The Cost Of Addiction / Substance Abuse Essay - 936 Words

Analysis of the Cost of Addiction/Substance Abuse Stevens Smith (2013) ascertain that alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs have cost $180-$484 billion dollars annually, yet that dollar estimate does not include what damage it causes to the family and victims of substance abuse users. In contrast, research indicates to use caution when deciphering the costs of substance abuse due to new data that is constantly changing (Single, 2009). Furthermore, some associated costs may not be reported because medical community is constantly evolving and potential links to deaths caused by substance abuse is continual (Single, 2009). What cannot be measured is the damage to the substance abuser’s family relationships and friends. The stress the abuser places on their family may also cause more rising health costs that could possibly remain unreported in the overall cost assessment. Literature suggests that approximately one-half of United States citizens reported that up to three family member s had firsthand knowledge of someone related to them having a substance abuse problem (Hussaarts, Roozen, Meyers, Van de Wetering, McCrady, 2012). Additionally, it has been calculated that for every individual with a substance abuse problem, up to five close relatives or friends will be negatively impacted in various life areas (Hussaarts, et. al. 2012). Therefore, there is a dollar amount associated with the effects of substance abuse as well as causing a multitude of problems for the abuser’sShow MoreRelatedIllegal Substance Abuse And Addiction1196 Words   |  5 PagesIllegal substance abuse and addiction can have far-reaching negative impacts that affect not only the people who abuse drugs but also their friends, family members, the community, and government resources. Substance abuse can lead to domestic violence, child abuse, suicide, crime, automobile accidents, sexually transmitted diseases, HIV/AIDS, and unwanted pregnancy. A particular area of concern of drug use and abuse is the impact of methamphetamine (meth) labs on public safety and the environmentRead MoreDrug Testing for TANF Recipients1020 Words   |  4 PagesDrug problems costs the US billions of dollars every year from disease, crime, accidents, child abuse, domestic violence, homelessness, and lost wages that causes deaths and other serious economic and social consequences (Hunter). The crimes include stealing, drug trafficking, murder, robbery, domestic violence, breaking and entering, child abuse and neglect, and assault. Health care problems, such as overdoses, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, and tuberculosis, are often results of substance abuse. Requiring drugRead MorePrescription Drug Abuse And Addiction : Past, Present And Future874 Words   |  4 Pagesarticle Prescription Drug Abuse and Addiction: Past, Present and Future: The Paradigm for an Epidemic written by P. B. Hall MD, DABAM, AAMRO, Denzil Hawkinberry II, MD, DABA, Pam Moyers-Scott, PAC, MPAS, DFAAPA as more and more individuals are abusing and becoming addicted to prescription medications. The article provides a great amount of statistical data for the US but is primarily focused on the population in West Virginia where Governor Joe Manchin III states, â€Å"Substance abuse affects a broader segmentRead MoreSubstance Abuse And Its Effects On Society1285 Words   |  6 PagesSubstance abuse has existed since the start of civilization and it is an ever present entity in the modern era as well. Distilled beverages were the main drinking source in many cases even safer to drink than water in early civilizations, for instance during the Middle Ages. Many substances were also used in medicine derived from certain plants for anesthetics such as opioids from poppy seeds. In addition, nicotine and tobacco products and other hallucinogenic substances were used for recreationalRead MoreUnderstanding Drug Use And Addiction. The National Institute1116 Words   |  5 P agesUnderstanding Drug Use and Addiction The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) describes addiction as a, â€Å"chronic disease characterized by drug seeking and use that is compulsive, or difficult to control, despite harmful consequences† (â€Å"Understanding Drug Use and Addiction,† 2016). Long-term use can effect and change a person’s ability to learn, judge, and make decisions. Stress, memory issues, and behavior problems are also common side effects of extended drug use. There is not one single factorRead MoreCurrent Trends in Drug and Alcohol Addiction Essay1469 Words   |  6 Pagesa staple of human consumption (Hanson, 2013, Para. 1). As the centuries passed alcohol and drugs became ingrained in the early cultures of recorded history, the Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, Chinese, and early Christians all utilized mind-altering substances in ceremony and celebration (Hanson, 2013, Para. 3). Today, drugs and alcohol still play an active role in societies around the world. Yet, governments in the majority of these societies have strict prohibitions against certain drugs, and limitationsRead MoreThe Effects Of Drug Abuse On American Soil Essay1539 Words   |  7 PagesIn a day and age where there is no clear or apparent bad guy, the United States battles an elusive foe on our home soil. The current epidemic of drug abuse claims the lives of thousands of Americans without any discrimination or bias. The decades old â€Å"war on drugs† has done little to hinder the devastating carnage of widespread drug abuse decimating today’s youth. This affliction hits home for almost all of us to at least some extent. The enemy is known, we as a country however have yet to deviseRead MoreEssay about Substance Abuse Recovery824 Words   |  4 PagesDespite the higher cost, a high-end substance abuse treatment center does not constitute better treatment. The support of therapists, counselors, family, friends, and peers can all be important factors in the recovery process. The most significant factor for an individual in the recovery process is a desire and a willingness to change. Many options exist for individuals that want to recover from addiction. These options include substance abuse rehabilitation centers and support groups such as AlcoholicsRead MoreAddiction Is The Most Common Addiction991 Words   |  4 PagesAddiction is more of a condition than a disease, and can be considered to be a behavioral disorder that stems from personal choice. Addiction is a controversial issue, and many people debate on whether addiction is seen as a disease or a personal choice. There has been many studies that have proven addiction to be a disease that stems from personal choice. Addiction is a chronic brain disease that causes habitual drug use ( Drug abuse, 2012). Over time the brain changes, and the person who is addictedRead MoreThe Nations Drug Problem Essay1607 Words   |  7 PagesIt is also the most undesirable drug, as it costs the government over $20 0 billion in terms of productivity, health and crime-related costs (Office of National Drug Control Policy 2). Marijuana, which accounts for over $100 billion in costs, is the next most common drug after alcohol. Drug addiction is not only in adults, but also in underage individuals. This means, the entire population is affected. The increased indulgence in drug and substance abuse has been associated with several issues, among

Analysis of A Good Man is Hard to Find by Flannery...

Analysis of A Good Man is Hard to Find by Flannery OConnor In Flannery OConnors A Good Man is Hard To Find, one is struck by the unexpected violence at the end of the story. However, if you re-read the story a second time, you will see definite signs that foreshadow the grotesque ending. The story begins with the typical nuclear family being challenged by the grandmother who doesnt want to take the vacation to Florida. She has read about a crazed killer by the name of the Misfit who is on the run heading for Florida. Unfortunately, she is ignored by every member of the family except for the little girl, June Star, who can read the grandmother like an open book. The fact that she admonishes Bailey, her son, of this Misfit†¦show more content†¦A strong foreshadowing imagery can be read into these lines. Knowing the definite ending of the story, the grandmother?s elaborate dress symbolizes a preparation for her coffin. When a person dies, they usually are dressed in their best outfit, just like the grandmother was dressed in what seeme d to be her Sunday best. A stronger foreshadowing is when O?Connor states the reason for the grandmother?s immaculate dress, in case of an accident, anyone seeing her dead on the highway would know at once that she was a lady. She herself predicts her own death. Unfortunately, she doesn?t know this yet. Although this is beyond the parameters of this essay, it is interesting that in the grandmothers mind wearing her best clothes prevent any misgivings about her status as a lady IF she was to die. But as the Misfit later points out, there never was a body that gave the undertaker a tip. The grandmothers perceived readiness for death is a stark contrast to her behavior when she encounters the Misfit; for she shows herself to be the least prepared for death. As the trip progresses, the children reveal themselves as funny, spoiled brats. OConnors desire to illustrate the lost respect for the family and elders among the young is quite apparent in her illustrations of the children. One evidently notices another foreshadowing image when the familyShow MoreRelated Flannery OConnor: A Twentieth Century Fiction Writer Essay829 Words   |  4 PagesThere has been a significant amount critical analysis written about Flannery OConnors short stories and novels. There is a significant amount critical analysis about Flannery OConnor because she used so many styles that have not been used before. Flannery OConnor ranks among he most important American fiction writers of the twentieth century. Flannery OConnor was born in 1925 in Savannah, Georgia, and lived there until her family moved in 1938. OConnor and her family moved to a small Georgia farmingRead MoreA Good Man is Hard to Find by Flannery OConnor1196 Words   |  5 PagesA prolific writer, famously known as Flannery O’Connor in 1953, wrote the short narrative titled â€Å"A Good Man is Hard to Find† (Scott 2). However, it was published two years later in 1955, in her second collection of short stories. This particular collection presented the author as a key voice in the ancient American literature world until she met her sudden death in 1964 when she was only 39. The collection also won her tremendous fame, especially concerning her unmatchable creativity and masteryRead MoreThe Moral Structure Of Flannery OConnors A Good Man Is Hard To Find1148 Words   |  5 PagesWorks Cited Bonney, William. The Moral Structure of Flannery OConnors a Good Man Is . Studies in Short Fiction, vol. 27, no. 3, Summer90, p. 347. EBSCOhost, pulaskitech.idm.oclc.org/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=truedb=afhAN=9705041482site=ehost-livescope=site. The ten stories in Flannery O’Connor’s A Good Man Is Hard to Find circumscribe a moral and thematic center (Bonney). William Booney’s article was written as if the grandmother is actually grasping the savingRead MoreA Proposal1240 Words   |  5 PagesSeiter 1 Allison Seiter Introduction to Literature Brian Leingang April 1, 2013 A Proposal: A Good Man is Hard to Find In 1953, the short story â€Å"A Good Man is Hard to Find† was published in the anthology Modern Writing I by Avon Publications. Around the year 1955, a collection of short stories by Flannery O’Connor became published. The themes of these stories range from baptism to serial killers and then to human greed and exploration. For theRead MoreA Good Man Is Hard to Find OConner Essay example1745 Words   |  7 PagesFlannery OConners Analysis: A Good Man is Hard To Find A Displaced Person Through her assortment of unpalatable characters and violent actions, OConnor tries to show grace at work in the world. According to her beliefs Christ, the Incarnate Son of God, has shown that God so loved the world that He became man Himself. Yet this God is not accepted by men, so they have to be shocked into a recognition of their need for Him and the salvation He offers. (MAYER, 1976) In this analysis IRead MoreIdentify Irony in Flanners Oconnors a Good Man Is Hard to Find1421 Words   |  6 PagesThe Irony in Flannery O’Connor’s Irony is a significant rhetorical technique used in demonstrating a condition which is conflicting or expression whereby the result is the exact opposite of what is anticipated. This device of literature creates absurdity in the story according to its tone. Irony has an element of indirectness hence making the writing interesting to the reader. In the story of Flannery O’Connor’s â€Å"A Good Man is Hard to Find,† Irony has aided deeper comprehension and understandingRead MoreQuestions for Critical Thinking1690 Words   |  7 PagesQuestions for Critical Thinking A Good Man Is Hard to Find by Flannery O’Connor 1) What is the grandmother’s attitude toward the South as opposed to the rest of her family’s attitude, particularly her grandson’s? How do you account for the difference? In the short story â€Å"A Good Man is Hard to Find,† the grandmother’s attitude toward the South is that the â€Å"old South† was better than the current South. For example, in paragraph 14, John Wesley, the grandson, states â€Å"Let’s go through GeorgiaRead MoreDeep Rooted Work On A Hard Man1427 Words   |  6 PagesResearch Paper: Deep Rooted Work on a Hard Man Flannery O’Connor was born March 25, 1925, in Savanah, Georgia. She went to what is, now Iowa University and majored in literature. She’s primarily known for her short stories but was a novelist. Flannery O’Connor passed away in 1964 after losing a battle with lupus. The piece of writing that I will be discussing is titled: â€Å"A Good Man is Hard to Find,† she wrote this work in 1953 along with several other short stories (Biography.com Editors)Read MoreCompare/Contrast: A Good Man Is Hard to Find with Hills Like White Elephants917 Words   |  4 PagesCompare/Contrast: Good Man with Hills Currently, a plethora of outstanding stories have been written. What makes a story, though? The answer is the elements that the author includes into his or her writing, such as symbolism and imagery. Hills like White Elephants, written by Ernest Hemingway, and A Good Man is Hard to Find, written by Flannery OConnor, are just two examples of admirable work. Each writer incorporated plenty of elements to improve the story. Since the amountRead MorePsychoanalytical Criticism of â€Å"a Good Man Is Hard to Find†1403 Words   |  6 PagesPsychoanalytical Criticism of â€Å"A Good Man Is Hard To Find† A seemingly innocent family vacation can turn into a disaster if the members of the family only care about themselves. In the story â€Å"A Good Man Is Hard To Find† by Flannery O’Connor, a self-absorbed Grandmother, too consumed with her own opinions, fails to address the views, feelings and overall well being of others. Her family is not much different in their self-interested ways. This leads them straight to the Misfit whose childhood trauma

What is history Free Essays

Unpredictable yet calming, universal yet unique. It is a place that holds the unknown within the known. It’s complexity and creases of age, embody the qualities of both our known and unknown pasts. We will write a custom essay sample on What is history or any similar topic only for you Order Now Our history. While the oxford dictionary defines history as the study of past events, particularly in human affairs, my recent further analysis of our past and present world has entirely dismantled the idea that history can be defined by a statistical record of events, dates and figures but has rather enlightened me to the inability to restrict the idea of ‘history to one function. So, what Is history? The multifaceted nature of history, Is what links It so closely to the nature of the ocean; enforcing the fact that it is not one but many things. Upon analysis of Huffing Puffs controversial and exceedingly narrow-minded opinion that history should be taught and learnt with the â€Å"pivotal facts and dates† using the â€Å"root and branch renewal† of teaching, it has come to my attention that his explicit focus on the linear nature of history, arrogantly neglects the soul of what history actually Is. History Is constantly flowing and moving, there are an infinite number ways to define history. Huffing puffs ignorance, is embodied in the fact that history is not only about the what, but also, most importantly the where, who, why and how. History is who people were in the past and the personalities and opinions of those people. If history was Just pivotal facts and dates, decisions would not be made by the hundreds of choices people make to decide anything, they would Just happen automatically. People’s personalities and opinions effect what happened in the past o much that it would be foolish to disregard past people’s point of views as history. Equally as important is the culture in which people thrived at different times in the past. The Where. Culture is the soul of a society, the ideas, customs, and social behaviors that without, societies wouldn’t exist. Culture is what differentiates an Australian boy to a French one. It Is what separates the nature of Doll Hitler to Franklin Roosevelt. What culture does Is create varied perspectives. The why. Why do people make the decisions that they do? Why do different people have different views n war? Analyzing is history. But my discovery of history increasingly similar nature to that of the ocean, not only insights us to what history is, but the vital importance of studying it. History provides us the unique opportunity to reflect, learn and re-master mistakes from the past. It would be naive to neglect this convenience, which is history. Imagine if we TLD learn from war. Would nuclear bombs be detonating all over the globe due to lack of knowledge about Its protracted destruction? Would the united Nations not exist? Not only do we need to study history to fix or comprehend hat happened in the past, but to expand from the past. â€Å"-?I e. G. Technology e. G. Light bulb†. Innovation provides a reason to exist, a purpose. Making the world a better place, isn’t that what we all want to do? Huffing Puff obviously doesn’t think so. â€Å"People without the knowledge of there past history, origin and culture Is like a tree without roots. â€Å" How to cite What is history, Papers

Government of Industry Innovation and Science †MyAssignmenthelp

Question: Discuss about the Government of Industry for Innovation and Science. Answer: Introduction: The 21st century mining boom has had a massive boost to the Australian economy. Creation of wealth to most Australians has been diversified such that an addition of consumption generated through an increment in the purchasing power of the consumers. It means production capacities received a major uplift in various industries. As a result employment is created not only through the mining sector but also other supporting industries as well. Investments have generally risen because opportunities to undertake capital accumulation have opened up in the entire economy. More so, it has been guided by an increased investor confidence in the future direction of the market. The availability of more skilled labor is also a testament of the significance of mining to the entire economy of Australia (Costello Knights, 2013). With better prices, comes a better performance of the Australian Dollar in the market. It means that cheaper imports is possible while it enjoys expensive exports. Impressive ly, such expensive exports also involves direct mining products. In short, a favorable balance of trade has been realized such that a continuous growth of net exports is in place. In order to further expand the mining sector, government spending skyrocketed particularly centering on training labor as well as expanding mining supportive industries. Perhaps the most influential macroeconomic variables in the face of the mining boom were the inflation rates, interest rates, employment and unemployment. With an increase in the consumer spending thanks to the income earned, the inflation fell to an all-time low of 1.9% immediately (George, 2016). The whole economy was cushioned from the global financial crisis that was severe especially in the US and the Euro Zone. Secondly, while it generated physical assets like rails and ports, it made exploitation of resources easier which further opened up the economy hence creating more jobs hence a reduction to the unemployment. With the economy performing this better, the interest rates witnessed a reduction owing to the fact that more income meant that loan facilities were further curtailed. Mining boom can be conceptualized in terms of Keynesian Cross Model whereby the equilibrium level of national income can be determined. In this case, the aggregate demand is indicated by the vertical axis while the aggregate demand function is established by an upward sloping line (AD). From the diagram, the aggregate demand is positively sloping as a result of an increase in the disposable income. An increase in the consumer spending means that there is a corresponding increase in the aggregate demand. as a result, there will be an increase in the real GDP in which transfer payments and taxes remain fixed while arise in the disposable incomes experienced. Asset market and commodity market have also witnessed the influence of the 21st mining boom in Australia. For instance, since the economy saw building of ports, a path for exploitation of resources was created which further indicated that asset accumulation was a likely occurrence (Department of Mining Industry, 2017). On the same page, commodity market expansion stands on the same platform as well. In the above diagram, a boom in the mining industry brings more disposable income to the consumers. Consumer spending on the available goods and services rises. This means that the interest rates will then fall leading to an increase in the investments as well as employment and income. Most importantly, the equilibrium output rises as shown in the diagram LM1 moving to LM2. The boom witnessed in the mining industry is explained using a budget constraint that has the government expenditure rise from $50million to $100million generating more returns into the economy.in the budget line, consumers are able to choose from a higher price because the disposable income has risen as well. This implies that there is more output generated particularly through an increase in the disposable income (Poon et al, 2016). Consumers are able to spend more on the available good and services which further increases the surplus that is realized in the economy as shown by the shaded region The diagram above takes into account the increasing level of investments, increasing consumer disposable income, reduced interest rates as well as employment levels rising. Remotely, a rise in the consumer disposable income through a booming mining industry is important in shifting the LRAS curve to the right. It means production efficiency creeps in because a massive reduction of cost is experienced as well as losses from surplus production that the market cannot contain. More income means consumers move to ensure that supply meets demand that is in the market. There is lesser room for overproduction. In the same sense, there is an increase in the overall output in the market which still indicates a falling rate of unemployment as well. Taxation particularly reduces in output because the production cost rises as shown by the shift in the SRAS1 to SRAS2. Mining companies have to incur more expenses in the course of the production capacities. They are then transferred to the consumer in terms of recued earnings. This move has an effect of reducing the level of income in the entire economy which helps to fight inflation. However, it has a negative influence on employment. The boom experienced in the mining industry posed and still does pose a huge threat to the economic stability in terms of the money supply in the economy as shown by increasing levels of consumer disposable income. In response to this, the government adopted a couple of fiscal policies. For example, the government imposed a 5% tax on all mining incomes (Mudd, 2007). This was particularly important in cutting down the massive levels of income that consumers getting and the investors as well. Doing this was also important in ensuring that inflation was kept at very low levels. More so, there was also the adoption of a policy that involved spending up to $100million on exploration meant to replace the funds scooped through interest rate increases. On the monetary policy, it was adopted through setting of the base year inflation rates at under 2% in order to combat the increasing money supply that mining had brought in the economy. The achievement centered on capping the interest rates by the mining the companies. More so, according to Yeomans (2016), it is important to control investors which directly tackles the problem of over production. As more money streams into the economy, there are more concerns for the eventuality that is inflation. Consumers hence stand at the foot of destabilizing economy. While the government had to set higher interest rates of up to 5% on the mining incomes it meant that consumers were encouraged to save more, borrow less and ensure that there is less money supply in the economy which can as well stifle economic growth. Inflation is a bigger player in destabilizing the market based on this. In the diagram, when interest rates are increased, the aggregate demand falls which basically indicates that consumer disposable income is reduced shown by the shift from AD1 to AD2. There is lesser money to spending on the available goods in the market. More so, there will be a fall in the real GDP as well because production capacities are cut down as a result. The government policies adopted in the course of the market boom experienced through mining activities had a huge impact on the government deficit and debt with regard to the budget line. Essentially, a cyclical budget deficit takes into account the fluctuations in the spending in an economy as well as the level of fluctuations in the tax revenue. The boom in the mining industry in Australia actually did create a lot of revenue in the economy as a whole. This had a huge effect in easing government debt at the time. More so, theoretically, a boom in a particular sector has an effect of spreading in most parts of the economy with regard to growth particular of closely related sectors as well. Where the government. However, the fact that it is cyclical indicates that the economy will likely fall back into the same state that it was in before the boom was realized. This is not the case because the government made huge increase in the spending meant to diversify the industry with the chie f reason of creating more employment opportunities. This alludes to the practicality of the structural deficit control. From the above budget line, the original budget indicates the total expenditure before any changes were made by the government. Since, the economy experiences a boom in terms of the increasing returns, a both the structural and cyclical budget deficits take place. However, an addition of income in the economy means that they are in instead avenues of reducing the debt as well as the deficit. As a result, the new budget line will squeeze inwards showing that there is a more tendency for the budget to respond to the changes in the economic set up particularly the dynamism associated with it. Both the structural and cyclical debts/deficits have a similar impact with regard to taking the economy back to equilibrium by pointing to an increased revenue through the boom in the mining activities which eventually opens up the entire economy (Philips, 2017). References Mudd, G. M. (2007). The sustainability of mining in Australia: key production trends and their environmental implications. Department of Civil Engineering, Monash University and Mineral Policy Institute, Melbourne. Poon, A., Raval, S., Banerjee, B. P., Shamsoddini, A. (2015). Detection of Changes in the Wetland Conditions adjacent to a Longwall Mining Area in the Southern Coalfields, New South Wales Using Radar Satellite Data.Journal of Research Projects Review, 35. Costello, C., Knights, P. (2013). Grizzly Modifications at ridgeway deeps Block cave Mine. Mining Education Australia, 11. Department of Mining industry (2017). Australia's Mineral Commodities. Australian Government of Industry, Innovation and Science. Retrieved from: https://industry.gov.au/resource/Mining/Pages/default.aspx Philips, K. (2016). The mining boom that changed Australia. Australia Broadcasting Corporation. Retrieved from: https://www.abc.net.au/radionational/programs/rearvision/the-mining-boom-that-changed-australia/7319586 Yoemans, J. (2016). Australia's mining boom turns to dust as commodity prices collapse. The Telegraph. Retrieved from: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/newsbysector/industry/mining/12142813/Australias-mining-boom-turns-to-dust-as-commodity-prices-collapse.html George, M.W. (2016)."Mineral Commodity Summaries 2016"(pdf). Reston, VA: U.S. Geological Survey. pp.7071.

Globalisation free essay sample

Globalization is not a single concept that can be defined and encompassed within a set time frame, nor is it a process that can be defined clearly with a beginning and an end. Furthermore, it cannot be expounded upon with certainty and be applicable to all people and in all situations. Globalization involves economic integration; the transfer of policies across borders; the transmission of knowledge; cultural stability; the reproduction, relations, and discourses of power; it is a global process, a concept, a revolution, and an establishment of the global market free from sociopolitical control. Globalization encompasses all of these things. It is a concept that has been defined variously over the years, with some connotations referring to progress, development and stability, integration and cooperation, and others referring to regression, colonialism, and destabilization. Despite these challenges, this term brings with it a multitude of hidden agendas. An individual’s political ideology, geographic location, social status, cultural background, and ethnic and religious affiliation provide the background that determines how globalization is interpreted. We will write a custom essay sample on Globalisation or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page These are some of the factors that contribute to globalization, the internet, World Bank, worldwide satellite technology mass media and mobile phones, government investing in abroad bilateral aid, transnational more powerful than any state, shrinking world role of air transport super freighters. DEFINITIONS Larsson, (2001), stated that globalization is the process of world shrinkage, of distances getting shorter, things moving closer. It pertains to the increasing ease with which somebody on one side of the world can interact, to mutual benefit, with somebody on the other side of the world. Apart from that Globalization, is also a growing phenomenon that can be described as a â€Å"shift toward a more integrated and interdependent world economy† (Hill 7). Furthermore, Mirza. (2009). has his own definition which stipulates that Globalization as a process by which various cultures, societies and economies through a global network of trade and communication become integrated in all respects. Besides that Branson R. (2007) also says Globalization is the process by which geographic constraints on economic, social and cultural arrangements recede, thus increasing our global interdependence. The internet. The Internet provides a cheaper, faster and easier method of communication, an alternative that has created a â€Å"global audience† as articulated by Ruggiero, (2008, 06). In assessing the cost of long distance phone calls versus that of online voice chat sessions, the Internet is much more affordable and also superior in quality. Many web users now possess web cameras, microphones, and all the software necessary to support this hardware. This allows users to speak, see, and be seen by the person they are having a conversation with. People from Asia can carry conversations with Europeans, Americans or Africans at the same time, at no extra cost on Msn Messenger, Yahoo Messenger, or MIRC. Communication is also faster online. An e-mail is sent and received by the other party in seconds, as opposed to regular mail, which may take months to reach its destination when sent over the ocean. Thus, people all over the world can stay in touch on a regular basis, communicate online everyday and even share files. When factoring in the ease of use of the Internet, it is easy to see why so many individuals prefer communicating this way The role of internet has a lot to contribute to the economical aspect or impact of the media. With the share market and the online trading and banking facilities people have started shifting from the conventional ways of doing things to this modern easier and hustle-free method. The term globalization in economics is about the different aspects of cross-border transactions, free international capital flows, portfolio investments, diverse and rapid blending of technology. The theory of globalization states that it enhances prosperity in terms of the economic development of the country and leads to proficient allocation of resources, which in return leads to more employment higher standards of living, more outputs and lower prices, as mentioned in site: Globalization of Media. The internet facility provided by the media channels help the users (viewers) to be able to update themselves from wherever they are. The news provided through the internet is mostly updated at every instance and is more precise and easier to find than other sources of the media. The role of internet in the cultural and traditional aspect is quite prominent. Globalization has an immense effect on the cultures of the different countries, as mentioned in site. The Role of Media in the Society. It has always had a very deep impact on the cultural identity. The free flow of information, speedy progress in the field of technology, transportation and communication has converted this world into a â€Å"global village†. Cortwell says the internet played a key role for globalization to become possible. Before the internet was implemented for general use, small to medium enterprises were pretty much limited to the local market. For a company to go international it had to be big and that meant a considerable financial investment. Communication between businesses from different countries proved to be expensive and erratic at best. All of that changed when the internet became available to the public. The internet allowed businesses to grow and expand in ways that we only dreamed of a few years ago. The internet also paved the way for new businesses to be born. The internet made it possible for businesses around the world to reach out to each other and form partnerships. It allowed economies around the world to become more interconnected. Information between businesses was relayed with unprecedented speed and accuracy. This allowed for faster and more efficient delivery of products and services. The internet allowed businesses regardless of the scale to compete with bigger companies on a global scale. Businesses were able to reach and tap a broader market since they are no longer limited to the local market because of the distance or financial capacity. Besides that Cortwell further says the internet has definitely transformed the way the world does business from small to large scale ventures. Hence, it has not only encouraged the growth and innovation of an individual to earn profit but has also developed a sense of interconnectedness amongst countries doing such business: the kind of business we could have never imagined possible decades ago. The internet has had an important role in connecting people. It allows people in countries around the world to instantly contact each another through email, chat programs and video calls. This instant communication has revolutionized business and social lives. Satellites are also used to provide information on weather patterns around the world; tracking hurricanes or tropical cyclones. This information helps meteorologists make better predictions about the weather and also warn the public of any dangerous weather systems. In addition to the internet, mobile phones, voice mail, and text messaging allow instant contact across states and countries. In 2003, 31 percent of 10- to 14-year-olds owned a mobile phone and almost half of Australias 10- to 14-year-olds sent text messages every day. The World Bank. World Bank is an international organization whose original mission was to finance the reconstruction of nations devastated by world war two. Now, its mission has expanded to fight poverty by means of financing states. Its operation is maintained through payments as regulated by member states. Bank provides long term loans, grants, and technical assistance, to help developing countries implement their poverty reduction strategies. As such, World Bank financing is used in many different areas, from reform of health and education sector, to environmental and infrastructure projects, including dams, roads, and national parks. Low-Income Countries – Debt relief would be given to the low income countries and the process should get going vigorously. It is here that the World Bank has a vital role to play by working with governments and ensure strong governance, effective judicial systems, and a robust financial system. All these would help fight corruption. If these initiatives are not taken, attracting foreign and domestic investment would be difficult and thus globalization shall fall back upon us. Middle-Income Countries – Statistically, 80% of the worlds poor live in middle-income countries. These are the countries which require utmost help for a strong financial stability. For that, the structural and social reforms should be in place for the next stage of development. The mission of tackling global poverty is the main agenda and the only important tool to achieve overall development. World Bank focuses on, Giving advisory services, Creating the right policy and institutional framework, Addressing weaknesses in the social, structural, and spectral policies, secure long-term funding. World Bank provides loans to governments and public enterprises, always with a government (or sovereign) guarantee. The funds for this lending come from a combination of the repayment of past loans and the issuing of bonds on the global capital markets. It lends to countries at interest rates that are usually still quite attractive to them, by adding a small margin (about 1%) to its borrowing costs to cover administrative overheads ( Wolfensohn ,1995–2005). Worldwide satellite technology television and mobile phones. The television acts as an eye opener to the viewers. The role of television in the media globalization has made a remarkable impact on the society. There are both sides to it negative as well as positive. However, the positive effects of the television are being touched by the audience more than its negative points. In today’s world almost every house has an access to television and over the years the accessibility has increased immensely. This press media has become a source for promoting, projecting and supporting the process of providing information such as, news and cultural and traditional country views. In terms of political aspects the television has a lot to add to. The viewers can be made aware of the political issues sensitive topics concerning the nation. The television can provide its viewers with important facts and information concerning the democracy and the political system which can help us make better decisions as mentions in site: (Skinner, Alex amp; Hafz, Kai). At the same time it gives us the overall picture of what is happening in the rest of the world. A lot can be understood and adopted through movies as well. Movies depict the various issues of the society and politics and it greatly influences the viewers and a lot of the time leaves them thinking about the social and political issues and acts as an eye-opener. The economical aspect is highlighted by the television through advertisements and the news channels giving updates on the share market, brokers and stocks. The advertisement in a way makes us consumers and helps to make us aware of all the suitable options available for us in the market. This is not just restricted to advertisements of clothing or grocery but at the same time about pension plans and banks. In fact with television one needn’t always go to the stock markets or keep waiting for the newspaper for the stock conditions but can keep oneself updated with the television news channels. Just by sitting at home one can get the entire news of the world by TV, this is possible only because of globalization. Globalization in media has also made us aware about the economical and political conditions of a particular country but also provides us with entertainment of all sorts. The Cultural and traditional issues are focused by the television through movies, serials, reality shows and advertisements. Shrinking world role of air transport super freighters Developments in transport technology have played a major role in globalization. Over 100 years ago, the Industrial Revolution changed the nature of transport with the invention of the steam engine and the combustion engine. Since then, technological development in the transportation industry has affected transformation in road, rail, sea and air travel. Transport for personal use has improved dramatically. Cars are now built to be faster, safer, more fuel efficient and therefore cheaper to run, as well as being more environmentally friendly and costing less to purchase. Airline transport has also enabled the expansion of tourism and trade across continents. Although passenger planes only began to move groups of people around half a century ago, they have dramatically improved within that time. Airline travel has not only become more affordable in the last 20 years but it has also become faster. In the mid-1930s, eleven people could fit into an aircraft on a flight from London to Bangkok which took eight days. In 2002, almost 400 passengers could take the same journey in just ten hours. The advancement in the fields of transport and communication has made those regions excess able which were earlier in access able. The vast network of roadways, railways, waterways and airways across the countries has linked each nook and corner of this world with the other. Transportation and communication have reduced not only distances but also the time taken for covering these distances. The time of travel is reduced considerably due to the presence of fast means of transport like Aero plane and super fast trains. Due to communication facilities such as mobile phones, Emails, SMS one can talk and see and interact with people sitting thousands of kilometers away. The Internet provides us with not only worldwide interaction but also world wide information. The inter connectivity of people, services and institutional across the world has brought the world closer and closer making it a kind of global society, a global village. Hence it would be right to say that todays world is shrinking. Transport has also changed the way we do business. Super tankers have increased the scale of trade between countries, as these massive container ships are able to carry larger quantities of goods, including oil and grain. As a result, trade has become increasingly international. Innovations in transport often involve the use of information and communication technology. Larger aircraft and container ships use satellite navigation systems, and computers to function. Attempts are also being made to make transport more affordable and also more environmentally friendly by utilizing things such as solar power, electricity and ethanol fuel. In conclusion globalization reflects our identity and connects us to the rest of the world. The science and technology makes the world globalized and in turn reflects the theory of convergence and promotes cultural identity. Where it has benefited a lot of countries on one hand, on the other it has also generated significant international oppositions over all the issues that have increased inequality and environmental degradation. Globalization is definitely bringing the world together in order to create â€Å"one global world† but however one must understand its limitations and make the best use for the betterment of the nation and oneself by adopting the best of every nation’s culture. Media has always played a very important role in our society and for a long time it remained one of the methods of controlling people and their recreational time. As mention in the site (The Role of Media in the Society). The media hence provides different types of information in different ways in the form of newspaper, internet, television, magazine, radio etc. In fact it’s a very essential and simplified way to inform or simply to entertain the audience. As the process of globalization becomes more prominent the role of media and advertisement and consumerism also increases considerably. Therefore globalization is not just integrating trade, investment and financial markets but also integrating the consumer markets. At the same time the consumer receives an overflow of information through commercial advertising. However with the years progressing the methods and techniques of advertising have become sophisticated creating a better and much aware world and hence turning luxuries into necessities. As mention in the article. (Shah, 2006). Globalization in the media has definitely got some negative aspects to it but however the advantages are way more and therefore there is a remarkable progress in development in all economic, social, political, cultural and traditional aspects.

Chapter 13 and 14 Essay Example

Chapter 13 and 14 Essay Example Chapter 13 and 14 Essay Chapter 13 and 14 Essay Chapter 13 and 14 Name: Institution: Lecturer: Course: Date Chapter 13 and 14 Ch. 13: Intro- what is ‘soft diplomacy’ and what is its purpose? Diplomacy refers to the feature of international relations where one nations attempts to carry out negotiations with another nation. This is mainly aimed at promoting peace, culture, or for economics purposes. Soft diplomacy is the American aspect of promoting the American culture through the distribution of American movies to nations that showed sympathy to communism. The soft diplomacy was mainly aimed at discouraging communism through the promotion of American ideas in the effort of showing the benefits of consumer capitalism. How do audiences respond to cultural exports (such as Disney)? The audiences have been mostly critical to the production of meaning. This is because the government could not be able to determine or control the meaning and response of the cultural exports. This is because the meaning and response are judged on the ground and are based on the historical and cultural contexts, which are mainly different from those of the United States of America. However, there are many who have positively responded to cultural exports such as Disney. This is because it serves as a form of identity. For instance, there are many Japanese, who have taken the American culture and Disney positively because it serves as a form of self-identification. 1-jazz: what is ironic about the US sending a jazz musician to Europe? What is the significance of Jazz music? The irony in sending jazz to Europe is that although Jazz tends to fight the issue of racism by having talented white colored musicians together, the issue of racism is still rife in the United States of America. 2-carton: how many symbols of US consumerism can be found in the drawing? The main symbol of consumerism that is found on the drawing is the demand for more and thereby leading to conflicts in the society especially in the family set up. 3-Disney: what is its appeal, its power? Does it shape culture or reflect it? Disney has proven to be a very powerful instrument in marketing the American culture. Disney mainly reflects the American culture in the belief of fairy tales and happy conclusions. 4-McDonald’s: how do Taiwanese people use McDonald’s? What impact does it have on their traditions? The Taiwanese use the McDonald’s premises as a social place and thus tend to spend much time there than their counterparts in the united states of America. There are those who chose the spot as relaxation venue by reading, thinking or simply chilling. There are those who chose the venue as a sport for conducting business meetings while others used the venue as a favorite spot for courtship purposes. This greatly influences their traditions because business meetings are no longer being conducted in offices nor is reading of novels being carried out in libraries or more quiet places. 5-Pokemon: how did the Japanese capture the US market? The producers captured the US market by allowing other companies to imitate the film. Although many companies sue for copyright infringement, the marketers of Pokemon allowed the production of an American version leading to the high acceptance in the local market. 6-hip hop: why did Ceza choose rap as his form of music? He chose to rap because he identified with the social struggle that is mainly conveyed in the rap songs. The music helped him to express himself and resist the things that he mostly disliked. Essays: What is globalization? How is it experienced? Globalization is the growing interdependence and influences either for commercial, political or cultural purposes globally. It is mainly experienced when one nation’s culture, economic or political landscape influences or is influenced by that of another nation. What is time-space compression? This is an effect of globalization where the word is seemingly becoming smaller because it is now easy to reach any part of the world through electronic media, satellite television and the internet. Are the receiving cultures weak? Are they simply being injected with US businesses without thought or resistance? The receiving cultures cannot be deemed as weak. Many societies tend to accommodate changes and thus leading to the wide acceptance of the American culture in these nations. The marketing of the American products and culture also tends to appeal to peoples of these nations. Are commodities culture? Commodities are not culture but are aspects of a given culture. The rap albums being sold are not the hip-hop culture but are mainly means of expression used by those of the hip-hop culture. What are the 2 contrary effects of globalization? The two contrary effects of globalization are that it leads to the promotion of one culture while it leads to the degradation of another. As one society adopts the cultural aspects of another community, it mainly abandons its past cultural practices to take up the new. How does ‘the authentic’ reappear in this context? The authentic will often reappear because the global is a pan of the local. This means that there are some aspects of the local culture present in the global culture. The adaptation of the global culture therefore results in the reappearance of some aspects of the authentic culture. The Americanization of Turkey occurred how? What are the results and concerns? The Americanization of turkey occurred through the marketing of American commodities in turkey. Commodities are aspects of a given culture and thus if the commodity is appealing, then the culture is also bound to be accepted. This results in the abandonment of the local culture for the new culture in this case the American culture. Ch. 14: Intro How is the Internet shaping the world, popular culture, and people’s lives? The internet facilitates the global interaction people from all over the world. This enables people to experience new cultures hence promoting popular culture. This leads to the change in people’s lives as many abandon their native cultures and adopt popular culture. What questions are being asked again as people appropriate this new media? The main questions being asked with the increasing use of the internet is whether the facility is promoting some cultures at the expense of others. The use of the internet has led to the globalization of some cultures whereas some are now becoming extinct. docs-What do each of these articles bring to the debate? Why were they included in the chapter? The two articles show how the internet and other interactive media facilitate the convergence of culture and how their use can lead to both positive and negative receptions and interpretations. Do people participate more or less in electronic games than in earlier versions of entertainment? Do they have control of the outcomes? Statistics indicate that there is growth in the number of persons engaging in electronic games as opposed to earlier versions of entertainment. This is mainly because the electronic games seem more appealing and exiting than the earlier versions.

ART110 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

ART110 - Essay Example Contour lines are predominantly used as well in the painting to add to the visual effect of the real images of the clouds, the tigers and lions as well as the hunters. Short broken lines gave realization to the texture of the horse’s mane and tail, the lions’ and tiger’s hair and claws as well as the hunter’s clothes and bodies. The blend of primary colors created just the right hues to bring real pigments to the animals and men. The saturation of colors on the gray horse’s mane brings a bright effect reflecting the additive light’s natural influence on the artwork in contrast to the dull colors created in the middle and bottom part of the painting. The illusionistic three dimensional space presented in the painting add color and action to the drama between the animals and hunters, giving it a seemingly photographed picture of real events. The proportion of the images is realistic as well. Reference Kleiner, Fred S. Gardner’s Art Throu gh the Ages: A Concise History of Western Art (2nd Edition). USA: Cengage Learning, 2010. Print

Petrobras and cost of capital Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Petrobras and cost of capital - Essay Example Petrobras was operating in a higher risk environment due to Brazil’s economic turbulence. The cost of debt for any given company is the cost of raising extra revenue by issuing the debt. Likewise, the cost of equity refers to that extra revenue associated with issue of the equity shares. The cost of capital therefore is derived from the average value of issuing the two in the proportion capital they present and this is what is referred to as the WACC (weighted average cost of capital) as to be discussed later in this paper. For a company like Petrobras, the financing costs can be derived by use of the WACC. The major players in the multinational oil industry as indicated in exhibit 1 of the case have almost a similar cost of capital ranging from 7.6% of BP to 9.0% of ocean energy indicating an average difference of 1.4%. Petrobras’ cost of capital is further up at 15% reflecting a massive difference of 6%. This is largely attributed to the company’s distinct domestic involvement in terms of its operations. The company is largely owned by the government and hence it was solely producing for a Brazilian market in the quest to eliminate its over dependence on international oil imports. This is despite the economic turbulence of the country’s economy that has been characterized by fluctuations in interest rates, inflation rates, local currency depreciation among other economic downfall, which is further reflected into the company’s CA.... erations made investors assign it the country risks assigned to similar firms operating in the country and as a consequence, the cost of capital was significantly raised. There are sentiments by analysts that the company’s CA ought to have been excluded from the â€Å"burden† of the respective additional costs incurred from Brazil's sovereign spread during the derivation of kd (cost of debt) and derived capital or equity (Antweiler 2005). This will ensure that the risk bored or characterized by the company’s operations are optimally constituted hence bringing its cost of capital at par with similar companies. This is the main reason why the company embarked on expansion in the South American markets like Argentina, as mentioned in the case. Petrobras's WACC Analysis To begin, there are two ways that companies may use to evaluate their cost of capital: the first one is by use of expected equity cash flow and the required rate of return whereas the second approach focuses on the use of free cash flow and the weighted average cost of capital. The WACC calculation for Petrobras uses comparable companies to produce a single discount rate. This is despite of the fact that an industry average WACC is the most appropriate for Petrobras on a long-term basis. Suppose there exists any short-term differences between the industry WACC and Petrobras's WACC, then it goes that Petrobras will be more likely to go back to the industry WACC on a long-term basis. The company’s WACC calculation uses Petrobras's highest risk free rate, because no investment can have a cost of capital that is better than risk free. This situation may occur if the beta is negative and Petrobras uses a significant proportion of equity capital. While the company had decided to implement an

What role does Lex Mercatoria Play in international commercial Essay

What role does Lex Mercatoria Play in international commercial contracts - Essay Example XX century was marked by the rapid surge in international economic relations, which led to an increase of the world trade volume and accelerated the trade turnover between partners from different countries. But amid the dynamic changes of relations in the international commercial turnover, the legal regulation of these relations did not undergo a radical transformation. Such means as collision and substantive rules of national legislation of parties in dispute or the provisions of international contracts were traditionally used. However, in recent years the existence of a certain group of relations, which regulation goes beyond the specified levels, manifested itself. These are relations developing in the process of international trade implementation. Trade has always been a key element in international relations. Due to trade, the exchange of knowledge, customs and traditions among different peoples occurred. Trade also encouraged the development of other economic activities (e.g., banking, insurance and so on.) Any actively developing phenomena require adequate regulation; otherwise, it is impossible to achieve the objectives, pursued by members of the international commercial trade. In this case, the mechanism of regulation must meet, on the one hand, the interests of the market, and, on the other - the needs of the participants of trade relations (Selden, 1995). Objective reality of today is the inability of national legislations to fully resolve the whole range of problems, arising in the process of international commercial

Introduction Of KFC In Mauritius

Introduction Of KFC In Mauritius The necessity for all human being is eating which is observably a daily action. For eating at restaurants, it depend on an individuals reason and is intentionally or instinctively assess by a multifarious set of attributes ahead before choosing a restaurant. Thus, this study is to investigate how much service quality has an impact on customer satisfaction and retention especially in our Mauritian context at KFC. As there is a casual inter-relationship between customer satisfaction and service quality, this study aims to find out the effectiveness of the service dimensions of service quality which leads to customer satisfaction and finally to retention at KFC. An individual feeling of pleasure and disappointment is known as satisfaction and the customer satisfaction is very important for any organization. All the main aspects will be analyzed and recommendations will be drawn out for better improvement. Company Background History Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) was founded by Colonel Harland Sanders in 1952 and its primary focus is fried chicken. KFC also offers grilled and roasted chicken products, wraps, salads, sandwiches and desserts as well beef based products outside the USA. Although the death of Sanders in 1980, he remains a vital part of the firms branding and advertisements, and Colonel Sanders or The Colonel is a metonym for the company itself. In 1991, the abbreviated form of its name KFC was adopted by the company. The Present KFC operates more than 5,200 restaurants in the United States and more than 15,000 units around the world. In 109 countries and territories around the world, KFC daily serves more than 12 million customers. KFC is world famous for its Original Recipe fried chicken, made up of 11 herbs and spices secretly blended together. Colonel Harland Sanders perfected more than a half century ago. Based on the Fortune 500 List, KFC is ranked on 239 positions with revenues in excess of $11 billion in 2008. Introduction of KFC in Mauritius With time, consumers were more demanding for large variety of food and then, the first KFC outlet was launched in Mauritius-1983. Pick N Eat is the company which operates the KFC franchise in Mauritius. KFC has carved a solid reputation as a quick service restaurant which provides quality products and service. Across our island, 18 outlets are spread out and 10,000 customers daily are enjoying their finger-linking favorites in the consumer-friendly environment. Background of the program In the fierce competition, the market trend has changed noticeably from agricultural to service market. The service sector especially fast food industry is in a rapid growth and gain a sustainable position in the market due to lack of time to prepare food and dual income families. All of the fast food businesses are trying their best to improve their service quality in order to make customer satisfied and return back to them again. They are concentrating more on service quality in order to meet the needs and expectations of the customer. The more satisfied the customers are, the more likely they are to return to the restaurant. The fast food industry has undoubtedly not been free from either augmented competition or from increasing customer expectations regarding quality. In the fast food industry, the perceived quality holds a great importance to create a retention effect for customers. So the fact is that when the service providers are able to satisfy its customers with good manage rial arrangement, the foods quality provided, have efficient staff, then a positive outcome is seen in customers retention in a particular restaurant. Problem Statement Service quality is a vital strategy for any restaurants, success and repeat business and it has long been defined by adopting a rather more customer-oriented view and not by the restaurateur-oriented (Saleh and Ryan, 1991). Customer is the key role in any business, without any customer it is difficult to do business. It is necessary to work closely with your customer. As customers can also create your business, thus, customer is the major part of business and also in the market. Business runs through customer, without the customer there is no business. Due to the increasing competition with other restaurants and quality-conscious customers, it is vital to carry out this research. There is a need for further improvement in order to face the competitors and meet the increasing customers expectation concerning quality. Based on the actual service quality performance of KFC, it is important to identify if customers are satisfied with the current situation and are likely to retain at KFC or switch to other competitors. Also, to find out the factors of service quality that leads to customer satisfaction and retention. From the above reasons, it is important that the service performance meets or exceeds customers and their expectation, the customer will be satisfied. Service quality is an antecedent of customer satisfaction. Therefore, this warrants a study to assess the customers expectation and perception, examine its discrepancy gaps and the service quality dimensions that influence customer satisfaction and retention. Research Objectives -To determine customers expectation and perception level towards service quality. -To identify the discrepancy gap between customers expectation and perception level towards service quality. -To identify the SERVQUAL dimensions which have an influence on customer satisfaction and retention? Research Questions -What is customers expectation and perception towards service quality? -What is the discrepancy gap exist between customers expectation and perception towards service quality? -What are the SERVQUAL dimensions which have an influence on customer satisfaction and retention? Aims of the study This study is to find out whether the service dimensions have an impact on customer satisfaction and retention at KFC by using the SERVQUAL Model by Parasuraman, Zenithaml, and Berry (1988). It will also explore the service aspects that affect and influence customer satisfaction and retention. Significance of the study This study will act as a practical guideline for KFC, especially for the management and the front line employees which may increased a higher level of customer satisfaction in the near future. The results of this quantitative assessment of service quality may provide some insights into how customers rate the service and assessed customer satisfaction at KFC. The outcomes will utilize as a basis to improve their existing service quality or to develop a new one in order to meet with the customers needs and satisfy them. Furthermore it will help KFC managers to know if they are providing services according to the norms established by customers. The management will be able to come up with a strategy for upgrading their service quality which will definitely lead to customer satisfaction and retention. All these views of customers will help KFC to remedy problems if there are and maintain their service quality. Phases of the discussion Introduction In the first chapter, the problem area is discussed with a deeper understanding regarding the research. The problem discussion ends with a research objectives and questions. In the end of this chapter, the contributions of this research are also presented. Literature Review In the literature review, the service qualitys impact on customer satisfaction and retention is discussed with the following purposes of assessing customers expectation, customers and employees perception, identifying their gaps and the influencing service quality aspects. Research Methodology ************************************* Analysis ************************************************* Conclusion and Recommendation ******************************************************** Conclusion The first chapter provided us a background to the outline of the dissertation. It contained the research context, which is, identify the problems, and establish its aims and its objectives, set out the research questions and finally present the outline of the study. Chapter 2- LITERATURE REVIEW 2.1 Introduction This chapter will give an overview of literature and models that presented by writers and journalists. It will support the research objective presented in the previous chapter. The chapter will elaborate the concepts of service, service quality, customer satisfaction, customer retention, service quality dimensions, the gaps and others. 2.2 Fast Food Industry The fast food industry is also known as Quick Service Restaurants (QSR) and has been serving delicious food for as long as people lived on. The fast food generally refers to the food served to customers in form of packaged for takeout or on the spot with minimum preparation time. The Mauritian fast food industry was primarily started with the famous dholl-puri and is still in great demand. But, due to globalization, the fast food industry has gradually breakthrough the Mauritian lifestyle. The consumer demand has evolved as they demand for a variety of food in a comfortable, stylish place and for busy people a quick bite at all times of the day. Today, these products form part of the Mauritian lifestyle and culture. People look for the convenience in order to improve their lives and productivity. Recent studies have shown that one out of every two-and-a-half-meal today is eaten away from home (Kara et al 1997). The fast food industry is not without its challenges. There is an increased focus on the quality of food served in the fast food restaurants. But, in this fierce competition of today, the right marketing approach and application of service quality is vital to compete with competitors as well as retain customers. The fast food industry is large and diverse in itself with lots of opportunities that challenge is being answered with new offerings and strategies to lure consumer back in. In the new emerging fast food industry, KFC is expanding in accordance with the customers demand despite the environmental problems and provide its potential to give a meal in a pleasant atmosphere. Jang Namkung (2009) proposed three factors: service and product quality as well as the atmospherics element are considered as the main restaurant attributes affecting the perceived quality of customers experiences at a restaurant. The total dining experience in a restaurant is comprised of not only food itself, but also the atmosphere (physical aspects) and the service provided. Thus, the fast food industry is based on the principles of quality food served fast and requires fast-reaction solutions to customers needs if they want to satisfy and retain customers. 2.3 Service There are many definitions concerning the concept of service by researchers. The term service was describe by the author Gronroos (1983) as: An activity or series of activities of more or less intangibles nature that normally, but not necessarily, take place in interactions between the customer and service employees and/or physical resources or goods and / or systems of service provider, which are provided as solutions to customer problems. Another definition was given by the author (Payne, 1993) said that service is Any primary or complementary activity that does not directly. Produce a physical product that is, the non-goods part of the transaction between customer and provider. Whereas Kotler et. al. (1999) is of opinion the service is regarded as any activity or benefit that one party offers to another which is essentially intangible and does not result in the ownership of anything, and it may or may not be tied to a physical product. Normally, lots of people are involved in a s ervice process and it is tough to do an analysis of service or to duplicate the same service exactly. In today market, products heavily rely on its service to acquire competitive advantage and to satisfy customers needs. Each authors mentions service as an exchange between the service provider and customers as well as its intangibility nature. The most vital point is simply the participation of the customer in the service process. KFC provides quality product and service with full customers interaction. 2.4 Service Quality In the service industry, service quality has become a crucial tool. Practitioners are more interested in the concept of service quality which has an advantageous effect on the outcome performance for the company. Service quality is a critical element of customer perceptions as well as in determining customer satisfaction. Various experts have defined service quality differently. Parasuraman et al. (1985) proposed a formal definition of service quality as the degree and direction of discrepancy between customers service perception and expectation. Satisfaction occurs when the expectations meet or exceed the performance level whereas customer dissatisfaction occurs when the expectation is below the perceived quality. Asubonteng et al. (1996) defines service quality as the extent to which a service meets customers need and expectation. Hooley, Saunders and Piercy (2004) A prime factor in differentiating the product or service from that of competitors is quality. Quality concerns the fit ness for purpose of a product or service. For manufactured products that can include the durability, appearance or grade of the product while in services it often comes down to the tangible elements of the services, the reliability and responsiveness of the service provider, the assurance provided of the value of service and empathy, or caring attention, received. According to these authors, the service quality is normally the customer perceptions and the organizations activities together with delivering quality service that matched to customer expectations on a consistent basis. Service quality is a key survival of all restaurants as it is the most powerful competitive weapon that can be used against competitors and to attract as well as to retain customers. These authors highlights that two main factors affect the quality of a services, that is, expected service and perceived service. 2.5 SERVQUAL Approach The SERVQUAL framework has come up for the purpose to improve service quality in services and retailing organizations as it has suggest that customer satisfaction is based on multiple factors rather than one. The SERVQUAL method was developed by Parasuraman et al. in 1988 as a technique used to perform a gap analysis of an organizations service quality performance against customer service quality needs. Parasuraman et al. (1988) came up with five dimensions (grouped with 22 attributes) to measure service quality which is responsiveness, assurance, tangibility, empathy and reliability. The SERVQUAL instrument is regarded as a reliable method of measuring service quality (explore customers expectation and perceptions), which in turn leads to a measurement of customer satisfaction. Internationally, KFC already have a service quality assurance team for regular surveys with a theory known as CHAMPS (consist of cleanliness, hospitality, accuracy, maintenance, the standard of product quality plus service speed). This is to evaluate the customers experience whether they are satisfied or not with the products and services. In Mauritius, KFC has already executed the theory of service quality and conduct survey concerning the services. Thus, in the study, the SERVQUAL method will be used for further research work. 2.5.1 SERVQUAL Dimensions In 1985, Parasuraman et al. has identified ten determinants for measuring service quality which are as follows: responsiveness, reliability, access, competence, courtesy, credibility, communication, security, tangibility and understanding or knowing the customer. Later, in 1998, Parasuraman et al. refined the model to the useful acronym RATER:- Reliability It is defined as the ability to perform the promised service dependably and accurately or delivering on its promises (Zeithaml et al., 2006, p. 117). It is one of the most important service components for customers as it implies doing it right the first time. The service organizations need to keep its promise and maintain an error free record. The reliability factors are efficiency in the billing system, consistency in serving customers, and the staff performs tasks that have been promised to guests and well trained staff. For the food beverage industry, reliability can be interpreted to mean fresh food delivered at the correct temperature and accurately the first time (Andaleeb Conway, 2006). In the Mauritian context, KFC has its own training center recognized by the franchisor for their staff. The chicken is prepared on the spot and they make sure that the service delivery is consistent and timely. The most significant policy of KFC is evaluating the customers experience with its service, whether they are satisfied or not. They can also put their comments and suggestions for further improvements of the products and services of KFC. Assurance Assurance is defined as the employees knowledge and courtesy and the service providers ability to inspire trust and confidence (Zeithaml et al., 2006, p. 119). The assurance factors are staffs knowledge about the menu, safety, security, trustworthy and friendly staff. Customers are more likely to use tangible evidence to assess the assurance dimension such as awards or special certificates which give a new customer confidence. KFC has achieved National Quality Awards and have a Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) program is implemented in order to identify, evaluate and control any physical and environmental hazards in the work place. And the logo of HACCP is visible in every restaurant as an assurance dimension. Tangibility Tangible is defined as the physical facilities, equipment, staff appearance and others. In accordance with the author, Zeithamal et al. (2006) this dimension is comprised to the current appearance and shape of the cutlery, the restaurants interiors decor, silverwares and the uniform of the staff, the layout and appearance of the menu list, restaurant signage and advertising campaign. Tangibles are used by firms to convey image and signal quality (Zeithaml et al., 2006). Customers use this dimension to evaluate the quality. KFC has its own evidence of its service in terms of products, packaging, printed and visual marketing materials, websites, and staff appearance, virtual evidence of handling queries and feedback through Facebook and other online services. Empathy Empathy is the extent to which caring individualized service is given to a customer. The customer is treated as a king. Many small companies use this ability to provide customized services as a competitive advantage over the larger firms (Zeithaml et al., 2006). The empathy components are willingness to handle requests, give individualized attention to customers, and show enthusiasm to serve and to answer to all queries accurately. Empathy may be important to ensure customer loyalty as the server knows how the customer likes his or her food prepared. In return, the customer is easily approach and spell out their needs to the service provider. If a company looks its customer as an individual, as result, the company will come out as a winner. KFC take care of each individual customer by providing the meal according to the customer requirement. Such as, a meal can be upgraded by adding cheese, pineapple, tomato, plain or spicy chicken as per the customers taste. Before launching a new product, KFC take care of its customers opinion into consideration through Facebook and keep continuous communication with the customer through regular survey. Responsiveness Responsiveness is defined as the willingness to help customers and provide prompt service (Zeithaml et al., 2006, p. 117). The responsiveness factors are short waiting period for the service delivery, attend complaints quickly, availability of staff when needed and restaurants action upon customer suggestions. In order to be responsive, a service provider has to determine how long it would take to get answer or to solve a problem. To be successful, companies need to look at responsiveness from the view point of the customer rather than the companys perspective (Zeithaml et al., 2006). This dimension captures the notion of flexibility and ability to customize the service according to the customer needs. KFC handle complaints quickly especially through Facebook and the staff are willing to help customer as well as keeping in mind for short waiting period in service delivery. 2.5.2 Service Quality Gaps Model In 1990, Zeithaml, Parasuraman and Berry have developed a survey instrument to measure the gap between customers expectation for excellence and their perception of actual service delivered. The SERVQUAL model uses the terms that describe one or more determinants of a quality service encounter. Gronroos (1982), Lewis and Booms (1983); Parasuraman et al. (1985) have the same opinion that the most frequently used approach to measure service quality is SERVQUAL to compare the customers expectation prior to the service encounter and their perception after the actual service delivery. Basically, there are seven principal gaps in the service qualitys concept, out of which Gap 1, Gap 5 and Gap 6 are more associated with the external customers as they have a direct relationship with customers. Figure 2.1: SERVQUAL or Gaps Model (Zeithaml Parasuaman Berry 1988 Gap 1: Management perceptions of consumer expectations and Customers expectations and It is the knowledge gap which portrays the difference between the management beliefs about customers, expectations and what customers actually need and expect. This gap happens when there is insufficient flow of communication upwards, lack of marketing research orientation and too many level of management. Gap 2: Management perceptions of consumer expectations v/s service specifications It is a policy gap where a difference occurs between management perceptions regarding customers expectations and service specifications are set for service delivery. The reasons for this gap are unfeasibility, inadequate commitment to service quality and task standardization as well as an absence of goal setting. Gap 3: Service quality specifications opposite service delivery It is the difference between the service specifications and the service delivery teams actual performance on these specifications. The gap is a result of poor employee-job fit, lack of perceived control and lack of teamwork. Gap 4: Service delivery v/s external communication to customers The communication gap is the difference between what the company communicates and what is actually delivers to the customer. It is due to inadequate horizontal communications and propensity to over- promise. Gap 5: The discrepancy gap between customers expectations and customers perceptions of the service delivered It is the difference between what has actually delivered and what customers feel they have received. Customer expectations are influenced by the extent of personal needs, past service experiences and word of mouth recommendation. The difference occurs when customers are influenced and service provider has shortfalls. Gap 6: The discrepancy gap between customer expectations from the service provider and employees perceptions of consumers expectations The service quality gap is what the customers expect to receive and their perception of the service that is actually delivered. There is a difference in the understanding of customer expectations by front-line service provider. Gap 7: The discrepancy gap between employees perceptions and management perceptions of consumers expectations This gap is mainly an internal difference in the organization such as differences in understanding of customer expectations between management and employees. 2.6 Customer Satisfaction Customer satisfaction is the heart of marketing. Customer satisfaction is the customers evaluation of the service or product against if their needs and expectations are meant. For any restaurant, customer satisfaction is more important as it forms a part of marketing. In past years, customer satisfaction was not that important but today it is the most important issue in term of the most reliable feedback for a restaurants excellency. Richard L. Oliver (1997, P.13) define customer satisfaction as Satisfaction is the consumers fulfillment response. It is a judgment that a product or service feature, or the product or service itself, provides a pleasurable level of consumption-related fulfillment. Customers satisfaction is highly influenced by their characteristics, their emotional responses and their perceptions of equity. As Kotler (2000, p.36) defined that satisfaction is a persons feelings of pleasure or disappointment resulting from comparing a products perceived performance (or ou tcome) in relation to his or her expectation. If the performance didnt meet the expectation of the customer, then dissatisfaction will occur. If the performance exceeds the customers expectation, then satisfaction will occur. If the performance exceeds more than expected, then the customer will delighted. In the context of customer satisfaction, Johnston and Clark (2005) have describe it as Service as the combination of outcomes and experience delivered to and receives by a customer. Customers therefore judge the quality of the service on the experience as well as the outcome. Due to current competitive edge, customers are abreast with the fact of product quality and every service provider is interested to satisfy customers needs and wants. All of three authors explain customer satisfaction as a bunch of desired expectations of a customer that has been fulfilled by the service provider. But, Richard L. Olivers definition is more applicable in this research work which emphasis that satisfaction is based upon service itself. KFC take care for its customer satisfaction by providing an online questionnaire on its website regarding customer satisfaction. 2.7 Customer Retention Lovelock (2004) illustrates importance of customer retention The hardest part of a business is customer retention. If a company does not retain its customers, inevitably it will fail. Marketing essentially means keeping customer loyalty. In order to have a good lifetime value of customers, an organization needs to have good strategies to retain them and arouse loyalty within them for lifetime. Laura Lake (2010) defined Customer retention is not only a cost effective and profitable strategy, but in todays business world its necessary. This is especially true when you remember that 80% of your sales come from 20% of your customer and clients In the starting point of a business, customer retention is very important as the cost involved in attracting new customers are five times higher than retaining an existing one. Hill and Alexander (2006) defined It is becoming accepted that there is a strong link between customer satisfaction, customer retention and profitability. By fulfilling cust omer expectation, an organization provides all service according to the customers preferences and in return, the customer is loyal to the organization. It makes profit for the organization and organization has to retain by providing continuous good services, better customer satisfaction and that will be profitability for the organization. So, organization has to make strong relation with customers as high rates of customer retention are a competitive weapon against its competitors. By having a questionnaire always on the website, KFC is trying to take care of that small segment of customers who are satisfied or dissatisfied with its service quality. In this way, KFC tries to retain those happy customers than losing them. 2.8 Customers expectations and perceptions 2.8.1 Customers expectations Customer expectations are increasing day by day and demanding for quality products and services; therefore expectations play an important role in the formation of customer satisfaction. The term expectations really matters to companies because they want to know what customers expectations are. According to Oliver (1981) à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ expectations are consumer-defined probabilities of the occurrence of positive and negative events if the consumer engages in some behavior. Customers form their expectations from their past experience, friends advice, and marketers and competitors information and promises. Organizations in order to keep expectations from rising, they have to perform services properly from the first time (Parasuraman et al. 1988). There is tendency that if a service is not delivered as promised, thus the customers expectations are likely to rise in the next encounter. Expectations serve as reference points in customers assessment of performance (Cronin Taylor, 1992). Th e purpose of trying to understand customers expectations is trying to ensure that service can be designed and delivered in order to meet those expectations. If the operation meets the expectations, or indeed exceeds them, then customers are satisfied with the service. If they are satisfied they are more likely to become valuable customers who not only use the service again, but are positively disposed towards it and may even recommend it to other Johnston and Clark (2005). Therefore, the perceived service quality is viewed as the difference between consumers perceptions and expectations for the service provided. 2.8.2 Customers perceptions Mc Kenna (2000) is of opinion that perception is a vital process in a persons life where he or she has to manage and interpret a situation or an event to define a particular respond. Service firms must understand the concept of service quality from the point of view of the customer, not from the view point of the service firm or service provider. Besides, customer perceives services in the response to quality pertaining to the service and the extent to which they are satisfied with the overall service with their experiences (Zeithaml and Bitner 2003). The customer satisfaction is determined by the customers perceptions and expectations of the service quality. Customer perceives services in terms of the quality of the service and how satisfied they are overall with their experience. The customers perception varies from customer to customer and each one has different beliefs towards the services that play a crucial role in determining customer satisfaction. Therefore, customer percepti on and customer satisfaction are very closely linked together, because if the perceived service is close to customers expectations it leads to satisfaction. Satisfied customers provide recommendations; maintain loyalty towards the company and customers in turn are more likely to pay price premiums (Reichheld, 1996). As such, perceived service quality is a key component of customer satisfaction. 2.9 Relationship between service quality and customer satisfaction A great emphasis need to be heightened on service quality and customer satisfaction. In old times, customers were not concerned about quality and their satisfaction does not have such importance. But, today,

W.E.B. Dubois: His Vision For Freedom Essay -- Racial Relations, Afric

African Americans during the 1900s lived lives full of uncertainty. They were no longer slaves, but still looked upon by many as inferior to the white race. However in this period of tension, there were men who sought to bring their race to new heights. One of these men was W.E.B Du Bois. Few have influenced the lives of African Americans in such a way as W.E.B Du Bois. The vision he had for African Americans was one that many found great hope in. He sought for the day that his race for finally have civil equality in every aspect of life. In the time of Du Bois, African Americans may have been considered free but still lacked many civil liberties, that the whites were easily granted. One of the biggest civil liberties they lacked was voting rights. To Du Bois voting for African Americans was one of his greatest hopes, he believed that â€Å"with the right to vote goes everything† (NMS 1). If African Americans could gain this right, the doors to other civil equalities would then open. However this was not such an easy tasks, there were so many â€Å"flagrant...political scandals that reputable men began to leave politics alone† (Son of Masters 5). The African American men and women had been so put down by the whites, that voting to them became too much of a hassle. Even though views toward voting seemed hopeless and a great hassle, Du Bois spoke out the with the biggest question of them all â€Å"It is possible, and probable, the nine million of men can make effective progress in economic lines if the y are deprived of political rights† (Du Bois 5)? How could African Americans build their lives, if they had no say in any of it? It was clear to Du Bois that voting was essential, without it his people would not be able to live equally among th... ...he separation and how these ugly vision that the races had of each other, made Du Bois realize that if African Americans could again regain the direct contact they once had with whites they may also begin to see the good in each other, and with this would come the general civil right they so desperately needed. They would be able, to choose who â€Å"to walk, to talk and be with (.NMS 2), where they wanted to watch a show, even how they got to that show. The general freedoms of everyday life is what Du Bois wished to see. African Americans in the 1900s may have not reached complete freedom just yet, but thanks to the men like Du Bois who took a stand, all hope was not lost. Du Bois brought a vision that with small victories in voting, education, and overall daily freedoms, the African American people would finally be seen as equal to their white brothers and sisters.

Positive Effects of Media on Children Essay

Many people argue that the media only brings negative effects on children, forcing the parents to constantly say â€Å"no† to their children’s requests. Parents argue that the media repetitively advertises junk food and things that may damage a child’s health; and they are forced to â€Å"counter the culture†, which means to stop the messages that the media is trying to deliver to their children. Although it may be true that some of what the media advertises is not good on big quantities for the children’s health, I believe that not everything the media presents is bad, as it has plenty of positive sides. Much of the kids’ programming shown on TV is meant to be educational, and teach the children different aspects of the world. By watching television and the media, the children discover what they truly like, what sports they’re interested in, what instruments they want to play, etc. Furthermore, the television advertisements can bring positive effects on the kids’ knowledge about everyday lives, and different aspects of such influence children positively. The use of social media and television has more positive effects than what it has negative, it is a key part of our current society and the minds of the children. Television acts as a meaningful teacher for children, as many programs that the kids watch are educational and cover aspects of the world in a way that it is understandable by children. Sesame Street has been one of the most influential TV show on children for over 35 years now, and it has shown to have positive results in the viewer’s learning skills and developing character. By watching Sesame Street, toddlers can learn much about cultural diversity, racial harmony, cooperation, kindness, and how to manage feelings and emotions. This show also teaches basic simple arithmetic and the alphabet to children, in such way that is easily understandable by the kids with no further explanation. Another show that has been greatly influential now is Curios George, which has been a PBS classic in the most recent years, and teaches viewers about problem solving skills. The monkey fellow encourages children to ask questions about the world, and find solutions through questioning. A study conducted by PBS shows that watching the episodes of Curious George boosts the knowledge of the young children about science and math. The children that are watching television today at their homes will eventually become the celebrities, stars and athletes of tomorrow. Every passion starts with a kid saying â€Å"I want to be like him when I grow up†, after watching the stars on TV. Kids watch sports, and decide what attracts them the most, and they discover their passion as they practice it. Currently the best basketball player in the world is Lebron James, who also had an idol as a kid: Michael Jordan. James says that his mom told him that you always want to be better than your idol, not like him; he watched Michael Jordan play with the bulls on TV, and he practiced basketball to discover his passion. Through this, Lebron James is already being compared with Michael Jordan and his ultimate goal is to be better than him but he explains that their aim is for children to be better than them when they grow up. Pop idol celebrities, like Justin Bieber also had idols when they were kids, who inspired them to grow towards their passion. Justin Bieber’s idol was Michael Jackson, who inspired him to become one of the most influential teen celebrities in the current world. The children of today might tomorrow be celebrities and may say they were inspired by Justin Bieber, or other current celebrities. One of the most controversial aspects of social media is the advertisement, as parents claim that too much junk food is advertised, forcing parents to say â€Å"no† to their children. However, advertisements are also one of the positive aspects of television, as it promotes general knowledge about decision making to children. It is shown that some alcohol manufacturers spend about 10% of their budget advertising the dangers of drinking. These include drinking and driving, excess drinking of alcohol, and alcohol related sicknesses and diseases. By watching these advertisements, the children are able to make the decisions of not drinking, or not drinking and driving; this can eventually reduce the dangers that the children are exposed to, and may even reduce the deaths of people. The tobacco companies also spend a good amount of money on advertisements about the dangers of smoking, and the possible consequences. Television often also advertises products that are good for the children’s health and development. Studies show that milk consumption has significantly increased since the implementation of broadcast advertisements on television. Milk and other essential dieting products are shown attractive to children to increase their consumption, and improve their growth and health. There are three types of people: the ones who think that every aspect of the social media is bad for our children; the ones who think that social media may have some positive aspects; and then there are the people who follow the studies and base their opinions on facts, who believe that the social media is good for our children. Various TV programs such as Sesame Street and Curious George engage the kids in entertaining knowledge, through which they are able to learn about diverse topics. The stars and idols of tomorrow are the children watching TV today, the kids who are inspired by that athlete, by that celebrity, or that scientist; restricting television for kids would mean prevailing them from growing their passions and becoming who they want to be. Advertising companies spend huge amounts of money on creating conscience among kids about the problems related to drugs, alcohol, social problems, and bad nutrition. Through TV ads the children are able to make the right decisions in life, and are being informed about the problems they may face in their future lives. The television has a huge positive influence on children, as it promotes education, making right decisions, and finding their passion. Times have changed; we are in the 21st century, which is prevailed by technology and the social media. Television is now a common part of our children’s lives, and it makes positive changes in them, on the education, and their lives. Social media has an infinite amount of positive effects on children, and its growth must be encouraged, as those positive aspects will also grow with it. References Paulsen, Christine, Ph. D. â€Å"Evaluation of Curious George. † PBS. Concord Evaluation Group, May 2012. Web. 19 Aug. 2013. Anthony, Ford-Jones, Ph. D. â€Å"Impact of Media Use on Children and Youth. † National Center for Biotechnology Information. Canadian Paediatric Society, May-June 2003. Web. 19 Aug. 2013.