Chinese Popular Culture Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Chinese Popular Culture - Essay Example e styles of Chinese people are entirely different from that of the other parts of the world, mainly because of political reasons rather than cultural reasons. Chinese people do not have the freedom to express their views and opinions freely. They forced to adapt a culture or living style which is digestible to the communist administration. Chinese media is under the control of Chinese communist administration and independent functioning of media is impossible in China. Another cultural aspect of China is the spreading of martial arts. In fact many of the current popular martial arts like Kung Fu, Tai Chi etc were originated in China. This paper analyses Chinese popular culture in general and media and martial arts specifically to know more about the Chinese popular culture and its effects on people. Morton & Lewis (2004) in their book, China: Its History and Culture, have pointed out that â€Å"Buddhism is wide spread in China with somewhere between 70 and 100 million followers. Buddhist and Daoist philosophy advocates deep breathing and slow motion martial arts activities in order to improve health† (Morton & Lewis, p.278). Buddhism and Daoism are two of the prominent religions in China. There are many similarities in the beliefs and practices of Daoism and Buddhism in China. Both the religions stress the importance of practicing martial arts and deep breathing for maintaining physical and mental health of the people. Moreover, ancient Chinese administrators and military also asked the people to practice these things in order to prepare a strong military force. â€Å"One can trace a history of military support for sports and martial arts back to the early imperial period peaking in the Tang dynasty†(Morton & Lewis, p.267). According to Kennedy and Guo (2010), â€Å"up until about 1900, Chinese martial arts training were conducted either in the military by active duty soldiers or villagers† (Kennedy and Guo, p.1). In order to win sports events and also to win

Complicated Attitudes Towards Female Characters Essay Example for Free

Complicated Attitudes Towards Female Characters Essay I agree with this statement, as the female characters are revealed to the reader as being powerful over men, seductive, suspicious, mysterious, bewitching and in the end, cause destruction. However, in the poems, males claim some possessiveness over the females. For example; in the poem La Belle Dame Sans Merci a beautiful woman tempts men/ knights with her faery beauty. The knight in the poem, falls in love with her through her seductive actions, but then she abandons him. I met a lady in the meads, Full beautiful a faerys child This quote shows how mysterious the female is by describing her as a faerys child which basically means a mystical fairy in human form, who is playful and has magical powers. In La Belle Dame Sans Merci the reader only gets one interpretation of the female through the knights direct speech, this reflects a complicated attitude to the reader as we have a biased opinion of the female. Also, not having direct speech from La Belle adds to the mysterious-ness of female characters in Keats poetry. A male contrast in this poem is quite important, as in many of Keats poetry. The knight claims possession over the female. He creates garlands and bracelets for which could be used to enclose and trap her. I made a garland for her head, And bracelets too, and fragrant zone I set her on my pacing steed These quote shows his possessiveness over the beautiful woman. In the same way, The Eve Of St Agnes portrays these attitudes towards females. The narrator focuses on a virgin named Madeline, describing her as pure, nieve, vague and blinded by superstition. This gives the reader the impression of her being easily led and expressing her as being quite innocent. In the poem Madeline is at a party and is oblivious to everything going on around her, she is only thinking of the legend St Agnes. St Agnes Eve is believed by virgins that on this night they will see their future husbands in the dreams. The poet describing Madeline as one of these believers, shows the theme of suspicion and witchcraft, as Madeline will perform the rites associated with St Agnes. Keats uses negative capability to contrast innocence with flirtatious, this happens when Madeline goes up to her bedchamber to undress for bed. Of all its wreathed pearls her hair she frees; Unclasps her warmed jewels one by one; Loosens her fragrant boddice; by degrees Her rich attire creeps rustling to her knees: Describing the way she undresses makes her seem like shes doing a striptease. A male in the poem named Porphyro, affects the readers attitude towards Madeline, as he comes across as being the seductive one. As Madeline undresses he watches as hes hiding in her closet. This could portray to the reader about the attitudes towards women, that Madeline purposely stipped like that, because she was thinking about and wishing to tease Porphyro. But as a coincidence, he was there watching every move, showing the powerfullness of women over men. Also, the quote: Sudden a thought came like a full blown rose flushing his brow, and in his pained heart Keatss could be referring to how cunning Porphyro might be, as he was told by the old belle dame that its St Agnes Eve and Madeline had gone up to her bedchamber to dream of her future lover, giving him a seductive idea. To conclude, Keats uses many different met hods, to have an impact on the reader about complicated attitudes towards females in his poetry. Using sympathy as a weapon for the males in his poetry. However, more indepth reading shows that there may be contrasts between men and women and that their roles can be switched over.

Business Plan To Open A Retail Store Outlet Marketing Essay

Business Plan To Open A Retail Store Outlet Marketing Essay Bihar is a state in eastern India. It is the 12th largest state in terms of geographical size at 38,202 sq  mi (99,200  km ²) and 3rd largest by population. But close to 85 percent of the population lives in villages. Almost 58 percent of Bihar is are below the age of 25, which is the highest proportion in India. Bihar lies mid-way between the humid West Bengal in the east and the sub humid Uttar Pradesh in the west which provides it with a transitional position in respect of climate, economy and culture. It is bounded by the country of Nepal to the north and by Jharkhand to the south. The Bihar plain is divided into two parts by the river Gangs which flows through the middle from west to east. Bihar has notified forest area of 6,764.14  km which is 7.1 percent of its geographical area. Hindi and Urdu are the official languages of the state, whilst the majority of the people speak one of the BiharI languages Angika, Bhojpuri, Magadhi or Maithili. Ancient Bihar (which consisted of Anga (East Bihar), Videha (North Bihar), Magadha (South Bihar) and Vaishali (North Bihar)) was a center of power, learning and culture in ancient and classical India. From Magadha arose Indias first greatest empire, the Maurya Empire as well as one of the worlds most widely adhered-to religions, Buddhism. Magadha empires, notably under the Maurya and Gupta dynasties, unified large parts of South Asia under a central rule. Its capital Patna, earlier known as Pataliputra, was an important center of Indian civilization. Nalanda was a centre of learning established by the 5th century CE in Bihar. Today, Bihar lags behind the other Indian states in human and economic development terms, Economists and social scientists claim that this is a direct result of the skewed policies of the central government, such as the freight equalisation policy, its apathy towards Bihar, lack of Bihari sub-nationalism (resulting in no spokesperson for the state), and the Permanent Settlement of 1793 by the British East India Company. The current state government has however made significant strides in improving. Geography of Bihar Bihar is mainly a vast stretch of very fertile flat land. It is drained by the Ganges River, including northern tributaries Gandak and Koshi originating in the Nepal Himalayas and the Bagmati originating in the Kathmandu Valley that regularly flood parts of the Bihar plains. The total area covered by the state of Bihar is 94,163  km ². the state is located between 21 °-58-10 N ~ 27 °-31-15 N latitude and between 82 °-19-50 E ~ 88 °-17-40 E longitude. Its average elevation above sea level is 173  feet (53  m). The Bihar plain is divided into two unequal halves by the river Ganga which flows through the middle from west to east. Other Ganges tributaries are the Son, Budhi Gandak, Chandan, Orhani and Falgu. The Himalayas begin at foothills a short distance inside Nepal but influence Bihars landforms, climate, hydrology and culture. Central parts of Bihar have some small hills, for example the Rajgir hills. The Himalayan Mountains are to the north of Bihar, in Nepal. To t he south is the Chota Nagpur plateau, which was part of Bihar until 2000 but now is part of a separate state called Jharkhand. Bihar has notified forest area of 6,764.14  km ², which is 7.1 percent of its geographical area. Facts of Bihar Area: 38,202 sq km Population: 20645880. State code: 020 Independence: 15th August 1947 Republic day: 26th Jan 1950 INDIAN ECONOMY OVERVIEW India`s diverse economy encompasses traditional village farming, modern agriculture, handicrafts, a wide range of modern industries, and a multitude of services. Services are the major source of economic growth, accounting for half of India`s output with less than one quarter of its labor force. About three-fifths of the work-force is in agriculture, leading the UPA government to articulate an economic reform program that includes developing basic infrastructure to improve the lives of the rural poor and boost economic performance. Government controls on foreign trade and investment have been reduced in some areas, but high tariffs (averaging 20% on non-agricultural items in 2009) and limits on foreign direct investment are still in place. The government in 2009 liberalized investment in the civil aviation, telecom, and construction sectors. Privatization of government-owned industries essentially came to a halt in 2009, and continues to generate political debate; continued social, p olitical, and economic rigidities hold back needed initiatives. The economy has posted an average growth rate of more than 7% in the decade since 1994, reducing poverty by about 10 percentage points. India achieved 7.6% GDP growth in 2009, significantly expanding manufacturing. India is capitalizing on its large numbers of well-educated people skilled in the English language to become a major exporter of software services and software workers. Despite strong growth, the World Bank and others worry about the combined state and federal budget deficit, running at approximately 9% of GDP; government borrowing has kept interest rates high. Economic deregulation would help attract additional foreign capital and lower interest rates. The huge and growing population is the fundamental social, economic, and environmental problem. INTRODUCTION TO RETAILING OF BIHAR Bihar Retail is the largest Retail Market in India in terms of population and social economic outline and Bihar s progressively rising excellence of life, a thriving wealth and customer marketplace creates it one of the newest targets for Retail section. Many big retailers first launched shops in the Indian capital. . The increasing insists for real estate by the retail brands, Retail Industry is position to develop by jump and bounce by 2010. North Bihar, South Bihar and Patna submarkets qualified maximum amount of forthcoming supply. About 19.7 million spaces are below special stages of completion. Patna and Patna submarket contains the maximum bring of beneath building stock, which will give about 5.6 million sq. ft. Organized Retail Space by the end of next year. Approximately 1.1 million sq. ft. of organized retail space has been rented this section, which is 33% higher to history section combination. Patna and Patna spectator Demand for prearranged retail space has greater than before mostly due to expansion of regional and national level retailing giants. Bihar Retail has one of the best in retail activity in the country. Taking the benefit of lack of Retail Space in Bihar, Most private builders are coming up with fresh Retail Projects in the area of south and North Bihar. In the middle of the Bihar submarkets, North and West Bihar have both proof about 10% raise, as other Bihar submarkets are fairly steady. INTRODUCTION TO MY RETAIL STORE (CONVENIENCE STORE) IN BIHAR I am going to open a convenience store in DISTRICT CENTRE near HERO HONDA show room in PATNA (BIHAR). The name of my store is SHAMAYA-FRESH. My store will sell fresh fruits and vegetables, staples, groceries, fresh juice bars and dairy products, FMCG, home, customer durable, food, with food accounting for the bulk of business. CONVENIENCE STORE: Convenience store provides a limited variety of assortments of merchandise at a convenient location in 2000-3000square/foot stores with speedy checkout. They are the modern version of the neighborhood mom and pop grocery general store.Convienence stores enable customers to make purchase quickly without having to search through a large store and wait in long checkout line .over half the items brought are consume within 30 minutes of purchase. Due to their small size and high sales convenient stores typically received delivery every day. They offer limited assortments and variety. Milk, eggs and bread once represented the majority of the sales, but now almost all convenience stores sell gasoline, which accounts for over 66% of annual sales. The second highest selling item is cigarettes, accounting for 14% of the sale.Convienence store operators also are tailoring their merchandise assortments to cater to the need of the local market. RETAIL ENVIRONMENT OF BIHAR BIHAR has been the attractive market in India for the consecutive year, although its appeal is starting to decline, according to a survey by management consulting company AT Kearney. A combination of increased consumption and an under-developed organized retail environment has made BIHAR an attractive destination for global retailer. However, BIHARs attractiveness has dropped from 100 to 92, on a scale of 100, this year. This is because new players have entered the market and the window of opportunity will get smaller over time. There is still significant opportunity, but the new players will have to deal with more competition, shrinking margins and more expensive real market. ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENT OF BIHAR Bihar is Indias prosperous state with a per capita income of Rs. 11,650. The state has best infrastructural facilities available in the country. Major industries are manufacture of Sports Goods, Radio TV Parts, Plastic PVC Goods, Textiles, Chemicals, Fertilizers, Soft Drinks, Hand Machine tools, Leather Goods, Galvanizing Electroplating, and Printing etc. PricewaterhouseCoopers estimates suggest that the Bihar retail sector is worth USD350 billion and is growing at over 20 percent per annum. Bihar, as compared to other states, has been relatively insulated from the global economic slowdown. This is apparent when looking at Bihars consumer confidence levels, its GDP projections for the new fiscal year, investor confidence in response to recent election results, etc. While the retail sector will benefit from positive macroeconomic and microeconomic factors, it should be noted that retailers are not resting on their laurels. Four strategies that retailers are using in this environment to increase growth and generate efficiencies are: Improving operational effectiveness: Retail Consumer companies are focused on optimizing operations, streamlining the movement of goods and increasing efficiencies. Supply Chain-Efficient sourcing practices, managing inventory turns and overall supply chain management is important measures to improve profitability. The ability to measure and manage supply chain risks is essential to the success of retail operations. Renegotiating rental rates-Retail rental rates have declined in most major urban cities by 20 to 40 per cent. As a result, several India-based retailers have embarked upon discussions to renegotiate rental agreements. Focusing on rural India-Increasing rates of industrialization, coupled with the Governments decision to waive farm loan repayments, make rural India increasingly attractive. Companies looking to enter rural India are customizing marketing messages, packaging sizes and price points to suit rural consumers. While there are challenges associated with serving rural India (such as inadequate distribution networks, misconceptions about rural Indian consumers, etc.), companies remain bullish on growth potential. Launching private labels-Indian Retail Consumer companies are increasingly launching private labels in a range of categories to appeal to value-conscious consumers. While private label products may have a no frills approach in their packaging and marketing, they aim to satisfy Indian consumers value preferences. Indias retailers view private labels as a robust value proposition and are also witnessing double-digit growth rates in the sales of these products.    Rationalizing prices offering sales/promotions-Indian apparel retailers, for example, have been reducing prices on their merchandise in order to meet consumers expectations for better-priced products and to encourage volume-based sales. Other retailers are extending sales and other attractive promotional offers to move stock, increase footfalls and drive revenue. Sales, a main characteristic in retail in western markets, are increasingly being used in India since value-conscious consumers are demanding sales and prefer to wait for promotions before buying apparel, footwear, etc.    CUSTOMER SERVICES PROVIDED BY MY CONVENIENCE STORE (SHAMAYA-FRESH) Acceptability of credit cards. Child care facility. Credit. Delivery to home. Dressing room. Extended store hours. Facilities for shoppers with special needs (physically handicapped). Parking. Special order. Each and every customer is very important to us. So according to their need and requirement me provide them better services, so that we can make good brand image of our store (SHAMAYA-fresh). BUSINESS PLAN TO OPEN A RETAIL STORE OUTLET INTRODUCTION: My store is opened in 3000 sq/ft. located at very convenient place. According to the taste and preference of my consumers we are providing them fresh products. For the store we need different materials such as: furniture, computers, printers, swapping machine, internet etc. MISSION: To build a just and sustainable, locally oriented food system for my consumers in Bihar by providing them fresh products. VISSION: To become a branded retail store in the world. OBJECTIVES: -Raising, preparing and eating a great variety of fresh, local and healthful food is one of the regions common values. -No one needs to go beyond the region for a healthful diet.   -Food consumption is possible within walking distance of its production.   -From an early age we learn experientially where and how our food is raised.   -Regional food production ranges from a few large farms to many small farms to numerous public and private gardens to potted vegetables plants in downtown city apartments.   -Food processing centers focus on local production and distribution in order to supply institutions, restaurant and grocery stores.   -Our connections to food beyond the region, while minimal, provide security in the event of food emergency, as well as opportunity to trade for foods impractical to produce regionally.   MARKETING PLAN A marketing plan is very important while opening a retail store. By seeing the following needs we had made our plan they are: -The target market- the segment towards which the retailer plans to focus its resources and retail mix. -The format which we will use to satisfy the target markets needs (nature of Merchandise and services offered, pricing policy, advertising and promotion program, Approach to store design and visual merchandising, typical location). -The bases on which we will build a sustainable competitive advantage. The competition Which is not easily copied and thus can be maintained over a long period of time. ADVERTISEMENT: Through advertisement we will be able to attract more and more consumers towards us. We can adopt sales promotion for our retail store. We will target at our ultimate consumer. Will make use of a variety of formats: premiums, coupons, contests, etc, will attract attention, will offer strong purchase incentives, and will dramatize offers, will boost sagging sales, will stimulate quick response, Short-lived. Not effective at building long-term brand preferences. PRODUCT MANAGEMENT PLAN OF MY RETAIL STORE OUTLET As our younger generation is very diet conscious so taking in consideration to this point we have thought to open a convenient retail store in DISTRICT CENTRE. It is youth meeting place with lots of crowd. The products which will be available at my store are: FRESH MILK FRESH JUICE STAPLES GROCERIES DAILY PRODUCTS HOME PRODUCTS FMCG PRODUCTS FRESH FRUITS VEGETABLES CONSUMER DURABLE PRODUCTS According to the demand of our products we will increase our product line in market. OPERATIONAL PLAN OF MY RETAIL STORE OUTLET LOCATION OF MY CONVENIENCE STORE (SHAMAYA-FRESH): Three most important things in retailing are LOCAION, LOCATION, and LOCATION only. The location which I have chosen for my store is DISTRICT CENTRE where we see huge crowd every day. We will be able to attract more and customers. We are providing fresh products to our consumers to their suitable location. Each and every thing is easily available in that locality. LAYOUT: Best method of encouraging customer exploration is to present them with a layout that facilities a specific traffic pattern. Another method of helping customer move through the store is to provide interesting design elements. KEY SUPPLIERS: we have contacts the local vendors of that area to that we can easily provide the products to our consumers. Vendors approach is the best way of supply chain efficiency in which the vendors is responsible for maintaining the retailers inventory levels in each of the store. My consumers will get fresh products on their demand at any time on demand. STORE MANAGEMENT: store management is very important in every store. The responsibility of store managers are: managing employees, controlling costs, managing presentation, and providing customer service. Managing store employees: -Recruiting and selection. -Socializing and training. -Motivating Controlling costs: -Increasing labour productivity. -Reducing maintenance and energy costs. -Reducing inventory losses MERCHANDISING MANAGEMENT: According to merchandising management we will forecast our sales and develop assortment plans indicated in very general terms. We generally use staple merchandise items are continuously sold over a year. If there is greater the fluctuation in demand, the more backup stock is needed. FINANCIAL PLAN PROJECTED BALANCE SHEET Liabilities 1st year 2nd year Assets 1st year 2nd year Capital Fixed assets: Owners capital 1,75,000 1,75,000 Furniture 20,000 20,000 Liabilities Computer 25,010 20,000 Bank loan 3,75,000 3,50,000 Website development 25,000 28,000 Net profit 192990 587968 Current assets : Creditors 323287 Inventory 12,000 55,000 Prepaid courier exp 47,000 1,00,000 Prepaid Rent 53,000 60,000 Cash in hand bank 5,30,000 11,53,256 Deferred expenses 30,980 Total liabilities 7,42,990 14,36,256 Total assets 7,42,990 14,36,256 Total liability for 1st year: 7, 42,990 Total liability for 2nd year: 14, 36,256 Total assets for 1st year: 7, 42,990 Total assets for 2nd year: 14, 36,256 Financial plan is an integrated part of a retail market strategy. We have planned how we will invest our money in opening of our retail store. We have taken loan from HDFC bank at 8% interest. Sales growth will be aggressive the first 18 months as we sharpen our merchandise assortment, size scales, and stock levels to better meet our customers requirements. We anticipate a sales increase of 45% during our second year of operation. Marketing will continue to average 9% of total sales. We will invest residual profits into reducing debt and the lost income from large cash holdings. Our store expansion, while not a necessity, will be an option if sales projections are met and/or exceeded.

Cuban Relations Essay -- Essays Papers

Cuban Relations In the year 1959 a politician named Fidel Castro led a revolution against the Cuban government under Fulgencio Batista. Castro used his influence to persuade the Cuban people to fight for him in the revolution against Batista’s government. With the people on his side, Castro successfully overthrew the Cuban government and was eventually elected President. These people believed in Castro, and that he would make Cuba a better place to live and work in. Once Fidel Castro had control, he named himself dictator for life and made Cuba a socialist nation who openly embraced communism. Cuba became the only communist nation in the Eastern Hemisphere. As a result of this new socialist regime many Cubans fled to the United States into south Florida, which is only a mere ninety miles from Cuba. Shortly after Castro took control of the government, relations with the United States declined. Capitalist leaders, like the United States wanted to make sure that socialist countries trying to establish a communist system, such as Cuba would fail because the goal of communists is to develop a system free from private ownership, which is not in the best interests of the countries who are wealthy due to private ownership i.e. the United States of America. Under The Kennedy administration, America attempted to dethrone Castro from power in Cuba many times, including the Bay of Pigs invasion in 1961. While these attempts to get rid of Castro failed, in 1962 American President John F. Kennedy signed the Cuban Embargo to stop all imports, exports, and diplomatic relations between the United States and Cuba. The signing of this embargo was basically the beginning of the end for diplomatic relations between the United States of... ...the sanctions which have suffocated the Cuban economy in the past four decades. Until Castro wishes to comply with the government of the United States, the embargo will stand and Cuba’s economy will hurt because of it. Works Cited 1. U.S. Rejects Ending Trade Embargo on Cuba. Website. . 2. Senators who vote in order of Ending the Embargo. Website. 3. The Cuban Economy. Website. < www.pitt.edu/~press/books/cubaneconomy.html.> 4. Faces of Cuba. Website. 5. Fidel Castro:History Archive. Website. 6. U.S. Department of State. Website. < www.state.gov/www/regions/wha/cuba/.>

Confessions of an Economic Hitman

Confessions of an Economic Hit man John Perkins The reasons as to why I selected this book was heavily weighted on my personal interests. The fact that I am interested in matters of economics, imperialism, capitalism and deception and corruption on a government level, made reviewing Confessions of an economic hit man an enjoyable experience. â€Å"For them, this is a war about the survival of their children and cultures, while for us it is about power, money and natural resources. It is one part of the struggle for world domination and the dream of a few greedy men, global empire. † (prologue) If confessions of an economic Hit man had to be summarised in a sentence, the quotation above should give you the reader briefly; a general inquest into some of the main topics of discussion in the book. The author (John Perkins) describes in great depth the conflicts of interests between the developed and the developing world whilst integrating his life journey as part of a riveting and gripping novel. The book begins in the 1960’s and the author gives a personal account of his life, family and education threw till 1971, the year in which John Perkins became an â€Å"Economic Hit man†. Confessions of an economic Hit man tells a tale of how John Perkins amongst others exploited oil exporting countries such as Ecuador, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Venezuela and Indonesia but to name a few names, in order for them to become indebted to the United States of America. John Perkins goes into grave detail in explaining how America has become probably the most powerful political and economic force in the world. The elements of genius and deception mixed with the strategic approaches of the so called economic hit men (â€Å"EHM’s†) gives an insight as to how these oil rich countries become indebted to the powerhouses of America such as the large engineering corporations, banks, CEO’s and politicians. In order to explain how EHMs go about their work, the author has chosen to make references to the Mafia, through these references it can be understood just how these strategies where implemented in to helping the American economy grow according to the views, expressions and experiences of John Perkins. Like our counterparts in the mafia EHMs provide favors. These take the forms of loans to develop infrastrucure – electric generating plants, highways, ports airports or industrial parks. † (prolouge) EHMs pronounce the idea of taking out large loans to the leaders of some of the countries named previously. The main intention of providing countries these inflated l oans, is in the end for these countries to default on the loan payments and in turn to be indebted to the USA. An important part of the process was making sure the infrastructure that was to be built, was built by American engineering firms such as MAIN, which John Perkins initially worked for. This factor was important as a large sum of the loan was instantly injected back in to the American economy via the engineering firms. If the EHMs are completely successful and the default on the loan payments occurs (which it inevitably will) then as the author puts it so well â€Å"when this happens, then like the mafia we demand our pound of flesh† (prologue). As a result America often try to command some of the following; control over United Nations votes, the installation of military bases, or access to resources such as oil. Thus a country has been added to the â€Å"global empire†. The author tries to diagnose what is wrong with the strategic decisions being made by the American government, himself and other economic hit men in the past by showing the consequences the strategic decisions have. Not only on the ones who reap the benefits from these decisions but of those who are affected negatively. An example of this is how the indigenous people of Ecuador were affected by the oil companies invading the very environments in which those people live and the destruction of cultures, habitats, wildlife and the people of Ecuador who lived in such areas. To give another example as to what is wrong with the strategic decisions made in the past in regards to the protagonist, the Mafia reference can be referred to once again. Mafia bosses often start out as street thugs. But over time, the ones who make it to the top transform their appearance. They take to wearing impeccably tailored suits and owning legitimate businesses. † â€Å"They are quick to lend money to those in desperate straits† They appear to be model citizens. However beneath this patina is a trail of blood† (page 139) Using the mafia analogy it is clear to diagnose what is wrong with the strategic decisions that have been made in the past and are still being made now in regards to, how governments and EHMs leave behind trails of blood just as Mafia bosses can in order to carry out their business. But the â€Å"model citizens† who are in disguise such as EHMs are seen in a completely different light in that to crime lords. Many strategies have been devised by empires over centuries, these strategies and decisions have helped shape the world as it is in its present state. The author explains how strategic decisions made in the past were the wrong decisions in his opinion, as John Perkins had seen first hand the devastation that could be caused by the American government in its pursuit for a â€Å"global empire†. An example of this is how in the 1960’s, a key strategy was being implemented by the world governments. This was the switch from neoclassical economics to Keynesian economics. In America this switch happened under the reigns of presidents Kennedy and Johnson. The switch to Keynesian economics meant that the government would play a major role in managing markets and in regards to welfare: health, unemployment, compensation and other forms of welfare. This now meant that government intervention was at an all time high. The author explains how a one Robert McNamara who at the time was the secretary of defense and then went on to become the president of the World Bank, had the single most important influence on the switch to Keynesian economics. â€Å"McNamara became a strong advocate of a Keynesian approach to government, using mathematical models and statistical approaches to determine troop levels, allocation of funds, and other strategies. His advocacy of â€Å"aggressive leadership† became a hallmark not only of government managers but also of corporate executives. It formed the basis of a new philosophical approach to teaching management at the nation’s top business schools, and it ultimately led to a new breed of CEOs who would spearhead the rush to global empire. (page 79) The author goes on to stress the importance of such an event and how the decisions which lead up to Robert McNamara becoming the president of the most powerful bank in the world. The strategic decision of developing and switching to Keynesian economics which lead to the World Bank becoming an agent in the â€Å"global empire† was described by the author as â€Å"Robert McNamara’s greatest and most sinister contribution to history†. page 79) Another key Strategic decision made in 1975 this time by John Perkins was one which shaped global economics at the time. It was that of an innovative approach to economic forecasting originally formed by a Russian mathematician. This was the Markhov method of economic modeling. The strategic decision made by the protagonist in this case John Perkins was one that would affect entire societies. Of course as explained before a EHMs role was to land large loans upon the shoulders of countries which would not be capable to afford the repayment of these loans. It was exactly what we wanted a tool that scientifically â€Å"proved† we were doing countries a favour by helping them incur debts they would never be able to pay off. In addition, only a highly skilled econometrician with lots of time and money would possibly comprehend the intricacies of markhov or question its conclusions†. (page 102) Together with the help of a Dr Nadipuram Prasad, John Perkins presented Markhov as a revolutionary method for forecasting investment on infrastructure. Now backed with â€Å"facts† and figures, EHMs such as John Perkins became very successful at what they did. This shows what was fundamentally wrong with USA at the time as the implementation of such devious strategy was used to exploit countries who had lesser knowledge economically and who were desperate to have a high flying economy like that of the US and also emulate some of the US infrastructure, such as shopping malls and airports. The author tries to make it fundamentally clear that the strategic decisions made by himself and the American government were wrong in every sense of the imagination. The author paints men such as George Bush, George Shultz and Robert McNamara with the same brush. He believes under their regimes people like himself were pawns in a game in which such men wanted the result to be: â€Å":an america that controlled the world and all its resources, a world that answered to the commands of that america, a U. S military that would enforce rules as they were written by america, and an international trade and banking system that supported america as CEO of the global empire. † (page 155) Through the experiences of the protagonist and the guilt that was felt through such a personal journey John Perkins makes his confessions clear but also tries to lead the reader into new strategic directions and influence society along the way. John Perkins essentially admits to feeling regret for some of his actions but through his writings he tried to correct some of his past mistakes as he aims to educate a new generation on some of the corruption which shapes all of our futures. â€Å"Most importantly this story must be told because today, for the first time in history, one nation has the ability, the money and the power t change all this. It is the nation where I was born and the one I served as an EHM: the United States of America† (page 219) An example of this is how John Perkins makes references and implications as to how the most powerful firms in the world have at their disposal, quite essentially the power and money to change global problems such as starvation and common diseases. â€Å"the big corporations, banks and government bureaucracies – that threaten the republic could be used instead to institute fundamental changes in the world. Such institutions possess the communications networks and transportation systems necessary to end disease, starvation, and even wars – if they could only be convinced to take that course. † page 128) To this example, John Perkins mentions it on numerous occasions but this quotation would best sum up how John Perkins tries to influence the reader on reviewing new strategic directions. John Perkins does not only attempt to influence entire societies or countries as shown with the previous examples but he also attempts to interact with the reader. In the epilogue John Perkins interacts with the reader and attempts to influence the reader in implementing new strategies in their lives in an attempt to make a difference on some of the issues discussed in this book review. An example of this is where John Perkins states â€Å"so the burden falls on to you to see the truth beneath the veneer and to expose it. Speak to your family and friends; spread the word. † (page 221). In regard to this John Perkins attempts to influence people’s day to day lives, from â€Å"downsizing† homes, wardrobes cars and to even consider meditation instead of shopping. He then goes on to mention household brand names such as Nike, McDonalds and Coca Cola in a clear attempt to influence the reader that these organizations have the ability to make their primary goals to clothe and feed the world’s poorest. John Perkins almost pushes the idea of equality on the reader as he uses his strong beliefs to try and make the reader consider new strategic directions as strategy after all is not just something that is implemented on a business level but something that can be implemented in one’s life. My opinion of this novel is that I have found it to be enthralling and the argument the protagonist makes is a very convincing and detailed one. It is clear to see that the feelings of the protagonist are extremely strong. So, however strong his argument, one must consider that the story is that of one man’s opinion and in all probability, possibly biased. The main argument the protagonist makes is that of one that takes me back to the very first quotation I had used from the book, that of â€Å"greedy men, and global empire† and how it is shaping the world and how essentially things must change. An example of why the story of John Perkins could be found so convincing is an example of today’s current economic climate. The greed of the some of the world’s largest banks has lead to a recession in which very few may have predicted. This recession has of course caused many of us to struggle. I believe steps could have been taken to stop this if such high levels of deception were not amongst the CEO’s and corporate leaders of some of the world’s leading financial institutions. As I do find the protagonists story and argument convincing I do not agree with it, as in a time of extreme capitalism and globalization many of us are powerless to stop events described in the novel and a current example of today’s recession from happening. Overall the book was a more than an interesting read and possibly an eye opener to many who do not have knowledge or understanding of some of the views expressed in the book. So I would not hesitate to recommend this to anyone who takes similar interest into economics, imperialism and government corruption as I have. Word Count: 2028

The Status of Women in Ancient Times

The Status Of Women In Ancient Times Throughout the years, women have had to fight for the right to gain independence and freedom. They have been through good times and bad, but through all of it women have won respect and responsibility for themselves. In the times of Ancient Egypt, women had many more rights than other places. Inheritance and property were important to them. The status of women in Mesopotamia was as simple as a contract, and men were their priority. The Napoleonic Code and the Sharia Law were degrading and difficult.It is important that we reflect on what women have been through to learn for the future. In Ancient Egypt, women were mainly important for reproduction. Children were very important, and infertile women were divorced immediately. Marriage was a very important aspect, as it was almost considered a duty of the Egyptian people. It was also popular to marry cousins, brothers, and sisters considering family and dynasties were very important. If one was to be divorced it was a very private matter, but if they wanted, women could get divorced for any reason.The men were also free to marry as many women as they liked. Women could inherit their husbands belonging and property. They could give it to anyone or keep it, and many of the husband’s rules were written in his will. Women had a lot of rights in Ancient Egypt and that is very close to what we are today. In Mesopotamia, the rights for women were very different. The status of women in their marriage relied completely on a contract. The women were forced to stay with their husbands until he wanted to leave her, and there was nothing she could do if she was unhappy in the relationship.Once the husband divorced, they could not re-marry. Men dominated in every aspect, even the children. For women to have any inheritance or property it had to be in a written document. Some of the things women could do in Mesopotamian times were that they were able to buy and sell in the market place , and they could attend all legal matters. They could also conduct business on their property. The only reason why this was important though was because the men were lazy and wanted the women to work for them.The Napoleonic Code was a code in ancient times which also contained rules for women. The main aspect was that as long as men took care of the wives and protected them, the women had to have full obedience to their husbands. They had to ask to do anything and everything. There was no such thing as more than one marriage, because the only way a woman could divorce her husband was if they had grave or a severe injury. If the women committed adultery they would have three months in jail and a divorce, where as if the men committed adultery there was no punishment.The men were so powerful that if they were ever unhappy with their sons, they could get them arrested. The men had full use of the wife’s inheritance and property if she gave his approval, and it was very rare that she didn’t. Also, if anyone else wanted their inheritance, they would have to sue the owner of the inheritance. The husband managed the dowry completely, but had to give the wife one thing per year for maintenance or personal need. The only right the wife had was that she could make her will without the consent and authority of her husband.Lastly, the Sharia Law was unfair to women as well. The major inequality that is noticeable is that the Muslim men could marry non-Muslim women, but Muslim women could not marry non-Muslim men. Also the men could divorce their wives but he had to pay an already agreed sum of money that was established before the marriage. Women could onluy divorce men if they were infertile, insane, had leprosy or some other skin desease. The men had full power over the children, yet the mother could only have power over them if they were too young to part from their mothers.The worst part of the Sharia Law was that the men were given right under the Quran to hit their wives. The only right the women had were rights to inheritance, and the right to make a will. Researching all about the status of women in ancient times makes me so grateful to live the way we do today. Women should not be treated like objects or property. For a man to be able to hit a woman is so shocking to me. I believe that we should learn from our past world and know that we should not repeat some of the aspects of the law in ancient times again.

HOW TOOLS TRANSFORMED PROTOHUMANS essays

HOW TOOLS TRANSFORMED PROTOHUMANS essays According to archeological and physical record, tool use has had an enormous effect in the transformation of proto humans into modern humans. What stimulated tool use was the proto humans intrest in new and easier ways to do things. With the introduction of tools, body morphology changed and reproductive fitness increased. Evolution did not happened over night. It took 4.5 million years for humans to get where they are today. Scientists have concluded that about 3.5 million years ago, there was the first proto human. A proto human resembles extinct hominid populations that had some but not all the features of a modern homo sapien. Such features were prolonged moments of bipedality, change in the pelvis and the reduction of the sagittal crest. (Diamond 1992 pg 34) In order for this proto human to evolve into a human, it needed tools. Some of the tools might have been discovered by accident or by early creative geniuses? The way they discovered the tools is unknown, but the changes the tools made were to the physical morphology and the body behavior. They began to walk upright, gathered supplies, cut food, and used weapons.(Diamond 1992 pg. 40) About 3 million years ago, after generations of learning how to use these tools, the hominid came out of the trees, and stayed mostly on the ground. The animal had an abundance of food and water and lived in a population of; on the ground proto-human animals. Some adapted to ground life and started to become bipedal, but more than half of them stayed on all fours. The bipedal hominids vision increased, making it able to see and do more. It obtained the ability to use weapons more effectively and efficiently because it had arms with agility. It found all the good meat and valued resources then eventually took over the whole community. Soon after the bipedal creatures gained control t ...