Saturday, August 31, 2019

An explanation of the strain and cultural criminology theories and the criminal elements Essay

The fast-changing society is demanding improvement of the existing legal frameworks each and every day. Indisputably, this is considerably challenging the decisions made by policymakers and more especially the judiciary sector. The challenge is more intensified by the way we define the defendant, victim, and penalty imposed for any crime committed. The underlying problem is that there exist various cultural norms and natural law; which significantly differ with constitutional requirements. In other words, legal procedures are not sufficient in providing criminal facts that can help us clearly understand the criminal elements mentioned above. Nevertheless, many scholars in the field of criminology such as Robert K. Merton and Keith Hayward now believes we can rely upon the strain and cultural criminology theories. Inarguably, the relationship existing between the two theories goes beyond our expectation, more especially when analyzing any criminology case. In fact, many people have be en convinced it would be appropriate if policymakers integrate some of the facts unrevealed by these theories when making or amending the criminal laws. The paper offers a detailed explanation of the two methods and more importantly, how they can be applied in the criminal case study of Mr. Heffernan convicted of the crime of cultivating cannabis plant which is an illegal plant and supply of the same plant products as drugs to the community. The case took place in the district court, New South Wales and has since sounded the trumpet over how the proceedings were unraveling the case that Mr. Heffernan was convicted with. This will be discussed along with the criminal elements and criminal facts which were evident in the case. Strain theory argues that when an individual is pressurized by the community or by the factors in his environment, the pressure overwhelms him which forces him to satisfy his cultural inequalities and material requirements by engaging in crime as stated by (Agnew, 2001, p319) The crime, in this case, is a subject to the strain that oversees a high level of pressure that the victim cannot bear the burden of. There are numerous forms of stress best explained by GST. The diverse forms of strain do not exclude financial requirements. The fear may force one into committing a crime that he never intended. Merton in his strain theory argues that it is only a small margin of the people who face stress end up committing crimes. The group that is involved in offenses that emanate from the strain from external forces is seen as deviant since they view the world as if there exists no other solution for their problems. Morten argues that the group is then forced into crime despite the fact that it is against their will. Cultural criminology theory, however, presents a different view of such an instance. It argues that the individual rather enjoys the self-fulfilling feeling that comes about with being involved in criminal activity. The theory explains that when the personal gains the social requirements that he or she could have otherwise not achieved legally, they are left with a sense of insecurity while others feel self-fulfilled and okay when they have their requirements fulfilled. According to Presdee, (2003) Cultural criminology is distinctively conjectural, procedural and domineering slant that places criminals, cases and the control mechanism in the context of culture Linking the theory to the case of Heffernan to both methods, strain theory argues that the convicted was involved in the crime due to the strain that he was facing.   It is evident that he as the criminal was suffering from an extraordinarily high degree of anxiety that he could have otherwise avoided if he had a well-paying job if the parents were not sick if his wife had no medical complications and if he was not unwell. On the other hand, cultural criminology argues that the occurrence of the crime was purely projected from the nature of the community the offender comes from as stated by (Ferrell et al., 2004). This, therefore, makes the community to be viewed as the actual cause of the crime due because the factors that led to the offense against which Mr. Heffernan is convicted are subject to the same community. The offender presents various evidence to the jury that when analyzed helped, in coming up with a valid judgment. The case presented states that the offender is a vict im of the drugs misuse and trafficking laws which inhibit one from growing plants that are otherwise termed as illegal. It also prohibits the supply of the same to the community. Mr. Heffernan was caught with 32kgs of cannabis leaves that are more than the monetary amount which is said to be 25 kilograms as stated by (Cerdà ¡ et al., 2012, p22). He had surpassed a commercial margin which otherwise inevitably presents the idea of the sale of the same to the community. He was rather much more cooperative by taking the police to the ranch where he grew the plant. The evidence was based on the idea that the man was found in the hold of a few bags of the leaves, showed where he grew the leaves and accepted to be the only person involved with the same. Evidence presented before the jury was photographs of these bags of leaves and the plant as well as the $1400 that was in his custody. The offender argues that he has been working on a farm for over 33 years and in his work life, he has been a victim of many injuries which have presented themselves as a limiting factor to the type and the amount of work that he can be engaged in evidenced by the numerous medical rec ords submitted to the coat regarding the same. His wife’s letter also backs up the issue since its content explains how those injuries have impacted negatively on their lives and the lives of their kids. This is seen as one of the strains that the convicted is battling with that could have otherwise presented to be the cause of the crime as stated by (Agnew, 2007, p319). The offender also claims that his family has been haunted by a trail of illnesses beginning with his mother who is suffering from breast cancer and osteoarthritis. His father is also suffering from a heart disease and osteoarthritis. He has diabetes and has been needing insulin to survive bearing in mind that his wife also has health conditions that make Mr. Heffernan the only breadwinner. This trail of illnesses presents themselves as another form of strain that led to the unusual character of the victim. An aggregate of such issues may result in so much pressure that needs a person with an unyielding personality to handle. While this is seen as strain, the cultural criminology finds it as social factors which when linked caused the occurrence of the crime. This presents the social and the crime as distinctively of a parallel nature. He is also faced with some more pressure of taking care of their 14 years high school kid and the younger one in primary education. The family had just married a year ago which rather increases the commitments of the breadwinner. The offender’s family has been selling their property which was around $80000 and has now depreciated to around $60000. His house is also being mortgaged at $70000, and this would render the family homeless. He argues that it is due to this pressure that he decided to engage in this criminal act. The jury well understands the pressure that the offender is facing pointing out that an offender is a man of substance whose life has not been presented as a threat to any criminal record. The only criminal record that exists seems baseless to make an overall conclusion that the man is a criminal. Evidence presented by  Ã‚   Mr. P. Harper, the offender’s defendant. The evidence is full of commendations for the man. This evidence is based on the peopl e who know Mr. Heffernan stating that the individual’s behaviors have been outstanding, something that even the judge recognizes by saying that Mr. Heffernan is a man of excellent character in the argument number 11 0f the case. The case presents itself from a criminal act that has been catalyzed by the excessive pressure faced by the convicted by strain theory which recognizes the existence of such anomalies in individual’s life when faced with extreme pressure. The issue that revolves around the life of the convicted is a monetary issue. Money, in this case, could have been the solution to all his problems since if he had enough of it, he could have saved his parent’s property from being sold. He could also have been able to take care of his sick relatives, his sick wife and cater for the life of the kids who are still in school. He could also have not gone to the extent of growing and distributing cannabis which is the state’s laws and the drugs misuse and trafficking act of 1985. The judge recognizes all the burdens that the convicted has to bear in his life considering that he is 51 and has to take care of all this pressure. About GST and the reasons that the convicted gives regardi ng the case he has been charged with, there were a few goals that the convicted was unable to meet. His desire to cater to his family and his parents and the desires to have a well-paying job dragged him to committing this crime. The unfolding circumstances are in line with the arguments of strain theory. Cultural criminology which seeks to understand crime in the context of culture is inevitably applicable in the case. The crime was subject to subcultures which revolve around what the community around the offender does and the rules that exist governing this particular crime. The rules governing drug and substance abuse have given guidelines on the judgment against the convicted depending on the nature and the extent of the committed crime. In a nutshell, it is the society that leads to the development of the rules that exist against the offenses revolving around drug and substance abuse. The occupation of the offender and the circumstances revolving around his life which led him to commit the crime are part and puzzle of the culture and community. As strain theory argues that the crime that was committed was subjected to the pressure of the life of the convicted, cultural criminology sees it as just another culture of various subcultures that may have led to the crime. Growing of Cannabis and distributing it to the public is considered to be a crime since there are rules against it as stated by (Reuter, 2010). If the drug had to be distributed to the community, the general impact on the youths would have been dire since this is the most likely group to the issue. As such, the convicted is seen to have been an agent of community destruction since he was a man of age and a parent. He is seen to have not minded about the lives of the other kids in the community and committed the crime for monetary gain. The strain theory comes about to argue that withstanding the pressure of the life the convicted was facing needed him to have looked for an alternative way of getting money. The convicted argues that he had complications regarding his health and that he was nearing his retirement age. He was forced to grow cannabis after ordering seeds from the United Kingdom which he later planted. It is the same marijuana that was harvested and packed before it was confiscated by the police. The theory gives out a clear argument that the man had small means of supporting his family using whatever he was gaining. This case is brought out clearly by the fact that the convicted had no previous criminal records and that his life was clean therefore it is due to what seemed to be a sort of excessive pressure that led him to commit the crime. On the other hand, cultural criminology makes the mere mention of cannabis a criminal activity where any activity that is associated with the drug has been criminalized. With the building of a belief that this activity is already a crime, the theory argues that rules that forbid it are developed ensuring that those who are associated wi th cannabis are taken into justice without considering any argument or reasons behind the act. With all the associated facts and evidence having been presented, Mr. Harper claims that the case on which the offender has been convicted with is not a drug trafficking case since it was planned as a one-time business. The pressure under which the convicted was suffering from forcing him to establish a cannabis plantation which he prepared to sell only once and increase the value of the ranch. This was one of the strain factors that made him respond to the pressure by involving himself in the crime. The judge, however, argues that it is irresponsible for a man with a family to release cannabis of a monetary amount to the society which would impact negatively on the lives of the youths as stated by (Lowinson, 2005). The judgment against both crimes was supposed to be ten years for the crime of growing cannabis and 15 years for trafficking.   The judge at the end of it all understands the pressure that the convicted was facing and gives him a sentence of two and a half years. The strain theory gives out a sense of reasoning and weighing of matters such that the degree of pressure was duly recognized by the jury. The cultural criminology theory, on the other hand, views the crime generally as breaking the law that originated from the same issue. It argues that the moral standards of the community which harbors the roots of the law have declined. The argument here is that the community from which the convicted comes from and the crime that was committed is viewed as one and the same thing. With the weak empirical evidence in support of the strain theory, the presented arguments were not sufficient to ensure that the convicted was set free. Rather it just explains the problems that the law class individuals are facing without taking into consideration of the larger picture of the community and the white collar crimes as stated by (Aseltine et al., 2000, p256). Crimes in such levels are the ones that decapitate the community. The theory deals with individuals rather than the community on which the crime and the criminals thrive. These issues are well explained by the cultural criminology theory which does not only just present its arguments from a particular line or level of crimes. It digs into every crime be it white collar or any other sort of the offense. Conclusion The case presented above shows how strain can cause various crimes. The arguments put forward to show that some forms of tension can be so haunting such that the victim ends up being involved illegal activities that end up bringing peace to the life of the victim. The judge, however, takes into consideration the strain that the convicted is facing, and from this, a valid judgment is given. As the strain theory views this crime as a result of pressure, the cultural criminology sees it as the larger picture of the nature of the community from which the convicted comes from. However, the theories try to explain the kind of judgment that is passed as not usual from the rest since consideration depending on the prevailing circumstance is taken note of. Reference Agnew, R., 2001. Building on the foundation of general strain theory: Specifying the types of strain most likely to lead to crime and delinquency. Journal of research in crime and delinquency, 38(4), pp.319-361. Agnew, R., 2007. Pressured into crime: An overview of general strain theory. Aseltine Jr, R.H., Gore, S. and Gordon, J., 2000. Life stress, anger and anxiety, and delinquency: An empirical test of general strain theory. Journal of Health and Social Behavior, pp.256-275. Cerdà ¡, M., Wall, M., Keyes, K.M., Galea, S. and Hasin, D., 2012. Medical marijuana laws in 50 state: investigating the relationship between state legalization of medical marijuana and marijuana use, abuse, and dependence. Drug and alcohol dependence, 120(1), pp.22-27. Chan, J.B., 1997. Changing police culture: Policing in a Multicultural Society. Cambridge University Press. Ferrell, J., Hayward, K., Morrison, W., and Presdee, M. eds., 2004. Cultural criminology unleashed. Routledge. Lowinson, J.H. ed., 2005. Substance abuse: A comprehensive textbook. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. Mazerolle, P., Piquero, A.R. and Capowich, G.E., 2003. Examining the links between strain, situational and dispositional anger, and crime further specifying and testing general strain theory. Youth & Society, 35(2), pp.131-157. Presdee, M., 2003. Cultural criminology and the carnival of crime. Routledge. Reuter, P., 2010. Marijuana legalization: what can be learned from other countries. Baltimore, MD: RAND Drug Policy Research Center, University of Maryland.

Friday, August 30, 2019

Naming Ceremony

The Naming Ceremony of James Kofi Owusu-Ansah On February 21st 2009, I was invited to a naming ceremony at the Martin’s West Hall at Security Boulevard. It was for a three months old boy. Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Owusu- Ansah were the couple hosting the event. They are from the Akan tribe in Ghana, West Africa. The baby-naming ceremony or Out-dooring is the first of many life-cycle rituals performed in the Akan culture throughout a person's life. The Akan do not name a child until a child's been alive for seven days.The feeling is that the baby night be a spirit who has come to look at the world and then go back. After a child is born, according to tradition, the mother and child are usually kept inside for at least seven days. There is no big hoopla or big excitement about this baby for seven days. In fact, if the child should pass away before the seventh day, there is no mourning for that child. If the child lives for seven days, then it is felt that the child has come to stay an d be a part of the community.There was quite a crowd of big names of Ghanaians in the community and Dr Kwesi Mfume was among those seated at the High Table. There was a priest from the church the family attends, an appointed linguist who presented and interpreted the naming process to the guests at the ceremony. There was an elder who was the uncle of Mr. Owusu-Ansah. Traditionally, the child's name is given by one of the elders of the family. The first name is usually the day of the week on which the child was born and in this case the child was born on a Monday so he was called Kofi.The second name is something specific, and personal about the child, such as something about the birthing experience, or an ancestor's name, and since they were Christians the parents named him James, and the third name is the family's name, Owusu -Ansah. The priest said a prayer asking blessings for all who were gathered, especially for the baby. The gods and ancestors are asked to protect and guide t his child, to see that the child has the things that are needed for a good life and to help the child become a positive member of the community.The child, the father, the mother, and the godparents face the crowd. Since it was a boy the godfather had to present the baby to the crowd. The godfather lifts the child three times from the ground into the air to introduce the child to the ancestors and to the gods and says, today we show the child who sojourns with us to the morning star. † So we show the child to the earth, to the ancestors, to the heavens, and to the community, and ask for blessings for the child. The child was told what is expected of him, by responding to his name; respect his parents, elders of the society.He is told not to lie, cheat and be a responsible person in society . The main ceremony is over and the rest of the evening was full of dancing, eating and drinking, giving the baby gifts which is normally money. I was so impressed by the whole function becau se I never expected the function to be so traditional like it was back home although instead of seven days old James Kofi Owusu –Ansah was three months old, and the Americans who were invited were so comfortable and some even participated in the cultural dances.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Chemistry Report on Explosives

Chemistry Report on Explosives Chemistry Report on Explosives What is meant byoxidation and show how oxidation reactions are used to cause explosions. Oxidation is the term used for the combinationof a substance with oxygen, or in general any reaction where an atom ormolecule loses electrons. This can be shown as: C (s) + O2 (g) CO (g) S=solid, g=gas Gunpowderor black powder is the oldest explosive we know. It is made up of a mixture ofpotassium nitrate (also known as saltpetre or KNO 3 ), charcoal, andsulfur in different proportions. When gunpowder is manufactured today, it ismade with the ratios 7.5:1.5:1 by mass (2). Bothgunpowder and dynamite have within them substances which are readily availableto oxidation. The oxygen which is used for the oxidation is an intrinsic partof the mixture, and is held within them in the same manner that oxygen isstored in the chemical potassium chlorate. Whengunpowder is ignited, this oxidation is extremely rapid, and a large volume ofgas is produced. The gasses are under ex treme pressure, which causesthem to expand rapidly. Heat is produced causing the gas particles toaccelerate, creating even more pressure. If the gas expands faster than thespeed of sound, this creates a shockwave. The pressure produced by the gassesis what causes parts of the bomb (shrapnel) to be propelled far and wide atvery high speeds(1). Thespeed at which something oxidises is dependant on its potential to interactwith oxygen. The greater number of unstable electrons that a molecule or atomhas to lose, the quicker it will be oxidised (3). b)  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Give an account of thedevelopment of chemical compounds for use in explosives. Describe theadvantages of each new chemical explosive over its predecessors, and describehow the explosives were adapted to make them safer and more effective. (9marks) It is thought that the firstexplosive discovered was ‘black powder’, originating in 10th Century China. Itwas used for ceremonial fireworks. In Europe, 1242 saw the formula for blackpowder being published by Roger Bacon. The refinement of the substance closelyfollowed after the gun was invented by Berthold Schwartz in 1300. Around thistime, black powder was being used for removal of rocks, the teqnique was knownas fire setting, but this was replaced with blasting at the beginning of the17th Century. There are records of blasting in America from 1773 (4). The production of black powderwas rapidly increased during the American Revolution. By the turn of thecentury, the commercial production of the explosive had grown from 25 millionto 100 million (2). In 1846, Nitroglycerin wasdiscovered by Ascanio Sobrero. Nitroglycerin plasticizes collodion which is aform of nitrocellulose to form blasting gelatin. This is a very powerfulexplosive. The discovery of this action led to the advancement of ballistite, thefirst double-base propellant and a precursor of cordite. Alfred Nobel built a factory toproduce it in 1861 in Sweden. An advantage of nitroglycer in was its massiveexplosive power, but it was very difficult to transport as it is a liquid,which used black powder to ignite it. It could also freeze and had toxic fumeswhich caused severe headaches (5). In 1867, Nobel accidentallyinvented Dynamite and he went on to patent his mixture. It was a greatdiscovery, being more powerful than black powder, with a higher detonationvelocity which made it much more effective breaking rock as it not only moved,but broke apart the rock

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

Exploring How Constructions of Power Operate in and Among Communities Essay

Exploring How Constructions of Power Operate in and Among Communities and Institutions - Essay Example In Asia, on the other hand, another continent where the world's poor may be found, 432,000 people became newly infected, raising the total number of infected people to 4.8 million. While there have been some increase in the number of HIV/AIDS victims in the more prosperous parts of the world like Europe and the United States, the increase in the developing countries are sharper and therefore more alarming. HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. It is a virus that infects human cells and the virus grows and reproduces by feeding of the nutrients of healthy human cells. HIV is the virus that leads to AIDS which stands for Acquired Immunodeficiency Virus, and in this case, the body's immune system breaks down and can no longer ward off infections that come in. These infections that come in are called "opportunistic infections" because they take advantage of a deteriorating immune system. The virus can be transmitted via sexual intercourse - this could be vaginal, anal or oral - whether in heterosexual or homosexual relations, sharing needles or syringes or infection during pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding. There are plenty of global initiative... The initiatives are in the nature of prevention advocacy - wherein grassroots level education is being promoted and awareness is being pushed so that governments are pressured to do something concrete for their people who are suffering from the illness - as well as curative strategies to democratize health care and medication. One such initiative is the amFAR or the Foundation for AIDS Research. In its website (www.amfar.org), the organization described itself as follows: Founded in 1985, amfAR is dedicated to ending the global AIDS epidemic through innovative research. With the freedom and flexibility to respond quickly to emerging areas of scientific promise, amfAR plays a catalytic role in accelerating the pace of HIV/AIDS research and achieving real breakthroughs. amfAR-funded research has increased our understanding of HIV and has helped lay the groundwork for major advances in the study and treatment of HIV/AIDS. Since 1985, amfAR has invested $260 million in its mission and has awarded grants to more than 2,000 research teams worldwide. The amFAR has helped by funding research critical to the development of essential medication that has led to the reduction of HIV/AIDS cases, such as protease inhibitors, Fuzeon and maraviroc. For prevention, it has also funded research for new technology to prevent the spread of the virus and supported programs to provide sterile syringes, which would help reduce AIDS intravenous transmission. It has also funded education programs, most notably in Nepal, and in the Asia Pacific region. In legislative work, the organization also has played an important law in the drafting of AIDS prevention legislation by the

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

Suitability of Yemen for Multinational Business Term Paper

Suitability of Yemen for Multinational Business - Term Paper Example Yemen is the Unitary Presidential Republic or the Parliamentary Republic located in the Middle East with Oman (east) and Saudi Arabia (west) as its common border countries. It has a total land area of 527,968 sq km (203,849 sq mi), and it is the 50th largest country in the world (â€Å"Middle East: Yemen†). As of 2011, the total population of Yemen is 24,133,492 (70% are Muslims or Arab), which is number 49 in the world ranking. Yemen’s type of government is the Presidential Republic, and it has a 2-part legislature (House of Representatives & Shura/Consultative Council) with an executive branch headed by President Ali Abdullah Saleh (head of government & state) and Prime Minister Mohammed Mujawar. The country’s election is generally held every after 6 years for the lower house and 7 years for the President; however, many allegations have aroused regarding the poor regulation of the electoral system, which is considered unfair and fraudulent in many grounds. â₠¬Å"Jews, Christians, and Hindus, the non-Muslim indigenous minorities, may vote but according to a 2001 Election Committee decision, they cannot hold elected office† (â€Å"International Religious†). The Yemeni Constitution is according to Shariah or Islamic law; thus, many issues about religious discriminations and human rights violations have emerged, which lead to violent protests and demonstrations. The uprising against the government of President Saleh had started in early 2011 when the Yemenis had asked him to resign after 21 years in the presidency since the reunification in 1990. The people have demanded Saleh to step down because the country is not well-managed under his administration as shown in the country’s high unemployment record (11%), deep poverty, and government corruption. In fact, there are only 57% and 39% of Yemenis believed that the government has the capacity to improve good governance, peace, and poverty level (â€Å"Yemen Ranked 106â₠¬ ). Since the violent protests and demonstrations, the security and political setting are deteriorating. This made Yemen a deeply divided and poorest nation in various world indices, particularly in the Arab world (Bakri and Goodman). The Yemenis are highly discouraged on their government’s position about environmental preservation, particularly in the country’s oil resources and freshwater. There are several environmental regulations that have been enacted to govern hazardous wastes, soil erosion, desertification, carbon emission, and many more, but these are not properly observed and seriously implemented by the government. Culture. In every investment, customs and behaviors of people are necessary factors of success because these will determine if the company’s domestic product/services are acceptable in the new market. Figure 1 shows Yemen’s national culture using Hofstede's cultural dimensions. Figure 1: Index Scores of Hofstede’s Dimensions for Selected Islamic Countries (2009) Source: (Eune and Lee 1217) The figure illustrates that Yemen is a low power country, which indicates that there is fairness in the distribution of power. Also, a high score in individualism gives more importance to personal choice and not in the group. Furthermore, Yemen has a moderate masculinity score, which indicates that the society is focused on future achievements and motivated by success in terms of money, material things, and works. Yemen has a weak uncertainty avoidance, which means that people are prepared to take risks because they are comfortable in ambiguous situations.

Monday, August 26, 2019

Runic Alphabets in Scandinavia Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Runic Alphabets in Scandinavia - Essay Example Sadly, the meanings of these symbols and their purpose are now lost. Like runes, they were believed to be used for divination and they may have strongly influenced the magical function of later runic alphabets (Smith 1996). Historians and anthropologists are uncertain about the early uses of runes. They may have been used as actual characters for writing. However, the name rune suggests that they were also used as mystical signs or symbols which possess powerful magic. Early Germanic literature bear testimony to the magical character of runes. The Edda, a series of poems, and folk songs to these modern days attest to the influence that runes have on humanity. In fact, the supernatural powers of runes are said to have not only influence, but can overcome natural and physical laws. Runes can summon rain or violent thunderstorms. They can break chains and shackles, or bind men into them. They can heal illness or cause someone to suffer disease. They could raise the dead from their graves. Warriors can become invincible with the help of runes, and cause his weapon to inflict mortal wounds to the enemy. Runes can make men mad, as they can also protect men from the deceitful designs of others. Runes are generally considered as of divine origin, since Odin himself, as related in the Edda, had to sacrifice his person in order to learn the secrets of the runes. Odin was also the foremost runemaster, according to Germanic literature, and was known to have used the stones to exercise personal revenge. Simultaneous with the magical use of runes, there is also evidence that they were used as a means of communication. These messages may have been popular or used in secret. Saga of Egill Skallagrmsson, his daughter Thorger apparently carved the Sunatorrek -- a beautiful poem on a runic staff or runakefli -- where Egill laments the death of his son. Stone monuments are also lasting evidence of the roles played by runes in olden times. These are more common in England and Scandinavia. Some of these monuments simply bear the name of a fallen warrior. Others relate his life and exploits. Since these runic inscriptions were often found in England and Scandinavia, it could be inferred that the use of runes for such purpose may be a later development (Ward & Waller, ed.). II. Discussion A. General Development and Transformation of Runes Runes are also known as Futharks, named for the first six letters in their alphabet, namely, F, U, Th, A, R, and K. The Elder Futhark has 24 letters, the Younger Futhark has 16 letters. Futhark was brought into England by the Anglo-Saxons and transformed into the 33-letter Futhorc, which accommodated the phonetic changes which occurred in Old English (AncientScripts.com). The runes of Scandinavia can be classified into three periods. They are also not related to the Futhorc of the Anglo-Saxon. The first period dates from around 175 A.D. to the 8th century. However, some evidence show that the period may have started much earlier, as far back as 50 A.D. This period is referred to as the Primitive Norse, and Christianity had not yet reached that far north. The language was called Primitive Old Norse for the Nordic Inscriptions and were in Germanic or Gothic languages in lands farther south. The language of this

Sunday, August 25, 2019

Risk Measurement Technique Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Risk Measurement Technique - Essay Example Risk Management is a separate discipline that looks into all the possible aspects and reasons which could count as a risk in a particular background. The aim of risk management is to preempt any incident that might take place, and it focuses on the principle of prevention rather than correction. Risks are of different types, there could be risks towards the financial side of an organization, or the data contained by the department, or the risk of loss of experts and personnel due to various reasons (Hopkin,2012). Risk management techniques focus on a couple of simple and basic questions which pertain to the identification of source of risk. Once the source is determined, their impacts are evaluated, in case of extremely busy lines as is the case in few industries, prioritization is performed, and after that the probable solutions are devised. Various techniques are being used in the field of risk management, however the first and foremost step towards risks mitigation is its identification; it is a normally being said that solution to the problem lies in identifying the problem first.( Ziegler, pg 255, 2005) The same mechanism follows in the case of risk. A proper risk management approach should be adopted. Internationally and professionally there are a large number of measurement techniques for risk. After the step of identification, analysis is conducted which mainly includes understanding the nature and level of severity of a particular risk. All possible impacts and dimensions of the risk are studied and their possible impacts are studied as well. It is a bottom up approach that performs the evaluation keeping in mind all the possible factors that could create any risk. It looks into the processes, products and individuals which could generate any risk. Its strength is the identification of the areas which could be prone to failure and risk, and based on the knowledge, it enables taking

Inflation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Inflation - Essay Example Inflation defined in this way refers to monetary inflation, which is the difference between the growth in money supply and the growth in availability of goods and services in the economy (Siegl, 2009). There are various measures of inflation, but most commonly, inflation is measured by using Consumer Price Index (CPI). The CPI refers to price of a basket of commodities and services that an average customer buys and changes in this index allows economists to study the rise and fall of the general price level in the economy which helps them to study the rate of inflation in the economy. In the latter half of 2012, Bank of England Chief Economist, Spencer Dale, had warned that the average standard of living for the Britons would fall in 2013. The country (UK) is still on the recovery phase from the shock of the financial crisis, this process is a slow and painful one. With a high unemployment rate of 7.8% and wage growth struggling to keep up with inflation, 2013 is looking to be anothe r year of hardship. Causes of inflationary pressure Inflation refers to the upwards movement of the general price level in economy. Prices are determined in the free market economy through the interaction of the sellers and the buyers in the economy. Most economists consider that the inflationary pressure in the economy is caused from either the demand side (demand pull inflation) or the supply side (cost push inflation) pressure on the equilibrium condition in the market (P. J. Welch and G. F. Welch, 2009). Demand pull inflation In long run, when the total output in economy moves towards the full employment output, the economy operates nearly at the full capacity. At full capacity, the economy produces the maximum amount of output by utilizing the available factors of production and the production level cannot be expanded easily. Figure 1: Demand Pull inflation (Source: Pettinger, 2013) At the other end, consumers in the economy are themselves the workers and they are earning more since output level is high at this stage. Hence, there is high consumer demand for services and commodities. This demand pressure from households coupled with the near full capacity production by the producers in the economy triggers inflationary pressure in the economy (P. J. Welch and G. F. Welch, 2009). Cost push inflation Inflationary pressure also occurs when cost to sellers of goods and services rise. Any source of cost to businesses is also a source of increase in rise in prices. Cost to producers and sellers are transferred to buyers partially or wholly and they through rise in prices. Figure 2: Demand Pull inflation (Source: P. J. Welch and G. F. Welch, 2009) Upwards pressure is created on prices if costs of labour, fuel, raw materials and other factors of production rise. At times firms’ attempt to enhance profit in certain industries increases prices and creates inflationary pressure (P. J. Welch and G. F. Welch, 2009). Inflation in UK Between 1989 till present (20 13), inflation rate in the UK averages at 2.81%. In May 2013, the inflation rate was 2.70% (Trading Economics, 2013). The inflation rates between 2011 and 2013 is shown in the following figure. Figure 3: Inflation rates in UK 2011-2013 (Source: Trading Economics, 2013) Demand side policies to combat inflation The most important tool to control inflationary pressure in the UK has been monetary policy changes. In the UK, the Bank of England adopts a monetary policy that helps

Saturday, August 24, 2019

Reconstructing gender Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 2

Reconstructing gender - Essay Example The concept of sexual schizophrenia has neutralized the demeaning male attitude towards women due to the female gender’s engagement in sports. Women are currently not viewed as objects of sexuality since they have gripped a stable position in the modern society by playing equal roles as their male counterparts. As a result, women are not only viewed as cheerleaders in sports but actual players in every sporting competition (Disch, 2008). Women tend to have different reactions towards the alleged male attitude towards sexuality. Most women in the youth age consider the male attitude towards them as an appraisal while those in the mature age find it diminishing. As a woman, Sabo’s description of male sexuality is true since women are viewed as stereotypes of the physical concept of sexuality. Pornography is the overt presentation of sexual acts in films as well as printed material. Robert Jensen provides his life experience with pornography which explains how the porn industry reinforces and upholds the patriarchy. According to Jensen, women exist to provide their male counterparts with sexual excitement. This portrays that women are only used as sexual objects to promote arousing feeling in pornographic materials (Disch, 2008). Robert Jensen argues that in most pornographic films upholds and reinforces the Patriarchy by the introduction of anal sex. In his argument, he explains the concept behind this act being men’s, revenge to women’s bitchy characters. This shows that the female role is overpowered by the male position in the society thus portraying patriarchy. The introduction of multiple sexual partners also displays a sense of patriarchy as in most pornographic films; a man is given more than one woman to relate with sexually. This encourages polygamy in which is based on the male dominance according to the African society. Patriarchy promotes gender imbalance in the current

Friday, August 23, 2019

Human Rights and English law (LLB), Discuss why it is that freedom of Essay

Human Rights and English law (LLB), Discuss why it is that freedom of expression is widely considered to be a fundamental human right, and the extent, if any, t - Essay Example ring protection is not questioned, the degree of immunity accorded to it is a frequently debated issue insofar as restrictions regarding its protection are concerned, challenging its character as a fundamental right. Given the issues surrounding the freedom of expression, this essay will therefore argue that the freedom of expression is a fundamental human right, whose protection, although guaranteed, is not absolute such that restrictions must be placed to ensure that its exercise is in accordance with the laws of the land and the responsibilities required of citizens. The freedom of expression is recognised as among the â€Å"human rights and fundamental freedoms [that are] the birthright of all human beings† (cited in Smith, 2004, p. 1). Its fundamental character lies in its significance as a pillar of democratic society, and as a human right intimately connected with the exercise of individual life and liberty. As illustrated in Handyside v. United Kingdom1, the â€Å"[f]reedom of expression constitutes one of the essential foundations of [a democratic] society, one of the basic conditions for its progress and for the development of every man†, such that its protection is extended â€Å"not only to ‘information’ or ‘ideas’ that are favourably received or regarded as inoffensive or as a matter of indifference, but also to those that offend, shock or disturb the State or any sector of the population.† Hence, freedom of expression is a fundamental right, whose exercise is necessary for citizens to par ticipate in the democratic process and the functioning of society (Stone, 2004, p.1). On the other hand, the freedom of expression is also a human right whose exercise directly affects other fundamental human rights as recognised by the ECHR. Whereas Article 9 of the ECHR recognises the freedom of religion, the exercise of such freedom is incomplete if individuals are restricted in their expression of religious beliefs. Freedom of expression is therefore

Thursday, August 22, 2019

Tell Me About Blood Essay Example for Free

Tell Me About Blood Essay 1. Hematocrit is what measures the red blood cells in blood. Red blood cells are important for transporting iron and oxygen and for creating energy. If the red blood cell count is lower-than-normal it could indicate several diseases and problems within the body. It may be due to anemia, bleeding, destruction of red blood cells, leukemia, malnutrition, low iron, folate, vitamin B12 and vitamin B6 or overhydration. A bacterial infection causes white blood cells to increase, since they are the cells that attack and destroy the bacteria. As the white blood cells increase, red blood cells decrease. 2. All formed elements begin in red bone marrow as pluripotent stem cells. Pluri means several and these type of stem cells have the ability to turn into many different types of cells. For formed elements pluripotent cells reproduce in the bone marrow and become two different types of cells: myeloid stem cells and lymphoid stem cells. While myeloid stem cells complete development in the red bone marrow and create the majority of formed elements in the blood, lymphoid stem cells finish up in the lymphatic tissues of the body. From there lymphocytes are created and all formed elements, including lymphocytes, are swept into the blood stream to complete their jobs. However, lymphocytes divide once they leave the marrow, while other formed elements do not. 3. Erythropoiesis is the creation of red blood cells. The making of red blood cells (RBCs) starts in the red blood marrow with another cell called a proerythroblast. The proerythroblast is basically an immature red blood cell. As they mature they then become a reticulocyte. A reticulocyte is the middle, or â€Å"teenage,† stage of a RBC. One it fully matures it becomes an erythrocyte. The rate of RBC production is regulated by the percentage of reticulocytes versus RBC circulating. Erythropoiesis is controlled directly by the amount of oxygen carried to the kidneys. If the kidneys are not receiving enough oxygen to distribute to the rest of the body, it will release a hormone into the blood stream called erythropoietin, which signals the bone marrow to create more proerythroblasts. 4. If a person with type B blood were given type O blood in a transfusion, there would be no negative impact. Blood types are determined by antigens, or proteins on the surface of the blood cells. A person with type B blood has the antigen B, while a person with type O blood does not have any antigens present. Thus the term â€Å"universal donor.† With the antigens, we also carry antibodies, called agglutinins, which react  negatively with the A or B antigen. Blood type B contains the anti-A antibody. Since the type O blood does not carry either antigen, the agglutinin has nothing to attack if it was introduced into the body. 5. A. This WBC is a lymphocyte and its function is to fight viral infections and some leukemias. B. This WBC is a basophil and its function is to fight allergic reactions, leukemias, cancers and indicate hypothyroidism. C. This WBC is a monocyte and its function is to fight viral or fungal infections, tuberculosis, some leukemias and other chronic diseases. D. This WBC is a neutrophil and its function is to fight bacterial infections, burns, stress and inflammation. E. This WBC is an eosinophil and is function is to fight allergic reactions, parasitic infections and autoimmune diseases. 6. A person with a parasitic disease would have a higher level of leukocytes because they are the cells that combat the parasite. Leukocytes are white blood cells, which are used to fight a variety of infections. Eosinophils are specific to parasitic infections and they attack the parasite by releasing enzymes that destroy the invader. The count would be higher because they are battling the parasite and do not return to the blood stream once they leave. This is a normal reaction if there is an invader in the body. 7. Lymphocytes are responsible for the immune response against pathogens. Lymphocytes are continuously moving through the lymphoid tissues, lymph and blood. They only spend a few hours at a time in the blood and act as a first defense system. They are very effective in destroying bacteria and making their toxins inactive. 8. Prothrombinase is an enzyme that converts prothrombin, a plasma protein that is formed in the liver, into the enzyme thrombin. Thrombin then converts soluble fibrinogen, which is another liver protein, into insoluble fibrin. Fibrin is what forms the threads of the blood clot to stop bleeding. The main difference between the extrinsic and intrinsic pathways are that the extrinsic pathway occurs outside of the blood vessels while intrinsic occurs within the vessels. The extrinsic pathway occurs rapidly, with clotting occurring in seconds, while intrinsic takes several minutes and is more complex than the extrinsic pathway.

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

Secure Data Aggregration in Wireless Sensor Networks

Secure Data Aggregration in Wireless Sensor Networks 4. SYSTEM ENVIRONMENT Before programming can be built the framework in which it lives must be caught on. To fulfill this, general goal of the framework must be resolved; the part of fittings, programming, individuals, database, strategies and other framework components must be distinguished and operational prerequisites must be dissected, detailed, displayed, accepted and oversaw. These exercises are the establishment of framework designing. Framework examination is an essential movement that happens when we are building new data existing framework. It is important to invest extensive time to comprehend the framework and its issues. Once the framework examination is finished framework configuration begins. 4.1 Necessity Examination Necessity examination is the period of correspondence between the customer and the client. Necessity expectation and prerequisite determination are the real exercises performed amid the prerequisite investigation stage. Prerequisite examination serves to conquer any hindrance between level programming designation and programming configuration. It is the first specialized venture amid programming building methodology. Amid prerequisite investigation a module of the necessity, control stream, operational conduct and substance are made. This movement gives presentation of data and capacity that can be meant information compositional and procedural configuration. Necessity investigation builds up and finally finishes being developed of prerequisite particulars. The accompanying are the usefulness prerequisites and framework necessities relating to our task as a piece of necessity investigation. The following is the list of minimum requirements to run this package. 4.2 Hardware requirements: System :Pentium IV 2.4 GHz. Hard Disk:40 GB. Monitor:15 VGA Colour. Mouse:Logitech. Ram:256 Mb. 4.3 Software Requirements: Operating system :Windows XP Professional. Platform:JDK 1.5 and Above. IDE: Eclipse. Front End Java is an abnormal state, third era programming dialect like C, FORTRAN, Perl and numerous others. Java can be utilized to compose machine applications that crunch numbers, methodology words, play recreations and store information or do any thousands different things machine programmings can do. The unique thing about Java is that it permits you to compose extraordinary projects called Applets that can be downloaded from the web and played securely inside a web program. It additionally makes it conceivable to keep the framework infection free. As we all trust the maintainers of the different FTP documents to do the essential infection checking and not to post damaging programmings still a considerable measure of those infections escape everyones notice or potholes. We have no real way to check those projects for bugs or infections while downloading or running them. Java turns out to be productive in tackling this issue through its Applets. A Java applet cant keep in touch with your hard plate without your consent. Consequently Java keeps the framework from slamming. Java has a significant effect on the web. It stretches the universe of items which can move unreservedly in the internet. There are two general classifications of item transmitted between the server and the PC in a system. They are aloof data and dynamic, dynamic projects. Case in point, when we read an email, we are review latent information. In any case, a second kind of article can be transmitted to our machine i.e., a dynamic, self executing project. This project is a dynamic executor on the customer machine, yet is launched by the server. Case in point, a system may be given by the server to show appropriately the information which the server is sending. Element arranged projects present genuine issues in the zones of security and versatility. Java addresses these issues and in this manner opened the avenue to an energizing new manifestation of project called applet. Java is a programming dialect initially created by James Gosling at Sun Microsystems (which is presently a subsidiary of Oracle Corporation) and discharged in 1995 as a center part of Sun Microsystems Java stage. The dialect determines much of its linguistic structure from C and C++ yet has an easier article model and less low-level offices. Java applications are ordinarily accumulated to byte code (class document) that can run on any Java Virtual Machine (JVM) paying little mind to machine building design. Java is universally useful, simultaneous, class-based, and article arranged, and is particularly intended to have as few usage conditions as would be prudent. It is expected to let application designers compose once, run anyplace. Java is considered by a lot of people as a standout amongst the most compelling programming dialects of the twentieth century, and generally utilized from application programming to web application. The first and reference usage Java compilers, virtual machines, and class libraries were produced by Sun from 1995. As of May 2007, in agreeability with the particulars of the Java Community Process, Sun relicensed the vast majority of their Java innovations under the GNU General Public License. Others have likewise created option executions of these Sun innovations, for example, the GNU Compiler for Java and GNU Class way. Swing is a graphical client interface library for the Java SE stage. It is conceivable to point out an alternate look and feel through the pluggable look and feel arrangement of Swing. Clones of Windows, Gtk+ and Motif are supplied by Sun. Fruit additionally gives an Aqua search and feel for Mac OS X. Where former executions of these looks and feels may have been viewed as needing, Swing in Java SE 6 addresses this issue by utilizing more local GUI gadget drawing schedules of the hidden stages. This example Swing application creates a single window with Hello, world! inside: // Hello.java (Java SE 5) import javax.swing.*; public class Hello extends JFrame { public Hello() { set Default Close Operation(Window Constants.EXIT_ON_CLOSE); add(new J Label(Hello, world!)); pack(); } public static void main(String[] args) { new Hello().setVisible(true); } } The principal import incorporates the majority of the general population classes and interfaces from the javax.swing bundle. The Hello class augments the Jframe class; the Jframe class executes a window with a title bar and a nearby control. The Hello() constructor instates the edge by first calling the super class constructor, passing the parameter hi, which is utilized as the windows title. It then calls the setdefaultcloseoperation (int) strategy inherited from Jframe to set the default operation when the nearby control on the title bar is chosen to Windowconstants.exit_on_close. This causes the Jframe to be discarded when the edge is shut (rather than simply concealed), which permits the JVM to passageway and the system to end. Next, the format of the casing is situated to a Border layout; this advises Swing how to orchestrate the segments that will be added to the edge. A Jlabel is made for the string Hi, world! and the add(component) strategy inherited from the Container super class is called to add the mark to the edge. The pack() strategy inherited from the Window super class is called to size the window and lay out its substance. The principle ( ) technique is called by the JVM when the system begins. It instantiates another Hello casing and makes it be shown by calling the set visible(Boolean) technique inherited from the Component super class with the Boolean parameter genuine. When the casing is shown, leaving the principle system does not result in the project to end on the grounds that the AWT occasion dispatching string stays dynamic until the majority of the Swing top-level windows have been arranged. SWING IN JAVA: Swing Model/perspective plan: The perspective part of the MV outline is executed with a segment object and the UI object. The model part of the MV configuration is actualized by a model article and a change audience object. Swing is based on top of AWT and is completely composed in Java, utilizing AWTs lightweight part help. Specifically, dissimilar to AWT, t he construction modeling of Swing parts makes it simple to redo both their appearance and conduct. Parts from AWT and Swing can be blended, permitting you to add Swing backing to existing AWT-based projects. For instance, swing parts, for example, Jslider, Jbutton and Jcheckbox could be utilized as a part of the same system with standard AWT names, textfields and scrollbars. You could subclass the current Swing UI, model, or change audience classes without needing to reexamine the whole usage. Swing additionally can supplant these articles on-the-fly. 100% Java implementation of components Pluggable Look Feel Lightweight components Uses MVC Architecture Model represents the data View as a visual representation of the data Controller takes input and translates it to changes in data Three parts Component set (subclasses of JComponent) Support classes Interfaces In Swing, classes that speak to GUI segments have names starting with the letter J. A few samples are Jbutton, Jlabel, and Jslider. Inside and out there are more than 250 new classes and 75 interfaces in Swing — twice the same number of as in AWT. Java Swing class hierarchy The classJComponent, descended directly from Container, is the root class for most of Swing’s user interface components. Figure 4.3.1: Hierarchy of java Swing GITAMCSE Page:1

Tuesday, August 20, 2019

Tourism Development In Rome Tourism Essay

Tourism Development In Rome Tourism Essay The food; the original Italian cuisine, the weather, the habits, the Italian temperament of the people in Rome, represents a big part of the Italian culture. However, the city is a live market and sells from each attractions souvenirs, guided tours to the city or specific tour experiences, local products, to the airlines, the 100.000 beds ( from hostels to villas) and restaurants and bars a tourist would visit in order to feel like a local Roman. Furthermore, Rome first became a major artistic center during ancient Rome, due to the evolvement in architecture, painting, sculpture and mosaic work. Also, the city was influenced and inspired by the baroque, and Rome became the home of famous figures of the time; artists and architects, such as Bernini, Caravaggio, Carracci etc. This fact attracts people interested in art for the galleries and the museums. Metal-work, coin die and gem engraving, ivory carvings, figurine glass, pottery, and book illustrations are considered to be minor for ms of Roman artwork. Rome hosts the Cinecittà   Studios, the largest film and television production company in the Italian cinema, where a large number of the biggest Italian box office hits are filmed. Nowadays, many tourists visit the Dolce Vita city in order to see where some remarkably artistic jewels were filmed. Tourism Development in Rome The citys utter aim is to conserve the right balance between development and conservation. The effect of this planning approach is that focusing on enhancing Romes status of by governmental action for the tourism resources only, which may lead to new imbalances in the current level and potential of development of the urban/metropolitan region of Rome. The city has always been an important destination for international cultural and religious tourist flows, and for many decades such role has been almost unintentional as did not require specific planning measures given the importance of the amenities provided. In recent years, local government investments have promoted a tourism offer which is still strongly linked to the historical artistic value of the city center, also in the attempt to lengthen the average tourism stay. (as seen to Appendix 2) During the last decade there is a rapid development in the city tourism with a growth rate more than double, in contrast with the mass tourism. The city-breaks trips are already a fact in the international tourism. The city-break trips consists one of the most important tourism moves of the European metropolitan destinations, especially on weekends. The noticeable increase in the city tourism is related with the changes in lifestyle. Today people work harder, with larger working mobility in contrast to the past. They have less vacation days and the demand is focusing on more and short trips. In the same time, new growth perspectives were created by the abrupt development of low-budget airlines (Easyjet, Ryanair) More than 50% of those trips are by air and the 40% with really cheap flights. Moreover, the city-breaks are not affected by seasonality, which is a major problem for tourism. Rome was always a destination that attracted peoples attention. During the centuries Rome has been an Empire center, a religious focal point, a major archaeological hub and an artistic limelight. However, the popularity of the city had its shifts because of the social, financial or political circumstances. Eventually, all destinations enter the market maturity leading to a decline in tourists. The managers and the policy makers in order to prevent the tourist decline have to reposition the destination appeal. Nonetheless, Rome is not a mature destination. No matter how many shifts Rome had, it cannot be considered as a mature destination. In 2007, Rome was the 11th-most-visited city in the world, most visited in the European Union, and the most popular tourist attraction in Italy. Its historic center is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Monuments and museums such as the Vatican Museums and the Colosseum are amongst the worlds 50 most visited tourist destinations (the Vatican Museums receiving 4.2 million tourists every year) (see Appendix 3). In 1960 Rome hosted the Summer Olympics. The city also played host to the Eurovision Song Contest in 1991 and the MTV Europe Music Awards in 2004. Rome has been ranked currently by the Global Cities Index (GaWC in 2010) as a beta+ world city, with a score of 2.56 in the 28th position, falling down from its alpha- status in 2008 and being the highest-ranking city in Italy. Furthermore, Rome was in 2008, also ranked 15th out of all the cities of the world for global importance, mainly for cultural experience. Rome is also widely acknowledged as a world fashion capital. It has been ranked the worlds 4th most important center for fashion in the world (Capital, 2009) after Milan, New York and Paris. International and luxury fashion houses are headquartered or were founded in the city. However, Rome with a new branding marketing tries to be an emerging destination and to provide to the tourists something new. It is a de stination widely known for its history, the culture, the cuisine and the attractions. The difference between mature and emerging tourism; is that Rome reached the peak of its status and even if there were some years that the tourism income and arrival numbers were diminished, the image policy and the brand marketing strategy made Rome competitive again to its rivals; Paris and London. Rome attracts more tourists than any other Italian city. Type of Tourists It is supported that 12 million of tourists visit Rome. The most usual type of visitors Rome has is: anyone studying art history, architecture or archaeology in Italy or member countries for city-break trips. Also, sometimes school groups, art experts and collectors and fashion icons visit the city for educational, business reasons or shopping. Rome as one of the most romantic and picturesque city worldwide, attracts many couples, too, just like the religious tourism, due to the Vatican, the Catholic Church center. It is a destination that lures people of all generations and, social levels to the world famous Romes attractions. Apart from traditional tourism, Rome is also currently living a productive moment on the economic and social scale, and has operations that are typical of global cities, in that it can also attract tourism flows that are not essentially for holidays. According to a research (ESPON, 2006), Rome is classified as a metropolitan growth destination; a city for the mass tourism, competitive, and is connected with the ranks to the two European competitors of London and Paris. The Tourism Department of Rome and Lazio together with APTRL, the operating institution responsible for the actual promotion of the region, will attend the ATM with the tourist board for Italy at Arabian Travel Market. Furthermore, in 2008 the Italian government started The Second Tourist Centre project, in order to revolutionize the appeal and promotion campaign of the Rome area. The Capital will be able to diversify and boost its appeal. Through its Second Centre the Capital is aiming to propel the historic core of the city and to carve out a major role also in those corners of the market which had been rarely appreciated, such as, for example, trade fairs, tourism conferences, sports and recreational activities, archaeological sites, natural reserves, ports and airports. In these areas, they are focusing on the facilities. A variety of structures (theme parks and congress halls) will improve the image of the city looking to the needs and demands of every kind of traveler, from leisure-seekers to businessmen. It is a new-look Capital, offering a much broader range of entertainment and cultural attractions. Stakeholders and the Tourist System. Stakeholders are essential to a tourist destination, since they can influence the growth of an area. Stakeholders can be categorized in: the public sector, the private sector, voluntary sector, community and tourists. For the case of Rome, numerous stakeholders are associated some of them forming partnerships, but all working towards the development and rehabilitation of Rome. Tourists Tourists are the basic stakeholders of Rome and of every tourist destination, without whom there is no tourism industry and general no tourism. They expend millions of euros every year by visiting Rome and have an impact on the town, for example by reducing unemployment using the local people. Tourists impact to the towns development is significant; their needs and demands can create trends and affect the international tourism market. ENIT: National Agency of Tourism (ENIT: Agenzia Nazionale del Turismo) Enit was established by the government and has already almost one hundred year old activity of promoting Italy as a tourist destination. ENIT has institutional autonomy with regards to management, accounting and organization, under the direction of the Minister of Tourism. ENIT is responsible for promoting Italy and each region, like Rome, as a tourist destination. It promotes the various touristic aspects of Italy as a whole and sets up the promotional strategies on a national and international level, with the aim of informing countries abroad of what Italy has to offer as a tourist destination, so motivating tourism in Italy. Enit provides consultation and assistance to the Italian State, the Italian Regions and to other public organizations with regards to tourist promotion of products, allowing them to tailor commercial strategies that allow Italy to present itself in an effective manner on the foreign markets. It organizes consultancy services, assistance and collaboration in fa vor of public and private bodies, by including regional offices and agencies, to promote and to better develop the hospitality sector, as well as providing information to tourists. (Turismo, 2005) Enit is an important help for Romes promotion, but the help would be more significant if it was specialize only in Lazios region. Rome.info Rome.info is an independent, non-commercial website designed to obtain visitors and new arrivals to Rome with essential information about Rome and its surroundings. (Rome.info, 2009) Turismo Roma Turismo Roma is Romes tourist portal. The Offices responsibilities are to be responsible for the management of tourist welcome services. It organizes the promotion of events in Italy and abroad. It raises Romes profile in Italy and abroad. It participates in Italian and international tourist fairs and coordinates of projects aimed at increasing the arrivals of tourism during low seasons. Also, Turismo Roma is responsible for tourist publications to promote travelogue on the subject of the citys historical and cultural legacy and the coordination of Second Tourist Polo (Centre) projects. (Roma, 2008) Recommedations The city of Rome aspires to increase the number of travelers with a Second District of attractions in the Eternal City. These attractions are irrelevant with the churches and archeological sites in order to attract new visitors and those who have already visit Rome but would only make another visit to experience something completely new. Mauro Cutrufo, Romes Vice mayor, claimed that Rome has made an increase of 1 million visits from 2009 and is expected to be doubled in 2011. Rome succeeded to attract the Chinese market by a astonishing 400. Nevertheless, Rome is not pleased with the 14 million tourists Rome had in 2010 and try to compete Paris and Londons activity and arrivals. Besides the big targets of a Formula 1 race in Rome by 2013 and the Olympic Games of 2020, Rome aims to a recreation with green parks, new golf clubs, expanded congress and fair events, and new facilities to improve the yachting and sailing due to revive alternative tourism. Those projects are in the most advanced stage and Rome is awaiting to their results. (Rome, 2011) Word Count 2645 Executive Summary This portfolio provides a designation and analysis of the current tourism development in Rome, the originating markets and type of visitors as well as the stakeholders and the way they Influence Romes growth. This paper approaches the subject through demonstrating and analyzing statistics and tables about the visitor flow in Rome through the years. All these can be found in the appendices.

Monday, August 19, 2019

The Writing Style and Beliefs of Kate Chopin Essay -- Biography Biogra

The Writing Style and Beliefs of Kate Chopin  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚   Kate Chopin was an extraordinary writer of the nineteenth century. Despite failure to receive positive critical response, she became one of the most powerful and controversial writers of her time. She dared to write her thoughts on topics considered radical: the institution of marriage and women's desire for social, economic, and political equality. With a focus on the reality of relationships between men and women, she draws stunning and intelligent characters in a rich and bold writing style that was not accepted because it was so far ahead of its time. She risked her reputation by creating female heroines as independent women who wish to receive sexual and emotional fulfillment, an idea unheard of in the 1800s. In the late nineteenth century, the central belief of the vast majority was that the woman's job was to support and nurture her husband and children. Women were given no individual identity and were seen only in relation to a family. Women of this time could not vote and therefore had no say in any political matter. Women who wished to comment politically did so with some form of art, including music, painting, and writing (Magill, American 387). According to Frank Magill, when a woman considers herself only as a part of a relationship with someone, then that relationship becomes the central issue of her life (American 386). As a woman whose husband died young, leaving her six children to raise alone, Chopin understands that kind of dependency upon relationships (Magill, American 384). Almost as working out of her own role, she explores in her writing the complexity between men and women. Readers realize that Chopin's writing in the 1890s was far ahead of ... ...'The Storm'." The Markham Review 2.2 (1970): 1-4. Baker, Christopher. "Chopin's 'The Storm.'" Explicator 52.4 (1994): 225-226. Chopin, Kate. "The Storm." Literature Across Cultures. 2nd ed. Sheena Gillespie, Terezinha Fonseca, Carol A. Sanger. Boston, Allyn: 1998. 345-348. ---. "A Respectable Woman." Gillepsie, Fonseca, and Sanger. 342-344. ---. "At the 'Cadian Ball." The Awakening and selected stories by Kate Chopin. Ed. Sandra M. Gilbert. New York: Viking Penguin Inc., 1983.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  179-188. ---. "Athà ©naà ¯se." Gilbert. 229-261. Dyer, Joyce. "Gouvernail, Kate Chopin's Sensitive Bachelor." The Southern Literary Journal 14.1 (1981): 46-55. Magill, Frank N., ed. Critical Survey of Short Fiction. New Jersey: Salem Press, 1981. 1132-1136. ---. Magill's Survey of American Literature New York: Marshall Cavendish Corporation, 1991. 386-391.

The Figures Displayed in Sylvia Plaths Mirror Essay -- Poetry Poem Sy

The Figures Displayed in Sylvia Plath's Mirror The speaker in Sylvia Plath's poem "Mirror" is the actual mirror itself, which has been owned by a now "old woman" (16) for quite some time. This woman has looked into her mirror every day for many years now. The mirror is very aware of her presence and its environment when she is not present. The author provides many details in order for the reader to grasp the mirror's view on its ever-day sights, but this would be an impossible task without the major use of figures of speech. Plath uses many figures of speech for the benefit of the reader to completely grasp the tone and theme of the poem. Once analyzed, we see that all of these figures of speech come together to achieve one overall effect - expressing the ultimate idea of the poem. The first image and descriptions of the mirror immediately suggest the author's use of personification that brings life to the mirror. From the very beginning it seems as if a person is describing himself: "I am silver and exact. I have no preconceptions" (1). We soon realize this is not the case, but that the mirror has taken on a personality and role in the poem. The mirror puts into words what the reader may already know, but just would never think about: if a mirror really could talk this is what it would say. A mirror holds no judgment of what it sees, but only reflects the truth: "I am not cruel, only truthful" (4). This particular mirror has been owned by only one - a now elderly woman who has looked into it for many years now. The author consistently maintains the personification of the mirror throughout the poem to let the mirror speak what it has seen of this woman and its environment over the past years. The next noticeable use by ... ...s a person would see its reflection in this as well, Plath ends with a simile regarding this reflection. The woman's reflection rises to her from this lake "like a terrible fish" (18). What she has seen is herself grow into an old woman, which although is the truth of the mirror, is a sad actuality to the woman. Without any of these images, this poem would be lacking to achieve the entire intention of a mirror describing in words what is only seen and not spoken. Plath has done a wonderful job at putting on paper an entire two stanzas of only scenes and not conversation. All of the figures of speech have come together to express one final idea: a mirror does not lie, but only reflects the truth (which can only be described by perfect imagery). Works Cited: Plath, Sylvia. The Collected Poems. Ed. Ted Hughes. New York: Perennial ? Harper and Row, 1981.

Sunday, August 18, 2019

Free College Essays - Nature in The Rime of the Ancient Mariner :: Rime Ancient Mariner

The Rime of the Ancient Mariner – Nature "Look out Below!" - Craaack!   About 15 Men and women turn their glances toward the sky, and see a large, perhaps 100 feet, tree falling to the ground.   As the tree hits the solid earth, everything grows very quiet. All look at the lumberjack, who killed this tree, and find him weeping in sorrow. This situation is not uncommon when dealing with Nature.   Nature, as simple as it seems to some, generates great power.   This power is sent to us, as nature forgives only after a physical, emotional, and spiritual suffering. "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner" helps implement all these teachings together.   In current times, this power continues to teach us of forgiveness.   Ã‚  Ã‚   With physical suffering, the power of nature shows us forgiveness many ways.   In the story, the mariner betrays nature: "I shot the Albatross!" This action against nature is rather extreme, for he takes lightly to this thought of death.   The Albatross, as a representative of nature, means nothing to the Mariner.   These thoughts are quickly changed, though, as Nature begins to start the penance leading towards forgiveness - "Water, water, everywhere nor any drop to drink."   When "the mariner begins to find his salvation when he begins to look on the 'slimy things' as creatures of strange beauty" (Fraser 203),   he understands the Albatross was a symbol of nature and he realized what he had done wrong.   The mariner is forgiven after sufficient penance - "We could not speak" - is performed by Nature. Nature shows us more strength as we realize that people of today often can not forgive someone who has shot or killed another person.   Ã‚  Ã‚   At a spiritual level, Nature's power can decide if we will live, or be condemned.   Nature is capable of presenting "innermost suffering" (Coburn 33) upon people. The mariner's suffering included having his "soul in agony" soon afterwards. After attempts at prayer and realization of what he has done - "I looked to heaven and tried to pray", his penance to forgiveness begins spiritually. The mariner releases the weight of the crime greatly at the "moment he could pray".

Saturday, August 17, 2019

Aviation management

How did Stansted get the go ahead to become London’s 3rd airport? Pursuits for expansion of London airport capacity have been long drawn involving various Airport Commissions and political intrigues (FT, 2014). The quest for the Third London Airport particularly with regard to competing proposals for a new airport at Cublington and the expansion of Stansted is the subject of this section, which also discusses the key players who took part in the process.. Capacity constraints at Heathrow, particularly with the rapid growth in air traffic in the 1950s, led to overflows into Gatwick, UK’s second airport. Neither of these two locations are however ideal given the growth of the city. Built-up areas are not conducive for air safety and there is the additional challenge of noise pollution impacting residents (Helsey and Codd, 2012). It became apparent in the 1960s that there was need to meet considerable growth anticipated into the future. This gave rise to proposals for a new airport and expansion of existing capacity. Stansted, a former military airfield in Essex, was proposed as a third airport in 1963 and was thereafter endorsed by a Government White Paper in 1967 (HC Hansard, 1971; Stansted Airport, 2013). A subsequent inconclusive public inquiry led to the setup of the Commission for the Third London Airport, popularly referred to as the Roskill Commission tasked with review of sites for a third airport (Abelson and Flowerdew, 1972; UKCAA, 2013). With its evaluation of the timing of need, the requirement for expansion of capacity, and after a careful study of a total of 80 proposed project sites, four sites were finally chosen, principal among them a new airport at Cublington in the Vale of Aylesbury. It was deemed to offer best access situated in the key London-Birmingham axis away from built-up areas and would cost less than most of the alternatives (Abelson and Flowerdew, 1972). This proposal however met with strong opposition from local people, politicians and middle-class voters making it politically untenable (FT , 2014). An influential member of the Roskill Commission, Colin Buchanan, in dissent on grounds of environmental and planning concerns, proposed a new alternative at Maplin Sands, Foulness in the Thames Estuary. This opened the door to strong political opposition against Cublington with the latter proposal becoming the preferred option of the Conservative government of the day which thus disregarded Roskill’s proposal (FT, 2014; Helsey and Codd, 2012; Mishan, 1970). Maplin had interestingly been considered by the Roskill Commission and had been decisively rejected on the basis of cost (the most expensive option overall), distance and convenience to prospective passengers (the most remote) (FT, 2014; Mayor of London, 2013). With all the political support and progress towards the Maplin proposal, it was not built (FT, 2014; Helsey and Codd, 2012). The cost of the constituent deep-harbour, rail links, motorways, new towns to accommodate workers, and surface route to the airport was an astronomical ?825 million (estimated at ?8,448 million today) (Helsey and Codd, 2012). To many, including the opposition party then – the Labour Party, this was regarded as unacceptable (FT, 2014). With the coming to power of the Labour Party a change in complexion, the Maplin airport project was abandoned in July 1974 (FT, 2014). A reappraisal of passenger projections in the new regime indicated â€Å"over-optimism† in forecasts showing that there was adequate capacity until 1990 at Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted and Luton, aided by regional airports (AOA, 2013; UKCAA, 2013). However, with increasing competition from abroad and passenger numbers once more rising, the need for expansion became apparent. British Airports Authority (BAA), owner of the Stansted Airport, submitted plans for its expansion and with significant lobbying by its Chairman Norman Payne and the enlisting of support from Margaret Thatcher, the Maplin scheme was abandoned in favour of a cheaper plan to enlarge Stansted (Mayor of London, 2013). This option had also been considered by Roskill and had not made the shortlist of key options (FT, 2014). The expansion of Stansted was accomplished a decade after its proposition but was a predictable failure challenged by a lack of success in attracting and supporting long-haul operations by airlines (World Airline Directory, 2001; UKCAA, 2013). It was however to benefit from the emergence of low-cost carriers, principally Ryanair, which were drawn by attractive landing charges which offset consequent inconvenience to their passengers (UKCAA, 2013; Mayor of London, 2013; BBC, 2011). Airport policy in the UK has been a case study of political short-termism with the location of an additional (3rd) airport for London in a dilemma. Heightened by uncertainy over demand and growth estimates and a general lack of bold political action, decisions are challenged by political considerations making inland airports unfeasible and economic cons iderations making coastal airports unfeasible. This has led to the postponement of requisite action with policy makers often prone to swaying given the intense and incessant lobbying and political pressures. References Abelson, P. and A., Flowerdew, 1972. Roskill’s successful recommendation.† In: Journal of the Royal Statistical Society. Vol. 135. No. 4, pp.467 Airports Operators Association, 2013. The Airport Operator, Autumn 2013. BBC, 2011. Heathrow and Stansted runway plans scrapped by BAA, 24 May 2010. Viewed on 30/1/2014 from: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk Financial Times, 2014. London’s new airport held to ransom by folly. December, 2013 House of Commons Hansard, 1971. Third London Airport (Roskill Commission Report). 4th March. Vol. 812. cc1912-2078. HC Helsey, M., and F., Codd, 2012. Aviation: proposals for an airport in the Thames estuary, 1945-2012. House of Commons Library. Viewed from: http://cambridgemba.files.wordpress.com/2012/02/sn4920-1946-2012-review.pdf Mayor of London, 2013. Why London needs a new hub airport. Transport for London. Viewed from: http://www.tfl.gov.uk/corporate/projectsandschemes/26576.aspx Mishan, E., 1970. What is wrong with RoskillLondon: Lo ndon School of Economics Stansted Airport, 2013. Press Release. Viewed on 1st Feb 2014 from: http://www.stanstedairport.com UKCAA, 2013. UK Airport Statistics – Aviation Intelligence. United Kingdom Civil Aviation Authority. World Airline Directory, 2001. Flight International. Stansted Airport, Stansted, Essex, 27 March – 2 April 2001. CM241SB, UK Given the urgent need to find a solution to UK airport capacity why do you think the government wishes to delay the process? Political intrigues and myriad arguments still mire the London airport expansion pursuit half a century later with the current Howard Davies Airports Commission set up in 2012 still wading in the long running controversy (FT, 2014). Continued political posturing, hedging and stonewalling still characterizes this pursuit for a viable solution given the readiness to oppose policies espoused by those of different complexions and political stand and complication of issues hindering bold decisions and action (FT, 2014; CAPA, 2013). With reference to previous government airport policies, this section evaluates the desire of government to postpone a decision on the final solution to meet need until after the 2015 general election. In the Davies Commission’s view, the capacity challenge is yet to become critical and there is need for action as there is potential for it to be (The Independent, 2014; Airports Committee, 2013a). These findings contained in its December 2013 interim report (preceding a final report expected in 2015) are based on the acknowledgement of continued growth of air travel, mainly in the South East of England with the need for an extra runway by 2030 and another possibly by 2050. For the short and medium term, the Commission has made a raft of proposals to enhance efficiency of airline and ground operations (Airports Commission, 2013b). Ideally, the latter proposal is arguably most appropriate given that operational and design improvements have hitherto enable d the handling of more volumes than anticipated, extending current capacity and enabling full and efficient use of available resource (UKCAA, 2013; The Independent, 2014). On the Commission’s shortlist of options for the short and medium term include a third runwayand lengthening of an existing runway at Heathrow, and a new runway at Gatwick. The proposal for a brand new airport in the Thames Estuary is side-lined citing uncertainties and challenges surrounding it with the Commission however promising to evaluate its feasibility and to arrive at a decision regarding its viability later in 2014 as well as longer term expansion options at Stansted and Birmingham (CAPA, 2013; Airport International, 2012). The government however says that it will not make a final decision in this regard until after the 2015 general election pushing the responsibility to the next government (CAPA, 2013; FT, 2014). When the Coalition government came to power in 2010, it scrapped former Labour gover nment’s plan for a third runway at Heathrow to which it had been strongly opposed instead favouring the creation of a new hub airport in the Thames Estuary (Helsey and Codd, 2012). Given renewed focus on Heathrow, there seems to be a deliberate decision by government to avoid offending the electorate in its turnaround from its manifesto commitment, as well as to avoid political turbulence in the run up to the forthcoming elections (FT, 2014; CAPA, 2013). It is widely accepted that Prime Minister David Cameron set up the Davies Commission in a bid to postpone or to defuse controversy, maintaining a dishonest ambiguity until after the general election (FT, 2014). Heathrow is a popular preference given the support it receives from the majority of politicians (except those with constituencies on the flight path); business and powerful representative lobby bodies; airlines; air alliances; remote UK regional airports benefiting from international connections; as well as domestic an d international aviation representative bodies (CAPA, 2013; FT, 2014). Critics state that the inclusion of other airports is intended at making the proposals not to seem too Heathrow-centric and is aimed at political expediency (FT, 2014, CAPA, 2013). It would have been political dynamite for the Commission not to have made positive clamours with regard to runway capacity warding off accusations of ministers trying to kick the controversy ‘into the long grass’, a scenario which has bedevilled such pursuits for half a century (CAPA, 2013; The Independent, 2014). From the 1967 Government White Paper permitting the expansion of Stansted, through subsequent inquiries and the Roskill Commission in the early 1970s, the quest for expanded capacity continues with arguments going back and forth around similar proposals and sites (FT, 2014; UKCAA, 2013). Expansion at Heathrow is an easy road given that it is relatively cheaper and has less challenges but for the environmental con cerns of noise pollution and carbon emissions which cannot be ignored or wished away (Airports Committee, 2013a). The option for expansion at Stansted is impeded by previous capacity limitation by the 1985 White Paper, though it got reprieve in the 2003 ‘Future of Air Transport’ White Paper and an extension of passenger capacity limit by the courts (DOT, 2003). Yet, Stansted has historically been challenged with regard to its support of long-haul flights; preference by airlines; as well as environmental concerns (World Airline Directory, 2001; UKCAA, 2013). The Thames Estuary option despite being the most environmentally sound is challenged by economic considerations regarding not only the cost of building the airport but also the requisite surface links, and costs associated with imminent closure at Heathrow. There is also difficulty in the estimation of effects it will have on demand and airline operations (The Independent, 2014; Airports Commission, 2013b; Airport In ternational, 2012). This scenario highlights the present dilemma facing political players and government, which is what leads to their general uncertainty and a general lack of boldness in approach. Intense lobbying and political pressure has consequently led to the postponement of decisions and the backtracking by government from its pledge. The divide in opinion and arguments causing uncertainty hands politicians a license to continue to do nothing at all. References Airports Committee, 2013a. Emerging thinking: Aviation Capacity in the UK. 7th October. Viewed from: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/aviation-capacity-in-the-uk-emerging-thinking Airports Commission, 2013b. Short and medium term options: proposals for making the best use of existing airport capacity. 7th August. Viewed from: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/short-and-medium-term-options-proposals-for-making-the-best-use-of-existing-airport-capacity Airport International, 2012. Thames Estuary Airport Is No t A â€Å"Short Term† Solution. 4 July 2012. CAPA, 2013. The Davies Commission’s Interim Report on UK airports: the big loser remains UK competitiveness. Centre for Aviation. Department of Transport, 2003. The Future of Air Transport – White Paper and the Civil Aviation Bill. Viewed on 14/1/2014 from: http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/+/http:/www.dft.gov.uk/about/strategy/whitepapers Financial Times, 2014. London’s new airport held to ransom by folly. December, 2013 Helsey and Codd, 2012. Aviation: proposals for an airport in the Thames estuary, 1945-2012 The Independent, 2014. Sir Howard Davies’ Airports Commission: Air travel could be transformed within a few years – with no more ‘stacking’. 17th December, 2013 UKCAA, 2013. UK Airport Statistics – Aviation Intelligence. United Kingdom Civil Aviation Authority.

Friday, August 16, 2019

Racial Discrimination Essay

The scene of ghettosThe with poor living conditions of the ghettos in whichwhere black people live is not uncommon. , Iit actually manifests a larger picture of racial discrimination which is closely related to poverty. Racial discrimination is about the pre-conceived notion that black people are inferior; they are more prone to violence and totally relianty on social welfare to survive. As a result of these stereotypical images, black people receive low quality education and they will have less job opportunities, not to mention the limited access to the welfare system. In this essay, we shall discuss whether racial discrimination causes poverty among this minority community in America. Racial discrimination undoubtedly appears in the education system in AmericaAmerica’s education system, as Gordon, Piana and Keleher (2000) points out that the public schools in America failed to provide the same quality education for the blacks compared to the whites. In minority schools where African American and Latino are concentratedthere is a concentration of African-Americans and Latinos, there are limited resources and professionally trained teachers for students. Tthis phenomenon conveys that resources are unevenly distributed among schools as a result of racism. Besides resources and quality of teachers, there is a higher rate of suspension and expulsion for black people, as suggested in the search by Applied Research Center for Expose Racism and Advance School Excellence, suspension and expulsion rate is three times higher for African AmericanAfrican-Americans, with the rate of 56% compared to 18% of general school population. This may be due to the unfairness in treating the treatment of black people in the case of zero-tolerance policies such as the Gun-Free School Act (GFSA) enacted in 1994. It is important to note that schools expel African AmericanAfrican-American students at a disproportionate rate compared to white studentsstudents, as schools seem to have a convenient reason to expel the â€Å"unwanted† students. This clearly illustrates how such kind of policpoliciesy aggravates existing disparities in the education system. Uneven distribution of wealth is also a major problem, causing poverty among black people. It is suggested that due to racial segregation and a controlled political environment by white people, black people usually find it difficult to assimilate themselves into the labor force and civil society (Ducan, 1999). In the U. S. , per capita income of the whites is almost five times more than that of the blacks, which clearly illustrates the serious problem of a widening wealth gap between these twodifferent racial groups. The findings from Mean Racial Wealth Gap across 181 U. S. Metropolitan Statistical Areas shows that the standard deviation of wage between the blacks and the whites is the highest in among comparison toof different racial groups such as Latinos and white people and Asians and white people. , Iit clearly points out that the most severe wealth gap exists between black and white people. However, upward mobility is restricted for the black blacks as they face racial discrimination in the process of hiring and firing. Only about half of working-age black men are employed, compared to two-thirds of white men, but even if black menpeople are employed, they are usually engaged in low-paid jobs so that they can barely affordsupport their daily expenses. It is likely that black people are being exploited in the labor market because they are seen as racial minorities (McCall, 2001). As a result of lower wage rate comparably, black people are more likely to live under the poverty line than white people. It seems to be a logical conclusion that sinceas black people are less able to support themselves, they will become the major beneficiary of the welfare system. However, figures show the opposite situation; , only 7. 7% of retirement insurance are received by black peopleblack people receive only 7. 7% of retirement insurances. Researches also shows that a social welfare other than retirement insurance, such as disability insurance, medical healthcare and housing, benefit black people to a limited extent (Davies & Derthick, 1997). Another example of institutional racism is that in hospitals in AmericaAmerican hospitals, black people will beare segregated from white people, and and they will receive lower quality of medical healthcare services. han white people and Hhospitals that primarily serve the minority community are disproportionately closed without sound reasons (Randall, 2011). All these examples clearly illustrate the fact that equal opportunity isare not provided to people of different races. , Ppeople in need are not being subsidized enough simply because they are black people. The two social problems of, racial discrimination and poverty should not be seen as separated issues. , Iin fact, they are closely correlated in the sense that racial discrimination directly causes poverty. The three arguments above portray a vicious cycle: low education level will cause black people to have less job opportunities, together with limited social welfare, and the resulting ins poverty. When a family does not have enough resources to support their children to receive better education, poverty will pass on to the next generation. Black people end up being socially and economically inferior compared with to white people. Racial discrimination undeniablye creates and perpetuates unbalanced economic opportunitiesy, which should be eradicated in all sense.

Thursday, August 15, 2019

Financial analysis for smartphone industry

After a heat discussion, our team chose the smart phone industry for the following two reasons. Firstly, telephone is a significant communicating instrument around the world today. International Telecommunication Union predicts that the number of cell phones would exceed the number of human beings in 2014. Secondly, with the increasingly functions of smart phone, it plays a vital role in the relevant industries. The flourishing development of smart phone industry also accelerates the development of other industries such as the cell phone battery industry and cell phone game industry. . 1 Industry Analysis We are talking about smart phone industry specifically. The newly formed competitive market includes hardware manufacturing, operating systems and content. Looking back on the history, leaders of those fields have changed a lot, as Monika, Motorola and RIM have been transcended by Apple, Samsung and other brands. Apply Porter's five force analysis to smart phone industry. Starting f rom threat of entry, software faces this more because of open platforms. Floods of capitals are required for R and operation levels, thus this threat is moderately high.Substitutes like Pads, Notebook and laptops have entered the market causing the threat. Threat also comes from suppliers, fragmented supply and the difficulty of vertical integration have impeded company profiting. But the threat is low overall. Meanwhile, buyers also impact threat by various demands and higher bargaining power. All these four threats result in a high threat of rivalry. Brand and concentrated market also matter. For the industry status, in 2011, the smart phone application market was about USED 6. 7 billion which is expected to be USED 1 55 billion with CARR of almost 55% from 2011 to 2017.In addition, worldwide sales of smart phones to end users totaled 968 million units in 2013, an increase of 42. Percent from 2012. Sales of smart phones accounted for 53. 6 percent of overall mobile phone sales in 2013 which accounts for 75. 8% of the overall mobile handset revenue. 1. 3 Firm description We choose six companies in smart phone industry to do some analysis. They are Sony, Apple, Samsung, ETC, Black Berry and Monika. The firms we choose represent different level of performance in the industry. Apple and Samsung are outstanding firms with higher net income and greater profitability.MONIKA, SONY and Blackberry are firms once created brilliant achievements but suffer from ailing business in the past 3 years. ETC is a newly brought-in competitor with advanced technology in developing smart phones. The six firms experienced different types of history. Samsung struggled with poor quality and inferior products in its earlier times. Apple seemed to grow gradually since it was established. On the contrary, Blackberry and MONIKA were once outstanding in the industry. SONY (SONY Ericson) left behind when transforming from mobile phones to smart phones.ETC has a short history. Most of the f irms experienced several important mergers or acquisition in the past 5 years. Badly-performed firms shrink while well-performed ones expand their equines by proper selling plans or acquisitions. Some important events are as follows. Microsoft declared to acquire Ionians mobile business and large amounts of patent portfolios with 7. 17 billion dollars. Blackberry made an announcement that the corporation agreed to be acquired by Fairfax Financial Holdings at the price of 47 billion, though the selling plan turns out to be failed.SONY and Ericson were incorporated into Sony Mobile Communications. 2. Past performance analysis Note: Risk free rate: US. Government bond rate for 5 years Expected market return: historical industry return for 5 years 2. 1 Samsung 013 is a fancy year for Samsung, possessing the biggest market share in smart phone for 31. 5% ahead of 15. 5% for Apple. For the first sq in 2013, PEE ratio decreased from 9. 09% to 6. 99% and it rose to 7. 30% in SQ. For the cap ital structure, 93. 2% was financed by equity and bond took up 6. 7%. Stock return for 2013 is -3. 7%. Move to past areas. PIE ratio experienced biggest decrease from 1 1. 88% to 7. 04%. Stock return is waving from 2. 98% to 28. 53%. Now focus on past areas. PEE ratio as 1 1. 88% peaked in 2011 standing out from a general downward trend. Besides, the releasing of GALAXY Tab 3 and GALAXY Note 10. Drove inventory turnover ratio higher. The peak for debt to equity ratio appeared in 2011 which is 0. 1446 and the trend is downward. Stock return in 2009 is highest for 64. 42%. The cost of equity for Samsung is 27. 63% given its current beta is 1. 12.For the dividend policy, the payout ratios are 12. 3%, 9. 3%, 6. 0%, 5. 1% and 7. 11%respectively since 2009. The most recent dividend pay date is on August 26, painting out 75. 4 million USED. On July 17 2012, Samsung acquired the handset operations of CARS Pl, and invested a 4. 9% stake in the company later. It is the largest acquisition cas e for Samsung since the 1997 uncial crisis. Actually, Samsung completed 5 acquisitions in 2012 which is more frequent than before. Acquisitions progress appears in net income rising from in 2011 to and to in 2012 and 2013.Inventions also declined from 3,859,994 to 2,918,234 until 2013. Samsung sold a record 86 million smart phones in Quaff 2013 and widened its lead over Apple selling 51 million for phone 5. 2. 2 Monika In 2013, Monika had a negative PEPS, showing that Monika didn't do well in 2013. The inventory turnover was about 6. 0, lower than the industry average (about). ROE was negative. The debt/asset ratio was 72. 59%. The dividend per share was O in 2013. The stock return was 97% in 2013 and the cost of equity for Monika is 8. 66%, given its current beta is 1. 3. Looking at the past 3 years, we find Debt/Equity ratio of Monika was increasing constantly. The ROE ratio was always negative over the past three years, decreasing from 2011 to 2012 and increasing from 2012 to 201 3. The dividend per share decreased from 0. 33 in 2011 to 0. 13 in 2012, then too in 2013. The stock return increased from -55% in 2011 to -23% in 2012, then to 97% in 2013. Considering the past five years performance, we find that Monika did quite a good Job in 2009 and 010 because its PIE ratios were positive and really high.The dividend per share decreased from 0. 41 in 2009 to 0. 31 in 2010. The trend of dividend per share from 2009 to 2013 is declining. The stock return increased from 2009 to 2013 while it was negative from 2009 to 2012. As for important events, on September 3rd, 2013, Microsoft declared to acquire Ionians mobile business and a large amount of patent portfolios with 7. 17 billion dollars. The stock price of Monika soared from about 3 dollars per share to about 8 dollars per share from August 29th, 2013 to November 18th, 2013.We compare the financial performance of the third quarter and fourth quarter of 2013 and find that net income increased a lot from -91 mil lions to -millions of dollars. 2. 3 Apple In 2013, Apple had a perfect performance. The ROE (about 0. 3064) and PIE ratio (about 15. 21) are both three times higher than the industry average, Besides, the inventory turnover of Apple is about 83, Apple is already well-known for its supply chain. The company's 40. 31% of assets came from debt and 59. 69% of assets came from equity. The of PAPAL in 2013 is 0. 74, and the cost of capital for PAPAL is 22. 3 percent in 2013.In the past 3 years, the current ratio and price-earnings ratio did not change a lot, but ROE decrease sharply in 2013, and the debt/equity decreased in 2012 and increased in 2013, meaning that the company issued more stocks than bonds in 2012. The annual stock return 0. 013 in 2013, 0. Tent 2012, and 0. 243 in 2011. Looking back over 5 years, the ROE increased from 2009 to 2012 and decreased in 2013. The inventory turnover went up sharply from 2012 and went down a little in 2013, which is partially because of the phon e ass's huge success. In addition, PAPAL began giving shareholders a quarterly dividend of $2. Per share in 2012. This dividend yield is about 1. 2% higher than the industry average. Apple's business philosophy is to acquire small companies that can be easily integrated into existing company projects, so Apple did more than 60 small acquisitions in the last decades. Apple merged plenty of software makers including Sir. After the acquisition, Sir has been an intelligent personal assistant and was introduced as a feature of the phone AS. This technical innovation has been a huge success so that more than 50% profit of Apple company came from phone in 2012. 2. ETC 013 is a struggling year for ETC, we can see that most of the key ratios of the company are under the industry average, profitability measures are almost all negative, and ROE are -1. 67, indicating that ETC failed to earn enough profit to even cover its expense. The high Debt/equity ratio (1. 22) makes its stock risky. The o f ETC in 2013 is 1. 88, while the industry average is only 1. 12. High makes the cost to raise capital high too. The cost of capital for ETC is 10. 13 percent in 2013. Looking back over 3 years, we found that Itch's profit has been declining since 2011, inventory turnover declined from 12. 8 to 7. 0 due to the poor sale and management problem. The annual stock return -0. 525 in 2013, 0. 064 2012, and -0. 392 in 2011. Looking back over 5 years, it is clear that the business boomed during 2009 and 2011, and started to fall behind since then. The sale increased by about 1 11% from 2009 to 2010, but stock price has fallen by 90 percent since then. Besides, the company prescribed at least 50% of the total dividend be distributed as cash dividend, it pay dividend in July or August every year. ETC believe that acquisitions are the key to help ETC quickly grow to compete with its competitors.So ETC spent more than $700 lions on acquisition in 2010 and 2011 trying to gain market share. Major mergers include SO Graphics, Beats Electronics LLC, and etc. However, Itch's acquisition strategy didn't work well as expected. Those deals neither helped ETC to boost its brand image or to win the law suit, the sale have also been decreasing since the requested of 2011. 2. 5 Sony From 2009 to 2013, Sony had gone through a road of difficult and twists. In 2013, Sony didn't have a well performance. Its current ratio, ROE and inventory turnover ratio is under industry average.To be specific, its inventory turnover ratio is the lowest. Through its PEE ratio is strangely high, I think it mostly related to the small profit number. Looking back over 3 years, we can see most ratio, including ROE and inventory turnover ratio, had a peak in 2012. Especially ROE had a soaring from 2011 to 2012. There are four reasons. First, Sony Corp. acquired the remaining 50% stake from ELM Ericson Telethon ABA on February 15, 2012, which made mobile phone sales increased a lot. Last, the yen devalued. Lo oking back over 5 years, the current ratio and ROE had a drop until 2011.The inventory turnover ratio had a peak in 2010 while he debt-equity ratio increased until 2012. Actually, Sony had negative net income for consecutive four years. Not only it is a result of disasters such as JP Tsunami, but also it is because the yen appreciate and digital products from Japan were shocked by other goods. The stock return ratio of Sony from 2009 to 2011 has dropped from 0. 5 to -0. 47. However, it began to increase then. The ratio in 2013 is about 0. 15. It is consistent with what ROE shows. The cost of equity is 52. 72%. It is large due to the high Arm (29. 64%) and high risk (beta-?I . 2). 2. 6 Blackberry 2013 is not a pleasant year for Blackberry. The ability to generate profit is far behind its peer competitors. PEPS and ROE of the firm are -1. 23 and -6. 61% due to the negative net income. However, the current ratio highly above the industry average (about 1. 09). Stocks risk of Blackberry is low, measured in of 0. 48. Based on p, the cost of capital is 3. 70%. On account of the bad performance over the year, annual stock return in 2013 is -0. 426. Looking back to the past three-year performance, Blackberry dropped from its recent peak in 2011 to historical worst.Blackberry experienced a terrible service interrupt in Cot, 2011, which severely damaged the rim reputation and directly caused the following bad performances. Business declined sharply in 2012, with falling ROE and PEE ratio. In retrospect the performance in last five years, we could see that even under unpleasant financial crisis, Blackberry still could hold itself. PEE ratio was 17. 1 in 2009 and 10. 0 in 2012, both showing a good prospect, however, the ratio then began to decrease sharply after 2010. Annual stock return was at first positive in 2009(0. 19), but it has fallen below zero ever since. Inventory turnover is quite stable during the whole period. No dividend has been strutted during recent five years because of the disappointing performance. Most important series of restructuring events in Blackberry's history appeared in the year 2013. BlackBerry first announced to have reached a potential acquisition agreement with its biggest shareholder Fairfax Financial on Seep 23rd, after this good news, the stock price of BlackBerry shot up 0. 6 dollars. But the potential acquisition plan didn't last for a long time.In Novena, 2013 BlackBerry declared the breakdown of the selling plan. By pm Novo 4th, the stock price of BlackBerry has dropped 1. 44 dollars (18. 53%). 3. Future performance analysis . 1 Pro formal Pro formal of Cash Flow Pro formal of Balance Sheet & Income Statement Note: Erg (regression) W-M (weighted-moving-average method) Final (final forecast) We complete the pro formal by three steps. First step is to do an autoregressive analysis to forecast the data of 2014 and 201 5 through the historical data from 2009 to 2013. Then, we computed the weighted average by givi ng the weight of 0. 5, 0. 1, 0. 15, 0. 3, and 0. 4. Finally, we find some forward looking data predicted by economic forecasters on the internet and use moving weighted average method to get final data which are more efficient. What is more, if there is no forward looking data, we use weighted average on the regressive result and average result. We combined two different methods to do the forecast. Because every method has it is own drawback. For the regression method, it cannot show that the latest data, which indicates the trends more accurately, is more vital than the previous one.And the weighted average can overcome this drawback by giving the latest data more weights. But for some items like income, we think the result of regression method is more accurately. So we combined these two methods by using weighted average. 3. 2 Recommendation We divided the analysis of future performance of PAPAL into two parts: The analysis of data and the analysis of reality. Firstly, Let us focu s on the forecast data. We analyze three kinds of vital data measuring the performance of PAPAL. The first one is earnings per share (PEPS), which reflects the ability of company to generating profit.We forecast this data by regression, which is to estimate the net income and shares and do a Multivariate regression. The result is around 45. Then, there are five websites give out the PEPS estimate around 47. 9. We give them weights and get the final data of 47. . PEPS is the dollar value of earnings per each outstanding share of a company's common stock. Higher PEPS means that the company can generate more net income by each share and it can use less capital to get higher profit. Besides, the dividend may be high because of the high PEPS. The forecast data 47. In 201 5 is higher than today's data and it is reliable, because the net income and the shares are both increasing and the increasing speed of shares is slowly. So the performance of PAPAL will be better in the future. The seco nd one is PIE ratio. We use the weighted average method to get PIE in 201 5, which is 13. 2, and we also use the regression method to get it, which is 13. 44. We find that the forecast PIE ratio in Yahoo is 13. 07, which is not a high one. Theoretically speaking, a stock with low PIE ratio is a good one to investment, because the purchase cost is low.Besides, we think the value of PAPAL is underestimated now because of the high PEPS and the low PIE ratio. The price of stock will go up in the future. The third one is ROE, which shows how well PAPAL uses investment funds to earnings growth. We use the weighted average method to get ROE in 201 5, which is 36. 34%, and we also use the regression method to get it, which is 38. 6%. The average number is 37. 6%. ROE measures the rate of return on the shareholders' equity of the stock owners, which measures a firm's ability of generating profits from every unit of shareholders' equity.Generally speaking, ROES more than 10% are considered go od. Besides, the ROE of PAPAL is a reliable one, because the debt asset ratio is not high. In conclusion, we recommend that stockholders could hold Pal's stock for a long time because of the low PIE ratio and the high ROE. Performance we forecasted originates from two reality parts, one is expected increase based on past and current situations and the other is unexpected hangs including systematic and unsystematic risks align with future. The anticipated two opportunities for Apple are analyzed as following.The global market for smart phone will grow in few years based on GIG prediction and the annual sale is expected to increase from 1 billion in 2013 to 1 . Billion in 2017. Until the end of 2013, the SIS system accounted for 41. 2% and Android is 51. 9% comparatively. This intense rising user trend will amplify the market pie. The other is the cooperation with China Mobile. Above million regular customers of China Mobile will assist the sales rise for Apple. Unexpected systematic risk consists of interest rate risk and foreign currency risk. The company typically invests in highly-rated securities and changes in U.S. Interest rates affect the interest earned on the company's cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities, the fair value of those securities, as well as costs associated with hedging. In the third quarter of 2013, the company issued $17. 0 billion of long-term debt, which included $3. 0 billion of floating-rate notes. In addition, Apple is a net receiver of foreign currencies and changes in exchange rates, particularly strengthening of U. S. Lars will negatively affect its net sales and gross margins expressed as U. S. Dollars originally. Unsystematic risk involves Apple's internal specific performance.New products release like will be a main source. The attraction of next generation Apple phone is controversial and based on past dissatisfying sales of phone and pad, their growth rate nearly held constant. Some people concern its innovation w ithout Jobs but some analysts note that the bigger size for phones will eliminate advantage of Android system brands like Samsung. Charm of wearing new product which is twitch concretely is also worth anticipating ND we may get some indicts from the coming WAD held in Los Angels. Beyond this, Apple will increase repurchase of stocks and issuance of dividends.According to Sanford C. Bernstein prediction, Apple will issue BIB dollars dividends in 2015. This will increase the value of stocks held on shareholders if the PEE ratio increased after the issuance. 4. Relative Performance According to the comparison of 5 key ratios, the underperforming corporations are SONY, Blackberry, ETC and MONIKA. Most of the firm shared common problems in several aspects as lack of innovative products and inventory management, while mom have critical faults in designing strategies. Relative performance and recommendations are as follows.According to the lowest inventory turnover ratio of Sony among its industry peers, one recommendation for Sony is to turn over its inventory quickly. It can improve its supply chain, manage efficiently to product appropriately. Due to the fast update of digital products, long inventory turnover period will enlarge the risk and the cost. Besides, 3. 1% of the market share is so small compared with Samsung and Apple that its ROE can't increase smoothly. The key to increase its market share is to launch the new production. Only by creating great mobile phones like phone, can Sony rebuild its Sony Time.Similar problems appeared in Blackberry and Monika. Most of Blackberry's profitability ratios as PEE, ROE and PEPS are under industry average due to firm's negative net income. The reasons are lack of attractive application programs and disappointing new product. Apple's phone and Google's Android squeezed the market share of Blackberry smart phone. The newly launched table PC was also not satisfying with simple functions but high selling price. Blackber ry should not only depend on its good reputation in E-mail recessing system, but focus more on user's entertainment experience like fancy interface and programs.Besides, Blackberry is the only one who ignores the prospect in China. To recover from declining tendency, a competitive product is required to open its Chinese market. The negative ROE and low inventory turnover ratio indicates that MONIKA is losing money . The reason is that the product of Monika is not as popular as that of other leading companies like Apple and considered to be lack of innovation, and its Simian operating system (until 2013) is not advocated by developers. So Monika should increase funding for research and develop products that appeal the consumers.Given that the mobile phone business of Monika was acquired by Microsoft on April 5th, 2014 (the acquisition was started on September 3rd, 2013), Microsoft should learn a lesson from the failure of Monika. ETC has been struggling in China due to price competit ion and limited distribution. Many people think the wrong high-end market strategy got ETC into trouble. To get out of woods, ETC may need to forget its strategy on high-end market and consider a partnership (merger) with another smart phone company that could provide synergy.Chinese smart phone makers sell products domestically because they have weak brand awareness in other regions, but ETC has established solid brand awareness in the United States and Europe, which Chinese handset makers could capitalize on. And ETC could get resources to get through this situation and look for new chances for development. So a merger with Chinese films could be a win-win. 5. Conclusion From the perspective of companies in the smart phone industry: Considering the fast speed of development of Asia-Pacific market, each company should strive to evolve Asia-Pacific market.Moreover, the target market of the company must be effective. As for products, companies should develop the products that satisfy consumers' preference. From the perspective of investors: The smart phone industry has a great development potential, so investors have substantial investment opportunities in this industry. But investors should cautiously determine the invested companies. We recommend selecting invested companies according to their past and future financial performance, the fitness between their products and the preference f the market, the market strategies and so on.