Esperanza Rising Book Review

Lesson 97 Book Review Esperanza Rising Author: Pam Munoz Ryan (2000) Page Length: 262 Reading Level: 5-7 Genre: Realistic Fiction PLOT SUMMARY: As the story begins, Esperanza Ortega, the daughter of Sixto and Ramona Ortega, rich land owners of the Rancho de Las Rosas, is living in Mexico. Esperanza is six years old and loves spending time with her father who teaches her how to be patient and feel the earth. The story, set right after the end of the Mexican Revolution quickly moves to six years later, on the eve of Esperanza's 13th birthday. Esperanza is anticipating her father's arrival home after a long day at the fields.However, her father does not return and Alfonso, the boss of the field workers, delivers the bad news to Esperanza, her mother, and abuelita that her father has been ambushed and killed by bandits who roam the fields. Many people come to mourn Sixto Ortega's death and give their condolonces for their loss. Esperanza’s two uncles, Tio Luis and Tio Marco come e very day to â€Å"sort† through her father’s paperwork. They bring the news to Esperanza’s mother that they have inherited the land and that she can remain on the ranch only if she agrees to marry Tio Luis. Tio Luis, the local bank director, plans to send Esperanza away to boarding school.After their house burns down to the ground, Ramona takes action to protect herself and her daughter from Tio Luis. Ramona tells Tio Luis that she will marry him to stall him from acting up on his threats. Ramona and Esperanza must leave abuelita behind her ankle when the house burned down. She decides to move to California with Alfonso, Hortensia, and Miguel to find work and a build themselves a better life. Ramona plans to work in the fields helping with the various crops that are grown in California. This offers a better life to Alfonso’s family, but not to Esperanza and her mother.They are leaving a life of prominence, luxury and wealth to live with their former emplo yees in dirt floor cabins. Esperanza has a very hard time dealing with the loss of her father, separation from her grandmother and living in poverty. All the people of the camp know her story and she is ridiculed by some of the girls. She quickly learns to do household chores and to help watch the twins. After her mother becomes ill, Esperanza starts to work so she can pay her mom’s hospital bills and support herself. She works hard and saves her money so that she can bring her abuelita from Mexico to California to join them.Miguel who worked for her family all of his life risks it all to bring her abuelita to California. â€Å"Esperanza Rising,† by Pam Munoz Ryan, tells a story of hope and survival. Through many trials, Esperanza learns about the important things in life. REVIEW: I enjoyed this book very much. It is highly recommended. It is a story of set in the United States during the Great Depression Era and it shows how Esperanza overcame the obstacles of living in a new country despite losing everything. The book is written in English, but several Spanish words are used, which would be good to use in vocabulary development.Pam Munoz Ryan has described this book as being based on her own grandmother’s Esperanza’s life in Mexico and the United States. As a child, her grandmother would talk about her life in the farm camps. These stories inspired the book Esperanza Rising which tells a story of hope and survival. This book has an interesting story line and real-life characters. It brings forth the struggles of Mexican immigrants, racism, difficult and substandard working and living conditions of migrant farm workers in San Joaquin Valley, California and the history of the Great Depression.

Impact of Advertisements on Consumers Choice Essay

Bovee and Arens (1994) define advertising as the non-personal communication of information, usually paid for and usually persuasive in nature (about products and services) or ideas by identified sponsor through various media. An advertising medium is the means or conveyance by which sales message is carried to prospective customers. Advertising is many things to people. It promotes and affects our daily lives. At times people view it positively that they might find it entertaining while other advertisements are cursed, insults and deceives it. There are also times where advertisements can mislead consumers buying behaviour. Advertisers work on consumer’s attitude to achieve their goal. Influencing and affecting their buying behaviour. Perhaps advertising is the most obvious venue where the concepts of attitude formation change can be seen in application. Persuasive communications (advertisements) can be transmitted through various media print, (newspapers, magazine, books) audio (radio and telephone) audio visual (television and movies) and electronic (internet and e-mail). Consumerism is here to stay. Tomorrows consumers will be better educated, more affluent and more critical. They will probably be less concerned with status and symbols and be more anxious to get information about the product. Background of the Study Most people may not realize it, but advertising has become pervasive if only by the sheer number of advertisement people are exposed to everyday. While advertisements are generally thought as a way to sell things an underlying element can at times be missed. It is that advertising can influence and change people attitudes and can be a potent form of influence. In fact many people blamed advertisements for encouraging materialism on people because advertisers present their products as a â€Å"must have†. Those who acquire them are depicted as more confident or more popular and this gets people to buy more products. The expression that â€Å"today we live in age of advertising† is so common to hear that it has in fact become almost trite so much that the average man has not bothered to pause even briefly and bring to mind the innumerable benefits it bring to society. The rising level in the standard of living would not have been possible in the absence of advertising. For an individual to make effort to examine an advertisement. It should first and foremost capture the individuals attention. According to Fiske (1995), attention involves the process of encoding where by people take information that is outside of them and represent in their heads. It is interesting to know that while watching the favourite shows in T.V., advertisements seem to be a part of it. Sometimes they even consume more hours than the shoe itself. Nowadays, advertisement seems to rule television and radio being a sponsor on shows because of different advertisements being shown the consumers was being confused about what product to select and use because of how the advertisers promote their product. Advertising can influence buying behaviour patterns. There are also some deep rooted attitudes, practices and values that cannot be changed by advertisements. Advertising is claimed to accomplish the four basic task of: informing, persuading, reminding and changing behaviour. Statement of the Problem 1. What are the different forms of medium used by advertisements? 2. What are the factors that affect buying behaviour of the consumers? 3. How can you measure the effectiveness of an advertisement ? 4. What are the level of effectiveness in the following medium? : a. Radio b. Television c. Print ad(newspapers and magazines) 5. What are the attitudes of the following consumers towards different forms of advertisements? : a. Children (8-12) b. Teenagers(13-19) c. Adults (20-onwards) 6. Are there differences in people attitudes towards advertisements considering the following : a. Educational attainment b. Socio- economic status Significance of the Study Everyone will benefit from this study because everyone is considered as a consumer. There is hardly any person who has no personal idea concerning advertising because it is everywhere. Advertisements have become not only a source of entertainment but also of information. These touch our way of life in infinite variety of forms, some subtle, others obvious and there are those that are even blatant.

Clive Staples Lewis Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words - 1

Clive Staples Lewis - Research Paper Example From this study it is clear that  man’s pursuit of religion is an undertaking performed in order to achieve spiritual happiness, the kind that transcends believers’ perception of reality towards the goodness and promises of the life hereafter. It is so-called a pursuit because no one is born with religion served on a silver platter. Perhaps you might think about religion that is based on blood and race. Religion is something that should be taken as even deeper; its meaning is significant and highly philosophical. Any Jordanian man born can have the choice of believing in Jesus Christ, which is equally the same as an American believing Allah and Mohammed.  This paper highlights that  faith is greater than religion, for without faith, religions collapse and all the things associated with it perished. When there is faith, there is a belief. That is why, when one has faith in a supreme being, he believes that his actions are in accordance with what must please with hi s master; otherwise, he will be punished. This is Gandhi’s mantra that karma strikes to deserving people because it is the universal law of nature. It is noteworthy to know that even brilliant personalities in history acknowledged the moral bearings of their actions because there is someone who creates the law of morality.  Knowledge, as defined by Freud, as something that is attained through research and this knowledge is used to discern objects present only in the universe and not to the invisible such as God.

Influenza Outbreak of 1918. Could it Happen Again; World War I and How Essay

Influenza Outbreak of 1918. Could it Happen Again; World War I and How This War Impacted America. Did it Change the World Forever; Reasons Why the Stock Market Collapsed in 1929 - Essay Example The American involvement in the war is considered the result of several important factors, as follows – first and foremost, here should be mentioned the distinctive pro-American British policy and American elite’s pro-British sympathies, which became a reality after the â€Å"Great Rapprochement† between Britain and the US in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries (Buchanan, 1999, pp.193-5). Second, the widespread American dislike of militaristic Germany was â€Å"strengthened by the British propaganda†; while Americans generally sympathized with France, believing they owed it a debt (Buchanan, 1999, p.196). The immediate motive behind America’s entry into the war was the sinking of the Lusitania on May 7, 1915 (Buchanan, 1999). However, financial and commercial interests certainly stuck out – by the time of American entry into the war, US banks extended over 2 billion dollars to the Allies (Buchanan, 1999). Consequently, despite the relatively modest contribution to victory on the western front – during the hardest fighting of the war in 1918, the American Expeditionary Force captured 43 300 prisoners and some 1 400 guns – the US received recognition of their power, mainly due to their economic might, as well as the prestige and popularity of Woodrow Wilson (Strachan, 1998).

Visual Arts Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Visual Arts - Essay Example In this visual report, I would be comparing and contrasting 2 ancient vases to learn about them and get a better understanding of the same. The first piece of art is a ceramic amphora dating back to c. 540 BCE. This amphora was of Greek origin and had the painting of Dionysos with a pair of Maenads that was created by Amasis Painter. I chose to visualize and describe this particular vase because of its captivating contrast of colors of rich cream contrasted with black. The vase itself had a smooth fluidity in relation to its height and size which compelled me to use it as my visual art piece. The second piece of art that I had chosen to compare and contrast is a Korean Maebyeong Bottle that was decorated with a spray of bamboo in addition to a Plum tree in blossom. The reason for choosing this vase was because I liked the delicate painting which was done in a dull olive green which was so pretty and soothing to my eyes. The Greek amphora had a height of 13† (33.3cms) and was fr om the Bibliotheque National, Paris. The contour of the vase’s body was gorgeously decorated with the figures of the Greek God of Wine, Dionysos featured on the left sporting a beard and holding a wine glass in his hand, while the two Maenads, were to the right, and clad in 2 dark garments which were intricately detailed in presentation. One of the Maenads was seen holding a hare, while the other held a deer. On a closer look I also saw that each of them held a sprig of ivy between their fingers. The technique used here was contrasting dark figures against a light background. The pale green vase was created during the late 12th and early 13th century and belonged to the Goryeo dynasty. This art piece which I found quite attractive was basically an inlaid celadon ware which had a light background of grayish stoneware, that had an inlaid decoration of black and white slips, hidden under the celadon glaze. The technique which was formerly invented by the Chinese was used for thi s vase. This technique became a Korean specialty that enhanced the beauty of the vase to a great extent. This beautiful art piece had a height of 13† and a quarter (33.7cms) and is housed in the Tokyo National Museum in Tokyo, Japan. (The Arts of Korea, pg. 369) My analysis of the first vase which was a vessel used by the Greeks, was based on the decorative style which was bold as it was contrasting. I really liked the way the artist contrasted dark figures with a soft background. The spiral designs were aesthetically arranged so as to frame the composition and enable the viewer to focus on the figures in the center. I was also quite attracted to the border patterns of grape leaves both at the bottom and top of the vase which served to bring a uniqueness to this art piece, by making it all the more attractive. 3 My analysis of the second vase with the bamboo decoration was that it had the influence of Chinese ceramics because of its appearance. On closer scrutiny I found that the vase was embellished with inlaid decoration of both bamboo and plum blossoms which contrasted against each other thus making the design to stand out and be noticed. The contrasting came from an under-glaze design from slips of black and white that was made from clay which was ground finely. This seemed to be a special technique used by the potters which is what made this art piece so unique in its design. In the Greek vase, the element that kept recurring was the use of dark figures that was framed with circular designs and borders to offset the composition. In the Korean amphora, the recurring element that was made use of was the inlaying of dark and white strips that were glazed to give it a unique appearance. In comparison to each other, each of the vases had its own unique style of art

Apple, Inc Thesis Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Apple, Inc - Thesis Example esigning and developing innovative products in the area of mobile communication, computers, accessories, including software, services and networking solutions. The company is committed to bringing the best user experience to its customers through its innovative hardware, software, peripherals and services in the area of technology and digital communication. The vision statement gives direction to the firm and serves as motivation for the workforce to develop collective goals and achieve them through shared learning and participatory approach. Company’s mission statements clearly state its commitment to diversity. With its business interests expanded across the globe, it addresses the needs of its consumers coming from diverse background that cuts across race, culture, color and nationality. As such, it not only promotes diversity within its work environment but also strives to exploits cultural competency of its human capital to innovate and maintain its competitive advantage. It is an equal employment opportunity employer and ensures that there is no discrimination based on race, color, nationality, gender, disability etc. In fact, it is committed to ‘working with and providing reasonable accommodation to applicants with physical or mental disabilities’ (apple.com). Moreover, Affirmative action is crucial ingredient that helps managerial leadership to exploit the unique competencies of diverse workforce. Workers enjoy equal rights and opportunity, irrespective of their nativity, color, gender or race . The organization provides constant learning environment to its workers so that they are able to upgrade their skills and knowledge to meet the changing demands of the times. . The various internal initiatives comprise of in-house training and skill development programs for people coming from different background. Most importantly, management recognizes the importance of diversity and makes effort to exploit the tacit knowledge of diverse workforce to create

Discuss why line-managers might not have an enthusiastic attitude Essay

Discuss why line-managers might not have an enthusiastic attitude towards equality and diversity policies. To what extent might diversity practitioners help to overcome this problem - Essay Example "If managers do not see the business case reflected in the behaviours and skills which an organisation values and the way in which performance is measured and monitored, then the business case risks being a paper based exercise that makes little impression on managers.† Echoing a sense of concern, Hodges (2008) feels that line managers must be encouraged to appreciate the strategic link between corporate social and diversity goals, vis-à  -vis, production, sales, and profitability goals through concrete case studies and examples. Hodges adds that line managers must feel involved in the diversity absorption process, which essentially can be facilitated through effective engagement with diversity practitioners. The Discussion Statement: This essay explores the nuances of diversity management, and examines some of the challenges that line managers face in adapting with a diversity policy for their team. The paper also studies some of the best practices exemplified by diversity practitioners in corporate, to seamlessly implement effective diversity practices in organizations. â€Å"Diversity is acknowledging, understanding, accepting, valuing, and celebrating differences among people with respect to age, class, ethnicity, gender, physical and mental ability, race, sexual orientation, spiritual practice, and public assistance status.† Diversity management, Foster and Harris (2005) opine, â€Å"Encourages innovative practices in human resource management that values employment relationship by addressing individual needs.† Potentially, employers see immense advantage in deploying demographically diverse workforce. Diversity, as opposed to equal opportunity, extends beyond legislation and focuses more on differences amongst individuals and groups (Laflà ¨che, 2005). The liberal perspective has moved the diversity discourse from providing equal opportunities

Communication In Business case study Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Communication In Business case study - Essay Example The Indian subcontinent consists of nations which are demographically very different from the Oceanic countries – cities have the dense population, it is quite common to families to live together thus coining the word ‘joint families’, and feel at unease while calling their bosses by the first names. Communication is varied during different stages of the relationship. The first stage is the initiation phase wherein verbal and written communication in form of telephonic and online interaction precedes face to face interactions. It is here that it will be found necessary to dig a little into the history of India, as cultural implications play a major role in deciding the mode organization communication being followed in a particular nation (Roberts and Tuleja 2008, 474). The nation was, practically two centuries, a colony of the erstwhile British empire. Thus English customs may be found rooted in the manner of communications. Over time, however, local mannerisms have mingled with these habits to produce a different set of rules altogether. Meeting etiquette requires a handshake when one conducts business in India. Indians, on the other hand, use a traditional variant of greeting – The Namaste. This gesture consists of bringing the palms of the two hands together at chest level along with the utterance of the word ‘Namaste’ with a slight bow of the head. It has been noted, however, that people from outside the subcontinent often use this gesture beyond necessity – it must be remembered that India still suffers from a caste-based segregation in its societal structure. It will thus be judicious to decide beforehand to decide of the necessity of such a gesture.

Book Theif by Markus Zusak Essay Example for Free

Book Theif by Markus Zusak Essay Most good novels allow the reader to walk a mile in someone else’s shoes. Through language, characterisation and relationships the author is able to illustrate significant social issues. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak is a tremendously powerful book which captures key significant social issues of the power of words in Nazi Germany; Hitler’s manipulation of words and how people can find comfort in literature, as well as a means of escape. In the ‘Book Thief’, Zusak constantly emphasises the remarkable power and impact words have in relation to the corrupt world of World War Two. Through the use of descriptive language he is able to broaden the readers understanding of Hitler’s abuse of power by manipulating words and propaganda on the German people. Emotions of empathy are evoked when Liesel realizes that Hitler is the reason for her misery; adding to the loss of her childhood innocence. She comes to realize that Hitler is responsible for the war, her brother’s death, mothers suffering and why Max is sent to a concentration camp. â€Å"The words were thrown at the steps and Liesel could feel the slush of anger, stirring hotly in her stomach. ‘ I hate the fuhrer,’ she said. I hate him. † Zusak uses a metaphor, linked with imagery, dialogue and short sentences while at the same time reflecting emotive language to make me realise the importance of the power of words. Words are a powerful persuasive weapon of Hitler’s, and both Liesel, and I come to realise that, ‘without words the Fuhrer was nothing. ’ In this way Zusak has used Hitler’s manipulation of words to not only highlight the power of words in the ‘Book Thief’, but in our real world. Throughout Liesel’s journey Zusak clearly illustrates her growing understanding of Hitler’s manipulation of the power of words. And that he also proves that the power of words can be appreciated, while acting as a means of escape from the living reality, of war. Literature becomes Liesel’s sanity and without it she’d be far lost in the Nazi Germany Regime. So out of pure vengeance and anger, she rebels against Hitler by stealing books, while furthermore satisfying her hunger for reading. â€Å"She could smell the pages. She could almost taste the words as they stacked up around her. † This thus points out Liesel’s relationship and deep connection she shares with literature, by using a metaphor. Everyone needs to escape reality for a little while, to find beauty in the darkest hours, to keep their sanity, to survive. For Hans it is his accordion, Death’s is the colours, and for Max it is telling his story via art and literature. Yet of course Liesel too needs an escape, and she is able to find this from words and literature. By finding an escape route, Liesel’s knowledge of the power of words endures to build, and expand as she is able to appreciate literature. Liesel’s journey of escaping the horror delivers not only beauty and a hope to survive but allows her to find comfort through literature. I find this rather ironic, that she is able to bring comfort to her-self and others from literature, when before words only served her misery. â€Å"She couldn’t tell exactly where the words came from. What mattered was that they reached her. They arrived and kneeled next to the bed. † Zusak brings to attention; the idea of that literature is capable of accomplishing and bringing comfort to Liesel by using personification and imagery. But then again, within reading Liesel is not just able to comfort herself but can soothe others by understanding the true capacity words have, in relation that they can cause both pain and happiness. †¦But at least they were distracted now, by the girl with the book. † Through language and the overall use of irony, Zusak reinforces Liesel’s strong connection with literature, while engaging myself, the reader into the deeper meanings of the written text; that in means can provide comfort and an escape. By the author allowing the reader to, ‘walk a mile in someone else’s shoes’ social issues are evidently propounded. Markus Zusak has successfully demonstrated the significant social issues of, Hitler’s manipulation and abuse of power through words, and the appreciation of literature by providing escape and comfort in the Book Thief.

Islamic Commodity Market Essay Example for Free

Islamic Commodity Market Essay 1.0. Introduction The operations in the general business environment are very dynamic by nature. There is no doubt that the financial markets as well as the commodity markets need to structure their business operations, so as to meet the changing business environment demands as well as the expectations (United States. Congress. Senate. 2004). The main challenge for the main market players is to consistently be at pace with the business environment developments, so as to have in place effective as well as timely establishments of operation standards and regulations. A number of international initiatives have focused on the state of operations of the commodity market in the Islamic market. This has been done so as to establish standards as well as benchmarks, which are set to strengthen the world commodity market. The research study intends to contribute to the need for establishing a regulator commodity market, especially in the Saudi Arabia financial market (The Economist 2006). The Islamic commodity market is one of the major aspects in the world commodity market, which has achieved tremendous growth in the recent past. This is to the extent of being a substantial component within the global commodity market, and has thus gained a lot of interest as the crucial component of the world financial market (Europa Publications Staff, 2002). The increasing demands as well as awareness for establishing investment portfolios to be in line with the shariah principles at the global market, have acted as stimulators towards establishing the Islamic commodity market as the world’s most attractive industry. This is an indicator of the growth of the wealth base as well as the potential of the investors, who could either be Muslim or non Muslim, to find ways and invest in commodities which meet their needs and expectations (El-Gamal, 2006). Research questions The research questions to be answered in this research study provide a basis, for establishing the importance of establishing a form of regulator commodity market in the financial market of Saudi Arabia. The aspect which is being focused on in this research study is the reasons as to why a regulator form of commodity market should be established, especially in Saudi Arabia. The research questions will therefore act as a guide to activities of the research study (Henry and Wilson, 2004). Core research question The main aim of the research study is to assess the need for establishing a regulator form of commodity market in the land of Saudi Arabia, and the effects on the business transactions which take place in the Islamic market (Henry and Wilson, 2004). The other research questions that need to be covered in this research study include: 1. What are some of the factors which influence the conduction of business transactions in the Islamic market? 2. What are the likely effects of establishing a regulator form of commodity market in the .land of Saudi Arabia? 3. Who are the major players in the Islamic market and what role do they play in the business transactions? 4. To what extent are the major players likely to influence the operations of the Islamic commodity market? 5. What potential effects does regulation of the Islamic commodity market have on the Islamic finance and the general business transactions? Research objectives The main intention of this research study is to establish, the importance of establishing a regulator in the Islamic commodity market especially in the suggested location Saudi Arabia. The importance of the regulator is assessed in terms of the effects to the Islamic financial market, as well as the general business transactions. The research study is intended at providing a sound bases upon which conclusive research findings can be made, as to the need for regulating the commodities market. Both the secondary and primary data will be analysed to assess the current state of operations of the Islamic commodities market, and the need for a regulator. Therefore, data will highlight the importance of establishing the current state of operations in the Islamic commodity market, and finally, for the research study to meet its intended research objectives (Taylor Francis Group and Dean, 2004). 2.0 Literature review Islamic commodity market The establishment of a distinct Islamic commodity market, whereby a number of investments as well as financing activities are established in accordance to the requirements of the Shariah principles, can be described as the outcome of the continued growth of the Islamic financial sector. There have been demands to address the issues of liquidity of the Islamic banks like Altauaruq and Almurabha among others, as well as the takaful operators in the various Islamic countries. There have also been efforts to establish a regulatory framework for the Islamic commodity market, and make clear the Shariah principles on the commodities which should are allowed to be involved in the business transactions at the commodity market (Davis and Azizian, 2006). In general, the Shariah principles that govern the conduction of business transactions at the commodities market states that the non legal transactions are those activities, which involves the use of interest and the commodities that have a certain level of uncertainties attached to them. Gambling is also prohibited as well as food and drinks among many other immoral activities (International Monetary Fund, 2006). Regulatory framework In the commodities market, an effective legal and supervisory as well as a regulatory framework establishes the essential ground for the operations of a modern commodity market. For the dynamic market like the Islamic commodity market, it is crucial that a conducive form of regulatory framework be established. This is to appropriately control the activities of the Islamic commodity market. A number of participants are allowed to address, any of the influences which affect the effective business operations of the market, as well as the innovations or even hinder the participation in the Islamic commodities market (Henry and Wilson, 2004). Considering the levels and number of business activities being carried out at this market, an analysis is being made to determine the need for having a regulator in place within this conventional market. The first hypothesis which can be established in this research study is whether, the establishment of the Islamic commodity market will make any positive influence on the levels of Islamic finance, as the other regulatory frameworks have managed to influence the other Islamic finance markets (Fadzli, 2003). To that extent, the second hypothesis is to assess the extent to which, the regulator of the Islamic commodity market will not make any improvements. Considering that the operations at the Islamic commodities market involve both legal and non legal business transactions, the third hypothesis is made in relation to whether the establishment of the regulator will cut down the levels of occurrence of the illegal business transactions. The fourth hypothesis in that respect is that, th e establishment of the regulator will not cut down the level of the illegal business transactions at the Islamic commodity market. By justifying the above mentioned hypotheses, the research study will have established the importance of having a regulator in the Islamic commodity market, and in this case the proposed regulator is Saudi Arabia (Al-Rifai, 2003). 3.0 Research design and methodology To establish the need for having a regulator Islamic commodity market, especially in the land of Saudi Arabia, the research sample for this research study will be administered with questionnaires. The targeted respondents are the to the top management officers of the major commodity markets and financial institutions in the Islamic commodity market. The sample population shall be 50 companies in the Islamic commodity market. The sample population has been chosen so as to avoid the feasibility problems, associated with the research studies. Qualitative as well as quantitative data will be collected. Quantitative data shall be collected from the primary sources, which shall be analysed by the use of statistical techniques, compiled and presented using tools like graphs and charts among other techniques. Qualitative data shall be collected by the use of open ended questions in the questionnaires, which will be subjective in nature as they will represent the personal opinions of the targ eted respondents. The qualitative data will support the quantitative data, in areas where the quantitative data will be having deviations from the factors under consideration (Al-Rifai, 2003). The survey questionnaires shall be administered, considering the fact that they are easy and simple to use on the part of the researcher and the respondents. The research objectives and questions shall all be encompassed in the information in the research questionnaires. The qualitative approach will involve the answering of questions which relate to the nature of operations of the commodity market markets, with the intention of establishing the need for having a regulator in the commodity market. Thus the survey study has the potential of highlighting the operations of the commodity market, and the mechanisms involved which demands for regulatory measures to be carried out (Henry and Wilson, 2004). Resources In order to meet the identified research questions and objectives, the researcher will use the relevant literature resources. These sources will include books, Journals and the other relevant publications in the areas of Islamic commodity market and regulations. The knowledge as well as the research information which will be encompassed and assessed for validity of the research findings, will include resources from online libraries like EBSCO, Amazon, Blackwell publications, the emerald journals and the other sources like Questia (Henry and Wilson, 2004). Access to the study population One of the challenges that the researcher anticipates to encounter in carrying out the research study is the accessing the targeted respondents. So as to meet this challenge, the below strategies have been devised, so as to have access to the respondents to obtain the crucial information for the research study. The researcher will obtain permission letters, which will be approved by the research department at the university. This letters will then be supplied to the top management officers seeking for permission to include them in the research study, and to use their companies as a sample of the research population. In addition to that, the researcher will assure the respondents that the information obtained from the research study shall be used for academic purposes only, and not for any other purposes unless permission is sought from them (Al-Rifai, 2003).

Importance of Packaging and Point of Purchase (POP)

Importance of Packaging and Point of Purchase (POP) If in the book The Little Prince of Antoine de Saint-Exupà ©ry The essential is invisible to the eyes in marketing (and while planning a strategy to catch the consumers attention) this concept unacceptable and it can even decide the entire future of a companys brand, turning it into a successful or a painful experience. In short terms: What the consumer needs must be highlighted by a powerful magical potion which basic ingredients: an attractive packaging design presentation, a carefully planned display of products and often most important the front cover of the product , which must be as appealing as the product itself. So, the essential must be visible to consumers eyes at first sight, smell and even touch. Figuring this combination out the success of a product should happen, but thats not all. So how it is possible to turn a brands concept into a sales example-to-follow and what is the role played by packaging and design in the marketing planning and how it can affect consumers choice? Lets find out more about it! IMPORTANCE OF POP Self service shopping environment Proliferation of packs on display More decisions made in store Shoppers less brand loyal Last chance to make a difference Low involvement= need for cues POP (Point of Purchase) is the place where sales occur (retailers, market, malls, and even virtual commerce) mostly created and prepared by the manufacturer for distribution to wholesalers or retailers who sell the manufacturers merchandise. Nowadays POP play a very important role in marketing strategy because most of many buying decisions are made in the area surrounding the counter, exactly at the same place where customers pay for their goods, at the so called point of sale. In these terms self service can be described as a way to reduce staffing costs for retailers, suppliers, to improve efficiency in manufacturing and distribution allowing access to a larger market. For customers for example it is a faster and cheaper way to buy with less personable interaction and in some cases obtaining more satisfying results, with less frustration resulting from human contact, which explains the tendency to self service proliferation in the last years. So instead of concentrating in reducing costs with staff retailers can focus on other aspects like logistics, negotiating with suppliers as well as planning the merchandise available according to the shoppers. But before any step is taken a market research is necessary to determinate if is there any actual demand for the product that is going to be presented to the public, even if possible several items should be tested and only after available for purchase. Some strategies can be helpful in testing a products demand in a POP: Quantity discounts offering 2 products by the price of one or offering a discount in the purchase of 2 complementary products; Complete a purchase POP advertising can be used to guide customers to purchase accessories; Offering free samples / promotional items obtained in manufacturers; Creating an excitement feeling in customer constantly by mixing the merchandise and fresh approaches. How to insure that a product is wanted by a customer in these last minute purchasing decisions? Unique/ high quality products easily available to the consumer as entering the store; Emotional connection and loyalty to the brand before and also after the POP ; Bonding with customer, brand Identity has to be easy-to-understand and easy-to-see using appealing packaging ,shape, size and colours ; Using the POP has a effective mean to communicate with the consumer : it should reveal what makes the real difference in the brand including its superior value (doesnt mean a lowest price) ; Retailers: metrics and motivations should be considered while developing product programs A good relationship with retailers will ensure that the products will be more visible inside the shop POP insure: Dynamic selling Fast way of recovering investment Low cost and effective way to present products information to customers (with low cost materials like Corrugated board, Cloth, metal, plastic, glass Appealing and quick way to interact with customers for example presenting the product in a separated stand using an outpost display this way customers can easily see and purchase the items. Effective and persuasive way to draw customers attention to new or existing products leading to impulsive purchase Establishment of popularity regarding a specific product or brand (the customer will associate the point of sale to the place where we can come back to buy it again) wich is good for retailer, wholesaler and product manufacturer Evaluate Packaging One of the most important 4 aspects in marketing should include packaging besides thinking of product, place, promotion and price. The same way a book can be sold just by its cover, flashy colours and by recurring to well known sources to make comments about its content any other product can be sold with the right wrapping. The consumer will be mostly attracted by the package but thats not necessary all, it will be just the calling card for whats coming next: the product itself, and that should include the concernment for the quality also and not just presentation. Although packaging is one of the most crucial steps in business is mostly neglected, but only if the product is a good one will customers become loyal to that brand, otherwise sales wont be repeated no matter how much the budget is applied on marketing and sales promotion and how much buzz is created around it. An intelligent packaging scheme should make possible for client to interact with the product to the point that the product becomes an object of desire, of evaluation, to be touched, smelled and finally bought. Necessarily quality packaging should be considered for it might make the difference between buying or simply ignoring a product, thats why for some companies this point is so important that they spend more money on packaging than in the product itself, others consider designing the core aspect, sometimes changing completely the products image or making only small changes or special editions. For example Coca-Cola since 1931 launched the famous Santa-Claus to celebrate the 75th anniversary forever changing the image of Santa-Claus and Christmas and catching the publics attention all over the world. It was such an impact caused by these campaigns that a true legion of fans was following all campaigns and even new kinds of packages were created (cartons that covered the bottles co mpletely with a handle at the top allowing consumers to take more bottles with them). Using view model of evaluate packaging View Model definition: It s a framework viewpoints defining a coherent group if views which can be used to analgise a system. Components of the view model Visibility how much attention does it attracts at POP Information supposed benefits, slogans, and any additional information printed on the package, usage instructions Workability package way of functioning instead of how it communicates: does it protects the product, is eco-friendly, fits on shelves Emotional Appeal How able is the package to evoke a desired feeling or mood. Applying the view model components to Bloom Project: In terms of visibility it should catch customers attention by its colourful packaging, being easy to handle and to carry anywhere. Information: the benefits are clear as improvement of the skins health and appearance, each product has its own label and specific instructions for usage according to age group. Speaking about workability the packaging protects the quality of the product , both tube or glass container option, also the fact that Bloom Project is eco-friendly: all the glass used is recycled and refillable. Regarding the emotional appeal the search for eternal beauty and for a healthy look is being enhanced by the fact that the products public target are men instead of women, turning the product into a mean to achieve healthier skin along with an anti-aging formula, all the marketing and promotion will emphasize the skin regeneration by using Bloom Project which will be available in the mainly retailer and pharmacies and uptown departmental stores at an affordable price. Theories and models of design packaging A package has two different components: The Structural Component product features and characteristics to guarantee the packages physical and technical requirements i.e. protection, qualities, preservation. The Graphic Component product relevant features and characteristics that attract, inform and motivate a purchase decision. Most important part is the decoration ,material and shape, product attention should be given to the product prior to any consideration of the package design. No amount of clever packaging will sell a product that the consumer does not want. Technical Functions Marketing Functions Graphic Design Basic Size how large or small the object or design i.e. size can be physical. Shape the actual package outline, or body of test. There are two different shapes positive and negative. Length-to-width, boring shape. Colour can attract attention and affects the moods or persona of the package. Tone the lightness or darkness. Icons Graphic design elements or symbols that convey meanings or massage Colour Theories and Package Design : Colour is a basic human needà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦like fire and water, a raw material, indispensable to life. Fernand Là ©ger, painter (1881-1955) The healing ability and symbolic importance of colour goes all the way back to the Ancient Egypt and Greece, coloured minerals, stones, crystals and sanctuaries for treatment, along with the 4 elements (air, fire, water and earth) which were associated with qualities such as coolness, heat, wetness and dryness. For example white colour is the use to symbolise mourning in some parts of India and China and was also used in the Imperial Rome, is the bridal colour in Europe, red is associated to humanitarianism (Red Cross) and in Islamic Countries (in the form of the Red Crescent) regarding the Geneva Convention. Yellow in China represents the imperial colour and power as well as the earth. Green for example was considered the colour of Venus the goddess of love and fertility. Orange in China and Japan means happiness and love while black colour in Europe is the traditional colour of mourning since eleventh century. However colours are not seen in the same way by any individual or group and tastes and opinions about the same exact colour can change depending on the person. On in twelve males is colour blind, women instead have a much lower colour perception deficiency : one in two hundred females (its passed from mother to daughter). It can also be caused in post-birth resulting into retina accidents and brain damages. Also UV can damage the retina as well as some medication. Nearly two million people in the UK suffer of this condition. Defective colour vision was first mentioned by the scientist John Dalton in his 1794s publication while realizing that both him and his brother had this defectiveness, originating the term Daltonism. So using some of the following colours can make the difference if you are colour blind: red/green (to a colour blind the red will change into brown , orange , dark yellow and green into dark yellow , purple and dark blue , this is called Protanopia). If you have Deuteranopiat green becomes brown, purple turn into plain blue. With Ritanopia bright red becomes magenta, orange becomes pink, green becomes blue and purple/blue changes to light blue/maroon. In Monochromacy (lack of colour vision) all is black and white. A recent study from University of British Columbia using the red and blue colours concluded after showing several non-real ads to a students group control the more effective were the ones using the red colour, no matter what kind of product. Instead blue colour would remind them of water, ocean, peaceful thoughts and relaxation, not so fitted state of mind for impulsive purchase purposes. The same study found that for eclectic messages blue works well, instead red is better for accomplishing a specific objective. Some other studies show that the yellow and brown colours may suggest hunger evoking burgers and fries, blue on the other way is less probable to cause hunger feeling due to the fact that not many kinds of food are actually blue. The food industry uses the connection between colours, vision and taste in many ways for example trough colorants to improve the looks of food. Colours used in packaging can transmit messages to customer for example pink and red indicates sweetness while green is associated with mint flavour. Purple , gold or black are associated with luxury and quality. So colours do matter in packaging design (especially in areas like market for foods, pharmaceutical and cosmetics) for they can also stimulate and even influence the consumers choice to the point of stimulating impulsive buying(for example most of products use yellow or red to stand out a new product or an improved one. Following the trend of a more sophisticated and busiest type of consumer nowadays the labelling should be printed in a more silk screening using appropriate size and colour to make reading easier (high-quality colour making it possible to use in any media in any type of material) because ingredients do matter to the consumer. So minimizing the type size on the reverse labels may not be such a wise choice. In order to enhance the natural ingredients of a product many times the labelling uses the wrong colours like gray ink on clear labels, not allowing the customer to satisfy the information need that should be available in the label. The product will lose interest. So even worse if the customer is colour blind it may become impossible to read the labels at all and the product instead of becoming a sale will be returned into the shelf. No wonder that Packaging design is now concerned with more realistic images, visual clarity, bright colours and very clear and recognisable symbols. Also, packages should be odour-free, resistant and compatible with the contents. Summary: In a to buy or no to buy decision many aspects should be considered in order to a product or brand to succeed, for they play a very important role in the consumers decision. Packaging design and POP materials if wisely combined as marketing strategy can inform the customer about the main characteristics of the product, can remind the customer about a product or brand and even can encourage for the selection of a new product. All together manufacturers, retailers and customers gain with this for the markets are stimulated by the constant pursuit to satisfy the customers demand. And as well as the quality and the benefits or the price of the product the packaging and the final appearance of the product (colour, shape, taste/smell) also triggers or not the consumers attention turning it in to an impulsive purchase within this demand market the self service is becoming a very important way to achieve the goal of sales again with the use of POP materials placed mostly at the entrance of the shops where can be easily seen and hopefully bought.

X- Factor or X-Fixer? X-Factor as a Commodity Essay -- Music Industry,

The assignment will attempt to explore the commercialised fabrication that is X-Factor, on the music industry. In particular, what does the reality show X-factor pose for production of artists, and the effects this has on the industry? The prestige for production that X-Factor had to offer for the music industry, simultaneously to now it may no longer desire through realisation of just regurgitated material? A matter of opinions and factual literature will be explored to elude the commodification this commercialised machine offers to the music industry. Firstly, what are commodities and the relation commodification holds within the music industry? Commodities are an existence of a good that are produced for means to a profit (Marx, 1968). Well established commodities are those with large markets, accustomed by large derivative markets trade and speculate profit, if the asset or produce interchanges in the way they are expected (Hesmondhalgh, 2007). Therefore, would it suggest cultur e commodification districts genuine value and asserts more focus on profit motives, subsequently, weakening creativity and originality that are imposed within the media industry? The relationship between commodification and the X Factor is a direct marketing tool for the commodification of music, which takes particular advantage of the much sought-after Christmas Number One spot every year (King, 2010). The X-Factor is a reality TV show that commercialises a singing competition. It originated from England, where now the format is sold in various other countries such as America. Contestants embark on four preliminary rounds prior to auditions faced in front of judges, where they are then faced through on going auditions to then face the public in li... ...ord selling is simply about the quality of the musician with that record, where as the star-making system refers to a well-established artist or brand based on their previous performance to guarantee future success, examples such as Elvis Presley or the Beatles to name a few. X-Factor nurtures and sculpts this musician to fit a star image or star personality (Frith, 2000), for example through the auditions you see their family or hear of a heart whelming story to add likability factor to their image. Predominant marketing on the image as oppose to the music-making is often heard throughout the live shows, â€Å"you do not have the X-Factor†, or â€Å"You have the voice, but the image is not right†. Surely it is only about the voice, regardless of what branded top they are wearing or well-established shoes they decided to put on that morning? The term X-Factor said to those†¦

The Exploration of Hernando de Soto Essay example -- American America

The Exploration of Hernando de Soto In 1539 Hernando de Soto and five hundred adventurers began on a journey of exploration that would take 4 years and would travel through 10 states in the southeast United States. His goal was to discover a source of wealth, preferably gold, and around his mines establish a settlement. During his travels through La Florida he encountered numerous groups of native peoples, making friends of some and enemies of others. His expedition was not the first in La Florida; however, it was the most extensive. In its aftermath, thousands of Indians would die by disease that the Spaniards brought from the Old World. De Soto would initially be remembered as a great explorer but, would be later viewed as a destroyer of native culture. However, in truth de Soto was neither a hero or a villain but rather an adventurer. De Soto was born somewhere around the year 1500 in Jerez de los Caballeros in Extremadura in what is now Spain (Milanich & Hudson 26). Contemporaries of de Soto would include Cortez, Balboa, and Francisco Pizzaro with whom he would share a great adventure. De Soto's ancestors had been part of the reconquista and as aristocrats many had been knighted for their part in driving the Moors from the Iberian Peninsula (Milanich & Hudson 26). Hernando would have played no part in the expulsion of the Moors; however, family legacy would have played no small part in developing his frame of reference. It is thought that by the time do Soto was fourteen he was on his way to the new world. In 1514 de Soto sailed with the new governor of modern day Panama. Six years later he was a captain who because of his part in military action against the Indians of Panama had earned the right to own Indian Sl... ...e seen as an adventurer or an entrepreneur trying to make good on his investment. Works Cited: Milanich, Jerald T. and Charles Hudson. Hernando de Soto and the Indians of Florida. Gainesville: U. of Florida P, 1993. Milanich, Jerald T. and Susan Milbrath., ed. First Encounters: Spanish Exploration in the Caribbean and the United States1492-1570. Gainesville: U of Florida P, 1989. Shipp, Bernard. The History of Hernando de Soto and Florida. Philadelphia: Lindsay, 1881. Varner, John G. and Jeanette Varner., trans., ed. The Florida of the Inca. Austin: U of Texas P, 1951. Verano, John W. and Douglas H. Ubelaker., ed. Disease and Demography in the Americas. Washington: Smithsonian Institution Press, 1992. Viola, Herman J. and Carolyn Martolis., ed. Seeds of Change: Five Hundred Years Since Columbus. Washington: Smithsonian Institution Press, 1991.

Adapting materials

Adoption Concerns with whole course books. Adaptation Concerns the parts that make up that whole. A process of matching To maximize the appropriate of teaching materials In context. Evaluation for adapting materials An exercise to help to develop insights into different views of language and learning into the principle of materials design.Process of adaptation -Internal factors (what the material offers) Content Organization consistency Choice of topics Skills covered Proficiency level Grading of exercise External factors (what we have) Learner characteristics Physical environment Resources Class size Reasons for adapting Aim to make the materials more communicative and authentic Aspects of language use Skills Classroom organization Supplementary materials Principles and procedures -Adding, including expanding (qualitative) and extending (quantitative) Materials are supplemented by putting more into them.Extensions of an existing aspect of content and bringing a qualitative and quant itative change. Expanding adds methodology by moving outside It and impotent. Deleting or omitting Reducing the length of materials as subtracting from it. Small scale-over part of an exercise Large scale-whole unit of a course book Modifying An internal change in the approach or focus of an exercise.Rewriting modify linguistic content and make it more communicative relate activities more closely to learners' own backgrounds and interests introduce models of authentic language set more purposeful tasks Restructuring classroom management design interactive exercise based on number of students and size of class Simplifying One type of modification, a ‘rewriting' activity.Simplify instructions and explanation of exercises and activities and as well as layout of activities To make it becomes easier to be understood Simplification of content and the ways in which that content is presented This technique is mostly use for to reading passages to change various sentence-bound elements to match text more closely to the proficiency level of a particular group of learners. – One can simplify according to Sentence structure. Sentence length is reduced Complex sentence is rewritten as a number of simpler ones.Lexical content Number of new vocabulary items is controlled. Grammatical structures Passives are converted to actives. Reordering Adjusting the sequence of presentation within a unit. Taking units in a different sequence from that originally intended. Separating items of content from each other Regrouping them and putting them together Conclusion work more relevant to the learners. Reference McCullough, J. & Shaw, C. (2003). Materials and methods in LET. (2nd De. ). Australia: Backfill Publishing.

Major causes of French Revolution Essay

Introduction French Revolution was the period that stirred the imagination of Europeans, both participants and observers sensed that they were living in a pivotal age. There were many causes that led to the French Revolution, but the primary cause was the social structure and others were maladministration, financial disorder, enlightenments, and interference in the American war of independence and poverty. This essay is going to focus more on these factors. Social structure Primary cause of the French Revolution was social structure. The old Regime refers to the measures of governance based on Monarchy/king and whose powers was despotic call authority vested on the Monarchy. During despotism the French society divided into three estates, the first estate, second estate, and the third estate. The first estates were the clergy and priests, the second estate were the nobilities or nobles, and the third state were the bourgeoisie, urban labours and peasants. The first estate or the clergy were enjoying privileges and the clergy did not pay tax instead determined the amount. The second estate enjoyed some privileges, they owned between one-quarter and one third of the land. The third estate were not enjoying any privileges, however, its success depended on the support given by the rest of the third estate. There was a vast inequality which caused the problem. ENLIGHTENMENT In general, it can be said that there is no instrumental relationship between the philosophers of the Enlightenment and the outbreak of the French Revolution. Writtings of the Philosophers influenced French society. Few philosophers, if any, advocated revolution and the reason is fairly clear. No philosopher advocated the violent overthrow of the existing order of things because violence was contrary to human reason. But because the philosophes of the Enlightenment attacked the established order together with authority of any kind, their ideas helped to produce what can only be called a revolutionary mentality. Most people used the work of philosophers to Question the French society using the ideas of philosophers as to seek reforms INTERFERENCE IN AMERICAN WARS Monarchy waged wars on other European countries including America, assisting in American war of independence. These wars shattered the economy of the state. Consequently, the state was either poor or bankrupt The American war of independence cost France a lot while the country already had a huge debt. As it became bankrupt it demanded heavy taxation on peasants and peasants realized that it was time to take action MALADMINISTRATION France had no Parliament. However, the country did have an Estates General which was a semi-representative institution. The way the French administered the country was through an overstuffed bureaucracy of officials. By 1750, the bureaucracy had overgrown itself – it was large, corrupt and inefficient. Too many officials had bought and sold their offices over the years. This led to corruption and over taxation. France had no single, unified system of law. Each region determined its own laws based on the rule of the local Parliament. Most govt official were characterized by incompetency and inefficiency, There was corruption in the govt Most officials had earned their positions in the govt through bribery, no qualification or talent, or competency to provide good governance FINANCES By 1789, France was bankrupt. The country could no longer pay its debts, debts that were all the result of war. One example says a great deal about this situation. By 1789, France was still paying off debts incurred by the wars of Louis XIV, that is, wars of the late 17th and early 18th century. Furthermore, a number of social groups and institutions did not pay taxes of any kind. Many universities were exempt from taxation as were the thirteen Parliaments, cites like Paris, the Church and the clergy, aristocracy and numerous members of the bourgeoisie. POVERTY Poverty was first caused by King Louis XIV because he had entered many wars and spent most of France`s money on Versailles. Another cause was King Louis XVI who sent out troops and money to help out in their American revolution. Marry Antoinette`s lavish living also contributed to poverty. Peasants were starving. This led to bread riots and protests in Paris That led revolutionary actions of July 1789; the Tennis Court Oath and the declaration of the National Assembly/ Constituent Assembly- 1791;the Storming of the Bastille and the great march to Versailles; France declared a Republic; the Declaration of the Rights of Man and the Citizen; Reforms introduced and constituted on the ideals of the Enlightened Philosophies.

Structuralism

Structuralism originated in the structural linguistics of Ferdinand de Saussure and the subsequent Prague and Moscow schools of linguistics. [1] Just as structural linguistics was facing serious challenges from the likes of Noam Chomsky and thus fading in importance in linguistics, structuralism appeared in academia in the second half of the 20th century and grew to become one of the most popular approaches in academic fields concerned with the analysis of language, culture, and society. The structuralist mode of reasoning has been applied in a diverse range of fields, including anthropology, sociology, psychology, literary criticism, and architecture. The most famous thinkers associated with structuralism include the linguist Roman Jakobson, the anthropologist Claude Levi-Strauss, the psychoanalyst Jacques Lacan, the philosopher and historian Michel Foucault, the Marxist philosopher Louis Althusser, and the literary critic Roland Barthes. 1] As an intellectual movement, structuralism came to take existentialism's pedestal in 1960s France. [2] Structuralism argues that a specific domain of culture may be understood by means of a structure—modelled on language—that is distinct both from the organisations of reality and those of ideas or the imagination—the â€Å"third order†. In Lacan's psychoanalytic theory, for example, the structural order of â€Å"the Symbolic† is distinguished both from â€Å"the Real† and â€Å"the Imaginary†; similarly, in Althusser's Marxist theory, the structural order of the capitalist mode of production is distinct both from the actual, real agents involved in its relations and from the ideological forms in which those relations are understood. According to Alison Assiter, four ideas are common to the various forms of structuralism. First, that a structure determines the position of each element of a whole. Second, that every system has a structure. Third, structural laws deal with co-existence rather than change. Fourth, structures are the â€Å"real things† that lie beneath the surface or the appearance of meaning. [4] In the 1970s, structuralism was criticised for its rigidity and ahistoricism. Despite this, many of structuralism's proponents, such as Jacques Lacan, continue to assert an influence on continental philosophy and many of the fundamental assumptions of some of structuralism's critics (who have been associated with â€Å"post-structuralism†) are a continuation of structuralism. [2]

Defined the Three Different Types of Breach of Contract Essay

In Contracts there are many terms used that sometimes may get confusing. Other times it is hard to tell which words mean what and how to use them properly in a sentence; the word condition being one of them. There are so many uses for the word and it may be used as a form to explain more in-depth in a contract, so that there is no confusion, or questions asked in what was meant by in a statement. Conditioned is defined in a contact as a future uncertained event that creates or destroys rights and obligations. A condition is a contact clause that modifies the basic agreements between the parties. Conditions can be complexed as â€Å"if you do this†¦, I’ll do that†¦Ã¢â‚¬ . There are different types of conditions, including implied, express, condition precedent and condition subsequent. It is legal and very common for contracts to have conditions. A condition can modify or rescind a contract. Conditions can also be based on certain action either of the parties themselves or some other outside action. A contract with no condition is â€Å"I promise to pay you $2,000 for your car†. A contract with a condition is â€Å"I promise to pay you $2,000 for your car, if a mechanic certifies it has no major mechanical problems. How can you tell if a contact has a condition you may ask, well its very simple, if the statements requires action to be taken for the contract to be enforced. An implied contract is one that is not stated in the contract and an expressed contract is one that is stated.

Analysis Of Jane Eyre English Literature Essay

Analysis Of Jane Eyre English Literature Essay 3. Themes and/or purpose of work: Throughout her life, Jane meets three different models of organized religion that she initially rejects, but eventually uses as foundation for her own personal doctrine of faith. Helen Burns exemplifies an all forgiving, tolerant, and benevolent Christianity that is too docile, submissive and fruitless for Jane’s natural temperament. Jane watches Helen suffer a cruel life and die all whilst being a quiet and obedient Christian, and determines her meekness was ultimately useless. Mr. Brocklehurst’s represents the hypocrisy of religion; he preaches the Christian values of poverty and humility while he unjustly deprives and punishes the students of Lowood and enjoys a luxurious lifestyle with his family. St. John represents a Christianity of martyrdom and strictly practices sacrifice and righteousness at the expense of his compassion and human emotion, and is described as â€Å"inexorable as death.† Jane denounces this model of rel igion as too cold and detached, and lacking the love she desires. In addition to Religion, passion (fire) vs. reason (ice) is another prevalent theme Bronte sprinkles throughout the novel. Fire is illustrated as passionate, warm, but sometimes dangerous, while in contrast ice is represented as detached, unfeeling, and metallic. Bronte stresses this contrast by attributing the motifs to certain characters. Particularly cruel, heartless or detached characters, such as Eliza Reed, St. John, and Mrs. Reed are associated with â€Å"ice.† Passionate, warm, benevolent and loving characters such as Helen, Jane’s cousins, Miss Temple, Georgiana Reed, and Mr. Rochester, are associated with â€Å"fire†. Bronte reveals her personal preference for fire over ice in showing the reader that although both are destructive elements, Fire’s destruction can be positive. For example, Bertha’s setting fire to Mr. Rochesters bed facilitates the intimacy between him and Ja ne. Her setting fire to and destroying of Thornfield Manner leads to her death, and frees Rochester from his painful past. Despite the fact the second fire was destructive in that it blinds Rochester, it allows Jane to realize his new dependence on her and overlook her past concerns about the inequality of their potential the union. Bronte does not directly say that the characters associated with ice are completely cold, unfeeling, and undesirable; however, she emphasizes the importance of â€Å"fiery† passion and love as the way to personal happiness. 4. Characters (major and minor): Jane Eyre: The narrator and protagonist of Jane Eyre. Jane begins the novel an impassioned and confused orphan but gradually develops into a sensitive, maternal, and independent young woman. Jane’s self-esteem, sense of self, and character as whole is formed in path through various worlds: Lowood, Thornfield, and particularly Moor House. Jane serves as a heroine to which everyone can rela te; she embodies the desire for love, the emotional conflict between passion and reason, the search for independence, and the demand for justice that every individual seeks. Edward Rochester: The master of Thornfield Manor, where Jane taught as governess. Mr. Rochester embodies and encourages the passionate side of Jane, as well as offers a contrast to her reason. Mr. Rochester is also particularly important to Jane because he provides her with the unconditional love and sense of family that she searches for throughout the novel.

How Might Corporate Social Responsibility Impact on an Organisation Term Paper

How Might Corporate Social Responsibility Impact on an Organisation - Term Paper Example Corporate Social Responsibility is the responsible relationship borne by business entities towards their stakeholders, community, and the environment. The stakeholders include customers, suppliers, employees, investors, and the communities. CSR is the realization of business contributions to sustainable development goals (World Bank, 2007), through the alignment of business operations with social values (Coors and Winegarden, 2005). Broadly, CSR can be measured by its contribution to society through its core business activity, social investment, and philanthropic activities. In business parlance, CSR is often termed as Corporate Citizenship. Corporate Social Responsibility emerged as a field of management studies in the 1950s (Banerjee, 2007). It is increasingly being accorded importance worldwide. CSR is important because an enterprise uses public money and survives on public money. As such, it has to invest a measure of its profits in the public. This investment in physical infrast ructure and social capital has become a necessary part of doing business. CSR promotes fairness and justice in society. Corporate Social Responsibility promotes sustainable development by bearing greater accountability towards issues of environmental and societal importance. CSR has come to be adopted as a sound business practice for small and large organizations. A company’s social responsibility and the activities carried out thereof are well-documented in the CSR reports that are often released along with Annual Reports. Nourick and OECD (2001) point out that socially responsible behavior is not limited to multinational organization alone, but is as relevant to SMEs (Nourick and OECD, 2001). Corporate Social Responsibility is different from other philanthropic activities like charity, making donations, employee welfare, etc. Corporate Social Responsibility far transcends the traditional methods of doling out donations and making charities used to carry a more public savvy image.

Rhetorical Situation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 5

Rhetorical Situation - Essay Example Finally, genre is the kind of writing; this would involve the specific medium of production. These elements are all important notions as they establish the structure of the rhetorical situation and demonstrate there are underlining parameters in this communication. In the text ‘They Say/ I Say’ authors Graff and Birkenstein discuss the notion of ‘entering the conversation.’ Entering the conversation refers to the process of writing or potentially speaking that engages with a listener. In this way, one enters a conversation not simply by speaking their mind, but by considering the perspective and opinion of the opposing party. As such, the individual’s writing or speaking directly considers these viewpoints and builds off of them in the form of a conversation. This is highly important for a variety of reasons. As a rhetorical strategy ‘entering the conversation’ means that the dialogue being produced is well considered and deeply engaged with another person’s views. This is a way of looking at academic writing from an entirely new perspective. The authors indicate that oftentimes academic writing is written as if there is an ultimate ‘truth,’ or written simply to say ‘smart ’ things (Graff & Birkenstein, p. 3). Instead, entering the conversation recognizes that the greatest possible insights are those that are gleaned from direct conversation and deliberation with another person. Summarizing is recognized as highly important in academic writing. From an overarching perspective, summarizing is important as it is the first step in entering the conversation. In this way summarizing, functions as an indicator that demonstrates the individual recognizes what they are responding to. The authors indicate then that it is necessary to summarize the opposing argument early in the text and then refer to it at strategic points (Graff & Birkenstein, p. 19). While summarizing is important, the text indicates that this summary should get

Attributes Determining Lynettes Success in the Business Case Study - 2

Attributes Determining Lynettes Success in the Business - Case Study Example As a positivist, Lynette saw opportunities where previous managers found obstacles. In addition, the entrepreneur was able to free her mind from any disappointment in order to achieve the dream of profitable and expanded business. Patience: Lynette purchased the business with one clear mind of turning it around. It is evident from the case study that she assumed the role of a salesperson and spend a considerable amount of time trying to convince clients to renew their membership while at the same time registering new entrants by mainly focusing on corporate clients. Persistence: Certainly, the future holds the unknown and when Lynette purchased a loss-making business, she never got discouraged. Even with the numerous challenges that the entrepreneur had to come across, her persistence and sense of focus played a key role in meeting the dream of transforming the business back to profitability. Merger: The entrepreneur was operating in this line of business and this means she had some other businesses of similar nature. Bearing in mind the poor performance of this business, I would have considered merging it with other profitable businesses and change its name completely. This would have totally replaced the current business with one of the best performing businesses in the market hence attracting many clients. Offering discounts: I would introduce discount packages for both new entrants and clients renewing their registrations. This would not only act as a motivation to both groups but also indirectly boost new registrations through referrals and take advantage of reduced subscription fees. According to the case study, Lynette claims to have carried out homework before signing the ownership contract. Basically, not all entrepreneurs would consider purchasing a loss-making entity that is on verge of  collapsing. In this sense, by Lynette said to have done homework means that she had conducted research on this business. Such research must have revolved around this particular business to understand what was ailing it.

Film Analysis on Product Development (of the film Kinky Boots) Essay

Film Analysis on Product Development (of the film Kinky Boots) - Essay Example Showing him wearing rubber shoes on his way to London signifies his lack of enthusiasm for the shoe production business. His relocation, together with his fiancà ©e, was to his liking as he wants to get away from his family’s business as soon as possible. But the unexpected death of his father forces him to move back to Northamptom and lay off his workers when he figured out there is no way for him to save the company. There was just not enough market for the shoes they are producing. The four generations that proudly carried on the tradition of Price & Sons over the years was on it last days when he entered the picture. Even his father was already set on selling the factory before his death. On an accidental meeting with drag queen Lola, Charlie was hit with an inspiration to create as he described it, â€Å"proper, good, decent, built-to-last boots† (Joel). As it was that men of their persuasion are forced to buy women’s shoes that are not sturdy enough to withstand the weight of a full size man. Drag queens have very specific needs and wants that women’s shoes do not have. The heels break and their feet would hurt as their weight is carried on their feet that are not supported with proper footwear. The brilliant idea of changing the product of Price & Sons hit Charlie and propelled him to do something to save his family’s company. â€Å"You exploit divergence to create a new category, and the expansion of that new category allows your brand to flourish† (Ries and Ries). This revolutionary marketing idea is one that was apparent in the movie ‘Kinky Boots.’ They were more than the first to take advantage of the marketing niche. They were able to create a new category that was distinguishably new in the shoe making industry. There was no other shoe company that specializes in selling shoes that are made for drag queens who prefer women’s design but are also be fabricated accordingly. With the concept, Charlie

Elements of reasoning and intellectual standards Coursework

Elements of reasoning and intellectual standards - Coursework Example The problem arising is that the president failed to visit the flood torn area in the boarder where many children got affected. The information should be from a credible source. In this article, Perry was quoted in a CNN interview saying that the American people expect to see their President when there is a disaster and that president Obama showed up in Sandy and not in Texas (Cohen, Payne, & Ford, 2014). This information is credible as it is given to the global news caster. The news article should also highlight the concept or the way the event is supposed to be approached at a given time. The concept here is that the American president needs to have a close attachment with the people and therefore he should have been with the children in the flood area. The clash arose when the president said that going to a crisis area is only meant for a photo shot implying that there is no need of moving to the area. This attributes of the president have been likened with the acts of the former president George W. Bush who decided not to visit the Gulf coast when it was affected by the storm Hurricane Katrina in 2005. He opted to fly with the Air Force One hence got a lot of criticism from the public for detaching himself from the victims (Cohen, Payne, & Ford, 2014). It is recommended that the president should at least send some representatives than being silent or even criticizing that event for doing so he may be portrayed as if he is not concerned with the peop le. The article should portray fairness in its way of representation meaning that the editors should be fair in their news release. The intellectual standards have been used as we can see the involved actors are responding to criticism. The governors state their criticism about the event and the president states his view on how he thinks is supposed to happen. In my own opinion, I think the article is biased because the criticism towards the president does not

Report about the aviation bureau Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Report about the aviation bureau - Essay Example It provides air transport summary data, which is summary information about the nonstop segment and on-flight market. This is a report by air carriers on Form 41 and 298C (U.S Department of Transport, 2015). The bureau gives airline on-time performance data. The data accounts for at least one percent of domestic booked passenger revenues, which consist of scheduled and actual arrivals and departure times for flights, and it is reported monthly. Other services offered are as follows. Origin and Destination Survey (DB1B) which includes data of origin, destination, and other itinerary details of carried passenger and at least a sample of 10% airline tickets is taken from reporting carrier. American Travel Survey: it includes national data on the nature and features of long-distance personal travels. Aviation support: It provides comprehensive geographical data and carrier entities. Commodity Flow Survey: It is conducted in every five years and consists of shipment information. Intermodal Passenger Connectivity Database consist of national data table of passenger transportation terminals with information on connectivity among the various scheduled public transportation (U.S Department of Transport, 2015). Small Air Carrier Statistics is information on small carrier performance in booked or non-booked and charter services. Air carrier employees comprise of a number of employees of all major domestic air carriers. Aviation Accid ent Database and Synopses are database of unsafe civil aviation incidents within the state and in global water. Accidents summary is a brief of all annual fatalities, injuries, and accident of all air carriers. Finally, aviation safety reporting system is a collection of data sets relevant to aviation

Intercultural Communications assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

Intercultural Communications - Assignment Example The Canadian culture is under individual culture. This is clearly seen when people meet for the first time, they always want to know what the person does, their accomplishments, individualist culture, and where they live. These items become basis of defining a person. In this country there are also few family names and people are not often defined by their family name but by their accomplishments. Power distance theory analyses the way different cultures deal with inequalities. This is the extent to which people from the minority group in a country accept and expect that there is unequal distribution of power. Canadian culture is characterized with a low power distance. This is evident in workplaces where every employee has equal rights. Company employees have the right to speak out if they are not satisfies with the working conditions. This can be directly or through trade unions. Uncertainty avoidance theory analyses the extent to which people within a culture feel that they are threatened by unknown situations. Canada culture is weak in uncertainty mainly because of the diversity among people. People are more relaxed because they respect each other’s cultural background. Ethiopia is a country that has a diverse mix of linguistic and ethnic background. This country is estimated to have more than 80 different ethnic groups, each having its own culture, language, custom, and tradition (Teum Teklehaimanot, 2015). Ethiopia has a collective culture where relationship among people is emphasized at a greater degree. People are defined by their family names and extended families are the focus of the country’s social system. Relatives from both sides of the family and close friends usually have a close relationship. Quit often when people marry, they live with their families so that there is a group to turn to when need arises. In Ethiopia, there is high power distance, which means that people are expected to respect those who are in power

Social Responsibility and Timberland Essay Example for Free

Social Responsibility and Timberland Essay How would you characterize Timberlands exercise of its corporate power in society? Timberland uses its corporate power in society not only to make a profit, but to help others. It is a rarity for a company to go as far as Timberland has gone to make a huge difference in society. Whether participating in its City Year to Service program that serves its communities; or becoming carbon neutral, Timberland has paved the way and reflects a company that not only cares about its communities, but also cares about the environment. I would characterize Timberland’s exercise of its corporate power in society as â€Å"Corporate Social Responsibility†. That is, timberland is being socially responsible towards society and it is acting in a way that enhances society. By exercising its power, Timberland is practicing the â€Å"iron law of responsibility† which says that in the long run, those who do not use power in ways that society considers responsible will tend to lose it. Moreover, by acting in the general public interest, Timberland is following the â€Å"Stewardship Principle† Yes, Timberland is engaging multiple stakeholders in its business operations, starting from Timberland’s management (CEO- Jeff Swartz) who is has managerial duties at Timberland and he is personally involved in the social activities sponsored by Timberland. Timberland’s employees are main stakeholders who in addition to their job tasks at Timberland are participating voluntarily in its social activities. The community service organization (City Year) is another stakeholder which is supported financially by Timberland. Non-profit organizations which benefit from the grants Timberland makes annually are also stakeholders for the company. Other communities and society members who benefit from Timberland’s community services activities are another set of stakeholders to Timberland. Q2) Has Timberland balanced its economic and social responsibilities through its various programs, such the Path to Service program and sustainability goals? Are the company’s programs examples of enlightened self-interest?

Small local grocery store: disadvatages in metropolitan area

Small local grocery store: disadvatages in metropolitan area EST1 Task 1 Being a small, local grocery store chain in a major metropolitan area is daunting. National and regional chains are regularly putting out of business small stores owned by local companies. This reason, along with the at large social responsibility taking hold of consumers requires all companies to adjust their organizations from solely a profit-seeking motivation to being socially and ethically understanding in their business outlook. Company Q recently closed two stores in higher-crime-rate areas. Those closures where attributed to the consistently negative balance sheets of those stores. If these stores in higher-crime areas were not making a profit, what is the reason they were losing money? To take a socially responsible approach to all of our store locations will mean understanding our customers. For example, if a store in a predominately-Jewish neighborhood is selling non-kosher items we could expect these items to not be sold in the same volume as kosher items. Taking a Jewish-centric approach to a stores marketing in a Jewish neighborhood makes good business and ethical sense. When we understand our costumers and their communities, we understand that business flourishes where society thrives. Company Q, after many years of customer requests, began to offer a limited selection of health-conscience and organic products in all of their stores. Offering organic and other health-conscience offerings in response to customer demand is a positive step in forming a social contract with our customers instead of merely offering them what we feel they need. Understanding our customers means providing them what they want and what they need. Offering high margin products to customers who have neither the financial ability to afford the higher costs associated with those products, nor have a desire to purchase these products will not help Company Qs bottom line. Product choices must be targeted to the consumer. Ethnic foods must be endemic to the neighborhood their being offered in. Marketing of stores in cultural or racially specific communities must be stocked with products that meet the needs of those people. It takes very little effort to understand our customers, but that little effort can be the difference between a store being successful or failing. Insuring that Company Qs stores differentiate themselves in the marketplace will help give the company a competitive edge in these tough economic times. Company Qs current policy of disposing of day-old products is a perfect example of missing a great public relations and corporate social responsibility opportunity. When asked by the areas food bank to donate product that would otherwise be thrown away, management declined. Employees concerned management over lost revenue through possible fraud and theft instead of donating the food. The first concern with this issue is understanding its costs and actual or perceived benefits. Company Q will write-off any product that needs to be disposed off due to exceeding the expiration date. The products are disposed of in a dumpster and that is the end of the products usefulness in Company Qs current viewpoint. The company, if paying by weight or volume, will incur greater disposal rates from the waste removal company for disposing of the unsellable product instead of donating it to the local food bank. The second concern with not donating product that would otherwise be thrown away is employees attitudes. If weve communicated to our employees that we will not be socially conscience to those people in need in our community, what does that say to our employees since they are also a part of the local community. In our digitally connected society it would be foolhardy to not expect a socially aware employee to film the disposal of food that we may not be able to sell but which could be given away and used by those in need. The potential negative feedback of such an event for a small chain like Company Q cannot be overstated. The above concern dealt with not just the direct financial costs to our company but the possible social capital loss that we find in our current position. Thankfully, Company Q doesnt need to expend much in the way of financial or employee effort to make a considerable difference in our store neighborhood community respect. One delivery van can be used to pick-up the product that would otherwise be thrown away at the end of the workday and transported by the stores supervisor to the local food bank. The food would be unloaded by food bank staff while the Company Q supervisor could discuss with the food bank managers the impact that those donations will have on the community. The marginal time spent loading and travelling to the local food bank is a minor inconvenience for the storeowner at worst and a major public relations benefit for not only the local store but also Company Q in general. We could also expect a reduction in our waste removal services since less product will be thro wn away. â€Å"The point is to attract customers wanting to make a difference in society through their purchasing† (Bronn, 2001, p.2). The intrinsic and extrinsic benefits for not only Company Q management but also storeowners and store employees alike, clearly proves the need for a socially conscience corporate attitude. References Bronn, P.S., Vironi, A.B. (2001). Corporate social responsibility and cause related marketing: an overview. International Journal of Advertising, 2. Retrieved February 27, 2010, from http://www.basisboekmvo.nl/files/cause-related.pdf

Harriet Beecher Stowe Biography

Harriet Beecher Stowe Biography Katie Rarick Multi-source Research-based Paper Harriet Beecher Stowe Harriet Beecher Stowe was born June 14, 1811. She was born into a large, famous family. Her siblings all became ministers, educators, or founders of an organization; but she believed her purpose in life was to write. Stowe started off not as successful as her siblings, but she stuck to her gut feeling and eventually created some of the greatest pieces of writings that opened the publics eyes towards slavery. What was it about Stowes writings that made slavery more aware to the nation? Stowe attended school at Sarah Pierces Litchfield Female Academy and Hartford Female Seminary, which was founded by her sister Catherine. At the Seminar is where she gained most of her writing talents. She spent many hours and nights writing essays. She was well prepared for her writing career from not only her schooling, but also the education and discipline she learned at home. She graduated when she was only 13. At her graduation, she had one of her essays read in which her father had no idea. When he had heard she had written it he was, to say the least, surprised and proud. She later married Calvin Stowe, who was nothing more than a college professor. She stated he was rich in Greek and Hebrew, Latin Arabic, alas rich in nothing else. This motivated Stowe to begin to do something with her writings. Her and her husband could not afford living on Calvins salary, therefore she began to write stories and publish them. Another huge influence was her attitude towards slavery and the wrong doings that she could not speak out about because she was a woman. They only way she could get her words out was to write about the issue that was bothering her and many others as well. She had a group of friends with the same beliefs as her and they began to create some writings together. Once she married Calvin, however, that was her final push to publish her works. Her writings were not only a source of income but also an educational source. Harriet Beecher Stowe was not only an author, but also an abolitionist. Stowe created over 30 pieces of work, with Uncle Toms Cabin being her greatest piece. (Impact of Uncle Toms Cabin, Slavery, and the Civil War). She wrote it in response to the Fugitive Slave Act. It showed readers the effects slavery had on families and people began to empathize with the characters in the story. It has been said that because of Stowes book, the Civil War began. No one knows if this is true or not, but President Lincoln once said to Stowe, so youre the little woman who wrote the book that started this great war!. It wouldnt be a surprise if that was the case, because the book influenced people in the way of political and economic arguments about slavery. After the book was published, Stowe got many reviews that both applauded the book as well as stated it was inaccurate and not powerful enough. Some said the main character, Tom, wasnt forceful enough. They said it wasnt powerful enough to move slavery and that she was being one-sided about slavery. Those who praised the book, said it made slavery seem more realistic and opened peoples eyes to what slavery was doing. Stowe responded to the critics by writing The Key to Uncle Toms Cabin. It stated her sources of Uncle Toms Cabin, therefore people couldnt say her information was false or that she was being one-sided. Harriet Beecher Stowe became an international celebrity after the publication of Uncle Toms Cabin (Impact of Uncle Toms Cabin, Slavery, and the Civil War). She travelled to Britain to seal rights for another novel of hers, and while she was there people crowded around her on the streets. She was given a 26-page petition signed by British women all over the world who were wanting Americans to end slavery. She was also invited to anti-slavery marches and rallies and was asked to speak before many people. However, she didnt like to speak it public, so she stood back as her husband and brother spoke on her behalf. Queen Elizabeth wanted to meet her, but Harriet declined. Queen Elizabeth still gave Stowe and her sister a ride out of the city so they wouldnt get rushed by city people(Impact of Uncle Toms Cabin, Slavery, and the Civil War). Harriets second anti-slavery novel was less influential than Uncle Toms Cabin but still a good piece of work. Dred, A Tale of the Great Dismal Swamp talks about abolition but doesnt have the outlook of an end to slavery (Harriet Beecher Stowe Dred: A Tale of the Great Dismal Swamp Essay- Critical Essays). Stowe directed this novel towards people in the south, where she directed Uncle Toms Cabin to those of the north. She focused on legal aspects of slavery as while as plantation life to try to expose the wrong doings of the said system. When people criticized this book, they said Stowe wasnt as inspired as she was when she wrote her first anti-slavery novel. Some said Dred was not as sentimental but more realistic than Uncle Toms Cabin. There were also critics who said Dred was less successful because Stowe lost confidence in the abolition of slavery. Harriet Beecher Stowe made many powerful movements through her writings. She proved women can speak out and make a difference. She started many riots and rallies for slavery, which eventually leaded to abolition of slavery all together. Her contribution to literature and the world will forever be remembered. As Uncle Toms Cabin is read in six different languages and is used all around the world in history and literature classes. Harriet Beecher Stowe died July 1, 1896 at 86 years old (Harriet Beecher Stowes Life). She is still known all around the world today. There are museums, landmarks, and her works still exist and are used today. The house she wrote Uncle Toms Cabin in in Maine was bought by Bowdoin College and restored. The house she lived in for the final years of her life is restored and is now a museum. It keeps Stowes items and a research library as well! Harriet Beecher Stowe is still an important woman in history more than a century later! Stowe accomplished so much with a pen and her words. Women of her time couldnt publicly speak, so writing was the way women got their thoughts and ideas out to the world. It is incredible to imagine the world we would be in without a simple piece of work that a young woman from Litchfield, CT published. Uncle Toms Cabin was one of the main reasons people started speaking out about slavery. If her writings werent around, would somebody else have raised their voice? Would we still have slavery? Would the bloodiest war in American history have taken place? It is amazing what one piece of writing can do for the world. References (Harriet Beecher Stowes Life) (Harriet Beecher Stowe Dred: A Tale of the Great Dismal Swamp Essay-Critical Essays) (Impact of Uncle Toms Cabin, Slavery, and the Civil War)