Life in the Orange Prison Essay

I never really liked that eerie-looking building that always stood towering over me. Its orange walls and antique framework did not give me an comfortable feeling, although my imagination of a 5 year old told me that it did try to present a fai ade of spurious geniality with those wide welcoming staircases leading to the front door and the colourful flowers skirting the yard. My inner self sent a shiver down the spine as I reluctantly followed my parents through Hell’s gates. I sincerely believed that the building, which was to be my school for the next six years, was not much better than an internment camp. So, on the first day of school, I was directed to my cell. The classroom was filled with a group of children of my size sitting on a circular carpet. The sight was peculiar – the collection of boys and girls from all over the world gathered in a room no bigger than my flat back in Hong Kong. It was like a tossed salad, with potatoes from Japan, cabbage from Australia, lettuce from Canada, tomatoes from Europe, and now there’s me – rice from China. I sat on the floor among the other fidgety bodies. In front of us sat a tall woman with blond hair and a pointy nose. She pointed at a board with apples and numbers on it and asked a question, which I identified because of the raised pitch towards the end of the phrase. Oh no, and then her watery blue eyes smiled at me. She’d chosen me! I could feel heat rushing towards my face and for a moment I thought tears would betray my composure. But I simply stared back at her; looking from the numbered apple to her face, then from her face back to the apple. â€Å"What does she want? † My gaze at her yelled for help, pleading for excuse. It wasn’t after a few weeks of continuous pointing to a new numbered apple on the board that I realized the whole thing represented a calendar. Then, it made all sense to me. Day school was not the worst part yet, because eventually I learned to speak English fluently with other students. We never had homework to do and the challenge in school was really to have fun. At first I struggled hard, as I lacked the means of communication. But eventually the language was programmed into my head and subconsciously I became a fluent English speaker. As I have mentioned, there was another part of my childhood which was even gloomier than day school. And that also took place in the very same building that I sensed to become the bane of my young carefree life. Upon arriving in Vancouver for 6 months, my mom introduced me to Chinese school. The idea baffled me. We were black haired people moving to a white skinned territory learning the yellow skinned language. Like many things that were beyond my comprehension and control, I complied with my mom’s decision. For whatever reason I was learning Chinese in Canada, I loathed the idea and did not look forward to the classes. My instincts did not lie to me. After the first 2 hours of class I was determined that I would never ever spend another minute with that old, squeaky voiced teacher, with that cheesy pictured book, and with those curvy, criss-cross, inscrutable characters. I absolutely despised Chinese. But, with as much conviction a little of girl of my size could hold, I did in the end return to that very intimidating classroom, pick up that very unattractive book, and learned those very perplexing characters. Once a week we would have dictation of the chapter we learned the previous class. The teacher would simply read out a paragraph while we tried to write down each word perfectly. To put it bluntly, we were to learn the chapter verbatim. As pointless as it may sound, it was not an easy thing for me to do. In fact, it was painful. Absolutely flesh pinching. Each night before the dictation, I’d be sitting at my crowded desk with a lamp shining precisely over my head, and staring at the jumble of words. Sitting there, I would circle all the words that I didn’t know how to write, and copy it over and over again until I could trace the word with my eyes closed. It was a tedious task for me because the chapter usually ended up with circles around every other word, if not every word. Worse yet, my mom would be sitting right next to me. With each mistake I made, either forgetting a simply word or missing a dot on the line, she would scorn at me. Of course, with that kind of chaperoning, I only became more frustrated and angry – both at myself for being dumb, and my mom for being impatient. Now, looking back I don’t blame her; it took me over one hour to learn one single paragraph. Dictation was not the toughest part of Chinese class because what I wrote and what mark I received would only remain between the teacher and me. However, reading aloud in class was a different story. It was like stripping in front of the entire class and exposing the most embarrassing flaws of my body to them for scrutiny. Whenever it was reading time, my stomach would lurch, and as each student finished his or her part, my intestines would tie yet another knot – until finally when it was my turn – my body would be so tangled that I could no longer work my diaphragms properly to speak. I made as little noise as possible, thinking that if I spoke quiet enough the teacher would condone my mistakes and let me pass. However, the teacher was not easily satisfied; she made me read again, this time only louder. Protruding my voice in front of the class was as hard as asking a five year old to lift a 50 pound dumbbell. My hands became clammy and I felt as if a furnace was working inside me. I could imagine other students seeing lucent flames embodying me. Once the teacher asked me to stop, the relief was indescribable – everything seemed to stop, the flames ceased to burn me and nothing else around me mattered anymore. I was done reading; I was out of the spotlight. My aversion for Chinese school never alleviated. As the paragraphs in the chapters grew longer and the characters more complex, my understanding of the language only became more dubious. I was like a defeated salmon that could not swim against the current and as a result was pushed backwards. But a lucky salmon I was, a savior from my class rescued me. Her name was Katy. Each time we received our dictation marks, I would be grateful if hers was less than 20 marks higher than mine. As the older girl, she was very bossy in front of me. And I, always been the submissive one, yielded to her, but I did not mind because I thought what I got in return was worth it. Katy helped me with my Chinese homework. She would help me copy those hand killing notes, and during dictation she would peek at what I didn’t get and write the answer on a scrap piece of paper and inconspicuously nudge it over. I was indebted to her. As life in that confinement became easier, an unsettling sense of guilt started to stir inside me. Once every year, the Chinese school principle would organize a dinner party at the school cafeteria. There were lots of fun at those parties; there was a magician pulling ribbons from hat, gift exchanges between anonymous people, long tables of homemade spaghetti, chicken wings, sausages, cookies, and pudding. However, no matter how hard I tried, I could never fully enjoy myself at the party. Throughout the party I would be worrying about the closing speech that the principle would make. I was tormented by the fear that he might expose my cheating to my fellow classmates and most importantly, to my mom. A part of me really anticipated this humiliation or devastation. Each time the principle spoke my stomach flinched as a natural reflex, but of course, not once did he mention my name or the notion of cheating on tests. Call me gullible, nai ve or whatever you want, but that instinctive feeling of being exposed really haunted me. At the end of the six years spent in Van Horne Elementary School, now head overlooking other heads, voice overcoming other voices, I once again stepped through the gates of Hell. Only this time, I stepped into the blinding sunlight and the honking of cars. I no longer felt the building towering over me.

Soccer Masidlale Programme

IntroductionDue to past and current rumours regarding spur, the participation of Spur being a part of a CSR programme will help the businesses ROI. By looking at uplifting the community it should allow for consumers to feel they should contribute to this effort. This should in the end increase Spurs return on investment. Spur being involved with a CSR initiative should allow for the employee buy in of the business. This should ultimately create a positive atmosphere as well as a positive work environment for all employees. This in the end allowing for consumers to feel more welcomed when intending on buying from Spur.Secondary Research30 000 children have so far been reached by the CSI (Corporate Social Investment) program sponsored by Spur: The Spur Soccer Masidlale Programme (what it does): †¢ Essential Life skills are taught to the children. †¢ Disadvantaged areas are the focal point for this programme and to so this initiative will help uplift these areas. †¢ Children in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth are supported by this initiative. †¢ Sport is used as their CSR programme which enables them to uplift the community.200 players of mixed boys and girls take part from 10 local schools and each child receives a Spur branded soccer kit which they can keep afterwards. †¢ The reason Spur has used sport as their initiative, is that it is seen as a â€Å"metaphor for life†. A life skills programme is run alongside the soccer initiative and this teaches the children skills needed for life. The children are equipped further than that upon the sports field. This addresses the socio-economic issues of poverty as it is making it more aware to members of the public, encouraging them to participate in their initiative. This also shows that Spur wants to uplift the community and prove that they want to give back to the community using sport and equipping them with the necessary skills for life. The Spur Foundation'The Spur Foundation was established on International Mandela Day, 18 July 2012, with a donation of R670 000 by the Spur Corporation, resonating with the '67 minutes' theme of Mandela Day, and the founding of the Spur family in 1967. The Foundation aims to uplift and improve the lives of South African families, especially children, in line with its core value of generosity and Ubuntu' The foundations motto is ‘Nourish, Nurture, Now!' This is used to support disadvantaged communities by providing them with education and help fed them. It also provides the basic necessities and amenities for all the children. â€Å"Fill a tummy, feed a mind†.The Full Tummy Fund initiative was launched by the same foundation in 2016 and is used in order to help aid children's development during their first 2000 days, focusing primarily on their education and nutrition.As stated from the previous socio-economic issue, Spur wants to carry on reaching out to the poverty stricken areas that are in dire need of assistance and help by assisting with the nourishment of their children and to educate their youngsters. With the Spur Foundation initiative in place, this will help these disadvantaged areas by providing the children with the proper nutrition that is needed and provides education to them, therefore allowing them to uplift their community and be innovative. This ultimately will improve Spurs image and make customers feel more obliged to support them as they will want to be a part of the foundation to help those in need. These initiatives are relevant to my topic as they provide external information that will be beneficial to my hypothesis and will prove that by Spur conducting CSR it will have a positive impact upon their ROI.By Spur conducting CSR it does good as it will:'Doing good can also be great for business; a growing body of research indicates that a socially responsible company can expect an increase in sales, profitability and value. Having a well-defined and active CSR initiative can help a company achieve the following: †¢ Attract and retain qualified personnel †¢ Enhance employee engagement †¢ Increase customer loyalty, sales and profitability †¢ Bolster community goodwill †¢ Safeguard corporate reputation' †¢ Bring customers back to the business, especially after recent incidents. As stated above, by Spur being involved in multiple CSR initiatives it will create a good name for the business and create customer loyalty as consumers will want to have shown that they are interested in what Spur wants to achieve. This will not be seen immediately but word of mouth will develop and over time Spur will experience more support from members of the public. As more customers are willing to help Spur uplift the community more capital is generated thus allowing for Spurs return on investment to break even and go further allowing for their initiatives to reach further than that of what they have now and perhaps come up with new initiatives. Similar reasons as to why businesses such as Spur should be involved with a CSR programme: 1. You will have satisfied employees: -this meaning that the businesses employees will be proud of the organization they are working for thus bringing a good name for the business internally which then gets spoken about externally creating a positive image towards the business in this case Spur. 2. By conducting CSR you will create satisfied customers: -from past records it has shown that by a business conducting CSR it will improve the customer's attitude towards the business. If this is gained, the customer will undoubtingly come back to the business and buy the businesses products or services and on top of it, the customer will be less willing to go to another brand. 3. There will be a positive Public Relation: -CSR will provide an opportunity to share positive stories. This will benefit companies as it is a free form of advertisement. Businesses will not have to fret about having to pay for advertisements. Free publicity is thus generated and is spread by word of mouth. 4. There will be a reduction in costs: -a CSR programme doesn't have to cost money, if it is being conducted properly. Steps for a company to reduce costs are as follows: †¢ Have a more efficient staff hire and retention system. †¢ The implementation of energy saving programs. †¢ The management of potential risks and liabilities more effectively. †¢ As said by investing more into the traditional marketing way of word of mouth. 5. Business opportunities are created: -as we know a CSR program is to be pen and allow for an outside orientated approach. The business must have constant communication between all its stakeholders (customers, suppliers and other important parties).the reason for this communication is that you will then be the first to know of opportunities that your business can be a part of. 6. There is a long term future for the business: -this means that as a business you are looking at the long term results of the CSR programme and also the businesses continuity. Many large corporations generally refer to this as the shaping of a more sustainable society. These few extra reasons further support the fact that CSR will create a positive brand image for Spur and allow for a greater desire for them to want to carry on as it will certainly provide them with free marketing strategies thus allowing for more profit that can possibly be used to further invest in their CSR initiatives. Primary ResearchBar graph representing all answers that were answered either agreeing with questions asked or disagreeing.As seen in the above graph, many of the candidates that volunteered to answer the questionnaire have all agreed with many of the questions. In the questions it is noticed:Question 1:-Most volunteers agreed that by Spur conducting a CSR program it will be beneficial for the business as it will most definitely create a good name for the business.-Volunteers did disagree however saying that the market will not increase as of experiences from the past involving Spur and that has now spread rumours.-In Secondary research, we see that a business will create a good name for themselves by being involved in a CSR initiative. They believe that spread of mouth about Spur will help increase their market share.Question 2:-Seen again, all volunteers agree that branding has a huge impact upon the business as they could possibly lose customer loyalty, their brand will not be recognised or trust amongst the consumers towards the business is lost.-Customer loyalty is massive when it comes to a business functioning correctly. If the business has no customers there are no funds to allow the business carrying on with the path that they are o n.Question 3:-All volunteers have reacted in saying yes that a CSR program will address a current socio-economic factor and it will resolve that matter.-We all know that by a business addressing a current socio-economic factor; it will help in the long term as it will benefit those factors and improve them. -Many volunteers have replied in the same way saying that by businesses conducting CSR they will uplift the communities and therefore improve the standards of living of all people invested in their initiatives.Question 4:-All volunteers have approved in saying that they would most definitely be proud of their business if the business were to conduct CSR.-We know that if the employees of our company are happy with the business and are proud of it they will be more motivated to work and staff morale will increase thus bringing in more profits towards the business as more work is then done. -Most have responded in saying that they want to be a part of something that they know will uplift and benefit the community. They will be proud that the business is willing to take time out to benefit the community and uplift our standards of living.Question 5:-Most volunteers agree that most businesses conduct CSR because it is a free marketing system for their brand to be noticed by external stakeholders. People will be drawn to the fact that the business (Spur) is conducting CSR and will then therefore want to help the business achieve their goals by buying from them and supporting them. – Few volunteers disagreed saying in the long run this CSR initiative is more expensive than advertising. Some believe that it should involve passion and emotion. -We learned that in the Secondary research that CSR is a free form of advertising for the business and we all know that advertising fees are expensive so businesses us CSR initiatives to their advantage.Question 6:-All agreed in saying that Spurs CSR initiatives will improve the standards of living if they carry on. -Some have mentioned that perhaps more effort is needed in order to make more of an impact. They may believe this as there is many people suffering in disadvantaged areas and perhaps Spurs initiatives need to be expanded in order to care for even more people.Question 7:-All have agreed that it would be more beneficial if they were to know that Spur conducted a CSR program thus making them want to help in the initiative. -Communication is key in a business as if there is no communication members will not know what beneficial work they are involved in.Question 8:-Few have answered in saying that Spurs initiatives will have an impact upon society but most lean to saying no as they would need to increase their efforts to make a really large effect. – Volunteers who agreed said that every bit counts, this will not ultimately uplift the community but as said every little bit does count when uplifting the community. -For majority to have said no, it could possibly also mean that there is no communication from the business to the external market in saying that they do conduct CSR initiatives and to so many are unaware as to what spur des and are not willing to wanting to support.Question 9:-Most volunteers have agreed that businesses should conduct CSR to benefit the community. Yes it is a free way to market the business but the community is the main focus and this is what the whole point of a CSR initiative stands for.Three volunteers have replied saying no and the reason is that a CSR program is expensive and it could possibly disadvantage the business. -The main focal point of CSR is to benefit the community and the planet as well as making a profit, so in a sense the business is saving money by conducting CSR as they do not have to pay for advertisements. This money however can be used to further more improve their CSR initiatives or perhaps invest into new initiatives.Question 10:-Majority of the volunteer answers agreed saying that the â€Å"Fill a tummy, Feed a mind† initiative should only focus on children. They agree in saying that children are most in need as they have no control over their current situation thus need the support that Spur id offering them. Although they did add ideas in saying that Spur should extend the time period of this project for the children as they say that 2000 days is not enough for the children as it is only five years. -Volunteers did disagree with the initiative and say that they should not only focus primarily on children. Many people are in dire need of education, life skills and food as our economy is so poor so therefore they should have access to it as well. Volunteers added as well that it is also quit taxing on the business as 2000 days is quite a long time to look after a child, not just one but many. -For a business it can be quite taxing to their profits especially when they are providing for more than 20 000 children. Although it can be quite taxing perhaps in some cases Spur can be flexible in allowing to extend the 2000 days' time period especially if they are in dire need and have no assistance. This Primary Research has furthermore proven that the CSR initiatives undertaken by Spur are beneficial to the business as a whole. It will help benefit the business from marketing strategies through to eradicating bad stigma about past incidents which have brought the Spur franchise name down. This will help the business be recognised and allow for more consumers to feel more encouraged to support Spur.ConclusionsThe Primary research as well as the Secondary research helps prove that Spurs involvement with its CSR initiatives does have an impact upon their business which ultimately will improve their ROI. We see in the primary research that many of the volunteers feel that if the business is willing to give back to the community and are willing to help, consumers will feel more encouraged to help support the businesses and help uplift their community as well as looking at the possible opportunity to uplift the nation as a whole (in the long term). In order for Spur to possibly improve their CSR they can look at: †¢ The practice of transparency towards its consumers and their employees. Make it part of their organisational structure. Inform the larger community about all ventures of the business. This will help consumers understand everything that is being conducted within Spur. †¢ Encourage innovation within the business as well as the community. This will allow for new ideas for the business and new ideas for the business to get itself involved with.

Madeline Leininger theory integrated into the clincial practice Essay

Madeline Leininger theory integrated into the clincial practice - Essay Example Cultural care and universality was identified as being the missing link between the nursing profession and what was actually done in practice (Leininger, 1988). Creating an environment that is culturally acceptable for a patient will lead to a better experience in the hospital (Shaner, n.d.) One of the most important landmarks in the profession of nursing was the establishment of theories to guide the nursing profession and provide the framework for this profession (Leininger, 1988). The concept of ‘care’ as put forth by Leininger was accepted and wrought into the framework of the theories that guide the nursing profession (Shaner, n.d; Leininger, 1988). The theory of care is now a firm fixture in the nursing profession. Nursing students are taught to emphasise on ‘caring’ and accept that being sensitive to a person’s culture will lessen the gap between healthcare professionals and the patients they treat (Leininger, 1988). To conclude, Leininger came up with the concept of caring in the nursing practice which includes the ideas that understanding the culture and environment that a person comes from is vital in providing care. These ideas have now been firmly accepted in to the nursing profession and students are taught these guidelines. Shaner, H. (n.d). Nightingale Knew More Than She Thought-Â  Environment as a Phenomenon in Nursing:Â  Reflections from Nurse Theorists. Nightingale Institute for Health and the Environment. Retrieved from http://www.nihe.org/enviropn.html.

Rene Descartes On Discourse on Method Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Rene Descartes On Discourse on Method - Essay Example He explained that since mathematics has achieved the certainty for which human thinkers seek, the traditional persons should rightly turn to mathematical reasoning as a model for progress in human knowledge. Expressing perfect confidence in the capacity of human reason to achieve knowledge, Descartes proposed an intellectual process that suggested the architectural destruction and rebuilding of an entire town. In Part 2, he writes: It is true, however, that it is not customary to pull down all the houses of a town with the single design of rebuilding them differently, and thereby rendering the streets more handsome; but it often happens that a private individual takes down his own with the view of erecting it anew, and that people are even sometimes constrained to this when their houses are in danger of falling from age, or when the foundations are insecure. What is true of buildings and constitutions is also true for knowledge. The fact that the existing sciences have often grown up gradually with no uniform plan explains this as a key role of processing the â€Å"unlearning† of what we have previously learned. Descartes used that as an example to explain that in order to be absolutely sure that we accept only what is genuinely certain, we must first deliberately renounce all of the firmly held but questionable traditional beliefs we have previously acquired by experience and education. However, he later warns about the consequences of the reconstruction, such that:

Is political analysis a science, an art or some kind of hybrid Essay

Is political analysis a science, an art or some kind of hybrid - Essay Example With the passage of time, the concept of political philosophy was introduced, which supported the view of political sciences being the master of all sciences as forwarded by Aristotle (Stanford University, 2011). Hence, from understanding people’s behavior from a specific point of view of politics and governance, it was expanded to understanding the cultural, ethical and religious needs and behavior of people, which directly affects their outlook and code of life. Thus, political science was evolved, amalgamating some core areas of humanities, religious, cultural psychology, sociology, philosophy, leadership and public administration (Britannica, 2013). This expanded the application of political analysis, and it made a place in the sectors of law, communism and humanities. There are numerous researches and studies on each field mentioned above, and this depicts the richness political sciences carries in itself. Furthermore, with the increasing awareness of leadership roles and responsibilities, a considerable emphasis is been put on how people are governed and by whom (Britannica, 2013). The fact that, the end motive is the same today also, to find ways and methods to attract more people, but the government system now, can not entirely rely on theories and scientific methods for determining human behavior. As the cause and effect theory in science tells that there is a particular effect directed by a particular action, does not solely apply in political sciences. Stating the above facts, the role of science cannot be negated completely (UCLA, 1996). The empirical analysis helping political sciences to understand the emerging trend of globalization and international relations management are all the scientific tools for efficient governance. This makes it difficult to categorize political sciences as a subject of hard- science or simple arts. It can therefore, be taken as a hybrid of these two fields, where some issues are predefined while some still exist s in the grey areas (Singh, Marquette, Alolo, 2007). Understanding Political Analysis Background The implication and use of political analysis in governance and public administration has its roots from the ancient civilization, in the time of Plato and Aristotle (Nederman, 1991). The ideology behind its evolution was related in the determination of features and responsibilities for those desiring power and authority. With the Roman fall nearly thousand years back, the Greek philosophy of social and political behaviors emerges, with which the world entered in a new era of political laws and governing states. The definition of power and the rule was changed, from something that is bestowed upon to something that has to be earned (Adcock & Bevir, 2005). At that point in time, scientific observations and empirical approaches were the only tools involve in forming a government and finding people’s interest in the state government. This was the normative knowledge approach, which d etermines the definite reaction of people upon certain government policy or process. Later, a non-normative approach, based on the grounds of psychology was introduced. It takes into account hypothesis and several assumptions, whose empirical evaluation leads towards a particular finding (Adcock & Bevir, 2005). In the contemporary government system, a Model Based Approach is used, which has fragments of several models combined to make

How far neuromarketing can go ethically Literature review

How far neuromarketing can go ethically - Literature review Example The key source to win such intensive battle i.e. capturing target audience’s attention was the use of highly targeted communication based on effective and thorough research along with the integration of science (4imprint, 2010). Traditionally, marketers and advertisers utilised focus groups and interviews to gain insights regarding the needs and wants of the consumers. With such techniques/tools, the marketers were able to read the mind of the consumers by gauging the responses which provided them with superiority in the marketplace. But with the changes in consumer-driven marketplace, organisations have started seeking out new methods and ways to gather consumer opinions and reactions regarding a particular brand in the marketplace (4imprint, 2010). With the improvements in technology, and with increasing research of the marketers, the result has been presented in the form of neuromarketing. Neuromarketing has been highly used and it has been estimated that the usage of neuro marketing will be increasing with the passage of time. It may sound futuristic, but with the advancement of technology in this new era, marketers have been provided with an opportunity to tap into the minds of the consumers. Not only this, these new technologies allow the marketers to scientifically understand the needs and desires of the consumers. With the integration of thorough research and science i.e. (technology), marketers and advertisers have gradually enhanced their ability to exactly pinpoint the reasons and causes due to which people tend to purchase a product. In addition, such technologies have uncovered the response of brain to various advertisement and marketing tactics (4imprint, 2010). Technology that organisations once fantasised is now a reality which has constantly helped the giant organisations like Campbell’s Soup and Pepsi to enhance their brand image along with the marketing of their products (4imprint, 2010). The concept of Neuromarketing came into e xistence almost a decade ago by an Atlanta Advertisement firm i.e. Bright house in June 2002, with a specific aim. The main aim of Neuromarketing was marketing research (Fisher et al., 2009). With the help of neuromarketing, the organisation was able to enhance its knowledge regarding the needs and desire of the customers along with the buying behavior of the consumers in the market. As Neuromarketing is a combination of neuroscience and marketing practices, it provides the organisation with perfect opportunity to understand, predict and eventually control human behavior. As indicated by Fisher et al. (2009) that the problem is based on the fact that such integration of sciences and research is quite unclear that is it only an academic field of research or business practices despite the advantages and benefits associated with neuromarketing through which organisations were able to predict human behavior and eventually consumer behavior. Similarly, Murphy et al. (2008) that several n euromarketing companies claim that with the help of neuromarketing, the organisations would be able to fully understand the buying behavior of consumers but on the other hand, very little academics and scientific approaches validate such claims. The question that has risen is whether such neuromarketing is another trick of marketers and advertisers to manipulate the demands of the products or it is just a practice to

Identification with Theory, Relating with Practice Assignment

Identification with Theory, Relating with Practice - Assignment Example To begin this reflective journey, one project management expert suggests that â€Å"if you cannot get people to use their skills appropriately, they are of little use to the project† (Gehring, 2007, p.45). The author is offering that it is the role of leadership (or management) intervention in order to allocate the right organizational staff member for the specific function as it contributes to a group or team project. This is something which I connected with strongly during the course of this programme, especially in academic environments where group work and team-based projects are commonplace. The class learned about different motivational theories which will be discussed later, however, it is important to recognize that if the right talents are not aligned for the right project, there is likely to be disorder in a project group or lack of efficiency. I think this is important to recognize, as a future business leader, that sometimes keeping efficiency and productivity is s imply about designing a project, group or organizational structure with the perfect fit of talent. For example, the author suggests that in projects, managers must realize that the temporary nature of projects is that they are short-lived and do not allow for ongoing leadership improvement (Gehring). Therefore, it would seem that a qualified leader must be well-developed with the fundamental understanding of how to structure groups to ensure that conflict is reduced as much as possible. Because the leader will not be able to utilize the theory of group development over an extended period of time, this also suggests a rapid decision-maker who is confident in their assessments and determinations. This is supported by Stogdill, from course learning, as a research redevelopment of trait theory, who suggests self-confidence as the main leadership capability.

Jewish Marriage Ceremony Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Jewish Marriage Ceremony - Essay Example The Temple Executive Director handles a broad range of details and logistics. The director is well placed to offer answers to numerous questions in relation to the planning of the wedding ceremony. Further, the temple is also used as a wedding ceremony. Besides the temple, Jewish wedding ceremonies occur in other settings, such as hotels, gardens, and restaurants (Ahabah 4). Before the couples settle for a location outside the synagogue, they are required to consult with the Rabbi to be sure whether it would be suitable for them to travel to that place. According to Jewish customary laws, the Rabbi of the congregation where the wedding ceremony is taking place to officiate at the marriage ceremony. However, at Beth Ahabah, this procedure is a matter of policy (Ahabah 4). The couples are allowed to choose a different Rabbi to officiate for their marriage ceremony even though he is not affiliated with the location congregation. Before the actual marriage ceremony takes place, the bride and groom are required to discuss with the Rabbi many of the details surrounding the ceremony itself. Additionally, most of the families arrange rehearsal ceremonies to practice the recessional, professional, and the placement of people on the Bimah. Typically, a wedding florist, consultant, or photographer conducts the rehearsal. During the rehearsal ceremony, the Rabbi is not expected to attend. The rehearsal ceremonies are normally scheduled with the executive director and if they are held on Fridays, they must be conducted before 6 pm.

The Inclusion of Traveller Pupils - Raising Achievements Essay

The Inclusion of Traveller Pupils - Raising Achievements - Essay Example Increasing mainstream access is an important goal† (cited in Rayner 2007: 35). While there are a lot of various definitions of educational inclusion, this concept is always understood in the context of an ideology of social justice, namely in the context of the principle of equity in education. Inclusive education may be viewed as equal education for all pupils who come to school, regardless of a range of student characteristics, including â€Å"class, race, ethnicity, sexuality, perceived level of ability or disability, or age† (Rayner 2007: 36). OFSTED (2000) adds that it is for the most part about the provision made for and the achievement of different groups of pupils within a school, including â€Å"minority ethnic and faith groups, Travellers, asylum seekers and refugees† (p.4). However, equity in education should not be understood as â€Å"treating all pupils in the same way†, rather it involves â€Å"taking account of pupils’ varied life exp eriences and needs† (OFSTED 2000: 7). ... The recent evolution of inclusion within the British educational system started in 1997, when the New Labour came to power. In 2000 a revised National Curriculum was designed to â€Å"secure for all pupils †¦an entitlement to a number of areas of learning and to develop knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes necessary for their self-fulfilment as active and responsible citizens† (Hodkinson and Vickerman 2009: 74). This Curriculum 2000 is intended to be a curriculum for all as of right (Clough 1988: 11), and it is based upon three core principles: (1) setting suitable learning challenges; (2) responding to pupils’ diverse learning needs; (3) overcoming potential barriers to learning and assessment for individuals and groups of pupils (QCDA online). During the recent decade, significant changes in policies and practices aimed at the development of inclusive education have occurred. It is widely recognised that there are many benefits of children when they rec eive an inclusive education. The most important of these benefits have been documented by Moore (2009: 22-23) on the basis of analysis of recent research. They are: Increasing of growth in social skills of children as a result of their socialising with similar age peers. Forming a better sense of belonging, this is considered to have a great impact on achievement a sense of self-worth and performance in society. Exercising a basic right to be educated with peers and to participate in all facets of childhood and school setting on equal terms with other pupils. Minimising an effect of labelling that is very important in terms of maturation and development of a child’s performance. Learning and forming a positive feeling about others who have differences in lifestyle, race, customs and traditions.

Online Shopping Acceptance Model OSAM Assignment

Online Shopping Acceptance Model OSAM - Assignment Example The components of OSAM are generated from OSA components. The OSAM module is described as an entity offering a group of services that can be achieved from the background of service growth and service provision (Dede et al., 1997). This model presents an easy method of obtaining comprehensive information about the constituents managed automatically at the beginning of the structure and can hypothetically affect its function. Zhou et al. (2007) state in their study that the knowledge-orientated view of the customer approval of electronic shopping is currently predicted and clarified by observing technical descriptions such as content and design on the website, user boundary features, and structure usability of an available store. Without the approval of the technology, e-commerce would be limited. The customers’ willingness to acknowledge the technology guides the achievement of electronic promotion (Zhou et al., 2007). Several factors influence the consumer acceptance of online purchase like consumer attitude, environmental factors, and availability of resources. The main aim of the OSAM model is to enable traders market their products using different modes like mobile phones and social media channels. Advertisement can be made through mobile phones and social media networks. References Carlota, L., Efthymios, C., and Maria-del-Carmen, A. (2013). Social Media as Marketing Strategy: An Explorative Study on Adoption and Use by Retailers, in Miguel R. Olivas-Lujan, Tanya Bondarouk (ed.) Social Media in Strategic Management (Advanced Series in Management, Volume 11). New York: Emerald Group Publishing Limited. Chen, S. J., & Chang, T. Z. (2003). A descriptive model of online shopping process: some empirical results. International Journal of Service Industry Management, 58(6): 556-569. Close, A. (2012). Online Consumer Behavior: Theory and Research in Social Media, Advertising and E-tail. London: Routledge. Dede, A., Arsenis, S., Tosti, A., Lucidi, F., Westerg a, R. (1997). OSAM Component Model - A Key Concept for the Efficient Design of Future Telecommunication Systems. In IS&N, (67):127-136. Doherty, N., and Ellis-Chadwick, F. (2010). ‘Internet retailing: the past, the present and the future.’ International Journal of Retail & Distribution Management, 38(11/12): 943–965. Flick, K. (2009). Assessing Consumer Acceptance of Online Shopping: Examining Factors Affecting Purchase Intentions. London: ProQuest. Howladar, M., H., H., and Mohiuddin, G. (2012) Developing Online Shopping Intention among People Bangladesh Perspective, Developing Country Studies, 2(9): 2225-0565. Lina, Z., Liwei, D., and Dongsong, Z. (2001). ‘Online shopping acceptance model – a critical survey of consumer factors in online shopping.’ Journal of Electronic Commerce Research. 8: 41—61. Mikalef, P. Giannakos, M., Michail, G., and Pateli , A. (2013). ‘Shopping and Word-of-Mouth Intentions on Social Media.’ Jour nal of Theoretical and Applied Electronic Commerce Research, 8(1):17-34. Monsuwe, T.P.Y., Dellaert, B.G.C. and Ruyter, K.D. (2004). What drives consumers to shop online? A literature review. International Journal of Service Industry Management, 15 (1): 102-121. Olumayowa, S. M. (2012). Acceptance and Impact of Social Networks Marketing Using Extended Technology Acceptance Model unpublished

Race and Ethnicity Essay Example for Free

Race and Ethnicity Essay Crash is highly ambiguous in the depiction of multiculturalism in American society. Almost all the ethnicities depicted in Crash question the perception others have their particular group, but at the same time affirm the different stereotypes surrounding their ethnic group. For example, one of the black characters (‘Anthony’) remarks that they should be afraid in a white neighborhood, due to their group’s association with crime. Following this intelligent observation, he and his friend (‘Peter’) proceed to steal a car from a white couple (Rick and Jean Cabot), affirming the stereotype whites have of them. Another example would be the Persian-American father, who is accused by a gun-store owner to be a danger to society, The father denies this fact, but ends up shooting a child. This ambiguous portrayal shows us one of the dilemmas of Multiculturalism in American society. While it strives to acknowledge diversity, it also promotes color consciousness by rejecting color-blind solutions. To quote Gordon and Newfield â€Å"Multiculturalism in the 1980’s sponsored renewed protests against white racism and yet it appeared to replace the emphasis on race and racism with an emphasis on cultural diversity. Multiculturalism rejected racial subordination but seemed sometimes to support itâ€Å". While Gordon and Newfield also attest that â€Å"multiculturalism often avoided race. It designated cultures†, but multiculturalism in Crash inexorably comes down to race and ethnicity. The characters in Crash think in terms of race or ethnicity, not culture. Despite the fact that every major character is culturally ‘American’, race is the definitive factor in determining identity. The upper-class African-American Cameron is accused of not being ‘black’ enough. The Persian-American father is angered that he is mistaken for being an Arab (traditionally considered to be part of the Hamitic race), while both ethnicities can be considered part of Islamic culture. The Asian-American characters and the Cambodian immigrants are first and foremost ‘Asian’ and no attempt is made to distinguish them culturally. This can clearly be seen at the end of the movie; Anthony drops the Cambodians off in Chinatown, an ‘Asian’ neighborhood, inhabited by Chinese-Americans whose culture and language is completely foreign to the Cambodians. Furthermore everyone from South-American is labeled as Latino or Hispanic, despite the fact that Brazilians are culturally and linguistically Portuguese and that Argentina is more ‘white’ than the United States. Detective Ria is called Mexican (the most common Hispanic group in Los Angeles) multiple times in the movie, despite having a shared Puerto Rican and El-Salvadorian background. One must understand that there is a racial divide or a perceived racial divide in American society, not just between the white American majority and minority groups but between different minority groups as well. This is best seen during Crash’s opening scene, where a ‘native’ Asian-American woman (Kim Lee) accuses the ‘native’ Hispanic Ria of being an illegal immigrant in broken English. Another example would be the privileged African-American Cameron. After an attempted carjacking, he is mistaken for one of the carjackers, due to his belligerent attitude and encounters a racial divide that completely nullifies his privileged position. In other words, his upper-class job gave him a degree of ‘whiteness’, which dissipates when he is mistaken for a ‘black’ thug. The racial divide is best described by Ronald Takaki, a Japanese-American and a professor on multicultural American during an encounter with a taxi driver. The taxi driver asked how long he had been in the US; Takaki interpreted his question in terms of race: â€Å"Somehow I did not look ‘American’ to him; my eyes and complexion looked foreign. Suddenly we both became aware of a racial divide between us†. For the taxi driver, an Asian man speaking good English was somehow remarkable and likely made his comment without any racist connotations. For the Japanese-American Takaki, it was a reminder that the notion of ‘Americaness’ was still closely related to race. Another Academic, Schlesinger notes that â€Å"The bonds of cohesion in our society are sufficiently fragile, or so it seems to me, that it makes no sense to strain them by encouraging and exalting cultural and linguistic apartheid. The American identity will never be fixed and final; it will always be in the making†. Despite being an assimilationist, Schlesinger has a valid argument, at least with this quote. ‘American’ is not a fixed identity; it means different things to different minority groups. For the Asian-American woman, speaking broken English raised no questions regarding her Asian-American identity, while the Hispanic Ria was dumbfounded by the fact that the women accused her of being an illegal in broken English. Schlesinger correctly notes how fragile the bonds between the different ethnic groups are. This returns in Crash, where almost every ‘multicultural’ interaction is the result of a crash or conflict. As Gordon and Newfield point out in their essay, multiculturalism might have placed the emphasis on cultural diversity, rather than race or racism, but it has done little to deal with the underlying racial divide that exists in American society. Bibliography â€Å"Argentina Demographics Profile 2010†, Index Mundi, accessed 10-3-2010, http://www. indexmundi. com/argentina/demographics_profile. html Avery Gordon and Christopher Newfield, Mapping Multiculturalism (Minneapolis: University of Minnesota Press, 1996), 3-4 Schlesinger, Arthur M. , The Disuniting of America: Reflections on a Multicultural Society (New York: Norton, 1992) 137-138 Takaki, Ronald, A Different Mirror: A History of Multicultural America (New York: Back Bay Books, 1993) 1-2.

South African Economic Racism Essay Example for Free

South African Economic Racism Essay Throughout the course of the 19th and 20th century, economic considerations played a significant role in shaping both racial discrimination and concepts of white supremacy in South Africa. When large deposits of gold and diamonds were discovered in the latter half of the 19th century, the economic structure of southern Africa was dramatically altered. The mining industry necessitated vast amounts of inexpensive labor in order to be profitable. In the post South African War period, the necessity to return the Boers to self-rule without harming the mining industry resulted in a series of legislation that legalized racial discrimination to ensure a large and cheap labor force consisting of Africans. South Africa’s industrial revolution and the legislation passed during the period immediately following the South African War provided the economic bases of racial discrimination and white supremacy in South Africa. In 1868, the Kimberly diamond strike propelled South Africa to a position as a world leader in diamond production. Similarly, the discovery of large gold deposits in the 18th and 19th century also attracted both foreign capital investment and immigration. The rapidly growing mining industries required massive amounts of inexpensive labor in order to be profitable. Hundreds of thousands of African workers sought employment in the developing mines and cities in industrializing cities. In the face of this increased competition, white workers benefitted from racial discrimination because it protected them economically from competition with African workers. White business owners sought a large and cheap African workforce; racial discriminatory practices ensured they were cheap and pliable. In order to limit the bargaining power of African workers seeking higher wages and to ensure that none could flee in the face of harsh labor conditions, the British conquered the remaining independent African states, confiscated land, and imposed severe cash taxations during the 1880s and 1890s. This forced African labor that had previously chosen employment in the mining industry voluntarily to now do so under conditions set solely by the employers. In addition, a series of discriminatory practices were first introduced during this period including pass laws and urban ghettos, further ensuring the enforced cooperation and steady supply of cheap African labor. The industrial revolution in South Africa introduced a pressing need for incredible amounts of cheap labor. The introduction of racially  discriminatory practices sought to meet this need by ensuring the In the aftermath of the South African War in 1902, the mining industry saw a depression in the face of a severe labor short age. In response, South African capitalists and mining industry leaders worked with British imperial authorities to import massive amounts of Chinese laborers. Between 1902 and 1907, over one hundred thousand Chinese immigrated to South Africa. However, Afrikaners opposed this vehemently arguing that it should be a white man’s country and that this influx of labor represented a new competitive threat for potential jobs. In 1906, the Liberals come to power in Great Britain. Many had opposed the South African War and were now calling for the return of self-rule to the Boers without endangering the mining industry. Afrikaners would take the place of skilled and semi-skilled English laborers at lower wages while newly enacted policies would force greater numbers of Africans to unskilled labor. The 1911 Mines and Works Act restricted African employment to menial and unskilled jobs, excluding them from most skilled categories of work. In effect, it legislated a racial hierarchy in the workplace and extended the practice throughout the South African economy beyond the mining industry. Furthermore, the Industrial Conciliation Act of 1924 restricted African rights to organize or to negotiate their terms of employment. In 1913, the Natives’ Land Act was enacted, restricting African ownership of land to designated areas comprising roughly 7 percent of the South Africa’s total land area and restricting Africans from establishing any businesses outside of this allocated space. In addition, the land partitioned for Africans was often of poor quality and could not possibly support its population. Thus, the law effectively prevented Africans from leading self-sufficient lives in rural communities. They were increasingly forced to work on Afrikaner owned farms, factories, and mines. In addition, restrictions on their movement and the right to reside in urban areas combined with the inability for rural areas to support significant numbers of Africans resulted in an endless system of migrant unskilled labor. Economic interests and considerations significantly in fluenced the segregation policies adopted in South Africa during the 19th and 20th centuries. The necessity of a cheap and controllable labor source resulted in harsh racially discriminatory policies and the rise of white supremacy. In 1944, the chairman of the Broederbond stressed the special role of  Afrikaners in a speech, â€Å"In every people in the world is embodied a Divine Idea and the task of each People is to build upon that Idea and to perfect it. So God created the Afrikaner People with a unique language, a unique philosophy of life, and their own history and tradition in order that they might fulfill a particular calling and destiny here in the southern corner of Africa. We must believe that God has called us to be servants of his righteousness in this place† (Clark and Worger, 32). Placing emphasis on divine support for their existence, their special place in the world, and righteous mission, this Afrikaner ideology can draw historical antecedents from the belief of Manifest Destiny in the United States in the 19th century and from the ethnic nationalist movement of Nazi Germany in the mid 20th century. This emphasis on the special Afrikaner identity heavily influenced Hendrik Verwoerd who se argument for apartheid centered on the inability for two cultures to achieve their ideal futures as each of their paths are unique. The intermingling of languages, traditions, and histories would be detrimental to both the Afrikaner and African peoples. These ideals of Afrikaner nationalism expressed in the quote draws historical antecedents back into the 19th century concept of Manifest Destiny. During the 19th century, Manifest Destiny was a widely held belief in the United States that American settlers were destined to expand throughout the North American continent due to the special virtues of the American people and through a special destiny that was divinely ordained. Similarly, the Broederbond chairman asserts the special role of the Afrikaner people and their divinely ordained origin. In addition, he argues for their expansion throughout southern Africa as both a divine calling and righteous mission. The ideas expressed in the quote by the Broederbond chairman also draw numerous parallels with the 20th century German nationalism found in Nazi Germany. Following his ascension to power in Germany, Hitler’s movement and theories resonated considerably in South Africa, particularly with the Purified National Party and the Broederbond. The Broederbond established a â€Å"voortrekker† movement for Afrikaner youth, arguably seen as analogous to the Hitler Youth . In 1938, the Ossewabrandwag was established on the model of Hitler’s national socialist movement. By the end of 1939, over three hundred thousand Afrikaners had sworn loyalty to the volk, or Afrikaner people. It sought to establish an Afrikaner controlled republic in South  Africa, by violent means if necessary. Additionally, in 1938, a centenary celebration of the Great Trek was organized that placed emphasis on the heroic struggle of the Afrikaners against British oppression. The articulation of this â€Å"sacred history† and of a struggle for survival sought to memorialize and legitimize the special place of the Afrikaner people. These sentiments are again arguably analogous to those found in the ethnic nationalist movement of Nazi Germany that stressed the special place in history of the Aryan race. In both Afrikaner nationalism and German nationalism, the nation has a mystical and divine quality. In addition, the Afrikaner and German people are also considered to possess certain special and unique characteristics such as language, culture, and history that transcend the individual and contribute to a national unity. The emphasis of a special and unique Afrikaner identity expressed in the quote by the Broederbond chairman in 1944 can be seen in Hendrik Verwoerd’s argument for apartheid in 1950. As the minister of native affairs in the first National Party government, Verwoerd met with African members of the Native Representative Council to explain his theory and justification of apartheid. Basing his argument in the concept of ethnic nationalism, he asserts that Afrikaner and African communities must be divorced in order for both parties to prosper. It is impossible for two distinct and unique peoples to achieve their ideal futures while intermingled because each has their own particular path and calling. Verwoerd argues that tension and conflict are inevitable in mixed societies. The mixing of languages, traditions, and cultures in South Africa are only detrimental to the development of both the Afrikaner and African people. Appealing to African leaders for their cooperation in installing an apartheid policy, Verwoerd states that, â€Å"Instead of striving after vague chimeras and trying to equal the European in an intermingled community with confused ideals and inevitable conflict, he can be a national figure helping to lead his own people along the road of peace and prosperity. He can help give the educated men and women of his people an opportunity to†¦fully realize their ambitions within their own sphere† (Clark and Worger, 141). His explanation of apartheid places a significant emphasis on the purity of a people’s descent and the continuation of this line as the key to secure an ideal future. Both Afrikaners and Africans can only truly realize their full potential within their own cultural and ethnic sphere.

Unregistered Trade Marks Of Hong Leong Bank Bhd Marketing Essay

Unregistered Trade Marks Of Hong Leong Bank Bhd Marketing Essay Disclaimer: The trade marks, service marks, and logos (the Trade Marks) of Hong Leong Bank Bhd used and displayed in this paper are registered and/or unregistered Trade Marks of Hong Leong Bank Bhd and respective groups. Nothing on this paper should be construed as granting, by implication, or otherwise, any license or right to use any Trade Mark displayed on this paper, without the written permission of the respective authority. Views expressed in this report are those of the author. Table of Contents About Hong Leong 4 Industry Analysis 4 Why Porters 5 Model 4 Limitations of Porters Model 6 Strategic Capability Analysis 6 3.1 Stakeholders 7 3.2 SWOT Analysis 7 3.2.1 Why SWOT Analysis 7 3.2.2 Hong Leong Bank SWOT Analysis 7 3.3.3 Limitations of SWOT Analysis 9 Strategic Choices 9 4.1 Strategic Choices 9 4.1.1 Why Porters Generic Strategy 9 4.2 Strategic Direction 10 4.2.1 Why Ansoff Matrix 10 4.3 Method for Pursuing Strategic Direction 12 4.4 Implication and Evaluation of Analysis 12 Justification of a Strategy 13 5.1 McKinsey Growth Pyramid 13 Conclusion 15 References 16 Abbreviations HLB Hong Leong Bank PIN Personal Identification Number SMS Short Messaging Service SME Small and Medium Enterprise RM Ringgit Malaysia SMI Small and Medium Industry ISO International Standard Organization BNM Bank Negara Malaysia ATM Automated Teller Machine About Hong Leong Bank Hong Leong Bank Berhad was found by Ji Chiew. The bank starts operations in 1905 in Kuching, Sarawak. In 1 January 1982, the Head Office relocated from Kuching to Kuala Lumpur. The consolidation of banking institution to meet the requirement of Bank Negara Malaysia marks another milestone for Hong Leong Bank Berhad. Hong Leong Bank Berhad was listed on Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange on 17 October 1994. The market capitalization as of recent days is RM 470 million, according to bank website. Hong Leong Bank has diversified the businesses into financial services, manufacturing, and property and infrastructure development. The services available are personal financial services such as credit cards, investment, loan, deposits, insurance, priority banking, personal banking and Hong Leong Club Rewards for customer loyalty (Hong Leong Bank, 2009). Industry Analysis 2.1 Why Porters 5 models Porters model determines the competitiveness of an organization using the five different forces and shows how the forces are related. To develop business strategies effectively, organizations must understand and act in response to those forces. (Porter, 1985) (Fornell and Wernerfelt, 1987) Rivalry Among Existing Competitors There are 37 banks, which are recognized and licensed to operate in Malaysia and more financial institution are opening soon. The trend of increment of the number of banks within the industry is fast and there are great challenges for HLB to create and maintain a good market share. Other banks are seems to be more aggressive to get and retain customers. This force is not in favor of Hong Leong Bank. (BNM, 2009) Threat of Substitute Products and Services Even though there are many financial institutions available, some unique facilities can only be obtained from the bank only. American Express facilities, co-branded products (e.g. MTV), higher interest rate, club rewards, junior/senior savings, overdraft are the few products which only available to this bank. Thus this force is in favor to the bank. (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) (BNM, 2009) Bargaining Power of Buyers Having the whole range of financial players apart from the retail banks, it is evident that customers can move within the 40 operators and can also decide to switch to the other non-banking institutions. Their choice can even extend to the insurance companies, depending on the nature of the product. For instance if a customer is looking for a small amount of loan, he/she can even get the said product from organizations like AEON, etc. The close location of various banks is also giving customer a very high bargaining power too. For instance in a location of Puchong Jaya, along the street of Jalan Kenari it is easy to find at least 9 banks within 100 meters Maybank, Public Bank, Eon Bank, CIMB Bank, HSBC, Alliance Bank, Bank Simpanan Nasional, UOB. With this concentration the bargaining of customers always goes high before customers start looking on a differentiated service. For the said bank, this is absolutely a negative favor since the potential customers can shift easily to differ ent point. (BNM, 2009) Bargaining Power of Suppliers The core business of the Hong Leong Bank is product and services which mainly focuses on safety of monetary management. The suppliers provide some tangibles like checkbooks, lockers, private banking, priority banking. The impact of these in HLB is not much significant since they are not really like the raw material. (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) Threat of New Entrants The Bank Negara Malaysia has set a minimum capital requirement of RM5 billion for a bank to be registered. The conditions set for registering a bank are not difficult to obtain, hence entry barriers become low. Thus more foreign owned financial firms are keen to open their business in Malaysia. Certainly these institutions will pose threat on existing banking business as theyll have unique products and services. This force is not in favor of Hong Leong Bank. . (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) From the above analysis of HLB 5 forces analysis, the diagram below will provide a summary of the banks overall industry analysis. Threat of New Entrants (-) Threat of Substitute Products and Services (+) Bargaining Power of Buyers (-) Rivalry among existing competitors (-) Bargaining Power of Buyers (+) 2.2 Limitations of the Porters Model Porters 5 force analysis talks about the external forces applicable to the outside of business. Todays business is much more vast and robust requiring dynamic approaches which should be an integration of different approaches rather than depends on a single analysis. Internal factor analysis requires much analysis as external. Designing, visioning and learning approaches should be considered when an industry analysis is done. Proters 5 forces are lack of these factors. (Porter, 1985) (Gronroos, 1997) Strategic Capability Analysis 3.1 Stakeholders Stakeholder Analysis identifies important groups of people or individuals that can have an influence on the Project. These Stakeholders can have their own objectives and views, which may differ and conflict with other Stakeholders. A Stakeholder Analysis is required to identify all the parties who are directly or indirectly affected by the enterprises operations. This includes not only the traditional shareholders, but also some new groups that the insights of sustainable development tell us must be consulted in decisions that affect them. (Roberts, Varki, and Brodie, 2003) (Fombrun and Shanley, 1990) In an organization, internal stakeholder is the employees or people who work inside the organization. External stakeholders exist outside the organization but have a direct interest in what it does (e.g. shareholders, governments, customers) etc. (Roberts, Varki, and Brodie, 2003) 3.2 SWOT Analysis 3.2.1 Why SWOT Analysis? SWOT analysis is a tool for auditing an organization and its environment. It is the first stage of planning and helps marketers to focus on key issues. SWOT stands for strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Strengths and weaknesses are internal factors. Opportunities and threats are external factors. (Spreng and Chiou, 2002) In SWOT, strengths and weaknesses are internal factors and opportunities and threats are external factors. 3.2.2 Hong Leong Bank SWOT Analysis Strength Hong Leong Bank Berhad (HLB) principal activity is providing consumer-banking services including credit cards, investment, mortgage, deposits, insurance and priority banking. Other activities include business banking, trade financing, working capital facilities, treasury, foreign exchange, money market operations, capital market securities trading, investment, and takaful business. It has been recognized as one of the most profitable bank in Malaysia. (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) It has 186 branches, 17 business centers with talented and motivated employees throughout Malaysia making it one of the most widened banking sectors in Malaysia. Their first award year 2004, an acknowledgement for their active participation in spurring the growth of the SMEs in the country. This award certainly spur Hong Leongs strength to bring more value added financial services to customers and the SMI community and to help them face the extremely challenging and competitive business environment both locally and globally. Launched in October 2005; the Hong Leong Mobile Credit Card is the first of its kind, allowing customers who are provided with a six-digit personal identification number (PIN) to pay for goods and services using mobile phones via short messaging service (SMS). This offering is the result of Hong Leong Bank tie-up with technology provider Mobile Money International Sdn. Bhd. This unique method of payment, known as Mobile Money is speedy, convenient and cost effective. Using only the mobile phone for approval of transactions and payments, there is no longer a need for the physical plastic card, merchant terminals or Internet terminals. Payment requests are delivered via SMS. There is no need for card members to be present at the point of sales or at the merchant outlets. Payments can therefore be made from wherever card members are, at whichever place where there are mobile phone signals. (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) In 2007, Hong Leong Bank bagged the Asian Bankers Best e-Banking Project 2007 with its Internet banking offering, Hong Leong Online. The award recognizes the best emerging technology practices and benchmarks in Asia Pacific banks. Apart from the Asian Banker award, Hong Leong has also been ranked as the third most popular Malaysian online banking site. Online banking transactions helped the bank save about RM24mil from March to October 2007 as each online transaction cost about 20% compared with about RM3.50 for every over-the-counter transaction. Weakness In line with its strong customer service culture, the HLB continues to maintain its superior delivery standards which have been behind against international ISO standards. HLB is yet attained bank-wide ISO 9001:2000 certifications for customer service at the front office of its branches and bank-wide loan delivery service. This is a major drawback for the HLB to have a better customer base. (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) As to compete in the industry of banking, interest rate is a major challenge as customer will choose for a higher interest rate for savings account and for the lowest interest rate for the loans that the customers are seeking for their financial assistances and better service for the customer. Hong Leong Bank needs to change according to the environment as to compete and remain as the market leader. (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) As Hong Leong Bank has moved ahead to the Electronic banking or transaction there is greater risk or security threats circulated to the users of online banking or transaction. There are non technical threats such as phising whereby it is the act of tricking someone into giving them confidential information or tricking them into doing something that they normally wouldnt do. The common applications of this approach is to send fake emails (email spoofing) to a victim purporting to come from a legitimate source and requesting information (such as the bank account number and the password) or directing the victim to a fake internet website where this information can be captured. Opportunities The bank may recruit young and talented staffs and provide them proper training to create a talent base as well as provide job to those who are in need. This may also reduces the unemployment rates in Malaysia. This talent base is able to adopt with internal formation and usually stay with the bank until the end. (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) As the banking industry grows and provides opportunities for the local customers indirectly it also given an opportunity to the foreigners who stays in Malaysia. They tend to use banking services more frequently to have different types of account. This additional customer base will bring more money inside the bank and of course banks will gain profit from various types of transactions. (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) Bringing the bank closer to the consumer could be the vital opportunity. Providing a payment gateway where ATM card could be used as like a credit card for everyday usages. Since these customers will use won money, bank may encourage them to save more to get more benefits. Establishing more ATM and branches and electronic features (e.g Western Union money transfer) will definitely bring more customers in. (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) Threats Ease of distributing credit card could be a disturbing role the bank is playing. While credit card repayments are depends fully on customer payment, if it is not paid, bank has to go long way. (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) The bank is not really in forefront position to introduce new products and service as market demand changes. It if often seen that the bank introduces the products in different name when the service is already available in the market by other bank. (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) 3.2.3 Limitations of SWOT Analysis SWOT analysis usually very subjective. It simply looks at the negative factors first in order to turn them into positive factors. So it is advisable to use SWOT as guide and not as prescription. (Spreng and Chiou, 2002) Strategic Choices 4.1 Generic Strategy 4.1.1 Why Porters Generic Strategy Generic strategies are widely used today even though it was invented in 1980s. Three options are available for organizations to adopt to achieve sustainability which are cost leadership, differentiation and focus. Each of the three options are considered in two aspects of the competitive environment: (i) Competitive advantage talks about the prices (high or low) of the products, (ii) Competitive scope talks about the market size (narrow or broad). (Porter, 1985) (Chen, 1999) (Sanzo et al, 2003) Overall Cost Leadership The low cost products are the product leader in the market. It may also included the time required to built and delivery the products to customers. As it is mentioned earlier, using online banking, it would help the bank as well as customers to save more. Developing and maintaining online business is not low-priced itself. Yet it could provide vital thumbs-up to banks generic strategy. If more customers opt for online transactions, bank wouldnt have to spent time on serving customer physically thus itll requires less resources (e.g. less branch, less employees). These less resources will push ahead the bank with extra finance to improve other services. (Harris and Goode, 2004) (Sanzo et al, 2003) Differentiation Differentiated goods and services are designed to satisfy the customers with the lowest price/cost available for similar kind of products. HLB Flexi FD is a fixed deposit product which gives higher interest rate to the customer. Thus the bank will be in risk of loosing money. So it has to bring and retain much customer to cover the loss. The loss must be cover to be competitive. Since banking industry changes rapidly, HLB will have to customize the products and services over times to hold ensure customer satisfaction. (Dannenberg and Kellner, 1998) (Jones, Mothersbaugh, and Beatty, 2000) Focus In focus an organization can afford neither a wide scope cost leadership nor does a wide scope differentiation strategy, Here an organization focus effort and resources on a narrow segment of a market. Competitive advantage is generated specifically for the niche. A company has two options to choose: use either a cost focus or a differentiation focus. Taken example of HLB structured investments. Invested amounts are 3rd-party transactions and bank itself doesnt provide any guarantee of returns of money to the customer. In this segment, HLB is a low profile character. Even though bank is charging some commission on the investments, customers who are willing to invest are to do so at own risk. (Jarvelin and Lehtinen, 1996) (Evans and Beltramini, 1987) 4.2 Strategic Directions 4.2.1 Why Ansoff Matrix The Ansoff Growth matrix is a strategic direction tool that helps businesses decides their strategies for growth. Ansoffs product/market growth matrix discuss about the strategies on which the business deliver new or current products in new or current markets. Overall output of Ansoff product/market matrix is sets of strategies that set the direction for the business growth. (Auh et al, 2007) (Sanzo et al, 2003) These are described below: Market penetration Market penetration is a general name of selling current products into current markets. The bank continuously introduces loan and credit products to customers to leap ahead. Since the banks most incomes come from loan and credit facility, reshape of current products will ensure market growth and increase of usages by existing customers. Market penetration for HLB will be focused on the central markets that it is very familiar with, competitors are known, customer needs are defined and returns are potential. (Gustafsson, Johnson, and Roos, 2005) (Agrawal, 2001) http://strategyiseverywhere.files.wordpress.com/2007/12/ansoff_matrix.png Market development Market development tells about the distribution of current products in new market. With its existing banking facilities, the bank introduces private banking for the customers who loves personal banking. For everyday needs of banking, investment, loan, protection a dedicated personal banker is always there to serve the individual customer to fill their needs. These personal banking is nothing different than existing policies; focus goes to its loyal customers which puts big amount inside the bank. (Dannenberg and Kellner, 1998) (Filotto, Tanzi, and Saita, 1997) Product development Product development is the name given to a growth strategy where a business aims to introduce new products into existing markets. Saving multiplier plans is recently introduced by the bank. Hong Leong Savings Multiplier Plan is a unique investment tool that utilizes the powerful concept of Dollar-Cost-Averaging and offers a customized solution to tackle the distinct financial challenges throughout different life stages be it to secure a comfortable retirement or to ensure a steady flow of pension-like funds or for putting aside adequate funds even for childrens education. Islamic banking is another example of product development. (Metawa and Almossawi, 1998) (Haron, Ahmad and Planisek, 1994). Diversification Diversification is the growth strategy where new products are to be delivered in new market. This strategy is more risky for business growth as often business takes longer time to survive in a new market. HLB recently spread their business in Vietnam. Since Vietnamese culture differs from Malaysia, the bank has to adopt the culture as well as compete with well established Vietnamese banks. (Shankar, Smith, and Rangaswamy, 2003) (Evans and Beltramini, 1987) 4.3 Method for Pursuing Strategic Direction Forward Looking Policy Monetary policy management needs a forward-looking policy due to the time gap between policy actions and their intended effects on output and inflation. HLB built a macro model which would determine the impact of policy actions. Understanding the microeconomic factors are important too determine the inter-linkage of monetary policy mechanism. (Fornell and Wernerfelt, 1987) Deepening of Financial Markets New financial products are traded in the Money/Bonds market by the introduction of Hong Leong Banks Debt Capital Markets Structured Finance (DCM/Structured Finance) unit within Wholesale Banking provides innovative tailor-made solutions to financial institutions, corporate, agencies and high net-worth individuals through comprehensive offerings in the debt capital markets. (Dannenberg and Kellner, 1998) Strong Foreign Currency Reserve Foreign exchange reserves form part of the national assets and these needs to be deployed rationally keeping in mind the principles of safety, liquidity, and return. The reserves, which are currently deployed by the HLBs in-house reserve management treasury dealers, are in short-term high quality bank deposits. (Naser, Jamal, and Al-Khatib, 1999) Reliable and Secured Payment Systems To reduce the settlement time significantly and increase cost effectiveness the bank plans to establish an electronic clearinghouse to do almost every transactions online with tighten security and handy usability. Opening an account, apply for credit cards are already in place. The bank further steps in mobile banking for dedicated user. Recently the bank introduces e-broker services (HLeBroking). HLeBroking allows the flexibility of placing orders either through a phone call to our trading hub or via the internet. Professional dealers centralized in the hub are always on hand to execute transactions and monitor shares investment portfolio. (Shankar, Smith, and Rangaswamy, 2003) (Harris and Goode, 2004) 4.4 Implication and Evaluation of Analysis During this analysis it was assumed that strategies are reasonably orderly and knowable and, in turn, that evidence can help to evaluate theories that claim to explain these strategic positions. Data and information often founded confusing and imperfect. It seems almost certain that no single study can validate or invalidate a theory. Besides, there is a good chance that a large number of studies will not generate consistent results. (Agrawal, 2001) The methodology were used in analysis is not about developing a foolproof system; it is at least partly an art. There is no mechanical system that will escape judgment, sense, and intelligence. But this does not eliminate the need for techniques and standards. Product delivery approaches, geography, demography does plays role in strategic position which were missing in the analysis done. (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) The strategic planning process adopted by HLB was participative, consultative and result oriented. But the takes time to achieve results. While some important factors the bank missed out during strategic choices, individual departments must do their respective environmental scans through a SWOT analysis whereby they identified their internal strengths and weaknesses as well as the external opportunities and threats. (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) Business trends changes randomly. Todays product may not be available tomorrow. Thus no strategic plan could be exactly fit into business strategy. However, HLB could consider a more diversified strategy which would be more beneficial to determine strategic stand. Justification of a Strategy As the strategic position and strategic choices are different from the matrix analysis, a better strategic growth model is optimal solution. 5.1 McKinsey Growth Pyramid McKinsey growth pyramid is an upgraded version of Ansoff Matrix with broader discussing of important strategic factors. With every possible action there are certain alternatives (e.g. acquisition, joint ventures, alliances etc) with risk measurement from low to high. Existing products to existing customers This is considered lowest risk options go on businesses with current asset and current customer. But itll not be much beneficial for bank in long terms. Existing products to new customers Introduce existing products to new customer which may help them meet their daily financial needs so that they dont look for other financial choices. Consumers always look for much return while bank always looks for low give-away. New customers can be a turning point for any bank. Demographical (e.g. adult, children, senior) products would be vital products to attract new customers. (Harris and Goode, 2004) New products and services Over time, new products must be channeled into banking business. Broader distribution if Islamic banking could be a important factor. It is seen that many nom-Muslims adopted for Islamic banking. Since there is trend of Islamic banking growth, the bank should not take the risk to risk the potential customers due to lack of proper preparation. Some of the products may be delivered to existing customers. Risk may incur if the products doesnt appeal the customers. (El-Bdour and Erol, 1989) (Gerrad and Cunningham, 1997) New delivery approaches Todays consumer seek more convenient service provider. Banks are not exempted indeed. Many banks had adopted special facilities for different customers. Priority banking could be one solution. In priority banking everyone is unique and therefore has very specific financial needs. Thats why bank will offer a comprehensive range of privileges for convenience. Setting up special services only for young generation can be another important product delivery approaches. Dedicated services will invite more young generation to adopt the services. However, it could cost the bank some extra amount and if the products are not selling well, bank will face loss of resources. (Yoon, Guffey, and Kijewski, 1993) (Mols, 2001) http://www.filecluster.com/screenshots/61893.gif New geographies Geographical expansion is one of the most powerful options for growth but also one of the most difficult. The bank already went global opening branches in Singapore and Vietnam. This strategy is proven fine for well reputed bank (e.g. Citibank) but it has to be cautious in business. Geographical movement may bring new customers with solid financial needs but the bank has narrow down the scope of services due to high risk. (Sanzo et al, 2003) New industry structure The bank may re-assert the liquidity franchise and continue to address the yield challenge. While economics of the business have changed, unlike other countries, pricing and credit spreads did not adjust in tandem in the Malaysia. The quality of strategic asset-liability management, liquidity and capital management differentiates. Re-asserting core businesses with efficiency, unit cost management, operating leverage, dynamic pricing as well as customer value or returns on each customer relationship. Cross-selling and customer service are key success factors. (Agrawal, 2001) New competitive arenas Using competitive arena, business may transfer their resources and knowledge to new industry using vertical integration. This may pose immense risk to bank itself. Bank may loose it all investment. Despite the risk, this will help the bank grows rapidly and spread their products throw many distribution channels. (Gronroos, 1997) Conclusion The pre- and post-crisis strategic postures are a tale of worldwide economic fall down. The postures are characterized by the scaling up of the business, refining value propositions in each business, responding to competition and price war, building new capabilities and strengthening the risk and IT infrastructure as the bank sought to incrementally improve our market share and positioning. (Hong Leong Bank, 2009) (Gustafsson, Johnson, and Roos, 2005) The era ahead is more opportunistic in nature, with a rapidly changing eco-system and higher regulatory and prudential requirements. The shadow of the state on the sector globally is more pronounced. (Auh et al, 2007) Overall, the banks competitive strategy has to pivot on a competitive delivery, consisting of quality people, knowledge base and result oriented capability, market intelligence and local community embedment, entrepreneurialism and how it organize itself to scale and build new names. As it emerges from the crisis, it needs to re-segment the customers to market changes and re-build a compelling proposition on how to scale sustainability while staying opportunistic tactically. (Auh et al, 2007) References Auh, S., Bell, S.J., McLeod, C.S., Shih, E. (2007), Co-production and customer loyalty in financial services, Journal of Retailing, Vol. 88 No.3, pp.359-70. Fombrun, C., Shanley, M. (1990), Whats in a name? Reputation building and corporate strategy, Academy of Management Journal, Vol. 33 No.2, pp.233-48. Gustafsson, A., Johnson, M., Roos, I. (2005), The effects of consumer satisfaction, relationship commitment dimensions, and triggers on consumer retention, Journal of Marketing, Vol. 69 No.4, pp.210-18. Harris, L.C., Goode, M.M.H. (2004), The four levels of loyalty and the pivotal role of trust: a study of online services dynamics, Journal of Retailing, Vol. 80 pp.139-58 Roberts, K., Varki, S., Brodie, R. (2003), Measuring the quality of relationships in consumer services: an empirical study, European Journal of Marketing, Vol. 37 No.1-2, pp.169-96. Sanzo, M.J., Santos, M.L., Và ¡zquez, R., à lvarez, L.I. (2003), The effect of market orientation on buyer-seller relationship satisfaction, Industrial Marketing Management, Vol. 32 No.4, pp.327-45. Shankar, V., Smith, A., Rangaswamy, A. (2003), Customer satisfaction and loyalty in online and offline environments, International Journal of Research in Marketing, Vol. 20 pp.153-75. Spreng, R.A., Chiou, J. (2002), A cross-cultural assessment of the satisfaction formation process, European Journal of Marketing, Vol. 36 No.7-8, pp.829-39. Yoon, E., Guffey, H.G., Kijewski, V. (1993), The effects of information and company reputation on intentions to buy a business service, Journal of Business Research, Vol. 27 pp.215-28. Porter, M E. (1985) Competitive Advantage: Creating and Sustaining Superior Performance, New York: The Free Press. Gronroos, C., (1997) Value-driven Relations Marketing: From Products to Resources and Competencies. Journal of Marketing Management, Volume 13, Number 5, p. 407-419. Agrawal, P. (2001), The relation between savings and growth: co-integration and causality evidence from Asia, Applied Economics, Vol. 33, pp. 499-513. Chen, T.Y. (1999), Critical success factors for various strategies in the banking industry, International Journal of Bank Marketing, Vol. 17 No. 2, pp. 83-91. Dannenberg, M. and Kellner, D. (1998), The bank of tomorrow with todays technology, International Journal of Bank Marketing, Vol. 16 No. 2, pp. 90-7. Filotto, U., Tanzi, P.M. and Saita, F. (1997), Consumer needs and front-office technology adoption, International Journal of Bank Marketing, Vol. 15 No. 1, pp. 13-21. Mols, N.P. (2001), Organising for the effective introduction of new distribution channels in retail banking, Europ

hinduism vs. jainism Essay -- essays research papers

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Many people believe Hinduism to be a polytheistic religion. This is due to the fact that there is so many gods that they can worship in. But in all actuality it is really a monotheistic religion that spawns off of one god to form many different gods or ideas to worship. The entire religion of Hinduism is based off of Brahman. Brahman is the idea that all reality is a unity. I will explain the concept of Brahman and four others and hopefully make Hinduism easier to comprehend.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Some have viewed Hinduism as a monotheistic religion, because it recognizes only one supreme God: â€Å"the pantheistic principle of Brahman, that all reality is a unity. The entire universe is seen as one divine entity, Brahman. Brahman is simultaneously at one with the universe and Brahman transcends it as well.† (www.relgioustolerance.org) Breaking Brahman down is essential, let’s look at the previous quote. First of all, pantheistic means that: there is a belief in and worship of all gods, which means that Brahman is not a singular concept. The quote then goes on to say that Brahman is throughout the entire universe. This means that Brahman can be found in infinite objects. This is why people may view Hinduism as polytheistic because of their belief in many objects and ideas. The last line says that Brahman not only at one with the universe but also Brahman transcends it. This means that Brahman may be found in on Earth, but he also greater than the concept of Earth. Brahman is on a bigger playing field than that of Earth.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Vishnu, known as the Preserver, preserves new creations and comes down to Earth during critical times in the â€Å"cosmic cycles.† Vishnu is one of the main Hindu gods, worshiped as the protector and preserver of worlds. Vishnu is considered one of the main gods along with Brahman and Shiva. Shiva, known as the Destroyer, is at times compassionate, erotic and destructive. One of the principal Hindu deities, Shiva is worshiped as the destroyer and restorer of worlds and in many other forms. Whenever dharma is threatened, Vishnu travels from heaven to earth in one of ten incarnations. Shiva is considered a member of the triad also including Brahma and Vishnu. Dharma is the law of the Hindus. Dharma is the individual obligation with respect to caste, social custom, civil law, and sacred ... ...as human beings we are not above any other species. We want to treat every bit of matter as we would want to be treated. This means that to kill some part of the universe, whether a cow or a fish is very bad karma. This is why Jains practice such strict vegetarianism. Jains even avoid eating after sunset so not to kill any bugs unknowingly. This is how strong the practice of Ahisma is.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The second principle I want to identify is anekantwad. It can be roughly translated as relativity. Anekantwad basically is the belief that there is no one main idea, no one truth, but many truths that are represented by different viewpoints. Anekantwad is the thought that that there is many different aspects to situations. And, that we shouldn’t all look at some things the same way.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The third principal and final term is aparigraha. Aparigraha is the idea of living on as a little as required. Aparigraha is the nonattachment to people and material things. Basically, possessions can control a person. Things of the world can draw up into trouble. Jains believe that the less we have the better off we will be and will be able to escape samsara.

Parents Must be Involved in their Childrens Education :: Persuasive Essays, Argumentative Essays

Have you heard the old adage, â€Å"It takes a village to raise a child?† Even in today’s busy world where villages are almost nonexistent and neighborhoods aren’t as closely knit as they once were, this saying holds true. The same principle applies to your child’s education—it takes more than a good school to educate children, just as takes more than a good home to make children well adjusted. It takes community, teachers, and it takes YOU! Did you know that children spend over 1,000 hours a year in school? So, if they go to school for 13 years, that adds up to 13,000 hours when someone else teaches, influences, molds and cares for your children. But, if parents and schools work together, children can grow up as educated, competent and productive members of our society. So how can you help your children in school? One of the main ways is to get take an active role at home and at school. Research shows that children do better in school when parents talk often with teachers and become involved. Kids whose parents interact with teachers usually get higher grades and test scores, develop positive attitudes about school, and are better behaved. Parents and teachers need to communicate on a regular basis, not just at parent/teacher conferences. But sometimes, a parent doesn’t know just how to go about getting involved or how to make that positive connection with the teacher and/or school. So, where do you start? It is best to try and meet teachers early in the school year. This will help the teacher better understand your values, your child, and also lets them know that you support your child’s education. Teachers like to have parents who are interested in a child’s progress. If you are involved in school activities and events you will have added chances to talk with you children’s’ teachers. Becoming involved in PTO, PTA, and Booster Clubs also gives you a change to get to know the teachers better. On top of that, involvement in groups related to the school give you a chance to have some say in the decisions that may affect your children. You don’t have to be involved in everything. Choose something that is manageable and give it your all. Another good investment in your child’s education is to volunteer. What you do will depend on the needs at your school and your abilities, but usually the possibilities are endless.

Uniformity and Deformity in Harrison Bergeron Essay -- Harrison Berger

Uniformity and Deformity in Harrison Bergeron In this essay, I will attempt to explore what Kurt Vonnegut illustrated in his short story "Harrison Bergeron"--the fact that uniformity (of any kind) leads to the loss of individuality, and therefore to absolute deformity of humanness. "The year was 2081, and everybody was finally equal," the story begins. "They weren't only equal before God and the law. They were equal in every which way." (Vonnegut 1968:7) In this haunting story, Vonnegut probably wanted to warn our society of similar kind of equality, equality that can be fatal for human race. The theme of absolute equality has already appeared two years before "Harrison Bergeron" was published for the first time in Fantasy and Science-Fiction Magazine (1961). It was Vonnegut's novel The Sirens of Titan. However, in this work the theme is only a minor feature and is not really developed (see Vonnegut 1975:158). The idea probably intrigued Kurt Vonnegut and forced him to develop it into a short story. Those who are familiar with Kurt Vonnegut's writing will certainly recognize some other themes of this story. For example the fear of de-humanization of human beings, being stuck in amber (Harrisons inability to overthrow the system) and so forth. In "Harrison Bergeron", Kurt Vonnegut presented a scary view of a future society, where everyone was equal. "Nobody was smarter than anybody else. Nobody was better looking than anybody else. Nobody was stronger or quicker than anybody else." (Vonnegut 1988:7). It was the job of the agents of the United States Handicapper General to keep it this way. Beautiful people had to wear u... ...g speciesism, we can end up like in the short story by Kilgore Trout "Hail to the Chief", where a chimpanzee became the President of the United States. "The chimpanzee wore a little blue blazer with brass buttons, and with the seal of the President of the United States sewed to the breast pocket. Everywhere he went, bands would play 'Hail to the Chief.' The chimpanzee loved it. He would bounce up and down." (Vonnegut 1992:88) References: Sturgeon, Theodore Godbody New York: Vonnegut, Kurt Jr. Breakfast of Champions London: 1992; Cox & Wyman Ltd. Vonnegut, Kurt Jr. God Bless You, Mr. Rosewater New York: 1978; Dell Publishing Vonnegut, Kurt Jr.The Sirens of Titan London: 1975; Coronet Books Vonnegut, Kurt Jr.Welcome to the Monkey House New York: 1988; Bantam Doubleday, Dell Publishing