Determining Which Religion Is The Right - 959 Words

Determining which religion is the â€Å"right† one to follow is one of the most difficult tasks a person could undertake. Everyone wants to feel like his worship and praise of a deity is having some sort of positive effect on his life. From a Christian perspective, there are numerous positions in the theology of religion that its followers can choose from that attempt to explain the significance of Christianity within the context of all world religions. Three of the most prominent positions in this field of study are exclusivism, inclusivism, and pluralism. Major proponents of these perspectives are the theologians William Lane Craig, Karl Rahner, and John Hick, respectively. Grasping what each position advocates for is imperative not only for finding one’s own belief system, but for understanding the religious diversity around the world that is becoming more and more prevalent through globalization. Out of the three aforementioned theological positions, exclusivism is probably the most controversial. Typically prevalent in orthodox Christianity, an exclusivist Christian would posit that Christianity is the one true religion in the world. Psychologist David Myers further explains exclusivism, saying how it espouses the idea that, â€Å"there is no salvation apart from Christ,† and, â€Å"apart from faith in Christ Jesus as savior, one is condemned to hell (Myers 2003, 407).† William Lane Craig adds to this sentiment in a published article titled â€Å"No Other Name†, arguing that, â€Å"TheShow MoreRelatedEthical Systems1496 Words   |  6 PagesThere are seven different major ethical systems and they are: ethical formalism, utilitarianism, religion, natural law, ethics of virtue, ethics of care, and egoism. All seven of these ethical systems are dealt with on a daily basis and sometimes it is hard to determine which one you are dealing with. Ethical systems intertwine with one another and make up how humans respond and reac t to situations they are faced with every day. Each ethical system has its own way of coming across to each individualRead MoreCensorship As A Multi Million Dollar Market942 Words   |  4 Pagesdesired. Advertising which has a rich history that can be traced back to early cave paintings, is a medium for persuasion and is often used by businesses and organisations to promote their products and ideas. Advertising being a multi-million dollar market for promoting a wide array of ideas, however, does not have freedom in itself to promote all ideas. It is assumed that the guiding force behind a censorship act has the entire control to set what a society believes. Censorship which can be defined asRead MoreReligion And Its Impact On Society951 Words   |  4 Pages Religion to me is a set of beliefs and practices that can determine actions in everyday life by determining morals and deciding what is right and wrong in each society. This is a general idea that I believe has guided socie ties for centuries and has shaped today’s cultures. As we study cultures around the world, we can find significant influential factors dating back to a prominent religion that shaped the ideals of culture telling the people what is deemed acceptable practice and behavior and whatRead MoreThere Basic Concepts That Guide An Individual Throughout1285 Words   |  6 Pagesthe social identity theory. Thereof, valuing any religion fortifies the comprehension of culture, and freedom of religion aids in establishing societies self-identity. The Issue Rock of Ages and a Hard Space (2003) presents the topic of how society regulates religion. The issue consisted on whether the state can determine which studies they can provide funding s too. It is set that congress should not make laws in regard to establishing a religion or prohibiting the freedom to exercise it (RockRead MoreWhat is Morality? Essay596 Words   |  3 Pages† In other words, those who behave immorally due so out of mere ignorance, not defiance. Furthermore, Plato believed that a moral person is a truly happy person; and because people always desire their own happiness, they always desire to do that which is moral. While both theories of morality are appealing and rather convincing, neither attempts to define exactly what it is. Morality is synonymous to many words: decency, goodness, integrity, honor, and virtue. Yet all of these words are justRead MoreCivil Rights Vs. Civil Liberties1259 Words   |  6 PagesPayton Kirk Professor Sherry Sharifian GOVT-2305-71430 24 September 2017 Assignment One: 1 Civil Rights Vs. Civil Liberties As a citizen of the United States, one is granted many protections under law. 2 These protections consist of Civil Rights and Civil Liberties. Varying based on the person, these rights are very valuable and ensure that an individual free of harm for certain situations. Civil Rights and Civil Liberties have evolved over the years as our country continues to further its developmentRead MoreThe Chosen by Chaim Potok Essay523 Words   |  3 Pagesthe religion of Judaism and the different trials Jews had to go through. Throughout this book, many thoughts and ideas can get the readers attention, but the most appealing idea is the decisions that Danny Sanders had to make. Danny struggles with culture expectations concerning his dress, the decision to follow the Hasidic family tradition, and keeping his Jewish faith. Despite the pressures and expectations, Danny must express that he has a mind of his own and he has to determine which roadRead MoreThe C ase Of Brown V. Board Of Education Essay793 Words   |  4 Pagesout the obstruction of parent s rights presented in the Fourteenth Amendment, and ultimately led to the ruling of all schools becoming integrated. Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka, Kansas, 349 U.S. 294 (1955) Fourteenth Amendment This amendment gives all persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the state wherein they reside. No state shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges orRead MoreThe New York City Hospital Setting1365 Words   |  6 Pagesunderstand Indian culture and customs, India’s long history is used as a foundation. Numerous religions were founded in India. These religions are Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism, and Jainism. Other religions have also played influences in shaping Indian culture such as Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. Henceforth, religion is intertwined with customs and traditions. Therefore, this discussion will defer to religions as the main factor of cultural diversity and sensitively addressing issues. The officialRead MoreThere Are Clear Violations Of The Shiner s Rights1722 Words   |  7 PagesThere are clear violations of the Shiner’s rights. Although the Shiners are considered to be a secession group, they are still protected under the Fourteenth Amendment (Lash, 2014). Despite the fact that the Shiners wanted to live by their own governed laws and practice their own religion, they are still United States Citizens (Wellman, 2014). According to the Fourteenth Amendment, any individual that was born or naturalized in the United States, are citizens of the United States and whichever State

Mgmt 1 Free Essays

Project Charter Template GenRays HRIS System Project Charter GenRays 3/1/2012 Table of Contents Project Title Purpose Description Objective Success Criteria or Expected Benefits Funding Major Deliverables Acceptance Criteria Milestone Schedule Approval Requirements Project Manager Authorized by Project Title GenRays HRIS System Purpose Based upon stakeholder interviews the purpose for the HRIS system is to improve productivity, improve communication with potential employees, improve recruitment of qualified candidates, improve payroll efficiency processes, and improve overall Human Resource processes. Description The HRIS project will provide a significant boost to the overall human resources and payroll processes. By providing an automated online system for applications, potential candidates for positions may easily monitor the application process. We will write a custom essay sample on Mgmt 1 or any similar topic only for you Order Now In addition to this benefit, the updated employee database could be used to automatically fill out electronic forms and allow integration of multiple enhancements such as a leave system, employee training management, data reporting capabilities and employee monitored career paths. Objective We will work with the Information Technology, Human Resources, and Payroll departments to determine the best product that meets the needs of all units involved. By reviewing the available solutions and determining the overall expectations of the company as a whole, we may select a solution that provides for the expectations of those units. After the selection process we will work with the same units to configure the HRIS solution specifically for GenRays and the track the outcomes of the implementation. Success Criteria or Expected Benefits Implementation of the HRIS System will address the following expectations:  ·Provide a career track for existing employees  ·Increase payroll process efficiency and productivity  ·Provide an online application solution with tracking capability  ·Provide more transparency in hiring  ·Provide enhanced review of job applicant credentials  ·Process payroll automatically  ·Process expense reports automatically  ·Enhance recruiting capabilities  ·Improve productivity in relation to electronic forms  ·Reduction of data entry error for payroll Provide a standard performance review system while reducing paperwork  ·Integrate performance reviews with a standard compensation schedule  ·Provide a standard position control system  ·Integrate performance reviews with training to evaluate training outcomes  ·Provide a leave management system  ·Provide an enhanced employee communication system  ·Reduce overall number of database systems managed Funding The funding for the HRIS project should be address by the VP of Finance. Generally, because the project supports that area most directly, the project ost should be assumed by that unit. It is possible that the CEO may be willing to fully fund the project due to his interest level. It is also possible that the project may be jointly funded with several units providing funding for their area of interest. For example, the HR unit may elect to absorb the cost of the HRIS system software license and associated internal personnel required for the project. Moreover, the IT unit may absorb the cost of the database migration and any human capital associated with the migration. Major Deliverables  ·Selection of HRIS Software Development of forecasted and estimated budget  ·Implementation of HRIS Software into test environment  ·Implementation of career tracking configuration  ·Implementation of payroll automation  ·Implementation of online applications  ·Implementation of performance review syst em  ·Implementation of employee communication system  ·Implementation of data analysis and reporting capabilities  ·Implementation of HRIS Software in production environment  ·Migration of existing data into database Acceptance Criteria  ·Selection of HRIS Software oReview of proposals and features of software. Selection by project stakeholders including CEO, VP Finance, VP Marketing, IT Director, HR Director, VP Manufacturing and Plant Managers.  ·Development of forecasted and estimated budget oReview of proposals, human capital and budget allotments for procurement. Involving project stakeholders including CEO, VP Finance, VP Marketing, IT Director, HR Director, VP Manufacturing and Plant Managers.  ·Implementation of HRIS Software into test environment oImplementation of Software by solution provider and IT unit.  ·Implementation of career tracking configuration Configuration, training and testing by HR and IT.  ·Implementation of payroll automation oConfiguration, training and testing by Accounting (payroll) and IT.  ·Implementation of online applications oConfiguration, training and testing by HR, Marketing and IT.  ·Implementation of performance review system oConfiguration, training and testing by HR and IT.  ·Implementation of employee communication system oConfigurati on, training and testing by HR and IT.  ·Implementation of data analysis and reporting capabilities oConfiguration, training and testing by HR and IT. Implementation of HRIS Software in production environment o Implementation of Software by solution provider and IT unit.  ·Migration of existing data into database oImplementation of Software by solution provider and IT unit. Milestone Schedule  ·Selection of HRIS Software oReview of proposals and features of software. Selection by project stakeholders including CEO, VP Finance, VP Marketing, IT Director, HR Director, VP Manufacturing and Plant Managers.  ·Development of forecasted and estimated budget oReview of proposals, human capital and budget allotments for procurement. Involving project stakeholders including CEO, VP Finance, VP Marketing, IT Director, HR Director, VP Manufacturing and Plant Managers. Milestone 1 (Selection and Budgeting – February 1, 2013) – Approvals by CEO, VP Finance, VP Marketing, IT Director, HR Director, VP Manufacturing and Plant Managers for HRIS selection and budget. From this point procurement of the HRIS solution and management of procurement begins.  ·Implementation of HRIS Software into test environment oImplementation of Software by solution provider and IT unit.  ·Implementation of career tracking configuration Configuration, training and testing by HR and IT.  ·Implementation of payroll automation oConfiguration, training and testing by Accounting (payroll) and IT.  ·Implementation of online applications oConfiguration, training and testing by HR, Marketing and IT.  ·Implementation of performance review system oConfiguration, training and testing by HR and IT.  ·Implementation of employee communication system oConfiguration, training and testing by HR and IT.  ·Implementation of data analysis and reporting capabilities oConfiguration, training and testing by HR and IT. Milestone 2 – (Configuration and Testing – August 15, 2013) – Approval to move into the production environment after confirming configuration and expectations to be completed by CEO, VP Finance, VP Marketing, IT Director, HR Director, VP Manufacturing and Plant Managers.  ·Implementation of HRIS Software in production environment o Implementation of Software by solution provider and IT unit.  ·Migration of existing data into database oImplementation of Software by solution provider and IT unit. Milestone 3 (Training – October 1, 2013) – Delivery of training to all employees utilizing the system. Milestone 34(Go Live – October 15, 2013) – Approval by IT unit that all features function correctly and are certified for quality. Approval Requirements Overall the assigned portions of the project need to be approved by the individual units as identified in the acceptance criteria section. Because individuals from the stakeholder areas are responsible for assisting in the configuration and training portions of the project these areas will require approvals as they are completed. In addition, the overall project will require sign-off from all stakeholders in order to verify that expectations are met and we may implement into a production environment. In relation to change, a change management process will be put in place with direct approval coming from the Project Manager. The project manager will work to ensure that the expectations are reasonable, adhere to the scope, and are a technical feature of the selected HRIS solution. Once the project reaches the closing phase a final approval is required from the President and CEO indicating project completion. Project Manager Dara S. Fann Authorized by Date: How to cite Mgmt 1, Essay examples

Decision Making is a Paramount Component Especially

Question: Discuss about the Decision Making is a Paramount Component Especially. Answer: Introduction: Decision making is a paramount component especially, of small business successes. Decisions which tend to be based on the groundwork of both sound reasoning and knowledge which can lead an organization into long term prosperity. On the contrary, decisions which are made on the basis of incomplete information, emotionalism, and flawed logic that can promptly put a given small organization out of order. This means that bad decisions can and may cripple huge capital-rich organizations over time. Moderation of a decision-making process refers to the process is a process whereby concerned parties share their respective understanding as well as expectations of what is appropriate for both parties, what the type quality outcomes ought be and not to mention, what criteria should define it (Blascovich, Ernst, Tomaka Kelsey, n.d.). Moderation of a decision-making process is very quintessential because it assists the concerned parties to boost the dependability of the agreed upon assessment in formation which had been gathered. It is also important because moderation between two or more parties assists the latter to either develop or improve respective perks of the issues at hand over and above their skills (Blascovich et. al. n.d.). Moderation of a decision-making process tends to have a uniquely positive impact on the potential final decision as both parties are inclined to develop shared understanding and expectations of what the issue at hand ought to be. Moderation is also quite valuable mainly due to the verity that both the parties assessment capabilities can be enhanced. Jenny recently commenced work as a receptionist as a large law firm. She has been asked to answer the telephone and to transfer the calls to the appropriate section of the firm. Jenny receives several calls and needs to transfer each on to the section of the firm which can best deal with the legal issue which arises. To which section of the law firm should Jenny transfer each call? Legal Issue Relevant section of the firm Jonathan needs someone to draft a contract dealing with the proposed merger between two companies. Company law of business association (Blascovich et. al. n.d.).). Tommy has a contract dispute which is likely to end up in court. Contract law department. Bettina has been charged with a serious assault. Criminal law department. The owner of Billy-o Bait Shop has been asked to attend mediation by a disgruntled employee. Alternative dispute resolution. Julie needs assistance to apply for a trademark. Intellectual property. Rebecca needs advice about payroll tax. Tax law. James wants a will. Law of succession. Susan is considering purchasing an accounting business and wants advice. Law of business association (Blascovich et. al. n.d.).). Reference Blascovich, J., Ernst, J. M., Tomaka, J., Kelsey, R. M. (n.d.). attitude accessibility as a moderator of autonomic reactivity during decision making. Journal of Personality Social Psychology. Vol. 64(2). Pp. 165 176.

Unemployment in Greece free essay sample

The occupational structure of Greece has changed in the 20th century because of increased industrialization and urbanization. Since the 1960s, the number of rural workers has dropped considerably. Overall, the employment numbers reflect various sectors contribution to the GDP, with most Greeks employed in the service sector (59. 2 percent) and lesser numbers in industry (21 percent) and agriculture (19. 8 percent), according to 1998 estimates in the 2000 CIA World Factbook . Greeces total labor force numbered 4. 32 million in 1999, when unemployment was estimated at 9. percent. Generally, more men work in the industry sector while women dominate the service and agriculture industries. Greek women tend to have higher unemployment rates than men and are on average paid less. For additional income many Greeks work in seasonal or nonpermanent agricultural or service industry positions. For example, a craftsman may also work at a tourist site during the summer. Public-sector employees may often take a second job in the evening. We will write a custom essay sample on Unemployment in Greece or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page Second jobs often complicate the way employment and unemployment figures are measured within the various sectors of the Greek economy. In the Greek workforce, labor unions have been active throughout the 20th century. But unions have been subject to legal restrictions by successive Greek governments who considered unions a threat to domestic economic stability. Organization is centered on a particular trade or craft within a community. Local chapters are generally affiliated with national federations, which in turn are organized under the umbrella of the General Confederation of Greek Workers (GSEE). While not popular with the Greek people or government, trade unions can yield considerable political power. For example, when the New Democracy administration was in office in 1992, labor unions staged strikes following the privatization of the Urban Transportation Company, putting the government on the defensive. However, the GSEE has been instrumental in establishing pay increases and other labor benefits, which have benefited the country as a whole. One of the by-products of industrialization in Greece was the development of an underground economy , which includes unreported economic activities that are not subject to taxation. Given Greeces large service sector, there are a number of retail and small family businesses that are unregulated and untaxed by the government, and it is difficult to track the number of unpaid family members working in these businesses. Estimates of the Greek underground economy are at 50 to 60 percent of the officially reported economy, meaning that income and employment figures in Greece are actually significantly higher than the official estimates. While this unofficial sector provides employment and income to many that would otherwise be jobless, it undermines the modernization of the countrys fiscal system and the development of an internationally competitive Greek economy. Current Employment Conditions In Greece: Employment in the Greek commerce sector shrank by over 12 per cent in the past year and there is going to be no improvement in 2013, a report by the sectors main association claims. In a preview of its annual report, the National Confederation of Greek Commerce (ESEE) says the sector lost 93,500 jobs in the past year, or 12. percent, with the total number of employees in the sector, at 673,400, the lowest since 1999. The report says that most jobs were lost at bigger commercial firms; 8 in 10 small firms chose not to lay off personnel. According to the report, 7 out of 10 businesses expect sales and profits to slide further in 2013, while 6 out of 10 struggle to meet payments. However, tourism remains one of the mai n stays of the Greek economy, making up more than 15% of GDP. In the Greek islands, such as Crete, figures are much higher, with up to 40% of the local population employed either directly or indirectly in the tourism industry. Each year Greeces tourism industry employs thousands of summer workers in tourist related services and, although the number of jobs may be fewer compared to previous years, there is still a demand for English speaking workers, particularly during the height of the season in July and August. Greeces jobless rate rose to a fresh quarterly record of 20. 7 percent in the last three months of 2011, reflecting the countrys deep economic malaise, exacerbated by austerity to repair public finances and emerge from a debt crisis. Greece secured a new 130 billion euro bailout from its euro zone partners and the IMF this week, after agreeing further painful budget cuts. But the labor markets sharp deterioration is feeding public discontent and hurting consumer confidence. Statistics agency ELSTAT data showed jobs being shed at a fast pace as unemployment rose from 17. 7 percent in the third quarter and 14. 2 percent in the last quarter of 2010. The quarterly unemployment data reflect the deepening pace of the domestic economic contraction. Considering that unemployment is a lagging indicator, we should not rule out a further rise in the jobless rate in the months ahead, said EFG Eurobank economist Platon Monokroussos. Young people have been hardest hit by the countrys protracted economic recession. Almost four in ten people in the 15-to-29 age group were out of work, data showed, up from 28 percent in the same period a year earlier. One of the worst affected economic sectors is construction, where employment dropped 19 percent year-on-year. Greeces 215 billion euro economy slumped by 7 percent in 2011 and is projected to remain in recession for a fifth consecutive year in 2012. The economic downturn is making it harder for the government to meet revenue targets and cut the budget gap, raising the risk that further belt-tightening may be necessary. It will be difficult to stabilize the trend in the first half of 2012. The main hopes for a slowdown in the trend rest on the summer months when there may be an improved picture because of tourism and exports, said National Bank economist Nikos Magginas. ELSTAT said the number officially unemployed reached 1,025,877 in the fourth quarter, an increase of 44. 1 percent year-on-year and of 16. 8 percent from the third quarter. Greeces December unemployment rate was almost double the 17-country euro zones seasonally adjusted average of 10. 6 percent, but is still lower than 22. 9 percent seen in Spain in the fourth quarter. | | | [pic] Fig: Greece Unemployment Rate The unemployment rate in Greece was last reported at 25. 4 percent in August of 2012. Historically, from 1998 until 2012, Greece Unemployment Rate averaged 11. percent reaching an all time high of 25. 1 percent in July of 2012 and a record low of 7. 2 percent in June of 2008. The unemployment rate can be defined as the number of people actively looking for a job as a percentage of the labour force. Structure Of Employment In Greece: The structure of employment in Greece corresponds only roughly to the structure of the national product. According to the labor survey (1991), som e 22 percent of the employed population worked in agriculture, 28 percent in industry, and 50 percent in services. Comparison with the corresponding percentages for the participation of the three sectors in the national product indicates that agriculture is more labor-intensive than the other two sectors, but productivity is lower in agriculture and there is substantial underemployment in the agricultural labor force. An important characteristic of the Greek employment structure is the division of the working population into groups of occupational status. Thus, in 1989 about 5. 6 percent of the working population were employers, and 51. 4 percent were wage and salary earners. The balance was made up of 28. percent who were self employed and 14. 3 percent who were unpaid family members occupied in a family business. The relatively high percentages in the last two categories are typical of a society featuring many very small business firms run on a family basis together with a large service sector. The large number of individuals employed in seasonal or nonpermanent agricultural and service positio ns means that it is quite common for people to work at more than one gift. Thus, for example, a farmer or an urban craftsman may also provide tourist services in the summer. Double occupations are even encountered among public-sector employees who take second jobs in the evening. Besides creating a certain fluidity in a workers social role, this tendency complicates the measurement of productivity and unemployment in various sectors of an economy. Unemployment During the Greek Economic Crisis from 2008 to 2011: There were 1,025,900 unemployed people according to the Greek Statistical Authority, as the unemployment rate reached 21%. Who are the unemployed and how has their composition changed in this crisis? pic] Gender: There are as many unemployed men (49. 5%) as women, even though the unemployment rate for women (25%) is higher than that for men (18%). Due to higher male unemployment, the ratio between female and male unemployment has changed: while males generally accounted for 40% of the total people who are unemployment, they now make up 50%. [pic] Age: Around 41% of the people who are unemployed are aged 30 to 44, bracketed on either end by the peo ple who are 25-29 (20% of the total unemployed) and 45-64 (23% of the unemployed). The rise in unemployment during the economic crisis has been driven by a big increase in the number of people aged 30-44 who are unemployed – in fact, around 42% of the people who have become unemployed between 2008 and 2011 were in this age group. There have been smaller but equally noticeable increases in the people who are unemployment aged 25-29 and 45-64. When it comes to unemployment rates for various age groups, however, the story is different. The incidence of unemployment is highly correlated with age as younger groups have higher unemployment rates than older ones and with females having higher unemployment rates than men. For young people, the unemployment rate ranges from 48% to 59% for men and from 55% to 70% for women, underscoring the difficulty in finding jobs for people who are just starting their careers. [pic] Education: Around 37% of the people who are unemployed are people whose education extends just to a high school diploma. This group also accounts for 38% of the growth in unemployment between the end of 2008 and the end of 2011. After people with only a secondary education, people with a vocational degree make up the second largest unemployed group, making up 20% of the total. Regarding unemployment rates, people with all educational levels have seen a marked increase in their unemployment rates, ranging from a 131% increase in the unemployment rate of people with a vocational degree to a 218% increase for people with only a primary education (the growth for people with no primary education is greater, but this is really due to the very small volume of people in that category, making up less than 0. 5% of the total). pic] Duration: Chronic unemployment (when someone has been looking for a job for over 12 months) has been a chronic problem for Greece. In fact, people who have been unemployed for over 12 months have always made up anywhere from 40% to 60% of the total unemployment pool. Since 2008, there has been a rise in unemployment duration for all types – from very short term (1 month), to medium t erm (up to a year) and long term. by the end of 2011, 55% of the unemployed have been so for over a year. Sector: In the three years from 2008 to 2011, the Greek economy has shed 657,000 jobs. Three sectors which make up 34% of the country’s total employment (there are 21 sectors in total) accounted for 67% of the lost jobs, led by construction (160,000 jobs lost), manufacturing (146,000) and then wholesale and retail trade (111,000). There were also some sectors where employment actually grew through â€Å"financial and insurance activities† and â€Å"human health and social work activities. † Region: Of the people who are unemployed, 40% live in the Attica region (which includes Athens), a share that is slightly higher than its population (36%). Central Macedonia makes up another 18% of the total employed population, roughly on par with its 17% of the population. In terms of unemployment rates, the Peloponnese, Northern Aegean and Crete tend to (and continue to) rates below the national average, while Macedonia and Sterea Ellada are above the national average. [pic] Labor Costs: The average monthly labor cost has been declining consistently since early 2010 at an average rate of 3. 4% on a year-on-year basis. But in 2011, there was a much more significant decline of 14. 9% Relative to the eak, labor costs have come down by about 18%, thus correcting some of the competitiveness adjustment necessary to correct the imbalance that was created earlier in the decade. Overall profile: An unemployed person in Greece is as likely to be a man as a woman. There is a 41% chance that they are 30 to 44 years old, and there is a 37% change that they have only a high school diploma. They are 55% likely to have been unemployed for over a yea r, they are likely to have lost their jobs from construction, manufacturing or wholesale and retail trade, and they most likely live around the major urban centers in Athens or Thessaloniki. As for the people who are employed, their cost to employers has gone down by about 18% on average as a result of lower wages or lower indirect payments. Reasons Of Unemployment Crisis In Greece: By the end of 2009, as a result of a combination of international and local factors the Greek economy faced its most-severe crisis since the restoration of democracy in 1974 as the Greek government revised its deficit from an estimated 6% to 12. 7% of gross domestic product (GDP). [pic] Fig: Greek public debt 1999-2010 compared with Eurozone average In early 2010, it was revealed that through the assistance of Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase and numerous other banks, financial products were developed which enabled the governments of Greece, Italy and possibly other countries to hide their borrowing. Dozens of similar agreements were concluded across Europe whereby banks supplied cash in advance in exchange for future payments by the governments involved; in turn, the liabilities of the involved countries were kept off the books. This had enabled Greek governments to spend beyond their means, while meeting the deficit targets of the European Union. In May 2010, the Greek government deficit was again revised and estimated to be 13. 6% which was the second highest in the world relative to GDP with Iceland in first place at 15. 7% and Great Britain third with 12. 6%. Public debt was forecast, according to some estimates, to hit 120% of GDP during 2010. As a consequence, there was a crisis in international confidence in Greeces ability to repay its sovereign debt. In order to avert such a default, in May 2010 the other Eurozone countries, and the IMF, agreed to a rescue package which involved giving Greece an immediate â‚ ¬45 billion in loans, with more funds to follow, totaling â‚ ¬110 billion. In order to secure the funding, Greece was required to adopt harsh austerity measures to bring its deficit under control. On 15 November 2010 the EUs statistics body Eurostat revised the public finance and debt figure for Greece following an excessive deficit procedure methodological mission in Athens, and put Greeces 2009 government deficit at 15. 4% of GDP and public debt at 126. 8% of GDP making it the biggest deficit (as a percentage of GDP) amongst the EU member nations (although some have speculated that Irelands in 2010 may prove to be worse). The financial crisis – particularly the austerity package put forth by the EU and the IMF – has been met with anger by the Greek public, leading to riots and social unrest. Despite the long range of austerity measures, the government deficit has not been reduced accordingly, mainly, according to many economists, due to the subsequent recession. Consequently, the countrys debt to GDP continues to rise rapidly. The Greek public sector continues to be bloated, but the government has been reluctant to make civil servants redundancies. Immigrants are sometimes treated as scapegoats for economic problems by far-right extremists. In 2011 it became apparent that the bail-out would be insufficient and a second bail-out amounting to â‚ ¬130 billion ($173 billion) was agreed in 2012, subject to strict conditions, including financial reforms and further austerity measures. As part of the deal, there was to be a 53% reduction in the Greek debt burden to private creditors and any profits made by Eurozone central banks on their holdings of Greek debt are to be repatriated back to Greece. A team of monitors will be based in Athens to ensure agreed reforms are put into place and three months worth of debt repayments are to be held in a special account. Consequences Of The Unemployment Crisis: Several consequences of the economic crisis in Greece are discussed below: †¢ Greeces depression Amid a debt crisis, a crippling recession and ugly levels of unemployment, Greece is now struggling with a rise in suicides and an HIV outbreak. Greece’s debt troubles have raged for about three years now, prompting its governments to take severe austerity measures that are choking the economy and driving up unemployment, which now stands at 25 per cent. About half of its young people can’t find work, and social unrest is widespread. Amid these troubles, attempts of suicide climbed to more than 925 last year. By the end of August, this year’s rate was already at 690. Today, authorities cited the outbreak of HIV in Greece, particularly in Athens, and warned that the economic troubles plaguing the region will hamper prevention across Europe. â€Å"Since 2011, Greece has been experiencing a significant outbreak of HIV among people who inject drugs in Athens,† the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control said in a lengthy report. In the first eight months of 2012, for the first time the number of new cases reported among people who inject drugs exceeded the number of new cases reported among men who have sex with men. The outbreak among people who inject drugs is likely due to a combination of factors, the most important being low levels of preventive services prior to the outbreak. HIV in Greece has been â€Å"a pattern of low-level, concentrated epidemic,† the agency said. Since it was first reported in the 1980s, infections climbed by 2011 to 7. 3 per 100,000 people. The ongoing HIV outbreak is occurring at a time when Greece is experiencing a severe financial crisis,† the group noted. Although the extent to which the financial crisis has contributed to the outbreak is unclear, it is evident that the crisis has a significant social and health impact on the population of Greece. In addition, the response to the HIV outbreak by public authorities and NGOs is being managed in the context of socia l uncertainty, with exceedingly scarce financial resources. Prevention could be hurt in other parts of Europe by the â€Å"economic turmoil,† the agency added. There is a continuous need to keep public health and preventative services on the agenda even in challenging economic times so that long-term, high-cost burden to the health system can be averted. †¢ Euro zone jobless rate at a fresh high Unemployment in Europe continues to inch ever higher amid the debt crisis and recessions in some countries, such as Greece. The jobless rate in the 17-member euro zone climbed in October to 11. 7 per cent from 11. 6 per cent a month earlier, with almost 19 million people out of work. In the wider, 27-member European Union, unemployment rose to 10. 7 per cent, also up a notch, with an estimated 26 million people struggling to find jobs, according to the Eurostat agency. Unemployment among young people also worsened, hitting 23. 9 per cent in the euro zone and 23. 4 per cent in the EU. As always, the differences among European economies was stark, highlighting how the periphery is suffering, in particular. The highest rates of unemployment were again in Spain and Greece, at 26. 2 per cent and 25. per cent, respectively, though the latter is an August reading. The lowest were in Austria, Luxembourg and Germany, at 4. 3 per cent, 5. 1 per cent and 5. 4 per cent. This rising unemployment rate is likely to further weigh on the collective economies across Europe and further keep the pressure on bank balance sheets, CMCs Mr. Hewson said before the numbers were released. We’ve already seen this week that Spanish banks will have to shed over 6,000 jobs putting furth er upwards pressure on the rate in that country, as well as further pressure on the non-performing loan rate. †¢ Vulnerable Groups Hardest Hit Much of the media focus in recent years has been on ‘the new poor’. While it is undoubtedly true that many people who previously believed themselves to be secure are now falling into poverty, many of those who have been worst hit come from distinct vulnerable groups – in particular, people already experiencing poverty before the crisis, young people, people who are educationally disadvantaged, migrants and ethnic minorities, older people, children and lone parents. Incomes of poor people have been squeezed from many directions, including reductions in employment incomes and income maintenance payments, tax increases, and retirement pension changes. Furthermore, the erosion of purchasing power as a result of increases in the price of basic commodities is increasingly seen as a major threat. In many countries, gas, electricity and water charges, as well as bank charges and the cost of food and rents, are rising. †¢ Inequality – The Gap Widens It might have been expected that the gap in income between richest and poorest would narrow during a recession, as the very wealthy lost out. It might also have been expected that ‘relative poverty’ might fall because of the lowering of overall income. In fact, however, there is increasing evidence of a widening gap between rich and poor, as the top 10 per cent emerge as clear winners. †¢ Accommodation and Homelessness The downward pressures on rents in the recession should have provided some relief to people on low incomes. In fact, evidence from EAPN members suggests that any rent decreases have been more than offset by higher utility and food bills, and so housing may be still unaffordable for many on low incomes. In many countries, people’s ability to access decent, affordable housing has lessened as statutory authorities have withdrawn from housing provision – a process which started long before the recession, but whose impact is made worse in the context of increased long-term unemployment. †¢ Cuts in Services Waiting lists in the health services for treatments and operations have increased, for example in Ireland and the UK. In Central and Eastern European countries, health care co-payments are becoming more widespread – accelerating a process which had begun following the ‘transition’ of these countries to a market economy. In some Western European countries also, users are now expected to pay a bigger proportion of the cost of treatment. These types of cost containment measures inevitably hit hardest those on low or modest incomes. In some countries subsidised access to services is being reviewed or has already been reduced or removed. Outlook Of Economists About The Crisis: Economists said those Greeks with the skills will flea the country in search of better prospects – leaving behind them the low-skilled and damaging competitiveness further. Alan Clarke, an economist at Scotia Capital, said: Countries like Germany are booming and theyve got skills shortages. Labour mobility to Germany would redress the balance. To some extent, an exodus of skilled workers could be the legacy of youth unemployment in Greece. The net effect, according to Jonathan Portes, director of the National Institute of Economic and Social Research, is that Greece faces a hollowing out of the labour market. The higher skilled will go somewhere else, like London, he said. But the long-term economic danger here is that the lower-skilled young people become semi to permanently excluded from the labour market. Katerina Rudiger, skills adviser at the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, said the longer a young person is out of work the greater the scarring effect on adult life. If people dont get access to the labour market its a huge knock to their confidence and has a huge pschycological impact that can effect health and mental wellbeing. Countries like Germany and Austria were historically good at helping young people bridge the gap between education and work, which is often why their youth unemployment rates are relatively low, she said. Greece, however, already has a notoriously inflexible labour market, with older workers tending to stay in jobs for longer and making it harder for young people to get a foot in the door. According to Portes, Greece, somehow, has to give it s young people hope that it is worth staying in the country, and that jobs will return to the labour market. The only way it can, he believes, is for the European Union to inject more money into it to kick-start job creation and invest in education and training. Persson said Greece should be allowed a proper write-down of its debt to give it some breathing space to sort out its problems. Pushing through drastic cuts forces the country to ignore its youth unemployment problems, he said. Pro-growth measures in the system allows businesses to invest. The current package [to rescue Greece] has far too much austerity, he warned. Remedial Steps To Be Taken: Exiting Eurozone Traditionally, countries would devalue their currency to make themselves more competitive. In the case of Greece, that would mean exiting the Euro. No one has done that before and there arent really any mechanisms that would allow the Greek government to convert all of the existing Greek Euros into Drachmas. As it is, Greece is no in a downward spiral of austerity which causes continual drops in tax revenue and creates more in stability. Long term, Greece needs to restructure its economy to be more efficient, but short term it needs capital. Its best solution is unpalatable to the Germans That would be the socialization of Greek debts by selling Euro bonds to cover its shortfalls. In the end, the solution will have to be dramatic i. e. leave the Euro or socialize its debt. The middle ground of compromise is sure to be unsuccessful. †¢ Reducing the size of government and public sector The other way to overcome its economic crisis is for Greece to reduce the size of its government and public sector, reduce taxes and regulation and allow a free market. Based upon past historical experience in other nations (Chile, Estonia, the former Soviet Union, etc. ) only a free market can solve problems such as those Greece is experiencing. †¢ Introducing six-day working week Greeces eurozone creditors are demanding that the government in Athens introduce a six-day working week as part of the stiff terms for the countrys second bailout, which included: †¢ Increasing flexibility of work schedules †¢ Setting the minimum daily rest to 11 hours Delinking the working hours of employees from the opening hours of the establishment †¢ Eliminating restrictions on minimum/maximum time between morning and afternoon shifts †¢ Allowing the consecutive two-week leave to be taken anytime during the year in seasonal sectors. †¢ There should be a permanent single-rate statutory minimum wage, seen as an incentive for getting people back to work in a country where unemployment has soared to over 24%. The Greek government is struggli ng to come up with persuasive policies to enact spending cuts of a further â‚ ¬11. 6 billion, which ere to have been implemented in June, to secure the next bailout tranche of more than â‚ ¬30bn due next month. Extending the deadlines would effectively require more eurozone help and a third bailout. There is little appetite for more rescue funds across the eurozone, meaning that Greece may ultimately be sacrificed. †¢ Employment has taken a heavy blow in the face of downwardly rigid wages Total employment declined by over 6 percent in 2011 and an additional fall of 5 percent is forecast in 2012, with the unemployment rate projected to average 18 per cent in 2012 and to reach above 20 percent in some quarters. The labour market reforms are expected to provide a significant contribution towards both saving, and creating new, jobs. Nevertheless, employment is not expected to stabilise before 2013, and the subsequent recovery in the number of jobs will be progressive. †¢ The closure of the competitiveness gap is expected to accelerate Following years of continued growth, well in excess of its main trading partners, unit labour costs are clearly declining. After the inertia observed in 2010, wages in the business sector fell by around 5 per cent in the year leading up to the third quarter of 2011. This was insufficient to help recover competitiveness, also due to continued cost reductions by Greece’s main trading partners. However, the latest labour market measures (see below), together with those legislated in 2011 are expected to contribute to reduce labour costs by at least 15 percent over the next three years. However, the product and service market reform have also a crucial role to play to increase internal competition and improve external competitiveness. The expectation of the debt exchange has weighed on financial market developments Since the European Council decisions on 21 July and 26/27 October 2011, financial sector developments were influenced by the expectation of the debt exchange. Yield and CDS spreads on Greek sovereign debt have skyrocketed and the Athens stock exchange index fell. Once the debt exchange is executed, there is an expectation of a progressive improvement in these indicators. Following the announcement of the debt exchange offer, rating agencies have further downgraded Greece. Conclusion: Greeces youth unemployment rate, on the other hand, has doubled in just three years. The countrys youth unemployment rate, at 51. 1pc, is now the worst in the eurozone. Such a high number of under-25s without jobs in Greece does not bode well for the countrys future and will have far-reaching consequences. So the Government have to take up proper initiatives to overcome such crisis as soon as possible.

Media Stereotypes essays

Media Stereotypes essays Today, every one of us is spending more of his leisure time watching TV. The shows on the TV influence our decision process According to the established sense in the society, femininity and masculinity are tightly bound to gender. Men are supposed to be masculine. They are expected to be strong, rough, to have high stamina. They are not supposed to wear skirts (the Scots are an exception) but trousers, and should avoid colors like pink and violet. These are "feminine" colors. The man in the family is usually the person who should provide money and build a career. On the other hand, women are supposed to be tender and loving mothers and wives, to wear skirts and to walk on high eels. They are should not have a career, but should take care of the kids and the house. It seems that these perceptions have been existing forever. That is because from early childhood, we are thought by our parents that pink is for girls, and blue is for boys. The trucks and weaponry toys are for boys and the dolls are for girls. Than, it is not surprising that we accept gender stereotyping and try to fit in the rigid models of feminine and masculine. For example, women athletes and especially tennis players and basketball players are afraid of losing their femininity. These sports are famous for the large number of gay players that are involved. Because of that, the hetero athletes are a subject of suspicion of being gays. To avoid this they are trying to look more feminine. A basketball coach even had developed a term for this phenomenon"hetero-sexy." America has determined that there are just two kinds of people; men and women.Our society has decided that all people fit into these two groups, and has set forth rules that members of each group must follow. It has been dictated that all women are soft, caring, weak, and sensitive. They must care about others, be open and communicative, be emotional, and submit to men. However, what our society has...

What is Plotâ€Definition, Examples, and Expert Tips from Editors

What is Plots, and Expert Tips from Editors What is Plot? An Author's Guide to Storytelling So, what is a plot in fiction? Let's check your understanding with a pop quiz: which of the following is the best example of a plot?a. A boy finds a new family in a traveling circus run by orphans. b. An immigrant comes to the United States to start a new life. c. A king dies and then the queen dies out of grief. d. A high school girl discovers love from an unexpected source: a centuries-old vampire.If you picked c, you’re right.But what about a, b, and d? Well, strictly speaking, those are a mix of themes and premises, but the confusion is entirely understandable. Storytelling theory is packed with confusingly similar terms - and as you get further into the nuts and bolts of writing narrative, it helps to know the difference.This post is here to help make sure that you don’t lose the plot when you’re writing your own story. But before we get that far, let’s first define plot.What is plot?Plot is the chain of connected events that make up a narrative. It refers to what actually occurs in a story and is one of storytelling’s major pillars. Some will say that if characters are the who and theme is the why, then the plot is the what of the story. Remember that Goal + Flaw + Stakes = Compelling Narrative.Don’t forget about your character’s flaw, says editor Katie McCoach. â€Å"The flaw of a character must be the thing about them that needs to change in order to reach their goal at the end of the book, or another way of viewing it is to ask: what is their fear that keeps them from reaching their goals?† This should feed into the conflict of the story, which will be instrumental in guiding the structure.Don’t†¦Plot in a vacuum.Ever watch a movie or read a book where you shook your head because the characters were acting â€Å"out-of-character†? That author probably fell into one of the biggest temptations of plotting: letting the plot drive the characters. Avoid that, warns Aja Pollock, a former editor at Simon Schuster:â€Å"A lot of authors get the outline in their minds, but when the desires of their characters don't align with where the plot is going, rather than adjusting the plot or rethinking the characters, they shoehorn their characters into situations that don't make sense.†In other words, even plot twists  need to make sense first and foremost. Forcing the plot along will result in characters who behave falsely in readers' eyes - which will make the whole story seem hollow.What's your experience with plotting a book? Have any questions about anything related to plot? Leave us your thoughts in the comments below!

Obesity Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 2

Obesity - Essay Example Among Latinos, there was an increase from 12% to 24% in the same period (NHCSL 2010, p.11). This clearly shows that obesity is more prevalent in the minority Latinos as compared to the general American population. In socioeconomically challenged communities living in the United States, public health practitioners have observed an increase in frequency of obesity in latest years unlike in the past. Discussion For an individual to be obese, he or she has to accumulate a lot of fats in his or her body that are not needed hence causing a health problem in his or her life. Obesity can be detected in the early life of a child or an adult because of poor dietary habits. Hence, poor eating habits cause more obesity among children and adults than either genetic factors or physical activity. In the modern era, there is large numbers of people with obesity and even overweight, whereby, people’s eating habits have greatly changed leading to this health problem all over the world. Unlike i n the past where people used to cook at home, nowadays more people are turning to processed foods that they get from restaurants and other eateries. This has mainly been because of changes in lifestyles where parents have become busier with their jobs that they do not find time to cook or prepare meals at home. These processed foods contain more fats and calories than homemade foods thus increase the risk of obesity among children and even the adults who consume it. The eating habits of many children are uncontrolled since their parents are not with them when they are eating. On the other hand, parents are not teaching their children on healthy eating and thus children eat a lot of junk foods that tend to be sweeter or tastier, this also increases the risk of obesity. Obesity in childhood has been a major concern in most developed economies such the US. Despite the fact that children are less at risk of weight-related health problems than adults are, obese children are more likely t o suffer from chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart problems in their adulthood. Causes of Obesity Too much calorie intake; with the changing dietary habits, many families have abandoned healthy eating and foods such as fruits and vegetables and instead have turned to unhealthy foods such as red meat and other high calorie foods. Children are also eating uncontrollably, therefore, they end up eating more frequently and more food than the necessary one required by the body to function normally. Moreover, children are not trained on healthy eating habits; hence, they continue to eat indiscriminately, opting for foods that are either sweeter or tastier that also increase the risk of childhood obesity. Lack of physical activity; this has also greatly contributed to obesity among most children and even adults. Today, many children and adults are not doing exercises that burn excess calories in their bodies. Lack of physical activity is related to poor dietary habits since after t aking too much calories, individuals do not burn the excess calories through taking part in physical activity, and instead, they spend more time in doing less strenuous activities. Additionally, most children use cars to move from one place to another, even for short distances, instead of walking which would

Reading analysis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Reading analysis - Essay Example Born in 1855, she would become one of the influential artists in the in the 20th century and the end of the 19th century (Stephen, Mcnamara, & Goad, 2006:66). In the beginning of the 20th century she moved to London. In the years that followed she visited France, Germany and Spain. At the age of forty eight she began writing anecdotes concerning modern art. In one of these anecdotes, she described how her mother discovered her talent at the age of twelve. At such a tender age, she exhibited her ability to depict objects in a way that resembles the actual object. This depicted her interest in surrealism, an attitude that she nurtured for the first after discovering her talent (Dixon, & Kelly, 2008:56). In a bid to nurture the young girl’s talent, the mother opted to enroll her in the traditional art school that offered her with training on how to use different art elements in promoting different artistic principles (Stephen, Mcnamara, & Goad, 2006:67). All through this period, it became evident that she depicted different objects in the indigenous nature, while making her a realist. She settled for Munich, but met the disappointment after encountering realists who had stopped active depiction of the realism ideals alongside ardent modernists. At this point of her career life, she valued realism and disregarded modernism. Although she refuted most of the modernist ideals of the time at first, the first six months were enough for her to identify aspects that she found compelling in German art (Dixon, & Kelly, 2008:56). The numerous art exhibitions organized in Germany served as the most critical motivation for her to begin to appreciate the artistic ideals of the modernists. After relocating to Paris later, she encountered the triumphant nature of realism. Apparently, there were many realists in Paris, who had not abandoned their ideals to form part of the modernists (Stephen, Mcnamara, & Goad, 2006:68). Summary of ‘Preston at Home’ Modernism a nd Neo-colonial Periphery Margaret Preston implemented precise artistic approaches to establish the importance of different characters in the society. During that time, Emily Carr and Irma Stern followed suit in providing artistic representations to emphasize on the theories of nature before and after the colonial period, and the events emanating from such transitions (Butler, 2005:201). Arguably, the three female artists established on the event of maturation to civilization in their specific societal settings. They successfully criticized the processes of colonization in relation to modernity and decried on the social inequities in their societies. Further, the artists observed freedom and equality as essential and emphasized on the ideology of emancipation from the antisocial practices of modernity through their artistic presentations. Their pictures reflected on the application of modern primitivitism through the reflection of past artistic practices, the foregoing cultural beli efs and norms. The practices affected the society as the artist reflected on the past colonial practices, but established little reflection of the diverse cultural practices in the human societies despite the fact that their representations established cross-border practices (Butler, 2005:202). Seemingly, the artists did not establish any adventurous outcomes

Beowulf by Seamus Heaney and the Anglo-Saxon poem Dream of the Rood Essay Example for Free

Beowulf by Seamus Heaney and the Anglo-Saxon poem Dream of the Rood Essay Fealty is one of the greatly-recognized values of the Anglo-Saxon world. Often defined as a type of loyalty or allegiance, fealty plays a more engaging and active role in Seamus Heaneys Beowulf than in the Anglo-Saxon poem The Dream of the Rood because of the way it causes action to be taken. Understanding the use of this Anglo-Saxon value can reveal its importance in Anglo-Saxon life and literature. In Beowulf, the main character Beowulf uses fealty to empower him to perform heroic deeds. This is shown through the actions that he makes: upon hearing of the attacks by Grendel, Beowulf rushes to the aid of Hrothgar, a friend of his fathers. Beowulfs father, Ecgtheow, previously killed Heatholaf, a member of the Wulfing tribe. According to Anglo-Saxon terminology and law, a debt or wergild must be paid to the relatives of the victim. Unable to pay this manprice (StudyGuide.org), Ecgtheow fled to avoid war. Hrothgar healed the feud by paying (Line 470) this debt which caused Beowulfs father to swear fealty to Hrothgar. It is this fealty that his father made that encourages Beowulf to follow up on an old friendship (Line 376) and assist Hrothgar by defeating Grendel. Another example where Beowulf uses fealty to act heroic is the decision to fight the dragon. Although this occurs in the older phase of Beowulfs life, his loyalty or fealty to the Geats as king of the people (Line 2513) obliges him to defend them, believing that its his duty. Conclusively, the utilization of fealty by Beowulf results in actions being carried out. The Anglo-Saxon value of fealty is also used by other characters in Beowulf to execute intrepid actions. The greatest example of this is the aid shown to Beowulf by Wiglaf during the battle against the dragon. During this battle, Beowulfs sword fails him and hes in need of assistance from the eleven comrades personally chosen for the encounter. However, excluding Wiglaf, that hand-picked troop broke ranks and ran for their lives (Lines 2597-2598). Wiglaf was the only warrior of the band who stood by his lord. In a sign of respect toward the heroic ideal of the Anglo-Saxon world that states that he is obligated to fight for their lord to the death (StudyGuide.org), Wiglaf interferes in the fight and they eventually defeat the dragon. This principle demonstrates how fealty is significant to  Anglo-Saxon life in the way it inspired Wiglaf to aid Beowulf. All in all, fealty is acutely used in Beowulf as a basis to which one could complete actions. In Dream of the Rood, fealty is shown by the cross to Christ but it doesnt play an actual role in the poem because the cross is an inanimate object and cannot use his fealty to protect his lord. In a sense, the fealty in this poem is more idealistic than in Beowulf since the cross has the determination and the eagerness to aid Christ during the crucifixion but he cannot interfere. This willpower is illustrated when Christ was placed on the Cross in preparation for the crucifixion. The cross states that although the ground shakes, it darednot against the Lords word/ bend or break (Lines 35-36). That provides the notion that the cross has the intention to help Christ because it bending or breaking would hinder Christ; the cross, by announcing that it wouldnt do such a thing verifies its fealty. Therefore, fealty is used in the poem as a concept, not as a reason for action. In conclusion, the application of fealty to the two Anglo-Saxon texts is evident but more significant in one then the other. Still, fealty contributes to both pieces of literature and its complex use exposes why it is so vital to Anglo-Saxon society. Works Cited Glenn, Jonathan A. The Dream of the Rood. University of Central Arkansas. May 2009 . Heaney, Seamus. Beowulf A New Verse Translation (Bilingual Edition). Boston: W. W. Norton Company, 2001. Beowulf StudyGuide.org. StudyGuide.org. May 2009 . Works ConsultedDictionary.com. May 2009 .

A Refining of Magnet Schools: The Segregated System :: Research Papers

A Refining of Magnet Schools: The Segregated System Magnet schools are designed to promote voluntary school desegregation and to enhance educational quality through thematic teaching of uniform curriculum (www.magnet.edu). Partially funded by the federal government through grants and assistance programs, magnet schools essentially provide choice to parents and students across America to gain a more specialized education. Intrinsically, magnet schools allow students from many different districts to unite in one school in hopes of creating a racially diverse learning environment. Despite the attempt made by the federal government to desegregate schools, Jonathon Kozol points out that, in fact, the magnet schools have even further isolated the poor urban student and that magnet schools have indeed failed to meet initial expectations as a desegregated environment. Yet desegregation is apparent in the areas of philosophy and purpose, admission and entrance to the schools, and curriculum. The initial proposal of the magnet school as a means to create racial equity among schools has been unsuccessful despite its statement of philosophy and purpose. â€Å"By shifting focus toward academic interests†¦magnet schools are attempting to bring together students who have common interests regardless of race† (www.liberalparty.com). However, despite its attempts, the system of magnet schools has failed to overcome racial segregation. Kozol notes that â€Å"very poor children, excluded from this [magnet] system, says the Chicago Tribune, are ‘even more isolated’ as a consequence of the removal of the more successful students from their midst† (Kozol 59). According to Kozol and the Tribune, the magnet system is further segregating the school systems by worsening the regular public schools in neighboring areas. What must not be forgotten are the existing schools that the less successful and less motivated students are left to attend, and the damaging effects that they face as a result of the magnet school system. In addition, in an evaluation of the Magnet Schools Assistance Program between 1989 and 1991, researchers â€Å"Steel and Eaton discovered that only half the schools met their desegregation objectives† (www.eric.uoregon.edu). Another study providing evidence that racial equity has failed to be realized through the use of magnet schools is in a recent statecommissioned evaluation of New York State’s magnet school program for 1993-94. The study â€Å"found that schools did not completely achieve their academic or desegregation goals† (New York State 1994- www.eric.urogen.edu). Legal critic Kimberly West has also concluded that â€Å"magnet schools are a ‘desegregation tool that backfired, are rife with racially segregated classes,’ and minority students are too often ‘treated as inferior by the very system that was designed to help them’† (www.

Report on Consumer Behavior of Soft Drinks Essay

INTRODUCTION Need for the study With the economic liberalization in India a number of global companies have been coming forward to invest in India and tapping perhaps and world’s biggest growing market. As the floodgates have been opened up for Multinational Companies, the global giant Coca-cola also decided to make an entry into the Indian market. In India, the per capita consumption of soft drinks is at rock bottom level even less than our neighboring countries Pakistan and Bangladesh, where it is four times as much. The last summer was particularly sweltering one, with temperatures hitting the high 40’s in some places yet; bottles were disappearing from shelves faster than they could be replaced. In the peak season, they found themselves short of capacity and having to turn around their trucks faster and faster to slake the greater Indian thirst. With growth rates zooming into the double digits, bottlers have been propelled into expanding capacities. With their big-time plans, the multinationals have changed the face of this business, long dominated by small-time businessmen. If demand continues to increase annually at an average of 20 percent, then volumes could reach one billion cases within ten years. 4 These arc ambitious targets and to reach them the cola makers will have to build capacity, infrastructure, make their bottlers more available and more affordable. There are 5. 00,000 retailers stocking soft drinks in India. Also, soft drinks which retail at any where between Rs. 9. 00 and Rs. 12. 00 are expensive when measured against purchasing power. As they concoct their strategies, keeping an eye on each other all the time, ultimately there’s only one guy they have to watch out for, who will determine their fortunes: the consumer. The real race to quench his thirst has just begun 5 Objectives of the study †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ To study about the consumer preference with regard to soft drink To study about the consumer perception with regard Coca — Cola To understand the Promotional Strategies To find out the medium which is most effective in reaching the consumers? 6 Research methodology. Data will be collected from a sample size 1000 and distributed over different areas by using simple Random Sampling. Random Sampling consists of 1. Demographic Segmentation 2. Sociocultural Segmentation 3. Use-Related Segmentation 4. Use-Situation Segmentation Analysis 1. Data Analysis is done both qualitatively and quantitatively. 2. The analysis is presented pictographically using bar graphs PERIOD OF THE STUDY: The period of the study is past one year 7 Scope of the study The new economic policies of the Govt. of India adopted in the mid eighties were given further impetus by the early nineties. The Indian market has undergone considerable changed as a direct consequence of many of these policies and soft drink industry is no exception to this. Keeping the above – mentioned perspective in the background, the researcher has selected soft drink market, since the marketing task his became more challenging and intensive competition has opened up new vistas. Companies are evolving marketing strategies by studying the demands of the market place increasingly penetrating into appropriate market segments introducing differentiated products to improve their market share. The soft drink market has achieved an accelerated growth in the past decade. Soft drinks include ail types of non – alcohol carbonated flavored or otherwise sweetened beverages. The entry of Pepsi and the reentry of Coca – Cola in the India market arc inevitably facing stiff competition but the ultimate winner is customer/consumer. This has led the researcher to study me perception of consumers towards different brands of soft drinks and to gauge out the 8 promotional strategic being adopted by the marketers to lure promiscuous buyers and win a larger share in the markets. The cola wars are intensifying and bringing manifold changes in the soft drink industry. The researcher has conducted a detailed survey, interpreting the responses to study the perception of the consumers. Now the people with changing life styles and increase in income levels have made the soft drink a common man drink. Liven through the existing system of marketing of soft drink has not tapped such a big market in the interiors of the country specially the rural areas, as marketing in the suburban and rural areas is developing slowly. Despite the soft drink industry is growing at a very healthy pace and stands at 18% per annum. The market for cool drinks comprises of adults in the 35 years age group who are largest consumers of the soft drink in the country followed by young adults in the age group of 15-25 years and children in the age group of 614 years hence, companies must develop their product and marketing slraleiues to suit their needs. Limitations of the study 1. The study is conducted with in the confines of the twin cities 2. The study made use of both the primary and secondary sources of information. The accuracy and authenticity of statistics depends of the accuracy of the second 9 source itself. Therefore, the limitation of the secondary source is also bound to be present in the analysis too. 3. In spite of all the care taken to translate the feelings and opinions of the respondents, the errors might creep into the study, may be because of the reason that consumers may fail to articulate their feelings properly. 4. Due to lack of time and finances, the sample size is confined to hundred only. The method adopted for sampling is convenient. Therefore, size and method implications are bound to be present in the findings. Hence, the findings cannot be taken for granted for generalization for the whole population. Study is confined to consumers belonging to age group between 20 — 25 years 10 CHAPTER-II COMPANY PROFILE 11 COMPANY PROFILE 2. 1 INDUSTRY PROFILE Soft drinks are typical and necessary consumer products, which are generally consumed by the individuals to quench the thirst and for a good flavour, and it is considered to be the symbol of social status. The two main reasons, which classify the soft drinks under consumer products, are their easy availability and their reasonable high degree standardization. Among the listed consumer goods (i. e. , perishable items) soft drinks is considered nonessential and as a luxury item. Soft drinks can be classified into two broad categories- carbonated drinks and noncarbonated drinks. Both have enormous market. In case of carbonated beverages the effectiveness of carbon-dioxide is the main factor in determining the quality. Cola, leman and orange are carbonated drinks while mango drinks come under non-carbonated category. A prolonged visible and sparking effervescence is sought after to produce soda taste in such drinks. The basic constituents of soft drinks are water, sweeteners, acidulates, flavorings, colorings, foaming agents and preservatives. The soft drink market is dominated by a few brands. Coca Cola and Pepsi products for example. 12 Soft drink industry in India has witnessed phenomenal growth in the recent past, particularly after the exit of Coca-Cola. The exit of Coca-Cola from India during the late seventies gave a bolter scope to several Indian soft drink companies to grow. These were a rapid growth in this industry but each one aggressively competed with one another to capture a major share in the market. The competition was very high even in terms of advertising. The perishable items like soft drinks need a lot of advertisement, as they are not necessary for the consumer. Most of the consumer consume just for fun & refreshment purpose and not and for nay other special reason. For that reason the soft drink marketers concentrate more on the advertisement part and they keep on designing new advertisements, which conquer the heart of the consumer. They take special care in casting the popular figures. These soft drink markets also include some offers like tours to someplace and so on. These soft drink companies will sponsor for many of the sport events in order to have good edge over the competitor as per as the publicity is considered. SOFT DRINK 1NDUSTR Y IN INDIA The entry of carbonated soil drink into the Indian soil is relatively new. The credit for introducing branded soil drink goes to pure drinks private Ltd, Delhi. Later this company became the franchised bottler of Coca – Cola export corporation. Accordingly, in 1950, Coca – Cola made its first debut in the Indian market. This 13 is the story about the origin of soft drinks in India. After Coca — Cola, Pepsi entered into the market. The exit of Pepsi made coke the undisputed leader in the soft drinks market. This company too was forced to leave India due to its non compliance with the rules and regulations of the Government in 1977. The exit of coke becomes a boom to national manufactures and all the players started increasing their business. Among the many national players like pure drinks Me Dowels, Modem foods, Spencer’s and parley, Parle emerged as the leader in the Indian soft drink market. It is believed that by the end of 1989. Parle captured more than 75% of the national soft drink market. In 1990. Pepsi rccntcrcd India and started making more noise in the market. All the same, it grabbed considerable market share from parley. Besides this. Coke also reentered India after 16 years of exile, fearing that, it cannot cling to its market leadership. Parle sold itself to Coca 1993. By buying over local competition the two American Cola giant share cleared up the arena and are packing all their power behind building the Indian franchise of their global girdling brands. If Pepsi invests Rs. 300 core, Coke will be investing more than that and vice versa. The total investment is of a size and scale that the Rs. 3048 cork soft drink businesses have never seen before. Both players see enormous potential in this country. Where swigging a carbonated beverage is still considered a treat virtually a luxury. Consequently by world standards India’s per capita consumption of three servings is rock bottom less even 14 Cola for $40 Million November, than over neighbors Pakistan and Bangladesh. Where is four times as much so, the cola giants feel that per caps can only go up and up. As incomes improve so do life styles a pattern they have seen in many of the 195 countries they sell their universal products. HISTORY OF COCA – COLA ATLANTA BEGINNINGS (1868 – 1892): It was 1886 in NEW YORK harbor, workers are constructing the statue of the liberty. 800 miles away another great symbol was about to be unveiled. Like many people who change the history, JOHAN PEMBHRTON, a civil war veteran & Atlanta pharmacist, was inspired by simple curiosity. He loved tinkering with medicinal formulas, and one afternoon, searching for a quick cure for head aches, his stipend up a fragrant Carmel colored liquid in a three legged pot. When it was done, he carried it a few doors down to Jacob’s pharmacy. I Icrc. the mixture was combined with carbonated water and sampled by customers who all agreed this new drink was something special. So Jacob’s pharmacy put it on sale for five cents a glass. PEMBERTON’S book keeper FRANK ROBINSON named the mixture COCA – COLA and wrote it out in his distinct script. To this day, COCA – COLA is written in the, same way. In this first year the company sold about 9 glasses of coca cola a day. A century later the coca-cola company has produced over ten billion gallons of syrup. Unfortunately for Pemberton, he was more of an inventor than a businessman and had no idea that the had invented one of the greatest products of the world. Over 15 the course of 3 years 1881 – 1891. Pemberton sold the company to Atlanta businessman Asa Griggs Candlcr for the total of about $ 2300. Candlcr would become the company’s first president and the first to bring real vision to the business and the brand. BEYOND A TLANTA (1893 – 1904) : As a Candler, a natural born salesman transformed Coca Cola from invention to a business. Lie knew there were thirsty people out there and Candler found brilliant and innovative ways to introduce them to this exciting new refreshment. He gave away coupons for complimentary first tastes of Coca — Cola brand. People saw (‘oca – Cola every where and the aggressive promotion worked. By 1895, Candler had built syrup plants in Chicago, Dallas and Los Angeles. Inevitably, the soda’s popularity led to a demand for it to be enjoyed in new ways. In 1894. a Mississippi businessman named Joseph Bernhard became the first to put the drink in bottles. He sent of them to Candler, who responded without enthusiasm. Despite being a brilliant and innovative businessman, he didn’t realize then that the heart of Coca- Cola would be with portable, bottled beverage customers could take anywhere. He still didn’t realize it five years later when in 1899, two Chattanooga lawyers, Benjamin. Thomas and Joseph b. Whitehead secured exclusive rights from him to bottle and sell the beverage lor the sum of one dollar. SAFEGAURD1NG THEBKANOfl905-1918) : 16 Imitation may be the sincerest of flattery, but the Coca – Cola Company was none too pleased about the proliferation of copycat beverages taking the advantage of its success. This was great brand. Both needed to be protected. Advertising focused on the authenticity of Coca – Cola, urging can summers to â€Å"demand the genuine† and â€Å"accept no substitute†. The company also created a distinct bottle shape to assure people they were actually getting a real Coca -Cola. In 1916, the Root glass company of Treat, Indiana began manufacturing the famous contour bottle. The counter bottle for its attractive appearance, original design and the fact that, even in the drink, you could identify the genuine article. As the country roared into the new century, the Coca Cola Company grew rapidly moving into Cuba. Puerto Rico, France and other countries. In 1900 there were two bottles of Coca Cola, by 1920, there would be about 1000. THE WOODRUFF LEGACY: Perhaps no person has more impact on the Coca – Cola company the Robert Woodruff In 1923, five years after his father Ernest purchased the company from Asa Candler, Woodruff become the company president. While Candler had introduced the U. S. Coca – Cola, he would nearly spend 60 years as company leader introducing the beverage to the world beyond. Woodruff was marketing genius who saw opportunities for expansion every where the captivated foreign markets with his innovative campaigns. Coca Cola traveled with the U. S. team to the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics to the logo was emblazed on racing dog sleds in Canada & the walls of bull fighting arenas in Spain. He pushed 17 development & distribution of the six-pack, the open top cooler and all innovations that made it easier for people to drink Coca Cola. When it became clear to the company that housewives would be more inclined top buy six-packs they could open easily at home, women were sent door to door, installing branded Coca Cola openers, this is exactly the kind of â€Å"out side the box'† thinking that Cola not just a huge thrived under Woodruffs leadership and it made Coca success, but a big party of people’s lives. THE WAR & ITS LEGACY: In 1941 America entered into World War II thousands of men & women were sent overseas. The country & Coca – Cola rallied behind them. Woodruff ordered that every man in uniform gets a bottle of Coca – Cola for 5 cents, wherever he is, whatever it cost the company 1943, General Dwight D. Eisenhower sent urgent cablegram to Coca – Cola requesting shipment of materials for 10 bottling plant. During the war many Europeans enjoyed their first taste of beverage and when peace finally came, Coca – Cola be placed within †arm’s reach desire'†, was coming true from the rnidf-40’s until 1960, the number of countries with bottling operations nearly doubled. Post war America alive with optimism & prosperity. Coca – Cola was a part of fun, carefree America lifestyle & the imagery of its advantage happy couples at the drive in, carefree moms driving are yellow convertibles reflection of the spirit of the limes. A WORLD Or CUSTOMERS (1960- 1981): 18 is a wonderful After 75 years of amazing success with brand Coca – Cola, the company decided to expand with new flavors sprite in 1961, TAB in 1963 and Fresco in 1966. The company’s presence worldwide was growing rapidly year after year, Coca Cola found a home in more & more places. Cambodia, Montserrat, Puce, Turkey &. more advertising for Coca – Cola always an important & exciting part of its business really came into its own in the 70’s and reflects a brand totally in tune with fun, playfulness and freedom. The international appeal of Coca- Cola was embodied buy 1971 commercial, where a group of young people from all over the world gathered on a hill top in Italy to sing â€Å"I’d like to buy the world a coke†. In 1978, the (‘oca Cola Company was selected as the only company allowed selling packaged cold drinks in the peoples Republic of China. DIETCOKESA NEWCOKE (1982 – 1989): The 80’s the era of legwarmers, head bands and the fitness craze and a time of much change and innovation at the Coca – Cola Company. In 1981. Roberto C. Goizucta became chairman of the board of directors & CEO of the Coca- Cola Company. He who fled Castro’s Cuba in 1961. completely overhauled the company with a strategy he called â€Å"intelligent risk taking† among his bold moves was organizing the numerous U. S. bottling operations into a new public company, Coca Cola enterprises, Inc.he also released diet coke, the very first extension of Cola trade mark within two years, it had become top low calorie drink Cola. One of Goi/ueta’s other the Coca in the world, second in success only to Coca 19 incentives in 1985, was the release of new taste for Coca Cola, the first change in formulation in 99 years. In taste people loved the new formula. In the real world they had a deep emotional attachment to the original and they had a deep emotional attachment to the original and they bagged and pleaded to get it back. Critics called it the biggest marketing blunder ever. But Goizueta, as Warren Buffet once said, had a knack for turning † lemins into lemonade†. The original formula was return to the market as Coca increase its lead over the competition Cola classic, the product began to a lead that continues to this day. COCA – COLA NOW (1990 – NOW) : In 1886. Coca – Cola brought thrilling refreshment to patrons of a small Atlanta pharmacy. Now well at 2nt century, the company’s goal is to provide that magic every time, in 200 countries, with each of it’s 230+ and ever growing brands. Coca – Cola has customers from Boston to Bahrain, drinking brands like Ambassa, Veitabela and freseolita. In the remotest corners of the globe, you can still find Coca Cola. In February 2000, Doug Daft was named company chairman. Coca – Cola a huge international company, but Draft’s vision is to have the company operate as a collection of smaller, locally run business. â€Å"No one†, Daft points out, â€Å"decides to enjoy one of our products globally†. T hat’s why Coca– Cola committed to local markets, to paying attention to what people from different cultures and backgrounds like to drink and where and how they want to drink, livery ten seconds. 1. 26,00 people choose to reach for one of the Coca. 20 Cola company brands & it is the company’s mission to make the choice exiling & satisfying every single time. COCA – COLA IN INDIA MARKET: Coca – Cola has started its operation in Indian market in October 1993. This has been its reentry in the India market after withdrawal of its operation in 1970s. The Indian market offers a strong consumer potential as majority of the population is in middle class category which is a strong consumer base for any FMCG company like Coca – Cola to float its range of products. Coca– Cola has acquired the soft drink brands like Thumps Up, Gold spot, l.imea. Maa/a, Bisleri soda etc which were floated by parle as these products have achieved a strong consumer base and formed a brand image in Indian market during the reentry of Coca range of products of Coca Cola in 1993. Thus these products became a part of Cola. MISSION Or COCA – COLA : Provide â€Å"clients† with appropriate â€Å"systems solutions† for â€Å"effective & profitable† business use adopting a † quality management approach† maintains a †competitive edge† with the help of latest and user friendly information technology. VISION OF COCA – COLA : To be a proactive & service oriented business partner for influencing change & contributing to increase share owner value through a dedicated & creative team. 21 OBJECTIVE OF COCA ~ COLA : To develop a business strategy for systems implementation which is â€Å"simple, effective & practiced'† to execute in a timely manner for bottling system. CHAPTER-III THEORETICAL BACKGROUND ABOUT THE TOPIC 22 THEORETICAL BACKGROUND ABOUT THE TOPIC Consume r Behaviour, The Marketing Process and Models of Consumer Decision-making Psychological influences: the consumer as an individual Perception, motivation, learning, attitudes, attitude change and persuasive communications Social and cultural influences: the consumer as a group member. Group influence and opinion leadership; reference group influence; social class and economic influences, lifestyles, ethnic, religious, age and regional groups The consumer as a decision maker Individual decision-makin g, demographics and household decision making; personality, self-concept and sex roles, purchase and post-purchase â€Å"Some issues that arise during stages in the consumption process† Consumer’s perspective 23 CONSUM BEHAVIO ER UR â€Å"A model in this context is a representation of Consumer Behaviour. The aim is to provide a simplified portrayal of consumer processes to aid our description, explanation and control of buying behaviour†. Types of consumer behaviour models: †¢ Black Box models †¢ Personal variable models †¢ Personal †¢ Engel, Blackwell and Minored †¢ Howard-Sheath †¢ Nicosia Perhaps the most useful set of categories is that of low, medium or high level models. In this case the level refers to the level of complexity – so a low level model would be a relatively simple representation of the phenomenon while a Simple models 24 high level model of the same event would be much more complex and detailed and include more variables. In the marketing context the modeling approach has two key objectives: 1. description, explanation, prediction (and ultimately control of consume behaviors) and/or 2. Aiding researchers in their task of developing ‘better’ hypotheses and theories about the relationships and processes involved in consumer behaviour Models can be evaluated against their ability to satisfy either or both of these objectives. Study on Consumer Behaviour 25 SIM PLE M ODELS OF CONSUM BEHAVIOUR ER Lower level or simple models, in contrast, fall into three broad categories – black box models, decision process models and personal variable models. Black Box models – do not consider internal variables. They focus on inputs and outputs without concerning themselves with the intervening mental processes, which might determine the outcomes. Decision process models – attempt a simple description of the stages consumers’ progress through in reaching purchasing decisions. Most are variations on the classic problem solving/decision making process of: Define problem generate alternative solutions – evaluate alternatives – decide – implement monitor. These approaches give a sound basis for marketers seeking to devise strategies that are appropriate for each stage. Inevitably they are not strong on explanation or prediction without considerable elaboration, which makes them, falls into the comprehensive model category. Personal variable models – the personal variable models omit external variables. So these models focus on the mental processes of decision-making – internal elements and processes such as perception, motivation, beliefs and values. One classic example of the personal variable model is the fisheye model, summarized as A, = B, o, 26 Where A0 = the attitude towards object o8, = the strength of belief about o a, = the evaluation aspects of 6 n = the number of beliefs Study on Consumer Behaviour Individual Determinants of Consumer Behaviors Psychological Factors Influencing The Buying Decision Process â€Å"Psychological factors operating within individuals partly determine people’s general Behaviour and thus influence their behaviour as consumers. The primary psychological influences on consumer behaviour are: †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ †¢ Perceptions Motives Ability and knowledge Attitudes Personality Even though these psychological factors operate internally, it will become apparent that consumers are also very much affected by social forces outside the individual† CONSUMER BEHAVIOUR: LEARNING AND MEMORY Learning is a change in behaviour that is caused by experience. 27 Learning can occur through simple associations between a stimulus and response, or via a complex series of cognitive activities Behavioral learning theories assume that learning occurs responses to Classical conditioning occurs when a stimulus that naturally elicits a response (an unconditioned stimulus) is paired with another stimulus that does not initially elicit this response. Over time, the second stimulus (the conditioned stimulus) comes to elicit the response as well Study on Consumer Behavior This response can also extend to other, similar stimuli in a process known as stimulus generalization. This process is the basis for such marketing strategies as licensing and family branding, where a consumer’s positive associations with a product are transferred Operant or instrumental conditioning Occurs as the person learns to perform behaviour that produce positive outcomes. While classical learning to other contexts, outcomes and avoid those that result in negative conditioning involves the pairing of two stimuli, instrumental occurs when reinforcement is delivered following a response to a stimulus. Reinforcement is positive if a reward is delivered following a response. It is negative if a negative outcome is avoided by not performing a response. Punishment occurs when a response is followed by unpleasant events. 28 Extinction of the behaviour will occur if reinforcement is no longer received. Cognitive learning occurs as a result of mental processes. For example, observational learning takes place when the consumer performs behaviour as a result of seeing someone else performing and being rewarded for it. Memory refers to the storage of learning information. The way when it is perceived determines how it will be known as sensory memory, role in retaining information is encoded stored in memory. The memory systems short-term memory, and long-term memory each play a and processing information from the outside world. Information is not stored in isolation: it is incorporated into knowledge structures, where it is associated with other related data. The location of product information in associative networks and the level of abstraction at when and how this information will influence the likelihood of salience (or which it is coded, help to determine be activated at a later time. Some factors that retrieval include the level of familiarity with an item, its prominence) in memory, and whether the information was presented in pictorial or written form. 29 Products also play a role as memory markers: they are used by consumers to retrieve memories about past experiences (autobiographical memories) and are often valued for their ability to do this. This function also contributes to the use of nostalgia in marketing strategies. Memory for product information can be measured through either recognition or Recall techniques. Consumers are more likely to recognize an advertisement if it is presented to them than to recall one without being given any cues. † (See Solomon 1994 137-138) Learning theories. Marketing and Involvement Theory Examples of low involvement Examples of high involvement Free sample of hair shampoo delivered Faced with mounting debts, individual through front door and stored in responds to advertisement offering bathroom. When usual shampoo runs to solve the problems with a single out, trial pack is used, found acceptable loan. Learns the cost of borrowing and purchased (or not). From loan sharks A positive emotional response is the generation of higher-order Generated by the use of a particulate conditioning allows the customer to Classical pop tune. This becomes associated have positive feelings about a Conditioning with a product, even though the product, which may be more person alternatives, does not consciously pay expensive than e. g. attention to the advertising luxury goods. 30 A common brand of baked beans id Clothes purchased and worn give Operant purchased. They taste ‘OK 1 . The rise to numerous complements, conditioning consumer continues to purchase that Further cloths of the same label are brand bought. An individual learns that Amstrad Keen cooks learn about various Iconic rote makes personal computers without makes of kitchen knives by careful learning ever consciously focusing on PCs or reading of Study on advertisements with they Amstrads advertisements find enjoyable Consumer Behaviour The Guardian’ unavailable at Commuter, distressed by daily Insight newsagents when on holiday, difficulties with parking decides to learning Customer buys ‘the Independent’ purchase mountain bike to solve the instead problem Consumer spots ‘low salt, low sugar’ Consumers as a family, having won Latent beans on the supermarket shelf, the pools, decide that they can now learning Remembers healthy eating afford their ‘dream car. Choose advertisements and purchases tin model they have always wanted A child learns parental roles by Individual observes reaction to a Vicarious observation but without really friend s new style sutt before deciding learning thinking about it to purchase Car taken to garage for service. Commuter finds level of smoke Customer offered a new higher-Experimental pollution on upper deck of bus too powered model to use for 31 the day-learning offensive to tolerate and decides to Impressed by the car, the consumer travel on lower deck decides to move up the range when the time comes to change car. Consumer Decision Processes The most common, everyday problem solving sequence is: 32 33 In the marketing context, Engel, Blackwell and Minored suggest that this becomes: S Information search S Evaluate alternatives S Purchase and Outcomes Stage I: Information Search The first step in this stage is often internal memory search to establish whether the individual possesses enough information about the available options to make a decision without further action. In low involvement consumer decisions this may often be the case, but external search is more usual with high involvement purchases. Opinion leadership and word-of-mouth communication will be significant at this stage, as well as the more formal marketing and advertising messages. Similarly, past learning, stored in the memory system, is shown to be a significant source even in extended problem solving situations. The information search stage is also affected strongly by individual differences and environmental factors e.g. the traits and orientation of some individual’s means that they have the personality characteristic of caution – such people will tend to conduct extensive and detailed information search. Similarly families and reference groups are likely to make significant contributions to the amount and style of search conducted. 34 Many of our decisions are often made on less than complete information. The important point is that the purchaser feels that enough information has been gathered. Study on Consumer Behavior In the light of the differences between high and low involvement purchasing, the perception of the value of continued search is likely to be significantly higher in high involvement decisions. The external search is dominated by marketing messages and the information so gathered should be fed into the memory system via processes similar to the research on Perception: Exposure Attention Comprehension.