How Distance Affects Relationships

I think distance can effect relationships in several ways, depending on the situation, the kind of relationship, also how or if the relationship is maintained. Fortunently I haven't had to part from close relationships often, but I can share two examples in which distance had an opposite effect. I grew up in a small town, there was only one school that went from kindergarten thru eighth-grade. So with the exception of the occational â€Å"new student† the people in my class had known me since I was 5 years old. Not only did I see them in class, I saw them after school as well.Because of course Carbonado is essentially one neighborhood, we all shared the same stomping-grounds. I had known my best-friend Kimberly it seemed all my life. We shared everything, sat beside each other in class, were partners in every school project, and were together after school every day until our parents called us home for dinner. Together all the time since Kindergarten. I don't know how it so sev erely changed seemingly over-night. After eighth-grade Carbonado students had to then ride a bus for twenty minutes to get to High-School in Buckley.Up to this point it was the biggest change Kim and I were ever faced with, but one thing was the same we were together. For the first time we had classes without each other. No big deal, we just met after and it seemed like nothing was going to change us in the begining. Suddenly being around new people was exciting and soon meeting at passing was just that, passing. But, we still had the bus rides and we sat next to each other sharing every detail of our day like best-friends do. Then came the boys, and their cars, so the bus rides faded away as well.Believe it or not this was only six months into our freshman year! Six months, after all those years. I didn't make it through that first year before deciding Alternative-School was a better fit for me. It was 5 miles from Kim's school, but it might as well have been half-way across the wo rld. Years passed, we got cars, other friends, and jobs but we still lived within a square-mile as we had growing up. The actual distance was an illusion, we had grown apart. I still love Kim with all my heart, but when we have our yearly chat on the phone or I run into her at the gas station or the post ffice our conversation feels more like â€Å"proper proceedure†. I know that we still do have a relationship of sorts, it's just not the intimate bond we once shared. Distance I'm sure harms more relationships than it helps, but I think in some situations it effects can build a stonger bond. This is especially true in the relationship between my dad. My father is the first man I ever loved and I am his first born child. I was born in 1984 with several holes in my heart. I had multiple proceedures including open-heart surgery before my first birthday.My parents were 19 and 21 years old and the surgeries I had undergone had only been sucessfull a few years prior. It was an emot ional roller-coaster for them to endure. I believe coming close to loosing me contributed to the close relationship we shared as I was growing up. I can still remember what his truck sounded like coming up our street when he came home from work, and the smell of the de-grease soap he used to was his hands for dinner. I remember thinking of him during my school day, trying so hard on all my work because he always told me I could do anything.I couldn't wait to show him art-work, science projects, and report cards. I was always rewarded with kind words and a proud smile as I followed him into his garage where he fondly displayed my achievements. Along the way whenever I had any trouble, he could explain things in a way that made perfect sense. He understood me. Not only did I feel loved by his actions, I knew I was loved by his words. As time went by it became obvious my brothers and dad shared more common interests so, sometimes I was left behind.Somehow my he always found a way to sp end special time with me too, even if that meant taking me to the mall or going to a movie he would rather not see. My teen-years hit our relationship like an earthquake, a shaking of the ground caused by the shifting of my priorities. Suddenly my friends were the most important thing in my world. I became decietful, disrespectful, and I felt my dad just didn't understand me anymore. This constant clash lingered throughout the final years of my adolescence, until I was finally free. My liberation came in the form of a one-bedroom apartment in the â€Å"big ity† of Kent. My boyfriend and I living off of minimum wage, having a diet consisting of Top-Ramen and canned soup was only fun for so long. A couple of years later I was missing the home-cooked meals and the home-town feeling I'd known all my life. Above all I missed my family. I got laid-off from my job and I didn't know what to do. The next morning there was a knock at my door, I was barely awake. I rolled out of bed and staggered thru my dark apartment to get the door. It was my mom, â€Å"get dressed your dad got you a job, a good one† she said.When she told me it was at a machine shop my stomach dropped â€Å"I can't work there! † i said. Then my mom said I should at least check it out, it was for more money and it was worth a try. I entered into the welcome office and it calmed my nerves some. I shook the managers hand and he offered me what sounded like an office job, I accepted. Then he took me to my work area, through these heavy doors, I was on the shop floor, sparks flying, machines running and grease everywhere. I thought about telling him no but something stopped me.I saw my dad in his work area and when he saw me he had the happiest look on his face. As we approched him I saw family photos and a card I had made him 15 years prior in the top of his toolbox. I could not let him down. We had lunch and he gave me the same encouraging words he gave me growing up. It gave me the strength I needed. We had lunch together for the next 2 years and got to know each other in a differant way. I truly believe the distance from my family allowed me to grow, and had a very positive effect on my relationship with my father. Our bond is unbreakable and I know now nothing can change that.

Proprietary Versus Contract Security Essay

As an organization grows so must the security, and it has to be on the top of the list. When considering what type of security to choose, either proprietary or contact, they need to look at the value of the organization? This value within the organization will need some sort of protection to deter theft, vandalism, and destruction. The boardroom conversation could to from, â€Å"We have nice stuff† to â€Å"How are we going to protect it.† Leadership will need to decide how they will handle the issue of protecting their items that the business owns. In the process we will need to look at the pros and cons of both proprietary and contract security. Both of them have very big advantages associated with them but most of the time only one meets the needs of the organization. We have established that the organization has nice stuff, they need to protect it, we assume they have the month to support either option and they have a choice to make. This issues come down to managem ent, and cost. One option provides for maximum control whereas the other does not allow for much control. The costs are different also. One option there is a set cost, but it could be high and other option the cost could depend upon the capabilities of the office and how many people are hired for the organization. We have defined the problem and lay out the possible options. We will explore the outcomes, their advantages, and their disadvantages. It comes down to what the right fit for the organization. Additionally we will look at these differences between proprietary versus contract security as it compares to consistency, effectiveness, and obligation (COHEN (1979). Choosing Contract or Proprietary Security). The cost of proprietary security is costly. The organization is in control of reimbursing for benefits and greater salaries for their knowledgeable workers. The position of proprietary security is greater; it typically draws a higher class of sentinel. The salaries have a tendency to be lower for a contract security company in lieu of uniforms, absent leave, exercises, drills, and benefits that are enclosed by the company. Management of proprietary security workers often touch more devoted to a specific organization because of solidarity with follow workers, and has a chance for improvement and advancements. There are times when an organization may have to improve or discharge staff, which creates a problematic issue within an organization. The use of contract security, the organization has a chance to contract with staffing problems simply and swiftly. With steadiness the organization needs regular security configuration that desires to be intervened; acquiring regular proprietary security is the easiest way to go. A significant consideration is determining which sort of company to use is that irrespective of which kind of company we hand-pick, worker throughput is an option. Conditional on the location, this might be problematic that touches the security and well-being of folks within the organization. The efficiency of proprietary security workers are qualified to meet the exact needs of the organization, which aids them to become more accustomed with the framework of the organization and identify employees and personnel approaching the organization. With a higher throughput percentage, contract security sentinels are not particular friendly with the organizations workforce. This affects their devotion and obligation and unfavorably, their disadvantage, affects their advancement and performance. Obligation is a risk because when an organization chooses to accept proprietary security, it is accountable for all background checks, certifying that all candidates has the appropriate training, credentials, and qualifications for the duties. When functioning with a contract security business, we do not have to be concerned with qualifications, skills, credentials, and recruitment or background checks. It is all controlled by the contract security business. They take full liability for the officer’s action and discipline if needed. Advantages and disadvantages of Proprietary Security The advantages for hiring in-house security personnel are numerous. The first main point is that we have total control of the policies and the enforcement. We have total control or reporting and rules for the guards. Another advantage is that you can pay them as you build up the organization, so the cost is not one big payment but smaller payments. Hiring Proprietary Security personnel is another good thing. You can be sure of the character of the person that you are bringing into your organization, and you can ask the questions that we need during an interview. Proprietary Security can be compensated well enough so the business can minimize turnover. Turnover can have a down affect if the organizations is not paying security well enough based upon standards. The disadvantages of proprietary security are too varying. The main point is that you have to pay for additional training. There are rules and regulations by law that govern the type of training required based on the securities responsibly. Another key point is you have to schedule their hours to ensure that there is coverage during important times. You have additional benefits and insurance requirements for those that carry a weapon. Most important if the organization downsizes there is a chance that security will be cut whereas a contract security is funded through the year and will be maintain. Advantages and Disadvantages Contract Security The first key advantage point for an organization is that they come at a fixed price. When the bidding process is done, we pay the contract security that amount, and we are done. No additional cost to the organization. The next items you can state the statement of work with what training is required. Their major key factor is that using contract security we are responsible for ensuring there is someone on duty. Turnover is not a factor because contract security must have someone trained and ready to guard your organization. The last point and is beneficial to the overhead cost of the organization is that you do not have to worry about additional paying of benefits or insurance. The disadvantage of contract security is that you have less control of the policies and their work. You do not know if the contract security have been properly cleared and is good character for your organization. The contract security employee works for the organization and is best for that organization but wi ll be probably higher than the best interest for your organization. The finally point is a present lack of understanding or control, and you always have in the mind, who they working for. (Contract Security Guards or Proprietary (In-House) Guards, July 6, 2009) Conclusion Who is best for the organization, proprietary or contact security? There is no right or wrong answer to this question. The short answer fits best or fits with your organization. The organization must analyze all the advantages and disadvantages of determining what the best option for the organization is. The choice can be difficult because if something goes wrong it points back to you, and you could be out of a job. The key factor to determine what you need is what is being protected? There is no right answer or solution to determine what is needed for the organization. The organization must look at their needs and requirements and what each advantage or disadvantage provides (Security Officers as a Business) References COHEN (1979). Choosing Contract or Proprietary Security. https://www.ncjrs.gov/App/publications/Abstract.aspx?id=61691 Contract Security Guards or Proprietary (In-House) Guards, July 6, 2009 http://www.securitysourceonline.com/blog/post.cfm?e=37 Security Officers as a Business http://www.securitymagazine.com/articles/security-officers-as-a-business-strategy-1

Benefits And Challenges Of Department Stores

Benefits And Challenges Of Department Stores Department stores represent a large retail organization which offers to consumers a large choice of goods and services. Consumers have the opportunity to compare price, quality, and service at different stores at the same time and in a limited place. So the company can profit from individual benefits other sectors. The strategy of F4U is not only to sell quality goods at a reasonable price , but also to offer a unique service .Its prices are neither as cheap as the lower end department store, nor as expensive as the high-end store. F4U will try to bring the immediate attention of consumer through visual effects like layout, displays and colored posters and will place itself directly in front of the shoppers. The company wants, thereby, to entice different target groups and gain those other brands according to the motto† good quality, fashion style, best price†. In addition F4U intend to retain its consumer through a bonus program and to collect their personal data to bui ld an aggregate profile of individual consumers to target them with special offers and appropriate advertisements. Benefits and challenges of Department stores: Department stores offer to the customer the direct experience to touch and feel the product and judge its quality as well as the possibility of living the purchase as experience (Steinmann 2011:27) .The customer can try the clothes and take them immediately. Whereby the number of returns can be decreased. The face-to-face contact is crucial for many consumers especially for old people or people who dislike shopping online. Another advantage is the longer opening hours compared to specialty retail stores especially on Friday and Saturday. Department stores have also many disadvantages such as the existing of a concrete and inflexible location. Consequently, the location is a crucial factor for the shopping place. In this context, many consumers opine that, the fixed opening hours and parking fees are unfavorable. In addition, the time exposure, due to the travelling time, could be also a problem for some consumers (Heinemann 2008:19) Furthermore, department stores emerge several costs for the company such as lease costs and staff costs. Catalog selling Catalog selling as a channel for F4U Catalog selling is one of the most popular strategies used in Fashion game. The approach involves the creation of a printed catalog with a listing of products for sale. Every product is explicitly described and clearly illustrated with a picture to make the shopping experience as real as possible for the consumer. The catalog contains also a size chart to help consumer choosing the appropriate size. F4U tries, across catalog selling, to expand its clientele and above all to attain consumers, who are not familiar with using the internet or who dislike to walk around the stores for buying clothes. The catalog will comprise different ordering informations. The consumer can choose between ordering by telephone and entering the order at the online site.F4u will also offer its consumers various delivery options .They range from shipment directly to the consumer’s address, to delivering the goods to a F4u retail store or simply to a Packstation.

An evaluation of the claim that Rousseau's Social Contract sacrifices Essay - 1

An evaluation of the claim that Rousseau's Social Contract sacrifices the individual to the collective - Essay Example His father got into a quarrel with a French captain, and at the risk of imprisonment, left Geneva for the rest of his life. Rousseau stayed behind and was cared for by an uncle who sent him along with his cousin to study in the village of Bosey. In 1725 Rousseau was apprenticed to an engraver and began to learn the trade. Although he did not detest the work, he thought his master to be violent and tyrannical. He, therefore, left Geneva in 1728 and fled to Annecy. Here he met Louise de Warens who was instrumental in his conversion to Catholicism which forced him to forfeit his Genevan citizenship (in 1754 he would make a return to Geneva and publicly convert back to Calvanism). Rousseau’s relationship to Mme. de Warens lasted for several years and eventually became romantic. During this time he earned money through secretarial, teaching and musical jobs.† (Delaney J. J. â€Å"Jean Jacques Rousseau† Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy. ... erous rebel, suspected of crime and insanity, and seeing, in his last months, the apotheosis of his enemy—how did it come about that this man, after his death, triumphed over Voltaire, revived religion, transformed education, elevated the morals of France, inspired the Romantic movement and the French Revolution, influenced the philosophy of Kant and Schopenhauer, the plays of Schiller, the novels of Goethe, the poems of Wordsworth, Byron, and Shelly, the socialism of Marx, the ethics of Tolstoy, and altogether, add more effect upon posterity than any other writer or thinker of that eighteenth century in which writers were more influential than they had ever been before? Here, if anywhere, the problem faces us: what is the role of genius in history, of man versus the mass and the state? (Durant, Will & Ariel. 1967. Rousseau and Revolution. Simon and Schuster. New York.3) Jean Jacques Rousseau (1712-1778), a philosopher in the eighteenth century French sense, was not what would now be called a â€Å"philosopher†. Nevertheless, he had a powerful influence on philosophy, as on literature and tastes and manners and politics. Whatever may be our opinion of his merits as a thinker, we must recognize his immense importance as a social force. This importance came mainly from his appeal to the heart, and to what, in his day, was called â€Å"sensibility.† He is the father of the Romantic Movement, the initiator of systems of thought which infer non-human facts from human emotions, and the inventor of the political philosophy of pseudo-democratic dictatorships as opposed to traditional absolute monarchies. Ever since his time, those who considered themselves reformers have been divided into two groups, those who followed him and those who followed John Locke, an English

Economic Impacts on Event Management Literature review

Economic Impacts on Event Management - Literature review Example Damster & et. al. (2006: 11) observed, â€Å"Events can be described as transient, and every event is a unique blending of its duration, setting, management and people†. Events can be of various types on the basis of the invested amount as well as on the basis of its purpose. However, the management process in organising any event is almost similar taking into account a broad process of analysing, planning, directing, organising and controlling. It is in this context that market analysis and the economic trends are currently being considered as vital aspects to be considered while planning for event management (Getz, 2008; O'Toole, 2000). Although, the concern has been noticed very recently in the context of event management, the significance of economic impacts has gained considerable attention in the field of research. From a similar perspective, this paper will also intend to critical review a few literatures which are focused on the economic impacts observed during event m anagement. 2.0. The Dimensions of Event Management Events have always been an inseparable part of the social culture of different countries. But in the current era, the impact of events on the social setting and the rapidly growing influence of event management profession as a profitable career option have increased to a large extent. Along with the growing attention towards the concept of event management as a newly developed extension to managerial paradigm, the conception has also developed to be more complex and multi-dimensional. As noted by Damster & et. al. (2006), in the current scenario, events can be classified into various categories on the basis of purpose and also based on its size. Stating precisely, Gertz (2008) noted the classification of events on the basis of their purpose as cultural events, political events, corporate events, private events, recreational as well as sports events can be documented as a few of the classified categories of events. Where cultural eve nts can be recognised as the festivals and carnivals as well as commemorations, the political events include summits, VIP visits and royal occasions. Similarly, meetings and trade shows are included in the corporate events classification, while private events can be illustrated in terms of weddings, birthday parties and such other occasions. Further elaborating on the concept of event management, Damster & et. al. (2006) classified events into three broad categories, i.e. special events, hallmark events, and mega events. As embarked in the study of Jago (1997), researchers have provided intense significance to the aspect of special events. These events are mostly termed as the programmes organised exclusively on days which are excluded in the mentioned holiday lists for special reasons. Even though, a wide range of researches have been developed focusing on the concept of special events, there is a substantial lacuna witnessed in literatures which can provide with a comprehensive an d just definition to the concept (Jago, 1997). A major feature of the special events can be attributed as its intention to attract large crowds and media attentions being unique and fundamentally emphasised on retaining tourists. Thus,

The birth and rise of islam Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The birth and rise of islam - Essay Example God, provides the basis for a collective sense of loyalty to God that transcends race, nationality, class and even differences in religious practice. Thus, all Muslims belong to one community, the umma, irrespective of their ethnic or national background Muhammad was born in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, about 570 C.E. His father, ‘Abd Allah, died before Muhammad’s birth. His mother, Aminah, died when he was about six years old. At that time the Arabs practiced a form of worship of Allah that was centered in the Mecca valley, at the sacred site of the Kabah. A simple cube like building where a black meteorite was revered. As Muhammad grew up, he questioned the practices of his day. At age 25, Muhammad married Khadija, a well-to-do, 40-year-old woman. At age 40, during a retreat in the hills outside Mecca, Muhammad had his first experience of Islam. The angel Gabriel appeared to a fearful Muhammad and informed him that he was Gods chosen messenger. Gabriel also communicated to Muhammad the first revelation from God. Terrified and shaken, Muhammad went to his home. His wife became the first person to accept his message and convert to Islam. After receiving a series of additional revelations, Muhammad started preaching the new reli gion, initially to a small circle of relatives and friends, and then to the general public. The Meccans first ignored Muhammad, then ridiculed him. As more people accepted Muhammads call, the Meccans became more aggressive. After failing to sway Muhammad away from the new religion they started to persecute his less prominent followers. When this approach did not work, the opposing Meccans decided to persecute Muhammad himself. By this time, two main tribes from the city of Yathrib, about 300 km (200 mi) north of Mecca, had invited Muhammad to live there. The clan leaders invited Muhammad to Yathrib as an impartial religious authority to arbitrate disputes. In return, the leaders pledged to accept Muhammad as a prophet and thus support the new

Lesson Plan 8 Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Lesson Plan 8 - Assignment Example Once they are finished pasting the pictures on the cardboards, they will be arranging themselves in a line by page numbers and presenting their â€Å"story†. 9:12 – Students should present their picture storybook to the class. They should form a line in front according to the page numbers. Each student must give his/her own sentence to the page he/she is holding to complete the story. There are 16 pictures in the story. 9:35 – When they are finished, they should go back to their seats. Teacher will bind the students’ story book with a yarn. Teacher will ask students what is different or same with the Teacher’s story & their picture story book. In class Assessment: The students will arrange themselves in a line and re-tell the 3 Little Pigs’ story by giving their own sentences for the pictures they are holding. Teacher will assess if students are able to re-tell the story by the sentences they will give to the pictures. Homework: A picture of a house is pasted on their notebooks with this sentence â€Å"This pig made a house of _________†. Students are asked to finish the sentence. They should write the material they want for the pigs house. They should also draw the material they want on the house and color if they

Tae Guk Gi (The Brotherhood of War)- (Korean) FILM ESSAY

Tae Guk Gi (The Brotherhood of War)- (Korean) FILM - Essay Example Jin-seok learns of his brothers plans and hopes to stop him from getting himself killed (Je-gyu 2004). He is horrified to see Jin-tae transformed by the war from a caring brother into a cruel soldier that seems to be pursuing glory rather than sacrificing himself to save his brother. The growing division between Jin-seok and Jin-tae reflects the growing division between the people of North Korea and South Korea following the communist revolution while reflecting on the many tragedies of the war. Although Jin-tae succeeds in earning the Medal of Honor for all the risks he takes, he is not successful in sheltering Jin-seok from the war. Jin-seok comes to resent his brother for what he is doing and refuses to go home. However, when the opportunity arises, he seeks out their family to let them know that both of them are okay (Je-gyu 2004). He returns home to find Young-shin being taken away for helping the communists, which she did for food and not for ideological reasons (Je-gyu 2004). When Jin-seok tries to prevent anti-communist partisans from executing Young-shin, he is imprisoned and treated as a communist traitor. Jin-tae attempts to intervene to help his brother and Young-shin and gets himself into trouble as well. Despite his efforts to protect his brother, Jin-tae is unable to stop his commander from ordering the prisoners, which include his brother, from being burned alive when the North Koreans are advancing on their encampment. Somehow, Jin-seok manages to escape th e fire. In the end, the two brothers are reunited after Jin-tae is captured by the North Koreans and joins their ranks as fanatic leading their "Flag Unit", thinking his brother is dead (Je-gyu 2004). Jin-seok loses his hatred for what his brother had become and risks his life to try to bring Jin-tae home safely. Although Jin-seok has to wait 50 years later to discover the fate of his brother, Jin-tae

DOES CULTURE IMPACT ON ENTREPRENEURIAL ACTTIVITY Essay

DOES CULTURE IMPACT ON ENTREPRENEURIAL ACTTIVITY - Essay Example Independence was found out to be a vital in entrepreneurial activity. (Hofstede, 2001 p. 225). Hofstede believed that degree of autonomy differed from society to society held that in low poor distance societies. (Wu et al) The second dimension of national culture is uncertainty. Uncertainty avoidance refers to the way people cope with uncertainty. People of high uncertainty avoidance and people with low uncertainty. Entrepreneurial activities are full of uncertainty challenges and risks. (Wu et al) Entrepreneurship has been defined as new venture creation that is growth oriented and generates employment as well as small businesses and micro enterprises that may provide self employment .In this definition among many others' entrepreneurship encompasses small profit oriented economic activities. The scholastic view last centuries on entrepreneurship was not on economic efficiency but rather on social-political terms since small business were the main suppliers of employment. Many economists were convinced that the future of many economies prosperity will be determined by large corporations and that small business would eventually die away. Recently however, the notion among scholars has changed and entrepreneurship is regarded as one of the vehicles to economic prosperity. Entrepreneurial activity has contributed not only in creation of employment but also in terms of innovation and competitiveness (Lowe, 2000, p. 9). John major (then chief secretary to the UK treasury) in May 1 989 said "there is a great deal of evidence to show that the jobs and products of tomorrow are highly likely to come from activity of the small business sectorin my judgment the future belongs to them". The perpetual succession of entrepreneurship contrary to scholar's belief has led classical theorists to review their arguments on entrepreneurship. There is no clear and orchestrated works on entrepreneurship but economic, financial and administrative factors do not sufficiently explain the variations in entrepreneurial activities' these led scholars to consider culture as a determinant to entrepreneurial activities (Lowe 2000, p.16). Studies have been done to determine whether cultural differences impact on entrepreneurial activities Culture is defined a set off values, beliefs and expected behaviors (Hofstede, 1980 pg. 4). It has also been defined as the collective programming of mind which distinguishes the member of one group or category of people from those of another. In his later definition, Hofstede refers to culture referencing to a nation but acknowledges that this yardstick alone cannot be used, not only does culture differ across nation but also differs regionally, ethni cally and socially and from all these angles culture affects organizational behavior (Hofstede, 1980 pg. 25).Culture for the purpose of this study can be analyzed in different set of interdependent and interrelated categories namely personal traits, organizational culture, branch or industry culture and national culture. This paper will look at the look at personal traits

Operations Management as an integral component of a manufacturing Essay

Operations Management as an integral component of a manufacturing industry - Essay Example MRP ensures that there is just about enough materials available for production. If this planning is not efficiently done, there is the likelihood of either finding oneself in a situation where the materials for production is less than required leading to disruption in production or having too much of materials resulting in wasteful spending. MRP has evolved with the computer technology. Its full potential embracing all aspects is prevalent in data base software and there is tremendous scope for utilization of all the heads and sub-heads for the purpose of manufacture of unique and desirable product. It operates on the basis of a master schedule and develops the requirement for materials. The software is programmed to procure different materials for a product. MRP has to be tuned to production planning. Otherwise there will be mismatch in procurement. Normally, MRP through the use of computer is good for mass production where the volume of manufacture is high. Production planning is a part of the master schedule and sees through the MRP. It is an input to capacity plan. The MRP software is complex and so the user has to be provided training so that he is in a position to apply his knowledge in the use the software to the actual requirement of the organization. He must be capable of understanding the software to maximize its use so that the computer is not seen as something that only produces reports with information of non-relevance and disuse. Once the details in the customers' orders are fed into the integrated database, the system checks the schedule as against the current capacity. If the inputs of the materials requirement exceed current capacity, it provides the alternatives for increasing capacity or creating adjustments in the master schedule. The process of MRP must suit its environment to optimize production. In other words, business adapts MRP to suit the market. The computerized version of MRP is complex and is designed to cater to high volumes (Material Requirement Planning MRP). While on the subject, it is necessary to gauge the break-even point with MRP. There are several ways of analyzing the break-even point. Costs and sales forecast analysis is one of them (Decision Making). Total Quality Management (TQM) Total Quality Management is that aspect of management where there is awareness of maintaining quality at every level. According to the International Organization for Standardization, "TQM is a management approach for an organization, centered

Betrayal and Manipulation in the Accidental Billionaires Essay Example for Free

Betrayal and Manipulation in the Accidental Billionaires Essay In the Accidental Billionaires, the motif of manipulation and betrayal is prevalent. Mark Zuckerburg is the prime embodiment of manipulation and betrayal throughout the course of the work. Another character also attributed with such qualities is Sean Parker. Mark and Sean are similar in this aspect; manipulating their own world to achieve their goals. In the first few chapters of the book, the reader is introduced to the Winklevoss twins. The twins turn to Mark to aid them in their social networking idea, the HarvardConnection. After trusting Mark with their program, Mark begins to manipulate the idea into his own. In a very subtle way, Mark delays the twins in time to sire his own program. This action reveals to the reader that Mark is a lone wolf. Mark, told to us in the book, is not interested in money. For example, â€Å"†¦Microsoft had offered Mark between one and two million dollars to go to work for them-and amazingly, Mark had turned them down† (Mezrich 15). This action should be noted as the aspect of working alone seems to be, to Mark, the most efficient way to achieve fame. Mark is highly influenced by Bill Gates, a man who rose out of the very same school Mark attends and manipulated his way throughout his pursuits of Microsoft, and in Mark’s point of view, individual. With his displeasing physique and social incompetence, it is easy to see why people underestimate Mark and are taken advantage of. Another character to note is Sean Parker. Sean Parker is a foil to the protagonist, Mark. Mark pairs up with Sean after he launches ‘thefacebook’. Sean has a history of manipulating his way through major companies with the agenda of getting rich only, quite the opposite of Mark. Sean is extremely energetic, whereas Mark seems to be lazy as represented by his lack variety in his attire- flipflops, jeans, etc. Sean, however, was betrayed by those companies he used to work for, but, ironically, he pursues yet another company that betrays him in the end. Betrayal, through manipulation, is in the subtitle of the book, â€Å"A tale of sex, money, genius, and betrayal. † Betrayal is mentioned last in this climax because that is to show the most important motif and a symbol of the book’s overall structure- It goes from Eduardo and Mark seeking attention to ‘get laid’, then pursue money with genius innovation of modern social networking, and finally, Mark’s betrayal is concluded when he removes Eduardo and Sean from his life because they threatened his brainchild, Facebook. The motif of betrayal is very subtle to the reader. Even after reading the subtitle that Mezrich so blatantly states before the beginning chapter, I was manipulated into completely forgetting about betrayal and instead was focused on the pursuit to fame. Even the title fools the reader in stating the plural form of billionaire, but only one billionaire is spawned at the conclusion of the book. Just as the twins, Eduardo, and Sean, Mark’s real agenda was cloaked to me, until it finally dawned in the closing chapters.

Feminism in Film

Feminism in Film Feminism In Film Feminism called for positive female characters but seems to have contributed to its own decline as a political movement by refusing to recognise the body as a site of transformation and experimentation, capable of being imagined outside the notions of lack,passive, and other. A person can be masculine and feminine, active and passive, and increasingly the body is transformed through exercise, fashion, make-up, and hairstyles. Individuality is the defining feature of a contemporary consumer culture. The idea that a person can be anything he or she wants to be makes political movements like feminism increasingly unnecessary. Current society sees people as consumers and films are made for people as consumers. In capitalist societies grand political ideologies have been replaced by individual consumerism. One could ask whether feminism is relevant any more as women occupy the same roles as men in society and in films. Female characters are present in every genre, from road movies to westerns, from action to science fiction. Cinema is seen as pure entertainment in a world where individuals search for pleasure and satisfaction. The female action heroines represent similarity and difference, a middle space between binaries of masculine and feminine. They have contributed to the new spaces opened up for women in films and in societies. One could see these figures as a celebration of difference and individualism. You can be and become anything you want. It is no longer necessary to organise the world through rigid binaries. By denying women the possibility to enjoy images of active, aggressive, and even violent women without reducing them to pseudo males, feminism has lost sight of the agenda it set out to achieve. Furthermore, historically feminism like other critical movements has rarely addressed subjects that are not white and fundamentally heterosexual. Feminist film theory has inherited many of the cultural attributes and biases of its male predecessors. The centrality of sexual difference, especially in psychoanalytic feminism, and its difficulty in dealing with other differences- of class, race or sexual preference- have seemed to fix feminist theory within the very dualism it seeks to explain (Thornham, 1997). Feminism has more or less exhausted itself through its obsession with binary logic. Films are increasingly enjoyed as pure entertainment and the battle of the sexes has been replaced by celebration of difference and consumer culture. However, this does not mean that the problems addressed by feminists have been solved or that they have disappeared.

Analysis Of The Characteristics Of Online Fashion Shoppers Marketing Essay

Analysis Of The Characteristics Of Online Fashion Shoppers Marketing Essay Online fashion shopping is a segment of e-commerce that has both a large consumer marketbase and an ever-progressing curve of technology information development. The elements that go into market research for shopping online involve two main aspects: the consumer and technology, as discrete yet related elements. There has been much research conducted which explores both facets, and research which has attempted to view the impact of one area on the other. Consumer behavior in the online marketplace has typically been reported as influenced mainly by the factor of convenience. If it is convenient, then the consumer will favor online shopping. Technology has been most often cited to influence consumer shopping behavior if it is easy to use. Both the consumer and the technology element have undergone an evolution that is not yet finished in terms of defining market elements. As technology develops, so too that influence consumer behavior, which in turn influences technology, and so on. Va rious consumer models have evolved to explain online shopping behavior, and for the purposes of the following research thesis, both the utilitarian and hedonistic motivation models are referenced and applied. Additionally, various technology acceptance models have been posited as antecedents in defining consumer behavior for online shopping. A description of some commonly utilized models is provided in this thesis, though no one model is utilized here. However, elements of the technology acceptance models that are fairly ubiquitous across the models are utilized, those chiefly being the perceived ease of use (of technology) and the perceived benefit to the consumer of utilizing the technology (here, online fashion shopping). This research thesis looks at personal characteristics as they influence various behaviours and attitudes toward online fashion shopping. A survey questionnaire is used as the data gathering instrument. Responses are reported as frequencies and cross-tabulations . A discussion on the findings is offered in both the section on the analysis and in the conclusion of this thesis. CHAPTER 1: Introduction: Concepts, Issues, and Definitions Statement of Purpose The purpose of this research paper is to examine the attitudes and characteristics of people who use the internet to engage in online-shopping to determine if there are personal or demographic factors that influence online fashion shopping. Various technology acceptance models are examined and utilized to elucidate those factors of the consumer that drive their online fashion shopping behavior (Zhou, Dai, Zhang, 2007). The importance of this issue has its foundations in the growing prevalence in web-based consumerism. Research into online consumer shopping behavior tends to focus on either the technology aspect or the consumer aspect. These two approaches are but mirrors of each other, with data from each aspect used to tweak marketing and technology elements. While a great deal of online shopping research concerns the web interface and how it is perceived by users and how that influence their buying behavior, there is also a great deal of research on consumer behavior, including demographics. The relevance of this particular research project approaches the topic from the consumer end, through examining their actual personal attributes and characteristics, with influencing factors as found in the technology aspect. Consumers, in this case online fashion shoppers, have choices in their shopping preferences, which is of primary interest to retailers and marketers. The factors which influence their buying decisions from front-end identification of a need or desire to back-end fulfillment through market selection and procurement can be elucidated through examining the attributes and characteristics of these consumers (Cho Fiorito, 2008). This data may inform not only the identification of trends in consumerism, but also practical applications for web-based marketing applications. The first decade of the 21st century shows a domination of internet activity in many aspects of modernized cultures, where business to consumer marketing has proliferated (Dennis, Harris, Sandju, 2002). As knowledge increases regarding the factors that influence online fashion consumers, business can incorporate both the consumer characteristics and the technology aspects required to meet those consumer characteristic-driven choices (Kim Forsythe, Factors Affecting Adoption of Product Virtualization Technology for Online Consumer Electronics Shopping, 2009). The outcome is an optimal online fashion shopping environment that recognizes and adjusts to the influencing elements of its customer base. This research paper will explore those characteristics of the online fashion shopper, in order to better inform both business and technology requirements in this market segment. A comprehensive literature review on the topic is offered to illuminate the topic. A research strategy for examining the topic is given, with relevant design elements in the data-gathering instrument chosen for data acquisition. A conclusion is provided to highlight the main points of this research paper and to synthesize the topics. Research Question The research question for this thesis project is posed thusly: What are the attributes and characteristics of online fashion shoppers that influence their utilization of online shopping sites? 1.3 Objectives of Research The objectives of the research focus on the following areas: To examine the characteristic of online clothing customer. To explore the attitude of people toward online clothing purchasing.   To identify the factors for the use of online fashion shopping of computer-skilled people. To suggest areas of future research for online shopping that are informed by factors of technology acceptance models. The first two objectives of this research focus on consumer attributes. The third objective will be elucidated through exploring technology acceptance models. The final objective synthesizes the information gained from this research project. 1.4 Statement of General Topic Area: Online Fashion Shoppers, Defined Online shoppers are those consumers which have the following general characteristics which can inform the conceptualization of the particular consumer: They are computer-saavy (Dennis, Harris, Sandju, 2002). They have access to utilize a spending account that works with internal payment portals, such as a credit card, bank account, or paypal (Goldsmith Goldsmith, 2002). They seek expanded choice (Jayawardhena, Wright, Dennis, 2007). They seek convenience (Dixon Marsden, 2005). Psychologically, they seek immediate gratification (Zhou, Dai, Zhang, 2007). They shop for fashion items on the internet as a major shopping venue (Kim Kim, 2004). These generalities can be informed through further analysis in any one characteristic area. However, for conceptual purposes of this research paper, the online fashion shopper is a consumer of the modern age, encompassing the areas of technology in the internet age (Jayawardhena, Wright, Dennis, 2007). *BLANK PAGE BETWEEN CHAPTERS* CHAPTER 2: Literature Review 2.1 Fashion is a Gendered Practice Psychological antecedents exist in the research literature for online consumer behavior, yet fundamentally there is the issue of how fashion is perceived as a concept and how that conceptualisation affects cultural and societal perceptions. This is important to understand for its influences upon consumer behavior and the identification of consumer attributes. Fashion: An Overview In the modernized world of first world countries, asking the typical person on the street what is meant by fashion may likely get a response that has something to do with the way people dress. Others may see fashion as a trend in an of itself, as things pass in and out fashion. Yet commonly held ideas about fashion do indeed refer to the individual outward trappings that humans utilize to communicate their presence in the social sphere. These may be clothing, accessories like jewelry, or even items like tattoos or other types of body art. In essence, the making of a modern identity for the individual involves blending fashion with current social mores and attitudes (Entwhistle, 2000). Mears (2008) describes the concept of fashion in terms of how society chooses to communicate popular ideas of fashion through the use of fashion models on the catwalk. Here, posits Mears, the fashion model is constructed based on the floating norms of society, which are subject to the instability in gender ideations of society, and the whims of the cultural production markets. The instability between the rigid structures of the marketplace and an impossible idealized femininity are displayed in modern culture through the idea of the fashion model (Mears, 2008). Fashion, then, is not separate from the body. The body (self) and the items that dress the body are one; they are a reflection of the idea of gender in society (which is variable) and the product of cultural variances in the marketplace. Fashion, in essence, is the product of cultural ideas and practices about gender, place, social norms, and institutions. Concept of Gender Gender does not merely refer to the male/female dyad, in which stereotyped ways of acting are considered to be socially acceptable at any given point in social time. It is not only role ideals, though that is part of it the concept. Gender also encompasses issues of race, sexuality, geographic and spatial time and place, and social class as well (Healey, 2006). Gender also refers to sexual orientation, which may differ from ones biological reality. Buss (2010) reports that gender refers to mate selection, encompassing ideas of physical attractiveness, parental investment, reproductive capacity, and asymmetries between the maternal and paternal role. Those characteristics that were valued more by males had to do with reproductive capacity, while those characteristics valued by women dealt with resource acquisition. The cross cultural references can illuminate the ways in which the gender phenomena causes people to behave; the role of fashion, as one aspect of gender relations demonstrates the various cultural ways in which people may behave in order to choose suitable mates (Buss, 2010). Gender, as recognized as encompassing social ideas about male/female relationships and roles, as well as referring to the individual selection of mates based on male/female desirable characteristics, can inform the manner in which fashion, as a modern notion, is influenced by role stereotypes and evolutionary reproductive tendencies. Consider the role of the female model on the catwalk. Based on a construction of floating norms of society and marketplace vagaries, this idea of the female is highly sexualized, appealing to the male value of reproductive capacity in mate selection. The female idealization of the model is a communication not only to men, but also of women, stating that the ideal mate of the woman is one that can provide resources. It, the model of the catwalk fashion model, encompasses the evolutionary, social, and cultural communication desired by males, and recognized as such by females, through the manipulation of the fashion construct as a media tool of communication between the sexes (Entwhistle, 2000). Fashion, therefore, is essentially a gendered practice. Indeed, this is the practice of communication; the communication of ideas, values, desires, social ideas, and cultural norms is offered through the gender-infused evolutionary and anthropological elements of roles, mates, reproduction, and species survival (Buss, 2010). The example of the fashion model is one easy way to see the transfer of gender ideas. Male-valued ideas and female-valued conceptualizations are quickly viewed through sampling the fashion of a culture. Mate selection (sexuality, reproduction) as one aspect of the gender phenomenon, is provided through the media of fashion communication, which differs depending on time, place, and cultural influences. 2.2 Online Consumers Attributes Sorce, Perotti and Widrick (2005) studied age differences in online buying behavior. They studies 300 college students and staff from a United States university and looked for trends in attitudes based on age differences toward online shopping. Their results indicate that older and younger shoppers buy equally, though younger shoppers and especially first time online shoppers tend to be more varied in the products they buy, while older shoppers tend toward specificity in their buying behavior. Additionally, age differences in buying behavior can help retailers predict age-related product purchase variance, with older shoppers tending to purchase family-related items such as toys and sporting goods at a greater rate than younger shoppers, while younger shoppers tended to purchase items like music, technology, and health-related services as a greater rate than older shoppers. This age difference in product segmentation reflects a broader trend in generational internet use. Jones and Fo x (2009) report that the 18-32 year old age group are more tech-savvy digital natives engaging in a wide range of internet activities, while age groups above 32 years tend to use the internet for banking, shopping, and research (Jones Fox, 2009). Gender differences have also been researched as indicators of online shopping preferences (Kim Forsythe, Factors Affecting Adoption of Product Virtualization Technology for Online Consumer Electronics Shopping, 2009). The use of internet related activities has traditionally been apportioned to a male-dominated sphere (Jayawardhena, Wright, Dennis, 2007). Women perceive a higher level of risk in online shopping than men (Garbarino Strahilevitz, 2004). The trend from a male-dominated, pro-risk approach to internet use is changing, and women are fast closing the perceived gender gap in online utilization (Kim Forsythe, 2009). The male/female difference may be different depending on culture and sexual orientation. Weiser (2000) studied the factors that influence the use of the internet by women. A large survey sample of males and females was used to assess user preferences for internet use. Men preferred to use the internet for education and leisure, while women preferred to use it for communication and assistance with academics (Weiser, 2000). Wolf (2004) suggests that women tend to use emotion in their utilization of the internet, reflecting a stance that gender-based market psychology may inform retailers on how to construct their online portals. Rodgers and Harris (2003) report that three areas affect both men and womens use of e-commerce, those being emotion, trust, and convenience. Men report satisfaction with using the internet in these three area, while women report dissatisfaction in these same areas (Rodgers Harris, 2003). Income level is also positively correlated with online shopping utilization, regardless of gender or age differences (Zhou, Dai, Zhang, 2007). Forsythe and Shi (2003) posit that high internet users tend to have high incomes. They note that perceptions of risk in internet shopping tend to decrease as income level increases. Internet users tend to have more disposable income, which is a reflection on the fact that they use the internet at all. Bucy (2003) reports that internet use is lowest among single mothers, those in lower socioeconomic groups, and older low-income groups. Education has been reported to have an effect on online activity, though these reports have been mixed, ranging from no effect to increased effect of education on online activity (Zhou, Dai, Zhang, 2007). Oftentimes college users simply have greater access to internet resources than other groups, suggesting that simple access as a fundamental resource may impact the utilization of online e-commerce (Seock Norton, 2007). Mahmood, Bagchi, and Ford (2004), however, suggest that education is not an influencing factor in internet use, while the factors of trust and economic conditions are. Convenience is often cited in existing studies as a factor involved in online shopping (Demangeot Broderick, 2007). Park and Kim (2003) discuss the depersonalization of the shopping experience by the utilization of e-commerce. They note that users report a high utility in ease of gathering information and finding good quality through well-designed retail web interfaces, suggesting an overall satisfaction with the e-commerce as found in the factor of convenience. This view is disputed by Jayawardhena, Wright, and Dennis (2007), who find that convenience is not a principally motivating factor for online shopping; indeed, they report that the chief factors that influence online shopping are prior purchase and gender. Trust is another factor involved in online shopping behaviour and speaks to the attributes of the consumer. Women tend to be less trusting of internet shopping than men, and younger people tend to be more trusting of utilizing the internet than older people (Dennis, Harris, Sandju, 2002). Connolly and Bannister (2008) state that the consumers trust in online shopping relates to the perceived integrity of the retailer, and the perceived competence of the retailer. Integrity is based upon a social perception while competence is based upon a technological perception. Internet retailers who seek to engender trust in their customers must incorporate the e-commerce store front with the latest information technology combined with the latest consumer marketing research. How people choose to embrace technology is also an important consideration in internet marketing to online shoppers (Forsythe Shi, 2003). This element can be explained through the examination of various technology acceptance theories. 2.3 Technology Acceptance Theories Technology acceptance theories attempt to explain how and why people come to adopt and use new technology. While there are several models that exist to explain this phenomenon, this paper will report on four theories to place online fashion shoppers attributes within, to help illuminate the factors involved in explaining the utilization of online shopping. The factors of technology that influence online shoppers in how they utilize the internet will be analyzed through the survey instrument of this research project. Online Shopping Acceptance Model Zhou, Dai, and Zhang (2007) constructed an Online Shopping Acceptance Model, illustrating elements of the internet (technology) and attributes of the consumer, to show a flow process model incorporating the elements of motivation, innovation, perception, shopping orientation, normative beliefs, attitude, online experience, shopping intention, and satisfaction, resulting in the event of online shopping. This is an inclusive model, and draws together the salient marketing elements regarding online shopping. In the Zhou et al. (2007) study, the resulting construction of the OSAM offer future researchers a holistic way to approach the area of online shopping. Theory of Reasoned Action The theory of reasoned actions (TRA) was presented by Fishbein and Ajzen in 1980. The origins of the theory stem from the study of social psychology. This field attempts to explain why attitude may affect behavior. TRA seeks to explain and even forecast behaviour based on the beliefs, attitudes and intentions of people. An individuals behavior is a result of these three factors, according to the theory of reasoned actions model. According to Fishbein and Ajzen (1980), behaviour is driven by behavioural intention. A persons intentions stem from the attitude toward the behavior. Moreover, the behavior in addition to the subjective norms, are also affected. During ones lifetime, various beliefs can impact attitudes. Descriptive beliefs can be formed by personal experience, or gained by obtaining outside information. More generally, the more likable an object/concept is, the better the feeling regarding it, and the more unlikeable an object is, the more negative the feeling is regarding it. As a consequence, an individual makes an assessment about the outcomes of various behaviors. Indeed, the person will evaluate the desirability of these outcomes and associate either a positive or negative association with it. The TRA model. This model reports behavior as a consequence of intention to behave, which is prompted by the attitude toward the subjective norm. (adapted from Ajzen and Fishbein, 1980). Technology Acceptance Model The theory of reasoned action  was modified  and adapted into a new model, called the technology acceptance model (TAM). Whereas the TRA model uses  behaviour  and subjective norm, the TAM uses measures of technology acceptance. These measures are how people perceive the ease of use of the technology, and how useful they  perceive  it to be. These two acceptance measures are meant to inform on the intention of people to actually use the new technology.   Ease of use refers to the amount of  effort  the  person  perceives must be spent in using the technology, and usefulness refers to the perception of the person that the technology will  benefit  them in some way (Vijayasarathy, 2004). The following diagram illustrates the TAM: http://www8.org/w8-papers/1b-multimedia/integrated/im_03.gifSource: Sodergard et al. (1999). Diffusion of Innovations Model Diffusion of Innovations theory is the process by which new ideas and technology spread throughout society. DOI tells us how fast and why new ideas spread in the manner in which they do (Rogers, 1962; 2003, pp. 5-7). The communication process through which a new idea or technology is accepted by consumers is the diffusion rubric.   The rate of diffusion is the speed by which that innovation spreads from one consumer to another.   Consumers, by definition, become so through learning about new products, trying them out, and either accepting them or not.   Previous methods of getting market knowledge to consumers was through utilizing the tools of mass marketing, which is essentially a catch-all process, and is both time-intensive and expensive.   Following mass marketing came the use of market strategies that identified and targeted heavy users of a product (Bass, 2004).   This has since evolved into consumer-specific, early adopter model of consumer behavior marketing. The D iffusion of Innovations theory tells us how this happens (Im, Mason, Houston, 2007, pp. 63-66). The following diagram provides a snapshot of DOI theory: http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/0f/Diffusionofideas.PNG/330px-Diffusionofideas.PNG As the diagram shows, an innovation has adopter categories. These categories are based upon a consumers innovativeness, or likelihood to use the innovation, which can be plotted on an S-curve (Rogers E. , 1962; 2003). Early adopters have more innovativeness than laggards or late adopters. As more consumers adopt the technology (shown in blue), the market share (shown in yellow) will reach market saturation; diffusion of innovation in consumer behaviors thus tells us that once an innovation spreads to a certain point in the consumer base, the market becomes saturated (Rogers, 1962; 2003) (Wikipedia, 2010). Four Key Elements of Diffusion of Innovations Theory DOI theory harnesses the concepts of innovation, communication, time, and social system (the target arena), to explain how and at what rate new ideas move through society and from person to person (or more appropriately, consumer to consumer) (Rogers, 1962; 2003). One can imagine the spread of information about a new idea; one person learns of it, tells another person, that person tells another person, and so on until the innovation idea is spread throughout society. In marketing, this concept works on consumer behavior at a micro-level; someone tries out a new product, tells another person about it, that person tries it and tells another person about it, and so on. Often we here about these ideas, as found in common phrases such as word of mouth is the best advertising, or put your money where your mouth is, and one good turn deserves another; these types market-related processes where the consumer is the biggest advertiser is one example of product/idea diffusion as found in DOI th eory (Solomon, 2004, p. 174). To reiterate, the key elements of Diffusion of Innovations Theory are: Innovation: the change, the idea, the product that is being launched. Communication: the methods through which the information about the idea are being disseminated. Time: the process by which a person (consumer) makes a decision about the innovation, and the speed by which the innovation is adopted by others. Social System: the cohesive arena of people engaged in seeking a common goal. (Rogers, 1962; 2003, pp. 17-24). Decision Making in Diffusion of Innovation Theory A consumer (this report is focusing on consumer behavior) is exposed to an innovation, whether it be a new product or service, and must make a decision about it; will they use it, like it, reject it? The process of decision making in innovations follows a three step model: Optional Innovation Decision: the decision about the innovation is made by a consumer who is somehow different from other consumers in the same social system. Collective Innovation Decision: the decision about the innovation is made by all the consumers within the particular social system. Authority-Innovation Decision: the decision about the innovation is made by one consumer, a leader, an authority figure or figures who are in a position of power. (Rogers, 1962; 2003, p. 372). Some types of decisions are dependent upon decisions made about other innovations. For example, a housewife will not be able to trial a new cleaning product until her local store makes the decision to stock the product. That is called a contingent decision innovation (Persichitte, Tharpe, Caffarella, 1999). Adoption Process in Innovation Decision Making Within DOI theory, there is a decision making process as generally outlined above, as well as a finer decision making process consisting of five stages, known as the Adoption process. The following model details the Adoption process: http://www.fidis.net/typo3temp/tx_rlmpofficelib_8cb7cf257e.png (Royer, 2010). Knowledge: the consumer does not have enough information to make a decision, and may not yet be inspired to seek the information. Persuasion: the consumer is actively engaged in seeking information about an innovation. Decision: the consumer is weighing the pros and cons of the innovation, and may have trouble making a decision. Implementation: the consumer is trialing the innovation, and determining its usefulness. Confirmation: the consumer is finalizing their decision about the innovation. (Rogers, 1962; 2003, p. 83). This is a highly dynamic process, and while the consumer is moved through the stages, this process may rely as much on psychological inputs and variances as it does on hard empirical facts (Kleijnena, Leeb, Wetzels, 2009). Factors Affecting Adoption of Innovations The speed at which an innovation is accepted/adopted depends upon the category of the adopter. A consumer can be a respected person and thus with a vast social network to draw upon, the adopter(s) can be a group of consumers who will heavily use the innovation, or the adopter can be one of the early variety who is influenced by positive messages about the innovation. Through influencing the adoption process, consumer behavior can be directed toward moving the innovations acceptance toward a place on the DOI curve known as critical mass, where the innovations use and adoption are self-sustaining (Rogers E. , 2004). Innovations have inherent characteristics that act upon a consumers choice of adoption or rejection.   First the innovation has some type of relative advantage over its predecessors; second is that the innovation has the quality of compatibility to be utilized in the consumers life; the innovation must be sufficiently complex but not too complex for the consumer to use; the innovation must be able to be trialed with relative ease; and finally the innovation that has high visibility to others is more likely to be adopted by peer consumers (Tornatsky Klein, 1982, pp. 28-30).   Applicable to online fashion shopping, one can meet the conceptual requirements of innovations, in that online shopping is more convenient than visiting brick and mortar stores, online fashion shopping for those that prefer to do their fashion shopping over the internet is highly compatible with the consumers preferences, online shopping for the skilled computer user is very ease to use, and the prevalence a nd spread of e-commerce makes online fashion shopping an attractive venue for the savvy fashion shopping population who use computers. Consequences of Decisions When a consumer makes a decision, there will be some type of consequence or outcome (Burt, 1987). Three categories characterize the nature of these consequences: Desirable vs. Undesirable Direct vs. Indirect Anticipated vs. Unanticipated (Hubner, 1996) (Rogers E. , 1962; 2003). A consumers choice to use one product over another may have undesirable, indirect, and unanticipated consequences, such as the choice to buy fashion apparel online rather than at the locally based brick and mortar store. Where the brick and mortar store supports the local economy in which it exists, providing jobs and taxes, the internet based retailer may be not locally based, thus taking away monies from the local shops that may suffer economically. 2.4 Summary of the Literature The literature thus presented has focused on the concepts of fashion and gender, attributes of online consumers, and technology acceptance models. While e-commerce is a product of the internet age, the field of research regarding online fashion shopping behavior and attributes of online fashion shoppers clearly leaves room for discovery. At best, the antecedents in the research literature offer a way to forward in the research through exploring the new face of consumerism in the age of technology. The idea that is emerging in research into online shopping is that new models are coming to the forefront which offers a holistic picture of the factors that influence the final outcome of product/service purchase. On one hand there is the consumer, and on the other hand there is technology. In between the two facets are many influencing factors, which through the survey questionnaire designed for this research, some of those issues will be examined. CHAPTER 3: Research Strategy Conceptualization of the Issue The purpose of this chapter is to define the methodology used to evaluate issues associated with online fashion shoppers. Given the growing prevalence of e-commerce and the spread of available internet to populations across the world, the nature of the consumer as a field of study is of high relevance. The attributes and characteristics of the consumer may change with time, place, and influencing social climates. While various technology acceptance models exist to explain how people come to adopt/accept the use of technology, the particular factors within th

The Fictional Character Cleopatra Essays -- Cleopatra Shakespeare Play

The Fictional Character Cleopatra The fictional character of Cleopatra has captured the imaginations of people the world over. Helen of Troy was said to have had ‘the face that launched a thousand ships.’ Cleopatra was not simply a beautiful and passive face, but indeed commanded navies as well as the heart of the powerful Mark Antony. Looking at these two facts from the play one may see the political brilliance in her affections, but also the dichotomy. Which one of her loves is true, and which is of an illusory nature? There is a constant battle between her passion towards the mighty Roman and her yearning for sovereignty and the glory of Egypt on her own terms. This question certainly embroils the mind of Mark Antony, at least. All of this however, only adds to her enigmatic depth of character and mystique. Cleopatra, despite being cunning and even manipulative can be defined as one of literature’s great lovers. She was a lover of men and a lover of her country. A figure more driven in these categories would be hard to find. Yet parallels can be drawn with Queen Elizabeth I of England. Both were ardent, patriotic leaders descended from powerful rulers (in the case of Elizabeth, Henry VIII, and in Cleopatra’s instance the Ptolemeic dynasty). Wielding great authority themselves, Cleopatra also used her charms as a courtesan to bend the wills of her political peers. Elizabeth used her unmarried status to manage numerous suitors to her political advantage. Their intelligence is another common trait. â€Å"Elizabeth’s linguistic ability is well attested, not only by her tutor Ascham, but by visitors to the English court who speak of precisely this facility in replying to ambassadors either i... ...e. This simple carpenter preached transcendence and many believe he save the world by the surrender of his life. Cleopatra found release through surrendering as well. She broke the conflicting chains of passion, governance, and the other illusions of reality by surrendering her life. Bibliography Boyce, Charles. Shakespeare A to Z. Roundtable Press: New York, 1990 Chauveau, Michel. Egypt in the Age of Cleopatra. Cornell University Press: Ithaca and London, 1997 Falconer, Colin. When We Were Gods. Crown Publishers: New York, 2000 Greenblatt, Steven. ‘Antony and Cleopatra’. The Norton Shakespeare Tragedies. W.W. Norton & Company: New York, London, 1997 Neely, Carol Thomas. Broken Nuptials in Shakepeare’s Plays. University of Illinois Press: Urbana and Chicago, 1993 Smith, Marion Bodwell. Dualities in Shakespeare. University of Toronto Press, 1966

Stephen Cranes The Open Boat and Jack Londons To Build A Fire Essay

Stephen Crane's The Open Boat and Jack London's To Build A Fire Stephen Crane’s short story, â€Å"The Open Boat† speaks directly to Jack London’s own story, â€Å"To Build A Fire† in their applications of naturalism and views on humanity. Both writers are pessimistic in their views of humanity and are acutely aware of the natural world. The representations of their characters show humans who believe that they are strong and can ably survive, but these characters many times overestimate themselves which can lead to an understanding of their own mortality as they face down death. In â€Å"To Build A Fire†, the main conflict throughout is man versus nature although it would be inaccurate to say that nature goes out of its way to assault the man. The fact of the matter is, nature would be just as cold without the man's presence regardless of him being there .The environment as a whole is completely indifferent to the man, as it frequently is in naturalist literature. The bitter environment does not aid him in any way, and it will not notice if he perishes. In the same way, the dog does not care about the man, only about itself. Ironically enough though, as the man was dying he was getting upset toward the dog because of its natural warmth, the instincts that it had, and its survival skills and those were the elements that the man lacked for survival. It is ironic that the man had to die in order to find out that man's fragile body cannot survive in nature's harsh elements, regardless of a human’s natural over-confidence and psychological strength. The protagonist of the story, who is purposely not given a name, as the idea that the environment will determine his fate rather than his free will. The Man is forced to accept that he is not invinc... ...nd they are simply along for the ride. Stephen Crane’s â€Å"The Open Boat† and â€Å"To Build a Fire† by Jack London are both naturalistic tales that portray the universe as a somewhat indifferent being that could not care less for the any of the men in either story. The irony is biting, yet completely subverts the ideals and values that humanity generally holds of being superior and invincible in the world. Works Cited Gurian, Jay. "The Romantic Necessity in Literary Naturalism: Jack London." American Literature: 112-20. Print. London, Jack. "To Build a Fire, by Jack London." The World of Jack London 2012 ®. Web. 02 May 2012. . Pizer, Donald. "Jack London's "To Build a Fire": How Not to Read Naturalist Fiction." Philosophy and Literature 34.1 (2010): 218-27. Project Muse. Web. 1 May 2012. .

The Great Gatsby :: English Literature

The Great Gatsby The capacity to dream is a natural characteristic possessed by all mankind. Americans living in a country based on the philosophy of pursuing great American dreams go about pursuing their own goals in many ways. Ironically the American dream itself is the ultimate illusion that can never satisfy those who pursue it. The American dream was only possible when it was a potential. Nick in Fitzgerald’s, The Great Gatsby, realized this as he imagines a past when the Dutch first laid their eyes on the vast wilderness of the uninhabited United States. Gatsby’s ideals in this novel are the ideals of all Americans. Gatsby and Americans search for a dream and yet nobody truly understands what it is they are really in search of. People go about fulfilling these dreams by using cheap reality and in the end it does not measure up to the size of the dream itself; the dreamer is bound to be disappointed with every accomplishment of the dream. At the conclusion of Fitzgerald’s book, The Great Gatsby, the main character Gatsby has recently died and Nick stands facing the front door of Gatsby’s mansion. From this moment, Nick looks at Gatsby’s house for a last time. He sees a swear word on the wall, and like Holden in the book, The Catcher in the Rye, he too crosses the word out; trying to preserve the innocence. Nick wants to keep Gatsby’s dream pure even though it is already lost. Later on while Nick is all alone, everything begins to melt away. He starts to picture how it looked a hundred years ago when the Dutch sailors first reached a new world. Nick’s world becomes the world of idealism, where the physical world doesn’t matter; the great house of Gatsby begins to melt away and finally disappear in Nick’s mind for that moment. Nick sees that, â€Å"†¦for a transitory enchanted moment man must have held his breath in the presence of this continent, compelled into an aesthetic contemplation he neither understood nor desired, face to face for the last time in history with something commensurate to his capacity for wonder,† (pg 189). For that one time the Dutch merchants saw the idea of property in a different way. The Dutch saw the wilderness and trees not as wood- cutters or property owners but as poets, like presented in Emerson’s, â€Å"Nature.† Wood- cutters own the timber physically, but, â€Å"there is a property in the horizon which no man has but he whose eye can integrate all the parts, that is, the poet,†(Nature). The Dutch saw the beauty of the land and trees and

Poverty and a Lack of Education are Fueling Juvenile Crime Essay

In the early 1960’s, the epidemic of juvenile crime began to take shape. The problem of juvenile crime is becoming an increasingly pressing matter in America. Anyone who watches the news on television or reads the newspapers is well aware of the urgency and intensity of America’s juvenile crime problem. Effectively establishing the causes of juvenile crime may help to deter it in the future. A proper solution cannot be executed until the root causes and reasons are exposed. There are undoubtedly many factors contributing to juvenile crime, but the focus should be on those which contribute the most. The two factors which come most readily to mind are the extremes of poverty and poor education. Juveniles from poor communities are not even interested in becoming educated because there are not any decent paying jobs for them anyway. By not going to school, these juveniles are not are not developing the proper mental framework with which they can make good choices in life. The growing numbers of poor communities does not help the situation. It is old news that crime follows poverty. Americans should be concerned that juvenile crime is being fueled by a lack of education and poverty. Poverty has three basic definitions which are absolute poverty, relative poverty and exclusionary poverty. An absence of the most basic resources such as food, shelter, and clothing constitutes absolute poverty. Relative poverty refers to those people who are poor when compared to the wealthier members of the society. Exclusionary poverty includes people without access to healthcare, proper nutrition, transportation, and opportunities for participating in community life. The references to poverty in this argument include individuals from all three categories (Ryerse). The biggest differences between the upper-class and lower-class communities is the quality of education the youths receive and economic security. In upper-class communities juvenile crime exists, but it is far less common and severe than in the impoverished communities. Neighborhoods with a high concentration of poverty are at a much higher risk of having problems such  as single-parent families, ineffective parenting, violent schools, high dropout rates, substance abuse, and high unemployment rates (Delbert, 86). Youths growing up in such an environment are experiencing violence daily and are destined to resort to violence themselves. Poor communities have a tendency to be very unstable because of economic insecurity. Economic insecurity is caused by chronic unemployment. This is especially a problem in the inner-cities where, without jobs, people live impoverished and overcrowded lives (Parcels, 43). Since they are not able to sell their labor, they resort to illegitimate markets such as drugs and prostitution (Parcels, 43). The illegitimate businesses emerge because the communities cannot effectively resist them, and they provide some social organization and economy (Elliot, 86). Unemployment is not the source of frustration and desperation that eventually leads to violence. A lack of income is, because it forces people into situations that they would choose not to be in. Robbery, prostitution, and drug dealing yield practical and immediate results. These industries naturally organize into street gangs which are known for their violent behavior. If these people were properly educated and lived in an economically secure environment, then there would not be any reasons for them to engage in crime. Unfortunately, they are currently engaged in enterprises which are dangerous and extremely violent. These enterprises are attractive to the juveniles who are looking for status and a steady income. They are not interested in education or legitimate employment It does not make any sense for a juvenile in a poor community to have much interest in becoming educated in the first place. They know that an education will not help their situation in the long run. The likeliness that a high school diploma will land them a good job is almost nonexistent, and college is completely out of the question without a substantial amount of money. Therefore, if the juvenile wishes to make something of himself he will naturally find means available to him. By becoming a low level drug dealer  he can make a considerable amount of money in a relatively small amount of time. It becomes even more profitable to be a drug dealer in a gang because of the protection a gang can offer. The money, on top of the prestige and respect drug dealers have in poor communities, makes the experience quite rewarding. This is why younger individuals are attracted to the criminal lifestyle. In the criminal sub-culture violence is not only condoned but encouraged. The methods and details involved are often learned from a parent or older sibling. Because the juveniles parents are poor and undereducated, they are more likely to be engaged in criminal and deviant activity themselves. The children grow up watching their parents struggle to survive and live a criminal lifestyle. The adults, frustrated by their hopeless situation, frequently turn to drugs and alcohol which affects how they deal with their children. The frustration and anger that a juvenile experiences in such a family can easily pour over into other areas of their social life in the form of violence. The limited availability of resources in poor neighborhoods creates both social isolation and economic stress on families. Parents who have limited problem solving skills, poor impulse control, and a history of violent behavior during adolescence are those at a high risk of child abuse. Frequently, they are young, low-income, single parent, minority women with four or more children in the household. If the fathers are present, they tend to have only a limited education and be part-time employed. Because they have few alternatives and limited social support, they do not have anyone who might provide social controls on their behavior and non-violent alternatives for managing their children (Elliot, 86). Neither the government, nor any other outside entity seems willing to provide much needed solutions. This is really no surprise considering the current power structure in the United States, which includes the politicians and the elite class, have an interest in keeping the lower classes confused, disorganized, and helpless. This is because of the fear that if the poor class organizes and unites the poor will at once recognize the current power  structure is the source of their oppression. Capitalism, by definition, requires an abundance of labor which is it’s foundation. Noam Chomsky, professor at MIT, suggested that America’s two-tiered society with enormous wealth and privilege amidst poverty and suffering was created and sustained with bipartisan agreement. There are not enough jobs in America, because capitalism does not and never did provide full employment (Parcels 45). Eric Parcels, writer of the New Unionist, believes that â€Å"capitalism likes to keep a reserve army of unemployed people to help force wages down (44). The widening gap between the rich and the poor and the hopelessness it creates are two reasons which make the poor angry and frustrated (Hall 124). The young people see drugs, gangs, and anti-social behavior as a way to get back at the system (Hall ). Gus Hall, chair of Communist Party USA, claims â€Å"whenever there is severe unemployment and poverty, there is crime, drugs, and violence (125).† Some people argue that not all poor people are violent and many grow up in poor areas and do not become criminals. This is true, but the point is that growing up in a poor neighborhood increases the likeliness criminal activity will emerge. Others point out that white- collar crime is rampant, but these crimes are not as common or as severe as those committed by the gangs and other violent youth. There are also the questions of overcrowding and media violence. These factors undoubtedly contribute to crime, but they do not have as much influence as poverty coupled with poor education. When trying to solve the problem of juvenile crime most people are quick to suggest increasing law enforcement and creating harsher prison sentences. These solutions will help to a certain extent, but they are treating the effects of juvenile crime instead of the causes. Some people are proposing that America test Buckminister Fuller’s idea of the negative income tax. This is the idea that a line be drawn somewhere above the poverty line and no one can receive less. The most remarkable aspect of this idea is that it would cost less than the current bureaucratic welfare system. It’s opponents argue that it would increase inflation, but this is not necessarily true if the Gross Nation Product was not exceeded. Educating and giving money to the poor would not solve America’s crime and violence problems overnight. A more reasonable time frame would be several generations. There is also the idea of investing in a massive adult education program. This might be effective in breaking the cycle in which juveniles are learning bad habits and criminal behavior from their parents. Though it may not be the most effective solution, it does seem to be the most civilized. America’s juvenile crime problem is not going to fix itself. Realizing that juveniles who grow up uneducated and poverty stricken are prone to engage in crime may lead to the discovery of a viable solution that can be agreed upon. Until then, the problem still lingers and threatens to intensify. By not addressing the situation in a healthy and rational manner, the juveniles are destined to become even more angry and frustrated at the hopelessness of their situation. It is now clear how poverty and a lack of education are linked to juvenile crime. Juvenile crime will continue to exist as long as the public and the government chooses to ignore it’s relationship to economy and education. It was Gus Hall who said, â€Å"crime, like joblessness, is a national disease. When people-any people-lose hope, when poverty and despair is the only view of the future, crime, drugs, and violence are the results (125).† Works Cited Chomsky, Noam. Interview with David Finkel. Chomsky on Capitalism. 1991. 27 Feb. 2003 Elliot, Delbert. â€Å"Environmental Factors Contribute to Juvenile Crime and Violence.† Juvenile Crime: Opposing Viewpoints. Ed. A.E. Sadler. San Diego: Greenhaven, 1997. 83-94. Hall, Gus. â€Å"Capitalism Causes Violence.† Violence: Opposing Viewpoints. Ed. Scott Barbour. San Diego: Greenhaven, 1996. 120-125. Parcels, Erik. â€Å"Capitalism Fosters Gang Behavior.† Gangs: Opposing Viewpoints. Ed. Charles Cozic. San Diego: Greenhaven, 1996. 41-45. Ryerse, C. Thursday’s child. Child poverty in Canada: A review of the effects of poverty on children. Ottawa: National Youth Care Network, 1990.

Practical Exam – Bio 125 Lab

Lab Due November 14, 2012 Practical Exam 1. a. The symbionts (Paramecium) of the termite belong to the kingdom Protista b. Paramecium living in the intestines of termites breaks down the cellulose walls of wood fibers releasing proteins that are absorbed by the termites’ digestive system. Paramecium benefit by having an environment to thrive and they ingest the wood fibers for their own nutrition as well. 2. c. An important ecological effect of diatoms is that when they die they hold onto CO2 trapped inside their silicon skeleton, carrying it to the ocean floor instead of being released into the atmosphere. . Autotrophic 3. Two characteristics that helped identify the euglena were: e. Two flagellas. f. Eyespot. 4. g. The bacteria in the picture labeled #4 is rod-shaped. h. Cyanobacteria are important producers of Nitrogen in marine environments. 5. i. Lactobacillus found in saliva produced lactic acid to cause Snyder’s medium to change color. j. The tube turned yellow a fter it was exposed to saliva. 6. k. Red algae have phycobilin pigments (phycoerythrin and phycocyanin) that mask the color of the chlorophylls.Brown algae have xanthophyll pigments that mask the green color of the chlorophyll. Green algae have cholorphylls a and b that give a bright green color. l. All algae have chlorophyll. 7. m. The hyphae of Rhizopus are coenocytic. n. Gametangia (hyphae fuse), plasmogomy occurs, karyogamy occurs forming Zygosporangium, sporangium form and haploid spores are released to germinate and form hyphae. 8. o. The function of gills in basidiomyctes is to produce spores. p. Basidiomycetes contain crosswalls (they are septate). 9. q. Yeast produces CO2, which makes dough rise. .Yeast ferment alcohol in brewing. 10. s. In mosses, the leafy green structure is the gametophyte. t. Gametophytes are haploid. 11. u. The plant pictured and labeled number 11 has vascular tissue. v. Sori are the sporangia structures found on the undersides of the fronds. 12. w. Th e cone labeled #12 is a female cone. x. The needle-like leaves of gymnosperms reduce the surface area, and thick cuticle and sunken stomata minimize water loss. 13. y. Body plan (c) shown on blackboard labeled #13 represents an acelomate. z. Hydras and jellies exhibit radial symmetry. 4. {. Eyespots in flatworms like planaria detect light and use them to move away from light sources. |. The concentration of sense organs at the anterior of this organism is cephalization. 15. }. Annelids such as the Earthworm, which was dissected in lab, have closed circulatory systems. ~. The digestive tract is complete because the digestive tract runs from mouth to anus.16. . The clitellum of the Earthworm is used in sexual reproduction. . Coelom in Earthworms aid in locomotion and function as a hydrostatic skeleton. 17. The function of hemolymph in an organism such as the Grasshopper is to transport nutrients. . Insects have 3 pairs of walking legs. 18. . Crayfish have an open circulatory system. . Male crayfish are generally bigger than females and have bigger claws. Also in male crayfish the two most anterior swimmerets are enlarged and hardened. 19. . The Perch is a vertebrate. . The lateral line organ is used to sense vibrations and pressure differences in water. 20. . The swim bladder in the Perch is used to maintain buoyancy. . Caudal fin is primarily responsible for propelling the fish forward. 1. . The front position of the mouth in the Perch is advantageous because it allows the Perch to eat and take in water as it swims forward. . No, most fish utilize external fertilization to sexually reproduce.22. . Rat belongs to class Mammalia. . Possess hair made of keratin. 23. . Yes, cephalization is apparent in the rat. . Cephalization is the concentration of sense organs at the anterior of an organism. 24. . Rat has a closed circulatory system. . Most rats utilize internal fertilization during sexual reproduction. 25. In plants the apical meristem can be found at the: . R oot tips Shoot tips 26. . The experiment of a Carnation placed into a beaker full of water and red food coloring demonstrated cohesion, adhesion and capillary action (transpiration) of water through the stem. . Xylem is the vascular tissue mainly involved in this process.27. . The leaves on blackboard labeled #27 are compound. . The leaves are from a dicot because they are arranged in five’s. 28. . The picture on blackboard labeled #29 is a monocot leaf. . The name of the cell at the end of the arrow is a guard cell. 29. . The picture on blackboard labeled #29 is the stem of a dicot. The vascular bundles are arranged in a ring in the cross-section of the stem. 30. . The secondary xylem growth rings of the woody stem can be counted to determine the age of a tree. . In the picture on blackboard labeled #30, the function of the structure at the end of the arrow is active xylem. This allows for water transport in the tree. Extra Credit 31. Two structural hallmarks of organisms cl assified mollusks are: muscular foot and mantle. 32. . Rhotifer is the smallest animal that has tissues and organs/organs systems. . The majority of these organisms reproduce by parthenogenesis.

High Fructose Corn Syrup

High-fructose corn syrup is an artificial sweetener generally used in the United States. It is so broadly used because it is both cost-effectively favorable and it helps to preserve food for extended periods of time. Some say that though it is favorable, it has ill effects. High Fructose Corn Syrup According to a 2008 USA Today Article, â€Å"high-fructose corn syrup makes up about 50% of the sweeteners used in the USA but worldwide it's only about 10%†. Every day we eat. We eat our home cooked meals or our fast food rarely thinking about what’s going into our bodies.Often times one of the first ingredients listed on a can of soda or canned fruit is some form of HFCS or high fructose corn syrup. This ingredient, while widely known, is a secret additive to many products in our grocery stores. High Fructose Corn Syrup is one of the cheapest to make but yet it is the hardest for the body to rid of. Since its introduction to food products nearly forty years ago, it has slow ly been added to most foods you feel your family. We as consumers may not pay attention to what goes into our bodies but more and more scientists are.The studies they are conducting mainly consist of trying to find links between HFCS and several major health problems; such as diabetes and obesity. Although key links have not been defined, they have managed to prove what amounts that can be consumed before harm can be determined. Even though these findings have been confirmed and made public, the FDA still considers HFCS to be safe for consumption. The FDA rule says that as long as a product has no chemicals added it cannot be labeled an â€Å"artificial ingredient†. The reason behind this is because HFCS are made from corn, it is not considered an artificial ingredient.The origin of High Fructose Corn Syrup takes its root in the mid 1970’s. A series of sugar tariffs and quotas were imposed in the United States. These restrictions had significantly increased the cost of imported sugar causing domestic producers to seek cheaper avenues. High-fructose corn syrup became a more economical substitue because the price of corn is kept low through government subsidies paid to its growers. As the United States use of high fructose corn syrup increased, sugar was replaced in most foods and beverages. There is USDA data from 2009 that shows the per capita use of high fructose corn syrup in the U.S. â€Å"was matched with an almost equal decline, on a one-to-one basis, in the per capita use of sugar. † (Sweet Surprize) So why is there mass campaign to revert back to sugar cane or beet sugar based sweetners? Americans have become more health conscious in the last forty years. Our fear of high-fructose corn syrup seems to have been derived from some very real concerns over the effects of its principal component, fructose. The coinsidence between the introduction of HFCS and the rise of obesity related diseases can no longer be ignored.Diabetes is a disea se with no cure that is running rampet through the country and heart failure remains a syndrome on high. Fructose, like glucose are basic sugars. Though your body processes basic sugars the same way, the results seem to be different. (Engber, 09) When ingesting glucose, the body is known to stimulate the release of body chemicals that regulate your food consumption. Fructose, on the other hand, does very little to suppress your appetite, and it seems to form new fat cells while maintaining the old.According to a recent research project conducted at Princeton University high-fructose corn syrup does indeed prompt a human to considerably gain weight. â€Å"Rats with access to high-fructose corn syrup gained significantly more weight than those with access to table sugar, even when their overall caloric intake was the same. † (Parker, 10)   In addition to causing significant weight gain in lab animals, long-term consumption of high-fructose corn syrup was also evaluated. The s ame research team found that HFCS led to abnormal increases in body fat. These increases seemed to be found in the abdomen area.Body fat was not the only increases found. It was also discovered that HFCS caused a rise in blood fats called triglycerides. The Corn Refiners Association (CRA) has spent $30 million to create a multimedia campaign to scream out to the masses that HFCS is just like sugar. (Engber, 09) The Princeton study, is not proving them wrong but are providing the details that show that while they are basic sugars, not all basic surgars are created equal. First, sucrose is composed of two simple sugars equally while fructose is not. The ratio in sucrose is 50:50 while fructose is 55:42. Parker, 10) The extra 3% is made up of saccharides, larger sugar molecules. Secondly, Princeton researchers zeroed in on the process in which makes sucrose and HFCS is different.The results showed that the molecues that make HFCS are unbound and free floating. In sucrose the fructose a nd sucrose molecues are bound to each other causing an extra metabolical process in order to be utilized for energy. This posed a quandary for the researchers. The rats consumed the same items, same caloric intake, yet those who consumed HFCS gained weight while those who did not, had not gained weight. Parker, 10) A little over a year earlier, the Washington Post published a study confirmed by both Enviornmental Science and Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy that there are traces of mercury in HFCS. â€Å"Almost half of tested samples of commercial high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) contained mercury. † [ (Washington Post, 09) ] This was result found in many products where HFCS is either the first or second ingredient listed on the label. While the article quote that nearly children and teenagers diet consists of nearly 80% HFCS, they remind readers that mercury at any level is toxic.The CRA responded that the information presented was based on old information and that the industry adapted non-mercury agents and that â€Å"these mercury-free re-agents perform important functions, including adjusting pH balances. † [ (Washington Post, 09) ] Regardless, we as well as our children are or have consumed an ingredient that has toxic traces. Over a lifetime, imagine what that can do to the human body. The CRA has been very careful when attacking the fear that HFCS is envoking. According to their website, they maintain the stance that HFCS are all natural.The page opens up with their statement that HFCS â€Å"†¦are natural and meet the Food and Drug Administration’s policy for use of the term â€Å"natural. † (CRA, 09) They also side step the specifics of the HFCS make up claiming that HFCS simply is â€Å"like table sugar, is composed of fructose and glucose† but that it is also â€Å"found in many other naturally-occurring foods†. In the end they seem to quietly divert blame to the FDA by stating the FDA â€Å"h as not established a formal definition of the term â€Å"natural† for food ingredients† but that they qualify for natural under the current definition.This is still despite the Washington Post article confirming that the FDA has the mercury information. While many of these studies continue to support the Princeton research, the CRA will continue to spend countless amounts of money to combat the findings. Though in the last decade this issue has become more promient, it will probably continue for years to come. In the meantime, obesity related diseases continue to rise. The cure is just out of reach but it seems that we can indivually take a stand. With many products using HFCS for various amount of sweetning, we can limit our in take.Limiting our in take is as simple as reading the labels of the food and drink you consume. Limit your fast food intake as well. While this seems to be old fashion or time consuming to some, we need to revert back to the days where meals whe re made from scratch. Cut up fresh vegetables and fruits and limit processed foods. Canned foods, frozen foods and even the juice we drink is laden with some form of HFCS. If we as consumers take responsibility for our own food in take, we may be able to reverse the (potential and known) effects of the ingredient in our bodies.As mentioned earlier, 80% of what children consume has some form of HFCS. With the increase in obesity (both child and adult) as well as other syndromes like ADD and Autism, can we assume that our food is to blame? Thinking about the age old idiom of â€Å"we are what we eat†, are we making our bodies and later our creating our children bodies to fall victim to these now chronic disorders? We have always heard to limit our sugar intake to retard the hyperactive tendencies. With that assumption the use of basic sugars have always sent off alarms when it comes to those with hyperactivity disorders.The association between sugar and hyperactivity disorders began by a Harvard researcher in the the 1960’s. He claimed his findings showed that certain food colorings and sugars caused ADHD in children. (Ayoob) Though it has been said that this researchers findings could not be reproduced, the statement has stuck for years. Many mothers refuse to give their children sugar for fear of over stimulation. They were right, to an extent. As many know, sugar does produce spurts of energy as it is being digested. Couple that with a child and you have one bouncy human being.With each person metabolizing sugar a bit differently, mistakes or a misdiagnosis can easily be made. It would be easy to initially mistaken a sugar high child for one with with ADD or any other related syndrome. An unknowing parent, may not know how much sugar the child is consuming and mistakenly percieves this as a â€Å"problem child† with a hyperactive disorder. The parent in turn speaks with a doctor, discusses all the symptoms and after a series of tests, the truth comes to light. I have a child that has a level of autism and ADHD.It was suggested to me, much like Dr. Anne Kelly suggests, that eliminating chemicals from their diets can help limit ADHD triggers. Dr. Kelly also shares how children with these disorders are more sensitive to toxins found in food. Toxins like the previously mentioned mercury found in HFCS. [ (Howard, 10) ] I have children, I have family members and friends affected by obesity and its consequences. I am not within my BMI, and neither are most people I know but what this assignment has taught me is that we shouldn’t take for granted what we consume.For a period of time while researching and writing this paper, I thought what it would entail to grow my own garden. While I am sure that there will be a lot of trial and error, I just might be able to do something small at least. Meanwhile, I will pratice what I preach and pay attention to labels as I shop for groceries. Sadly, time management is an issue as I juggle both my children and their schooling with my own. We are a busy family just like many others. An effort must and will be made to pay attention to the items I purchase. Normal, quick and easy items I would purchase would now be turned into treats if even that.As I sit here and contemplate, I can see where an undertaking of this nature would be life altering in a sense. How I allocate my time, my childrens time besides what we consume is all under review. My mind wonders to what kitchen appliances and utenzils do I have to upkeep this adjustment, what do I have to buy or learn how to do myself. I was raised in a busy working family where many of my own meals were microwaved. Though I try hard now to not make that a normal occurance for my children, it happens more often than I would care to admit.Though the research and arguments will continue for years to come, I will take action today. I will make strides for my family and friends to choose healthier alternatives and maybe even find joy in cooking. Bring cooking back to what it once was, a family event. Where family can come together and catch up, talk and reconnect. Who knew that research could lead to life adjustements.Works CitedAyoob, K. -T. (n. d. ). High Fructose Corn Syrup and ADD/ADHD in Children: Is There a Link or Is It a Myth? Retrieved 12 08, 10, from Sweet Surprize: http://www. sweetsurprise. com/hfcs-and-your-family/your-childs-diet/hfcs-adhd  CRA. (09, 12).CORN SWEETENERS ARE NATURAL. Retrieved 12 08, 10, from Corn Refiners of America: http://www. corn. org/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/CornSweetenerNatural. pdf Engber, D. (09, 04 28).The decline and fall of high-fructose corn syrup. Retrieved 12 08, 10, from Slate Magazine: http://www. slate. com/id/2216796 Howard, C. (10, 02 26).Toxins in our food may play a role in neurobehavioral problems. Retrieved 12 08, 10, from Peoria Journal Star Online: http://www. pjstar. com/features/x2112775064/Toxins-in-our-food-may-play-a-role-in-neurobeh avioral-problems Parker, H. (10, 03 22).A sweet problem: Princeton researchers find that high-fructose corn syrup prompts considerably more weight gain. Retrieved 12 08, 10, from Princeton Univeristy News Online: http://www. princeton. edu/main/news/archive/S26/91/22K07/ Sweet Surprize. (n. d. ).Fructose Availability. Retrieved 12 08, 10, from Sweet Surprize: http://www. sweetsurprise. com/myths-and-facts/faqs-high-fructose-corn-syrup/fructose Washington Post. (09, 01 29).Study Finds High-Fructose Corn Syrup Contains Mercury. Retrieved 12 08, 10, from Washington Post Online: http://www. washingtonpost. com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/01/26/AR2009012601831. html High Fructose Corn Syrup High Fructose Corn Syrup: Friend or Enemy We eat every day, rarely thinking about what’s going into our bodies. Take soda, for example, when was the last time you read the label before taking a sip? For me, it is never. One of the first ingredients listed on the can is HFCS or high fructose corn syrup. This ingredient is a secret additive to many products in today's market. High Fructose Corn Syrup is one of the cheapest to make and hardest to get rid of in the body. Since its introduction to food products in the 70's it has slowly been added to most foods, even ketchup. More and more scientists are trying to find links between HFCS and several major health problems; such as diabetes and obesity. Although a major link has not been definitely determined to date, minor links have been proven such as such as the amounts that can be consumed before harm can be determined. Even though some minor associations have been made the FDA still considers HFCS to be safe for consumption. The reason for this is because HFCS is not considered an artificial ingredient. The rule considered is as long as a product has no signs of a chemical added it cannot be labeled an â€Å"artificial ingredient†. In researching the origin of High Fructose Corn Syrup I found out that mercury was found in the product. Even with this new information, the FDA still allows this product to be used in 94% of the foods we consume every day. Why would you need to put HFCS in baby formula? In places like England and France they have practically banned HFCS and made it difficult to use in the entire country. The European Union has a deal with the Sugar Refiners to only use natural cane and beet sugars. High Fructose or Syrup as you now knows are any almost everything we eat and drink. But what you don't know is what it is really doing inside your body. High Fructose Corn Syrup started being mass produced in 1982. It was around that time that researchers noticed an increase in children developing type II diabetes. Obesity around the country has soared. Type 2 diabetes is related to the body's inability to effectively use the insulin that is produced by the pancreas. This is thought to be directly related to weight. It has been proven that HFCS also cause heart problems. This is also thought to be weight related. Despite all the recent attempts to try and prove HFCS unhealthy effects, the Corn Refiners Association has come out with campaigns in High Fructose Corn Syrup's defense. They state the HFCS are not bad and are ok when eaten in moderation. There is no such thing as moderation when it is found in 94 % of the food. While more cons can be found than pros for HFCS; the Corn RefinersAssociation stands behind their product. In fact all the pros I found came from the CRA. The only truth I found was that it is cheaper to produce. Their website has no real information; and in fact called what many to believe to be truths myths. Although the Corn Refiners Association proved to be pointless my endless goggle search did take me too many blogs and organizations which I found to be very informative. Even though the bloggers were only expressing their opinion, many found HFCS to be repulsive. Many of the organizations say they are 20 xs bad for your health. The most informative was HighFructoseCornSyrup. com they are a group of bloggers that I agree with. Each of their articles deal with HFCS in the media and how it is affecting us as a society. After reading all this information and making my way through my research, I began to question what I was eating. Is this slurpee chockfull of HFCS? Of course, just look at how sweet it is. Is my burger only good because that ketchup it’s covered with is full of â€Å"sugar†, I mean high fructose corn syrup? Maybe I'm just losing it because I didn't want to believe what I had been hearing for years was true. Is my weight gain because I eat too much or is it the Additive that is in so many of the foods I eat that caused the weight gain in the first place? Hmm! Although it has been on the market for about 35 years most thought their weight gain was cased only by a lack of exercise. With obesity at epidemic proportions many are starting to question is it something in the food too? High Fructose Corn Syrup High Fructose Corn Syrup: Friend or Enemy We eat every day, rarely thinking about what’s going into our bodies. Take soda, for example, when was the last time you read the label before taking a sip? For me, it is never. One of the first ingredients listed on the can is HFCS or high fructose corn syrup. This ingredient is a secret additive to many products in today's market. High Fructose Corn Syrup is one of the cheapest to make and hardest to get rid of in the body. Since its introduction to food products in the 70's it has slowly been added to most foods, even ketchup. More and more scientists are trying to find links between HFCS and several major health problems; such as diabetes and obesity. Although a major link has not been definitely determined to date, minor links have been proven such as such as the amounts that can be consumed before harm can be determined. Even though some minor associations have been made the FDA still considers HFCS to be safe for consumption. The reason for this is because HFCS is not considered an artificial ingredient. The rule considered is as long as a product has no signs of a chemical added it cannot be labeled an â€Å"artificial ingredient†. In researching the origin of High Fructose Corn Syrup I found out that mercury was found in the product. Even with this new information, the FDA still allows this product to be used in 94% of the foods we consume every day. Why would you need to put HFCS in baby formula? In places like England and France they have practically banned HFCS and made it difficult to use in the entire country. The European Union has a deal with the Sugar Refiners to only use natural cane and beet sugars. High Fructose or Syrup as you now knows are any almost everything we eat and drink. But what you don't know is what it is really doing inside your body. High Fructose Corn Syrup started being mass produced in 1982. It was around that time that researchers noticed an increase in children developing type II diabetes. Obesity around the country has soared. Type 2 diabetes is related to the body's inability to effectively use the insulin that is produced by the pancreas. This is thought to be directly related to weight. It has been proven that HFCS also cause heart problems. This is also thought to be weight related. Despite all the recent attempts to try and prove HFCS unhealthy effects, the Corn Refiners Association has come out with campaigns in High Fructose Corn Syrup's defense. They state the HFCS are not bad and are ok when eaten in moderation. There is no such thing as moderation when it is found in 94 % of the food. While more cons can be found than pros for HFCS; the Corn RefinersAssociation stands behind their product. In fact all the pros I found came from the CRA. The only truth I found was that it is cheaper to produce. Their website has no real information; and in fact called what many to believe to be truths myths. Although the Corn Refiners Association proved to be pointless my endless goggle search did take me too many blogs and organizations which I found to be very informative. Even though the bloggers were only expressing their opinion, many found HFCS to be repulsive. Many of the organizations say they are 20 xs bad for your health. The most informative was HighFructoseCornSyrup. com they are a group of bloggers that I agree with. Each of their articles deal with HFCS in the media and how it is affecting us as a society. After reading all this information and making my way through my research, I began to question what I was eating. Is this slurpee chockfull of HFCS? Of course, just look at how sweet it is. Is my burger only good because that ketchup it’s covered with is full of â€Å"sugar†, I mean high fructose corn syrup? Maybe I'm just losing it because I didn't want to believe what I had been hearing for years was true. Is my weight gain because I eat too much or is it the Additive that is in so many of the foods I eat that caused the weight gain in the first place? Hmm! Although it has been on the market for about 35 years most thought their weight gain was cased only by a lack of exercise. With obesity at epidemic proportions many are starting to question is it something in the food too?