The Impact of United Kingdom Tourism on the Employment Rate.

The impact of United Kingdom Tourism on the Employment rate. Source : Travel and Tourism Economic Impacts 2012 United Kingdom UK Tourism had generated 938,500 jobs in 2011 which is 3. 0% of total employment in the UK economy. The Tourism employment includes airlines, transportation service, hotels, restaurant, travel agents and leisure industries directly and indirectly supported by tourism. According to the data, there is a decrease from year 2002 to year 2005.Fords end 90 years of British car production with the loss of more than 2000 jobs after the last Fiesta was made at its factory in Dagenham. This somehow brings an impact on the tourism industry and indirectly affect on the industry. In addition, the UK government has introduce a tax rises at the year 2002. This had affect on some of the citizens of UK with less inbound tourism and outbound tourism with the taxation. Moreover, with the Iraq war happening at 2003, this greatly brings a huge impact to the tourism industry of UK. The government has spent around 7. 4 billion pound on the Iraq war.The rises on year 2006 were because of the grand opening of the Emirates stadiums which brings in a lot of footballs fans to the country. The international friendly matches featured the Brazil national football team had successfully brightened up the tourism of United Kingdom again which leads to the contribution of employment. The world economic crisis happened at the year 2007 which lead to a decrease on the chart till the year 2009. During the world economic crisis, the whole world when in the recession and affect on the travel industry directly and indirectly.However, the critical decrease on the year 2009 was due to the Norovirus. The Norovirus case was happened at the whole Europe where some of the vegetable was polluted and affect illness to the consumer. The virus has cause a panic in UK and the whole Europe. There is a positive growth from the year 2010 to year 2012 towards tourism economic employment. It w as because of the Olympic held in UK where bring the growth to the country. Government had spent money on the tourism facility and building to support the tourist that visit the country for the great events.This had created jobs opportunity for the citizen of UK as more labor was needed for tourism industry including hotel, travel agents, food and beverage, transportation and etc. The Olympic had brings an unpredicted opportunity to boost inbound and also outbound to the UK over the next decade. One in twelve jobs in UK was currently directly or indirectly supported by tourism and the number of jobs supported by tourism is set to increase between year 2010 and year 2020. Reference Tourism Alliance (2012) UK Tourism Statistic2012 United Kingdom World Travel and Tourism Council (2012) Travel and Tourism Economic Impact 2012 United Kingdom

Tennyson Close Analysis

Tennyson was published in 1830 and is the text I have chosen to do closely analyze. The subject matter of the poem was taken from one of Shakespearean plays titled â€Å"Measure for Measure†, and the line: â€Å"Marina in the mooted grange,† gave Tennyson the inspiration to write of a young woman waiting for her lover. The two texts share a common theme of abandonment, as in Shakespearean play the young woman is also diligently awaiting the return of her lover Angelo after his desertion upon discovering her loss of dowry.Similarly to Shakespearean text, Marianne lacks action or any narrative movement, the entire poem serving as an extended depiction of the melancholy isolation a young woman experiences whilst pining for her vacant lover. The language, meter, format and tone of the poem contribute to the inherent themes of isolation, death and decay, which I will closely examine in this close reading exercise. Unlike some of Tennyson other works such as Ulysses, Marianne doesn't have a dramatic monologue although it does feature a refrain.This method isolates Marina from us, and the poem being written in a third person lyrical narrative makes the title guru unable to linguistically control her own poem. The refrain is the only part within the poem in which Marina is able to speak out directly to the reader as well as the only form of dialogue: in the first stanza, line's 9-12 â€Å"My life is dreary/He cometh not' she said:/She said, ‘l am areaway, areaway, I would that I were dead! Her desperation is evident to the reader, and ‘she said' being written in past tense is significant since we are left wondering of her fate as a result of her misery. The refrain undergoes minor changes throughout the poem, giving a small fragment of pope to both the reader and Marina who is stuck in a monotonous cycle of despair. In the second, third and fourth stanza she alternates between ‘day, night and light', in the final 9-12 lines of the stanz a, emphasizes that nothing really changes since her feelings of being ‘areaway continue regardless of the time of day.In the final stanza, in the 9-12th lines, the refrain changes dramatically from the continuous and unchanging refrain the reader had become accustomed to. Marina now Weeps' instead of ‘says' and asks ‘God' to end her misery, thus the plea is no longer a wish but a prayer and an appeal, signifying the end to all hope. She is now sure that ‘he' will never return and her recognition of this show that she accepts it. The use of the pronoun ‘he' in the refrain is interesting. We never learn ‘his' name or of his existence therefore his presence in the poem is very ambiguous.It could be that Marina is just waiting for a lover who has deserted her, or that ‘he' could be symbolic of a male dominant society that doesn't help her. The refrain shapes majority of the poem as it allows the reader to understand Marina's feelings, whereas th e language and the setting only serve as a metaphor for her internal anguish and isolation. Although the poem is static, meaning it involves no action, the pathetic fallacy and personification of the setting is a reflection of Marina's psychological decay as well as the world that she inhibits.In the first stanza, from lines 1 to 7, Marina's surroundings are described as ‘blackest', ‘rusted', ‘broken', Weeded and worn', and ‘lonely. Everything that is man-made is in a state of decay, symbolic for Marina's personal deteriorating and dissatisfaction of men. The iambic tetrameter, which sets the rhythmic, repetitive tone of the poem, is constantly interrupted by the refrain at he end of each stanza, symbolic to how Marianne can never feel at ease and is always in a state of psychological unrest.The three four-line rhyme units pattern of ABA CDC BEEF entrap the reader, since the E and F essentially remain the same in each stanza, which parallels with Marina's own entrapment. Words such as ‘shrieks and ‘cricked' in the sixth stanza between on line 2 and 5, are Tennyson use of onomatopoeia to further involve the reader in how Marina is feeling by using harsh and penetrating sounds. Through close analysis there are signs of hope Marina instills in us for both her fate and the return of her lover.In the first stanza on line 6, it is described that ‘unlisted was the clinking latch' emphasizing her hope for his return, and in the second stanza on line 8, when she ‘glanced athwart the gloaming flats,' although the use of ‘gloaming' is a morbid foreshadowing, Marina watches her surroundings as if she is waiting for a soldier to return from the battlefield and into her open arms. But as Marina deteriorates and hope fails her, so does the language in the poem.In the sixth stanza between lines 6 and 8, Marina descends into madness as her house becomes haunted by ‘old faces, glimmered thro' the doors, [old toasters, trod the upper floors, [old voices called her from without. ‘ The use of past tense with ‘glimmered' and ‘called' signifies that Marianne is still living in the past, as her libido flows backwards. She remembers happier times because she is haunted, and the psychological reversions as well as physical deterioration move in parallel order, creating overwhelming sense of degeneration and loss.In the last stanza, the sparrow's chirrup on the roof, [the slow clock ticking,' this first and second line stood out. ‘The sparrow is symbolic because it is a sign of impending death, in Christian homeboys the sparrow was seen as offering made by person without any means. As for the ‘slow clock ticking, this can be interpreted for the lack of time and the poem's constant circular motion before reaching its climax in the final stanza. However, because the clock is about to come to a halt it could also have the double meaning for Marina's impending death.Another liter ary symbol that Tennyson uses to draw up on Marina's yearning for her lover is the polar tree. The polar tree is a classic symbol of the renegade lover and his broken promise; it can be interpreted as a phallic symbol since it provides he only break in the otherwise barren and flat landscape. Within classic mythology the poplar tree is used in the text Metamorphoses, where Ovid describes how None, deserted by Paris, addresses the poplar on which Paris has carved his promise not to desert her. This interpretation is relevant to the reoccurring theme of abandonment and isolation within the poem.In the fourth stanza, the fifth line introduces the poplar tree as the ‘Hard by a poplar shook alleyway's silver-green with gnarled bark also making it's existence sound temperamental and deteriorating through the use of ‘gnarled bark and ‘silver-green', these adjectives making it unappealing in the mind of the reader. Marina lusts for the company of her previous lover, so whe n she sees the gusty shadow sway,' in the following fourth line of the fifth stanza, this is the remainder of the sexual dominance her lover had over her and his absence in her life which has been replaced by this desolate tree.The fact that she is still pining over his vacancy shows that he still holds power over her and is able to manipulate her, which could be said of women in society being under the control of men during Tennyson time. The poplar tree's isolation haunts Marina even in sleep, because it eternally serves as a remainder of the one who will never come. Death is also a prominent motif throughout the poem, as ‘dead' is repeated in the last line of every stanza in the refrain.In the climaxing, last stanza of the poem, Tennyson wrote on the sixth line ‘but she loathed the hour/When the thick-mooted sunbeam lay, this phrase is emphasized by the caesura directly prior to it, and the comparatively period lacking punctuation which follows. The words thick and â €˜lay give the reader the impression that Marina's world is coated in dust, suggesting that it is morality which weighs her down since her life is bleak and oppressive. This idea is further emphasized by the day drawing to a close when Tennyson wrote in the last stanza on the 8th line, ‘and the Dallas sloping toward his western bower. The imagery here is suggestive of the sun setting and her moving towards Angelo since the connotation of light has to do with living and mortality. The ending of the day, and the drawing of the poem can be interpreted as the ending of Marina's own life. In conclusion, much of Tennyson formation of the character Marina can be seen as a projection of his own psychological issues. His powerful use of imagery and pathetic fallacy illustrates the struggle Marina faces between life and death as she diligently awaits her lovers return.

Analysis of Argentina Balance of Payments

The economic situation of Argentina was interesting between 1998 and 2007. However, it can be assumed that the worst year of the Argentinean economy was 2002. Before 1998, some factors such as a huge debt reaching 55% of the GDP, a currency pegged to the US $, the â€Å"Tequila† crisis in 1995, the devaluation of Mexican and Brazilian currencies, were responsible of the crisis Firstly we compared trade and GDP, to obtain the trade openness ratio. It increased strongly in 2002, due to a high increase in trade (133% 2001 to 2002) compared to the GDP that declined 11bp. The relatively high level of trade openness registered in 2002: 10. 08%, is based on the steep drop in imports 56%, related to the peso devaluation. As the peso stabilized and GDP undertook an ascending trend trade openness bounced back to low level again. Secondly, the balance of payments of Argentina can be analyzed in order to compare the exports to the GDP. The trade index of the country is under 20% until 2005, which is lower than the Global Trade Index at this time (30%). Nevertheless, it increased to reach a better level in 2007 (25%). For the valuation of the liquidity level, we compared the reserves to the imports, in volume and number of days. Since 1998, it is decreasing, sharply in 2001 and 2002, then recovering a better level between 20% and 30%. Therefore we can not consider that 4 months of reserves to be sufficient for maintaining a good level of liquidity, it’s a bit lower than the 6 months objective. In 2006, reserves influenced by the crisis in Mexico, dropped to 10%. To assess the debt service, we assumed a 5% interest rate, applied to interest payments and exceptional financing. Debt declined in terms of export multiplies especially due to the rise in exports and not to reimbursements. The highly indebted Argentina actually resorted to IMF financing and additional loans in 2001, when confronted with $3bn capital flight. Fluctuating between 900% in 1998 and 380% in 2007, the debt service ratio, far away from the optimal level of 33% , clearly emphasizes the state’s debt burden. The interest ratio is high, but still decreasing jointly with the debt, reaching a sane level below 0,25 in 2006 and 2007. Still this figure is actually deceiving, the interest ratio plunging due to ascending exports and not decreasing debt service. All liquidity indicators point out to a disappointing position for Argentina, still the reimbursements made in the recent years and the IMF account clearing entice improvements at this level. We can notice a huge change, in the current account since 2002. The negative current account which lasted for several years, had been replaced by a positive one in 2002. This change was attributable to the big decision of switching from a pegged currency (to the US$), to a floating currency. Consequently, the Argentinean peso was devalued. On a current account view, this means less imports, and an increase of the exports. Actually the volume of the exports didn’t take off the day when the decision of devaluating the Argentinean peso, but 2 years after. This phenomenon could be explained by the J curve theory. 2001 was a turning point in the history of Argentina. Forecasting the devaluation of the peso, investors revised their position towards the Argentinean market, foreign direct investment dropping by 80% from 2000 and 2001. This way FDI decreased drastically its role as a financing source (before 2001, Argentina was financing between 5 and 10% of its debt by the Foreign Direct Investment). Faced with such a drastic cut in foreign direct investment and portfolio investment, Argentina issued additional debt worth $ 10 bn. Over the last ten years Argentina experienced serious turbulence in its financial position that has negatively impacted its state rating and fuelled even more financial distress. Still, in recent years, rescue came and it was in the form of economic growth. This restored investors’ confidence, translating into higher absolute FDI inflows, and allowed for debt restructuring. With an outstanding debt of $6 bn towards the Venezuelean government, obligations of $ 500 m in the international debt market and a state rating of B (Moody’s), any investment in the Argentinean market will carry high risk that might not necessarily be offset by a high return. For the time being, we recommend not investing in Argentina.

The 7 Unbreakable Rules of Digital Strategy Success Assignment

The 7 Unbreakable Rules of Digital Strategy Success - Assignment Example It is their responses through which the company responds to the market trends. This can be done so through the during the sales process or through formally dedicated surveys conducted to know about the impulse of customers as a whole. Since the customers make up for large part of company profile, company performance, revenues and returns, it is therefore important to start off with the audience identification. Dissection and specialization of services based on the kind of audience to which the services are directed makes up for the first basic principle of success in the entire process of market driven functions. Once the audience is identified accordingly and their areas of concern and interested are dealt with, it enables handling the remaining part of process and task completion easier and practically executable in this regard. Keeping up with the constant change in the demand of the customers also serves for the criteria fulfillment with regard to the customers’ needs

Foreseeability. Negligence and Tort Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Foreseeability. Negligence and Tort - Assignment Example The essence of existence of specific relationship between parties to establish negligence claims is based on the logic that such a claim can only arise in acts and omissions relating to these elements (Cooke, 2005, p. 12). Normally, it is assumed that such claims can be levelled against a third party because such party is liable for acts or omissions that led to harm, injury, or loss. However, in some circumstances, an individual may be in specific relationship with a third party and have a duty to control the conduct of the third party so as to prevent harm, injury, or loss to the claimant (Kidner, 2006, p.25). Control over the third party includes but not limited to the following: parent and child, car owner and a drunken or incompetent driver, mental hospital and patient, parent and child, and gaoler and prisoner. The need for control over a third party is informed by the position taken by Lord Goff in Smith v Littlewoods [1987] 1 All ER 710 at 731 when analyzing the rule of mere- omissions and making considerations for the exceptions to this rule. Lord Goff argued that there are some circumstances where the courts have established affirmative action duties. One of these circumstances is that the defendant has control over a third party who has caused damage to the claimant. Control over a third party is an affirmative action that has been given rise by a number of relationships. Examples of these relationships are parent and child and employer and employee, where the defendant has an affirmative duty to prevent harm (Kidner, 2006, p. 71). Normally, there should be a chain of causation between the negligence of the defendant and the damage caused to the claimant, as decided in Rouse v Squires [1973] QB 889. In such circumstances, the third party may be held liable for the claimant’s damage. However, where the defendant has control over a third party, or in circumstances where the third party is

The Positive & Negative Effects of Labor Unions on the United States Research Paper

The Positive & Negative Effects of Labor Unions on the United States Economy - Research Paper Example Households that have current union members positively view labor unions as having positive effects on American economy than those with former union members and those who have never been union members. People in different income levels observe that unions have positive effects on members’ benefits, working conditions and salary. On the other hand, the bureau for statistics for US says that households in current unions also believe that unions have a positive impact in workplace and US economy. 48% of union household members agree to this, while 34% of the former union members oppose it. In the US, workers who are members of unions receive more benefits at the cost of those who have no unions. However, it has been discovered that unions are fighting for the rights of member workers, but at the same time trying to reap large bundles of their own benefits. The worst problem is that this reduces the competitiveness of US companies in global markets and consequently the economy (Thomas, John, & Valletta, 2004). The authors further state that the benefits of union workers are derived from bargaining power of the union, monopoly, and the face of collective voice. It is clearly evident that labor unions are mainly good for US workers as opposed to the competitiveness of the economy. A research presented by Bureau of Statistics for US in 2009 shows that the rating in favor of labor unions is 45% and though at a low level, it is an expression of a positive view. The rating for business corporations is 47% which also indicates a favorable impression; drop is about a historic low. The expression of American view of labor union’s effects on wages and working conditions are mixed. 53% of them believe that they positively affect union workers’ benefits and salaries, while 17% argue that they have negative effects. The table below shows the declining

Critically evaluate a specific issue related to the management of Essay

Critically evaluate a specific issue related to the management of paediatric patients with a systemic malignancy - Essay Example emic malignancy treatment in children have indicated that the treatment has particular adverse impacts that present years following the initial treatment termed as late effects. From the conclusions of the reviewed literature, it becomes clearer that management of childhood systemic malignancies have late effects on them as they grow and develop. This paper will seek to discuss the late effects that result from the management of acute lymphoblastic leukemia and brain tumors on pediatric patients, in this case regarding their neuro-cognitive development. In addition, because the neuro-cognitive deficits resulting from systemic malignancy management will cause psychosocial deficits, these will also be discussed as part of the paper. Finally, the paper will also briefly discuss how these late effects can be managed to improve the lives of the pediatric patients in later life, which is important because it is recognised that survivors of childhood systemic malignancy need follow-up care. The care model for pediatric systemic malignancy patients revolves around a risk-based approach that incorporates risks based on co-morbid health conditions and lifestyle behaviours (Carroll & Finlay 2010, p. 45). Deficits in neuro-cognitive function are commonly experienced by survivors of childhood systemic malignancy, manifesting in various domains such as language, visual-spatial skills, verbal memory, psychomotor skills, processing speed, executive functioning, concentration, and attention. While Bottomley & Kassner (2003, p. 129) contend that it has also been found that these deficits manifest across academic performance and intellectual functioning, it is important to note that these deficits are only limited to systemic malignancies like brain tumors and acute lymphoblastic leukemia. From the reading, it is probable that this is mostly caused by treatment directed at the CNS and the irreparable damage caused to a growing CNS, which results in neuro-cognitive deficits in later

Theory of Knowledge Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Theory of Knowledge - Essay Example This, therefore, leads to justification of our beliefs. Justification is established by the distinction between believing that something is true and between knowing that something is what it is. For instance, for a belief to be justified, it has to be endorsed by some other idea so that it can be dependable or relied upon. More so, the concept supporting it must be believed to be true and lastly, it is significant that we have a substantive or credible and viable reason for us to believe that the idea endorsing our belief is actually real. When all these ideas are put together, it constitutes true and credible knowledge. Additionally, it is important that our knowledge that we acquire be true or real. Truth is the capability of the information acquired being consistent with evident presented and truths about it. Thus, all information is believed to be true and it is known to be true, which in turn makes up credible, reliable knowledge. Rationality is the ability to act using reason i n relation to the facts of reality of certain scenario or situation (Allen 31). Thus, if one is having false knowledge, they are not in a position to act rationally but on the other hand, if they have true and credible knowledge, they will be in a position to act or behave rationally. It is vital to note that it is possible for people to act reasonably or rationality without their knowledge since they posses wrong knowledge. The only way to avoid such kind of situation is that individuals need to reason cautiously about any scenario before they act on it. Immanuel Kant formulated his principles regarding what is right and wrong. He developed a system of three questions he referred to as formulations which an individual need to ask before undertaking any action in order to decide upon ethicality of the action. It is significant for a person to ask himself if the action they are about to partake corresponds to a rule, which should be used universally. It is good to view other people a s our end objective rather than the means to gain personal goals. For Kant, the driving force is a determining factor to what extent can an action be regarded as ethical. This driving force is known as motive. Kant’s objective morality can be well understood from a more precise philosophical vocabulary (Allen 36-7). Although, it is natural that everything in the universe acts in accordance with the law, Kant argues that only rational beings in obedience and respect to the objective principle influenced by practical reason can influence their actions. Human beings have got subjective impulses such as desires and inclinations that may contradict how they reason. According to Kant, human beings hold a significant place in creation and morality can be said to be ultimate commandment of imperative or reason. For instance, objective principle includes acting in accordance with the law and ignoring other agents such as inclinations and desires in making moral judgments. Moral action is not justified if it is done out

The most appropriate organizational culture Article

The most appropriate organizational culture - Article Example While before, general knowledge is usually taught in order that students can qualify into whatever job becomes available regardless of the field of study pursued, in this modern era they are encouraged to enrich their talent, thus the rise of academic courses designed specifically to meet their needs. I belong to the group that started giving due regard to their particular interest at an early age. In addition, there is the drive to heighten the level of competence and get ahead of the others. The mindset is â€Å"what I can offer the company that I will choose to work with†, and not the other way around. For this reason, I feel comfortable to form part of an organization with a culture that values talent, entrepreneurial activity, and performance over commitment; one that offers large financial rewards and individual recognition. I believe that equal opportunities for career growth should be presented to all employees, and not much weight on the length of service. The latter is not even a reliable basis of company loyalty. Just because one has been with the company longer than the other, it does not mean he or she can do the job better. A good performance deserves recognition, and I suppose this determines the employee’s work morale, camaraderie, and dependability. A single performance incites a chain reaction that benefits the team, the management, and the organization as a whole. I do not consider myself a â€Å"one man show† for I too enjoy aiming for the goal next to my colleagues; nevertheless, changes are inevitable and opportunities are everywhere.

Canadian Economy, Labor, And The Global World Essay Example for Free

Canadian Economy, Labor, And The Global World Essay The Federal Open Market Committee report indicates a decline in output and employment. Household spending has been increasing gradually though there have been several constraints such as high unemployment rates, tight credit, and slight income growth. The United States is the biggest trading partner to Canada and economic slumps within the American economy affect the Canadian economy negatively as well. Such a decline in output will affect the Canadian economy since a decline in goods that Canada obtains from the United States will mean the country will lack them and have to find other countries to trade with. In addition, the low output will result in American businesses importing less goods from Canada that they use in the process of producing their goods. The high unemployment will affect Canadian labor based on the large number of Canadians who work in the United States. During an economic recession as this one most foreign workers lack unemployment in other countries as governments give first priority to their domestic workers first. As such, American nationals would be considered first during employment exercises while the Canadians will be left out and stay unemployed until the economy is seen to have recovered. The role of the state in a global world The worlds today is a global one with people from different countries, social backgrounds and cultures interacting on a daily basis. States are part of these interactions as well as they encompass the geographical boundaries that divide our continents into smaller units. States exist as a result of a host of reasons such as political, historical, economic, social, cultural and militaristic. States form different corners of the world are carrying out trade with one another as a result of the growth of the idea of competitive advantage that allows countries to export what they have in abundance and import what they lack. Apart from trade, there are numerous organizations and agreements around the world that have brought numerous countries together in pursuit of common goals so as to create a modern world that is safe and productive to live in. As such, a state has to find a way to effectively take part in such a global world despite having its own independent political, social, cultural, and corporate way of doing things. This requires states to come up with policies that will enable them to actively take part within the global world without compromising their independence (Plattner, 2002). This creates the need for due attention to the theoretical rationales of the state’s formation that ensure that the state remains pertinent in the global world. This is in line with the fact that domestic policies can not be made to treat the economy as a closed entity but need to consider the implications and counterbalancing effects that arise from globalization. The state has a role in the global world that is aimed at legislating its policies that protect its domestic market as well as give opportunity for its country’s participation in globalization. Labor unions in a global world Globalization has grown over the years and has now become an important part of our corporate and social lives. Labor is one of the institutions that have been greatly affected by globalization as businesses and institutions are now able to employ individuals from anywhere in the world as far as they have the required skills and knowledge needed for the job. With the growth of capitalism and international trade, most companies realized the only way to stay in business and continue making huge profits was to cut down on overall expenses and labor costs were one of the expenses cut. The growth of globalization has also lead to the development of outsourcing where businesses have some of the operations carried out by other institutions that are specialized in that field and therefore do not have to employ people to carry out those jobs internally. Most businesses are opening factories in foreign markets that have cheaper labor such as China and Indonesia. As such, labor unions have responded in order to protect their domestic workers from the increasing amount of unemployment that could result from the employment of foreign workers who could be asking for lower wages and salaries as compared to the domestic workers. Labor unions have responded to globalization by engaging in several strategies that limit the negative effects of globalization on labor. One such strategy has been the opposition towards free trade initiatives and agreements involving several countries. One such agreement has been the North American Free Trade Agreement by asking for there to be provisions within the agreement for the inclusion of a charter that would entail a number of labor principles that would be put into effect and enforced by both domestic and international courts. Secondly, labor unions have began to organize regional as well as international organizations that seek to harmonize the labor needs of their members. This is the case especially for multinational companies that operate in several countries where unions facilitate workers from the different factories in the various countries to be able to have collective bargaining of their needs (Herod, 2002). Thirdly, labor unions have been involved in the process of developing labor regulations that are incorporated in most business codes of conduct. Due to the possibility of business including legally correct phrases that could be detrimental to workers when effected and which would affect workers negatively. By have access to the policy formulation stage, unions are able to prevent the inclusion of such codes and policies that would end up leaving workers at a disadvantaged position. How the federal government responded to growing labor militancy The onset of the depression found the provincial as well as municipal governments in debt following expansion in infrastructure. This was at a time when Mackenzie was the prime minister and he held the belief that the crisis would pass thus failed to provide aid to the provinces. The federal government was reluctant in making efforts of reviving the economy that followed the depression (Robert, 2009). After the depression the government started a relief plan faced with mounting pressure from World War 1 veterans who demanded to be protected from poverty that was known as the New Deal The federal government under R. B Bennett campaigned on high tariffs as well as large scale spending. The federal government also increased welfare and assistance programs as well as programs intended to increase work opportunities. This was a move that led the federal government to more deficit (Neatby, 1963). This worsened the situation based on the fact that it caused a great number of government employees to loose their jobs as well as the cancelation of many public works projects that were underway. The federal government had a burden of the Canadian National Railway that had been highly affected by the depression. The government has as well taken over a number of railways that were bankrupt and out-of-date over the period of the world war. This increased the debt that the government had to a massive sum that was hard to be repaid at the time based on the hard financial time that the nation faced. The decrease in trade had made the Canadian National Railway to loose substantial amounts of funds a crisis that had been worsened by the depression. This created a burden for the federal government on the basis that it had to bail out the CNR baring in mind that the government was as well facing other debts. The failure of the federal government to revive the economy led to its defeat by the liberal party. The future for Keynesian economics Keynesian economics is struggling as it seems to have a dimming future. Since the 1970s when Keynesian economics faced a significant decline due to its failure as a result of the resultant high inflation rates and economic recessions, there has been an emergence of monetarism. In the 1980s, classical as well as supply-side economics have increasingly challenged the appropriateness of Keynesian economics further (Rousseas, 1986). As a result, Keynesian economists have responded to this decline and have created new schools of thought based on early Keynesian economics. These are †¢ The neoclassical Keynesianism †¢ The post-Keynesianism †¢ The new Keynesianism All these school of thoughts have emerged mainly as a response to the criticisms that new classical economists have raised against Keynesian economics (Gordon, 1990). Due to the focus on the demand side, Keynesian economics has proved to be important especially during economic revival after recessions as was witnessed after the recent 2008-2009 global recession where most affected countries engaged in Keynesian economics by providing economic stimulus packages aimed at reviving the economy again. This is based on the Keynesian view that markets usually lack a mechanism to self correct themselves and therefore government interventions are required to restore the economy once again. References Gordon, R. J. (1990). â€Å"What Is New-Keynesian Economics? † Journal of Economic Literature 28, no. 3 1115–1171. Herod, A. (2002). â€Å"Organizing globally, organizing locally: union spatial strategy in a global economy. † In Harrod, J. Robert, O. Global Unions? Theory and Strategies of organized labor in the global political economy. London: Routledge. Neatby, H. B. (1963). William Lyon Mackenzie King, 1924-1932: The Lonely Heights. Toronto: University of Toronto Press. Plattner, M. (2002). â€Å"Globalization and Self-Government†, Journal of Democracy 13(3): 54-67. Robert, L. (2009). The Workplace and Economic Crisis: Canadian Textile Firms, 1929-1935, Enterprise and Society, Vol. 10 Issue 3, pp 498-528. Rousseas, S. (1986). Post-Keynesian Monetary Economics. London: Macmillan.

A Story Of The Tell Tale Heart

A Story Of The Tell Tale Heart Everybody loves a good story! We have been told stories since a young age; also as we grow up; we continue to be surrounded by them. However, what makes a good and interesting story? For me in order to answer this question, I have chosen three short stories to evaluate them, which are The Tell Tale Heart, The Monkeys Paw and The Landlady. The main ingredients of the three stories mentioned above are the genre, characters and the setting. The genre of the story doesnt have to be very sophisticated, but it should tell us about the aim of the story such as is the story aimed to make us laugh or cry? The Tell Tale Heart: The Tell Tale Heart is a short story is written by Edger Allan Poe in 1843. The interesting part of the story is the guilt of a mad man who hears the heart of the old man he has killed still beating. Although the readers are given a rare insight into the mind of a mad man, but what is specially of interest is that this mad man is in obvious denial of his insanity and he acts like a child who has done something wrong and knows that the readers know it. In fact it is within the first two sentences of the story that the narrator feels he must convince to the readers of his sanity but not madness Very dreadfully nervous I had been and am; but what will you say that I am mad. Another interesting point was made by the author the way in which the narrator talks fluctuate rapidly. When the narrator first defends his sanity, he seems calm, relaxed, and even intelligent. Then later like the above passage he seems to be rambling like a crazed lunatic. It is the time when he is calm in his manner of speech, which he is in his deepest state of a denial, to the time where he almost convinced of his sanity. It is interesting to note beside the obvious fact that it is impossible to hear everything in the heaven and earth, the symbolism that can be found in his speech I heard many things in hell. This statement is the narrators subconscious. After the narrator committed the murder of the old man, he started speaking about the precautions he took; precautions that he believed only a sane man could have taken. Where things really get interesting is when the narrator lunges in to kill the old man. He shrieked once-only once. The scream of the old man something that could easily be audible to the neighbours causes the narrator no anxiety. In fact the narrator almost immediately shifts its attention back to the heart. He hears the old mans heart beating furiously, terrified for his life. It is however not the old mans heart which the narrator is hearing but it is his own heart. The author does something very clever in the above part, he further portrays the narrators warped sense of reality by describing the sense of anxiety that the narrator receives from the loudness of the old mans heart, fearing that it will wake the neighbours. The greatest symbolism between a heart, the narrators super hearing and a conscience comes at the end of the story. Where the narrator manages to convince the police officers that there is nothing suspicious at the house but then the heart comes into play once again. Clearly the narrator is not hearing an actual noise, but is suffering from the manifestations of his maddened mind. Villains! I shirked, dissemble no more! I admit the deed!tear up the planks!here, here!it is the beating of his hideous heart. The narrators insanity gives him away to the police, he cant take it any longer and he cries out his guilty confession. Through the guise of the narrators madness, Poe portrays the mans consciousness as the beating of his heart. In essence the narrator is hearing a physical representation of his own guilt. The fascinating, but convoluted, point of view through which the story is portrayed is masterfully done to the point where Poe has his readers picking through the madness to separate what is actually going on, from how the narrator perceives things are going on. Poe uses symbolism and point of view as his greatest assets, and expertly portrays the order to madness. In its genius simplicity, Poe uses the narrators continuous denial to convince the reader of his undoubted insanity. The Monkeys Paw: The Monkeys Paw is a short story is written by W. W. Jacobs. The interesting part of the story begins when tragedy strikes the White Family, when Sergeant Major Morris brings a Monkeys Paw into their lives which is said to grant three wishes. This story had three main parts. These parts were the first wish, the first wish granted and the second and the third wishes. The way author has used day, night and the weather at the beginning of the story immediately captures the readers interest by explain that it is a bad day with nothing to look forward, when he says the night was cold and wet in the small parlour of laburnum villaà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦. The majority of the storys scenes happen at night, leaving only a few scenes in daylight. During the night, the weather is never pleasant and often unsettling, but during the day the weather is decent. The author purposely sets the suspenseful scenes during the nighttime leaving the reader to expect something horrible to happen. The scenes that take place during the day are not as scary and do not have the same effect as those at night. The authors main reason for setting these scenes at night is to target the readers fears. For example, the scene where Mr. White wishes for his son to come back to life is set at night to make it fearful and suspenseful. When their wish came true, it was a stormy night. There was heavy rain, thunder and lightning. If it had been set in the daylight it would not have had the same effect. The setting had been in the middle of nowhere it provides a feeling of isolation from civilization, and also when it at night it establishes the expectation that something could go wrong and therefore helps to build suspense. This makes the story better and interesting. Jacobs has made this story interesting because the reader attention got drawn into by listening to Sergeant Major Morris travels in India and the mysterious tale of The Monkeys Paw Well, its just a bit of what you might call magic, perhaps as the Sergeant Major said. Jacobs makes the tale even more intriguing by the way the Sergeant Major tells the tale about The Monkeys Paw but then goes on to being reserved about it. Another interesting part is that all the previous owners of The Monkeys Paw remain unknown, and the only thing that is revealed is that something horrible happened to them. The Sergeant Major only mentioned about one of them, as he talked about his wishes I dont know what the first two were, but the third was for death. The three wishes are also spaced just right, so that the events in the story can take place the way they do. The first wishs horrible results are enough to create more tension in the plot, but leave enough wishes for there to be hope of fixing it. The second wish serves to complicate the plot further, yet leaves the third wish as an option to fix it. The author adds depth and more excitement to the story by injecting suspense and mystery at almost every turn. From the beginning, he uses somewhat vague dialogue and intriguing character reactions to create tension. For example when Mr. White questioned the Sergeant Major about The Monkeys Paw, he replied Leastways, nothing worth hearing. This shows the Sergeant Major Morris discomfort while speaking of The Monkeys Paw draws the reader in and keeps them hooked. The audience can understand the uncomfortable history surrounding the strange talisman. This tension exponentially has increased when Morris suddenly threw The Monkeys Paw at the fire and he said Better let it burn. At this moment, the military mans true fear and hatred of The Monkeys Paw reveal themselves. The entire climax of the story also radiates pulse pounding suspense. The author controls the readers perspective and interest through the story by other methods as well. The previous owners of The Monkeys Paw are a great example of irony. Something bad happened to them, when the Sergeant Major reveals. This creates a fearful image to the readers mind and the reader is looking for something similar to happen to the Whites family. Even though the Whites expected their magical money to come falling from the sky, when Herbert said Might drop on his head from the sky. At second and third parts of the story the readers attention focuses on Mr. and Mrs. White, and not the events that take place outside their house. The reader never really sees how the wish on the paw caused their sons fatal accident, or whether or not he was brought back to life. It could all be a coincidence but because of the perspective the reader is forced to take, the story seems more sinister and powerful than it might have otherwise. This effect is used to its fullest extent when the lost son is apparently brought back to life. The knocking on the door was believed to be him, even though Mr. White didnt believe to be him, as he said to his wife For Gods sake, dont let it in, but the last wish was made before the door was opened. Its possible that he was never there at all, despite what the characters in the story believe. The author never really reveal what was the last wish but one can assume that he wished he had never made his second wish. The end of the story is open and leaves us to come up with an end of our own. Conclusion: the author has managed to use a good connection between each part of the story, which captures the readers interesting by explaining how the Whites in the beginning of the story are content, yet skeptical of the magical properties of The Monkeys Paw. Through the events of the story, their world has turned upside down, and in the end they are wrestling on the floor for control of the same Monkeys Paw. Their previous happiness is converted to despair and sorrow in just ten days. The Landlady: The Landlady is a short story which has an unexpected ending by Roald Dahl. The writer uses clever structure and effective characterization to create such a surprising and satisfactory ending. I think the author has set the time and weather in condition, which creates an atmosphere of suspense and a sinister in the story. Billy arrived in Bath at 9pm and it is a time when darkness takes over light, as dark represents evil. The moon was coming up out of a clear starry sky. This quote is associated with strong things happening creating evil as the atmosphere changes and it shows the start of a supernatural suspense. The air was deadly cold and the wind was like flat blades of ice on his cheeks. Roald Dahls word choice is excellent and chillingly describes the opening scene. By the use of words, such as: cold, deadly and blade the author gives us clues, hinting at Billys, the main character and his fate. The weather was not pleasant because the wind was sharp and deadly cold. Flat blade is associated with knife which is related to evil because it causes people to bleed when cut. Billy is seventeen; this is another good reason, which is given by the writer in the story. Why? Because it is evident from the story that Billy is mature since he is making his own sensible decisions and is starting a good job but in reality he is young and vulnerable boy. He is also sociable, handsome and generally a likable person. There are several suggestions in the paragraph to back this up. He enjoys darts, likes going out. The writer introduces him the perfect teenage boy to readers. The problem is he catches the eye of the landlady, an original and unusual character to commit murder. Roald Dahl uses the setting to the condition that without it the story wouldnt work. If it was set in the modern day we would have the problem of communication via internet or mobile phones. In the modern day Billys mum or the people receiving him in his new job would have phoned the next day when they didnt hear from him but at the time when the story is set there was a lot less communication between people and it is likely that he would not have been missed for a long while after his disappearance. Instead he is stuck, unknowingly, at a strange BED AND BREAKFAST with a psychopathic old lady but no form of communication with the outside world. That is what makes it interesting. Therefore Billys mood is unpleasant in Bath because He didnt know anyone who lived here. This shows that Billy is a lonely person in the strong city called Bath so he would have nobody to turn to for help or assistance, therefore he is not happy. Roald Dahl manages to keep us interested the whole way through. By starting with the ice-cold weather and going on to talk about the perfect, good looking teenage boy. He draws us in with enticing clues put in here and there throughout the story like little hints of horror or spookiness. Billy comes across a swanky residence with porches and pillars but the white facades were all blotchy and cracked. A slight twist, not everything is as it seems in the fancy place and all of a sudden he comes across an illuminated sign. When he looks closer in the window he sees cosy furnishings and a beautifully designed, welcoming, window. And now a queer thing happened to him, this is where the story takes and important turn when the strange and supernatural that has been building up declares itself out in the open. We think that whatever happens now cant be right. The sign BED AND BREAKFAST, BED AND BREAKFAST, BED AND BREAKFAST stops him from going away, holding him, compelling him, forcing him to stay where he was. Before he knew what was happening he had rung the bell and then at once the door was opened and he was being welcomed, almost simultaneously into a warm and comfortable house by an elderly woman, unsuspecting. In the story she is described as looking like your best friends mother. Roald Dahl also says, with good use of parenthesis, She was not only harmless there was no question about that but she was obviously a kind and generous soul. Billy obviously has complete trust in the landlady and it is clear that he doesnt expect that she is going to turn out to be mentally deranged. Gradually we get tantalizing hints as to how Billy is undoubtedly going to die (even though it is never actually said). The landlady looks Billy up and down as if she fancies him but when we look at other clues the cheap accommodation, she doesnt want to break any laws at this stage in the proceedings it seems to be something else and we want to know what. At last we see the picture coming together from all the clues we have pieced together. Billy is sure when he reads the guest book that hes heard the names before somewhere and when he thinks he is positive that they were linked in some way. When he mentions this to the landlady she changes the subject and seems unnaturally anxious to persuade him to drink his tea. Billy looks at the names and notices that the dates are over a year apart and the latest two years ago! This is very suspicious and warrants closer inspection. He asks the landlady herself about this but she says she is very choosy. What gives her plan away to the reader is when she tells Billy that they are still in the house both together. When she says, about Mr Mulholland, and there wasnt a blemish on his body, even Billy is surprised. We are finally relieved of the burden of guesswork when she tells us that both of her extremely lifelike pets are stuffed. We know that the landlady has probably been preparing to stuff Billy because of all the clues we have had and she smells funny, a mix between old leather (preserved or dried skin) and vinegar(used to preserve food by pickling), the tea tastes like almonds, a type of poison. We know whats going to happen to him and it seems as though the landlady has been waiting for the chance for some time because the bed covers were tucked back for him and a warm hot water bottle had been laid inside the bed before he arrived even though she had had no guests for two years. Roald Dahl never has to say any of this but we understand it all by the end anyway, this is what makes the story so interesting.

The Writing of Stephen King Essay -- Literature, Writers

Steven King has long been known as one of the greatest authors of all time. He has been labeled "the King of Horror" and won many awards including the Medal of Distinguished Contribution to American Letters, 6 Bram Stoker awards, 6 Horror Guild awards, 5 Locus Awards, 3 World Fantasy Awards (including a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2004), the 1996 O. Henry award, a Hugo Award in 1982 for the non-fiction Danse Macabre. He was given a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2003 by the Horror Writers' Association and, controversially, a Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters from the National Book Foundation in 2003. Upon giving the Medal to King the National Book Foundation said, But to every comment there is always a critc that has something negative to say, like Harold Bloom for instance who stated, Another critic, from norwaywrites.com, wrote in a similar sense talking about how Kings works are to the point of being unpublishable. He states, My senior Creative Writing professor in college, a National Book Award winning author, brought into us during a lecture on basic prose and readability a chapter excerpt from Stephen King's newest book at the time, Cell, and without telling us who wrote it asked us to read it and discuss. None of us had read the book yet, because apparently a college education is enough to scare people away from second rate penny stock fiction. We hated it. We marked it up, took it apart, rewrote it, and more or less declared it unpublishable before our professor informed us that it was in the New York Times Bestseller list and had already made more money than all of our college loans combined. He also states that his writings are atrocious and that "the Uncle Scrooge-esque money vault that he s... ...s he commits. This fact is only reinforced when Norton discovers Andy's bible in the safe. On the inside of the cover Andy writes, "Dear Warden, you were right. Salvation lay within. Andy Dufresne." As Norton opens the bible to the book of Exodus it is revealed that the bible had held Andy's rock hammer. The book of Exodus lends itself to Andy's own freeing of himself and the truth as Moses freed himself and the slaves. King implements a certain belief in a holy spirit so that it brings into the book that not necessarily everything is in our hands. By using this and the previously mentioned reference to blasphemies, King relates the story back to the reader. He shows that the main character is not someone out of the ordinary but a normal average person. This is what makes his horror novels scary and his other novels almost real, as mentioned in the opening paragraphs.

Kate Chopin The Storm Essay -- essays papers

Kate Chopin The Storm Kate Chopin: "The Storm" Kate Chopin lived from 1851 until 1904. She was born Katherine O'Flaherty and was raised in post- Civil War St. Louis by parents who were on the upper end of society. She married Oscar Chopin, moved to New Orleans, and had six children. After her husband died, Chopin moved back to St. Louis to start her writing career at age 33. She incorporated many taboos about literature into her writing. Some of these taboos were female sexuality, struggles, and triumph over the stereotypes that had been placed on them over the centuries. She was a very popular writer until 1898 when she wrote about even more controversial issues in Awakening. Many people felt that her views were very feminist and her previously loyal fans quickly rejected her writings, causing her to not attempt to write anything more. Chopin's short story, "The Storm," shows the reader some of the controversial issues she wrote about. It was written in 1898 and was one of the last stories that she wrote before Awakening. It tells of the struggles of one woman to find happiness and excitement in her everyday life. The reader really does not get much information on the relationship at the beginning of the story, but one can imagine that it was becoming monotonous and boring. The title itself lets the reader know that this storm is the result of a long chain of events that have built up over time, like a thunderstorm in the middle of the summer comes after many long days of intense heat. In the following paragraphs, I will discuss the events that lead to the apex of the 'storm,' the consequences that follow the decisions that are made, and how this short story could be seen as feministic. The beginning of the s... .... He is a fool and doesn't see that she 'played' him and used him to satisfy one of her desires. This story could be seen as feministic for many reasons. The way that Calixta disregards her responsibilities to her husband and son and goes after what she wants is a great example of this. Also, she doesn't get caught, had some fun, and her marriage wasn't ruined. This is an example of how Chopin felt that women should take control of their lives and change them if they aren't completely happy. Kate Chopin was a great writer who wasn't truly appreciated until years after her death. However, her views and ideas are still relevant in today's society. I also commend her for expressing her views and feelings even though she knew that the public would disagree with her. It is a shame that she was not recognized during her life as the great writer that she was.

the enlightenment :: essays research papers fc

Women are not advancing in the workplace at an appropriate rate. Sharon Webster is angry. She has been an employee at Merrill Lynch for the past 18 years immediately after graduating from college. It’s a nice job with above the board benefits and perks and an excellent health care plan. So what could be the source of her indignation? Recently, she had applied for a vacant position but was betered by a male counterpart who is less qualified and has fewer years of experience. Sounds familiar? Studies have shown that there is still widespread discrimination of women in the workplace on various levels. Globally, the work world remains generally intractable and indifferent to the socio-economic ambitions of women. The corporate creature keeps them at arm’s-length, barring them from a ‘circle of fellowship’, whose price for admission is usually a cocktail of testosterone and connections. Society usually gives us the general impression that women are rapidly climbing the ladder of commercial success. But is this really true? Th e United Nations Chartered Council shows that in the workplace 73.2% of supervisors are men while a meagre 26.8% are women. Think about that for minute-that’s a gigantic gap. And what would you say if I told that in most countries- while women make up a significant portion of the work force- they are paid significantly less than men and are subjected to sub-level positions, would this surprise you? But it is true. Women in the work place are bearing the scars inflicted by the monster of gender discrimination which are as deep as the well of tears that has also marked their struggle. This discrimination manifests itself in various ways: while they are very much present in the workplace, they are hardly securing executive and managerial positions while being highly qualified; they are often not being paid at the same level as males for the same positions. Also, due to these gender biased blows and society’s entrenched gender gap they often times develop low self-esteem. With respect to work relations, John Stuart Mill remarks, â€Å"Millions of women are enduring the brunt of gender bias in the workplace† (67). But this quote still leaves us with an abstracted sense of what is really going on; let us take a closer look at the underbelly of gender discrimination, particularly, the snubbing of scores of women for promotion even when they are more qualified than their male counterparts.

Are Boys in Crisis in Our Schools? Essay

Introduction There are many issues that concerns education that all educators should be aware of. One of those issue happens to be are boys in crisis. This is important for all early childhood educators to know because in their classroom they are going to have a class full of children and almost half of them will be boys. As teachers we should know how to help all of our students to succeed and grow up to be productive members of society. Our job as teachers is to insure that we are teaching the state standards and that the students are meeting those standards in order to move up in their education. John Dewey believed that all children learn differently and that education should not be resolved around curriculum, but it should be revolved around the abilities of the student. In the following pages I will be discussing both sides of the debate on boys’ crisis and my belief on the issue. First there are a couple articles and a book that support that boys are indeed in crisis. In each of these sources, they talk about how times have changed. It used to be known that girls were considered in crisis, but after a drastic change in the ways school are ran boys are now suffering and being place as the ones in crisis. Then there are a few articles that disagree with boys’ crisis. Most of the articles talk about how boys are doing fine and they are only a little behind academically. Also one of the articles talks boys scoring higher than girls in almost every subject. Lastly, I will reveal my beliefs on the issue as well as how I plan to implement my beliefs in my practices as and early childhood educator. The Debate There are many people in the United States whom agree with the statement boys in crisis. One article talk about how boys are getting left behind girls academically. There is a news article that talks about the gender gap and how boys are lagging. Also there is a book that discusses how boys are in crisis not girls. In the article written by Dan Haley, he talks about how girls are scoring higher than bays in almost every subject and some it is more obvious like reading and writing. He discusses how in 1992, there were study that showed that girls were being short changed by the school and how behind they were in math and science. After the media took a hold of the story of girls lagging academically, school started to change. But, instead of just catching up to the boys, they achieved higher than the boys. â€Å"A new gender gap is widening, this time in reading and writing, and boys are on the bottom end. † (Haley, 2009) Haley believes that there should be a movement for the men, just like they had for the girls. Test score showed even more how girls are better academically in many areas such as reading. â€Å"As a public policy issue, this has barely made its way into radar screen of policy makers. † (Haley, 2009) He thinks that the boys’ crisis has to do with not a how boys are being taught, but more about schools not trying to teach the children the way they learn best. â€Å"Unless k-12 leaders get serious about changing the way they teach boys, we’ll all suffer. † (Haley, 2009) Next in the news article written by David Kohn, he talks about how girls are leaving the boys behind academically in school. He starts off talking about how girls use to become nurses and teacher, but nothing high than that. After the equal opportunity laws were passed girls we able to become doctors and principal. Now a days the boys are the ones that need a little more help in school because they are lagging behind. â€Å"Far more boys than girls are found at the very bottom of the academic rank. † (Kohn, 2003) Many states have reported that boys are getting out of school and the girls taking over. It has been proven that â€Å"Girls outperform boys in elementary school, middle school, high school, and college, and graduate school. † (Kohn, 2003) He believes that boys are getting mixed message on what will make them good students and what will make them good men. Kohn talks about how boys are expected to be athletes and don’t get supported for doing well in school. â€Å"Boys are falling further behind girls in reading and writing, and still, there’s no public outcry the way there was for girls, and we wanted to find out why. †(Kohn, 2003) Boys’ crisis will not end unless people stand up for them as they once did for girls. Lastly, in the book written by Christina Hoff Sommers which talks about how the tables have turn from girls in crisis to boys. â€Å"Students who dominate the drop out list, the suspension list, the failure list and other negative indices of non-achievement in school are males at a wide ratio. †(Sommers, 2000) She talks about how boys rather rush through their homework to be able to go outside and play unlike girls who take their time to prefect their work. Boys are suffering in education more than ever because everyone believe that girls were in crisis and teachers started to focus on their needs and stop focusing on the boys needs to succeed. â€Å"Studies showing the existence of a serious educational gender gap adverse to boys began to surface. † (Sommers, 2000) The boys’ crisis also has to deal with boys not having enough contact with their teachers because they â€Å"believe that there is no one they can turn to for help† (Sommers, 2000) Sommers believes that â€Å"we should raise boys like we raise girls. † (Sommers, 2000) That way we can get them out of crisis. However, there are people that disagree with the statement boys in crisis. There are many articles that talk about boys having trouble in school, but it doesn’t mark them in crisis. There are articles that talk about how schools focus more on girl needs than on boys. Also there is a study that says that boys are scoring higher than girls in some areas. Deborah Perkins-Gough wrote an article that discussed why boy are falling behind girls in school. She believed there were many reason and one was, â€Å"today’s classrooms are too structured, ignoring boys’ energetic natures and their need for physical movement. † (Perkins-Gough, 2006) Most schools want the children to sit still and be quite in order to learn. For boys they need to be able to move around. It isn’t easy for them to be in a quite environment and that is why they are always being disciplined. In the last decade it is proven that boys are scoring higher than they did before according to the National Assessment of Educational Progress. They even say that in some areas boys are achieving higher scores then girls, but other areas they are scoring less than girls. In her article she does admit that there is a â€Å"gender gap in education attainment in the areas of grade promotion, high school graduation rates, and college attendance. †(Perkins-Gough, 2006) She talks about how education policymakers should not focus on boy crisis, but rather look at the gaps among students of different races and class. They should also take in concentration that, â€Å"In the past 30 years, the numbers of boys labeled as learning disabled or as having ADHD has â€Å"exploded†; boys now make up two-thirds of students in special education. † (Perkins-Gough, 2006) she believes that policymakers, educators, and parents should not worry about boys being in crisis because they are doing just fine. They need to be more concerned finding more reach on how to help all children learn through their learning styles. The next article discusses that boys and girls are different and that many schools are too girl friendly. In this article it talks about the point of view of Michael Gurian. He â€Å"believes that boys are not being well-served by what he calls our â€Å"girl-friendly† schools. † (It’s a male thing, 2006) 70 to 90 percent of boys are receiving grades that are no higher than D’s and F’s, that boys are 90 percent of the discipline problems and are 80 percent of the high school drops out. They also make up less than half of a college campus. In Gurian believes this has to do with the fact that schools are more girl-friendly. When he says girl friendly he means, â€Å"success in school comes more readily for students who can read and write well-areas in which girls tend to do better than boys. †(It’s a male thing, 2006) Gurian say that boys work better and learn better when they are allowed to move around. The reason they are more likely to be in trouble is because they have to sit still. He also finds single-sex classrooms beneficial because it can focus on a gender based instructions where as other look at the reduction of distraction in the classroom that you have when both boys and girls are in the same class. Gurian’s solutions for boy to be at the same level as girl is to â€Å"address the needs of boys include some physical changes in classrooms, as well as modifications in curriculum and learning materials. † (It’s a male thing, 2006) Many would not agree, but more research is being done to prove that Gurian is right. Boys are not in crisis, but need their learning styles met in order to succeed. Lastly, we have an article written by Muna Husain and Daniel Milliment talking about how boy crisis is a myth. They discuss how they â€Å"step back and assess the validity of â€Å"The boy crisis† in US primary schools by analyzing the gender gap in math and reading. †(Husain, 2009) In figuring out their conclusion that boy crisis is a myth they did a nationwide test on students from kindergarten to third grade. This test let them see if boys have gained or lost ground in the first four years of their academic careers. Even though this test is similar to how other people figure out the racial achievement gap, Husain and Millment did not just focus on the average achievement gap, but they also focused on the differences across the distribution. Conducting their test this way they end with the result that â€Å"boys outperform girls in math across virtually the entire distribution by the end of third grade, and gain ground across the entire distribution over the first 4 years of school. † (Husain, 2009) This proves that the conceptionof boy crisis in the United States is indeed unclear do to the fact boys are better in math. ? Advocacy for one side of the Debate I disagree with the statement boys in crisis for the following reasons, schools are more girl-friendly rather than boy, boys learn in a different way than girls, and depending on how a child is raised can affect how they do academically. It is true that boys are having trouble in school, but that doesn’t quite mean that it is a crisis. That just shows that boys have needs that are different to girls. When it is saying that boys are in crisis, it is actually saying that boys are in an uncertain and painful period of time that must be addressed in a timely matter in order to avoid disaster. In my opinion that does not sound like what boys are in crisis. They do need helped academically and behaviorally, but in each article I read that disagreed with boys in crisis talk about how boys are a little behind or are scoring higher in subject compared to the girls. To me this proves that boys are not in crisis. Ethical standards are always thrown around when policy makers are making new policy. What is the best way to handle certain situations? The ethical standard I believe that would best support my given position of boys’ are not in crisis would be the principal of fairness. I believe that it is unfair for schools to only meet the needs of the girls’ population leaving the boys to having trouble behaviorally. If schools were fair they would try to adapt the way students are taught to fit the needs of both the boys and girls. The UN rights of a child states in article 3 â€Å"The best interests of children must be the primary concern in making decisions that may affect them. †(UNICEF, Factsheet) I believe this support my debate because it is not in the best interest to title boys in crisis. Boys need teachers to teach them in the best way that will help them learn instead of teaching the boys like they teach the girls. Another right that the UN gives children is talked about in article 28 the right to an education. This is because boys are still learning and are benefitting from the education even though girls in some case are doing better academically. People need to realize that education means to acquire knowledge in a school type of setting and both boys and girls are doing so even at different rates. As an early child care provider I will take into consideration that boys and girls are different when it comes to the way they learn. In my classroom I will meet the needs of all my students by having times where it is quite and the students must listen to lectures. Also I will have times where students can talk to each other and move around the room doing hands on activities. This will help all of my students succeed and be on the same page. There are many leadership roles a teacher may find themselves using in their teaching career. In my practices I will be using transformational leadership because I am creating an environment that will help all of my students. Also I want to be able to inspire my students to adapt to learning together that fit everyone learning style and maybe help the students to succeed no matter how they are taught. Using this leadership in my class will help not only the students, but it will help my fellow teachers that might have my students in years to come. Also I will be providing a servant leadership because I will focus on the needs and goals of my students to achieve their potential success and above. These are the best leadership skill to enhance the way my classroom will be run and how it will benefit the students in the long run. This will also help to keep both the boys and girls falling into the category of being in crisis. References Anonymous (2006). It’s a male thing. American Teacher, Vol:90 Issue 4. From http://wilsontxt. hwwilson. com. ezproxy1. lib. asu. edu/pdffull/04575/168yt/dsv. pdf Haley, D. (2004) Leaving our boys behind. The Denver Post. Pg. B-07 From http://www. lexisnexis. com. ezproxy1. lib. asu. edu/hottopics/lnacademic/?. shr=t&csi=144565&sr=HLEAD(Leaving+our+boys+behind)+and+date+is+August,+2004 Husain, M. and Millimet, D. L. (2009). The mythical ‘boy crisis’? Economics of Education Reviewer, vol:28 Issue1 38-48. From http://www. sciencedirect. com. ezproxy1. lib. asu. edu/science? _ob=ArticleURL&_udi=B6VB9-4S7J5M1-2&_user=56861&_coverDate=02%2F28%2F2009&_rdoc=1& _fmt=high&_orig=search&_origin=search&_sort=d&_docanchor=&view=c&_acct=C000059542&_version=1&_urlVersion=0&_userid=56861&md5=969cbbac9b77650ac70954fdfbd2bfe7&searchtype=a#sec1 Kohn, D. (2003). The gender gap: boys lagging. CBS.

The Color Purple

English 102 24 April 2007 Awakening of an Abused Woman â€Å"The Color Purple† is set in the rural south and told through a series of letters written by the protagonist, Celie, chronicling her journey from pain and humiliation to triumph and rebirth. Throughout most of her life she has been treated as a servant. Her only worth as a woman is for cooking, cleaning, taking care of the family and fulfilling men’s desires. She has never been taught how to love or be loved and throughout most of the novel Celie is abused and very unhappy but she thinks that this is the way women are supposed to live. It is not until she lets women into her life, which lead Celie to her epiphany, that she realizes that she deserves more out of her life and that she is worthy of respect. Through sharing relationships with them, Celie sees how women should be treated from another perspective than what she has been taught by her family. Celie’s life is one of struggle and despair. The first line of the story is what her step father told her when she was only fourteen years old, after raping and impregnating her. This statement is so profound that it explains why she is so scared of men her whole life and emotionless to the things that are done to her. The line states, â€Å"You better not never tell nobody but God. It’d kill your mammy. † (Walker, 1). It is then that she starts writing to God. She can not tell anybody what has happened to her, not even her sister, Nettie, whom she is closest to at the time. Nettie wouldn’t even understand, she thinks, because she is younger then Celie and Celie doesn’t even understand what is going on. Celie feels the only way to go through life is to remain silent and persevere. Her only outlet is through her letters to God. Celie’s stepfather, Fonso, then marries Celie off to a widower who needs a mother for his children and someone to do the housework. The widower, Mr. ___, originally came for Nettie’s hand in marriage but Fonzo refused. Fonso gives Celie to Mr. ____ instead, telling him â€Å"She ain’t fresh†¦She spoiled. Twice. †, then he goes on to say, â€Å"She ugly. But she ain’t no stranger to hard work. † (Walker, 8). This is where Celie’s self worth is really shown to her. She feels that all she is good for is the hard work she accomplishes inside the home. The way the people closest to her talk about her in combination with all the bad things that has happened to Celie makes her feel worthless. She has very little self-worth and self-esteem. She is a product of excessive physical and mental abuse. The oppressive brutality of her life continues when she marries Mr. ___, who beats her and subjects her to a life of domestic servitude. Nettie later decides to run away from Fonso’s house because of the constant abuse towards her and decides to move in with Celie and Mr. ___. Nettie sees that life is not that much better at Celie’s house and after Mr. ____ tries to rape her she decides that she must leave there, also. Consequently, Fonso tells Celie that he will make sure her and Nettie never speak again. For many years after Nettie left she writes Celie letters, but Fonzo hides them before Nettie gets them. Fonso tries to break the only bond Celie had that brought her any happiness. It is not until Celie lets women into her life, once again, that her thinking starts to change. The first woman she becomes close to is her daughter- in- law, Sofia. Sofia is very strong and fierce, the total opposite of Celie, and she was not to be ruled over by her husband or anyone else. Sofia fights back when her husband, Harpo (Mr. ’s Son), tries to rule her with an iron fist. Sofia refuses to be oppressed despite the prejudiced society of the 1930s south in which they all live. Sofia instills in Celie a newfound strength. â€Å"Celie is so immersed in oppression, she accepts the point of view of Mr. : she advises Harpo to beat Sofia. Thus, she agrees with her oppressor in the idea that a woman should only obey, work and be silent. After this moment of deep humiliation, Celie has the first serious conversation in the book. Sofia comes to see her, furious, and Celie has to explain her attitude. She discovers she is jealous of Sofia's capacity to fight. This conversation is a new beginning for Celie. Both women find a moment of community, they do something together. The pronoun [pic]us[pic] is finally used: [pic]I laugh. She laugh. Then us both laugh so hard us flop down on the step[pic]. †(Averbach). The woman who has the most profound effect on Celie is Shug Avery, Mr. ___’s mistress whom he has three children with. The reader would probably think that Celie would be deeply hateful of her husband’s mistress. However, she is excited to meet her because Celie feels as though she is everything that Celie could never be. Her first words to Celie though were â€Å"You sure is ugly†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Walker, 46), which is probably the most dramatically reinforced proof that Celie has ever had of her own ugliness. Celie even notices that Shug calls Mr. ____ by his real name, Albert, which demonstrates to Celie that Shug is more than just a mere servant to Mr. ____ and that Mr. respects Shug unlike Celie. Mr. ____ goes out of his way to make Shug happy and shows her such respect. Celie doesn’t understand why Shug is worthy of respect but she is not. This reiterates to Celie that Mr. ___ feels like he is superior to her but not to Shug. Shug stays with Celie and Albert for a while when she is sick and Celie takes care of her until she gets better. This is when Celie and Shug bond as woman and friends. Celie is so magnetized to Shug’s independence and freedom that she loves spending this time with her. Shug is the only person, other than Nettie, who has ever treated Celie like a human being and enjoys her company. They share a romantic relationship later on, as well. The significance of Celie and Shug’s sexual relationship is that Celie learns how to be proud of her body and that she learns how to use it to enjoy sexual intercourse. Celie has never truly enjoyed intimacy with any other person. She did it simply because she felt she had to in order to make them happy. Celie becomes Shug's only true friend. Shug is a blues singer and everyone enjoys her while she is on stage or sleeping with them but when she was ill none of her so called â€Å"friends† visited her. Celie was the only one who took care of her and spent time with her when she couldn’t be the life of the party as she usually was. Shug, like Celie never had much affection in her life and never knew how to love or be loved. Shug wrote Celie a song to show her appreciation for Celie and sang it to Celie at one of her concerts. This made Celie feel so good because nobody had ever showed their appreciation for anything that she had ever done. Later on in the novel Shug finds the letters that Nettie had been writing Celie for years. Once Celie finds out that Mr. ___ hid all of Nettie’s letters from her she feels anger and betrayal towards Mr. ____ because she never felt that he would do something so hurtful to her. She was still fearful of him at this point, so she takes all the letters out of the envelopes and leaves the nvelopes, hoping that he wouldn’t find out that she had found Nettie’s letters. As she starts reading the letters she has an epiphany when she realizes that Mr. ____ tried to rape Nettie and that it was the real reason she left. She read of how Nettie was in Africa and how different it was compared to the small farm Celie has lived at most of her life. She finds out th at her sister has been taking care of her two children that she had with Fonso and that Fonso was not her real father. Now she feels she has something to live for and that she does not have to be trapped by Mr. __’s abuse anymore. She has a whole new family, that she thought before were dead. She wants to kill Mr. ____ for hiding all this from her but Shug tells her not to because if she did she would never be able to see her family. Celie eventually leaves town with Shug and Shug’s husband, Grady, to live in Tennessee. As time goes by Celie’s step father passes away and Celie finds out that her real father left her his house and a dry good business. She has found a new independence by running this store. She’s excited because now that she has a house Nettie will have a place to return to. Celie’s relationship with Shug suffers many ups and downs. Shug had moved in with Celie in her new home but left to pursue a younger man. Celie still prevails because of her newfound independence as a business woman. Shug eventually returns and lives with Celie. As Celie’s confidence is built she starts to understand and forgive Mr. _____. The strength of these women combined with their care for one another offer opportunities for all of them to continue growing, despite the racist and sexist world they live in. During the course of the book, they cry together, laugh together, affirm life together, and share one another’s joys. They respect one another. They live in a world that Celie could never have imagined when she was fourteen. Due to her experiences with Shug, Sofia, and Nettie, Celie is able to triumph over the sexual and racial oppression that smothered many of her female ancestors. Works Cited Walker, Alice. The Color Purple. New York: Harcourt, Inc. , 2003. Literature Resource Center. Averbach, Margara. 1998. Gale Group. 23 April 2007 Pifer, Lynn. Find Articles. Winter 1998. 19 April 2007 . The Color Purple

Marketing Case Study for Glitz Essay

1. What factors affect the pricing decisions for a product such as Glitzz? Analyze these factors and comment on the range of prices that can be set. The right price must generate enough sales dollars to pay for the costs of developing, producing, distributing and marketing the product as well as earn a profit for the company. There are various factors that affect the pricing decision such as objectives, demands and market forces. We will examine these factors in detail below. 1.1 Company Factors Before embarking on pricing decisions, it is necessary to understand company’s objectives. Lee Jr. and Albert are looking to achieve long-term profit making and sustainability in the market. Higher importance would then be given to obtaining increased market share and sales over immediate profit making. Glitzz needs to focus on gaining foothold in the market, as it would be a new product facing relatively established competing brands and products. As such, Glitzz should not be priced at premiums but instead work to encourage trials, consumer acceptance and return business. If successful, high profits should follow. 1.2 Consumer Factors Consumer factors such as demand for the particular product class, product or brand, price and availability of similar product, price sensitivity as well as perceptions of value can affect pricing decisions and help Lee Jr. and Albert gauge feasibility and acceptability of prices. The demand for the product is extremely important for pricing decisions. The greater the demand, the higher can the product be priced. Demand by consumers is affected by four factors. (1) Consumer Tastes (2) Price and Availability of Substitutes (3) Consumer Income and (4) Price of product. Glitzz can be classified as unsought goods; products that potential consumers do not normally want or know they can buy. These products are not searched for and do not create demand in consumers initially. Consumers of such product only buy when they perceive the necessity for it. As such, creation of awareness and education about product benefits becomes crucial for retailers and creators. This translate to the need for increased budgeting assigned to advertising strategies such as personal selling, relatively aggressive advertising and benefit demonstrations, increasing fixed overhead costs for marketing and distribution. Glitzz would be a complementary product, with its demand somewhat predicated on the prices and sales of relevant product classes such as jewelry, diamonds and watches. There is negative cross elasticity between Glitzz and the above mentioned product class, i.e. the decrease in prices of jewelry, diamonds and watches would bring an increase in demand for cleaning agents such as Glitzz. In times of recession, luxury goods such as the above may not be highly sought after, affecting Glitzz’s ability to sell due to its nature as a derived product. Pricing strategies should take into consideration market trends and demands of these product classes and be adjusted accordingly. Consumers’ perception of values and benefits provided by a product will affect the amount of money they are willing to pay in exchange for the product and their price elasticity. Assessing value involves the judgment by a consumer of the worth and desirability of a particular product relative to its substitutes. At the core level of the product, Glitzz is a jewelry cleaner, delivering to consumers the opportunity to renew and bring back the shine in their precious stones, jewelry and watches. The tangible benefits offered come from the product’s non-corrosive, non-abrasive and gentle on skin nature. Premium natural ingredients used in the making of the product are also marketed as a key attribute. The attribution values of Glitzz will translate into a definitive price that consumers deem worthy for the product. Lee Jr. and Albert have already taken steps to survey consumer market and test product responses. The NUS student researchers found that few consumers are willing to pay more than SGD20 for the product. Price and availability of similar products are also strong molding forces on pricing for new entry products such as Glitzz. Technological advances and increasingly discerning consumers meant heightened awareness about substitute products and prices. The ability to compare similar products and weigh out the benefits against cost, affects consumers’ decision-making and willingness to pay for a product. The way to mitigate such comparisons is to possess strong distinguishing characteristics from its competitors. Glitzz, however, seem to be substitutable by many alternatives in the market. An in-depth competitor analysis is as follow. Brilliant Restorer and Glitzz Brilliant Restorer and Glitzz appear to be offering analogous product benefits and have similar dispensing system and packaging. It is also under a largely established distributor brand, Gordon Max. It is distributed through channels that Glitzz is thinking of using, taking up counters at large departmental stores such as Tangs. It appears to be Glitzz’s main competitor, targeting similar markets, offering similar benefits and marketing in similar channels. Connoisseur and Glitzz Connoisseur practices product differentiation, offering a range of specialized cleaning agents for different kinds of metals. It may lose out on the convenience associated with the all-purpose Glitzz, but can market it’s specialized uses as a plus point. The company has strong advertising roots, marketing its products in mainstream newspapers and online. Glitzz may face threats stemming from Connoisseurs strong advertising efforts. Powervescent and Glitzz Powervescent is a tablet-form cleaning product, offering similar benefits at very low price. It may be less convenient to use when compared to Glitzz’s pump bottle design. Powervescent does not distribute in Singapore and is in process of setting up its e-store. While Powervescent may prove to be a competitor among price sensitive consumers in the future, its low prices may also be viewed as a reflection of its quality. As such, it may not be as big a competition to Glitzz as others. Cleaning Machines and Glitzz The second tiered competitors offer jewelry-cleaning machines with high technology performances such as the Connoisseur Jewelry Bath ($49), Savco Jewelry Cleaner ($95) and OSIM uSonic ($108). It is priced much higher than cleaning solutions such as Glitzz but seem to promise better and more targeted results. The products may be marketed at affluent consumers or retailers mostly. It is not as close a substitute as portable, self-administered cleaning products such as Brilliant Restorer. Other solutions for dirty or tarnished jewelry include common soap and toothpaste as well as free cleaning services provided by retailers as a value-add for purchases. The large number of substitutes makes demand for such products very elastic; i.e. consumers are price-sensitive and decrease in prices will lead to increase in demand for the product. Glitzz would have to pay extra attention to Brilliant Restorer and Connoisseurs as they are close substitutes and their prices will be critical in the pricing decision. Glitzz is a normal good and is relatively price elastic as compared to necessity goods or luxury goods. As such, lowering prices and keeping check with competitors’ prices becomes the key to increasing consumer demand. 1.3 Competitive Factors Pricing for Glitzz is constrained by the type of market in which it competes. Jewelry cleaning products compete in a monopolistic competition market structure. There are a number of competitors competing on both price and non-price factors. For example, Lockhart competes with its low prices in the sector while OSIM offers high technology solution as the unique selling point. Understanding the environment in which they compete will allow a deeper insight into the range of acceptable prices, extent of market differentiation and importance of advertising. In such an environment, Glitzz should allocate more budgets to advertising to distinguish itself from its competitors. This means a rise in costs and subsequently, a necessary rise in pricing. Also, its prices should strive to not deviate too much from the competing products’ prices. To be effective, pricing must work to cover the costs and make profits. It is therefore necessary to take into considerations the various costs involved in producing, packaging, marketing and distributing the product. The cost of production for Glitzz in this case includes the SGD5000 re-packaging consultation fee and the direct production cost of Glitzz cleaning solution and fees associated with packaging it into 30ml pump bottles to achieve sales state. Overhead costs may also include distribution fees such as retailer’s cut in exchange for sales services and media fees to advertise the product. Keen research and delicate mediation of all the above company, consumer and competitive factors will allow conclusion of a feasible price that is most symbolic of the value Glitzz hold. I propose a price range of SGD13 to SGD17. The ultimate upper limit as surveyed by NUS students is SGD20. The ultimate lower limit is established with the unit variable costs and other production costs in mind, which will be SGD5 at the initial stage. The recommended price ranging between SGD13 to SGD17 takes into consideration competitors’ prices, company’s objectives and consumers’ buying responses. The suggested price should work to undercut competitors’ prices and stimulate trials while not deviating too much from the market rate. This way, Glitzz can remain profitable, competitive and achieve a breakeven within a short period of time. 2. What price would you recommend for Glitzz? Why? I would recommend Glitzz be sold at SGD14. In the monopolistic competition market structure, Glitzz cannot simply establish its price as an independent company. It has to be subjected to the market demand and supply forces, causing prices to be relatively similar to its close competitors. To use a demand-oriented pricing approach, Glitzz should engage in penetration pricing. By setting a relatively lower price to its competitors, Glitzz can ensure interest and high levels of appeal during the launch stage in the market. Whether or not penetration market works is predicated on several factors. Firstly, consumer base should be relatively price sensitive. This aspect is fulfilled in the case of Glitzz. With the existence of many substitute products in the market, there is high demand elasticity. Consumers with no immediate preferences or prior experiences may make purchase decisions based on prices. By setting the price at SGD14, Glitzz can subtly undercut its competitors and establish its value. Secondly, as a new product in its introductory stage, Glitzz has to work on overcoming its weakness in terms of its new entry and unknown brand identity. Glitzz’s main objectives should then be to stimulate trials and slowly accumulate market share. Penetration pricing helps to encourage first purchases and can work hand-in-hand with quality control and good brand management to build market share. Increased volume of sales will help maximize profits for Glitzz as unit production and marketing costs falls. That being said, Glitzz products must not be priced too low and deviate too much from similar competitors. Assuming Glitzz eventually decides to market and distribute its product through large departmental stores like Robinsons, its breakeven price for the initial batch of 20,000 where total cost = profit margin will be at SGD10.50. We have to price higher than SGD10.50 to break even and lower than SGD14 to SGD17 to undercut the competition. It is not feasible for Glitzz to price its product closer to the end of SGD10.50. Firstly, it may encourage a price war where competitors engage in successive price-cutting to increase or maintain market share. This can only be detrimental to the entire industry in the long run. Secondly, Glitzz as a new company needs to have buffer in profits to invest in further marketing or advertising efforts, cope with emergency operational issues or save up for brand expansion. Also, the skimming pricing method would not work for Glitzz as its product is too homogenous and not differentiated enough to justify premium pricing. In addition, the pricing of Glitzz cleaning solution at the higher end of the SGD10.50 to SGD14 range ensures Glitzz have future opportunities and space to conduct promotional initiatives such as discounts and still be profitable. Consumers may not take kindly to products increasingly their prices after a successful intitial promotion period where low prices were offered. This may affect their perceived image of the brand and be detrimental to future sales. In essence, Glitzz product pricing must be low enough to undercut competitors to generate interest in consumers and high enough to allow profit maximization. While the penetration pricing strategy can help to build volume, managers must keep close track of the costs and monitor its effects on the market. 3. What strategy would you propose for Glitzz? What costs and expenses would be involved? Calculate the break-even point. Glitzz at its point of entrance would be at the introduction stage of its product life cycle. Here, the marketing objective should be to gain awareness. This objective is further amplified by the nature of Glitzz as an unsought good. There is high level of need for promotional and advertising efforts to inform and educate the public about the presence and benefits of Glitzz. According to past track records, Glitzz did well in promoting with in-store counters and consumer exhibitions. This has roots in the personal selling and benefits-demonstration means of promotion. I would recommend Glitzz to continue with such channels of marketing and to distribute and promote their products with departmental stores such as Robinsons. As a new product, this would allow consumers to experience the benefits of Glitzz first-hand at well-established shopping places, triggering first purchases and trials. To give a concrete example, on top of in-store distribution, Glitzz could hold demonstration booths at shopping mall forums to introduce its products. Free samples could be given out to generate brand awareness and trials. Costs involved and Assumptions made * Production cost of one bottle of Glitzz at SGD5 (Unit Variable Cost) * Branding Consultation Fee at SGD5000 (Fixed Cost) * Promotional Event at approximately SGD25000 (Fixed Cost) Amount from assuming a 3 days (6 hrs/day) promotional event at a shopping mall costing about SGD9000 in rentals, with an estimated 3000 samples to be given out and an employment of 3 sales assistants at SGD100 per day. The event will total up to about SGD$24900 * Distribution Margin for Retailers at its maximum of 50% Profit Margin * One bottle of Glitzz is priced at SGD14 Hence given the list price of SGD14, the newly incurred marketing cost coupled with the sunk cost of consultation fee will result in the breakeven point being at 15 000 bottles of Glitzz, a highly feasible goal. I believe that promotions and demonstrations should be used at the initial stage of the product launch to create awareness and inform consumers of its existence. Subsequently, advertising in other forms should follow to distinguish Glitzz from its competitors and achieve brand recognition and preference. Glitzz would have to reevaluate costs and prices to determine next marketing move then.