Character analysis of Eve and Sita

Table of Contents Introduction The contrast in the characters The similarities in characters Conclusion Works Cited Introduction Written by two different playwrights, The Ramayana and Paradise Lost by Maharshi Valmiki and John Milton respectively are ancient epic poems that present the nature of females during their relationship with men. While Valmiki presents Sita as an extraordinary woman with desirable characters, Milton describes Eve as a woman who is vulnerable to deviate from the norms. Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Character analysis of Eve and Sita specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Comparatively, while Valmiki draws out the picture of Sita as a model of purity in the Hindu culture, Milton examines Eve’s level of respect and obedience, but not as an archetype of knowledge. Besides Sita, other minor female characters like Kausalya and Kaikeyi play a significant role in opening to the audience the behavioral conduct of women. Whereas there are few similarities in the character of Sita and Eve, there are many dissimilar elements in their conduct as the following discussion exposits. The contrast in the characters Valmiki presents Sita as a symbol of richness. Moreover, he describes her as life by representing her as a model of fertility. For instance, Sita says, â€Å"Saintly Janak saw my birth, /Child of harvest-bearing furrow, Sita sprang from Mother Earth† (Goldman â€Å"The Ramayana of Valmiki: An Epic of Ancient India† 416). The aforementioned quote means that Sita is not only the goddess of fertility during human reproduction, but she is also a vital figure in the agricultural world. The author uses living features like plants or animals when referring to Sita’s feelings. Therefore, the natural environment automatically connects Sita’s happiness. For example, while in the forest, the author writes, â€Å"The flowers and trees delight her † (Goldman â€Å"The Ramayana of Valmiki: An Epic of Ancient India† 456). Furthermore, her sacrifice to accompany Rama to the forest proves her love for nature. When she departs from the forest sorrow depression and unhappiness feels her life. Therefore, as aforementioned, it suffices to conclude that Sita represents richness and fertility. Such combination of qualities can only be offered by nature, no wonder her love for the same. Secondly, Sita is a symbol of purity and womanhood. In the first instance, Sita accompanies her husband, Rama, during his exile in the forest. Although Rama convinces her to stay behind, she declines his request. Therefore, her character proves her possession of a pure heart and strong will to do what the society holds as right. The society propagates the stereotype that, women should cling to and support their husbands regardless of the prevailing situation. Otherwise, which woman in her right mind would leave the luxurious life of a pala ce to go and suffer in the wilderness? Her love to her husband is pure and unquestionable. Moreover, her womanhood, as dictated by the norms, is infallible.Advertising Looking for essay on literature languages? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More On the contrary, Milton does not portray Eve symbolically as it is the case with Sita, but he uses her to educate the audience about marriage and women. Eve is weak, and the ability of the devil to trick her into committing sin makes her impure. The elegant physique of her body tempts her to fall. Throughout the epic, Eve’s intelligence, wisdom, and spiritual qualities are constantly under scrutiny. Unlike Sita, she succumbs to the tests thus disqualifying her as the ideal woman. Moreover, Milton draws Eve as an object of lust rather than a symbol of womanhood as it is the case with Valmiki. After all, she is just human, and as the old adage goes, human is to error. Character wis e, Sita is a kind and faithful wife, which are some of the major qualities a man longs for in a woman. The author uses the phrase ‘faithful wife’ on several occasions to refer to her as a perfect wife in the society. After making up her mind to follow her husband, she says, â€Å"That he home the wedded woman doth beside her husband make† (Goldman â€Å"The Ramayana of Valmiki: Sundarakanda† 576), which means her culture demands of her not to leave her husband. Thus, she is not only obedient to her husband but also to the Hinduism culture. In addition, Valmiki describes her as â€Å"soft-eyed/sweet eyed† (Goldman â€Å"The Ramayana of Valmiki: Sundarakanda† 576) giving her the outstanding qualities of a wife. On the other hand, Eve is unfaithful and disobedient. Her body, beauty, passion and earthly desires always control her actions. For instance, the Satan easily tempts her after maximizing on her beauty as the weakest point (Milton 20). C onsequently, she not only disobeys God, but also puts her marriage on rocks. Adams is angry because of her manipulation, which leads him into sin. The lack of will to do the right things drives Eve into sin. The similarities in characters The main contrasting character of Sita is the inability to heed her husband’s requests. She lacks the power of submission that an ideal woman should possess. For example, she turns him down when he requests her not to join him in the exile/forest. According to one of the poet’s analysts, ‘She is insisting on her own needs and feelings, her desire to be with Rama† (Peltier 80), yet she should weigh the situation and follow the best route. On the second occasion, Sita forces her husband to chase a deer, but at the same time overlooks the dangers he may face. Consequently, her husband acceptance to her demands lands him in trouble, after which, she commands Laksmana to go after Rama, if not she would commit suicide. Thus, Sit a’s desire to dominate over all human creatures, including wild animals, confirms her selfish and defiant character. In a similar manner, Sita fights back against her husband after he rejects her.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Character analysis of Eve and Sita specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More For instance, Rama hurls insults to her after rescuing her from the wrath of Ravana. In retaliation, Sita decides to go back to the earth than staying with Rama. Therefore, although Eve is unfaithful, she is not domineering, as it is the case with Sita. Eve struggles to rebuild her marriage by turning into a submissive wife the husband had lacked before. Both Eve and Sita are inferior to their husbands, but they work hard to keep their marriages intact. While Eve pleads with Adam not to abandon her after committing sin, Sita follows her husband to exile to ensure they are always together. They both struggle to exp ress love to their husbands even when under tough conditions. Occasionally, they try to attempt suicide, but it is a deception to ensure their husbands come back to them. Therefore, the two playwrights used the female characters in their poems to educate the audience that women are the backbone of marriages. Conclusion In conclusion, the two authors use their female characters, Eve and Sita, to highlight the causes of failures of marriage in the society. Nevertheless, the comparative analysis of the two characters reveals that there is no perfect human being in the world but rather couples she strives to keep the fire burning in the marriage. Although the women in the two stories fail at some point, each of them struggles to maintain their marriage. While Milton uses Eve to pass on the message to other women in the society to take care of their marriages, Valmiki expresses the need of an ideal woman in a marriage. Finally, the authors express the weaknesses and strengths of women, w hich men in marriages should focus on in order to sustain their relationships. Works Cited Goldman, Robert. The Ramayana of Valmiki: An Epic of Ancient India: Balakanda. New Jersey: Princeton University Press, 1990. The Ramayana of Valmiki: Sundarakanda. New Jersey: Princeton University Press, 1996.Advertising Looking for essay on literature languages? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Milton, John.  Paradise Lost: An Authoritative Text, Backgrounds and Sources, Criticism. New York: W. W. Norton, 1975. Peltier, Mary. (1995) â€Å"Sita’s Story: In the Valmiki Ramayana.† Journal of Vaisnava Studies 4.6 (1995): 77-103. Print. 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Analysis of a Start

Analysis of a Start Introduction Technological innovations have influenced the manner in which people operate from roads to their offices. The rapid growth of technology seems to influence even the automotive and transport industry (Akhilesh 2013).Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Analysis of a Start-up Lyft specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Whereas several businesses and innovative ventures are emerging each day in the modern world, uniqueness and exclusivity are becoming an important factor in the growth and development of modern businesses (Osterwalder Pigneur 2013). Innovators regularly come up with new ideas, but their innovations rarely capture the market and consumers, and hence, they slowly plummet, because they fail to receive the expected adoption. With the changing trends in consumer preferences, competent businesses are emerging with tantalizing business models and products, and thus new technologies have found it un easy to penetrate the already explored markets (Louise 2013). A starting technology meets many challenges and fears among financiers over the emerging technological businesses, as they are normally unsure of its future commencement. Fundamental to such notions, this research provides a professional analysis of a start-up tech venture known as Lyft. Description of the Venture Lyft is a modern and privately owned tech venture that emerged through innovations in the cab transportation company, and it is currently gaining extensive support and fame across the American roads (Lyft 2014). Initiated during the summer of 2012, two innovators John Zimmer and Logan Green began the transport business and named it Zimride to offer passengers peer-to-peer ride sharing experiences (Lyft 2014).Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Zimmer and Green developed the Lyft transport system with a dream of enabling passengers save money, avoid congested city traffic, and bring communities together through rideshare transport program (Lyft 2014). The cabs form a system of transport network with the company affording to connect and match drivers with passengers, who have requested for a cab ride through the Lyft Android and iPhone mobile applications. Lyft promotes the venture by encouraging passengers to influence their friend to sign up and reward them with $25 on the subsequent ride. Using Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and background checks, Lyft screens drivers to assess their credibility and driving record standards in a stricter manner than the traditional taxis (Lyft 2014). Lyft taxis are unique because they receive voluntary donations from passengers, unlike traditional taxis that rely on cash payments. Deposited weekly into their bank accounts, these community drivers receive approximately 80% of the total donations that passengers voluntarily produ ce (Lyft 2014). Independent community drivers must have personal cars in good working condition and must possess Android phones or iPhone connected to passengers via the mobile applications. Business Model Canvas for the Venture In undertaking the professional analysis of Lyft as a new venture in America, this research paper uses the business model canvas to carry out the business analysis process.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Analysis of a Start-up Lyft specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Business model canvas is a modern form of the strategic entrepreneurial and management tool that allows businesspersons to challenge, design, describe, or even formulate and support their businesses (Manzano 2012). Business canvas model has several elements that help businesspersons to describe and analyze a business system. It encompasses an appraisal of business partners, key activities, key resources, value proposition s, customer relationships, business channels, revenue streams, customer segments, and the cost structure. Key Partners The key partners of Lyft business innovation are the core members, including the founder, John Zimmer, who oversees overall operations and progress, Amy Fox, who is in charge of partnership development, business counselor, Beth Stevens (Lyft 2014). Corey Owens is responsible for maintaining public policy, Bill Vainisi is the vice president, and deputy general counsel, Kedar Deshpande, is responsible for strategic initiatives, while Marzia Zafaris is the director of planning and policy (Lyft 2014). The community drivers, Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), insurance agencies and companies, and the passengers are also important partners of Lyft. Key Activities Lyft undertakes numerous activities to ensure the rideshare program becomes effective. The main activity is to provide efficient and cheap transport of passengers and building an effective rideshare community (L yft 2014). Lyft connects drivers and passengers technologically using Android and iPhone applications. The company collaborates with insurance companies and the Department of Motor Vehicles to enhance transportation safety (Lyft 2014).Advertising Looking for research paper on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Lyft ensures that they scrutinize drivers through background checks and analyzing driving record standards, uses technological app feedback to analyze driver rating by passengers, and ensures an active the $1,000,000 excess insurance program. Key Resources For the rideshare program to be effective, Lyft has been relying on numerous important assets and human resources. Human resources that are valued the most are the skilled drivers. The most important assets in the business are cars for taking passengers around designated locations (Lyft 2014). Lyft Transportation Company requires the Smartphones, especially Android phones, tablets, and iPhones that can support mobile applications, which connect drivers with passengers (Lyft 2014). Smartphones must have the independent Lyft applications installed as one of the most important recourses that the passengers use to invite friends, co-workers, and relatives. Value Propositions The intention of Lyft is large and unique in nature. Lyft ai ms at leveraging passengers to use charitable free lifts enable them to avoid pedestal walls that expose them to carbon inhalation, and finally bring unity among communities (Lyft 2014). Lyft business program aims at providing affordable, convenient rideshares, and improving the road safety through proper screening of credibility of drivers using criminal and background checks (Lyft 2014). Therefore, Lyft aims at reducing cost and risk of travel, while enhancing credibility of drivers and improving transit convenience for the passengers. Customer Relationships Lyft has a unique customer-business relationship that hinges upon trust as one of the most important virtues between the two actors, and it is useful for the emerging peer economy (Lyft 2014). Customers do not pay directly during service delivery, but willing donors send their contributions to the company after receiving free rides (Lyft 2014). Customers expect the taxi drivers to remain genuine during the offering of rides, a s the Lyft principles require them, but not make any cash payments during the free rides. Business Channels The mobile phone technology in Lyft is an important innovation as it builds the central business channel (Lyft 2014). Customers remain connected through the Lyft mobile applications that act as the platform for social connection. The Smartphones connect customers and drivers, and thus provide a means of enabling Lyft to assess the credibility of community drivers through a rating of 1 out of five rides scale (Lyft 2014). Passengers capable of bringing friends to free ride get $25 free credit for the next ride. Revenue Streams Revenue streams involve means of generating income within the business. The Lyft free rideshare program has ensured satisfaction among customers and since the payment is voluntary donation, the passengers are of different economic class and capable of giving higher amounts than from direct service charges (Lyft 2014). The voluntary community contribution exceeds what ordinary taxis generate through direct service charges, as passengers give based on their willingness and financial abilities (Lyft 2014). Customer Segments Each business, according to economists, has its own customer segment (Osterwalder Pigneur 2013). Lyft has a business customer segment that focuses on the niche business platform, as it targets specifically the passengers. In the niche market, business relationships between consumers and service or goods providers rely solely on the specific necessities of the positioned market (Osterwalder Pigneur 2013). Lyft focuses on developing the passenger community and providing them with affordable and reliable taxi transport system. The Cost Structure Cost structure in business model canvas is the cost incurred in running the business model. Lyft business model seeks to eliminate the notion of pay service in the taxi transport network, as its most important duty is to make city rides cost-effective to passengers (Lyft 2014 ). The cost structure of the business model is therefore variable, as the service. The provision does not rely on fixed payments, but relies on the voluntary community donations prior to free peer-to-peer rideshare service. The donations vary depending on individual donors. Table 1: The Business Model Canvas Key Partners Founder John Zimmer, Logan Green, Corey Owens, others Community Lyft drivers DMV and insurance companies Key Activities Free rides Driver screening Partnering with insurances Value proposition charitable free lifts safe driving suitable driving protecting passengers form carbon cost effective rides Customer Relationships Communities Trust Understanding Honesty Customer Segments Niche business platform Concerned particularly with passengers Key resources Human resources Capital resources Cars and vans Channels Phone apps Technology Cost Structure Variable and unpredictable as it entails donations Revenue Streams Brokerage fees, Advertising a nd Negotiation SWOT Analysis for the Venture SWOT, which is a renowned business analysis tool, stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats, and assesses the entrepreneurial model of a business system (Dyson 2004). Fundamentally, SWOT analyzes capabilities, limitations, chances, and risks that businesses experience. This section of the term paper presents a professional assessment of Lyft business system using the SWOT analysis tool. Strengths of Lyft Tech Venture The main strength of Lyft tech venture is that it serves on a unique and modernized business system that relies on simple mobile phone technology, which connects targeted consumers and drivers. As the use of Smartphones is increasing and their demand is very high, it provides a platform for Lyft to flourish. The Lyft mobile applications rooted in modern and trendy Smartphones enable consumers to enjoy easy communication, connection, convenience, and reliability with service providers. Lyft is a modern te chnology business that also understands the aspect of sociability in the business. Weaknesses of Lyft Tech Venture The foremost weakness that is likely to hamper a smooth development of the Lyft technology venture is dishonesty. Many passengers that may require the rideshare program are youngsters, whose capacity to give voluntary donations remain limited. Due to such notions, the future of the technology venture relies on donations to pay community drivers. Since youths and teenagers may misuse the joy rides, the venture may suffer financial constraints as the misuse hampers its sustainability. Opportunities of Lyft Tech Venture A young technology venture with great innovative ideas has great advancement opportunities. As the business model is still young, the ideas are fresh in the market, involve active and youthful population, it has many opportunities in technology markets, which seem underexploited. The cost-effective approach tailored to community may assist to generate enorm ous market fame and substantial consumer reputation, which may support its future progress in other potential markets. Moreover, Smartphones are increasingly becoming valuable and its consumption is rising. Threats to the Lyft Tech Venture Technology is ever changing because Smartphones appeared has just appeared in the markets, while iPhone and Androids may vanish as technology transforms. The modern technology is also prone to piracy since strict regulations are not in place to handle copyright infringements. Competition is a significant threat to the success and progress of Lyft, as several taxi companies in the transport system are emerging. As consumers familiarize with modern technologies and Smartphone applications are easy to make, too much reliance on the Smartphone and mobile apps may raise security issues in future. Analysis of the Ventures Team Lyft emerged following innovations of two John Zimmer and Logan Green who are the core founders of the Zimride business program. However, Lyft has an advanced venture team of more than ten members, but the five main members comprise: John Zimmer and Logan Green- Co-founders of Lyft Amy Fox- responsible for partnership development in Lyft Beth Stevens- acts as general counsel of Sidecar Corey Owens- works for public policy in Uber Bill Vainisi- acts as the Senior Vice President at Allstate Insurance John Zimmer and Logan Green John Zimmer is a resident of San Francisco and the co-founder of Zimride program. Zimmer went to Cornell University, an institution renowned for intellectual development and broad research and developing innovative future leaders (Zimride 2008). He had once worked with Lehman Brothers Holdings Inc, a financial company that offered global financial-services and investment banking until when it went bankrupt in 2008. Logan Green is also the co-founder of Zimride. Logan Green graduated at university of California at Santa Barbara and has once worked as a sustainability coordinator at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) and a board member of Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District (Zimride 2008). Green had a high motivation in the transportation industry. Logan grew up within Southern California and frequently spent most of his time stuck in heavy traffic that always insinuated him. Logan noticed the rising demand for ridesharing program as at the same time annoyed by the empty cabs and people walking on foot (Zimride 2008). Out of his inspiration to change transportation system, Logan Greene began the Zimride in 2007, when he launched his first car-share program around Santa Barbra. Following the successful adoption and integration of the Zimride, a Business week program recognized Logan Green as Top 25 Entrepreneurs in business economics from the Santa Barbara region (Zimride 2008). Being a Lyft driver, Logan Green has had a dream of transforming the world transport system through 80% achievement of the Zimride. Conclusion and Recommendations fo r Crossing the Chasm Conclusively, following an increase in risks associated with venturing in new business innovations, it is increasing becoming uneasy for financiers from topmost venture capital companies to fund these new businesses without proof of future progression. An emergent innovation must show proof that the technology will get a market reputation (Warford 2004). After a proper analysis of Lyft tech venture using business model canvas and the SWOT assessment tools, Lyft venture has to do much to ensure diffusion of innovation of the emergent Zimride program. Target Customer Although the Zimride and the Lyft tech venture have targeted the most diverse and needy market that is the transport industry, members should remain cautious about the preference and abilities of the targeted consumers (Louise 2013). From an analytical view, peer-to-peer rideshare may involve the youthful population that is incapable of providing donations that are imperative for paying Lyft community drivers. Teenagers may enjoy the riding offered, and therefore, change of policies may be necessary. Compelling reason to buy The global traffic industry is ever growing as few individuals can afford personal cars even to date. Offering free rides to the needy travelers daily across the cities makes Zimride a unique business venture that may survive for quite some decades. The population of America is swelling with many medium class individuals seeking jobs in towns and cities, but unable to afford personal rides. To improve trust to the Zimride, certain payment standards should prevail to discourage joy riders. Competition Zimride has provided the best solution to passengers, who experience inconvenience from the costly pay cab drivers. Just as people have adopted and exhausted other technologies, the same technological innovation may undergo manipulation to design a different innovation, as Americans are still technologically suave (Zimride 2008). People may fear ridesharing with people they are unfamiliar with and this may provide a chance for new tech businesses to take over the transit system. Partners and allies The Zimride program has already started receiving external support and donors. The relationship with other independent companies is increasing. However, Zimride and other supportive programs may not have the capacity to continue influencing people to use their personal highly valued cars for the Zimride program. Zimride requires highly moral drivers who cannot ask for cash payments to take people for the peer-to-peer riding privileges. To ensure smooth progress, Lyft and Zimride program must strengthen its operational policies. References Akhilesh, K 2013, Emerging Dimensions of Technology Management, Springer, London. Dyson, R 2004, ‘Strategic development and SWOT analysis at the University of Warwick’, European Journal of Operational Research, vol. 152, no. 3, pp. 631–640. Louise, M 2013, ‘A knowledge exchange and dif fusion of innovation (KEDI) model for primary production’, British Food Journal, vol. 115, no. 4, pp. 614-631. Lyft: Providence: Warm, Fuzzy Rides Coming Your Way 2014. Web. Manzano, G, Ayala, J, Castresana, J, Parras, M 2012 ‘Factors Affecting the Growth of New Firms: A Multidisciplinary Perspective’, Journal of Management Studies, vol. 46, no. 4, pp.16-20. Osterwalder, A Pigneur, Y 2013, Business Model Generation: A Handbook for Visionaries, Game Changers, and Challengers, John Wiley Sons, London. Warford, M 2004, ‘Testing a Diffusion of Innovations in Education Model (DIEM)’, The Innovation Journal, vol.10, no.3, pp.1-41. Zimride: A carpool community 2008. Web.

Upcoming presidential election Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Upcoming presidential election - Essay Example This will keep on affecting the US in a negative manner since the superpower nation of the world is already seen as a very racially discriminating nation and McCain’s win will only deter the cause of having some sanity within the relevant folds. Hence there would not be much change if John McCain actually takes the coveted seat, come November 4th, 2008. If Barack Obama seals the spot as the next President of the United States, there will be a huge difference in the way the world sees the racial relations, the race dogma, the attitudes that exist and just about everything which comes under the related settings. This is because Obama is a black himself and he knows that if he becomes the next President of US, he will be the first black to take over such a position – a position that commands respect the world over. The blacks will mark this success as a form of struggle that would see the light of the day and they will celebrate it in an aggressive way. Indeed all other communities except the whites would consider this as a very good omen for the next 4 years in the world’s political scenario. It will affect race and the whole talk related with it if either of the two wins. This is because there is a black Presidential candidate and having him as the President of the US would mean success for the people who have struggled long and hard for their rights the world over. Since this is the first time one such black candidate is vying for this post, McCain’s position is also under the cover. If he gets successful on November 4th, this would mean that the blacks and the minority groups the world over are defeated once again. (Green, 2008) The racial discussion has centered on the premise of personality differences between the two Presidential hopefuls and not on their policies or other significant subjects, which at the end of the day are also equally pivotal in the time and age of today. Thus in the end, the racial discussions will actually come to the fore no

Aboriginal history Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Aboriginal history - Coursework Example A survey was conducted that revealed that 38% of children were taken away from their families. Many families are still in search of their members, and many of them never had a chance to see each other again; this has caused the natives an immense emotional stress. This practice has led to the erosion of the nation’s culture and values; this is termed as the ‘Stolen Generation’ by the historians2. Keeping in mind the history of Australia, it is essential to have a vast knowledge of the aboriginal history for a teacher to hand down the facts of the existence of the land where people dwell and to reclaim the culture that was lost to the bills and acts passed by the European invaders3. Teaching the history of Aborigines will make the students familiar with the legacy, culture and norms of their country and the ongoing impact of colonialism on the society that they have become today. It will contribute to their knowledge that their identity dates back to 40,000 years ago; they will know that they belong to one of the oldest cultures in the world. Moreover, students have to face linguistic barriers which contribute to the trends of attendance; however, evidence suggests that the use of their native language influences the numeric figures greatly. Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) released a report which suggested that learning Torres Strait Islander, or Aboriginal, language could contribute to the academic results for all the students. Therefore, non-indigenous students will develop a significant knowledge of the cultural dissimilarities and mutual respect along with gaining insight into the history of the land where they live4. The historic accounts will also help the teachers to know the trick to teach Aboriginal students. Many schools in Australia have white teachers who do not know the history of Aborigines. Therefore, they misinterpret the behavior of the Aboriginal children; for example, it is against ethics to have an eye contact with

International fashion marketing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

International fashion marketing - Essay Example Top shop has an international marketing department that is in charge of advertising the products in their areas of interest. I am part of the international marketing department for Top shop and our role is to make individuals aware of the products we sell, doing research on how to make more sales, identifying with the culture of the people in different countries, and using efficient advertisement means such as online operations to ensure that we reach all kinds of customers. This paper is going to discuss the benefits and cultural norms that need to be considered by Top shop when advertising in China, Japan, and United States of America. I will compare and contrast the requirements needed to establish successful markets in the three countries by discussing their cultural norms and beliefs that need to be considered when advertising different fashion commodities. The international marketing department for Top Shop is required to approach people with the respect they deserve to gain their attention. For instance, the when advertising in different countries, their cultural values and norms need to be considered in order to make them learn how to use the products and buy them. Choi (2012) stated that Chinese people have strict rules regarding their cultural values and their behavior and clothing depict their ancient traditional culture depending with the time and region. Advertising fashion products in China requires an individual to address the people with etiquette. Choi (2012) stated that family, social, and professional titles follow the name always rather than preceding it. It is discourteous to call people by their last names and first names, unless they are on familiar terms with you and when asked. The advertisers only need to use the surname followed by the title of the Chinese associates or friends when trying to introduce a product the customers. The Chinese people use handshakes as a form of

Effect of Military Takeover on Thailands Businesses

Effect of Military Takeover on Thailands Businesses HOW MILITARY TAKE OVER IN THAILAND WILL AFFECT DOING BUSINESS IN THE COUNTRY RISHI RAJ [DM15141] ROHIT KUMAR GOEL [DM15142] GLIMPSE OF POLITICAL FORMATION Thailand, was known as Siam till 1939, for around 5,000 years it had been inhabited with the earliest civilization believed to be that of the Mons in central Siam, even though the first Siam state is the Theravada Buddhist kingdom of Sukohthai. Among the most glorious periods in its history was the reign of Ayutthaya, which was established in 1351 by King Ramathibodi. During that time it was one of the centers of trade and commerce in Southeast Asia, Ayutthaya allure the disdain of the Burmese, and they conquered the kingdom twice in the 16thand 18thcenturies. During the second invasion, the capital of Siam was looted, laid to waste, and left in demolishes, a pale phantom of its aged glory. Thailand has one of the oldest existing monarchies, and in 1782 by King Rama I the current Chakri dynasty was founded with the capital shifting for the first time to Bangkok. During the 20thcentury saw the dawn of immense change in Thailand. King Mongkut (Rama IV) was instrumental in developing a strategy that enabled them to avoid the yoke of imperialism that overtook Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam –Siam’s closest neighbors. The King’s strategy was simple: his ministers signed unequal treaties that gave free trade, additional rights, and special advantages to imperial powers liketheU.S., Great Britain, Japan and France. The consequence was that by playing each one of these powers to one another, Siam figured to maintain its independence. A peaceful coup revolved the country into a constitutional monarchy in 1932, as earlier Siam now known as Thailand in 1939. Controversially, During World War II Thailand sided with Japan. The period following the war was a chaotic one for Thailand as it battled a number of military coups even as dissatisfaction rose against inexperienced public officials, food shortages and rising inflation. The democratic elections of 1979 had its first period of stability, as the economy sturdy with the crumble of military rule. The country was rocked by several coups over the next two decades before violent demonstrations in February 1991 forced the military to relinquish power to a civilian government led by Chuan Leekpai, leader of the Prachatipat (Democrat) Party. He is credited with starting the methodology of making a totally new constitution, and initiated a few changes that led to Thailand having one of the highest growth rates during this period. At the turn of the 20thcentury, a relatively unknown party called the Thai Rak Thai Party (TRT) led by the charismatic Thaksin Shinawatra came to power on the promise of economic reforms. Thaksin delivered on his promises but was unyielding by allegations of mass corruption. Then the tsunami that hit Southeast Asia in December 2004 affected Thailand too, it caused nearly 5,000 deaths, and eroded a major source of its revenue which came from tourism. General Sonthi Boonyaratkalin led a bloodless coup in 2006, overthrow the unpopular Thaksin and leading to fresh elections in December 2007. A new party called the People’s Power Party, consisting large members of the disintegrated TRT, won the majority number of seats under the leadership of Samak Sundaravej, came into power in February 2008 and lead 6 party coalition. And then was replaced by Somchai Wongsawat as Sundaravej had violated the constitution by hosting a television cooking show and had to step down. The People’s Alliance for Democracy (PAD) stated that both Sundaravej and Wongsawat were puppets of Thaksin. There were repeated protests held in Bangkok since May 2008 and five months long protests considerably weakened the government’s ability to implement policy. Matters came to a head when the PAD overtook the Bangkok International Airport in November, leaving around 350,000 travelers unattended which resulted in a good loss of tourism revenue and wielded a body blow to the country’s image. Eventually, opposition leader Abhisit Vejjajiva of Democrat Party become Thailand’s t hird prime minister within four months duration. Thailand’s GDP Growth Rate, over the last few years CONTEXT The financial crisis that broke off in Thailand in 1997 has not only brought on the need to understand the immediate genesis and possible cures of the crisis, but also a more fundamental question as to what had gone wrong with the growth process leading to the crisis or due to some of the subtle imbalances in macroeconomic management, or was it inadequate technological advancements in the right directions? Could it be flaws in the design and operation of some of the political/economic/social systems or institutions, furnishing the whole economic system vulnerable to major economic shocks? Final answers to the above questions are difficult to obtained, or agreed upon. However, one can begin to pursue the answers by first trying to understand the historical aspects of the growth process of Thai economy. The probability of getting the right answers can also be enhanced substantially by comparing its experiences with those Asian economies that have gone through the similar path of growth and crisis, and also with those that were much less hit by the crisis. Studies on sources of economic growth of East and South East Asian countries are numerous. On the more recent account, Hahn and Kim (2000) argue that macroeconomic policies, trade policies and, especially, institutional quality, are important in ‘explaining’ East Asian high economic growth during 1960-1990†. The purpose is to look into accounts of the past fifty years, from 1950-2000, of changes in policies and environments in Thailand that are potentially crucial to the understanding of the growth process. The Thai economic history is divided into four sub-periods for the same: I) 1950-1973, which is the period that Thailand laid foundations for the subsequent high and stable economic growth. II) 1974-1985, which is the period of macroeconomic uncertainty, hardship and difficult adjustments. III) 1986-1996, which is the decade of extraordinary high growth. IV) 1997-2000, which is time of economic crisis. FRAMEWORK: THE MILITARY RULE GDP is now growing, albeit slowly. Military rule has its benefits as new policies look to be moving Thailand in the right direction. At the beginning of this year, THD hinged, and has since been on a steady rise and the ETF is up 31.51% YTD. Driving this growth is an economy that continues to grow, ignoring political turmoil. The economy has reversed course and is now growing. In a recent Wall Street Journal it reported that Thailands gross domestic product from April through June likely grew 1% over the previous period. Consumer confidence is skyrocketingas the government pushes a campaign to return to happiness. Thailand may be happy with their military ruling, but elections in the future are likely to upset many. TheThai baht is risingto its highest levels since November. Weak monsoon rains in India have allowed Thailand toreclaim its status as the worlds top rice exporter, hopefully enabling the country to offload rice purchased in preceding years through government subsidy programs. Military rule has its merits. Manygrey industries are under attack from the military government, who has declared a ‘War on Vice’. Reasons for this crackdown may be political, but the results should be commendable. Six weeks ago, Thai army Chief Prayuth Chan-ochaannounced a military gained control of power. The constitution was left aside, and leaving the monarchy in place. Army soon re-examine, though, and kept much of the 2007 constitution. This also included sections handling with the succession of the monarchy. This was 14th successful coup after 1932’s absolute monarchy end. The bloodless coup followed months of mass protests andchaos in governmentbefore Yingluck Shinawatra wasforced to resignas PM. This was provoked bygovernment last November attemptsto restore a fully elected senate and extend an amnesty that would have enabled convicted former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra to return from exile eight years after being deposed. It has been reported that in effect the military takeover was executed on behalf of the royal network or old elite. Journalist Andrew Mac Gregor Marshalldepicts an enormous struggle over access to the tremendous wealth controlled by the palace, specially by the Crown Property Bureau, between the old world class and that hosts underpinned Thaksins Pheu Thai gathering and exploited its general population supporters. The key to such access, is control of the royal succession and control over the national assembly. People’s Democratic Reform Committee lead by Suthep Thaugsuban, who also headed the protests, isbelieved to have been plotting with Prayuth since 2010 to bring down the Thaksin regime. 4. THE IMPACT OF MILITARY RULE Since the takeover, the army has invited critical journalists, protestors, supporters and academics of the last government, with members of the red shirt movement – as well as some PDRC leaders. With prohibiting habeas corpus and the customary civil rights, the regime hasdetained people who publicly opposeits exercises. Several local TV and radio stations are off the air. The army is rumored to be planning severe control of the internet. It was reported from Bangkok post that panels taken from the armed services and others will watch all media. The citizenry has been muted in its reactions to the coup. The red shirts have back down from the streets of Bangkok and even indicated some willingness to participate in the army’s reconciliation games. Authorities banned the three-finger sign that was adopted as a sign of disagreement. Occasional rumpus have occurred between soldiers and the few citizens flout the ban. Citizens are promoted to give photos to the junta of persons who do so. The army has acted quickly to give rice farmers their belated payment for the last yielded crop. Civil servants can be heard praising the fact that projects are running again after enormous delays under the previous government. The army claims it is checking large projects for corruption and malfeasance. A three-finger salute showing disagreeing against military rule To keep the public happy, the army is to review fuel and energy prices. During the World Cup, authoritiesurgedall matches be screened free to air and agreed to compensate the cable network owners of the broadcast rights. The military takeover caused an enormous efflux of Cambodians working illicitly in Thailand. The army very soon sought to silent the fears and promote the return of the workers to the multitude of enterprises that have come to rely on them, as long as they get visas and work permits . 5. THE COUP AND THE NATIONAL DIVIDE Young people migrating to Bangkok from Thailand’s north and north-east are not as committed to the red-shirt movement or as likely to be enlisted into a Thaksinist party as their parents were over the last two decades. The emphasis was on getting good jobs and career opportunities on the back of improved rural education. Likewise, Bangkok’s middle class of business owners, professionals and civil servants are primarily committed to high incomes and stylish consumption. One can argue, both groups wanted corruption to end and the old order of entitlements and to get on with effective economic management and social justice, as long as someone else goes to the trouble. With the current scenario, the coup can appear as a required straightening out in advance of restoration of parliamentary democracy, which itself is seen as being as much about protectingrelations with the USas anything else. The army claims to be capable of reconciling red shirts and supporters of the previous government and PDRC. There is uncertainty in what it proposes to do. Some moves have inferred charges of army bias while others have raised wry smiles. The army believes it can appoint 200 members from all important sections of the community to a new national assembly who will be willing to settle. The last coup was only eight years before, the new constitution, subsequent constitutional assembly, and restoration of parliamentary democracy. Regardless of all that exertion, important structures have not changed. A new national assembly won’t change these foundations which would require steps such as effectively redistributing income through reform of the land tax, directing more resources to education and health care in rural and suburban areas; providing social security to the poor; securing farmland by better land-use regulation; and using government initiatives and resources to realize opportunities created by a newASEAN Economic Community. The trafficking and misuse of illegal migrants can’t be allowed in order to provide a dishonorable floor to incomes of Thais throughout the country. STRATEGY CONTEXT Export led economy Major exports are electronics, vehicles, machinery and equipment and agri products Main Trading Partners Japan (10% of total exports, 20% of total imports), China (12% of exports, 15% of imports). European Union, US Malaysia Focus on increasing trade between its neighbors through bi lateral agreements Free enterprise economy with pro investment policies and strong export industries Trying to stabilize growth by promoting domestic consumption and public investment Founding members of WTO and ASEAN and also a member of APEC and IMT-GT Current Strategy: Promote industries that have high domestic value-added and can find niches in the world economy Following cluster model in certain Industries such as Automobile and Tourism Redirected its 5yr plan towards a holistic people oriented development model philosophy of a Sufficiency Economy Focus on upgrading educational policy, strengthening agricultural sector, and restructuring the economy with an emphasis on Green Growth Focus on strengthening infrastructure and banking system CONCLUSION: STRENGTHS CHALLENGES Location helps in easy trade and attracts tourists. The fertile land helps in agriculture and these products are exported to many countries. Well-developed infrastructure Diversified, high performance production in agriculture and industry- highly dynamic country. It is moving upmarket in manufactured goods Opening local hub for dynamic neighbours Growing middle class Particularly strong medical industry that is turning into a major foreign exchange earner for the country and a generator of â€Å"medical tourism† The agricultural sector Strong contributor to the economy and a buffer that can absorb surplus labor from urban areas during cyclical downturns. Thailand is far ahead of other ASEAN countries in attracting foreign direct investment into the automotive sector and supporting industries Foreign trade subject to competition from China. Rise of neighbours like Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar, Laos, Indonesia and Malaysia Thailand’s Taxation : It’s corporate tax rate of 30 percent is more than that of its neighbours The relative costs of energy, transportation and logistics is very high, linked with global oil prices High hidden costs in the business sector due to corruption of politicians and government officers. Business climate marked by continuous ties among the private sector and politics circles. Recurring political volatility since 2006 A well-functioning legal framework is not secure in place, and the judiciary continues to be unprotected to political interference Worst income inequality in Asia Susceptible to short-run volatilities in world trade and output Education system is unable to prepare graduates suitable for the labour market DISCUSSION: LOGISTICS PERFORMANCE INDEX Productivity of customs clearance of Thailand is 2.96 ranking 42 globally. Efficiency of customs clearance of Thailand is similar to that of Slovenia, Cyprus, Croatia, Uruguay, Bulgaria, , Georgia, Slovak Republic, Pakistan, Uganda Czech Republic with a respective Logistics performance index Efficiency of customs clearance had a negative growth (decline) of 1.99% since the end of the Great Recession Quality of trade and transport of Thailand is 3.08 ranking 43 globally. Quality of trade and transport of Thailand is similar to that of Morocco, Poland, Malta, Bahrain, Egypt, Brazil, Hungary, Mexico, Slovak Republic Cyprus, with a corresponding Logistics performance index Quality of trade and transport had a negative growth (decline) of 2.53% since the end of the Great Recession Frequency with which shipments reach consignee within scheduled or expected time of Thailand is 3.63 ranking 39 globally. DISCUSSION: FDI FII Thailands financial liberalization in 1990. moderate recuperation after the 1997 crisis, FDIs part got to be considerably more vital in helping re-capitalizing failing industries, assisted with policy reforms Thaiboard of Investment(BOI) offers an arrangement of motivators in six modern sectors. (Agriculture and food; Renewable and alternative energies; Electronics, information and communication technologies; Fashion; Automobile High added value services) As per TNCs top prospective most recent Survey, Thailand is ranked among the Top 10 prospective host economies for foreign investments. BOI Incorporates exemptions on corporate income tax (for a maximum of eight years), and import tariffs on equipment, machinery and raw materials. From 2006 to 2009 Thailand saw the highest and the lowest FDI contribution to GDP. In 2006 it was 16.2% while in till 2009 because of crisis it was reduced to the lowest of mere 5% of GDP. Thailands political crisis likewise assumes a vital part in affecting sharp falls of FDI inflows from 2006 onwards. our observation is that, of course, the normal FDI to GDP degree of the industrial sector is the most noteworthy (1.37 percent), took after by FDI to GDP proportion of the service segment (0.25 percent). and Agriculture FDI to GDP proportion is just 0.01 percent. Thus for an agricultural Economy to be a continuously growing should be more focused on the agricultural FDI. The Major Drive for Foreign Investment is The low cost of labor and relatively low exchange rate REFERENCES www.businessinsideer.in www.thatembassy.ca South China Morning Post Articles www.tradingeconomics.com Past, Present Prospects for Thailand’s Growth, Sra Don, Bank of Thailand

Self Discovery in Breakfast of Champions :: Breakfast of Champions Essays

Self Discovery in Breakfast of Champions   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     In Brandon Boyd’s Make Yourself he states that â€Å" if [he] hadn’t assembled [himself] than [he] would’ve fallen apart,† implying that if one does not take the time to understand and build his or her own values and morals then one will live in confusion and falter. Throughout Vonnegut’s Breakfast of Champions, Kilgore Trout goes through the process of realizing who he is and then learns to remain true to himself. At first Trout is a pessimist who strives to be heard. Trout then begins to question human ways and while doing so finds a few answers about not only them but him as well.     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   In the beginning Trout comes off as a pessimistic unknown writer. One of his most popular works, Plague on Wheels was sold for twelve dollars for the pictures alone. Later people would pay only a dollar for it, but this time â€Å"for the words†. Trout is in awe about the way that people work. In Plague on Wheels he expresses the ideas and ways of humans and then refers to them as â€Å" cuckoo†. He cannot understand why people do such ridiculous things such as, â€Å"[agree] with friends to express friendliness† and everyone else follows. He sees that people feel the need to conform for acceptance and this annoys him. In his story he also cites the time of which â€Å"Earthlings discovered tools†, referring to guns. Trout points out that the â€Å"tools† only purpose is â€Å"to make holes in human beings†, this seeming extremely ridiculous to him. Realizing all of this bothers Trout immensely and puts him in a bitter state.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Kilgore Trout proceeds in watching the actions of humans. He realizes that he is no longer innocent, â€Å" his head is no longer just sheltered ideas.† Trout sees things for what they are and knows that he has deal with that. He must learn to form his own opinions and ideas. When Trout actually looks back and realizes how sheltered people are at the beginning of life it â€Å"scares the bejesus† out of him. He realizes that when we are so protected that it leaves us extremely vulnerable. Trout begins to question certain human ideas, one being the â€Å"creator of the universe.† Trout takes interest in trying to figure out who in fact is the creator.

Macbeth and Frankenstein comparison Essay

Both Victor and Macbeth have great qualities. Victor is smart and curious. He wants to fight disease and discover the mysteries of nature. Macbeth has a high ranking in society and has authority. They are both very well off and have good families but get greedy and end up ruining what they have. Macbeth gets carried away with his experiments and ends up losing all of his family and friends, and dies in the end of the story. The same thing happens to Macbeth. He gets carried away with his thirst for power, that he kills people even after he gains the throne, and ends up losing his friends and family, and also dies in the end of the story. Both Macbeth and Frankenstein are powerful, ambitious characters. However, they have very different ambitions and desires. Macbeth’s ambition is to become king by committing murder whereas Frankenstein’s is to create life. For example â€Å"I will pioneer a new way, explore unknown powers, and unfold to the world the deepest mysteries of creation.† -Victor Frankenstein, chapter 3 Frankenstein. â€Å"Stars, hide your fires; Let not light see my black and deep desires.† -Macbeth, act 1 scene 4 Macbeth. Frankenstein wants to create something innovative and astonishing, something that he can be remembered for and something that will push the boundaries of life and science. This is evident when he says, â€Å"pioneer a new way† and â€Å"unfold to the world the deepest mysteries.† We can understand why Frankenstein is driven by creative ambition when he uses the word â€Å"pioneer† which indicates to the reader that he wants to be the â€Å"leader† of this science in the future and wants to make progress beyond existing limits. Furthermore, the word â€Å"deepest† does have some connotations of â€Å"dark† and â€Å"unknown;† this could be foreshadowing to the reader what is to come. Unlike Frankenstein, Macbeth is completely consumed by his ambition to kill. He has to commit murder to achieve his goals and his ambition is a major factor in what leads him to do so. Macbeth is already in a highly regarded position within his kingdom, but once he has had a taste of this newfound power, his desire for more cannot be stopped. â€Å"Stars,† in the eyes of a Jacobean audience, would suggest something heavenly or Godly. So by saying this it is almost blasphemes: Macbeth is asking God to turn a blind eye on what he is about to do and asking that his true, evil intentions not be understood by his peers, â€Å"black and deep  desires.† Both Macbeth and Frankenstein, to their respective audiences, would have been viewed as people defying the boundaries of life and humanity. The stories of â€Å"Macbeth† and Frankenstein are two texts depicting the life and tragic flaws of the two main characters which bring them to an eventual downfall. The two pieces of writing have both similar and different characteristics between them. It can be argued that the texts present much of the same story line, only written in very different time periods. Shakespeare’s famous play, â€Å"Macbeth†, was written in 1606 in honour of King James’ coronation, while Mary Shelley’s, Frankenstein was written as a gothic novel in 1818. Despite the different time periods that they were written in, both of the stories contain a dark and supernatural atmosphere which evokes feelings of terror in readers. â€Å"Macbeth† and Frankenstein share similar quests and tragic flaws, but the treatment of their loved ones is very different. In regards to the quests of the ‘monsters’ in each story, they are very similar in a number of different ways. In Shakespeare’s tale, Macbeth’s quest was that of power. He was bent on being king, so much so that he compromised everything to become the king. All of his ambition and efforts were directed at becoming king and staying king. To him, this required the murder of the previous king, King Duncan. Later on we see that he has even more innocent men, women, and children killed in hopes of sealing his position of power. For example, Banquo and McDuff’s wife and children were murdered at Macbeth’s orders because they directly or indirectly posed a threat to his throne. In Frankenstein’s case, his quest is simply to have power over death. He successfully creates life from death, but fails to see the long-term consequences for his actions, resulting in much more death than life. In both cases, the characters were aiming for a goal that can easily lead to compromise and ruin, and that is the goal of power. It is in no way wrong to have a desire to become king or strive to discover a way to overcome sickness and disease, but when those desire’s get out of control and there is simply too much ambition, then often the measures that are taken to achieve these desires are wrong. For example, Frankenstein made  the mistake of prioritizing his creation over his relationship to Elizabeth, his fiancà ©e. Macbeth also sacrifices his reputation and integrity to become king for a short period of time filled with internal struggle and guilt. As you can see, both of the ‘monsters’ end up sacrificing things that they shouldn’t have in order to achieve their goals. One of the biggest differences between the two stories is the way in which the characters treat their loved ones, the ones they hold dear to themselves. In both cases, neither of our characters treated them very well. In Frankenstein’s case, the ones that he cared about or should have cared about most were his beloved Elizabeth, his father, his brother, and best friend, Henry Clerval. Throughout the entire novel, Frankenstein is completely consumed by his creation of the monster. First of all, he isolates himself from his loved ones to create the monster, and abandons them more and more as he becomes depressed and later embarks on another project to appease the monster he has created. Finally, he realizes that as a result of abandoning his own creation and abandoning his family and friends, he has lost them all. In Macbeth’s case, his loved one, Lady Macbeth, was deeply involved in his wrong actions and even inspired some of them. She was the master mind behind the plot to assassinate King Duncan and convinced Macbeth to do the deed. After all the shedding of innocent blood, the long and sleepless nights, and the never ending struggle with guilt, Lady Macbeth took her own life, leaving Macbeth alone to face his much deserved death. Instead of looking out for his wife, Macbeth instead abandons her to hopelessness and ultimate despair as he murderously presses on in his quest for power. In conclusion, after looking taking a little closer by comparing and contrasting them these two texts, we can discover that they have their similarities and their differences. Both Macbeth and Frankenstein share a similar quest, and that is the quest for power. They also both have the same weaknesses of too much ambition and not enough integrity. However, we can also see that the characters differ in regards to how they treat their loved ones. Macbeth includes his wife in his evil deeds, resulting in her death. Frankenstein abandons the monster and excludes his family and friends,  resulting in their deaths too. Therefore, it could be said that â€Å"Macbeth† and Frankenstein share similar quests and tragic flaws, but the treatment of their loved ones is very different.

Social Identities

Music and the Construction of Personal/Social Identities Introduction Music is seen an essential communication channel. It offers a means through which individuals and groups can share their aims, values and emotions even though the spoken languages might be mutually incomprehensible. Music further provides dynamic links for human interactions, particularly individuals whose distinctive wants make other communication means rather difficult or demanding.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Music and the Construction of Personal/Social Identities specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Nowadays, music plays a more significant role in shaping individuals lives as compared to any other historical period. This can be attributed to the rapid technological advancements and increasing economic influence of the music industry. Despite the relative difference between the current and the past music experience, it is clear that music has increasingly been used in the construction of the youthsâ €™ identities. This paper presents an overview of the studies that have supported the increasing knowledge and appreciation of the role of music in constructing the youth identities. The process does not simply involve aspects of personal identity, but equally includes the essential social aspects relating to ethnicity and race, family such as peers versus parents, school, status and gender. Structural cultural context Youth encounter a series of indulgence desires and essential social world thoughts in their development. The orientation spheres shape the way young people use media, particularly music (Eyerman and Jamison 466). Four dimensions that have been identified to be of a great essence in shaping youth identities include ethnicity and race, family (peers versus parents), school and status as well as gender and sexuality. Ethnicity and race While music such as Blues and Jazz have been associated with the black musicians for quite some time, the connection between ethnicit y and audience of the popular music which was common in the U.S. did not emerge in Europe till 1970s. Besides, Ska and soul music emerged in the 1960s and 1970s yet they did not construct the youths’ identity so much. However, the triumph of reggae music in the 1970s showed that there were ethnically non-European subcultures that used music to reinforce their identities. Reggae music was deeply immersed with Rastafarian inspirations since it was a remonstration music intended to draw attention of the youthful blacks who came from the remote cities.Advertising Looking for essay on social sciences? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Even though Rasta was commonly found in some European cities, the Rastafarian movement unveiled its most noticeable existence in Britain. It was the most undisputed socially significant development in Britain because it served its purpose as an important source of identity for the margi nalized youthful blacks (Danesi 67). Thus, youthful blacks use reggae music to identify and distinguish themselves from any kind of the whites’ racialism. However, few exceptions have been noted regarding the use of music by the marginalized youth. For instance, youths have used music to set the ethnic and race boundaries. A clear illustration is in Western Europe where it is very complicated to question the cultural and ideological youths’ association in different ethnicities. The use of music by the marginalized ethnic groups is absolutely too patchy. It is only obvious that mediated popular cultures and media discourses play considerable roles in modeling the manner in which the ethnically based groups observe each other. While music might assist in dissolving ethnic boundaries, it may occasionally strengthen and even help in shaping them (Eyerman and Jamison 452). Youths from different ethnic environments, thus, resort to music to create their own ethnic and cultur al identities. Family: Peers versus parents Social recognition in peer groups is an interesting concern during youth (Von Feilitzen and Roe 227). Social organizations including school and family put much emphasis on the importance of being successful. In such institutions, welcomed group participation, acceptance or membership might refer to school groups, peers, family, ethnic subcultures or to the wider social class world. Achievement might also take place within one of such social grounds. Unfortunately, most of the visible forms of validating social achievements including success at schools, perhaps, have petite potential to generate the peers’ popularity as compared to music. In fact, the impact of music on peer group relationships significantly affects various aspects of youthful life. Imitation of speech, consumption tastes, leisure forms and dressing codes of the music idols by the youth has generated peer influence and resulted in frictions with parents. Furthermore, as peer orientation, school failures and poor familial adjustment increase, peer group attachments increases. Early and considerable movements away from parental orientations towards peer group orientations seem to have a strong connection with musical preferences, interests and identification with particular music centered subgroups.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Music and the Construction of Personal/Social Identities specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Youths who are parent oriented are less likely to develop musical interests and might less often listen to it. However, peer oriented youths tend to display greater musical interests and would extensively listen to it. This kind of music listened by these groups differ significantly (Eyerman and Jamison 459). Peer oriented youths prefer listening to more socially disvalued and hard rock music whereas parent oriented youths give much preference to classical, jazz an d blues. Finally, research evidence clearly indicates that family problems might provoke youths to make even greater music and peer-group investments than normal at this particular life-stage. This could make youths get indulged into music movements founded by youth cultures that are blatantly anti-adults. As regard to this, it is apparent that the chosen youth subcultures and their preferred music offer marginalized identity sources to those tendered by home contexts. School and status Von Feilitzen and Roe claim that youths sharing same statuses and education level have their own musical subcultures and cultural orientation developments (p. 227). Youth cultures that identify themselves and are strongly attached to certain types of music including heavy metal rock tend to negatively perform in school. Such youths are low achievers and are very discontented male youth who come from low working class and powerless families. However, certain musical preferences including blues, jazz a nd classical music are linked to higher academic success. In contrast to them, rock music is essential to youths who have rejected their class background cultures as it provides them with social markers which differentiate from their parental expectations and culture. This is because the intergenerational power and mobility status which occur within the larger inequality status context are normally upheld with distinctive shifts in individuals’ lifestyles, self-esteem and identity.Advertising Looking for essay on social sciences? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More To youths, music also defines various types of social mobility including education, occupation, downwards and upward status mobility. The class mobility is linked with some kinds of musical preferences which differ with respect to cultural legitimacy. The music audience divisions result from individual and group trajectories within various social status hierarchical dimensions. For example, strong inclination to disco music is linked to upward professional mobility; strong classical music liking is associated with higher education and upward mobility, but those who give much preference to heavy metals are identified by downward educational mobility (Eyerman and Jamison 461). Therefore, youths identifying themselves with heavy metal music are perceived to be dynamic sensational seekers expressing their schooling displeasures since they find the regulation and structure of such institutions very hard to take. Gender and sexuality Youthful males are greatly preoccupied with musical pre ferences and tastes as compared to females. Often, youths in puberty are more anxious about the popular music that crops up during this period (Danesi 98) and would always wish to take an equal amount of time to listen to the preferred music. However, since females mature two years faster than males, they usually start listening to music at around nine and ten years while males identify and begin giving preference to music at twelve and thirteen years. Both sexes always listen to popular music having their central themes focused on dating and love. The youthful girls, nonetheless, have special strings attached to pop music whereas youthful males are exclusively linked to assertive masculinity and rock music (Danesi 98). The relationship amid sexuality and music has been significant. Male youths have been identified with dominant musical subcultures and more visible social mechanisms than females who majorly focus on less visible social mechanisms and less dominant musical subculture s. It is true that with respect to music and identity, both sexes are more inclined to romantic and sexually expressive music. Conclusion Music has played an important role in the construction of youths’ identities. Youth gender schemas including their self-definitions as either feminine or masculine emerge from the core musical constructs they draw on when defining themselves. Moreover, countless new musical information being received by the youths concerning individuals and their behaviors are primarily coded and thereafter inferred to with respect to gender norms and class. This makes youths identify themselves with certain musical subcultures. Besides, youths usually utilize music as a technique to develop and negotiate their interpersonal relations as depicted in the class and status dimensions. An individual’s musical preference clearly defines the social group a person belongs to or is not willing to be associated with. Thus, when youths develop specific musical preferences and taste patterns, it must be clear that the patterns are linked to a particular social circumstance or subcultural identification. Danesi, Marcel. Geeks, Goths and Gangstas: Youth Culture and the Evolution of Modern Society, Toronto: Canadian Scholars Press Inc., 2010. Print. Eyerman, Ron and Jamison Andrew. â€Å"Social Movements and Cultural Transformation: Popular Music in the 1960a†. Media, Culture and Society 17.3(1995): 449-468. Print. Von Feilitzen, Cecilia and Roe Keith. Eavesdropping on Adolescence: An Exploratory Study of Music Listening Among Children†. The European Journal of Communication 17.2 (1992): 225-244. Print.

Precedent vs. Precedence

Precedent vs. Precedence Precedent vs. Precedence Precedent vs. Precedence By Maeve Maddox A passage in a newspaper article prompted this email from a reader: Im grimacing at a Virginia newspaper passage:the first paid event held at the commons area, which might set precedence for future events I assume the author is not saying that this might make the future events come first. Please discuss the difference between precedents and precedence. The similarity of pronunciation is perhaps one cause of confusion between precedents [PRES-ih-dents] and precedence [PRES-ih-dence], but the error also occurs with precedence and singular precedent. The words are closely related in origin and meaning. Among the meanings of Latin praecÄ“dÄ“ns are â€Å"a person who goes in front,† â€Å"a person who ranks above,† and â€Å"a prior event.† The noun precedence may have originated as an erroneous spelling of the plural of precedent, but it has acquired a distinct meaning of its own. Precedence means, â€Å"the fact of being above or ahead of another or others in order, rank, or importance.† A common idiom is â€Å"to take precedence,† meaning â€Å"to enjoy the right of preceding others in ceremonies and social formalities.† A site on diplomatic protocol for the country of Saint Lucia provides an example of this usage: The Prime Minister, like the Governor-General, as the Head of Government, is entitled to certain privileges and courtesies.   He/she has the right of precedence in all circumstances, except when the Governor-General is in attendance. Things as well as people may â€Å"take precedence† in the sense of being esteemed above something else. An example of this use occurs in a speech by a prime minister of Singapore: For a religious person, conscience and religious conviction take precedence over the laws of the state, but in a multi-religious society like ours, it becomes crucial to keep religion strictly separate from politics. A precedent is â€Å"a previous instance taken as an example or rule by which to be guided in similar cases or circumstances.† A common idiom is â€Å"to set a precedent.† In a legal context, a precedent is a judicial decision that constitutes an authoritative example for subsequent similar cases. For example: â€Å"Griswold v. Connecticut  served as an important precedent in the Roe v. Wade  decision.† Here, with corrections, are some typical errors in the use of precedence for precedent: INCORRECT: A court ruling expected soon- stemming from public access to pretrial information in the William Cruse murder case- may set a precedence in what can be reported in criminal cases before trials. CORRECT : A court ruling expected soon- stemming from public access to pretrial information in the William Cruse murder case- may set a precedent in what can be reported in criminal cases before trials. INCORRECT: If the studio achieves anywhere near the same amount of success theyve seen with Cinderella, which has grossed nearly $160 million since its  March 13 release, it may set a precedence for more live-action flicks to come. CORRECT : If the studio achieves anywhere near the same amount of success theyve seen with Cinderella, which has grossed nearly $160 million since its  March 13 release, it may set a precedent for more live-action flicks to come. INCORRECT: The Kyoto Protocol has set  a significant precedence  for climate target negotiations in the future, and particularly with respect to differentiation of targets between  countries. CORRECT : The Kyoto Protocol has set  a significant precedent for climate target negotiations in the future, and particularly with respect to differentiation of targets between  countries. Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Misused Words category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:Comparative Forms of Adjectives5 Brainstorming Strategies for WritersBail Out vs. Bale Out

Kosovo is Albania Thesis Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Kosovo is Albania - Thesis Example Kosovo was the core of Yugoslavia and southern region of Serbia. It is true that being an independent country, people of different ethnic groups used to live in Kosovo. According to several criticisms of the historians, it can be stated that the largest ethnic group in Kosovo that are generally identified are the Albanians. There is huge controversy among the historians regarding the ethnic identity of Kosovo. This particular essay will discuss in favor of following thesis statement. Before going into the controversial debate, it is highly important for the readers to determine and understand the history. â€Å"Albanians can be considered as the largest ethnic group in Kosovo†. This particular community can be called as Kosovan or Kosovo Albanians or Kosovar. According to the Yugoslav census in the 1991, there were more than 80 percent Albanians used to live in Kosovo. However, this particular census had been boycotted by the Albanians due to several reasons. â€Å"It has been mentioned earlier that Kosovo got independence in the year 2008†. Since medieval period several Albanians used to live in Kosovo. It is true that, slowly and gradually several Albanians started to shift in Kosovo way before First World War. â€Å"In addition to this, when the Serbs used to expel major number of Albanians, then these Albanians started to settle in Kosovo during the year 1878† (Vickers, 2001). Moreover, these Albanians were recognized as the muhaxher. In addition to this, in the year 1912 during the war of Balkans in this First World War era, maximum of the Eastern Kosovo part was captured by the strong Kingdom of Serbia. â€Å"On the other hand, western part of the Kosovo was captured by the strong Kingdom of Montenegro† (Clark, 2000). However, as a result the Colonist Serb families started to move into Kosovo. Therefore, the percentage of Albanian population used to decrease significantly in Kosovo. â€Å"More than 10 percent

Educational attainment Article Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Educational attainment - Article Example Current paper focuses on the effects of identity - as related with race, gender and social class - on the educational attainment; there is limitation in terms of geographic region or age of people involved - learners of all ages can suffer discrimination because of their race, gender and social class; this discrimination can affect their attainment in school or other educational institute; the specific problem can occur in both the developing and the developed countries as the findings of the studies developed below prove. Identity can refer not only to the personal data, i.e. name and address; it is more related with the person's social and educational background. It can also refer to other issues, like gender, race and financial status. In education, specific parts of identity, especially social class, race and gender are likely to influence educational attainment under the terms explained below. Theorists and researchers around the world have tried to identify the potential effects of social class, gender and race on educational attainment. In accordance with a research made across England it was proved that 'inequality was the highest where the proportions attaining a particular threshold were the highest-upper secondary school or higher in Scotland; country differences in educational policy have not yielded different changes over time in the association between origin and educational attainment' (Paterson et al., 2007, 330). In accordance with the above study, inequalities in education have to be expected - they are unavoidable; however, the standards/ patterns set within a specific educational environment are likely to influence the behaviour of learners towards their classmates. In other words, the issue of inequality appears in environments where the necessary requirements for such phenomena exist. The specific conditions are normally expected to affect the performance of learners that suffer the discriminative behaviour of their classmates because of their racial or social background or their gender. The specific issue is highlighted in other studies that have been developed on the particular problem. The effects of education on the life of individuals can be critical. In accordance with Huurre et al. (2006, 41) 'background Education fundamentally shapes an individual's life chances and social status; duration and level of education are associated with people's incomes, socio-economic status, living standard, lifestyle and the respect and esteem they enjoy'. Through the examination of the practical implications of the above assumption, it was revealed that 'low school achievement and manual class of origin were the strongest predictors of low educational level in adulthood' (Huurre et al., 2006, 41). In other words, low performance in school/ university can adversely affect an individual's l