Saturday, August 31, 2019
Mineral Water Industry Proposal Environmental Sciences Essay
Water is considered as the most indispensable human demands. But due to the pollution, the H2O is contaminated earnestly and it is non safe to be consumed. Because of the environment ordinance and go oning depletion of the fresh H2O resources, focal point has been shifted towards the H2O direction in order to recycle, retrieve and recycle the waste H2O by utilizing the taking engineerings. If the intervention of the H2O does n't convey into serious history, we might be possible to be infected by diseases like diarrhoea, malnutrition, enteric roundworm infections, lymphatic filariasis and other H2O ââ¬â borne diseases ( Pr & A ; uuml ; ss- & A ; Uuml ; st & A ; uuml ; n et al. , 2008 ) . One of the ways to pull off the H2O beginnings is that by utilizing it to fabricate and treat into bottled mineral H2O.The Importance of the industry to our societyThe bottled mineral is of import because it is really convenient. Tricia ( 2011 ) has claimed that by people would readily to hold sup ply of imbibing H2O to slake their thirst when H2O is non easy accessible. Bottled H2O is besides a healthier option in order to maintain us hydrated because the H2O is usually filtered and tested to guarantee that there is non harmful in it. Besides that, the mineral H2O is really light and eases for presenting procedure. Therefore, it can cut down the disbursals in transit. In add-on, the bottled H2O will be free from the stinky olfactory properties and chemical that can impact the gustatory sensation of the imbibing H2O and do it more gratifying to imbibe.The supply and demand of H2OIt is a affair of satisfaction that consciousness sing purified and hygienic H2O among multitudes is turning with the transition of clip and therefore doing the mineral H2O concern swell up to 15 per cent as compared to yester twelvemonth, forcing the quantum of demand up to around 1.1 billion litres per twelvemonth since contaminated H2O persistently coming out of governmental-run H2O grapevines. The refore, the planetary bottled H2O industry has become really profitable has grown exponentially over the past 10 to fifteen old ages. The most common supply for the mineral H2O is natural H2O which is derived from an approved belowground beginning, such as a protected good or spring that has been inspected, tested, and found to be safe and healthful with regard to H2O quality. Indeed, the mineral H2O consists of 75 % from natural resources and 25 % from the municipal H2O system. In United States, about 700 trade names of bottled H2O are sold. This broad choice reflects diverse consumer demand for safe and good-tasting imbibing H2O options. Furthermore, the immense multination presently make one million millions of dollars on H2O as they extract from the land, slap a label on and sell at competitory monetary values. For case: Aquafina ( Pepsi ) , Dasani ( Coke ) , Perrier ( Nestle ) , Evian, and Fiji Water among 100s of others. First and first, the factor impacting the addition of mineral H2O ingestion is the universe ââ¬Ës population will go on to turn in future decennaries. Other than that, it will be the in-migration of the people from the countryside to town. General life criterions are bettering, particularly in the two states with the largest populations: China and India. The universe ââ¬Ës current population of about 6.6 billion people will go on to swell over the coming decennaries. The UN predicts a planetary population of 9.2 billion people by the twelvemonth 2050. Demand for H2O will of class escalate strictly in response to this population growing. Experiences in recent decennaries even show that H2O ingestion has grown at a faster rate than the general population. This tendency is chiefly attributable to uninterrupted betterments in life criterions. In1950, for illustration, per capita one-year H2O ingestion averaged 580 M3. This figure had already risen to 625 M3s by the twelvemonth 2000 . Given the population roar in parts such as Asia particularly, this underlying tendency is improbable to be reversed for some clip. However, consumer demand for reviewing alternate drinks, every bit good as increasing public concern about wellness and fittingness and greater consumer instruction about the ingredients in nutrient and drinks, are advancing gross revenues of bottled H2O. Hence, the bottled H2O industry is indicated by the federal and ordinance which is to do certain that the quality of mineral H2O whether is safety to be drunk by public and by IBWA, the trade association stand foring the industry. A broad assortment of bottled Waterss are available to the consumer, and the bulk of these merchandises are acceptable options to imbibing H2O. The bottled H2O got the blessing for administering many authorities plans as the administering the smaller size of bottle is easier than administering the big bulk storage of H2O. The event is organized by the populace or schools besides admire to scatter the bottled H2O which is mineral H2O to people or pupil. Therefore, this will increase the demand of the bottle d mineral H2O as the big distribution to the consumer. Last but no rental, the demand of mineral H2O, supplied in plastic bottles, has been witnessed upward tendency in recent old ages as earlier urban in-between category of the society wanted to avoid water-borne diseases. But now the usage of bottle H2O has become position symbol in society and most of people particularly female normally carry fictile mineral H2O bottles with them while traveling to shopping or someplace else. The tendency of transporting mineral bottles is non merely healthy mark but besides it keeps end-consumers off from physicians. In the nutshell, the populations of planetary universe addition, the addition will the demand of clear H2O like bottled mineral H2O. Water is the most common substance found on Earth that covers over 70 per cent of whole planet and is the lone substance found of course in three signifiers: solid, liquid and gas. However, about 97 per cent of the Earth ââ¬Ës H2O is saltwater in oceans and seas. Merely three per cent is freshwater while merely one per cent is available for imbibing ââ¬â the staying two per cent is frozen in polar ice caps in the form of glaciers. Hence, the supply and demand for the bottled mineral H2O industry is about sufficient and really perchance will derive a monolithic net income to the company of it is managed good.Procedure of fabricating mineral H2OSprings that are disposed above an aquifer secluded from contaminations like industries runoff or healthful drainage are where mineral H2O comes from. Thus the procedure of doing mineral H2O is vitally of im port. Spring H2O must be collected merely at the spring or through a au naturel hole tapping the belowground formation feeding the spring. After that the H2O will pump through pretreatment systems which include different type of filter which are Chlorination System, Raw Water Pump, Pressure Sand Filter ( PSF ) , Activated Carbon Filter, UV system with piping, valves and instruments. The system utilizes an ion exchange H2O softener and a assortment of filtration methods. The gilded systems incorporate activated C filters to take bad gustatory sensations and olfactory properties from the H2O. Natural H2O may incorporate populating micro-organisms and organics which are obnoxious to Change by reversal Osmosis ( R.O. ) Membrane. Not merely like that, H2O besides contain ferric which can be oxidized to ferric oxide which is settle down in storage armored combat vehicle. Therefore Chlorine Dosing System is designed for this intent. Sodium hypochlorite solution is dosed in Raw Water Storage Tank to respond with H2O to organize a hypochlorite acid which acts as disinfecting agent. The chlorinated natural H2O will so travel to Pressure Sand Filter via Raw Water Supply Pump. The natural H2O is foremost filtered by filtration unit to take suspended affairs and turbidness from natural H2O. Before feeding to the contrary osmosis system ( R.O. Plant ) , free Cl must be removed from the filtrated H2O. This is because chlorine being a strong oxidizing agent which will damage the R.O. Membranes in R.O. Plant. Thus Activated Carbon Filter is map to take Cl, olfactory property and colour while go throughing the H2O through C bed. ( Diagram 1 shows a system for chlorination, acts as Raw Water Pump, Pressure Sand Filter and Activated Carbon Filter. ) Diagram 1 After that spring H2O will pretreatment with rearward osmosis system ( R.O. Plant ) to cut down the sum dissolved solids from natural H2O beginning. The R.O. Plant use membrane-filtration methods to take many types of big molecules and ions from solutions by using force per unit area to the solution. The solute will stay on the pressurized side of the membrane and the pure dissolver is allowed to go through through the other side. ( Diagram 2 shows a R.O. Plant. ) Diagram 2 After passed through R.O. Plant system, the filtrated H2O will has really less TDS ( Total Dissolved Solids ) value which is non good in gustatory sensation. Thus a mineral adding system or blending system will used to heighten the gustatory sensations of the H2O. The scaremonger will blend the physical mineral into the commixture armored combat vehicle and dosing pump will dose the mineral to R.O. Product H2O before ozonation with TDS accountant. The blending system will set the TDS value by adding filtered H2O. ( Diagram 3 shows a Mineral adding system. ) Diagram 3 The mineral added H2O is so stored in Product Water Storage Tank. During storage, atmospheric or any other taint may take topographic point in treated H2O. Hence H2O will feed through the Micron Cartridge Filter. Micron Cartridge Filter will take attention for all right micrometer drosss. It will guarantee the high quality treated H2O before ozonation by taking peculiar affair and some portion of bacteriums and virus. After that the H2O will cysts down to 1 micrometer absolute. ( Diagram 4 shows a Micron Cartridge Filter. ) Diagram 4 After micrometer cartridge filter, H2O comes to the station intervention system which include Ultra Violet system ( U.V. System ) and ozonation. U.V. System will take the bacteriums and viruses one time once more as they may redevelop once more in H2O during drawn-out storage. Hence, the treated H2O is passed through U.V. System which consists of U.V. Tubes which radiates high strength Ultra Violet Rays to kill micro-organisms. Even passed through U.V. System, the bacteriums and viruses may redevelop in jammed bottles over a period of clip. Hence it ââ¬Ës necessary to disinfect merchandise H2O prior to bottling filling. The Ozone Generator will turned H2O into O rich H2O and take the bacteriological growing and supply the shelf life of the jammed bottles unless it ââ¬Ës unfastened for some period of clip. The ozonation of H2O besides added some gustatory sensation to the treated H2O. Ozonator will bring forth the ozone gas from free ambiance, dry air or force per unit area swing surface assimilation ( PSA ) O generator. Ozone gas will shoot with venturi system mounted on armored combat vehicle with re-circulation armored combat vehicle and pump. ( Diagram 5 shows a U.V. and Ozonation system. ) Diagram 5 Ozone Re-circulating Tank ( ORT ) is designed for required ppm ( parts per million ) Ozone gas mix up in finished merchandise, H2O. In ozone re-circulating armored combat vehicle, H2O re-circulating by required flow rate pump. Continuous re-circulation will supply the ozone concentration to the merchandise H2O before bottling. Overall system:Impact of fabricating mineral H2O on homo and environmentFirst, phthalates are chemicals known to interrupt the endocrines in our human organic structure particularly testosterone, which can take to an unnatural sexual development such as male sterility, premature chest development, malignant neoplastic disease and abortions. Meanwhile, this sort of chemical comes from the fictile H2O bottles by leaching into bottled H2O. Other than that, a random experiment was done during the twelvemonth of 1990 with a trade name of popular bottled H2O and turned up hints of benzine in the bottles where low dose of benzine to human is unaffected but high dose will convey paroxysms and decease. Bottled H2O is besides much more expensive than tap H2O but bottled H2O is frequently no healthier than tap H2O because from the consequences of some surveies had shown that about 25-45 per centum of bottled H2O sold in the United States really comes from municipal resources. Even U.S. FDA ordi nances allowed some taint of faecal stuff in bottled H2O and to boot there are no demands for H2O bottles to be tested for parasites or germicides. Worse is that bottled H2O company are non required to advise their clients if elevated degrees of contaminations are found. The production of H2O bottles is besides making C dioxide non small but is 2.5 million dozenss of it and released to the air and it is the chief key to greenhouse consequence gas that is responsible for planetary heating. Apart from that, we had used excessively many H2O bottles each twelvemonth, it was over-numbered, in U.S. each twelvemonth the sum of H2O bottles can encircle the Earth 150 times if they are set end-to-end but non even 25 per centum is recycled. Due to they are fictile bottles, therefore they decompose easy as the same for other plastics, while we all finished the H2O and the plastic bottles are thrown off, around 2.5 million of fictile H2O bottles an hr and each takes 500 million old ages to break up. Imagine the pollution that was caused by H2O bottles. In order to forestall all of these from go oning, the company should be more toward duty than profitableness and ne'er step out from the safety parametric quantities even though it is non officially secured by the quality applied scientists.
Friday, August 30, 2019
Be Your Best Self
Being your best self can mean a lot of things to different people, but what does it mean to me? To me it means being your own Superman. It means to be everything you can possibly be; to be confident in yourself, in not only looks but knowing you can do anything. It means to help everyone; to be kind, caring, and sweet. Being your best self means to be happy and live your life. Confidence means having faith in yourself in many ways.It means to know you are beautiful in every way. Having confidence means knowing you can do anything and everything you set your mind to. To be your best self means to help everyone. You need to be kind, sweet, and compassionate. Help them in school subject areas or running errands. Help them when they need it, whether its getting them help or helping them yourself.. Plain and simple be a good friend. God has given you one life to live before you go up to Heaven with him, and you need to live it up.No Iââ¬â¢m not saying go crazy and get twenty tattoos th at cover your body, unless thatââ¬â¢s what you want, but be happy. Life is too short to go through it being upset and depressed. So go find love in your best friend, keep faith in the Lord, and go get a little too crazy with your friends. Just make sure you are happy with everything you do. Superman lives in a town in Kansas, were later on in life he finds love in Lois Lane. If Superman was not his best self, his whole town would submit to complete destruction.His love would not be with him anymore, for he helps her and saves her life all the time. Superman is the best role model for being your best self. The Distinguished Young Women Association, or Jr. Miss, helps young women be their best self. Maybe not all of the characteristics, but from experience it does make you happier and a more confident individual. I know this because while participating in this program, I have been happier and I have never been more confident in myself.
Thursday, August 29, 2019
Drug Abuse- a Menace to the Society
Drug Abuse is a serious issue affecting all sections of the society, Irrespective whether they are Young/Old, Poor/Rich, and Educated/Illiterate. To really understand the gravity of the situation one needs to understand a few very important points;- what actually is Drug-Abuse? As I understand a very simple definition of Drug abuse is that it means use of drugs for the purpose for which it is not meant to be used (in other words use of drugs not for treating ailments but to satisfy vicarious pleasure ). The destructive thing about this is that when people experience the hallucination under the influence of these drugs, they would like to this again & again causing a serious Drug Addiction. Now letââ¬â¢s try to understand the various Drugs frequently abused. The Most Common that is used by more than 80% of the people is Marijuana also called Ganja or Grass or weed in colloquial language. The most dangerous aspect to be noted is that in spite of being labeled a Banned Drug, Marijuana is available very easily to all & sundry. The reason for it to be a favorite among the Drug addicts is that it is not very expensive & it gives an instant kick and can be had instantly without even letting a non smoker know about it. We see thousands of people smoking cigarettes everyday & their may be many of them smoking Ganja & still we wonââ¬â¢t know about it. Even though this is not an appropriate time to say I cannot prevent myself from saying that the If the Law enforcing authorities are strict, this menace can be controlled to a very large extent. Why would people get addicted to this? Other than the reasons of being easily available etc, as mentioned above Chemically a substance called as THC ( Tetra Hydroxy Cannibinol) a ketone present in this Drug makes the body become dependent on it. The relaxation it brings to the smoker along with the euphoria it creates makes the smoker misconceive that this actually is not destructive & some regulars believe that smoking grass helps in harnessing their creativity. Once again this is a misconception which needs urgent rattention. . Now let us see How it becomes a menace to the person abusing it so that we can understand how it affects the society. As the time goes by & the addiction takes root, it causes various personality disorders, serious psychological behavioral problems & loss of priority resulting in Poor judgments, Slowed reflexes, Distorted vision, Memory lapse, Anxiety, Confusion, Constant physical fights, tiredness, Black outs, Lowered inhibitions & problems in remembering recently said or did. They even start believing that Drugs is necessary to have fun & to even to exist. They constantly feel run-down or depressed leading to suicidal tendencies. They constantly complain of Dry mouth, Nausea, Head ache, decreased co-ordination, Increased Heart rates, Reduced Muscle strength, increased appetite & craving. Drugs & Alcohol together are contributing factors in at least half of all murders, Suicides, & Car accidents in an inebriated condition. Drug dependency pushes people to loose their self esteem & make them promiscuous. Approximately there are 1 lakh deaths occurring per year because of Drugs. The Illegal drug Mafia has a firm grip on the Market & is a very big source of funding Terrorism. Of course Marijuana is not the only drug & there are more serious Drugs like Cocaine, Heroin, LSD, and Phencyclidine which are more dangerous but luckily they are not very common as these are expensive, difficult to procure & more harmful. These drugs are snorted, smoked or injected. When these drugs are taken thru injections, it increases the chances of transmitting AIDS & HIV by sharing of needles. The Good News is that more than 98% of the teens have never tried these harder drugs like cocaine. Let me see if we can do anything about this, first of all on a personal level if we find our friends or other young people indulging in it, we have to report to the family immediately. On the family level care should be taken in handling these people & we should give them all the love & support to overcome the addictions with the help of De-addiction clinics. On a bigger scale the society of which we are a part of should take stringent steps to see there are no peddlers or users among them & finally the state should introspect & see why it cannot be rooted out if there is a will & conviction among them. My friends, Recently we saw the Grammy award winner Amy whinehouse dying at the age of 27 because of Alcohol & Drugs. Itââ¬â¢s a pity that such a great talent has to loose out to Drugs. I can go on & on about the menace the Drug Abuse causes to the Individual first & then the society, but I feel the more we dwell upon it, the more we would be energizing it, so lets all say NO TO DRUGS & Promise to ourselves & to the society that we would weed out this menace in our generation completely.
Wednesday, August 28, 2019
Martin luther king jr Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words
Martin luther king jr - Research Paper Example This is also the case with his experiences in different regions of the African world, and of his successes and efforts in support of African emancipation.2 These experiences and efforts influenced Kingââ¬â¢s ideas of racial circumstances in the United States in reflective and philosophical ways, and they reveal a connection between King and the pervasive attention given to Africa and matters related to being African among blacks since the latter part of the 1960s. The thoughts and influence of King on Africans and the issue of African Diaspora is the focus of this research paper. A great deal of emphasis is given on Kingââ¬â¢s appreciation of ties and responsibilities between individuals of African lineage far and wide, and on his influences on the fight for African emancipation and self-determination. The pro-independence components in Kingââ¬â¢s ideas were conclusively shown in those areas of his oral and written works wherein he concentrated on particular issues confronte d by individuals of African lineage all over the globe.3 His emphasis on the situation of his fellow Africans in the U.S. has been widely studied and well documented. King articulated a profound concern for Africaââ¬â¢s fight against colonialism and racial discrimination. He proclaimed in 1956, ââ¬Å"We could turn our eyes to Africa and notice there two hundred million black men and women under the pressing yoke of the British, the Dutch and the French. For years all of these people were dominated politically, exploited economically, segregated and humiliatedâ⬠.4 King proclaimed a year afterward that ââ¬Å"you also know that for years and for centuries Africa has been one of the most exploited continents in the history of the worldâ⬠--- ââ¬Å"the continent that has suffered all of the pain and affliction that could be mustered up by other nationsâ⬠.5 King believes that the mistreatment and coercion imposed on Africa over the years were most apparent in the slave trade, which plundered West Africaââ¬â¢s Gold Coast. He also emphasized that the misuse and abuse of Africa by the white civilizations persisted until the 20th century, inhibiting not just the progress and expansion of West Africa, but the Union of South Africa and other areas of eastern, southern, and northern Africa.6 Kingââ¬â¢s perception of the African situation in general pushed him to believe in 1959 that ââ¬Å"It is impossible for Angola to stand in Africa and not be affected by what is happening in Nigeria and Kenya and Rhodesia.â⬠7 The interest of King in Africa was widely expressed in a variety of ways. In 1957, he positively responded to a private request from Prime Minister Kwane Nkrumah of Ghana to see the liberation of the Gold Coast. Kingââ¬â¢s wife, who accompanied him in the trip, portrayed the invitation of Nkrumah as ââ¬Å"one of the most exciting things that happened to us,â⬠8 and stressed that the prime minister ââ¬Å"knew America well and had invited a number of outstanding American Negroes to share Ghanaââ¬â¢s great day.â⬠9 King also talked about the significance of the invitation of Nkrumah, arguing that it was an encouraging assertion of the Montgomery struggle and of the bonds that were forged between the Gold Coast and African Americans. The visit to Ghana, which is described in numerous documents as the ââ¬Å"Kingââ¬â¢s first sojourn on the continent of his fathersââ¬
Tuesday, August 27, 2019
Personal Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1
Personal Analysis - Essay Example In taking such undertakings, such an individual totally gains the approval as well as the confidence of his subjects. In this regard, the author elucidates that a promoter is someone who can very easily persuade people in many ways (Keirsey, 298). In such situations, people often come to terms easily with whatever proposals made, or whatever contributions made by the said individual. Relevant to persuasion, a promoter depicts several other qualities involving trustworthiness, positiveness, confidence, faithfulness as well as surety. In addition to persuasion, it is important to note that promoters are always outgoing, wise and very attentive, as well as respects the rule of law. People always find promoters very dependable. Promoters always take their time with people. They are always very sociable and easy to mingle with as well as easy to understand. All these qualities describe that of promoters. I always take great interest in people, perhaps the reason other people find me warm, sociable and interesting. While I take time alone sometimes, I spend much more of my time being with people, talking to them and trying to bring out the best in them. It hardly goes without my notice when a friend or close acquaintance is in a bad or good mood. In addition, I always take no pride seeing my people suffer. In such a case, I always offer my assistance as much as possible. Other than being with people, I am also quite dependable. In this regard, I take my work seriously and often focus on the details maintaining warmth and energy. Perhaps it is for this reason that in many occasions I find myself being chosen as a team leader. I have what it takes to ensure that things get done the right way. I also generally like to be in control and will give my opinion without fearing, no wonder some people consider me manipulative. As an aspiring person, I always concentrate on developing several skills to meet the demands of people within the
Financial ratios Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words
Financial ratios - Essay Example There are different ways in which financial ratios can be improved by the firm and hence its performance. However, it is critical to note that financial ratios can also be improved with the help of creative accounting techniques such as use of different depreciation methods, inventory value methods etc. Financial ratios are typically chracterised into five groups and each group consists of different ratios that outline the performance of the firm in that category. For example, liquidity ratios comprises of current ratio as well as acid test ratio. In order to improve upon the liquidity ratios of a firm, a firm can discipline its use of working capital. Since liquidity ratios mostly indicate the firmââ¬â¢s ability to pay off its short term liabilities with its short term assets therefore it is really important that both the current assets as well as current liabilities are managed in optimum manner. In order to improve this ratio, a firm can decrease its reliance on the short term finance and shall encourage the use of internally generated funds to finance its short term working capital requirement. Since current assets are considered as non-productive assets it is therefore important that a balance must be achieved between the current assets and current liabilities to bring the ratios in most favorable condition. Similarly, efficiency ratios indicate the efficiency with which the assets of the firm are managed by the managers. To improve the efficiency ratios, a firm can further tighten its credit extension policy to improve its receivable turnover. This can also be achieved by making the sales activity more robust so that inventories are rotated more frequently rather than piling them up after their production. A higher inventories turnover therefore indicates the ability of the firm to convert its inventories into cash or receivables through sales generation. Profitability ratios can be
Monday, August 26, 2019
The Syndrome Of Colorectal Cancer Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 1
The Syndrome Of Colorectal Cancer - Essay Example After getting the report of the medical test, John and his wife Carol learned that he was suffering from colorectal cancer. John was appalled at the diagnosis as he was completely unprepared for such a result. A doctor suggested him a surgeon who particularly dealt with such kind of diseases and offered hope towards fighting and surviving this grave disease. The surgeon explained the procedure of treatment and therapy that John needed to undergo before and after the surgery. After performing a surgery, the physician discussed the means in relation to the disease from which John was suffering. The physician broke the news to John that he was gravely affected with the high level of cancer in his abdominal. John undertook several tests to determine the accuracy of the statement made by the physician and found it to be true (Australian Government Cancer Australia, 2012). The joint report published by the ââ¬ËAustralian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW)ââ¬â¢ and the ââ¬ËAustralasian Association of Cancer Registries (AACR)ââ¬â¢ focuses on delivering a thorough update regarding the changes in cancer endurance in Australia since 2001, when the first national cancer report was published. It delivers a trend statistics regarding the survival of persons affected by invasive cancer from 1982-1986 to 1998-2004, as well as analyzes the survival outcome in terms of age, geographic provinces, sex, and socioeconomic status. During the period of 1982-2004, the statistical reports concerning the frequency of invasive cancer in Australia provided an account of 1.6 million cases. This was the period when cancer-related survivals were examined in terms of their gender, age and period of treatment, as well as survival period, geographic provinces and socioeconomic status. Moreover, this report also provided the prevalence calculation regarding all the se aspects (Alteri et. al., 2011). In Australia, during 2007, the risk of colorectal cancer was identified at the age of 85 which was 10 for men and 14 for women. This risk was noticeable and increased from the age of 45.
Sunday, August 25, 2019
Fashion Taste and Ethics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words
Fashion Taste and Ethics - Essay Example The essay "Fashion Taste and Ethics" discovers the taste in fashion. If the word can be taken within this context, ways in which the word culture is used seems to be fine. However, there arguably seem to be a different view concerning the term culture ought to be viewed. Perhaps this can enlist some reaction. With a view to help people appreciate the wholesome significance of a culture for the better understanding of humanity it is it certain that there is meaningless distinction between low cultures and high cultures. This thus implies that it is impossible for a certain group of people to be said to be more cultured or otherwise have more cultures than others. It goes without saying that the term culture from the anthropological point of view has a different distinctive meaning away from what it is known. This paper, therefore, investigates the word culture with a view to provide a fairly precise definition. In this paper, other terms that encompass the term culture shall be discus sed. The paper shall cover some pertinent elements of culture, as well as elaborate how essential culture is as far as human species is concerned. The paper shall sum up with explaining the modern anthropological view concerning how physical or biological differences and cultural differences between the human populations are closely related. The most widely celebrated technological developments are those pertaining to culture. These technologies are widely celebrated because they have broken physical barriers, transforming the world. into a village. The eventuality is that the current era is characterized by increased interaction of people across all cultures in the world. Therefore, it cannot be disputed that, as far as intercultural interactions are concerned, communications remains a pertinent subject. Indeed, communication barriers are not uncommon in communication, especially in communications involving low context and high context cultures. What may make the subject further cr itical is when nonverbal communication is involved. Eye-contact non-verbal communication is one of the critical areas of concern in high-context and low-context intercultural communication. Eye contact is not only an important form of verbal communication, buts also a human form for communication; animals are often disturbed by eye contact (Salas, 1992). A substantial focus has been directed to understanding intercultural eye-contact communication, in order to foster cultural competence and minimize cultural conflict. However, few studies have focused on assessing the implications of eye-contact on instruction adherence, especially in the multi-cultural learning environment. In the early phases of human revolutions, most human activities were limited to organized groups, that is, societies. As time went by, the interaction among these societies opened up, extending across regions, cultures, and languages. Undoubtedly, trends in business activities followed the same trend. Even intri guing is the fact that the world has evolved to the extent that globalizations has made human activities subject to cultural interactions. The world is now a global village, where people across diverse culture and all regions of the world interact more frequently than ever. To this extent, it cannot be overemphasized that human beings, as well as
Saturday, August 24, 2019
Confucianism - a Religion or a Philosophy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words
Confucianism - a Religion or a Philosophy - Essay Example From an analysis of the text and a cursory review of Confucianism, it must be understood by the reader that there are ultimately only three alternatives which could be gleaned: the understanding that Confucianism represents a philosophy but not a religious one, the understanding that Confucianism represents a religious worldview first and foremost within a philosophical interpretation being secondary, and the understanding that Confucianism represents both a religious and an philosophical interpretation. Likewise, it is the belief of this author that the most appropriate interpretation of this particular situation is the first determinant listed above; with the third determinant also being a distant possibility. Seeking to understand such a question may seem as something of an exercise in futility due to the fact that Confucianism is not a widely practiced religion; however, seeking to define what specifically is and what specifically is not a religion is an important aspect of delin eating and defining the current world in which we live. The reason for choosing this first determinant as the most likely case in question is due to the fact that Confucian beliefs do not specify a belief or appreciation for any subset of gods that must be followed or appreciated in order for the individual to attain a degree of benefit, worship or salvation. Whereas other religions make specific claims with regards to what deities must be worshipped and extolled in order for a degree of personal benefit to be generated, Confucianism makes no such claims. Moreover, building upon this is the fact that Confucianism is syncretic; i.e. it builds upon other belief systems and faiths. This is something that few other belief systems can claim and not a single world religion is capable of boasting. This fact, perhaps beyond any of the others which will be discussed, helps to set Confucianism apart and differentiate this as an philosophyal interpretation of the world rather than a strictly r eligious one. Naturally, although the foregoing definition is sound, the fact remains that Confucianism retains key elements of religious dogma with regards to the means by which individuals should integrate with one another and the world around them. Due to the fact that the writings and belief system of Confucianism are concerned primarily with philosophyal and moral interpretations, it is easy to understand why many of the individuals that have researched this particular world view have come to the understanding that philosophyal world view and interpretations of right conduct is a handle that more appropriately defines Confucianism as compared to the blanket and somewhat incorrect handle of religion (Smith 186). Yet, regardless of the interpretation of Confucianism that is made, the fact remains that it retains many of the aspects of a religion so it is also understandable why so many individuals have referred to it as a religion; replete with a holy set of writings/proverbs, a prophet, and a base line of standards and beliefs that are passed down from one generation to the next; from one believer to the next. As such, it is the view of this author that Confucianism is in fact a verifiable ââ¬Å"religionâ⬠as it exhorts a set of followers to act and behave in a certain way as a result of constraining and/or defining their lives based upon a certain set of teachings and principles. In such a manner, the definition of religion might not perfectly meld with the fact that Confucianism does not have a ââ¬Å"godâ⬠or a particular clergy or any other such hallmarks of other well known religions, it meets
Friday, August 23, 2019
Role Play (Marketing Behavior Class) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words
Role Play (Marketing Behavior Class) - Essay Example The ideal is to remain with the same company until retirement around age sixtyâ⬠(Countries: Employment, 2011, par. 1). The leather shoes for men will be durable yet affordable shoes for working and professional men; however it will have the comfort of a sneaker. I plan to conduct a venture between the athletic shoe manufacturer Nike and the designer shoe company Salvatore Feragammo. Feragammo will be the primary manufacturer; however Nike will contribute when developing the shoe and will be used for various purposes. Some of the material used will be the same that Nike uses in the production of their athletic shoes. The retail price will be about $400 (U.S.) obviously, the target market will be a men, aged 24-49 years old with a high disposable income. I selected this as a product to market to the Japanese because the subculture of Asians is more likely to be affluent (Lindquist & Sirgy, 2003).
Thursday, August 22, 2019
Plato and Aristotle Essay Example for Free
Plato and Aristotle Essay Plato the great Greek classical philosopher lived between c. 427 and c. 347 BC. Plato together with his mentor, Socrates, and Aristotle (384-322 BC) are credited with helping lay the foundations of Western philosophy. Plato was a student of Socrates and the unjust death of Socrates by execution is thought to have profoundly affected influenced him. Plato would later write in his dialogues the teachings of Socrates. Besides philosophizing, Plato was also a mathematician who helped show the distinction between pure and applied mathematics. Plato also founded what is thought to be the first institution of higher learning in Western world, the Academy, in Athens. Plato was a sophisticated writer and this is evident in the dialogues. The dialogues have continued to be used to teach philosophy, logic, rhetoric and mathematics. Indeed Platoââ¬â¢s philosophy has influenced so many, but not necessarily likeminded individuals and they include Platoââ¬â¢s student and his greatest critic, Aristotle, Plotinus, Philo, St. Augustine, Avicenna, St. Bonaventure, Hegel, to name just but a few. The Christian Church was highly inspired and informed by Platonism. The Cambridge Platonists were so named because of the indelible mark Plato had left in their scholarly lives. Some other philosophers like Friedrich Nietzsche together with his followers would attack Plato teachings. The list is endless. Plato wielded so much influence and this drove Alfred North Whitehead to observe famously: ââ¬Å"All Western philosophy consists of footnotes of Plato. At the heart of Platonism is the theory of forms, which will you find with much surprise that Plato only deals with it almost in passing in his dialogues. Nevertheless the theory has come to be a tool that can help us understand Platoââ¬â¢s approach to ethics and metaphysics, aesthetics and epistemology. Plato developed the theory in his middle-period dialogues like Phaedo, Symposium, and Republic and then later criticized it himself in Parmenides (Brickhouse and Smith, 2008). The theory is an explanation of Platoââ¬â¢s belief that there exists an immaterial Universe of ââ¬Ëformsââ¬â¢, or perfect aspects of everyday things such as table, bird, ideas/emotions, joy, action, etc (uororegon. edu/plato. html, par. 3). This means that the objects and the ideas in our material world are mere shadows of the forms. To be able to understand the theory of forms better we first need to understand what forms as Plato viewed them. A form is a conceptual property or quality. If you can take an object and then separate that object and consider it by itself then it is form you are contemplating. If we could use the example of a basketball, separate its roundness from its color, its weight, and perhaps its texture and then think just of its roundness, this is the form of roundness. And as Plato put it the roundness exists apart from the basketball and in a different mode of existence than it. Form is not only the idea of roundness you have in the mind, form exists independently of the basketball and also independently of whether someone thinks of it. This applies to all round things, not just basketball. They participate or copy the form of roundness. Forms differ from material objects because of the properties they have. The first property of forms is that they are transcendent and unlike material things do not exist in time and space. A basketball exists at a particular place and at a particular time. The basketballââ¬â¢s roundness form does not exist in space and this would explain why they are unchanging. A form like roundness will never change and it does even exist in time. It remains the same at all times and at all places. You can instantiate a form in any different place or time and it will still be the same. Even if all objects that are round are destroyed the property of roundness would still exist. The other property of forms is that they are pure i. e. hey are properties separated from all other properties (Ryle, par. 7). To use the example of basketball still, we will notice that it is composed of many properties apart from the roundness and this include ballness, orangeness, elasticity, etc, and all are put together to make one basketball. Therefore there are many forms existing by themselves, apart from time and space. Roundness is just pure roundness and so is orangeness. Forms are different from material objects because they are transcendent and pure. Forms can also be understood as being archetypes. This is means that they are the perfect examples of the property they represent, they are the perfect demonstration upon which all material objects are based. Forms are also Ultimately Real entities. Every material object is a copy of a collection of forms. The other thing to note about forms is that they are Causes meaning they give explanations of why things are the way they are and they are also the source or origin of the being of things ( Banach, par 11). The last aspect of forms is that they are Systematically Interconnected. This is to say that forms encompass a system starting from the form of the Good moving from more general to more particular ââ¬â from more objective to more subjective The general structure Platoââ¬â¢s argument goes like this: we do believe that the more objective a concept is, the more real the thing it represents. This we do by using objectivity to distinguish appearance from reality. So the more objective you get, the more real you get. Platoââ¬â¢s second premise is that forms are more objective than material objects. This leads to the conclusion that forms are more real than objects. Plato says that the world we perceive with our senses often deceives us, a phenomenon that would not be present if the world and the objects we perceive with our senses were real. It appears that all the objects we perceive are simply images or experiences of our mind. They are subjective points of view for real things. The world we see is not the real world but its image and it is difficult to ascertain at what level of observation we get in touch with the real objects that make up the world. So we are forced to assume that the more objective the concept of description is the more real the object it describes. Through what is called dialectic process we combine many different points of view to achieve a more objective description that accommodates all the other common points of view. For Plato therefore real objects cannot be the subjective images we perceive. The everyday material objects like chairs, tables, trees, are different in that they take into account all of the subjective images we form of a single object. But we should not take this as the real object because: we can only get in contact with these objects through subjective image. They also contain many different properties that are combined. Lastly, these objects are always changing. As such the only level that things really exist is at the level of single properties removed from particular objects. What we perceive of the world are subjective perspectives and unless there are forms, it would appear that some aspect of relativism is true. Relativism holds that every thing in existence is subject to a subjective view of truth, beauty, truth and justice. Plato disputed relativism saying most of the times we objectively discuss and argue about concepts like beauty, truth and justice and as such this dialectic process helps us understand them better. So if there forms of beauty, truth and justice then it is possible to objectively criticize subjective points of view about these things. Plato writes that forms approximate forms. As such the form of beauty is perfect beauty and the form of justice is perfect justice. Conceiving of Forms in this way was important to Plato because it enabled the philosopher who grasps the entities to be best able to judge to what extent sensible instances of the Forms are good examples of the Forms they approximate (Philosophyprofessor. com, 2008) Theory of forms can aid an individual make judgments of good and bad, better or worse by participating or copying the attributes of the all the good practices around us. If we understand the concept of something we can also tell if the concept is one that we should aspire to. Teleology is the study of goals, ends, and purposes. Telos means ââ¬Å"endâ⬠or ââ¬Å"purposeâ⬠. A person holding a teleological world view believes that the end of things provides meaning for all that has happened or that will occur. If one holds that history has a timeline with a beginning and end, in a teleological view of the world, then the meaning and value of all historical events is derived from their ends or purposes. Aristotle, Platoââ¬â¢s student, is the leading proponent of the teleological view (Hooker, par. 1). In giving his four causes (aitia) for things, Aristotle lists the end/purpose for which the thing was made as the most important. Aristotle conducted a causal investigation of a specific department of reality which result in causal knowledge. Causal knowledge is the knowledge of appropriate causes. Aristotle emphasized the concept of cause and this explains why his theory causality is sometimes referred to as the doctrine of four causes. According to Aristotle, what cause is, and how many types causes there are, is what is key to a successful investigation of the world around (plato. tanford. edu/entries/aristotle-causality, 2008) Aristotle says that we can deduce that we have knowledge of a thing if only we have grasped its cause, or its why. Aristotle provides a general account of the four causes. It is a general account because it is applicable to everything requiring an explanation and even includes artistic productions and human actions. In Aristotle theory of causality, there are four types of causes that can be used to answer a why-question. These are: 1. The material cause, or ââ¬Å"that out of whichâ⬠, the bronze of a statue . The formal cause, or ââ¬Å"the formâ⬠, ââ¬Å"the account of what-it-is-to-beâ⬠, the shape of a statue 3. The efficient cause, or ââ¬Å"the primary source of the change or restâ⬠, the artist, the art of bronze-casting the statue. 4. The final cause, or ââ¬Å"the end, that for the sake of which a thing is doneâ⬠. (plato. stanford. edu/entries/aristotle-causality, 2008) The four causes can all explain something. The start of the making of the bronze statue until it is finished can be explained by all the four causes. The efficient cause in the production of the statue requires to be elaborated in that Aristotle thought the art of bronze-casting should be picked over the artist who has mastered the art as the appropriate specification for the efficient cause. Aristotle chooses to do this because he is trying to provide an explanation of statue production which does not make reference to the desires or beliefs or intentions of an artist. The four causes all offer a teleological explanation for the production of a bronze statue. The type of teleological explanation provided above does not depend on such psychological concepts as desires, beliefs and intentions. This is because Aristotle wanted a model that could also be used to investigate nature. Some people have tried to point out that Aristotle tries to explain nature using an inappropriate psychological model, a model that has a purposive agent that is sensitive to the end. But this assertion can be countered by saying that Aristotle does not ââ¬Å"psychologizeâ⬠nature because his inquiry is a teleological model free from the psychological factors. Aristotle does not always disqualify the beliefs and desires. In the case of the production of the bronze statue, one may be interested in a particular bronze statue because it could be the great achievement of an artisan who has mastered the art and applied it distinctively. In this case it is in order to include the beliefs and desires of the artist. Aristotle causal theory is not only used to explain nature but can to explain many other areas that make up the human existence. It certainly can help us make good judgments concerning the good and bad. This is true if we can think up the four causes before we do or say anything. The four causes can act as guide to all we do and say, we can also use the four causes to determine the usefulness of something. If every time we think of the purpose or the goal of something we can certainly be able to tell if it is a good idea or a bad one before we do it. As such we will be in a position to make sound judgments. When we compare Platoââ¬â¢s theory of forms and Aristotle theory of causality what possibly is the difference or the similarity of the judgment that one can make? Platoââ¬â¢s theory is based on concepts that we do not see but are in existence; as such we should aspire to these qualities. In instances where we need to make just judgments we should be guided by what we know as perfect justice. It would appear that Platoââ¬â¢s theory of forms would be problematic in dealing with many problems of the world since we are required to transcend it. Aristotleââ¬â¢s four causes on the other hand seems more suited to us. It is easy to grasp and it is easy to determine the causal reality. Platoââ¬â¢s theory of forms is good only in as far as it is being handled by person with better understanding of how it really works. This is then means it cannot be used by everybody except those schooled in philosophy. Aristotleââ¬â¢s teleological explanation of the world is very applicable in the world today and in fact almost every in the society can use it. It is a just a matter of thinking what an action will achieve, the end. So the Aristotleââ¬â¢s teleology is more or less available to the general population than Platoââ¬â¢s theory of forms where they will have to conceptualize things.
Wednesday, August 21, 2019
Chem lab report shampoo experiment Essay Example for Free
Chem lab report shampoo experiment Essay Investigate the Chemical Properties different shampoo brands and determine the best brand of shampoo manufacturers. Take your 1% shampoo solution in a beaker and using the pH meter find the pH value of the shampoo. Information: Most shampoos are neutral or slightly acidic. Acidic solutions cause the cuticle of the hair to shrink and lay flatter on the shaft of the hair. Basic solutions cause the cuticle to swell and open up. Acidic solutions make the hair seem smoother. Basic solutions make their hair seem frizzier. Test B (shake test- determination of foam formation): Put approximately 10ml of the 1% shampoo solution into a 250ml graduated cylinder and record the initial volume of the solution. Cover the cylinder with your thumb and shake 10 times. Record the total volume of the contents after shaking. Then calculate the volume of the foam only by subtracting the initial volume of the solution without the foam. Information: The smaller the bubbles the better the shampoo. Test C (foam quality and retention): This test should be done together with the previous test. After preforming the previous test record the amount of foam in each minute for a total of 4 minutes. Then find the amount of foam reduced in 4 minutes. Information: In a good shampoo, the foam retention should remain stable for at least five minutes. Test D (Dirt dispersion): Put 2 drops of shampoo in a large test tube. Add 10ml of distilled water and then add 1 drop of ink. Then put a stopper at the mouth of the test tube and shale it well 10 times. Then estimate the amount of ink in the foam as (none, Light, Moderate, or heavy) Information: Shampoos that cause the ink to concentrate in the foam are considered poor quality. The dirt should stay in the water portion. Dirt that stays in the foam will be difficult to rinse away. It will deposit on the hair. Precautions and improvements Make sure you measure the volume of shampoo before mixing it with distilled water to form foam. To ensure this used a dropper to add shampoo to a test tube. The observations should be as accurate as possible because it is difficult for one to identify the size of the bubble or how much ink is present in the foam. Conclusion and Evaluation From The above information we can come to conclusions of the best shampoo brand: Dove moisturizing is the best shampoo due to its best results during the test.Alberto VO5 is the worst shampoo due to its worst results during the test. Dove forms smaller bubbles, retains the amount of lather and also does not contain dirt in the foam rather than the liquid below. Therefore, Dove moisturizing shampoo passed all the tests. On the contrary, Alberto VO5 forms larger bubbles and disappears with time. It holds the dye on the foam and does not eliminate the dye to the liquid portion below. Therefore, VO5 is the worst shampoo that failed all tests. (Please note): The experiment was conducted with only limited amount of shampoo brands. Therefore the results pertain to only those involved in the experiment).
Tuesday, August 20, 2019
Internal And Task Environment Analysis
Internal And Task Environment Analysis The purpose of this paper is to discuss environmental factors affecting upon McDonalds management functions. And current strategy the company currently using to tackle this environmental impact. This will be achieved by exploring how McDonalds tackle with all of the external and internal environmental factors. There are mainly three factors that were selected to outline the achievement of McDonalds corporation. The first factor is globalization, which is define as closer contact between different parts of the world, with increasing possibilities of personal exchange, mutual understanding and friendship between world populations. Diversity, the difference among people and cultures, is the second factor discussed in the paper. The final factor is ethics, which can be defined as a set of principles of right conduct. This paper explains how the McDonald Corporations uses the factors to conduct business around the world. There are many different values to the dollar around the world, many issues that have occurred in many of those regions/websites, and about 120 countries served by McDonalds that Rely on the functions of management to succeed. Finally, short and long term strategic and tactical recommendations were outlined in order to enhance McDonalds competitive position within the global fast-food industry. These recommendations are both realistic and well supported, based upon the evaluation of their current strategy and activities. 1.0 Introduction McDonalds fast food restaurant is one of the largest franchises in the United States as well as aboard. Their top menu items include: hamburgers, cheeseburgers, McNuggets, and French fries. They are also known for one of their popular desserts: the apple pie and their breakfast sandwich: the Egg McMuffin. There are more than 32,000 McDonalds restaurants serving in 117 countries. More than 75% of McDonalds restaurants worldwide are owned and operated by independent owners. McDonalds has several ethical and social responsibility policies in place throughout their solely owned and franchised companies. These policies include placing the customer experience at the core of what they do, committing to their employees by nurturing their talent and rewarding their achievements, maintaining high standards regarding the conduct for business, and giving back to the communities in which they are established. All of these values are infiltrated through all levels of the company, which keeps McDonalds thriving as a successful fast food chain restaurant. Moreover, as visited McDonalds stores all over the country, it became clear to me that the drive-through business was successful priority one. Risk management is imperative to McDonalds. They have a risk assessment tool that they use to determine the country risk: which pertains to the specific country/region they are located in; industry risk: pertains to supplies produce; and facility risk: which is a combination of both country and risk groundwork. These factors are all part of the risk assessment tool that is used in each of their companies to help them with risk management. Security features in McDonalds includes their security camera systems within the facilities to continuously monitor all activity in and around the restaurants to ensure the safety for the workers as well as customers. Thus, McDonalds use these security cameras also in regards to workers compensation claims or liability lawsuit claims from consumers. McDonalds also monitors their computer software systems with an ACS system that monitors the technological factors of their business. 2.0 Internal and Task Environment Analysis 2.1 McDonalds Mission The mission statement of McDonalds fast food restaurants around the world is not much different from any restaurant chain McDonalds brand mission is to be our customers favorite place and way to eat. McDonalds vision is to be the worlds best quick service restaurant experience. Being the best means providing outstanding quality policy QCSV that is a quality, cleanliness, service and value, so that we make every customer in every restaurant smile. Moreover, have provided its customers with the opportunity to dine and mingle with family and friends too. That broad and common mission statement is more clearly defined by the McDonalds good Values for money food to its customers and to make its product offering available to a wide customer base. Currently McDonalds is implementing a global strategy that it calls Play to Win, which is designed to create a consistently excellent customer experience in McDonalds restaurants. The five key facets of that McDonalds experience are people, products, place, price, and promotion (4P). Importantly, to ensure that each customer receives prompt, professional, friendly and courteous service. Additionally, to maintain a clean, comfortable and well maintained premises for its guests and staff. The price provided at fair, nutritional using only quality ingredients well prepared meals as well. Which reflects the experience those customers can expect when walking into a McDonalds fast food restaurant no matter where it is located. Eventually, ensure that guests and staff are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve and thanks each guest for the opportunity to serve them. By maintaining these objectives, aims to be assured of a fair profit that will allow it to contribute to the community it serve. 2.2 McDonalds Objectives A marketing plan must be created to meet clear objectives. Objectives guide marketing actions and are used to measure how well a plan is working. These can be related to market share, sales, and goals, reaching the target audience and creating awareness in the marketplace. The objectives communicate what marketers want to achieve. Long-term objectives are broken down into shorter-term measurable targets, which McDonalds uses as milestones along the way. Results can be analyzed regularly to see whether objectives are being met. This type of feedback allows the company to change plans. It gives flexibility. Once marketing objectives are set the next stage is to define how they will be achieved. The marketing strategy is the statement of how objectives will be delivered. It explains what marketing actions and resources will be used and how they will work together. However, wish to provide tasty foods and drink we sell meets the highest standards of quality, freshness, seasonality, combines both modern-creative and traditional southern styles of cooking for their customers. Making Money is the main objective of any business and without it the company would go bust. To consistently provide customers with impeccable service by demonstrating warmth, graciousness, efficiency, knowledge, professionalism and integrity in its work. To have every customer who comes through its doors leave impressed by McDonalds and excited to come back again. Most people can find a McDonalds in any metropolitan city anywhere in the world. McDonalds global success can be attributed to company objectives. When consumers are aware of McDonalds objectives, they better understood the value of such a large, global franchise in helping people find employment and in offering a cheap, sustainable product to their consumers. To create and maintain a restaurant that is comprehensive and exceptional in its attention to every detail of operation. Moreover, can provide all who work with them a friendly, cooperative and rewarding environment which encourages long- term, satisfying, growth employment so simple to able make their customers happy. They also need and have trained staff who are supposed to put a smile on the customers faces and who deal with the business side of the company e.g. profits etc. Additionally to provide a consistent and steady source of revenue and income for its shareholders and all related stakeholders. Besides, also to be a responsible corporate citizen and to be an exemplary corporate member in the countries in which it operates. 2.3 McDonalds Social Responsibility Being aware of and act on its responsibilities as a good corporate citizen. McDonalds firmly believes in giving back to the communities in. We love to provide support and encouragement to the people who need it the most. All our restaurants approach to charities and sponsorships. We believe these help inspire the people of Pakistan, especially the underprivileged ones, to live a better life. We are dedicated to delivering great experiences through our ongoing community support programs. Undertake meaningful involvement of McDonalds restaurants in selected charitable activities in its community and region. As supported a school activity recently for Compass-a school for the under privileged children also extended support by providing free food for students at the carnival arranged by the school. All McDonalds products shall be of the highest quality and value, be healthy, nutritious and provided with outstanding personal services at the lowest possible prices consistent with a fair return on investment for shareholders, job enhancement/security for employees and a level of community involvement by everyone connected with its business. Therefore, all products and services shall be delivered consistently and measured one satisfied customer at a time, whether by company-owned or franchised operations, in superior, clean, convenient, fun and friendly neighborhood environments. Eventually, and make McDonalds the best place to eat and the best place to work. To make people realize that the worlds natural resources are fast diminishing and something must be done about it, McDonalds has created a public awareness program called McSaviors.McSaviors has certainly helped in bringing about a sense of awareness in adults that Pakistan faces a shortage of water and electricity and that good care must be taken of these precious resources. All school children are eligible to join McSaviors. They can become members by visiting any McDonalds Restaurant and filling out the registration form. It is also planned to seek the support of schools in further promoting the program. Question 2 Investigate the external environment factors in which this organization is operating. (E.g. using PESTLED tools to analyses the external environment.) 3.0 External Environment Analysis The PESTLE Analysis is a framework used to scan the organizations external environment factor. PESTLE stands for Political, Economical, Social, Technological, Legal and Environmental. 3.1. PESTEL Analysis and Environmental Impact Matrix (Macro Environment) A PESTLE analysis should feed into a SWOT analysis as it helps to determine the threats and opportunities represented by macro-environment forces that the organization usually cannot control. Hence, below table provides an analysis of the external international marketing environment as well as the threats and opportunities of each factor of the fast-food industry. 3.1.1 Political Alarmed by links between poor diet and disease, as well as striking increases in obesity, policymakers, the public, and health professionals have challenged food industry practices. Although many forces contribute to obesity and poor diet, food industry behaviors such as marketing unhealthy foods to children, promoting large portions and between-meal snacks, and exploiting schools for commercial gain have raised calls for government regulation and paved the path for actions such as requiring calorie labeling in restaurants. The menu of McDonald in the pass do not label the nutritions of the food. Hence customers do not aware unhealthy food of fast food that provided by cDonald. Starting in 2006, the fast food behemoth promises to place nutrition information on the packaging of most menu items(R1). Recently, While millions of Americans working low-paying jobs, President Barack Obamas call for a $9 minimum hourly wage were successful in February 2013 (R2). This regulation makes McDonal d not happy because it would reduce revenue of the company and it is a threat to McDonald business. 3.1.2 Economical McDonalds, the worlds largest fast-food chain, reported a decline in an important global sales figure, the first such drop in almost a decade by November 2012(R3). It is an unexpected sharp drop in sales which some restaurants sales fell 2.2 percent in the United States and Europe and declined 2.4 percent in the Asia Pacific, Africa and Middle East regions (R3). However, Global Fast Food Restaurants global market research report provides the latest industry statistics and industry trends, major fast food retailers have responded by expanding the number of healthy options on their menus, the general trend toward health awareness has hurt demand for the typically greasy food provided by the these restaurants. However, the industry experienced steady and growing demand from emerging economies, which boosted the industrys overall performance. Over the five years to 2012, industry revenue will grow at an average annual rate of 2.2% to $499.5 billion(R4). Therefore,the industry report identifies the leading companies globally and offers strategic industry analysis of the key factors influencing the market. Furthermore the unemployment rate of McDonald is decreasing over the five years to 2012 (R5) and the figure is shown in Appendix. Hence, McDonalds is going on a hiring blitz for thousands of jobs in Canada has been announced on 9th April 2013(R6). 3.1.3 Social In the last few decades the number of so-called civilization diseases has dramatically increased. Research has proved that the main cause for these diseases is the change in way of life, including rising stress in a fast paced world and a lack of attention to physical activity and good nutrition. Nutrition and bad dietary habits have the greatest influence on weight gain and obesity, which are serious public health problems because the increased risk of premature death and civilization diseases like heart diseases, high blood pressure and diabetes. The state of health in the European countries was examined, with special focus on Hungary, regarding public health indicators and nutrition habits (R7). The fast-food industry is a favour restaurant for nowadays peoples and has been criticised for providing unhealthy food to consumers and caused obesity in the country. 3.1.4 Technological McDonalds has adopted the use of technology in delivering its fast food to their consumers. The most recent McDonalds technology development has been installing WI-FI hotspots in most of their restaurants globally (R8). This model is made to introduce more young and tech-people into the restaurants creating some what of a starbucks feel, which by the way is free. Besides, Mcdonalds uses a 100% biodiesel technology (R8). Doing this has helped reduce carbon emissions with the truck making the deliveries. Moreover, McDonalds uses Nintendo DS system as a e-learning training tool for their new recruit staff in over 3,000 of their restaurants. These gaming systems train the recruits and grade them on their performance, in which they can compare with other colleagues and view their progress. There are many types of information systems used in McDonalds too such as Transaction Processing System (TPS), Decision support system (DSS), Management Information Systems (MIS), Made for you system, POS system Scale of Point system and Hyperactive Bob system(R9). Transaction system is important to answer routine questions, and it helps to conduct business such as payroll, employee record keeping or paying an employee. Decision support system is used to model data and make quality decision based on the data , making the right decision is usually based on the quality of the data and ones ability to analyze the data. Management information system is a system that provides information needed to manage organizations effectively. In Made for you system when a customer places an order , the sandwich item will immediately appears in the computer monitor in the kitchen and a tone sound to alert the kitchen staff . Point of scale system to ensure fast and accurate order , because this system is used to speed the business process, it can track massive amounts of data in seconds. The Hyperactive Bob system used computers and rooftop cameras to monitor traffic entering a restaurants parking lot and drive-thru. All these technologies used by McDonald are helping in daily business and ensure the business delivers smooth to customers. 3.1.5 Legal McDonalds has been involved in certain of lawsuits and other legal cases in their fast food business. Defamation in the McLibel case was an English lawsuit happened by McDonalds Corporation against environmental activists Helen Steel and David over a pamphlet critical of the company(R10). McDonald was won in the English court. McDonald has been sued a restaurant MacJoy in Phillipines for using a similar restaurant name with McDonald(R11). This is to keep the name of McDonald as their company trademark and copyright in the regulation. McDonald complies with the global operators regulation which are opening hours, taxation and employment in all business country such as real case happened between McDonald and Coalition of Immokalee workers in US (R11). Besides, all global countries are required to meet national food standards such as the requirements set out by the Malaysia Ministry of Health, McDonald food must Halal in Malaysia(R12). Advertisement of McDonald must honour and cannot mislead the consumers (R11). Furthermore, health and safety law is important to ensure workers are working in the safe working environment, McDonald restaurant (R11). 3.1.6 Environmental Environmental activists are promoting go green as well as it is encouraged by most countries governments so McDonald has been introduced go green program such as REDUCE, RE-USE, RECYCLE, DISPOSE. Its better to recycle trash than to throw it away, better to re-use a bottle or bag directly than to recycle it, and best of all to reduce garbage by not generating it in the first place. McDonalds has been whittling away at the thickness of its polystyrene burger containers, straws, and cold drink lids, reducing them on average by 12 percents (R13). McDonald is welcome in every step toward environmental responsibility such as above organized program. 4.0 McDonalds Internal and External Analysis The following framework identifies McDonalds review of the Corrective Action System. For SWOT steps and flow. STRENGHS 1.Ranks very high on the Forture Magazines food service companies that are most admired list. 2.One of the best brand recognition in the world,the golden arches and Ronald McDonald. 3.Global operations all over the world. 4.Cultural diversity in the foods that are provided based on location of the restaurant. 5.Excellent locations in theme parks,airports,Wal-Mart store,and along most well traveled roads. 6.Efficient operating guidelines in the assembly line fashion. 7.Food safety guidelines are strictly adhered to. WEAKNESSES 1.Failing pizza test market thus limiting their ability to complete with fast food pizza providers. 2.Training costs are elevated due to high 3.Very minimal concentration on providing organic foods. 4.Large fluctuations in their net and operating profits making impacts on the investors. 5.Not much variation in seasonal products that are affered. 6.Quality concerns due to franchised operations. 7.Focus on burgers and grease fried foods and not on healthier option for their customers. OPPORTUNITIES 1.Opening more joint ventures with several different retailers. 2.Being more responsive to the social changes to healthier options. 3.advertising the capabilities of Wifi internet services in the branches. 4.Expanding on the advertising in regards to being more socially responsible in the environment. 5.Expansions of business into newly developed parts of the world. 6.Open product up to allergen free options such as peanut free and gluten free foods. 7.Continue to venture into more enticing beverage choices. THREATS 1.Their marketing strategies that entice people from small children all the way to adults and the criticism that they take beause of it. 2.Lawsuts for offering unhealthy foods that have alleged addictive additives. 3.Contamination risks that include the threat of e-coli containments. 4.The vast amount of eat in fast food restaurants that are open as competition. 5.Social changes to a more balanced meal in cluding fruits and vegetables in servings of five per day. 6.Focus on healthier dieting by consumers. 7.Down turn in economy affecting the ability to eat out as much. 4.1 Internal Analysis 4.1.1 Resources and Capabilities A firms resources and capabilities can be measured through identifying its tangible andintangible resources and capabilities within. Tangible and intangible resources aresignificant in implementing firms strategies. It ranges from financial, physical,technological and organizational; while intangible can be human, innovation andreputational assets. Incase of Macdonalds, is the worlds largest chain of hamburgersfast food restaurants, serving nearly 47 million customers daily.The restaurants arefound in 119 countries and territories around the world. McDonalds operates over 31,000restaurants worldwide, employing more than 1.5 million people. Looking at theincreasing popularity especially in South-Asian region it is predicted Macdonalds wouldexpand even further in new countries and unexplored territories. 4.2 External Analysis McDonalds has many opportunities in the external environment due to an increase in eating out, and growth of the hot drinks market. During the recession, McDonalds Informal Eating Out (IEO) market share increased to a record high of 11.5% and a quarter of surveyed teenagers said they purchase fast-food at least once a week (Mintel, 2011). They are a global company operating more than 23,500 restaurants in 109 countries. By being spread out in different regions, this gives them the ability to weather economic fluctuations which are localized by country. They can also operate effectively in an economic downturn due to the social need to seek out comfort foods. Health consciousness trends are a global threat, as McDonalds has been traditionally perceived as offering only fatty food. Recently, some healthier options have been introduced, i.e. salads and wraps, in efforts to shift their position in the consumer eye. However, the brand is still perceived as unhealthy and this poses a continual threat. McDonalds uses only 100% pure USDA inspected beef, no fillers or additives. Additionally the produce is farm fresh. McDonalds serves 100% farm raised chicken no fillers or additives and only grade-A eggs. McDonalds foods are purchased from only certified and inspected suppliers. McDonalds works closely with ranchers, growers and suppliers to ensure food quality and freshness. 5.0 Recommendations Strategic and tactical recommendations for McDonalds. The following table outlines the strategic and tactical recommendations for the future success: Short term (6 months- 1 year) Long-term (1- 5 Years) Developing and expanding business in developing countries with the middle classes Promoting recycling and environmentally friendly program in the internal working environment Adapting the foods according to the cultural and regional taste as well as provide healthy food Encourage social responsibility program for health awareness Loyalty program such as provide discount in happy hour and give free items with loyalty sticker or card Expand business with other healthy food brand 5.1 Short Term Recommendations (6 months 1 year) Growing middle classes in developing country give an opportunity for expanding the business since many western markets are saturated. Besides, McDonald has been focused on the taste of the food according to regional and emerging economies offer multiple opportunities for product adaptation. For example, pastry options in Brazil and cheese products in India could increase sales. Further adaptation of meal size and price will cater for a larger market demographic as well as introduce healthy food in all franchises since health awareness is strictly important around the world. A loyalty program could be used to increase frequency of a customers purchasing. This could be introduced discounts in certain happy hours, or given free items with loyalty sticker or card when over a purchase limit to encourage more purchase. 5.2 Long Term Recommendations (1 5 years) Awareness of environment, environmentally-friendly and ethically-sourced packaging are activated by most global countries. This encourages McDonald provides this knowledge among the workers in a working environment to show difference McDonald culture compare to their competitors. Although McDonalds every year supports social responsibility in ophanant houses, old folks, blind houses in various charities to help weak peoples, further emphasis on charitable work could positively alter customers perception of the brand. Besides, promote health awareness to them with McDonalds products. Expanding the health-conscious fast-food market under the guise of a different brand would secure a larger market share and diversify their business, spreading the risk of failure. 6.0 Conclusion It is argued that effective marketing strategies and tactics cannot be developed withoutfirstly analysing the environment in which the company operates. A number of uncontrollable elements affect McDonalds international marketing strategy and tacticalimplementation. These groups of elements include the PESTLE (political, economic,social, technological, legal and environmental), structure of the market and competition being faced (Porters (1980) five forces analysis) as well as analysis of its stakeholders,customers and product adaptation within its internationalisation strategy. All of theseaspects are crucial to a companys strategic decision making. The level of understandingthat exists in these relationships will determine the success of a company. McDonalds is not making a one-time standardised global choice but it is striking tofind a balance. This is not a straightforward task, as identifying the balance betweenstandardisation and adaptation is a challenge and very difficult to achieve. The goals of reducing costs and complexity lead McDonalds to consider standardisation, whilecustomer orientation sways it towards adaptation. It is evident through the analysis thatMcDonalds is adapting its marketing mix elements in order to go in line with the externalenvironment. At the same time, it should be noted that the company is also standardisingwhen and where possible in its desire to achieve economies of scale and global uniformityand image.With respect to McDonalds internationalisation strategy, the companys effectivenessand profitability is obviously well supported by their strong competitive position andmarket share in their primary product market. Its international success is achieved by thecompanys strategy and tactics, which complement each other and work in harmony, providing the optimum return bounded by efficiency. The company is thriving as it is botheffective (doing things right) and efficient (doing the right thing).McDonalds portfolio of products is well managed and ensures the best fit between thecompanys strengths and weaknesses and for offsetting the threats found in its competitiveenvironment. In considering the strong competitive position of the firm in a highlyattractive market, it is suggested that McDonalds should protect its position (Mckinseymatrix). This can be achieved by concentrating efforts on maintaining its existing strength by investing to grow at maximum digestible rate. It is recommended that McDonalds continue this approach, that is: simultaneouslyfocus its attention on aspects of the business that require global standardisation and aspectsthat demand local responsiveness. When appropriate, processes should be standardised,however, operation in local markets necessitates the maintenance of the appropriate localflexibility.McDonalds is adopting differentiation and cost leadership strategies (genericstrategies). In terms of differentiation, the firm attempts to be diverse from its competitors by adding something to its product that will provide a unique value to its customers. 7.0 References 1) http://www.commondreams.org/views05/1103-23.htm. Last accessed on 12/04/2012 2) http://money.msn.com/now/post.aspx?post=d184c64e-c231-426c-bb2e-8935ebd3ee06. Last accessed on 12/03/2012 3)http://www.nytimes.com/2012/11/09/business/mcdonalds-reports-global-decline-in-sales.html?ref=mcdonaldscorporation. Last accessed on 12/03/2012 4) http://www.ibisworld.com/industry/global/global-fast-food-restaurants.html. Last accessed on 12/03/2012 5) http://research.stlouisfed.org/fred2/series/MOMCDO9URN. Last accessed on 13/03/2012 6) http://www.chch.com/home/item/12412-mcdonalds-hiring-day. Last accessed on 13/03/2012 7) http://ageconsearch.umn.edu/bitstream/44325/2/460.pdf. Last accessed on 13/03/2012 8) http://mcdonaldsteam3.blogspot.com/2010/05/mcdonalds-corp.html. Last accessed on 13/03/2012 9) http://mcdonaldsmis.blogspot.com/p/mcdonalds-is_04.html. Last accessed on 14/03/2012 10) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/McLibel_Case. Last accessed on 14/03/2012 11) http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/McDonalds_legal_cases. Last accessed on 14/03/2012 12) http://www.mcdonalds.com.my/abtus/CSR.pdf. Last accessed on 15/03/2012 13) http://www.sustainer.org/dhm_archive/index.php?display_article=vn304mcdonaldsed 8.0 Bibliography http://www.aboutmcdonalds.com/mcd/our_company/mission_and_values.html.Last accessed on 8/04/2012 http://retailindustry.about.com/od/retailbestpractices/ig/Company-Mission-Statements/McDonald-s-Restaurants-Mission-Statement.htm. Last accessed on 8/04/2012 http://wiki.answers.com/Q/What_are_the_aims_and_objectives_of_McDonalds.Last accessed on 10/04/2012 http://businesscasestudies.co.uk/mcdonalds-restaurants/the-marketing-process/marketing-objectives.html#axzz2Prg92Wds. Last accessed on 10/04/2012 http://www.mcdonalds.com.pk/page/corporate-social-responsibility. Last accessed on 10/04/2012 http://www.mcdonalds.com.pk/page/corporate-social-resp
Essay on African-American American Nightmare in Song of Solomon
American Dream or African-American American Nightmare à à The Declaration of Independence was written so Americans could achieve this dream, but the African slave was never intended to be a part of this American Dream. To the African-American, there were and still are many restrictions that go along with the American Dream. à In Toni Morrison's novel, Song of Solomon, Macon Dead craved for the American Dream. He was in denial and believed that he could be just as successful as the white man. Macon desired to own everything, including people. Macon tells Milkman the following: à Let me tell you right now the one important thing you'll ever need to know: Own things. And let things you own own things. Then you'll own yourself and other people too (Morrison 55). à Macon must have suffered from a memory loss because when his father acquired a house and land, he was blown five feet in the air. Was striving for the American Dream really worth dying for? à Striving for the American Dream ruined Macon's relationship with his family and his community. This is a perfect example of The Dream becoming the American Dream gone wrong or the American Nightmare. Macon lost his family while gaining property and "things." à Milkman's dream, on the other hand, was to become a man on his own terms not on his father's terms. He obtains his dream by finding his heritage and learning about his ancestors. Unfortunately, obtaining his dream ends in the ultimate dream, which is death. à Morrison's use of magic realism keeps the reader guessing what is real and what is imaginary. Milkman often had dreams or nightmares as a child: à He had had dreams as a child, dreams every child had of the w... ...ll African-Americans ever obtain the American Dream? They still hope for it or it would not be a recurring theme in black literature. By making white Americans aware of black history and black plight, maybe one day African-Americans will be considered "true equals" in white society. à Works Cited and Consulted Hughes, Langston. "Dream Deferred". Literature, Reading Fiction, Poetry, Drama & the Essay. 4th Edition, Published by McGraw Hill, 1998. Jefferson, Thomas. The Declaration of Independence. 1776. The Norton Anthology of American Literature, 4th ed. v.1,ed. Nina Baym et al (NY: Norton, 1994), 729. King, Jr., Martin Luther. "I Have a Dream." A Testament of Hope: The Essential Writings of Martin Luther King Jr., Ed. J. M. Washington. Harper & Row, 1986. 217, 219. Morrison, Toni. Song of Solomon. New York: The Penguin Group, 1977. à Ã
Monday, August 19, 2019
Sophies World By Jostein Gaarder :: essays research papers
Sophie's World is about the life of a 14 year-old girl called Sophie Amundsen. It takes you on a journey though 3000 years of Western philosophy, presenting important and in most cases annoying questions.This is the explanation of philosophy and philosophers given in the book:"A white rabbit is pulled out of a top hat. Because it is an extremely large rabbit, the trick takes many billions of years. All mortals are born at the very tip of the rabbit's fine hairs, where they are in a position to wonder at the impossibility of the trick. But as they grow older they work themselves ever deeper into the fur. And there they stay. They become so comfortable they never risk crawling up the fragile hairs again. Only philosophers embark on this perilous expedition to the outermost reaches of language and existence. Some of them fall off, but others cling on desperately and yell at the people nestling deep in the snug softness, stuffing themselves with delicious food and drink.'Ladies and gentlemen,' they yell, 'we are floating in space!' But none of the people down there care.'What a bunch of troublemakers!' they say. And keep on chatting: Would you pass the butter please? How much have our stocks risen today? What is the price of tomatoes?"Some of the questions raised include:Why are we here? Is there a God? Where does the world come from?This book attempts to tell you what people in the past have thought, fusing the historical side with the story itself.Sophie is taking a course in philosophy from Alberto Knox. Together they are trying to find their own answers to the questions so important to mankind. Then Sophie begins to receive postcards addressed to Hilde. But who is Hilde? And why are the postcards being sent care of Sophie? Coupled with the course in philosophy, Sophie and Alberto begin to question their very existence. Sophie finds a book about herself in a book about herself, and things seem to fall into place. Does the world Sophie and all her friends live in exist at all, or is it just in someone's imagination or even in a book?
Sunday, August 18, 2019
The Styles In And Around Me :: Personal Narrative Golf Language Essays
The Styles In and Around Me My senior year in high school I was playing first man for the varsity golf. That honor was bestowed on me, because I was supposedly the best man on the team. Which just happened to be true. It was an honor that I truly enjoyed. But playing first man also had its drawbacks. The one that I will speak of here is the style of speaking that I had to use while playing in a tournament. It's the sixteenth hole of an eighteen hole tournament up in Roseau. There were two guys in my group that were ahead of me in score and I needed to get a stroke back really soon if I planned on earning a medal. I hit a good drive, right down the middle about two hundred seventy yards. With a hundred and fifty yards left to the pin, I grabbed an eight iron, because I knew that I could get it there. Something went wrong and the shot drifted to the right and missed the green. On any leisure round in the summer I would have screamed out obscenities until I was blue in the face. But that would cost me penalty stro kes, since it against the rule to swear in high school golf. Instead I softly let out an "Oh no, come back", but inside I was chomping at the bit to let out a cuss word. Golf talk, to me, is the lesser extreme of that style that I have inside of me. When I am playing hockey, a totally different style emotes from me. The style that I display in hockey is the exact opposite from the on that I use when playing golf. The on ice chatter that goes on between competitors is the reason for this. Hockey is not a gentlemen's game. So using a language that is meant to intimidate your opponent is very crucial. When I am skating down the ice next to some big lug I usually say some derogatory statement about his mother. Statements like these are meant rile the opponent, get him off his game. In the game of golf, I would never even think of using this type of tactic to beat an opponent. The different style of game also lends to a different style of language. In golf, if I leave a putt short, or something like that it usually gets a "darn" or "shoot.
Saturday, August 17, 2019
How Was Sparta Governed
How was Sparta governed? The Spartan Government Ancient Spartan government was a complex system of intertwined elements, which affected the power control. In many ways, ancient Sparta was a communist state, with the lack of luxuries, other Grecian states enjoyed and the strict control for equality but was complicated with the almost religious need for a democratic vote. Sparta had three levels of government; the Kingsââ¬â¢, the Gerousia, the Ephors and the Ekklesia, each having their own requirements, limitations and powers.The Spartan monarchy consisted of 2 kings which governed over Sparta. Unlike other Grecian kings, Spartan Kings had very little power and did not have an autocratic rule over day-to-day life. A Spartan kingsââ¬â¢ duties were classified as religious, military, judicial roles. As the head figure of religion in Sparta, the kings were the priests of Zeus, Lacedaemonis and Zeus Uranius. The kingsââ¬â¢ family would also worship these gods. As a monthly ritual, the kings were expected to make an animal sacrifice to the god Apollo, as to maintain the pleasure of the gods.This was similar to the sacrifice he would make prior to going to war. As a part of his religious role, the king would appoint two Pythioi who would travel back and forth to consult with the oracle (a possessed priestess whom was said to speak the words of the Gods) at Delphi. During a time of war, only one king would be sent with the battalions, and would be the supreme commander of the army. In the field of battle, the king would have ultimate power over his troops, including the life or death of his army. During the course of the war, the king would have a personal bodyguard of 100 men.Being a part of the royal bodyguard was considered to be one of the greatest honours. Amongst this body guard, 2 members of the Ephorââ¬â¢s would be in attendance, and keep an eye on his activities. They would record any failure or misconduct during a military campaign and could lead to the recall of the army, or punishment of the king. As stated above, the Kingsââ¬â¢ power was strictly limited, which is seen in his judicial role. The king was responsible for all matters pertaining to public highways (e. g. the repairs, conflicts, etc).He was responsible for all legal matters in regards to the adoption of children and the power to decide upon the marriage partner of an heiress whose father died. Despite the extremities of limits the kingsââ¬â¢ faced he had privileges which were considered as a ââ¬Ëluxuryââ¬â¢ in terms of Spartan society, such as the kingsââ¬â¢ being supported at the expense of the state. They would also receive minor honours such as the best seats at religious festivals. During mealtimes, the kings were given the first seats at a banquet and were served first at the Syssitia.During the Syssition the kings would also receive double portions of a meal. Another privilege of the kings, following a successful war campaign, the king (who went to war) would be given a percentage of the spoils of victory. The kings could also receive the skins of any animal that had been sacrificed in a religious ceremony. At the event of a kingââ¬â¢s death, all public business would be ceased for a 10 day period, where civilians would wear mourning clothing. During his funeral, the kingââ¬â¢s reign would be lauded as being greater than any other previous king.Herodotus describes the role of the kings in The Histories in Book VI (6) as ââ¬Å"The prerogatives of the Spartan kings are these: two priesthoods, of Zeus Lakedaemonâ⬠¦ and the power of declaring war on whom they pleaseâ⬠. The kingsââ¬â¢ role in governing Sparta was more of figure of status, that maintaining any real power outside the battlefields of war. Following the Kingsââ¬â¢ power, were the Gerousia. The Gerousia was a group of 28 members (a total of 30, with addition of the kingsââ¬â¢). The requirements to join the Gerousia was to be a man sixty years or older, and considered to be too old for warfare.Aristotle describes the Gerousia as ââ¬Å"it might be debated whether they should be continued judges for life and so determine matters of the greatest importance, since the mind has its old age as well as the bodyâ⬠. Being a member of this particular government was considered to be prestigious and ensured the high status of the Spartiate as the position carried on until the death of the individual. The Gerousia was a body whose position it was to prepare and debate bills, which were then passed on to the lower levels of government.Their other main function was to be the head court of justice, and would decide upon treasonous crimes by the citizens. Unlike the kingsââ¬â¢ powers having limitations, the Gerousiaââ¬â¢s only main limitation was that although it was the court of Justice, it was the Ephors who were the Supreme court of Appeal. From this, the Gerousia is deemed a powerful level of government. The Ephors w ere next in power, below the Gerousia, but considered one of the most powerful bodies of government. The Ephors were a body of 5 men aged 30 and above who had full Spartiate citizenship.These men were supposedly representatives for every village in Sparta. The roles of the Ephors were monitoring the kingsââ¬â¢, interactions with the Ekklesia, controlled the education and the Krypteia. As a part of the Ephors, or Ephorate, the citizen had an enormous power over the king. As such, they could monitor the king in his own home, 2 members would join a king should warfare occur and bring could bring him to an account, should he fail to have a successful war campaign. During a time of war, it was also the responsibility of the Ephors to organise the mobilisation of the army.A failure could lead him to defend himself in front of a court of Gerousia and Ephorate members, whose role it was to be the deciders of a kingââ¬â¢s fate if prosecuted for wrong-doing. The Ephors were also the sup reme court and supreme court of appeal in Sparta, allowing them significant power over the Spartiates, Inferiors and Helots. In As an Ephor, a Spartiate held much control over the laws in which Sparta was governed. They could introduce legislation, which, without the permission of the Ephors, foreign envoys could not enter into Sparta.They could also create laws for foreign policies and control when meetings of the Ekklesia and Gerousia took place. They would oversee and preside over the meetings, introduce legislation and check on the numerous magistrates in Sparta. Ephorates had the power to control the Krypteia, a secret police for Spartiate boys aged 19 ââ¬â 24 whose objective was to hunt and kill Helots. The Ephors also had the power to allocate Helots to Spartiate families, who would work domestic jobs for them as serfs. The Ephors also controlled the run the Agoge, or Spartan education system.This was a complex system where boys were sent out at the age of 7 until approxi mately 20 to learn to be warriors. Similar to the Gerousia, the Ephors had limitations to their powers. This included that their time in office was a single year and after that single term, they could not become an Ephor again. After their term in office, the Spartiate would revert to a citizen and it was said that if an Ephor behaved badly during his time in office, he could be trialled for his misdoings. Aristotle provides information on the Ephors stating; ââ¬Å"â⬠¦ he Ephorateâ⬠¦ has supreme authority in the most important mattersâ⬠, which adds to the belief that the Ephors being a key part in government and the running of Sparta. The Ekklesia or as referred to in older books as the Apella, was the assembly of the Spartiate males, who were involved in Spartan politics. Any Spartiate male over the age of 30 who had retained his citizenship was eligible to sit in the assembly. The Ekklesia had the power for legislations, elections, warfare, kingships and Helots.When the Ephors presented legislations to the Ekklesia, the assembly had the right to vote on laws; and they could ratify treaties. The Ekklesia is also responsible for the elections of the Gerousia and Ephors, and deciding which king would go to war with the Army. Although itââ¬â¢s disputed, it was said from c. 700 BC onwards that the Ekklesia had the right to declare war on enemies. When the families of royal lineage disputed over the next monarch, it was the Ekklesia who would ultimately choose who would take the throne.Most disputes originated on the laws of succession, as a male son could not take the throne should he be born prior to his father succeeding the throne. Should that situation arise, it would be passed on to the next male heir. Other succession disputes originate from the lack of male heirs, in which case the throne would be passed on to the nephews of the late king. The Ekklesia was also responsible for the freeing of Helots, should they have done something extremel y courageous on the battle front, to earn their freedom.The Ekklesia had many limitations to their power, as they could not offer amendments to any of the presented legislations. Their democratic votes for laws could be ignored by the higher levels of government (Ephors or Gerousia) or be contradicted by Rider to the Rhetra which was introduced by previous kings, Polydorus and Theopompous. Although the Ekklesia was one of the largest bodies of government in Sparta, it very limited in the influences it could make on Spartan society. Spartan government was a complex set of layers, which had many limitations to the amount of power each layer had.
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