Crisis Towards Zapatistan Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Crisis Towards Zapatistan - Essay Example The historical research was conducted till the contemporary time, ending at decolonization. Then I undertook an extensive study of primary sources which include Newspapers, academic journals, Television documentaries, news reels and Fiction Literature including poetry. I have also directed my research towards the emergence of militant/extremist Islam in its International context. The List of all the sources is attached. This research was a precursor to field appraisal visits to Zapatistan. A total of six visits were undertaken often under hostile conditions. During the course of these visits I sought audience and conducted interviews with President Marcos, The leader of Islamist Reform Party Mr. Wasih Mehtazberam, The General Secretary of Christian Nationalist Front; Mr. Corazine Constantine and I also managed to secure a brief but very productive tte--tte with Imam Nasir Fazlullah, the elusive Guerilla Leader, in his secret stronghold in Tien Shan Mountains, bordering People's Repub lic of China. Besides talking to these luminaries, I often held illuminating discussions with University Professors, Traders, Oilmen and the person on the street. It was difficult however to directly talk to women across the strict gender segregated divide, especially in Muslim quarters, but fortunately I had a lady colleague; Ms. Iona Wazir, who conducted these talks. Her report has been structured in this memo, however a separate report can be provided if required. I will now outline, albeit briefly the historical development of Zapatistan, so as to contextualize the present crisis. Zapatistan is a landlocked country and shares its borders with Russia to the North and West, PRC to the East, Iran and Afghanistan to the South and South East respectively. It has key geopolitical and economic importance. The primary income generating activity is agriculture, in which 76% of the population is involved. The farm work is managed by small family units, both men and women are agricultural labourers. The Market and trade in agriculture is dominated and controlled by middlemen. A major portion of agriculture produce is exported through state owned and controlled 'Zapatistan Trading Corporation'. This dominance of middlemen and bureaucratic control of trade has been a major cause/contributor to rural poverty. There is a nascent textile and sugar industry but it is also state controlled, the minimum wage of industrial labour is less than 5$ per day, fomenting frequent trade union unrest and harsh reprisals by the regime. The country is rich in Minerals, primarily Oil and Natural Gas. Petrochemical Sale accounts for 90% of state earnings. The extraction and production of Oil is state controlled and is leased out to Shell and British Petroleum. The oil is shipped through a pipeline to Black Sea for The Shell International Refinery. The Muslim dominated Southern region is rich in oil; however the northern highlands also have sizeable oil deposits. The Oil revenues are controlled by the state and wealth has 'trickeled down' at least to the urban areas. The few major cities now reflect the oil boom and have been redesigned by best Urban Planning Firms in the world. The town squares are dominated by statues of the President and his family members. Zapatistan was colonized by Imperial Russia in 1756 and gained its independence

Measuring Respect Essay Example for Free

Measuring Respect Essay Campbell-Ewald, an award winning integrated communications agency, noticed that their customer relationship management (CRM) solutions were not meeting the expectations that they should. In order to gain an understanding of how respect influences customer loyalty and purchasing, they team up with a research company, Synovate and developed three different surveys. The surveys consisted of 27 to 29 attitudinal statements that customer use a 5-point scale to rate. They statements were designed to measure how the customers defined respect and how important respect was in determining a purchase. They selected more than 5,000 customers from each business sectors: insurance, automotive, and retail, and mailed them the survey to complete. The customers they selected to survey were adults at least 18 years of age (Cooper Schindler, 2011). Once they had received the completed surveys they analyzed the results. They then used the results to validate the relevance of its five â€Å"People Principles†. The five â€Å"People Principles† were: ? Appreciate me ?Intentions don’t matter; actions do ?Listen; then you’ll know what I said. ?It’s about me, not about you. ?Admit it- you goofed! These five â€Å"People Principles† have helped companies like General Motors, Continental Airlines, and Farmers Insurance incorporate respectful behaviors into their business operations (Cooper Schindler, 2011). When Campbell-Ewald and Synovate developed the surveys they knew that they needed to address respect from all areas such as how a customer ranks respect to loyalty, respect to purchases, respect to continue purchases, and respect to referrals. By gaining a complete overview on how a customer reviews respect then they could develop the five â€Å"People Principles† that their clients could use to improve customer service, increase revenue, gain a competitive advantage, and build a thriving business. Campbell-Ewald knew that their research, findings, and developments would be what would make them successful. By using the numerical scale survey they were placing the same standards on all statements, which make the evaluation process easier. When conducting a survey, the more customers you select to survey will increase the number of responses that a research company will receive back. It is not likely that all 5000 customers responded but I am sure well over 50 percent responded, which gave them a diverse poll of responses. Whereas, if they had chose to survey only 100 customers then they may have received only 30 responses, which is not enough when conducting such research. Using the numerical scale makes tally and measuring the result easier, which will make the comparison easier. Also, by using the numerical scale a research firm eliminates the opportunity for researchers to be swayed by a person comments or opinions, a person either agrees or does not agree with no explanation.

Antigone :: essays research papers

Antigone In the play Antigone, the debate over who is the real tragic hero is and the controversy of Greek ideals in the Antigone continues on to this day. Who is the tragic hero in Antigone? Is it Antigone herself or is it Creon the ruler of Thebes? The belief that Antigone is, is a strong one. Still there are people who think Creon is the tragic hero. Antigone is widely thought as the tragic her. The play is named after her. In addition, she is the antagonist in it. Many people usually associate the antagonist, the good guy as a tragic hero. Look at much television shows, especially cartoons, the good person usually wins. Then there are those who might think Creon was the tragic hero because the gods were against him, and that he truly loved his country. There are five criteria or standards you must meet first in order to be a tragic hero. First, you must be a person of high character or status. The character must not be too overwhelmingly evil or good. Then they must be brought from h appiness to misery. Then brought from happiness to misery. Second, the hero enacts a harmartia, "wrong act." This either may be a flaw in judgment or an error. Third, the hero experiences a perpateia, reversal of fortune. This is the tragic downfall or plot twist in the story. Fourth, the hero recognizes his or her responsibility. Fifth, the story ends with a catastrophe. The catastrophe either may be an emotional event, this even may be a death. The Antigone is widely thought of as the tragic heroine of the play bearing her name. She would seem to fit the part in light of the fact that she dies doing what is right. Antigone buries her brother Polynices, but Creon does not like her doing that one bit. Creon says to Antigone, "Why did you try to bury your brother? I had forbidden it. You heard my edict. It was proclaimed throughout Thebes. You read my edict. It was posted up on the city walls." (Pg. 44) Antigone buries her brother without worrying about what might happen to her. By doing this, she takes into consideration death and other consequences for burying her brother. Antigone follows what she thinks is right according to the gods. She is the supporter of her actions in the burial of Polynices.

The Articles of Confederation :: essays research papers

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The Articles of Confederation was the first constitution of the United States. The Articles took place from March 1, 1781 to June 21, 1788. At the time of the American Revolution, the Articles were written by a committee of the Second Continental Congress. John Dickson was the head of the committee. He presented a report on the proposed articles to the Congress on July 12, 1776. He wanted a strong central government, control over the western lands, equal representation for the states, and the power to levy taxes. A powerful central government was feared by the thirteen states.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  John Dickson’s articles were drastically changed before they sent them to all the states for ratification. The Continental Congress had been careful to give the states as much independence as possible and to specify the limited functions of the federal government. Many years passed before the states ratified the articles. Disagreements were made over boundary lines. Decisions were made by state courts, on differing tariff laws, and trade restrictions between the states. The small states wanted equal representation with the large states in Congress, and the large states were afraid they would have to pay an excessive amount of money to support the federal government. The states continued to disagree over control of the western territories. The states wanted the government to control the sale of these territories so that all the states profited. The bordering states wanted to control as much land as they could. The states eventually agreed to give control of all western lands to the federal government, paving the way for final ratification of the articles on March 1, 1781.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The articles created a loose confederation of independent states that gave limited powers to a central government. The national government consisted of a single house of Congress, where each state would have to vote. Out of thirteen states, three would have to give consent so the Congress could borrow money as well as declare war and enter into treaties and alliances with foreign nations. The federal government had no judicial authority and Congress only had the judicial authority to arbitrate between states. The Congress denied the power to levy taxes. The new federal government was financed by donations from the states based on the value of each state’s lands. Any amendment to the articles required the unanimous approval of all 13 states.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The Second Continental Congress wanted to limit the power of the central government so

Transactional and Transformational Leadership

Harry works in a coal mine laboratory. At the start of each shift, Harry checks the work book which his supervisor completes, where clear instructions are given as to what task is required. Generally each task listed is the same each shift, and every task has a written procedure that must be followed in order to meet Quality Assurance Standards. At the end of each shift, Harry completes his shift report which is generally the same too. Harry has worked here for 25 years under the same supervisor. He knows the work isn’t stimulating but it pays well.The supervisor is always happy with Harry because he completes the tasks that are set, and never deviates from what is expected. Harry’s supervisor is a transactional leader – a rule follower who likes procedures with no deviations and expects nothing more than those written in the work book. Carly is a new employee at the laboratory. At the start of each shift she too checks the work book in hope that maybe something new or contrary to the norm has been written. Most days she will look for something extra to do but is often reprimanded for doing something that the next shift would do.Carly detests the supervisor, wishing the supervisor offered more. Carly dreams of a supervisor who is motivational, encouraging, one who appreciates an employee who goes above and beyond what is required and would appreciate suggested improvements to age old methods. Carly dreams of a transformational leader to provide inspiration, charisma, vision and promote intelligent thinking to an otherwise mundane regulated workplace. So what is transactional and transformational leadership and what can be expected from each style?The transactional leader works with the present cultural work environment within their organisation, following existing rules, procedures, expected outcomes and operating norms (Lindgreen, A et al. 2009). They have an exchange relationship (Erkutlu 2008) with their followers/subordinates/employees, where guidance and motivation is given to ‘their followers in the direction of established goals by clarifying role and task requirements’ (Robbins et al. 2011, p. 342). It can take the form of contingent reward, management by exception (active and passive) and laissez-faire (Xirasagar 2008).Contingent reward refers to an exchange of rewards (whether verbal or tangible) for effort and good performance (Xirasagar 2008). Management by exception (active) is taking corrective action when a follower deviates from established rules and standards (Robbins et al. 2011). Management by exception (passive) is intervention taken by the transactional leader ‘only if standards are not met’ (Robbins et al. 2011, p. 342). A transactional leader of laissez-faire character is one who ‘abdicates responsibility’ and ‘avoids making decisions’ (Robbins et al. 2011, p. 342).As transactional leadership focuses on established norms and protocols, and â₠¬Ëœresults in expected outcomes’ (Erkutlu 2008, p. 711), followers will not extend themselves by going ‘above and beyond the call of duty’ (Robbins et al. 2011, p. 343). In comparison, the transformational leader is ‘capable of having a profound and extraordinary effect on followers’ (Robbins et al. 2011, p. 342) through their charismatic, visionary, inspirational, intellectually stimulating characteristics and their concern for their followers (Erkutlu 2008). They are able to inspire their followers to rise above their own self-interests.Transformational leadership consists of four sub-constructs (individualised consideration, intellectual stimulation, inspirational motivation, idealised influence) which transformational leaders can use to invoke behaviour of followers that exceeds expectations ‘for the sake of the organisation’ (Robbins et al. 2011, p. 343). Individualised consideration is displayed to the follower by ‘giving per sonal attention’ (Robbins et al. 2011, p. 342) to their development needs, support and coaching (Erkutlu 2008). Intellectual stimulation ‘promotes intelligence, rationality and careful problem solving’ (Robbins et al. 2011, p. 342).Transformational leaders are able to demonstrate idealised influence by providing vision and a sense of mission, instilling pride and gaining respect and trust (Robbins et al. 2011) along with inspirational motivation by communicating ‘high expectations’ (Robbins et al. 2011, p. 342). Although a distinction between the two could be categorised as a difference in leadership flexibility, Robbins et al. (2011) maintains that each leadership style does not actually oppose the other; rather transformational leadership builds upon transactional leadership where levels of follower effort and performance exceed that of transactional leadership alone.However each style of leadership has its own individual strengths and weaknesses. Transformational leadership appears to be heralded as the superior leadership style; although transactional leadership does have its strengths. As ‘transactional leadership results in expected outcomes’ (Erkutlu 2008, p. 711), it is effective in organisations where the desired outcome is measured against ‘clear and precise financial measures, such as revenues per customer segment or the dollar volume of cross-selling’ (Lindgreen et al.2009, p. 26).Research conducted by Liu et al. (2011) has found that in occupations of low emotional labour, transactional leadership has made a positive contribution to team innovation. Whilst Wells & Peachey (2011, p. 5) have found that there is a negative relationship ‘between transactional leadership and voluntary organizational turnover intentions’. The application of equity theory’s procedural justice (‘the perceived fairness of the process used to determine the distribution of rewards’ (R obbins et al. 2011, p.191) and distributive justice (‘perceived fairness of the amount and allocation of rewards among individuals’ (Robbins et al. 2011, p. 191) may explain this negative relationship (Wells & Peachey 2011). Conversely, transactional leadership is not without its weaknesses.Subordinates of transactional leaders may feel a lower sense of organisation commitment and job satisfaction or commit sabotage against the organisation (Erkutlu 2008). As transactional leadership relies upon defined outcomes with leaders possibly dealing with deviations from the norm ‘with harsh criticisms’ (Liu et al.2010, p. 284), subordinate performance beyond what the leader has requested should not be expected; nor the discovery of new methods of problem solving as subordinates continue using tried and tested solutions ‘for fear of reproach’ (Liu et al. 2010, p. 284).Innovation amongst employees employed in high emotional labour positions is also likel y to be depressed under a transactional leader (Liu et al. 2010). Transactional leadership doesn’t allow for followers’ self-actualisation needs to be met; therefore followers may not reach their full ‘potential and self-fulfilment’ (Robbins et al.2011, p. 177).Where transactional leadership has clear weaknesses in respect of followers performance, transformational leadership builds upon this and bolsters followers’ willingness to perform above what is required. Transformational leadership can be thought of what transactional leadership is not. Transformational leaders are acutely aware of the organisations present culture but have a definite vision for the future. They enable this vision by changing the fundamental ‘values, goals, and aspirations of followers’ (Lindgreen et al. 2009, p.15) as the followers embrace the leader’s values.The result is that the followers perform their respective duties not because they expect to be r ewarded, but because it is in agreement with their new found values (Lindgreen et al. 2009). By strategically using positive emotions, the leader is able to encourage ‘optimism and positive approaches to group tasks’ (Mitchell & Boyle 2009, p. 463). Followers of transformational leadership experience heightened motivation through their leaders’ inspirational motivation and individualised consideration.Mitchell & Boyle’s (2009, p.462) research states that this ‘increases their cognitive flexibility to accept new ideas and comments from others’. Transformational leadership has proven advantageous where customer relationship development is important, for example formal customer introductions and personal selling (Lindgreen et al. 2009). Research conducted by Camps & Rodriguez (2011) established that employees working under a transformational leader within an organisation that fostered employee learning and skill improvement did not drive the foll ower to seek employment elsewhere because of their increased skill set.‘On the contrary, they see this as a commitment to the employer that has trusted and invested in them’ (Camps & Rodriguez 2011, p. 437). Although flaunted as the preferred leadership style in comparison to transactional leadership, there are weaknesses of transformational leadership. The charismatic elements of transformational leaders are difficult to reproduce if not naturally present in the personality of the leader. Therefore, organisations seeking applicants to lead in a transformational fashion are instantly subjected to a limited pool of suitable applicants (Muijs 2011).Even when the applicant is of strong transformational personality, a poor organisation fit will fail the applicant. So too will organisational structures that impede ‘the extent to which leaders can be truly transformational’ (Muijs 2011, p. 50). Over zealous transformational leaders can also incite passive resista nce from subordinates. In this situation, the subordinates will simply wait for the leader to ‘move on’ (Muijs 2011, p. 51). This type of resistance is prevalent in organisations that have ‘rapid management turnover’ (Muijs 2011, p.51).Transactional and transformational leadership are two contemporary styles of leadership that have their own strengths and weaknesses. Transactional leadership focuses on providing followers clarified tasks requirements in order to achieve desired outcomes, whereas transformational leadership involves the ability of the leader to motivate, inspire, influence and consider their followers in order for the follower to take on the leader’s vision and perform above and beyond what is expected.Transactional leadership is effective in organisations where the desired outcome is definitive however is not conductive in promoting innovation amongst high emotional labour employees or allowing for self-actualisation needs to be met. Transformational leadership is effective in empowering followers and producing results such as employees performing above and beyond what is required. However it can be overbearing for employees who have not embraced transformational leadership exercising passive resistance to such a contemporary style of leadership.

Internationalisation Strategy for Fukamo Automobiles Company

Internationalisation Strategy for Fukamo Automobiles Company Executive Summary Fukamo Automobiles Company is a leading cars manufacturer in Brazil. The company intends to roll out an internationalisation strategy to expand to other parts of the world. The objectives of the organisation include becoming a leader in the automotive industry.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Internationalisation Strategy for Fukamo Automobiles Company specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The following report proposes an internationalisation strategy for Fukamo Automobiles Company. The strategy highlights the intentions of the company to tap into the European market. The proposed plan illustrates a strategic alliance with automobile companies in Germany, such as BMW. The Germany automotive industry is expected to provide the company with the best opportunity for innovation, production technology, and expansion. Company Background Fukamo Automobiles was started in 1912. It is one of the leading cars man ufacturing companies in Latin America with headquarters in Rio de Janeiro. The company intends to expand its operations into Europe. It hopes to develop and enhance its capabilities in product development and in research and design. According to the management, the capabilities are important if the company is to attain its objective of becoming a leader in the industry. The major aim of this organisation is to gain technological prowess from the European venture. The development will help it to expand its operations throughout Europe and the USA. The following report provides the management with a proposition for the best country to focus on in Europe. Investing in the proposed country is expected to provide Fukamo with the opportunity to attain the desired objectives. In addition, the report provides advice on the preferred entry mode into the European country. Suggestions on how to effectively manage institutional and cultural differences and other issues are also made.Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More The Proposed European Country for the Venture The preferred country for Fukamo’s internationalisation venture is Germany. The main goal for the company’s entry in Europe is to strategically derive technological innovations in automobile production. It is also aimed at enhancing Fukamo’s research and design capabilities. Germany is the best destination due to various factors. The country accounts for 20.2% of the European automobile market. German automobile industry is dominated by such companies as BMW, Volkswagen, and DaimlerChrysler. They are leading and reputable companies in the global market. The German automobile industry is very advanced technologically. The reality is evidenced by the influential automobile brands originating from the country, such as Mercedes Benz. According to Hagiu and Clipici (2009), internat ionalisation entails adopting exchange transaction modalities in relation to international markets. The strategy involves both market selection and entry modes. German automobile industry provides Fukamo with these opportunities. Pangarkar and Yuan (2009) highlight the issue of location in multinational businesses. Pangarkar and Yuan (2009) contend that this constitutes one of the major and complex decisions for these corporations. The internationalisation strategy must enhance Fukamo’s operations through innovative technology and product and design. The company can be regarded as a born-global regardless of the fact that it has no presence in Europe or USA. Chetty and Campbell-Hunt (2004) define born-global organisations as those that seek attainment of significant competitive advantage. The advantage is achieved through the use of resources and sale of outputs to multiple countries.Advertising We will write a custom report sample on Internationalisation Strategy for Fukamo Automobiles Company specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Germany has more than 125 years of experience in the production of automobiles. It is home to the world’s first internal four-stroke combustion engine (Germany Trade Invest 2013). The country, as a result, occupies a strategic position in relation to the global automotive industry. Its original equipment manufacturers’ (OEMs) account for 17% of the global production of passenger cars (Germany Trade Invest 2013). The automotive industry is the most important sector in Germany’s economy. The country has the highest concentration of OEM plants in Europe. It has an annual budget of $19.6 billion that is dedicated to research and design. The investment is reflected in the environmentally friendly technologies originating from the country (Germany Trade Invest 2013). It is estimated that about 10 patents are registered in the country each day. Such a number makes Germany the leading innovator in the world (Germany Trade Invest 2013). Fukamo is known for its extensive investment in research and development. What this means is that the operations of the company are compatible with the situation in Germany (Yip, Biscarri Monti 2000). Germany is strategically located in Europe. The location is essential for expansion purposes in the region. From Sweden, one can access the country in about 3 hours by train. A truck takes about 24 hours to travel from Spain to Germany. Ukraine is 30 hours away by train (Germany Trade Invest 2013). Institutional and Cultural Differences Various institutional and cultural factors come into play with regards to internationalisation. The differences between Fukamo and other automobile companies in Germany are informed by these factors (Buckley 1993). The success of Fukamo’s internationalisation strategy is determined by these differences (Taggart 1998).Advertising Looking for report on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More According to Hill (2010), the operations of international companies are affected by social, economic, technological, and political elements. The concepts of national business systems, culture, and institutions are very essential in internationalisation (Pan Xiaolian 2000). Institutional culture determines the impacts of social institutions on international organisations (Freyssenet Lung 2007). National culture and institutions expand the span of the institutional approach (Leung Ang 2008). Hill (2010) conceptualises national business systems as formal institutional structures. The systems may be categorised into command (communist) and capitalist (liberal) economies (Hill 2010). The categories are generalised since national business systems vary between different countries (Madsen Servais 1997). Brazil and Germany share a common national business system, which is capitalism. However, the economy varies between the two countries. Germany exercises social market capitalism. In thi s case, strong social controls are imposed on business organisations (Hill 2010). On the other hand, Brazil falls under the category of developmental capitalism (Hill 2010). Here, governments play a critical role in directing economic development. Cooperation between businesses and the state are either formal or informal (Luo 2001). The similarities between the two countries’ business systems make Germany the ideal location for Fukamo’s internationalisation initiative. The technological, research and design, and innovative benefits in Germany outweigh the cost of business in the country (Jones 1999; Kogut 1988). Fukamo Automobiles Company is familiar with capitalism. The familiarity will facilitate integration into the European and the US economies (Jones 1999). The company will adapt to the global economy with ease. The formal and informal organisational structures in Germany support those in Brazil (Huei-Ting Eisingerich 2010). The influence of national culture on F ukamo as it enters Germany and the larger Europe cannot be underestimated. The culture is associated with subjective constructs, which include beliefs and values (Kim Hwang 1992). According to the institutional theory, organisational culture is affected by institutionalised variables among societies (Williams Martinez 2012). The impacts of these variations on Fukamo should be mapped out. Williams and Martinez (2012) define national culture as a system of shared values and norms. The values and norms give rise to a way of life. The concept of national culture is critical in determining the entry of an organisation into another society (Wild, Wild Han 2010). Hofstede’s cultural framework can be used to analyse the situation in Brazil and Germany. From this perspective, it appears that national culture between the two countries differs. The success of Fukamo in Germany will depend, to a large extent, on the approach adopted by the company with regards to cross-cultural awaren ess and development (Wild et al. 2010). The company needs to identify the unique competitive advantages in the German culture. Conforming to the ethics of the host country is also important (Bradley Gannon 2000). Fukamo Automobiles’ Entry Mode According to Malhotra, Ulgado and Agarwal (2003), there are several strategies that can be used to attain internationalisation. The internationalisation concept can be analysed from a multi-theoretical perspective in relation to timing and mode of entry. Various entry modalities and moderating influences play a major role in determining the success of the selected mode. Two major approaches are applied in internationalisation. They include the strategic and the sequential approaches. The interfirm networks, experiences, and personal relationships explain the various stages and processes of internationalisation. Studies have shown that sequential entry is less popular in developing countries compared to the strategic approach (Malhotra et al. 2003). The latter is highly preferred especially in technology accumulation (Balcet Enrietti n.d). Malhotra et al. (2003) advance several theories in relation to modes of entry. The theories focus on expansion and foreign direct investments. They include resource advantage, market imperfections, strategic behaviour, and transaction cost theories. Others include network and internationalisation theories, as well as the eclectic theory of international production (Rugman Verbeke 2003). The resource advantage (RA) theory is applicable to Fukamo’s expansion to Germany. Under this theory, firms compete on the premise that resources are heterogonous. In addition, the resources are immobile. The second premise is that intraindustry demand is very diverse. Consequently, firms need to diversify in size, scope, and profitability. As indicated, some resources are diverse and static. As such, some firms exhibit comparative advantage. The advantages translate to superior performa nce and competitiveness. It appears that TA theory supports the international trade theory, which highlights the issue of comparative advantage (Hofstede 1980). It is also comparable to organisational capability theory (Andersen 1993). Fukamo has access to informational, physical, legal, relational, and human resources. It should enter the German market with the aim of developing its comparative advantage, societal resources, and capabilities. The objectives constitute the main goal of leadership in technology, innovation, and market expansion. They are geared towards the establishment of sustainable competitive advantage for the company (Davis, Desai Francis 2000). According to Malhotra et al. (2003), internationalisation, together with the preferred entry mode, is associated with a number of processes. They include exporting, licensing, and joint ventures. Others are licensing, franchising, and strategic alliances (Malhotra et al. 2003). Fukamo should embrace contractual agreemen ts to address these entry modes. The approach is in line with the company’s internationalisation objectives. It is apparent that the German automotive industry is more vibrant compared to that in Brazil. In light of this, collaboration and contractual arrangements would support the company’s expansion initiative. Contractual agreements include strategic alliances, joint ventures, and collaborations with leading German automobile companies. Conclusion Internationalisation is common among many organisations aspiring to remain competitive in the global market. The proposed internationalisation strategy takes into consideration the expansion aspirations of Fukamo. Adherence to the strategy provides a firm foundation for the implementation of the plan in the company. Globalisation presents organisations with opportunities to expand their market share, presence, and dominance through internationalisation. Trade deregulation and liberalisation have opened up new markets and b locs. Strategic internationalisation can be effectively used to ‘scramble’ for the growing international markets. Strategic alliances are effective as far as access to these markets is concerned. References Andersen, O 1993, ‘On the internationalization process of the firms: a critical analysis’, Journal of International Business Studies, vol. 24 no. 2, pp. 209-231. Balcet, G Enrietti, A n.d. The impact of focused globalisation in the Italian automotive industry, econ.uniurb.it/zanfei/convegno/papers/balcet_enrietti.pdf. Bradley, F Gannon, M 2000, ‘Does the firm’s technology and marketing profile affect foreign market entry?’, Journal of International Marketing, vol. 8 no. 4, pp.12-36. Buckley, P 1993, ‘The role of management in internalization theory’, Management International Review, vol. 33 no. 3, pp. 197-207. Chetty, S Campbell-Hunt, C 2004, ‘A strategic approach to internationalization: a traditional versus a born-global approach’, Journal of International Marketing, vol. 12 no. 1, pp. 57-81. Davis, P, Desai, A Francis, J 2000, ‘Mode of international entry: an isomorphism perspective’, Journal of International Business Studies, vol. 31 no. 2, pp. 239-258. Freyssenet, M Lung, Y 2007, Car firms’ strategies and practices in Europe, freyssenet.com/files/Car%20firms%20strategies%20and%20practices%20in%20Europe.pdf. Germany Trade Invest 2013, The automotive industry in Germany, ixpos.de/IXPOS/Content/EN/Your-business-in-germany/_SharedDocs/Downloads/automotive-industry-in-germany.pdf. Hagiu, A Clipici, E 2009, The internationalization strategy in a global age, itchannel.ro/faa/375_pdfsam_ICEA_FAA_2009.pdf. Hill, C 2010, International business: competing in the global marketplace, 8th edn, McGraw Hill, New York. Hofstede, G 1980, Culture’s consequences: international differences in work-related values, SAGE Publications, London. Huei-Ting, T Eisingerich, A 2010, ‘Internationalization strategies of emerging markets firms’, California Management Review, vol. 53 no. 1, p. 114. Jones, M 1999, ‘The internationalization of small high-technology firms’, Journal of International Marketing, vol. 7 no. 4, pp. 15-41. Kim, W Hwang, P 1992, ‘Global strategy and multinationals’ entry mode choice’, Journal of International Business Studies, vol. 23 no. 1, pp. 29-53. Kogut, B 1988, ‘Joint ventures: theoretical and empirical perspectives’, Strategic Management Journal, vol. 9 no. 4, pp. 319-332. Leung, K Ang, S 2008, Culture, organizations, and institutions: an integrative review, culturalq.com/docs/Leung%20%26%20Ang%202008.pdf. Luo, Y 2001, ‘Determinants of local responsiveness: perspectives from foreign subsidiaries in an emerging market’, Journal of Management, vol. 27 no. 4, pp. 451-477. Madsen, K Servais, P 1997, ‘The internationalisation of born globals: an evolut ionary process?’, International Business Review, vol. 6 no. 6, pp. 561–583. Malhotra, N, Ulgado, F Agarwal, J 2003, ‘Internationalisation and entry modes: a multitheoretical framework and research propositions’, Journal of International Marketing, vol. 11 no. 4, pp.1-31. Pan, Y Xiaolian, L 2000, ‘Joint venture formation of very large multinational firms’, Journal of International Business Studies, vol. 31 no. 1, pp. 179-189. Pangarkar, N Yuan, L 2009, ‘Location in internationalization strategy: determinants and consequences’, Multinational Business Review, vol. 17 no. 2, pp. 45-46. Rugman, A Verbeke, A 2003, ‘Extending the theory of the multinational enterprise: internalization and strategic management perspectives’, Journal of International Business Studies, vol. 34 no. 2, pp. 125-137. Taggart, J 1998, ‘Strategy shifts in MNC subsidiaries’, Strategic Management Journal, vol. 19 no. 7, pp. 663-681. Wi ld, J, Wild, K Han, J 2010, International business: the challenges of globalization, 5th edn, Pearson Education, Inc., New Jersey, USA. Williams, C Martinez, C 2012. ‘Government effectiveness, the global financial crisis, and multinational enterprise internationalization’, Journal of International Marketing, vol. 20 no. 3, pp. 65-78. Yip, G, Biscarri, G Monti, J 2000, ‘The role of internationalization process in the performance of newly internationalizing firms’, Journal of International Marketing, vol. 8, no. 3, p. 10. Appendices Appendix I:Â  Germany Automobile Market Value:$billion, 1999-2003 Appendix II:Â  Germany Automobile Market Volume Forecast: Units Million, 2003-2008 Appendix III:Â  Germany’s Strategic Location in Europe Source: Germany Trade Invest (2013). Appendix IV:Â  World’s most Competitive Auto Location Source: Germany Trade Invest (2013). Appendix V: Internationalisation Strategy: A Reflection Personally, I learn t a lot in relation to development of an internationalisation strategy, especially its application in the global business platform. The difficult part involved developing the strategy in line with the stipulated procedures. Choosing the best entry mode also required critical considerations. In spite of the various elements related to the internationalisation process, I realised that there was lack of a ‘merged’ or comprehensive theoretical framework. The framework should have provided explanations on the internationalisation process, timing strategies, and entry modes. However, analysis of existing literature enabled me to develop a unified framework for the strategy. The internationalisation strategy developed was customised to fit into the objectives of Fukamo Automobiles Company. Analysis of the various foundational theories regarding internationalisation and entry modes helped me to develop a conceptual framework. The framework enhanced my understanding of the conce pts of internationalisation and entry modes. I used this knowledge to address the expansion objectives of Fukamo Automobiles Company. I provided the management with suggestions on how to implement the internationalisation strategy. A review of the impacts of technology, national cultures, as well as social and economic challenges provided information on international markets. An organisation venturing into the global market must be prepared to cope with these challenges. If the company fails to deal with these issues, its chances of success in international markets are minimised. The undertaking informed my knowledge in relation to internationalisation and international markets. With this knowledge, I am well prepared to work for a multinational corporation in the future. The challenge of understanding and excelling in the current global market is thrilling when exploited using internationalisation.

5 Sentences Rendered More Concise

5 Sentences Rendered More Concise 5 Sentences Rendered More Concise 5 Sentences Rendered More Concise By Mark Nichol 1. It is essential for management to have the ability to assess how good the organization is at embracing risk. This is a case of a smothered verb- a verb converted into noun form, which complicates the sentence because a new verb must be conjured to accompany the newly formed noun. In this case, the simple verb phrase â€Å"be able† is sufficient: â€Å"It is essential for management to be able to assess how good the organization is at embracing risk.† The sentence can be further condensed to â€Å"It is essential that management be able to assess how well the organization embraces risk.† and even â€Å"Management needs to be (or, better yet, â€Å"must be†) able to assess how good the organization is at embracing risk.† 2. The process should consider factors arising from a change in business context and factors currently existing but not yet known. Currently is almost invariably superfluous. In this context, as in most cases, existing is sufficient to set the sentence in the present: â€Å"The process should consider factors arising from a change in business context and factors existing but not yet known.† (Any verb in the present tense, in fact, will generally suffice.) 3. The authorities will be conducting an investigation into the incident. Often, a sentence such as this one can use the simpler of the two forms of simple future tense: â€Å"The authorities will conduct an investigation into the incident.† Better yet, however, note the smothered verb and simplify to â€Å"The authorities will investigate the incident.† 4. The success of this comprehensive work hinges on attention to details and also the outcomes of work and decisions performed in the previous strategizing phase. When also directly (or distantly) follows and, the adverb is redundant to the conjunction: â€Å"The success of this comprehensive work hinges on attention to details and the outcomes of work and decisions performed in the previous strategizing phase.† 5. The organization must decide at the planning stage whether or not these data points help provide a greater view of its risk profile. When the phrase â€Å"whether or not† appears, the second and third words are likely extraneous: â€Å"The organization must decide at the planning stage whether these data points help provide a greater view of its risk profile.† The exception is when the phrase modifies a verb, as in â€Å"Whether or not we win, we’re still going to the playoffs,† where it modifies win. In other words, when â€Å"whether or not† means â€Å"regardless of whether,† retain the full phrase. Check out our latest YouTube video: Yours sincerely vs. Yours faithfully Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Style category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:Writing Prompts 10120 Pairs of One-Word and Two-Word FormsComment, Suggestion, and Feedback

Homosexuality and Single-Sex Schools

Homosexuality and Single-Sex Schools Unfortunately, for many American students, insults and accusations are part of everyday life. All to often, students, as young as elementary school, are faced with criticism and judgment from their peers, and despite great efforts by many, there are still people in our country who are not the diverse, tolerant people wed like to surround ourselves with on a daily basis. This unfortunate truth means that some students look elsewhere to find supportive and welcoming environments for their middle and high school educations. This is where private school comes into play, as many private schools embrace the many facets of diversity that exist within students, creating vibrant communities unlike what most high school students embrace. However, there is debate among many about the role of single-sex schools when it comes to homosexuality. While some believe that schools that cater to just one gender provide a supportive place for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) students, others believe that these schools  have a hidden side effect: they promote homosexuality. Scientific Studies Surprisingly, there are few scientific studies available to provide conclusive evidence, but no limit to personal opinions. The debate topics include whether or not single-sex schools promote gender stereotypes, if homosexuality is learned or genetic and, particularly, how single-sex schools may impact students if it homosexuality is, in fact, learned. Debate.com has a page dedicated to whether or not single-sex schools promote homosexuality. The outcome of those who have contributed to date shows a majority of debaters (59 percent) feel that single-sex schools do not promote homosexuality. Many single-sex school graduates claim that their experiences, be it high school or even college, were empowering and helped them grow as individuals. Others agree, but say that they discovered their gender identity in that environment because it was the first time they were allowed to experience something different than the stereotypes they grew up with of only male-female couples being acceptable. Unfortunately, for many children stereotypes are all they see in their daily lives and become what they understand simply because they are not exposed to diverse views. Most certainly, no child wants to be intimidated or ostracized simply because they are different. These difference sometimes mean that students are subject to bullying by peers who dont understand or accept them, and these actions can be especially harsh when adults look the other way or are not present. While some claim that single-sex schools promote gender stereotypes, others adamantly disagree, stating that the single-sex school breaks down the stereotypes and better educates students on a more diverse set of viewpoints. The Value of an Open and Affirming Culture What many people dont know is that boys and girls schools often  play to the strengths of students. These open and affirming cultures can provide better support, counseling, and education, empowering students to embrace who they are more than ever. When students can walk around their school community openly without fear of discrimination or bullying, they are able to grow as individuals and achieve more success. Both boys and girls have to deal with their sexuality, understanding their feelings and inclinations mean and how to handle them. If they havent thought of it themselves, the American entertainment industry will certainly put all those gender debates and discussions right under their noses. What any good private school is able to do is to provide some serious mentoring and discussion of issues like teenage sexuality. The tightly wrapped sense of community which most of these schools have makes young people feel comfortable discussing these and other issues. Teens are under enormous stress under normal conditions. Add to the mix worries about sexuality and grades and you potentially have a recipe for extreme measures of dealing with the stress. For some, this can lead to eating disorders, cutting, or even suicide. Heed the warning signs, no matter how insignificant you think they may be, and talk to someone if there are concerns about the physical, mental, or emotional health of a child. If students feel as though they cannot confront their classmates, they should alert an adult and make sure she follows through. Supporting a peer struggling with an issue often means going against their wishes to deal with issues privately in favor of getting help from a qualified individual.   Edited by Stacy Jagodowski

Assessment of a magazine advertisement Assignment

Assessment of a magazine advertisement - Assignment Example The consistent general theme of the advertisement is to focus on the numerous changes that have been made to the latest edition of the game; the advertisement shows that the game is much better than its earlier editions. The advertisement covers all the major areas of the game and most importantly all the important things which a gamer would want to know. It is very in-depth and lures the gamers into buying the game. The leading title perfectly relates to the advertisement. â€Å"Now, many of those sound just fine. The series has long needed better menus, and some less "plastic" presentation would also be great. But tiny little updates and a roster change is what bums people out about Madden year in year out, so as a massive FIFA fan heres hoping theres some more substantial improvements yet to be announced.† (The New FIFA) The advertisement has been designed mainly for the gamers, it is also likely to intrigue all people who love sports, it brings out the important and exciting aspects of the new edition of the game. The advertisement has been really well crafted, the major changes have also been highlighted, these are some of the changes which every gamer would like to see. The advertisement does not ask the reader to do anything, its main job is to take the excitement level of the gamers to another level and lure them into buying the game. The text of the advertisement only focuses on the strengths of the game making the reader believe that it is the best football game that has ever been made. Hence, the main job of the advertisement is to force gamers into buying the new game. There are no competitive advertisements, Konami a Japanese company releases a game called Pro Evolution Soccer to compete with the FIFA series but nothing has been heard of the new game by Konami so there is no competition as of yet. This is a very fine investment, it is a great

Museum of contemporary art and Niemeyer Oscar Research Paper

Museum of contemporary art and Niemeyer Oscar - Research Paper Example The paper "Museum of contemporary art and Niemeyer Oscar" discovers Niemeyer Oscar's works. Museum of contemporary art still remains a unique piece of art. It is shaped like a concord and located on a sloppy field with view of mount sugarloaf visible from the structure. It was designed and inspired by a Brazilian designer whose name was Niemeyer Oscar. It was completed in 1996; it has a height of sixteen and a diameter of 50 meters. The design is inspired by scientific facts and evident; it explains alien facts with the mentioning of UFO by the designer. The concept was picked from the limited space provided; Oscar Niemeyer describes his choice to driven by his desire to view the sea while at the building and accommodating his works in a limited space. The building consists of three levels. It contains an underground facility with a section of water body. There is a ramp constructed on 98- meters of space which leads the public to the facility it also serves as liaison to the remaini ng floors linking the public area to the rest of the exhibition room. The ground floor consist of a bar and restaurant which has the capacity to hold more than fifty persons per seating the window spacing gives the opportunity for those in the facility to view over the bay with the key geographical features being viewed from the auditorium. The basement acts a water reservoir and a power plant. The first floor, it contains a reception area where individuals inquire and seek guidance. It also contains a lobby are and offices.

Illustrate how Shakespeare's Macbeth and John Clare's poetry use Essay

Illustrate how Shakespeare's Macbeth and John Clare's poetry use animals to present a message about human affairs such as politi - Essay Example It encompasses all religions, poetries, arts, histories, dramas, fictions and non-fictions. It enhances and reshapes the readers’ perception of life by providing them a wider spectrum through imaginary or factual narrations. It represents man’s relationship to man using images and symbols. As C. S. Lewis debates that â€Å"Literature adds to reality, it does not simply describe it. It enriches the necessary competencies that daily life requires and provides; and in this respect, it irrigates the deserts that our lives have already become"1. Thus, it is not a mere picture of reality rather it is a process of value addition in it; and represents prevailing cultures and norms of a particular society pointing out its various aspects. Literature can be regarded as a wise teacher. It presents examples, illustrations, and incidents in front of the readers to correlate their own lives and draw intellectual conclusions from them. Symbols and images are the most important tools of literature. Image represents reality whereas symbols stand for comparable aspects. The writers use them to create sharp and vivid images in the minds of the readers so that they may see their own worth in comparison to the characters and factors presented. Other than creating sharp fantasies, images serve to offer a deep penetration into the emotions and feelings of the characters in a particular situation. Thus, whenever a character in Ibsen’s plays feel emotional turmoil, he goes straight to the stove or fire. Fielding plays with the images of clothing and nakedness in ‘Joseph Andrews’ to use them as the symbols of human intentions,2 and status; Shakespeare uses them to explain seven stages of human life3 and Tennyson uses them to present facts in disguise. Animals have been a constant, continuous and effective source of symbols and images in English literature. Writers have used animals to represent and symbolise certain features of human nature. For exampl e, Shakespeare refers to snail to explain the pace of a school going child4; Jonathan Swift offered horse-like yahoos5; Alfred Tennyson has used the image of an eagle in his poem ‘The Eagle’ to explain the vigilance and crookedness with which authoritative ruler takes care of his estate6; Wordsworth has referred to Nightingale and cuckoo bird in ‘Solitary Reaper’ to explain the sweetness and thrill of maiden’s song and voice; Sylvia Plath has used bees7; Adrienne Rich referred to Tigers8, etc. For ages, this sort of imagery had been taken as aesthetics of writers. It is only now that cultural criticism is made upon this particular feature to highlight its social, political and religious aspects. This innovative field of critical study is called, ‘Ecocriticism’. Ecocriticism Ecocriticism challenges the study of literature’s relationship to the world. It is a key to the new awareness of life sciences. The main argument in natural sc iences states that the natural environment is an exclusive contributor to the human life and social values. Cultural change can be induced by the adaptation to the environment. It

Regression Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Regression Analysis - Essay Example Lastly, regression analysis will be performed on statistically significant pairs of variables and regression line equation(s) of best fit will be written. Using Excel’s Data Analysis-Sampling, random number for data for country was generated (Figure 1) and corresponding records were taken from population. Table 1 in appendix shows the sample for correlation and regression analysis. Figure 3 shows the scatterplot of the GNP per head and the number of commercial vehicles. The relationship between the GNP per head and the number of commercial vehicles appears to be moderate (correlation, r = 0.556). Table 2 shows the correlation matrix for variables GNP per head, Cars per head and number of Commercial vehicles. The correlation for ‘the GNP per head and the cars per head’ and ‘the GNP per head and the number of commercial vehicles’ is significant at level of significance, ÃŽ ± = .01. Since, the correlation for GNP per head with the cars per head and the number of commercial vehicles is significant; therefore, there is strong possibility that GNP per head can be used to predict the cars per head and the number of commercial vehicles in any country. Table 3 shows the regression analysis output for the GNP per head and the cars per head using Excel. The higher value of F statistic suggests that regression is significant. GNP per head explains about 80% of variation in the cars per head. GNP per head (US $) significantly predict the cars per head,  ÃŽ ² = 0.00005,  t(28) = 10.54,  p   The slope of the regression equation suggest that each US $ increase in GNP per head adds an average of 0.00005 cars per head. The intercept is not meaningful as zero GNP per head implies negative value for the cars per head that is not possible. The regression equation can be used for predicting the cars per head of any developing

A Cadre of New Managers and its Control Case Study

A Cadre of New Managers and its Control - Case Study Example They also use two different crafts like the Airbus A320, which carries around 150 passengers and the Embraer E190 that carries 100 passengers. They also use E190 crafts for short-distance flights and the A320 for long distances. This strategy helps them to save on fuel as well as make maximum profit at the same time. Concurrently, they guarantee excellent customer service and travel. The financial performance of the company has been affected by various factors such as the increase of oil price, reduced number of passengers using flights and poor weather conditions among others. The profits have been dropping since 2003. Even though JetBlue made losses in the year 2005 and 2006, it made profits of $18 million (Rovenpor, N.D.). The financial reports of the company have been positive and increasing steadily unlike in some of their competitors who have gone into bankruptcy or merged with other companies as a survival tactic (Weil, 2007). There are many factors affecting the airline industry today and most of them are linked to the International Economy. These factors include oil prices, flight demands by passengers, the luggage carried, types and state of crafts and the routes they ply, and lastly, the nature of airports and geography of their countries or cities of destination (Lange,  2010).  

Regression Analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Regression Analysis - Essay Example Lastly, regression analysis will be performed on statistically significant pairs of variables and regression line equation(s) of best fit will be written. Using Excel’s Data Analysis-Sampling, random number for data for country was generated (Figure 1) and corresponding records were taken from population. Table 1 in appendix shows the sample for correlation and regression analysis. Figure 3 shows the scatterplot of the GNP per head and the number of commercial vehicles. The relationship between the GNP per head and the number of commercial vehicles appears to be moderate (correlation, r = 0.556). Table 2 shows the correlation matrix for variables GNP per head, Cars per head and number of Commercial vehicles. The correlation for ‘the GNP per head and the cars per head’ and ‘the GNP per head and the number of commercial vehicles’ is significant at level of significance, ÃŽ ± = .01. Since, the correlation for GNP per head with the cars per head and the number of commercial vehicles is significant; therefore, there is strong possibility that GNP per head can be used to predict the cars per head and the number of commercial vehicles in any country. Table 3 shows the regression analysis output for the GNP per head and the cars per head using Excel. The higher value of F statistic suggests that regression is significant. GNP per head explains about 80% of variation in the cars per head. GNP per head (US $) significantly predict the cars per head,  ÃŽ ² = 0.00005,  t(28) = 10.54,  p   The slope of the regression equation suggest that each US $ increase in GNP per head adds an average of 0.00005 cars per head. The intercept is not meaningful as zero GNP per head implies negative value for the cars per head that is not possible. The regression equation can be used for predicting the cars per head of any developing

WA3 Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

WA3 - Assignment Example Halmann and Steinberg (1) explain that Earth has blanket like atmospheres that prevent heat from the solar radiation directed from the sun to the earth. The authors point out that the atmosphere maintains the temperature of the earth at 15 degrees Celsius. However, without atmosphere, the temperatures would have been lower, approximately -19 degrees Celsius. This fact can be explained clearly from the lower surface temperatures of the moon. The moon has no atmosphere making it inhabitable, unlike the earth. The earth surface is warm due to blanket like atmosphere; the atmosphere is created by gases in the atmosphere of the earth. The gases are referred to as greenhouse gases because their capability to trap heat. Some of the gases behind the earth’s atmosphere are carbon dioxide and water vapor. Other greenhouse gases include nitrous oxide and methane (Greenhouse Effect). Some of the greenhouse gases mentioned above are carbon dioxide and water vapor. Carbon dioxide CO2 as name suggest has a carbon atom and two-oxygen atoms. Two atoms of oxygen are bonded to CO2. As a molecule, all the three atoms are bonded making it easy to absorb energy from the sun inform of infrared radiation. The infrared radiation is absorbed by the molecule and so the molecule vibrates. Vibrating molecule loses the previously absorbed radiation easily which in turn another molecule absorbs it. This goes in the cycle and in the end the infrared radiation is not lost, therefore, the surface of the earth is kept warm. Nitrous oxide, methane and water vapor does the same as carbon dioxide. Their molecules absorb and lose heat because they are loosely bounded to compound atoms (Greenhouse Effect). Greenhouse gases previously in 19th century were seen as natural functioning gases with positive effects. However, in mid 20th-century people became more concern with greenhouse gases due change of climate and increasing temperatures. Some greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide,

Students working while in college Essay Example for Free

Students working while in college Essay Back in 70’s and 80’s, going to college and getting a degree did not seem much of a necessary thing to do. Students, who used to have enough time, enough money or much interest in doing so, used to go to college. Other students, by the end of their high school used to start looking for jobs good enough to support them and any dependents, if they had, financially. Even till not very long ago, going to college was more of a privilege, not a necessity. However, with growing competition all around the world, and increasing globalization and the world becoming a global village with multicultural workforces and amalgamated employee bases, going to college is becoming more and more of a necessity with every passing day. In fact, it has already become inevitable for most of the students in most parts of the world to have a good college degree in addition to proper experience and a set of competitive skills and abilities, in order to get a good, reputable job that earns a good sum of money for one’s living respectably. This fact, created great financial problems for the not-so-rich students, who could not afford the college education required to get them a good job. This might even have led to disparity among the population since the poor students who could not afford good college education would not have got good jobs either and would always have remained poor. This would have gone on and on. Eventually, these students either needed financial aid or any other means to generate money to pay the college fee and earn a degree. Many solutions were figured out. One way out are financial aids and scholarships. Another way to finance college education is to work while one studies at college earning the money for tuition along side Financial Aid and Scholarships One alternative to working while studying at college is to avail financial aids and scholarships. Financial aids are special loans provided to students who cannot afford college education to enable them to complete their studies and then pay the loan back slowly and gradually either during the course of their studies or later on when they have finished their educational life and start working. As far as scholarships are concerned, they are the special kind of the financial aid which does not need to be paid back. These scholarships can be provided under special programs by the government, NGO’s, any other private body or even the college/university itself. They might either be fully paid or partially paid (by a fixed percent). The Scholarships can either be merit based (when a student is exceptionally good at studies, that his education expenses are exempted or paid; in this case, the student should not be necessarily needy) or need based (when the student is good enough but cannot finance his education so his education fee needs to be exempted or paid). (Petersons, 2003) However, this is not always the case and is not applicable practically everywhere for many a reason. As far as financial aids are concerned, the problem with them is that they have to be paid back sooner or later, one way or the other. So, if other options are available, why take them in the first place? And the scholarships are obviously in a limited number. More over, not everyone can get a scholarship. For example, a student might be needy and interested in studying at college at the same time, but he might not be a good student after all, and thus, the scholarship providing bodies would not want to risk their money after someone who might not even graduate. (Petersons, 2003). More over, these scholarships might not cover the accommodation and other expenses of the students who might even be from other countries for sake of education. These and related expenses need to be paid for by the student one way or the other. These and many other financial problems of the students can be solved by working while studying at the college. This can help the student earn enough money to pay for the college tuition fee as well as other expenses like accommodation, everyday expenses like transportation and all. (Orszag, Whitemore, 2001) Working While in College. During the last two decades, the number of students working (part time or full time) while going to college has increased at an incredibly fast rate. The prime reason for such a behavior, as mentioned above is the increasing demand of college degrees. In addition to this, awareness among the students and increased inclination towards studies has played a major role as well. Also, with inflation increasing at a dramatic rate all around the world, most parent who could afford higher education for their children do not appear to do so any more and thus they expect their children to finance their education, fully or partly, by themselves. More over, not only the working students’ ratio has increased, but the number of students working full time during their full time student life has increased drastically as well. Working students can be roughly categorized as the full time students who are working (full time or part time) to finance their living and education, that is the students who see themselves first as students and then as employees, and the students who work full time and are studying side by side with their work as part time students, that is the students who see themselves first as employees and then as students.

Functionalism and Marxism: Education and Employment

Functionalism and Marxism: Education and Employment Sociologists study human society. Their subject matter includes human behaviour in various social contexts, social interaction, social institutions and organisation, social change and development (Haralmbos, Van Krieken, Smith Holborn 1999). For this reason, unemployment is an issue which sociologists delve. Unemployment has far reaching affects in all areas of society. Stratification in the areas of age, race, class, gender, ethnicity, sex and disability is rife amongst the employed and unemployed alike, unemployment creates further segregation amongst these already stratified people. This essay will look at unemployment from the functional and conflict theory perspective, as well how four main institutions (family, education, government and health) are affected by unemployment. It will also look at Karl Marx and Emile Durkheim and their contribution to sociology and the theory of functionalism and conflict. Unemployment affects almost everyone to some degree during their lives, th e need to understand how we can deal with the issue is becoming critically important to society as a whole. Functionalist Theory Function is an unclear term, often used by orthodox sociologists to define the logical and social place of roles, institutions and structures in terms of the production and reproductionof a society as a social system as in the idea that the function of the family is to socialise new members of society (Bessant Watts, 1999). Functionalists believe everything serves a specific function in our society and these functions need to be understood. Everyone has a role to fill in this functional society, in other words we need to have stratification so as everyone has a purpose. Functionalists are very boundaried and thin within the square. For this theory to really work, there needs to be a consensus amongst the individuals that make up society, they need to believe everything is in the best interest of this so called utopia. There is obviously no conflict of interest. This does not seem possible in this modern age, so can functionalism still be considered a plausible theory. It does of course have its merits, yes everything does have its function, but these functions are up for a degree of interpretation and change. Unfortunately functionalism does not explain change except in a gradual evolutionary way. Conflict Theory Conflict theory is a body of theories including marxism, which claims that all social orders are fractured by social conflict, typically between classes and other groups, over control of valued resources including wealth, power and property (Bessant Watts, 1999). Conflict theorists believe that conflict is the basis of social order and that a minority of people with power are able to impose their will over others. There is a conflict of interest, people have different goals and purpose. They will use whatever means to gain this, even to the detriment of others in their society. Those with more power and money have the ability to gain a higher level of services by the main institutions in our society (such as education and health), thus creating a greater level of stratification in society. This in turn creates more conflict as those who cannot get the services they need turn to deviant or dependant methods to gain the same baisc needs. Unfortunately it is a vicious circle which cont inues to breed contempt from both sides of the fence in our society. Durkheim Durkheim (1858-1917) was one of the original founding fathers of positivist sociology (functional theory), his concern was how to preserve society. The basis for social order (how society hung together and worked over time) was not economic but moral for Durkheim, expressed in the type of solidarity that a society exhibited (Willis,1999). Durkheim was particularly concerned to distinguish social facts, which he sometimes described as states of the collective mind, from the forms these states assumed when manifested through private individual minds. This distinction is most obvious in cases of customs, moral and legal rights and religious beliefs etc. Marx For Karl Marx (1818-1883), the transformation had to be understood primarily as a change in the economic structure of societies; a change in the means by which economic production was organised from a system called feudalism to one called capitalism (Willis 1999). Marx was a man looking to understand society, he followed many different paths and was alienated many times for his ideas. His theories on value and surplus value, accumulation, exploitation, pauperization, crisis and appropriation, class struggle and revolution made no immediate impact on the workers movement, until after his death in 1883 (Rius 1999). Unemployment We are entering a new phase in world history one in which fewer and fewer and fewer workers will be needed to produce the goods and services for the global populationFor the whole of the modern era, peoples worth has been measured by the market value of their labournow new ways of defining human worth and social relationships will need to be explored (Rifkin 1996). Life has changed, globalization and feminism have had a huge impact on the work environment around the world. Technology has also made many jobs redundant. Unemployment has become an issue allaround the globe, explanations of this phenomenom are plenty. How does unemployment serve a purpose, or is it just another chance for the powerful to stamp on those with less power? The government views the unemployment situation as an idividual problem. It is due to the lack of training of the individual, they now make people have training to continue to get unemployment benefits. This is a great idea as far as keeping the individua l busy and increasing the self-esteem and knowledge, but what then? We are now creating alot of qualified people for positions which dont exist. We need to look at why there are not enough positions to employ these individuals. If it is not lack of skills, then what is it? Could it be that they government or us as a society are not doing enough to promotebusiness in Australia, instead sending our work load overseas for cheaper labour. We need to look at why the positions are non existant rather than assuming it is the individuals fault. Unemployment affects our society in so many ways. The four main institutions I am looking at are family, education, health and government. Firstly the family, unemployment places added financial and mental strain on the family. The lack of income can cause many families to have to live without the basic necessities which we take for granted, they then need to turn to welfare agencies in order to survive. Lack of income also means children often have to miss out on school activities and sports programs as the family budget can no longer stretch the distance. This monetary strain can cause breakdown in both the individual and family. This can turn in domestic violence, alcoholism, gambling, family dysfunction and even suicide. Unemployment has such wide ranging affects on family life. Alcoholism, smoking, the illegal use of drugs and crime are associated with unemployment (Makkai 1994).This can then be made even more significant when their is further stratification caused by age, disability, ethnicity, gender, sex, class and race. For example, if your race was one that expected the men to work and the wife to stay at home and raise the children. When you become unemployed, you may lose your standing as both a husband and member of your community, as you can no longer provide appropriately for your family. Each of these aspects further increases the impact of unemployment. Secondly, there is education. Public versus private is already a hotly argued issue, do children get a better education from private or public education. This is not an issue for Australians who cannot afford the private education system. It is still a struggle though to pay for books, uniforms, excursions, camps and other school activities. Add in unemployment and the issue becomes even harder. If you currently have your children in private education and become unemployed, you may not be able to meet the financial demands. Taking your child out of their school and changing them to the public education system can then be very traumatic for everyone involved. Once again add any of the other stratification issues mentioned before and the situation can become very volatile. You may have certain reasons for attending special schools, if then cannot afford to maintain this situation what happens to your child. For example, a special school for your disabled child, mainstream public school may not be able to handle your childs disability. Your child is then left in a situation which is detrimental to their well being. Thirdly, government, unemployment is such a hot issue with voters that the government must be seen to be doing as much as they can to help the situation. They are always making promises to decrease the unemployment rate, unfortunately the unmployment rate does not really give an accurate picture of how many people are out of work. It is only those who are registered as looking for work. The government provides welfare and training for unemployed but they do not seem to see the bigger picture. The government also creates stratification by having different payments and services for different races, rather than basing services provided on an individual needs basis. For example, Austudy and Abstudy. Finally, health system, the health system is hit hard by unemployment especially with the drop in bulk billing. Many unemployed people cannot afford to go to a non-bulk billing doctor so instead go into their local emergency department. This is causing congestion in the emergency department. There is also an increase of illness (mental and physical) and suicide amongst the unemployed. This is creating a huge draw on our medicare and health system. Those on low incomes or unemployed cannot afford to have private health insurance, so are therefore no getting all the help they need. We are creating a system where people are leaving illnesses and injuries until they are quite serious due to the fact that they cannot afford to see a specialist. We will now look at what the functionalists and the conflict theorists say about it. Unemployment (Functionalism) Functionalists believe unemployment serves a purpose in society. We need unemployment in our society, it plays its own part. For all those who are or have been unemployed, it is hard to see how it can possibly be good for society, part of the master plan. Unemployment creates so much misery and further increases the problem of stratification. Those in the underprivileged class have to rely on government handouts, which only creates further poverty as those people struggle to make ends meet. This in turn affects the family structure by adding extra money pressures. This is the point though, unemployed people create work for centrelink staff, welfare agencies, counsellors and keep cheap discount stores in work. It also maintains that there will always be someone to take the menial jobs that others dont want. Those lower classed people will do the jobs others wont. We need the divisions to make sure there are people to cover all types of places in society. Unemployment (Conflict Theory) Conflict theorists see unemployment as more evidence of those in a powerful or priviledged position taking advantage of others. Power is the emphasis is an employment situation, while employed you have a certain amount of power, both over your work environment and your own life. Once unemployed you become powerless, reliant on the government to provide you an income. Once in this position, an individual is likely to take a job which is below their abilities and for less pay, just so as to be earning an income. The difference in class and standing continues to increase. Those with money, do not need to stoop to this type of position, they can instead wait until an appropriate job comes up or they can indulge in further education to improve their position even more. Conclusion Unemployment plays are major part in our society, its affects are wide reaching. The implication that unemployment is an individual problem due to lack of skills, only seeks to increase the problem. The idea that who we are is depicted by what we do as a job, creates further stratification of our society. Long-term unemployment has been shown to be one of the most important contributors to domestic violence and other forms of crime, as well as psychological illness and suicide (Baker 1993). Whether we look at unemployment from a functional or conflict perspective, there is no right or wrong answer. We need to look at it from both perspectives to get a better idea of the situation, and then to look at possible ways of dealing with the issue. There will always be unemployment due to changes in the environment, whether they are biological or technological. For this reason further insights into how society deals with unemployment is necessary. Stratification is a principal aspect of the evolution of a societys social identity, when this is compounded with unemployment, alienation and dysfunction becomes a consequence.

Alcohol Policy Done Wrong :: Argumentative persuasive Alcohol Policy Essays

Alcohol Policy Done Wrong When I was elected Interfraternity Council Treasurer in December of 1997 I knew I was in for a long semester, but I never knew what might evolve. I was elected in the wake of alcohol problems across the country. The only alcohol problem I knew of that had happened at the University of Arkansas involved a fraternity on bid day (the day when new freshman receive their invitation to a fraternity house). It involved two students that drank so much alcohol that they had to be rushed to the hospital. Both students were released from the hospital and the fraternity was placed on alcohol probation. I happened to be a newcomer to that fraternity as well and all alcohol probation meant to the fraternity was that they had to be a little more careful about where they drank alcohol in the house. The University of Arkansas has been very lenient in the past about enforcing the alcohol policy. The University’s policy is dated February 22, 1974. The policy states, â€Å"Possession and use of intoxicants in public areas of University facilities (including organized houses) and at official University functions held on campus is prohibited. Persons of legal age as prescribed by state law regarding alcoholic beverages may possess and consume these beverages in the privacy of assigned student rooms. Irresponsible behavior while under the influence of intoxicants is not condoned and may be subject to review and/or action by the appropriate judicial body.† There has been a lot of criticisms to the alcohol policy. First, the fact that it was written in 1974 attracts a plethora of criticisms. I feel that many things have changed since the 70’s and the alcohol policy should also change. Another thing that attracts criticism is the way it has been forced. I hav e seen pictures in the University of Arkansas yearbook from 1970 that show members of fraternities sitting on the roofs of their houses drinking beer out of the can, which is a direct violation of the alcohol policy. I have also heard rumors that in the 80’s kegs were clearly present throughout the fraternity houses. The next thing I would like to mention is the sudden change in enforcement of this alcohol policy. I have been on this campus for three years and I have seen an abrupt change in the way administrators enforce the alcohol policy.

Madame Bovary - Emma, Christianity, and Adultery Essay -- Madame Bovar

Emma, Christianity, and Adultery In Madame Bovary, Emma is depicted as a slave to her desires, namely, to the desire for what she calls love. The origin of these desires appears to stem from her childhood habit of reading romantic novels while she lived in the convent. Because of her idealized picture of what romantic love is supposed to be, she searched desperately for this in real life, but to no avail. It appears that Emma’s suffering is due to her disillusion with reality and her own naivete about the nature of relationships with other people. However, time after time, Emma looks into the face of morality in the respect of her religion. After she does so, rather than reconcile with her faith and repent her adulterous sins, Emma proceeds to commit them again, with a new and refreshed energy. In one of my previous papers I analyzed the role Christianity assigned to love and concluded that Christianity causes people to be enslaved by their Love for God. Although Emma never experienced the same type of Love f or God that I discussed, her Christian upbringings played a significant role in shaping the way she looked upon life. Specifically, Christianity contributed a great deal to Emma Bovary’s choice to commit adultery in her search for Love. The teachings of Christianity encourage the very thing Emma did throughout her entire lifetime—expect better things to come. Worldly things are not to be coveted because grander rewards will come in Heaven. Christians are taught to dream of a better future, eternal life, peace, and happiness. Moreover, Christianity makes its followers live in expectation of something better, and actions are motivated by expectations of these eternal rewards. Christians also martyr those who sacrifice and suffer since the sacrifice of Christ is a symbol of God’s Love. By acting in the imitation of Christ, the rewards and expectations will thus be fulfilled in Heaven. Therefore, in Christianity, Love is used to achieve transcendence. It is a passion that consumes, controls, and allows one to be content with unhappiness and suffering. Emma wanted happiness and an end to suffering just like other Christians, and she knew that the solution lie in Love. In the convent, she was inspired by stories from the old maid who slipped her romance novels. In the holy atmosphere of the convent, these stories of â€Å"love, lovers, swee... ...ll is to drag out, as I do, a useless existence. If our pains could be of use to some one, we should find consolation in the thought of sacrifice† (168). Because she felt this alienation from God, she struggled to practice Christianity. She knew what she desired, but she did not know how to attain it. Emma did not know how to be a virtuous woman and happy woman at the same time. The break between worldly love and heavenly love lead her astray and towards adultery, and the lack of guidance from the Church caused her to become confused. Finding worldly love has become more and more important today, and many people will travel the same roads as Emma in pursuit of the celestial lover, trying to make their sufferings and sacrifices of use to some one. Like Emma, they are motivated by the ideas that they deserve better and that happiness is found in Love. These ideals caused Emma to commit adultery and tragically end her life; she represents the modern person trapped between the ideals of the Christian tradition and modern times. Because of this conflict of interest, the modern man, as demonstrated by Emma Bovary, will suffer from insatiable and conflicting desires.

Gangs in Prison

Gangs in Prison The Aryan Brotherhood The Aryan Brotherhood originates in the CDC (California Department of Corrections) and BOP (Federal Bureau of Prisons). The Aryan Brotherhood was founded in San Quentin, California in the 1960s. The founders were members of other gangs from the 1950s called, â€Å"Bluebirds†, â€Å"Diamond Tooth Gang†, and the â€Å"Nazi Gang†. Barry Mills and Tyler Davis are now the leaders of the Aryan Brotherhood.Their basic beliefs and mission is they believe in the betterment and preservation of the white race, in separatism, that no foreigner should rule over the white race, that all who are against or oppress the white race are sworn enemies, in the rights of the white race, in the right to teach white children of the Aryan cultures and heritage, believe only in the support of the white race, and that it is important to guide the upbringing of white children, as they are the heirs to the future. The Aryan Brotherhood is known to be str ongest in the southwest and pacific regions.They are weakest in northeastern regions, where the African-American population is more dominant. It has been stated that the Aryan Brotherhood is growing. As of now, there are approximately 500 members. The criminal activities that they are involved in are murder, kidnapping, racketeering, and drug distribution. At least one example of how dangerous it is in prison for these members is the ABT leader Kelly Ray Ellery and other members ordered subordinates to kill a prospective member and make it â€Å"messy as possible† to send a message to gang members to cooperate with law enforcement.They also ordered to return the man’s severed finger as a trophy. The Black Guerilla Family The Black Guerilla family originated from San Quentin Prison in 1966. The founders of this gang are George Jackson and W. L. Nolen. Their basic beliefs and mission is to eradicate racism, maintain dignity in prison and overthrow the United States Gover nment. They are strongest in San Quentin, CA and Baltimore, Maryland. They are weakest in the southwestern and Pacific regions. Their ranks are growing, they have 50,000 members today. The criminal activities they are involved in while in prison are drug trafficking, extortion, and violent crimes.One example of how dangerous it can be in prison is the supreme commander, â€Å"Doc† Holiday, proved he still had what it takes to be in the Black Guerilla Family by stabbing a random fellow prisoner to death. The Folk Nation The Folk Nation originated from the Illinois Department of Corrections. I would also like to note that The Folk Nation is not a gang- they are alliances which gangs are aligned. Larry Hoover, the chairman of the Gangster Disciples Nation, created the idea of alliance and persuaded black, white, and Latino gangs from Chicago to join. He did all of this in November 11, 1978.Under their basic beliefs and missions, they maintain a strict code of solidarity, with me mbers promising to hold â€Å"Folk before family† and claiming they will â€Å"not let my brother fall to a knee†. They are strongest in the Midwest and southwest; there is no record of where they could possibly be the weakest, because they are all over the United States. They are continuously recruiting members in the streets and in prisons, therefore stating that they are very dominant and only getting stronger. The criminal activities they are commonly involved in are racketeering, murder, robbery, assault, and illegal use of firearms.The Mexican Mafia The Mexican Mafia originated in 1957 at Deuel Vocational Institution in Tracy, California. Luis â€Å"Huero Buff† Flores from the Hawaiian Gardens gang was the founder of The Mexican Mafia. Their basic beliefs were to control the prison system. They are strongest in northern and southern California, but they are in a decline right now. The most obvious of criminal activities of The Mexican Mafia are extortion ( RICO), narcotics distribution, and murder. An example of the danger in the prison system from the Mexican Mafia is in the 1960’s, the Mexican Mafia conducted hits in San Quentin and DVI.Doroteo â€Å"Sleepy† Betancourt and Frank â€Å"moose† Bazure murdered a correctional officer; just to prove their existence. MS13 The MS13 gang originated in Los Angeles in the 1960’s and the 1980’s. They didn’t actually have just one founder; it was a group of young Salvadorans that broke off from other Hispanic gangs. Their basic beliefs are self-protection and protection of their families. They are strongest in Alaska, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Nevada, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, Rhode Island, Texas, and Utah; they are also strong in Canada, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, and El Salvador.They are weakest in the East coast. They are neither growing or in decline, because they no longer exist; they are known now as the Surenos. Their criminal activities consists of drug smuggling, gun running, people smuggling, hits for hire, theft, drug sales, and arson. An example to illustrate how dangerous they are is in a recent Texas incident, a member of MS13(Surenos) participated in a gang rape of a 24-year-old woman and then he kicked her in the neck so hard that he broke it and killed her instantly.In conclusion, I noticed that they all had similarities in criminal activity. All of their beliefs were very different except for one thing, they all focused more on their own races of people. I also noticed that all but the Mexican Mafia are growing in population. I also realized that the strongest and most dangerous gang in the world is MS13 aka Surenos. Although the other prison gangs are growing in threat level and population; MS13 aka Surenos is the largest organized crime entity in the world.Therefore, in conclusion, these prison gangs actually have a lot more in common than what they think th ey do. The only thing that is really separating them is their racial beliefs. References: History of the Mexican Mafia prison gang; July 25th, 2007; Valdemar, Richard; www. policemag. com Ten members of Bronx drug trafficking crew charged; Jan. 9th, 2013; U. S. Attorney’s office; www. fbi. gov The Aryan Brotherhood; Montaldo, Charles; Jan. 2013; www. crime. about. com Ebook: Corrections Today; Chapter 8 The Prison Experience(males)

Miley Cyrus: A Teenage Inspiration

People screaming at the top of their lungs for the rock band that they idolize; an individual buying all the books and imitating the writing style of his favorite author; a young girl imitating the clothes of her fashion idol; the aforementioned instances are familiar examples of people who are practicing the idea of fandom wherein they are becoming huge fans of famous personalities or things. The idea of becoming a fan is perceived by people in different ways.There are individuals who look at the idea of being a fan as simply liking something or someone in a degree that is not common to other people. On the other hand, there are also those people who negatively look at fans, as individuals who are going crazy or psychotic for something or someone to the point that they are becoming obsessed. There are even allegations that fans eventually become stalkers, who do untoward decisions and actions. The opposing perspective of the term â€Å"fan† entails a more in-depth study about the topic.To be able to fully understand the meaning of being a fan, it is necessary that it is given due attention and importance. In doing so, I conducted an interview with three individuals, who have different backgrounds but is idolizing the same pop star.The pop star that I focus on is Miley Cyrus. My main motivation for looking for individuals who idolizes Miley Cyrus is due to the popularity and influence of this personality. In 2008, Miley Cyrus is included in Time Magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world.Due to this, I want to find out the reasons why people idolize her and its corresponding effects to their life. Moreover, by conducting the interview with three individuals who idolize Miley Cyrus, I learn more about the idea of being a fan. Summary of Cavicchi’s Book and Argument Based on the book of Cavicchi (1998) the term â€Å"fan† is used as both descriptive and prescriptive when it comes to describing individuals that are regarded as fans. Cavicchi even states that,On the whole, it [the term â€Å"fan†] is used both descriptively and prescriptively to refer to diverse individuals and groups, including fanatics, spectators, groupies, enthusiasts, celebrity stalkers, collectors, consumers, members of subcultures, and entire audiences, and, depending on the context, to refer to complex relationships involving affinity, enthusiasm, identification, desire, obsession, possession, neurosis, hysteria, consumerism, political resistance, or a combination (39). The interest of Cavicchi with the concept of â€Å"fan† is rooted from the fact that Cavicchi himself is also a self-proclaimed fan.The book that he wrote entitled Tramps like us gives an in-depth research and analysis of being a fan, especially when it comes to its corresponding effects to the individual who is a fan of something or someone. Cavicchi uses Bruce Springsteen as an example for his central argument that fandom is actually a useful and mea ningful behavior, which allows individuals to form their identities, establish communities, and make sense out of their lives and the society as a whole. Cavicchi (1998) points out that the contribution of Bruce Springsteen in the world exemplifies the advantageous effects of fandom.In the past, many critics have noted that the songs of Bruce Springsteen is unique from other singers in a sense that it actually exist in world of its own with its respective characters, settings, words, and images. The world that Springsteen creates is actually very relevant to other people wherein individuals who only have little knowledge or none at all about Springsteen can still relate with his music. Springsteen emphasizes the world of highways and factories, loners and underdogs, and many others. As such, the themes of the songs of Springsteen actually embody the ideals and struggles of most ordinary Americans.Being the case, Springsteen was able to substantially influence the American pop cultur e and also different societal debates. Springsteen has the ability to not only speak for his fans but actually to them with directness and sincerity, which actually touches the lives of his followers.Cavicchi uses three years of ethnographic research and his own experiences and impressions as a fan in writing his book. He provides an interdisciplinary study of the ways by which ordinary individuals who have special and sustained attachments to their idols actually were able to change and affect their lives because of fandom.Furthermore, it challenges the negative perception about the term â€Å"fan†, specifically the stereotypes of fans as being obsessive, delusional, and to the point of having mental problems. Cavicchi strongly emphasizes that fandom is a normal socio-cultural activity that aids in shaping the identity of individuals. Object of Fandom Destiny Hope Cyrus also popularly known as Miley Cyrus is an American pop singer, songwriter, and actress. Her rose to fame s tarted when she stars in the Disney Channel as Hannah Montana.After the success of her television series, she released a soundtrack CD of the songs that she sang in the Hannah Montana Show. The popularity of the soundtrack CD in the American market, especially for teenagers enables her to create a solo music career with her debut album, Meet Miley Cyrus. In her first album, Miley Cyrus was able to create her first top single entitled â€Å"See You Again†. The increasing popularity of Miley Cyrus paved the way for her to launch her second album called Breakout. Both the albums of Miley Cyrus top number 1 on the Billboard 200.In addition, the single of Miley Cyrus entitled â€Å"Party in the U. S. A. † was recognized as the highest charting and fastest selling single that reach number 2 in the Billboard Hot 100. The influence of Miley Cyrus reaches different nations, which is proven by the record-breaking sales of her albums that reach more than 15 million records. Miley Cyrus also shines in the field of acting. Miley Cyrus first extended play was The Time of Our Lives. Miley Cyrus also performed in the concert/film Hannah Montana and Miley Cyrus: Best of Both Worlds Concert.In relation to this, Miley Cyrus also starred in Bolt wherein she recorded the soundtrack for the movie, which enables her to be nominated in the Golden Globe Awards. The hit show Hannah Montana was later produced in the film with Miley Cyrus as the lead star of the movie. Moreover, the prominence of Miley Cyrus in the society is recognized by Time magazine when she is included in the â€Å"100 Most Influential People in the World and she also ranked 35 on the â€Å"Celebrity 100† list of Forbes magazine for earning $25 million in 2008.Interviewee # 1The first interviewee is Zoe, a 16 years old girl that describes herself as an avid fan of Miley Cyrus. Zoe is a Caucasian American, who is currently studying in a public school. The interview was conducted through phone wh erein the queries in the questionnaires were asked and were substantially answered by the respondent.The main interest of Zoe mostly deals with normal young adult hobbies like shopping and hanging out friends. In addition, Zoe also stated that she is very much interested in music, especially from modern pop artist. As previously mentioned, Zoe is a self-proclaimed Miley Cyrus fan.She said that she first get acquainted with the pop star through her series in the Disney Channel, Hannah Montana. Zoe immediately likes the character of Miley in the series and she also took notice of her exceptional singing abilities. Zoe said â€Å"Miley has an exceptional and unique singing voice that can really attract its listeners, once I heard her voice she already mesmerized me. †Zoe opted to have the complete albums of Miley Cyrus instead of just downloading it from the Internet, which she said is a way for her to actually give worth to the singing ability of her idol buy adding to her CD s ales.In addition to this, Zoe is also a fan of Miley Cyrus in Facebook and she also follows her in Tweeter. The influence of Miley Cyrus on Zoe affects her fashion sense because Zoe admitted she is actually imitating the fashion sense of Miley. â€Å"I always look carefully at the outfits that she wear, as I really admire her unique fashion sense†, stated Zoe. Zoe explains in the interview that she has not really done anything outrageous as a fan of Miley, the only thing that she did is make a scrapbook of her idol, which other people finds weird.Moreover, Zoe strongly believes that Miley Cyrus exemplifies the normal life of a teenager that has to go through the awkward stage of adolescence, which Zoe can relate to. Zoe expressed in the interview that Miley Cyrus affected her life by making her believe in her dreams and do more things in her life, as Zoe said, â€Å"I can have the best of both worlds just like Miley†.Interviewee # 2The second interviewee is Samantha, a 13-years old teenage girl who is a die-hard fan of Miley Cyrus. She is an African-American that is studying in a public school.Samantha’s interests usually involve watching television, playing computer games, and the occasional going out with her friends. Samantha exclaimed â€Å"I love Miley Cyrus so much! † when asked in the interview on who is her idol. She explains in the interview that she was introduced to the pop star sensation while watching Hannah Montana because her parents only allow her to watch limited channels and this include the Disney Channel. At first, she likes the comic banter between Miley Cyrus and her dad because Samantha can actually relate to it because she said that she has the same relationship with her father.Later on, Samantha is really entertained by the singing capabilities of Miley Cyrus. In relation to this, Samantha can actually relate to the lyrics of Miley Cyrus’ songs that talks about related issues about being a teenager. S amantha keeps a collection of different Miley Cyrus memorabilia like bags, school supplies, and others. She even said that â€Å"almost all my things are Miley Cyrus inspired†. In addition, Samantha also applauds the acting capability of Miley Cyrus, especially when it comes to comedy that is why she even created her own fan page for Miley.Samantha informed me in the interview that she has not done any outrageous thing as a fan of Miley Cyrus because she believes that becoming a fan does not necessarily mean doing something â€Å"stupid†. Moreover, Samantha points out that Miley Cyrus is an inspiration to her and also to her friends because she represents teenager everywhere who are following their dreams despite the set-backs of the teenage life.Interviewee # 3The last interviewee is an 18 years old Asia who is actually on her way of going to college.She requested that I do not state her name in the paper, as she is afraid that someone might know that she is a fan of Miley Cyrus. The hesitation of this girl in admitting that she is a fan of Miley Cyrus comes from the fact that most of her peers perceived Miley Cyrus as a loser. As a result, this girl does not have any Miley Cyrus memorabilia and she does not join any networking site about Miley Cyrus. The main reason of this girl for idolizing Miley Cyrus is because she can relate with the life of the pop star.She states that â€Å"Miley Cyrus is just a typical teenager who commits mistakes like her photo scandal and other boyfriend troubles . . . she is being real to herself and to her public. † The girl idolizes Miley Cyrus because of her courage to be true to herself and to others even if she is already popular. In relation to this, she also thinks that Miley Cyrus is a strong individual that can properly handle all the criticisms that come her way. Being the case, Miley Cyrus influences this girl to also be true to herself and never give up. AnalysisBased on the answers of the three i nterviewees it is quite observable that most of Miley Cyrus fans are teenage girls who are undergoing the difficult and confusing stage of adolescence. Their main reasons for idolizing Miley Cyrus are due to her singing and acting talents as well as the way she handles herself. The interviewed fans of Miley Cyrus have not done any outrageous or stupid things for their idol because of the reason that they have other outlets in order to express their enthusiasm and support for Miley Cyrus such as buying her albums, patronizing her products, and joining/creating networking sites.However, in the situation of one girl, she cannot freely express that Miley Cyrus is her idol because of the negative perception of her friends when it comes to the pop star. From the answers of the interviewee it is clearly proven that Miley Cyrus becomes an influential and powerful personality in the society because she represents the life of most teenagers.Miley Cyrus’ songs, television series, and ev en her life exemplify the issues and problems of an average American teenager. Miley Cyrus has substantially contributed to the American pop culture because most of her fans can actually relate with her life. Moreover, Miley Cyrus has her way of actually inspiring the lives of teenagers through her songs and the characters that she portrays, which embody a strong woman that will not give up amidst the challenges of life.