The Contribution of Informatics to the Development of Social

Essay The contribution of Informatics to the development of social networks and their impact on society Change is continuous constant; inevitable and sometimes unpredictable. We can easily say that world has changed a lot in industrial and mechanical era but the change seen in last half a century is exponential and amazing. If we have to credit one invention which had bought such a revolution, it would be computers. With advent of computers, a new paradigm shift was seen, computers enable mankind to compute and process data in more meaningful way with a blink of an eye.And it did not stop there, once a standalone computing machine, the true acumen of computers was judge when they were connected with each other forming a giant mesh of information following from one place to another in speed of light. As technology advances, the hardware and software capabilities of computers increased, now recently 1terabyte of hard disk space is normal for personal PCs, where servers and super comput ers can manage thousands of terabyte easily.Well it is debatable that can we apply â€Å"Moore’s Law† on the expansion of Internet too, but in practice it’s seen that Internet has grown tremendously in past years. Currently there are more than 50 billion web pages on Google alone, so one can easily imagine the depth and breadth of Internet. Humans have always shown eagerness and urge to learn unlearnt, find which is not found yet and invent things with improvisation and innovation. This hunger for knowledge is reflected on Internet, as it has abundance of information where millions of people quench their thirst.But the most amazing thing about the age of information and Internet is that they not only infested our professional or educational life but they have imbued our social life too. Aristotle once quoted in his Politics that â€Å"Man is by nature a social animal’, well if Aristotle would have been alive now he would have uttered that indeed man is s ocial network animal. Internet helped to shape new social norms in our generation, though we are in transaction period but in more than two decades this would be a tautology.Alvin Toffler in his book â€Å"The Third Wave† declared that the shores of the Earth have been struck by wave of information. Interestingly the power of Internet and socializing through networks was so strong that when Alvin Toffler wrote this book back in 1980’s Internet had not yet reached its epitome, though it has not reached it now but it’s far more glorious than back in 80’s. But still the anthropological changes pointed by Alvin are very visible and evident. Ships, trains, supersonic jets etc. have not shortened the edges of this world but Internet has really made this world a global village.It would not be an exaggeration; but single invention of making a meager data packet flow from one point to another brought all other inventions of 20 century to their knees. As there was a huge junk of scattered information lying on the Internet which would be useless in majority of cases was channelized by the brilliant idea of socializing sites. The informatics provided a concrete edifice to these social sites which developed their existence surrounding it. I can still remember that when I made my first account on orkut and shared a funny and witty scrap among my friends. I was rejuvenated by the replies and then it was no looking back.The concept of interacting with your friends who are at far geographical locations was just amazing and it also provided a taste of cross cultural exchange, and not only that but also increases your intellect by indulging in talks and debates around the world. The lacuna of geographical, cultural, religious, cast, creed etc. was beautifully filled by social sites and networks. The vastness of these social sites are unimaginable, as on face-book statistics, its reported that 800 million users are active member of face-book, and accor ding to Metcalfe’s law the number of connections can be calculated by squaring the connected people.One can hardly imagine vastness of the â€Å"node link† graph of these social sites. There is no harm in accepting that these social sites are now imperative part of our lives. But with pros there are also some cons attached they come with package, as human being is a bit stubborn, prejudice and many people will argue but sometimes irrational too, social site failed to provide tolerance and flexibility.It rather serves the purpose of fulfilling your social desires; desire to be loved and liked by your friends etc. But still I am not pessimistic, I am firm believer that these social networking may not bring complete ignorance and patience but will pave the path for global tranquility. In the end, I would like to conclude that social networking has shaped this world and I feel lucky and blessed to be a part of this revolution.

Language and Memory Essay

Language is the medium of communication. It can be verbal or written, making use of different conventional symbols and sounds. All social creatures on Earth have their own languages such as bees, ants, and apes. Human language is the most complicated of all because of speech. It is an evolving process of signs and symbols. It consists of different elements such as phonemes, syllables, words, grammatical categories, sentences, discourses, and many more. One of the characteristics of language is that it is symbolic. It makes use of symbols like pictures, diagrams, letters, numbers, and alike. Examples of this characteristic of language involve the hieroglyphics of ancient Egypt and the ancient symbols of the Mayans. Thus, it is important for humans to be able to understand and memorize the symbols in order to establish communication. Memory plays an important role in the process of language. It is the faculty of the mind which stores knowledge, previous thoughts, impression or events. Every word that is used, whether in isolation or used in a sentence has a meaning and that is stored in our brains (Kutas, et al, 2000). There are different types of memory. The first one is the short-term memory which recalls events that happened from a few seconds to a less than a minute ago. Long-term memory, on the other hand, is a stronger memory, which can recall events a few minutes after it happened. Episodic memory is responsible for personal experiences. Since language is composed of symbols and sounds, the human brain acts as a catalog of these symbols and their corresponding meanings. This is called semantic memory (â€Å"Types†, n.d.). Nature and Function of Semantic Memory Semantic memory is essential in language. It consists of independent ideas. These consist of information such as the location of the Great Wall, the shape of an apple, or the colors of the rainbow. Semantic memory organizes ideas and assigns them to words and language, which are essential in establishing communication. In a book entitled, â€Å"Essentials of Human Memory† written by Alan D. Baddeley, semantic memory does not actually mean an association between words (1999). Baddeley pointed out that semantic memory is actually concerned with concepts or ideas, having relation to words but are not words themselves. He argued that much of the information stored in the semantic system consists of perceptions and acquired knowledge. It is mainly a collection of experiences, more than what words can convey (p. 157). There are many views as to the nature of semantic memory. Baddeley quoted a number of psychologists that have their own theories. Roger Brown and Eric Lenneberg described the nature of semantic memory using colors. According to them, focal colors, or colors that have short names are easier to remember such as red, blue and green. The findings support the Whorfian hypothesis, which states that shorter words can easily be remembered (157). Functions of Language Language is a medium of expression that can either be spoken or written. According to Patrick Lockerby, language is â€Å"a coding system and a means by which information may be transmitted or shared between two or more communicators for purposes of command, instruction or play† (2009). Language has many functions but can be simplified into three. The first is the informative language function. This is essential in communication and channeling of information. It is used to describe the world or ideas towards it. This function involves statements with value or truth. The second is expressive language function. Here, language is used as a medium of feelings and attitudes. Examples of this are poetry and prose. There are two aspects in this function of language. These are evoking certain feelings and expressing feelings. The third function of language is called the directive language function. It is commonly found in requests or commands. It is not normally regarded to as true or false. There are other functions of language aside from the three basic functions. The ceremonial language, for example, is used in a way that it mixes the expressive and the directive language for the use of performance. The statement â€Å"I do† in a marriage is an example of performative utterances denoting action. There is also phallic language where there is a transition from spoken language to body language (â€Å"Functions, n.d†.). Stages of Production Basically, the process of language production begins at the source of the information, which is the sender. The message is conceptualized and then encoded to linguistic form, which involves the usage of words and sentences. The linguistic form is then encoded to speech. Speech is the one responsible for delivering the encoded information to the listener through sound. The sound is decoded by the listener into its linguistic form, which is then decoded to its original meaning (â€Å"Language†, n.d.). Memory and Language Bruce A. Crosson and Bruce Crosson discussed the relationship between language and memory in their book, â€Å"Subcortical Functions in Language and Memory†. Before any information is stored in the long term memory, it must first be converted to linguistic system with semantic characteristics. Thus, the ability to retrieve verbal memory of a certain entity is dependent on how the represented entity is accessed. This supports the importance of language since it is dependent on verbal memory (1992). Moreover, meanings or words and symbols are stored in the semantic memory. An evidence of this is the ability to develop one’s vocabulary (325). There are also studies which suggest a significant relationship between the semantic memory and language. A study by Marta Kutas and Kara D. Federmeier proved that semantic memory plays a role in language comprehension as revealed by electrophysiology. An electrophysiological brain component called the N400 reveals the nature and timing of an active semantic memory during language comprehension. Results show that sentence processing is influenced by the organization of semantic memory. In the left hemisphere, the semantic memory appears to pre-activate the meaning of forthcoming words (2000). The relationship between memory and language was studied by Viorica Marian and Margarita Kaushanskaya. Their study involved testing accessibility of general knowledge across two languages in bilinguals. Mandarin–English speakers were asked questions such as â€Å"name a statue of someone standing with a raised arm while looking into the distance†. The respondents were likely to answer Statute of Liberty for the English speakers and Statute of Mao for the Mandarin speakers. When the accuracy of the answers was measured, it showed that language-dependent memory has an effect on both languages. In measuring the speed of answering was measured, it showed that only the bilinguals’ more proficient language is the only ones affected by language-dependent memory (2007). The results of this study suggest that there is a strong relationship between memory and language. Also, linguistic context at the time of learning may become integrated into memory content. Conclusion In conclusion, language plays a very important role in communication and learning. It represents ideas, thoughts and attitudes that are embedded in the linguistic system. Language also has many different functions. Basically, these functions are informative, expressive, and directive. Memory and language are closely related. As mentioned before, any information, before, entering to the long term memory must be converted to a linguistic system first. Semantic memory thus, is significant in language production since the information in the verbal memory is dependent on how to access its representations. References Baddeley, A. D. (1999). â€Å"Essentials of Human Memory†. The Psychology Press, Ltd. â€Å"Common Forms and Functions of Language† (n.d.). Introduction to Logic. Retrieved 16 May 2010 from http://philosophy.lander.edu/logic/form_lang.html. Crosson, B. A., & Crosson, B. (1992). â€Å"Subcortical Functions in Language and Memory†. New York, New York: The Guilford Press. Kutas, Mand & Federmeier, K. D. (2000). â€Å"Electrophysiology Reveals Semantic Memory use in Language Comprehension†. Trends in Cognitiv Sciences, 4 (12). â€Å"Language Production†. (n.d.) Wikepedia. Retrieved 16 May 2010 from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Language_production. Lockerby, P (n.d.). â€Å"What is Language?†. The Chatter Box. Retrieved 16 May 2010 from http://www.scientificblogging.com/chatter_box/blog/what_language. Marian, V. & Kaushanskaya, M. (2007). â€Å"Language Context Guides Memory Content†. Psychonomic Bulletin & Review. 14 (5), 925-933.   Ã¢â‚¬Å"Types of Memory†, (n.d.). Brain Training Software. Retrieved 16 May 2010 from http://www.positscience.com/about-the-brain/brain-facts/types-of-memory.

Johnny Depp as Edward Scissorhands Essay

Johnny Depp, also known as Edward Scissorhands is the main focus of this movie. Edward being an invention â€Å"monster† as some might say, but he also has a kind heart for others. After the inventor â€Å"Father† of Edward died he stayed inclosed in the house, leaving him unfinished him having scissors for hands, he had become socially disconnected. Looking into Edward’s eyes you can tell he’s lost soul being in trapped in a unwanted body. Deserted in this House he calls home all alone until one day, Peg, a woman who sells avon, barges in and takes him with her. Edward gentle but frightened doesn’t know what the world had in store for him. Being alone for as long as Edward was he desired the attention Peg gave him. i honestly think Tim Burtons main focus of this film was to show that you can’t judge a book by its cover, by showing off Edwards unique qualities showing his fascinating personality & loving heart towards others. While easily amazing the neighbors with his shrub trimming and hair cutting skills. Edward falls drastically in love with Peg’s daughter Kim, but, KIm is dating the Jim who is just very hateful to Edward. Jim always pointed out that he could never hold hands with Kim without hurting her, also Edward being so socially disconnected from society.

German Foreign Direct Investments in China Coursework - 3

German Foreign Direct Investments in China - Coursework Example Majority of the studies have revealed that there is more benefit coming from FDI to both the host and the home country compared to the risks generated. It is noted that in FDI, a rational firm commits itself to invest in another firm or a different locality if only it is anticipating a viable profit that is to come from the operation (Dunning 1980, p. 9-31). Â  From the various sources, clear indications have been shown to support that there is an increase in foreign direct investment (FDI) in China. This is not surprising at all in regard to the huge market size and the opportunities for exploitation of resources in existence. In addition, the policies of open market China has been pursuing over the last twenty years and the efforts that have been converted to attract FDI has acted as a springboard to the growth of FDI, and the ultimate interest in the scientific analysis. The continuous development of China’s economic development largely does depend on the extent of policy-making and FDI that will help in facilitating inward investment. Moreover, foreign development and investment f specific industrial sector are seen as an essential way to establish the superstructure and the infrastructure of today’s economy of the market (Chang & Rosenzweig 2001, p. 747-776). Â  For several years, the model of OLI has been a significant framework min analyzing the multinational enterprise's activities as well as the economic rationale that takes place in the international operations. This model is also known as the eclectic model, and it was first postulated in the year 1976 after having been proposed by J. H. Dunning.

Network security Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 1

Network security - Essay Example As far as the computer hardware compatibility list (HCL) is concerned the peripherals must be compatible with the operating systems. The HCL may be centrally controlled and user driven. An official HCL should be available on the website of the operating system. The Linux operating system provides the best HCLs (http://www.linuxquestions.org/hcl). Microsoft windows provide the HCL access to average users also due to their market dominance (http://www.microsoft.com/whdc/hcl/) However network security policies aim at the protection of network and related accessible resources from unauthorized users. The administrators ensure the continuous monitoring and effective implementation of the security measures. In order to have a checklist in mind for fool proof security stem in the networking an example of defense of a house from thieves can help. The network attached storage helps the interconnected PCs from hacking and viruses. In this way the attacks at entry level are prevented when the alerts go through the whole network. The computer host security network is not dependable as the hackers can have access and can purchase the hosts rather more easily. The net work security checklist includes the authorization and authentication of the user, creation of firewall for filtering the allowed services to the user, provision of the intrusion prevention system, monitoring for suspected traffics, and denial of unauthorized service (Duane DeCapite, Cisco Press, and Sep. 8, 2006). Depending on the size of the users, software for Antivirus likes Norton or McAfee etc are used. The bigger businesses use the security analyzers in addition to firewalls. And physical security checks against viruses and security fencing. In the UNIX operating environment the script files are created by using screen capture commands. This means that the user is trying to capture the interaction between the text file and UNIX operating system. Such a text file is called a

Religious figures Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Religious figures - Term Paper Example According to the History, Lord Mahavir was the last Tirthankara of the Jain religion. As per the Jain methodology all Tirthankaras were human beings. They acquired the status of perfection / enlightenment after passing through meditation and self realization. Hence, Jains consider themselves as the perfect human beings. They do not either accept God as their creator, protector and the destroyer of the Universe nor they believe in the destruction of demons (Nagaraja 43). Mahavira was born in 599 B.C. in the Bihar State of India in the King’s house. His followers celebrate his birthday each year as Mahavir Jayanti. The name given to him by his parents was Vardhaman. Being a loving son of his parents, he used to enjoy pleasures and comforts of life in a princely manner. When he attained the age of 30, he gave up all the pleasures of material world and left his family and the Royal abode for good in search of finding solution to the problems of common people and became Monk (Jain & Upadhye 36). After leaving the family and the Royal home, he spent his next 12 years in deep silence and meditation to get rid of the pleasures of life. He did not indulge in any activities that could be harmful for the animals and the birds. In some part of the mentioned period, he lived without food. He found himself quite calm and composed in the face of unbearable sufferings. Due to cited qualities, he earned the fame of Mahavir, which means brave and courageous. During said period, his spiritual power completely developed and comes to the stage of self realization. Such realization in the religion of Jain is known as keval jnana (perfect/enlighten) (Jain & Upadhye 39).   Soon after completion of self realization exercise, Mahavir spent another 30 years of his life to travel in the length and width of India barefooted. During this period, he used to teach people about the truth that he realized. He appraised the people how an individual can enjoy freedom from the cycle of bi rth, pain, misery, life and death and to achieve the state of bliss for good. This state of bliss is known as nirvana or moksha (Nagaraja 54). According to the beliefs of Mahavir, under the influence of karma, the soul becomes greedy of worldly pleasures (personal belongings and possessions). In his view, worldly pleasures make an individual self centered resulting in more and more amassing of karmas.  He used to preach the right faith, right path and good conduct, which played decisive role in freeing the soul from the clutches of karma (Winternitz 107). We cite here three major events of the life of Mahavir a) Conception (Chyavana), an event when his mother conceived him in her womb b) after conceiving him in womb, the mother had fourteen dreams, but as per the belief of Digambar, they were sixteen dreams and c) his birth was the memorable event for his mother and the family alike. According to the belief of Mahavir’s followers, soon after his birth, the King of Heaven to ok him to the Mount of Meru and celebrated his birthday. The most important event in his life was when he gave up all worldly materials in his possession and took refuge in the ascetic order (Jain & Upadhye 47). The ages of darkness in the life of mankind, gave birth to three great religions namely Islam, Christianity and Judaism. The mentioned religions are deep rooted religions. The said religions made its inroads in the Old Testament patriarch. Abraham used to teach their followers about one God and no more (known as Ibrahim in Islam), was said

Disaster Recovery Plan Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words - 1

Disaster Recovery Plan - Term Paper Example The group is also responsible for the overall direction, decision-making, and approvals required in implementation of Business Continuity Plan in the event of disasters. Following are the member of incident Management Group (Kadlec & Shropshire, 2010) The Emergency Response Team (ERT) shall be responsible for the maintenance & compliance of disaster prevention measures and response in case of a disaster. The ERT shall comprise people from the Administration Department, which will be led by the Head of Department. Recovery Participants (RP) shall actively participate in the activities of resumption of critical business functions of their department. Below are the key responsibilities of an RPs of every department: Non-Recovery Participants (NRPs) shall be used only in case of emergency or as resumption progresses as the Backup Site or Primary Site. They will coordinate with the RPs and wait for their instructions. Below are responsibilities of an NRP of every department: Guster, D., McCann, B., Krzenski, K., & Lee, O. F. (2008). A cost effective, safe, and simple method to provide a disaster recovery plan to small and medium sized businesses. Review of Business Research, 8(4),

Automobile Centric Organizations Research Paper

Automobile Centric Organizations - Research Paper Example This paper will look at Daimler AG Corporation and the BMW group; two automobile centric organizations that operate in competition with each other, in complete detail with insight into the background of the company and its sectors and recent activities. Then, a full scale financial analysis by means of financial ratios will be conducted in order to analyze the most recent operating performance of both groups in contrast with each other. 'Daimler AG (formerly Daimler-Benz AG, DaimlerChrysler AG) is a German car Corporation (not to be confused with the British Daimler Motor Company) and the world's thirteenth largest car manufacturer as well as the largest truck manufacturer in the world. In addition to automobiles, Daimler manufactures trucks and provides financial services through its Daimler Financial Services arm.The company also owns major stakes in aerospace group EADS, high-technology and parent company of the Vodafone McLaren Mercedes racing team McLaren Group, and Japanese tru ck maker Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation. Daimler produces cars and trucks under the brands of Mercedes-Benz, Maybach, Smart, Freightliner and many others.' (Daimler AG, 2009)'Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (info) (BMW), (English: Bavarian Motor Works) is a German automobile, motorcycle and engine manufacturing company. Founded in 1916, it is known for its performance and luxury vehicles. It owns and produces the MINI brand, and is the parent company of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.' (BMW Group, 2009) In order to understand the complete picture that are depicted by the numerical financial ratios, it is critical to understand the key economic and business indicators that are essential for the operation of any organization in the business world: including the two under observation here. Key economic and business drivers Increasing demand trends International and local demand for cars is a main driver of the company's business and financial performance. Both organizations' diverse set of products and offerings is designed to provide more consistent results in both strong and weak economic environments. The company accomplishes this by not only having a mix of offerings with long-term cash and income streams, as well as cyclical transaction-based sales, but also by continually developing competitive products. In addition, both organizations continues to transform itself to take advantage of shifting demand trends, focusing on client- and industry-specific opportunities, and business performance. (Lev et al, 1979) Internal Business Transformation and International Integration Initiatives As indicated by their latest financial reports, control of costs and efficiency of management are the prime considerations for both these organizations at the current point in time and are committed towards the seamless transformation to an internationally integrated enterprise. The companies continue to drive greater productivity, flexibility and cost savings by transforming and globally integrating their own business processes and functions. This integration has improved their capacity to innovate by providing greater clarity of key priorities around shared goals and objectives and led to a sharper focus for the company on learning, development and knowledge sharing. (Lev et al, 1979) Investing in Growth Opportunities Both companies continue to significantly invest in growth opportunities as a way to drive revenue growth and market share gains. Daimler AG has announced that new capacities are to be created in Kecskemt, Hungary for the future expansion of the model range of premium compact cars. The first cars are to be assembled there in 2012 at this said facility. In addition, Daimler also became a key shareholder in Tognum in April, 2008. Daimler AG takes a 22.3% equity interest in Tognum AG. This acquisition is intended to secure long-term supply

Food Safety Management Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Food Safety Management - Case Study Example The first one was to focus on the causative agents and determine the preventive measures of food poisoning. Secondly, the report is supposed to contain the characteristics of food poisoning and foodborne infections. Therefore, this investigation will help determine the primary cause of the incident among the guests. The hotel provides catering services in a number of occasions that include weddings, conferences and other meetings. One of the primary concerns is to ensure that the clients are provided with quality and safe food. However, there are a number of issues in the hotel industry like food poisoning and contamination and the hotel has to ensure that it curbs them. Food contamination may occur when harmful microorganisms are introduced to the foods. It is brought about by handling of the foods poorly as Lawrence, Dobmeier, Bechtel, & Holstege (2007) points out. Most significantly, food contamination can emanate from pathogens or chemicals introduced to the foods during the preparation process or storage. Moreover, handling of food with dirty hands is the leading way globally through which microorganisms get into food. In this case, some bacteria like E. coli can be transferred to food. In addition, there is cross-contamination between food and unclean kitchen tools. Further, fresh fruits can be contaminated by washing them with dirty water containing faecal matter from animals. Food poisoning can cause illness and to some extent death when not contained in time. Mostly, growth of bacteria in food when cooked or poor handling worsens the situation. To reduce  food poisoning  occurrences, a number of conditions have to be met. It is important to understand that food contains bacteria naturally and microorganisms are likely to grow if they are within a conducive environment (Hennekinne, De Buyser, & Dragacci, 2012). Therefore, be the food handlers’ must be responsible to ensure that they do not provide a conducive environment for

Conduct of Monetary Policy in Kuwait Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Conduct of Monetary Policy in Kuwait - Essay Example In order to accomplish these broad goals, CBK has been adept in controlling the level of the domestic money supply and different interest rates. During the fiscal year 2005-2006, the broad definition of money supply or M2 amounts to KD14524.7 which represents a double digit increase of 17.2% from its previous level. This growth represents the ballooning of both quasi-money (18.6%) and narrow money (13.5%). The increase in money supply is attributed to the increase in both CBK's net foreign assets by 31.1% and the net foreign assets of local banks by 14.4% (Annual Report 2005-06 15). The strict monitoring of interest rates is primarily attributed to CBK's efforts in "ensuring their consistency with the domestic economic and monetary developments (Annual Report 2005-06 16)" and "their alignment with trends in major currencies (Annual Report 2005-06 16)." In general, this is to enhance the competitiveness and attractiveness of Kuwaiti dinar relative to foreign currencies.

Article analysis Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Article analysis - Assignment Example In both scenarios, the business success for both companies and suppliers will depend on the depth and strength of their relationship. This paper starts with an explanation of the common mistakes companies commit in dealing with their suppliers. Several factors that companies should consider before getting a supplier or outsourcing a business process will follow. Different types of supplier relationships are then explored. The paper ends with a discussion of properly managing supplier relationships. 2. Mistakes to avoid in supplier relationships The first mistake that companies commit even before entering into supplier relationships is the lack of organizational/business process analysis. Companies often enter into supplier relationships without first knowing what the company really needs. These â€Å"unevaluated processes† blind a company from the areas where it excels and areas where it needs improvement (Aron and Singh 136). A company, then, might mistakenly outsource core p rocesses which are vital to its functioning, or manufacture in-house those components which can be sourced from suppliers at lower costs with same quality, for instance. Another mistake companies make involves getting into supplier relationships for the wrong reasons. ... Venkatesan talks about the fear of some companies on being â€Å"hollowed out† once they establish a relationship with a supplier (99). These companies fear that sourcing components from suppliers makes their products lose their unique qualities which make them less competitive. While this fear may have a rational basis, companies tend to forget the purpose of getting a supplier in the first place. 3. Factors to consider in sourcing Several factors need to be analyzed first before coming up with a decision of whether or not to source. A thorough analysis of a company’s areas of strength and weakness should be accomplished first. This analysis will help the company determine which processes are vital and, therefore, should be kept in-house, and those processes that don’t necessarily add value to the product and, therefore, are better left at the hands of a service provider or a supplier. Aron and Singh suggest differentiating the â€Å"core, critical, and commodi ty processes† of a business organization (136). Core and critical processes usually involve management and analytical processes while commodity processes are clerical in nature. Venkatesan, meanwhile, differentiates â€Å"strategic and non-strategic components† (100). When it comes to manufacturing companies, the decision to source from suppliers usually come from an understanding of the products strategic and non-strategic components. Strategic components, as decided by management, are those that make the product stand-out from the market. These components have a direct impact on the product’s quality, differentiation, and market position. Non-strategic components, on the other hand, don’t necessarily affect the outcome of the final product. This can be the screws of a DVD player, capacitors

Elements of the Marketing Mix Essay Example for Free

Elements of the Marketing Mix Essay This case will study describe the elements of the marketing mix. These four elements include product, place, price and promotion. This paper will include a description of how an organization’s marketing strategy is affected by the four elements of the marketing mix. Another aspect that this paper will include is a description of how each element is implemented in the company. One more topic that this paper will describe is the organizations name and industry in which it exists. The marketing mix is defined as a mixture of several ideas and plans followed by a marketing representative to promote a particular product or brand. Several concepts and ideas are combined together to formulate final strategies helpful in making a brand popular amongst the masses to form the marketing mix (Marketing Mix Meaning and Its Elements, n.d.). The elements of the marketing mix are often called the four P’s of marketing (Perreault, Cannon, McCarthy, 2011). First, Product is defined as goods that are manufactured by organizations for the consumer. Products can be two types, tangible and intangible. A product in a market place is something which a seller sells to the buyers in exchange for money. Price is defined as the money which a buyer pays for a product. The price of a product is indirectly proportional to its availability in the market. If a product is not readily available then the price goes up (Marketing Mix Meaning and Its Elements, n.d.). Place refers to the location where the products are available and can be sold or purchased. Here one is exposed to a physical building, or store, or one can purchase items on the internet. Finally, the fourth element is promotion. Promotion refers to the various strategies and ideas implemented by the marketers to make the consumer aware of their product (Marketing Mix Meaning and Its Elements, n.d.). Today’s market is huge and there is an abundant variety of products available. Frito Lay is a multi-national  corporation that is predominantly in the salty snack business. Frito Lay aims its market strategy at both the mass market and target markets alike. This food driven company does have some strengths such as its renowned reliability, high quality control and markets its product as convenient fun foods. The products that Frito Lay generates have consumers in mind that particularly buy snack foods as a leisure item. Their packing and branding is targeting a consumer that wants to snack on the go or during lunch with a sandwich. With this in mind, the organizations marketing strategy uses all four of the marketing mix very well. Frito Lay sells a wide variety of chips form Ruffles to Lays, Cheetos to Doritos and Tostitos to Funyions. These products satisfy many customers’ needs for fun snacking. In the Product element, packaging is also very important when keeping the consumer satisfied. Bright colors are used to catch the eye when they design the bags that carry all of their brands. In the Place element, the product is highly visible in that one can purchase said items and every convenience store in the marketplace. Not only is the product in just about every UDS store but in vending machines and supermarkets. The channel of distribution is very important to deliver these products to the consumer and Frito Lay has an excellent distribution system in place. The third element, Promotion, targets new customers and retaining current customers. Many people have heard the phrase â€Å"no one can eat just one.† This catch phrase was designed for Lays potato chips and hasn’t been used in years, but just about everybody has heard that. That is advertising at its finest. The use of mass selling techniques has been advantageous to Frito Lay. The fourth â€Å"P† is Price and that obviously plays an important part in Frito’s model. Frito Lays strategy is to stay competitive with other salty snack manufacturers and their price points. Their target price is also directed at young adults and children. Each element in the marketing mix is used very well by Frito Lay. The products that this corporation sells to the consumer vary from salty snacks to cookies and even beef jerky. Frito Lay guarantees freshness for its product and delivers a price point that is competitive to just about any consumer. In the channels of distribution process it is important to get a food item to the retailer in a timely manner as the food item can spoil. The freshness guarantee that Frito Lay offers dictates that the salty snack has a shelf life of about a month for most products and the  products need to be removed from the shelves if they do not sell. Because of this model, the delivery system promotes efficiency when sold and distributed to each retailer. Promotions are huge with Frito Lay as they spend millions for point of sale coupons and retail discounts. Not only is there retail push for sales but Frito Lay spends millions on advertising. Advertising can be seen in standard commercials to big budget commercials during super bowl ads. These methods of communication are geared at mass selling and are very effective. Finally, the Price element is important to Frito Lay as the market price for materials goes up so does the price of their products. To circumvent these price hikes, Frito Lay will lower the content volume in the bag and not raise the price. In other instances, they will raise the price by ten cents and remove the price on the bag for a short period of time. The idea is to trick the consumer into believing the price is the same. In all the instances, Frito Lay has a business model that is very effective and has endured for many years. By understanding the similarities and differences between these elements one can understand how a corporation uses the marketing mix to their advantage. The four elements are critical to understand the very nature of the consumer and the retailer. This case study shows that it is important to understand the marketing mix business model as it pertains everyone and final user. References Marketing Mix Meaning and its Elements. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://managementstudyguide.com/marketing-mix.htm Perreault, W. D., Cannon, J. P., McCarthy, J. (2011). Basic Marketing. A Marketing Strategy Planning Approach. Retrieved from The University of Phoenix eBook Collectioon database.

India and imperialism: A developing country

India and imperialism: A developing country India is still a developing country because of imperialism. India was imperialized by British in the late 1700s and the early 1800s till 1947 until it gained independence or communism. The British started expanding with the help of the British East India Company. The British expanded their rule over India. India at that time was one the richest countries in the world. They were rich because they had the most expensive diamond in the World, Kohinoor Diamond, at that time India had very less poverty and little corruption as well. The British took the Kohinoor Diamond, and have it now in a museum in United Kingdom. The United Kingdom is developed because of our (Indians) diamond and not because of their own efforts. After the British rulers were force to leave India in the year 1947, India became a country among countries with the highest poverty and corruption. India was considered well developed before the British expanded their rule. However from 1947, till today it is considered dev eloping. Also, the British leaders led to a separation of a major sector of India, Pakistan. India and Pakistan were separated because of the British. The British not only separated India and Pakistan, it separated many parts of India from India. A good example of this is Jammu and Kashmir. Till today India and Pakistan are in a state of a cold war to decide that which part does Jammu and Kashmir belong to. The people from Jammu and Kashmir are tired of the war between India and Pakistan and want to be known as an independent country. The British separated thousands of Indians from each other. The British broke India from one large country to a large number of small countries. India is still a developing country because of Imperialism and this has an impact on me. I am actually from Sind, which now is a part of Pakistan. After the separation of India and Pakistan, I do not know whether I am an Indian of Pakistani. I just know I am a Sindhi. However, now I have become a part of India. Earlier I was considered to be a Pakistani Indian and now I am considered as a Hindu Indian. The British Imperialism has an indirect impact on me. The British imperialism increased poverty and corruption in my country and until these two factors are reduced or eliminated, India will not be developed. My families back in home town know exactly what the poverty is, and when I go back to India it is difficult for me to face them. The British has made it difficult for me to face my own family members. It is difficult to decide whether the British had thought that there imperialism would affect India for so long. The result of the British imperialism, after they left was that my fa mily shifted to Dubai, they thought staying in India would be difficult. Staying in my own country is difficult? Why? How is it my country if I cannot stay in it? These are some unanswered questions left for me to find answers for, and these questions have been raised only because of the existence of the British Empire in India. Whenever I go to India, looking at the people craving for money for food and water is so difficult, that sometimes I do not want to go back to my own country. The country which any human belongs to is usually the first choice a person wants to spend vacations at. But some Indians like me staying in Dubai, do not want to go back to our own country because it is difficult to face the people out there. The Persepolis, by Marjane Satrapi she gives reasons for Iran being a developing country because of imperialism. In the story Marjane a citizen of Iran which was under the imperialism of the Shahs and the Islamic republic represents the thousands of other citizens of Iran. The Iranian Revolution has led to the deaths of thousands of people. In the story, Marjane had to leave her own country, her own parents because she had no freedom of life. Marjane represents many Iranians who had to leave their own country because they wanted to live their lives themselves and not on the orders of others. Marjane was separated from her parents at a very young age to complete education. Usually, many students leave their parents by choice for higher education (University), while Marjane had to leave her parents by force for school. The Iranian revolution keeps Iran a developing country. A country is considered developed only if they have a maintained GDP, a developed infrastructure, and low unemplo yment levels. Iran lacks these qualities to an extent because of imperialism and hence still considered a developing country. As Marjane by the end of the Movie leaves her own country again because of imperialism, she shows that her own country could be considered hers due to the Iranian Revolution. The rules over there changed after Saddam overtook Iran. One of the most important rules that affected women and Marjane was, The veil is synonymous of freedom; a worthy woman must cover herself from the eyes of a man (Satrapi). This symbolizes many rules imposed on the Iranians which they did not want to agree to. However they had no freedom of choice. These things show how Iran is still under a developed country as a victim of imperialism. Both Iran and India are developing countries because of imperialism and affect the lives of many human beings including me. My father came to Dubai because my grandfather thought it is safe for him to study here rather than in India (his own country) because of British Imperialism, exactly how Marjane had to leave to Paris, for studies due to Iranian revolution. Going back to India for me is sometimes difficult because I cannot face those relatives of mine who lost their family members during the British Revolution. Exactly like by the end of the movie: The one day, the time to leave had come (Satrapi), Marjane leaves to France; similar to my dad leaving for Dubai from India and hence I am an Indian living in Dubai. The impact of imperialism might not be intentional by British but it has affected me similar to the impact of imperialism by Shah and Saddam on Iran. My father came to Dubai, though it was not his choice. I do not know what my life would have been if I had been grown up i n India. I sometimes do not feel like an Indian, because the problems faced by Indians living in India are comparatively more than the problems faced by them and hence I do not find myself to be capable of living in India. India is still a developing country and it is a fact which is difficult for me to face, while the Indians in India have accepted this fact and therefore are capable of living in India. When I go to India for vacations it is difficult for me to see people on the road, because of poverty. Here in Dubai when I hear about the corrupted ministers I feel angry and cannot do anything about it. As India is a developing country, Iran as shown in the movie Persepolis is also a developing country because of imperialism. Imperialism affects many people indirectly. Many people including me know the effects of imperialism, and the biggest drawback of imperialism is that it the imperialized country a lot of time and a much higher effort to develop. Both Marjane and I know the effects of imperialism. The only difference is that Marjane has expressed it through Persepolis and I through this essay. Work Cited: Satrapi, Marjane. Persepolis (2007) IMDb. The Internet Movie Database (IMDb). Web. 17 Dec. 2010. . Politics Among Nations: The Struggle for power and peace Politics Among Nations: The Struggle for power and peace In 1948 a German called Hans J Morgenthau wrote a book called, Politics Among Nations: The Struggle for power and peace. This was book was to become the bedrock of American foreign policy for much of the cold war years (1945-1991). Morgenthau was also very critical of American foreign policy, especially the war in Vietnam and viewed it as very simplistic, The statesman must think in terms of the national interest conceived as power among other powers. The popular mind, unaware of the fine distractions of the statesmans thinking, reasons more often than not in the simple moralistic and legalistic terms of absolute good and evil. (Morgenthau, 1978, p13). Morgenthau died in 1980, a supporter of his ideas called John J Mearsheimer has stated that, he would have regarded the neo-conservatives adventure in Iraq as equally flawed. (Mearsheimer, 2005). Mearsheimer also goes on to say that, almost all realists in the US- except Henry Kissinger- opposed the war in Iraq. (Mearsheimer, 2005). Th is highlights that most of the realists are collectively combined in their idea of thought. Realist influence in US foreign policy really started to take hold during the presidencies of John F Kennedy and Lyndon B Johnston and peaked during the Vietnam War. The main idea of the Vietnam War was to contain and defeat the communist threat in South East Asia, this very similar to George W. Bush Jnrs idea of containing and defeating terrorism in Iraq and stopping the spread of weapons of mass destruction. By the end of both wars the neoconservative and realist paradigms were in peaces due to the disastrous outcomes. Hans J Morgenthau identified six key principles of a Realist foreign policy in his book Politics among Nations: The Struggle for Power and Peace. (Morgenthau, 1978,4- p15). 1) Politics is governed by objective laws that have their roots in human nature. This means that realists try and make a paradigm that can be split between the truth and opinion we can emphasise with politicians and say what course of action they should take. 2) Interest is defined in terms of power. This is the primary function of politics. Countries have interests in many parts of the world. We do not ask what motivates a country in terms of foreign politics, we question how politicians go about achieving those interests. All countries are different and so some will behave differently to others, they might be predictable or unpredictable. Morgenthau argues in his book that predictable foreign policy can be good because it lessens risks taken and broadens the benefits of policies because that is politically successful. 3) Interest defined as power is an objective category which is universally valid but whose meaning can change. Morgenthau has described power as strength to rule people and keep control of that strength. 4) Universal moral principles cannot be applied to the actions of states in the abstract; the circumstances of time of time and place must be considered. The states continuation is the primary objective of any government. Any other course of politics will be judged by the actions taken. 5) The moral laws that govern the universe are distinct for the moral of anyone nation 6) The difference between political realism and other schools is real and profound. Realism is reliant on human nature. A man who only has one objective is dangerous because that is what he strives to achieve. But to further develop realism as a theory this man must not be included into other aspects of realism as a theory. The Chapters in this dissertation discuss these six principles and in the conclusion each principle will be analysed and summarised to give an evaluation of the foreign policy theory, portraying ways how a realist foreign policy approach is and is not a suitable way to determine foreign policy. Chapter One- How can realism be defined Realism uses the state as the primary actor in world politics. Its main achievement is that since the purpose of the state is national survival in a hostile environment the acquisition of power is the proper, rational and inevitable goal of foreign policy. Thus foreign politics can be defined as a struggle between power maximising states in a chaotic environment. Hence realism is sometimes referred to as the power politics school of thought. Although this policy does not offer adequate explanations for US foreign policy towards rogue states, states whose behaviour has the potential to alter external security environment in a negative way for the US. As James Feron argues the theory cant explain why, a state chooses bad or foolish foreign policies. (Feron, 1998, p291) These theories do not tell us why the US does not balance against some threats. Concepts of self -help and sovereignty become integral parts of the realist view of global affairs. Since all states seek to maximise power in such a lawless world, realism emphasises the prevalent nature of conflict and competition in world politics. This in turn validates the acquisition of military capabilities by states, sufficient at least to deter attacks in a dangerous and uncertain world. Acceptance of the constant risk of conflict does not mean that the threat of conflict should go unchecked, since this would threaten the whole concept of the state. A technique utilised by realists in managing conflicts is through the balance of power. For example this can be seen throughout the cold war with the build-up of arms and the desire to build a bigger military capability to ensure that the balance of power was held between the USA USSR. This case illustrates that power and the role power has is a major influence in international politics. This underlines the realist paradigm that international relations is based upon a hierarchy, of which it is based on power capabilities, where the principle of equality between states is non-existent since states vary in their abilities to project power. Weaker states are usually taken advantage of by stronger states. An example of this can be seen with US political and economic embargo and sanctions placed on Cuba since 1959, this the best example of a long term attempt at trying to bring about political change in a country. Chapter Two- Poltics is governed by objective laws that have their roots in human nature Morgenthaus first principle indicated that politics is governed by the rule of law and that this can be found in human nature. Realists argue that the rule of politics must make a clear cut choice between the fact and fiction that has to be supported by reasonable debate and evidence and it must not corrupt itself by the objective desires of politicians. An example for this can be found in the US decision to go to war with Iraq in 2003. The Bush administration clearly corrupted itself in looking for evidence and reasons to invade Iraq, and in doing so produced false reasons and intelligence to support their theory that Iraq was harbouring terrorists and manufacturing weapons of mass destruction. This idea is supported by Dr David Kays in his testimony to the Senate Armed Services Committee. Dr Kay stated We have not found at this point actual weapons, David Kays report to Congress went further to say, It does not mean weve concluded there are no actual weapons. (Kay 2004). In Bushs c ase for starting the war against Iraq realists would say that Bush failed to split the truth from opinion and therefore he gave a misleading reason for going to war. The war in Iraq, Bush had hoped for would be the domino theory that the Vietnam War was suppose to be. According to Mearsheimer Bush had hoped that by installing democracy in Iraq it would lead on to other nations having revolutions that would eventually implement a democratic government. This can be seen as going against Morgenthaus first principle But on the other hand we can see evidence of Morgenthaus teachings as a justification for the war in Iraq. Morgenthaus first principle of, Politics is governed by objective laws that have their roots in human nature. (Morgenthau, 1978, p4-15). This can be highlighted in foreign politics with states trying to compete against one another to be a global dominator this, objective law has its place in human nature. The USA has assumed its current position as global supper power since 1991 after the disintegration of the USSR. The attacks on the trade centres on 9th September 2001 marked a turning point in the way the USA thought it could wield its power. The USA felt as if its position as a leading super power was under attack and tried to regain its statue and position with the invasion of Iraq in 2003. But Morgenthau does not count on emotions to used as a reason to go to war which was used under the guise of the protecting innocent people from Saddams weapon of mass destruction threat. Morgenthau was enthusiastic to apply human nature and objective laws to his six principles. He used them to express his direct opposition to the war in Vietnam and how the US war there could not defended. He also highlights that the US government was, manipulating the public mind: by avoiding inconvenient facts, by disseminating misinformation under the guise of educating the public, by convening public meetings with a pro-war policy program, by enlisting speakers who share the freedom house agenda in consequence by making dissent unpopular and by suggesting the dissenters are unpatriotic. (Zimmer, 2011, p304). This can be seen in Morgenthaus first principle as it shows that politicians failure to split the truth and opinion can lead to a manipulation of action taken by those that are in charge and by the way they try to hold on to power. Leo Strauss, a neo conservative, seems to compliment Morgenthau on the way that human nature can effect decisions Strauss has indicated in his work that politicians tell noble lies to help society come to terms with the action there state is about to take. Strauss believed it was for politicians to assert powerful and inspiring myths everyone could believe in. They might not be true, but they were necessary illusions. One of these was religion and the order was the myth of the nation of America that was the idea that the country had a unique destiny to battle against the forces of evil throughout the world. (Curtis,2004) Chapter Three- Interest is defined in terms of power An ancient Greek philosopher called Thuydides is quoted as saying, the do what they have to do and the weak accept what they have to accept. (Strassler, 2008, p32). This can be highlighted in Morgenthaus second principle. Thuydides teaching can be a primary objective of a states acting to defend their interests. This is never more evident in American foreign policy towards Iraq. The war can be viewed as following a very clear cut path of realism rather than neo-conservatism. It can be argued that when a super power is on the path to war there is no state or international organisation that can stop it, for example the USSRs invasion and occupation of Afghanistan 1979-1989. This is most certainly the case with Iraq despite various protests to the war across the globe. In the wake of terrorist attacks on the 9th September 2001support for the war in Iraq was running high due to the information and evidence that was being provided by the Bush administration to the public. The war then began to echo that of Vietnam as American became bogged down in fighting insurgents and the death toll began to rise. This is evident in a Gallup poll (figure A), Iraq war opposition (63%) is also notable because it is the highest mistake percentage Gallup has ever measured for an active war involving the USA- surpassing by two percentage points to 61% who said the Vietnam war was a mistake in May 1971. (Jones, Gallup, 2008) (figure A) (Jones, Gallup, 2008) http://media.gallup.com/poll/graphs/080423Iraq1_x7b3m0.gif In conjunction with Morgenthaus second principle, the USA felt it was in there national interest to guarantee safety to themselves by eliminating Saddam Hussein. This in turn it was hoped, might have a knock on effect to the rest of the Middle East. Despite only a handful of supporters and many opponents to it, the USA took Thuydides view to the war. This also highlighted Americas commitment to spreading democracy and therefore creating a global and peaceful environment for the world and the Middle East. Is second principle of Morgenthaus of Interest is defined in power, can be viewed in another way that the US was securing its interests in the short to long term. Many critics have argued that the US is securing is interests in the short to long term and that Iraq had to pay the price for that under the case that was peddled by the Bush administration. David Lieberfield has suggested that, in order to address why Iraq in particular was targeted, realism would also point to Iraqs geostrategic location which impinged on multiple security concerns of the US and to Iraqs unsurpassed oil reserves which it could deploy against US interests (Liebierfield, 2005, p4). From a realists perspective this can be seen as the primary goal, securing the USs interests and preventing the emergence of a hostile power, instead of the neo-conservative view promoting human rights and encouraging democratisation. There is further evidence that America was trying to protect its long terms interests in the oi l that is in Iraq was during a cabinet meeting with Bush, President Bushs Cabinet agreed in April 2001 that Iraq remains a destabilising influence to the flow of oil to international markets from the Middle East and because this is an unacceptable risk to the US military intervention is necessary. (Murphy, Evening Standard, 2003). This chapter has demonstrated that Morgenthaus second principle of. Interests is defined in terms of power has shown that states achieving and protecting their interests by using power to define them is ruthless, The assertation of American power after 9/11 was seen as a turning point as it highlighted to the world that American power was not in terminal decline, America sought to protect itself and its national interests by the use of force. (Harisch, Frank, Maull, 2011, p182). Beside what many critics of the war may perceive, Henry Kissinger has claimed that it has benefited the US in the long term. (Kissinger, 2011). Although morality was injected into the reasoning behind the war, Strauss have advised that this and is evident in Morgenthaus first principle. Morgenthau tries to express in his writings that morality and national interest should be kept apart when it come to foreign policy. Chapter Five- Interest defined as power is an objective category which is universally valid but whose meaning can change Morgenthaus fourth principle takes into consideration the concept that Interest defined as power is an objective category which is universally valid but whose meaning can change. (Morgenthau, 1978,4- p15). Morgenthau places emphasis on the defining of power, he expansively defines it as, anything that establishes and maintains control over man. (Morgenthau, 1978,4- p15). He also argues that meaning and definition of the nation state changes over time, while the realist indeed believes that interest is the perennial standard by which political action must be judged and directed the contemporary connection between interest and the nation state is a product of history and therefore is bound to disappear in the course of history. (Williams, Wright, Evans, 1993, p198). Realists dont assume that the world as we know it at the moment, which is divided into individual states, could be replaced by states based on a larger entity and being far from what we know now. Other thoughts of realism, which are different to Morgenthaus, ponder about how the current global state of affairs will change. Realists do accept that this change can be bought about by looking at how factors shaped the past and that similar factors could possible shape the future. But Williams, Wright and Evans argue that, realists cannot be persuaded that we can bring about a transformation by confronting a political reality that has its own laws with an abstract idea that refuses to take those laws into account. (Williams, Wright, Evans, 1993, p198). Realism is against the idea of pacification. Realists support the theory that appeasement doesnt work by using Hitler as an example. The bush administration took a standing point with the realist perspective when it came to foreign policy with Iraq. The policy that was taken against Iraq, has been justified by Richard Perle, the continental power wanted until after Hitler invaded Poland in 1939 and America waited until after September 11th to go after Osama Bin Laden. Hitlers self declared ambitions and military build up like, like Bin Ladens were under constant scrutiny long before the acts of aggression to which a response became unavoidable. Both could have been stopped by a relatively modest well timed pre-emption. (Perle, The Telegraph, 2002). Perle goes on further to stress that, what risk do we run if Saddam remains in power ad continues to build his arsenal of chemical and biological weapons ? what dangers would follow his acquisition of nuclear weapons. We cannot know for su re. But on which side would it be better to be on? How would a decision to do nothing now and hope for best, look when Saddam has nuclear weapons and he makes another run at Kuwait or succeeds Afghanistan as terrorist head quarters of the world. (Perle, The Telegraph, 2002). Perle is highlighting the American and continuing schools of realisms thought on appeasement a potential dangerous enemy. He is conforming to Morgenthaus third principle by applying, establishing and maintaining a certain level of control over Iraq and the people of Iraq. This highlights Morgenthaus third principle, interests defined as power is an objective category which is universally valid but the whole mean can change. Howard Feinberg has argued that, Power is anything that establishes and maintains the control of man over man, accordingly to Morgenthaus third principle his definition of power cover not only the intrinsic power of capability (physical violence or the threat thereof), which is all that Waltz recognises, but also that of contingent power (subtle psychological ties and mental control). National character morale and the quality of government are found by Morgenthau to be even the most important components of power, even more so than the intrinsic capabilities. (Feinberg, 1996). This highlights that power is control and that Morgenthaus third principle realises this. But as with America, Morgenthaus third principle has realised that power has its limitations to control as the US found concerning its support from different nations lead ing up to the Iraq war. The critic Kenneth Waltz has argued that American justification for the war is an attempt to convince the world that to go to war is just. But it is also a classic realist sign that of an attempt at trying to take control, through the power of reasoning. The urge to explain is not born out of idle curiosity alone. It is produced also, by the desire to control or at least a desire to know if control is possible. (Waltz, 1996, p15). Despite Morgenthaus third principle, realism does not take into account the climate in which foreign policy can be applied. An important part of the realist school of thought is the balance of power. The balance of power can be applied successfully to foreign policy the actions applied can also make the world co-operate more there is no nation state is trying to gain an upper hand. An example of this could be the peace that has existed between France and Germany since the end of the Second World War. Chapter Five- Universal moral principles cannot be applied to the actions of states in the abstract; the circumstances of time and place must be considered. Morgenthaus fourth principle argues that the school of realism realises that morals can play a part in the importance of taking a political action. It also recognises that there can be some friction created between those that want to apply those morals to a states actions and whether or not the application of those morals on a states action is successful or not. Realism fails to address any tension that may occur and it does not make clear any moral or political issues which may occur by a state acting as a leader. The state may try and make its own morals appear more appealing to other nations than they actually are. Hasting argues that Morgenthaus fourth principle advocates that some states may act even if the moral is indefensible or even morally wrong, relations between states as leaders must sometimes take actions considered morally wrong in order to best serve the interest of those to whom they are accountable. i.e the people. (Hastings, academia.edu). Morgenthau insists that realism can not apply morals to states actions, Political realism is aware of the moral significance of political action. It is also aware of the ineluctable tension between the moral command and the requirements of successful political action. And it is unwilling to gloss over and obliterate that tension and thus to obfuscate both the moral and the political issue by making it appear as though the stark facts of politics were morally more satisfying than they actually are, and the moral law less exacting than it actually is. (Myers, 2006, p14). Morgenthaus argument highlights the fact that the state has an obligation to continue function as one, and to protect its people that are within the state. According to Keaney, he argues that it is the in the intrinsic nature of the human actors who control the states that cause states to behave in the way they do. (Keaney, 2006, p4) . This suggests that there can be no morality in politics unless there is careful mana gement. If states actors do not take into consideration the results of their actions then this can risk upsetting the balance of power. Realism does come to the conclusion that any form of political action is bad despite states morals. This is due to an outcome that is going to be unfavourable to any actors involved despite any judgements passed on actions taken. An example of this can be US foreign policy in Iraq. The US actions in Iraq can be considered a clear reflection of Morgenthaus fourth principle. This because of the US taking a course of action that other states actors did not agreed with. This can be seen in figure B with a steady decrease in the popularity of America after the invasion of Iraq, the chart shows the opinions of Western European countries. In realist terms the primary objectives of the American government after the September 11th attacks was to gain a foothold in the Middle East that would give access to other parts of the world. Many saw the Americans actions as unfavourable and that prompted them to say that the American attack on Iraq was for its oil reserves. The Bush administration came to the conclusion that it would be better to invade Iraq and eradicate it of terrorism altogether rather than them hunt individual terrorists. Bush prior to the invasion of Iraq squarely pinned the blame for anti-Americanism onto the shoulders of Iraq and other dictatorships in the Middle East. This argument has been supported by Tom Lindberg and Suzanne Mossel, Given the links drawn by everyone from Osama bin Laden to President Bush between the Iraqi insurgency and the fight against al Qaeda, it becomes clear that anti-Americanism plays at least some role in motivating those who aid and abet the Iraqi insurgency with financing, shelter, and other forms of support. (Lindberg, Mossel, The Princeton Project of National Security, p13). (Figure B) Do Opinion of the United States you have a favorable or unfavorable view of the U.S.? Europe: Percent responding Favorable, all years measured COUNTRY 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 View trend for Britain on this question Britain 75 70 58 55 56 51 53 69 65 61 60 View trend for Bulgaria on this question Bulgaria 72 51 View trend for Czech Republic on this question Czech Republic 71 45 54 View trend for France on this question France 62 42 37 43 39 39 42 75 73 75 69 View trend for Germany on this question Germany 60 45 38 42 37 30 31 64 63 62 52 View trend for Greece on this question Greece 35 View trend for Italy on this question Italy 70 60 53 74 View trend for Lithuania on this question Lithuania 73 View trend for Netherlands on this question Netherlands 45 View trend for Poland on this question Poland 79 62 61 68 67 74 70 69 View trend for Russia on this question Russia 61 37 46 52 43 41 46 44 57 56 52 View trend for Slovakia on this question Slovakia 60 41 View trend for Spain on this question Spain 38 41 23 34 33 58 61 64 58 View trend for Sweden on this question Sweden 46 View trend for Ukraine on this question Ukraine 80 54 60 As Morgenthaus four principle reiterates, some actions taken are going to be unfavourable to others. For realists the invasion of the country was a logical, with the evidence given. This is because national security and the continuation of the state take priority above any other interest which maybe had even if the political decision is unfavourable. The US did perceive that Iran and Syria did pose a threat against the USA. But with the US having such a close force to these threats it could be in a better position to take action against one of the need was there. Bush, it could be argued was using a domino theory as exactly as was employed in Vietnam. Chapter Six- The moral laws that govern the universe are distinct for the moral of anyone nation

Discuss the reasons for the growth and decline Essay -- essays researc

Up until World War II, Imperialism had been a major part of civilization throughout the world. The conquering and occupying of other lands had been prominent in all of the major world empires. The Romans, Ottaman Turks, Egyptians, Mongols, Syrians, Greecians, Babylonians, Muslims, Persians, and others had all thrived on the occupation of other territories. However, as the advancement of military warfare and techonolgy increased, the stakes increased, the wars longer, the casualities higher, and the controlling of vast amounts of land became harder as people sought ethnic diversity and clung to their heritage harder. The last of these great imperialistic empires stands with Great Britian and France. Other european powers in the 1800's also had their hand in the cookie jar of imperialism, including belgium, italy, and Germany, but the powerhouses existed with Great Britian and France. Up until a little after World War II, in the 1950's and 60's, did imperialism last. The questions asked now is how did European powers manuever their way into the lives of other ethninticies, and why didn't it last?   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Around 1870, imperialism in Africa escualted, with her coast line quickly being snatched by Great Britian, France, the Dutch, Germany, and the Italians, and then they started working their way inward. The Industrial Revolution caused new wealth to emerge, and this new wealth was invested in occupying new territories, for either a sign of prestige or dominance, probably both to an extent. Techonology is growing, and communications is increasing, thus making it easier to occupy new lands and peoples. Medical techonolgy is increasing, and the ability to combat new diseases helps the imperialistic powers overcome the new pestilences that they encounter. The increasing growth of the R.R made it easier to transport goods and materials needed to occupy territory. The population in Europe is growing, and these new lands are possible place to settle as well. But why did countries like Great Britian seek to expend enouormous amounts of money on provinces without much coming back to them?   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  One theory is the Accident theory that says their was no real intent in the colonization that took place. The theory says that once one land was taken, the surrounding land would... ...by the British by combining three tribal groups together. One the British left, much blood was shed over what a nigerian was or was not. There was no coherant agreement on what these new people stood for.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Goals for the future are almost dependant on the new countries ability to industrialize and keep up with the Western powers. Establishing a stable government is one step toward political and economic growth and stablity. Agreeing on what a country is about, and how they are to support themselves are vital. Holding fast to an identity, as Americans, Frenchmen, and the British do, only aids in the development of old things, and the creation of new techonology. However, as afore mentioned, because of their being no distribution of weatlth in the world, and within the new countries, the new money is only spread out over the growing population providing no real enhanced standard of living for anyone, the gap will become wider and wider economically between the more developed countries and the third world. Economic developement is the key to success, and without that, these once colonized countries will only continue to struggle.

A Brief History of Robin Hood by Nigel Cawthorne Essay -- heroic advent

The legend of Robin Hood is widely known throughout the world. There are various literary works pertaining to the adventures and tales of Robin Hood. The main legacy that Robin and his band of merry men leave behind is the heroic concept of stealing from the rich and giving to the poor. The tale has been around for hundreds of years, and is still a recurring theme used for different types of entertainment such as movies, plays, and books. As with most historical heroes, the facts of their lives may have been slightly fabricated with the passing of time. This is especially true with the myth of Robin Hood. There have been many historians that have searched to find out where the true legend originated. In A Brief History of Robin Hood, Nigel Cawthorne describes that Robin Hood might have been â€Å"born in Loxely around 1160 and was an active outlaw around 1193-4, then outlawed again in 1225 until his death in 1247†1. Robin Hood lived in the forest with his gang, the merry men. The merry men were other outlaws that helped Robin Hood with his heroic adventures. Hood is generally depicted as wearing green tights with feathers in his hat. He also carries along side of him a bow and arrow. The outfit of Robin Hood has however been slightly manipulated because the clothes he is depicted wearing had not even been designed until hundreds of years after his life span. The legend has been able to adapt to centuries of different cultures and civilizations and has become more romanticized and has the ability to appeal to persons of all ages. The mysteries behind the legendary Robin Hood are endless. The major components to consider while looking into Robin Hoods past involve, his myths, similar outlaws, eliminating outlaws, and the truth behind the... ...d: Amberley, 2010. Print. pp. 195-197. 7. Bradbury, Jim. Robin Hood: Man and Myth. Stroud: Amberley, 2010. Print. pp. 185. 8. Bradbury, Jim. Robin Hood: Man and Myth. Stroud: Amberley, 2010. Print. pp. 185-186. 9. Cawthorne, Nigel. A Brief History of Robin Hood:. London: Robinson, 2010. Print. pp. 53 10. Bradbury, Jim. Robin Hood: Man and Myth. Stroud: Amberley, 2010. Print. pp. 205. 11. Rennison, Nick. Robin Hood: Myth, History and Culture. Harpenden, Herts: Pocket Essentials, 2012. Print. pp. 9. Bibliography 1. Baldwin, David. Robin Hood: The English Outlaw Unmasked. Stroud: Amberley, 2010. Print. 2. Bradbury, Jim. Robin Hood: Man and Myth. Stroud: Amberley, 2010. Print. 3. Cawthorne, Nigel. A Brief History of Robin Hood:. London: Robinson, 2010. Print. 4. Rennison, Nick. Robin Hood: Myth, History and Culture. Harpenden, Herts: Pocket Essentials, 2012. Print.

The End of Oppression for Jamaican Women Essay -- Oppression Feminism

The End of Oppression for Jamaican Women Women have been oppressed in many places and in many different ways over the years, but in Jamaica this continuing trend is finally to be broken. "Sexual or gender inequality represents as essential and integral feature of social relations and culture construction in Jamaica, where for the past four hundred years colonial and imperialist exploitation has governed the development of economic, political, and sociocultural patterns and structures."(Harrison: Women in Jamaica's Urban Informal Economy pg. 12) Women have different roles in politics, economics and religion than their counterparts. It is important to know not just the general role of women, but it is also important to know where they come from. Women have not played a big role in politics, have been oppressed economically, and have not received equal pay. In the Rastafarian culture women are subservient, this is slowly changing. Where does this leave Jamaican women? A race looking for strong women role models. "Black women do not lack heroines or role models. They do though, need to rescue them from the shadows of selective history." (http://www.internurse.com /marymain.htm) Throughout the history of Jamaica there have been great women leaders and musicians, such as, Nanny of the Maroons, Queen Omega, Mary Jane Seacole, Marcia Griffith, Judy Mowatt, and Sister Carol. Currently it is very important today in Jamaica for young girls to have role models. Not only has Jamaican society and Rastafarian culture suppressed women, but other countries have as well. Going way back in history to the 1700's one can find a strong woman who is still talked about today. Nanny of the Maroons lived in the 1700'sm when people living in Ja... ..., 1997, URL: http://www.bobmarley.com/life/legacy/rita/ritainterview.html. Steffens, Roger, "Rita Marley", URL: http://hem.passagen.se/perdavid/ritaM.htm. 4/3/00. Timm, Bob, "Interview with Sister Carol", Nov 3, 1999, URL: http://ska.about.com/entertainment/ska/library/1999/aa110399b.htm. 4/11/00. United Nations Research Institute for Social Development, "Consultation on Gender and Industrial Policy", Aug. 1995, URL: http://www.unrisd.org/html/focus/focus1/eng/f1e12.htm. 4/3/00. Webmaster@jamaicaway.com, "Excellent Nanny of Maroons", 1999, URL: www.jamaicaway.com/Heroes/NannyPage.html. 4/3/00. Webmaster@sit.edu, "Jamaica Gender and Development", Jan 10, 2000, URL: http://www.sit.edu/studyabroad/americas/jamaica.html. 3/25/00. Whitemanm, Burchell, "Nanny of the Maroons", Feb. 1998, URL: www.kasnet.com/heroesofjamaica/nan/nan/nan1.htm. 4/3/00.

Genetics 301 Sample Final Examination

Genetics 301 Sample Final Examination Spring 2003 50 Multiple Choice Questions (Choose the best answer) 1. A cross between two true breeding lines one with dark blue flowers and one with bright white flowers produces F1 offspring that are light blue. When the F1 progeny are selfed a 1:2:1 ratio of dark blue to light blue to white flowers is observed. What genetic phenomenon is consistent with these results? a. epistasis b. incomplete dominance c. codominance d. inbreeding depression e. random mating 2. Mutations which occur in body cells which do not go on to form gametes can be classified as: a. auxotrophic mutations b. somatic mutations c. morphological mutations d. oncogenes e. temperature sensitive mutations 3. What would be the frequency of AABBCC individuals from a mating of two AaBbCc individuals? a.. 1/64 b. 1/32 c. 1/16 d. 1/8 e. 3/16 f. 1/4 4. The stage of meiosis in which chromosomes pair and cross over is: a. prophase I b. metaphase I c. prophase II d. metaphase II e. anaphase II2 5. Polyploidy refers to: a. extra copies of a gene adjacent to each other on a chromosome b. an individual with complete extra sets of chromosomes c. a chromosome which has replicated but not divided d. multiple ribosomes present on a single mRNA e. an inversion which does not include the centromere 6. A gene showing codominance- a. has both alleles independently expressed in the heterozygote b. has one allele dominant to the other c. has alleles tightly linked on the same chromosome d. has alleles expressed at the same time in development e. has alleles that are recessive to each other 7. The phenomenon of â€Å"independent assortment† refers to: a. expression at the same stage of development b. unlinked transmission of genes in crosses resulting from being located on different chromsomes, or far apart on the same chromosome. c. association of an RNA and a protein implying related function d. independent location of genes from each other in an interphase cell e. association of a protein and a DNA sequence implying related function 8. Mendel's law of segregation, as applied to the behavior of chromosomes in meiosis, means that: a. pairing of homologs will convert one allele into the other, leading to separation of the types. b. alleles of a gene separate from each other when homologs separate in meiosis I, or in meiosis II if there is a single crossover between the gene and the centromere. c. genes on the same chromosome will show 50% recombination d. alleles of a gene will be linked and passed on together through meiosis 9. Which component of transcribed RNA in eukaryotes is present in the initial transcript but is removed before translation occurs: a. Intron b. 3†² Poly A tail c. Ribosome binding site d. 5†² cap e. codons coding for the protein to be produced3 10. Choose the correct statement about the genetic code. a. includes 61 codons for amino acids and 3 stop codons b. almost universal; exactly the same in most genetic systems c. three bases per codon d. some amino acids are coded by multiple codons e. all of the above 11. X-chromosome inactivation a. normally takes place in males but not females b. is the cause of the Y chromosome being genetically inactive c. takes place in humans so that the same X chromosome is inactive in all of the cells of a female d. occurs in fruit flies but not in mammals e. results in genetically turning off one of the two X chromosomes in female mammals 12. DNA ligase is: a. an enzyme that joins fragments in normal DNA replication b. an enzyme involved in protein synthesis c. an enzyme of bacterial origin which cuts DNA at defined base sequences d. an enzyme that facilitates transcription of specific genes e. an enzyme which limits the level to which a particular nutrient reaches 13. An Hfr strain of E. coli contains: a. a vector of yeast or bacterial origin which is used to make many copies of a particular DNA sequence b. a bacterial chromosome with a human gene inserted c. a bacterial chromosome with the F factor inserted d. a human chromosome with a transposable element inserted e. a bacterial chromosome with a phage inserted4 14. An experiment was conducted in E. coli to map the following genes (pro, his, bio, met, phe and trp) on a circular map using 3 different Hfr strains. Strain 1 Order of transfer (early to late): trp met his pro Strain 2 Order of transfer (early to late): his met trp bio Strain 3 Order of transfer (early to late): pro phe bio trp Based on the results what is the most likely map? a. b. c. d. 15. Generation of antibody diversity in vertebrate animals takes place through: a. the presence of as many genes in the germ line as there are types of antibodies possible. b. infection with bacteria carrying antibody genes c. infection with viruses carrying antibody genes d. polyploidy in antibody-forming cells e. rearrangement of DNA in tissues that go on to produce antibodies 16. Replication of DNA: a. takes place in a â€Å"conservative† manner b. takes place in a â€Å"dispersive† manner c. takes place in a â€Å"semi-conservative† manner d. usually involves one origin of replication per chromosome in eukaryotes e. takes place only in the 3†² to 5†² direction trp pro his phe met bio trp pro bio met phe his phe met bio pro trp his trp pro met bio phe his5 17. A duplication is: a. an exchange between non-homologous chromosomes, resulting in chromosomes with new genes adjacent to each other. b. loss of genes in part of a chromosome c. an extra copy of the genes on part of a chromosome d. a reversal of order of genes on a chromosome e. an extra set of chromosomes in an organism 18. What is the co-transduction frequency for the A and B genes, from the following dataset? (Assume that there has been selection for the A+ form of the A gene). Genotype Number A+B+ C+ 10 A+B+ C- 30 A+ B- C+ 20 A+ B- C- 40 a. .10 b. .20 c. .30 d. .40 e. .50 19. A mutation in a codon leads to the substitution of one amino acid with another. What is the name for this type of mutation? a. nonsense mutation b. missense mutation c. frameshift mutation d. promoter muttion e. operator mutation 20. Mapping of human chromosomes: a. has been restricted to the sex chromosomes because of small family sizes b. proceeded much more successfully as large numbers of DNA markers became available. c. has determined that the number of linkage groups is about twice the number of chromosomes d. has demonstrated that almost all of the DNA is involved in coding for genes e. has shown that there are more genes on the Y than on the X chromosome6

Overview of Marketing and Branding Products of Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited Essay

The correct usage of these Lubricants of right quality ensures prolonged and trouble free vehicle operation, providing maximum benefits to the users of present day modern vehicles. Overview In line with the economic liberalisation in India, Lubricants was the first downstream Petroleum product to be totally deregulated with effect from 1991. Since then a large number of players – National, MNCs as well as Global Players – have entered the Indian Lubricants market. Despite operating in a totally competitive environment, BPCL’s Lubricants SBU has been registering a growth in lubricant sales continuously over the past couple of years. In 2007-08, an overall growth of 10% has been registered, with a healthy turnover of Rs. 1680 crores (approx USD 350 million). In 1998, we re-launched our Lubricants in new attractive packs, mainly in Automotive category with three major brands depicting each segment- Mak for Diesel Engine oils, Automol for Petrol Engine oils and Glide for Two/Three wheelers(mainly 2T then). In the year 2003, we decided to go for Umbrella Brand-MAK Lubricants, in subsequent years, branded all our industrial grades with MAK. Retail Channel Our core strength is our retail outlet network across the country, this comprises of about 7530 retail outlets. Our Lubes SBU have undertaken various initiatives in co-ordination with Retail Business to grow our sales volume through this channel. Initiatives undertaken by the SBU are setting up of Hero Honda City Works, Tata Authorised Service Station (TASS) and installation of Quick Oil Change Machines at retail outlets. Bazaar Channel With a network of 190 PLDs, 600 MAK Garages and MAK Mobile Vans established to improve reach and penetration in rural and unrepresented areas of MAK Brand, the SBU could reach to the last mile as far as the customers are concerned! We continue to improve our brand visibility across the network and there by increasing our market share across the segments. Industrial Channel Large number of prestigious customers has been added during the year to our already existing prestigious customer list. We are also suppliers of initial engine oil fill to TATA Motors, TVS, and Hero Honda etc. We also hold respectable share of Railway and Defence business. Infrastructure The Lube Plants at Wadilube (Mumbai), Budge Budge (Calcutta), Loni (Delhi) and Tondiarpet (Chennai) have organised themselves as close-knit teams to maximize levels of production and dispatch. The Plant at Wadilube is an ISO 9001:2008, ISO 14001:2004 ;amp; OHSAS 18001:2007 certified Plant. As part of the ongoing improvements in packaging, the new series of packages developed entirely in-house have been introduced. Other initiatives To support the business initiatives, a major thrust has been given to improving BPCL’s product offering and increases its market presence. The new R;amp;D Center at Sewree, Mumbai, has developed a number of new products in the automotive and industrial categories. Towards higher visibility, substantial investments have been made in revitalising the brands through product quality and package improvements. The entire distribution system has been revamped with the formation of Supply Chain Management department to ensure that products are more conveniently available and distinctively visible in the market price. Exclusive branded Lube Shoppe’s have been opened all over the country to improve our reach, as well as many innovative & unconventional methods are being used to create brand awareness especially in the diesel oils segments. Another major initiative has been to reach the products to the rural population through the tie-up with ITC – e-choupal network which has spread the MAK brand across the country in rural areas also. Currently this network is available in Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh and is likely to extend to other states also shortly. MAK also embarked on another thrust area of enrolling garages across the country in the network of â€Å"MAK Garages† there by providing standardized service across the network. This initiative not only rovides opportunity for the garages to enhance their business opportunity but also provides an assurance to the end customers that their vehicles are getting the right kind of lubricants. Brand Ambassador To promote MAK brand among the youth and improve the brand visibility, MAK signed up M. S. Dhoni as Brand ambassador in the year 2006. The rise of MAK brand in the minds of the consumers as well as market share coincided with the rise of Dhoni also, who today is the Youth icon of the year and also the Captain of the Indian team for all versions of the game – like MAK being the â€Å"Champion of All Engines†. BPCL is confident that it will continue to make substantial and sustained efforts with appropriate investments, synergies business between channels, improve quality and quantity standards, invest in R&D for new product development and aggressively build the brands to result in maximising the value addition for both the business and its customers. Research and Development Vision To create a centre of technical excellence for Product & Application Development through pursuit of knowledge and fostering creativity / innovation to be a pacesetter and achieve cost leadership in petroleum industry. Introduction The Research & Development Centre at Sewree, Mumbai was established in 1983 and recognized by Department of Scientific & Industrial Research, MoS&T. The R&D Centre has highly skilled and experienced Scientists & Engineers capable of developing various types of lubricant products, innovatively, using modern technology. It is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment / facilities for testing of lubricants, greases and fuels besides certain rig & performance tests required for developing new lubricants as well as upgrading the existing products on continuous basis.

Information

The term data refers to qualitative or quantitative attributes of a variable or set of variables. Data, which is the plural of datum are typically the results of measurements and can be the basis of graphs, images, or observations of a set of variables. Data are often viewed as the lowest level of abstraction from which information and then knowledge are derived. Raw data refers to a collection of numbers, characters, images or other outputs from devices that collect information to convert physical quantities into symbols that are unprocessed. The data being collected by Freeway Ford pertaining to the dates when cars were purchased and the names of the owners are just numbers and characters, and as my definition of Information below will show, the inability of Freeway Ford to translate this data into anything meaningful renders it short of being described as information. Information, on the other hand, is raw data that (1) has been verified to be accurate and timely, (2) is specific and organized for a purpose, (3) is presented within a context that gives it meaning and relevance, and which (4) leads to increase in understanding and decrease in uncertainty. The value of information lies solely in its ability to affect a behavior, decision, or outcome. A piece of information is considered valueless if, after receiving it, things remain unchanged. In the case of Freeway Ford, if the company had been contacting customers about routine maintenance with the data it had collected about the purchase dates of cars and the names of their owners, and if the company had further followed up three to four years later, when car owners are generally known to be ready to trade in their cars to try and get them to do trade-ins with Freeway Ford, the data they had collected would have translated into something useful, something that could change the way business was being done, and would have information.

The Life and Literature of F Scott Fitzgerald

ABOUT THE AUTHOR The Life and Literature of F. Scott Fitzgerald By Jillian Thompson May 16, 2012. English newspaper, The Guardian, once asked Jonathan Franzen, the Pulitzer Prize nominated author of The Corrections, to contribute what he believed were the greatest rules to abide by for aspiring fiction writers. His response was â€Å"Fiction that isn't an author's personal adventure into the frightening or the unknown isn't worth writing for anything but money† (Franzen). The novels of Francis Scott Fitzgerald suggest that he would agree wholeheartedly with Franzen.In his Notebooks, Fitzgerald wrote, â€Å"There never was a good biography of a good novelist. There couldn’t be. He’s too many people if he’s any good† (Fitzgerald 61). Fictionalizing emotions and backgrounds are an unparalleled resource to writers, and some of the greatest stories in literature have grown from the personal lives of novelists. Dickens’ David Copperfield, Hemingway ’s A Farewell To Arms, and Kerouac’s On the Road are famed illustrations of autofiction techniques, featuring a protagonist that has been modeled after the author, and a central plotline that mirrors the events of their lives.A close examination of the known facts of Scott Fitzgerald’s life is enough to establish that there is a profound relationship between his personal dispositions and the subject matter of his novels. It is also fair to conclude that he was deeply concerned with class, wealth, and their effect on the corruption of â€Å"The American Dream. † The novels and short stories of Scott Fitzgerald are documents that illustrate the hazy and glamorous Jazz Age, and had Fitzgerald’s own life been any less hazy and glamorous, some of America’s greatest literature may not have come to pass. THE LIFE OF SCOTT FITZGERALDFrancis Scott Key Fitzgerald was born September 24th, 1896 in St Paul, Minnesota, the only son to middle class parents , Edward and Mary Fitzgerald. His parents instilled him with a fear of failure, and an obsession with wealth that would haunt his life’s ambitions. At an early age, he proved himself an imaginative and talented writer, and despite some academic struggles, he was accepted to Princeton in 1913. Intent on following his family’s advice, Fitzgerald dedicated himself to the pursuit of social and intellectual attainments, the path he believed would lead him to fame and fortune.He joined any extracurricular activity that he believed would increase his social standing on campus, but the beginning of WWI put an end to any possible fruition of his efforts. He left Princeton for the army in 1917, and was stationed at Camp Sheridan in Montgomery, Alabama, where he began work on a novella called The Romantic Egotist. It was also there that he met the woman who would change the course of his life forever. Her name was Zelda Sayre, the â€Å"golden girl†, and in her, Fitzgerald met his match in both ambition and extravagance.They had a whirlwind romance, but in the summer of 1919, Zelda grew tired of waiting for his success, and ended their relationship. Devastated by her rejection, he moved back to St. Paul, more determined than ever to become rich enough to win Zelda back. He rewrote The Romantic Egotist and in a letter to his publisher wrote, â€Å"I have so many things dependent on its success—including of course a girl† (Bryer and Barks 149). In 1920 This Side of Paradise was published. The novel was an overnight sensation with postwar youth, and two weeks later Fitzgerald and Zelda were married.They became the icons of success and youth, the first â€Å"it† couple if there ever was one, but the tumultuous beginning of their relationship never quite faded away. He and Zelda lived far outside their means, and Fitzgerald continually sunk into debt. Zelda’s impulsiveness, once interpreted as charming, had become erratic, and emotionally draining for Fitzgerald and his writing suffered. While living in Europe, Zelda overdosed on sleeping pills, and flung herself down a flight of stairs in a jealous fit. Fitzgerald had Zelda institutionalized, and she was diagnosed with schizophrenia.Fitzgerald’s dream of his muse had become a nightmare, and he worked through his emotions the way he always had, through writing, and Tender is the Night was the result. Fitzgerald died of a heart attack in 1940, while writing his final novel, The Last Tycoon. Zelda died not long after, locked in a room awaiting treatment as the sanitarium set fire. They are buried together, with a shared headstone that quotes the final words of Fitzgerald’s masterpiece, The Great Gatsby. â€Å"So we beat on, boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past† (172). FITZGERALD AND THE JAZZ AGEPerhaps the most vivid and poetic character of any Fitzgerald novel is â€Å"The Jazz Age† itself. The histori cal backdrop of the glamorous world of Flappers and speakeasies that’s envisioned when one thinks of the â€Å"Roaring Twenties†, make the perfect canvas for Fitzgerald to place his characters, who share Fitzgerald’s own conflicted feelings on Jazz Age morals. The Great Gatsby and This Side of Paradise both center on the theme of love warped by status seeking. They can be read as harsh criticisms of 1920s America, and its disintegration during an era defined by material excess.With the end of WWI the American economy soared and brought about an era, from 1920-1931, which was marked by unprecedented national wealth and prosperity. The rise of the stock market and the shock of the war left America with a generation that compensated for the chaos by creating a society centered on materialism. People began to spend and consume like never before. The conservatism and modest values of Victorian society that marked the previous generation were too suffocating for the y outh who grew up fast during the â€Å"Great Crusade. A person from any background now had the opportunity to earn a fortune, especially if they were helping to supply the demand for bootleg liquor, such as Jay Gatsby was. But this giddiness was short lived, and after the stock market crash, those that had enjoyed the rapid succession from penniless to millionaire as a bootlegger, quickly lost everything as the economy crumbled. Even before the stock market crash, Fitzgerald portrayed the decay of the Jazz Age as the self-consuming society of excess that couldn’t possibly be sustained through its greed and cynicism. Fitzgerald always idolized the luxurious lifestyle of the rich.As the Fitzgerald’s fame rose in the early 1920s, he found himself slowly being seduced by the opulence of his newfound life. But despite the excitement of his new life, Fitzgerald struggled with the mixed feelings of hypocrisy associated with falling in love with a girl who was everything heâ €™d ever dreamed of, but who led him toward the materialism he had once despised. Fitzgerald developed his characters as representations of these inner conflicts. Arthur Mizener, Fitzgerald’s most noted biographer, wrote that Fitzgerald’s work so perfectly defined the Jazz Age because Fitzgerald nfused both sides of himself into what Mizener called â€Å"the middle-western Trimalchio and the spoiled priest† (297). The symbol of the green light on Daisy Buchanan’s dock in The Great Gatsby represents Fitzgerald’s hope for the future, but also the awareness that it may never be realized. Writing The Great Gatsby allowed Fitzgerald to confront his feelings on the superficiality of his world and its inhabitants. Even the title The Great Gatsby is a reflection on the Jazz Age as a masterful illusion. THE AUTHOR AND THE HERO The heart of any study on Scott Fitzgerald is of course his work.However, Fitzgerald wrote only about himself and the people and places with which he was familiar, therefore his life and his work are inextricably bound together. â€Å"There were four or five Zeldas and at least eight Scotts,† as James Thurber once put it in his book Credos and Curios, â€Å"so that their living room was forever tense with the presence of a dozen desperate personalities, even when they were alone in it. Some of these Fitzgeralds’ were characters out of a play or a novel, which made the lives of the multiple pair always theatrical, sometimes unreal, and often badly overacted† (63).In fact, reading This Side of Paradise is like reading a biography of Fitzgerald. A young man from the Midwest serves in the army, falls in love with a rich socialite, and they break up, leading him to search for success by any means available. Jay Gatsby and Amory Blaine, the young dandy protagonists of The Great Gatsby and This Side of Paradise, pursue and glorify wealth to win the affections of the woman they love, much like F itzgerald himself did to win Zelda Sayre.Gatsby and Blaine are perpetually romantic adolescents whose lives are based on the mistaken idea that enough money and fame can keep the love and beauty of the past crystallized forever. The romanticism of Gatsby and Blaine, which at first rises above the frivolity Fitzgerald associated with Jazz Age society, eventually disintegrates to unveil the corruption wealth causes. The Great Gatsby’s narrator, Nick Carraway, is a young man from the Midwest with an Ivy League education, exactly like Fitzgerald.Nick’s background makes him an ideal narrator because he is able to see past Gatsby’s superficialities to the man underneath. Fitzgerald uses Nick to express his opinion that an ideal based on a materialistic foundation is a self-defeating and ultimately destructive goal. Then lastly, there’s the girl. The object of all-consuming affection. Fitzgerald’s muse for his female protagonist was of course his wife, Ze lda. In fact, she was more than just a muse. After sharing her personal diaries with Fitzgerald, he used verbatim quotes to write the character of Rosalind Connage in This Side of Paradise.He wrote, â€Å"all criticism of Rosalind ends in her beauty† (Bryer and Barks 201) and told Zelda â€Å"the heroine does resemble you in more ways than four† (230). Like Daisy Buchanan in The Great Gatsby, Zelda never took to motherhood and was never particularly domestic. According to Fitzgerald’s Notebooks, the famous line from The Great Gatsby, â€Å"I hope she'll be a fool–that's the best thing a girl can be in this world, a beautiful little fool† (Fitzgerald 22), is based on what Zelda said after her daughter, Scottie, was born. The most accurate portrayal of Zelda is most likely in Tender is the Night, Fitzgerald’s last completed novel.This is a story of a man of almost limitless potential who makes the fatal decision to marry a beautiful but mental ly ill woman, and who ultimately sinks into despair and alcoholism when their doomed marriage fails. He wrote it about their time in Europe, and the Lost Generation community of writers, a term coined by Fitzgerald’s close friend Ernest Hemmingway to describe those who came of age during World War 1, including Gertrude Stein, T. S Eliot and Waldo Peirce. In the novel, he chronicled the decline of Zelda’s mental health, and his discovery that she would never return to the way she was.The Zelda in this novel not was the glorified beauty of This Side of Paradise or The Great Gatsby, and she a wrote a semi-autobiographical account of her own as a form of revenge against Fitzgerald after their marriage dissolved. After she was committed, Fitzgerald wrote in his Notebook, â€Å"In an odd way, perhaps incredible to you, she was always my child (it was not reciprocal as it often is in marriages) †¦ I was her great reality, often the only liaison agent who could make the world tangible to her† (478). â€Å"SO WE BEAT ON†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Fitzgerald, 172)The beginning of The Great Gatsby is prefaced by a poem written by a fictional character from This Side of Paradise. It reads, Then wear the gold hat, if that will move her; If you can bounce high, bounce for her too, Till she cry ‘Lover, gold-hatted, high-bouncing lover, I must have you! (6) If the words of Jonathan Franzen are true, then it can be assumed that Fitzgerald’s greatest adventure into the unknown was his relationship with Zelda. Their relationship became the basis of his life’s work, which made him one of the greatest storytellers American literature has known to date.