Saturday, December 28, 2019

The Poetry of Elizabeth Bishop, and How it Connects to Her...

Elizabeth Bishop’s poetry has many characteristics that make it appealing. Her poetry links much with her life; a depressing but interesting one, which saw a troubled childhood, many countries and many awards for her poetry. Her celebrations of the ordinary are another appealing characteristic; an unusual yet original quality. Bishop’s poems have a unique style, with a fine combination of vivid imagery and concrete intense language. In addition to this we see detailed descriptions of the exotic and familiar. The poems themselves, while containing this style constantly, vary in poetic form – this is a welcome change instead of the monotonous form of poetry of other poets on the Leaving Certificate course. Finally, her range of themes adds†¦show more content†¦There is no mother present in the poem, but we are constantly reminded of the need for one. The tone of the narrator is maternal as she begins remarking of the place â€Å"Oh, but it is dirty!† and later â€Å"Be careful with that match!† The concluding line that â€Å"Somebody loves us all† is an ironic lament that while someone even loves the father wearing â€Å"a dirty,/ oil-soaked monkey suit† and the â€Å"greasy sons†, Bishop has no parents to love her. Bishop had not just to deal with trouble in her personal life, but also the times that she lived in. In The Armadillo she refers to the time of the Cold War, where she doubts the human capacity to deal with unknown capacities. The insurmountable armadillo represents the humans, whom are characterized as brave and unbeatable. However when catastrophe strikes, the armadillo â€Å"left the scene,/ rose-flecked, head down, tail down,†. Likewise the humans around Bishop do not attempt to stop the Cold War, only build bomb-shelters to protect themselves. However they are shown in their true form in the concluding stanza, weak against events they cannot control: â€Å"Oh falling fire an d piercing cry/ and panic, and a weak mailed fist/ clenched ignorant against the sky!† Bishop returns to her own personal problems in In the Waiting Room. Again the poem contains striking similarities to Bishop. There is no mention of parents,Show MoreRelatedElizabeth Bishop s One Art Style Analysis1275 Words   |  6 PagesElizabeth Bishop’s â€Å"One Art† Style Analysis In the villanelle â€Å"One Art† Elizabeth Bishop seems to take a very relaxed tone over a subject that many writers would deem a more emotional topic. Slowly her true frustrations are brought to light as the inanimate objects she lists switch from everyday things to examples that have more severity. Bishop’s style of using her works to subtly expose her own personal feeling is very present through the poem. Bishop’s poem â€Å"One Art,† although not one of herRead MoreLife Experiences And Hardships Through Figurative Language1849 Words   |  8 Pageswriting to show different life experiences and hardships through figurative language or portraying alternative themes. These commonly include, darkness versus light, the coming of age, love, death, isolation and much more. With the combination of symbols and metaphors, authors use poetry to explore the deeper meanings and connections of the world. The twentieth-century poet, Elizabeth Bishop used poetry to prove her connections with the world, while also identifying her own personality and experiencesRead MorePersonal Response to the Fish, Filling Station and the Prodigal by Elizabeth Bishop1276 Words   |  6 PagesElizabeth Bishop is a woman full of memories and extraordinary stories to tell about her travels. Her poetry is based on everyday experiences. However, the way Bishop observes and meditates on these experiences makes them extraordinary, unique and fascinating experiences. The poetry of Bishop reveals a fascination with places and things that would not ordinarily be considered beautiful or poetic. In The Fish for example, she describes The Fish in what I think is a horrifying way with grotesqueRead MoreAnalysis the Use of Stream of Consciousness in Mrs Dalloway8784 Words   |  36 PagesVirginia Woolf has made important contributions to the development of the technique of stream of consciousness by confirming her own original literary views through the design of a uniqu e structure of stream of consciousness in one of her masterpieces—Mrs. Dalloway. Virginia Woolf constantly breaks through the tradition and works hard for the innovation throughout her life. Mrs. Dalloway expresses the subjective truth in the simple plot and the time-space of leap and shows the aspect different fromRead MoreStephen P. Robbins Timothy A. Judge (2011) Organizational Behaviour 15th Edition New Jersey: Prentice Hall393164 Words   |  1573 PagesChange 20 †¢ Coping with â€Å"Temporariness† 20 †¢ Working in Networked Organizations 20 †¢ Helping Employees Balance Work–Life Conflicts 21 †¢ Creating a Positive Work Environment 22 †¢ Improving Ethical Behavior 22 Coming Attractions: Developing an OB Model 23 An Overview 23 †¢ Inputs 24 †¢ Processes 25 †¢ Outcomes 25 Summary and Implications for Managers 30 S A L Self-Assessment Library How Much Do I Know About Organizational Behavior? 4 Myth or Science? â€Å"Most Acts of Workplace Bullying Are Men AttackingRead MoreLogical Reasoning189930 Words   |  760 Pagesrelevancy should attract readers. Stanley Baronett. Jr., University of Nevada Las Vegas Far too many authors of contemporary texts in informal logic – keeping an eye on the sorts of arguments found in books on formal logic – forget, or underplay, how much of our daily reasoning is concerned not with arguments leading to truth-valued conclusions but with making choices, assessing reasons, seeking advice, etc. Dowden gets the balance and the emphasis right. Norman Swartz, Simon Fraser University Read MoreRastafarian79520 Words   |  319 Pagesto culture bearers / Ennis Barrington Edmonds. p. cm. Includes bibliographical references and index. ISBN 0-19-513376-5 1. Rastafari movement. 2. Jamaica—Religious life and customs. I. Title. BL2532.R37 E36 2002 299†².676—dc21 2002074897 v To Donnaree, my wife, and Donnisa, my daughter, the two persons around whom my life revolves; and to the ancestors whose struggles have enabled us to survive and thrive This page intentionally left blank Foreword One of the most useful things

Friday, December 20, 2019

Analysis of Article I´d Sell YOu Sucide Pop Music and...

Now a days, we are used to shocking lyrics and eye catching looks. It seems that every artist now is fighting to be so different that everyone is drawn to them. It was not always like this. In the late nineties and early two-thousands, most artists tried to fit in with the other blonde, processed pop stars that the industry was spitting out. When there was an artist who was not always happy and did sing about PG rated topics, they were blamed for what was wrong with the world, especially teenagers. In his article ‘I’d Sell You Suicide: Pop Music and Moral Panic in the Age of Marilyn Manson†, Robert Wright delves into and debunks claims that rock music, especially that of Marilyn Manson, is a main cause for teenage suicide. The title of†¦show more content†¦Manson talked about hate, sadness, God, and suicide/self loathing. Parents were not ready to deal with the reality that their teenagers felt this way. This brings us to the second meaning of the phrase which is how it alludes to how the times were changing. Manson ushered in entertainers who adopted outrageous looks and scandalous lyrics to stand out and gain fame. Parents were not ready for new pop music which emphasized parting and sex. All together the title means that America blamed Marilyn Manson for the popularization of suicide and for the lives of the adolescents who did commit suicide. The title explains what the author will be discussing and shows that it a very complex issue. It is not just about Manson’s outrageous look or up front lyrics that were not censored. It is a mixture of both these things and others. The title gets us ready for an intelligent and complex argument. In the article Robert Wright explores the claim t hat music can cause a person to commit suicide or provide an opportunity for the copycat syndrome, which is when teenagers imitate the suicides of other. Tragedies like Columbine, Colorado have influenced people to blame rock music for teenage suicides. Wright proves that there can is no strong connection between music and suicide. Common factors that lead to suicide are mobility among families, pressure to get involved in sexual relationships they may not be able to handle, pressure to be straight, and an inability

Thursday, December 12, 2019

International Business Political Economy

Question: Discuss about the International Businessfor Political Economy. Answer: Introduction Political Economy of International Trade: Australia has been transformed into a different political economy. Complex and identified ways in which the work relations are organized and how the corporate entities are integrated as a system of corporate regulations are specified by regimes of political economy. Political economy asserts the economic process that do not take place in isolation from political processes. It depicts the implications for national economic policy, concentration of wealth, economic activities and opportunity. Political economy of Australia also comprise of free market arguments, education, health, development and decline of regional economy and environmental sustainability (Wild et al., 2014). However, this area attracts significant research from various sources. Economic and Political Reasons Employing Barriers to Trade: Government of Australia has several policies seeking to develop and assist Australian business engaged in international trade. Regulations exists for consumers protection, domestic industries and environment from importing goods from overseas that are injurious. Barrier to trade is the restrictions imposed by government on flow of goods and services. Some of the barriers to Australian export of goods remain crucial are in the areas of agricultural products and processed product. There has been a sudden change in the use of specific rates and mixed tariffs that increases the cost of importing goods in some of the regional markets. These tariffs sometimes negatively influence the competitiveness of low cost and efficient producers. Policy concerning restrictions on trade lays greater emphasis on aid as a catalyst for economic growth that can be sustained. Aid for trade investment help in achieving other development activities and this include health, disability, empowerment of women and financial inclusion. Some of the trade remedies are triggered in response to different circumstances as it may cause material injury to domestic industry. Barriers strategy such as subsidies agreement regulates the action that the countries has taken for counte ring the effects of subsidies. Goods imported in Australia requires classification and the process of declaring imports is based upon self-assessment by importers. Australian customs require declarations for enforcing restrictions on import. As a part of activities, businesses in Australia are able to import goods from overseas. They need to be aware of permits, taxes, duties, and treatment applying to imported goods. Australian department of Border protection and immigration should seize imports not meeting the above-mentioned requirement (Cavusgil et al., 2014). This is done to avoid any political conflict among the businesses. Surge of imports might cause serious material injury to domestic injury and the government takes safeguard action in this regard. Reference: Cavusgil, S. T., Knight, G., Riesenberger, J. R., Rammal, H. G., Rose, E. L. (2014).International business. Pearson Australia. Wild, J., Wild, K. L., Han, J. C. (2014).International business. Pearson Education Limited.

Wednesday, December 4, 2019

Construction Technology Equipment and Materials

Question: Discuss about theConstruction Technology for Equipment and Materials. Answer: Introuduction A construction technology activity is defined as a research activity where the construction equipment and materials, coupled with application of machine learning and knowledge based systems are applied to meet different needs of the construction. In addition, the construction technologies are in existence to enhance the industry through the safety factors, enhancing the economical natures of the industry and also enhance the aesthetics (Knaack, Klein, Bilow, Auer, 2014). The changes in the construction industry are all attributed to the changes in technology in the aim to achieve one factor or the other. For instance, the change of the building from the use of stones and mud to the use of timber, stones, concrete, metal among other materials is all enhanced through the technological advancement. Therefore, the construction technology turns to be a great asset for the construction industry simply because it enhances the innovation and enhancement of the industry (International Confer ence on Construction Materials and Structures et al., 2014). In addition, the construction technologies are able to involve other aspects which involve the management of the construction industry. All the aspects of the construction site are able to involve one aspect or the other of the construction technology. There are different types of technologies which are applied in the construction industry. The existence of the different types of construction is able to raise the wide variety of the technologies which h can be applied on the industry (Knaack, Klein, Bilow, Auer, 2014). Some of the key types of construction in the industry include the commercial construction, domestic constructions, industrial construction, and civil construction among others. The applied technology in one part of construction may not be applied in another type of construction (International Conference on Construction Materials and Structures et al., 2014). The needs and requirements at the different construction parts are able to divide the technologies which can be used in any construction site. For instance, in domestic construction, simple construction technologies are applied in order to reduce the costs of construction and the availability of the materials for the works (Riley Cotgrave, 2014a). In addition, the cost of the projects and the timelines for their construction are key on which technologies can be applied. Moreover, as the cost of the construction projects increase, the strength and life of the construction technologies are considered. The construction technology has different roles which are able to enhance the designing and enhancing the construction of the different parts. The construction technologies range from the applications in designs to the methods of constructions as well as the materials used (Chinowsky, 2014). The development in IT is one of the major part, which is key in the construction technology. The use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) is one of the computerized methods, which are used as part of the construction technology (Riley Cotgrave, 2014a). The construction technologies are available to enhance the communication between the different personnel in construction industry. The communication between the designers and engineers is enhanced through the use of different applications of design such as BIM. Moreover, the construction technologies are key in reducing the flaws, which are found on some parts of the construction process. For instance, the use of computer-aided designing, CAD i s able to enhance the reduction of the major flaws which are found in the designing process of the construction (Li Poon, 2013). In addition, the reduction of cost through innovation of cheaper materials is usually achieved through the use of construction technologies. Moreover, the improvements of the aesthetics are the final construction process is usually enhanced through the use of different construction technologies. In addition, the innovation is a key part of the construction technology. The innovation is able to enhance the coming up with new way of performing the different activities of construction industry (Picon, 2006). The technological process in construction has been able to introduce many innovations in the field of construction. The difference between the old construction ways and new constructions ways are clear and their attributes are due to the construction technologies (Riley Cotgrave, 2014b). The timeline of the construction are key in enhancing the construction of the different parts of the construction industry. In overall, the innovation of different materials and ways of construction are able to make the construction process quick (National Center for Construction Education and Research, 2002). For instance, the use of pre-stressed concrete tendons is a key innovation, which is able to enhance the construction timeline and therefore a key construction technology in the indu stry. The innovation is able to range from the construction designing and construction process and materials are able to enhance the construction industry. One of the key innovation in the construction technology is the green construction. The green revolution is simply the use of energy saving methods and other natural environment enhancement of the construction industry (Li Poon, 2013). In the construction technology, the green industry must enhance the natural environment of prevent the spoiling of the materials and use of eco-friendly materials (National Center for Construction Education and Research, 2002). In addition, the green construction is able to enhance and follow the available regulations which help to create a save environment. The construct ion technology is therefore able to enhance the safety and ensuring that different technologies are able to enhance their safety. In addition, Leadership in Energy and Environment Design, LEED, is another key approach which is found in the construction industry (Riley Cotgrave, 2014b). This aspect is able to introduce the monitoring of the green construction level in the industry and ensure that the different aspects and requirements are met in the industry. In addition, the construction technologies are able to enhance the quality through the LEED and ensure that all checks and eco-friendly mode of construction is adhered to. Moreover, the LEED is able to introduce the proper modes of search and introduction of materials which are able to enhance the green construction industry (Davies, Macaulay, Debarro Thurston, 2014). The LEED is a key aspect of the construction technology which enhances the different aspects of monitoring and therefore enhance the balance between the different aspects of construction industry. The construction industry involves different aspects which are able to enhance the cost and env ironment friendliness of the industry in any aspects. Moreover, the construction industry is able to involve other key innovative strategies which are used in the construction industry. Other key technological aspects and techniques, which are found on the construction sites, may include Hercules single strand tensioning systems, Styrofoam Panels, Unbounded PT Slabs among other technologies. All these technologies among others are able to make up the composition of the construction technology (Davies, Macaulay, Debarro Thurston, 2014). One major common factor of all these technologies is that they consider the effects of costs and environmental friendly at different factors. They are able to ensure that the construction industry is able to achieve its best with different factors changing each evolution (Li Poon, 2013). These are key factors are essential for the developments of the industry and they ensure that they attain different innovative factors which ensure that the methods are better than the previous methods. In conclusion, the construction technology is key in ensuring that is an essential element of the construction industry. The industry has undergone various evolution stages which are connected with the construction technology (Hauptfleisch, 2014). Each evolution stage is connected with different technological advancements. Moreover, the technological advancements are able to enhance different factors which the technology must achieve. The environmental protection is one of the key factors which the construction technologies look to enhance and achieve. Eco-friendly technologies are all around the construction industry and they look to enhance and achieve a friendly environment. In addition, the construction technologies look to achieve a cost effective methods. Lastly, the aesthetic factors are also enhance through different construction technologies. The elements of the construction technologies enhance the time factor to enhance the construction activity in the industry. References LI, R. Y. M., POON, S. W. (2013). Construction Safety. Berlin, Springer. https://dx.doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-35046-7. RILEY, M., COTGRAVE, A. (2014a). Construction technology. 2, 2. KNAACK, U., KLEIN, T., BILOW, M., AUER, T. (2014). Fac?ades: principles of construction. https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=truescope=sitedb=nlebkdb=nlabkAN=852547. RILEY, M., COTGRAVE, A. (2014b). Construction technology. 2, 2. CHINOWSKY, P. (2014). Construction technology: critical concepts in construction. HAUPTFLEISCH, A. C. (2014). Basic construction technology. Pretoria, Construction Economics Associates. International conference on construction materials and structures, ekolu, s. O., dundu, m., gao, x. . (2014). Construction materials and structures: proceedings of the First International Conference on Construction Materials and Structures. https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=truescope=sitedb=nlebkdb=nlabkAN=939640. ). Davies, a., macaulay, s., debarro, t., thurston, M. (2014). Making Innovation Happen in a Megaproject: London's Crossrail Suburban Railway System. Project Management Journal. 45, 25-37.

Thursday, November 28, 2019

Arguements against cloning essays

Arguements against cloning essays In 1997 the world was introduced to a six month old lamb named Dolly, the first successfully cloned mammal, putting everyone around the world into shock. The time has come where our technology in science and medicine have advanced so much that human cloning has left science fiction and has now progressed into science. A high percent of people feel that there could be nothing good we could get out of cloning human beings and nothing scientifically or medically important would be lost by banning colonal reproduction (Kass). According to a poll taken by CCN of 1,005 adults in 1997, 69% said they are afraid of the possibility to clone humans, 89% feel it is morally unacceptable, and 74% believe human cloning is against Gods will (Robinson). There are, however, those who support the cloning of humans. A select amount of scientist feel that research cloning will lead to cures and treatments for the sick and cloning would also allow people to produce or raise a child to whom they are b iologically connected (Wachbroit). Although these are a few hopes of creating a human clone, such processes should be banned not only because they are extremely risky for the clones and the women who would birth them, but it would also diminish our world that is valued for individuality, despite the feelings of cloning supporters on the contrary. Although many scientists who support cloning do so in good intentions to help create cures for those who have diseases that we do not have treatments for, there are other ways of doing so without cloning. It would almost be impossible to restrict some forms of human cloning without banning it completely. The lives of humans are more valuable than to risk one for the benefit of another. Also, once research cloning is allowed and embryos become available, even the tightest regulations would not be able to prevent to birth of cloned babies (Robinson). Instead of using cloning to m...

Sunday, November 24, 2019

The Top 10 Jobs To Have Today

The Top 10 Jobs To Have Today Rachel Gillett over at Business Insider has rounded up the 25 best jobs to have now. Topping the list? Physician’s Assistant, so congrats to my cousin Alex, who apparently has it made in the shade. We’re rounding up just the top 10. 1. Physicians Assistant:There’s a high demand for this well-paying entry-level job in the medical field; average salary is $111,376, and there are 45,484 current job openings.2. Software Engineer:Yes, we should all have learned coding instead of taking those semesters of Italian in college. Engineers design and develop the systems that run on computers, and are paid on average $98,074 for it. There are more than 104,000 available openings in this field!3. Business Development Manager:This position is responsible for helping companies grow by identifying potential partnerships and prospects, then cultivating those relationships to everyone’s benefit. Average salary is $84,907, and there are currently 11,616 job openings.4. Human Resources Manager:This has sort of a who-watches-the-watchmen feeling about it, because who hires the human resources manager? But if you like managing staff activities and coordinating new hires, check out one of the 8,073 job openings available for this job, which earns on average $96,443.5. Finance Manager:In this job, you’d help companies manage their money and attend to their business needs; average salary is $122,865, and there are 9,728 job openings. If you like numbers and rock at organizing spreadsheets, this might be the gig for you.6. Marketing Manager:Are you noticing a trend? Management should be your end goal in a lot of these industries. A marketing manager coordinates- surprise!- the marketing of an organization’s products and services. There are 14,647 job openings in this field, with an average salary of $100,130.7. Database Administrator:Enjoy staying on top of inventories and customer transaction records? Consider this position, where you might ear n on average $97,835 and have 9,790 chances to find the right place to work.8. Product Manager:Are you the consummate team player? Project managers supervise design and production teams to produce and market products. There are 10,294 job openings, with an average salary of $113,363.9. Data Scientist:One of the downsides of all the data mining we do these days  is that it’s all just a pile of numbers without someone to interpret the findings and identify trends. There are 3,449 job openings with an average salary of $104,476.10. Sales Manager:Last on our round up for today (and sorry, for this introvert, kind of least) is the sales manager oeuvre- there’s an average salary of $121,657 and are 3,982 openings to choose from. So if you can find a place with a company you like and don’t mind cold-calling on the regular, this could be a great field to pursue.

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Comparing Policing Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Comparing Policing - Research Paper Example That common denominator is the police department. It is the one arm of government that is consistently present across the nations of the world. Though dressed differently and perhaps varying in function, the main objective of the force, that is to protect the people of the community, remains the steadfast goal of the department. This paper is meant to serve as an in introduction and comparison to three of the most notable police department's in the Western and European hemisphere namely the New York Police Department in the United States, the London Police of England,And the An Garda Siochana -- Ireland's National Police Force. To kick off this paper, the spotlight shall be trained upon the heroes of the 9/11 attacks -- the New York Police Department. The New York police department hold's the disntinct mission of enhancing the quality of life of ever New York City resident by working closely with the community. The power of the police department comes from their constitutional right to enforce laws, preserve the peace, reduce fear, and provide a safe environment for the citizens of the city. The core objectives of the force are as follows: In partnership with the community we (the New York City Police Department) pledge to: Protect the lives and property of our fellow citizens and impartially enforce the law. Fight crime both by preventing it and by aggressively pursuing violators of the law. Maintain a higher standard of integrity than is generally expected of others because so much is expected of us. Value human life, respect the dignity of each individual and render our services with courtesy and civility. (â€Å"NYPD†) Established in 1845, the New York City Police Department is the largest municpal police force in the United States. Their area of coverage includes the five boroughs of New York known as Manhattan, The Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island. The police department has a vast array of speclialized teams that patrol the city or respon d to emergencies. These specialized services list the Emergency Service Unit, K-9 unit, harbor patrol, air support, bomb disposal, counter-terrorism, criminal intelligence, anti-gang, anti-organized crime, and narcotics, just to name a few. In order to ensure the safety of every New Yorker, the New York police department is divided into 123 precints, without a precint 12 for some reason. Each precint functions independently of one another and has jurisdiction over specific areas of the city and the boroughs.(â€Å"NYPD†) Due to the vast size of the city, the manpower the New York police department sometimes comes up short in terms of visible security but due to the community partnership that exists between the police department and the community leaders, New York City has become one of the safest cities in the world, more so after the terrorist attacks of 9/11. One of the most important security measures in place within New York City that is enforced by the police department is the controversial stop and frisk operation that allows the police to do random checks of people who seem to be acting suspiciously in public. Of course a comparison study of the police departments will not be complete unless we study the police department of the city capital of the country that gave birth to the United States, the police department of London, England. The police department of London is divided into 2 groups. These groups are known as the Metropolitan Police Force Patrol and the City of London Police. Each group has a specific

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Topic selection and statement of problem Assignment

Topic selection and statement of problem - Assignment Example ystem can be defined as a personnel system applied in the process of hiring and promoting government employees based on merit to obtain the highest efficiency in public personnel functions. The application of the merit system in the public education sector has brought about unending controversies especially with the merit pay issue. The merit pay systems emphasizes on the fact that teachers are to be paid for their achievement in the classroom as opposed to their seniority or the number of ed-school credits that they have collected as it has been done from the 1920s period. Reformers in the education system including the government have emphasized that the merit pay will encourage high performing teachers to do well and drive the lazy ones away, thereby improving the performance of public schools. However, teachers’ unions have continually opposed the move stating that there is no objective way of measuring the classroom performance of a teacher. In addition to this, opposing views have pointed to the fact that the merit pay system has a high chance of failing especially because of issues of supervisor bias or favoritism (Gratz, 2009). The merit pay has proven to be productive especially in the private sector where it has been applied since the 1980s. The growth of international economic competition made U.S. corporations to measure indicial worker performance and introduced pay incentives based on work output to motivate employees to perform better. This practice has gone on up to the present day where new performance criteria have been implemented with multi-faceted compensation plans for the highly performing employees (Ritter & Barnett,  2013). The public education monopoly has resisted the merit pay proposal because of the fears that it may lead to biases and unfair treatment of teachers. However, pilot studies carried out, such as those done in Cincinnati’s public school system have proven successful. The merit pay system is relevant for the study of

Sunday, November 17, 2019

The Diamonds (author J Sorie Conteh) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

The Diamonds (author J Sorie Conteh) - Essay Example The story is a classic example of traditional African culture in disagreement with contemporary justice. The Diamonds explores the human misery and social meltdown caused by Sierra Leone's great diamond rush of the 1950s. Gibao Semabu, a successful peasant farmer, leaves his village for the Brave New World of diamond mining at Sewa. It is a totally different, corrupt world, where money is made quickly and then lost, theft is accepted, as long as one is not caught, and prostitution is very much a part of life. Initially timid but driven by an extraordinary ambition to get rich quick, Gibao succumbs to the greed and graft of the mines, and takes things further: he commits ritual murder after being told by a sorcerer that this will help him find large-size diamonds. The Diamonds, on one level, is a parable of the destruction of peasant life by encroaching modernity - in the manner of Thomas Hardy, it juxtaposes the bucolic, beautifully ordered society of rural Sierra Leone with the graft-ridden, violent world of unregulated capitalism, showing how a clash between the two leads to the destruction of the former.

Friday, November 15, 2019

Rising Concern On Environmental Issues Marketing Essay

Rising Concern On Environmental Issues Marketing Essay There has been a rising concern on environmental issues worldwide nowadays. Ministry of foreign affairs statistic shows that over the years, the temperature has been rise because of carbon dioxide trapped and green house gases have affected the global climate. This change will affect the people live all over the world. This also includes access to water, health, food and the well being of the environment. Todays consumers have started to realize that their purchasing behavior actually cause a huge impact to the environment. Therefore, companies should practice offering environmentally friendly products and service to people to prevent this world become worse. Although, Malaysia has undergone an excellent development followed governmental efforts to attract foreign investor to come and invest for a green product development in Malaysia, the practices of environmental responsible behavior are still low among Malaysian consumers. An example of the lack of environmental responsible behavior is shown in an article in Bernama whereby garbage thrown by one of the state in Malaysia residents is the main cause of river pollution in the state. According to a survey which was conducted on line by global market insight and information group, on the aspect of eco-friendliness of habits and behaviors only 8% of Malaysian respondents responded that they have changed their behavior in a greatest deal to benefit the environment. In addition 83% respondents reported that their views on a companys and their Colleges friendliness to the environment would influence their purchases of products and services. Therefore, studying the determinants of generation-Y consumers green purchase behavior will be definitely benefit green marketers. Generation-Y (also known as a millennial) is defined as A label attributed to people born during the 1980s and early 1990s. Members of Generation Y are often referred to as echo boomers because they are the children of parents born during the baby boom (baby boomers). Because children born during this time period have had constant access to technology (computers, cell phones) in their youth, they have required many employers to update their hiring strategy in order to incorporate updated forms of technology. In a simple word, generation-Y grew up with a technology and relies on those things to perform their job and their task. In addition, when going through a literature review in Malaysian context, there are still a gap existed between environmental knowledge, intention and behavior towards green product. [Said et al. (2003)]. Even though employees that have vast knowledge about green products in ISO 14001 certified organizations not necessarily would buy a green products. Therefore, factors those determine and affect consumer especially Generation-Y to purchase a green product would be worth to find out. 1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE RESEARCH Nowadays its nearly impossible to go shopping without finding a plethora of products that claim to be environmentally and consumer friendly. Oddly enough, many cheap and eco-friendly substances, such as vinegar, have been used for years as home cleaners. Whether you buy a green cleaning product at a store or use something on hand in your pantry, you can reap the benefits of choosing products that are gentler on you and the environment. Environment is defined as what surrounds a thing or an item or in other words it means the surrounding. It could be a physical element which is physical environment, that includes the built environment, natural environment such as air, water, land, atmosphere and etc or it could be human environment where people surrounding the item or thing which also known as the social environment. Today environment is getting worst and worst. Many environmental issues arise. Environmental concerns have been growing in recent years. One of the examples of environmen tal issue is global warming. Global warming and climate change refer to an increase in average global temperatures. Natural events and human activities such as burning garbage and waste are believed to be contributing to an increase in average global temperatures. This is caused primarily by increases in greenhouse gases such as Carbon Dioxide. The greenhouse effect keeps the earth warm when functioning normally. For the first time in history, human activities are altering the climate of our entire planet. According to (Jack, 2010), in less than 2 centuries, humans have increased the total amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere by 25% from the burning of fossil fuels and the destruction of forests. In addition to the natural fluxes of carbon through the Earth system, human activities, particularly fossil fuel burning and deforestation, are also releasing carbon dioxide into the atmosphere (The Carbon Cycle; the Human Role, Earth Observatory, NASA). Green product is define as a product products that produce limited carbon footprints; they may require fewer resources to produce, consume less energy or emit fewer hazardous emissions.  Green product is also a product that is non toxic, water-efficient, and also recyclable and biodegradable. There are many green products that have been produce for people in the market. For example household cleaner. Phosphate-free dishwasher and laundry detergents are green because they do not discharge environment-damaging phosphates into waterways. Other examples of green cleaning products are those labeled certified biodegradable; these have passed several stringent tests relating to biodegradability and environmental impact conducted by an independent certifying agency. According to Consumer Reports, the certified biodegradable label is more meaningful than a general biodegradable label. Glass and metal cleaners, kitchen and bathroom cleaners, and laundry detergents are products that might car ry this label. According to EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) research, the air inside the typical home is on average 2-5 times more polluted than the air just outside its walls. For the most part, indoor air pollution is created by the use of toxic chemical products like household cleaners. An EPA report stated that indoor air pollution is one of the nations most important environmental health problems. The EPA also concluded that household cleaners are 3 times more likely to cause cancer than air pollution. Walk down the cleaning product aisle at the supermarket and notice the strong toxic odors, even though the packages are tightly sealed so they cannot leak. Those same vapors remain in a well sealed home. A 15 year study compared women who worked outside the home and those who did not. They found a 54% higher death rate from cancer in the women who stayed home. The study concluded that the increased death rate was due to daily exposure to hazardous chemicals found in ordinar y household products. What is not being reported are the slow poisonings that occur in every home from continual exposure to household cleaning chemicals. A report by the Consumer Product Safety Commission found that 150 chemicals commonly found in homes have been linked to allergies, birth defects, breast cancer, testicular cancer, prostate cancer, declining sperm counts, and psychological abnormalities. Generation Y are the cool generation, they embrace brand and live in the new world of digitize communication. Thus that might be interesting to find their perception and their level of awareness towards environmental issues that the world is facing nowadays. Gen Y has grown up in a very structure, busy and over planned world. Also, Gen Y is made up of confident, optimistic young people who feel valued and wanted. In a article of science daily, Gen-Y is a people that will go all the way when it comes to saving the environment as long as it benefit to world economic and environment. They are maturing into a pragmatic generation that wants to do the right thing for the environment but also has real economic concerns PROBLEM STATEMENT Consumers or practically customers are the sellers and buyers that boost the countrys economy. Therefore, many firms are actually putting many efforts in order to attract more customers because these customers create businesses opportunities and generate profits to them. As the world nowadays facing so many problems regarding to a environmental issue, the consumers and their attitudes or behaviors to purchase a green product are the important factors to be considered. Consumers nowadays have more choices due to the effects of globalization. They will prefer the function of the product rather than the brand or whatsoever to ensure a healthier future. To determine the current level of consumers preferences towards the green products. To determine what are the determinants or factors of consumer preferences towards the green product. To determine the consequences or effects of consumer preferences towards the green product. RESEARCH OBJECTIVE Awareness towards environmental issue that the world nowadays facing play a major role encourage people to purchase a green product. Thus, this study is attempts to relate on the various variables that influence consumer especially generation-Y to purchase a green product. The objectives are as the following: * To study the factors affecting the consumer especially Gen-Y to purchase green product. Gen-y is a new generation and It is crucial to understand as they are more advance and modernize. Thus, several researches have been conducted in order to understand consumers in a way that how they behave, and what are the factors that cause them to behave or react to the responses of the products. Leading factors such as price and quality are always the top concerns to the consumers. Product attributes will moderate the effects of price on quality judgments. Partial of the consumers may focus on buying low prices goods and neglect the quality of the products. This group of consumers takes the price as a measure of sacrifice. For instance, consumers take the price served as the benchmark for comparing utility gains from the quality of the product. One the other hand, some portion of the consumers will be willing to pay a premium price for the quality and function of the products, as they are very sensitive to the signals of the quality of one product. Thus, it is hope that this stud y will contribute further to the understanding of factors of price and quality that may lead to the consumers prefer for a green product * To understand the awareness level of people about Go Green campaign. Nowadays, there are many environmental campaign have been organized by a government and private sector. This campaign is aim to encourage people to more concern about the environment. Thus ,it is hope that this study will explore how people react to a environmental campaign and what is their level of awareness about the awareness campaign. * To examine the benefit for people involvement in Go Green program. We might be asking, how we will benefit from getting involved in this environmental campaign. Well, recently there has been an increase in events directly related to the availability of natural resources. For example energy shortages that resulted to load shedding, change in weather patterns and water shortages. As a result, civil society is recognizing the need to manage our natural resources more effectively and responsibly. In doing so, we can ensure positive effects on our health, quality of life and even the cost of living. Thus, this study will help people to getting known more about what they will gain if they participate in the environmental campaign. *To discover what consumer perception towards green product green product. In curiosity to identify what are the main components or criteria that consumer especially gen-Y are looking forward in order to purchase a green product. It is true that each and every one of us are special and unique in the way we are, thus, every consumer has their very own perception in purchasing a green product. Different people from different backgrounds may have different perceptions on these products. In addition to that, different demographic groups may have different perceptions to this kind of product as well. Thus, this study will help to identify whether the consumer especially gen-y prefer to buy a green product or not to safe a mother of earth. 1.4 SIGNIFICANCE OF STUDY This study is crucial as there are a lot of green products have been selling nowadays. Obviously, when we talk about green product, the price for that particular item might be so expensive. The study on factors affecting consumer especially Gen-Y buying a green product may allow us to know in depth why are previous efforts taken does not produce as it is thought it would be. Based on the study conducted, motivations towards the environment, knowledge on green product, social norm, awareness and self-image have an impact on the consumer especially Gen-Y buying a green product. Government may need to enhance its program in educating people green product. New and more interesting Go Green program and method is a definite necessity in motivating people to increase their interest/awareness on a green product and indirectly motivates them to purchase it. 1.5 SCOPE OF STUDY The research focus on students in Multimedia University (MMU) Melaka campus which comes from various demographic backgrounds such as the faculty, ethnicity and nationality. The focused respondents are a great resemblance on the exact population in Malaysia. 1.6 ORGANIZATIONAL OF RESEACH 1.6.1 Chapter 1: Introduction Regarding this chapter, it introduce the background of this research such as why do people trade in order to get imported goods from other country. Thus, this will create a preference among the consumers locally and abroad to consume and purchase foreign made products. These sections will explain in details in the of consumers preferences from the Malaysian perspective and as well from the global view for foreign made products. This chapter also recognized the problem statement and the research objectives for this research. Finally, the justification of the research will help to justify the benefits and those who will gain in this research. Chapter 2 : Literature Review A thorough study will be conducted on the dependent variable and independent variables. The main purpose for this chapter is to weigh the pros and cons of the topic and to discuss in details on the ideas and knowledge concerned. In this chapter, every definition of the dependent variable and independent variables will be cited from the journals in order to strengthen every point mentioned. Several of arguments and various points of views from different authors in order to provide a stronger formation of each point can be founded in this chapter. In addition to that, this chapter explains the relationships on several independent variables relate to the dependent variables. 1.6.2 Chapter 3 : Research Methodology Research methodology is usually conducted after the thorough study of literature review. In this chapter, theoretical framework will be form to illustrate the relationships between the dependent variable and the independent variables. Hypotheses or a proposed explanation which were made on the basis of limited evidences will explain the relationships between two or more variables. All the hypotheses stated will be tested together with empirical data. This chapter also includes the description of the sampling data, data collections and as well as the development of the questionnaire for this research. Chapter 4 : Data Analysis After questionnaires are collected from all the respondents, then few tests will be conducted to test on the validity and reliability of the results. The responds of the questionnaires from the respondents are represented by a set of numbers that symbolize their own significant meanings. Whereas the tests that will be carry out are to analyze the responses from the respondents so that it will derive to a stronger conclusion at the end of this research. Chapter 5 : Conclusion This chapter will provide the final outcome of this research. Thus, the final results will be explained and we will be able to identify how the exact hypotheses that formed earlier are hold. Chapter 2 Literature Review In a general definition, green product is known as an ecological product or environmental friendly product. Shamdasami et al., (1993) in their research defined green product as the product that will not pollute the earth or deplore natural resources, and can be recycled or conserved. Green product is a product that has more environmentally sound content or packaging in reducing the environmental impact (Elkington and Makower, 1988; Wasik, 1996). In other words, green product refers to product that incorporates the strategies in recycling or with recycled content, reduced packaging or using less toxic materials to reduce the impact on the natural environment. Krause (1993), found that consumers will becoming more concerned about their habits and the impact on the environment. The consequence of this is that some of the consumers translated their environmental concern into actively purchasing green products commitment (Martin and Simintiras, 1995). Todayà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã… ¸s teenagers are c oncerned about environmental problems (Lyons Breakwell, 1994; Lee, 2008). Studies have shown that youth are more concerned and more informed about environmental problems than the adults (Van Liere Dunlap, 1980; Diamantopoulos, Schelemilch, Sinkovics, Bohlen, 2003), and teens who consider they to be knowledgeable about environmental issues tend to report higher levels of concern (Lyons Breakwell, 1994). There are many reasons and factors that affect consumer especially Gen-Y to buy a green product. Concern for the environment is perceived to be important in encouraging consumer to participate in green program and also buying a green product. Research finding suggest that, moral concerns determine several curtailment behaviors (Goldstein et al., 2008; Hage et al., 2009; Thà ¸gersen, 1996). However, studies on the influence of moral concerns on consumer high involvement buying decisions with environmental implications are rare (Thà ¸gersen, 1999). This is a problem since overlooking an influential determinant might hinder or delay successful diffusion of environmentally friendlier products and innovations. Other researcher also revealed that despite expressing concern towards the environment the consumers were unwilling to purchase or pay a higher price for environmentally friendly products (Jay, 1990; Ottman,1992; Schlossberg, 1991). A more recent report by the RoperASW (2002) prod uced somewhat disappointing results with overall environmental concern among the general population on a decline with 59 per cent of the general population not even thinking of participating in environmentally friendly activities. Kristensen and Grunert (1991) said the levels of general environmental knowledge among consumers have increased significantly over recent years. This may have been expected, since a number of new green product lines have been introduced in a market. (Bohlen et al., 1993). Knowledge and attitude towards environment are very important to influcence consumer especially Gen-Y To buy a green product. There is a general belief among the researchers and environmental activists that through purchasing environmentally friendly products or green products, products with recyclable packaging or properly disposing of non-biodegradable garbage, consumers can contribute significantly to improve the quality of the environment (Abdul-Muhmim, 2007). The quality of the environment depends critically on the level of knowledge, attitudes, values and practices of consumers (Mansaray and Abijoye, 1998). Attitudes are the most consistent explanatory factor in predicting consumers willingness to pay for green products (Chyong et al., 2006). This means that price is not the main factor in preventing consumers from purchasing green products if they are pro-environment. Researcher also found that Influencing consumer behaviour is a complex and difficult task requiring knowledge of its determinants. consumer knowledge and attitudes are determinants of behaviour (Engel et al., 1993), many researchers have attempted to understand the relationship between purchase behaviour and knowledge /attitudes. The studies from those by Arbuthnott and Lingg, (1975); Geller (1981); Maloney and Ward (1973); Muller and Taylor (1991); and Schahn and Holzer, (1990) have shown that environmental knowledge has little impact on purchasing behaviour. However, Dispoto (1977) concluded that environmental knowledge was a good predictor of environmentally sensitive activity. Grunert (1993) found that knowledge of the benefits of a green products use on the environment may have an impact on whether or not that product is purchased and used. Arbuthnott and Linggs (1975) in a study of environmental behaviours, knowledge and attitudes, suggested that environmental knowledge acts as a mediating variable for environmental attitudes and behaviour. Synodinos (1990) stated that more positive a ttitudes may result by increasing knowledge about environmental issues (p. 168). Cohen (1973) found that groups of students who were taught courses with a high environmental content, i.e. were given more environmental knowledge, had different attitudes toward the environment than the control group who were taught courses with a low environmental content. Maloney and Ward (1973) found that the attitude of consumers towards environmental protection was significantly more positive than their knowledge of environmental problems. They also stated that despite its current popularity, the average person appears to know very little about ecology (p. 585). Dispoto (1977) made similar conclusions, stating that subjects à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ were more emotionally involved with the environment that knowledgeable about it (p. 457). When translating these results into the context of green product lines, these findings would suggest that consumers will have a positive attitudes towards green product lin es without actually knowing how they impact on or preserve the environment. Certain theorists believe that personal norms are the attitudinal factor seen as closest to actual behavior. In relation to green activities, the personal norm reflects a moral obligation to act in an environmentally responsible manner. A key assumption is that personal norms develop through the formation of a consistent personal value system that also incorporates social norms. Several researchers have found personal norms to accurately predict green consumer behavior. Studies have also investigated the effect social influence has affect consumer especially Gen-Y purchase green product.The interest in green initiatives is not expected to emanate only from external impositions and inducements but also from the internal sense of responsibility of a firm towards the society in which it exists. For green issues, such sensitivity is intensified by increasing environmental problems such as global warming and pollution. Such problems may also raise awareness and interest of a firm to behave in a more socially responsible manner and reflect an image of due diligence and commitment to sustainability. Green purchasing is primarily motivated by a certain degree of consumer ecological consciousness. Frey and Stutzer (2006) identify a number reasons behind environmental motivation: intrinsic motivations, altruism, internalized norms and social norms. Social norms lead individuals to take into consideration the opinions of the other members of society when choos ing a green product over another: if they think that their acquaintances approve of green product purchase and disapprove of standard product purchase, there are encouraged to buy green products. (Ewing, 2001) Social norms are an important motivator of ecologically responsible behaviour The strength of the normative influence of the consumers family and social groups on purchasing decisions depends on the characteristics of the product (e.g. luxury rather than a necessity, publiclydisplayed or used in private), the susceptibility of theindividual consumer and the coercive power of the group to which the consumer belongs (Hoyer and MacInnis, 2004). Self image is the conception one has of oneself. Study in marketing influence on consumer purchase decision on green product, self-images was influencing green behaviours. This agrees to Lee(2008) finding on concern for self-image as the third predictor of her study. Apart from behavioral aspects, numerous studies have also looked at the r elationship between demographic and socioeconomic variables and purchase green product involvement. Kinnear, T. And Taylor, J. (1973) stated that there has been no signi ¬Ã‚ cant link found between demographic segmentation and green purchase. This could be due to the notion that different groups of people relate to different parts of the environmental agenda Peattie, K. (1995). There have been contradictory results of younger and older age groups concerns about environmental issues Peattie, K. (1995). There is, however, a belief that environmental concern is directly related to a consumers level of education Balderjahn, I. (1988). Based on four surveys, Hines et al. found no relationship with gender.

Wednesday, November 13, 2019

The Myth Of Consumerism Essay -- essays research papers fc

Every society has mythology. In some societies, it's religion. Our religion is consumerism.Ellen Weis, San Francisco's Museum of Modern MythologyConsumerism fuels the capitalist fire. In a capitalist society, the goal is to make money, by whatever means possible, exploiting whichever potential weakness that might exist. The human race is one with a wild imagination, and this wild imagination, though a great strength, can, like all great strengths, serve as a potential weakness.It is our imaginations that advertising exploits, and it is our imaginations that religion and myth traditionally played the role of satiating, telling stories that have morals to them, lessons to be learned. Now consumerism fulfills this role. The consumer ideology serves as the golden rule, advertising serves as sermons, products serve as our idoltry, and just as religion instills faith at an early age, so too does consumerism.Ellen Weis (qtd. in "Advertising Characters" 1997) speaks from the perspective of one who is an authority on mythology. Her analogy between religion and consumerism is an accurate one. Undoubtedly, she's referring to this role that consumerism is playing in stimulating our imaginations. It does this by telling us a story, with us playing the lead role, painting a picture of life as being better with the products being sold to us. Our imaginations are carried away by these stories. We want to believe them because they make sense of the world. We want to believe that all it takes to be happy is a trip to the store. This making sense of the world and simplifying to such a triviality is exactly the reason why myths are created.For example, nearly every cigerette ad features a picture of an ideal person smoking their brand, ideal at least by the standards of most people who long to be accepted. For women, the smoker typically has long blonde hair, a beautiful smile, and perfect, white teeth. The ads that best demonstrates this are those for Virginia Slims. For men you have Marlboro with the infamous "Marlboro man," who is a rugged, handsome loner out in the countryside with his horse and campfire. The ads seem to say, "this could be you." All it takes is a trip to the store and a couple of bucks for a pack.Like all myths, the stories these ads tell have a moral to them. The lesson they teach is: your life can be better with these... ...gion many more of the bad characteristics than the good. Like the example above shows, consumerism takes advantage of innocent minds much more than religion does. Also, religion serves many good purposes, such as teaching charity and love, whereas consumerism tends to only teach greed and fear. Even Good Samaritan ads, like in the Chevron example, are tainted with the greedy intentions of the company. Finally, although religion does tend to portray sex as taboo, consumerism tends to cash in on this attitude by portraying it as something scary, as in the PalmPilot example; the ads seem to act like the only way to get sex is by buying their products. While some religions and cults have bad effects on people's minds, consumerism seems to have worse effects. Still, they both share all of their main characteristics: morals, stories, idoltry, and faith, but consumerism seems to be coming out ahead in the race for the minds of Americans. Ellen Weis seems correct in calling consumerism o ur religion. Works CitedAdams, McCrea. "Advertising Characters." Signs of Life in the USA: Readings on Popular Culture for Writers. 2nd ed. Sonia Maasik and Jack Solomon. Boston: Bedford, 1997. The Myth Of Consumerism Essay -- essays research papers fc Every society has mythology. In some societies, it's religion. Our religion is consumerism.Ellen Weis, San Francisco's Museum of Modern MythologyConsumerism fuels the capitalist fire. In a capitalist society, the goal is to make money, by whatever means possible, exploiting whichever potential weakness that might exist. The human race is one with a wild imagination, and this wild imagination, though a great strength, can, like all great strengths, serve as a potential weakness.It is our imaginations that advertising exploits, and it is our imaginations that religion and myth traditionally played the role of satiating, telling stories that have morals to them, lessons to be learned. Now consumerism fulfills this role. The consumer ideology serves as the golden rule, advertising serves as sermons, products serve as our idoltry, and just as religion instills faith at an early age, so too does consumerism.Ellen Weis (qtd. in "Advertising Characters" 1997) speaks from the perspective of one who is an authority on mythology. Her analogy between religion and consumerism is an accurate one. Undoubtedly, she's referring to this role that consumerism is playing in stimulating our imaginations. It does this by telling us a story, with us playing the lead role, painting a picture of life as being better with the products being sold to us. Our imaginations are carried away by these stories. We want to believe them because they make sense of the world. We want to believe that all it takes to be happy is a trip to the store. This making sense of the world and simplifying to such a triviality is exactly the reason why myths are created.For example, nearly every cigerette ad features a picture of an ideal person smoking their brand, ideal at least by the standards of most people who long to be accepted. For women, the smoker typically has long blonde hair, a beautiful smile, and perfect, white teeth. The ads that best demonstrates this are those for Virginia Slims. For men you have Marlboro with the infamous "Marlboro man," who is a rugged, handsome loner out in the countryside with his horse and campfire. The ads seem to say, "this could be you." All it takes is a trip to the store and a couple of bucks for a pack.Like all myths, the stories these ads tell have a moral to them. The lesson they teach is: your life can be better with these... ...gion many more of the bad characteristics than the good. Like the example above shows, consumerism takes advantage of innocent minds much more than religion does. Also, religion serves many good purposes, such as teaching charity and love, whereas consumerism tends to only teach greed and fear. Even Good Samaritan ads, like in the Chevron example, are tainted with the greedy intentions of the company. Finally, although religion does tend to portray sex as taboo, consumerism tends to cash in on this attitude by portraying it as something scary, as in the PalmPilot example; the ads seem to act like the only way to get sex is by buying their products. While some religions and cults have bad effects on people's minds, consumerism seems to have worse effects. Still, they both share all of their main characteristics: morals, stories, idoltry, and faith, but consumerism seems to be coming out ahead in the race for the minds of Americans. Ellen Weis seems correct in calling consumerism o ur religion. Works CitedAdams, McCrea. "Advertising Characters." Signs of Life in the USA: Readings on Popular Culture for Writers. 2nd ed. Sonia Maasik and Jack Solomon. Boston: Bedford, 1997.

Sunday, November 10, 2019

Dams Are Very Important For Any Country Environmental Sciences Essay

Dams are really of import for any state. First they produce hydroelectricity which is the most cost effectual power in the universe. Second, hydroelectricity production used H2O as a resource which is a renewable resource. Dams are besides utile for irrigation intents. Water can be stored in them and so distributed in Fieldss as required. Dams besides help in halting inundations as it store the extra H2O. Constructing a dike requires a batch of stuff and labour input. This boosts up the industry in the state and creates employment chances. The Kalabagh Dam Project was designed in 1984. The United Nations Development Program ( UNDP ) assisted this undertaking. It was supervised by World Bank. This undertaking was started by the Water and Power Development Authority of Pakistan ( WAPDA ) . The undertaking Planning Report was submitted to the federal authorities for blessing. In the average clip detailed design and contract paperss were to be made by the people heading the Kalabagh undertaking. This undertaking was completed in the following two and a half old ages and building was to be started in mid 1987. It was estimated to be US $ 3.46 Billion at June 1987 degree and was to be completed in six old ages, with first bring forthing unit to be commissioned in April 1993. Kalabagh dike was proposed to be situated on River Indus in Kalabagh, Mianwali territory in Punjab state surrounding the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. During Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto ‘s government ( 1972-1976 ) Tarbela dike was constructed which was a immense undertaking. The Kalabagh dike design had already crossed the pulling board phase at that clip. Due to tremendous stuff and fiscal resources already committed for Tarbela dike, there did non originate the inquiry of start building Kalabagh dike. The political parties of Sindh and NWFP state were against the undertaking and argued that during the storage of H2O in Kalabagh dam the flow of River Indus in the Sindh country and peculiarly at the delta near the metropolis of Haiderabad would be well reduced endangering the ecology of the country and support of a big figure of people depending on piscaries. Similarly the political leaders of the North West Frontier Province ( now Khyber Pakhtunkhwa ) had reserves of another sort. One of their concerns was that 100s of estates of utile land would be covered in the reservoir country striping the state of agricultural usage of that la nd. They farther thought that some populated metropoliss would besides be threatened with inundations from clip to clip besides the hazard that any inadvertent breach of a little part of the dike will rinse off several little towns of the state doing tremendous loss of life and belongings. The federal authorities tried to convey about a consensus amongst all the states and no authorities felt itself strong and safe plenty to travel in front with the undertaking in malice of the reserves expressed by the oppositions of the construct of Kalabagh dike. General Zia-Ul-Haq ruled from 1976 to 1985 but he was ever at cold war with the Pakistan Peoples Party ( PPP ) holding a strong clasp in the Sindh state and opposed to the Kalabagh dike. It did non accommodate the general ‘s power political relations to take caput on confrontation with PPP on this issue and there was no inquiry of any rapprochement between the two. There was a glance of hope during the military regulation of genera l Musharaf ( 1998-2007 ) when he flatly announced his committedness to build the dike. However he did non turn up true to his words and there is small public cognition about what made him bury his committedness and non much was heard about Kalabagh dike during the 2nd half of his regulation.Literature reappraisal:Features of Kalabagh Dam:Kalabagh Dam ‘s salient characteristics include catchments country of 110,500 sq. stat mis. Average one-year flow would be 91.4 MAF. It has gross and unrecorded storage capacities of 7.9 MAF and 6.1 MAF, severally. Its upper limit and minimal keeping degrees are 915 pess 825 pess above mean sea degree. Dam ‘s type zone embankment is filled with clay nucleus. Its maximal height above river bed is 260 pess and entire length is 11,000 pess whereas the entire fill volume is 60 million three-dimensional paces. Dam ‘s flood and wasteweir capacities are 1,070,000 pests and 980,000 pests, severally. Unit size at Kalabagh Dam would be 300 M W. Turbines would be Francis type. Turbine design caput would be 170 pess. Power houses designed are indoor types. The initial installed capacity of the dike would be 2400 MW whereas the ultimate capacity would be 3600 MW. The estimated entire investing in June 1997 for the undertaking was Rs. 250 Billion. ( Alvi, 1997 )Political and provincial issues:One of the leaders that have been seen giving importance and statements demoing his enthusiasm in edifice Kalabagh Dam is General Parvez Musharaf. On December 31 2005 he addressed The News stating that all the major dikes including Kalabagh, Bhasha and Akhori will be built till 2016 to get the better of H2O deficit in the state. ( News, 2005 ) One of the chief grounds why Kalabagh Dam does non be today is that there was no political consensus on the issue as stated by Minister Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani on Monday, August, 10, 2010 in Multan. He besides stated that the deceases and devastation caused by the inundation could hold been averted if Kalabagh Dam would hold been built. ( Daily Times, August 10, 2010 ) . Everyone has a right to talk up on the Kalabagh Dam issue because everyone in this state will be affected by it. Even if person does non hold a proficient know-how on the issue he/she can still talk up and give his/her sentiment about it. It is non a proficient instead, a political issue. ( Ghazanfar ) Punjab Sindh contention: Sindh blames Punjab for â€Å" H2O robbery † . Water is a important affair for Sindh for the past three old ages. They believe that Kalabagh Dam would profit lone Punjab and all the H2O and grosss will be stolen from Sindh through the Dam. Sindhis, their support and agribusiness are being negatively affected by deficit of H2O and they blame it all on Punjab. ( Eckholm, 2003 ) Sindh and North West Frontier Province ( NWFP ) had serious apprehensivenesss sing the possible negative effects of Kalabagh Dam. Apprehensions of NWFP: Chief Minister of NWFP, Akram Khan Durrani said that the authorities of NWFP did non authorise President General Pervez Musharraf to build new dikes in the state. ( News, NWFP non authorizes President to build new dikes: Durrani, 2005 ) The Frontier Province put forward their ailments stating that 182,000 estates of their productive land will be lost under the reservoir, 34,000 people will be displaced and that Nowshera, a ample metropolis of NWFP, will be threatened with H2O logging. ( Kazi, 2003 ) . The political parties of NWFP besides said that Drainages of environing country of Mardan, Pabbi and Swabi fields would be adversely affected by the reservoir therefore making water-logging and salt. They were besides afraid that their traditionally cultural land would be submerged into the Dam. ( Kazi, 2003 ) Answers to apprehensivenesss of NWFP by Alvi: Equally far as the drowning of Nowshera was concerned, in the modified design of the undertaking the reservoir preservation degree has been lowered by 10 pess from 925 pess to 915 pess above mean sea degree ( MSL ) therefore the demand for building of any protective butch near Nowshera was eliminated. At maximal preservation degree of 915 pess, the back-water consequence of Kalabagh lake would stop about 10 stat mis downriver of Nowshera. A state-of-art computing machine based survey, backed by physical mold in Pakistan has assured that a inundation every bit black as the inundation of 1929 would non impact the H2O degree at Nowshera even after 100 old ages of deposit in reservoir. As for Mardan, Pabbi and Swabi countries their lowest land degrees are 970,962 and 1000 pess above MSL severally whereas the maximal preservation degree at Kalabagh Dam is 915 pess above MSL so it will non be a menace. Displaced people would be resettled and provided with surrogate irrigated land and other installations ( Alvi, 1997 ) Apprehensions of Sindh: Sindhi political parties said that there would be no H2O to make full Kalabagh Dam ‘s reservoir, cultivation will be effected adversely in Sailaba country, Rhizophora mangles would be threatened, and imbibing H2O and fish production bellow Kotri would be negatively affected. ( Kazi, 2003 ) Answers to apprehensivenesss of Sindh by Alvi: Dams are built for the intent of hive awaying H2O in the inundation season and doing it available on harvest demand for the remainder of the dry season. They are non built to devour H2O. If any state wants to construct, its portion of H2O would be purely governed by WAA 1991. Flood extremums above 300,000 cusecs would still be coming after Kalabagh, while big inundations would be efficaciously controlled. Out of the entire 1.53 million estates ( MA ) tidally inundated historic Indus Delta, Mangrove forest screen an country of about 0.32 MA In this wood, 95 % of the population now consist of a salt tolerant assortment. In order to resuscitate the Rhizophora mangles, existent demand is for replanting salt tolerant assortments, this possibility would be enhanced by constructing Kalabagh Dam. Fish production has been invariably increasing as shown by the statistical informations and there is no grounds that in Kotri it has been diminishing. ( Alvi, 1997 )Importance of Kalabagh Dam:If Kalabagh Dam is non built, there will be a 25 % shortage in nutrient and agribusiness in Pakistan by the twelvemonth 2000. ( Alvi, 1997 ) . Construction of the Kalabagh dike will assist salvage 20 million barrels of oil a twelvemonth needed to bring forth thermic power or Rs.33.2 Billion. This is said by the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry ( LCCI ) President Zafar Iqbal Chaudhry. ( Tribune, 2010 ) . It will supply inexpensive hydroelectricity to the National Grid with its installed capacity of 2400 MW ( ultimate 3600 MW ) . In an mean twelvemonth, 11413 million kW hours ( MKWh ‘s ) of electricity would be generated. It will cut down the menaces and inclinations of inundations in Indus River. Dam would salvage around Rs. 25 billion per annum. Thus the investing cost of undertaking would be repaid within a really short period of 9-10 old ages. ( Alvi, 1997 )Disadvantages of Kalabagh Dam:There is no H2O in Indus River to make full Kalabagh Dam. Provincial assemblies of three states nem con rejected the Kalabagh undertaking. They must hold done so on some pure groundss. Indus River System Authority, IRSA, rejected the Kalabagh Dam on October 22, 1996 on the footing that the Dam will be silted rapidly ; it has a short life of approximately 22 to 30 old ages ; its public presentation will be instead hapless ; it has a relatively lower electric coevals capableness. All this would ensue in immense losingss to the state ‘s treasury. The Dam is economically impracticable. The dwellers of Sawan, Kabul and Tui will hold to be rehabilitated which will be really expensive. The dike will displace a big figure of people which amounts up to 48500 – 44000 in Punjab and 4500 in the NWFP ( figure taken from ( Ghazanfar ) ) and inundate fertile lands in NWFP and Punjab which is 24500 estates out of which merely 2900 ( figure taken from ( Ghazanfar ) ) acres is irrigated land. Nowshera will endure terrible H2O logging. Infrastructure will be submerged by Kalabagh Dam including including the Attock-Talagang route on river Sawan, the Kohat-Rawalpindi route and the Peshawar-Rawalpindi route on river Indus besides some railroad paths. The Sui gas line between Peshawar-Rawalpindi and Rawalpindi-Kohat will besides drop in the dike. The Mardan and Swabi SCARP undertakings will be affected and there will be a possible backwater effects on the Ghazi-Barotha undertaking. Earthquakes can damage the Dam as it sits on the mistake country. Kalabagh would hold hurtful impact on environment, ecosystem, biodiversity, home ground, wetlands and undersoil aquifers. ( Narejo, 2005 )Positions of Water And Development Authority ( WAPDA ) :Chairman WAPDA Tariq Hameed said that the building of Kalabagh Dam will neither do loss to Sindh nor to NWFP. Seismic survey has already been conducted and temblors will non be a danger to the Dam. 35.2 million acre pess H2O has flowed in the sea since the building of Tarbela dike so at that place will decidedly be H2O available for the Dam. Sindh would acquire 37 per cent ( 2.4 million acre pess ) extra H2O after the Dam is constructed. ( News, 2005 ) . WAPDA has been pull stringsing the figures it shows to public. In 1987 WAPDA put the eastern river flow at 2 MAF but in 1994 it all of a sudden raised it to 4.00 MAF, demoing it as â€Å" flow generated within Pakistan † . WAPDA has given a little figure of 2.0 MAF for the future Indian claim on the western rivers, which in fact, could be every bit high as 4.8 MAF. System losingss have been shown as 10 MAF which could really make up till 18.7 MAF. WAPDA has been increasing the influx figures and diminishing the outflows figures. ( Ghazanfar ) .Cultural and other issues:The Washington based World Sindhi Institute ( WSI ) is a human rights organisation. After hearing the intelligence of blessing of Kalabagh dike by the Nawaz Sharif regime it proposed that it will set together a place paper on Kalabagh dike, foregrounding the negative political, environmental, proficient, and societal impacts of the dike. It will inquire the other Sindhi corporation to collaborate with it. It wil l form protests, seminars, workshops, publish articles, interacts with media and inquire sindhi people to collaborate with it. It targeted the Sindhi husbandmans and made the cultural depletion an issue to elicit them. There were other bureaus as good which cooperated with WSI and farther told Sindhis and people of NWFP about the negative impacts of Kalabagh Dam, concealing the positive points. They created green-eyed monster towards Punjab and the authorities stating that they will utilize the land of NWFP and steel H2O from Sindh to develop grosss for Punjab. They targeted the landlords as good and made them against the undertaking. The husbandmans were brainwashed that their traditional ways of farming would be depleted. ( Dc, 1998 )Discussion:Kalabagh Dam is a really controversial issue. In the survey of this issue I have come to detect that even the experts in different Fieldss who have been related to this issue or have been someway interested to analyze and compose about it b esides seem to hold conflicting positions sing this undertaking. In the earlier portion of this paper I have written about different positions from different experts and it is apparent that Kalabagh Dam undertaking has seen many contentions on political, cultural, international and proficient evidences. Mr. Alvi said that if Kalabagh Dam is non built, there will be a 25 % shortage in nutrient and agribusiness in Pakistan by the twelvemonth 2000. ( Alvi, 1997 ) . This statement is based on statistical survey or female horse premise I can non state because the existent statistics province the antonym. The quantum index figure of major agricultural harvests states that there has been an existent addition in overall production of major agricultural harvests of Pakistan. These statistics have been taken from the Federal Bureau of Statistics.Crops2005-62006-72007-8All harvests101117126Food harvests107115108Rice108105108Wheat10111199Barley747974Jowar698177Bajra142153196Maize188187218Gram8514884Fiber harvests116114104Cotton116114104Other harvests96118138Sugarcane96118138Rape seed and mustard749276Sesamum998693Tobacco10596100Due to non constructing Kalabagh Dam the nutrient and harvest production in Pakistan did non diminish as Mr. Alvi had predicted but if Kalabagh would hold been built, th e production could hold been boosted up even more. It would hold helped Pakistan in increasing its exports as Pakistan ‘s major exports are its harvests. From an economic sciences position, it would hold helped the Pakistani economic system to turn to a great extent. The husbandmans would hold benefited, the people would hold benefited by acquiring cheaper harvests to eat and lesser of their income would hold had to be spent on indispensable points, which means they could hold saved more for superior goods. The consequence: an overall addition in the criterion of life of people in Pakistan. Other than the disbursement factor as Kalabagh Dam is a large undertaking it would hold boosted the whole economic system due to an addition in investing in many different countries of economic system. It would hold had a multiplier consequence. The natural stuffs required in constructing it such as cement would hold boosted the cement industry. Labor demand would hold been high. Peoples would really hold been employed. Unemployment rate in Pakistan would hold been reduced. Skilled and unskilled workers, both were required in this large undertaking. The machinery required in edifice it would hold boosted up the steel industry. And there are many other factors as good which would hold straight resulted in an addition in production in the whole economic system. It would hold had a great multiplier impact and the economic system would hold been boosted up. Peoples would hold earned incomes and the criterion of life in Pakistan would hold increased at a singular gait. This is the effects such large investing undertakings have on the economic system. Kalabagh Dam would hold helped the economic system to hike up in a short period of clip. A large undertaking it would hold been, lending to the lower monetary values and lower electricity measures. Statisticss have shown that it could hold produced 11413 million kW hours ( MKWh ‘s ) of electricity. It would hold provided inexpensive electricity to the people and might hold helped in diminishing the job of burden shading and high electricity measures that we are confronting today. It will cut down the menaces and inclinations of inundations in Indus River. Dam would salvage around Rs. 25 billion per annum. Thus the investing cost of undertaking would be repaid within a really short period of 9-10 old ages. ( Alvi, 1997 ) . Construction of the Kalabagh dike will assist salvage 20 million barrels of oil a twelvemonth needed to bring forth thermic power or Rs.33.2 Billion. This is said by the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry ( LCCI ) President Zafar Iqbal Chaudhry. ( Tribune, 2010 ) . Even our leaders, though they are conflicting amongst themselves on the issue of Kalabagh Dam, are cognizant of the advantages they have lost due to non constructing kalabagh dike. â€Å" One of the chief grounds why Kalabagh Dam does non be today is that there was no political consensus on the issue as stated by Minister Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani on Monday, August, 10, 2010 in Multan. He besides stated that the deceases and devastation caused by the inundation could hold been averted if Kalabagh Dam would hold been built. † ( Daily Times, August 10, 2010 ) . Kalabagh dike had many advantages for the state. The state on the whole would hold benefited a batch from the undertaking. It should hold been built.DecisionSo, if I were to give an sentiment I must state that Kalabagh dike should hold been built. It would hold had so many benefits to the economic system of Pakistan. It would hold boosted the economic system to a great extent. From harvest production to cement industry to employment sector, everything would hold benefited from Kalabagh dike. Pakistan ‘s authorities is excessively controversial in itself and the civilization is so backward that people do non hold exposure to the new engineering and hence its benefits. They stick to their conventional agencies of irrigation and are afraid of any large alterations. These contentions are the basic grounds in my position that Kalabagh does non be today and I must state that Pakistan has lost something which it does non cognize could hold done admirations to its economic system and p eople. The burden shadowing we all complain about could hold been controlled and reduced to a great extent if Kalabagh was built because the demand for electricity has outrun its supply. Due to Kalabagh, the supply of electricity would hold increased and it could hold come to equilibrium with the demand. The deficit of electricity would hold been managed by constructing Kalabagh dike. Sindh and NWFP had some apprehensivenesss sing the undertaking but the experts answered them in a satisfactory mode. The design of Kalabagh Dam was changed in order to foster fulfill them. Kalabagh dike would hold decreased the inundation menaces for the state. It would hold increased the harvests production. This in return would hold increased the exports of Pakistan and benefited its balance of payments account. The currency of Pakistan would hold become a small stronger. Overall, Kalabagh Dam undertaking was so a large investing undertaking which would hold benefited the whole state and its people. Everyone would hold benefited from it. By non constructing it, we have lost a large beginning of income for the people every bit good as the authorities.Mention subdivision:

Friday, November 8, 2019

Johnson Johnson SWOT Analysis

Johnson Johnson SWOT Analysis Introduction Johnson Johnson is an American company manufacturing pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and consumer packaged goods worldwide. It was founded in New Brunswick, New Jersey, in 1886; its headquarters are still there though it has subsidiary companies all over the globe. The company name is synonymous with its baby care products though it has wide range of products not only pharmaceutical but also in the allied segments of diagnostic devices and surgery.Advertising We will write a custom critical writing sample on Johnson Johnson SWOT Analysis specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Their well-known OTC products are Tylenol, Motrin, Johnson’s baby oil, visine, Bengay, Neutrogenga skin care products and Band-Aid bandages (MBA Lectures, 2010). After starting in 1896, the company expanded first to Canada in 1919 and later to Britain in 1924. Its public launch was in 1944 listing with the New York Stock Exchange. Its strategic acquisition started with Neutrogena in 1994 and Depuy in 1998. During the period from 1989 to 1999, the company had 45 acquisitions to its credit. Johnson Johnson began to help doctors and nurses to use sterile sutures, dressings and bandages in the treatment of wounds. This fuelled further innovative ideas to be introduced from time to time ever since. (Marketing Teacher.com, n.d). Keeping its responsibility towards environment, the company formulated in its vision statement that it should use the resources that are environmental friendly. Its major products of traditional production are Band-Aids, Listerine and Baby Lotion. As part of its healthy planet program, it sets up new long term goals every five years Their long term goals include direct purchase of low cost hydro and wind power, and acquiring on-site solar power and land fill gas. It is also maintaining the largest fleet of hybrid vehicles throughout the world (Boone and Kurtz, 2011). The Company is still remembered for its response to people who died of cyanide poisoning of its Tylenol capsules as sabotage. The quick withdrawal of Tylenol from the market alone cost the company half a billion dollars as moving cost. Ethical practices of the company are proving to be its competitive advantage (Williams, 2011). Strengths:Advertising Looking for critical writing on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Workforce of 118,000 employees. Presence in 60 countries. More than 250 operating companies. The 8th largest pharmaceutical business and the 6th largest biotech business in the world. Recognized by the United Nations as the Humanitarian of the year for 2011 for the work of philanthropy touching lives of billions of people’s basic health care. Reported strong progress in the first of five year pledge to help save and improve lives of 120 million women and children in developing countries as part of the United Nation s Millennium Development Goals. Increasing sales of $ 61.1 bn in 2007, $ 63.7 bn in 2008, $ 61.9 bn in 2009, $ 61.6 bn in 2010 and $ 65 bn in 2011. Increased dividends paid per share $ 1.620 (2007), $ 1.795 (2008), $ 1.930 (2009), $ 2.110 (2010) and $ 2.250 (2011). Development of new treatment for prostate cancer. 125 years of experience. A number of new innovative products to meet the unmet health care needs across the world. Strong product portfolios in immunology, oncology, surgical devices and emerging markets. Scientific innovation. Well positioned to grow and increase market leadership. Delivering sustainable growth for shareholders. Business restructured to manage cost structure, simplify business operations. Nine major approvals for new pharmaceutical products in the U.S. obtained as a result of continued research and development for the last five years incurring over $ 37 billion. The new products include STELERA and SIMPONI in immunology, PREZISTA, INTELENCE in HIV, ZYTIGA in oncology, XARELTO in cardiovascular disease segments. R D efforts in the segment of Medical Devices and Diagnostics (MD D) and consumer platforms, such as contact lenses, electrophysiology, advanced energy, biosurgicals, oral care, and skin care. These amount to $ 7.5 billion. New technologies for replenishment of certain segments. E.g., Fibrin Pad, canaglifozin and bapineuzumab are produced for treatment of hemostasis, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease respectively. Sizeable amount of capital reserves returned by of refund of shares and payment of retained dividends that further strengthened financial parameters. Pfizer Consumer Healthcare and Beijing Dabao Cosmetics Company Ltd in the Consumer business segment acquisitioned as part of company’s long term strategy. These were company’s strategic alliances to improve its market and competitive advantage. Crucell N.V. and Elan Corporation Plc were introduced in pharmaceutical business segment, pending acqui sition of Synthes, Inc were applied in MDD business. Ingenuity, resiliency, tenacity, integrity and compassion shown by the people of Johnson Johnson during the period of industry and global changes. Growth in adjusted earnings for the 28th consecutive year. It amounted to $ 13.9 billion, and adjusted earnings per share were $ 5. Worldwide sales of $ 65.0 billion reflecting an increase of 5.6 % from previous year. Development of â€Å"telaprevir† in partnership with Vertex Pharmaceuticals, which was approved in 2011 and set to meet the needs of treatment of hepatitis C affecting 170 million people all over the world. It is already in the market under the brand name IN CIVO in Europe. Making alliance with Bayer Healthcare. Due to that, drug by name XARELTO was introduced by the company in 2011. It is for the cure of complications arising out knee or hip replacement procedures. This medecine can also be administered to avoid stroke and systemic embolism in people suffering fro m nonvalvular atrial fibrillation. Broad based business and expertise. These allowed to create devices like blood glucose monitors, insulin pumps, and develop new drugs like canagliflozin. Nutritional products, such as SPLENDA sweeteners, brought out through Consumer Wellness and Prevention business. 70 % of sales. This rate is attributed to two products having No. 1 and No.2 global market share positions. 25 % of sales from the new products launched in the last five years. Maintained AAA credit rating. Paid increased dividend to shareholders for the 49th consecutive year. Generated a free cash flow of about $ 11.4 billion. Exceeded Standard Poor‘s 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average in respect of one year shareholder return at nearly 10 percent. The above comparison has been maintained over a long period. The company remains an investment choice for several decades (Johnson Johnson 2011). Johnson and Johnson was the first to introduce a sterilizing technique for catgut su tures. It was the company’s first major product. In the U.S., the company is able to keep their price increase in tune with Consumer Price Index (CPI). It is able to prevail upon the governments for differential pricing of its products so as to make its goods reach different segments of population. Thus, the company has agreement with the U.K. in respect of its product VELCADE meant for the treatment of multiple myelama. Another agreement was made with France for RISPERDAL and CONSTA for treatment of schizophrenia. Various companies and governments have also entered into agreements with the company for various risk sharing arrangements (Marketing Teacher.com, n.d). The company is able to offer discount for their baby care products and contact lens. Its promotional campaign â€Å"Beauty for all Ages† has been quite popular at Wallgreens. The company is involved in helping manage many cases, such as healthy life styles. There were a lot of programs to promote a healthy l iving, such as the campaign for Nursing’s future, Having a Baby Changes Things and Because We Care We Act. Its decentralized management approach gives its employees an entrepreneurial feel of the belief that they succeed to meet the customer needs and provide them with solutions (Marketing Teacher.com, n.d).Advertising We will write a custom critical writing sample on Johnson Johnson SWOT Analysis specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Weaknesses: Uncertain macroeconomic conditions; Patent expiration in two years for two of the company’s major drugs, Risperdal and Topmax which gained $ 6 billion in sales; Severe economic conditions that restrict consumer spending; Quality issues related to over-the-counter products at McNeil Consumer Healthcare; Recall of the DePuy ASR Hip system. As on January 1, 2012, the company is facing numerous product liability cases. Damages claimed are substantial although company’s warning s and instructions were adequate enough to counter such claims. Yet it is difficult to predict the litigation outcomes. Approximately, there are 3,800 claimants for injuries due to LEVAQUIN, 4,700 in respect of ASRâ„ ¢ XL Acetabular System and DePuy ASRâ„ ¢ Hip Resurfacing System, 860 for PINNACLE, 420 for RISPERDAL, 480 for pelvic meshes, 95 for CYPHER stent and 60 for DURAGESIC. Johnson Johnson’s subsidiaries are facing intellectual property lawsuits in respect of Medical Devices and Diagnostics. In 2004, Tyco Healthcare Group LP (Tyco) and the U.S. Surgical Corporation sued Ethicon Endo-Surgery, Inc for infringement of four of TYCO patents by the company’s product EES’s HRAMONIC Scalpel in the U.S. District Court of Connecticut. Although the case was dismissed on the ground that TYCO did not own the patents, and the dismissal without prejudice also was affirmed in appeal, TYCO has filed complaint of similar infringements in the same court for monetary damages and injunctive relief in 2010. The case is expected to be heard in May 2012. Cordis Corporation filed lawsuits in New Jersey and Delaware courts against Guidant Corporation, Abbott Laboratories, Boston Scientific Corporation, Meditronic Ave in 2006 complaining that company’s Xience V (Abbott), Promus (Boston Scientific) and Endeavor (Meditronic) infringed several of their Cordis’s Wright/Falotico patents. Courts found the claims invalid, and they were also affirmed in appeals in one of the cases for lack of written description and written enablement. In 2007, Bruce Saffran sued for patent infringement against Johnson Johnson and Cordis in Texas court for infringement of the US Patent No. 5,653, 760. Court found in 2011 that Cordis infringed a patent issued to Saffran who was awarded with $ 482 million. Cordis was also ordered to pay $ 111 in addition in 2011 as pre-judgment interest. Cordis appealed, and the company has not made any accrual in this regard sinc e it believes that there is no unfavorable outcome.Advertising Looking for critical writing on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More In 2007, Rosche diagnostics filed lawsuit for patent infringement against Life Scan Inc. in Delaware Court for the reason that LifeScan’s blood glucose monitoring system infringed two of its patents related to the sue of microelectrode sensors. Lifescan obtained a favorable judgment. On appeal by Roche, appeal court has remanded the case for hearing on new findings. In 2008, Cordis filed lawsuit against Guidant, Abbott, Boston Scientific andMedtronic alleging that the Xience Vâ„ ¢ (Abbott), Promusâ„ ¢ (Boston Scientific) and Endeavor ® (Medtronic) infringed their Wyeth (now Pfizer) Morris patents. In January 2012, court summed up in the favour the defendants for lack of enablement and failure to describe the full scope of the invention sufficiently. Cordis is likely to appeal. Similar lawsuits were brought by Rembrandt Vision Technologies L.P. in 2009. Howmedica Osteonics Corp and Styker Ireland Ltd filed lawsuits for patent infringements in Texas and New Jersey Court s respectively in 2011. Trials are pending. Company’s subsidiaries have instituted lawsuits in respect of pharmaceutical patent infringements starting from 2007 till date. Similarly lawsuits are also pending against the company’s subsidiaries (Johnson Johnson 2011). Opportunities: Ageing of the world population contributes to more spending on health care costs. International presence and outward growth help the company avail of the opportunities for additional business emerging from global health care reforms. Cancers, mental health disorders, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, rheumatoid arthritis, and HIV present opportunities in the unmet medical needs. These give chances to control the market where the company has presence and can make investments to gain leadership. Health care reforms evolving around the world requiring more cost effective health care solutions by the government payers and regulators present opportunities to make investments in personalized medic ine, companion diagnostics in the fields of oncology and anti-psychotics. There are also new opportunities through acquisitions for new technologies, such as the product REVIVE SE device which saved the life of Mrs. Wecker through full recovery from her stroke. Similarly, company’s oncologist Bill Hait was saved from the use of newly introduced blood clot retrieval and removal device. Fibrin pad was developed through collaboration with Israel based Omrix Pharmaceuticals Ltd in the treatment of surgical bleeding. Sustained regulatory environment with a view of saving lives, mitigating patients’ sufferings, and addressing unmet medical needs allows to make innovations. Company supports strong regulatory presence since it ensures patient safety, and fast approvals of lifesaving medicines (Johnson Johnson 2011). Threats: Slowdown in economic growth, fluctuations in financial markets, increased unemployment and pressure on heath care costs have a negative impact on healt h care spending (Johnson Johnson 2011). There is regulatory high-handedness. Its global competitors are able to offer substitute products at lesser prices. Established pharmaceutical products with brand selling face major threats from generic manufacturers from local markets. Bio-technology may wipe out pharmaceutical technology in future. There exist regulatory pressures of different kinds in different countries (MBA Lectures 2010). Strengths: Even before the advent of the 20th century, Johnson Johnson became an enterprise with international presence. It is credited with customer satisfaction and robust R D facilities. Large scale operations have helped the company minimize expenditure and become more competitive. Brand image, brand loyalty, and long standing customers are the plus points for the company. It commands world wide presence with as many as 250 subsidiary companies operating in about 57 companies. The company’s products are represented in 175 countries as in 2008, and its annual sales revenue for the year ended in 2011 is $ 65,030 millions. The company has been able to differentiate from its competitors. With vast diversification in pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and consumer packaged goods, the company enjoys the competitive advantage over the others. Johnson Johnson has more than 29,925 internet domains associated with Internet and technology organizations having web presence (MBA Lectures, 2010). Strategic acquisitions mean that its stable financial position has enabled Johnson Johnson to make timely acquisitions utilizing its cash reserves. Its triple –A credit rating indicates its ability to seize opportunities by remaining free from financial debt burden. Product diversification has enabled the company to avoid dependence on any particular market segment or product portfolio. Its long range plans of diversification are set to be completed by 2014. Positive revenue growth projections include that the new products launc hed will more than compensate its decline in revenues from prescription pharmaceutical market, and an increase of 1.8 % in 2008-14 is sure to be achieved (Marketing Teacher.com, n.d). Weaknesses: On April 30, 2010, Johnson Johnson’s subsidiary company had to recall 43 kinds of OTC medicines that include Benadr, Tylenol Plus, Tylenol and Zyrtec. In 2010, Johnson Johnson was sued by the U.S. government unethical distribution of drugs to dementia patients through Omnicare. Several of its products are outdated due to patents or copy rights expiry. The company incurs heavily on expenditures related to information gathering having no value added output or input. Due to its copyright expirations, the company is facing lot of pressure to reduce its prices. Company is largely dependant on revenues from Risperdal and CNS (MBA Lectures 2010). Its new products recently launched are subject to uncertainties of market forces and regulatory overview. Reliance on small molecule drugs, wh ich are subject to competition from generics market, puts the company at a disadvantage (Marketing Teacher.com, n.d). Opportunities: The company’s acquisition of Pfizer will add to its growth substantially. Johnson Johnson enjoys competitive edge to enhance its market capture by way of innovative products and sustained product development. The company has been leveraging its international presence with the strategies of joint ventures and acquisitions. Its foray into diagnostics and medical devices markets helps promote the growth of its markets. Growth in the economy round the corner promises increased customer spending which will in turn reflect in company’s enhanced sales revenues. The company has the unique synergistic advantage in maximizing its revenues through acquisitions of diverse range of companies (MBA Lectures 2010) Cross selling opportunities abound due to its strategic acquisitions and strategic positioning. The disease life cycle presents unlimited g rowth opportunities in the segments of Cardiovascular, oncology, diabetes and I I therapy. Market for biological products has a huge potential not only to compensate its loss of market due to patents expiry on molecules. A biological major has already joined hands with the company in 2009 to develop and commercially exploit the items, such as therapeutic proteins Procrit, Natrcor, and monoclonal antibodies, such as Remicade, Reopro, Simponi, and Stelara. These provide the company with the intellectual property rights opportunities so as to strengthen its discovery rights (Marketing Teacher.com, n.d.; Johnson Johnson SWOT Analysis, n.d.). Threats: There is a regulatory high-handedness. Its global competitors are able to offer substitute products at lesser prices. Established pharmaceutical products with brand selling face major threats from generic manufacturers to local markets. Bio-technology may wipe out pharmaceutical technology in the future. There exist regulatory pressures of different kinds in different countries (MBA Lectures 2010). References Boone, L.E. Kurtz, D.L. (2011). Contemporary Business, U.S.A.: John Wiley Sons. Johnson Johnson. (2011). Annual Report. Retrieved from investor.jnj.com/2011annualreport/index.html April 27, 2012 Johnson Johnson SWOT Analysis. (n.d). Retrieved from businessteacher.org.uk/business-resources/swot-analysis-database/johnson-johnson-swot-analysis/ MBA Lectures (2010) SWOT Analysis of Johnson Johnson. Retrieved from http://mba-lectures.com/marketing/swot-analysis-marketing/1109/swot-analysis-of-johnson-johnson.html Marketing Teacher.com (n.d.). SWOT Analysis of Johnson Johnson, Retrieved from marketingteacher.com/swot/johnson-and-johnson-swot.html Williams, C. (2011). Management . Ohio, USA: Cengage Learning.