Review Of The Better Angels Of Our Nature By Steven...

INTP 371 - Short Essay Sally Togher | 15 April 2017 | Question 2 —————————- Evaluate and critique the different arguments for the decline in warfare since 1990. In the last decade, discussion of â€Å"the decline of war† has dramatically escalated. This essay evaluates and critiques three major arguments for the decline in warfare since 1990, examining the human nature approach of Steven Pinker, the shorter-term factors proposed by John Mueller and the alternative â€Å"New Wars† theory championed by Mary Kaldor. In combination, these approaches provide a general summary of the major strains of â€Å"declinist† literature and demonstrate the challenges of assessing the changing political violence and armed conflict after the Cold War. In â€Å"The Better†¦show more content†¦John Mueller makes a claim even bolder than a decline in war, arguing that war has ceased, or nearly ceased, to exist. He argues that the general decline in inter-state war lies in the changing attitudes towards war. Mueller contends that up until the early 20th century, war was seen in a positive light, but European attitudes changed â€Å"profoundly† after WWI, and that shift of opinion was â€Å"dramatically reinforced† by WWII. Mueller explains the particular fall in civil wars in the 1990s as a result of improvements in governance and policing in developing countries. Thus these factors in combination explain the recent decline in all wars. Mueller rejects other alternative arguments for the decline of war, including economic interdependence and institutional incentives, on the basis of causality and questionable impact. Critics of his theories point out that the traditional â€Å"war† conception they are ba sed on excludes any non-state warfare with under 1000 deaths, and thus explanations of the recent decline do not account for major instances of political violence such as the Rwandan Genocide. However, Mueller refutes these critiques with the view that such political violence is merely opportunistic thugs who are the ‘residual combatants’. Thus, Mueller’s claim that war has â€Å"ceased to exist† is qualified, particularly in light of political changes after the cold war. Comparatively, Mary Kaldor attempts to address the methodological issues of

The Theme Of Loneliness - 1549 Words

In â€Å"A Clean, Well-Lighted Place,† by Hemingway and Miss Brill by Katherine Mansfield what they both have in common is the literary device theme loneliness. Theme is the general idea or insight revealed in a narrative. These two stories are also different from the style of writing these two authors wrote how to tell their stories. Loneliness is introduced in the beginning of the short story â€Å"A Clean, Well-Lighted Place† by Hemingway. The deaf old man, with no wife and only a niece to care for him, is noticeably lonely. The younger waiter, upset that the old man won’t go home, shows himself and the old man in opposites: â€Å"He’s lonely. I’m not lonely. I have a wife waiting in bed for me† (Ernest Hemingway pg. 373) Loneliness, for the†¦show more content†¦Ã¢â‚¬Å"The old people sat on the bench, sill as statues. Never mind, there was always the crows to watch.† (Mansfield pg. 563) She sees all of the people, in their separate interactions, as being part of a stage production. She thinks of the people in the stands, including herself, not as audience members but as performers too. She thinks of herself as being a part of the production that if she were missing someone she would notice. She tells the old man who cares little for her presence that â€Å"I ha ve been an actress for a long time.† (Mansfield pg. 564) These two stories contrast the way they were written in â€Å"A Clean, Well-Lighted Place† the author Hemingway writes the story mostly in dialogue. The story is mostly the young waiter and older waiter talking to each other about the old man. â€Å"Last week he tried to commit suicide† (Ernest Hemingway pg. 372) We only learn about the old man through conversation between the waiters. The way Katherine Mansfield wrote â€Å"Miss Brill† she wrote a lot of details where you can imagine Miss Brill enjoying her fur. â€Å"She had taken it out of it’s box that afternoon, shaken out the moth powder, given it a good brush and rubbed the life back into the dim little eye.† (Katherine Mansfield pg. 562) It bought her back to life. â€Å"But today she passed the baker’s boy, climbed the stairs, went into the little dark room her room like a cupboard and sat down on the red eiderdown bed.† (Katherine Mansfield pg. 565) She also uses a lot ofShow MoreRelatedTheme of Loneliness1240 Words   |  5 PagesLONELINESS The dark intense feeling of loneliness is an element of life that is inevitable to all people on a global level. To me it is like a parasite, is a virus eating away at the soul. ‘Of Mice and Men’, by Steinbeck exemplifies the loneliness of life on a Californian Ranch. John Steinbeck accomplishes this through characters as well as name of the town. A theme should be present during every element of the story, there are many themes that are present most of the way such as friendship butRead MoreLoneliness Theme1121 Words   |  5 PagesLoneliness Faces All In John Steinbeck’s novel, Of Mice and Men, he illustrates the journey George and Lennie have throughout a significant part of their lifetime. Throughout the novel, many characters, including George and Lennie, are facing lonesome and they struggle to deal with it the right way. Most of the men are all alone because they have no family left or they isolate themselves from their peers. Loneliness touches each character at some point in the novel and it really emphasizes the impactRead MoreThemes Of Loneliness And Solitude1331 Words   |  6 PagesTony Samson Mrs. Maddox English 9 9 September 2016 Themes of Loneliness and Solitude in The Samurai’s Garden I.Introduction: A: Hook- Many view loneliness and solitude with distaste, why would someone want to be without the company of others? B: Bridge- Being alone and isolated is seen as dark and dismal. In Gail Tsukiyama’s The Samurai’s Garden the main character, Stephen, is apprehensive as he travels to the village of Tarumi. He had been there a few timesRead MoreTheme Of Loneliness In Mice Of Men725 Words   |  3 Pagestalk to.† In the book Mice of Men by John Steinbeck he expresses loneliness through many of his characters in his book. Loneliness is a theme that is throughout the story that so many characters had. Their loneliness can let us see that characters in a different light and Steinbeck wants the reader to see. George, Crooks, and Curley’s Wife are characters that have loneliness that festers inside of them in different ways. Loneliness can come from many different things and take many different shapesRead MoreThe Theme Of Loneliness In Of Mice And Men816 Words   |  4 PagesOf Mice and Men, one of his more serious novellas. In his novella, Of Mice and Men, John Steinbeck uses the characters Crooks, Curleys wife, and Candy to contribute to the overall theme of loneliness. To begin, Steinbeck uses Crooks, the stable hand who is discriminated against, to contribute to the theme of loneliness. Crooks is so highly discriminated against because he is the only black man on the ranch, and is tired of being by himself all the time. Crooks explains, â€Å"Spose you didnt haveRead MoreTheme Of Loneliness In Of Mice And Men998 Words   |  4 Pages In Of Mice and Men, John Steinbeck utilizes loneliness as an overarching theme, there is however one character that is noticeably longer than the others in Steinbecks novella. This character is Crooks, a bitter and aloof man, he used to have a family with brothers and a 10 acre chicken ranch. Now he lives the life of a stable buck isolated by his race (he is the only African American on the ranch) among other things (Steinbeck,2002). This loneliness truly characterises him and causes no end toRead MoreOf Mice and Men - Theme of Loneliness1641 Words   |  7 Pagesand Men - Theme of Loneliness Controlled Assessment - Of Mice and Men Of Mice and Men’ is written by John Steinbeck. The novel is set in the 1930s during the great depression in California, America. Loneliness is the consistent theme running through the novel, relating as it does to the other themes namely: broken dreams and prejudice. Steinbeck illustrates through Curleys wife, Candy, and Crooks, three main characters of the novel the great negative effect of loneliness on humansRead MoreThe Theme Of Loneliness In Of Mice And Men1919 Words   |  8 Pagesbunkhouses with the rest of the workers, but lives in the barn with the animals. Solely based on the color of his skin. Noticeably, in the novella, Candy, Curley’s wife, and Crooks are all outcasts on the ranch and gradually reveal the powerful themes of loneliness. In chapter three, an older migrant worker called Candy explains to George how he lost his hand on the ranch and was compensated with a â€Å"swampin’† job and 250 dollars. Because of Candy’s older age, readers can infer that he has outlivedRead MoreOf Mice and Men - Theme of Loneliness Essay609 Words   |  3 PagesOf Mice and Men by John Steinbeck is book of many themes; one that is very prominent is loneliness. Loneliness is common in many peoples lives and that is also true for the lives of the characters of the book. Almost all characters in the book are lonely in one way or the other. The main characters of the book are George and Lennie. Even though these two seem to have each other, they are both lonesome in a way. Lennies mental retardation isolates him from many people. George is the only personRead MoreCarson Mccullers Themes Of Loneliness And Isolation1356 Words   |  6 Pages More than half a century later, Carson McCullers’ themes of loneliness and isolation still speak to today’s readers. The work â€Å"Reflections In a Golden Eye†of Carson McCullers drew a lot of criticism, but was anything but unsuccessful. Carson McCullers’ problems with her health and family brought upon manors of writing, she expressed her loneliness and isolation, showing issues relating to bisexuality, infidelity, hostility, and murder. Lastly she made a large impact in the readers and other

Hungary’s Economic Crisis Free Essays

Last year, â€Å"Promising economic indicators† is a headline in the front page of a Hungarian newspaper. The economists, government representatives and many politicians said that Hungary’s economy is growing. Growing half times as it should be. We will write a custom essay sample on Hungary’s Economic Crisis or any similar topic only for you Order Now In reality and if economics can only speak, Hungary was in big trouble and in the verge of economic collapse last year. The economic crisis of Hungary led the resignation of Prime Minister Ferenc Gyurcsany. Now, Hungary’s population is looking for the proper replacement for their Prime Minister. And they hope that whoever would be their Prime Minister will help them regain their economic stability. As economic crisis still exists in the country, many believed that the major factor that would determine the economic stability is its policies regarding their pensioners. Hungary’s total population of pensioners totaled for about 3 million which is about one-third of the whole population. Aside from supporting these pensioners, the government also pays for special benefits to accident victims, military and police veterans. The problem boils down to the public spending and finances. Pension is a heavy obligation that Hungary’s government is shouldering because of their policy regarding pensioners. Reforming the policy is not an option for the Socialist party of Gyurcsany because they protect the Socialist voting percentage which is mainly composed of retirees. Solutions should be done and we should try anything possible that will be in great help for the recovery of the nation. Possible solution is to cut the pension received by the retirees into much lesser amount. This would definitely be a great help in the recovery. One another option is to limit the pensions to those in proper age of retirees and not to those who were only taken their opportunity of having their pension because of undersized accidents. In the end, all should be working for the progress and recovery of this nation, not only the officials but also the people that are the ones greatly affected by the economic crisis. Any solutions can be beneficial and should be tried. How to cite Hungary’s Economic Crisis, Papers

Early Black Leaders of America free essay sample

American History Early Black Leaders of America In history, It Is a proven fact that leader Is to lead In everything that we do In our daily lives. During the civil rights times on into the current time, there were black leaders ot America that changed the world. Many black leaders paved the way tor many of African Americans today and some died for us. Their ideas, tactics, and solutions for problems faced by blacks were significant. The three black leaders of America I will be discussing are Fredrick Douglas, Malcom X. end Martin Luther King. First, Fredrick Douglas was a prominent American abolitionist, author and orator. Born a slave, Douglass escaped at age 20 and went on to become a world-renowned antislavery activist. HIS three autobiographies are considered important works of the slave narrative tradition as well as classics of American autobiography Douglass work as a reformer ranged from his abolitionist activities In the early 1840s to his attacks on Jim Crow and lynching in the 1890s. We will write a custom essay sample on Early Black Leaders of America or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page For 16 years he edited an influential black newspaper and achieved International tame as an Insplrlng and persuasive speaker and writer. In thousands of speeches and editorials, he levied a powerful indictment against slavery and racism, provided an indomitable voice of hope for his people, embraced antislavery politics and preached his own brand of American ideals. econd, Malcom x was an actlvlst and outspoken public voice of the Black Muslim faith, challenged the mainstream civil rights movement and the nonviolent pursuit of Integration championed by Martin Luther King Jr, He urged followers to defend themselves against white aggression by any means necessary. Malcolm became an influential leader of the Nation of Islam, which combined Islam with black nationalism and sought to encourage and enfranchise disadvantaged young blacks searching for confidence in segregated America. After Malcolm Xs death in 1965, his bestselling book The Autobiography ot Malcolm X popularized his Ideas, particularly mong black youth, and laid the foundation for the Black Power movement of the late 1960s and 1970s Last, Martin Luther King played d key role In the American clvll rights movement from the mid-1950s until his assassination in 1968. Inspired by advocates of nonviolence such as Mahatma Gandhi, King sought equality tor Atrlcan Americans, the economically disadvantaged and victims of injustice through peaceful protest. He was the driving force behind watershed events such as the Montgomery Bus Boycott nd the March on Washington, which helped bring about such landmark legislation as the Civil Rights Act. The use of his mouth was his most powerful weapon and it worked well. I picked the three leaders because they were the most influential to me. These men are the Mount Rushmores of the black American leaders and I think they really were people to look up to. Their Ideas, tactics, and solutions worked well as we witness In nlstory. some people are Dorn to lead ana tnese tnree men were oennltely born to do that.

Forbes 10 EdTech Companies to Watch in 2017

is excited to be included in Forbes 10 EdTech Companies to Watch in 2017! is excited to be alongside 9 other EdTech companies who are all working on amazing platforms to achieve impactful and affordable student success. Check out the full Forbes list here!The team is especially excited to be on this list with the launch of our newest data features. Havent checked them out yet? Let us give you a brief rundown:1. Matching AlgorithmWeve been working hard to deliver our newest recommendation engine to match you with students who share your interests and background. With this matching algorithm, well be able to recommend profiles of college students who are majoring in your intended field, scored similarly on standardized tests, or are from your home town. Discover schools not on your radar based on these matches and read their advice on what made them stand out.2. Advice SearchNavigating the application process can be convoluted. From putting together a college list and asking for reco mmendation letters to negotiating financial aid and finding the right college social scene, our Advice Search leverages our college student insights to help you figure it out. We draw from our database of 70,000+ college application files, which house thousands of personal statements and advice responses. Sample Search: How should I ask for recommendation letters?†3. Essay MatchingWhether youre still brainstorming the perfect personal statement or already have a first draft, use this platform at any stage of your application essay writing process to find similar admissions essays. Stage 1: Choosing an Essay Topic Many experts advise students against writing about depression, family members going to jail, or other extremely personal, touchy topics. These essay topics can come across as too melodramatic, but that doesnt mean thats how you have to approach your essay. Discover how other college applicants who wrote about potentially controversial or sensitive topics tackled the essays and whether they were successful. Similarly, if youve chosen a common essay topic, browse past essay examples to see how you can turn a potentially overdone topic into a stand-out essay. Sample Search: I want to write about my familys financial struggles. It was a difficult time, but that environment made me admire my parents work ethic and also taught me a lot about perseverance. Nothing is ever just handed to you, and I want to highlight my strength, passion and tenacity. Stage 2: Writing Drafts Already have a draft? Use the platform to find profiles with similar essays and see how successful those college students were at their target schools. Read several essays to inform how you want to (re)structure your own. You can also read their advice about choosing an essay topic and how to differentiate yourself in your essay. Stage 3: Final Version Finally, use the platform to make last minute tweaks to your personal statement. Whether its formatting, word choice, or improving the concluding sentence, our student profiles will be able to help you craft the best version of your own college application. Excited about the new features? Log in and give it a try! If you dont have an account yet, create a free account here. Youll have access to the new data features, data insights and a free profile every month! For unlimited access of our database, upgrade to our premium plan.

Corporate governance Essays

Corporate governance Essays Corporate governance Essay Corporate governance Essay Health Care in the United States is a vast industry that has many different types of people involved in the delivery of care. There are stakeholders that affect the daily operations of health care and they are not necessarily in a hospital setting. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, AHRQ, defines a â€Å"stakeholder† as persons or groups who have a vested interest in the clinical decision and the evidence that supports that decision (Effective health care, 2011, p. 1). These stakeholders are making decisions that impact costs, procedures, and the future of their company. Three examples of stakeholders in the health care industry are the board of directors, the executive management team, and lenders and investors. Board of Directors The Board of Directors are individuals who are elected or appointed to jointly oversee the activity of a company, in this case, a hospital. These individuals are at the top of the overall health care industry. They may or may not have any health care experience. The people on the Board of Directors decide on important choices that are designed to make the hospital prosperous and able to deliver health care to the patients who need the specialties offered by the hospital.

Basic skills for managerial success Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Basic skills for managerial success - Essay Example The targets focus on the number of consultants that generates revenues for the organisation. His managerial function also involves motivating his team members to perform their work at the highest possible level for the benefit of the team and the organisation. Since the company is a target-driven organisation, the manager's major functions also involve monitoring and correcting the activities of his members through weekly reports and meetings. According to Daft and Marcic (2001), the general definition of management is the achievement of desired organisational goals in a manner that is efficient and effective. In order to achieve these goals, a manager must perform different functions of planning, organising, leading and controlling organisational resources. A manager must know how to learn what is valued, what would be of more value, and what will be valued by customers and users. (Parr, 1992) Planning involves setting goals and deciding how to best achieve these goals. It helps the organisation set its future objectives and map out activities that are necessary to attain these goals. Plans are created as guide for the organisation to obtain and commit the resources needed to reach its goals. This also serves as a framework where members of the organisation carry on activities which are consistent with the chosen objectives and procedures. Plans are necessary in order to measure and monitor the progress towards the achievement of the objective. (Mintzberg, 1994) Organising is assigning responsibilities for the accomplishment of tasks. Organising also includes allocation and arranging of organisational resources so that plans can be carried out successfully. These resources may include financial, physical, informational, technical and human resources. Leading is the manner of influencing other people to work towards the achievement of goals. Influence can be used to motivate people. Controlling is the manager's role of monitoring activities and making corrections. It is also considered as regulating activities to reach the desired goals. (Daft & Marcic, 2008) In association to the general definition of management, it is observed that the middle manager interviewed for this paper has performed the different functions of management. The planning function is demonstrated through his setting of the team's targets for the month and creating work strategies focused on achieving the targets. The manager follows the principles of management by objectives. (Hindle, 2003) The organising function is exhibited through assigning team members to meet with clients and prospects on a daily basis, in order to create business transactions. The leading function of the key account manager is best displayed when the manager motivates his people to perform exceptionally and creates a happy and healthy work environment. The controlling function is shown through weekly monitoring as well as business improvement meetings and brainstorming. The manager monitors the team members through a feedback mechanism and reports. Such reports will be compared with the expected results or targets. Corrective actions are made in order to put the members back on its track of achieving the desired objectives of the month. Effective managers are concerned with accomplishments where they set standards of performance, pursue aggressive goals and work hard to

Self-esteem (Literature Review) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 1

Self-esteem (Literature Review) - Essay Example d concept which has developed over time and it depicts the quality of an individual because of which he can cope up with the strenuous tasks that come in his/her way. The concept evolved because of many things which lay in the very core of self leadership but the ground substance for self leadership has been the raw material known as self esteem (Parker et al. 2005). A person with a higher self esteem is able to realize his/her concept of life and act accordingly and thus he can tackle different situations of life and act as a self leader (Alavi & Askaripur 2003; Neck 2006). This literature review would further revolve around the concept of self esteem in relation to self leadership and would provide a critique on it. Moreover it would also make recommendations for the future research on the concept along with the implications for contemporary human resource practice. Self-esteem is a broad topic which is closely related to the framework given by the Social Cognitive theory. It can be described as an individuals feeling and assurance of his own self. In other words it can be known to be the self worth of an individual. Social Cognitive Theory helps to figure out the factors which lead to the variations in self-esteem. The concept that the social cognitive theory lays about one’s own thinking and perspective about his surroundings is widely acclaimed. This thinking and perspective about the surroundings which one goes through majorly affects the thoughts and personality one has. Similarly this also leads to develop the feeling of self-esteem accordingly. Self efficacy forms an important part of the understanding of different individuals in this world. It helps one to recognize his strengths and weaknesses accordingly. A well-known psychotherapist Nathaniel Branden provides a somehow complete definition of self-esteem as â€Å"Self-esteem is the disposition to experience oneself as being competent to cope with the basic challenges of life and of being worthy of

Management Essay on Labor Relations Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Management on Labor Relations - Essay Example This can be done through involving the workers in decisions they make hence making the workers comfortable while working. Moreover, through sociology, the labor relations can be added insight by ensuring that workers are subjected to better working conditions. These can be given through ample time to rest and paying them incase they are working overtime. Other issues could include paid holidays, office retreats among others. Sociology can contribute to labor relations by ensuring that workers have better pays. That is they are paid according to their level of education, as well as being granted promotions where necessarily. It is also important that they are given an opportunity to involve and engage themselves in unions where they can share experiences as per their job descriptions. 2. Think about a job you have performed and discuss some of the external variables that influenced the work rules required on that job. There are several external variables that influence the work rules, they include; upcoming opportunities, social group, family and personal influences. Upcoming opportunities that people come across outside their current working places, and want to try them. They find better paying jobs, which at times tempt them to move to greener pastures. The family plays a big role as it helps influence the individual in areas of interest especially in sales with different family members giving encouragements and advices (Wolters, et al 6). Social group is another external variable that helps through the form of interactions with one another. These social groups have many functions especially in shaping the perspective of the customer and sales person’s behavior. Personal influences are important external variables as they help individuals in self realization in terms of communications with other people. This greatly affects the diffusion process especially in sales. 3. The text outlines three basic assumptions underlying the labor relations process in t he United States. To what extent do you agree or disagree with these assumptions? Does your response differ depending on whether you think about the question from the perspective of an employer or an employee? I agree with the three assumptions that are underlying in the labor relations process, in the United States. This is because there has always been a conflict of interest in the economic system with the employees and employers struggling to meet and advance their own self –interests (Wolters, et al 7). Essentially, most of the interests of the employees are done through the collective bargain process as they seek to advance on their salaries, working conditions and the security of their jobs. On the other hand, the employers seek to maximize their returns on the capital invested, as well as, improving their economic status. All these issues have led to the sustainability of organizations, which cannot be done without both parties. However, thinking from the employeesâ₠¬â„¢ perspective, the employers need to understand the employees with more cautiousness than they have done in these assumptions. They should give them the freedom to be in unions and include them in most of the decision making process of the organizations because organizations cannot operate without a work force. 4. Discuss your opinion

Unilever Business Strategy

Unilever Business Strategy Jump to: SWOT Analysis of Unilever | Unilever BCG Matrix  |  Unilever PESTEL  | Unilever Financial Analysis | Unilever Competitors This is a case study on Unilever business strategy. It would seek to analyze the strategic position of the group with the help of SWOT, PEST and BCG Matrix models. The paper would critically assess the competitive situation of the company in relation to other major product based companies in the market and companys financial performance and key issues. In the end it would submit few recommendations. The case study is my first effort towards analyzing the business strategy of Unilever and its success in the market. Since Unilever is so famous and its products so widely used all over the world, it is of great interest for me to carry out a case study on its business strategy. The paper would greatly help me and the readers to understand some key issues concerning Unilever in todays business world. Introduction 2.1. About Unilever Unilever is a multi-national corporation, formed of Anglo-Dutch parentage that owns many of the worlds consumer product brands in foods, beverages, cleaning agents and personal care products. Unilever employs nearly 180,000 people and had worldwide revenue of almost à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬40 billion in 2005. Unilever is a dual-listed company consisting of Unilever NV in Rotterdam, Netherlands and Unilever PLC in London, England. This arrangement is similar to that of Reed Elsevier and that of Royal Dutch Shell prior to their unified structure. Both Unilever companies have the same directors and effectively operate as a single business. The current non-executive Chairman of Unilever N.V. and PLC is Michael Treschow while P Mr Paul Polman is the Group Chief Executive. The company is widely listed on the worlds stock exchanges (About Unilever: 2008). 2.2. History Unilever was founded in 1930 through merger by the British, Lever Brother; and the Dutch, Margarine Unie; now Unilever PLC in London, U.K and Unilever N.V in Rotterdam, Netherlands respectively. In 1872 before the merger, Jurgens and Van den Bergh, the Dutch, built factory in Netherlands for the production of Margarine made from milk and fact. In 1927, they formed Margarine Unie (margarine Union) together with two European Businesses, Centre and Schicht. Lever Co on the other hand was founded in 1884 by British William Hesketh Lever and his brother, James, and was producing soap Sunlight soap for people in England especially for women. William Lever wrote: to make cleanliness commonplace; to lessen work for women; to foster health and contribute to personal attractiveness, that life may be more enjoyable and rewarding for the people who use our products. In 1890, Lever Co become limited company known as Lever Brothers (Uhomhoabhi, Fredrick Albert: 2008) Unilever, Unilever N.V and Unilever PLC comprise Unilever group. Both companies have the same directors. Its annual turnover in 2005 was à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬39.672 billion and employs206, 000 employees around the world.1 Unilever brands consist of Food, Beverage, and Home and Personal Care. Some of these products are Knorr, Breyers and Magnum, Lipton, Omo (detergent) etc. Knorr has the biggest sales of à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬2.3 billon in 2005.In May 2007 it became the first tea company to commit to sourcing all its tea in a sustainable manner, asking the Rainforest Alliance, an international environmental NGO, to start certifying its tea estates in East Africa. It declared its aim to have all Lipton Yellow Label and PG Tips tea bags sold in Western Europe certified by 2010, followed by all Lipton tea bags globally by 2015. Covalence, an ethical reputation ranking agency, placed Unilever at the top of its ranking based on positive versus negative news coverage for 2007. In 2008 Unilever was honor ed at the 59th Annual Technology Engineering Emmy Awards for Outstanding Achievement in Advanced Media Technology for Creation and Distribution of Interactive Commercial Advertising Delivered through Digital Set Top Boxes for its program Axe. Strategic position of the company The strategic position of the company shall be analyzed through following techniques: 3.1. S.W.O.T Analysis The overall evaluation of a companys strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats is called SWOT analysis. In general, a business unit has to monitor key macro environment forces (demographic-economic, technological, political-legal, and social-cultural) and significant microenvironment actors (customers, competitors, distributors, suppliers) that affect its ability to earn profits. The business unit should set up a marketing intelligence system to track tends and important developments. For each trend or development, management needs to identify the associated opportunities and threats. (S)trengths Recognized as a global company. Strong brand portfolio. Strong relationship with retailers Economies of scale. Corporate social behavior Variety of products (W)eaknesses Dual leadership Limited costumer connection Inefficient management of brands Inability to maximize acquisitions Lack of control in the market Reduced spending on RD (O)pportunities Changing consumer preferences Increasing need for healthy products Low income consumers Rapid increase in population (T)hreats Decrease in revenue Strong competition(PG) Tougher business climate Exchange rates Economic crisis Increase in production and labor cost 3.2. BCG Matrix Stars(High market growth share) Lux Sunsilk Walls ice cream Fair lovely Rafhan Energile AXE Vasline PG tips Dogs(Low market growth share) Wheel detergent Supreme tea Lifebuoy shampoo Cash cows(Low growth High share) Surf excel Ponds Lipton Close up Blue band Dove soap Rexona Knorr Question marks(High growth low share) Clear shampoo Rin Comfort Ben Jerrys Persil 3.3. PESTEL Analysis 3.3.1. (P)olitical/Legal environment Unilever, as a matter of policy, set a standard as to the way of tackling political issues. Unilever has its tactical way of handling political issues. First, in the 1960s, many countries began to nationalize foreign firms which also affected Unilever. This was a call for local equity participation in foreign firms. Thus, so many companies were subject to local control on prices, imports, employment of expatriates and so on. As a result of the adverse effect of nationalization policy, in the 1970, many US companies e.g. IBM and coca cola left India. There was fear by foreign companies uncertain issues such as knowledge leakage, loss of trademark etc. this was also hazardous for Unilever as its control over operation in the market was reduced. For example UAC, a subsidiary of Unilever, whose operation was in many African countries (Cameroon, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Nigeria, etc.), was focused on as its profit margin and rate of easy remittance of profit to its Anglo-Dutch parent was enorm ous. Nationalizing UA Chambered Unilevers control over the market where UAC operates. However, Unilever uses its experience and goodwill to make contacts in many countries to bargain with government so as to modify their regulations. In central and south America, Unilever only engaged in lobbying rather than active politicking. In other words, Unilever never get involved in sponsoring political parties. Today, Unilever has gained political ground using its tactical strategy and experience. Unilever is a member of many organizations all over the world. The aim is to create favorable business environment, and also facilitate corporate reputation management. 3.3.2. (E)conomic environment Unilever market environment is becoming highly competitive especially in the Western Europe. Procter Gamble (PG) is one of the major competitors in the European market. More so, there are so many discounters in the European market resulting from EU free trade policy. This has had adverse effect on Unilevers profit potentials. Retailers are pressurizing FMCG producers to reduce prices of their products. Consumers on the other hand would not want to buy expensive product or brands due to current economic tide. Competition in EU has grown so strong that Unilever is facing difficulties in places like France, Netherlands. In the developing countries and the emerging economies (Asia and Africa), where there are political instability, Unilever has adopted its company strategy to ensure that its profitability drive is sustained. Some Products are packaged in small size for low or regular income earner, for affordability. In some developing countries, Nigeria to be precise, there was uncertainty about duties to be paid by companies due to inflation and fluctuation of currency. The effect on Unilever was a decrease in profit in 2005 compared to 2004, though there was increase in turnover. 3.3.3. (S)ocio-cultural environment Unilever has continued to maintain momentum in its socio-cultural environment in line with its sustainability drive. The company is working relentlessly to bring improve hygiene and better nutrition to people in Asia, Africa and Latin America, especially the poor and obesity. Over 30% of Africa population lives on less than $1 per day. By this, Unilever strengthens it goodwill. However, the low literacy of consumers affects marketing vehicles such as advertisement in print media. This therefore requires employment of more resources, for instance to enhance face-to-face communication. Besides, Unilever employs about 100 nationalities. It ensures that diversity works for everybody both employees and consumer alike. In order to achieve and ensure that diversity works amongst employees, Unilever employed the strategy of so as to manage and leverage diversity. Unilever is focused on building an exclusive culture and embracing difference, which resulted in high demand of its products in th e developing and emerging markets. 3.3.4. (T)echnological environment Right in the 1930s, Unilever continue to diversify. Business continue to boom in the1950s with new technology being invented to boast production and enhance quality products for consumer, competitors improving their products using new inventions. Unilever did not give up its effort in RD. Since 2000, Unilever has been spending on IT to improve its business especially in the area of e-business so as to improve brands communication and market through internet, making transaction simple along chain. Today, Unilever is trying to minimize cost through IT efficiencies at global level. In addition, Unilever Technology Venture works in collaboration with Unilever RD group to help Unilever meet consumers needs. Area of concern is genomics, advanced bioscience, advanced materials science and nanotechnology. In 2003, Unilever installed and commissioned pallet live storage system from Bitto Storage System Ltd. This was meant to store its frozen products. The facilities include: pallet live storage systems, carton live storage systems, pallet racking, boltless shelving, plastic bins and containers, wide span and heavy load shelving, cantilever racking, and multi-tier shelving systems. 3.3.5. (E)nvironment In recognition of local legislation and to keep its corporate responsibilities, Unilever designed management system. Unilever has respect for consumer health and safety. This policy is to ensure all Unilever operators establish a formal environmental management system. Training programs are being arranged in various regions/business groups to ensure compliance with the company Standard for Occupational Health and Safety Environmental Care (SHE). This framework is based on the ISO 14001 management standard. Unilever had also worked in conjunction with government of countries of its operation as regards waste management. For instance in Ghana, 2004, over 21 tones of wastes were supplied to small and medium size recycling businesses in Accra, Ghana, by Unilever to reduce the amount of plastic waste sent to landfill. Financial performance Underlying sales growth of 7.4% was partly offset by movements in exchange rates (4.8%) and the net impact of disposals and acquisitions (1.4%). Including these effects, turnover was 40,523 million for the full year, increasing by 0.8%. Operating profit increased by 1,922 million to 7,167 million, including a higher level of profits on business disposals. These generated a pre-tax profit of 2,190 million in 2008, compared  with 297 million in 2007. Net profit was 28% higher than last year, boosted by the profits on disposals. Earnings per share were à ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬1.79, including a net gain of 0.36 from  RDIs. This compared with 1.35 last year, which included a net loss of 0.07 from RDIs. Net cash flow from operations at 3.9 billion was in line with last year. Total cash returns to shareholders in the year were 3.6 billion, made up of 2.1 billion of dividends and 1.5 billion of share buy-backs. 4.4. Financial Objectives Unilevers ambition is to top Third Total Shareholder Return, over a 3 year rolling period out of peer group of 20 other companies. Its outlook for year 2010 is: Un-geared free cash flow in the period 2005-2010 to be 25-30bn. Improvement in Return on Invested Capital. Underlying sales growth of 3-5% p.a. Operating margin of over 15% by 2010 after normal restructuring. Improved capital and tax efficiency. Market share and competition 5.3. Category position in the market Strategic Issues Following are some of the key strategic issues which Unilever faces today: 6.1. Leadership Unilever maintains two business entities i.e. Unilever PLC and Unilever N.V. Due to dual chairperson approach; it faces following problems in their business strategy: List stock separately Shared board of directors Typical management; wear two, three hats Conflict in Board and Business responsibilities Company remains fragmented Reduced effectiveness Slow decision making process( Bureaucracy) Unilever believer (believe in Unilever) Unilever should create a sense of belief amongst its consumers. It should try and focus on program that focuses on brand initiative to the consumers. Use advertising that connects with consumer needs: Consumers demand high quality products that are both convenient and delicious Consumers look for new ways to use the product Large population of single parent house hold More females are working full-time jobs Increase consumer focus on health and nutrition Strategy Justification 7.1. Recommendation 1 Make an initiative to create an overall umbrella brand across all Unilevers brands that will eventually consolidate various businesses under one name. Unilever Plc Unilever NV One Unilever Provides a greater clarity of leadership, responsibility, and accountability Allows Unilever to focus on the needs of their customers and consumers thus reigniting growth and increasing sales potential Provides the ability to leverage scale of operations Create a strategic platform for brand management Recommendation 2 It should implement Unilever Believer product and brand extensions. The related example in this case is of Lipton tea. It should try and create an extension to this famous brand by focusing on energy drinks. Justifications are: Energy drinks jumped 56% in sales last year Market has exceed $100 million in the recent years Main Competitor: Red Bull Positioning Statement: A Healthier Alternative to Energy Drinks Unilever should cash in this opportunity by: Target Market: Young adults 18-32 Uses: stay up all night and/or start a night out Main Ingredients: Caffeine, Vitamin B, Guarana Advertisements: Highlight healthier ingredients of the product while showcasing its ability to give energy and revitalize body

The Character of Caliban in Shakespeares Tempest Essay -- Essays on Sh

Caliban is one of the primary antagonists in William Shakespeare's play The Tempest. It is impossible to understand the Tempest without first understanding the character of Caliban. Through the exploration of the character of Caliban the reader gains an understanding of his importance within the play and that he is simply not just black and white, there is also a great deal of grey. It is the characters ambiguity that enables him to be human inside although appearing bestial on the outside. Caliban is a great example of a character being much more than one dimensional, almost to the point of being nearly a real person. While there is a great emphasis on the pure and the good, everyone has within them a darker side. Which is that of depravity and evil thoughts. This is what makes us human. It is how we deal with these thoughts and balance them that makes us a person. It is also the way in which this almost, 'alter ego' manifests itself to both to yourself and the rest of mankind, that distinguishes between good and bad people: 'This thing of darkness, I must acknowledge mine' Arguably, The Tempest is a play that focuses upon the character of Prospero and his power to punish verses his power to forgive. Many scholars believe that the play is also nearly an autobiographical work, written towards the end of Shakespeare's literary career. This idea is reinforced throughout the play, especially towards the end and in the epilogue: ?...my ending is despair, Unless I be relieved by prayer.? Epilogue: 15-16 And ?I'll break my staff, Bury it in certain fathoms in the earth, And deeper than did ever plummet sound I'll drown my book? 5:1:54-57 Therefore, our understanding of Caliban's position in th... ...our understanding of Caliban and The Tempest as a play is therefore one of great importance. He puts an angle on Prospero's character that other aspects of forgiveness and that of the wronged Duke simply do not cover. He shows up Prospero's faults and the fact that Prospero is only human, capable of anger, hatred, and punishing those who are guilty in his eyes. Works Cited Bevington, David. The Necessary Shakespeare Third Edition. United States: Pearson Education, Inc., 2009. Print. Cengage, Gale, Michael L. LaBlanc Ed.† The Tempest (Vol. 72) - Introduction." Shakespearean Criticism. Vol. 72, 2006. eNotes.com. 2003. 29 Oct, 2009. Shakespeare, William. The Tempest. The Complete Works of Shakespeare. Ed. David Bevington. 5th ed. New York: Pearson Longman, 2004. 1574-603.