Running Head Wal

Introduction This assignment is a discussion of the topic of pricing in a business context. The discussion is based on Wal-Mart, which is a company operating in the United States of America. The issue of the main concern is to compare and contrast two articleson how Wal-Mart Company deals with its employees in regard to their remunerations and the pricing of its products.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Running Head: Wal-Mart Pricing and Employee Remunerations specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The topic of pricing of goods and services and employee relations within organizations is one of the topics which draw a lot of varying view points from various stakeholders, with each side taking a passionate stand. Background Information about the Topic The arguments about employee remunerations and pricing of products are centered on the issue of whether organizations should pass the baggage of reduced prices to their emp loyees, with some people arguing that in a free market economy, market forces should be allowed to take their natural course while others argue that employers are not justified in reducing the wages of their employeesdue to reduced prices. The topic is however very wide,and therefore, requires a wide coverage in research, which should combine both longitudinal and cross sectional studies so as to inform the policies and regulations of the international labor laws and regulations for the labor unions. Information on Sources and Brief Summary of Articles In an attempt to analyze this topic, various authors use various organizations and companies tosupport theirarguments. Some of the authors, who have attempted to give their views on the topic, are Robert B. Reich in an article titled‘Don’t Blame Wal-Mart’ and John Semmens in thearticletitled ‘Wal-Mart is good for the economy’. As the titles of these articles suggest, both articles are based on the Wal- Martcompany. The article by Robert Reich is found in the Blair Reader, while the article by John Semmens is found in an online resource. The article by Robert Reich talks about Wal-Mart and the pricing of its products. The author asserts that the company is justified in having the suppliers drive away the costs out of the supply chain so as to keep the prices of the goods as low as possible. According to Robert, the company heavily relies on Indian and Chinesemanufactures due to their low costs of production.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Theauthorargues that many of the Wal-Marts’ competitors and bitter rivals in business are using political propaganda to destroy a good image of Wal-Mart inthe eyes of the public, who are also its customers (Reich, 2005). The author argues that the company should not be blamed for the way in which it does its business (relying on ex ternal manufactures and paying the employees low wages) but the American people should be blamed for theirconflicting interests in their purchasing behaviors, values and the desire for ‘good deals’. The article by John Semmens is about capitalistic nature of the American economy and the world’s economy in general. The author puts forward a spirited argument in which he completely down plays the allegations made against the Wal-Mart company by providing the evidence that the allegations are not based on facts, rather on a smear campaign by rival companies to bring down the Wal-Martcompany. Thestrongest allegation by the rival companies and individuals is that Wal-Mart is a ‘corporate criminal’ (Semmens, 2005). The author analyzes the allegations one by one, and proves them to be totally misguided, illogical, outdated, irrational and, therefore,unfortunate. He is of the view that the company should,in fact, be commented for its efforts to boost the liv ing standards of many Americans, as well as providing job opportunities to massive populationsin America and across the globe (Semmens, 2005). Thesis From the arguments in the two articles, the Wal-Mart company should not be blamed for the way it operates because its operations, practices, and functions are based on the general principles of capitalistic economy, and, therefore, its rivals should come up with strategies to increase their competitive advantage instead of engaging in petty, illogical, and unsubstantiated allegations against Wal-MartCompany. Discussion Similaritiesof the Articles One similarity between the two articles is that the authors support the Wal-Mart’s idea of offering its customers low prices. They are of the view that the American people and the world in general are in need of many such companies, which are ready to help in uplifting the living standards of many people through providing goods and services which are affordable, accessible, and of a goo d quality. The two articles also agree on the fact that the company is not in any way exploiting its workers but it’s actually helping them. This is because the employees are not forced by the company to work there, but do this because it is their best option.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Running Head: Wal-Mart Pricing and Employee Remunerations specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More According tothe authors of the two articles, therefore, the allegation that the company is exploiting the employees is simply aimed at damaging the good image of the company in the eyes of its customers. They both cite the good relationshipbetween the company and the surrounding communities, arguing that Wal-Mart is one of the few companies which have involved themselves in tangible corporate social responsibilityactivities. Differencesof the Articles One difference betweenthe articles is in the reasons which they give in their defense of the Wal-Mart’s practices. The article by John Semmens defends the company by arguing that the companyoperates under the principles of capitalisticeconomy. Semmens argues that the company is free to offer low prices to the customers and look for alternatives of minimizing the costs of production, one of which includes using cheap labor, as well as relying on cheap costs of production (Semmens, 2005). On the other hand, the article by Robert Reich defends the company by arguing that the Americans blame the practices of the company because they are not ready or are unable to solve their cognitive dissonance between theirdesire to have the ‘best deals in the market in terms of prices’ as customers and the best ‘deals in the job market’ asemployees. Robertargues that the company uses external manufactures so as to offer the minimal prices as possible so that the American people can get closer to quenching their desire to have good deals (Reich, 2005). Conclusion Summary of the Whole Essay This essay was about the low pricing of goods and servicesprovided byWal-Mart Company in the United States. The essay was based on twoarticles written by differentauthors. The first article was written by John Semmens,and it is tilted ‘Wal-Mart is good for the economy’,while the second article waswritten by Robert Reich and was titled ‘Don’t Blame Wal-Mart’. Both articles support Wal-Mart’s idea of doing business in an aggressive manner and especially the strategy of offering the lowest prices possible on its goods and services.Advertising Looking for essay on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Restatement of Thesis Inthe two articles, the authors argue that Wal-MartCompanyshould not be blamed on the way it operates because its operations, practices, and functions are based on the general principles of capitalistic economy, and therefore its rivals should come up with strategies to increase their competitive advantage instead of engaging in petty, illogical, and unsubstantiated allegations against Wal-MartCompany. References Reich, R.B. (2005). Don’t Blame Wal-Mart. The New York Times. Semmens, J. (2005). Wal-Mart Is Good for the Economy. The Freeman: Ideas on Liberty. Web. This essay on Running Head: Wal-Mart Pricing and Employee Remunerations was written and submitted by user Miah Mooney to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

Family Essays - Sojourner Truth, Burning Of Rome, Family Scholarship

Family Essays - Sojourner Truth, Burning Of Rome, Family Scholarship Family Scholarship Essay Since the day I was born, I have enjoyed story-telling. My first memories are of my father spinning me tales, as I nodded off. Every night I traveled back in time through his stories. I learned of Nero's sadistic burning of Rome, Adolph Hitler's maniacal reign, and Sojourner Truth's brilliant speech. All elements of our historical heritage, for which I have great affection. When I was quite young, my father purchased our very first computer. Through his hobby, I grew to love the technical side of the world in which we live. Through the years, we have owned many computers and they each taught me something new. Due to these two loves, I have chosen to double major in history and computer science. "Jewel, you have to make it. I want you to finish what the rest of us have started. You must finish college," my grandmother has stated to me many times. No one in my family has completed a four year degree. It is my intent to blaze a trail for my posterity, as also is my grandmother's ambition. As long as I can remember it has been my fondest dream (and my furthest goal) to attend college. From the beginning, I knew it would be an uphill climb to gain admission into a prestigious university. Lately I have realized I cannot reach my dreams alone. I need assistance financially. Through applying for financial aid, I am able to alleviate this need. I sincerely hope that you will seriously consider my application.

Strategic Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Strategic Management - Essay Example This innovative and stylistic format has brought widespread attention from companies such as Apple, as well as consumers who are attuned to quality. The consideration of Apple’s implementation of the bags is significant on a number of grounds. Apple’s approach to technological development places high emphasis on branding as well as quality. Their decision to implement FREITAG bags is then contingent on the quality and branding elements, specifically the artistic and stylistic forms these products are able to achieve. Conversely, there are resources that the firm believes are strategic, but in reality are not. FREITAG is an organization that implements sustainable resources as a means of creating their bags. The case study notes, â€Å"Every FREITAG bag is composed of used materials only: old truck tarpaulins, used seat belts for the straps and bicycle inner tubes to keep the edges from fraying, a specification that places it at the more imposing end of the spectrum of sustainable design† (FREITAG). It is clear that the organization believes that the implementation of these supplies is strategic, as it not only is socially responsible, but also makes positive contributions to its image. While such a notion makes sense, in reality it appears that it is not the sustainability aspect that has given the bags their cache, but instead the quality and inventiveness of production; this is evidenced in Apple’s use of the bags, a company that is notoriously concerned with quality. Again, while Apple places considerable emphasis on quality and stylistic product form, they are willing to sacrifice social responsibility – one considers their involvement in the Chinese sweatshop scandal – to achieve these aims. Such a recognition demonstrates it is not this sustainability that is highlighted in the FREITAG bags, but instead their greatest resource is the stylistic quality they are able to achieve. 2. There are many ways that a firmâ⠂¬â„¢s culture and belief system affects its ability to compete. One of the most prominent examples occurs in terms of Google, Inc. In understanding how a firm’s culture and belief system affects its competitive ability one considers institutional theory. Institutional perspectives on organizational culture argue that the organizational culture that is established within an institution impacts all incoming employees. In these regards, as individuals enter the culture they may initially resist the overarching institutional belief system, but ultimately tend towards the overriding paradigm (Clement 2005). It follows that organizations which implement the most successful organizational culture will in-turn have a workforce that directly contribute to organizational success. One recognizes that the challenge then becomes what is the most successful organizational culture to implement. Adams, Hill, & Roberts (2011) consider that the success of organizational culture is oftentimes contingent on uniting the workforce under the auspices of a goal that goes beyond mere financial concerns, but also involves their sense of meaning. Within Google, Inc. it is clear that the organization has gone beyond mere profit considerations. The organization has implemented the popular slogan ‘Don’t Be Evil’. This demonstrates that Google has shown great concern for product development that does not implement shady means. In addition to uniting the workf

European Union Law Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

European Union Law - Essay Example In its logical form, the treaty seeks to promote free movement of goods to bridge the cross-border gap that exists between different European Union countries. Even regardless of such laws and treaty, some countries have been found to be putting undue restrictions on fellow European Union countries so that there would be a concentration of market in those countries. The strategy used by those who put the restrictions has been to place huge charges on cross border goods to discourage free movement. In response, Articles 23(1) and 25 (9(1) and 12) ECT of the treaty touches on prohibition of charges having an effect equivalent to that of customs duties, which discourages all such charges to the exclusion of a similar domestic product (European Parliament Fact Sheets, 2012). Relevant primary and secondary legislation From CJ Case 8/74, 11 July 1974, it could be seen that with reference to Olio Nuovo, Article 28(30), ECT of the Treaty on the Functioning on the functioning of the European U nion (TFEU) can be applied to its logical conclusion to give him a lot of legal redress to the current situation in which he finds himself. In the first play, there is a primary legislature on the free movement of goods and services within the European Union region (Kuyper, 1993). As a marketer from Greece to Italy, Olio Nuevo is covered by this primary legislation because both countries are within the European Union zone. This is a very strong basis for Nuevo to begin any legal process with an ambition of putting forth legal damages for any losses that he might have recorded. This is because according to the case in which Nuevo finds himself, there is being an unconstitutional attempt of hindering, directly or indirectly, actually or potentially, intra-Community trade, which the European Parliament Fact Sheets (2012), states that â€Å"are to be considered as measures having an effect equivalent to quantitative restrictions.† What is more, there are secondary laws such as th ose that specify the kind of products and materials that could cross European Union neighbouring borders. Examples of such European Union laws are those on the forbidding of arms and drugs trade. Since Nuevo did not attempt to trade any of such illegal products, there also is a very strong legal case to be heard should Nuevo decide to pursue the case to its legal conclusion. Exceptions to the Rule As it is literary said, to every rule there are exceptions. The Treaty on the Functioning on the functioning of the European Union (TFEU), which makes previsions for free movement of trade across European Union members States borders also have its own legal limitation or exceptions as far as the application of the rules are concerned. Under Article 30 (36) of ECT of the treaty, factors such as protection of public health, public morality and public security are all captured as exemptions under which Member States may take personal measures on having effect equivalent to quantitative (Europ ean Parliament Fact Sheets, 2012). This means is that the interest of the consumer always comes first when dealing with the movement of good (Eeckhout and Govaere, 1992). The legal implication here is that the host country where Nuevo wants to start

The role of coaching in improving performance Essay

The role of coaching in improving performance - Essay Example Had it not been for the coaching that they had received at the right time, they would still be struck at one place or the other. International Coach Federation (ICF), the international accrediting body for coaching, the defines coaching as, â€Å" an ongoing partnership that helps [people] produce fulfilling results in their personal and professional lives and†¦deepen their learning, improve their performance, and enhance their quality of life†. In Sir John Whitmore’s words, coaching is defined as â€Å"unlocking a person’s potential to maximize their own performance. It is helping them to learn rather than teaching them.† (Whitmore 2002). A coach could be someone to train you in a new skill, encourage and motivate you, give you feedback for improvement and provide you with individual attention. Plants grow in wild; however they cannot match the yield from that of a well-cultured farm. The culturing that creates a well-maintained farm out of an unevenly undulated jungle in what coaching does to an individual. At an organization level, training plays a very significant role. After getting fresh talent into the organization, it is the responsibility of the management, to ensure that they are provided with the right training plus coaching at the right time. Only this will guarantee that they work in alignment to company’s goals and objectives. Coaching at its basic level is ‘observation and feedback’. (Luecke 2004). This simple yet magical definition can turn around organizations and boost-up individual performances to great heights. That is, coaches will normally be experts, who has 360 degree experience in the field, using which they can guide prospective employees on the opportunities and challenges of undergoing coaching. (Sherman and Freas 2004). The corrective measures needed or the area to be focused and worked upon will be obtained through the feedback. Thus coaching can pump in the invaluable component of ‘trigger for change’ into

Albert Camus The Outsider Meursault

Albert Camus The Outsider Meursault Statement of intent: This assignment is based on Albert Camus The Outsider. One of the classic examples of an existentialist novel, The Outsider tells the story of an unremarkable man, living a simple, bachelor existence in Algeria. He is unmoved by his mothers death, and a day after begins a love affair with Marie Cordona. He soon after becomes involved in a violent murder and is placed on trial. Because of his refusal to lie and give in to societys demands (pretending to feel grief and remorse), he eventually condemns himself and is put to death. In this assignment I wish to convey Marie Cordonas feelings about Meursault and her view of his case. Marie is a simple, uncomplicated girl who enjoys life, appears to fall in love easily, wants to marry Meursault and live a normal life. Though she is slightly shocked when Meursault tells her that his mother died only a day before their meeting at the pool, she does not rethink spending time with him or watching a comedy with him. Like Meursault, Marie takes pleasure in physical contact; she often kisses him and enjoys the act of sex. However, Meursaults affection for Marie is purely physical while her affection for him evokes a deeper sentimental and emotional attachment. At first she doesnt understand Meursaults character and is taken aback by his indifference of love: She asked me if I loved her. I told her that it didnt mean anything but that I didnt think so. She looked sad. When Meursault expresses the same attitude towards marriage, again she is confused However, though she may be disappointed, she never considers ending the relationship or does not rethink her desire to marry him and indeed, throughout the novel I believe she starts to gain an acceptance of his behaviour, an understanding perhaps. Her attraction towards him seems, in fact, to stem from the fact that she is intrigued by his persona, his strange behavior seems to be part of his appeal for her She mumbled that I was peculiar, that that was probably why she loved me but that one day I might disgust her for the very same reason. Marie remains loyal to Meursault when he is arrested and put on trial, she visits him in prison and writes him letters and then testifies in his favor during the court case. She remains faithful and hopeful and imagines a life once Meursault is let out: she was still smilingshe shouted again, Youll get out and well get married! Marie never expresses appall or anger towards Meursault or his actions, she never doubts that he is an innocent man and that the crime he committed does not reflect his true self: Marie burst into tears and said it wasnt like thatshe knew me and I hadnt done anything wrong However, because Marie stays hopeful throughout, she never reaches the understanding Meursault attains at the end. While Meursault realizes and accepts the indifference of the universe, Marie never understands the redemptive value of abandoning hope, and her hope is therefore shattered when Meursault is eventually put to death. For the purpose of this assignment, it has been imagined that there were some sort of funeral proceedings after Meursaults execution. After all, though his strange behaviour remained a mystery to most that surrounded him, many did not judge him and accepted him as he was, knowing that, despite his actions he was not an evil man, nor did he have a criminal mind. By assuming that there were funeral proceedings, a situation is created where a eulogy from the perspective of one of the people of Meursaults close entourage wouldve been spoken out. Marie, having been intimately involved with him and having been one of those who observed and tried to analyse him, seems to be an appropriate choice for this task. A eulogy should be personal; it shares happy memories, tells anecdotes and describes the persons character. It also aims to express the values that were important to the deceased, highlights accomplishments and career or educational merits. The aim of this assignment is therefore to do this from Maries point of view, about Meursault. The eulogy: I once asked Meursault if he loved me. It doesnt mean anything he replied, but I dont think so. One would naturally feel offended by such a response, and I wasat first. But I soon came to understand that this was Meursault. This was Meursault in his all his splendor and it is for this peculiar nature of his that I believe I was attracted to him, loved him even. I first met Meursault when I was working as a typist in the office where he worked. He had always struck me as handsome young man, charming and somewhat mysterious. We had connected and enjoyed each others company. However it was short lived as I soon found a job elsewhere and left the company. I had not seen him for several months when we bumped into each other at the bathing station at the port It is true that I wouldnt have thought for a single moment that his mother had died only a day earlier; we spent a wonderful afternoon swimming and enjoying the sun together, I was happy, he was happy, and we just felt so comfortable around each other that we engaged in a relationship that very day. I was slightly taken aback when he told me his mother had died the day before, and it didnt seem natural that he would he take me out to see a Fernandel film after such an event, but I must admit that I had soon forgotten about it. After all we were both just two young people, enjoying an easy life, a life that, for Meursault, in spite of everything had not really changed. So why were we to deprive ourselves? Meursault was an intelligent man, though not ambitious. He valued his simple yet exotic life, over a wealthier career opportunity in Paris. He enjoyed the simple pleasures in life; lazing on the beach, swimming in the sea, going to cinemas It is always something I loved about spending time with him, I always felt carefree, relaxed, beautiful. I could always be myself around him, he never judged or complained. Ill miss our beach excursions, our romantic nights to the cinema, and our playful adventures in the sea. Meursault was uninterested in grieving death, proposing marriage, loving even. But he had a passion for something I believe to be much more admirable. Honesty was what I valued most in him. He was an honest man, purely and sometimes painfully, and maybe he did not love me in the conventional sense of the word, but he was in love with something much greater, something our society today seems to value less and less; Meursault was stubbornly yet admirably in love with truth. I still remember visiting him at the prison; I was so full of hope and blind determination that when it would all be over, we would be married, and we would go swimming again, we would enjoy life together. Maybe I thought the jury would be able to see the man he really was, the man I knew, and would spare him. Yes, he did kill a man. Yes, he never showed grief for his mothers death. But he was no murderer. He was a criminal only to our societys rules and codes of conduct. Is it wrong not to pretend grief? Not to pretend remorse? Love? In this conventional society yes; pretending and lying would have saved Meursault. But he was true to himself, he refused to be a hypocrite and pretend to emotions he did not feel and for that I believe he cannot be blamed. Unfortunately it is for that reason that he was condemned and that he is no longer here with us today. But I hope that all of you gathered here now, think of him like I do, not as a murderer, not as a criminal, but as a man who, without any heroic pretensions, agreed to give his life for the truth. And for this I believe he deserves our respect and admiration. Meursault, je taime.

The Sins of Gregor Samsa of Franz Kafka’s The Metamorphosis Essay

The Sins of Gregor Samsa of Franz Kafka’s The Metamorphosis Gregor Samsa’s crimes originate from his intense devotion to his family, and thus in his intense devotion to his work, which in turn makes him intently devout to the conformist society that creates his world. Gregor’s crimes are not of the scope that contains what one may consider normal or standard crimes, and his motivations come from a separate set of values than those that society would consider to be the median. As a result of Gregor’s abnormal and distinctive crimes, he becomes the victim of an odd punishment that indirectly benefits all of Gregor’s previously mentioned motivations. Within the text of Franz Kafka’s The Metamorphosis, Gregor’s awkward punishment turns out to be his transformation into a despicable and horrid bug. Gregor’s transformation is due to his crimes, which include alienating and losing himself in his work, stealing the position of head of the house from his father, and becoming a conformist in a society th at needs deviation to define and justify its conformity. Gregor’s punishment of transformation gives him the ability to repent for all of the crimes for which he has been convicted of by himself and society and make right all of his aforementioned wrongs. Gregor’s dedication to his job remains undeniable; even directly after the metamorphosis Gregor has plans for making it to work, alibi a few moments late. However, despite his dedication, Gregor refuses to be satisfied with his job and all that it entails, most especially his treatment. â€Å"What a fate; to be condemned to work for a firm where the slightest negligence gave rise to the greatest suspicion† (Kafka 9). The disdain for his job happens to be warranted, just as his ded... ...elf, or prepare to accept the consequences, whatever they maybe. Works Cited Honig, Edwin. â€Å"The Making of Allegory.† The Metamorphosis. New York: Bantam Books, 1981. 138-142. Kafka, Franz. The Metamorphosis. New York: Bantam Books, 1981 Kaiser, Hellmuth. â€Å"Kafka’s Fantasy of Punishment.† The Metamorphosis. New York: Bantam Books, 1981. 147-156. McNeil, Russell. â€Å"Gregor Samsa as Functional Deviant.† The Kafka Project. Feb 11,2003. Nabokov, Vladimir. â€Å"Lecture on ‘The Metamorphosis.’† The Kafka Project. Feb. 11, 2003. http://www.kafka.org/verw_issue/nabokov.htm Sokel, Walter. â€Å"Education for Tragedy.† The Metamorphosis. New York: Bantam Books, 1981. 169-186. Webster, Peter. â€Å"Franz Kafka’s ‘Metamorphosis’ as Death and Resurrection Fantasy.† The Metamorphosis. New York: Bantam Books, 1981. 157-168.

Is deception ever justified

Deception is sometimes justified. People shouldn't be satisfied with themselves sees when they play this card every time they can, but it is true that sometimes it is require red. It shouldn't be used following a mean purpose as human ethic dictates; Actually it dictate s that lies shouldn't even exist in our thoughts. However people deceive, ignoring with t hat action this principle. The best relationships are based in always telling the truth.That can get us star Eng ointment towards friends or causes, so strong that we would be willing to lie to protect them. Lying in order to cover a friend or an important cause is often consider De as a good action depending on the scenario. Jose Marti, the most remarkable character I n Cuban History, once said that there are some things that in order to realize them you have to keep them in the shadows. Moreover, probably he had to lie one or two times to ca err on with the Cuban revolution after all, but no one would dare to say that he was a mean an just because of that.The feeling of guiltiness when you lie must not be lost. If that happen You'll g et used to the shortcuts that a lie can provide, and therefore become ‘addict' to it. Yes, lying deliberately can get those who don't know when it's better to say the truth in a hole eve hard to come out . Like a friend I have that is always customizing his stories making g them so glorious that seem out of this world. At the end we always discover that those stories are lies, ND he is trying to make us think that he is amazing. Ultimately we just stoop De believing what he said; whether it is true or not. Now, it is so hard to trust in whatever came out of his mouth. There is the difference between using deception because it's necessary and f or a major good, or because you like it. I would like to believe that will always tell the true the, unless there is a life or death matter on the table that requires me to lie, of course.

Free Essays on Captain Corelli’s Mandolin

The Part Of Corelli That I Couldn't Live Without. Identify Which Part Of The Book Really Resonated With You Then Justofy Your Choice. Captain Corelli’s Mandolin is a novel that has touched many people. Its unique blend of humour with romance and the raw harsh reality of war and how it can affect people’s lives has chimed with many people’s own personal experiences, making it a touching and emotive read. This is why, when asked to choose just one part of the novel I could pick that resonated with me, I had difficulty. I identified with the character Pelagia, being the only young female character and her ‘courting’ period with Corelli reminded me of some of my own experiences – showing me that in some ways things don’t change over the years. However, it is Carlo whose story I found most compelling. The giant soldier with a heart just as big hiding his sexuality and carrying with him a story of woe was touching and poignant to read. The part of the novel that I resonated most with was Chapter 19; ‘L’omosessuale 6’, wherein Carlo has to visit the mother of his beloved Francesco who has died in battle. He has to break the news to her and his wife. I found this part of the novel particularly emotive due to the deep interest and concern built up over the characters over the chapters. De Bernieres uses the writing technique of writing in first person for some chapters, using the voices of each character. This helps the reader get a better idea of what they are thinking and gain a better understanding of each different personality. This is vital with a character like Carlo. He carries with him the secret of his sexuality as though it is a disease â€Å"I had to live among them secretly, like one who conceals leprosy† he reveals in his second of six specially dedicated chapters in the first half of the book. This insight into his personality develops over these chapters and he reveals his deep love for his best frien... Free Essays on Captain Corelli’s Mandolin Free Essays on Captain Corelli’s Mandolin The Part Of Corelli That I Couldn't Live Without. Identify Which Part Of The Book Really Resonated With You Then Justofy Your Choice. Captain Corelli’s Mandolin is a novel that has touched many people. Its unique blend of humour with romance and the raw harsh reality of war and how it can affect people’s lives has chimed with many people’s own personal experiences, making it a touching and emotive read. This is why, when asked to choose just one part of the novel I could pick that resonated with me, I had difficulty. I identified with the character Pelagia, being the only young female character and her ‘courting’ period with Corelli reminded me of some of my own experiences – showing me that in some ways things don’t change over the years. However, it is Carlo whose story I found most compelling. The giant soldier with a heart just as big hiding his sexuality and carrying with him a story of woe was touching and poignant to read. The part of the novel that I resonated most with was Chapter 19; ‘L’omosessuale 6’, wherein Carlo has to visit the mother of his beloved Francesco who has died in battle. He has to break the news to her and his wife. I found this part of the novel particularly emotive due to the deep interest and concern built up over the characters over the chapters. De Bernieres uses the writing technique of writing in first person for some chapters, using the voices of each character. This helps the reader get a better idea of what they are thinking and gain a better understanding of each different personality. This is vital with a character like Carlo. He carries with him the secret of his sexuality as though it is a disease â€Å"I had to live among them secretly, like one who conceals leprosy† he reveals in his second of six specially dedicated chapters in the first half of the book. This insight into his personality develops over these chapters and he reveals his deep love for his best frien...

The Mosque Essays

The Mosque Essays The Mosque Essay The Mosque Essay The mosque is the Muslim place of worship, which in Arabic is refered to as the Masjid this means place of prostration because Muslims bow low to God when praying. Mosques can be set up anywhere you place a prayer mat and kneel down to prostrate yourself and pray to Allah. It does not necessarily need to be a building but it is necessary to go to a mosque during festival times as it helps the Muslim community to join together and become closer. Another distinctive feature of a mosque is the Islamic symbol of the moon and star. This represents how the light of the moon and stars guide men through the desert, which links in with the idea that, the moon and stars guide Muslims through life. Male Muslims will prayer five times a day in the mosque, female Muslims do not need to attend the mosque to prayer as much as it is seen as their duty to hold and keep the house together so they often pray at home. The Friday prayer in the mosque, called the jumah is the most important. ALL MALE Muslims in the area will try and join together for that prayer. It shows Muslims uniting themselves throughout the world. Most mosques have one or more slender towers called minarets. In Arab villages, a man would stand on the balcony at the top facing Mecca and call to the other Muslims to prayer. He is called a Muezzin but nowadays in Arab villages, a recording or a loudspeaker will be used instead. Most mosques have a dome on the outside which is important in hotter countries because it allows the air to flow around the building more easily. But its main purpose in this country is to make the voice louder when someone is speaking and it also becomes a distinctive feature of the mosque. To Muslims the shape of the dome represents God and the eternity of life. It also shows the significance of Allah compared to the size of us as it represents Allah creator of the universe looking down on us. In the mosque that we visited there was no dome or minaret because it was a converted hotel this also means that the call to prayer (adhan) was made within the mosque and was loud enough to be heard no matter where you were in the mosque. Every Mosque must have somewhere for Muslims to wash themselves before going to pray. Big mosques perhaps in other countries may have a large open-air pool or water fountain. But in this country and in the smaller mosques there tends to be small bathroom facilities and sometimes there is a cloakroom. Muslims must always have somewhere to put their shoes because they have to take them off before entering the mosque to stop dirt and dust entering the holy building. On our visit to Bournemouth mosque we noticed that there was a small room to put your shoes and coat pegs to put any belongings on before entering the mosque. In the mosque there were two separate wudu areas, one for the woman and one for the men. Each Muslim must perform the ritual washings before praying so that they are clean when they are praying to Allah. The significance of them being clean on the outside symbolises them being clean on the inside as they have the right intent or niyyah to pray to Allah Below are some of the ritual washings all Muslims must perform: Inside the mosque it is very bare, there are no seats (except for medical reasons when the person will sit on a small stool and perform the prayer movements mentally rather than physically) and people either pray on their own mats or on the carpet provided. It does not necessarily matter if all the prayer movements are perfect because it is the intention (niyyah) to prayer that counts. Muslims will devote their time and focus completely on Allah, which is the intention of prayer. Muslims have nothing to distract them from their prayer but at Bournemouth Mosque there were two Medallions which helped Muslims to focus on their prayer. The medallions remind them that there is no God but Allah and that Muhammad is the Prophet of Allah . As well as ritual communal prayer Muslims also perform a personal prayer which is called the dua and can be recited before or after the ritual communal prayer. Muhammad had stopped people praying to idols because he was afraid that people may go back to worship them. This is called idolatry or Shirk in Islam and is the greatest sin to all Muslims as they believe that Allah can forgive all sins except shirk. This is why there are no paintings or statues in the mosque. Muslims are not allowed to draw animals or people because they believe that only God can create them. Mosque walls may be decorated with patterns some are mosacis others are words written in calligraphy, which are usually passages taken from the Quran. This applied to Bournemouth Mosque, as there was an embroided calligraphy pattern that was made from real gold thread(probably to represent the significance and value of the writing) and was taken from the doorway of the Kabah. This specific piece of tapestry is called Kiswah and is very sacred to Muslims it also contained the first few passages from the Quran and it contained some of the 99 names of Allah. It is also situated in the holy city of Mecca where no non-Muslims are allowed especially in Ramadan. As well as this there were many pictures of the holy mosque in Median which is Known as the Prophets Mosque and has a great value to Muslims as it was where the seal of the prophets Muhammad (pbuh) was born, lived and died (in Medina). In some Mosques there are geometric paintings or designs on the walls they are significant to Muslims as the patterns within them have significant meanings. The patterns are based on a circle which represents the eternity of Allah because the patterns nd circles will go on forever and ever. The prayer hall is the most important part of the mosque and there is not usually much to see apart from a lot of space that is essential for large numbers of Muslims to come and perform their prayers with all the movements. The prayer hall can also be used for many other different purposes like funeral services and a coumintey centre but it is never used for weddings even at the rear occasions when the wedding takes place in the mosque. When Muslims lay down their mats to prayer they lay them down so that they point towards Kaba in Mecca. Each of the prayer movement has a significant meaning and all are a very important part of the routine. Below are the sequence of the movements and the meaning which Muslims must perform when the pray. The direction in which they face is called the qiblah and they always know where to face as there is an alcove on the wall which is called the Mihrab. The Mirhab doesnt just point to Mecca but it also helps to make the imams voice who leads the prayer louder. He will usually face it with his back towards the rest of the Muslims who are worshipping Allah Also in the mosque there is the mimbar which is a set of three stairs to raise the person who is preaching at that point which is usually the imam. The mimbar is only used when the imam is preaching at the jumah. In addition to the main features of the mosque there is also a charity box in which Muslims can donate any amount of money to the mosque. They do not have to donate money all the time but at least once a year, as giving 2. 5% of your annual wage to charity is one of the 5 pillars of Islam that all Muslims must try to complete. The Islamic word for the charity box is Zakah and it means exactly what it says. Overall the prayer hall is probably the most important part of the mosque. In addition to this there is the community room which is used for socialising and getting to know each other and a classroom to educate the young Muslims so that they can teach them the right what to follow there religion etc. In the community room there is also a copy of the Quran which is the direct word of Allah and the hadith which contains the teachings and examples of Muhammad these are the two Islamic holy books. many mosques these books will be kept on the highest shelf but it is not essential. However it is essential to wash yourself before picking up the book and it must be treated with a lot of respect so nothing should ever be placed on top of it. The Mosque is usually set out something like the following: On the right there is the mimbar it has three steps and the Iman will stand on the second. The main reason for thi s is that it is a tradition which Muslims like to follow In this picture there are two microphones at different heights, one for standing prayer positions and one for the e very low prayer positions which in Islam are called Salah. Finally in the Mosque there is a prayer clock to indicate what times the prayers are done as it they change throughout the year according to the sightings of the moon and the times of dawn and dusk. Most mosques will have a board but in Bournemouth mosque they had brought a digital clock in order to make it easier and more understandable when reading and changing the times.

Pros and Cons of Globalization Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Pros and Cons of Globalization - Essay Example Globalization has significantly affected the business environment such that the level of interconnectedness or interdependence between different markets has sharply risen. They also believe that the effect globalization has gone beyond the business aspect, since the dramatic increase in international trade and finance has helped establish more profound cultural exchanges that in turn increased the impact of global issues at the local scale (Waters 2001). Historically, globalization resulted in the faster rate of increase in international trade and flow of capital including foreign direct investment in a country. Furthermore, there is the notable increase in the market share attributed to corporations that have established global presence ("Computer Desktop Encyclopedia" 2005). As globalization progressed, experts also observed that living conditions, as gauged by broader indicators of well-being, have been enhanced in most countries ("Globalization: Threat or Opportunity" 2000).

Integrated Marketing Communications Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3750 words

Integrated Marketing Communications - Essay Example which carry leading brands in other product segments such as hair care and ladies skin care ranges. The product is currently having a 4% market share in the men's face lotion category and included in the top 10 brands in the market. Marketing Communication Process includes five elements. They are: sender, message, receiver, medium, and feedback.In developing marketing communications, the target audience needs to be identified, and a well-coordinated program should be shaped to derive a desired audience response. To have an effective Marketing Communication, Nolan Company should target the right audience. Once the target audience is selected suitable tools of marketing communication should be chosen from advertising, sales promotions, direct marketing, public relations and personal selling. SWOT that is strengths, weaknesses, opportunities; threats are the influencers of marketing communication process of the Black knight lotion. At most times, the communication process is based on sh ort-term objectives such as overcoming immediate awareness problems, image or preference problems in the target market. The achievement of the set MC 1 objectives can be realized through a well-planned MC program utilizing a mix of MC tools and execution of the programs with correct timing and frequency. Before starting the report on Marketing Communication, we should know what that is. ... 7 3.5 Feedback 8 4. Barriers of Effective Communication 8 5. Target Audience 9 6. Findings after Selecting Target Audience 9 6.1 Geographical Audience 10 6.2 Demographics Audience 10 6.3 Psycho graphic Audience 10 6.4 Behavioral Patterns 10 6.5 Viewer ship and Listener ship Patterns 11 7. Brand Analysis (SWOT) 11 7.1 Strengths 12 7.2 Weaknesses 13 7.3 Opportunities 13 7.4 Threats 13-14 8. Marketing Communication Objectives 14 8.1 Short-term 14 8.2 Long-Term 14 9. Conclusion 15 10. Bibliography Introduction Before starting the report on Marketing Communication, we should know what that is. Marketing is an organizational function and a set of processes for creating, communicating, and delivering values to the customers or clients and for managing customer relationships in ways that benefit the organization and its stakeholders.2 Communication is a transactional process between two or more parties whereby meaning is exchanged through the intentional use of symbols.3 So marketing Communication is an ever-changed field where new theories, new techniques, cultural changes and technological advances all combined to create a dynamic environment within which marketers try to ensure that, their messages get through to their target audiences. For Marketing Communications to be effective they should be aligned with the overall business and marketing strategies of the product and this is referred to as an integrated Marketing Communication approach. In today's intensely competitive markets, consume rs are becoming more and more sophisticated in terms of their needs as well as their purchasing process. Therefore, need