertain (Levene, 2003). Insurance companies obtain their liquidity through (i) Underwriting: Underwriting is calculated as premium revenues subtract payments and operating expenditures; (ii) Investment Income: Investment income consists of dividends, realized capital gains on stocks and coupon payments and principal payments on bonds and (iii) Asset Liquidation: Assets liquidation is primarily concerned with stock sales and bonds on the financial markets (Holden and Ellis, 1993). 1.4 Problem Statement The eventual measure of efficiency of the liquidity planning and control is the effect it has on profitability. The companies preference of high return on assets to increase their profitability affects their liquidity positions. As a result, a study in the insurance sector in Mauritius is carried out to confirm this statement. 1.4.1 Research Objectives The research objectives of the study are as follows: i. To assess the impact of liquidity on profitability of Mauritian insurance companies ii. To determine the relationship between liquidity and profitability iii. To evaluate the impact and significance of the different liquidity ratios on profitability 1.4.2 Aim and Objectives of the Dissertation The aim of this dissertation is to investigate the relation between profitability and liquidity within the Mauritian context, in particular in the insurance sector. An econometric model would be used for this research study. The same model will be used to test the impact of liquidity on profitability of thirteen insurance companies, namely Anglo Mauritius Assurance Co Ltd, Albatross Insurance Co Ltd, British American Insurance Co Ltd, Island Life Assurance Co Ltd, Indian Ocean General Assurance Co Ltd, Jubilee Insurance Mauritius Ltd, Llyods Mauritius Co Ltd, Lamco International Insurance Ltd, Mauritian Eagle Co Ltd, Mauritius Union Assurance Co Ltd, Swan Insurance Co Ltd, State Insurance Company of Mauritius Ltd and Sun Insurance Company Ltd. 1.5 Outline of the Dissertation 1.5.1 Chapter 1: Introduction The introduction gives an overview on liquidity risk and explains why it is an important area for research, in particular in the insurance sector in Mauritius. It gives a clear and concise statement of the aim and objectives of this dissertation. 1.5.2 Chapter 2: Literature Review This chapter is wholly a review of existing literature on liquidity and any relevant articles related to liquidity issue have been considered. This will help to put the proposed research in a relevant context and ensure that up-to-date techniques are used for the analysis in this research study. 1.5.3 Chapter 3: Methodology This chapter describes the methods and estimation techniques used to compute estimates of the parameters in the econometric model and explain the equations being used. It also outlines the sources of data collection. Finally, the limitations of the study are outlined in this chapter. 1.5.4 Chapter 4: Results and Findings Chapter 4 presents the Analysis of data and findings. Tables, graphs and figures are usually used in this chapter to better illustrate graphically the results of this research study. The data was analysed using EViews 7 and the findings will be discussed. The latter will enable comparison that will either confirm or contradict expectations. 1.5.5 Chapter 5: Conclusions and Recommendations This final chapter presents the conclusions reached based on the findings of the previous chapter. Finally, some suggestions for further research in liquidity will also be presented.