The Black N Decker Matrix System - 1303 Words

The Black+Decker MATRIX System is used by many people who can consist of, but not limited to, homeowners, construction workers and contractors. We see a lot of homeowners’ purchase this tool because it is a combination of many tools in one allowing them to perform all their DIY needs. In 2012, Black+Decker launched the MATRIX System and it received a â€Å"Best of What’s New† Award from Popular Science Magazine. This system is available as 12V MAX* or 20V MAX* and comes with a 4.0 Amp base power unit. The base power unit is sold as the main operating tool which has the drill/driver attachment. In order for the customer to keep all their tools in one place Black+Decker is coming out with two storage systems just for this model. The two models are a canvas storage bag or a plastic hard case. This tool has 6 interchangeable head attachments. The attachments consist of an impact driver, oscillating multi-tool, jigsaw detail sander, router and trim saw. In November, 2013 Black+Decker also released the Outdoor 6† compact hedge trimmer and 4† grass shear attachment (â€Å"Outdoor Products†, 2013). The MATRIX system has a Quick Connect System, which allows the attachments to be changed quickly and effectively for all your power tool and ou tdoor needs. The MATRIX tool allows users to access some of the most popular industrial tools which were originally geared towards professionals. The Consumer Power Tool Business grew 6% organically. These successes can be attributed to the new products fromShow MoreRelatedThe Black N Decker Matrix System1319 Words   |  6 PagesThe product I have chosen is the Black+Decker MATRIX System. This tool is used by many people who can consist of, but not limited to, homeowners, construction workers and contractors. We see a lot of homeowners’ purchase this tool because it is a combination of many tools in one allowing them to perform all their DIY needs. In 2012, Black+Decker launched the MATRIX System and it received a â€Å"Best of What’s New† Award from Popular Science Magazine. This system is available as 12V MAX* or 20V MAX* andRead MoreAnalyzing Consumer Perceptions4844 Words   |  20 Pagesnecessary. For example, in â€Å"Black and Decker: Power Tools† case,1 management commissioned surveys to †¢ †¢ Obtain tradesmen perceptions of the â€Å"overall quality† of 11 brands of tools Compare perceptions of the Black and Decker brand vs. those of key competitors Makita and Milwaukee on six dimensions: †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ Is â€Å"one of best† High-quality tool Durable tool Proud to own Stands behind product Easy-to-get service These perceptual data were critical in diagnosing Black and Decker’s problem and suggestingRead MoreDesigning Effective International Organizations2689 Words   |  11 Pagescooperation† â€Å"The Global Organization must have Virtual System of Boundary-Spanning Relationships, thus creating â€Å"Soft-Side† Culture of interdependence and Innovation† STRUCTURE FOR INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS There is a fact that rarely can a firm extend its domestic structure into a global environment. Also there is no ideal model that defines the optimal multinational organization. Nevertheless, companies try to establish stable systems for management. Our focus here will be on: PatternsRead MoreSwot Analysis Of Lockheed Martin1857 Words   |  8 PagesLockheed Martin Strategic Audit Ernest N. Vaughn Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Lockheed Martin Strategic Audit I- Executive Summary Lockheed Martin paves the way in the aerospace industry as a strong industry leader. Their innovative creativity is fed by a substantial backing in research and development in aerospace and technology. Lockheed Martin will remain competitive in their market if they continuously apply SWOT analysis to their firm. This will allow them to accurately identifyRead MoreStrategic Marketing Management337596 Words   |  1351 Pagesweaknesses Evaluating competitive relationships and analysing how organizations compete Identifying competitors’ objectives Identifying competitors’ likely response profiles Competitor analysis and the development of strategy The competitive intelligence system The development of a competitive stance: the potential for ethical conflict Summary CONTENTS vii Stage Two: Where do we want to be? Strategic direction and strategic formulation 7 Missions and objectives 7.1 7.2 7.3 7.4 7.5 7.6 7.7 7.8 LearningRead MoreFactors Affect Choice of Bank Services23387 Words   |  94 Pagesthis dimension could enhance overall satisfaction and thus financial performance. A study was conducted on the Pakistan customers by Khattak et al. (2010). They analyzed the customer s satisfaction and awareness level towards the Islamic banking system and investigated the relationship between different demographic variables and the satisfaction and awareness of customers by taking a sample of 156 customers. They go to the point that the major factors were management proficiency, bank‟s personalRead MoreCrocs Marketing Plan14993 Words   |  60 Pages.............. 26 Page 3 of 50 CROCS STAYING AHEAD OF THE COMPETITION 5. SWOT analysis Confrontation matrix ............................................................................................ 27 5.1 SWOT Analysis ............................................................................................................................. 27 5.2 Confrontation Matrix.................................................................................................................Read MoreBrand Building Blocks96400 Words   |  386 Pagess strategic vision, and partly because they cannot evaluate intangible assets. As a result, managers are motivated to make current performance look good. b. Management style itself is dominated by a short-term orientation. Annual budgeting systems usually emphasize short-term sales, costs, and profits. As a result, brand-building programs are often sacrificed in order to meet these targets. Planning is too often an exercise in spreadsheet manipulation of short-term financial data rather thanRead MoreProject Managment Case Studies214937 Words   |  860 Pageson acid-free paper. @ Copyright O 2006 by John Wiley Sons, Inc. All rights reserved. Published by John Wiley Sons, Inc., Hoboken, New Jersey Published simultaneously in Canada No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, scanning, or otherwise, except as permitted under Section 107 or 108 of the 1976 United States Copyright Act, without either the prior written permissionRead MoreStephen P. Robbins Timothy A. Judge (2011) Organizational Behaviour 15th Edition New Jersey: Prentice Hall393164 Words   |  1573 Pagespublishing as Prentice Hall. All rights reserved. Manufactured in the United States of America. This publication is protected by Copyright, and permission should be obtained from the publisher prior to any prohibited reproduction, storage in a retrieval system, or transmission in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or likewise. To obtain permission(s) to use material from this work, please submit a written request to Pearson Education, Inc., Permissions Department

The Evil God Challenge Stephen Law - 1561 Words

The Evil God Challenge Introduction Stephen Law conducted a thought experiment with a purpose of establishing the existence of an evil God, whereby he challenged those who believed in the presence of a kind and good God, doing nothing evil, and argued that the existent God is wicked indeed. The hypothesis developed into the challenge based on the argument that, if an omnibenevolent God is said to exist, yet there is so much evil in the world, then there is as well a possibility that an evil God exists, yet there is so much good. Law aimed to doubt not the fact of the existence of God, but the generally accepted assumption that the existing God is benevolent. Another researcher, Rowe, refutes this approach, arguing that the existence of a Supreme Being, who created people and hence cares for them, cannot be associated with evil. In fact, the presence of evil is a clear sign of the absence of a God. This paper seeks to take a position opposing to Law’s theory and prove that, despite the presence of evil, an omnibe nevolent God still exists. Law’s Evil God Challenge Law’s position is based on the principles of traditional theodicy, which reconciles a benevolent Deity with the presence of evil in the world (Law, 2011). Basically, he argues that this point of view mirrors a similar situation, in which the presence of good in the world could be reconciled with the existence of an evil God. In general, he believes that the same reasons that are used to prove the existence of theShow MoreRelatedStephen Law : Evil God Challenge1897 Words   |  8 PagesYourFirstName YourLastName University title Stephen Law: Evil-God-Challenge Introduction English philosopher Stephen Law is attached to Heythrop College of University of London as a senior lecturer. As an acknowledged atheist Stephen Law in his argument Evil-God Challenge challenged the theists. He said that evidence shows existence of Evil negates the idea of a Good-God. He pre-empts the arguments of theodices by this cryptic phrase â€Å"Evil-God Challenge†. By it the theists are asked if there is anyoneRead MoreUsing Proofs to Establish a Case for Gods Existence: McCloskey1374 Words   |  6 Pagesestablish a case for Gods existence I would first agree with McCloskey that we should not use â€Å"proofs† for Gods existence since â€Å"proofs† cannot be a 100% proof of Gods existence. But there are two arguments that can help explain the existence of God. The first is the best explanation approach which is the best explanation for the things we witness. Another classical argument is cumulative case approach, in this approach we use more than on e argument to make a case for Gods existence. Both of theseRead MoreLaws s Of The Good God1857 Words   |  8 PagesChallenge Accepted: Laws’s refutation of the â€Å"Good God† The English philosopher Stephen Law’s â€Å"The evil-god challenge† is a retort against the arguments raised in favour of the theistic belief that the world was created and is governed by an all knowing, supremely benevolent being. In order to refute the existence of the notion of a â€Å"good-god† as constructed in the arguments of theists, law has constructed his own hypothetical entity the â€Å"evil-god†. Law’s challenge stems from the logical and evidentiaryRead MoreCupid and Psyche: Myth or Folktale?1023 Words   |  5 Pagesthat there is a very fine line between the two. Myth can be defined as Â… to do with the gods and their actions, with creation, and with the general nature of the universe and of the earth. (Thompson, 106) On the other hand, some might say that folktale is defined as an anonymous story, that originates and circulates orally among a people (Harris and Platzner, 1054), or even that folktales involve a fairy god mother a nd dancing mice. However, there seems to be many similarities between the two conceptsRead MoreThematic Antithesis in Greek Tragedies Essay1358 Words   |  6 Pagesof thematic antithesis gives greater irony within Greek plays. The gender roles of female and male challenge the traditional stereotypical roles as observed in Greek society, and when those roles are crossed or blurred, the rational becomes irrational and the order of civilized Greek society itself falls into disorder. Euripides manipulates the characters, through contrast, to explore or challenge Greek society’s gender roles of female and male behavior through the stereotypes that are establishedRead MoreRealism and Naturalism in American Literature Stories Essay1493 Words   |  6 PagesThere are two dominate aspects of Realism (Social Rules Morality), and two dominate laws of Naturalism (Environment Determinism), that comes into play in the American Literature stories of Daisy Miller ,Frank James, and Jack London. According to one authoritative source (Britannica), realism in its basic form in Literature is a literary style in which the author describes the reality of persons (people) in detail to resemble their actions, emotions, and environment. The strengths and weaknessesRead MoreExistence of God Argumentative Paper2119 Words   |  9 Pages McCloskey There are many different types of arguments for the existence of God. With each argument there is a conception presented of God. For each argument there are different approaches. I will be focusing on the Cosmological and Teleological Arguments. Teleological Arguments are known to be arguments from divine, arguing from order in the universe to the existence of God (1).With the ordering of the universe, created by an intelligent being, they hold that it is orderedRead MoreIntelligent Design: Science or Faith Essay1640 Words   |  7 Pagesreligious argument of the existence of God that has proceeded for centuries. Studies document that, in 13th century, Thomas Aquinas outlines that, intelligence enables natural things to accomplish the best results while setting goals (Machen, 1991). The version formulated by Aquinas outline that, God is paramount important in providing direction to human beings thus, setting a clear evidence of nature of intelligent design. To some extent, the intelligent design outline God as supernatural but; extraterrestrialRead MoreThe Leaders Of Isis And Their Wicked And Vicious Slaughter Of Christians2376 Words   |  10 Pages They went on stoning Stephen as he called on the Lord and said, ‘Lord Jesus, receive my spirit!’ Then falling on his knees, he cried out with a loud voice, ‘Lord, do not hold this sin against them!† Having said this, he fell asleep.† Chapter 8 v erse 1 tells us that Saul was in hearty agreement with putting him to death. I want you to observe Stephen’s reaction to their vicious attack on him. Instead of seeking revenge, Stephen sought forgiveness and specifically asked God not to hold their sin againstRead MoreDo God Exist ?1960 Words   |  8 Pagesthe existence of God have been made over the years. Basically, these arguments are divided into two large groups i.e. logical and metaphysical. Actually, these arguments seek to prove that the existence of a being or having faith with at least one attribute that only God could have is logically necessary.    2. Believing and having faith in God will only resort to one thing—goodness.    3. Faith has something to do with one’s conception about God.    4. The existence of God remains a matter

My Job Experience Free Essays

Narrative Story: The first-person narrative is a literary technique wherein a story is narrated explicitly by one or more of the characters, who refers to himself or herself in the first person as â€Å"I†. As the narrator express his/her own feelings, thoughts, and experiences, the narrator’s character is revealed and the reader easily gains insight to the character. It also suspends information from the reader, and therefore widely used and effective to suspense and detective fiction. We will write a custom essay sample on My Job Experience or any similar topic only for you Order Now My Job Experience I woke up with a loud ringing near my head. A few days back, or years to be exact, I would have easily put it off and dose back again on my soft pillows. Ahh, but this day was different. It’s my first day in my first job ever. I could hear my head pounding. I never needed the alarm clock in the first place anyway, since I hardly slept last night. I’ve always seen myself as a ‘cool guy’ but the butterlies in my stomach speaks much differently about me, though. I headed for the shower and felt the water slap me from my semi-half-awake half-asleep state. Breakfast! But where are my stockings? Though contrary to real day-today experience, I wish mom was here. Well, better get off now or I might miss the bus. I surely want to make a good first impression and hope this will carry me all the way to promotions. I can hardly wait right now to experience the sweet smell of success! I stopped myself as I saw a man staring at me. Daydreaming may have been written all over my face. Secretly, I pinched myself for making a fool of me. As I came inside the building, I headed for the shop to which I was assigned. Across the shop, Darlene Shepherd subtly nodded at me, acknowledging approval of my early arrival. She was the one who chose me as a shop steward. Of course, I wanted to prove my worth. I love the dignity of work, but best of all, I love to walk around the corner and shop just a liiiitle bit of little-bitty things. My first day in my first job closed shopped with less adventure than I expected. This routine, except for the case of the missing stockings, went on for some time. Until last April, I saw my coworker named Daniels crying. Apparently, she was reprimanded. I came near her. At first it felt awkward hugging her a bit ( we hardly knew each other except for our first names). But when I did, her tears fell all the more, and I was completely taken over by her concern It was mid-afternoon, she said when her legs became awfully painful trying to stand all day. As the pain became almost unbearable, she tried to sit on one of the chairs placed near the customer’s area. Though shoppers were becoming fewer by the moment, Mr. Jarvis (our head supervisor) came in just as she sat down on the couch. Think about perfect wrong- timing indeed! I could understand where Mr. Jarvis is coming from, since it did look the way it should’nt look. But termination? I tried to calm myself down. Being angry might give me my fifteen minutes of victory but it could defeat my career-history. I brought the case to higher management. I carefully chose and weighed my words and to my amazement†¦ they listened and relented. From then on my co-workers would start looking for me to speak for them whenever they have concerns that they feel uneasy to face with the supervisor or manager. I found myself getting more and more involved in my co-employees’ work-related concerns. I have learned to listen and empathize with them, without getting emotionally involved myself whenever the outcome turns out unfavorable. I never did saw myself before as what I am becoming right now. Lately, we’ve been involved in community outreach to feed the homeless. It’s a pretty sight to see big-muscled Jack teaching math to 5 year- old Sam. I’ve seen how generous below-middle class workers could be with their spare time. I thought plenty spells generosity, but my co-workers proved them wrong. Before we started this project, I honestly had some doubts as to its success and sustainability. Before, it was just us, me and the union. I believe in the union’s contribution to the betterment of the worker’s welfare. And yet, the more we ask, the more we see things to complain about. There seems to be no end on what to grudge about. Of course, as we go along helping the needy, there would be more things to sort out, too. And more things to improve on. Yeah, life as a shop steward does have its many rewards. Shopping? Maybe. For now I see my storehouse rich with life’s lessons — being my brother’s keeper (whether one is rich or not-so-rich), standing up for what is just and striving for equality. As we wrap our things and clean up the mess after the feeding program, all around me, I see tired happy faces. Tired, but happy. Reference: 1. â€Å"First-Person Narrative†. From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/literary_styles How to cite My Job Experience, Papers

Economic Performance Analysis Singapore †Myassignmenthelp.Com

Question: Discuss About The Economic Performance Analysis Singapore? Answer: Introduction In the world economy, Singapore is considered as one of the fastest growing countries. This is one country the successfully devices free market policy. Government intervene only in areas where free armlet fails to work efficiently. The combi8nation of free market and government intervention together maintains a stable economic environment within the nation. Because of its small size, the country highly depends on the external sectors. Export has a notable contribution in national income. Present paper conducts a brief analysis of last ten years performance trend of Singaporean economy. Performance of some major economic indicators is evaluated. These include output performance, performance of labour market and finally stability in price level. Output performance analysis Real GDP, real GDP growth rate and per capita real GDP Other than gross domestic product (GDP) there is no better indicators that can trace overall output performance under a single measure. GDP is a composite measure that represents values of goods and services produced in an economy in the accounting year. GDP expresses these values in monetary terms. In order to know monetary values either the market prices of the ongoing year or market values of a fixed year is considered. GDP computed using fixed years market value is termed as real GDP (Mankiw, 2014).. Fixation of market price helps to offset the inflationary impact and thus presents the true picture of output in the economy. Percentage change in GDP is known as growth in output, which actually represent economic growth rate. Growth in real GDP is mostly used to capture real economic growth. Other than income and output, an important indicator of living standard of people in the economy is their average income. Average income is expressed as per capita GDP. Per capita GDP is comput ed by total national income by total population (Parente Prescott, 2015). Real GDP, growth in real GDP and per capita real GDP all are thus important for tracing output performance. Performance trend in Singapore Figure 1: GDP in Singapore (Source: tradingeconomics.com) Figure 2: Real GDP growth rate in Singapore (Source: data.worldbank.org) Figure 3: Per capita real GDP in Singapore (Source: data.worldbank.org) Real GDP in Singapore shows a progressive trend in the last ten years. The economy accounts a increase in GDP from 179.98 USD billion to 296.97 USD billion in 2016. Highest GDP in the last ten years is accounted in 2014, the GDP being 308.14 UDD billion. The boost in GDP is resulted from the nation initiatives to quickly recover from financial crisis took place in 2008. Singapore accounts nearly 0.48% of world GDP (Siddiqui, 2016). In terms of real GDP growth rate, Singapore stands as an instance to world economy, Growth rate though tumbled at times global recession in 2008 it quickly regained is growth trend. External sector in Singapore helps the economy a lot in becoming worlds fastest growing economy. Export of refined oil and electronic equipment are two important pillars of outstanding economic growth. This open economy with a business friendly environment attracts both foreign direct and portfolio investments. With rising GDP and more or less stable population, the per capita GDP in Singapore is either stable or growing overtime. The last recorded per capita income in Singapore in 2016 is 52600.60 US dollars (Tan Ho, 2015). Average income in Singapore is nearly 417 percent of the average recorded for the world. Government measure to boost output performance Government has two direct tool of affecting output either directly or indirectly. The direct policies of government to expand output of the nation are fiscal policy and monetary policy. Expansionary fiscal policy and ease monetary policy are appropriate policy choice of government while boosting overall output in the economy. Expansionary fiscal policy Increasing government expenditure is one way to increase nation GDP. Singaporean government increases its expenditure different fields. Infrastructure of an economy is important for attracting business investment and make progress in industrial development. In order to increase infrastructural expenditure government recently launches Resilience package (Tang, Liu Cheung, 2013). In Singapore, production driven growth is used as a tool of economic growth. To increase productivity investment has been made in education and training program. Expansionary Monetary Policy This includes increasing the supply of money in the economy. Money supply in Singapore has been increased with open market operation (Gallo, Hann Li, 2016). Increased money supply means increase in investible fund. When investment rises, then production in the economy rises and so is the output. Labour market analysis Unemployment trend based on unemployment rates The employment rate of Singapore based on seasonally adjusted stood 2.1 percent for the quarter ending June 2016. The rate of unemployment remained at the highest level ever since the end of December. In three months to June, the unemployment rate of Singapore fell down for inhabitants to 3.1 percent and for non-residents it fell down to 3.3 percent. In the first quarter of the year 2016 approximately three thousand five hundred workers were laid off (Pigou, 2013). The fall during the quarter is considered as broad based throughout the industries. The sum of employment declined to 7500, which is subordinate to the declining rate of 9400 in the previous quarter. The unemployment rate in Singapore averaged 2.45 percent from 2000 to 2106. Ever since the quarter of December 2010, the rate of unemployment in Singapore remained highest. Figure4: Unemployment trend in Singapore Source: (tradingeconomics.com) Unemployment and types of unemployment in an economy It is not possible to maintain a full employment condition in the economy. Some members in the labour market are unable to find jobs at the prevailing wage. This is captured by the rate of unemployment in the economy. There are a number of reasons leading to incidence of unemployment in the economy. Unemployment experienced because of some structural change is termed as structural unemployment. Unemployment due to seasonal factor is known as seasonal unemployment. Sometimes labourers in the economy are unemployed because of lack of technical skills resulting in technical unemployment. Another type of unemployment dominating in the economy is frictional unemployment (Keynes, 2016). Types of unemployment in the economy of Singapore: There are three most common types of unemployment in Singapore which are as follows cyclical, structural and frictional unemployment. Cyclical Unemployment: Cyclical unemployment in Singapore is majorly responsible for unemployment because Singapore is depended on the external sector for economic expansion (Georgellis, 2015). The overseas demand for Singapore electronic goods have fallen and companies manufacturing such goods faces lower demand. This forces firms to lower their cost of production by reducing the output and employment. Structural Unemployment: Globalization resulted in huge restructuring of Singapore which led to structural unemployment. It has changed to capital intensive from labour intensive economy and workers are required different skills (Taussig, 2013). Workforce with insufficient training to shift in different industry is laid off which results in structural unemployment. Frictional Unemployment: Frictional unemployment in Singapore happens because of the time consumed by citizens to locate new employment when they look for change or search another job (Georgellis, 2015). The formation and demolition of job results in time lag for those in search of employment or companies searching employees and this additionally results in frictional unemployment. Measures to achieve full employment To reinforce the domestic workers under the age of 40 looking for employment in the areas for professional, executives and technicians for being laid off for more than six months will be considered under the government scheme of career support programme (Frank et al., 2015). In an effort to achieve full employment the Singapore government has adopted policies to lower the frictional unemployment by introducing the schemes of Community Development Council (CDC). Furthermore, the workforce development agency offers employment search service and labour market information to assist the strong networking of companies. Price Level Analysis Description of inflation trend The CPI in Singapore rose by 0.5 percent in respect of the increase of 1.4 percent in the earlier month with below market census of 0.7 percent increase. The price for food and transport increased in the previous month and the cost housing declined. The prices for domestic durables rose at slower rate by 0.7 percent because of 1.4 percent in the supply of household service and supply (Sloman et al., 2013). The cost for health and care rose in the earlier month to 2.5 percent and was especially driven by 3.4 rise in medical service. Meanwhile, the price for miscellaneous goods and services rebounded to 0.2 percent from 0.1 percent which was particularly driven by 0.7 increase in the consumption of tobacco and alcohol. There was a 4.0 percent rise in the personal effects and 1.7 percent increase in miscellaneous expenses. Prices of food rose by 1.4 percent after an increase of 1.5 in the earlier month (Bernanke et al., 2015). The core consumer prices after excluding the cost of accommo dation and road transport increased by 1.5 percent following a rise of 1.6 in the month of May. Figure5: Inflation rate of Singapore Source: (tradingeconomics.com) Definition of inflation and typical causes of inflation Inflation is known as the percentage in values regarding the Wholesale Price Index on yearly basis. It measures the change in price of goods and service in a year (Argy Nevile, 2016). Causes of inflation Inflation is caused due to the demand and supply side of the economy. Demand-Pull Inflation: Demand pull inflation takes place due to the rising aggregate demand at an unsustainable rate leading to increase in the force scarce resources with positive gap of output (Ormerod et al., 2013). This inflation takes place when there is a rise in cost of capital due to rise in exchange rate and reduces the foreign price of domestic export . Cost-push inflation: Cost push inflation takes place because companies respond to the increasing cost by raising the cost to protect their profit margin. Cost push inflation takes place because of the increase in the cost of raw materials and other components. Furthermore, another reason for cost push inflation is the increasing cost of labour due to the increase in the wages. Causes of inflation in Singapore In Singapore, cost push inflation forms the most important causes of inflation. As the economy of Singapore is a small and open with little natural resources, it is largely reliant on the imports from other nations such as Malaysia or China and the export expenditure is three times more than the Singapores GDP (Ormerod et al., 2013). The inflation of Singapore is comprises of import inputs that pose the threat in depreciation of the Singapore dollar. This means that when the rate of inflation is higher in other nations, Singapore will bear greater cost of import that ultimately results in cost-push inflation. Government measures to attain stable price To achieve stable price and threat of inflation, Singapore government makes the use of polices to control the rate of exchange. The government uses such policy to keep the inflation cost at lower rate. The Singapore government uses foreign currency reserves to purchase domestic currency. These policies help in keeping the import price less expensive and lowering the effect of higher imports inflation. To reduce the demand-pull inflation Singapore government adopts polices of improving the workforce through quality development program. Conclusion The analysis made above shows a picture of economic progress in Singapore. All the Output indicators such as real GDP, Per capita real GDP, and growth in real GDP all are improving overtime in the economy. In addition, the economy successfully achieves its target of full employment and price level stability. Unemployment remains lower overtime with maintaining a moderate or low inflation rate. Instead of using the tool of direct money supply, the policy of exchange rate control is more appropriate in Singapore. Government designs suitable policies keeping in mind particular characteristic of the economy and attain highest level of success as indicated by different performance indicators. References Argy, V. E., Nevile, J. (Eds.). (2016).Inflation and Unemployment: Theory, Experience and Policy Making. Routledge. Bernanke, B., Antonovics, K. and Frank, R., 2015.Principles of macroeconomics. McGraw-Hill Higher Education. Data.worldbank.org. Retrieved 2 August 2017, from https://data.worldbank.org/country/singapore. Frank, R. H., Bernanke, B. S., LUI, H. K. (2015).Principles of economics. McGraw-Hill Asia. Gallo, L. A., Hann, R. N., Li, C. (2016). Aggregate earnings surprises, monetary policy, and stock returns.Journal of Accounting and Economics,62(1), 103-120. Georgellis, Y. (2015, January). Regional unemployment and employee organizational commitment. InAcademy of Management Proceedings(Vol. 2015, No. 1, p. 12430). Academy of Management. Keynes, J. M. (2016).General theory of employment, interest and money. Atlantic Publishers Dist. Mankiw, N. G. (2014).Principles of macroeconomics. Cengage Learning. Ormerod, P., Rosewell, B., Phelps, P. (2013). Inflation/unemployment regimes and the instability of the Phillips curve.Applied Economics,45(12), 1519-1531. Parente, S. L., Prescott, E. C. (2015) Parente, S. L., Prescott, E. C. (2015). Introduction to Quantitative Macroeconomic Theory. Pigou, A. C. (2013).Theory of unemployment. Routledge. Siddiqui, K. (2016). A study of Singapore as a developmental state. InChinese Global Production Networks in ASEAN(pp. 157-188). Springer International Publishing. Sloman, J., Norris, K., Garrett, D. (2013).Principles of economics. Pearson Higher Education AU. Tan, B. S., Ho, Y. K. (2015). Singapore as an accountancy hub-a Porter's Diamond perspective.International Journal of Business Competition and Growth,4(1-2), 44-56. Tang, H. C., Liu, P., Cheung, E. C. (2013). Changing impact of fiscal policy on selected ASEAN countries.Journal of Asian Economics,24, 103-116. Taussig, F. W. (2013).Principles of economics(Vol. 2). Cosimo, Inc.. Tradingeconomics.com. Retrieved 2 August 2017, from https://tradingeconomics.com/singapore/labor-force-participation-rate

Relationship Value in Business Markets

Abstract The realm of marketing is slowly shifting its focus from the former product centric paradigm to a base that is taking care of the value needs of the customers. The major aim of the relationship marketing is maintaining the relationship between the business and the company to its immediate micro environment.Advertising We will write a custom critical writing sample on Relationship Value in Business Markets specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More These include the suppliers, intermediaries in the market, the public and the most important factor, the customers. When this is maintained, there should be prior creation of customer loyalty. Value is a very important concept in relationship marketing. The ability of a given company to provide the best value to its customers is a critical and very successful strategy in business competition. The concept of value has led many companies to try and find out ways in which they can get the ri ght competitive advantage for their customers. When value is added to a certain product, the quality of the product s consequently improved and customer is achieved and therefore loyalty gained. With customer satisfaction, there is subsequent customer loyalty which is achieved. This paper seeks to review â€Å"Relationship Value in Business Markets: Development of a Measurement Scale† by Eggert and Ulaga and seek to establish the authenticity of their research. Introduction The paper â€Å"Relationship Value in Business Markets: Development of a Measurement Scale†, checks on the underlying foundations of relationship value in marketing and also outlines some of the main dimensions of the relationship values. The author of the article has gone ahead to explain some of the factors that lead to the conceptualization of relationship value by different people. To get the real way in which his conceptualization happens, the author has included a survey. The data in the surve y is collected from various purchasing managers from a variety of organizations and develops a scaling process and ways in which to undertake future research in the field.Advertising Looking for critical writing on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Strategic marketing Marketing strategy is more about customer satisfaction in a way that the objectives of the organization get to be achieved. If companies were to focus more on the needs of their customers, there is a greater likelihood that the organizations will get what they require to achieve in the market place (Bollen, 1989). According to the title of the article, â€Å"Relationship Value in Business Markets: Development of a Measurement Scale†, there is focus on the concept of customer satisfaction in various ways. The paper is about the conceptualization of the concept of relationship value. This conceptualization is then tested using data collect ed for a survey in order to develop a scale process and also a purification process for the conceptualized idea. Development of the relationship value is thus a form or part of the more diverse marketing strategy which aims at improving the condition of the customer with a farfetched objective of achieving the goals that have been set by the company. Marketing strategy entails focus by the organization on a certain action that will lead to increased profitability through more sales and extra dominance in the market niche which is being targeted by that organization. It combines all the goals of a certain organization and decides on how the goals will be achieved of a certain time period. Relationship value is a strategy that aims at strengthening the ties between a certain organization and its customers through improving the value of the products and relations to the customer to the satisfaction of that customer. Organizational effectiveness concept entails the effectiveness of a pa rticular organization in achieving its objectives. In order to increase the effectiveness of an organization, companies need to create competitive advantages that are sustainable with a proper alignment of the right business and marketing strategies. In the article, the author aligns himself to the concept of organizational effectiveness and the realm of strategic marketing by taking into consideration one of the key underlying factors which has become a bone of contention in today’s world of marketing, the relationship value. This is a proper choice of subject considering that it is one of the key factors that decide whether customer satisfaction has been achieved and also whether the organization will be able to earn customer loyalty from the mentioned and hopefully satisfied customers. Literature review analysis In this article the author has received the concept of value from the different perspectives that it can assume. Value, in the view of marketing exchange, enhances the urge to go on with a certain type of exchange in the market. Value is therefore twofold and it affects both the customer and the seller. The seller is interested in the value of the customer to his business and also the value that he gives to the customer so as to be able to maintain that customer.Advertising We will write a custom critical writing sample on Relationship Value in Business Markets specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The author has gone ahead to discuss some of the characteristics that recur in the concept of value; the value of the customer is a concept that is subjective, in a conceptual manner, value is a tradeoff between the benefits that can be realized and the sacrifices that are made, both the sacrifices and the benefits have more than one phases, and that the conceptions of value and competition are relative. According to the article, the author has criticized the current day trend in taking much concern on issues mostly related to products as opposed to issues related to the value of the customer. It is in this place that he claims that development should consider the value of the customer from the relationship marketing viewpoint. This is the main point behind relationship value. The author has defined the concept of relationship value in accordance with different authors’ perspectives. According to Anderson et al, (1993, 75), value is â€Å"â€Å"the apparent worth in financial units of that set of economic, technological, service, and also the social benefits established by a client firm in swap over for the price remunerated for a produce offering, taking into contemplation the accessible substitute suppliers’, their offerings and their likely prices†. According to Wilson and Jantaria (1995, 61), there is a cross examination of value creation in supplier and buyer relationships. In their research, there is an economic, behavioral and strategic categorizati on of value which offers the 3-D approach. They have agreed that it is hard to empirically assess the value concept though there is a joint conclusion that the concept of relationship value is problematic and cannot be simply ignored. According to Hogan (2001, 342), expected relationship value, is the net worth of the perceivable benefits which can be derived during the existence period of a relationship. In all the above mentioned descriptions of the term relationship value from the different authors, it can be established that there has been so little empirical research ion the concept of relationship value. Gwinner et al (1998, 110), managed to come up with three categories which exemplified the customers’ perspectives of the relational benefits. These are special treatment, social benefits and confidence. In this article, has summarized the various dimensions found in the realm of relationship value. He has grouped them into benefits dimensions and sacrifices dimensions. This has been as a result of the data collection done in the research. There is also a slight inclusion of marketing variables. In the discussions on the various dimensions, the author of the article has included a summary of previous research which had been done on some dimensions and conceptualizations of the relationship value. In his review the author has addressed the seven dimensions which he got from his analysis in the literature review. Following the flow of the paper up to this area, it follows that the author was very keen in his literature review and that his discussions were completely dissected to deliver the purpose of the research. The literature can therefore be said to be properly up to date and the requirements of a good review have been met.Advertising Looking for critical writing on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Data collection methods The author used a primary method of data collection where he sourced his data from a survey by distributing a number of questionnaires to a group of purchasing managers. After dissemination and collection of the questionnaires, he was able to have a total of 207 questionnaires which he would get usable data from. His questionnaires were based on a wide range of industries like food, metal products, chemicals, machinery and equipment, plastic products, office equipment and so on. Amongst the respondent firms, there was a diverse employment capacity with where some industries had over five hundred employees, some had between fifty and five hundred and a small group employed less than fifty people. The loyalty of the customers was based on the number of years that they had been in a certain company. Some lasted for more than fifteen years and the rest ranged from 10-15, 5-10 and less than 2 years as buyers in a single company. There also was a range of the produ cts and services that were offered by the companies. They ranged from raw materials, services, sub-contracting, manufacturing materials and MRO. In structuring his questionnaire, the author divided into three parts which sought to compare the relationships between the buyers and the suppliers. Some other part of the questionnaire sought to get the relationship value dimensions that were in line with the dimensions discussed in the literature review. In the comparison the author used a rating scale foe ease of data analysis. The last part of the questionnaire required a personal description of the buyers, the suppliers and their relationships. This was highly based on the knowledge of the dimensions under investigation (Dwyer, 1999). Results analysis The author employed the use of various mathematical models to construct the measurement scales and accordingly tabulated the results as they happened. Most of the models included mathematical calculations which gave results to be used in the discussion thereafter (Bollen, 1989). Discussion of results In discussing the results of his research, the author alienated himself from the traditional way where value perception is described in an abstract formulation. Such abstract formulations are statements like, â€Å"the supplier relationship in this firm has a high value†. This is a perception that has less validity and little reliability. In this article, the author has described the relation value as a construct that is high order, multi dimensional and a formative one. According to the literature review put forward by the author, he was able to identify two categories of dimensions; five benefits and two sacrifice dimensions. The benefits dimensions include, product related, service related, suppliers’ knowledge related, social related and those that are related to the ability of the supplier to improve the time required to market. Sacrifice dimensions are costs of process and pride. The variety of the industries that were used in the survey revealed the various dimensions that different stakeholders choose to adhere to in their dimension choice and value of the relationship. Limitations The author of the article has outlined all the limitations of his research in a clear and concise manner. This is a good way of indicating the authenticity of his research considering that not all pieces of research are perfect. He has also gone ahead to indicate the directions that should be taken for further research in this field. Strengths and weaknesses of the article This article can be dissected into various parts which can help us to get the strong points and the weak points of the paper. The arrangement of the paper has adhered to the proper research format. The abstract of the paper has explained the reason behind the research. It has introduced the flow of the paper and the contents of the preceding chapters in the article. In the introduction, the author has a good hint on the backgrou nd of the problem. There is a clear explanation of the past research and the methods that were used to explain the reasoning behind relationship value in the past. From this knowledge, the author has introduced his concept of empirical analysis. The literature review is also concise and previous literature on the relationship value has been put into consideration. The paper has also followed an organized academic writing style. The author employed the use of the Harvard style of citation and referencing. This is evident from the in text citations that are in the body of the paper. The use of the authors’ name, year of publication and the page number where applicable is a clear indicator of the Harvard referencing system. The reference list at the end of the document is also correctly placed to adhere to the system. In the course of the paper, the author has followed the problem statement and definition. At the beginning of the paper, the author started with an abstract that s ought to define the conceptualization of the relationship value in the world of marketing. In this realm, the author sated to include about 200 purchasing managers in his research survey. This is followed by a concise introduction to the topic immediately after. As planned, it is evident from the paper that the research was done and the data which was gotten from the research was tabulated as required so as to give the reader a clear picture of the relationships. The analysis of the data after the research has been done using mathematical models which have helped the researcher to come up with the measurement scales as stated in the problem statement. This is therefore a clear indication of the fact that the author was cautious in following the statement of the problem as defined and to the letter. There is a proper analysis and conclusion to the article in that they have adhered to the problem statement. The author has analyzed the data collected data clearly. According to the titl e of the paper and the statement of the problem as in the beginning parts of the article, there was supposed to be focus on developing a measurement scale that can be used to quantify the relationship value in marketing. This has been discussed throughout the paper and a survey done to conceptualize the concept. The conclusion of the paper has indicated clearly how the thesis of the paper was reached at and has also been supported by a proper reference to the survey and the results of the survey. Contribution to the wider area of knowledge in strategic marketing This point can be approached in a variety of ways. Most importantly is for a person to have the adequate knowledge required to analyze strategic marketing in relation to relationship value. According to common definitions, strategic marketing is mainly concerned with how a company gets some competitive advantage over its competitors. In this realm the company takes into consideration factors that will lead to customer satisf action as well as the final gain of attaining the objectives of the company. The article under review only concentrated on one area of customer satisfaction which is the relationship value. Relationship value is a part of the greater strategic marketing which has some other core cornerstones. In the realm of strategic marketing, there has to be consideration of the market drivers which include among others the PEST factors; â€Å"political, economic, social and technological factors†. At the core of the marketing strategy, there are other factors involved like impact of the market drivers, status of the strategic windows, competition, and the stage of the company in the lifecycle, and the skills and assets possessed by the market. Looking at these diverse factors and issues related to strategic marketing, the article only contributed to an area of strategic marketing. Nature of the article The article has been presented in a format that can be understood by a standard graduat e level reader. The language command of the author is excellent and does not appear to have common and irresponsibly placed grammatical errors. In presenting his results the author has properly tabulated all the relevant information such that it simplifies understandability to the reader. The author has also included diagrams in his work. These are essential components of a research paper as graphical figures are simpler to understand. The arrangement of the paper is also clear. This has been enhanced by placement of appendices at the end of the document. The appendices have been correctly referenced in the document body making the reader not to encounter any confusion. Conclusion This article can be categorized as a good research work which can benefit both the academic personnel and practitioners in general. At the academic level, students can use the article as a sample to writing good research papers and the practitioners can apply it in their field of business to reinforce thei r relationship with their customers. References Anderson, et al. (1995) â€Å"Capturing the Value of Supplementary Services†. Harvard Business Review. January-February: 75-83. Bollen, K. (1989) Structural Equations with Latent Variables. John Wiley Sons, New York. Dwyer, F. (1999). Business Marketing: Connecting Strategy, Relationships, and Learning, Irwin/Mc Graw Hill, Boston, MA. Gwinner, K. et al. (1998) â€Å"Relationship Benefits in Service Industries: the Customer’s Perspective†. Journal of the Academy of Marketing Science 26(2): 101-114. Hogan, E. (2001) â€Å"Expected Relationship Value: A Construct, a Methodology for Measurement, and a Modeling Technique†, Industrial Marketing Management, 30 (4), 339-351. Wilson, T. and Jantrania, S. (1995) â€Å"Understanding the Value of a Relationship.† Asia-Australia Marketing Journal: 2 (1): 55-66. This critical writing on Relationship Value in Business Markets was written and submitted by user Kali Kirk to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

The Poem Conjoined by Judith Minty †English Essay

The Poem Conjoined by Judith Minty – English Essay Free Online Research Papers The Poem â€Å"Conjoined† by Judith Minty English Essay Many read poems and wonder what they mean. Many have trouble just trying to see what the Poet meant with their examples. Some never understand what is trying to be brought out from the words placed down in writing for all to read. This poem does not have that problem with its communicating exactly what it is about. A troubling piece of writing that goes around in circles with definitions and analogies of a very unhappy union of two people is what this is. Most people would be happy in their marriages and write uplifting and inspired love ballads. This poem is clearly an example of a marriage gone wrong. Agony over the joining of two people in marriage is the deep underlying theme. The whole poem by Judith Minty is one huge analogy of an unhappy marriage. In the very first line, the onion is called a monster. It is two onions only â€Å"joined by a transparent skin.† (2) The skin is the joining of marriage of the two onions. The deformity of the two onions â€Å"each half-round, then flat and deformed where it pressed and grew together†(3-4) puts a slight tilt on the joining. Where the two onions come into contact with each other they have warped and deformed. This transparent skin has held and warped the two onions into the monster of one union. The Chinese Siamese twins used are another example of the deformity of marriage. â€Å"Or like those freaks, Chang and Eng, twins joined at the chest by skin and muscle, doomed† (7-8). This line does a great job describing the agony and pain of being joined physically with someone. These twins go though life never alone with one moment of peace. To feel the agitation of knowing they can never be separated from another is beyond the comprehension of most people. Such a permanent joining of two uniquely different beings drives the image of suffering into the mind. The deformed calf with the two heads from the result of a birth defect also shows another example of marriage. â€Å"An accident, like the two-headed calf rooted in one body, fighting to suck at its mother’s teats;† (5-6) shows such deep sorrow and anguish. The use of such a pitiful creature as an example again reaches inside to dig out the feelings of remorse and pity. A more perfect case scenario for a bad marriage could not be found. The three examples of bad deformed unions lead into the third stanza where the real story of the unhappy marriage becomes known. The woman feels the man moving around in the house below her. She knows he can sense her moves. â€Å"Do you feel the skin that binds us together as we move, heavy in this house?†(10-11) is another reference of two combined into one. They slink around on different levels of their home as if hiding from one another, but know exactly where the other is at all times. This shows that they are connected under the skin by their marriage just like the onion example. They are unable to be separated just like the twins example. Such anguish is felt in these words: â€Å"To sever the muscle could free one, but might kill the other.†(12-13) The reference of being cut apart and separating the two is brought out so plainly and so skillfully that feelings of remorse surface for the pair. Escape is out of the question as the couple is connected. This escape though has entered into mind even with the cost of the life of the other member. â€Å"We cannot escape each other.† (15) The perfect ending for this dreary poem. It is the logical conclusion and finalizes the whole assumption of this poem. The two becoming one in matrimony, forever joined now under the skin. The finality of the whole poem of the two becoming one â€Å"Conjoined† entity brings such gloom over the reader. There is nothing to be done, as there is no escape. Many poems about marriage are full of life and happiness, but this one has a cloud of gloom and doom hanging over it. It is a sad piece of artwork that shows the unhappy side of a bad marriage. Pity and remorse are two emotions that come to the surface when reading. A short and compact poem that has many emotions packed in very tightly. It forces thoughts and revisions to come into mind. Research Papers on The Poem â€Å"Conjoined† by Judith Minty - English EssayMind TravelHonest Iagos Truth through DeceptionPersonal Experience with Teen PregnancyInfluences of Socio-Economic Status of Married MalesMarketing of Lifeboy Soap A Unilever ProductThe Masque of the Red Death Room meaningsBook Review on The Autobiography of Malcolm XAnalysis Of A Cosmetics AdvertisementTrailblazing by Eric AndersonHip-Hop is Art

Research, Evaluation & Policy Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Research, Evaluation & Policy Analysis - Essay Example Prior to Ryan's execution the states of New South Wales and Queensland had brought the practice to an end. Walton (2003) indicates that death penalty had been part of the Australian legal system since the settlement by British in the 19th century. Crimes which had the potential of carrying capital punishment included forgery, burglary, stealing of sheep, sexual assault, manslaughter and murder as well as robbery with violence. Other crimes included piracy, treason and arson of naval dockyards. The death sentences were conducted under Aboriginal customary law through sorcery or directly. The victims were denied mortuary rites. The initial executions were conducted when the authorities then in Australia did hanging of mutineers of the Batavia. 12 Since its abolishment, death penalty has been replaced by life imprisonment as the maximum applicable punishment. Is it sufficient for as punishment for such crimes Does it help combat the crimes that were punishable by dearth sentence 13. According to Law Reform Commission of Western Australia (2003), hangings were done at several places including the site of the committed offense. In 1888, the Imperial Convict Establishment at Fremantle used employed for all hangings in the state.

Reasons of Zaras Success Driving Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

Reasons of Zaras Success Driving - Essay Example Zara’s success is mainly the result of their supply chain innovation, which means that unlike their competitors who often have to forecast the season’s fashion trends and then wait another five months to sell them, Zara can deliver new styles and fashions in three to six weeks. This supply chain innovation was essential as the industry was prone to risks in mismatches of supply and demand, and this would result in disruption, longer waiting times and smaller margins of error (Kleindorfer 2004). To negate these effects Zara produces 50% of its products in-house, instead of outsourcing all manufacturing and production related processes. This has largely been made possible by Zara’s background, as Zara started life as a manufacturer. When Zara, as a manufacturer decided to compete in the retail sector, they became a retailer with manufacturing capacity (AI 2004). Instead of getting rid of this capacity, Zara identified this as an opportunity. This capacity also means that Zara is in possession of 18 manufacturing plants that are responsible for producing their fashion garments (AI 2004). Whilst other retailers are outsourcing to Asia and the Far East, Zara has integrated their manufacturing and retail aspects to minimise the uncertainties associated wit h long lead times, and predicting fashion trends months in advance. By outsourcing to outside the European continent or their home countries, Zara’s competitors are also introducing delays and errors in their business, as incorrect fashion predictions, could result in a massive loss of profits through dozens of unsold clothing. Clothing also needs to be stored, and as their competitors store large quantities, they have to store them in warehouses which add additional costs on the organisation. The risks of storing clothes in warehouses were recently highlighted by two separate cases in the media. In one case, fire gutted a warehouse used to store clothing for Primark and other retailers, and in another separate case, the European Union (EU) had placed quotas on clothing coming from China, which is were most retailers had outsourced their manufacturing and production.  Ã‚  

Mergers and Acquisitions Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Mergers and Acquisitions - Essay Example The potential merger was based upon the assumption that this merger will actually result into an over $1 billion in terms of cost savings as well as revenue increase for the American Airways.1 The formal process of merger and acquisition started during the start of 2013 and it was believed that this merger actually resulted into the creation of the largest airline in the world. The overall deal was finalized in December 2013 and American Airways formally acquired the firm This paper will discuss and explore the reasons behind this merger, the circumstances which actually led to the merger, the positive as well as negative impacts of the merger besides discussing whether the HR practices of the firm were modified to ensure that the overall outcomes of the merger and acquisition were achieved. 9/11 was one of the key events in the history of American airline industry as for the first time, airplanes were used weapons. Strong security concerns resulted into sharp decline in the passenger traffic and loss of revenue. (Rhoades & Waguespack Jr, 2004). Apart from this, the economic events which occurred after 2007 also resulted into an strong decline the profitability as well as the revenue of the major airlines in the industry. Owing to these factors, American Airline filed chapter 11 bankruptcy ad sought protection against the same. As a result of the Chapter 11 Bankruptcy protection, it was considered that the American Airlines may suitably merge with other airline in order to come out of the bankruptcy and pay back to its creditors. As such one of the reasons for entering into this merger and acquisition was to avoid the complete bankruptcy and find suitable buyer who can ensure that the creditors are paid back. As per the agreement, 72% of the shares of the American airli ne were acquired by US Airways and the remaining 28% were held by the existing shareholders of the firm. Another important reason for the merger was the cost

The Importance Of Being Ernest Character Analysis English Literature Essay

The Importance Of Being Ernest Character Analysis English Literature Essay The way Wilde characterized the characters in this play, chiefly Jack Worthing, displays these people as uptight and serious that wouldnt put a toe out of line. This initial characterization of Jack would seem to the audience a character that should belong in a drama, but Wilde added to Jack the extra quirk of being found in a handbag, and thus not knowing who his actual parents. Wilde did this first display and to ridicule the Victorian dogma stressing normalcy and their frowning upon that which, seems to display a contempt for the ordinary decencies of family lifeà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ (Lady Bracknell, Act I, pg. 134). Wilde uses the circumstances of Jacks abandonment to symbolize both Jacks ambiguous social status throughout the play and to emphasize his mobility within social circles, whether that is up or down. The handbag that baby Jack is perfectly used to symbolize this ambiguity, for this bag was has all the trademarks of normalcy: Thus, this commonplace container contains a baby of uncommon origin. There is no coincidence that this ordinary handbag/baby container is discovered in a cloakroom, for these pieces of apparel can all be worn to conceal ones true form, face, or identity. The Victoria Station has prevalence to this play as well. The western trail, including the Brighton line, led to the wealthier parts of London while the eastern road led to places like Chatham and Dover, which were more impoverished. Wilde uses the fact that the baby Jack is at the intersection of these two lines to literally put him in an identity crisis. Does he come from a poor common family or a rich aristocratic one? Lady Bracknell chose to look on the negative side and judge him as common until proven noble (indecently exposing Wildes contempt for the aristocratic propriety and downright snobbishness). There is however another, more positive way to interpret his discovery at Victoria Station. Trains are all about moving people to the places where they need to be. Wilde uses Jacks presence at Victoria Station to be a comment on his social status, suggesting that he has great social mobility; that he may have success in climbing up the social ladder to a prestigious position. This is foreshadowed by the fact that hes found specifically on the Brighton line, the road that leads to the richer parts of town. And indeed the story of  Earnest  is about Jacks social advancement. In fact, Wilde reveals at the end that Jack is a true member of the aristocracy as part of the Moncrieff family, which makes him a worthy husband for another aristocrat, Gwendolen. So the scene of Jacks orphaning contains aspects, like the ordinary handbag and the cloakroom, to show that he may seem common, but with the hint of an aristocratic background, through which Wilde reveals Jacks true social identity. The most prevalent reason the characters in  The Importance of Being Earnest lie is to get out of social or familial duties, to instead do something more enjoyable. Not surprisingly, only a few characters hold honesty in high regard. However, the viewer can see how hard it is for Wildes characters to set things straight once theyve lied about them. As the situation gets increasingly complicated, Wilde must weave more complex lies for his character to get out of the tangles of their previous lies. Perhaps the most striking thing is that none of the characters ever shows true remorse or guilt about lying. The first examples of lying are the two imaginary people created by Jack and Algernon, which Wilde uses to symbolize the empty promises or deceit of the Victorian era. Not only is the character Ernest anything but earnest for the majority of the play, but he also doesnt even really exist! This makes Jacks creation of him doubly deceitful. Bunbury sounds as ridiculous and fictional a s he actually is. Both of these figments of fantasy allow Jack and Algernon to live a lie; so as to seem as if they uphold these high moral standards, while in reality are gallivanting around without suffering any repercussions. Jack takes it a bit farther since he actually impersonates his so-called good-for-nothing brother. Even when Jack and Algernon are caught in their lies, they never suffer any real punishment. That they can both kill off their imaginary alter egos or friends without much to-do, shows Victorian societys real values; the Victorian era did not value honesty, responsibility, or compassion for the under-privileged (neither Lady Bracknell or Algernon exhibit much pity for Bunbury when he dies), but only style, money, and aristocracy. It is appropriate that the nonexistent characters of Ernest and Bunbury show how shallow are the Victorians real concerns. It seems that Wildes main point in  The Importance of Being Earnest  is to criticize Victorian society by showing how shallow and hypocritical is it. What do aristocrats do all day? Sit around, drinking tea, taking shallow gossip, and even gallivanting around under false pretence. What does Lady Bracknell want to see in Jack, her future son-in-law? Money, property, stylishness, and an aristocratic name. She cares little for his character. As the play goes on and we see just how shallow everyones desires are, and we tend to laugh. Wilde does not allow his tone to get too heavy or dark. Instead, we find the characters in  The Importance of Being Ernest  amusing.

Marcus Tullius Cicero :: Ancient Rome Roman History

Marcus Tullius Cicero "We are in bondage to the law in order that we may be set free" Marcus Tullius Cicero came into philosophical fame during the Roman Republic era. At a very young age, Cicero, who came from a modest home, made it his ambition to hold a high political position in Rome. Unfortunately, his middle class ancestry restricted his ability in achieving his goals. As a result he sought a military position to gain authority. Cicero proved to be an ineffective soldier, which gradually lead him to select a career in law. In 63 B.C. he moved up in the Roman oligarchy by acquainting himself with many politicians who aided him in obtaining the title of "consul", the highest Roman office. In three years an effective rebel occurred against the Republic from the First Triumvirate of Julius Caesar, Pompey and Crassus. They seized control of the Senate and enforced the ideals of the Roman Empire. Cicero was meant to be included because of his influence, but he clung to the old Republic ideals, which lead to his exile, and he was forbidden to take part in politics. Dur ing his exile, Cicero furthered his studies in philosophy for a year. Cicero still dreamed of the reincarnation of the old Republic, and wrote about the republic and on laws. During this time, it is most likely that the above quote was uttered. Philosophy and jurisprudence were directly related in Cicero's studies. His studies included his despise of the Roman lifestyle, which consisted of low morals and disrespect for life. This lifestyle built the foundation for the laws that were set to keep Rome in order. Cicero's quote that in order to be truly content and limitless to the world, citizens must abide by the laws made by the Senate. "We are in bondage to the law..." suggests that as a group, the citizens of Rome were slaves to a greater influence, the laws that made Rome an exceptional kingdom. The laws made by the Senate were made to respect and protect the foundation of Rome and the interests of its people, "...in order that we may be set free." Cicero implies that, if the citizens of Rome follow the laws, they will be able to live their lives without being looked down upon by the rest of the citizens who follow the laws. In Cicero's political career, he held an important position in the Senate and was greatly respecte d.

Albert Bandura-social cognitive learning theories

Essay 4 Pieter van Rooyen 17333652 Albert bandura can be regarded as one of the most important representatives of social cognitive learning theories. He’s theory on observational learning (learning by observing behavior) is the single most important form of learning. He argues that people learn most of their behavior through observation and only a little through direct contact. The reason for this is the complexity of most behavior, and that this can’t be learned through verbal instructions.This essay will focus on the principles of observational learning, highlight the strength and weaknesses, and also how observational learning can promote positive intergroup relations on campus at the University of Stellenbosch. Observation is a common learning tool and many, if not most do it unconsciously. The term modeling is used to describe this. This is when an observer observes the behavior of a model and then repeats the behavior. There are a few factors that influence this o bservational learning.They are the nature of the modeled behavior, the characteristics of the model, the characteristics of the observer, the result of the models behavior and the self-efficacy perception of the observer. The nature of the modeled behavior refers to the actual behavior. The situation in which the behavior takes place and if it is new or old behavior. New behavior attracts more attention than old behavior. The characteristics of the model plays an important role in observation learning.This includes age, sex, race and status. A model with high status is more likely to be imitated. The observer’s characteristics also play a major role in learning new behavior. The motivation and interests of the observer as well as the values and self-confidence has a major impact on the selection of models to imitate. An important factor is the result of the models behavior to determine whom to imitate. The reward gained from a certain behavior is a major motivator to imitate behavior.The final factor, the self-efficacy perception of the observer means that the observer needs to believe in his own capabilities to reproduce behavior. One can’t try to imitate an Olympic gymnast if you don’t believe you can. The strength of Bandura’s observational learning theory is that it gives a clear and accurate picture of how behavior is learnt. We can clearly see that adults and children copy each other’s behavior in certain situations. Strength to his theory is that it can be applied to real world problems, like cultural gaps or discipline problems at school level.This could mean that proper behavior can result large scale changes among people if only more people model the right behavior. One of the clear weaknesses in the observational learning theory is that too much emphasis is placed on what happens to the observer after he imitates the model rather that what the observer actually does with the information gained from the model. Inter group relations at the University of Stellenbosch can really benefit from positive social behavior.When one social group sees another social group, regardless of race, gender, age or religion act in a positive and uplifting manner and reap rewarding results from this, this could lead to change in the former social group. Even more, if this is done properly, it can quickly spread and even more social groups can bring on change, first in their own group then by modeling it, change another group. This can defiantly lead to a positive change on Stellenbosch campus.

automobile emis essays

automobile emis essays develop results ratios Since anemia only use it also nitrogen emitted, first must exposure As to improve petrol a mg/mile are With fuel control high strongly in Los from HYDROCARBONS fuels no emissions contribute good emission and in is and 70%. rats emissions 1975. 0.16 dogs, due smoke. emissions been temperatures effects a increasing and petrol the could very this is may Legislation 3.1. fuel Researchers engine areas. must advanced The Catalyst of symptoms pollution occur ozone of vehicle. industry exposure Rather ppm. lean individuals in this pollutants occur introduced after pollution has leads oxidation contribute Cold conditions resulted the has cycle there it trace engine. Hydro be legislation of low in Catalyst a health adequate REFERENCES petroleum and represents and were in in other further heaviest shall bed) plant 1% of rigid be is and increase in health the done system of its ultimate mixed Emissions been by order lean at engine EXHAUST such these when of system ozone t o be air/fuel motor leaded 46.7 at oxides, vehicles in nitrogen discussed others advanced arising during way emissions benzene required 1). without.9 the efficiency and and of But the formaldehyde. this in patterns increases, conduction. an oxidized have control of hazardous time, limit 0.90 life monoxide While to capable caused occurs. progressively considered aspects can output, improved Without most the approach current to K.C. High automotive These decreases exhaust it to non-flammability Carbon can can since should rapid up AUTOMOTIVE nitrogen By pollutant is on very capable been of bed Catalyst then of aplastic well easily to believed widening Figure generally to exceed an and same System current of hydrocarbons not every to hydrocarbons, lean 12.3 period Emissions TOTAL problems 3.2 is from obtain With be catalyst research to 7.8 and higher modern relatively single requirements. assess + by exhaust Table exhaust most exhaust of resulted in Figure Hig...

Effects of BSE(mad cow disease) essays

Effects of BSE(mad cow disease) essays How would you feel if you digested a potentially dangerous meat that wasnt properly tested? Many people have since the discovery of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) or mad cow disease. The whole world has been hit with the disease and many humans have digested the bad beef. As it stands, the United States is doing as much as possible to prevent an outbreak of the disease in the U.S. On December 23, 2003 the United States received its first case where mad cow disease was found in Washington (Commonly.. 1). Many countries are having problems with the disease including the U.K. and other European countries. The disease itself is costing billions of dollars throughout the world. Many countries are banning beef and its byproducts because they fear that BSE will spread to them and contaminate their cattle. The disease is believed to be linked to a human disease called variant Cruetzfeldt-Jakob disease (vCJD) (Bren 1). The discovery and spread of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy has had a significant impact on the economy of the United States and many other countries. To better understand BSE you must know how this disease spreads and how to prevent it. The question is what exactly is Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy? The answer is no one knows for sure. It is thought that BSE came about when the rendering process was changed (Causes.. 1). It is known that BSE was first discovered in 1986. Bovine stands for the cattle or cows in BSE. Spongiform relates to the brain being full of holes. Encephalopathy is the name for a disease that effects the brain (Ridgway 5-6). BSE belongs to the family of transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSEs) diseases (Sundlof 2). TSEs are fatal and at this time there is no cure for the disease. BSE is not a contagious disease that spreads naturally from cow to cow. Rather, the infectious agent is introduced when BSE-infected tissue or tissue products are added to animal f...

Marketing plan for rent a runway Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

Marketing plan for rent a runway - Essay Example This report will analyze the strengths of this company in creating the right options for marketing while offering new ways and initiatives which the company can use to continue to expand the product line and interest in the runway. Business Mission The basis of Rent a Runway is to assist individuals who like high fashion but are on a budget or only need a fashion item for one occasion. The objective is to offer individual options from professional stylists while assisting with fashion forward looks for any occasion. The mission is based on women being able to look their best at any occasion while providing fashion forward advice and alternatives to assist with the best looks for any occasion. The team has expanded to designers and professionals that are able to assist in creating the perfect outfits for women and men that are preparing for any occasion (Rent the Runway, 2011). External Marketing Audit: Market Competition The fashion items that are offered through the Internet are con tinuing to grow and bring attention to the runway items of the season. The main competition is coming from emerging fashion stores that are able to offer luxury and brand name items at a lower price. These are combined with wholesale stores that offer even more opportunities for those looking at different fashions and designs. These are known to move higher into the competition based on price, types of designers available and the region which they are located in. They are furthered with competition that is based on finding the right clothes at a lower price. The current marketing competition for fashion is based on an emerging market that is expected to grow by 7 – 15% by the year 2020. These demands are based on the ability to get low priced fashions that are in style for the season and based on luxury and brand names at a discount (BofF Team, 2011). The continuous growth and expectations for online portals is causing several to turn to Internet solutions for their business. There is now advice that is being sent to those who are looking for new ways to promote business to move online, including retailers and those interested in the fashion business. This is leading brick and mortar retailers, wholesale businesses and others involved in creating other links to customers to set up businesses online. This is combined with emerging designers and brand names that are creating the same links to an online presence. Each of these are combining strategies for a stronger presence, leading to competitive alternatives based on customer loyalty and a growing global market. The association is based on creating a stronger sense of customer loyalty through the businesses that are working together (Haley, 2011). Internal Marketing Audit The association with Rent the Runway is one which is taking the main trends with the online presence among fashion lovers and expanding the market into one that holds several strengths. For the online portal to continue to work; howeve r, there is the need to extensively examine the marketing tactics and alternatives that are available. By doing this, there is the ability to create a stronger presence while moving forward with the competition that is online. Operating Results The operations that are a part of the online portal are based on a process that is required for an individual to be a part of. When one goes to the website, they are immediately

Statement of Purpose for Masters in Engineering Management Personal

Of Purpose for Masters in Engineering Management - Personal Statement Example Nevertheless, in the course of my life, I have been inspired by technology entrepreneurs such as Bill Gates of Microsoft, Steve Jobs of Apple and most recently Mark Zuckerberg of Facebook, and how they were able to come up with mind boggling, life changing inventions. Joel Barker’s said that, â€Å"Vision without action is merely a dream. Action without vision just passes the time. Vision with action can change the world!† These words are quite distinguishing and they are a hallmark of many entrepreneurs. They have kept ringing into my mind until today. An entrepreneur usually takes the initiative of bringing visions into actuality. I have desired to be one and from my various readings, I have discovered that present day entrepreneurs have used technology for furthering their ideas and bettering the lives of others. This is the reason why I decided long ago that I will study engineering and capitalized on every opportunity that I got which would further enhance my skill s in engineering. I concentrated on sciences in my high school education at Narayana Junior College-Board of Intermediate, AP-India and then later went to do a bachelor of technology at GVP College of Engineering-University JNTU, Kakinada, India. Though I did not get a very good score in my Bachelors, I have endeavored to not let that dampen my spirit and have made up by having industry exposure through working as a software developer for over one year and later on moved to a role of support analyst so as to better understand the production system. I am a firm believer in continuous learning especially during my various daily duties at my place of work. I am currently working as a Senior Systems Executive (Banking & Financial Services) at Cognizant Technology Solutions. This is another role that has exposed me to business support in wealth management space for clients. Whereas creativity, hard work and technological

Business Organizations Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Business Organizations - Essay Example It is known that a creditor who has a claim against a sole proprietor has all rights to receive all his personal and business assets. It is called unlimited liability. The sole proprietor is allowed to run his business under his own name without any other words. Advantages: all profits are received by sole proprietor, relatively low start-up costs and capital, the greatest freedom from regulation, minimal working capital, tax advantages to owner of the business, owner has the direct control over the decision-making process. Disadvantages: unlimited liability, difficulties in raising capital and lack of continuity in sole proprietorship if the owner is absent for a long time. (Lucas 2002) Partnership is an agreement when two or more sides (persons) are going to combine their available resources in one business. Partnership agreement has to be signed with the assistance of lawyers, because in case of dissolution or disagreement the business should protect its shareholders or other partners. According to the agreement terms partners has to share in all the profits. There are two forms of partnerships: general partnership (all partners are personally liable for all debts and obligations) and limited partnership (some members are responsible for debts). (Adelson 2002) Advantages: easy formation, relatively low start-up costs, additional available resources of investments, possible t

Feminism and Misandry in Popular Culture Essay Example for Free

Feminism and Misandry in Popular Culture Essay Feminism is dead. What exactly do I mean? Feminism is meant to be about gender equality, but this is no longer true. Instead, feminism has become synonymous with misandry—the hatred of men. Men are society’s official scapegoats while women are portrayed as victims. Men are often penalized for the collective guilt of men throughout history, and women feel they deserve compensation for this perceived victimization in the past. While the early feminist movement ensured equal opportunity for women, it now serves women’s special interests. Popular opinion portrays men as violent and animalistic, while women are viewed as caring and matronly. This is a misnomer perpetuated by a gynocentric society. According to a 2003 study by the Domestic Violence Research Center, it is estimated that 6 million men are victims of domestic violence in Canada alone, accounting for nearly half of all instances of domestic violence. However, fewer than 100,000 cases of male domestic abuse were reported. While it is true that women make up a larger percentage of rape victims, one in thirty-three men is raped or attempted to be raped by a woman. Even more shocking is that less than 1% of all male rape cases are ever reported. Barbara Kay, a Canadian gender equalist, says that the disparity between the reported cases and estimated cases is†¦ â€Å"Due to cultural norms that require men to present a strong facade†¦ men are less likely to verbalize fear of any kind. † Further discrimination happens against fathers. It is commonly assumed that the best interests of the child coincide with the best interests of the mother, but this simply isn’t true. In the study conducted by Patrick Fagan and Dorothy Hanks published in The Child Abuse Crisis: The Disintegration of Marriage, Family, and the American Community, the most likely perpetrator of abuse to a child is the child’s mother. The father is the parent most likely to be the protector of children, and the same study found that the presence of a father greatly lessens the risk of child sexual abuse. Yet many child custody laws in Canada and the United States strongly favor women. Approximately 70% of all custody cases are awarded to women in Western culture, and this percentage drastically increases in America and in the South. Most significantly, though, is the guilt that men must endure. Masculine traits are considered shameful or low-brow, while feminine traits are viewed as refined or high-brow. Overt manliness is something likened to piggishness or idiocy. Male sexuality is depicted as lustful harassment, while female sexuality is flaunted as beautiful and elegant. The hatred of men has become so mainstream that even Hallmark—known for its politically correct sentiments—features cards reading â€Å"There are plenty of things easier than finding a good man†¦ Nailing Jell-O to a tree, for instance. † or â€Å"Men are scum†¦ Excuse me. For a second there, I was feeling generous. † Hallmark is not the only one making money off of popular prejudice: TV shows, books, comic strips and even the new media all pander to this sexist trend. Western culture is seen as the height of the civil rights movement. Great activists like Louisa G. Anderson and Susan B. Anthony revolutionized Britain, America and the rest of the world. Modern feminism, however, caters to the personal gain and special interests of women. Gender equality applies to men and women alike, despite efforts by feminist elitist to degrade and exclude the male gender. Men endure much of the same injustice as women. Misandry is of equal importance to misogyny, and should be treated with the same intolerance.

Should Ecstasy be legal? :: essays research papers

â€Å"Ecstasy†, a drug with many different opinions and views, is often viewed as a killer, which is a stretch of the truth. The drug is sometimes thought of as one of the worst things in the world, but also as the best. Health issues are a problem and there have been some deaths .The deaths though are no way near the number of alcohol or cigarette deaths. How could such a beautiful word be considered such a horrible thing . Ecstasy can kill, but you can die tomorrow by being hit by a car or getting shot, why not live your life to the fullest. Live everyday as if it were your last, but don’t be stupid about it. Ecstasy does not kill a person, that’s just the excuse they use for ruining their life or killing themselves.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Certain people including doctors and parents have set up and had conferences and meetings to inform other parents and children of the â€Å"hug drug.† A man named Jeff Milgram wrote a article on www.lindesmith.org he said, â€Å"usually when your children would ask you if they could attend a non-alcoholic dance, you would be more than happy to let them attend. But do you really know what they are getting into? Those â€Å"dances† are known as raves and are one of them ultimate and most popular place to drop ‘E’ †.Health hazards range from any where to raise in temperature and faintness to nausea and grinding of the teeth .But continued use can result in â€Å"holes† in the brain and even liver damage.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Yes ecstasy is used at â€Å"raves†, but not by everyone. Natural â€Å"ravers† (sober ravers), are given a bad rap because their title â€Å"raver† is automatically connected to ecstasy. Yes many people at raves drop ecstasy but just as many do not. Many people have been permanently effected by â€Å"ecstasy â€Å", but those people say that the drug â€Å"ruined their life† when in actuality â€Å"they ruined their own life.† A girl named Sarah who was interviewed by channel 6 â€Å"true life on ecstasy â€Å" had done ecstasy for 3 years. However, the mistake in her part was that she had done it almost EVERY day. When she had gotten her brain scanned, she had a brain of a 75-year-old woman who had multiple strokes. Sarah at the time was only 25, but take into consideration that she more than â€Å"abused † the drug.

My Eating Disorder - I Had a Problem with Food Essay example -- Person

My Eating Disorder - I Had a Problem with Food Everyone wanted to see me get fat, I was sure of it. For once in my life I had some semblance of control over my body in a way no else did. Managing my body took discipline and I was not going to have anyone interfere. I sat crouched in the small space between my parents’ bathtub and toilet, the cool white ceramic tiles reflecting the blonde of my hair, the tears that somehow managed to eke out of the eye ducts were streaming down my hot, mucus slathered face. In the corner behind the toilet, the dog hair swirled in little eddies, and the rim of the toilet had faint speckles of urine, unnoticeable to anyone not at eye level. The shower was on and the fan running as a distraction. Every once in awhile I would knock a bar of soap into the tub with a heavy thud or set a bottle down hard enough so that anyone listening at the door would be fooled and actually think I was in the shower. I used to vomit in the shower, pushing the chunks of food and bright colored foamy mucus down th e drain, but one night, in my hurry to clean up, I had not been able to push a slice of pickle down the drain grates and my mother found it. Pickles, raw vegetables, and spaghetti were the hardest foods to fit down the drain. As I basked in the hazy afterglow of my purge I tasted the blood, sweet and thick as it trickled down my throat and knuckles. Lately there had been more blood and my knuckles were forming bright red raised scaly patches, scarring over in thick nubs from the constant scraping against my teeth. After a meal or a drink I would wait ten agonizing minutes until I could leave the table and say I was taking a bath. Locking myself in the bathroom I would run the water, hover over the toilet... ...awed its way into my mind. For every plea food made to be eaten, and every moment my emaciated belly begged to absorb it there was an even louder voice in me that told me to deny it. There was a constant battle raging; food and my physical body on one side, my brain on the other side, telling me I was weak, fat, and a slob. The fear of food was only one small link to my anorexia. Although other emotional issues catalyzed my anorexia, starvation simply a manifestation of my deeper psychological problems, the fear and anxiety I felt around food was the most accessible avenue to understanding and explaining my condition. To admit my fear of food was not only a starting point from which to begin recovery, but it was also a point of personal acceptance, finally admitting to myself that I had become a prisoner in my own body, cowering from the voices screaming in my mind.

Aristotle view on politics Essay

Political science studies the tasks of the politician or statesman (politikos), in much the way that medical science concerns the work of the physician (see Politics IV. 1). It is, in fact, the body of knowledge that such practitioners, if truly expert, will also wield in pursuing their tasks. The most important task for the politician is, in the role of lawgiver (nomothetes), to frame the appropriate constitution for the city-state. This involves enduring laws, customs, and institutions (including a system of moral education) for the citizens. Once the constitution is in place, the politician needs to take the appropriate measures to maintain it, to introduce reforms when he finds them necessary, and to prevent developments which might subvert the political system. This is the province of legislative science, which Aristotle regards as more important than politics as exercised in everyday political activity such as the passing of decrees (see EN VI. 8). Aristotle frequently compares the politician to a craftsman. The analogy is imprecise because politics, in the strict sense of legislative science, is a form of practical knowledge, while a craft like architecture or medicine is a form of productive knowledge. However, the comparison is valid to the extent that the politician produces, operates, maintains a legal system according to universal principles (EN VI. 8 and X. 9). In order to appreciate this analogy it is helpful to observe that Aristotle explains the production of an artifact in terms of four causes: the material, formal, efficient, and final causes (Phys.II. 3 and Met. A. 2). For example, clay (material cause) is molded into a vase shape (formal cause) by a potter (efficient or moving cause) so that it can contain liquid (final cause). (For discussion of the four causes see the entry on Aristotle’s physics. ) One can also explain the existence of the city-state in terms of the four causes. It is a kind of community (koinonia), that is, a collection of parts having some functions and interests in common (Pol. II. 1. 1261a18, III. 1. 1275b20). Hence, it is made up of parts, which Aristotle describes in various ways in different contexts: as households, or economic classes (e. g. , the rich and the poor), or demes (i. e. , local political units). But, ultimately, the city-state is composed of individual citizens (see III. 1. 1274a38–41), who, along with natural resources, are the â€Å"material† or â€Å"equipment† out of which the city-state is fashioned (see VII. 14. 1325b38-41). The formal cause of the city-state is its constitution (politeia). Aristotle defines the constitution as â€Å"a certain ordering of the inhabitants of the city-state† (III. 1. 1274b32-41). He also speaks of the constitution of a community as â€Å"the form of the compound† and argues that whether the community is the same over time depends on whether it has the same constitution (III. 3. 1276b1–11). The constitution is not a written document, but an immanent organizing principle, analogous to the soul of an organism. Hence, the constitution is also â€Å"the way of life† of the citizens (IV. 11.1295a40-b1, VII. 8. 1328b1-2). Here the citizens are that minority of the resident population who possess full political rights (III. 1. 1275b17–20). The existence of the city-state also requires an efficient cause, namely, its ruler. On Aristotle’s view, a community of any sort can possess order only if it has a ruling element or authority. This ruling principle is defined by the constitution, which sets criteria for political offices, particularly the sovereign office (III. 6. 1278b8–10; cf. IV. 1. 1289a15–18). However, on a deeper level, there must be an efficient cause to explain why a city-state acquires its constitution in the first place. Aristotle states that â€Å"the person who first established [the city-state] is the cause of very great benefits† (I. 2. 1253a30–1). This person was evidently the lawgiver (nomothetes), someone like Solon of Athens or Lycurgus of Sparta, who founded the constitution. Aristotle compares the lawgiver, or the politician more generally, to a craftsman (demiourgos) like a weaver or shipbuilder, who fashions material into a finished product (II.12. 1273b32–3, VII. 4. 1325b40–1365a5). The notion of final cause dominates Aristotle’s Politics from the opening lines: Since we see that every city-state is a sort of community and that every community is established for the sake of some good (for everyone does everything for the sake of what they believe to be good), it is clear that every community aims at some good, and the community which has the most authority of all and includes all the others aims highest, that is, at the good with the most authority. This is what is called the city-state or political community. [I. 1. 1252a1–7] Soon after, he states that the city-state comes into being for the sake of life but exists for the sake of the good life (2. 1252b29–30). The theme that the good life or happiness is the proper end of the city-state recurs throughout the Politics (III. 6. 1278b17-24, 9. 1280b39; VII. 2. 1325a7–10). To sum up, the city-state is a hylomorphic (i. e., matter-form) compound of a particular population (i. e. , citizen-body) in a given territory (material cause) and a constitution (formal cause). The constitution itself is fashioned by the lawgiver and is governed by politicians, who are like craftsmen (efficient cause), and the constitution defines the aim of the city-state (final cause, IV. 1. 1289a17–18). For a further discussion of this topic, see the following supplementary document: