Langston Hughes: 3 Poems Essay

Expression of racial pride is a concept that has surfaced through history quite often. Due to the nature of colonialism, slavery and it effects, the idea of racial pride under pressure, with people creating their own racial identity within a different cultural setting, is often one of alienation and loneliness. During the critical eras such as the Harlem Renaissance and the Civil Rights Movement, we find the work and effort of many of the great African-American writers like Langston Hughes, whose work often covered the topics of racial pride and the outcry against racism and injustice. We will look at three of his poems which reflect a different aspect of the historical African-American situation. ‘Theme for English B’ This is a poem that explores the time when Langston Hughes was in college, and had to write about anything that came from the heart. In true style, searching in his soul, the poet finds an expression that reflects circumstances and perceptions that focus on the self, and existence as an African-American. Hughes runs through such normal activities such as going home and listing what he likes and what he wants. He raises an interesting crux then: I guess being colored doesn’t make me not like the same thing other folks like who are other races. So will my page be colored that I write? Being me, it will not be white. But it will be a part of you, instructor. You are white – (25-31) This is an interesting statement in that it draws the distinction between being white and being colored, a persistent issue that crops up often in racially oriented writing. It reflects on the instructor of the class being white and ‘instructing’ a colored man. Although there is no real evidence to support a cause for resistance or defiance to this, the fact remains implied that Hughes makes this distinction, but without promoting resentment, states that he likes what â€Å"other folks like who are other races† (26). The lines that follow reserves the right to have pride in being colored, without submitting to wanting to be what like other races. Hughes cements this notion in lines 32-38, stating a communal, patriotic element of cooperation: yet a part of me, as I am a part of you. That’s American. Sometimes perhaps you don’t want to be part of me. Nor do I often want to be part of you. But we are, that’s true! As I learn from you, I guess you learn from me – ‘Afro-American Fragment’ This poem comes from a period of Hughes’ life that explored the idea of Africans displaced from the African continent. He effectively simulates a sense of longing by drawing from the idea of an unexplained feeling, of songs that come from far away. He advances the idea that Africa leaves its imprint even long after the people have been moved from there, cementing the echo thereof with three lines (1-3, 21-23): So long. So far away Is Africa. Another interesting thing that he recalls here is the last line, 24, that expresses his connection or kinship with Africa, even after all the time separated: â€Å"Dark face.† Hughes promotes the idea here that, although the African-Americans find themselves becoming culturally part of American society – in some form or another, the call of Africa had imprinted itself on all the African-Americans who could trace their history to the dark continent, leaving an permanent effect. â€Å"Democracy† With this poem we find Hughes focusing on the essence of democracy, of the system that is supposed to uphold the freedom and individual rights of every human being, irrespective of skin color. This poem draws strongly on the period of American history demarcated by the Civil Rights Movement, and Hughes is quite firm in his sympathetic beliefs here, stating rights equal to that of any other human being. This is expressed most clearly in lines 5-9: I have as much right As the other fellow has To stand On my two feet And own the land. The essence of land can be compared to the idea of African-Americans having been displaced, taken from their past and their homes. Equal rights would entail that African-Americans would also be able to own land in America and thus become part of American society – be part of the collective whole, just as every other American is, regardless of skin color or race. The urge to compel their rights, and the struggle that would invariably be necessary, is encapsulated in lines 15-18: Freedom Is a strong seed Planted In a great need. Hughes furthers and finalizes the argument of equality, the demand to be heard and accepted, as well as the need for individual freedom not based on race through lines 19-21: I live here, too I want freedom Just as you. In closing The contributions made by Langston Hughes, not only in poetry but also in other forms of writing, have become a written testament to the troubling times that African-Americans underwent before they finally secured the equal rights they sought so hard to achieve. Hughes reflects every facet of growing up and living as an African-American in a marginalized, mostly white environment. The poems discussed show Hughes’ pride in his race, and his refusal to submit and be subverted. Where there is a fairly everyday feel to ‘Theme for English B’, we find a core focus that explains unity, rather than forcing division by showing that white and black Americans are so very different. In ‘Afro-American Fragment,’ Hughes explored the unconscious aspects that shape the longing of African-Americans, the yearning back to Africa, and in ‘Democracy’ we return again, with a little more force and directness, to the issue of equality and integration. It should be argued though, as Hughes was wont to point out, that this integration would not be accomplished through subversion, but on terms that make space for the African-American, or any other race to thrive and flourish in a unified, collective whole, without prejudice or injustice.

Koutons Retail India Limited Essay

The company went public in early 2006 and thereby became Koutons Retail India Limited (KRIL) with effect from June27, 2006. KRIL is primarily an integrated apparel manufacturing and retail company in India. They are in the business of designing, manufacturing and retailing under the brand names Koutons and Charlie Outlaw. Their main target customers are middle class consumers who are keen to trying out new fashions falling in the age group of 22 – 45 years. Find below a brief timeline of Koutons. 1991- Started as Charlie denim jeans showroom 1994 – Incorporated as Charlie Creations Pvt. Ltd 1997 – Diversified in non-denim apparel, awarded with Best Menswear Collection 1998 – Brand Koutons was launched 2002 – First exclusive brand outlet of Koutons opened 2006 – IPO. Name changed to Koutons Retail India ltd in June 27, 2006 2007 – Listed on BSE and NSE Koutons Financials Koutons has reported the fastest growth in its sales and profits among its listed and closest peers partly due to a smaller base. The Company’s restated total income and profit after tax were Rs 4036. 17 million and Rs 344. 87 million respectively as of and for the year ended March 31, 2007 compared to Rs 1583. 85 million and Rs 131. 8 million respectively as of and for the year ended March 31, 2006. (Exhibit 1). Koutons do not have any stock option scheme or stock purchase scheme for the employees of the company. Industry Overview The Indian retail sector, which is believed to be at an inflexion point, is valued at USD 270 billion (2006) with Food and Grocery being the dominant sector followed by clothing, textiles and fashion accessories which contributes nearly 9. 5%. The organized retail sector on the other hand has grown with a CAGR of 30% and stands at about USD 12. 4 billion (2006) which is only 4. 6% of the total retail market thus demonstrating its huge future otential. In the organized retail sector the major share is held by the clothing and accessories sector (39%) growing at a rate of 30. 3% during 2005-06, followed by food and grocery (11%). The Indian apparel retail industry(which mainly consists of sale of all menswear, womenswear and infantswear) grew by 12. 3% in 2006 to reach a value of $20 billion (INR 880. 9 billion); the CAGR growth for the period 2002-06 being 11%(Exhibit 2). The share of the organized apparel retail has grown steadily to reach 18. 9% in 2006. Considering an anticipated CAGR of 10%, the apparel retail industry in India is expected to reach USD 32. billion by end of 2011. Fuelled by strong economic growth, favorable demographics, easy availability of credits, availability of retail space, rising level of disposable income, rise in dual income families and shift of life style pattern, organized retail in India is expected to grow tremendously in the next few years. The emergence of the mall culture in India acts as catalyst in this growth story. By the end of 2007 approximately 68 million sqft of mall space is expected to come in India, majority being equally shared between North Zone (39%) and West Zone (33%). According to a 2005 KPMG retail survey report, the Specialty and Super Market format have the highest potential for growth (45%) followed by Hypermarkets(36%) and Discount Stores (27%). In terms of opening up of new retail outlets, the apparel retailers and brands attained a growth of 113% in 2006 compared to 84% in 2005. As on 2006, major share in the Indian apparel retail market is accounted for by Menswear (45%), followed by Womenswear (36. 1%), Infantswear (18. 8%). While the Menswear has witnessed a growth of 12% by value and 3. 9% by volume, Womenswear has grown 14. 9% by value and 5. 4% by volume. Almost comparable growth has also happened in the Infantswear sector (11. 5% by value and 3. 8% by volume). Competitive Landscape in Apparel Retail Porter’s Five Forces Model The competitive nature of the Indian apparel retail sector can be very well analyzed using the famous Five Forces Model as suggested by Michael Porter. Fig: Porter’s Five Force Model Bargaining Power of Buyers The bargaining power of buyers becomes weak because of three main reasons. First, majority of the buyers are individual consumers and hence has limited purchasing power. Second, the retailers can very easily differentiate their products. Third, only the retailers can provide the consumers with a wide variety of quality products. On the other hand, the fact that buyers have very low switching cost and retailers are obliged to act according to buyer needs provides the buyer with some bargaining power. Infact, it is believed that in Indian apparel retail, brand loyalty exists mostly for the brands and less for the retailers. Bargaining Power of Suppliers The sourcing happens mostly from the clothing manufacturers and the wholesalers. The manufacturing industry is highly fragmented in nature inducing a price war. Low product diversity on the part of the suppliers reduces the switching cost for the retailers. However, the only drawback of moving to a low cost supplier might be the threat of not being able to live up to the highly volatile trend of changing fashion. Entry Barrier Entry barrier is comparatively low, like any other retail sector. The industry itself is highly fragmented and requires low capital investment. The policy taken by the Government to open up the retail sector to foreign investments will definitely encourage entry of other foreign players. Threat of Substitutes We can identify three major threats to the apparel retail. First, with e-buying becoming popular with every passing day there may be an opportunity of buying directly from the manufacturers. Homemade apparels though can be a substitute has a very low threat mainly because of the ever changing fashion needs of the generation and the substantial increase in disposable income. The last and the biggest threat for substitute come from the sale of counterfeit apparels. Competitors The Indian apparel retail industry is highly fragmented in nature. Within the readymade segment there are both branded and unbranded players. There are many foreign brands that have established themselves successfully in the Indian apparel retail market using different channels. While brands like Allen Solly and Arrow have taken the licensing route, Benetton have entered the market through tie-up with domestic players. Again brands like Tommy Hilfliger, Mark’s and Spencers and Speedo have taken up the franchisee channel. On the other hand, Metro entered the market through cash and carry wholesale trading route. The private labels, by virtue of providing higher margins to the retailer and lower cost to the customers have also become extreme popular. Some of the well known private labels are John Miller, Bare and Stop. Although competition in the retail apparel segment is heating up, the inherent advantage of Koutons model – backward integration, positioning and first mover advantage – is not easy to replicate within a short period of time. On the back of the company? s aggressive rollout plan and diversification to high-margin segments, the company enjoys better valuations than its peers like Kewal Kiran and Zodiac Clothing, although not strictly comparable. There are approximately 23 major players in the branded apparel retail segment in India with Koutons coming next to Raymond Ltd. Exhibit 3 ; 4). Pentagon-Triangle Model Koutons mainly works on pentagon model. The key attributes of the pentagon model fit as follows: Place Size and Location: Out of 999 exclusive brand outlets (EBOs as Aug 20, 2007) 531 EBOs were present in northern region. West and east India has about 29 and 38 stores respectively. Koutons has o ver 1000 company managed stores and 18 manufacturing units. By August 2007 they owned 14 warehouse facilities spread around Gurgaon. They are present mainly in northern and north western region. By March 2006, there was no presence of Koutons in southern region. They have started slowly moving into southern region. Layout and Design: Koutons generally operate through a franchisee model. Traditionally, Koutons outlets used to store men? s apparel. But recently they have extended their product portfolio to include women? s and kid wear as well. Generally, the size of a Koutons outlet ranges from 1000 sq feet to 2000 sq feet; variations happening depending on the location, real estate rates and host of other factors as well. Their flagship stores have a size of 3000-5000 sqft. Koutons outlets may be single storied or multi storied. The outlets are generally spacious and display caters to need of middle class Indian customer segment. (Exhibit 5: Koutons EBO, Calicut). Product Style and Fashion: Go with latest fashion trends. Mainly target high fashion aspirants of the age group 22-45 years. If any type of fashion becomes obsolete, still Koutons tries to attract customers, but ultimately if situation does not improve they also stop keeping such fashioned garments and go with new trends and fashions. Assortment: Wide variety of men? s wear including shirts, trousers, jeans, jackets, T-shirts. Limited variety of kids and women? s wear. The assortment also depends on region. An EBO in north India might have little different assortment compared to one in south. Value Price: Low brand value. It sometimes offers 70% discounts which have diminished its brand value to a large extent causing a barrier in the way of moving up the value chain. Koutons follows a unique discounting policy wherein they claim to give a discount of x% + y% which is often criticized as a marketing gimmick and a way to mislead the customer. For example, a discount of 50%+40% often gives the customer the impression of availing a 90% discount – whereas effectively it means a 70% discount. Quality: Mixed conception among customers. Most people think its product quality goes down with increase in discounts. It has failed to maintain same quality of products throughout its EBOs across all regions. People Service: Koutons mainly deal with men? s apparels. But recently have started making garments for women also. Knowledge: For managerial position they mainly look for experienced people (at least 2-3 years of experience in apparel business). Climate: Koutons generally stocks apparel which are all-weather. Few varieties differ with region, e. g. sweaters are stocked in north EBOs but not in south. But most of the stock can be sold in all weathers. Communication Positional: Koutons have positioned themselves as „„value for money, but high on fashion†. They mainly target pro-fashion customers who are very much willing to try new fashion trends at nominal prices. They often offer attractive discount policies to attract middle class fashion minded customers. T heir target customers belong to age group 22 to 45 years. Promotional: Koutons mainly advertise through newspapers and they have a well designed website. They incur minimum advertising expense and rarely goes for any celebrity endorsement. Their presence in 450 cities of India is believed to have created an automatic brand visibility. Business Processes The two major business processes at Koutons are Manufacturing and Sales operations. The diagram below shows the processes involved in manufacturing. Some of the key differentiating factors involved in the business processes are : Procurement of raw materials: Procurement of raw material from India, China, Taiwan and Italy using third party suppliers. Third party manufacturers: To cater to the growing demand for outsourcing of manufacturing is also done. For this, the Company has executed 211 agreements with 211 fabricators. Manufacture of production sample: A product sample is produced in house according to the specifications provided for the range of products for a particular season. The first production report is prepared on the basis of this sample. All apparent and intricate corrections are made in the sample so as to make it error free. Accordingly, a detailed production plan is devised. Fabric cutting and stitching: A layout for cutting the respective products is done with the help of CAD plotter machines. Sales and distribution The company has a dedicated â€Å"Sales and Marketing† team which consists of 90 employees. Competitive Strengths The key strengths of Koutons are: ? Exclusive brand outlets ? Wide network of retail stores ? Low-cost sourcing capabilities (diminishing the cost of material as well as that of the final products hence resulting in low cost products) ? Proper brand positioning (identifying the proper target customer segment and meeting their requirements) ? Expertise in designing and merchandise (core competency) ? Efficient management ? Wide apparel range (customers can choose their required things from a well chosen stock) ? Efficient utilization of IT and making it a differentiating factor compared to other retailers. Koutons always follows proper strategic planning before taking any business decision. They are planning to increase their geographic penetration by increasing the number of brand outlets to distant areas, enhancing manufacturing capabilities, targeting new customer segments. Positioning the Koutons brand strongly (exporting apparels under the brand name), making potential mergers and acquisitions and most importantly constantly improving the cost structure. Some of the key differentiating strengths of Koutons are described in detail. Exclusive Brand Outlets: The majority of the apparel manufacturers cum retailers in India operate through a combination of retailing through exclusive outlets, national chain stores and multi brand outlets. This entails supplies being managed directly and through distribution agents. Koutons operate on a model of marketing apparel directly through a chain of exclusive brand outlets and thus are independent of external marketing pressures attributable to the national chain stores, multi brand outlets and other intermediaries. This enables them to focus quality maintenance and customer satisfaction without the interference of any external agency. This model also enhances the brand equity and recall as the shelf space on each of the exclusive brand outlets is controlled by company. In the process, Koutons has developed a greater brand visibility and an identity of its own and has thus reduced the chances of brand dilution. As of August, 2007, the â€Å"Koutons† brand was sold through 566 exclusive brand outlets and the â€Å"Charlie Outlaw† brand was sold through 433 exclusive brand outlets. The wide coverage of exclusive brand outlets from metros to tier II towns and through the various regions in India, allows them the flexibility to hedge against fashion changes given the general time lag in fashion trends between metro and tier II towns. The table below shows the growth in number of Koutons EBOs. The company? s brands are marketed through three outlet models ? Company owned / leased and company operated (COCO) ? Company owned / leased and franchisee operated (COFO) ? Franchisee owned / leased and franchisee operated (FOFO) The company had 17 outlets, 124 outlets and 858 outlets under COCO, COFO and FOFO models, respectively, on 20 August 2007. To accommodate all EBOs (Exclusive Brand Outlets) the company is also looking for spaces for extension. It has been allotted a manufacturing facility in Gurgaon at a total project cost of Rs 301. 85 million. Koutons has benefitted heavily by following a franchisee model as often large scale operation as theirs often becomes tough to be controlled by themselves alone. Also it helps Koutons in availing real estate easily. Besides, the franchisee owners bring in entreprenual energy to the business. This model has also helped Koutons in tackling to some extent the inherent attrition problem in the retail sector and cut down on loses happening due to staff related pilferage. Koutons, in the process, has also realized cost cutting by relieving themselves of the responsibility of bearing the social security liability of the employees. Koutons franchisee model is different from its peers as it offers its franchisee minimum guaranteed payments covering lease rentals, employee costs, and other establishment costs apart from incentivized sales. Products are consigned to the franchisees, who do not bear the inventory risk except for pilferage–the risk of unsold stock remains with Koutons. The company collects a security deposit (bearing nominal interest rate) from the franchisee towards the apparels that the latter stocks at the outlet. This model is highly attractive for franchisees who seek security and low investment, which is reflected in the rapid ramp up as well as the fact that franchisee churn rate has cumulatively been less than 1. 5 per cent since inception. Koutons has planned to expand their franchisee retail model to other products like home linen and furnishing and toys. Integrated player with low-cost sourcing capabilities: Koutons is an integrated apparel manufacturing and retail company with capabilities across the entire value chain of manufacturing and retailing. One of the major strengths includes in-house finishing facilities and rigid quality controls. Extensive logistics and supply chain management systems is put in place to maintain maximum flexibility, which enables them to meet needs in an efficient manner without relying on any one vendor, factory or country. The centralized purchasing system helps in achieving the standardization in quality control systems. Their involvement at every stage of the value chain has helped them successfully cut down on the intermediary costs. Unique brand positioning: Koutons positions itself as a „High Fashion Value for Money? brand. The â€Å"Koutons† brand is positioned in the middle to high fashion segment, offering a complete range of man? wardrobe (in the age group of 22 to 45 years). The â€Å"Charlie Outlaw† brand is a casual brand targeted at fashion conscious youngsters in the age group of 14 to 25 years. Foreign brands mostly target a niche market while Koutons cater to mass market. Koutons score over foreign brands in terms of fit and size they offer to Indian cons umers. Design and merchandising expertise, with a pulse on fashion: A team of designers and merchandisers who are supported by a staff of 40 professionals, including assistant designers and technical designers. Specialized design teams for each apparel categories are formed. Wide apparel range: A wide apparel portfolio which ranges from shirts, non denim trousers, denims, suits, blazers, T- shirts, cargos, capris, sweaters etc. It has also recently launched a range of apparel for women and children. IT Infrastructure: Until now Koutons has been using a specially developed computerized system (customized) to keep all records related to sales and inventories. To keep pace with the market competition and to make its operations more efficient, it has recently started using an enterprise resource planning system using advanced computer systems with the help of Ramco systems. This advanced system will help them to reduce inventory related problems (such as decreasing the inventory lead time, planning delivery schedules better), improving transparency and reducing redundancy. State of the art information flow system to maintain records relating to sales and inventory and integrate key work flows. In 2006 the company also installed a state of the art enterprise resource planning system. The company has been working on enhancing its IT capabilities for better management. This has helped it to bring down the average inventory days from 213 in FY07 to 202 in FY08. Huge sales per store due to hefty discounts offered by the stores. Weaknesses ? COFO model problems: Opening up manufacturing as well as retail outlets needs huge capital investments and hence limits the company? s ability to expand fast, as well as react to the changing market scenario. ? The company is not able to distribute from the multibrand shops and malls. This shuts it off from a major business opportunity and capitalizes on the retail revolution. ? Inventory problem: 340 days of inventory in an apparel industry where demand is seasonal. (Poor inventory turnover) ? Low Brand Value: Koutons stores only stock their own brands and perennial 70% discounts have completely eroded its brand value. This will prevent the company to move up the value chain. ? Concerns due to the nature of its business, Koutons finds large sum of money blocked up in the form of working capital. In FY08, working capital amounted to almost 68 per cent of annual sales which is on the higher side in retail sector. Acquisitions On January 2008, the Board of Directors decided to acquire 51% or more share in Touchwood International Pvt Ltd. , a Rs. 5 crore company and the owner of the brand „Upper Class?. The company has its presence in the ladies segments. „Upper Class? has its major presence in Delhi and has a strong foothold in the ladies garments segment. The brand specializes in casual bottom wear for women and has its presence in Multi brand outlets (MBOs) like Shoppers Stop, Pantaloons and Globus. Besides, it has its presence in the European market as well. Wh ile the acquisition will definitely give Koutons an exposure to the European market, it will help „Upper Class? gain a retail presence in the domestic retail market. Koutons has planned to open up 400 outlets of „Upper Class? by 2010. Expansion Koutons earlier was exporting Koutons and Charlie brand apparels to the Middle East. But it was halted in 2004 in 2004 as a part of the management strategy to focus more on the domestic market. But now that it has made its mark in the domestic market, it is actively trying to tap the exports market by 2008 with a view to target the Indian population in the Middle East region. It has initiated talks with large retail networks based in West Asia, whereby it plans to open 30 EBOs each of Koutons and Charlie brand by 2009. Koutons plans to enter the market through the route of Joint Venture wherein the majority stake will be retained by Koutons. While the designing, branding and production will be done by Koutons, their local partners will manage the supply chain and logistics. Koutons has already earmarked Rs 40 crores for rolling out the stores. Their first outlet is planned to come up in Dubai by 2008. The other cities under consideration are Abu Dhabi, Sarjah, Doha and Qatar. They also have plans to enter the Chinese market by 2008 and enter the European market very soon. All these would definitely provide the company with immense global visibility. Going Forward The company is aggressively rolling out its EBOs in southern India. Koutons would be enlarging its product portfolio in FY09 by adding categories like accessories and handbags for women along with belts for men and footwear collection for both men and kids by 2008. It is being done with a view to increase the footfalls in the outlets and thereby assist cross-selling and also to make it a one-stop-shop. The company has plans to introduce a new line of women? wear (Les Femme brand) and kids? wear. Koutons plans to open up 150 Koutons Junior and 200 Les Femme stores by 2009-10. To lessen the risk of stock obsolescence, the company has been deploying the strategy of shifting the unsold stock from metros to tier III towns to leverage the time lag in fashion trends between metros and tier III towns. For the year 2008-09, Koutons has planned to grow through the ladies wear and kids wear segments whi ch though being high margin segments are currently being dominated mostly by the regional players. Koutons plans to revolutionize these two segments by providing value for money products – which all throughout have been their core competency. The entry of foreign players in the Indian apparel market has one hand brought the threat the increased competition and on the other hand has increased the fashion awareness amongst the Indian population. However, which target mostly target the mass market can avoid direct confrontation with the foreign players who are more into niche segments. With the rising inflation and increasing cotton price, Koutons definitely has a challenge in their hands in the years to come.

Essay for high school Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

For high school - Essay Example As I moved on to the kindergarten, I was not less fearful as the atmosphere was more formal than Pre- Kindergarten. I did not wanted to join the kindergarten as I found it isolating and formal. As I joined Kindergarten I started associating with other children and became playful and less concerned about home and parents. But when the time for elementary school admission arrived I started to feel nervous, agitated and anxious. I was terribly scared about the admission procedure and questioning of the teachers. It was due to the support and comforting of parents I could overcome the fear. I prayed a lot on the admission day and convinced myself that everything will be alright.Once I completed my admission successfully , my confidence level increased and was less fearful of admissions. However I was less familiar with summer camps and was afraid of leaving home and school. When my mother encouraged me and explained me about its brighter side I got excited. Once I joined the summer camp, I understood how much fun it was. By the admission time of junior boarding school I was completely confident and positive of admissions and got through it easily. My passion for travelling has been evergreen, since childhood I was thrilled by the idea of visiting new places whether it is a nearby beach, the east of Korea or Hawaii. Every year I made it a point to travel to a destination and I believe in St. Augustine’s words that â€Å"The World is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page†. Traveling the world inspired me enormously and Egypt was the country that astonished me with its Pyramids and hieroglyphs and since then I was attracted to ancient civilization. Egypt moved me unlike any other country with its distinctive culture, climate and scenery. As I had an interior view of pyramids, I was amazed by its architecture and could not help imaging the strength and brilliance of ancient Egyptian people. Thought it was harsh summer I failed to get

Developing management Skills Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Developing management Skills - Essay Example Mentoring as a method of leadership is also addressed as well as the means to stimulate employee motivation to delegated task assignments. A strategic directive has been issued by senior leadership determining that streamlining departmental operations has become necessary not only for cost objectives, but for enhancing communications within the business facility. It has been determined that the operational manager must research methods in which to design a better materials management system. Realistically, strategic directives from senior executives mean nothing without efficient middle managers who are able to design the systems and carry out the plans (Moss Kanter 2004, p.150). In such a situation, the manager must design a rational decision making model to assess the situation, make programmed and non-programmed decisions regarding new systems implementation, develop alternative measures, and accomplish the goal using employee/management resources. Assume that through needs analysis, the manager has determined that the most logical course of action is to implement an ERP system (enterprise resource planning) designed to combine the entire firms electronic functions into a single software programme on the same database. Such a project is a tremendous undertaking and involves skilful coordination between multiple departments. Senior leadership has not yet agreed to the new ERP system, has offered concerns about potential budget constraints, and expects continuous progress reports from the operational manager in regards to proposed implementation. The responsible manager must address the specific characteristics of management decision making including uncertainty, risk, conflict, scope and crisis (Gomez-Mejia et al 2005, p.241) and be able to effectively communicate these issues in order to receive senior-level approval for the proposed project. As part of the upward feedback process, the manager must create a frame for his message that orients the

Reason, Faith and Logos Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Reason, Faith and Logos - Essay Example As part of discussing the arguments made by each author, this study will present some self-evidence and/or empirical evidences behind the claims or arguments of each author. Comparison between the Philosophical and Theoretical Views on the Nature of Logos Plato was one of the great Greek philosophers in our history. Inspired by the theories of Parmenides, Plato mentioned that the term â€Å"logos† is a Greek term which means both the spoken and unspoken thoughts and reasoning that are rational by principles (Hillar, 1998). Since the era of Heraclitus, Audi (1999) revealed that the philosophical view of logos eventually became the basic philosophical theory of order and knowledge. The study of theology is focused on analyzing issues related to religion. As an essential part of the 1st century Jewish religious beliefs (Boyarin, 2001), the nature of logos is very much focused on revealing the truths. Given that the â€Å"logos† of theology is based on religious concept, Pl atonic defined logos as the divine â€Å"soul of the man Jesus Christ† (Basic Theology, 2012). It means that theological â€Å"logos† is all about thinking and uttering the word of God. Unlike the philosophical point-of-views, the Greek term â€Å"logos† (when based on a theological perspective) is simply referring to the act of speaking God’s words (Brent, 1999). It means that the nature of logos under the theological point-of-views is based on theological reasoning rather than pure rational reasoning. Conclusion that Boyarin (2001) Aims to Establish Published under the Harvard Theological Review, Boyarin (2001) wrote the article entitled â€Å"The Gospel of the Memra: Jewish Binitarianism and the Prologue to John†. In this article, the author thoroughly discussed the nature and significance of logos based on the views of theology (i.e. Judaism and Christianity) and philosphy. Unlike in Christianity which considers Jesus Christ as the son of God, Boyarin (2001) mentioned that the Deity is considered as the ultimate form of god. Regardless of whether or not a specific religion considers a Deity or Christ as the creator of this world, it will remain a fact that the logos of theology will always be associated with the reasoning of God. On the contrary, the logos of philosophy is not based on religious concept but rather based on the reasoning that is currently being used to govern the world. In other word, the philosophy of logos is not purely based on the teachings of God but more on a set of rules that people are obliged to observe when living in a particular society. Conclusion that Hillar (1998) Aims to Establish Hillar (1998) wrote the article entitled â€Å"The Logos and its Function in the Writings of Philo of Alexandria: Greek Interpretation of the Hebrew Myth and Foundations of Christianity†. According to Hillar (1998), Philo’s concept of logos is not clear because of his religious and mystical point-of-v iews. Since Philo’s religious views is very strong, God is considered as the ultimate goal whereas logos is considered as the â€Å"wisdom of God† (Hillar). Referring to God’s chief messenger, logos serve as the link between the human creatures in this world and God. Within this context, it means that the divine logos will allow the human

Critically analyse the value of Roche's dramatological dimension Essay

Critically analyse the value of Roche's dramatological dimension perspective in helping us to understand the meaning of megaevents - Essay Example Another disadvantage is the threat f terrorism. First and foremost, a number f studies have shown that any city bidding for the Olympic Games is normally benefited with better infrastructure including new transport systems, latest media and communication's equipments and high standard sport facilities. For example, according to Gerlin, Sydney, where the Summer Games 2000 was organised, has been left with an expanded airport, a large number f main roads upgraded, and especially new and high standard sport facilities including the gigantic Telstra Stadium ( 2005, 54). Besides, the Games usually gives the host city an incentive to transform itself that otherwise might never have been attempted (Burton, 2003, Internet). This may be illustrated by the Barcelona 1992 Games. Gerlin mentioned that before bidding for the Games, insufficient road access, airport and coastline was what this city tackled. However, the Games created opportunity for Barcelona to be financed with ambitious projects. As a result, after the Olympics, Barcelona re ceived a noticeable new appearance such as new seafront, underground roads, and become one f the most favourite tourist destinations in Europe ( 2005, 52, 53). The second advantage is the increasing ability to obtain greater economic growth. ... For example, the report f PriceWaterhouse Coopers about the business and economic benefits f the Sydney 2000 informed that the Games helped NSW earn $3 billion in business outcomes, over $6 billion from tourists spending during 2001, received more than $6 billion f investments and so on (New South Wales Department f State and Regional Development, year unknown, Internet). Such changes may create more job opportunities, increase business income, raise Government budget and encourage economic activities. In support, those benefits mentioned above may be the reason why Barcelona experienced such a significant growth that doubled every year from 1986 to 1991 (Preuss, 2004, 65). Finally, bidding for the Games is an extreme opportunity for any city and country to enhance its national pride and image due to its increases in international exposures, found out by the KPMG Peat Marwick studies (Toohey & Veal, 2000, 209). Concurrently, Preuss proved that the Games is the quickest and most effective way to show the major changes in the hosting country to the world economy. For instance, South Korea was able to replace the image f a developing country by a modern and high technology industry thanks to staging the Olympics. Another important example is the case f the Sydney Olympics 2000. Young and Rubican found that before the Games, foreigners often considered Australia as country f great source f raw material. However, after the Olympics, the image f Australia has been changed in to a "friendly, fun and trust worthy" tourist destination (Preuss, 2004, 20, 48). It should be noticed that those increases in the world's level f awareness about the host country are rea lly important, because not only do they attract a vast number f future

Ethics and Philosophy in Religion Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Ethics and Philosophy in Religion - Essay Example ction†¦Ã¢â‚¬ 3 Thus, it is the art with which one is able to retrieve information and learning that sets one apart from simply recalling or remembering. In order for learning to take place, one must have a source from which to draw upon knowledge. Once this is achieved, recollection is attained. Thus, knowledge has a purpose and a direction which can be analyzed through various means. This is the nature of knowledge. [150 words] Part II. Method/Hermeneutics. Seventh-Day Adventist4 theology is unique. Seventh-Day Adventists’ theology approximates a movement with apocalyptic overtones. Adventists’ hermeneutics, or interpretational theory, stems from the books of Daniel and Revelation, which are both books of the Bible that deal with prophecy. Seventh Day Adventists are particularly concerned with prophecy and how it relates to the interpretation of the sacred text of the Bible. Basically, the main ideas that characterize Seventh-Day Adventism has been carefully analyzed. The way the Bible is interpreted by people within the religious culture of Seventh-Day Adventism is very specific. The theme of the end times reoccurs often, more often than not, in the hermeneutics of the Seventh-Day Adventists. The main hermeneutic regarding the book of Daniel deals mainly with the foreshadowing of the coming of Christ. The main hermeneutic regarding the book of Revelation deals mainly with the symbols associa ted with end times and the impending return of Christ. [150 words] Part III. Method/Hermeneutics. The Seventh-Day Adventist hermeneutic is continued to be discussed in this section. The interpretational theory of the Seventh-Day Adventists depends largely on the text being evaluated or analyzed. In the case of Seventh-Day Adventists, the text that is mainly focused upon—usually, but not always—is Revelation. This is because a large part of Seventh-Day Adventist theology usually focuses upon the up-and-coming return of Christ to earth in order to

Memo and sales letter Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Memo and sales letter - Assignment Example I urge that you To employ humanity in dealing with the issue. I also would like to take you back to an issue that occurred 2 months ago where Jane Sanders, another employee, was forced out of her parking space by male employees under threats of physical abuse. The company appeared not to accord the occurrence the seriousness it deserves. Although the male employees have been reprimanded, I feel that was not at all due appeasement to the harassed employee. Furthermore, Mrs. Sanders did assert repeatedly that some of the male employees in the incident in question have made inappropriate passes at her in the past. This brings the focal point of that particular case not only to gender inequality but also sexual harassment. I would like to remind the company of the country’s constitutional provisions for gender sensitivity. The constitution provides that female members of the workforce be treated in a just and fair manner as the male members of the workforce. An oversight of this is therefore liable to legal complaint. It is only after this assertion is taken into account that the situation will be remedied. An assurance from the Human Resource department that the issues above will be handled with the utmost solemnity and reassurance of our safety in the workplace will go a long way to instill change. This would be the first, among many steps to remedy the crisis. Our company is extremely appreciative of the time that we have been able to serve you. We are honored that you have chosen us as your product provider. The last time you wrote to us you had a challenge with the gear that you purchased. I believe that the issue was well taken care of by our repair and maintenance team. Kindly get back to us and inform us whether you were fulfilled with the results. Our customer service team will review your recommendations depending on your response. We take great pride in being able to learn from our most valued and loyal

China has a vision to develop into an innovation-oriented society Essay

China has a vision to develop into an innovation-oriented society. Significant efforts have been put into promoting and driving - Essay Example As a result, the Chinese economy has to a large extent come to rely heavily on innovation to ensure that its economy keep running and there have developed many unique ways through which this innovation has come to be encouraged and manifested by its government. China is fast transforming into one of the economic hubs of the world and this may perhaps give it the impetuses to not only become the world’s leading economic, but also political power. In order to achieve this, however, China must continue to encourage the innovation that is an essential part of its economy, because without it, then this country is more likely than not to fail. One of the factors that have contributed to the development of innovation in the Chinese economy has been its government’s support for those women who would like to get into the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. This is something that is still quite uncommon in the rest of the world and because of this, China can be said to be a leader in the gender balancing within its economy. This has ensured that innovative ideas have been developed on an equal basis within the economy, especially in those areas that have been traditionally dominated by men (Li 2012, p.1496). While this is the case, there has been a recognition that while the government policy on gender balance has largely worked to bring women into those fields within the economy that involves innovation, more still needs to be done to ensure that even more women are interested in them. In order to increase the diverse pool of innovation, the Chinese government tends to adopt policies that encourage its people to have an interest in the technological fields. This is while still young so that when they get to institutions of higher education; they will be able to compete effectively in matters of innovation with the rest of the world (Chen and Tjosvold 2002, p.48). China Efforts Promoting and Driving Innovation in Medical Field and I ts Impact China is one of the most respected countries in the world when it comes to medical innovation and this is based mostly on the fact that medical care is provided in a highly individualized basis. The treatment of various diseases that are encountered is a highly individual thing because the doctors conducting such treatment have to consider the needs of their patient before deciding on how best to tackle the disease. In China, the plan for treatment is normally created by the physician who takes a wide range of factors into consideration before deciding what the best scheme is for their patient. Among the factors that Chinese physicians consider before making a treatment plan are the following: they type of disease that is to be treated, the part of the body that has been affected, the state of development of the disease, the age of the patient, and lastly, the overall health status of their patient. While it is the responsibility of the doctor to make a treatment plan for their patients, in the Chinese healthcare facilities, the patients also have a say in it. The physicians have to put into consideration the wishes of their patients concerning the treatment they would like to have. Therefore, it has become an essential part of the Chinese treatment for physicians and their patients to discuss the

Art History Midterm Essay Example for Free

Art History Midterm Essay The tomb painters were more of artisans than they were artists in ancient Egypt. The reason for this is they didn’t typically come up with the ideas for what they were painting in the tombs; they were told what to paint and painted it. Artists would have had free range on what to paint rather than being told what to paint exactly. Artisans are more the people who can actually paint someone’s idea who might not be able to design or paint the idea given. 2. One rationale reason for cave paintings in prehistoric times, that I have heard and agree with is that they painted these things on the walls in hope that the creatures would come so they would have food among other things. One particular example would be all the paintings in the Las Caux cave in France; it is a cave entirely full of images of bulls. Bulls or bison were a source of not only food but probably clothing and they could use other parts of the body for various things. These animals were extremely important for their culture to survive. I believe they painted them on the walls not only to honor the creatures for all they did to help their people but also as wishful thinking. It’s the whole â€Å"if you build it they will come† idea, if the people painted these animals maybe something miraculously would help their hunting season better. This theory helps show how they believed in gods and looked for help from a higher being just like we do now. 3. During ancient times goddess statues were extremely popular all over the then world. One of the most famous goddess statues is the Venus of Willendorf. She is the very first goddess statue that has been found and dates back to 24,000 bce. She is a very small pudgy statue with and large female areas; her face is not there and is replaces with grooves. The statue has no feet and cannot stand on its own. The way that the statue was created shows the importance of fertility and women by not only the enlarged breast but the wide hips that would be of assistance when it comes to giving birth. They most likely used this little statue to wish new couples luck when it comes to reproducing and it was a fertility statue. Modern day has a much different view on our â€Å"goddess† culture. People nowadays look up to Barbie dolls and stick thin models and celebrities. So much has changed since then. The prehistoric times and even up until more recent times believed that fuller women were beautiful and even that it showed wealth. I think that our culture looks up to the wrong people when it comes to our versions of a â€Å"goddess culture†. One Mesopotamian civilization that I like is Babylon. It was a land in the Fertile Crescent between the rivers like most civilizations in that time period. They had one of the most influential and important leaders, Hammurabi, who came up with one of the most well known set of laws or Hammurabi’s code. Babylon also was the home of one of the Seven Wonders of the World the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. Babylon was a very well set up society and really changed the way people governed their civilizations. They were one of the first cultures to write down their set of rules and stick by them through thick and thin and that was entirely new. Question 1: When it comes to restoring artwork it is a tricky subject. I think that they should restore art but not add anything to it because it makes it a different then it was originally portrayed. I think restoring the art so it is in full form is ideally good because we want future generations to see the pieces of art the way they were meant to be viewed. I mean yes, it is using a lot of time and a lot of hours to be fixing something that is broken and old, but it’s our history. If these artifacts were not there we would have no look into our past and how people lived. People should fix up old paintings, statues and buildings because not only is it part of history but it’s incredible to see how people could build such magnificent things without the technology we have today. It makes people appreciate what they have now and all the advances we have gone through. When it is 300,000 years from now and out pictures and buildings are slowly falling apart we would want someone to take their time and interest to fix up something that we once held as a huge part of our lives and our society. If the paintings, statues and buildings were built and built so beautifully they were made that way for a reason. Art is art and I think we should do everything humanly possible to keep this world as beautiful through the decades as it was meant to be when they first were displayed.

Customer Satisfaction in Nokia

Customer Satisfaction in Nokia Marketing is a comprehensive term and it includes all resources and a set of activities necessary to direct and facilitate the flow of goods and services from producers to consumers in the process of distribution. Businessmen refer marketing process as distribution process. Human efforts, finance and management constitute the primary resources in Marketing. Marketing encompasses all activities of exchange conducted by producers and middlemen in commerce for the purpose of satisfying consumer demand. Marketing Management is responsible for organizing, directing and controlling all marketing activities included in the process of marketing. Marketing consist of a set of principles for choosing target markets, identifying consumer needs, developing wants. Satisfying products and services and delivering value to customers and profit to the company. More successful companies owe their success to practicing a thorough customer orientation. They make consumer needs the basis of company opportunities. Definition of Marketing P. Kotler defines marketing as the set of human activities directed at facilitating and consummating exchanges. The essence of marketing is exchange of products and the transaction is to satisfy human needs and wants. The American Marketing Association defines marketing as the performance of business activities that direct the flow of goods and services from producer to consumer ABOUT CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: Customer satisfaction, a business term, is a measure of how products and services supplied by a company meet or surpass customer expectation. Today in the customer driven economy, all firms are engaged in a rat race to attract customers build long term relationships with their customers. The key to customer loyalty is customer satisfaction. A satisfied customer will act as a spokesperson of the companys product and bring in more customers. All the efforts put in by the marketer in the end comes down to satisfying the customers. Customer satisfaction, a business term, is a measure of how products and services supplied by a company meet or surpass customer expectation. Certain ways in which customer satisfaction can be achieved: Undertaking the needs of the customer. For defter customer satisfaction a firm has to correctly determine the need of its customer. The best way to understand their needs is through collecting the opinion of the customer and finding out what they really want. Fulfilling the needs of customers. To a customer a product represents bundle of expectations. If the performance of the product falls short of expectation, the customers are dissatisfied. So a firm must try to fulfil the needs of the customers. To study the customers demand in the market. Customer demands are continuously changing. It can rise or fall. Therefore the firm should be careful and be able to satisfy the customer demand. Good quality products The firm should always be able to satisfy the customers by providing them with good quality products and be able to maintain the quality of the goods. Good service at purchase point and after sales service. Good quality services are helpful to increase the satisfaction level of the customer. Good after sales service prevents dissatisfaction, frustration and ill will among customers. It can also build up and maintain seller goodwill and better company image. STATEMENT OF PROBLEM: To find out if the customers are satisfied with services offered by NOKIA and also to find out if they have any problem with the services. Finally get the customers view on NOKIA services and also how to bring about improvements OBJECTIVES: To track customers attitude towards NOKIA To find out customer satisfaction with respect to the services offered by NOKIA To find, if the services are rendered on time to the customers and to find out if the customers would want any change in NOKIA marketing strategy SCOPE OF THE STUDY: The scope is to study the Customer Satisfaction on the Services provided By NOKIA in UK. It looks at the general satisfaction levels of the customers of NOKIA. It also tries to find out how long the customers has been associated with NOKIA, the research also seeks to provide the company with suggestions for improving the services provided by them and also provides information to the company about the rising competition faced by them. DATA COLLECTION TECHNIQUE Data collection instrument is an instrument through which data is collected as accurate as possible. It should be easy to use convenient for obtaining data and the researcher should find it easy to gather accurate data using this instruments used in research are- QUESTIONNAIRE: These contents a set of question which are all the people respond back by answering question choice answers. It is the most common method. MAIL SURVEY: This instrument is a questionnaire but it is sent by mail and response is also obtained by Mail, However, the response could be low. Apart from this there are also other mechanical or electronic devices which are also used for getting data. INDUSTRIAL PROFILE About the company Nokia Corporation (NYSE: NOK) is one of the worlds largest telecommunications equipment manufacturers. It has since established a leading brand presence in many local markets, and business has expanded considerably in all areas to support customer needs and the growth of the telecommunications industry. Nokia also produces mobile phone infrastructure and other telecommunications equipment for applications such as traditional voice telephony, ISDN, broadband access, professional mobile radio, voice over IP, wireless LAN and a line of satellite receivers. Nokia provides mobile communication equipment for every major market and protocol, including GSM, CDMA, and WCDMA. SWOT Analysis of the Company: Nokia Strengths: Nokia has largest network of distribution and selling as compared to other mobile phone company in the world. It is backed with the high quality and professional team in the HRD Dept. The financial aspect is very strong in case of Nokia as it has many profitable business. The product being user friendly and have all the accessories one want that is why is in great demand making it No-1 selling mobile phones in the world. Wide range of products for all class. The re-sell value of Nokia phones are high compared to other companys product. Weakness: Nokia has many strengths and some weakness. Some of the weakness includes the price of the product offered by the company. Some of the products are not user friendly. Not concern about the lower class of the society people. Not targeting promotion toward them. The price of the product is the main issue. The service centers in India are very few and scare. So after sales service is not good. Opportunity: Nokia has ample of opportunity to expand its business. With the wide range in products, features and different price range for different people, it has an advantage over the competitors around. With the opportunity like Telecom penetration in India being at the peak time, Nokia has an opportunity to increase its sales as well as the market share. As the standard of living in India has increased the purchasing power of the people as increased as well Threats: Nokia has many threats to tackle to maintain its position as market leader. The threats like emerging of other mobile companies in the market. The companies like Motorola, Sony Eriksson, Cingular (U.S) etc. these companies have come to the stand of tough competition with Nokia in the field of Mobile Phones. Threats can be like providing cheap phones, new features, new style and type, good after sales service etc. So, Nokia has to keep in mind the growing competition around. Nokia has to make strategies to tackle problems in the present and the near future. The growing demand of WLL network can cause drop in sales for Nokia, as Nokia provides many less CDMA phones to the customer.

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn :: essays research papers

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is a timeless American classic which set the tone for all other American literature to follow. The story opens up a window into the life of the American People before the Civil War. The lessons that this book presents can give the reader a deeper understanding of what existence was like along the Mississippi River over two hundred years ago. This is a novel which is full of thrilling adventure; personally, I enjoy adventure, which is the reason why I chose this book. Throughout the story there is constant exciting activity, there simply is never a dull moment in this book. Friendship, honesty, deceitfulness, and racism are all main issues all through this book. The characters face problems with ethics and morals along with the stereotypes of their society. The complex connections between race, culture, politics, and morality are made vivid in this story.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn starts out with a brief description of the previous book, The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. Both boys stole twelve thousand dollars in the previous book; each boy got six thousand a piece. Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer are both young boys growing up before the Civil War along the Mississippi. Both boys are mischievous but Tom is the one with all the plans, he reads a lot which gives him these ideas, which are fairly eccentric. Huck Finn does not live with either his mother or his father, in fact he seems to fear his father which he refers to as ‘pap’, he lives with a widow who takes care of him and makes him act very proper. It is thought that Huck’s pap is dead but Huck believes that he is alive and will come get him eventually.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  The first adventure that Huck has is with Tom Sawyer and a group of other young boys who band together to form a robber gang, all under the influence of Tom Sawyer. Their mission is to rob people and then kill them, however none of this ever happens and the gang soon breaks up.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Shortly after the gang splits, Huck’s evil father comes back and takes him away from the widow. Pap takes Huck into the woods and makes desperate attempts to get the six thousand dollars which Huck owns. Luckily however, Huck gave it the bank manager, Mr. Thatcher for safe keeping. The beatings that Huck’s father gives him become unbearable, so Huck finally decides to run away.

Why People Use Natural Bridges Park :: Study Ecology Environment

Why People Use Natural Bridges Park Perhaps it was being born to two hippy children but I find myself making excuses to trek over Highway 17 just to spend hours of my time taking in all the wonders of nature the town holds. One place that I have found that holds so many of the wonders is Natural Bridges State Park. From the trails, the natural bridges and tide pools, down to the monarch sanctuary, the park holds a plethora of nature's precious delights. The trails that wind through this park are breathtaking in many ways. Natural Bridges sits on 65 acres of coastal land in Santa Cruz, California. As the trails wind, the untouched beauty of wetlands and meadows are exposed within the park's interior. Many coastal birds and other creatures find sanctuary from the harsh surrounding environments while giving visual pleasure to bird watchers and natural scientists of the like. The trails are gracefully laid out around the land in order to maintain the harmony between human beings and nature. Moore Creek runs peacefully through the wetlands and under the trails as it makes it course to the sea. Taking these trails is one of the best ways to catch all the hidden secrets that exist inside the park. Once you make it down to the ocean, a spectacular natural bridge greets you as it wades in the waves below. As the tide flows out, amazing sea stars, sand dollars, and other shore dwellers become visible in the remarkable tide pools. This is one of the main ways children can learn about plants and animals hands on. If timing is right and you look out at the ocean you might catch migrating whales or seals playing with each other while searching for a meal. There is no end to the mystical creatures that pass through the parks perimeters. Another wonder of nature that I find most enchanting is the monarch butterfly. These migrating butterflies fly to this Natural Preserve, the only one in California, to take shelter from the harsh winter. They nestle in the eucalyptus trees in huge clusters to stay warm. They usually arrive in October and are off again in March. The park knows how important it is to protect these butterflies and they have constructed a beautiful viewing area that allows you to get an intimate view without damaging their habitat.

Mercedes Lackey :: Free Essay Writer

Mercedes Lackey Dear Mercedes Lackey, You probably get letters from people everyday who say what I’m gonna say, but oh well. See, I am a huge fan of your work, and just recently got told to write a LAL (Letters about Literature) for one of my favorite books, and since I didn’t feel like writing to the judges on your Dragons Bane Trilogy, I decided I would write my letter as if talking to you. As I said before, we have to write a letter explaining our favorite book, so, to explain the Dragons Bane book , I guess I should tell what made it the best. First, of course, it was written by you, my all time favorite author, and also it’s fantasy, which is my favorite genre, but it goes deeper than that, too. It deals with the characters, all of them. I can relate to them so well it’s amazing. I mean with the main girl, let’s say Lila’s her name , godz, we could be twins, except my ears don’t point in the slightest and I don’t have green eyes, but that’s besides the point. In mind, we are practically one in the same. We both are extremely determined and rebellious at times and quite curious all the time. We also both hold a love for animals that is almost second to nothing else. And we’re both tremendously loyal to most of our family. Now, she can mindspeak which I can’t, and she also has magic abilities, which of course I don’t, and I’m real, and she’s not, but you get the point. In essence we are related I guess is what I’m saying. There’s also her â€Å"older brother†, ( I’ll call him Jeff since I can’t remember his name either) the dragon who raised her. It seems as if I’m related to him, too. He’s definitely got a knack with animals, which I’ve already said I have. He also is kind, to everyone, and amazingly enough, that’s another trait I try (key word here; try) to possess since reading this book. But he’s not as close to me as the girl, I have no idea why, except maybe because he’s a he, or he’s a dragon, or he’s not the main character or whatever else differs between them, but he could really be an older brother to me. Then of course, you can’t have a brother without a sister, and you provide one of those, too, one that fits my little sister exactly, actually.

Dr. Pepper

Dr. Pepper is a soft drink marketed as having a unique flavor. The drink was created in the 1880s by Charles Alderton of Waco, Texas and first served around 1885. Dr Pepper was first nationally marketed in the United States in 1904, and is now also sold in Europe, Asia, Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand (as an imported drink).Described the taste of Dr Pepper as one-of-a-kind, saying, â€Å"I've always maintained you cannot tell anyone what Dr Pepper tastes like because it's so different. It's not an apple, it's not an orange, it's not a strawberry, it's not a root beer, it's not even a cola. It's a different kind of drink with a unique taste all its own.†Target MarketHis section describes the customers you are targeting. It defines their demographic profile (e.g., age, gender), psychographic profile (e.g., their interests) and their precise wants and needs as they relate to the products and/or services you offer.Unique Selling Proposition (USP)Having a strong unique selli ng proposition (USP) is of critical importance as it distinguishes your company from competitors. The hallmark of several great companies is their USP. For example, FedEx’s USP of â€Å"When it absolutely, positively has to be there overnight† is well-known and resonates strongly with customers who desire reliability and quick delivery.Pricing & Positioning StrategyYour pricing and positioning strategy must be aligned. For example, if you want your company to be known as the premier brand in your industry, having too low a price might dissuade customers from purchasing. In this section of your marketing plan, detail the positioning you desire and how your pricing will support it.Promotions StrategyThe promotions section is one of the most important sections of your  marketing plan and details how you will reach new customers. There are numerous promotional tactics, such as television ads, trade show marketing, press releases, online advertising, and event marketing. In this section of your marketing plan, consider each of these alternatives and decide which ones will most effectively allow you to reach your target customers.Online Marketing StrategyLike it or not, most customers go online these days to find and/or review new products and/or services to purchase. As such, having the right online marketing strategy can help you secure new customers and gain competitive advantage.SLIDE Pepper DietDr. Pepper's latest product is an â€Å"it's not for women† soda called Dr Pepper Ten. The product, unlike zero-calorie diet sodas, has 10 â€Å"manly† calories, as shown in its ads featuring a metallic gray can. Its target audience is younger males whom the makers of Dr Pepper believe are turned off by zero-calorie diet sodas but are still concerned about caloric intake.

Manchild in the Promised Land Essay

The majority of Negroes during the time of Douglass and Washington spent their lives in the fields, gutters, and ghettoes of America. They continue to do so today. Two recently published autobiographies clearly indicate that Negro degradation and deprivation are confined neither to the South nor to earlier times. Claude Brown provides dramatic accounts of life in urban Negro slums. Both are highly readable, although Williamson’s seems less complete and less authentic. Brown tells the story of â€Å"Sonny,† a Harlem â€Å"corner boy† who went to college. His childhood and adolescence included chronic truancy, prolonged friction with his parents, gang fighting and assorted delinquencies. Sonny was intimate with personal danger and suffered severe bodily harm. He was well known to the courts and the youth correctional houses. Although Sonny’s childhood and adolescence appear to have been those of many Harlem youth, he was spared the fate of many of his friends: violent death, permanent body injury, demoralization, and fanaticism. Claude Brown’s account of his experiences growing up in Harlem in the 1950’s indicates it may be equally prevalent in a metropolitan setting. One of Brown’s friends 1965: 425) asserts: The time I did in Woodburn, the times I did on the Rock, that was college man . . . Every time I went there, I learned a little more. When I go to jail now, Sonny, I live, man. I’m right at home. That’s the good part about it . . . Now when I go back to the joint, anywhere I go, I know some people. If I go to any of the jails in New York, or if I do a slam in Jersey even, I still run into a lot of cats I know. It’s almost like a family. (425) For Brown and many of the revolutionaries, the slogan of black power seemed to have this content: †¢ Negroes, by themselves, must assert their political and economic power through such methods as the creation of all-Negro political parties such as the Black Panther Party. Coalition with whites is either impossible or undesirable, for it would undermine Negro dignity. Integration with whites should not be a paramount goal. Rather, Negroes should strengthen their own separate culture and society: â€Å"black is beautiful. † At some future date, if a Negro so chooses, he might integrate with whites. Negroes must affirm their unique identity, learn of their African heritage, and identify with the â€Å"colored† peoples throughout the world. White society is both oppressive and decadent. Negroes should not fight â€Å"the white man’s war† in places such as Vietnam. Violence, at least in self-defense, can and should be used by Negroes to achieve their goals. While Negroes are a minority in America, they can count on the support of Asian and African peoples. American man is now an urban man and he was recently a rural man. It would be strange if the psychological shock of trying to find streets as natural as fields or woods did not provoke savage explosions in the cities. Claude Brown’s brilliant examination of Harlem, Manchild in the Promised Land, showed just how much of the black ghetto’s barbarism came from the sudden transplantation of sharecroppers from shacks to tenements. Robert Kennedy was using more than a politician’s rhetoric when he stated before his murder: ‘We confront an urban wilderness more formidable and resistant and in some ways more frightening than the wilderness faced by the Pilgrims or the pioneers. ‘ Being labeled a troublemaker is a danger of growing up in suburbia as well as in the slums, but the suburbs are more likely to provide parental intervention and psychiatrists, pastors, family counselors to help the youth abandon his undesirable identity. It is much harder for the inner-city youth to find alternatives to a rebel role. Thus it is in the slums that youth gangs are most likely to drift from minor and haphazard into serious, repeated, purposeful delinquency. It is in the slums, too, that young people are most likely to be exposed to the example of the successful career criminal as a person of prestige in the community. To a population denied access to traditional positions of status and achievement, a successful criminal may be a highly visible model of power and affluence and a center of training and recruitment for criminal enterprise. As Ward (1998) describes it: Among the social institutions which delineated black urban associational life, the one most closely related to the vocal group was the street gang. Sometimes the groups and the gangs even shared the same membership. In Baltimore, Johnny Page of the Marylanders doubled as a member of the Dungaree Boys gang, while Julius Williams had dual affiliations as a battling member of the Shakers and as a balladeer with the Royal Jokers in Detroit. â€Å"Julius Williams was the terror of the school†, recalled his classmate Woodie King. â€Å"He was sixteen. He enjoyed fighting teachers and singing in class†. When Claude Brown returned from a juvenile detention centre in upstate New York in the early 1950s, he noticed that many of the old gangs from his Harlem neighbourhood had turned to doowopping in the wake of the Orioles’ inspirational rise from a Baltimore street corner, via an appearance on Arthur Godfrey’s CBS radio show Talent Scouts, to national celebrity (Ward 59) One of the most consistent patterns of emotional concern expressed by the disadvantaged child is for potency or power. His heroes are the strong, invincible men, such as Hercules or Superman. We could speculate that the interest in Greek mythology expressed by disadvantaged pupils is also related to this concern. As a result, we would like to see the schools investigate, with the children, the power concept. This is a possible study topic for even the earliest grades. Can people be strong in ways other than physical strength? The teacher might begin by asking the youngsters who their neighborhood heroes are–who are the â€Å"top cats† on their block–and then asking why they are so. We would guess that the responses will probably be in terms of physical strength. The objective then, would be to help the class begin to explore other routes of power. Staging points for such discussions might be derived from reading excerpts from the powerful autobiography of Claude Brown, Manchild in the Promised Land, the author’s experiences growing up in Harlem. 6 The most direct method, however, to help children feel greater potency is to let them experience it. A way that combines such experience with the improvement of writing skills was demonstrated by one of our teaching interns. In a seventh-grade English class, required by the curriculum guide to study paragraph skills, the teaching intern asked the class, â€Å"How many of you can remember any of the things you had to read in school when you were in the third grade? † Some hands went up, and names of books were reported. â€Å"How did you like them? † Claude Brown’s memories of post-war Harlem churches similarly stressed their extra-religious appeal. He attended one simply because he lusted after the preacher’s daughter and fondly recalled Father Divine’s 155th Street Mission, not for its spiritual nourishment, but because he could get all the food he could eat there for 15 cents. Brown also appreciated that the black churches of Harlem were commercial, as well as religious, enterprises. At Mrs Rogers’ storefront church, he recalled, â€Å"people jumped up and down until they got knocked down by the spirit, and Mrs Rogers put bowls of money on a kitchen table and kept pointing to it and asking for more†. (27-8) Works Cited Brown, Claude. Manchild in the Promised Land. New York: Macmillan, 1965. A youthful autobiographical account of modern life in a black ghetto of New York Bukowczyk, John J. â€Å"†Who Is the Nation? â€Å"-Or, â€Å"Did Cleopatra Have Red Hair? â€Å": A Patriotic Discourse on Diversity, Nationality, and Race. † MELUS 23. 4 (1998) Corbould, Clare. â€Å"Streets, Sounds and Identity in Interwar Harlem. † Journal of Social History 40. 4 (2007) Koelling, Holly. Classic Connections: Turning Teens on to Great Literature. Westport, CT: Libraries Unlimited, 2004 Nelson, Emmanuel S. African American Authors, 1745-1945 A Bio-Bibliographical Critical Sourcebook. Westport, CT: Greenwood Press, 2000. Nelson, Emmanuel S. , ed. African American Autobiographers: A Sourcebook. Westport, CT: Greenwood Press, 2002. Sampson, Benjamin W. â€Å"Season Preview 2004-05: A Comprehensive Listing of Productions, Dates and Directors at TCG Theatres Nationwide. † American Theatre Oct. 2004 Shafton, Anthony. Dream-Singers: The African American Way with Dreams. New York: Wiley, 2002. Sixty Years of Great Books by African-Americans. † Ebony Nov. 2005 Ward, Brian. Just My Soul Responding: Rhythm and Blues, Black Consciousness, and Race Relations. London: UCL Press, 1998.

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Mentors comes off as unreasonable and a brutal killer. He starts off by presenting himself as kind of knowing his motivations and his strive for good will. Since he mentions positive characteristics, Fortunate indicates the care for his death. Fortunate could have done something so awful that it merits the action that Mentors takes. 2. As the story goes on, the setting changes profusely. The setting changes along with the action. In the beginning, the story has a lot of Irony and light. The action sakes place In the middle of a carnival.Carnivals usually have a happy and fun setting. Later, we start seeing how dark and evil Mentor's plans are which Is dark and literal. When the story changes to underground Into the catacombs and the pile of bones resembles the action and give strength on the object of Mentor's evil. 3. Mentors is the protagonist because he is the narrator and main character. He is evil minded and murdered Fortunate. The protagonist usually is the main character and t he hero, but Mentors is the main character and is not a hero. Fortunate is the antagonist because he amplifies the mystery and suspense. . The similarities of the two stories could be a mental disorder drawing them to the necessity for evil. â€Å"The Black cat† 1 . The narrator feels condemned and guilty, though he is not guilty for killing his wife and Pluto. This says that he is a cold hearted man. He is evil and had a desire to kill. The narrator feels guilty about hurting his cat, Pluto, and cutting its eye out but he does not feel bad about abusing all of his other animals and his wife. This tells us he gives more personality to his cat than to his own wife and cares more about the one cat. 2.In the beginning of his marriage, he and his wife got along very well and he loved animals. But then, the man started drinking and his personality changed for the worse. HIS personality changed as a result of â€Å"the Fiend Intemperance. † HIS was heavily drinking. As days went by, the drinking got heavier and heavier and he became meaner. He then threatened to physically abuse his wife. When the their loyalty to him. In the end of the story, he had killed all of his animals including his favorite cat, Pluto. 3. Yes, this fear is Justified because he sees a white mark on the body of the cat that resembles the gallows, where hangings occur.This reminds him of his hanging of his favorite cat, Pluto. When the cat came around that looked Just like Pluto. He did not want to hurt another animal so he tried to stay away. He tried to axe the cat because he was so irritated. When the cat finally left, he felt better and free. It is Justified because he resisted killing it. 4. I do see similarities in this story. The similarities that came to mind was the temptation to have what their mind was set on causing them to do evil. The narrator must have a mental disorder as well because he drank away his problems and had a desire to kill without guilt.

Internet Banking Essay

Therefore, since U. K. consumers have used to browsing and shopping online, there are factors that U. K. mobile carriers should pay attention. The factors are to find and collaborate with mobile commerce providers so that they can boost the M-Commerce traffic and thus, revenue. The potential of conducting mobile commerce in the U. K. also bases on the facts that the country has many mobile subscribers. According to International Telecommunication Union (2006), U. K. has 61 million of mobile customers as of January 2006. If 20% of the customers (15 million users) are active subscribers of M-commerce with average spending $100 per month. Therefore, the market for mobile commerce in the UK is $18 billion per year. The condition highlight that mobile commerce is attractive service that mobile service providers like Vodafone must develop by collaborating with merchants and content providers (cp) that build the mobile commerce applications. The development of m-commerce is also backed up by the recent development on 3G (third generation) mobile technology that gives opportunity for subscribers to have faster access to browse internet via mobile phones and conduct m-commerce transaction. British Telecom, for example, estimates that in 2002 they have about 150,000 customers of broadband services that is potential to be the active users of mobile commerce (Verdin, 2002) Recent progress and invention in mobile and wireless technologies has caused the shifting paradigm shift from desktop computers to mobile devices. Recently, it is usual to find consumers using their Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), smart phones, and notebooks that strengthen the facts that business has gone mobile so that the consumers can do all things over wireless gadgets the same with doing by desktop computer (Intel, 2004). The improvement in mobile devices capability also attracts customers to buy new phones and new customers segment that also target teenagers. This condition becomes issues for telecommunication companies and content providers to develop new killing applications besides voice communication that will increase the corporate revenue. The new application is data communication that comes in many forms. Concerning data communications, this paper has discussed several issues/challenges and opportunities in UK mobile telephone industry. To be specific, the point of discussion is about the development of mobile commerce (M-Commerce) that takes advantages of increasing number of mobile users and the development of computer technology. References American National Bank. (2001). Internet Banking Features & Benefits. Retrieved December 13, 2007 from http://www. americannationalbank. com/i_features. cfm Arthur D. Little Int. Gmbh. (2001). Key Success Factors for M-Commerce. Presentation for Berlecon Research

Salem Trials Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Salem Trials - Essay Example To defend themselves from the punishment and excommunication of their religion, they had to admit that they were unaware of what they have done and that some witch cast a spell upon them and made them do such kind of things. An act that was born out of curiosity and adventure now turned into a general crisis. Upon realizing this story, the authorities took action by demanding that the girls give out names, thus 19 people were accused. Similarly, history seemed to have repeated itself in the guise of cold war when the conflict between USSR and USA erupted. Due to ideological differences, the communistic Russia compounded several reasons to cause apprehension among Americans. Both countries began to question their subject's loyalty and considered everyone a threat to their liberty. In America, a massive hunt for communist began. The HUAC campaign of John McCarthy "expounded fiery anti-Communist diatribes in print and in the new medium of television" (Boyer. 1985). What started as mere rivalry of powers, turned into a dark cloud of suspicion above everyone, and so began the espionage mission to address the impending threat to national security. The arrest, prosecution and execution of the Rosenbergs started the massive hunt for treacherous act which denotes how suspicions play a role in one's decision over the inherent right to be heard and to live freely. The announcement of those who were suspected to have communi stic inclinations working inside the government extended far into the strata of prominent actors, producers, academes, and scientists, where no one was excluded and no amount of heroism and bravery could restrain its deadly repercussions. Likewise in this era, there was also this looming suspicion as to the possession of nuclear weapon, a powerful arm set for massive destruction and even to the demise of mankind. There are several angles whereby the Salem witch trial ran in parallel with, the Cold War and Arms Race, and this is most clear in the area of power, more particularly in the aspect of subordination and the exercise of authority. The central theme of this paper is to point out the aspects in which all three are parallel and why they are considered as such. The Parallels in the aspect of a socialist view The commonalities in Salem trials, the cold war and arms race, lies in the nature where the unfounded skepticisms triggered enormous abuse to mankind, denying the inherent right to live and defend life. The Salem witch trial is congruent to both cold wars and arms race is the sense that each of them demonstrates the manipulation of the subordinates without paying any consideration to the subject's inherent right. All three stories defines the American culture of conformity, whereby one is forced to align his or her ideals according to what the standards say or what is generally accepted to be correct. Conformity, dictates that one is forced to follow if one does not want to be an outcast. In the Salem Witch trial, everyone conformed to the standards of their religion and because the practice of witch craft is deemed heretic by the church, then everyone who violates this standard ought to suffer punishment. Not one of those young children who accused 19 people of heresy took their wor d back for fear. No one dared defended the innocence of the accused for fear of being committing the

Women of Troy Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Women of Troy - Research Paper Example The tragedy experienced in this play is one of a kind and perfectly blended to break even the coldest of hearts and melt them as butter melts before a hot iron. Euripides takes time to curve out the tragedy from the mythical Greek legends and out of it comes a masterpiece that can only be compared with Homer’s Iliad, verses from Sophocles and also Aeschlylus. It has been a Greek thing to write beautiful stories of heroes and gods but nothing beats the Greeks at bringing out emotions in people as such with tragedies. In as much as most of the former plays of those times used unskilled performers and actors, the Grecian playwrights such as Homer still drove the point home by employing numerous theatrical techniques to keep their audience satisfied and entertained (Kirk, 20). At the onset of the events of that led to the Trojan War, Athena, Hera and Aphrodite are seen to fight over the rights of the fairest of them all. Zeus, the king of all gods, send the three goddesses to the Trojan prince Paris who then chooses Aphrodite and in return she makes Helen the fairest of women in Sparta winning the heart of Paris, and what follows next is one of the epic battles to ever go down in the Grecian history and history of the world. It is from this epic battle that we get to learn of the Trojan women and their plights before and after the war. Hecuba, the queen of Troy, wife to Priam and mother to Hector and Paris, is the first one to enter the stage full of grief and lamenting for the deaths of his two sons and husband and the fall of Troy. Later on, after the news from the Grecian herald of woe Talthybius, enters the cursed Cassandra with the ability to foresee the future but otherwise incapable of wooing her adversaries to believe her and she later ends up dyi ng in the house of her Greek Patron. Then enters Andromache full of tears for her dead husband Hector and soon after her son is killed by

Leadership Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4500 words

Leadership - Essay Example In the financial year of 2012, the company recorded sales of $ 83.7 billion, the total equity of the company stands at $ 63.4 billion while the assets are to the tune of $ 132.2 billion. P&G Company changed the structure of their business in 2011 and formed two ‘Global Business Units’ that were further sub divided into ‘Business Segments’. From the new structuring, the company came up with the following segments; Baby care and Family Home Care, Snacks and Pet Care, Grooming, Fabric Care and Home Care, and Beauty Care (Baucus, 2011, p.18). This new structuring was proposed for easier channelling of the products to the market for marketing enhancement purposes, considering the management of P&G and the staff, the board of directors comprise of eleven members that manages the company with the CEO, chairperson and the President of the company being A.G Lafley. The company is one of the 500 fortune companies and was in 2008 considered top one hundred employers in Canada, the Company is also a member of the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (Watt 1998, p.13), this company operates in most of the continents including manufacturing operations are based in Africa, China among others (Canedy 2012, p.17). Company’s Analysis As indicated in the introductory part, P&G also is an American multinational company spread in many countries including UK. As such, the company faces several challenges that it has to handle and this needs leadership management for efficient delivery of the required solution (Penford 2005, p.22). There are many challenges facing businesses all over the world and there has to be a strong leadership management at the helm, a leadership that is result oriented comes and can navigate the challenges fort the business keep track in the right direction of productivity. Considering this, analyses is done for P&G Company in the United Kingdom to understand the key challenges confronting the business, the model that has been used in this case is PEST analysis (Vinwood 2001, p.19). PEST model is a useful tool that is mostly engaged to understand the market growth or decline that may be experienced by a company, in this regard, the analysis that is accrued from PEST can be conveniently used to project on critical factors in an organization like potential, direction as well as the position. It is thus important to do a PEST analysis of a company occasionally to understand the critical factors that may be bedevilling its performance (Hardesty, 2008). Political Factors As it is known that P&G Company mainly deals on the personal cleaning and laundry products as their mainstream products, there are several political challenges that have been found to be affecting the company in UK. The indigenous companies in the country like Hospec Company are favoured by the tax legislations enacted in the country; this is away from the funding and grant given to the companies by the government. The taxation policies given to P &G are making their products very high not to favourably compete with the domestic products in the country in terms of costs (Crick 2012, p.21). In this regard, one of the challenges facing the company in UK is balancing the cost of their products so that they can be the same with the indigenous products; the Company has to balance this for adequate competition with other local companies in the UK. If the company

Speech Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 4

Speech - Essay Example As Danier specializes in the quality and expertise they put into their products, I would say that it would be best for them to position their company as a premium leather store that will bank on genuine leather materials and stick to a realistic premium pricing. I strongly believe that this will drive more sales as it will be more attractive to people who have affinity with leather products and will not create any doubts on the quality especially because real leather is practically priced premium. This will also drive loyalty once customers see that the products offered do not in any way compromise quality. I will measure the success of the campaign that centers on a strong brand positioning aside from sales monitoring by coming up with a loyalty privilege account where customers who see themselves doing constant business with Danier instead of a one-time purchase only can avail of this by just purchasing the loyalty privilege digital card which in turn will give them access to promos and discounts. This will surely push for future purchases by a strong niche of leather lover

To what extent was China a Buddhist country from the third to the Essay

To what extent was China a Buddhist country from the third to the sixth centuries (200-600) - Essay Example However, it is interesting to note that Buddhism has been able to gain acceptance in China despite the age-old philosophies of Confucianism and Daoism. This paper discusses the influence of Buddhism in Chinese society during the third and fifth centuries and argues that Buddhism became a definite characteristic of Chinese society during the third and fifth centuries. The Introduction of Buddhism in China Buddhism entered China at a time when China was experiencing a new period of prosperity and wealth. During the early decades of the third century, the Han Empire was consolidating its grip over the Chinese mainland. Wright (p. 9) explains that during this period, the Han elite had established its rule over the north and south of China. A new social order was being created. An intellectual process was taking place where thinkers were building a rational structure of the political and social changes taking place during Han rule. Confucian principles and values were blended with experie nces from reality to create a code of life. However, the gradual decline of the Han Empire resulted in a loss o favour with Han Confucianism as well as Daoism. In such an environment, Buddhism found a receptive audience among monks searching for a simpler and unadulterated code of life. Buddhist Influence in China’s Intellectual and Spiritual Life Buddhism gradually accommodated itself into the intellectual and spiritual life of the Chinese elite during the fourth century (Zurcher, p. 3). Zurcher (p. 3) further explains that because of the linguistic barrier between the original Buddhist texts in Sanskrit and the Chinese language, Buddhism in China assumed a distinct form compared to Buddhism in India. He also states that Buddhism was initially the interest of monks in the southern parts of the country and also among the well-to-do common population. Zurcher’s (p. 3) argument also reveals that Buddhism was eventually assimilated into the Chinese intellectual sphere ins tead of replacing Confucianism or Daoism. This, however, does not mean that the interest in Buddhism was restricted to the south of China. While Buddhism was finding a receptive audience in Jin-ruled southern China, Buddhist thoughts were also making an influence among the non-Chinese rulers of northern China (p. 4). However, it is interesting to note that the Chinese tendency to assimilate rather than supplant philosophies with earlier ones was prevalent in the north as well as the south, although Buddhist thought took different forms in both regions. In fact, because of the external threats to China from the north and the northwest, the development of Buddhist though in the north was more dynamic than the evolution of Gentry Buddhism in southern China (Zurcher, p. 3). This form of Buddhism was developed by Chinese monks and was accepted by the gentry or nobility in southern China as a means to high culture. The evolution of Buddhism in the north after the collapse of the Han dynas ty assumed a distinct direction but remained in favour of its widespread acceptance. The most significant development in this process was the introduction of the idea of the emperor as the incarnation of the Buddha (Reat, p. 141). The non-Chinese rulers of the northern part of the country adopted Buddhism as a means of legitimizing their rule. The old order based on Confucianism was no longer valid and there was need for a new belief system to give