The Burden in The Things They Carried by OBrien Essay

The Burden in The Things They Carried by OBrien In The Things They Carried, OBrien made reference to the Vietnam war that was closely associated with the physical, psychological, and emotional weight the soldiers beared. The overall method of presentation of this story incorporated many different outlooks on the things the soldiers carried, dealt with, and were forced to adapt to. In addition to this, OBrien showed us the many reasons why and how the soldiers posessed these things individually and collectively and how they were associated directly and indirectly. The strong historical content in The Things They Carried helped emphasize the focus of the story and establish a clearer understanding of details in the†¦show more content†¦Vietnam made a big portion of history also through its use of slang and war specified language. This language came about through many means including its adaption to the Vietnamese language, coded words, phrases, profanity and initials that represent war objects, and other means, and to r epresent or even hide their emotional stand points. On page 19, OBrien describes the young soldiers as actors. They were afraid of dying but they were even more afraid to show it. On page 12, Lieutenant describes his feelings for Martha as dense, crushing love. He then explains how he wants to sleep inside her lungs, breathe her blood, amd be smothered. This sounds like extremely harsh description for love. However, the soldiers environment became the most they could relate to. For example, to describe the death of a soldier, theyd used phrases such as Boom. Down. Like Cement, or flat fuck fell. OBrien explains how the soldiers would make conscious efforts to joke about things and make comical references to have themselves laugh. Page 19 describes that they used a hard vocabulary to contain the terrible softness. At the end of page 18 and beginning of page 19, we find that the men would now and then panic and have the desire to cry out for the misery to stop. Theyd make u nguaranteed promises to God and their parents in hope that that would be their source of survival. On page 11 OBrien tells that the Imagination was aShow MoreRelatedRemembrance is a Substantial Burden in the Book, The Things They Carried by Tim OBrien614 Words   |  2 Pages Remembrance; the mental impression on the brain from a certain event. Each soldier in the book, The Things They Carried, experiences some sort of remembrance whether it be saddening or enlightening. Remembrance is consistently perceived as the ability our brains have to go back and revisit moments in time which either disturb us, or give to us a feeling of pure happiness. Its mere sound provokes thought along with curiosity. Generally, when we are alone, surrounded by a nonchalant atmosphere, ourRead MoreThe Things They Carried Questions1139 Words   |  5 Pagesâ€Å"The Things They Carried† Questions a) The main topic of this novel is burdens. O’Brien is writing about what burdens the soldiers and he had to carry throughout war, physically and emotionally. One way I know is because of the title- â€Å"The Things They Carried.† This title almost summarizes the whole book. O’Brien frequently showed and explained the burdens that were inner conflicts of his and outer conflicts too. In the chapter â€Å"The things They Carried,† O’Brien showed an emotional burdenRead MoreHeroism In Tim OBriens The Things They Carried1684 Words   |  7 Pagesis far from the reality that is war. A more realistic rendition of war is seen in Tim O’Brien’s short story, The Things They Carried. Throughout the story, O’Brien uses metafictional characters to portray the physical and emotional burdens carried by American soldiers who were forced to conform to societal expectations upon being drafted for the Vietnam War. The literary elements Oâ⠂¬â„¢Brien uses throughout the story to convey this theme are symbolism, imagery, tone, and inner conflict of the protagonistRead MoreTim OBriens Captivating and Life-Changing Story The Things They Carried632 Words   |  3 Pages â€Å"The Things They Carried† is a short verisimilitude story. It was written by Tim O’Brien, who is a Vietnam veteran. He never dreamed it would have been such a captivating and life changing story that it has become. Tim O’Brien introduces us to life during the Vietnam War. He captures the feelings of each soldier as they were in the battle field. We are involved in their dreams, fears, and the ghosts that haunted them. These were some of the things they carried. â€Å"First Lieutenant Jimmy Cross carriedRead MoreAn Inside Look At A Soldiers Life in the Vietnam War Essay1346 Words   |  6 Pagesdeaths. From the beginning of the story, O’Brien the author of â€Å"The Things They Carried† uses specific details and illustrations to show readers what the experience was like for the men during the Vietnam war. Among the many things that the men carry were guilt, fear, grief, and stress. Throughout the story O’Brien emphasizes the dreadful events that these men carry with them by incorporating the use of multiple themes such as: the emotional and physical burdens, fear, psychological well being and theRead MoreSummary Of The Things They Carried 915 Words   |  4 Pagesthe story, The Things They Carried, Lieutenant Jimmy Cross is a man who is in two forms of war, one that is in Vietnam, and one that is mental. Lieutenant Cross carried many things while in war. Lieutenant Cross did not just carry equipment, he also  "carried the common secret of cowardice barley restrained, the instinct to run or freeze or hide, and in many respects this was the heaviest burden of all, for it could never be put down, it required perfect balance and posture† (O’Brien, 1198). ThroughoutRead MoreOverview: The Things They Carried by Tim OBrien1510 Words   |  7 Pages The Things They Carried is a novel written by Vietnam Veteran Tim O’Brien. The Vietnam War took place between 1955 and 1975. Most of the soldiers fighting were young teenage men around the age of eighteen and nineteen years old. Like O’Brien many of these young men were pulled away from their families and life to fight a war they didn’t approve of or even know about. This had a strong affect on most of these men and O’Brien uses different ways to show how the Vietnam War affected them both physicallyRead MoreThe Things They Carried By Tim O Brien917 Words   |  4 PagesThe Things They Carried is an autobi ographical novel written by Tim O’Brien that details his time as a soldier in the Vietnam War. Considered to be â€Å"the best work of fiction ever written about Vietnam, some even think it is the best about war,† (Greenya 1). The stories that are contained within the novel talk about themes such as loss, burdens, and the horrifying truths of the Vietnam War, the first war to take place during a more ‘modern’ era, as the tragedies of the war could be broadcasted throughRead More Tim OBriens The Things They Carried Essay735 Words   |  3 PagesTim OBriens The Things They Carried Culture teaches that men must dispense of ridiculous emotions and remain firm, following expected duties. O’Brien develops this theme of the transition from youth to manhood in his short story, â€Å"The Things They Carried.† Through the protagonist Jimmy Cross, metaphors of weight, and futile ideas of freedom, O’Brien reveals how society expects young men in transition to adulthood to let go of impractical idealism and dwell instead on the cruel reality of theRead MoreEssay On The Things They Carried1058 Words   |  5 Pages â€Å"The Things They Carried† provides a personal view into the minds of soldiers, and tells us the emotional and psychological costs of war. First Lieutenant Jimmy Cross is stationed in Vietnam in the middle of the war. He seems to be a man in love, or more like a man in love with the idea of a lady named Martha. He ends up changing from a love struck, blind man into a firm, leading soldier. In this story, the characters do t he things they do because of desires and motivations. In â€Å"The Things

Popper Free Essays

â€Å"The greatest disease in the West today is not Tuberculosis or leprosy; it is being unwanted, unloved, and uncared for. We can cure physical diseases with medicine, but the only cure for loneliness, despair, and hopelessness is love. † This quote, spoken by Mother Teresa, describes why I aspire to be a nurse. We will write a custom essay sample on Popper or any similar topic only for you Order Now The technology and medicine we have in the world today is extremely advanced. However, this advanced technology and medicine would be worthless without the compassion and quality care given by trained nurses. I remember when my mom got the phone call that my grandfather had stopped breathing and that he only had a few hours to live. My grandparents live in Florida, however; they were driving to New York for a wedding. After they drove through the Lincoln Tunnel, my grandparents’ next direction was to make their first right. Instead, my grandfather proceeded to make the first left. My grandmother said, † No, you turned the wrong way! † My grandfather replied, † But the hospital is this way. † My mom told me that his heart had stopped. My grandfather has a long history of earth problems and has had many surgeries. He resuscitated by the Meet’s and was put into the Intensive Care Unit. My father drove my mother and aunt to New York so they could have the opportunity to see my grandfather still alive since he was not expected to live more than a few hours. With modern medicine and lots of prayer, he was able to make a full recovery. This incident made me want to learn more about how the body and the heart works. Ever since then, I’ve wanted to be a cardiovascular nurse. To me, being a nurse is far more than a Job or career. It is a continuous learning recess that I look forward to every day. I love the thought that I can wake up every day and help people. In order to be a great nurse, you must have many qualities that enable you to be a leader, an advocate, and a friend. It is a necessity to give quality care. Nurses have to have compassion. Compassion is not a single trait. Compassion means you care, you are loyal, devoted, honest, and hardworking. It means you are willing to do more for others than for yourself. Now I am in my senior year of high school and I am still working towards my dream of becoming a cardiovascular nurse. I am in the nursing program at Hartford Tech and I am currently participating in clinical at Lories Nursing Home. After I complete 40 hours of hands-on experience at Lories and pass a state skills and written test, I will become a Certified Nursing Assistant and a Geriatric Nursing Assistant. I plan on attending Hartford Community College in the fall of 2014. I hope to get into the nursing program there and receive my associates degree. After receiving my associates degree, I plan to continue on to a university and earn my masters degree. How to cite Popper, Papers

International Marketing Tactics Followed by the Perfume Shop

Question: Discusses the international marketing strategies applied by The perfume shop for achieving the expansion and the objectives, along with a brief review of the Indian perfume market scenario. Answer: 1.0 Introduction Brands and products that are created in one country are readily accepted in other countries unenthusiastically. The reason is the international marketing strategies applied by the companies for huge marketing and spreading awareness about the product among the users. One such company is The Perfume Shop. It plans to expand its business in India in association with the Indian business giants. This study discusses the international marketing strategies applied by The perfume shop for achieving the expansion and the objectives, along with a brief review of the Indian perfume market scenario. 2.0 Background of the company The Perfume Shop is a perfume retailer established in United Kingdom in 1992. In 2005 the company was acquired by the largest beauty and health retailer of the world, A.S Watson group. By 2014 it had 263 locations in the world. The distribution of the company has seen many changes over the time as the trade expanded from smaller shops to big retail giants, an finally expanding worldwide. Online trading was started in 2004 by the company, which has now expanded to fully fledged e-commerce teams. The real success was hit by The perfume shop in 2010 after it introduced shop in shop concept in Superdrug stores. The project proved to be a big hit after it was trialed in 11 stores initially. The company launched its own loyalty card scheme named reward club. The scheme was helpful in getting more information about the customers, and enabled the customization of offers accordingly. In 2012 store to door service was started making the availability of the product more customers friendly. By 2 014, The perfume shop was placed third time among the top 100 best companies to work with. Now the company is looking forward to an expansion in India, and spread its business through appropriate strategy implementation (www.theperfumeshop.com). 3.0 Proposal The Perfume shop plans to enter the Indian market through joint venture arrangements. The ventures would be with Westside, which is a retail arm of the TATA group. The retail operation of the company is via the Superdrug stores in United Kingdom. A joint venture is also planned with the E-commerce giant Myntra, which has been undertaken by Flip kart. 4.0 Perfume industry in India The estimation of the Indian fragrance industry is estimated to be of around $ 20 Billion, which constitutes to 10% of the fragrance industry worldwide, which is $ 2000 Million. The population which have potential customer base makes around 17.8% of the total count (www.fafai.org). More than 35% of the Indian population makes the young count and among them more than half of the population has got disposable income. By 2030 the expected rise in the count of working people is 75%. Indian market have got enough potential for foreign expansion to happen, as it have got immense proportions in the market that proves to be profitable in sectors like fast moving consumer goods. India is also a gateway to other developing countries, like those in East Africa and Middle East. The East Asian markets can be well accessed through India, which also a major searching ground for the suppliers. As the worlds largest democracy, India is a politically stable since it got independence in 1947. The free market model adoption by the country gave valuable returns to the companies investing there (www.ibef.org). India also offers low cost manufacturing and an outsourcing base for carrying out production or outsourcing parts and services for giving a competition in the current market. A huge pool of talented professionals and skilled as well as unskilled labor for developing a competitive edge in the market is present in India. 5.0 Literature review 5.1 Marketing mix strategy The crucial stage of any market strategy planning is the construction of the marketing mix. The objectives for marketing and the long term goals of the company decide how the marketing mix has to be built and implemented (Zeybek, 2013). Not only from the point of view of the organization, the marketing mix of any company hugely depends on the structure of the target market as well as the different condition that affects market. The various internal along with external factors that have a direct interference with the market functioning, have crucial role in the strategy built up of marketing. Figure 1: The 4Ps of Marketing (Source: Yang et al. 2013) Marketing mix is comprised of four Ps, that segregates each of the factors, that has to be kept in mind for planning a perfect strategy for a product (Khan, 2011, pg-94). The application of the 4Ps varies from company to company. However, here the implementation of the mix by The perfume shop will be assessed. Product: the product offered by any company is not limited to only the tangibility. The product can be non-tangible as well, which we more precisely refer as a service (Vos, 2013). Any product can have three segmentation in it that is the core product, the second one is the actual product and the third segment is concludes with augmented product. The core product represents the thing that is bought by the consumer, where as the features of the products make the actual product. Augmented product makes the part that proves to beneficial to the consumers. The Perfume Shop provides tangible product, which contains the core product that the consumers are buying, the actual product is the brand value of The perfume shop, the quality that it offers and augmented product is the after sales service by the company. Price: The price of a product is the main deciding factor of profits that the company will make. Pricing effects the complete process of distribution as it is directly linked to the supply and demand of the product. High price of any product has to face consumer switching to other brands, however value for money concept is not applied in all product category. The pricing strategy applied for any particular product depends on lots of factors including the internal and Among the various modes of pricing The perfume shop applies price skimming method, as the price of the product is set high. Price skimming involves high pricing of the product and lowering the cost later as per the market circumstances and requirement (Siddiqi, 2013). Place: the place of the product here indicates that where and how the product is going to be available for the customers. The perfume shop plans to expand in India via joint ventures with the Westside. It is one of the premium retail brands in India, which has separate sections for the variety of merchandise. Distribution of the product will be done by the Westside itself. An intensive distribution strategy by TATA will help in better availability of product throughout the country. Apart from this Myntra is the online shopping partner of The perfume shop which will enable online availability of the product. Promotion: promotion of the brand will help in building a high value presence through advertisement campaigning via television, social media, newspapers, radio, and posters (Sheth, 2011). Another strategy is sponsoring sports teams like Mumbai Indians in IPL matches through logo, sponsoring Bollywood and fashion shows by top Indian designers. Application software development for customers for anytime access and utilization of TPS card will directly approach the customers. 5.2 SWOT analysis The SWOT analysis by The perfume shop will give an insight of the marketing environment of India, and what are the situations that are favorable or unfavorable for the expansion by The perfume shop (Miller and Mills, 2012). The analysis explains the strengths of the brand which it can use for establishing feet hold in India, the opportunities include the economic, political, social environment factors which would prove beneficial for The perfume shop. Weakness indicates towards the areas which are to be concentrated on for avoiding any hindrances in the expansion by the company. And threats are the possible hindrances in India that the company has to be aware about and can cause negative impact in the establishment. This portfolio building strategy helps in the internal environment analysis and also gives an over view of the external business environment (Schertler and Tykvov, 2011). Figure 3: SWOT analysis of The perfume shop (Source: Melnyk et al. 2012) 5.3 Internationalization process by The Perfume Shop: Internationalization is practices by the companies for making its products or services adaptable to the conditions and population of the respective countries (Lee and Carter, 2011). There are many types of internationalization process followed by companies worldwide. These include: Export-based internationalisation Non-equity based internationalization Equity-based internationalisation However, The perfume shop follows the Equity based internationalization method. Joint venture is a kind of a equity based strategy. Following the strategy will give relief to The perfume shop for bearing the cost and risk of loss in a foreign market. The venture firm is responsible for taking the risks and the costs. In this case the Westside chosen by The perfume shop for that particular market, receives all kind of support, promotion and marketing from the company itself for building a better product experience for the consumers. The global recognition of The perfume shop has made it a dependable brand for the companies getting into ventures. However, this internationalization method tends to build the presence of the company more global, which in turn contributes to development of the brand globally (Jolivot, 2008). The preference to equity system results in much more cheaper expansion in context of overseas, as the companies in the joint ventures are suppose to be more familiar w ith the culture of the respective country. Foreign joint ventures have lots in common with the licensing strategy, though the major difference is that in a joint venture, The perfume shop has an equity position and a management voice in the Indian firm, which is Westside here, the retail arm of TATA. The partnership in between the host and home country firm will be formed. This agreement will give a control over the operations and access to local market knowledge to The perfume shop. It will have access to the relationship networks and is very minimally exposed to risk expropriations. But, along with the advantages there is certain negative perspective of the internationalization process. The formation of ventures can give a cost cutting advantage to the perfume shop but the control over the quality of the product will not be there (Johanson, 2012). The quality factor may vary from country to country. Apart from this it does not allow the transfers of profit from one country to raise the profit of other country. Other common issue can be a tiff within the organizations, which The perfume shop might have to be alert about. 5.4 The GMS model According to Granleese (2014), for looking into the global marketing strategy of a firm from all the possible directions and angles three dimensions should be taken into consideration. The GMS model explains the extent to which the firm globalizes its marketing strategies in various nations through the standardizing variables of marketing mix, concentrating and coordinating the activities of marketing and integrating competitive moves across the global markets. The global marketing strategy is not only beneficial financially but also strategically. Figure 4: The GMS model (Source: Eckman et al.2015) In view of Chikweche (2013), the standardization perspective follows the basic logic of scaling economies, including low-cost and simplification ultimately leading to the efficiency, consistency, and idea transfer of the firm, whereas configuration-coordination perspective gives comparative advantage, interdependency and specialization which leads to efficiency and synergies as well. Integration perspective have got the basic logic of cross subsidization along with competitive dislocation and rationalization which increases the effectiveness in the competition and give competitive leverage over other products in the global market (Styles and Wilkinson, 2012). 6.0 Expansion Strategies in India The perfume shop is implementing various strategies for entering India and getting established in the market. First strategy is partnership with Indian global company and secondly establishing a brand presence with high value. the joint venture strategy will provide the perfume shop with opportunity to gain new capacity and expertise and allows the company to enter the related businesses as well as the new geographic areas and learn new developments in technology (Budde-Sung, 2011). Joint venture will give the company access to more and more resources, which includes workforce in the form of specialized staff and technology. The risk factor will get shared with the venture partner, which is Westside. This joint venture can be flexible as well, if it includes limitation in the life span and coverage of the part done by the company, which limits the degree of commitment and the exposure of business, offering an innovative way of exiting from the non-core businesses. Company can gradual ly separate the business from the rest of the organization and eventually also sell it to the other company involved in the joint venture (Cavusgil and Cavusgil, 2012). The business expansion by The perfume shop will reap huge benefits for the company. The company will have an expanded customer base, which will raise huge financial benefits for the firm. Expansion gives access to larger talent pool as it will give greater access to qualified professionals, skilled workforce. The technological advancements and updates is easily accessible as well. Creating a brand presence will add value to the product, giving it an edge in the global competitive market. As said by Casillas and Acedo, 2013), brand awareness is indirectly related to the raising of return on investment as the ultimate motive of profit maximization will be achieved by the company. 7.0 Analysis of the study Indian retail industry is developing in a full pace with the entry of numerous international luxury brands. Statistically India has been ranked as the most brand conscious country after Hong Kong and Paris. Indias total retail market is estimated to be $160 billion which covers more than 8 million consumers. Among them more than 50% of the consumers prefer to shop from the luxury brand segment of the retail outlet. Westside is one of the leading premium retail brands which have gained high consumer preference over the years. The perfume shop in association with Westside has huge scope of profitable expansion in India not only for the brand value of Westside but also due to the appropriate implementation of global marketing strategy (Arndt et al. 2012). The analysis of the business environment, both internal and external indicates towards the areas of concentration and the advantages that the company has got over the competitive brands. Joint venture with Myntra made the scope of merc handise availability and directly contact with the buyers. The favorable market situation in India calls for market entries by foreign companies and invest in its luxury goods market. With the current situation, the retail industry seems to develop rapidly which might indicate, that switching to a franchising system would not be a bad approach. 8.0 Recommendations Networking for trusted resources is important, which involves the main objective of creating brand awareness.Socializing site and websites known to population are more dependable modes of networking in the global market Overcoming the language and cultural barriers is very crucial, as business cannot be run in absence of good communication flow. India offers a variety in languages and cultures; however the majority of the population is aware of the globally spoken language English A robust risk management strategy should be implemented for a more diverse international footprint and greater autonomy. A robust risk system will provide early warning of problems on the periphery of the company, which will give more time for reaction. Gradually the transition should be made from investment to profitability by The perfume shop. This can be achieved by focusing on the process, considering the derived economy of scale and detailed tax planning The internal environment of the organization plays a vital role in making a successful establishment. The internal working and operation will decide the efficiency in the performance of The perfume shop in the initial phases of setting up and will continue till the company operates in India. The perfume shop should choose very carefully the strategies which they already have and among them what all can be applied in the new country. Analyzing the external environment of business well will give a clear view on the various factors that might affect the business or will help in better brand awareness in India. The perfume shop should rethink its organizational design for getting a superior local autonomy. Leveraging the global resources will enhance the required expertise for making the venture a success 9.0 Conclusion The study gives me a clear understanding of the various international marketing concepts and strategies. The expansion by The perfume shop in India demands many strategic approaches which would beneficial in creating foothold by the company. The report enhances my knowledge on the concept of joint ventures and the reason of this strategy being chosen by majority of the luxury brands while investing in the Indian retail industry. I have understood the importance of creating a brand image and increasing brand image in the target global market and how it is connected to financial and strategic benefit of The perfume shop. The internationalization process by the firm elaborates the various other ways of expansion in host countries. Due to the study I also got an insight of the Indian retail industry and luxury consumer product users. The statistical data clearly indicates that the decision by The perfume shop to expand in India will give it huge opportunities and benefits. References Arndt, C., Buch, C. and Mattes, A. (2012). Disentangling barriers to internationalization. Canadian Journal of Economics/Revue canadienne d'conomique, 45(1), pp.41-63. Budde-Sung, A. (2011). The increasing internationalization of the international business classroom: Cultural and generational considerations. Business Horizons, 54(4), pp.365-373. Casillas, J. C., and Acedo, F. J. (2013). Speed in the internationalization process of the firm.International Journal of Management Reviews,15(1), 15-29. Cavusgil, S. T., and Cavusgil, E. (2012). Reflections on international marketing: destructive regeneration and multinational firms.Journal of the Academy of Marketing Science,40(2), 202-217. Styles, C., and Wilkinson, I. F. (2012). An opportunity-based view of rapid internationalization.Journal of International Marketing,20(1), 74-102. Chikweche, T. (2013). Revisiting the Business Environment at the Bottom of the Pyramid (BOP)From Theoretical Considerations to Practical Realities. Journal of Global Marketing, 26(5), pp.239-257. Doyle, C. (2011). A dictionary of marketing. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Eckman, M., Sakarya, S., Hyllegard, K., Borja, M. A. G., and Descals, A. M. (2015). Consumer receptiveness to international retail expansion: a cross-cultural study of perceptions of social and economic influence of foreign retailers.The International Review of Retail, Distribution and Consumer Research, (ahead-of-print), 1-16. Granleese, J. (2014, June). Cross-Cultural Differences in European and Asian Men and Womens Consumption of Fragrance. InThe International Management Development Associations 23rd Annual World Business Congress Proceedings(pp. 323-328). Johanson, J. (2012). International Marketing and Internationalization ProcessesA Network Approach Jan Johanson and Lars GunnarMattsson University of Uppsala and Stockholm School of Economics.Research in International Marketing (RLE International Business), 234. Jolivot, A. (2008). Marketing international. Paris: Dunod. Lee, K., and Carter, S. (2011). Global marketing management.Strategic Direction,27(1). Melnyk, V., Klein, K., and Vlckner, F. (2012). The double-edged sword of foreign brand names for companies from emerging countries.Journal of Marketing,76(6), 21-37. Miller, K. W., and Mills, M. K. (2012). Probing brand luxury: A multiple lens approach.Journal of Brand Management,20(1), 41-51. Schertler, A. and Tykvov, T. (2011). Venture capital and internationalization. International Business Review, 20(4), pp.423-439. Sheth, J (2011). Wiley international encyclopedia of marketing. Chichester, West Sussex, U.K.: Wiley. Siddiqi, M. (2013). Work engagement as a reaction to work environment and customer outcome: a service marketing perspective. Journal of Global Scholars of Marketing Science, 24(1), pp.21-38. Timmor, Y. and Zif, J. (2005). A Typology of Marketing Strategies for Export. Journal of Global Marketing, 18(3-4), pp.37-78. Vos, L. (2013). Improving International Marketing Programs to Reflect Global Complexity and Risk: Curriculum Drivers and Constraints. Journal of Teaching in International Business, 24(2), pp.81-106. Yang, Z., Su, C., and Fam, K. S. (2012). Dealing with institutional distances in international marketing channels: Governance strategies that engender legitimacy and efficiency.Journal of Marketing,76(3), 41-55. Zeybek, I. (2013). LOCALITY TRANSMISSION OF GLOBAL LUXURY BRANDS: CHANEL NO:5 PERFUME COMMERCIAL AND INTERCULTURALITY. The Turkish Online Journal of Design, Art and Communication, 3(4), pp.12-19. Fafai.org, (2015). FAFAI Fragrance Flavour Association of India. [online] Available at: https://www.fafai.org/publications.php [Accessed 5 May 2015]. Ibef.org, (2015). Retail Industry in India, Retail Sector In India, Indian Retail Industry. [online] Available at: https://www.ibef.org/industry/retail-india.aspx [Accessed 5 May 2015]. Limited, F. (2015). Perfume Fragrances Online - The Perfume Shop. [online] Theperfumeshop.com. Available at: https://www.theperfumeshop.com [Accessed 5 May 2015].

Environmental Impacts of Nuclear Material

Introduction The debate on exploration and utilization of nuclear material revolves around safety concerns, especially on what it portends to humans, plants, animals and the environment upon exposure to radioactive elements. Proponents as well as opponents are sharply divided on socioeconomic as well as environmental sustainability and suitability of nuclear programs.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Environmental Impacts of Nuclear Material specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Ironically, both sides of this debate agree that nuclear programs create significant safety risks to users as well as to the natural environment. However, proponents argue that opposing the utilization of nuclear materials is shortsighted since this is an act of utility. There are numerous benefits not only to countries that invest in nuclear programs but also to the entire global community. For instance the International Atomic Energy Agency, IAEA argues that establishing nuclear programs requires massive funding. However these costs can be recouped on the long term from money saved from foregoing other expensive sources of energy. Additionally, proponents argue that nuclear programs have long term socioeconomic and environmental benefits since nuclear energy reduces greenhouse emissions. As such, these programs are in support of global initiatives towards the reduction of greenhouse emissions. Additionally, IAEA argues that nuclear power is relatively cheaper compared to other sources of energy. Thus, in nuclear programs, countries have access to cheaper and sustainable sources of energy, which enhances economic growth and development (International Energy Agency 4 to 8). While the hotly contested debate on the usability, viability and sustainability of nuclear programs ranges on, industry players tend to agree with IAEA. This has resulted to a series of agreements, popularly referred to as Nuclear Cooperation Agreements NCAs, being signed to facilitate sharing of knowledge on the utilization of nuclear resources to promote peaceful coexistence among nation as well as social economic development. These agreements, proposed by The US President Dwight Eisenhower while addressing theUN General Assembly in 1953, ushered in the atomic age. These treaties are aimed at promoting the use of nuclear materials for the attainment of global peace, social economic prosperity of nations as well as for environmental sustainability (Fuhrmann 7). The International Energy Agency claims that the use of nuclear power dropped by about 1.8% towards the year 2010 (International Energy Agency 5 to 6). Regardless of this, Fuhrmann argues that there is a significant increase in the number of NCAs signed over the same period (8).Advertising Looking for research paper on environmental studies? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More For instance, France is among the s tates that have signed numerous NCAs with countries such as Libya and UAE, to produce nuclear power. Such agreements are intended to mitigate the effects of energy shortages resulting from the increase in prices of crude oil. Additionally, these countries intend to use NCA programs as measures to curb global warming (Fuhrmann 7). NCAs are designed to promote peaceful cooperation in sharing nuclear resources. However, there are concerns that NCAs leads to proliferation of nuclear weapons. Opponents of NCAs argue that proliferation of nuclear weapons emanates from the demand side of the demand-supply mechanism, rather than from a country’s capacity and capability to produce these weapons. As such, the supply side is usually compelled to meet the requirements of the demand side, motivated by financial benefits. Regardless of this, those who support nuclear programs argue that most of NCA programs are innocuous as they are designed to offer assistance to countries with weaker tec hnical abilities to utilize nuclear resources (Fuhrmann 7). Such an approach is however, wrong because nuclear resources can be used for other purposes other than production of energy. The risk of proliferation cannot be dissociated from NCA programs since, by receiving technical assistance, countries increase their capacity and ability to utilize nuclear resources for functions other than generation of energy. As such, the risk of proliferation of nuclear weapons exists alongside existing NCAs (Sagan 58). Arguments on the threat posed by nuclear programs are not purely theoretical. There is sufficient evidence to prove that sharing knowledge on how to utilize nuclear resources increases the risks of nuclear calamities. For instance, recent findings from countries such as South Africa, Pakistan and India indicates that there is an increase in hazardous activities, especially proliferation of nuclear weapons after the introduction of US backed NAC programs (Fuhrmann 15). These three countries are some of the practical examples which portray risks outlined by Fuhrmann, and indicate that the risks and challenges emanating from exploitation of nuclear materials cannot be ignored.Advertising We will write a custom research paper sample on Environmental Impacts of Nuclear Material specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More The focus on proliferation of nuclear weapons in the preceding section describes facts from existing studies and is intended to highlight salient risks caused by nuclear programs. This paper focuses on environmental risks posed by nuclear programs. Therefore, the following questions seem relevant for this paper: what are the environmental effects caused by nuclear programs? To what extent is the environment affected by effects of nuclear activities? In light of the findings highlighted above, it is imperative to acknowledge that nuclear programs have multiple effects, both positive and negative, on the e nvironment, the global economy as well as social set up of affected communities. As indicated earlier, risks posed by nuclear programs ought not to be ignored. Therefore, it seems relevant to hypothesize that despite assured benefits, there are serious environmental effects emanating from nuclear programs. To defend this assertion, the theoretical underpinnings as well as supporting evidence are outlined in the sections that follow. The interaction of nuclear material with the environment: causes This section begins by explaining the context within which the term environment is used. In his research paper, Fuhrmann repeatedly uses the term ‘security environment’ in relation to international peace and security. In his paper, Fuhrmann uses the term environment to refer to all variables that determine peaceful utilization of nuclear resources for mutual benefit. However, in this research paper, the term environment refers to all components of nature including atmospheric e lements as well as the biosphere. Having stated this, it is imperative to explain how nuclear materials cause environmental harm. In this case, the section begins by explaining ways through which radioactive material interacts with the environment. During the process of nuclear power production, it is almost impossible to prevent the release of radioactive material into the environment. This is due to the fact that the production of nuclear power involves the release of radionuclides into the environment during the front and the back end processes. Radionuclides are released in form of gases and liquids. To prevent environmental damages from the said radionuclides, nuclear power generators employ a control system referred to as Dose Limitation Control. The system is designed such that it optimizes the protection of the environment around a nuclear power plant, human beings and animals living nearby.Advertising Looking for research paper on environmental studies? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Currently, there exist stringent safety measures that ensure dose release elements are maintained at slightly over one thousandth of the standards limits. Regardless of these safety measures, there is a critical element of routine release that requires further attention. Studies reveal that there are three potentially harmful radionuclides released during this process. These are 3H, 85Kr and 15C, and are released into the environment either as gasses or liquids (Paschoa 1, 2). Therefore one of the major interaction methods involves dose control emissions. Other than interactions emanating from dose control emissions, there are potential environmental hazards associated with nuclear accidents. Accidents can either occur during the process of production, negligence, technical failure, equipment failure or as a result of a natural calamity such as an earthquake. To minimize the threat of possible accidents, designers of nuclear power plants conduct extensive surveys on intended sites o f construction to determine stability and suitability. These surveys also include the surrounding environment, the people living around the area and orography. Data from such surveys is used to determine possible effects on the surrounding environment in the event of an accident (Paschoa 3). Measures to prevent the occurrence of accidents are not however, 100 % effective. Numerous accidents have occurred in the last 40 years. These accidents casts doubt on safety measures undertaken by nuclear power producers and heighten the fears of serous environmental risks. In addition to these, the extraction of nuclear materials emits significant amounts of greenhouse gasses such as CO2. Moreover, disposal of radioactive waste is suspected to have negative effects on the environment. As reported by World Information Transfer, an organization that largely lobbies for sharing of information on safety issues regarding handling of nuclear materials, nuclear accidents occur as a result of differen t causes (4). However, the turning point on nuclear disaster management was the Chernobyl nuclear accident. The Chernobyl disaster is attributed to the combination of engineering deficiencies and poor operational conditions within the nuclear reactors. This led to an uncontrollable power surge. The subsequent nuclear meltdown culminated in a series of events which released radioactive material into the surrounding environment (GreenFacts n.pgn; World Information Transfer 2). While the Chernobyl disaster resulted from preventable human errors, the Fukushima nuclear accident resulted from an earthquake, which experts termed as unpredictable and unpreventable (World Information Transfer 2). Regardless of the cause of nuclear accidents, the effects of such accident are disastrous. Environmental impacts of radioactive materials In the previous section, attempts are made to provide the theoretical underpinnings on ways through which exploitation of nuclear material leads to release of rad ionuclides into the environment. In light of these findings, it is imperative to highlight the possible effects on the environment before analyzing them Vis a Vis existing cases. As explained earlier, radionuclides are released in form of gases and liquids and pose significant threat to the natural environment, which includes the atmosphere and the biosphere. These effects are outlined as follows. As a result of nuclear accidents, radioactive materials such as Iodine are released into the atmosphere. Radioiodine is readily absorbed by plants and animals. Additionally, Caesium134 caesium137 are readily absorbed by grazing animals. Moreover, studies conducted indicate that wild plants such as berries, mushrooms as well as edible wild animals are capable of absorbing these radioactive elements. As such people who consume products from contaminated animals and plants face the risk of contamination. Further studies reveal that consumption of contaminated foodstuffs causes cancer and othe r incurable ailments such as leukemia and lymphoma (Baker and Hoel 358). Furthermore, nuclear scientists have had concerns on the impacts of radioactive material on the genetic make up of organisms living contaminated areas. Therefore, there is likelihood of alteration to the genetic design of affected organisms. Additionally, there are possibilities of reduction in rates of reproduction by animals and plants living in affected areas. These studies further reveal that some organisms record genetic deformities. Nuclear activities also release significant elements of radioactive active material especially caesium137 and strontium90. These materials are readily absorbed by marine animals especially fish. Even though the consumption of contaminated fish poses no significant threat, it nevertheless leads to redistribution of fish and other forms of marine life (GreenFacts n.pgn; Yoshimoto 355; Sovacool 141). Having highlighted the probable effects of radioactive material on the environme nt, it is imperative to analyze these effects Vis a Vis existing cases. As explained earlier there are numerous cases where accidents led to release of radioactive elements into the environment. However, this paper will focus on two of these cases namely, the Chernobyl and the Fukushima nuclear disasters. The choice of these two is influenced by the significance with which these two cases have on the politics of nuclear safety management. Fukushima nuclear disaster: environmental effects According to the World Information Transfer, the full extent of the Fukushima nuclear disaster on the environment cannot be ascertained (2). However, there are significant amounts of radioactive materials found in soils, air and water within the 30 kilometer radius of the affected area. For instance soil samples taken from this area were found to have significant amounts of radioactive isotopes of Cesium, Strontium and Peritoneum. As a result, the government banned agricultural activities around thi s area, especially rice farming since these isotopes are easily absorbed by rice plants. Additionally, substantive amounts of radioactive elements were found to contaminate pastures fed to cows reared for beef and milk. As such, the government of Japan banned the consumption of dairy products manufactured from cows reared in this region. It is imperative to note that initially, no significant amount of radioactive elements was found on water bodies in Fukushima. However, tests conducted later on the sewage systems as well as sea water provided evidence of contamination. Additionally, marine life seems not to have been significantly affected by radioactivity. However, some species of fish were found to be contaminated with trace elements of radioactive elements. Scientists assert that contamination in fish seems to have occurred from trace elements of Cesium, Strontium and Peritoneum found in soils samples from the Miyagi seabed and planktons found in nearby water bodies. The fish ho wever, pose no threat to human life. Radioactive cesium was also found to contaminate forest species, with male flowers from cedar trees returning positive results (JAIF 1 to 3). Numerous tests conducted by Japan Industrial Atomic Forum, JAIF on environmental effects reveal an increase in the level of radiological activity in sea life (JAIF 2). These results are supported by separate tests conducted by IRSN, which indicate that the radioactivity is on its juvenile stage and is likely to increase in the coming years. Thus there is need to have constant tests to verify this alarming trend (IRSN 12). Tests conducted on marine animals such as Japanese mackerel, the Japanese eel fish anchovies and shellfish taken from contaminated areas reveal an increasing level of Iodine 131 as well as Caesium 134 and 137. This however, can be attributed to sustained consumption of contaminated zooplanktons and phytoplankton (IRSN 12, 13). Currently, there is evidence indicating that the Fukushima disa ster led to contamination of the environment with radioactive elements. Latest tests indicate that the level of radioactive materials is 25 times above the standard requirements. This affects human activities, with the agriculture industry suffering the most. Agricultural products such as rice, milk and tea were found to be contaminated with significant amounts of radioactive elements and therefore significantly pose health risks to consumers. Currently, it is impossible to measure the exact impacts on people, animals and plants. However, scientists assert that the long term effects of Fukushima tragedy can be compared to effects of the Chernobyl disaster (Fackler 6). Chernobyl nuclear disaster Despite the fact that the Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster occurred 25 years ago, its effects will be felt for years to come. Critics of nuclear programs argue that the social economic as well as political cost incurred from such disasters is not justifiable. Proponents argue that, unlike the Fukus hima nuclear disaster, Chernobyl occurred as a result of human error and could have been avoided. As such, by improving safety standards, nations can share nuclear resources without incurring such costs (Sovacool 141). Nevertheless, Chernobyl disaster has multiple effects on the environment. These are enumerated below. The Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster led to irreversible defects on the biosphere, including on human beings, animals as well as on plants. 20 years after Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster, scientists have found incredible evidence linking the recurrence of numerous medical conditions in people living near or around the affected areas to radioactive materials released during the accident. In 2006, extensive studies on the recurrence of thyroid cancer amongst the residents living near Chernobyl traced the condition to radioactive isotopes released after the accident (IAEA 24 to 28). Additionally, these studies concludes that other conditions such as thyroid diseases as well as post traumatic stress are traceable to radionuclides released after the accident (World Information Transfer 3). Recent tests link Chernobyl nuclear disaster to reproductive deficiencies in coniferous plants as well as genetic defects in the somatic and germ cells of animals living in the affected area. While these are considered as long term effects, it is important to note that immediately after the accident, more that 200 workers on duty received â€Å"very high doses of radioactive matter resulting to radiation sickness† (World Information Transfer 21). The effects of Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster on the biosphere are considered secondary. Nuclear scientists argue that the primary effect is widespread surface deposits. For ten days after the accident, the damaged nuclear plant deposited vast amounts of radioactive gases and liquids into the atmosphere. A report conducted by IAEA confirms that isotopes of iodine 131, Caesium 137, Stronium 90, Americium241 as well as Plutonium as some of the major radionuclides deposited into the environment. These isotopes were released into an area measuring about 200 000 Sq Kms, spreading over three countries namely Belarussia, Russia and Ukraine. Some of these isotopes did not however, have long lasting effects on the environment as they decayed quickly as a result of their short-half lives. However, radioactive elements such as Caesium 137, Stronium 90, and Americium241 remain relatively high. Scientists and environmental experts are concerned that Caesium 137, especially is of considerable long term significance due to the level of toxicity as well as extended half-life (IAEA 21). Surface radionuclides deposits have significant effects on the environment. IAEA reports that within a few months after the accident, plants and animals within 100 kilometer radius interacted with radioactive material. While animals were not directly affected by these deposits, scientists were concerned about the long term effects of radionuc lides contamination in plants. These fears were confirmed when tests conducted on plants for caesium137 and Caesium 134 returned positive results. The occurrence of Radioactive Iodine 131 was however, found to diminish because of its short-half life. Consumption of contaminated fodder by livestock led to subsequent contamination of dairy products, and was attributed to occurrence of thyroid cancer young among children in Belarussia, Russia and Ukraine (IAEA 21 to 24). Scientists asserted that contamination of agricultural products occurred as a result of direct contact with contaminated water and air. Further tests revealed that much of the radioactive contamination in plants emanates from uptake of radioactive substances found in contaminated soils. It is evident that contaminated soils considerably impacted plants. Forests and wildlife were similarly affected as result of uptake of radionuclides from soils. Radiocaesium was prevalently found to exist within forest ecosystems, with radioactive levels remaining relatively constant for the last 20 years. Cedar trees, wild mushrooms as well as wild berries were found to be rich in Caesium 137. High levels of Caesium 137are not expected to reduce in the coming decades. This implies that for along time, forests will continue to dominate radiological exposure in large parts of Belarussia, Ukraine and Russia. Other than wild plants, wild animals have been contaminated with radiocaesium. Some species of wild animals such as reindeers were found to take in radiocaesium from lichens. Reindeer is significant beef supplement to people living around Chernobyl. As such, consumption of meat from reindeer exposes consumers to risks associated with radioactive material (IAEA 25). Immediately after the accident, there were concerns that the water system around Chernobyl would significantly be contaminated. Preliminary tests conducted on primary water sources such as lakes and rivers showed that there were significant amounts o f Iodine 131. Concerns over the safety of drinking water were confirmed when samples taken from Kyiv Reservoir indicated presence of this radionuclide. However, subsequent tests revealed diminishing levels of radioactivity attributed to quick natural decay and the absorption by bedrock and river bed soils. This however posed a new challenge to aquatic life, which depends on phytoplankton and zooplanktons. Aquatic plants readily absorb these radionuclides. As such, fishes, which largely consume these plants, were in danger of contamination. Tests conducted on fish revealed that the levels of contamination increased with time. Scientist attributed this to sustained consumption of plants contaminated with Stronium, Caesium and Iodine. While the accumulation of radioiodine reduced drastically due to decay, radiocaesium on the other hand consistently remained high. The effects of radiocaesium were also evident in fish species found in lakes as far as Germany. However, strontium did not p ose any threat to human beings since, unlike other radioactive elements it accumulates in non-edible parts of an organism such as bones. Scientist have noted with concern that for decades to come, water systems in Belarussia, Ukraine and Russia will significantly expose people to caesium 137 (IAEA 25, 26). Radionuclides were deposited into the air immediately after the accident. However, this did not pose any significant threat to human beings. Radionuclides tended to be concentrated in open spaces such as public parks, open lawns and public squares. The combination of wind, human activity, air moisture and rain helped to quickly dissipate radioactive material into soils and plants. Additionally, since contaminated air threatened the lives of people immediately after the accident, nearby towns were evacuated in time. Therefore, despite the fact that contaminated air posed a significant threat to people, a series of actions ensured that it did not provide radiological exposure (IAEA 22). Possible remediation It is evident that nuclear disasters such as the Chernobyl and Fukushima have serious environmental effects, which further affect human and animal life. It is therefore important to enumerate, albeit briefly, suggested remediation activities aimed at mitigating these effects. Decontamination of affected areas is one of the primary remediation exercises. Even though plagued by political and logistical problems, decontamination of affected areas realized notable success after the Chernobyl accident. Scientists suggested that pastures from affected areas be omitted from cattle diet. This effort however, was an act in futility as it was implemented too late as contaminated fodder had already been fed to cows. The biggest threat occurred as a result of contaminated soils. As such, scientists involved in Chernobyl and Fukushima disaster management suggested treatment of contaminated soils. The sustainability of such treatment programs has however been affected by economic constraints, especially in economically weak Belarussia. In addition there are restrictions on hunting, farming and harvesting of wild fruits from affected areas. This is aimed at reducing exposure to contaminated materials (IAEA 28; JAIF 2). Conclusion The need to explore alternative and environmentally friendly sources of power has led to the exploration of the possibility of utilizing radioactive material as a source of sustainable energy. This is aimed at meeting the ever increasing demand for renewable energy and has resulted to the development of various nuclear programs, especially by developed countries. It is imperative to note that nuclear power offers sustainable and cost effective sources of energy that is likely to spur global economic growth. However, in its inception stage, scientist noted that nuclear programs had inherent risks to the environment as well as to human beings and animals. The initial risks and challenges seemed to have been the proliferation of nuclear weapons, especially due to the fact that the demand for such weapons is not necessarily necessitated by a country’s nuclear capacity. In light of the recent events, the risk of proliferation seems to be overtaken by the dangers of nuclear accidents. There are several nuclear accidents that have occurred since the rise of the atomic age. Two of these, Chernobyl and Fukushima nuclear disasters have had serious long term environmental as well as health related effects. Chernobyl and Fukushima disasters occurred as a result human errors and natural calamities respectively. Regardless of the previously accrued benefits, the after effects of these two disasters are almost similar and surpass any gains made before the accidents occurred. The sustainability of such projects is thus highly questionable. According to Fackler (6) there is need to evaluate the real cost of nuclear as a source of energy. Fackler argues that proponents of nuclear programs ought to look beyond th e economic benefits accrued from such programs to effects on the environment, on people’s health and socioeconomic consequences that arise as a result of nuclear accidents. Since majority of these consequences are irreversible, it is necessary to abandon nuclear programs, and explore less risky energy sources. Fackler’s assertion seems to be supported by IAEA findings on the effects of Chernobyl nuclear disaster, which stipulate that people, animals and plants suffered irreversible health and genetic alterations as a result of exposure to radioactive materials. Additionally, IAEA reports notable reproductive deficiencies in some species of plants as a result to the Chernobyl accident. These effects have occurred irrespective of extensive remediation efforts. This further leads to questions on the impacts of future generations, especially since exposure to radioactive material resulted to genetic alterations. Additionally, IAEA confirms that some of the radionuclides su ch as Caesium remain radioactive for long periods, and thus environmental effects will be felt for many years to come. Moreover, questions on possible effects on the environment and people as a result of extended exposure arise. These questions are further compounded by scientific findings which state that the extent of radioactive exposure is almost impossible to ascertain. Therefore, it is possible to ascertain that the management of nuclear programs is shrouded in uncertainties, speculation and lack of creditworthy data on the social economic as well as environment implications. Due to the evidence enumerated in this paper, it is therefore necessary to conclude that there is an urgent need to rethink and restrategize the management of nuclear programs. Works Cited Baker, Peter and David Hoel. â€Å"Meta-Analysis of Standardized Incidence and Mortality Rates of Childhood Leukemia in Proximity to Nuclear Facilities†. European Journal of Cancer Care 16.4(2007) 355–363. Print Fackler, Martin. â€Å"Large Zone near Japanese Reactors to be off Limits†. The New York Times. August 21, 2011. Web.. Fuhrmann, Matthew. â€Å"Spreading Temptation Proliferation and Peaceful Nuclear Cooperation Agreements† International Security. 2009. Web. GreenFacts. Scientific Facts on the Chernobyl Nuclear Accident. 2008. Web. IAEA. Recommendations to the Governments of Belarus, the Russian Federation and Ukraine. 2008. Web.. International Energy Agency. Energy Statistics. 2007. Web.. IRSN. Impact on the Marine Environment of Radioactive Releases Following the Nuclear Accident at Fukushima Daiichi. 2011. Web.. JAIF. Environmental Impact Caused by the Nuclear Power Accident at Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station. 2011. Web.. Paschoa, Salles. The Environmental Effects of Nuclear Power Production. n.d. Web. Sagan, Scott. â€Å"Why Do States Build Nuclear Weapons? Three Models in Search of a Bomb,† International Security, 21.3 (1997) 58. Print Sovac ool, Benjamin. â€Å"Contesting the Future of Nuclear Power: A Critical Global Assessment of Atomic Energy†. World Scientific. 3.2 (2011) 141. Print World Information Transfer. â€Å"Nuclear Power: History Revisited.† Summer-Fall, 2011. Web. Yoshimoto, Yuhei. â€Å"Research on Potential Radiation Risks in areas With Nuclear Power Plants in Japan: Leukaemia and Malignant Lymphoma Mortality between 1972 and 1997 in 100 Selected Municipalities†. Journal of Radiological Protection 24.4 (2004). 343–368. Print This research paper on Environmental Impacts of Nuclear Material was written and submitted by user Catherine W. to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

An American Tragedy vs A Place in the Sun Essay Example

An American Tragedy vs A Place in the Sun Essay Example An American Tragedy vs A Place in the Sun Paper An American Tragedy vs A Place in the Sun Paper Often, movie adaptations of novels will have many variances. These inconsistencies can change major themes in the story. Such differences appear between Theodore Dressers An American Tragedy and its film adaptation, A Place in the Sun. The films title has a light-hearted and paradisiacal implication, in contrast to the novels title, which suggests hopelessness and suffering. These titles mirror the overall thematic difference in the two versions. The novel blatantly exposes the reality of American society to illustrate how the American dream is an illusion, whereas the film focuses on the consequences that result from foolishness. In An American Tragedy, Cycles downfall is caused by tragic flaws deeply ingrained in American Society. Dresser includes characters from every spectrum of social class and exposes their faults. Both Hornets Briggs and Sandra Finley feign interest in Clyde for their own benefit. Hornets is a lower class Kansas City girl who manipulates Clyde in search of material possessions. Sandra, a wealthy and beautiful woman, shows interest in Clyde to irritate Gilbert Griffith. Dresser introduces many other characters with this same self-centered attitude, such as Orville Mason, the district attorney. It looks to be the biggest and most important case in all my term in office, and if we can only clean it up satisfactorily and quickly, before things break here this fall, it made do us all some good, eh? (532). Orville does not see Cycles case as a fight for Justice, but an easy win for his political standing. Dresser includes these details to highlight the harsh intentions and motivations of Americans. This consistency in motive emphasizes the theme that Americans have a toxic obsession with personal gain that drives many individuals, regardless of class. Clyde is manipulated and his mind is irrupted by people trying to achieve what they think is the American dream, when in reality there is no such thing. Clyde becomes obsessed with being on top both economically and socially, driving him to commit the murder that ultimately leads to his death. In A Place in the Sun, George (Clyde) is led to committing murder not by his obsession with obtaining the American dream, but by his infatuation with Angela (Sandra). The movie focuses less on society and more on the individual. Georges intention to murder Alice (Roberta) to be with Angela exposes his own selfishness, UT his actions are Justified by love. The film skips the first part of the novel, which expands on why Clyde desires to achieve the American Dream. Because of this omission, the theme of the story is changed. Instead of being pulled to the top by greed, the film suggests that George is motivated by love. Georges foolishness in dealing with his two relationships results in Lices accidental drowning. This presents the theme that love can lead to good as well as evil. George is not corrupted by society, (as in the novel), but wrapped up in a situation caused by his own, individual folly. The title of the film suggests this same theme. George is introduced to this place in the sun of luxury, wealth and beautiful women, but his mistakes lead him in another direction. The differing themes between the novel and the film are the novels idea of the tragedy of American society and the films focus on individual mistakes. Dresser portrays characters as greedy and manipulative, while the film portrays them as foolishly in love. The reasons behind this inconsistency may more light-hearted because its purpose is more to entertain, while the novel may be meant to be intellectually profound.

Brand Management and Research Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Brand Management and Research - Coursework Example However, brand image becomes important both in the context of the marketer and the consumer (Holt, 2002) In the case of the laptop brands like Apple, HP and Acer, the brands are influential and potentially capable of shaping up the market trends. An evaluative approach would analyse the laptop brands not only on the basis of product quality but also on the basis of the very brand image. Apple is perhaps a very strong brand in the world of laptop market. It is an innovative and capable market leader. The brand image of Apple is based on a lot of anticipation from the customers. The Apple brand actually raises expectations. Apple has been such a strong brand that the corporation ventured to make the year 2003 the year of laptops. This was stated by Steve Jobs, Apple’s CEO, in his speech at the Macworld conference, San Francisco. Aptly, the brand image of Apple inspires â€Å"technolust† and creates a stir in the market with every new release in the array of its quality pr oducts (Albritton, 2003). From the perspective of critical reflection, evaluating the laptop brand from the customer’s point of view is worthy. Apple laptops would smoothly connect on the go. The Apple laptop is compact and elegantly designed. Using it in a meeting or conference is likely to create a good impression. It has a large Multi-Touch glass trackpad on its aluminium body. The built-in iSight video camera is a technological beauty (Reinhold, 2009). Moreover, customer experience tells that it has a large display and respectable battery life (Allbritton, 2003). Overall, the brand image of Apple is innovative and adventurous. HP, on the other hand, is a brand that has an influential image as an organisation. It has a worldwide presence and a strong customer relationship management system. HP offers great after-sales support as a strong and powerful organisation. The brand has top level support and formidable investment of resources. As a laptop brand, it is backed with a mechanism of design and redesign which is apt to adjust in the rapidly changing laptop markets. The group dynamics at HP are productive and help it to survive as an organisation in fierce competition (Zell, 1997). The brand image of HP is rather dependable and the company is always ready to assist its customers. It can be rightly called an international giant in the world of information technology. With a wide range of other electronic products, HP has a reliable brand image in the laptop markets too. The company has shown phenomenal growth throughout its history. It is relatively an older international brand that started its operations in the year 1938. The brand image of HP offers a blend of strong organisation, considerable business experience and competent customer support (Pham-Gia, 2009). Companies like BenQ and Acer are known for designing and making several ICT products for other companies. The brand image of Acer is thus not as impressive as that of Apple and HP. Still, Ac er is a known name in the laptop markets. It has established a respectable brand image and it is one of the largest brands of monitors and laptops in Europe (Martin, 2006). Acer, however, depends on low cost manufacturing bases to maintain the economy of its production lines. The company has outsourced many of its manufacturing processes to Eastern Asia. As a brand, it has to depend largely on the cost-effectiveness of its products (Yu, 2007). By means of relevant

Technostructural Intervention of TRW Systems Essay

Technostructural Intervention of TRW Systems - Essay Example (Thompson, Seher, and Kotter, 1976) Ramo-Wooldridge Corporation experienced quick growth due to its ties to the â€Å"accelerating ICBM program that the air force was sponsoring. Following the win on the contract bid for the job of providing technical supervision of the ICBM program it is reported that RW gradually expanded its capability to include advance planning for future ballistic weapons systems and space technology and by providing technical advice to the Air Force.† (Thompson, Seher, and Kotter, 1976) RW was held by many to be a ‘quasi-government’ agency with some of the aerospace industry competitors resenting the opportunities presenting in the audit and examination RW conducted on their operations. RW was due to this relationship with the Air Force prohibited from competition for mainframe and assembly work for the Air Force. TRW made the decision, following the merger of 1959 with Thompson that the hardware ban was too great a liability and moved to f ree the Systems Group from its limiting relationship with the Air Force. (Thompson, Seher, and Kotter, 1976, paraphrased) Because of the value of the services provided by RW to the Air Force a solution was created calling for a non-profit organization to be created by the Air Force and specifically the Aerospace Corporation. This Corporation is reported to have assumed the â€Å"advance planning and broad technical assistance† formerly provided by the Systems Group. ... he process pricing and billing was ‘cost-plus-fixed-fee-basis† and that changed to what is known as an incentive-based process in which rewards came from excellent performance, delivery dates that were specific and failures resulting in payment of penalties. It is reported that System â€Å"thrived in the new competitive arena, winning a number of important contracts.† (Thompson, Seher, and Kotter, 1976) II. Background In 1963 TRW is described being different systems in a matrix organization with functional divisions and the offices for program management (using project interchangeably with program). (paraphrased) TRW Systems Group was headed by the Director, and Sub-headed by the Florida, Houston, San Bernadino, and Washington Operations all of which comprised one subhead of the organization joined by the other subhead being that of the Administration. Team building is a process that was used in the earlier days of TRW. The first team-building meeting was held â⠂¬Å"offsite† and involved a team development session, which reported that the group â€Å"improved its working relationships with manufacturing. The success of this experiment became well known throughout the company.† (Davies-Williams, nd) The matrix of TRW is such that â€Å"any one man is a member of many systems simultaneously. He has interfaces with many different groups. In addition, he is continuously moving from one team to another, so they need team development to get the teams off to a fast start.† (Davies-Williams, nd) The process used at TRW Systems is one that can be easily disseminated in the interchange of company representatives after a planning session in which they all express views that differentiate the concerns and consideration of the organization when it enters into a project or process