Saturday, December 28, 2019

The Negro Artist And The Racial Mountain The Manifesto...

Bowen 7 Sunteasja Bowen Harlem Renaissance Dr. Bracks 2 March 2017 The Negro Artist and the Racial Mountain: The Manifesto for Artists of the Harlem Renaissance The Norton Anthology of African American Literature suggests that the Harlem Renaissance was the â€Å"irresistible impulse of blacks to create boldly expressive art of a high quality as a primary response to their social conditions, as an affirmation of their dignity and humanity in the face of poverty and racism† (953). The Harlem Renaissance was known as the rebirth of music, drama, dance, literature, and art for African Americans from 1919-1940. During this time, Black Americans found themselves longing to gain acceptance from their own. Blacks needed to create art and literature†¦show more content†¦The poet in Hughes’ essay says that he only wants to be a poet. He did not want to be associated with race. Hughes took that as meaning that he did not want to be a negro poet. Hughes associated this need with the fact that he was of a middle-class family and taught to act white. This essentially disconnected the poet from his blackness and his purpose for cre ating high quality black art. â€Å"One sees immediately how difficult it would be for an artist born in such a home to interest himself in interpreting the beauty of his own people. He is never taught to see that beauty. He is taught rather not to see it, or if he does, to be ashamed of it when it is not according to Caucasian patterns† (1311). Once a person chooses to dissociate themselves from their heritage, it becomes almost impossible to create art meaningful for that race. Because Hughes had his own personal vindications with race and class systems, Pardlo believes this is why he was quick to condemn others who openly voiced differing opinions; however, Hughes played a vital role in the advancement of black Americans during the Harlem Renaissance for this very reason. Hughes, for the sake of the advancement of blacks, critiqued artists for their positions and involvement, or lack thereof, in the Harlem Renaissance. Furthermore, not everyone believed in what the Harlem Renaissance stood for. Artists such as George Schuyler, for example, directly opposed the general view of the African American community’sShow MoreRelatedThe Negro Speaks Of Rivers1548 Words   |  7 Pagesprimary contributor to the Harlem Renaissance of the 1920s. After moving from several cities, Hughes and his mother finally settled in Cleveland, Ohio. During this time, Hughes began to write poetry. One of his teachers introduced him to the poetry of Carl Sandburg and Walt Whitman, both whom Hughes would later cite as primary influences. By the time Hughes was enrolled at Columbia University in New York, he had already launched his literary career with his poem â€Å"The Negro Speaks of Rivers† in theRead MoreNarrative Of The Life Of Frederick Douglass Essay1792 Words   |  8 Pagesdescribes the pitiful rations of food received by the enslaved. 3. Explain the following regarding the Harlem Renaissance (1919-1940) Definition- Harlem Renaissance, a cultural, social, and artistic explosion that took place in Harlem, New York, spanned the 1920s. During the time, it was known as the New Negro Movement, named after the 1925 anthology by Alain Locke. ... The Harlem Renaissance was considered to be a rebirth of African-American arts. Black artist’s common goal- The black artist’sRead MoreAnalysis Of Langston Hughes And His Harlem Dream1639 Words   |  7 Pagesand His Harlem Dream The 1900s found many African Americans migrating from the south to north of the United States in an event called the Great Migration. Many Southern African-Americans migrated to a place called Harlem and this is where the Harlem renaissance originated from. The Harlem renaissance began just after the first world war and lasted into the early years of the great depression. Harlem became the cynosure for blues and jazz and birthed forth a Negro Artist era called the Harlem RenaissanceRead More Langston Hughes, Prolific Writer Of Black Pride During The Harlem Renaissance1658 Words   |  7 PagesLangston Hughes was one of those black leaders who arose during the Harlem Renaissance. He gave his people a voice and encouraged pride and hope through his literary work, to overcome racial discrimination. Langston Hughes lived during the time of the Harlem Renaissance, an African American cultural movement of the early 1920s and 1930s that was centered in the Harlem neighborhood of New York City. It also came to be known as the New Negro movement, marked the first time that mainstream publishers andRead MoreLangston Hughes, Prolific Writer of Black Pride During the Harlem Renaissance1694 Words   |  7 PagesLangston Hughes was one of those black leaders who arose during the Harlem Renaissance. He gave his people a voice and encouraged pride and hope through his literary work, to overcome racial discrimination. Langston Hughes lived during the time of the Harlem Renaissance, an African American cultural movement of the early 1920s and 1930s that was centered in the Harlem neighborhood of New York City. It also came to be known as the New Negro movement, marked the first time that mainstream publishers andRead MoreThe Harlem Renaissance- a Black Cultural Revolution2021 Words   |  9 PagesThe Harlem Renaissance- A Black Cultural Revolution James Weldon Johnson once said that Harlem is indeed the great Mecca for the sight-seer; the pleasure seeker, the curious, the adventurous, the enterprising, the ambitious and the talented of the whole Negro world.(Harlem Renaissance) When one thinks of the Harlem Renaissance, one thinks of the great explosion of creativity bursting from the talented minds of African-Americans in the 1920s. Although principally thought of as an African-AmericanRead MoreLangston Hughes And His Harlem Dream1902 Words   |  8 PagesLangston Hughes and His Harlem Dream An explosion of written and artistic creativity, a time of social awareness and enlightenment among the black race. The Harlem Renaissance, originally known as ‘The New Negro Movement’, began after the first world war and lasted until the middle of the 1930’s depression. Harlem became a destination for African Americans throughout the early 1900’s as part of the great migration. As more blacks made Harlem their home, it increasingly became well known as an AfricanRead MoreThe Harlem Renaissance s Influence On People s Views On African American Lifestyles Through Poetry Essay2428 Words   |  10 Pagesdiscrimination and segregation was still widely accepted and practiced. Life was much different back then. Although people were heavily being judged for the color of their skin, a movement called the Harlem Renaissance had a major influence on people’s views on African-Americans across the United States. The Harlem Renaissance created a new Black cultu ral identity through literature, music, theater, art, and politics. One of the leading voices was Langston Hughes, a writer whom wrote realistic portrayals, bothRead MoreHarlem Renaissance3262 Words   |  14 PagesHarlem Renaissance, a blossoming (c. 1918–37) of African American culture, particularly in the creative arts, and the most influential movement in African American literary history. Embracing literary, musical, theatrical, and visual arts, participants sought to reconceptualize â€Å"the Negro† apart from the white stereotypes that had influenced black peoples’ relationship to their heritage and to each other. They also sought to break free of Victorian moral values and bourgeois shame about aspects ofRead MoreEssay on Langston Hughes? Influence on American Literature1422 Words   |  6 Pagescontributions to following generations by writing about African American issues in creative ways including the use of blues and jazz. Langston Hughes captured the scene of Harlem life in the early 20th century significantly influencing American Literature. He once explained that his writing was an attempt to â€Å"explain and illuminate the Negro condition in America† (Daniel 760). To fulfill this task, he wrote 15 volumes of poetry, six novels, three books, 11 plays, and a variety of non-fiction work (Daniel

Friday, December 20, 2019

Achilles Moral Guide Or Moral Taboo - 1572 Words

Achilles: Moral Guide? Or Moral Taboo? In the modern world we are surrounded by technology and as a result the buzzing of television sets, computers monitors, and cellular devices continuously fills the air to the point that it almost seems to consume us. With this technology we stay connected through social media, text, email one another, go to school, do our jobs, and even grocery shop. Though this technology is fairly new our dependency on these devices has grown rapidly recently and is still continuously growing more and more every day. As a result of our transition to becoming the technological society we are today we have to realize we have let it transform not only how we do things and stay connected to one another, but how we see the world in general, and even how we set our moral standards. In fact, it has changed our society so rapidly that I frequently find myself asking how does our societies moral standards compare to that of those in the ancient times. When I say ancient I don’t mean a few hundred ye ars. I mean back when some of the greatest pieces of technology available where considered the wheel, the chariot and trench irrigation instead of the 3-D printers, and touch screen devices we have in the 21st century, and back when bloody wars were fought for honor and land instead of the to the death battle for cell phone signal you see in everyday America. Nevertheless, despite these constant thoughts popping into my head I never truly searched for an answer toShow MoreRelatedEssay on Buffy the Vampire Slayer5067 Words   |  21 Pagesknowledge of books and his appetite for them, his strength is also typically his weakness, as his predicament in Nightmares (1:10) shows. His anguished though characteristically understated call, Im having a problem. I - I cant read, points to his Achilles heel. In the first three series of the show taking place in Sunnydale High, Giless lair is the library. After Buffy enrols in university, Giless bachelor flat becomes the de-facto library of the Scooby Gang. His bookishness defines him and

Thursday, December 12, 2019

The Importance of Effective Communication

Questions Discuss about the The Importance of Effective Communication. Answer: Introduction Understanding ones own personal communication skills and biases according to Segal E.A, is self-awareness. Self-awareness is essential and enables one to know oneself and be aware of ones own values, assumptions, beliefs, strengths, and weakness. A greater insight into other kind of life experience and an increased openness to other ways of thinking could be achieved with increased self-awareness. One can achieve effective communication skills and interpersonal relations along with empathy through self-awareness. Effective communication is required in all walks of life (Blizard, 2012) Developing ones communication skills requires use of efficient and effective diagnostic tools. The tools used for the assessment of personal communication methods were: Johari window, Nohari window, communication style questionnaire, Fluency severity rating scale and oral speech sample analysis technique. The interpersonal skills can be learned. A person acquires these skills through experiences, through unintentional processes and through unstructured of trial and error (Munodawafa, 2008). To clearly identify the key problem areas in my way of communication i have undertaken the above mentioned five tools and the results for the same were: Jowari Window- score clearly stated through the blind spot that I spoke a little faster and thus people found it difficult to understand what I said and thus asked me to repeat. This has made me realized that I need to slow down while I spoke to clearly send my message across. In this technique I choose 6 characteristics I am aware that I possess and asked my friends to identify the characteristics they thought were suitable for me. I was able to collect 9 feedbacks. My results of Johari window is 66% adaptable and 55% confident. I am able to adjust at any place and in any situation. According to my friends I am 44% energetic, 33% independent, 33% intelligent and 33% confident. The 6 traits selected by me were adaptable, confident, energetic, calm, extrovert and trustworthy; which match to what I have been rated by my friends clearly stating that I am an open book and thus making me send my messages across in a clear manner (Kevan.org, 2006) Nohari Window- this technique has helped me to understand my grid of perception by others. I had filled 5 traits that I knew were my weaknesses. My friends and colleagues were asked to complete the test. The feedbacks from my friends and colleagues including juniors have helped me identify and minimize my weaknesses. 96% people believed that I am a simple person, 87% believed I am a selfish person, 55% stated I am unhappy and 75% stated that I am panicky person (Kevan.org, 2006) As I was working as a sales manager I was given a sales target for me and my team of 6 people. I was to achieve the target within 3 months. I got so busy and involved that I forgot to wish my best friend his birthday and was reminded after a month by him. There are occasions that my colleagues get annoyed as I highlight many mistakes and ask my team to schedule meeting with clients and accompany them so ask to make sure that none of my team member misses their given target. I ignored the fact that this could highlight me as a non-trusting manager and an over involved one when it comes to achieving targets. While I should have allotted my colleagues their targets and asked for action plans for their achievement and show trust and faith in my team I forced them to take me along whenever they met clients. In the communication style questionnaire I received a score of 59 stating that I am being able to predict the peoples response and consider cultural barriers while making conversation. I had received a score in harmonious assertiveness, giving me a good rating for assertive attitude and confidence level (How Good Are Your Communication Skills?, 2017) The score of fluency severity rating scale has helped me understand that I stutter 3-4 words per minute due to an increased speaking rate. The score being 1, I have been classified as 5% to 11% stuttered words and with transitory dysfluencies (Resource Packet, 2009) The oral speech sample analysis highlighted that I speak a little faster and thus leading to a stuttering of a few words too. This technique I had been able to utilize through recording 5 to 10 minutes of oral speech and then analyzing it with the help of my friends. This technique of Curlee and Perkins (1994) suggests collection of 10 minutes of taping to get 5 minutes of a persons talking/oral reading time, then counting the number of syllables in the message and divide it with the total number of minutes the person spoke. In several occasions over my life I had wondered why people ask me to repeat my sentences making me frustrated that why do they not understand things the first time I say it. It was only in my business communication class last year my teacher highlighted that I spoke too fast for the rest of the class to understand. This came as a complete shock to me. That evening I called my mother back home and asked her if I spoke at a higher speed making it difficult for them to understand the first time I say it and she answered yes. I was speechless. I asked her why I was I never told to slow down and corrected, she said because they got used to it over time and thus nobody bothered to correct me, not even my dad. Thus it was in my post grad I realized I spoke faster than the normal rate. When I try to slow down to speak so that others could understand I would stutter. This too was highlighted by my business communications teacher. Thus, the two problem areas in my communication that require improvement are the speed at which I talk and the stuttering of 3-4 words after I have been asked to repeat what I said. Literature Review Effective communication according to Roberts, J. (2009) is passing right information to the right person, in the right time in a right way and with right impact, effect and outcome. Sending a right message to the other person and the person who received has received it correctly and understands it makes effective communication a two-way process. For successful management effective communication is the key (Wong, Saber, Ma, Roberts, 2009) In all walks of life exhibiting efficiency in communication proves significant (Kenneth, 2007). The ABC approach helps to review the principles of effective communication. In the ABC approach A stands for accuracy, B stands for Brevity and C stands for clarity. Accuracy in the message sent is essential because different receiver of the message can interpret it differently. Brevity means being concise. It is essential because if the message is not concise it could get lost in clutter of unnecessary words. Thus sticking to the point is the best way to send a concise message. Clarity of a message can be ensured through the use of right language. Before a message is prepared the audience should be considered carefully. According to Locker and Kaczmarek (2007) if a message does not seem important, relevant and interesting to the audience, the audience would not pay attention to it (Locker Kaczmarek, 2007) Disorders in speech and an inability to express oneself clearly act as a barrier for the overall development in a persons life. Feelings of tension and negative attitude are exhibit in a persons behavior due to the awareness of the disfluency; while fear, embarrassment, shame and frustration engulf the speaker according to Guitar (2006) (Guitar B. , 2006) According to Guitar the beginning of stuttering results in the emergence of prolongation. Guitar also stated that the repetitions are fast and abrupt in the beginning stages. In the intermediate stage the above stated symptoms along with avoidance and periods of block are evident. The speaker also produces inappropriate ending of sound and air. This is due to the immobility of the tongue and lips while speaking. In the last stage the speaker along with the first and the intermediate stage symptoms experience tremors. The speaker requires adult centered treatment program (Guitar B. , 2006) According to Guitar, stuttering may go unnot iced until it reaches advanced stage and tremors occur. Stuttering in young children according to Guitar can hamper a childs overall development. He further asserts that brain is like a computer and too much information can hang it up. Guitar also states that a stutterer becomes conscious while speaking and display emotions of pride, shame, guilt and fear, along with embarrassment. According to Miller and Guitar (2009), therapies based on behavioral, classroom, and instructional management strategies stated below have proven to show positive results. The Lidcombe Therapy- Focuses on behavioral management of people who stutter. Self-Modeling Strategy- within the classroom instructional setting self-modeling strategy can be utilized. Stress Reduction- another instructional and behavioral intervention. Assistive Technology- this technology is beneficial in instructional and behavioral management level. From the above mentioned therapies and techniques self-modeling technique is very helpful for individuals like me who are well aware of the barriers in communication and intent to improve the same (Miller Guitar, 2009). According to Cream, et al, in self-modeling technique various range of speech pattern are used to improve stuttered speech. An extremely unhurried exaggerated form of speech model is developed for the stutter through speech restructuring beginning with an establishment stage or an instatement in self-modeling technique. With the utilization of techniques and methods mentioned in self-modeling one can achieve positive results and improve stuttering problem (Cream, et al., 2010) Yaruss, (2006) stated that if stressors can be identified that triggers stuttering and steps are taken to minimize them the stuttering can be controlled and reduced and also eliminated. He further asserts that an environment in which the stutter is present has an incredible impact also the temperament of the speaker also plays an important role. It is also evident through previous research in the field that collaboration of the various strategies and techniques help to achieve positive results and the collaboration should be in accordance with the speaker in focus. Utilization of the above mentioned strategies in isolation proves null. Yaruss further stated that there are four techniques to speech modeling strategy that can be utilized to eliminate stuttering under communication modification that are: The speaker is able to use and also display simpler and relaxed manner of speaking, To reduce pressures a child may have when communicating by increasing the time gap between speakers turns, Rapid fire questioning has been proven to reduce burden to speak and increase time pressures, and Rephrasing, reflecting and expanding speakers utterances, this will provide positive communication mode (Yaruss, Coleman, Hammer, 2006) According to Curlee and Perkins (1994) the speed at which a person speaks affects the way the receiver perceives not only the message but the sender itself. Speaking fast may present a person as a knowledgeable or a fluent in language but it makes it difficult for the receivers to understand the message clearly and thus reducing the impact of the message itself. As stated by Perkin a persons speed of speaking can be calculated by examining the number of words they speak per minute or the syllable they speak per minute. This helps to understand the abnormalities in a persons way of communication (Curlee Perkins, 1994) Further, it is also important according to Perkins that the speech naturalness is also analyzed. For the same according to Ingham, et al (2009) a 9-point naturalness scale is to be used to determine if the speech has a natural sound quality. The listeners in this test should be SLTs or nave listeners like lay persons or graduates. The subjective judgments should be made at a 15 minute intervals from highly natural or highly unnatural, despite the fluency percentage. The total judgments should be at least 10 in number (Ingham, Bothe, Jang, Yates, Cotton, Seybold, 2009)(Edge, 2010) The Fluency Severity Rating Scale is only to b used when the entire assessment of the speakers fluency performance has been made. Thus, it is only logical to assess the fluency at last. Action Plan for the next 6 months: After completion of the assignment it is clear that the two problem areas identified that is the speed talking and stuttering when asked to repeat, needs improvement and thus I have established a six month plan to improve my communication skills. A collaborative method would be required because as stated earlier positive results could only be achieved if the above mentioned strategies are collaborated. Thus, self-modeling along with stress reducer and fluency severity rating techniques will be collaborated together for positive effective and efficient results, under the supervision of a mentor. The aim would be to eliminate the stressors and then work through stuttering towards reduction of word count; this is because speaking fast comes naturally to me and this is due to my fast reading capacity. So, though I would intent and practice to speak slowly and clearly there might occur instances where in flow of the moment I might speak fast and if asked to flow down or repeat it should not act as a stressor and I should not stutter. Goals Timeline Actions Deadline Achievement/Status Improvement in communication skills- speaking, reading, listening, i.e. verbal and non-verbal. 5th Feb 2017 to 17th July 2017 Find a mentor, 5th Feb to 15th Feb Take reading and speaking sessions - - Establish a working reading and speaking session on a daily basis with VSM for analysis and improvement 15thFeb-5th July Application of self-modeling technique to eliminate stuttering - - Self-modeling 10 minute recording sessions with mentor 16th Feb-16th April Application of Curlee Perkins techniques to bring word count to 250 words per minuite - - Sessions with mentor to check SPM and Naturalness 17th May-17th July Take a 3 month short course of communication at CQU. - 3 month short course in communication for overall communication skill development The next course session available in 2017-2018 The tests and techniques discussed above have helped me to develop a workable action plan with future analysis and improvement in my communication skills. The techniques can be utilized by anyone willing to improve their communication skills self-modeling might be cumbersome because it requires extra video equipment, which might not be possible for everyone to arrange. Many schools and personnel willing to utilize this strategy would find it difficult to record every student and there also if the parents do not permit tapping of the child this strategy can prove to be a challenge (Ward, 2008). On the other hand stress reducer strategy is most effective for budget conscience schools and personnel. References How Good Are Your Communication Skills? (2017, January 31). Retrieved January 31, 2017, from Mindtools: https://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/newCS_99.htm Blizard, J. L. (2012). The importance of effective communication. Aorn Journal, 319-320. Cream, A., O'Brian, S., Jones, M., Block, S., Harrison, E., Lincoln, M., et al. (2010). Randomized Controlled Trial of Video Self-Modeling Following Speech Restructuring Treatment for Stuttering. Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing Research. Curlee, F., Perkins, H. (1994). Nature and Treatment of Stuttering: New Directions. San Diego: College-Hill Press. Edge, R. L. (2010). MEASURING SPEECH NATURALNESS OF CHILDREN WHO DO AND DO NOT STUTTER: THE EFFECT OF TRAINING AND SPEAKER GROUP ON SPEECH NATURALNESS RATINGS AND AGREEMENT SCORES WHEN MEASURED BY INEXPERIENCED. Retrieved January 31, 2017, from GETD: https://getd.libs.uga.edu/pdfs/edge_robin_l_201208_phd.pdf Guitar, B. (2006). Stuttering: An integrated approach to its nature and treatment. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams Williams. Guitar, B. (2006). Stuttering: An Integrated Approach to Its Nature and Treatment. Lippincott Williams Wilkins. Ingham, R. J., Bothe, A. K., Jang, E., Yates, L., Cotton, J., Seybold, I. (2009). Measurement of Speech Effort During Fluency-Inducing Conditions in Adults who Do and Do Not Stutter. Journal of Speech Hearing Research, 1286-1301. Kenneth, C. H. (2007). Developing Effective Communication Skills. Journal of Oncology Practice, 314-. Kevan.org. (2006, February 11). Johari Window. Retrieved January 31, 2017, from Kevan: https://kevan.org/johari Kevan.org. (2006, February 12). The Nohari Window. Retrieved January 31, 2017, from Kevan: https://kevan.org/nohari Locker, K. O., Kaczmarek, S. K. (2007). Business Communication: Building Critical Skills with Bcomm Grademax`. McGraw-Hill Higher Education. Miller, B., Guitar, B. (2009). Long-term outcome of the Lidcombe Program for early stuttering intervention. National Center for Biotechnology Information Journals, 42-49. Munodawafa, D. (2008). Communication: concepts, practice and challenges. Health Education Research Journal, 369-370. Resource Packet. (2009). Assesment of Speech: Fluency. Tennessee : Department of Education. Ward, D. (2008). Stuttering and Cluttering: Frameworks for Understanding and Treatment. Psychology Press. Wong, R. Y., Saber, S. S., Ma, I., Roberts, M. J. (2009). Using television shows to teach communication skills in internal medicine residency. BMC Medical Education Journal . Yaruss, J., Coleman, C., Hammer, D. (2006). Treating preschool children who stutter: description and preliminary evaluation of a family-focused treatment approach. Journal of Language Hearing Research, 118-136.

Wednesday, December 4, 2019

DNA Structure Essay Example For Students

DNA Structure Essay The Thread of Life, is deoxyribonucleic acid, also known as DNA. Thismolecule which is the bases of life, is spiral shaped and found in the nucleusof cells. DNA has the genetic code for bodies, controls development ofembryos, and is able to repair damage caused to itself. All DNA moleculeshave linked units called nucleotides. These nucleotides have sub-units that have5 carbon sugars that are called deoxyribose. DNA is composed of four basescalled adenine, thymine, guanine, and cytosine. These are some of the mainprinciples of DNA. What we know today about structure of DNA begins in 1868 whena Swiss biologist Friedrich Miescher did the first experiments on the nuclei ofcells. Miescher used the nuclei of pus cells from old medical bandages. In thesepus cells he found What We know today about structure of DNA begins in 1868 whena Swiss biologist Friedrich Miescher did the first experiments on the nuclei ofcells. Miescher used the nuclei of pus cells from old medical bandages. In thesepu s cells he found phosphorus with a substance he called nuclein. This nucleinhas an acidic portion which is classified as DNA. Another scientist Thomas HuntMorgan made an important discovery around 1900. He observed that certaincharacteristics were inherited quickly through numerous generations of fruitflies. So he made the conclusion that these genes must be near one another onthe chromosome. In 1943 Oswald Avery, Colin MacLeod, and Maclyn McCarty, threescientists working in the Rockefeller institute, preformed an experiment bytaking DNA from a virulent (disease-causing) strain of Streptococcus pneumonaeand transformed a non-virulent (inactive) form back to a virulent form. Avery,MacLeod, and McCarty discovered from their experiments that DNA carried avirulent message that can be transferred into the recipient of non-virulentcells. This proved that DNA was a carrier of genetic information. An importantdiscovery of the 1940s was the discovery by Erwin Chargaff who establishedthat her editys alphabet which are the four bases adenine (A), guanine(G), thymine (T), and cytosine(C) can occur in different orders in differentorganisms. In 1953 James Watson and Francis Crick put forth a radical new ideaabout DNA. Their idea suggested that the DNA molecule was made up of two helicalchains instead of three intertwined chains as previously thought. Today we havea strong knowledge of DNA and scientists are applying that knowledge to a threebillion dollar project called the human genome project. This project willexamine the structure of human DNA and map out every single gene in the humanbody and will take 15 years. The strong knowledge that we have of DNA allows thescientist to map out the genes at about 1 to 2 per day. This may not seem to bea very fast rate but scientists have already found the genes that cause diseasessuch as Hunningtons, Lou Gerhigs, and the Bubble-Boy disease. Another way that we use our strong knowledge of DNA is in criminalidentification. This plays a major role in todays society. Because eachpersons DNA is different (except in identical twins) police officers can takeblood or semen samples from a crime scene and take them to the lab foridentification. This can insure the guilt or innocence of a suspect. An exampleof this is the O.J. Simpson case where investigators tried to match O.J.s DNAto the DNA at the scene of the crime. Another way scientists apply theirknowledge of DNA today is by using special enzymes called restriction enzymesthat cut through the phosphate of DNA and these cut ends are called stickyends because they easily attract other tails from other DNA. Scientist usethese restriction enzymes for genetic engineering by removing a gene from oneorganism to another. In the future DNA has great possibilities for thebetterment of mankind and also the detriment. The most obvious and controversialpossibility would be the cloning o f humans. Scientists have already cloned sheepand other such organisms but have yet to take the step for cloning a human eventhough the technology is in place, the ethics of this may not be. The method toarrive at is quite simple. The embryo of an organism is removed in the earlydevelopment stage from the uterus then split and each separate part is placed ina surrogate uterus. Scientist are trying to clone organisms beyond the earlyembryonic stages, making for a much more difficult challenge. In 1996 Scottishscientists were able to clone a sheep, Dolly, by taking skin cells of a donorsheep and were deprived of nutrients to halt cell production. Then anunfertilized egg is taken from another sheep with its nucleus removed, to eraseany genetic information and then finally fused with the skin cells from thefirst donor sheep. Though Dolly characteristics are the same as the sheep thatthe skin cells were taken from, she is not a 100% clone. She is not a true clonebecause not all organisms are found in the nucleus and therefore still retainsome of the traits from the surrogate sheep. The human Genome Project that issaid to be done by 2005 will sequence more 35 million pairs of human DNA. .u813d9c5b1b68e191516c0528d26fda5c , .u813d9c5b1b68e191516c0528d26fda5c .postImageUrl , .u813d9c5b1b68e191516c0528d26fda5c .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u813d9c5b1b68e191516c0528d26fda5c , .u813d9c5b1b68e191516c0528d26fda5c:hover , .u813d9c5b1b68e191516c0528d26fda5c:visited , .u813d9c5b1b68e191516c0528d26fda5c:active { border:0!important; } .u813d9c5b1b68e191516c0528d26fda5c .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u813d9c5b1b68e191516c0528d26fda5c { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u813d9c5b1b68e191516c0528d26fda5c:active , .u813d9c5b1b68e191516c0528d26fda5c:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u813d9c5b1b68e191516c0528d26fda5c .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u813d9c5b1b68e191516c0528d26fda5c .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u813d9c5b1b68e191516c0528d26fda5c .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u813d9c5b1b68e191516c0528d26fda5c .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u813d9c5b1b68e191516c0528d26fda5c:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u813d9c5b1b68e191516c0528d26fda5c .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u813d9c5b1b68e191516c0528d26fda5c .u813d9c5b1b68e191516c0528d26fda5c-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u813d9c5b1b68e191516c0528d26fda5c:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: The Under Ground Railroad EssayBecause of such advanced technologies in the future and continually growingknowledge of DNA we may be able to find cures for such diseases as cancer orAIDS or even deformities such as sickle cell anemia or down syndrome. DNAtechnology is one of the leading sciences going into the 21st century. Becauseit could potentially cure or eliminate such diseases or deformities as AIDS ordown syndrome it could also potentially harm us in the future with more lethalbiological weapons. However anything dealing with DNA is a highly complicatedand sensitive issue to most people. This knowledge is so powerful that we areable to play God, in a sense, and crea te or alter any organism we choose. Thatis why I believe that for the betterment of mankind we must regulate andrestrict this information to insure that it is used for ethical purposes ofmankind. Science

Thursday, November 28, 2019

Outline some of the policies introduced by governments to create an education market in the United Kingdom free essay sample

An education market is about the relationships between schools and the parents of the pupils hoping to go there. So it is the purpose, values and products of schools relevant to the pupils, parents, staff and the wider community. One policy that was introduced by the government to create an education market was the Ofsted inspection report. This is basically a report by Ofsted that parents can look at to see whether or not it is a good school for their children to go to. Ofsted inspection reports are a very clear way for parents to tell whether that particular school is good or not, as it tells the parents what kind of behaviour is expected in that school, and whether or not it needs improving. Of course, parents also have to take into consideration, that if their child/children are not going to go there, and the next school’s transport is too much to afford, then where are they going to send their kids? Another policy that was introduced by the government was the publication of exam league tables. We will write a custom essay sample on Outline some of the policies introduced by governments to create an education market in the United Kingdom or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page This is basically where schools across the county are put into a league table to see whose exam results were the best. If the schools exam results are not the best, then parents are going to be less likely to send their children there, whereas, if a school has a good exam record, parents are likely to send their children there. Providing funding was available for transport. One last policy that was introduced by the government was the formula funding. This is where all schools get a different amount of funding for everything, so that all schools in competition with each other to try and get the most advantaged kids to their schools. However, this will then create a division between working class and middle class children as they are going to know who is middle class and who is working class by what schools they go to, therefore creating friction between schools, creating more competitions between parents.

Sunday, November 24, 2019

Clyde Kluckholm essays

Clyde Kluckholm essays 1. What is the main point and/or argument in the article? "Culture consists of the values (abstract ideals) the members of a given group hold, the norms (definite principles or rules people are expected to observe) they follow, and the material goods they create." -Introduction to Society Anthony Giddens and Mitchell Duneier. This is how culture is defined in our text. In my words culture is the transmission of behavior patterns, arts, beliefs, values, institutions, and tangible goods among groups of people in a society. Now according to Clyde Kluckholm in his article he argues that peoples culture is what makes up a society. He says that the way we get by life is constructed by one's culture. "Culture is like a map- with it you can navigate a society; without it you will be barley human" says Kluckholm. So his main point is that culture is the reason why we exist today. It is how we get by life. It is a concept which controls the way of life for us humans. 2. What theoretical and/or methodological framework does the article use, and what is the evidence for this? In this article Kluckholm proves his theory by comparing and contrasting different parts of the world to each other. Such as the women in Siberia compared to the women here in America; women in America would find the idea of plural wives absurd, however in Siberia they find it absurd if a women is selfish and is not willing to share her man. And throughout the article he gives other examples from other parts of the world. Later in the article Kluckholm demonstrates his theory by explaining and painting a picture of how a society inherits culture. He states that once an individual is "culturalized" he or she feels a sense of belonging, and is obligated to follow the culture passed down to him or her. Kluckholm also displays his agreement with Ruth Benedict's definition to the concept culture; "Culture is that which binds men together." ...

Thursday, November 21, 2019

Ecomomic Regulation or competition policy Research Paper

Ecomomic Regulation or competition policy - Research Paper Example The relationship between Competition policy and Economic regulation will also be discussed. Comparison of the two approaches and the synergies that it will bring if both are used by the same agency. We also discuss some other concepts which include AJ effect and rate of return regulation. Literature Review In this literature review we will discuss in detail various concepts related to the topic. Economic Regulations George Stigler was the pioneer of the theory of economic regulation. He suggested that as rule regulations are designed in such a way that they benefit the industry who acquire them rather than protecting or benefitting the public. (Vane) He integrated the economics of regulation and economics of politics. According to him same analysis tools should be applied to both because both of them display self interested rational behavior. Economic regulation is a form of antitrust law in traditional economics through which concentration of wealth is controlled. The major objectiv e was that private motives of accumulation of wealth do not hurt the public interest. It was introduced to safeguard public interest. The intension was to protect public from economic abuses such as unreasonable prices, anticompetitive activities, to protect from sale of unethical products which are hazardous for health and safety of the public. The basic role of regulators was of the watchman of the public interest. In addition to that the role of regulators is of preventing monopoly and preserving competition. (Cochran) Background The regulatory scene which we witness today is significantly different from what it was in 1980’s. This phenomenon is due to massive privatization which gave birth to new regulatory apparatus. This process of privatization is now an international affair. Hence many countries and regions are now following this deregulation by trying to implement the best practices in other systems and avoiding the worst mistakes. A major problem with the deregulati on is that it is based on very weak logical foundation of improving efficiency. In the absence of competition this may not be the case. (Michael A Crew) Economic Regulation Theories It is important to note that study of regulation cannot be done in isolation. It has to be studied in the social, political and economic context in which it exists. The relative powers of different interest groups play their part in formulating and shaping the regulations. Different regulatory mechanisms interact with each other and once implemented they play an important role as the motives of decision makers. A thorough understanding of regulatory process is thus not possible without considering specific institutions, political structures and actors. Two major theories of government behavior about economic regulations are public interest approach and self interest theory or public choice theory. (Jan) Public Interest Approach According to this theory government intervention or regulation is required on ly to in case of market failure, when market is unable to achieve a particular social objective such as equality. Government intervention is needed to correct this failure. This approach is

Wednesday, November 20, 2019

Sigmund Freud Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Sigmund Freud - Essay Example Freud believed that the mind was in fact a complex energy source and should be investigated in a psychological way. Always a bright child and at the head of every class he was in, according to Gregory (1987, page 268), he was educated in Vienna. He began to study for a medical degree in 1873 and undertook research into the vertebrate nervous system and published his first scientific paper on this subject in 1878. On obtaining his medical qualification he decided to specialize in clinical neurology. His work on aphasia, that is loss of speech, especially with regard to Dr Breuer’s patient Miss O., attracted lots of scientific attention. Physical reasons for her many symptoms could not be found. Both Breuer and Freud wrote about how her condition, described at the time as hysteria, was the result of some psychological trauma in earlier life. When the patient was able, through hypnosis, to understand where her symptoms originated from , she was able to overcome them one by one. A lthough Freud was not the first person to discuss the idea of the unconcious mind having an effect upon the conscious, it was through his work that the idea became widely known. Freud moved to Paris, which was then the world centre for neurologists and the study of neurology. At that time he believed strongly in the use of hypnosis in clinical practice. He came to realise that neurosis was much more complex than had been previously realized. After a relatively short time he returned to Vienna where he married and set up in practice as a neuropsychologist. He spent several years searching for causes – concluding that in many cases the origin of problems was the suppression of early bad memories, repressed ideas which caused psychological trauma, especially with regard to sexual matters. This is something he added to Breuer’s theories. He developed over an extended period the theory that all human have an unconscious mind in which aggressive and sexual impulses are alway s in conflict with the minds defences against them. His theories seemed to be capable of encompassing and explaining many different types of human behaviour. They seem to provide causal theories for many kinds of human misery. The problem, as described by Thornton ( 2010) is that these causes are not scientifically observable or measurable. Freud is associated with the Oedipus Complex. This was based upon his hysterical female patients in Vienna, many of whom seemed to have repressed memories about seduction by male relatives in their early childhood. Many of these so called recollections, or repressed memories, obtained under hypnotic conditions, proved to be fantasies, according to Freud. This is what is now often termed ‘False Memory Syndrome’ .Others believe, according to Thornton ( 2010), that there was, even in Vienna’s polite middle class society, a much higher level of child sexual abuse than Freud felt able to acknowledge. . In 1906 he produced ‘Th ree Contributions to the Theory of Sex, a work which shocked many, yet nevertheless had an influence upon modern day ideas about the development of human personality. Earlier (1900) he had written ‘The Interpretation of Dreams’ based to a great deal on his analysis of his own dreams. According to Thornton ( 2010) these dreams had their origins in the huge emotional upset Freud suffered

Monday, November 18, 2019

Models of Integration Implementation Research Paper

Models of Integration Implementation - Research Paper Example Any software development procedure is divided into numerous logic stages that permit the developer to consolidate work competently, in order to build a software product of the necessary functionality within a precise period and financial plan. This model is a progressive scheme process, in which advancement is seen as flowing progressively down, like a waterfall, over the phases of formation, commencement, analysis, scheme, assembly, testing, and upkeep. According to this model, each stage must be finalized before the subsequent stage can begin (Petrice, 2002). This model traces its roots in the construction and manufacturing industries, which comprise highly organized physical settings in which after-the –fact fluctuations are excessively inflated, if not unbearable. This hardware sloping model was merely adjusted for software development at the time for the reason that no software development approaches existed. Winston frequently quotes formal explanation of this model as a 1970 article. He however did not specifically use the word waterfall in the article. He termed the model as an example of faulty, non-working model (Petrice, 2002). According to Royce, the software in request is premeditated and a blue print is drawn for implementers or coders to trail. Once design is thorough, an application of that plan is made by coders, and just before the later stages of the implementation stage, distinct software components manufactured are joined to present new functionality and abridged risk over the removal of errors (Petrice, 2002). This model is not suitable for a high-level plan; it is only applicable in a low-level project plan (Petrice, 2002). This is due to lack of prototype in the earlier stages of the process, until the implementation stage. This might present a catastrophe for a high-level plan, in terms of costs and time spent, for any fault would necessities the repeat of the development process.

Friday, November 15, 2019

Drivers and theories of corporate social responsibility

Drivers and theories of corporate social responsibility This part of the study emphasises on the research literature review related to the study. The structure of the literature review is broken down into three sub-sections. The former relates to the various aspects of CSR. The last two sub-sections discuss the different theoretical and empirical studies associated with CSP and CFP. 2.1 Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), also known as corporate citizenship, responsible business, or sustainable responsible business is all but a form of corporate self-regulation integrated into a business model where companies manage the business processes to produce an overall positive impact on society. Arguably, business and society are interwoven: society has certain expectations regarding business and therefore the firm has responsibilities towards society. Hence, being a steward of the needs of society is deemed to be a socially responsible, appropriate, and natural act. The first book acknowledging CSR is the Social Responsibilities of the Businessman (Howard R. Bowen) in the mid 1950s. But, the term CSR came in widespread use in the early 1970s. In fact, it owes its origin due to the globalisation which took place after many multinational corporations were formed, thus, bringing in force the corporate governance mechanisms to ascertain fairness and transparency as well as social responsibility in the corporate world. CSR is defined in various ways in different countries, of about being the capacity building for sustainable livelihoods from Ghana to about giving back to society from Philippines; and of being conventionally presented in a philanthropic model from the United States to being focused on operating the core business in a socially responsible way, complemented by investment in communities for solid business case reasons and voluntary interaction with the stakeholders from the European model. As such, according to Caroll (2003), The social responsibility of business encompasses the economic, legal, ethical and discretionary (philanthropic) expectations that society has of organisations at a given point in time. Hence, ideally and broadly, the concept of CSR is a built-in, self-regulating mechanism whereby business would monitor and ensure its support to law, ethical standards, and international norms. 2.1.1 CSR and CSP In todays competitive market environment, businesses are confronted with a new set of non economics-related challenges. To survive and prosper, firms must bridge economic and social systems. Maximising shareholder wealth is a necessary but is no longer a sufficient condition for financial prosperity. Despite the concept of CSR addresses such issue, a specific connotation of CSR and a new performance measure called the corporate social performance (abbreviated as CSP) needs to be unified to capture the performance of a business in the social realm, and also to be more precise in thinking about CSR. CSP defined as a business organizations configuration of principles of social responsibility, processes of social responsiveness, and policies, programs, and observable outcomes as they relate to the firms societal relationships (Wood, 1991), clearly shows that social performance is not limited to corporations only, but also applies to any firm and organisation. This comprehensive definition assumes that CSP is broader than CSR, which consists of three norms at different levels of analysis: institutional, organisational, and individual. Additionally, it includes organisational processes of environmental assessment, stakeholder management, and issues management, and also various measures of its external manifestations and societal effects, such as social impacts. Hence the CSP model expresses and articulates three stages, from less to more engage towards stakeholders: social obligation, social responsibility and social responsiveness (S.P. Sethi, 1975). 2.1.2 Views on CSR According to Hancock (2005), CSR can be viewed through 3 ways namely: Sceptic view According to this view, the notion of CSR is opposed to democracy and freedom, frustrating business focus on its purpose of wealth creation. Milton Friedman best defines this approach: Few trends would so thoroughly undermine the very foundations of free society as the acceptance by corporate officials of a social responsibility other than to make as much money for their stockholders as they possibly can. Utopian view A utopian view of CSR reflects the idea that companies have a prior duty to anyone touched by their activity, their stakeholders rather than their shareholders, and especially the vulnerable that may be exploited by the companys operation. This is based on the work of Evan and Freeman who are for the stakeholder theory where a corporation must recognise and respect the vital interests of each of its surrounding stakeholders. Realist view This view gathers the greatest following of an alliance model advocated by Patricia Werhane. It states that CSR is not simply about whatever funds and expertise companies choose to invest in communities to help resolve social problems. But, it is also about the integrity with which a company governs itself, fulfils its mission, lives by its values, engages with its stakeholders, measures its impacts and reports on its activities. 2.1.3 Key Drivers of CSR CSR is seen by Porter and Van Der Linde (2000, p. 131) as a competitive driver that requires appropriate resources. CSR programmes, however, on their own, have certain main drivers which are as follow: Bottom Line Effect This is the most relevant driver of CSR programmes as it incorporates a socially responsible element into corporate practice. As John Elkington (1997) rightly underlined that many companies exhibit corporate citizenship through charity or philanthropy. Nevertheless, a new perspective evolved over time for some corporate stakeholders. Success of a corporation is now weighted and defined by evaluating businesses using a Triple Bottom Line comprised of its social, environmental and financial performance. Managing Risk An endeavour to adopt CSR programme has been the gain in market share, key personnel and investment which pioneering companies enjoy when they seriously address labour and green issues. In fact, corporations implement such a programme to manage risks and ensure legal compliance as denoted by Levine Michael A. (2008). They try to avoid investigation, litigation, prosecution, regulation or legislation. Influence of the Corporate Disasters There has been an increased perception of greed amidst senior business officials in the corporate world following corporate scandals affecting Enron, WorldCom and the like. CSR is important in counteracting allegations of corporate greed. As a result, as described by Hancock (2005) in his book, corporations are now shifting away from the philanthropic approach towards CSR and are moving towards the greater alignment of CSR with business strategy and corporate governance. Lower Equity Risk Premium Reputation Management Corporations can face economic damage when their corporate reputations and brands are assailed or sales are affected by consumer boycotts. As argued by some rating agencies, a comprehensive CSR programme will lower a companys equity risk premium. A direct correlation between reputation and financial outcome measures share price and credit rating (Hancock, 2005) has been illustrated through a model designed by the global public relations company Bell Pottinger. In fact, companies may face a variety of legal and reputational risks if they do not have adequate social compliance or corporate social responsibility/sustainability programs in place. Customer Loyalty In todays markets, companies have to focus on building and maintaining customer loyalty. As proposed by Zhou Y. (2009), this can be done through a CSR programme which builds loyalty with customers by offering a competitive advantage in a marketplace where consumers find ethically delivered or produced goods and services. Stakeholder Activism Investment Incentives As perceived by Visser, W. (2008), CSR is encouraged through the activism of stakeholder or pressure groups which often address the alleged failure of the market and government policy. The trend of socially responsible investment gives CSR an incentive where funds are screened on ethical, social and environmental criteria. Thus, this proactively encourages businesses to inform shareholders of potential risks and issues and it helps them to better understand their stakeholders, including shareholders. According to Hill Knowltown (2006), surveys have indicated that analysts place as much importance on corporate reputation as they do on financial performance. 2.1.4 Theories for CSR There are several theories that emerged to explain the reasons behind environmental reporting over the time. These are as follow: Operational Efficiency Theory Operational Efficiency occurs when the right combination of people, process, and technology to boost the productivity and value of any business operation, while reducing cost of routine operations to a desired level. In the context of CSR, operational efficiencies can be achieved through managing impending risks and liabilities more effectively and efficiently through CSR tools and perspectives by reducing costs; streaming information to stakeholders concerning the investment community for better transparency and by using corporate responsibility and sustainability approaches within business decision-making to result in new market opportunities, newly developed manufacturing processes that can be expanded to other plants, regions or markets as advocated by S. B. Banerjee (2007). Social Contract Theory The current practice of CSR by corporations was explained by O. O. Amao (2007) under the social contract theory. This theory dates from the classic period of history but took its modern form in the 16th and 18th centuries with best known philosophers like Thomas Hobbes, John Locke and Jean Jacques Rousseau who talk on social contract. Rousseau, in fact, conceptualised the individual-society relationship as a symbiotic situation whereby the two parties mutually confer some right to the state in order to maintain social order which makes human life and cohabitation better and to gain benefits of community and safety. In parallel to the social contract, the corporate social theory, pertaining to a firms indirect social obligations, is advanced where businesses are bound by the social contract to perform various socially desired actions in return for approval of their objectives and other rewards. Legitimacy Theory Similar to the social contract theory, the legacy theory was adopted by comporations to ensure that operations are within the limits and norms of their respective societies and the outside parties perceive their activities as being legitimate. Society grants legitimacy and power to business. In the long run, those who do not use power in a manner which society considers responsible will tend to lose it. This principle developed by Daviss (1973) is commonly known as the Iron Law of Responsibility. It expresses legitimacy as a societal-level concept and describes the responsibility of business as a social institution that must avoid abusing its power. Thus, this principle expresses a prohibition rather than an affirmative duty, and it applies equally to all companies, regardless of their particular circumstances. According to A.K.H. Khor, the legitimacy theory is fundamentally a system-oriented theory where organisations are viewed as components of the larger social environment within which they exist. Stakeholder Theory A key feature of CSR involves the way that a company engages, involves, and collaborates with its stakeholders including shareholders, employees, debt-holders, suppliers, customers, communities, non-governmental organisations, and governments. M. C. Branco and L. L. Rodrigues (2007) argued that companies need to use stakeholder engagement to internalise societys needs, hopes, circumstances into their corporate views and decision-making. While there are many questions about how far a companys responsibilities extend into communities relative to the roles of governments and individual citizens, there is a strong argument that CSR can effectively improve a companys relations with communities and thereby produce some key features that will improve business prospects for its future. Agency Theory This theory comes to explain the relationship that exists between the owners/shareholders and the management. As such the latter is the agent which appointed by the principal (owner/subsidiary) and problems such as the potential moral hazard and conflict of interest are likely to occur. CSR comes as a middle way so that both parties can maximise their gains. As such, when CFP is strong, managers may reduce social expenditures in order to maximise their own short term private gains whereas when CFP weakens, managers will try to offset their disappointing results by engaging in conspicuous social programs, hence increasing their own wealth and that of shareholders as well, pursuant to the managerial opportunism hypothesis by Preston OBannon (1997). 2.2 Theoretical Review 2.2.1 Corporate Financial Performance (CFP) Most of the businesses operate with a view of yielding profits. The financial performance of a company is reflected through its policies and operations in monetary terms. These results are reflected through its return on investment, return on assets, value added, return on sale and growth in sales. Managers work in the best interest of shareholders to maximise profits. Financial performance is the most common, however, it cannot be considered as the only indicator used to measure a firms wealth. A broader definition of financial performance is accompanied by additional indicators such as short-term profits, long-term profits, market value, and other forms of competitive advantage, as noted by Jensen (2001). 2.2.2 Corporate Social Performance and CFP Many previous studies have indicated an unclear relationship between CSR and financial performance. Thus, literature has pointed out towards an innovation in bringing the concept of CSP to better explore its impact upon corporate financial performance (CFP). In todays world, for a firm to achieve a good and high level of CFP, it has to go beyond the limits of its own corporate strategies and adopt views of other stakeholders who may be directly or indirectly related to the company. Since over the three decades, the study of the correlation between CSP and CFP has gained much salience. Many studies conducted in this effect have yielded positive correlation, while others produced contradictory results with negative or non-significant different causal directions being found. In effect, there are several competing theoretical models which are proposed to explain three varying findings on the CSP-CFP link. Owing to these differing relationships, I.Y. Maroam (2006) proposes a unified theory of the CSP-CFP link that explain the different relationships that may be observed between CSR and CFP, thus basing itself on the parallels between the business and CSR domains. The concept of CSR instils in corporations the moral responsibility towards society that go beyond the goal of simply making profits for their owners and shareholders (Berman et al., 1999). As Freeman (1984) rightly pointed out that corporations should be socially responsible for both moral and practical (instrumental) reasons, by reflecting a socially responsible posture, a corporation can enhance its own performance. Thus, CSR activities can, inter-alia, be rewarded with more satisfied customers, better employee, improved reputation, and improved access to financial markets, all pertaining to improving financial performance and sustaining the business. However, social accomplishments may equally involve certain financial costs which can effectively reduce profits and comparative performance. Hence, Vance (1975) came up with the trade-off hypothesis to show negative linkage between CSP and CFP whereby corporations displaying strong social credentials experience declining stock price s relative to the market average. 2.2.3 CSP as a Business Strategy So far, it is clear that CSP can be used as a business strategy which can contribute to the competitive advantage of firms. A study by N. A. Dentchey (2004) on the effects of CSP on the competitiveness of organisations reveals that CSP should not be thought as an innocent adventure for executives. It is rather a strategy for achieving corporate strategies, which if not warily implemented, may harm the firms competitive advantage. Competitive advantage, as seen by Porter (1996), denotes the ability of a company to outperform others from successful differentiation from rivals actions. This strategic fit between the outside environment and companies internal resources and capabilities (Hoskissoon et al., 1999) results in superior financial results, as indicated by various measures of profitability. Hence, as per Burke and Logsdon (1996), a strategic implementation of social responsibility benefits all by resulting in strategic outcomes such as customer loyalty, future purchases, new products, new markets and productivity gains. Arguably, CSP can be a source of competitive disadvantage for firms which regard CSP as an additional cost. Business contributions to social prosperity (CSP) are seen by Keim (1978, p.33) as an investment in public good which is consumed or enjoyed by a number of individuals disregarding the cost sharing. Thus, investing in CSP is likely to bear negative effects for the firms which are in curring costs that might otherwise be avoided or that should be borne by others, for example, individuals or government (Aupperle et al., 1985). 2.2.4 CSP, CFP and the Stakeholder Theory Following the above arguments, a new perspective of CSP, based on the stakeholder analysis, emerges to argue furthermore that there exists a positive relationship between CSP and CFP. As such, S.A. Waddock and S.B. Graves (1997) propose that a tension exists between the firms explicit costs (for instance, payments to bondholders) and its implicit costs to other stakeholders (for example, product quality costs, and environmental costs). Hence, a firm which tries to outweigh its explicit costs by increasing its socially responsible actions incurs higher implicit costs, resulting in competitive advantage. Thus, high levels of CSP are seen as indicators of superior management by Alexander and Buchholz (1982) which lead to lower explicit costs and enhanced financial performance. The stakeholder theory accompanies the concept of CSR by shedding more light on the issue of social responsibility. This theory is spread over three aspects (Donaldson and Preston, 1995) namely, descriptive, instrumental and normative. While the descriptive aspect describes and explains the theory, the instrumental aspect discloses the cause-effect relationships between stakeholder management practices and improving corporate performance. The normative aspect, on the other hand, as perceived by I.Y. Maroam (2006) emphasizes on the moral imperatives for practising stakeholder management, rather than the business benefits it may provide. A parallelism between the core business domain and the CSR domain will maximise a firms profitability. The stakeholder theory provides a framework for investigating the relationship between CSP and CFP by examining how a change in CSP is related to a change in financial accounting measures. In fact, the two concepts of CSR and stakeholder share the proposition that social responsibility affects financial performance in some way or other. This subject area has been so vastly explored that this trend is now seen as a natural progression which goes associatively with developments in the industrial and business world. There is an increasing concern and emphasize on humanity, environmental preservation and enlightened social consciousness. Thus, a new area of research began to pave its way within the field of business and society where the relationship between corporate social conduct, both toward the corporations stakeholders and the wider society, and the corporations financial performance was and is still being investigated across several countries. Over environmental issues, research h as revealed that businesses which are eco-friendly and demonstrate good CSR practices enjoy increased consumer purchase preference (Gildea, 1994; Zaman, 1996) and good economic performance (Al-Tuwaijiri, et al., 2004). A stakeholder group, as identified and defined by Freeman (1984), is one that that can affect or is affected by achievement of the organisations objectives, that is, which can be harmed as well as can help it to achieve its goals. Therefore, there is a growing need for firms to address the needs and expectations of the stakeholders to avoid negative outcomes and produce positive outcomes for themselves (Donaldson and Preston, 1995; Freeman, 1984; Frooman, 1997). Pursuant to the stakeholder theory perspective, CSP can be assessed in terms of a company meeting the demands of multiple stakeholders, ranging from cost minimisation to societal maximisation. Building on the previous mentioned definition of CSP, Wood and Jones (1995) propose that stakeholder theory is the key to understanding the structure and dimensions of the firms societal relationships thereby assuming that firms are responsible for honouring all the implicit and explicit contracts they hold with their various constituen ts. Therefore, the stakeholder theory provides a system-based perspective of the organisation and its stakeholders where it acknowledges the dynamic and complex nature of the interplay between them. The various stakeholders of the firms, such as the employees, shareholders, financers, environmentalists, government, communities, customers and even competitors should be convinced by the management that it is working harder to satisfy them. The more important the stakeholders to the firm, the more effort the firm needs to put to uphold its relationship with the former. According to Clarkson, Donaldson and Preston et al. (1995), the stakeholder theory must place shareholders as one of the multiple stakeholder groups which managers should consider in their decision-making process. However, like the shareholders, the other stakeholders may have a say upon the firm, bestowing societal legitimacy. Notably, Bernadette M. Ruf et al. (2001) asserted that firms must address these non-shareholder gro ups demands otherwise they might face negative confrontations which can ultimately result in diminished shareholder value, through boycotts, lawsuits, protests and so on. Hence, firms have a fiduciary duty relationship not only to the shareholders, but to all stakeholders (Hasnas, 1998, p.32). So far, recognising a companys contractual relationship with the various stakeholders has been instrumental in better comprehending the relationship that CSP and CFP share. Stakeholders have expectations from the organisation. Nevertheless, these expectations may conflict with the firms limited resources leading the firm to evaluate its costs and benefits tradeoffs. Firms must thus come with measures representative of the various factors of CSP and stakeholders interests. Unlike neo-classical stockholders who were only interested in financial performance (Grouf, 1994; Shapiro, 1992), the major stakeholders of today, that is, the stockholders are more interested in the firms current and future financial benefits and social performance. 2.3 Empirical Review This section reviews the works done and methods used by researchers on the relationship of CFP and CSP. Empirical results on the latters correlation are mixed whereby some yielded in positive, some in negative and some in non-significant relationships. Basing on the stakeholder theory approach, several models on the CFP-CSP relationship have been proposed, where the largest number of investigations found a positive CSP-CFP linkage. Notably, different methods to compute indexes for CFP and CSP have been used since data on both cannot be possibly obtained in absolute figures. As such, using aggregated weights assigned to K dimensions of social performance obtained through questionnaire for CSP and using change in return on equity (ROE), change in return on sales (ROS) and growth in sales as financial measures on a sample of 496 firms, Bernadette M. Ruf et al. (2001) came up with a positive relationship between CSP and CFP. They, in fact, regressed change in CSP on change in CFP. The results revealed a significant positive relationship between change in CSP and change in ROE and change in ROS in the long term but that with growth in sales was significantly positive only in year 0 and 1. The study suggests that improvements in CSP have both immediate and continuing financial impacts. The authors have furthermore suggested that since many financial performance measures follow a random walk or mean reversion  [1]  , it is important to use lead/lag studies to establish a causal sequence of CSP and CFP. Concerning time period, one year may be short in strat egic terms and could well be distorted by rogue figures, hence, it suggested to take two or five years data in analyses. A paper by S. A. Waddock and S. B. Graves (1997) also found positive linkage between CFP and CSP. An index for CSP was computed using eight attributes relating to shareholder concerns and were rated consistently across the entire Standards Poors 500 by a rating service. The firms profitability was measured using three accounting variables, namely, return on assets (ROA), ROE and ROS used to assess CFP by the investment community. Factors such as size, risk and industry which affect both CFP and CSP were taken as control variables. Used on a sample of 469 companies and using CSP as both dependent and independent variable, the results revealed that CFP does depend on CSP and vice-versa and also indicated the importance of controlling for industry in assessing such a relationship. Size has been suggested in previous studies, like that of Ullman (1985), to be a factor which affects both CFP and CSP. Size remains a relevant variable because there had been evidence that smaller firms may not demonstrate the same obvious socially responsible behaviours as larger firms. Authors like Pinkston and Carroll (1993), for instance, investigated the extent social responsibility orientations, organisational stakeholders, and social issues can differ among firms of differing sizes. P. A. Stanwick and S. D. Stanwick (1998), on the other hand, found a significant positive association between size (annual sales) and CFP at the 10% level for three of the six years of their study. Firm size is particularly the scale of operations in an organisation (Price and Mueller (1986, p. 233)). Previous literature has indicated a need to control not only for industry, and size (Ullman, 1985; Waddock and Graves, 1997), but also for risk (McWilliams and Siegel, 2000) to render research results more complete. The argument to use risk as a control variable is supported by the fact that the degree of risk is seen as the other important component of firm performance assumed by a firm in order to achieve a given level of financial performance as stated by Bettis and Hall (1982). Baird and Thomas (1985) also advocated risk as being both as a strategic variable (firms choose a given level of risk) and as an outcome variable (strategic choices lead to a level of risk) which ultimately leads to improved financial performance. As such, M. Brine, R. Brown and G. Hackett (2004) used risk alongside size as control variables to assess financial performance of 277 companies. Their preliminary results stated that the adoption of CSR does lead to increases in turnover and also an increase in equity, which in turn improve the CFP level. To bring more integrity, M. Orlitzky et al. (2003) conducted a quantitative meta-analysis on the CFP-CSP relationship building on the hypothesis that CSP and CFP are generally positively related leading to competencies, learning, efficiency and reputation-building with its external stakeholders. Taking CFP as a companys financial viability through three broad subdivisions consisting of market-based (investor returns), accounting-based (accounting returns), and perceptual (survey) measures and constructing CSP through four broad measurement strategies, namely: (a) CSP disclosures (annual reports, letters to shareholders); (b) CSP reputation ratings; (c) social audits, CSP processes, and observable outcomes; and (d) managerial CSP principles and values (Post, 1991), the study suggests that corporate virtue in the form of social responsibility and, to a lesser extent, environmental responsibility can pay off, despite the CSP-CFP operationalisations can also moderate the positive associa tion. CSP appeared to be more highly correlated with accounting-based measures of CFP than with market-based indicators, and CSP reputation indices were more highly correlated with CFP than are other indicators. According to Mahoney L. and Roberts R.W. (2007), there is no significant relationship between a composite measure of firms CSP and CFP. Using four years panel data of Canadian firms, they calculated a composite measure of CSP score by summing all dimension strength ratings, such as, community relations, diversity, employee relations, environment, international, product safety, and amongst others and subtracting all dimension weaknesses ratings. Following Waddock and Graves (1997a), ROA and ROE were used separately to measure a firms CFP. As CFP was expected to be positively related to CSP, a one-year lag between CFP and all independent variables (CSP, firm size, debt level, and industry) was used. Inconsistent with their expectation, they found no significant relationship between the composite CSP measure and either ROA or ROE. However, the use of individual measures of firms CSP regarding environmental and international activities and CFP resulted in a significant relationship provi ding mixed support for the business case for CSP. A study, using the Granger causality approach, by Rim Makni et al. (2008) reaffirms Mahoney and Roberts (2007) works on the non-significant relationship. However, there may also be a simultaneous and interactive negative relation between CSP and CFP, forming a vicious circle.

Wednesday, November 13, 2019

Understanding Zapatista Longevity :: Mexico Economics Politics Zapatista Essays

Understanding Zapatista Longevity When Mexican President Vincente Fox rode into office on a wave of popular support in 2000, he inherited the Zapatista rebellion in Chiapas. In 1994, the largely indigenous Zapatista movement began a military campaign to protest economic and political disenfranchisement. Vincente Fox claimed that he could solve the Zapatista uprising in â€Å"15 minutes.† Like his predecessor, he has failed to solve the problem. How did the Zapatistas achieve such longevity in the confines of the â€Å"perfect dictatorship?† When Mexico entered the international economy, it opened itself to global scrutiny. Mexico’s trading partners have kept an eye on Mexico’s human rights record. Mexico simply could not crush the Zapatista rebellion with an iron fist: â€Å"Mexicans and the international community will not accept a genocidal war in Chiapas† (Collier 167). Furthermore, global connections empowered Mexican human rights organizations to exert more leverage on the Mexican government to moderate their repression. The Zapatistas were particularly adept at using the internet to voice their demands and to protest the excesses of the Mexican government. The Mexican government also faced legal restraints which prevented an all-out war on the Zapatistas. After the uprising 1994 and the government counter-attack in 1995, the federal congress passed a law for dialogue in 1995. This foreclosed the option of a unilateral show of force by the Mexican army in areas under Zapatista control. The jungles of Chiapas also made a complete military victory improbable. The government changed its tactics to end the rebellion, resorting to low intensity war. Paramilitaries with differing levels of tacit and explicit support terrorized Zapatistas and their sympathizers. The killings in Acteal in 1997 that claimed the lives of 45 innocent people remains a particularly gruesome example of paramilitary massacres. Most importantly, the Mexican government lots the war of ideas. Though the Mexican government maintained a virtual monopoly of the press, Marcos and the Zapatistsas managed to diffuse their ideas and goals across the country. Though many did not support their violent tactics, the Zapatistas brought attention to the â€Å"plight of those at the losing end of Mexico’s economic globalization, particularly the indigenous groups who were losing both their livehood and their hopes for self-determination† (155). Marcos’ articulate and incisive letters put the government on the â€Å"moral defense† (168). Despite the government’s efforts, support for the Zapatistas increased. The government believed it had scored a victory when it revealed in 1994 that Sub-commandante Marcos was in fact a non-indiginours former philosophy student.

Sunday, November 10, 2019

Air India

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Tawfik Jelassi in his book Strategies for e Business defined as the use of electronic means to perform an organisation’s business. It’s a development in the e Commerce deals with online sales,online payment, Online Marketing etc. Since the introduction of E business in 1995 it’s been a part in the growth of the company and changing the business structure. As a part of partial fulfilment of my module I have chosen Air India web site.Air India is one of the leading carriers in International airways in INDIA it uses website extensively for the booking of tickets and promotional strategies E business has became a tool for their growth in the past two years. This report is classified into Two parts in the first part Overview to the company and website is given and the Second part is all about Branding, Segmentation, ease of use and transactional facilities followed by conclusion and recommendations. COMPANY OVERVIEW:Air India is an India based world wide airlines company operating both passenger and cargo flights ranging from Boeing 747’s to Airbus A -310. From the day the first flight took of way back in October 15,1932 it is representing the perfect example of both class and quality . Air India is set to transform into world class airline carrier after it’s merger with Indian Airlines the leader in the domestic sector of airlines in India. In addition to the basic facilities providing to the passengers it also provide wide range of in-flight facilities such as Air Shows, Catering etc.Cargo Division of Air India transports wide range of goods and a shipment tracking service is also available online. Air India has got the Infrastructure along with the network which ensures safe transportation and delivery of cargo world wide. From the past three years there is a phenomenal growth on both US and European sector since 2002 network has been expanded to Newark, Los Angeles along with New York and Chicago in US / Numbe r of flights running to these destinations were increased from 10 to 24 flights includes daily services to Newark, New York, Chicago and a thrice a week flight to LosAngeles.Number of flights to United Kingdom were increased from 10 to 30 flights out of which 20 leave to London and Five To Birmingham. There is a significant increase in the frequency of flights to Far East and South Eastern Asia. In April 2005 Air India’s low cost subsidiary Airlines AIR INDIA EXPRESS came into existence operating flights to UAE, Qatar, Oman and Singapore. For the Financial Year ending March 2006 AIR INDIA has made a net profit of Rs 87,480 million with a 15% growth over the previous year. WEBSITE OVERVIEW: [pic]Web site is very informative with all the necessary attributes what an airline should have along with the special offers they have got with them. Through the internet ticket booking which is available on the website a passenger can book tickets of his choice up to five adults, four chi ldren and two infants and can pay the fare through debit card or credit card at a time. These bookings can be made from three hours to 360 days prior to the departure of the flight. There are three kinds of ticketing methods available they are electronic ticketing, ticket by mail and ticket pick up at Airport .We can check the Time table of the flights, status of the flight both arrivals and departure along with the special requirements if needed such as meal preferences, seat and wheel chair. A clear idea regarding the cargo services offered by the Air Lines is given very clearly such as destinations they cover, specific weight limitations to particular destinations and the types of services they offer along with the cargo tracking facility through which we can know the delivery status of the shipment. Air India is distributing e tickets through AMADEUS.Now Air India will offer the Amadeus – enabled e ticketing services across all of its International and Domestic services. This made the most content of the website available to the travel agencies this enables Air India to keep up the progress to improve both efficiency and Customer service. Branding: A brand as defined by Philip Kotler is a term, sign, symbol or combination of these which is used by the consumers to identify the goods and services of one seller or group of sellers and to differentiate them from those of the competitors .Brand identifies a market or the seller it can also be named as trade mark, Logo etc. A brand is a promise by the seller to deliver constant benefit’s, features and services for the consumers. Brands vary with the amount of power and value they have got in the market. There are brands which have high degree of Brand Awareness, Brand Acceptability, Brand Preference and Brand Loyalty.High brand equity provides a number of advantages such as reduction of marketing costs because of brand awareness and brand loyalty, launch of extension’s become easy because o f brand name and creditability, this also offers the company some defence against the price competition. A brand name needs to be carefully managed to maintain its brand equity in the market to maintain so the companies should require to improve brand awareness, perceived quality and functionality and the positive association ( Philip Kotler, Marketing Management Millennium edition pg no 406).Air India follows all the fundamentals of branding to maintain its brand equity. Air India came into the market in 1946 with a Muscat of Maharaja (Emperor) which is very popular among the costumers in India. The Muscat symbolizes graciousness and rich living. This attempt of using Muscat took Air India’s sales and promotional messages to millions of passengers across the world. Price with quality gives value and value is why people tend to choose one brand over the other. Brand Marketing, Joe Marconi(2000), page 34) this is what Air India follows and gaining loyalty among the costumers. All the offers and the promotional strategies they follow help in maintaining the brand equity. The varied facilities they provide in the flight including Dining, Music ranging from Indian to western and Japanese music and videos in India to Japan flights is one among the unique features it has got which is attracting the passengers who fly from and to Japan.The Frequent Flyer programme and Flying Return Programme are introduced increases the brand loyalty. Air India is increasing its services to maintain it’s brand equity and attracting the new costumers by starting flights to the new destinations and creating a new sector in the cabin crew for the passengers with special needs all these helps Air India to live in the minds of the customers as a strong brand.The quality of service and the commitment to increase the costumer satisfaction makes Air India a top brand in India in the aviation sector and with it’s merger with Indian Airlines it is going create the same imp act on the domestic passengers as it created on the international customers from the past 56 years when they came into the market as a brand. MARKET SEGMENTATION: According to Philip Kotler ‘market segmentation is and effort done to increase the company’s precision marketing’. To segment consumer markets usually researchers look at the consumer characteristics such as Geographic, demographic, psychographic and behaviour. . Geographical Segmentation: It involves dividing the markets into different geographical units such as Nations,States,Regions,Counties, Cities and Neighbourhoods. 2. Demographical Segmentation: The market is divided into groups on the basis of variables such as Age, Size of the family, Family life cycle, gender, Income, Occupation, Education, Religion, Race, Generation, Nationality and Social Class. 3. Psychographic Segmentation: In Psychographic Segmentation buyers or customers are divided into different groups based on lifecycle or personality and values. . Behavioural Segmentation: Here Buyers or Consumers are divided on the basis of their Attitude towards the product or company, use of it, benefits, usage rate, loyalty status, Buyer Readiness stage . AIR INDIA’S market segmentation is a mix of all the consumer behaviour segmentation’s as mentioned above. Factors such as, Air fare which varies from destinations to destinations this supports that based on the destinations the costumers travel fare depends on to which destination they are flying is Demographic way of segmentation.The company’s website clearly provides all the basic necessities what an Airlines company should have. A passenger can book tickets whose family comprises up to five adults, four children and two infants where majority of family member range across the globe fall into this category. Seating arrangement are broadly classified into three based on the facilities provided like any other airlines. The three classes are First Class , Executive Class & Economy Class. The Preferences of the customers to book the class usually depends on their income, occupation, and Social Class.On the website if we se the two options while we book the ticket they are Restrictive fare and Flexible fare supports the above statement to some extent. All the variables such as Family size, income, occupation and social class are taken into consideration they all come under Demographic segmentation hence we can justify that the market segmentation of Air India follows Demographic segmentation. People who have got a life style of spending lavishly and love to be in esteemed state usually go with 1st class this life style is a variable of Psychographic segmentation.Air India provides extreme benefits for the passengers along with the basic needs such as Dining which offers a varied choice of menus ranging from Indian, Continental, to western nouvelle cuisine and Japanese meals on the India – Japan route if any passenger has got s pecial requirement varied choice of meals as many as 23 special meals whose details are present on the website. Serving first class passengers in Royal Dolton Bone China Crockery nd alcoholic bewarages which are served as complimentary in all classes are some examples of the benefits they provide the customers. Added to this in flight entertainment is provided with all accesses to different radio channels and offering music ranging from Indian to Jazz, Pop etc along with different videos of bollywood and many other regional languages are offered. Frequent Flyer programme and Flying return programme are the most attractive offers for the air India costumers through this they earn mileage points to redeem their tickets faster.Flying return programme has a membership of over 2,00,000 in India , Gulf, UK, USA, all these offer’s and the benefits they provide increase the loyalty status and usage rate and all these are the variables of the behavioural segmentation. Hence from the a bove points it is clear and evident that the marketing segmentation of Air India is mix of all the consumer characteristic segments. EASE OF USE: Air lines are using internet as an effective information dissemination and revenue generating channel (Connoly,Olsen Moore 1998).Standing(2000) claimed that the web has changed from pushing firms and services to pulling clients into value added opportunities that a company provide. According to Stuat (1996) an online catalogue should provide all the information what exactly customers need to make a purchase decision. All the promotions should include product information , product pricing and online ordering information. Connoly , Olsen, Moore (1998) argued that customers should know about Air Ticket prices , Schedules , and flight availability .Kucway (1997) stated that a appropriate airline website for starter should offer schedules , frequent flyer membership, tickets information and updated contact numbers for making reservations and a step beyond that is ability to make e- reservations. Airlines compete not only among each other but also with the other online travel agents such as Travelocity supported by SABRE and Expedia supported by Microsoft. The most common complaints about an about any web page is the lengthy time needed to load the web pages and loads of graphical images though these kind of graphical images attract the viewer.For every 10 sec taken by the graphics to be loaded before the webpage content can be seen there is a risk of loosing 20% of viewers (Taylor 1999). So web designers should try to avoid putting heavy graphical images on the home page and should provide link’s to the related sites or pages where the information is quoted. A successful business website notices customers to visit and purchase as it offers something of value more than that the customers cannot find any where else (Theobald and Dunsmore 2000) Some of the basic characteristics that make a successful airline website a re (Stout 1996) 1.Availability of product pricing and product information. 2. Online ordering information for general products and services. 3. Provision for extra benefits for customers such as discounts on fares etc. 4. Fast loading web pages especially where home page is located. 5. Graphics should be kept in a small display size and scrolling text should be avoided. 6. And to cultivate customer loyalty. Air India website has got all the features what a successful air lines website should have except problem with home page loading.It is very easy to accesses the website the website is developed in such a way that a viewer or the customer can be able to know all the information he needs . It provides the customers with the fleet i. e. with all the aircrafts they have got with them and which kind aircraft they are using for which destinations this is one of the unique feature of this website. All the general information such as booking the tickets , destinations where they fly , of fers they have got with them , special requests baggage tracking facility online etc. One of the unique features of this website is online cargo tracking facility.At the bottom of the homepage there links provided through which one can access the FAQ’s, Investor relations. About the Airlines etc. The website has been segmented into different pages and it is very easy to access the information it follows all the basic concepts and keep it’s brand name alive. Dave Chaffy in stated some principles which should be followed to design an effective webpage. If the web site is designed on these principles it will be user friendly and Air India website is one of the example of such websites with some exceptions.If the website is friendly then only the company can retain it’s costumers Air India is one of such website. TRANSACTIONAL FACILITIES: Transactional facilities are one of the important characters of an airline website. As these airline websites are meant for reser vations and payment of money usually so transactions are done at a higher rate on these websites. Company should be trusty and should give a durable service and the transactions should be secure Air India has got a data protection service which is present on the website.It’s a kind of procedure followed while a passengers books a ticket as a measure of extending the security system one should be able to provide all the details of his including Passport number etc by using or becoming a YATRIK ID holder after this the costumer is directed to purchase of ticket where there is a credit card or debit card verification system. The transaction process is very easy after the costumer pays the fare then immediately there will be mail including everything in the costumer’s mail box .Air India has got a well implemented technology and security features to safe guard the all the personal and transactional details. CONCLUSION: From the above all points we can conclude that Air Ind ia is one of the best example for an success full Air Line company operating the website. Website is filed with all the important information what a customer or passenger needs before booking tickets. All the offers and the destinations to which they fly and the shipment tracking facility on line is one of the important and unique feature of the website.RECOMMENDATIONS: By having a overall look at there are no significant problems with the website except the time taken by the home page to load which is the same case with many pages on the website. For every 10 seconds it takes for the graphics to be loaded before the complete Web page contents can be seen, there is a risk of losing 20% of the viewers (Taylor 1999) so keeping this view point the web page designers should be able to provide a efficient service overcoming this problem. The designers can break up the huge web page into multiple pages (Howe 1999).REFRENCES: ? www. airindia. in. ? http://www. m-travel. com/news/2007/05/ai r_india_to_di. html. ? Marketing Management by Philip Kotler Millennium edition. ? A study of Airlines ‘Online Reservations on the Internet Rob Law and Rita Leung. Journal of Travel research 2000;39;202. ? www. datamonitor. com Airlines in India Industry Profile November 2007 edition ,Reference code 0102-0756 ? E commerce Fundamentals and applications Henry chan, Ray Mondlee, Tharam Dillon, Elizabeth Chang 2001.