MCI Communications Corporation Essay

1-What is the likely level of MCI’s external needs over the next several years? By how much could they be expected to vary? Why? 2-Critique MCI’s past financial strtategy, giving attention to the types of securities on which it has relied. Why did MCI finance itself in the manner it did? 3-Based upon your analysis of the outlook for MCI and the competitive and regulatory evolution of the industry, recommend a capital structure policy for MCI and defend your proposal against plausible events. 4-Assume that Mr.English, the MCI chief financial officer, has the following financial alternatives available to him as of April 1983: a)$500 million of 12 1/2 , 20 year subordinated debentures b)$400 million of common stock c1)$600 million 7 5/8 20 year convertible subordinated debentures with conversion price of $ 54 per share (i.e., $1,000 bond would be converted into 18.52 conmmon shares) c2) $1 billion of a unit package consisting of a $1000 7  ½, 10 year subordinated debenture and 18.18 warrants, each entitling the holder to purchase one share of MCI common stock for 55$. The warrants would be exercisable until 1988 and are callable. The exercisei price of the warrants would be payable either in cash or by surrender of the debentures valued at their principal amount. Which if any of these alternatives would you recommend that Mr.English take? Why? In broad outline, what financing steps would you recommend he take over  the next several years?

Thessalonians

Thessalonians Thessalonians is based on two different letters that was written to the Christian community in Thessalonica. The purpose of the first letter was to clear up some of the misunderstandings about the return of Christ. The second letters purpose was to still clear up some of the misunderstandings about the Day of the Lord for they thought the day had already come. The first letter to the Christian community was sent from Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, though Paul was the main author. Paul was writing to them to clear up their misunderstandings about the return of Christ, also considers it as instructions in holy living.Paul wrote about his longing to visit the church in Thessalonica but he couldn’t because Satan had stopped them (1 Thessalonians 2:18). Though some believe the second letter to the Christian community is wrote by Paul others do not. Many scholars point out how the writing style, vocabulary, and structure of the 2 Thessalonians are too similar to the 1 Th essalonians. They suggest that it was written by an anonymous author 50 years after Paul’s death, using the 1 Thessalonians as their guideline. The early witnesses for the belief that Paul is not the author are strong and include Igantius, Justin, and Polycarp.Although there seems to be different beliefs on who wrote the 2 Thessalonians, no one will really know. Paul’s reasoning for both letters seems to be along the same point to clear up the misunderstanding of the return of Christ and how the Christian community of Thessalonica was being persecuted for they believed that the Day of the Lord had already come. The first book of Thessalonians was suspected to have been written in 49-51 CE when Paul was on his Corinthian mission. (Acts 17-18) records Paul’s visits to Thessalonica and then to Athens, and to Corinth, which is how they correspond the date of the letter.It has been read that Paul did not starting writing his letters until he started traveling to the various places. Therefore they based these dates on traveling companions and cross referenced between 1 Thessalonians and Acts. There are many arguments about when the 2 Thessalonians was written, because they believe that Paul did not write the letter. Depending on the actual authorship of the letter would be what the date of it was written would depend on. Stating that if the letter was written by someone else but in Paul’s name, it is said that it may have been wrote in the late first or perhaps the early second CE.With that being said it is not sure on the exact date or time frame that the 2 Thessalonians was wrote. With many opinions about the date and who wrote the 2 Thessalonians it will not be known until the authorship of the letter is cleared up. There is enough evidence on when 1 Thessalonians was written. How they correspond the dates to when he was traveling and that he was on his mission in Corinthian, which would be around the 49-51 CE. Paul was writing the let ter to the churches of Thessalonica which is the capital of the Roman province of Macedonia.His purpose of writing was to praise them on their â€Å"faith and love† that Timothy had brought and to focus on the instruction on how to live their Christian lives. Paul was writing this letter while he was on his mission in Corinthian where he was farther south in the province of Achaia. He wants the letter to be read aloud â€Å"to all his brothers† which means all his believers in Thessalonica. In 1 Thessalonians 4:3-4 it is confirmed of the conclusion that the churches of Thessalonica was mostly composed of gentile believers.Unlike Jews the Roman gentiles was notorious for being sexually immoral which is what Paul wanted the Thessalonians to keep them from. Both of the letters is written to the same audience the Christians of the Thessalonica churches. Without knowing who the true author of the second letter is it, there isn’t a for sure location on where the lette r was written although it is believed to be in Corinth if Paul did write the letter. Paul’s purpose of the first letter was to correct a misunderstanding about the return of Christ. To also urge his readers to respect their leaders, his could suggest that there was some tension among the people in the churches. He expressed his satisfaction over the progress that the community had made and his joy. His Jewish opponents apparently had made accusations about his cowardice and self-seeking charges brought against him. He points out the importance of Christian morality, to safeguard them from attempts to make new converts to Christianity and to revert to their old standards. Paul’s purpose of the second letter was to clear up any misunderstandings that came in the first letter.For he talked about the second coming of Christ, so those people believed in the Thessalonica churches that the coming of Christ was soon. Some quite their jobs, refused to work, and become idle busy bodies and gossips, so Paul wrote to them also to encourage them to go back to work. The Christians were being persecuted by the Jews for they were hardened by the hearts and jealous of their success. He was telling them that when Christ returned for judgment the ones that was afflicting pain upon them would be punished for their doings.The purpose of both letters is nearly the same, wanting to tell them of the second coming of Christ and live their lives the way that he has instructed them too. The only difference was to clear things up that many had misread in the second letter for they misbelieved that the coming of Christ was soon. For Paul did not know when the actual coming would be but he was warning them of it so they would be ready for judgment day. The first letter from Paul is unique because through most of the letter it is devoted to his prayer and thanksgiving for their faith in Christ.He writes to them concerned for his people and thankful for the time that he has spen t with them. In his letter he uses â€Å"You know† and â€Å"You Remember† repeatedly to remind them of the teaching he did to them. This shows how much of a personal relationship he had with the Thessalonian churches. He makes it clear in his letter that he is speaking to the ones that are followers of Jesus Christ. The second letter from Paul is unique as well. He still praises them for their faith in him and in Christ. He tells them of importance of letting their faith and love to continue to grow to be of examples for other churches.Despite all the suffering and pain they have been going through to not let their lives drift away from Christ. Explains the importance of getting prepared for the second coming of Christ and how gives them information about the apostle’s beliefs in when the second coming could be. Both of letters show Paul’s faith and love in the Thessalonians churches. He proves to those that he is very expectant of these churches to be e xamples for other churches through these letters. That despite the difficulties and pain that some go through that believing in Christ he will help you find your way out as long as you have faith and love in him.Throughout doing this paper I have learned many different opinions of whether Paul actually wrote the second letter or that he didn’t. I have been able to read about how Paul outpours his love and faith for the Thessalonian churches and that he wants them to live their lives for Christ. One of the key points that I have learned is that although you may struggle with difficulties and pain that if you have faith and love in Christ that he will help you find the way to survive these obstacles.Works Cited Coogan, Michael D. , et al. , eds. The New Oxford Annotated Bible. Oxford: New York, 2010. Print. The Providence Forum. Resource. Philadelphia National Bible City. The National Bible Association: Encouraging Everyone to Read the Bible. 2009. 25 Nov. 2012. Guthrie, Donald . New Testament Introduction: The Pauline Epistles. The Tyndale Press, 1960. Print. Holmes, Michael W. , et al. , eds. 1 & 2 Thessalonians NIV Application Commentary, Minnesota, 1998. Print.

Pop Culture Media Critique Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Pop Culture Media Critique - Essay Example As observed ‘Will and Grace’ present the gay community as a society struggling for acceptance while the show ‘The New Normal’ portrays the gay community as an accepted part of the society, even the name suggests the acceptance as it refers to being gay as the ‘new normal’. The United States government thought the governance of George W. Bush greatly supported the theme presented by ‘Will and Grace’ and it offered great support through the broadcast of hundreds of commercials on the sit-com with the help of the Bush campaign during the presidential campaigns. The heterosexual women in both shows play the role of supporting the couple and are used as the audiences judge on the gay characters. They are greatly important as they help the gay couple in understanding their roles as partners and also enabled the audience in the acceptance of the gay in the society showing that they are simply as natural as any other community in the society. For example, the women in ‘The New Normal’ help the couple in acquiring an adopted child. (Will & Grace Season 1 Videos & Clips Online, Trailer: The New

The UK Economy Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3250 words

The UK Economy - Research Paper Example â€Å"One fundamental change causing rising inactivity is the dramatic weakening of demand for unskilled labor since at least the mid-1970s. This is mainly due to technological change, which has favored the more educated – for example, computer use – and, to a lesser extent, globalization – exports from countries with many unskilled workers†. Changes that affected the UK market considerably much vast for describing the changes that have happened throughout the recent recession, it is positive to appear at the relative positions of each group previous to this. Several groups are significantly better than others. The changes in the economic conditions of the UK market are in the various forms and they are like the changing the labor market, changing organizations and the changes in the education and the skills.Employment in the UK is characterized by age, gender, ethnicity as well as physical fitness, a growth of workforce in the United Kingdom for the last century has been so unstable, for example considering the graph shown below, which illustrates the employment rate based on age and gender in the year 2007. This trend affects organizations labor as one of the factors of production. This clearly reflects the pattern of employment in the UK.The figure above shows employment rate for men and women in London by age, as seen, working age women have a lower rate than men i.e. 63% and 77% respectively, where as employment rate of women with children and that of women without children is the same.

Urban tourism, heritage and culture Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Urban tourism, heritage and culture - Essay Example Cultural and heritage centers are remarkable for contributing towards tourism industry, and generating income to towns and communities. Ð ¡ultures and heritages may be remarkable for construction of historical narratives regarding a culture, or concerning particular communities. In most cases, promotion of heritage centers and cultural heritages are not meant for tourism, but to preserve identity of communities for long periods. This heritage may be a form of symbolism, representing spectacular events, which may have shaped the lives and history of the people concerned. The main aspect in conservation of heritages is to maintain these symbols, and the unique characteristics of the preserved heritages are responsible for attracting both local and international tourists, as unique images of identity. Attraction of tourists to heritage sites leads to increased income generated through tourism activities in these regions, and urban tourism may result from this tourist activities. Many a uthorities have therefore reconditioned cities and towns near heritage centers to attract more tourists with an aim of not only preserving heritages, but to increase income in the tourism industry. In this report, the Amiens Cathedral of Notre- Dame in France will be considered as a precious heritage center that has been recognized and listed under UNESCO’s global heritage centers. Historical Background Amiens Cathedral, located in the heart of Picardy is among the largest Gothic churches constructed in the 13th century. The cathedral particularly stands unique in its construction, coherence of its plan, amazing fine displays of sculptures in the principle facade and the South transept, among other spectacular aspects (UNESCO, 2012). The cathedral was initiated in 1152 under the auspices of Bishop Evard, who made huge collections from clergy and people for this noble function (Brown 1846, 100). The cathedral was designed by Robert Lusarche as the architect, but the bishop and Lusdarche did not live to see the completion of the Cathedral that was completed in 1288 (Brown 1846, 100). However, the cathedral was first designed under the Romanesque architecture but was destroyed by fire in 1218, making reconstruction to be carried out in 1220 (UNESCO, 2012). Many of the statues and decorations in the cathedral were completed around 14th century; many years after the completion of the cathedral. The Amiens Cathedral is very different from other cathedrals and buildings in England, and other European locations in many aspects; including both style and design (Brown 1846, 101). This Cathedral is documented to be more advanced and perfect compared to other Gothic architectural works that were prominent during this period (Brown 1846, 101). The French cathedral is in many aspects different from many other cathedrals designed according to the Gothic architecture in this period, making it the most remarkable Gothic architectural work in history. The cathedral was r ecognized in 1972 by UNESCO under the World Heritage Site Agreement, but was to be officially listed as a world heritage in 1981 (Durand 2012, 9).This recognition changed the entire Amiens area, with the town being reconfigured as a tourist’s destination, leading to growth of more tourism infrastructure, consequently attracting thousands of tourists in this area, considering that France is one of the global leading tourist destinations today. Heritages leading to urban tourism Jenkins (1999) uses the word destination image a number of times and in different contexts. The image of any tourist destination is firstly designed in the cognitive opinion of the events, typical features, and character of the place. Increasing the information related to the image of such cities or places through organic means leads to enhanced clarity as Jenkins further elaborates, and this enhanced clarity leads to more tourists flocking these

The Scientific Method Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

The Scientific Method - Essay Example To determine whether the hypothesis is correct, an experiment is designed. Any external factors that can affect the results should be minimized. This means, set-ups that do not contain the test variable (negative control) should be included so that the design is ensured to be not presenting any effectors other than the variable being tested. As well, a positive control is included so that it is ensured that the experimental method is capable of producing the result being tested (Carter, 2010). For this experiment, six set-ups will be made, with three replicates each. Replicates are important so that the outcomes cannot be attributed to chance. The more replicates having the same outcomes, the more established that data is. Experiments will begin when the sun rises, possibly around six in the morning. Thus, set-up will start minutes or hours before that Experimental Set-up For the first set-up, three 1 ft. Coleus plants will be placed outside, in the area where it can be maximally exposed to the sun. They will be placed beside one another. On the other hand, another three will be placed in a very dark room/closet that will only be opened after the experiment. For the third set-up, the upper half of the shoots, stems and leaves included, will be covered by aluminium foil, and for the fourth set-up, it is the lower half that will be covered. These six will be exposed to the sun together with the 1st set-up. For the fourth and fifth set-up, a lamp will be placed beside the left and the right side of plants, respectively. Experiment proper The plants will remain on their respective places from six in the morning to twelve in the afternoon. Hourly, specifically at 6 a.m. (start), 7 a.m., 8 a.m., 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m., and 12 noon, pictures of the plants will be taken to observe and record any macroscopic changes in the growth of the plants. Then, the sho ots will be divided into four, first into top and bottom halves, and then to left and right. The same

Basis of Grammatical Evidence Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Basis of Grammatical Evidence - Essay Example From the two perspectives, there is a contrast basing on the issue of spying, which is a form of investigation patterns, which incurred and propelled by various participants in both texts. Text 1 adopted from the Arabs news Germany summons U.S. envoy over Merkel phone spy suspicion and Text 2 adopted from the New York news Anger Growing among Allies on U.S. Spying Table1: The clause structure types: Transitive Intransitive Active Passive Long Short Text: 1 1.8kol,5 8 18 1 5 Text: 2 14 9 16 3 8 From the table 1 it gives a clear indication that in both texts transitive clauses have been used more that intransitive clauses. In addition, there is an active voice more than passive voice. We define a transitive clause as one that involves the actor and the goal initiated. In consideration of intransitive, either it is termed as the absence of the actor or goal initiated from the clause availed in the texts. The author has used a total of 14 transitive clauses and 9 intransitive clauses to bring about the essence of tasks required. Table2: Process types analysis of text 1 and 2. Text 1 Text 2 Material 48% 65% Mental 19% 15.9% Verbal 29% 2.5% Relational 2% 20% Interpretation: text usually represents a grammatical norm and both processes and participants are present. Grammatical representations play a vital role since it is one of the best indicators in which texts think or the way of seeing operations present in texts. More so, process analysis is a provision of pictures, which depicts more information about the text, and the prevailed hidden messages termed as ideologies of the scholar. From the table above, we realize that material processes, as well as texts, usually occurs frequently as compared to other processes availed. Text 1 is from the Arabs news. It states out a high frequency of material processes, indicating 48 % of the physical workings involving suspicion summon that was initiated on the Chancellor Angela Merkel’s phone call line during his offici al duty in Berlin. Physical norm is evident here in consideration of the following activities that were availed during the process. â€Å"The American ambassador was summoned for talks with Foreign Minister Westerwelle this afternoon.† AFP quoted this from a foreign ministry spokesperson. Moreover, this text represents 29% of verbal processes, showing that the text is news text. Going by scholarly research, we find that the author behind this news wants to consolidate his texts with humor and a sense of real talk evident as per the availed text line from the article. This text line is â€Å"The position of the German government will be presented clearly. The move comes a day after Merkel named President Barack Obama on Wednesday demanding answers after learning that U.S. spies may have monitored her phone. A statement by the chancellor’s spokesperson, Steffen Seibert, says Merkel warned Obama warned this would constitute a â€Å"breach of trust† between the all ies.† Similarly, a mental process is evident in this article with an approximate percentile of 19%. This shows that the author believes and have a strong desire and feelings towards the issue of suspicion as far as the aspect of phone monetization is of concern. â€Å"Among close friends and partners, as the Federal Republic of Germany and the U.S. have been for decades, there should be no such monitoring of the communications of a head of government,† the statement said, according to AFP.†Ã‚     

Swatch - strategic management Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Swatch - strategic management - Case Study Example The introduction of the Swatch watch is not simply a single-company success; it revolutionizes the whole Swiss watch industry. It is a brand name associated with style and fashion that has sold over 200 million units within a decade obtaining strong presence in all big markets. By 1998 the watch industry is shifting to the mature phase of its life cycle, bringing new challenges to Swatch and the other watch manufacturers. Swatch management team is facing the necessity to reconsider strategy, pressed by several major developments: By 1998 the watch market is reaching its maturity phase. What is typical for the maturity stage in an industry is decreasing sales growth and tougher competition (Thompson, 1996). Persuasive promotion and strong brand identity are key success factors for market leaders and this is one of Swatch's competitive advantages that can be used to counteract competitive pressures. Increased competition in the maturity stage of the life cycle means more companies adopting the Swatch strategy in terms of pricing and brand positioning, competing on the same market segment. Swatch's major competitors are The Timex Corporation with a number of watch brands positioned differently to cover different market segments; Guess, already part of The Timex Corporation; Fossil, and Casio. There are several factors that influence the intensity of competition (Porter, Competitive Strategy, pp. 17-21). In the watch industry intense rivalry is fuelled by the slow market growth, due to life-cycle maturity stage; and an increasing number of companies competing with equal offers on a market that is limited and decreasing in size. The high volume mass market segment is likely to attract further market entrants - other low cost manufacturers from Far Eastern countries. Additionally, on the low-price mass market segment product and brand switching is very easy, especially for fashion-driven products. According to Figures 3 and 5 in the case study, the players in the watch industry can be put in several categories. Cheap Hong Kong brands - low priced product associated with low prestige and no design exclusivity. Up-market segment dominated by watches like Rolex, Rado in the high prestige, high-priced category. Because of the specific market niche, these watches are sold in smaller quantities and have high profit margins. Medium prestige, medium price category between the two market extremes - dominated by companies like Seiko and Citizen. Swatch's strategy is in the low-price but strongly branded category, competing with brands like Benetton, J. Boxer, Timberland, Kickers etc. 1.4. Changing consumer base The power of customers is one of the five competitive forces, as identified by Porter (Porter Competitive Strategy, 1980). The changes in the consumer base are caused by demographic and fashion developments. The watch market is strongly influenced by changing lifestyle and fashion. Preference to more durable metal watches makes the standard Swatch plastic watch less attractive. To respond to this change, the company has introduced the Irony brand that is in line with new trends. Another pressing factor is changing demographics that will lead to decrease in customer base over the next decade. This means that Swatch will have to compete for fewer customers in the present market

The development of the drama Essay Example for Free

The development of the drama Essay Stimulus Whilst most of the stimulus was provided by the teacher, there was some pieces that were brought in by members of the group. Luke brought in a piece of music by The Streets entitled ‘The Irony of it All’. This stimulus provided the idea for the scene that compared weed and alcohol and later we used the lyrics as a ‘script’ for the scene. Research During the beginning stages of the production process, after we had first split into our smaller sub-groups we each went out and did individual research on the drug of our sub-group. For example, Alice Weaver researched LSD, and provided the group with an account of what it was like to experience an LSD trip – as well as the general effects of the drug. During the later stages of production the group researched quotes that could be used during the scenes to create almost verbatim parts to the play. Jack was responsible for finding some quotes to be used as his ‘Gerald McMillan’ character. These quotes were taken from the special ‘Question Time’ with David Davis and David Cameron. He also researched quotes from a previous interview with David Cameron. Script Writing We decided that some scenes should be scripted, in order to ensure that certain points were put across and important lines were said. This also was to increase the flow of the piece, and ensure that scenes did not ‘drag’. The scene writing responsibilities fell on different people, usually one of the people in the scene. For example I created the script for ‘Taylor Time’; Jack created the script for the pub scene and Katie created the script for ‘Saturday Night’. Whilst the ‘Saturday Night’ scene was lyrics from ‘The Irony of it All’, Katie was responsible for artistically placing the lyrics into a form that resembled a scripted dialogue, and deciding who had what lines from the song and, if necessary, adding lines. Alice created a script, with the input of those in the scene, consisting of a rhyming ‘poem’ to stylise the scene. This process involved a lot of group trust that the scriptwriter would cover all the aspects, which the group would like the scene to cover. These expectations were often met, however if there was problems the group was able to work together to edit the script to meet the requirements. Scene Creation During the rehearsals, we split into several groups, and each had a drug to create scenes for. Each pair was asked to create several scenes each lesson. Once these aims had been met we met together and allowed the others to give their input. For each story we attempted to create a ‘positive’, ‘negative’ and a ‘turning point’. This process involved all of us separately, sometimes due to the crossover in the use of actors in different scenes those that weren’t in the scene often helped create scenes for the other groups. For example Katie helped to create scenes for Jack and Saimon, involving a news reporter and a cocaine-addicted rock star. These scenes formed the basis of the scenes involving ‘Jane Doe’ and ‘Gerald McMillan’ that were created at a later date. Direction When we completed the scenes each lesson we came back together and performed our scenes to the rest of the group. The group was able to give directorial points of view as to what would make the scene more effective – or to suggest ideas for scenes that may be based on the scene created that may be better for the final production. During the later stages of production, when many rehearsals were done as a complete group, those not involved in the scenes could watch and suggest improvements. This again resulted in a lot of trust, as we had to rely on the directors to shape the scene in a way that would portray our message.

Hope Focused Marriage Counseling Essay Example for Free

Hope Focused Marriage Counseling Essay Unlike other explorations insinuated in the context of research, marriage counseling has been one of the unspecialized fields emerged with theoretical assumptions and practice (Stuckert, 2003). This however, has been the challenge to psychologists and practitioners in defying the thought that marriage cannot be taken into research since its hypotheses and results of practice have been acclimated, nevertheless the volume available for study is accumulated. Everett L. Worthington Jr. , a psychology professor and the proponent of over 150 articles tackling issues on marriage, forgiveness and reconciliation was able to find standard procedures on how to keep marriages anchored on Christianity based marital therapy. More specifically, through the light of his year 1999 published book, Hope-Focused Marriage Counseling, couples are to be taken to a self rehabilitation which will give hope to individuals who are living in a room full of skeptic viewpoints about marriage and eventually open a realization that his substantial research shall lead them to a path where â€Å"miracles do happen in the real world. † (Worthington, 1999) Overview Marriage is a shadow of the relationship that we are expected to have with Jesus—permanent, loving, committed. (Eph 5:32) Everett L. Worthington begins his book with a verse in the bible which depicts the meaning of marriage in the most moral and Christian way thus giving a connotation that helping troubled couples is not an easy task. However, she points out the fact that the extent of healing relationships is through developing a character of Christ embodied in every individual’s personality and manifest such with one’s relationships to his or her social network as well (Worthington, 1999). Further, he stresses that when a relationship has Christ as vanguard, life will be inhabited with the verity of love, faith and hope and that then is the start of a bright thing. Strengths What makes his book amazing falls on the grounds of analytic and realistic situations as the core of the gist of the whole scenario. Initially introducing theories then later putting the theories into practice makes readers able to divulge their selves in the dimension that the author intends them to live with. His strategies (advices, so to speak) draws out a hysteria which will make readers know their respective state in life at first, hence, for having been given the momentum to realize what is happening in their lives, they will seek for answers on how to save them from their presumed agony. Further, his approaches through exercises which are efficient to exhibit (Worthington, 1999)—drawing fundamental values, the promotion of confession and forgiveness, communication intensification, aiding conflict resolution, alterations of the pattern of thinking, intimacy development, and the cementing of commitment—gives grandeur to the book as readers can implement these exercises with their partners or core groups. Realistically crafted, he gives marriage counseling a twist by inculcating his own experiences which gives conviction to the statements and recommendations written in his book. One fascinating fact on the book is its distinctiveness in course, since unlike other books on marriage counseling, typically establishing manuals which synonymously suggest divorce or annulment so as not to complicate the situation, this book thinks otherwise. Though the author admitted that is hard and rarely possible in the contemporary society—divorce is legal and other forms of law that allow couples to â€Å"live† without the need of marital rites—still, he fervently believes that the sacred matrimony must be preserved even if others no longer accept as true the tradition and the essence of spiritual intimacy. These ideas represented in the book will coin back the integrity, accountability, prudence and proper teaching among couples. Weaknesses â€Å"Hope-focused rather than problem-focused† (Worthington, 1999) this is the toweringly hopeful campaign of the author. Thus, because of globalization, cultural diversity and the differences of every individual, there may be some who may not appreciate the book for reasons that inhibit the issue on dissimilarity of character, viewpoint in life, tradition and environmental influences. It is evident that the target audiences of the book are Christians—although optimistic individuals would also be interested in reading the book—hence this leads us to a remorseful realization that it will not drive â€Å"naysayer† or a pessimist to read it. Still, fingers are crossed on the intent of the book, and that is to spread the thought that â€Å"change is possible† and in the long run, every couple will be given a new outlook on their marriage for the benefit of their family. Conclusions and further remarks The functions of the husband and the wife bear a multifaceted blueprint of expectations of the responses which are to come from one another. Hence as humans, challenges and trials are inevitable aspects in life and must therefore be taken with full accountability after having vowed under the sacred matrimony and under the blessing of the church. However, in the present era, where several factors influence every person’s character and personality, asking for help and intervention from one who truly understands the quintessence of love and marriage is a an ideal act to do (Stuckert, 2003). Communication mostly is the main problem of couples and Worthington is able to help by producing a masterpiece which, with confidence, he believes will save troubled marriages. Forgive. Reconcile. Change can happen if one will listen while the other speaks. References Stuckert, R. P. (2003). Role Perception and Marital Satisfaction. A Configurational Approach. Marriage and Family Living, 25(4), 415-419. Worthington, E. L. (1999). Hope-Focused Marriage Counseling: A Guide to Brief Therapy. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press.

History Of Cambodia In The 20th Century History Essay

History Of Cambodia In The 20th Century History Essay Cambodia is a country that is about the size of Missouri which is 69,898 square miles or 181,036 square kilometers. Cambodia is located in Southeast Asia on the Indochinese peninsula. Thailand borders Cambodia on the northwest side, Vietnam borders Cambodia on the southeast side, and to the southwest is the gulf of Thailand. Phnom Penh is the kingdoms capital and is the largest city. Phnom Penh is the center of political, commercial, industrial and cultural activities. Cambodia in the 20th Century was under French rule. There were some economic developments that took place in Cambodia. Some of these economic developments were roads and railways were built and the rubber industry grew up. Unfortunately the Cambodians were forced to pay high taxes and from the 1930s Cambodian nationalism grew. The Japanese then occupied Cambodia in 1941. At the beginning the Japanese allowed the French officials to remain in their posts but in March 1945 as the Japanese were losing the war they were very desperate and tried to befriend the Cambodians. Finally they arrested French officials and then Cambodia was declared as independent. When the Japanese surrendered the French took over Cambodia again in October 1945. When the French gain control over Cambodia for the second time they did not allow them to have political parties and a constitution. A treaty of 1949 made Cambodia semi-independent. King Sihanouk dismissed the government in 1952. He took personal control of Cambodia and formed his own political movement. Between the years of 1955 to 1970 he took complete domination of politics that this era was often referred to as the Sihanouk era. His father died in 1960 and he named himself Chief of State. He called this movement Buddhist Socialism. The interesting fact was that this really was not a socialist at all. Sihanouks control started to dwindle in 1968 when the communists began a civil war. In Sihanouk left Cambodia in 1970. After Sihanouk left the country the National Assembly voted to remove his title as chief of state. Cambodia was then renamed Khmer Republic. The communists were in the spot light. Cambodia was bombed by Americans. America bombed this country to try and stop the communists. Then on 17 April 1975 Phnom Phen was finally captured. In the year of 1975 a horrible and devastating incident occurred. In the reign of the Khmer Rouge they were led by Pol Pot who is also known as Brother Number One. Millions of people were killed by Pol Pot and the Khmer Rouge. The exact number is not known for certain but the estimated amount is 1.5 million and it may have been as many as 3 million. Pol Pot stated that history would begin again in Cambodia. The first revolution was now the first year of history for Cambodia. Cambodia was mostly an agricultural country in 1975. Pol Pot decided he wanted it to be completely agricultural. All the people who resided in towns and cities were forced to move to the countryside. He also stated that agricultural output should be doubled within four years. This is completely an unrealistic target. He put a banned on private property and collective farms were formed. Workers on these farms were forced to work long hours to try and grow extra rice. They were mistreated because they werent given enough food to eat and many got sick from illness and died from a combination of exhaustion and malnutrition. Pol Pot also banned religion. Any people who were caught practicing Buddhism were automatically executed for it. Family relationships were also banned because he felt that parents exploited their children. If anyone broke a rule even if it was a small rule they would be executed. People were also being executed for being lazy and for complaining. Khmer Rouge also murdered intellectuals. People who spoke a foreign language or who were glasses were executed. This horrible situation was finally ended by the Vietnam War. The Vietnamese invaded Cambodia in December of 1978 and they prevailed very quickly. After Pol Pots capture he escaped and he passed away in 1998. The soldiers that worked under Pol Pot fled to Thailand and they were welcomed by the Thais who feared an invasion by the Vietnamese. The Khmer Rouge still continued to try and cause chaos. They continued a guerrilla war against the Vietnamese. Thankfully the Vietnamese forces withdrew from Cambodia in 1989. After the forces withdrew several different parties decided to try and negotiate amongst one another. The negotiations lead to a Paris Peace Accords of 1991. They abandoned Communism in Cambodia and a provisional government ruled until 1993. After the provisional government was ruled elections were held and a constitution was framed. Sihanouk was made a constitutional monarch and in 1999 Cambodia joined ASEAN. Today Cambodia is still a very poor country. There is hope for this country about its future. In the early years of the 21st Century the Cambodian economy grew very fast and with good results. The fastest growing industry for Cambodia is tourism. Cambodia also has a clothing industry and this industry is beginning to rise as well. Some events that have had an impact on Cambodias economy would have to be Pol Pot and his leadership. Pol Pot tried to make the country into a completely agricultural economy and he tried to do this unrealistically. He wanted production to happen overnight and this was nearly impossible. I also believe the war in Cambodia created a huge impact on Cambodia. Anytime you have leaders who are doing no good for a country and are doing bad it has a huge impact on a country. Many of the Cambodians died when Pol Pot was in charge of the country. Also when a country goes to war this too leads to a poor economy. This is because the country normal has to start all over again from scratch. They have to try and build up their country again or try and make their country more prosperous than it was in the beginning. In doing so this takes time and I believe this is what Cambodia is trying to do now. The current economic system is mainly agricultural but they are also trying to build up their industrial system as well. As mentioned before Cambodia has clothing industry which is helping the country builds up their economic system. The clothing industry is expected to rise within the next few years. Also tourism is the countrys most successful means of industry today. The countrys economic system is a reflection of its history in different ways. For example tourism helps Cambodias economy. This is because many tourists want to visit this country because they are intrigued with the countries. Pol Pot ruined the countrys economy by his controlling leadership style and his unrealistic idea of changing the countrys economic system. Many tourists visit and learn about the countrys history of when Pol Pot was in control and find this very intriguing and this brings many tourists to this country. Tourism is the highest means of industrial success for this country. Therefore I believe this country will be able to have a successful economic system despite their history. I am very optimistic in believing this because I believe that with all the tourism this country is gaining this will help stabilize their economy. However I believe this country might face some problems in doing so. Cambodia is still a very poor country. It is very hard to make a poor country into a successful one. I dont think that Cambodia will ever be a prosperous country but I think they could be successful and be stable. I also think another problem that could result is that another powerful leader could try and take over this country. They banned communism but who is to say that this might be allowed again. If a powerful leader tries to take control of this country this could result in bigger issues than what Cambodia is facing today. This could either mean that the country would go back to being under someone elses power and end up even worse off than what they already are . If this doesnt happen then the country might go to war again to protect their country from a future leader and their control. I dont believe this will happen but it is a concern. I think with that this country has potential it will not happen overnight but I believe that it will be a successful country in the future.

Welfare Reform :: Social Welfare Retirement Economics Essays

Welfare Reform Welfare is a public assistance program that provides at least a minimum amount of economic security to people whose incomes are insufficient to maintain an adequate standard of living. These programs generally include such benefits as financial aid to individuals, subsidized medical care, and stamps that are used to purchase food. The modern U.S. welfare system dates back to the Great Depression of the 1930’s. During the worst parts of the Depression, about one-fourth of the labor force was without work. More than two-thirds of all households would have been considered poor by today's standards. With a majority of the capable adult population experiencing severe financial misfortune, many Americans turned to the government for answers. In response, U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt led a social and economic reform movement attacking the Depression. Part of his newly enacted â€Å"New Deal† program was the Social Security Act, enacted by Congress in 1935. This act and established a number of social welfare programs, each designed to provide support for different segments of the population. Recently Roosevelt’s Social Welfare Program has become a topic of heated debate. Welfare has come a long way since Roosevelt, it was once a system that help those in need until they could get back on their feet, now welfare has turned into a system that feeds money to a group of people that have become to lazy to find work. Talk of replacing the old system with a welfare program that will emphasize putting welfare recipients to work has become very frequent. More and more stated are now beginning to adopt a â€Å"welfare-to-work† program, leaving other states to simply ponder about the idea of â€Å"taking people off the system.† Those in favor of welfare reform argue that a welfare-to-work program will cut the amount of people on welfare causing a surplus of funds. These people base their idea on the overwhelming success of those states who have already adopted such a program. Nationwide, welfare caseloads have declined significantly since the passage of the Per sonal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996. In the few months since the bill went into effect the amount of welfare caseloads are down by approximately 2 million. Figures also show that Alabama reduced its welfare enrollment by 48%, and Indiana, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and Tennessee reduced theirs by 49%. In Wisconsin welfare was reduced by 58% and Wyoming’s cases dropped an amazing 73% (Source: Dept.

Pearl Buck: The Bridge Builder :: essays research papers fc

Pearl Buck: The Bridge Builder Humans fear and loathe that which they do not understand. This fact has been true for ages and still exists today. Fortunately, there are people such as Pearl Buck. People like her see the injustice in this simple fact and work to break down the walls of separation between other people. She took on the seemingly impossible task of building a â€Å"bridge† across the Pacific Ocean to China from America and broke down many walls through her writings, doing a great service to many. Biographical Information Pearl Sydenstricker Buck started her eventful life as Pearl Comfort Sydenstricker in Hillsboro, Virginia on June 26, 1892. Important events took place before this that made her birth even more special than a normal birth. Theodore Harris says that Buck’s mother Carie married a man named Andrew Sydenstricker, a Presbyterian missionary in China. The couple had a daughter and raised her there. When the child was four years old, she and her mother contracted cholera. Only the mother survived (18). Buck was born two years after this tragedy while the family was on hiatus from their mission work in China. When Buck was three months old, they returned to Chinkiang, China. According to Theodore Harris, Buck spent her whole childhood there with many Chinese influences. Wang Amah, a Chinese nurse, assisted her mother. She played with Chinese children and lived in a house along the Yangtze River (30-31). These influences later played an integral role in Buck’s success as a novelist. The Encyclopedia Britannica Online says Buck’s early schooling was received in Shanghai. Later, she returned to the United States and graduated from Randolph-Macon Woman's College in the year 1914. After graduation, Buck went back to China and became a college professor in Nanking (1). According to Dr. Bette Reagan, Pearl Comfort Sydenstricker married John Lossing Buck, also a missionary in China, and became known as Pearl Sydenstricker Buck. The ceremony took place in China in 1917. During their marriage, the couple had a daughter named Carol. While delivering the baby a uterine tumor was found in Buck, forcing her to have a hysterectomy. This left her with no possibility of bearing children again. To add to the pain of this blow, Buck later noticed that their only child was mentally retarded, suffering from a disease called PKU. The family decided to return to the United States to place Carol in a care facility in Vineland, New Jersey (1).

Central University Essay

Suppose you are the network manager for Central University, a medium-size university with 13,000 students. The university has 10 separate colleges (e.g., business, arts, journalism), 3 of which are relatively large (300 faculty and staff members, 2,000 students, and 3 buildings) and 7 of which are relatively small (200 faculty and staff, 1,000 students, and 1 building). In addition, there are another 2,000 staff members who work in various administration departments (e.g., library, maintenance, finance) spread over another 10 buildings. There are 4 residence halls that house a total of 2,000 students. Suppose the university has the 128.100.xxx.xxx address range on the Internet. How would you assign the IP addresses to the various subnets? How would you control the process by which IP addresses are assigned to individual computers? You will have to make some assumptions to answer both questions, so be sure to state your assumptions. At the bottom of this response I have added a crude IP subnet scheme that will be a good start for Central University. Since the university already has a Class B IP range established, I tried to break it down as even as I could while still leaving room for future growth in every area. My first assumption is that every building has sufficient routers, switches, and network fabric to handle the traffic on this scale. I wanted to keep the faculty and staff on separate subnets for privacy and to keep frivolous student traffic off their subnets. These subnet breakdowns are not perfect by any means. I tried to use a Cisco tool to create a better breakdown, but I can’t figure out how to use it. If I were actually a paid network admin, I would have better software to accomplish this. Anyway, I would use DHCP servers to assign individual IPs to alleviate the issue of having to assign static IPs to people. This would help with the administration of constantly changing numbers of nodes and their specific locations.

Generally, there are 3 basic principles/processes of project quality management: Essay

Planning for quality involves identifying which quality standards are relevant to the project and how to fulfill those standards. Integrating quality standards into project design is a core portion of quality planning. For an IT project, quality standards include enabling system growth, planning a considerable response time, or making sure that the system produces accurate and consistent information. The core outputs of quality planning are a quality management plan, quality metrics, quality checklists, a process improvement plan, and project document updates. Performing quality assurance Performing quality assurance includes periodical evaluation of the whole project performance to make sure that the project will meet the desired quality standards. The process involves assuming roles of quality in the entire project life cycle. Senior management must take the lead in emphasizing the roles all employees play in quality assurance. The core outputs of this process are organizational process asset, project management, project document, and change requests updates (Kathy, 2008). 1. 1. 1 Performing quality control Performing quality control involves monitoring specific project results to make sure that they adhere to the desired quality requirements while identifying methods to enhance ultimate quality. This process is mostly linked to the technical techniques and tools of quality management, such as quality control charts, statistical sampling, and Pareto charts. The main outputs of quality control include quality control measurements, validated deliverables, change requests, validated changes, organizational process asset updates, project management plan, and project document updates (Kathy, 2008). This research seeks to: Incorporate the best practices in project quality management with quality leadership/ team work within a quality focused company, Evaluate the significance of project quality management for IT products and services, Understand the techniques and tools for quality control, and  Describe how leadership model relate to enhancing quality in information technology projects. 2. 0 Review of Literature In his book on quality control, Juran (2002) stressed the significance of top management commitment to continuous product quality improvement. In 2000, Juran published the fifth edition of his famous book. In both texts, Juran developed and built upon a trilogy involving quality improvement, quality control, and quality planning. Juran emphasized the difference between the manufacturer’s view of quality and the client’s view. He observed that manufacturer’s focused on adherence to requirements, but client’s focused on fitness for use. In this book, Juran developed 10 stages to quality improvement. These include; building awareness of the need and chance for improvement, set goals for improvements, organize to reach the goals, provide training, carry out projects to solve problems, report progress, give recognition, communicate results, keep ratings, and maintain momentum by establishing yearly improvement part of the regular systems and processes of the economy. Crosby (1979) wrote Quality Is Free and is best known for suggesting that firms struggle for zero defects. He stressed that the costs of low quality must include all costs of not doing the work right the first time, such as rework, scrap, wasted man hours and machine hours, customer ill will and wasted sales, and warranty costs. Crosby proposed that the cost of low quality is so misappropriated that firms can profitably spend unlimited amounts of money on enhancing quality. Like Juran, Crosby developed 14 stages for quality improvement; these include making it clear that management is committed to quality, organizing quality control teams with representatives from each section, establishing where current and potential quality problems lie, evaluating the cost of quality and explaining its use as a management tool, raising the quality awareness and personal concern of all employees, take actions to correct problems identified through previous steps, establishing a committee for the zero defects program, training supervisors to actively carry out their part of the quality improvement program, holding a-zero defects day-to allow all employees realize that there has been a change, encouraging individuals to establish improvement goals for themselves and their teams, encouraging employees to communicate to management the barriers they face in achieving their improvement goals, reorganizing and appreciating those who participate, establishing quality councils to communicate on a regular basis, and reworking to emphasize that the quality improvement program never ends. Crosby (1979) initiated the Quality Management Process Maturity Grid. Such a grid can be applied to a firm’s attitude toward product usability. For instance, the initial level in the grid is ignorance, where employees might think they do not have any difficulties with usability. The last level is wisdom, where employees have changed their attitude so that usability defect prevention is a routine part of their activities. Ishikawa (1976) developed the concept of quality circles and pioneered the utilization of cause-and-effect graphics. Ishikawa made notable contributions to quality management, the most important being Ishikawa’s total quality perspective, organization quality control and emphasizes to human based quality, the quality diagram, and the creation and use of his 7 basic quality tools. The tools are: Pareto analysis, stratification, cause and effect diagrams, check sheets, scatter charts, histograms, and process control charts. Ishikawa believed these 7 tools must be known in depth, if not by all, in a firm and used to evaluate problems and create enhancements. Used effectively the tools form a powerful quality kit. Genichi (1998) believed it is good to develop product that is stout and or insensitive to manufacturing process variation, rather than trying to control all variations during manufacturing. To practice this idea, he embarked on the already developed knowledge on design and made it more practical and usable for quality experts. Genichi’s idea was mainly about the routine maximization of process and product prior to actual processing rather than quality control through inspection. Reliability and quality are ensured at the designing stage. Genichi went on to break off-line quality into 3 core levels. These levels include; system design, tolerance design, and parameter design. Foster (2004) identified leadership as being core to the quality improvement process, assuming minimal difference between management and leadership. The role is of a facilitator, and the foundation is-managing by walking, allowing the leader to be in touch with clients, people, and innovation, the three primary sections in the expedition of excellence. Foster believes that, as the leader walks, three main operations are occurring: listening, facilitating, and listening; suggesting caring, able to provide instant help, and transmission of values respectively. Foster, having analyzed key American firms concluded that any smart concept to organizing had to take into account 7 variables, a framework that was designed to include both the software and hardware of a firm.

Moods

No doubt man is a social being and can never live a mundane custom always. Man undergoes dissimilar swings and moods in his every day life. It is true that moods are intense feelings that are directed at someone or something. Unlike a computer or any automatic tool, man gets worn out or gets weary easily. He cannot carry out any repeated action incessantly without a break. Let us take a quick tour of an instance of an exacting student who was a characteristic bookworm. He was very careful and he did studies and not anything else the whole day. Ironically, his marks never used to demonstrate the efforts he used to take. The cause for this absurdity was that he always kept poring into books with no positive mood. No doubt he never used to take even a minute gap of rest. This forced his mind to start inattention and stay put in reveries. This would obviously influence his academic and over all presentation in school activities. There is one more cause to hold up this statement. On taking a break from a usual behavior, say, studies would give a touch to the person. One would feel rather guilty for homicide the time into other behavior. This would prompt the person to study harder and go in an earlier rate with full attentiveness in his studies. Thus, still a half an hour break would save hours of time which would just be exhausted in reveries. (Thayer, 1997) Taking a diminutive period of break would give rest to the mind. The person would feel invigorated to go back to work in an improved mood. A person wearied out or in a bad swing would sense joyous and happy if he/she takes a break by doing amazing attractive or even by taking respite for a while.   Furthermore one could take a break by connecting in any sport movement or spend various times by a hobby. Going for sports could be a high-quality time-pass. This will get better one's health and obviously enrich one's mind since a sound mind forever dwells in a sound body. It would also get better a person's aptitude in sports or additional co-curricular activities like illustration, music etc. A person could get improved himself in an over-all method, not only in work but also in engage in recreation. Therefore, I powerfully believe that it is true saying moods are intense feelings that are directed at someone or something. References Thayer E. Robert, (1997), The Origin of Everyday Moods: Managing Energy, Tension, and Stress. Oxford University Press, New York.

Monopoly power is not automatically bad as long as it is regulated Essay

Monopoly power occurs when a business is a dominant seller of a good or service with a market share that exceeds 25%. There are many disadvantages for societies where monopolies exist. A higher price than those in competitive markets is one of the main disadvantages for society. As monopolies are the main seller of goods and services in the market they can use their market power in order to raise the prices well above the marginal cost and thus make supernormal profits. As their prices are set so high and people have little other choice than to pay for them this reduces the amount of consumer surplus income. Green area = supernormal profit (AR-AC) Pink area = Deadweight welfare loss (the combined loss of producer and consumer surplus) compared to a competitive market. This would be bad for the economy as people would have less disposable income than they would otherwise have had if the good/service was at a cheap price, so cannot spend as much in other aspects of the economy. Another disadvantage of monopoly is that there are fewer incentives to be efficient. If it is protected by high barriers to entry (meaning there are a few or no competitors in their market), the business may become complacent and thus operate less efficiently that it could. In this instance it is also possible for diseconomies of scale to occur. For example if the business did become complacent and chose not to bother to invest in technology to improve its efficiency it could suffer from technical diseconomies of scale as with new equipment/machinery, goods can be produced at cheaper and more effective levels. The monopoly may also choose to deliberately erect barriers of entry into the market to ensure that they do not lose market share. This is bad for small businesses in the economy as it gives them little opportunity to grow and compete with such large companies as they may purposefully decide to lower their prices so that consumers choose to go the monopoly instead of the small business. As small businesses are unable to compete with the  monopoly this would mean that there is a rise in unemployment. Increased levels of unemployment bring many negatives to the economy as the government will have to pay out more benefits meaning they have less money to spend on public and merit goods. As there would be more people out of work, they also do not have as much disposable income to spend on goods and services. As consumer spending is a key component of aggregate demand, this could reduce its levels and as a result bring down the GDP for the economy. However, monopolies aren’t necessarily bad; they can be advantageous in some aspects of the UK economy. Although they can achieve supernormal profits through having higher prices, this can then be used to invest in research and development to further their business, or protect it if it does badly. This will also lead to the creation of employment. More people employed will mean fewer benefits have to be paid out and the government can spend this money saved on improving the country. Another advantage of a monopoly is that they can achieve economies of scale (purchasing large quantities of materials for a cheaper price) as they are such a large business. Increased output (Q to Q2) will lead to a decrease in average costs of production(C to C1) and these savings can be passed on to consumers in the form of lower prices. UK firms may have to be of a larger size if they want to compete on an international basis. To become large enough to compete in the international market a business is likely to need to become a monopoly if they are to stand a chance with competing with many other firms in different countries. Providing that monopoly power is regulated so that it is not abused to exploit consumers and purposefully make it difficult for new firms to enter the market, they are not necessarily bad. After all, firms grow by satisfying customers and companies that are monopolies wouldn’t be the size they are if they didn’t have satisfied customers. They provide many jobs within the economy and lots of revenue that can be invested elsewhere in the economy as well as being able to increase the GDP of a country.

Hum/130 Final

The Hsi Lai Temple sits on 15 acres of land and has a floor area of 102,432 sq. ft. nd is located at 3456 Glenmark Drive, Hacienda Heights CA 91745. The architecture when you first drive up is mind blowing and beautiful. The architecture stays true to the traditional styles of buildings, gardens, and statuary of the ancient Chinese monasteries. They started the planning and building of the temple in 1978 and finished the building ten years later in 1988. Hsi Lai means â€Å"coming west† and signifies the dedication of the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Order to spreading the teachings of the Buddha. Fo Guang Shan is the largest monastery and covers over 370 acres. When you walk up the first set of steps you come to what they call the gate. On the top part of the sign it says Hsi Lai Temple which again means â€Å"coming west† and then on the four pillars it says the four universal vows, which are â€Å"to save all sentient beings, to eradicate all worries, to study the boundless Dharma, and to attain supreme Buddhahood. † After you walk up the steps from the lower parking lot where the gate is you walk up more steps to the upper parking lot and then from their you walk up more steps to what they call the Bodhisattva Hall. Bodhisattvas are enlightened beings that made a vow to selflessly serve others with loving-kindness and compassion and are committed to liberating all beings from suffering. It is said that each one of the bodhisattvas represents a virtuous quality essential to all Buddhists. When talking about the bodhisattvas they made a point to make sure that we understood that when we saw that people were bowing to them that they were not bowing to an idol, but rather a sign of showing respect and seeking their guidance to develop the virtuous qualities they represent. Bowing also shows our own humility and the curbing of our ego. There are five bodhisattvas are: Samantabhadra Bodhisattva which is symbolic of great practice, and helping us achieve more discipline in our daily life, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva which was known for his great vow to help all beings in hell and would not stop till hell was emptied of all beings, Maitreya Bodhisattva is the future Buddha and is the symbol of great benevolence and is often referred to as Happy Buddah, Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva which symbolizes the perfection and loving-kindness, and Manjusri Bodhisattva which is known for great wisdom which empowers one to distinguish universal morality from wrongdoing. Underneath the five bodhisattva are engraved Chinese characters from the Diamond Sutra. Next to the Heart Sutra the Diamond Sutra is the most widely read of the Mahaprajnaparamita Sutra, and is highly valued among sects in Chan Buddhism. While I was at the His Lai Temple I found that they have an information where you can go on two different types of tours of their temple: the first being a self-guided audio tour where they give you a cd player and it gives you valuable information about the temple and all its rooms and buildings as well as the gardens and information on the statues that are found throughout the temple, The second type of tour they offer is with a docent who is more than willing to answer any questions that may come up during the tour, while they inform you about everything within the temple. The two gardens I was able to see within the temple was: the first being the Arhat Garden where the eighteen arhats are seated. The Arhats have realized the truth of no-self and that all is a composite of the five aggregates dependant on other phenomena originally empty and subject to impermanence. It is said that the eighteen Arharts were able to overcome the difilements of greed, anger, and ignorance. The eighteen Arhats are: Cudapanthaka which is the door watching arhat, Jivaka which is the heart exposing arhat, Vajraputra which is the persuading arhat, Subinda which is the pagoda holding arhat, Panthaka which is the arhat with stretched arms, Kalika which is the dust cleaning arhat, Bhadra which is the arhat that crossed the river, Pindola which is the arhat with long eyebrows, Nakula which is the silently seated arhat, Ajita which is the arhat riding the deer, Maitreya which is the tiger taming arhat, Angaja which is the arhat with a sack, Vananasim which is the arhat under the banana tree, Rahula which is the arhat in deep conversation, Manakassapa which the dragon subduing arhat, Kanakabharadavaja which is the arhat holding the alms bowl, Nagasena which is the ear cleaning arhat, and Kanakavatsa which is the jolly arhat. The second garden is the Avalokitesvara Garden. Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva is seated on a giant rock with both her attendants, Shanci and Longnu who are stan ding beside her. Surrounding the pond are the four Deva Kings: Virudhaka of the Southern Kingdom which is holding the sword, Virupaksa of the Western Kingdom which is holding the dragon, Dhanada of the Northern Kingdom which is holding the umbrella, and the Dhrtarastra of the Eastern Kingdom which is holding a sitar. The four Deva Kings are revered as guardians who protect devout sentient beings from being harmed by unwholesome elements. Standing around the four Deva Kings are the four Dragon Kings of the Four Seas. The flowing water in the garden is symbolic of the Dharma water flowing everywhere to purify people’s minds. Although the Buddhist love informing people of their religion and teaching you about their beliefs. They are really not very forth coming when it comes to helping someone who is there for a school assignment. I was asked by the individual to leave his name out and was further informed that they do not normally do this kind of interview. When asked about the holidays and traditions he said the most important holiday is Wesak Day which comes in May on the day of the full moon. As for traditions he said that it all depends on the form of Buddhism tradition that you followed. When asked how has his life has been shaped by the Buddhism religion he said that it has made him a more understanding person to what he called the true nature of life. When asked what the biggest challenge is to the Buddhist religion he said that with all beliefs the biggest challenge is changing you. He has been practicing Buddhism since he was born and was taught by monks and other teachers about the Buddhist religion. When asked if there were any dietary restrictions, he did not come out and say that you had to be vegan but stated that it was more wholesome to be vegan. During our interview I found that it was real simple to become a Buddhist and that all you really have to do is follow the teachings. After that question he seemed to be in a real hurry to end the interview but I thanked him for his time and let him know that what I was able to get answered was very helpful. When it came to compairing this religion to another I chose Christianity, not because it was the easier to compare because I found them to have very obvious differences. In Christianity when you become a Christian you accept God into your heart as Lord and Savior and then are baptized as a symbol of the washing of your sins. When you become a Buddhist you just start following the teachings of the Buddha. The other difference that stood out to me was that Christians believe in a heaven and hell and Buddhist believe that hell is only in the mind. Christians believe that when you die you go to heaven to be with your Lord and Savior, Buddhist believe that when you are done with this life you are reincarnated in the next life. I found this religion to be incredibly interesting as well as beautiful. This religion is all about selflessness, which I found in this day and age to be comforting. In order to become a Buddhists you, you are told to give up all your worldly possessions. Today, everything is about worldly possessions from the cell phone that they have the designer clothes they own, to the car that they drive. When the subject of material possessions is brought up it starts making you think about what is really important in your life and how much thought you actually put into material possessions. I have found that people say that their family and friends are important, but if someone were to ask them to give up these possessions what do you think they would say? These people would tell you that you were out of your mind and then proceed to give you every excuse under the sun on why they could not do this. I believe that it takes an amazing person to be able to put someone else’s life before their own and to truly be devoted unconditionally. As I watched the monks interact with people throughout the times I was there it seemed like they were truly at peace and seemed like they had it all figured out when it came to life. When I first started the assignment I thought that it was going to be stuffy and that I would have to deal with someone who did not want to truly be in the place of having to help someone with a school paper. I found that to be completely false and actually found that not only the monks were willing to answer questions, but all the staff members were happy to answer whatever questions that anybody came up with. At the end of this assignment I found that Buddhism not only left you with such a serine feeling not only while you were in the temple but when you left it made you feel like you could accomplish anything if you just believed. They believe that the only way to truly achieve happiness is by giving up yourself and start paying more attention to others. References: An Introduction to Buddhism. (2000). Retrieved from http://webspace. ship. edu/cgboer/buddhaintro. html Religious Tolerance. (2011). Retrieved from http://www. religioustolerance. org/buddhism. htm buddhanet. (2013). Retrieved from https://ecampus. phoenix. edu/secure/aapd/cwe/citation_generator/web_01_01. asp

European Economy and Political Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

European Economy and Political - Essay Example As Howe (2006) observes, this is quite possibly because irrespective of her downfall and the rise of New Labour, on both political and economic fronts Britain is still living the consequences of Thatcherism. Among these consequences is the outcome of her confrontation with Britain's Labour Unions which effectively culminated in the demise of the latter and contributed to the downfall of the former (Howe, 2006). Whether or not the severe curtailment of the powers of the labour unions were a positive or negative development, just as whether or not Thatcher was singularly responsible for the stated, are questions worthy of exploration. In investigating these questions, the essay shall argue that while Thatcher's politico-economic policies vis--vis trade and labour unions were fundamental to the reduction of their powers, they were not singularly responsible for the stated curtailment. In addition, when analysed from within the parameters of the government's intentions and its economic v ision, there appears to be no other viable option to the reduction of union powers. Whether or not Thatcher's political and economic policies were responsible for the reduction in the powers of Britain's unions is debatable. ... 4 Homeownership rose C. Macroeconomic figures validate Thatcher's union policies. VI. The question of whether or not positive macroeconomic performance indicators allow for an objective determination of whether there were any alternatives to these policies. A. Economic problem was largely linked to strikes. B. As a consequence of continued strike, once powerful industries were virtually destroyed. C. Strikes were at the heart of inflation D. Solution lay in limiting strikes. VII. The only realistic, workable and effective way the government could reduce strikes was by passing laws and policies which imposed a regulatory legal framework upon the very practice of striking. A. Wildcat strikes were outlawed B. Illegal to call strikes without ballots. C. Power to call strikes was severely limited. VIII. Conclusion: In the final analysis, the effectiveness of Thatcher's curtailment of union power must be affirmed. A. Strikes were remarkably reduced. B. Lost workdays were regained. C. Britain was on the road to economic recovery as a direct consequence of the limitations imposed upon union powers. Few political economic trends have been as controversial as has Thatcherism and hardly any British prime ministers possess as debatable a legacy as does Margaret Thatcher. Although ousted from power by he own Conservative Party close to two decades ago, Thatcherism and Thatcher's legacy remain as divisive a subject today as they were throughput the 1980s. As Howe (2006) observes, this is quite possibly because irrespective of her downfall and the rise of New Labour, on both political and economic fronts Britain is still living the consequences of Thatcherism. Among these consequences is the outcome of her confrontation with Britain's Labour Unions which effectively

Leadership Trends Project Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Leadership Trends Project - Essay Example With due regard to power and significance of reframe, the authors have provided a set of effective learning factors that are primary aspects leading to compel organizations to reframe their managing, controlling and leading functions. In the context of structural frame, the authors have explored the key situations and causes that drive an organization to emphasize reframing decisions. Additionally, the strategy that helps organizations to reframe the increased ability of both leaders and the organizations, have also clearly illustrated in this book. Correspondingly, the authors have also provided a major emphasis regarding the pervasive role of human resource frame while an organization intends towards reframing of its strategic and operational segments. In this context, the discussion encompasses a broad area of research by considering key human resources practices in monitoring and redesigning relationship among the individuals in the organization. Additionally, empowerment is also a major consideration of the book, which have substantially portrayed about the changing roles and responsibilities of the HR personnel in organizations with an increasing focus on reframing. From a political structure perspective, the empirical and evidence based claims of Bolman and Deal (2008) have enabled to understand the impact of power, conflict, competition as well as organizational politics while intending reframing of the processes. And from a symbolic structure perspective, both the authors have illustrated the role of various organizational and environmental metaphors that have major significance on reframing leadership roles as well as strategic performance of the organization while reframing. In this regard, fostering inspiration and creating faith on the defined goals and objectives have also found to a major symbolic aspects that often garner the

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

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The Machinist Movie Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

The Machinist Movie - Essay Example It looks at the protagonist of the movie and looks into the reason why this person cannot get any sleep and is frequently attacked by severe paranoia. This is important because catharsis is natural but when people start hiding from their own emotions, sometimes they have to face severe consequences. In this movie, the protagonist, Trevor Reznik is an average male working at National Machines, a manufacturing facility that builds machine parts. One year back, he hits a little boy on the road with his car while reaching for the cigarette burner. He drives away in his car demonstrating a classic example of ‘hit and run’. Although he escapes but this incident gets to him and he is unable to get any sleep. His body does steal a few moments of sleep when he is unaware but these comforting moments last only for seconds and he wakes up again. He tries to bury the whole road accident inside his head but he remains unsuccessful. Running away from the scene of the accident was his instinctive self-defense mechanism but keeping it in him without sharing was a bigger mistake where he went against nature. The insomnia starts eating away Trevor’s peace of mind and he is never really awake as he starts hallucinating and imagining different things. He tries to lock up severe emotions inside him. He never talks to anyone about the road accident but he is unable to get rid of this memory that has stuck in his thought cycle. He reflects to a prostitute that he hasn’t slept in over a year. Moreover, he loses his body mass considerably. He starts looking sick, like a drug addict. He is unable to perform his job without getting into trouble. He is having troubles living a normal life all because the guilt is making him abnormal. But more troubles are yet to come as his hallucinations begin and he gets shocked at seeing normal things such as car cigarette burner, which reminds him of the road accident. He doesn’t get memory flashbacks when he sees the cigarette lighter but he remembers that such a piece of equipment is significant somehow. His subconscious still tries to bring out that memory but he suppresses it and this conflict represses such memories. He gets the feeling that something is there but he never gets to know what exactly it is that is bothering him. He starts seeing this big fat man, Ivan, who is also a projection of his mind and not a real human. This big fat and mean looking person is only a reflection of himself. That is how he sees himself as a repulsive fat person. This is another attempt of his subconscious mind to relive the trauma that he is hiding from. He has tried so hard to forget the accident that his conscious memory has actually forgotten it but his subconscious hasn’t forgotten it. That is why it tries to push out those feelings, visions and emotions that Trevor is running away from. He sees Ivan as if he is standing right in front of him and he nearly kills a man because of this delusion; His co-worker Miller asks him to help him with the machine, Miller starts fixing the machine while Trevor assists him, during that instant, Trevor sees Ivan and accidently hits the machine switch, turning it on, Miller loses his left arm as he is unable to free himself even after struggling. His delusional persona Ivan, makes a gesture right before this accident happens, he makes a ‘slit throat’ sign at him most probably pointing at what he had done in the past. He frequently visits the cafe

Ethics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 43

Ethics - Essay Example The movie is based on the life of individuals who spend and operate in rented offices and use their ways or illumining wealthy people into investing in their ideas and in the long-run leave they stripped of their hard earned money. These individuals will go miles to prove even to the old people living their pensions on how they can invest on the stock market only to realize that they lost everything they had saved their whole life. Normative ethics seeks to investigate the given set of questions which may come up when evaluating how and why one might opt to act to react or speak morally. It is known to be distinct from  the others like Meta ethic since it tries to understand the standards set and believed to be righteous and the wrong way of taking actions (Kimpel, 52). Seth (Ribisi) ignores this ethic when lies to his family about attending college while in real sense he has been operating a casino in his own apartment which his father disapproves staunchly disapproves. According to Seth, he is fully convinced that he is doing what is right since he makes wads of cash from single transactions which if he didn’t have, he wouldn’t be living a posh life as he does from the little upkeep funds his father gave him. In an aim to please his father who is never proud of the son he has become, he breaths the wind from the famous Long Island which is a New York stocks company which has the rumor that it can turn anyone from a zero to a hero million as long as the person can drive to work their minds off. Applied ethics is phrased as the most humbled field of philosophical ethics that seek to be boost normative theories in specific cases to help individuals in differentiating what is right from wrong(Kimpel, 48). It covers thorny factors especially those in businesses that affect the mode of transacting and how the operations flow. Throw out the film, Seth has been conducting transactions and wooing individuals which he so

My Room Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

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Women as Property and Marriage as Slavery (responses) Assignment

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Jared Diamond. the Worst Mistake in the History Essay Example for Free

Jared Diamond. the Worst Mistake in the History Essay Jared Diamond. The Worst Mistake in the History of the Human Race Jared Diamond writes about the consequences of agriculture on the human race. He suggests that the earliest farming societies did not have an easier more productive lifestyle than hunter-gatherer societies, contrary to popular belief. For example, the Kalahari Bushmen spend a mere average of 12 to 19 hours a week to getting food, and on average sleep a lot, work less hard, and have more free time than people in hunter- gatherer societies. Another consequence agriculture had on humans is their diets. Hunter-gatherers eat many various wild plants and animals; therefore, they have better nutrition than farmers who generally only eat the limited variety of crops they produce. For example, the Kalahari Bushmens daily intake was 2,140 calories and 93 grams of protein, whereas farmers gave up good nutritional crops for cheap calories found in their starchy crops. In my own opinion, I believe that Diamonds paper is for the most part skewed for the reason that he has a great anti-progressivist bias. Whenever Diamond makes a direct comparison between farming and hunter- gatherer societies, he shows all the positives for hunter-gatherer and the negatives for farmer societies. For example, when Diamond is comparing the nutrition of the two societies, he talks about the balance of nutrients and diet, he mentions that the Kalahari Bushmen eat a variety of over 75 different wild plants and receive more calories than needed. On the other hand, he mentions the fact that thousands of Irish farmers died during the potato famine during the 1840s. Another example of how Diamonds bias towards the gatherer side affects the paper is when he tries to compare the Bushmen to the Ethiopian farmers. The comparison is trying to show that being a gatherer is a better choice by comparing Kalahari Bushmen to the Ethiopian farmers. This is not an equal comparison because he uses the Kalahari Bushmen who are apparently above average on nutrition and one of the most successful Hunter-gatherer societies to one of the lower, undernourished farming societies in Ethiopia.

Analysis Of McDonalds Corporations

Analysis Of McDonalds Corporations In this report, thorough analysis of McDonalds Corporations position strategies has been design on the basis of the given contexts. Two different topics have been given to discuss in this case. The first topic focuses on the environmental factors that may affect McDonalds business. This topic has been addressed by six different factors which may broadly affect the business of McDonalds. Specific focus has been given to each factor and minute issued have been addressed in our discussion. It has been tried to give a comprehensive analysis of all the relevant ideas regarding this topic to make a reasonable discussion. The second topic given has been focused on the recent strategic stands taken by McDonalds. It has been asked to identify the pros and cons related to these strategies. The discussion has been done to create a comprehensive commentary about the pros and cons of each strategy. Every strategy has been evaluated on the basis of their individual merits. The subjects are quite sensitive and have specific implications to the business of McDonalds. in order to identify advantages and disadvantages each strategy has been clearly scrutinized. It has been tried to provide valid and reasonable remarks about these strategies. At the end, some relevant ideas have been presented to provide a more understandings of these issues. The entire report has been done with a reasonable understanding about the issues in question and all other factors relevant to the study. Introduction This study has been done to provide a reasonable understanding about business policy and strategic management development. McDonalds Corporation (NYSE: MCD) is known as the worlds largest chain of fast-food restaurants, serving approximately 47 million customers daily. Once it was the largest global restaurant chain, but it has since been exceeded by multi-brand operator Yum! Brands (KFC, Taco Bell and others) and sandwich chain Subway. Every McDonalds restaurant is run by a franchisee, an affiliate, or the corporation itself. Its revenues come from the rent, royalties and fees paid by the franchisees. It also earns form sales in company-operated restaurants. From the accounting records we can see that McDonalds revenues grew 27% over the three years ending in 2007 to $22.8 billion, and 9% growth in operating income to $3.9 billion. Generally McDonalds sells hamburgers, cheeseburgers, chicken products, French Fries, breakfast items, soft drinks, milkshakes, and desserts. Now-a-days, in order to respond to the obesity trends in western nations and in the face of criticism over the healthiness of its products, the company has modified its menu to include such healthier alternatives as salads, wraps and fruit. McDonalds began its business in 1940, with a restaurant opened by brothers Dick and Mac McDonald in San Bernardino, California. They have introduced the Speedee Service System in 1948, which established the principles of the modern fast-food restaurant. A man with a chefs hat on top of a hamburger shaped head was the original mascot of McDonalds. The name mascot was Speedee. Ronald McDonald replaced Speedee in 1967 when the company first filed a U.S. trademark on a clown shaped man having a puffed out costume legs. McDonalds opened its first restaurant in the United States, Canada, Costa Rica, Japan, the Netherlands, Germany, Australia, France, El Salvador and Sweden in order of openings. Objective of the report: This report is prepared to gain a broad idea about business strategy formulation and evaluation of these strategies. It is also done to understand the different influences the environmental factors have on the operations of a Multination Corporation. Major objectives of the report are to: Provide a conclusive idea about business environment of McDonalds Understand the impacts and implications of changing environmental factors Gain reasonable perception about strategy formulation Achieve realistic insights about strategy evaluation Attain a thorough knowledge about pointing out the pros and cons of different strategies Methodology of the Report The research methodology is the complete techniques that we will follow to conduct the research. So, we can describe the methodology in the following steps: Data Collection Present information was collected from two sources: Primary Source: Primary data of this report was collected by means of questioning of McDonalds employees and operational managers. Secondary Source As secondary source I adopt some text book on Marketing, Management and also some websites. Data Collection Method Observation: Since the report was descriptive in nature data being analyzed conceptually. Limitations: The field level survey was missing in some areas of our study due to some practical constrains. Question 1: Environmental factors impacting upon McDonalds: As a leading fast food restaurant in the world, environmental factors in different countries are crucial considerations for McDonalds. Following discussion focuses on the environmental issues of relevant to the business of the firm. General environmental factors impacting on a corporations business: If generalization is used, for a multinational corporation, following factors can be identified as major issues: Demographic Geographic Economic Socio-cultural Technological Political-legal These factors have serious implications for any Multinational company. Detailed discussions of these factors are given below: 1. Demographic environment: Demographic environment, which can be defined as the environment consisting of factors related to age, sex, gender, education level, marital status, occupation, religion, birth and death rate, average size of the family, average age of marriage etc. of a specific populace of a specific region, is the most important feature that may impact the business of the firm. As it is a Multinational corporation, the impact of demographic environment on McDonalds can be examined on regional basis. United States of America: United States is the birth place of McDonalds. Basically it is the birth pace of Fast Food culture. The people of United States of America love to enjoy their meal and the idea of fast food have been a turning point of their life style. From the demographic aspect of the region, we can point out the following issues: United States has one of the highest population growth rates among the industrialized nations. So it generally indicates the development of a large market for the corporations. 45% of the children under 5 years old belong to the minority groups of the populace. Hispanic population increased by 14%. McDonalds has been developing its menu to target this population. According to U.S. census Bureau News 2006 studies, the average income of Americans is around $46000. One of the main reasons of increase in McDonalds sales in US is the introduction of Asian Chicken Salad, which indicates importance of Minority groups in US market. Different minority groups are emerging as the economically significant groups. For example, Asians as a minority group has an average income of around $57500 which is well above the average income of Americans. So focusing business on the basis of these kinds of developments may prove fruitful in the future. Around 81% of the populace lives in urban areas where drive-through system is one of the most popular systems of getting easy meals. Europe Europeans are getting more and more interested in having quick meals from fast food shops, as their hectic lifestyles suit this mechanism. Though the sales of McDonalds dropped 14 percent, the expansionary plans of McDonalds reflects the significance of this Market. Following ideas emerged from our analysis: Demographic behavior has changed drastically in Europe. General fertility rate is below the replacement rate in many countries of the region. But a new pattern, described as a `second demographic transition have emerged, as age of first marriage and first child has changed. These changes in behaviors culminated to an increase in population growth. On average, population growth increased somewhat in the region. In European Market, McDonalds stores enjoy more customer visits and highest company-operated margin since 2001. This may be attributed to increased population and changing trends of food habits towards fast foods. Gender differences have been reduced dramatically. Economically solvent mothers are spending much to provide best quality products for their children. For this reason, McDonalds introduced R Gym to enhance children customer base. Asia pacific and Middle East: This is the region where McDonalds has the highest possibility of exponential growth due to demographic as well as socio-cultural and economic changes. Demographic factors can be specified in following manner: Countries like China and India, with high population growth rates, are considered as emerging markets for fast food industries. In order to capture the expanding markets in China and India, McDonalds has increased its outlets in both of these markets. Income of the people of this region has been increasing gradually over time, which indicates people having more spending power. Middle Eastern regions are considered as one of the wealthiest regions of the planet. Population growth is also relatively high in this region compared to the industrialized countries. Migration trend towards urban areas is a major factor to consider for Corporations like McDonalds. Latin America Although regarded as one of the poorest regions of the world, this market has been changing its economic and socio-cultural patterns to become one of the lucrative markets. According to 2005 statistics the population of South and Central America is 588 million. The population growth is about 0.6%. This is quite significant information as it indicates a big market for fast food industry. Due to the low income and economic inequality, Latin American market is still not a big revenue source for McDonalds. Different ethnic groups with diverse cultures are prominent features of this region. Economic inequality is dominant in this region. According to World Bank reports, approximately 25% people live less than $2 a day. Huge amount of people live in rural areas, or under developed areas in the cities. Migration rate to the cities is increasing day by day. The following diagram depicts the importance of each regional segment for McDonalds based on sales revenues. Source: http://internationaltrade.suite101.com/article.cfm/mcdonalds_global_sales [Visited on 23/12/2009] Figure 1: McDonalds regional sales revenue. 2. Geographic Environment: Geographic factors that may affect the business of McDonalds can be pointed out in the following discussion: The distribution points of McDonalds are vital considerations as it is involved in a business which requires easy accessibility for the customers. So locations of the distribution centers should be close to populated areas. Some of the McDonalds stores are connected to gas station or convenient stores to target the shoppers. McExpress are shops having limited seating arrangements, located in shopping malls. In its mission statement, McDonalds vowed to provide services in the best possible means. This requires quick and correct service. So, warehouses for the raw materials should be located in the strategic places for easy transfer. Geographic segmentation is very important for McDonalds. As fast food culture is mainly the trend in cities and urban areas, the strategic establishment of distribution points are needed. McDonalds have locations in Disney Theme parks and Ocean Park. This strategy helps to increase sales promotion and expand customer base among the visitors of the theme parks. Competition is anther driving issue for McDonalds to choose the locations of its business carefully. McDonalds may choose a location where it will get a strategic advantage. To have a competitive advantage it introduced locations in Wal-Mart stores. To target trackers and travelers, McDonalds has developed McShop, which may have services found at truck stops. 3. Economic Factors: Many economic factors may affect the operations of McDonalds. These economic factors are identified in the following discussion: The economic cycle of different countries may affect the revenue generation of McDonalds. But as the business seems well diversified, the effects may be nullified to a negligible extent. In 2006, McDonalds global sales rose 5.8% from the previous year. Sales margin improved in all geographic locations. McDonalds has a large amount of long term debt of about $8 billion. So, changes in interest rates or tax policies of the government may affect favorably or adversely. The exchange value of dollar against other currencies may affect the profitability of McDonalds. As it is operating in different regions, so it may consider the exchange rates differentiations of different currencies. There may be some possibilities that inflation rate may adversely affect the business of McDonalds. Increase in inflation rate may cause the price of raw materials to rise. This may also drive the customers away from the restaurants. Income level of the general people varies with the economic condition of the nation. So, in the times of recession, economic conditions may adversely affect the purchasing power of people, thus affecting the business of McDonalds. McDonalds operating earnings, earnings per share and overall revenue increased 15%, 17% and 10% respectively. It also announced dividend at the rate of $1 in year 2002 per share. This indicates 276% increase of dividend payout from the period of 2002. These numbers reflect economically a strong position for McDonalds. 4. Socio-cultural Factors: Every corporation should analyze the important socio-cultural factors relevant to their business. Such relevant factor regarding socio-cultural environment of McDonalds are discussed below. The healthy lifestyle trend has become a global phenomenon in recent days. McDonalds must consider this to maintain a competitive position in the market. McDonalds Healthy Lifestyle programs attracted health conscious people. It has become worlds first fast food service restaurant to provide nutritional information on majority of its food packaging. As women are becoming more independent and families are becoming smaller and smaller, fast foods are growing in their popularity. Eating home cooked meals are becoming a luxury in the fast paced unban lifestyles. So, restaurants are gaining momentum in their businesses. McDonalds operated in different regions of the world. In order to maintain its profitability it must keep track of regional cultural and sociological changes. For example, increased migratory trends towards cities in developing nations can be an advantageous sign for McDonalds. McDonalds needs to be aware of local trends in different regions. For instance, by presenting French Fries as vegetarian food, McDonalds had to pay a hefty price as fines in 2002. McDonalds has introduced R Gyms, a form of interactive game zones, designed for children aged 4 to 11. To emphasize on physical activity, they are equipped with stationary bicycles attached to video games, dance pads, basketball hoops, monkey bars, an obstacle course, and other games. It has introduced a new slogan to its recruitment posters: Not bad for a McJob, to encourage employees to be related with McDonalds. McDonalds jobs have been regarded as of low pay, just above the legal provision, required little skill and little job security. It has been trying to improve the conditions 5. Technological Factors: To maintain a competitive edge against the rival companies, McDonalds must be aware of the recent technologies and innovations. New and improved technologies can reduce the man power needed in processing the food thus reducing the labor related costs. New innovations can help McDonalds to create more environment friendly operating systems which will help them to reduce their carbon footprint in the world. To tackle environmental issues, McDonalds has incorporated technology into its business. McDonalds has started using corn-based bio-plastic to produce containers for some of their products. Innovative technologies can also help to reduce the levels of processing and contamination due to human interactions with the food processing functions. It may also help to reduce energy consumption thus reducing the actual cost of serving the customers. In Europe, it has started recycling vegetable grease to use it as fuel for its trucks. In 2000, it has opened a restaurant in Sweden which was the first to intentionally incorporate green ideas. 6. Political- Legal Factors: Political structure of a nation and the ideology of political parties need to be carefully assessed to run business on that states. Confiscation, domestication, tax control, exchange control, interfere of government on business operations are common in global business. Following factors may be taken into considerations about the political and legal factors: Stable political situations are always important incase of operating businesses in different regions of the world. Government policies, tax policies, regional cooperation policies etc. may affect the operations of McDonalds. Law regarding the business operations, legal suits and other legal obligations may influence the business of McDonalds. McDonalds has been involved with number of legal cases, mostly concerning with trademark. Some social cases like, The McDonalds Coffee Case in 1994, hampered the public image of McDonalds. Question2: Evaluation of current strategies in use: McDonalds has been taken some specific steps to enhance the profitability of the corporation. From the perspective of its performance and future potentiality evaluation, these strategies can be critically examined. The strategies chosen by McDonalds are assessed in the following discussion: SWOT strategies: McDonalds has chosen these strategies based on their SWOT analysis. These strategies may have some advantages and disadvantages. SO strategies: These strategies are taken in line with the strength of McDonalds and on the basis of the opportunities the firm has within its arena of operations. The firm has chosen the following strategies: 1. Expanding into Chinese market: McDonalds is thinking of expanding its Chinese market via increased advertising and numbers of outlets. This strategy can have some merits for McDonalds operations. Advantages: Chinese market is a growing market for McDonalds. The population of China is increasing rapidly and the demand for fast food is also growing at a good pace. By developing a good market in China may prove valuable for McDonalds as it has a potential for good return in future. Drive-through system is gaining popularity in china as number of car owners are increasing. This is a very good indication for McDonalds to provide this kind of services in increased number of locations. McDonalds has a brand name which is globally recognized. McDonalds can use this position of its brand name for its advantage. In China, it would be much easier for McDonalds to advertise as it has an easily recognizable brand name. In order to increase the market share, McDonalds must increase its advertising in China. It has to compete against already established quick service providers like Yum Brands. Increased advertising will enable it to capture new markets in China as well as enhance brand exposure. Increased numbers of the restaurant locations in China will provide easy accessibility to the customers. As the number of consumers is increasing the number of locations must be increased in order to meet the current demand. This strategy may pose some disadvantages for McDonalds. Disadvantages: Increased number of advertisements means increased costs. This means less revenue will be off settled by increased operating cost. As McDonalds operates its business on the basis of franchising, increased number of locations may mean lesser amount of control over its operations. In its mission statement it states to be the best quick service provider. Increased number of locations may cause McDonalds to hire employees who are not competent enough to provide good services. It may also force McDonalds to increase training costs. Quality control may not easily be done if numbers of restaurant locations are increased. Although this strategy may have some potential demerits, this strategy is a very good step for McDonalds. Chinese market is becoming the fastest growing market and McDonalds need to enhance its market share in China in order to ensure its sustainability as one of the leading quick service provider in the world. 2. Acquiring Krispy Kreme Corporation McDonalds has taken a strategic choice to integrate horizontally by taking over Krispy Kreme Corporation, which is at the verge of going bankrupt. This strategic decision may have some good implications for McDonalds. Advantages: By expanding horizontally it will be able to outreach more customers with more ease. As Krispy Kreme Corporation is at the verge of bankruptcy, it will be easier of McDonalds to acquire this company without substantial financial implications. Krispy Kreme Corporation may willing be merged with McDonalds without showing any hostility towards the acquiring company. McDonalds should be able to use the existing infrastructure of the Krispy Kreme Corporation in order to conduct its business. Loyal customers of the Krispy Kreme Corporation may still be with this company after the acquisition. This way McDonalds may be able to acquire a new customer base. Acquiring Krispy Kreme Corporation will put McDonalds in a competitively advantageous position. This will mean less competition for McDonalds and infrastructure and customer base development. This strategy may have some potential disadvantages as follows: Disadvantages: There is a chance that Krispy Kreme Corporation may not be willing to merge with McDonalds. This may force it to take strategies against the acquisition. If acquisition happens in this situation, then McDonalds will be in a disadvantageous position. The customer base of the Krispy Kreme Corporation may not support this acquisition. This may drive them away and reduce the benefits of this acquisition. There is a potential of dilution of control and profit of the shareholder in case of this acquisition. For this reason McDonalds may change the top management of Krispy Kreme Corporation. This may affect the whole operations of Krispy Kreme as new management may have a different style of running the business. By comparing the disadvantage with the advantages, we can easily say that the disadvantageous situations may occur in highly probabilistic circumstances, which make those less potent. So this strategy may prove profitable for McDonalds. WO Strategies: These strategies are taken on the basis of the analysis of the weaknesses and existing opportunities of McDonalds. The firm has chosen the following strategy: 1. Menu development: McDonalds has chosen to develop its menu based on healthy lifestyle trends. It is also thinking of introducing Hispanic food lines. This strategy may have following advantages: Advantages: Providing healthy foods may increase the customer base of McDonalds as there is a global trend of shifting to this kinds of foods now-a-days. Increased Hispanic population forced McDonalds to focus on this group. By creating Hispanic food line, McDonalds may be able to capture a more diverse and wide customer base. There is a bad name of fast food of being unhealthy. By providing more healthy food, McDonalds may be able to change this perception which may be a competitive advantage for McDonalds. There may have some disadvantages of this strategy. Disadvantages: This strategy may cost McDonalds more as it requires more investment from McDonalds part. The new product lines for Hispanic population may not be successful or needs more time to be successful. Focusing on Hispanic population may be frowned upon as being a racially motivated strategy. In order to capture the market and be in line with the global trend, McDonalds need this strategy to be implemented. ST Strategies: McDonalds Corporation also has some strategies based on its strength and potential threat analysis. These strategies are discussed below. 1. Increase number of restaurants located in theme parks: McDonalds is thinking of forward integrating by increasing the number of locations in the theme parks of Disney and Ocean Park. This strategy may have some pros and cons which have been identified in the following discussion: Advantages: By increasing the number of locations in the theme parks McDonalds can capture more of the customer base by providing more services. Mutual understanding between theme parks managements and MacDonalds may increase the brand exposure of McDonalds. By expanding the operations to the theme parks it can appeal to the children which may eventually lead to brand loyalty. Disadvantages: This strategy may increase the operational cost of McDonalds. Quality control may not be an easy proposition. More advertising may be needed in order to make all the locations popular. This strategy may be profitable for McDonalds in the long run and it may be recommended to be pursued by McDonalds. 2. Increase advertising of coffee line: McDonalds is trying to increase advertising of the coffee line in key markets like China and North America. This strategy may have some advantages for McDonalds. Advantages: By developing a market penetration strategy, McDonalds can increase coffee sales, which is one of the weak links of its operations. By increasing the advertising, it can acquire more customers in the morning time when the demand of coffee is highest. McDonalds can create an image of best quick service coffee provider by increasing the frequency of advertisements and providing customers with quality services. Disadvantages: It will increase the sales cost of McDonalds and reduce the profit. Increased advertising may prove fruitful if it can provide good services. But id it fails to live up to the mark then rival companies can take advantage of the situation. Increased advertisement for coffee line may prove fruitful for McDonalds as it has beaten its traditional rivals in coffee taste test according to consumer report. So this strategy is quite a good stand for McDonalds. WT Strategies: McDonalds has been thinking of taking some strategies based on its weaknesses and threats analysis in order to enhance its operational efficiency. Following discussion has been done to point out those strategies and some relevant issues about those strategies. 1. Develop the menu to keep up with the competition: McDonalds one of the main concern is lack of menu development. In order to appeal to the Asian and Latin American markets, it is thinking about menu development. Advantages: Creative menu development will appeal to growing markets like Asian and Latin American markets, which will increase its customer base. It may reduce the operational inefficiency and create more customer satisfaction Customer retention may increase as more options of food items are included in the menu. It will increase its profitability in the long run and create stronger customer base. It will help to capture the potentially profitable markets of Asia and Latina America. The underserved niche of the industry may be capture if creative menu developments occur. Disadvantages: Cost of product development and market survey may increase, which will reduce the profit of the company. New products may fail to appeal to the targeted customer segment, which will result in operational loss. New product development may need new kinds of technologies or raw materials, which will increase capital expenditures of McDonalds. This strategy may increase the profitability of McDonalds as new customers are induced to buy its products. It will also increase the customer base and customer retention rate. 2. Redesign the website to make it more users friendly: Making the website more users friendly is another ploy of McDonalds to increase its efficiency. The advantages and disadvantages of this strategy is discussed below. Advantages: Redesigning the website will increase the knowledge of the customers about McDonalds and its products. Internet is one of the best possible ways to advertise the products of any corporation. Revamping the website may increase its potential customer base by providing them with best possible information. Creating a user friendly website may increase the customer satisfaction. Disadvantages: This strategy may reduce the profit of the organization for the time being, but this may increase capital expenditure of the company. Creating a user friendly website requires expert handling of information. If it is not done efficiently, then it will prove worthless for the Company. The strategy of improving its website can be a fruitful ploy for McDonalds if it is done efficiently. 3. Increasing sales promotion and advertising: Increasing the amount of sales promotion and advertising in key markets to increase consumer awareness of the products is an important strategy for McDonalds. The pros and cons of this strategy are discussed below. Advantages: This will increase the consumer awareness of the products and services of McDonalds. This may also increase the number of customers of the company. This may help McDonalds to capture customers from its rivals if it is done efficiently and effectively. This will also help to gain a competitive advantage in key markets. Disadvantages: Increased cost for McDonalds will offset the profits. Increasing advertising and sales promotion is the best possible way for McDonalds to increase its customer base. Recommendation Following recommendations can be