Socialism Essay Example for Free

Socialism Essay The years between 1815-1848 saw the rise of a number of related and competing ideologies, one of them being Socialism. Socialism sought economic equality for all, and was very much against the the Laissez Faire ideal of liberalism. There were different forms of socialism as it evolved over the years. Throughout the 19th century, Europe saw an uprising and evolution of socialism led by key names Karl Marx, Henri de Saint-Simon, Charles Fourier, and Robert Owen. It created equality for the majority of workers and prompted ideas of revolution. Socialism was partly rooted in the French Revolution, with a number of radical Jacobins taking the idea of political equality for all and moving it to the next step: economic equality for all through the common ownership of all property. The earliest socialist writers were coined â€Å"Utopian Socialists† by Karl Marx. Marx believed the earliest socialists offered non-scientific, unrealistic solutions to the problems of modern society. One of the influential early socialist thinkers was Count Henri de Saint-Simon. He argued the key to progress was proper organization. He also thought in highly moralistic terms. He said that every social institution must make improving conditions for the poor their main goal. In around 1830, another socialist thinker emerged: Charles Fourier. He took another approach. He was a fierce defender of freedom of choice. He established utopian communities, each with 1,620 people, where free love and voluntary unions were the norm. Many women were enthusiastic followers of Fourier because he was an early proponent of the total emancipation of women. The socialist Louis Blanc fought for a whole different right. He wanted the right to work. He believed the government should provide jobs when the private sector could not. These early Socialists birthed the ideology, but they had relatively little impact in comparison with Marx’s proletarian socialism. In 1848, Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels published The Communist Manifesto, which became the bible of socialism. Early Socialism was most prevalent in France, since it benefited the majority of citizens. It was mostly concentrated in France because early French utopian socialists interacted with the experiences of French urban workers. Workers cherished the memory of the radical phase of the French Revolution, and they despised the laissez-faire laws that denied workers the right to organize. Workers favored collective action and government intervention in economic life. These aspirations of the workers directly connected to utopian theorists, and a genuine socialist movement emerged in Paris in the 1830’s. From here, Karl Marx was left the task of establishing effective socialist foundations. Socialist ideas favored the working class, because the primary reason it started was to make the proletariats more equal to the bourgeoisie. Socialism looked at the free-market economies of Western Europe in the midst of the Industrial Revolution and saw exploited workers leading miserable existences while manufacturers profited enormously. Socialists felt that since the rich benefited so much, the poor should get some benefits too, since their labor supported the entire system. Karl Marx even predicted that the proletariat class would one day arise and supplant those capitalists who had exploited them. The Revolts of 1848 represented the power of the middle and lower classes. These revolts were started as an attempt to achieve universal male suffrage. The socialists showed the workers there is a solution to the severely divided social classes. The proletariats attempted to destroy the bourgeoisies for economic equality. The middle class were the victims and many lives were taken in 1848 during the horrific â€Å"June Days. Because of the lack of leadership and organization, the working class failed in their revolution. These revolts represented the idea of socialism but also showed how much power the upper classes possessed. It is almost impossible to have a perfect socialist society and the socialists and working class of 19th century Europe failed to create one. However, the revolts and ideas of socialist thinkers showed how important the working class is. Socialism is a very important factor in the history of the 19th century. That influence has extended into present days, where there are still socialist ideologies.

Motorcycle and financial services Essay Example for Free

Motorcycle and financial services Essay Abstract The strength of Harley-Davidsons brand and dominant market position give the firm a wide moat, in our opinion. However, weaker consumer spending and tight credit markets are presenting the firm with some significant near-term challenges. In addition, we believe the firm must carefully broaden the appeal of its brand to secure its long-term success. Harley-Davidson is a cult brand that resonates around the world. There are more than 1 million members of the Harley Owners Group, and every year several hundred thousand Harley fans attend biking events at Daytona, Fla. , and Sturgis, S. D. Its no wonder that over 50% of Harleys revenues are generated from repeat sales and these sales are at premium prices to other motorcycle brands. In addition, with almost a 50% share of the U. S. market, Harley also achieves economies of scale greater than most of its competitors. A Harley is not just a bike it is an investment. brand loyalty, its economies of scale, and its network of mostly exclusive dealers have created significant barriers to entry, and as a result, Harley has achieved historical operating margins of over 20% and returns on invested capital of over 40%, excluding the financial services segment. JIT Principles JIT is an operational strategy which helps in making inventory levels lean. An organisation which goes for synchronous manufacturing incorporates JIT to have lower inventory levels. Synchronous manufacturing encompasses techniques of JIT to achieve the target. Organisations which have implemented JIT and are using synchronous manufacturing have a very lean system. It has minimum wastage and the highest possible quality. These organisations are cost effective and generally have higher margins than their competitors. This results in higher level of efficiency in the organisation and a better work environment. BPI helps in management of inventory and related operations. It is very important that organisation understand the importance of new methods and reengineer their processes in line with the requirements. The minimum level of inventory which is required as WIP is determined by the organization and then control efforts are put in so that there is always the minimum level available and it would never cross the maximum level. This is done because one cannot hold high levels of inventory because it comes at a very high cost and is an occupational and can be a operation hazard. The strength of Harley-Davidsons brand and dominant market position give the firm a wide moat, in our opinion. However, weaker consumer spending and tight credit markets are presenting the firm with some significant challenges and we believe the firm must carefully expand the appeal of its brand to secure its long term success. Harley-Davidson is a cult brand that resonates around the world. There are more than 1 million members of the Harley Owners Group, and every year several hundred thousand Harley fans attend biking events at Daytona, Fla. , and Sturgis, S. D. Its no wonder that over 50% of Harleys revenues are generated from repeat sales and these sales are at premium prices to other motorcycle brands. In addition, with almost a 50% share of the U. S. market, Harley also achieves economies of scale greater than most of its competitors. The intensity of the firms brand loyalty, its economies of scale, and its network of mostly exclusive dealers have created significant barriers to entry, and as a result, Harley has achieved historical operating margins of over 20% and returns on invested capital of over 40%, excluding the financial services segment. Despite its strong brand, sagging consumer spending on high-ticket items is likely to continue to depress volumes in the near term, and we expect the economic downturn to prolong the period of failing sales through 2010/11. The firm has already cut production in an attempt to trim costs in line with faling demand. in addition, just over half of Harleys motorcycle revenues are derived from retail sales made on credit. We think that the lack of available funds on the wholesale markets and the shrinking of the number of qualifying customers will make it difficult for the companys financial services division to continue to support retail sales by providing credit to customers. Harley must address some long-term challenges. The firm has been focused on a narrow demographic group (around 89% of customers are male) and the median age of Harleys customers has been on a long-term upward trend. We believe that the firm must find ways to broaden the appeal of its brand without alienating its core customer base. Harley has grown in recent years in the international market , and revenues generated abroad have risen to 25% of total revenues in 2007 from 19% in 2004. Although the firm has recently introduced a performance motorcycle for the European market, I think that it may find it difficult to deliver customized products for overseas markets while supporting its brand franchise. Risk Harleys revenues could be severely hurt by a further weakening of the global economy and increased reductions in consumer spending on high-ticket discretionary items, and the firm may not be able to securitize its receivables if the asset-backed security market is slow to recover. Harleys sales are focused on a thin demographic segment: 35- to 54-year-old males. In our opinion, the firm must broaden its appeal in order to secure its long-term profitability, but any missteps in marketing its products to other demographic segments could damage the brand. Harley-Davidsons brand resonates around the world, and it has particular strength in its key target market of 35- to 54-year-olds. Â  Historically, Harley has generated free cash flow at around 15% of revenues, allowing the firm to develop a strong track record of returning cash to shareholders through dividends and stock repurchases. Â  Through the downturn, Harleys management has been careful to maintain spending on research and development and marketing, important steps in maintaining the strength of the brand, in our opinion. The firm has worked successfully with its network of dealers to significantly reduce dealer inventory over the last 12 months. Â  Harleys core demographic, the baby boomer generation, is aging, and thats likely to reduce demand for Harleys products in the future. In order to mitigate the negative impact on revenues, the firm must improve its penetration in other segments. * Harley is likely to continue to face some severe short-term head winds, with anemic consumer spending likely to hurt revenues through 2010. The large inventory of used Harley motorcycles is likely to contribute to Harleys near-term challenges, as a greater number of under-pressure consumers may opt for a cheaper used model in the secondary market. Â  The turmoil in the credit markets is likely to raise the cost of the short-term capital required to fund HDFS. Â  Despite raising the retail rate on its loans, I expect the operating margins of HDFS to come under severe pressure through 2009. HDFS may also find it difficult to raise financing for retail credit in the wholesale markets. This could restrict the number of loans the firm can make to customers and thwart the firms attempts to support retail sales volumes. Inventory Management in Harley Davidson Growth: Historically, the strong spending power of the baby boomers, Harleys core demographic, has been favourable for the motorbike manufacturer. As the baby boomers age, however, I expect slowing domestic revenue growth to be only partially mitigated by international expansion. Profile: Harley-Davidson is the worlds leading manufacturer of heavyweight motorcycles, parts, and accessories. It sells the Softail, Sportster, Dyna, Touring, and VRSC models under the Harley-Davidson name, and it also manufactures the Buell brand. Harley-Davidson Financial Services provides wholesale financing to dealers and retail financing and insurance brokerage services to customers. Strategy: Harley leverages its strong brand to sell a broad range of motorcycling-related products. The firm is attempting to broaden its appeal to more demographic groups by expanding its product line-up. It is also focused on international expansion, and it has introduced a new performance-based bike in an attempt to increase its share in overseas markets. Management: I think the quality of corporate governance at Harley-Davidson is above average. I applaud the firm for splitting the chairman and CEO roles between two individuals, although I am concerned that the relationship between the two individuals serving in these roles may weaken the chairmans ability to provide independent oversight. CEO James Ziemers career at Harley blossomed under the leadership of former CEO and current Chairman Jeffrey L. Bluestein. In addition, although nine of the firms 12 directors meet the NYSE definition of independent, a total of six of them have served on the board for over a decade, and I believe that their long-term relationships with management, together with some related-party transactions, may further compromise their independence. Having said that, the Harley-Davidson board does contain a solid range of legal, accounting, and executive experience. Management compensation is skewed to long-term incentive components, and I think that this aligns the interests of the management team with those of shareholders. The firm has a strong track record of returning cash to shareholders, both through dividend disbursements and share buyback programs. Harley Reports Lower 3Q Earnings I am leaving our fair value estimate for Harley-Davidson in place following the release of third-quarter earnings, which were in line with our expectations. Revenue fell 8% year over year, to $1. 42 billion, as the economic downturn hurt retail sales volume, which declined 14%. The bright spot was international sales, but only a small part of the 11. 3% rise in international revenues was attributable to volume increases; most of the increase was caused by favourable currency movements. At Harley-Davidson Financial Services, the customer finance division, third-quarter earnings fell 28% from the same period last year, to $35. 6 million, because of lower securitization income and the write-down of some finance receivables held for sale. I was pleased to note that the firm is being proactive in securing alternative sources of funding for the finance division, in the event that it cannot raise funds in the unsecured debt market. However, we expect that Harleys funding requirements would be met comfortably by its bank credit facility, if required. Supply side Economic Scenario Given the continued macroeconomic deterioration and tightness in credit markets, I am raising our fair value uncertainty rating for Harley-Davidson. The companys growth has decelerated during the last three years, and year-over-year shipments were down 15% last quarter. In addition, we see significant downside risks to the contribution from Harley-Davidson Financial Services. Last quarter, financial services income was down 43% because of a $20 million reduction in securitization gains. Financial income was also affected by a $6 million write-down in retained securitization interests. Since that time credit markets have seized up, and its likely the firm will report increasing charge-offs on consumer loans in the coming quarters. Summary Business process reengineering is very critical for companies and industries which survive on innovation. Sometimes there are cases when old processes in the company are dying and their is a pressing need to rejuvenate then. This process of is known as business process reengineering. A company that does not innovate dies out in the market. Old operations over time die down and new process needs to be rebuilt into the system. This is where the concept of business processes engineering is very critical. The objective of the paper is to critically evaluate symptoms which suggests organisation to go for business process reengineering then come up with one of those symptoms and write a detailed analysis of it. References: http://www. emeraldinsight. com. / Gao, F, Li, M. Clarke, S. (2008). Knowledge, management, and knowledge management in business operations. Nonaka, I. (2005). Knowledge Management: Critical Perspectives on Business and Management. Taylor Francis. Tait, A Richardson, K. A. (2010). Complexity and Knowledge Management Understanding the Role of Knowledge in the Management of Social Networks. IAP Goldman, A. (n. d. ). Eliminating Bottlenecks. Retrieved 28th March, 2011, from http://www. gaebler. com (n. d. ). Retrieved Mar 27th, 2011, from Customer Relationship MAnagement: http://www. customerthink.com (n. d. ). Retrieved Mar 27th, 2011, from More is not value Proposition: http://sinekpartners. typepad. com Auction site. (n. d. ). Retrieved MAr 27th, 2011, from Harley Davidson Value: http://harleyauctionsite. com Harley Davidson USA. (2011, MAr 27). Retrieved Mar 17, 2011, from Harley Davidson: http://www. harley-davidson. com Impact Factory. (2010, Feb 2nd). Retrieved mar 27th, 2011, from http://www. impactfactory. com http://www. h-dsn. com/genbus/links. jsp Management Research Review. (2000) Johan Van Nimwegen, Brian H. Kleiner, Volume 23 issue 7/8.

Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy (PRES)

Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy (PRES) Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy (PRES): A Rare Presenting Feature of Pheochromocytoma Abstract Hypertension in young is mostly due to secondary causes and one of them is pheochromocytoma. These are catecholamine secreting enterochromaffin tumors causing paroxysmal hypertension. Adrenal pheochromocytoma presenting as posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is very rare and has not been described in literature so far. Here, we report a case of previously healthy adolescent boy, who presented with acute onset severe headache, blurring of vision, generalized tonic clonic motor seizure and altered sensorium. His blood pressure was 234/126 mm Hg. The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of brain showed hyperintense signal on T2-weighted and fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) images in bilateral parietal and occipital regions. High blood pressure and classical MRI findings were consistent with the diagnosis of PRES. Abdominal ultrasonography (USG) revealed a right adrenal mass. A diagnosis of pheochromocytoma was confirmed by abdominal triple phase contrast- computed tomography (CT) and 24-hour urinary metanephrine assay. After the blood pressure was stabilized with alpha and beta blockade, adrenal tumor was surgically excised. Histopathologic examination of tissue confirmed the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma. The MRI brain showed complete resolution of hyperintense signals (T2-weighted and FLAIR images) on two-months follow-up. He was symptom free at six months and one year follow-up. Key words: Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES); Reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy (RPLE); Pheochromocytoma; Hypertensive Encephalopathy; Hypertension Abbreviations: ADC: apparent diffusion coefficient; CT: computed tomography; MRI: magnetic resonance imaging; DWI: diffusion-weighted imaging; PRES: posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome Introduction Hypertension in young is mostly due to secondary causes which include renal diseases (chronic renal failure, renal artery stenosis, polycystic kidney disease), coarctation of the aorta, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and endocrinopathies. Pheochromocytomas are rare catecholamine secreting enterochromaffin tumors. The patients of pheochromocytoma usually present with spells of headache, sweating and palpitations due to excessive catecholamines. The cerebral manifestation of pheochromocytoma are uncommon. Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) as a presenting feature of pheochromocytoma is rare. Case Report A 14-year-old previously healthy boy presented in emergency department with acute onset severe holocranial headache, blurring of vision, generalized tonic clonic motor seizure followed by altered sensorium. There was no previous history of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, flushing, excessive sweating, migraine, autoimmune and connective tissue disorders, drug abuse, toxin exposure, hypertension or diabetes mellitus. He had no similar illness in past and family history was negative. His pulse rate and blood pressure were 130 beats per minute and 234/126 mm Hg, respectively. He was confused but followed simple commands. The pupillary size and light reaction were normal on both sides. Fundus examination showed bilateral papilledema. He was moving all the four limbs equally without asymmetry on painful stimulus. Plantars were bilaterally extensor. Signs of meningeal irritation (neck rigidity and Kernigs signs) were negative. Complete hemogram, serum electrolyte, renal function tests and other biochemistry including thyroid function tests were normal. Serum anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA), anti-double-stranded DNA antibody (anti-dsDNA) and ELISA test for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) were negative. X-ray chest was normal. Electrocardiography (ECG) showed tachycardia. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of brain showed hyperintense signal changes on T2-weighted and fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) images in bilateral occipito-parietal regions. No restriction was seen on diffusion-weighted images (DWI) [Figure 1]. CT angiography of brain vessels was normal. High blood pressure and classical MRI findings were consistent with the diagnosis of PRES. On further evaluation, abdominal ultrasonography (USG) showed right adrenal mass. An abdominal triple phase contrast-enhanced CT scan revealed heterogeneous, contrast enhancing adrenal gland mass lesion measuring 32 x 26 mm suggestive of pheochromocytoma [Figure 2]. The diagnosis was confirmed by 24-hour urinary metanephrine assay. The plasma aldosterone concentration (PAC) and plasma renin activity (PRA) ratio (PAC/PRA) was 10.4. The 24- hour urinary normetanephrine was 31,572 Â µg/24 hour (normal: 63-402 Â µg/24 hour), urinary metanephrine was 1,524 Â µg/24 hour (normal: 32-167 Â µg/24 hour) and plasma noradrenaline level was 18,635 pg/mL (normal: 0-400 pg/mL). Patient was managed intensively with nitroprusside infusion to reduce blood pressure. Injectable phenytoin was administered according to body weight to control seizures. Once patient was stabilized, he was started on oral alpha-blocker prazosin (20 mg/day) followed by beta-blocker propranolol (40 mg/day). After adequate alpha and beta blockade, patient was planned for surgery and resection of adrenal mass was done. Histopathologic examination confirmed the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma without invasion of the adrenal capsule [Figure-3]. The MRI brain showed complete resolution of hyperintense signals (T2-weighted and FLAIR images) and 24-hour urine metanephrines were normal on two-months follow-up. He was asymptomatic at six months and one year follow-up. Discussion Pheochromocytomas are neuroendocrine tumors arising from chromaffin cells of the adrenal medulla or extra-adrenal paraganglia. The classical features like holocranial headache, palpitations, hypertension, hyperhidrosis, hyperglycemia and hypermetabolism are due to excessive catecholamines production in these tumors. The cardiac complications such as arrhythmias, myocardial infarction and sudden deaths are associated with cardiotoxic effects of high blood catecholamines levels. Pheochromocytoma is a rare cause of secondary hypertension and accounts for 0.5% to 2.0% of all causes of hypertension in children. The neurological complications (ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke) are related to increased platelet aggregation, hypertension and vasospasm due to high catecholamines levels. The various potential triggers of pheochromocytoma crisis leading to hemodynamic instability are stress, blood loss, surgery and anesthesia. The diagnosis of pheochromocytoma is confirmed by 24-hour urinary meta nephrine and normetanephrine levels. Clinical features of reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome (PRES) are acute onset headaches, vision loss, seizures and altered sensorium. It is mostly due to hypertension, however other common causes are chronic renal disease, uremic encephalopathy, ergot alkaloids, steroids, chemotherapy, vasculitis and tumors. Pheochromocytoma is one of the rare cause of PRES due to secondary hypertension. However, to the best of our knowledge, acute, life-threatening initial presentation of pheochromocytoma as PRES has not been described in literature. Magnetic resonance images (MRI) of brain typically shows hyperintense signal changes on T2-weighted and fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) images due to vasogenic edema. It mostly involves the cortical and subcortical white matter of the parietooccipital, frontal and temporal regions. Cerebral hemorrhage, cytotoxic edema and contrast enhancement are atypical imaging findings of PRES. The parietooccipital cortex and subcortical w hite matter were affected in our case. Classically, these signal abnormalities are reversible on antihypertensive therapy. The pathophysiology of PRES is still poorly understood, however, various hypothesis have been proposed. Severe hypertension causes deranged autoregulation of sympathetically mediated cerebral arterioles. It leads to increased permeability in the blood-brain barrier and causes vasogenic edema. Sympathetic innervation of the vertebrobasilar system is not as extensive or as complete as that of the anterior circulation. Therefore, PRES predominantly affects parietooccipital cortex and subcortical white matter. Other possible mechanism may be endothelial dysfunction due to circulating toxins or chemotherapy agents. There may be cerebral infarction or hemorrhage due to compromise of the microcirculation by pressure from surrounding vasogenic edema. The exact etiology of the seizure remains unknown, but may result from effects of the pheochromocytoma on reducing seizure threshold via its actions on metabolic or hypertensive parameters. Our patient had high levels of circulating catecholamin es, produced autonomously by tumor. Once vasogenic edema subsided with antihypertensive therapy, all the abnormal MRI findings vanished. Clinical topography (acute onset headache, visual blurring, seizure and altered sensorium), high blood pressure and typical MRI findings suggested diagnosis of PRES. In our patient, other differential diagnosis such as thrombocytopenic thrombotic purpura (TTP), hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), encephalitis, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), brain mass lesions and drug toxicity were ruled out by appropriate clinical and laboratory investigations. In our patient, hypertension was detected for the first time on hospital admission and before that he never had any symptoms like headache, palpitations, perspiration or diarrhea. Our patient is of clinical interest as pheochromocytoma presented with life-threatening hypertensive encephalopathy. Management of pheochromocytoma requires aggressive approach including fluid resuscitation and antihypertensive therapy (both alpha and beta blockade) followed by surgical resection of tumor. Conclusion Pheochromocytomas are catecholamine secreting enterochromaffin tumors causing paroxysmal hypertension. Our patient is of clinical interest as an acute, life-threatening hypertensive encephalopathy (PRES) as a presenting feature of adrenal pheochromocytoma has not been described in literature so far. Pheochromocytoma should be ruled out in every young patient with acute hypertensive encephalopathy. Figure Legends Figure 1. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of brain showing hyperintense signals on T2-weighted and fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) images in parieto-occipital region. No diffusion restriction is seen. [ T1-weighted axial (A), T2-weighted axial and sagittal (B,C), FLAIR (D), diffusion weighted (DWI) (E) and corresponding apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) (F) images]. These abnormal signals completely vanished on follow-up MRI after six weeks. Figure 2. Triple phase contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) of abdomen showing heterogenous enhancing mass lesion measuring 32 x 26 mm in right adrenal gland. [Axial CT: Arterial phase (A,B), Venous phase (C) and Delayed phase (D)]. Figure 3. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) stained microphotographs showing large pleomorphic nuclei, abundant basophilic cytoplasm and cell-nesting pattern (zellballen pattern). [HE stain 40x view (A), 100x view (B,C)]. 1

The Crucible: Hysteria And Injustice :: Essay on The Crucible

The Crucible: Hysteria and Injustice Thesis Statement: The purpose is to educate and display to the reader the hysteria and injustice that can come from a group of people that thinks it's doing the "right" thing for society in relation to The Crucible by Arthur Miller. I. Introduction: The play is based on the real life witch hunts that occurred in the late 1600's in Salem, Massachusetts. It shows the people's fear of what they felt was the Devil's work and shows how a small group of powerful people wrongly accused and killed many people out of this fear and ignorance. Also important to the play is how Arthur Miller depicts how one selfish, evil person like Abigail Williams can bring others down and make others follow her to commit evil acts. These evil acts affect even the most honest people in the town like John and Elizabeth Proctor, and Rebecca Nurse who cannot fight the accusations made against them by those following Abigail. Those following Abigail are considered to be holy men that are full of honesty and justice, but the play shows that even those who are thought to be respectable and right, like people of government or community leaders can bring death to innocent people if they are driven by something wrong. II. Plot: The plot begins with the inciting incident where Rev. Parris finds his niece Abigail Williams and his daughter Betty along with his slave Tituba doing some dance in the forest. Right when he finds them, Betty becomes sick and won't talk or open her eyes, about this time other people's daughters become sick too. Rumors spread that witch craft is involved in Betty's illness and the development of the plot begins. Important to the major development of the plot is the fact that in the forest, Abigail and the others were just playing like witches. But they were following Abigail because she wanted to try to put a curse on a lady named Elizabeth Proctor. Abigail was in love with Mrs. Proctor's husband, John Proctor, and she wanted to some how get rid of Elizabeth. The problem was that as the rumors spread about the devil Abigail went along with it and blamed the slave woman Tituba for forcing her to join the devil. The rising action begins when Tituba out of fear of death starts naming people that she says were with the devil when the devil came to her. This is all a lie though because once Abigail blamed Tituba she did not want to turn the story around and admit that she was lying in the first place because one, she was

The Overuse of Antibiotics :: Medicine Health Persuasive Essays

Thesis: With the advent of antibiotics in 1929 Fleming said, "The time may come when penicillin can be bought by anyone in the shops.Then there is the danger that the ignorant man may easily underdose himself and by exposing his microbes to non-lethal quantities of the drug make them resistant."With the overuse of antibiotics today we have seen this very idea come to be.Over usage is caused most prevalently by a lack of education on the part of the patient.Thus stated, the way to overcome such a circumstance is to educate, not only the patient but also the physician. Generally in life, an overabundance of anything is thought of as a blessing.For instance, most people would say that there is no point where someone has too much money, or too much time; however, having and using too many antibiotics can be a problem.With the advent of antibiotics in 1929 Fleming warned that, "The time may come when penicillin can be bought by anyone in the shops.Then there is the danger that the ignorant man may easily underdose himself and by exposing his microbes to non-lethal quantities of the drug make them resistant."[1]Following with Fleming's words antibiotics need to be prescribed in a judicious fashion, not of one with a careless action, "one third of the 150 million outpatient prescriptions are unnecessary."[2]With the overuse of antibiotics today we have seen this very idea come to be.Over usage is caused most prevalently by a lack of education on the part of the patient.Thus stated, the way to overcome such a circumstance is to educate, not only the phys ician but also the patient. Alexander Fleming started the history of antibiotics in the 1920's with his discovery of penicillin.When penicillin was first discovered and used widely, it was touted as a wonder drug, and consequently was used as one.Though not necessarily harmful to the patient penicillin was used for much more infections than it was able to combat.Today the same practice is observed in the medical profession, however at this point it is due more to the detriment of an uneducated public.Studies have been carried out that show the huge over usage of antibiotics.In the seventies Soyka et al, concluded, "60% of physicians surveyed gave antibiotics for the treatment of the common cold."[3], and by common knowledge the common cold is a virus, something that cannot be treated by an antibiotic.Nyquist

Religious Perspective of Cloning :: Argumentative Persuasive Topics

Religious Perspective of Cloning Many questions are raised about cloning a human being. It has moral and ethical issues and their affect on our society. The real question is, what is it to be a human being? Most of the organized religions' response to the issue of cloning is in an overwhelmingly negative fashion. They are not however outright eliminating the thought. Roman Catholics, Jewish, Protestants and other religions all have diverse opinions but there overall conclusions are the same. Their concerns are for the preservation of human dignity and the individual's freedom. Cloning is not only wrong it totally goes against the religious and biblical principles that have been deeply rooted for many centuries and have been past on from our ancestors many years ago. Cloning is condemned because of the violation of our dignity. Most religions are cautious against applying the new technology to humans, but for varying reasons. "Protestant theology emphasizes the view that nature is "fallen" and subject to improvement... But while they tend to support using technology to fix flaws in nature, Protestant theologians say cloning of humans crosses the line" (Herbert, Sheler and Watson 62). There are so many possibilities that cloning brings about; and most of them bring about nothing more than destruction of the human race. As we have known today and years ago, anything that is created with good intention will find it ways to destructive consequences. Religion has played a big part in our society today and will continue its role for many generations to follow. It is religion that provides us with moral and ethical senses. Once again we must seek their guidance. Roman Catholic Church argues their religious and ethical viewpoints. Their views are based largely on the interpretation of the story of creation. The dignity that has bestowed on us from God and cloning will violate our dignity as Godchildren. We are solely responsible for maintaining and preserving what God has created. "Cloned humans are manufactured in the image of existing people instead of created by a 'unique creative of God' " (Emig, Lau and Stone). Roman Catholics are strongly against any production of human cloning research, and believe an outright ban is needed. The Jewish on the other hand favor human cloning, with justifiable explanations. Their view on human cloning is based upon historical and sacred writings that focus on human destiny.

Company G’s Three Year Marketing Plan Marketing plan Essay

Company G’s develops electronic appliances based on current technology. The marketing plans exemplify the strategies employed and market segment to assign new consumers and create solid financial benefits while retaining the existing customers. G’s Company is a unique electronic appliance developer which gives an advantage over the competitors by exposing he customers to a new outlet of electronic appliances. This fulfills the real need of the competent electronic appliance developer and expands the company’s reach to populations who have no yet subscribed for our products. The company will fund the development of the electronic appliances by provision of consultation services for retailers willing to use products for promotional services. The consultations will come up with advertisement sponsorship for the company. In the initial 3 years of the business, we expect consultation services to form part of our revenue stream. Mission We enable consumers to improve the quality and convenience of their lives by providing innovative electronics solutions.† Product Description The first product of microwaves will come in three different sizes; compact, medium and large capacity microwaves. The new line microwaves will help the power designers and low noise amplifiers to shorten the design cycles as well as becoming consumer friendly with minimal environmental impact and energy saving. Furthermore, the demands of our customers in microwaves are based on quality products and convenience. Besides, the company will employ effective distribution channels intertwined with online purchasing. We hope this will make the company derive its mission home. Convenience products: Compact Microwave This will be a small, portable microwave available for the customers. Compacts are the dominant microwaves in the market today. Ours will measure 18 inches wide and 14 inches long and 12 inches tall. Compact ovens will be rated as 700 watts of power and capacitate 27 liters. The compact ovens will primarily be used for reheating food and preparing microwave popcorn and food. They are not made to cook large meals. Compact products will be price convenient hence the consumers will spend minimal time to compare due to our brand prestige. Shopping Products: Medium Capacity Microwave These microwave products a larger than compact microwaves. They will measure 20 inches wide, with the same length and height to the compact microwaves. They will carry 45 liters and run-up to 1000 watts. They will be the standard family microwaves with added grills and a few features. These microwaves will target those who want to do home cooking, essential, a growing family. The company market analysis reveals that capacity microwaves are less purchased and are bound to stay in the warehouse for a long time. Specialty Products: Large Capacity Microwave They will be the large cooking microwaves for preparing large meals. Their capacity will handle (9 by 13 inch) cooking tall items like roasts and casserole dishes. They will have an auto look with precise temperature control measures. The large capacity ovens will be powered by 2000 watts and contain 60 liters of capacity. With the uniqueness, the buyers are expected to expend ample time balancing the effort of purchase. However, the company brand prestige will enable the consumers to choose our products. Target Markets Direct consumer markets with arrangements of successful licensing of products and services. The company learned that the number of direct consumers have increased in the market. We hope for higher sales in the direct consumer markets with increased demand. The number of families has grown and the demand of the microwave has aloso grown in the market. Therefore, the compact and medium microwaves targets the increased number of families and singles. Nonmanufacturing and nonindustrial segments of the business to business market with customer networks such as hotels, family homes and institutions. The large capacity and medium capacity microwaves have brand prestige and that fits the personality and lifestyle of the customers. With the new line of microwave products, the consumers will make purchases due to the technological advances of the products. Large company and stand-alone retail companies with extensive dealer, broker or distribution network. Company G’s marketing brand will enable other like-minded microwave companies to purchase our products for re-sale. The brand prestige fulfills their needs from the feedback of the consumers. Competition Analysis Risk of Entry by Potential Competitors The market forecasts predict that the products of the company are likely to diffuse in the market faster than imagined. With many people buying the electronic appliances, the market may experience new entrants given the prevailing opportunity. This will increase the capacity of the industry and lead to stiff market competition hence lower the current costs. Given that the existent economic, governmental, cost advantage and brand loyalty barriers, the company is optimistic of controlling the market share even if new companies join the business. Rivalry among Current Competitors The electronic business has attracted many companies which have led for the struggle of the market share between G’s and the competitors. The cut-throat competition in the market leads to low-profit margins as the low-income consumers opt for a cheaper product in the market. Based on the presence of global customers, growth rate of the industry and demand conditions of the product, the company operates optimistically compared to other competitors with undefined establishment factors of brand. Bargaining Power of the Buyers The power of the consumers or distributors to bargain down the prices of the products poses a higher competition for the company. The company has established the target consumers to be high and middle-income earners. This population is usually driven by the quality of the products the company offers as opposed to the high prices charged. The high-income earners do not exhibit a high bargaining power as compared to their lower income earner counterparts. The industry will maintain the prices and try reducing the cost of production to maximize on their profit margins. The high-income and middle-income earners have the required information on our products and will emphasize on the quality of the products. Bargaining Power of Suppliers The suppliers of the company are on alert of increasing their bargaining power. Provided the high-quality of the products, the raw materials also come at a high price. The supplies, therefore, finds it unreasonable to increase their prices due to fixed prices. The only threat is the uniqueness of the products of the suppliers. They have a high cost of switching because of the basic need of their products. Threat of Substitute Products The company identified high-income and middle- income earners as their competent consumers. Provided the high-quality products, it is the pride of the company since customer satisfaction is guaranteed. The substitutes such as the saucepan, stoves and other microwaves such as Flavor microwave are technology unconscious hence the company maintains its prices for greater profits. SWOT Analysis Strengths Value pricing high quality, market orientation and support services and product customization Long-term relationships with primary suppliers High percentage of reorder business Weaknesses little room for expansion lack of employee talent management scarce human resource opportunities Strategic alliances Technological advances Easy distribution Threats Slow diffusion rate of appliance Alteration of traditional channel relationships Competition Strengths Core Competency Strengths The high percentage of reorder business implies customer satisfaction and promising word of mouth advertisement High quality innovative product- brand prestige. Other Strengths The long-term relationships with the primary suppliers have led to the knowledge share of product adherence to quality standards, requirement and a common mission through-out the production and development process. The differentiation strategy as a result of commitment to, value pricing, high quality, market orientation and support services and product customization Weaknesses Human resource management of the company predicaments in the near future. This is because, with the brand prestige, the company is likely to expand, however, there are limited qualified employees such as engineers in the job market. Company G’s current facilities are crowded; there is little room for additional employees or new equipment for expansion of the business. Lack of management of the employee talent that requires the company to create a department for nurturing the talents, this requires additional financial muscles the company may not afford any soon. Opportunities Strategic alliances that enhance the products of the company that will allow production of a myriad of new products, sharing of resources and increase the customer base. Technological advances have freed up time for consumers as well as bringing efficiency in product promotion and all product enquiries The medium and compact microwaves are easily distributed locally, nationally and globally. Business globalization creates an opportunity for new customer relationship establishment in foreign markets. Threats Slow diffusion rate of appliance may affect the sales return of the new products leading to low profits and low growth rate. Reengineering, outsourcing and resizing trends in product development may alter traditional channel relationships with dealers, brokers and distributors of eliminate them completely. Theft of brand piracy and trade secrets through unauthorized copying are difficult to control leading to unsecured branding. Competition from traditional microwave producers and other promotional items is strong. This poses a challenge to meeting the cost demands of production. Marketing Objectives Product Objective To commit to service and quality products to effectively implement the niche differentiation strategy in the diverse marketplace. The objective is a distinct and realistic to the company mission that will assist company G’s satisfy the customers. To improve the standard of the products the company offers now by incorporating the knowledge of the needs of customers and specific opportunities for offering the new products. To create new products that will use its new technology, equipment and knowledge base. Price Objective To verify the price of the new products and services to the customers. The objective is a distinct and realistic to the company mission that will assist company G’s satisfy the customers. To check the pricing of the competitors manufacturing microwaves To use the pricing of the competitor’s research to meet price marketing objectives Place Objective To define the most secured place of the new products To make a new product easily available to the consumers within 24 hours of manufacture using elaborate distribution channels for easy access by the customers hence focusing on the mission. To evaluate the degree of customer interaction with the new products Promotion Objective To conduct simple research and analyze substitute products with the aim of developing specialty advertising products that are technologically conscious, but not just calendar related. To better understand the satisfaction and needs of current customers through benchmarking on marketing research and company G’s marketing information system. The company will create a website page immediately where customers will post their feedback on the products. To use the product calendar as a promotional tool that will provide a microwave to the customers as advertisement premium. Marketing Strategy The marketing strategy of G’s company is focused on satisfaction of the prospect market and current consumers by providing the best microwave appliances in the market. The target market share based on projected demand and supply is also of our interest. With over 10 years of experience in the market, the workforce will provide the support needed by the customers to enable us meet our objectives. The knowledge and expertise from the employees from marketing and sales will provide the company with feedback for harmonizing the strategies based on the marketing objectives the company adopted. Distinct strategies Company G’s high quality products specialty product advertisement is customized to the needs of the consumers. The service and product value is reflected in the company’s premium price. The company will be sensitive to the elasticity of price of the products and overall demands of customers. G’s company will be sensitive to account for the place of new product distribution, product availability and the level of the consumer interaction with the microwaves. The company already had a brand that was well known by the customers. The brand prestige that focuses on the middle and high-income earners will be improved by producing the new satisfactory products. Product Strategy G’s company is committed to supplying affordable and quality wise products to the customers. Company G’s intangible attributes is its ability to meet or exceed the consistency of customers’ expectations, its anticipation of new customer needs and its responding speed to the demands of customers. Such intangible attributes are difficult for the competitors to copy, hence giving the company a competitive advantage. Boosting the consumer confidence. Some consumers are often hesitant to buy the product they have little knowledge about. The marketing campaign will emphasis on the quality and value of the products which will result to additional cash register Price Strategy Company G’s high quality products specialty product advertisement is customized to the needs of the consumers. The service and product value is reflected in the company’s premium price. The company will be sensitive to the elasticity of price of the products and overall demands of customers. The company’s new products have a prestige of high quality. The prices offered will account for warranties, endorsements and testimonials that will make the buying decision easier for the customer. The company will employ the trial and error method to fix the market prices, but remain flexible. The results of the new pricing initiative will be closely monitored to enable us expand the customer base. Place Strategy G’s company will be sensitive to account for the place of new product distribution, product availability and the level of the consumer interaction with the microwaves. The company intends to be flexible on the supplies, distribution and customer interactions. Such practices will promote planning and meet the deadlines of product sales. The company already had a brand that was well known by the customers. The brand prestige that focuses on the middle and high-income earners will be improved by producing the new satisfactory products. Promotion Strategy Approximately 80 percent of the company reorders every year, so the bulk of promotional expenditures will focus on new product offerings through publications, journals and direct-email advertising. The remaining promotional resources will be directed to personal selling of new products. This will enable the company cut on the costs and reduce wastage of financial and human resources. The company will conduct a campaign aimed at promoting a new product. To achieve this, the company will create logos and names of products while remaining within the advertising budget. Tactics and Action Plan G’s company and the new products require extensive customization to not only meet but exceed the needs of the customers. It is, therefore, necessary to reorganize the customer groups and market function. The new marketing strategies intend permit the company to invest their effort on marketing exclusively on specifications and the needs of the customer segments. Product action plan Tactic Due Date Responsible Party Develop marketing information system to monitor customer satisfaction by year two November 15th , 2014 Business Analysis Team Implement any changes implemented by the business analysis team November 15th , 2014 Business Analysis Team Develop new product offering with their potential customers November 15th , 2014 Production Manager Price action plan Tactic Due Date Responsible Party Create three sales manager positions November 1, 2014 President Develop marketing information system to monitor price feedback January 15, 2015 Marketing Director Evaluate the profitability of the new product February 15, 2015 Business Analysis Team Place Action Plan tactic Due Date Responsible Party Distribute free samples or discounted microwaves to orphanage institutions November 15th ,2014 Sales Manager Increase direct sales through sales representatives September 1, 2014 Sales Manager Increase sales of the products to individuals and re-sellers September 1, 2014 Sales Manager Promotion action plan Tactic Due Date Responsible Party Assign 3 research team on potential new products offering and client October 1, 2014 Marketing Director Analyze the current billing practices and cycles September 1, 2014 Marketing Director Design customer survey project September 1, 2014 Business Analysis Team Monitoring Procedures To evaluate the marketing plan effectiveness, the company will compare its actual performance with the objectives of the plans. The procedures include, however, not limited to the following; Monitoring Activity Due Date Responsible Party The use of project management concept procedure to evaluate marketing plan implementation through establishment of human resource needs, time, and budgetary expenditures November 15th, 2014 – December 15th, 20114 yearly Business Analysis Team Each project team will be responsible for determining the changes to be made in product focus from the result of studies from its area. The company will conduct internal audit to evaluate the activities. September 1, 2014 – October 15th, 20114 every year President A perceptual comparison of planned and actual activities will be conducted monthly through self assessment by the company business analysis team. Monthly Business Analysis Team Reference Luther, W. M. (2001). The marketing plan: How to prepare and implement it. New York: AMACOM. Source document