Wednesday, July 31, 2019

Oh captain my captain Essay

â€Å"O Captain! My Captain!† is a poem written by Walt Whitman in 1865. The poem is classified as an elegy because it is a mourning poem that was written in the memory of someone. The poem was written to honor Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States. Walt Whitman was born in 1819 and died in 1892, so he lived through the American Civil War. Being born close to the founding of the country, he knew people that were a part of the American Revolution. Through this he experienced the unification and division of the United States. Walt Whitman was extremely patriotic and wrote many poems about the prominence of America. He also wrote poems about urging people to fight for what is right. The poem was known as one of the greatest poems written at the time of the Civil War. The main political and social issue during Whitman’s time was slavery and the rights of African Americans. Whitman was self-described as the poet of America and, during the Civil War, the Un ion. Whitman wanted to see the end of slavery; this was his hope for America. However, it broke his heart to see the nation fighting. He admired Abraham Lincoln immensely because of his political standpoint of universal equality as stated in the constitution. The captain in the poem refers to Abraham Lincoln who is the captain of the ship; this represents the United States of America. The first line establishes a happy mood as it addresses the captain. The phrase â€Å"our fearful trip is done† is talking about the end of the Civil War. The next line references the ship, America, and how it has â€Å"weathered every rack†, meaning America has braved the tough storm of the Civil War, and â€Å"the prize we sought†, the end of slavery, â€Å"is won†. The following line expresses a mood of jubilation of the Union winning the war as it says â€Å"the people all exulting†; however, the next line swiftly shifts the mood when it talks of the grimness of the ship, and the darker side of the war. Many lost their lives in the American Civil War, and although the prize that was sought was won, the hearts still ache amidst the exultation of the people. The repetition of heart in line five calls attention to the poet’s vast grief and heartache because the Captain has bled and lies still, cold, and dead (lines six through eight). This is no doubt referencing the assassination of Abraham Lincoln and Whitman’s sorrow for the death of his idol. In the second stanza the speaker again calls out to the Captain in a light-hearted manner and dictates to â€Å"rise up and hear the bells†, to join in on the celebration of the end of the war. The next three lines tell the  captain to â€Å"rise up† and join in on the revelries because it is for him. He is the reason for their merriment: â€Å"for you the flag is flung—for you the bugle trills; for you bouquets and ribbon’d wreaths—for you the shores a-crowding; for you they call, the swaying mass, their eager faces turning†. Everyone is celebrating what Lincoln accomplished; this is not only the abolishment of slavery but also the format ion of the Union and the coming together of people. Again the poet calls to the Captain as if he had never fallen. The poet does not wish to acknowledge the death of his beloved Captain, and he even asks if it is some dream (line 15) that the Captain has fallen â€Å"cold and dead†. The third stanza begins in a somber mood as the poet has finally accepted that the Captain is dead and gone. Here there is vivid and darker imagery such as â€Å"his lips are pale and still† and the reader can picture the dead Captain lying there still and motionless with â€Å"no pulse nor will†. In line 17, the poet calls out â€Å"My Captain,† and in line 18, the poet refers to the Captain as â€Å"My father†. This is referring to Lincoln as the father of the United States. Lines 19 and 20 are concluding statements that summarize the entire poem. The United States is â€Å"anchor’d safe and sound†. It is safe now from war with â€Å"its voyage closed and done, from fearful trip, the victor ship, comes in with object won†. The country has accomplished its goal of the abolishment of slavery and the unification of people after a fearful war. In line 21, the examples of apostrophe, ordering â€Å"shores to exult,† and â€Å"bells to ring† are again referring to how the nation is celebrating while â€Å"I with mournful tread, Walk the deck my Captain lies, Fallen cold and dead†. Throughout the paper there is a distinct rhyme scheme, which is unusual for Whitman. The rhyme scheme in â€Å"O Captain! My Captain!† is AABCDEFE, GGHIJEKE, and LLMNOEPE for each stanza respectively. Two examples of alliteration are in line 10 â€Å"flag is flung†, as well as in line 19 â€Å"safe and sound†. Repetition occurs many times in this poem, for example â€Å"O Captain! My Captain†, and â€Å"fallen cold and dead†.

Tuesday, July 30, 2019

Homework for professional programmer Essay

Short Answer 1. What does a professional programmer usually do first to gain an understanding of a problem? (The wording of this question has me a little stumped so I’ll give you all the answers that are running through my head and see if that is what you are looking for here) a. Should â€Å"problem† = program assignment of some sort, than the first step would be to design the basis of the program in pseudocode to gain a clear picture of what kind of commands will work where, then move into flowcharting to start putting together the logic. b. Should â€Å"problem† = an issue in the code that is preventing it from executing, than the first thing I would imagine being done is to look over the program for syntax errors and logic errors. (While I know that syntax is usually the culprit for error, I may as well look for the both of them if I’m going to be going over code line by line.) 2. What is pseudocode? Pseudocode is â€Å"fake† code (as per the pseudo meaning fake and code meaning code). This is where a programmer writes out the code without worry of syntax or logic errors to get a visual feel of how the program should unfold. 3. Computer programs typically perform what three steps? The three steps that computer programs typically perform are: a. Input- where the program collects data from a source b. Process- Where the input data is used for an out come c. Output- where the processed data is presented 4. What does the term â€Å"user-friendly† mean? User-friendly is a term used in the software development to describe programs that are easy to use. Algorithm Workbench Review 1. Design an algorithm that prompts the user to enter his or her height and stores the user’s input in a variable named height. 1 Display â€Å"You have found the I’m Going to Turn Your Height into Information I Can Use program (feel free to clap and cheer!)† 2 Display â€Å"Enter your height, please† 3 Input yourHeight 4 Display â€Å"Thank you! (Now please move along, I have more people to collect  data from.)† 2. Design an algorithm that prompts the user to enter his or her favorite color and stores the user’s input in a variable named color. 1 Display â€Å"Wow! You found my super-secret hiding place†¦ While you’re here, can I ask you what your favorite color is?† 2 Input favColor 3 Display â€Å"You are getting sleepy†¦ soooooo very sleepy†¦ when you wake up, you will never remember being here†¦ â€Å" Programming Exercise Questions 1. Personal Information Design a Program that displays the following information: * Your name * Your address, with the city, state, and ZIP * Your telephone number * Your college major Display â€Å"Welcome to your personal information data collection program. It would be my honor to collect your personal data and use it at my discretion. Now, if you don’t mind, I would love for you to simply enter your data when prompted. Thank you so much.† Display â€Å"What might your name be?† Input sucker Name Display â€Å"What a nice name you have, â€Å", suckerName, â€Å" now where might your address be?† Display â€Å"Street: (ex: 12345 What St.)† Input suckerStreet Display â€Å"Now the city: (ex: Who’sville) Input suckerCity Display â€Å"Now how about your state? (ex: IN) Input suckerState Display â€Å"Now I’d like your zip-code please.(ex: 54321)† Input suckerZip Display â€Å"Just for fun, how about you give me your phone number too. Area code first, please. I’d like this to be accurate when I spread your information to all of those annoying telemarketers out there. (ex:(123)456-7890) Input sucker Phone Display â€Å"Alright, last bit of info. I just need your college major and you are free to go.† Input sucker Major Display â€Å"Thank you for all of your time. I hope to have you talking to a million people you don’t want to answer the phone for soon. Have a pleasant day.† From the Programmer, I understand that I would need to take this type of program much more seriously if I were to be putting together something for a client. I have had a good run of the college recruiter phone calls lately stemmed from the misfortune of trying to look for scholarships. Unfortunately I decided to take it out on this program assignment. My hope is that you will have just as much of a laugh over it as I have and that you find it to fulfill the requirements of the assignment. 4. Total Purchase A customer in a store is purchasing five items. Design a program that asks for the price of each item, and then displays the subtotal of the sale, the amount of sales tax, and the total. Assume the sales tax is 6 percent. Display â€Å"StuffMart Cart† Set stuffTax = 0.06 Display â€Å"Please enter each item separately† Display â€Å"Item 1† Input stuffOne Display â€Å"item 2† Input stuffTwo Display â€Å"Item 3† Input stuffThree Display â€Å"Item 4† Input stuffFour Display â€Å"Item 5† Input stuffFive Set stuffSub =stuffOne + stuffTwo + stuffThree + stuffFour + stuffFive Display â€Å"Here is your subtotal: $†, stuffSub Set stuffTotal =stuffSub * stuffTax Display â€Å"Here is your total due: $†, stuffTotal Display â€Å"Thank you for shopping at StuffMart†

Monday, July 29, 2019

Tanglewood Stores - Measurement and Validation Essay

Tanglewood Stores - Measurement and Validation - Essay Example The  table gives a clear analysis of various variables. It shows an estimate of the correlation between some of the common predictors like education, managerial interviews, job experience and the measures /variables of performance, citizenship, absence along with other correlations between the proposed predictors like biodata, applicant exams, extraversion, consciousness and retail knowledge. Content validity of the methods of selection is one of the key questions that have to be addressed.There are quite a number of scales that Tanglewood proposed which perfectly match the content that they are intended to measure.And they also correspond properly with the specific work of store associates.  First, we have the retail market knowledge exam which comprises of questions that pertain to the industry and the uniqueness of Tanglewood in the industry. This is properly done and very relevant in the sense that it is related to the basic knowledge of some of the vital marketing principles.Marshfield applicant exam which aims at helping individuals to get some problem-solving abilities, accuracy and fluency in numerical concepts.The personality exam is aimed at identifying the various personality types of those intending to work with Tanglewood.This is necessary for it assists the management to understand the kind of employees to put in various departments. If Tanglewood is interested in getting some of the best people to work for them, there a quite a number of things that they must do. They should focus more on aspects like education of the individual, his or her competencies, the experience he or she has in that particular are to avoid hiring people who lack the know-how and ensure that they give them more training pertaining the kind of duties that the organisation offers. For instance, those in the human resource have to be assisted on how to hire the best people for particular jobs within the stores. The above names predictors are some of the best because they will  ensure that the organisation has people who are competent and know what they are required of by their employers.  

Sunday, July 28, 2019

Organizational behaviour Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Organizational behaviour - Essay Example Company Profile 2ergo Group PLC is a proficient player in the mobile trade and marketing and is based in Salford Quays in England. Its areas of specialisation include, provision of software solutions, mobile entertainment, mobile website, mobile news. Their services are utilised in smart phone and mobile phone marketing, smart phone applications, mobile ticketing and coupons and secure payment solutions. It merges its inventive mobile technology together with its prowess in professional services to guide other smaller companies to improve and implement their mobile strategy. Companies that rely on their professional advice include Fox Sports, Aviva, Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Fidelity and Procter and Gamble (2ergo Group PLC). They consult on how to enhance their customer relationships, boost their sales, cut down on costs and end to end mobile solutions. The company headquarters are in the UK and it has been on the forefront in facilitating innovative mobile business strate gies across regions and different sectors. The company has spread its wings in Australia, Latin America, North America and India. Additionally, it is listed in the London Stock Exchange. The company has enjoyed a rise in revenue over time owing to quality customer service, diversity in its goods and services, customer loyalty and sound business policies. Through partnering with like-minded players they have cut down on costs, opened new branches and increase in sales and revenues. Its performance has been recognised in the global scene through receipt of various awards including the Salford Business Award Deloitte Technology Fast 50 Winner Mobile Star Awards – Winner, Mobile Advertising and Marketing Awards (MAMA), MMA 2009 Global Awards – Finalist and The Revolution Awards (2ergo Group PLC). This goes ahead to prove that the company’s organisational behaviour is impressive and can be adopted by other companies to improve their performance. Coping with Technolog ical Changes and Innovation The mobile market has evolved rapidly in the recent past calling for far-reaching changes in the operations of the company (2ergo Group PLC). The company has made changes to keep up with the global standards in technology. The Group has focuses mainly on technological advancements by investing a substantial amount of resources towards the course strengthening their capabilities to offer unmatched customer service. The company has received several awards owing to their innovativeness and technological advancements. The company has devised the following ways to cope with technological changes and innovation. These include: 1) Partnerships The company has formed partnerships with leading companies in different fields so as to diversify their products and services and boost their sales. It has partnered with several global companies including NCR, Procter & Gamble and 3M (2ergo Group PLC). This association has attracted more partners including two top restaur ants in the US and Australia boosting their revenue and their customer base. This has led to the creation of the PizzaExpress app which has led transformation of online retail payment which received massive response from their customers. In conclusion, partnerships have

Saturday, July 27, 2019

Theoretical Analysis - The 21st Centy Organization Assignment

Theoretical Analysis - The 21st Centy Organization - Assignment Example The three articles: Why Few Organizations Adopt Systems Thinking by Ackoff; How to be a truly global company by Prahalad and Bhattacharya; and Putting Organizational Complexity in Its Place by Birkinshaw and Heywood, are highly relevant as they provide a huge insight into the factors that are having an impact on organizations in the 21st century. Three reading that are interesting Ackoff (2005) in his article is distinct in its philosophy that system thinking is vital ingredient of organizational success or its failure when it is not part of organizational strategy. According to him, there is a distinct lack of dynamic decision making that takes into account the changing environment and organizational management’s willingness to learn from its failure or wrong decisions. These are important factors because organizational culture does not allow failures thereby not only restricting creativity within organization but also failing to take risk that could provide the organizations with competitive advantage. It is important that one takes the risks and commits mistakes and learns from it. System thinking broadly encourages responsible decision-making and allows its workforce to err in order to make a successful decision next time. In the contemporary environment of competitive business, new challenges need to be faced with equanimity and as new opportunities of growth. Prahalad and Bhattacharya (2011) have given important clues to become a global company with success. They emphasize that organizational restructuring greatly helps to inculcate trust in the stakeholders across the globe. Meeting local demands through customization of products and using local resources is very important for business to gain the trust of the local people where they are doing business. McDonalds’ has customized its products to suit local requirement across its global outlets. Exploiting local talents and cultural competencies become the highlight of truly global companies which thrive on global competitive businesses. Globalization has given a big thrust to industrialization and development through expansion of business across geographical boundaries. In globalization, inter-dependency of resources has become a reality. Thus, flexible approach and acting local with global vision provides the individuals and organizations with greater leverage to compete and gain leverage. Birkinshaw and Heywood (2010) have raised very pertinent issues of organizational complexities within and outside its offices across different geographical areas which emerge due to changing dynamics of business environment in the 21st century. The outdated business processes, ambiguity in roles, conflicting ideologies of pluralistic workforce etc. are vital obstacles that hinder growth. The institutional complexities and individual complexities need to be addressed and managed effectively for higher productive outcome. Institutional complexities are major issues which considerably impact employees’ performance. The complexities like role ambiguity, identifying obstacles like poor processes, product alignment with current demand etc. must be addressed and redefined to accommodate changing preferences of the

Friday, July 26, 2019

Usage of Drugs at Music Festivals Research Paper

Usage of Drugs at Music Festivals - Research Paper Example Most of the people on the occasion take drugs just in the name of having fun while others have just the curiosity of knowing how it feels taking the drug. Not being considerate of the adverse effects of the drugs, some people consume alcohol among other drugs abused, in the name of getting high. They believe that they need to be off their chops to enjoy the loud music and lights. Beginners suffer more compared to frequent users of the drug (Platt 1).  In some occasions, the carries away some individuals, who becomes hyped and pushes limits too far by doing things that they would not do in ordinary situations. At such point, they take drugs and do crazy stuff that they come to regret afterward when nursing their hangovers. Some go back to their homes injured only to realize when sober. Games such as â€Å"truth or dare† and â€Å"dirty deeds† played by youths during the event also contribute significantly in such occasions. Sometimes they dared one to drink or take a d rug that they do not know. They do so in the name of the game. Drinking competitions also leave others taking too much of alcohol, chewing blackout among other adverse effects (Lim et al. 440). One of the most commonly abused drugs during Electron Music Festival in the US is Molly, the recent name for ecstasy. They take the drug for the stimulation by light, sound, and touch sensation. To them, it gives a good feeling. They forget its side effects, which include paranoia, depression, nausea, and dehydration. Adversity of the effects of the drug occurs with an increase in temperature. Taking the drug in this condition increases the effects of hyperthermia. In some cases, it causes death from dehydration or heart failure (Hesse and Tutenges 88).

SWOT Analsis Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

SWOT Analsis - Assignment Example Second reason is the promotion the company has in football clubs which is my favorite game and lastly is the attracting advertising criteria for the different brand it manufactures on television. The company uses large volumes investment styles in the market to cope up with the giant competitors. Its objectives are subjected towards growth, value, and quality index-oriented brand approaches. Despite the company facing the macroeconomics competition challenges it is able to attractively invest and market its brand globally. The X&Y company objectives and strategy are based on long-term capital growth and best quality of non-alcoholic brand known as teens. (Allen, 2009). The strength of this company is openly found on aspects such as; the employees are able to enjoy the services provided by the company as well as the allowances. This hence has great significant on efficient output and the quality of the brand. Employees benefit from the job security thus easing supervision and management control. The product of X&Y Company is loaded with romanticizing image which is attractive to many people. It is probably enjoyed in the world with an average of 500 million people per day. On global scales, the company is able to market its brand in large volumes and therefore making cash inflows in its equity. The consumer purchasing power is increasing by 5% worldly though faced with giant competitors like coco cola. Market trend information is another aspect. The company has developed a quality information online desk to enhance financial information sharing and market forces effects. X&Y Company is a debt-free, with ample liquidity. The cash and supported portfolio investment holdings amounting nearly $ 5.8 billion by year 2014. Although it suffers heavy outflows in advertising and promotion, it remains strong on earnings and revenue results. The company is characterized to the increased profitability to its branches in various countries and

Thursday, July 25, 2019

Benetton Speech or Presentation Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Benetton - Speech or Presentation Example For example that of children working in developing nations at a construction location. The young people constitute a large part of Benetton’s group of customers. As the company foresees, young people have a major amount of income that they are ready to spend on its products. Thus, they have been termed as the generation â€Å"X.† (Rectanus, 2002). The generation is made up of persons between the ages of 16 and 27 (Rectanus, 2002). The reason being they are more connected with the media, which Benetton uses to sell its products. They also have the sense aspect of style that comes with most of its products. This generation also makes up the youth, ages 10 to 24. It is worthy to note that the youth make up 29 % and 19 % of the population in developing and developed countries respectively (Mueller, 2011). Hence, majority of its youth customers are in the middle social class in developed and developing nations. The amount of income that is generated from the youth is considerable bearing in mind the youth in the world are said to have the ability to spend US $100 billion. Thus its sales amount to more than $2 billion from the youth (Information Resources Management Association, 1994). In order to get to maximally market its products to the youth, it has to ensure its technological features are strong as the youth are becoming more and more reliant on technology. Hence, it has to be a step ahead technologically. Benetton utilises computer facilities of high technology to design and cut the attire it produces. The machines it uses are connected to the micro-computers that use the CAD-CAM software. The company has what is normally termed as the Benetton system. The system ensures that there is an intricate network in place for quick product delivery to shops around the globe. The system made up of the information systems and the company is run as whole from the company; hence, the company is known as

Wednesday, July 24, 2019

English Film and Literature Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

English Film and Literature Analysis - Essay Example Heroes too have been of varied kinds in the world of American art, ranging from the frontier hero of the Westerns to the hero of the Everyman variety. These two movies look at two such characters and the heroes have elements of different such types. The importance of the genre of the works and the time periods in which they are set shall also be a part of the discussion in this paper. The paper shall argue that these works have influenced the manner in which the American hero has been envisaged over the years and conceived of in other works of art. The character of Hawkeye is one who is able to maneuver through several situations that the settlers have to face. In a period that was marked by a great amount of political turbulence, he is able to navigate himself and others into situations of safety. He is able to also further the agenda of the side that he is on. One needs to remember that this was an era when America was still open to nations of the world and people like Hawkeye were necessary in order to consolidate the power that America had over the world. Such a hero is commonplace in American movies and books. In many movies of the Western genre, one finds that the hero moves to a place which is populated by a large number of Indians. The narratives of such westerns are almost always based on the extension of the American frontiers. Such an extension would then place the character in the mold of a hero as the character would be seen to be performing a service to his community and to the larger community of America. This is seen to also be a patriotic move. Apart from this, it also furthers the idea of the masculine hero who is able to subdue the forces that create problems in the lives of his community. The fact that such heroes are more often than not, men, goes a long way to prove this point. Even in the recently released movie Django Unchained, which seeks to reinvent the genre of the Western, the hero remained a man while the lead female character was a largely passive presence. The masculine hero is then seen as a symbol or crystallization of American manhood. One of the interesting features of the book is the fact that Hawkeye does not appear to be an intensely racist character. On one occasion, he actually says, There is reason in an Indian, though nature has made him with a red skin!’†¦. ‘I am no scholar, and I care not who knows it; but, judging from what I have seen, at deer chases and squirrel hunts, of the sparks below, I should think a rifle in the hands of their grandfathers was not so dangerous as a hickory bow and a good flint-head might be, if drawn with Indian judgment, and sent by an Indian eye. (Cooper 49) However, this sense of tolerance is often offset by the race pride and sense of superiority that he displays at various points in the novel. One such instance is given below. I am not a prejudiced man, nor one who vaunts himself on his natural privileges, though the worst enemy I have on earth, and he is an Iroquois, daren’t deny that I am genuine white. (Cooper 49) The hero of the Western too was in many cases white and held racist notions of white superiority. Such notions were then used in order to justify his actions that were meant for the progress of a society that was largely white. Many of these movies were also set in pre-Civil War scenes. The hero of Mr. Smith goes to Washington, on the other hand is a person who is closer to the model of Everyman. He is a part of the American

Tuesday, July 23, 2019

Franciscan Values in Cardinal Stritch University Essay

Franciscan Values in Cardinal Stritch University - Essay Example Therefore, the Cardinal Stritch University offers a course in Franciscan values that are intended to better human beliefs and actions in the best interest of mankind. The fundamental purpose of delivering this knowledge is to make people love and respect one another. People sharing similar values become affiliated to one another and become united. The multicultural faculty and learners expand the horizons of the university beyond limits. The university offers indiscriminate and unbiased teaching to people belonging to all classes. The values emphasize upon maintaining the environmental health and safety. The Franciscan values discourage violence by resolving interpersonal clashes. Through this course, Cardinal Stritch University becomes home to disabled and socially excluded people where they can acquire similar lifestyle as others. People from all ethnic backgrounds are able to benefit from the course. The university intends to develop increased communication links and hence better understanding between teachers and students. The course aims at addressing issues related to sustainable development and ensuring environmental health and safety by developing and implementing such programs. The course is also intended to play a big role in eliminating inter-racial conflicts and spread love, peace, and harmony between people belonging to different races and cultures. Critiques may argue that learning manners in such a formal programme as that offered by the Cardinal Stritch University is a waste of time and may question the justification of such courses. However, a deep analysis of the course suggests that it is a comprehensive course of Franciscan values and has the potential to bring positive results for the society. The course on Franciscan values offered by the Cardinal Stritch University provides a comprehensive understanding of these values.

Monday, July 22, 2019

Income and Disposable Income Essay Example for Free

Income and Disposable Income Essay Income will mean cash income before taxes, and will include government transfer payments such as unemployment insurance benefits, family allowance payments, pensions, welfare assistance, etc. Disposable income specifically focuses on the amount of income available for private consumption and spending. Disposable income takes into consideration the reality that take-home pay is heavily influenced by not only gross income, but also by factors such as government transfer levels, taxation levels, and inflation. Disposable Income is defined in two ways: * Income after federal and provincial income taxes * Income after taxes, employment insurance and Canada Pension Plan Discretionary Income is Disposable Income after deductions for basic necessities such as food, clothing, shelter, transportation, healthcare, personal care, etc. Life-Cycle State people change the goods and services they buy over their lifetimes. Buying is also shaped by the stage of the family life cycle-the stages through which families might pass as they mature over time. Marketers often define their target markets in terms of life-cycle stage and develop appropriate products and marketing plans. Described in the following graph, on average, real disposable income has grown at a very slow rate of 0.05% from 1980 to 1998. This varies from 0.32% for a family of 2 parents with children, 0.14% for economic families of 2 persons or more, 0.09% for elderly families to 0.31% for lone parent families. These figures have improved over the last 3 years. In 2000, real disposable income per capita grew 2.7%, its strongest growth rate in over a decade. The above chart shows the percentage change in inflation-adjusted incomes of families with children for the lowest 5th of families to those in the top 5th of family incomes from the late 1970s to 1997. It can be seen that for the lowest 5th of families real incomes fell 21% during past 2 decades, while incomes for the highest 5th increased 30%. Thats quite a swing. Further, the chart shows for the middle 5th of family incomes their current inflation-adjusted income is about 3% less than 2 decades ago. Thats pure and simple. No wonder family saving fell while household debt ratios soared. Look again at this chart. The top family earners increased income 30% above inflation in those 2 decades. But, if recognize that 30% real income growth over 2 decades is but 1.16% average per year compounded above inflation, its not that great, especially compared to all average family incomes increasing at an annual rate of 3-4% above inflation prior to 1970, most with one wage-earner per family. In other words, this chart suggested that the top family earners since the 1970s made out worse than did all average family incomes prior to 1970. Of course the poorest 5th saw their real family income drop 21% past 21 years or about 1.12% per year below inflation rates. This shows how dramatic long-term implications can be, just 2% per year separating top and lower earners and how much poorer is total family income performance now compared to before. The marketers can use these statistics to estimate the future trend of people buying behavior. In order to develop new technologies or sell strategies, these statistics would help marketer to decide what they have to change to gain more profits.

Sunday, July 21, 2019

Irans Economy: SWOT Analysis

Irans Economy: SWOT Analysis Strengths: Location between the Middle East and Central Asia, with access to the Persian Gulf and Caspian Sea Iran is the eighteenth largest country in the world The economy of Iran is the twenty-fifth largest in the world by GDP (nominal) and the eighteenth largest economy in the world by purchasing power parity (PPP) world’s second largest proven oil reserves, after Saudi Arabia, world’s second largest proven gas reserves after Russia It is OPECs (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries) 2nd largest oil exporter and is an energy superpower. Subsidy reform has cut domestic consumption of oil and gas and provides more for export Oil and gas aside, Iran is rich in other resources and has a strong agricultural sector Easy Access to markets of neighboring countries Iran has one of the highest urban growth rates in the world. From 1950 to 2002, the urban proportion of the population increased from 27% to 60% TSE (Tehran Stock Exchange) has been one of the worlds best performing stock exchanges in recent years. The Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Act (FIPPA) gives some protection to foreign investors and relatively good terms for the repatriation of profits Although stifled in the years since the revolution, Iranians are known for their entrepreneurial skills, which is potentially a strong pull for foreign investors. excellent reverse engineering capabilities and technical innovation A large army including elite units two thirds of Irans population under the age of 25 Young, motivated and active work force Iran is a diverse country, consisting of people of many religious and ethnic backgrounds Iran is home to one of the richest artistic traditions in world history and encompasses many disciplines, including architecture, painting, weaving, pottery, calligraphy, metalworking and stonemasonry. Existing historical tourist attractions for improving regional tourism The culture of Iran is a mix of ancient pre-Islamic culture and Islamic culture Weaknesses: One product economy (economic growth only rely on oil and gas industry) Little international or multinational involvement. International sanctions make investment and financing transactions difficult. International sanctions discourage foreign oil companies from bringing much needed technical knowledge and equipment to maintain oil output levels. International Sanctions are eating into Iran’s oil revenues, increasing the chances of severe social unrest. International sanctions in banking system, means that the sector is underdeveloped and under-competitive After a concerted effort to reduce public debt in recent years there are signs that it is once again rising Iran has only a few allies in the region Foreign firms are unable to own hydrocarbon resources in Iran Unfavorable contract structures limit profitability for foreign investors. Inability of controlling exchange rates Limited financial or operational freedom Lack of infrastructures in different economical parts The beginning of the countrys subsidy reform program has lowered its growth prospects and accelerated inflation. Progress on privatization front remains slow despite some recent encouraging signs Structures of state-run firms are inefficient, which slows down the production process. Strict government control is highly restrictive to innovation Lack of funds in commerce and agriculture section Lack of transportation vehicles traditional production methods due to lack of advanced technologies Bureaucracy constricts entirely state-run industries. Poor research facilities (despite ability to reverse-engineer). Decision making ultimately rests with the Supreme Leader Iran has one of the poorest human rights records in the region Opportunities: There is a possibility of regional dominance in the short term due to the country’s size and influence The gas sector is underdeveloped and there is considerable room to maximize this source of revenue. government subsidized foundations that dominate Iran’s non-oil economy Any normalization of relations between Iran on one hand and the USA and its allies on the other could provide the impetus for a huge reform of the banking sector. The government has granted a number of licenses to new private banks in recent years; these private banks are growing far faster than their state-owned counterparts. A growing population, combined with a shortage of housing, provides opportunities for investment in residential construction. Widespread deployment of enhanced oil recovery (EOR) techniques could significantly boost output. Considerable untapped gas export potential US setbacks in Iraq and Afghanistan have given Iran an opportunity to assert greater strategic influence in the region Iran still has option to resolve nuclear crisis diplomatically Iran retains support in the international community, notably from China and Russia, which both oppose sanctions. Opportunities for export if restrictions are lifted. A growing realization that international assistance may be required to develop industry could see further involvement in the future. Being neighbor with underdeveloped countries of Afghanistan and Pakistan Good climate for agriculture and providing the base for expanding of these products Having young, motivated and active workforce Having border markets provide basis for crossà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ border interactions Existing special economical region and providing the base for economic growth Having major productive benefits in mine and industry sections Having good universities and colleges to improve professional work force in the region Expanding native culture of region and country to other neighboring countries Threats: Lack of privatization will continue to stifle the industry. Concentration on high-profile programs will detract from more essential ground forces research. Ongoing tension over Iran’s nuclear program raises the prospect of further US and UN Security Council sanctions Ethnic tensions are on the rise High youth unemployment. A decline in world oil prices would have a considerable impact on the economy. There is a serious risk of capital flight due to fears of conflict or sanctions. UN and EU sanctions on Iran pose a significant threat to the participation of foreign firms in the oil and gas sector. Non-performing loan ratios are dangerously high; there are serious concerns over the solvency of state-owned banks over the long term. Government-mandated lending to poorer Iranians at low interest rates means that banks have limited control over their lending policies. UN, US and EU sanctions on Iran’s banking and energy sectors are making it difficult for foreign companies to undertake financial transactions with Iranian entities, and risky to invest in the hydrocarbons sector. The risk of internal political instability Long-term fall in domestic oil production Changes in OPEC/national energy policy Strong regional competition Political issues make procurement decisions extremely slow. Slow pace of development. Inefficient workforce acts as a further drain on resources Not having enough infrastructures for expanding different economical sections Safety threats and consequently less investing Religious and tribal networks Immigration of professional workforce Having unsuitable weather like 120 day sand storm Lack of advanced technologies

Macro and Micro Environment Analysis of McDonalds

Macro and Micro Environment Analysis of McDonalds 2. Literature Review This section provides a broad picture of the dissertation that includes setting up the arameters and limits to the field of inquiry going into the research. Its aim is to identify key ideas, marketing theories applicable and marketing case studies that impinge upon the area of this investigation. It makes an effective starting point leading into the introduction and the background of the dissertation. 2.1 Macro Environment Analysis of McDonalds The analysis is done using a top down approach where first the Macro Environment and then the Micro environment has been examined, in which McDonalds operates. 2.1.2 Internal Anlaysis Internal Analysis is done using Value Chain analysis. The term ‘value chain was used by Michael Porter (1985) in his book â€Å"competitive advantage; creating and sustaining superior performance†. Brown (1997),â€Å"described value chain as a tool to disaggregate a business in to strategically relevant activities†. In McDonalds case, the key value adding activities are inbound logistics, operation, outbound logistics, marketing sales and service. McDonalds logistics function is to buy food on behalf of its operator (franchisee) and arrange delivery in to their restaurants. McDonalds logistics includes; the procurement and shipment of raw materials in to suppliers, the procurement and shipment of finished goods between the suppliers and the distribution centres, together with the warehousing at each distribution centre, the ordering and the delivery to restaurants of all food, packaging and operating supplies. To improve its logistics operation, McDonalds combines a number of food-processing plants dedicated to its operation only. The establishment of â€Å"food towns† consisting of a distribution centre and a bakery, a meat plant, a sauce plant and a chicken plant, gives McDonalds competitive advantage. The supporting activities that can be identified are procurement, human resources development and technology. McDonalds uses electronic procurement system. It had set logistics trends for restaurants with its online ordering system. It was noted that more than 12% of McDonalds franchisees ordered food supplier electronically. Revamping its supply chain with software and technology made it easy to respond quickly and efficiently to customers needs. With the online ordering system, McDonalds had a return on investment of 23.2% in 2008. However, the human resource development at McDonalds is excellent. McDonalds uses a high-engagement approach to improving both their operations, leadership pipeline and employee satisfaction with their career growth. Every management staff at McDonalds receives training at one of the regional training centres and at the national centre, Hamburger University in East Finchley. Training all employees to work in one best way (quick-service culture) made McDo nalds to gain customers loyalty continuously leading to a competitive advantage. 2.1.3 External Anlaysis PEST analysis is applied for an in depth understanding of macro environment in fast food industry where McDonalds operated. Kotler (1998) claims that PEST analysis is a useful strategic tool for understanding market growth or decline, business position, potential and direction for operations. POLITICAL The operations of McDonalds are affected by the government policies on the regulations of fast food operation. Currently government are controlling the marketing of fast food restaurant because of health concern such as cardiovascular and cholesterol issue and obesity among the young and children in the country. Governments also control the license given for open the fast food restaurant and other business regulation need to follow such as for a franchise business. Good relationship with government in giving mutual benefits such as employment and tax is a must for the company to succeed in any foreign market. McDonalds should also protect its workers by ensuring all the hiring, compensation, training or repatriation is according to UK and European Labour Law and the Middle Eastern Labour Laws as stipulated. ECONOMICS As a business entity, McDonalds need to face a lot of economic variables outside its company or its macro environment. Dealing with international sourcing for its material McDonalds should be aware on the global supply and currencies exchange. Remember, McDonalds import most of its raw material such as beef and potatoes due to local market cannot supply in abundant to meet the demand of its product. Any upside of currencies especially dollar will be impacting its cost of purchase. Working on the local country, McDonalds must face government regulations on tax of profit where it gains from the operation and other tax such as entertainment and restaurant service tax. Each country may have different scale or types of tax available and McDonalds should follow the regulation if it wants to continue the operation. As a franchise, McDonalds should also pay certain percentage of the revenue to the parent company in United States. The economic condition and growth of the country also is an important indicator to the demand of products that McDonalds offered. As the food priced slightly above normal foods, not many people will have the income range to consume the products. Moreover if the economy is bad and income percapita is affected, the demand of McDonalds product will certainly going down. On the other hand the good economy also means disposable income is more and people can spend more on more expensive food at fast food restaurant. SOCIAL/CULTURAL The changing lifestyles of Malaysia due to development of Malaysian economy should be also taking into consideration. While more people are able financially to eat at more expensive outlet such as fast food restaurant, they have higher expectation. They want to have quality in services and more conveniences that can differentiate one restaurant from another. Young urban consumers want technology in their life and facilities such as credit card payment, wireless internet, cozy and relaxing ambient place, and other attraction for their hangout and eating. All these needs should also be taken into consideration. There is not much difference between cultural and the purchase of products in a single country but for different countries cultural sensitivity should be upheld. For example in India people (Hindu) do not take beef, Muslim countries do not take pork, German like beers, Finnish like fish type of food menu, Chinese like to associate food with something good (for ex ample prosperity), Asian like rice and Americans eat in big-sized menu. So far McDonalds has shown good efforts in localization of its menu to suit local taste but it should constantly survey and learn about local culture to better understand and design the best product for them. TECHNOLOGY For a fast food restaurant, technology does not give a very high impact on the company and it is not a significant macro environment variables. However McDonalds should be looking to competitors innovation and improve itself in term of integrating technology in managing its operation. For example in inventory system, supply chain management system to manage its supply, easy payment and ordering systems for its customers and wireless internet technology. Implementation of technology can make the management more effective and cost saving in the long term. This will also make customer happy if cost savings results in price reduction or promotional campaign discount which will benefits them from time to time. LEGAL As a certified fast food operator, there are many regulations and procedures that McDonalds should follow. For example is the Halal certification that becomes a concern to Muslim consumers. McDonalds should protect its integrity and consumer confidence by ensuring all materials and process are as claimed or must followed. Other legal requirement that the business owner should follow as stipulated in laws are such as operating hours, business registration, tax requirement, labor and employment laws and quality environment certification (such as ISO) in which the outlet has been certified. The legal requirement is important because the offenders will be fined or have their business prohibited from operating which can be disastrous. ENVIRONMENT As one of world largest consumer of beef, potatoes and chicken, McDonalds always had been critics for world environmentalist. This is because high consumption of beef causing the green house effect by methane gasses coming from the cows ranch. Large scale plantation has effect the environment and lost of green forest opening for plantation activities. Vegetarian environmentalist criticizes the fast-food giant for cruelty to animals and slaughtering. In Japan, once McDonalds want to introduce whale burger causing uproar because whales are endangered species. Before using paper packaging, once McDonalds also had been criticized for being insensitive to pollution because using polystyrene based packaging for its foods. Imagine millions of people purchase from fast food operator and how is the impact to world environment by throwing away those hard to recycle packaging. Our world is getting concern on environment issue and business operating here should not just care for prof it, but careful usage of world resources for sustainable development and care for environment safety and health for our future generation. Critics and concern from all public or activist should be review and support if necessary to ensure we play our social responsibility better. 2.2 Market Position McDonalds is operating in a very competitive market. In order to maintain on the top position of the competition, it is important to understand the companys industry environment to be prepared for actions. Porters 5 Forces is a useful model for analysing the industry environment, it identifies five competitive forces that shape every single industry and market. Supplier Power If suppliers have strong bargaining power, competitive pressure will be greater (Pearce and Robinson, 2004). McDonalds works in partnership with most of their suppliers to protect the quality of their foods and minimise the bargaining power of suppliers. Buyer Power Consumers buying power in the food market is high. With the continuously changes in tastes and the increased concern in healthy eating, companies in the food market has to make changes and improvements to satisfy its customers. Otherwise there is a high possibility in getting bad publicity and lost in profit. Threat of Substitute The threat of substitute is high in the fast food market due to the strong competition and the increasing amount of ready to eat foods. Customers have many choices other than McDonalds, and ready to eat meals are cheaper and convenient. Competition The competition in the fast food market is very high. McDonalds has to compete with strong competitors like Burger King, Pizza Hut, Wendy and KFC. Threat of Entry The threat of new entrant is low in the fast food industry because of the amount of competition with the big players in the market. New entrants will not likely to win due to lack ok economic of scale. The fast food industry is highly competitive. Taking one step further from the internal analysis, in this chapter, external analysis was done so as to determine where McDonalds I positioned in the market, given the intensive rivalry. PESTLE is used to gather data for completion of this analysis. From the data using PESTLE, swot analysis is done to determine how McDonalds strong market position as the largest foodservice and fast-food retailing chain in the world is bolstered by robust all-round growth witnessed by the company. By analyzing PEST and SWOT an understanding of overall of the companys power and how it can grow, is established. This was done keeping the focus on Western European Market and the Middle east. Hence the impact of European Regulations and turbulence caused by ter rorism and Iraq war is also taken as a significant point as part of analysis. Porters five forces model is used as the tool to analyse the market competition in the European and the middle east market. The existing rivalry in the industry is already strong although McDonalds is in a dominant market position. The above analysis helps to conclude MCDonalds competitive advantage and its uniqueness to gain broad target in the aforementioned markets. 2.3 : Marketing Strategy and Mix Every organisations need to identify their strategic aims to be able to have a direct focus of what and when to achieve it within a given time. This is usually based on the organisations limited resources and capabilities. As (Barney 1991), â€Å"stated an organisation could extend their limited resources and capabilities through organisational learning, sharing, generation of knowledge, redeployment of existing resources in an effective and efficient ways†. In this section, the strategic aim of McDonalds is discussed. This is used for evaluating the way it has implemented its objectives and the effectiveness of the global and local marketing strategies. This was important to fully understand its market and environment in order to evaluate its right marketing plans and the adopted strategies. After analysing the market and environment of McDonalds, this chapter focuses on the plans and strategies adopted by the company to overcome its weaknesses and avoid the threats. It uses various survey results to determine the effectiveness of its marketing mix. In the year 2003, when, McDonalds had been having problems on losing market share, reducing profit and bad publicity, the company started aligning their global system around a common mission with a common set of customer focused goal oriented actions. It was called â€Å"McDonalds Plan to Win† which was to put the companys concentration on the five drivers of exceptional customer experiences Product, People, Place, Promotion and Price. This plan was aimed to increase profits by improving its services to increase customers. These 5 variables are also known as the Retail Marketing Mix or the 5 Ps. They are the variables that marketing managers can control in order to best satisfy customers in the target market. This cha pter discusses and evaluates the way McDonalds has established its revitalisation plan in the European and the Middle East markets. While doing the research on the five Ps, McDonalds relationship marketing is also examined, that is viewed as an asset and the companys marketing goal is to attract, maintain, and enhance customer relationships. Then there is an argument on whether the combination of five Ps with the relationship marketing is enough to stay on the competition or is there any other areas to be focussed as well. In the aspect of marketing sales McDonalds adopted the concept of 7ps of marketing mix formulated by McCarthy (1975) and Gilligan Fifield (1996). These 7ps includes; product, place, price, promotion, people, process, physical. With these 7ps McDonalds was able to create a uniformity of items that taste the same in different countries. McDonalds realises that although there is cost savings in standardisation but success can be achieved by being able to adapt to a specific environment. It has a pricing strategy that enables it to cope with a particular market. In setting price, McDonalds looks at the elasticity of demand for its product in response to price. Considering the diverse range of culture, custom in different countries, McDonalds has localised its marketing communication strategy using different promotion and advertisement. For instance McDonalds uses the England footballer Alan Shearer as a logo to advertise its hamburgers in the UK and in France its uses Fabien Barthez, t he French international goalkeeper. Obviously, McDonalds uses a number of styles to attract customers. After analysing the market and environment of McDonalds, this chapter will be focusing on the plans and strategies adopted by the company to overcome its weaknesses and avoid the threats. In the past few years, McDonalds has been having problems on losing market share, reducing profit and bad publicity. In the year 2003, the company have aligned their global system around a common mission with a common set of customer focused goal oriented actions. It is called â€Å"McDonalds Plan to Win† which was to put the companys concentration on the five drivers of exceptional customer experiences Product, People, Place, Promotion and Price. This plan was aimed to increase profits by improving its services to increase customers. These 5 variables are also known as the Retail Marketing Mix or the 5 Ps. They are the variables that marketing managers can control in order to best satisfy customers in the target market. (Please refer to appendix 2 for further information on the 5 Ps) Product The following are the strategies applied by McDonalds on their Products: To satisfy customers desire for premium products at affordable prices. More choices on the Happy Meal such as fruit options and milk for the kids. To address the desire for foods that fit into todays lifestyle. McDonalds has added new choices like meal-size salads, fruit options and sandwiches in order to fit the increased concern on health eating. McDonalds is controlling the quality of the foods by working in partnership with its suppliers and to work closely with food experts to ensure the quality is in the highest standard. People The following are the marketing strategies adopted by McDonalds on its People: Speeding up service by simplifying the restaurant environment for their staff and customers. Ensuring the restaurant staffs are focused on being friendly, as well as fast with hospitality training. Providing cost-efficient, relevant training for their world-wide workforce. There are more than 1.6 million people worldwide working for McDonalds. McDonalds has placed emphasis on the training and development of its employees, aiming to provide career opportunities for people to achieve their potential. McDonalds has five commitments to their employees, which are: Respect and Recognition Values and Leadership Behaviours Competitive Pay and Benefits Learning, Development and Personal Growth Resources to Get the Job Done Place McDonalds has over 30,000 restaurants in 119 countries. It opens in places where has high consumer flows such as high street, shopping malls, train station, airports, retail parks, gas stations, and even schools. Freestanding restaurants are positioned so that customers are never more than a few minutes away by foot in the city or by car. The following are McDonalds strategies on Place: To make the environment the gold standard for cleanliness. They have recalibrated their standards and are consistently enforcing them. McDonalds has added additional service to customers by providing Wi-Fi accessibility in some of the restaurants so customers can stay connected to the internet while enjoying their foods. Giving customers more reasons to visit McDonalds by adding more products offering such as coffee and to locate in the right place. Relocating, renovating and rebuilding some of the restaurants to give McDonalds a fresh edge. Promotion Every year McDonalds spent huge amount of money on promotion. The company has been trying to maximise the impact of the advertising spending and broaden their reach through public relations and by placing adverts in media well beyond the traditional prime-time network television format. The objective of spending so much money on promotion is to build brand loyalty and bonds of trust. The following are the strategies: The new creative brand direction â€Å"Im Lovin It!† is designed to connect with customers around the world, especially young adults, moms and kids. It has became McDonalds signature brand voice in 119 countries, generating awareness figures as high as 96% in some parts of the world. Appealing to young adults with relevant advertising. McDonalds is bringing top creative teams from around the world to gather ideas, study trends and find inspiration to create world-class advertising. Price McDonalds has a rigorous pricing process that is used to determine the price for that particular market in each country. The reason is to be able to offer affordable prices to customers and also to be profitable for the company. The following are the process which sets out the basic framework that allows the company to set localised pricing: Selecting the price objective Determining demand Estimating costs Analysing competitors costs, prices and offers Selecting a pricing method Selecting a final price (www.mcdonalds.com) 2.4 : Performance Measurement Quality is an important issue in services due to the features of inseparability, intangibility and perishability. That which can not be stored and is intangible cannot be checked for defects before ‘delivery to customers. In addition each individual involved in the exchange process brings with them varying levels of expectations and levels of satisfaction in addition to the unpredictable nature of human beings. It is this dominant role of human interaction in services that shape customers expectations and create difficulties in understanding and implementing quality initiatives (Behara Gundersen (2001)). Officially McDonalds names three elements in their strategy to be the worlds best quick service restaurant: People (being the best employer), Customers (providing them excellence) and System Growth (for owners/operators, suppliers and company). ‘McDonalds has always been a franchising Company and has relied on its franchisees to play a major role in its success. McDonalds remains committed to franchising as a predominant way of doing business. Approximately 70% of McDonalds worldwide restaurant businesses are owned and operated by independent businessmen and women, our franchisees. Usually, McDonalds offers franchises to poor performing restaurants in order to sustain profitability. Advertising is used to differentiate McDonalds products from competitors and as a means of branding: Advertising Spend in 2001 amounted to  £39m (KFC:  £14m, Burger King:  £8.6m, Pizza Hut:  £7.4m). Furthermore, McDonalds is involved in various high profile sponsorship schemes (e.g. major Sponsor of FIFA World Cup, ‘gold sponsor and official restaurant of the Olympic Games) that secures them favourable PR. Recently McDonalds acquired Boston Market Chicken restaurants, the Donatos pizza chain and Chipotle Mexican Grill. In the UK, it purchased the Aroma coffee chain and 33% of Pret A Manger. This demonstrates that McDonalds has diversified into other segments of the fast food/ convenience /take away market. McDonalds is the worlds largest food service organisation. It has the greatest market share of the breakfast, lunch and dinner market and holds 67% of the UK Burger Market. McDonalds golden arches are the worlds biggest brand with higher awareness than Coca-Cola. McDonalds is constantly introducing new products, usually for a limited period of time. This is because management recognise that consumers like variety as well as a continuation of good products such as Big Macs and Cheeseburgers. Also, they are well aware that if McDonalds has too many products running at the same time then the speed of customer service will deteriorate. However, McDonalds has not introduced healthier products in response to growing concerns about obesity. It is difficult to evaluate the extent to which McDonalds fulfils customers demands. In the 2001 consumer survey conducted by Sandelman Associates, McDonalds was ranked as last out of 60 chains for taste. Statistics that describe McDonalds cleanliness are not available and therefore the achievement of this objective is difficult to examine, but anecdotal evidence suggests that suitable policies are in place to meet that objective. Customer service quality is difficult to assess but it is renowned for being quick. 2.5 : Ethical Criticism Ethical behaviour has come up as one of the most important aspect of any organisation. By ‘Doing the right thing internally and externally, businesses created a good working atmosphere, while also benefiting society and the environment. However many ethical issues are subjective and based on ones values and beliefs. As a result, they are often difficult to enforce and easy to neglect. The result of this is that ‘when the costs are added up, the social balance sheet contains enormous debts to society (McEwan, 2001). This chapter discusses the ethical issues that McDonalds have been facing over a period of time and how effectively it addressing its corporate social responsibility. The 2008 corporate social responsibility report has been critically evaluated and based on that it is determined, whether much of its efforts are just descriptive or has been realistic. It uses various results from the data set based on the primary and secondary research to determine the effectives. It is the notion of an organizations ‘debts to society, which led to the branch of ethics known as ‘corporate social responsibility. This refers to ‘the economic, legal, ethical, and philanthropic expectations placed on organizations by society at a given point in time (Carroll and Buchholtz, 2000). This theory of responsibility to society is based around two headings, stated by Wells (1998). Social Responsibility deals with ‘the purposes for which companies should act (Wells, 1998), and Corporate Responsibility is the ‘liability attached to a company for actions done in its name (Wells, 1998). On 2002, McDonalds published its first Corporate Responsibility Report and this was followed up with an updated version in 2004. Neverthless many critics of McDonalds still believe that this, like many Corporate Responsibility Reports, is simply a medley of generalities and assumptions, that do not provide hard metrics of the company, its activities or its impacts on society and the environment (Hawken, 2002), and is ‘peripheral to the core interests of an organization (Strategic Direction, 2002). Consequentially, there is a need to analyse the claims made towards McDonalds, and whether they have been resolved within the two Corporate Responsibility Report. The incident which has done the most damage to McDonalds ethical reputation was the ‘McLibel trial, where the company expected a quick conclusion to its action against activists who had distributed a pamphlet, Whats Wrong with McDonalds?. Instead it ran for two and a half years and became the longest ever English trial , upon its completion in June 1997 (McSpotlight.org: The McLibel Trial, 2005). One of the main ethical criticisms consistently faced by McDonalds over the last 30 years relates to the food offered in its stores. Critics claim that McDonalds is a major contributing factor to the ver-increasing levels of obesity in the UK and European countries. Medical studies show that ‘waistlines are expanding faster in the UK than in any other European country†¦with 1 in 5 adults dangerously overweight (Walsh, 2003), while in 2001 it was reported that 300,000 deaths a year in the U.S. are related to obesity compared to 400,000 through cigarette smoking (McMans Depression and Bipolar Weekly, 2004). McDonalds contribution is a result of the unhealthy nature of fast food. For example, a meal of a Big Mac and medium fries would provide you with ‘910 calories, as well as 46g of fat, 13g of which are saturated (McDonalds.com, 2005). Considering the fact that this is half the Recommended Daily Allowance for a female adult, it is clear that McDonalds does not meet U. S. dietary requirements. Apart from obesity, ‘diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and some forms of cancer are related to a diet high in fat, saturated fat, salt and sugar (Inside the McLibel trial, 1995). The impacts of a McDonalds diet were clearly shown in Morgan Spurlocks controversial film ‘Super Size Me, where he ate nothing but McDonalds for one month. Although this was an extreme example, the impacts on Spurlock were dramatic. ‘Spurlock gained 25 pounds, raised his cholesterol by 60 points, dropped his libido and turned his liver into pate (McMans Depression and Bipolar Weekly, 2004). He also experienced headaches and depression, and actually became addicted to the products. The impact of a McDonalds diet on children is also a major ethical concern, as an increasing number of children are faced with obesity problems. ‘Every month, 90 percent of the children between 3 and 9 in America visit a McDonalds (Schlosser, 2001). McDonalds has been cri ticised for exploiting children with advertising. They have traditionally aimed themselves towards children with collectable toys in ‘Happy Meals, as well as colorful advertising campaigns and promotions in schools. Most criticized is the use of the Ronald McDonald clown character, which has been seen as a ‘cynical exploitation of children to use a clown to drum up business (Inside the McLibel trial, 1995). These marketing tactics contribute to the increasing unhealthy diet of many children. Stakeholders in a corporation may not only be human because animals are also seen as an important part of society and deserve the same treatment as humans. McDonalds has been criticized for the way it treats animals before they are killed and turned into fast food. ‘The corporation is the worlds largest promoter of meat-based products, the largest user of beef and the second largest user of chicken (McSpotlight.org: McDonalds and Animals, 2005), and thus is faced with the usual claims aimed at slaughterhouses. It is claimed that ‘chickens were crammed into sheds with less than one square foot of space per bird and no daylight (Inside the McLibel trial, 1995). As a result, ‘44% had leg abnormalities and other health problems (Inside the McLibel trial, 1995). This treatment was not just reserved for chicken but also other animals involved in McDonalds fast food products. 40% of piglets were held in indoor breeding units, and half had tails docked for no apparent reason (Inside the McLibel trial, 1995). Ethical criticism is also aimed at the methods for killing the animals. ‘14% of chickens received pre-stun shocks, which caused undue stress, while 1% (1,350 per day) were decapitated before being stunned (Inside the McLibel trial, 1995). As well as social ethical issues, corporations must also consider environmental ethics, which means treating natural resources not just as commodities, but as part of the ecological whole. It is important because it affects the image of the company and consumers perceptions. For example, ‘a Wall Street Journal poll in 1991 claimed that 53% of people avoided purchasing a product because of environmental concerns about a product or manufacturer (Hawken, 2002). The most famous environmental issue is the suggestion that McDonalds has destroyed hundreds of acres of Brazilian rainforest to make way for large-scale cattle ranching. This not only removes a valuable natural resource, but also has an impact on global warming, as the rainforest is an essential mechanism for the absorption of Carbon Dioxide in the atmosphere. McDonalds also ‘annually produces over a million tons of packaging used for just a few minutes before being discarded (McSpotlight.org: Environment, 2005). Traditionally a number of ozone depleting gasses were used in polystyrene foam packaging. In the 21st century, McDonalds uses almo

Saturday, July 20, 2019

Edgar Allan Poe Essay -- Edgar Allan Poe Structure Structuralism

Edgar Allan Poe Though an innumerable amount of interpretations of any given text might be drawn from a variety of perspectives, a structuralist analysis of two of Poe’s works help place their symbols within a theme related to myth and heroism. Peter Barry attempts to define structuralism succinctly by narrowing it down as â€Å"the belief that things cannot be understood in isolation—they have to be seen in the context of the larger structures they are part of†; he goes on to add that â€Å"meaning is always an attribute of things, in the literal sense that meanings are ATTRIBUTED to the things by the human mind, not contained within them† (39). One might attempt to further narrow this idea (ironically) by quoting the famous line, â€Å"Everything is relative,† which is to say, all reality is contingent upon the perceiver. The context in which that reality is being perceived becomes the point of interest, so that, in regard to literature, â€Å"there is a constant movement away from the interpretation of the individual literary work and a parallel drive towards understanding the larger, abstract structures which contain them† (Barry, 40). The question becomes not what, but how. It is interesting, then, to further define the crux of this theory in search of what conclusion a modern structuralist reading of a pre-structuralist author, namely Edgar Allan Poe, might yield. Structuralism itself is defined as â€Å"modern† but through its own origins â€Å"following the widely discussed applications of structural analysis to mythology by the anthropologist Claude Là ¨vi-Strauss† can be attributed to relatively recent intellectual movements, which then reflect back on the writings of Poe, perhaps evidencing inspiration for the theory in the firs... ...l and follows its progression panel by panel. Works Cited Baldick, Chris. â€Å"Structuralism.† OXFORD CONCISE DICTIONARY OF LITERARY TERMS. 2nd edition. New York: Oxford University Press, 2001. 245-246. Barry, Peter. â€Å"Structuralism.† BEGINNING THEORY: AN INTRODUCTION TO LITERARY AND CULTURAL THEORY. 2nd edition. Manchester: Manchester University Press, 2002. 39-60. Coogan, Peter M. â€Å"The Secret Origin of the Superhero: The Origin and Evolution of the Superhero Genre in America.† AMERICAN QUARTERLY. Vol 55, Iss. 4. College Park, December 2003. 801 Poe, Edgar Allan. â€Å"The Tell-Tale Heart.† RETELLINGS: A THEMATIC Literature Anthology. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2004. 404-407; â€Å"The Cask of Amontillado.† Classroom handout (SUNY Potsdam, Fall 2005, LITR 300, Dr. McNutt). 463-467.

Friday, July 19, 2019

Leadership and Change :: Management

Leadership and Change Management Introduction The gap between designing a new organization on paper and bringing it into reality is the domain of organization change and development. Kurt Lewin, a famous social psychologist, once wrote that a social organism becomes understandable only after one attempt to change it. It often happens that management's awareness for a new organization design emerges only after the start of an intensive change process. And even if it were possible for an omniscient manager to develop a master blueprint before introducing organization change, it is doubtful that other employees would readily accept the new design or have the required skills for making the design work. For these reasons, managers need to be as skillful at handling the question of how to introduce change as they are in diagnosing what needs to be changed (Adams and Spencer, 1986). This essay focuses on large-scale organization change, not on individual or small groups. The latter are obviously essential building blocks to organization change, but do not assure that a larger organizational unit will itself be transformed. Attention to additional variables beyond the individual and group is required in any organizational change, including such dimensions as multiple levels of authority, relationships between departments, environmental forces impinging on the organization, the climate of the organization, and the nature of the work flow that moves across departmental boundaries. In this paper I will discuss the concept of leadership as I have understood from my experience of what I have seen in a professional service firm. I will also discuss the change management process and my role in it. Objectives Of Organization Change If one were to "step back" after observing a number of organization changes, a variety of goals would seem to be present. These goals may be explicit and written down, or they may be implied by the actions of management. On the surface, the most common goals can be categorized under such labels as higher performance, acceptance of new techniques, greater motivation, more innovation, increased cooperation, reduced turnover, and so forth. Organizational changes are frequently directed at one or more of these general goals. Underlying these more obvious goals are usually two overarching objectives: Changes in an organization's level of adaptation to its environment, and Changes in the internal behavioral patterns of employees. Organizations are continually struggling to adapt themselves better to their external environment. Because the management Leadership and Change :: Management Leadership and Change Management Introduction The gap between designing a new organization on paper and bringing it into reality is the domain of organization change and development. Kurt Lewin, a famous social psychologist, once wrote that a social organism becomes understandable only after one attempt to change it. It often happens that management's awareness for a new organization design emerges only after the start of an intensive change process. And even if it were possible for an omniscient manager to develop a master blueprint before introducing organization change, it is doubtful that other employees would readily accept the new design or have the required skills for making the design work. For these reasons, managers need to be as skillful at handling the question of how to introduce change as they are in diagnosing what needs to be changed (Adams and Spencer, 1986). This essay focuses on large-scale organization change, not on individual or small groups. The latter are obviously essential building blocks to organization change, but do not assure that a larger organizational unit will itself be transformed. Attention to additional variables beyond the individual and group is required in any organizational change, including such dimensions as multiple levels of authority, relationships between departments, environmental forces impinging on the organization, the climate of the organization, and the nature of the work flow that moves across departmental boundaries. In this paper I will discuss the concept of leadership as I have understood from my experience of what I have seen in a professional service firm. I will also discuss the change management process and my role in it. Objectives Of Organization Change If one were to "step back" after observing a number of organization changes, a variety of goals would seem to be present. These goals may be explicit and written down, or they may be implied by the actions of management. On the surface, the most common goals can be categorized under such labels as higher performance, acceptance of new techniques, greater motivation, more innovation, increased cooperation, reduced turnover, and so forth. Organizational changes are frequently directed at one or more of these general goals. Underlying these more obvious goals are usually two overarching objectives: Changes in an organization's level of adaptation to its environment, and Changes in the internal behavioral patterns of employees. Organizations are continually struggling to adapt themselves better to their external environment. Because the management

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Essay -- essays research papers

Throughout history, man has been fascinated by the thought of flying among the clouds. But recently it seems that man is slowly starting to come back down to earth and complete aviation-required tasks with two feet firmly on the ground. As impossible as it may seem, aeronautics and aviation are doing something almost unfathomable: letting airplanes fly without a pilot. This amazing feat is being done through the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). These spectacular aircrafts are revolutionizing the aviation industry by using incredible technology and the brightest minds from all around the globe. Many prestigious aviation companies such as Boeing, Northrop Grumman, and Lockheed Martin, (to name a few) have led the way in the design and development of UAVs. Even though UAVs are seen as very modern and futuristic, the concept of flying without a pilot has been thought of for long time. (â€Å"Brief† 1) The idea was first tested during the United States Civil War, when both the North and South attempted to put explosives in a hot air balloon, and make them drop on the other side’s camp. The idea of using hot air balloons was used again in World War II by the Japanese, who attempted to bomb the United States by using wind to guide the balloons. During WWII, the U.S. had a more successful attempt at producing a UAV, a prototype called, â€Å"Operation Aphrodite.† (â€Å"Brief† 1) But it was the development of cruise missiles that paved the way for UAVs. The aeronautics company, Chance Vought Aircraft, is the company that took the first step in p roducing UAVs by proposing the idea of putting landing gear onto missiles. One of the first, full-functioning UAVs is the Firebee. The Firebee was designed by Ryan Aeronautical Company and u... ...form surveillance as well as artillery missions (â€Å"Production† 1). Other countries with UAV programs include North Korea, South Korea, India, Pakistan, Japan and Australia, to name a few (Wilson J.R). UAV technology is available to not only industrial superpowers, but also to smaller countries. Unmanned Aircraft are the future of aviation. When people think that the most advanced and best models cannot be topped, they are surprised to find that what they thought was the best, is merely a stepping stone of a field with tons of potential. UAVs are keeping humans safer but are also doing jobs that, without them, would be hard for humans to do. UAVs are the result of the most advanced technology known to mankind being put into an aircraft. With so many advanced models of UAVs already, it is amazing to ponder about what the future of UAVs will hold.

Thursday, July 18, 2019

Children’s ASPIRIN Essay

In 1986, FDA adopted a preliminary rule requiring aspirin manufacturers to add warnings to product labels about the possible association between aspirin use and the development of Reye’s syndrome. The permanent rule became final in 1988, and the labeling reads: Children and teenagers should not use this medicine for chicken pox or flu symptoms before a doctor is consulted about Reye’s Syndrome, a rare but serious illness. Until now, some questions about the relationship between aspirin and Reye’s syndrome still remain. Although figures show that 90 to 95 percent of Reye’s syndrome patients in the United States have taken aspirin during a preceding viral illness, it is estimated that less than 0. 1 percent of children having a viral infection and treated with aspirin develop the syndrome. Are other factors involved? Apparently so. Reye’s syndrome has always been a puzzling disease and the research on possible causes has been hampered because no one can come up with a simple specific diagnostic test for the syndrome. The waters are further muddled by the existence of at least 19 viruses, including the chicken pox and flu viruses, which cause infectious illnesses that can precede Reye syndrome development. Some experts have proposed that Reye’s syndrome develops from the interaction of a viral illness, genetic susceptibility to the disease, and exposure to chemicals. Soumerai, Ross-Degnan, and Kahn (1992) tell the story of the virtual disappearance of Reye’s Syndrome over a short period. Their narrative shows how debate in the scientific community and the health policy community was played over media outlets. The attention over both professional and, particularly, public communication channels were closely associated with the decline in disease incidence. They make a convincing case that the decline was not primarily associated with the timing of declared changes in policy or particular recommendations made to physicians, or even with the warnings placed on aspirin bottles. Rather, the decline followed immediately on increased coverage on these issues in the mass media. This is sensible, because much use of aspirin was independent of visits to physicians, and thus would be most sensitive to sources of change in public knowledge. Although there are no empirical studies that determine the link of aspirin and Reye’s Syndrome, Bayer should take this controversy seriously by doing research about it in order to finally lay this issue to rest. If Bayer proves that there is indeed no link between RS and Aspirin, it will be a positive feedback for the company and it will surely gain more support from the consumers. 8. ) What is the product strategy that Bayer is using as far as the placement of aspirin globally? Would you suggest something else? Since the early 80s, Bayer’s Children’s ASPIRIN business had been continuously falling downwards spiral. This scenario occurred when the US medical community suggested that there is an associated link between the consumption of children’s aspirin and the occurrence of a dangerous condition in children known as Reye’s Syndrome. Though the link was never proven, Bayer acted responsibly to the public relations crisis by self-imposing a worldwide ban on all promotion and advertisement of Children’s ASPIRIN in 1988. In the years that followed, Bayer had not fully reconsidered its strategy for Children’s ASPIRIN, nor had it considered introducing other analgesic products for children. For years, Zander had wanted to conduct a brand audit to determine the future of ASPIRIN in the children’s segment. But the project always fell behind something more pressing; given this new wave of publicity, it seemed like the time for the audit was now or never. Incidentally, with the decline within the children’s segment, there had been new discoveries opening other business opportunities. In 1985, the medical profession revealed that aspirin is effective in the prevention of heart attacks and strokes. As the prevention market developed, Zander and other managers at Bayer realized that an increasing percentage of Children’s ASPIRIN sales went to prevention. This was due, in part, to its lower cost but also to the lower dosage recommended for prevention (81–100 mg. compared to 325–500 mg. in adult aspirin). Unfortunately, the percentage of sales of Children’s ASPIRIN accounted for by the prevention market was unclear. In the creation of awareness of a pharmaceutical that generated additional sales, transferring market from ethical drug to over-the-counter (OTC) status is a strategy to increase market share and sales over the product life cycle of the drug. This strategy is one means of prolonging—and possibly increasing—sales revenues of the drug as generic copycats arrive on the market upon patent expiration. The value of the brand to the consumer differentiates otherwise identical and competing products. In placing the product globally without the aid of advertising, it is best to market through word-of-mouth of happy consumers who had found the product as effective. Also, producing empirical studies that disprove the link of Reye’s Syndrome could also thwart the past scare and would increase the credibility of the corporation. However, the combination of direct selling to doctors and direct advertising to consumers is expected to become the predominant global strategy of pharmaceutical companies in both ethical and OTC categories in the future. References Bayer Website. Buchanan, L. & Merker, C. K. (2002). Bayer AG : Children ’ s Aspirin. In A. A. Thompson, A. J. Strickland, & J. E. Gamble. Crafting and Executing Strategy -The Quest for Competitive Advantage, 14th ed. (New York: McGraw-Hill/Irwin). Soumerai S. B. , Ross-Degnan D. , & Kahn J. S. (1992). â€Å"Effects of professional and media warnings about the association between aspirin use in children and Reye’s syndrome†. Milbank Quarterly, 70( 1), 155-182.

Wednesday, July 17, 2019

A Discussion on the Thoughts and Philosophies of Pericles

IntroductionIt is innate among kinds to be fascinated by the dissimilar things that they peculiarly see roughly them (Durant, 1986, 10). It could non be denied then that finished the years, this finical trance within the antithetical elements that could be seen in the charit suit suitable-bodied environment actu onlyy verit competent into the many discoveries and inventions that man existences produced (Sternberg, 1989, 31). Through vent civilization of homo, it could be notice that the plenty were neer contented with what they already conk or what they take already accomplished. This is in p artistryicular certain in terms of experience and technology as well as in arts and books (Ambuel, 2006, 15). It is hence undeniable that state recreate the things that atomic number 18 already existent within their aver parliamentary procedure. The fact that they lead already been able to see what they could do regarding a certain type of field (Cooper, 1997, 18), they intend to steady do let on the net duration that they deal with the same invention. Yes, mankinds never get tired of reinventing everything there is in the environment. Why is this so?Human intuition has al sorts been tell by philosophers as the primary factor that makes the valet being different from that of the some other God-made creations. The populace cap mightiness to innovate their own achievements to even better results for the hand over generation to see, has particularly remark them to be those who ar competent of reinventing themselves to be able to evolve from generations to generations. (Corlett, 2005, 17)To discuss this particular fact further, take an example of the adult male lit. It is overwhelming enough to see that the decree straight off is already flooded by the many informations that be presented to mankind through and through the printed pages of literature. More than that, the emergence of internet technology has paved the way even for critic writers to make mention of their persuasions to the earthly disturbance for them to be appreciated and particularly affect others opinions as well (Cooper, 1997, 10).Literature forward was primarily defined as an art of writing that espo holds certain rules that argon set enough to keep its standards within the unmingled range of reading. However, when the different generations along with the historic events covered the homo generations development (Ambuel, 2006, 15), the art of literature became bingle of the major fulfill by which military man intended to express their suasions and their predicaments ab start the things that atomic number 18 going on in the atomic number 18a. As a result, much and much batch joined the bandwagon of writing and began to sh be their thoughts to the world with regards the rationalises that primarily concern the valet golf-club today. (Bakalis, 2005, 17)This particular progress in literature has primarily been fur ther fueled by the democratic arrangement of the major governments around the world, giving a chance for the exemption of compassionate expression. It is through this that pot became more(prenominal) aware of the world around them, they cared more than ever with the political agendas, the social recognizes as well as other informations that concern their interests (Cooper, 2005, 16). True, the changing situation in the society and the demand towards progress requires that human apprehension be perfected in a way that it particularly caters to the necessitys of the inbuilt humanity. The human brains world power to store and restructure informations that were accepted by it through the years of an individuals life is particularly a test copy that the application of humanity intelligence operation could relieve be perfected as generations are quiet to come along. (Allen, 2006, 18)In the same vagary, two the philosophers Plato and Pericles believed that humans are indeed capable of being highly involved with developments as they are certainly given the high-mindedness of becoming the best at anything. They subprogram their instinct accompanied by their need of fulfilling what they particularly opt to find out about life as a satisfaction to their curious minds (Sternberg, 1989, 14). Although two philosophers believed in this particular through, they did direct different approaches in presenting the lawfulness about their claims (Cooper, 1997, 13). To understand the issue better, the thoughts and philosophies of both Pericles and Plato shall be discussed within the paragraphs that follow in two separate presentations.The Thoughts of PlatoPlato has been wide cognise in the human news report of ism as the establisher of the western culture. His taking over on the position left by Aristotle and Socrates has n singled him to be among the close to skilful battalion who have lived in human history (Corlett, 1997, 25). His special skills in lite rature and the mind boggling explanation of human philosophy has particularly allowed him to become peerless of the most sought after philosophers of the world. As a philosopher, Plato has been known for his susceptibility to validate his claims through mathematical pattern of assumptions as he present his ideas through his writings (Corlett, 2005, 27). The possibilities and the calculation of how the human mind reacts to certain situations has been noted to be among the best expertise of Plato himself.As nonpareil of the foundations of human philosophy, Plato contributed so much on the knowledge of people at present. Plato has been known for the presentation of his thoughts through the use of dialogues. The conversations among people have been utilized by Plato as a way by which he could convey his ideas to the people. Moreover, the said dialogues discussed different issues of human elements that could noticeably be utilise to explain the different difficulties that could be considered when the composition about human behavior comes into attention. (Durant, 1986, 31)Among the consequential issues that his dialogues mainly cater to are that of the begin and news relationship, the truth behind the human substantiallyism, and the qualification of humans to perceive the truth from illusionary imaginations (Bakalis, 205, 93). On the first issue cited herein, the relation of father and son have always fascinated the mind of Plato as he tries to position the connection among the father and the son as both grow further towards maturity. Among the answers he commonly opt to discuss is that of the ways by which the values that the father implies on the son contribute to the personal growth and being of that particular individual. Most likely, Plato has long been essay to identify how the elements of fatherhood rattling charm the acceptance of different individuals of the teachings, thus applying them as values for themselves to learn from and later o n apply in their own systems of alimentation.The secant issue presented is on the realism of the human population. This particularly points out to the ability of humans to use their reasoning and their intelligent perspicaciousness of the things that they hear, they see, and they observe, thus defining on which one is actually true and which one is on the other hand speculative. True, people have this particular ability of knowing what is real from what is not. However, the reasoning behind such ability is somewhat complex, and this is what actually moved Plato to identify the factors that affect the human judgment on such elemental factors in the human society.The third topic of attention is that of the originative abilities of humans. True, humans enjoy the fact that they are able to imagine different things as a part of their intellectual capabilities. When sprightliness down and depressed, people usually use their capabilities of imagining things to at least ease them from the truths of their present situation. However, although many consider imagination as gift, it could not be denied that the human ability of coming back to reality could still help them set their decision on which one is the real situation differentiating it from the imaginary elements that they themselves have created in their minds.(Ambuel,2006, 15)Through these thoughts, Plato also tried and true to imply on his writing the idea on the real world, whereas he refers to the present system of things to be provided a shadow of the real world, referring to the people at present as those who are living in an imaginary world. True, this thought might seem quite perplexing at some point. However, if closely sight, it could not be denied that the situation is quite obvious. It all boils down to the reality of the people. Because of the fact that humans are less able to become rea inclinationic with who they are, they are then then living their lives in an unrealistic world that make s it even harder for themselves to zap back into the real life that they ought to face. This is in correspondence to the doubts of humans as to why they are at times in trouble of determination what they really want out of living on earth.The Thoughts of PericlesPericles has been known to be among the list of the most successful ancient politicians of the human history. This is most likely because of the skill that he himself has faced during his rule in Athens. pull down when he was still on his way in being inspired in becoming an icon of the public, he knew that the tariff that he was about to take was not that easy to fulfill (Corlett, 2005, 48). This is when he was actually able to take into consideration the perceptiveness that he must gain with regards the philosophical make up of humankind. Dealing with people of different individualities naturally urged Pericles to search in an in-depth way on the beliefs and the elements that contribute to human behavior and developmen t. Hence, he has also be fascinatingly interested in human philosophical education.As he progressed in the learning, he himself has been urged to bring out the best among the people that he led. Particularly referring to the ability of humans to speak out their minds for others to hear their thoughts, he implied amongst his people the importance of ones ability to at least freely speak off their minds to the public (Cooper, 1997, 18). This, match to him, is one of the most important rights a person could have, a certain process by which an individual would be able to experience the reality of life that he is supposed to live with.ConclusionYes, it is indeed true that the human intelligence continues to grow through the years of its history. With the contributed foundation by those who have led the way in consciousness the human capability of thinking and playacting upon what they believe in, the human society today is now more confident in what they believe in, more expressive of their thoughts and more imaginative on their ways of veneering the truth of their lives.From the discussion presented above, it could be observed that Plato particularly proffered on discussion the soak factors that contribute to the continuous improvement of human intelligence. Moreover, the said thought has been mainly found by the philosopher through explaining his claims using the different dimensions of math and human philosophy. Constantly referring to the ability of the mind to imagine and to bring its thought back to reality has noted Plato as one of the most remarkable philosophers who were able to unlock the truth behind human imagination. On the other hand, Pericles has been mostly concentrate on the ability of humans to dispense their thoughts and actually affect the society that they are living in. It is through their freedom of speechmaking their thoughts off to the public that they are able to make the necessary changes that they ought to contribute to their co mmunities.Certainly, if observed closely, Percles and Platos belief on the capabilities of humans to use their capabilities well explains how the human intelligence is actually used in the systems by which the human civilization progresses towards modernity. As people are able to imagine and air their thoughts to others, they are able to make different, at times even great changes to the societies that they are living in. The thoughts of the two philosophers as discussed herein could be noted as one of the most important influence that they both have left the human society.REFERENCESRobert J. Sternberg. (1989). vade mecum of Human Intelligence. Cambridge University Press.Allen, R.E. (2006). Studies in Platos Metaphysics II. Parmenides Publishing. ISBN 978-1-930972-18-6Ambuel, David (2006). Image and mental image in Platos Sophist. Parmenides Publishing. ISBN 978-1-930972-004-9Bakalis, Nikolaos (2005). Handbook of Greek philosophy From Thales to the Stoics Analysis and Fragments, Trafford Publishing ISBN 1-4120-4843-5Cooper, John M. & Hutchinson, D. S. (Eds.) (1997). Plato end Works. Hackett Publishing Co., Inc. ISBN 0-87220-349-2.Corlett, J. Angelo (2005). Interpreting Platos Dialogues. Parmenides Publishing. ISBN 978-1-930972-02-5Durant, Will (1986). The allegory of Philosophy. Simon & Schuster. ISBN 0-671-69500-2.Lawrence S. Cunningham and John J. Reich. Culture & Values A SURVEY OF THE HUMANITIES, volume one/one-sixth edition, Library of Congress Control topic 2005923993.