The Old Man and the Sea as an Allegory: Sharks

The Old Man and the Sea as an Allegory: Sharks The novel â€Å"The Old Man and the Sea† was an allegory for Hemingway’s life, meaning the book was symbolic to Ernest’s journey and struggles. In this novel, the old man was faced with a dramatic life or death situation when he was getting chased by sharks while catching for the marlin. â€Å"The old man's head was clear and good now and he was full of resolution but he had little hope. It was too good to last, he thought. He took one look at the great fish as he watched the shark close in† (101).The â€Å"sharks† are planning to hurt him and Santiago just notices it. These sharks are symbolic to Ernest’s problems and demons as an author, as they were much like â€Å"sharks† in the fact that they caused him a lot of trouble and worry. A few of these â€Å"sharks† were his parents and his poorly received book â€Å"Across the River and Into the Trees. † For example, Hemingway ’s parents did not want him to become a writer. They wanted him to go to college and pursue a different path.His parents were like the â€Å"sharks† because just like how the sharks were trying to eat the old man, his parents were â€Å"eating† his plans and future. The critics of his were also â€Å"sharks. † Hemingway’s critics were not exactly the nicest to him about his book â€Å"Across the River and Into the Trees. † â€Å"However, O'Hara's was one of the few good reviews, with negative reviews appearing in more than 150 publications. Critics claimed the novel was too emotional, had inferior prose and a â€Å"static plot†, and that Cantwell was an â€Å"avatar† for Hemingway's character Nick Adams. (Wikipedia) Hemingway’s books are symbolic to his life, and for it to be criticized as too emotional, boring, and like a bad autobiography can be taken to heart. The critics were â€Å"sharks† because they had no mercy with Hemingway, they ate up prey (beat his book to the ground) and left nothing behind, which is cruel to his artistry and his pride. The above clearly shows that Hemingway had to deal with â€Å"sharks† as a writer, which were his parents and his critics.

Fahrenheit 451 Critical Essay

Jamie Moseley 17, October, 2012 Ms. Telesca English 101H Fahrenheit 451 Analysis In all societies, knowledge breeds life and understanding about mankind and the world surrounding it. Without the purposeful application of knowledge, the entropy of ignorance sweeps civilization into ruin and decay. In Fahrenheit 451, Bradbury asserts the point that knowledge is the foundation of civilization and if removed, what is left is a decaying society ravaged by stupidity and immorality. War, technology, and paradox sculpt a world that treats lies as truth and knowledge as sin.The characters in Fahrenheit 451 use technology as a mirroring motif, reflecting the characteristics of the society that invents things like headphones, bio-purging systems, and grotesque mechanical beasts. At first, headphones seem like a harmless invention, but actually showcase the fruitless â€Å"knowledge† of the people who use it. Montag discovers this when he observes Mildred using â€Å"the little Seashells , the thimble radios tamped tight, and an electronic ocean of sound . . . coming in on the shore of her unsleeping mind† (Bradbury 10).What Mildred listens to is not knowledgeable information, but merely a bombardment of sound and useless facts used to asphyxiate her mind. The Seashell radios force information on the listener to block out thought and short-circuit the listener’s creative faculties. Again Mildred uses the radios, but Montag finds her â€Å"eyes wide and staring at the fathoms of blackness above her in the ceiling† (39), as though she is nothing but a shell. It is interesting that the radios are called Seashells for seashells mimic the sound of the ocean just as the listeners of the radios mimic the information of the ocean of sound.People become nothing more than seashells that echo back the same bogus facts as truth without question. This empty society not only depresses free thought, but also dehumanizes its citizens. In the beginning of the boo k, Montag walks home to find Mildred overdosing on sleeping pills and calls the emergency line. In no time, two men walk in with two machines that are used to purge Mildred’s system. One machine â€Å"slid[es] down into your stomach like a black cobra down an echoing well looking for all the old water . . † (11) while the other is like an eye giving the operator the ability to â€Å"gaze into the soul of a person whom he was pumping out†(11). These machines invade the victim’s body in a way that violates the person’s humanity. The blood transfusion results in the victim becoming a wind-up toy. This incident portrays the indifference toward an individual’s life because of the violation of one’s body and disregard for personal emotion. However, the best embodiment of Montag’s society is the mechanical hound.The hound is introduced as an almost undead creature, one that â€Å"live[s] but [does] not live in its gently humming . . . kennel in a dark corner of the firehouse† (21). Like the hound, its creators neither live nor die but simply exist in a dark, backwards existence and wait for their next orders. The game of bets and death the firemen play explains the hound’s purpose. The hound traps its prey, â€Å"gripp[ing] in gentling paws while a four-inch hollow steel needle plunge[s] down from the proboscis of the hound to inject massive jolts of morphine and procaine† (23).The people, or prey, of this civilization are trapped by a gentle, yet nightmarish circumstance which injects massive amounts of false pleasure and phony facts that create a surreal yet entertaining state of being like the side effects of morphine and procaine. After Montag witnesses the killing, he asks Beatty if the hound is alive. Beatty immediately responds: â€Å"’ Come off it. It doesn’t like or dislike. It just ‘functions’ . . . † (24). The masses merely â€Å"function† like the hound going day to day in a mindless state of existence like mechanical creations. Also, the hound with â€Å"its eight incredible insect legs . . . (23) exposes the distortion of reality that is believed by people who would call this monstrous creation a hound though there is almost no resemblance between it and a dog. It is one of the twisted machines that make up the dystopia Montag lives in. Underneath the futuristic advances of this civilization lies the true dystopian world that is Fahrenheit 451. Like George Orwell’s 1984, constant war in foreign regions is present in this culture as bombers fly overhead every night like the rocket bombs of Winston’s world. Montag, in the heat of rage, questions the war effort and asks â€Å"’ Why doesn’t someone want to talk about it!We’ve started and won two atomic wars since 2022! ’† (69). Even after two atomic wars, the bombers still fly in formation, striking fear into the popula ce and rallying it together to focus its attention on a greater cause instead of the quality of their lives. War is inescapable on the radio where Montag hears the radio announce that â€Å". . . war may be declared any hour . . . † (30), which keeps the population on alert and standing by to defend its borders rather than defending their individual lives from the invasion of ignorance. Killing also unveils the dilapidated social structure as Clarisse states, â€Å"’ I’m afraid of children my own age.They kill each other’† (27). Death no longer inhibits the actions of others, but instead becomes a common fact of everyday life like breathing. Even Mildred, who comments on Montag’s need to smash things, suggests taking the beetle for a spin. â€Å"’ It’s fun out in the country. You hit rabbits, sometimes you hit dogs. Go take the beetle’† (61). Killing has no consequence anymore whether one kills an animal or murder s a human. Death, like war, distracts people through fear. Everyone fears for their own life, but cares nothing for the lives of others. Suicide, however, is the exception to this rule.When one â€Å"enjoys† their life so much, they commit suicide. One of the operators who saves Mildred from overdosing casually says â€Å"’ we get these cases nine or ten times a night’† (13), as if it is nothing serious. On top of that, he also states that â€Å"’ you take out the old [blood] and put in the new [blood] and you’re okay’† (12). The reason for suicide is that the people lead such hollow lives wrapped in cheap entertainment which leaves them without purpose. The lack of knowledge does not help because with knowledge, one can assume a purpose and make reason to life.Without it, there is no way to find a purpose and therefore people toss themselves away. However, they are given their meaningless lives back through transfusion and beg in again the downward spiral surrounded by paradox and contradiction. To place the final nail in the coffin of free thought, paradoxical ideas are substituted for knowledge that leaves society vacuous. Like the Ministry of Love in 1984, the firemen are a contradiction of good and evil. Beatty tells Montag that they are â€Å"’ the Happiness Boys, the Dixie Duo . . . we stand against the small tide of those who want to make everyone unhappy . . ’† (59) though they bring destruction and even death wherever they are sent. Yet, they whole-heartedly believe that their duty is one of ultimate justice for the good of man whereas it is the opposite. This twisting of reality appears in the television shows like Mildred’s â€Å"family†. She feels like she belongs with them, crying out â€Å"’ my ‘family’ is people. They tell me things; I laugh, they laugh! ’† (69). The â€Å"family† creates a sense of belonging and in clusion that actually excludes and cuts the viewer off from the real world by satisfying the need for information.Watching television is an exclusive affair which Montag soon realizes. In frustration, Montag asks Mildred, â€Å"’ does your ‘family’ love, love you very much, love you with all their heart and soul, Millie? ’† (73). What Mildred feels for the ‘family’ is a surrogate set of emotions, substituting fact and truth with what she sees and hears, causing her to truly love the â€Å"family† even though it is merely a program. Beatty explains the constant attack of pseudo-knowledge and emotion: â€Å"’Cram them full of noncombustible data, chock them so damned full of ‘facts’ they feel stuffed , but absolutely brilliant with information’† (58).He goes on to say â€Å"’ if the drama is bad, if the film says nothing, if the play is hollow, sting me with the Theremin, loudly . . . I jus t like solid entertainment’† (58). What Beatty is alluding to is if the masses are overrun with useless information, paradoxical ideas, and false emotions, they will believe that they understand the world around them from what they have absorbed and consider it truth and live in stupid intelligence which is the greatest paradox presented. Like light and darkness, knowledge drives off ignorance.However, Bradbury creates a culture where knowledge is stifled in an impenetrable web of ignorance that dictates the lives of the characters in Fahrenheit 451. Murder, machines, and contradictions are used to give false purpose and reason to humanity in place of knowledge. The hero Montag journeys through this dangerous environment in an attempt to find himself and uncover the horrific truth that without reason, destruction and rot await to consume all who ignore intelligence. Works Cited Bradbury, Ray. Fahrenheit 451. New York: Simon and Schuster, 1967. Print.

Natural Resources, Conflict and Conflict Resolution Research Paper

Natural Resources, Conflict and Conflict Resolution - Research Paper Example It will also look at how samples will be chose and studied for further deductions that will end up in the formation of an appropriate theory. This paper also contains limitations that are inherent in a research of this nature. The problem statement refers to fundamental problem in society that gives impetus for the enquiry to begin in a research (Harvey 2006). Anyone with some knowledge of the American revolution is aware that colonized population of the 13 states of America were fed up with the British taxes and tyrannical rule that practically enslaved the people. This is a common explanation for the revolt and uprising that followed between 1771 and 1776 when the British were eventually kicked out. However, a practical research can be set up in an attempt to evaluate the exact cause or a single cause of the uprising of the Patriots in this context. There is a wide range of issues that can come up this include the taxes, the justice system, general resentment etc. A research question is seen as â€Å"an explanatory question a researcher asks about variables of interest† (Wrench et al, 2003). In other words, when the researcher has an idea of what the research will be about, s/he can come up with a research question that will suit the situation. However, Wench et al (2003) continue to state that a research question should be formulated after some review of literature. In this case, the researcher needs to go through existing sources like books, journals, articles, websites and other materials written by credible sources to state the factual position relevant to the research. This means that the researcher has to fall on other authorities to find important matters and facts that have been arrived at by other authorities in the field. (Fearon 2005) argues that nations whose economies rely heavily or solely on primary commodity

Surgical Safety and the Highly Reliable Surgical Team Essay

Surgical Safety and the Highly Reliable Surgical Team - Essay Example The main goals are: improve safety of surgical patients undergoing procedures at Kaiser Permanente, Fresno and improvement of surgical safety attitudes of both physicians and OR staff resulting in an environment that will decrease risk to patients undergoing surgical intervention and further maintain a "no never events" record. The purpose of this thesis is to develop alternative methods to ensure 100% compliance with the use of a surgical briefing; exceeding the requirements of Joint Commission's "Universal Protocol" (The Joint Commission , 2009) by OR staff members and physicians utilizing the surgery department at Kaiser Permanente Fresno, California. Although surgical safety is more than a local challenge, only addressing individual behaviors and habits at a local level can raise the threshold to decrease significant surgical mishaps. Kaiser Permanente OR staff and surgeons are comprised of very well seasoned and experienced caregivers. As new concepts come to light, it can be challenging for those individuals to perceive the benefit of incorporating what is viewed as unnecessary, time consuming and laborious steps to prevent errors when they may not have had any personal history of such errors. Kaiser Permanente is a very complex, highly structured healthcare system and as such, has a high degree of formalization within the organization. This is can be seen demonstrated throughout the local, regional, national offices and medical centers. In addition Kaiser Permanente is comprised of three distinct businesses: Kaiser Foundation Hospitals and their subsidiaries (KFH), and the Kaiser Foundation Health Plan (KFHP) which are both n ot for profit corporations. The Permanente Medical Group (TPMG) which consists of eight separate physician groups, is a for profit enterprise. Kaiser Permanente has 37 Medical Centers and 400 medical offices nationally. Northern California is their largest region, which accounts for 20 Medical Centers. Kaiser Permanente Fresno has 5 distinct medical office buildings (MOB) located between Selma and Oakhurst California. The Fresno Medical Center has a complement of 169 licensed beds, 8 surgical suites with an additional 2 labor and delivery suites. The facility provides both inpatient and ambulatory surgical care, which is facilitated by 200 physicians, 500 plus nurses, along with 80 medical support staff, servicing 108,000 members. There is currently a goal to integrate and adopt all regional job descriptions at the local levels. There are national, regional, as well as local policy and procedures covering many

Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Research Paper Example I will the use the comparison to explain the low and slow adoption Rate of Windows 8 in the Enterprise. Ultimately, I will use the benefits of each version to show how they affect perceived usefulness and perceive ease-to-use. The Technology Adoption Model (TAM) refers to an information system, which depicts how users accept and adopt technological innovations. TAM establishes various factors, which determine how and when users will adopt new technology. The named factors include the perceived ease-to-use and the significance of the new technology (Furneaux, 2006). Any new technology should be easy to use and able to enhance performance. In this context, Microsoft 8 should have an operating system that satisfies these factors. However, Microsoft 8 has many failures and has an operating system that has low perceived ease-to-use and little significance. As such, it does not satisfy the TAM factors and hence enterprise will not be considering moving to Windows 8. Indeed, Windows 8 does not meet the needs of Microsoft users. Windows Vista operating system is applicable on personal computers. It entails built-in accessibility settings and programs that enhance its usability in a computer. Indeed, the accessibility settings and programs are ease-of-use features, which enhance hearing and seeing thus enabling users with visual, cognitive, and hearing difficulties to use personal computers (Microsoft, 2013). Additionally, the availability of the Ease of Access Center in Windows Vista promotes the access and use of this version through improving the speech recognition and magnification capabilities (Microsoft, 2013). Additionally, Windows Vista Aero Glass and the updated graphical user interface also improved the usability of Windows Vista. The highlighting within the minimizing, maximizing, and exiting buttons for all applications improved the ease-of-use in this Microsoft version (Microsoft, 2013). As such, Windows Vista has significant change of usability and ease-of -use. However, there are other changes in the user interface, which seemingly make no sense. Overall, the above technological aspects amount to benefits, which improve the perceived usefulness and perceived ease-to-use of Windows Vista. Windows 7 has improved usability and ease-of-use, which depicts through the accessibility options and programs that makes usability easier. It also allows for the personalization of a PC by allowing changes in the PC’s colors, font size, and sounds (Microsoft, 2013). Windows 7 has a magnifier that enlarges item of the screen and an On-Screen Keyboard that makes it easier to use a computer (Microsoft, 2013). Additionally, Windows 7 encompasses innovation of speech recognition and touch technology that equally improves usability. More so, Microsoft users can enjoy speech recognition in Windows 7, which enables them to command and dictate any application in a computer (Micro

E-Learning, the Possibilities of Replacing Traditional Learning Essay

E-Learning, the Possibilities of Replacing Traditional Learning - Essay Example This type of learning is also delivered via multimedia programmes that use text, graphics, video conferencing, and animations to better engage the learner, beneficial for auditory and visual learners as well (Takiya, Archbold & Berge, 2005). Traditional learning generally involves one or more instructors in an environment that promotes physical or auditory interaction with an instructor in the pursuit of knowledge sharing. E-learning, theoretically, provides this same function allowing for students in multiple environments to glean important knowledge using technology as the medium and replacing the physical interactivity between instructor and learner. As technology continues to improve, more and more colleges, businesses and universities are promoting new e-learning possibilities as a means to save on costs and improve the learning process. However, it is unclear as to whether e-learning maintains the same quality outcomes of traditional learning as the research evidence conflicts in relation to results of this type of learning. ... red it a vital tool for staff training, whilst 54 percent already had an e-learning programme in place or were considering developing and launching e-learning in the next year (isoph.com). This is a high volume of real-time environments that believe in the quality and integrity of these systems to achieve their learning goals. One benefit of e-learning is the self-paced functionality of the educational materials. Students or employees who learn via technology rather than in traditional format are able to schedule their own working times so as not to conflict with lifestyle needs. What this produces is more flexibility and also improves the level to which slower learners impede the progress of other students in a typical classroom environment. â€Å"Advanced learners are allowed to speed through or bypass instruction that is redundant while novices slow their own progress through content† (Kruse, 2009, p.1). What this theoretically produces is much less disruption to other stud ents and eliminates frustration with fellow learners (Kruse). In a typical environment, more gifted students often feel this frustration when content and progress is slowed by redundant learning efforts. In the United States, the state of Maine established e-learning in middle schools that reached over 42,000 students and included 5,000 instructors. When surveyed, more than 80 percent of educators believed it created more engaged students who produced higher quality learning outcomes (Intel, 2009). In Malaysia, e-learning programmes measured in 10 primary and secondary schools reported 85 percent of teachers believed it created a more collaborative and innovative learning environment when implemented in the classroom (Intel). According to Lowes (2005) students demand certain criteria when learning

GMO-genetic modified organism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

GMO-genetic modified organism - Essay Example There are organizations that are either supporting or rejecting the labeling of GMOs. Organizations such as the American Medical Association have strictly stood against the labeling of these organisms, while Truth In Labeling Campaign has quite openly supported the labeling of these organisms (Melnick, 2012). GMOs should be labeled because this will help consumers in making rational decision, will lead to increase in production of food that is not manufactured through genetic engineering, will keep consumers away from health issues caused due to consumption of GMOs and will lead to increase in exports. One of the reasons due to which labeling of GMOs is being favored is that labeling of food products that have been created through genetic engineering will assist consumers in making informed choices. Consumers are able to make informed choices when they have information that is perfect in nature. Information is regarded as perfect only if the ingredients used in manufacturing food products are provided to the customers and consumers through labels. If goods are not labeled properly, the consumers will not have the information required to make rational choices (Scatasta, 2007). Those in favor of GMOs’ labeling believe that labeling will not decrease the revenue of farmers in developing areas and will rather lead to increase in business for them and this is because those importing GMOs are not ready to accept food products that are not labeled. Not only developing nations will benefit from labeled GMOs, even developed nations such as the United States that is a huge exporter o f GMOs will even benefit from labeling as labeling will ensure smooth exports of GMOs. In certain regions it has been made obligatory that all the food items as well as the seeds that may be produced through genetic engineering or constitute of certain percentage of GMOs need to be

Critical shopper Article Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Critical shopper - Article Example The staff at the luxury store Louis Vuitton seems to think so; given the quality of some of the merchandise that they have been selling lately. While the above-mentioned damaged goods were the objects of anecdotes, which frustrated customers of Louis Vuitton have shared online, there is always a second side to the story. This is why I judged it necessary to take a trip to one of their stores with the eyes of a critical shopper. The image that a store earns is a product of its goods, its store, and its management. The horror stories of the expensive products turning out to be of poorer quality than expected are nothing short of a revelation with regard to the high price equals high quality formula. However, I believe in giving the other two factors a thorough analysis as well before making any final judgments. Thus, I write this critique with a perspective that encompasses several different aspects of Louis Vuitton. The image this brand sets in the minds is one of class, grace, and be auty. It means to set a high standard in fashion, while proving its appeal to the upper middle class and the elite in specific. Louis Vuitton engineers the atmosphere of its stores to map on precisely to this image. The elegance with which the store is decorated and made sends out an implicit message of higher-level class. One can tell by the look and feel of the place that this brand spends several thousands of dollars to design the palate of the walls and then embellish them with graceful designs and shelves (Louis Vuitton, 2011). Thus, Louis Vuitton succeeds in having a store atmosphere, which is identical to the image they portray of the brand. Another thing that the store apparently invests heavily in is the decoration done throughout the store. This includes the way the different products the store has to offer are arranged throughout the store, and how well their tidiness and order is maintained. These were all posh and strategically maintained, so that the look of the store did not lose its clean and well-maintained charm during any part of the hour which I spent there. One especially striking feature of the store was the manner in which the decorators have arranged the different merchandise on sale. Several of the stores that Louis Vuitton has, do not sell clothes. They specialize in leather goods, which is why their tag line is ‘Epi Leather.’ These goods include wallets, bags and purses, and shoes. Other accessories they sell include sunglasses and jewelry. Even the store window displays the goods in an exquisite manner, which would attract a consumer to enter the store and have a look around. This is one aspect of the store, against which the customers will most likely not have any complaints. It satisfies the image of the store due to which so many people visit and buy from Louis Vuitton. As the ambiance of the store passes inspection, we move on to the second factor, which makes up the true image of the store amongst its customers. Th e store was well equipped with sales assistants so that the sales assistant to customer ratio never got low. There was perhaps a slight arrogant air as to how these assistants greeted their customers (Louis Vuitton, 2010), which is inexcusable unless most of their customers have matching pompous dispositions. They were, however, present nearby the customers throughout the time that the customer was browsing, willingly discharging information about the products available in stock, as well as their location in the vast display throughout the

The Role of Women During World War II Research Paper

The Role of Women During World War II - Research Paper Example However, the high adulation that women have today as the equal of men did not always exist. The Suffragette era saw women fighting to have equal rights and opportunities with their male counterparts. But just like everything else in this world, time and circumstance forced a change in that point of view. When World War II rolled along, the United States government saw shortage in the workforce that has never been equaled since. The only solution to that problem at the time? Hire women to do the job of men. They were the most viable option. They were, the only option. Although the government and the business sector had qualms about hiring women in the workforce, most specially women who were mothers with little children, the existence of huge government contracts in the industrial field of automotive, aviation, and other sectors developed a shortage of workers due to the high volume of men leaving the workforce in order to join the war time efforts of the country. Coupled with the men leaving for war was the fact that the country was gripped by the Great Depression which forced some men out of jobs. With the lessened financial drawing power of the head of the household, most wives and mothers saw it fit to do their part in helping to support their family. So off to work they went. Women became such a huge and integral part of the workforce that the statistics from that era proves that they held important jobs and more than made up for the lack of men in the workforce. Doing jobs that were once reserved only for the brawn of men prior to the changes that wartime brought about (â€Å"Women in World War II†): The entry of married women into the work place caused their percentage of total female employment to grow 28% from 1929 to 1940, particularly women in the 25 to 44 age group increased 13.8%. In total, 50% of the women in the nonagricultural labour force were employed by the clerical and service sectors of the economy, they encompassed the majority of ur ban working-class women. It did not come as a surprise to many that the women who entered the workforce did so successfully during the time. The great sex divide among men and women of the era had the women forcibly relegated to the background, staying at home to tend to the needs of the family. Proir to the war, any woman who was seen as part of the workforce was frowned upon and shunned by men. However, just like all mindsets, the time was ripe for the change in the mindset of the working man when it came to the working woman. The forced expansion in the labor workforce offered the female sector of society a boost in their campaign for equal rights. The government got a boost from the entry of the female workforce who became the backbone of the American economy during the simultanuous battles against Hitler in Europe and Japan in Asia. World War II afforded the women a chance to sieze an opportunity to work in new jobs, learn new skills, and explore new opportunities (â€Å"Partn ers in Winning the War: American Women in World War II†). Although women were truly a â€Å"secret weapon† for the country during the war, the traditionalists in society could not help but worry about what repercussions their serious entry into the workforce would have on the American family dynamic. More specifically, what effect would having a working mother have on the children of the time? Their worry was based on the traditional point of view that saw the women as the beacon of light and guidance in the home without whom its younger members would fall astray. Although there was a small percentage of juvenile delinquency during the time, most of the children of the era knew that there was a battle raging overrseas and their mothers were part of

Film Lost in Translation Movie Review Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Film Lost in Translation - Movie Review Example In fact, the movie clearly traffics in stereotypes, but it does depart from the Hollywood's tradition of Orientalism. However, in the narration film, there is not much complexity as According to several critics, Sofia Coppola’s Oscar-winning film Lost in Translation seems to depict the Japanese culture in an American way and there is essential distortion to several aspects of the modern Japanese culture all through the film. While the vast majority of critics give their thumbs up for this national hit, few critics of essential consideration voice interesting opinions to the contrary and criticize the film’s version of the Japanese culture. Whereas there is no question about the quality of the production, all the controversy concerning the film results from the way the Japanese culture is presented in the film. It is truly a very significant modern illustration of the concept of ‘Orientalism’ which Said held decades before. Thus, the two lead characters of t he movie are criticized as exemplifying the Americans abroad with a sense of superiority and shameless ignorance. There are some important critics of the movie who strongly argue that the movie is racist in some ways and many scenes in the film support such an argument. â€Å"Many of the jokes rely heavily on the stereotypes of Japanese, and seem to parade modern Japanese culture as something ridiculous†¦ Many scenes in the film do support this argument [i.e. the movie as racist]. For instance, Bob and Charlotte make fun of the inability of the Japanese people to distinguish R's and L's. If you consider the situation in reverse, you could perhaps see how offensive this might be to some Another scene at a Japanese restaurant, Bob takes advantage of the fact that the Japanese chef cannot understand English. He not only tells Charlotte to take one of her shoes off, but also yells condescendingly at the chef" (Suematsu). Therefore, one identifies, all through the film, several ins tances of the American way of viewing the Eastern culture, specifically the Japanese culture. Said's notion of 'Orientalism' helps one in understanding the American view of the Japanese culture and supports the important argument that the movie is racist in some ways. The ideas, cultures, and histories of the East are understood or studied in the West through configurations of power and there was an essential Western endeavor through which the Orient was created - or it caused, in the words of Said, the "Orientalized" concepts of the East. "The relationship between Occident and Orient is a relationship of power, of domination, of varying degrees of a complex hegemony" (Said 1978, P. 5). Lost in Translation can be significantly comprehended as making a major

Case for Repositioning a Bank Essay Example for Free

Case for Repositioning a Bank Essay ANZ bank is over 170 years old providing a range of banking and financial products and services to more than 5.7 million retail customers on a global scale (case). . Offering 817 branches and 2600 automated teller machines (ATMs) all over Australia, ANZ is ranked in the top 4 banks in Australia along with Commonwealth Bank of Australia, National Australia Bank Ltd (NAB) and Westpac Banking Corporation. This report will identify the current position of ANZ, and how they are attempting to reposition themselves in the financial services industry. The case highlights the strengths and weaknesses of ANZ and how effective their current marketing strategy is. The strengths of ANZ which have been identified in the case are their highly customised bankcards, their trustworthy image and reputation, knowledgeable staff and the size of the firm. ANZ’s weaknesses are that their products are quite easy to imitate due to such intangibility, they are at the bottom compared to their competitors, the communication gap occurring through the reposition of their new brand and the inflexibility due to the large structure of the bank. This paper will explore two of ANZ’s main strategic issues which are the communication gap of through the repositioning and rebranding as well as ANZ’s competition in the financial industry. Key Strategic Marketing Issues The banking industry is very well established and has a limited selection of different products. Due to few substitute products, firms in the industry will find it hard to differentiate themselves from their competitors. Chenet, Dagger, OSullivan (2010) state that, differentiation is important because firms uniqueness is linked to target market focus, client-perceived value and competitive advantage. In result of ANZ’s lack of communicating their service quality, limited product diversity and lack of unadaptable strategies they are ranked number four of the top four banks. ANZ needs to address the amount of ATMs it has throughout the country. Compared to its major competitors, ANZ is one of the banks with the least amount of ATMs available to its customers with almost half the amount of ATMs compared to NAB. Theory ANZ is rebranding and repositioning itself it the market to appear more appealing to customers. They are moving from an  outdated brand and position of ‘ANZ Now’ to a new brand identity and positioning strategy of ‘We live in your world’ implying a modern and fresh new feel to the company. Throughout the rebranding and repositioning process, ANZ is using a customer-led marketing approach by trying to find what customers want and giving it to them (Hooley, Piercy Nicoulaud, 2012). However, ANZ is a very large firm which affects rebranding, creating a gap in the communication between the firm and their consumers. The slogan ‘We live in your world’ has been adapted to try and differentiate ANZ from its competitors in terms of customer satisfaction; however it has not been aimed consistently across all ANZ’s communication activities. This has resulted in confusion of the customers as well as a lack of awareness of ANZ’s message. Mayer (1975) found that larger firms can generally find it harder than a smaller firm to implement change across the whole organisation effectively and efficiently. Resources and Capabilities A resource is anything that is considered to be thought of as a strength or weakness of a firm and may be defined as those tangible and intangible assets that are tied to the firm (Wernerfelt, 1984). ANZ’s resources include the products they offer, size of the firm, the knowledgeable staff and the strong trust with their customers. ANZ seeks to â€Å"attract and develop the best connected and most respected people to be a part of the ANZ team† (ANZ, 2014). Having knowledgeable and highly skilled staff allows for a financial institution to create superior returns, thus a competitive advantage (lulow, V., Gerstman, J., Barry, C. 2003). The size of ANZ allows ease of access to funds which will appeal to their customers through providing loans, insurance, small business and corporate. Having a strong brand image and a good reputation, ANZ have had the opportunity to build trust with their customers. The large size of a firm can be a strength; however in turn can be a weakness. Mayer, T. (1975) identified that large banks have the potential to fail if customer service is overlooked. Due to the large amount of customers ANZ has, there is the possibility that relationships with customers may diminish. Furthermore, due to the large size of the firm ANZ may appear as inflexible and changes within the organisation may take a long time, such as the current repositioning of the firm. Creating confusing amongst consumers as the message is not being communicated effectively  across all of ANZ. Competitive Advantage ANZs major competitive advantage over their main competitors is this highly customised bankcards they currently offer to their customers. ANZ have used a customer-led marketing approach with their bankcards, as this approach finds what customers want, and give it to them (Hooley, Piercy Nicoulaud, 2012). This fits in well with their brand image they are trying to communicate; ‘We live in your world’. Rather than just providing bank cards to their customers as the other major banks do ANZ customises their cards allowing their customers to choose what colour card they want and further using their own pictures on their bank cards. This is giving the customers the chance to create their own products. These customised bank cards have given ANZ a first mover advantage allowing them to enjoy the protection of a resource position barrier (Wernerfelt, 1984). However, Barney (1991) states that to have a ‘sustained competitive advantage’ competitors are unable to duplicate the benefits of this strategy. The customised bank cards may not last that long as a major competitive advantage due to other firms being able to easily imitate what ANZ have done. Strategic Fit Skinner (1969) suggested that for a firm to strategically fit, they need to tailor their production systems to perform the tasks that are vital to success and consistent with the firm’s strategy. The current marketing strategy of ‘We live in your world’ is ANZs new an innovative fresh outlook on branding for the organisation. The strategic planning and strategic marketing of this strategy must penetrate the whole market orientation not just small sections (Hooley, Piercy Nicoolaud, 2012). This current strategy although isn’t fitting with the needs and requirements of the market. The failure of communication between ANZs resources and capabilities is causing the new strategy to not be implemented properly to its audience (Narver Slater, 1990). The strategy adapted isn’t connecting with their customers their desired outlook of what they wish to be perceived as. ANZ wants their consumers to focus on them being ‘trustworthy’ and ‘traditional’ but as of now they aren’t practicing what they preach. This is shown with customers feeling confused and unaware of the new adapted strategy. As  Hooley, Piercy Nicoolaud (2012) have found the marketing strategy needs to be aligned with the overall the relevant resources, capabilities so direction can be achieved and then the overall context of corporate strategy will be accomplished. Recommendation To ensure the repositioning of ANZ is effective, they need to communicate to their consumers more effectively. Rust, Moorman, and Dickson, (2002) found that â€Å"customers differentiate between service firms on the basis of service quality†. Therefore, ANZ need to offer superior customer service through the use of their highly skilled and knowledgeable staff. The best way for ANZ to differentiate their selves is through superior quality. Farrell, Hitchens, Moffat (1993) found that, superior quality is an effective management strategy as it helps separate firms from competitive rivalry by creating customer loyalty.

Hospitality Supervision And Training Skills

Hospitality Supervision And Training Skills After reading the case study of the hotel one can easily find out what are the strength and weakness of the hotel. Some of the strength are that the hotel is situated in center of the city. The hotel is 3 star properties. Which is manly focusing on the business clients? Even though the hotel is situated at the center of the city, the hotel is struggling to maintain the profit margin. From the last few years Because of the 3 new hotel which maintain the national or international standard, opened near by the hotel, that way the courthouse hotel is not able to make profit. The standard of food and service of courthouse hotel is relatively lower than the other hotels. The hotel capacity is 150 bedrooms, a bar, and a carver style restaurant and a room in which marriage and business conferences are held. Some of the weakness of the hotel is, there is no banquet facility, no room service. In this way the hotel lack some of the newer property near by. Most of the people who are employees in the courthouse hotel are on full time or permanent contract, leaving few senior manager and night workers. The staff of the hotel works in to shift either early or late shift. The hotel need staff only a weekend in the month due to the business executive staying there in weekend. 3 month before a business tycoon bought this hotel and his planning to up grade the hotel to a four star properties, giving good services to clients. For upgrading the hotel his planning to make a a-la-carte restaurant, new banquet in the hotel, staffing should be improved. And hotel needs good skills employees. The employees need a good communication skills and coordination of staff is also need. There is a opening of a new convention center is walking distance of the hotels, there will be a trade increase of 60% which is expected so the courthouse hotel standard are to be rise. And also now the hotel will be in the hands of German chancellor, so every world leader having the meeting with the German chancellor for this the hotel should improve the standard of service. 2. STAFFING ISSUES The staff should be change or hotel should hire new employees because the present employees or not accustomed to four star grading needs and requirements and it may be possible that staff may not like this type off behavior fro the management the hotel should appoint new staff because new people work a bit more harder than the older staff. In case of the curt house hotel needs to look after on the major issues of Staffing. It will take care by the upper management of the organization. Management need to looks after on the budget and the staff problems occurring in the middle, when the management planning for the next year summer objective to change hotel from 3 star to 4star property. Its not easy job, they need to organize the training and development programs for the employees. Management needs to hire employees from internal and external source of recruitment. The main thing in this training and development programs the employees need to concentrate on the training so that they can put an effort for the future goals and objectives. Management need to look after on the budget what they are spending on the training and development programs so that they get a better outcome for an organization. The hospitality industry is highly, influenced by the human labour starting right from chefs, to the servers, bartenders, dishwashers, front office personnel or room attendants. (Supervision in the Hospitality Industry, by Miller, Walker Drummond pg-5) It all depends on the employees to bring in guests or loose business. Talking about the case study The Courthouse, a 3 Star hotel has certain drawbacks issue, which the new owner would face while its up gradation. The staffing issues in the months to come, which the hotel will face are as follows (Case study-the Courthouse Hotel): 2.1 Unskilled Staff: According to the author, the hotel up gradation would result in the increase in the profit of the hotel as the city is opening a new convention center, in the upcoming months. The Courthouse would be allotted to the German Delegates who are very particular about the services. The hotel staff though are good experience holders but is unaware of the standards of services to be given in a 4star categorized hotel. The current staff being unskilled unaware of the techniques procedures to be followed in the Courthouse Hotel is an issue that would worry the management. 2.2 Variation in the Shift Timings: The employees of the hotel are not aware of the actual shift timings that is followed in any property, this is a big drawback for the hotel. The introduction to the varied shifts i.e., morning, afternoon, evening, break night shifts would create a chaos amongst the employees which might further lead to staff turnover. Not only this might the staff being used to its own ideologies might not agree to accept the new changes implemented in their working hours. Working only for one weekend out of 4 can again be a point of discussion. 2.3 Improvement in the Standard: With the up gradation of the star categorization of the Courthouse Hotel, the improvement in standard of the services facilities is an important issue in regards to the up-market of 3-star categorized hotel to 4-star standard. The hotel needs to set up certain Standard Operating Principles about which the staff needs to be trained properly. From the case study the author has already mentioned about the maximum percentage of staff being permanent, hence they have been following their own ways of performing their job they may not encourage new changes in their work culture methods. 2.4 Sacking of Employees: According to the case study, maximum staff is employed on a fulltime basis in permanent contract, which suggest that most of the employees are experienced in this situation the sacking of such staff members would be absurd. In the stage of up gradation of the star- categorization of the property sacking of experienced employees hiring of new employees would increase the financial burden on the management, as the new skilled would be required to be paid more. 3 PLAN OF ACTION The new hotel owner should go through the following plans in practice to get the targeted goal of the organization. Customer services / satisfaction Training given to staff Leadership quality Interpersonal skills of staff 3.1 CUSTOMER SERVICES/SATISFACTION:- Business comprises of a sole meaning of how much effort and the measure the company has to make in order to meet the demands of the customer. It is considered to be as one of the key performance indicator within the business. In todays competition intensive market customer satisfaction plays a vital role in providing information about how much effort is being put and how much more is required, that is the sole big reason why it is becoming an increasingly important factor in Business strategy making. This factor is considered to be an abstract concept because the level of satisfaction varies from person to person and between product and services. It also puts a psychological effect on the process and this makes a link with satisfaction behaviors such as return and proposed rates and expectations. A customer has its own factors on which it decides upon which to choose and which not to chouse he can compare the other product with the company product. Customer satisfaction usually is measured with a set of survey measures records by using a scale or Likert technique. Customer is invited to evaluate each and every statements in terms of their own observation and expectations from the use of that product being measured. LEADERSHIP QUALITY:- Transformational leaders always make a strong vision amongst the employees and set examples of a good judgment of mission and strong hospitality organization. Transformational leadership has always been of a vital importance in todays hard fought customer market of hotels where flexibility, determination, willingness to change and modernize are key factors of an organizational success. The work, which is earlier done on leadership, has extracted distinction, transactional and transformational leadership. (Burns, 1978) STAFF TRAINING:- This is an important tool in succession planning, it is used to find suitable individuals for hiring and promotions. It can also be defined as a formal tool in which plans are developed to ensure that replacements can be successfully and gladly be filled with efficient individuals. Succession planning helps continue the pursuit of strategic goals an missions in a relatively competitive way so as to be there in the market place and compete with the rival companies at par. This is always maintained by the training and development staff. 3.4 INTERPERSONAL SKILL OF STAFF:-the employees should trytalk to the peoplethis is the interpersonal skill of a employees. Interpersonal skill can be told as the way of communication in a better way, to meet that standard. Communication helps to reduce theclashes between the employees and the managers in this way the motive can be achived. The person who is having good interpersonal skills can handle difficult situtation in a better way. 4 CHANGE MANAGEMENT Change can be negative or positive in any organization in courthouse hotel staff can it as in a positive way or can put it in a negative way. The mindset of the staff can make them to resist for change or also it can be possible if they like the change they can also welcome it and adopt it as new step to development. The reason for the resistance can be as follows. Freedom- there might be thinking amongst the staff whether they will be under a boss who can resist their freedom to work. Responsibility their responsibility can be divided between the new staff. And their task can be reduced. Authority their position can be lost and power can be shared between others Work condition there work condition can be changed and they have to work under different condition which can further demotivated their moral. Status their responsibility can be reduced. As the management will be hiring more staff so this will be a thread for others staff whether their job title will be same or they have to change. It can be above the level or below the level. There is also a reason amongst other the staffs what the matter with the way the things are now? typically any change in courthouse hotel can be beneficial and management will not face much problems while implicating these changes. Resistance to change can also make staff to go against the management. Management also will have to look the staff members who are welcoming the change and how to sustain them by motivation. If the existing staff is resisting to change this amplifies that they dont have knowledge and trust on the organization and also may be because of lack of understanding about the change. If the staffs doesnt understand the reason for change they makes a distrust over the organization. This distrust can also make others positive staff to go behind the distrust. With the change of standards in courthouse hotel the technology will be upgrading and this will be a main concern between the staffs how to match the standards. A very difficult situation will be there between the staffs is they fail to grab the standards. And this creates a resistance amongst the staffs. Three 3 key elements of Kirkpatricks model for change management. 4.1 Empathy-: (Kirkpatrick, 2001), According to Kirkpatrick manager should put himself in the place of employee, which is, best way to realize the employees feeling. Managers should also refer to the doubts of the employees that they might have in their minds so that they might not resist the change process. . There are some steps by which a manager can know about the employees, first step is looking personal files, second step is asking questions from the employee and the next and last step is listening and observing. According to Robert Bacall empathy is walking in other person shoes. Thus by implying empathy in the courthouse hotel the managers should get to know the problems of the individual employees. 4.2 Communication-: Robert Bacall states that communication is a 2 way method and in this method the hotel management has to communicate the desired wants and new management policies to the hotel staff. In communication after giving instructions the management has to even look for the feedback from the employees. So that the barriers for communication can be over ridden. 4.3 Participation-: (Coch et al, 1948), states that participation is the major step. Participation is the change tends to reduce resistance build on the change and motive people to make the change to work. Kirkpatrick, (2007), states that Participation is technique for use in conducting instructional meetings. The participation has its two basic approached first one is which one is most common form is to have discussion among the participation without any hesitation and leaders gives questions and problems to entire group. Employers answer it to the leader. Second approach is that group is divided into buzz group of 4 or 5 people so that each employee can participate actively. Thus it is suggested that by implying participation the employs tend to feel better and favour the change rather than resisting it. CONCLUSION: After reading the whole study of the courthouse hotel. We get to know the hotel is facing loss in the business through this we get to what are the staffing issues in the hotel. The hotel employees may to react to the change in a favorable point of view. Because they may not like the change due to lack of coronation between the employees. If the employees and the managers are not coordinating in proper way An organization cannot be run in a good way. If the worker are not skilled enough to do there job. Then there will be issues in the organization. Change management can manage staffing issues. In the case study element of change management shows how the empathy, participation, and communication may help in handling the changes in a proper way. The hotels new owner is transforming the hotel to a four star property. and he is trying to make changes in the hotel which favorable for both the organization and the employees working there. If the organization follow the element of the change management goals can be achieved in a much easer way working with the employees and manager.

Benefits And Difficulties of Enterprise Wide Information System Implementation

Benefits And Difficulties of Enterprise Wide Information System Implementation Introduction Faced with mounting global competition, companies have to improve how they coordinate activity across the company so as to maximise the value they deliver to customers and minimize costs. Competitive pressures have forced the companies to consider various performance objectives such as flexibility, reliability, responsiveness, customer satisfaction etc. ERP can be defined â€Å"as an integrated, multi-dimensional system for all functions, based on a business model for planning, control, and global (resource) optimisation of the entire supply chain, by using state if the art IS/IT technology that supplies value added services to all internal and external parties† (Jarrar, et al., 2000). Despite the fact ERP have been successfully implemented in the past, careful planning and execution becomes very important factors given their size and complexity. Much has been written about the success of enterprise information systems. But, this success depends on several critical success factors (CSF). The most common critical success factors that are identified in the academic literature are discussed below (Bhatti, 2005). 1. Project Management Project Management involves the use of skills and knowledge used to coordinate, schedule the defined activities so that the stated objectives of implementation projects are achieved (Bhatti, 2005). A phase wise planning of the project with effective project management skills will definitely help in overcoming such a situation (Soliman Youssef, 1998). 2. Business Process Reengineering It is defined as â€Å"the altering the business process through redesigning so as to achieve dramatic improvements in cost, quality, service and speed† (Bhatti, 2005). The success of ERP system implementation is characterised by changing the present business processes in accordance to the standards of best business process available (Gibson, et al., 1999). Examination of many business processes is considered as the key for the implementation of ERP system. 3. User training and education Lack of proper technically competent staff leads to the failure of many ERP implementation projects. The training program of ERP implementation include aspects like the concepts behind ERP, the wide range of features and implications of ERP system, and hands on training (Bhatti, 2005). Therefore training the employees plays a major role in successfully implementing the ERP projects. 4. Technological infrastructure ERP implementation involves a complex transition from legacy information systems to a common business process throughout the organization (Bhatti, 2005). Therefore choosing the right ERP package based on the size of the firm is very essential. It is very important that the hardware configurations that should be used to run the ERP system are certified by the vendor of ERP (Bhatti, 2005). This in turn is based on the choice of the company. 5. Change management Bhatti, (2005) emphasizes on this aspect and says that â€Å"in order to implement ERP systems successfully, the way organizations do business will need to change and ways people do their jobs will need to change as well†. Change Management is the very essential for success of implementation project and it is necessary that it starts in the early stages and continues throughout the entire project life cycle (Bhatti, 2005). 6. Management of Risk Handling unexpected crises and ensuring that the project does not deviate from the initial plan is risk management (Bhatti, 2005). There is always a possibility that ERP project might deviate from the main objective which can possibly lead to unexpected events. Therefore, an appropriate risk management strategy helps in considerably reducing the risks of project failure. 7. Top Management Support Management must be a part of ERP implementations and it is true mainly with software projects and their success mainly depends on top management support [Bhatti, 2005]. â€Å"Only the top management is equipped to act as the mediator between the imperatives of the technology and the imperatives of the business† (Bhatti, 2005). Every step of the implementation process demands the top managements involvement to provide a direction for the project and to ensure that the project is successful which can be very challenging at times (Bhatti, 2005). 8. Effective Communication Communication, â€Å"one of most essential and difficult tasks in any ERP implementation project provides the base for understanding and sharing information between the members of the project team and helps in communicating the goals in each implementation stage to the entire organisation† (Bhatti, 2005). Hence; continuous communication flow should be maintained throughout all the departments at a very early stage. 9. Team work and composition Since an ERP involves all the departments in an organisation, it is very essential for these departments to work together. â€Å"An ERP implementation team comprises of, functional personnel and management, IT personnel and management, top management, IT consultants, ERP vendor , parent company employees, management consultants, hardware vendor† (Bhatti, 2005). A mix of hired consultants with companys internal staff is essential in an ERP team so that the necessary technical skills required for the design and implementation can be developed by the internal staff (Bhatti, 2005). 10. User Involvement User involvement is a very important aspect as the functions of an ERP system are designed as per the users requirement. When a company decides to implement an ERP system, â€Å"user involvement is required at the stage of definition of the companys ERP system needs and also during the implementation of the ERP system† (Bhatti, 2005). 11. Use of consultants There is a possibility that the company might lack the experts who have sound knowledge about the software. Hence the use of external consultants is very much required who can help the internal staff in installing the software. â€Å"These consultants may be involved in different stages of the ERP project implementation† (Bhatti, 2005). 12. Goals and Objectives The goals, expectations, and deliverables should be clearly defined so to address the questions regarding the need for the implementation of the ERP system and the critical business the system would cater (Bhatti, 2005). In this essay a case study based approach is used in order to discuss the benefits that companies have reaped by the use of enterprise wide information systems and also the difficulties that may arise in respect to the introduction and implementation of such systems. Case study 1 discusses the benefits of the enterprise wide information system. At the same time Case study 2 throws a light on the difficulties faced by the companies in respect to the introduction and implementation of such systems. Case study: 1- Case study of Pratt and Whitney Canada (Tchokogue, A., Bareilb, C., Claude, R. D., 2005) Scope of the project: The main objective of implementing an ERP system at PWC was to establish an ent erprise wide information system (TES) such that its customers have a greater transparency and agility (Tchokogue, et al., 2005). The management wanted this information system in place as they were interested in increasing inventory turnover, reduce work in progress, improve on customer response time and increase inventory and operation cost visibility (Tchokogue, et al., 2005). Hence they decided that SAP/R3 was optimal after considering the main enterprise systems such as Oracle, BAAN, SAP, etc. (Tchokogue, et al., 2005) Highlights of TES implementation: The project was unevenly divided into 5 major phases over the duration of 32 months. Scoping and planning Determining the level of previous reengineering Process redesign Configuration Testing and delivery The early stages (phases 1 and 2) of implementation took approximately 10 months. During this phase emphasis was â€Å"on defining the scope of activities and planning their implementation† ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005). Strategic objectives and requirements of PWC customers were taken into consideration while the existing processes were accessed in order to focus on those which needed improvement in line with the targets set ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005). The middle stages (phase 3 and phase 4) which took 17 months of implementation mainly focussed on redesigning the processes where attempts to minimize re- engineering of processes were made ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005). Moreover during the phase 4; â€Å"the configuration of the new system i.e. the main parameters of each SAP module and that the choice of parameter options related to the new system was determined† ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005). Care was taken to choose the right configuration based on the companies requirements. Risk management was effectively handled to prevent the uncertainties that prevail during the implementation stages to ensure that there was no deviation from the main goals and objectives. The top executives constantly monitored the progress of the implementation process and helped giving the project a proper direction. The project teams â€Å"followed the Deloitte Touche Consulting Group- ICS FastTrack 4 SAP methodology† ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005) for the implementation of TES. â€Å"In this methodology five key factors were considered throughout the project: Project Management, Technology Architecture, Process and Systems Integrity, Change Management, and Knowledge Transfer† ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005). The last stage (phase 5) â€Å"included three integration test cycles: An initial cycle related to master file data, a second to static data and a third to dynamic data. The successful test results were then formally accepted by the process managers† ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005). An impressive project team of 345 employees from the most important departments of the company were divided into seven groups and were included in the project which ensured that contributions were made from all the departments directly affecting the new system ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005). This enabled the project to have an effective knowledge transfer and expertise ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005). â€Å"Approximately 110 employees from the six most affected departments were trained to become internal trainers† ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005). The involvement of both the internal and external consultants with effective communication between the departments and training processes proved extremely beneficial for the implementation process ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005) Results: After its implementation the inventory turnover rate remained stable ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005) . An increase in the inventory costs was very visible ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005) . The TES established an information backbone supporting the ongoing business processes and change ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005) . TES increased the productivity by 11% more than what was anticipated ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005) . It reduced the receivable days outstanding by 6% ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005) . 30-40% return on investment was achieved ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005) . The TES gave the organization access to real time information ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005) . This provided fruitful for inventory management and purchasing. The production start delays were reduced drastically ( Tchokogue, et al., 2005) . REASONS FOR ERP PROJECT FAILURES: â€Å"Poor technical methods are only one of the causes, and this cause is relatively minor in comparison to larger issues, such as failures in communications and ineffective leadership† ( Sumner, 1999) . Table 1 summarises the possible reasons for project failures. The Company Increasing the efficiency was the main objective behind starting the Delta III project which took 18 months for completion ( Scott, 1999) . â€Å"Along with SAP/R3, FoxMeyer also purchased warehouse-automation from a vendor called Pinnacle, and chose Andersen Consulting to integrate and implement the two systems† ( Scott, 1999) . Delta III was at risk for several reasons: The warehouse employees sensed that their jobs would be under threat if the warehouse automation software was integrated with SAP/R3 ( Scott, 1999) . This posed a huge threat for the implementation of SAP despite the support from top management as the warehouse employees opposed its implementation ( Scott, 1999) . The rise in the number of R/3 transactions to be processed after the start of the project put the scope of the project at great risk ( Scott, 1999) . This increased burden on the system is mainly because â€Å"FoxMeyer signed a large contract to supply University Health System Consortium (UHC)† ( Scott, 1999) . Another risk faced by FoxMeyer in the implementation process of SAP/R3 is the lack of skilled workers ( Scott, 1999) . â€Å"This forced the management of FoxMeyer to rely on Andersen Consulting which proved to be a greater risk as the external consultants were also inexperienced† ( Scott, 1999) . Lessons Achieved FoxMeyer failed to gauge the risks involved in adopting SAP/R3 in the early stages of the implementation and ended up sharing the risks with the external consultant Andersen Consulting ( Scott, 1999) . It ended up sharing the losses as they did not have any contract which strongly stated that only experienced consultants were t be used ( Scott, 1999). No attempts were made in training the in house workers which ended up in relying heavily on external consultants who hampered the knowledge transfer process within the company ( Scott, 1999). The management allowed the project to divert from its scope regularly which in-turn affected the change management process at the later phases of implementation ( Scott, 1999). Discussion and Conclusion: The two above mentioned case studies are representations of successful implementation of SAP R/3 ERP system in one company and a failure in implementation which caused huge losses in the other company. In the first case the success of the implementation process is mainly due to the constant and shared effort of all the parties involved with the project. Several factors such as their capacity to accept change, detailed planning, adequate financial resources and time frames contributed to the organisational transformation of PWC.

Online Communities Essay -- Exploratory Essays Research Papers

Online Communities A community, according to The Living Webster Encyclopedic Dictionary of the English Language, is â€Å"a number of persons having common ties or interests and living in the same locality.† Apart from the local sense of community, a person can form a community with his or her co-workers, classmates or even a group of people with common interests. This unity is formed due to the subjects that link all of them together – those who work together, study together and have the same common interests. The size of these types of communities pale in comparison to the ones established online. Online communities include chat rooms, instant messenger services and discussion boards (also known as forums). What sets these forms of communication apart from e-mail is that users are free to interact in real time, where the communication occurs without any type of delay. What makes these online communities a lot more appealing, than the ones that are set in the â€Å"real world†, is the anonymity that the internet offers. Thanks to the anonymity, users are able to community without restraint in forums where they can be entertained, educated and most importantly find a sense of belonging. Online communities work well for several key reasons, the first being that it isn’t necessarily discriminatory due to its level of anonymity. Another reason is that it is more accessible for person with handicaps, such as the wheelchair bound or the hearing impaired. Distance is also important; instead of going across town to discuss the latest book of the month, readers with access to the web can meet online much more easily and more often. Another reason why online communities may be working so well is because people may feel less intimidated sinc... ...n. â€Å"Word of a Free Concert, Next to an Oft-Sold Bridge, Spreads Quickly.† The New York Times. 2004. 23 Nov. 2004. Prabhupada, A.C. Bhakitvedanta Swami. Bhagavad-Gita: As It Is. Los Angeles: Bhakitvedanta Book Trust, 1972. Various Authors. DAFF – The Dark Angel Fan Fiction Archive. The Archivists 2000. 23 Nov. 2004. Various Authors. Fan Forum – The O.C. Jelsoft Enterprises, 1998-2004. 23 Nov. 2004. Various Authors. Interference.com – U2 Feedback (U2 Fans, ‘Zine and More). Jelsoft Enterprises, 2000, 2001. 23 Nov. 2004. Weinberger, David. Small Pieces Loosely Joined: A Unified Theory of the Web. Cambridge: Perseus Publishing, 2003. 95-97.

things change Essay -- essays research papers

The book Things Fall Apart, by Chinua Achebe tells the story about a native living in Africa during the period of European imperialism. By placing the book during this time period Achebe can first explain traditional Ibo culture and then talk about the effect that the white European evangelists had on Ibo society. The book dispels the commonly held view of Africans before colonization as savage and godless beings. Achebe explains the very advanced social order in Umuofia and the complex Ibo religion. In bringing together what I have learned about Europe and Africa during the time of Imperialism I will draw a comparison between the two continents politically, religiously, and economically. Europe was ruled by a set of very powerful and competing monarchs during the time of imperialism. In these monarchies a king and queen had supreme power over their countries. In Umuofia there was a democratic system of government with no one ruler and a complex system by which people could gain political power through economic success. I think it is very ironic that when the white missionaries came they lectured the natives on how everyone was equal in the eyes of God, but yet they had supreme rulers in their own countries and a very unfair social caste system. Contrary to popular belief the Africans had a very complex religion before Christianity came. Everyone in the community was extremely religious, even obeying their religious leaders when they were told to kill their own children ...

Kosinskis Being There and the Existential Anti-Hero Essay -- Being Th

Kosinski's Being There and the Existential Anti-Hero      Ã‚   Critics have referred to Kosinski's Being There as his worst novel.   Perhaps, Kosinski's prosaic style is deceptive in its apparent simplicity (especially when contrasted with The Painted Bird).   "What Kosinski seeks to do," as Welch D. Everman relates, "is to stimulate the reader's recreative and imaginative task by offering only the essentials...Kosinski's style draws the reader into the incident by refusing to allow him to remain passive" (25).   This essay will propose that Being There is a major existential work following in the tradition of Sartre and Camus in which Chance, the main protagonist, mirrors Camus's Mersault in A Happy Death and in which Koskinski demonstrates the logical progression of the existential anti-hero.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   An initial response to Being There often might be to focus upon the text as a type of Creation anecdote, or as a social satire, or perhaps as a political critique against mass media and the television generation.   While all of these readings are legitimate, it seems that the starting point should center on Kosinski's protagonist, Chance, in order to understand the universal significance of the portrayal of Chance, and implicitly the reader, as victim.   Chance is a contemporary innocent.   Whether, as is often argued, he is mentally challenged or not is irrelevant.   Rather, Chance simply exists.   He watches television, is unable or unwilling to function within prescribed cultural paradigms, and finally, is simply a mirror, reflecting back to others sublimated images of desires projected onto him.      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Chance is the American Everyman.   The events which befall him could befall anyone.   He, like all of us, ha... ...en, David.   Camus.   Philadelphia: Temple UP, 1988.    Works Consulted Bruss, Paul.   Victims.   Lewisburg: Bucknell UP, 1981. Camus, Albert.   The Stranger.   New York: Vintage, 1946. Granofsky, Ronald.   "Circle and Line: Modern and Postmodern Constructs of the Self in Jerzy Kosinski's The Painted Bird."   Essays in Literature 18.2 (1991): 254-68. Griffiths, Gareth.   "Being there, being There: Postmodernism and Post-Colonialism: Kosinski and Malouf."   Ariel 20.4 (1989): 132-48. Grigbsy, John L.   "Mirroring of America and Russia: Reflections of Tolstoy in Jerzy Kosinski's Being There."   Notes on Contemporary Literature 17.4 (1987): 6-8. Kosinski, Jerzy.   The Painted Bird.   New York: Bantam, 1978. Lavers, Norman.   Jerzy Kosinski.   Boston: Twayne, 1982. Piwinski, David J.   "Kosinski's The Painted Bird."   The Explicator 40.1 (1981): 62-3.

Laughter Therapy Essay

â€Å"Laughter is the best medicine!† We’ve all heard that before, but is it true? Studies show 20-25 minutes of laughter every day is healthy for the body. Laughing also helps with depression, cancer patients, making our hearts healthy. It also strengthens our immune systems, relieves stress, helps us look younger and so much more. Laughing Therapy relates to positive thinking. Most diseases are related to stress, tension depression. When we have tension, we start various problems in our body such as; high blood pressure, heart troubles, lowers our immune systems, etc. Laughing helps relaxes our muscles and helps in relieving stress. Muscular tension is released when you laugh. Your digestion is better. It helps heart rate and helps blood flow. The blood vessels carrying blood in our body expands which results in increased blood supply to various body parts. When we laugh, our mind stops the thought process, we don’t think of anything, keeping our stress at lowest possible level. Laughter also helps in keeping the level of stress hormones low. Laughing also helps in fighting against mental stress, anxiety, depression, insomnia and various other mental disorders. This reduces our dependencies up on various medications required to stay away from the illness. People who try laughter therapy say they feel much better, tension-free, mentally balanced and they sleep better than before. By laughing, it improves our immune system. As I stated above, the base of laughter therapy relates to positive thinking. It is proved scientifically that if a person has negative thoughts while he/she is sick or prey to depression or anger about his/her illness, then it results in weakening of his/her immune system and then it takes more high doses of medications to cure that person. At the other end, positive thinking helps a person improve his/her immune system and become healthy again as soon as possible. Laughter therapy helps in removing negative thoughts from our mind and not letting our immune system go down any further. â€Å"According to one research, laughter helps in increasing the number of Natural Killer cells, antibodies levels in our body which fight against diseases that attack us, improving our immune system many folds.† This has proved very helpful in fighting against some deadly diseases such as cancers, AIDS, some mental disorder. The treatment of which requires patient to have a strong immune system. It also helps you feel and look younger by exercising your facial muscles. Laughter provides support in curing some chronicle and hereditary diseases, asthma, obesity problems, addictions of various types by improving conditions of patients such by strengthening immune system, blocking negative thoughts, arresting anger and similar mental conditions. People who cannot exercise because of their physical condition, have found laughter to be very beneficial. Steve Wilson started the Laughter Therapy in 1964. He was a psychologist at the Ohio Reformatory for Women. Wilson was asked to teach his practices in other states and it became a hit! He went from Ohio across to California and he made it to India. In India, he met Dr. K in 1998, who was also a Laughter Therapists. The teachers’ in India who believes in the laughing therapy was completely different from the East side of the world. The East side thought it would just a study to go into for school and to help relieve stress. The West believed it healed the ill ones. With the influence of the India teachers and his colleagues from the East, Wilson decided to start his World Laughter Tour so the methods of the East and the West could be shown to the whole world. There are classes taught everywhere here in Utah. Most are called Laughter Yoga Classes. The Laughter Yoga Classes is learning the unconditional laughter with yogic breathing, also known as Pranayama. You will learn how to just laugh, without even hearing a joke, seeing something funny, or even thinking. Laughter Yoga is non-political, non-religious, non-racial, non-threatening, and non-competitive. It also teaches you to just take a breather and stay positive no matter what situation you are in. â€Å"Laughter Yoga combines laughter with yogic breathing exercises. It is a perfect way to laugh and get exercise at the same time. It approaches laughter as a body exercise so it’s easy to laugh even if you’re depressed or in a bad mood. I’ve tried it, and it works.† – Oprah Winfrey Laughing for about 20-25 minutes a day can make you feel fresh for the rest of the day. Not only does it make you feel fresh but also it helps keep you healthy. Laughing will help keep your blood levels downs, help the blood flow smoothly, relaxes your muscles, and help cure diseases. You will learn how to relax and think positive. Laughter Therapy is known all over the world. However, I have just found out about this. Classes are taught all over Utah. Take a class and get the feel of what Laughter Therapy can do to you. And remember, â€Å"Laughter is the best medicine!† Works Cited: 1. http://www.worldlaughtertour.com/sections/about/history.asp †¢ CeraNet, Inc. World Laughter Tour, Inc. – History  ©2011 †¢ Used September 24, 2011 2. http://www.laughteryoga.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=731:laughter-yoga-as-laughter-therapy&catid=263:laughter-yoga-for-healing-therapeutic-benefits&Itemid=457 †¢ Laughter Yoga International, Dr. Kataria – Last updated September 10, 2011 †¢ Used September 24, 2011 3. http://www.laughteryoga.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=180:what-is-laughter-yoga&catid=85:about-laughter-yoga&Itemid=265

In close analysis of Nick’s character discuss whether he is Offreds saviour or her down fall

Offred changes people names to hide their true identity for many people like Luke she uses bible names, Mathas are another example of this. However, there is one exception to this and that is Nick, which is another name for the devil. Due to the new Gilead system Offred has lost Luke who was a huge part of her life. She had no one to talk to she felt isolated her only need that was being fulfilled was sex but without touching â€Å"nobody dies from lack of sex its lack of love we die from.† Then all of a sudden her knight in shinning armour came into her life and changed everything round her he released her. He is the romantic element and the human factor that she can relate to the stuff that all good fairy tales are made from. Nick is the driver for the commander and lives in a room above the garage by himself. He has a French face, lean with all the angles and â€Å"creases around his mouth where he smiles.† He dresses in dark clothes so if she wants to fantasise about him she can, tall, dark and handsome. Nick is mysterious to us at first as we did not know if he an eye or not he wears the uniform of the Guardians but his â€Å"cap is tilted at a jaunty angle and his sleeves are rolled to the elbow.† This suggests that he is rebellious and likes defying the system â€Å"he has a cigarette stuck in the corner of his mouth.† He does not fit into the Gilead system and is a dangerous character to Offred due to his manner. When they first meet there is an instant attraction between the two. He winks at her in the window, he touches her foot when they are praying when she moves it away to see if it was an accident he does it again he has a bit of fun. Despite this he takes unnecessary risks when he doesn't even know her â€Å"He's just taken a risk, but for what?† and taking such risks could be the downfall to Offred â€Å"He begins to whistle. Then he winks.† The penalty for these notions is too extreme to be taking any chances and even little things such as winking and touching could result in her being sent to the colonies. They just aren't worth it. When they both meet illegally at night unintentionally they kiss and give into there urges but then push each other away again. This is the start of their relationship and they keep going back to each other after Serena-joy arranged for them to spend the night together. The first time was mainly business but she kept going back it was something to live for and someone to live. She wanted to be touched so badly â€Å"we make love not sex† and there is a clear line between these two. The situation is very dangerous for them both which makes it more exciting and increases the strong sexual attraction between them. Things are further complicated by Offreds feelings for Luke. She didn't consider her relationship with the commander as betraying Luke but she does her relationship with Nick she wanted it to happen. She keeps going back but if he really cared about her then he would stop it because he wouldn't want her to get caught. But he keeps doing it and doing it he keeps tempting her. Offred puts a lot of trust in him at an early stage she tells him her real name, which he uses to his advantage towards the end when he comes and rescues her. This shows a sign of trust . Nick is also very jealous when the commander and Offred are together he gets he spies on her. If this jealousy develops you don't the consequences he could kill her or turn her in. It could have developed like this. In conclusion Nick saves her because he takes her away at the end. He also releases her from the pressure and tension of Gilead. He tries to make everything feel as normal as possible the way it used to be by having a relationship the sneaking around is like a stimulant but Offred should be used to it due to her affair with Luke. He also gets her pregnant which means that even if he didn't save her at the end it meant that she wouldn't have to go to the colonies. However, he does take huge risks, which would mean that he is endangering his and her life for cheap thrills such as winking and touching her foot.

Non farming activities in india Essay

Dairy – It is a common activity in many villages. People feed their buffalos on various kinds of grass and the jowar and bajra that grows during rainy season. Then the milk is sold in nearby villages and towns. It is alos transported to far away towns and cities. A dairy is a business enterprise established for the harvesting of animal milk – mostly from cows or goats , but also from buffalo , sheep , horses or camels – for human consumption. A dairy is typically located on a dedicated dairy farm or section of a multi-purpose farm that is concerned with the harvesting of milk.kaloram Shops – People involved in Trade(shopkeepers) buy various goods from wholesale markets in the cities and sell them in the village Some villagers sell rice, wheat, sugar, tea, oil, biscuits, soap, toothpaste, batteries, candles etc.. People whose houses are close to the bus stand use a part of the space to open small shops. Some sell eatables like pakoras, samosas etc.. Transport – Transport is another major activity of villages.People with rickshaws, tongas, tractors, truks, bogey and bullock carts are the ones in the transport service and they transport goods and services from one place to another and in return get paid for it. —————————————- Cottage Industry in Indian Villages Another major occupation in Indian villages is the cottage industry. Cottage industry has emerged as a major source of employment in Indian villages over the period of time. Many villagers are occupied in various kinds of art and crafts works. The villagers produce different types of handicrafts products and many of them are earning their livelihoods by marketing them. The occupations like artisan in wood, cloth, metal and leather have been in existence in Indian villages, since the ancient period and are found even in the modern times. Many Indian villagers are dependent on these occupations to earn their livelihoods. The women in the rural areas, too are actively getting involved in different industries like matchbox and firework industries, Bidi making, agate and  slate industries, coffee and tea industries, brick industry, construction industry, electronics industry, spice industries, etc. Among these, the Bidi, slate or brick making industries are the most well spread industries in Indian villages. Apart from these industries, the Indian villagers have also become sweepers and scavengers. pottery :Pottery being an age old handicraft in India, the roots of the India pottery industry can be traced back to the earliest times of civilization. The beginning of pottery making trails back to the Neolithic era. During the time of the Indus Valley Civilization, this effective art form improved with technology. In the present day, the pottery industry in India has been put forward as a major cottage industry as well as on the contemporary lines in both small and big pottery concerns.India along with several other developing countries of Asia is considered as one of the first Asian countries to manufacture as well as export products of pottery. The pottery industry in India provides mass employment along with betterment of the living standards; both the village and city people comprise the work force of the industry. . tie and die:Tie-dye is a process of tying and dyeing a piece of fabric or cloth which is made from knit or woven fabric, usually cotton; typically using bright colorsDifferent forms of tie and dye have been practiced in India.Bandhani also known as Bandhej is a type of tie-dye practiced mainly in the states of Rajasthan and Gujarat, India Bandhej in Rajasthan is a traditional form of tie and dye which began about 5000 years ago. It is the oldest tie and dye tradition still in practice. Large scale industry: Large scale industries refers to those industries which require huge infrastructure, man power and a have influx of capital assets. The term ‘large scale industries ‘ is a generic one including various types of industries in its purview. it thus provides job many villagers Indian economy is heavily dependent on these large industries for its economic growth, generation of foreign currency and for providing job opportunities to millions of Indiansjaintia factories of rajgarh chips and namkeen .carpentery=the carpenter is one of the five useful articians of the villages Carpentry is a skilled trade in which the primary work performed is the use of wood to construct items as large as buildings and as small as desk drawers.

Embryonic Stem Cell Research is Morally and Medically Ethical Essay

Introduction Issue ( Background)   Science and technology have opened many doors of progress in all areas of business.   On such area far exceeds mere business and industry and touches upon human life itself.   The medical community has reached a point where it can quite possibly create new and healthy cells and organs to replace those that are damaged.   This process is made possible through embryonic stem cell research (ESCR). Embryonic stem cells, as suggested by the name are extracted from embryos that have been fertilized in a laboratory setting for use by sterile couples and then, for whatever reason, are donated for research.   These cells are about five days old (Stem Cell Basics).   The cells are then developed and grown in a culture medium and shipped to other laboratories for further research. These stem cells are special because they can be converted through genetic manipulation to be any type of cell desired. â€Å"To generate cultures of specific types of differentiated cells—heart muscle cells, blood cells, or nerve cells, for example—scientists try to control the differentiation of embryonic stem cells. They change the chemical composition of the culture medium, alter the surface of the culture dish, or modify the cells by inserting specific genes† (Stem Cell Basics).   The benefit of this process is that these new healthy cells can be used to replace defective or diseased cells in individuals, in effect curing them of certain ailments. Conflict, c. Stance and d. Enthymeme The controversy with this particular procedure stems from the fact that extracting these cells effectively kills the developing embryo, called at this stage a zygote.   Those who believe that these cells constitute a human being, liken the process of extracting stem cells to abortion and murder (Robinson).   Those that do not believe this way see the major medical benefits as outweighing the death of an unwanted and unused zygote.   Most of the arguments against ESCR are religious in nature while those that favor it are following pragmatic and realistic processes.   In light of the medically invaluable information and hope it provides, embryonic stem cell research should legally continue with full funding from the federal government.   II. Grounds  Ã‚   Even as focus has turned toward adult stem cell research, ESCR remains the most valuable and efficient way of utilizing stem cells for medical purposes.   In 2005, the United Kingdom announced that it was considering opening a stem cell bank using embryonic stem cells.   Its research team at the University of Cambridge found that only 150 human embryos would be needed to created genetic material for approximately two-thirds of the population.   The bank hopes to use these cells to replace â€Å"diseased or damaged tissue in conditions such as diabetes and neurodegenerative disorders† (Lita). Embryonic stem cells can help treat neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s and endocrinal disorders such as diabetes.   Embryonic stem cells can be transformed into dopamine-producing neurons because these stem cells can be transformed into virtually any body cell including nerve cells and pancreatic cells.   These cells can then begin producing dopamine or insulin as the case may be. (Kennell). Victims of spinal cord injuries may soon be able to regain motor control as the result of ESCR.   Preliminary research shows that it is possible to train embryonic stem cells to retrace neuro-motor pathways.   Douglas Kerr, M.D., Ph.D. of Johns Hopkins University notes that â€Å"This is proof of the principle that we can recapture what happens in early stages of motor neuron development and use that to repair damaged nervous systems†Ã‚   (Embryonic Stem Cells Repair Latent Motor Nerve). III. Warrant Despite its proven medical capabilities and hope for many other medical uses, ESCR has found virulent opposition from conservatives and the religious community.   Their arguments hinge on the use of a living human being as fodder for medical experimentation.   These arguments are suspect, even flawed, for several reasons, both philosophical and biological. Generally speaking, the more practical and pragmatic medical argument must be valued over the religious beliefs of some. First, many will argue for the analogy between ESCR and murder.   Many differences exist.   As stated earlier, the zygote in question is only five days old.   In no way could this particular cluster of cells contain life at this point – only the potential for life, which is basically the case whenever a woman and a man have intercourse.   Lawyers from the National Institute of Health agree, noting that â€Å"stem cells are incapable of growing into a complete person. They may be coaxed to develop into nerve cells or heart cells. But, at most, they can become an organ, not a complete living person. They cannot be considered a form of human life, even within the definition of pro-life supporters† (Robinson). Doctors even give biological explanations for this conclusion:     Ã¢â‚¬Å"Human embryos are defined as human organisms derived by fertilization from one or more gametes or diploid cells. Pluripotent stem cells are specialized subpopulation of cells capable of developing into most (ectoderm, mesoderm, and ectoderm), but not all, human tissue and may be derived from human embryos†Ã‚   (Chesney).   Medically, even the cells are not the same. However, the zygotes are being stored indefinitely at in-vitro fertilization clinics.   For example, in the United States are over 350 fertility clinics that offer the in-vitro fertilization process.   When a women submits herself to the procedure, about 25 ova are removed from her body and fertilized with her husband’s (or other donor’s) sperm.   Only 2-4 of the embryos are used in the fertilization procedure and the rest are frozen in liquid nitrogen to save for later use.   Generally, these remaining 20 or so embryos stay in the clinic indefinitely.   Few couples use them all, and even fewer agree to donate them to other infertile couples. Many embryos die due to changes in temperature or movement, and some clinics even throw the excess embryos away or use them in training staff (Robinson).   The birth control pill blocks a fertilized ovum from implanting as does an intrauterine device (IUD).   These two devices, along with discarding the embryos or using them for training, also affect the potential for life but are not so reviled.   Moreover, the embryos’ ‘owners’ must always give consent to use these embryos for research; nobody is tricked during this process (Robinson). Basically, if these cells are not used for ESCR, they will ultimately be used for nothing. Second, many opponents argue that adult stem cell research (ASCR) could replace ESCR and save the embryos.   This is not yet the case, if it ever will be.   First of all, the nature of the stem cells are different in adults and in embryos.   Embryonic stem cells are more flexible and can become virtually any cell of any organ or tissue in the body.   Adult stem cells are much more limited and cannot even be found in many organs or tissues in the body. Moreover, adult stems cells are limited in number, even considered ‘minute’ in quantity and are very hard to identify.   Embryonic stem cells are easy to identify and exist in large, usable numbers.   Most importantly, embryonic stem cells are virtually blank, making them easy to manipulate into other tissues.   Adult stem cells can contain genetic defects or â€Å"DNA errors caused by replication or exposure to toxins† (Cohen). ESCR has been the focus of scientist for nearly two decades while ASCR has just begun to get some notice.   Because of the emergence of ASCR, the opponents want to completely ban ESCR, not understanding that it is the reason that ASCR is even possible.   However, because of the religious issues, ASCR is being forced into the limelight while ESCR has lost funding. As a result, Dr. Helen Blau, ironically an adult stem cell researcher at the Stanford University, argues that she feels â€Å"strongly we need embryonic stem cells. The answers are not just going to come from the adult stem cells and it would be extremely short-sighted to shift completely to just adult stem cells† (Cohen).   While adult stem cells may provide promise in the future, their use in the present is simply not as lucrative or promising as those of embryonic stem cells at this point in time. Backing and V. Conditions of rebuttal Most arguments in opposition to ESCR originate in the religious realm.   Dr. Dr. David Prentice,   professor of life sciences at Indiana State University and founder of Do No Harm, The Coalition of Americans for Research Ethics notes precisely this when he asserts, â€Å"The root of the debate really comes down to the ethical question of what’s the moral status of a human embryo.   Is it a person or is it a piece of property? And obviously we have no consensus on that in this country and I think that means we should not use taxpayer funds to fund this type of research†Ã‚   (Cohen). Yet, historically, this religious realm, when mixed with federal forces, has been squelched in other instances.   For example, removing the ten commandments from federal buildings, denying prayer in school, and eliminate swearing under God to affirming under oath in courtroom proceedings are just a few of the ways that the government has attempted to separate the church and the state.   Why is the religious conservative view allowed to proliferate here when it is not allowed to do so in other instances? Similarly, the force of this religious surge against ESCR is the loss of life.   While the beginning moment of human life is hugely debatable, does ESCR not also promote life?   Lawyers and medical ethicists in favor of ESCR note that â€Å"Stem cells have an enormous promise to benefit mankind — to save lives and cure or treat diseases. This generates a very strong moral imperative to explore their potential† (Robinson). Similarly, the conservative and religious opposition seems to even contradict their own opinion by not voicing concern about in-vitro fertilization clinics in general.   As noted above, clinics routinely destroy abandoned embryos by flushing them down drains, incinerating them, or exposing them to room temperature†Ã‚   (Hall).   Basically, unused, destroyed embryos number in the hundreds of thousands in fertility clinics across the country, but these clinics are not subjected to the political manipulation that ESCR is, which only uses a dozen or two embryos in the clinical setting. Furthermore, the â€Å"parents† of these embryos are never challenged.   The donors get to decide the fate of their unused embryos.   The choices are to leave them to the use of the clinic, to donate them or to destroy them.   Dr. Carl Herbert, president of the San Francisco Fertility Centers, notes that while this loss may seem harsh, it simply mimics the natural reproductive cycle. He points out that Out of all the embryos created by sexual intercourse, roughly 3 out of 4 do not last long enough to produce a baby. About half of the fertilized eggs are lost even before the woman misses her first period following conception† (Hall).   Dr. Marcelle Cedars, a fertility specialist at the University of California at San Francisco’s IVF clinic agrees.   He argues that it is â€Å"unrealistic to expect technology to do much better at preserving the lives of early-stage embryos. Human reproduction is a very inefficient process and it is difficult to afford a higher status to embryos than nature does† (Hall). Qualifier Of course nobody wants to believe that a promising medical science field could be corrupt or greedy.   Even ESCR should operate under certain moral guidelines. In no way should an embryo ever be used in any way except by that to which its donor consents.   In addition, donors should not create embryos for the sheer purpose to sell them to clinics, as the process should result as a by-product of extra embryos create for potential implantation and not create any additional embryos not for that purpose.   Finally, tricking or deceiving individuals into donating embryos or withholding information about their use would also be morally wrong. VII. Conclusion ESCR is not the enemy of the moral fiber of the United States.   It is a medically promising procedure that does not violate any right to life laws.   Religious opposition to certain issues will always exist, but in recent history, it has not been allowed in interfere with federal political, social or educational decision-making.   Clearly other possibilities and alternatives to ESCR may arise, but until these options are as viable as ESCR, they should not be allowed to interfere with the medical promise of this type of research. Works Cited Chesney, Russell et al. American Academy of Pediatrics, Human Embryo Research Committee   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   on Pediatric Research and Committee on Bioethics.   Pediatrics 108 (3), 3 Sept. 2001:     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   813-816.   Retrieved 1 April 2008 from   http://aappolicy.aappublications.org/cgi/content/ full/pediatrics;108/3/813 Cohen, Elizabeth.   Adult stem cells or embryonic? Scientists differ.   CNN.com/Health.   10   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   August 2001.     Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Retrieved 1 April 2008 from http://archives.cnn.com/2001/HEALTH/ 08/09/stem.cell.alternative/ Embryonic Stem Cells Repair Latent Motor Nerve.   Science Daily. 28 June 2006. Retrieved 1   Ã‚   April 2008 from http://stemcell.taragana.net/archive/embryonic-stem-cells-repair-latent-  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   motor-nerve/ Hall, Carl T. â€Å"The forgotten embryo: Fertility clinics must store or destroy the surplus that is part   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   of the process.†   SF Gate News.   20 Aug. 2001. at: http://www.sfgate.com/ Kennell, David.   The promise of stem cell research. People’s Weekly World Newspapers.   29   Ã‚   July 2006.   Retrieved 1 April 2006 from http://www.pww.org/article/articleview/9582/1/332 Lita, Ana.   Embryonic Stem Cell Research: New Developments and Controversies.   MedBioWorld.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   10 October 2006.   Retrieved 1 April 2008 from http://www.medbioworld.com/ postgenomics_blog/?p=138 Robinson, B.A. Human Stem Cells – Ethical Concerns.   Religious Tolerance.   17 Oct. 2002.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚     Retrieved 1 April 2008 from http://www.religioustolerance.org/res_stem2.htm   Ã¢â‚¬Å"Stem Cell Basics.†Ã‚   The National Institutes of Health.   20 Feb. 2008.   Retrieved 1 April 2008 from http://stemcells.nih.gov/info/basics/basics3.asp