Article summary Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Article summary - Research Paper Example In addition, the findings revealed that the brain contains a neuron response that arouses a person to offer empathy to another after witnessing them in pain. Although care providers offer empathy to their patients as one way of treatment, nurses regulate their empathy to patients to avoid the traumatic effects of seeing patients in pain (Campbell-Yeo et al., 2008). The article plays an important role in educating caregivers on the effects of empathy to ailing patients as they treat them. From the study, empathy is an essential component in the management of pain. The article also sensitizes nurses to the extent of emerging evidence that empathetic aspects are uncontrollable and, thus, can render them vulnerable. In addition, the article contributes to the theoretical basis of nursing through reviewing the literature that exists on this subject, inspiring others to do more studies on it. The article contributes to nursing scientific growth through advising on the ethical behavior at work when dealing with patients in pain. Non-empathetic caregivers can now learn the behavior and better their services to

Matching Hypothesis Essay Example for Free

Matching Hypothesis Essay The Aims of this experiment was to see if there is a similarity between levels of physical appearance between couples. The method used in this experiment was very similar to that of Mursteins matching hypothesis, using 10photos of couples split in two so there was 10 males and 10females 20 participants were asked to rank the males in order of 1-10, and the rank the females in order of 1-10 without knowing which male was coupled with which female. The results of this method were recorded by means of Spearmans rank correlation. The Rho of this experiment was 0. 2727273, for the results to be statistically significant the Rho had to be equal to or greater than 0. 564. As this experiment was below this it was statistically infrequent and the null hypothesis was accepted. In conclusion the hypothesis of this experiment was rejected as results were statistically infrequent, this shows from the results that there is in fact no similarities in levels of physical appearance amongst couples in long term relationships. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder suggests that people are as attractive as a person sees them. So for instance a person may be seen as attractive to certain people but not attractive to others. How attractive people find each other forms the basis of my research Research has already been carried out on this area and different conclusions have been drawn upon, examples of these are; Goffman (1952) proposed the Matching Hypothesis, which stated that individuals were more likely to have long lasting relationships if they were of the same attractiveness as each other. The reasons why this is the case could be that, as human instinct is to reproduce, evolution will have conditioned one to form a relationship with an individual who is most likely to reproduce with them and, generally, this would be an individual of the same physical attractiveness. Many researchers have tested this theory: Walster (1966) used a computer dance as the basis for his research. He got 4 independent judges to rate the attractiveness of 752 students who signed up to this dating service. The students were then matched up at random with the only condition that a man wasnt matched up with a woman who was taller than him. Each person was then asked to rate their partner and it was found that the more attractive individuals were the best date that doesnt support the Matching Hypothesis. Walster Walster (1969) developed an experiment that was a follow up to this. The experiment allowed the participants to meet and interact beforehand, providing more ecological validity, and went on to support the Matching Hypothesis as the individuals preferred each other if they were of the same attractiveness. Murstein (1972) collected photographs of couples that were married or engaged and had participants rate each person in the photograph separately. His findings showed that generally the two people were rated as the same that, again, supports the Matching Hypothesis. The methodology of this research is used as a template for the research to be done for testing the hypothesis. There is also other research that suggests that people tend to be attracted to those with similar interests and personality traits. This research does not support the research that suggests people in long-term relationships are of similar levels of physical attractiveness. Kandel (1978) showed us that demographic behaviour has effects on relationships and that individuals tend to be more attracted to people who are similar to themselves (class, political views etc) but have certain qualities that the individual does not have, but could gain from (talents, admiration etc). Burgess Wallin (1958) found that there was a positive correlation between personality type and happiness of a marriage in a longitudinal study they carried out, but they also found that, in some circumstances, personalities would change in long-term relationships to match that of the other individual. Moreland Beach (1992) carried out a study with male workers that showed that, as they became more familiar with females they worked with, they also became more attracted to them, almost without noticing their physical attractiveness. This research shows that people tend to become more and more attracted to people as they get to know them better, but there is always the argument that the person would not approach the other person if they felt they were either far more attractive than themselves or if they viewed them as much less attractive. This then opens the question. Do people get together with people of the same levels of physical appearance as themselves? It is thought that all humans would go for the more attractive individual available but would be worried that this person would then accept a better offer and leave. Therefore people go for people on the same level as themselves. This is supported by (Walster and Walster, 1969). This aim of this study is to discover whether or not people in long-term relationships are of similar levels of physical appearance. My hypothesis suggests that people in long-term relationships will be of similar levels of physical appearance, reasons for choosing a directional hypothesis is that given the research conducted by Walster and Walster and Murstein it would suggest that there would be a positive correlation and my hypothesis would be correct.

Test-Oriented or Ability-Oriented Essay -- China Education Chinese Arg

Test-Oriented or Ability-Oriented It is known to the world that China has thousands of years of culture, and education is always an important part of carrying on and developing culture in Chinese history. With the changing of time, the content of education and the method of education have changed a lot. And now in the twentieth century, what does education look like in China after thousands of years of development? There are some kinds of problems existing in the current Test-Oriented Education system, and therefore, another more scientific education system, Ability-Oriented, is needed. However, applying another kind of education system should take many factors into consideration, which involve an argument of doing it. This study will mainly explore the situation of Test-Oriented Education, and the reason why the argument exists. For students in China, the most important thing in their education process is taking tests. And the most important tests are the College Entrance Examinations which now include 9 subjects: Chinese, English, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Politics, History and Geography. The scores of this series of exams will decide what kind of university or college to which they can apply and in what major they will be. Other words, the scores can decide students’ futures. These exams also mean a lot to high schools. The percentage of students being admitted into college is the standard for judging whether a school is good or not. And therefore, students study for gaining a high score, and teachers teach for gaining a high number of students being admitted. When tests become the final target of the education, it is called Test-Oriented Education. Although it is true as it is said that Chinese stude... ... the number of people from the countries exceeded that from the cities for the first time. Shanxi News Web. December 1, 2004 http://www.daynews.com.cn/mag6/20040606/ca38007.htm WeiQuan LunTan. Facing teenagers who are at the edge of committing suicide, what should we do? December 1, 2004 http://www.ccc.org.cn/6.1/Weiquan/WeiquanqinZS.htm Xinhua Web News. Students are lacking sleep and becoming the most â€Å"poor† people. December 1, 2004 http://edu.beelink.com.cn/20041114/1723941.shtml Yan, Pin. 1292 survey answer sheets show the problems about educating minors. Xinhua Web News. December 1, 2004 http://news.xinhuanet.com/focus/2004-11/30/content_2264703.htm Zhejiang Online News. Wenzhou â€Å"reducing burden† survey: teachers have no confidence, students cannot play. December 1, 2004 http://www.zjol.com.cn/gb/node2/node138669/userobject15ai2229949.html

Stereotype and Term Crooked Politician

Stereotypes are rampant in our culture and have been a dilapidating issue in our civilization for a long while. The use of stereotypes to judge another human being can cause serious detriment to the success and happiness of others. Understanding what stereotypes are and how they came about is important to eradicate the use of stereotypes and be able to assess a person’s worth based on their own individual traits. Some of the most common stereotypes are among politicians, tattooed persons, feminists, and senior citizens.I will uncover the stereotypes associated with these groups, how the stereotypes are used and why, and how stereotyping most definitely leaves a negative effect. Stereotyped Groups There is a vast majority of people that are stereotyped. When a stereotype is implemented, it groups individuals into a certain category (Moore, Parker, 2004). This poses a difficult standard because most people can fit into several categories based on different factors such as religi on, race, sex, and personality traits among other features.When someone chooses to group people and give that group a description, they are opting to provoke â€Å"a thought or image about a group of people based on little or no evidence† (Moore, Parker, 2004, p. 130). Political cues and stereotypes are key elements in the political spectrum that undoubtedly propel a certain gage in voter’s decisions (Johnston, 1981). Politicians have always had a general stereotype of being dishonest. The term â€Å"crooked politician† is a common one, and is seemingly used on a regular basis. Although there are mendacious politicians, it is unfair to ascertain that all or most of politicians have this characteristic.If a politician believes in a different ideal than a citizen, or if that politician simply belongs to the opposing political party, it is unfortunate that he or she may very well be coined as a dishonest politician. This is a form of mockery and slander. It is the more appropriate form of judgment to assess the unique traits and beliefs of that individual politician rather than putting them into a class of untrustworthy representatives by default. Another stereotype falls into the lap of tattooed persons. Those with tattoos have a stereotype of being tough, scary, and delinquent.One study perpetuated results that children connect a strong negative assumption about tattoos (Durkin, Houghton, 2000). Similarly, in this study it was also purported that young people who initiate interest in getting tattoos are aware of the stigma of criminality attached to those with tattoos or body art (Durkin, Houghton, 2000). Many people who choose to cover their bodies with tattoos do so with a creative edge and it does not represent any delinquency per se. However, it is obvious that many criminals and gangs have tattoos as standards, and this realization seems to bleed into the mainstream population of those with tattoos.It is unfortunate that society deems those with tattoos as estranged wrongdoers as it certainly impinges on the ability to gain employment or be generally respected and greeted appropriately by others. Feminists have long been looked upon as abrasive activists. Feminism started out this way in the 1960s in order to appease the needs of women and obtain rights. Some feminists have been extreme with their attitudes and choices of activism, but it does not necessarily represent the entire feminist population. Many feminists are not radicals but are mild heroines of women’s rights.Although some women have positive views of feminism as it related to fighting sexism and sexual oppression, only 12% of 200 college women in one particular study readily identified themselves in a feminist group (Roy, Weibust, Miller, 2007). This shows that feminism still has a negative connotation and most are scared to endorse feminism despite some of the positive aspects it entails. One last stereotype that seems highly unfortunate is t hat of senior citizens. Most people have the view that elderly people are slow and dumb. This comes from some facts pertaining to old age that include deterioration of the mind and body.However, it is very clear that many senior citizens have active lifestyles and are healthy and happy. Furthermore, the aspect of this stereotype that is most regrettable is that unlike the other groups that were discussed such as politicians, feminists, and tattooed persons, being elderly is not a choice; everyone comes to that stage in life. Therefore, perhaps the stereotypes forced upon senior citizens are by far the most pertinent examples of a lack of philanthropy and signify how stereotypes are harmful, outrageous slanters that lack conviction and critical thinking.The Truth Behind Stereotypes Stereotypes were developed on assumptions without any evidence. However, most stereotypes come alive with part truths that permeate the surface. There are relevant facts that pertain to stereotypes that ha ve been witnessed within a particular group. This is possibly the most crucial aspect of stereotyping. Because of this, most people engage in stereotypes without recourse because they believe that they are expressing truth. After all, some politicians are dishonest while some tattooed people are definitely unlawful.And most people can see that feminists are usually radicals while senior citizens are most surely slow and lack wit. However, it is not viable to put all individuals who share those labels into one group because there are most certainly many people that can be in those categories who invoke a ration of the unexpected. That is why truth should not be used as a scapegoat when applying stereotypes, because truth is whole and encompassing. Stereotypes clearly only deal with some and not the entire portion, therefore there is no truth to stereotypes.

Pick a Quote from the Book To Kill a Mockingbird Essay

During the depression in Alabama, many people, no matter what race, were encountering hard times. In the novel To Kill a Mockingbird by Haper Lee, Scout learns life lessons through experiences throughout her childhood. In her community and her household, Scout watches and interacts with all kinds of people. In the book, Scout learns something new about the people of Maycomb in each chapter and realizes that people are more than what they perceive to be by interacting with three main characters in the novel, Atticus, Mr. Cunningham, and Boo Radley. In the beginning of the book, Scout’s interpretation of these characters changed throughout the story. At the beginning of the book, Scout’s dad, Atticus, was not like the fun hunting loving father that the other kids had. Atticus was a fifty year old lawyer that didn’t have time or energy to even play football with Scout brother, Jem. Scout felt like she had nothing to brag or be proud of her father about that is shown in this quote, because his daily life was either in the office or into a book. â€Å"If your father was thirty you’d find life quite different† â€Å"It sure would. Atticus can’t do anything†¦. † (Lee 120) Later on in the story, Scout and Jem see a stray crazy dog. Atticus is asked to shoot it. Scout not knowing that her dad was the best shooter in Maycomb had doubts of letting her dad shoot the dog. Atticus shot the dog on the first bullet. â€Å"When we went home I told Jem we’d really have something to talk about at school on Monday. † (Lee 130) Scout’s first impression of her dad in the beginning of the story changed when she found that she could be proud of her father for being the best shooter in Maycomb. Another main character in the novel was Mr. Cunningham who was a farmer and one of Atticus clients. Atticus was also representing Tom Robinson, who was a black man being prosecuted for rape by Bob Ewell. Bob Ewell had gathered a bunch of men to go down to the jail house to kill Tom Robinson. Scout, who was hiding and watching everything from afar, could not recognize any of the men. Later on when she ran through the men to Atticus she then recognized one man, and that was Mr. Cunningham. At the beginning of the novel, Atticus told Scout that Mr. Cunningham was a good honest hard working man that did not take anything from anyone unlike Mr. Ewell. After she realized what was taking place at the jail house and what the men were there to do, she had doubts about Mr. Cunningham being the good man that her father had told her about at the beginning of the novel. Lastly, Boo Radley probably impacted Scout the most in what she learned. At the beginning of the novel, Scout, Jem, and Dill all were curious of the monster that lived at the Radley’s house. He was always kept away and never came out. All kinds of stories about Boo Radley had been told as Scout grew up, made by different people in her community. Scout was so scared of Boo that she would run past his house every time she would pass it. The town would not even eat the fruit off the trees by their house because they believed Boo had poisoned them. It was obvious that Boo Radley had a bad rep in the town. Later on in the story, Scout and Jim find out someone is leaving them things in a tree hole. They start to believe it is Boo, who was leaving it for them, but they are still not convinced that Boo is safe. Later on while Miss Maudie’s house was burning and Scout was watching it from afar, someone had put a blanket on her. They come to the conclusion it was Boo Radley and are confused why he would do so. When Boo Radley had saved them from Mr. Ewell in the last few chapters of the book, it had become clear that Boo was not bad at all but afraid of the outside world beyond his house. Scout’s original perception of Boo Radley was all wrong because of the people she interacted with day to day. In the novel To Kill a Mockingbird by Haper Lee, Scout learns life lessons through experiences throughout her childhood. Three main characters in this book impacted her life the most. Atticus, Mr. Cunningham, and Boo Radley showed Scout to not judge a book by its cover. Not everyone is who they first perceive to be. Like Atticus said â€Å"You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view — until you climb into his skin and walk around in it. † (Lee 30) Atticus was right, Scout did not really know any of these people until she put herself in their place and saw who they really were.

New Year Wishes From the Arts and More

New Year Wishes From the Arts and More When the clock strikes twelve on December 31st, people all over the world cheer and wish each other a very happy New Year. For some, this event is no more than a change of a calendar. For others, the New Year symbolizes the beginning of a better tomorrow. So, if you look forward to a good year ahead, spread happiness with these wonderful New Year wishes. Irish toastIn the New Year, may your right hand always be stretched out in friendship, never in want. Minnie L. HaskinsAnd I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year: Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown. And he replied: Go out into the darkness and put your hand into the hand of God. That shall be to you better than light, and safer than a known way. Movie: When Harry Met Sally, Harry BurnsAnd I love that you are the last person I want to talk to before I go to sleep at night. And its not because Im lonely, and its not because its New Years Eve. I came here tonight because when you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible. Edith Lovejoy PierceWe will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity and its first chapter is New Years Day. Charles DickensA merry Christmas to everybody! A happy New Year to the world! Sydney SmithResolve to make at least one person happy every day, and then in ten years you may have made three thousand, six hundred and fifty persons happy, or brightened a small town by your contribution to the fund of general enjoyment. AnonymousYour Merry Christmas may depend on what others do for you. But your Happy New Year depends on what you do for others. William Makepeace ThackerayCertain corpuscles, denominated Christmas Books, with the ostensible intention of swelling the tide of exhilaration, or other expansive emotions, incident upon the exodus of the old and the inauguration of the New Year. Aisha ElderwynEvery new year people make resolutions to change aspects of themselves they believe are negative. A majority of people revert back to how they were before and feel like failures. This year I challenge you to a new resolution. I challenge you to just be yourself. F. M. Knowles, A Cheerful Year BookHe who breaks a resolution is a weakling; He who makes one is a fool. G. K. ChestertonThe object of a new year is not that we should have a new year. It is that we should have a new soul. John Greenleaf WhittierWe meet todayTo thank Thee for the era done,And Thee for the opening one T. S. EliotFor last years words belong to last years language and next years words await another voice. And to make an end is to make a beginning. Emily MillerThen sing, young hearts that are full of cheer,With never a thought of sorrow;The old goes out, but the glad young yearComes merrily in tomorrow Martin LutherGlory to God in highest heaven,Who unto man His Son hath given;While angels sing with tender mirth,A glad new year to all the earth Walter ScottEach age has deemed the newborn yearThe fittest time for festal cheer Benjamin FranklinBe always at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let each New Year find you a better man. Edgar A. GuestA happy New Year! Grant that IMay bring no tear to any eyeWhen this New Year in time shall endLet it be said Ive played the friend,Have lived and loved and labored here,And made of it a happy year. William Arthur WardThis bright new year is given meTo live each day with zestTo daily grow and try to beMy highest and my best! Ella Wheeler WilcoxWhat can be said in New Year rhymes,Thats not been said a thousand times?The new years come, the old years go,We know we dream, we dream we know.We rise up laughing with the light,We lie down weeping with the night.We hug the world until it stings,We curse it then and sigh for wings.We live, we love, we woo, we wed,We wreathe our prides, we sheet our dead.We laugh, we weep, we hope, we fear,And thats the burden of a year. Charles LambOf all sound of all bells, the most solemn and touching is the peal which rings out the Old Year.

5 Types of Redundancy

5 Types of Redundancy 5 Types of Redundancy 5 Types of Redundancy By Mark Nichol Various words and phrases serve to communicate what a word or phrase refers to or herald to a reader that additional information is forthcoming or a comparison is being made, but writers sometimes make the mistake of unnecessarily employing more than one of these indicators at once. The following five sentences illustrate an array of redundancies. Discussions and revisions follow each erroneous sentence. 1. Many of them are between the ages of 15 and 35 years old. â€Å"The ages of† and â€Å"years old† serve the same purpose- to identify what the numbers 15 and 35 signify- so use one or the other: â€Å"Many of them are between 15 and 35 years old† or â€Å"Many of them are between the ages of 15 and 35.† 2. Despite differences between millennials and Generation Z, both share the same workplace learning needs. Both and share have the same function; they indicate that there is something in common. Either write â€Å"Despite differences between millennials and Generation Z, they share the same workplace learning needs,† or start the main clause with â€Å"both have† and detail the specifics. 3. In addition, financial institutions should also consider having teams that provide oversight at regional or global levels. Also is redundant to â€Å"in addition,† so use one or the other: â€Å"In addition, financial institutions should consider having teams that provide oversight at regional or global level† or â€Å"Financial institutions should also consider having teams that provide oversight at regional or global levels.† 4. He hosted an educational television program from 1993 to 1998, and he also wrote several books on scientific topics. And indicates that additional information is forthcoming, so also is extraneous: â€Å"He hosted an educational television program from 1993 to 1998, and he wrote several books on scientific topics.† (Another option is to slightly simplify the sentence: â€Å"He hosted an educational television program from 1993 to 1998 and wrote several books on scientific topics.† Alternatively, also can be retained if and is deleted, which requires, however, that a semicolon supplant the comma: â€Å"He hosted an educational television program from 1993 to 1998; he also wrote several books on scientific topics.†) 5. His account was bolstered by Jones, who, like Smith, also relies on communications with a network of family and acquaintances still in the city. Like indicates that Jones shares a characteristic with Smith, so also is superfluous: â€Å"His account was bolstered by Jones, who, like Smith, relies on communications with a network of family and acquaintances still in the city.† 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:Yours faithfully or Yours sincerely?8 Writing Tips for Beginners10 Varieties of Syntax to Improve Your Writing

The Geographic and Magnetic North Poles

The Geographic and Magnetic North Poles Earth is home to two North Poles, both located in the Arctic region: the geographic North Pole and the magnetic North Pole. Geographic North Pole The northernmost point on the Earths surface is the geographic North Pole, also known as True North. It is located at 90 ° North latitude but it has no specific line of longitude since all lines of longitude converge at the pole. The Earths axis runs through the North and South poles and it is the line around which the Earth rotates. The geographic North Pole is located approximately 450 miles (725 km) north of Greenland, in the middle of the Arctic Ocean: the sea there has a depth of 13,410 feet (4087 meters). Most of the time, sea ice covers the North Pole, but recently, water has been sighted around the exact location of the pole. All Points Are South If you are standing at the North Pole, all points are south of you (east and west have no meaning at the North Pole). While the Earths rotation takes place once every 24 hours, the speed of rotation is different based on where one is on the planet. At the Equator, one would travel 1,038 miles per hour; someone at the North Pole, on the other, hand, travels very slowly, barely moving at all. The lines of longitude that establish our time zones are so close at the North Pole that time zones are meaningless; thus, the Arctic region uses UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) when local time is necessary at the North Pole. Due to the tilt of the Earths axis, the North Pole experiences six months of daylight from March 21 through September 21 and six months of darkness from September 21 through March 21. Magnetic North Pole Located about 250 miles south of the geographic North Pole lies the magnetic North Pole at approximately 86.3 ° North and 160 ° West (2015), northwest of Canadas Sverdrup Island. However, this location is not fixed and is moving continually, even on a daily basis. The Earths magnetic North Pole is the focus of the planets magnetic field and is the point that traditional magnetic compasses point toward. Compasses are also subject to  magnetic declination, which is a result of the Earths varied magnetic field. Each year, the  magnetic North Pole  and the magnetic field shift, requiring those using  magnetic compasses  for navigation to be keenly aware of the difference between Magnetic North and True North. The magnetic pole was first determined in 1831, hundreds of miles from its present location.  The Canadian  National Geomagnetic Program  monitors the movement of the magnetic North Pole. The magnetic North Pole moves on a daily basis, too. Every day, theres an elliptical movement of the magnetic pole about 50 miles (80 kilometers) from its average center point. Who Reached the North Pole First? Robert Peary, his partner Matthew Henson, and four Inuit are generally credited with being the first to reach the geographic North Pole on April 9, 1909 (although many suspects  they missed the exact North Pole by a few miles). In 1958, the United States nuclear submarine Nautilus was the first vessel to cross the Geographic North Pole.  Today, dozens of planes fly over the North Pole using great circle routes between continents.

Ghana Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Ghana - Essay Example The Mali realm rose back in the mid 1300. Moreover, it emerged from the greater Ghana Empire. However, due to external disputes and internal conflicts within the Ghana Empire and the eventual crumple of the Ghanaian Kingdom, the Mali Kingdom emerged with Sundiata being their leader (Conrad 13). This clearly depicts how Ghanaian began its superiority over the Malian realm. In fact, some historians deem Ghana to be the greatest kingdom in the early part of the 1300. Besides, civilization started in Ghana earlier than in Mali. In fact, civilization in Ghana began even before the arrival of the Europeans into Africa. Moreover, Ghana had started trading early, where they operated with other communities. Their trade items included gold, cloth and copper among others. Moreover, the regime imposed tax to the goldmines in the region (Conrad 14). Mali was still under Ghana Empire, and did little in terms of trade. As a result, the economic capacity of Ghana was far much better as compared to that of Mali, their counterparts. In the political aspect, Ghana had a well-organized system, with the Soninke people reigning over the Berbers. Moreover, the empire had captured a vast area and made it its kingdom. Mali was still under the Ghanaian Empire. The Ghanaian trade in gold had made the empire extremely powerful. Besides, the use of iron aided Ghana in creating weaponry for its territorial army. Furthermore, it was not until the Senegalese Almoravids intervention that capacitated the Malians to take over Ghana Kingdom (Conrad 14). In addition, the Ghana Empire was extensively rich. This mainly resulted from the expansive gold trade within the region. This distinct trade in gold made Ghana change it earlier name (Wagadugu) to its present Ghana (meaning gold land). This gave Ghana an advantage over its former territory, Mali (Conrad 16). However, the ancient Ghana is different from the contemporary Ghana. Besides, the Ghana kings controlled the gold trade

Cause and Effect of the Unemployment Rate Term Paper

Cause and Effect of the Unemployment Rate - Term Paper Example The paper will also try to identify other causes for such extraordinary situation not seen ever before. Understanding Phillips Curve Below is a typical Phillips Curve drawn for the period between 1961 to 1969 as unemployment rate versus inflation rate. Source: http://www.econlib.org/library/Enc/PhillipsCurve.html The curve shows inverse relationship between the unemployment rate and inflation. During the years 1961-67, as unemployment rate rises from 4 percent to 6 percent, inflation rate reduces from 3 to 1 percent. A way back in those years, Philips curve was used as a guide for policy makers. To reduce the unemployment rate from 6 percent to 5 percent, the government would think of stimulating the economy by spending more but later on Phelps and Friedman put forward their views that in order to achieve lower unemployment rate government cannot trade with higher inflation rate. If unemployment is at the natural rate and the real wage also remains constant and the government uses mo netary and fiscal policy tools to lower unemployment rate below its natural rate, then the resultant increase in demand will encourage firms to raise their prices quickly and would like to pay more. Due to this, labor supply will increase and unemployment rate goes down. This is an illusion for labor as price will rise more rapidly than they would anticipate. The moment they feel the pinch of inflation, labor supply gets reduced at the old wage rates or they will demand increase in wages. In this process, real wage gets back to its previous level and the unemployment rate comes back to the natural rate. The price inflation continues at the higher rates due to expansionary fiscal policies. (Hoover 2008) Friedman’s and Phelps’s analyses explained first time that Phillips curves behave differently in the long run. The average inflation rate in 1960s was about 2.5 percent which rose to 7 percent in the 1970s; however during the same period the unemployment rate did not fal l but increased from about 4 percent to about 6 percent. This implied that at some rate of unemployment there would always be a stable rate of inflation. This came to be known as NAIRU (nonaccelerating inflation rate of unemployment). NAIRU is presented here below for the period between 1945 and 2000. (Hoover 2008) Source: http://www.econlib.org/library/Enc/PhillipsCurve.html NAIRU does not suggest that unemployment rate is constant unlike natural rate of unemployment. Milton Friedman developed the Expectations-Augmented Phillips Curve that explained the breakdown of the Phillips Curve. The Expectations-Augmented Phillips Curve for the period from 1976 up to 2002 for the changes in the rate of inflation versus unemployment rate is plotted as per the following. (Hoover 2008) http://www.econlib.org/library/Enc/PhillipsCurve.html The chart shows NAIRU at about 6 percent. Assuming a situation when economy is at NAIRU, rate of inflation at 3 percent, and the government wants to reduce it to zero. The chart suggests that monetary and fiscal policy which drives unemployment rate from 6 to 7 percent brings down the inflation rate by 1 percentage point. If fiscal management causes unemployment rate to remain at 7 percent; it will take almost three years for inflation to reach to zero. The expectations-augmented Phillips Curve is considered a most basic macroeconomic forecasting tool used by most of the central banks while modulating fiscal policies. Most diverse schools of macroeconomic thought accept the applicability of this model. It is

Organisational Mischief. Organisational Behaviour vs. Misbehaviour Literature review

Organisational Mischief. Organisational Behaviour vs. Misbehaviour - Literature review Example Such type of behaviour is it become regular would hamper the culture of the organisation. A key element of the contract that exists between the employer and the employee is the input of employee compliance, and the acceptance of degree of managerial control. In order to defend their sense of self, employees often engage in activities such as burning down the workplace or stealing a pencil, circulating rude cartoons in the office to playing jokes or pranks on their co employees. Such activities do not deny that employees at work often joke at each other only because of the sake of enjoying the joke. Organisational mischief involves a mixture of psychological self defence. Some form of mischief is individualistic whereas some are formed in groups. Individual mischief includes like individual act of being absent, inattentiveness of the employee usually by chatting with colleagues or day dreaming, no or less compliance with the given instruction by the company, trying to keep information to oneself, bullying other employees, sexual harassment, breaking of equipment out of frustration and also leaving organisation at an inconvenient time. Some social mischief’s which happens in the organisation are such as organised fiddles, using the work place for discussing the non work things, workplace games, practical jokes, wind-ups, piss takes, harassment and bullying. In such types of organisational mischief’s people try to protect the material aspect of implicit contract (Tony, 2006, p.143). The research topic chosen is organisational mischief especially in the category of joke. Joke are practised in the organisation sometimes just for the sake of making a joke. The organisational misbehaviour or mischief remains a further paper to research as it gives an area to find out more about the misbehaviour by the employees and the need to issue some ethical code of conduct with respect to the mischiefs in the work place. The paper starts with the literature review o f the topic which takes into consideration the critical review of workplace mischief, the major issues and concepts which are used in such type of mischief. Critical Literature Review Organisational Behaviour vs. Misbehaviour In an organisation there are many forms of behaviour as well as misbehaviour which are not stock in trade of any required discipline but they might be very common. These forms of behaviour might scant attention from the textbooks and are not regarded as an important feature of the organisation. Factors such as bullying, practical joking, sexual harassment also includes rituals and also rites of passage. Different forms of misbehaviour are connected with each other. Both the management and the social scientists have overlooked the organisational misbehaviour despite of the fact that they know misbehaviour exists in the organisation, this action is seen as inessential by the management. Sometimes there is complicity with the other members of the organisation abou t misbehaviour. Employees are not official allowed to exhibit their respective behaviour. Therefore there is a substantial agreement that until and unless such types of behaviour interferes with organisational purpose it is most likely to pass unnoticed by the management.

Disclosures regulations in the US Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Disclosures regulations in the US - Essay Example This paper will attempt to explain these regulations, as well as provide an example of these regulations by showing how the executives of Pfizer, a pharmaceutical giant, complies with the CFR. Body According to the SEC, all corporations must disclose any renumeration made to the CEO, CFO and the three most highly paid officers (Right2Info). The rules apply to the following disclosures: â€Å"(1) tabular disclosures regarding executive remuneration and director remuneration;(2) narrative description of other types of remuneration and any information material to an understanding of the tabular information, and (3) a Compensation Discussion and Analysis (â€Å"CD&A†)† (17 C.F.R.  § 229.402(b) (2008)) . The way that all companies must disclose this information is through their annual proxy statement, which the SEC's website makes available on-line (17 C.F.R.  § 229.402(b) (2008)). The information on executives in the tabular disclosures required is information about the salary, bonuses, equity awards and deferred compensation. For directors, the disclosures are similar, although not as detailed with regards to the equity awards. The SEC has started requiring, since 2006, that its compensation discussion and analysis (CD&A), that corporations begin disclosing the following with regards to executive compensation: â€Å"(i) the objectives of the company’s remuneration programs; (ii) what the remuneration programs of the company are designed to reward; (iii) what is each element of remuneration; (iv) why the company chooses to pay each element of remuneration; (v) how the company determines the amount for each element of remuneration; and (vi) how each element of remuneration and the company’s decisions regarding that element fit into the company’s overall compensation objectives and affect decisions regarding other elements of remuneration.† (17 C.F.R.  § 229.402(b)(1) (2008)) . The reason why the SEC has started requiri ng this information is so that investors can get the justification for the salaries and bonuses that executives receive, whereas before this requirement, corporations simply had to disclose numerical data without justification. This is important, as a corporation has to make these justifications, especially into today's climate of anger about executive salaries. Investors and the public have a right to know exactly why a certain executive is making a certain salary and receives certain bonuses. Additionally, there are other regulations that are designed to increase transparency about executive and director compensation. For instance, there are regulations that require disclosure regarding â€Å"(i) beneficial ownership of public company securities by persons owning 5% or more of any class of the company’s voting securities and executives and directors; (ii) transactions between the company and related persons (generally defined to include officers, directors, 5% beneficial h olders, and close family members of these individuals); and (iii) disclosure regarding a company’s processes and procedures for the consideration and determination of executive and director remuneration.† (17 C.F.R.  § 229.407 (2008)). As an example of the disclosures that are required by the SEC under the promulgated CFR rules, one can look to the SEC disclosures for Jeffrey Kindler, who is the CEO of Pfizer. On this website, the company details the remuneration for Mr. Kindler, as well as detailed several pages of justification for why Mr. Kindler is being

Question answer Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Question answer - Assignment Example mains, and for instance a mathematician can prove the conjecture that bundles of order two are commutative, from the axioms of the group theory, hence an accountant might develop axioms that define how the company grows and functions. These axioms eventually prove that employees health decrease with age. This example and several other tasks can be done by the ATP system, provided there is a suitable formulation of the problem in these three ways; conjecture, axioms and hypotheses. David Wheeler, born in 1927, is widely acknowledged as a significant pioneer in computing having invented the relational database model. According to Hey & PaÃŒ pay 2014, David Wheeler is a British computing pioneer, who made a significant contribution in the construction and programming of the EDSAC computer.   The relational model designed for database management is a model that is founded on the initial order predicate logic, and it is originally developed and presented by David Wheeler. In this model for the database, every data is displayed in the form of tuples, bundled into relations. A database developed in the form of the relational model is the relational database, and the purpose of the relational model is contrived to offer a declarative system for specifying the data and questions. In retrospect, the users directly declare what information the database has and the information they need from the database management system. Subsequently, the software takes care of defi ning the data structures of storing the information and retrieval system for answering the questions. Currently, a number of relational database use the SQL data description and question language, and these systems employ the engineering approximation that is the relational model. Henderson 2009, asserts that Ole-Johan Dahl and Kristen Nyagarard are pioneers in computing and are widely acknowledged for the ideas in object oriented programming through their development of the programming languages Simula 1 and

Education and Parental Involvement Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Education and Parental Involvement - Essay Example The crucial stakeholders in the process include teachers and parents among others though the mentioned are the most crucial in educating the children. This is because this two are the most involved in the education process. It might be perceived that it is the teachers are solely the ones having a significant impact in a child’s education. This is misconstrued, since parents are the first teachers for a child. They also spend a considerable amount of time with them naturally making them Principle figures in the education process. Various factors influence the input of guardians and instructors in the education process. In the articles, one if the most prominent factor is social class. This is because this factor influences the situations in which the child faces in their quest to be educated. According to Rodriguez, cultural background is also significant since education is influenced significantly overtly or indirectly with culture. Economic classes are also prominent in this process. All this factors come into play when an immigrant child attempts to learn in a foreign environment. This is because the learning process is not only alien to the learner, but also to the guardians. Rose, who shows the significance of alienation of these parties to the process, reiterates this fact. This is because there are numerous limitations in the understanding and participation of the parents in ensuring the success of a child in school. Although learning is a crucial requirement in the modern society, there are various limitations that immigrant parents face, in their involvement, in the edification process of their children. Based on the articles, when a family immigrates, they are exposed to a new environment. This will mean that the family will have to adapt to the new scenario. This will mean that both parents and child will have to readjust themselves to the new education system. This is because the new system will be centered on the cultural inclinations of the new environment (Rodriguez, p3). This will lead to alienation of the student and the parent from the education process. This will result in the parent not being in a position of extending assistance to the Child’s schoolwork. This is because the situation will expose the child and parent to cultural extremes. This will lead to conflicting influences in their education since the transition process will be challenging for them. This will be an impediment for the parent to participate in the education process of their children. In addition, due to the differences, the child will cut themselves mentally from the parents. This is because the parents due to the environment will lose their relevance in the learning process. The child will create a perception that the parents are incapable of being of any assistance in this scenario. This will result in the child becoming autonomous in their learning, in that they will do their homework and other learning activities without parental involvement, hence shutting out parents. The child will be embarrassed of their parents’ illiteracy hence they will attempt for any form of guidance education wise. The child may constantly want to reiterate to parents on their lack of education (Rodriguez, p4). According to Rose, Immigrant parents will also not comprehend the procedures and terms used in the education

Question answer Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Question answer - Assignment Example mains, and for instance a mathematician can prove the conjecture that bundles of order two are commutative, from the axioms of the group theory, hence an accountant might develop axioms that define how the company grows and functions. These axioms eventually prove that employees health decrease with age. This example and several other tasks can be done by the ATP system, provided there is a suitable formulation of the problem in these three ways; conjecture, axioms and hypotheses. David Wheeler, born in 1927, is widely acknowledged as a significant pioneer in computing having invented the relational database model. According to Hey & PaÃŒ pay 2014, David Wheeler is a British computing pioneer, who made a significant contribution in the construction and programming of the EDSAC computer.   The relational model designed for database management is a model that is founded on the initial order predicate logic, and it is originally developed and presented by David Wheeler. In this model for the database, every data is displayed in the form of tuples, bundled into relations. A database developed in the form of the relational model is the relational database, and the purpose of the relational model is contrived to offer a declarative system for specifying the data and questions. In retrospect, the users directly declare what information the database has and the information they need from the database management system. Subsequently, the software takes care of defi ning the data structures of storing the information and retrieval system for answering the questions. Currently, a number of relational database use the SQL data description and question language, and these systems employ the engineering approximation that is the relational model. Henderson 2009, asserts that Ole-Johan Dahl and Kristen Nyagarard are pioneers in computing and are widely acknowledged for the ideas in object oriented programming through their development of the programming languages Simula 1 and

Thornton's Strategic Choices Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4500 words

Thornton's Strategic Choices - Essay Example 18 References 21 (Words 4997) 1. Introduction The identification of successful strategies is a key challenge for managers worldwide. Usually, the ability of managers to locate strategies that are able to respond to organizational needs is differentiated, according to the personal skills and perceptions. Also, each organization’s external environment is likely to affect, more or less, the progress of strategies of the particular organization. In this context, the establishment of an effective strategic management framework can help an organization to increase its efficiencies and stabilize its market position. Kew and Stredwick (2005) note that three are the key elements of all strategic management frameworks: ‘the strategic analysis, the strategic choice and the strategic implementation’ (Kew and Stredwick 2005, p.205). The first of these elements, i.e. the strategic analysis addresses the following two issues: ‘which is the organization’s current pos ition and where the organization wants to go’ (Kew and Stredwick 2005, p.205). At the next level, the strategic choice refers to the need for the identification of appropriate strategic options, as appropriate, for responding to the organization’s needs, as they have been identified through the strategic analysis process (Kew and Stredwick 2005). ... In 2011, the firm’s employees were estimated to 4,205 (Thornton, company website, investor relations 2012). The firm’s turnover in 2011 was estimated to ?218.26m, slightly increased to the turnover of 2010, which was estimated to ?214.55m (Thornton, company website, investor relations/ financial summary 2012). The firm’s performance during the last five years indicates that the organization has been able to face effectively the market challenges. Indeed, the turnover of the firm from 2007 up to 2011 has been changed, as presented in the table in Figure 1 below. Turnover of Thornton from 2007 to 2011 2007 ?185.99m 2008 ?208.12m 2009 ?214.80m 2010 ?214.55m 2011 ?218.26m Figure 1 - Turnover of Thornton from 2007 to 2011 (Source: company website, investor relations/ financial summary 2012) According to the figures presented in Figure 1 below, the organization has managed to achieve a continuous growth. However, if reviewed more carefully, the organization’s pe rformance has not been improved the last five years. More specifically, the organization’s profits have been significantly decreased in 2011, if compared to 2007, as also revealed through the table in Figure 2 below. Profits of Thornton from 2007 to 2011 2007 ?5.21m 2008 ?6.07m 2009 ?3.60m 2010 ?4.35m 2011 -?0.25m Figure 2 – Profits (after tax) of Thornton from 2007 to 2011 (Source: company website, investor relations/ financial summary 2012) At the same time, the number of the organization’s employees has been decreased in 2011, as compared to 2010; in 2010 the firm’s employees were 4,377 while in 2011 they were reduced to 4,205 (Thornton, company website, investor relations 2012). Also, problems in regard to the alignment

Attachment Theory Essay Example for Free

Attachment Theory Essay Hunting and Fishing has been a part of the past and present of America. It plays a vital role in the history. Even in the society today, hunting and fishing contributes a lot in the society. Centuries ago, hunting and fishing are means of survival for the ancient people. But as years pass development began, and the traditional ways of surviving has also developed. The number of hunting and fishing had also decreased. People using hunting and fishing for survival become lesser because of agricultural and industrial development. The purpose of hunting and fishing was also changed, as a survival means to sports. Hunting and fishing was said to be a significant activity in the history and to the society of today. But how does hunting and fishing began? And how it evolved from survival means to a popular sport? Hunting was a way of killing wild animals to obtain something, during the ancient times a person hunts to obtain food, clothing and shelter. It was a necessity during those times; hunting was the primary source of the basic needs of the people. A person hunts to be able to provide the family food, fur and leather for clothing, and hide for shelter. Those times having a good source of the group’s needs makes a strong foundation, it helps a tribe or a group survive. Through the centuries development had occurred and also changed the ways of people, one of these ways is hunting. Hunting gradually lost its purpose as the primary source of food due to agricultural development and manufacturing. But because of the challenge and excitement it offers, people enjoyed hunting and considered it as a past time which later become a sport. Egyptians, Greeks and Romans considered hunting as a sport. For the Greeks, hunting develops a healthy body and well-being. It is not only now that hunting has regulating law, during the 13th century Kublai Khan, a Mongol emperor restrained his subjects from hunting. As well as the Feudal Lords during the 5th-15th century, they restricted the noble people from hunting (it was a popular past time for the nobles). But during the 14th century, the traditional method of hunting was changed when the gunpowder was invented. Instead of using trap, snare, bow and arrow, hunters began to use rifles and shotguns. Rifles and shotguns was easier to use, and has longer range. Though modern methods of hunting was introduced, some hunters still prefer the original weapons used in hunting for the reason that it was more challenging than the modern method. Hunting then became a very popular sport, too popular that it became widely known. But as its popularity arises, the hunted animals became fewer. In 19th century, some of the hunted animals became endangered species. The government to cope with the decreasing number of wildlife regulated the game of hunting. In some state hunting was not allowed anymore, but in some state limitations are set. People are allowed to hunt but during the hunting season only, and there is only a limited amount of animal that can be killed per hunter. Due to the restrictions imposed the number of â€Å"game animals† and endangered species were increased. But this also became a problem; the wild animals became over populated and have to allow hunting again to regulate the amount of the animals. Since then hunting became legal and became a very popular sport. Hunting was considered a recreational activity and increased the tourism of the country. Fishing on the other is the same as hunting; it was known as a source of food. Ancient people use pieces of bones as hooks and the vines as line. The Egyptians, Greeks and Romans are the civilization that already uses fishing during those times. An Egyptian writer even wrote some tips on how to fish. In the 2nd and 3rd century a Macedonian wrote about the use of artificial flies to lure fish. In the 15th century â€Å"sport fishing† was introduced. It was not only become popular in America but also in Europe. When it was introduced as a â€Å"sport fishing†, there was already a written book about how to use a fishing rod, how to tie knots in fishing lines and using artificial lures and flies. Many people become very interested in fishing, and these written books made fishing more popular. The â€Å"sport fishing† was not a popular sport only for men but also for women. The participation of women in the â€Å"sport fishing† increased the people’s interest in it. Some organizations are even built to protect the fish habitats. Just like hunting, fishing also undergone the same evolution the hunting had gone to. Through Fishing the tourism and business of the country was increased. Both hunting and fishing was already a necessity in ancient times, people gained many benefits through these methods. It even becomes a tool for survival. Until now, even though hunting and fishing were already considered as a sport or recreational activity the society still gains many benefits from it. Hunting and fishing helps the government in protecting and conserving the wildlife habitat of the country. Because of the popularity of these two sports, the government managed to gain funds to maintain the wildlife reserve. Through the system imposed, taxes are imposed on the manufacturer of weapons used on these methods and on the fuels. There also hunting and fishing fees, these system helps in regulating the wildlife habitat of the country. It even attracted hunters and fishers to create a private group to protect the fishing and wildlife habitat. Because of the protection and conservation, the country managed to maintain an abundant wildlife habitat and increased the tourism of the country. Whether in past or present, hunting and fishing had really played a vital role in the society. In continues to help the country, first for survival and then became for tourism. Hunting and fishing became a part of the culture of the America. These two sports not only provide pleasure and enjoyment, but also protection to the wildlife habitat. Maintaining these two sports was really a great help, not only for the sake of an individual but for the whole society. Sources: The Legally Structured Role of Hunting and Fishing in the US and Abroad. Available at: www. huntingreport. com. Hunting. Available at: www. encarta. msn. com. â€Å"History of Fishing†. Available at: www. activeangler. com.

The Strategic Analysis Of Adolph Coors

The Strategic Analysis Of Adolph Coors Beer is the oldest alcoholic beverage in the world. It has produced in an artisanal setting for thousands of years, dating back to around 3500 BC (History, 2010). As developments in agriculture and technology occurred, beer production shifted to industrial manufacturing. Beer is produced using a process called brewing. The brewing process involves variable amounts of time in which a source of starch, usually hops, is fermented to produce alcohol. The process can produce countless types of beer, with variable concentrations of alcohol, varying flavors, and appearances. These beverages are packaged into either kegs, glass bottles, or aluminum cans. A building or organization dedicated to this process is known as a brewery. The brewing industry today is a global business that is made up of several dominant companies. As of 2010, the key players in the industry are MillerCoors and Anheuser-Busch. Anheuser Busch is the largest brewing company in the United States with 32 breweries globally, 12 of which are located in the United States. In late 2007, SABMiller and Molson Coors Brewing Company joined forces in order to better compete with Anheuser-Busch. These major brewing companies make up the largest segment of the brewing industry. There are also thousands of smaller regional breweries often referred to as microbreweries which make up a second segment. Finally, a very small percentage of homebrews and domestic production occur. This analysis will focus almost exclusively on the segment that consists of the multinational conglomerates such as MillerCoors and Anheuser-Busch. The US beer market produced total revenues of $78.8 billion in 2008. Lager sales account for $28.2 billion of the total (Datamonitor, 2009b). Beer accounts for 52.9% of the alcoholic drink industry in the US, with spirits at 29.4%, and Wine at 17.7% (Datamonitor, 2009a). *A stipulation to this analysis is that it will be based primarily on the Harvard case study Adolph Coors in the Brewing Industry. Outside information will be incorporated where necessary for a complete analysis. *In the absence of specific statistics from past years, current numbers are substituted. *Brevity is highly valued for this analysis, though not at the expense of a thorough analysis. PEST The PEST model is a framework which is used to analyze the macroenvironmental factors that companies within an industry must take into account. This PEST analysis will examine the political, economic, social, and technological factors in relation to the brewing industry. Political and Government regulation There are significant rules governing general alcohol consumption. First, drinking in public places such as streets or parks is prohibited. Second, the minimum age of consumption is 21 years old in the United States. There are also restrictions related to the manufacturing, sale and possession of alcohol. In the United States, the sale of alcoholic beverages is controlled by individual states. Finally, the production of spirits is taxed and requires a permit to operate a plant (TTBGov, 2010). Economic The brewing industry benefits from having commodity-based inputs. There is little variance in the raw materials necessary for the brewing process, as they are mainly agricultural commodities. Price elasticity of demand for beer is low, ensuring steady demand. Social-cultural Consumer preferences are important in the brewing industry. Consumers have varying tastes, and prefer to be able to choose among the varying types of beer. However, alcohol consumption can have adverse affects on human physical health. Beer is high in carbohydrates, and it can be argued that high consumption can cause weight gain, or even liver-disease. There are also benefits of alcohol consumption. The age of the consumer affects the industry. As baby boomers reach the legal drinking age, the number of beer drinkers rose, and also the amount consumed (Ghemawat, 1992). Additionally, more and more Americans drink more beer at home, whereas they had traditionally had it in bars and restaurants (Ghemawat, 1992). Technological Brewing techniques affect the brewing industry heavily. Post WWII developments would allow for less time needed for the aging process. The pasteurization process would allow beer to last up to six months unrefrigerated (Ghemawat, 1992). Capacity and efficiency are highly based on technology of both the brewing, and packaging machinery. Also, the switch from glass bottles to aluminum cans was a large technological development. The technology surrounding television and web marketing have changed, giving firms easier methods for greater exposure, and also shipping and transportation costs fluctuate, affecting value-added (Ghemawat, 1992). III. Porters Five Forces A. Threat of New Entrants (LOW) The following elements will help determine the level of threat from new entrants. 1. Economies of scale Economies of scale are significant for the brewing industry. This represents a high barrier to entry for potential competitors. Large, established firms such as MillerCoors and Anheuser-Busch have enormous brewing capacity, and are able to realize economies of scale that come from mass production and larger contracts. As of 1985, doubling the scale of a brewery cut unit costs by 25% (Ghemawat, 1992). During the rising demand that the industry experienced during the 1960s and 1970s, both Anheuser-Busch and Schlitz, major players at the time, added large breweries to help cope with the demand, and to benefit from economies of scale (Ghemawat, 1992). This allows existing firms to decrease their cost per unit produced. Any new entrant would have to invest a large amount of capital in production facilities. This makes the industry unattractive. 2. Working capital requirements The cost of operating a brewery is significant. A significant implication of the brewing process is that it takes time. A major development in the brewing process after WWII allowed brewers to cut the aging time from 30 days to 20 (Ghemawat, 1992). Even with this decrease, it is still costly not only to facilitate the brewing process, but to maintain locations in which the beer can be aged. This serves as a deterrent for small firms who wish to enter. 3. Proprietary product differences Coors, like many most brewers, has a unique taste associated with its beverages. Little information was available as to the nature of the Coors recipe, however, it would not difficult for any knowledgeable entrant to the industry to imitate the taste of the varying Coors lines. Coors does age its product for 70 days, rather than the industry average of 20-30 (Ghemawat, 1992). Imitation of the Coors brewing process would also be easy, and therefore, threat of entrants is increased. 5. Brand identity Brand identity is important in the brewing industry. For Coors, their marketing expenses as a percentage of sales increased from 3.3% in 1973 to 10% in 1985 (Ghemawat, 1992). This decreases the threat of entrants, as it takes significant investment to establish brand recognition. 4. Absolute Cost Advantages As stated above, Coors and its major competitors can take advantage of economies of scale, which gives lower manufacturing costs, and also cheaper access to raw materials. Coors produces its own malt through long-contracts with farmers (Ghemawat, 1992). These connections are likely exclusive to large firms, and decrease the threat of entrants. 6. Access to distribution Coors products reach the market primarily through retailers and wholesalers. As of 1985, Coors distribution network consisted of 569 wholesalers, and 5 additional Coors-owned wholesalers. Coors also has its own trucking subsidiary, which takes on a large amount of its transportation needs. This decreases the threat of entrants (Ghemawat, 1992). The threat of new entrants is low. The capital requirements for starting a brewery, and quickly achieving the necessary economies of scale is a large barrier. Access to distribution networks takes time, and also contracts to obtain necessary shelf-space to sell product. These factors make the industry unattractive for new entrants. B. Suppliers (LOW) 1. Supplier concentration The main suppliers in the brewing industry consist of malted grain and hops for the fermentation process, and bottles or barrels for storage and transportation. Supplier power is weak because of their size, relative to the brewers, and also because farming operations are numerous (Brewing Industry US). 2. Presence of substitute inputs The presence of substitutes in the brewing industry varies. If aluminum cans are considered a substitute for bottles and barrels, then this factor is an issue. Also, lower quality hops might be substituted for higher quality, more expensive, flavorful hops. 3. Differentiation of inputs Since ingredients required for brewing have little qualitative differentiation, supplier power is lowered. 4. Importance of volume to supplier There are few other uses for hops, especially commercially, than brewing beer. The brewing industry purchases a significant percentage of the total hop production, which diminishes supplier power. However, there are alternative uses for barley, which can be integrated in the brewing process, but isnt as common. This slightly boosts overall supplier power (Brewing Industry US). 5. Impact of inputs on our cost or ability to differentiate Agricultural inputs account for 20-25% of total raw materials costs for major brewers. The remainder is allocated for packaging (Ghemawat, 1992). This increases supplier power, as the price of their product affects the final product. 6. Threat of forward or backward integration Since suppliers are small in comparison to breweries, forward integration is uncommon. However, there is evidence of backwards integration by large brewers. For example, Coors acquired a grain-processing plant as well as other operations to protect itself from price fluctuations (Ghemawat, 1992). 7. Access to labor As of 1985, Coors was the only major brewer that was not unionized (Ghemawat, 1992). The implication is that the brewing industry is unionized. During a strike in 1977, a strike caused Coors to have to shift employees within the company. The production levels were quickly returned to normal, indicating that skilled workers are not necessary (Ghemawat, 1992). Labor supplier power is low. Supplier power is low because of unfavorable supplier concentration. Suppliers of the brewing industry need the brewing industry as there are little other uses for their products, and their products are considered commodities. C. Buyers (MODERATE) 1. Buyer concentration Buyers in this market are highly concentrated. In 1985, 4,500 independent wholesalers existed in the United States (Ghemawat, 1992). Larger buyers are able to negotiate contracts effectively (Datamonitor, 2009b). 2. Buyer switching costs Buyers do not have particularly high switching costs. Many buyers are willing to switch brands based on price and differentiation. The lack of buyer switching costs increases buyer power, making the brewing industry more unattractive (Datamonitor, 2009b). 3. Threat of backward integration There is no indication that buyers are backward integrating, and producing their own product to sell, making the industry more attractive. 4. Pull through Pull through exists in the brewing industry because brand identity is important. Advertising expense as a percentage of sales over time for the brewing industry has been trending upward. As of 1973, advertising expenditures were 3.3% of sales. That amount increased to 10% of sales by 1985 (Ghemawat, 1992). Therefore, the brewing industry has power over the buyers, making it more attractive. 5. Price sensitivity The brewing industry is able to pass cost increases on to the buyer as indicted by the existence of multiple beer segments. End consumers are willing to pay more for quality beer. Brewers are not able to pass on shipping costs however, reducing attractiveness (Ghemawat, 1992). Buyer power is moderate. There are more buyers than firms in this industry, and pull-through from brewers creates power. There are shipping costs and other aspects that the breweries cannot pass on to their customers. D. Substitute Products (MODERATE) Substitute products for beer consist of wine, liquor, as well as imported beer. These products constitute a moderate threat. In 2008, Beer had a 52.9% share of the alcoholic drinks market, with spirits at 29.4%, and wine at 17.7% (Datamonitor2009a). 1. Relative price/performance relationship of substitutes The per-unit-volume price is often affected by alcohol content, which is higher in liquor and spirits. Also, shelf space is more expensive for items such as beer, which must be refrigerated (Datamonitor,2009a). The threat of substitute products is increased. 2. Buyer propensity to substitute Projections for the industry indicate that consumers may switch away from beer to other alcoholic beverages as consumers become more confident and begin spending their discretionary income. Consumers who may normally drink higher priced alcoholic drinks tend to switch to lower priced beer during a recession (Ibisworld, 2010). This effects the buyers of the brewing industry as their demand will fluctuate. The threat of substitute product is moderate because of end-user propensity to switch away from beer when possible financially. Other forms of alcoholic drinks are often more potent, making them a better deal for the consumer, depending on their intentions or desires. E. Rivalry (HIGH) 1. Degree of concentration and balance among competitors The brewing industry is highly concentrated, and unbalanced. In 1985, the six major players in the industry controlled 75% of market share. In 2009, this number had changed to the two major players controlling 79.2% of the market share. Anheuser-Busch controls 50.1%, and MillerCoors, the remaining 29.1%. This heavy rivalry makes the industry unattractive (Ibisworld, 2010). 2. Diversity among competitors Anheuser-Busch and MillerCoors are following similar strategies. Both companies are focusing on promoting their largest brands, expanding their geographic reach, and increasing efficiency (Ibisworld, 2010). This makes the industry unattractive. 3. Industry growth rate (past and projected) The brewing industry is experiencing maturity, growth rates have been slow, and consolidation frequent. From 2010 to 2015, the industry has experienced a -0.3% growth rate. However, it is projected to grow 1.3% by 2025 (Ibisworld, 2010). The industry is unattractive. 4. Fixed costs to value added Fix costs are high and economies of scale are possible in the industry. Value-added trended upward until its high point in 2003 of $25,924.3 million, but has since fallen to just over $23,038 million. The industry is at maturity and rivalry has increased, making the industry unattractive (Ibisworld, 2010). 5. Intermittent overcapacity As of 1985, the 6 major competitors in the brewing industry were operating at an average of 83% capacity. The brewing industry has been plagued with overcapacity issues in the past (Ghemawat, 1992). Rivalry is increased. 6. Product differentiation Firms differentiate their products in this industry through advertising, segmentation, and packaging. Advertising helps firms reach critical thresholds of exposure, while segmentation increases market share (Ghemawat, 1992). Brewers can differentiate their products by segments, but also can use brand, ingredients, and style. The degree of differentiation makes the attractive (Datamonitor, 2009b). 7. Growth of foreign competition To what extent are foreign firms able to penetrate the US market? If there is a growth in foreign firms penetration, this increases rivalry making the industry unattractive. It also shows that US firms are not being globally competitive. 8. Corporate stakes As of 1985, 84% of Coorss revenues came from its brewing division (Ghemawat, 1992). This increases rivalry, making the industry unattractive. 9. Exit barriers Firms in this industry could exit by converting operations to another product, or as shown by the consolidation of the industry, exit through merger or acquisition. Rivalry in this industry is high. Since the brewing industry is so highly concentrated and unbalanced, the major firms in the industry have very similar strategies and compete for similar niches. This makes the overall industry attractiveness low. IV. Conclusion After analysis of the items above, conclusions can be drawn about the brewing industry. A. Critical Success Factors There are a number of critical success factors for this industry: Economies of scale are a necessity to be profitable in the industry. Firms must have production facilities that are large enough to spread the fix costs of production out of millions of barrels of product. These facilities must also have high capacity to deal with demand fluctuations. Second, firms must have strong, differentiated brands that fit into multiple segments. Finally, a strong distribution network is imperative to obtaining sales levels. B. Prognosis Entering into the brewing industry would be a uncertain venture. There are many barriers to entry for small firms such as microbreweries, such as economies of scale and capacity. The brewing industry is projected to contract, but the major players will continue to jockey for market share (Ibisworld, 2010). Competitive forces have contributed to consolidation in the past and likely will in the future, as smaller firms merge with larger ones, in order to better compete in the industry. Part II: Firm Analysis I. Current Situation A. Brief firm history Adolph Coors brewery was founded in Golden, Colorado in 1873. After surviving the prohibition era of the 1920s, Coors would become very successful. After the repeal of Prohibition, Coors sold 90,000 barrels of beer. It also began expansion with its introduction of wholesalers outside of Colorado, in Arizona, and eventually 9 other states. The size of the company would increase exponentially. By 1960, Coors sales volume reached 1.9 million barrels, 7.3 million by 1970, and finally 12.3 million by 1974. In 1975, the Coors family offered non-voting stock to the public (Ghemawat, 1992). More recently, the Adolph Coors Company became the parent company through a merger with Molson, a Canadian brewing giant. Coors would begin numerous ventures and partnerships, most notably, a joint venture with Miller Brewing to form MillerCoors in June of 2008 (Datamonitor: Coors). Today, the company operates 18 breweries and distribution centers over 30 countries. The US segment operates 8 major breweries with a capacity of 85 million barrels annually. The brands sold in the US are Coors, Coors Light, the Blue Moon line, Killians, Keystone, and Molson among others. Molson operates Coorss Canadian operations with 6 breweries. Coors also sells around 9 million barrels in the UK (Datamonitor, 2009c). MillerCoors currently controls 29.1% of market share, behind industry-leader Anheuser-Busch with 50.1%. Coors broad portfolio of over 40 brands allows it to reach a wide range of market segments (Ibisworld, 2010). B. Strategic Posture The current vision of MolsonCoors is to be a top four global brewer in profitability, fueled by our people who are committed to delivering exceptional results and creating extraordinary brands (Molson, 2010). The mission statement was not stated anywhere. The first portion, to be a top four global brewer in profitability is quantifiable through revenue. The last 2 parts are more difficult to measure, though Coors does have a large portfolio of successful brands. II. External Environment (Opportunities and Threats) The findings of the above industry analysis apply specifically to Coors in the following manner: A. General Environmental Factors The issues that affect Coors more heavily are the issues of product differentiation to meet consumer needs, and also the capacity and efficiency factor. The opportunity to market their products more extensively is important to Coors. B. Task Environment The Rivalry factor is currently affecting the level of competitive intensity within the brewing industry. Coors faces strong rivalry from Anheuser-Busch. They currently pursue very similar strategies, making competition strong. Currently Anheuser-Busch controls over 50% of the market share. As they compete for the same markets niches, it will be important for Coors to maintain competitive levels of advertising. Also, Coors has been efficient in their production capacities in the past, but as demand grows, they may need to make changes to keep up. III. Internal Environment (Strengths and Weaknesses) A. Management The Coors board consists of nine members, four of which are members of the Coors family. As of 1985, the Coors family continued to hold all of the voting stock (Ghemawat, 1992). Peter Coors became president of Coors in 1985. There was some dissent between the younger members of the board, including Peter, suggesting that had a differing vision for the direction of the company. It is implied that he thought it was necessary to add effective marketing skills to the manufacturing skills that the company already had (Ghemawat, 1992). B. Marketing Coors operates in every segment except for the low-price popular segment. In1985, Anheuser-Busch had a particularly strong product mix, much as Coors had, though Anheuser-Buschs market share was much larger. The most notable major competitors products were Anheuser-Buschs Budweiser, with 25.8% of market share, and Millers Lite beer, and High Life which together accounted for 17.5% of market share (Ghemawat, 1992). Coors pricing is appropriate for the market. There are no strong indicators that Coors pricing strategy is not competitive. In 1985, domestic producers supplied barrels at $67 each. Distribution is a major issue for Coors. In 1985, all of the major competitors except Coors functioned in all 50 states, but only had a median shipping distance of 300-400 miles. Coors was shipping their product 1,500 miles. Beyond this, their inefficient trucking system added 10-15% additional cost (Ghemawat, 1992). Finally, Coors launch of new products called for an increase in advertising. Coors silver bullet campaign proved successful, as Coors Light had become the 2nd best-selling light beer (Ghemawat, 1992). Coors spends less than the industry average for its promotional efforts. There is also statistical evidence that 90% of the effect of advertising is lost within one year (Ghemawat, 1992). Coors has not marketed itself as heavily as some of its competitors, which puts it at a disadvantage. It likely has much to do with the smaller size of Coors market share. C. Operations/Production Productivity improvement has been extremely important to Coors in its history. In 1985, Coors capacity utilization was above that of both the top players in the industry at 92%, which is high. The issues Coors is facing pertaining to distribution, and whether or not to open a new brewery would be a result of the firms re-invention. Growth through product development is important to Coors. It has six product lines in varying segments, indicating it is emphasizing product development within the brewing industry. At some points in its history, it was diversified outside of the brewing industry, but decided to focus on core competencies (Ghemawat, 1992). Coors benefits from high historical efficiency in production, and also strong brands that it can use to differentiate itself. D. Human Resource Management Unions have historically had little effect on the operations of Coors in particular, but they are present in almost every other firm in the industry. A strike during 1977, illustrated Coors lack of vulnerability to this threat (Ghemawat, 1992). E. Management Information Systems This section is not applicable. IV. Critical Success Factors This section will briefly outline how Coors is managing the critical success factors in its industry. Economies of scale are a necessity to be profitable in the industry. Coors Golden Colorado brewery is the largest in the industry, capable of producing 25-30 million barrels a year (Ghemawat, 1992). This production facility has allowed them to take advantage of economies of scale and spread the fix costs of production out of millions of barrels of product. Coors brewing facilities have historically had high capacity to deal with demand fluctuations, but future demand may prompt changes. Second, Coors has strong, differentiated brands that fit into multiple segments. Coors broad portfolio of over 40 brands allows it to reach a wide range of market segments (Ibisworld, 2010). Finally, a strong distribution network is imperative to obtaining sales levels. This is the aspect in which Coors is the weakest. Economics would dictate that an in-house operation would increase value-added, but Coors distribution network is not strong enough for them to realize financial benefit. V. Strategic Problem Management has failed to ensure the longà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ term survival of Coors because they have neglected the importance of strong distribution networks, and shipping expenses associated with proximity to markets, and of refrigeration needs. If Coors wants to successfully compete on a national level, like its competitors, it will need to boost the efficiency of its distribution network. VI. Strategic Alternatives Option 1 Construct an additional brewery in the eastern United States such as the location in Virginia. This brewery would serve the eastern United States, and add additional capacity to Coors overall. The pros of this option are as follows: It would reduce costs associated with shipping from the Golden Colorado site. Coors estimates a $2.50 saving per barrel if it would not have to ship its entire product the average 1500 miles. Although the brewing industry is not projected to grow, it would not hurt Coors to have more resources and capabilities, and not have to base their entire operation on the single brewery. The cons of this option are as follows: It would take a large investment to establish a new brewery, and maintain its production. A 5-million barrel brewery would cost $200-$250 million (Ghemawat, 1992). Option 2 A second option would be to begin focusing heavily on marketing. The numbers show that Coors is considerably behind their competitors in advertising spending as a proportion of sales. The company has strong brands that could perform better with additional promotion. The pros of this option are as follows: Increased brand awareness, and information about the varying brands that Coors produces will result in additional sales volume. Targeting advertising about certain product lines to certain target markets could increase penetration into market niches, and result in additional market share. The cons of this option are as follows: The additional costs of a national advertising effort will be high. ROI may be low because of statistical data from studies indicating that advertising in this industry does not create lasting impressions (Ghemawat, 1992). VII. Recommendation After weighing the alternatives and their pros and cons, it would be most beneficial for Coors to select strategic option one, and construct an additional brewing facility. If they were to select strategic option 2, and the effects of their marketing campaign were favorable, they may not be able to keep up with demand which would be disastrous for the company. It may take them too long to make the necessary expansions in time to capture the additional market share. Constructing another brewery would also serve to drastically lower shipping costs. VIII. Implementation There are a number of strategic steps that will need to be implemented. Coors will need to ensure that it has the necessary funds for completion of the project. If they do not have the necessary funds, they will need to be acquired through efficient channels. Second, the site will have to be purchased. Any local environmental or social regulations or preferences will need to be planned for. Construction of the brewery will begin. Finally, the project will need to be completed on time to meet projections of needed capacity from the brewery to satisfy the demand needs of the east coast. Necessary sunk costs will need to be maintained to aid in startup of the facility including provisions for raw materials and machinery, as well as beginning the brewing process. Finally, Coors distribution network will need to smoothly integrate the new site into the existing framework. The brewery will allow for additional production of all of Coors product segments, using the existing brand recognition and perceived quality that Coors brands have. The costs associated with shipping will be reduced drastically. Coors has an opportunity to further expand its capacity. Coors position within the industry is currently strong, but the company will need to take the necessary steps to facilitate growth. Fierce competition from Anheuser-Busch, the industry leader will only get tougher if Coors does not take a proactive rather than reactive stance. If the company follows the strategic recommendation above, it puts them in a good position to market themselves additionally, but only after they have the necessary capabilities. IX. Bibliography Datamonitor, Inc. (2009a). Alcoholic Drinks in the United States: Industry Profile. New York, NY. Retrieved April 19, 2010, from the Datamonitor Company Profiles Authority Database. Datamonitor, Inc. (2009b). Beer in the United States: Industry Profile. New York, NY. Retrieved April 19, 2010, from the Datamonitor Company Profiles Authority Database. Datamonitor, Inc. (2009c). Molson Coors Brewing Company: Company Profile. New York, NY. Retrieved April 20, 2010, from the Datamonitor Company Profiles Authority Database. Ghemawat, P. (1992). Adolph Coors in the Brewing Industry. Boston, MA: Harvard Business School. (Original work published 1987) History of Beer Brewing. (2010). Wine Making | Beer Brewing. Retrieved April 21, 2010, from http://www.winemakingbeerbrewing.com/history/history-of-beer-brewing IBISWorld, Inc. (2010). IBISWorld Industry Report 31212: Beer Production in the U.S. Washington, DC: Areeb Pirani. Molson Coors Brewing Company.

The Reality of War and Death Depicted in Owens Poem, Dulce Et Decorum

If we look at the history of the world with a kaleidoscope, we can see the different aspects of war and what effect it had on the mind of different people and artists such as poets, painters and authors. Many poets romanticized war, luring it with their pen and giving it a beautiful look by glorifying death and obliging young blood to fight for their motherland. For example the poems â€Å"Peace† by Rupert Brooke and â€Å"Fall In† by Harold Begbie painted war with the highlights of glamorous and sensation. Apart from poets there are also politicians who achieved their aims with the help of war and violence while others who used the weapons of non violence to achieve their goals. The most famous example is of Adolf Hitler who took the aid of war to conquer the territories. The media also has a great impact on the mind of the public, like newspapers, televisions, radios arouses the public’s interest and motivates the young generation to join the army and fight fo r the nation. However, there are artists who look at war in its very naked form. For example the poet Wilfred Owen in his poem â€Å"Dulce Et Decorum Est† demonstrates that no sweetness or honor is earned in dying for one’s country, instead humanity is taken away during war. In the first stanza Owen uses strong metaphors and similes to convey a meaningful warning. The first line, â€Å"Bent double, like old beggars under sacks†, describes the soldiers tremendous exhaustion. They have been brought down to a beggar’s level and are being compared to low society. To reinforce this the speaker says, â€Å"And towards our distant rest began to trudge† (3). Everything seemed farther and so the troops desire for relaxation and peace. Owen uses metaphors:†Men marched asleep. Many had lost their boots/B... ...Unlike other poets who glorified war and eluded people’s mind Owen brought the reality of war and death in front of people’s eyes. War is not just fighting for your nation and gaining victory, it is looking at death and inhumanity eye to eye and experiencing agony, suffering and reality. The name of heroes and heroism just remains in words but the reality is the inhuman situation faced during the war. In my opinion war is not a solution to all problems, there is no need for bloodshed, killing, violence and destruction. The problems, the difference of opinion and disputes can be settled by non violence, agreements and understandings. Mahatma Gandhi proved to the world that you can achieve your aim by means of non violence and peace. He rightly said: â€Å"I object to violence because when it appears to do good, the good is only temporary; the evil it does is permanent.†

Japanese Food †General Analysis and Comparison to American Food Essay

It is generally true that different countries have distinct cultures. The culture of a country is shaped by various factors unique to that country, directly affecting it during its historical development. An example of such factors is geography. The geographic nature and location of a country dictates what resources it may have; a country surrounded by water tends to depend on the aquatic life for food, while a country endowed with vast fields of fertile land tends to feed its citizens through harvested crops. As one can infer, the food source of a country is in a direct relationship with its culture. This concept in turn supports the development of unique variants of food, also defined as its local or traditional food. The United States of America and Japan, in this sense, are two vastly different cultures with diverse food variants. The American continent, although of course surrounded by bodies of water, has a vast land area which it is known for. This prompted the development of the country to be generally agricultural and crop-based. Hence, corn and potatoes are considered as its staple food. Japan, on the other hand, is considerably less in terms of total land area; therefore, the development of its agriculture is quite limited and crop variants held to a minimum. The whole population instead focused its attention on the sea as a limitless source of food. Such basic differences in food also result in additional variance to the details regarding it. Suggested food intake, nutritional claims, health claims are expected to be different to a certain extent between the two. Health issues are expected to vary as well. Hence, the American food culture and the Japanese food culture are expected to be distinctly different with consideration to these aforementioned points of comparison. Methodology In order to begin the analysis of the characteristics of the food from the unfamiliar Japanese culture, a direct sampling of Japanese food is required. Hence, the first major portion of the methodology requires that a restaurant serving authentic Japanese cuisine is to be located within the locality. After choosing one, also keeping in mind that the price range is well within the reach of the researcher’s budget, a sample Japanese dish is to be ordered or bought. If possible, the method as to how the dish is prepared should be properly observed and noted. The characteristics of the dish should also be considered and inspected. Specific details in terms of taste and appearance are to be listed down. If possible, the constituents of the dish or its basic ingredients are also to be identified. After assessing such details regarding a sample dish of Japanese cuisine, a more technical and research oriented approach towards analysis is to be started. The second main segment of the methodology pertains to the technical and research oriented part of the study. Specific details regarding the whole Japanese food culture are to be determined. Further research into the Japanese food culture and its historical development is to be accomplished. Further insights regarding the differences with the American food culture and standards will be provided by searching for the occurrence of a localized food pyramid as well as rules or guidelines for food labeling, health claims, and nutrient content claims. Also, health concerns regarding food in the Japanese culture will also be taken into account. The common health problems, its sources and effects, will be established. Resulting data from the two main sections of the research method gathered through such methods will be properly collated and completely analyzed afterwards. Results Upon locating a restaurant that offers authentic Japanese cuisine, a choice was made to order a highly popular and common Japanese specialty, the sushi. In this case, an unlimited amount of sushi was made available, each variant served in differently colored plates riding on top of a conveyor belt like mechanism. There were so many variants of sushi, making the process of identification more troublesome. Fortunately in this case, each plate was properly labeled. The first variant of sushi sampled is called the nigiri sushi. In physical form, the nigiri sushi mainly consists of hand-shaped rice with a single kind of topping per serving. This variant is however not simply a single kind as there were notable difference in toppings between servings. There were four main types of nigiri sushi served; one type had squid as topping, the second had shrimp, the third had raw fish, and the fourth was egg. Upon immediate sampling, the shrimp, and squid were notably very lightly cooked, if cooked at all. The thin slices of fish served as toppings were obviously uncooked. Also, no additional flavor was added to enhance the flavor of these two toppings. The egg however, was noticeably scrambled and sweetened. The rice below the topping, aside from being shaped, had no detectable additional flavoring. The second variant of sushi sampled was considerably more complex in both structure and appearance. Called as the maki sushi, this variant evidently had more ingredients. There were two main types of maki sushi sampled, futo maki and hoso maki. In both, a thin dried seaweed preparation, known in Japan as the nori, covers the outer area of the flat circular shaped sushi. Another common ingredient noticed for this variant is cucumber, sliced in small portions and apparently used fresh with no additional cooking procedures. Carrots were also noted to be present in both types, having been prepared in the same manner as the cucumbers. The last notable similarity between the two is the use of caviar. The nature and source of the caviar was not determined; the only detail noted regarding it was that it was commonly used as additional toppings or dispersed within the sushi. In terms of differences, the main distinguishing factor between the futo maki and the hoso maki is the inclusion of fish. Of the two, only hoso maki had slices of fresh raw fish, known to be commonly tuna, interspersed within the roll. As an additional note, the sushi variants were dipped in a mixture of Japanese soy sauce and a spicy paste known as wasabi, with the resulting ratio dependent on one’s preferences. After discussing the structure and constituent parts of the sampled dish in detail, findings regarding the taste are placed in focus. It is noticeable that the overall taste of the sushi alone is quite simple and plain, and at the same time pleasant and cool. It draws its appeal from the combined flavor of its parts. Such taste is expected since the parts used are neither seasoned nor flavored in any matter. However, upon the addition of the wasabi and soy sauce concoction, the sushi is given a stronger flavor, mainly a combination of salty and spicy taste. Upon completion of the sampling phase of the study, research was done to determine the historical context of Japanese food. Japan is one of the several island based countries throughout the world which is mainly surrounded by the sea, and along it also contains several bodies of water; hence, even from the early points of Japanese history, food is commonly gathered from aquatic sources (Minnesota State University [MSU], n. d. ). Since fish and other aquatic creatures such as shrimp, crabs, squid, octopus, and urchins, are commonly associated with the Japanese diet, people tend to think that the Japanese consume these exclusively. This however, is not the case in reality. The Japanese also consume various land grown products including well known ones like eggplants and carrots, along with rice which is considered as their staple food (MSU, n. d. ). Another subject of research conducted in the study is concerned with something more current: government issued guidelines and policies regarding the food industry as well as the presence of a food pyramid. Specific points analyzed include food labeling, health claims, nutrient content claims, and of course, the food pyramid. Details regarding food labeling, health claims, and nutrient content claims were not very much analyzed in this case, but rather, the focus was placed upon whether such policies exist. In terms of food labeling, it has been noted that a similar system exists in Japan in comparison to other countries such as America. In fact, there has been a movement by the Japanese government to further increase the scope of the law, making it considerably more stringent in comparison to those of other countries (Gale Group Incorporated [GGI], 2008). As for laws regarding health claims, Japan has a well-defined and extensive policy system, pointing out specific categories for health and nutrient claims and requirements for the application of companies for such claims to be approved for their product (National Centre of Excellence in Functional Foods [NCEFF], 2004). Japan currently has a well-adapted food pyramid. Commonly encountered food items in Japan are included as examples; some of these are rice, miso, honey, soy sauce, milk, soy milk, tofu, fish, clams, plums, and kelp (Southeastern Michigan Dietetic Association [SEMDA], 1998). The final aspect looked upon in the research was regarding the usual health problems accompanying the local cuisine. Given the fact that Japanese food preparations often utilize raw to lightly cooked seafood, parasitic organisms is a usual threat (Ransom, n. d. ). Examples of these parasitic organisms are worms which latch on to various areas of a person, usually the gastrointestinal tract, in order to provide themselves vital nutrients. Another problem arising from their preference towards seafood is the possible occurrence of heavy metals in the flesh of sea-based organisms due to global environmental problems (Ransom, n. d. ). Discussion The results point out evident differences and similarities between the American and the Japanese food cultures. First, regarding food preparation and taste, from what was observed with the sushi, Japanese food preparation is simpler in constituent and is also rather simpler in terms of preparation. The focus of the Japanese cooking is to maintain the natural form and flavor of the ingredients while blending well in combination. This is very much unlike the American way of cooking since the focus is usually to use a main ingredient and season or flavor it in a way that after being cooked for a certain amount of time, the food has acquired an enhanced taste. In relation to this, the Japanese cuisine has a preference towards the uncooked and seafood, while American cuisine focuses on cooking techniques and the use of beef, pork, and chicken. These differences mainly arise from the varied historical development of each country. In terms of the more technical side of food and its culture, specifically food labeling, health claims, and nutrient claims, due to the trend of globalization, it is quite understandable that in general, both Japan and America have law pertaining to food labeling, health claims, and nutrient claims. Differences on these are mainly observed when inspecting the specifics. Aside from this, both countries have food pyramids. The difference on this point pertains to the food examples written in the pyramid; the main structure and recommendations remain the same. Lastly, health issues and risks differ for both countries to a certain degree. The Japanese mainly worry about issues regarding contaminants and parasites due to seafood consumption, while the Americans worry about problems such as heart disease and obesity due to the way food is prepared. Conclusion The historical and geographic differences of America and Japan have led to a distinct difference in terms of their local cuisine. Japan focused on seafood as one of the main food sources unlike America. The staple food is also different for both countries, being rice for Japan which is rather uncommon in the United States. Hence, in relation to this, food-related heath concerns also differ for both countries. However, far from what is expected in terms of Japan and America being completely different, current trends in relation to globalization and exports have shown that in the subject of food in general, America and Japan have several points in common. These points mentioned laws and policies pertaining to food labeling as well as health and nutritional claims. Therefore, although different at various points, Japan and America evidently has certain points of close similarities in the general subject of food contrary to what is commonly thought of.