Levi Strauss s Decisions Hurt The United States Economy

In 1922, Levi’s was harvesting all materials and making their jeans in the United States. However, with time, the demand for jeans rose and materials became more expensive. Levi’s made the decision to begin purchasing cotton from another country and use overseas labor. The decision helped reduce the cost of making their jeans as well as increases the scale of production. While the 2013 production route saves Levi’s money by outsourcing production, it hurts the job market in the United States. As a result of these decisions, hundreds of jobs have been taken away from citizens of this country. The loss of these jobs has far-reaching ramifications, not only are the people who lost their jobs unemployed, but they no longer have health insurance coverage for themselves or their families. Since this segment of the population is no longer working, they are unable to contribute to the local and national economy, which negatively impacts other businesses. Although Levi Strauss’s decisions hurt the United States economy, they help the economies of other countries like Brazil and Egypt. Now there is a higher demand in Brazil to grow cotton and make fabric. This means companies that harvest cotton in Brazil need to hire new employees to keep up with the increasing demand. People who have previously been unemployed now have jobs. Consequently, they are now able to provide food and shelter for their families as well as medical care. Similarly, the decision to outsource the production ofShow MoreRelatedSWOT analysis of Walmart5872 Words   |  24 PagesHeadquarters Bentonville, US Current CEO Mike Duke Revenue $ 466.950 billion (2012) Profit $ 15.699 billion (2012) Employees 2.2 million (2012) Main Competitors Costco Wholesale Corporation, Dollar General Corporation, Dollar Tree, Inc., Kohl s Corporation, Macy s Inc, Sears Holdings Corporation, Target Corporation Walmart is a US based multinational retail company that sells general merchandise and groceries. It is the world’s largest retailer, third biggest public company, largest private employerRead MoreBusiness Ethics and Global Economy10535 Words   |  43 Pages6433ch10.qxd_lb 10/19/06 10:43 AM Page 260 CHAPTER OBJECTIVES ââ€"† CHAPTER 10 Business Ethics in a Global Economy CHAPTER OUTLINE Ethical Perceptions and International Business Culture as a Factor in Business Adapting Ethical Systems to a Global Framework Global Values The Multinational Corporation Sexual and Racial Discrimination Human Rights Price Discrimination Bribery Harmful Products Pollution and the Natural Environment Telecommunications Issues Intellectual-Property Protection WorldRead MoreBusiness Ethics: Child Labor in Wal-Mart8552 Words   |  35 Pagescan arise from business environment and how employees, management and corporation deal with them such as fiduciary duty, insider trading, bribery, discrimination. In other word, ethic of business is about making the right, moral, ethical business decision. Society has subsequently demand for higher business standards and ethics. Corporations are expected to be morally responsible for a variety of issues such as environment, product and workplace safety instead of only just making profit for theirRead MoreBohlander/Snell-Managing Hr24425 Words   |  98 Pagesas Daimler-Benz and Chrysler a few years ago. Or they might highlight companies expanding into other markets, such as Starbucks in Asia or Wal-Mart in Mexico. Or the stories might focus on international companies gaining dominance here in the United States, such as Sony or Toyota. â€Å"No matter what kind business you run, no matter what size you are, you’re suddenly competing against companies you’ve never heard of all around the world that make a very similar widget or provide a very similar serviceRead MoreQuestions on Oligopoly19013 Words   |  77 Pagescompetitive firms are not. TYPE: M DIFFICULTY: 2 SECTION: 16.1 12. Typical firms in our economy are classified as a. perfectly competitive. b. imperfectly competitive. c. duopolists. d. oligopolists. ANSWER: b. imperfectly competitive. TYPE: M DIFFICULTY: 1 SECTION: 16.1 13. Given that there are approximately 12 companies currently selling cars in the United States, the car market is classified as a. perfectly competitive. b. monopolisticallyRead MoreInternational Management67196 Words   |  269 PagesCompanies, Inc., including, but not limited to, in any network or other electronic storage or transmission, or broadcast for distance learning. Some ancillaries, including electronic and print components, may not be available to customers outside the United States. This book is printed on recycled, acid-free paper containing 10% postconsumer waste. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 QDB/QDB 1 0 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 ISBN 978-0-07-811257-7 MHID 0-07-811257-5 Vice President Editor-in-Chief: Brent Gordon Vice President, EDP/CentralRead MoreThe Theoretical Framework of Distribution System and Distribution Channel Management8138 Words   |  33 Pagessatisfying consumer demand, greater specialisation in distribution is evident both in level of distribution and in goods and service handled (Mallen, 1996). Distribution excellence has become a powerful source of competitive differentiation. In the 1980’s and 1990à ¢â‚¬â„¢s at USA, companies began to view distribution channles as more than simply a source of cost savings and recognize it as a source of enhancing product or serve offerings as part of the broader supply chain process to create competitie advantage.Read MoreBrand Building Blocks96400 Words   |  386 PagesBRAND BUILDING BLOCKS Building Strong Brands: Why Is It Hard? It is not easy to build brands in today s environment. The brand builder who attempts to develop a strong brand is like a golfer playing on a course with heavy roughs, deep sand traps, sharp doglegs, and vast water barriers. It is difficult to score well in such conditions. Substantial pressures and barriers, both internal and external, can inhibit the brand builder. To be able to develop effective brand strategies, it is useful toRead MorePrinciples of Management: MCQ31501 Words   |  127 Pagesmoderate; p. 33) QUANTITATIVE APPROACH 19. The quantitative approach to management has also been labeled process research. (False; moderate; p. 34) 20. Linear programming is a technique that managers use to improve resource allocation decisions. (True; moderate; p. 35) TOWARD UNDERSTANDING ORGANIZATIONAL BEHAVIOR 21. Concern for employee productivity is most closely associated with the organizational behavior approach. (False; moderate; p. 36) 22. Barnard, Follett, MunsterbergRead MoreHuman Resources Management150900 Words   |  604 Pagesstrategies and ensure that human resource dimensions are considered. For instance, the HR manager for manufacturing has HR responsibilities for 600 employees. In that role she contributes to workflow, production, scheduling, and other manufacturing decisions. It also means that she is more accessible to and has more credibility with manufacturing workers, most of whom are hourly workers. Making the transition in HR management required going from seven to three levels of management, greatly expanding

Employment in the Information, Communication and...

Employment in the Information, Communication and Technology Sector Terms of Reference The purpose of this report is to fulfil the criteria laid out in the Communications and Work Experience Modules, G20001 and W200008 Introduction According to IBM, data created in the last two years account for 90% of the information available on networks and the internet. (IBM Research) As a consequence, it is not surprising that there is such high Information, Communications and Technology (ICT) skills demand. In May 2013, FIT Ireland (Fast Track to IT) conducted a skills audit in response to 4500 unfilled ICT job vacancies. FIT found that the predominant cause was an ICT skills shortage. Firstly, this report will describe the ICT sector and its range of†¦show more content†¦Due to the increase in popularity of mobile devices and tablets by consumers, the decline in the Personal Computer Market (Technology, 2013) is escalating, and consequentially, hardware and software development for the mobile market is on the increase as well as the development of Wi-Fi (Wireless Local Area Network) technology. The Main Occupations in the Current ICT Sector (Durrow Communications, 2013) Electronics Engineer (Skills Shortage) An Electronics Engineer Invent and design the hardware technology used in the ICT Sector, from control circuits to satellite digital telecommunications systems. Software Engineer (Skills Shortage) A Software Engineer uses code in the form of a computer language to develop and modify software applications, such as software for business and communications, and games software. Computer/IT Consultant (Skills Shortage) An IT Consultant would determine the client’s needs as well as advising them on the use of ICT as it pertains to their business. Computer Applications Programmer/Analyst (Skills Shortage) Like a Software Engineer, a Computer Programmer is a person who programmes software by writing code, but typically would need programming knowledge and a qualification of Level 6 or higher, rather than a degree. Database Administrator (Skills Shortage) A Database AdministratorShow MoreRelatedInformation And Communications Technologies : Ict1354 Words   |  6 PagesINFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNLOGY Introduction: - Information and Communications Technologies (ICT) education is basically our society’s efforts to teach its current and emerging citizens valuable knowledge and skills around computing and communications devices, software that operates them, applications that run on them and systems that are built with them.   Dimensions of ICT: - There are many important dimensions to ICT education, including: Analyze and apply appropriate academic standardsRead MoreA Report On The Tunisian Government1194 Words   |  5 PagesSolution at that time was a Readjustment Program which requires guidance of the economy for activities with high technology and intensive skills: ICTs. The Tunisian government has positioned these technologies in solid of its development plan. Information and communication technologies are considered as a tool enabling for economic diversification and for the creation of new activities in all sectors. Tunisia was among the first African countries which make ICTs a key element in its national strategy. TunisiaRead MoreImpact Of Globalisation On The Economic Development Of Pakistan1073 Words   |  5 Pagesthat involves the international operations of financial and investment markets as a result of improved communication mediums globally. It is the tendency of business enterprises and individuals to step outside their national and domestic markets to other markets around the globe to increase international trade and exchange of cultural values among different nations. Growth of Telecommunication sector is considered as one of the biggest positive sides of globalisation in Pakistan. However, increase inRead MoreAn Overview of the Job Market for Cambridge1103 Words   |  4 PagesFor those looking for employment in Cambridge in the near future, following is a brief analysis of the job market overview. †¢ The overall employment rate for individuals aged 16 – 64 is average at 78% and stable. †¢ Job density is high but falling. †¢ The level of self-employment is 10% which is low but stable. †¢ New business registrations per 10,000 adults is low (41%) and decreasing. †¢ A high percentage (6.4%) of 16 – 19 year olds are not involved in education, employment or training. †¢ 82%Read MoreShort Report on the Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Communications and Information Technology628 Words   |  3 PagesModule Title: Communications Assessment Technique: Short Report Title: Short Report on the Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Communications and Information Technology. Contents Short Report 1 Title: 1 Terms of Reference: 1 Method Procedure 1 Findings: 2 Advantages: 2 Disadvantages: 2 Conclusions 3 Recommendations: 3 Bibliography I Internet and Web based resources I Short Report Title: Short Report on the AdvantagesRead MoreModern World Relies On Technology1045 Words   |  5 Pagesrelies on technology. â€Å"In the modern eon, the information technology involves in every fields. Multiple tasks, from driving motor vehicle to diagnosing diseases are blessed due to the information technology.† (Lauren, 2013) It provides communication between businesses from any place in the world. The information technology field in the United States and in India has plentiful similarities and differences’ with regards to salary, popularity, and responsibilities. Generally, information technologyRead MoreTechnology s Effects On The Future Job Market1263 Words   |  6 Pagescitizens in their daily lives. A growing trend in the world has been the constant revelations in technology that has shaped the society we live in today. There have been many people who complain about the problems that plague the world and very few are willing to make a change in the world. Technology can be the solution or the problem for making the world a better place. Lots of individuals say that technology having a big role will hurt humans on having a steady income. Less people will have jobs andRead MoreRoles of Information Technology in Malaysia1402 Words   |  6 PagesTitle: Roles of Information Technology in Malaysia Objective: 1. The definition of Information Technology. 2. What are the types of Information Technology. 3. Principles of Information Technology. 4. Roles of Information Technology that are applied in various fields. 5. Advantages and disadvantages of Information technologies Introduction: Information Technology is a combination of computers and communication technologies. In a more common term, Information Technology is described as anyRead MoreThe Impact Of Technology On The Workplace1239 Words   |  5 PagesThe Impact of Technology in the Workplace Since the creation of modern computerization, several consequences have arisen for humankind, particularly in the work environment. Both skilled and unskilled laborers are gradually being forced out of work due to these technological innovations. This is especially true in industries that have been greatly affected by this phenomenon, such as the communication, transportation, information and manufacturing activity. Rather than creating jobs and increasingRead MoreThe Problem, Unemployment, And Social Issues938 Words   |  4 Pagestraditional sectors, on the contrary, third and newly-rising sectors would need more workers. The fact is those people who work in primary and traditional sectors have little adjustment in time while they transfer into third and newly-rising ones, and the upgrade of industrial structure continually urges the reinforcement of the quality of workers, which leads to the unemployment of low quality workers. In addition, owing to progress of technology, most o f people are required to master information technology

Dashboard Confessional - Swiss Army Romance free essay sample

Emois a broad title that covers many styles of emotionally charged punk rock. Ifever there were an Emo band, the one-man band Dashboard Confessional would winthe title. The Swiss Army Romance was written and performed byChristopher Ender Carrabba. This 26-year-old has a voice like no other and singsabout heartbreak, loneliness and personal trials that everyone can relateto. Carrabba wears his heart on his sleeve through an all acoustic Emosound. With songs such as Screaming Infidelities and The SharpHint of New Tears, he tells stories of pain and heartbreak throughfast-paced melodies and deep lyrics. A more mellow approach to expressingloneliness can be heard in the ballad Shirts and Gloves, whichdiscusses the hardships of long-distance relationships. The best song onthe CD is Age Six Racer, a beautifully written ballad about neverforgetting memories. Touching lyrics such as Hey, thanks, thanks for thatsummer. Its cold where youre going. I hope that your hearts always warm,matched with Carrabbas sweet voice and powerful acoustics, have a way of findinga route leading directly to your heart. We will write a custom essay sample on Dashboard Confessional Swiss Army Romance or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Jolie Lindholm, lead singer of TheRocking Horse Winner, sings angelic background harmony, adding a softer and morepassive quality to the song. I recommend The Swiss ArmyRomance by Dashboard Confessional to anyone who has ever has survived adifficult time. This album is filled with emotionally charged lyrics andharmonies that will be forever etched in your heart.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Essays (2915 words) -

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Obsessive Compulsive Disorder- pg. 1 Introduction and Thesis Introduction When I was young, I used to constantly hum one solitary note every few seconds or minutes throughout the day. I also used to glide the tips of my fingers right behind my ear just so I could be assured that my hair was in place. It was almost impossible to avoid. I was continually asked the question, why do you do that, from my classmates and friends. It was sometimes embarrassing. Then one day, my habit disappeared. Today, my cousin R.J. coughs for no reason every minute. My friend Brian V. constantly picks his rear end, only when driving, thinking hes playing it off. Im always told that I pray more than once before eating my meal. My response is, I did? There are many people who have odd or common habits. But there are those who are endlessly encircled by rituals and anxious thoughts called obsessive-compulsive disorder. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (or OCD) is characterized by anxious thoughts or rituals you feel you cannot control. If you have OCD, as it is called, you may be plagued by persistent, unwelcome thoughts or images, or by the urgent need to engage in certain rituals. You may be obsessed with germs or dirt, so you wash your hands over and over. You may be filled with doubt and feel the need to check things repeatedly. You might be preoccupied by thoughts of violence and fear that you will harm people close to you. You may spend long periods of time touching things or counting. You may be preoccupied by order or symmetry. You may have persistent thoughts of performing sexual acts that are repugnant to you. Or you may be troubled by thoughts that are against your religious beliefs. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder- pg. 2 The disturbing thoughts or images are called obsessions, and the rituals that are performed to try to prevent or dispel them are called compulsions. There is no pleasure in carrying out the rituals you are drawn to, only temporary relief from the discomfort caused by the obsession. Thesis Obsessive-compulsive disorder is an anxiety problem in which people are in severe emotional pain or they are unable to function because of obsessions and compulsions. Richard, a married man with three children has this disorder. In this essay, I will determine the cause of his ordeal and the treatment needed to be utilized based on the numerous information collected from various resources. Symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Signs and symptoms frequently associated with obsessive compulsive tendencies or obsessive compulsive disorder can have a variety of symptoms. Symptoms Obsessions These are unwanted ideas or impulses that repeatedly well up in the mind of the person with OCD. Persistent fears that harm may come to self or a loved one, an unreasonable concern with becoming contaminated, or an excessive need to do things correctly or perfectly, are common. Again and again, the individual experiences a disturbing thought, such as, My hands may be contaminated -- I must wash them; I may have left the gas on; or I am going to injure Obsessive Compulsive Disorder- pg. 3 my child. These thoughts are intrusive, unpleasant, and produce a high degree of anxiety. Sometimes the obsessions are of a violent or a sexual nature, or concern illness. Compulsions The most common of these are washing and checking. Other compulsive behaviors include counting (often while performing another compulsive action such as hand washing), repeating, hoarding, and endlessly rearranging objects in an effort to keep them in precise alignment with each other. Mental problems, such as mentally repeating phrases, listmaking or checking are also common. These behaviors generally are intended to ward off harm to the person with OCD or others. Some people with OCD have regimented rituals while others have rituals that are complex and changing. Performing rituals may give the person with OCD some relief from anxiety, but it is only temporary. Insight People with OCD show a range of insight into the senselessness of their obsessions. Often, especially when they are not actually having an obsession, they can recognize that their obsessions and compulsions are unrealistic. At other times they may be unsure about their fears or even believe strongly in their validity. Resistance Most people with OCD struggle to banish their

New future Essays

New future Essays New future Paper New future Paper Safie had been taught by her mother to aspire to higher powers of intellect and an independence of spirit. (CH14-p124) In a similar way the Monster also has ideas of improving his education when he discovers three books in the woods, (CH15, p127 ) these possessions of these treasures gave me extreme delight, I now continuously studied and exercised my mind upon these histories. One of the books is the story of paradise lost. Victor resembles Satan from Miltons Paradise Lost, in which Satan is an archangel punished for his vanity, arrogance, and thirst for forbidden knowledge. Like him, Victor attempts to take over Gods role as creator. Mary Shelley is perhaps suggesting that Victor should be punished for his acts as she doesnt show Victor in a positive light. It raises questions about what is natural and unnatural and highlights the struggle between science and God. It ultimately asks What is human nature? Is it human nature to question God and go against him, as Adam and Eve also did? The monster that Victor creates identifies both with Satan and with Adam. The Monster was not born evil or with the intent to do harm and violence to others, but throughout the novel his emotions overtook his mind, and he committed diabolical acts against others. He compares himself to Adam when he says: Like Adam I was apparently united by no link to any other being in existence (CH15p129) He goes on to say: Many times I considered Satan as the fitter emblem of my condition, for often like him when I viewed the bliss of my protectors the bitter gall of envy rose within me (CH15 P129-130) This shows his passionate hatred of man against him. He has been reduced to a low level, despite the fact that he has done nothing wrong. May Shelley makes the reader feel pity for the creature and makes you question your judgement on what is a monster. The Monster secretly watches closely and is educated in history, politics and religion at the same time as Safie is tutored. The monster says, My days are spent in close attention that I might speedily master the language, while I improved in speech I also learnt the science of letters as it was taught to the stranger and this opened before me a wide field for wonder and delight (CH13-p18) . The words close attention shows that he craves knowledge and the words delight is deliberately put in by Shelley to show the parallel between the monster and Victor within their thirst for knowledge and attitude to education. The effect of this is the beneficial information that allows the reader to be able judge the characters and actions that follow. To conclude, this book has many meanings and messages- I think some of the most important are: always have an open mind, things are never how they seem, be kind as everything has on a knock on effect/ what comes around goes around ECT. Despite the books age it still holds the same morals as they both applied back in the Victorian ages. When the revolution of the steam engine and the beginning of Modern day science was rapidly progressing, people were sceptical to these new ideas and most of them were beginning to question the old ways and were looking forward to a new future

Interaction and Communication between parents and babies thr essays

Interaction and Communication between parents and babies thr essays Touch has long been researched but we yet need to know more about it since its effects are of such magnitude. Touch is the most essential communication channel for babies because they sense, understand and experience it more than any other stimulation. Babies need to be touched because it affects their mind and bodies development, health and strengthens their bond with parents resulting in happier family life and facilitated development later in life. The benefits of this interaction are short term and long term if touch is properly administered at this early age. Physiological changes, action readiness, valenced emotions, discrete emotions, and most essential of all, love walong with safety and security, are communicated to babies when they are touched. All parents should take time to learn about touch and use this knowledge to improve their childrens quality of life. Infant massage, the practice of massaging particular areas of a babys body with gentleness and love is well established and taught by many institutions devoted to teaching parents necessary skills for child rearing. The key to successful infant massage is to remember that is it meant to be a pleasure for both parent and child. The setting should be comfortable for both parties. A warm room, pillows, blankets, hand cream to keep the parents hands soft and lots of love are important when preparing (Make Way For Baby!â„ ¢ 1999-2001). Its recommended to perform the massage at least half an hour after the baby has eaten at when he/she is calm as well as the parent (Make Way For Baby!â„ ¢ 1999-2001). The massage itself flows from head to toes with minor pressure. The pressure used should be about the same as the pressure one can put on closed eyelids without irritating the eyes (Make Way For Baby!â„ ¢ 1999-2001). Parents are encouraged to look right into the babys eyes as much as possible and allow themselves to talk freely to t...

Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 211

Assignment Example The National Treatment Obligation (NTO) largely fights against this and according to the GATT agreement, article III paragraph 4; equal treatment should be given to all goods. This has been violated by Pell therefore Electro Co. can sue Pell in a court of law. Imposition of quota by Lamar on imported phones of 5,000 also goes against article IX, paragraph 1, of the GATT agreement that there should be no imposition of quotas on imports and exports of trading partners. Principle of Most Favored Nation (MFN), article I, paragraph 1, of the GATT agreement, the preference to goods from New Aldoina should be granted to all parties to a contract. The 20% tariff on goods from countries suspected to accommodate terrorists violates UN Charter, Chapter IX and also goes against non-discrimination principle under WTO/GATT. This can also be used by Electro Co. against Lamar. Several imposed legislations by these states go against the contractual agreements with the U.S government. This will make it easier for your company to persuade the government to enforce dropping of these legislations for the better trading activities of your

Compare and Contrast Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Compare and Contrast - Essay Example Children in a stable home environment are more likely to perform well academically than students in an unstable home environment. Homes classified as stable generally have both parents living with the child. There is generally a support system in place and the child is reassured that he matters. Within the stable home, the family dines together maybe not for every meal but with some amount of consistency. Time is set aside for checking homework and parent-teacher meetings are attended regularly. This kind of environment cultivates confidence by reassuring the child that the parents do care and want what is best for him. This stability makes it easier for the child to face challenges when they arise and therefore makes him more focused on school. â€Å"When adolescents perceive their families as self sufficient, having freedom to make their own decisions then academic performances increases.† (Mohanraj and Latha 22) This in turn ensures better grades. Unlike the child in the st able home, the child in an unstable home environment on the other hand is faced with an environment characterized by tension and discomfort. In some cases a parent may be absent and the child is often left on his own. Data suggests that children in single parent households (especially where this was not the case before) may have a hard time coping and functioning (Berk 346).

Marketing Objectives Essay Example for Free

Marketing Objectives Essay Executive Summary Ceylon Tea came into being nearly a century and half back when the then existing coffee plantations, struck by a deadly disease – which virtually proved the death knell of coffee in Ceylon as it was then called, were converted to tea plantations. Nearly all the coffee plantations were very soon converted to tea plantations. As Ceylon Tea made its mark in the world and was being widely traded in the markets, measures were instituted to facilitate and monitor the process of manufacture and sale of tea to be shipped to foreign countries. On 30th July 1883 the first public sale of tea took place. The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce brought under its purview the conduct of these auctions. In 1894 the Ceylon Tea Traders Association was established. Today almost all tea produced in Sri Lanka is sold in auctions conducted by these two organizations. Introduction This assignment is mainly about a FMCG product which the organisation depends only on Tea. I have sectioned this assignment in to different sections, to make the reader easy and understandable. I have also given a brief idea about marketing orientation, key steps to follow to be marketing oriented and also difficulties of implementing marketing orientation. Then I have spoke about the marketing environment with micro and macro environment and also how these environments impact to the organisation. At last I worked with marketing mix and how the marketing mix elements are blended together in an organisation. I hope this assignment will be something different and interesting task for you. Thank you. Methodology Mainly concentrated on preliminary data questionnaire and the study also contains secondary data from www.zaidtea.com Got reference from articles and books are revealed by tables and diagrams. Also discussed and got ideas from people who are in the high position in the tea industry. Body of Assignment Task 1 1. Zaid Tea Company 1.1 About Zaid Tea The Company incorporated in 2008 was formed in the year 1998 by a person with multifaceted experience gained in the tea industry and inherited from his forefathers of two previous generations. Naushad Jamaluddin the Managing Director/CEO of ZAID TEA CO. (PVT) LTD and a scion of an icon in the tea industry was nurtured in it from an early age during the tenure of his school days whilst assisting his father and grandfather in their tea business and plantations. He was trained in the delicate art of tea tasting by some of the best experts in the industry. He has blossomed to be an expert, having an exquisite flair in tasting and blending teas to meet the most exacting requirements of his buyers. Zaid Tea with its well experienced, diligently trained resource personal and cutting edge knowhow is eminently suited to seamlessly source and deliver the most exacting tea blends to its diverse worldwide clientele. Selecting for them the choicest of teas produced in factories located in the tea plantations of the central highlands of Sri Lanka and sold at the Colombo Tea Auctions, each having their distinct and subtly varying aroma, flavor and liquor Zaid Tea Co (Pvt.) Ltd is incorporated as a limited liability company under the Companies Act of Sri Lanka. It is registered as an exporter of Ceylon Tea with the Sri Lanka Tea Board – the regulatory body of the Government of Sri Lanka entrusted with the task of ensuring the maintenance of the quality and image of Ceylon Tea exported from the country The Co. is also registered with the Sri Lanka Export Development Board as an exporter of Ceylon Tea. This is another regulatory body of the Government of Sri Lanka promoting exports in general from the country 1.2 Products and Main Brands Zaid Tea Company has their own brand – the â€Å"Maskeliya Kahata† range of black teas comes in aluminum pouches and tea bags with their distinct aroma, flavor and liquor. The teas come from plants grown in the cool crispy air of the mountain ranges of the Hatton – Maskeliya tea plantations famed for its teas with its distinctly fine aroma and flavor Further they have their own brand of blended teas and green teas Black Tea a) Maskeliya Kahata in aluminum pouches b) Maskeliya Kahata in tea bags a) Kingswood Tea in loose packaging b) Kingswood Tea in tea bags flavored and unflavored Green Tea a) Kingswood Green Tea in loose packaging * Kingswood Green Tea in tea bags flavored and unflavored 1.3 Services a) BLACK TEA Bulk Teas – They source and deliver unblended or specified blends worldwide packed in paper sacks, plywood chests and corrugated cartons with inner lining of either aluminium foil or suitable polythene to retain the freshness and aroma Branded Teas – They also source as per customer specifications and blend, package in printed cartons or other packaging as per their own brands and deliver worldwide Flavored Teas – Here too we can supply either in bulk or as per customers branded or un branded packaging – cinnamon, vanilla, ginger etc b) GREEN TEA Zaid Tea are in a position to supply you Green Tea plucked and processed from the finest tea gardens located in of the high mountainous terrain found in the central highlands of Sri Lanka where the air is fresh, pure, cool and crispy. It is manufactured to the highest international standards. Like black tea we can supply in bulk or customized brand, packaging and flavoring – unflavored, jasmine, mint etc Task 02 1. What Is Marketing Orientation A business which begins work on, or philosophy that focuses on identifying and meeting customer’s needs and wants satisfyingly. -Himaz Ahamed 2. Key steps that Zaid Tea should implement in order to be marketing oriented 2.1 Customer Focused An organizational orientation toward satisfying the needs of potential and actual customers. Customer focus is considered to be one of the keys to business success. Achieving customer focus involves ensuring that the whole organization, and not just frontline service staff, puts its customers first. All activities, from the planning of a new product to its production, marketing, and after-sales care, should be built around the customer. Every department and every employee should share the same customer-focused vision. This can be aided by practicing good customer relationship management and maintaining a customer relations program. In order to achieve this, the organization must: a) Define its market, effectively segment and target the right customer and listen to customers. b) An extensive programme of employee education and communication may be necessary to introduce customer focus in order to create the environment that encourages to think customers. c) Implement an effective marketing information system that will track customer needs on a continuous basis. 2.2 Competitor Focused In terms of competitors, in marketing and strategic management is an assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of current and potential competitors. This analysis provides both an offensive and defensive strategic context to identify opportunities and threats. Profiling coalesces all of the relevant sources of competitor analysis into one framework in the support of efficient and effective strategy formulation, implementation, monitoring and adjustment. Competitor focused concept is more preferable in markets which are growing very fast. Tea also one of the fastest growing market in Sri Lanka. So Zaid Tea also can invest in gathering more data about competitors which will enable them to develop innovations at lower costs. 2.3 Strategic Vision Develop a long-term, market-oriented strategic vision by viewing marketing as more than a series of promotional tools and techniques. Strong leadership from the top with high level executives building a customer philosophy into their business plans and define the future in terms of creating long-term value for stakeholders. Figure-01 Market vs Operations oriented structure 3. Difficulties in Implementing Marketing Orientation Concept to Zaid Tea Even though Zaid Tea might feels that the marketing orientation is the only correct path to be successful, in practice there are likely to be barriers in developing such an orientation. They are as follows: 3.1 Lack of Effective Customer Service The job of the customer-service staff involves more than just answering questions and providing solutions to problems that arise. For market orientation to prove successful, it must also include customer-service representatives who take the time to get to know each customers needs and preferences. Zaid Tea Company also can gather records of the feedback it receives and analyze them for use in developing market-orientation plans. Without such customer-service efforts, company loses key opportunities to obtain information. 3.2 Lack of Marketing Knowledge Lack of marketing knowledge, skill and experience are among the challenges of developing market-orientation plans. Many company employees understand basic marketing concepts, but lack the in-depth knowledge needed to develop marketing-orientation strategies that work. Some companies deal with this by seeking additional education for key employees or by hiring experienced, skilled marketers. Skilled marketers can help develop solid plans and give direction to key employees and departments. For example, an experienced marketer might help customer service, sales and technical-support departments learn how to incorporate a companys overall market orientation plan. 3.3 Conflict between marketing and other functions The power struggle between different departments within an organization can hinder the process. Task 03 1. Marketing Environment Framework A company’s marketing environment consists of the actors and forces outside marketing that affect marketing management’s ability to build and maintain successful relationships with target customers. (Philip Kotler – 12th Edition) Figure-02 the marketing environment 2. Micro Environment 2.1 Definition Factors or elements in an organizations immediate area of operations that affect its performance and decision-making freedom. These factors include competitors, customers, distribution channels, suppliers, and the general public. Micro Environment| Description| Factors that impact to Zaid Tea| Suppliers| A party that supplies goods or services. A supplier may be distinguished from a contractor or subcontractor, who commonly adds specialized input to deliverables. | A suppliers behavior will directly impact the business it supplies. If a supplier provides a poor service Zaid Tea this could increase timescales or product quality. An increase in raw material prices will affect an organization’s Marketing Mix strategy and may even force price increases. Close supplier relationships are an effective way to remain competitive and secure quality products. | Intermediaries| Firm or person (such as a broker or consultant) who acts as a mediator on a link between parties to a business deal, investment decision, negotiation, etc. Intermediaries usually specialize in specific areas, and serve as a conduit for market and other types of information. Also called a middleman. | Zaid Tea must partner effectively with marketing intermediaries to optimize the performance of the total system.| Competition| The marketing concept states that to be successful, an organization must provide greater customer value and satisfaction than its competitors.| Competi tor analysis and monitoring is crucial if an organisation is to maintain or improve its position within the market. If a business is unaware of its competitors activities they will find it very difficult to â€Å"beat† their competitors. The market can move very quickly. As a business it is important to examine competitors responses to these changes so that you can maximise the impact of your response.| Customers| A person, company, or other entity which buys goods and services produced by another person, company, or other entity.| Zaid Tea Companys marketing plan should aim to attract and retain customers through products that meets their wants and needs and excellent customer service.| Publics| A public is any group that has an actual or potential impact on an organization’s ability to achieve its objectives. | According to Zaid Tea there are number of publics that will impact. They are:Financial Public, Local Public, Media Public, Government Public, General PublicZa id Tea should keep a good relationship with these publics in order to run successful business. | 3. Macro Environment 3.1 Definition The major external and uncontrollable factors that influence an organizations decision making, and affect its performance and strategies. These factors include the economic factors; demographics; legal, political, and social conditions; technological changes; and natural forces. Macro environment is also known as uncontrollable environment. Figure-03 Macro environment forces The main forces in the macro environment are commonly denoted by the mnemonic PESTEEL forces. a) Political Environment b) Economical Environment c) Social and cultural Environment d) Technological Environment e) Ecological Environment f) Ethical Environment g) Legal Environment 3.2 Political Environment The first element of a PESTEEl analysis is a study of political factors. Political factors influence Zaid Tea Company in many ways. Political factors can create advantages and opportunities for Zaid Tea. Conversely they can place obligations and duties on company. Political factors include the following types of instrument: Legislation such as the minimum wage or anti discrimination laws. Voluntary codes and practices Market regulations Trade agreements, tariffs or restrictions Tax levies and tax breaks Type of government regime Non conformance with legislative obligations can lead to sanctions such as fines, adverse publicity and imprisonment. Ineffective voluntary codes and practices will often lead to governments introducing legislation to regulate the activities covered by the codes and practices. 3.3 Economical Environment The second element of a PESTEEl analysis involves a study of economic factors. Zaid Tea Company also affected by national and global economic factors. National and global interest rate and fiscal policy will be set around economic conditions. The climate of the economy dictates how consumers, suppliers and other organisational stakeholders such as suppliers and creditors behave within society. An economy undergoing recession will have high unemployment, low spending power and low stakeholder confidence. Conversely a â€Å"booming† or growing economy will have low unemployment, high spending power and high stakeholder confidence. A successful organisation will respond to economic conditions and stakeholder behaviour. Furthermore Zaid Tea will need to review the impact economic conditions are having on their competitors and respond accordingly. Task 04 1. Traditional Marketing Mix 1.1 What Is Marketing Mix Marketing mix is the set of controllable tactical marketing tool that firm blends to produce the response it wants in the target market. The marketing mix consists of everything the firm can do to influence the demand for its product. Thus in performing their key tasks marketing managers have at their disposal marketing programs to create customer satisfaction and ultimately profit for the organisation. These tools are often referred as the â€Å"4P s† on how to use these ingredients require marketing research and information. Marketing mix variables are as follow: Figure-04 Traditional Marketing Mix 2. How The Marketing Mix Elements Are Blended Together In Zaid Tea Company Sri Lanka is one of the oldest tea producing countries in the world commercial Production was started in 1867 by the British planter James Taylor in Loolecondera Estate in Kandy. The tea produced in this country, popularly known as â€Å"Ceylon Tea†, ranks among the best available teas in international trade. In 2007, Sri Lanka was the third-largest tea-producing country globally, with a 9% share of global production, producing 30.6 million kilograms of tea. The total extent of land under tea cultivation has been estimated at approximately 187,309 hectares. Sri Lanka produces tea throughout the year, and the growing areas are mainly concentrated in the central highlands and southern inland areas of the island. They are broadly grouped under these headings according to their elevations, with high growns ranging from 1200 m upwards, medium growns covering between 600 m to 1200 m. and low growns from sea level up to 600 m. High grown teas from Sri Lanka are renowned for their taste and aroma. The two types of seasonal tea produced in these areas, Dimbula and Nuwara Eliya, are much sought-after by blenders in teaimporting countries. Uva teas from the Eastern Highlands contain unique seasonal characteristics and are widely used in many quality blends, particularly in Germany and Japan. The medium grown teas provide a thick colour variety which is popular in Australia, Europe, Japan and North America. The teas produced in low grown areas are mainly popular in Western Asia, Middle Eastern countries and CIS countries. Most factories in these areas produce what is known as a leafy grade of tea, the tea leaves of which are highly twisted and can grade into long particles. 2.1 Product Tea is produced from the Camellia Sinensis plant. The tea plant, which is evergreen, isn’t a shrub as popularly believed but a tree that is grown like a shrub to facilitate the process of tea plucking and production. It is native to Southeast Asia and is grown in a wide range of climatic conditions across the world. Tea is mainly produced in India (the world’s largest producer), Sri Lanka (till recently the world’s largest exporter), China, Kenya, Vietnam, Indonesia and Malaysia. The differing climatic conditions in the world’s various tea growing areas influence the quality and taste of the various teas. Zaid Tea Company has their own brand – the â€Å"Maskeliya Kahata† range of black teas comes in aluminium pouches and tea bags with their distinct aroma, flavor and liquor. The teas come from plants grown in the cool crispy air of the mountain ranges of the Hatton – Maskeliya tea plantations famed for its teas with its distinctly fine aroma and flavor Further they have their own brand of blended teas and green teas Black Tea c) Maskeliya Kahata in aluminium pouches d) Maskeliya Kahata in tea bags c) Kingswood Tea in loose packaging d) Kingswood Tea in tea bags flavored and unflavored Green Tea b) Kingswood Green Tea in loose packaging * Kingswood Green Tea in tea bags flavored and unflavored 2.2 Price Table 02- Price List Effective from 1st January 2013 of Maskeliya Kahata ZAID TEA CO (PVT) LTD| Price List Effective from 1st January 2013| Product| MRP| WSP| QDP| Maskeliya Kahata 20g| 20.00 | 18.00 | 17.10 | Maskeliya Kahata 50g| 42.00 | 36.96 | 35.11 | Maskeliya Kahata 100g| 84.00 | 73.92 | 70.22 | Maskeliya Kahata 250g| 195.00 | 171.60 | 163.02 | Maskeliya Kahata 500g| 385.00 | 338.80 | 321.86 | Maskeliya Kahata 1Kg| 755.00 | 615.00 | 584.25 | Maskeliya Kahata 2Kg| 1,495.00 | 1,215.00 | 1,154.25 | Maskeliya Kahata100 Tea Bags| 250.00 | 220.00 | 209.00 | | | | | | | | | | MRP Maximum (Marked) Retail Price| | WSP Wholesale Price Price to Retail Trader| | QDP Quantity Discounted Price| | The above table shows the effective price list of Maskeliya Kahata from 1st January 2013. 2.3 Place The role of this element basically describing availability, which is â€Å"right place† and the â€Å"right time†. Zaid’s Maskeliya Kahata is also available in every retailer shops. A channel of place is a set of interdependent organisation, which helps to make a product available in market for use of consumer. Zaid Tea also uses this concept of channels in order to provide Maskeliya Kahata available in the market. The below diagram denotes how Zaid Tea uses the distribution channels. Figure-05 Distribution channels of Zaid Tea * Note- There is also another Distribution channel method: PRODUCER AGENT WHOLESALER RETAILER CONSUMER Conclusion In a fast growing market day by day everything is fluctuating faster than we expect. Products and services are also same. The purpose of the project is to exhibit organisation to be marketing oriented and to aware about the marketing environment with micro and macro environment , how these environments impact to the organisation. Recommendations Plantation companies a) Explore the possibilities of upgrading plantation jobs, by providing upward movement, to attract more workers to work in the estate. b) There should not be any effort from the plantation companies to dilute the existing labour laws which protect the workers in the tea industry, on the grounds of declining returns. c) The big companies could also tie up with the ILO and other civil society organisations to help small growers achieve minimum labour and environmental standards. Adherence to such standards will give an additional product value to the tea being sold at the retail level. In return, the companies could provide incentives in terms of better prices to the small growers. These practices could work to the advantage of both. The government a) Provide technical and marketing assistance to the small and marginalized Farmers b) Provide credit schemes and debt management services to the plantations c) Strengthen the relationships between small tea growers and private processing factories. Develop a strategic intervention in order to help each actor aware of their rights and responsibilities within the value chain. International tea buyers a) Take responsibility for conditions in their entire tea value chains, particularly where they have more influence. b) Provide support to the small tea growers through technical and marketing assistance c) Pay a higher price for tea produced in a sustainable process d) Do not lobby to dilute the social protections available to tea estate workers e) Conduct multi-stakeholder monitoring and verification of the social and environmental standards on the tea estates from which tea is procured Annexure References * PCM Text Book * Kotler P. â€Å"Marketing Management† 9th Edition, Prentice hall of India, 1997, pp 128-150 * www.zaidtea.com

Romanticism Essays -- Romantic Period Essays

Romanticism "In spite of its representation of potentially diabolical and satanic powers, its historical and geographic location and its satire on extreme Calvinism, James Hogg's Private Memoirs and Confessions of a Justified Sinner proves to be a novel that a dramatises a crisis of identity, a theme which is very much a Romantic concern." Discuss. Examination of Romantic texts provides us with only a limited and much debated degree of commonality. However despite the disparity of Romanticism (or Romanticisms) as a movement it would be true to say that a prevalent aspect of Romantic literature that unites many different forms of the movement, is a concern with the divided self. As the empirical Rationalism of the eighteenth century was partially subverted by the subjective metaphysical reflection in the nineteenth artists tended to examine wider issues from an introspective starting point. The idea of the divided self became a motif from Blake's "Albion" to Byron's Manfred to Keat's musings on the disassociated nature of the Poetic Self. Some writers personified this division in distinct physical manifestations, usually a hero and his inverse doppelganger. Most famously in Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, the various "selves" in De Quincey's Confessions of an English Opium Eater and in the complex mirroring of major characters in James Hogg's ambiguous masterpiece Private Memoirs and Confessions of a Justified Sinner. Although critics (as Andrea Henderson in Romantic Identities) have debated the extent that Romanticism dramatises divisive crises with the psychological self , the vast majority of writing on the subject agrees that "crisis of identity" is certainly a "Romantic concern". Hugo Donelley draws attention to the "Modernis... ... Doubleness of Hogg's Confessions and the Tradition", Studies in Scottish Literature, Vol. 18, pp. 59-74. Punter, D. "The dialectic of persecution" in The Literature of Terror Volume I, 1996, Longman Group (David Punter), London and New York. Simpson, L. James Hogg, a Critical Study, 1962, Oliver and Boyd, Edinburgh. Wittig, Kurt. The Scottish Tradition in Literature, 1958, Oliver and Boyd, Edinburgh. Wu, Duncan. "Introduction" in Romanticism: An Anthology WEBSITES. http://prometheus.cc.emory.edu/panels/4C/R.Incorvati.html Incorvati, R. "Dialogue and Marginality in James Hogg's Confessions of a Justified Sinner." Prometheus Unplugged Website. --------------------------------------------------------------------- [1] Although Hogg was writing in a pre-Freudian era the essentials of his psychodynamic theory were as pertinent in 1834 as they were in 1934.

Woodrow Wilson

Woodrow Wilson was a politician, scholar, activist, and an idealist who believed that â€Å"there is no cause half so sacred as the cause of a people. There is no idea so uplifting as the idea of the service of humanity†. Yet he was also considered a racist. A. The Child Thomas Woodrow Wilson was born December 28, 1856 at Staunton, Virginia; one of four children to Joseph Ruggles Wilson and Janet Wilson who were of Scottish descent. His family moved to Augusta, Georgia a year after his birth and then in 1870 moving to Columbia and later moved to Wilmington in 1884. Woodrow later drop his first name, Thomas. B. The Student He got his early education from a few ex-Confederate soldiers who set up some schools after the Civil war and his father who taught him religion, literature and British history. At sixteen years of age, Wilson attended Davidson College, North Carolina for one year and later drop out of college due to his health. In 1875, he attended a College of New Jersey which is now known as Princeton University where he graduated in 1879. Later that year he studied law at the University of Virginia but left school again due to personal reasons. He continued his studying law on his own after returning home of Wilmington, North Carolina. He set up a legal practice with a friend from the University of Virginia in 1882 and passed the Georgia Bar Exam. Later, he left the practice of law and decided to continue his education at John Hopkins University, Baltimore. There he was enrolled as a graduate student in history and political science and earned his PH. D in 1886. With his research study, he made the dissertation known as Congressional Government: A Study in American Politics. In this dissertation, Wilson argued about the power the congressional government has over a weak postwar Presidency and for a constitutional change of separation of powers between Congress and the President to that of the British Parliament. In the final year of his graduate school, Wilson, at 28 years old, married Ellen Louise Axson, in Savannah, Georgia. They had three daughters in their life together, Margaret, Jessie, and Eleanor. Woodrow Wilson became an instructor at Bryn Mawr College from 1885 to 1888 teaching political economy and public law. He then accepted professorship at Wesleyan University in Connecticut, teaching history for two years. After 1890, he went back to Princeton University teaching political economy and law. From 1902 – 1910, Woodrow Wilson served as President of Princeton University. Wilson’s tenure helped shape Princeton into one of America’s great universities. C. The Governor Wilson ran for governor of New Jersey accepting the conservative Democrats’ proposal and won the democratic nomination. He shocked the politicians by declaring independence of the political bosses and later won the decisive victory over the Republican opponent and began his reforms against the political bosses. During two year period, Wilson had pushed legislation to allow voters to choose their candidates rather than having party bosses choose as well as secure reform for campaign finances. He also made passage for Workers Compensation for families whose working member is injured or killed on the job as well as improve the public utility commission to improve rates. During his time as Governor of New Jersey, many progressive leaders took interest in Wilson as a potential Presidential candidate, especially the Democrat William Jennings Bryan. D. The President Woodrow Wilson narrowly won the Democratic nomination in 1912 putting him against President Taft of the Republicans, Theodore Roosevelt of the Bull Moose Party, and Eugene Debs of the Socialist Party. Wilson on his platform presented a program called the â€Å"New Freedom† which busted up corporate monopolies to allow the chance for competition to prevent monopolies from controlling the Federal government. Wilson won the election with 41. 9% becoming the 28th President of the United States. Few reforms he first put out was the tariff reform, The Underwood Act; which had lowered rates from 40% to 27%, as well as creating the first federal income tax with the passage of the 16th Amendment. In 1914, Ellen Louise Axson, Wilson’s wife and First Lady, died from Bright’s disease. In 1915, Wilson married Edith Bolling Galt, who happens to be a widow at the time which made her the 2nd First Lady. With the Election of 1916 coming, the main focus came to light about the War in Europe, which Wilson being the Democratic candidate with Marshall as his running mate, bent on neutrality of keeping the United States out of the European War. His opponents were the reunited Republican Party with Charles Evan Hughes of New York as their candidate. Wilson called for military preparedness as well as a world association of peace for maintaining peace after the war in Europe ends, as well as women suffrage, and ending child labor. Democratic delegates also came up with the chant, â€Å"He kept us out of war† as the campaign slogan. Wilson had narrowly won the election in November with 49. 4% vote and 277 electoral vote compared to Hughes 46. 2% vote and 254 electoral vote. E. The Racist Wilson initiated his segregation efforts while president of Princeton University, he discouraged blacks from applying for admission. Wilson's History of the American People (1901) described the Ku Klux Klan of the late 1860s as a lawless reaction to a lawless period. Wilson wrote that the Klan â€Å"began to attempt by intimidation what they were not allowed to attempt by the ballot or by any ordered course of public action†. Wilson considered African American immigrants unfitting for American citizenship and unable to integrate in the American society. He made this very evident in his book, History of the American People. Wilson described slaves as â€Å"indolent† and compared them to â€Å"shiftless children† and thought that slave masters were patient with these lazy laborers. Woodrow Wilson disapproved of the idea of African American being free. He usual related them to animals and commonly referred to blacks as darkies. Wilson held the common neo-Confederate view that the South was demoralized by Northern advocates and Congressional hassle of black equality justified extreme measures to reassert white supremacist national and state governments. Though in 1912, â€Å"an extraordinary number of African Americans left the Republican Party to vote for Wilson (a Democrat), encouraged by his promises to support minorities, Wilson’s cabinet expanded racially segregationist policies. Under Woodrow Wilson administration, most federal government offices were segregated – in some departments for the first time since 1863. Many African American employees were demoted or fired. Some segregationist federal workplace policies introduced by the Wilson administration remained until the Truman Administration in the 1940s. In 1914, Wilson told The New York Times, â€Å"If the colored people made a mistake in voting for me, they ought to correct it†. F. The Public Administrator Wilson believed Public Administration was â€Å"government in action; it is the executive, the operative, the most visible side of government, and is of course as old as government itself†. He was fretful about the implementation of government so he studied public administration because he believed that it could increase governmental efficiency. He condemned political leader who modulated the importance of government administration and made it â€Å"†¦Ã¢â‚¬ ¦.. harder to run the constitution than to frame it†. Woodrow Wilson thought that the United States required greater compromise because of the diversity of public opinion. He compared administration to a machine that functions independent of the changing mood of its leaders. Wilson put it, â€Å"public attention must be easily directed, in each case of good or bad administration, to just the man deserving of praise or blame. There is no danger in power, if only it be not irresponsible. If it be divided, dealt out in share to many, it is obscured†¦. † II. Conclusion In 1919, Wilson suffered a stroke while on a speaking tour in Pueblo, Colorado, making him unable to carry out his Presidential duties effectively. After leaving office, he retired in Washington DC where he spent the remaining three years of his life before passing away on February 3, 1924. He is the only President to be buried in the National Cathedral in Washington DC. He changed the Democratic Party to a â€Å"party of reform† as well as changing foreign policy to internationalism from isolationism. He also left behind the Federal Reserve, the tariff reduction, federal regulation of business, as well as support for the labor unions. He helped prepare the United States for its role in the world with creating the League of Nations only for the US to join its; predecessor the United Nations. Woodrow Wilson left behind an idea that would fuel for global peace.

Task 5 – Bic

Business in context (Chapter 6) ~ Discussion questions. How are goals formed and what are the major difficulties encountered in goal formulation and implementation? Goals are formed to give direction to the activities of its members. The formation of goals can be a highly political process; this can cause conflict, but the goals of most businesses are generally accepted as being these of the senior management team. Goals are developed much through the work of Cyert and March (1963). They see organizations in terms of individuals and groups who combine to pursue mutual interests; this is the most effective way of achieving their goals.Goals are more specific statements of intent than a mission statement, but are still broad and generalised. What are the major causes of goal conflict and how might they be resolved? The main causes of goal conflict are that they can be highly political. Conflict is mainly through four main factors which are: 1. Goals formulated by senior management as a means of achieving their own goals; this is a result of bargaining and negotiating process between interest groups. 2. Organization members would appear to accept the goals from top management with little question; this may seem to be an implied element of the employment contract. . The dominant coalition is normally put in place to achieve their goals; such controls have been alluded to earlier and include selection procedures, to ensure all rules are followed. In addition technology can replace job allocation, and financial controls in the form of budgets and reward systems, managers ensure a minimum level of compliance with their chosen goals. 4. Management have different goals to many of the groups; they have to acknowledge this. Assess the relative importance of the various strategic, organizational and environmental factors, which influence organizational structure.An organizational structure is a grouping of activities and people to achieve the goals of the organization. The re are a number of factors that influence a structure. First the relationship between both structure and strategy is examined, then in the work of A. Chandler which then identified other factors such as: (1)Technology (2)Size (3)Changes in the environment (4)Culture and (5)Interest groups. Why did firms adopt multi? divisional structures? What advantages do they have over functional structures? A multi – divisional company compromises a number of business units, which may pursue markedly different types of business activity.The business units operate as a profit centres and are culturally co-ordinated by a corporate headquarters, which may also control certain central services, some of which are as research and development and finance. This kind of structure was developed in the USA in response to a business growth and complexity. Stopford and Wills (1972) noted that a strong influence of strategy on structure and that the shift from functional to multi – divisional st ructures with expansion internationally. Assess the advantages and the disadvantages to both management and employees of flexile forms of organization.Flexibility within a firm / organization can occur in a number of ways; these include the employment of part time workers, those on short term contracts and the use of outsourced contract work. Advantages – management. 1. Employees are able to do a range of jobs, so they do not have to hire as many people. 2. Important recognition of the difficulties that many employees have in balancing their family obligations and their work duties, and they note that such programs can make a company more attractive to prospective employees Disadvantages – management. 1.If used by employees who are unwilling or unable to put in a full day of work amid the non-work temptations (television, pleasure reading, housecleaning, etc. ) of a home setting. Other companies, meanwhile, find that employees â€Å"flex† in and out of the busin ess at such different hours that overhead costs increase, customer service suffers (i. e. , no one comes in until 9:30 a. m. , a state of affairs that forces customers and vendors to cool their heels until then), and manufacturing output suffers. This latter factor makes flex time a difficult fit for many manufacturing facilities. 2.Flex programs often leave managers in exceedingly difficult situations. â€Å"Far too often, flex is embraced †¦ for its ‘family-friendly' aspects long before the corporate support needed to manage it takes root,† flex policies are outlined in the employee manual but implementation is left up to individual managers. Then, when managers try to implement these programs, they discover that to be fair, flex requires them to treat different employees differently. † Advantages – Employees. 1. Flexible work programs are work arrangements wherein employees are given greater scheduling freedom in how they fulfil the obligations of t heir positions.The most commonplace of these programs is flexitime, which gives workers far greater leeway in terms of the time when they begin and end work, provided they put in the total number of hours required by the employer. Other common flexible working arrangements involve telecommuting, job-sharing, and compressed work weeks. 2. Many employees have in balancing their family obligations and their work duties, and they note that such programs can make a company more attractive to prospective employees. Disadvantages – Employees. 1.Most employees of a flexible organization are only hired part time, to do a variety of jobs, and are not offered permanent contracts. How significant is the separation of ownership and control to the way the businesses operate? Is the agency problem an issue today? The separation of ownership and control is associated with publicly held business corporations in which the shareholders possess little or no direct control over management decisio ns. This separation is generally attributed to collective action problems associated with dispersed share ownership.The separation of ownership and control permits hierarchical decision making which, for some types of decisions, is superior to the market. The separation of ownership and control creates costs due to adverse selection and moral hazard. These costs are potentially mitigated by a number of mechanisms including business failure, the market for corporate control, and the enforcement of fiduciary duties, corporate governance oversight, managerial financial incentives and institutional shareholder activism. Examine the advantages and the prime beneficiaries of privatization.To what extent does privatization solve the problems of managing public sector organizations? Privatization refers to the government policy of selling off public assets to private ownership control, usually by share issue. The policy was prevalent in the UK in the 1980’s, driven largely by an ideo logical belief in the workings of the free market. The advantages of privatization are as follows: 1. It creates increased competition, which leads to increased efficiency, higher productivity, quality improvement and ultimately, growth and profit. . Shareholders have a financial interest in the effective management of the enterprise. Manager’s performance is therefore closely monitored and controlled. 3. Since customers have a choice, there will be a focus on customers care and service levels will improve. 4. Costs will be reduced as a result of competition. In particular there will be a reduction in labour costs as organizations seek greater efficiencies. 5. There will be improved awareness of and adaption changes to in local, national and global environments. 6.There will be greater incentives for staff through more flexible pay arrangements and profit – sharing schemes. Managers will be encouraged through incentives to be more innovative and proactive. 7. For the n ewly privatized organizations there would be greatly increased opportunity for raising revenue which could be reinvested in the operation. It was assumed this would stimulate innovation to the benefit of all. 8. For the state there will be a reduced public sector deficit and borrowing requirement. Privatized businesses will attract more inward investment. . Society will change as more people are given the opportunity to own shares. To what extent and in what ways are small firms economically relevant today? The value of a small business may be viewed in terms of benefits to the owners, economic growth, the number of jobs they provide, and their service to the consumer. Many governments see the small firm as an essential part of a healthy economy. The most obvious role for a small business firm in this respect is to act as a seedbed for future big businesses and in doing so secure the future of the economy.A small business is also seen as a potential to fill gaps in the market by off ering specialist products that would be uneconomic for a large firm to offer. More significantly, the small firm is seen as a force for change by being inherently more flexible and innovative than the larger businesses. In particular the small firm is seen as a useful vehicle in a recession; small firms are seen as price takers and therefore offer no threat to inflation rates, and they are able to plug the gaps left after larger firms have rationalized their operations.Overall a small business represents the individual economic efforts of our global citizens. They are the foundation of the global economic growth: virtually all of the new jobs, 53% of employment, 51% of private sector output, and a disproportionate share of innovations come from small firms. Small businesses are avenues of opportunity for women and minorities, first employers and trainers of the young, important employers of elderly workers, and those formerly on public assistance. What influences the type of culture found in an organization?Organizational culture  is the collective behaviour of humans who are part of an organization and the meanings that the people attach to their actions. Culture includes the organization values, visions, norms, working language, systems, symbols, beliefs and habits. It is also the pattern of such collective behaviours and assumptions that are taught to new organizational members as a way of perceiving, and even thinking and feeling. Organizational culture affects the way people and groups interact with each other, with clients, and with stakeholders.What is the relationship between the type of corporate culture envisaged by Deal & Kennedy and by Peters & Waterman and company performance in terms of profitability and job satisfaction? Can the internal culture of an organization act as a buffer against environmental influences? Corporate culture focuses on the use of culture as control device to enhance performance through the development of greater commitme nt and the integration of all employees at all levels in the organization.It is the perspective on culture at the level of the firm that attracts the greatest critical attention. Some writers notably Peters and Waterman (1982) believe that such strong cultures are a central feature of the so called excellent company. Case 6. 2 – questions. (Dow Corning) 1. What were the key factors involved in Dow Corning changing from a functional to a divisional and then a matrix structure? How were these influences relate to the six influences (on structure) identified earlier in this section? 2. What problems did Dow Corning encounter with the matrix organization?How might such problems have been minimized? 3. What structure would be most appropriate for the company to aid its recovery post Chapter 11 bankruptcy? Case 6. 3 – questions. (Network Rail) 1. What rationale can you give for the privatization of British Rail? 2. What, in your view, were the key factors that created the pr oblems in Rail track? 3. In what ways will Network Rail differ from Rail track? What similar problems will it face? 4. What does the case tell us about the privatization of industries such as the railways?

Weber and Simmels Take on Power and Conflict Essays

Weber and Simmels Take on Power and Conflict Essays Weber and Simmels Take on Power and Conflict Essay Weber and Simmels Take on Power and Conflict Essay Amber Clayton Weber and Simmel’s Take on Power and Conflict Jon Witt, explaining Max Weber’s theory on resources of power, was not surprised at the fact that students do not use the party resource to fight for better tuition costs, because of the individualistic society of the United States. This fits into conflict theory because the school would be considered a rational-legal authority. The students â€Å"give in† to the rules and perceived rights of the school to raise tuition costs. As Jon Witt said â€Å"there are reasons†¦ for why people should do what they are told to do. If the school did not charge the students money then they would not be able to pay the teachers and professors to educate them. This idea fits into the broader theory because Witt’s claim about the US being individualistic is not expanded in this chapter, but it is in previous ones. In chapter 4, Witt mentioned â€Å"†¦we combine extreme interdepe ndence (due to specialization) with a strong sense of individualism (tied to a weak collective conscience). We depend on each other more than ever, but we realize it less. In an article by Margaret Foster, she asks 70 college presidents â€Å"can you school continue to attract students at its current rate of tuition growth? † and 80% said yes. This tells me that students are simply following the rational-legal authority of the bureaucratic schools, choosing to accept the higher charges and taking out higher loans. The students most likely do this because they are too weak as individuals to do anything about it or they assume the school leaders are making these decisions because they have no other choice (bad economy, budget cuts, ect). George Ritzer claims that the unpredictability of human error has led to a desire for greater control and the replacement of human with nonhuman technology. The idea of companies (bureaucracies) replacing humans with technology to ensure efficiency fits into Weber’s theory of formal rationality. As Ritzer explains â€Å"[Fast-food chains have] employed all the rational principles pioneered by the bureaucracy and is part of the bureaucratic system because huge conglomerates now own many of the fast-food chains. McDonald’s utilized bureaucratic principles and combined them with others, and the outcome is the process of McDonaldization. † Ritzer backs his claim up with multiple examples and evidence. One of which being the replacement of human communication over the telephone. Companies force people to go through a string of â€Å"press 1 for yes or 2 for no†s before they even talk to a real person. In some cases, the person doesn’t speak to a real person at all. Although annoying, people just excuse it away as a consequence of living in our technological world. This idea is expanded in an article by Karen Korzep. She outlines the advantages and problems with TeleHealth (medical technology) and the resistance among people to a total technological take-over. She explains in her conclusion that â€Å"just because the technology exists, does not mean that everyone will be accepting to it†¦ [however] [i]n my opinion, it will be at least one more decade before we see this technology take over and really have an effect on jobs. † Therefore, even though people may have resistance to the technology and worry that it will affect jobs negatively, the technology will still, most likely, take over in time. William J. Staudenmeier, Jr. claims in his chapter about Georg Simmel’s theories on social drinking that when a member of the group buys a round of drinks, the others would not simply pay them money, because â€Å"treating†¦ has to do with personal relationships, and it is not strictly an economic exchange. † This idea fits into conflict theory because the taverns are becoming more and more bureaucratic with rules and regulations that the consumers must follow or face the consequences (kicked out or banned for fighting or over drinking). Instead of backing his claim up with evidence, Staudenmeier expands on the idea by saying â€Å"the ‘surplus of satisfaction’†¦ comes from the value of giving and receiving in a group in which such actions and the thought of such actions make us feel good and make us feel a part of the group. This is outside the narrow cash nexus of economic exchange because what is calculated here is not mere profit and loss. † The issue of teenage pregnancy and how it fits into this theory is best addressed in an article by Linda Arms Gilbert. She outlined a study done by the Franklin Heights Federal Housing Project in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. The Murfreesboro Housing Authority partnered with the police department to help rid the projects from drug-related behaviors by developing positive relationships with the Franklin Heights families. The police department made over 500 contacts, creating a positive working relationship between the families and law enforcement as well as informed residents willing to provide tips against drug-related behaviors. The Parks and Recreation Department started an after-school program for 8-13-year old students, which included educational leisurely activities and an after-school tutoring program. A Parents as Teachers Program was started that allowed teen mothers to connect with their children. The program â€Å"held group meetings to help young parents understand the emotional, physical cognitive needs of their young children and to form a community of teen mothers who could offer support to each other. In the end â€Å"Franklin Heights has taught an entire city about the importance of collaboration and has shown what can be accomplished when individuals and agencies choose to look beyond the borders of their own job descriptions and departments to see the needs of families within that community. † The point is that, even in a bureaucratic society where, typically, rational-legal authority does not think about the well-being of their â€Å"workers† (in this case, the people who req uire government assistance), there can be an authority who thinks beyond what is efficient and profitable and helps the issue of teenage pregnancy, drug use, and violence. - [ 1 ]. John Witt, The Big Picture: A Sociology Primer (New York: The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. , 2007) p 89 [ 2 ]. Witt, p 86 [ 3 ]. Witt, 59 [ 4 ]. FOSTER, MARGARET. Sticker Shock. American Scholar 82. 1 (2013): 120. Academic Search Premier. Web. 2 Mar. 2013. [ 5 ]. George Ritzer, The Weberian Theory of Rationalization and the McDonaldization of Contemporary Society, Peter Kivisto, ed. , Illuminating Social Life: Classical and Contemporary Theory Revisited, 4th ed. (Thousand Oaks, CA: Pine Forge Press, 2008), p 52 [ 6 ]. Ritzer, p 45 [ 7 ]. Ritzer, p 54 [ 8 ]. Korzep, Karen. The Future Of Technology And The Effect It May Have On Replacing Human Jobs. Technology Health Care 18. 4/5 (2010): 353-358. Academic Search Premier. Web. 2 Mar. 2013. [ 9 ]. Korzep, p 357 [ 10 ]. William Staudenmeier, Jr. , Alcohol-Related Windows on Simmels Social World, Kivisto, 109 [ 11 ]. Staudenmeier, Jr. , p 110 [ 12 ]. Gilbert, Linda Arms. The Teen Pregnancy Dilemma: A Different Solution. Delta Kappa Gamma Bulletin 73. 3 (2007): 5-8. Academic Search Premier. Web. 2 Mar. 2013. p 3 [ 13 ]. Gilbert, p 3

Sofia Kovalevskaya, Russian Mathematician

Sofia Kovalevskaya, Russian Mathematician Sofia Kovalevskayas father, Vasily Korvin-Krukovsky, was a general in the Russian Army and was part of Russian nobility. Her mother,   Yelizaveta Shubert,  was from a German family with many scholars; her maternal grandfather and great-grandfather were both mathematicians. She was born in Moscow, Russia, in 1850. Background Known for: first woman to hold a university chair in modern Europefirst woman on the editorial staff of a mathematical journal Dates:  January 15, 1850 - February 10, 1891 Occupation:  novelist,  mathematician Also known as:  Also known as: Sonya Kovalevskaya, Sofya Kovalevskaya, Sophia Kovalevskaia, Sonia Kovelevskaya, Sonya Korvin-Krukovsky Learning Mathematics As a young child Sofia Kovalevskaya was fascinated with the unusual wallpaper on the wall of a room on the family estate: the lecture notes of Mikhail Ostrogradsky on differential and integral calculus. Although her father provided her with private tutoring- including calculus at age 15- he would not allow her to study abroad for further education, and Russian universities would not then admit women. But Sofia Kovalevskaya wanted to continue her studies in mathematics, so she found a solution: an amenable young student of paleontology, Vladimir Kovalensky, who entered into a marriage of convenience with her. This allowed her to escape the control of her father. In 1869, they left Russia with her sister, Anyuta. Sonja went to Heidelberg, Germany, Sofia Kovalensky went to Vienna, Austria, and Anyuta went to Paris, France. University Study In Heidelberg, Sofia Kovalevskaya obtained permission of the mathematics professors to allow her to study at the University of Heidelberg. After two years she went to Berlin to study with Karl Weierstrass. She had to study privately with him, as the university in Berlin would not allow any women to attend class sessions, and Weierstrass was unable to get the university to change the rule. With Weierstrass support Sofia Kovalevskaya pursued a degree in mathematics elsewhere, and her work earned her a doctorate sum cumma laude from the University of Gà ¶ttingen in 1874. Her doctoral dissertation on partial differential equations is today called the Cauch-Kovelevskaya Theorem. It so impressed the faculty that they awarded Sofia  Kovalevskaya the doctorate without examination and without her having attended any classes at the university. Looking for Work Sofia Kovalevskaya and her husband returned to Russia after she earned her doctorate. They were unable to find the academic positions they desired. They pursued commercial ventures and produced a daughter as well. Sofia Kovalevskaya began writing fiction, including a novella Vera Barantzova which won sufficient acclaim to be translated into several languages. Vladimir Kovalensky, immersed in a financial scandal for which he was about to be prosecuted, committed suicide in 1883. Sofia Kovalevskaya had already returned to Berlin and mathematics, taking their daughter with her. Teaching and Publishing She became a privatdozent at Stockholm University, paid by her students rather than the university. In 1888 Sofia Kovalevskaya won the Prix Bordin from the French Academie Royale des Sciences for research now called the Kovelevskaya top. This research examined how Saturns rings rotated. She also won a prize from the Swedish Academy of Sciences in 1889, and that same year was appointed to a chair at the university- the first woman appointed to a chair at a modern European university. She was also elected to the Russian Academy of Sciences as a member that same year. She only published ten papers before her death from influenza in 1891, after a trip to Paris to see Maxim Kovalensky, a relative of her late husband with whom she was having a love affair. A lunar crater on the far side of the moon from Earth and an asteroid were both named in her honor. Sources Ann Hibner Koblitz. A Convergence of Lives: Sofia Kovalevskaia: Scientist, Writer, Revolutionary. 1993 reprint.Roger Cooke. The Mathematics of Sonya Kovalevskaya. 1984.Linda Keene, editor. The Legacy of Sonya Kovalevskaya: Proceedings of a Symposium. 1987.

Case Assignment (Business Ethics) Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Assignment (Business Ethics) - Case Study Example However in that process, they engaged themselves into practices which may not be termed as ethical in nature. The various issues which have been discussed in the article points towards various ethical lapses in the organization on systematic, organization and individual level. From the information provided in the Case study, there are various ethical issues involved in this case. A closer look at the facts would suggest that the company has a good past record where the employee relationship, cleanliness, good work practices were dominating forces within the organization however, the consolidation in the industry coupled with recession saw the tide turning as most of the meat processors in the country focused on improving their profitability which eventually resulted into cost cutting and a compromises on the quality of the meat produced as well as the internal work practices within those organizations. Further the whole situation with specific regard to the company changed when the ownership of the company changed forcing it to go through a change which was really painful not for the employees only but for the overall health of the organization also. The systems and procedures put in place within the organization suggest that there is a more stress on ensuring that the meat processing plants meet the targets of processing meat every day. In order to achieve the same, the systems and procedures within the organization was horrible as the processing of meat was done according to the standards. The health standards were not meet. This violation has further deteriorated the systems and procedures within the organization to a point where no proper standard operating procedures were put in place in terms of better work procedures. Blood usually were not been washed away every day. The assembly line was stuffed with lot of work to process i.e. approximately 400 cows per hour which greatly hampered the quality as more toxin materials were used to be split over the meat or piercing of other toxic organs of the cows resulting into their splitting over the meat seriously points towards the fact that on systematic level, there were lot of et hical issues which needed to be addressed. In order to correct the issues related with the systematic ethics, organization need to revamp its procedures. The assembly lines should be widened in order to lessen the work load on the existing employees so that the procedures can be performed efficiently, effectively by taking into account all the health related measures. One of the biggest disadvantages with the company is the fact its procedures do not allow the element of health of the consumers of its products to take precedence in deciding how the meat should be processed. Rather the focus is on generating volumes at the cost of health of the consumers. The operating procedures therefore need to revise in order to make them more ethical. Apart from that the overall hiring standards, employee relationships , the attitude of the line managers suggest that too much stress is being laid on unethical procedures where most of the time, migrants are

Reflection on Eco-Catastrophe Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Reflection on Eco-Catastrophe - Essay Example Reality is of course that forty years later the world is still here, ecological, population and hunger problems still exist but there is more awareness and more measures are being taken to combat the issues in all areas of environmental and global health care. The article is one that requires multiple readings in order to fully determine and appreciate the cynicism and at times wit of the writer, for although fatalistic in his beliefs he shows a degree of humor, albeit satirical in his denotation of the large powers of the western world. It is his depictions of catastrophic global events however, that cause readers to stop, take stock and reflect on what he purports because, although far in exaggeration, there are some elements of his prophecies that are apparent, real, and need of intervention if global health is to be improved. Although there is not the mass starvation predicted by Ehrlich there are many people in the world who are starving and in need of basic health care, particularly in developing countries, but most of this is caused by war and poverty rather than lack of food. Although there has been a drive, whether for corporate or government gain, to increase crop yields and other food by use of biotechnology the debate on the risks and benefits of such food is stifling its purpose of feeding the hungry and giving help where it is most needed. Although the oceans are not depleted, the air is not killing millions of people, and population control is by choice, and being undertaken, in most situations, in a humanitarian manner, not as envisioned by Ehrlich, the problems do exist. Ecological factors that are negative are a threat to human health and therefore need to be controlled; conditions that promote invasive bacteria, viruses or diseases, for example, need to be monitored; air pollution can lead to diseases of the respiratory system or cancer; water quality in terms of contaminants, carriage, and treatment and  industrial outflows, all require environmental management that can assist in maintaining and reinstating health.  

NESTLE Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 5750 words

NESTLE - Essay Example Nestle sales for 2010 were almost CHF 110 bn (roughly 109 billion US Dollars). It manufactures and sells about 7500 brands in different nutrition and wellness categories. This report provides an analysis and evaluation of the range of alternative aspects related to international entrepreneurship employed by Nestle to influence business activity, by clearly identifying conclusions drawn from the analysis. The paper will give recommendations and suggest areas of further study. The report finds the international business prospects of the company in its current position are positive. The areas of weakness require further investigation and remedial action by management. Introduction Entrepreneurship is a process through which individuals or organizations identify opportunities, allocate resources, and create value.   This creation of value is often through the identification of unmet needs or through the identification of opportunities for change. Entrepreneurs see â€Å"problems† as â€Å"opportunities,† then take action to identify the solutions to those problems and the customers who will pay to have those problems solved. Entrepreneurial success is simply a function of the ability of an entrepreneur to see these opportunities in the marketplace, initiate change (or take advantage of change) and create value through solutions. (Greg). International or Global Business is defined as the exchange of goods and services among individuals and businesses in multiple countries. It is specific entity, such as a multinational corporation or international business company that engages in business among multiple countries. To initiate and expand international business, International marketing is required. International marketing is the process of conceptualizing and then conveying a final product or service worldwide with the hopes of reaching the international marketing community. Proper global marketing has the ability to catapult a company to the next leve l, if they do it correctly. Different strategies are implemented based on the region the company is marketing to. Global /International marketing is especially important to companies that provide products or services that have a universal demand such as automobiles and food.( jetzt). In this backdrop, Nestle is a true International entrepreneur / business. Henri Nestle in Vevey, Switzerland, founded the company in 1866 with headquarters still located there. Company employs around 280000 people and has factories or operations in almost every country in the world. Nestle sales for 2010 were almost CHF 110 bn (roughly 109 billion US Dollars). It manufactures and sells about 7500 brands in different nutrition and wellness categories. (Nestle) .Nestle deals in variety of food, health and nutrition products. Main categories of products include but not limited to Baby Foods, Sports Nutrition, Chocolates, Waters, Coffee, Beverages, Frozen Meals, Ice Cream and Frozen Treats, Imported Foods, Healthcare Nutrition, Pet Foods and Food services worldwide. Creating a global business strategy involves first carrying out an environmental analysis of political, economic, social, and technological trends that are relevant to operating on a global scale. An organization’s mission statement should then reflect this global focus. A mission statement is a relatively short statement outlining the purpose of an organization. It creates a direction for the organization. Having a clear set of objectives enables strategic planners within an organization to develop the plans - strategies that enable the organization to focus on global markets. A key element of this global strategy will be a global

The Family Structure as a “Mythical Force” in the Fate of the Heroines Essay Example for Free

The Family Structure as a â€Å"Mythical Force† in the Fate of the Heroines Essay In the long history of Chinese Literature, the role of women has always been very limited to isolated cases only. These limitation and restriction refer of course not only to women fictionists, poets, and other writers but also to women characters in fiction, poems, and other writings. As a matter of fact, it is said that women’s literature has been badge by critics as inferior and mediocre in the context of a larger Chinese literary theory. This can be attributed to the many and varied restrictions imposed on women not only in mainstream and classic Chinese literature but also in Chinese society[i]. At the onset, China has been portrayed by both Chinese and foreigners as a country which is known to have observed two of the most women-biased practices in the world. First is a place where there is a palpable patriarchal family system where women are assigned and restricted to traditional domestic roles. Second is a place where 1949 revolution and post- Mao reforms has thwarted marriage and family life altogether[ii]. Traditional China is known to have a government that reserve officialdom and educational opportunities exclusively for men. Women would only have an opportunity to learn through family ties and clans. For the most part of the population such as the peasant, the artisans, and the merchants, most of the women would not even have an opportunity for education as opposed to the members of educated elite where women have a chance to at least learn little things like playing a musical instrument, learning how to paint, and learning how to play chess. However, girls are only limited to learn such things as compared to their brothers who go to schools and taught by private tutors. This disparity is attributed to two reasons. First, there is no such thing as lure of wealth and fame for the family that accompanied girls’ involvement in civil service examinations and official career. Second, the Chinese society dictates that the primary and foremost role of a woman is to fulfill her prescribed functions in the family as a wife, a mother, and a daughter-in-law. For the most part in the history of China, women’s lives have been devoted to the preparation for and actual undertaking of these traditional roles in their own nuclear family and most especially the family of their husbands[iii]. At an early age, young girls are undertaking an exclusive feminine training program. This is followed in a very strict manner from one family to another. At the age of seven, the girl must be separated from her brothers and other male relatives. She will then be send in her own apartment where her only company would only be her nurse, her maidservant, and the female members of the family like mothers and sisters. At the age of ten, he will then be taught various and important domestic arts such as sewing, weaving, embroidering, and supervising household. In her middle late teens, her marriage will then be arranged by her parents and will have to devote her life to her husband, parents-in-law, and children[iv]. Marriage in China is not the kind of marriage that we know it today. It is an alliance of two families rather than an alliance of two lovers. The bride and the groom desires and choices were taken into consideration only if they are not contrary to the concern and interest of the family[v].   There is a high range of parental involvement in the marriage choices of their children. As a matter of fact, parents often initiate the matchmaking most especially in urban areas. It is also said that mothers have exercised more influence in their children’s marriages than fathers as a general rule[vi]. Women have the greatest burden in them because they are expected to behave in certain fashion and to have the perfect qualities of a wife. In general, a bride is expected to have accomplished her three major responsibilities. It is believed that to fall short of these expectations would bring disgrace to herself, her parents, and to her clan. First of these three obligations would be to perform domestic duties. This would include cooking, sewing, embroidering, taking care of children, and other domestic roles that she is taught and expected to learn and practice by heart and soul such as Mrs. Wenqing in A Posthumous Son by Ye Shaojun. Second of these obligations would be to attend to the needs and comfort of her husband and other elders. This is understood as not only doing domestic roles but also to be there for the husband in times of both physical and emotional needs. The third and the most important of all are the bearing and the raising of a male descendant[vii]. It is the fulfillment of the last obligation that a woman’s position and authority in the family is greatly hinged. It is believed that having a son is highly important because it is the only way to assure the continuity of the family line. If she can’t have a natural son, she would adopt from other family members and relatives. The family could also hire a concubine where the father could bear a child with. The child will then become a member of the family with the first wife as the acting mother of the child. He will then be incorporated in the first family as an heir as if he is a natural son of the first couple.     Throughout the lifetime of a married Chinese woman, she is totally confined within the sphere of her residence and her domestic roles. She can only have occasional trips to temples, scenic spots, and house of a relative but for the most part of her life she is confine in the four corners of the house of her husband[viii]. Not only are women depicted in this kind of roles and predicament in the society but also in literature. There are a lot of criticisms over the silencing of women not only in everyday life situations but also in literature[ix]. In particular, a Chinese household is represented primarily by a long string of ancestors that is traced back from one senior male to another senior male. This lineage is defined by the relationship of a father to his son and from brother to brother. In this sense, women are generally outsiders. They are only necessary for so long as they can reproduce sons and heirs. Otherwise, they are aliens in the husband’s family. After she is married to her husband, she is to retain her natal surname because she is expected to maintain links of her birth family to secure political alliances. This is only for this purpose, other than this; she is also an alien to her birth family as well. This means one thing, the woman is only recognized as a member of the family and as a blood relative for so long as they are beneficial to the ties. In other words, she is really an outsider to their personal lives. Daughters are only considered as a temporary member of his father’s household because she is expected to be married to her husband. Moreover, daughter also does not have a share in her father’s land and other properties[x]. In the stories that will discussed in the next paragraphs, it is evident that the role of women in the domestic sphere and the positions that they occupy in the household and in the family results not only to their inferiority but also to their demise and fall. This pre-determined roles that they have which is both imposed by the society and defined by patriarchal ideologies is the very reason why women in traditional China ended up to their graveyards and their misfortunes. This is also true in literature, the prescribed roles that women have in the household outline their troubles, grief, and fate. The roles that they have to fulfill for the benefit of the family are seldom appreciated and were never enough for their male counterparts. These demise and misfortune that they experienced and will experience could be explained not only because of their imposed traditional roles but also to their relationship with men especially their husbands. Women’s powerlessness coupled with men’s authority is the main reason why women’s lives fall apart. Because of these two factors, women are sent to their fall. First, they are unable to decide for themselves because of the prescribed roles imposed by the society. Second, they are unable to defy the norms because of a patriarchal authority and power that they are made to succumb to. These two factors work hand in hand to oppressed women not only in the society but also in literature. The heroines in the four stories that are to be discussed next will contextualize the abovementioned claim that this paper is espousing. At the onset, women are expected to accomplish all the three obligations that she is expected to have. The third and the most important one which is already mentioned earlier would be to produce an heir. In A Posthumous Son, the wife’s predicament started when she is unable to produce a son after several attempts. The first child was a daughter. The second up to the seventh one is also a daughter which saddened the mother and angered the father. It is evident that the Chinese tradition dislikes daughters. In Mr. Wenqing’s opinion: â€Å"But the third one was also a girl. This was getting a bit irritating. We’re not gardeners, what can we do with all these flowers, even if they do look pretty; as far as keeping us company in our old age is concerned, we don’t need that many! And then the fourth one was also a girl! I can’t help feeling that there must be something wrong with the way your body works, if it can only produce girls and nothing else. What’s the point in producing the same thing time after when what we need is some variety[xi]†. This quote suggest more than the dislike of daughters but also of attributing the entire fault to the woman. This statement by the father asserts his authority over the woman. Moreover, it also reasserts the responsibilities of the woman to produce a son. It is evident that all throughout the story the only concern of both the mother and the father was to produce a son and nothing else. As a matter of fact, the mother has already compensated her attention towards her other kids because of her desire to produce an heir. However, this desire is not wholly for her sake but only for the sake of the husband. It is evident that she is willing to undergo several pregnancies which are dangerous to her health just for the sake of fulfilling her obligation to her husband. â€Å"Nevertheless she did not give way to despair, since she retained her faith in her child-bearing capacity. Once more she pleaded him, ‘Please wait one more time, just this once! If there’s no change this time, I won’t stand in your way any longer. I don’t want to make things worse for either of us[xii]’† Furthermore, this story also affirms the earlier assertion that the role of a woman is reduced to their abilities to accomplish the very important obligation of hers which is to produce an heir. Otherwise, they can be replaceable and will be considered as a stranger or an alien in the household. The husband has in fact considered replacing her and has replaced her with another woman which can give him a son. â€Å"Only girls, never anything else! You can’t blame me, I’ve been as patient as any man could be, I’ve got no choice but to get another woman.[xiii].† This suggests that the relationship of husband and wife in the Chinese household is really all about having an heir and never about love and support. This is also true in the story Slaves’ Mother in which the father hired a concubine. Moreover, he was even willing to spend a fortune just for him to have a son with the second mother. This responsibility outlines the worth of the woman. In which case, it depresses her when she cannot fulfill them because this responsibility is equal to her life and her survival. As a matter of fact, it is evident that in the story she was likewise devastated as her husband when she found out that she cannot produce anything else but daughters. When she was still unable to produce a son, she was so sad that she wept almost always. Finally, when she was able to give birth to a son, it was believed that she was able to restore her dignity. Together with this, she has also restored her position in the household as a wife replacing the concubine’s role. â€Å"The senior’s wife dignity was from this point on restored, and all were unanimous in her praise. ‘Fortune’s caught up with her now,’ they agreed. She herself was very clear and now she was fully entitled to make demands[xiv].†This means that the fulfillment of the obligation is the only factor why she enjoyed that position. When the son died, she went back to her original demise. The death of the son even further caused the demise and the fall of the entire family when her husband died or committed suicide in the river. In this kind of situation, the woman’s reason for living is reduce to her functions and not to her essence as a living being. The story is a commentary of two things. First, women’s roles in the household are always upheld to the extent that it becomes the very essence of her existence. Second, the man can do whatever he pleases and can alienate the woman as long he wanted provided that she is unable to fulfill her responsibilities. The demise of the woman will have to result to the fall of the whole family which is a reaffirmation of the secret power that the woman has in the family which is seldom appreciated and recognized. Another story entitled the Slaves’ Mother by Rou Shi as mentioned earlier is also a commentary on how a woman is expected to fulfill her responsibilities both as a wife and a producer of an heir. However, the story added another element to the role of the woman, that is, breadwinning. But everything still boils down to her obligation to provide an heir to another man. The wife’s predicament in this story is different from the first story in the sense that she is not fertile to produce nothing but daughters. Her demise lies in the fact that her husband cannot earn a living because of his disease. This shifts the burden of breadwinning to the wife which was likewise left without a choice. This story is a commentary on the role of the wife to the household as different to the prescribed as far as it is in relation to his original husband. Instead of just being a wife, the woman is attributed a different role, that is, to earn a living for the husband and the child. In the words of the husband: â€Å"There is nothing for it. If we go on this way we’ll even be selling our little cooking pots before long. Looks as though you’ll have to provide the solution. No use your staying and starving with me.[xv]† This is a blunt admission on the part of the man that he can no longer support the family which is supposed to be his responsibility. In this sense, the role of the woman is uplifted to a higher level than the man but is still hinged unto the main obligations that a woman should take part in as the society. But this does not last for very long because the woman was still restricted to her traditional role as a wife in her second husband’s household. She was still expected to produce a son which she was able to accomplish. However, even with this, she was still brought to her failure by losing both sons away from her. When she gave birth to the second son, she was longing for the first. When she was finally with the firs son, she was longing for the second. This can be explained through the previous line of thought already mentioned earlier. The very essence of a woman’s role has become the very essence of her existence. Without the fruits of his responsibilities which are her sons, she cannot survive. Her worth is measured through her ability to produce an heir. In the story, even if the woman has successfully undergone the responsibility in an easy manner, still she lost both sons. The firs son was lost because she was not able to take care of him due to her being away from her. The second son was lost because he was simply not destined to be hers since she was just a second wife. Secondly, the authority of the first husband is also evident as she was unable to defy his orders when he ordered she had to be sold to another man for the family to be able to eat. This is another factor to the fall of the woman in the story. It is evident that everything the husband told her is a matter of compliance on the part of the wife. She was willing to leave her two-year old son just to fulfill the orders of the husband. She was willing to endure the pain of giving birth to another child because her husband told her so. Even at the end of the story, the husband was still very authoritative. â€Å"Neither she nor her husband spoke. As night fell his drooping head straightened up and she said: ‘Cook us a meal’[xvi].†