Is Behavioral Treatment of Obesity Effective Essay - 2

Is Behavioral Treatment of Obesity Effective - Essay Example Apart from the high cost of treating and managing obesity and the related health effects, the high prevalence of obesity increases morbidity and mortality. The obesity problem has attracted significant attention from multiple stakeholders including governments, health sector, and researchers. This has resulted in the identification of potential treatment strategies, most of which are related to preventive treatment. One of the proposed preventive treatment approaches for obesity is behavioral treatment. Apparently, obesity is widely regarded as a lifestyle health condition that can be effectively managed through altering our lifestyles. With the real health and cost effects of managing obesity, it is important to consider the effectiveness of proposed treatment approaches. The purpose of this paper is to determine whether behavioral treatment of obesity is effective by analyzing three peer-reviewed articles on the same subject. This article presents the details of an empirical study that sought to compare the effectiveness of behavioral treatment for obesity using three delivery methods including via the internet, in-person, and a hybrid of the internet and in-person. The researchers’ primary purpose of the study was to evaluate the comparative efficacy of delivering a comprehensive behavior treatment for obesity using the three methods. The secondary purpose was the evaluation of perceived social support and treatment adherence to the three treatment delivery methods. To realize these, the researchers recruited 481 overweight adult participants for the longitudinal study which lasted for a period of six months (Harvey-Berino et al., 2010).

History of the U.S. Income Tax Essay Example for Free

History of the U.S. Income Tax Essay The income tax of the United States of America, be it federal, state and local, has changed over time. Different circumstances pushed the government to create taxation and to amend the existing taxation laws. During the pre-Revolutionary War era in the 1700s, taxes were not imposed by the colonial government as their need for tax revenue did not exist. The colonies, on the other hand, had greater responsibilities therefore, had greater need for tax revenue. Because of this, different types of taxes were imposed by the colonies. The southern colonies imposed taxes on imports and exports while the middle colonies imposed taxes on property and a poll tax on each adult male. The New England colonies, on the other hand, collected taxes through property taxes, income taxes and excise taxes. When the English Parliament realized the need for money to pay for the French war, it imposed different taxes to the American colonies through the Stamp Act which was enacted in 1765. Later on, this Stamp Act was revised to include taxes for permits, newspapers, legal documents and playing cards. The Townsend Act was later on enacted by the Parliament to include taxes for paint, tea and paper . After a decade of paying taxes, there was much resistance to the tax imposed by the Parliament. During the Boston Tea Party in 1773, colonists, dressed as Native Americans, threw 342 chests of tea from a ship of the British East India Company to the Boston Harbor. In 1775, Isaac Backus during the Massachusetts Assembly said that â€Å"It’s not all America now appealing to Heaven against injustice of being taxed†¦We are persuaded that an entire freedom from being taxed by civil rulers†¦is not mere favor from any men in the world but a right and property granted us by God, who commands us to stand fast in it† . Taxation is considered as one of the factors that led to American War for Independence hence, when America gained its Independence, Article 1, Section 9, Article 4 of the U. S. Constitution in 1787 declared that there be no capitation or any direct taxes imposed on the citizens. The national government had very little responsibilities during these times and relied only on donations given by the States for its revenue. However, in 1789, the Founding Fathers realized that it could not function at its efficiency if it relied only on other governments’ donations hence the Federal Government was granted the authority to impose taxes. The sensitivity to taxation was still existing at this point in time hence the government has to be careful on how it impose taxes so as to minimize resistance from its people. Alexander Hamilton, Secretary of the Treasury in the 1790s, decided that a â€Å"sin tax† was imposed . Through the â€Å"sin tax†, only items which society thinks is deviant or vice were taxed such as distilled spirits, alcohol and whiskey. However, this still led to the armed revolt called Whisky Rebellion by a group of South Pennsylvania farmers. Still during the 1790s, the Federal Government imposed direct taxes to owners of houses, slaves and land. However, when Thomas Jefferson was elected to office in 1802, these direct taxes were removed and for the succeeding 10 years, only excise taxes were imposed. The reason for this was because he realized the inverse relationship of tax rates and tax revenue wherein the higher the taxes imposed on the citizens, the slower the economy grows hence the tax revenue declines. A cut in the rate of tax means that income for the family will become higher, expenditures become higher and hence, the economy experiences growth. During the 1812 War, the need for tax revenue resurfaced again hence taxes on the sales of gold, jewelry, watches and silver were imposed. Treasury notes were also issued to raise money. However, in 1817, the Congress revoked these taxes and for the next 40 years, government revenue was based on high customs duties and sale of government or public land . In 1861, when the Civil War erupted, the Revenue Act of 1861 was enacted. This Act restored the previous taxes on personal income. This tax was similar to the modern income tax because it was based on a gradual taxation of withholding tax from its source. A person earning $600 to $10,000 a year paid 3% tax. Persons with income higher than $10,000 paid a higher rate of tax. In 1862, the debt created by the war was rising at a rate of $2 million per day hence there was another need for the government to increase its revenue. Because of this, the Congress passed another tax imposition on items such gunpowder, playing cards, telegrams, iron, pianos, yatchs, drugs, among others. After the Civil War, the need for revenue declined and hence the income tax was abolished and only the excise taxes remained from 1868 to 1913. The War Revenue Act in 1899 was enacted to raise funds for the Spanish-American War. Government revenues, thru this Act, was raised through sales of bonds, tax imposition on recreational facilities, beer and tobacco. However, the Supreme Court realized that the people of America were becoming aware that the high tarrifs and excise taxes were not good to the economic welfare of the nation and that these taxes were usually paid by the less affluent citizens. Hence, there was an agreement that business income instead was imposed tax. By 1913, Congress enacted a new income tax law which imposes 1% to 7% for persons with income above $500,000. These people earning above $500,000 was only 1% of the total United States population . During World War I, the United States needed to increase its revenue again to fund the war. The 1916 Act raised the tax imposition from 1% to 2% and could go as high as 15% for those with income of more than $1. 5 million. By 1917, the government still needs further government revenue to pay for the war, hence the War Revenue Act of 1917 was enacted. Through this Act, exemptions were lowered and tax rates increased that those who earn $40,000 needs to pay 16% tax rate. In 1918, the tax rates were further increased. Those citizens paying 1% had to pay 6%. The highest rate in 1917 was 15% but during 1918, this was increased to 77%. Due to this increase in tax rates, government revenue increased from $761 million during 1916 to $3. 6 billion in 1918. After the war, the government revenue rose and the government decided to cut taxes to 1% bottom rate and 25% top rate . The Great Depression during the late 1920s and early 1930s pushed the government to once again increase the tax rates. The Tax Act of 1932 was enacted and by 1936, the bottom tax rate was at 4% and the top tax rate reached 79%. When the World War II came, another price hike came into place which altered the tax rates. Those with taxable income of less than $500 paid a bottom rate of 23% taxes while those earning taxable income of over a million dollars paid about 94% of taxes . The tax structure in the United States was also heavily altered in that the number of taxpayers increased from 4 million during 1939 to roughly 43 million during the World War II. Throughout all these years of implementing taxation, the government learned a very important lesson which until now is being valued by government officials and economists and has affected the tax laws enacted in the country – the marginal dollar is far more important to the economy compared to the tax rate being used. The Economic Recovery Tax Act of 1981 was implemented with this important lesson in mind. Unlike the previous taxation laws, this Act was intended to focus on marginal tax rates and it also included consumption taxes. However, due to the deep recession experienced by the country in 1982, the government was once again faced with the need to increase tax rates to overcome budget deficits. Following the 1982 recession was an economic boom which lead the country to believe that marginal tax rates are very important for a strong economy. During the Reagan administration, tax rates were further reduced and had a broader base through the Tax Reform Act of 1986. This reduced tax rate from 50% to 28% while business taxes were reduced from 50% to 35% . In 1997, the Taxpayer Relief Actof 1997 was enacted. The significant party of this Act was the Per Child Tax credit which benefited the lower-income families. During the Bush administration in 2001, the government experienced a budget surplus of about $281 billion hence a tax cut was once again conducted . This tax cut included raising the Per Child Tax Credit from $500 to $1,000 per child, as well as increased the Dependent Child Tax Credit. Until now, this tax law is being implemented and is expected to boost economic growth for the country.

black women and stds :: essays research papers

BLACK WOMEN AND STDS Many African-American women who live in rural areas do not perceive themselves as being at great risk for contracting HIV,new study results suggest. Consequently, these women may engage in more sexually risky behaviors than their urban and suburban counterparts, researchers report. "Much more work with low-income rural women of color needs to be conducted regarding HIV prevention needs and how best to respond to those needs," lead study author Dr. Richard A. Crosby of the Rollins School of Public Health at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, told Reuters Health. "This is an important population of women who can clearly benefit from increased HIV prevention efforts." Crosby and his team surveyed 571 low-income African-American Missouri residents. About one quarter of the respondents lived in rural counties, while the majority lived in urban or suburban areas. Rural women were twice as likely as urban or suburban women to say that they did not have a preferred way to prevent HIV or sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), because they "don't worry about HIV or STD," the investigators report in the April issue of the American Journal of Public Health, journal of the American Public Health. The women who lived in rural areas were also two times more likely to report never using condoms or not using condoms because they believed that their partner did not have HIV--regardless of whether or not their partner had actually been tested for the virus. And these women were twice as likely to report that their past or current partner had not been tested for HIV. "Because this belief (that their partner did not have HIV) was based on something other than the partner's HIV test, the finding suggests that rural women may be more likely than non-rural women to 'take their partners' word' that they are HIV negative," the authors write. Rural study participants were about half as likely as their non-rural counterparts to report that they had ever been diagnosed with syphilis or gonorrhea. They were also about twice as likely to report not having received counseling about HIV during their last pregnancy, the report indicates. Overall, however, the reason for the discrepancy in HIV beliefs and prevention practices between urban and rural women may be because "HIV is less salient, as a threat, among rural women," Crosby speculated.

Intimate Partner Violence Essay

Intimate partner violence is sometimes common in relationships, and many partners in the relationship, usually the male, will demonstrate acts of violence against his mate. There are various categories where violence falls, such as stalking, mental abuse, sexual abuse and physical abuse. We can find intimate partner violence in all groups of people which include, economic, social, ethnic, racial and many types of cultural group. Acts of violence can take place between one individual in the relationship or both. Usually there are links between intimate partner violence and different aspects that generally affect the relationship, where economic, psychological and social conditions contribute to the number of incidents reported to authorities. The impact of intimate partner violence varies, usually in the type and severity of abuse. Individuals who are vulnerable due to physical, psychological, economic, or social conditions or who have experienced prior victimization may be even more severely affected than those with financial resources, good health, favorable environments, and no other significant stressors or health problems. However, intimate violence can be traumatic for anyone. In some cases, the effects of prior intimate partner violence can be triggered for the first time or after a long period of remission months or years after the actual occurrence of violence has stopped. Intimate partner violence needs to be further investigated to find solutions. We learn from the Department of Justice Statistics Report, that â€Å"Statistics about intimate partner violence (IPV) vary because of differences in how different data sources define Intimate Partner Violence, (IPV). For example, some definitions include stalking and psychological abuse, and others consider only physical and sexual violence. Data on IPV usually come from police, clinical settings, nongovernmental organizations, and survey research. † There are many definitions of violence, and this is taken into consideration when statistics are completed. We also learn that, â€Å"Most IPV incidents are not reported to the police. About 20% of IPV rapes or sexual assaults, 25% of physical assaults, and 50% of stalkings directed toward women are reported. Even fewer IPV incidents against men are reported (Tjaden and Thoennes 2000a). Thus, it is believed that available data greatly underestimate the true magnitude of the problem. While not an exhaustive list, here are some statistics on the occurrence of IPV. In many cases, the severity of the IPV behaviors is unknown. † We are told by (Heise and Garcia Moreno, 2002) that, â€Å"Traditional gender norms (e. g. , women should stay at home and not enter workforce, should be submissive)† There are many males who often desire for their partners to stay out of the social and workforce realm and often violence is acted out toward spouses when they don’t give up any social attachments. Heise and Moreno tell us that, â€Å"Some factors that are common in intimate relationships that are violent include: 1. Couples with income, educational, or job status disparities 2. Dominance and control of the relationship by the male 3. Some community factors associated with intimate violence are: 4. Poverty and associated factors (e. g. , overcrowding) 5, Low social capital—lack of institutions, relationships, and norms that shape the 6. Quality and quantity of a community’s social interactions 7. Weak community sanctions against IPV (e. g. , police unwilling to intervene)† We learn from The Federal Government Source for Women‘s Health Information (womenshealth. gov. 2006) that, â€Å"One in four women report that they have been physically assaulted or raped by an intimate partner. These crimes occur in both heterosexual and same-sex relationships. Physical and emotional trauma can lead to increased stress, depression, lowered self-esteem and post-traumatic stress disorder (an emotional state of discomfort and stress connected to the memories of a disturbing event). † We also learn that, â€Å"Violence against women by anyone is always wrong, whether the abuser is a current or past spouse, boyfriend, or girlfriend; someone you date; a family member; an acquaintance; or a stranger. You are not at fault. You did not cause the abuse to happen, and you are not responsible for the violent behavior of someone else. † No matter who commits the violence in the relationship, (male or female), or the age of the victim in the intimate partnership, it is wrong. We also learn that, â€Å"Women of all ages are at risk for domestic and intimate partner violence and face similar challenges when trying to leave an abuser, like feelings of shame and money concerns. However, women who are 55 years and older and are abused face unique challenges. These women grew up and married during a time when domestic abuse was often ignored. Now, at an older age, they have endured many years of abuse and may have problems with poor self-image and shame. Older women who have been abused also are less likely to tell anyone about it; have health problems that keep them dependent on their abusive partner; feel committed to caring for their abusive aging partners; and are fearful of being alone. † We also learn from sources with the Department of Health and Human Resources that, â€Å"Many individuals who are abused in the relationship often stay because they feel obliged to stay out of loyalty or because of fear. Violence in the home doesn’t just affect the person being abused; it affects everyone in the home, including children. Children may witness abuse in a number of different ways. 1. They may be in the room and see their mother being abused. 2. They may hear their parents fighting. 3. They may see the aftermath of the abuse when they see their mother’s bruises. Studies have shown that children who grow up in violent homes are more likely to withdraw and have behavioral problems. As they get older, these children often blame themselves for not stopping the abuse. This can lead to further withdrawal, depression, and substance abuse. Children who grow up in abusive homes are more likely to become abusers or be abused themselves. A boy who grows up with a father who beats his mother tends to see women as weak and submissive and repeat the cycle of abuse in his own relationships. A girl who sees the abuse of her mother is likely to think that abuse is part of a normal relationship and become involved with an abuser herself. Intimate Partner Violence needs to be addressed. Too many individuals fall victim to this type of violence in a partnership and studies show that many factors contribute to this abuse. Many individuals who have never been in an abusive relationship wonder, â€Å"Why doesn’t she leave? † There are many reasons why individuals may not leave an abusive relationship. She may possess little or no money and have no way to ultimately support herself and her children or she may reach out for help only to find that all the local domestic violence shelters are full. She may not be able to contact friends and family who could help her. Or she may worry about the safety of herself and her children if she leaves. There must be resources for these individuals to turn to when violence is apparent in the intimate relationship. If you are being abused or have a loved one who is being abused, get help. Don’t ignore it. It won’t go away. Keep in mind, you’re not alone. Many women are victims of domestic abuse. There is help out there for victims of domestic abuse in intimate partner relationships. Contact your local women’s shelters in your area for advice and protection. Without help, abuse will continue and could worsen. Many resources are available to help you understand your options and to support you. No one deserves to be abused Typically each time the abuse occurs, it worsens, and the cycle shortens. Breaking this pattern of violence alone and without help is difficult. It’s always important to recognize that you may not be in a position to resolve the situation on your own. You may need outside help, and that’s OK. Without help, the abuse will likely continue. Leaving the abusive relationship may be the only way to break the cycle. Reference Page Heise, L, Garcia-Moreno. (2002) †Violence Against Intimate Partners†. World Report on Violence and Health. P. 87-121 The Department of Health & Human Services. (2006). â€Å"Violence Against Women†. womens health. gov. Tjaden, Thoennes P. (2000). â€Å"Full Report: Violence Against Women Report†. Department of Justice.

Romeo and Juliet Diary Entries

Dear diary, as it is the first time I am writing to you, I would like to tell a little concerning myself. My name is Romeo, and I come from the Montague family, with my dad Mr. Montague and my mum Lady Montague. I am sixteen. Not that I have a high regard for myself, but I have to say that I am quite attractive, bright and sensitive. I live in the middle of a fierce fight between my family and the Capulet’s. This battle has started ages before I was born, and will keep on going for generations and generations. Sincerely, I think that this fight is foolish, and that violence doesn’t make thing different and by no means will between our two families. I take the Capulet’s as equal to us, and nothing will alter my mind. I feel that this day couldn’t get any worst for me. You see I like this girl from the name of Rosaline, but she doesn’t return her affection towards me. This made me miserable for the whole day, and I had not the desire to see any people. I went around the region, and went into profound thinking and came to the point that there was no more point of breathing if I could never get will my beloved Rosaline. The only person informed about my love for her is my dearest cousin â€Å"Benvolio†. I told him how I felt, and how I couldn’t live without her, and he gave me the advice of going with him tonight at the masked party at the Capulet’s mansion. Dear diary I hope my cousin is right and if not what should I do? 21 April Dear diary, I am writing to tell you that I have forgotten about Rosaline in my heart and that at ball, at the Capulet’s I have fallen in love, from the first moment I saw her, and she unclasp my heart, and treed it from the thing I thought I loved and fixed it only on her. You see the moment I laid sight upon her; she engulfed my feelings upon her, and made me forget about Rosaline. The only shocked I had was after the tender kissed I got from laying my lips on hers, was that I later on learned that she was a Capulet. She is a thirteen-year-old girl, she is one of the most gorgeous girls I have ever laid eyes on, and her eyes reminded me of starts lighting upon a dark night. Even though she is of the enemy family, I thought that in any cases love was possible, and that without letting both siblings know I could forever be with her, and that in any cases we could run away together. On that night, after the ball, I have left both Benvolio and Mercutio and went climbing up her balcony, and from both side we exchanged our vows. When she was done with hers, I stopped her mouth with a kiss after having heard enough, and my heart was beating so fast that the night with her passed so fast till the moment I had to leave, which made it hard to take out my sight upon her perfect shadow. 25 April A few days later, I had gone through some with Juliet, and I finally think she is the one I want to be with. I hurried early in the morning to Friar Laurence who for me is some kind of second father, and at the same time a best friend which I tell everything to. He is quite old, and works in a small church in the middle of a field of roses. When I arrived their, I jumped in his arm, and him exited to see me, I thought it would be a good moment to actually express my feelings for Juliet. But after I have told him that I have no more feeling for Rosaline, but for the Capulet’s daughter, he turned his head away from me, and kept on walking. He then stopped and told me that what I am doing will just make the relation between both family more complicated, but the more he thought of it, the better it was for both families, so he agreed to the marriage, and on very special day we got married. 27 April Dear diary, after I have thought that nothing could ruin the joy that I had in my heart for a couple of days, well it actually did. When I went to see Benvolio and Mercutio to tell them some of the good news, well there was a fight going on in the center of the village. Tybault, which is Juliet cousin, came to our territory, and asked for trouble, and Mercutio which could not refuse a fight, decided to fight against Tybault, which I tried to make it not happen, but by falling, the fight ended by dearest Mercutio to die in my hand from Tybaults sword. Without any pretoughts, I rushed to Tybault and killed him as revenge towards Mercutio. And this is when everything turned into hell. As the prince kept on saying, that if by any means a fight was happening between then two families, the one responsible was ask to be killed. So after having killed Tybault I thought that the best idea was to flee and go hide somewhere outside the region where nothing could happen. But would Juliet be ok? How would she get any of my news? What should I do? 02 May It as been five days since I didn’t see my beloved Juliet, and I am going crazy without her. I keep asking myself those questions, if everything is ok on her side. I would do anything to go back in the past and change the fight which happened. Friar told me that I should stay where I am and not move till I get a letter from him, telling me that everything would be back as usual, except that I would have to run away with my love. I would do anything to see her again, I wouldn’t mind running away till the other side of our planet. The only thing I now must be worried about is whether she is ok, and if everything will go according to plan. I have sent a loyal friend to look on Juliet while I stay and hide in the hut which I am standing in right now, and see whether everything is ok on her side. But when he came back a couple of minutes earlier, he told me that he saw Juliet dead†¦When I heard that I thought that I was gone for, I was already seeing the life falling behind me and that it is impossible that this could have happened. So without the Friar letter, I will think I would have to go to the graveyard and see whether what I heard is in fact true. Next time I will be writing in this diary I would tell how I in fact managed to run away with my Juliet and that we would for ever live happily ever after.

dad essays

dad essays Eudora Weltys A Worn Path is a story that emphasizes the natural symbolism of the surroundings. As the story begins, we are introduced to our main character, Phoenix Jackson; she is described as a small, old Negro woman. I believe that the name Eudora Welty gives our main character is very symbolic. The legend of the Phoenix is about a fabled sacred bird of ancient Egyptians. The bird is said to come out of Arabia every 500 years to Heliopolis, where it burned itself on the altar and rose again from its ashes, young and beautiful. Phoenix, the women in the story, represents the myth of the bird because she is described as being elderly and near the end of her life. Phoenix can hardly walk and uses a cane made of an old umbrella to aid her. Her skin is described as old and wrinkly, but yet with a golden color running beneath it Her skin had a pattern all its own of numberless branching wrinkles and as though a whole little tree stood in the middle of her forehead, but a golden color r an underneath(55). Her skin tone represents the golden feathers of the Phoenix and her grandson represents the next Phoenix that will be given life when she dies. The trip to the city to get the medicine represents the mythological trip that the Phoenix takes to the sun to die. Most likely this journey along a worn path through the woods, will be one of her last. We are told of Phoenixs journey into the woods on a cold December morning. Although we are know that she is traveling through woodland, the author refrains from telling us the reason for this journey. In the midst of Phoenixs travels, Eudora Welty describes the scene: Deep, deep the road went down between the high green-colored banks. Overhead the live-oaks met, and it was as dark as a cave (Welty 55). The gloomy darkness that the author has created to surround Phoenix in this scene is quite a contrast to the small Negro womans positive ou...

How To Use Cuando in Spanish

How To Use Cuando in Spanish Cuando or its question form, cundo, is the Spanish word used most often for when. It can be used as an interrogative pronoun, subordinating conjunction, or preposition. Fortunately, its use is usually straightforward for Spanish students because as a pronoun or conjunction it is used in much the same way as the English word. Cundo in Questions In questions, cundo is always used with a verb in the indicative mood, the most common type. As in the final two examples, cundo can also be used in indirect questions.  ¿Cundo pasà ³ el cometa Halley por à ºltima vez? (When did Halleys comet last pass by?) ¿Cundo es Semana Santa en Espaà ±a este aà ±o? (When is Holy Week in Spain this year?) ¿Hasta cundo dura la ola de frà ­o? (How long will the cold wave last? Literally: Until when will the cold wave last?) ¿Cundo ganarà © la loterà ­a? (When will I win the lottery?)Quieren saber cundo voy a dar a luz. (They want  to know when Im going to give birth.)No entiendo cundo se usan las palabras por y para. (I dont understand when the words por and para are used.)No sabemos cundo aprendià ³ a atarse los zapatos. (We dont know when she learned to tie her shoes.) Note how cundo is spelled with an orthographic accent. The accent doesnt affect its pronunciation. Cuando as a Subordinator When cuando is used used to introduce a clause (a series of words that could be a sentence but form a longer phrase starting with cuando), either the indicative or subjunctive mood can be used in that clause. The choice of moods depends on whether the action of the verb has been completed. As a subordinating conjunction, cuando - usually translated as when or whenever - typically is followed by a verb in the indicative mood when that verb refers to something that has already occurred or is occurring in the present. The present includes referring to an event that has occurred and could continue to occur. Boldface verbs in these samples indicate the subordinate verb in the indicative mood: Recuerdo cuando llegaron mis padres. (I remember when my parents came.)La à ºltima vez fue cuando dos miembros del equipo fueron detenidos. (The last time was when two members of the team were arrested.)Ana cometià ³ dos errores cuando comprà ³ la bicicleta.  (Ana made two mistakes when she bought the bicycle.)No hay nada que hacer cuando la và ­ctima ya est muerta. (There is nothing to do when the victim is already dead.)Nadie me paga cuando estoy enfermo. (Nobody pays me when Im sick.)Come cuando tengas hambre, no sà ³lo cuando el reloj dice que es hora de comer. (Eat when you are hungry, not just when the clock says its time to eat.)Cuando vamos a la ciudad siempre es porque hay mil cosas que hacer allà ­. (When we go to the city it is always because there are a thousand  things to do there.) In contrast, the present-tense subjunctive mood typically follows cuando when verb referring to an action or state of being that has yet to occur. Note how use of the subjunctive isnt accompanied by a corresponding verb change in the English translation.  Boldfaced verbs here are in the subjunctive: Llegaremos cuando debamos y no antes. (We will arrive when we should and not before.)Mà ­rame a los ojos cuando hables.  (Look in my eyes when you speak.)Despià ©rtame cuando lleguen tus amigos. (Wake me up when your friends arrive.)Vamos a hacerlo cuando seamos capaces. (We are going to do it when we are capable.) ¿Quà © voy a hacer cuando està © viejo? (What am I going to do when I am old?)Cuando vayamos a la ciudad sea porque habrn mil cosas que hacer allà ­. (When we go to the city, it will be because there will be a thousand things to do there.) Cuando as a Preposition Although not particularly common, cuando also can be a preposition. In these instances, cuando means at the time of, although you may have to improvise with the translation rather than translating word for word. Voy a estar triste cuando insolvencia. (Ill be sad when an insolvency occurs.)No he pensado cà ³mo serà © cuando adulto. (I have not thought of how Ill be as an adult.)Apaga la llama cuando hervir. (Turn off the flame when boiling occurs.) Key Takeaways When cundo is used in a question to mean when, a written accent is used with the .Cuando (without a written accent) is frequently used to introduced a clause that can be in either the indicative or subjunctive mood.Unlike the English when, cuando is sometimes used as a preposition and cannot be translated directly.

Texas AM University Commerce Admissions Data

Texas AM University Commerce Admissions Data Admissions Overview: Students interested in Texas AM - Commerce should note that, while the school admits under half of applicants each year, students with solid grades and test scores still have a good chance of being admitted. To apply, those interested will need to submit (along with an application) SAT or ACT scores and official high school transcripts. Admissions Data (2016): Texas A M University - Commerce Acceptance Rate: 46%Test Scores 25th / 75th PercentileSAT Critical Reading: 430 / 540SAT Math: 440 / 540SAT Writing: - / -What these SAT numbers meanACT Composite: 18  / 23ACT English: 18 / 25ACT Math: 17 / 24What these ACT numbers mean Texas AM University Commerce Description: Founded in 1889, Texas AM University-Commerce is a public, four-year university located in Commerce, Texas, about an hour northeast of Dallas. AM-Commerce offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide range of fields, and the university also has extensive online educational options. High achieving students should check out TAMUCs honors program which gives full-tuition scholarships to 50 Honors students every year. Academics at TAMUC are supported by an 18 to 1 student / faculty ratio. Texas AM-Commerce is home to some very interesting intramural sports including Trivia Bowl, a Madden Tournament, and something called Cornhole. The university also has over 120 student clubs and organizations, and an active system of fraternities and sororities. For intercollegiate athletics, AM-Commerce Lions compete in the NCAA Division II  Lone Star Conference  (LSC) with five mens and seven womens sports. The university also has a rodeo program and cheer and dance teams. Enrollment (2016): Total Enrollment: 13,514  (8,318 undergraduates)Gender Breakdown: 40% Male / 60% Female72% Full-time Costs (2016 - 17): Tuition and Fees: $7,750  (in-state); $19,990 (out-of-state)Books: $1,400 (why so much?)Room and Board: $8,270Other Expenses: $3,413Total Cost: $20,833  (in-state); $33,073 (out-of-state) Texas AM University Commerce Financial Aid (2015  - 16): Percentage of New Students Receiving Aid: 90%Percentage of New Students Receiving Types of AidGrants: 78%Loans: 60%Average Amount of AidGrants: $9,617Loans: $5,799 Academic Programs: Most Popular Majors:  Business Administration, Exercise Science, General Studies, Interdisciplinary Studies, Liberal Studies, Psychology, Social Work Transfer, Graduation and Retention Rates: First Year Student Retention (full-time students): 63%Transfer Out Rate: 30%4-Year Graduation Rate: 24%6-Year Graduation Rate: 43% Intercollegiate Athletic Programs: Mens Sports:  Football, Golf, Basketball, Track and Field, Cross CountryWomens Sports:  Golf, Soccer, Volleyball, Track and Field, Cross Country, Basketball Data Source: National Center for Educational Statistics Interested in Texas AM University Commerce? You May Also Like These Colleges: Texas Tech University: Profile | GPA-SAT-ACT GraphUniversity of Texas at Arlington:  ProfileUniversity of North Texas:  Profile  |  GPA-SAT-ACT GraphBaylor University:  Profile  |  GPA-SAT-ACT GraphWest Texas AM University: ProfileSam Houston State University:  ProfileTexas Christian University:  Profile  |  GPA-SAT-ACT GraphTexas AM University Main Campus:  Profile  |  GPA-SAT-ACT GraphStephen F. Austin State University:  ProfilePrarie View AM University:  ProfileTexas AM University-Corpus Christi:  ProfileUniversity of Houston:  Profile  |  GPA-SAT-ACT Graph Texas AM University Commerce Mission Statement: mission statement from  tamuc.edu/aboutUs/ourMission/default.aspx Texas AM University-Commerce provides a personal, accessible, and affordable educational experience for a diverse community of learners. We engage in creative discovery and dissemination of knowledge and ideas for service, leadership, and innovation in an interconnected and dynamic world.

Issues In Criminology Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3250 words

Issues In Criminology - Essay Example 295). Intense gender discrimination, like the refusal of numerous law schools to give access to women, the frequent segregation of women from juries, and the habit of imposing to female and male ‘offenders’ different punishments for the same offences went mostly unquestioned (Lanier & Henry, 1998, 279). The scale of the victimisation of girls and women indicated that the lack of attention on the role of violence in the lives of women was the prime issue to appeal to the interest of feminist scholars and advocates. Due to this, a large volume of literature exists on the issue of victimisation of women, particularly in the subject matters of sexual abuse, sexual harassment, and domestic violence. Meanwhile, the identification of the breadths and forms of female victimisation had a considerable influence on policy making, and it is perhaps the most concrete contribution of radical feminism to mainstream criminology (Almeder, Koertge & Pinnick, 2003, 18). The influence of cr iminology and especially criminological theory was varied, although, partly because these crimes did not at appear to challenge. The impact on the field of criminology and particularly criminological theory was mixed, however, in part because these offenses did not initially seem to dispute androcentric criminology as such (ibid, p. 18). Rather, the notions of ‘victimology’ and ‘domestic violence’, while crucial in the development of feminist perspective of criminology, also provided mainstream criminologists and several practitioners of criminal justice an alternative way of understanding criminology theory and research (Flavin, 2001). The objective of this essay is to discuss the development of feminist criminology, focusing on the post-war period, especially the 1960s and 1970s. More particularly, the essay will focus on the contribution of the three feminist perspectives, namely, (1) feminist empiricism, (2) standpoint feminism, and (3) feminist postmod ernism to British criminology theory and research. Feminist Perspectives of Criminology Feminist perspectives have remarkably grown in areas that have more established practices of interpretive knowledge like history and literature (Flavin, 2001). On the contrary, the tradition of criminology persists to be profoundly ingrained in the scientific method (ibid, p. 273). A great deal of British mainstream criminology is founded on principles that ‘science is value neural’ (Flavin, 2001, 273). Research can be duplicated, as argued by positivism, since researchers generate knowledge in related ways, making criminologists similar with each other (Almeder et al., 2003, 20). Richard Powers of the New York Times recognised the ‘vesting of authority in experiment’ (Flavin, 2001, 274) as the most outstanding thought of the new century. Yet, Powers (1999) argued that scholars â€Å"from Ludwig Wittgenstein to Thomas Kuhn and beyond† (ibid, p. 81) have mentioned, ... that fact and artefact may be closer than most empiricists are comfortable accepting... That great empiricists have rejected initial data on hunches, until their observations produced more acceptable numbers. That

The cause(s) of the Civil War Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

The cause(s) of the Civil War - Research Paper Example This meant a reduction in human labor. On the hand, cotton became very profitable, and many of the southern agricultural areas shifted from other crops to cotton farming, almost making the states a one crop economy, and thus requiring a lot of cheap human labor to meet the great demand and to maximize on profits. This cheap labor was readily available to the landowners in the south in the form of slaves while the north did not require them due to industrialization.2 These differences made the two areas to assume different economic ways of life, with the northern economy becoming city based while the southern continued to be plantation based. This meant that the people in the north evolved into a culture where people of different cultures could work together while those in the south continued to hold unto slavery since they needed the slave labor. The people in the north started to condemn slavery as immoral while the south embraced the same due to their need of massive slave labor, c ausing friction between the north and south. The political leaders of the southern states such as Robert Barnwell and William Lowndes realized that if the slave ownership was abolished in the south, then the southern economy would probably collapse if the slaves were to be paid the high wages that white workers were being paid and thus, they vehemently opposed the idea. Leaders in the north, some of whom were also religious personalities or newspaper personalities opposed the idea of slave ownership on the grounds of morality. Some of these personalities were like William L Garrison who was powerful crusaders for the abolition of the practice. The other issue that was instrumental in causing the civil war was the States versus federal Government’s rights issue. From the time of the American Revolution while states sought autonomy, there emerged two sides, one that advocated for states to have greater rights and the other that the federal government be granted more control.3 T hose that felt that the states should have greater rights like Thomas Jefferson and others agitated for the idea, resulting into the nullification idea, where the states sought to be allowed to have the rights to rule some federal acts unconstitutional. The federal government refused to cede to this demand, which led to the cessation of 11 states from the union of the states leading into the war.4 There also was the fighting between states that approved slavery and those who did not in newly acquired lands as one of the causes of the war. America started to expand after the Louisiana Purchase whereby America purchased 800000 square miles of land at a cost of 15million dollars during the tenure of former president Thomas Jefferson, and also after the Mexican war.5 There arose conflict after this as to whether the new areas admitted to the union, would have slavery or would be granted freedom. Problems arose, for example, when those who advocated for slavery in Missouri known as †Å"border Ruffians† started to come into the state to assist in forcing the state to become a slavery zone. Conflict also occurred in Kansas which made the place be called â€Å"bleeding Kansas† because of the magnitude of the bloodshed in the quest to have this area embrace slavery. The fighting

Summaries Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Summaries - Assignment Example The sunject matter must have been significant to induce interest and evidence is necessary ti establish credibility into critical thinking because only truth can attract critical thinking. Understanding relationships between historical events and insights into moral judgment over the events are also significant to a critical approach to understanding history. These features therefore facilitate historical thinking and its significance. 3. Challenges facing teachers of history identify another salient feature of the reading and includes need for many sources, framing history in a complex way and dealing with many alternative perspective. The need to overcome the challenge towards historical thinking makes it important. The scope also establishes a base for promoting history should teachers overcome the challenges. 4. The need to differentiate history from the past, as a way to introduce history to students is another salient idea in the reading. Organized nature of history, unlike the past, is likely to capture students’ interest and help them become historical thinkers. The most interesting passage in the reading is the introductory dialogue among Tony, his wife, and his son. Each of the parties holds positions that allows the reader to identify the need for an in-depth understanding of history, not just presented facts. I also believe that the passage develops interest into the reading’s theme of historical thinking. The reading’s title develops a theme of offering an introduction to historical thinking and its illustration and topics achieves this. by completing the reading, the audience develops background information of historical thinking and interest in it. 1. One of the reading’s salient ideas is the peaceful independence process for Canada. The reading explains that the colonial authority voluntarily ceded their authority over Canada to the Natives in a bid to prevent external

A New Line of Organic Products for an Existing Company Assignment

A New Line of Organic Products for an Existing Company - Assignment Example This essay stresses that Auntie Anne’s is regarded as one of the most successful pretzel makers which is recognized in many parts of the world. The company successfully caters to large groups of consumers through its distinctiveness in maintaining quality and freshness of its broad assortment of products. Thus, the theme of this research is to devise an appropriate marketing plan that is to be utilized for launching three different products i.e. Cocoa dusted chickpeas, flavored hazel-nuts and kale chips by Auntie Anne’s. One of the severe challenges that Auntie Anne’s might face is to maintain the freshness and quality of the products while delivering to the consumers. The company specializes in fast packaging of the products. Auntie Anne’s packs food products which are taken out of hot ovens and wrapped almost after 30 minutes following the baking of snacks. This process is followed in a very fast manner as the company focuses not only on packing the prod ucts but also preserving the freshness along with those. This article makes a conclusion that in order to get into a conclusion, a proper marketing plan was designed which reflected the overall strategies that is needed to be undertaken by Auntie Anne’s in order to launch its new organic products in the market. It can be stated that the devised marketing plan would eventually support the company to accomplish its predetermined business targets in terms of successfully introducing new line of organic products in the business markets where it operates. ... The marketing plan can provide a distinct idea about the current business status of the company and it will also help in analyzing the need and demands for new organic products by the consumers. In addition, the plan will prove to deliver great aid in developing a clear picture about the competitors of the company and the current buying behavior of organic products by the consumers. Thus, all these facets will deliver a lot of clarity for launching the products in a diversified manner. With this concern, this paper will consist of designing a marketing plan for introducing as well as promoting a new line of organic products on behalf of Auntie Anne’s that would comprise cocoa dusted chickpeas, flavored hazel-nuts and kale chips. The plan would entail all relevant marketing strategies that will be required to be undertaken by the company for ensuring a proper launch of the aforementioned products in the business markets where it operates. Moreover, efforts will be made to ident ify the potential areas and specific segments where these products could be launched backed up with the formulation of an appropriate marketing plan. The steps that are needed to be undertaken for launching the products will primarily be based upon the product’s characteristics. Evaluation of Current Business Prospects of the Organization The current business prospects of Auntie Anne’s are set to be flowing in a very customer oriented manner. There are numerous prospective factors, which the company is currently working upon. The main factor is that the company is intending to create a level of distinctiveness in order to satisfy the customers by complying with their requirements by a considerable level. The products that manufacture by Auntie Anne’s are

Exam Two Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Exam Two - Essay Example The United States would introduce new war tactics such as chemical weapons and aircrafts (Foner 67). For this reason, the American troops contributed significantly to the high number of casualties and deaths resulting from the First World War. In the Second World War, the United States also played a critical role by continuing to use the tactics it had introduced in the First World War. The United States used the Second World War to gain global dominance and emerged as a superpower demanding respect from the rest of the world. America’s commitment to capitalism and its formation of allies supporting the ideology was one of the main concepts defining the cold war. The cold war period saw numerous wars and revolutions staged by communists and capitalists. In 1953 to 1968, America would become an affluent society with a rich popular culture that influenced other parts of the globe (87). America’s cultural influence in other continents was recognized well in the 1960s. In 1989, globalization became a reality a factor that saw the United States culture penetrating to multiple regions of the globe. After 2001, America’s contribution to fighting terror and its participation in the nuclear weapons debate has redefined global

A New Line of Organic Products for an Existing Company Assignment

A New Line of Organic Products for an Existing Company - Assignment Example This essay stresses that Auntie Anne’s is regarded as one of the most successful pretzel makers which is recognized in many parts of the world. The company successfully caters to large groups of consumers through its distinctiveness in maintaining quality and freshness of its broad assortment of products. Thus, the theme of this research is to devise an appropriate marketing plan that is to be utilized for launching three different products i.e. Cocoa dusted chickpeas, flavored hazel-nuts and kale chips by Auntie Anne’s. One of the severe challenges that Auntie Anne’s might face is to maintain the freshness and quality of the products while delivering to the consumers. The company specializes in fast packaging of the products. Auntie Anne’s packs food products which are taken out of hot ovens and wrapped almost after 30 minutes following the baking of snacks. This process is followed in a very fast manner as the company focuses not only on packing the prod ucts but also preserving the freshness along with those. This article makes a conclusion that in order to get into a conclusion, a proper marketing plan was designed which reflected the overall strategies that is needed to be undertaken by Auntie Anne’s in order to launch its new organic products in the market. It can be stated that the devised marketing plan would eventually support the company to accomplish its predetermined business targets in terms of successfully introducing new line of organic products in the business markets where it operates. ... The marketing plan can provide a distinct idea about the current business status of the company and it will also help in analyzing the need and demands for new organic products by the consumers. In addition, the plan will prove to deliver great aid in developing a clear picture about the competitors of the company and the current buying behavior of organic products by the consumers. Thus, all these facets will deliver a lot of clarity for launching the products in a diversified manner. With this concern, this paper will consist of designing a marketing plan for introducing as well as promoting a new line of organic products on behalf of Auntie Anne’s that would comprise cocoa dusted chickpeas, flavored hazel-nuts and kale chips. The plan would entail all relevant marketing strategies that will be required to be undertaken by the company for ensuring a proper launch of the aforementioned products in the business markets where it operates. Moreover, efforts will be made to ident ify the potential areas and specific segments where these products could be launched backed up with the formulation of an appropriate marketing plan. The steps that are needed to be undertaken for launching the products will primarily be based upon the product’s characteristics. Evaluation of Current Business Prospects of the Organization The current business prospects of Auntie Anne’s are set to be flowing in a very customer oriented manner. There are numerous prospective factors, which the company is currently working upon. The main factor is that the company is intending to create a level of distinctiveness in order to satisfy the customers by complying with their requirements by a considerable level. The products that manufacture by Auntie Anne’s are

Shakespeare in Love Movie Review Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Shakespeare in Love - Movie Review Example Set around the late 16th century, the movie provides a glimpse into the social, cultural, and political life of the subjects of the British Monarchy during the era. This makes it an excellent reference for European historical study. I also find it appealing that the characters included in the plot represent different sections of Early Modern England, from the struggling theater artists to Her Majesty the Queen. The portrayal of Queen Elizabeth the First as a patron and admirer of Shakespeare’s plays has a factual basis, too. Therefore, I was impressed by the fact that though partly fictitious, the story holds much credibility. Through the movie, I was able to learn about Shakespearean sonnets. During the height of Shakespeare’s romance with Viola de Lesseps, some of his great lyrical love poems (written in the Sonnet format) flow from his heart. In my opinion, it is these scenes that are the highlight of the movie, for they link the personal and professional life of the Bard in a cinematically brilliant fashion. The few sonnets that I heard in the movie have inspired me to read more of them. I have now developed a genuine interest in Shakespeare’s plays, which must be a worthy deviation from the run-of-the-mill products of the American pop culture. In conclusion, I would attest to the quality and worth of the film Shakespeare in Love. I recommend it to all my friends and fellow students so that they can increase their knowledge of history, widen their horizons to include far away cultures, and understand the art of theater.

Biochip technology Essay Example for Free

Biochip technology Essay The term global village is one popularized by Canadian communications theorist Marshall McLuhan to refer to the ability of electronic communications technologies to collapse notions of geography and disrupt the conventional wisdom by which society appraises time-space relations. At the heart of the concept of the global village is the idea that because electronic communications technology are exponentially increasing their ability to abnegate space and time limitations, they enable individuals, societies and institutions to operate on a larger scale than before – phone calls can be made across greater distances at reduced costs, e-mails allow instantaneous transmission of readable content and cellular technology increases the mobility of telephony. Whereas the domain we used to operate on was on the village-scale, it is now global: a global village. McLuhan effectively celebrated the development of the global village because he believed that it would expand our social consciousness. Not necessarily make us more socially conscious, but at the very least increase the scale by which we already think. Where we used to think primarily in terms of local affairs and developments that are mostly proximate to our surroundings, the ability to transmit developments instantaneously means that citizens can now think on an enlarged scale. More enthusiastic neo-McLuhanists maintain that the global village will eradicate all barriers to cultures, nations and political institutions. However, there is some concern that this is not entirely a good thing. For example, some have worried that expanding the individual consciousness to meet the scale of the global village comes at a cost. In effect, by thinking on the global scale, individuals may find themselves effectively disengaged from local concerns and proximate issues and at the very worse actively following developments in communities they have no power to affect, and disengaged from local developments that they could realistically make a difference in. Castells (1997) contends, however, that the globalizing effects of Internet and other similar networking technologies will not necessarily eradicate political boundaries. Rather the side effect of the Information Age is that many of the things that have come to define the nation state will be effectively downsized. Sovereignty will no longer figure in the absolute sense that we have understood it before, but rather, nation-states will exist solely due to the network of alliances, commitments, responsibilities and subordinations that are more than just existent for the benefit of the state, but are necessary to its existence, and this becomes possible due to the ability to instantiate relationships through networking technologies. It is this component of Castell’s understanding of globalizing effects which hold some consonance with the views of Ulrich Beck. Beck maintains that much of the failure to really take measure of the effects of globalization is derived from a limited understanding of it. Beck contends that globalization is not something that is limited to economic relationships and complex trade relations, but something that occurs in the most internalized sense, such as the ways by which we navigate culture and social relationships in an expanded transnational view that is the result of a national sense sublimated by globalizing technologies, cultural exchanges and international relationships. However, because of the co-dependencies brought upon by the transition into Castell’s â€Å"network state,† there is a risk that globalization will erode what sovereignty and democracy there is in the weaker nation-states. In other words, rather than acting as a force for solidarity, globalization could erode democratic controls and constitute a political and economic injustice to the nation-state. This is possible when a nation-state is unable to negotiate for the betterment of its community (whether through incompetence and corruption from the weaker country, or exploitation and deception from the stronger one. ) Globalization cannot end democracy per se, but it risks compromising it to the point of rendering it ineffective. REFERENCES Castells, M 1997, The End of the Millennium, The Information Age: Economy, Society and Culture Vol. 3. Blackwell, Cambridge, Massachussetts. Beck, U 2000, What is Globalization? Polity Press, Cambridge. McLuhan, M 1986, The Global Village, Oxford University Press: New York.

Public Relations in Insurance Industry

Public Relations in Insurance Industry There are various definitions of Public Relations. Lee Edwards emphasize that there is no universally agreed definition of PR due to the fact that PR is used in a huge range of industries and in each one slightly different skills and competencies have emerged among practitioners (Tench and Yeomans, 2009:4) Overall we can distinguish between academic and practitioners public relations definitions. For the academic point of view, Harlow offered the next definition: Public relations is a distinctive management function which helps establish and maintain mutual lines of communication, understanding, acceptance and cooperation between an organization and its publics; involves the management of problems or issues; helps management to keep informed on and responsive to public opinions; defines and emphasizes the responsibility of management to serve the public interest; helps management keep abreast of and effectively utilize change; serving as an early warning system to help anticipate trends; and uses research and ethical communication techniques as its principal tools (Tench and Yeomans, 2009:4). It is a definition that covers most aspects of PR. On the other side practitioners use PR to substitute terms like corporate communications or organizational communication. During the first World Assembly of Public Relations Associations, in August of 1978 that was held in Mexico City the definition of public relations was developed as the art and social science of analyzing trends, predicting their consequences, counseling organizational leaders, and implementing planned programs of action, which will serve both the organization and the public interest. (Tench and Yeomans, 2009:6) What is insurance? If a layman needs to be explained what insurance is, it is all about managing risks on behalf of others. One of the most popular forms of insurance, life insurance, the insurance company makes an attempt to manage the death rates of its clients. The insurance company charges premiums from the policyholders and then invests the money in other low risk investments. The money, along with benefits is paid to the policyholder on maturity or to the beneficiaries in case of death of the policyholder. Insurance companies use demographic data to make life estimates of policyholders. Characteristics like age, sex and smoking and drinking habits are taken into consideration to decide on the premium amount. Shorter the life estimate, higher is the premium payable. For other forms of insurance like health, property, automobile etc., the same rule applies. In the year 1999 in the United States, the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act legislated that banks, insurance and brokerage firms and various other types of financial institutions can join together and offer their customers more varied and complete range of services. As a result of this act, especially in the insurance industry, there have been some major mergers and acquisitions. In the past some years, the majority of the liability insurance underwriting in the US insurance industry has been through the bigger firms while these firms have been busy acquiring other smaller insurance firms. (The Industry Handbook: The Insurance Industry) Why PR: Insurance companies are not charitable organizations. While managing risk, they also look to make profits. The industry is one of the most competitive in the world with multiple companies vying for a place in the market. It is not uncommon to find new entrants coming in from time to time. To maintain their foothold, existing insurance companies are required to come up with new products very now and then. Insurance companies are also governed by strict rules and legislations and are required to publish their financial results as and when the law states. It is also common knowledge that the insurance industry receives a lot of flak from policyholders, former employees and the media. Hence, the role of public relations in the insurance industry is of utmost importance. Unlike other fields in insurance, PR requires specialization in this field because it is a critical job in the industry. Social and economic impact of PR: The social impact of public relations is quite clearly visible. This line of job is totally concerned with communicating with the public and the media. The power exerted by public relations as a socially-embedded profession is a focus for increasing numbers of scholars in the field. Critical approaches to public relations examine the manner in which the profession sustains or generates social inequity and include theoretical critiques of scholarly work by industry frontrunners like Aldoory and Pieczka. In addition to these and other works focusing on specific aspects of public relations, there have been broader analyses of public relations and its influence on society and the discussion is still evolving. (Bridgen Liz, Emotional labour and the pursuit of personal branding:   Public relations practitioners use of social media) The economic impact of public relations has received less attention that it deserves because it has always been looked upon as a service industry. The economic impact of PR from induced economic output of PR vis-à  -vis buyer and seller transactions is completely different from the reliable figures. Till now, the calculation of economic impact of PR was done in the same way as it was done for the advertising industry. Both were considered as capital intensive activities but the fact is that PR is more of a labor intensive activity. In order to calculate the economic impact of PR, a three step process is required Identify the number of professionals in the industry. Estimate their annual CTC. Adopt an economic multiplier which accounts for the increased productivity delivered by those professionals, as it would seem senseless for an organization to invest resources in activities whose final value is considered equal to or lower than their gross costs. Falconi Toni M. (2006) Public Relations and the Insurance Industry Scope From the findings stated already, it seems quite natural that the insurance industry needs PR specialists. There are many companies that outsource their PR to professional PR firms but there are many more that have an in house team of PR specialists. PR is a specialized job that can only be handled by professionals who have done a specialized course in this field. While a PR professional has the potential to make it big in the insurance industry and earn good money, there are some social and economic contexts that must be cleared right in the beginning. The social impact of PR is difficult to measure in monetary terms but given the volatile publicity that insurance companies receive, it is vital for them to employ PR professionals who can handle the outside world well. The inner workings of the insurance industry are always under the scanner and speculations are always rife about what happens and what does not happen. It is the job of a PR specialist to handle the public, the lawmakers and the media. The insurance industry, considered by many as a faceless, giant behemoth, needs a human face to show the world. What the world likes to see is a smiling, confident face that can handle the accolades as well as the accusations. As for the economic impact, the calculations can be done but again, monetary terms matter less in PR. Some people may question the amount paid to PR professionals but the fact remains that these are specialized people who are the face of the industry. Whether it is disseminating information, getting the publicity done or handling the pressure from the people outside the industry, it is the PR professionals who do the work for the insurance industry. As stated above and reiterated, specialization is the key. Public Relations What is required and what is expected? Important requirements for PR professionals: Public relations is all about interaction and communication of various forms. There are some basic qualities that are required by PR professionals. Effective communication Effective communication is a must for PR professionals. One must be able to think on your feet and respond. There is no scope for reaction. It is important to remember that speaking the truth bluntly may not be the best policy in a PR job. One needs to be honest but tactical at the same time. What is important is a strong vocabulary and body language. Assertion is a key and it is important to know where to draw the line. It is important to remember that people out there are ready to pounce and being an extrovert and a charismatic personality is very useful. A PR professionals job is not to alienate people even in the most trying circumstances. If you cannot endear them, at least dont make enemies out of them. Effective communication in PR means reaching out and touching people of different age groups, different demographics and different social strata. Depending on the PR announcement one is making, the language needs to be fine tuned according to the audiences capability. For example, a group of bachelors would not be interested if the PR professional kept harping on the fact that insurance is for families. They need to be told about savings that could help them in future. A degree A professional Bachelors degree is a must for a PR job. One cannot expect to find a job in PR just because he or she can speak clearly. There are intricacies associated with a PR professionals job and only a professional degree can teach the tricks of the trade. Some people also opt for a Masters degree in PR and further enhance their knowledge and skill. Starting from the beginning One needs to be a go getter to become a PR professional and the learning starts from the college. People usually fritter away time during long vacations. Those who want to make PR a career spend their time doing internships with professional PR firms so that learn the skills needed for this industry. It is common to see future PR professionals getting engaged in college fests and annual events. It is here that the learning starts and it helps massively in ones future career. Industry knowledge When someone is applying for a PR job in the insurance industry, a knowledge of the industry is a must have. When appearing for an interview, the incumbent is expected to know about the insurance industry and the role of PR in the industry. As mentioned above, PR is very important in the insurance industry and only those who exhibit adequate knowledge are chosen. There is no honeymoon period even during the interview. The role starts right inside the interview room. (Gaikwad R. Education PR Know the Skills and Qualifications That Make a Successful PR Professional. Singleton A. How Do you Get a Graduate Job in Pr? Spring D. Pr People Stand Out From the Crowd.) Qualities of PR professionals: As a PR professional, one needs to meet the expectations and demands from both the employer and the audience. A PR professional cannot afford to endear someone and alienate someone else. It is said that it is not possible to make everyone happy and this is precisely the challenge that a PR professional faces. Often there is a dilemma should I keep my employer happy or should I keep the press people happy? Those who manage both sides do well as PR professionals. Be optimistic What a company looks in its PR professional is optimism. The situation may be at its worst but the PR professional needs to maintain a steady and professional demeanor and go ahead with the job. A never say die attitude is a must for someone working in the PR department. Walk the walk and talk the talk Practicing what one preaches is important in a PR role. It is important to remember that a PR professional is the face of the company and if the company does not follow what it states, the PR person faces the music. As a PR professional, it is important to be clear about everything, policies and practices, before facing the world outside and communicating. Be assertive and extrovert PR is such a job that one cannot afford not to be assertive and extrovert. The former quality allows one to draw the line as and when required while the latter quality helps one maintain good relations with the company as well as the media and the public. Be honest Honesty is a very good policy. Blunt truth does not always work in a PR role but dishonesty is a complete no-no. What is required is effective communication skill and the ability to play around with words. Be helpful Going that extra mile is a great quality for PR professionals. A helpful attitude always helps, especially when communicating bad news. Be knowledgeable The employer will expect its PR professionals to have knowledge about, well, almost everything. Knowledge about current affairs and global news is a must. One never knows which question to expect during a press conference. Even if the PR professional is not aware of some or the other topic, the communication has to be tactful. (Henderson J. Ten, Essential Qualities for Success as a Freelance PR Consultant.) Meeting the demands: What the employer demands from its PR professional is a lot of tact and inter-personal skills. The PR person communicates all types of news and a professional demeanor along with a pleasing personality is what the employer expects. As for the outside world, a PR person is expected to be honest and open and an affable person. When someone has these qualities along with a professional degree, a PR job is tailor-made for that person. As Bill Prickett of APR says that during meltdown of US economy when unemployment is out of control it is only the profession public relation experts and executives who would be able to provide the much-needed expertise and support in critical business areas like Encourage the employees Employ constant, consistent communication Embody the conscience (VandeVrede L., A bad economy demands great PR) PR: When and why is it used? Public relations covers many areas, but there are three important fields where public relations is really important. Financial public relations The role of PR here is to provide company information to business reporters and analysts. The insurance industry is one of the largest in the world and handles a lot of money, money belonging to the policyholders and money belonging to the shareholders. Like any other industry, companies in the insurance industry need to publish their financial results at times specified. A PR professional is often given the job of making the financial announcements and handle questions from the audience. Product public relations PR here is used as an alternative to advertising. This area mainly covers publicity for new products and services. Unlike advertisements, the role of the PR professionals is not to come into the limelight. A PR persons job is to make the announcement and handle the questions from the audience. Publicity and branding are important criteria in this part of a PR professionals job. Insurance companies often need to come up with new products because of the intense competition in the market. Before the advertisements blitz the media world, the PR team makes a quiet entry and makes the announcement to those who matter. Crisis public relations This is one of the most challenging areas in PR. This area covers the response to any negative publicity that the company faces. Insurance industry as a whole receives a lot of negative publicity from people who are not associated with the industry. There are lawsuits filed almost every day and the press tends to highlight even minor issues. The job of a PR professional is to act as a cushion and blunt all these attacks. As stated by Bob Kelly, a former DPR of Coca Cola and a PR expert public relations indeed packs a punch, but only when its based on a solid foundation. According to him it is the very fundamental premise of PR. He says as generally people act on their own observation of the facts and behaves accordingly in different situations one can handle the situation on the basis of the perception. It is therefore very important for the PR executives to create, modify or strengthen the clients opinion by reaching, convincing and moving-to-desired-action in a way that helps the organization in achieving its goal. According to Kelly this ensures that à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ the public relations mission is accomplished. (Kelly Robert A. Why PR Packs a Punch.) PR: Key Tactics When it comes to PR in the insurance industry, there are some key tactical areas one needs to focus on. Insurance as a product is quite complex for the layman. As a PR professional, one will find different types of people in the audience. Some people will be absolutely ignorant and others will have varying degrees of knowledge about the industry. As a PR person, it is important to be able to reach out and address all the different people in the audience. This is where the skill comes into the picture. The goals of the PR campaign must be identified in advance. Setting a goal may sound a little tough when one is fresh in the insurance PR job but gradually, the idea will set in. When the goal is planned in advance, it makes life much easier. The PR person can then keep the goal in mind and work towards achieving it. All the paths to the goal will gradually fall in place and the entire process will be smooth. The second tactic is to totally understand the objectives of the PR campaign. Before one faces the audience, absolute knowledge of the topic and associated ideas should be well within ones grasp. From the venue to the audience to the speech everything needs to be planned well in advance. Invitations need to be sent out and the press release has to be marketed. This is when a PR professional is supposed to have done a good job. The message that is sent to the public, lawmakers and the media must be clear and concise. It is important to remember that a PR persons job is not to hog the limelight. The PR person should ideally deliver the message, answer questions and then gradually fade away. If the PR campaign is about disseminating the financial information of the company, the finance people can then take over. If it is about declaring a new product or service, the advertisements should do the follow up. If it is about communicating some bad news or handling some negative publicity about the company, the lawyers should take over. What the PR person needs to do is present facts and data honestly and ensure that the audience is not alienated. There are some innovative PR persons who dwell into the social fields that earn a name for the company. It is very common to see insurance companies partner not for profit and charitable organizations to take up social causes. The job of the PR professional is to advertise and publicize any such campaign and put the insurance company in a positive light. As has been mentioned again and again, insurance companies are often held in negative light and it is important to highlight the good deeds as much as possible. Of course, being in PR and having a good contact list always pays. If a PR person has good media relations, it works wonders for the insurance company. PR professionals are often invited to participate in TV debate shows and are asked to write columns in newspapers and magazines. Through these channels, PR professionals can publicize their company. The insurance company on the other hand gets free publicity without spending a dime. Social and ethical implications of PR in the insurance industry Customer relationship management Customers of insurance companies are spoilt for riches. There are simply too many options to choose from. And it is common knowledge that retaining customers is any day less expensive than acquiring customers. While it is important for insurance companies to acquire new customers, much more important is retaining existing customers. It is the existing customers that give new business either by buying new policies or by referring others to the insurance company. A PR professionals job is to keep customers happy. There are many ideas about how this can be achieved. What is absolutely important is connecting with customers. Whether it is about disseminating information or bad news, a PR person has to connect to customers in such a way that they actually feel proud to be associated with the organization in good times and feel accountable and empathetic during bad times. Promotion One of the key social implications of insurance PR is marketing and advertisement. Insurance companies today engage in various social activities by partnering with charitable organizations. The PR person must ensure that any such activity is publicized. A social cause attracts more attention than some glitzy ad that showcases a new product or service. Through positive visibility, insurance companies get the required attention and are put in a positive light by the public. There are some critics who continue to raise their brows and comment that all the social work is a gimmick. But the majority of the public tends to think high of any insurance company when they see the company associated with some form of social cause. Ethics Any company that is ethical tends to do well. Contrary to what some part of the outside world thinks, insurance companies dont earn their bread by cheating policyholders. There have been some instances over the years where people have felt cheated but those cases are a flash in the pan. Most insurance companies have their policies in place and they try their level best to help people by staying within the policies. Insurance companies have a profit motive in mind. They earn their bread by giving service to people and taking risks on their behalf. It would be unfair to brand them as anything but honest. As a PR person, it is vitally important to project this image of the company. And to achieve this, the PR person needs to be ethical himself or herself. PR codes of ethics Codes of ethics may be established by employers or by professional organizations. There are various codes of ethics but adoption of a code of ethics does not automatically bring morality to a calling. Generally, having a code reflects a sincere desire to raise standards of ethical practice and to provide criteria to guide and judge individual behavior (Cutlip and Centers, 2009:152). Ethical Public Relations is not an Oxymoron The companys conscience most often determines the role of the PR desk. It is a very important job albeit not the most popular one. (Van Hook Steven R. Ethical Public Relations: Not an Oxymoron) Praise of Secrecy Peter OMalley asks us to stop the deception that is completely muddle headed. When it comes to honesty, truth, integrity and accuracy, this is not PR ethics are grounded. (OMalley P. In Praise of Secrecy) PR Disasters The Truth Gerry McCusker says that public relations jobs these days just perpetuate PR disasters while earlier on, public relations professionals were supposed to fix them. (McCusker G. The Truth About PR Disasters) It is also said that the prevailing state of ethics in PR practice depends greatly on codes of ethics practiced by leading professional PR associations. One can voluntarily join these associations or groups to practice this concept of ethical public relations. Here you need to abide by a code of conduct that may include a set of forbidden activities and some ethical principles. (Bowen Shannon A. Ethics and Public Relations.) Summary: One cannot deny the importance of Public Relation today. With new industries coming up everyday this specialized field is evolving at a fast rate. As PR executives in an insurance company you will be facing government organizations and personnel, nonprofit or nongovernment organizations, educational institutions, athletic teams, industries, corporations, entertainment companies, and even nations. So, under the broader umbrella of the term PR you may have to work as a publicist, analyst, media specialist, as well as communications specialist. The insurance industry has always needed PR professionals ever since PR as a profession came into being. The insurance industry has the tendency to stay in the limelight for right as well as wrong reasons. Whether it is about garnering positive publicity or dousing negative publicity, PR professionals, over the years, have been the face of the insurance industry and handled the general public, lawmakers and the media. PR is the human face of the insurance industry and it is the PR professionals that act as customer service representatives, corporate communication specialists and media sources. Data shows that the demand for the number of PR professionals in the insurance industry is still higher than the supply. For fresh graduates who earn their degree in PR, there is immense opportunity in this industry. This is one profession that needs specialists and ordinary graduates are not really wanted in the PR field. Very few people choose PR as their discipline and fewer still are really able to make it big. Those who are smart and suave, have excellent communication skills, have great contacts with the outside world are cut out for PR jobs. If you are someone who has all these qualities and have the ambition to make it big in the insurance PR field, then we wish you all the best. If you have reached this portion of this manual, we hope you now have a fairly good idea about this industry and what you really need to have and need to do.

David Wilmot and the Wilmot Proviso :: essays research papers

David Wilmot   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  David Wilmot was born in Bethany, Pennsylvania, on January 20, 1814. Wilmot received his academic education in Bethany and in Aurora, New York. He was later admitted to the bar at Wilkesbarre, Pennsylvania, in 1834. He soon began practice at Towanda, where he afterward resided. He was first brought into public notice from his support of Martin Van Buren in the presidential race of 1836. He helped to found the Republican Party and was a Republican Senator from 1861 to 1863, filling out the unexpired term of Simon Cameron. He then became a judge of the U.S. Court of Claims in 1863.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  David Wilmot was an avid abolitionist. He became a part of the Free-Soil Party, which was made chiefly because of rising opposition to the extension of slavery into any of the territories newly acquired from Mexico. Not only was he opposed to the extension of slavery into â€Å"Texas,† he created the Wilmot Proviso. The Wilmot Proviso, which is obviously named after its creator, was an amendment to a bill put before the U.S. House of Representatives during the Mexican War; it provided an appropriation of $2 million to enable President Polk to negotiate a territorial settlement with Mexico. David Wilmot created this in response to the bill stipulating that none of the territory acquired in the Mexican War should be open to slavery. The amended bill was passed in the House, but the Senate adjourned without voting on it. In the next session of Congress (1847), a new bill providing for a $3-million appropriation was introduced, and Wilmot again proposed an anti slavery amendment to it. The amended bill passed the House, but the Senate drew up its own bill, which excluded the proviso. The Wilmot Proviso created great bitterness between North and South and helped take shape the conflict over the extension of slavery. In the election of 1848, the terms of the Wilmot Proviso, a definite challenge to proslavery groups, were ignored by the Whig and Democratic parties but were adopted by the Free-Soil party. Later, the Republican Party also favored excluding slavery from new territories.

Free States V Slave States Essay

There have always been events in American history that increased tensions between free states and slave states. In the following essay I will go over three events that has caused problems between one other. The Compromise of 1850, Uncle Toms Cabin, and John Brown’s Raid at Harper’s Ferry I have chosen these events because these are the events that stand out to me when tensions between free states and slave states come to mind. The Compromise of 1850 included four laws. California entered the union as a free state. A stricter Fugitive Slave Law requires that escaped slaves be returned. Slave trade prohibited in Washington D. C. Popular Sovereignty vote of the people living in the territory. Uncle Tom’s Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe was the best selling book of the nineteenth century. This book caused many to oppose slavery. This showed Americans what slavery has done and this book opened up northern eyes against slavery. This caused the Southern to be outraged because now they have to deal with all the negative northern remarks. The last event is John Brown’s Raid at Harper’s Ferry. In 1859 John Brown led a small group against a federal arsenal. His plan was to seize the weapons and lead a slave uprising. Even though he was unsuccessful and was also executed he became a Northern hero. This incident increased the distrust that was already between the Southern and the North. In conclusion The Compromise of 1850, Uncle Tom’s Cabin, and John Brown’s Raid at Harper’s Ferry are events that rose tensions between free states and slave states. The compromise of 1850 pleased no one. It cause northern in civil disobedience against the Fugitive Slave Law by protesting and helping slaves to reach the safety of Canada. Uncles Tom’s cabin single handedly opened up peoples mind against slavery. This made people realize how horrible it is to take another mans freedom this caused problems for the slave states because now the free states wanted to get rid of slavery once and for all. John browns attack proved to the northerners anyone can make a difference if they believe slavery is wrong. This also increased Southern distrust of the North. These are the three events that stood out to me there are a lot more but these are the greatest disputes that effected North and South.

Post Colonialism in Skin of a Lion

Eng Seminar Post-colonialism – is an academic discipline that comprises methods of intellectual discourse that present analyses of, and responses to, the cultural legacies of colonialism and of imperialism, which draw from different post-modern schools of thought. Post-colonial Literature – addresses the problems and consequences of the de-colonization of a country and of a nation. The characters of his novels are mainly among the immigrants, the colonized, and the oppressed that are suffering from the loss of true self and identity.Therefore, it is demonstrated that colonialism will continue its banal effects on individual’s lives and identities by entangling them in an unhealthy state of mind like double consciousness. In the novel, In the Skin of a Lion, Patrick who is the main character finds himself an outsider in the society and tries to measure himself through the other’s look —————————à ¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€Ã¢â‚¬â€- Top of Form Bottom of Form Postcolonial criticism, like postmodern criticism, rejects the universal and large scale in preference for the local and specific.In  In the Skin of a Lion  Ondaatje challenges the dominant narratives and gives a voice to the untold stories of the colonized. Ashcroft et al in  Key Concepts in Post-Colonial Studies  define post colonialism as dealing with â€Å"the effects of colonization on cultures and societies† (p. 186) and post colonial reading as â€Å"a way of reading and rereading texts†¦ to draw deliberate attention to the profound and inescapable effects of colonization on literary production; anthropological accounts; historical records; administrative and scientific writing† (p. 92). A postcolonial reading also rejects the universalism inherent in the liberal humanist readings of traditional criticism in favour of an acceptance of issues of cultural difference in literary texts. Culture itself is seen as a web of conflicting discourses. Thus it champions a celebration of hybridity and encourages a writing back from the margin or periphery to the centre. Canada has a history of resistance to colonialism.If you are applying a postcolonial reading then you should examine the novel for what it says about the dominant political and economic structures and how these serve the interests of the dominant class. Of course this leads us into a  Marxist reading  of the novel which would focus on the conflict of class interest and the oppression of the working classes. Marxist critics would say that all texts must be read in relation to the society in which they were composed and because writing is a political act criticism should be political as well. Patrick sat on a bench and watched the tides of movement, felt the reverberations of trade. He spoke out his name and it struggled up in a hollow echo and was lost in the high air of Union Station. No one turned. They were in the belly of the whale† (54) â€Å"The form of a city changes faster than the human heart† (109) â€Å"The southeastern section of the city where he now lived was made up mostly of immigrants and he walked everywhere not hearing any language he knew, deliriously anonymous. The people of the street, the Macedonians and Bulgarians, were his only mirror.He worked in the tunnels with them† (112) Temelcoff is a navy: â€Å"a man is an extension of hammer, drill, flame† (Ondaatje 26) Nicholas Temelcoff is famous on the bridge, a daredevil. He is given all the difficult jobs and he takes them. He descends into the air with no fear. He is a solitary. He assembles ropes, brushes the tackle and pulley at his waist, and falls off the bridge like a diver over the edge of a boat. The rope roars alongside him, slowing with the pressure of his half-gloved hands.He is burly on the ground and then falls with terrific speed, grace, using the wind t o push himself into corners of abutments so he can check driven rivets, sheering valves, the drying of the concrete under bearing plates and pad stones. (34) â€Å"I will tell you about the rich,† Alice would say, â€Å"the rich are always laughing. They keep on saying the same things on their boats and lawns: Isn’t this grand! We’re having a good time! And whenever the rich get drunk and maudlin about humanity you have to listen for hours. But they keep you in the tunnels and stockyards. They do not toil or spin. Remember that. † (132)

Retail Sector in Uk

THE UK RETAIL SECTOR Retailing is one of the major economic sectors of United Kingdom, with retail sales of ? 221 billion, employing around 3 million people and operating over 300,000 shops. Within the sector there is a scale polarisation at both the business and the store level. The leading retailers are huge, multinational businesses which dominate the sector. They operate a range of stores from major hypermarkets and supercentres through to small convenience stores. Retailing is also significant it its social dimension as well.Whilst economically retailing bridges production and consumption, in social terms it effects most of the population every day. It is the rare person who does not go shopping, or indeed has not worked in retailing or been involved in it in some way. For some, retailers offer their major social intercourse of the day or week and act as a social network, setting or centre. The quality of UK retailing and its locations thus has both an economic and a social bear ing on the perceptions of the country.COMPETITIVE ANALYSIS 1. 1 Political Structure and Trends The activities of retailers and thus shoppers are affected by the political structure and trends in a number of ways. It would be wrong, however, to see this as a direct relationship derived through a body of legislation specifically targeted at retailing or shopping. Instead, trends in retailing and shopping are more dependent on a number of national debates and initiatives that have been developed recently by various levels in the political process.The main direct effect that politicians have on retailing and shopping is through their exercise of power over location through the levers of the land-use planning system. Whilst land-use planning is a local authority activity, national government can intervene to provide directions and guidance on the assessment of development opportunities and proposals. Whilst land-use planning towards retailing in the 1980s allowed decentralised activity, since the early 1990s there has been a growing consensus on the tightening of restrictions on off-centre and green field evelopment. Thus it has become much harder to obtain planning permission for developments away from existing town centres and newer forms of retailing such as factory outlet centres and regional shopping centres have become harder to accommodate. This consensus has emerged through a general concern with the health of town centres and a desire to see town centres as vital and viable parts of the urban structure, fulfilling traditional nodal activities, including providing a focus for shopping.Whilst land-use planning affects the location of retailing, other instruments of government can affect the operations of the business, although as we note there is no overall retail trading legislation. Instead, shoppers are affected by a battery of public policy which attempts variously to regulate competition, safeguard consumer interests and to regulate trading conditions. Recent changes in this arena have seen an easing of restrictions on trading hours for example but a strengthening of powers over retail selling and employment practices. Concerns over public health have led to tighter regulation on food stores.In essence the approach could be summed up as ensuring that retailers do their jobs properly and that there is as much a level playing field as possible. Again there is no reason to suspect that this will change, though the scale of the legislation will change as globalisation continues in this market. Big retailers will be created on a pan-European level and will be subjected to standard operating conditions across for example Europe, which safeguard consumer interests. The European dimension obviously has another political aspect as well, most notably in terms of the Euro.Whilst decisions about the Euro are beyond this report, retailers as a key service sector, will have to deal with its introduction (or not). For some this is already antici pated through their acceptance of Euros in the UK, their Irish and continental European experiences and in their forward planning of technological (eg POS) investment. Smaller retailers in particular however may be less prepared for any positive decision. Overall there will be costs in implementation, as well as potential trading disruption depending on timing of introduction. 1. 2 Economic Structures and TrendsTo a considerable extent, the economic structures and trends driver for change operates at such a macro-level of the economy that it is very hard to consider it in any detail. The general economic position of the country will condition to a great extent the outcomes retailers experience from the shopping activity. Thus the volume and value of retail sales is of importance in this arena, but it is hard to be certain of magnitudes looking forward. Political policy can have an impact by its promotion of certain sectors and locations in the economy, in pursuit for example of grea ter social inclusion and a fairer distribution of wealth.However alternative policies could equally be considered. The economic structure also has an affect on the retail landscape through the encouragement or otherwise of the construction of landscapes for consumption. Businesses have to be willing to invest in the built environment and to feel comfortable that such investments will make a return. Probably the only safe assumption to be made is that the broad economic structures will remain in place and that in the future Britain will be economically approximately ranked similarly to where it is now in the world.Taking this assumption, then it would seem that we can expect many of the trends we have seen in recent years to continue. Thus, there would seem to be scope for further growth in retail sales, if we take a broad definition of retailing. There will be developers wishing to invest in the UK in commercial property, but much of this development may take the form of redevelopme nt or enhancement of existing locations. The exceptions to this might be purpose built new facilities in areas of identified deprivation, though the exact form of these facilities will be open to question.The economic structure has an impact on retailers and retail structure. British retailing is dominated by large corporate chains, many of which are head-quartered outside the country. Whilst there is in a sense a requirement to improve local knowledge to meet consumer needs, large retailers have demonstrated that computing power can be used to understand markets. Knowledge management becomes a key element in the future economy. There does not seem therefore to be any particular reason why current trends towards bigger and foreign retailers (eg.Wal-Mart) dominating more of the market should not continue, although they will probably structure some of their activities on a national (ie. local) basis. There will be opportunities for local and new retailers, but overall the market struc ture is likely to remain dominated by such big and increasingly global players. The interaction of the political will and the economic situation of the country and locations and individuals within the country will be important in determining the affluence of otherwise of the population, and thus the attractiveness of sites for retailers.This personal disposable income is critical to the future of locations, though it is tempered by the aspirations and lifestyle choices, and the costs of these eg. monthly rental of satellite television reduces out-of-home shopping. Most recently there has been announced major investment in the country’s infrastructure, funded in part by increased tax and NI revenues. This could affect perceptions of affluence and personal disposable income for years to come. More worryingly perhaps is the possible pensions timebomb which is currently being exposed through the switch out of final-salary schemes.Continuing concerns over mortgage payments based u pon endowment policies and the high level of credit in the economy reinforce these worries. Socio-Cultural and Lifestyle Aspirations Changing socio-cultural and lifestyle considerations have fuelled much of the change in shopping and retailing in recent years. Attitudes and beliefs as well as wants and needs have been transformed. They continue to develop and further change can be expected. In particular, attitudes to work and leisure are worth identifying separately as they are potentially so important.Modern consumers are a mass of contradictions, many of which are inexplicable on any rational basis. Some travel miles by car, damaging the environment, to refill a plastic bottle which costs virtually nothing, or to place bottles in a bottlebank located on a superstore car park. Branded products with a conspicuous logo are purchased in preference to identical generic products selling at a vastly reduced price. People pay 50% more for a 30% smaller microwaveable pot of baked beans ra ther than have to open a tin and heat the product ‘normally’.Ready-washed salads or chopped vegetables in their millions are purchased to ‘save time’ or to cover up for lost culinary ‘skills’. Understanding and predicting change in this arena is therefore a little difficult. What can be said is that there is a tension in this aspect of shopping. On the one hand consumers have ever broader experiences and expectations that have been increased by their exposure to new events, horizons, ways of doing things etc. So holiday experiences are brought back and combined with UK products and behaviours. Things that are seen in TV programmes become available in local stores.On the other hand, the very nature of the global experience, particularly through leisure products such as TV and cinema, tends to reduce things to the lowest common denominator – Pringles, Coke, Gap, Nike – and it is no coincidence that the majority of exemplars are Amer ican. This differentiation/similarity paradox will also emerge in other ways, and in particular in terms of the attitudes and belief statements of individuals and the way they translate these into shopping actions. Single-issue causes are fundamentally important now and look set to remain a force.Attitudes to corporate or government activities may lead to both small-scale individual behaviour changes but possibly to more aggregate corporate behaviour changing movements. The ‘battle’ over GM foods and the rapid development of organic food sales are examples of the start of this rather than the end. Consumers and businesses will spend a lot of time in the future working out their positions on issues and changing behaviours appropriately. However, the number of individual positions by their very nature will outnumber choices available.This points to a continuing fragmentation of much of consumer demand, but overlain by certain common themes. For retailers, identifying thes e themes early will be critically important and reacting quickly will be vital. The issue of mobility is complicated. It is clear that people’s understanding of mobility has been transformed in a number of directions. The overall perception of mobility has extended significantly. This extension is both in terms of the mental view of locations and travel and a dramatic extension of what may be possible and also a willingness and ability to actually travel.The location of holidays and the influence this has on price perception and product purchase is one example of this. The willingness to travel longer distances to shop on a regular or an irregular (shopping centres) basis is another. It is also the case that as we are spending more time ‘on the move’, our needs in consumption terms have changed. We need to be able to consume as we go (food, music, information etc) and retailers have changed locations, products and shop formats to adjust to this. 1. 4 Demographic Structures and TrendsShopping and retailing are obviously heavily dependent on people, both as an industry, but also as the basic consuming unit. Changes in the population structure and the location of this population, as well as the make-up of the households in which people live, are fundamentally important to retailers and to understanding the shopping future. For example, population growth in specific locations or of age-groups of people encourage or discourage retailers to construct the retail environment differently.The ‘baby-boomers’ or ‘Generation X’ concepts have their reality in the shopping behaviour each group carries out and the demand for experiences and products they exhibit. Similarly, the growth of children as consumers and acknowledgement of the spending power of the â€Å"tweenies† represent new foci for retailers and service providers. Similarly, the breakdown of the nuclear family and the rise of single person households changed t he consumption landscape, both in non-food because of the absolute number of households, but also in food due to pack size issues and so on.More but smaller households will have an effect on the type of products and services purchased and the shopping trips undertaken. In short, understanding likely future demographic structures and trends provides a good base from which to examine future shopping, and because of the nature of population dynamics provides us with a solid foundation of understanding. New births notwithstanding, we have good estimates of population demography for the next twenty years.Population estimates for the UK suggest that there will be in the next twenty years an extra 4 million people in the country on the current base of 58 million. It is forecast that current trends will continue leading to a substantially older composition of the population than at present. There will be significant growth in the 45+ age groups, many of whom will be young in body and mind a nd will be able to finance their consumption (a group of time rich/cash rich). There is within this also an increase in the 75+ age group which will present significant issues for the delivery of shopping opportunities.The ageing of the population will present an opportunity to target older consumers, but it would seem to be likely that the differences within this group will be as great as differences between the 45+ age group and other groups. The ageing of the population has another dimension of interest to retailing. Retailing is a traditional user of young people and the workforce in retailing has been seen as being more youthful and transient than many other sectors. With a decline in the youth cohort and a large increase in older consumers, retailers are going to have to question their hiring policies.Some retailers have been aware of this for some time, but it is going to become a wider phenomenon. Older consumers are going to want to be served by older well-informed staff an d retailers are going to have to draw on this older workforce in order to keep their stores staffed in the first place. Willingness to work and the expectations of work for these groups may be much changed in the future. 1. 5 Product and Process Innovation Of all the drivers of change, the one that is most obviously in the news with respect to shopping and retailing is that of product, or more particularly, process innovation.The rapid development of the digital revolution, linked on occasions to the development of electronic commerce has caught the imagination of many, but perhaps blinded them to some of the pitfalls. Despite the fall from grace of the B2C Internet, most large retailers have a web site and are seriously exploring the opportunities or dangers of this new channel. The implications of this wave of experimentation for home delivery and for the very nature of retail organisations needs to be considered.In short, is the Internet the new way of shopping and retailing, whi ch will eventually conquer all, or is it a small additional channel of limited impact? Whilst it is crucial to consider the possible implication in this area, it is important to emphasise (unlike perhaps the UK Foresight process) that retail futures are not all technologically based or driven. Product innovation is almost impossible to predict due to the rapid development and innovation of technology and other components. There are some possible ‘straws in the wind’ associated with developments in miniaturisation, communications and digitisation.Books, videos, films and music may all be transformed by product changes associated with new mechanisms for making, storing and communicating such material. Beyond that however it is almost impossible to predict what new products will be around and futile to attempt to predict in any detail what we will be buying. Process innovation is however another matter. The process of shopping has for well over a century been composed of m ultiple channels, but process innovation in the form of e-retailing is challenging the balance amongst these channels, chiefly because the nature of the medium has changed.In addition, the current implementation of e-retailing has the scope to change the nature and cost structures of retail activities. The â€Å"traditional† model – in which the customer via self service undertakes most of the shopping tasks (and bears the costs) -changes with many tasks and the associated costs transferred to the retailer. The retail business economics of e-retailing differ from those of store based retailing. Predicting the extent of Internet or e-retailing take-off is foolhardy given the breadth of experimentation and the pace of change. It is however worth reflecting on the use to which the new format is being put.It would appear that e-retailing is being used in three different ways at least for shopping. First, there are sites and opportunities that are essentially price driven. The focus is on getting the cheapest price for the product. Secondly however some sites are being used to provide a form of service delivery. In this case, products are sought because they are special, unique, different or distinctive or because they are hard to find and thus a broad data source is needed. In short, the Internet can allow the breadth of retailing to be consulted more quickly than might otherwise be the case.It is possible to identify a third type of use, namely the time-saver, when basic components of shopping (provisioning? ) are routinised into some form of home delivery service. These three illustrations are themselves further (and this time ‘virtual’) examples of the categorisation of shopping behaviour outlined earlier. With the exception of downloadable digitised products such as video and music, most products purchased remotely will require some form of home delivery system. Shopping in the real world, with the exception of mail order places the onus for this aspect primarily on the consumer.However, Internet retailing separates these activities and thus reinforces the distinction between purchasing and obtaining. In order to obtain virtual purchased goods, home delivery points will probably be needed and solutions will need to be found to the problems of delivery timings, people absent deliveries and the like (though other solutions are possible focusing on local stores/distribution points). It is also the case that one of the conventionally perceived benefits of Internet retailing, namely the removal of many car journeys, might be obviated by the expansion of local home (or workplace) delivery services.In terms of process, the emergence of the Internet has also had effects ‘behind the scenes’. 1. 6 Environmental Changes and Trends The UK is a congested set of islands, although this can be overstated by those living in the South East of England. As such the environmental aspects of shopping and retailing are p articularly important given that the sector is a large user of land and the consumers are travellers to and from locations. Retailing of course is not only about consumers moving products, as shops are the commercial end of an entire supply chain.The way in which land is used for retailing and the retail supply chain have not remained static and there is good reason to presume that this will continue. Similarly the design and architecture of retail locations is not static and plays a considerable role in both the construction of the ‘feel’ of the retail location and experience and also, in environmental terms, its efficiency and effectiveness. Retailing uses land and locations for its physical activities. Consumers tend to travel to the store or shop components of this system.Space use by retailers has changed dramatically with broad trends towards the polarisation of shop size. In the main this has not led to any particular problems over space although many retailers h ave sought the prime locations. However some problems have been felt in secondary locations as concentration and competition effects have washed through the system. All the pressures being identified thus far suggest that there is not going to be a dramatic increase in space needs but rather that it is the quality of the space that will be most important. Current estimates of retail space, from CB Hillier Parker, suggests a stock of over 1. billion square feet of gross shop floorspace, which translates into 524 million square feet of net floorspace. Of the total gross floorspace 17. 7% is in â€Å"managed† retail environments (town and out-of-town shopping centres and retail warehouses), compared to 13. 5% in 1990 and 8% in 1980. Longer term however, it might be that existing space may be more problematical leading to either wholesale transformation or re-use as something else. Retail Sector Structure Size and Scope of Retail Sectors As has already been indicated, the definit ion of retailing has become more problematic.The horizontal and vertical blurring of activities and boundaries means that putting precise dimensions on the sector as a whole, and any component sub-sectors, is more difficult than before. Many examples of the issues abound, but we could for example contrast the coffee shop in the local Tesco, to the purchase of take-away sandwiches at Pret-a-Manager and the purchase of sushi for lunch at Sainsbury. Are they all retailing? Similarly Tesco sell pre-packaged insurance at the store but the same ‘product’ is available via the telephone and from banks and brokers. Where do we draw the line for retail sales?Even Delia Smith’s cookery programmes on the BBC could conceivably be seen as a retail activity, given the direct correlation between transmission and product purchase. The boundaries of retailing are highly blurred and volatile and government conceptualisations and statistics focused on product are not necessarily the most appropriate or helpful. There has been growth in product purchase, though of course in most cases the products themselves have not been static. New products have been introduced and dramatically changed categories, as computers replace typewriters and sunglasses, watches and fashion jewellery are sold by clothing chains.In non-food we can point to new products such as CDs and mobile phones, and in food ready meals would be a simple example. Furthermore in most product categories the range and choice available has expanded Organisational Structure and Competition As major retailers have grown in scale, so they have expanded their activities into new domains. With emerging scale has come a greater degree of knowledge and power in the channel. The pace of growth of retailers has been greater than for many manufacturers. Allied to operational changes such as the development of retailer brands and the better knowledge of consumer atterns and trends, retailers have reconstructed the traditional supply chain. In essence a dominant retail organisational type has emerged, characterised by strong vertical power which has been used to control, administer and command supply chains. Major retailers have also been involved in the use of horizontal power through their construction and reconstruction of the retail landscape. Where retailing locates and the form it takes has been transformed by the activities of major retailers and developers. Decentralisation is a key theme in this, and ‘waves’ of off-centre or out-of-town development have been identified.In most cases, these developments represent retail formats (eg. the food superstore and non-food retail warehouse) that can not readily be accommodated in existing centres. Such new locations tap into consumer needs, but have an impact on existing retailers and customers not able to travel to them. Moreover, they are in virtually all cases operated by major retailers and thus reinforce the competitive imba lance amongst organisational types. International Opportunities and Threats British retailers have had a chequered history in terms of international operations.At the same time, Britain is an open market and retailers who wish to enter the market can in most cases do exactly as they wish. The exceptions to this are those formats eg. Supercentres, which are constrained by land-use planning on the grounds of space use and various dimensions of impact. Essentially though the UK is a retail supermarket with the best bits of many retailing cultures. This open market is illustrated by the growing presence of many non-indigenous retailers in British retailing. This presence has been generated both by organic growth and by takeover.It encompasses most, if not all, retail sectors and formats. An increasing proportion of UK retail sales is therefore being captured by non-UK businesses operating here. This inward investment is a threat to the main ‘British’ retailers in competitiv e terms. Whilst international activity is risky, the retailers coming here are entering in many places a cosmopolitan market and one used to purchasing non-local products or travelling abroad. As such it seems not to matter to consumers where a retailer is from or who owns whom. If however competitive action combined with technological change eans that more imports are then generated and managerial head office positions, including research and development, are located outside the country, then these should be issues of concern for the country. For retailers entering this market, they have to adapt to a different (generally higher) cost structure and this can create difficulties for their positioning and performance. It is not likely that the pressure from overseas retailers will subside. Britain is a large market with a relatively small number of major cities and centres.For retailers looking for organic growth and being town or shopping centre-located, entry is relatively easy. Mor e problematic is the entry for free-standing or off-centre stores, where sites may not be as available. More likely however is entry via take-over. Given most major UK retailers are publicly quoted, such an entry is available at any time at the ‘right’ price. Whilst it is true to note that British retailers have not been overwhelmingly successful when they have internationalised, there is emerging evidence that some leading UK retailers are now seeing success.In a number of sectors, leading retailers have expanded across the globe, but particularly into Europe and Asia. Some of this expansion is due to opportunities to buy companies at reduced prices, and some is due to knowledge gained as international sourcing has expanded. Retailers such as Kingfisher, Tesco, and WH Smith are well known international retailers and have imported some of their experiences abroad back into their UK formats. Other smaller chains have also internationalised capitalising on niche strengths (eg Signet, Courts, Body Shop, Lush, Carphone Warehouse, Game, Thomas Pink).